Vadnais Heights Press

Time to honor first responders for heroism, bravery and valor

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

One of the darkest days for the city of White Bear Lake and the White Bear Lake Police Department has a happy ending.

White Bear Lake Police Chief Julie Swanson and city officials recognized four police officers, seven firefighters and EMS staff for their heroic efforts in an officer-involved shooting earlier this year.

Officer Ryan Sheak was critically injured when he was shot several times by a suspect on Jan. 24 while trying to serve an arrest warrant in an apartment in the 3100 block of Karth Road.

Swanson said the suspect was well known to the officers and when officers arrived, the suspect was uncooperative and shut him-

self in the bedroom and refused to come out.

“The officers on the scene spent a great deal of time talking and negotiating with the subject to attempt to get them to come out of the room,” Swanson said. “This is not uncommon for any interaction that we've had with him, and officer Ryan Sheak, a SWAT negotiator, has great experience with that and had a great rapport with the subject.”

The suspect continued to yell at the officers and after several minutes he suddenly came out of the room and fired gun shots at the officers. Sheak was struck by the gunfire, and officers fired back as the they retreated from the apartment.

“There was quite a bit of chaos, SEE HONOREES, PAGE 7

You can’t take the mechanic out of the man

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

Most days, White Bear Lake’s former mayor can be found in his happy place: peering under the hood of a car and listening to the musical sound of an impact driver.

Paul Auger is in his element at Knutsen Auto Service, his new hangout now that Auger’s Garage is closed. The business started in 1919 by his grandfather, Henry Louis Auger, on the corner of Fourth Street and Bald Eagle Avenue “sailed into the sunset” a year ago.

It was time, Auger said. He was 69 after all, and his scary bout with a paralyzing illness in 2017 left him debilitated. Auger never regained use of his left hand, and although he can walk short distances

with the use of special braces on his lower legs, he is more comfortable in an electric wheelchair.

Contracting Guillain-Barre Syndrome six years ago was life-changing for Auger, the city’s mayor from 1995 to 2010. He spent months in the hospital, his entire body paralyzed.

It started with tingling in his foot. Within 24 hours, Auger was in intensive care hooked up to a mechanical ventilator to breathe. Every muscle in his body became immobile as white blood cells attacked the myelin sheath around his nerves, disrupting the electrical impulses to the brain and spinal cord. Even his eyes were stuck open, because he couldn’t blink.

"It's not something I want to remember, but to have

something that tries to kill you but doesn't, and you recover to almost 100%, it's like divine intervention," he’d shared in an earlier interview. “It was like living in a twilight zone, but I didn’t die. Although I thought Father (Ralph) Talbot (the priest at St. Mary of the Lake) was administering last rites one day in my hospital room. I woke up after a vivid dream to see him looking in my eyes and putting something on my forehead. I tried to ‘will’ him my thoughts, to tell him, ‘I’m still here.’ We laughed about it later. He said he was giving me a blessing.”

The experience with the mysterious condition has given Auger a positive outlook on life, he said. He won’t chance driving again due to a disconnect between his feet and brain, but Auger is OK

with that. “After all the years I spent driving people around, I’m perfectly happy to sit in the passenger seat,” he said.

Of course, he does drive an electric wheelchair around

town on daily excursions. As the self-proclaimed “boulevard superintendent,” the former mayor tools around

SEE PAUL AUGER, PAGE 9

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

A humorous sign is among the items Paul Auger brought over to Knutson Auto Service, his new hangout now that Auger’s Garage is closed.

Get a taste of Italy with Romina

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

Romina Montanari believes in the art of bringing people together with food. She started her own business, Italy with Romina, to teach people how to cook fresh pasta the Italian way.

“I developed this idea to keep the tradition alive from Italy and at the same time teach people the value of getting together, making food together, sitting down at the table and eating together,” Montanari said. “It is a very important value that is getting lost, I think, through the generations. Everybody eats in front of the TV or everybody's in a hurry. Nobody wants to spend time preparing a “from scratch” dinner, but I think it's really important.”

Montanari, of White Bear Lake, grew up in Modena in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy. She said it is widely considered the culinary capital of Italy and the food valley of the world. It is also the sister city of St. Paul.

As a teenager, she met with a dietician to create a healthier diet and started to learn about food. “I have always been passionate about food and learned about Italian cuisine in the kitchen with my mother and aunts,” she said.

She moved to Minnesota when she met her husband, Tom, in San Francisco. She is a professional cook, ServSafe food certified and an Italian Wine Scholar Guild member.

She teaches fresh pasta cooking classes, leads regional dishes workshops and organizes Italian food and wine events for the Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/St. Paul. “Making fresh pasta and teaching other people how to do it has been my passion

for the last 10 years,” Montanari said.

She describes each Italy with Romina session as a lively hands-on pastamaking class that helps people learn about the different aspects of regional Italy and gives people all the tools they need to make fresh pasta at home.

“I decide which pasta to make based on which region they would like to focus on,” Montanari said. “I put together a menu for them including the appetizers, the salad, wine and dessert. We're celebrating that region.”

First, Montanari teaches dough techniques — rolling, cutting and folding pasta. She shares her own experiences making pasta over the years. Then people roll their dough and start making pasta.

Based on the regional pasta theme chosen, people have an array of tools and ingredients to use. And along the way, Montanari talks about the region chosen as the theme including the history, culture and some interesting anecdotes.

Once everyone’s pasta is rolled, pressed and cut, it’s time to relax.

Montanari said guests can put their feet

up and congratulate each other on their good work, while she handles the final stages of preparation. She'll make the sauce that complements the particular pasta chosen.

“Then they can gather around the table and enjoy their meal together,” Montanari said. “That is the most authentic Italian tradition of all.”

Montanari will be hosting an informational meeting for the 2024 Boutique Food and Wine Tour in Piedmont-Langhe from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, at the Boatworks Commons community room. She coordinates food and wine tours in Italy, where visitors can learn about the authentic tastes of the region through vineyard visits and cooking classes. Participants will also get to visit local landmarks and small farms.

“I'm more Italian in America than I was Italian in Italy, because what

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you have as an Italian here is a gift and when you're in Italy it's taken for granted,” Montanari said.

Besides cooking from scratch, she enjoys biking, yoga and stand-up paddleboarding.

“I'm just a very natural person and I really believe in food as a medicine and it's very important to me,” she said. “Growing up in Italy, my mother showed me how food was important, because she always went to buy fresh produce and fresh meat directly from the farmer. She brought me to all these farmers in the mountain and we'd go get the eggs, the meat and the fresh salad. Every time I got sick, she always asked me, 'What did you eat?' It's something really embedded in me.”

To learn more, go to www. italywithromina.com/.

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BUSINESS SPONSORS

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PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

(From left) Felicia Engen, Jenny Ogden, Romina Montanari, Rachel Bonin, Stacey King and Beth Lindberg at an Italy with Romina pasta party at Bonin’s home.

Romina Montanari whipping up something Italian in the kitchen.

We Do the Heavy Lifting for You!

Household Waste • Construction Debris • Appliances• Furniture

We remove items professionally and efficiently, for the best possible value!

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

Details: Kids in grades 3-6 can drop-in to participate in hands-on, interactive programs about local history.

Contact: 651-407-5327 or whitebearhistory.org

MUSIC IN THE TREES

When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19 and Sunday, Aug. 20

Where: Where: Belwin Conservancy, 1553 Stagecoach Trail S., Afton

Vadnais Heights Heritage Days

When: Aug. 17-20

Where: Community Park and Vadnais Heights Commons

Details: Annual community festival includes medallion hunt, pickball tournament, kickball tournament, bean bag tournament, fun run, car show, Lions pig roast, kids activities, vendor market, inlatables, grande parade, live music and fireworks.

FREE PRODUCE MARKET

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Aug. 17

Where: Community of Grace Church, 4000 Linden St., White Bear Lake

Details: All are welcome to pick up free produce. Bring your own bag. Contact: 651-407-5310 or whitebearfoodshelf.org

‘INTO NATURE’ COMMUNITY RECEPTION AND AWARD CEREMONY

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.

Details: View work from the Into Nature Plein Air Competition on display and hear from this year's judge Joshua Cunningham.

Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 18

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake

Details: Tim Jollymore will sign copies of his book, 'The Nothing That is Not There” and his other books.

Contact: 651-426-0918

SUMMER FRIDAY

When: Noon-3:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 18

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.

Details: Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and a lunch, play lawn games, check out artwork, and enjoy live music. Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org

FRIDAY WITH FIREFIGHTERS

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Aug. 18

Where: White Bear Lake South Fire Station, 2240 County Road E

Details: Family event for all ages includes fun and safety education with firefighters. Contact: citywhitebearlake.org

‘WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME’

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 18 and Saturday, Aug. 19; 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20; 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Groundbreaking play is a testament wo how the country's founding document shapes our lives today. Content advisory applies. Minnesota ACLU chapter will deliver pre-show talk before Sept. 17 show. See ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD PROGRAM

When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 19

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

HISTORY LAB AT THE HISTORIC TOWN HALL

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19

Where: Historic White Bear Town Hall, 1280 Hammond Rd., White Bear Township

Details: Diverse group of instrumentalists and vocalists perform in the red pine restoration. Contact: belwin.org

MUSICAL FIELD GUIDE TO MINNESOTA WILDFLOWERS

When: 11 a.m.-noon Saturday, Aug. 19

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.

Details: Enjoy the lively sounds of woodwinds in a free performance of “A Musical Field Guide to Minnesota Wildflowers” by local composer Jonathan Posthuma.

Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org

MUSIC ON THE LAWN

When: 4-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20

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

Details: The Super Duos perform a tribute to rock's greatest duos. Open to the public. Contact: 651-429-9026 or wblumc.org

THE AVENUE TRIO

When: 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20

Where: Lakewood Worship Center, 2080 Woodlynn Ave., Maplewood

Details: Concert performance by Southern Gospel group from Nashville. Free; doors open at 5:30 p.m. Contact: 651-779-9177

LUNCH AND TABLE GAMES

When: Noon Wednesday, Aug. 23

Where: Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights

Details: Bring a bag lunch and play table games with friends. Coffee provided. Contact: 651-204-6000 or cityvadnaisheights.com/ seniors

CRUISIN’ ON THE CROIX HOT ROD & VINTAGE CAR

SHOW

When: 4-9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23

Where: Lowell Park, downtown Stillwater

Details: Admire vintage and hot rod cars, food vendors, live music, free family-friendly festivities. Contact: cruisinonthecroix.com

PINE TREE Apple Orchard Register Now Fall Classes Begin September 5, 2023 Since 1950 Keep dancing the Larkin way

We are looking to connect with classmates. If you graduated in 1993 or your child/sibling did, please contact Scan here for class schedules 1400 East Highway 36, Maplewood www.larkindancestudio.com. | 651-770-0764 781099

Voted Studio of the Year at Nationals!

CONTRIBUTED It’s been 30 years WBL Class of 1993!! 782462

Friendly reminders

Angle of View

Paul Dols

Occasionally, when I’m on assignment or just out and about, someone will approach me and ask if I remember taking a specific photo. Although I’ve had thousands of photos published over the years, with just a bit of help and context I can almost always piece together a memory and recall details about the time and place a photo was taken. Earlier this summer, while waiting for the start of the Manitou Days Parade, I felt a gentle nudge on my shoulder. One of the members of a group setting up to watch the parade wanted to let me know that her granddaughter Bella was a recent high school graduate and would be using some of the photos I’d taken over the years for a display at her graduation party. While it was a little sobering to think that girl I first remember photographing at a pet parade in costume with her sister and pet dog (also in costume) was graduating from high school, I was moved and pleased to find out that photos that I had taken of her and other extended family members over the years were part of a scrapbook of memories. I was also informed that their cousin Vinny recently made an appearance in the pages of the White Bear Press with his winning Manitou Days button design.

It’s not easy to quantify, but even with all of competition from social media, I find it encouraging that people are still finding a unique connection to the local newspaper.

Merrina, one of our summer interns here at the Press, shared that she made an appearance in the paper when she was a kid. She described one of those rare winter days on the lake (prized by iceboat enthusiasts and skaters) when the ice is essentially a huge skating rink. While accompanying their father on an ice fishing outing, she and her siblings were photographed skating out on the ice near the VFW. Supplied with an approximate year and month I was able to locate the photo (taken about 12 years ago) in our archives. What I found was a fun feature photo showing the siblings spaced evenly out on the ice in different poses and each wearing an unusual hat. Merrina said that she loved the bomber hat with flaps she wearing that day and kept it until it was in tatters.

There have been a number of other portrait and feature photos that have received positive feedback from family members over the years. Some of them were even award winning.

On a more serious note, I’m sincerely honored when families choose to use photos that I’ve taken of their loved ones for obituaries or celebration of life programs as a lasting legacy.

Part of my own family history includes photos that have been published in the local newspaper. Many years ago, when our family lived near the intersection of Summit and Lexington in St. Paul, a feature photo of my younger brother was published in the Pioneer Press. He was photographed scooting around the neighborhood on his tricycle with his beloved stuffed animal “tiger” hanging from the handlebars. If I remember correctly, the stuffed tiger was almost as big as my brother and the photographer used the advertising slogan “Put a tiger in your tank,” that was popular at the time in the headline. More recently, my brother was featured in local and regional news outlets, along with fellow volunteers with the Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad — an excursion train that offers scenic rides along the St. Louis River estuary south of Duluth. He’s an engineer and conductor for the LS&M, which recently resumed operations after a three year hiatus. It was fun to find a photograph of him in front of a locomotive as part of a Duluth News Tribune story detailing the challenges the volunteers faced keeping the railroad running. Find out more about the Lake Superior Mississippi Railroad at lsmrr.org.

Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press

Talking kindergarten anxiety with U of M

Summer is winding down and for many new kindergartners and their parents first-time school anxiety may be starting to set in. Parents might wonder if their kid will make new friends, like their teacher or learn to read.

Movers and Shakers

Annie Hansen-Burke, Ph.D., a senior lecturer in the College of Education and Human Development, addresses questions many parents have about helping their kids get through that critical first year of school.

Q: What are some of the most common concerns you hear from parents of new kindergarteners?

A: Dr. Hansen-Burke: For many parents, this is the first time they’re sending their children into the hands of another caregiver, so the question of whether they can trust the school to care for their kindergartener is a big one. In other cases, there’s the worry of whether their child is ready for the full day of academic work and how they will adjust to a new setting.

Q: How should parents prepare themselves for the transition to having a school-age child?

A: Dr. Hansen-Burke: First, it’s important to acknowledge that this is a normative transition that families go through. As a parent of recent kindergarten graduates, I can testify to the fact that this milestone can be emotional

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

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Carter C. Johnson ...............................Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson .....................Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com

and requires some adjustment. Planning for the logistics of the school year can help to settle parents’ nerves. Once you know how your child will get to and from school, set up any before and after school care they may need. Learning about school calendars and supplies may make you feel more comfortable with the transition. Also, keep in mind that parents are important models for children. Communicating that school is a positive, important part of your child’s life will help to ease your child’s transition and connection to school as well. It can be reassuring to remember that — although you may only go through this transition once or a few times — your child’s teacher has likely navigated the kindergarten transition many times and knows how to support their new students.

Q: How can parents prepare their kids to have a smooth first day?

A: Dr. Hansen-Burke: It will help kids to know what to expect. If you are able to attend a meetthe-teacher night, your child will have a chance to see their new classroom and meet classmates for the first time. Visiting the school will help to make it a familiar and comfortable place for both of you. Going over the routine with your child can also help. This may take the form of talking with your child about how they’ll get to school, when you will reunite with them at the end of the day and what kinds of things they’ll learn about.

Summertime pushes back bedtime and disrupts our routines, so re-establishing earlier bedtimes

and daily routines a week or so before school can help your child (and you!) get into the routine of the school year. A publication by the National Association of School Psychologists on this topic also recommends clearing extra commitments from your schedule during the first week, so that you have the time and energy to support your child’s transitions

Q: How can parents support kindergarteners throughout their first year of school?

A: Dr. Hansen-Burke: Parents can support their kindergarteners by continuing to talk about school and learning at home, reinforcing that school is a positive part of their child’s life. In addition, maintaining stable routines — such as a family dinner — can help smooth out the bumps that transition may introduce to your family life. You may look for opportunities to be involved in your child’s learning, but keep in mind that parent involvement can take many forms. You may have the time to volunteer in the classroom or join a committee, but that is not the only way to stay connected. You can also be involved by talking about what they learned at school, reading aloud with them and asking questions about their day. If you have concerns about your child’s adjustment or progress, remember that there are professionals at school who can help. This includes your child’s teacher, school psychologists, school counselors and school social workers.

Annie Hansen-Burke, Ph.D.

LETTER GUIDELINES FOR ELECTION SEASON 2023

• Letters for or against a candidate will qualify as paid letters.

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

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

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

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

published as space permits.

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

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

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

• Letters reprinted as part of letter-writing campaigns are paid letters.

• All letters are subject to editing.

• 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. 7 election will be printed in the Oct. 25 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.18.

• To submit a letter, email news@ presspubs.com, fax it to 651429-1242 or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

departments obits@presspubs.com classified@presspubs.com callaspecialist@presspubs.com

Annie Hansen-Burke

Nice park, but messy

We recently took our four grandkids to Ramsey County Beach on beautiful White Bear Lake on a very hot day. The lake was so inviting, but to get to it we had to navigate a mine field of goose droppings all over the sand beach. It was disgusting and disappointing.

Ramsey County has fairly new playground equipment at the beach, maintains fairly clean restrooms and grounds, but leaves this nasty health hazard to literally pile up on the beach; the place in which to access the water. It’s likely an ongoing problem, but should not be ignored.

There were also piles of lake weeds that had washed up on the beach. I would hope that county resources will be used to periodically clean up and maintain the sand beach. I would also like to see lifeguards at work again at Ramsey County Beach, although I realize filling jobs anywhere is challenging now days.

Jackie Colaizy Hugo

Rebuttal to letter

The letters to the editor of late on life matters have been interesting. For Ms. DiCesare, I have two questions.

If only fully formed human beings matter and thus anything not fully formed is inconsequential and disposable, are infants disposable since they are still growing and not at their finished form? What about disabled infants?

My other question regards Ms. DiCesare’s statement: “Being forced to make a serious life decision against one’s will is a truly negative outcome for all involved.”

What about decisions in which women are coerced into sexual activity to appease men — boy “friends” — who are using them; many women arrive at abortion clinics saying they don’t want to abort but the boy “friend” insists on it or he will abandon her.

If you are for choice in life decisions, where is the choice in that situation before or after sexual activity with such a “friend”? If you are for choice, why was the requirement that abortion providers tell women about abortion alternatives struck out of Minnesota law? Where is the choice in this so that a serious life decision can be made? It seems more like entering an abortion provider’s space is a one-way street with only one choice at the end.

By the way, you don’t know me. I could be fully COVID boosted and masked while strolling along Lake Avenue; I could belong to one of the religions you cited that do not view abortion as morally wrong; I could be driving a Tesla to save the planet. But this is human life we are writing about, not just a fuzzy little piece of inconsequential tissue that doesn’t matter until it is fully formed. This is a genetic human being and in my logic — no matter what my other beliefs — life must be defended.

Cindy Paslawski White Bear Lake

Guidelines for election letters to the editor reinstated

With the upcoming election in November, Press Publications will again implement a change to the guidelines for letters to the editor starting next week. In addition to the current guidelines for letters to the editor, letters that endorse a candidate, party or question on the ballot will be considered endorsement letters, and will require a $45 payment to be published. Letters in support of or against a candidate, party or ballot question will qualify as paid endorsement letters.

All endorsement letters will be labeled “paid letter” when they are published. Payment can be made by credit card through calling Press Publications at 651-407-1200. Payment can also be mailed with a letter submission or can be dropped off at the office at 4779 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake.

Letters that do not endorse a candidate or party or address an election-related topic continue to be free and are subject to the regular guidelines for letters to the editor.

Come One, Come All

NSP ‘66ers 75th Birthday Party

Wed. 9/6/23

10:45 - 1:30 p.m.

Stillwater River Boat $40 each (includes lunch, cash bar) RSVP by Aug. 26

Make Checks payable to: Class of 66 Send to: Pat Demma, 6118 – 150th St. N., Hugo 55038 781661

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office reports the selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township:

Vadnais Heights

• Harassment and terroristic threats were reported July 11 in the 200 block of Mayfair Road.

• The Dollar Tree in the 900 block of County Road E reported counterfeit $50 bills accepted during the purchase of a gift card July 12. The total amount of the loss was $350.

• A large kitchen knife was reported found July 12 in the grass at the side of the road near Vadnais Center Drive and Willow Lake Blvd. The knife was collected and placed into property at the patrol station for destruction.

• A Honda CRV was reported stolen sometime overnight July 12-13 as it was parked in the 3200 block of Moray Avenue. The vehicle was recovered by the St. Paul Police Department on July 14.

• A St. Paul man, 28, was arrested at 3:36 a.m. July 14 on Rice Street and I-694 for DUI and firearm-related offenses after deputies on patrol conducted a traffic stop for speeding and crossing over lane lines on the freeway. During the vehicle search, deputies discovered prescription medication and a 9mm handgun for which the suspect did not have a permit.

• An Oakdale man, 29, was arrested July 14 in the 900 block of County Road E for motor vehicle registration violations and attempting to escape tax, and a Stacy woman, 31, was arrested on a felony warrant out of Pine County after deputies responded to a shoplifting incident at the Walgreen's store. Both suspects escaped, but were both found at neighboring businesses. When the male suspect was identified, deputies found expired license plates that didn't match the VIN

of the vehicle he was driving, as well as additional license plates inside the vehicle that had been stolen out of St. Paul. A further search of the vehicle yielded a Walgreen's shopping basket in the truck containing $1,400 in merchandise that was not paid for, as well as merchandise from Famous Footwear, also not paid for. All of the merchandise was returned to the respective stores.

• A wallet was reported found July 15 in the 3500 block of Arcade Street and turned into the fire department, then over to deputies. Investigators inspected the wallet, located contact information and returned the wallet to its owner.

• The Walmart store in the 800 block of County Road E reported a theft July 15 that had occurred the day before. Through video surveillance footage, possible suspect information was obtained.

• A Vadnais Heights woman, 22, was arrested for domestic assault July 16 in the 300 block of Bankers Drive. Her case has been forwarded to the city attorney for consideration of charges.

• A Vadnais Heights man reported fraudulent transactions on his VENMO account July 17, after a random male and female asked to use his phone in the 700 block of County Road E to call their insurance company regarding their vehicle at the Walmart store. During the phone conversation, the victim provided further assistance and a ride to Minneapolis. When the victim returned home, he received an email notification of $900 in fraudulent transactions to his account. The case is under investigation.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Birchwood

• Cedar Street residents reported remnants of a previous car crash in their yard July 10. The no parking sign was bent and vehicle debris was scattered around the yard.

Grant

• A Minnesota motorist was cited July 8 in the 8000 block of 75th Street N. for parking violation after Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies on routine p atrol spotted the vehicle centered perfectly between the no parking signs. On July 9, deputies cited two more vehicles for parking violation in the 9000 block of Jeffrey Blvd. N. All the citations were left under the driver’s side windshield wiper.

• A license plate reported stolen July 8 from the front of a truck in the 8000 block of Jewel Avenue N. turned out to have been ripped off in the car wash, after the entire mounting mechanism was discovered missing.

White Bear Township

• Harassment was reported July 10 in the 5400 block of Bald Eagle Blvd. E. Deputies advised the complainant on the process of obtaining a harassment restraining order (HRO).

• A resident in the 5400 block of Jenni Lane reported three scratches on his vehicle that had occurred overnight July 15-16.

• A 36-year-old Greensboro, North Carolina, man was arrested for DWI July 16 at the BP station in the 5900 block of Highway 61 after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a person slumped over behind the wheel of a motor vehicle with the motor running at the gas pumps. He has been charged in Ramsey County Court for the violation and for test refusal.

• A White Bear Lake man reported a window of his vehicle smashed in July 19, and a backpack containing a computer stolen from the front passenger side floor, while he was walking his dog at Otter Lake dog park. A White Bear Lake couple also reported their vehicle broken into that same day at the same location while they were walking their dog. A shoulder bag was stolen from that vehicle.

• A White Bear Township woman reported her wallet missing July 19 after she dropped it in the parking lot of Cub Foods in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive. Video surveillance footage shows the item being picked up by a person parked in the handicapped space. On July 20, the victim called the patrol office to report that her wallet had been returned to her by the person who picked it up.

• Otter Lake Elementary School in the 1400 block of County Road H2 on July 19 reported graffiti on the walls of a shed, on the concrete near the shed and on the benches near the softball diamonds.

• D eputies cited a motorist for speeding July 11 in the 10000 block of 75th Street N.

• A parent in the 11000 block of Jasmine Trail N. reported that their d aughter had received two threatening phone calls from a blocked number on July 12. The complainant said he believed he knew who the threateners were and wanted the incident documented.

Mahtomedi

• Deputies cited a motorist opposite Century College on Century Avenue at 12:06 a.m. July 5 for driving a fter revocation and failure to provide proof of insurance, after they c onducted a random license plate check. The driver was advised to park the vehicle at the Speedway station and call for a valid driver.

• Intentional vehicle tampering was reported July 5 on Mahtomedi Avenue.

• A juvenile reported another juvenile for shooting him with a BB g un July 5 on Mahtomedi Avenue.

• An uninsured motorist was cited at 12:52 a.m. July 6 near Long Lake Road and Ledgestone Drive for failure to provide proof of insurance and for displaying expired

Welcome Officer Lorin Edmond

White Bear Lake Police Department’s newest officer, Lorin Edmond, (left) is sworn in at a White Bear Lake City Council meeting. Edmond chose a career in law enforcement because of the impact that community policing has and the opportunity for officers to play a role in changing and growing their community.

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

• Theft of a catalytic converter was reported Aug. 3 in the block of Linden Avenue.

• Theft from auto was reported Aug. 5 in the block of Sun terrace. A drill and accessories were stolen from an unlocked car.

• An officer was dispatched Aug. 6 in the block of Gardenette Drive S. for a person who was refusing to leave.

• An officer took a report of fraud Aug. 7 in the 4900 block of Georgia Lane resulting in a loss of $1,000.

• An officer took a report of theft Aug. 7 at the White Bear County Park boat launch. An approximately $60 loss was reported.

• An officer took report Aug. 7 of a theft from a business in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue.

• A theft of two bicycles was reported Aug. 7 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N. in White Bear Lake. One bicycle was located and reunited with its owner.

• Officers responded Aug. 8 to a male dancing in the median in the 1400 block of Highway 96. The man was located and denied needing police services. No citations or arrests were made.

r egistration.

• Deputies instructed individuals parked inside Wildwood Park on Lincolntown Avenue at 12:19 a.m. July 7 to leave the park after hours. At 11:55 p.m. July 9 deputies booted a vehicle and its occupants out of Katherine Abbott Park on Lincolntown Avenue after that park closed at 10 p.m.

• Deputies encountered resistance July 8 at 5:26 p.m. when they pulled over several boats inside the swimming area of Mahtomedi Beach on White Bear Lake. When they advised everyone to move out, most did. But one skipper became angry and hostile, refusing to move his boat. Eventually, his friends moved his boat for him.

• A male known to deputies was reported for punching a hole in a fence on Stillwater Road July 10, after deputies came into possession of video surveillance footage showing the incident.

• Hyde Avenue residents on July 10 reported that unknown persons had opened up a bank account using their financial information.

• T wo males were arrested at 10:30 p.m. July 10 near Wildwood Road and Century Avenue N. for felony

possession of a firearm after deputies on patrol conducted a traffic st op, followed by a vehicle search.

• A child's sandal reported for washing up on shore in the 1000 block of Park Avenue July 11 without the child and accompanied by another sandal floating in the lake turned out to be just that, as no children were reported missing in the water.

Pine Springs

• Boating items worth approximately $250 were reported stolen from a b oat in the 5000 block of Warner Road S. on July 6. The next day a boat motor was reported stolen from the same general location.

• A motorist pulled over for swerving over lane lines on I-694 at 11:44 p.m. July 7 was cited for failure to produce a valid driver's license. Deputies cited another motorist on July 8 in the 6000 block of Hilton Trail for speeding.

Willernie

• An assault incident was reported July 6 on Warner Avenue.

HONOREES: Police officer, first responders recognized for heroism in shooting incident

because as you can imagine to have a gun go off inside an apartment and there's yelling and screaming and you're trying to get around furniture and get out in a hurry,” Swanson said. “So despite all of the emotions, chaos and trauma that ensued, these officers remained calm and worked together to save their lives and avert any further tragic tragedy. “

Even after being shot multiple times, Sheak remained alert and talked to his partners, which kept everyone focused to help them get out of the apartment quickly. Officers Connor Dillon and Phonvelai Sorensen provided medical care to Sheak outside the apartment door while he continued to talk and reassure them.

Meanwhile, Sergeant Eric Gadbois remained at the apartment door by himself holding the perimeter and calling for additional resources, while Dillon and Sorensen brought officer Sheak to safety and turned him over to the White Bear Lake firefighters and EMS staff.

“Although their thoughts were with their injured partner, the three officers remained inside the building and held a perimeter until additional help arrived,” Swanson said.

After a long standoff, the suspect was safely taken into custody by the SWAT team.

White Bear Lake Fire Chief Greg Peterson said when the firefighters and paramedics arrived, there were still shots being fired as they were approached by the officers.

“The firefighters met the officers and brought him (Sheak) into the ambulance quickly, treated and transported him down to a local trauma center, which worked out very, very well,” Peterson said. “After that they stayed on scene and they worked with a SWAT team. They helped with things such as getting the SWAT team equipment, ladders, forcible entry tools and also helping to control the utilities within the building so to silence the alarm system and shut off the water and do other things. So they were in the building while this standoff was taking place.”

After a long standoff, the suspect was safely taken into custody by the SWAT team.

“We also had to treat that gentleman and transport him and he was very defiant and he kept threatening the officers while he was in the ambulance,” Peter-

son said. “He was not pleasant to deal with, but their professionalism shined through. The fact that they treated him nice and with the respect as they would any other patient and that's very, very difficult to do when a friend of yours just got shot.”

Lifesaving awards went to Capt. Matt Stallings; Lt. Steve Volber; firefighter paramedics Josh Thermack, Drew Gadbois, Jeremy Mock and Mitch Brown; and firefighter EMT Ben Ferderer.

The Medal of Honor is awarded for outstanding heroism or bravery in circumstances beyond normal expectations of duty and at imminent personal hazard of the actor's life with full knowledge of the risk involved and in keeping with the highest standards of the law enforcement profession.

Earning Medal of Honor awards were Sgt. Eric Gadbois and officers Sorensen and Connor Dillon.

“I just want to note that none of them thought about the personal hazard of their life or the risks that was involved in it, because this is second nature for them and they were just concerned about helping their partner,” Swanson said.

Sheak was awarded the Medal of Valor, which honors an act of bravery that demonstrates obvious self-sacrifice in the face of death or serious physical injury.

“Officer Sheak exemplifies this award,” Swanson said. “He suffered three gunshot wounds that evening, spent over a week in the hospital and has

endured six and a half months of surgeries, physical therapy and healing. We're thrilled to report that he returned to work this week.”

Swanson also recognized Sheak's wife Amber.

“It's been six and a half months of her keeping the family together and her making sure that Ryan is taking it easy,” Swanson said. “Her strength and resilience is very admirable. I want to also recognize her involvement and thank her for always being there worrying about everybody else in the department when her life had just been changed drastically.”

Sheak thanked everyone who has been there for him and his family since the incident. Here is a summary of what he said.

“I love you for supporting me and my family. First, I want to say thank you to my wife. She's a rock, so thank you, thank you to our team. I mean, I don't know what to say. It was a crappy situation. We worked together and training kicked in. I am super proud and thankful for everybody that evening that was on my team for how you acted and reacted and supported each other and just got the job done. To my buddies on the fire team, I've been meaning to get to you guys in a meeting and thank you guys. As soon as I hit that ambulance, I knew I had the A-Team, and it was honestly really reassuring … I don't know who called my wife, but thank you for doing that and just giving her a sense of reassurance and calmness that she needed till she got to the hospital. Thanks to the city and what you guys have done for my family and I and our department and those that went on the journey with me that day. It's just been overwhelming with the support that everybody's been given us, and I hope this never happens again. But if it does, I know that we're going to handle it the same way with a lot of care, consideration, support and love for those that are going through it. Everybody did a great job.”

On behalf of the White Bear Lake City Council, Mayor Dan Louismet said officers and firefighters made everyone very proud the night of the incident.

“We were all sitting here when that call came in and it was uncharted territory for everyone on the council and we were, I wouldn't say panicking, but didn't know what to do,” Louismet said. “The events of Jan. 24 were a reminder to this council and to everyone just how dangerous your jobs are.”

PAUL DOLS PRESS PUBLICATIONS

White Bear Lake Police Officer Ryan Sheak speaks about the shooting incident after receiving the Medal of Valor award.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE

OF ASSUMED NAME

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

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Late Night Eats and Treats

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1048 Rice St Saint Paul, MN 55117

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

Dar’s Double Scoop LLC 1048 Rice St Saint Paul, MN 55117

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

Dated: August 1, 2023

Signed: Consuela Sanders

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 9 and 16, 2023

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE

OF ASSUMED NAME

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

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

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1390 Reaney Ave Saint Paul, MN 55106

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

Leng Thao

1390 Reaney Ave Saint Paul, MN 55106

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

Dated: July 10, 2023

Signed: Leng Thao

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 9 and 16, 2023.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA

SECRETARY

OF STATE

CERTIFICATE AND ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION FOR A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

I, Steve Simon, Secretary of State of Minnesota, do certify that: The following business entitly has duly complied with the relevant provisions of Minnesota Statutes listed below, and is formed or authorized to do business in Minnesota on and after this date with all the powers, rights and privileges, and subject to the limitations, duties and restrictions set forth in that chapter. The business entity is now legally registered under the laws of Minnesota.

File Number: 1398205300023

Minnesota Statutes, Chapter: 322C

ARTICLE 1. NAME OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY: Cities Title LLC

ARTICLE 2. REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT AT THAT ADDRESS:

Jamie Jungmann 2732 County Road D E White Bear Lake, MN 55110

ARTICLE 3. DURATION: Perpetual

ARTICLE 4. ORGANIZERS:

Jamie Jungmann 2732 County Road D E White Bear Lake, MN 55110

Dated: June 30, 2023

Signed: Jamie Jungmann

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 16 and 23, 2023.

CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Vadnais Heights Planning Commission will meet and conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 800 East County Road E, to consider an application submitted by Connexus Energy for site plan review at 4037 Centerville Road.

Anyone wishing to be heard in regard to this matter will be given an opportunity at this time. The application is available for public review at City Hall during normal business hours and is made available on the City’s webpage at least five days prior to the public hearing. Questions or comments should be directed to Nolan Wall, Planning and Community Development Director, at (651) 204-6027 or nolan.wall@cityvadnaisheights.com.

FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS

Kevin P. Watson, City Administrator

Dated: August 23, 2023

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 16, 2023.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES AUGUST 1, 2023

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:00 a.m. with the following members present: Frethem, Moran, Ortega, Reinhardt, Xiong and Chair MatasCastillo. Also present was Ryan O’Connor, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.

AGENDA of August 1, 2023 was presented for approval. Motion by Moran, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved.

MINUTES of July 18, 2023 were presented for approval. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Moran. Unanimously approved

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT – Read by Commissioner Reinhardt.

PRESENTATION OF AWARD

Human Resources – Presentation: Ramsey county Employee Achievement

Award: Mai Xiong Vang, Public Health. Presented by Commissioner Xiong.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Health and Wellness Administration – Joint Powers Agreement with Saint Paul Children’s Collaborative. Motion by Reinhardt, seconded by Frethem.

Unanimously approved. (B2023-122)

Community Corrections – Joint Powers Agreement with the Metro East Consortium for Adult Basic Education Services. Motion by Reinhardt, seconded by Frethem. Unanimously approved. (B2023-123)

Housing Stability – Amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs for the Functional Zero Project. Motion by Reinhardt, seconded by Frethem. Unanimously approved. (B2023-124)

Community & Economic Development – Amendment to Twin Cities Army

Ammunition Plant Master Plan. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt.

Unanimously approved. (B2023-125)

COUNTY CONNECTIONS – Presented by Ryan O’Connor, County Man-

ager. Discussion can be found on archived video.

OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS – Discussion can be found on archived video.

BOARD CHAIR UPDATES – Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADJOURNMENT – Chair MatasCastillo declared the meeting adjourned at 9:55 a.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 16, 2023.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

PUBLIC NOTICE

SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES

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

Ramsey County is accepting only electronic Request for Bids (RFBs) responses submitted through DemandStar. Public openings are conducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details. To view current solicitations, please go to: https://bit.ly/3W8XWan

SOLICITATION: RFB-PRK23262-KB

OPENING DATE: 9/21/23

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY THROUGH PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A QUALIFIED CONTRACTOR TO REPAIR AND INSTALL BITUMINOUS CART PATH EXTENSIONS ON KELLER GOLF COURSE (GC).

PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: KELLER GOLF COURSE CLUB HOUSE, 2168 MAPLEWOOD DR, MAPLEWOOD, MN 55109. 9/6/2023. 3:00 PM CST. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 16, 2023.

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

PROBATE DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-23-649

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

Estate of Paul Anthony Vergosen,

Decedent

Notice is given that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Registrar. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Registrar has informally appointed Katherine Vergosen, 2982 Walter St. No., Maplewood, Minnesota, 55109, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir 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 with the Court (pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 524.3-607) and the Court otherwise orders. the personal representative has full power to administer the Estate including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Any objections to the appointment of the Personal Representative must be filed with this Court and will be heard by the Court after the filing of an appropriate petitjon and proper notice of hearing.

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

Signed:

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator

Date: August 1, 2023

Attorney for Personal Representative

Brian E. Stevens

The Law Offices of Brian E. Stevens, PA

11670 Fountains Dr. Maple Grove, MN, 55369

Attorney License No: 0241167

Telephone: (763) 404-8677; Email: brian@stevenslawmn.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 9 and 16, 2023.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, RAMSEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NUMBER:62-PR-23-592

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL)

In re the Estate of:

Sharon Ngoc Vo, Decedent.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on July 24, 2023 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:

Thanhphong Vo

5528 102nd Avenue North Brooklyn Park, MN 55443

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

Date: July 25, 2023

Self-Represented Litigant: Thanhphong Vo 5528 102nd Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443

Telephone: 612-888-2074; Email: vopault@yahoo.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 9 and 16, 2023.

A Petition for Determination of Descent has been filed with this Court. The Petition represents that the decedent died more than three years ago, leaving property in Minnesota and requests the probate of Decedent’s last Will, if any, and the decedent of such property be determined and assigned by this Court to the persons entitled to the property.

Any objections to the Petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper, and no objections are filed or raised, the Petition may be granted. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

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

IT IS ORDERED and Notice is further given that the Petition will be heard via zoom technology by this Court, on SEPTEMBER 27, 2023, AT 11:00 a.m. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that notice shall be given by publishing this Notice and Order as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice and Order at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

BY THE COURT:

Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator Benjamin Linker, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: August 4, 2023

Attorney for Petitioner:

Name: Jeanne M. Anderson

Firm: Anderson Legal Services, PLLC

Address: 105 New England Place, STE. 145

Stillwater, MN 55082

Attorney License No.: 0166170

Email: jeannemanderson@stillwater-attorney.com

Telephone: 651-439-8093

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 16 and 23, 2023.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, RAMSEY COUNTY

DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT

COURT FILE NUMBER: 62-PR-23-637

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

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

In re the Estate of:

Helen Mangine, a/k/a Helen A. Mangine and Helen Angiolina Mangine, Decedent.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an application for informal probate of the abovenamed Decedent’s Last Will dated August 30, 2021 (“Will”) has been filed with the Probate Registrar, and the application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following:

James L. Anderson

326 Karen Drive, Apt 438

Woodbury, MN 55129

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.

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

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

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Michael F. Upton

Court Administrator

Date: August 9, 2023

Attorney for Personal Representative:

John W. Lang

Messerli & Kramer P.A.

I.D. # 143327

100 S. Fifth St., Suite 1400

Minneapolis, MN 55402

Telephone: 612-672-3614

Email: jlang@messerlikramer.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 16 and 23, 2023.

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-23-719

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

In re the Estate of:

Delores J. Eikos, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at 9:15 a.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated August 15, 2017 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Edward B. Moore, whose address is 5605 Donegal Drive, Shoreview, Minnesota 55126, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

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

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

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

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

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

BY THE COURT:

Date: August 9, 2023

Michael Upton, Court Administrator

BY: Benjamin Linker, Deputy Court Administrator

Attorney for Petitioner: Paul D. Funke, Funke Law 3900 Northwoods Drive, Suite 250, St. Paul, MN, 55112

Attorney License No: 0395366

Telephone: (651) 332-8710; FAX: (651) 482-8909

Email: paul@funkelawoffice.com

Estate of: Roger Carl Carlson, Decedent

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 16 and 23, 2023.

Construction program continues to build valuable lessons for students

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

High school students traded books, pens and paper for hammers and saws in lessons on home construction in North St. Paul.

Coleton Thiel, a 2023 graduate of White Bear Lake, was enrolled in the construction occupations program at the District 916 Career and Technical Center. He was one of approximately 109 students who built a home from the ground up.

“I've never been the kid that does good in actual classes, to sit down and read books and memorize stuff,” Thiel said. “My counselor was talking to me and she brought up the fact that I could build a house, and I knew I wanted to get into trades. I thought that was really interesting and something I wanted to do.”

This is the 29th student-built home for the program. Thiel said it took approximately seven months to build, and had high praise for instructor Tom Spehn.

“He's a really good guy and taught me a lot,” Thiel said. “He's been building houses his whole life, and he says our houses are built better than most professional houses because we go through every single step of learning how to do it. I guess you can say you're learning a lot of valuable life lessons.”

Thiel said experiencing the satisfaction of building a residential home from the ground up was rewarding. He learned how to operate power tools in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, HVAC and electrical while working alongside trade professionals.

“This is going to sound a little cliché, but I learned that hard work does get you somewhere, and trying new things really helps out you, the people around you, and it motivates other people,” Thiel said. “I also learned how quickly

Lost Cat SCOOTER

the morale or mood of everybody around can swing from being really good to really bad just based on one person's energy. If they're being negative about something, everybody would get negative about it. But if one person stepped up and did it, everybody was like ... let's try it.”

Building the home confirmed Thiel's decision to go into the blue collar industry after graduation. He works at Capra's Utilities in White Bear Lake, but he will never forget the experience

of the class at District 916 Career and Technical Center.

“The class was really interesting because I didn't really have to do any paperwork, and I got real-world experience,” Thiel said. “We got to work with our hands every single day and use problem solving in a different way than school taught us to … like real-life problem solving. It was really cool to see how a group of kids came together and built the house. Some people didn't know how to swing a hammer at the beginning of the year, but it was a lot of fun.”

District 916 Career and Technical Center offers 20 programs that give high school students professional skills, industry certifications and college credit (in many programs). Those credits give students a head start toward post-secondary success while earning high school elective credit.

Students come from 14 school districts north and east of the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, and the coursework is part of a student's normal school day. Students attend for 105 minutes and spend the remainder of their day at their home high school taking their required core classes. Transportation is provided, and courses are held on the campus of Century College.

For more information, visit careertech.916schools.org/.

Otter Lake Road extension planned

The city of Lino Lakes will pay $468,258 to complete plans and specifications for the extension of Otter Lake Road. The Otter Lake Road master plan study was completed in December 2022. The study identified the preferred alignment for the extension of Otter

Lake Road from Main Street (CSAH 14) to its intersection with 24th Avenue.

The project is currently identified in the city’s long-range financial plan for construction in 2025. Phase 1 stormwater improvements are scheduled for construction in 2024. The

project would include the extension of trunk sanitary sewer and water main, storm sewer and regional ponding, pedestrian/bicycle facilities along with the roadway. The project length is approximately ¾ of a mile. The preliminary estimated cost is $8.4 million.

CONTRIBUTED

The completed home of District 916 Career and Technical Center. Next year’s student-built home will be next door to this one.

Although Jake from State Farm is not here in White Bear Lake the surprisingly great rates are.

Thanks to all who came to my Open House to help me celebrate 35 years in business. Special thanks to my team and family!

Serving the insurance needs of the people of White Bear Lake and MN has brought me great joy. State Farm’s mission of helping people recover from the unexpected and putting our customers’ needs first has been part of my whole life with my father, brother and nephew all serving as State Farm agents.

That tradition of a local State Farm presence and Johnson family Good Neighbor Agent at 2481 County Road E E will continue for years to come. Thanks for choosing us as your 1st and best choice.

WALK-IN, TEXT OR CALL SO WE CAN CONTINUE TO SERVE YOU.

Ukrainian students receive White Bear welcome

Above: Ukrainian students participating in YouLEAD, or the Youth Leadership Engagement and Development Program, take part in a playful, immersive experience in White Bear Lake during a recent welcoming picnic at West Park and Memorial Beach.

At right: YouLEAD participants display the American and Ukrainian flags for a group photo in West Park.

Develop confidence, coordination, flexibility and self-esteem while having fun!

• Gymnastics for boys and girls, ages 18 mo. - 18 yrs.

• Birthday parties • Camps and field trips

Open gym

Above: The students release a Monarch butterfly at the welcoming picnic. They arrived in the United States the previous day and will be engaged in a five week program that includes introductions to government and public service, philanthropy, service, civic groups, business and entrepreneurship, education and arts and culture. They will be back in White Bear Lake on week four at the WBCA and the Taste of White Bear Rotary fundraising event.

Archer

Bella

Harry

Cedar

Dawson

Aspen

Georgie Hunter

Craig

Keaton

Beau

Guinness

Cash

Huntley and Holland

Dakota

Finny

Mini

Nika Butterscotch

Rio

Maverick

Clover and Willow

Moey

Romeo

Sassy Jo

Wallie

Wallace

The Duke

Rexy

Zoey Shearen

Remi

Road warriors turn out to help a family in need

DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

A main takeaway from the 35th annual Tour De Bar is that people are generous.

That comment from organizer Michael Shearen holds true for every year the benefit has been held. And the committee is still counting the money.

“We still have people donating, so we won’t have the big ‘reveal’ until midSeptember,” Shearen said.

The reveal is the official check presentation to the Tour recipient(s) — this year, it’s 8-month-old Teigan Barnett. Baby Teigan was diagnosed with congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) in-utero at 24 weeks. A mass was detected growing inside one of her lungs in place of normal tissue during a prenatal checkup.

CPAM affects about one in 25,000 pregnancies; it is not hereditary, but the disease is life-threatening if not treated. Treatment in the baby’s case involved removing 90% of her lung when Teigan was just six days old. The family is hopeful the remaining 10% of her lung tissue regenerates to what doctors say could be 30% capacity over her lifetime.

Teigan’s mother, Lacie Morgan, is a single mother who works part-time at Cabin 61, one of the stops on the Tour

De Bar. She also has a 4-year-old son, Bronson.

Bronson had the honor of drawing the names of raffle winners at this year’s event. Raffle prizes were worth about $8,500, according to Shearen, again thanks to generous supporters.

An electric bike was donated by Jodie and Gene Sax, owners of Bear Town Auto Body and Mechanical, and Shannon and Chris Schultz, owners of Salon Ultimo in Woodbury, again fronted cash to kick off the annual benefit, as well as gift cards. Shearen said the couple, both White Bear grads, have probably contributed more than $12,000 to Tour De Bar. “It’s pretty amazing,” noted Shearan, who chairs the committee with wife Linda.

Donations are still being accepted for the 2023 beneficiary. Send checks payable to Tour De Bar Bicycle Benefit to Mike and Linda Shearen, 2181 Southwood Drive, White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

PHOTOS BY DAVIN BRANDT | CONTRIBUTED

Lacie Morgan, front, participates in the ride on a tandem bike with Kari Boaz, Cabin 61’s bar manager.

The Tour De Bar organizing committee includes, from left, Paula Dunkel, Barb Shie, Sue Dailey, Kevin Schmidt, co-chair Mike Shearen, co-chair Linda Shearen and Rick Hill. In front are Lacie Morgan and her children, Teigan and Bronson.

The beneficiary is baby Teigan Barnett, shown with mother Lacie Morgan and brother Bronson.

Colleen and Craig Cowell of White Bear Lake team up for the ride.

A group photo kicks off the tour.

Sylvia C. Bailey

Age 86, a long-time resident of Mahtomedi, passed away August 9, 2023, in Madelia, MN. She was one of five children born to Leonard and Betty Peterson. After high school, she joined the United States Navy, and later spent her years working for 3M.

Sylvia is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Olson Paul of St. James, MN; a granddaughter, Hanah (Andrew) Bonilla, two great-grandsons, Wyatt and Porter Bonilla, all of Owatonna, MN; and her sister Phyllis Peterson Rosen of Tyler, MN. She was preceded in death by her husband, the love of her life, Gordon Bailey.

Sylvia was an incredible person. She taught her family to be curious, to ask questions and to seek out new adventures. She was full of love and life. Her impact on all who knew her will be felt forever. She was dearly loved and there will be a hole in the hearts of her family forever.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on August 15, 2023, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home (1603 Austin Rd, Owatonna, MN 55060). Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.

For more information or to leave a message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com

Bernard Herrick Hawn

Bernie walked into the arms of the Lord on July 30, 2023. He was born on November 17, 1934 to Merle and Geneveve Hawn at Fargo, North Dakota. He met the love of his life, Ardys Bunn while working at First National Bank in Fargo. They were married October 24, 1954 in Enderlin, North Dakota. He is proceeded by his wife Ardys, parents Merle and Geneveve. He is survived by, daughter Barbara (Rick) Rettig, son Scott (Deb) Hawn, daughter Virginia (Mike) Kerstetter, daughter Mary (David) Covillo, son Matt (Dawn) Hawn, 12 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. He is also survived by sister Elizabeth Nelson. Bernie retired from the postal service after 30 years. A celebration of his life will be held graveside 11am Saturday August 26th 2023 at Pontiac Cemetery in Enderlin, North Dakota. In lieu of flowers the family is asking that memorial donations be made to Hope Care Clinic 1625 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA. 98801.

Ellen “Jibby” Maas

Age 91, of Birchwood, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2023, with family at her side.

Preceded in death by loving husband of 52 years, Hon. Kenneth J. Maas, Jr.; sister, Rita Traynor; brother, Robert Roach; sister-in law, Betty Bennett; son-inlaw, Robert Tessier; granddaughter, Polly Voltz. Survived by her six children: Hon. Ellen (Len)

Pratt; Ann Tessier; K.J. (Julie) Maas; Lucy (Tim) Voltz; Nancy Maas; and Michael (Rochelle) Maas; ten grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Jibby graduated from St. Catherine University in 1955, with a degree in Medical Technology. In 1962, Ken and Jibby moved to their home on White Bear Lake, where they raised their family. Jibby enjoyed travel, tennis, skiing, sailing, singing in the choir at St. Jude’s, and playing her French horn in the Birchwood Fourth of July parade. We all will miss Jibby’s infectious smile and quick wit. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church, Kenwood Symphony Orchestra, and White Bear Lake Sailing School. MuellerMemorial.com 651.429.4944

Mark Edward Lowell

It is with great saddness that we annouce the passing of Mark Edward Lowell, on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at the age of 62. Mark was greeted by his parents, Earl and Louva, and reunited with his brother, Michael. Beloved by his community, Mark Lowell was well-known around White Bear Lake as a family man, crafty carpenter, music lover, storyteller, and motorcycle enthusiast. The neighbor boys called Mark “the Harley Guy”. He loved long motorcycle rides on open roads with the speakers blaring and wind blowing through his hair. As an artisan carpenter, his handiness, dedication, and expertise showed through all of the work he created. Mark was as tough as the nails he put into the homes that he built. He would never back away from a challenge, and was always willing to stand up for the little guy, and help anyone in need when he could.

Mark is survived by his children Cheryl, Levi, Logan, Landra, and Lexis; many grandchildren; siblings Lance, Pete, Peggy, Bev, and Molly; significant other Leann and her daughters, Kasey, Madeline, and Lexi; mother of his children, Darla; best friend Donny; and he will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, other extended family members, close friends, and coworkers.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 20 at Kellerman’s Event Center from 3 to 6 p.m. On behalf of Mark and his family, speaker Cindy will be starting at 3:15 p.m. Followed by light snacks, a cash bar, and many memories of the man, the myth, the legend, Mark Lowell. Kellerman’s Event Center, 2222 4th St., White Bear Lake, MN, www.kellermanseventcenter.com, 612-308-8801.

Gerald “Jerry” George Matthies

Gerald died on August 4, 2023. He lived to be 100 years and 5 months old. Jerry was born to Arthur and Mabel (Carlson) Matthies in White Bear Township on February 22, 1923. He graduated from White Bear Lake High School in 1941. He enlisted in the Army on 1/25/1945 and was stationed in Japan as an Army PFC Cook for most of his service. He was honorably discharged on November 19, 1946. He returned home to work the farm with his parents. In 1949 he met Virginia Clausen and they were married on October 11, 1952. Sadly, this was a short-lived marriage as Virginia died from cancer on May 21, 1956. Jerry and his parents sold their farm and moved to Lindstrom in 1969. Jerry worked on and off for Johnson Brothers Moving Company and Paul Holm Auctioneering.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Virginia, and parents, Arthur, and Mabel. He is survived by close friends. A private burial will be held later.

We would like to thank the staff at Parmly-on-theLake and Ecumen Hospice for taking care of Jerry and seeing to his comfort. Thank you also to the veterans and staff at Parmly-on-the-Lake for the moving ceremony.

Funeral Services will be private with interment at Union Cemetery in Maplewood, Minnesota. Arrangements by the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom, MN Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com

DEATH NOTICE

Gerald “Jerry” John Miller

Jerry, 67, formerly from White Bear Lake passed away from medical complications on August 5th, 2023 in Pass Grant, Oregon.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Lois and Jack Miller.

He is survived by his sister Ann and brothers Larry, Jim and Bob.

CLARIFICATION

In the Aug. 9 issue of the White Bear Press and Vadnais Heights Press, the story “White Bear man's body found in Bald Eagle Lake,” the information about Mark Lowell's memorial service was changed by the family after the papers went to print. The correct information for Mark Lowell’s is a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, Aug. 20 at Kellerman's Event Center from 3 to 6 p.m.

John Watson Milton

John passed peacefully at home with his beloved wife Maureen Acosta. He was preceded by his parents John and Mary Milton; and his first wife Judy Peck Milton. He is also survived by children Melissa Milton (Kate Kemble), Laura Robertson (Michael LeBlanc), Peter Milton (Dawn), Jason Milton (Tracy) and John Milton III (Stacey). Stepchildren: Jeff Kunshier (Jamie Radford) and Steven Kunshier (Miaken), 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, and many other family and friends.

A graduate of St. Paul Academy and Princeton University, John worked for Mobile Oil, Peck, Inc., Control Data, and North Memorial Medical Center. But his true calling was writing. He published the award-wining Fallen Nightingale (about Enrique Granados), For the Good of the Order (a bio of the late Sen. and Majority Leader Nicholas Coleman), and other books and articles. John was elected Ramsey County Commissioner in 1970; and elected State Senator for the White Bear area in 1972 and 1976. He served on many nonprofit boards. A Renaissance man, John enjoyed writing, playing the guitar, cooking, reading, growing grapes, good music, politics, travel, and entertaining family and friends. He spoke 3 languages.

His Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 21 from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Brickhouse in White Bear Lake. To recognize John’s strong commitment to public higher education, memorials may be made to a scholarship fund established in his memory at Metro State University.

Ruby Eunice Schultz

October 10, 1928 - August

5, 2023

Gone to her Heavenly Father. Preceded in death by her loving husband, Percy.

She is survived by her loving children, Kathleen (David) Abel, Kristine Bump (Thomas Elden), Karen (Jeffrey) Ryans, Brian (Charlotte) Schultz, Beverly Schultz Kelley (Arnie), Bonnie (Daniel) Pechonis. Ruby also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren as well as many relatives and friends. Ruby was involved in many community organizations as well as being a Charter Member of Christ the Servant Lutheran Church in Vadnais Heights, MN.

Visitation will be at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127, Friday August 18, 2023. Visitation 10 a.m., Service 11 a.m.

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Let the chaos begin: Bear’s defensive guru gets back to work

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Summer is nearing its end, which many Minnesotans regard wistfully. In the football coaching fraternity, however, it’s time to get fired up. “I am itching to go,” acknowledged Dustin Holman late last week.

Holman is the veteran defensive coordinator for the White Bear Lake Bears who, like all 210 football teams in the state, started practice Monday. In the Bears' case, the tradition is hold the first practice just past midnight.

Head coach Ryan Bartlett depends heavily on Holman, giving him much of the credit for solid seasons the last two years. The team was 7-3 in 2022 and 6-3 in 2021, ending a string of losing seasons.

“Dustin has a relentless work ethic, a strong desire to keep getting better, a lot of hunger,” said Bartlett, who’s had Holman on the staff since arriving in 2012. “The kids love him. He holds them to high standards, and he gets the most out of them.”

The head coach added, “I know the defense too, of course, but Dustin makes all the calls on Friday nights.”

The Bears defense last year didn’t give up a touchdown at home until the playoff opener, a 28-23 win over Anoka. In the second round of playoffs, things went south after the Bear quarterback was injured and they lost 30-0 to Lakeville South as an Iowa State-bound wideout made several spectacular catches. But it was a good season, including shutouts against Totino-Grace and Osseo, the latter especially satisfying Holman said, because the Orioles had several big college prospects on the line.

Asked how a defensive unit is constructed, Holman, a former Bears captain himself, said it’s a huge team effort, starting with “lots of guys teaching the basics”

at the levels leading up to varsity. “How to tackle, block destruction, and ball destruction. Creating turnovers.”

At the varsity level, it’s a matter of installing tactics and mindsets under “the big umbrella,” meaning the team’s defensive philosophy, which in the Bears’ case centers on one word: chaos.

“We want to create chaos by pressuring the backfield,” Holman explained. “We do not sit back. We blitz five guys every play. We want to force offense to accelerate their thinking. Then we can take advantage of possible bad decisions they make. We want to get the other team ‘behind the sticks’ — negative yards. A lot of teams sit in the offense’s gaps and try to funnel them where they can make a play. We blitz into the gaps and always try to get into their backfield.”

This can be “a fragile system,” he said, vulnerable to giving up big plays. “But we always hope to make more plays that go in our direction.”

One opposing quarterback in 2022 difficult to rein in was Stillwater’s Max Shikenjanski, a walk-on with the Gophers this year. “Max was so fast and able to get rid of the ball so quickly,” Holman said. “But that was a great high school football game, before a huge crowd. Really fun.” Bears QB Gavin Knutson had

Zephyr fall teams start limbering up

It’s ready, set, sweat for Mahtomedi’s fall athletic teams as they started workouts for the 2023 season this week.

Mahtomedi girls soccer, the school’s most successful program with ten state championships, was state runner-up last season, with an 18-3 record. Longtime coach David Wald has nine returning starters, including Star-Tribune all-metro picks Savannah Stockness and Sophia Peer. They’ll open with two games in Rochester Aug. 25-26.

Zephyr football, coached by Dave Muetzel, was 10-2 last year. They won the section and lost in the state semifinals at U.S. Bank Stadium with mostly a senior team. Charlie Brandt will be a third-year starter at quarterback. The opener is Friday, Sept. 1, at home against Brainerd.

The boys soccer team, coached by Dominic Isaac, returns ten starters from an 8-6-3 season, although their all-conference players graduated. They will open Aug. 24 at

Duluth Denfeld.

Zephyr girls swimming, coached by Mike Goldman, was section runner-up and placed 12th at state in 2023.  Leading the group of returning players is freshman Abigail Wright, who medaled at state in both sprints. They will open Aug. 24 at conference relays in Simley.

The tennis team will, as always, be the first to start Friday at Stillwater. There’s a new coach, Nathan Tretsven. The Zephyrs are perennial conference champions; they tied for first last year and were 13-7 overall. They have two players with state experience, Annika Munson and Kate Hoffman.  Zephyr volleyball was 25-7 last year with the program’s first state trip and first conference title. They have new coach Tia Schlundt, and two starters back, Silvie Graetzer and Kaili Malvey. The opener is Aug. 24 at Cretin-Derham Hall.

The cross country teams, coached by Jim Driscoll, open Sept. 1 at Rosemount. The girls were conference and section runners-up, while the boys placed third in both, last season. Each returns four of their top seven, led by William Lieberman, Gabby Fox and Vanessa Rogosheske.

Bruce Strand

Bear athletes get back in action

White Bear Lake’s athletic teams are strapping on their cleats, sneakers, helmets and goggles this week to start two weeks of practice prior to 2023 season openers.

The Bears football team, coached by Ryan Bartlett, is coming off a 7-3 season with one playoff win. Returning starters include leading pass rusher Aiden Akins and leading ground gainer Kesean Lipscomb. The Bears will open at Minnetonka on Thursday, Aug. 31.

Bear girls tennis is coming off its best season (14-8) in many years, under coach Marla Menne. Leaders are returning all-conference players Tally Domschot and Elia Groneberg. The Bears will open Aug. 25 at Pine City.

Bear girls soccer has averaged 11 wins over the last seven years, and was

13-5 last year. They bring back the top two scorers, Jenna Maloy and Becca Smith, among several starters. Coaches are John Dierkhising and Dave Ashley.

The opener is Aug. 24 at Centennial.

The boys soccer team, under coach Karl Jende, returns a dozen starters from an 8-6-2 team, including goalkeeper Kyle Christensen, who allowed just 1.16 goals per game. The Bears open at home Aug. 24 against Maple Grove.

The boys cross country squad has gone to state in 13 of coach Dan Kovacich’s first 20 seasons although they just missed last year, placing fourth in the conference and third in the section. Top three will be all-stater Luke Williams, Isaac Kolstad and Vaughn Larson. They open Sept. 1

a big game, too, but the Ponies got the last TD and won 35-28.

The defensive staff (which includes his brother Adam) loves challenges, Holman said, and they have their work cut out of them again this year. The will face four more Division I bound QB’s at Woodbury, Minnetonka, East Ridge and Stillwater.

Holman was a defensive end for the Bears in 2006 and 2007 under the late Bob Jackson, both good seasons that ended in close section finals losses, to Roseville and Mounds View. His senior year, they upset Irondale, with Holman recovering a fumble at the Bears’ 10 in the final minute as Irondale was about to take the lead. “Ironically, Ryan was Irondale’s offensive coordinator then,” said Holman, adding, with a chuckle, “When he came here, I told him I was the guy who recovered that fumble.”

Also in basketball and track (shot put and discus) with the Bears, Holman did not play college football, but got back into the game when he was a college sophomore and Jackson asked him to coach the defensive line. “I found out that I loved working with kids,” said Holman, “and switched my major to teaching.”

This is Holman’s 14th year on the staff, and he’s run the defense since 2017. A Concordia-St. Paul graduate, he teaches various health classes and physical education. His wife, Kristie, teaches Spanish.

“Football is a really tough, demanding sport that requires a lot of sacrifice and selflessness for the benefit of the larger group,” he said. “Kids must be willing to work all week to help prepare teammates for the game, even if they aren't going to play. That demands mental toughness and caring about something and someone beyond themselves. The game really exposes your mental and emotional strength.”

Celebrations

50th CLASS REUNION

1973 Class of Alexander Ramsey

September 9, 2023

Shoreview Best Western

Contact: Connie Gerard, Ph. 651-248-9513 775208

Upcoming Games

at Rosemount.

Girls cross country, coached by Christine Thomas, took third in the section in 2022. Rosie Sommers and Clara Kolstad are returning allconference runners. They will open Sept. 1 at Rosemount.

The volleyball team, under coach Michelle Leverty, was 14-15 last year but 1-8 in conference. Returning are leading hitter Kylie Gustafson and digger Kailey Geiske. The Bears open Aug. 24 at Minneapolis Roosevelt.

The swim team under coach Tia Quirk had a young roster in 2022. They will open at the conference relays Aug. 24 at Cottage Grove.

Bruce Strand

BRENNAN SCHACHTNER CONTRIBUTED Dustin Holman patrolled the sidelines running the Bears defense in a playoff game.

JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED Sophia Peer is one of the returning players from the Zephyr soccer team’s state runner-up season.

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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 newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for

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Please send resume to: 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110 or email resume to: ppinfo@presspubs.com

Road projects to begin, plan for detours

County Road E between Hoffman Road and Linden Avenue in White Bear Lake will be closed for approximately two weeks starting this week. The work will include utility connections for new apartment buildings and extending the current median. Detour signs will be in place on White Bear and Cedar Avenues and Highway 61.

A sidewalk will be constructed on the north side of County Road F between McKnight Road and Jay

Lane in White Bear Lake. The project includes some utility relocations. The utility work is planned to begin in fall and run through spring. 2024.

For more information about these projects and other road closures in Ramsey County, visit ramseycounty.us/residents/roads-transportation/ current-roadwork/2023-road-constructionmaintenance.

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A map of the detours on County Road E.

Northern Lights

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Support clean water initiatives at Water Ball

H2O for Life, the White Bear Lake-based nonprofit organization that empowers youth to help solve the global water crisis, is gearing up for its 13th annual Water Ball fundraiser. The event will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21, at 7 Vines Vineyard in Dellwood.

The event will feature fine wines, catered appetizers, live and silent auction, and live music by Hall & Söl. The featured guest speaker is Austin Alexander, vice president of Sustainability and Social Impact at Xylem. He also participated in H2O For Life as a high school student.

To purchase tickets for the event, go to h2oforlifeschools.org.

Conservation celebration

This summer, the Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) turns 40 and the Ramsey County Soil and Water Conservation Division (RCSWCD) turns 50. Together, the two organizations have studied local lakes, fought off invasive plant and fish species, protected groundwater, restored key places for habitat and water storage, and more. Over the decades the work has also included evening meetings, surveys and forums in partnership with local cities, businesses and organizations. Conservation of local soil and water is made possible through a community effort. The public is invited to celebrate from 3 to 7 p.m. Aug. 24 at the Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park – Sucker Lake section in pavilion shelter No. 1, located on the north end of the park at the Rice Street

entrance, near Hwy 96.

The event will include highlights of conservation and clean water efforts over the decades, and past administrators, commissioners and board members will be recognized. Food, games and a family-friendly macroinvertebrates (water bugs) science activity will be provided in addition to mini-tours of nearby restoration efforts in the park.

Find more info and RSVP at VLAWMO.org/events or call -651-204-6070 for questions.

Free activity pass for seniors

White Bear Lake Area Schools is offering free activity passes to district residents ages 65 and up. The Lifetime Activity Pass provides complimentary admission to school activities. To get a pass, go to isd624.org/SeniorActivityPass or call 651-407-7563.

Chronic Pain Overview

Chronic pain is the most common major medical condition among adults. In the U.S. alone, chronic pain is estimated to affect over 50 million people and cost $635 billion annually, more than the annual costs of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes combined. About 18 million adults in the U.S. live with chronic pain that limits their ability to complete daily activities.

Pain is considered chronic if it has lasted for three months or more. Though causes can vary, chronic pain is generally the result of an injury, illness, or nerve damage. It can present itself in many different ways, but among the most common conditions that cause chronic pain are sciatica, spinal stenosis, arthritis, herniated discs, fibromyalgia, post-surgery pain, and diabetic neuropathy. Severity of pain can range from a constant nuisance to so painful that simply wearing a sock can be excruciating.

The good news for chronic pain sufferers is that our understanding of these pain conditions has advanced dramatically in recent years and substantial research has produced some incredible treatments capable of providing long-lasting, highly effective relief.

Pain Medications

When administered and managed responsibly, pain medications can help manage certain chronic pain conditions. Sometimes, over-the-counter medications can be enough, while in more severe or unusual cases, prescription pain medications may be recommended.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy involves performing low-impact exercises, stretches, and specific movements to increase strength and improve mobility throughout the body.

This enhanced strength and overall functionality allows your body to cope with physical stressors more effectively and can result in pain relief, especially

when paired with other services. Physical Therapy is unique in that it can be completed in-office or virtually.

Injections

Many chronic pain conditions can be successfully treated with injections. A medication containing a numbing agent (anesthetic), an anti-inflammatory (steroid), or a combination of both, is injected near the nerve, joint, or tissue causing the pain. The medication bathes the affected area, reducing symptoms and relieving pain.

Injections are brief, outpatient procedures that can provide several months of pain relief.

Radiofrequency Ablation

During a radiofrequency ablation procedure, the painful nerves are ablated (burned) using heat generated by radio waves. Special, hollow needles are placed at the site of the nerve and thin electrodes are inserted through the needles. A special machine generates radio wave energy, and the electrodes deliver it to the nerve(s), ablating them. This breaks up the pain signals coming from these nerves, providing relief. Nerve ablation is a brief, outpatient procedure that requires minimal recovery time and generally provides between 6 and 12 months of pain relief.

Intrathecal Pain Pump

An intrathecal pump is an implanted device that automatically introduces medication directly into the body's cerebrospinal fluid. This direct infusion bypasses natural process in the body that may stop other kinds of medication from passing into the brain. As a result, intrathecal administration can offer fast and effective results while reducing the negative side effects commonly associated with oral pain medications.

Spinal cord stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation is an advanced pain treatment that uses electricity to block pain signals.

A small battery is implanted in the lower back and connected to thin leads that are placed next to the painful nerves. The battery generates mild electric pulses, which the leads deliver to the nerves, "stimulating" them. This electrical stimulation blocks pain signals before they reach the brain, resulting in significant pain relief.

Spinal cord stimulation is a minimally invasive, outpatient surgical procedure that can provide many years of effective pain relief.

Relieve Your Pain, Renew Your Life

Chronic pain can be an exhausting, debilitating condition. But now more than ever, pain sufferers have ample opportunity to achieve a better quality of life. If you or someone you know suffers from chronic pain, schedule an appointment with your local pain clinic and learn how they can help you get back to being your very best YOU!

Contributed by Twin Cities Pain Clinic.

Ski Otters 2nd at regional tourney, individual skiers top at Nationals

The Midwest Ski Otters secured a 2nd place finish at the Midwest Regional Tournament held in Waterloo, Iowa. The Ski Otters also boasted individual participants who also placed in the individual competition.

In the strap doubles category, Ryan Hoops & Sarah Yost achieved 1st place, while Andrew Miller & Blair Smith finished 6th.  In the swivel open competition, Caroline Grubs secured 1st place, Brooke Elfert took 4th, Ally Nelson 6th, Kara Woodsen 8th, and Esther Smith 13th.

In the swivel 180 division, Blair Smith earned 5th place and Mallory Hoops finished 12th. In the freestyle intermediate jump category, Andrew Miller secured 1st place and Brody Lerdon 4th. The Ski Otter jump team earned 5th place in the tournament.

Individual skiers Grubs, Ryan Hoops,Yost, Elfert and Smith advanced to Division 1 Nationals, held in Warsaw, Indiana. Hoops and Yost placed 1st in strap doubles. Grubs placed 2nd in swivel, narrowly missing 1st place by 2/10 point. Elfert and Esther Smith placed 5th in swivel pairs.

Next up is Team USA tryouts, which are invitation-only. Grubs, Hoops, and Yost have been invited to participate.

HAIL AND STORM DAMAGE?

Ryan Hoops and Sarah Yost placed 1st in Strap Doubles at the Midwest regional Tournament (above), and 1st at the Division 1 Nationals.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Caroline Grubs placed 1st in the Swivel Open competion at regionals and 2nd at Nationals.