Vadnais Heights Press

‘Bring it Home’ gala to raise money for homeless

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

Solid Ground's premiere fundraiser this year is the Bring it Home Gala. The event will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6, at the North Oaks Gold Club, 54 East Oaks Road in North Oaks.

“The focus of the gala is to raise awareness and funds for Solid Ground’s permanent supportive housing projects (PSH),” said Andrée Aronson, director of advancement. “PSH is a proven best practice to ending homelessness for people with disabilities and other challenges. Last year, we raised $231,000 at our gala.”

The gala will have over 25 baskets in a silent auction, desserts from cakes and pies from local bakeries, a wine toss, a live auction and a raffle for Thurston Jewelers’ 14-carat yellow gold diamond stud earrings, donated by Thurston Jewelers.

Live auction items are as follows:

• Vikings-Packers game New Year’s Eve extrava-

ganza — The Rihm Family Companies has donated its Minnesota Vikings box for 10 “Private Box in Purple Club” tickets, including two VIP parking passes in the garage connected to U.S. Bank Stadium via skyway at 7:20 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31.

• Ken Galloway, a local gourmet cook with a true passion for food and wine, will prepare a threecourse custom dinner party menu with two appetizers and wine pairings in your home for up to eight guests.

• Summertime in the Rockies — One-week stay in Vail, Colorado. Indulge in your dream getaway at Lion Square Lodge at the Gondola. The package also includes a $500 gift card toward the airline of your choice.

• Willamette Valley Wine Tour and Allison Inn & Spa two-day stay in Oregon. While in the Willamette Valley, plan a two-day travel by limousine to excursions in the Dundee Hills and the Ribbon

SEE GALA, PAGE 14A

School resource officer program pulled from White Bear schools

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

The White Bear Lake Area School District is suspending its school resource officer (SRO) program in secondary schools.

White Bear Lake Chief of Police Dale Hager said the police department has a long and successful history of working collaboratively with the White Bear Lake Area Schools to uphold a safe environment for students, teachers, staff, parents and other stakeholders in the community by contractually providing school resource officer services and special event policing services.

“The city of White Bear Lake has fully supported having officers in our schools,” Hager wrote in a media release. “While our school resource officers will not be working under contract, we are committed to working closely with our school district. Therefore, during school hours, police officers will respond to school district-related calls and

will be encouraged to conduct regular walkthroughs at schools daily, as often as our call-load permits.”

According to a statement from the school district, the decision was made due to a new law passed by the 2023 Legislature that placed certain restrictions on safety interventions school employees and agents, including SROs, can use when intervening with students. Law enforcement agencies consider these new rules a risk to officer safety and legal liability for officers and organizations.

Although the SRO program will not be in effect, the district will continue to partner with the White Bear Lake Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to maintain school safety. It appreciates the long history of local law enforcement agencies working in partnership to build relationships, prevent incidents

SEE SRO, PAGE 7A

CONTRIBUTED

(From left) Rob Thomas, who will be the MC for the gala and Sarah Meeks, Solid Ground board member.

BEST RATE OF THE DAY

Take

Interest rates are consistently changing, so to ensure we’re always offering our best CD rates, each morning we will publish our “Best Rate of the Day.”

Exploring the great outdoors

Vadnais Heights Elementary fifth graders and experts from Tamarack Nature Center explore the Bears Backyard Classroom and use clues found in nature to determine how many different types of plants, insects and animals call their outdoor classroom home.

Preliminary property tax levy not as painful this year

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP — Township residents should be pleased to learn staff members have whittled the 2024 budget down to a number that requires only a slight property tax levy increase.

And the number may go down even more.

Residents approved a preliminary levy of $5.9 million back in March, but as staff adjusted line item budgets over the last few months, the figure has dropped to $5.7 million. The result, according to Finance Director Tom Kelly, is a 2024 preliminary levy that is 5.86% higher than the 2023 final tax levy. Property taxes account for $4.85 million of the levy. Fiscal disparities from the county and the debt levy account for the rest.

The above-mentioned budget adjustments include decreases in general government costs, $49,000; public works, $58,000; a $62,700 reduction in personnel costs through adjustments for retirements and new hires and a debt levy decrease.

Supervisor Scott McCune called the small levy increase “a big, dang deal.”

“This is less than a 6% tax levy compared to last year, yet all of the main expenses are being fully funded: infrastructure, road projects, equipment and quality-of-life stuff,” McCune said. “And we are taking into account some hefty charges from vendors we contract

with, such as the Ramsey County sheriff and White Bear Lake fire. Some of these entities have passed along substantial increases, and we’ve been able to incorporate those into our budget. I think prudent financial management the last few years has made sure funds are available to address issues as they arise.”

The town board member reminded residents that the levy is not final and “there are still opportunities to whittle this down.” Town Administrator Patrick Christopherson chimed in, “and staff will do so,” as McCune made his point at the Sept. 18 board meeting.

The contract with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department will cost $1,423,455 in 2024, about a 13% increase. The fire budget is proposed to jump by 61%, a $274,400 increase.

Police and fire account for 34% of the town’s operating budget.

Three outstanding bonds, from 2019, 2020 and 2021, will not need property tax proceeds to make payments. It was thought the town would need to levy $587,150 in property taxes in 2024 for the debt; however, Kelly said the town does not need to levy for a portion of the bond payments that are paid by the water, sewer and stormwater funds.

According to Kelly, the debt levy was reduced by about $120,000, or $467,500 for 2024.

Also noted in his memo to the board: The town’s median-valued home is now estimated at $361,650, an

Dozen bus station locations get 2nd look

ST. PAUL — After months of public engagement, the Purple Line Bus Rapid Transit project is advancing 12 station locations for further evaluation.

According to a Metropolitan Council press release, many community members supported the proposed locations and 63% of peo-

ple surveyed wanted to prioritize faster service, rather than more stations.

At its recent meeting, the Corridor Management Committee (CMC) concurred with staff to advance the Purple Line station locations along White Bear and Maryland Avenues for further technical study.

Dorothy and Joel are officially retired

We would like to thank the White Bear Community for the years of support and the many friendships that were formed.

The goldsmiths and craftsmen you have learned to trust are going to continue to carry on the repairs, custom designs and special orders. We still have a selection of beautiful jewelry remaining for sale.

In the meantime, many of our window displays, cases and more will be offered for purchase. Items will be added to the sale as we clean through the store.

Again, we thank you all for your patronage."

Thanks!

Dorothy and Joel Sherburne Graduate Gemologist G.I.A.

651-653-5024

increase of 4.5%, and will pay $929 in town property taxes compared to $885 on a median value of $346,150 in 2023.

The preliminary property tax levy, which must be certified to the county by Sept. 29, can be reduced before final adoption in December, but not increased. Residents will approve a final levy at a special town budget meeting Dec. 5.

Town Chair Ed Prudhon echoed McCune’s comments, saying, “kudos to our staff. They’ve been working hard to get this number down. This is something we can be proud of.”

The number of stations and station platform locations will not be finalized until the CMD makes a recommendation on a preferred roadway and transit design concept, currently anticipated for March 2024.

September

•

•

•

Lots

Metropolitan Council

The good, the bad and the Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings have an ugly start to the season at 0-3. So, here we go again. After last season's great start, we are now facing an uphill battle. Yes, I am the forever optimist when it comes to the Vikings, but I feel a sense of “what the heck is going on here?” Quarterback Kirk Cousins is having a great year as far as passing yardage, but the man gets mediocre protection from the offensive line. I've never seen a quarterback get nailed so many times. He's not the scrambler Fran Tarkenton was but it wouldn't hurt if he could get the ball out quicker or run for a touchdown in the red zone when he can. And I think he's missed those opportunities a few times.

Noelle’s Notes

Noelle Olson

Don't get me wrong, I think Cousins is a great quarterback and doesn't deserve the flack he gets from the national sports media or certain Vikings fans. But people are sheep and believe the “experts” on TV. As far as I see, they are not any more of an expert than me or a lot of the fans I know.

I often wonder how Cousins deals with criticism every week. I know he is a devout Christian, an elite quarterback and is mentally tough. It doesn't matter if the team is winning or not. No matter how he plays, it never seems good enough for certain fans and the national sports media. He just can't seem to do what “people” think he should be doing. People should remember that football is a team sport. I won't talk about the defense or fumbles in the last three games. Pro football players are human beings and probably don't (or should) cater to people's fantasy football teams.

For all of you Minnesota Vikings fans, I empathize. I am with you and I get it. I often wonder how I keep cheering for the team when every year is a disappointment. I know it's hard to win games when there is parity. But it is fair (unless you count the horrible referring throughout the league here and there). But one of the reasons that I love watching the Vikings (or other NFL games) is it is a rollercoaster of a ride. The ups and downs make me feel alive. One minute you think you're team is getting an interception and within seconds, it turns into a touchdown. It really proves that football imitates life in so many ways. And yes, I do consider the Vikings “my team” if you know what I mean.

Taylor Swift

As you might have guessed, I have been a NFL football fan for many years. At the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Chicago Bears game on Sunday, I saw Taylor Swift in Chief's tight end Travis Kelce's suite. Apparently, he invited her to a game after he went to her concert at Arrowhead Stadium.

I remember seeing Swift at the Minnesota State Fair in the beginning of her career. Back then she was a country star and opened for Brad Paisley. She was only 17 or 18 years old at the time and was a great entertainer. I told my sisters during the concert that she was going to be a big star someday. (especially after her 1989 vault song was released).

The one thing I remember vividly from that concert is her saying, “If you're in a relationship with me and break my heart, I will write a song about you.” I tend to believe her since a lot of her songs are about her relationships and I can't wait to hear what she writes about the Kanas City tight end.

Noelle Olson is the editor of the White Bear Press. She can be reached at 651-407-1229 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

Head injuries and how to protect young athletes

There was a time when “toughing it out” after an injury on the field was considered admirable. Today we know better.

The Minnesota Department of Health conducted a study using a sampling of only 39 public high schools in Minnesota (8% of Minnesota’s high schools) which reported 704 sports-related concussions. While the concussions ranged from mild to severe, the point is, that each one is considered a brain injury, and that’s serious business. Also serious are the laws in place when it comes to concussions.

Minnesota Statute 121A.38 states that coaches or school officials should remove a youth athlete from participating in any athletic activity when the athlete shows signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion or is suspected of sustaining a concussion.

The statute also indicates that when an athlete is removed from participating in sports due to a concussion, they may not return to play until they:

• No longer show signs, symptoms

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

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

Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $45 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

or behaviors consistent with concussion.

• Are evaluated by a health care provider trained and experienced in evaluating and managing concussions, and the provider gives the athlete written permission to resume participation.

As local football, soccer, cheerleading and lacrosse teams begin practice and games, it is important athletes, parents and coaches know basic and important information about head injuries. Sometimes the signs of a concussion are obvious; the patient is unconscious or acting “out of it” immediately after a head injury. However, signs and symptoms may be subtle are not always immediate. That’s why it is so important to understand what to look for after a head injury and when it is more than just a “bump on the head.”

Concussion can cause loss of consciousness but many people with a concussion never lose consciousness.

The most important thing to know if a young athlete has sustained a blow to the head is to seek medical attention, especially if you are noticing any concussion symptoms. For each patient with a head injury, in addition to evaluating for concussion, providers do an assessment for serious head injuries such as bleeding in the brain or skull fractures. For many patients a history and physical exam is all that is needed but some injuries are

worrisome enough to require imaging of the brain and skull using CT scan. CT scan is the test of choice to evaluate for bleeding in the brain or skull fracture.

If a concussion is diagnosed, the key to recovering from head trauma is rest. For young athletes sustaining a concussion, it is important to stop play and sit it out, immediately. Athletes and children should be closely monitored by coaches upon resuming play.

Keep in mind, repeat concussions cause cumulative effects on the brain. Sustaining a second concussion before recovering completely from the initial concussion is especially dangerous. Successive concussions can have devastating consequences such as permanent brain damage, difficulties with memory or other long-term disabilities.

Prevention is key to protecting yourself from serious head injuries. When necessary, wear a helmet especially in sports like football, hockey, soccer and while up at bat in softball or baseball. These are instances when a tackle or pitch can cause irreversible damage to an athlete who isn’t wearing head protection.

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.

Dr. Craig Matticks is the Medical Director of The Urgency Room in Vadnais Heights

Mover’s & Shakers

Dr. Craig Matticks

BUSINESS BRIEF

Can Minnesota's foreign trade zones help your bottom line?

Are tariffs and duties for your global business a significant drain on your bottom line?

A foreign trade zone designation may be the answer to serious savings.

The Washington County Community Development Agency and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development are ready to help explore the benefits and cost savings offered by foreign trade zones (FTZs) through a virtual workshop from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Whether importer, exporter, merchandise processing, warehouse or manufacturer — however you work in the global economy — you may be paying significant tariff, duties or processing fees. Foreign trade zones are designed to help global companies that have more than $2 million in revenue potentially realize hundreds of thousands or more in savings.

The virtual information session “Foreign Trade Zones: Possibly the best tax incentive you’ve never heard of” is provided at no cost.

This session features Marshall Miller, president of Miller & Company, a renowned expert in strategies and techniques for importing and exporting and special customs procedures, including analysis of benefits and establishment of U.S. foreign trade zones. The session will help you learn the benefits of FTZs, such as how to defer and reduce duty payments, how to store imported goods and export without incurring duties, and much more. See mn.gov/ deed and search “Minnesota Foreign Trade Zones”.

READ REUSE RECYCLE

If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet.

651-407-1200 presspubs.com

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Pumpkin patch comes to Christ the Lutheran Church

Hundreds of pumpkins are available at a patch outside Christ the Lutheran Church in Vadnais Heights. The pumpkin patch is open weekdays from 2 p.m. to dusk and weekends from 10 a.m. to dusk through Oct. 31. Proceeds go toward youth ministry.

Hugo Volkswagen burns rubber at car show

Despite

SCHOOL BRIEFS

Art student achievement

White Bear Lake Area High School

senior Mia Binsfeld recently learned she is one of only 308 students in the world to earn every point possible on the AP Drawing Exam, receiving the maximum score on each portion of the exam for a highest possible score of 5. Binsfeld has received numerous art-related awards during her time in White Bear Lake Area Schools.

Hall of Fame induction

During halftime of the varsity football game at South Campus on Friday, Sept. 29, two new members will be inducted in the White Bear Lake Athletic Hall of Fame.

Construction update on safety and security

Safety upgrades were a focus of the facilities work made possible by the bond referendum, approved by the community in 2019, and of the capital projects levy

Commerce Fraud Bureau investigation leads to charges against Vadnais Heights insurance broker

A former Vadnais Heights insurance broker has been charged with fraud after an investigation by the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau found evidence he invented customers and faked Social Security numbers to earn nearly $650,000 in improper commissions.

The charges, filed this month in Ramsey County District Court, allege that Kevin Anthony Meyers, 48, of Blaine, submitted hundreds of policy applications from fictitious customers while working for Cigna Corp. from 2018 to 2020. Under the terms of his employment, Meyers was eligible for commissions even before customers paid premiums. The Commerce Fraud Bureau investigation found that 401 life insurance policies he claimed to have sold from May 2018 to June 2019 never generated a premium payment to Cigna. Some of the Social Security numbers on the

approved in 2022. Using these funding sources, the district has been able to implement a variety of safety and security upgrades throughout the district in recent years.

A visible change is that construction projects is that each of the district’s buildings now have secure entrances through which visitors are allowed into district buildings only after they have been welcomed at the front office of the building and have checked in. A new visitor management process implemented in all of the buildings this fall is a proactive step that has been taken to identify and allow for better screening of building visitors. Visitors now sign in digitally using an ID and receive a printed badge listing their name, date, reason for visit and a photo. This allows staff and students to quickly identify whether someone belongs in the building. There are also options to check in those who do not have a government-issued ID. This process allows the district to better screen for individuals who may have limited or no custodial rights, individuals who have been trespassed due to conduct and those who are publicly registered as offenders.

policies did not exist or belonged to people who had died.

The charges say Meyers used the fraudulent commission payments to buy cars, airline tickets, and for shopping. His bank records show he paid $76,000 to a Jaguar Land Rover dealer and withdrew more than $100,000 in cash. Under terms of a civil consent order filed by Commerce in March, Meyers must repay $648,000 to Cigna within five years. The Department of Commerce, which licenses insurance brokers in Minnesota, revoked his insurance license retroactively and imposed a civil penalty of $100,000, which will be waived when he repays Cigna.

“Commerce’s mission is to protect the interests of Minnesotans and to ensure a fair and equitable marketplace in our state,” said Jacqueline Olson, Assistant Commissioner for Enforcement at the Commerce Department. “That includes thoroughly investigating any allegations of insurance fraud, which harms both consumers and businesses. I’m proud of the work the Commerce Fraud Bureau did on this case.”

Some of his supposed customers told investigators

Advanced security and video surveillance systems have been added in buildings throughout the district as well. These systems allow staff to monitor whether doors are left ajar, and serve as a powerful tool to building administrators who are investigating situations to find resolution. The system allows the district flexibility to be proactive and adaptable as it monitors what is happening at district buildings.

The district has also been able to increase emergency communication tools and capabilities for staff members with new technologies and upgraded processes. Two-way radio systems are being updated to allow for more consistent and clear communication at buildings as necessary. Updated public address systems, which are used for daily communication as well as emergency communications, have been installed at several buildings. Emergency services signal boosters have also been installed at several buildings to maintain the radio communications for first responders.

White Bear Lake Area Schools

they knew Meyers but had not purchased insurance from him. Meyers, whose office was in Vadnais Heights, also earned commissions after reporting sales to employees of a company called Synergy Benefits Solutions. Investigators determined that Meyers was the sole owner of Synergy.

“We are grateful for the hard work of the Minnesota Department of Commerce fraud investigators to bring this case forward to our office,” Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said. “The burden of this type of fraud is shouldered by the public through increases in insurance rates, and the law enforcement focus on uncovering this type of financial fraud is our priority.”

The charges against Meyers include six felony counts of fraud, theft by swindle and identity theft. The most serious counts carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $100,000. Meyers’ first appearance in Ramsey County District Court is set for Oct. 10.

Minnesota Department of Commerce

a not-so-great forecast approximately 200 cars still showed up to support Wishes & More at the 15th annual Withrow Car & Tractor Show in Withrow. Best in show went to a 1973 Volkswagen Kombi named Bernice from Hugo.

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

• Officers located a vehicle parked the wrong way on the roadway Sept. 13 in the block of White Bear Parkway. The female driver was found sleeping in the driver's seat. She was found to be impaired by alcohol and performed poorly on field sobriety tests and an evidentiary breath sample of a 0.19 BrAC. She was booked at the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center on 2nd Degree DWI charges.

• A resident in the 2300 block of Dorothy Avenue reported Sept. 13 that on or around Aug. 28 they were scammed out of more than $170,000 via sophisticated computer and phone fraud. The unidentified suspect pretended to be a federal agent.

• A report of a hit and run at the intersection of County Road E and Highway 61 on Sept. 13. Upon investigation, the other driver was identified and cited for hit and run and failure to drive with due care.

• An officer took a report of an attempted theft Sept. 14 in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road.

• An officer located graffiti in the park bathrooms Sept. 13 in the 1800 block of Florence Street. No suspect information at this time. Loss of an estimated $250.

• An officer took a theft report Sept. 13 in the 3600 block of White Bear Avenue.

• Officers responded to a report of shots fired Sept. 14 in the 3600 block of Highland Avenue.

• Officers responded to a disorderly conduct event Sept. 14 in the 2100 block of Division Court.

• Two bicycles were reported stolen Sept. 14 in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road. Unknown suspect(s).

• Officers responded to a disorderly conduct call Sept. 14 in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road.

• Officers responded to a multiple reports of fireworks Sept. 15 in the 2500 block of Sky Blue Court.

• Officers responded to a multiple reports of fireworks Sept. 15 in the 2500 block of Sky Blue Court.

• Fraud was reported Sept. 17 in the 2000 block of Spruce Place.

• Theft was reported at a storage business Sept. 17 in the 1800 block

of Buerkle Road. $3,250 worth of equipment was stolen from a boat parked in the lot sometime in the last 2 weeks.

• Officers received a call of a drunk driver near Highway 96 and Greenhaven Drive Sept. 17. Officers later located the vehicle in the 4600 block of Burson Avenue and found the male driver, of White Bear Lake, to be impaired by alcohol. The driver performed poorly on field sobriety testing and was taken into custody. He provided an evidentiary sample of a 0.13 BrAC and was booked at the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center on 4th Degree DWI charges.

• A theft from auto was reported Sept. 18 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue North. Between damage and the theft, it is an estimated $1,000 loss.

• Officers were dispatched to a theft from auto Sept. 18 in the 2000 block of Dotte Drive. A vehicle window was broken and several items were stolen. Approximate loss of $350.

• Officers responded to report of an assault Sept. 18 in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road. Investigation ongoing.

• A male was cited Sept. 18 in the 1900 Block of Buerkle Road for exposing himself to others.

• Officers responded to a burglary Sept. 18 in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road resulting in a $2,500 loss.

• A domestic assault was reported Sept. 18 in the 5000 block of Campanaro Lane. A White Bear Lake man was arrested for felony domestic assault and booked at the Ramsey County Jail. Minor injuries were reported.

• An attempted theft from liquor store was reported Sept. 19 on Beurkle Road. The man was cited and trespassed from business.

• An officer took a theft report Sept. 19 in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road.

• An officer took report of a theft Sept. 19 in the 2600 block of County Road E. Loss of $62.44.

• An officer took a theft report Sept. 19 in the 4700 block of Highway 61. The business had an approximate loss of $320.

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• A Blaine woman reported her vehicle stolen for a second time on Aug. 18, after she dropped off her recovered stolen vehicle at a dealership for repairs in the 3300 block of Highway 61. The owner called the dealership to check on her vehicle's status and found that employees could not locate it. A Keep Our Police Safe (KOPS) alert was issued.

• A mobility walker was reported stolen from its fixture at the rear of a vehicle parked in the 4200 block of Centerville Road overnight Aug. 18-19.

• Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies assisted another law enforcement agency at 5:10 p.m. Aug. 19 with the use of a K-9 officer to track a stolen vehicle that had fled state troopers in the area of Suzanne Court. K-9 officers found a jacket near Rice Street and I-694, but did not locate any suspects.

• Fresh Thyme in the 900 block of County Road E reported two counterfeit $100 bills accepted for purchase Aug. 19. The phony bills were turned over to the U.S. Secret Service.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 38, was arrested at 8:29 p.m. Aug. 19 in the 500 block of Westfield Lane for misdemeanor domestic assault, and his case turned over to the city attorney for review.

• A Lakeville woman reported hit-and-run to her vehicle Aug. 20 in the 1100 block of County Road

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

• An Oakridge Drive resident reported fraud occurring through a Target ship order, which was canceled Aug. 22.

Dellwood

• A dog fight, eventually broken up by a male, was reported Aug. 18 on Apple Orchard Road.

Grant

• A parked vehicle received a citation under the driver's side windshield wipers Aug. 19 after its driver left it parked between the “no parking” signs in the 9000 block of Jeffrey Blvd.

• Three of the eight stop signs at the intersection of Jamaca Avenue and Dellwood Road N. were reported missing Aug. 22. The nearest public works department was advised.

• A pickup truck owner reported his rear topper window broken Aug. 22 in the 6000 block of Jasmine Avenue N.

Mahtomedi

• Juveniles playing ding-dong-ditch were reported during the afternoon of Aug. 17 on Lincolntown Avenue and Old Wildwood Road. Deputies caught up with the youths and advised them that kind of activity was not allowed. Later that evening, a resident on Dahlia Street reported

that kids had dingdong-ditched his home and had thrown an unknown object at his house, damaging the siding.

• Property damage was reported Aug. 18 on Long Lake Road.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Century Avenue and Woodland Drive to arrest the registered owner on a warrant Aug. 18, but did not take the driver into custody due to medical circumstances.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited Aug. 18 on Mahtomedi Avenue and Hickory Street for failure to present a valid driver's license or proof of insurance.

• An unidentified motorist was arrested for DWI at 10:44 p.m. Aug. 18 on Long Lake Road after deputies responded to a motor vehicle accident.

• A motorist was cited Aug. 21 in the 200 block of Briarwood Avenue for stop sign violation and failure to provide valid proof of insurance following a traffic stop for running the stop sign.

• Deputies cited a driver Aug. 23 on Stillwater Road and Hallam Avenue S. for driving after revocation, failure to wear a seatbelt and displaying expired registration stickers.

• Two vehicle owners received citations Aug. 23 in the 1000 block of Park Avenue for parking violations.

Due to congestion on the narrow streets near the lake in the Historic District, the city of Mahtomedi has recently created new no-park-

ing zones to provide passage for fire department equipment in the event of an emergency.

• An unidentified individual was arrested on a warrant at 2:33 a.m. Aug. 24 in Wildwood Park on Lincolntown Avenue after deputies on night patrol observed a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot after hours. While deputies were speaking to the three people on scene, they discovered one of them had outstanding warrants.

• Pine Street residents reported a reclining rocking chair dumped in front of their address Aug. 24. The Mahtomedi Public Works Department was advised of the situation.

• Owners of a duplex in the 1000 block of Mahtomedi Avenue reported their renter for not allowing them inside the unit on Aug. 24 to conduct required periodic inspections of the smoke detectors and furnace filter. Deputies provided the complainant with the necessary paperwork to move forward.

Pine Springs

• An “expired” motorist was cited at 11:34 p.m. Aug. 24 on westbound Highway 36 at the Hilton Trail overpass for expired registration, following a traffic stop for the tardy tabs. During the stop, deputies also discovered the driver didn't have current proof of insurance and had an expired driver's license.

Loretta Harding

E, after a truck pulling a trailer struck her parked vehicle and knocked off its front bumper.

• A North St. Paul woman, 23, was arrested at midnight Aug. 21 in the 1000 block of County Road D for domestic assault, after deputies were dispatched to a report of a fight involving a weapon in the parking lot of an apartment building. The firearm was found and transported to the patrol station to be entered into evidence.

• A Maplewood woman reported losing $750 to a scam Aug. 21, after she was about to purchase more gift cards at the Walgreen's in the 800 block of County Road E and realized she was being scammed. The victim had originally misplaced her work iPhone and had located a phone number on the internet to help locate the missing phone. A scammer posing as an Apple employee “helped” the victim by persuading her to purchase gift cards at the Maplewood Walgreen's and CVS.

• A Wyoming man reported hit-and-run to his vehicle in a parking lot in the 1100 block of County Road E Aug. 21, after a white Nissan SUV backed into the driver's side door of his vehicle before leaving the lot. The collision left the door inoperable.

• Jumper cables were reported stolen overnight Aug. 21-22 from the trunk of a vehicle parked in the 100 block of Star Circle. There are no suspects.

• A St. Paul man, 56, was arrested on a felony warrant at 10:06 Aug. 22 in the 800 block of Highway 96 after deputies responded to a report of a suspicious male near Pleasant Lake Road and Highway 96 and

conducted a traffic stop.

• A White Bear Township woman reported a hit-andrun accident in a business parking lot in the 800 block of County Road E Aug. 22.

• Deputies responded to a disorderly conduct call Aug. 23 in the 3400 block of Highway 61, following a disagreement between two employees.

White Bear Township

• Deputies en route to a medical call at 6:17 p.m. Aug. 20 struck a pigeon in the 5200 block of Bald Eagle Blvd., causing damage to their squad. The sergeant was notified and the appropriate reports completed.

• An abandoned moped was reported found at 6:49 a.m. Aug. 21 behind the post office in the 1000 block of Highway 96. After attempts to contact the registered owner were unsuccessful, the vehicle was towed.

• On Aug. 23, deputies found clothing in a returned stolen vehicle that had not been thoroughly searched by the Minneapolis Police Department and brought to the 2200 block of Buffalo Street. The clothing was collected and placed into the evidence locker.

• A Circle Pines woman reported her credit and debit cards stolen during a theft from auto incident in Lino Lakes. The cards were used at the Vadnais Heights Walmart in the 800 block of County Road E on Aug. 24. Video surveillance evidence was collected and will be used in the upcoming investigation.

Noelle Olson

SRO: Program suspended, hope for future

FROM PAGE 1A

wherever possible and ensure student and staff safety at school.

“Both the White Bear Lake Police Department and White Bear Lake Area Schools are disappointed that it came to this, but we understand the position that our police department has taken and support the decision,” said Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak, superintendent. “This is the last thing either of us wanted to see happen. We have had a strong partnership for more than two decades and this law change has put us in this position.”

The statement from the school district also says the first priority of the district is to ensure the safety of students and staff trusted in its care. Safety upgrades were a focus of the facilities work made possible by the 2019 bond referendum, which has allowed the district to implement a variety of upgrades districtwide.

These safety upgrades include the following:

• The addition of secure entrances at all of the district’s buildings.

• Advanced security and video surveillance systems and increased emergency communication tools and capabilities for staff members.

• The new visitor sign-in process implemented in all of the district’s buildings this fall is another proactive step that has been taken to identify and

allow for better screening of building visitors.

“For the remainder of the football season, we will continue to provide officers at White Bear Lake home football games to help school district staff in providing a safe environment for all,” Hager wrote. “These specialty officers will not be contracted agents of the school district; rather, they will be provided at the expense of the city of White Bear Lake.”

Hager also stated he hopes the police department is able to reinstate the SRO agreement and looks forward to a resolution by the Legislature.

“We want to maintain our existing partnership with the White Bear Lake Police Department and keep SROs in our schools,” Kazmierczak said. “The meeting held earlier this week between the governor, legislative leaders and representatives from the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association and the resulting attorney general opinion gives us some hope that we can get our SROs back in school very soon, but at the time of this interview, that remains uncertain.”

Noelle Olson is the editor of the White Bear Press. She can be reached at whitebearnews@presspubs.com or 651407-1229.

White Bear Lake Area

WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD NOTES

• The White Bear Area School District is working on expanding mental health services. A mental health professional and practitioner partner with school staff in formulating goals with the student and their family. On-site services increase access to education, reduce transportation barriers and provide coordination of support. Ramsey County school resource navigators are comprised of multilingual staff dedicated to assisting students and families in navigating mental health resources, housing, utility assistance, food resources, health insurance and more. The support hub serves as a place for families and the community to access the information they may need for essential services including — important information regarding crisis services, basic needs, mental health and well-being, physical health, social-emotional learning and more. People can go to the support hub on the district's website at https:// www.isd624.org/departments/ student-support-services/supporthub.

• Brenton Shavers, director of educational equity and achievement said the department is defining the difference between equity and educational equity. “When we talk about educational equity, we're

really looking at how do we provide high quality pedagogy, social and emotional learning, cultural competence and family partnerships which is the core of what we are doing in our department,” Shavers said. “It all centers around family engagement and this includes all students within our district, LGBTQ+, gender identities, special education, deaf, hard of hearing, sight and physical impairments, etc.”

• School Board Member Scott Arcand commented on the evaluation of Superintendent Dr. Wayne Kameriziak. “He continues to meet expectations of the School Board in areas of leadership for continuous improvement of student achievement communications, stakeholder involvement, fiscal responsibility, school facilities and policy implementation and development.,” Arcand said. Kazmeriziak and the School Board have established the following priorities for the 2023-24 school year — teaching plan implementation, educational equity and achievement, academic achievement, change leadership and management, fiscal management and facilities plan improvement.

Noelle Olson

Service times are subject to change during the coronavirus crisis. Contact your local church or check church web sites for service time and online service information.

8A VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

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: Hidden Magic Studio

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1548 Huron Street Saint Paul, MN 55108

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.

Nancy McGinley Myers

1548 Huron Street Saint Paul, MN 55108

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

Dated: January 20, 2023

Signed: Nancy McGinley Myers

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 27 and October 4, 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: Hidden Magic Tarot

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1548 Huron Street Saint Paul, MN 55108

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. Nancy McGinley Myers

1548 Huron Street Saint Paul, MN 55108

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: September 7, 2023

Signed: Nancy McGinley Myers

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 27 and October 4, 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: Kelly Gerald Photography

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 4309 Greenhaven Ct, Vadnais Heights MN 55127

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. Kelly A Martinez 4309 Greenhaven Ct, Vadnais Heights MN 55127

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 18, 2023

Signed: Kelly Martinez

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 27 and October 4, 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: Accomplished Tutoring

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

982 Margaret St. St. Paul, MN 55106 USA

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

Chloe Moriarty

982 Margaret St. St. Paul, MN 55106 USA

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

Dated: July 28, 2023

Signed: Chloe Moriarty

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 20 and September 27, 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:

NorthBuilt Software Development

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

Unit 500, 428 Minnesota St. St. Paul, MN 55101 USA

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

Craft Codery, LLC

Unit 500, 428 Minnesota St. St. Paul, MN 55101 USA

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

Dated: July 24, 2023

Signed: Chris Morbitzer

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 20 and September 27, 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:

ReSource

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 202 N Cedar Ave STE #1 Owatonna, MN 55060

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. Kyle Younker 202 N Cedar Ave STE #1 Owatonna, MN 55060

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: September 11, 2023

Signed: Kyle Younker

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 20 and 27, 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:

Rome Consulting

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 5167 Longview Dr. St. Paul, MN 55112 USA

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

Lakeview Guidance, LLC

5167 Longview Dr. St. Paul, MN 55112 USA

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

Dated: August 22, 2023

Signed: Patrick Rome

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 20 and September 27, 2023.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE

OF ORGANIZATION

I, Steve Simon, Secretary of State of Minnesota, do certify that: The following business entity 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.

Name: Villa Real Estate LLC

File Number: 1407528600031 Minnesota Statutes, Chapter: 322C

This certificate have been issued on: 09/07/2023

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 27 and October 4, 2023.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISSOLVE

Conduction Technologies, Inc., a Minnesota corporation, filed its Notice of Intent to Dissolve with the Minnesota Secretary of State on September 13, 2023 and is in the process of dissolving its corporate status in accordance with Minnesota law. Claims of all creditors of the corporation must be received, in writing, no later than December 27, 2023 at 10 Wildflower Place, North Oaks, MN 55127.

Published four times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 20, 27, October 4 and 11, 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

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 27, 2023.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER MINUTES SEPTEMBER 5, 2023

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

AGENDA of September 5, 2023 was presented for approval. Motion by Moran, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved.

MINUTES of August 22, 2023 were presented for approval. Motion by Moran, seconded by Ortega. Unanimously approved

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT – Read by Commissioner Moran.

PROCLAMATION

Workforce Solutions – Proclamation: Workforce Development Month. Presented by Commissioner Ortega.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

County Manager’s Office – Appointment to the Extension Committee. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-138)

County Manager’s Office –Appointments to the Capitol Region Watershed District Board of Managers. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt.

Unanimously approved. (B2023-139)

Finance – Appointments to the Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee for a term beginning September 5, 2023 and end August 30, 2025. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-140)

Parks & Recreation – Appointments to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-141)

Public Health – Appointments to the Community Health Services Advisory Committee for term beginning September 5, 2023 and ending June 26, 2025.

Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023142)

Human Resources – Appointment to Personnel Review Board. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-143)

Library – Amendments to Administrative Code – Library Department. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023144)

Workforce Solutions – Donation from Sundance Family Foundation to the Workforce Solutions Department. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-145)

Housing Stability -- Grant Agreement with Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for Homework Starts with Home Project. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-146)

Human Resources – Agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of MN for Employee and Early Retiree Medical Insurance. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-147)

Human Resources – Agreement with United Healthcare Insurance Company for Regular Retiree Medical Insurance. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-148)

Human Resources – Agreement with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company for Employee and Retiree Dental Insurance Plans. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-149)

Human Resources – Agreement with Vision Service Plan Insurance Company for Employee Voluntary Vision Insurance. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-150)

Housing Stability – Grant Agreement with the Minnesota Housing Finance for Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-151)

Transforming Systems Together – Grant Agreement with Youth Lens 360, LLC for the Guns for Cameras Program. Motion by Moran, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2023-152)

PRESENTATION

Finance – Presentation of Financial Update. For information only. Presented by Chief Finance Officer Alex Kotze. Discussion can be found on archived video COUNTY CONNECTIONS – Presented by Ryan O’Connor, County Manager. 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 Martinson declared the meeting adjourned at 10:24 a.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 27, 2023.

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-23-570

NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL)

Estate of:

Elizabeth Ann Pence, Decedent

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Probate Registrar. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following:

Megan K. Pence, 607 Pascal Street North, St. Paul, MN 55104 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 18, 2023

Attorney for Personal Representative:

Burns Hansen PA Trevor Oliver (#304888) 8401 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 300 Golden Valley, MN 55426 (952) 564-6262 trevor@burnshansen.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 20 and September 27, 2023.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY

SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT, DISTRICT COURT PROBATE DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-23-678

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

Estate of:

Gerald John Behan,

Decedent

Notice is given that an Amended Application filed on September 12, 2023 for informal probate of the Decedent’s will dated March 26, 1973 (“Will”), has been filed with the Registrar. The Amended Application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Registrar has informally appointed James Behan, whose address is 772 Oriole Lane, Hudson, Wisconsin, 54016 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 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 probate of the Will or 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 Minnesota Statutes section 524.3801) 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.

A charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceedings be given to the Attorney General pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 501B.41, subdivision 5.

BY THE COURT: Michael F. Upton, District Court Administrator

Laura J. Stevens, Registrar

Date: September 13, 2023

Attorney for Petitioner:

Philip E. Freeman (#0396028)

Freeman Law Firm PLC 4525 Allendale Drive, White Bear Lake, Minnesota 651-272-6043; phil@freemanplc.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 20 and September 27, 2023.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

'THE THREE MUSKETEERS'

When: through Oct. 1

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.

Details: Lakeshore Players' presents the story of adventure, unexpected heroes, and everlasting friendship. Ticket details online.

FALL FRIDAYS AT THE FILLEBROWN

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Sept. 29 Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave. Details: Take a selfguided tour of the 1879 lakeside cottage and enjoy refreshments on the porch. Contact: whitebearhistory. org

WHITE BEAR FARMERS MARKET

When: 8 a.m.-noon Fridays through Oct. 27.

Where: Clark Street between 2nd and 3rd Streets

Details: More than 50 vendors and growers each week.

Contact: whitebearlake.org

FREE PRODUCE MARKET

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Sept. 28

Where: White Bear Lake Senior Center, 2484 County Rd. F. East

Details: All are welcome to pick up free produce. Bring your own bag.

Contact: 651-407-5310 or whitebearfoodshelf.org

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 29

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

Details: M.E. Bakos will sign copies of her home renovator mysteries, including the latest 'Killer Flip', and Frank Weber will sign his book 'The Haunted House of Hillman.”

Contact: 651-426-0918

FALL FLEA MARKET

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30

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

Details: Over 20+ vendors on the parking lot and more inside. Baked good and food truck. Come as a shopper or register to be a vendor.

Contact: 651-653-3121

KIDZ N BIZ

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 30

Where: Oneka Elementary, 4888 Heritage Pkwy. N., Hugo

Details: Free community event connects local businesses and families and includes carnival-like activities, inflatables, face painting, demonstrations, prizes, food, and vendors.

Contact: https://mms.hugobusinesses.biz

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1

Where: Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Grant

Details: Hike the horse trail that parallels the Gateway Trail out and back. Treats follow at Wildwood Tavern.

Contact: stpaulhike.com

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Traveling performance explores hate crimes, homophopia

A five-month traveling educational series performed by actors from Northern Starz Center for the Performing Arts will make a stop at the White Bear Center for the Arts Oct. 5-7.

“The Laramie Project” is a play by Moisés Kaufman and the Tectonic Theatre Project in response to the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man, in Laramie, Wyoming. Kaufman and other company members visited the community and spoke with residents, friends and and those involved in the murder case to explore the possibility that theater, more than any other medium, would allow people to engage with and reflect on the issues brought to public attention by Matthew’s murder, such as homophobia, hatred, intolerance and fear.

The performance on Friday, Oct. 6, begins at 7 p.m. and includes a Q&A session with Dennis Shepherd, Matthew's father. Additional performances are at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, and 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7. Performances are suitable for those ages 14+. For ticket information, visit whitebeararts.org/

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

WHITE BEAR TOASTMASTERS OPEN HOUSE

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2

Where: White Bear Lake City Hall, 6701 Highway 61

Details: Learn to improve public speaking and build leadership skills.

Contact: toastmasters.org

SENIOR CENTER OPEN HOUSE

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Oct. 6

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

Details: Learn about weekly activities, Meals on Wheels, travel opportunities, screenings and foot care clinic. Visit with vendors and shop at the Craft Corner. Free.

ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE

When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: St. John in the Wilderness Church, 2175 1st St., White Bear Lake

Details: Annual rummage sale with $2 bags on Saturday.

GUIDED FILLEBROWN HOUSE TOUR

When: 10 and 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: 4735 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Tour the 1879 lakeside cottage and learn about the resort era in White Bear Lake. Tour approx. 1 hour. Registration required.

Contact: whitebearhistory.org

SHAPESHIFT DANCE COLLECTIVE

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: Fine Arts Center (Mahtomedi High School), 8000 75th St. N.

Details: An inspiring story through the captivating medium of theatrical dance combining hip-hop/contemporary movement and other dance styles, fused with old school music. See ticket information online. Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

PAT DONAHUE AND THE PRAIRIE ALL STARS

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.

Details: Guitarist for the "Guys All-Star Shoe Band" of Minnesota Public Radio's A Prairie Home Companion for 20 years plays blues, folk, rockabilly, and more.

Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

inspire_events/the-laramie-project-performances-at-wbca.

Get together with Zephyr families at fall event

The Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation is hosting a Zephyr Get Together from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, at Pine Tree Apple Orchard in Dellwood. The event is an opportunity to connect with other families in the district and enjoy food trucks, live music by the Bazillions, face painting, a corn maze, scavenger hunt and other activities. The event is free, but registration is required. Food is available for purchase. Go to maefgives.org for more information and to register.

Bridge to be unveiled at Avenue of the Arts

White Bear Center for the Arts, Children's Performing Arts, and Lakeshore Players are teaming up for a ribbon-cutting on Oct. 17 to unveil the new bridge connecting the WBCA to the Hanifl Performing Arts Center. The Art Bridge will make it easier for patrons to walk between the two facilities and create a physical connection along

the “Avenue of the Arts.”

The ribbon-cutting will begin at 4 p.m. followed by a name unveiling at 4:30 p.m. and a short reception until 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 651-407-0597.

Sing with Lake Country Chorus for the holidays

Lake Country Chorus, a women's four-part harmony singing group that has been in the White Bear Lake area for 50 years, is welcoming new women to perform with them at upcoming holiday concerts.

Rehearsals will be held for eight weeks from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays beginning Oct. 3 at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3770 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake. The rehearsals are in preparation for two concerts that will be performed in Roseville on Nov. 26 and Anoka on Nov. 28 along with male partner group North Star Chorus. Vocal training and training in the barbershop style are part of the experience, and no long-term commitment is required.

Register through White Bear Lake Community Education Adult Enrichment at whitebear.ce.eleyo. com.

CLASSES AT THE WB SENIOR CENTER REGISTRATION REQUIRED

55+ Defensive Driving Classes

4-Hr Refresher ($35): 10/3, 1-5pm Sr Ctr; 10/10, 5:30-9:30pm Online

8-Hr Class($45): 10/11 & 12, 1:30-5:30pm Online; 10/24 & 10/26, 5:30-9:30pm Online

Healthy Feet Happy Feet: Thu, 9/28, 10-11am, Free

History Class: Secret Service with Kathy Simmer: Fri, Sept 29, 10am12pm, $18

Wine Glass Painting: Mon, Oct 2, 5:30-7:30, $35

Bob Ross Oil Painting: The Cardinal: 10/11 5:30-9:30 pm $40 + supply fee

Nutrition for One (or 2!): Thu, Oct 12, 10am-12pm, $15

Travel Show: Fri, Oct 27, 9:30-11:30 am, Free

Flea Market: Sat, 9/30, 9am-2pm, Bakery & Food truck on site, Want to sell? 18’x18’ space / $20

WB Senior Center Open House: Fri, Oct 6, 10am-12pm, Free.

Learn about the 16 different weekly activities we offer, how to be paid for your crafts as a consignee, attend a diabetic shoe & mobility seminar, get your blood pressure taken, visit the Premier Travel booth as well as our local TRIAD group. Refreshments will be provided. Hot or Frozen meals delivered Monday-Friday.

If you are interested, know of someone who may need meals, or have questions, please call 651-653-3123. For more information or to receive “The Voice” newsletter, call us at

LYNGBLOMSTEN COMMUNITY SERVICES

Are you or someone you know supporting a spouse, partner, parent, friend, or neighbor with memory loss or a chronic condition and you’re looking for help in your caregiving role? Lyngblomsten Community Services is here to help you navigate your caregiving journey. Our trained staff have expertise working with individuals who have memory loss and their care partners, although all caregivers are welcome and encouraged to connect with us. Give us a call at (651)

632-5320 or email caregiving@lyngblomsten.org to learn more about the ways in which we can support you in your caregiving role.

The Gathering group respite meets Thursdays from 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM at St. John in the Wilderness Church in White Bear Lake. The Gathering provides brain-stimulating activities for adults living with memory loss and four hours of respite for their caregiver. To learn more or to be placed on our interest list, contact us at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org.

Lyngblomsten Community Services is supported, in part, by gifts made to the Lyngblomsten Foundation and is funded under an award with Trellis as part of the Older Americans Act.

MAHTOMEDI COMMUNITY EDUCATION

ADULT ACTIVITIES AT THE MAHTOMEDI DISTRICT EDUCATION CENTER (DEC) 1520 Mahtomedi Ave.

All activities are held at the DEC unless otherwise noted.

MONDAYS: Stitchers 1-3:00 PM, 2nd/4th Monday of Month

TUESDAYS: Mah Jongg, 9:30-11:30 AM, Cribbage 1-3:00 PM

WEDNESDAYS:  Bridge, 1-4:00 PM

THURSDAYS:  500 Cards, 12:30-3 PM

FRIDAYS:  Games, 12:30-3 PM; Bridge, 1-4 PM; Book Club, 2nd Friday, 10-11:30 AM

Mahtomedi Evening Star Quilters - FREE

Sew Day: Tuesday, October 17, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

Meeting: Tuesday, October 24; 5:30-8:00 PM

Bingo: FREE! Monday, Oct. 30, 1:30-3:00 PM. Please bring items to donate to the prize table!

The following requires registration:  mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com

Foundation for Retirement - $49

Tuesday, Sept. 28 and Thursday, Oct. 5 OR Tuesdays, Oct. 3 and Oct. 10, 6:30-9:00 PM

Need-to-Know Changes to the College Planning Process - $10

Monday, Oct. 2, 7-8:00 PM, virtual/online via Zoom

History with Kathy Simmer: The Kennedys- $18

Monday, October 2 or Thursday, October 5, 10:00 AM-Noon Day Trip: Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour - $85

Thursday, Oct. 5, Depart 9:30 AM, Return 2:45 PM (pickup/dropoff at Gladstone, Maplewood0

Adult-Child Paint Date (Painting: Full Moon)  - $60/pair

Tuesday, Oct. 10, 6-8:00 PM, Mahtomedi Middle School Art Room

Many Faces: Connecting to Culture and Community Through Food

Cooking Classes

Pad-Thai - $35, Tuesday, October 10, 6:30-8:30 PM, White Bear Lake

High School, South Campus

FallProof! Workshop - $25

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 10:00-11:30 AM

55+ Drivers Safety: 4-Hour Refresher Class - $35

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 1-5:00 PM

Every step of the way.

55+ Drivers Safety: 8-Hour Basic Class - $45

Oct. 11 & 12, 1:30-5:30 PM, virtual/online via Zoom

Community Lunch - $10

Thursday, Oct. 12, Noon. Lunch catered by Donatelli’s, music by Michael August Schumacher

Everything You Need to Know About Medicare - $10

Monday, Oct. 16, 6:30-8:00 PM

Many Faces: Connecting to Culture and Community Through Food Cooking Classes

Czech Kolaches - $40* (*additional $15 food fee due night of class)

Saturday, Oct. 21, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, White Bear Lake High School, South Campus

Therapy services at Cerenity White Bear Lake help you return to what you do best. Our combination of highly trained compassionate staff and the most innovative care in the area make our community your best choice for professional therapy services.

Should I Stay or Should I Go? Steps to Review Housing Needs  -

FREE

• Aquatic Therapy

Thursday, October 26, 10:00 AM - Noon

Women, Wealth & Wisdom - $15

• Occupational Therapy

Monday, Oct. 30, 6-8:00 PM

• Physical Therapy

MahtoReadi - FREE

Monday, Oct. 30, 6:30 - 8:30 PM, Mahtomedi High School, Chautauqua Fine Arts Center Register at mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com. If you have any questions, please call 651-407-2024.

• Speech Pathology

Call today to schedule a tour: 651-232-1847

1900 Webber Street White Bear Lake, MN 55110

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2023

WHITE BEAR LAKE CITY COUNCIL

Bill Walsh (Ward 1)

Age: 57 City of residence: White Bear Lake

Occupation: Director of Marketing at Center of the American Experiment

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

Finishing my second term on the city council.

Served on the White Bear Lake Welcoming and Inclusion Task Force.

Served as a Board Member for Northeast Youth and Family Services (NYFS).

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

A. My top priority for the city is housing. As our population ages we need to have housing available that allow seniors to sell their single-family homes to a new young family and

Andrea West (Ward 3)

Age: 55 City of residence: White Bear Lake

Occupation: Non-Profit Manager

List three most recent civic involvement

roles:

White Bear Lake Planning Commission: 2021-present, make recommendations to the council on variance requests, issuance of conditional use permits, etc.

Ramsey County Library Advisory Board: 2022-present, provide advice and make recommendations to the library department and Ramsey County Board of Commissioners.

White Bear Lake Housing Task Force: 2021, helped create a set of recommendations, priorities, and programs to support and set housing policies for the council when considering future development and redevelopment.

John Ficcadenti (Ward 3)

Age:57 City of residence: White Bear Lake

Occupation:Self employed

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Ran for White Bear Lake School Board.

• Volunteer at St Pius the X White Bear Lake.

• Past Coach for White Bear Lake youth girls hockey and soccer teams.

• Past Member White Bear Lake Park Planning Committee.

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

A. I use God given common sense on all matters and decisions, while serving on the city council. Understanding the historic small town charm has to be safeguarded when choosing any large transportation or development projects that would have a negative impact on our town as a whole! Public Safety is crucial! It allows families and business

still stay in our community. At this writing we are finishing a community wide survey on housing needs that will inform our strategy. Although the city is mostly built out, there are opportunities for us to encourage developers to build the kinds of housing we need, especially with land owned by the taxpayers.

Other priorities include keeping property taxes in check, supporting law enforcement and continuing the transition to a full-time fire department.

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

A. White Bear Lake is still a small enough town where involving the public in decision making has not been difficult. Our mayors (past and present) have allowed public comment at our meetings on controversial topics, even when the rules don’t necessarily account for it. Staff recently designed and implemented a new process for development that includes a neighborhood meeting with developers very early in the

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

A. • Public Safety: As calls for ambulance and fire services increase, the city must ensure that residents have access to timely emergency services. I support hiring additional Firefighters/Paramedics and I voted in support of building the new Public Safety Facility to ensure the changing needs of our first responders now and in the future will be met.

• Natural Resources: I support a proactive approach to preserving and improving our natural resources, including water conservation efforts and removing/replacing diseased ash trees.

• Housing: I believe in a warm and welcoming White Bear Lake. Data from the Housing Task Force showed there is not enough housing for older adults and those working entry-level jobs (“workforce housing”). I support the City’s efforts to create more housing to fill the housing gaps in our community.

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

A. I believe most decision-making can be enhanced by

the feeling of security, trust and stability. Turning to technologies that would keep our community and frontline workers safe should be considered. Some examples are, the use of drones, and live view technology, where appropriate. Understand that we in White Bear Lake, heavily support our police, fire, EMTs and the entire city staff. And our actions will proudly reflect that.

Hold down the tax burden on ourselves. Inflation and overall costs are at record highs! This is a call for smart responsible governance, that supports the common good of all of us. Budget accordingly, so we won't have to ask our citizens for more of their hard earned money. We must stay within the city budget. No sacred cows, all items must be discussed, to make fiscal sense and hold taxes at bay.

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

A. I would listen to learn, not listen to respond. Reaching out to my fellow neighbors, on a regular basis. I believe that would make them feel comfortable, to freely bring forth their concerns. Social media and town hall meetings, will always be apart of the communication piece — all have their

Editor’s note: White Bear Lake City Council member Steve Engstran (Ward 5) is running for re-election unopposed.

MAHTOMEDI MAYOR

Richard Brainerd

City of residence: Mahtomedi

Occupation: Retired human resources consultant, Mayor of Mahtomedi

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

Board member — Clean Water Council

Minnesota

Board member — Parks & Trails Council

Minnesota

Board member — American Red Cross MN & Dakotas Region

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

A. • Fiscal responsibility in actions taken by the city to finance city services to make sure taxpayer dollars are spent

wisely.

• Protect and enhance parks, trails, water resources and the natural beauty of our community

• Provide support to all neighborhoods old and new, to include preserving the unique character of Mahtomedi important to our "small town city" and it's future.

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

A. Encourage citizens to participate at public hearings before the city commissions and the city council; reach out to ask for involvement.

Communicate with citizens on important issues like development, assessments, and ordinance changes through newsletters, special bulletins, social media, the local news outlets, local forums, at commission meetings and city council meetings.

process, so no one is blind-sided. That has been a big success so far. Lastly, just trying my best to answer email and phone calls when issues come up.

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

A. As with any layer of government, the key to prosperity is mostly staying out of the way of citizens and businesses — prosperity comes from them, not us. We have a good history in White Bear Lake of trying to get to “yes” on proposals, if possible, within our city code and precedent. One growing concern is the amount of debt the city has taken on recently for street repair and for capital projects such as the new public safety building. Individually the projects are worthy and necessary, but we need to keep our eye on the long-term budget implications.

hearing different people’s voices, and I welcome hearing from my neighbors. I plan to engage with people in multiple ways, including through public comment at City Council meetings, listening sessions/town halls, social media on my Facebook page, and in one-to-one conversations.

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

A. The council needs to consider innovative ways to increase revenue, decrease expenses, and set priorities that meet current and future community needs. Our city has delayed needed improvements, has run with minimal staffing, and managed costs to keep taxes low, and now it will be necessary we have needed funds to keep our city great. Some examples include updating streets and lighting in the downtown area, fully staffing our firefighter/paramedic positions, removing and replacing dead ash trees, and using funds allocated by our state and federal governments on relevant projects, including adding solar panels to more city buildings and housing.

appropriate place. But a good old cup of coffee, and a face to face meeting, is a really effective way to establish working relationships. I would hope to do that on a regular basis.

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

A. • We can use the five P's — Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance.

• Strive for that model in our every day to day situations.

• We need to look back at the last five years, analyze our strengths and weakness. What do we do well and where do we need to improve.

• Open dialogue with the community, citizens, city staff and business owners. Even those who served in the past or present roles.

By doing that, we understand our past and create our great future. The city should continue to focus on what its true responsibilities are, and do them in a way that makes our city the best version of itself.  Keeping it safe and maintain our wonderful parks and resources.

God Bless us and The United States of America.

Provide input on strategic planning, by encouraging citizens to respond to city surveys received.

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

A. Listen and hear what the needs are as expressed by our citizens and business, prepare a vision and adopt a strategy and approach for the city to follow to address those needs. Provide valued services to ensure quality of life for our citizens. Provide for important infrastructure, demonstrate equity and social inclusion, produce environmental sustainability, cooperate with neighboring cities for mutual benefit, address fiscal issues and ensure taxes are spent wisely and support initiatives to attract and retain businesses.

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2023

MAHTOMEDI CITY COUNCIL

Jane Schneeweis

City of residence: Mahtomedi

Occupation: Director of Corporate Development and Marketing/Mediator & Facilitator

List three most recent civic involvement roles: Mahtomedi City Council member, Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation - Leadership Tomorrow, Steering Committee member

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

A. My candidacy is rooted in a holistic vision for our community's well-being. Community safety is a cornerstone and I'll prioritize it by continuing to support law enforcement-community relations, backing crime prevention initiatives and supporting emergency response services. Economic growth is essential and my experience as a local business owner equips me to foster our local economy. I'll advocate for policies that attract businesses, generate jobs and support our cherished small businesses, the backbone of our community.

Jeff Charlesworth

Age: 59 City of residence: Mahtomedi

Occupation: Wealth manager

List three most recent civic involvement

roles: Parks Commision, City Council

Furthermore, environmental sustainability is a non-negotiable commitment. I'll champion sustainable practices, green infrastructure and climate change initiatives to safeguard Mahtomedi's natural beauty for future generations. With a proven track record, deep community roots and the skills of a mediator, I am well positioned to lead us towards a safer, more prosperous and environmentally responsible future. Together we can build a stronger, more sustainable Mahtomedi.

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

A. As a City Council member, I'm dedicated to ensuring transparency and citizen engagement in major decisions. To achieve this, I’ll:

• Promote open meetings: Advocate for our regular open meetings where residents can voice their concerns and ideas.

• Utilize digital tools for surveys, polls, sharing information and online forums to reach a broader audience.

• Support our active and effective advisory committees.

• Ensure residents have access to comprehensive information on proposed decisions. These strategies will empower our community to actively

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

A. Public safety, fire and emergency medical services. Maintaining and improving our infrastructure. Parks and trails. (always room for improvement and expansion).

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

A. Listen to all.

participate in shaping our city's future, fostering an informed and engaged citizenry.

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

A. Our City Council can take several critical steps to ensure our city's prosperity:

Encourage sustainable growth by providing incentives for new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurship, and investing in infrastructure that attracts commerce. Creating ordinances that balance freedom and safety for residents.

Prioritize infrastructure projects that enhance connectivity, transportation and public spaces, making our city more livable and attractive to residents and businesses. Support environmentally responsible policies, such as renewable energy initiatives, waste reduction programs, green building standards and protecting our water/wetlands and green space.

Continue to involve the public in decision-making processes, ensuring that policies and initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of our community.

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

A. I think that we need to be mindful of making decisions that benefit everyone in Mahtomedi. We must also encourage our residents to tell us what they do or don’t like and listen to ideas and potential solutions.

GALA: High hopes for homeless in Solid Ground fundraiser

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP MEETING NOTES

• The White Bear Township Board authorized the town engineer to submit a final assessment roll for the Gilfillan area street improvement project at $899,000 instead of $874,000. The number was increased to account for a possible assessment hike of $1,000 for properties on Greenhaven. Improvements on the street included full-depth reclamation instead of mill and overlay. As it stands, the recommendation is to keep the assessment for the 218.5 parcels at $4,000 per unit. A hearing is scheduled Oct. 16.

• Set fee at $250 for businesses applying for a license to sell edible cannabinoid products. Apparently, several businesses are anxiously awaiting the application form to be approved.

BY THE NUMBERS

Solid Ground served a total of 661 adults and children in 195 families with housing and housing search services in 2022. Of the total served, 138 families were housed in its site-based and scattered-site housing programs for families experiencing homelessness. This is an increase of 9% in families housed over the previous year.

of families served by Solid Ground had household incomes at or below the federal poverty line and 79% had incomes at or below 200% of poverty.

of households were headed by single mothers.

• 2024 street improvements for Mallard Ponds and Parkview Court. A resolution was adopted ordering preparation of feasibility reports by the town engineer.

• Revised forestry policy to give property owners a 45-day deadline for removal of dead, dying, pest-infested or diseased trees once they’ve received written notice.

• Appointed Cory Huberty to three-year term on Park Board.

• Placement of “No Parking” signs along Summit Lane.

• Also heard a complaint from a resident in the 4600 block of Stoddart Lane. Her neighbor owns a business selling mini donuts at fairs. The man parks his commercial vehicle on the street all year, causing a public safety issue, she told supervisors. She also described the vehicle as an “eyesore” in the neighborhood and wants the town attorney to take steps to have it moved. A trailer holding equipment for the business is also parked on the street.

Did you know?

Solid Ground was started in the late 1980s by a group of women who were seeing homeless women with children in the community and wanted to do something about it. At the heart of Solid Ground is the belief that housing stability is fundamental to the healthy development of children and to a family’s ability to be contributing members of the community.

of adults and children served by Solid Ground identified as Black, Indigenous or persons of color, primarily African American (54%). of adults served were 18-24 years old; 34% were 25-34; 33% were 35-44; and 33% were 45 and older. of children served were 0-5 years old; 29% were 6-9; 27% were 1014; and 14.5% were 15-17.

“This has been an issue for three years,” she continued. “We’ve called the township many times.” The resident said the property owner has ignored official letters notifying him of violating an ordinance that prohibits parking of commercial vehicles on a roadway for longer than 90 minutes. The large vehicles make it difficult for drivers to see approaching cars, she said.

Chair Ed Prudhon said resolving the issue could take time, but promised to have staff look into the violations.

Debra Neutkens

CONTRIBUTED

(From left) Solid Ground Development and Data Coordinator Sandy Deutch and volunteer Ashley Deutch.

Senior Care to upgrade with donation

Royal Credit Union Foundation donated $62,629 to Cerenity Senior Care of White Bear Lake. The funds will upgrade apartments to become ADA accessible, which will ensure seniors can live a safe, independent lifestyle in the newly renovated apartments. RCU Foundation Board President John Sackett holds the check, surrounded by representatives of both organizations.

Pictured (from left) Ariel Miller, Julie Thelen, Laura Campbell, Amy Burma, John Sackett, Joseph Virtue, Holly Gardner, Bill Foussard, Laura Erickson, Tom Huffcutt, Jerry Kwapick, and Matt Scheuve.

Above: A high-kicking Scarecrow entry in the Fall Fest competition stationed outside of Indulge Salon and Spa in downtown White Bear Lake, captures the spirit of the Weird Barbie character from the movie.

At right: Jo Jo, Brynn and Molli Vinck paint their pumpkins a variety of traditional and also nontraditional colors during the annual Fall Fest celebration in Railroad Park.

Kicking off the fall festival season

Above: A steady stream of visitors made good use of the hundreds of pumpkins, donated by Pine Tree Apple Orchard, to create colorful and creative autumnal decorations.

At left: Rowan and Kieran Sparks Haj pose by the pumpkins they decorated while the paint drys. The Fall Fest celebration coincided with the date of astronomical fall, also known as the autumnal equinox, this year.

Moot point now, but permission denied to extend docks

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

WHITE BEAR LAKE — Not that it matters this late in the season, but a marina operator’s request for a variance to keep his docks extended beyond 300 feet was denied by the lake conservation district.

The operator of Docks of White Bear, Brian McGoldrick, claimed hardship from declining lake levels that make it difficult to use some of the slips. His marina is in the shallow southern corner of Commercial Bay.

District Chair Bryan DeSmet wondered why open slips in deeper water weren’t being utilized by the marina, but there was no representative at the Sept. 19 meeting to answer his questions.

The sheer number of boats in the crowded bay have made it tough to bring the marina docks into compliance, noted Lake Utilization Committee member Chris Churchill. “There are hundreds there, so moving docks are difficult at this point.” Evidently coordinating reorganization of the structures is tough because some boat owners can’t be reached.

“He (McGoldrick) keeps bringing up Adam Thielen,” Churchill said. “He can’t reach him because Thielen is playing football. There’s a month left in the season. The big focus should be getting the permit for next year dialed in.”

At least three of the marina’s docks extend 40 to 45 feet past the 300-foot mark. Some are longer than even the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) permit allows.

DeSmet made the motion to deny the variance, commenting, “Docks of White Bear cheated all season. They went all summer without a permit. The DNR permit allows 260 slips; in July they had 270.”

The district chair said he’s concerned about the precedent a variance will set when water levels are 922 feet or above, which they were at the time of the meeting. Levels have since fallen below that mark and are dropping.

“From a practical matter, Docks of White Bear won’t do what we ask anyway this year,” DeSmet said. “That is an assumption, but I wonder if anything will change. The board needs to make a decision on whether to enforce the ordinance, but that won’t be made until the October meeting and by that time, the issue is moot.”

White Bear Lake board member Scott Costello agreed. “In a month, these businesses will be shutting down. Whether we approve or reject the variance won’t change anything.”

Churchill encouraged the board to give thought to future permit applications. “What do we do for some of these commercial owners?” he asked. “The lake will go below 922 feet. There is 3 feet of water in the bay at the end of some

docks. These guys are running through dirt in a foot of water. Everyone is in trouble. It’s a problem right now, and docks will be going out quite a ways to make it work.”

One thought is to devise a formula for dock length based on elevation or to consider A, B or C options on the application.

Costello pointed out the lake has varied by 8 feet over history. “There will be issues. We need some systematic approach to dealing with cyclable lake levels. I’m uncomfortable with the fact we’ll be in the same mess with all the marinas next year,” he said.

Tally’s owner, Keith Dehnert, told the board he would likely request a variance with his permit application by the Oct. 15 deadline. “We can evaluate today what we think we’re going to need and hedge,” he said, adding that depth varies in the bay on a dock-by-dock basis.

White Bear Lake board member Mike Parenteau pointed out that McGoldrick’s docks were too long before the lake went

down and didn’t think low lake levels now justified the request. He also noted that the lake always goes down in the fall.

District Counsel Alan Kantrud reminded the board they asked McGoldrick to apply for a variance at the last meeting. He advised they explain the rationale for the denial on letterhead mailed to the operator in case there is an appeal. He also said he doesn’t like the idea of “prospective variances” submitted with permit applications, noting the DNR doesn’t post the official lake level until April 15.

DeSmet explained his reason for the motion was that the lake was still at 922 feet, “which the DNR has set in the permit as reasonable to operate at. I don’t see the need for a variance.”

The board agreed in a 7-1 vote, with Churchill voting no. Two board members were absent.

No one spoke at a public hearing on the variance request.

Lyngblomsten is celebrating the opening of its new senior living campus in Lino Lakes, and we want YOU to join us for our Grand Open House! Savor complimentary chef-prepared appetizers and treats, enjoy family-friendly activities, and take a tour. The campus features independent rental townhomes and apartments, assisted living, memory care, and a variety of amenities.

www.lyngblomsten.org/GrandOpenHouse

Lyngblomsten is a Christian nonprofit that has been serving older adults and their families through healthcare, housing, and community-based services since 1906.

JOHN TAYLOR | CONTRIBUTED

Steve Johnson pulls his A-boat out of the lake for the season. Low water levels required a tow to get it off the lift.

HERNIA REPAIR?

Did you receive the Mesh Patch Between 2018 and the present?

WANTED:

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Press Publications is looking for an entry level, motivated graphic designer for a part-time position with the possiblity of full-time. As part of the production-design team, you'll have a vital role in making sure the weekly and biweekly papers get out the door.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Comfortable in Adobe InDesign

Mac based and cloud, with the minor use of Photoshop and Illustrator

- Build ads to customer specs, and assist the sales team with new ads for potential clients

Birchwood Village Citywide Garage Sale Friday Sept 29 & Saturday, Sept 30, 8 AM to 4 PM

OUTSIDE STORAGE! RV's Boats, Toys Pontoons, Trailers Up to 50' deep spaces www.T35storage.com

2011 Toyota, Sienna XLE loaded; low miles est. 112k rear DVD player all accessories, great condition garage kept, spent winters in Florida. Serviced by Maplewood Toyota all records available.

$13,995 six one two

599-1729

One stop shopping

Offers an array of different contractors from yard work handy man repairs, junk removal, carpenter painter electrician,etc. Ryan, 651-303-8053

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or

Three 100 lb L.P. Tanks, 3@$150 or $60 ea. 651-621-9559

Toro Power Broom Used for clearing sidewalks, ice rink & driveway. Toro professional series $2,950

612-599-172 nine

Tow behind ice fishing house, Older King Crow Brands Lots of extras, needs some TLC, asking $4800.

651-621-9559

- Follow a strict schedule with overlapping deadlines

-Work with editors to produce a vibrant product.

JOB DETAILS:

- 12-25 hours per week

- M-F 7:55 - 5:30 varies by season

Email resume to: artmanager@presspubs.com

Now Hiring

Administrative Assistant

Part Time, Mon. & Tues., 7:55am-4:00pm

Press Publications publishes 6 community newspapers, magazines and coupon books, serving White Bear Lake and surrounding communities. Our publications brings news of school events, government, business, politics, and social events to local residents.

Desired Skills & Experience:

High school diploma required.

Ability to interact well with a broad base of internal and external clients, both in person, telephone and written communication. Reliable, responsible, and dependable in fulfilling obligations.Strong attention to detail and the ability to organize, prioritize, and multi task effectively. User of Microsoft Office suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as Microsoft Office.

J o i n O u r Te a m ! Hiring PT assembly workers in White Bear Lake at Snuggle Me Organic. Mon-Fri. Flexible Hrs;

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS

Simley. Alayna Bartylla, 2-singles, won against the Bears. Lily Carlson and Hanna Meslow won both days.

FOOTBALL

TENNIS

Mahtomedi started a busy week with a 7-0 loss to Minnetonka (ranked No. 3 in Class 2A) then won three straight days, improving to 9-7 overall and 4-1 in the Metro East. The Zephyrs edged South St. Paul 4-3, keyed by Kate Hoffman/Katherine Smith winning 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 at 1-doubles. Lily Carlson, Hanna Meslow, and Molly Moffitt/ Amber Schaefer also won. They tripped White Bear Lake 6-1 and Simley 6-1, each time sweeping doubles with Hoffman/Smith, Olivia Bengtson/ Greta Munson and Moffitt/Schaefer. Mallory Langer, 1-singles, won vs.

Mahtomedi fell to conference rival St. Thomas Academy, 42-14, unable to stop Savion Hart who broke loose for touchdowns of 24, six, 22, two, and 22 yards, rolling up 184 yards. Alec Mahoney bolted 54 yards for a touchdown that tied the score 7-7 but the Zephyrs, trailing 42-7, didn’t score again until Charlie Brandt threw to Charlie Thein for a 17-yard TD. The Cadets also got a 27-yard scoring pass from Maximus Sims to Luke Hobbs. Sims was 9-for-11 for 74 yards. Mahtomedi’s Samuel Thein stopped one drive with an interception. Mahoney carried 15 times for 140 yards and blocked an extra point. Brandt completed nine of 15 to five receivers for 77 yards, with one interception.  Mahtomedi will host Tartan (1-3) on Friday. The Zephyrs are 2-2.

SWIMMING

Mahtomedi (4-0 in duals) outstroked South St. Paul 84-74. Zephyr winners were Adalyn Miller (200 free), Dani Baker (individual medley), Abigail

Wright (50 and 500 free), Alix Fox (diving),  Maddie Ruppel (butterfly), Audrey Carlson (100 freestyle and breaststroke) and all three relays with Riley Parizek, Carlson, Sidney Leciejewski, Delaney Dumermuth, Isabelle Befidi, Eve Wiebe and Emmerson Buckley contributing.

VOLLEYBALL

Mahtomedi picked up two victories at home, improving to 6-7 overall and 2-1 in the Metro East. The Zephyrs outlasted Orono (2-7) in five games, 25–23, 21-25, 25-20, 23-25, 15-7. They won in four games over Hastings (3-9), 25-20, 25-23, 19-25, 25-22.

BOYS SOCCER

Mahtomedi won a conference match over Hastings 6-4, then lost to firstplace St. Thomas Academy 1-0. The Zephyrs are 5-6 overall and 3-2 in the Metro East.

GIRLS SOCCER

No. 2 ranked Mahtomedi (9-2-1) battled to a 0-0 tie against No. 1 BenildeSt. Margaret’s (9-0-2) in St. Louis Park. In the double shutout, Stella Grabow made seven saves for the Zephyrs and Olivia Olson made five saves for the Knights. The Zephyrs also won a duel

for the Metro East at Hastings, 4-0. Jacque Worden was in goal with eight saves. Scoring were Allie Rippentrop, assisted by Sophia Peer; Olivia Thiele, assisted by Aynslea Ulschmid; Rippentrop again, unassisted; and Ulschmid, assisted by Breanna Albers. Mahtomedi is 5-0 in conference, Hastings 4-1, Two Rivers 2-1-1 and HillMurray 2-1-0.

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Mahtomedi placed in the top half in two of four meets this month. At Montgomery, the Zephyrs  placed 11th of 24 teams. Gabby Fox was 32nd, Vanessa Rogosheske 62nd, Sylvia Lavigne 80th, Ruby Grinstead 92nd, and Brooklyn Erickson 101st. In the Metro East Preview at Hastings, the Zephyrs were fifth of six teams, with Two Rivers winning. Rogosheske placed eighth, Lavigne 13th, Erickson  26th, Anna Cosby 28th and Julia Clayton 32nd. At Osceola, the Zephyrs took sixth of 14 teams. Fox placed 18th, Rogosheske 19th, Lavigne 28th, Erickson 59th and Cosby 81st. At Chisago Lakes, the Zephyrs were sixth of eight teams. Fox placed 17th, Rogosheske 18th, Lavigne 20th, Erickson 40th and Grace McCarthy 53rd.

-  

Bruce Strand

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED Katherine Smith stroked the ball during Mahtomedi’s win over White Bear Lake.

A LOON ZEN

Loon Chronicles VIII: A Loon Zen Moment

There have been many new developments since our last report. We want to thank our neighbors and Loon whisperers, around the lake, for keeping us posted while we were on our 4,500-mile road trip out west. Many reported spotting groups of Loons gathering near the Birchwood shore, circling each other, diving in tandem, and taking off in crazy bouts of wing-rowing. Adult Loons, on lakes all over Minnesota, are preparing to make their long migratory flight, with a layover on Lake Michigan, where they will feast on that lake’s abundant supply of cisco, a small oily fish loaded with calories and fat. We have only spotted a few adult

Loons on White Bear Lake since our return. We suspect that the chick’s parents left a few weeks ago. Dave Thorson let us know that he saw the chick in flight during the first week in September. Right on schedule!

with having the entire lake to themselves. We can expect more chicks to arrive during the next few weeks. We spotted one of the, now, very large juvenile Eagles perched atop a cottonwood tree eying a huge cover of Coots. As we all have come to appreciate, that it is not easy being a Coot in the Fall. High school team sailing is underway; always fun to watch. We look forward to the arrival of all the migratory foul stopping over, while making their way south. It is nice to be back on the lake again.

Ellen Maas

Sailors race for a special trophy on White Bear Lake

Results of September’s A-boat races (the last race of the season was Sept. 25) determine the winner of a new prize in the White Bear Yacht Club’s sailing division: the Fletcher Driscoll Memorial Trophy, named in honor of the man credited with bringing the majestic A-scows back to White Bear Lake. In the hunt with a first-place finish Sept. 18 is skipper Van Johnson and his crew sailing W-9. Close behind is Larry Pardee’s W-88 Asylum, which crossed the finish line in second. Five boats competed. The Sept. 11 race was canceled due to lack of wind, so only two races will determine which team gets the trophy.

Deb Neutkens

Mahtomedi trainer receives Zamberletti Award

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTER

Karen Karlson found her calling one day in seventh grade PE class at Lake Mills, Wisconsin, when a classmate dislocated his thumb — a rather horrifying sight.

“I was the only one not freaked out,” Karlson recalls. “I took him to the nurse. My gym teacher, Mr, Mulderink, took notice and hooked me up with the camps.”

She started attending camps for prospective trainers in eighth grade and was hooked. She enjoyed playing volleyball, but gave it up to devote herself to being “student trainer” from her freshman year on at Lake Mills, which didn’t have a regular athletic trainer.

“I guess I’ve been doing this since I was 13 years old,” Karlson said.

Karlson followed that path ever since, as athletic trainer at Mahtomedi High School for 16 years. She recently received a major honor, the Fred Zamberletti Award.

Karlson, nicknamed “TK” (“Trainer Karen”) by students, was honored this month during a ceremony televised by Bally Sports North in which the Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation announced awards for high school, college and Vikings players.

Her approach to the job involves more than treating injuries. “Kids aren’t always looking for someone to fix them; they’re looking for someone to listen,” she says. She always has snacks and

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

TENNIS

With their top player sidelined, White Bear Lake went 2-2, playing four straight days. The Bears (6-8 overall, 3-3 conference) lost to Hill-Murray 4-3, beat Cretin-Derham Hall 6-1, lost to Mahtomedi 6-1, and beat Irondale 6-1. Ellia Groneberg, 1-singles player, was out with a wrist injury. Talia Domschot moved up to 1-singles and won all four matches, including the lone point against Mahtomedi. Elara Kruse and Ivory Drusch were each 3-1 in singles. Josie Guidinger/Sophia Menier and Mallory Peltier/Ava Johnson were each 2-2 in doubles.

Bears 0-4 after loss to Rangers

White Bear Lake scored first but Forest Lake took charge after that to defeat the Bears 28-10. The Bears dropped to 0-4 and will host East Ridge (1-3) on Friday.

The Bears led 7-0 on a one-yard run by Cole Sather in the first quarter, and pulled within 14-10 with Ben Watson’s 34-yard field goal in the second quarter. Sophomore quarterback

puzzles available in her office to make students feel welcome. She cares about them “as more than athletes.”

The Zamberletti award, named for the late Vikings trainer who’s in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, goes annually to a high school or college trainer. She called it an especially nice honor since she’s only the second female to get it.

Todd Fultz, president of the NFF Minnesota chapter, cited Karlson for “ensuring that hundreds of athletes are healthy, safe, and staying on the field.” He noted that people in the school comment on the “meaningful impact she makes on the lives of many students.”

“Her attention to preventative care,

daily maintenance, and rehabilitation is at the collegiate and professional level,” said Aaron Forsythe, Mahtomedi High School activities director. He also praised her special rapport with kids, families, and staff members.

Prior to Mahtomedi, Karlson had stints at the University of Minnesota as she obtained her masters in Kinesiology, Blaine, Concordia-St. Paul, and University of St. Thomas.

The awards presentation telecast will air again Wednesday at 9 a.m., and Friday and Saturday at 4 p.m.

Run of success: Zephyr wins 3 in row

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

William Lieberman compiled a remarkable run of three consecutive first-places in cross country invitationals for Mahtomedi this month.

“Never had anyone win three in a row (before),” remarked Jim Driscoll, 35th-year head coach. “He worked very hard over the summer.”

Toni Animasaun saw his first varsity action, completing 17 of 34 passes for 199 yards with one interception that was returned for a touchdown.

Scoring for Forest Lake (3-1) were Leyton Patzer on a 46-yard run, Nolan Dumonceaux on runs of one and 11 yards, and Mark Rendl with the 60-yard pick six. The Rangers rushed for 231 yards and passed for 46.

For the Bears, Devin Mueller caught five passes for 57 yards, Isaac Kibagendi four for 57, Vinny Villella five for 52, and Austin Gibson two for 33. The Bears were held to 55 yards on 25 rushes. Kesean Lipscomb had 15 totes for 41 yards. Kibagendi intercepted a pass, Mueller made two tackles for loss, and Charlie Woodcock recovered a fumble.

GIRL CROSS COUNTRY

White Bear Lake placed 11th of 37 teams in the Maroon division of the University of Minnesota’s Griak Invitational. With 116 teams from several states, competition is divided into Championship, Gold and Maroon races. Roșie Sommers placed 21st (21:14), Clara Kolstad 23rd (21:19), Annika Schroeder 37th (21:43), Logan Bailey 121st (23:04) and Ella Hipkins 136th (23:14) among 311 runners.

GIRLS SOCCER

After two shutout wins, White Bear Lake leads the Suburban East with a 5-0 mark. The Bears hosted Woodbury (40-1) on Tuesday (see presspubs.com). In

a 3-0 home win over East Ridge, Becca Smith assisted on goals by Elizabeth Wallek and Jenna Maloy, then booted the last one herself, with Maloy assisting. The Bears blanked a team with talented forwards, led by defenders Abby O’Brien and Cami Bachmeier and goalie Autumn Maki (eight saves). The Bears (8-2-2) won their sixth straight over Park 3-0 at Cottage Grove, with Alivia Farrell netting two goals and Smith one. The Bears held the Wolfpack (2-6-3) to one shot on goal.

BOYS SOCCER

White Bear Lake lost to conferenceleading East Ridge 2-0 and to Park 3-1. Caleb Anderson had the goal against Park, assisted by Ben Watson. The Bears are  0-4-4 overall and 0-2-3 in the Suburban East. East Ridge is 8-1-1 and Park is 5-5.

VOLLEYBALL

White Bear Lake made a stirring rally that fell short in a 3-2 loss to Park of Cottage Grove. The Bears lost the first two sets 25-16, 25-21, then won 25-16 and 32-30. Park prevailed 15-11 in game five. The Bears then went 1-2-1 in the Two Rivers tournament. They lost to St. Paul Harding 25-14, 25-20, split with Two Rivers 25-17, 17-25, lost to Rochester John Marshall 25-10, 25-17, and beat St. Cloud Tech 27-25, 25-17.

Bruce Strand

The Zephyr senior won the 25team United South Central meet at Montgomery in 16:14.81 with Stewartville’s Josh Langseth 12 seconds behind. In the Metro East Preview at Hastings, Lieberman hit the chute in 16:27.43, out-kicking

Two Rivers’ Noah Fernandes and Patrick Donohoo by 2.4 seconds each. He won by .02 of a second at the 15-team Osceola, Wisconsin meet with 16:52.20, just ahead of Ian Findlay of Baldwin-Woodville.

“Each win, he came from behind,” Driscoll noted.

The streak ended with a 15thplace finish in 17:44 at the 13team Chisago Lakes meet. “He used that race as a training run,” Driscoll said. “Three races in eight days is hard to do.”

In the season opener, Lieberman placed 16th in a 20-team Rosemount meet (that was 3,000 meters, not the usual 5,000).  He is looking to improve on last year’s placements of 97th at state, 12th at section and ninth at conference.

At the USC meet, Mahtomedi placed eighth of 25 teams, with Evan Carion in 30th place, Matthew Studenski 32nd, Hudson Otto 91st and Luke Roettger 101st among 202 runners. At the conference preview, won by Two Rivers, the Zephyrs were fourth of eight. Carion took 16th, Studenski 25th, Charlie Wirka 44th and Otto 48th among 133 runners. At Osceola, Mahtomedi placed fourth of 15. Studenski was 16th, Carion 18th, Otto 38th and Wirka 52nd among 155 runners. At Chisago Lakes, they were sixth of 13. Carion placed 16th, Studenski 21st, Wirka 44th and Zhenghong Schlechte 53rd among 85 runners.

CONTRIBUTED

Mahtomedi cross country runner William Lieberman.

BRUCE STRAND

Karen Karlson, Mahtomedi athletic trainer, chatted with players at the Zephyrs football game.

BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED Talia Domschot picked up four wins at No. 1 singles for the Bears.

OBITUARIES

David Thomas Erickson

of Mahtomedi, Minnesota was called home by his Lord & Savior on March 4, 2023. He was surrounded by his loving wife Nancy of 61 years and family. Funeral services were held March 19, 2023 in Marinette, WI.

He was born January 3, 1940 in Brooten, MN. Dave attended District #2 country school, Glenwood High School, Augsburg College and graduated from the University of Minnesota. He was employed by Peter’s Sunset Beach Resort Glenwood, Minneapolis Electric Steel Castings Columbia Heights, North High School Minneapolis, White Bear Lake High School and West Publishing Company St. Paul/Eagan.

A loving husband, father and grandfather; Dave used his many God given talents to serve his family, church, community, employers and employees always treating everyone with respect. The world was his home; he loved to travel, meet people and was always comfortable everywhere.

A memorial service will be held October 1, 2023 at St. Stephen Lutheran Church 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake, MN 651-777-1107. Friends may call at 2:00 PM until time of service at 3:00 PM with Pastor Juli Thompson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Stephen Lutheran Church or Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 1600 University Drive, Marinette, WI 715735-3101. Hansen-Onion-Martell Funeral Home, Marinette, WI is assisting the family.

Anthony (Tony) Jamal Lawson

36 tragically died by cardiac arrest March 10, 2023 at Ocean Beach San Francisco. He loved the ocean but did ask for or choose death by fentanyl poisoning.

It takes a village. White Bear Lake was Tony’s village. Immensely supported by teachers, den leaders, counselors, coaches, neighbors, law enforcement, downtown activities, businesses (first job was delivering the WB Press), Tony grew up in a healthy community surrounded by nature and families that valued relationships. His forever motto was “safety first” also tattooed on his arm “music is life”.

Anthony is survived by first and only son Jordan Ray Collins Lawson, fiancée Jenna Lynn Collins, siblings Sterling King Lawson, MaryClara Lee Lawson, parents Patricia Lee Waller, Willie Jr. Lawson (GA).

Everyone is invited to a celebration of life for Anthony Jamal Lawson on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Polar Lakes Park 1280 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110. Event will begin at 1:00 p.m. with an eco-friendly balloon release at 2:00 p.m. Tony’s family will take great comfort connecting with those who knew and loved him. Share your favorite memories of “Happy Tony”. Anthony was a Philomath, took great pride being methodical in relation to human philosophy. He also was a planner, leaving nothing to imagination. A farewell message to friends and family was found that Tony wrote for a situation like March 10. Please join us and hear these profound words written to you. Reading will be immediately before the special tribute balloon release.

Recognizing the difficulties of being a single parent and raising Jordan without Tony, envelopes for suggested donations of prepaid gas cards will be available at event. Please consider contributions for Jordan accepted through mail to Healthy Living Network LLC, 4540 Grace Street, White Bear Township, MN 55110 for deposit at Cities Credit Union, 3625 Talmage Circle, Ste 102, Vadnais Heights, MN 55110.

Several social media sites remain open to visit. Photo submissions, music favorites, gaming memories, shareable stories, past events, tributes are welcome and encouraged for Facebook memorial page facebook.com/tonytwotimes2x. Other suggested name search on Twitter, X, Instagram, LinkedIn: Tony Lawson, Tony J Lawson, and Anthony J Lawson.

Neal H. Nelson, Jr.

72 of White Bear TWP, passed away at home, surrounded by his family on Friday, Sept. 1, 2023.  He is survived by his wife, Sondra; sons, Nathan (Mary) and Ethan (Shandi); grandson Brayden; brother Richard (Nancy); many nephews; nieces, uncles; in-laws; and friends. Neal believed in the importance of family above all else. His wife and children were the center of his life. He cherished his friends, both old and new.  His passion was fishing and bird hunting.  He will be missed. A celebration of his life was held on Friday, September 8, 2023. Mueller Memorial-White Bear Lake, www.muellermemorial.com

Warren Robert Pratt

Age 88, of Grant Township, went home to be with his Lord on September 22, 2023. In recent years, he was living in Fayetteville, NC. He was born on March 20, 1935 to Renaldo and Vandetta Pratt of Spooner, WI.

More details can be found at https:// www.facebook.com/ brian.m.pratt.1

Gayle Darlene Sundt

of White Bear Lake passed away unexpectedly on August 27, 2023 at age 80. The beloved area art teacher was buried at a private service. A celebration of her life is planned at a later date.

This Week In SPORTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE

Thursday, Sept. 28

4 p.m. — GirlsTennis vs. East Ridge

• 5 p.m. — Boys Soccer vs. Forest Lake

7 p.m. — Girls Soccer vs. Forest Lake

Friday, Sept. 29

7 p.m. — White Bear

Lake Football vs. East Ridge

Tuesday, Oct. 2

5 p.m. — Girls Soccer at Stillwater

7 p.m. — Boys Soccer

Saturday,

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Vaughn Larson

Cross Country

Vaughn Larson, a strong No. 2 runner for White Bear Lake cross country, placed 11th among 341 runners in 17:24 at the U of M’s Griak Invitational, helping the Bears place first of 38 teams in the Maroon Division. The junior placed 10th in a Lakeville North meet, leading the Bears to sixth place among 18 teams with their top runner sidelined. “Vaughn is built like a runner, long and lean. He’s all legs,” coach Dan Kovacich said.

“And he works hard. He puts in a lot of miles in the summer, because he has a passion for the sport.” Larson is a third-year starter and was all-conference last year.

“Your Financial Partner”

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

Weekly Outlook

After a week of harassment from neighbors pleading for rain, we finally received a nice soaking Saturday and Sunday. Some of you might have experienced a little bonus rain Sunday afternoon as well. I totaled 2.00 inches of rain Saturday evening into Sunday morning, then an additional 0.11 inch early Monday morning. While the time of the rain on Saturday put a damper on outdoor evening activities, I really didn’t hear many complaints. Not only was the rain needed for our lawns but Metro area lakes as well, as they had dipped to their lowest levels of the summer. Fall colors are bursting north and just showing signs here in the Metro. While this week got off to a wet start, the weekend ahead looks great.

DULUTH RIVER TRAIN Fall Color Rides

Vaughn Larson

andArts Culture

EMERGING ARTIST SAM THEIN

“We all look up to him when it should be the other way around,” my neighbor attending clay classes at the White Bear Center for the Arts (WBCA) said, “We’re old guys barely able to use a wheel, and he’s shoulderdeep molding a four-foot tall vase!” Fascinated, I had to hunt down this pottery prodigy for myself. How is someone so young so good? Two weeks later, sitting across from Mahtomedi senior Sam Thein, I found my answer.

“Right now, I do pottery for two hours every day at school,” Sam explains, “I’m in AP Pottery, and I’m a teacher’s assistant for the beginners. Half my day, I get to myself; the other half, I spend helping others.”

“Then he comes here [WBCA] for the evening class,” his mother, Kari Thein, adds, “It’s almost an obsession.”

Even more impressive, Sam was fresh off of football practice when he met with me. Once his varsity football season’s over, he’ll shift his focus to basketball. While one may imagine sports and art have little in common, Sam actually began pottery because of sports.

“I tore my meniscus two years ago,” Sam recounts, “so I was just sitting with nothing to do. I chose a pottery elective because I thought, ‘Why not learn

something new?’ It just took off from there.” While Sam has fully recovered from his injury, he’s incorporated pottery around his athletic schedule. “I love sports, but I get bored if that’s all I’m doing every single day. Pottery’s

When I point out that he does pottery as much as he does sports, Sam laughs, conceding the point. “It’s become a challenge to myself to see how good I can get… You can create

OCTOBER EVENTS

something new every single day.”

One recent challenge Sam Thein has attempted is familiarizing himself with an old-school kick wheel. “I’m going to St. John’s for college [to double major in ceramics and business], but all I’ve practiced on is electric wheels. I bought a kick wheel, and it’s really exciting.” Here, Sam chuckles meekly, “but it’s been hard building.”

When I ask him which artists inspire him, he says he doesn’t have one source. At this, Kari shakes her head, commenting, “Most kids are on their phones—and Sam is, too—but he’s watching pottery videos for inspiration!” From these videos, Sam finds different techniques and styles, then uses the ones most comfortable to him.

As I’m wrapping up the interview, I ask if he’s got a style or a voice yet. Sam shakes his head, unsure, then offers, “I like to make pieces for people’s homes, but no one has the same home, so I kinda wanna sell to everyone!”

Such an opportunity is coming soon. Sam is having a smallbusiness-Saturday sale at 7 Vines Vineyard on November 25th from 12:30-4:30pm. Browse Sam Thein’s entire collection at samtheinpottery. com

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

THE LARAMIE PROJECT

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts

When: Thursday, October 5 & Friday, October 6 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, October 7 at 2:00 PM WBCA will be hosting performances of The Laramie Project by Northern Starz Center for the Performing Arts. This project is a traveling fivemonth educational series for high school actors at Northern Starz.

PERENNIAL, MEDICINAL HERBS FOR THE HOME LANDSCAPE

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts

When: Tuesday, October 17, 7:00-8:30 PM

There is a wide diversity of culinary and medicinal herbs that we can grow as perennials here in Minnesota. Join local landscape designer Pete Widin for an exploration of these exciting plants.

OCTOBER COMMUNITY DAY

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts

When: Saturday, October 28, 1:003:00 PM

Join WBCA for a fun family day of fall festivities. The afternoon will include a pumpkin carving contest, art experiences, refreshments, and more. Costumes are encouraged!

TIGHT-KNIT CAST MAKES ADDAMS FAMILY PRODUCTION SNAPPY

“Wednesday is very different from a Disney princess,” intones Eleanor Cannon, Children’s Performing Arts’ Wednesday Addams (and recent Belle in their Beauty and the Beast production), “so all my choices are somewhat weird.”

“I just pretend I’m a dad,” shrugs Weston Rabbitt, the show’s Gomez Addams, “He’s more talkative than I am, but his humor’s pretty similar to mine.”

“She gets what she wants,” smirks Laila Elazab when talking about her character, Morticia Addams, “She’s bossy and stubborn, so I really wanted to be her.”

Though these three young actors have different demeanors and approaches, they all separately said the same words: “It’s been really fun.”

For Cannon, her confidence is higher now. “Belle was my first lead, and I was the youngest of the core cast. Here, I’m one of the oldest,” Cannon explains, “There’s

excitement, but less nerves this time.”

Elazab mentions the narrow age range as the reason for her comfort on stage. “I’ve worked with some of the same people before, so we get along,” she expresses.

Rabbitt, meanwhile, trusts the ability of the ensemble, saying, “Normal middle-school plays aren’t very good because there are so many without experience. Here, we have a lot of good singers—really good. Everyone has been in a play before, too, so I’m more comfy on stage.”

A trusting ensemble is essential to any good production, but, for director Evan Heil, it’s only the foundation. “Since they’re middle schoolers,” Heil reasons, “I take an educational approach to my directing style. Just like Broadway actors, we do tablework: ’What does your character want?’ ‘How do they get it?’ There’s never a wrong answer—just ones that don’t go in the direction we’re doing right now.”

According to Heil, this encourages the actors to not

be so hard on themselves, which, in turn, frees them up to try again. The results have been effective. “It’s been such a good strategy,” Elazab comments, “It makes me think more about my character, and I have a deeper connection.”

Cannon especially appreciates this approach because she’s so close with her costars. “I’m taking risks as a performer, yes, but I’m willing to take more risks because I’m taking them with friends.”

Rabbitt, meanwhile, believes it’s the whole reason people should see the show. “Every Addams family is different,” he points out, “because different people play them. How did we add detail to our Addams family? And how will you react?”

Find out soon! The Addams Family opens Thursday, October 26th and runs through Sunday, November 5th.

Get tickets online at childrensperformingartsmn.org

WHITE BEAR LAKE HISTORICAL SOCIETY HOSTS BUS TOUR WITH A BANG!

“People would ask incoming gangsters, ‘Why are you so pale? White Bear Lake is a summer town,’” Allison Lincoln, Member and Donor Services Director for the White Bear Lake Historical Society, paraphrases. The gangsters’ response? “We’re the musicians. We’re pale because we practice at night.”

Lincoln admits, “A musician’s a great cover. Clubs need a band, and how else are you gonna hide a Tommy gun?” White Bear Lake’s 1920s mobster scene is infamous,

so much so that the details get a little warped 100 years later. Many townsfolk may be familiar with neither the events nor where they took place. Consequently, the Historical Society is taking people on a tour via The Gangster Bus!

Hosted by Sara Hanson, The Gangster Bus will drive passengers around the entirety of White Bear Lake (the body of water, not the town, wiseguy), stopping at each community. “Obviously, the Idlewile Cottage is a big stop,” Lincoln notes, “since that’s where Ma Barker stayed. There’s also going to be a stop at where The Plantation

[a notorious mafia hideout] used to be. The bus will also stop at Catherine Abbott Park near Dellwood because a notable drive-by shooting occurred there.”

All of these stops and more promise to quench mobster aficianados’ thirst.

“We did a promo for the tour in Roseville, and people went nuts,” Lincoln marvels, “gangster mania is alive and well in the Twin Cities.”

Why, then, hasn’t The Gangster Bus been a storied annual tradition? Lincoln has an understandable, though frustrating, answer: “So much of this was rumor.

Then the FBI recently declassified all the documents regarding that time, so now we know what actually happened.” Now armed with as many facts as its subjects had bullets, The Gangster Bus promises to be the bees’ knees.

The Gangster Bus tour runs on Tuesday, October 28th, at 10 and 11:30am, rain or (hopefully) shine. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at whitebearhistory. org/events

Ongoing Wine Club membership. See website for info. Two Silo Winery

Ongoing Winey Tour every Sat & Sun 4-5 p.m. Two Silo Winery

Ongoing Open to public Th-Su unless closed for private event Belle AmeVineyards

Sept. 25-

Oct.1 Oktimberfest party! At new location, 3429 Centerville Rd.