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Food shelves likely to see demand increase further this fall, winter

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Many food shelves in the North Metro are seeing the number of visitors continue to increase and are struggling to keep up with demand. That’s a trend that likely isn’t going to go away anytime soon.

“What we have been experi encing has been a return of food insecurity to the levels of when the pandemic began,” said Perry Petersen, executive director of the White Bear Area Food Shelf (WBAFS). “Some of the larger agencies that we work with, Hun ger Solutions, Second Harvest, the Food Group, have indicated that it’s going to get worse head ing into the fall and this winter.

Petersen said WBAFS has seen the need and prices go up, while financial support for the food shelf has gone down. From 2019 to 2020, the food shelf doubled its number of visitors. In 2021, thanks to the increase of federal, state and local programs that kicked in to offer support to those in need, the food shelf saw a tem porary dip in its numbers.

“We are up 36% in visitors from 2021. We are seeing similar to what we saw in 2020,” Petersen said. WBAFS has also seen a dip in financial donations. “We are about 20% below our budgeted income in donations,” Petersen said.

Due to the increased demand, the WBAFS has had to shift to a curbside program, so clients are not permitted within the building to shop. “In July, we saw 95 visits per day to the curbside program ming … There is a line into our parking lot to be able to receive services.” For that reason, the food shelf is looking into adding a second location. “That would be a game-changer for us,” Petersen said.

In an effort to reach more cli ents, WBAFS has also expanded its delivery program. It partners with Door Dash to bring food, free of charge, to people who are unable to get to the nonprofit’s building.

During the pandemic, the two main issues were dealing with COVID-19 and all of the protocols that go along with that, as well as staffing. “Now it is really about (whether) we can get the food, if

we can afford the food, and if we have the funds and facility to do it,” Petersen explained.

It has become increasingly more difficult to source food. Although the local grocery stores have been generous to the food shelf, Petersen says food available through food banks like Second Harvest and the Food Group is not as abundant as it used to be.

The Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf (HGNFS) has also seen an increase in the number of fami lies visiting the food shelf. “Our client volume is well over double what it was at this time last year,” said Chris DuFresne, president of the HGNFS. “We continue to see more clients who are employed and need help making ends meet with food due to the increased cost of food, gas, child care and home energy.”

Due to supply chain issues, DuFresne explained it has been hard to source some food items, similar to what grocery stores are facing. The food shelf has also had to purchase more food be cause it isn’t getting as much food through food rescue programs

SEE FOOD INSECURITY,

Public safety building expansion moves forward

WHITE BEAR LAKE — Three years after setting the goal, a public safety renovation project is going out for bids.

It’s good news for cops who currently park squad cars outside and for firefighters who will have large bays for fire trucks and a decontamination room, among other amenities.

Plans and specifications for the estimated $14.4 mil lion facility were approved by City Council Sept. 13, which then ordered advertisement for bids. Deadline for bidding is Oct. 11. Council will consider the bids at its Oct. 25 meeting. The city plans to issue bonds to finance the renovation.

The original public safety building was constructed in 1961 and renovated in ’95.

Construction is slated to start March 2023 with com pletion June 2024. Miller Avenue, behind the building, has already been permanently closed as part of the project.

Debra Neutkens

SEE VOTERS’ GUIDE,

Press brings Guide before each major election. about person running for local offices before casting their vote.

CONTRIBUTED

A rendering of the new White Bear Lake public safety facility.

LUNCH AND TABLE GAMES

When: noon Wednesday, Sept. 28

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

Details: Bring a bag lunch and play table games with friends. Coffee provided.

Contact: 651-204-6000 or cityvadnaisheights.com/seniors

SPRAYFINGER OPENING RECEPTION

When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4791 Long Ave.

Details: Create a spray art project, pizza from the wood fire oven, and learn about graffiti as art. All ages. Free; registration required.

Contact: whitebeararts.org

AUTHOR VISIT

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

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

Details: JacLynn Herron wil sign copies of her debut “Rewriting Marguerite.”

Contact: 651-426-0918

WHITE BEAR LAKE CLEANUP DAY

When: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1

Where: 4200 Hoffman Rd. (former Public Works build ing)

Details: Residents can dispose of unwanted items. Proof of residency required. See list of accepted items and fees online.

Contact: whitebearlake.org/ee/page/cleanup-days

FILLEBROWN HOUSE TOURS

When: 10-11 a.m. and 11:30-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1 & 8

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Tour the 1879 lakeside cottage with a guide to hear the stories of the Noyes, Young and Fillebrown families who have used this property as their summer home, and see the Stick Style architecture. Registra tion $12.

Contact: whitebearhistory.square.site

RIVERTOWN FALL ART FESTIVAL

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2

Where: Lowell Park, Downtown Stillwater

Details: St. Croix Valley's largest juried art festival fea tures the works of more than 100 artists from around the country, food vendors, beer tent, live music. Contact: greaterstillwaterchamber.com/rivertownfal lartfestival.com

HARVEST HOWL

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1

Where: Wildlife Science Center, 22830 Sunrise Rd. NE

Details: Annual event features wolves, raptors, bears,

Lake Links celebrates milestone with opening of Saputo Station

WAFFLE BREAKFAST AND FIRE DEPARTMENT OPEN HOUSE

When: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 3

FILE | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

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

Details: All-you-can-eat Belgian waffle breakfast sponsored by the Vadnais Heights Lions Club, Cando Canines, activities for kids, free blood pressure testing, diabetes prevention information, KidSight Vision screening for kids 6 months-6 years, fire truck tours, Ramsey County Sheriff K-9. $8/adults, $7/seniors, $4 kids 6-14, 5 and under free.

Contact: 651-204-6000 or cityvadnaisheights.com

cougars, and other resident wild animals. Demos, arti sans and vendors, food truck, and adult beverages. Ad mission $15/adult, $10/children 5-17, 4 and under free; dogs on leashes welcome.

Contact: wildlifesciencecenter.org

LANDSCAPING FOR BIRDS AND PEOPLE WITH NATIVE EDIBLES

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 4

Where: Zoom Webinar

Details: Pete Widin speaks on selecting the right plant ings for your unique property as well as mimicking natural plant communities for low maintenance in a webinar hosted by Mahtomedi Garden Club.

Contact: Mahtomedigardenclub.org

SENIOR HOUSING DAY

When: 2-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7

Where: White Bear Senior Center, 2484 E County Rd F

Details: Learn about local senior housing options in the area. Representatives from local facilities will be available to talk about the services they offer. Explore options and get answers without the pressure.

Contact: 651-653-3121

PUNKINMANIA

When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center and Vet eran's Memorial Park

Details: Community event sponsored by the Wild

Lake Links Association will host a sign hanging ceremony for the Sa puto Station building in White Bear Township’s Bellaire Beach Park. The event will be held Thursday, Oct. 6 at 3 p.m. Due to Ramsey County’s work on South Shore Blvd., participants should enter the park using Bellaire Avenue. Representatives from Saputo, members of White Bear Rotary, Ram sey County Commissioner Reinhardt, and City Manager Lindy Crawford are scheduled to be in attendance, along with others who have made the train

wood Lions Club and the Kramer-Berg American Le gion Post 507. Painted and regular pumpkins for sale, games, crafts, fire trucks, food and more.

Contact: wildwoodlionsclub.org

“DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL”

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6; 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7 & 14; 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 & 15; 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9 & 16

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

Details: Childrens Performing Arts production in cludes Disney's favorite heroes and villians.

Contact: childrensperformingartsmn.org

GANGSTER BUS TOURS

When: 10-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8

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

Details: Outing explores the hideouts and haunts of the 1930s-era gangsters who laid low in the cottages around White Bear and Bald Eagle Lakes, including a Mahtomedi speakeasy and the location of a notorious dance club. Advanced tickets required; $25.

Contact: whitebearhistory.square.site

HARVEST FEST &

GIANT PUMPKIN WEIGH-OFF

When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 and Sunday, Oct. 9

Where: Lowell Park, 201 Water St., downtown Stillwa ter

Details: Giant pumpkin weigh-off, chili cook-off, carv ing exhibitions, games, music, pumpkin regatta, trac tor pull, street dance.

Contact: harvestfeststillwater.com

GARNET LODGE PANCAKE BREAKFAST

When: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9

Where: Arch Duncan Masonic Center, Garnet Lodge #166, 4923 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: All-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage. $10/ adults; $5 ages 6 – 12; 5 and under free.

LAKE WOBEGON BRASS BAND

When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9

Where: Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, Mahtomedi High School

Details: 30-member band performs marches, show tunes, pieces from the classic brass band literature, and commissioned works. Tickets $30/adults, $25/se niors, $20/students.

Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11

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

Details: To make an appointment, visit redcrossblood. org or call 800 733-2767. All blood types needed.

station-themed rest area along the Lake Links Trail a reality.

BEAA announces annual meeting, guest speakers

The Bald Eagle Area Association is holding their annual meeting on Thurs day, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m. in the meeting room at Boatworks Commons, 4495 Lake Ave. S., White Bear Lake. Parking is available on the street or in the ramp adjacent to Acqua. Guest speakers will be Steve McComas from Blue Water Science and TJ DeBates from the East Metro DNR.

The art of collecting pieces you love

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

White Bear Lake retiree Kathy Hoelscher says the first thing she does when traveling is visit the local art museums and galleries.

An avid collector, Hoelscher has been filling her Lake Avenue home with spe cial pieces for more than 20 years. She has a particular fondness for glass art and has found some spectacular pieces at one of her favorite events: the annual American Craft Council (ACC) show in St. Paul.

“The show has been a stable source of art for me,” said Hoelscher, who is excit ed the event is returning this year after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

Hoelscher had some advice for people new to art collecting. First of all, “collect what you love. I only buy pieces that speak to me and make me smile,” she said.

This year’s ACC show, formerly known as the American Craft Show but renamed American Craft Made, features several artists in Hoelscher’s collection. One favorite is St. Paul glass blower Fred Kaemmer. She also has rugs by Minneapolis rug maker Kelly Marshall.

Every piece has a file that includes the artist, the price and related prove nance.

“It sounds a little grim, but some day when I’m not around, someone may want to know more about these pieces,” Hoelscher said.

Other favorite genres from ACC in her collection include purses from Ma ple Leather and Roche Leather. She also has a stone sculpture purchased in 2015 from North Shore artists Dan and Lee Ross, who have participated in many past ACC shows.

The personal interaction with artists is what Hoelscher loves about ACC. “To me, it’s important to talk to the artist. They’re all so agreeable to talk about their artwork.”

Another important piece of advice: Establish a budget and stick to it, she advises.

Collecting was put on hold during COVID but then Hoelscher found an interesting piece of furniture carved by beavers in Door County last fall. She also just bought a piece in Palm Springs in March at a local artists’ co-op, which she tries to seek out when traveling.

Hoelscher is looking forward to the ACC show next month. “It’s rare to find 100-plus eminent artists in one place, much less in our own backyard,” she noted.

“I’ve never thought of myself as a collector, but it makes me happy. I like having an original work that the artist is proud of and, in turn, I am proud of.” Hoelscher shared the websites of art ists for some of her pieces. See www.fredsglass.com; kellymarshall. com; www.housejewelry.com; www.ma pleleather.com and rocheleather.com.

This rug in Hoelscher’s sunroom is by Kelly Marshall; a Minneapolis maker.

A favorite piece is this vase by St. Paul glass blower Fred Kaemmer.

PHOTOS

Collector Kathy Hoelscher said glass art is her first love. She stands by a piece she saw in France recently while traveling.

This glass sculpture is the first piece Hoelscher at the American Craft Made show.

Subscribers are crucial

Publisher’s View

Carter Johnson

Readers are part of the backbone of our paper. As we have shared in the past, subscribers help keep the paper viable. We have been using a QR code to help simplify the process to subscribe. We have received a lot of positive feedback about the QR code that takes readers to the subscription site. You will see it on our front page next week. One friend told us that their high school age kids were curious to find out what was behind the code. Last spring, we had more than 60 online subscriptions the morning following the launch. Just a few years ago we might see a few online subscriptions for those living out of the county or state. Today we are seeing a solid percentage of our subscribers using the online subscription system. We also provide an envelope for those who prefer to mail in a payment. Please remember it can take up to three weeks to start receiving the hard paper copy. If your logging in for the first time, make sure to create an account then log in and use your subscriber code to starting viewing enhanced online content. Subscribers can view more photos, the full e-edition of the paper, and videos online. Our staff will answer questions and troubleshoot any problems you may have getting it set up. Give us a call at 651-407-1200 Monday through Friday 8-5 p.m. Thank you for supporting your community newspaper!

Homecoming

Our son is a sophomore and was excited to celebrate homecoming this weekend. He and a group of friends started with a tailgate party in the parking lot before the football game. They rounded up a portable grill, cooler of water and soda, tent, tables and chairs. They had Spikeball, footballs and frisbees to throw around, and scooters. A couple of them-including my son-recently got their drivers licenses so they went to the grocery store and picked up hotdogs, brats, burgers and chips. The group pitched in to cover the cost of the food and beverages. Many parents offered to help and the boys turned it down. I thought it was great that they planned it and carried it out themselves. They said classmates stopped by the tailgate, despite the cold and rain. And the team won.

T he homecoming dance the following night involved a group of 22 kids. Parents helped coordinate the dinner reservations and transportation, and took hundreds of photos. Once the kids sat down to dinner several parents headed out to a local restaurant to wait until the kids called for rides to the dance. Downtown was buzzing and restaurants were packed with multiple schools celebrating homecoming. The demand on local establishments was perhaps too much with the lack of staff.

It’s fun to see the young men and women dressed up and to see how the styles have changed over the years that we have had kids involved. Most of all it was great that the homecoming dance tradition was back to normal.

Election season

T his edition includes the 2022 Voters’ Guide. Annually Press Publications asks candidates running for state offices, city offices and school boards to submit questionnaires so that you the voters can get to know them and their positions on the important issues at hand. Our staff invests signinfacant time into making sure the guide is comprehensive and all candidates respond (though some don’t.). Note: in the White Bear Press, there are so many candidates that we will publish the guide over two weeks. The Voters’ Guides will also be available at presspubs.com. Take some time to get to know the candidates in the upcoming election, you vote counts. Election season also brings increased community engagement in terms of letters to the editor. In these past few weeks and the next few leading up to Election Day, we will publish more than three times the number of letters as any regular week. We publish all letters that meet our guidelines. The dialogue and debate through letters to the editor is important. Letters represent the opinions of the people in the community, not the Press. We encourage readers to share their opinions, and just ask that those writing letters keep civility in mind.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

Remembering Community Leader Steve Wolgamot

After a long, courageous battle with cancer, our community was saddened by news of the passing of Steve Wolgamot.

I had the honor of working with him on various topics— ranging from education to trails—for many years. He truly exemplified community and public service at its best.

Steve cared deeply about people. He was actively involved serving the community in many ways.

plus a career that included serving as a trial attorney, business entrepreneur and more.

A s many of you know and appreciate, Steve worked tirelessly to develop and implement plans for a 10mile bike and walking trail around White Bear Lake. He recognized the trail provided outdoor recreation for people of all ages and increased safety. It also provides economic benefits to our area.

passion, can-do optimism, professionalism and spirit.

A s a member of the Senate Capital Investment Committee, it was an honor to twice bring legislators from across the state to see the Lake Links Trail.

T hanks to his leadership and effective lobbying - including organizing his neighbors and testimony at the Capital - almost $8 million in state funding has reached the trail.

Legislator Lingo Chuck Wiger

For 14 years he served as a school board member for Mahtomedi public schools. He helped establish the Mahtomedi Area Education Foundation, and nurtured several programs, particularly engineering and robotics.

Steve also served on the Mahtomedi city council. Active and engaged, he represented his constituents effectively and faithfully.

I n addition to serving in elective office, Steve was very involved in a variety of interests ranging from coaching, youth basketball, water skiing, the arts, church, and organizing many neighborhood events. All this

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 $35 fee. Please call 651-4071200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement

Steve’s own words about the trail are the best summation of what its completion means:

“For the very young and the very old, the ability to move around without a car ... is a really important thing. For children, it’s how they establish their independence. For seniors like me, it’s a significant way we preserve and extend our independence. If we as a society don’t make it possible for people to move around, I don’t think we’ve done our job well.”

Steve organized the Lake Links Trail Association and recruited several enthusiasts. Together, they collectively lobbied the legislature for state funding for the trail.

I had the privilege of working closely with Steve. We exchanged numerous emails and scores of phone calls at all hours, and attended dozens of local, regional and state meetings over the years. Steve always exuded indefatigable

T hough Steve did not live to see its completion, it is through his efforts that will ensure the completion of the full 10-mile Lake Links Trail in 2024 or 2025. There is no question it was his singular drive that created the momentum to get this work done.

Last year the Mahtomedi city council named part of the trail “Wolgamot Way”. When the 2023 legislative session convenes in January, a resolution honoring Steve will be presented.

Steve’s legacy of service should inspire us. We can all take a page out of his book of life as we look to get involved in our communities.

A memorial service celebrating Steve’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Oct. 7 at St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Mahtomedi. Visitation one hour prior.

LETTER GUIDELINES FOR ELECTION SEASON 2022

letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

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. 8 election will be printed in the Oct. 26 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.19.

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

Sen. Chuck Wiger represents District 43 in the Minnesota Senate

Response to letter

A while back, in a more lucid mo ment, the St. Paul Pioneer Press published an article wherein science was defined as the process of being less and less wrong over time. With that in mind, I'm thankful to the White Bear Press and Mr. Jorissen for the previous week's corrective concerning the overall positive energy return on investment (EROI) of windmills.

That said, I dug up a scoring of EROI for various energy sources, defined as energy output divided by energy input. Nuclear is the gold standard, with a score of 75, followed by hydroelectric at about half of nuclear's score. At about 30 are coal and natural gas. Compar atively, wind and geothermal are at 4 and solar at 2 (New Zealand has a much higher wind score). I can't vouch for the formulas and methodology (I have a B.S. in math from RPI — not the only BS I'm accomplished at, to my family's chagrin) but, simply put, if phenomenal growth has moved the needle so little, what will it take to sufficiently close the gap with the top producers?

Second, am I to interpret the silence regarding the nature of at least some of the mining needed to enable renewable energy as assent? If so, "clean energy" increasingly appears to be not quite so clean.

And last, given science's intrinsic flux, might not today's political pro nouncements, predicated on yester day's science, be seen as foolishness in tomorrow's news?

James Nash White Bear Lake

Thank you for community support

On behalf of students who use and appreciate the Mahtomedi Fab Lab, we want to extend a special thank you to the community for over a decade of support for innovation and excep tional learning at Mahtomedi High School. To give back to the community, the Fab Lab is hosting a community celebration to showcase the history and accomplishments of all the STEM Programs at Mahtomedi High School, made possible by the first public Fab Lab in the nation built in the state. The Fab Lab has granted hundreds of students opportunities to follow their interests and careers starting in high school, through 3D printing, 3D scan ning, vinyl cutting, mini milling, and laser engraving. Over a dozen clubs have rooted in the Fab Lab, ranging from small fun STEM challenges to a club business that can produce prod

OBITUARY

ucts for the district using the Fab Lab machines. The generosity and support of the Fab Lab by the community have made these accomplishments possible!

Please help us empower the next generation of innovators by joining us on Oct. 10 at the Mahtomedi High School Fab Lab. Many students accredit their success and interest in STEM to the Fab Lab. We plan to honor those involved and the students who have ex plored their passions since the opening in 2011 during this celebration.

The night will begin with an exciting community rocket launch at 5 p.m. in the sporting fields between the high school and Wildwood Elementary School, followed by a presentation, and continue into an open house full of interactive activities, machine demon strations, tours and fun from 6:30 - 8 p.m. If you are interested in watching rockets launch into the air, state-of-theart fabrication technology in action or near-industrial grade robots do pullups, join us for this community celebra tion! This night of fun, innovation and celebration is open to everyone inter ested in learning about the Fab Lab and STEM activities in Mahtomedi, free of charge. Again, thank you so much to the community for your support over the last decade.

Anna Baldauff Mahtomedi High School STEM Club President Class of 2023

Safety and our schools

Like most parents, the safety of my children is a top priority. Unfortunate ly, school is no longer a safe place for them. The lack of consequences for disruptive and dangerous behavior continues to fuel problems for students and staff.

Teachers are no longer allowed to get involved in discipline issues or confrontations. This means the issue either continues or escalates. On nu merous occasions, law enforcement has been called to schools in White Bear Lake. Students need boundaries and higher expectations. We need to stop making excuses. This has a detrimen tal effect on the learning environment for everyone, and reduces the amount of class time that can be used for actual learning.

No amount of facility upgrades will fix this issue. We need to address the root cause. Until there are real conse quences to bad behavior, things won’t change.

Matters only get worse as these students go out into the community and real world. Just look at the number of stolen vehicles by kids who aren’t even

Susan Jean Kenyon

Susan Jean Kenyon (nee Ward), age 78, of White Bear Lake, passed away surrounded by family on September 22nd, 2022.

Sue was born to Wesley and Alice Ward on January 4th, 1944. The youngest of three children, she is preceded in death by older brothers Lee (Sylvia) and Dennis Ward (Betty Lou). She grew up in Robbinsdale, MN, and attended Robbinsdale High, where she was crowned Homecoming Queen in her senior year, 1961.

In addition to devoted husband of 48 years, John Kenyon, Sue leaves behind a large and evergrowing family of loving children, Dave Kenyon (Nancy), Sue Mellstrom (Steve), Jeanna Warren (Steve) Denise McCormick (Peter), Peter Kenyon (Stacy), grandchildren; Kori Kenyon (John Lokken), Krista Kenyon, Sarah Kenyon (Sam Czelatdko), Emily and Ryan Mellstrom, Allison

old enough to have a license. Parents need to take responsibility for their kid’s actions and schools need to rein force expectations. Our kids and our community deserve better!

Rebekah Bradfield White Bear Lake

PAID LETTER

Candidate supports schools

I write to encourage my neighbors to support Heather Gustafson for state Senate District 36. Our students and teachers deserve someone who will champion them, unlike the current incumbent who is against full funding of our schools. Heather will support our schools based on her practical and lived experience as an educator in our com munity. She understands the reality of education — that to enable our chil dren to be competitive and successful against their peers across the nation, and even worldwide, we need to provide them with a robust and world-class education. To do that, we need resourc es for and investments in our schools. Support Heather Gustafson for state Senate District 36.

Lucie Passus Vadnais Heights

creative solutions to the needs of our students, solutions that will give to each of our students the tools and resources they need to succeed. We need a state Senator who understands the urgency of enacting legislation that will get our schools back on track and who won’t fail to act while our kids and grandkids miss the opportunities that will allow them to thrive. Heather Gustafson is willing to put in the work and is bursting with the energy needed to get our schools to where they belong. Please vote for Heather Gustafson for education and for a better future for all Minnesotans.

John Utley Vadnais Heights

PAID LETTER

Candidate committed to city

PAID LETTER

Candidate will put in work

You might be like me and find your self in a new Minnesota Senate District (Senate District 36) this year as a result of redistricting. We have two new Sen ate candidates to choose from on Nov. 8 —Heather Gustafson or Roger Cham berlain. I watched the Candidates Fo rum ’22 for Minnesota Senate District 36 conducted by the League of Women Voters held on Sept. 13 between these two candidates, and was struck by how Heather gave honest, informed and thoughtful answers. She was thorough ly prepared and provided sensible plans that she would undertake as our sena tor. Roger, on the other hand, had his pat answers: “get back to basics”; “keep it simple”; and “my record speaks for itself.” These simplistic responses don’t address the serious predicaments that resulted from our two-year pandemic. Teachers can’t teach “the basics” to students suffering from mental health issues and from the deficiencies result ing from remote education. “Back to basics” isn’t going to cut it anymore. Roger Chamberlain has stayed planted in place while the world has moved on. We need someone in the state Senate who will do the hard work of finding

As a resident of Vadnais Heights, I write to express my support of Kelly JozWOWski for City Council. A resi dent of Vadnais Heights for 14 years, she consistently demonstrates her commitment to our city. She currently serves as the vice chair of the Park, Recreation and Trails Commission. In this role, she works hard to maintain and grow our great parks and trails for our community. For instance, she advocated for the implementation of two gardens at Berwood Park: a pollinator garden and a raingarden. As a City Council representative, JozWOWski wants to move VH toward a leadership role in sustainability. This plan includes a long-overdue initiative to become a Green Step City, all while confronting the global problem of cli mate change at a local level.

Not only does JozWOWski want to move us toward sustainability, but she also wants to ensure that all VH residents feel included in our neigh borhoods. A democracy sustains itself through its people's collective voices, and JozWOWski wants to make sure we all feel heard and respected. For instance, she plans to advocate for a Human Rights Commission that would strive for racial equity. Like her plan on sustainability, this plan confronts glob al problems at a local level and shows her commitment to making our world a more just place for all.

Along with JozWOWski's unwaver ing passion for improving our com munity and world as a whole, she is a thoughtful and trustworthy neighbor and person. Neighborly gestures like participating in No-Mow May for early pollinators, displaying uplifting lawn signs to ensure all feel welcome in our

School Bus Driver

Fredrichs (Brett), Katie Warren (Nick Davenport), and Benjamin Warren, PJ and Julia McCormick, and four great grandchildren, Weston, Norah, Mikko, and Jackson.

Sue was known for her love for family, very nearly matched by her love of ice cream, in particular, French Silk Pie at Donatelli’s. In her later years, she was a craft fanatic, with a particular knack for cross-stitching and card-making. Her children and grandchildren knew her as a world-class hugger and banana bread baker. Sue will be remembered for her sweet tooth, and her sweetness. She was sweet to everyone she met.

Service Friday, September 30, 10:00 A.M. at WHITE BEAR LAKE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH,1851 Birch St, White Bear Lake. Visitation 9-10:00 A.M. Private burial Lakewood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, grateful memorials to White Bear United Methodist Church and the White Bear Food Shelf preferred. Bradshaw 651-407-8300 www.bradshawfuneral. com

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

Vadnais Heights

• Two vehicle owners reported the truck bed cover of their vehicle cut open and items stolen from inside while the vehicles were parked over night Aug. 25-26 in a hotel lot in the 3500 block of Vadnais Center Drive. The property damage was estimated to be $1,000, and the stolen items were estimated to be worth $260.

• Two St. Paul women, 42 and 63, were cited Aug. 26 at the Walmart in the 800 block of County Road E for shop lifting, after they were detained by loss prevention personnel for un der-ringing $162.18 in merchandise at the self-checkout. They were also tres passed and released from the scene.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 32, was arrested on two felony warrants Aug. 26 in the 800 block of Belland Avenue, after Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies deployed a stun gun and nonphysical K-9 use of force. After deputies were granted access to a residence, they located the suspect in a crawl space. The suspect came out after seeing the presence of the K-9 and stun gun.

• A St. Paul woman, 29, was cited Aug. 26 at the Walmart for shoplifting, after she was detained by loss preven tion personnel for switching tags and under-ringing $82.84 in merchandise at the self-checkout. The suspect had already been trespassed from Walmart stores and Sam's Clubs. A record check also found an unserved temporary harassment restraining order (HRO) from Hennepin County. Deputies served the short-form HRO on the subject.

• A backpack and bag were reported found Aug. 27 behind the bar at Jim my's Food and Drink in the 1100 block of County Road E.

• Deputies assisted the Minnesota State Patrol Aug. 28 on I-694 and Highway 61 in searching for a suspect in a road rage incident involving a firearm at that intersection. They stopped vehi cles involved and interviewed partic ipants before turning the case over to the State Patrol.

• A St. Paul man, 39, was arrested for felony receiving stolen property Aug. 28 in the 800 block of County Road E, after deputies recovered a Hyundai Elantra stolen from Tasmair Services LLC of Bloomington. Deputies on patrol located the unoccupied sto len vehicle with a broken rear side passenger window in the Walmart

parking lot after the suspect had left the store with merchandise he didn't pay for and returned to the car. Depu ties pursuing the shoplifter caught up to him because he backed over a curb as he tried to hurry away from the parking lot.

• A New Jersey woman reported the catalytic converter stolen from an Mitsubishi Outlander parked in a hotel lot in the 1100 block of County Road E overnight Aug. 29-30.

• A Coon Rapids woman, 25, was ar rested on multiple warrants and for multiple crimes Aug. 30 in the 3500 block of Labore Road after deputies responded to a report of a female sleeping in a vehicle. On contact with the subject, deputies learned that the person occupying the driver's seat had two misdemeanor Anoka and Hennepin county warrants out on her and was in possession of a vehicle stolen out of Minneapolis. In addi tion, deputies found a supply of stolen plates, suspected narcotics, a weight scale and credit and debit cards in three different names. During the transport to jail, the suspect claimed to have ingested narcotics and was detoured temporarily through Regions Hospital for examination before her journey ended at jail. The suspected narcotics were taken into property for testing.

• A catalytic converter was reported stolen from a Ford F-550 motorhome while it was parked in a driveway in the 600 block of Monn Avenue over night Aug. 29-30.

• A set of keys was reported found on top of a rock near the shoreline of Vadnais Lake on Vadnais Blvd. E. Aug. 30 and placed into property, after deputies were unable to match them with any vehicle parked in the Vadnais Lake south lot.

White Bear Township

• A resident in the 5100 block of Bald Eagle Avenue at 5:59 a.m. Aug. 28 reported two motorcycles stolen from the driveway. The vehicles were en tered into the National Crime Infor mation Center database.

• A catalytic converter was reported stolen at 9:54 p.m. Aug. 29 from a Toyota Prius while it was parked in the State Fair Park and Ride lot in the 4600 block of Greenhaven Drive.

• A White Bear Township woman reported being bitten by a dog Aug. 30 in the 1100 block of Pine Hill Lane, after she approached it without invi tation or permission. She was seen at the Urgency Room for a small lacera tion, and the dog is on home quaran tine while current on rabies vaccine.

WASHINGTON SHERIFF REPORTS

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

Dellwood

• A sister in the area of Dellwood Road N. and Ideal Avenue N. reported that her juvenile broth er was followed home by a black SUV at 10:40 p.m. Aug. 31.

Grant

• A property owner in the 10000 block of Hadley Avenue N. on Aug. 30 reported a man for tres passing on his property to gain access to fish on Pine Tree Lake. The lake has no public access, so the male had been parking in a no-parking area and walk ing through the complainant's property. The property owner was tired of it and wanted Wash ington County Sheriff's Office deputies to “trespass” him.

• A Minnesota man was cited at 10:55 p.m. Sept. 2 on northbound Lake Elmo Avenue N. and 66th Street N. for failure to drive with due care, after deputies observed him driving at a high rate and gave chase with lights and sirens. The subject vehicle became air borne through an intersection before deputies caught up with him. During the traffic stop, dep uties noticed all the classic signs of intoxication, and the driver admitted to having five to six alcoholic drinks. However, the portable breath test revealed a non-arrestable 0.066 blood alcohol content. Although deputies were not allowed to take him in, they didn't have to let him continue driving, either. His wife was summoned to the scene to pick him up.

• A motor vehicle was reported stolen Sept. 3 from the 11000 block of 60th Street N., accompanied by criminal damage to the com plainant's property.

Mahtomedi

• A juvenile was arrested for narcotics at 2:22 a.m. Aug. 26 on westbound I-694 at Century Avenue, after deputies pulled him over for speeding.

• A suspicious driver observed by deputies at 5:47 a.m. Aug. 27 in the area of Long Lake Road and Ledgestone Drive turned out to

be an Uber driver looking for an address for a customer pickup.

• Deputies escorted a juvenile home at 3:01 a.m. Aug. 30 after they observed him riding a bicy cle in the area of Warner Ave nue and Greenwood Street after curfew.

• A seaplane was reported for causing a disturbance at 11:01 a.m. Aug. 30 on Mahtomedi Ave nue. Dispatch advised the com plainant to contact the city.

• An unidentified motorist was ar rested Aug. 30 in the area of Wild wood Road and Century Avenue for driving after revocation, after deputies conducted a computer check of the vehicle's license plate. The driver also turned out to have a felony drug warrant, and was in possession of a revolv er without a permit to carry.

• A motorist of undisclosed iden tity was arrested Aug. 31 on Mahtomedi Avenue for multiple violations, following a report of suspicious activity. During the traffic stop, deputies discovered the passenger had a Ramsey County felony warrant, as well as marijuana and a loaded, stolen firearm inside the vehicle. The passenger was charged with mul tiple local crimes, and the driver was arrested and released.

• Two motorists were cited within two hours of each other Aug. 31 in the 800 block of Woodland Drive for running a stop sign. On Sept. 2, a motorist was cited in the 1400 block of Wedgewood Drive for failing to obey a stop sign.

• A boater was cited at 8:57 p.m. Sept. 1 on White Bear Lake for not displaying a front navigation light, lack of a fire extinguisher on board and not displaying prop er registration.

• A Woodland Drive resident on Sept. 1 reported her daughter was being harassed from a blocked number. The complainant told deputies she believed the pest might have been her daughter's ex-boyfriend's new girlfriend. Deputies advised the com plainant not to answer blocked numbers and phoned the ex-boy friend to leave a message.

Willernie

• Vandalism was reported over night Aug. 31-Sept. 1 on Sargent Road.

St. Jude of the Lake

SEE WHITE LAKE

Lila Jean Bakken (Shir)

Lila Bakken, of White Bear Lake, passed away Sept. 17, 2022 at 93.

Survived by her loving husband Carlton, sons Dale (Karen) of White Bear, Tom (Kendra) of Stillwater, Scott (Cheryl) of Lindstrom, Ron of White Bear, 4 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Lila and Carl met roller skating in Spicer, MN and married in 1949 (73 yrs).

In 1955 they moved into their new house in White Bear Lake and raised their four boys. Lila enjoyed spending time at their lake homes, traveling, fishing, hunting, square dancing and expressing her artistic talents. A huge dog lover, she delighted in raising, caring for and visiting pets. Most importantly, Lila loved her family and was proud to share stories. Her beautiful, heartfelt smile and sincere gratefulness for the many blessings in her life will be sincerely missed.

Special thanks to the caring staff and neighbors at St. Andrews Village and HealthPartners Hospice.

Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Oct. 8th with Visitation at 11:00 at St. Andrews Church, 900 Stillwater Rd, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 (651.426.3261).

Lorraine Birkeland

Lorraine passed away peacefully on September 9, 2022, at the age of 98. She is preceded in death by her husband, Arthur; parents, Henry and Elizabeth Wohletz and sister Esther Anthony. Survived by children, Cindy (Del) Dunn and John (Darlene) Birkeland, 4 grandchildren, 5 greatgrandchildren and her niece/caretaker Debra Anthony. A special thank you to the care team at Waverly Gardens. Lorraine spent her life surrounded by the flowers she loved. Celebration of Life at White Bear Floral Shop - 3550 Hoffman Road W - WBL; on September 30th with a visitation at 11:00am, service at 11:30am and a luncheon to follow.

Dawn Metcalf

Dawn Metcalf passed away January 6, 2022, at the age of 65. Born in Oak Park, IL, she resided in Vad nais Heights, MN since 2013 in a home she loved. She is survived by her 3 daughters: Bree (Jim), Misty (Justin), Chelsey (Eric), and a brood of grand and great grandchildren.

Susan Elizabeth Pavek

1941-2022 Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, GreatGrandmother, Sister, Aunt, and Mother-inLaw of White Bear Lake, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 9th, 2022, at 81. Preceded in death by her parents, Lionel and Delena, and survived by her husband of 60 years, Robert; children Stephen, Richard, Christopher, Lori, Michael (Cara), and Steve Pan; 7 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Susan deeply loved her family and was treasured by her friends. Sue shared her passion for gardening with all who visited.

Visitation from 10 am to 11 am, and Christian Mass at 11 am with a reception to follow on Saturday, October 1st, at St. Jude of the Lake, 700 Mahtomedi Avenue, Mahtomedi, MN 55115. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the American Heart Association or donor’s choice.

First Church of Christ, Scientist AUGUST SUNDAY SERMONS

Oct 2nd: Unreality

Oct 9th: Are Sin, Disease & Death real?

Oct 16th: Doctrine of Atonement

Oct 23rd: Probation After Death

Oct 30th: Everlasting Punishment

Sunday school @ 10am Testimony meetings every Wednesday at 7:30pm in person 4705 Clark Ave White Bear Lake | 651-429-0512

Saturdays at 5:30pm and Sundays at 8:00am 2nd and 4th Sundays at 10:45am and 3rd Sundays at 10:45am Sundays at 9:30

FOOD INSECURITY: Need spikes at food shelves

COMMUNITY BRIEF

Hydrant flushing to begin

White Bear Township Public Works will begin to flush hydrants and water mains throughout the Township in the next few weeks. Some residents may experience discoloration in the water. Resi dents can open their lowest level faucet to clear the line. It is not advisable to wash clothes if the water is discolored.

Sheri Hanson, president of the Centennial Commu nity Food Shelf (CCFS) board, said CCFS has had a hard time keeping its supply of basic needs, including eggs, milk, butter, flour and sugar. Keeping a good stock of a variety of meats and snack items has also been difficult. In order to supplement their stock, food shelf volunteers have had to shop at area grocery stores and purchase the items for a higher price tag since they aren’t always able to get them through Second Harvest or the Food Group. She added that the partnership the food shelf has with six grocery stores for food rescue has also been “a godsend.”

FROM PAGE 1 Bear

Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelfwww.hugofoodshelf.org

Centennial Community Food Shelfwww.centennialfoodshelf.org

Hanson explained the food shelf continues to see new clients it has never served before. From June through August the food shelf served 810 households and 2,929 individuals compared to 476 households and 1,449 families during the same time period in 2021.

“Some people have had to choose … Sometimes they can’t afford the gas to get to the food shelf.” She added that the county has some transportation programs in place if people need a ride to the food shelf. CCFS also

CONTRIBUTED

conducts a minimal number of deliveries, mainly to seniors who can no longer drive or find a ride to the food shelf.

For the first time since the pandemic began, CCFS is planning to once again offer holiday meal baskets for Thanksgiving and Christmas. During the pan demic, the food shelf had to scale back its number of volunteers, but more volunteers will be needed for the one-day distribution events later this fall and winter.

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

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Club Pilates celebrates grand opening

Club Pilates White Bear Lake recently celebrated a grand opening in its new, larger location and its five-year anniversary with a ribbon cutting. The studio moved a couple doors down to a bigger space at 4717 Hwy. 61 N.

Village Stadium Sports Bar to close Sept. 30, Little Village Pub will open in October

WHITE BEAR LAKE — The Village Stadium Sports Bar will end its run and close on Sept. 30. The owners, Cathy and Terry Montpetit, look for ward to a new venture at a new location, The Little Village Pub, which will open in October.

“To all the athletes and amazing customers, we want to thank you all for your patronage and the memories. To all our employees, current and past, thank you all for your dedication and hard work. Whether you came in for bingo, sports, or to grab a bite to eat, we truly hope we provided you with the best experience,” said the Montpetits.

As a final sendoff, the Stadium will host live mu sic by Arch Allies, along with other entertainment starting at 4 p.m. Sept. 24 on the ballfield. Tickets are available for purchase on the Arch Allies' web site, or at the door the day of the event.

The Little Village Pub will be located in a remod eled Bierstube on County Road E in White Bear Lake. Customers should expect happy hour spe cials and a new menu concept. More details will be released in the coming weeks.

The “Tuesday Crew” volunteers at the White Bear Area Food Shelf helped serve 134 households on a recent Tuesday eve ning. With rising food costs, the WBAFS is seeing an increase in families visiting the food shelf.

Home stretch for adopting storm drain

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP BOARD SNIPPETS

• John Duxbury will bow hunt on White Bear Township property at Rice Lake from Sept. 19 to Dec. 31, and Cole Rechtzigel will bow hunt from Sept. 19 to Dec. 31 on Water Gremlin property.

• A hearing on street improvements will occur at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 17, to authorize the town engineer to pre pare the final assessment roll.

• The township’s Economic Develop ment Authority (EDA) met to discuss a counteroffer for the Otter Lake Road/

NAMES IN THE NEWS

Theatre director to exit stage

White Bear Parkway town-owned property. The board has made a rec ommendation that the township tenta tively accept $1 million for that prop erty and that staff should continue to keep working on the specifics of the project. The EDA board will work with staff on approval of the project at the soonest meeting possible.

Corinne Stremmel

CONTRIBUTED

Calling the increase “significant” from the starting point, White Bear Lake Conservation District board member Scott Costello said the Adopt-a-Drain challenge has some distance to go to reach goal.

There’s a month left in the district’s challenge that started last March at 298 adopted drains. The goal is to double that number by end of October.

The latest figure shows that 486 drains have been adopted as of Sept. 13.

“The challenge is focused on progress made by the city of White Bear Lake, Mahtomedi and White Bear Township,” according to Costello. “The other two mu nicipalities around the lake, Dellwood and Birchwood, do not have the kind of urban stormwater systems as the other commu nities and the base data on total number of drains may not be meaningful for them.”

This month’s challenge update indi cates the city of White Bear Lake is only eight drains shy of doubling the starting point. The township has 14 to go to double its number, while Mahtomedi needs 84

newly adopted drains.

When looking at percentage of drains adopted, however, Mahtomedi has a high er percentage than either the township or city. “So, in that ‘race,’ Mahtomedi is win ning,” Costello said. Achievements will be recognized when the challenge concludes in November.

Why adopt a drain? Stormwater flows directly into local lakes, rivers and wet lands, acting as a conduit for trash, salt and pollutants. The Adopt-A-Drain pro gram gives residents the opportunity to improve water quality by adopting a storm drain in their neighborhood and keeping it clear of leaves, trash and other debris. The result is less water pollution.

“When more drains are adopted, every one wins the prize of cleaner local water ways,” Costello pointed out.

To adopt a drain or learn more, go to mn.adopt-a-drain.org. Click on “Adopt a Drain.”

Debra Neutkens

Lakeshore Players Theatre an nounced that Executive Director Rob Thomas is leaving his position for an opportunity to play a leadership role for a national nonprofit organization. He was at the helm of Lakeshore Players for 6 years.

In his time at LPT, Thom as secured several of the largest financial gifts and presided over the largest growth in the organization’s decades-long history. During the pandemic he and his staff created innovative ways to ensure that the theatre continued to operate.

east Metro, but his love for the arts have been integral in developing the beginnings of a thriving arts district with hopes it will be a destination not only for the state, but nationally. He is leaving behind some enormous shoes to fill,” said Children’s Per forming Arts Board Chair Sharon Hanifl-Lee.

CONTRIBUTED Rob Thomas

Thomas built or grew rela tionships with several other organizations including Children’s Performing Arts, White Bear Lake Area Historical Society, White Bear Center for the Arts, White Bear Lake Area Schools, PAI, and the Many Fac es of the White Bear Lake Area for which he was a founding member.

“Not only has his dedication and passion helped to build a premier performing arts center in the North

Thomas also served on the Boards of Directors for several community organi zations, including the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society and the Vadnais Heights Economic Devel opment Corporation, and volunteered at the White Bear Area Emergency Food Shelf and Saint Andrew’s Community Resource Center. Other involvement in the community included emceeing the annual Bear’ly Open Community Dance and hosting sever al special events for Solid Ground.

“I’m extremely proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish by working with our community,” said Thomas.

“This organization will always have a special place in my heart.”

Thomas’ last full day with LPT is October 3.

SARAH

PUBLIC NOTICES

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 Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

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

BRENDA LEE FREEMAN

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 602 East Lake Cove Antioch TN 37086

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.

Freeman, Brenda 1601 Standing Stone Dr Lebanon TN 37087

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 per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: September 21, 2022

Signed: Freeman, Brenda Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 28 and October 5, 2022.

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 Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

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

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 360 Spring Street, Apt. 409 St. Paul, MN 55102

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.

Rachel Klein 360 Spring Street, Apt. 409 St. Paul, MN 55102

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 per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: August 19, 2022

Signed: Rachel Klein Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 28 and October 5, 2022.

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 Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Immigration Law Office of Rey Hulme

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1688 Portland Ave Saint Paul MN 55104

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.

Reynard Hulme 1688 Portland Ave Saint Paul MN 55104

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 per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: September 6, 2022

Signed: Reynard Hulme Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 28 and October 5, 2022.

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 Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

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

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 445 Minnesota St, Ste 1500 St Paul, MN 55101

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.

Barbara G Sommerville 720 7th St E #226 St. Paul, MN 55106

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

Dated: September 1, 2022

Signed: Barbara G Sommerville, owner Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 21 and 28, 2022.

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 Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

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

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 445 Minnesota S, Ste 1500 St Paul, MN 55101

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.

Ditsy LLC 445 Minnesota St, Ste 1500 St Paul, MN 55101

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 per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: September 1, 2022

Signed: Barbara G Sommerville - member Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 21 and 28, 2022.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES

Ramsey County releases solicitation opportunities on DemandStar, its official website, as an alternative method of public notice pursuant to Sec tion 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 reg istration information. If you are new to DemandStar, please follow the De mandStar registration instructions on the “How to Contract with Ramsey County webpage.” Access to all Ramsey County documents is free if the in structions 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 con ducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details. Effective Oct. 1, 2022, Ramsey County will no longer be advertising in the newspaper, holding public openings, or requiring submissions through DemandStar for most Request for Proposals (RFPs). Individuals may go to the “Doing Business with Ramsey County” webpage https:// www.ramseycounty.us/businesses/doing-business-ramsey-county for information.

SOLICITATION: RFP-JTPA3686-KB

OPENING DATE: NOVEMBER 30, 2022

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY IS SEEKING PART NERS TO PROVIDE LEARN & EARN OPPORTUNITIES TO YOUNG PEO PLE AGES 18-30 IN GATEWAY OCCUPATIONS. THIS INCLUDES PAID OCCUPATIONAL AND INDUSTRY TRAINING THAT WILL LEAD PARTICI PANTS TO SUSTAINABLE, LIVING-WAGE CAREER PATHWAYS. PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: ZOOM LINK LISTED IN SOLICITATION DOCUMENT. 9/29/22. 10:00 AM CST.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 28, 2022.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2022

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9 a.m. with the following members present: Carter, Frethem, McDonough, Ortega, Reinhardt and Chair MatasCastillo. Absent: McGuire. Also present were Ryan O’Connor, County Manager, and Sam Clark, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT – Read by Commissioner Frethem. AGENDA of September 6, 2022 was presented for approval. Motioned by Carter, seconded by Ortega. Unanimously approved. MINUTES of August 23, 2022 were presented for approval. Motioned by Ortega, seconded by Carter. Unanimously approved.

PROCLAMATION

Board of Commissioners – Proclamation: Luis Rosario, Ramsey County Assessor. Presented by Chair MatasCastillo. Discussion can be found on ar chived video.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEM

Human Resources – 2023 Regular Retiree Medical Insurance Renewal. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022205)

Human Resources – Terms of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Amer ican Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Council 5, Local 8-Assistant County Attorneys for the years of 2002, 2023 and 2024. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022-206)

Human Resources – Terms of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Ram sey County Technical Employees Association for the Years 2002, 2023 and 2024. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022-207)

Community Corrections – Joint Powers Agreement with the Metro East Consortium for Adult Basic Education Services. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022-208)

Property Tax, Records & Election Services – Sale of a Tax-forfeited Prop erty Located at 1179 Seminary Avenue West to the Housing and Redevel opment Authority of the City of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022-209)

Property Tax, Records & Election Services – Repurchase of a Tax-forfeited Property Located at 558 Arlington Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022-210)

Public Works – Speed Zone Study on Various Ramsey County Roads. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022211)

Workforce Solutions – Amendment #1 to the Master Grant Contract with Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for Em ployment Services. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022-212)

Economic Growth and Community Investment – Carryover of 2021 Proper ty Management Operating Funds into 2022 Budget. Motion by Frethem, sec onded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2022-213)

Board of Commissioners – Cancellation of the October 4 and November 1, 2022 Board meetings. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unani mously approved (B2022-214)

Human Resources – Revised Salary Grade for Seven Job Classifications in the Public Health, Women, Infant and Children Nutrition Job Series. Chair MatasCastillo motioned to table this item, seconded by McDonough. Unani mously approved. The item was tabled.

POLICY ITEM

County Manager’s Office – Presentation of the 2023 Supplemental Budget and Performances Measures. For information only. Discussion can be found on archived video.

COUNTY CONNECTIONS - Presented by County Manager, Ryan O’Con nor. Discussion can be found on archived video.

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

BOARD CHAIR UPDATE – Presented by Chair MatasCastillo. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADJOURNMENT – Chair MatasCastillo declared the meeting adjourned at 11:33 a.m. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 28, 2022.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT, DISTRICT COURT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-22-783

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

In re the Estate of: Thomas R. Swanson, a/k/a Thomas Richard Swanson, T.R. Swanson, Thomas Swanson, and Tom Swanson, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. a hear ing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated March 4, 2022 and for the appointment of Christopher J. Swanson, whose address is 8940 Neill Lake Road Unit D, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55347 as personal represen tative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

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

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

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

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

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

Date: September 9, 2022 BY THE COURT: Michael Upton, Court Administrator Armela Topalovic, Deputy Court Administrator Attorney for Petitioner: P. David Melchert Melchert Hubert Sjodin, PLLP 121 West Main Street, Suite 200 Waconia, MN, 55387

Attorney License No: 0249877

Telephone: (952) 442-7700

FAX: (952) 442-6166

Email: pdmelchert@mhslaw.com Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 21 and 28, 2022.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT, DISTRICT COURT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-22-783

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF CO-PERSONAL; REPRESENTATIVES AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In re the Estate of: David Phillip Ehlers, Decedent.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an amended application filed on August 24, 2022 for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s Last Will dated March 10, 2015 has been filed with the Probate Registrar, and the amended application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informall appointed the following: • Chad Andrew Ehlers, 16599 2nd Street North, Lakeland, MN 55043 • Stacy Lynn Erickson, 10967 235th Avenue Northwest, Elk River, MN 55330 as co-personal representatives of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, de visee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the co-personal represen tatives. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. §524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the co-personal representatives have full power to administrator the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate.

Any objections to the probate of the WIll, or to the appointment of the per sonal 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, subjext to Minn. Stat. §524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the persona representative or the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.

Date: August 29, 2022

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator

Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives: Hayley A. Howe Howe Law, PLLC P.O. Box 64 Afton, MN 55001

Attorney License No. 0402696 (612) 990-2870

hayley@hayley-howe.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 28 and October 5, 2022.

Hydrant Flushing

Weather permitting, City crews will begin hydrant flushing the week of September 26 in the area north of County Road F and the week of October 3 through the middle of October, for the area south of County Road F. This schedule may vary a few days either way. Please keep cars away from hydrants in these areas between the 8 am and 3 pm. Cloudy or discolored water may be present while hydrant flushing is taking place. There is no health risk with this water, and the cloudiness should clear up by letting your taps run. During this time you should be cautious when doing your laundry, especially whites. If you have any questions, please call Public Service Supervisor Ken LaCasse at 651.204.6053.

Waffle Breakfast

On Sunday, October 2, from 8am to 1pm, at the Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 East County Road F, the Vadnais Heights Lions Club is holding its Fall Belgian Waffle Breakfast! Check the City’s website for pricing and event details: cityvadnaisheights. com/waffles.

Vadnais Heights Community Blood Drive

The next Community Blood Drive is scheduled for October 11, 2022, noon to 6 pm, at the Vadnais Heights Commons. Registration is required and can be done online at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800 RED CROSS. For questions, contact Katie Everett at 651-204-6000 or katie.everett@ cityvadnaisheights.com.

Seeking Scarecrows

We are excited to be bringing back the Scarecrow Trail at Community Park this year. All are invited to enter a scarecrow creation and there is no fee to participate! We’ll have a trophy for each category (business, organization, resident), plus celebrate your award-winning scarecrow with lunch for the whole team ($150 max). All entries will be considered for the Mayor’s Choice Award, too! The Scarecrow Trail is a fun way to connect with the community, including a costume parade through the scarecrows during our annual Halloween Party. Scarecrows will be on display from October 27 -November 2. An entry form is required by October 20 and can be completed on our website: cityvadnaisheights.com/scarecrow.

New Basketball Court at Berwood Park Construction is complete at Berwood Park – stop by and check out our freshly surfaced full basketball court and tennis court. Come play and check out all our park amenities!

Elections and Voting

Information about early voting, absentee voting, candidates, etc. can be found by visiting Ramsey County’s elections website at https://www.ramseycounty.us/residents/ elections-voting.

Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online!

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¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios y noticias en línea!

Visit www.cityvadnaisheights.com or call 651.204.6000. | City Hall Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Council approves increased preliminary tax levy

BY NOELLE OLSON SHOREVIEW PRESS EDITOR

VADNAIS HEIGHTS — The Vadnais Heights City Council set a preliminary city tax levy of approximately $6.4 million, which constitutes a 12.87% increase over last year.

According to Finance Director Sundberg, the levy funds three separate categories of expendi tures — the general fund, capital improvements funds within the capital improvement plan (CIP) and debt service.

“The general fund budget is the main levy component, and it also has the largest increase,” Sundberg said. “This year we expanded the CIP to go to 10 years from five years in the past. The capital improvements fund, only one component of the CIP, is funded by taxes.”

The general fund is about $5.3 million, the capi tal project is $639,000 and the bonded debt is $474,453.

VHEDC celebrates community leaders

Sundberg explained that the general fund budget increase is due to staff salary adjustments based on staff salary study plus a 3.5% COLA, the Ram sey County Sheriff's contract, and annual mainte nance of parking lots and trails.

According to Sundberg, the city's sole outstand ing debt is for the North Service Center. This debt was refinanced in 2020, resulting in annual savings of approximately $44,000. The annually required levy will remain relatively constant until the debt is refinanced early or retired in 2034.

Enterprise funds like water, sewer and surface water are funded by user fees and do not impact the levy.

City Council member Greg Urban, who served as acting mayor at the Sept. 20 City Council meeting, said the increase to the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office and staff increases and wages are out of the city's control.

“Certainly, we are looking at a large tax increase this year, which nobody likes,” Urban said. “Based on feedback from residents, parks and trails are very important here, so we're contributing an extra $200,000 to maintain them.”

A public meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, at the City Council meeting. Sundberg said the levy can be lowered at that point, but not increased.

PHOTOS

The Peterson, center); and MME Group, Inc., recipient of the Community Partnership Award (accepted by President Phil Boeke, left)

HB Fuller COO Ted Clark, businessman, entreprenuer, inves tor, and author of “Shipping Clerk to CEO” was guest speaker at the VHEDC event.

VHEDC President Mike Pelto emceed the event, with assis tance from Executive Director Liz Moscatelli.

UPCOMING CLASSES - REGISTRATION REQUIRED

55+ Defensive Driving Classes

4-Hour Refresher, $35: 9/26, 5:30-9:30pm online | 10/13 9am1pm | 10/14 12-4pm

8-Hour Full Class $45: 10/26 & 27, 9am-1pm in person or online

Tai Chi Mon, 9/26-11/21 | 8-9pm

Willow Tree Painting 9/30 | 10am-12pm | $20

Vinyasa Yoga 10/4-11/8 | 5:15-6:15pm | $70

The Loon: Bob Ross Style Oil Painting 10/5 | 5:30-9:30pm | $60

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 the 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

Mahtomedi Evening Star Quilters - FREE

Meeting: October 25; 5:30-8:30 PM

We help you get back to living. step of the way.

Bingo: FREE! October 31, 1:30-3:00 PM. Please bring items to

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

• Aquatic Therapy

REQUIRES REGISTRATION: MAHTOMEDI.CE.ELEYO.COM

• COMMUNITY LUNCHEON: $10

October 5, Noon - 1:00 PM. Great food (catered by Roma) andmusical entertainment Michael August Shumacher.

• Foundation for Retirement - $49

Two-day course. Session 1: October 3 & 10, 6:30-9:00 PM

Session 2: October 11 & 18, 6:30-9:00 PM

• Senior Housing Day, Fri, Oct 7, 2-6pm at Senior Center: Thinking about moving or wondering if you should? Join us for a one stop shop opportunity to hear about Senior Housing in the White Bear area. Housing representatives will be on hand to answer questions about their properties, amenities and services.

• History Class - “The 22nd and 24th President” (GroverCleveland) - $18

October 10 OR October 12, 10:00 AM-Noon

• DAY TRIP! South St. Paul Air Museum + Lunch at Cossetta’s - $20

October 12, Bus departs at 10:00 AM, returns at 3:00 PM. Self-guided tour of Fleming field in South St. Paul followed by lunch atCossetta’s Italian Market.

• Adult Conversational Spanish (Online class: Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced) - $125

Beginning October 17; various options for day of week/time. Seewebsite for more information.

• 55+ Drivers Safety 4-Hour Refresher Class - $35 October 19, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM

• Everything You Want to Know About Medicare - $10 October 19, 6:30-8 PM

• A Quilters Country Fair: Quilt Show - $5 October 21, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM and October 22, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM

• Storytelling and Science: Lessons in Skin Care - FREE October 24, 6:00-7:30 PM

• 55+ Driver Safety Class 8-Hour Basic Course (virtual/online)- $45 October 26 & 27, 9:00AM-1:00 PM (must attend both class dates)

• Adult-Child ‘Paint Date’ - $60/pair October 28, 6:00-8:00 PM at Mahtomedi Middle School

• Cookie Monsters: Adult-Child Baking Class - $40/pair + $14food fee

We help you get back to living. Every step of the way.

• Occupational Therapy

• Physical Therapy

• Speech Pathology

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

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.

1900

October 29, 9:00 AM-Noon at White Bear Lake High School If you have any questions, please call 651-407-2024.

We help you get back to living. Every step of the way.

2ND HALF WITH LYNGBLOMSTEN: ENRICHING LIVES AFTER 50 NEW class dates and NOW VIRTUAL! Powerful Tools for Caregivers- Designed for informal caregivers supporting someone 60+. This class will give you the tools you need to take better care of yourself while caring for others. Class meets virtually on Tuesdays, October 11-November 15, 1:00-2:30 p.m. Call 651-6325320 to reserve your spot or visit our website to learn more: www. lyngblomsten.org/community-services/wellness-education/

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.

The Gathering respite program is held Thursdays 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 family caregiver. Contact us ay 651632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org to learn more. We’re also looking for volunteers to help out with The Gathering! If you would like to volunteer in your community with The Gathering, join us via Zoom for an information session on October 6 at 3:00 p.m. Contact Melanie Jagolino at 651-632-5499 or mjagolino@ lyngblomsten.org to get the link or for more details.

• Aquatic Therapy

• Occupational Therapy

• Physical Therapy

• Speech Pathology

Group eRespite is held on Friday mornings online via Zoom. Group eRespite provides one hour of engaging, creative activities for those experiencing early- to mid-stage memory loss. For more information, contact Caregiver Services at 651-632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org.

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

Visit www.lyngblomsten.org/2ndHalf or call 651-632-5330 to learn more about our programs and supportive services.

• Aquatic Therapy

• Occupational Therapy

• Physical Therapy Speech Pathology

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

1900 Webber Street White Bear Lake, MN 55110

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2022

EDITORS NOTE

THIS WEEK WE PRESENT PART I OF THE 2022 VOTERS’ GUIDE, WHICH INCLUDES SUBMISSIONS BY CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL POSITIONS, AND THE MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD. PART II OF THE VOTERS’ GUIDE WILL BE PUB LISHED IN NEXT WEEK’S WHITE BEAR PRESS, AND WILL INCLUDE INFORMATION ABOUT CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR THE MINNE SOTA SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. THE FULL 2022 VOTERS’ GUIDE WILL BE AVAILABLE OCT. 5 AT PRESSPUBS.COM

BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE MAYOR

Michael McKenzie Age: 61

City of residence: Birchwood

Occupation: Teacher ISD #624 – Government & Economics WBLAHS

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

A. Birchwood has a very long and distinguished history of civic involvement and volunteerism.

The outgoing mayor and council members have quite literally work collectively for thousands of hours helping run our city. My first priority is

James Nelson

Age: 66 City of residence: Birchwood

Occupation: Gas fitter, steam fitter, plumber, fireplaces – gas

List most recent civic involvement roles: Served on Park Board, community volunteer

to continue that spirit and those efforts to keep the city on the right track and promote civic involvement. My second priority is to promote transparent and simple processes so residents can easily follow and navigate our various codes and ordinances. Third, I want to explore, and likely reconstitute, our citizen advisory committees. I’m a firm believer in the fact that “many hands make lighter work” coupled with “more people leads to more ideas”.

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

A. By developing citizen advisory committees around the various large decision areas. I’d clarify their responsi

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

A. • The village of Birchwood shall not infringe on any resident’s right to free speech.

• Less government Intrusion on what homeowners can do on their own property (I.E. Very heavy-handed approach to the city’s tree policy!) Many homeowners are upset with the city’s tree person trespassing on their property. There are also complaints that the city’s tree person is pitching his relative tree service company.

3. Change the city’s present policy on variances and building permits to be in line with its neighboring cities.

BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2

Ryan Hankins

Age: 43 City of residence: Birchwood

Occupation: Software engineer

List most recent civic involvement roles: Birchwood Planning Commission, Utility Com mittee and Subdivision Task Force

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

A. We must modernize our planning and zoning and permitting processes and eliminate admin istrative overhead by moving our most common requests online. One past option for us has been to outsource some of our needs to a neighboring city; currently, neither White Bear Lake nor any other nearby municipality has capacity to provide our planning services. Instead, we must carefully audit our own processes to ensure we are getting the best value from our contracted staff.

I will prioritize making our parks and beaches attractive places people want to visit. Measures like removing the unused grill and baseball back

Katherine Weier

Age: 40

City of residence: Birchwood

Occupation: Account Manager

List most recent civic involvement roles: I have volunteered for the last two years in con nection to the Fourth of July festival in Birch wood Village, and am currently on a committee for the Community Club as well in Birchwood.

How to vote early

By mail

To vote by mail, apply to have an absentee ballot mailed to you. You do not need to be registered to apply.

For your ballot to count, remember this important information:

• Read the instructions that come with your ballot carefully.

bilities, help them develop a shared decision/consensus framework, and then have the council support their decisions.

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

A. Birchwood is a residential community and as such, has no retail or business tax base. That means we have to be vigilant when setting tax rates and spending collected taxes. We have to make sure spending decisions take into account “out-year” costs, not just initial costs. We have to continue to explore when we can partner with other local communities to share services and associated costs.

Take the city out of the building process and give it to the professionals. Like possible to WBL - Building Dept & Use their established criteria.

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

A. Ask the public to come and express themselves at the council meeting or contact me directly.

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

A. Less government is better. Treating each other like they are a member of your own family.

stop at Tighe Schmitz will go a long way.

I hope to use my experience in critical areas of Birch wood government to create a smooth transition to a new mayor and council, and simply to make sure that what has been working well isn’t interrupted, and that we make improvements from there.

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

A. We must become more responsive to the needs of our residents. Birchwood is a place where people live, and the decisions local government makes need to prioritize residents’ needs and not create unnecessary burdens. We should create avenues for residents to easily provide feedback, including on our website and in town hall meetings. With a completely new council since 2020, we have the opportunity to spread responsibility more evenly among our elected officials and emphasize resident feedback in decision-making.

We must also broaden participation in village govern ment, so that in two or four years, we have residents who are able and interested in running a small town; the most important thing we can do for our village is to create ways future leaders can learn the ropes. We should

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

A. Help maintain / build our community events includ ing the Fourth of July festival. Working to add function ality to our parks and shared spaces with community input for capital improvement plans. Helping to improve the health of our natural spaces including the clean up of Halls Marsh.

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

A. I am a large proponent of newsletters, surveys and open forums. These methods will allow the council to

create at least one committee with some autonomy and a budget, and ask residents how they would like to be involved.

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

A. Birchwood has been run with budget-consciousness in mind. The city council needs to continue that financial stewardship, but we must also maintain water and sewer and invest responsibly in roads and parks. We must replace our Wildwood Park lift station, and shepherding our application for nearly $400,000 of federal funding through Congressional approval will pay the majority of that expense. We must understand why the lift station lasted for only 20 years of its expected 50-year lifespan, and avoid similar expensive failures that raise property tax bills. We must refine and improve our planning pro cesses, and figure out how we can serve residents’ needs without the bureaucracy of a larger city.

The City Council must weigh every decision it makes, asking what is in the best interests of the community. Not everyone will agree with every decision, but we must explain why each choice makes sense.

request input for our community projects, which I hope to use when reviewing major decisions.

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

A. The City Council can add opportunities for commu nity engagement and adjust current services to allow citizens to take advantage of our resources. Ideally with advanced planning it should be possible to prepare for large expenditures to minimize the need for increased tax burdens. As Birchwood Village does not have any busi nesses within our boundaries, it is imperative to work within our budget and plan ahead as much as possible.

• You will need a witness when you vote and complete your ballot. The witness can be either a registered Minnesota voter or a notary.

• Return the ballot and forms right away after you finish. Your ballot will not count if it is received after Election Day.

In person

All voters have at least one location where they can vote early in person with an absentee ballot. Depending on where you live, there may be additional locations.

• You can vote in person at your county election office.

• In addition, you may be able to

vote at your city office. Contact the clerk for more information.

For most elections, absentee voting locations must be open during their normal business hours starting 46 days before the election.

In addition, locations offering absentee ballots for federal, state or county elections must be open:

• The last Saturday before Election Day (10 a.m. — 3 p.m.)

• The day before Election Day until 5 p.m.

• Some local jurisdictions may provide additional absentee voting days or hours beyond the above required days and times. Call your jurisdiction for more information.

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2022

DELLWOOD MAYOR

Michael (Mike) McGill

Age: 64

City of residence: Dellwood

Occupation: Businessman / attorney

List most recent civic involvement roles: 2001-2017 Treasurer for City of Dellwood 2017-2018 City Council for City of Dellwood 2018-present Mayor for City of Dellwood

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

A. The roads in Dellwood have deteriorated sig nificantly in the past few years. The City Council is committed to repairing and maintaining the roads in a fiscally responsible manner. Our engi neers and city staff are currently working toward a viable plan to be implemented in 2023.

Greg Boosalis

Age: 64 City of residence: Dellwood

Occupation: Attorney

List most recent civic involvement roles: Dellwod City Council : City Council Member since 2019, Hmong Family Council Law Enforcement Delegation - 2022 / Visited the Hmong Refugee camps Thailand/ Aug 2022, Working with Lake Links Association for potential bike lane/path through Dellwood.

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

A. My top priorities are: health and safety, fiscal responsibility and maintaining great city services for the citizens of Dellwood.

Health and Safety: With over 27 years of Law Enforcement experience as an investigator and

The City Council and the mayor need to keep our resi dents informed and involved in the issues and decisions that need to be made on behalf of the city. I am commit ted to keeping our residents informed and providing an opportunity for them to express their views and get involved with the issues that are important to them.

The City Council and mayor need to stay fully informed regarding city-related issues and all available op tions. Whenever possible, the council should be proactive in dealing with foreseeable problems and expenses facing the city. The council needs to carefully study the issues and alternatives and provide effective management of the city affairs.

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

A. I feel that the public needs to be allowed to participate in all major decisions made by the City Council. To this end, I plan to post information on the city’s website,

DELLWOOD CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2

administrator, my objective is to stop an overflow of crim inal activity from entering Dellwood.

Fiscal Responsibility: I am very careful about making sure the tax payers dollars are not frivolously spent. The City Council conducts a very careful analysis of utiliza tion of tax dollars, and to make sure that tax dollars are spent wisely. I continue to work with the other members of the City Council to avoid tax increases.

City Services: My objective is to maintain the excellent relationship that the city enjoys with its contractors and employees, thus ensuring that such excellent services are continued for the citizens of Dellwood.

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

A. Total transparency is my objective in governance. To do that end, the entire City Council tries to assure that all proper notifications regarding meetings, and noti fication of potential contentious issues are sent to the public. Personally, I welcome the residents of Dellwood to call me, meet with me or send an email with issues of

provide periodic mailings to the residents, and schedule meetings with residents when appropriate. I also encour age residents to attend City Council Meetings, which are held on the second Tuesday of every month.

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

A. The City Council’s job is to stay informed regarding city-related issues and provide sensible, fiscally-responsi ble management of the city’s problems and opportunities as they occur. Dellwood is almost entirely funded by the resident’s property taxes, so the City Council is very aware that we need to be careful and conservative regard ing city expenditures. All large expenditures have a real impact on our resident’s property taxes, so we need to carefully evaluate and prioritize every decision. A City Council that is well informed, deliberative, and fiscally responsible will promote Dellwood’s prosperity now and in the future.

Jeff Giefer

Age: 55 City of residence: Grant

Occupation: IT Professional

List most recent civic involvement roles: citizen’s

John Rog

Age: 58

City of residence: Grant

Occupation: Engineering and Six Sigma Consultant

List most recent civic involvement roles: I have been on the Grant City Council since 2018. Before that I served as Chairman of the Planning Commission for Grant from 3/2017-12/2018 and Vice Chairman from 5/2016-3/2017.

Quick Links:

View elections

concern. For highly contentious issues, an elevated level of written, electronic and publications can be utilized to make sure Dellwood residents are aware of issues in their community. For the most contentious issues, referendums can be utilized to allow Dellwood residents to take a direct vote on an issue.

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

A. First, make sure that Dellwood is vigilant of the grow ing crime threat, and establish methods to deter crime from the city of Dellwood. Second, maintain the excellent city services that the city currently enjoys. Third, contin ue to maintain complete transparency with the citizens of Dellwood. Four, keep tax increases to a minimum. Five, maintain excellent roadways and maintenance, and if possible establish a bike path or expansion of roadway shoulders to allow for greater safety of bikers and/or pedestrians.

DELLWOOD CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE BRADY RAMSAY DID NOT RESPOND.

GEM LAKE CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2 CANDIDATES LEONARD CACIOPPO AND JAMES LINDNER DID NOT RESPOND.

GRANT CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2

wisely. The City of Grant is maintaining historically low tax increases of 3% annually, despite the current rate of inflation being much higher at ~ 8.3%.

Retain rural character of Grant – maintain 5 acre mini mum lot size, 10 acre density, and current zoning.

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

A. I would encourage all of our citizens to attend Grant City Council meetings and public hearings, which are posted on the City’s website: https://www.cityofgrant.us/. Every City Council meeting is started by soliciting public input where residents are encouraged to share concerns,

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

A. My top 3 is to preserve the “home in the country “ lifestyle of Grant , which includes no sewer and water. I would make sure we only pass use (conditional and inter im ) permits that I wouldn’t mind if they were next to my property. And I would use our budget very wisely to give the most value to the citizens of Grant.

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

A. Grant engages the community with public comments on all major decisions. Residents can email me directly

provide input, and ask questions. Additionally, the con tact information for the Mayor, Council members, and city staff are all listed on the City’s website so residents can share concerns and ask questions via phone or email.

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

A. Work to maintain the quality of rural life that our residents enjoy, ensuring Grant continues to be a comfort able place to live and raise a family. Continue to be fis cally responsible with our citizens’ tax dollars to provide maximum benefit with our minimal tax base.

from the Grant website, as my email is listed, when they have a concern. It’s a great way for them to have their voices heard. I always like hearing from the residents either way!

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

A. We are at a disadvantage to cities that have 5000 resi dents, as they receive state gas tax funds for road repairs.

I recommend working with state legislators to also re ceive these funds. I believe that we are here at the citizens request to be good listeners. I will do my best to make the citizens of Grant proud of their vote for me!

Request an absentee ballot at mnvotes.gov/absentee

View a sample ballot at mnvotes.gov/myballot

Find your polling place at mnvotes.gov/pollfinder

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2022

PINE SPRINGS MAYOR

CANDIDATE RANDILYNN CHRISTENSEN DID NOT RESPOND.

PINE SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2

Patrick Kinney

Age: 65 City of residence: Pine Springs

Occupation: Realtor

List most recent civic involvement roles: City Council - Active since 2017, Valley Lights Volunteer - Rockpoint Church, Fundraising for Young Life

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

A. Public Keeping things pretty much the same, low taxes, low government involvement and being fiscally responsible to the citizens. Major decisions should be communicated to the residents by mailings and/or our city website. Both of these were done recently as we did a search for interim Mayor this year.

Q. What can the city do in the next 5 years to help the city prosper?

A. Being a small city, we will need to find alternative sources of income to be able to fund deferred projects/ maintenance as well as keeping the taxes low.

Conrad Adams

Age: 61 City of residence: Pine Springs

Occupation: Contractor

List most recent civic involvement roles: Created budget for street Maintenance, Removal of a tree from road right away, facilitated repair for damaged road way, and did a handstand in a drop basin to determine remedy for repairing.

Mike Krachmer

Age: 63

City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: Retired Community Service Director

List most recent civic involvement roles: Habitat for Humanity Build Volunteer, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator, 2020 Election Judge

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

A. City government that is transparent, respon sive, and inclusive. My vision of community is that all of us are WE and there are no Them. I want to create opportunities for engagement with all residents so they feel like stakeholders who are heard and informed. Safe Communities: A safe community is a place where we know and respect

Joe Scrocca

Age: 50

City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: High School teacher

List most recent civic involvement roles:

I’ve served our nation all over the world as an ac tive duty Army officer for the last 28 years. I have a master’s degree in Public Administration and am a former Assistant Professor of American Politics at the United States Military Academy at West Point. I’m a firm believer in servant leadership - that leaders exist to serve others, and I want to bring those values to our city government.

Greg Urban

Age: 36

City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: Business Owner

List most recent civic involvement roles: Deputy Mayor 2020-Current, Vadnais Heights City Council Member 2017-Current, Vadnais Heights Planning Commission 2009-2017

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

A. Public safety needs to be our priority, the crime we are seeing coming into our community is affecting our quality of life and needs to be stopped. I have been endorsed by Ramsey County

PINE SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL AT LARGE - SPECIAL ELECTION

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

A. Maintain our Independence, Fiscal viability, and prop erly maintain our streets.

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

A. Listen to the concerns of the public and come up with common sense solutions.

VADNAIS HEIGHTS MAYOR

our neighbors. I want all of us to live in neighborhoods where we feel protected and secure. I will generate more opportunities to connect our citizens to each other and to our government. A Vadnais Heights that is Clean, Green and Resilient: We must act locally to have an impact globally. I will strongly promote that Vadnais Heights joins the Minnesota Green Step Cities program. We can improve the health and safety of our citizens through infrastructure design and planning that takes advantage of public involvement and new technologies.

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

A. I plan to engage citizens as stakeholders in the issues that are important to their quality of life. I will be an advocate for systems and processes of decision making that are transparent and respectful to all of our citizens.

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

A. My top three priorities are ensuring public safety; delivering top-notch services, to include roads, parks, and education that provide the quality-of-life our citizens deserve; and retaining and attracting the businesses our community needs and wants.

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

A. The public already has a great opportunity to get involved in regular council meetings during its open fo rum every other week. I would also like to make it easier for citizens to reach out to me directly through email or social media to voice their concerns and recommend

Sheriff Bob Fletcher, Confirming my commitment to Public safety.

Residents have made clear they support lower density owner occupied housing. Future developments need to be considered based on the input of residents. We need to stop the purple line bus route from sending its 90 buses into our city each and every day, it does not make sense for our community at this time.

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

A. Public input is a cornerstone of our current deci sion-making process. Over the past few years, Vadnais Heights was one of the only cities to allow public input at our council meetings. In addition, we provide many ways

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

A. Work on Development of the Southwest quadrant and properly invest in our largest asset, which is our streets.

Government of, for, and by, the people is an ideal that we can intentionally pursue. I will make myself available regularly to listen to the concerns of the community, and facilitate participation.

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

A. A thorough review of the comprehensive plan and budget are critical to setting the course of the city. We need to understand the role we have to play in the north east metro and the changing economic and environmen tal dynamics that represent opportunities and challenges. We can play our role to address climate concerns, public safety, and a more equitable society. I believe we can inte grate these greater goals in a plan that can grow our tax base and improve quality of life for all of our citizens.

solutions that will benefit the entire community.

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

A. Public safety is my top priority. As a husband and the father of three young children there is nothing I won’t do to protect them. As mayor, there should be nothing our city won’t do to protect our citizens. We must strive to reinvigorate the neighborhood watch programs so neighbors are looking out for neighbors. City government also plays an important role in attracting business to the community. This is one of my top priorities as well. It helps provide good jobs and tax revenue our city needs to provide the services our citizens want.

for the public to stay informed as well as be able to pro vide input on upcoming city actions. Examples include: social media, newsletters, booths at events.

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

A. The City of Vadnais Heights is one of the most desir able places in the metro to live. A recent survey indicated that 97% of our community view us as a welcoming place and 93% view the quality of life as good or excellent. This is due in part to the policies I have been part of creating during my 14 years on the planning commission and city council. If elected as our next Mayor, I will continue with my policies that have made Vadnais Heights a great place to live.

PINE SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE V. CHRISTOPHER KARDASHIAN DID NOT RESPOND.

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2022

VADNAIS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2

within the city.

Curt S. Cooper

Age: 56

City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: Vice President and CFO of Cooper & Cooper Consulting LLC

List most recent civic involvement roles: Vice Chairman of Vadnais Heights Planning Com mission; member since 2017, Committee Member of Vadnais Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan; 2018 -2019, Scoutmaster, Vadnais Heights BSA Scouts Troop 9212 since 2016

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

A. Improvement of our parks and recreational areas to capitalize on the natural beauty at the heart of Vadnais Heights, as well as improve the road condition and trails structure internally

Katherine Doll Kanne

Age: 34 City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: Principal Regulatory Affairs Specialist at Abbott

List most recent civic involvement roles: I am engaged with our community through volun teer work with the Vadnais Lakes Area Watershed Management Organization (VLAWMO, Volunteer of Year in 2021).

I have served for the past two years on the City of Vadnais Height’s Planning Commission.

I am also a member of the County Road E Cor ridor Revitalization Project Team. I enjoy being involved in our community and I want to serve at the next level: City Council.

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

A. Communicate with residents on budget chal lenges due to inflation and what investments are necessary to maintain the current level of service. We need to continue making smart, strategic plans for expenditures, particularly in a high-in flation economy.

Develop a Parks Master Plan and sustainable park funding sources. Parks are currently funded

Kelly Jozwowski

Age: 42 City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: Industrial sales

List most recent civic involvement roles: I am currently the Vice Chair of the Vadnais Heights Park, Recreation, and Trails Commission where we review, discuss, research, and make recommendations to City Council. I’m also on the subcommittee for Best Landscape Practices which has successfully implemented new rain and pol linator gardens. And in keeping with my values, I am a Ramsey County Recycling Ambassador with a passion for reducing waste and sharing knowl edge with neighbors. I also volunteer with my children’s orchestra, dance, and soccer when the opportunities arise.

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

A. Fiscal responsibility: Council needs to be trans parent when setting strategic and fiscal goals. We

Patricia Youker

Age: 61 City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: Small business owner

List most recent civic involvement roles: incumbent City Council Member of Vadnais Heights, sit on the board (treasurer) of VLAWMO (Vadnais Lakes Area Water Management). I was in support of the Big Wood Brewery and sat on the task force for Garceau property. The first 2-years of my term I was the planning commission liaison and currently part of the Vadnais Heights Com mons Advisory Committee.

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

A. As a current board member of Vadnais Lakes Area Water Management, conservation and the health of our planet is my passion. I will continue

Working with businesses and community to ensure proper balance of housing and business growth meet our future needs in making Vadnais Heights a relevant and vibrant community.

Public safety is a priority. By working with our city fire department and EMS, Ramsey County Sheriff, and our local community leaders on police, emergency responder and public works initiatives for the improvement of our community.

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

A. I would have community involvement by having open lines of communication with any community member at any time through social media, email and correspon dence. I will answer correspondence in a timely fashion to meet the concerns of our citizens and be inclusive of their desires and ideas. On larger projects I would use

using a Park Dedication Fund that only developers contribute to. Our city is nearly built out so this funding source is not sustainable. Our parks are important, so we need a transition plan to sustainable funding sources.

Join the GreenStep City Program. Mahtomedi, Shor eview, WBL and other neighboring cities have benefited from this program. This go-at-your-own-pace program focuses on cost savings, energy efficiency and innovation. The Council determines the actions (“Steps”) and pace of participation in the program. We can form a volun teer-run Environment Commission to identify energy efficient cost saving opportunities and provide recom mendations to Council.

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

A. We can improve public meeting notifications and better utilize City Commissions. Agendas for public meetings are posted in advance, but that places the burden on citizens to check the city website or newspaper regularly for events of interest. There have been several instances at Planning Commission meetings that I have heard, “Sorry, I am still processing this as I just found out today.” We can improve notifications of public meetings. Two options are updating city code to broaden the mailed notice range beyond the current 350 feet requirement and creating e-mail subscriptions for interested parties to opt-in to notification of events based on an interest area

need to focus on being responsible with our levy to allow for reasonable increases for capital projects which have gone ignored for too long.

Environment: Vadnais Heights needs to become a GreenStep City. Once in the program, we’ll have better access to grants and in turn, our sustainability initia tives. Actions I plan to take include energy and water conservation, connecting our trail systems, and maintain and improve our parks.

Diversity, equity and inclusion: Our last city survey shows 80% of respondents hold creating a “diverse, inclusive and fair community” as a priority. I will orga nize initiatives including a Human Rights Commission to improve cultural competency and racial equity, and partnering with our local schools to engage our youth in the future of our community.

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

A. I plan to focus on community engagement in large decisions by working with a Human Rights Commission. Right now, there are residents who are underrepresented

my work on the watershed board to keep our water clean, plentiful, and moving smoothly.

Keeping taxation in check, while ensuring our needs as a city are met.

Continue to address resident concerns to find solutions that bring us together.

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

A. Block Captains are an underutilized resource to provide communication to the residents. As an example, currently the most pressing and major decision is BRT Purple Line which is being proposed to run directly down County Road E starting at the park and ride west of 35E to 61 then southward into St. Paul. This is something residents are not aware of and need to be brought into the process. My proposal is to reach out to all block captains in Vadnais Heights, provide information in electronic and pamphlet form to help spread the word, we need everyone’s input.

public open house forums such as we did for the 2040 Comprehensive Plan for the city of Vadnais Heights. These open houses would allow large public discussion and input for major initiatives or plans for the city from our community members.

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

A. City Council can work with business and economic developers to capitalize on investment initiatives such as senior care living facilities, restaurants, and living developments that support the projected growth of housing for Vadnais Heights for the next five to ten years.

I will attempt to find the proper mix of a small town feel connected with nature while meeting the business and economic requirements of our community. By capitaliz ing on business and economic developments we can build financial revenue for the city which in turn will lead to improvements in our recreational areas, roads and trails.

(like Comprehensive Plan or zoning amendments, or PUD applications). Lastly, we have engaged and dedicated cit izens on our City Commissions. There should be discus sion of commission recommendations prior to Council taking a vote so it is clear the commission’s recommenda tions were considered.

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

A. The Council needs to do a better job balancing the goals of the VH 2040 Comprehensive Plan with citizen’s input when considering proposals for development and re-development. We need to apply appropriate pressure to developers to provide more community benefits when flexibilities (variances) to City Code are being requested.

Earlier and more thorough outreach to the community in these cases will help bring all interested parties to the discussion to achieve the best outcomes. Further, parks and trails are such a valued asset for this community. We need a Master Park Plan to provide the framework to maintain high value while we identify more sustain able park funding sources. Lastly, we need Council to provide clear direction to our City Commissions. Our Commissions are another avenue to communicate the public’s input to Council. Our Commissioners best serve our community when Council acknowledges and utilizes their input in city decisions.

and whose voices we have not heard. We need to do better to make sure that everyone feels welcome to attend meet ings and their thoughts and ideas will be valued.

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

A. In order to grow as a city, Council needs to review the Comprehensive Plan and thoughtfully consider all aspects of what makes Vadnais Heights a great place to live. Our ongoing infrastructure maintenance and up grades need to be strategically planned out and budgeted for. We are a beautiful green city and we need to cele brate our diverse culture. Council has done a good job of representing businesses, but it is also necessary to focus on the residents. Development is important but so is quality of life. I know we can do better to encourage more community involvement and get folks to work together. Vadnais Heights is known for our parks and trails so let’s highlight them. Environmental initiatives like becoming a GreenStep City will ensure our commitment to the fu ture generations who will live, work and play in Vadnais Heights.

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

A. During my 4-year term on City Council, I have made many positive impacts for the residents of the city. I have studied every proposal and voted as if it was my money and security being impacted. It is my belief that a wellrun city ensures that its infrastructure - streets, parks and water utilities are properly maintained making citi zens proud of our community. I put high priority on fund ing emergency services and police to keep crime in check, and providing an atmosphere conducive for business and as well as the safety of our residents. These three core areas are the bedrock of why our government was created. I know my place in government while supporting residents’ concerns and balancing those concerns with the overall health of our city. I will always advocate for property rights and the lowest possible taxation, thereby letting the residents elevate their quality of life.

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2022

VADNAIS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2

Jerry Moynagh

Age: 61 City of residence: Vadnais Heights

Occupation: Vice President Business Banker of Deerwood Bank

List most recent civic involvement roles: Current 4 years-Vadnais Heights Planning Com mission, knowledge of the city codes, approval pro cess, strength areas, and special city challenges, Current 4 years-Vadnais Heights Lions Club-ser vice to the community, 6 years as Past Chairman for the Vadnais Heights Area Community Foun dation until 12/31/2020, $10,000 annually distrib uted by VHACF towards their mission benefiting education, basic human need, culture

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

A. Always at top of mind are increased property values, maximizing services, while at the same time minimizing property taxes. Ensure proper maintenance of Vadnais Heights’ assets (roads, parks, equipment, and real estate).Work with city

staff on enhancing programs, utilizing best practices, and financial line item management.

Strong proponent for public safety and security-police, fire, paramedic. Create new ways to partner with the local Ramsey County Sheriff Department and other local police departments to limit violence and crime. Further focus on recognition for excellence in service and valor. Increase communication with the local schools in order to create new and enhanced paths for employing our VH citizens via training, mentorship, recruiting, and placement methods. Continue to protect the beauty and natural feeling of the Vadnais Heights community via increased linkage to the park and trail system

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

A. In the investigation stage and prior to any public meeting, I would use various communication methods to reach out to the VH citizens to receive and exchange information, look at outside citizen research, utiliz ing phone, email, Facebook, Instagram, and good old fashioned in-person meetings and site visits. Typically, I reply professionally within 24 hours to any reasonable request for communication. Work with city staff to make all available information visible for public consumption, utilizing the city website and collaboration with local

resources. During public meetings, I would listen closely to citizen thoughts and reasoning. Communication would again open until such time as the decision must be made. All thoughts and information would be given proper vetting before the decision is made. Ensure that any fol low-up will be complete and timely following the decision.

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

A. It is critical that all VH City Council members work closely and collaboratively with the Mayor and city staff in order to accomplish its goals in an effective and timely manner. Continue to tweak the Vadnais Heights 5 year plan, then execute on that plan, taking into consider ation the changing economic and cultural environments. When setting the annual city budget, take proper care to consider both the short and long term ramifications of said budget. Ensure the budget ties to VH city priorities such as increased property values, minimized taxes, en hanced programs, safety and security requirements, and continued protection of the beauty and natural feeling of the Vadnais Heights community via increased linkage to the park and trail system. We need to listen to all of the stakeholders with vested interest in the success of Vad nais Heights… taxpaying residents and businesses, city staff, and the qualified, licensed and educated experts.

CANDIDATES TIM KELVIE AND KELLY WHEATON DID NOT RESPOND.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

TOWN BOARD SUPERVISOR SEAT A - CANDIDATE STEVE RUZEK DID NOT RESPOND.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

TOWN BOARD SUPERVISOR SEAT B - ELECT 1

Ronald “Ron” Denn

Age: 57 City of residence: White Bear Township

Occupation: IT project manager

List most recent civic involvement roles: White Bear Township Planning Commission Chair, Suburban Cable Commission Treasurer, Volunteer with Boy Scouts of America

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

A. First, I want to see White Bear Township maintain its independence and individuality. I feel the township can offer the members of our community a sense of a small town while navigat

Scott McCune

Age: 63

City of residence: White Bear Township

Occupation: Manager Reporting, Optum

Financial, UnitedHealth Group

List most recent civic involvement roles: Elected to the Township Board of Supervisors in 2018, Chair emeritus on the Board of Directors for the White Bear Area Food Shelf, Board Treasurer for Northeast Youth & Family Services, Active with the Township Utility Commission since 2014

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

A. First is continued fiscal stewardship through responsible tax levies and expenditures, and I have demonstrated operational discipline managing within Township budgets the last four years. Second is maintaining quality of life improvements in the Township through capital investment projects and municipal partnerships, and I have shown a strategic perspective focused

ing the complexities of being a member of a larger urban setting. Second, I want to see the vision of the residents of the Township reflected in the overall decisions. We need to keep our focus on our residents and their needs, wants and desires. Third I want to make sure we keep the township a safe, inviting, and friendly community that is interested in the welfare of our residents. The safety of the township residents needs to be a key focus.

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

A. I would seek new ways to engage and gather the thoughts, views, and feelings of the residents. We could utilize social media and online surveys to get a better feel for what is most important to our residents and how are decisions as community leaders are impacting their daily

on long-term benefits for residents and continued public safety for our community. Finally, is promoting resident and local business participation in Township govern ment, to ensure varied perspectives are heard in response to county-wide development projects, and I actively seek input to our various resident advisory boards.

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

A. Township governance embodies grass-roots democ racy in every aspect. Each year, residents at the Annu al Town Meeting and at the special Finance Meeting approve the tax levy, recommend a budget, and decide upon special questions prescribed by law. At every Board meeting, Open Time is set aside specifically for residents to voice their opinion on any topic, whether related to current issues, past decisions, or future plans. Finally, special advisory committees are made up entirely of resi dents, providing input and perspective to the Town Board on Utilities, Public Safety, Economic Development, Parks and Recreation, Planning, and Variances. I regularly en courage our neighbors to participate in these groups and

WILLERNIE

MAYOR CANDIDATE BARBARA PARENT DID NOT RESPOND.

lives. The interest of the residents is the foremost guiding force behind the way we make decisions about the future of the Township and where we are today.

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

A. Given that White Bear Township is substantially de veloped it is imperative that we remain good stewards of the resources in our community. We have natural resourc es we need to respect and cherish. We need to keep a focus on our lakes and development so that our decisions lead to a better future. My focus will be to keep the Township the strong thriving “small town” community that we can all enjoy for not just 5 years but all the years we choose to make it our home.

attend these meetings, make sure their voices are heard, and have the opportunity to actively get involved and make a difference in how our community evolves.

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

A. The Board has always taken a thoughtful process in governing the Township, whether setting tax levies, plan ning development, investing in infrastructure, or partner ing with other municipalities, all to ensure our residents can take pride in their community. This is most readily demonstrated in the current 10-year Pavement Manage ment Plan, which safeguards the condition of the 40+ miles of Township roads over the next few decades. In addition, investments are presently underway to protect our water quality by working with the MN Department of Health to meet or exceed their latest testing and treat ment guidelines. Finally, through our strategic partner ships with Ramsey County Sherriff and White Bear Fire we actively promote the public safety for our residents and allow them to enjoy a good quality of life here.

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2022

WILLERNIE CITY COUNCIL - ELECT 2

Patrick Miller

Age: 76

City of residence: Willernie

Occupation: Retired

List most recent civic involvement roles: Commander, Kramer- Berg post 507, American Legion, Willernie / Mahtomedi Honorary Board member, Mahtomedi Area Education Foundation [ MAEF ]/ Legion Scholarship Committee Promo tor, Friends of Willernie/ City of Willernie Golf Tournament

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

A. Continuing to search for the funding and resources for the city to help with the citizens tax burden and other expenses. Ensuring that all citizens are treated with the utmost respect and fairness. Making sure that all laws and ordinances do not allow discrimination.

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

A. If a decision will affect the entire city or a great share of it’ town hall sessions and forums would help provide

beneficial interactions low-up will be complete and timely following the decision.

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

A. Keep a careful watch on the budget, identify sources of revenue that may need to be adjusted without increas ing costs to residents and avoiding frivolous expenses.

Ryan Domin

Age: 43

City of residence: Grant

Occupation: Technology executive

List most recent civic involvement roles: I have not held any official civic/school role out side of volunteering for kids activities/sports and volunteering with varsity athletics.

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

A. My intent is to renew our district’s focus on Academics and provide our students with a world-class public education by being a voice for our community and an advocate for our students, parents, teachers and neighbors.

• Academic Achievement & Accountability - A data driven focus on the programs & strategies that restore Mahtomedi as the benchmark of educational excellence.

Paul Donna

Age: 55

City of residence: Hugo

Occupation: Public Finance Investment Banker

List most recent civic involvement roles: I was elected last November in a special election to serve a one-year term on the Mahtomedi School Board and am currently Treasurer. I am a past President of the Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation (MAEF) and a Trustee on the Mahto medi RBI Club (Mahtomedi high school baseball booster club). I was also a member of the planning team for the Mahtomedi Schools strategic plan process in 2019.

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

A. Learning recovery / improved student perfor mance: We must address our learning gap and strengthen our District’s high-quality education programs and foster our students’ academic growth through an approach which connects us. Transparency and public engagement: we all benefit from building a culture of transparency

Kevin Donovan

Age: 63 City of residence: Grant

Occupation: Retired - Development Director, Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation

List most recent civic involvement roles: White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce, Mahto medi School Board, Northeast Metro 916 School Board, Minnesota School Boards Association, Min nesota School Boards Association Insurance Trust, Century College Foundation - Board - former Pres ident, Lake Links Board - Governance Committee Chair, WBL Leadership Tomorrow - Co-Facilitator, WBL Food Shelf - Board Chair, White Bear Lake Rotary - Treasurer and President, Volunteer, Mahtomedi Schools, Scouts Pack 89, Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Review panel of U of M School of Education, MN Boychoir Board, White Bear Center for the Arts Board, TEDx Mahtomedi, Hill Legacy Award

MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER AT LARGE - ELECT 3

• Back to Basics - STEM, Language Arts, and Human ities intentionally focused on post-secondary preparation

• Connection-centric Curriculum - A focus on that which connects us: Community, Empathy, Kindness

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

A. My belief is the community needs opportunity for true dialogue with the School Board and the Administra tion – the ability to ask questions and seek clarification.

In addition to structured engagement sessions, I’m highly accessible within the community to listen and un derstand different viewpoints – My children attend school at OHA, Wildwood and the DEC, I’m at their schools and involved in their events. I attend church in Mahtomedi and I’m a proud alumnus that attends Varsity sports.

Being a 3rd generation Zephyr, I have a unique connec tion to the community at many stages of life allowing me to be a strong voice for the community. I plan to be acces sible with the intent of listening to understand and act on their behalf. I will also do my part to hold my fellow

and connectivity, creating a culture of sharing around the successes and struggles of educating our young peo ple and our vision for the future. Improving engagement among our excellent parents, teachers, staff, and students will help the district achieve the goals we establish.

Mental health and wellness: I will continue to support programs that help both students and teachers effectively manage life and educational stressors. Promoting student and staff wellness will help ensure the highest degree of learning for students, and job satisfaction for teachers.

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

A. When you implement tools and processes that allow for public input, you build trust and support for deci sions. Involving the families and public is crucial, it is who the board represents.

I will be committed to the following:

Consult with the public: provide opportunity for dia logue so mutual learning and idea generation can occur through focus groups and workshops.

Inform and involve the public: utilize fact sheets and conduct informational meetings and workshops. Place in terested members on advisory boards or groups; conduct polls.

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

A. Learning Recovery: We have seen a significant drop on MCA test scores after the pandemic. This is not unique to our district. All of the school districts around us, and ones that are comparable to us in the West Metro, experienced this drop in standardized scores. I believe we should use the Federal dollars our district has received to cover this added expense.

Fiscally Responsible: We need to continue to make Mahtomedi Schools fiscally sound with a high percent age of stakeholder money going into direct classroom instruction. Our school board has a long track record of being fiscally prudent and wise with taxpayer money.

Community Engagement: Community members should be informed of the work of their schools and be able to have a voice in their schools. We have begun meaningful parent/community dialogs to clearly hear stakeholder voice and to foster trust and transparency

board members accountable to be accessible and trans parent, to work on behalf of the wishes of our passionate community.

Q. How will you keep political biases from affecting the classroom?

A. The school board is intended to be a non-partisan po sition, as such, one of my guiding principles is a focus on that which connects us: Community, Empathy, Kindness. My sole goal and focus is to provide my three daughters, their classmates and all Zephyrs an opportunity for a world class education. I intend to ensure our board’s focus is solely on providing our incredible educators with the tools and resources necessary to equip our students for life after graduation – whether that be an opportunity to continue their education and pursue an undergraduate degree, or prepare them for a career in the trades and technology. We do this by focusing our district on the critical subjects that are not political and are needed in every walk of life - language arts, math, science, technol ogy and engineering.

Involve and collaborate with the public: re-consti tute existing and/or create new committees as needed with citizens who have advisory authority; use agree ment-building or participatory decision-making strate gies.

Q. How will you keep political biases from affecting the classroom?

A. I have discussed this topic with several current and past educators including my 89-year-old mother who taught first grade, third grade and special education for 20+ years. I have come to understand there is a longstand ing principle that public school teachers, as representa tives of the state, must not attempt to influence their stu dents’ political beliefs. As a member of the school board, I will keep political biases from affecting the classroom through enforcement of current school policies #505 and #698 and modify those same policies or implement new policy as warranted. In our current climate of political polarization, it is essential that educators be apolitical and refrain from imposing their personal views with students. The classroom should be a safe environment to explore politics and other controversial topics using facts and allow the students to form their own thoughts regard ing the topic, free of influence.

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

A. The Mahtomedi Schools community should be able to voice thoughts and opinions freely. Open lines of commu nication are paramount to trust and a feeling of engage ment. We are first and foremost Zephyrs. The community must feel a sense of trust and pride in our schools.

Q. How will you keep political biases from affecting the classroom?

A. As one on a board of six, we work at the board table to keep political biases out of our decision making process. What is best for students needs to be our focus. Personal ly, I have only one bias - it’s about giving exemplary learn ing opportunities to all of our students. Critical think ing skills are key and crucial in having well-informed students. A good public education is the cornerstone of our democracy.

WILLERNIE CITY COUNCIL ELECT 2 - CANDIDATES KATHERINE SIVER AND TAMMY SODERLUND DID NOT RESPOND.

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2022

MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER AT LARGE - ELECT 3

Kevin Hiniker

Age: 62 City of residence: Grant

Occupation: Finance attorney for over 35 years

List most recent civic involvement roles: Founding member and Board President of P.E.A.S.E. Community Foundation, an adolescent recovery non-profit organization. Member of In vestment Committee for Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation

Jenny Peterson

Age: 46

City of residence: Mahtomedi

Occupation: Teacher

List most recent civic involvement roles: I volunteer at both elementary schools in Mahto medi. I successfully organized and executed the 1st Annual Mahtomedi Mike Jacobs Memorial Golf Tournament this past June. I founded the Mahtomedi Kids Triathlon in 2020. I wear many hats at St Andrews Lutheran Church.

Mark Pollard

Age: 43

City of residence: White Bear Lake

Occupation: Business Development Manager for Financial Services Firm

List most recent civic involvement roles: I was a high school English teacher before moving with my wife to Minnesota 13 years ago. Since then, I spent roughly five years teaching citizen ship and English to adult learners in the Roseville School District. Now, as the father of a sevenyear-old Wildwood student and a nine-year-old OH Anderson student, I stay actively involved in their educational needs.

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

A. My first priority will be supporting the already existing and successful interventions that have made our district a state leader in recovery from COVID learning loss. Identifying areas of highest need, increasing access to summer programming, and listening closely to our teachers are things that must continue. However, I worry that an ill-informed push from some of my opponents to micromanage the curriculum might jeopardize these gains.

Second, we face a national teacher shortage. Record burnout is driving talent out of the pro fession. If we don’t make real efforts to show our

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

A. Focus on high-quality education for our students that includes not just the tools for their tool-box – reading, writing, math and science – but also the vital skills that our students need to know when using those tools for their future success and for our community – commu nication, critical thinking and compassion. Listen to, respect and support our educators by recognizing the challenges that teachers and the administration face, they are the education experts. Ensure that the School Board continues in its traditional role of setting expecta tions on District budget, finance and policies.

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

A. My priorities for the district are knowing and listen ing to families. As a 1994 Zephyr graduate, I am in tune with what this town values and the traditions that make this small town so close-knit.

I want all children educated to their full potential. Whether that be academically or whatever educational path he/she chooses.

I would like Mahtomedi Public Schools to again strive to be one of the top ranking schools in the state.

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

A. The best decisions follow from hearing the multiple points of view and experiences of all stakeholders, so it’s important to listen to and balance those when making major decisions. I am an eager listener and will be readi ly accessible to all residents.

Q. How will you keep political biases from affecting the classroom?

A. I’ll take my many years of experience of moderating to bring people with different views together and work collaboratively to ensure our classrooms are places of learning, not partisanship.

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

A. In regards to public input, parents should be able to ask questions and voice concerns at school board meeting. The process to do so should be easier and more welcoming.

Q. How will you keep political biases from affecting the classroom?

A. When I walk into a classroom, I only want to see the ABCs, maps, and other posters related to education. Re member when you did not know much about your teacher outside of school? I like that.

support to our skilled teachers, administrators, support staff, and paraprofessionals, the effects of this national crisis will hit home. Related to that support is my third priority: the mental health of our students and staff. As a school board member, I will do my part to find them the tools to navigate the struggles that impede learning.

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

A. I have the deepest respect for the public’s willingness and even responsibility to address their school board through public comments at board meetings, emails, and telephone. Those comments should be heard and hon ored, alongside the expert advice of education profession als and legal staff. All of that, plus each board member’s own research, should inform that member’s vote. But the public needn’t only be engaged in major decisions. The board I seek to serve on should be one that engages the community frequently. From my perspective as the father of two Mahtomedi elementary students, that is already happening. Barely a week goes by that the district news letter isn’t inviting me to take part in a survey, join the conversation on social media, or (more recently) attend

community engagement sessions. The flow of communi cation is open; I support that exchange and will work to see it grow.

Q. How will you keep political biases from affecting the classroom?

A. Society changes as diverse populations merge. A pub lic school board’s duty is accommodating the resulting variety of needs. After all, public schools aren’t for one group. They are for all who would attend them – by design and by law. A public school should never try to advance societal change for change’s sake. Their motivation must be supporting the needs of their current students while following the law. That has always required adapting to keep pace with cultural shifts, and specifically, with the needs of the communities they serve. Anything more or less would create something other than a public school

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

community, lending a Harry Potter costume to a neighbor for dress-as-a-book-character day at school, and so many more, demonstrate her commitment to those around her. JozWOWski is dedicated to this city, and we want the WOW in Vadnais Heights.

Brandi Fuglsby Vadnais Heights

PAID LETTER

Voters beware

PAID LETTER

Voters should be forewarned

I’ve lived in Vadnais Heights quite a while, and I’ve always known it as a quiet, laid-back suburb where people were neighborly but otherwise minded their own business. Then a couple of years ago, Heather Gustafson said no, that is not true, the city is full of hate. She wanted the city to create a permanent city commission to address her concerns.

At this point, you’d expect Ms. Gustafson to show evidence and proof of the need for her proposal. But when she and her partners came before the City Council, they never provided a single example of the hate she said existed in Vadnais Heights. The city’s inaction on her proposal was not acceptable to Ms. Gustafson.

Next came the name-calling. Ms. Gustafson felt if the City Council didn’t establish the commission, they were narrow-minded and hateful. She even resorted to submitting data practice requests (FOIA) for each City Council member’s emails to find something to embarrass them.

Armed with her Twitter account and her aliases (she sometimes uses an alias or previous names), she’s made herself the self-proclaimed moral con science of Vadnais Heights. The organization she founded, VH4Change, is the cudgel.

For our lovely city, Heather Gustafson has brought a new level of her own hate, anger and incivility. Without evidence of a problem, she believed she could berate and bully to get what she wanted done.

Add this to her public support of the Rush Line — 89 buses a day through downtown White Bear Lake and Vadnais Heights — and we’ve had a pre-taste of Heather Gustafson. Voters should be forewarned.

Thanks to redistricting, we now have the opportu nity to be represented by Roger Chamberlain, a man who will fight for what’s best for our community. Please vote to reelect Sen. Roger Chamberlain.

Jill Bowman Vadnias Heights

There is a dangerous DFL strategy trying to take over the Vadnais Heights City Council. During the last election, Steve Rogers and Eric Goebel were endorsed, supported and elected with support of the DFL and the “Vadnais Heights for Change” group. This year the group calling itself “Vadnais Heights for Change” is promoting Mr. Krachmer, Kather ine Kanne and Kelly Jozwowski. That means these candidates will support bad DFL policies like higher taxes, defunding the police, and more big government programs like the Purple Bus Line and critical race theory (CRT) for our kids. Katherine and Kelly are also supported by a group calling itself Coalition 624. This group supports radical DFL candidates that also support CRT. If these candidates are elected, they will bring the same failed DFL policies and crime that we are now seeing in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Voters need to be aware of who they are voting for and vote with an informed mind. A DFL-controlled Vadnais Heights will make us a mini-Minneapolis.

I plan on keeping Vadnais Heights a conservative city and council by voting for Greg Urban for mayor and Patricia Youker and Jerry Moynagh for City Council.

Nancy Johnson Vadnais Heights

our direction. Our girls wanted to know why those people were so mad at us. Fortunately, young children are easily distracted, and we quickly got them focused on the mechanics of giving out candy to the crowd!

My point is that I understand that emotions run high in this election, and we all want our point of view heard, but we must remember we are giving civ ics lesson to the next generation! I for one want that lesson to be that we can support our candidates and beliefs and still be respectful of others!

Andrew Cravero Lino Lakes

PAID LETTER

Voters have clear choice

Vadnais Heights voters have one clear choice for City Council: reelect Patricia Youker. I've seen her grow in her role as representative on the VLAWMO board of directors. She comes to meetings prepared to ask the tough questions, always keeping the best interests of her Vadnais Heights constituents in mind. With her guidance, the VLAWMO board can better meet its mission goals of improving the waters of not only Vadnais Heights, but within VLAWMO's bor ders. Patricia is a dedicated public servant who takes her role as City Council member seriously, and has earned your vote on election day.

James Lindner Gem Lake

PAID LETTER Rush Line

Residents in the White Bear Lake and surrounding area are familiar with the rejected Purple Line, aka Rush Line, proposed by the Met Council to run 89 buses, every 10 to 15 minutes daily, through down town White Bear Lake on Highway 61. This Rapid Bus Transit (RBT) plan was opposed and defeated by a united community. For years, White Bear Lake has worked to create a unique downtown, and this RBT plan would have affected and possibly destroyed local family and entrepreneurial businesses, choked a main driving artery and effectively removed the hometown experience* many have worked to main tain. (*WBL Main Street Inc. website)

Public transportation is needed, and I support and use bus and light rail options, but the plan needs to be smart for the area, and the Rush Line didn’t pass the test.

Will justice follow in the Mar-a-Lago scandal?

Ah! what a wondrous thing it is

To note how many wheels of toil

One thought, one word, can set in motion!

—“The Building of the Ship” by H. W. Longfellow (1869)

According to an interview on Fox News, ex-pres ident Trump declassified documents by his mere thought or word. But now that the litigation over classified documents is being appealed in Trump v. USA, this mishmash of legal theories is being brought into focus.

A wide-ranging spectrum of legal experts earlier concluded that Judge Aileen Cannon’s Special Master decision for Trump was fatally flawed; and now the Eleventh Circuit’s appellate panel confirms that conclusion.

PAID LETTER

Alum, educator running for school board

As a wife, mother of three boys and educator with decades of experience preparing young learners for school, I want to give back to the community that has given me so much. My name is Jenny Peterson (Mahto medi Class of 1994) and I’m running to represent you on the Mahtomedi School Board.

I’m a lifelong Mahtomedi Zephyr now raising my three boys who are attending Wildwood Elementary and OH Anderson Elementary. I will bring the unique perspective of an elementary school parent — a critical voice that is absent from the current school board.

I am very fortunate to be part of four generations of my family currently living in Mahtomedi, a legacy as evidence of our great people and community. I’m proud of my involvement with St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church and throughout the community, an extension of my 22plus year career educating our little ones.

Our youngest learners and their parents need a voice on the school board, and I’m committed to listening to you so that our community is fully represented. I’m amazed at the support thus far, and I’d be honored to have your vote for the Mahtomedi School Board — please vote for me, Jenny Peterson, on Nov. 8.

Jenny (Jacobson) Peterson Mahtomedi School Board Candidate ISD 832

On Sept. 7, during a local candidate debate spon sored by the North Metro Mayors Association, the Rush Line* was mentioned. (*See North Metro TV, approx. 13 min.) Mr. Chamberlain, who had opposed the project, made it clear that the Met Council had erred in trying to force the unpopular project on the city. His opponent, Ms. Gustafson, said it was wrong to oppose the 89 buses a day, demonstrating her lack of attention to detail of the plan and how it affected the community as well as inability to listen to all voices — could there be a hidden agenda?

Elected officials represent the whole community. Mr. Chamberlain has consistently worked to main tain common-sense and reasonable legislation for the good of all. He listens to all sides of the issue and invites ideas and conversation into the planning pro cess. He’s the leader I am supporting this November.

Kristi Ames White Bear Lake

The appeals court opinion reveals both the absence of precedent and the loose grasp of facts within Judge Cannon’s orders.

By ordering special master review of national security documents bearing our Nation’s highest classification markings, Judge Cannon set upon a dubious legal mission: to determine if they’re subject to “executive privilege.”

But, the Eleventh Circuit seemed to doubt executive privilege is applicable and found Trump simply has no “individual interest” in the classified documents. It found no need to decide whether executive privilege can be claimed by former presidents—including by one who has not asserted it.

It also ruled Trump has no right to the return of these documents.

Worse yet, Judge Cannon had ordered a halt to the “criminal investigation” into the documents seized by the F.B.I. Not only are such “stays” nearly unheard of, but they likely violate the principle of separation of powers.

PAID LETTER

A plea for civility

We took our two granddaughters to march in the Vadnais Heights Heritage Days Parade (age 6 and 8). We joined Roger Chamberlain’s float, and the girls were very excited to be in a parade and handing out candy! They are not political, and were surprised and disappointed to find out that they could not vote.

While we were being moved into position for the parade, we passed the group that was marching in support of Roger’s opponent, Heather Gustafson. Upon seeing us, they started angry chanting and yelling in

Consequently, the appeals panel, relying on 50 years of precedent, summarily reversed that stay. It made clear Federal courts traditionally aren’t authorized to stop criminal investigations that haven’t matured into formal indictments or charges.

Thus, the Eleventh Circuit quickly and defini tively reversed the serious flaws in Judge Cannon’s Orders—not just because they were unhinged from existing precedent; but because they were contrary to the foremost principle of American justice: no one is above the law.

Albert Turner Goins White Bear Lake

Mahtomedi city budget takes substantial leap

Most people expected their city bud get and levy to increase after a year of hearing about inflation and astonish ing home sale prices.

Mahtomedi’s general fund revenues and expenditures are proposed to increase by 8.69% compared with the 2022 budget, with revenues and matching expenditures to top $7.5 million. One year ago, the city budget was $6.9 million.

During his presentation at the Sept. 20 City Council meeting, Finance Director Scott Schaefer said that increases in public safety were re sponsible for most of the expenditure increases. Ambulance costs increased by about 42% to $245,642; additional full-time firefighters pushed fire de partment costs up by 7.08% to $36,458; and contractual operating costs of Washington County Sheriff's Office coverage increased by 11% to $66,950, he said.

The financial figures are the result of a joint Sept. 15 meeting between council and the Finance Commission.

More numbers coming out of that meeting include the 2023 general fund tax levy, proposed to be $4.1 million, a 15.15% increase from 2022. The 2023 special levy (debt service combined with a Public Employees Retirement Association, or PERA, contribution increase) is proposed to be $1.8 mil lion, a 0.11% decrease from 2022.

The total proposed city levy (a com bination of the general fund tax levy and the special levy) is $5.9 million, a 10.72% increase from 2022.

Mahtomedi’s median home market values increased almost 25% for pay able 2023 property taxes.

The owner of a median-value home in Mahtomedi, which is now $439,850, can expect to pay $1,512 in city taxes in 2023.

A $300,000 home this year was a $241,000 home last year and will see taxes increase by 12.39%, or by $114.

budget and levy must be submitted to Washington County by Sept. 30 for certification, and the final budget must be approved and certified in December. In the meantime, the city may lower the proposed levy adopted in September, but may not legally in crease it when it establishes the final certified levy in December.

Council scheduled a public hearing for 7 p.m. Dec. 6 at City Hall to con sider the final budget. Council also scheduled a public hearing for the 2023-2027 capital improvement plan for 7 p.m. Nov. 1 at City Hall.

In other action from the Mahtomedi City Council Sept. 20 meeting:

Expect to see more electronic signs around town after council approved an ordinance amendment to Chap ter 11 of the City Code, specifically Chapter 11.01, Section 10.7 Signs. Council added an opportunity for electronic signs in the Parkland, Public and Conser vation Districts.

The city will now allow electronic changeable copy or electronic graphic display signs in districts other than business districts with a conditional use permit (CUP).

There are unpaid bills the city can collect, however. After a public hearing, council passed a resolution ordering certification of unpaid utility bills, according to Minnesota Statutes, for collection with pay able 2023 property taxes. On Sept. 7, letters were sent to 153 property owners whose utility accounts were delinquent to the tune of $160,301. These property owners were asked to pay their bills in full or appear before council at the Sept. 20 meeting. The 2022 unpaid utility bills are the highest amount in the past four years, with 2020 a distant second at $139,445.

If all goes according to plan, those responsible for paying for the new CSAH 12 (Wildwood Road) will already be driving on it by the time they are called on to open their wallets. Council passed a resolu tion calling for and ratifying an assessment hear ing on the CSAH 12 Improvement Project, from Century Avenue to Mahtomedi Ave nue, to be held at 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at City Hall. Property owners on the assess ment rolls will be assessed a total of $197,239.72 for the project.

Mahtomedi Avenue is up to date in its official paperwork, after council approved a massage business license for salon owner Rhianon Nelson and a therapist license for Calvaleigh Rasmussen. The action is now a re quirement for establishments offering massage services in the city, after city passed an ordinance licensing mas sage therapists earlier this year.

The city is paying its construction bills, after council approved construc tion pay voucher No. 3 in the amount of $352,674.81 to OMG Midwest for the 2022 Street Improvement Project.

Expect Lincolntown Avenue and Birchwood Road to undergo major work in 2023, after council passed a resolution supporting the Lincoln town Avenue Drainage Project. This new version of the project includes improvements along Birchwood Road, which were added during the summer. The resolution is necessary as part of the required DNR permit for the storm sewer work because the project involves a DNR-protect ed body of water. The ponds along Lincolntown Avenue are protected ponds. Plans and specifications are complete, and bids will be solicited shortly after permit approval. The project is designed to reduce flooding from the ponds.

Breaking news

A $400,000 home in 2022 is now valued at $500,000 and will see taxes increase 9.7%, or by $152.

Council voted 3-0 (Mayor Judson Marshall and Council Member Lilly Melander were absent) to approve the preliminary 2023 general fund budget.

The preliminary 2023 general fund

A request from Mahtomedi Public Schools for approval to install an elec tronic display sign at 1520 Mahtomedi Avenue was already on the books before council took action on the electronic signs ordinance amend ment. Therefore, the district became the first customer to apply for a CUP to update a portion of its existing monument sign to become an elec tronic LED digital graphic display. The district is upgrading its signage to have an easier and warmer way to change the messages in its lettering cabinet during the winter weather and snowpack. Majestic Pines and St. Jude of the Lake churches have also applied for a CUP to install electronic signs.

The city will be writing off $103,906.98 in uncollected ambulance receivables from 2012-2016 after col lection efforts have been exhausted.

Council passed a resolution calling for and ratifying an assessment hear ing on the 2022 Street Improvement Project, to be held at 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at City Hall. Property owners on por tions of Warner Avenue, Maple Street and Locust Street are on the assess ment rolls. The cost of the project was $1.1 million, and the total amount of the proposed assessments are approx imately $174,182.

Council approved a firefighter 90day leave of absence request.

The Mahtomedi Fire Department organizational management and staff ing study from Baker Tilly (formerly Springsted) was also approved. The cost of the study is $39,515, financing of which will be split between the fire and ambulance budgets. Council members expressed a desire to view a presentation of the study.

The Jessie Tomme Salon at 92

Council approved quotes from Mid west Fence and Barnum Companies for replacements and repairs to the 13-year-old gate at the Public Works Department. The repairs will cost $16, 423.

The city will stay on top of its sewer work obligations, after council ap proved construction pay voucher No. 2 (Final) to Insituform Technologies in the amount of $12,024.75 for the sanitary sewer lining project.

The paperwork for the minor sub division at 331 Park Avenue is now in, and council passed a resolution approving the action.

The council next meets at 7 p.m. Oct. 4 at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

The city will now allow electronic changeable copy or electronic graphic display signs in districts other than business districts with a conditional use permit (CUP).

The White Bear Police Department reported the following selected inci dents:

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 4900 block of Stewart Avenue Sept. 15.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 1800 block of Orchard Lane Sept. 15.

• A sex crime was reported in the 2000 block of County Road F East Sept. 15.

• A man was arrested for gross mis demeanor obstruction and fourth degree DWI at the intersection of Highway 96 and Otter Lake Road Sept. 15.

• Officers responded to an argument in the 4700 block of Sharon Lane Sept. 15.

• A catalytic converter was stolen in the 3700 block of Grand Avenue Sept. 16.

• Officers responded to a violation of a protection order in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Sept. 16.

• Officers responded to noisy park-goers in the 3900 block of Linden Street Sept. 16.

• A pigeon was reported lost in the 3700 block of Bellaire Avenue Sept. 16.

• Officers assisted the White Bear Lake Fire Department with a pet parrot in a tree in the 3600 block of Oak Terrace Sept. 16.

• Graffiti was reported in the 1700 block of Ninth Street and the 3600 block of McKnight Road Sept. 16.

• A stolen credit card from a differ ent city was used at Sam's Club Sept. 16.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 2600 block of Riviera Drive Sept. 16.

• Theft was reported in the 2100 block of Fourth Street Sept. 17.

• Officers responded to a report of an unruly customer in the 1000 block of Highway 96 Sept. 17.

• Officers served a trespass notice to a homeless person with 6 dogs in a car parked in the Masonic Lodge parking lot Sept. 17. The issue has been ongoing.

• A man was arrested for 2nd degree DWI after he was pulled over at Highway 61 and Hoffman Road for a speed violation Sept. 18.

• Officers responded to a mutual do mestic situation in the 2000 block of Dotte Drive Sept. 18.

• Catalytic converters were reported stolen Sept. 18 in the 2100 block of Birch Street and the 3800 block of Highway 61.

• A Cadillac Escalade was stolen in the 3700 block of Van Dyke Street Sept. 18. The license plated were recovered in St. Paul two days later.

• Merchandise was stolen in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Sept. 18.

• Graffiti was reported at Podvin Park Sept. 18.

• Officers responded to a disorderly man in the 4000 block of White Bear Avenue Sept. 18.

• Officers responding to a report of an unconscious person in a vehicle in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Sept. 18 arrested a White Bear Lake man for DWI.

• Officers responded to a report of a physical assault in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Sept. 18.

• Officers mediated a verbal dispute in the 4700 block of Campbell Ave nue Sept. 18.

• Shoplifting was reported in the 2600 block of County Road E Sept. 19.

• Officers responded to a report of a stolen electric bike in the 4900 block of Highway 61 Sept. 19.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4800 block of Centerville Road Sept. 19.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 5000 block of Woodcrest Road Sept. 20.

• Officers are investigating a domes tic assault that occurred in the 2500 block of Manitou Lane Aug. 28.

• A domestic incident was reported int eh 3800 block of Hoffman Road Sept. 20.

• A person was arrested for an order of protection violation in the 2400 block of Gisela Blvd. Sept. 20.

• Fraud was reported in the 1700 block of Cedar Curve Sept. 20.

• Burglary was reported in the 3600 block of East County Line Road Sept. 20.

A St. Paul woman was arrested for check forgery and providing false information to police in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road Sept. 20.

• Officers mediated a verbal dispute that turned into a physical dispute in the 3500 block of Century Ave nue Sept. 20.

FUR PETS SAKE

Pets on pot: How 2 local hemp growers are innovating with dog treats

BY CORINNE STREMMEL STAFF WRITER

Chris Ellis and Kurt Kinneman of the Applecrest Hemp Collective in Hugo are always looking for ways to be innovative with hemp. It surprised them when their innovation was benefiting both humans and pets.

“It all started with Lucy,” Kinneman said.

He initially gave his dog, Lucy, a healthy hemp treat just for the probiotic benefits, but he soon found that the treats were actually curing Lucy’s problems with dry skin and ear infections.

Kinneman has been a hemp grower for four years and has focused much of his time on the educational elements of hemp by showing the public how hemp can be used to cure common ailments. According to Kinneman, much of hemp’s benefits translate to pets too.

“CBD is a natural anti-inflammatory so it helps with things like inflammation which can help the skin

or the stomach, and the treats themselves are really healthy because they have pumpkin and flax and eggs which have a lot of protein too,” Kinneman said.

For those feeling a little hesitant about giving their dogs, CBD, Kinneman notes that pets aren’t intoxicated or in an altered state of mind. Instead, animals will feel calm and typically more sociable. The American Kennel Club has begun to do research on the safety of CBD for pets, and Nevada has approved CBD as a medication for pets.

“It’s about finding high-quality CBD, and there is good and bad stuff too,” said Kinneman.

CBD pet treats are recommended for dogs that experience anxiety from loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms. It can calm down pets that are afraid of car rides or visiting the vet. It can even stop pets

from experiencing seizures.

Both Ellis and Kinneman have seen a growing demand for these kind of treats.

“We like to bring in products from the Applecrest Hemp Collective to sell at the orchard, and the hemp is grown locally in River Falls Wisconsin,” said Ellis.

It may have been a bit of a surprise that CBD can have medicinal properties on pets, but it added to Kinneman’s excitement to educate the public on hemp’s benefits.

“It’s been really wild. I just started it because it was a good treat and then we started sharing it with the world. We’ve had a lot of return customers,” said Kinneman.

As the two innovate, Ellis and Kinneman want to keep educating the public on the whole hemp plant because sometimes the benefits can be surprising for both humans and pets.

Staff Writer Corinne Stremmel can be reached by calling 651-407-1226 or emailing lowdownnews@ presspubs.com.

Bears pound ground for homecoming win against Eastview

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTER

One player who’s been on the JV and another who’s been mainly a linebacker led a powerful ground attack as White Bear Lake defeat ed Eastview 34-7 on a rain-soaked field Friday night.

The Bears (3-1) cruised to a homecoming win behind 385 rushing yards as junior Kesean Lipscomb carried 12 times for 154 yards and senior Chris Heim toted 16 times for 129 yards. Heim has been a short-yardage back while mostly playing linebacker.

Lipscomb scored on runs of five and 26 yards. Rayshaun Brakes had a 23-yard touchdown.

“We thought Chris would be reliable in these conditions so we reversed his role from 80 percent defense to 80 percent offense,” coach Ryan Bartlett said. “Kese an has been doing really well on junior varsity so we gave him a shot. He’s a wrestler, a scrappy kid who’s hard to bring down.”

Gavin Knutson passed to Travis Domschot for a 12-yard touchdown while completing three of eight for 20 yards as the Bears eschewed the air game.

The Bears got a defensive touch down with Jontay Vaulx picking up a fumble and racing 69 yards after Tolu Oyekunle jarred the ball

loose from the quarterback.

The Bears limited Eastview (0-4) to 64 yards on 33 ground plays and 29 yards on 3-for-12 passing. East view, down 34-0, averted a shutout on Isaiah Jones’ interception and 92-yard return of a pass by backup quarterback Heidi Barber that bounced off the receivers’ hands.

Bear defenders making tackles for loss were Oyekunle (two), Rick Deutsch, Aiden Akins, Austin Gibson, Imeleyo Stanton and Nick Asper. Michael Delaney intercept ed a pass.

The Bears face Stillwater (4-0) there Friday night.

Bears snag rare win at Mounds View in OT White Bear Lake shook off Mounds View 20-14 in overtime, after taking a quick 14-0 lead, on Sept. 16, ending a long string of defeats there.

Ryan Bartlett, coach since 2012, had never won at Mustang Stadi um.

Gavin Knutson hit Rayshaun Brakes deep for a 62-yard touch down seconds into the game, Chris Heim had a two-yard touchdown in the second quarter.

The Bears were shut down in the second half but won in overtime.

They defended three Mustang pass plays before Michael Delaney blocked a field goal attempt. Heim

barged for six yards, then the final four to win it.

Knutson was 9-for-17 for 163 yards and no interceptions. Brakes caught five for 131. Vatel Hender son had three for 28. Heim carried 14 times for 42 yards. The Mus tangs sacked Knutson four times and forced 10 Bear punts.

Mounds View caught up twice on aerials by Owen Wark to Tyler Nystrom from 31 yards in the second quarter and to Langston Hall from 29 yards with 3:52 left in the game. An apparent 66-yard TD pass to Nystrom with two minutes left was nullified when he was called for pushing off the defender.

TENNIS

White Bear Lake had a five-match win streak after tripping Cretin-Derham Hall 6-1, Centen nial 5-2 and Irondale 7-0, before the streak ended with a 5-2 loss to South St. Paul. The Bears are 4-2 in conference and 8-6 overall. In doubles, Anna Sommerhause/Ella Skeie went 4-0, Tally Domschot won three matches with Annika Norman plus one with Mia Haskins, and Alexina Erickson/Alex Reiland were 3-1 at No. 1. Sabrina Thompson had three singles wins, and Ellia Groneberg won twice at No. 1.

VOLLEYBALL

White Bear Lake took the first two games then held on to defeat Park (6-3) in five, 25-23, 25-20, 21-25, 16-15, 15-8 in its lone match last week. Kylie Gustafson powered the Bears with 20 kills and six blocks. Blessing Adebisi made 13 blocks and four kills, Ella Stadtherr eight blocks, Kennidee Thom as 13 digs and Annika Olsen 31 assists.

BOYS CROSS-COUNTRY

White Bear Lake earned a fifth-place finish among 52 teams in the Maroon division of the Roy Griak Invitational. The Griak meet, hosted by the U of M at Les Bolstad Golf Course, includes doz ens of teams in Gold and Maroon divisions, from several states, along with college divisions. The Bears were led by junior Luke Williams in 12th place of 488 runners in 17:17. Isaac Kolstad placed 38th (17:53.2), Vaughn Larson 41st (17:55), Dru Pingale 51st (18:04), Ryley Murphy 115th (18:38) and Andrew Klier 136th (18:53). “We are still working on our fifth through seventh runners to help close the gap,” coach Dan Kovacich said.

GIRLS CROSS-COUNTRY

White Bear Lake placed 35th of 53 teams in the Gold Division of the multi-state Roy Griak Invita tional in Falcon Heights. Katelyn Porter placed 100th (20:49) of 476 runners. Rosalie Sommars was 204th (21:44), Amelia Nachtscheim 225th (21:55), Ally Mattson 267th (22:15) and Clara Kolstad 282nd (22:21).

GIRLS SOCCER

White Bear Lake, ranked No. 10 in girls soccer, lost to top-ranked, defending state champion Still water 4-3 in overtime in duel for the conference lead. Lightning and rain resulted in a change of venue from the high school to St. Croix Rec Center indoors during the first half.

It was an “exciting, crazy game,” said Bear cocoach John Dierkhising, “but the girls came away optimistic knowing they will be able to compete for the section championship.”

Stillwater (11-0) took a quick 2-0 lead on goals by Lawrence Rylee and Luka Johnson. After moving indoors, the Bears caught up on goals by Emma Merriman and Jenna Maloy before halftime. Johnson gave the Ponies a 3-2 lead in the second half. Maloy tied it with her second breakaway goal of the game.

Pony goalie Reese Elzen knocked away another one-on-one shot by Maloy as time was running out. Grace Shwoch scored off a corner kick for the Ponies in OT.

The Bears (9-3 overall, 4-1 conference) beat Park 3-0 there as Anna Marie Millard scored one goal and assisted goals by Abby O’Brien and Alivia Fer rell. Autumn Maki stopped three shots on goal.

PHOTOS BY BRENNAN SCHACHTNER

Chris Heim of the Bears picked his way forward with blocks from Joel Siefried (71), Jack Kovisto (54) and Evan Vicstrom (61).

Kesean Lipscomb of the Bears slips past Eastview’s Isaiah Jones on the way to a 154-yard game.

BRENNAN SCHACHTNER | CONTRIBUTED

Anna Sommerhause and Ella Skeie enjoyed a 4-0 week in doubles to help the Bears win three of four matches.

RON ENGH | CONTRIBUTED Breaking away from the starting line at the Roy Griak Invitational were (from left) Vaughn Larson and Luke Williams in the front.

Michael Delaney, White Bear Lake safety, is an athlete who absolutely fearless of the moment, so he will make big plays because of that,” coach Ryan Bartlett observed. In the last two weeks the 6-foot-2 senior safety notched an interception, fumble recovery, two pass breakups and a blocked goal during an OT win over Mound View, then picked off another pass in a win over Eastview. In addition to his tenacious pass coverage, Delaney has made four tackles-for-loss and forced three fumbles. Last year, he scored two defensive touchdowns.

Michael Delaney

Zephyrs Hall of Fame adds trio

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTER

A girls soccer star and a 1950’s twins tandem were inducted into the Mahtomedi Zephyrs Sports Hall of Fame at a Zephyrs football game.

Brittany (Henry) Voeller, Class of 2009, was Minnesota’s Ms. Soccer as a senior at Mahtomedi High School and collected her third state team championship that year. Her 23rd goal of the sea son was the state finals game-win ner. Also in softball, track, and basketball, she collected 11 letters. She played college soccer at Mankato. Married with two sons, Voeller lives in Eagan and works in franchising for Dominos Pizza.

Twin brothers Jim and Jerry Blasena, Class of 1958, played of fense and defense end in football, forward in basketball, and were the shortstop and second base man, respectively, in baseball. Each collected 10 letters and four

From left, Jerry Blasena, Brittany (Henry) Voeller, and Jim Blasena posed with their Hall of Fame plaques.

all-conference awards. They were leaders on conference champion teams twice in football and in basketball.

Jerry worked in marketing

research in Florida, where he lived for 30 years before moving back to Mahtomedi last year. Jim, a lifelong resident of Mahtomedi, owns Century Plumbing.

5-1. The win streak also includes wins over Orono 5-0, Benilde St. Margaret’s 1-0 and South St. Paul 7-1.

VOLLEYBALL

B0YS SOCCER

Zephyrs (36-14) scamper past Tartan 36-14 for homecoming win

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTER

In a chilly, wet Homecoming game the Mahtomedi Zephyrs stayed unbeaten with a 36-14 conquest of the Tartan Titans on Friday evening.

The Zephyrs (4-0) gained 319 yards, all on the ground, led by Cory Bohmert. The senior tailback scored from 41, 29, and 54 yards while rolling up 236 yards in 18 attempts. Bohmert’s four-game totals are 887 yards and 13 TD’s.

The other touchdowns were a 17-yard run by quar terback Sam Garry, and Eric Buttke’s fumble recovery return of 27 yards. Garry has started two games in place of Charlie Brandt, sidelined with an injury.

Tartan (2-2) rushed for 202 yards and passed for 54 while suffering four turnovers. The Titans got on the scoreboard in the fourth quarter on short runs by Ethan Kaemmer and Jaymonte Hawkins.

Zephyr linebacker Cody Dvorak made nine tackles, including a sack and another tackle for loss. Will Harris recovered two fumbles. Carsten Cummins intercepted a pass. Brett Swystun made five tackles, including a sack.

GIRLS CROSS-COUNTRY

GIRLS SOCCER

Mahtomedi is riding a five-game win streak in which they’ve allowed just two goals, improving to 3-0 in the Metro East and 7-2 overall. The Zephyrs defense has Jacque Warden or Stella Grabow in goal; Emily Muetzel, Kaila Och, and Savanna Stockness rotating at center back; and Alli McCleery, Claire Faulkner, Presley Albers, and AJ LaFrinier rotating at outside back. Last week, the Zephyrs nipped Simley 1-0 on a goal by Katelyn Beulke (Maddy McCoy assisting), then routed Simley

Mahtomedi swept two conference foes during homecoming week, Hill-Murray 25-17, 25-18, 25-12 and Hastings 25-19, 25-7, 25-23, improving to 11-2 overall and 3-0 in the Metro East. The H-M match was Dig Pink Night-with $450 raised for the Sideout Foundation-and Youth Night. Mahtomedi’s only losses came in the Apple Valley Invitational as they beat Osseo and Grand Rapids, then fell to Mayer Lutheran (14-2) 25-4, 25-10, and Andover (11-5) 25-22, 25-16. Zephyr kill leaders are Katherine Arnason (125) and Abby Bruggeman (93). Digs leaders are Ellie Mustar (119), Arnason (109), Kylie Paul (105), Camryn Petersen (94) and Bruggeman (93). Mustar has made 231 assists. Silvie Graetzer leads with 26 blocks.

Mahtomedi won three of its last five matches — all by the same score of 2-1 — leaving the Zephyrs with a 6-4-1 over all record, and 2-1-1 in the Metro East. The Zephyrs lost to Mounds View, then defeated South St. Paul, St. Paul Como Park, and Two Rivers last Tuesday, and lost to Simley on Thursday. Leonardo De La Torre and Caden Hallin scored against South St. Paul. Angelo Diez had the goal against Simley.

TENNIS

Mahtomedi was handed its first conference loss, by Hastings 4-3, on Thursday, after defeating Two Rivers 7-0 on Tuesday. The Zephyrs are 7-6 overall and 4-1 in the Metro East, where they are defending champions. Against Hastings, Mari Meger won 6-2, 6-3 at 1-singles, Campbell Albers/Sonja Potthoff won 7-5, 6-1 at 1-doubles and Kathryne Foley/Katherine Smith won 6-0, 6-0 at 3-doubles. The Zephyrs have lost to five strong non-conference oppo nents: Elk River (20-1) by 6-1, Roseville (16-2) by 4-3, Minnetonka (15-0) by 7-0, Edina (14-1) 6-1 and Eden Prairie (10-4) by 6-1.

Mahtomedi placed fourth in a sev en-team meet at Chisago Lakes, won by the host team. Sarah Brings placed sixth (21:13) to lead the Zephyrs, who were missing two starters. Vanessa Rogosheske was 17th, Juliana Nyberg 26th, Brooklyn Erickson 30th and Grace McCarthy 36th. In the Metro East Preview on Sept. 13 at home, Mahtomedi placed second, behind Two Rivers. Brings placed fifth (20:53), Gab by Fox ninth (21:47), Greta Liner 12th (23:03), Rogosheske 13th (23:20) and Nyberg 21st (24:37).

BOYS CROSS-COUNTRY

Mahtomedi placed second, behind Totino-Grace, in an 11-team meet at Chisago Lakes. The Zephyrs were led by William Lieberman and John Gibbens in fourth and fifth place, each in 17:41. Wyatt Siess placed 10th, Ryan Pavlik 15th and Matthew Studenski 18th. In the Metro East Preview at home, Mahtomedi placed third of seven teams. Lieberman placed fifth, Gibbens sixth, Siess 17th Pavlik 24th and Stu denski 34th. St. Thomas Academy won.

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS

BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED

Lily Lindquist (6) was able to get the ball past Simley goalie Valerie Duval and defend er Rachael Scufsa during a 5-1 win.

CONTRIBUTED

1. The clouds over White Bear Lake glowed red at sunset Sept. 19. — Megan Schaffhausen

2. Maxwell Nelson (left), a 2020 graduate of White Bear Lake High School, participated in the Roy Griak Invitational at the University of Minnesota with his teammates on Santa Clara University’s cross country team. He finished in 135th place with a time of 26:29:0. He led his WBLAHS team to a winning finish in the race in 2019.

3. White Bear Lake Buick-GMC Superstore General Manager Charlie Gatrell poses with the new all-electric HUMMER pickup truck near the level 3 fast charging station that was recently installed at the dealership. Paul Dols, Press Publications

4. A photobomber was spotted in a picture of Mahtomedi High School sophomores Hank Roelofs and Sam Churchill before the homecoming dance. — Contributed

5. Royal Credit Union (Royal) hosted a grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting ceremony for its new White Bear Lake office, located at 1400 Hwy 96 East. Speakers included White Bear Lake City Manager Lindy Crawford, White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce Office Manager Maureen Francis, and Royal Board Chairman Tom Huffcutt and President/CEO Brandon Riechers. Royal also donated $500 to the White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation. — Contributed

6. Wild Bean Coffee Chop owner Maddie McMahon was spotted being interviewed by Kelli Hanson on KSTP Channel 5’s Twin Cities Live last week during the show’s “TCL in Your Town” series that highlighted Mahtomedi. — twincitieslive.com

Hugo Oktoberfest Craft Show & More

70 crafters & vendors, food trucks, beer tent, DJ & games

Saturday October 1st, 2022

Hugo American Legion 5383 140th St N, Hugo MN 10 am - 4 pm www.rsgdevelopment.com @stillwaterfleamarket

NOW HIRING! GRAPHIC DESIGNER

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Press Publications is looking for a motivated graphic designer for a part-time or full-time position to join our team! As part of the production-design team, you'll have a vital role in making sure the weekly and bi-weekly papers get out the door and into the hands of the local community.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Comfortable in Adobe InDesign (CS6 + CC) with the minor use of Photoshop and Illustrator

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

- Follow a strict schedule with overlapping deadlines -Work with editors to produce vibrant products

JOB DETAILS:

- 20-38 hours per week

- M-F 7:55am - 5:30pm

Email resume to: marketing@presspubs.com

Administrative Assistant

The City of Circle Pines is seeking an individual to fill a part-time (20-30 hours) Administration Assistant position. Primary duties include prepares all council, board and commission packets, ordinance and resolution handling, transcribes recorded and written copy for City Council, Park Board, Planning Com mission, Utility Commission and Labor Management meetings. Maintains all record keeping of files in hard copy and in the document imaging electronic filing system. Performs receptionist duties such as answers phones; also accommodates customers in like manner at counter. Minimum requirements of a High School Diploma or GED, two (2) years demonstrat ed experience in administrative duties. Two years of government experience desired. Salary range $21.77-$28.83. Applicant must fill out a City of Circle Pines/Centennial Utilities application to be considered. For a full position description and application visit HYPERLINK “http://www.ci.circle-pines.mn.us” www. ci.circle-pines.mn.us. Application deadline 4:30 p.m. Friday, October 28, 2022. The City of Circle Pines/ Centennial Utilities is an equal opportunity employer.

Now Hiring

Accounting Assistant Part Time, 20-25 Hrs/wk. Collections, Deposits, Billing

Please send resume to: AR@presspubs.com

Now Hiring

Administrative Assistant Part Time, Mon. & Tues., 7:55am-5:05pm

PRESS Staff Writer

Press Publications in White Bear Lake is seeking a staff writer to join its awardwinning team. As a staff writer, you will be responsible for coordinating editorial content and layout for our newspapers and website. In addition to writing stories, the job will require attending news meetings, taking photographs, assisting with the layout process, writing occasional editorial columns and maintaining a positive relationship with the community at large. We are looking for a candidate who is a talented writer, passionate about local community news and great at time management. Candidates should have a degree in journalism (or a related field) and have relevant experience. To apply, please send resume, cover letter and three writing samples to quadnews@presspubs.com.

NOW HIRING shifts &

Press Publications publishes 6 community newspapers, magazines and coupon books, serving White Bear Lake and surrounding commu nities. 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 cli ents, 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 effec tively. User of Microsoft Office suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as Microsoft Office.

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

Facilities Maintenance Technician

NORTHEAST YOUTH & FAMILY SER VICES is recruiting for a temporary Facil ities Maintenance Technician. This is a temporary position for 3 to 6 months, pays $22 to $25 per hour, and is 40 hours per week. Responsibilities include painting, and basic repair of drywall, doors, and plumb ing. The person will be responsible for light bulb, ballast, and HVAC filter replacement, and general equipment maintenance such as tightening belts and bearings and check ing equipment oil. This position oversees snow removal services ensuring safety of employees, tenants, and staff. The ability to develop good rapport with staff and tenants and assist them with equipment or main tenance needs is required. For additional information, please call 651-379-3402 or email Roberta.Wells@nyfs.org.

WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD NOTES

• This year schools in the suburban east conference are going to online only ticket sales for all sporting events.

Superintendent Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak said all conference schools have part nered with hometown ticketing to make it easier for spectators. People can ac cess online tickets by downloading the hometown ticketing app. Information about purchasing online tickets and season passes can also be found on the White Bear Lake Area High School ac tivities page at https://activities.isd624. org/online-ticketing.

• School Board student representatives for the 2022-23 school year are Lau ren Collier and Arianna Vann-Cook. Collier, a senior at the south campus, will serve as the student representative. She is involved in the National Honor Society, Link Crew, chamber orchestra, homecoming and prom committee and

secretary of the Student Council. She also volunteers at St. Johns Hospital. Vann-Cook, a junior at the south cam pus, will serve as the alternate student representative. She is involved in the Student Council, Black Excellence Club, speech, Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee, lacrosse, and is the leader of the Women Empowerment Seminar.

• The White Bear Lake Area School Board recognized students who repre sented the district at a state and nation al level in skeet/trap and fishing. They are:

• Kaleb Walton: 2022 Bass High School National Championship qualifier.

• Tyler Thilmany: 2022 MN Jr. BASS Nation State Tournament of Cham pions qualifier, SATT 2022 MN Tour nament Champions qualifier.

• Andrew Mailer: 2022 BASS High School National Championship qualifier.

• Zach Loken: 2022 Bass High School National Championship qualifier.

• Eli Hansen: 2022 MN Jr. BASS Na tion State Tournament of Champi ons qualifier.

• Adler Siebenaler: 2022 MN Spring Skeet League — First place high av erage, first place 2A conference. 2022 MN Spring Trap League — Third place high average, first place 6A conference.

• Cal Ambrose: 2022 Bass High School National Championship qualifier.

• The district's capital project levy renewal will be on the Nov. 8 ballot. Kazmierczak said the funds will be used for safety and security, technology and related services, textbooks, curriculum

materials and equipment, musical in struments and transportation. Com munity members will have a chance to learn about the capital projects levy renewal at public meetings that will take place this fall.

• 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at the WBLAS Senior Center, 2482 East County Road F in White Bear Lake.

• 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at District Center, 4855 Bloom Ave. in White Bear Lake.

• 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at One ka Elementary, 4888 Heritage Pkwy N. in Hugo.

For more information about the dis trict’s capital projects levy renewal go to the district’s website at www.isd624.org/ capitalprojectslevyrenewal.

Noelle Olson

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF HEARING ON ASSESSMENTS FOR IMPROVEMENT 2022-1

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That the Town Board of the Town of White Bear, Minnesota, will meet at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, in the Town of White Bear, Minnesota, at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 17, 2022, to hear and pass upon objections, if any, to the proposed assessment in respect of Improvement 2022-1. A reasonable estimate of the impact of the assessments will be available at the hearing.

The proposed assessment roll is now on file and open to public inspection by all interested persons in the office of the Town Clerk. Each of these as sessments will be payable, unless prepaid, in ten equal, annual consecutive installments, the first such installment will be payable with the general taxes payable in the year 2023, collectable with such taxes during the year 2023. The first installment will be payable with interest at the rate of 3 ½% per annum on the entire assessment from October 17, 2022 to December 31, 2022, and each subsequent installment will be payable with one year’s interest at said rate on all unpaid installments.

The general nature of the improvement is set forth as follows: construc tion of bituminous paving, concrete curb and gutter, storm drainage and other appurtenances thereto within the following area of the Township including: Martin Way, Effress Road, Birch Knoll Drive and Portland Avenue, Ramsey County, Minnesota.

The proposed area to be assessed for such improvement is every lot, piece or parcel of land benefitted within the area of the improvement, to-wit: Martin Way, Effress Road, Birch Knoll Drive, and Portland Avenue, all in Ramsey County, Minnesota.

The total amount to be assessed is $1,094,500.00.

An owner may appeal an assessment to the District Court pursuant to Sec

tion 429.081 of Minnesota Statutes, by serving Notice of the appeal upon the Chair of the Town Board or the Clerk of the Town within thirty (30) days after the adoption of the assessment and filing such Notice with the Clerk of the District Court within ten (10) days after service upon the Town Board Chair or Town Clerk providing a written objection signed by the affected property owner is filed with the municipal clerk prior to the assessment hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. Sections 435.193 to 435.195 provide that a Town making a special assessment may, at its discretion, defer the payment of that special assessment for any homestead property owner by a person 65 years of age or older from whom it would be a hardship to make the payments.

The Town of White Bear has elected to defer some special assessments and has adopted Ordinance No. 53 establishing the standards and guidelines.

Dated: September 19, 2022.

BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 28, 2022.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of White Bear Board of Su pervisors will hold an informational public hearing regarding the annual presentation of the Town’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program at Heritage Hall on Monday, October 17, 2022. This hearing will be held at 7:00 PM, or as soon as thereafter as the matter can be reached on the agen da. The agenda for the informational public meeting will include:

1. A Presentation about implementation of the Town’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program in 2021,

2. Affording interested persons an opportunity to make oral statements concerning the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program,

3. Consideration of relevant materials that interested persons submit con cerning the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, and

4. Consideration of public input in making adjustments to the 2022 imple mentation plan for the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program. This meeting will be held at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, White Bear Township, Minnesota.

This meeting is open to the public. If you have any questions, or need spe cial accommodations, please call 651.747.2750.

Patrick Christopherson, Town Clerk

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 28, 2022.

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 Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

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

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 4707 Highway 61 N #1047 White Bear Lake MN 55110

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.

Lomax, Yolanda 750 Otay Lakes Rd Chula Vista CA 91910

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 per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: September 21, 2022

Signed: Lomax, Yolanda

Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 28 and October 5, 2022.

‘Century Club’ celebrates first female member

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS WRITER

Peri Rasske re cently became the first female mem ber of what local water ski enthusi asts call the “Cen tury Club,” which requires 100 days skiing on White Bear Lake in a given year.

Their names are placed on a traveling plaque that resides with each year’s win ner of their Polar Award, which goes to the person skiing the latest in the year.

Rasske, 61, who has skied “recre ationally but not competitively” since moving here in 1984, made her 100th trek the length of the lake and back last Thursday. She was pulled as always by husband Steve in their Mali bu Sunsetter 2002 ski boat, and a group of friends were on hand to cheer for her.

“This was the first athletic thing I’ve ever done, so that made it more exciting,” said Rasske, a retiree from a financial post with 3M.

Club members Nick Temali and Mike Parenteau told Rasske just before July 4 that their Century Club plaque had no women on it, sparking her interest.

“That’s the first I heard of it. Because of that, and the fact that this is the 100th anniversary of the invention of water skiing, I decided to go for it,” said Rasske, who skied 90 times last year.

The plaque to which her name will be added is currently in possession of John Redpath, who earned the 2021 Polar Award by skiing in Decem ber. Asked if she plans to go for the Po lar Award, too, Rasske said she’ll leave that to the guys. “No, I’m not interested in skiing in that cold water!”

CONTRIBUTED

Peri Rasske in action on White Bear Lake