Vadnais Heights Press by Press Publications

Take a stroll along the Scarecrow Trail

How local schools are using Artificial Intelligence

BY MADELINE DOLBY SHOREVIEW PRESS EDITOR

In multiple north metro area schools, there is no official written school board policy regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), yet various restrictions can be in place to limit the usage of AI. Each school district has different regulations and rules when it comes to utilizing AI. But AI can also be used to help create lesson plans, grade students’ homework and help students study for upcoming tests or quizzes.

Mahtomedi Schools

Mahtomedi schools are working to lay a foundation for professional learning and district practices for the use of AI. According to Superintendent Barb Duffrin, the district is focusing on supporting teachers and staff in understanding the value of AI and the necessary

considerations of student data privacy and academic integrity.

“Our district mission acknowledges the importance of providing students with opportunities to lead and thrive in a dynamic world,” said Duffrin. “Our Portrait of a Graduate, which outlines the skills we want for graduates of Mahtomedi Public Schools, includes utilizing AI and technology responsibly while staying current on trends for success.”

The district acknowledges that AI can improve efficiency and invite innovative learning experiences for students. Duffrin also stated that students must learn to use generative AI tools responsibly and ethically to successfully navigate a future where these technologies will play a crucial role in job markets

AI, PAGE 10

Small business owners keeping spirits alive

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

“If you build it, they will come.”

Although Kevin Costner’s line in “Field of Dreams” is famous in baseball culture, it also illustrates what someone from a different country can accomplish in America. That is what White Bear Lake resident Hardik Patel is looking to accomplish as the owner of the new White Bear Wine and Spirits store downtown.

“To me, the American Dream is putting in the hours and tough labor,” said Patel. “It’s also about being transparent with others, which is to respect and welcome them like a family.”

Though White Bear Wine and Spirits is in a new location, it is rooted in a much older, iconic business from the city’s past.

“To me, the American dream is putting in the hours and tough labor.”

Hardik Patel White Bear Wine and Spirits owner

The store is a descendant of Ciresi’s Liquor Store, which was located in the historic Getty Building at the corner of Third Street and Clark Avenue downtown. Founded in 1952 by Italian immigrants Sam Ciresi,

his wife Selena, and Sam’s sister Ann, the ownership of the store passed to Sam and Selena’s daughter and son-in-law, Anna and Rich Bohaty, in 1972. Both owned and ran the store until 2015. That year, Controneo’s bought Ciresi’s and, in 2019, Patel bought Controneo’s. This fall, he renamed the store and moved it into the former Fraser Automotive location.

Patel himself is originally from New Jersey, and his grandparents come from India. Initially a technology consultant for India-based company Infosys, Patel moved to Minnesota in 2015, where he became fascinated with the

SEE LIQUOR STORE, PAGE 23

The Vadnais Heights Scarecrow Trail in Community Park is a popular location for individuals and businesses to display their best handmade creations. Pictured with their design are Vadnais Heights Lions Club members Brian Teschendorf (center), Eileen Schirer (left) and Kathy Hellen (right). The Scarecrow Trail runs through Nov. 1. See story on page 20.

ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

White Bear Wine and Spirits, is located at the intersection of Highway 61 and Third Street, is owned by Hardik Patel, who has sought to keep the legacy of Ciresi’s Liquor alive.

High school mountain bike team shares success and bonding

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

For a group of young, local bike riders, no trail is too intense, and no competition is without a headstrong determination to succeed. Those two elements are what fuels the power of the White Bear Lake Mountain Bike Team. The team officially wrapped up its season with the state championship, which was held October 12 and

13 at Redhead Mountain Bike Park in Chisholm. However, no matter what place individual riders took home, they say that the sheer amount of fun they had biking was one of the biggest prizes of all.

Senior Captain Isaac Lindholm is one such biker who, while with the team since his freshman year, admits he was initially a newcomer to biking. “I had only been biking about a month beforehand,” said Lindholm. “I had

some friends who were encouraging me to start biking. I did it for the first time in Whistler, Canada, and immediately fell in love with it.”

Since becoming captain, Lindholm has earned his fair share of rewards, including placing second at the 2022 State Championship. However, the fun he has had biking with his fellow riders is what has brought him the most love. “I love riding, but I also love the community aspect,” said Lindholm.

“The people I bike with here are amazing, and I love them all.”

Captains Grace Conroy and Gretchen Blankenship, also seniors, share similar sentiments about their biking experiences. “It’s always fun for me to hang out with my teammates and cheer them on at the races,” said Conroy. “It’s super fun.”

“I always look forward to all the girls I race with,” added Blankenship. “They’re are so many amazing

WHITE BEAR LIONS CLUB

White Bear Lions welcomed at our meeting tonight, Michele Norcross, this year’s White Bear Lake Teacher of the Year! She teaches at White Bear Area Learning Center (ALC). She is an exemplary teacher, who empowers each individual student to discover and aspire to achieve their goals through lifelong learning skills.

Please join the White Bear Lions in congratulating her for being an outstanding teacher in our community!

Pictured with her Lion Ivy Hunt, Michelle Norcross, and Lion President Rheanna O’Brien

people from different teams. It’s fun to learn about them and how they came into the sport.”

Although Blankenship and Conroy have biked recreationally since childhood, both admitted they needed persuasion to join the team. “My parents encouraged me,” said Blankenship, whose father, Tren, coaches the team. “I was a little too scared to join by myself. I needed a community; thankfully, they were there for me.”

Conroy said, “One of my friends suggested that I join. I already knew some other people on the team, too.”

Team season, according to Coach Tren Blankenship, is held in early July (generally after the Fourth) and runs through midOctober. Practice is held two days a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school. Tuesday practices are held on tracks including Sunfish Lake Park in Lake Elmo and Carver Lake Park in Woodbury.

Thursdays are reserved for farther away, including Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan; Whitetail Ridge in River Falls, Wisconsin;

Reserve in Champlain. “We try to vary it to keep the kids interested and try new things,” said Blankenship. “On Thursdays, we’ll try to go a bit farther away. It helps to expose riders to new places because there’s so much good riding in Minnesota. It builds excitement, engagement and exposure.” Blankenship has led the team as head coach for five years, succeeding previous coach Andrew Engen. Twenty five riders participated at state this year. Five of the team’s riders placed within the top 25 of different divisions. They include: Senior Marshall Hawks placed 25th in the Senior Open Boys Division.

• Sophomore James Wallek placed 19th in the Junior Varsity Three Boys Division.

• Senior Captain Grace Conroy placed 23rd in the D1 Junior Varsity Three Girls Division. Senior Captain Gretchen Blankenship placed 18th in the D1 Varsity Girls Division.

• Freshman Cason Juergens placed 21st in the Junior Varsity Two Boys Division One.

CONTRIBUTED

Captain Grace Conroy, a senior, placed 23rd in D1 JV3 Girls race.

andArts Culture2024

EMERGING ARTIST: ARIANNA VANN-COOK

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

People are often sorted into two categories: followers and leaders.

Recent White Bear Lake graduate Arianna VannCook, however, belongs in a third category—trailblazer.

School Board Student Liaison, Black Student Union coleader, Women Empowerment Seminar founder—VannCook has long been bursting with ideas. Only in the last few years, though, has she realized the power her ideas had.

“I had notebooks and books lined up in every corner of my room, and I didn’t realize … until a teacher drew it out of me, like, ‘Honey this is poetry,” Vann-Cook recalls. Because she had so much content, her teacher

Excerpt from “summer,”

plenty of color, a dozen creation/ we shall huddle together, a standing ovation/ to how we shine in front of the sun/ and teach it to glow.

encouraged her to submit to White Bear Center for the Arts’ WriteNow! Contest. She won four awards her freshman year. Vann-Cook describes poetry

and writing as “my deepest emotions and thoughts. It’ll be something small, and then it’ll kind of snowball into something bigger. … It’s really just pouring everything out.” Vann-Cook’s process led her to write the piece “Monochromatic”—a poem about Vann-Cook’s experience

growing up mixed race. For this, she received an Award of Merit from WBCA, who also featured the work in their first issue of “Repose,” an art collective magazine.

Vann-Cook’s relationship with WBCA proved critical when the center looked to establish a high-school internship program. There, she used the shape and power of her words to appeal to the State House of Representatives: “I have witnessed a great deal of passion with no outlet, having nowhere to fulfill their dreams … Talent is something that can often be overlooked if there is nowhere to apply it.” Earlier this year, VannCook completed WBCA’s inaugural students-in-resident internship.

She also handed the reins of the Women Empowerment

HISTORICAL SOCIETY RETRACES MINNESOTA’S TRAIL OF TEARS

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

On Nov. 7, 1862, between two of The Civil War’s most brutal battles, Minnesota governor Alexander Ramsey demanded that the Dakota “be exterminated or driven forever beyond the borders of the State.” This was decreed in retribution for the deaths caused by Little Crow’s Rebellion earlier that year. The vast majority of the Dakota population had opposed the war, refused to fight and condemned the fighting party’s leader, Little Crow, for his actions. Nevertheless, that winter, 1,658 non-combatant Dakota were forcibly marched for 150 miles from the land on which they’d lived for hundreds of years—currently termed “unceded lands”— to an internment camp in Fort Snelling en route to a reservation near Omaha, Nebraska. Only 1,000 reached their destination. This event is now known as Minnesota’s Trail of Tears.

A Google search of “MN Trail of Tears” yields a handful of local and state articles before switching to “Trail

of Tears” with a note underneath that reads “Missing: MN.” While writing this very article, autocorrect “helpfully” changed “unceded lands” to “unneeded lands.” Rob Thomas, Development Director for the History Theater and current Board President for the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society, believes two factors are behind the low awareness of this atrocity. The first is that Minnesota only allowed Dakota to reenter under strict terms beginning in 1889. Thomas’ own family only returned in the late 1940s. The second reason hits upon a universal human difficulty.

“We don't mind talking about the concentration camps in Germany because it happened in Germany; somebody else did it. We get a little more hesitant to share real history when we're talking about ourselves,” Thomas states. To help remedy this, Thomas will be giving a historical presentation of these events through the eyes of his great-great-greatgrandparents, Pazaheyayewin (She radiates in her path like the sun) and Mazaadidi (Walks on iron).

When Thomas talks about this

Csubject, he sometimes gets a little pushback. “The most common thing I hear is, ‘You know, the Indians killed white people too,’” he says. “Yes. But we're talking about systemic issues of our educators not having either the education themselves or the power to tell, you know, true stories. These are big, big problems that everyone should be upset about.”

To be clear, though, Thomas’ aim is not to make anyone feel ashamed or guilty about Minnesota history.

“You don't have any control over it. … I don't think anyone should have to feel bad about that specifically. But we can feel bad about not doing enough to acknowledge people want to see themselves represented in history,” he says. “There were, and are, burial mounds [in White Bear Lake], which means this was a significant place to Dakota people at some point. So Dakota history has to be a part of White Bear history too."

One Family’s Journey on MN’s Trail of Tears takes place from 6-7 p.m. Nov. 18 at the White Bear Lake Library. No advance registration is necessary.

WHITE BEAR DYES FUR ‘BLONDE’ FOR FALL MUSICAL

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

hoir Teacher and Musical Theater Director Wendy Suoja has directed 27 shows for White Bear Lake Area High School Theater. However, this fall’s musical, “Legally Blonde,” has a special distinction: It will be the last show performed in the high school’s theater. The Performing Arts Center, a new 850-seat auditorium complete with a fly system and changeable screens, will open in early December.

“It’s super nostalgic for me personally,” says Suoja, “'cause I've been here since 1999. Then for the kids, their world has been jostled so much over the past five years … For them [the space is] like their favorite pair of shoes.” Suoja also believes that this show will be invigorating for all who see it. Between COVID and construction on the 9-12 high school, “Legally Blonde” will be the first show since 2019 that will

feel normal to produce.

Then again, Suoja promises that “Legally Blonde” will be tweaked “the White Bear way.” Elle Woods, the musical’s lead part, will be played by Yahaira Nok-Chidana, who is Afro-Latina. Nok-Chidana’s hair will be specially interwoven and braided to achieve the signature blonde color and look. Suoja assures that those who see the show, though, will recognize Nok-Chidana as Elle Woods almost immediately. “We are not changing the vibe of the character,” Suoja explains. “You see her for the character in about 30 seconds in her performance. It's so good.” As for the reason behind the casting, Suoja says. “You know, Elle Woods’ story is anybody’s story.”

Elle Woods’ story will be everybody’s story when White Bear Lake High School’s production of “Legally Blonde” opens at 7 p.m. Nov. 15.

For tickets and a full list of show dates, visit sites.google. com/isd624.org/musical-theatre/tickets-legally-blonde.

Seminar, a student-interest club that Vann-Cook founded, to her successor. “I do a lot of spoken word at the seminars and try to relate to the crowd … you know, self love and the battle with confidence. I’m glad that I took the initiative to start it. Now it’s like an actual big club. You can letter in it now, which is super cool. It’s in the yearbook.”

Even with these accomplishments to her name, Vann-Cook is still amazed that her ideas have turned into concrete accomplishments. “I created [the seminar] out of thin air, and it’s real now. It’s the same thing for writing. You create something; it can be real.”

To read “Monochromatic,” visit whitebeararts.org/ writenow/writenow-2022award-ceremony

NOVEMBER EVENTS

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

ENTURY COLLEGE PLAYHOUSE’S ‘FUDDY MEERS’

Location: Hanifl Black Box Theatre, 4914 Long Ave.

Date: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1; Saturday, Nov. 2; Thursday, Nov. 7; Friday, Nov. 8; Saturday, Nov. 9; 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3; Sunday, Nov. 10

Details: Lakeshore Players is proud to host the Century College Playhouse for their fall play, Fuddy Meers—a poignant, brutal comedy that traces one woman’s attempt to regain her memory while surrounded by bizarre characters.

ARTRIO CONCERT

Location: White Bear Center for the Arts

Date: Wednesday, November 6, 4:306:30 PM

Details: Listen to the musical stylings of local bassoon trio Atrio during this free concert at WBCA.

‘LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL’

Location: White Bear Lake Area High School Theatre, 5405 Division Ave.

Date: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15; Saturday, Nov. 16; Thursday, Nov. 21; Friday, Nov. 22; Saturday, Nov. 23; 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16 (This showtime is free for senior citizens)

Details: Based on the hit film, “Legally Blonde: The Musical” follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner. She discovers her potential and finds love in the most unexpected way.

FRESH HOLIDAY WREATHS

Location: White Bear Center for the Arts

Date: Saturday, November 16, 10:00

AM-1:00 PM

Details: Create and decorate your own holiday wreath in this class with artist Cara Corey.

OPINION

Friendship recession

Arecent issue of Rotary magazine draws attention to the decline in friendships due to death, moving to a new community, job transfers, and generally speaking, the reality of getting older.

It’s easy for one’s close friends to grow apart, and replacing them seems overwhelming.

It’s obvious that being part of an organization like Rotary enhances and grows friendships like many other organizations in which you can participate.

Research has shown how important friendships can be to our mental and physical health. Some suggest you may even live longer.

For Kathy and I, friends offer help on major decisions. Sometimes they are even more helpful than family. Many times friends have helped us clarify with objectivity.

It seems like in all cultures of the world this friendship recession is growing and not improving.

The author of the Rotary article, Kate Silver, starts off the article with “You’ve got a friend.” She relates how some people have found ways to make connections.

I’m sure you’ve discovered that if you walk a dog, that’s a good way to bring up conversation with others who are walking their pets. It takes a common ground. You have to smile and talk to people.

Over the years Kathy and I have hosted over 20 foreign exhange students and adults through different programs like Rotary. Those friendships in many cases have continued and we’ve even met some of them in their home countries.

“Here to Make Friends”, a book by Hope Kelaher, suggests that everyone have an anchor institution, whether it’s a place of worship, schools, clubs, or a café.

Think about people in your social network whom you already know and like. Be sure you reach out to them with a birthday message or an invitation to dinner, and when you do that, ask them to bring a friend that you haven’t met. Discover what you like about a new person you have met and engage them. Ask how they spend leisure time, where they vacation, what they like about certain shopping opportunities.

All this takes time and it will not necessarily be easy, but the end result is rewarding.

In the newspaper business, I have often said we have to make new friends because we lose so many through column and editorial writing.

Whether you agree or disagree, I’m always pleased to hear from you with a letter, a note, or a call.

Share your opinions, your thoughts, your ideas. We’re all different, but we bring a lot of thoughtful information to the table.

The red flag

Scams today are so prevalent and it’s so easy to be caught up with them, whatever your age.

A good warning I heard recently is if someone is trying to make you frightened or threatened, the red flag should go up. It’s very likely a scam. Scammers are getting more and more clever and finding new ways to catch people off guard. There are many premium offers that look good and some are even told will be complimentary, but you can’t trust them. I think retailers and promotional people that are legitimate are losing out because of all the scamming. Remember local businesses can be trusted and are here to serve you.

Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

It might not be too late to plant tulips

Is it too late to plant my tulip bulbs? The answer might surprise you! While the ideal time to plant hardy spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils and tulips is generally considered to be from mid-September to mid-October in Minnesota, tardy gardeners may still have time during this warmer than usual autumn. If planted right, hardy tulip bulbs will provide a bright, cheery welcome to the springtime garden.

According to the University of Minnesota, tulips can be planted as late as gardeners can get them into the soil. Bulbs grow best in rich, well-drained soils. Bulbs will need ample light for spring growth and to help leaves generate energy even after the flowering process is complete. Hardy bulbs such as tulips can be planted underneath or near deciduous trees and shrubs because the bulbs will be done blooming by the time the leaves

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

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

• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and

on deciduous trees become dense enough to produce shade. Prepare the planting site by removing rocks, sticks and weeds. Use a garden fork or tiller to work compost, shredded leaf mulch or peat moss into the planting area. This organic matter will help improve soil structure and create a good growing environment for the bulbs. Avoid planting in areas with standing water.

While there are special bulbplanting tools available, digging a trench or larger hole is an efficient and acceptable way to plant multiple bulbs of the same type in a larger area.

Tips for Planting Tulip Bulbs:

• Follow planting directions from the bulb package. Generally, plant bulbs two to three times deeper than their diameter. With light, sandy soils, plant bulbs 1 or 2 in. deeper, and consider planting bulbs 1 to 2 in. shallower in heavier clay soils.

• Plant tulip bulbs with the pointed end facing up. The base of the bulb should be resting onthe prepared soil.

• Once bulbs are all in-place, cover with half of the soil and thoroughly soak the area with

water. Then add the remaining soil and rake to smooth and level the surface of the bed.

• Water and cover the soil surface with 2-3 in. of leaf mulch, wood mulch, or clean straw that is free of weed seeds to help hold in moisture and maintain a more consistent soil temperature as the seasons change.

• Squirrels and chipmunks may dig up and eat tulip bulbs after planting. To protect newly planted bulbs, lay a piece of chicken wire flat over the planted areas and anchor with U-shaped staples normally used with landscape fabric. Cover the wire with mulch. While the wire will make it difficult for the critters to dig up the bulbs, the emerging plants will easily grow through the wire holes.

• Remember to label the areas where bulbs are planted to avoid accidentally digging them up while doing spring garden work.

Lora Berg is a volunteer with the UM Extension Washington County Master Gardener Volunteer Program

BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.

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

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

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

• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.

• All letters are subject to editing.

• Deadline is 5 p. m. , Thursday of the week prior to publication.

• To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

About the Town

Gene Johnson

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Only rain down the drain

The Vadnais Heights Green Team thanks everyone who attended our Adopt A Drain event on Saturday, October 26. The volunteers cleaned 181 drains, collecting 600 pounds of leaves and sediment that would have gone into our water system. Thanks

OBITUARIES

Donni Carlson

also to those who have talked to me to say they clean their neighborhood drain and didn’t know it would help to “adopt” it. Your steadfast commitment to your drain and the larger water system is commendable. If you have a drain near you, and are willing to clean it, particularly in

Age 69. Please join us to celebrate Donni’s life on Sunday, Nov. 3rd, 2024 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Honsa Family Funeral Home, 2460 East County Rd E. Please consider sending donations/memorials to the advancement of colon cancer research to save lives and eliminate this devastating disease.

Carolyn Lee (Bogan) Heitzman

Age 78, of White Bear Lake, MN was called Home to be with the Lord on October 24, 2024. After a nineteen-year battle with both thyroid and ovarian cancers, she died unexpectedly after a brief and sudden illness.

A beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend, Carolyn is survived by her husband, Gordon Heitzman, her six children and 11 grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 4600 Greenhaven Drive, White Bear Lake, MN 55127. An evening visitation service will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, November 1st, 2024 (Sharing of Remembrances, 6 p.m.). Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Curtis “Curt” Hjalmar Holmquist

Age 91, of Newton, NC, passed away September 26, 2024 at Abernethy Laurels. He was born November 19, 1932 in Red Wing, MN to the late William and Tina Jagusch Holmquist. Curt was a United States Army veteran, and retired from the banking industry.

Lorraine Elizabeth Holmquist

Age 92, of Newton, NC, passed away October 15, 2024 at Abernethy Laurels. She was born August 6, 1932 in Red Wing, MN to the late John and Agnes (Bartron) Kozak. Lorraine was a retired school teacher and homemaker.

In addition to their parents, they were preceded in death by brother, William Holmquist, and granddaughters, Jennifer Zwonitzer and Maile Holmquist.

Those left to cherish their memory are; Son: Scott Holmquist and wife Corinne of Mount Holly, NC, Daughter: Lora Zwonitzer and husband Dan of Cook, MN. Grandchildren: Nate Zwonitzer (Kathy), Ryan Zwonitzer (Erin), Mark Holmquist (Lexie), and Carissa Frank (Tyler). Great-Grandchildren: Taylor Zwonitzer, Axel Zwonitzer, Finley Zwonitzer, Elsie Frank, and Malia Frank.

Full Obituaries are published on www.bennettfuneralservice.com.

There will be two combined “Celebration of Life” services for Curtis and Lorraine Holmquist: October 26, 2024, Bennett Funeral Services, 7878 NC Hwy 16, Newton, NC 28658.

November 9, 2024, Mahn Family Funeral and Cremation Service, 602 Plum Street, Red Wing, MN 55066.

(Family will receive friends at 1 p.m., with services starting at 2 p.m. at each location.)

Condolences may be sent to the Holmquist family C/O Bennett Funeral Service, 7878 NC Hwy 16, Newton, NC 28658, or on their website at www. bennettfuneralservice.com

The Holmquist family is in the care of Bennett Funeral Service of Newton, 828-465-2111

the fall, please go to Adopt-A-Drain. organd adopt it. Give it a creative name. It adds fun to this community non-partisan task.

The Adopt a Drain signs will be pulled up soon to allow for the snowplows to do their work. Look for the signs to pop up in the spring.

For more information go to the Vadnais Heights Green Team Facebook page. Winners of the Adopt a Drain “Name the Drain” contest will be announced soon.

Election Day: Where to Vote

The 2024 Election is Tuesday, Nov. 5. Election Day polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. For those who didn't vote early or by absentee ballot, here is where to go to vote:

Birchwood:

Birchwood Village Hall, 207 Birchwood Avenue

Dellwood:

Mahtomedi Community Center, 1520 Mahtomedi Avenue

Gem Lake:

Heritage Hall: 4200 Otter Lake Road

Mahtomedi:

Precincts 1 & 2: St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road

Pine Springs: Wildwood Library, 763 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi

Vadnais Heights:

• Precincts 1, 2 and 3: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 East County Road F Precinct 4: South Fire Station: 3595 Arcade Street

White Bear Lake:

• Ward 1: White Bear Lake City Hall, 4701 Highway 61 North

• Ward 2: Ramsey County Library, 2150 Second Street

• Ward 3: Parkview United Church of Christ: 3737 Bellaire Avenue

• Ward 4: Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3770 Bellaire Avenue

• Ward 5: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 County Road E East

COMMUNITY BRIEF

2024 Voters’ Guide

Press Publications brings its readers a comprehensive Voters’ Guide before each major election. This free community service is provided so readers can learn more about each person running for local offices before casting their vote. Scan the QR code above to access the Voters’ Guide.

White Bear Township:

• Precinct 1: Otter Lake Elementary School, 1401 County Road H2 E

• Precinct 2: Lakeshore Players Theatre: 4941 Long Avenue

• Precinct 3: South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church, 2480 S. Shore Blvd.

Mayor for a Day contest accepts essays

The League of Minnesota Cities’ annual essay contest, Mayor for a Day, is back. Students in fourth, fifth and sixth grade can enter for a chance to win a cash prize and recognition in the Minnesota Cities magazine. Essays are due Friday, Dec. 13. For more information, go to www.lmc.org/about/mayor-for-a-day-essaycontest.

• Precinct 4: Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road

• Precinct 5: Otter Lake Elementary School, 1401 County Road H2 E

On behalf of St. Jude of the Lake Catholic School in Mahtomedi, we would like to acknowledge Olin Kettleson as an academic achiever and community leader. Olin is a kind very well-rounded faith-filled Middle School student at St. Jude. He is academically strong and a leader in his class. In addition to being a hard worker, Olin excels as a great communicator with both the teachers and peers. When he is not serving at Mass, volunteering at the food shelf, funeral ministry or focusing on his studies, Olin excels playing hockey and enjoys his time on the baseball field and golf course. Congratulations Olin on all your hard work and commitment to excellence!

Kathy Pittelko Vadnais Heights Green Team

Olin Kettleson

COPS&COURTS

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Dellwood

• A suspicious elderly male wandering around the intersection of Highways 96 and 244 during the evening of Sept. 26 turned out to be a man looking for a lost shovel to transport an injured snapping turtle to the lake. Deputies assisted with traffic control.

Grant

• Deputies arrested an individual on several outstanding warrants Sept. 25 in the 10000 block of 60th Street N., after responding to an unwanted person call.

• A driver’s license was reported lost Sept. 25 on the Gateway Trail near Jeffrey Blvd. N. and Jamaca Avenue N.

• A male was arrested for DWI at 1:56 a.m. Sept. 28 in the 9000 block of Manning Avenue N., after deputies responded to the scene of a single vehicle accident.

Mahtomedi

• Deputies responding to a 911 call at 1:02 p.m. Sept. 22 learned that the reporting party on Ledgestone Drive wanted things printed by staff and called the emergency number when staff wouldn’t do it. Otherwise, everything was fine, and they didn’t need any further assistance. However, deputies were dispatched out to the location again shortly afterward and this time advised the complainant that they cannot be calling 911 whenever staff doesn’t do the things they want.

• Suspicious activity in a cul-de-sac in the 20000 block of 60th Street N. on Sept. 22 turned out to be occupants of a Fed Ex

truck and a passenger sedan working on the Fed Ex truck.

Deputies on directed patrol for speeding in the 500 block of Warner Avenue S. for approximately 30 minutes Sept. 23 stopped one vehicle for speeding and issued a verbal warning. Due to multiple speeding complaints, the city has now posted stop signs in all directions at this location.

• Five juveniles were reported for trespassing in the driveway of a boarded up home on Forest Avenue Sept. 26. At least one of the youths was observed on security camera footage throwing an object through an intact window. Deputies notified the parent of that juvenile, as well as the property owner, who chose not to pursue charges.

• Vehicle tampering was reported at 4:29 a.m. Sept. 27 on Griffin Avenue. At 6:05 that morning, a mailbox on Griffin Avenue was reported broken.

• A vehicle previously reported stolen from an Iris Street address was recovered on Sept. 27. Another stolen vehicle was recovered on Park Avenue on Sept. 28.

• Mina Court residents on Sept. 28 reported their Facebook account hacked and used to defraud people on FaceBook Marketplace.

Pine Springs

• Residents in the 5000 block of Henna Court N. reported a 20-pound propane tank taken from their deck overnight Sept. 22-23.

Willernie

• Wildwood Road residents on Sept. 23 reported losing their phone, after which it was found by someone who used it to transfer money out of their bank account.

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• A Vadnais Heights girl, 16, was cited for shoplifting Sept. 22 from a business in the 900 block of County Road E.

• A St. Paul man, 59, was issued a trespass notice Sept. 22 from an apartment complex in the 3200 block of Highway 61, after he refused to let apartment management into a unit.

• Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Sept. 23 responded to a bank in the 3600 block of Talmage Circle, after employees reported someone attempting to cash a fraudulent check.

• A Vadnais Heights woman, 31, was cited Sept. 24 in the 3200 block of Arcade Street for failure to obtain a new driver’s license after changing her address and for failure to provide proof of insurance.

• A resident in the 800 block of County Road D on Sept. 24 reported being contacted by a man, 38, against whom she has an Order For Protection (OFP).

• On Sept. 26, the complainant in the 800 block of County Road E reported receiving several phone calls from her exboyfriend, 38, against who she has an OFP.

• A woman in the 900 block of County Road D reported being scammed out of $1,500 on Sept. 25.

• A resident in the 4400 block of Wood Duck Drive on Sept. 25 reported six compact discs stolen out of her room.

• A vehicle parked at Sucker Lake Park in the 4500 block of Rice Street was reported dam-

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

aged Sept. 25, after its driver’s side window was smashed in.

• A Mahtomedi man reported his vehicle stolen while it was parked in the 800 block of County Road E.

• Deputies issued trespass notices Sept. 25 to a Vadnais Heights woman, 41, a St. Paul woman, 60, and a West St. Paul man, 31, after learning all three were violating their lease agreement in the 4200 block of Glen Oaks Avenue.

White Bear Township

• An aspiring artist in the 1500 block of Seneca Trail on Sept. 23 reported being scammed out of a large amount of money by someone online who promised to collaborate with him on a new song.

• A boat was reported stolen off its mooring at Matoska Park in the 2600 block of Lake Avenue on Sept. 24. After the owner recovered the boat near Rutherford Park, he realized the motor had been stolen off the boat.

• A White Bear Township man, 40, and a White Bear Township woman, 37, were arrested at 11:40 p.m. Sept. 25 for domestic assault, after deputies responded to a disturbance in the 4200 block of Glen Oaks Avenue and learned the two had hit each other during an argument that became violent.

• A resident in the 5900 block of Mallard Ponds Drive on Sept. 26 reported an iPhone he had ordered stolen out of its shipping box.

• A Vadnais Heights woman reported her car broken into Sept. 28 while it was parked in the 5200 block of Otter Lake Road. The thieves then stole credit cards and cash.

Sheriff’s office, SWAT responds to weekend standoff in Willernie

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County SWAT, and Lakeview EMS responded to a domestic incident at approximately 10:45 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26 at a residence in the 200 block of Wildwood Road, Willernie. According to the WCSO, a male at the residence was reportedly under the influence of controlled substances, acting erratic, and armed with knives.

The man has been identified as Travis Terry Emerfoll, 47. Emerfoll was also found to have several felony warrants for 2nd degree assult with a dangerous weapon and felony domestic assault.

As deputies attempted contact, Emerfoll came to the door of a screened-in porch with knives, and continued to act erratic. Deputies attempted to negotiate with him for several hours, and also attempted non-

lethal options before he retreated into the home.

The situation escalated and SWAT was activated at approximately 1 p.m. The SWAT team attempted to engage in negotiations and employed lesslethal and non-lethal options over the next 9 hours.

Emerfoll was taken into custody around 10:30 p.m. and transported to the hospital to be treated for effects of controlled substance use and withdrawl. He was booked into the Washington County jail the following morning for outstanding warrants and new charges of felony obstructing the legal process and felony domestic assault.

The Mahtomedi Fire Department was also on standby, and officials said the department’s parking lot was used as a staging area for law enforcement personnel.

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

The White Bear Lake Police Department reported on the following incidents:

• Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 1500 block of Highway 96 Oct. 9.

• Officers responded to a violation of a protection order in the 1900 block of County Road F Oct. 9.

• A Mahtomedi woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 4400 block of Lake Avenue Oct. 10.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the area of Division Avenue and 11th Street Oct 10.

• Theft was reported Oct. 11 in the 2300 block of Cedar Avenue.

• A domestic family incident was

reported in the 2400 block of Floral Drive Oct. 11.

• Theft was reported in the 3500 block of McKnight Road Oct. 11.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4900 block of Highway 61 Oct. 11.

• A noise complaint was reported in the 4700 block of Washington Square Oct. 12.

• Officers responded to disorderly conduct complaints Oct, 12 in the 1900 block of Elm Street, the 5000 block of Division Avenue, and the intersection of Bald Eagle Avenue and Eugene Street.

• Officers investigated an animal complaint in the 3800 block of Oak Terrace Oct. 13.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

REDEEMER HOLIDAY FAIR

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Nov. 2

Where: Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3770 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake

Details: Scandinavian Coffee shop from 9 a.m.-noon; Craft and bake sale from 10 a.m.-noon. Also silent auction. Contact: 651-429-5411

57TH ANNUAL SILENT AUCTION AND BAKE SALE

When: 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 2

Where: Parkview United Chiurch of Christ, 3737 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake

Details: Fundraiser for church mission and outreach includes hundreds of items to bid on.

Contact: 651-429-3346

BALD EAGLE HALF MARATHON

When: 8 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 3

Where: 5767 Hugo Road, White Bear Township

Details: Quiet course aroubnd

Bald Eagle Lake and surrounding countryside, followed by pancake breakfast. Contact: mmraces.com

TRICK OR TREAT AT THE FILLEBROWN

When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Avenue, White Bear Lake

Details: Stop by the historic lakeside cottage to pick candy. High School History Club also collecting food donations.

Contact: whitebearhistory. org

KOWALSKI’S STRIVE 10 MILER AND 5K

When: Noon Sunday, Nov. 3

Where: Boatworks Commons, 4495 Lake Avenue S. Details: 10 mile course around White Bear Lake; 5K on path along lake. Proceeds support Strive scholarship program. Contact: whitebearrotary.org

CONSIDER THE LILIES: AN APPALACIAN REQUIEM

When: 4-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3

Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch Street Details: Church Chancel Choir and guest orchestra performance based on the music of folk tunes from Northern Georgia. Contact: wblumc.org

White Bear Lake Area

Church Directory

Weekly Outlook

Weather Tidbits

We received some much needed rain last week, October 24. I totaled 0.49” which went in line with other reports. It settled the dust and I mowed my yard for the first time in almost two months. This past weekend’s weather was spectacular and this week started off with near or record highs. It’s hard to tell how much longer this is going to last but the days are getting shorter and they will bring in cooler overnights and eventually cooler highs. In the meantime enjoy the pleasant weather. Don’t forget Daylight Saving time ends on Sunday. Set clocks back 1 hour.

Frank Watson

White Bear Lake master bird bander widens Scouts’ outdoor world

BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

It’s not often adults get a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with wild birds of prey. For youth involved with Scouts BSA, on the other hand, it could be any old Saturday.

On one recent weekend, 18 Scouts from BSA Troop 639 held a “bird banding campout” in northern Minnesota. The experience was a first for all involved, and made possible by one Scout’s grandfather, master bander and White Bear Lake resident Frank Taylor.

Taylor greeted the troop at the banding site with the day’s first capture already in hand: a sharp-shinned hawk. He proceeded to tell all about that species’ physical features, diet and migration. He then enlisted the Scouts to help him record the bird’s measurements and information from its newly attached band. One fortunate Scout, Declan Johnson, was chosen to release it back onto its journey south.

As he worked, Taylor showed the Scouts his equipment, talked about the banding process and shared more about raptors and their migration through northwestern Minnesota. He explained that since the vast water of Lake Superior doesn’t produce the warm air thermals the birds need to make their long migrations, they are funneled down the North Shore. As a result, they

pass his banding station— and Duluth’s famous Hawk Ridge—in large numbers each fall.

If anyone could teach a bunch of Scouts about all these things, it would be Taylor. This is the 55th year he has banded raptors in the same location in St. Louis County. In that time, he has banded over 5,000 birds on a volunteer basis under the U.S. Geological Survey’s rigorous oversight. Sharp-shinned hawks, like the one Johnson released, are the most captured in Taylor’s nets year after year. He had a simple explanation for that.

“Because there’s more of them!” he laughed. “Actually, there are two birds that come through Duluth in big numbers: the sharp-shinned hawks and the broad-winged hawks. Well, most of the adult broad-winged hawks stop eating when they migrate, so

every once in a while we’ll catch an immature broad wing that is hungry. But most of the sharp-shinned hawks are real hungry, real aggressive, so we catch more of those.”

After the first bird release, Taylor and the Scouts hunkered down to wait for the next raptor. While they waited, a “kettle” of broadwinged hawks gathered on a thermal overhead. An eagle made a thrilling fly-by and, at least twice, red-tailed hawks circled and swooped, but did not make contact with the net. Within an hour, another sharp-shinned hawk was in hand.

Taylor again asked Scouts to help him with measuring and banding the bird. When all the paperwork was done, Owen Tollefson picked the lucky number and was allowed to release it.

“It was very cool,” recalled

Tollefson, his face lighting up. “He taught me how to hold it and stuff. So I had to hold it in my hand, and on the count of three I released it and it went straight back into the woods.”

It is no coincidence that Taylor has provided experiences like Tollefson’s for decades. Education has been at the center of his involvement with raptors for years, including his time as curator of education birds at The Raptor Center. He and his wife Trudi, a retired professor of education, have hosted many visitors to the banding station over the years. Taylor cited groups associated with the National Eagle Center, DNR, Minnesota Zoo and many college biology departments.

“I love talking about it and showing people, and what’s there and why it goes on, ” he said.

According to Troop 639

Different as DAY & NIGHT

Scoutmaster Kurt Then, tapping into Taylor’s expertise was a no-brainer. “We are always looking for unique and fun experiences for the Scouts,” he said. “Through events like these, the Scouts are learning and experiencing things you can’t get through other activities.”

He said that thanks to Frank Taylor’s knowledge and generous spirit, the Scouts who ventured north for an up-close encounter with raptors will remember it for a lifetime.

Owen Tollefson would likely agree. “It was just so cool. I felt like I wouldn’t have an experience like this, probably never in my life again,” he said.

Learn more about Frank Taylor’s bird banding at bandingreports.blogspot. com, and Troop 639 at www.troopwebhost.org/ Troop639NorthOaks/

Patty Bradway Brion Curran

Where Patty Stands

1. Pass common sense tax cuts and audit all government programs.

2. End the revolving door of the criminal justice system and seek justice for victims.

3. Fully fund our Law Enforcement organizations.

4. Remove the 64 unfunded mandates burdening our schools and focus legislation on supporting teachers and student’s academics.

5. Proviide options for parents to educate their children and raise them without government interference.

6. Restore religious freedom and religious exemptions to MN Human Rights Act (HRA).

7. Keep the “firewall” against pedophilia listed in the Human Rights Act. (HRA).

PATTY IS ENDORSED BY The Minnesota Police & Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) OCCUPATION Nurse, 37 Years 36B RESIDENCY Homeowner 31 Years

What Brion Supported

1. Voted to raise $10 billion dollars in new taxes [HF1938] and wasted the $18 billion dollar surplus.

2. Voted yes on a major criminal justice bill that’s soft on crime, eliminates mandatory minimum sentences and gives $70M to“violence interrupters” not law enforcement Officers. [SF2909]

3. Voted yes on education omnibus bill with 64 unfunded mandates, e.g. ethnic/systemic racism studies and controversial new teacher licensure standards. [HF2497]

4. Voted to give Minnesota Driver’s Licenses to illegal immigrants via HF4.

5. Voted for “Gender-affirming care” for minors without parental consent. [HF 146]

6. Voted against restoring long-standing religious exemption to the MN Human Rights Act. [HF3926]

7. Voted to remove language, a “firewall” against pedophilia, from MN Human Rights Act. [SF2909] [HF3926]

BRION IS ENDORSED BY OutFront Minnesota OCCUPATION Licensed Police Officer, 50 Days 36B RESIDENCY Unknown Location / Duration

ROY HEILMAN | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

White Bear Lake resident and master bander Frank Taylor shows Troop 639 Scouts one of dozens of birds he has caught and banded this season.

Troop 639 Scout Owen Tollefson releases a freshly banded sharp-shinned hawk to continue its migration.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Financial tips for young professionals

Young adults confront something of a juggling act once they begin their professional lives. For many, that challenge begins with landing and starting a first job, arranging a payment plan for student loans, finding a place to live, and determining savings and personal finance goals. Although entering the workforce and taking a big step toward financial independence can be exciting, it also comes with financial responsibility. Setting a strong financial foundation as early as possible helps establish long-term financial security. These tips can help young professionals manage their money more effectively.

· Take a money management course. Young professionals may be tired of heading to class or making the grade at this point in life, but educating oneself about some of the basic rules of personal finance can help bridge knowledge gaps in this arena. Many young adults have never been taught the basics of applying for credit and staying out of debt. If you’ve been riding your parents’ financial coattails throughout school, now is the time to learn more, whether it’s through an online course or reading up on the subject.

· Set SMART goals. The acronym SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant,

and Time-bound, and can serve as a roadmap to achieving various goals, including those related to money. Develop a clear plan for your money, which can make it easier to budget and achieve savings-related goals.

· Minimize debt. The Education Data Initiative says university graduates owe an average of $28,244 on student loans after they leave school, with a monthly payment between $200 and $299. Some graduates have even more debt and higher payments. Managing debt is vital to anyone’s finances. Create a debt repayment plan at the earliest opportunity. With

a “snowball” strategy, borrowers pay off their smallest debts first. Once a debt is paid off, the payment amount for that debt is then applied to the next smallest debt, gaining momentum with each payment. The “avalanche” approach involves paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first.

· Aim to pay with cash more often. Unless you can afford to pay off the balance in full every month, using credit cards a lot can contribute to debt accumulation. LendingTree says that, as of September 2024, the average APR on all new card offers was 24.92%. Buying items with cash

or debit will reduce the likelihood of spending what you don’t have, offers Investopedia.

· Set up an emergency fund. It might be challenging to set aside a lot of money right now when you have an entry-level position and some debt. But setting aside as little as $1,000 for unexpected life events separate from your own personal savings can shield you from issues that arise from unexpected expenses.

· Participate in employer benefit plans. Look for the various ways that your employer can help you save money. This may include participating in retirement plans (including those with employer contribution matches), health spending accounts, gym memberships, and additional opportunities.

· Start saving and investing now. According to SmartAsset, if you start investing $150 a paycheck at age 25 and your investments have an average annualized return of 8%, after 40 years you’ll have about $1.1 million in your account. Investing the same at age 35 means cutting nearly half of that total simply by procrastinating. There are many ways young professionals can develop strong financial skills. Working with a certified financial planner also can help young professionals grow wealth over the course of their lives.

AI: Schools navigate benefits of new technology

and social interactions.

“By instilling a strong ethical foundation now, we have the opportunity to support students to take academic risks while harnessing the potential of AI,” she explained.

White Bear Lake Schools

Included in the White Bear Lake Area Schools’ Technology Department’s Strategic Plan is the facilitation of districtwide conversations about AI to develop board policy. Also included in the plan is training and guidelines for teachers, administrators and students.

According to staff members within the district, these conversations stem from a belief in leveraging AI as a collaborative partner and transformative tool that enhances learning and cultivates flexible, critical thinking and a commitment to ethical AI practices that promote privacy, security, access, equity, integrity,

transparency and providing the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic, technology-driven world.

This work falls within the district’s strategy of ensuring the district’s organization continuously transforms to fulfill its mission, and will continue this school year.

Mounds View High School

The district addresses the topic of AI in its student handbook. Under “Academic Dishonesty,” it reads that at Mounds View High School “we are committed to guiding responsible, safe and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through the development of clear AI guidelines that support both teachers and students to engage with, innovate and make informed decisions.”

“We created this based on our understanding on how kids are using it and wanting to create more clarity for them,” said Mounds View High School Principal Rob Reetz. “Less

because we want to catch them doing it, more because we want to guide them on what not to do.”

According to the student handbook, staff may use AI detection tools as part of their grading process.

Once students demonstrate the ability to consistently move their critical thinking to a paper, be able to make claims and support them with evidence, Reetz said then the conversation should move to how AI can be used to support or enhance critical thinking.

“I don’t want it to replace student work before they know how to write and think critically,” Reetz added. “Your writing is essentially the communication of this critical thinking that you’ve been engaged in.”

He also added that students need to be taught how to ensure the research provided to them by AI is accurate. Teachers are also helping students understand that not everything AI produces is a reliable resource.

Have confidence in your financial strategy

At the Wellspring Advisor Group of Thrivent, we see money as a tool, not a goal. Our approach is based on helping you prepare for the future, protect the people you love, and live a life rich in meaning and gratitude. Reach out to learn more about how we can help you create a strong financial future for your family.

• Comprehensive dedicated planning based on your goals and values.

• Investment management strategies (Roth IRAs, 401(k) rollovers, IRAs).

• Retirement income planning.

• Tax and estate strategies.

• Insurance to help safeguard your loved ones.

• Charitable giving strategies and solutions.

• College planning.

WBLAS COMMUNITY SERVICES & RECREATION

ADULT & SENIOR CLASSES AT THE WB SENIOR CENTER REGISTRATION REQUIRED - 651-653-3121

55+ Driver Safety: $35: 11/12-Online, 1-5pm | 11/15-Sr Center, 9am-1pm | 11/19-Online 5:309:30pm

Senior Housing: Should I Stay or Go? Nov 5, 1011:30am, $5, Sr Center

Pickleball Lessons: Tues, Nov 5-26, 6:30-8pm, $115

Everything Medicare: Nov 6 1-2:30pm $5, Sr Center

Stay Loose & Manage Pain: Nov 6, 9:3011:30am, $25, Mahtomedi

Estate Planning Seminar: Nov 7, 10-11am, $5, Sr Center

Google Sheets for Beginners: Nov 7, 12-1PM $20 Online

Veterans Day Ice Cream Social: Nov 8, 1:303pm, Sr Center

Prepare Wisely: Estate Planning: Nov 12, 1011:30am, $5, Sr Center

Photo Organization: Nov 12, 6:30-8:30pm. $30, Sr Center Paint & Learn: Post Impressionist Chagall: 11/14, 10am-12pm, $40, Sr Center

Bingo: Nov 20, 1-2:30pm, $5, Sr Center FootCare Clinic: 30-minute appointment ($50). Call 651-653-3121.

LYNGBLOMSTEN COMMUNITY SERVICE

NOVEMBER 2024

Meals on Wheels: Hot or Frozen meals delivered Monday-Friday. If you are interested, know of someone who may need meals, or have questions, please call 651-653-3123.

November is National Family Caregivers Month. To all the family caregivers out there, please know that your commitment to caring is invaluable. You matter. We celebrate you! Lyngblomsten Community Services supports family caregivers of older adults through education, respite programming, memory loss caregiver support groups, local resource recommendations, and more. Reach out to us with your caregiver needs, questions, or concerns: (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org.

The Gathering enrichment program provides brain-stimulating activities for adults living with memory loss and four hours of respite for their caregivers. We have weekly meetings on Wednesdays at the Lyngblomsten campus in Lino Lakes and on Thursdays at St. John in the Wilderness Church in White Bear Lake. To learn more, contact Lisa Brown at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org.

In-Person Memory Loss Caregiver Support Group: Family and friends caring for someone experiencing Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia are welcome. The group meets the third Wednesday of each month at Lyngblomsten

at Lino Lakes and is facilitated by Lisa Brown, MSW, LISW, Caregiver Services Program Coordinator. Registration is preferred, but walkins are welcome. To register, contact Lisa at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org. Free but voluntary donations are appreciated.

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

TUESDAYS: Cribbage - FREE 1:00-3:00 PM

WEDNESDAYS: Bridge - FREE 1:00-4:00 PM

THURSDAYS: 500 Cards - FREE 12:30-3:00 PM

FRIDAYS: Games - FREE 12:30-3:00 PM; Bridge - FREE 1:00-3:00 PM; Book Club - FREE 2nd

Friday, 10:00-11:30 AM

Bingo - FREE. Monday Nov. 25, 1:30-3:00 PM

Mahtomedi Evening Star Quilters - FREE.

Meeting: Tuesday, Nov. 26, 5:30-8:00 PM

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

Simplified Social Media for Business - $25. Virtual. Tuesday Nov. 5, 12-1 PM. Stay Loose and Manage Pain with Self Myofascial Release (SMR) - $25. Wednesday Nov. 6, 9:30-11:30 AM.

How to Decide When to Sell Your House FREE. Wednesday Nov. 6, 7-8 PM. History with Kathy Simmer “I’ve Been Working On the Railroad” - $18. Wednesday Nov. 6 or Monday Nov 11, 10AM-12PM. Five Keys to Retiring Fearlessly - FREE. Virtual. Thursday Nov. 7, 12-1 PM

Understanding Alzheimer’s and DementiaFREE. Wednesday Nov. 13, 7-8 PM

Dr. Mark Seeley: Climate Change Impacts on Our National Parks - $25. Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-7:30 PM Everything You Want To Know About Medicare - FREE. Monday, Nov. 18, 6:30-8 PM Wine Glass Painting - $40. Monday, Nov. 18, 5:30-7:30 PM

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.

55+ 4-Hour Defensive Driving Class - $35. Virtual. Tuesday, Nov 19, 5:30-9:30 PM. 55+ 4-Hour Defensive Driving Class - $35. Tuesday, Dec. 3, 9AM - 1PM Community Lunch - $12. Monday, Dec. 9, 12-1 PM

• Aquatic Therapy

• Occupational Therapy

• Physical Therapy

• Speech Pathology

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

CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-24-6234 JUDGE LEONARDO CASTRO AMENDED NOTICE OF HEARING County of Ramsey, Petitioner,

v. Jeffrey D. Halverson, Kathleen Halverson, State of Minnesota Department of Transportation-Metro Right of Way, Premier Bank, Vadnais Vine & Liquor, Inc., Minneapolis SMSA Limited Partnership c/o U S West NewVector Group, Inc., T14 MelTel, LLC., Verizon Wireless, LLC., Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc., Dokmo Northwood Villa, LLC., Alliance Bank, Victor De La Cruz, Rosalie De La Cruz, Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Persaud Properties Equities, LLC., Qwest Corporation, Gervais Lake Apartments, LLC., Vadnais Lincoln Limited Partnership, Northern States Power Company, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Colliers Mortgage, LLC., Trellis Co., Del Co Limited Partnership, Steve Cruz, Ciiab Lor, Ya K Yang, Oscar Omar Lopez, Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC., Tyrone J. Moore, U.S. Bank, NA, Mesa Investments, LLC., Ronald T. Jarosch, Judy A. Jarosch, MidWestOne Bank, Jason J. Groholski, City of Vadnais Heights, City of Maplewood, City of Little Canada, County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including. unknown spouses, if any, Respondents.

IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE RESPONDENTS HEREIN ABOVE NAMED:

The purpose of this amendment is to correct a scrivener’s error of the prior notice which contained an incorrect case number and assigned judge. This amended notice of hearing contain the correct court file number and judge. You, and each of you, are hereby notified that on the 27 day of December, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. via ZOOM before Judge Leonardo Castro. Petitioner will present to the above-named court a Petition now on file herein for condemnation of certain land for highway purposes. Parties wishing to appear at the remote hearing at 9:00 a.m. on December 27, 2024, can join by logging into zoomgov.com. After connecting, enter the following Meeting ID and Passcode:

Meeting ID: 161 397 7241

Passcode: 084871

If you plan to appear by ZOOM, please notify the petitioner’s attorney listed below in order to receive a copy of any proposed exhibits and orders provided to the court. You are not required to notify the petitioner’s attorney, but failure to do so may prevent you from having access to the exhibits and proposed orders submitted. The object of the Petition is to acquire by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the real property interests as described in the Petition. The land desired and proposed to be taken are situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota, and are described in the Petition, together with the names of all persons appearing of record or known to Petitioner to be the owners of said land or interested therein including all whom Petitioner has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each as nearly as can be ascertained.

At the hearing, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court for an order permitting payment to the respective owners or deposit with the Court an amount equal to Petitioner’s approved appraisal of value of the parcels described in the Petition, thereby transferring title and the right to possession of the property to the County of Ramsey effective February 1, 2025. Furthermore, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to ascertain the allocation of funds so deposited and to establish a procedure for the withdrawal of those funds. Neither payment to the respective owners nor deposit with the Court shall prejudice or affect the right of a respective party to apply for additional payment in this proceeding. Finally, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to establish procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein.

A party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the court hearing and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a court order, and a court order approving the public use or public purpose, necessity, and authority for the taking is final unless an appeal is brought within 60 days after service of the order on the party. Furthermore, a party wishing to be heard as to the appointment of the commissioners who will ascertain the amount of damages must appear at the court hearing.

Any person not appearing at the hearing, or otherwise filing a notice of appearance with the district court, may not be notified of further hearings or actions related to the Petition.

Dated: October 23, 2024 JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn (#0222239) Kevin S. Plaisance (#0504690)

Assistant Ramsey County Attorney 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3041 (Schwahn) (651) 266-3178 (Plaisance) scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us kevin.plaisance@co.ramsey.mn.us

Attorneys for Petitioner

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on October 30, November 6 and 13, 2024.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-24-6234 JUDGE LEONARDO CASTRO PETITION County of Ramsey, Petitioner,

IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND

TO: THE DISTRICT COURT ABOVE NAMED

The County of Ramsey brings this Petition and respectfully states and alleges:

That this proceeding is taken pursuant to law in the name of and on behalf of the County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, by John J. Choi, the duly elected, qualified and acting County Attorney, at the request of the Board of County Commissioners of Ramsey County, as shown by County Board Resolution No. B2021-040, dated February 16, 2021, a certified copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof. II.

That the County of Ramsey also deems it necessary, expedient, and for a public use and purpose to obtain by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the permanent easements and temporary construction easements in the lands as described in this Petition, together with all structures, trees, shrubs, grass and herbage to be damaged thereby. III.

In the attached Exhibit B, where “fee title” is identified, the interest being conveyed is fee simple title.

IV.

In the attached Exhibit B, where a “permanent easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights necessary for the construction, operation, and maintenance of all public right-of-way and utility uses now known or adopted in the future. Such rights include, but are not limited to, the right: to remove and use all plants, trees, ground cover, and natural growth now existing, or later planted or grown; to permanently grade or alter the grade of the land, and to remove and use all earth and other material not reasonably necessary for lateral and subjacent support; to limit or allow the location, number, and related characteristics of access from the remainder property to the public right-of-way; to store equipment or supplies; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; to remove any physical improvements or fixtures that interfere with its use as a public right-of-way; and to exclude from the area any use or improvement that conflicts with the rights conveyed herein. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained.

In the attached Exhibit B, where a “temporary easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights of possession and use, for a limited period of time, necessary or incidental to support the related construction project, including the right: to stage equipment or supplies; to access other portions of the construction project; to make minimal permanent alterations to the grade of the land that do not substantially impact the remainder; to remove (and restore in substantially similar condition) any plants, ground cover, or physical improvements; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; and to install any temporary improvements. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained. The term of the temporary easement shall be for 24 months beginning on March 1, 2025 and ending March 1, 2027, or for 24 months from the date when granted pursuant to order of the district court, whichever is later. In addition, the interests identified in this paragraph include the option of the Petitioner to extend the temporary easement for up to two six-month terms to be held consecutive to the original term and to each other at the monthly rate determined for the initial term.

VI.

Personal property not specifically identified as being acquired, including, but not limited to, fencing, irrigation systems, pavement, curbing, or signage, or trees, shrubs, plants, or ground covering, is not included in this petition, except to the extent the above rights provide for the removal, replacement, use, or repair of such property. It is the intention of the Petitioner to address any claim of damage related to personal property destroyed, removed, lost, or otherwise damaged, but not repaired or replaced in substantially similar condition, in accordance with applicable relocation laws, including Minn. Stat. § 117.50 - .56 or the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, and any regulations adopted pursuant thereto.

VII.

That the purpose for which said interests in land described in this Petition are being acquired is for the widening, addition to and realignment of County Road D for the purpose of public travel and transportation and related uses.

VIII.

The taking in this matter is to obtain rights sufficient to support the construction and maintenance of a public highway, including related facilities. Unless specifically identified, pre-existing utility, pipeline, access, and other easements or interests shall remain in full force and effect and shall only be impaired to the extent necessary for the County of Ramsey to construct and maintain a public highway, and related uses, on the land being acquired. For any parcel being taken by this condemnation proceeding that is subject to pre-existing utility, pipeline, access, or other easements or interests, the County of Ramsey shall work as needed with the easement holder to adjust facilities to accommodate the construction or to adjust construction plans to minimize related damages.

IX.

It is the intent of the Petitioner that reasonable access, in at least one direction, to the main thoroughfare will be maintained for any remaining interest of a property from which a permanent or temporary easement is taken.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, should tests or evaluations undertaken by or on behalf of the County of Ramsey indicate the possible presence of pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous substances on any of the property described in this Petition, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to defer effecting the transfer of the interest to any of the property as described herein for a reasonable time until the County of Ramsey can evaluate whether it wishes to proceed with the taking, abandon these proceedings and dismiss the Petition as to said property, or otherwise respond to such information.

Further, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to recover costs of cleanup and testing and all other damages resulting from the presence of pollutants, contaminates, or hazardous substances on the property described herein, from all potentially responsible parties in a separate legal action.

XI.

That a party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the hearing of this Court at which the County of Ramsey, as Petitioner, shall present this Petition to the Court and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a Court order.

XII.

That the land in these proceedings to be taken are situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota and are more particularly described in attached Exhibit B which is made a part hereof. The names of all persons appearing of record or known to the County of Ramsey to be the owners of said land, or interested therein, including all whom the County of Ramsey has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each, as nearly as can be ascertained, are set forth on attached Exhibit B.

XIII.

The County of Ramsey hereby moves the court for an order transferring title and possession of the parcels described herein prior to filing of an award by the court appointed commissioners, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 117.042.

WHEREFORE, the County of Ramsey prays for an order of this Court as follows:

1. Adjudging that said taking is for a public purpose, is necessary, and is authorized by law; and

2. It be further adjudged that the County of Ramsey is entitled to take and hold such property for the public use pursuant to the Notice of Intent to Take Possession, on file with this Court; and

3. Appointing three disinterested commissioners, and at least two alternates, to ascertain and report the amount of damages that will be sustained by the several owners on account of the taking; fixing the time and place of the first meeting of the three commissioners; prescribing their compensation; establishing procedures for the disbursement of funds deposited with the

district court; establishing procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein; and requiring the commissioners to file their report with the District Court Administrator within 365 days from the date of the order appointing the commissioners unless said time be further extended by order of the Court; and

4. For such other and further relief as may be proper and pursuant to law.

Dated: October 23, 2024

JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn (#0222239) Kevin S. Plaisance (#0504690)

Assistant Ramsey County Attorney 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3041 (Schwahn) (651) 266-3178 (Plaisance) scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us kevin.plaisance@co.ramsey.mn.us

Attorneys for Petitioner

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The undersigned hereby acknowledges that costs, disbursements, and reasonable attorney and witness fees may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. Section 549.211 to the party against whom the allegations in this pleading are asserted.

/s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn

EXHIBIT A RAMSEY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION B2021-040

Sponsor: Public Works

Meeting Date: 2/16/2021

Title: 2021 - 2025 Transportation Improvement Program File Number: 2021-037

Background and Rationale:

In order to qualify for state and federal funding and to proceed with construction projects, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners must approve the Public Works 5-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP is a planning document and funding estimates identified in the TIP are reflected in the County’s Capital Improvements Program Budget. Similar programs havebeen developed each year since 1988.

The Public Works Department, annually, prepares the TIP using a collaborative process whereby the County solicits projects and input from area municipalities. Project inclusion in the TIP is based on a cooperative dialogue with municipal and state partners, along with technical analysis and consideration of funding opportunities. While funding limits will continue to challenge program delivery, communication and engagement with municipal partners ensures local needs and prioritiesare examined and addressed to the extent possible. Projects included in the TIP are also looked at through the lens of the Ramsey County All Abilities Transportation Network (AATN) policy, which prioritizes the most vulnerable users (i.e. pedestrians, bicyclists, people with disabilities) first.

The design, construction and right of way costs identified in the TIP are estimates based on best practices in the industry. The funding landscape for transportation projects can be volatile and the ultimate delivery of the TIP is dependent on future funding levels. Partnering on projects with area communities, bordering counties, the Minnesota Department of Transportation and other state agencies will continue to be a critical way for Ramsey County to get the most from our available funds.

Recommendation:

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners resolved to:

1. Adopt the 2021-2025 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

2. Authorize the County Engineer to prepare plans and agreements for all projects identified in the TIP, and to issue solicitations in accordance with County policies and procedures and the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s list of “Pre-Qualified Vendors by Work Type”.

3. Authorize the County Engineer to execute Right of Way Plats and Certificate of Surveys for Highway projects that require the determination of existing right of way for the delineation and /or acquisition of property, for planning studies or disposition of excess County property.

4. Authorize the County Manager to enter into contracts and agreements, and execute change orders and amendments to contracts, supplemental agreements, and agreements related to theexpenditure of TIP Project Funds utilizing County State Aid, Federal, and participating funding associated with the construction of the approved projects in the 2021-2025 or a previously approved TIP in accordance with the County’s procurement policies and procedures.

5. Authorize the County Engineer and County Attorney to acquire temporary easements, permanent easements, fee title, and enter into Limited Use Permits with the State of Minnesota for projects in the 2021-2025 TIP, or previously approved TIP, by negotiation or condemnation.

6. Authorize the County Engineer to approve negotiated settlements for up to $100,000 over the County’s appraised value per parcel for temporary and permanent easements and fee title.

7. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute purchase agreements, settlements, closing documents, Limited Use Permits, and other related real estate documentation associated with County Board approved acquisitions of real property.

8. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute cooperative agreements and maintenance agreements with cities, counties, the State, and other governmental agencies for their participation in projects listed in the 2021-2025 Public Works TIP or previously approved TIP.

9. Authorize temporary cash loans from the County General Fund to the Road and Bridge Capital Improvement Program fund and the Wheelage Tax fund for costs of projects listed in the 2021-2025 Public Works Transportation Program, or previously approved TIP, and for maintenance project expenditures occurring before bond or wheelage tax proceeds are received pending receipt of Federal, County State Aid Highway, State, participating funds.

A motion to approve was made by Commissioner McGuire, seconded by Commissioner MatasCastillo.

Motion passed.

Aye: - 7: Carter, Frethem, MatasCastillo, McDonough, McGuire, Ortega, and Reinhardt

By: Janet Guthrie

Attest: /s/ Mee Cheng

Chief Clerk - County Board, Mee Cheng Date Certified

EXHIBIT B

PARCEL 5

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across the north 9.00 feet of the south 42.00 feet of the following described property: That part of the west 50.0 feet of the east 599.0 feet of the south 377.75 feet of the Southeast Quarter of Section 32, Township 30, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota, subject to Highway and County Road D. PIN: 32-30-22-44-0006 – Abstract Property

(Continued on next page)

Local Halloween spirit sightings

Above: A colorful collection of costumed characters takes off from the starting point at Otter Lake Elementary School during the recent Halloween themed Bear Scare event.

At right: Ellowyn Davis and Rylen, Ivy and Ella Puschinsky made the rounds in downtown White Bear Lake, collecting treats from businesses participating in the Candy Crawl event.

Above: Hazel Rachut poses with the pumpkin she carved during the Fall Community Day event at the White Bear Center for the Arts that featured a variety of art activities.

At left: Accompanied by the guitar and melodica music of Joseph Walker and Jay Walker Paz, Development Manager Lori Swanson leads a costume parade outside the center for the arts.

AND OUTDOORS

Bear girls XC team wins close section, heads for state

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

After White Bear Lake girls cross county won an extremely close section meet, their coach Bear alum Audrey Kirschlng, was asked how long it’s been since that happened — a question she could easily answer.

“The last time White Bear won sections was in 2017, my senior year on the team! This was also the last time White Bear has come in first at a meet,” Kirschling said.

So the Bears, who placed third in their conference a week earlier, had not won a meet in seven years but figured they had as good a chance as anyone in Section 4AAA, which has no ranked teams, if they ran well. After all seven Bears puffed their way into the chute at Highland National Golf Club, they kept their eyes peeled on the scoreboard that quickly

tabulated the results.

“Then they just all started screaming and cheering,” said Logan Bailey, the Bears’ lead runner, about her teammates.

White Bear Lake 58, St. Paul Central 60, Two Rivers 60 is what the scoreboard said, as close a meet as you could imagine, to earn a trip to state as a team.

Following were Woodbury with 85, Stillwater 94, East Ridge 152

and Tartan 214.

Kirschling said the Bears prevailed by “working as a team and using each other as a momentum. They have built strength on each other. They’ve built relationships.”

The kids knew what opponents they needed to run with and beat. “We didn’t have any crazy surprises. We all ran about like we expected to.”

Bears have 4 qualifiers for boys x-country

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake had three of the top eight runners and four state qualifiers, but just missed qualifying as a team in the Section 4AAA cross country meet.

Vaughn Larson, the Bears senior leader, placed second in 15:57.8, just behind Stillwater senior Dylan Riniker in 15:55.7, to earn his fourth state trip.

Bear junior Max Popp was seventh in 16:24, junior Isaac Kolstad eighth in 16:24.9, and senior Andrew Greene 15th in 16:38, all qualifying for the state run Saturday at 1 p.m., at the University of Minnesota Golf Course. Their fifth score was sophomore Graham Newlander in 21st in 17:08.

Stillwater had four of the top ten runners and won with 30 points. Two Rivers scored 47 and the Bears 53. The top two advance.

“Two Rivers just

had more depth than us at the five through seven spots,” assessed Dan Kovacich, Bears coach. “The boys gave it everything they had. We were just beaten by two better teams.”

The Section 4AAA field was quite strong with Stillwater ranked fifth, Two Rivers seventh and the Bears ninth. The state meet has 16 teams. “Being ranked, and not be in the state meet as a team, is a hard pill to swallow, but I was

proud of the boys today,” Kovacich said. Larson, who placed sixth last year, battled Riniker, a familiar rival, all 5,000 meters. “We were off and on in the last track season,” Larson said. “He got me the first two meets this year. I beat him last week in the conference. I thought I was going to kind of sit back and kick at the end like I did at the conference, but he just had more than me at the end.”

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Amelia Nachtsheim

White Bear Lake Cross Country

Amelia Nachtsheim is a White Bear Lake captain in three sports and she’s going to the state meet with one of those teams, cross country, on Saturday. The lone senior in the top seven, Nachtsheim helped the Bears win a close Section 4AAA meet by placing 11th a week after making all-conference, placing 17th in the strong SEC field. She is also co-captain in Nordic Ski and track-and-field. “I’ve seen a dramatic change in our team culture because of her ability to reach younger athletes and make them feel a part of the team,” said Audrey Kirschling, her coach in CC and track. As a runner, she “ worked extremely hard to get to where she is now.”

The Bears will be one of 16 teams running in the Class 3A girls meet starting 12:15 p.m. Saturday at the University of Minnesota Golf Course.

Bailey, a freshman, placed second in 18:43 behind East Ridge senior Lydia Franson (18:36). Bailey is turning in the Bears’ best times since allstater Maggie Blanding in 2017. She is daughter of former Bear standout Brian Bailey, now the coach of the Roseville Area boys. She is also a hockey player.

The Bears got a big boost from seventh-grader Isla Bloomquist finishing ninth in 19:37. “She is just learning how to run the race, the whole race,” Kirschling said. Following were senior Amelia Nachtsheim, 11th in 19:45; sophomore Clara Kolstad, 17th in 20:39.8; sophomore Erika Milhofer, 21st in 21:01.2; seventh-grader Anna Rogers, 28th in 21:26; and junior Brynn Heinsohn, 31st in 21:32.

Zephyr trio advances to state cross country

Mahtomedi has three state qualifiers in cross country — Matthew Johnson, Matthew Studenski and Vanesa Rogosheske — after the boys and girls teams each placed fourth in Section 4AA.

The Zephyr trio will run Saturday at the University of Minnesota Golf Course, with girls at 10 a.m. and boys at 10:45 a.m.

The St. Paul Como Park boys had six of the top seven, led by champion Charlie Loth in 16:21. St. Anthony Village was the girls champion. Hill-Murray’s Olivia Braunshausen placed first in 20:06. Johnson, a senior, was the only non-Como Park runner in the top seven, in fifth place in 16:53.9. Studenski, a junior,

placed 17th in 17:58.8 and got the last qualifying spot. Senior Evan Carion was 19th in 18:28, senior Daniel Gibbens 20th in 18:29, and junior Liam MacChesney, 28th in 18:53.

Rogosheske, a freshman, qualified with a 12th-place finish in 21:43.9. Zephyr junior Julia Clayton was 17th in 22:08, sophomore Emily Alexander 18th in 22:25, junior Sylvie Lavigne 24th in 22:53, and freshman Norah Jansen 25th in 22:55.

Bruce Strand

The Mahtomedi Zephyrs advanced to the state Class 2A girls soccer semifinals with a 3-0 win over St. Francis in the first round in Edina. Scoring for the the Zephyrs were Faith Peper, Allie Rippentrop, and Kayla Poirier, assisted by Elise Aflakpi, Poirier and Peper, respectively. The Zephyrs held the Saints (13-3-2) to three shots on goal in posting thier 15th shutout. Harlow Berger was in goal.

The No. 2 seeded Zephyrs (16-2-1) faced No. 3 Mankato East (15-2-2) in the semifinals Tuesday while No. 1 Holy Angels (19-1) took on No. 5 Orono (12-42). The championship is set for Friday at 7:15 p.m. at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mahtomedi is seeking its 11th state title.

Bruce Strand

The White Bear Lake swimmers won their regularseason finale over Park 107-99 at the YMCA, finishing 2-7 in duals. Event winners were Audrey Borofka (50 free and 100 free), Eva Hoefer (200 free), Charlotte McIntyre (medley), Anna Miller (500 free), the 200 free relay with Borofka, Lily Jenkins, Madison Hanscom and McIntyre and the 400 free relay with Borofka, Jenkins, Brigid McVeigh and McIntyre. Next is the sectional Nov. 7-8-9 in Stillwater.

Amelia Nachtsheim

Bruce Strand

RON ENGH | CONTRIBUTED

The section champs, from left: Isla Bloomquist, Amelia Nachtsheim, Logan Bailey, Brynn Heinsohn, Anna Rogers, Clara Kolstad, and Erika Milhofer.

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED Logan Bailey led the Bears with a secondplace section finish.

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED Earning state berths were, from left, Matthew Johnson, Matthew Studenski and Vanessa Rogoscheske.

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Long-striding Vaughn Larson (393) bolted away from the starting line on the way to a second-place section finish. He will run in his fourth state meet.

Zephyrs end section play Bears done after first round of playoffs

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

It was a rough year for Mahtomedi football.

The Zephyrs finished 3-7 after last week’s sectionals when they beat St. Paul Central 2824 at home Tuesday and lost to Cretin-Derham Hall 40-7 in St. Paul on Saturday. This marked just the second losing season in the last four decades for Mahtomedi. One of the reasons was at least a half-dozen dingedup players watching in street clothes, five of them on crutches. Asked how many starters were out, coach Dave Muetzel said, “I don’t know, I’ve lost count. A lot.” In the win over Central, extra points and interceptions were the keys. Each team had four touchdowns, but the Zephyrs were 4-for-4 on conversions by their female kicker Harlow Berger, while Central was 0-for-4. The Zephyrs stopped a kick (blocked by Jacob Sokoll), two runs and a pass. Meanwhile, interceptions by Joey Pipes, Mark Graff, and Luke Torgrude slowed down Central’s air game that produced 203 yards and two TD’s.

Mahtomedi’s highlight was a 66yard score on a perfect deep pass from Connor Finn to a wide-open Pipes. The other TD’s were runs by Moseh Mouacheupao (one yard), Gavin Kruse (two yards) and Graff (nine yards). Kruse gained 95 yards in 21 carries. Central’s Allan Lankford passed to Rayon Grigsby and Charles Logan for TD’s, and Lankford and Lavonte Cox scored on runs.

Cretin-Derham Hall (5-4), which beat the Zephyrs 33-7 in conference, led 33-0 at halftime in the rematch. Trevor Rogosheske got Mahtomedi’s TD on a late one-yard run. The Zephyrs had 66 yards rushing and 64 passing. Finn was 3-for-18 for 39 yards. Mouacheupao gained 30 yards on nine rushes. Graff intercepted a pass and Zach Halvorson recovered a fumble.

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake’s football season ended with a 47-19 loss to No. 3 ranked Edina in the first round of state Class 6A playoffs. The Bears had a final 3-6 record.

Edina (7-2) rolled up 537 yards, including a 99-yard drive after Malik Doumbia of the Bears deftly downed a punt just outside the goal line, and later a 99-yard pass play from Mason West to Meyer Swinney.

The Bears got a seven-yard touchdown by Porter Cleary after trailing 27-0. They scored the last

Zephyrs in section volleyball finals

Mahtomedi has reached the Section 4AAA volleyball finals for the fourth straight season after defeating St. Paul Johnson 25-10, 25-4, 25-8 and Chisago Lakes 25-22, 25-9, 25-14. The top-seeded Zephyrs (24-4), aiming for their third straight trip to state, will host No. 6 seed Hill-Murray in the finals Wednesday at 6 p.m. Hill-Murray (5-21) upset St. Anthony Village 25-23, 26-24, 25-19 in the semifinals.

Bruce Strand

two TD’s in the final four minutes on Nate Tvedt’s one-yard run, and Wyatt Stachowiak’s six-yard pass to Andrew Kolenich. West completed 17 of 22 passes for 306 yards and five touchdowns with Swinney catching three of them. Chase Bjorgaard rushed for 135 yards on 11 carries. The Bears were limited to 58 yards on 27 runs, with Cleary netting 38 in 10 carries. Tomi Animasaun completed 21 of 37 passes for 258 yards. Teegan Bartok caught six for 123 yards, Rithy Sain two for 64, and Ben Lockwood four for 40.

POLITICAL BRIEF

Minnesota voters can vote on state constitutional amendment

On November 5, Minnesota voters will have the opportunity to vote on a new state constitutional amendment. The amendment will extend the transfer of proceeds from the state-operated lottery to the state’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund through December 31, 2050. It will also increase the amount of money spent each year from 5.5 to 7% of the fund’s market value; the remaining 1.5% will fund a grant program. Additionally, the amendment would repeal language that authorized loans of up to 5% of the fund principal for water system improvements and add language to prohibit fund use to repay the principal or interest of any bonds or costs related to the construction, repair, improvement or operation of any facility or system that processes wastewater. Funds for research related to wastewater will also be authorized.

BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED Harlow Berger booted an extra point with Mark Graff holding against Central.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Learn about new business neighbor at community meeting

Otter Lake Technologies invites residents to a community meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30 at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, Gem Lake. Otter Lake Technologies, a manufacturer of battery terminals and other metal components for industrial applications, acquired the assets of Water Gremlin earlier this year. The meeting is an opportunity for the company to introduce themselves to the community, answer questions, and talk about their current operations. For more information, go to otterlaketech.com.

First-ever concert series coming to White Bear Center for the Arts

Residents and regular White Bear Center for the Arts attendees will see a brand new attraction debut on Wednesday, Nov. 6. That day, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., local bassoon trio Artrio will play a free concert at the WBCA, which includes a 90-minute repertoire that features jazz, classical,

broadway, ballads, and golden oldies. The performance is planned to be the first in a new monthly concert series. The concert is open to the public. Calling all local artists: Members’ Exhibition

A members of the White Bear Center for the Arts are invited to submit work for the annual Members’ Exhibiton. As a nonjuried show, all submissions will be included in the exhibit, which will run from Nov. 25 through Jan. 17. All 2D and 3D media will be accepted. To view the guidelines and register to participate, go to whitebeararts. org.

Street sweeping to begin across Mahtomedi this week

Beginning this week, October 28, all streets around Mahtomedi will be swept. Weather permitting, the sweeping will take one to two weeks to complete. The city recommends that residents avoid parking on the street between 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Anyone with questions is encouraged to call the Public Works Department at 651-773-9730.

ELIMINATE

Annual Scarecrow Trail a fixture of family-friendly, Halloween fun

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Vadnais Heights residents in the mood for family-friendly Halloween delight can look no further than Community Park. That fun comes in the form of the city’s annual Scarecrow Trail, currently being featured from Oct. 24 through Nov. 1 in the park.

The trail has been an ongoing fall tradition in the city for four years. Attendance is free to residents and local businesses, as is contributing an entry. Both residents and businesses that wish to contribute a scarecrow entry must submit a form to the city that details the scarecrow’s intended design. All participants must set up their scarecrow designs on site; entries must also labeled with a name tag listing the name of the person/organization behind the entry. Residents can also vote for online for the entry they think is the best. According to Recreation and Facilities Manager Katie Everett, the trail was initially created during the COVID-19 pandemic after the city’s annual Halloween Party was canceled.

“It was a nice way to celebrate fall festivities while people could be out safely to do it on their own,” said Everett. “They liked doing it, so it stuck.”

This year’s trail will involve many entries from returning local businesses, including Gable Pines Senior Living, the Vadnais Heights Lions Club, Merrick Inc. and Boy Scout troops 9212 and 7212. New businesses this year include Oak Grove Knowledge Beginnings and Frandsen Bank and Trust.

“It’s all about what you have to use and your imagination,” said Vadnais Heights Lions Club member Eileen Schirer. The club has participated in designing scarecrows for the trail since the beginning; their current submission is called The Sisters, featuring both a jack-o’-lantern and Frankenstein mock-up. Both scarecrows are made from numerous household items and clothing to make up the final product.

“The dresses we got from a garage sale,” said Schirer, “and added the sweaters for their flesh. The hands are salad tongs, and the hats are from my children when they

a pumpkin head. “Seeing the different submissions is so much fun,” said Wolf. “To go on a walk and see all the creativity in the community is pretty awesome.”

After doing so for the first time last year, Gables Pines Senior Living will also participate in the trail.

were much younger!”

According to Schirer, both scarecrows are reused from the club’s 2023 submission. Last year’s design, described by Schirer as “more elaborate,” involved a wooden house containing three pigs, with both scarecrows dressed as farmers. Fellow club member Kathy Hellen is excited about the current trail’s setup. “This is the fun of being part of a community that’s larger than yourself,” noted Hellen. Merrick Inc., a nonprofit organization that works with adults with developmental disabilities, is another returning business. “The clients really enjoy being a part of the community this way,” said Elizabeth Wolf, “so we’re back

again this year!”

Wolf works as the company’s greenhouse coordinator and leads classes on horticulture and agriculture, among other topics. In designing this year’s scarecrow, Wolf enlisted fellow worker Alyssa Mercado, a direct support professional (DSP) trainer, and several adults with whom the two work one-on-one at the organization.

Like the Lions Club, Merrick Inc.’s design is a scaled-back setup from previous years. The organization’s 2022 submission featured a mock-up of Shaggy, Scooby-Doo and ScrappyDoo being chased by a scarecrow. This year, the design features a headless scarecrow with

“Last year was our learning year,” joked Memory Care Director Kassie Pyka, who is working with Life Enrichment Director Carey Shilts to bring the company’s submission to life. While the group’s previous submission merely featured a female scarecrow with a pumpkin head, Pyka said this year’s design was created to match a favorite senior activity more closely. “One of the most loved activities at Gable Pines is cribbage,” said Pyka, “so that is what we have here.”

One of the two scarecrows will also be wearing an Alzheimer’s Awareness T-shirt.

The organization has previously sold the T-shirts, and participated in this year’s Walk To End Alzheimer’s in Minneapolis. “I didn’t get a chance to walk the trail last year, so this year, I will definitely be doing that!” said Pyka.

The trail officially opened on October 24 and will run through November 1 at Community Park at 641 East County Road F. It will be open during regular park hours, 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset. Those interested in voting for their favorite scarecrow can do so online at www. cityvadnaisheights.com. Voting will close at 4 p.m. November 1; winners will be announced on November 4.

PHOTOS BY ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Cassie Pyka (left) and Carey Shilts (right) of Gable Pines Senior Living showcase their design for this year’s trail.

Elizabeth Wolf (left) and Alyssa Mercado (right) of Merrick Inc. pose with their creation for this year’s Vadnais Heights Scarecrow Trail.

Sailor writes novel based on experiences

The Press recently spoke with local author and sailor, Marlin Bree. Bree’s latest book “fangssS” will be his 26th and part of the Climate Change Chronicles.

Q: Tell me about yourself.

A: I’m a former editor with the Minneapolis Tribune and an amateur boat builder. I built a woodveneer and epoxy sailboat (that) took seven years. The sailboat was for many decades a familiar sight, merrily bounding about on White Bear Lake. I have just turned 91.

Q: What inspired you to write ‘fangssS’

A: It began with an incident on Lake Superior. As I sailed my 20-foot wooden sloop across the U.S./

Canada border, the sky began turning an ominous black. From out of nowhere, something grabbed my mast and shook my whole boat. A solid wall of wind slammed into us, and Persistence skittered out of control across the waves. The bow depressed into the water, dug in and I was thrown into the air.

Crawling back to the cockpit, I wrestled the helm to head the small craft downwind. We rode out the storm until the derecho’s front-line downbursts had passed and I turned up Persistence’s engine and began fighting back to a nearby island.

Later, I got a call from NOAA which was setting up the first Derecho website for the “new” storm, and I learned what a dangerous piece of weather I had been in. This derecho had downbursts estimated at 123 mph, and the NOAA scientist was amazed that my vessel had

survived the spooky, strange and ever-changing weather.

Q: How did you come up with the concept?

A: After surviving the rare, progressive derecho, I became especially alert to news of changing weather. Wild storms at sea taking down even big boats. Double-digit heat killing millions. Wildfires. Hurricanes. It was clear that climate change is turning into a climate crisis, with scientists warning: “We are waging a constant war on nature. But when will nature strike back?”

In “FangssS,” nature has passed the tipping point and is now taking charge to clean up the earth, dooming mankind. Deep underground in a cave not far from South Dakota’s famous dinosaur digs, a lone explorer discovers something strange and menacing: a remnant of a prehistoric killer that was once nature’s alpha assassin. Nature had kept these killers alive deep in the earth and was now grooming them for their new role to clean up the earth. They would be the foot soldiers, so to speak, to clean up the earth after the weather-especially the killing heat-wreaked its toll.

“FangssS” is available on Amazon.

Compiled by Madeline Dolby

Speaker Liz Nolby

Winner!”

history of Ciresi’s.

“White Bear Lake is such a nice little town,” said Patel. “The history of the business, when I looked into it, is that it’s been there for over 70 years. That’s what got me into buying it.”

When Patel moved locations, he received help from no fewer than 35 customers and members of the community, all of whom were eager to help him move. “We all got it moved in about six to seven hours,” noted Patel. “One of my clients had a forklift they put everything into, which they drove

to the lot. I don’t have the correct vocabulary to describe that feeling.”

One notable voice of support Patel has received came from Anna and Rich’s daughter Jennifer Bohaty, who has noted parallels in Patel’s journey to her grandparents’ original founding of Ciresi’s.

“Both my grandparents and Hardik had dreams of opening their own business,” said Bohaty. “Hardik is living it out like my parents and grandparents did. He knows that hard work, dedication, community and connection will make him successful in the end.”

Patel said that he hopes his store can help keep the spirit of Ciresi’s alive for new generations. “I want this to continue for the next 100 years,” said Patel. “I’d like to pass it down to my kids, too. The history of White Bear Lake should be passed on from one generation to the next.”

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