Vadnais Heights Press by Press Publications

We are the champions!

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

A little bitterness can be a good thing. That salty emotion helped the Mahtomedi girls soccer team reclaim the state championship this season.

The No. 3 ranked Zephyrs

vanquished No. 1 Holy Angels 2-0 in the finals at U.S. Bank Stadium, on goals by Cecilia Emery and Aynslea Ulschmid, three days after drubbing Mankato East 7-0 in the semifinals.

The Class 2A title was the 11th jewel in the crown for

Mahtomedi and first since a string of four straight wins ending in 2021. The Zephyrs figured that two years away from the limelight — an overtime finals loss to Holy Angels in 2022, and a section

SEE STATE CHAMPIONS, PAGE 18

Otter Lake Technologies affirms transparency

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

“We are committed to doing it the way it needs to be done, the right way.”

At its first-ever community meeting, Otter Lake Technologies President Nathan Prussing says he and his company are ready to commit to transparency and environmental friendliness among White Bear Lake residents. The meeting at Gem’s Lake Heritage Hall Wednesday is intended to be the first in a series of annual meetings the company will hold with residents.

The company acquired certain U.S. assets of Water Gremlin after the latter filed for bankruptcy last November. In doing so,

Water Gremlin retained its past liabilities and responsibility for all claims. At the same time, Otter Lake did not acquire any such liabilities, real estate or fisher sinker assets. “I care a lot about the environment and manufacturing, and there are ways we can do both of them very well,” added Prussing. “We will know if we are getting better.”

During the meeting, accompanied by his wife, Dena, Prussing laid out several critical components of the company that he said would make it more environmentally friendly. One is the company’s use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), large groups of chemicals found

Exhibition displays talent and hope of artists living with ALS

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Through Nov. 13, White Bear Lake Center for the Arts attendees can feast their eyes on a brand new exhibition featuring unique works of art with a special story behind each.

The exhibition, “Creative Pursuits: An ALS Association Pop-Up,” features 71 pieces from 20 artists from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, South Dakota, Virginia, Indiana, Illinois and Washington. The pieces, ranging from photographs to paintings to short fiction, are each created by artists with amyotrophic

lateral sclerosis (ALS). This nervous system disease weakens muscles and impacts physical function.

Through the Creative Pursuits Program, an ALS Association-based program dedicated to teaching those diagnosed with ALS various creative endeavors like painting, music and writing, these artists were able to bring their ideas to life for all to see.

“People are trying new media that they would have never explored before,” said Program Manager Liz Stanley. “They’re learning that there’s so many great ways they can continue expressing and challenging themselves in new ways.”

The program is the brainchild of White Bear Lake resident Ken Baltes, who formerly worked in computer technology before retiring in 2015. Post-retirement, Baltes began pursuing different artistic interests, creating acrylic paintings and carving lamps from diamond willow before being diagnosed with ALS in 2020. Baltes became a board member of the local and national ALS Associations, where he pitched the idea of creating a program to allow those living with ALS to pursue their creative side.

Mahtomedi’s state champion girls soccer team joyously rushed toward their fans after completion of the awards ceremony at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Zephyrs defeated Holy Angels 2-0 in the Class 2A finals.

BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED

ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Tom Albin showcases his painting, “A Good Day,” which depicts him playing ice hockey, one of his favorite pastimes.

Vadnais Heights Area Community Foundation announces fall grant recipients

BY AMY PETERSON SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

The Vadnais Heights Area Community Foundation (VHACF) awarded nearly $4,000 in grants during its fall grantmaking cycle this year. Combined with the grants and scholarships awarded this winter, VHACF has provided more than $14,000 in funds for nonprofit organizations serving the Vadnais Heights area this year.

Grants awarded this cycle will be used to strengthen the community and improve the quality of life for area residents in a wide variety of ways, including:

• Making outings on area lakes accessible to seniors, veterans, members of the military and individuals with disabilities with Bear Boating.

• Expanding Children’s Performing Arts programming into Vadnais

Heights Elementary School, which helps to bring quality theater and learning experiences to all interested youth.

Providing scholarship assistance for students with the White Bear Lake Area Schools’ Week Without Walls program, creating unforgettable learning experiences for middle school students to travel to Costa Rica.

• Supporting Tubman’s Movement for Violence Prevention program, an innovative initiative aimed at helping prevent relationship violence and build safer, healthier communities.

• Providing opportunities for networking, advocacy, support and education around the issues of agefriendly transportation and housing for seniors with the Consortium of Lake Area Senior Service (CLASS).

Vadnais Heights Area Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundation, is a 501(c)

(3) organization that has been providing grants to area organizations working in education, arts and culture and human services since 1979.

In addition to regular grants and scholarships, VHACF, in partnership with Fund for Teachers, provided a grant this year to two local teachers to travel to Alaska. Their fully funded trip provided exceptional opportunities for learning and research that the teachers can bring back to their classrooms and share with students.

VHACF funding is made possible through investment earnings on donations made by community members. More information about VHACF, including how to donate and how to get involved in VHACF by becoming a board member, can be found at www.vhacf.org.

Frank Watson

CONTRIBUTED

Amy Peterson chairs the Vadnais Heights Area Community Foundation.

If you’ve taken a trip recently around Vadnais and Sucker Lake, odds are you noticed something ... different regarding the area. A closer inspection may have shown that the water level in Sucker Creek, the channel that connects both lakes, was lower than expected. While this may have caused some confusion among residents, St. Paul Regional Water Services Marketing/PR Manager Jodi Wallin says there is no cause for alarm. The company deliberately lowers the water levels via the lake’s reservoir system to remove zebra mussels that have plagued the area for several years.

Q: How long has this most recent mussel removal been planned at the channel?

A: We have been on a two-year cycle of zebra mussel cleaning at the channel. The decision to do the cleaning was made in May of this year, while the cleaning itself began on October 9. The timing was dependent upon hauling and Hydrovac contractors and water demand from customers. Typically, in late October, our water demands are lower.

Q: Because the channel is located in Ramsey County, do they have any involvement in how it gets cleaned?

A: Typically, they do not. However, this year, we did work with Ramsey County Parks as well as the City of Shoreview on the timing of the cleaning. Ramsey County was working on lead fishing

tackle removal from the channel, and Shoreview was working on some of its infrastructure that is downstream from the Sucker channel.

Q: How long have zebra mussels been a problem in this area?

A: According to the DNR, zebra mussels were first found in Vadnais Lake in 2007, but it was not a problem for us until they began to impact the flow of water into the channel from Sucker Lake to

Vadnais Lake. 2014 was when we first lowered the levels to clean the channel. We would do it again in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2022.

Q: How long did the procedure take, and how was fishing impacted?

A: The removal took three days and has been completed since Oct. 25. We initially stopped running water on Oct. 9 and resumed it on the 25th. The fishing in the channel was already impacted before the cleanout started because of the amount of zebra mussels clogging it. Fishing was able to resume in the creek beginning on the 25th.

Q: Because the levels will remain low during this time, will residents be redirected to fish elsewhere?

A: We will not be redirecting any fishing, as the channel levels should be back to normal already. However, the lake levels will be low for another two to three weeks as it slowly recovers from being drained. The lack of rainfall will also contribute to the lake levels taking time to recover. Fishing will be difficult anywhere in the chain during this time, but fishing opportunities will still be available on Vadnais Lake.

Compiled by Erik Suchy

OPINION

Getting along

Regardless of which candidate ends up winning the national presidential election, we’re still going to need to get along with family members, friends, colleagues, acquaintances and all of the other people we interact with locally on a daily basis. The upcoming holiday season, including Thanksgiving, only adds to the potential anxiety and stress of living in a society that is increasingly polarized.

Political differences in families are nothing new, but the levels of toxic rhetoric and volatility have been significantly cranked up due in no small part to the fragmentation of information on various social media platforms and the growing distrust of scientific and medical experts. It’s extremely challenging engaging in a meaningful conversation when the definition of the truth is in question. Personally, more than 25 years ago, I needed to formulate some coping strategies so that a relationship with a key family member could be maintained following an angry outburst — directed at me — during a discussion featuring a well known politician I’d had interactions with. I was caught by surprise and profoundly bummed out by the incident. A sincere apology followed the next day, which I gratefully accepted, but I vowed to do whatever I could to avoid a similar situation from ever occurring again.

After giving it some thought, I came up with the relatively simple strategy of identifying and avoiding the key catalysts (the mix of alcohol consumption and political talk) that led to the dustup. Quietly, without any announcement or fanfare, I began to cut back my drinking at family gatherings to (at most) one or two beers while also strategically avoiding potentially volatile political topics. To my knowledge, no one seemed to notice any change in my behavior and thankfully many years have elapsed without a similar incident. However, there have been a handful of occasions over the years where, in order to tactfully avoid the possibility of a heated escalation, I needed to firmly assert that I did not want to discuss certain topics. I was also relieved we were still able to have meaningful and varied conversations about a variety of other topics.

While I was looking for information related to the subject of maintaining communication and healthy relationships in a politically divisive society, the contributions of William Doherty, professor emeritus in the Department of Family Social Science at the University of Minnesota, showed up in a number of articles at various news and information outlets including Time, NPR and Braver Angels (braverangels. org), an organization he cofounded as an effort to help bridge the political divides splitting the country. I’ve always thought of Thanksgiving as one of the most unifying and least stressful of American holiday celebrations, but Doherty and other family counselors are concerned that this year may be even more tricky than the post-election Thanksgivings of the past and are advising some advanced planning and the adjustment of expectations. Because it takes only one person to derail or escalate an already emotional and complicated discussion, Doherty advises against talking about political topics around the dinner table and suggests a host can ask ahead of time that politics are off-limits. He also suggests that you should probably give up on the idea that you might be able to change a family members mind because you enlightened them with a persuasive, thought provoking argument. There are tips and resources available about how to talk to family members about politics, it’s just that the dynamics of a group holiday meal are not ideal. It’s not an easy situation, but we do still have choices. The question that it all comes down to for me is, do we really want to let political leaders and toxic, cynical politics hurt our families?

Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238 or photos@presspubs.com.

Leave (some) Leaves

Let’s follow nature’s lead and settle somewhere in the middle on “Leaving the Leaves”. We can have well-kept lawns while also building soil and providing habitat for native insects.

Movers & Shakers

I’m a homeowner that rakes most leaves off my lawn then uses a mower to mulch the rest into place. I see leaves as an amazing resource for the ecosystem in our backyards. I even gather leaves from neighbors to use in my garden as leaf mold. Leaves provide habitat for native insects, spiders, toads and even turtles.

Fall is the Best Time to Build Soil

There is a principle in nature called the “Law of Return” which states that nutrients taken from the soil should be returned to the soil to keep it in balance.

This means every time we harvest a tomato or head of broccoli, we’re technically messing with nature. This is the basis for the push to

• Limited to 350 words.

“Leave the Leaves” as well. The premise being that the leaves should be left to decompose where they grew to keep the soil life at its healthiest. Luckily, nature is resilient enough to deal with backyard garden harvests, but there is a limit. And for the last century, we’ve been pushing that limit. Think of the large swaths of land conventionally farmed, literally tilled to dust. Many scientists estimate one third of the planet’s topsoil has been lost to erosion in the last 150 years. Another statistic shows that we have about 100 years of soil left if we continue conventional farming practices.

But nature already has the answer to building more soil. We just need to stay out of the way of nature and let the existing soil life get to work decomposing organic matter and building relationships underground.

Healthy soil can hold carbon and reduce our emissions, conserve water and improve water filtration, and even grow healthier, more disease resistant crops.

The average teaspoon of soil has around 1 billion microorganisms in it. They each have their own job to do in decomposing organic matter

to form new soil, and helping new organic matter grow well. It is an ingenious, never-ending cycle – if we don’t remove large parts of the input to the system. I’m not suggesting we let forests take over our yards but remembering that we are all part of nature would go a long way to helping restore our planet’s soil. When we remove the leaves and kill the bugs on our lawn, it might not seem like a big deal. But American lawns cover around 40 million acres. If homeowners started treating our lawns as part of nature – part of the world wide ecosystem – think of the longlasting effects we could have! In fact, there’s a group called Homegrown National Park working to do just that: www. homegrownnationalpark.org. Learn more about our area’s leaf and yard waste drop off options at: www.ramseycounty. us

*Reminder* MN State law prohibits putting yard waste into your regular garbage collection bins.

Michelle Bruhn is founder of ForksintheDirt.com. She’s a local food advocate, educator, and coauthor of the book, SmallScale Homesteading.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

• 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 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 651429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

Michelle Bruhn

Angle of View

Paul Dols

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

What happened to public service?

On Oct. 15 the Vadnais Heights City Council voted to give themselves a 25% pay raise. They say it was needed because they were paid lower than some of our surrounding communities. Since 2005 council members’ pay has been $6,000 per year, and the mayor’s pay was $7,500 per year. They gave themselves an increase of $1,500, so now council members will get $7,500/year and the mayor $9,000/year. Is this a lot of money? To some people it might be, but it depends on how much time you put into it. The council meets two times per month from 5 p.m. to, let’s say, 8:30 p.m. for a typical council meeting. Let’s say they spend the same amount of time preparing for the meeting of 3.5 hours, making a commitment of seven hours twice a month for 12 months, which is 168 hours a year or $45 per hour for their salary. Not bad to be paid an hourly rate equal to a salary of $93,000 per year, and no previous experience is needed. What happened to the idea of being

a public servant? In the past, patriotic citizens ran for office to serve the public and then returned to their private lives without the thought that they would make elected office a career or that they deserve to be paid highly for their service.

At the Constitutional Convention, Ben Franklin stated his belief that public servants should not be paid a salary, for in paying the civil service, our government would not be made of “the wise and the moderate ... the men fittest for the trust” but instead by “the bold and the violent, the men of strong passions ... in their selfish pursuits.”

Council members said that by paying themselves a higher salary it would attract a greater diversity to these leadership positions. It would also make it possible to hold the office without sacrifice to their income. I would prefer people hold office who are there to improve the community and not worry about how much they earn.

Craig Johnson Vadnais Heights

Add judges to guide

The Voter Guide arrived! I was glad. It always has given me insight into each candidate running for their chosen race. After reading through this information, I was left with a question. Why is information regarding the judges running for their office not included? Judges play an important part in our community. Having this information helps in being a more informed voter—even if running unchallenged. Thoughts?

Diane Bengston White Bear Lake

Need

better coverage

A common taunt from hockey fans upset with the officiating is “Hey ref, you’re missing a good game.”

I have the same feeling lately from the White Bear Press regarding local government reporting. You (and more importantly, your readers) are missing a good game. On Sept. 10, the White Bear Lake City Council held a very contentious debate over next year’s budget and tax levy. Nothing about it in the White Bear Press.

White Bear Lake Area High School culture check:

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

When White Bear’s unified high school opened its doors this fall, Principal Russ Reetz proclaimed that the year would be divided into three 60-day segments. Each segment has a question to which, by the end of the 60 days, students will hopefully answer “Yes.” The first question is, “Do I belong here?” Nov. 6 marks the first day of the second quarter for the high school, so how are Reetz and his staff progressing in this goal?

R.O.A.R.

R.O.A.R. stands for Relationships, Ownership, Awareness and Respect. Students know this acronym, and it’s everywhere they look: The student-run merchandise center is called “The ROAR Store,” while flex periods are now called “ROAR Time.”

Reetz explains this is done so that all students and staff have common language and a universal place from which to start. Additionally, Tuesday mornings have a half-hour advisory period. While he envisioned students making up tests or getting help from a teacher, Reetz reports that the “street-level data” shows students largely using the time to “get organized for the coming week.”

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Winter parking rules in effect

‘Do I belong here?’

Dimensions of teaching and learning

Reetz and his administration gain street-level data in two ways.

The first is with “ROAR Walks,” teacher observations that look not to criticize, but rather to check for indicators of belonging. Reetz derived this method from the University of Washington’s Center for Educational Leadership. Their five categories for an effective school include purpose, student engagement, curriculum/ teaching style, student assessment and classroom environment.

Filtered through a lens of student belonging, a successful ROAR Walk might show that a teacher is checking students’ understanding of the learning targets or that students use the learning routines provided to support their classmates.

The second method is using collaborative inquiry teams (CIT), staff groups that meet every two weeks. These teams share experiences and current strategies in their classrooms.

The CIT recalibrates, then sets goals for the next two weeks. Common strategies listed from CIT data collected include:

• Greet students with their name when they enter the classroom;

• Practice breathing techniques … for mindfulness at the beginning of a lesson; and

• Connect with three to five students each day … and make sure they are feeling comfortable in the class.

As of Nov. 1, winter parking rules have officially gone into effect around the city of Vadnais Heights. These rules will be in place until April 1. During this time, no parking is allowed on any street between 1 and 6 a.m. Additionally, no parking will be allowed after 2 inches or more of snow has accumulated until the street is plowed curb to curb. Violators will be ticketed and/or towed.

Vadnais Heights City Hall changes hours of operation

At a recent meeting, the Vadnais Heights City Council approved a permanent change to the hours

Activities and attendance

Each day, students view video announcements, called “The Daily ROAR.” Describes Reetz, “Students hear about what’s going on in our building, what’s possible, what’s coming up.” The goal, he said, is to get “85% of our students finding a co-curricular they’re passionate about.”

Reetz has also implemented a policy in which an administrative staff member checks in with a student when they have had an unexplained absence for one or more periods the previous day. So far, staff has logged over 170 conversations. “(We) talk about their plan both that day and future days,” Reetz said. “I expect to see that number continue to go up.”

The results have largely been positive. Suspensions have been halved, fights are down and Reetz anticipates incoming comparative data showing attendance rates have gone up compared to last fall.

“We’re proactive in our expectations of our students and reactive when we don’t always meet the standard,” said Reetz. “I feel like a lot of this data is a direct reflection of how hard we’ve been working on how our classrooms are welcoming and belonging.”

Beginning in December, Reetz and his staff will shift to the next 60-day instructional segment: “Is this meaningful?”

City Hall is open. The new, year-round operating hours of Vadnais Heights City Hall will be from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 7 to 11 a.m. Friday. The new hours take effect this week.

VFW hosts Veterans Day celebration

The White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782 will host a Veterans Day ceremony at 10:45 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 11, in Veterans Memorial Park. After the ceremony, there will be a lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All veterans and one guest each are invited to join a complimentary meal from a select menu. Veterans Memorial Park is located next to the VFW, 4496 Lake Avenue S.

On Oct. 22, we had another important discussion about how the city will react to the new recreational marijuana law. Nothing in the Press. And there is a brewing dispute between White Bear Township and White Bear Lake over paying the interest on our new public safety facility. This was fully aired at a recent Township Board meeting. Nothing in the Press.

A reporter from the Press attended each of these meetings and wrote about other smaller issues that were on the agenda, but ignored the bigger and more important debates. Covering local news that affects the lives of readers should be at the top of the priority list for a local paper. As an elected official, I rely on feedback from citizens as we work through contentious issues like the budget and marijuana. But the citizens need to be informed! Looking forward to better coverage in the future.

Letters to the Editor

We encourage readers’ letters and comments. Letters to the editor should be no more than 350 words. All submissions must include the author’s legal name. E-mail letters to WhiteBearNews.com

MIKE MISGEN

Unlike most insurance agencies who only offer coverage from one company, “We can shop” from many for the best coverage and price suitable for your situation

Jovie Ponthan

Birch Lake Elementary School

Bill Walsh White Bear Lake City Council Ward 1

COPS&COURTS

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Dellwood

• Apple Orchard Road residents on Oct. 7 reported a neighbor for verbally harassing them multiple times about political signs in their yard, and now several signs have gone missing. The complainant did want to make a formal theft report, but asked Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies to speak with the neighbor. They did, and the neighbor denied taking the signs, though she knew at least one was missing. She did admit to giving her neighbors the thumbs down gesture once, but that was it.

Grant

• Deputies responded to the report of a turkey on the side of the road in the 6000 block of Manning Avenue N. Sept. 29. When deputies approached the turkey, it got up, gobbled, and ran across to the other side of the road.

• A pole barn in the 10000 block of 66th Street N. was reported burglarized Sept. 29.

Deputies received two alligator sightings during the afternoon of Sept. 29, one from the 8000 block of Dellwood Road N., and the other from the 9000 block of Dellwood Road N. The alligator was not located and remained on the lam.

• A person of interest was arrested for first degree burglary of an occupied dwelling in the 11000 block of Grenelefe Avenue N. at 12:47 a.m. Oct. 3.

• The driver of a suspicious running vehicle parked halfway in the road on Goodview Avenue N. at 117th Street N. at 5:50 p.m. Oct. 10 was arrested on warrant and also for DWI, after appearing intoxicated and failing roadside field tests.

• A suspicious vehicle reported at 9:06 p.m. Oct. 10 along Julianne Avenue N. and 115th Street N. turned out to belong to northern lights gawkers.

Mahtomedi

• After observing an individual pulling vines off power lines Sept. 29 on Wildwood Road, deputies stopped and advised the person to stop immediately.

• FedEx security on Long Lake Road reported discovering drugs at the facility Sept. 30 and turned them over to deputies to be entered into evidence for destruction.

A property dispute reported Oct. 1 in the 1000 block of Warner Avenue N. resulted in deputies advising both parties to each hire their own surveyors and be prepared to go to court over the issue.

• Deputies conducting a traffic stop Oct. 1

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

on Stillwater Road at McGregor Avenue N. cited the motorist for undisclosed offenses. A motorist speeding along Mahtomedi Avenue at Neptune Street on Oct. 2 was mailed a citation for that violation, due to tech issues on deputies’ onboard printer. A third motorist was cited for speeding at 1:52 p.m. Oct. 4 in the 1300 block of Mahtomedi Avenue by deputies who had been on speed patrol for only five minutes. Deputies said no other violations were observed, but then at 3:29 p.m. that day, a fourth motorist was cited on Mahtomedi Avenue at Neptune Street.

A fifth driver was cited at 10:13 p.m. Oct. 5 on Stillwater Road for failing to stop at the stop sign. The Minnesota motorist said he didn’t see the stop sign.

• Park Avenue residents on Oct. 2 reported a male wearing a construction hat and vest, while carrying a red toolbox for wandering around their property. At 9:38 p.m., deputies responded to the 1000 block of Park Avenue regarding noisy construction equipment being worked on. The crew told deputies they were getting equipment set up to repave the Mahtomedi Beach parking lot the following day and would be done shortly.

A short time later, deputies received another disturbance complaint about the workers still being there and returned to the scene and found workers still on site. One of the workers said they were cleaning up and leaving.

• Back at Mahtomedi Beach, suspicious buoys and string reported floating out from the swim area Oct. 4, turned out to be workers pulling out the buoys in preparation for winter at the beach.

• Deputies conducted a welfare check at 6:03 p.m. Oct. 7 on a male living in a pickup truck parked at the former Lakeside Club site and offered assistance. A suspicious person reported at 11:20 a.m. Oct. 9 in Katherine Abbott Park on Lincolntown Avenue turned out to be a woman camping there.

Pine Springs

• A report of shots fired at 2:03 a.m. Sept. 29 on northbound I-694 to the westbound ramp to Highway 36 were confirmed, after the suspect vehicle was verified for leaving the area. Northbound lanes of I-694 around Highway 36 were shut down, and several agencies assisted in the investigation.

• A southbound motorist on I-694, just south of Highway 36 was cited for driving after revocation Sept. 30. That same day, a motorist was cited for expired registration on Hilton Trail N. and 62nd Street, following a traffic stop for the tardy tabs.

Loretta Harding

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• A St. Paul man, 54, was arrested at 12:30 p.m. Oct. 4 in the 1000 block of County Road D, after he violated the terms of an active Order For Protection by contacting the woman who took out the order against him.

• A St. Paul man, 54, reported his ex-wife in the 1000 block of County Road D at 4:18 p.m. Oct. 4 for refusing to return his tools. Deputies advised the complainant about the civil nature of his issue.

• Deputies responded to a theft report from the Speedway station in the 1000 block of County Road E Oct. 4 and collected evidence.

• A resident in the 400 block of Oak Creek Circle on Oct. 4 reported fraudulent activity on his bank account.

A Gem Lake man reported that someone broke into his rented storage unit in the 3200 block of Highway 61 on Oct. 4 and stole his property.

• A Stanchfield man on Oct. 9 reported several tools stolen from a construction site in the 300 block of Sunflower Court at which he was working.

• A license plate was reported stolen off a vehicle parked in the 3700 block of Centerville Road on Oct. 8.

• Deputies on Oct. 8 investigated known suspects for forging documents to register to an address in the 3600 block of Edgerton Street at which they no longer live.

• A Hugo man, 38, was arrested Oct. 9 in the 800 block of County Road D for violating an Order For Protection by contacting a woman who had taken out the OFP against him.

• A resident in the 800 block of County Road D on Oct. 10 reported fraudulent activity on her bank account.

• A suspicious person reported on a roof in the 800 block of Berwood Avenue at 12:46 p.m. Oct. 10 turned out to be a juvenile who appeared to be

hiding out on the neighbor’s roof until her father left for the day

• A Minneapolis man, 38, was reported for punching a woman in the head in the 1000 block of County Road D at 12:12 a.m. Oct. 11 and fleeing the scene before deputies arrived.

• A wedding ring was reported lost from the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive last March on Oct. 11

• A St. Paul man, 20, was arrested on an outstanding warrant at 2:37 a.m. Oct. 13 in the 70 block of County Road E.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 24, was arrested Oct 13 for assault in the 3500 block of Vadnais Center Drive, after he pushed the mother of his child during a custody exchange and a Keep Our Kops Safe (KOPS) alert was issued for him.

• Residents in the 3200 block of Maray Avenue at 10:27 p.m. Oct. 13 reported a group of teens knocking on windows.

White Bear Township

• A resident in the 4400 block of Otter Lake Road on Oct. 10 reported a vehicle for damaging his mailbox and driving away without stopping.

• A White Bear Lake man, 45, was reported Oct. 12 for sending threatening messages to a woman in the 4000 block of White Bear Parkway. Deputies documented the threats and collected thousands of rounds of ammunition, three guns and tactical vests that the complainant no longer wanted in her house.

• A resident in the 5300 block of West Bald Eagle Blvd. reported his political campaign sign stolen Oct. 13. A resident in the 5400 block of West Bald Eagle Blvd. reported her political campaign sign stolen. A resident in the 5800 block of Hobe Lane reported his political campaign sign stolen from his front yard on Oct. 19. Loretta Harding

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

• Theft was reported in the 4900 block of Wood Avenue Oct. 13.

• Officers responded to a disorderly conduct situation un the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue Oct. 14.

• Officers assisted deputies with a motorcycle vs. vehicle accident on Wildwood Road in Mahtomedi Oct. 14. Officers assisted Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies in detaining a domestic assault suspect near the intersection of Highway 96 and Highway 61 Oct. 14.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 4800 block of White Bear Parkway Oct. 14.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Oct. 15.

• Officers responding to a report of a missing person in the 1900 block of Sixth Street Oct. 15 located the person within minutes.

• A St. Paul man was arrested for obstruction with force and domestic assault Oct. 15 in the 2000 block of County Road E.

• A Dellwood woman was arrested for DWI in the 2000 block of Garden Lane Oct. 15 following complaints of an erratic driver.

• Officers resonded to a complaint of a barking dog in the 1900 block of Clarence Street Oct. 16.

• An order for protection violation was reported in the 2100 block of Orchard Lane Oct. 16.

• Officers mediated a disorderly conduct situation near the intersection of Lake Avenue S and White Bear Avenue Oct. 16.

• Officers respoded to a domestic incident in progress in the 2500 block of Manitou Island Oct. 16. Disorderly conduct was reported Oct. 16 in the 2600 block of Bellaire Avenue.

• Officers responded to dispute in the 2200 block of Eighth Street Oct. 17.

• A homeless encampment was reported Oct. 17 near Interstate 694 and White Bear Avenue.

• A Mahtomedi man was arrested for DWI in the 1500 block of Birch Lake Blvd. N Oct. 17.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2200 block of Randy Avenue Oct. 18.

• A Gem Lake business reported check forgery resulting in a $900 loss Oct. 18.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 2600 block of County Road E Oct. 18.

• A St. Paul resident was arrested for DWI Oct. 19 near the intersection of Highway 61 and Willow Lake Blvd.

• Officers responded to a disorderly male in the 4600 block of Bald Eagle Avenue Oct. 19.

• Officers responded to a report of a disorderly man vandalizing a business in the 4000 block of Highway 61 Oct. 19. Officers located him after he fled the scene, and then arrested him for 2 outstanding felony warrants, felony 3rd degree burglary, and financial transaction fraud.

• Officers responded to a fight between members of a household in the 2400 block of Elm Drive Oct. 19. Narcotics were reported in the 4500 block of Centerville Road Oct. 19.

• A St. Paul man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop at County Road E and Jerry Street.

• Officers responded to a criminal damage to property incident in the 3700 block of Hoffman Road Oct. 21. A rock was thrown through the window of a business in the 4700 block of White Bear Parkway Oct. 21.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1700 block of Fourth Street Oct. 21.

• Officers assisted an individual with a dispute involving a purchase that was made in the 4700 block of Otter Lake Road Oct. 21.

NOVEMBER 6, 2024

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

WHAT’S HAPPENING

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8

Where: St. John in the Wilderness Church, 2175 1st Street.

Details: Sponsored by the Rotary Club of White Bear Lake; schedule appointment online. Contact: 800 RED CROSS or redcrossblood.org

DERBY NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

When: 6-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9

Where: North Star Scouting Museum, 2640 E. Seventh Ave., North St. Paul

Details: Grown-up version of the Pinewood Derby race, with food and refreshments, silent auction, and prizes. Fundraiser for museum programs. 21+; register online. Contact: nssm.regfox.com/2024-derbynight-at-the-museum

VETERANS DAY PROGRAM

When: 10:45 a.m., Monday, Nov. 11

Where: Veterans Memorial Park, 4500 Lake Ave. S, White Bear Lake Details: Join us in honoring the men and women who served our country. Hosted by VFW Post 1782 and Auxiliary. Contact: infovfwpost1782@gmail.com

VFW 1782 AND AUXILIARY VETERANS APPRECIATION EVENT

When: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Monday, Nov. 11

Where: VFW Post 1782, 4496 Lake Ave S, White Bear Lake Details: All veterans and one guest are invited to enjoy a free lunch from a special menu. Veteran resource material will also be available. Contact: infovfwpost1782@gmail.com

10TH ANNUAL SOS LUNCH FOR VETERANS

When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11

Where: American Legion Post 39, 2678 E. 7th Avenue, North St. Paul

VETERANS DAY ICE CREAM SOCIAL

When: 1:30-3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8

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

Details: Veterans and families invited to enjoy ice cream and socializing. Call to register. Contact: 651-653-3121

Details: An SOS lunch of chipped beef on toast, which was served in military mess halls, will be available free for veterans. Family members may order off regular menu. Conact: 651-777-3708

MAHTOMEDI VETERANS DAY CEREMONY

When: 5-8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11 Where: Veteran’s Memorial Park, Mahtomedi Details: Join the American Legion

Kramer-Berg Post 507 and other veterans and family members for a celebration honoring service men and women. Contact: 651-426-6598

WBLAHS WRESTLING PASTA DINNER FUNDRAISER

When: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11 Where: White Bear Lake Area High School Cafeteria Details: Enjoy a pasta meal catered

by Donatellis and support the high school wrestling program.

CAR SEAT CLINIC

When: 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12

Where: Mahtomedi Fire Hall, 800 Stillwater Road

Details: Certified car seat technicians are on hand to properly install children’s car seats. Free; appointment required by e-mail. Contact: cpsdiana@hotmail.com

TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE ARMORY

When: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12

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

Details: Local-themed trivia, drink specials, and prizes for top teams. Teams of up to 6. Free. Contact: whitebearhistory.org/events/ trivia-night-at-the-armory

CARD CRAFTING CLASS

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14

Where: White Bear Lake Community Health Club, 1430 Highway 96 E. Details: Make handcrafted crds. Registration required online. Contact: https://form.jotform. com/241824710545151

OF, BY AND FOR THE PEOPLE, RESTORING GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY

When: 6:15 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14

Where: Maplewood Library board room, or Zoom

Details: Don Arnosti, longtime environmental consultant and leader, will report on a new coalition of over 16 communities and other groups from different parts of Minnesota called “People Not Polluters.” Event hosted by the League of Women Voters- White Bear Area. Register online.

Contact: lwv-wbla.org

UNSPLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

ART EXHIBIT: Those living with ALS showcase their ‘Creative Pursuits’

“He had taken classes at the White Bear Center for the Arts and got a lot of joy out of that creativity,” said Baltes’ widow, Dorothy Elion. “He tried to think of what would help ALS patients if they could be involved in some kind of program that would give them the resources to be creative.”

Before he could see his dream come to fruition, Baltes passed away from the disease in 2022. However, determined to follow his plan, the association successfully created the program and officially launched it last September. Through the program, those living with ALS nationwide typically take classes held on Zoom while also doing in-person tours of various art museums. These museums include local attractions such as the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art, as well as the Chazen Museum of Art in Madison, Wisconsin, and the St. Louis Art Museum in St. Louis, Missouri.

CONTRIBUTED

The Creative Pursuit Program, taught through the ALS Association, was brought to fruition by White

resident Ken

who died from the disease in 2022.

One participating artist is Hampton resident Mark Mueller, who was diagnosed with ALS the previous year and began participating in the Creative Pursuits program shortly after. Mark began developing a fondness for writing poetry and memoirs through the classes. “He’s probably been an artist all his life in some way, shape or form,” said Mark’s wife, Anita. “He really didn’t get into the creative side until he was diagnosed with ALS.”

Two of Mark’s pieces are currently included in the exhibition: a short poem called “Casting and Beyond” and a drawing called “Closer To Home, No Holds Barred.” The latter, which depicts a piece of rope next to a mountain range, is based on a six-word story that Mark had written as part of a series. Mark primarily cited “meditation” as the inspiration for his pieces.

Another featured artist is Shoreview resident Lisa Lind, a former professional French hornist

and part-time pianist until her ALS diagnosis the previous year. In addition to being a musician, Lind also worked as a technical writer, though she still cites the former as her primary artistic passion. “I’m pretty much always listening to it,” said Lind. “Both of my kids are musicians, and they’ve turned me onto a lot of current music. It’s constantly going into my ears.”

Through classes in the Creative Pursuits program, Lind began developing her own musical compositions using a special app for iPads and smartphones. “It’s kind of like GarageBand,” said Lind. “You can select different options, put them together and then they’re recorded. I have about three or four compositions that are being featured.”

Lind also pursued writing more often through the classes, using a speech-recognition software called Dragon NaturallySpeaking. “I was so surprised at the stories that came out of my brain that I never knew anything about,” said Lind. “Much of my life was dedicated to journalistic or how-to technical writing; it was never like ‘I’m going to write a story.’ This is new to me and opened up a new part of my creativity.” In addition to her compositions, Lind has two short stories featured in the exhibition, “Wanda” and “Miles”.

Minneapolis resident Tom Albin, who was diagnosed with ALS two years ago, prefers not to classify his talents with any one kind of artistic medium. “I’m more of a consumer of art,” Albin joked. “I’ve done some paintings in color and gray and attended a few comedy classes. I’m just a guy!” Despite his sentiment, Albin concentrated heavily on painting and creating music during his classes at the Creative Pursuits Program. He collaborated with Lind on one such musical composition that is featured at the exhibition. “She’s a real musical person,” Albin said of Lind. “I’m more of a listener than a doer.”

One of Albin’s paintings, titled “A Good Day,” is also featured at the exhibition. It depicts him playing ice hockey, an activity Albin considers one of his favorite pastimes. “I’m all about creativity,” said Albin. “Every day, when I look at the world, I try to look at it creatively. Even when I’m lying down to nap, I’ll just picture stuff and try to paint some of it.”

To learn more about the Creative Pursuits program, visit the ALS Association website at www.als.org/support/programs/creative-pursuits-

program. Those interested in learning more about Baltes and his work can visit his

kenbaltes.com.

Then and now: Aspiring flower girl has her dream come true

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

After 80 years in the making, a Vadnais Heights resident has finally achieved her childhood dream.

Marianne Baumgarten fulfilled that dream when she became a flower girl for her newly-acquainted friend Elizabeth Judd’s wedding. The wedding, which took place at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Minneapolis, represented a fulfillment of Baumgarten’s dream and a sense of closure after losing the opportunity to be one during her youth.

Baumgarten, who grew up in Mount Forest Township, Michigan, said she was fond of dressing up for different celebrations as a child. When she was 8, a new opportunity presented itself: Baumgarten was to become a flower girl at her dad’s cousin Anne’s wedding. “I was so looking forward to that!” Baumgarten reminisced with enthusiasm. “As the date drew closer, I became more and more excited.”

Then, just before the wedding, tragedy struck: Baumgarten became sick with measles, forcing her to bow out. “As a little girl, I was brokenhearted,” said Baumgarten. “It was going to be the highlight of my childhood. Anne was like a sister to my dad, and she meant a lot to me.”

As Baumgarten grew up and

began focusing on pursuing a career in nursing, her flower girl desires dwindled completely. “Life goes on,” Baumgarten admitted. “I still thought about it often, but it wasn’t something I became torn up about.” Baumgarten moved to St. Paul to pursue a nursing degree at Charles T. Miller Hospital (which later merged with Saint Luke’s to form United Hospital in 1972), and graduated in 1959. After graduating, Baumgarten moved back to Michigan, working on the medical surgical floor in a city hospital before eventually moving back to Minnesota permanently. Baumgarten would go through different nursing jobs, including working at the Red Cross

and Bethesda Hospital in St. Paul, eventually marrying her husband Bill. Still, Baumgarten admits that nowhere did the desire to reachieve her flower girl dreams come to her. “You don’t think about being a flower girl once you’re married and have kids of your own,” Baumgarten admitted. Come 2020, that would all change. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Baumgarten lived alone in Vadnais Heights and frequently used Instacart to deliver groceries to her house. Although Baumgarten had been a frequent shopper at Trader Joe’s, the latter was unavailable through Instacart, requiring her to use the NextDoor app to find

someone to make the trip for her. Soon, Baumgarten received a reply from Shoreview resident Elizabeth Judd to assist. As time went on, the two began to become friends.

“Eventually, we got to know each other more,” said Judd.

“After my daughter, Willa, was born, we decided it was time to meet in person, especially after the restrictions were lifted and we got vaccinated.”

As they spent more time together, Judd invited Baumgarten to attend her wedding to her then-fiancé Andrew, leading Baumgarten to relate to Judd about her missed flower girl opportunity.

“At that point, I said to her, ‘I think we have an obvious answer,” said Judd.

With both Baumgarten and

Willa chosen as the wedding’s main flower girls, the two practiced and rehearsed for the special day. “It was adorable and fun,” said Judd. “They got to train each other on how they were going to both go down the aisle. More than anything, I think a lot of the preparation was seeing the two of them have fun with each other. She (Baumgarten) became one of my best friends and a part of the family, too.”

To this day, Baumgarten and Judd remain as close as ever, visiting each other’s houses weekly and visiting different attractions, such as the Bell Museum in downtown St. Paul. Though retired from nursing, Baumgarten has frequently volunteered at Tamarack Nature Center for 25 years, a position she still holds today.

website at www.

ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Hampton resident Mark Mueller is among the 20 artists who are featured at the White Bear Center for the Arts’ “Creative Pursuits: An ALS Association Pop-Up” exhibition. He is pictured here with his drawing, “Closer To Home, No Holds Barred.”

ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Lisa Lind of Shoreview poses with her short story, “Miles”. Lind wrote her piece using the Dragon NaturallySpeaking program, which uses speech recognition to create and format stories.

Bear Lake

Baltes,

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Vadnais Heights resident Marianne Baumgarten recently achieved her childhood dream of becoming a flower girl for a wedding .

Baumgarten became a flower girl for her newly acquainted friend Elizabeth Judd’s (right) wedding the previous month. Pictured here are Judd’s husband Andrew (left) and daughter Willa (center).

Baumgarten poses with her friend Elizabeth Judd’s then-newborn daughter, Willa

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

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)

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4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE

651-653-3802

4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE

651-653-3802

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

• Routine Cleanings

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Merle J. Richter

a beloved husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2024, at the age of 72. Service information and memorials can be sent to Wulff Funeral Home. Wulfffuneralhome.com

Mike Widmer

Age 72 of White Bear Lake passed into Glory on October 25, 2024 surrounded by family. As a longtime member of Redeeming Love Church the IBEW Local 292 Union, Mike was a faithful servant serving with a smile and joy in his heart. Mike leaves behind his wife of 50+ years, Bette Widmer; his “girls”, Mikki (Dalon) Schmidt; Terasa (Paul) Mayercak; and Vanessa Widmer (Jesse); Grandchildren Elizabeth, Paul, Zachary, Sam Mayercak, and Asher Schmidt; sisters, Ann (Rod) Wangerin and Donna Gummerson; Sisters-in-law Kathy (Larry) Myers, Gloria (Al) Newton, Barb (Melissa) Peterson; Brothers-in-law Dave (Pam) Mills, and Dan (Leigh) Mills; many loving nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral Service were held Nov 1st at RLC, 2425 White Bear Ave., Maplewood.

James W. Sampair

Age 93 of Mahtomedi, “SAM DIED” peacefully at home with family at his side October 26, 2024. He is preceded in death by son Scott. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Susan. Children Pete (Marta), Steve (Laura) , Tony (Laurie), Sandy, Nick (Irina) and Jim (Bridget). 18 grandchildren; 19+ great-grandchildren; brother Tom; and many other beloved relatives. Jim donated his body to the U of M Anatomy Bequest Program thus there will be a memorial mass November 6, 11:00 am at St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Donations preferred to St. Jude’s Catholic School, 700 Mahtomedi Ave, 55115.

John C. Walker, Jr.

Born April 26, 1933, passed away on October 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and family. He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Walker; father, John C. Walker, Sr.; and his son, Christopher Walker. John is survived by his loving wife, Jean C. Walker (Johnson), and his loving children: Dede (daughter) and Del Koenekamp, Tom (son) and Dawn Walker, Elizabeth (daughter) and Randy Lehs, Patricia Gatewood (daughter), Brad (son) and Joan Walker, and Susan Walker (Chris). He also leaves behind his sister, Margaret (Micki), and her husband, Ron Hoduski, as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

a fulfilling, and sometimes chaotic life, adopting six children, which brought adventure into their lives while raising them in White Bear Lake.

In addition to being a dedicated father, John served in the military; was a scout master and served on the Boy Scouts of America head council for many years. He was actively involved in singing in barbershop quartet, his passion that brought happiness and fulfillment. He worked at West Publishing for most of his career and eventually began traveling the world with Jean. He enjoyed tinkering with his models and train set and enjoyed engaging the grandchildren in his hobbies.

John will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation will be held on November 15, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Cremation Society of MN, 1979 Old Hudson Rd, St. Paul, Mn 55119. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Lutheran Social Services https://www.lssmn.org/get-involved/donate.

1948 – 2024

Passed away peacefully Oct. 26th with family at her side. Upon retirement from government service in Wash. DC, her home was in Vadnais Heights. She is predeceased by her parents, John and Alice Cincotta. She is survived by her brother Chris, 6 siblings, and her stepmother, Carol Cincotta. She was an aunt to 14 and gr-aunt to 15.

Cremation with services Nov. 7, 11 a.m. Mass followed by internment in St. John’s Cemetery, Little Canada

Born in Elk River, John spent his early years helping at the grocery store owned by his parents. He later attended Hamline University, where he met his future bride, Jean. Together, they embarked on

White Bear Lake Area Church Directory

Linda Marie Cincotta

CLASSIFIEDS

WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD NOTES

• High school Principal Russ Reetz gave an update about how staff and students were adjusting to the new year. According to Reetz, instructional focus has revolved around student engagement, classroom environment and school culture. Professional training highlighted these areas as well during development days on Oct. 26 and Nov. 5.

• Reetz presented student behavior statistics, which included over 70 cell phone referrals, a consequence in line with the new statewide restriction on cell phone use in the classroom. When Board Chair Jessica Ellison asked if the student representatives had any thoughts about the cell phone policy, junior Thomas Reese responded, “(Cell phone use) definitely isn’t a problem like it was last year. … You see people on their phones a little bit, but it’s not like—” Reese then pretended to scroll his phone with total disengagement. “I think it’s gone over pretty well.” Senior Lydia Kleinhans said, “My

ATHLETE

teacher’s more lenient to juniors and seniors. He said, ‘I could enforce it, but you guys are 17-18.’ I think it’s good for the underclassmen.” A PSEO student, Kleinhans added, “I’m not in the classroom enough to really know.”

• Lakeaires Elementary Principal Cary Krusemark updated the school board on changing demographics and policies in the school. Serving Pre-K through fifth grade, Lakeaires houses 395 students, 46% of whom qualify for free or reduced lunch. Students of color now make up 10% more of the body since the 2021-2022 school year.

The number of multilingual students, meanwhile, has doubled in the same time period.

• The White Bear Lake Area School Board next meets at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12. Attend at 4855 Bloom Ave. or livestream the meeting from isd624. org/about/school-board/meetingmaterials.

Logan Gion

OF THE WEEK Silvie Graetzer

White Bear Lake Volleyball

Silvie Graetzer is a key component on the Mahtomedi volleyball team that’s playing in the state tournament for the third time in her three years as a starter. The 6-foot-2 senior co-captain and middle blocker leads the Zephyrs (254) with 345 kills, .388 kill efficiency, and 85 stuff blocks (23 solo). She’s also an efficient server (92 percent) and digger. This season, with the Zephyrs dealing with multiple injuries that required offensive system adjustments, Graetzer has been “a consistent force that the team can rely on,” said Dana Pederson, assistant coach. Graetzer has signed with Colorado State University.

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Silvie Graetzer

STATE CHAMPIONS: Mahtomedi girls add another soccer title in shutout tourney

finals upset against TotinoGrace 1-0 last year — was long enough.

“It’s tough to motivate a team that’s won four state championships in a row,” quipped Mahtomedi coach Dave Wald. “It’s a lot easier to coach a team that’s bitter. And we were bitter this year.”

Emily Muetzel, who quarterbacks the vaunted Mahtomedi defensive corps, seconded that.

“Losing in section finals last year was, like, huge,” said Muetzel. “We have 11 seniors on this team, and all of us wanted it so bad. We knew the pain of losing last year. We didn’t want that to happen again.”

Wald added that a section loss like last year makes you “realize that you’re mortal as an athlete and to take each moment and make the most of it. And these guys did.”

The sweetness returned after a championship match that was a duel of two immovable objects. Each team finished with 17 shutouts. Mahtomedi (19-2-1) gave up just seven goals all year and Holy Angels (20-2) just eight goals.

“Our defense is special. We played our style,” Wald

acknowledged. “We knew that they have great players, but we’re going to run multiple players at you. We’re gonna hustle. We’re gonna be physical.”

Emery got the Zephyrs on the board when she took a perfect pass from Olivia Thiele about 25 yards from the net in the middle, and, in stride, scorched it over the goalie’s reach. It was her third goal of the season, in the 25th minute. “She (Thiele) took a touch and looked up and we made eye contact,” said Emery. “I knew I had to run across the field and just get to the ball. Holy Angels did a good job of defending so it was a foot race.”

Mahtomedi nursed the 1-0 lead comfortably as the game wore on and Ulschmid put the game virtually out of reach late with an unassisted goal in the 65th minute. Ulschmid broke through the defense, found herself one-on-one with goalie Téa Opitz from the left side, and punched her ninth goal of the year. “I felt no defender on me so I took a touch to turn and face the goalie,” Ulschmid said. “I could see her coming out, so, I like, blasted it, and it went through her legs and into the net.”

The Zephyrs permitted just one strong shot on goal by Holy Angels, a blast by Ellen

Neuharth, a Gophers recruit with 24 goals this year — on which 6-foot-3 goalie Harlow Berger stretched out her long arms to snag the ball right under the bar. “Ellen put it right up there under the crossbar,” Stars coach David Marshak said. “And, six foot three, she (Harlow) plucked it like it was nothing. That was kind of an eye-opening moment.”

Berger was not the only tall athlete to frustrate the Stars. “They have a big, physical back line that just cleaned up everything we threw at them,” Marshak said, adding that they are “well coached, well organized, very technical.” He mused that the game was like “trying to stay in a prize fight where the other fighter had an extra five inches of reach.”

That Zephyr defensive corps includes Muetzel, Sophia Peer, Alli McCleery, Presley Albers and Faith Peper, a Miss Soccer finalist. Just seven goals allowed (with Harlow and Jacque Warden alternating in goal) is an amazing stat, Wald said. “Against the opponents we play, most of them triple A, bigger schools.” They lost to Class 3A’s top-ranked White Bear Lake and No. 4 East Ridge and tied No. 3

Woodbury.

Mahtomedi had shutouts in all six playoff games including 2-0 over Totino-Grace in the section finals, then 3-0 over St. Francis and 7-0 over Mankato East at state. Against Mankato East, the Zephyrs led 2-0 at halftime as Muetzel drilled a shot from 20 yards and Sophia Peer touched the ball into the net off a corner kick. Thiele turned it into a rout with three straight goals early in the second half, including a highlight-reel header off a pass from Kayla Poirier. Allie Rippentrop notched a goal and assist, and Peer netted her second goal.

Four Zephyrs were among 16 named all-tournament: Emery, Ulschmid, Thiele and Peper. Wald credited assistant coach

Brad Gudenkauf for operating a “very focused” strength program that’s crucial to the team’s success. “Everybody loves it,” Wald said. The Zephyrs consistently win balls in the air and 50-50 balls because “that mentality is just instilled upon everybody to not be afraid of contact.” Wald added that since Gudenkauf has been with the program injuries are down 80 to 90 percent.

The 2024 state title is added to those earned in 1997, 1999, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021. In Wald’s 19 seasons as head coach, the Zephyrs have seven titles, two runner-up finishes, and a 30856-24 record. He was assistant on two of Mike Redmond’s state champs before that.

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

The Zephyrs hoisted the state championship trophy.

SPORTS

Two Bears all-state in cross country

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

A pair of White Bear Lake runners earned allstate status in the Class 3A state competition in Falcon Heights.

Bear senior Vaughn Larson placed 13th in 15:55.6 while junior Max Popp was 23rd in 16:12.4 at the University of Minnesota Golf Course. The top 25 state qualifiers make all-state.

It was Larson’s fourth state meet. He placed 27th last year, just missing all-state. Larson reflected that 13th at state was “a good placement” but not entirely satisfactory. “I was hoping to medal in the top ten.

I think I had a little more left in the tank at the end of the state race than I did at other races this year.”

Larson ran in the 12-13-14 spot the whole race. He said his extensive state experience was helpful. “Not only knowing what the calibre of competition will be, but how they are going to act in the race.”

Popp made a huge improvement from 72nd last season. “Being a year older and stronger certainly helped me be faster than I was last year,” said Popp, who lowered both his conference and state times by 23 seconds from 2023. “Every year I seem to figure out how I can push myself a

little bit harder.”

He was able to run in the top 30 after the first mile while still saving enough for the rest of the race. “From then on it was about maintaining contact with the pack of runners in the low 20s, and then closing fast in the last kilometer to catch as many people as I could.”

Edina edged Wayzata 106 to 112 for the state team title, while Robert Mechura, Roseville senior, repeated as individual champion in 15:03.7.

The Bears had four state qualifiers after placing a close third in the Section 4AAA meet behind Stillwater and Two Rivers, who placed

sixth and seventh at state. Bear seniors Isaac Kolstad and Andrew Greene ran together and placed 71st and 72nd, in 16:42.3 and 16:42.6, respectively, among 161 runners.

While the Bears were disappointed not to advance as a team, coach Dan Kovacich called it a good year. “We had a really tough section,” he elaborated. “At conference, we beat Roseville by 30 points and they placed eighth in the state.” Just for fun, Kovacich and assistant Patricia Percival calculated what the state team scoring would have been with four runners. “We would have finished seventh of 16 teams,” he noted.

Zephyrs storm back to state volleyball tournament

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Mahtomedi will play in the state volleyball tournament for the third consecutive season after crushing Hill-Murray 25-18, 25-17, 25-16 in the Section 4AAA championship match.

“I’m excited for the state tournament, and ready to work hard and try and get our first win there,” said Silvie Graetzer, who’ll make her third state trip. The Zephyrs have gone 0-2 at state the last two years.

Kaili Malvey rattled off 14 kills, Graetzer 13 and Louisa Tarnowski 11 against HillMurray. Katie Hergenrader made 44 assists. Hergenrader aced three serves and Tarnowski two. Graetzer made six blocks. Nora Bonifas-Johnson served 16-for-17 with an ace and made five kills.

The Zephyrs, ranked No. 9 in

Class 3A, are 25-4 after beating three section opponents with losing records. Seeded No. 4 in the state tournament by the coaches, Mahtomedi will open against No. 5 Alexandria on Wednesday at 5 p.m.

Graetzer and Kaili Malvey were starters as sophomores on Mahtomedi’s first-ever state tourney team that went 25-7. The rest of the lineup graduated. With mostly new players year, the Zephyrs started 3-8 but finished 17-15. This year, it’s a veteran, senior-led team.

“I had a lot of confidence this year with most of our starters back,” Graetzer said. “We kind of picked up right where we left off. We had adversity in the middle of the season with some injuries but we were able to persevere and I’m really proud of that.”

Malvey will be making her sixth state trip, counting three in trackand-field as a long- and triple-

White Bear girls place 13th in state XC

The White Bear Lake girls placed 13th of 16 teams in the state Class 3A cross country meet, after winning their first section title since 2017. Logan Bailey, Bear freshman, placed 29th of 160 runners in 19:03.9 at the University of Minnesota Golf Course. The top 25 are all-state. The Bears top five also included seventh grader Isla Bloomquist placing 91st in 20:08, senior Amelia Nachtsheim 115th in 20:32, sophomore Clara Kolstad 121st in 20:36 and sophomore Erika Milhofer 134th in 20:50. Wayzata was team champion while Forest Lake’s Norah Hushagen repeated as individual champion in 17:32.

Bruce Strand

jumper and hurdler. Malvey was spraying kills in all directions against H-M. ”That’s something that I’ve been working on. I used to only be able to hit one shot.” By moving the ball around she can avoid getting blocked, she said.

Coach Tia Schlundt, who played in national tournaments for perennial powerhouse ConcordiaSt. Paul, said the dynamic among the girls is what she likes most about this group. “It’s rare to find a team where they are friends on and off the court. That’s the difference,” she said. “Yes, we have a lot of physical talent, but if you don’t have that team cohesion, you’re not going to get very far.”

She likes the team’s depth, too. Mahtomedi lost outside hitter Sahar Ramaley with a torn ACL early in the season and Hergenrader missed six weeks with a shoulder injury. “We moved players around and brought up some younger kids from the JV,” Schlundt said.

The Zephyrs’ top servers are Tarnowski and Claire Crothers, each with around 50 aces, and Malvey with about 40. Crothers leads in digs with over 300. Hergenrader averages 5.5 assist per game as does backup Ashley Moeller. Graetzer has almost 350 kills with kill efficiency of .388,which is very high, and over 80 blocks. Malvey has about 270 kills and Tarnowski about 200.

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS

CROSS COUNTRY

Three Mahtomedi runners competed in the state cross country meet. Matthew Johnson, Zephyr senior, placed 83rd in the Class 2A boys race in 17:04 at the University of Minnesota Golf Course, while junior Matthew Studenski was 140th in 17:57. In the girls race, freshman Vanessa Rogosheske placed 128th in 21:47. There were 160 runners in each race. The Zephyr trio qualified at the Section 4AA meet a week earlier.

GIRLS HOCKEY

The Roseville/ Mahtomedi girls hockey team will open with road games against Duluth on Saturday and Mounds View/ Irondale on Tuesday. The Marauders, coached by Craig Rosenthal, were 17-9 last season. Returning starters include goalie Lily Peterfeso. Three of the top four scorers graduated. Top scorers back are Addison Andre (16 goals, 21 assists), Olivia Martin (3-20) and Sophie Martin (8-12).

VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT

Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul

Quarterfinals Wednesday 1-Delano vs. 8-Hermantown, 5 p.m. 4-Mahtomedi vs. 5-Alexandria, 5 p.m. 2-Marshall vs. 7-Monticello, 7 p.m. 3-Stewartville vs. 6-Cretin-Derham Hall, 5 p.m.

Semifinals Friday, 9 and 11 a.m.

Third place Saturday, 4:30 p.m.

Championship Saturday, 3 p.m.

Consolation semifinals Friday, 9 and 11 a.m.

Consolation finals Saturday, 8:30 a.m.

RON ENGH | CONTRIBUTED

Vaughn Larson (left) placed 13th and Max Popp (right) 23rd at the state cross country meet.

BETH DONAHUE | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED Mahtomedi players and coaches assembled after beating Hill-Murray for the section crown.