Vadnais Heights Press

Public safety contract: Attorney suggests ‘possibility of litigation’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

The city of White Bear Lake and White Bear Township are in the middle of a contract dispute dealing with what the township is expected to pay for the new public safety building.

“Pursuant to the city’s longstanding service contract with White Bear Township, the city invoices the township annually for its proportionate share of costs associated with operating the city’s fire department, which includes emergency medical services (EMS). Those invoices include the township’s fair share of fire department building costs,”

said City Manager Lindy Crawford. “The city’s position, which is supported by the contract, is simply that all jurisdictions within the fire service area should pay an equitable share of the costs required to provide the high-quality, effective fire services that White Bear Lake offers.”

The city of White Bear Lake’s fire service area includes approximately 38,000 people from the city, township, Birchwood Village, Dellwood and Gem Lake. The city also provides police services to Gem Lake.

The total bond issue (principal and interest) for the new public safety building amounts to $25,864,966 to be paid over a 20-year period. Of that, the

five communities will be responsible for approximately $12.8 million.

Each year, the city of White Bear Lake is required to provide notice about what the following year’s cost of services will be to each community.

On Aug. 29, 2023, the city of White Bear Lake mailed a letter and breakdown of the 2024 budget to the township. Per the letter, the calculation of what the township owes takes half of the total bond principal and interest for the project attributed to the fire operations, reduces the total by $100,000 (already collected during the 2023 contract payments) and

SEE CONTRACT DISPUTE, PAGE 5

Local wildlife on the move

at this time of year, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety offers some tips that include; drive at safe speeds and be especially cautious from 6 - 9 p.m., when deer are most active. Use high beams as much as possible at night, especially in deer-active areas and don’t

Public safety building: What each community owes for 2024

• White Bear Lake: $416,508

• White Bear Township: $182,319

• Dellwood: $19,502

• Birchwood Village: $14,357

• Gem Lake: $8,941

‘A Midsummer

Night’s

Dream’ comes to Mahtomedi

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

What do you get when you mix ancient Greece, an enchanted fairy-inhabited forest and big laughs from one of the most renowned playwrights of the 16th century? You get William Shakespeare’s classic comedic tale, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which will be performed at Mahtomedi High School later this month.

The play, set in Athens, focuses on different subplots surrounding the marriage of Theseus and Hippolyta. One subplot involves a conflict among four Athenian lovers.

Another follows a group of six actors rehearsing a play to be performed before the wedding, only to find themselves in the company of magical fairies who manipulate them for their own desires.

“Shakespeare wrote for all of us,” said Dennis Joslyn, who has been the

High School

school’s play director for the past four years. “He did a great job of making sure the common person can see themselves in his productions. I’m a believer that he should be seen and heard, not just read.” According to Joslyn, the play will be performed in a condensed 90-version for the sake of timing but will otherwise remain faithful to the original text. “We’ve done a really good job of Vkeeping all of the humor and the original plot,” added Joslyn. “There are a couple of characters that we’ve maybe reassigned, too. There isn’t anything major that we’re cutting.”

“He (Shakespeare) was ahead of his time with the kind of humor that he has,” said freshman Henry Aflakpi, who portrays Basil, a fairy follower of Titania, Queen of the Fairies. “I feel like it’s played a big part in the kind of humor we have

SEE MAHTOMEDI HIGH SCHOOL, PAGE 21

Some young deer were recently spotted around sunset grazing in a yard near Highway 244 in Mahtomedi. The start of the Minnesota firearm deer hunting season has added an additional reason to drive with caution on area roads. With more deer being spotted on the move and crossing roadways

swerve to avoid a deer.

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Sarah Boo, DDS PA

Aaron Rother is bringing years of media sales experience to his new position as director of digital and multimedia sales for Press Publications in White Bear Lake, Northstar Media in Cambridge, Kanabec Publications in Mora, and Sentinel Publications, headquartered in Amery, Wisconsin. Most recently, Rother was director of digital sales for Adams Publishing Group’s Twin Cities group. He is a graduate of America’s Newspapers executive development program and has earned top sales awards.

““I am thrilled to join our local newspaper media group’s sales team in effort to lead and expand

our digital marketing capabilities with our local businesses and marketplace. Building relationships with businesses and partnering with them to achieve their goals through creative and proven advertising is the heart and soul of my advertising career. Our local advertising team has fantastic relationships within our local communities. I look forward to joining them to deliver cost-effective and results driven digital advertising solutions to our business community,” Rother said. Rother can be reached at aaron@ northstarmedia.net.

CONSTRUCTION BRIEF

Martin Way/Rice Street roundabout nears completion

A new roundabout is being constructed at Martin Way and Rice Street in Vadnais Heights. Currently, Martin Way will now be a dead end to ensure traffic safety near the

roundabout. At the same time, two additional areas resembling parking spaces have been created at the end of Martin Way to provide a place for garbage and delivery trucks to turn

around. Jim Hauth, director of public works, said this will prevent large vehicles from needing to reverse down Martin Way. A trail is planned for the east side of Rice Street, and

a surmountable curb will also be installed to allow emergency vehicles access to the dead end if necessary. The area is scheduled for completion and will open to traffic on Nov. 27.

OPINION

Tx 3

My husband and I recently welcomed another four-legged member into our family. Meet Tinsel, a 4-year-old shepherd mix, from FaerieLand Rescue. Although I haven’t adopted a dog from the organization before, the rescue has always had a special place in my heart because it focuses on German shepherds and corgis, two of my favorite breeds. My mother’s dog Princess, who just celebrated her 7th birthday, is from FaerieLand.

Shannon’s

Shenanigans

Shannon Granholm

I’ve been following Tinsel’s rescue story since she arrived at the rescue last January, a month after we had to say goodbye to our beloved Frosty who had degenerative myelopathy. Tinsel was rescued from a reservation. Shortly after her arrival, it was discovered that she was pregnant. She had her puppies, and her puppies were all adopted, but she was still waiting patiently for a home she could call her own.

In mid-October the rescue posted on its social media that Tinsel was still available and looking for her “furever” home. She stole my heart from the minute I saw her. But my husband Patrick and I already have our hands full with a toddler and two other pups. I kept trying to find reasons why it wouldn’t work: What if she doesn’t’ get along with our dogs? What if she doesn’t like an unpredictable one-and-a-half year old following her around everywhere? What if she doesn’t like going to car shows?

But then I started thinking… What if she does? What if the mama in her loves looking out for my little boy? What if she does get along with Twinkie and Tundra and they become best pals? What if she does like riding around in a VW bus and going to car shows and dog-friendly events?

I asked my husband if we could have her and he said, “I’m not saying no, but there is a lot we would have to figure out.”

Unbeknownst to my husband, I decided to meet up with her with my son Royce to see how she would do and she did great. Then I met up with her again at a local park to see how she did with the pups and that went well too. I told him about it right after. He eventually warmed up to the idea of trying it out to see how it goes. Then he met her and fell in love too like I knew he would.

We agreed to foster Tinsel with the intent of adopting her. It took less than a week to know she was going to fit into our family just fine.

I can’t help but feel like she was meant for us. Something about her just drew me to her and I knew we had to have her. That happened with Tundra too. Too perfect to pass up.

I can’t explain it because there have been several other dogs who have crossed my social media feed that I thought were adorable, but I never had the urge to figure out how to make them a part of our family. Perhaps our sweet angel Frosty sent her to us.

One day while I was working, Tinsel sat down beside me and placed her paw right over my hand on top of the paw print ring I have made of Frosty’s ashes. If that’s not a sign I don’t know what is. I never thought we would have three dogs again, but it sure is nice to see a shepherd in our home again. Twinkie, Tundra and Tinsel sure is a tonguetwister though.

Shannon is the managing editor at Press Publications.

Talking deer collisions with U of M

On the first Sunday of November each year in the United States, clocks “fall back” one hour with the end of daylight saving time and usher in the shorter, darker days of the winter months. This adjustment has serious implications beyond the loss of sunlight: research shows that the end of daylight saving time brings a 16% rise in vehicle and deer collisions in the week following.

Movers & Shakers

Ron Moen, a wildlife biologist at the Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI), associate professor in UMD’s Swenson College of Science and Engineering and scholar in the Center for Transportation Studies, discusses how deer collisions affect Minnesota drivers and how we can all stay safer as the seasons change.

Q: How do deer collisions affect Minnesota drivers?

A: The effect of a deer-vehicle collision (DVC) on drivers varies. While most DVCs only cause property damage, collisions can cause an injury or, even worse, a fatality. About 1,300 DVCs have been reported to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety in recent years, but our data, and data from insurance claims, suggests

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the true number of DVCs in Minnesota is at least 10 times higher, and maybe up to 20 times higher. The cost of time and money for repairs to the vehicle after a collision is high, but — particularly when injuries or fatalities happen — there is a significant emotional cost on top of the financial costs of a DVC.

Q: What contributes to the rise in deer collisions with the end of daylight saving time?

A: The rise in DVCs observed at the end of daylight saving time is likely a combination of three main factors. On the deer behavior side, deer are typically more active around dusk and dawn, and deer also move more in the fall than at other times of the year. On the human side, when we end daylight savings time, the peak commute hour coincides with dusk, which means there are a lot of people driving right at the time that there are a lot of active deer.

Q: What steps can drivers take to avoid deer collisions?

A: Driver speed and driver awareness are key. If you drive at the speed limit, particularly in areas where you commonly see deer, you’ll have more time to react if you see a deer and therefore more time to avoid hitting the deer. It is also important for drivers to maintain awareness of your surroundings. You should consciously watch for deer as you’re driv-

ing, and if you see a deer, anticipate that it could move into the roadway. Especially if one deer crosses the road, a second or third deer may follow.

Q: How is the U of M improving knowledge on deer collisions?

A: Deer-vehicle collisions have a tremendous financial and emotional cost for the citizens of Minnesota. My team at the U of M has been working with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to gather data on all the DVCs reported in the past 20 years to predict roadway corridors and specific sections of those corridors that are particularly risky for DVCs. This provides insight into what factors — such as adjacent land use and speed limit — along with other roadway characteristics are particularly risky for DVCs. This project was a first step to evaluate the overall effect of DVCs on Minnesota drivers — the last study created from Minnesota data was published in 2003. Since then we’ve had over 40,000 DVCs reported to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, which, given our estimates of the reporting rate, add up to several hundred thousand DVCs in actuality. If our project helps reduce DVCs by even one half of a percent, it would more than pay for itself.

Ron Moen is a wildlife biologist at the Natural Resources Research Institute.

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

Ron Moen

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Managing our food waste

A big shout-out to the Vadnais Heights Lions, who conducted their fall waffle breakfast as a “wastefree” event. In partnership with the Vadnais Heights Green Team, Scout Troops 7212 and 9212 and the city of Vadnais Heights, the event was able to divert over 200 lbs of organic waste from going into a landfill. By using compostable plates and utensils, all the food and waste could be composted! The city provided the composting and recycling stations; the Scouts cleared the tables, ensuring the waste items were disposed of properly; and the Green Team provided the guidance and education to attendees on what was compostable, recyclable versus trash. We heard many positive comments from attendees who were appreciative of the efforts of the Lions to be sustainable at the event. The event served 775 people, showing all of us that we too can hold waste-free events. And with the holidays coming up, we should all be thinking about how we will manage our food waste.

Judy Lissick Vadnais Heights

A big thank you to election volunteer, first responders

My wife and I arrived at the White Bear Lake City Hall to vote on Election Day morning. After waiting in the line outside, we were inside, at the head of the line and about to start voting when my wife became faint and collapsed.

A volunteer election worker named Carol immediately intervened and gave great assistance until the White Bear Lake first responders arrived. A young man of the first responders team immediately began taking vital signs in the City Hall and more in the emergency vehicle.

When it was determined that my wife’s condition was not serious, Carol took me back to the head of the line and personally escorted me through the voting process and then took me out to the emergency vehicle where my wife was waiting.  We should all be thankful and proud of the volunteers we have like Carol, and of the first responders we have in White Bear Lake.

Richard Dostal White Bear Lake

Thank you, Mayor Krachmer

Craig Johnson wrote that those who serve in public office should not be worried about how much they earn. I disagree. Money does help attract those who we want to serve on City Council and as Mayor. Craig wrote that the mayor spends 3.5 hours for Council meetings and that same amount to prepare, twice a month.  Also noted: Mayor Mike is available on the 4th Monday at Perkins to have breakfast with any constituents who want to discuss an issue. Mayor Mike has office hours on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month to hear people’s concerns. I would like to add that Mayor Mike came

COMMUNITY BRIEF

to the Halloween Party for the kids on Friday, in costume and thanked all of the volunteers. He attended the Scarecrow Walk and chose the Mayor’s Award. He attended the Green Team’s Adopt-A-Drain event on Saturday, Oct. 26 and spent over 1.5 hours cleaning drains. He has adopted a drain in his neighborhood and checks on it consistently. Mike was seen walking on Koehler Road to check out the construction project and chat with homeowners. Mayor Mike shared this much time just in October and is given only $625 per month. Yes, he deserves a raise.

Kathy Pittelko Vadnais Heights

This is public service

I don’t know how past Council Members and Mayors have done the job, but I do know how the current Mayor (Mike Krachmer) serves Vadnais Heights. For twice-monthly Council meetings, he reads 300+ pages of material and researches all the topics well enough to ask pertinent questions and lead and make decisions. He meets 2-3 times per month with the City Administrator and other staff. Monthly, he attends the Planning Commission and Regional Council of Mayors meetings. Bimonthly, he meets with 7 local Mayors. He also meets about development projects and the hiring and managing of consultants.

During his first two years, he attended 30 hours of emergency preparedness training, 120 hours of training and two 3-day League of Minnesota Cities conferences to understand the role of local government. He creates access to local government for all residents through a monthly Breakfast with the Mayor event, twice-monthly office hours, conversation time before each Music in the Park event, and attendance at quarterly Senior Lunches, Vadnais Heights Days, and Scarecrow Trail events. In addition to scheduled meetings and education, the Mayor receives notification about fires, crimes, and other emergencies and he researches and responds to all calls and letters from residents.

The current Mayor and City Council members are trying to recover from past inadequate funding for infrastructure. They are focused on the needs of Vadnais Heights and its residents (housing, homelessness, safe and professional public safety services, environmental safety, property and business development) over the next 50 years, not their next paycheck or next election.

The description I’ve provided here is how I personally define public service, rather than by the salary paid for this part-time role. By the way, even with the upcoming raise, the time the Mayor invests in this role will still pay less than the hourly wage of a newly hired staffer at McDonalds!

Task force invites public to weigh in Birchwood Village’s Lake Links Park Trail Task Force invites residents to a public forum to provide input and gather input on future trail options at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov.

14 at Village Hall. The meeting will include a short presentation on the task force’s purpose and goals, as well as an open forum for the public to ask questions and provide input.

CONTRACT DISPUTE:

City hopes to resolve promptly, continue

services

divides the remaining amount by 20 years.

For 2024, the township is expected to pay $516,670 — $182,316 of that for the building and $334,354 for fire and EMS services.

Per the city’s contract with the township, the fire services formula considers nine items, including “the cost of fire department buildings depreciated over the asset’s useful life.”

The township does not agree that it has to pay the interest portion on the debt service.

Township Attorney Chad Lemmons said, “Considering the distinct possibility of litigation— actually, more than distinct—there’s no comment we can make at this time.” Lemmons added that Gem Lake, Birchwood and Dellwood “are talking.”

Back in August, Lemmons told the town board that interest is calculated “in a straight-line depreciation of equipment and buildings over their useful life.”

The dispute largely centers around whether the new public safety building is included in that depreciation. If it is not, he says township residents will have to pay roughly $4 million extra over the next 20 years.

Town Supervisor Steve Ruzek noted the township was not “dissatisfied with the service” but rather just wanted to discuss the contract.

The city and township currently have a five-year contract that runs through Jan. 1, 2028. Per

the contract, if the contracting jurisdiction “fails to timely pay” for fire services, the city can terminate the contract as long as it provides 120-days notice.

Crawford said the city has not served a notice of termination, but it has “reminded the township” of its contract obligations. “We have no desire to stop serving them,” she said. “We have always enjoyed a good relationship with them. We want to continue to do that. We want to keep serving them.”

As of last week, Crawford confirmed that the township has agreed to pay the principal portion of what it owes for 2024, which equates to $118,506, leaving $63,810 of interest outstanding. Gem Lake has paid only the principal portion, $5,812, while Dellwood and Birchwood have each paid their total bill for 2024.

“The city takes its responsibility to provide fire and EMS services very seriously, and has traditionally enjoyed a positive relationship with each community it serves,” Crawford said. “We hope to resolve this dispute promptly and continue providing the highest quality service to our neighbors in White Bear Township because when it comes to a fire or medical emergency, every second counts, and there is no fire department in the area better prepared than White Bear Lake Fire to respond.”

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

LettersSantato

Laurie Krachmer Vadnais Heights

6 VADNAIS HEIGHTS

PUBLIC NOTICES

CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Vadnais Heights City Council will meet and conduct public hearings on Tuesday, November 19 at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 800 East County Road E, to consider:

• Ordinance No. 780: Tobacco Ordinance Updates

• Ordinance No. 781: Mobile Food Units

• Ordinance No. 782: Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention

Anyone wishing to be heard in regard to these matters will be given an opportunity at this time. The materials are available for public review at City Hall during normal business hours. Questions or comments should be directed to Kevin Watson, City Administrator at kevin.watson@cityvadnaisheights.com or 651-204-6000.

FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS

Kevin P. Watson, City Administrator

Dated: October 21, 2024

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 6 and 13, 2024.

CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Vadnais Heights Planning Commission will meet and conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, November 26 at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 800 East County Road E, to consider an application submitted by the City of Vadnais Heights for a zoning/city code amendment concerning alternative energy systems.

Anyone wishing to be heard in regard to this matter will be given an opportunity at this time. The application is available for public review at City Hall during normal business hours and will be posted on the City’s website in advance of the meeting. Questions or comments should be directed to Nolan Wall, Planning/Community Development Director, at 651-204-6027 or nolan. wall@cityvadnaisheights.com.

FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS

Kevin P. Watson, City Administrator

Dated: November 13, 2024

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 13, 2024.

NORTHEAST METRO

916

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA BOARD NOTES

OCTOBER 2, 2024

The regular meeting of the School Board of Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District was held on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at Bellaire School and the following business was transacted.

Meeting Called to Order

The meeting was called to order by Chair Forsberg at 6:00 p.m.

Roll Call of Attendance

Members present: Palmer-13, Jones-14, Forsberg-16, Oksnevad-282, Bock- 621, Nitardy-622, Clark-623, Payne-832, and Hockert-834. Members Absent: Knisely-12, Daniels-624, Theisen-831, and Dols- 833. Also present: Dr. Val Rae Boe, superintendent.

Approval of Agenda

Adopted the agenda as presented, limited discussion to the approved agenda, and accepted the list of items proposed for consent adoption. Board Calendar Dates Wednesday, October 2, 2024 – School Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, November 14, 2024 - AMSD and Brightworks Annual Conference from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Questions and/or Comments from Citizens Present on Non-Agenda Items

Jeremy Tilsen spoke regarding metal detectors at 916 Mahtomedi Academy.

Delegates to the Annual School Board Conference

Each year, Northeast Metro 916 provides an opportunity for two School Board Members to attend a national conference. AESA will be held in Orlando on December 4-6th, COSSBA will be held in Atlanta on March 21st-23rd, and NSBA will be held in Atlanta on April 4-6th. Chair Forsberg asked Board Members that are eligible this year to consider the opportunity.

First Reading of School Board Policy Policies 419 and 606 were presented as a first reading and will be brought back in November for approval.

Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Boe commented on the following items that were included in her written report: (a) Member Highlights; (b) Legislative Update; (c) Happy, Proud, and Just; (d) New Student DEI Scope and Sequence; (e) Bridges to Success; and (f) Strategic Actions Program Spotlight: Karner Blue Education Center Video.

Approval of the Consent Agenda

Approved the consent items, accepted as part of the approval of the agenda, consistent with the recommended actions presented by the administration.

Approval of Minutes Payment of Bills and ACH Payments

Personnel

Assurance of Compliance with State and Federal Law Prohibiting Discrimination Retirements (10+ Years)

Approved the retirement of David Stark, Education Assistant Specialist, who has provided the school district with 15 years of service. His retirement date is October 2, 2024.

Approval of School Board Policy

Approved Policy 522.

Adopt Proposed Policy Modifications

School Board Policy 208 states: If a policy is modified with minor changes that do not affect the substance of the policy or because of a legal change over which the school board has no control, the modified policy may be approved at one meeting at the discretion of the school board. Policies 532, 532.1, 609, and 802 were approved.

Board Forum

Member Oksnevad shared that the AMSD meeting on Friday will be focused on legislative advocacy. She also shared that she joined the MN Education Policy Fellowship and while it’s open to everyone, she is the only Board Member and would recommend other Board Members look into joining. Through this, she attended the AESA Advocacy Conference in Washington DC and shared her experience. She highlighted several events and talked about how fascinating it was to attend the Right and Left Wing Think Tanks and the work they are doing around education. She ended by saying how valuable the fellowship experience was and how interesting it was to advocate at a federal level.

Meeting Adjourned

Adjourned the meeting at 6:37 p.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 13, 2024. RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing at 9 a.m., or as soon thereafter as possible, on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in the Ramsey County Courthouse – Saint Paul City Hall (Council Chambers - Room 300), 15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102.

This public hearing will be conducted in order to afford the public an opportunity to comment on the proposed Ramsey County Arts, Culture and Creative Enterprise Advisory Commission Ordinance.

The entire proposed Ordinance can be found on Ramsey County’s web site www.ramseycounty.us (under the Public Notice section on the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners’ page) or obtained by calling the Chief Clerk – County Board at 651-266-9200.

Persons who intend to testify are requested to contact the Chief Clerk –County Board prior to December 3, 2024. If in-person testimony is not feasible, comments may alternatively be provided via the following methods:

Zoom Webinar ID: 994 2071 4808 | Passcode: 650808 | Phone: 651372-8299

Email: chiefclerk@ramseycounty.us | Phone: 651-266-9200 | Written Mail: Chief Clerk, 15 W. Kellogg Blvd, Suite 250, Saint Paul, MN 55102

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 13, 2024. RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES

OCTOBER 15, 2024

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:01 a.m. with the following members present: Frethem, McGuire, Moran, Ortega, Xiong and Chair Reinhardt. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.

AGENDA of October 15, 2024 was presented for approval Motion by Frethem, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved.

MINUTES of October 8, 2024 were presented for approval Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Frethem.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Community & Economic Development – Amendment to the Sole Source Agreement with Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers for the Ramsey County Open to Business Program. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-203)

Community & Economic Development – Certification of Property Assessed Clean Energy Charges for Energy Improvements. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-204)

Community & Economic Development –Acceptance of 2024 Local Affordable Housing Aid. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-205)

Public Works – Transfer of Excess Municipal County State Aid Highway Funds. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-206)

Financial Assistance Services – County Burial Assistance Program Rate Increase. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-207)

Information and Public records – Reappointment of Ramsey County Assessor. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-208)

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

Presented by County Manager, Ling Becker. Discussion can be found on archived video.

OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

Discussion can be found on archived video.

BOARD CHAIR UPDATE

Presented by Chair Reinhardt. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADJOURNMENT

Chair Reinhardt declared the meeting adjourned at 10:01 a.m.

CLOSED MEETING

Pursuant to Minnesota Statues 13D.05 subdivision 3(b) in order to discuss cybersecurity updates, the Ramsey County Board will meet in a closed meeting, which is not open to the public.

Re Cybersecurity Updates.

The Closed Meeting was called to order at 10:37 a.m. with the following members present: Commissioners Frethem, McGuire, Moran, Ortega, Xiong and Chair Reinhardt. Also present: Ling Becker, County Manager; Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Office of the Ramsey County Attorney; Chetan Ganatra, Chief Information Officer, Information Services; Stacy Kaiser, Chief Information Security Officer, Information Services; Karen Francois, Deputy County Manager, Information and Public Records Service Team; Deanna Pesik, Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer, County Manager’s office; Mandy Malecek, Enterprise Risk Manager, Finance; Jason Patten, Risk Specialist, Compliance & Ethics Office; avid Triplett, deputy Director, Property Tax, Records and Election Services; Matt Starland, IS Technical Architect, Information Services; Judd Freed, Director, Emergency Management and Homeland Security; Susan Earle, Chief finance Officer, Finance; and Mee Cheng, Chief Clerk –County Manager’s Office.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Ramsey County Commissioners authorizes the Office of the Ramsey County staff to proceed as discussed in this closed meeting.

The closed meeting was adjourned at 12:05 p.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 13, 2024.

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-24-816

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR DESCENT OF PROPERTY

Estate of Lillian Clara Wennes, Decedent.

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

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

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

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Petition will be heard using remote technology on December 13, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. by this Court using remote technology via zoom. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that this Notice shall be published in a legal newspaper in Ramsey County once per week for two consecutive weeks in a row and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

BY THE COURT:

Michael Upton, Court Administrator

BY: Kimberly Smith, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: October 24, 2024

Self-Represented Litigant: David John Beguhl

811 7th Avenue St. Paul Park, MN 55071

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 6 and 13, 2024.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT, DISTRICT COURT PROBATE DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-24-886

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of: Steven James Oelrich, a/k/a Steven J. Oelrich and Steven Oelrich, Decedent. NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination of heirship, and for the appointment of Carol E. Oelrich, whose address is 3982 Riverton Avenue S., Eagan, MN 55122, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

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

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

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice. Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

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

BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: October 25, 2024

Attorney for Petitioner: Amy R. Mason, MN# 0347760 200 Professional Building 363 5th Avenue North, Bayport, MN 55003

Telephone: 651-430-2630; Facsimile: 651-430-2813

e-mail: amason@cblawoffices.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 13 and 20, 2024.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT CASE TYPE: PERSONAL INJURY SUMMONS

SHAYLA FARRAR, Plaintiff, vs. LEELOR PEKYING, Defendent. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO: THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANT.

1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff’s Complaint against you is attached to this summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this summons.

2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 21 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this summons a written response called an Answer within 21 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: FLORIN ROEBIG, PA 777 Alderman Road Palm Harbor, FL 34683 Phone: 952-314-4771 Service Emails/Fax: Fax: 952-807-0065 (Brent) Fax: 651-251-0818 (Angela) CKFlorin@florinroebig.com Ncostantino@florinroebig.com KStevens@florinroebig.com BImholte@florinroebig.com ABucko@florinroebig.com

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 21** days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the complaint.

5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute.

FLORIN ROEBIG, P.A.

Dated: September 3, 2024 /s/ Chad Florin

Chad K. Florin, Esq. #0398191

Nicholas S. Costantino, Esq. #0398231

Kevin L. M. Stevens, Esq. #0400253

Physical Address: 7760 France Avenue South, Suite 130 Minneapolis, MN 55435

Mailing Address: 777 Alderman Road Palm Harbor, FL 34683

Telephone: (800) 226-6581

Service Emails:

CKFlorin@florinroebig.com

Ncostantino@florinroebig.com

KStevens@florinroebig.com

BIMHOLTE@florinroebig.com

ABucko@florinroebig.com

ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The undersigned attorney acknowledges, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §549.211 (2), that the attorney and the attorney’s client are aware that upon motion of a party, or upon the court’s own motion, the court in its discretion may award to that party costs, disbursements, reasonable attorney’s fees and witness fees if the party or attorney against whom costs, disbursements, reasonable attorney and witness fees are charged acted in bad faith, asserted a claim or defense that is frivolous and that is costly to the other party, asserted on unfounded position solely to delay the ordinary course of the proceedings or to harass, or committed a fraud upon the court.

Dated: September 3, 2024 /s/ Chad Florin

Nicholas S. Costantino, Esq.

Kevin L.M. Stevens, Esq.

Chad K. Florin, Esq.

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on November 13, 20 and 27, 2024.

OF, BY AND FOR THE PEOPLE, RESTORING GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY

WHAT’S HAPPENING

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

WILDWOOD LIONS BLOOD DRIVE

When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15

Where: St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave., Mahtomedi

Details: Sign up online at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800 RED CROSS

VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD PROGRAM

When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16

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

Details: Distribution of food to any family in need and considered low income. May register day of event. Contact: 612-245-9259 or cityvadnaisheights.com/foodshelf

HARD WATER ICE FISHING EXPO

When: Nov. 16-17

Where: National Sports Center, 1750 105th Ave. NE, Blaine

Details: Latest gear, seminars, demos,

Clam Ice Fishing Pros and kids trout fishing pond.  Contact: nscsports.org/ hardwaterexpo

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21

Where: Downtown White Bear Lake Details: Kick off the holidays by shopping locally at downtown retailers and restaurants. Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com

PAWS TO READ WITH BAXTER

When: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13

Where: Ramsey County Library –White Bear Lake, 2150 2nd St. Details: Come work on your reading

skills in a low-stress environment. Our licensed therapy dogs welcome all school-age readers to participate in this special program. This program is appropriate for readers ages 5-9 years.

Contact: Call the White Bear Lake Library at 651-724-6007 to register for a 20-minute slot.

101 COMPUTER TECH HELP

When: 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Nov. 14

Where: Ramsey County Library –White Bear Lake, 2150 2nd St. Details: Individual basic computer and technology help is now available by appointment at the White Bear Lake Library! Staff will help with your basic technology questions

ONE FAMILY’S JOURNEY ON MINNESOTA’S TRAIL OF TEARS

When: 6-7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 18

Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St., White Bear Lake

Details: Dakota Theatre artist and WBLAHS board president Rob Thomas tells the story of his family’s journey since 1862, and discusses the tools and resources used to find information. Contact: whitebearhistory. org

including email, working on resumes or documents, mobile devices, e-books and social media.

Contact: Call 651-724-6007 to schedule your 30-minute help session

FAMILY STORYTIME

When: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15

Where: Ramsey County Library –White Bear Lake, 2150 2nd St.

Details: Join us in-person for stories, songs, and rhymes designed to enhance your child’s early literacy skills. Appropriate for ages 2-5. No registration is required.

Contact: (651) 724-6007

White Bear Lake Area Church Directory

COPS&COURTS

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Dellwood

• Deputies cited a motorist Oct. 9 in the 80000 block of Dellwood Avenue for hands-free cell phone violation. The motorist admitted to being on the phone with her husband asking what he wanted from Dairy Queen.

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies at 1:25 a.m. Oct. 19 fell victim to a common occurrence this time of year after the squad hit a deer on Dellwood Avenue. The squad sustained minor damage and was still operable, with only a small dent behind the front passenger side wheel well.

Grant

Deputies on speed patrol in the 9000 block of 65th Street N. on Oct. 7 cited a motorist for speeding and for displaying expired registration.

• On Oct 19, deputies assisted the Stillwater Police Department with a theft that occurred in the 6000 block of Manning Avenue N.

Mahtomedi

• A motorist on Wildwood Road at 12:57 a.m. Oct. 7 was arrested for undisclosed offenses following a traffic stop for expired registration. A noisy motorist on Hilton Trail N. and 72nd Street N. on Oct. 9 was cited for “unreasonably loud exhaust.”

A Minnesota motorist was cited Oct. 9 on Warner Avenue N. for hands-free violation after deputies observed her underway with a phone in her right hand. A fourth motorist was cited for speeding Oct. 9 on Lincolntown Avenue and Dunbar Way.

Mail theft was reported Oct. 9 on Wildwood Road.

• Threats from one juvenile to another were reported Oct. 10 in Woodland Court.

• Echo Lake Court residents on Oct. 9 reported a theft, which came to a satisfactory conclusion after the item was returned.

• A westbound motorist on

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

• Damage to property was reported in the 3400 block of Rolling View Court Oct. 22.

• Tools were stolen from a vehicle in an underground garage in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Oct. 23.

• A Karth Road resident who reported his vehicle stolen Oct. 23 was able to make arrangements for its return and did not want further police involvement.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 3700 block of Highland Avenue Oct. 23.

• A Minneapolis man was cited for theft of groceries in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Oct. 23.

• Officers led a roaming fox out of the White Bear Lake Area High School football stadium Oct. 23.

• Officers responded to a road rage incident in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Oct. 23.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested on outstanding warrants following a verbal dispute in the 4000 block of

Stillwater Road at northbound Warner Avenue N. was cited Oct. 12 for failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for failure to signal a right hand turn. She was verbally warned for the illegal turn and for driving after suspension, after she said she didn’t know her learner’s permit was suspended. The valid male passenger took over the driving duties after the traffic stop.

• Deputies cited a motor vehicle Oct. 13 that was parked in a handicapped parking space on Wildwood Road without a disability certificate. On Oct. 14, deputies cited another vehicle for expired tabs on Century Avenue and Woodland Drive.

• A business in the 3000 block of Century Avenue N. reported receiving counterfeit money Oct. 14.

• Deputies located a person with a warrant at a residence on Warner Avenue N. Oct. 14 after a Keep Our Kops Safe (KOPS) alert was sent out for him, but did not attempt an arrest.

Deputies were on the search again at 7:37 p.m. Oct. 14 in the 3000 block of Century Avenue N. to arrest a male involved in drugs. At 2:13 a.m. Oct. 15, deputies conducting a warrant traffic stop in the 3000 block of Century Avenue arrested the individual.

• Deputies were among three law enforcement agencies that ultimately arrested the driver of a stolen vehicle that passed through their jurisdiction on Century Avenue and Long Lake Road at 11:09 p.m. Oct. 15. Deputies who were assisting the White Bear Police Department in rounding up a fleeing vehicle spotted the vehicle turning southbound on Century Avenue from County Road D without stopping at the red light. When deputies attempted the traffic stop, the vehicle fled into Oakdale using evasive maneuvers. After the vehicle pursuit ended, the occupants fled on foot, but were eventually found and arrested.

Loretta Harding

White Bear Avenue Oct. 23.

• A landlord/tenant dispute was reported in the 2000 block of County Road F Oct. 24.

• A chainsaw was shoplifted from a store in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Oct. 24.

• A shoplifter was cited in the 4700 block of Highway 61 Oct. 24.

• A Minneapolis man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop at White Bear Avenue and Interstate 694 Oct. 24.

• A woman attempted to pass a fake $50 bill in the 4700 block of Highway 61 Oct. 25.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI after officers found him blaring music behind the wheel of a vehicle parked in the 5000 block of Campanaro Lane Oct. 25.

• A St. Paul man was arrested for DWI after being pulled over for driving the wrong way near White Bear Avenue and Beam Avenue Oct. 26.

• A Brooklyn Park man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop at Interstate 694

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• A representative from the U.S. Postal Service on Oct. 14 reported that someone had tried to pry open two mailboxes in the 4300 block of McMenemy Street, resulting in criminal damage to property.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 20, was cited Oct. 16 for a traffic violation in the 4500 block of Bramblewood Avenue.

• A Minneapolis woman, 52, was cited for speeding Oct. 17 at the intersection of I-35E and I-694.

• A St. Paul man reported his rented storage unit in the 3200 block of Highway 61 broken into Oct. 16. Several tools and a drone were stolen.

• An Inver Grove Heights woman reported hit-and-run to her vehicle Oct. 16 at the intersection of Willow Lake Blvd. and City Center Drive.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 29, was arrested Oct. 17 in the 3300 block of Berwood Court W. after he allegedly strangled his girlfriend during an argument.

• A resident in the 800 block of Heritage Court reported her boyfriend for taking some of her property without permission on Oct. 18.

• Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Oct. 20 issued trespass notices to a woman, 33, and a man, 34, after they burst into Papa Murphy’s pizza shop in the 900 block of County Road E and threw a pizza at employees while profanely demanding a new pie with either fewer or more mushrooms on it than the one they rejected. It was hard to tell which, due to all the screaming and yelling, as well as unclear vocabulary.

A mom in the 3500 block of Vadnais Center Drive on Oct. 22 reported being punched in the side of the head by her son, 22.

• A St. Paul woman, 44, and a Brooklyn Park man, 43, were arrested on multiple warrants and for disorderly conduct Oct. 24 after they were found fighting in the parking lot of a business in the 800

and Labore Road Oct. 27.

• Officers responded to a noise disturbance in the 1900 block of Eugene Street Oct. 27.

• Officers mediated a neighbor dispute in the 1300 block of Hedman Way Oct. 27.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Oct. 27.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 3100 block of McKnight Road Oct. 28.

• Check fraud was reported in the 4400 block of Centerville Road Oct. 28. Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 1400 block of Park Street Oct. 28.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested on 15 active warrants following a traffic stop of a vehicle in which she was a passenger in the area of Highway 61 and Cedar Avenue Oct. 28.

• Officers responded to a domestic incident in the 2200 block of Gardenette Drive Oct. 29.

• Harassment was reported in the 1800 block of Cedar

block of County Road E.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 76, was issued a trespass notice Oct. 25 after he was verbally rude to a Target employee in the 900 block of County Road E.

• A St. Paul man, 20, was arrested for DWI in the 3400 block of Rice Street after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a drunk driver at 8:58 p.m. Oct. 25. A St. Paul man, 22, was also arrested for DWI at the same location at 9:18 p.m. Oct. 25, after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a property damage auto accident.

White Bear Township

• A Brooklyn Park man, 37, was mailed a citation for misdemeanor theft Oct. 16 after he was found to have stolen items from Cub Foods in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive. Thanks to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, deputies had an address for the suspect on file.

• RCSO deputies assisted the Maplewood Police Department Oct. 15 in locating a stolen vehicle in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive.

• A Minneapolis woman, 57, was arrested Oct. 18 in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive for shoplifting from the Cub Foods store.

• A White Bear Township man, 73, reported for leaving the Cub Foods store without paying for merchandise Oct. 18, returned to pay after deputies contacted him at home about his forgetting to pay for the items at the automated check-out. A resident in the 2700 block of Selena Circle on Oct. 21 reported receiving bizarre emails from someone she didn’t know that included altered photos of her that were taken off the internet.

• A St. Paul man, 27, was arrested on an outstanding and active misdemeanor warrant Oct. 25 in the 4600 block of Greenhaven Drive.

• A Wisconsin man reported his work truck broken into Oct. 28 while it was parked at a construction site in the 3900 block of White Bear Parkway. Construction tools were stolen. Loretta Harding

Avenue Oct. 30.

• Officers responded to an order for protection violation in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road Oct. 30.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 3700 block of Midland Avenue Oct. 30.

• Officers responded to the 2000 block of Woodlyn Avenue to assist Maplewood officers in locating a drunk driver who was reportedly hitting cones and curbs, and was subsequently arrested

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Bicyclist critically injured after being hit by motorist

A 72-year-old man remains in critical condition at Regions Hospital after being hit by a motorist while riding his bicycle in Ramsey County.

According to the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened Nov. 7 at the intersection of Deer Hills Drive and Centerville Road in North Oaks. Upon arrival, deputies located the bicyclist lying in the road and someone performing CPR on him.

for DWI.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI Oct. 31 after barely being able to perform field sobriety tests following a traffic stop near Cedar Avenue and Van Dyke Street.

• Officers responded to disorderly conduct in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Oct. 31.

• An animal complaint was reported Oct. 31 in the 2000 block of Dotte Drive.

Deputies took over caring for the man before he was transported to the hospital. Authorities have identified the bicyclist as Vincent Grundman, of Maplewood. Grundman is the owner of Flex-Fletch Products.

According to the sheriff’s office, the driver who struck the bicyclist, an 83-year-old North Oaks man, remained at the scene and cooperated. Investigators say alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in the crash. The crash remains under investigation.

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

NOVEMBER 13, 2024 www.presspubs.com

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,

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 DISTRICT COURT ABOVE NAMED

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

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.

V.

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.

X.

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 page 20)

2024 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 33A

Patti Anderson (R)

58.01% (15,260 votes)

Jake Ross (DFL) 41.89% (11,020 votes)

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 36A

Elliott Engen (R)

54.07% (14,999 votes)

Janelle Calhoun (DFL) 45.83% (12,714 votes)

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 36B

Patty Bradway (R)

48.32% (12,061 votes)

Brion Curran (DFL)

51.53% (12,861 votes)

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 41A

Wayne Johnson (R)

50.49% (15,167 votes)

DELLWOOD MAYOR (UNOPPOSED)

Mike McGill

(575 votes)

DELLWOOD CITY COUNCIL Catherine Nicholson

(243 votes) Melissa Peltier

(339 votes)

Lucia Wroblewski (DFL)

49.40% (14,840 votes)

WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOL BOARD

Angela Thompson 22.59% (16,476 votes)

Scott Arcand 18.74% (13,664 votes)

Dan Skaar 16.06% (11,711 votes)

Tim Klecker 15.42% (11,249 votes)

Brian Cern 14.99% (10,933 votes)

R. Scott Smith 11.73% (8,556 votes)

MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD

Stacey Stout 33.82% (5,211 votes)

Kelly Reagan: 33.11% (5,101 votes)

Drew Whitson: 31.84% (4,906 votes)

RAMSEY COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 7

Kelly Miller

(15,437 votes)

Sarah Yang 49.49% (15,409 votes)

BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE MAYOR Mary Wingfield

(288 votes) Jennifer Arsenault

(354 votes) BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE CITY COUNCIL

Ryan Eisele

(372 votes)

Note:

Rylan Juran

(190 votes) Karen Quaday

(274 votes)

GEM LAKE MAYOR (UNOPPOSED) Gretchen Artig-Swomley

(260 votes) GEM LAKE CITY COUNCIL Joshua Patrick

(230 votes)

(217 votes)

Geifer

OF GRANT MAYOR Tom Carr

(1,941 votes)

GRANT CITY COUNCIL

Cremona

(1,911 votes)

Bridget Sperl

(352 votes)

Peter Holstad

(261 votes)

(786 votes)

Benjamin Cornett

(1,363 votes)

Tina Lobin

(1,043 votes)

PINE SPRINGS MAYOR (UNOPPOSED)

Randilynn Christensen

(206 votes)

PINE SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL

Julie Lapos-Kuchar

(181 votes)

Conrad Adams

(187 votes)

VADNAIS HEIGHTS MAYOR (UNOPPOSED)

Mike Krachmer

(4,676 votes)

VADNAIS HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL

Erik Goebel

(3,912 votes)

Jerry Moynagh

(3,464 votes)

2024 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP SEAT A (UNOPPOSED)

Ed Prudhon

97.72% (4,336 votes)

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP SEAT B

Beth Artner

43.50% (2,207 votes)

Tom Riedesel

38.79% (1,968 votes)

Ronald Denn 16.72% (848 votes)

KEY:

WILLERNIE MAYOR (UNOPPOSED)

Diane Baglio 78.26% (198 votes)

WILLERNIE CITY COUNCIL

Andrew DeJong 33.11% (147 votes)

Kristine Cook 29.28% (130 votes)

Dean Flaherty 14.64% (65 votes)

Patrick Miller

12.39% (55 votes)

Donald Regan 8.56% (38 votes)

Note: Bar length is a visual representation only, and not meant to depict the percentages listed with 100% accuracy. The percentages and total votes next to the name of the candidate are correct based on vote count.

PRESIDENTIAL RACE RESULTS

STATE

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

50.88% (1,653,744 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

46.66% (1,516,346 votes)

BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

64.36% (428 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

32.48% (216 votes)

DELLWOOD

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

43.53% (353 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

54.50% (442 votes)

GEM LAKE

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

49.19% (183 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

49.19% (183 votes)

GRANT PRECINCT 1

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

45.37% (878 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

51.83% (1,003 votes)

GRANT PRECINCT 2

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

44.67% (461 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

52.33% (540 votes)

MAHTOMEDI PRECINCT 1

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

55.60% (1,365 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

42.04% (1,031 votes)

MAHTOMEDI PRECINCT 2

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

58.07% (1,688 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

39.04% (1,135 votes)

PINE SPRINGS

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

47.12% (131 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

48.92% (136 votes)

VADNAIS HEGHTS

PRECINCT 1

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

56.42% (931 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

41.03% (677 votes)

VADNAIS HEGHTS

PRECINCT 2

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

59.57% (1,441 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

38.65% (935 votes)

VADNAIS HEGHTS PRECINCT 3

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

55.29% (1,092 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

41.97% (829 votes)

VADNAIS HEGHTS

PRECINCT 4

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

56.50% (1,139 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

41.17% (830 votes)

WHITE BEAR LAKE WARD 1

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

55.94% (1,497 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

42.45% (1,136 votes)

WHITE BEAR LAKE WARD 2

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

58.39% (1,859 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

39.60% (1,261 votes)

WHITE BEAR LAKE WARD 3

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

56.16% (1,563 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

41.25%(1,148 votes)

WHITE BEAR LAKE WARD 4

PRECINCT 1

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

57.19% (1,479 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

40.06% (1,036 votes)

WHITE BEAR LAKE WARD 4

PRECINCT 2

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

59.63% (130 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

36.24% (79 votes)

WHITE BEAR LAKE WARD 5

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

56.62% (1,778 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

41.24% (1,295 votes)

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

PRECINCT 1

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

53.95% (1,497 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

44.25% (1,228 votes)

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP PRECINCT 2

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

53.11% (1,245 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

45.14% (1,058 votes)

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP PRECINCT 3

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

54.08% (431 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

44.29% (353 votes)

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP PRECINCT 4

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

58.79% (712 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

39.80%(482 votes)

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP PRECINCT 5

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

62.19% (324 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

36.28% ( 189 votes)

WILLERNIE

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

49.06% (156 votes)

Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

48.43 (154 votes)

Bode Shipe (10) caught a 47” Muskie on Bald Eagle Lake Nov 1 with help from his uncle, Greg Shipe. He using a live sucker as bait. The Muskie was tagged and info was submitted to the DNR.

Veterans Day Observances

Above: The flight of a bald eagle over Veterans Memorial Park coincided with the beginning of the ceremony.

At left: Daniel Rose, Navy 63-66, Barclay Anderson, Air Force 65-69, Cathy McCormack, Navy 79-99, Art Caselio, Navy 68-70, Jes Crandell, Army National Guard 98-04 and Alice Woodman, Army National Guard 75-76, were among the veterans who

Sweet Martha’s Cookies shipped overseas

Martha Rossini Olson, aka Sweet Martha (right), and Dave Olson (left) were onsite at Rudy’s Redeye Grill baking cookies with help from Rudy’s owner, Bill Foussard.

The aroma of fresh-baked chocolate chunk cookies wafted through Rudy’s Redeye Grill last week when the Rotary Club of White Bear Lake and Rudy’s Redeye Grill teamed up with Sweet Martha’s cookies to ship 60 buckets of cookies to Major Justin Bradshaw and his National Guard unit who are stationed in Kuwait. This is Major Bradshaw’s third deployment abroad.

Rotary volunteers met at Rudy’s to bake and package approximately 800 donated chocolate chip cookies.

“Sweet Martha”, along with her son, Dave, supervised the baking,

Family members helping at the event included Brea

cooling and packing of the cookies. Major Bradshaw’s wife Elizabeth, his brother, Jason Bradshaw, and Jason’s wife Brea also participated.

Fourth grade classmates in Major Bradshaw’s daughter’s class at Otter Lake Elementary School wrote and colored letters thanking the soldiers in the unit. A letter was placed inside each bucket of cookies.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Bradshaw, Jason Bradshaw and Elizabeth Bradshaw.

NAMES IN THE NEWS

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota presented Linda Vukelich of White Bear Lake with the prestigious Special Board Award at its annual conference Nov. 9.

The Special Board Award recognizes an individual who works tirelessly to help build the mental health system that ensures access to care.  Vukelich has supported the MN Psychiatric Society since 1997, the Minnesota Mental Health Community Foundation since 2006 and The Minnesota Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry since 2010. She is also responsible for creating FastTrackerMN, an opensource searchable database that connects individuals, families, mental health & substance use disorder treatment providers, assessors, health care providers, and others with a real-time, searchable directory of mental health and substance use disorder resources and their availability within Minnesota.

Mahtomedi High School’s Ada Thompson (Class of 2026) has been selected for the American Choral Directors’ Association (ACDA) Mixed Honor Choir. Out of more than 5,000 students who auditioned, Thompson is one of only 300 students chosen for the prestigious ensemble. Thompson has an impressive track record in choral music,

Deadline

having been selected for the ninth and 10th Grade Honor Choirs in previous years. In addition to her achievements as a vocalist, she serves as the student assistant director for Zephyr Express, Mahtomedi High School’s a cappella ensemble. Her commitment to music education is also evident in her attendance at a recent conference aimed at inspiring future music educators.

“Ada’s selection for the National Honor Choir is a remarkable achievement that highlights her dedication and talent,” said Chad Garrels, director of choral activities at Mahtomedi High School. “We are incredibly proud of her, and look forward to seeing her shine on this national stage.”

The Honor Choir will rehearse in Dallas, Texas, during the National ACDA Conference on March 20 and 21, for a performance on Saturday, March 22, under the direction of renowned conductor Chris Maunu.

The Bald Eagle Yacht Club recently held its annual awards banquet at the Hugo American Legion. Many awards were presented, including to the following overall champions: Hobies - Ted Jagger; Lasers - Brett Smith; Hobie Waves - Bill Reed; and E-ScowChris Wiberg.

Special awards included: Golden Crew Award, 50 years of crewing - Jan Hohn; Eaglet Award - Kajsa Johnson; Dedicated Crew - Steve Wiberg; and Service to the Club - Evelyn Duvall.

Linda Vukelich

Ada Thompson

Kajsa Johnson receives the inaugural Eaglet Award from Sailing Captain Trevor Taylor. The Eaglet Award recognizes a young sailor in the club who has shown exceptional promise, enthusiasm and dedication to learning the art of sailing.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Officers elected for next season are (from left) Polly and Russell Dedrick (social chairs), Jodey Klein (treasurer), Bart Crockett (sailing captain), Trevor Taylor (vice commodore) and Andrew Jagger (commodore).

Frank Watson

MAHTOMEDI HIGH SCHOOL: Presents Shakespeare’s comedic masterwork

today, and I hope we can portray it well.”

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is the third play that Aflakpi has participated in since he began acting.

On identifying with his role personally, Aflakpi said the process came relatively easily. “The role was chosen for me during the audition process,” said Aflakpi. “To portray it, I would do it just as any other fairy in the play, which would be flowy, light and otherworldly.”

Senior Joy Shadrack, who portrays Helena, one of the four lovers, said she felt best suited to play her role because high schoolers can easily relate to the character’s personality. “I feel like I

“Shakespeare wrote for all of us … he should be seen and heard, not just read,” said Director Dan Joslyn.

Freshman Henry Aflakpi will portray Basil, fairy follower of

identify with her because she’s real,” said Shadrack. “She comes across as really delusional and has a very teenage mentality. You can relate to her just because of

Senior Joy Shadrack, who plays Helena, says that high schoolers can relate to her character because of Helena’s teenage-like mentality.

the season of life she seems to be in.”

Although Shadrack has been acting since childhood, she admitted to not having mastered the “art of acting” until seventh grade, when she acted in a production of the Junie B. Jones book series. Shadrack has performed in multiple different plays since then, such as “12 Angry Jurors,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Mean Girls”.

“I hope people can have a really good laugh when they see this,” said Shadrack. “Even if they don’t understand all the words being said, I hope they can get the gist of it through everyone’s body language, and I hope they laugh a lot.”

But the director and actors aren’t the only ones who regard the play highly. Junior Eve Porter, the assistant stage manager, marveled at

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED Junior Eve Porter is the play’s assistant manager and props director.

how hard the actors have practiced the material. “The actors are doing amazing jobs,” said Porter. “It’s Shakespeare, and it’s hard, but they’ve done so well with it. I think it’s a really awesome show altogether.”

Although Porter has been acting since first grade, she chose to take on her current role because of difficulty finding a balance between acting and production work.

“It’s hard for me to balance sometimes between acting and crew,” said Porter. “But I kind of just go with the flow on that one.”

As assistant stage manager, Porter focuses on helping actors with lines in case they are said incorrectly or forgotten. Additionally, Porter is the props coordinator, where she will work backstage during performances to ensure that

props and other technical aspects of the show run smoothly.

Porter will also be featured in the school’s upcoming one-act play, “Soundscapes,” which will debut next February. The play will focus on a girl with synesthesia, a perceptual phenomenon where the brain causes a person to experience more than one sense simultaneously. The play will also feature Shadrack, although Porter admits she does not yet know if she will be acting in it or reprising her position of assistant stage manager.

Joslyn said he hopes attendees will have a great time watching the play. “I hope the audience comes in a great mood and is ready to see the students and that they’re supportive,” said Joslyn. “Once they sit down, they’re going to laugh and love the show. It’s going to be a fun night!”

The school’s performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 15 and 16 and at 2 p.m. Nov. 17. Tickets can be purchased at www. zephyrfinearts.ludus.com.

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

Local White Bear Lake skater performs in ‘Disney on Ice’

Izzi Gorowsky has been skating since she was 4 years old. While she was growing up, she used to practice skating at the Sports Center in White Bear Lake and at the Parade Ice Garden in Minneapolis. Now, Gorowsky will perform in the upcoming production of “Disney on Ice,” which takes place from Nov. 21 through Nov. 24 at the Xcel Energy Center. Recently, Press Publications sat down with Gorowsky to learn more about her skating career and her involvement in this year’s production of “Disney on Ice.”

Q: Tell us about yourself

A: My name is Izzi Gorowsky, I’m 23 years old and I grew up on Coon Lake in Minnesota. I graduated from Mounds View High School in 2019. I skated at the White Bear Lake Sports Center and Parade Ice Garden in Minneapolis. Some of my other interests include traveling and exploring new cities, and painting and dancing!

Q: How long have you been skating?

A: I started skating when I was 4 years old and took my first glide on the lake I grew up on. My parents keep an outdoor rink every winter. I can’t believe it’s been almost 20 years now!

Q: What made you want to try figure skating?

A: A family tradition during Christmas was to have all my cousins over to skate and play hockey. I joined in and loved it! After that, I went out on the lake to skate as much as I could! One of my very first competitions was the White Bear Lake Holiday Open in 2009.

Q: How long have you been a part of the “Disney on Ice” show?

A: I’ve been with “Disney on Ice” since 2019. Over the past 5 years I’ve had the amazing opportunity to see the world and perform in Australia, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, Spain and Switzerland.

Q: What originally made you want to try out?

A: When I was 6 years old, I went to see my first “Disney on Ice” show. I was so inspired that I would go every year when they came through town. I’ve always enjoyed the artistic side of skating, competing in events called Character

Spotlight, Dramatic and Interpretive. At age 12, I started choreographing all my own programs and the annual spring ice show was the highlight of every year. I’ve always been passionate about performing for an audience!

Q: Who will you play in the show?

A: I’m an ensemble skater, aerialist and understudy for the roles of Belle and Elsa. I’m in the highenergy opening number of our show. I fly up to 30 feet in the air on aerial silks in the “Beauty and the Beast” segment. I’m also featured in the ensemble of “Aladdin” and as a Sea Anemone in “The Little Mermaid.” Our costumes are so unique and vibrant that you won’t be able to miss me out there!

Q: What has been your toughest challenge while performing for Disney?

A: Being away from home for months at a time can be hard, but this makes coming to St. Paul so special! I’m so excited to perform for my family and friends in my hometown!

Q: What part of the show are you most looking forward to?

A: During the “Beauty and the Beast” segment, I fly on the silk carousel. This apparatus is made up of seven aerial silks that we use to perform a team acrobatic routine. Mixing skating with

flying every day is the best part of my show! I love to hear the audience cheer when we are lifted into the air to put on a fabulous dinner party for Belle!

Tickets for “Disney on Ice” can be found online at www. xcelenergycenter.com/events.

Compiled by Madeline Dolby

Vadnais Heights Elementary recognizes Lyla Brush for the

Achievement Award. Lyla is a well rounded student both academically and socially. She is well liked by her peers and she goes above and beyond to include everyone. Lyla is one of the captains of our school patrol and strives to make our school a safe place. She is a self-directed learner who collaborates well with others to learn new things and problem solve. Lyla is a positive role model and her peers know they can count on her in good times and in challenging times. She is a leader who pushes herself and those around her to work to their true potential. Vadnais Heights Elementary celebrates Lyla Brush and her academic success as a White Bear Lake Student.

Rotary Matters wblrotary1@comcast.net Sponsored

Lyla Brush Elementary

ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will be performed at Mahtomedi High School on Nov. 15, 16 and 17.

Titania, Queen of the Fairies.

Izzi Gorowsky

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Izzi (left) and her friend Lexi (right) attend “Disney on Ice” as kids.

Patricia (Gamble) Wilharber

age 86, of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 28, 2024. She will be greatly missed by her spouse, Gerald Wilharber, children, Lisa (Roger) Pfiffner, Patrick (Cindy) Gamble, Kathy (Ty) Walchak, Jennifer (Jeremy) Lloyd and Gerard (LeAnn) Wilharber, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, sister, Mary Jane (Tom) Knutson and brother, Tony (Jean) Verby as well as many other loving family and friends. Pat was the first Senior Citizen Coordinator and developed the Senior Citizen Program in White Bear Lake as well as starting the Meals on Wheels Program. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, November 18th, 11am, with visitation one hour before, lunch to follow at Church of St Pius X, 3878 Highland Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110. Memorials preferred to The Listening House and Sharing and Caring Hands.

Gwen Drummond Floerke

Born 3/10/30 and went to be with the Lord on 10/30/24 peacefully in her sleep.  Preceded in death by husband Cal Floerke, her parents, Stanley and Evelyn Reynolds, brothers, Richard & Stanley John Reynolds, sister Kathryn Nelson and her son, John/ Jay Drummond.  Survived by her sister, Rita Gehrenbeck, daughters, Jody Emslie Drummond (Dennis), Jenifer Drummond. The Floerke family, Sue and Brian Carlson, Bob and Janna Floerke, Deb and Ray Drew and their children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and her loving nieces and nephews.

Donald Earl Hamilton

Cremation Society of Minnesota

Gwen was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, an accomplished businesswoman serving as the executive chamber of commerce director in White Bear Lake for 20 years. Gwen was one of the founders of Eaglebrook church and the oldest member. She loved Jesus with her heart mind and soul. Gwen was the first female Rotarian in the WBL club and a sharp avid cribbage player at The Center and Breath of Life in Brainerd. She loved the Vikings and was a fabulous cook.  Gwen was a faithful friend to all and will be truly missed.  There will be a celebration of her life, Sunday November 17th from noon to 2pm at Dennis Drummond Wine Co. 11919 Thiesse Rd. Brainerd, Mn. 56401. Arrangements have been entrusted with Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.

Age 78, of Hugo, MN passed away on 11/1/24. Don was born on 5/1/46 in Iowa to parents Earl and Esther Hamilton and raised on a farm in South Dakota. He met his wife of 56 years, Constance Waugh, in middle school in White Bear Lake, MN. Don enjoyed woodworking and cars, but his biggest joy was his family. He is survived by wife Connie, children Curtis (Tanya) Hamilton and Sharie (Mike) Howard, grandchildren Braden, Nathan, Ainsley and Madilyn, sister Darlene and brother Allen. A Memorial Service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 4821 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to a charity of your choice.

At Good Samaritan Society – Heritage Place of Roseville, you can relax and enjoy life and we’ll take care of the rest.

Join our friendly independent living community and enjoy new reduced rates, plus your third month free. You’ll also receive $1,500 toward moving expenses.

Offer expires Dec. 31, 2024.

Call (651) 515-2973 for more information.

Obituaries celebrate and honor unique lives.

To Submit an obit Email obits@presspubs.com Call 651-407-1250 Visit us at 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

TENNIS

White Bear Lake had four allconference picks after placing second in the Suburban East with an 8-1 record and going 14-4 overall. They are seniors Ellia Groneberg, Tally Domschot and Elara Kruse and sophomore Martina Chocarro. Honorable mentions went to seniors Maddy Belisle and Isabel St. John and juniors Mallory Peltier, Sophie Menier, and Josie Guidinger. Chocarro, 14-4 at 3-singles, was named MVP. Groneberg was 10-5 at 1-singles and 8-2 in doubles. Domschot was 10-3 at 2-singles and 10-2 in doubles. St. John and Lisa Gritzmacher were 7-0 at 3-doubles.

FOOTBALL

White Bear Lake had five all-district picks after a 3-7 season: seniors Malik Doumbia (outside linebacker), Cam Oxton (center), Matt Hunter (guard), and Levi Arvig (linebacker), and junior Easton Miles (back/ receiver). Honorable mention went to seniors Donovan Morris, Charlie Woodcock, Matt Anderson, Connor Holte and Jerold Wright. Tomi Animasaun completed 112 of 207 passes for 1,488 yards and eight

touchdowns. Ben Lockwood caught 32 for 460 yards (three TD’s), Rithy Sain 21 for 393 (two TD’s), and Miles 32 for 373 (three TD’s), Brian White carried 67 times for 401 yards, Porter Cleary 99 for 321 (five TD’s) and Animasaun 83 for 226. Ernest Goodwin was 5-for-9 on field goals (two from 50 yards) and 15-for-17 on extra points. Top three in defensive points were Arvig (67 tackles, 12 for loss, three forced fumbles), Doumbia (54 tackles, 11 for loss, four QB sacks), and Woodcock (52 tackles, 11 for loss, eight QB hurries).

GIRLS HOCKEY

White Bear Lake opened with a 6-4 win over Mounds View/ Irondale at home with goals by Madelyn Lee (two), Talia Domschot, Paige Downey, Lily Howard and Grace Bailey, with assists by Domschot (two), Downey, Howard and Carlie Griffin. The Bears took a 6-3 lead with three goals in a span of 2:40 early in the third period by Bailey, Lee and Downey. Bear goalie Macy Marston stopped 27 of 31 shots.

State soccer honors for Bear trio; 6 make all-SEC

Three White Bear Lake girls soccer seniors were named to all-state teams and six were named all-conference after the Bears’ 14-1-2 season that ended with a crucial injury and one win short of the state tournament.

Jenna Maloy was named Class 3A Miss Soccer and Pioneer Press East Metro Player of the Year. Maloy, Becca Smith and Abby O’Brien repeated as coaches association all-state picks, each placed on the

first team for Class 3A. All three were among 25 named all-state for all classes by the Minnesota Star Tribune. Maloy is signed by South Dakota State, Smith by University of Kansas and O’Brien by Northern Iowa. Named to all-SEC were those three, sophomore mid Ellyse Oelker, junior defender Maddy Thompson and sophomore mid Kelsey Wolfe. Getting honorable mentions were seniors Navaya McCorkle and Alyssa Hamlin and junior goalie Chloe Tocko. The Bears were Suburban East champions and top-ranked in the state. After Maloy suffered a foot injury in the last game before playoffs, the Bears lost to No. 4 ranked East Ridge 3-2 in the section finals. Maloy tallied 28 goals this year and a school record 73 in her career along with 26 assists. Smith had 12 goals and 11 assists this year, and 37 and 43 in her career. O’Brien led a defensive unit that allowed only 14 goals in 17 games. Tocko posted an .870 save percentage and 0.76 goals-againstaverage.

Bruce Strand

Athletes take ‘championship walk’ at Wildwood Elementary

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Kaili Malvey

Mahtomedi Volleyball

Kaili Malvey, Mahtomedi’s soaring, 5-foot-11 outside hitter, was a big factor in the Zephyrs winning two of three state matches to place fifth in Class 3A. Malvey generated 44 kills in 95 attempts with just 13 errors and made the alltournament team. The third-year starter worked hard on attacking with Zephyr coaches for her senior season. “I hated getting blocked and dug, and I wanted to do everything I could to prevent that,” said Malvey. She added a volleyball state medal to those she’s earned in track for sixth place in long jump and seventh in high jump.

Kaili Malvey

CONTRIBUTED

Becca Smith, Jenna Maloy and Abby O’Brien posed at the coaches association all-state banquet.

Bruce Strand

Paige Downey launched a shot that found the net for the Bears.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Enter your holiday lights for a chance to win!

Deadline to enter is noon on Tuesday, Dec. 11.

Please email photos of your display, an address and any relevant information to marketing@presspubs.com or submit online at presspubs.com/holidaylights.

Readers will vote for the best light display Dec. 12 through Dec. 31. The winners will be announced in January. Winners will receive a local gift card.

Enter holiday lights at presspubs.com/holidaylights

Eat Local

Red Luna

Taco Factory

Authentic Mexican 5960 Hwy 61 North, White Bear Lake Carbones

Pizzeria & Pub

Pizza, Burgers, Pastas, Hot Hoagies, Wraps, Soup & Salads

Rudy’s Redeye Grill

Upscale Steakhouse, Pan Fried Walley, Drunk ‘N Dirty Pork Chops, Bull Bites and Martinis

Red Luna

Seasons

552 Lincoln Drive, East Bethel 651-464-6046

Authentic Mexican 114 Mahtomedi Ave Mahtomedi Smokeys

Craft smoked meats, classic Memphis style BBQ & comfort food since 2012

552 Lincoln Drive, East Bethel

Study abroad opportunities for high school students

Qualified high school students are offered a unique opportunity to explore the world by spending an academic year, semester or summer in Europe, Asia, North or South America, Australia or South Africa as part of the ASSE International Student Exchange Program.

Students 15 to 18 years old qualify based on academic performance, character references and a genuine desire to experience life abroad with a volunteer host family. Prior knowledge of the host country’s language is not a requirement. Scholarships are available and are based on academic performance, leadership skills and financial need. Families abroad are carefully screened, and students do not need to know the language of the host

country prior to departure but will acquire the language skills through experiencing the day-to-day local culture and attending regular high school classes along with their new teenage friends.

ASSE also provides the experience of a lifetime to American families who are interested in hosting an international student from Spain, Italy, Germany, Ukraine, Thailand, Japan and many other countries. These exceptional young students will attend the local American high school for an academic year or semester. Students or families interested in learning more about becoming an ASSE exchange student or host family should contact ASSE at 1-800-736-1760, visit www.asse.com or send an email to asseusamidwest@asse.com.

CHURCH BRIEFS

Church hosts ‘Let’s Give Party’ First Presbyterian Church in White Bear Lake is making a party of giving to those in need for the holidays. The “Lets’ Give Party” at 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 24, is an opportunity for anyone in the community who wants to make a difference to drop off donations and participate in family-friendly activities.

The church is requesting the following items to donate to local organizations:

• Gently used shoes to donate to Soles for Souls.

• New or gently used coats, hats and mittens to be donated to The Closet, a program operated by the White Bear Lake Educational Foundation.

• New household items for residents at Solid Ground including: laundry detergent, dish soap and shower cleaner (purchase together); toilet paper, paper towels and tissues (purchase together); food storage containers, mops, brooms, coffee pots, microwaves and pillows.

• Donations for families served by NAMI, including new or gently used: socks, gloves, fidgets, puzzles, card games, cards, journals, colored pencils, markers, pens, games for teen boys, wordfind and crossword books, origami paper and instruction kits, and adult coloring books.

• Monetary donations for the White Bear Area Food Shelf.

Participants can drop off donations and make a cleaning supply kit or

paper products kit, put together snack packs, make a take-home ornament, hang mittens and hats on the mitten tree, tie donated shoes together, and write notes of encouragement.

First Presbyterian Church is located at 4821 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake. The event will take place in Fellowship Hall, and treats will be served. For more information, contact the church office at 651-429-3381.

Redeemer Primetime hosts

Native American author

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Redeemer Lutheran Church is bringing in a popular author for its Redeemer Primetime event on Thursday, Nov. 21.

Marcie Rendon, author of the Cash Blackbear series, has launched her new novel about missing Native women, “Where they Last Saw Her.” Rendon will talk about her relationship with crime fiction, her work with people in correctional facilities, and the intersection of corrections, trauma, art and healing. Copies of her books will be available for purchase.

The event begins with coffee served at 9:30 a.m. followed by devotions and the program at 10 a.m. Registration is requested by Nov. 17 at the Redeemer Welcome Center, or by calling the office at 651-429-5411. The church is located at 3770 Bellaire Ave., White Bear Lake.

Make blankets, quilts for families in need

Join volunteers at First Presbyterian Church of White Bear Lake for a day of making polar fleece blankets and tying quilts to donate to families living at Solid Ground in White Bear Lake and the Marie Sandvik Center in Minneapolis. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. Materials are provided, but donations of fabric are appreciated. Each blanket requires 2 6-foot lengths

of polar fleece material; fabrics for quilts, waterproof fabrics, and old blankets to use as quilt liners are also needed. Donated items may be brought the day of the event or dropped off at the church prior to Nov. 23.

First Presbyterian Church is located at the corner of Fifth Street and Bloom Avenue. Call the office at 651-429-3381 with questions, or email office@fpcwbl.org.

BUSINESS BRIEF

Menards hosts toy drive, ‘Enchanted Forest’ Menards home improvement stores will serve as a toy drive site through the end of November. Participating stores will have a drop box near the exit door to collect new and unwrapped presents. Experience the magic of Christmas

by visiting the “Enchanted Forest,” a growing tradition in the Midwest for more than 50 years, at Menards. Children of all ages will be fascinated by the decorated trees, colorful lights, displays and Christmas décor that make up the forest.

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.

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Drop off new, unwrapped toys at participating Menards stores through the end of the month.