White Bear Press

VFW’s doors stay open during extensive remodel

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

A major remodel is underway at VFW Post 1782.

When it’s done, patrons and members will find an ADA-compliant entryway and restrooms, an expanded menu thanks to a larger, more efficient kitchen, and comfy seating for diners waiting for a patio table.

The redesign emphasizes three goals: improving flow, accessibility and acoustics.

Sound mitigation is an important part of the project, noted Post Commander Bob Krominga. That piece of the project, which involves special felt ceiling tiles, is being facilitated thanks to a generous donation from a North Oaks couple.

The late Lorraine Levandowski, a VFW auxiliary member, enjoyed coming to the post for lunch with her husband Richard. She had a pet peeve, though, about the noise, and had difficulty hearing conversations.

It was her wish that the project include an acoustics component for a better dining experience.

“Lorraine wanted to make a difference,” said Deb Courts-Brown, auxiliary president and member of the design team. “Their generosity helped make this remodel happen. We can do more things now than were originally planned.”

Those things, as mentioned, include an

is the earliest ice-out on record. It was possibly also the shortest season ever for ice on the lake. As previously reported by the Press, White Bear Lake didn’t freeze over until Jan. 18, 2024. The official dates of ice-in and ice-out for the season were called by Mike Parenteau along with his trusted helpers: Nick Temali, Meredith Walburg, John Redpath, Mark Edwards, Ray Caturia, Gene Altstatt and Chris Churchill.

Residents voice support, concerns at open house

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

“The change in plan for Third Street is good!”

“This parking area needs more green trees!”

“This plan will hurt businesses!”

These were among the many voices expressing both worry and support at White Bear City Hall, where the city held an open house to discuss a mobility and parking study conducted in the summer of 2023. City staff counted the number of public and businessrelated parking spaces around

the downtown area to address concerns about parking demand and availability of parking spaces at different times of day.

The study determined there is no current need for more parking structures or lots. However, the city devised several potential strategies to increase pedestrian safety, ease traffic congestion and distribute parking demand more thoroughly throughout downtown.

When the city’s steering committee initially reviewed development plans, one suggestion put forward was to remodel a public walkway from

Clark Avenue to Second Street. However, this would have resulted in the loss of 60 parking spaces, which led to an outcry from residents.

“We frequent downtown a lot,” said resident Connie Goneau. “It’s hard to find a spot with parking, and that amount (of parking) being removed is ridiculous.”

After review, the city modified its suggestion. Its new plan will only remove a few spaces and expand the walkway along Clark Street

“We’re continuing to look at

other opportunities throughout the downtown area,” said Director of Public Works Paul Kauppi. Kauppi noted that one potential strategy to alleviate this would involve adding 20 to 25 new spaces next to Frattallone’s Hardware & Garden and the White Bear Armory. Cook Avenue alongside the Armory could be widened to add more on-street parking adjacent to the building.

The city is also planning further modifications around Third Street. Project Manager and Senior Planner

Mark Nolan noted that residents had concerns that the city’s plans to remodel the street might harm its appearance. Still, he stressed that addressing public safety concerns must be of greater importance. “We can’t necessarily fit in everything here that people want,” Nolan said, “but we’re doing our best.”

The safety concerns in question regard northbound and southbound turn lanes from Highway 61 onto Third Street. Nolan said the city has observed that traffic using these turn lanes is often going too fast, and there are no traffic signals or signs warning

vehicles to slow down. He said a proposal would be to divert traffic from Highway 61 to Second and Fourth Streets, where signs and signals can do a better job of guiding vehicles.

The city plans to widen parking spaces in these areas. Nolan said the spaces need to be bigger to accommodate larger vehicles, such as commercial and noncommercial trucks.

One voice of approval came from Kim Schoonover, a former city steering committee member and owner of Indulge Salon and Spa on Third Street. “I came here tonight to support this

project,” Schoonover said. “One of their goals is to make the downtown more pedestrian-friendly, and I feel it’s being accomplished.”

For information and graphics of the potential design concepts, visit the project website at whitebearlake. org/engineering/project/downtownmobility-and-parking-study.

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

Northern Lights art exhibition shines loud and proud

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

The Northern Lights Juried Art Exhibition is currently underway in its 50th year at White Bear Lake Center for the Arts through Mar. 29.

“I’m proud we can offer something that has evolved into a reflection of both community members and emerging artists from all around Minnesota,” said Creative Services Director Sara Nephew. “The stories that people tell through their art are remarkable.”

The center held a reception and awards ceremony on the evening of Feb. 29. Out of 362 artists who applied to the exhibition, 93 were selected, and 101 art pieces were chosen for display. The jury panel awarded Kristine Hinrichs, a Milwaukee-based photographer, the Best In Show Award for her work, “Women Walking.”

One such artist whose work is featured is George Moore, a Woodbury-based sculptor. Moore has submitted his work to every Northern Lights Exhibition since its inception, and has been accepted 35 times. His work, “Shot Putter,” is featured at the 50thanniversary show and remains on display with the rest of the art.

The current panel of judges

for the exhibition includes Neil Johnston, Helen Otterson and Amy Wilderson. The accepted pieces, which include various art mediums, remain displayed in the center’s Ford Family Gallery. They include photographs, sculptures, sketch drawings, fiber arts and paintings.

“I hope that people can see the artist within every one of us, including themselves,” Nephew said.

The Northern Lights show started as a collaboration between

the White Bear Arts Council and the Lakewood Community Council shortly after the center opened its doors in 1974. Frank Zeller, a White Bear Arts Council member, was the critical figure in putting the show together. Zeller cited a desire to showcase artists from diverse creative practices in Minnesota and neighboring states.

“We’re most excited for the future of the Northern Lights,” Nephew said. “We look forward to another 50 years of celebrating artists’ work.”

The Northern Lights exhibition will be on display at White Bear Lake Center for the Arts until March 29.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Call for student artists

The Marketfest committee is seeking entries of original artwork for the 2024 Marketfest promotional poster and T-shirts.

Participants must be K-12 students who attend a school in the White Bear Lake Area School District or who reside within district boundaries.

Submissions are due Wednesday, April 1. The

winner will be notified in May and will receive $100, recognition in the White Bear Press, a poster and a T-shirt. Submission forms can be downloaded at marketfestwbl.com/ artwork.

Volunteer for Manitou Days committee

Interested volunteers are invited to attend the next planning meeting for the Manitou Days

community festival on Friday, March 22nd at 11 a.m. at Boat Works Commons. For more information, contact 2024 Manitou Days Chairman Paul Carlson at manitoudays.com.

The

Sunshine Week

SPublisher’s View

Carter Johnson

unshine Week was created by the American Society of Newspaper Editors (now News Leaders Association) in 2005 to help shine light on the importance of transparency in government and public records. Does anyone think government should report on itself? Since our country’s beginning newspapers have been the primary source that holds our government and elected officials at all levels accountable. Our founding fathers wanted it that way. Over the years in some communities I’ve worked in, elected officials have wanted to launch initiatives to do away with public notices, or to report meeting proceedings on their own city websites. Keep in mind our reporters are often the only outside person sitting in a city council or school board meeting. In these times where misinformation on the internet is running rampant, our journalists remain dedicated to showing up and reporting.

Winter sports wrap-up

What a great season it has been for many of our local high school teams and individual athletes who just wrapped up post-season play, and for the local hockey teams who made it to the state tournament. Press Publications had a presence at nearly all of the games and tournaments. We thank our sports writer, Bruce Strand, for his reporting during both the regular and post-season. Bruce also coordinated several parents and photographers to cover local teams and capture key moments at the state tournament.

We loved watching the action. Many years ago a staff member wrote on a suggestion card that we should get a TV in the building so everyone can watch these types of events or other breaking news. Last week our lunchroom was full of excitement as staff joined in at different times to catch the Bears, Zephyrs and Cougars battle on the ice. One game was especially fun for me as I watched some of the high school kids we know play against a team that included the twin sons of my own high school teammate and friend. We have received numerous story leads lately about former friends and teammates whose children are now friends and teammates (or opponents), and we look forward to sharing those stories.

High school athletics in our area has been impressive. Over the years the Press has reported on local athletes who have gone on to play professionally in hockey, wrestling and baseball, as well as elite athletes in skiing, golf, and sailing, and other disciplines, with some making it to national and world championships and the Olympics. At the youth and college level, the accomplishments by hometown athletes are too numerous to name in this column.

What lights the spark? In a recent meeting one of my son’s coaches shared a pie chart titled “What Makes and Athlete?” About 45% is made up of natural skill and athleticism; another 45% equal parts hard work/effort, attitude/mentality, and preparedness; and the remaining 10% luck. I would add that support is also important. Parents are significant contributors to success as they invest time and energy in getting their kids to practices, traveling leagues, and higher level club teams. Think of the moms and dads who are tying skates at the rink at 6 a.m. on a weekend morning. Coaches are influential, too – my own ski coaches took teams to state and even won. A few continue to be mentors. We all know a majority of high school athletes won’t take sports to the next level. What they will take with them in their next pursuits are discipline, work ethic, competitive spirit, grit, lifelong friendships, teamwork and love for the game. Participation in sports builds life skills and character in athletes at all levels.

Congratulations to all of the state tournament participants on a stellar season, and to all of the athletes who wrapped up their winter seasons.

Carter Johnson is the publisher of Press Publications.

Support local journalism

Sunshine Week is March 1016, and this year, there’s an even greater need for you to get involved.

Sunshine Week annually celebrates freedom of information laws in every state. It also salutes efforts by good government advocates and journalists to use and ensure the effectiveness of those laws to get the information we need as self-governing citizens.

Movers & Shakers

Gene Policinski

The name is a play on the commonsense words spoken more than a century ago by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis, that “Sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants.”

Brandeis’ remark was not made in a court opinion. It was in a 1913 article published in the news magazine Harper’s Weekly. Along with its observations on American culture and events, Harper’s was part of the “muckraking” news era, with journalists holding business and government accountable for corruption, waste and illegal activity.

As a special treat of each Sunshine Week, we get to see current examples of news reporting on behalf of the public, the type of journalism that the nation’s founders had in mind when they adopted strong First Amendment protection for a free press.

Sunshine Week was started in 2005 by the American Society of

•

•

News Editors.

Each year, we celebrate the thousands of local, state and national print, TV, radio and online reports that tell us what the government or others are doing and how they are doing it; reports that explore and expose otherwiseunseen information we need to know to make good decisions at the ballot box, when petitioning for change or simply things we should know about our communities.

But this year as we celebrate the work being done on behalf of democracy, there is an increasingly needed partner in that work: You and your support for local journalists.

The number of journalists continues to plummet, from more than 75,000 newsroom jobs in 2005 to 31,860 in 2022, according to the Medill Local News Initiative. Far too many of us now live in “news deserts,” areas across the nation where not a single news outlet exists. Medill reported that in 2023, that out of 3,143 counties nationwide, 204 counties had no newspapers, local digital sites, public radio newsrooms or ethnic publications, and another 228 counties were at substantial risk of losing all local news media.

Even where there are established news media outlets, economic pressures have resulted in staff cuts that mean there is less coverage of local government institutions like the city council, school board and local courts.

We need to face the fact that there just aren’t enough journalists to do the job of monitoring and reporting on government, business and others.

Student-operated news media at several universities are

not guaranteed publication.

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

reporting on their communities as well as their campuses. Student journalists are sometimes providing the only full-time reporting in some communities.

Let’s turn again to Brandeis, who according to an article by the Sunlight Foundation in 2009, said in that Harper’s article, “The individual citizen must in some way collect and spread the information” through civic groups and the press, which he believed would lead to “remedial action.”

This does not necessarily mean filing a Freedom of Information request. There are ways to help hold government accountable beyond this direct action.

Whether you are red or blue, progressive or conservative, Democrat, Republican or independent, you need to support those who do that investigative work on a daily basis.

Get behind and get engaged with those who use FOI laws and shoe-leather journalism to bring you the facts required for real self-governance. Take that that information and make up your own minds about the concerns of the day where you live – and perhaps give the national pundit class a rest.

Open your eyes, your minds –and, yes, perhaps your wallets too –and bring a little sunlight into your life. Celebrate Sunshine Week. Justice Brandeis would be pleased, and you and your fellow citizens will be better off for the effort.

Gene Policinski is a veteran multimedia journalist and First Amendment advocate. He is one of the founding editors of USA TODAY and is senior fellow for the First Amendment at Freedom Forum.

• 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.

PLASTICS AND CLIMATE ACTION

When: 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesday, March

13; 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, March 14

Where: Zoom

Details: League of Women VotersWhite Bear Lake Area sponsors presentation with experts on the topic of increasing use of plastics and how it is accelerating climate change, recycling effectiveness and solutions to pollution. Free and open to the public. Register to get link.

Contact: lwv-wbla.org

NORTH SUBURBAN NEIGHBORS CLUB

SPRING COFFEE

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, March

14

Where: Shoreview Community Center, Fireside Lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N.

Details: NSNC, a non-profit friendship organization for older women in the northern suburbs, invites prospective members to learn about their daytime activities.

Contact: 612-616-6142 or 651-638-9849

RAINGARDENS 101

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, March 14

Where: Gem Lake Heritage Hall, 4200

Otter Lake Rd.

Details: Learn about raingardens, if they are a good fit, planning and maintenange strategies, and how to fund projects. Free with registration.

Contact: 651-204-6070 or vlawmo.org/ events

VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD PROGRAM

When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, March 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.

SAP TO SYRUP

When: Noon-2:30 p.m. March 16 & 23

Where: Tamarack Nature Center, White Bear Township

Details: Tap maple trees, boil sap, enjoy maple crafts and treats, and take a self-guided tour. All ages. Registration required.

Contact: ramseycounty.us/residents/parks-recreation/tamarack-naturecenter

Contact: 612-245-9259 or cityvadnaisheights.com/foodshelf

CAREER & TECHNICAL COLLEGE FAIR

When: 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 19

Where: Centennial High School West

Gym

Details: Exhibitors include representatives from community colleges, technical colleges, apprentice programs, trade unions, military and community experts representing technical careers. All area students invited to attend.

PURPLE LINE BRT COMMUNITY MEETING

When: 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 20

Where: Maplewood YMCA Community Center, 2100 White Bear Ave.

Details: Drop-in meeting to review the design options for the METRO Purple Line Bus Rapid Transit Project and provide feedback.

Contact: metrotransit.org/purple-linepublic-engagement

COMMUNITY LUNCH

When: noon-1 p.m. Thursday, March 21

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center

Details: Lunch, conversation, and live entertainment by the Ukulele Bears. Registration deadline March 18 at noon. Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com

WILDWOOD LIONS CLUB FOUNDATION

39TH ANNUAL SPORTSMEN’S DINNER

When: 6 p.m. Thursday, March 21

Where: Lake Elmo Inn Event Center, 3712 Layton Ave. N.

Details:  Enjoy a buffet dinner of fish and wild game.  Fabulous door prizes, games and silent auction. Proceeds support local charities.

Contact: kmurphy630@gmail.com for tickets

FIVE WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT LGBTQ+ YOUTH IN YOUR LIFE

When: 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, March 21

Where: Parkview United Church of Christ, 3737 Bellaire Ave., White Bear Lake

Details:  Workshop is for parents, grandparents, caregivers, educators, and anyone who loves or works with kids who are on a journey to support and undertand LGBTQ+ kids. Register online.

Contact: drmsky.us/5waysregister

EASTER FESTIVAL AND EGG HUNT

When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, March

23

Where: South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church, 2480 South Shore Blvd., White Bear Lake

Details: Free family event with indoor mini golf, Bingo, egg hunt, crafts and other games.

Contact: sstwbl.org

A BILLY JOEL STATE OF MIND

When: 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March

23

Where: Hanifl Performaing Arts

Center, White Bear Lake

Details: Mick Sterling leads a tribute concert featuring the hits of Billy Joel. Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

Lake level ‘up and down’ this winter

The effect of the wimpy winter on the level of White Bear Lake is yet to be seen, but one thing is clear: Elevation has not changed by more than an inch or two the last few months and is holding its own above 922 feet.

Last week, pre-press time, the DNR’s raw data recorder near the Manitou Bridge reported a lake level of 922.17 feet. In late February, level was 922.22. A year ago, the lake fluctuated around 922.89 feet in early March.

“It’s been up and down all winter,” said Mike Parenteau, White Bear Lake Conservation District board member and

the official declarer of ice out, “but never below 922 feet.”

Speaking of ice out, the March 8 date set a new record in 2024.

In the 96 years of recording ice-out dates, the earliest was reported March 16 in 2016. The latest recorded date for open water is May 4, which occurred twice, in 1950 and 2018. Last year, ice out was April 18.

As a side note, the protective elevation for White Bear Lake, set by the DNR in 2016, is 922.0 feet. The protective level assists the agency in managing groundwater appropriations. It is a water level at or before which the DNR will work

with municipal permit holders to modify their water use, i.e., restrict residential irrigation, in order to reduce the likelihood the lake will fall below 922 feet for an extended time.

The elevation of White Bear Lake has historically ranged from a low point of 918.84 feet in 2013 to a high point of 926.7 feet in 1943—a large range of 8 feet. For those who are interested, current lake level is updated online daily by the Minnesota DNR.

To see the current lake level, go to www.dnr.state.mn.us/waters/csg/site. html?id=82016700

Debra Neutkens

Kathy Meyer Pittelko Vadnais Heights

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Court named for winner who can’t be beat

the court these kids helped to unite our school and our community.”

From 1999 to 2023, Galvin ran Bear Down youth basketball summer camps for kindergarten through second grade. Assistant Superintendent Tim Wald said, “The focus in these camps was not only developing fundamental skills, but also on learning concepts of fair play, being a good teammate and caring for your community.

WHITE BEAR SCHOOL BOARD NOTES

• The school board is recognizing students who have accomplished conference, state and national achievements in music, cheer team and gymnastics. To view the full video, visit youtube. com/@ISD624.

• Various school board policy updates— dealing with religion, advertisement and visitors—were passed with no comment.

Board Member

Christina Streiff Oji asked for particular actions the district could take, but Olsen said that it was too early to give specifics. “This is coming from a place of historic and generational trauma,” Olsen explained. “We want to make sure educators have the tools to deal with these situations as they arise.”

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

This fall, when the White Bear Lake Unified High School opens its doors, students, athletes and fans will pass through the building’s breathtaking, renovated gymnasium, now officially called “Galvin Court,” named after the area’s legendary basketball coach and tireless math teacher, Jim Galvin.

Galvin began teaching math in White Bear in 1970, retired in 1999 and continued substitute teaching until 2020. He served as assistant football coach for the Bears from 1970 to 1981, and helped shepherd the 1976 team, which clinched the state championship title in an overtime game. Galvin’s most recognized role, however, was as head coach of varsity boys’ basketball from 1983 to 1999.

Galvin’s teams won five consecutive conference championships and made three state appearances. His ’84 and

’85 teams were back-to-back undefeated state champions—a feat only done once before and never since—netting 52 consecutive wins.

At a recent school board meeting in which members unanimously voted to approve the name “Galvin Court,” superintendent Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak recalled, “I was talking with Dr. Ted Blaesing not that long ago and Ted told a story about superintendent Cunio, of that time of 1984. Jim Galvin saved (Cunio’s) job. In the community, it was a rough time … when the schools came together, North and South Campus were created. You know, not everyone was happy with changes. That team brought the community together.”

“It was a pretty stressful decision at the time. Many people were upset,” Galvin noted, “but the community was lucky to have these kids. They were good citizens, good athletes. Because of the way these kids were, on and off

“Jim would say, ‘If you see some trash, just pick it up. It’s all of our responsibility.’” Wald said that Galvin cultivated this legacy of community in “generations of youngsters throughout our community.”

Wald concluded, “His kindness. That’s Jim’s legacy.”

Galvin told the school board, “I’ve been working with White Bear basketball for the last 54 years, and I loved it. I was lucky throughout the years because of the people I got to know and work with.”

The timing of this honor is not lost on Galvin. His name will once again be associated with bringing the community together. “With the unified high school, the rehabbed court will bear my name,” Galvin stated, “I really am a lucky guy. I’ve always had good kids and good people to work with. Thank you again.”

In parting words of wisdom, Galvin offered, “Now that we are entering March Madness, remember that orange is a winner, and black can’t be beat.”

Board Member Marge Newmaster, however, requested that the library materials policy be pulled for closer inspection. The board allowed the request and will bring the specific policy back up for discussion at a later date.

• The American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC), as per its yearly mandate, voted as to whether ISD 624 had followed Minnesota statutes in meeting the needs of American Indian students. AIPAC was split on this issue and narrowly voted “nonconcurrence,” meaning the school district had not fulfilled its duty.

“Overall, we have a good thing going. We have a committed board, staff and meetings,” AIPAC member Dennis Olsen said, “but in discussion, attendees shared individual parent and child experiences that were disturbing.”

• Assistant Superintendent

Tim Wald relayed that the district had accepted bids for the following repairs and updates:

• Vadnais Heights Elementary will receive a partial roof replacement covering the north and northeast sections.

Contractor BL Dalsin submitted the low bid of $633,317. “They’ve done some work for the district, most recently for Otter Lake Elementary,” explained Wald. “They are a quality contractor.” There is no word yet on when the work is expected to begin.

Sunrise Park Middle School, as it transitions to Sunrise Park District Center, will have its technology systems renovated and updated to match the building’s new function. ISD 624 accepted a bid from Advanced Systems Integration LLC for $618,544.

Logan Gion

CONTRIBUTED

School Board members congratulate Jim Galvin (center) following a vote to name the gym at White Bear Lake Unified High School after him. Pictured (from left) are: Superintendent Wayne Kazmierczak, Scott Arcand, Jessica Ellison, Galvin, Christina Streiff Oji, Marge Newmaster, and Kathleen Daniels.

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

Vadnais Heights

• A St. Paul man, 26, was arrested Feb. 12 for second-degree assault, domestic assault and threats of violence in the 4300 block of Buckingham Court after he got drunk and chased his girlfriend around the house with a knife. He had been watching his favorite soccer team play on television.

• A resident in the 600 block of Liberty Way on Feb. 13 reported that someone broke into the community mailbox and stole envelopes, packages and even the advertisements.

• A Mendota Heights man reported a package stolen Feb. 13 from the 600 block of County Road D.

• In more mail theft news, a resident in the 4500 block of Bramblewood Avenue on Feb. 14 reported that someone in a white SUV stopped at her mailbox and stole her mail. A Minneapolis woman, 44, was arrested on an active motor vehicle theft warrant Feb. 14 after she called 911 to report that she needed medical attention. When deputies responded to her call in the 700 block of Berwood Avenue West, they found her to be heavily intoxicated and assisted emergency medical services personnel in transporting her to the hospital. She was treated at the hospital, then transported to jail and booked.

• A St. Paul Park man reported that someone stole his son’s ear buds while he was at school in the 100 block of Vadnais Blvd. on picture day Feb. 14.

• A resident in the 900 block of Heritage Court W. on Feb. 15

reported receiving a bill for a Verizon account that she did not open.

Employees at Luther White Bear Acura on Feb. 16 reported two vehicles stolen from their lot in the 3500 block of Highway 61. A Keep Our Kops Safe (KOPS) alert was issued for a green 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer and a black 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer. Both vehicles were entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database as stolen.

• Deputies working an off-duty assignment reported finding a wallet belonging to a Middletown, Connecticut, woman in the 1100 block of County Road E on Feb. 16.

• The manager of a grocery store in the 900 block of County Road E on Feb. 17 reported that two men entered the store, loaded meat into a shopping cart and hightailed it past all points of purchase and out of the store without paying for any of it..

White Bear Township

• A resident in the 5300 block of Barry Lane on Feb. 12 reported that someone had hacked his Subway account and used his gift cards to order more than $38 worth of sandwiches.

• A Maplewood man, 27, was trespassed Feb. 13 from a business in the 5000 block of Centerville Road that had terminated his employment several weeks earlier. For reasons known only to the suspect, he kept returning to his former place of employment to cause disruptions.

• The manager of a liquor store in the 5900 block of Highway 61 on Feb. 15 reported that a male swiped a bottle of Svedka vodka off the counter and stuffed it down his pants before making a break for the door and disappearing into the twilight.

VADNAIS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL NOTES

• The City Council approved the purchase of an F-250 Super Duty Cab truck. It will be used as a service vehicle for utility maintenance around Vadnais Heights. The council also approved an additional purchase for a service body on the vehicle. This body will allow staff to securely carry all tools, locators and supplies required for daily operations. Additional work lights are also provided, which will add safety for crews responding to after-hours emergencies.

The council approved a proposal from Solid Rock Construction to replace the skylights in the main event room at the Vadnais Heights Commons. Although Solid Rock has made several past attempts at repairs, contractors agree that a full remodeling must be done. The proposal includes replacing the skylights with Kalwall-brand light panels, which are lighter weight and less expensive than the current kind. The Kalwall light panels will

also spread light inside the room rather than having them directly shine through, reducing the potential for hot spots and glare.

• The city is asking for community feedback on a new parks and trail system plan, currently in Phase 1 of development. The plan will include park improvements, trail connections and new programming recommendations. Citizens are encouraged to take their survey online at cityvadnaisheights.com/ ParkPlan, which will remain open until March 15.

• The city will host a community blood drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 13 at the Vadnais Heights Commons. Register online at redcrossblood.org or by calling the Red Cross’ official number at 1-800-733-2767. Those with questions can contact Katie Everett at 651-204-6000 or by email at katie. everett@cityvadnaisheights.com.

MAHTOMEDI CITY COUNCIL NOTES

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Deputies Corneia and Piper provided the agency’s regular update. Two motor vehicles in the city have been stolen since the last report, Corneia said, but scam calls remain the main focus of concern. An elderly resident was scammed out of thousands of dollars by a person posing as a federal agent. A red flag for everyone to note is that no government agency would ever demand payment by gift card or bitcoin, he said. Speeding along Lincolntown and Long Lake Road also remains an issue, and deputies will be on stationary patrol along these thoroughfares. Motorists are asked to watch for pedestrians crossing the streets to get to the Southwest Park ballfields and Aaron’s Playground. Look for the monthly WCSO newletter at the city website www. ci.mahtomedi.mn.us by using the site map and scrolling down. The February newsletter includes the names of the deputies currently contracted out to the city.

• Mahtomedi Fire Department Chief Terry Fischer noted that the department responded to more than 1100 calls during the past year with 11 paid on-call personnel and seven full-time staff. Hopefully, three people will be on duty at the station during the day, and a new medic has now come on board, he said.

• The city accepted a $40,000 grant from Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) which helps cities work with private property owners to repair their sanitary sewer service lines in aid of reducing inflow and infiltration. The city will develop a policy detailing the criteria for grant eligibility and amount of reimbursement available to property owners.

• Mahtomedi has received a $125,000 Shade Tree Bonding Grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, which is to be utilized from February 2024 through January 2028.

• This summer, the city will paint Water Tower #1 by the high school. When this tower is out of service, the city will need to run the water system on pressure control. However, the chemical feed pumps and chlorine injection system need to be adjusted according to the pressure supplied from the well pumps, which will vary depending on demand.

Approved the 2024 Street Sweeping contract with B. F. Lauzon Enterprises, Inc. who quoted work at $100/hour.

• The city has now sold its property on Bevins Lane acquired through tax forfeit in 1985 to Prelude Holdings, LLC for $418,500. The city received offers from two potential buyers and accepted the highest and best offer.

Construction underway on warehouse storage complex

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

A Vadnais Heights City Councilapproved development plan is in place for a new warehouse and yard complex.

The planned building site sits on the southwest corner of White Bear Parkway and Bibeau Road. It has remained unused for decades, marked simply by a small billboard overlooking I-35E across from Vadanis Heights. The applicant, Kris Birch, has said he intends to utilize the planned warehouse and yard as a storage space for his company, Birch Tree Care.

Since 2020, two different companies have submitted two separate development applications to the City Council. Both were brought forward at different times to build similar warehouses on the site. Although the council approved both applications on different dates, the projects were not pursued.

Birch stressed that his proposed plan for the complex and storage yard would not have complications. The area, which is planned to feature only street parking at this time, will still have space available for future striped stalls. There are no dedicated pedestrian facilities currently located on White Bear Parkway.

The developmental plan shows two driveways, located on the north and south ends of the building, spaced 150 feet

apart. The council determined that both driveways comply with city requirements.

Both Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township plan to enter into a joint powers agreement to provide utility services during the warehouse and yard construction. Birch will also submit a stormwater maintenance and operation plan to the council later.

A timeline is not yet set on when construction will begin on the facility.

CONTRIBUTED

A map of the of the proposed building site for Kris Birch’s warehouse storage facility.

B. Owner’s Right to Reject Bids: Owner reserves the right to reject a Bid which is in any way incomplete or irregular or to waive informalities or irregularities in a Bid received, and accept a Bid, which in the Owner’s judgment is in the Owner’s best interests.

C. Additional Compensation: Contractors shall not receive extra payments for conditions which can be determined by examining the site and the Contract Documents. Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 6 and 13, 2024.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

MINUTES FEBRUARY 12, 2024

Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.

A meeting of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112 at District Center, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1) Acting Chair Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2) Roll Call - Present: Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed, Daniels, Newmaster, Streiff Oji. Absent: Ellison. Ex-Officio: Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak. 3) Pledge of Allegiance. 4) Newmaster moved and Daniels seconded to approve the agenda as presented. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 5) Beloyed moved and Newmaster seconded to approve the consent agenda consisting of: a) Minutes for Board meetings on January 8, 2024, and January 22, 2024; b) Invoices based upon a random sample, all of which met the standards and guidelines as set by the School Board; c) Resolution regarding acceptance of gifts with thank you letters directed to the donors; d) Field trips; and e) Resolution regarding personnel items. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. PUBLIC FORUM - Tim Klecker. INFORMATION ITEMS 1) Student Recognition - Students in the cast, crew, and pit orchestra in the high school musical “Little Shop of Horrors” were recognized and congratulated by Dr. Kazmierczak for earning state recognition from the Hennepin Trust Theatre Spotlight Awards.

2) Superintendent’s Report - Arianna Vann-Cook spoke about the Black Student Union’s Annual Showcase on February 15. She also mentioned spring sport registration and the White Bear Center for the Arts writing contest, WriteNow! Dr. Kazmierczak recognized and thanked our School Board members and student liaisons for their service for Minnesota School Board Recognition Month. He spoke about the upcoming Coffee with Dr. K on February 22. He also gave information about Teacher of the Year nominations. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1) Overview of FY 2023-24 Revised Budget - Andi Johnson, Director of Finance and Tim Wald, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations,

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

MINUTES FEBRUARY 26, 2024

Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.

A work session of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, February 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112 at District Center, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1) Call to Order - Chair Ellison called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2) Roll Call - Present: Arcand, Daniels, Ellison, Newmaster, Thompson. Absent: Beloyed, Streiff Oji. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1) Bear Care Health & Wellness Clinic Update - Lisa Ouren, Director of Student Support Services, along with Dr. Jessica Miehe, Clinic Director; Amy Martinez Svendsen, Nurse Manager; and Dr. Lisa Borenman, Mental Health Provider from Rise Up Health Clinics, a non-profit health organization that operates the Bear Care School-Based Health Center presented an update on the no-cost clinic that provides health services to all students in the White Bear Lake Area School District. Deb Beloyed joined the meeting at 5:36 p.m. 2) Sunrise Park Middle School/Mariner Middle School Transition Update - Dr. Alison Gillespie, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, and Christina Pierre, Sunrise Park Middle School Principal presented an update on the transition process for Sunrise Park Middle School/Mariner Middle School. 3) Ethnic Studies Update - Brenton Shavers, Director of Educational Equity and Achievement, Jen Babiash, Director of Teaching and Learning, Russ Reetz, White Bear Lake Area High School Principal, Briana Santoscoy, Family Engagement Coordinator, and Mark Domschot, Social Studies teacher provided an update on the program.

NEGOTIATIONS *This portion of the meeting may be closed to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to Minn. Stat. 179A.01 to 179A.25. Newmaster moved and Thompson seconded to move into closed session at 6:35 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. The meeting went into closed session at 6:42 p.m. The meeting went into open session at 6:50 p.m. ADJOURNMENT - Arcand moved and Daniels seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:51 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Scott Arcand, clerk. Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 13, 2024.

WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS, ISD #624

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed bids will be received by ISD #624, White Bear Lake Area Schools for the District Wide Security Upgrades – Sunrise until 2:00 pm local time, on Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bidders are invited to attend. The bid opening will be in Room 206 at the District Center located at 4855 Bloom Avenue in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. Bids received after this time will be returned unopened. Bids will be received for a single prime Contract. All bids shall be on a lump sum basis without alterations, additions, or erasures on the forms provided in the project manual. This project will consist of a complete replacement of the District’s physical security systems at the Sunrise facility which is being completely renovated. The systems included are an Avigilon access control system including door hardware, Avigilon video surveillance system, an integrated Bosch intrusion detection system, and supporting infrastructure systems. Binders containing bids must be marked “District Wide Security Upgrades – Sunrise” with the name and address of the bidder, the name of the Project, and the date and hour of the opening. Bids shall be delivered to: Kevin Fernandez – Director of Operations – Room #309 White Bear Lake Area Schools 4855 Bloom Avenue , White Bear Lake, MN 55110

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any irregularities in the bids. Bids that are faxed or emailed will not be accepted.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: True North Consulting Group, 140 3rd St. S., Stillwater, MN 55082, contact: Brandon Frazier, brandon.frazier@tncg.com, Electronic copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from QuestCDN eBidDoc #8994994 for $22.00. True North Consulting Group will not send documents directly.

Each bidder shall include bid security with the Bid Form as described in the Instructions for Procurement. Verification of Compliance with Minnesota Statue Chapter 16C.285 – Responsible Contractor Requirements Defined must also be submitted with the Bid Form.

A pre-bid conference will be held on-site (see Preliminary Schedules in RFB documents for time/date).

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 6 and 13, 2024.

Zephyrs make epic rally on way to 4th place at state

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Mahtomedi generated one of the most remarkable comebacks in state hockey tournament history, rallying from a 4-0 deficit to a 6-6 tie capped by two emptynet goals. However, the top-ranked Hermantown Hawks fended off the Zephyrs 7-6 in overtime in the Class A semifinals at Xcel Energy Center.

“That was one of the craziest games anyone had ever played in. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a team come back from 4-0,” said Patrick Eagan, senior captain.

The Zephyrs, who had

opened with a 5-2 win over Orono, finished fourth after a 4-1 loss to Warroad in the third-place game. Their final record is 18-13.

“It was not the result we wanted, but the tournament was a great experience for us,” Egan said. Coach Jeff Poeschl remembered a similar state semifinal in 2018 when the Zephyrs trailed Orono 4-0, caught up, and lost in OT 5-4. And just last year the Zephyrs trailed Warroad 5-2 in the third period of the title game and rallied to win 6-5 in overtime. A reporter suggested to Poeschl that Mahtomedi can’t ever be counted

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP BOARD NOTES

Board member Scott McCune will need a sit-in member, as he is moving out of the township this May. The term only covers the time until the next general election. Town Clerk Patrick Christopherson informed the board that he will “post the job on March 15 for 30 days.” The board plans to interview candidates the first week of May and affirm their selected candidate on June 3.

• Township resident Gordon Nelson of 5241 W. Bald Eagle Blvd requested a variance to extend his garage. “This property has been granted two previous variances,” said CJ Sycks of TKDA, the township’s planning consultants. “One in ’84 and one in ’92.” Chair Ed Prudhon was wary. “Making another variance for another stall on the garage gives me a little heartburn,” he said. Nelson said they didn’t want to “ruin the green space” and that the plan was not to add another stall, but rather make the garage deeper. “There is not much room to play with.” Due to a recent case in Minnetonka, Town Attorney Chad Lemmons cautioned the board that variances are now much stricter. Prudhon agreed with Lemmons, telling Nelson that “We want to slow down variances, especially around the lake.” The board ultimately denied the variance request.

• Bob Leeper expressed frustration with two issues near his property on Fifth Court Road: “The asphalt on Fifth Court Road is quite broken up,” Leeper said, “The plan, I thought, was to have it replaced this year, but that got pushed to 2025.” Prudhon cited the complexity of the street in question as well as its location for the delay, “It’s complicated with this road— there are ups and downs, tight turns. TKDA is taking a thoughtful, strategic approach.”

Leeper also shared a concern about a nearby property, which he described as a “junkyard.” “They’ve exceeded their square footage with multiple boats or vehicles as well as piles of debris,” Leeper complained, “They cannot close their garage.” Lemmons responded, “They have rights—but you do too! It’s not being ignored.” The board assured Leeper that City Planner Mike Johnson will soon be by the property in question to survey.

• Prudhon relayed his concerns about emerald ash borer. “It’s sad to say, but we are losing a lot of trees in this town,” Prudhon lamented. Board member Scott Ruzek added, “We have an arborist and staff going out—as well as other communities have. We’re addressing it as fast as we can.”

Logan Gion

the puck to the right, then to the left with his forehand, to get around goalie Payton Anderson for a 3-2 lead with 5:49 left. Orono pulled the goalie and the Zephyrs broke it open with emptynetters by Sam Harris and Hodd-Chlebeck. In the second period, power play goals were scored by Mahtomedi’s Max Strecker and Orono’s Joey Mugaas. Zephyr goalie Charlie Brandt notched 26 saves. Making assists were Jimmy Egan (two), Harris and Winston Wright.

Hodd-Chlebeck followed with a power play goal at 10:05. Just 32 seconds later, Francisco broke their momentum with a power play goal. The Zephyrs kept charging. Patrick Egan made it 5-3 at 16:07. Wyatt Tarnowski struck next, 2:54 into the third. “We had a lot of momentum. All the guys were getting really excited, like, what if we can come all the way back,”  said Hodd-Chlebeck.

out. “No, you can’t — but it’s still not a great game plan,” he quipped, meaning a 4-0 deficit. “But I’m really proud of my guys for coming back like that.”

St. Cloud Cathedral upset Hermantown 3-1 for the championship. Sam Harris, Zephyr junior defenseman, made the all-tournament team, logging 3 goals and 3 assists.

Zephyrs 5, Orono 2

The Zephyrs pumped in four goals in the last six minutes after Orono took a 2-1 lead with 8:45 left on a Brooks Fevers goal. Jake Hodd-Chlebeck pulled Mahtomedi even with 6:07 left, rushing up the right side for an awkwardangle shot that connected. Just 18 seconds later, Gene Wegleitner scored off a face-off, steering

Hermantown 7, Zephyrs 6

Against a team that beat them 5-1 in December, the Zephyrs were down 4-0 after one period on Hermantown goals by River Freeman, Jack Slattengren, Alexander Francisco and Weston Bohlman. Poeschl challenged his stunned team: “I basically said we can either roll over and die, just throw up our hands and pack up our stuff and go. Or we can make a decision to make a game of it.” They made a game of it. Outshot 16-6 in the opening period, the Zephyrs kept grinding and outshot the Hawks 34-17 the rest of the way. Harris got the Zephyrs on the board at 8:25 of the second period.

Hermantown regained a two-goal lead on Francisco’s third goal at 5:41.The Hawks held that margin for almost 10 minutes. Then Mahtomedi made two more huge plays. With the goalie pulled, Harris scored with 1:52 remaining. Strecker tied the score with 51 seconds left, getting his stick on a slap shot by Harris and redirecting it. Each goal came after HoddChlebeck won face-offs.

“I totally think we played great D; they just made great plays, and we did too,” Hawks coach Patrick McAndrew said. “Who would have thought that game would be 7-6 with the way our two teams are built.”

In the OT, the last two state champions (Mahtomedi last year, Hermantown in 2022) slugged it out for seven minutes before Freeman zapped

PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT ON CAMPBELL AVENUE / KRECH AVENUE / SECOND STREET / THIRD STREET / WOOD AVENUE / SPORTS CENTER DRIVE

CITY PROJECT NO. 24-01 & 24-08 Notice is hereby given that the City of White Bear Lake will receive and accept bids ONLY through QuestCDN.com via their electronic VirtuBid online bid service until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 for the furnishing of all labor and materials to complete the following described local improvements under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429 A virtual bid opening will be held on Wednesday, April 3 at 11:00 a.m. utilizing an online viewing platform. Instructions for viewing the bid opening will be posted on the City’s website (www.whitebearlake.org).

The

Pavement Rehabilitation on: Campbell Avenue (Birch Lake Avenue to Fourth Street), Krech Avenue (Birch Lake Avenue to Fifth Street), Second Street (West cul-de-sac to Wood Avenue), Third Street (West Cul-De-Sac to Wood Avenue), Third Street (Campbell Avenue to Bald Eagle Avenue), Wood Avenue (Birch Lake Avenue to Fourth Street), and Sports Center Drive (Birch Lake Boulevard South to C.S.A.H. 96)

Contract quantities include the following:

An exclusive electronic bidding process is being used for this project. Plans, specifications, bid forms and contract documents may be obtained through QUEST CDN

MINNESOTA

the puck over Charlie Brandt’s right shoulder with 49 seconds left. Brandt stopped 14 of 17 shots in relief of Wes Strub, who faced 16 shots in the first period and stopped 12. Jimmy Egan made three assists; Hodd-Chlebeck, Harris and Wright two each; and Tarnowski, Cole Swanson and Strecker one each.  Hermantown goalie Dane Callaway, with a brilliant .939 save percentage coming into the game, gave up six goals on 39 shots.

Warroad 4, Zephyrs 1

In a third-place rematch of last year’s finals, Warroad (25-6) grabbed a 4-0 with power play goals by Murray Marvin-Cordes and Carson Pilgrim plus even-strength goals by Tavin James and Ryan Shaugabay. Mahtomedi got on the board with Hodd-Chlebeck scoring on a power play assisted by Cole Swanson in the third period. Shots were even, 31 by Mahtomedi and 30 by Warroad. Brandt was in goal for the Zephyrs and Ben Norris for the Warriors. Poeschl said it was tough to get ready for a 9:30 game after a battle like they had the day before but noted that Warroad lost an OT game Friday also.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 13, 2024.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA

SECRETARY OF STATE

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Classic Pizza Man of Little Canada

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 4668 Stoddart

An exclusive electronic bidding process is being used for this project. Plans, specifications, bid forms and contract documents may be obtained through QUEST CDN at www.questcdn.com – Project No. 9018760 for a fee of $22.00. Bids must be submitted electronically using the QUEST CDN system, no paper bids will be considered.

A bid bond for five (5%) percent of the amount of the bid is required to submit a vBid online through the QuestCDN portal. The bid bond will be forfeited as liquidated damages if the bid is accepted and the bidder fails to promptly provide the required additional documents or enter into the contract.

The Zephyrs and their student gallery celebrated a goal as they rallied to tie the score against Hermantown.

Above: Reagan Joseph picks up a

from

an Denault during

in White Bear Lake. The final Friday Fish Fry of the season at St. Pius X is March 15.

At right: Freshly assembled Friday Fish Fry baskets are ready to be delivered at the Keep Zimmer VFW Post 1782 in White Bear Lake.

Above: Some of the dozens of volunteers, who help serve hundreds of fish dinners during a typical St. Pius X Friday Fish Fry evening, line up to receive side dish servings. Volunteers , at left, serve up dinners during a recent St. John the Baptist Men’s Club of St. Genevieve

Fish Fry in Hugo.

events also includes a Friday Fish Fry at St. Jude of the Lake in Mahtomedi on March 15.

Thank You God, Saint Mary and Saint Jude for favors granted!

2021 Coachman BHS Pull behind trailer $29,900

Sleeps 10 Queen bed,bunks, couch,dining area, outdoor cooking area w/fridge Call 651-399-2374

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Coor's Light: $250 Miller Light: $150 Jose Cuervo: $300 651-248-9307

100% 3YrDryRed Oak

Running or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142

403 Boutiques

403 Boutiques

Mark your Calendar ANNUAL SPRING BOUTIQUE & BAKE SALE

Mark your Calendar

ANNUAL SPRING BOUTIQUE & BAKE SALE

Friday, March 22: 9am - 7pm

Saturday, March 23: 9am - 4pm

Friday, March 22: 9am - 7pm

Saturday, March 23: 9am - 4pm

White Bear Area Senior Center 2484 East County Rd F, WBL

White Bear Area Senior Center 2484 East County Rd F, WBL

All Items are handmade

All Items are handmade

White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (subject to change, between Memorial Day – Labor Day).

Salary range from $17.00/hour to $20.00/hour depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.

White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (subject to change, between Memorial Day – Labor Day). Salary range from $17.00/hour to $20.00/hour depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.

Applications are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at the Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship.org. No application deadline; open until positions are filled.

Applications are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at the Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship.org. No application deadline; open until positions are filled.

Part-time Public Works Employee

Part-time Public Works Employee

to assist the public department in regular maintenance and repair

work

Are

children under the

of 18 living with

or

includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777.

Are you looking for something to keep your child(ren) busy?

and

securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777.

The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275

How about something that gives them cash? Talk to them about delivering newspapers!

for a Job?

Seasonal Public Works Maintenance Employee

Seasonal Public Works

Maintenance Employee

The City of Lexington is accepting applications for a seasonal Public Works Maintenance employee (20-40 hours/week), to assist in regular and recurring maintenance, installation and repair work associated with the City’s parks, streets, utilities, and buildings. The position starts before Memorial Day and ends after Labor Day (start and end time is flexible). Position pays $18.00/hour. A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is essential. Applications available Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm, at Lexington City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 or online at http://www.ci.lexington.mn.us/.

Position is open until filled.

The City of Lexington is accepting applications for a seasonal Public Works Maintenance employee (20-40 hours/week), to assist in regular and recurring maintenance, installation and repair work associated with the City’s parks, streets, utilities, and buildings. The position starts before Memorial Day and ends after Labor Day (start and end time is flexible). Position pays $18.00/hour. A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is essential. Applications available Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm, at Lexington City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 or online at http://www.ci.lexington.mn.us/. Position is open until filled.

Notice

of Intent to Fill Vacant Township Board Seat by Appointment

A vacancy has occurred on the White Bear Township Board of Supervisors.

Notice is hereby given that the council will appoint a person to fill this vacated position until December 31, 2024. Notice is further given that the Board will accept resumes and written letters of interest for the vacant seat from qualified Township residents (18 years of age required) until 12 p.m. on April 15, 2024. Letters should be submitted to the Deputy Clerk. The current Township Board will review applicants and conduct interviews the first week of May 2024. POSTED: 3-13-2024.

CITY OF MAHTOMEDI

ROUTES AVAILABLE FOR WHITE BEAR PRESS: Rte 676 – N of 82nd St – E of Fox Rd Rte 678 – S of Birch St – E of Fawn Ln Rte 295 – N of 96 – E of Portland Rte 114 – S of Cty F – E of Bellaire Rte 262 – Lake Ave – E of Hwy 61 N of Lake – E of Hwy 61 Rte 246 – N of 4th Ave – E of Bald Eagle Rte 632 – S of North Rd – W of Center Park Rte 274 – S of Bald Eagle – W of Hwy 61 Rte 128 – S of Cty Rd F – W of White Bear Ave Main Street Business District –downtown White Bear Lake

Other Routes available, call our Circulation Dept. at 651-407-1246.

is open until filled. If you enjoy meeting people, solving problems and helping businesses grow, this may be the perfect opportunity for you. Press Publications seeks an organized and creative professional multimedia rep to promote and market the business community through our products in print and digital. Sales experience is helpful but training is provided to the candidate who shows the willingness to learn and grow in a fast-paced marketplace. PRESS PUBLICATIONS IS SEEKING A MULTIMEDIA REPRESENTATIVE SEND YOUR RESUME TO PATTY STEELE AT MARKETING@PRESSPUBS.COM OR CALL 651-407-1213 Scan this QR Code to see Employment opportunities in Eastern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin communities. Looking for a Job?

SEASONAL FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT MAINTENANCE WORKER

CITY OF MAHTOMEDI SEASONAL FULL TIME

EMPLOYMENT MAINTENANCE WORKER

The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/ move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The pay range is from $18.00/hr. to $20.00/hr. depending on qualifications. Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 or at its website at www.ci.mahtomedi.mn.us. Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

VFW: Couple bequeaths sizeable gift

“enhanced” kitchen with more fryers and griddle space, and new HVAC. Although he didn’t want to get into specifics, Krominga hinted at potentially adding a Sunday breakfast and new menu items.

Although the kitchen will be closed at some point, patrons won’t go hungry during the remodel. “We will supplement with pizza and hot dogs, and maybe sandwiches,” Krominga said.

Even before the Levandowski donation (a dollar amount of which the VFW prefers not to disclose), plans included “long overdue” upgrades to restrooms that will meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) design standards. ADA requires a public building be physically accessible to anyone with disabilities. A unisex bathroom will be available for patrons during construction and public bathrooms are located across the street at Boatworks Commons.

The front entrance, too, will change to better accommodate wheelchairs. Instead of making a sharp turn once inside the vestibule, people will walk straight in. That does necessitate one unfortunate change: The bowling game is going away.

It’s important to add that the VFW will remain open “even if it looks closed,” Krominga said. “And pulltabs will still be sold.”

Post leadership hopes the remodel will be completed by the end of April. That may be optimistic, admitted Krominga, who said work could “drift” into May.

To show the VFW’s appreciation for the Levandowski’s generosity, commemorative bricks inscribed with their name will be dedicated at Veterans Park this spring. Regrettably, Richard will never know about the bricks, said George Brown, who served as commander of the 400-plus member post when Lorraine’s posthumous gift was made.

Richard, a Navy reservist, died in December at age 87 before the order was placed. Lorraine preceded her husband, passing in 2022 at age 84. The two had quite the love story: they met as teens in Minneapolis and eventually eloped to Iowa to get married on New Year’s Day in 1955. They were married for 67 years and had three children and eight grandchildren.

CHURCH BRIEFS

Learn all about the Minnesota Twins

Redeemer Primetime, a speaker series at Redeember Lutheran Church, will feature a program on the Minnesota Twins Thursday, March 21. Guest speaker Clyde Doepner, full-time curator for the Twins, will discuss the memoribilia he collects and displays. The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. with coffee, followed by the program at 10 a.m. in the Redeemer artruim, 3770 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake. Register by calling 651-429-5411 by

March 17. A free-will offering will be received to cover expenses.

Holy Week music event clarification

On Palm Sunday, White Bear Lake United Methodist Church will feature the Holy Week story as told through the music of “Godspell” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.” An annual tradition at WBLUMC, the special musical event is from 10 to 11 a.m. Sunday, March 24. WBLUMC is located at 1851 Birch Street. For information visit wblumc. org.

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The late Lorraine and Richard Levandowski left a significant amount of money to the White Bear VFW. Lorraine was a lifetime auxiliary member who bequeathed funds in her will to improve restaurant acoustics.

DEBRA NEUTKENS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS Riverwood Group architect Amanda Berndt, left, met with members of the design team, Jayme Lee, post member, center, and Deb Courts-Brown, auxiliary president, to discuss interior color schemes and textures. Not pictured: Sheila Parato, club manager.

DEBRA NEUTKENS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Past Commander George Brown and current Commander Bob Krominga prior to the start of Post 1782’s renovation project. The White Bear club is the state’s only VFW located on a lake.

www.presspubs.com

Defensive grit sends Bears to state tourney

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake will play in the state girls basketball tournament this week after foiling East Ridge 56-48 with stout defense and rugged rebounding in the Section 4AAAA finals.

“It feels so awesome, especially my senior year, to go back to state,” said Jordyn Schmittdiel, the Bears’ 1,000-point scorer, who helped the Bears place third in the state as a sophomore. They were stopped in the section semifinals last year.

“We have been able to come together and be extremely connected on both ends,” said coach Jeremy Post. “The kids have bought into the attitude of sacrifice and playing for each other first. It is fun to see them enjoy the rewards that go along with that type of chemistry and teamwork.”

The Bears (21-7) have a tough draw at state, facing top-seeded Hopkins (25-3) to open the Class 4A tournament Wednesday at 10 a.m. at

Williams Arena.

Leading the Bears were Abby O’Brien with 14 points and five rebounds, and Schmittdiel with 13 points, 11 rebounds and four steals. Addi Post notched seven points and six assists. Cami Bachmeier added six points and Sarah Poepard and Heidi Barber five each. The Bears shot 7-for18 on three’s and 20-for-50 overall.

East Ridge had beaten Stillwater 79-57 in the semifinals with a new player in the lineup, Kendall Barnes, pouring in 27 points. In an almost unheardof development, Barnes, averaging 20.7 points for Roseville Area, transferred to East Ridge with two games left in the regular season.

The Bears beat East Ridge 65-60 and 64-51 on the way to the conference championship but the Raptors didn’t have Barnes then.  No matter. The Bears held the fleet senior guard to five points. “We are able to zone. You have to make it a half-court game against them,” said Post.  “They like

at Xcel Energy Center.

to score in transition.”

The Bears held the Raptors (20-9) under 50 points for the first time in 28 games. “We just took away what they were good at,” Post said. “They are so athletic and strong. Our kids gave every ounce to get every rebound they could to just hang in there.”

Sidney Klauer sank 17 points for East Ridge, hitting four of their seven 3-pointers. Isabelle Senneh added 12 points and Vienna Murray 10.

The Bears opened a 41-27 lead with a 12-0 run sparked by three steals and multiple tie-ups. East Ridge made a late surge with 3-pointers and full-court pressure, pulling within 49-45. O’Brien drilled a 3-pointer to break their momentum, after which Bachmeier and O’Brien each sank two free shots.

“I just wanted to get our team’s confidence back. They (East Ridge) made a little comeback and everybody seemed a little down,” said O’Brien. “So it was good to be able to make that one, to put us back on the board and stop

that little scoring streak.”

The other state pairings

Wednesday are Maple Grove vs. Lakeville North, Minnetonka vs. Andover and St. Michael-Albertville

vs. Rosemount. Semifinals are Thursday at 6 and 8 p.m. and finals Saturday at 8. Consolation games are Thursday at 10 a.m. and noon at Concordia-St. Paul.

Bears lose in heartbreaker at state tourney Zephyr girls runnerup in section finals

On a power play, Grand Rapids sophomore Nathan Garski received the puck in front of the net, on a pass from William Schoerman. Facing the Bears’ second-team allmetro goalie Leo Gabriel, Garski tipped the puck to his right, then tucked it just inside the post with 1.6 seconds on the clock.

The Bears had dramatically tied the game 1-1 with just 1:34 left while skating four-on-four. Jack Stanius blasted a shot from down the middle that skidded between the skates of goalie Carter Casey.

Tanner Olsen and Nolan Roed assisted.

“We were in a good position,”

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake was less than two seconds from overtime at the state hockey tournament but a slick move by a Grand Rapids player handed the Bears a 2-1 loss

Bears coach Christopher Anderson said. “Jack gets the goal in four-on-four — and then a few seconds left in the game, one mistake ends up in the back of our net. But that’s hockey, at the end of the day.”

Against a team they had beaten 2-0 at home Jan. 19, the Bears gave up a goal to Schoerman just 4:04

into the game. The score remained 1-1 for 46 1/2 minutes of evenlymatched hockey; the Bears had a 26-23 edge in shots, and seven penalties to Grand Rapids’  six.

After the early goal, Anderson said, “we felt like we controlled most of the game.” At the end, he said, “It was a great quick transition by GR and they were able to capitalize on it.”

“We beat a gutsy White Bear Lake team,” said Grant Clafton, Grand Rapids coach. “They didn’t stop the entire time, and they proved it at the end when they got their late goal. On our side, it feels great because we played to the last whistle, to the last 1.5 seconds,”

The loss continued the Bears’ frustration in state tournaments; they have lost in the first round in all 20 appearances going back to 1945.

The Bears, Suburban East co-champions and Section 4AA champions, lost in the consolation round to Elk River/Zimmerman 5-0, finishing 20-9-1.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Jake Hodd-Chlebeck Mahtomedi Hockey

Jake Hodd-Chlebeck was the team leader with 29 goals, also making 24 assists, in helping the Mahtomedi skaters win Section 4A and place fourth in the state tournament. The 5-foot-10, 180-pound senior forward delivered four goals and two assists at state. “Jake’s greatest asset is his speed; he’s got a terrific motor,” coach Jeff Poeschl. “He has also worked hard on his shot the last two years. He can overpower the goalie.” Poeschl praised his co-captain for huge improvement this year, from 22 points as a junior to 53 as a senior. “Your

Jake Hodd-Chlebeck

4661 Highway 61 | White Bear Lake

Bear boys season ends

White Bear Lake’s boys basketball season ended with a 77-52 loss to No. 8 ranked East Ridge in the first round of Section 4AAA on Wednesday evening. The Bears finished 3-24. Thomas Cussiotta netted 24 points and Rithy Sain 14 for the Bears.

The Mahtomedi girls finished runner-up in Section 4AAA, losing in the finals to No. 1 ranked DeLaSalle 75-62.

The No. 15 ranked Zephyrs finished 20-9 after beating Minneapolis Edison and HillMurray to reach the finals.

Ella Kletti netted 18 points, Anna Greene 15, Delaney Dummermuth 12 and Ella Frazier nine for the Zephyrs, who trailed by just 31-29 at halftime.

Aneisha Scott hit 20 points, and Madalyn Blaylark and Jordyn Johnson 19 each for the Islanders (25-4). All are underclassmen. They have been ranked first in Class 3A since December and are seeded second at state behind defending champion Benilde-St. Margaret’s.

“Winning the conference and extending our consecutive (conference) winning streak to 44 games was an exciting accomplishment,” said coach Mark Gustafson, “but the cohesiveness and unity of this team on and off the court is what made the season so memorable.”