White Bear Press

Seasonal pothole patching process

City of White Bear Lake Streets Working Foreman Mike Lillie and Streets Maintenance employee Joe Levine recently filled a string of potholes near the intersection of Linden Street and Co. Rd. E with hot patching material. The extreme snowfall and fluctuating temperatures are keeping crews busy on White Bear Lake streets. It should be noted that some area roads that appear to be pretty rough this spring, including Long Avenue, are actually under the jurisdiction of the county.

New twist to Purple Line project

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

MAPLEWOOD — The controversial Purple Line Bus Rapid Transit project has just been detoured.

At last week’s fourth and final public engagement workshop organized by the city, Ramsey County changed course by offering a new alternative route for the 14-mile Purple Line.

County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt read a letter addressed to Maplewood Mayor Marylee Abrams at the start of the March 22 meeting, explaining the change of course. The letter began by acknowledging Ramsey County’s commitment to a successful Metro Purple Line

Area business owner granted birthday wish

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Farrell Tuohy had one wish for his 60th birthday — better health.

That might just happen, thanks to White Bear Lake resident Jeff Engler. After a yearlong process, Engler found out he is a match and may be able to donate a kidney to Tuohy, who is a cousin of Engler’s wife, Barb.

Tuohy, owner of Pizza Man & Corner Malt Shop in White Bear Lake, has been on dialysis for nearly three years, something he says he can’t do forever. (See “Area business owner patiently waiting for kidney, June 8, 2021.)

So far, three people have come forward as potential donors but none of them have been a match. Engler is the first person to make it all the way through the testing phase, although there are still a few things that need to happen in order for the surgery to take place.

Last summer, the Englers stopped by Pizza Man’s booth at Marketfest and they started talking about blood types. Later, after realizing his blood type matched Tuohy’s, Engler decided to go through the testing to see if he was a match but he had one condition for Tuohy’s wife, Kim — she couldn’t tell her husband.

“It’s not very often a person has a chance to be a living donor,” explained Engler, who is listed as a donor on his license. “I’m a firm believer that you help out where you can, and if I can give him a kidney and prolong his life and get him up and running again … I don’t need two kidneys. You do what you can for family.”

After about a year of going through the process and just days before Tuohy’s birthday, Engler found out he was a match. On Tuohy’s birthday, the Englers and some family members stopped

and the fact partnerships are key to that success.

“To that end, we have decided to pursue additional community engagement, route analysis and collaboration with Maplewood and other stakeholders for the Purple Line,” the letter read. “We have withdrawn our support for the submittal of federal rating documentation in August and will instead focus on the reevaluation of White Bear Avenue as an alternative route.”

The letter went on to say a detailed reevaluation of White Bear Avenue will allow comparison with the current Ramsey County rail alignment that uses shared space with the Bruce Vento Trail. Project stakeholders, it continued, will decide on the preferred route

prior to advancing the project further into design.

The letter was signed by Trista MatasCastillo, Board of Commissioners chair; Rafael Ortega, chair of the Ramsey County Regional Railroad Authority; and Reinhardt, who represents White Bear Lake in District 7.

“This is something we worked hard on,” said Reinhardt, who waited for the workshop to announce the alternative route. “We really vetted this proposal and feel positive on the reception we received from Metro Transit and the Metropolitan Council.”

The proposal will “slow the process down,” admitted the commissioner, as thorough

SEE PURPLE LINE, PAGE 5

SEE FARRELL TUOHY, PAGE 3

Pizza Man owner Farrell Tuohy, right, poses for a photo with his “kidney buddy.” If everything goes as planned, Jeff Engler plans to donate his kidney to Tuohy.

Welcome spring with a scavenger hunt

Celebrate the arrival of spring in Vadnais Heights with a scavenger hunt. Kids can download a questionnaire online and head to local parks and public locations throughout the community to solve the clues. Completed hunts can be turned in for a free goodie bag.

The hunt can be done at any time prior to April 15. Scavenger hunt forms can be downloaded at cityvadnaisheights.com/828/SpringScavenger-Hunt, or hard copies can be picked up at City Hall.

Waffle Breakfast clarification

The Vadnais Heights Lions Belgian Waffle Breakfast is from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, April 2. The event will be held at Vadnais Heights Commons,

655 East County Road F.

The date was incorrect in last week’s paper. The Press apologizes for the error and any inconvenience to readers.

Remembering Vietnam 50 years later

A special program recognizing the end of the Vietnam War is planned March 29 at Veterans Memorial Park in White Bear Lake. The 15-minute program begins at 10:45 a.m. and includes remarks by past VFW State Commander Dave Adams on remembering Vietnam 50 years later. The names of seven White Bear Lake veterans killed in action will be read: Jerry N. Ellis, Jerrold P. Smith, Allen R. Meldahl, John F. Rielly, Jerome F. Lavasseur, James F. Uttermark and Ronald A. Kresbsbach. A rifle salute

and playing of taps to honor the dead will precede closing remarks by Vietnam veteran and past VFW Post Commander Darryl Lemire. A final prayer by Chaplain Chris Kneen will conclude the program. A luncheon at the VFW follows from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteer opportunities at food shelf

The White Bear Area Food Shelf saw a 40% increase in visitors in 2022 over 2021, and current economic conditions are causing more people who haven’t needed support before to visit the food shelf. Volunteer opportunities are currently available for people of all ages and abilities. A particular need is for volunteers to help the WBLAFS meet increased demand at the curbside market and to help increase options and prevent food waste through food rescue efforts with local grocery stores.

To learn more or to volunteer, email carol@whitebearfoodshelf.org or call 651-433-7286.

Congressional art competition kicks off

Rep. Betty McCollum has announced the 2023 Congressional

Art Competition, open to all high school students residing or attending school in Minnesota’s Fourth Congressional District.

All entries will be displayed in the Atrium Gallery of the Schmidt Artist Lofts as part of the Spring St. Paul Art Crawl April 21-23 and as part of a digital exhibit on Rep. McCollum’s website.

The winning entry will be displayed as part of a national exhibit in the U.S. Capitol.

Submissions are due by 5 p.m. Friday, April 14. Find rules and instructions at mccollum.house.gov/ art-competition.

Golf for clean water

White Bear Lake-based H2O for Life will host its annual golf outing fundraiser from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 5 at Top Golf in Brooklyn Center. The event includes two hours of golf and a Fajita Fiesta buffet. Cost is $100 per person, or a six-person bay for $500. A dinner-only option is also available. Proceeds support H2O for Life programs to educate and inspire youth to take action to solve the global water crisis. For more information, or to register or donate, call 651-756-7577 or visit h2oforlifeschools.org.

VFW On The Lake Post 1782 White Bear Lake

AprilCalendar 2023

Join us for drinks, food and games. Bring your own game or use ours. Games we have available include: Sorry, Aggravation, Scrabble, Connect Four, Yahtzee, Dominoes, Jenga, Uno, Trouble, Cribbage and Cards. (No cash gambling allowed with the games) Now let’s have some fun and socialize!

We Do the Heavy Lifting for You!

FARRELL TUOHY: New kidney

by for a visit and to reveal the surprise.

“It threw me for a loop. I didn’t know anything about it,” Tuohy said. “It was a total shocker.”

Before giving Tuohy a card, Engler asked him, “If you could have anything in the world right now, what would it be?” And Tuohy responded, “better health.”

Engler then unzipped his sweatshirt to reveal a T-shirt that read, “kidney buddies for life.” Tuohy was speechless.

“There is no way in hell I would have guessed he was there to do that,” Tuohy said. “I lost it. It was crazy. I couldn’t speak.”

Tuohy is beyond grateful for the sacrifice that Engler is willing to make. “That’s one hell of a sacrifice, for him to make that commitment …” he said.

The two are hopeful the donation

will happen, but there are a few hurdles that need to be jumped over first. They have to go through a tissue crossmatch to check to see how Tuohy’s immune system may react to Engler’s kidney. In addition, Tuohy currently has a wound on his toe that is slow to heal. In order to speed up the healing process, he may need to go through a partial amputation. Once he is healed from that, if everything else checks out, they can get the organ donation surgery on the calendar.

“It’s been a long haul,” Tuohy said. Engler added, “It’s a privilege to do something like this. It is something more people should participate in. More people should think of others instead of themselves.”

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

CHURCH BRIEFS

Agencies offer suicide prevention training to equip ministry

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) are partnering to offer free suicide prevention training for rural faith leaders this April and May. Clergy leaders who serve rural congregations of all faiths and denominations are welcome. The training sessions will help teach faith leaders how to recognize and engage with someone who is having suicidal thoughts, connect that person to help, and support family and community members affected by suicide.

The four-week training pairs an online curriculum from LivingWorks Faith with weekly discussion sessions held via Zoom. Participants will discuss the approaches they learn in a pastoral context with peers in their region of the state. LivingWorks Director of Faith Community Engagement Glen Bloomstrom will facilitate the training, along with several other LivingWorks team members.

The training for faith leaders in the

northern half of Minnesota starts April 18, while the southern Minnesota training starts April 27. Enrollment is free but is limited to 40 participants, and advance registration is required. Full details and registration can be found online at https://tinyurl.com/67cnthws for northern Minnesota or https:// tinyurl.com/5n8v86ye for southern Minnesota.

Celebrate

Palm

Sunday with the music of ‘Godspell’ and ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’

All are welcome to attend a free, family-friendly concert at the 10 a.m. service on Palm Sunday, April 2, at White Bear Lake United Methodist Church.

The service includes the Palm Sunday story along with traditional hymns, readings, prayers and the music of “Godspell” and “Jesus Christ, Superstar” with the WBLUMC rock ensemble, featuring lead vocalists Dane Stauffer and Laurel Kaeferlein.

WBLUMC is located at 1851 Birch Street. For more information, call 651429-9026 or visit wblumc.org.

I’mback

Did you miss me?! I hope so because I missed you. I recently returned to work after taking 12 weeks off for maternity leave. My husband and I welcomed our first child, Royce, the day after Christmas.

Dropping him off at daycare for the first time and walking back into the Press Publications office after being off for three months was an absolutely surreal experience. I may have shed a tear (or two).

During my leave, I unplugged from the world for a while. I didn’t watch the news on TV or scroll my newsfeed on Facebook for quite some time. Part of that was on purpose, but another part of that was because my family and I had so much going on all at once.

Shannon’s

Shenanigans

Shannon Granholm

Right after welcoming our son, we had to rush our corgi Twinkie to the emergency vet. For six months prior we were religiously putting various drops in her left eye to try to cure neurogenic dry eye, which means her glands were producing zero tears. At one point, we were putting five different drops in her eye twice a day.

Needless to say, the drops didn’t work and she developed an ulcer on her eye. We had to rush her to the emergency vet and were told that if we didn’t remove her eye, it would likely rupture. We went through with the surgery and thankfully Twinkie didn’t skip a beat. Besides being a little loopy from the anesthesia and drugs for the first 24 hours, she adapted very well and went right back to acting like her sassy self. And now she has one more nickname, T-Winks.

At the same time our German shepherd Frosty also started having troubles of her own. She likely has degenerative myelopathy (DM), which is a disease that affects the spinal cord, resulting in slowly progressive hind limb weakness and paralysis. DM is similar to some of the forms of human ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

In the beginning she started dragging her feet and but then one day she went to stand up and it was like her legs just weren’t there anymore. It happened so fast and has been absolutely heartbreaking to watch. She is only 9 years old. We are hoping the disease’s progression slows down for a while so we can keep her enjoying life and free of pain for as long as possible.

She’s on the waitlist to get a doggy wheel chair that should help her get around outdoors. Indoors we have a harness that we can use to lift her back legs so she can get up and down all the stairs in our split-level home.

So much has happened in my life over these last few months, and I know a lot has happened in our communities while I was away. I was so sad to hear Chef Hot Hands was killed in a shooting in St. Paul. What a huge loss for our communities.

I was happy to hear area business owner Farrell Tuohy was gifted a kidney on his birthday after a three-year wait.

I’ve sure missed my interactions with community members and I’m looking forward to plugging back in and feeling in-the-know again.

Shannon Granholm is the managing editor at Press Publications.

Building Literacy Success for All Students

Literacy success is foundational to academic achievement and unlocking student success. In Mahtomedi Public Schools, we are using a multifaceted approach to strengthen literacy programming for all our students.

and particularly important for students with reading difficulties and characteristics of dyslexia. Teachers use this new understanding along with the data gathered in our screening and diagnostic assessments to meet the needs of all students.

Movers & Shakers

Jennifer Reichel

During the 2022-23 school year, teachers in Mahtomedi Public Schools, specifically at Wildwood Elementary School and special education teachers from O.H. Anderson Elementary School began professional development coursework called Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS). LETRS deepens a teacher’s understanding of how a child’s brain learns how to read while refreshing practices to use during instruction to develop skilled readers bridging foundational skills to reading comprehension. The training also helps teachers learn research-based strategies to provide explicit and systematic instruction in foundational reading skills that are essential for all students

• Limited to 350 words.

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

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

• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and

Carter C. Johnson ...............................Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson .....................Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com Shannon Granholm ................Managing Editor quadnews@presspubs.com Amy Johnson..............................Interim Editor news@presspubs.com Patty Steele .......Director of Sales & Marketing marketing@presspubs.com

Our district has put considerable time and resources toward LETRS training and continued investment is critical. Our LETRS programming is made possible because of an initial investment in 2018 by the Mahtomedi Area Education Foundation (MAEF). This initial investment helped support two teachers become LETRS facilitators. MAEF is once again serving as a critical resource for our district with their annual Zephyr Gala which is fundraising for decodable books for our elementary classrooms. These books help students engage in their learning and confidently practice reading skills specifically matched to their instructional needs. Ensuring that every child has the capability to access these texts is the gateway to learning and future academic success.

This year the Minnesota Legislature is considering the Read Act (HF629/SF1273). This bill establishes evidence-based literacy practices in instruction, intervention, and reporting for school districts. The bill

WHITE BEAR 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

Melissa McElin .................Production Manager artmanager@presspubs.com Zoey Nguyen ......................................Designer art@presspubs.com Brianna Luecken..............................Circulation

also includes grant funding for the purposes of training and literacy supports (curriculum, literacy specialists, instructional coaches, and professional development). Mahtomedi Superintendent Barb Duffrin and School Board member Dr. Lucy Payne have been advocating in the Minnesota Senate and House of Representatives for ongoing money for school districts for LETRS training. We wholeheartedly support the efforts to make this training more accessible and it is essential that funding be continuous.

We are also investing in efforts to partner with families who have children identified with dyslexia or who show characteristics of dyslexia. On April 3, from 6-7 pm, we will hold an informational session for parents at the Mahtomedi District Education Center.  We hope you will join us to learn more and ask questions about our dyslexia supports.

Mahtomedi Public Schools is committed to building a strong literacy foundation for all our students. We are grateful for our partnership with staff, families, and the community to ensure all students can unlock their potential for academic success with a strong literacy program.

Jennifer Reichel is the Director of Teaching and Learning at Mahtomedi Public Schools

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.

Senator following through

After years of inaction, our Legislature is really stepping up and getting things done. This is especially true of Sen. Heather Gustafson, who wrote the bill providing free meals for all Minnesota students. Thanks to her work, so many kids in Minnesota won’t have to go hungry anymore.

Our last senator seemed to enjoy dividing people more than actually solving problems, and it is fantastic to see Sen. Gustafson adopt the exact opposite approach in St. Paul.

I also really appreciate the work Sen. Gustafson is doing to repeal taxes on Social Security benefits. I understand and respect both sides in this debate, but in my opinion, I shouldn’t be taxed when I receive benefits that I earned and I paid for through my taxes. It’s unfair, and only serves to constrict my already fixed income.

When I talked to Heather Gustafson before she was elected, she said she agrees with me and will work to get this done. Now that she is in office, Sen. Gustafson is following through on that promise. We are lucky to have a senator that listens to the people she represents and is willing to fight for us at the state Capitol. It takes courage to stand up to one’s own party, but Sen. Gustafson is proving she has that in spades.

Michael Carpenter White Bear Lake

Concerns about stadium location

I have read recently that it has been decided to move the varsity sports stadium currently at the South Campus to the newly constructed stadium at North Campus in 2024.

Who made this decision, when it was indicated when the approved bond levy was passed that the stadium would stay at South Campus once the North Campus is the new high school in 2024?

I don’t believe the powers that be that are pushing this decision are being very transparent.

Have you ever been on Bald Eagle Avenue on a typical weekday when school is in session at three schools that include an elementary school, a middle school and the North Campus, which currently has grades 9-10 (soon to be a four-year high school) at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.?

Traffic is horrendous the way it is. With this proposed move, they want to have enough bleachers at North Campus to accommodate 5,000 people! Really? Bald Eagle Avenue and other neighboring streets near the North Campus are not equipped to handle heavier traffic than there already is.

Please voice your concerns and comments on this stadium move at the next White Bear Planning Commission meeting at City Hall at 7 p.m. Monday, March 27. The district needs the city’s approval to make this change.

The White Bear Lake City Council will consider this request and vote at its 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 11 meeting at City Hall.

Please let your council representatives know of your concerns that will affect your neighborhoods if this is approved.

Barb Bicha

White Bear Lake Support home health care bill

As Minnesota hospital systems face nursing shortages, there is one area with extreme need that is often left

in the dark: nursing home care needs for medically fragile children. Nurses who provide in-home services for medically fragile children are often paid a fraction of what hospital nurses are paid, resulting in an inability for home health agencies to recruit qualified staff to care for children and their families.

Children typically wait for over a month, if not much longer, in the hospital for care teams to come together. At any moment, at Masonic Children’s hospital, where I work, there are multiple kids ready to go home who are waiting for a home care team. While hours covered vary, most children who qualify for home care will not have a full team to meet their needs; they’ll be discharged from the hospital with a skeleton crew, where parents are often responsible for staying up all night with their children to ensure ventilators don’t come unplugged or to respond to a monitor alarm.

Minnesota is on the lower end for home care reimbursement rates: $45/ hour is reimbursed to cover nurses plus all overhead. Compare this to Arizona, at $75/hour. There is a specific bill — H.F. 2087 (state House)/ S.F. 1830 (state Senate) — that can help address this need. This bill requests an increase in home health rates to be able to recruit and retain qualified nursing staff. Find out who your representatives are and reach out to them. They need to hear this matters to Minnesota for this bill to pass.   If you are looking for more information on this issue, please reach out. This is an important issue that needs support.

Vanessa Vega White Bear Lake

Pushing propaganda

I have no clue why the Foleys’ letter was even published (“Where are the pastors?” March 22). Mine probably will not be published because it is the antithesis of their opinion. Time and time again, entitled Christians feel attacked because the world is changing, and not to their liking. Wake up, the times are changing. How self-centered do you have to be to think your way of thinking is right and everyone else’s is wrong, and thus ridicule their beliefs because you don’t like them?

Newsflash — there are multiple religions out there. That doesn’t mean the one you were indoctrinated into is right. Stop pushing your beliefs on everyone else, be curious and not judgmental, and accept differences that are not hurting you.

You don’t have any self-made idea on the topics you said were bad, don’t recite items that you won’t do your own research on. Also, turn off the news that scares gullible people. How do you know the public school is teaching critical race theory (CRT)? Have you been to that class? What is CRT about, Mr. and Mrs. Foley? Or, are you only upset about CRT, abortion, etc. because someone else told you to feel upset about it? Please enlighten me.

We all can’t get along, because people like you feel that you are right and that everyone needs to follow the rules you say based on a book that is very problematic. Sad that Press Publications didn’t flag this; they went ahead and published this ignorant propaganda pusher.

Brett Malone White Bear Lake

PURPLE LINE: Original proposal incorporating popular trail still on table

Cave, “it feels like Christmas.”

Cave is one of many residents who want the Bruce Vento Trail left alone. She described the trail as the “heart of Maplewood.” Cutting down its trees and sharing the trail with a bus lane is like “severing an artery. I appreciate the county hearing that,” she said.

Keep in mind the original locally preferred alternative, which incorporates the popular trail, is still on the table, pointed out Nick Thompson, deputy general manager for Metro Transit.

“We must go through a deliberative process over the next several months (to study the alternative),” Thompson said. “We will be upgrading a good route that is there now that has tremendous potential. It meets the desire for improved transit and it protects a great asset in the Bruce Vento Trail. It’s a win-win in many ways but we still need the data. What will ridership be? Will it qualify for federal funding? These are important things we don’t know yet. It looks very promising, and we appreciate the county doing this.”

Reinhardt points out that the current preferred alternative goes to White Bear Lake. “We are looking at alternatives because buses are no longer going to White Bear Lake,” she said.

New maps will be drawn to show the route, which will use Maryland Avenue to White Bear Avenue into Maplewood. The option also brings Century College back to the table, Reinhardt noted. Under the current Bruce Vento alignment, the college was excluded.

“We know the college is important,” Thompson said. “Service there is not meeting students’ demands. It will be considered.”

Mayor Abrams said she’s encouraged that the project is on the right track. “The White Bear Avenue alignment makes sense. That’s where the businesses and grocery stores are. We have a deficit of transit and we need to figure this out in a way that makes the most sense.”

community and the need for reliable, frequent, high-quality transit service has not changed even in these uncertain times.

“Ramsey County will work with project partners and communities to take the time needed to explore and understand how a White Bear Avenue routing may benefit the project and the communities it serves,” she said. “We are excited to move forward with our partners to ensure the vision of the Purple Line becomes a reality.”

From the county’s perspective: “We don’t know what will happen at this point, but I’m feeling good about it,” Reinhardt said.

White Bear Lake ROTARY ACADEMIC ACHIEVER

Rotary Matters

wblrotary1@comcast.net

Gannon Hamen Mahtomedi Middle School

analysis is required, just like it was for other locally preferred alternatives. How long the analyses will take isn’t known, but could take up to a year.

So basically, it’s back to square one for the project as Met Council starts the process over.

To Maplewood City Council Member Rebecca

Advisory Committee member Diana Longrie noted that some of the No Rush Line Coalition recommendations presented to the group “dovetail nicely” with the new direction. “We look forward as a coalition to working on this with Met Council, our communities and City Council,” she said.

A statement from Reinhardt again emphasized the county’s long-term commitment to the Purple Line. “This project is a critical transit investment in the

Mahtomedi Middle School is proud to honor Gannon Hamen as our 2022-23 Academic Rotary Achiever. Gannon is an outstanding student who has achieved at a very high level while challenging himself in advanced level courses during his time at the middle school. Gannon is not only an exceptional student, he is a positive role model throughout the building and in the classroom who leads by example. He is always helpful and respectful to those around him. In addition to his academic success, Gannon is also very active in athletics playing basketball, football, and tennis. He also enjoys playing the piano. Congratulations, Gannon!

Sponsored by

Jim Hunt & Deb Lauer

GOOGLE

A new route proposed by Ramsey County along White Bear Avenue will be studied as a preferred alternative for the Purple Line bus project.

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

The White Bear Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• O fficers responding to a 911 hang-up in the 4800 block of Centerville Road March 15 recognized the man involved as having multiple warrants, including felony auto theft. He was arrested and possible order for protection violation charges against him are being reviewed.

• Burglary was reported in the 3800 block of Crestwood Place March 15.

• A n employee at a business in the 4100 block of Highway 61 N. was captured on a security camera taking tips from a safe in a secured office March 15. The investigation is ongoing.

• A d ispute was reported in the 3700 block of McKnight Road.

• O fficers responded to a fight in the 4500 block of Centerville Road March 17.

• A verbal domestic incident was reported in the 4400 block of Lake Avenue March 17. C riminal damage to property was reported in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway March 17.

• A complainant in the 2300 block of Lakeridge Drive reported March 17 that an SBA COVID relief loan was fraudulently taken out in his name.

• A d ispute was reported in the 1700 block of County Road E March 17.

• A resident was arrested for DWI in the 2500 block of Dorothy Avenue after officers traced a vehicle that had been involved in an accident on Stillwater Street and Northwest Avenue to that address.

• F raud was reported in the 3400 block of Savannah Avenue March 18.

• O fficers responded to a family

dispute in the 1800 block of Fifth Street March 19.

• A report of a noise complaint March 19 in the 3500 block of Century Ave. N. evolved into the arrest of a Milwaukee man on an active felony burglary warrant. He was also arrested for a no-contact order violation, felony burglary and felony terroristic threats.

• A Shoreview man was arrested for possession of controlled substances following a traffic stop near White Bear Avenue and I-694 March 19.

• O fficers responded to a code violation in the 1300 block of Highway 96 March 20.

• A man was arrested for assault in the 2800 block of Sun Terrace March 20.

• A g uest of a residence in the 2400 block of Gisella Blvd. was reported for stealing cash March 20.

• A Cadillac that had been stolen in Fridley was recovered in the 4700 block of Bald Eagle Avenue March 20.

• A vehicle that fled officers when they attempted to pull it over on White Bear Avenue for equipment violations March 21 was later located by the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office and found to have been stolen out of Minneapolis.

• A p erson was arrested for violation of a no-contact order in the 4800 block of Cook Avenue March 21.

• T heft was reported in the 2000 block of County Road E March 21.

• O fficers responded to a dispute in the 1700 block of Fourth Street March 21.

• H arassment was reported in the 2400 block of Gisella Blvd. March 21.

• O fficers mediated a civil issue in the 2100 block of Roth Place March 21.

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Vadnais Heights

• A New Brighton woman, 24, was cited March 1 in the area of I-694 and Rice Street for driving after revocation, after Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies observed her vehicle tailgating and driving over the speed limit on westbound I-694 to the east of Rice Street.

• A Shoreview man, 18, was cited March 1 at the Walmart for misdemeanor theft after loss prevention personnel observed this store employee stealing from cash registers on four different occasions. He was also seen trying and failing to steal a $500 gift card.

• T he Holiday gas station in the 1000 block of County Road E reported an employee was scammed by an imposter scam March 3, after the employee received a phone call from persons pretending to be from the help desk of a legitimate gift card company.

The spurious caller induced the clerk to perform tasks supposedly intended to reset card readers and test the readers by using gift cards. The gift card company was able to recover part of the funds lost.

• A resident in the 3300 block of Arcade Street on March 3 reported finding a red iPhone with a Nike case in the driveway of her building on Feb. 26 and was unable to locate its owner.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 39, was arrested at 7 a.m. March 4 in the 100 block of Bridgewater Drive for gross misdemeanor interfering with a 911 call, following a husband-wife verbal argument during which he prevented his wife from making the call.

• A suspicious arrow was reported at 2:33 p.m. March 4 for sticking out of the snowbank north of the Sucker Lake Park lot in the 25 block of County Road F.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Birchwood

Suspected fraud was reported March 2 on Cedar Street.

Dellwood

• A suspicious vehicle reported at 3:09 a.m. March 1 outside a business on Dellwood Road N. turned out to have belonged to an employee of the business.

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies at 12:41 a.m. March 4 conducted a traffic stop in the area of Dellwood Avenue and Peninsula Road and issued a citation to the driver for speeding 54 mph in a 35 mph zone.

Grant

• D eputies issued a warning Feb. 26 to a snowmobile operator in the area of Manning Avenue N. and 75th Street N. for incorrect registration display. They issued another warning 15 minutes later to a snowmobile operator in the area of Manning Avenue N. and 80th Street N. for an improper stop at a road crossing. Fifteen minutes after that, deputies issued a warning to a third snowmobile operator for making an improper stop at a road crossing in the 8000 block of Lofton Avenue N.

• Disorderly conduct was reported March 2 in the 8000 block of 75th Street N. Mahtomedi

• D eputies on routine patrol in the 700 block of Stillwater Road during the evening of Feb. 26 conducted a traffic stop after observing a vehicle failing to stay in its lane, and conducted a vehicle search.

• A n unidentified motorist was arrested for DWI at 9:56 p.m. Feb. 26 on Mahtomedi Avenue after deputies observed a vehicle almost strike another vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. After they administered field sobriety tests, deputies arrested the driver.

• A n unidentified suspect was taken into custody at 4:47 a.m. Feb. 27 after

White Bear Township

• A burglary in progress was reported at 7:51 a.m. Feb. 26 in the 3900 block of Stacker Place, after the resident was awakened by a noise in the kitchen and observed a male standing in his living room. When the complainant yelled, the suspect fled out of the house and into a beige sedan, which sped away from the scene. Nothing is missing from the house.

deputies were dispatched out to the scene of an unwanted person at an address on Stillwater Road. While conducting computer research en route, deputies were advised of a domestic abuse no-contact order violation between the parties involved.

• D eputies took multiple complaints from an address on Woodland Drive at 2:10 a.m. and 5:02 a.m. Feb. 28 about threats being made.

A motorist was pulled over Feb. 28 in the 7000 block of Hilton Trail N. for centerline violation.

• A delivery person reported being followed by an unknown male on Ledgestone Drive at 5:09 p.m. March 1. The complainant told deputies he thought he was being shadowed in the interest of road rage and just wanted to report the incident. Although the situation had de-escalated, deputies advised the complainant that they would conduct extra patrol to try and locate the suspect vehicle.

• D eputies were dispatched out March 1 to support a landlord serving an eviction notice to a tenant on Dwinnell Avenue. With deputies at his side, the landlord served the notice without incident.

A motorist of undisclosed identity was arrested for DWI at 10:36 p.m. March 2 in the area of Maple Street and Warner Avenue N. after deputies on patrol observed a speeding vehicle and conducted a traffic stop to administer standard field sobriety tests.

D eputies arrested a motorist on a misdemeanor warrant at 11:40 p.m. March 2 in the area of Long Lake Road and Century Avenue N.

• A motorist in the area of Century Avenue and Woodland Drive was cited at 2:41 p.m. March 3 for driving after suspension.

Pine Springs

A motorist in the area of Hilton Trail N. and 66th Street N. was cited at 10:05 p.m. March 2 for driving after revocation and failure to provide proof of insurance, after deputies observed a vehicle displaying expired registration and conducted a traffic stop.

Upcoming Games

April 4-9 vs. Iowa Cubs

April 18-23 vs. Scranton/WB Railriders

• A M inneapolis man reported being robbed Feb. 26 in the 4500 block of Meehan Drive after being a passenger in a car with an acquaintance. The car journey began in Minneapolis and toured several cities. However, when the vehicle turned onto Meehan Drive, he was assaulted. One of his shoes and and his sunglasses were kept inside the vehicle, while he was left at the side of the road.

Upcoming Games

A v iolation of an order for protection was reported at 12:08 a.m. March 3 in the 2500 block of Taylor Avenue, after a photo was posted on Facebook.

AN INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 29

Where: Shoreview Library, 4560

Victoria St. N.

Details: Guest speaker is Brian Anderson, a local engineer who has transitioned to 100% electric transportation. EV’s will be on display in the parking lot at 6 p.m.

Contact: bit.ly/NEMCA0329

TURF ALTERNATIVES WITH BLUE

THUMB

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 30

Where: Online

Details: Learn from expert presenters about the steps to converting a traditional turf grass monoculture lawn into a bee lawn or other turf

SPIRIT OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

5K, 5 MILE RACE

When: 9 a.m. Saturday, April 1

Where: Boatworks Commons, 4495 Lake Ave. S., White Bear Lake

Details: Flat and fast course on paved trail along the lake. Early registration incentives. Proceeds support Strive scholarships for White Bear Lake Area High School students; registration online.

Contact: midwestevents.com

alternatives that promotes pollinator health and water quality. Registration required. Contact: vlawmo.org/events/turfalternatives-bluethumb-workshop

NORTHERN LIGHTS JURIED ART

EXHIBITION COMMUNITY RECEPTION

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

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.

Details: View 113 pieces of artwork and hear discussion from the judges about how they were selected. Contact: whitebeararts.org

ZEPHYR GALA

When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, March 31

Where: JX Venue, 123 2nd St. N., Stillwater

Details: Mahtomedi Area Education Foundation’s signature fundraising event that raises funds for classroom innovation, academic excellence, and basic needs for students in Mahtomedi Public Schools.

Contact: maefgives.org

A CAPPELLA SHOWCASE

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 1

Where: Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, Mahtomedi High School, 8000 75th St. N.

Details: Performances by A Cappella groups from the high school, local colleges, the North Star Chorus, and Lake Country Chorus. Tickets online; free student ticket with adult ticket. Contact: 651-605-1124 or wildwoodartistseries.com

THE MUSIC OF LIFE

When: 4 p.m. Sunday, April 2

Where: Salvation Army-Lakewood Temple, 2080 Woodlynn Ave., Maplewood

Details: 15th Annual Spring concert by the Glad Tidings Choir.

Contact: 651-226-4289

VADNAIS HEIGHTS LIONS BELGIAN WAFFLE BREAKFAST

When: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, April 2

Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 County Rd. F

Details: Waffle breakfast, Vadnais Fire Dept. open house with fire truck tours, Kidsight vision screening, Can-do Canines, bike raffle, used

eyeglasses and hearing aid collection and more.

Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com

“BUT IT FELL IN MY CART!” TIPS FOR SMARTER PLANT PLANNING

When: 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 11

Where: Online

Details: Join guest speaker Diana Grundeen to discuss the difference between plant shopping and plant deigning, and ways to get the most out landscapes. Free.

Contact: vlawmo.org/events/it-fell-mycart-tips-smarter-plant-planning/ NORTH SUBURBAN NEIGHBORS CLUB SPRING COFFEE

When: 10 a.m. Thursday, April 13

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

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

Contact: 651-247-9601

THE JOLLY POPS CONCERT

When: 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, April 13

Where: St. Jude of the Lake Catholic School, Mahtomedi

Details: Free children’s concert with nationally-known dad band, The Jolly Pops, hosted by Lake Area Discovery Center. Activities, snacks and preschool tours. Bring a stuffed animal. RSVP.

Contact: bit.ly/3E7Y7LC

April

April 2: Unreality

April 9: Are sin, disease and death real?

April 16: Doctrine of Atonement

April 23: Probation After Death

April 30: Everlasting Punishment

Testimony meetings every Wednesday at 7:30pm in person

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:

Saints Exteriors

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

2007 Co Rd E East White Bear Lake, MN 55110

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Saints Exteriors LLC

2007 Co Rd E East White Bear Lake, MN 55110

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

Dated: March 16, 2023

Signed: Marcel Vasquez

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 22 and 29, 2023.

CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS

This may affect your 2024 property taxes.

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Birchwood Village shall meet on April 11, 2023 from 6-6:30 PM at Village Hall, 207 Birchwood Ave. Birchwood Village, MN 55110. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether taxable property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the assessor, and also to determine whether corrections need to be made.

If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If you are still not satisfied with the valuation or classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization. The board shall review the valuation, classification, or both if necessary, and shall correct it as needed. Generally, an appearance before your local board of appeal and equalization is required by law before an appeal can be taken to your county board of appeal and equalization. For more information, call the Washington County assessor’s office at 651-430-6175.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 29, 2023.

CITY OF GEM LAKE RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ON REQUESTED ORDINANCE AMENDMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of Gem Lake, Ramsey County, Minnesota shall consider an application request from White Bear Montessori School for an amendment of Section 15 of the Consolidated Land Use Ordinance; increasing the maximum enrollment from 120 students to 182, and amending the structure coverage and green space requirements. The hearing will take place at the Planning Commission meeting on the 11th day of April, 2023, at approximately 7:00pm at the Gem Lake City Hall. A copy of the application and staff report will be available from the City Clerk approximately one week prior to the hearing.

Gretchen Artig-Swomley, Mayor

Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 29, 2023.

CITY OF MAHTOMEDI WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA AD FOR BIDS

WEDGEWOOD PARK COURT CONSTRUCTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bids for the construction of Wedgewood Park Court Construction will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Mahtomedi will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 312-626-6799 and entering Meeting ID 978 1928 3193 and Passcode 659833. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening.

The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of the following

200 C Y Select Granular

600 S Y Geotextile Fabric

approximate quantities:

455 S Y 3.5 inch Bituminous Court Pavement w/Color Coat Surfacing

400 L F 4 inch Concrete Pavement

264 L F 18” x 5” Concrete Maintenance Curb

264 L F 8’ High Chain-link Fence (Black Clad)

2 E A Pickleball Net Systems

The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Mahtomedi shall comply with the provisions of the statute.

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www. questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #8433395 on the website’s Project Search page.

The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources.

Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.

The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days.

For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

DATED: March 29, 2023

BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL

s/s Scott Neilson, City Administrator, Mahtomedi, MN

Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 29, 2023.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624 WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

From: Kraus-Anderson Construction Company acting on behalf of White Bear Lake Area Schools (Owner).

• The work will be constructed in accordance with the Project Schedule starting summer 2023.

Work Included in this Offering: We are presently soliciting competitive “Prime Contract Bids” for the following portions of work as defined herein.

All portions of the Work as defined in Section 01 12 10.

Bid Date and Location: Electronic Bids will be received at KA Bid Express Webpage: https://www.bidexpress.com/businesses/39702/home free of charge to Contractors. Bids will be received until 2:00pm on April 6th , 2023. Please join us for a Zoom at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/

KAZoomISD624RoadImp

Password: 494440

Bid Security: Each bid shall be accompanied by Bid Security in form of certified check, cashier’s check or bid bond in amount of five (5) percent of Base Bid submitted, made payable to Owner, as guarantee that Bidder will, if awarded, enter into Contract in accordance with Contract Documents and submitted Bid.

QUESTIONS SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO

Questions shall be submitted to Kraus-Anderson Construction Company at the address below on or before the Date indicated above.

AJ Lillesve Kraus-Anderson Construction 501 South Eighth Street Minneapolis, MN 55404 Phone: 612-332-7281

AJ.Lillesve@KrausAnderson.com

Alex Titterud Kraus-Anderson Construction 501 South Eighth Street Minneapolis, MN 55404 Phone: 612-332-7281 Alex.Titterud@KrausAnderson.com

AVAILABILITY OF BIDDING DOCUMENTS

Location for Review and Examination: Bidding Documents (Project Manual, Drawings, and other Contract Documents) are available at the locations indicated below for review and examination:

Builder’s Exchanges and Plan Rooms:

MHC Dodge Plans MEDA 3315 Central Avenue 250 Second Avenue South, #106 Hot Springs, AR 71913 Minneapolis, MN 55401

Phone: 501-321-2956 Phone: 612-259-6561 joanna.dahn@mhfi.com planroom@meda.net

Albert Lea Area Builders Exch. ISQFT & AGC Of MN Planroom 2580 Bridge Avenue 525 Park Street, #110 Albert Lea, MN 56007 St. Paul, MN 55103

Phone: 507-373-3938 Phone: 800-364-2059 agcminnesota@isqft.com

Builders Exchange of St. Cloud Mid-Minnesota Builders Exchange

110 – 6th Avenue South 2104 Highway 12 East St.Cloud, MN 56301 Willmar, MN 56201

Phone: 320-252-5832 Phone: 320-235-0279 administration@ stcloudbuildersexchange.com chamber@willmarareachamber.com

Builders Exchange of Rochester Austin Builders Exchange 108 Elton Hills Lane NW 329 N Main Street, Suite 102 Rochester, MN 55901 Austin, MN 55912

Phone: 507-282-6531 Phone: 507-437-4561 planroom@bexroch.com admin@austincoc.com

Mankato Builders Exchange Minnesota Builders Exchange (MBEX) 500 S Broad Street, Suite 100 1123 Glenwood Avenue Mankato, MN 56001 Minneapolis, MN 55405

Phone: 507-387-2002 Phone: 612-381-2620 projects@mbex.org

South Central Builders Exchange Southwest Builders Exchange 1240 Lake Avenue 425 W Main Street Fairmont, MN 56031 Marshall, MN 56258

Phone: 507-235-6619 Phone: 507-537-1489

Procurement of Documents for Bidders on Prime Contracts:

Prime Bidders may obtain electronic Bidding Documents at no charge from: Building Connected Please contact Taylor Becker at taylor.becker@krausanderson.com or 612-255-2375 to receive an invite from Building Connected.

Examination of Documents: Bidder shall carefully examine entire content of Bidding Documents to become thoroughly familiar with the documents and project requirements. Refer to Instructions to Bidders for additional requirements.

Examination of the Site: Bidders shall make arrangements with the Construction Manager to visit the project site to obtain first-hand knowledge of existing conditions, including existing utilities and services, obstacles which may be encountered and all other conditions relative to the Work to be performed

OTHER CONDITIONS

Time of Completion: Refer to Section 01 32 10 - Bids shall reflect all costs necessary to meet this schedule requirement.

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.

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 22 and 29, 2023.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110 AD FOR BIDS AV & TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE– BEST VALUE

INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION

From: Kraus-Anderson Construction Company acting on behalf of White Bear Lake Area Schools (Owner).

Project: White Bear Lake Area High School – AV & Technology Package–

Best Value

Key Dates:

• Pre Bid Date: Thursday, April 4th, 2023 @ 2:30 PM 4969 Division, Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 (KA Garage)

• Cut off Date for Questions: Thursday, April 6th, 2023 @ 2:00 PM

• Bid Due Date: Thursday, April 13th, 2023 @ 2:00 PM

Method of Delivery: Kraus-Anderson Construction Company has been selected as an Agency Construction Manager by White Bear Lake Area Schools to administer the construction of White Bear Lake Area High School located at 5045 Division Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

• The overall project consists of AV/Technology packages for the new auditorium addition & existing building renovation work. This current construction and renovation has started.

• The work will be constructed in accordance with the Project Schedule.

Work Included in this Offering: We are presently soliciting competitive “Prime Contract Bids” for the following portions of work as defined herein.

All portions of the Work as defined in Section 01 12 10.

Bid Date and Location: Electronic Bids will be received at KA Bid Express Webpage: https://www.bidexpress.com/businesses/39702/home, free of charge to Contractors. Bids will be received until 2:00pm, on April 13th, 2023. Please join us for a WebEx/Zoom at the following link: https://tinyurl. com/KAZoomISD624AVTech

Meeting ID: 846 0144 4720

Passcode: 738832

Bid Security: Each bid shall be accompanied by Bid Security in form of certified check, cashier’s check or bid bond in amount of five (5) percent of Base Bid submitted, made payable to Owner, as guarantee that Bidder will, if awarded, enter into Contract in accordance with Contract Documents and submitted Bid.

QUESTIONS SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO

Questions shall be submitted to Kraus-Anderson Construction Company at the address below on or before the Date indicated above.

Alex Titterud Kraus-Anderson Construction 501 South Eighth Street Minneapolis, MN 55404 Phone: 612-332-7281

Alex.Titterud@KrausAnderson.com

AVAILABILITY OF BIDDING DOCUMENTS Location for Review and Examination: Bidding Documents (Project Manual, Drawings, and other Contract Documents) are available at the locations indicated below for review and examination:

Builder’s Exchanges and Plan Rooms MHC Dodge Plans MEDA 3315 Central Avenue 250 Second Avenue South, #106 Hot Springs, AR 71913 Minneapolis, MN 55401

Phone: 501-321-2956 Phone: 612-259-6561

joanna.dahn@mhfi.com planroom@meda.net

Albert Lea Area Builders Exch. ISQFT & AGC Of MN Planroom 2580 Bridge Avenue 525 Park Street, #110 Albert Lea, MN 56007 St. Paul, MN 55103

Phone: 507-373-3938 Phone: 800-364-2059

agcminnesota@isqft.com

Builders Exchange of St. Cloud Mid-Minnesota Builders Exchange 110 – 6th Avenue South 2104 Highway 12 East St.Cloud, MN 56301 Willmar, MN 56201

Phone: 320-252-5832 Phone: 320-235-0279

administration@ stcloudbuildersexchange.com chamber@willmarareachamber.com

Builders Exchange of Rochester Austin Builders Exchange 108 Elton Hills Lane NW 329 N Main Street, Suite 102 Rochester, MN 55901 Austin, MN 55912

Phone: 507-282-6531 Phone: 507-437-4561

planroom@bexroch.com admin@austincoc.com

Mankato Builders Exchange Minnesota Builders Exchange (MBEX) 500 S Broad Street, Suite 100 1123 Glenwood Avenue Mankato, MN 56001 Minneapolis, MN 55405

Phone: 507-387-2002 Phone: 612-381-2620 projects@mbex.org

South Central Builders Exchange Southwest Builders Exchange 1240 Lake Avenue 425 W Main Street

Fairmont, MN 56031 Marshall, MN 56258

Phone: 507-235-6619 Phone: 507-537-1489

Procurement of Documents for Bidders on Prime Contracts:

Prime Bidders may obtain electronic Bidding Documents at no charge from: Building Connected Please contact Taylor Becker at taylor.becker@krausanderson.com or 612-255-2375 to receive an invite from Building Connected.

Examination of Documents: Bidder shall carefully examine entire content of Bidding Documents to become thoroughly familiar with the documents and project requirements. Refer to Instructions to Bidders for additional requirements.

Examination of the Site: Bidders shall make arrangements with the Construction Manager to visit the project site to obtain first-hand knowledge of existing conditions, including existing utilities and services, obstacles which may be encountered and all other conditions relative to the Work to be performed

OTHER CONDITIONS

Time of Completion: Refer to Section 01 32 10 - Bids shall reflect all costs necessary to meet this schedule requirement.

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.

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 29 and April 5, 2023.

MAHTOMEDI PUBLIC SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 832 MAHTOMEDI, MINNESOTA

AD FOR BIDS

Notice is hereby given by the School Board of Independent School District No. 832 located at Mahtomedi, Minnesota, that it will receive sealed proposals for the following:

2023 ISD 832 Mahtomedi Public Schools

Request for Proposals for Municipal Solid Waste, Single Stream Recycling, & Source Separated Organics Services

Hand delivered and time-stamped no later than:

June 2, 2023 1:00 PM Local Time

At the District Education Office, 1520 Mahtomedi Avenue, Mahtomedi, Minnesota 55155.

Mahtomedi Public Schools is soliciting proposals from qualified proposers to select and contract with a firm to provide the School District: (1) hauling and disposal of municipal solid waste; (2) collection, transportation and marketing of source separated recyclable materials in a single stream recycling system; and (3) collection, transportation, and composting of source separated organics.

All proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope or other container at the place and time indicated above. The proposer shall mark on the outside of the package with: (1) the name and address of the proposer; and (2) the title: “Proposal for Mahtomedi Public Schools Municipal Solid Waste, Recycling, and Source Separated Organics Services.”

Mahtomedi Public Schools will issue the Request for Proposals on April 19, 2023. Proposers may download the Request for Proposals from the School District’s website at: https://www.mahtomedi.k12.mn.us/page/3295

If proposers are having difficulty in downloading the documents, contact Leslie Lovas, at 651-407-2002 or leslie.lovas@isd832.net

Proposers are required to attend a mandatory pre-proposal meeting on April 24, 2023 at 1:00 to 3:30pm at Stillwater Area Public Schools District Central Services Building, Room A&B, 1875 Greeley Street South, Stillwater, MN 55082. To attend this meeting, RSVP no later than April 21, 2023 to Jodi Taitt at jodi@ecoconsilium.com. Attendance at this meeting is mandatory to submit a proposal.

The School District reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals or parts of such proposals and to waive any informalities or irregularities in submitting proposals. No proposals shall be withdrawn subsequent to the opening of proposals without the consent of Mahtomedi Public Schools for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of closing proposals.

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 29 and April 5, 2023.

US STORAGE CENTERS – WHITE BEAR

NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE

Please take notice US Storage Centers – White Bear located at 1828 Buerkle Road White Bear, MN 55110 intends to hold an auction of storage units in default of payment. The sale will occur as an online auction via www. storagetreasures.com on 4/19/2023 at 10:00 AM. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents are household goods and furnishings. Patricia Barrios; David Ault; Kelly L Brunner; Adebayo Adelagun; Shelly Kirkup; Cindy Johnson; Jeffery Blahut; Juan Martinez; Thuy Huyen Nguyen. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 29 and April 5, 2023.

Hockey players help make night fun in council chambers

the concentration of THC has increased more than 30% in commercial products where cannabis is legal. “People don’t realize what it is, they think of what it was,” Heather said. The stated reason for legalization, the black market, will not go away, she noted: if cannabis is taxed, kids will look for cheaper cannabis on the black market. “We’re not saying people can’t smoke weed; we’re concerned about kids under 25.” The mayor promised that the city would be working with the city attorney to draft an ordinance, should recreational cannabis be legalized.

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

MAHTOMEDI—“It looks like we have a fun night ahead of us,” Mayor Richard Brainerd predicted as he gaveled the March 21 Mahtomedi City Council meeting to order.

Dignitaries and involved citizens crowded council chambers to participate in and celebrate activities happening in the community. The city immediately proclaimed March 21 as Mahtomedi High School Boy’s Hockey Day as a tribute to the team’s championship season.

It is the duty of the mayor and City Council to honor and recognize its noteworthy citizens, Brainerd said. Mahtomedi High School has a rich tradition of talented people and teams that have achieved academic, artistic and athletic achievements, he said.

The double overtime 6-5 win over Warroad on March 11, as well as the team’s 2020 Class A State High School Boys Hockey championship, inspired the the city to recognize its own. Brainerd presented coaches and team representatives with the proclamation plaque, the original photo of the team as it appeared on the front page of the White Bear Press on March 15, and two copies of that March 15 edition.

After updating council on legislative proceedings at the state Capitol, Sen. Karin Housley presented her own resolution honoring the hockey team and invited the entire team down to her offices at the Capitol to receive it. Housley reminded all in attendance that her husband, Phil Housley, had a stellar career in the National Hockey League (NHL) and later coached the Stillwater High School boys hockey team. Although he is a member of the the NHL Hall of Fame and U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame, Phil told his wife he feels left out by not being a member of a state championship hockey team, Housley said.

Other action from the March 21 meeting:

• During her 11 years in the Minnesota Senate, Housley has been on committees working on jobs, bonding and homelessness. Each of the 67 senators must represent an equal number of people, and Mahtomedi was added to Housley’s district, she said. “And I am lucky to have Mahtomedi as part of my district,” she said.

With approximately eight weeks left of the legislative session, lawmakers are spending long days at the Capitol to decide what to do with the $17.5 billion surplus and the long lines of people with their hands out for part of it, Housley said. She said that earlier that day, as a member of the bonding committee, she spent almost four hours hearing requests for money. At the same time, Housley promised to continue to fight for tax relief. Minnesota is one of only 11 states without full exemption for Social Security benefits, she said. The universal school breakfast and lunch bill is good, “but what will it cost school districts?” she wondered. Previously, government paid 12% of the bill to provide lunches, but now will pay for 100% of the students, she said.

• L egislators have been working on a catalytic converter theft bill, relevant because Washington County has been a highly targeted area. Among other issues, Housley said she remains a firm “no” on the legalization of recreational cannabis. The cannabis bill was moving along, but now is at a standstill, she said. With the issue divided by a single vote in the Senate, Housley and other senators are working to educate the Senate not to pass the bill. A local couple, Randy and Heather Bacchus, have appeared at the Capitol to talk about the harm caused by cannabis. As cities prepare to pass “opt out” ordinances post-legalization of recreational cannabis, the couple testified to its harmful effects on young people struggling with mental illness. Their son, Randy, died from cannabis-induced psychosis at the age of 21 in July 2021. Although the pending bill will set the legal age at 21, the brains of young people are not fully developed until the age of 25, Heather Bacchus said. The marijuana of today isn’t the marijuana of the 1970s; now, THC concentration in products makes them far more potent. Over the past decade,

• Washington County Commissioner Stan Karwoski attended the meeting to thank the community for being engaged in the CSAH 12 (the former STH 244) turnback process. “It takes a partnership to get a road like this done,” he said, acknowledging the thoughtful suggestions that went into the total reconstruction of the road to the west of downtown up to Century Avenue. The project took place during the summer of 2022 and ended with the Oct. 10 ribbon-cutting ceremony. This was the first project with virtual open houses. Through social media, there were more than 10,000 online interactions. The $4.9 million project covered 2 miles and used 9,000 tons of new pavement. The project contractor received an award for environmental excellence due to the methods of erosion control. Community feedback initiated several safety enhancements, such as four concrete pedestrian islands, crosswalks, trails and stoplights. The crosswalks will be monitored during the summer of 2023 for possible adjustments. The crosswalk to Lincolntown Avenue will receive particular attention, as there are a number of safety concerns.

T he community has a new representative on the Metropolitan Council. Mahtomedi resident Gail Cederberg has been appointed by the governor to represent District 12, and was sworn in one week ago. District 12 covers the area southward from Forest Lake to Cottage Grove, including Mahtomedi. The Metropolitan Council, formed in 1976, is a planning organization for the sevencounty metropolitan area in areas of wastewater, parks, city planning and more. Cederberg, who has a professional background in issues related to ground and surface water, appeared at the meeting to introduce herself and receive input from the public. She invited all community stakeholders to invite her to their meetings, especially pertaining to issues on the horizon such as bus routes, the Highway 120 turnback and water supply.

• A s a heads up to motorists, walkers and bikers up and down Old Wildwood Road — there will be five new driveways to watch out for as well as 76 fewer mature trees, after council approved a major subdivision. The development agreement for the 4.7-acre property at 313 Old Wildwood Road has nine conditions. The single-family home that used to stand on that parcel will be developed into five luxury homes, ranging in price from $1,250,000 to $1,999,000. However, parking in the middle of the biking and walking trail or even at the side of the road will not be tolerated, as part of the developer’s agreement.

The developer, Steve Zawadski, on behalf of property owner Owasso Beach LLC, must plant a mix of 41 new trees in keeping with the variety of trees that currently exist. The developer is also required to establish suitable parking and staging areas within the property during all phases of construction.

• Mahtomedi is physically growing in land area, after the city formally annexed a property on Wildwood Road (CSAH 12) that belonged to the city of White Bear Lake. As part of a joint resolution with its neighbor, Mahtomedi must take the first action, which will be followed by a resolution of detachment on the part of White Bear Lake. The property, leased by one of the Chuck & Don’s stores, is completely surrounded by Mahtomedi properties. The annexed property will be taxed by Mahtomedi and receive utilities from White Bear Lake. During the CSAH12/ STH244 reconstruction, issues with the sidewalk in front of that property prompted the cities to take a look at this situation, Brainerd said.

• Residents in the south end of town have reason to feel a bit safer when crossing Lincolntown Avenue at Wildridge Road, after council directed city staff to draft a proposal to install a rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB), a curb cutout and sidewalk, and a striped pedestrian crossing at and near the busy intersection. Longtime residents John and Susan Carr gave a presentation outlining the sightline hazards for pedestrians and bikers crossing at that intersection. The crossing is an important part of the route used by students biking to O.H. Anderson through Katherine Abbott Park. “It’s a little difficult to see if cars are coming or not,” said Julia Finger, a student who bikes to the elementary school. Two solar-powered RRFB’s will cost approximately $7,000, and the sidewalk approximately the same amount. Finance Director Scott Schaefer said the city has the funds to pay for these safety upgrades. City Engineer John Sachi said that council could expect a change order for review at an upcoming meeting.

• T he city’s advisory commissions have been refreshed, after council reappointed and appointed the following members, each for a three-year term starting on April 1, 2023 and ending on March 31, 2026: Appointed on the Environmental Commission is Christine Ahmad-Maples; on the Finance Commission, Mike Bromelkamp, Roger Humphrey and Bob Pocrnich; on the Parks Commission, Anna Costello and Stacey Fischer; and on the Planning Commission, Alex Rogosheske and Dan Soler.

• City code provides that if no building permit has been issued on a project within one year from the date a variance was issued, that variance becomes null and void, unless council grants an extension of the variance. Council granted that extension for the property located at 317 Wedgewood Drive. In 2022, the owners applied for two variances to construct an addition to the principal structure on their property, and council approved the variances on June 21, 2022. The owners have advised city staff that the addition project is on hold, but they anticipate construction in the spring of 2024.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

Ramsey

Minnesota; togeth-

of the adjoining vacated alley lying between the Southerly extensions across said vacated alley of the West line of said Lot 6 and the East line of said Lot 5. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2662 STILLWATER ST, WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP, MN 55110 PROPERTY I.D: 12.30.22.41.0057 COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Ramsey THE AMOUNT

with the North

CLAIMED TO BE DUE ON THE MORTGAGE ON THE DATE OF THE NO-

TICE: Two Hundred Ninety-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Seven and 66/100 ($293,887.66) THAT no action or proceeding has been instituted at law to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof; that there has been compliance with all pre-foreclosure notice and acceleration requirements of said mortgage, and/or applicable statutes; PURSUANT, to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE:

10:00AM on May 4, 2023 PLACE OF SALE: Ramsey County City Hall, 25 West 4th Street, Suite 150, St. Paul, MN 55102 to pay the debt then secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any actually paid by the mortgagee, on the premises and the costs and disbursements allowed by law. The time allowed by law for redemption by said mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns is 6.00 months from the date of sale. If Mortgage is not reinstated under Minn. Stat. Section580.30 or the property is not redeemed under Minn. Stat. Section580.23, the Mortgagor must vacate the property on or before 11:59 p.m. on November 4, 2023, or the next business day if November 4, 2023 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. “THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.” Dated: March 15, 2023 U.S. Bank National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely as trustee for RMTP Trust, Series 2021 Cottage-TT-V Randall S. Miller and Associates, PLLC Attorneys for Assignee of Mortgage/Mortgagee

Sen. Karin Housley congratulates Mahtomedi hockey players and invited them to the Capitol.

OBITUARY

Robert A. Olson

Age 83, of White Bear Lake, MN

Passed away March 14, 2023

Preceded in death by wife, Mary and many family members.

Survived by children Barbara (Bernie Flanaghan, William, Cherie (Bruce) Peterson; grandchildren Alisha (Blake), Amy (Ryanfiance) & David; and many

SCHOOL BRIEF

New high school principal announced

The White Bear Lake Area School District has announced that Russell Reetz has been chosen to be principal of the unified White Bear Lake Area High School when it opens in the fall of 2024.

“He is a visionary principal who will lead us during this historic time, guided by his strong understanding of the value of relationships, meaningful collaboration and the importance of school culture,” said Superintendent Wayne Kazmierczak.

Reetz most recently served as an associate principal at Eden Prairie High School, and in director of activities roles throughout his career. He is a former physical education and health teacher, and has coached football and track and field. He will begin his role with the district this July.

EASTER WOR SHIP

extended family members.

Retired from 3M and the White Bear Lake Fire Department, shy of 24 years.

Bob wishes to thank his many physician’s that enabled him to live 3 decades with cancer. Our father was dedicated to his community and, most of all loved God and his family. Mass of Christian Burial with be 11AM Wed., March 29 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake, MN with visitation 1 hour prior to Mass. Luncheon to follow. Private interment.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to American Cancer Society. www.cancer.org

COMMUNITY BRIEF

It’s

time to get rid of unused medications

Area law enforcement agencies are teaming up with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22. The day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Check with your local police department for more details.

Monday 4.3

Taize Evening Prayer @ 7 pm*

Tuesday 4.4

Tenebrae: From Light into Darkness @ 7 pm

Wednesday 4.5

Healing Service w/Eucharist @ 7 pm

Maundy Thursday 4.6

Foot Washing, Holy Eucharist, & Stripping of the Altar @ 7 pm *

Christ the Servant Lutheran Church

Palm Sunday Worship: April 2 at 9 a.m.

Easter Sunday Worship: April 9, 7:30 & 9 a.m.

Pastor Jon Yurk Worship with us this Easter!

3676 Centerville Rd., Vadnais Heights, MN 651-429-6595 | www.cslcvh.org

Good Friday 4.7

Liturgy for Good Friday @ 12 pm & 7 pm

Prayers at the 3rd Hour @ 3 pm

Holy Saturday 4.8

9 am Prayers at the Tomb 7 pm The Great Easter Vigil* Easter Day 4.9

April 2th at 10:15 a.m.

Palm Sunday Service

Palm Sunday Service

April 2th at 10:15 a.m.

April 2th at 10:15 a.m.

Good Friday Service

Good Friday Service

April 7th at 6:30 p.m.

Good Friday Service

April 7th at 6:30 p.m.

Easter Sunday Service

April 7th at 6:30 p.m.

Easter Sunday Service

April 9th at 10:15 a.m.

Easter Sunday Service

April 9th at 10:15 a.m. 930 Mahtomedi Avenue Mahtomedi, MN 55115

April 9th at 10:15 a.m. 930 Mahtomedi Avenue Mahtomedi, MN 55115

930 Mahtomedi Avenue Mahtomedi, MN 55115

Above: In a display of contrasting elements unique to the region, Sylvie Olson, 2, wears a snowsuit while soaking up the afternoon sunshine and savoring her first candy-sprinkled Cup and Cone ice cream treat of the season.

At left: Bennett Olson, 6, finds a high vantage point atop a remaining pile of snow to enjoy a frozen confection.

Press Pubs goes to Washington

Two bipartisan journalism bills will soon be introduced in the 118th Congress. The Journalism Competition and Preservation Act, or JCPA, is authored by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (center) of Minnesota, and is supported by an even mix of Republicans and Democrats. Matt McMillan (left), America’s Newspapers board member and CEO of Press Publications, and Dean Ridings (right), CEO of America’s Newspapers, meet to discuss the role of local journalism in communities.

EASTER MASSES

Holy Thursday, April 6 The Lord’s Supper 7:00 pm (with incense)

Good Friday, April 7

Holy

April 8 Easter Vigil Mass 8:00 pm (with incense)

Easter Sunday, April 9 Mass 9:00 am (with incense) & 11:00 am with overflow in Kohler Hall

700 Mahtomedi Ave Mahtomedi, MN 55115 651-426-3245

www.stjudeofthelake.org

April 9, Sunday 7*, 9 & 10:45am*

andArts Culture2023

EMERGING ARTIST BEN STORELEE

Ever since Ben Storelee could talk, he’s been a singer. “He’s always loved music and singing,” observed Ben’s mom Gina. “When he found theater, something clicked.” Ben’s dad Jeremy describes him as “a human juke box.”

Now a sixth grader at Central Middle School, Ben has been singing and acting since playing a cornstalk at Lincoln Elementary in the musical “Oklahoma.” As small a role as it was, he was hooked.

Children’s Performing Arts (CPA) has become Ben’s home away from home. “I feel like I belong there,” said the young stage enthusiast, who enjoys socializing with like-minded peers and the adult directors. He also likes how “everyone knows your name.”

The budding actor is already building an impressive resume of

DIRECTOR TAKING DIFFERENT PATH

performances. He just finished playing Bert in CPA’s “Mary Poppins” and had a role as Cruella deVil in Disney’s “Descendants: The Musical” last fall. He’s also playing Miss Hannigan in “Annie” next month at the middle school. It’s his 15th performance. Playing the Disney antagonist

Longtime director Carrie Carlson is retiring from Children’s Performing Arts (CPA). After 16 years as a parent volunteer, board member and primary (K thru 6) director, she is going to back to school to become a school psychologist.

“CPA has been amazing,” said Carlson, a Forest Lake mother of two who started with the performing arts group when it was a grassroots organization run solely by parent volunteers. Carlson said it’s time to pursue an even bigger passion than theater. “CPA is so big now and offers so much programming, it’s time to step away and let it grow and develop. I’m going to let someone else take the reins.”

Carlson has seen first-hand the impact of theater on youth. “Kids fundamentally change how they relate to people after going on stage,” she said. “I’d have kids come into rehearsal with their hoods up. They wouldn’t even look at me. Some don’t know how to talk to people face to face. To see them now, they are different kids.”

“Mary Poppins” was Carlson’s last show at CPA. It was her 10th major production. “I wanted to retire on a high note,” she said. The former staff member will continue to advocate for arts programs, added Carlson. “I know fundamentally how it enhances kids’ lives.”

APRIL EVENTS

Cruella was Ben’s favorite role to date. Did he find playing a woman daunting? “Not at all,” he replied. “It was one of my first female roles and I was proud of that. She was funny and an outstanding character.”

Ben never really cared for sports, according to Gina, who feels performing on stage is a perfect alternative. “Being in theater is just like being on a team,” she pointed out. “The kids have to work together and it teaches confidence. I also love that CPA is all inclusive and accepting of who kids are. You are in CPA no matter what, even before the audition starts. We are lucky to have it.”

Gina figures Ben gets his musical talents from dad Jeremy, a middle school teacher who plays and sings professionally. Jeremy appreciates how both CPA staff and parent volunteers mentor and guide students. “CPA has helped Ben gain in maturity and responsibility,” he said. “They learn skills that will serve them for years.”

Ben’s goal is to pursue the spotlight as a professional. And no surprise, he’d love to someday appear on Broadway.

CPA’s primary director, Carrie Carlson, has no doubt Ben will continue to blossom as a performer: “He has an amazing voice and I’m super proud of him for embracing different types of roles. He was hysterical as Cruella so I know he’ll have great depth. It will be fun to watch to see where he grows.”

ARTS CENTER’S INTERIM EXECUTIVE BRINGS FAMILIARITY

George Brophy brings valuable experience to his temporary role as White Bear Center for the Arts’ interim executive director. He has served as an interim CEO several times for similar organizations, plus he knows the neighborhood. His son and daughter-in-law live in White Bear Lake; in fact, it was Heidi Brophy who suggested giving George a call after Suzi Hudson retired. Heidi serves as the center’s treasurer.

“I understand small business, revenue, budgets, cash flow, in a sense how to perpetuate the purpose of an enterprise,” George said. “And I care even more about staff. I want this to be a place where people want to work.”

Originally from Chicago, George and his wife Katie consider themselves southern Minnesotans. George ran an economic development nonprofit for 20 years in Austin so he’s familiar with not-for-profit organizations. He is also familiar with WBCA because the couple enjoy visiting places like museums, parks and art galleries and had been to the White Bear center before. “We are Minnesota Public Radio/ TPT kind of folks,” George said.

Brophy considers the arts center unique in terms of its scale, especially considering it’s in a Twin Cities suburb. “Other upper Midwest arts centers that rank in similar

leagues (based on IRS tax forms) are in cities with much higher populations. We’re not talking about some sleepy time kind of place here,” he said. “This is a serious nonprofit.”

A firm has been hired and the search started to find a new executive director. Brophy figures it will take several months to fill the position. Two internal candidates are expected to apply.

As the arts center moves forward, Brophy and the board are looking for consistency in both “things that matter to the center,” and financial stability.

Although he’s been most pleasantly surprised by the level of philanthropy in the community, Brophy points out benefactors have been impacted by the economy, too. “When funds in a portfolio go down, so do contributions. This is a characteristic of change for which we’re having to deal,” he said.

“Most art centers in the suburbs do not have the philanthropic commitment this one has enjoyed,” Brophy continued. “It’s the separating characteristic that brings this arts center into the same league with cities of 100,000 or greater.”

Brophy looks forward to his remaining time leading the center in the short-term and enjoying the community in the longterm. He cares about the people and the place, he said, and credits the center’s success to a fantastic staff and motivated board, adding, “it’s an extraordinarily well recognized place.”

THEATRE’S INTERIM DIRECTOR PLAYS KEY ROLE DURING TRANSITION

The new interim executive director for Lakeshore Players Theatre has a big role these days. “The performing arts industry was hit hard by COVID and it’s still tough,” said Darby Lunceford. On the positive side, ticket sales are bouncing back after practically a two-year hiatus. “We should see our programs doing what we saw in our inaugural season in 201819.”

That’s great news for the community theater, which will soon begin a search for a

permanent director. “The board smartly decided to use this transition time to decide who the next leader should be,” said Lunceford, who explains his job is more in consulting, “to keep the organization moving forward as the board looks at the future.”

The Stillwater resident came to Lakeshore Players from The Phipps Center for the Arts in Hudson where he served as executive director. Prior to that role, he served as chief marketing officer at MN Opera and director of marketing and communications at Children’s Theater Company. His career spans 25 years in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors. He has worked with numerous arts organizations all over North America in a variety of roles from marketing services to consulting.

Board Chair Peggy Witthaus said Lunceford came “highly recommended” from previous Executive Director Rob Thomas and members of the board who had worked with him in the past.

“He brings an incredible wealth of management and development experience and has worked to build staff and programming for growing organizations,” she said.

“He loves a challenge and brings a visionary, yet practical approach to the theater.”

Lakeshore Players is experiencing significant growth in artistic quality, participation and access, Witthaus continued. She noted how such growth may lead to changes and expansion of the executive director’s role in the future.

“Having an ‘interim’ director role enabled us to quickly put leader-

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

OPEN AUDITIONS FOR PETER AND THE STARCATCHER AND HEATHERS

Hanifl Performing Arts Center

Early April

Auditions are open for Peter and the Starcatcher and Heathers. See www. childrensperformingartsmn.org for more information.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND: UNDER

CONSTRUCTION

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center

Black Box Theatre

April 6-8 at 7:00 P.M. & April 8 at 2:00

P.M.

A new version of the classic tale conceived & performed by an ensemble of teen collaborators. Come see “Alice” like you never have before!

MINNEAPOLIS GUITAR QUARTET CONCERT

White Bear Center for the Arts

Thursday, April 13, 7:00-8:30 PM

The Minneapolis Guitar Quartet performs music from Spain, Finland and Macedonia; this concert will include new arrangements of music by Bob Dylan, Nick Drake and jazz composer Hiromi Uehara, and a newly commissioned piece by Minnesota composer A.J. IsaacsonZvidzwa.

THE GIVER

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center

Black Box Theatre

April 14, 16, 21, 22 at 7:00 P.M. April 15, 22, 23 at 1:00 P.M.

A teen boy learns that everything is not as it seems in his once utopian world. A Kids & Family series production based on the popular novel, this show is recommended for ages 10+.

THE WOMEN WHO WROTE THE SONGS

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center

April 15 at 7:30 P.M. & April 16 at 2:30 P.M.

Songbook Live presents another fantastic concert of hits by Dolly Parton, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and more! Come hear the songs and learn about the great women behind them!

GLOBAL POETRY CELEBRATION

White Bear Center for the Arts

Date: Thursday, April 20, 6:30-8:30 PM

ship in place through a transition, addressing current needs and take a thoughtful approach to determining the ideal management structure for the future,” Witthaus said. “We are thrilled to have Darby in a leadership role as we move into the next phase of the theater’s growth.”

After working in all disciplines, Lunceford said it’s great to return to a place centered on theater and be on the “producer” side of the business. He also loves working with Lakeshore’s staff. “They are all artists,” he noted. “It’s a great culture here.”

As the board considers the next executive director’s job description, Lunceford said his role will be “fueling the fire. I want to give staff the resources they need because they’re the ones making the plays.”

Come watch a lineup of readers from the community each read a poem written in a language other than standard English, along with an English translation of the poem. Please join WBCA and St. Paul Almanac for an inspiring, international evening of poetry.

2023/2024 SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT PARTY

Hanifl Performing Arts Center

Tuesday, April 25th at 7:00PM

Join Children’s Performing Arts in announcing their upcoming season! There will be performances, refreshments, and fun!

HIGH SCHOOL VISUAL ARTS COMMUNITY RECEPTION

White Bear Center for the Arts

Thursday, April 27, 6:30-8:30 PM

Celebrate student artists during the community reception for the High School Visual Arts Exhibition. There will be an award ceremony beginning at 7:00 PM.

CARRIE CARLSON

DARBY LUNCEFORD

GEORGE BROPHY

BEN PLAYED BERT IN CPA’S RECENT PRODUCTION OF MARY POPPINS.

BEN STORELEE AS CRUELLA DE VIL IN DISNEY’S “DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL.”

NAMES IN THE NEWS

PAI Arts program receives award

White Bear Lake-based PAI (Phoenix Alternatives Inc.) has received statewide recognition for providing innovative programs and opportunities for individuals with disabilities through its Connecting the Dots program. The organization has been named as one of eight 2023 MOHR Choice Award Winners by The Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation (MOHR). Connecting the Dots is a curriculum

specifically for PAI participants that was designed by White Bear Center for the Arts’ (WBCA) teaching artist, Sylvia Roman. She brought ideas to two separate classes at all four of PAI’s sites, each of which supported 8 to 13 participants. PAI worked with WBCA to hold an exhibit opening, and invited participants to debut their work in a public space and take pride in their creativity and effort.

PAI was among eight employment services organizations to receive the honor.

Staff Writer

EQUAL

HOUSING

Scrap meta l appliance pick up 65 1-329-0815

chairs, brown upholstery, excellent condition, $250.

Let’s talk or txt! Nicki, 651-261-7340

OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce, limitation or discriminat ion based on race, co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper ill not kn owingly acept any ad vertising r real estate which is violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereinformed that all dw ellings advertised this newsp ap er are ailable on an equal oppor tunity basis To mplain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777.

The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75

NOW HIRING

SEASONAL MAINTENANCE WORKERS POSITIONS

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 am to 3:30 pm (subject to change between Memorial Day – Labor Day).

Salary starting at $20.00/hour. 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 – Friday, 7 am – 4:30 pm, at Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at “http:// www.whitebeartownship.org”

Application deadline: Open until positions filled.

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

Weather Tidbits

Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com

After 122 days, the Airport recorded under 1 inch of snow depth. Your yard may disagree. While southern sloped yards are becoming exposed, area yards still have 5-7 inches of snow cover. Our back yards are sheltered while the Airport snow-measuring area is open and prone to blowing which results in less snow cover. We’re slowly to break out of below normal temperatures. We’re slowing working our way up but it does seem to be dragging. A few more ups and downs in the temperature department is expected.

Astro note: Last Thursday night and early Friday morning was one of most spectacular views of the aurora we’ve seen in ages. I hope you were one of the ones who were able to view it.

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

GYMNASTICS

White Bear Lake gymnasts earning all-Section 4AA honors were junior Gracyn Lehner and sophomores Addy Mueller and Josie Mlejnek. Mueller made the all-Suburban East honor list. Getting honorable mentions were Mueller, Lehner, and Mlejnek, senior Elaera Knutson, junior Rachel Proffitt and seventh-grader Grace Mueller. The Bears had a 4-4 record. Their top score was 136.325 at the section for second place. Top individual scores were: all-around, Lehner 35.625, Addy Mueller 34.7 and Mlejnek 34.1; vault, Lehner 9.225, Addy Mueller 8.925 and Proffitt 8.7; bars, Addy Mueller 8.85, Lehner 8.625 and Mlejnek 8.45; beam, Lehner 9.025, Mlejnek 8.85 and Proffitt 8.7; and floor, Lehner 9.45, Mlejnek 8.975 and Grace Mueller 8.9.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake had three players on the all-Northwest Suburban Conference team after placing second with a 15-3 record and posting an overall 22-5 record. They are Blessing Adebisi, senior center; Jordyn Schmittdiel, junior forward; and Heidi Barber, junior forward. Getting honorable mentions were Cami Bachmeier, junior guard; Addison Post, sophomore guard; and

Abby O’Brien, sophomore guard. Schmittdiel led the Bears in scoring with 14.5 points per game. Barber averaged 9.6 points, Adebisi 8.3, Post 6.4and O’Brien 5.8. Adebisi was the top rebounder. Also, senior Anna Sommerhouse averaged 7.0 in 10 games and seventh-grader Sarah Poepard 6.8 in 14 games.

GIRLS HOCKEY

The top three scorers for White Bear Lake were Amanda Smythe with 12 goals and 16 assists for 28 points, Talia Domschot (7-15-22) and Ava Johnson (10-6-16). Maya Marston, senior goalie in her fourth season, compiled a .910 save percentage and 2.92 goals-against-average. The Bears were 9-17 overall and 5-11 in the SEC.

Track opens this week

White Bear Lake’s spring sports season is opening this week with two home track-and-field meets, and don’t worry about the weather — the Bears have a new facility located at the north campus that includes a five-lane mondo indoor fieldhouse and 10-lane outdoor track. The boys hosted Forest Lake and Roseville on Tuesday. The girls will host Mahtomedi, Mounds View, Roseville and Hudson on Thursday, 4 p.m.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK David Wolfseld

David Wolfseld capped his Mahtomedi hockey career with a state team championship and receiving the Herb Brooks Award, which goes to the state tournament player best representing the values and characteristics of the great coach. Over the last two seasons, the 5-foot-10, 175-pound forward logged 33 goals and 59 assists (102 points) in 55 games. Coach Jeff Poeschl praised Wolsfeld as an explosive, highly-skilled scorer with a quick shot, the team’s best face-off player, and an excellent leader with a commanding presence despite a soft-spoken personality. “He is able to assess what the team needs and that is where he directs his focus,” Poeschl said.

MAHTOMEDI SPORTS BRIEFS GYMNASTICS

Mahtomedi has eight allconference picks after winning Metro Alliance and Section 4A titles and placing sixth at state. They are seniors Abbey Bush, Erin Steinman, Madison Moeller, Kendall Hines; junior Alix Fox; sophomore Addison Briske; freshman Lucy Otto; and seventh-grader Margo Bruner. Annik Sturm got honorable mention. Bush, who placed sixth all-around and fourth in bars at state, was named team MVP. Other awards went to Otto (most improved), Hines (unsung hero) and Lily Bush (Zephyr Award)

BOYS HOCKEY

Mahtomedi’s state Class A championship team had four players, all seniors, named All-Metro East Conference: forwards David Wolsfeld, Seth Nelson and Charlie Drage, and defenseman Cav Bruner. Getting honorable mentions were senior forwards Carter Haycraft, Jonny Grove, and Corey Bohmert; junior goalie Charlie Brandt; and sophomore defenseman Sam Harris. Drage, Bohmert and Bruner were named to the all-state tournament team. Wolsfeld got the Herb Brooks Award at the state tournament. Zephyrs with 30 or more points (goals-assists-points) were Drage (35-24-59), Nelson (23-22-45), Wolsfeld (11-31-42), Bruner (7-32-39), Haycraft (13-24-37), Bohmert (11-25-36), Jonny

Grove (12-22-34). Brandt had a .912 save percentage and 2.59 goalsagainst-average. The Zephyrs were 23-8 overall and 7-3 in conference.

COACH NEAR 500

Jeff Poeschl, Mahtomedi boys hockey coach, will likely notch his 500th win next season. His record is currently 493-300-28 overall in 30 seasons, and 449-255-24 in 26 seasons at Mahtomedi, with 11 state teams, two state championships, and four third-places. He coached at St. Thomas Academy before arriving at Mahtomedi.

GIRLS HOCKEY

Roseville/Mahtomedi had six All-Suburban Conference picks after posting an 17-8-1 overall record and 13-3 in the conference in the first year as a pairing. They are juniors Victoria Nelson (forward), Kylie Jones (forward), Ruby Eskin (forward) and Kylie Wiltse (defense) and sophomores Lily Peterfeso (goalie) and Olivia Martin (defense). Getting honorable mentions were Shae Jakoboski, senior defense, and Sophie Martin, sophomore forward. Scoring 20 or more points were Jones (13-14-27), Olivia Martin (6-17-23), Nelson (16-6-22), Eskin (10-10-20) and Sophie Martin (6-14-20). Peterfeso had a .914 save percentage and 2.19 goals-against-average.

4661 Highway 61 | White Bear Lake northstarbank.com | 651-429-4531

David Wolfseld

Sober house remains limited to 5 occupants

maintained. “It helps to have others around who are doing the right thing in building a new life.”

Board Chair Ed Prudhon said he worries about issues like parking and code enforcement with a higher number. “We have a tough time monitoring rental houses now with two people. Ten seems like an extreme amount.”

In his pitch to the board March 20, Maher said the house can easily hold 10 residents once he adds three bedrooms and a bath in an unfinished basement. And his driveway can hold six vehicles, which he believes is sufficient, since about half the renters don’t own cars.

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS STAFF WRITER

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP — The number of male occupants at a sober house will remain at five after supervisors denied an appeal to double it.

Owner Daniel Maher requested the Town Board amend an ordinance allowing up to 10 unrelated males to live at a sober house at 2592 Blue Bill Circle. The five-bedroom property rents to men seeking sobriety in a group-home environment.

Five occupants is too few to provide the kind of support those recovering from addiction need, Maher said. He is a member of Minnesota Association of Sober Homes (MASH) and has been running similar properties for 15 years.

“Sober living is about community,” Maher

MASH President Randy Young also spoke to the board. He owns three sober houses in St. Paul occupied by 12, seven and four residents. “Ten is an optimum number,” Young said. “Five is too few. There has been a fair amount of research that shows more people are needed for therapeutic value.” Young emphasized that “guys who live in sober houses want to be part of a community. They are good neighbors and deserve respect.”

MASH has 165 registered sober homes in Minnesota, or 1,800 beds. Not all houses register or join the organization. “We believe as members we can educate communities on why it’s important to allow sober houses,” Young continued. They also train managers on how to run a successful sober house. There is no counseling or direct services done at the homes. The manager handles disagreements and curfew issues. Most houses require residents to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Another sober house advocate attending with

• Aquatic Therapy

• Occupational Therapy

• Physical Therapy

• Speech Pathology

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

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

We help you get back to living.

Maher and Young was Chris Edrington, owner of St. Paul Sober Living and vice president of the National Alliance of Recovery Residences (NARR). All 33 state MASH affiliates are members of NARR.

Edrington told the board the Twin Cities is known as one of the most vibrant sober communities in the country. He also told them he won a federal court case 11 years ago in Colorado over occupancy numbers. Edrington wanted 10 beds and was told he could only have six. “They violated the Fair Housing Act and had to award us $550,000 in damages,” he said.

Every step of the way.

“Community will save your life when trying to recover from addiction,” Edrington continued. He feels a number between eight and 10 is the “sweet spot”.

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

Town Attorney Chad Lemmons reminded the board that alcoholism is considered a disability, which means the township is required to make accommodations under the American Disability and Fair Housing Acts. “The question is, would increasing the number above five be a required accommodation?” he asked. “If a sober home consisting of five or fewer residents can effectively treat an alcoholic, then the town has accommodated the disability.”

• Aquatic Therapy

• Occupational Therapy

• Physical Therapy

Lemmons told the advocates the township didn’t appreciate what he perceived as threats of a lawsuit, and that they did not have the right to any number they chose under the Acts.

“To say you have an unconditional right to any amount is incorrect and not supported by law,” the attorney said.

• Speech Pathology

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

1900 Webber Street White Bear Lake, MN 55110

CerenitySeniorCare.org

Now offering a limited number of beautiful studio apartments in Club Lodge, an intimate neighborhood with an ideal location on the first level of The Lodge. Enjoy the convenience of a private entrance, a patio off of the communal living room, and month-to-month rentals with no “buy-in” fees.

This neighborhood comprises 16 studio apartments that are 350 square feet with a refrigerator and microwave. Our cozy common areas make it easy to build new friendships with three chef-inspired meals per day, a daily coffee bar and refreshment station, and monthly food and beverage gatherings.

• Shoreline Dining & Lounge and Sidney’s bistro

•

We help you get back to living.

Every step of the way.

Daniel Maher

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED Randy Young

Bears stellar senior group places 5th at state

how we handled adversity,” Janicki said. “Beating really good teams to end the year gave us a sense of satisfaction, for sure. Finishing fifth place in state is something we’re proud of.”

Misgen was elated that he and his cohorts finished their many years together with two wins at state and losing only to the champion.

“We stuck together and fought our way past Buffalo, which had an amazing season and was always ranked high in the state, and Andover, which also had an amazing season,” Misgen said. Even more special was sharing the experience “with the group of guys I had been playing with my whole life. I don’t think about basketball without thinking about all the brothers I made along the way.”

fast 5-foot-11 guard Hayden Tibbitts sank 17 points and their 6-foot-9 (not a misprint) guard Jackson McAndrew tallied 14 points. Isaiah Habte added 13 and Ben Schaffer 12 as 10 players scored.

“We’ve played some pretty good teams. They’re the best,” said Hawks. “What impressed me most was how well every one of them could shoot the three-ball.”

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS WRITER

Much was riding on the final shot of Jack Janicki’s prolific career with White Bear Lake basketball.

The 6-foot-4 guard was at the free throw line with three seconds left in the fifth-place game against Andover. The Bears needed a point to clinch the win. And he was one point short of 2,000 in his career.

Janicki missed the first shot. Fortunately, it had been an intentional foul, so he got a second shot, which he swished. The Bears won 68-64, and he became the only boy in Class 4A to get 2,000 points this year.

“I was aware of how many points I needed, but it wasn’t as important to me as winning,” Janicki said. “That last free throw had me very nervous, though.”

This senior-dominant Bear team finished on a high note, bringing home the Class 4A consolation championship trophy in the school’s first state boys hoops appearance since 2000.

After losing to the eventual champion, Wayzata, 81-61 in the first round Tuesday at Target Center, the No. 12 ranked Bears squeezed past No. 13 Buffalo 66-62 on Wednesday and No. 7 Andover on Thursday evening, both at Concordia-St. Paul, and finished 23-8.

Janicki logged 60 points, 20 rebounds and 11 assists in the three games and was one of 10 players named to the all-tournament team. Wyatt Hawks delivered 54 points and 30 rebounds. Jack Misgen added 28 points. The top six, all seniors, also included Jeremy Kolb, Jack Setterlund and Zach Nelson. Other seniors were Tre Jackson, Brandon Ehlers and Josh Doghor.

“We were happy with the end of the season and

Their coach, Gregory Burke, completing his second year, was accorded the Section 4AAAA coach of the year honor by his peers. Ironically, as noted in a Star-Tribune article, the Bears’ first opponent was Wayzata, the school Burke serves as Dean of Students. And he once coached Trojan coach Bryan Schnettler, on the UW-Superior freshman team.

The Bears, who won their last four regular season games by a total of eight points, then won their last two section games over Stillwater 52-50 and East Ridge 57-55, continued their knack for winning close games at state.

“We always stayed together, and that’s huge in close games,” said Janicki. “When you’ve played together since you were young, you build trust and have a connection that’s almost like an unspoken language on the court.”

No. 3 Wayzata was pretty good in close games, too, beating No. 2 Lakeville North 79-77 the semifinals and No. 1 Park Center 75-71 in overtime in the championship game.

Wayzata 81, Bears 61

The Trojans did everything well, including 3-point shooting as they hit 13 of 24 from outside the arc. Their blazing

Janicki said playing at Target Center with a big following was great fun: “It was awesome to see all that orange in the crowd. We’ve had a great year, and it’s not over yet. We’d like to pick up one or two more wins.”

Janicki netted 16 points, Misgen 15 and Nelson 12, hitting four of his first five 3-pointers. Hawks had nine points, Kolb four and Setterlund two.

Bears 66, Buffalo 62

Powering the Bears were Janicki with 24 points, seven rebounds and four assists, and Hawks with 21 points and 10 rebounds, in turning back the Bison (23-8). Kolb and Sawyer Collins had eight points each, Misgen four and Korey Raheem three. Grady Guida and Nate Dahl sank 19 points each for Buffalo.

Bears 68, Andover 64

Hawks, 6-foot-8 center, was masterful between the blocks, scoring 24 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, with some big baskets late to keep the Bears in front. Janicki notched 20 points, 10 rebounds and five assists (with coach Greg Gard and assistant Joe Krabbenhoft of Wisconsin, his next team, watching). Misgen had nine points, Kolb seven, and Setterlund and Nelson four apiece.

The Bears zoomed to early leads of 16-2 and 24-10. Andover reeled off 13 straight points and it was close the rest of the way. The Bears kept spurting ahead by eight to ten points. The Huskies kept scrambling back within a basket but could never overtake the Bears.

PHOTOS BY BRUCE STRAND

The Bears happily hoisted the fifth-place trophy after beating Andover 68-64.

Jack Janicki dunked against Andover on the way to 20 points.

Wyatt Hawks jousted with Wayzata’s Isaiah Habte under the hoop at Target Center.

Artist’s otherworldly work on display in St. Paul

“I’d like to make sure that people who come out to see my art might be able to see what it’d be like to live in the future and the foreignness of future generations to come,” Engebretson said.

His artwork — which consists of drawings, paintings and ceramics — envisions a utopian future in which people live in unity, not just with other humans on Earth, but with other extraterrestrial beings.

Engebretson refers to the utopian world depicted in his art as a “Class-Five civilization,” which is a civilization whose inhabitants are transdimensional, multiversal, nonlinear space-time continuum thinkers. People in such a civilization would be more open-minded to new possibilities and would therefore be better equipped to create a more equitable society.

weekly writers’ workshop sessions led by Interact art instructor Jonas Specktor.

Although Interact artists work with instructors and take part in workshops to hone their skills, Gallery Director Brittany Kieler said the artistic process is self-directed and has a non-hierarchical structure.

“Artists will come into the program and decide what they’re really interested in working on and go from there,” she said.

Kieler also noted that Engebretson was Interact Gallery’s inaugural artist-in-residence last summer.

During his residency, Engebretson also had professional development

IF YOU GO:

What: “Transdimensional Multiversal Nonlinear Cosmic Traveler” art exhibit by Michael Engebretson

When: Ongoing through Friday, April 14

Where: Interact Gallery, 755 Prior Ave. N., Suite 002D, St. Paul

Details: White Bear Lake artist Michael Engebretson invites the public to experience his cosmic vision of a future utopia, which he visually depicts through his artwork. To visit the gallery exhibit in person, schedule a viewing appointment at calendly. com/interact-gallery or email gallery@interactcenterarts.com. The public also can view the exhibit online by visiting gallery. interactcenterarts.org.

BY RANDY PAULSON STAFF WRITER

WHITE BEAR LAKE — Michael Engebretson’s feet are firmly planted on planet Earth when he creates art, but his imagination takes him and all who look at his work on a journey through time and space.

An exhibit of the 28-year-old White Bear Lake resident’s out-ofthis-world artistic creations titled “Transdimensional Multiversal Nonlinear Cosmic Traveler” is open to public viewing through April 14 at Interact Gallery in St. Paul.

Interact is a nonprofit visual and performing arts center that lets artists with disabilities fine-tune their craft by working alongside other artists, all while expressing themselves creatively.

Classes One, Two, Three and Four, meanwhile, refer to civilizations that are planetary, solar, galactic and universal, respectively.

Engebretson’s artwork also offers viewers a glimpse into his experience as an autistic person and how he sees the world differently from his neurotypical peers. In his biography on Interact’s website, Engebretson describes the way his brain works as being “like a cyborg: part human, and part machine.”

He’s enjoyed drawing spaceship diagrams since he was in high school and has been involved with Interact since September 2016. Initially, he worked on the organization’s performing arts side but later switched to visual arts.

He channels his science fictioninspired art through various mediums, including acrylic markers and paints as well as pottery. He also writes poetry, having taken part in

2023 Summer Camp Directory

Ages

Grades K - 12

5 to 11 Years

2 to 12 years

3 to 18 years

2 to 18 years

Grades 1 - 12

opportunities by meeting with Minneapolis artist Mark Schoening and Robert Cozzolino, the Patrick and Aimee Butler Curator of Paintings at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Kieler said the residency served as a launching pad for Engebretson’s solo exhibit.

“This is the first solo show I’ve ever gotten to be in,” Engebretson said.

He previously had his art displayed at Gamut Gallery in Minneapolis alongside works from other Interact artists. Engebretson has also presented at Art Enables in Washington, D.C., and Make Studio in Baltimore. In 2021, he was a key contributing artist and performer in Interact’s first virtual theater production and companion exhibition, “Zoomtopia.”

Michael Engebretson of White Bear Lake works on a massive canvas painting at Interact Gallery in St. Paul.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Various geometric shapes, patterns and colors combine in White Bear Lake artist Michael Engebretson’s acrylic paintings of spaceship diagrams and cosmic worlds.