White Bear Press

White Bear alum leveling up Hollywood’s sound

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“The Beekeeper,” “Dune: Part Two,” “Godzilla x Kong” — if a Warner Bros. movie sounds good, White Bear Lake native and sound mixer Jill Defiel likely deserves some credit.

“With “Dune: Part Two,” I did the international sound mix,” Defiel clarified. “The Beekeeper,” I did the domestic mix for.”

Just what does a sound mixer do? Broadly speaking, movie making is broken up into three sections: preproduction, production and postproduction. “Preproduction is getting the crew together, locking down the

script — LOTS of planning,” explained Defiel.

“Production is getting on set, the director working with the actors, making sure everyone’s on the same page. Postproduction takes everything that’s been made and puts it together for the final product you see in theaters.”

Post-production is where Defiel works, making sure every sound is at the appropriate level, which allows the director to accomplish their vision. “I push all the buttons before people play with the buttons,” Defiel quips.

“When a movie comes to us, all the audio — voices, effects, everything — is up front. It’s a wall of noise. We take that wall and wrap it around the room.

We do everything we can to make it immersive.”

Defiel had long been drawn to the movie industry (as a kid, she edited her own music tracks for her competitive figure-skating routines), but she didn’t know exactly where she fit. Upon attending the University of Southern California (USC), Defiel learned every part of the film workflow. “Directing, cinematography, producing: It didn’t feel right,” Defiel recalled. “I took sound classes with the audio team at USC … and that was the missing puzzle piece.” Frustratingly, in a field dominated by older men, Defiel herself has sometimes

SEE SOUND MIXER, PAGE 12

Historical Society project seeks to educate public on Native American heritage

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

The White Bear Lake Historical Society officially launched its Native American Education Initiative Project last Fall. The project, which runs through the end of May, seeks to educate

residents unfamiliar with the city’s history of indigenous populations.

Project Coordinator Elsa Battala took note of the White Bear Lake community’s origins, which date back to the early 19th century. At that time, the area comprised both Dakota and

Local vet meets urgent need

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Local veterinarian Dr. Liz Sitter is hoping she can fill a need in the north metro.

The Marine on St. Croix resident recently opened Aurora Urgent Veterinary Clinic in White Bear Lake, which is likely the first standalone pet urgent care in the Twin Cities.

“There’s a high demand. It is hard to get into your regular vet, and a lot of times you have to wait for weeks, and the emergency clinics are at capacity,” Sitter explained. “I saw a big need in the market for urgent care. It’s kind of a newer thing.”

Before the pandemic, general practices could generally carve out time for both regular visits in addition to urgent care, but now there are so many pets in the market that they are having a tough time accommodating them all. Some emergency clinics in the Twin Cities also provide urgent care, but as far as Sitter knows, she is the first vet to open a stand-alone urgent care.

Ojibwe land before European settlement took over. Battala said that history like this, which she believes is forgotten nowadays, deserves a better understanding.

“There’s not much knowledge about what used to be here in the

Sitter, who is originally from New Jersey, went to vet school in Oklahoma. She moved to Minnesota about 11 years ago to be close to her sister. She has been in general practice for 10 years; she formerly worked at Stillwater Veterinary Clinic and Century Animal Clinic in Maplewood.

It was that need she saw while working in general practice that prompted her to open Aurora Urgent Care.

“After the pandemic, I just saw we were turning so many people away every day,

Jill Defiel graduated from White Bear Lake High School in 2011.

CONTRIBUTED John Hunter, co-founder of Twin Cities Native Lacrosse, presented a program on the history of the sport of lacrosse as part of the Native American Education Initiative Project. The project features a mix of in-person and Zoom presentations on Native American culture.

Meet new board of directors, plus AI presentation

The White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce will host an inauguration for its new 2024 board of directors at the Dellwood Country Club from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Thursday, April 4. The event will also feature a presentation by Princess Paula Counseling CEO Paula Skoviera called AI Unleashed: Transform Your Business with Chat GPT. The presentation will focus on the basics of AI and ChatGPT and how they benefit businesses. Attendees will also learn strategies to leverage AI for efficiency and improved profitability. Attendance is $45 for chamber members and $60 for nonmembers. Tables of eight are open for a $500 registration fee. Those interested in attending can register online at www.chamberorganizer. com.

Learn about election, voting

An upcoming League of Women Voters –White Bear Lake Area meeting will feature Secretary of State Steve Simon as guest speaker. The meeting will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the social hall at White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church. Sec. Simon will join via Zoom to provide a preview of the election calendar, share thoughts on key issues and challenges, discuss voter demographics, and highlight new legislation affecting the voting and elections process. Small group break-out sessions will follow on the topics of Exploring VOTE 411, Insights from White Bear Lake High School Students, and Nonpartisan Policy Discussion. The LWV is a nonpartisan organization. All are welcome to attend the program and no registration is reqired. For more information, go to lwv-wbla.org.

Ramsey County bench-building project officially launched Active Living Ramsey Communities is accepting applications for its 2024 Be Active! Be Green! Bench Initiative. The initiative works to place benches on trails and pedestrian corridors throughout Ramsey County. This helps create a more walkable environment for people of all ages and abilities. Applicants must specify what bench route they want to see developed, choose the bench style (Victorian or Park Series), and provide any additional requested information. Nonprofits and governmental units are also eligible to apply. All applications are due May 20 and can be completed online at www.ramseycounty.us.

2024 Tour de Bar ride accepting nominations

The Tour De Bar Bicycle Benefit Ride is currently accepting nominations for beneficiaries for its annual 2024 ride. To be considered, the nominee must have a direct connection to the White Bear Lake, Vadnais Heights or Mahtomedi area. The nominee must also meet one of the following three requirements: They must reside in one of the three communities, attend school within one, or be employed within one. Applicants can also be selfnominated or nominated by another individual or group. Forms must be sent to 2181 Southwood Drive, White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110, or emailed to tourdebar@ hotmail.com no later than Friday, April 19. All nominees will be notified by Monday, April 22.

the Entrepreneurship Series event.

The Mahtomedi/ Stillwater Adapted Floor Hockey team with Mahtomedi players Nico Manz and Sophie Wynne recently advanced to the semi-finals of the state tournament.

to be names National Grand Champion of the Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest. The 33rd annual contest recognizes the best in manuscript and cursive penmanship. Miller and Mary Kieffer, a 6th grader at St. Anne’s, were previously named regional winners of the contest.

Tori Jespersen, Mahtomedi High School Class of 2024, recently advanced to the DECA International Career Development Conference. She placed fourth in the State DECA competition for

The Mahtomedi Middle School MathCounts team of Jacob Robinson (2029), Levi Cosby (2028), Carys McNaughton (2028) and Paul Grzesik (2029) recently participated in the MathCounts State competition. They were among the top 10% of more than 1,300 MathCounts students statewide who qualified to complete in the event.

Zita

Local connections

If you’ve taken the time to read this (in print or online), I offer my sincere thanks. If you are a Press subscriber, I need to let you know that your support is genuinely appreciated. The fact that you’re connecting with a local source for information is also a tangible and valid indication that you are curious and care about what’s going on in your community. I help oversee the operation and flow of content on our combined websites, so I see the variety of local content that is researched and created by members of our dedicated staff on a daily and weekly basis. These articles cover a range that includes human interest features, in depth stories originating from city hall meetings, sports and breaking news.

of View

Paul Dols

Starting with a rudimentary website in the early 2000s, I’ve been involved in at least four generations of news website evolution, logging years of experience working on setup, management, content creation and troubleshooting. Over the years I’ve looked at the website fundamentally as a tool to work in tandem with our print products, a way to reach an expanded audience while also providing opportunities to present stories with additional space for photos and video presentations.

There was a period of time when I was frustrated and sometimes impatient with some of the user complaints we were receiving and concluded that I needed to change my approach — or else be resigned to remaining in a perpetual cycle of intermittent irritation. Once it finally dawned on me that the readers who contacted us with concerns and complaints cared enough about their local newspaper to make the effort to let us know when something wasn’t working, my perspective changed, and a more collaborative point of view emerged. Now when we receive messages from readers concerning various website issues, I try to work with them as troubleshooting partners. With a little patience we’ve managed to work together through most issues we’ve encountered. I believe one of the most valuable skills I’ve learned through accumulated experience — that is also transferrable into daily life — is troubleshooting. Learning how to effectively trouble-shoot a problem is all about pragmatically gathering information, not to support a preconceived notion, but to reveal the truth so that the underlying problem can be solved. Coincidentally, this is among the fundamental principles that also guides ethical journalism.

I’ve been wary and skeptical of social media since the mid 2000s, when Facebook and other platforms started to gain mass followings. I accept that there might be some good things that can be attributed to social media but, in my opinion, the harm and disfunction that has been unleashed far outweighs the positive aspects that appear to only benefit small, singularly focused minority interests.

In his column last week, Press Publications

Publisher Emeritus Gene Johnson shared his perspective on some of challenges of competing with social media and also stressed the continued importance of a trusted local newspaper as part of a healthy community. All I can add is that coverage and information shared by respected media organizations like the Poynter Institute and the American Journalism Project agree with his perspective. A recent article on the Poynter Institute website described the local coverage readers missed following the decline of a family-owned newspaper in Indiana after control switched to a private equity company and a passage from the American Journalism Project website reads “Local news bridges divides in communities, showcases opportunities for community connection, highlights community perspectives, and sheds light on how policy issues affect readers and their neighbors.”

Thanks again for partnering with us as we navigate through some challenging and uncharted territory.

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

Ensuring Minnesota veterans can get the care they’ve earned

Whether they served in the jungles of Vietnam, the mountains of Afghanistan, or the sands of Iraq, when our veterans signed up to serve our country, there wasn’t a waiting line. When they return home from duty and need a job, education, housing, or health care, there should never be a waiting line in the United States of America.

That’s why for years I worked alongside Minnesota veterans and families to ensure that veterans exposed to toxic substances, including burn pits in the Middle East and Agent Orange in Vietnam, could get the high-quality, affordable health care they need through the Department of Veterans Affairs. For too long, our vets had to jump through bureaucratic hoops to prove the obvious — that their conditions, be they high blood pressure from

Agent Orange or cancer from exposure to burn pits, were related to their service — and in some cases, they still found they weren’t eligible to receive care through the VA. That changed when Congress came together to pass the PACT Act.

In March, the VA announced that it is now able to provide health care for all vets who were exposed to toxins or served in the Vietnam War or any combat zone after 9/11. That means millions of vets can apply for VA health care up to eight years earlier than expected. This is a game-changer for the 118,000 Minnesota vets who the VA estimates benefit from the PACT Act. In our state alone, more than 8,000 vets have already applied for care.

I think of the Starks family, who I had the privilege of meeting in March. Jerald Starks served our country in the Army for 16 years, and his dedication to service didn’t end when he got home — he went on to work in law enforcement and for the Postal Service. He tragically passed away from leukemia related to burn pit exposure, but during his cancer battle, the PACT Act ensured

he and his family could afford care.

In the wake of the VA’s announcement, I am focused on ensuring all Minnesota veterans can get the health care they need. If you or a loved one served and may have been exposed to burn pits or toxins of any kind, I encourage you to enroll in health care through the PACT Act. You no longer have to file a disability claim to receive this care — if you were exposed to toxins or served in the Vietnam War or any combat zone after 9/11, you are eligible to enroll in VA health care today and will have access for life. Visit VA.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MYVA411 to learn more. For assistance, you can also call my office at 612-727-5220.

Just as our veterans made a promise to defend our nation, we make a promise to be there for them when they come home. By expanding access to health care, we are letting our veterans and service members know that when the United States of America makes a promise, we keep it.

Amy Klobuchar is a U.S. Senator representing Minnesota.

• 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.

Legislator Lingo Amy

Angle

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Thank you to alum

I had a dream the other night about failing to graduate from Mariner High School (in 1976). That almost took place. Had I failed my last class, I wouldn’t have had the credits to graduate.

My late mother always told us to be kind and grateful. In that spirit, I want to thank Cindy Wyland (class of 1977) for being kind and helping me get those credits and graduate with my friends. My life would have been so much different than it has been.

While expressing my gratitude is 48 years late, I hope Cindy reads this — or if she doesn’t live in White Bear Lake, a friend can pass on my sincere appreciation.

John King Lino Lakes

Bad border plan on horizon

According to Western Lensman, the Democrat open borders plan is to entrench a single-party rule. By doing so, they are prioritizing the needs of millions of noncitizens over the needs of American citizens to ensure their loyalty to the political party that imported them.

The Democrats are doing their very best by keeping the illegals in this country at all costs, no matter the crimes they are committing.

They plan to count the noncitizens in the census to determine Congressional apportionment in the House of Representatives. As of now, that would equal 13 extra congressional districts, a tremendous amount of electoral power. By funding a massive, heavily funded campaign to change voting laws, they will legalize mass mail-in ballots, no signature verification, and no proof of citizenship requirements, making it nearly impossible to prove voter fraud.

Promising lavish benefits and permanent privileges will lock in the permanent voting majority.

If they win the elections, a singleparty rule will be achieved. This is all being done with our tax dollars.

Wake up, people, and see what’s happening in America today. Stand up, speak out, and make your voices heard. Vote!

Annemarie and Jim Foley White Bear Lake

Need more housing choices

The chair of the House Housing Committee, Rep. Mike Howard, said it best: “Minnesota has a massive housing shortage that is driving up the costs of housing for everyone, and now is the time to legalize more housing choices.”

He said this when the “Minnesotans for More Homes” agenda was announced in February with a large, diverse, bipartisan coalition that has the support of environmental groups, business groups, labor organizations, housing advocates and more. And why has a historically broad coalition united behind this legislation? Because it is urgently needed.

Minnesota is facing a 106,000-unit housing shortage, which is much of the reason why more and more homebuyers are priced out of the dream of homeownership. Protecting the status quo has never worked for us. We need solutions, not platitudes like protecting “local control.”

Many of our state’s current land use policies are rooted in a century-old practice of exclusion. In the years I have served on the council, I have seen the micromanaging roadblocks that those who say “Not In My Back Yard” feel entitled to use against current residents looking to improve their properties and those who want to join our community. Reducing barriers to creating and upgrading housing for Minnesotans, both young and old, should be a shared priority for us all. The proposed “Missing Middle” legislation does just that. These reforms have been enacted in red and blue states across the country. Now, it is Minnesota’s moment.

By making it easier to build more housing and a variety of housing older adults can age in place, we can end the historical role exclusion has played in our housing policies, incentivize affordable housing production, create better environmental use of our available land, and finally reduce construction costs so more people can afford needed housing.

Do you want your kids and grandkids to have a chance at homeownership in your community and state? Then, we should thank state leaders willing to take a holistic approach to our housing woes. Tell them to vote yes to legalizing more housing options.

Mark Foster

Deputy Mayor, City of Birchwood Village

Vice President of Legislative & Political Affairs for Housing First Minnesota

Winter cleanup thank you

On March 9, as a demonstration of community spirit and stewardship, 150 volunteers from around the White Bear Lake/Mahtomedi area took part in the 21st annual late-winter cleanup effort, collecting over 500 pounds of trash. Due to early ice-out conditions, this year’s cleanup focused on park land around the lake rather than scouring the frozen lake surface. THANK YOU to all who took part in this year’s event. Next year’s cleanup will occur on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

Jim Schuster

2024 Cleanup Co-Chair Mahtomedi

More information on smart meters

Erik Suchy’s article on smart meters being installed by Xcel Energy left out the most important reason Xcel wants to install these meters. State law mandates that Xcel be carbon free by 2040. There is little chance that Xcel can meet this requirement without severely reducing electric usage. Wind and solar output needs to be increased by a factor of four and transmission lines, costing billions, need to be sited, permitted, and constructed; a many years long process. Facing these headwinds, Xcel has submitted plans to the state to implement a program of time-of-day pricing whereby prices from 3 to 8 p.m. would be double the current rate. Daytime rates would be less, but consumers will ultimately end up paying much more for electricity. Without smart meters, Xcel has no way of implementing this program and cannot meet the state mandate.  The time-of-day pricing won’t impact many of us, retirees, those who can work from home, and the wealthy. However, think of the working parents who are barely scraping by; come home from work at 5 p.m., and have to use electricity for cooking, heating water for baths and showers, and heating or cooling their home or apartment. Surely, doubling current electric bills will push many over the edge. Reducing Xcel’s carbon footprint is commendable,

but a state mandate to do so by 2040 has many negative consequences that should have been included in Mr. Suchy’s article.

Leonard Lorence White Bear Lake

Offended by rude remarks

I was pleased to serve as a History Day judge March 23 at White Bear Lake High School’s South Campus. As usual, I stopped at a local restaurant to have coffee and review my notes before heading to the competition.

I was not pleased to be greeted with remarks from a group of men who apparently gather at said restaurant as a coffee klatch.

This male version of the pick a little, talk a little ladies may have thought themselves to be funny. I felt very uncomfortable and singled out. I used a different door and walked all the way around the restaurant rather than deal with that bunch again.

Women all too often deal with rude comments from men trying to be funny or clever or aggressive. At almost 66 years of age, I thought I was well beyond the days of cat calls and rude remarks. I was mistaken.

None of us at any age need those kind of comments, be they cat calls, whistles or rude remarks. You fellows would not want someone mocking your wives, daughters, granddaughters, sisters or female friends. Don’t mock people you don’t know.

Don’t assume that because you don’t know me, it’s OK to make comments. It was not OK. I don’t know what is going on in your lives. You certainly don’t know what is going on in my life. Have your little gossip session but if you don’t know someone, leave that person alone.

I was in your community doing volunteer work. Some of the young people whose work I helped to evaluate and judge may be your family members, neighbors or friends. Perhaps your Saturday morning would be better spent helping others instead of taking up restaurant space, gossiping, drinking coffee and making rude comments.

Jane McClure St. Paul

SPRING 2024

Coach — Ryan Fitzpatrick

Assistants — Alex Alvarez (pitchers), Dan Zurbey (1st base), Ryan Abrahamson (hitting), Aaron Turner (bench), Matt Seiler and Adam King (JV), Kevin Capocasa (B) and Sean Burns (9th)

Last year — 13-11 overall, 10-8 conference

Returning starters —

Seniors: Alex Doroff, Roman Lachenmayer, Dominic Anderson; Juniors: Blake Eckerle, Evan Newlander, Tyler Allshouse, Johnny Wong, Isaiah Weber, Owen Mortimer, Kevin Zollinger, Owen Farrington

In the mix — Junior Jace Lombardi

Fast facts — Eckerle (.333 with 19 runs last year) has committed to Utah. Lachenmayer (3-1 with a 1.34 ERA last year) has committed to Bethel. Captains are Eckerle, Doroff, Lachenmeyer, Newlander, and Allshouse

SPORTS PREVIEWS

Coach says — “We have a very tight group of juniors and seniors that have been playing together on JV and/or varsity since they were freshmen, and many since they were 10 years old. Very talented, hard-working group. They show it on the field and in the classroom. Preseason rankings included five teams from our conference in the top ten. We feel like we should be on that list, so we are looking forward to making a big jump this season.”

BEARS // WHITE BEAR LAKE TENNIS

Coach — Paul Kolenich

Assistant — Cole

Pottinger

Last year — 4-5 conference, 7-8 overall

Captains — Will Fleming, Andrew Kolenich

Returning starters

— Juniors: Will Fleming (1-singles), Kolenich (2-singles), Colton Knutson (4-singles), Will Distad (3-doubles) 8th grader: Mason Voeller (2-doubles), Also in the mix — Asher Ludwig, Brooks Peltier

Fast facts — Fleming and Kolenich are captains. Both were all-conference last year and Kolenich was team MVP. Coach says — “We graduated four seniors from a small squad last season. This year we will focus on getting more match play for our new players to complement the experience of our upperclassmen.”

BEARS // WHITE BEAR LAKE SOFTBALL

Coach — Jill Leverty

Assistants — Mary Hildestad, Nick DeVet, Jim Taylor, Rico Lopez

Last year — 21-6 overall, 14-4 conference, 4th place at state

Returning starters —

Seniors: Heidi Barber (catcher, infield), Emma Larson (outfield, pitcher), Lily Glendenning (infield); Juniors: Madelyn Belisle (outfield); Sophomore: Maddie Pearson (infield)

Other letter winners

— Seniors: Gabby Casa De Calvo (infield), Paige Tubbesing (infield); Junior: Aubrey Parker (catcher, infield); Sophomore: Lauren Elias (outfield)

Fast facts — Barber, an all-stater signed by UConn, hit .558 with 22 RBI last year. Larson hit .406 and pitched two wins. Barber, Larson, Belisle, and Glendenning are captains. Bears need to find pitchers after three-year ace Chloe Barber graduated.

Coach says — “Our goal is to end up in the top half of our conference and make a far run in the postseason.”

BEARS // WHITE BEAR LAKE TRACK // BOYS

Coach —Tom Paulson

Assistants — Doug Hicks (sprints), Dan Kovacich (distance), Jon Pratt (throws), Robert Anderson (high jump), Mike Rausch (hurdles), Ozzie Larsen (pole vault), Will Jackson (sprints), Jack Koivisto (throws)

Captains — Caleb Anderson, Luke Williams, Keith Johnson, Matt Hunter

Last year — 3rd in SEC, 2nd in section

Athletes to watch — Seniors: Caleb Anderson (school recordholder in 200), Femi Animasaun (hurdles), Amir Brown (200, 400), Tommy Cao (pole vault), Zack Carnes (throws), Ian Cran (pole vault), Tanner Hoel (800), Keith Johnson (200, 400), Ryley Murphy (800), Luke Williams (400 thru 3200); Juniors: Tyrese Behnken (hurdles), Trace Dotstry (triple jump), Malik Doumbia (long & triple jump), Logan Fisher (100, 200), Ernie Goodwin (200, throws), Matt Hunter (throws), Isaac Kolstad (800, 1600), Vaughn Larson (1600, 3200), Anthony ParadaRomero (pole vault), Theo Pax (throws), Rithy Sain (200, 400, high jump); Sophomores: Tomi Animasaun (hurdles, long jump), Easton Miles (100, 200, long jump), Maxwell Popp (1600, 3200) Coach says — “Team strengths this year will be on the track. We have quality in hurdles and 100 through the 3200. All the relays will have the opportunity to qualify for State this year. It will be a fun track season.”

BEARS // WHITE BEAR LAKE LACROSSE // GIRLS

Coach — Colleen Cameron

Assistants — Kassie

Bartness, Abby Franta, Ariana Roustazadeh

Last year — 9-6 overall, 7-2 conference

Returning starters — Seniors: Mesa McElmury, Georgia Kodytek, Bev Peterson, Bella Kuyava, Zoe

Timmons, Jaeda Jensen, Julie Hendrickson, Quinn

Denne; Junior: Grace Castro; Sophomore: Olivia Simpkins

Other letter winners — Kylie Lehman, Ava Maas, Chloe Zender, Ella Johnson

Fast facts — Captains are Kuyava, Jensen, Peterson and Denne. All four coaches are former Bears. Top four scorers return: Peterson (48 goals, nine assists), Jensen (37-25), Kodytek (32-17), Simpkins (16-2). McElmury is returning goalie (.446 save percentage)

Coach says — “These girls have been playing together since 7th grade and most have been putting up points since ninth grade. Our girls are really set in their offensive sets, as well as our core defense. We are super excited for the year that we feel like we have been building up to.”

BEARS // WHITE BEAR LAKE TRACK // GIRLS

Coach — Brianna Baker

Assistants — Daniel Rossiter (throws), Abigail Vadnais (hurdles), Audrey Kirschling (distance), Wyatt Benson (high jump/pole vault), Alyssa Mitchell (pole vault), Shane Swanberg (long/ triple jump), Phil Meyers (middle distance), Baker (sprints)

Last year — 5th place in conference, 2nd in section

Captains — Seniors: Keira Windish (throws), Autumn Maki (sprints), Alivia Laker (sprints), Allyn Mattson (distance); Juniors: Amelia Nachtsheim (hurdles), Grace Conroy (jumps) Returning state qualifiers — Windish (discus), Aliyah Hamlin and Maki (4x800), Lys-Aurele D’ Almeida and Gabrielle Bohrer (4x400)

Coach says — “Our program continues to grow both in ability and size. We are retaining and recruiting more athletes than we have in recent years, leading to a stronger team. With some new staff members, we're hoping to build a long term coaching staff to help continue our growth progression. In these first few weeks, we have already seen several new athletes who are showing a lot of promise.”

Emma

SPORTS PREVIEWS SPRING 2024

BEARS // WHITE BEAR LAKE GOLF // BOYS

Coach — Craig Nasvik

Assistant — Mark Misgen, Mason Fiddle, Kayla

Jensen

Last year — 3rd in conference, 2nd in section

Returning starters — Ivory Drusch, Sydney Pheil, Cami Bachmeier, Lainey Eddicus, Bailey Eddicus, Mady Vang and Melaina Spence.

Fast facts — Ivory Drusch was a state qualifier last year and placed 49th of 88 players. Drusch and Bachmeier are captains. Coach says — “The girls finished second in the section last year and truly have a great chance of going to state.”

Coach — Craig Nasvik

Assistant — Mark Misgen, Mason Fiddle, Kayla Jensen

Last year — 3rd in conference, 4th in section

Returning starters — Jack Stanius, Nolan Roed, Easton Fiddle, Wyatt Peterson

Also likely to play — Anders Samec, Ethan Kinsvater, Tommy Engleston, Magus Benz, Nick Hoden, Thomas Pederson

Fast facts — Easton Fiddle was a state qualifier last year as a seventh-grader and placed 28th of 88 players at state. Stanius and Roed are captains.

Coach says — “The boys really want to make a run to get to the state.”

SPORTS PREVIEWS

ZEPHYRS // MAHTOMEDI GOLF // GIRLS

Coach — Matt Huss

Assistant — Janine Nelson

Last year — 2nd in Metro East, Section 4AA champs, 8th place at state

Returning starters — Senior: Sadie Stembridge

Sophomores: Lexi McGrane, Lily Carlson.

Freshman: Reagan Juhl

Also likely to play — Juniors: Audrey Carlson, Indra Ramaley, Reese Mitchell. Freshman: Brynna Newfield

Fast facts — The roster has 29 players, 17 of them in 8th and 9th grade . Stembridge is captain

Coach says — “We return four players from the section champion team with state tournament experience. Goals are finding two varsity players to complement the (four returning) and developing our younger players to continue the momentum our program has established. Practice started on March 18 and the excitement level was already very high with the players and Coaches. 2024 is going to be a great year to be a Zephyr.”

Coach — Jeff Poeschl

Assistant — Keith Newman

Last year — 4th place at state; conference and section champions

Returning starters

—Juniors: Thomas Meader, Jacob Wilson, Tony Kurn

Other lettermen — Brooks Ashfield

Also likely to play — Wyatt Mullaney, Karl Hochradel, Mark Graff

Fast facts — Wilson placed 11th and Meader 20th at state. Three of top six on state lineup return. Meader and Wilson are captains.

Coach says — “We will attempt to defend our conference and section titles. With three of our top six returning, I anticipate a very competitive year. Cretin-Derham Hall will be the front runner in Section 4AA again but if we play our best golf we may be able to pull off another upset.”

ZEPHYRS // MAHTOMEDI BASEBALL

Coach — Rob Garry

Assistants — John Arlandson, Judd Sather, Herb Gibson

Last year — State Class 3A runner-up, 19-7

overall, 11-5 conference

Returning starters — Josh Donna (shortstop), Max Strecker (1st base), Ethan Felling (outfield, pitcher), Carter Schmidtz (infield), Jack Erickson (infield)

Also likely to play — Will Schwieters, Tommy Becker, Austin Felling, Laken Decker, Max Johnson

Fast facts — Felling, signed by Texas Christian University, hit .349 with three homers, had a 5-2 pitching record, and made the all-tournament team . Strecker hit .368, Schmidtz .364 and Donna .345 with 19 RBI

Coach says — “Some proven pitching is returning from last year, as well as three infield starters, Goals are to be a very hard team to beat, and improve throughout the season.”

Jack Stanius

SPRING 2024

ZEPHYRS // MAHTOMEDI TRACK // BOYS

Coach — Jon Nelson

Assistants — Thad Tumbleson (all jumps), Alli Ruprecht (hurdlers, pole vault), Tony Madline (throws). Volunteers Tyler McCormick (high jump), Austin Campbell (sprints)

Last year — 3rd in conference meet

Returning lettermen

— Seniors: Tyler Gunderson, Caden Hallin, Jacob Hauer, Mason Hughes, Nate Jackson, Brody Johnson, Robert Kronschnabel, Nils Landes, Arik Larson, Will Lieberman, Alec Mahoney, Jonah McCormick, Will Newman, Hudson Otto, Mason Schneider, Brett Swystun, Samuel Thein, Michael Barry; Junior Evan Carion; Sophomore Eliah McCormick

SPORTS PREVIEWS

Fast facts — McCormick was 3rd in the state in 110 HH. Fifteen varsity starters return . Evan Carion (distance), Jonah McCormick (hurdles, sprints), Brett Swystun (throws), Michesal Barry (sprints, triple jump)

Coach says — “We expect to have a well rounded team. Our hope is to place high in conference, sections, and have many athletes return to the state meet.”

ZEPHYRS // MAHTOMEDI LACROSSE // GIRLS

Coach — Ann Burns

Assistant — Angela Boreen (goalies)

Last year — 9-6 overall, 4-2 conference

Returning starters — Seniors: Evi Cegielski (mid), Raegan Shrankler (defense). Juniors: Addie DeMars (goalie), Annie Tanner (mid), . Sophomores: Brooklyn Kragness (attack, mid), Kimmy Ryan (defense). Sophomore: Aspen Tilges (defense), Payton Mielke (defense)

Other letter winners — Senior: Julia Fussy (attack); Junior: Cate Curran (goalie); Sophomore: Maggie Duea (attack)

Fast facts — Cegielski was 2nd on the team with 49 goals last year. Tanner had 19 goals . Cegielski and DeMars were allconference

Coach says — “This talented team has an incredibly positive never-quit attitude. So excited for the season.”

Coach — Jodie Tester

Assistants — Ali Farrington, Kate Koch, Thad Tumbelson and Tony Madeline

Last year — 1st in section, 4th in conference.

Fast facts — Returning state qualifiers are Kaili Malvey (high jump, 7th place, and long jump), Olivia Thiele (400), and Allison Rippentrop (400). Captains are Zoey Hauer, Rebecca Anderson, Ella Prose and Anna Mosely

Coach says — “We are excited that there are over 100 athletes out for track. We are very excited for another awesome season.”

ZEPHYRS // MAHTOMEDI LACROSSE // BOYS

Coach — Michael Narow

Assistants — Parker Hoen (defense), Jared Johnson (offense), Marshal Murphy (face-offs), Ryan Brown (midfield)

Last year — Section champion, 3-2 conference, 12-6 overall, 0-2 at state

Returning starters — Seniors: Drew Marchant (defender), Eric Buttke (attack); Juniors: Oskar Magnusson (attack), Connor Gray (defender), Hank Roelofs (defender), Landon Kruse (mid) Fast facts — Marchant was all-SEC last year. Top scorers back are Magnusson (23 goals, 23 assists) and Buttke (27-15). Captains are Buttke, Sean Crothers (senior, defense), Marchant and Magnusson. Five of seven defensive starters return. Sam Churchill will be faceoff specialist.

Coach says — “We have a very experienced defense, all exceptional athletes who can also play with the ball in their hands. Sam Churchill has committed to play Division 1 lacrosse and should be toward the top of the state in win percentage.”

ZEPHYRS // MAHTOMEDI SOFTBALL

Coach — Matthew Robinson

Assistant — Kelly Olson

Last year — 4-18 overall, 2-12 conference

Returning letter winners — Senior: Audrey Redin, Morgan Marx, Calista Kurr, Victoria Nelson. Juniors: Malia Erickson, Rylee Bogren, Julia Ruzynski. Sophomore: Sophia Metcalf

Freshman: Abigail Wright

Fast facts — Kurr and Nelson are Captains

Coach says — “Expectations are to be more competitive in our division.”

ZEPHYRS // MAHTOMEDI TENNIS

Coach — Aaron Freer

Last year — 8-0 conference, 20-7 overall, section champion, 0-2 at state

Returning starters — Seniors: Sam Rathmanner, Jack Allaben, Aiden Wald, Max Hendrickson. Juniors: Zach Burge, Brandon Pham, Luke Roettger

Fast facts — Rathmanner placed 3rd in the Class A state tournament. Rathmanner, Allaben, Wald, Burge and Pham were all-MEC

Jack Allaben, Sam Rathmanner, Brandon Pham

Eric Buttke

jonah McCormick

INHERITED STORIES WITH DIETRICH NISSEN

When: 2 p.m. Thursday, April 4

Where: Gable Pines, 1260 East County Rd. E, Vadnais Heights

Details: Learn how to create a legacy video documentary with the founder of Inherited Stories. RSVP by April 1.

Contact: 651-350-1703 or gablepineslife@gablepines.com

COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR

When: 3-6 p.m. Thursday, April 4

Where: Vadnais Heights

Commons

Details: Free screenings and information from local healthcare providers.

Contact: 651-401-3211 or vhedc.com

“PINOCCHIO”

When: 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Thursday, April 4 and Friday, April 5; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, April 6; 1 & 4 p.m. Sunday, April 7

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave. White Bear Lake

Details: Story within a story version of the classic tale. See ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

LIONS, PLANT MEDICINE, AND THE SMELL OF DIRT – LET’S CELEBRATE SPRING NIGHT SKIES

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, April 4

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

Details: Celebrate the birth of a new season with award winning artist-scientist, Annette S. Lee, who will share Indigenous, Artistic, and Scientific perspectives on relationship to sky and community wellness in the 21st century.

Contact: whitebearhistory.org

“I AM MY OWN WIFE”

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 5 & 12; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 6; 7 p.m. Sunday, April 7; 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13; and 2 p.m.

Sunday, April 14

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave. White Bear Lake

Details: Lakeshore Players performs the true story od a transgender woman who survived the Nazis and East German Communist regime. Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

SPIRIT OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

When: 9 a.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Boatworks Commons

Details: 5K and 5-mile run out and back on a paved trail along White Bear Lake. Proceeds support the Strive program at WBLAHS and Area Learning Center. Register online.

Contact: midwestevents.com/ mwe-event/spirit-of-white-bearlake-5k-5-mile-2

COMMUNITY SERVICE SATURDAY

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: The Historic Furber

Farm, 7310 Lamar Ave. S., Cottage Grove

Details: Local Lion’s Clubs, nonprofits, and schools host a day of hands-on projects for all ages that benefit communities in Ramsey and Washington Counties. Projects include after-school snack and activity bags, diabetes hypoglucemia kits, dog toys, fleece blankets, and Save the Bees seed balls.

Contact: Facebook: White Bear Lake Lions Club

WILDWOOD SEED LIBRARY GRAND

OPENING

When: noon-2 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Wildwood Library, Mahtomedi

Details: Learn about the new seed library with a seed swap, workshops with Washington County Master Gardeners, and crafts. Guest speaker Diane Wilson, author of “The Seed Keeper” will discuss the traditions of seed stewartship at 2 p.m.

Contact: washcolib.org

A CAPPELLA SHOWCASE

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, Mahtomedi

Details: Concert features A Cappella groups from Mahtomedi Public Schools, the community, local colleges, and universities. Ticket information online.

Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

LIONS WAFFLE BREAKFAST

When: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, April 7

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

Details: All-you-can-eat waffles and activities including Kidsight vision screening, fire truck tours, Can-do caninies, and other vendors. See cost online.

Contact: cityvadnaisheights. com/262/Waffle-Breakfast

SQUARE DANCING CLASS

When: 6-7:45 p.m. Monday, April 8

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

Details: Individuals, couples, and families can learn the basics of square dancing. Partners provided if needed; casual attire. Contact: 651-208-5807

BE SMART

When: 6:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 9

Where: Online

Details: Online presentation about the program designed to promote responsible gun ownership to reduce child gun deaths. Registration required.

Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com

FUTURES IN BLOOM

When: 7:45-8:45 a.m. Tuesday, April 9

Where: Century College, East Lincoln Mall

Details: John Century College leaders for a complimentary breakfast and hear student testimonials.

Contact: 651-779-3219 or century.edu

UNDERSTANDING ALZHEIMERS AND DEMENTIA

When: 5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 11

Where: St. Mary of the Lake, St. Joseph room, 4690 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Learn the differences between Alzheimer’s and Dementia, the impact of Alzheimer’s, the stages and risk factors of the disease, current research and treatments available that address some symptoms in a presentation by the Alzheimer’s Association. RSVP by April 8. Contact: 651-429-7771 option 1 or kfinn@stmarys-wbl.org

SOPHIE WIRTH, THE CAMP NEAR THE LAKE

When: 7-8 p.m. Thursday, April 11

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

Details: Presentation with Laura Weber explores the upper Midwest’s first kosher camp founded as a vacation rest home for poor and overtired Jewish immigrants. Members-ony meet and greet from 6 to 7 p.m. Registration required. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

Caleb is a conscientious and responsible student who is always well prepared. Academically, Caleb has earned High Honors each year, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA while taking honors level courses. As a kind, helpful, and willing participant in class, Caleb is also a positive role model for his peers. He is very active in extracurricular activities as a three-sport athlete in soccer, basketball, and track and also serves as a WEB leader. Congratulations, Caleb, on being an exemplary Zephyr!

Diverse and Important Underwater Forests: Aquatic Plants in Birch Lake

BY DAWN TANNER SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

As the winter—whatever we had of it this year—turns to spring, Minnesotans gaze longingly at our lakes. We can hardly wait to spend time swimming, fishing, paddling, boating, sitting lakeside with family and friends, and more. Our lakes, rivers, and streams connect us in many ways.

The underwater forests that help provide habitat for wildlife and keep our waterways healthy are often an underrated component of summers in and on the water. Healthy native aquatic plants are a sign of good and even improving water quality. These native plants take up nutrients from lakes and streams and keep the water clear; instead of algae, especially bluegreen algae, taking up the nutrients and making the water murky and green.

Birch Lake, in White Bear Lake, is a healthy urban lake and a standout in the Vadnais Lake Area Watershed. Its native plant community is diverse, with some rare species and even a couple of new records for Ramsey County reported last year, as a result of close observation and surveys.

Keeping this lake healthy is a goal of the Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) and partners. Working toward this goal, a partnership project focused on removing invasive aquatic plants has been underway over the past 3 years. Partners in the project include the Birch Lake Improvement District (BLID), Ramsey County Soil and Water Conservation Division (RCSWCD), Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR), and the Dive Guys, which is a local company that removes invasive aquatic plants. The project is now in its third year; however, projects can’t begin without solid data and good science. Work toward the current project began in 2019, with an aquatic plant survey and a focused effort to understand where invasive Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) was found in the lake. Results of that survey showed that 11.4 acres of Birch Lake were infested with EWM. Using that information, partners in the watershed worked together to apply for a MN DNR Aquatic Invasive Species Control Grant. The proposal was awarded a 2-year grant to for removal of EWM. VLAWMO provided funds and staff to assist on pre and post surveys—which are a requirement of the grant—and technical assistance in managing the grant. BLID provided funds, and

was reimbursed for a portion of those funds through the grant, for handpulling of EWM with the Dive Guys.

Eurasian watermilfoil removal began in 2022 and continued in 2023. Dive Guys removed approximately 125 pounds of EWM over 2 days in 2022. In 2023, only a single day of handpulling was needed. A new infestation of invasive Curly-leaf pondweed was also detected as part of this focused project. That infestation was reported to MN DNR and removed as part of the project. During the post survey in 2023, only 1 EWM location and no Curly-leaf pondweed plants were detected. These invasive plant species have been reduced to such low levels that they were difficult to detect on the survey. Ongoing survey and removals will help to maintain the progress made on the project and could allow eradication of these invasive plants over time, with dedicated ongoing partnership efforts.

Eurasian watermilfoil is an invasive plant that originally came from Europe and Asia. In Minnesota, EWM also hybridizes with native Northern watermilfoil. The resulting hybrid plants are invasive too. The University of Minnesota has been working to identify hybrid EWM strains and better understand targeted removal strategies. As part of the Birch Lake project, EWM was collected and sent to the lab for genetic analysis. These samples were identified as hybrid watermilfoil and are reported in a statewide database that is available at: z.umn.edu/milfoilmap.

We now have improved understanding about the invasive plants in Birch Lake and have reduced their abundance. We have also been learning more about the native plants in Birch Lake. In conducting observations as part of the surveys for the project, we see that the healthy, diverse native plant community, with especially abundant fern pondweed and largeleaf pondweed, appear to be helping to keep the lake healthy and preventing the invasive plants from simply reestablishing in areas where they were removed. These native plants provide clean water, habitat for fish, food for wildlife, and are beautiful and important in and of themselves.

In addition to surveys conducted by local partners, the Minnesota

Biological Survey (MBS) with the MN DNR, recently visited lakes in our watershed, including Birch Lake during 2023. What they found in Birch Lake was exciting. Two native plants species were documented that are new records for Ramsey County. These are Spiny-spore quillwort and Slender watermilfoil. Both of these plants are found in shallow areas and not as likely to be sampled by the standard protocol. The standard protocol involves using the head of a rake tied to a rope to sample plants from the lake bottom. These new records emphasize the importance of having an aquatic plant expert visit and look closely. They also highlight the importance of Birch Lake and its native plant community.

Twenty-one native plants species were previously identified in the 2019 plant survey in Birch Lake. Three new species were added as part of the MBS survey in 2023, for a total of at least 24 native aquatic plant species. Birch Lake provides a surprising example of diversity below its surface. A healthy plant community is more resilient to environmental stressors such as extreme storm events, water-level fluctuations, drought, and can help prevent establishment of new invasive species.

There’s more than initially meets the eye when we look into a clear lake and observe a tangle of plants. Supporting those native plants means supporting clear lakes and improved water quality. Want to learn more? Check out the plant surveys for each lake under Waterbodies on the VLAWMO website at www.vlawmo.org.

Dawn Tanner is VLAWMO Program Development Coordinator.

Healthy native plants include bladderworts with pretty yellow flowers and duckweed which is often confused for algae but is a native plant.

Eurasian

SOUND

felt like a missing puzzle piece. “I was the only woman on my team when #MeToo started happening,” Defiel said. “I’ve had experiences in this industry I would have preferred not to have had.”

Defiel is confident, however, that her field is slowly getting better. “We have gotten to where more people are talking and are aware. There’s more respect.” She’s also no longer alone. “On my stage, there’s me and a female sound engineer,” she said. “It’s not just men making sounds … and Warner Bros. has been so kind.”

Bear Lake Area High School: “I want to thank the teachers that supported me, especially the teachers who encourage the students to pursue the arts — mostly movies!”

Defiel also has kind words for White

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

CONTRIBUTED

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected incidents:

Birchwood

In the latest episode of “The Abandoned House on Cedar Street”, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the scene of suspicious people removing appliances from a foreclosed home March 8. When deputies arrived on scene, they discovered the people had been hired by the foreclosure company.

Dellwood

• Deputies on stationary directed patrol along Dellwood Avenue March 5 cited a Minnesota motorist for speeding 45 mph in a 35 mph zone on northbound Dellwood Avenue and Peninsula Road, after they observed the vehicle overtake another vehicle. Deputies’ radar clocked the vehicle at 51 mph. The driver said his mom wanted him home and apologized for speeding.

Grant

• A trailer belonging to the complainant’s son was reported stolen March 7 from the 9000 block of Jamaca Avenue.

Mahtomedi

• Hallam Avenue residents reported vandalism to their vehicle Feb. 29 and items stolen from it.

• A Pineview Court resident at 5:30 p.m. March 1 reported three young girls for ringing her doorbell and taking pictures of the license plate of her vehicle as it was parked in her driveway. The activity is just another item on the long list of ongoing behaviors, so the complainant supplied deputies with a video of the girls in action.

• A living facility on Mahtomedi Avenue on March 1 reported a possible theft by an employee.

As for how to appreciate sound at the movies, Defiel has paradoxical advice. “Good sound is not noticeable; everything is balanced … unless it’s

• A verbal altercation was reported at 8:19 p.m. March 1 in the 1000 block of Griffin Avenue between two neighbors about one of them blocking an alley. Threats were alleged by one party and denied by the other. Deputies advised the combatants to just stay away from each other and to keep the alley clear.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 7:52 a.m. March 2 on eastbound Lincolntown Avenue near Long Lake Road for speeding 35 mph in a 25 mph zone by deputies on stationary speed patrol. As deputies positioned themselves behind the vehicle, they also noticed the license plate was bearing registration that had expired in June 2023.

• A Maple Street resident on March 2 reported that compromising pictures sent to another party over the internet found their way to a chatroom post without the complainant’s consent.

• Griffin Avenue residents reported a children’s fourwheeler stolen March 3, following an attempted forced entry to the garage.

Willernie

• A male of undisclosed identity was transported to Maplewood at 11:19 p.m. March 9, after his friend on Stillwater Road reported him for destroying property. The complainant declined charges.

a creator’s choice,” she noted. “Oh, and any place with Dolby Atmos” (a spatial audio technology for an immersive sound experience). It’s more work for me, but it’s worth it … You can pinpoint a sound, like a faraway helicopter, and put it behind the audience. It makes it fun.”

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

The White Bear Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• A vehicle stolen on Hoffman Road March 20 was later recovered in St. Paul without license plates.

• Two puppies found roaming around the 1900 block of Clarence Street March 20 were returned to their owner.

• A Bellaire Avenue resident called March 20 with questions about the coowner of her vehicle placing an airtag to monitor the vehicles location. She was advised to speak with the co-owner, her father, and to remove it while she is using the car if she doesn’t want to be tracked.

• Graffiti caused more than $600 in damage to playground equipment at Hidden Hollow Park March 20.

• Officers stumbles upon a civil disagreement at the intersection of County Road F and Jay Lane March 20.

• Robbery was reported in the 1900 block of County Road E.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 2100 block of South Shore Drive March 20.

• Officers responded to a civil problem in the 3500 block of Ebba Street March 21.

• Staff at the Public Storage facility on Buerkle Road reported a customer March 21 for being upset after they auctioned off the contents

of a storage unit she failed to make payment on. Officers advised her that she is no longer welcome on the property.

• Two parties were cited March 21 for falsifying a police report and leaving the scene of an accident that occurred on private property in the 2600 block of County Road E two days earlier.

• Officers responded to multiple reports of people racing near the intersection of Elm Street and Orchard Avenue March 21 and documented the license plates of the vehicles and owners’home addresses. Theft was reported in the 1700 block of County Road E March 22.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 2100 block of Second Street March 22.

• A package was stolen in the 1500 block of Fifth Street March 22.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 3100 block of McKnight Road N. March 22. Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1500 block of Park Street March 22.

• Officers caught 2 men in the act of stealing tires from a vehicle in the 3100 block of Karth Road March 23. The men were taken into custody on felony charges, but were transported to the hospital instead after they told officers they had ingested drugs.

While chaperoning the Mahtomedi High School trip to Europe, Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy and School Resource Officer Kelly Olson helped save the life of a woman in Munich, Germany. Deputy Olson noticed the woman was choking during breakfast at the hotel, and she succcessfully performed the Heimlich maneuver to clear her airway.

Zephyr Gala to fund industrial, engineering career readiness

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Suzanne Anderson wants to see Mahtomedi Public School students succeed in today’s workforce. She noted a growing demand specifically for engineering and industrial careers. These markets emphasize finding employees with detailed knowledge of cutting-edge technologies. However, Anderson notes that young workers with this expertise are hard to find.

Mahtomedi High School has classes that help students understand engineering design, research and collaboration skills. These are to help prepare them for future industrial and

“If you look at most manufacturing companies in Minnesota,” said Anderson, “they’ll say it’s difficult to find workers with good skills for these jobs.” Anderson is the executive director of the Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation. The foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports different programs and initiatives at Mahtomedi schools. These include literacy libraries, mental wellness programs and student clubs such as Youth In Government, Cooking Club and MahtO-Make-It.

WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD NOTES

• Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald and Shelby McQuay, senior municipal advisor and managing director at Ehlers Public Finance Advisors, presented a presale report at the school board’s April 3 meeting related to the district’s upcoming issuance of facilities and maintenance bonds.

To fund maintenance projects included in the district’s 10-year facility plan, voters approved a referendum on Nov. 5, 2019, to authorize ISD 624 to issue $326 million in school building bonds. The district has already issued $313 million of this amount.

On Aug. 14, 2023, the school board approved the sale of the remaining $13 million in school building bonds as well as $29,835,000 in facilities maintenance bonds.

“We are combining these bond amounts for efficiency in cost of issuance …” McQuay said. “As you get these bigger block sizes, those bigger amounts, a bigger payoff of principal each year, you have more interest from the market.”

McQuay explained that this amount has not yet been issued because the principal and interest payments are secured from the tax levy increase in 2019 and cannot exceed an amount that would cause interest and principal payments to go beyond the agreed-upon rate by the voters. “We’ve been targeting that level tax over time,” McQuay said.

The bonds have a call date written into the terms so the district can finish paying off the amount early, if need be. “We may be back here in a number of years to refinance the loans if the market is appropriate,” McQuay noted.

The credit rating process of

engineering careers.

Anderson said these classes will also ready students to enter the workforce postgraduation. Additionally, it will help them gain enough experience if they follow a traditional four-year university route. However, she noted that post-COVID, many Mahtomedi high school students no longer pursue this standard route.

“Some students are looking to start careers once they graduate,” said Anderson. “Others are going to two-year colleges or industrial trade schools. The school district is trying to meet that demand through these classes.”

At the Zephyr Gala, the foundation will highlight supporting students who want to pursue these careers. The gala is the foundation’s signature spring fundraising event. Its proceeds go towards investing in classroom tools and techniques for Mahtomedi schools. The gala aims to raise $250,000 to upgrade Mahtomedi schools’ technologies for industrial and engineering career readiness.

“This will help students get the skills

these bonds has already begun.

“I think we’ve got everything over to (Standard & Poor) for their assessment on the district’s underline rating,” reported McQuay, before adding, “You’ll also carry that AAA-enhanced rating from the state.”

“We anticipate an interest rate, given current market conditions, of 3.39%,” McQuay predicted.

“We are also anticipating a premium, so the market would pay (the district) additional for the purchase of your bond. We’ll be back on April 8, which is the day of sale, when we’ll know the actual results.”

• Wald and Director of Finance Andi Johnson proposed budget cuts that will achieve an 8% fund balance for the 2024-2025 school fiscal year.

“At the Feb. 12 school board meeting, the board approved the revised ’23-’24 school year budget and the projected ’24-’25 school year budget,” Wald said. “A key budget goal we have is to get to and maintain an 8% fund balance.”

To achieve this goal, the district will have to cut $1.4 million in expenses. After a thorough review, Wald and Johnson found that anticipated special education funding, lowered utility expenses and healthier market conditions for investment revenue covered $635,000 of this amount. The remainder will be met by relying more on in-house busing services, aligning staffing to projected enrollment and canceling a planned clerical position at the high school.

“This is not actually a person whose position is being cut,” Wald noted. “We had approved an addition of a clerical position and had built that into our budget … we’re just not going to add that.”

Logan Gion

they need to get into these jobs right out of high school,” said Anderson.

Gala proceeds will go to the digital arts classroom program and industrial trade/engineering classes at Mahtomedi middle and high schools, respectively. The digital arts program will receive upgrades to cameras, tripods and lighting kits, while the industrial trade/engineering class will receive upgrades to CNC routers, milling machines and robotic automation systems.

“This will apply to our art and business students,” said

Anderson. “These programs do a lot of collaborative work together.”

Jessi Pierce, a 2006 Mahtomedi High graduate and sports journalist for the Minnesota Wild, will be the gala’s emcee. “I love that Mahtomedi is allowing students to explore different career avenues,” Pierce said of the engineering and industrial programs.

“When I went to school there, the highlight was more so on where to go to college. The fact that the district is now emphasizing students to explore these different

MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD MEETING NOTES

• The board recognized Monica Still, Alternative Delivery of Specialized Instructional Services (ADSIS) paraprofessional at Wildwood Elementary School. She works with students one-on-one, helps them when they need social-emotional support, goes outside for recess support, works with small groups of students, and substitutes in the classroom. Wildwood Elementary Principal Scott Briske noted that Still is in her first year at Wildwood Elementary and is noted for her embodiment of hard work and kindness to the students and staff.

• Superintendent Barb Duffrin acknowledged stand-out students. Adam Johnson (Class of 2024) was recently named 916 student of the month, as characterized by his professional skills of leadership, problemsolving, teamwork, engagement and communication.

• More than 50 career professionals from higher education, the military and diverse career fields attended the Dessert & Dialogue community engagement event that featured Career and College. Participants engaged in three round table conversations about exceptional qualities, characteristics and skills students need for post-secondary success.

• Dr. Jennifer Reichel, director of Teaching and Learning, followed up with the discussion and questions about literacy, science and Spanish from the Feb. meeting and updated the board on the next steps to be taken. Reichel noted that district administration and stakeholder groups, education experts and leadership teams were part of the curriculum update process to replace Spanish instruction with STEM classes. “It was not a small group of teachers and parents,” she said. In addition, the district invited parent feedback as part of curriculum initiatives, improvements, course proposals and the World’s Best Workforce report. “It was hard,” Reagan said about the process. “Of course, we know how important literacy is, but not the part of Spanish going away,” she said. Reichel also noted that elemetary schools still offering Spanish are often “immersion” programs in larger districts and that elementary schools offering non-immersion Spanish have tradeoffs with other content areas. Reichel added that often elementary schools retaining nonimmersion foreign language programs are not yet moving to implement the new literacy expectations. In

paths is tremendous.” Pierce is also the cohost for the Bardown Beauties Podcast alongside Alexis Pearson. The show features discussions and inside looks at Minnesota hockey from across the state. The gala will be held at the JX Event Venue in Stillwater from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, April 12. Tickets for the event are sold out.

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

considering the options, the district prioritized a solution that ensured implentation of standards while being mindful of upcoming expectations, Reichel said. “We also prioritized a financial solution that did not require additional funding, because this is not a one time expenditure, but rather a solution that takes place over time.” As the district implements the curriculum updates, families and staff will be notified about them, she said.

• The 2024-2025 Academic Calendar is set after the board approved revisions. Notable changes include the grades 6-8 conferences added to the Feb. 13 and Feb. 20 dates.

• Duffrin noted that Community Education registration for Summer 2024 opened on March 14. In April, the MAEF online auction is scheduled for April 10-14; the next Coffee & Conversations is set for April 11 from 10-11 a.m. The Zephyr Gala will be held on April 12. The board next meets at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 25 in the District Center Community Room, 1520 Mahtomedi Avenue.

Loretta B. Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@ presspubs.com or 651-4071200.

Funds from the 2024 Zephyr Gala will go toward upgrading equipment for students who are pursuing engineering and industrial careers.

PHOTOS

The Zephyr Gala is the Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation’s main fundraising event for the school district.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Project teaches heritage of indigenous, minority groups

area,” said Battala. “We want to educate people on that and Native American history in general.”

The project itself is a brand-new addition to the society. While the society has done past presentations on Native American history, it has never been part of an ongoing project.

If it succeeds, Battala anticipates the project will evolve beyond its current scope.

“We hope to turn this into a full-time, sustainable project,” said Battala. “We want to connect with not just Native Americans but other minority groups in White Bear Lake.”

The society plans

various presentations for the project’s ongoing initiative. One will be a talk from Annette Lee of the Native Skywalkers Initiative at the White Bear Lake Armory on Thursday, April 6. The discussion will be on Indigenous knowledge of the sky and perspectives on community wellness in the 21st century.

The Native Nations 101 program from the Native Governance Center will also give Zoom presentations. These will allow attendees to learn about tribal sovereignty and how tribal governments work.

A traveling exhibit from the Minnesota Humanities Center will also take place at a later date.

Battala hopes the project

will garner enough interest to be relaunched in the future. “We’re trying to reach as many people as possible about this,” said Battala. “The feedback we’ve received so far has been anything but negative.”

One plan is to work on implementing the project’s teachings in White Bear Lake Area High School’s public curriculum. Battala also hopes to develop similar educational initiatives focusing on other minority groups.

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

Above: A group of Willow Lane Elementary School Kindergarten students pose in front of a palace backdrop during a Royal Tea Party celebrating the 100th day of school that

about Kings and

Above: Event organizers, including Sara Goos, and parent volunteers also got into the spirit of the festivities with proper tea drinking etiquette, fancy attire and some royal bling accessories.

left: The students were served a variety of baked goods and confections during the special “100 Days Smarter” event. Find more photos at presspubs.com.

District continues to exceed state graduation rate, ALC tops list

The district’s most recent four-year graduation rate, released by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), shows White Bear Lake Area Schools topping the state’s graduation rate by 5.7 percentage points, with 89.0% of 2023 seniors earning their diploma within four years.

The 2023 graduation rate at White Bear Lake Area High School - South Campus, which does not include students from the district’s Area Learning Center (ALC) or Transition Education Center (TEC) programs, is 94%. The Area Learning Center’s graduation rate of 73% is the highest ALC rate in the area. This most recent ALC rate is an increase of 9 percentage points over 2022 and 22 percentage points over 2021.

“The intentional work being done at each of our high school buildings is paying off and we are seeing results, including the narrowing of the achievement gap,” said Superintendent Wayne Kazmierczak. “Students are putting in the effort and owning their learning. Adults in the district serve as supportive guides, providing rigorous curriculum and focused efforts on making learning relevant for each of our students.”

Multiple White Bear Lake Area Schools student groups exceeded the statewide average by double digits: English learners by 17.9 percentage points, Black students by 14.6 percentage points; and students receiving special education services

by 14.4 percentage points. Also notable are the district’s Hispanic or Latino group graduation percentage at 9.6 percentage points and students eligible for free or reduced-priced meals at 8.8 percentage points higher than the Minnesota average.

“We work to provide a school setting where students feel empowered and connected to their learning, their futures and the staff members who support them,” said ALC principal Gretchen Harriman.

“By getting to know our students, we are able to help them navigate toward their goals now and in the future.”

WBLAHS - South Campus’ graduation rate is fourthhighest among area high schools, topping Forest Lake Area High School, Roseville

High School, Irondale High School, North Senior High School, and Tartan High School and following Mounds View High School, Mahtomedi High School and Centennial High School. Those students who do not graduate in four years have the opportunity to continue on in the district through alternative programs at the Area Learning Center, where most earn their diploma. The Transition Education Center also provides young adults ages 18-22 with specialized programming designed to meet their post-secondary transition goals as they earn their diploma.

“We understand that high school graduation is an important culmination of a student’s experience,

and we are focused on providing supports toward that milestone throughout a learner’s career — from the time they take their first step into the classroom through the time they are walking across the commencement stage,” said Kazmierczak. “We are excited to see the positive influence our students will experience by coming together at White Bear Lake Area High School next fall. It is an exciting time to be a Bear, and we are committed to helping students build their futures and create their successes.”

White Bear Area Schools

William A. LeMire, IV

Age 60, of Vadnais Heights, MN, passed away 3/22/24.

Bill was born on 6/6/63 and grew up in Escanaba, MI, as the oldest of Dr. Bill and Nancy LeMire’s six children. He cherished his Irish Catholic family, his small town roots, and innumerable friendships. Bill went on to graduate from the College of St Thomas, the William Mitchell College of Law, and then the University of St. Thomas with a MA in Catholic Studies. He practiced law for 25 years, first at Robins, Kaplan, Miller and Ciresi, then Foley and Mansfield, and then Arthur Chapman, before joining the Labouré Society as Director of Advancement. Bill’s work at Labouré over the last 8 years brought him great joy and satisfaction in supporting those pursuing Catholic vocations. Bill will always be remembered for his strong Catholic faith, his love for his family, and his enthusiastic and lifelong fandom for the Green Bay Packers. Bill is preceded in death by his father, Dr. William A. LeMire, III, and brother-in-law, Brian Franks. He is survived by Liz Jansen, and their children, Billy, Margaret and Maria, as well as his mother, Nancy, his siblings, Laura, Anne Franks, Joe (Becky), Patrick (Pam), and Jim, his beloved nieces and nephews, Megan, Zach, Abby, Grace, Thomas (Olivia), Rachel, Jack, Jaret, Savanna, Sawyer, Quinn, Gabe and Sloane, great nieces, Taylor and Kendall, and great nephew, Owen.

Mass of Christian Burial 1pm Friday, April 5, 2024, at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN. Visitation 3-7 p.m.

on Thursday, April 4, at O’Halloran and Murphy Funeral Home, 575 S. Snelling Ave, St. Paul. Private interment at St. Mary of the Lake Cemetery.

Bill and his family give their heartfelt thanks and praise to the exceptional staff at Our Lady of Peace Hospice for their loving and compassionate care. Memorials preferred to Labouré Society rescuevocations.org or Our Lady of Peace Hospice ourladyofpeacemn.org.

Irene A. Crisman

Age 92, of White Bear Lake, passed away on March 8, 2024. Preceded in death by husband Vernon “Bud” and grandson Geoffrey. Survived by children Christine Chambers, Susan, Nancy Swanson, Gregory (Deb) & Rhonda Gosen; 11 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren and sister Rosella Pohlman (Leo). A private family service and interment at Union Cemetery, White Bear Lake was held. Arrangements MuellerMemorial.com651-429-4944.

Denise Marie Satrom

Age 70, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 22, 2024 at Cerenity Care Center of White Bear Lake.

Born on March 17, 1954 to Richard and Beverly Gill of Dearborn, MI, Denise graduated from Edsel Ford High School and then honorably served her country in the United States Army. She later began her career with the US Postal Service.

Denise was united in marriage to Larry Satrom on January 20, 2001 in White Bear Lake. Together they enjoyed gardening and travel, hiking, biking and canoeing in the national and state parks and area lakes and trails. Throughout her life, Denise possessed a strong faith and compassion for others. She will also be remembered for her love of music and her wonderful crocheting, canning and baking talents which she eagerly shared.

Denise was diagnosed with the fatal disease Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) in 2009 at age 54 and given 5-7 years to live, but Denise was never one to give up. The disease forced an early retirement from the USPS and the coworkers she loved. Her disease progression required moving to care centers for the last 8+ years of her life. Although aphasia stole her ability to speak years ago, her beautiful smile and the love she always conveyed to others continued until her death. Denise’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her many caregivers for their comfort and care.

Denise is survived by her husband Larry; sons Dennis Sarracco (FL) and Charlie Sarracco (OH); granddaughter August; and first husband Mike Sarracco; siblings Cindy (Jack) Deo, Charlie (Shannen) Gill and Doug Gill (Bonee Bonini), all of the Upper Peninsula of MI; and in-laws Donn (Linda) Satrom of Roseville, MN, Carol Christiansen and Merrie (Jerry) Rolland of Grand Forks, ND, along with numerous nieces and nephews

Memorials are suggested to the Cerenity Care Center of White Bear Lake (1900 Webber St.) or the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. A memorial service and celebration of life to be announced. Visit www.neptunesociety.com.

Joyce Lou (Lessard) Kjeldseth

Dec. 9, 1941 - March 14, 2024.

White Bear Lake, MN. Burial will take place at 1 p.m. on Sat., April 13 at Forest Hill Cemetery, Duluth. Celebration of Life, 3 p.m., Sun., April 21 at Bradshaw, White Bear Lake, visitation: 2 p.m. and a meal to follow.

Jane Marie Anderson

A long time resident of WBL passed away surrounded by her loving family on 23 February 2024 after a 5 year battle with lung disease. She was a loving wife for over 43 years, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother. Her kindness, strength, and love touched countless lives. She was preceded in death by her parents (Robert and Lorraine) and two sisters (Luanne and Barb). She is survived by loving husband Alan, children Matt (Megan), Sara (Brad) and Andrew (Ashley), sisters Bonnie and Joanne and grandchildren Summer, Hudson, Brooklyn, Olivia, Evelyn, and Jacob. She will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Lung Association in Jane’s memory. A private family celebration of her life will be held in April.

Muriel K. Fitch

1926-2024, Muriel Fitch, age 97, of Lino Lakes passed away at Arbor Lane Memory Care on March 21, 2024. She was born in Minneapolis, MN in 1926. She was a hardworking entrepreneur most of her adult life.

Muriel was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Ernest Fitch, her brothers Frank and Robert, her son-in-law

Alan, and daughter-in-law

Judy. Muriel is survived by her sons Steven and Donald (Cindi) Fitch, daughter Janice Lonneman (Bob Mathews), 7 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Celebration of Life April 21, 2024 at Gethsemane United Methodist Church now Lino Lakes Community Church 7330 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, MN Visitation 1pm Service 1:30 p.m. followed by lunch.

READ REUSE RECYCLE

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Waiting Child

Lawrence (Larry), 14, is very insightful. His wittiness, sarcasm, and humor make him a lot of fun to be around. Some of Larry’s favorite things include Transformers, spicy buffalo wings, the Green Bay Packers, the show Friends, and cheesecake! Larry also enjoys being in the water and being around dogs. If Larry could plan a day of fun, he would want to go to the movie theater. He said “It Is not about the movie. It is more of just the experience of going to the theater”. He would order popcorn and

Orange Fanta. According to Larry, he would like to join a family that is not going to put pressure on him, a family that is not going to try and change who he is, a family that is going to take him to try new foods, and someone that will support his relationships with his siblings and birth relatives that live out of state. Following adoption, Larry will need to maintain contact with his siblings. Only Minnesota families are being considered at this time.

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E of Portland Rte 190 – N of Cty Rd E – E of Century(120)

Rte 263 – N of Lake – E of Hwy 61

Rte 124 – N of Birch – E of Hazel Rte 274 – S of Bald Eagle – W of White Bear Ave

Rte 128 – S of Cty Rd F – W of White Bear Ave

Rte 291 – S of Oneka – E of Hwy 61 Rte 247 – S of 8th St – W of Hwy 61 Rte 632 – S of North Rd – W o f Center Park Rte 638 – N of Lake

school diploma and a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record is essential.

Applications available Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm, at Lexington City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 or online at www.ci.lexington.mn.us/.

Starting salary $18.76/hour. For more information call 763-784-2792.

Position is open until filled.

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

Vadnais Heights

• A Keep Our Kops Safe (KOPS) alert was issued at 4:04 a.m. March 3 on a Vadnais Heights man, 29, who fled the scene after assaulting a woman in the 1200 block of County Road D Circle E. Deputies were too late to catch the suspect while responding to a domestic assault report at that address.

• An Eagan man reported a hit and run accident that caused minor damage to his vehicle March 3 in the 100 block of Skyline Drive.

• A Vadnais Heights woman, 42, was issued a trespass notice at 10:31 p.m. March 3 from a dining establishment in the 1100 block of County Road E, after deputies responded to a disorderly conduct report involving one of their patrons.

• A St. Paul man reported his wallet stolen March 3 while he was working at a construction site near the intersection of Rice Street and I-694.

• A Vadnais Heights woman reported from the 3800 block of Stockdale Drive that she had accidently sent a death threat to another person March 5.

• A Vadnais Heights woman, 49, was issued a trespass notice March 5 in the 300 block of Oak Grove Parkway, after she showed up at the building of her former employer and caused an uncomfortable, loud scene. A Target Corporation employee reported

a case of suspected theft via fraud March 5 from the Vadnais Heights location in the 900 block of County Road E. The male suspect fled the store prior to the arrival of deputies.

• A Hugo man reported being assaulted by an unknown female customer, following a fight at 1:08 a.m. March 6 while he was working at a local watering hole in the 1100 block of County Road.

A Chippewa Falls, Wis. man reported that someone punctured one of the tires on his Chrysler 200 while it was parked March 6 in front of a Holiday Inn and Suites near Vadnais Center Drive and Willow Lake Blvd.

White Bear Township

• A Cub Foods employee reported a male and female stealing items from the store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive on March 5. Both suspects committing the misdemeanor theft were gone before deputies arrived on scene.

• A Minneapolis man, 24, was issued a trespass notice from the Cub Foods on March 6, after he neglected to pay for some bananas and shoved loss prevention personnel when they tried to detain him. Deputies responded to the disorderly conduct report in time to identify and ban the suspect from the store.

• A White Bear Lake man, 24, was issued a trespass notice from the Vadnais Heights Cub Foods March 7, after he harassed customers and people in the parking lot for no apparent reason.

set to occur

Vadnais Heights city crews will begin flushing hydrants during the weeks of April 15 and April 22. The locations affected will include the area north of County Road F for the week of April 15 and the southern area for the week of April 22. Residents should refrain from parking their cars near hydrants in these areas between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Although cloudy or discolored water may

be present while hydrant flushing occurs, it will not indicate a health risk in the water. The cloudiness will disappear if residents let their taps run. During this time, residents should also be cautious when doing laundry, especially whitecolored garments. Those with questions should call Public Service Superintendent Ken LaCasse at 651-204-6053.

especially new clients that didn’t have a clinic, because we were barely being able to fit our current clients,” Sitter recalled. “I thought it really stunk that their only option was the emergency clinic, which is really expensive, and you have to wait for hours and hours.”

The urgent care offers same-day appointments only from Monday through Friday. It offers in-house blood work and diagnostics, imaging via X-rays and ultrasounds, minor surgeries, end-of-life care and an in-house pharmacy.

The clinic does not offer vaccinations or elective procedures, but can help when it comes to things like vomiting or diarrhea, coughing or sneezing, minor wounds, skin rashes and more. (See pullout box for more information.)

The clinic is designed to feel more like a home, rather than a pet hospital.

“I wanted a warm, welcoming, homey atmosphere and not so sterile and ‘doctory,’” she explained. “I wanted it to look a bit more like a house versus a hospital.”

For clients who are forced to make one of the

toughest decisions they will ever have to make, they will find a room that looks just like a living room, rather than a doctor’s office. They can sit on a couch, or the floor with their pup while they lay on a comfortable bed rather than a cold metal table.

In addition to the health of the pets, Sitter also cares about the health of her staff.

“A lot of people in this field struggle with mental health issues,” she said. “One thing I wanted to do is to open a space that has a positive company culture, (values) lots of open communication and puts staff first.” She added, “I want to help as many pets get seen in a timely, more cost-effective matter, but also while balancing and maintaining like mental health of the staff.”

Dr. Sitter currently has two technicians, Riley Jorissen and Anny Yang. Jorissen, of Fridley, has been in the field for 26 years, 14 of those serving as a certified veterinary technician.

“During COVID, the veterinary field changed a lot; it changed for the worse. A lot of technicians are leaving the field,” she explained. Jorissen left the field herself for a year and was trying to figure out what she was going to do next. She stumbled across what Dr. Sitter was doing and applied to be the receptionist.

“During the interview, I was impressed with her wanting to keep everything local and just helping the people around us,” Jorissen explained. “I was excited to work with Dr. Liz because she’s offering something that is so new to this field. I am super excited to like be at the beginning of this. Twentysix years in this field, and this is probably the coolest thing I’ve done.”

Yang, of St. Paul, has been in the field for 3 1/2 years. She said she is looking forward to the opportunity to continue to grow her skill set in the field.

“I think with this clinic being here, it will help a lot of the clients that come in,” she said. “We are open to seeing anybody.”

The clinic is located at 4874 Highway 61 in White Bear Lake. For more information about Aurora Urgent Veterinary Clinic, visit www. auroraurgentvet.com. To make a same-day appointment, call the clinic at 651-422-PETS (7387).

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

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Aurora Urgent Veterinary Clinic is likely the first stand-alone pet urgent care in the Twin Cities. Pictured (from left) are Dr. Liz Sitter and Technicians Anny Yang and Riley Jorissen.

Bears alum signs with NHL’s Kraken

Lleyton Roed played two seasons with Bemidji State and was named to the All-CCHA first team this season.

Lleyton Roed, former White Bear Lake and Bemidji State hockey player, has signed with the Seattle Kraken of the National Hockey League.

The Kraken announced Wednesday that Roed signed a three-year, entrylevel contract. His first assignment is to finish the season with the Coachella Valley (California) Firebirds of the American Hockey League.

In two seasons at Bemidji, Roed logged 27 goals and 34 assists. This season, he was an All-Central Collegiate Hockey Association first team pick, a Hobey Baker Memorial Award nominee and a CCHA Forward of the Year finalist.

“It obviously is a dream come true to sign an NHL

Barber notching wins, strikeouts at Wichita State University

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Chloe Barber, former all-state pitcher and slugger for White Bear Lake, is off to a strong collegiate start pitching for Wichita State University.

The 2023 graduate was named Division I National Freshman of the Week and American Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week at the same time.

Barber has pitched 52 innings on a staff with four pitchers throwing between 28 and 57 innings. Barber’s 5-3 record, 3.77 earned-run-average, and 80 strikeouts all lead the staff. The Shockers have a 17-12 record. Highlights include:

• Barber threw a shutout against Texas-San Antonio, saved two games in a series against East Carolina, and struck out 33 batters in 15 innings in an Arkansas tournament while allowing just two runs.

• The 5-foot-11 right-hander struck out 15 batters (tying the team record) in a 3-1 win over Arkansas, then broke the record with 16 in an 8-1 win over Illinois State. In her college debut, against Sam Houston she struck out

five in two innings.

• Barber led the Bears to the state semifinals her last two seasons. As a senior, she won 20 games and hit 14 home runs. At Wichita, she is a pitcher only.

contract and especially with such a great organization,” said Roed, in a report on the Bemidji State sports website. He expressed gratitude to the Beavers coaching staff and teammates for “pushing me and supporting me” and to his family for “being there for me my entire life.”

In three seasons with the Bears, Roed totaled 44 goals and 66 assists for 110 points in 63 games. His father, Peter Roed, played professional hockey in the four minor leagues, ECHL, AHL, DEL and UHL. His brother, Nolan Roed, was a Mr. Hockey finalist this season as a senior with the Bears and will play for St. Cloud State.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

We

Caleb Anderson

Bruce Strand

Bears track opens with strong showing

White Bear Lake boys track opened with an indoor meet at Mankato State University, placing fourth among 26 teams. Caleb Anderson placed second in the 200 dash (23.24 seconds) and third in the 60 dash (7.11). Easton Miles was second in long jump (20-7 1/4). Tomi Animasaun was third in the 60 meter hurdles (9.03) with Femi Animasaun fourth (9.04). Luke Williams was third in the 1600 (4:24.65) and Keith Johnson fifth in the 400 (52.41). Two Bears relays placed second: the Bears 4x400 (3:36.68) with Rithy Sain, Tomi Animasaun, Isaac Kolstad and Johnson; and the 4x800 (8:21.06) with Kolstad, Vaughn Larson, Tanner Hoel and Ryley Murphy.

BE A SPONSOR!

BE A SPONSOR! thank you for your support

thank you for your support

The Class of 2024 Senior All Night Party is looking for sponsors! We have several sponsorship levels available and all money goes towards the food, entertainment and prizes for the graduating class of 2024

PLATINUM - $2,000

The Class of 2024 Senior All Night Party is looking for sponsors! We have several sponsorship levels available and all money goes towards the food entertainment and prizes for the graduating class of 2024

PLATINUM - $2,000

GOLD -$1,500

PLATINUM - $2,000

GOLD -$1,500

GOLD - $1,500

SILVER - $1,000

BRONZE - $500

BEAR - $250

SENIOR - $100

The Class of 2024 Senior All Night Party is looking for sponsors! We have several sponsorship levels available and all money goes towards the food, entertainment and prizes for the graduating class of 2024. This all-night “lock-in” party helps the graduates of 2024 celebrate this important milestone in their life in a fun, safe environment. We are asking the community and local businesses to help make this a successful event for the kids. We will gladly accept donations of cash, merchandise, or gift certificates. No donation is too small. Help us make this a night they will always remember!

This all-night lock-in party helps the graduates of 2024 celebrate this important milestone in their life in a fun safe environment We are asking the community and local businesses

This all-night lock-in party helps the graduates of 2024 celebrate this important milestone in their life in a fun safe environment We are asking the community and local businesses to help make this a successful event for the kids We will gladly accept donations of cash merchandise, or gift certificates No donation is too small Help us make this a night they will always remember!

SILVER - 1,000 BRONZE - $500 BEAR - $250 SENIOR - $100 linktr.ee/wblseniorparty

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SILVER - 1,000 BRONZE - $500 BEAR - $250 SENIOR - $100 linktr ee/wblseniorparty

EMAIL US AT: WBLSENIORPARTYDONATIONS@GMAIL COM

EMAIL US AT:

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VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO DONATE OR BUY A GIFT OFF OF THE WISHLIST!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO DONATE OR BUY A GIFT OFF OF THE WISHLIST! linktr.ee/wblseniorparty

both on and off the field. Versatile offensive threat with strong outside shooting and crease finishing skills. Magnetic team leader and positive influencer.”