The White Bear Press

Ramsey County looks to combat sex trafficking

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

Did you know that if you filled Target Field 17 times, it would represent all of the women and girls in the state of Minnesota who have been a victim of some form of domestic violence, sexual harassment, assault and stalking?

Ramsey County Attorney John Choi imagines a world without sex trafficking, where boys will grow up to be loving and kind and girls will be valued and safe.

“How we raise our boys matters,” said Choi during a White Bear Lake Rotary meeting. “Trafficking is all about the demand. The vast majority of those people who are the perpetrators are men.”

Ukrainian students bid farewell

White Bear Lake is saying goodbye to a group of 30 Ukrainian exchange students who have spent the last five weeks exploring the city and learning about civic engagement. The students are a part of a nonprofit leadership exchange program through Global Synergy Group. The exchange program has been sending students from Ukraine to the United States since 2012 to help the teens understand American government and civic engagement. Kelly Clement and Steve Bucher stepped up to host the going away party at their home on Stewart Avenue. Irina Fursman and her husband, Richard, founded Global Synergy Group in 2012 to build connections between Minnesota and Irina’s home country of Ukraine. Today, those connections have been a key foundation for supporting Ukrainian refugees.

Council sets preliminary budget and tax levy

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

White Bear Lake’s total proposed preliminary tax levy for 2024 represents an increase of $2,245,000, or 22.55%, over 2023’s levy.

Included in the 22.55% figure is a 17.02% increase — or $1,694,000 — for operations and a 5.53% increase for debt service related to the public safety facility project.

“Receipt of federal COVID aid has expired and is no longer a source of revenue,” said Lindy Crawford, city manager. “The city of White Bear Lake, just like many other cities, has relied

on that funding over the past few years for operating and capital expenditures to offset property tax increases.”

Crawford gave a rundown of what some of the significant revenue and expenditure changes are for 2024. The revenue changes include the following:

• A decrease in building permit revenues.

• Interest revenue estimates for the year are an extrapolation of allocated earnings based on the average cash balance as of June 30, 2023.

• Reduction of the pavement management fund transfer of support for the engineering

operations previously embedded in the pavement management fund per council direction. The 2025 budget will include the final transfer for this item.

• Receipt of federal COVID aid has expired and is no longer a source of revenue. Expenditure changes include the following:

• Salary adjustments for the pay plan as well as a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) of 3%.

• Addition of two full-time firefighters/paramedics. Addition of a facility maintenance position.

SEE TAX LEVY, PAGE 2

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, 2023 statistics on worldwide human trafficking state that $99 billion is estimated to be made annually through sex trafficking and that 4.5 million people throughout the world are victims of forced sexual exploitation.

In 2011, Minnesota enacted the Safe Harbor Law, which protects sexually exploited youth under 18 from being charged for being involved in prostitution. Choi said the change has helped victims trust the police and be involved in testifying at trials.

“Officers who are doing all of this work at the BCA (Bureau of Criminal Apprehension) and local police departments are gaining better trust with the victims, and we are getting participation,” Choi said. “Now we’re at a point with our

NOELLE OLSON

SEE SEX TRAFFICKING, PAGE 24

Ramsey County Attorney John Choi speaks about sex trafficking at a White Bear Lake Rotary meeting.

We Do the Heavy Lifting for You!

651-323-4682 • johnsonjunkremoval.com

• Emerald ash borer diseased and dying tree removal program.

• Increase in employee health insurance benefits.

• Zoning code update project.

• Critical incident appropriations.

• Operating technology costs related to software systems, computer servers and additional IT support.

• Increase in routine city-owned facility cleaning charges and facility maintenance needs.

“For every property tax dollar, approximately 18 cents is collected by the city of White Bear Lake,” Crawford said. “The remainder is then divided among Ramsey and Washington counties, the school district and other agencies, and those other agencies include watershed districts and Met Council.”

Crawford noted the 18 cents of city taxes support a range of public services, such as 24/7 police and fire response, street maintenance sweeping, lighting, snowplowing, parks access and recreation activities, election activities, access

JUNK REMOVAL IS QUICK & EASY! IF YOU WANT IT GONE … IT’S GONE!

to city publications and access to elected officials and city staff. “Those services give residents an exceptional quality of life,” she said.

She also compared White Bear Lake’s annual tax levy with that of eight cities with similar populations. Despite White Bear Lake’s tax levy rate hike, its overall levy is still lower than that in Golden Valley, West St. Paul, Hopkins, South St. Paul, New Hope, Fridley, New Brighton and Shoreview.

City Council members also expressed support for the 2024 preliminary tax levy and budget, as all voted in favor of it. The levy cannot be raised but can be decreased after the Truth-In-Taxation hearing set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12, in the City Hall Council Chambers.

“We’re setting the ceiling tonight pursuant to state law so it can always go down from there,” Mayor Dan Louismet said.

“It’s a big increase,” Council Member Bill Walsh said, “and I’m interested in any ideas between now and Dec. 12 when we pass the final levy.”

The next White Bear Lake City Council meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26, at White Bear Lake City Hall, 4701 Highway 61 in White Bear Lake.

Dorothy and Joel are officially retired

We would like to thank the White Bear Community for the years of support and the many friendships that were formed.

The goldsmiths and craftsmen you have learned to trust are going to continue to carry on the repairs, custom designs and special orders. We still have a selection of beautiful jewelry remaining for sale.

In the meantime, many of our window displays, cases and more will be offered for purchase. Items will be added to the sale as we clean through the store.

Again, we thank you all for your patronage."

Graduate Gemologist G.I.A.

This graph shows the breakdown of White Bear Lake’s property tax for residents.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Debt management plan: Pros and cons

Cons

A debt management plan (DMP) is a strategic effort to eliminate unsecured debt such as credit cards and medical bills.

A DMP is a way to pay off highinterest unsecured debt – mostly credit cards – without having to take out a bank loan. DMPs reduce the interest rate on credit cards to around 8% and make monthly payments affordable, so consumers can pay off debt in three to five years.

The plans are offered by nonprofit credit counseling agencies, who do a detailed analysis of your income and expenses to create a household budget that includes a fixed monthly payment tailored to what you can afford. The plan is presented to credit card companies, who must approve the plan.

Those who enroll make monthly deposits with a credit counseling organization, which uses that money to pay the debts according to a predetermined payment schedule developed by the counselor and your creditors. Your monthly payment is tailored to what you can afford.

Once approved, a debt management plan simplifies the payment process for consumers who use 3-4 credit cards with 3-4 deadlines and 3-4 minimum payments to remember each month. One payment to one source, once a month – and no loan – is how a debt management plan makes managing your money easier.

TIPS

Pros

• Offers credit card consolidation without a loan, meaning you don’t need to take on more debt to pay off your existing debt.

• It will help you stay more organized and punctual with your bills and payments.

• It creates a realistic monthly budget with a financial goal that can get you out of debt within

three to five years.

• Making regular and timely payments can improve your credit report and credit score over time.

• If you’ve been delinquent about paying bills, a DMP can bring your credit accounts to current status, called “re-aging.” That, too, can help your credit score, though your credit report likely will still contain the information

about past late payments and delinquencies.

• It will save you from late fees that make matters worse for your finances.

• Creditors or debt collectors will stop calling.

• You’ll be given advice about your finances from a professional

• You’ll be required to close your credit card accounts to avoid taking on even more debt.

• You won’t be allowed access to new lines of credit such as an auto loan or a loan to remodel your home.

• You must commit to making the single monthly payment consistently.

Some of your creditors may not approve the plan, meaning you’ll be obligated to pay them separately from the monthly DMP payment.

• The credit counseling agency might charge a small enrollment fee and/or monthly maintenance fee, though some of those can be waived.

If you have a steady income that you can use to pay off your unsecured debt at a lower interest rate than you’re currently paying, and if you can survive without needing new lines of credit over the length of the plan, then a debt management plan might work for you. The statistics show that a DMP isn’t a sure thing for everybody. Pre-pandemic, credit counseling agencies nationally were recommending DMPs to about half of the people who came to them for help with their debt, but that number has dropped during the pandemic.  Debt.org

Fall Festivals

Taste of White Bear, St. Jude’s Cornfest, Bear Water Run, Township Day, and St. Mary’s Fall Festival are just a few of the activities that have happened the past couple of weekends. These community events and fundraisers usher in the new season every fall, and I always try to get to as many as I can.

Publisher’s View

Carter

Johnson

Being that our family lived in Osceola, Wisconsin for many years when we ran the sun newspaper there and the Country Messenger in Scandia, there are a few community events we have a tradition of attending. I started the day Sept. 9 at Wheels and Wings, a car and airplane show held at the Osceola airport. In my opinion, the cheese curds put out by the Osceola Lions Club were 10 times better than the state fair this year and the tacos were outstanding. I could have stayed all day, but headed back to get to Pine Tree Apple Orchard for the Taste of White Bear. We ended the day at Cornfest, the annual community event at St. Jude of the Lake church in Mahtomedi. We arrived in time to listen to the live music. A highlight was when Fr. Chad VanHoose took the stage.

Many of these events are entirely volunteer-run and organized to bring our communities together. When you go, you are sure to run into people you know and it’s a good opportunity to catch up with friends and neighbors. If you missed out the last couple of weekends, check out the What’s Happening page of the paper to find out what else is coming up.

Hunting opener

The duck hunting season starts this weekend, Sept. 23. When we were living in our home on a small lake in Cambridge, Minnesota, our alarm clock was the shotgun blast just down the shoreline where duck hunters sat in a temporary blind. For many, the cool fall weather gets them excited for football; for me is the hunting season. Archery deer hunting season is Sept. 16 through Dec. 31; the deer firearms season kicks off Nov. 4 across the state. Be sure to wear blaze orange - on yourself and your pets - if you’re walking in the woods or near a hunting zone. It’s great to be living in state that offers such a diverse list of outdoor activities.

No parking zone

Recently the city of White Bear Lake has posted no parking signs on the city-owned docks designed to be public parking for boaters on the lake. Over the last few years availability of public docking has decreased with the removal of dock cleats so boaters could not tie up. The rationale is that public boat parking is hindering the businesses providing boat slip rentals.

This season all of the cleats on public docks were removed, eliminating all public docking spaces for not only pontoons and powerboats, but also kayaks, PWC’s, row boats and paddle boards. Essentially has this turned the taxpayer-funded public dock into a private one. It affects lake homeowners as well as those who launch a boat on the lake for the day. The city has used public funds to renovate, expand and improve the docks and boardwalk and provide public restrooms and public parking for vehicles and boats, until now.

I’ve talked to a few slip renters who have said after the renovation of the boardwalk, crime and theft has increased. Crime is up everywhere, and locking down the public docks and restricting lake-users access to the business district seems extreme.

Our regular readers know I love boating and being on the water. I enjoy taking the pontoon to dinner or paddle boarding over for coffee on the weekends. I supported the redevelopment of the business district, and we want to see the area and the businesses there thrive. Let’s encourage our city and neighboring business to keep the public docks open.

Fall foliage and fishing

Fall is my favorite season. Every year I look forward to the Minnesota Vikings and a possible playoff run for the Minnesota Twins. But most of all, I look forward to fishing. Recently, I went up to Onamia to fish on Mille Lacs Lake. I haven’t had much luck there as far as fishing goes and I call it the “Dead Sea.” I usually try and fish there at least once a year. I went out on a four-hour launch recently and didn’t even have a bite (hence the “Dead Sea” comment).

Noelle’s Notes

Noelle Olson

However, the launch was entertaining. I was with a friend of mine and it’s always interesting to meet other people on the launch. It’s fun to watch other people catch fish. Someone caught the smallest walleye I’ve ever seen. To be honest, it looked like a minnow. But I was surprised how many larger walleyes were caught. It’s been years since I’ve seen that many walleye caught over 20 inches in Mille Lacs. I should note that Mille Lacs has a possession limit of one walleye between 20-

Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election. Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that.

Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $45 fee. Please call 651407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

23 inches or one longer than 28 inches. All other walleye must be immediately released. Personally, I like the smallmouth bass in the lake. They are great fighters and I seem to have better luck at catching them. But not this day. There was a young woman on the launch who did something I had never seen before in my over 50 years of fishing. She was sitting at the back of the launch boat and had just caught a small walleye. After her boyfriend took off the fish, she lost control of her fishing pole. I was looking at her and all of a sudden I saw her pole slowly slip from her hands and go into the water. I didn’t say anything but my friend said, “Captain, we have a pole overboard.” She didn’t panic but softly said to her boyfriend, “I just dropped my pole in the water.” He told her not to say anything. I couldn’t help but laugh. The “captain” was too busy in the front of the boat and didn’t know this had happened. If you’ve never been on a launch at Mille Lacs, the boats are pretty big and have plenty of room for people to move around freely. Needless to say, he never knew a fishing pole was missing when we left the launch.

Fall foliage

Fall colors are starting to emerge

in the St. Croix Valley. I live in St. Croix Falls and immediately noticed the leaves starting to change color while driving home recently on Highway 95. It really is a spectacular sight when those leaves are at their peak. It inspires people to drive for miles just to look at the splendor of color before they fall to the ground. What we don’t think about is whether we have to rake or leaf blow them into a fire or a bag. When I lived in Ohio, we had to bring them to the curb and the city picked them up. That was really nice because we had a lot of leaves. My kids loved jumping into the pile of leaves when they were young. What child doesn’t? I know I did. Honestly, I don’t like the work but it’s what we do every year when we have trees in our yard. And if you have a cabin, it’s extra work. But I believe it’s worth it to have trees and it’s a great way to get together with my kids and family. It goes by much faster when you have a lot of rakes working. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has a great resource on its website to see when the peak colors will arrive in a town near you.

Noelle Olson is editor of the White Bear Press. She can be reached at 651-407-1229 or whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.

LETTER GUIDELINES FOR ELECTION SEASON 2023

Letters for or against a candidate will qualify as paid letters. Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification.

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

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be

published as space permits.

Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

• Letters by campaign managers or candidates designed to champion the candidate’s position on a specific issue will be accepted as paid letters. Letters reprinted as part of letter-writing campaigns are paid letters.

All letters are subject to editing.

• We reserve the right to not publish any letter. The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication.

• The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov. 7 election will be printed in the Oct. 25 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.18.

To submit a letter, email news@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Council taking climate change seriously

I’m glad that Mr. Johnson in his recent letter to the editor pointed out that Vadnais Heights is looking to hire a natural resource specialist to help with environmental and sustainable goals. It’s about time our local elected leaders took climate change seriously. Just look at the articles in the Star Tribune within the last two weeks: “Minnesota gripped by worsening drought,” “Record setting heat for Labor Day,” “This summer was a global record breaker for the highest heat every measured,” “It’s so hot, the US Open adopted a new policy.” In fact, I would like to see our local leaders move even faster to implement sustainability initiatives.

Our newly elected Vadnais Heights council members were clear in their campaigning and their 2023 priorities and long-range vision planning (available on the city’s website), that they were going to support sustainability initiatives, from the design of infrastructure to conserve through policies, education, and actions on climate change, to ensuring we have resilient systems, to handling extreme weather. They also stated they would evaluate staffing levels related to these goals. And guess what, they were elected by a majority of our citizens! Looks like clear transparency to me. Tell us what you are going to do to get elected, establish plans and priorities, then execute what you said. I’m all for it. Thank you, Vadnais Heights City Council. By the way, I’m one of those Green Team volunteers who Mr. Johnson thinks are nonexistent.

Peter Border Vadnais Heights

Support natural resources specialist

In a recent letter to the editor, Mr. Johnson lamented about the city of Vadnais Heights hiring a natural resources specialist. He stated that for the life of him he cannot think of anything that we as citizens are doing in our homes or everyday lives that this position could help us with. I can think of many ways we can all benefit. My understanding from reading the council workshop and meeting minutes is that the primary reason for this position is to ensure our city maintains compliance with the judge’s orders from the White Bear Lake/DNR lawsuit. We are in the 5-mile radius and will need to conserve water usage when lake levels drop. Studies show the aquifers across the country are

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Lakeshore Players hosts happy hour for young professionals

Lakeshore Players kicks off its 2023-24 season this week, and young professionals in the area are invited to a budgetfriendly happy hour prior to the performance of “The Three Musketeers” on Thursday, Sept. 21.

The happy hour offering cheap drinks begins at 6 p.m., followed by the performance at 7:30 p.m. The cost of tickets are pay-whatyou-want, and can be purchased at lakeshoreplayers.org. The Hanifl Performing Arts Center is located at 4941 Long Avenue, White Bear Lake.

Plan to attend VHEDC annual dinner

Tickets are available for the Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation’s annual dinner, which will be held Nov. 9 at the Vadnais Heights Commons. In addition to recognizing local business leaders, keynote speaker John Marshall, regional vice president for Xcel Energy, will talk about “Building a Carbon-Free Energy Future.” Register at vhedc.com.

Celebrate Kowalski’s anniversary

As previously reported in the Press, Kowalski’s is celebrating its 40th anniversary with parties in all market locations on Saturday, Sept. 30. Stop by any Kowalski’s location from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for treats and special surprises.

being depleted at an alarming rate and will take thousands of years to recover, if they recover at all. Conserving our water usage through education, technology, infrastructure repairs and upgrades is at the top of my mind as to how this position will help each of us and our city.

This position is being funded by the water utility fund, which seems appropriate. Fees are collected and used for managing our city’s stormwater, groundwater and surface water. Our city was built on wetlands, and with the increasing extreme weather events, residents are increasingly having issues managing stormwater in their yards. This position will help manage our stormwater infrastructure, helping to reduce pollution runoff into our water bodies.

Another key benefit of this position will be helping our city obtain grants. Our city does not get LGA (local government aid) funding from the state like many of our surrounding communities, so receiving grant funding can be very helpful with the budget.

Then there is managing our “green space.” In the last resident survey, the results showed one of the top reasons people live in our city is because of our “green space” (parks/trails/trees/wetlands/ native plantings). Being among green space has tremendous mental and physical health benefits. This position will manage the health of our “green space.”

I support our City Council for moving forward to help our community.

Judy Lissick Vadnais Heights

Why no public parking?

I was extremely disappointed tonight as we boated by the docks on White Bear Lake and saw signs posted stating “No public mooring.” We’ve lived in White Bear Lake and Mahtomedi for nearly 25 years and enjoying the lake with the ability to also enjoy the city has been a core reason we live here. When we had a young family, we trailered our boat for day trips. Then, for 3 years, we rented a slip at White Bear Boatworks. Now, we have lived on the lake for almost 10 years and regularly enjoy stops at the docks for dinner and snacks until this summer when the cleats were removed and now these signs have been installed. When the redevelopment occurred, we were so thrilled that there were new

Can Minnesota’s foreign trade zones help your bottom line?

Are tariffs and duties for your global business a significant drain on your bottom line?

A foreign trade zone designation may be the answer to serious savings. The Washington County Community Development Agency and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development are ready to help explore the benefits and cost savings offered by foreign trade zones (FTZs) through a virtual workshop from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Whether importer, exporter, merchandise processing, warehouse or manufacturer — however you work in the global economy — you may be paying significant tariff, duties or processing fees. Foreign trade zones are designed to help global companies that have more than $2 million in revenue potentially realize hundreds of thousands or more in savings.

The virtual information session “Foreign Trade Zones: Possibly the best tax incentive you’ve never heard of” is provided at no cost.

This session features Marshall Miller, president of Miller & Company, a renowned expert in strategies and techniques for importing and exporting and special customs procedures, including analysis of benefits and establishment of U.S. foreign trade zones. The session will help you learn the benefits of FTZs, such as how to defer and reduce duty payments, how to store imported goods and export

bathrooms, outdoor seating, a parking garage, and boat parking - all for public use. I’m hard pressed to think of another sizable lake community that doesn’t offer public boat parking (Excelsior/ Wayzata, Spicer, Walker). Why is the city removing the public boat parking?

Nicole Netland Mahtomedi

Thanks for help

Thanks to Sen. Heather Gustafson and her staffer Mr. Nick Roth for their immediate and effective help resolving issues I had with two state agencies in as many weeks.

without incurring duties, and much more. See mn.gov/deed and search “Minnesota Foreign Trade Zones.”

Tommy’s Express car wash to hold grand opening

Tommy’s Express car wash is now open and located at 4061 Highway 61 N. There will be a grand opening celebration Sept. 28 and throughout the weekend. There will be grilling, food, a DJ and giveaways. Tommy’s Express offers four different tiers of washes for any type of vehicle. It is not a touch less carwash and uses wraps designed to not scratch the vehicle. Tommy’s Express also offers free vacuums and mat washers for its members. With every single car wash, Tommy’s Express donates to the Water Mission which builds safe water, sanitation and hygiene solutions in developing nations as well as providing aid for local and global disaster areas.

Upcoming Games

September 19-24 vs. Toledo Mud Hens

Mark Herwig White Bear Lake

CONTRIBUTED

Tommy’s Express car wash is now open at 4061 Highway 61 N. in White Bear Lake.

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

The White Bear Police Department reports the following selected incidents:

A homeowner in the 1900 block of Oak Knoll Drive reported a burglary in his attached garage Sept. 7. Two sets of golf clubs and the remote garage door opener was stolen. No suspects.

A male in his twenties stole $13 worth of Tide laundry pods Sept. 7 in the block of Buerkle Road and left the store without paying. When the complainant tried to stop him, the suspect ran away. When officers arrived, the suspect was gone and the complainant was unable to identify him.

• A protection order violation was reported Sept. 7 in the 4700 block of Centerville Road.

• A theft occurred Sept. 8 in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road.

• An officer took a report of a stolen vehicle Sept. 9 in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue.

• A theft of two bicycles was reported Sept. 9 in the 3700 block of Little Linden Curve.

A $400 loss. No suspect information.

• Officers attempted a traffic stop for speed Sept. 10 in the block of Spruce Place and the vehicle fled at high speed. An officer located the vehicle which crashed nearby and the male driver was next to the vehicle. The driver, of Saint Paul, was found to be impaired by alcohol and was booked at the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center on a

felony fleeing charge and gross misdemeanor 2nd degree DWI charges.

• Officers located graffiti in the park bathrooms in the 1800 block of Florence Street Sept. 11. Estimated loss of $200.

• An officer took report of a harassment complaint near Highway 61 Sept. 11. The suspect was advised to cease communication and the victims to seek a restraining order. No formal charges at this time.

• Officers responded to a harassment restraining order violation Sept. 11 in the 4100 block of Hazel Street North. A White Bear Township man was arrested for gross misdemeanor harassment.

• Officers responded to a burglary Sept. 11 in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road.

• Officers responded to a hit and run accident Sept. 11 in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road.

• Officers assisted a resident Sept. 12 in the 4900 block of Birch Lake Circle with getting a cat out of a storm drain.

• Harassment was reported Sept. 12 in the 1800 block of Birch Street.

• Officers took a harassment report Sept. 12 in the 3600 block of White Bear Avenue.

• An Officer took a report of ongoing harassment Sept. 12 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue.

• An officer took a burglary report Sept. 12 in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road.

Noelle Olson

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Heights

A Little Canada woman reported the side window of her vehicle broken in Aug. 13 while it was parked in the lot of Berwood Park in the 700 block of Berwood Avenue. A purse and a drone were stolen during the breakin.

Spades Landscaping in the 3200 block of Fanum Road reported a trailer broken into Aug. 14 and $3,200 worth of power tools stolen. Photos of the male and female suspects were included in a crime alert.

• A resident in the 200 block of Mayfair Road reported internet theft by swindle Aug. 15, after her PayPal account was used to pay for an item on Facebook that she hadn’t authorized. The complainant learned that her Facebook account had been hacked, and she had not offered the item for sale.

• Shadowlawn Estates in the 1100 block of County Road D reported the gas tank of a vehicle drilled into Aug. 15 and a gas can placed underneath to catch the leaking gasoline.

• A storage business, iSTORAGE, in the 3200 block of Highway 61, reported the locking mechanisms of four storage units cut Aug. 15. It was unknown at the time of the report whether any items were missing. On Aug. 18, iSTORAGE reported further criminal damage to property, after a renter cut a lock.

• Two mailboxes in the 4400 block of

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Birchwood

• Birchwood Avenue residents reported damage to their property Aug. 17.

Dellwood

• Evergreen Road residents reported a tree down in the roadway at 12:04 p.m. Aug. 14, following morning rainstorms. Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies advised the Public Works Department.

• A motor vehicle was reported stolen Aug. 15 from an address on Doral Road. The vehicle was later recovered.

Grant

• A resident in the 6000 block of Jamaca Avenue N. at 8:38 p.m. Aug. 11 reported hearing a bullet whiz by their head and later found a bullet in their pool.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 3:38 a.m. Aug. 12 on Manning Avenue N. and Liberty Avenue N. and issued a citation for undisclosed violations.

• A suspicious vehicle with “for sale” signs in the windows reported parked off road in a wilderness preservation area near Manning Trail N. and Manning Avenue N. Aug. 13 turned out to belong to a person fishing nearby.

• A computer was reported stolen Aug. 14 from an unlocked vehicle parked in the 9000 block of 96th Street N.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop Aug. 15 in the 9000 block of 75th Street N. on a motorist speeding 73 mph in a 55 mph zone. They cited a different motorist later that evening for driving after revocation on Highway 36.

Mahtomedi

• A neighbor dispute was reported Aug. 11 on Locust Street. After arriving on scene, deputies advised all parties to obtain a harassment restraining order (HRO) and to be good neighbors.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 12:19 a.m. Aug. 13 on Century Avenue and Long

Greenhaven were reported damaged by fireworks Aug. 16.

• BR Construction LLC of Ladysmith, Wisconsin, reported a dump trailer stolen from the side of the road near Rice Street and Vadnais Blvd. on Aug. 16. The trailer had been left at roadside for 30 minutes due to a flat tire. When the complainant returned with the spare tire, the trailer was gone. The trailer’s identifying information has been entered into the National Crime Information Center database.

• A fake rock containing a house key was reported stolen Aug. 16 from the 4300 block of Greenhaven Circle.

• Nautical flares were reported found Aug. 17 in the 400 block of Oak Creek Circle and turned in for destruction. A River Falls, Wisconsin, woman reported the front driver’s side window of her vehicle broken in while it was parked Aug. 17 in the Sucker Lake Park north lot in the 4500 block of Rice Street. Her purse was stolen, and credit cards from inside it were used at three separate stores, including the Vadnais Heights Walmart. The cards were then frozen to prevent additional fraudulent purchases. Potential suspects have been identified, and the case is under investigation. A resident in the 600 block of Monn Avenue reported the passenger side window of his vehicle broken and the vehicle rummaged through while it was parked in the driveway overnight Aug. 17-18.

• An Eden Prairie man reported his identity stolen Aug. 18, which resulted in an unsuccessful attempt

Lake Road and cited the motorist for failure to display current registration.

• A suspicious, likely stolen vehicle, reported parked on Iris Street Aug. 15 with an even more suspicious male getting out of it and walking down the street turned out to be the homeowner from just down the street from the complainant. The complainant told deputies he no longer felt suspicious, and the neighbor down the street probably did, too.

Sparking and arcing power lines were reported Aug. 16 on Mahtomedi Avenue. On arrival at the scene, deputies didn’t notice any out-of-control electricity, but noted the lines looked damaged. Xcel Energy was summoned to the scene.

• A boat was reported stuck in the sand on the east side of White Bear Lake Aug. 16. After deputies confirmed that all occupants of the boat were OK, they advised the owner that he would have to arrange for his own tow and provided suggestions.

• Deputies cited a motorist Aug. 17 on East Avenue and Hickory Street for an object suspended from the rearview mirror and for window tint on the windshield. The standard for front side window tint is to allow least 50% of the light to get through, and no tint at all is allowed on windshields.

Pine Springs

• Deputies issued a written warning for inattentive driving Aug. 10 on Hilton Trail N. and 64th Street N., following a traffic stop for passing on the shoulder.

• A motorist was cited at 2:37 a.m. Aug. 11 on southbound I-694 at the eastbound ramp to Highway 36 for speeding 73 mph in a 55 mph zone.

• A driver of undisclosed identity was arrested for DWI and drug possession at 1:48 a.m. Aug. 12 at the roundabouts on 60th Street at Hilton Trail N., after deputies on patrol observed the vehicle driving the wrong way on both roundabouts. The driver also failed to stop for deputies’ lights and sirens and eventually drove his vehicle up the concrete median in the roundabout. As if driving behavior weren’t enough, the motorist also showed other signs of impairment.

to buy a car in the 3600 block of Talmage Circle. The victim was advised on recovery options.

White Bear Township

• A small baggie containing what looked like drugs was reported found Aug. 12 in the 5200 block of Bald Eagle Drive. The item was placed into the property evidence locker.

• A jogger reported finding a reusable shopping bag containing various personal items at 8:57 a.m. Aug. 13 in the 2600 block of County Road F. Deputies took custody of the bag and its contents and placed them into property.

• A resident in the 1200 block of

Hammond Road reported a nuisance woodchuck that had burrowed a hole under a shed Aug. 14. Deputies provided a short list of wildlife removal contractors, after the complainant eschewed the use of a live trap.

• Deputies attempted to pull over a motorcyclist driving recklessly on Highway 96 and Greenhaven Avenue at 5:27 a.m. Aug. 18. However, the motorcycle fled at high speed, and deputies elected not to pursue it into traffic.

Loretta Harding

White Bear Lake’s new Police Chief Dale Hager is sworn in by City Clerk Caley Longendyke.

Local cartoonist to hold book signing later this month

Bear Lake about 15 years ago and we have two kids (Ryan, 24, and Sophia, 15).

Q: What inspired you to become a cartoonist/illustrator?

A: I love to draw and I love books, so the idea of drawing books and drawing stories seemed like a natural fit. I love creating and telling stories and, growing up, the idea of drawing a comic strip or a comic book seemed like the best job in the world. It also seemed to be, well, possible. I loved cartoons but I didn’t have the technology or talent or patience to animate anything, but a comic just needed a pen, paper and imagination.

Q: Provide a brief overview of the book.

Q: Who are your favorite cartoonists/ illustrators?

A: My favorite cartoonists change pretty frequently, but the ones that keep making this list are Kate Beaton, Kevin Cannon and Charles Schulz. Kate has a deceptively simple style but captures facial expressions in a really clean way. Kevin’s cartoony and beautiful black and white linework is always inspiring. And, of course, I love comic strips, and Schulz’s characters and often poignant and hilarious “Peanuts” strips still make me laugh.

Q: Where can Press readers find the book?

Q: Do you have any plans for future works?

A: I did a graphic novel that is coming out later this year that I did with the city of Rochester. I am also about a third of the way through a massive graphic novel that takes place in a town very much inspired by White Bear Lake itself. It’s been fun working in local landmarks, such as the train station, into the story.

Q: Anything else you would like to add?

A: Drawing a book for a publisher was a dream of mine for 25 years. I wanted to give up on trying to make this.

Press Publications interviewed cartoonist Bob Lipski of White Bear Lake about his newest book, “The Shape of You,” written by Meggan Redfield and published by Beaver’s Pond Press.

There will be a reading of the book and a signing from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at Willowbrook Farm, 14508 St. Croix Trail N. in Marine on Saint Croix. To RSVP, email authormegganredfield@gmail.com.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself.

A: I am a cartoonist who has been making comics for over 20 years. My wife, Amy, and I moved to White

A: “The Shape of You” encourages kids to shed their doubts and embrace themselves just the way they are. In her book of sweet rhymes, charming characters and engaging illustrations by Bob Lipski, author Meggan Redfield hopes to inspire self-acceptance and compassion in readers of all shapes and sizes.

Q: What do you hope readers will gain from the book?

A: The message of the book is that there’s a place in the world for anyone, no matter who they are.

A: The book is available at DreamHaven Books in Minneapolis as well as Valley Bookseller in Stillwater. It’s also available on Amazon, but I am a big supporter of independent bookstores, and they should be able to order it if they don’t carry it.

Q: Is this your first book?

A: This is my first book for a publisher. I have self-published graphic novels for years, but this was my first experience doing a book for someone else. It was intimidating at first, but Meggan and the book’s editor were a lot of fun to work with.

White Bear Lake Area

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

“The Shape of You” book cover features illustrations from Bob Lipski.

Bob Lipski at work doing what he loves.

CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

REGARDING ADOPTION OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE

OCTOBER 10, 2023

NOTICE is hereby given that the City Council will be holding a public hearing at 6:45pm Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at the Birchwood Village Hall, 207 Birchwood Avenue, Birchwood Village, Minnesota to consider amending City Code 302.020 “Zoning Code: Requirements and Performance Standards”. A copy of the proposed language is available at City Hall.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023.

CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

ORDINANCE 2023-05-01

Please be advised that the City of Birchwood has duly-passed the following

ORDINANCE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 302.050

REGARDING IMPERVIOUS SURFACE VARIANCES FOR PROJECTS OF A CERTAIN SIZE/IMPACT

The following is a SUMMARY of the Ordinance:

On September 12, 2023 the City adopted an Ordinance (2023-05-01) to repeal and replace section 302.050 regarding impervious surfaces and a new standard to relieve the need for variances when impervious area is over 25 but less than 30% if certain requirements are met and maintained.

PLEASE BE ADVISED, this is not the full text of the Ordinance passed and the published material is only a summary. The full text is available for public inspection at the City of Birchwood, 207 Birchwood Avenue, Birchwood, Minnesota 55110 or delivered upon request electronically or by U.S. Mail.

Summary complies with Minn. Stat. §§ 331A.05 subd. 8. & 412.191 subd 4.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023.

CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

ORDINANCE 2023-05-02

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING 300.020 LAND USE IN THE CITY CODE

The City Council of the City of Birchwood Village hereby ordains that Section 300.020 LAND USE of the Municipal Code of the City of Birchwood Village is hereby modified as-follows:

23. Impervious Surface. A ground surface covered or compacted with material so as to substantially retard the entry of water into the soil, and to cause water to remain on the surface or to run off the surface in greater quantities or at an increased rate of flow than would occur if there was a natural soil surface.Impervious surfaces shall include improvements utilizing concrete, asphalt, gravel, or other non-porous materials. Examples of impervious surfaces include, but are not limited to, roads, driveways, parking areas, swimming

CITY OF MAHTOMEDI

pools, sidewalks, patios, rooftops, and covered decks. Examples of impervious surfaces resulting from compacting are unpaved or ungraveled driveways and parking areas.

EXCEPTIONS 1: Open decks and walkways with open joints at least ¼ inch wide per 8 inch wide board, and areas beneath overhangs less than 2 feet wide, if bare or vegetated soil is beneath the decks or walkways or overhangs, shall not be considered impervious surfaces.

EXCEPTION 2: Any surface approved by the City Engineer using applicable industry standards to be given credit as a “pervious surface” shall be calculated as the area of the surface, times the pervious fraction of the surface.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023.

CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

ORDINANCE 2023-05-03

The City Council of the City of Birchwood Village hereby ordains by the adoption of Ordinance 2023-05-03 on September 12, 2023 that the planning and zoning fees, escrows and deposits section of the fee schedule of the Municipal Code of the City of Birchwood Village, SECTION 12345 is hereby amended with the following fee schedule added:

Stormwater Management Maintenance Review Code 302.050(8) $100.00 09/2023

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023.

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

ORDINANCE NO. 23-09-2068

A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE TITLE AND SUMMARY APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 23-09-2068

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE TO PROHIBIT

THE USE OF CANNABIS PRODUCTS IN PUBLIC PLACES

WHEREAS, the City of White Bear Lake City Council may, pursuant to Ordinance No. 83-6-666, adopt a title and summary of a proposed ordinance to be published in lieu of lengthy entire ordinances, and WHEREAS, in addition to adopting a title and ordinance summary, the Council shall direct the City Clerk to:

1. Have available for inspection during regular office hours a copy of the entire ordinance.

2. Post a copy of the entire ordinance at the Public Library

3. Receive an affidavit of publication of the title and summary from the official newspaper.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of White Bear Lake City Council hereby adopts the aforementioned title and summary for approved Ordinance No. 23-09-2068 as listed below:

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF CANNABIS PRODUCTS IN PUBLIC PLACES

1. Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Mahtomedi, Minnesota, will hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, to consider, pass upon, adopt and levy the proposed special assessments for improvements as follows. At the hearing, the City Council may adopt the proposed assessments 2023 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

This project includes roadway rehabilitation and miscellaneous storm sewer and utility improvements to the following streets:

Juniper Street East Avenue East to end of cul-de-sac

AREA PROPOSED TO BE ASSESSED:

The area proposed to be specially assessed is generally described as properties abutting or with direct access to streets within the project area. Said area proposed to be assessed includes the property tax parcels listed below in the following proposed assessment roll:

The text amendment adds a section to Chapter 703, Miscellaneous Offenses, to prohibit the use of cannabis products in public places, including definitions, prohibition and enforcement.

FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of White Bear Lake City Council hereby directs the City Clerk to provide the inspection and publication requirements as listed above.

The foregoing resolution, offered by Councilmember Engstran and supported by Councilmember Hughes, was carried unanimously on September 12, 2023.

Dan Louismet, Mayor

ATTEST: Caley Longendyke, City Clerk

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023.

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE AND WHITE BEAR LAKE MAIN STREET INC.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING

2024 AND 2025 SPECIAL SERVICES DISTRICT LEVY

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of White Bear Lake, Minnesota will hold a public hearing in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 4701 Highway 61 on September 26, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. to re-establish the “Downtown Special Service District Service Charge Levy” (“Levy”) pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Sections 428A.01 to 428A.10, inclusive. The properties to be included in the Special Service District, and thus subject to the levy, are illustrated on the Downtown Service District map available for review at City Hall.

The general nature of the improvements and services to be provided within the district and paid for (in whole or in part) with Levy proceeds includes payment for general promotions including: beautification, recruitment and district-wide marketing and advertising. The proposed Levy is for two years with the total amount of all service charges proposed for calendar years 2024 and 2025 not to exceed $45,000 per year. The service charge for each affected property shall again be based on each property’s building square footage. The formula is based on the gross square footage of each business with the multiplier for the first floor of .09432 and all other non-resident floors at .01960. The proposed minimum for first floor properties is $135 and the proposed maximum for any property is $1,600.

A petition of affected property owners, as required by Minnesota Statutes, Section 428A.08, is in the possession of “Main Street, Inc.” representing downtown business establishments.

All interested parties will be given an opportunity to be heard at the hearing regarding the proposed service charge.

Signed: Lisa Beecroft, President, Main Street Board Kerri Kindsvater, Finance Director, City of White Bear Lake

Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 6 and September 20, 2023.

proposed to be assessed against the buildable tax parcels abutting or served by the improvements. The areas, parcels, lots and pieces or property, as specifically described herein, are subject to said assessments. The amounts set forth in this Notice are the proposed assessments. The City Council may levy and adopt special assessments that are the same or different than the proposed amounts.

PAYMENT OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS:

Once the special assessments are levied and adopted, the special assessments will be certified to the Washington County Auditor to be extended on the property tax lists for collection with real estate taxes. Prior to this certification, however, the property owner may prepay the entire amount of the assessments without any interest thereon provided the prepayment is received by November 2, 2023. If the property owner wishes to prepay the special assessments without any interest, then such payment must be made to the City of Mahtomedi at the Mahtomedi City Hall at 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, Minnesota, 55115. Partial pre-payment of the special assessment is not presently allowed under the City Ordinances; the prepayment, without interest, must be for the entire amount of the special assessments. If prepayment is not received by November 2nd, 2023, then:

a) The total principal amount of the special assessments will be divided into an equal number of annual installments. The proposed number of annual installments is ten (10), the number of annual installments will be decided by the City Council when the special assessments are levied.

b) The principal amount of the special assessments shall bear interest at the rate determined by the City Council when the special assessments are levied. The proposed interest rate is three and thirty-two-hundredths percent (3.32%).

c) Interest begins to accrue from and after October 3, 2023.

d) The annual principal installments, together with interest accrued on the unpaid balance, are due and payable together with real estate taxes.

e) Interest on the entire special assessments, from October 3, 2023, to December 31st of the year in which the first installment is payable, is added to the first principal installment. The first installment will be due and payable in 2024.

f) If in the future the property owner wishes to pay off the remaining balance of the assessments, then Minnesota Statutes, § 429.061, Subd. 3, provides that such payment be made to the City Treasurer (in Mahtomedi, the City Treasurer is the City Administrator), together with interest accrued to December 31st of the year in which payment is made as long as payment is made prior to November 15th, if the payoff occurs after November 15th, then interest for the next year is also added. If the adopted special assessments differ from the proposed assessments as to any particular lot, piece or parcel of land, then the City will mail to the owner a notice stating the amount of the adopted assessments. Owners will also be notified, by mail, if the City Council adopts any changes in the interest rate or prepayment requirements from those contained in this NOTICE OF HEARING.

MAIL: On or about September 20, 2023

Jerene Rogers, City Clerk

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023.

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

ORDINANCE NO. 23-09-2069

ORDINANCE NO. 23-09-2069

The project costs for 2023 Street Improvement Project were $493,200. The total amount of the proposed assessments is approximately 21.25% thereof, namely, the sum of $104,780. The proposed assessments of $104,780 are proposed to be levied on the buildable tax parcels either abutting or served by the improvements. Each buildable tax parcel abutting or served by the improvements is proposed to be assessed an amount as calculated pursuant to the City’s assessment policy, as established pursuant to the City’s fee schedule, and/or pursuant to a municipal improvement benefit study performed by a professional appraisal consultant engaged by the City

ASSESSMENT ROLL AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION:

The proposed Assessment Roll is now on file with the City Clerk and is open for public inspection at City Hall located at 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, Minnesota. The proposed Assessment Roll is being mailed to all the above identified record owners of the parcels proposed to be assessed. The proposed Assessment Roll will also be available for examination at the hearing.

OBJECTIONS AND APPEALS:

Written and oral objections will be considered at the hearing. Minnesota Statutes § 429.061 states that no appeal may be taken as to the amount of the assessment unless a written objection, signed by the affected property owner, is filed with the municipal clerk prior to the assessment hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. An owner may appeal an assessment to the District Court pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, § 429.081, by serving notice of appeal upon the Mayor or the City Clerk of the City within thirty (30) days after the adoption of the assessment and filing such notice with the District Court within ten (10) days after service upon the Mayor or the City Clerk.

SENIOR CITIZENS DEFERMENT:

Under Minnesota Statutes, § 435.193 to § 435.195, the Mahtomedi City Council may, in its discretion, defer the payment of these special assessments for any homestead property owned by a person 65 years of age or older for whom it would be a hardship to make the payments. When deferment of the special assessments has been granted and is terminated for any reason provided by law, all amounts accumulated, plus applicable interest, become due. Any assessed property owner meeting the requirements of this law may apply to the City Clerk on the prescribed form for such deferral or payments of these special assessments. If you qualify and wish a deferment, contact the City Clerk.

AUTHORITY TO SPECIALLY ASSESS:

The proposed assessments are to be levied pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429. The improvements are

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 2023 FEE SCHEDULE OF THE WHITE BEAR LAKE CITY CODE TO ADD FEES RELATING TO EDIBLE CANNABINOID PRODUCTS

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 2023 FEE SCHEDULE OF THE WHITE BEAR LAKE CITY CODE TO ADD FEES RELATING TO EDIBLE CANNABINOID PRODUCTS

THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE DOES ORDAIN:

ARTICLE I Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to incorporate associated fees related to edible cannabinoid products into the 2023 Fee Schedule.

THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE DOES ORDAIN: ARTICLE I Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to incorporate associated fees related to edible cannabinoid products into the 2023 Fee Schedule.

ARTICLE II Amended Fee Schedule. The 2023 Fee Schedule is hereby amended by adding the following, as shown in double underline:

ARTICLE II Amended Fee Schedule. The 2023 Fee Schedule is hereby amended by adding the following, as shown in double underline:

Article III Not Codified. This ordinance is transitory in nature and shall not be codified. The added fees established hereby shall be incorporated into the 2023 Fee Schedule, located on the City’s website and available for inspection at the City Hall during usual office hours.

and available for inspection at the City Hall during usual office hours.

ARTICLE IV Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its passage, after second reading and publication.

ARTICLE V General Provisions.

ARTICLE IV Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its passage, after second reading and publication.

ARTICLE V General Provisions.

(a) Applications for the retail sale of edible cannabinoid products submitted prior to the passing of this ordinance shall be subject to such fees before the license is issued.

Applications for the retail sale of edible cannabinoid products submitted prior to the passing of this ordinance shall be subject to such fees before the license is issued.

City staff is authorized to incorporate the amendments approved herein into 2023 Fee Schedule of the City of White Bear Lake and to take such other actions as may be necessary to put the added fees into effect.

Passed by the City Council of White Bear Lake on September 12, 2023.

Dan Louismet, Mayor ATTEST: Caley Longendyke, City Clerk

(b) City staff is authorized to incorporate the amendments approved herein into 2023 Fee Schedule of the City of White Bear Lake and to take such other actions as may be necessary to put the added fees into effect. Passed by the City Council of White Bear Lake on September 12, 2023.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023

Dan Louismet, Mayor ATTEST: Caley Longendyke, City Clerk Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 20, 2023

Upcoming events

Getting Unstuck: Bringing Joy and Vitality Back to Your Art Practice

Tuesdays, October 3-24, 12:30-2:00 PM

Augmented Reality Exhibit Celebrates Dakota Culture

If you’ve stopped by White Bear Center for the Arts’ OSilas Labyrinth lately, you may have noticed a new sign. It marks the labyrinth as a spot where you can experience an augmented reality exhibit. And if you scan a QR code, you’ll see a digitally-rendered tipi, “Bear’s Lodge,” appear to ll the space. e audio coming from your phone welcomes you in, and gives you a brief introduction to Mahto the bear, who is the teacher of medicine in Dakota culture.

St. Paul, Minnesota. You may recognize her artwork from WBCA’s fall catalog covers, and many art organizations around Minnesota including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Museum of Russian Art, Red Cloud Heritage Center and the Minnesota Museum of American Art.

If you’re feeling stuck in your creative energy because you’re feeling overwhelmed by un nished works, this class will help to tackle that blockage. ink of it as an open studio with additional support and accountability.

Criticism as Dialogue

Tuesday, September 26, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

is one-day workshop will give WBCA members an opportunity to have an open dialogue with fellow artists on how to engage in constructive criticism and handle complexity.

The Laramie Project

October 5 & 6 at 7:00 PM; October 7 at 2 p.m.

Northern Starz Center for the Performing Arts is proud to bring e Laramie Project to White Bear Center for the Arts. is

e tipi and the artwork appear to be part of the very landscape itself. Marlena Myles (Spirit Lake Dakota/ Mohegan/Muscogee), the artist behind the Augmented Reality Experience, is a selftaught digital artist located in

Marlena’s Augmented Reality Experience can be found at various points around WBCA’s outdoor campus. e exhibit asks visitors to consider the natural world around them, and o ers a chance to connect to Dakota culture in a new and innovative way. All are welcome to experience this augmented reality for themselves; the exhibit is free, and “open” during WBCA’s business hours.

WBCA Welcomes a New Leader

White Bear Center for the Arts recently welcomed Chris Scholl as its new executive director, starting a new chapter in the art center’s 55year history. Scholl, a devoted arts administrator, began his career in an art studio. He spent years working as an artist, constructing sets and working in theaters, and eventually achieved an MFA in Scenic Design from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. A er moving into administration, he received an MBA from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. He has spent his career helping arts institutions, like the Jungle eater and Ashland Productions, grow their impact upon their stakeholders and communities.

Scholl was drawn to White Bear Center for the Arts as a nancially strong institution

with a long history and a deep reservoir a ection among its students, volunteers, and donors. “ e chance to be a part of a vibrant art center that commits to teaching a wide variety of mediums for all abilities, and honors the talents of professional artists and community members through beautiful gallery exhibitions, is a unique opportunity,” Scholl said. “I’m excited to explore the many ways that White Bear Center for the Arts can continue to build our artsloving community in this area and beyond.”

is fall, Scholl is looking forward to the abundance and

variety of programs o ered at the art center. “One of the things that drew me to WBCA is our embrace of the entirety of the arts,” he said. “Simply paging through the fall catalog makes that clear, with classes o ered in clay, ber, drawing, painting, writing, wellness and more.” Scholl also mentioned the National Endowment for the Arts’ Big Read program as another focal point of this fall season. “ at partnership has allowed us the means to draw our community together to investigate the words and intentions within Ross Gay’s gorgeous book of poetry, Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude.” ere’s a lot for community members, and for Scholl, to dive into at the start of this new chapter. As Scholl said, “Poetry, digital art, studio art: that’s only what you’ll nd here today. Art is exploration, and we have galaxies of worlds to explore together.”

White Bear Center for the Arts

White Bear Center for the Arts Chris Scholl

Above: Raegan and Katie Schilla pull out in front of an estimated group of more than 300 participants in the recent Gloria’s Annual White Bear Lake Shortest Marathon One Block Run benefit for the White Bear Area Food Shelf.

At right: Mueller representative Taelor Johnson hands out some of the White Castle hamburgers that are one of the unusual features of the benefit event.

Above: Participants line up for a post race reward of donuts and coffee and Abby and Corinne, at left, enjoy a couple of burgers prior to the run.

Find more information at whitebearfoodshelf.org. about volunteer opportunities and most wanted food shelf items. Upcoming events include free produce markets at Community of Grace on Sept. 21 and the White Bear Senior Center on Sept. 28.

Bakery fans by the dozens show up to meeting

BY BROOKE WOHLRABE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP — Two dozen residents voiced support of an applicant and his business as the board considered an amendment to ordinance No. 35 that would permit a walk-in freezer for special home occupations.

Evan Monson, interim township planner, said that the request would require that the township amend some requirements of the zoning ordinance — in particular, special home occupations.

“The applicant is looking to allow either a walk-in fridge or freezer … residential areas are allowed home occupation, basically any home-based business, with conditions,” Monson said.

He said there are just three active permits for special home occupations and that the applicant is one of them, and he wasn’t sure if the other two were active.

Monson added that the applicant does already have a walk-in freezer on site and would like to see the ordinance amended so that it can stay onsite. He said that the Planning Commission reviewed it, discussed it at length and recommended approval.

Board Member Scott McCune asked if the freezer on site is operational. Monson said they had applied for permits but he didn’t know if it was operational. Board Member Steve Ruzek said that at the Planning Commission meeting, a concern regarding requirements of the Minnesota Department of Health was brought up, but they were ensured by the applicant that requirements were being met.

“It’s becoming more popular. Homebased businesses are what a lot of people are trying to do,” Ruzek said.

Board Chair Ed Prudhon said he was concerned about amending the ordinance for a walk-in freezer because it could open the door to other requests like a kiln, paint booth or greenhouse.

“When it starts leaving the premises and garage, where do we draw the line?” Prudhon asked.

Township Attorney Chad Lemmons agreed that approving the amendment does open up the board to hearing other requests.

The board opened up the meeting to public comment, at which point the applicant, Ben Neumann, known to many locally as ‘Ben the Baker,’ spoke up and asked the board whether it questioned whether he was in compliance with the current intent of the code.

Prudhon said that with a special home occupation the business is secondary to the home, and that in

this instance, the business is nearly taking over the home.

“The problem is it’s a business now, and it’s sitting in a residential area. That’s why we struggle with this,” Prudhon said.

He further added that the issue is arising now with the addition of the walk-in freezer. Ruzek said that if the freezer was in the attached garage, which serves as a kitchen, there wouldn’t be an issue.

Neumann shared some of his story and why the amendment will benefit his bakery business and his family.

“If I were to build a storage shed for the bakery, even with the exact same size, shape and placement to where this is right now, if it were to be air conditioned to 70 degrees for room temperature pie storage, that would be allowed as an accessory structure,” Neumann said. “I hope you would agree that having a structure the exact same size, structure and placement that is cooled to -10 degrees for storage, instead of 70 degrees for storage, would follow the current intent of the code, and we’re just fixing a glitch that’s blocking me right now.”

everyone who got up and shared their thoughts.

“All of your input is important to us. It’s what makes our decisions easier. It’s not that you’re swaying it, but we get a sense of, sometimes we look over things, but we do have to follow a law,” he said.

The public hearing was closed about an hour after comments were made and the board again discussed the amendment. McCune asked Monson if a shed was in place of the freezer, whether there would be a problem.

“The issue is, a walk-in freezer is typically beyond the boundary of what is typically at a residence,” Monson said.

McCune then asked Neumann if the intent was to remain a home-based

business, rather than a business with a house attached to it.

“My concern is that it will become a business first,” McCune said.

Neumann said it was hard to know what to aim for when he didn’t know what the line was regarding what was allowed. He stressed that he’s following all rules currently in the ordinance.

Finally, Lemmons said, “It’s not a question of ‘do we like Ben’, it’s ‘can Ben’s business operate in a manner that’s compatible with his neighbors’? That’s the issue. That’s the concern.”

In the end, the board unanimously approved amending the ordinance to permit a walk-in freezer for a special home occupation. Those present at the meeting erupted in applause.

McCune said he thought Neumann was being both respectful and thoughtful but agreed with what Prudhon said about transitioning from home-based to full-time is what raised concerns.

The board and Neumann held some more discussion about the business and the request before some other residents asked questions. One inquired about the projected growth of the business, which Prudhon said was all speculation.

Another resident offered support of the business and said it was a “plus” to the community. Several other residents praised Neumann and his business. So many residents wanted to voice support that a line was formed behind the lectern so that everyone could share their thoughts.

Several of the residents who provided comments were from out of White Bear Township but said they have visited the community specifically to visit the bakery.

Following all of the public comments, Prudhon thanked

“The problem is it’s a business now, and it’s sitting in a residential area. That’s why we struggle with this.”

Ed Prudhon

White Bear Township Board Chair

Gold Sponsors

• RAO Manufacturing

• Mains’l

Silver Sponsors

• The ReCyclery

• Peggy & Dick Palen

• Commercial Plumbing and Heating

• Joy Erickson, Edina Realty

• Hallberg Engineering

• The Carlson Clinic

• Comcast

• API Group Inc

• White Bear Mitsubishi

• Liberty Classical Academy

• Saputo

• Royal Credit Union

Bronze Sponsors

• Century College

• White Bear Eye Clinic & Optical

• High Traffic Flooring Solutions

• White Bear Boat Works

• Cerenity Senior Care

THANK YOU SPONSORS

• New Studio Architecture

• Craig & Betty McNulty

• Western Spring Mfg.

• Frandsen Bank & Trust

• Waypoint Inc.

• Boyum Barenscheer

• Goldenwood Kennels

• TSE Inc

• Great Lakes Academy

• White Bear Rental

• Altstatt Consulting

• American Legion Post 507

Rotary Sponsors

• Balzer Painting

• Greg & Sandy Bartz

• Bryan & Lael Belisle

• Craig & Gloria Drake

• Jim Hunt & Deb Lauer

• The Inn on Madeline Island

• Mike and Sylvia Lovett

• Ramsey and Associates, Ltd

• Bob & Vivian Timmons

• Best Western Plus White Bear Country Inn

• Kevin & Molly Donovan

• Keller Williams Premier RealtyConnie Bossard

• Lakeshore Players Theatre

• Rod & Nancy Oakes

• Darrell & Kathy Stone

• Hammer & NER

• Carol Nelson & Keith Henry

• Premier Bank

• John Channon Focal Point Coaching

• Control House LTD

• Solberg Benefits, LLC

• Fred & Stella Treiber

• Pat & Carol McFarlane

• White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce

• Rick & Cathy Storey

In-Kind Sponsors

• Pine Tree Apple Orchard

• White Bear Press

CONTRIBUTED

White Bear Lake Area Schools North and South Campus wrestlers and brothers Galvin and Dov Nathanson recently competed in the World Deaf Wrestling Championship in Kyrgyzstan. Dov won gold for Freestyle (the first USA Gold since 2001) and Galvin won two silver medals in his division. Their contribution helped Team USA win Bronze for the Team category.

White Bear Lake Area Schools construction update

The Price Field construction project will be complete soon. The original grass field was taken out and the new turf field was installed running north-south, parallel with Bald Eagle Avenue. Turning the field created enough space to add an eight-lane running track around the field, something that had not been possible with the original field.

The turf field surface, which has been installed in recent weeks, will allow for multiple activities and teams to use the playing surface. The design, with the distinctive WBLAHS Bear Paw at center field, mirrors the field at the new WBLAHS Stadium. The bleachers installed on the east side of the field will serve both home and away spectators.

The track surfacing will be finished in the coming days. After that process is complete, the track lanes will be striped. The press box and scoreboard are scheduled to arrive in late September, and it is anticipated that the track and field will be open and available for play in early October.

White Bear Lake Area Schools

When to expect fall colors and where to enjoy them

Fall colors in Minnesota typically peak in mid-tolate-September through mid-October, starting in the northernmost part of the state and working southward. Peak fall color usually lasts two weeks but can vary widely depending on location and weather. Many factors play into the timing and brilliance of the fall color season in Minnesota, such as day length, temperatures and rainfall.

Minnesota is in its third summer with drought conditions in at least part of the state. Though severe summer drought may lessen the intensity of fall colors, there has been no correlation to the timing of peak fall colors and drought.

The Minnesota DNR’s Fall Color Finder (mndnr.gov/ fallcolors) is a way for the public to follow the annual progression of fall color change throughout the state. Minnesota DNR staff throughout the state share reports from their location each Wednesday, in time for people to make travel plans for the coming weekend. The webpage includes a color-coded map that shows the approximate percentage of leaves that have changed color across the state, and a slideshow of recent photos taken by staff and visitors. The public is also welcome to submit their photos from visits to state parks, forests and trails.

Minnesota DNR

CHURCH BRIEFS

Evening of praise and worship at St. Mary’s

Join parishoners at St. Mary of the Lake Church for an evening of praise and worship music on Friday, Sept. 29. The concert will feature St. Mary’s own musicians, Jaclyn Schwartz, Ernest Bisong, Greg Byers, Julia Ennen, Dylan Sauder, Rebecca Kaup and Carley O’Bryan, who will perform a mix of songs, including singalong favorites.

The event will include the concert from 7 to 8 p.m., followed by wine and appetizers. Freewill donations are appreciated.

St. Mary of the Lake is located at 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake. For more information, visit stmarys-wbl.org

Pat Miles speaks on “Before All Is Said and Done”

Former news anchor and journalist Pat Miles will speak on her book, “Before All Is Said and Done,” during a program at at St. Stephen Lutheran Church at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24. Miles will share advice and stories about the critical importance of discussing death and dying while loved ones are still living. A book signing and refreshments will follow her talk.

The program is free and open to the community. St. Stephen is located at 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake. For more information, contact 651-777-1107 or StStephenWBL.org.

Weekly Outlook

Weather Tidbits

It has been abysmally dry. Our last meaningful rain event was back on August 14 when we totaled 1.51 inches. Since then we’ve experienced a handful of rain events totaling 0.42 inch. The culprit for this is our upper winds, the jet stream. The highway for storms. You may have also noted it really hasn’t been that humid. The jet stream has been flowing west to east, a zonal flow. We totaled 80% of our moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. That flow has been cut off and consequently the moisture has been cut off. September 2022 the pattern was similar and we totaled 0.68” of rain. It wasn’t until November when the moisture pattern picked up. We all remember our top 5 snow season from last year.

Press Publications suggests that you be aware of advertisers requesting payment for shipping merchandise. Confirm and verify all contact resources prior to sending any money. Take caution when responding to text messages that are not

Three 100 lb L.P. Tanks, 3@$150 or $60 ea. 651-621-9559

Tow behind ice fishing house, Older King Crow, Brands, Lots of extras needs some TLC, a sking $480 0. 651-621-9559

SIGNS: Beer and liquor The more the better. We can't pa y reta il but will pay a fair price and we pay cash. Contact Don 651-334-9118

HOLIDAY DECOR

9/28-29 9-5PM 6979

Lakes Clearwater Creek Neighborhood Sales Sep 21-22 - 8am-4pm & Sep 23 - 8am-3pm Entrance for sales at Ott er Lk Rd & Tart Lk Rd

Sep 21-22, 9-5p

HH, Clothes, Holiday Kids & Misc 4890 Stewart Ave, WBL

Now

Administrative Assistant

Part Time, Mon. & Tues., 7:55am-4:00pm

Press Publications publishes 6 community newspapers, magazines and coupon books, serving White Bear Lake and surrounding communities. Our publications brings news of school events, government, business, politics, and social events to local residents.

Desired Skills & Experience:

High school diploma required.

Ability to interact well with a broad base of internal and external clients, both in person, telephone and written communication. Reliable, responsible, and dependable in fulfilling obligations.Strong attention to detail and the ability to organize, prioritize, and multi task effectively. User of Microsoft Office suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as Microsoft Office.

NOW HIRING

Morning Day Shift Leadership positions available for flexible candidates.

651-653-9845

4687 Bald Eagle Ave., WBL 55110

NOW HIRING! ENTRY LEVEL GRAPHIC DESIGNER

JOB DESCRIPTION:

2011 Toyota, Sien na

XLE loaded; low miles est. 112k rear DVD player all accessories, great condition garage kept, spent winters in Florida. Serviced by Maplewood Toyota all records available.

$14,995 six one two

599-1729

Dry Oak, Maple, and Birch Cut & Split Firewood $75 fo r a p/u load or trailer load 65 1-426-1249

OUTSIDE STORAGE!

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

One stop shopping Offers an array of different contra ctors from yard work handy man re pa irs, junk removal, carpenter painter electrician,etc. Ryan, 651-303-8053

Toro Power Broom

Used for clearing sidewalks, ice rink & driveway. Toro profession al series $2,950

61 2-599-172 nine

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discriminat ion.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal cu stod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real esta te which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal opportunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75

RV's, Boats, Toys, Pontoons, Trailers Up to 50' deep spaces www.T35storage.com

Press Publications is looking for an entry level, motivated graphic designer for a part-time position with the possiblity of full-time. As part of the production-design team, you'll have a vital role in making sure the weekly and biweekly papers get out the door.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Comfortable in Adobe InDesign Mac based and cloud, with the minor use of Photoshop and Illustrator

- Build ads to customer specs, and assist the sales team with new ads for potential clients

- Follow a strict schedule with overlapping deadlines

-Work with editors to produce a vibrant product.

JOB DETAILS:

- 12-25 hours per week

- M-F 7:55 - 5:30 varies by season Email resume to: artmanager@presspubs.com

Patrick “Pat” Dow

Age 56, passed away of natural causes on August 21, 2023. Patrick was born on December 8, 1966, to John and Edith Dow. He grew up in White Bear Lake with his two brothers and sister. The Dow family attended The Church of St. Pius, where Pat received the sacraments and began his close relationship with God. Pat was an excellent cook and worked at a restaurant for many years.

Though as an adult Pat struggled with alcohol addiction, his faith gave him hope and the courage to help others. He served as a sponsor for others in his AA group and became very active in his church, Servants of the Shepard. Ministry was important to Pat and he enjoyed sharing God with other people. Pat was preceded in death by his mother, Edith Dow. He is survived by his father, John Dow; siblings, John (Ada) Dow of Lake Elmo, Minnesota, Susan (Rob) Skaar of Dakota Dunes, South Dakota, and Christopher (Shelly) Dow of Cave Creek, Arizona; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. A Celebration of Pat’s Life will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Mueller Memorial - White Bear Lake Chapel, from 12 - 2 p.m., with a service at 2:00 p.m. Pat will be laid to rest next to his mother at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Servants of the Shepard Church. www.MuellerMemorial.com

JoAnn M. Roberts

Age 89 of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023. Preceded in death by husband, Jack. Survived by children, Pat Jackson, Maureen (Jim) Roberts, Terry (Terry) Ferrozzo, Jim Roberts, Peggy (Guy) Meeker; grandchildren, Kellee Struck, Brady Jackson, Devin (Krystal) Benson-Roberts, Ryan Jackson, John (Caity) Hew Len, Molly Meeker, Dalton Meeker, Wyatt Meeker; great-grandchildren, Isaiah Struck, Teofilio Struck, Lilianna Hew Len, Jackson Hew Len, Abigail Benson-Roberts, Alice Benson-

Roberts; brother-in-law, Mick (Sandra) Roberts; nieces, nephews and friends. A celebration of JoAnn’s life 7 PM Tuesday, September 26th with visitation beginning at 6 PM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. Private interment, St. Mary’s cemetery, White Bear Lake. Memorials preferred to donor’s choice.

RobertsFamilyFH.com 651-464-4422.

Mavis Carrol Peterson

86, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota, passed away on September 12, 2023. Mavis is survived by her children Sandy (Kyle) Anderson, Scott (Kara) Peterson, Jennifer (Dave) Heifort, and many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Allen Peterson, her parents and brother. Mavis also leaves behind her sister, Loretta Eick. Mavis will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her kindness, generosity, and loving spirit will forever be remembered.

A visitation will be held on September 23, 2023, at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 11:30 a.m. at the Community of Grace Lutheran Church in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. The service will be followed by a luncheon.

Dennis John LaValle

MARCH 8, 1957

TO MAY 26, 2023

A Gathering and Remembrance to honor Dennis John LaValle will be held on Sunday, September 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Peder Pedersen Pavilion at Lions Volunteer Park, 5524 Upper 146th St N, Hugo, MN 55038. His family will take great comfort in connecting with those who knew and loved him. Memorials preferred to American Cancer Society/ Bladder Cancer Research.

Early voting begins

Early voting in the state of Minnesota will begin for the Nov. 7 general election on Friday, Sept. 17. You can vote early by visiting your local City Hall, or via mail. To vote by mail:

• Go to www.mnvotes.org

• Click on “other ways to vote.”

• Click on “vote early by mail.” Fill out the application for an absentee ballot.

• Once you cast a ballot by mail, you can track the ballot and confirm that it was received and counted.

City issues cease-anddesist letters

The city of White Bear Lake sent two ceaseand-desist letters to two jet ski/water craft rental companies — Twin City Lago and Go Get It Rentals. White Bear Lake City Manager Lindy Crawford said it is a violation of city code to operate a business on public property without proper permission and associated permits. In response to the letters, both businesses said they are done operating for the season and will consider getting permits for next year.

The best way to get insight The best way to get into your local community: into your local www.presspubs.com

FALL FEST

When: Sept. 21-23

Where: Downtown White Bear Lake

Details: Celebrate the harvest season with a ladies night out event, Scarecrow Stroll, live music, polka & pumpkins in the park from 1-4 Saturday, and restaurant and store specials. Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com

FREE PRODUCE MARKET

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Sept. 21

Where: Community of Grace Church, 4000 Linden St., White Bear Lake

Details: All are welcome to pick up free produce. Bring your own bag. Contact: 651-407-5310 or whitebearfoodshelf.org

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Class of ’54 reunion

White Bear Lake High School Class of 1954 will have a reunion luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 28, at 11:30 a.m. at the White Bear Country Inn.

Be aware of lane closures on I-35

Beginning Sunday, Sept. 17, southbound I-35 will be reduced to a single lane between Highway 95 in North Branch and and Highway 8 in Forest Lake from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily for maintenance work. Crews may also work on Saturdays as needed. The lane closures are expected to end by mid-October.

Community Foundation announces Community Partners Grant

The Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation (GWBLCF) is announcing its seventh year of Community Partners Grants. GWBLCF’s goal is to raise $100,000 this year to support nonprofit organizations and projects that directly serve our communities.  In the last five years, GWBLCF, through the Community Partners grant, has awarded $209,000 to more than 60 organizations.

Local non-profit organizations can apply for a grant up to $7,500.

Grants help local nonprofits remain

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 22

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake

Details: Sarah Nelson will sign copies of her children’s book on bird migration, “Follow the Flyway.”

Contact: 651-426-0918

viable and support their efforts to enrich the lives of people who live in the communities that share the shores of White Bear Lake, including Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, White Bear Lake, White Bear Township, and Willernie.

Every dollar contributed to the Fund goes directly to organizations that serve the community and will be granted this year. Visit gwblcf.org/ donate or email us at info@gwblcf.org for more information.

The grant application window is Sept. 5- 30, 2023. Applications are on the website and grants will be awarded Thursday, Nov. 30 at the GWBLCF’s annual “Share the Joy” celebration.

Square dancing classes offered

Learn the basics of square dancing with Ar-Dale Dancers. Two introductory sessions will be offered on September 26 and October 3, followed by six lessons on Tuesday nights from 6:30 to 8 p.m. beginning Oct. 10. All sessions will be held at St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, 2150 First Street, White Bear Lake. All ages welcome — individuals, couples, and families. Partners will be provided as available and casual attire is encouraged. Call 651-208-5807 or visit comesquaredance.com with questions.

FALL FLEA MARKET

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30

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

Details: Over 20+ vendors on the parking lot and more inside. Baked good and food truck. Come as a shopper or register to be a vendor.

Contact: 651-653-3121

KIDZ N BIZ

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 30

Where: Oneka Elementary, 4888 Heritage Pkwy. N., Hugo Details: Free community event connects local businesses and families and includes carnival-like activities, inflatables, face painting, demonstrations, prizes, food and vendors.

Contact: mms.hugobusinesses.biz

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1

Where: Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Grant

Details: Hike the horse trail that parallels the Gateway Trail out and back. Treats follow at Wildwood Tavern. Contact: stpaulhike.com

LOOKING AHEAD

SENIOR CENTER OPEN HOUSE

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Oct. 6

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

Details: Learn about weekly activities, Meals on Wheels, travel opportunities, screenings and foot care clinic. Visit with vendors and shop at the Craft Corner. Free.

SHAPESHIFT DANCE COLLECTIVE

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

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

Details: An inspiring story through the captivating medium of theatrical dance combining hip-hop/ contemporary movement and other dance styles, fused with old school music. See ticket information online.

Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

PAT DONAHUE AND THE PRAIRIE ALL STARS

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.

Details: Guitarist for the “Guys AllStar Shoe Band” of Minnesota Public Radio’s A Prairie Home Companion for 20 years plays blues, folk, rockabilly and more. Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

UNITED STATES MARINE BAND

When: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 9

Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi

Details: “The President’s Own” band has toured since 1891. Free.

Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

Ex-Zephyr set for Olympics with South Sudan

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Nuni Omot, the former Mahtomedi basketball star who was born in a refugee camp in Kenya, is headed for the 2024 Olympic Games as member of the South Sudan national team.

South Sudan became a surprise qualifier for the Olympics by winning three of five games in the

World Cup held in August in The Philippines.

Interviewed on Eurohoops TV, Omot marveled that South Sudan has qualified despite being an independent country since only 2011 and doesn’t even have an indoor court.

“No one imagined this,” said Omot, 28, who was obviously excited. “Now we have a chance to walk across the Olympic stage with our flag. It’s one of the best sports stories to come out in a long time.

I’m so blessed to be a part of it.”

Omot is 6-foot-9 with a seven-foot wingspan and shoots three-pointers very well. At the World Cup, he contributed 72 points and 14 rebounds in five games as South Sudan beat Angola, beat The Philippines, lost to Serbia, beat China, and lost to Puerto Rico. They did not medal or advance to the second round, but won enough games to qualify for the Olympics in Paris.

Omot’s life began in precarious circumstances. His parents and older brother fled Ethiopia, engulfed in a civil war, and trekked 400 miles to Kenya mostly on foot to reach a refugee camp where disease was rampant and food was scarce. That’s where he was born in 1994. They survived, and Nuni and his mother and brother were able to emigrate to the U.S. His mother still lives in the area.

At Mahtomedi, Omot averaged 18 points and six rebounds as a senior on a 21-8 team. After

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

two seasons at Indian Hills Community College, he landed in Division I with Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where as a senior he averaged 9.9 points and 3.6 rebounds, shooting 43 percent on three’s. He was not drafted by the NBA but had brief pro stints in the NBA’s Summer League and the NBA’s G League as a free agent before returning to Africa to continue his basketball career.

“I couldn’t be happier for Nuni’s success as a player and in life,” said Mahtomedi basketball head coach Keith Newman. “He has achieved this level with an unbelievable work ethic and has been humble during the process. He is a fantastic player and an even better person.” Newman has kept in touch with Omot and followed his career.

“Last season, he stopped by practice toward the beginning of the season when he was in town and gave the guys some wisdom from his travels in basketball and how to play the game as a team,” said Newman. “The guys loved hearing from him.”

Missing two of their top four regulars, the Bears placed sixth of 18 teams in Lakeville North’s Apple Jack Invitational, won by Edina. Vaughn Larson placed 11th (16:47), Isaac Kolstad 20th (17:15), Ryley Murphy 34th (17:37), Graham Newlander 48th (17:54), and Cooper Hoel 61st (18:20) of 141 runners. Osseo’s Cade Sanvik won in 15:49. Bears’ No. 1 Luke Williams and No. 4 Max Popp missed with illness. Coach Dan Kovacich speculated that the Bears would have placed second at full strength. “We have yet to run with all our top runners together,” he said.

GIRLS

CROSS COUNTRY

White Bear Lake placed seventh of 12 teams in Lakeville North’s Apple Jack Invitational, won by Prior Lake. For the Bears, Rosie Sommers placed 23rd (20:50), Clara Kolstad 27th (20:59), Annika Schroeder 42nd (21:26), Logan Bailey 47th (21:45), and Ella Hopkins 50th (21:59). Individual winner was Claire Vukovics of Lakeville South in 19:13.

BOYS SOCCER

White Bear Lake has tied all three conference opponents so far, including 1-1 deadlocks against Mounds View (51-1) and Roseville Area (3-2-2). Gianni Pescosolido scored against Roseville. The Bears led until the 65th minute when Satyam Tamang got the Raiders on the board. The Bears, with Kyle Christensen in goal, also tied Irondale and Eagan, each 1-1. They have no wins, two losses and four ties overall.

VOLLEYBALL

East Ridge handed White Bear Lake a 26-24, 25-12, 25-16 loss in the conference opener, their lone match of the week. The Bears are 4-2 and East Ridge 7-2.

SWIMMING

White Bear Lake lost to conference rival East Ridge 97-80 . The Bears (1-2) had four wins: Lucy Borofka in backstroke (1:07.09) and 100 freestyle (56.13); Lily Jenkins in 50 freestyle (27.04); and the medley relay (2:00.19) with Borofka, Ella Maas, Charlotte McIntyre and Jenkins.

RON ENGH Vaughn Larson led the Bears in the Lakeville meet.

CONTRIBUTED Nuni Omot

Bears start strong at Woodbury but fall 38-16

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake generated some firepower Friday night, enough to take a 16-7 lead in the third quarter at Woodbury. However, the Royals dominated the last quarter and a half to win 38-16, dropping the Bears to 0-3.

The Bears, after two anemic offensive performances, got 212 passing yards at Woodbury, including two touchdowns — from Alex Doroff to Isaac Kibagendi from 24 yards on a screen pass, and to a wide-open Vinny Villella from 33 yards on a perfect downfield strike.

Woodbury (2-1) turned it around with three straight TD gallops. ..

“Played well for a while. Gotta finish,” Bear coach Ryan Bartlett said.

Devin Mueller made several big plays for the Bears. The 6-foot-3 senior snagged a 31-yard pass from Doroff over the shoulder that set up Ben Watson’s 17-yard field goal, took a short pass and dashed 49 yards, blasted a 49-yard punt from the back of the end zone, ran eight yards out of punt formation for a first down, and made a pair of tackles for loss.

Doroff finished 10-for-26 for 199 yards with one interception. He left with a neck injury, not believed to be serious. Heidi Barber finished and had a tough time with two interceptions and a fumble, completing one pass.

Mueller made the two catches for 80 yards, Kibagendi four for 45, Villella three for

39, Kesean Lipscomb two for 48, and Dom Anderson one for 20. The Bears managed just 37 yards on 16 rushes. Defensively, Kibagendi intercepted a long pass at the one-yard line, Aiden Akins made three tackles-for-loss totaling 14 yards, and Ty Behnken notched a fumble recovery and two tackles for loss.

Bear girls kick up 4 wins in 6 days

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake pumped in 20 goals, nine of them by Jenna Maloy, in posting four girls soccer wins last week.

The No. 8 ranked Bears are 6-2-2 overall and 3-0 in the Suburban East after dispatching Mounds View 3-0, Roseville Area 7-1, Champlin Park 4-0 and

ZEPHYR SPORTS BRIEFS

FOOTBALL

LOOKING AHEAD

WHITE BEAR LAKE

FOOTBALL

7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 — at Forest Lake

BOYS SOCCER

• 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 — at Park High School

5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26 — at Woodbury High School

GIRLS SOCCER

5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 — at Park High School

10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 — Simley

TENNIS

4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 — at Irondale High School

• 4 p.m. Tuesday Sept. 26 — at Park High School

SWIMMING AND DIVING

6 p.m. Thursday, Sept.

21 — Conference meet, Roseville at White Bear

Lake YMCA

• 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 — Invitational at the University of Minnesota

CROSS COUNTRY

• Saturday, Sept. 23 —

Tom Watson Mustang Stampede at Chippewa Middle School

Hill-Murray 6-1.

“The team is playing elite defense right now, so we just need to continue to finish on the offensive end better,” coach Dave Ashley remarked after the Mounds View game. The offense did indeed ramp up for the rest of the week.

Maloy had four- and three-goal games, and Becca Smith made seven assists while notching

Mahtomedi rushed for 349 yards but still had a tough game against Hastings, beating the Raiders 13-7. Cole Saenger led the Zephyrs (2-1) with 12 rushes for 183 yards, capped by a 51-yard touchdown with 3:38 left

two goals. Kelsey Wolfe and Alivia Farrell each had two goals at Roseville. Teagan Coopet, Elyse Oelker, Madeline Thompson and  Abby O’Brien had a goal each in the week. Autumn Maki was in goal for both shutouts, logging six saves in each.

to open a 13-0 lead. Alec Mahoney rolled up 101 yards in 16 carries, Quarterback Charlie Brandt had 49 in 13 carries, with a two-yard touchdown in the first quarter, and was 5-for-16 for 40 yards passing with two interceptions. William Newman

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Jenna Maloy

caught three for 27 yards. Mahtomedi limited Hastings (1-2) to 41 yards rushing and 118 passing. The Raiders scored late on Lukas Foss’ pass to Matthew Foss from 22 yards.

BOYS SOCCER

Mahtomedi was 1-2 in Metro East matches, defeating Tartan 2-1 with goals by sophomores Kaden Gagnelius and Samuel Beulke, then losing to Hill-Murray 6-2 with Riley Burke and Gavin Maas scoring, and to TotinoGrace 3-1. The Zephyrs are 2-2 in conference and 4-5 overall.

GIRLS SOCCER

MAHTOMEDI

FOOTBALL

7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 — St. Thomas Academy

GIRLS SOCCER

3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 — at Benilde St. Margaret’s

• 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26 — at Simley

BOYS SOCCER

7 p.m. Sept. 21 — St. Thomas Academy

7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26 — At Simley

TENNIS

3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20 — at White Bear Lake • 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21— at Simley

3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26— Tartan

CROSS COUNTRY

5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28 — at Farmington

GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING

• 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 — South St. Paul

three assists in the week.

VOLLEYBALL

Mahtomedi has a 4-7 ledger after winning three of six. In Metro East matches, Park of Cottage Grove beat the Zephyrs 23-25, 25-9, 25-20, 25-31, and Mahtomedi topped Two Rivers 25-22, 25-20, 25-22. At the Farmington tournament, the Zephyrs lost to New Prague 25-9, 25-12; edged Faribault 23-25, 25-20, 16-14; lost to Jordan 25-18, 23-25, 15-8; and beat Elk River 25-21, 18-25, 15-8.

TENNIS

Jenna Maloy

Earlier she scored against Mounds View and Roseville. “What makes We Buy used vehicles FAMILY OWNED SINCe 1981

Mahtomedi collected three Metro East wins, using three different goalies. The Zephyrs, who have won seven straight, vanquished Tartan 3-0 (Jacque Worden in goal, four saves), Hill-Murray 2-0 (Harlow Berger, five saves), and Cretin-Derham Hall 3-1 (Stella Grabow, three saves). The Zephyrs, 4-0 in conference and 8-2 overall, handed Hill-Murray its first loss. Kaitlyn Moltzan drilled three goals against CDH. Notching a goal each were Aynslea Ulschmid, Allie Rippentrop and Victoria Nelson against Tartan; Olivia Thiele and Lauren Coy against H-M; and Ceci Emery against CDH. Rippentrop made

Mahtomedi won 7-0 over two Metro East rivals, North St. Paul and Two Rivers, and edged Stillwater 4-3 in a non-conference tilt reversing an earlier 5-2 loss to the Ponies. The Zephyrs are 6-5. Against Stillwater, Lily Carlson and Hannah Meslow won at 3 and 4 singles, and Kate Hoffman/Katherine Smith and Olivia Bengtson/Greta Munson won at 1 and 2 doubles. In the conference matches, Mallory Langer, Alayna Bartylla, and Carlson each won twice at 1-2-3 singles with Berkley Blaisdell and Stella Schroeder winning at 4-singles.

Bruce Strand

BRUCE STRAND

Devin Mueller turned a short pass into a 49-yard gain in the third period.

BRUCE STRAND

Alivia Farrell of the Bears got this shot past Roseville goalie Aliyah Witte just 16 seconds into the game. The Bears won 7-1.

prosecutions that sometimes it’s very traumatic for a victim to have to testify and to explain what has happened to them.”

Assistant Ramsey County Attorney

Treye Kettwick said the Minnesota BCA has created a Minnesota Human Trafficking Task Force comprised of BCA agents and members of law enforcement.

“We have an officer and investigator from the Minneapolis Police Department, St. Paul Police Department, Ramsey County (and) Hennepin County, and we brought over Woodbury and Oakdale because we recognize that these cases aren’t just occurring on an island, they’re occurring in our community as a whole and they’re moving from place to place,” Kettwick said. “Having this community partnership is helping us investigate these people. And that’s that’s part of what the task force is about. We also have people from

partnerships key to tackling exploitation

Homeland Security, the FBI, and we have data analysts.”

Kettwick explained that the task force will create a scene with a participant who pretends to be a 15- or 16-year-old girl and wait for men to ask if they can purchase her for sex. He said no matter what jurisdiction they are in, they get hundreds of men who proposition sex.

“We had an operation in St. Paul about a month ago, where we had 10 men show up to have sex with a 16-year-old,” Kettwick said. “It’s remarkable. It blows my mind every time we do. That’s our demand operations.”

Kettwick said the task force also has recovery operations, where they go on to the sex advertisements and invite young women, usually sex workers, to come set up a staging area. When they arrive, they’re not treated as a prostitute. They’re treated as a victim first.

“We look for their needs ... do you need housing? Do you need chemical

dependency treatment? Do you need food, water or shelter?” Kettwick said. “We try to build a rapport, because a lot of times they will not talk to us right away even if they’re being trafficked, because the manipulation is so deep. Some of these women genuinely think they’re in love and they will do anything to assist these people.”

He went on to say the recovery operations provide services to the victims so they don’t have to go back to their trafficker.

The task force has a tip line, and Kettwick noted that each tip is evaluated.

“That’s part of this community outreach piece,” Kettwick said. “We go into schools, we go into hotels, we go to the airport to talk to employees about what are signs to look for that something is amiss and trafficking is going on, because it’s happening throughout our community.”

So, what are the signs of someone who is being sex trafficked?

“Some of it is the stuff that makes you just feel uncomfortable in general,” Kettwick said. “Somebody looks timid or somebody who looks like they’re being controlled. Usually, it’s men using abusive language or somebody that looks like they’re just in a dominant position.”

He noted that asking someone if they are OK or if they need help can make a

difference.

“A lot of times they feel like they’re on an island with their trafficker and that person is in complete control,” Kettwick said. “There are absolutely times when reaching out will help that one individual. And that’s a big thing.”

Choi said since he was elected in 2011, progress has been made to combat sex trafficking, but there is still a lot of work to be done.

“We want to change some of the bad things that happen in our community,” Choi said. “We need to confront some of the hard things that we have to do in our lives, one of which is just the conversations and the relationships that we have within our own families or communities or places of worship, and where we all congregate. It’s great that here in this Rotary club, you guys are talking about these things and thinking about it.”

To report a suspected trafficking situation in Minnesota, call the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension at 1-877-996-6222, email bca.tips@state.mn.us, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888373-7888, or send the text HELP to 233733.

Noelle Olson is the editor of the White Bear Press. She can be reached at whitebearnews@presspubs.com or 651-407-1229