Plans to purchase and install an electric vehicle charging station in front of City Hall failed to proceed at last week’s White Bear Lake City Council meeting. The council disagreed on the planned purchase by a vote of three to two: members Bill Walsh, Heidi Hughes and Steve Engstran voted against the resolution and Kevin Edberg and Andrea West voted in favor of it.
The proposed charging station would be a public, dual-use one and cost $20,500. This would also include five years of software maintenance and $5,000 for a second fiveyear software maintenance renewal to be included in a future budget. City staff had also proposed a user fee of 17 cents per kilowatt for each vehicle, which would have been added to the city’s 2025 fee schedule.
“It feels like we’re trying to run our city like a business,” said Walsh, “where we try to determine our costs and how to recover them. We would have to make these decisions as though we’re purchasing an asset, such as charging the right price and advertising it over a certain number of years. We should stick to our core functions of providing public safety, plowing streets and offering clean water to homes. It feels like there’s no ‘why’ as to why we need to commit to this other than ‘we want to encourage this technology.’”
Hughes’ issue with the station was centered on its funding. “I don’t see how it’s up to my neighbors to fund a charging source for those who buy alternative vehicles,” said Hughes. “It’s great for those who want to buy them, but I
German students wave goodbye to high school
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
A group of exchange students who have been in White Bear Lake for four weeks said goodbye to the city and returned home to their native country this week. The students were in the city through the German American Partnership Program (GAPP), a nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for exchange between the United States and Germany. Through the program, a group of 10 to 20 German students and their teachers from F.-A.Brockhaus-Schule Gymnasium, a high school in Leipzig, travel to White Bear Lake during the fall semester for two weeks. Similarly, a group of 10 to 20
students and teachers from White Bear Lake Area High School travel to Germany in the summer for two weeks.
This aspect of the program was established between the two schools in 1999 and has remained a fixture of the GAPP program since.
The exchange students and program coordinator Stefan Schulze-Brüggemann stayed with different host families around the city. Each host family provided them one meal daily, rooming and transportation to and from different school activities. Other traveling and visiting expenses were covered by both the students and the GAPP program itself.
During their stay, the students participated in many fun
activities tailored to introduce them to Minnesota’s culture and events. These included visiting the League of Women Voters; riding the Stillwater River Boat Cruise; and visiting Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon.
The students also participated in various activities with their host families during their stay, culminating with a farewell barbecue at the house of David and Lindsay Lamwers. David currently teaches earth science and coaches tennis at Mariner Middle School, while Lindsay is a media specialist at White Bear Lake Area High School.
The students departed from Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport on Oct. 15 for Frankfurt, where they will then leave for Leipzig.
Katherine Kroll is the owner of “Congressional candidate” Gretel. Eight month old Gretel comes from a diverse lineage of more than a dozen canine breeds. Learn more about Kroll and Gretel on page 11.
RICKA MCNAUGHTON CONTRIBUTED
LINDSAY LAMWERS | CONTRIBUTED
A group of German exchange students bid farewell to visiting White Bear Lake before returning home: (back row, from left) GAPP Exchange Program coordinator Stefan Schulze-Brüggemann, Johann Bienert, Pauline Gaebler, Albert Goetze, Toby Behrndt, Robin Henze, Tim Reusch; (front row) Fabian Eichelbaum, Julius Brzuske, Stéphanie Dussault, Emma Gabke, Olivia Tielscher, Emily Bartnik, Martha Henk.
FEAR
“The staff are all amazing, caring, and compassionate people. Dr. Anderson is one of the best pain-free, accommodating dentist I have ever had, and I am no spring chicken! I have found my forever dentist.” T.G
“Everyone at White Bear Smiles is fantastic! Both dentists really know their stuff, so you can’t go wrong seeing Dr. Swift or Dr. Anderson. They also have an excellent membership program available for people that don’t have dental insurance, so it’s easy to get your teeth taken care of without breaking the bank!” L.R
PAIN
“Amazing dental hygienists, and great dentists! I needed a wisdom tooth removed and multiple fillings. The staff worked well together, and it was completely painless. Definitely cured my dental anxiety!” Dan
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP NOTES
• The White Bear Lake Area Hockey Association is in the process of receiving a gambling license for fundraising purposes conducted at MC’s Taco and Tequila. In accordance with Minnesota gambling laws, the hockey association submitted the request to the township board for approval of a gambling premise. The board granted the request, forwarding it to Ramsey County. The county, pending review, will issue the license. The gambling activities the association plans to conduct include pull tabs and bingo. MC’s Taco and Tequila is a new restaurant preparing to open near Emagine White Bear Township theater off of County Road J. The property was formerly known as Lucy’s Burgers.
• Town Clerk Patrick Christopherson brought forward a Safety Commission recommendation for the installation of a threeway stop sign at Halper Way and Otter View Trail. The Safety Commission collected data with the help of residents and the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office. “Residents presented a petition and emphatically requested—again— that there be a three-way stop,” Christopherson stated. “I’ve been in that area; I know it very well,” said Town Supervisor Steve Ruzek. “I agree that it should be done.” The board approved the Public Works project.
• Town Engineer Larry Poppler recommended that the board approve feasibility studies for street improvements on Portland Woods, Anderson Lane and Silver Fox Area. Because these areas reside in the Rice Creek Watershed District, the studies will have to consider special storm drainage requirements. According to Poppler, the feasibility reports include “pond soil borings, street soil borings, storm pipe cleaning/televising, wetland delineation and some field survey.” Data gleaned from these surveys will be used over the winter to develop project plans to be delivered in spring 2025. The combined cost of these surveys will not exceed $239,100. The board ordered preparation of the reports.
• Angie Novotny, a resident of Stillwater Street requested guidance on official processes to add a crosswalk between Otter Lake Road and Stillwater Street. “People kind of use that as their let’s-go-as-fastas-we-can road. Nobody stops for you even though they are supposed to,” Novotny said. Christopherson encouraged Novotny to gather her concerns and send them to him so that he could put them before public safety review. “You’re biggest hurdle is that you’re dealing with a county road,” said Prudhon. “We don’t have a lot of leverage with the county.” Christopherson added, “But we can try.”
The White Bear Township Board next meets at 7 p.m., Monday, Oct. 21. Logan Gion
Sunrise Salon and Tanning closes after nearly 40 years
Sunrise Salon and Tanning will close its doors at the end of October. The salon was owned and operated for 38 years by longtime White Bear Lake resident Mark Danielson.
“Everything has an expiration date. Nothing lasts forever,” said Danielson. “And tanning is one of them.”
Danielson added that it was a great run. He said he met a lot of good people and had good employees. When the salon first opened, it had 22 beds tanning beds. Danielson said he only needs seven tanning beds now.
“I have nothing to complain about. It was a lot of fun,” Danielson added.
A printing business will take over the old salon space. Danielson will be moving half a mile down the road from the salon to Urban Edge Cuts, where
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“I look back on it and I go, ‘This is just a wonderful life experience. A wonderful work experience.’ And I have zero regrets,” he said. Sunrise Salon and Tanning is located at 2043
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“The Carlson Clinic is top notch, caring and considerate. The therapy plan treatments have reduced pain and increased my mobility considerably. Thanks to all of you, you really make a difference!”
“I threw my back out and was home alone. A therapy specialist was sent to come and get me. I never heard of such service, most importantly, I could stand up straight after 4 visits!” - JM
Dr. Dustin Carlson, DC
4717 Clark Avenue, White Bear Lake
651-762-8040
The Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation has launched the 8th year of the Community Partners Fund, which raises money each year to provide grants to nonprofits serving our communities.
Last year we raised and granted $100,000. New this year, local nonprofit organizations can apply for grants up to $10,000.
Join the fun!
We invite you to this free event open to the public! Come and trunk and treat with the residents of Harbor Crossing and dress in your favorite costume.
Please help us reach our 2024 goal of raising $100,000 or more to provide grants directly to our community! Every dollar donated to the Community Partners Fund goes directly to organizations that serve our community. These grants help nonprofits succeed and make a positive impact on the Greater White Bear Lake area.
County Road E, White Bear Lake. Customers are still be able to use and purchase sessions. The salon will officially close on Oct. 31.
Madeline Dolby
OPINION
Wind and water powerful
Helene is now considered one of the worst hurricanes to hit the United States since Katrina in 2005. The death toll is over 250 and they are still counting. The damage is devastating to property, homes, businesses and the very infrastructure of communities in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas.
Next we had Hurricane Milton on the west coast of Florida, which crossed the state doing damage to areas on the east coast. Most people in this path evacuated, reducing the death toll. The damage is expected to be high because of the heavy rain, storm surge, and tornadoes.
About the Town Gene Johnson
People have lost their homes, the power outages continue in the thousands, and drinking water is limited, especially in areas like western North Carolina.
Can you imagine being without water, food and medications?
Can you imagine a 20-foot wall of water coming at you from the surges that are created by these powerful storms? What is even worse is people lost and not discovered yet. Families broken, interrupted, and injured.
They need rescue workers, they need supplies, and now we understand why the government program of FEMA is so important. Thanks also goes to military assistance provided. All these people, rescue workers and volunteers need our prayers and encouragement.
Through these horrifying storms, people are discovering neighbors and working together like they have never before. That’s encouraging and that’s good, but they still suffer the major losses of their homes, their vehicles, their valuables, the family heirlooms, family records and pictures of their family history. Many businesses and industries have been interrupted or destroyed. It’s hard to comprehend. It’s hard to recover and know whether life will ever be the same for them.
We need to give thanks every day for our health, safety, family and friends and a Heavenly Father that is watching over us in every situation. Words in the Bible will give us comfort at times like this and give us hope.
Neighbors count
The series of hurricanes are bringing new meaning and value of being neighborly. It gets down to people helping people through the loss of lives, property, and all the grief that goes with it.
Whether we are in a storm area or right here in our own communities, how often do you visit with a neighbor? What about sharing a plate of cookies with a neighbor or two the next time you bake?
Do you have a new resident in your neighborhood? It’s a good time to welcome them and tell them about the community that you love and enjoy.
Share the local newspaper with them if they do not receive it. The newspaper is a great way to know about the community and be in contact and learn about current events and special events that are taking place.
Sometimes it means inviting them to the church you attend.
Don’t forget about those who are lonely, sometimes because of age or illness, or veterans who have served our country and are alone.
Think about ways you can be neighborly. It all goes together to build strong communities where people care about each other.
Thanks for caring and being a good neighbor.
Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.
Talking seasonal vaccines with U of M
COVID-19 and the flu are constantly changing, and new waves can circulate and spread unexpectedly. In Minnesota, nearly three-quarters of urban residents are vaccinated against COVID-19, compared to just over half of rural residents according to previous research.
Professor Rebecca Wurtz from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health shares her expertise on why the COVID-19 and flu vaccines are so important, and when the best time is to get vaccinated this year.
Q: What is different about the new COVID-19 vaccine, and who should get it?
Prof. Wurtz: The new vaccine uses the same technology as the old one — the only difference is it has been updated to be more protective against the variants of COVID-19 circulating now. It’s similar to the way the flu vaccine is updated each year to combat changing flu strains. Everyone six months and older should get the vaccine.
So if you are reading this, you should get it.
Q: Is my last vaccine still working?
Prof. Wurtz: If your last vaccine was longer than six months ago, it is no longer working as well as it could be. That’s for two reasons: COVID-19 immunity wanes over time and the virus changes.
Q: I had COVID-19 this summer. Do I still need to get the vaccine this fall?
Prof. Wurtz: The CDC says you are protected for about three months after a bout of COVID-19. If you were sick at the beginning of summer, now’s the time to get the vaccine, but if you had it toward the end of summer, you can wait until November or early December for your next dose for best protection over the winter holidays.
Q: Can I get the vaccine if I’m immunocompromised?
Prof. Wurtz: The answer is a resounding yes! COVID-19 is more dangerous if you are immunocompromised. It’s important to be well protected. Also, it is definitely okay to get both the COVID-19 shot and the flu shot at the same time. As of September 2024, there
isn’t one shot for both. There is one in the works, but don’t wait for the combo shot – the time to get the COVID shot is now.
Q: When is the right time to get a flu shot?
Prof. Wurtz: Flu is a seasonal disease, typically occurring during the winter months. The best time to get the flu shot is early in the season — which “officially” starts this year on September 30, so early October is the best time. Why not get it earlier? The flu season often lasts into March and April. Much like the COVID-19 vaccine, the flu vaccine’s benefits wane after six months. If you get it too early, you won’t be protected in late spring. In some years, the annual flu epidemic is still going strong in April and even May, and it’s okay to get a second flu shot in the spring if you are at high risk of serious complications of the flu.
Rebecca Wurtz is an infectious disease physician, public health informaticist and professor in the U of M School of Public Health. “Talking...with U of M” is a resource whereby University of Minnesota faculty answer questions on current and other topics of general interest.
WHITE BEAR PRESS/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES
• Election season is considered to be from the filing deadline until the day of the election.
• Limited to 350 words.
• Letters are free unless endorsing or opposing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement/ opposition letters will have a $50 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement/ opposition letters are labeled, “paid letter.”
• 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.
• Letters are meant to express opinions. If letter-writers include facts, they must attribute those facts to a reputable news source.
• 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. 5 election will be printed in the Oct. 23 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.16.
• To submit a letter, email news@presspubs.com or mail/ deliver it to Press Publications.
4 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
Movers & Shakers
Rebecca Wurtz
Appreciate pet obit
I’m writing about the sweet obituary for Molly Jane Reagan. Reading about their “beloved pet boss-lady” brought tears to my eyes. I have been a dog mom for decades and refer to myself as such. I have been lucky to have many furry family members, including my “dog of a lifetime”. For Molly’s pet parents to share a glimpse into her quirks and antics with us is truly touching. Personally, I share in the grief and sadness for Molly, a sweet girl I have never met. I feel the warmth and genuine love she was given over her 13 1/2 years. Molly and her pet parents were blessed to be a part of each other’s lives.
To her parents, know that Molly’s last gift to you was a lifetime of wonderful memories. Only those who have loved a furry kid, truly loved them, will understand the importance of writing such a beautiful piece. I appreciate you doing so. “Rest well, sweet Molly girl.”
Kristin Anderson Hugo
Response to letter
Response to George Kimball’s “Need 2-State Solution” letter.
According to the Bible, God promised the land of Israel to Abraham and his descendants in Genesis 12:7, 15:18 and 17:8. Nothing was mentioned for them to share it with anybody else.
If you have a problem with that, Mr. Kimball, you take it up with God.
Annemarie and Jim Foley White Bear Lake
Disappointed about sign theft
From the 1940s until 2008, as members of the Armed Forces, my family members were not allowed under the Hatch Act of 1939 to take part actively in partisan Minnesota or federal political campaigns. We voluntarily relinquished First Amendment rights to avoid the appearance of bias or attempting to pressure our fellow citizens with government offices.
I returned to live in White Bear Lake in July for the first time in over 40 years. In September I put out a sign at my residence favoring one candidate. The morning of Oct. 7, 2024, and the first anniversary of the attack by radical jihadists on Israel, my sign was stolen by a sneak thief after dark without warning.
Perhaps the Press of White Bear Lake might assist me with one simple act as a sign of tolerance by protecting my First Amendment rights as we protected yours, by making it known in your public presses that my sign favoring the candidate I support was stolen from my yard.
I appreciate your forbearance and add only that if the sign is returned there will be no
SCHOOL BRIEF
questions asked, other than perhaps a question as to who the real threats to democracy are locally.
David Warren Knight White Bear Lake
PAID LETTER
Candidates
will empower teachers
Growing up with a teacher for a mother, I have seen how dedicated teachers are to their students. Teachers know their students, they know their curriculum and they know how to help kids learn in the best way possible.
That’s why it’s important to me to elect school board members that will support and empower teachers in the work they do, equip them with the latest technology, and listen to their voices on the important issues. That’s why I support the ACT candidates. Scott Arcand, Brian Cern and Angela Thompson will ACT in the best interest of our students, parents, educators and community.
Good education is integral to our society. The better we do for our children in their education, the better members of society they will be. As a mother to three children, I can see the outstanding quality of the White Bear Area School District. We have had children in several levels of education — each time my oldest graduates to a new level of school, I worry it won’t be able to compare with the prior levels — and every time, they have blown me out of the water with their education, support and innovation.
I can also see how important the teachers have been to them as people as well as their education. We feel so lucky to live in White Bear Lake with schools like these. It is important to me that we continue to be a district that values integrity, and puts students and their successes first. Scott, Brian and Angela have committed to these values, to supporting teachers and more — and that’s why I plan to vote for them in November!
I encourage you to vote for school board members who will ACT in the best interest of our schools, students, educators — and the future of our community!
Thank you — and Go Bears!
Stefanie Fauth White Bear Lake
PAID LETTER
Shifting blame
Brion Curran and her fellow Democrats should look in the mirror to find those to blame for the economic woes she cites in her website paragraph on economic security. Ordinary and, especially, the poorest Americans are affected more than affluent Americans by the rampant cost inflation in energy, groceries, and housing. These increases are
Tutors needed in White Bear Lake
The AmeriCorps tutoring programs are still looking for 500 tutors across the state to support students in area schools and preschools. Willow Lane Elementary is still in need of one math tutor.
Tutors are fully trained and will serve on-site at a local school 35, 25 or 18 hours a week. Using scripted activities, tutors meet with students individually and in small groups to practice essential skills. Prior teaching experience isn’t required, and
due to their energy policies and profligate spending. I am especially dismayed by her silly blame-casting on unnamed corporations for price gouging. That is just leftist class warfare that tries to shift blame from where it belongs, which is on them.
Dianna Delaney Hugo
PAID LETTER
No response from candidate
I’m compelled to inform White Bear Lake voters about my personal experience with current state Representative Brion Curran.
I’m a founding member of the Neighborhood Concerned Citizens Group (NCCG), a grassroots volunteer group who worked tirelessly, in a bipartisan and collaborative way, to make right a significant wrong that happened in our community after we learned, in 2019, that a local manufacturing plant had polluted the air, water and soil in our area with toxic and carcinogenic chemicals for decades.
In mid-2023, after having worked successfully for more than four years with responsive and responsible legislators, including senators, state representatives, county commissioners, regulatory agencies and even Governor Walz, we needed the support of all of those folks on a matter which was being contested by Water Gremlin, now bankrupt.
I contacted Brion Curran’s office by telephone on six occasions, without any return call. I also contacted Brion Curran’s office by email on 10 occasions, without the courtesy of a response. That is 16 attempts. All without a response.
Frankly, I was stunned to learn Brion planned to run for reelection. And I’m left without words after reading Brion’s declaration on her webpage, that “your priorities are my priorities. Being an elected official means bringing the voice of the people to the room where decisions are made.” Per my personal experience, these statements could not be more untrue. Pure fiction.
Brion pursues Brion’s agenda. She does not hear nor can she be bothered to respond to the residents and voters of our area. Those who elected this person should not be duped by webpage rhetoric, rhetoric that bears no image of reality or reflects a true commitment to citizens. It also should not be overlooked that Brion brought the ultimate shame to her name and her office when she was arrested in October 2023 for driving while under the influence and charged with two counts of gross misdemeanor DWI. After pleading guilty, she was sentenced to 90 days in jail and supervised probation for two years. As of this writing, Brion has served
tutors receive comprehensive training and ongoing coaching.
All tutors receive a stipend every two weeks, plus up to $2,800 to pay for college tuition or student loans. Those who are 55 or older may choose to gift their education award to their child, grandchild, stepchild or foster child. Many tutors also qualify for additional benefits like free individual health insurance and child care assistance. For more information or to apply to become a tutor, visit join.readingandmath.org.
just two days of that 90-day sentence. The remaining 88 days will be “stayed” for a period of two years, apparently so she can continue to pursue HER priorities and HER agenda, and make this illadvised bid for reelection.
Brion Curran does not represent my priorities. I doubt she will represent yours. If Brion cannot be bothered to return phone calls and emails to a citizen who HAS worked for the good of the community, how dare she make that proclamation on her webpage? Phone calls and emails merely requested support on a matter which has been and continues to be critically important to MANY residents of this area. She is an embarrassment to her party.
Brion does not deserve to be reelected. She does not deserve a pass on her lack of responsiveness to the citizens of this area. She does not deserve your vote.
Sheri Smith White Bear Lake
PAID LETTER
Will be communitybuilder
I am running for mayor of Birchwood Village to serve the residents in a kind, respectful, fiscally responsible way.
Prior to Mayor Margaret, there was often a lack of respect from some council members for residents who spoke during the council meetings. Residents of Birchwood should have the expectation that the council meetings are run with decorum and that all residents have an equal voice in this community and should be heard and respected.
Birchwood’s current road maintenance plan, developed by the city engineer, is a good one. The plan takes into account the city’s budget while creating a long-term, ongoing maintenance and replacement plan for the roads. With this plan, the city does not have to take on long-term debt. As mayor, I would also create a five-to-seven-year capital improvement plan to maintain the city’s infrastructure. Proactive maintenance would help reduce the chances of sudden failure that would disrupt service to residents and negatively impact the budget.
I have served on the Parks Committee for the past two years and have held open forums and listening sessions to get community input. As a committee, we have received $85,000 in grant money to address water and soil issues near Tighe-Schmitz Park. I’ve enjoyed speaking with residents and working collaboratively with them and council members on park projects. Because committee work is valuable, it needs to be respected. As mayor, I would form committee work groups to tackle continuing and new city projects.
In addition, I am interested in community building. Everyone has unique gifts to offer. I would love to tap into those gifts by providing opportunities for community involvement in city business and offering social gatherings around a variety of interests.
I am a retired educator and have served on church councils and committees. I have been president and treasurer of a nonprofit and have had experience listening to residents and responding
to their needs. I believe my experience, empathy and diligence will make me a respectful mayor for all the residents of Birchwood Village, bringing a fresh perspective to move Birchwood forward.
Jennifer Arsenault Birchwood Village
PAID LETTER
Us vs. cancer
One of the most demoralizing, truly frightening aspects of 2015-2024 America is how many GOOD Americans deceived by Trump’s lies and fear mongering have drunk the Kool-Aid and entered the cult. Now in MANY private conversations: disbelief that so many GOOD Americans have suspended rational thinking; despair that so many have been sucked into Far Right echo chamber Alice-in-Wonderland fairy tales; fear America will repeat Germany’s 1932, turn America into the theocratic plutocracy Trumpers and Far Right have planned for decades, visible in “Project 2025” and partially visible in known “Christian Nationalist” plans. Claims Trump’s economy better; Democrats solely responsible for inflation; America under “criminal immigrant” siege; crime out of control, etc. — factually false, taken out of context, ignore Republicans creating problems for political gain, ignore DOCUMENTED statistics, ignore COVID-19 effects. Research 1945-79, 1980-2024 income, wealth, tax rates; crime statistics 1950-2024; Border Patrol funding; 1980-2024 retail prices; CEO confessions they jacked up prices during COVID. Research fascism; authoritarianism; religious freedom; voter suppression; 1789-1939 Supreme Court Second Amendment rulings; America’s record billionaires; Americans having fewer children.
For laughs and alarm, find Marjorie Taylor Greene’s “Washington controlling hurricane Helene for political gain” insanity! In Barbara McQuade’s “Attack From Within”, read “The Authoritarian Playbook” and “Disinformation” sections — how Trump, Putin, Hitler speak.
Read James Gilligan’s “Why Some Politicians Are More Dangerous Than Others” — how DOCUMENTATION 1900- shows America wracked by violent death, social and economic distress — when Republicans held the White House.
Research the ORIGINAL Second Amendment — with “conscientious objectors” exemption — as in military service — the REAL intent. Research Edwin Gaustad’s “Faith of the Founders,” Appendix B: eight states banned active ministers from government, four banned “Religious Tests” for office (Article VI), 10 banned an “Established church” (Amendment One); see 1776 North Carolina Constitution, Articles XXXIV: not “on any pretense whatsoever” would YOU be forced to follow doctrines of a church you didn’t believe in.
Are YOU unknowingly believing and repeating Russian and Chinese propaganda? They intend to get YOU to question democracy, election legitimacy, American
COPS&COURTS
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected incidents in Birchwood, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Mahtomedi
• Everyone was up in the early hours, after a Wildwood Road resident at 2:56 a.m. Sept. 8 reported the neighbors for playing loud music. The neighbor turned off the music while the complainant was still talking to dispatch.
• Loretta Lane residents on Sept. 9 reported a fraudulent AT&T account created in their names.
• Frankland Street residents reported their son’s bicycle stolen Sept. 9 from O. H. Anderson elementary while he was at school. The complainant then drove around the area and found the bicycle. Hallam Avenue S. residents on Sept. 10 reported their driver’s license stolen and used to obtain bail bond.
• The lawn sign wars have begun, after an advertisement sign on Arbor Avenue was reported “tagged” on Sept. 10. On Sept. 11, a political sign on Wedgewood Drive was reported stolen from the complainant’s yard.
• A kayak was reported stolen from a public rack in the 1000 block of Park Avenue on Sept. 11.
• Deputies on directed patrol for speed violations in the posted 30 mph zone along the 1300 block of Mahtomedi Avenue during the morning of Sept. 11 reported seeing countless vehicles drive by, with only two violations observed, two traffic stops conducted and no citations issued. However, at 5:38 p.m., when deputies moved down the street to Mahtomedi Avenue and Spruce Street, they stopped six vehicles and issued three citations. A passenger was arrested Sept. 11 on Warner Avenue N. and Greenwood Street on a gross
government — so does Trump. There are NO good reasons to vote Trump — but MANY bad, undemocratic ones. The greatest American con man ever is working the greatest con ever — for the presidency. Don’t have to lie to your children/ grandchildren about YOUR 2024 vote. The 2024 election really isn’t about Trump — it’s about US.
Tom Dolen Shoreview
misdemeanor warrant, and the driver cited for driving after revocation, following a traffic stop for inoperable tail light. A person with multiple warrants turned himself in at 2:23 a.m. Sept. 12 to deputies patrolling Stillwater Road.
• A third person was arrested on warrant at 1:07 a.m. Sept. 14 on southbound Century Avenue at I-694, following a traffic stop for speeding.
• Deputies keeping their eyes out for expired tabs cited four motorists during the evening of Sept. 13 – two on Century Avenue at Long Lake Road and two on Mahtomedi and Dahlia Street. Two of the motorists were also cited for failure to provide proof of insurance.
• Deputies responding to a report of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and cellphone Sept 14 from Wildwood Road batted .500, after they were able to locate the motor vehicle, but discovered the cell phone was lost.
• Suspicious males reported for prowling around a construction site on 70th Street at 8:45 p.m. Sept. 14 with flashlights turned out to be there to work on drywall.
Pine Springs
• After deputies flew out to the scene of two sandhill cranes in the median of Highway 36 at 9:43 a.m. Sept. 8, they found the cranes had already flown away.
Willernie
• An electric bike was reported found Sept. 10 in the woods at a park on Charing Lane.
• A motorist was arrested at 2:32 a.m. Sept. 13 on Trim Place and Stillwater Road, after deputies conducted a traffic stop for an excessively speeding vehicle and discovered the driver was cancelled due to behavior inimical to public safety.
PAID LETTER
Candidates will ensure good district
Please join me in voting for Scott Arcand, Brian Cern, and Angela Thompson (ACT) for ISD 624 school board. These days, a “good” school district isn’t just about excellence in teaching and in varsity sports. It’s about safe, supportive and inclusive schools. It’s about cutting-edge technology for both students and staff. It’s about forward thinking, holistic and globally aware planning. ACT candidates will ensure our schools are part of such a “good” district. How do we know this? Arcand and Thompson each
Police chief discusses new recruits, crime statistics
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Despite an increase in reported traffic stops, arrests and other areas of concern, White Bear Lake Police Chief Dale Hager says that residents should not be worried over these statistics. The answer, he states, is not due to an overall increase in crime, but rather an increase in the number of officers responding to incidents.
“I can categorically say that violent crime is not on the rise in White Bear Lake,” Hager responded. “Crime, in general, is not on the rise, either. We have more arrests because our officers are working harder. What we have are a new group of officers incentivized to make a difference.”
“Crime, in general, is not on the rise, either.”
Dale Hager Chief of Police
In addition to the promotion of former Sergeant Isaac Tuma and Police Detective Mike Sellner to administrative captain and patrol sergeant, respectively, the department has seen many people join the team in the last eight months. One of these is returning Officer Connor Dillon, who briefly left the department earlier in the year to work in Washington County before returning to White Bear Lake. Another is Officer Jordan McNamara, who recently completed the department’s field training program and will be sworn in “within a month or so,” according to Hager.
New recruits included Zachary Zengtgen, Jacob Sungaard and Connor Severson. Zengtgen and Sungaard are currently in the field training program, while Severson recently began working as one of the department’s newest community service officers. The department’s
already have nearly five years’ experience on the school board. Their proposals and votes demonstrate again and again that they act in the best interests of our students, parents, educators and community. Cern is cofounder and a member of Northstar Elementary PTA, former member of the Hugo/ Oneka PTA and a parent of a NorthStar elementary student. ACT candidates are either teachers, parents or both. They understand school finance and how to balance the district’s budget without harming instruction, including special education services and career education. They promote transparency in government
current roster includes Hager as police chief, two captains, four sergeants, 18 patrol officers, three investigators, three school resource officers, three community service officers (with two currently being backgrounded) and four administrative staff members. In his presentation, Hager highlighted increases in four different areas: traffic stops, arrests, case numbers and community engagement events, depicted as percentages. Of these figures, Hager stated: “I’m not big into statistics, and I don’t measure our department based on them. We try to measure them based on the satisfaction of our citizens. Our goal was to be more active this year than we have in years past.”
The statistics are as follows:
• Recorded traffic stops were up by 25%.
• The total number of arrests has increased by 13%.
• Case numbers have increased by 5%.
• Community events are up by 60%.
“A lot of this is attributed to us having more staffing,” added Hager. “With more staffing, we could do more self-initiated activities. Thanks to everyone involved, we increased the number of officers on the streets this year.”
Mayor Dan Lousimet thanked Hager for prioritizing hiring more officers. “I want to extend my thanks and compliments to you for getting the department fully staffed,” said Lousimet. “The council and members of the public know how difficult hiring in law enforcement is right now. You guys have beat the odds and done it well.”
and seek common ground and overlapping perspectives when differences arise. They are collaborative, collective and community-driven.
During our 34 years in ISD 624, my family and I have tracked the ups and downs of the district over superintendent changes, through financial woes and more. We appreciate the integrity and strong fundamentals that Arcand and Thompson have already been contributing, and are confident that Cern will join them in these positive and productive efforts.
A recent letter writer asserted that our district needs board members who are not teachers. What?! Teachers are exactly the
board members who will keep their focus on teaching and learning — the core and essence of excellence. The smarts and dedication of teachers, parents and students are what define a school as not just “good,” but “great.” ACT candidates embody these “great” qualities. Review the candidate profiles in the Press Publications Voters’ Guide. Arcand, Cern, and Thompson embody hope and strategic energy. I invite you to join me and my family in voting for these ACT candidates.
Where: St. Mary of the Lake Parish Life Center, 4690 Bald Eagle Ave.
Details: Annual rummage and bake sale fundraiser; Saturday is $5 bag day.
‘LIGHT IN DROPLETS’ COMMUNITY
RECEPTION
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17
Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.
Details: View arwtork of the Minnesota Watercolor Society on display through Nov. 15
Contact: whitebeararts.org
BEAA ANNUAL MEETING AND CELEBRATION
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17
Where: White Bear Boat Works, 4495 Lake Ave. S.
Details: Annual meeting of the Bald Eagle Area Association includes presentation of award by Rice Creek Watershed Distirct.
Contact: baldeagleassn.org
RUN FOR THE APPLES
When: 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Where: Jacobson’s Pine Tree Apple Orchard, 450 Apple Orchard Road, Dellwood
Details: 5 mile trail walk/run through the orchard, strawberry fields and pumpkin patch. Age group awards and apple treats. Early registration incentives. Kids 1/3 mile fun run at 10:30 a.m. Proceeds support Strive scholarship program.
Contact: whitebearrotary.org
VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD PROGRAM
When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 19
Where: Vadnais Heights Commons,
655 E. County Road F
Details: Distribution of food to any family in need and considered low income. May register day of event. Contact: 612-245-9259 or cityvadnaisheights.com/foodshelf
Where: Pine Tree Apple Orchard, 450 Apple Orchard Road
Details: Display of quilts made by members of local guild. Contact: pinetreeappleorchard.com
MITCHELL HALL & THE TENNESSEE
TRIO: A TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Avenue
Details: Tribute concert to the Man in Black. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
FILL THE TRUCK AT TRUNK OR TREAT
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24
Where: White Bear Area YMCA, 2100 Orchard Lane
Details: Non-scary tick-or-treating event where kids can visit decorated vehicles for candy and go inside the Y for additional activities. Donations for non-perishable food items for the food shelf requested.
Contact: 651-777-8103
BEARSCARE FUN RUN
When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Oct. 26
Where: Otter lake Elementary School
Details: Half-mile “Skeleton Skip” kids’ run begins at 9:45 a.m.. At 10 a.m., the “Freaky Four Miler” and “Terrifying Two Miler” start. Fundraiser for Otter Lake and Lincoln Elementary Schools. See registration information online. Contact: bit.ly/BearScare2024
White Bear Lake Area
Church
Directory
The Cafe Meow gives felines new leash on life
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
While getting a cranberry scone at The Cafe Meow, one might feel unnerved—like something not human is watching.
“We do ask that human food be left on the stand before entering the cat lounge,” says Elissa Alfahed, general manager of The Cafe Meow’s Roseville location. As she does her hourly check of the enclosure, three different felines, referred to as “cat staff,” rub up against Alfahed’s shins, a tad disappointed that the bakery items are trapped behind glass yet again.
Year round, The Cafe Meow “hires” cats that local rescues believe are either sociable or would benefit from more contact with humans. The cats are then spayed and neutered, vaccinated, fully tested and microchipped. Finally, they’re ready to charm visitors in hopes that a human will adopt them or become less anxious around them.
“We’ve had people come in and try to come over their fears,” owner and founder Jess Burge says. Residents of senior and group home are also regular visitors. “They might not be able to have their own cat, but here they can have that relationship.”
This week, The Cafe Meow is hosting their seventh annual Rescue Week fundraiser, Oct. 18-20. The proceeds go to the pet shelters from where the cat staff is recruited.
Events include raffle tickets on Friday, a silent auction on Saturday, and donation-based lounge visits on Sunday. Burge continues. “You’re supporting a community-based
business who is doing something for the people here and the cats.”
The Café Meow is located at 1718A Lexington Avenue N., Roseville. For details or to book a reservation, visit thecafemeow.com.
Reece is one of the cats participating at The Café Meow’s Rescue Week. “I’m obsessed with her personality,” says Burge. “She teases and taunts you, runs away, then peeks to see if you’re still there.”
PHOTOS
EV CHARGER: Vote cites funding, space concerns
don’t see how my neighbors need to be a bank account for this. It shouldn’t be a communitywide investment for everyone on my block.”
Engstran disagreed on the location of the station’s placement, citing the busy nature of the city’s license bureau. “I don’t want to take up any extra parking spots for these people,” said Engstran, who proposed the station be moved to a parking spot away from the building. “People have apps they can use to find them,” added Engstran. “It shouldn’t be where it will take up space for so many hours daily.”
West, for her part, said the station would suit out-of-town electric car owners visiting the downtown area. “In White Bear Township, Gem Lake and Dellwood, there are 249 (EV) vehicles,” said West. “Maplewood, Hugo, Mahtomedi and Birchwood Village have 398. North Oaks has 174, and Vadnais Heights has 82. I hear from people who live outside here who would want to visit, and I’m sure at least some of them have electric vehicles. Downtown, we need something to provide them. These vehicles are here to stay, and I think it’s important that we look to the future.”
Though agreeing with Walsh’s point, Edberg said accepting electric vehicles was important
4:30-5:30
5:30
for them to evolve. “This is a growing technology,” said Edberg, “evidenced by the number of businesses and residents making use of this; it’s already here. I want to remind you that when Henry Ford invented the horseless carriage in 1905, we didn’t engineer highways and freeways to accommodate them; it just happened naturally because technology evolved.”
Edberg noted switching to using less fossil fuel is influential in the fight against climate change. “We are in the early stages of a technological change centered around decarbonization,” said Edberg. “The use and reliance of fossil fuels, particularly oil, is contributing to massive global change. We need to look at Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, Milton in Tampa Bay and the
increased number of events shaped by too much carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. These are very serious things.” Mayor Dan Louismet ultimately chose not to support the resolution himself. “One thing I know to be true is that the demand in Minnesota for electric vehicles is not very high,” said Lousimet. “We’re still sub-one percent of all-electric vehicles on the road.” Lousimet also remained skeptical that the number of vehicles across the state would increase over the next several years. “The manufacturers have a hard time sourcing the raw materials to build them, and they will cater to a demand that is not there. I’m not buying that it will drum up the economic support that we think it will. Until it can be proven that this is a good technology with consumer demand, I don’t want to spend $20,000 of taxpayer money that is, at best, technology-venture capitalism.”
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him by phone at 651407-1229 or email at whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF AMENDED ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes, the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Nordson MEDICAL
2. The address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1270 Eagan Industrial Road, Ste 120 St. Paul, MN 55121
3. The name and address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name. (Only one signature is required by law.)
Note: if the business owner is a corporation, you must list the legal corporate name and the legal Registered Office of the corporation.
Micromedics, Inc.
1270 Eagan Industrial Road, Ste 120 St. Paul, MN 55121
4. This certificate is an amendment of Certificate of Assumed Name num ber 1025995400068 filed with the Secretary of State on 7/27/2018
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: October 9, 2024
Signed: Susan Warner, Assistant Secretary Published two times in the White Bear Press on October 16 and 23, 2024.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:
2G
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 20725 Howland Ave, PO Box 873 Lakeville, MN 55044
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
Advanced Coatings LLC
20725 Howland Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044
E-Craft Inc
1160 Red Fox Rd, Arden Hills, MN 55112
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: September 16, 2024
Signed: John Tonsager
Published two times in the White Bear Press on October 9 and 16, 2024.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minne sota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Junk Genius Junk Removal and Dumpsters
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
1907 Charles Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55104
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
Trash It Now LLC 1907 Charles Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55104
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of per jury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath. Dated: August 12, 2024
Signed: Michael Reimann
Published two times in the White Bear Press on October 9 and 16, 2024.
CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE, MINNESOTA PUBLIC NOTICE OF ELECTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a General Election will be held in the City of Birchwood Village, Minnesota, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at the polling locations listed below for the purpose of voting for candidates of the
Two Council Members – four-year terms
Location for Voting Woodbury Lutheran Church Oak Hill
9050 60th Street N, Stillwater, MN
Kim Points, Administrator/Clerk
Published two times in the White Bear Press on October 9 and 16, 2024.
CITY OF MAHTOMEDI
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TO DISCUSS THE PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN FOR 2025-2029
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Mahtomedi will hold a public hearing on Monday, November 4, 2024, 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, to consider the proposed Capital Improvement Plan for 2025-2029. The CIP will be available for viewing on the City’s website at mn.us. Anyone having an interest in this matter is invited to attend this meeting.
cil 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 West, was carried unanimously on October 8, 2024. Dan Louismet, Mayor ATTEST: Lindy Crawford, City Manager
Published one time in the White Bear Press on October 16, 2024.
CITY OF WILLERNIE
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is given that the City of Willernie will conduct a public demonstration of the DS200 tabulating equipment on October 24, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. at
Published one time in the White Bear Press on October 16, 2024.
CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The City of White Bear Lake Planning Commission will hold a public hearing in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 4701 Highway 61, White Bear Lake, Minnesota on Monday, October 28, 2024 beginning at 7:00 p.m. to hear and make a recommendation to the City Council on the following requ
A. Case No. 24-13-Z: Bear Lake City Code, Article XIII - Zoning Code to establish zoning standards for cannabis related businesses.
Unless continued by the Planning Commission, Case No. 24-13-Z will be heard by the City Council on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. This case requires a second meeting before the City Council, which is scheduled for November 26, 2024.
Comments may be presented at the public hearing or filed with the Planning Department until 12:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the hearing in order to be included in the packets. Each response will be considered before the Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the City Council. If there are questions concerning this application, please call the City’s Planning Department at (651) 429-8561.
Lindy Crawford, City Manager
Published one time in the White Bear Press on October 16, 2024.
CITY OF GRANT GENERAL ELECTION
NOVEMBER 5. 2024
Notice is Hereby Given, that the General Election will be held in the City of Grant on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, for the purpose of electing candidates for the following offices: Mayor – four-year term
Published one time in the White Bear Press on October 16, 2024.
CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE TITLE AND SUMMARY APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 24-10-2075
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE BY ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 1002 REGARDING ALCOHOL
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 Publish the approved summary language once in the City’s official news paper;
2. Have available for inspection during regular office hours a copy of the entire Ordinance;
3. Place a copy of the entire Ordinance at the White Bear Lake Branch of the Ramsey County Public Library;
4. Obtain an affidavit of publication of the title and summary from the official newspaper and place it in the City’s ordinance book together with the Ordinance and a copy of this Resolution;
5. Post the Ordinance on the City’s website.
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. 24-10-2075 as listed below:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OFWHITE BEAR LAKE BY ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 1002
REGARDING ALCOHOL
The City Council of the City of White Bear Lake has adopted Ordinance No. 24-10-2075, titled “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE BY ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 1002 REGARDING ALCOHOL.” The ordinance deletes Chapters 1001 and 1002 of the Municipal Code in their entirety and replaces them with a new Chapter 1002 Intoxicating Liquor. The new chapter includes more descriptive definitions and requirements of the various types of licenses, including mandatory accompanying licenses, allowable combinations of licenses and references to respective Minnesota State Statutes. The new chapter is also more detailed in application process, fees, conditions, restrictions, food requirements, penalties and liability insurance requirements. The full text of the ordinance is available for inspection at White Bear Lake City Hall during regular business hours and has been posted to the City’s website. FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of White Bear Lake City Coun-
Published one time in the White Bear Press on October 16, 2024. INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 832 MAHTOMEDI, MINNESOTA
PUBLIC NOTICE OF ELECTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a General Election will be held in Independent School District 832, Mahtomedi Public Schools, in Washington County, Minnesota, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at the polling locations listed below for the purpose of voting for candidates of the offices specified
Former White Bear resident brings personal history back to hometown
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
After moving from White Bear Lake to Washington, Patricia Holton was unsure whether her waterskiing days were over for good. Then, a new discovery led her to bring back a piece of her history to her hometown. Holton says that a fixture of growing up was how often she and her family spent time on the water. “My family’s life and mine was always down by White Bear Lake,” said Holton. “We were always swimming and waterskiing there in the summertime.” Though not a prolific water skier then, Holton was determined to excel. “It took me awhile,” admitted Holton. “My older brother learned it first, but it took me forever. After my younger brother figured it out, I was determined to learn for myself.”
Holton’s water skiing adventures, however, were not to last. After moving to Washington to attend college in 1968, she admittedly found difficulty in bringing her love for the open water to her new home state, including after marrying her husband, Rich. “I had planned to continue,” said Holton. “The problem was that Rich loved fishing, while I still loved to water ski. Finding a boat we could buy to match the two was difficult.” While Holton occasionally skied off friends’ boats, the boat she and Rich owned was not fast enough for that purpose.
It was not until the early 2000s that
received a call from her friend Marcia Gjerde. As the latter cleaned her garage, she also found a pair of White Bear Lake-branded water skis and asked Holton if she wanted them. “My dad originally bought them for me and my siblings to use,” explained Gjerde. “We all learned how to ski on them, and they passed on through each generation, including my cousins, too.”
Holton accepted them and pondered where she could put them up for display. “At the time, I was debating between having them on display at the White Bear Lake Historical Society or somewhere else,” said Holton. “I decided to settle on Tally’s Dockside, because I always loved it there growing up.”
Holton’s love for water skiing was reignited by a discovery in Wallace, Idaho. While there for an accordion festival, Holton discovered and bought a pair of water skis branded with the name of her beloved White Bear Lake. This find was more than just a pair of skis; it was a piece of her past, a connection to her childhood. “I kept them with me for a while,” said Holton. “My kids weren’t interested in
them, and I did not want just to donate it to Goodwill.”
Holton eventually contacted White Bear Country Inn and Rudy’s Redeye Grill owner Bill Foussard, with whom she had connected before moving to Washington, and mailed him the skis to keep.
But Holton’s discoveries did not end there.
In February of this year, Holton
Playful politics: Hansel, Gretel run for office
BY RICKA MCNAUGHTON SPECIAL TO THE PRESS
Whatever the outcome of the November election, history will likely fail to record the political aspirations of two remarkable Minnesota candidates who sought to make a difference on the national stage. That’s partly because these contenders did not actually get out and campaign, apart from having one sign made up for each of them. It is also partly because these candidates are at a loss to articulate their respective platforms or party allegiances. That’s because they are dogs. Namely: Hansel (running for President) and Gretel (running for Congress.) But their campaign did accomplish something of pretty great value in their White Bear Lake neighborhood.
happened. “It was the worst time to try to move into a new community,” she said. However, since Gretel came into her life and the dogs’ signs went up, her connections with neighbors surged -something she appreciates immensely.
Katherine first saw Gretel at last spring’s Dog Days event in downtown White Bear, where you could stroll with your own pets, peruse vendors, and also meet adoptable dogs. “I wasn’t looking for a dog at that time,” Katherine said. But when she went to a local bike shop to get her tire repaired, there sat sibling puppies Hansel and Gretel in a little pen, peering up at her, hoping for a forever home. Katherine said, “I picked up Gretel and I was…done! I immediately started filling out my adoption paperwork.” But wait. What about Hansel?
The unusual political signage featuring photos of each dog got curious neighbors and strangers talking, all political side-taking aside. Warm, spontaneous conversations broke out. Other dog owners and their dogs reached out to say hi. And just like that, a host of new connections and friendships formed. This was an especially welcome turn of events for Gretel’s owner Katherine Kroll.
A native Minnesotan, Katherine moved to her White Bear Lake home five years ago, eventually leaving a corporate job to work as a private consultant from home. And then, COVID
Katherine convinced a family member to adopt him also. The pups are now 8-months-old and the two see each other fairly often.
The political sign thing? “It just started out being a quirky, fun thing to do,” Katherine said, mentioning that relatives in a family printing business leant a hand. “It wasn’t about being left or right or whatever your political beliefs are…I just wanted to take some of the steam out of things,” she said, referring to the volatile, polarized times we live in.
It’s doubtful that Hansel and Gretel have any concern for their legacy as players in national politics. They’re just looking forward to their next playdate together. May they live happily ever after.
Holton and Rich flew to White Bear Lake on Oct. 1, gifting the skis to Tally’s Dockside owners Keith and Jan Dehnert to put up for display. “It’s always fun to have historical items here that show the history of what the city and Tally’s is all about,” said Connor Dehnert, Keith and Jan’s son. “When people look around at all the different things in the building, it helps them enjoy that part of the bar.”
“It’s a huge delight to return and bring these skis where they belong,” added Holton. “White Bear Lake is truly a remarkable place with extraordinary people.”
The skis will be displayed on the inside bar of Tally’s, along with numerous other skis that have been collected over time.
WHITE BEAR LAKE CITY COUNCIL NOTES
• The council approved a rain garden construction contract with Sandstrom Land Management LLC and a grant agreement with the Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO). Earlier this year, the city partnered with VLAWMO and the Ramsey County Soil & Water Conservation Division (SWCD) to design and build five curb-cut rain gardens for landowners. The total cost for the rain gardens is $38,370, which the city will pay 90% of through a cost-share grant with VLAWMO upon completion. The city will accept reimbursement of the grant once finished; the landowners will pay the city the remaining 10% of construction costs.
• The council swore in Isaac Tuma and Mike Sellner to administrative captain and patrol sergeant positions, respectively, with the White Bear Lake Police
Department. Tuma had previously served as the department’s sergeant since 2020, while Sellner had worked as a police detective for the department since 2019.
• The council approved an ordinance amending the municipal code that would adopt a new Chapter 1002 regarding alcohol. Since the ordinance’s first reading at the council’s September 24 meeting, the council has made one minor change. The change modifies the penalty timing if a bar has incurred a second violation during a given period regarding any of the provisions of state law in the ordinance. The new change, which states that a bar will have their license suspended for seven days for their second violation, has been changed from 24 to 18 months if a bar has made a second violation in that time.
Erik Suchy
PHOTOS BY ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Holton gave one pair of skis to White Bear Country Inn and Rudy’s Redeye Grill owner Bill Foussard .
After discovering two pairs of White Bear Lake-branded water skiis, former resident Patricia Holton has decided to bring them back to her hometown for display at Tally’s.
Strong showing of White Bear school pride
Above: Wide receiver Ben Lockwood maintains control of
the first half of the White Bear Lake Homecoming victory over Roseville.
At left: Lincoln Elementary School students accompanied their homecoming parade march with kazoo tunes.
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OBITUARIES
Vivian Sue Foldenaur
May 27, 1967 - October 1, 2024. Vivian Sue Foldenaur, youngest daughter of Darrell and Bonita (Bier) Smith, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, surrounded by family. A woman of faith and a devoted wife, Vivian cherished time with her husband and children. She was an Early Childhood Special Education teacher at Centennial School District and leaves behind an incredible legacy. She is survived by her husband of 28 years, John; children Carly, Jake, and Jackson; sisters Linda (Brad) Foss, Teresa (Joe) Pignato, Diana (Matt) Hedstrom, Dorinda (Forrest) Mote, and Shelley Brackin; sister-in-law Jami (Mike) Wallar; brotherin-law Jeff (Holly) Foldenaur; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Darrell Smith; father-in-law, Jim Foldenaur; brothers-in-law Jerry Mumm and Tim Brackin; and many close friends and family.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024, with visitation at 10 AM and service at 11 AM at Eaglebrook Church, 1100 W Main St, Anoka, MN 55303. Private family interment will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Anoka. Fellowship, food, and drinks will be available from 12 PM to 4 PM at Willy McCoy’s Event Center, 12450 Business Park Blvd. N, Champlin, MN 55316.
Thayle Carol Swanson
Age 87, of White Bear Lake, died Sept. 21, 2024. Memorial celebration October 22 at 1 pm at Redeemer Lutheran Church.
See www.honsafamilyfuneral.com for more information.
OBITUARIES
James Reed Boardman
An amazing storyteller who never met a stranger, passed on October 8, 2024. Visitation gathering at Honsa Family Funeral Home, October 22, 10am-12 noon. Immediately following is a private burial with his family at Fort Snelling with full military honors. For Jim’s entire obituary, visit Honsafamilyfuneral.com.
Patricia (Bahr) Molkenbur
Age 69 of White Bear Lake
Passed away peacefully on October 11, 2024, the end of her courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded in love by her husband, son, daughterin-law, and her best friends – her sisters. A service celebrating Patty’s life will be at 3:00 Sunday, October 20, 2024 at BRADSHAW, 4600 Greenhaven Drive, White Bear, with visitation beginning at 1:00. A luncheon will follow the service.
VFW On The Lake
Thank You Sponsors!
Thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers who made our “Booya by the Lake” event a success! We greatly appreciate your support.
VFW Post 1782 White Bear Lake 4496 Lake Ave. South White Bear Lake
2024 White Bear Area Senior Health Fair
VARIETY OF VENDORS!
Advanced Dermatology 651- 484-2724
Cerentiy Senior Care 651-232-1818
Cub Pharmacy WBT 651-426-5006
The Lodge at White Bear 651-779-9255
The Waters of White Bear Lake 651-313-6440
Twin Cities Pain 952-209-8140
Cardigan Ridge Senior Living 651-484-8484
Canvas Health 651-777-5222
Maple Hill 651-252-3690
651- 429-6172 Blue Cross Blue Shield 651-662-3428 Liberty Oxygen 651-789-7500
Organize Right to Size 651-587-9400
Pine Tree Apple Orchard 651-429-7202 White Bear Senior Center
Harbor Crossing 651-762-6121 Honsa Funeral Home
White Bear Senior Center 651-407-7501 Donatelli’s 651-777-9199
White Bear Foot and Ankle 651-426-3995
SPORTS AND
OUTDOORS
Bears trip Raiders before 4,000 crowd at homecoming
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
After an 0-5 start, things are looking up for White Bear Lake football. The Bears claimed their second straight win, 24-7 over Roseville Area before a huge homecoming crowd Friday evening. They’ll close the regular season at Osseo (2-5) on Thursday.
Tomi Animasaun completed 18 of 22 passes and the Bear defense held firm as they followed up a 24-17 upset of Stillwater with the win over Roseville, which was 3-3 coming in.
“We’ve been doing a lot of really
good things. We just weren’t winning,” coach Ryan Bartlett said. “Last week at Stillwater was huge for us. This week, we were a little nervous at first.”
Over 4,000 fans flocked to the game on a pleasant evening. The massive grandstand in the new stadium was full and many more ringed the field.
“We never could have done that in the old place,” noted Brian Peloquin about the crowd. Students were allowed to storm the field and embrace the players after the game.
The homecoming crowd contributed to the Bears being a little jittery early,
Zephyrs are MEC swim champs, state qualifiers
BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED
Mahtomedi swimmers qualified for state Class 1A true-team by placing second in the Section 4A meet on Friday and Saturday at Simley. The state meet will be held Saturday, starting at
noon, at the University of Minnesota.
The Zephyrs wrapped up the Metro East title with a 7-0 record by defeating South St. Paul 92-84.
Team scores at the sectional were Visitation 873, Mahtomedi 819, Cretin-Derham Hall 633.5, Mounds Park Academy 406 and Simley 302.5.
Abigail Wright won the 50 freestyle (25.04) with Adalyn Miller fourth and Delaney Dumermuth fifth. Wright was second in the 500 free (5:16.41) with Eve Wiebe fifth and Riley Parizek sixth. Mahtomedi’s other strong events were
diving as freshman Shaela Murphy won (342.75 points) with Grace Doebler, Grace Tronrud and Evelyn Suchy placing 5-6-7, and the 100 freestyle with Miller, Sidney Leciejewski, Janeea Chlebeck and Claire Lane placing 3-4-5-7. Leciejewski was third in the 200 free, Parizek third in backstroke, Audrey Carlson fourth in breaststroke and Aria Armstrong fifth in the medley. The 200 freestyle relay was second with Maddie Ruppel, Dumermuth, Miller and Wright.
Bruce Strand
Unbeaten Bears clip Ponies, gain section finals
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
With a three-goal burst late in the game, starting with an “own” goal, White Bear Lake got past Stillwater in the Section 4AAA semifinals. The top-ranked, defending champion Bears (14-0-2) hosted No. 4 East Ridge (13-1-2) in the finals (see results at presspubs.com). With offensive leader Jenna Maloy sidelined due to a foot injury in the conference finale, the Bears battled No. 8 Stillwater to a stalemate for 64 minutes. The two powers had tied 3-3 in conference play.
“Then we got a lot of momentum going,” said John Dierkhising, cocoach with Dave Ashley.
The first goal came with 17:54 left after Grace Weierke steered the ball
into the “mixer” area in front of the net. The Ponies’ outstanding goalie, Reese Elzen, made a diving save, but couldn’t cover the ball, and a moment later it deflected off a defender and into the net.
Weierke, sophomore midfielder, blasted a shot over Elzen with 14:49 left for a 2-0 lead. That was the fifth goal for Weierke, who’s getting more playing time with Maloy sidelined. “You can’t replace Jenna,” Dierkhising said. “But we’re counting on Grace to pick up some of the slack.”
The Bears’ momentum continued as Alyse Oelke fielded a ground-ball corner kick from Katie Koller and lifted the ball over the goalie with 9:14 left. Meanwhile, Bear goalie Chloe Tocko had three saves in the team’s ninth shutout.
the coach said, with unforced fumbles and a missed field goal. “We settled in and made some adjustments,” he said, adding, “We’ve always had real good (fan) support here.”
Animasaun, behind a line providing good protection, was 18-for-22 for 218 yards. Ben Lockwood caught six for 76 yards with a four-yard touchdown. Easton Miles caught five for 81 yards with a 48-yard touchdown. Rithy Sain snagged five for 62 yards, one for 38 yards out-leaping a defender.
With their top backs injured (Porter Cleary and Brian White), the Bears still picked up 115 yards on 29 runs. Nate Tvedt carried 11 times for 37 yards, Animasaun nine for 32 with a five-yard touchdown, and White three for 28 before leaving the game. “We spread the ball around,” Bartlett said. “We have a lot of guys who can make plays.” Ernest Goodwin was 3-for-3 on extra points and made a 27-yard field goal after missing from 26.
The Raiders had 178 rushing yards, mainly by Javon Minor, while passing for just 32 yards. Minor had a 22-yard TD run after a long kick return by Sam Vail, tying the score 7-7. The Raiders didn’t score again. The Bears stopped Raider drives on the 10-yard line twice and they missed short field goals each time.
The Bear defense has turned in two straight solid games, starting with holding Stillwater to three points in the last three quarters. Leaders are linebackers Malik Doumbia (outside) and Levi Arvig (inside), with linemen Braydin Little and Jerold Wright and defensive back Donovan Morris also emerging as stoppers, said Dustin Holman, defensive coordinator. Doumbia logged nine tackles, three sacks and a fumble recovery against Roseville. Also making tackles-for-loss were Lincoln Bacha (two), Logan Gibson and Arvig.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Malik Doumbia
White Bear Lake Football
Malik Doumbia is White Bear Lake’s defensive ringleader and big play guy at outside linebacker and sometimes at safety. Lean, swift and hard-hitting, the 6-foot, 175-pound Doumbia has made 30 tackles (13 solo), eight tackles for loss, three QB sacks, nine quarterback hurries, three fumble recoveries and one interception. “He’s kind of a general out there,” said coach Ryan Bartlett about Doumbia’s field leadership. Dustin Holman, defensive coordinator, added that Doumbia is a “constant example” showing others how to execute plays, and “has a deep understanding on how the defense fits together.”
This Week In SPORTS
ZEPHYRS SCOREBOARD CROSS COUNTRY
Coming up: Wednesday, Oct. 23: Section 4AA at Highland Golf Course, St. Paul FOOTBALL
• Record: 0-4 conference, 1-6 overall
• Coming up: Wednesday: Spring Lake Park, 7 p.m.
SOCCER, GIRLS
Record: 7-0 conference, 15-2-1 overall Coming up: Oct. 22-24: state first round if Zephyrs win
SWIMMING
Record:
7-0 conference, 7-0 overall
Coming up:
Saturday: state Class 1A true-team, University of Minnesota, noon
VOLLEYBALL
• Record: 6-0 conference, 21-4 overall
Coming up: Thursday, Oct. 24: Section 4AA, TBA
BEARS SCOREBOARD
CROSS COUNTRY
• Coming up: Wednesday, Oct. 23: Section 4AAA at Highland Park Golf Course, Sr. Paul
FOOTBALL
• Record: 1-4 conference, 2-5 overall
• Coming up: Thursday: at Osseo, 7 p.m.
SOCCER, BOYS
• Results last week: Section 4AA Two Rivers 4, Bears 0
• Record: Record 4-3-2 conference, 7-6-4 overall (final)
SOCCER, GIRLS
• Record: 8-0-1 conference, 140-1 overall
• Coming up: Oct. 22-24: state first round if Bears win
SWIMMING
Results last week: Irondale 106, Bears 80 Bears 5th of 5 teams in Section 4AA trueteam
• Results last week: Bears def. Irondale 25-15, 25-14, 26-24
Stillwater def. Bears 25-19, 25-15, 25-21
Record: 2-6 conference, 16-11 overall
• Coming up: Tuesday, Oct. 22: Section 4AAAA, TBA
Malik Doumbia
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Tomi Animasaun launched a pass behind blockers including Charlie Racine (15) and Matt Anderson (65).
Shaela Murphy won diving at the true-team sectional.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
The Bear starters, and injured star Jenna Maloy, celebrated at the final horn of the 3-0 win over Stillwater. 18
BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS
Zephyr girls win conference title
Mahtomedi girls soccer has captured their
title and needs one more win to reach the state tournament.
The Zephyrs, 15-2-1 and ranked No. 3 in Class 2A, finished 7-0 in the Metro East beating Two Rivers 9-0. They lost to Class 3A’s No. 3 East Ridge 2-0 on Oct. 5.
In Section 4AA, the Zephyrs cruised to a win against North St. Paul 11-0 and St. Anthony 10-0, and hosted Totino-Grace on Tuesday with a state
ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS
FOOTBALL
Robbinsdale Armstrong (7-0) thumped Mahtomedi 62-34, rushing for 364 yards and passing for 264. For Mahtomedi (1-6), Connor Finn threw TD passes to Joey Pipes from 45 yards and Jacob Sokoll from three yards. Finn scored the other three TD’s from two yards and one yard (twice).
BOYS SOCCER
Mahtomedi’s strong season ended last week with a section semifinal loss to St. Paul Paul Como Park 3-2 after they opened with a 12-0 win over St. Paul Johnson. The Zephyrs were 124-1 overall. Mason Kipp notched four goals, Riley Burke three and Weston Gahm two against Johnson. Kipp and Gavin Maas scored against Como Park. Alle Bagula tallied two for Como (12-4-2). Kipp led the Zephyrs with 22 goals in 16 games.
TENNIS
Mahtomedi’s season ended at Section 4AA individuals with two entrants reaching the third of five rounds. In singles, Alayna Bartylla beat opponents from Totino-Grace and Centennial, then lost to McKenna Foley of Hill-Murray. In doubles,
trip on the line (see results online at presspubs.com.)
The 21 goals came from 13 players: Aynslea Ulschmid (four), Rose Prescott (two), Adalyn Beulke (two), Allie Rippentrop (two), Elise Aflakpi (two), Anneliese Ulschmid (two), and Olivia Thiele, Indra Ramaley, Faith Peper, Adalyn Bjorkman, Emily Muetzel, Sophia Peer, and Kennadee Cummins.
Bruce Strand
Mallory Langer/Katherine Smith beat teams from Stillwater and Spring Lake Park, then lost to Mounds View’s Shae Crockarell/Avery Schifsky. Lily Carlson won against Fridley and lost to Centennial.
CROSS COUNTRY
The Mahtomedi boys won a threeteam meet hosted by St. Cloud State, led by Matthew Johnson, Evan Carion and Matthew Studenski placing 1-2-3. The Zephyr girls placed third of four teams, led by Vanessa Rogosheske in seventh.
VOLLEYBALL
Mahtomedi, 21-4 and ranked No. 8 in Class 3A, was runner-up in a BenildeSt. Margaret’s tournament, defeating DeLaSalle, St. Cloud Cathedral and Hill-Murray before losing in the finals to the host team. Earlier in the week, the Zephyrs lost to St. Louis Park and beat St. Anthony Village and Tartan. Attack leaders are Silvie Graetzer and Kaili Malvey, with sets from Ashley Moeller and Caitlin Glaser. Louisa Tarnowski and Claire Crothers are serving and digging leaders.
Bruce Strand
Bear netters halted by Stillwater
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
White Bear Lake tennis’s excellent dual meet season ended with an upset loss to Stillwater 4-3 in the Section 4AA semifinals. The No. 2 seeded Bears finished 14-4 and had won 12 straight matches, including 5-2 over the Ponies in conference.
In individual competition, Martina Chacarro and the tandem of Tally Domschot/Ellia Groneberg each won three matches to advance to the final four.
Stillwater beat Groneberg and Domschot, who have had standout seasons, at 1-2 singles, along with Elara Kruse at 4-singles and Mallory Peltier/Maddie Belisle at 1-doubles. The Bears got wins from
Chacarro, Josie Guidinger/Sophie Menier and Isabel St. John/Lisa Gritzmacher. The Ponies made a couple changes in their lineup that worked. “We just came up a little short, unfortunately,” Bear coach Marla Menne said.
In individuals, Chacarro, the Bears’ No. 3. beat Lauren Klein, Centennial’s third-year No. 1, by 7-5, 6-4, after getting past Columbia Heights and Totino-Grace entrants. She faced Hill-Murray in the semi’s. Groneberg/Domschot, senior captains, defeated tandems from St. Anthony, Centennial and TotinoGrace. They faced Mounds View in the semi’s. Kruse and Peltier/ Belisle each won once, then lost. See results of Monday’s individual semifinals at presspubs.com
June Sinnett
Aug. 5, 1939 to Oct. 12, 2021
So year three done. Lots of changes this year! Sold the house to move into 55+ apartment. Hope you are not too mad at me for that. Getting left knee replaced in December so I can walk in Ireland and Pilsen. Maybe dance a tune or two? Two trips or one long one. Ideas? Still miss our talks and trips! My Love Always and All Ways....... Tom
More than 60 classmates from White Bear Lake High School’s Class of 1994 gathered at the Manitou Bar & Kitchen Event Center on Saturday. Alumni came from California, Tennessee, Washington DC and even Germany.
