Press Publications has helped deliver letters to Santa. Each year, Press Publications asks children to drop off their letters to Santa in the big red mailbox outside of the office in White Bear Lake, or to mail them in.
Some of the desired items this year included: a fart gun, cotton candy and size 6 shoes. See pages 12 and 13 for more Santa letters. And be sure to read even more Santa letters online at presspubs. com.
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Come 2025, residents of White Bear Lake will see a 14.85% increase in the city’s property tax levy.
“Staff has prepared a budget which aligns with the strategic plan and the needs of the community as well as maintains excellent financial planning practices,” said City Manager Lindy Crawford. She added if there was no change to market values, the 14.85% increase would be an 11.22% increase.
The 2025 general fund budget will be $19,906,468, which represents an increase of $552,128 (or 2.81%) from 2024. Some notable changes in revenues include: the city will no longer receive American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) aid or public safety local government aid (LGA); the city received a grant from the Minnesota DNR for removal of emerald ash borer; and the city’s contribution for a school resources officer
SEE LEVY, PAGE 11
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
White Bear Lake Area School District families now have an extra option when signing up their children for kindergarten: Spanish Dual Immersion.
Beginning in fall 2025, Otter Lake Elementary and Matoska International will each have three kindergarten classrooms in which only Spanish will be spoken for half of the day. English will still be spoken for the other half, hence the term “dual immersion.” Bussing will be available districtwide to interested families. Additionally, residents of ISD 624 receive early access when signing their children up. District enrollment is available now;
When: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields, 15601 Hudson Road N., Afton
Details: Roaring bonfire, guided night hikes, live music, prairie labyrinth and cookies and cider in a warming tent.
Contact: belwin.org
CANDLELIGHT TOUR AT THE FILLEBROWN HOUSE
When: 6 & 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19
Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Avenue, White Bear Lake Details: Guided tour of the local landmark as it’s decorated for the holidays. Cocoa and cookies served. See website for ticket information. Contact: 651-407-5327 or whitebearhistory.org
CHRISTMAS WITH CENTURY JAZZ ENSEMBLE AND DEBBIE O’KEEFE
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Avenue
Details: Big Band ensemble performs renditions of favorite Christmas classics, with guers appearances and solos. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
THE OK FACTOR: HAVE YOURSELF AN OK CHRISTMAS
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Avenue
Details: Celebrate with the classical crossover duo as they celebrate the holidays with traditional carols, seasonal songs, and original versions of holiday favorites. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
• The board is bidding farewell to retiring member Dr. Marge Newmaster. For Newmaster, this marks the close of over 50 years of service to ISD 624, largely serving in the German department or the media center. Board Chair Jessica Ellison estimated that Newmaster encountered over 30,000 students in her time and that the pages of the books all the students read, if laid end to end, would likely reach from White Bear Lake to Kansas City and back. Newmaster commented that serving on the board has been an honor and an inspiration. She also expressed
gratitude to the staff for work done to support the board’s duties. “To see the full breadth and depth of all the efforts … everybody puts in to create an education for students that fits them and prepares them for the future—I’m really proud of this district and happy to be a part of it for so many years.” Addressing the audience, Newmaster concluded, “Read a book.”
• The school board will consider four policies for a second reading next month. The policy committee brings these items to the board twice to ensure proper language
SANTA’S TRAIN SHOP
When: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Minnesota Transportation Museum, 193 Pennsylvania Avenue E., St. Paul
Details: Ride on a caboose, take a photo with Santa and explore the Christmas Lego Land. Guided tours, museum exhibit, food and beverages, entertainment, kids play area and gift shop. Tickets online.
Contact: trainride.org/santa.
VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD PROGRAM
When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
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
DON IRWIN: A STEINWAY HOLIDAY
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Avenue
Details: Award-winning pianist performs on Lakeshore’s resident piano. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
and approval. Among these policies are “School Weapons Policy” and “Hazing Prohibition.” The changes are largely punctuation based, though the hazing prohibition policy will no longer employ Saturday School as an action against those who participate in hazing.
• Four policies have received final approval from the board. These policies include “Tobacco-Free Environment and Vaping Awareness,” “Public Data Requests” and “Waste Reduction and Recycling.” The changes are largely punctuation based, though the tobacco policy
will now include closely supervised cultural exceptions for traditional or spiritual observances.
The White Bear Lake Area School Board next meets at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, for its monthly regular meeting. Attend at 4855 Bloom Ave. or livestream the meeting from isd624. org/about/school-board/meetingmaterials.
Logan Gion
Curran elected to serve as assistant
The Minnesota House DFL Caucus has elected state Representative Brion Curran (DFL – White Bear Lake) as an assistant DFL leader during the 2025-2026 Legislative Biennium. They will join Speaker-designate Melissa Hortman in leading the House DFL on the House floor and in communities across Minnesota.
“I am honored to have the trust of my colleagues to serve in this leadership role and help pass a
Lisa Beecroft will be closing her business, Beecroft Marketing & Events LLC, in the
budget that improves Minnesotans’ lives,” said Rep. Curran. “Our DFL leadership team is ready to reach across the aisle during this historic House tie and deliver results for our communities.” Rep. Curran is serving their second term in the Minnesota House, representing District 36B, which includes White Bear Lake, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Township, Gem Lake and Birchwood Village. They will also serve on the Environment, Human Services and Judiciary committees. The 2025 legislative session convenes on Jan. 14 at noon.
coming months. Beecroft Marketing has collaborated with more than 50 clients on events, marketing campaigns, websites and projects, including Marketfest in White Bear Lake. Beecroft Marketing will fulfill
Lonny Stormo has been selected to serve as the new district governor for Rotary District 5960 for 2027-2028. (There are 64 clubs in the District 5960.) Stormo currently serves as the team lead for public image and hails from the Stillwater Sunrise Rotary Club. He has been a Rotarian since 2016. He also served as president of the Stillwater Sunrise Club from 2022 to 2023 and has remained active in district grants at the club level. Stormo is married to Janet Stormo, a fellow Rotarian who is actively involved in supporting club projects and activities.
existing contracts and will continue to offer consulting services upon request.
Beecroft has accepted a senior marketing and communications role at the University of Minnesota's School of Music.
Icannot believe that 2024 is almost over. It feels like only two short months ago I was gathering articles, snippets and photos for the “2024 Year in Review” special section to run in the Shoreview Press. In the last year, a lot has happened: I started graduate school, my sister got engaged and I reached my goal of reading 27 books. I read close to 60, almost double what I had intended.
Last December, I wrote about Christmas traditions that my family has latched onto over the years. Those traditions still stand strong. On top of our traditions, we are trying new things to incorporate into our routine. Last year, my mom bought us all paint by the numbers to do on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. My dad and sister painted a moose, my mom painted a Christmas tree and my sister’s fiancée created a winter bird landscape. Of course, I painted a girl holding a large stack of books. My sister planned a bunch of odd winter-themed games for us to play leading up to opening our presents. It was a very eventful, and busy, Holiday season. We even did a Secret Santa among the five of us.
Currently, I am in the process of helping my sister plan her wedding. It is so exciting to say that. She is getting married in less than year and her venue is absolutely beautiful. I am not heavily involved in the planning process, but my sister is always sending me things here and there on social media about ideas for her special day. I like to say I am her “wedding advisor” even though I do not know much about wedding planning.
Now time to talk about one of my favorite subjects: books. Every year, I make a reading goal for myself. I try to focus on reading a book series every year, one year I read the whole Harry Potter series in one month. On top of that, I chose a genre to read more of. In the past, I have focused on reading more creative nonfiction novels or self-help books. And lastly, I set a number of books I want to read. Last year, I set my goal for 20 books, which I easily surpassed. The same with this year.
Most of my reading gets done in the summer and over the holidays. During the summer, I read about two to three books in a single week. In January, which is when I have a month off of school, I can consume anywhere from five to seven books. If you have any book recommendations, please do not hesitate to send them to me. I love when family, friends and readers recommend books to me. I will read everything and anything.
For next year, I will have to increase the number of books I read by a landslide. I am going to try and tackle the “Game of Thrones” series by George R.R. Martins. One of my favorite television shows is “House of Dragon,” so it only seems fitting. Another trilogy I want to tackle is called “Prelude to Dune,” which covers the backgrounds of the Dune characters leading up to the universe’s main plotline.
I hope everyone has a great holiday season. May it be merry and bright!
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Shoreview Press. She can be reached at 651-407-1226 or shoreviewnews@presspubs.com.
I’m guessing that by this time in the holiday season, most of us have been asked that age-old question that we have to face every year: What do you want for Christmas?
We often pose that question to children, even the very youngest children. It can be a hard one. It requires us to make choices – to define our likes and dislikes. It requires us to determine our priorities – we can’t ask for everything after all.
Bill Eaves
Many children have to face that question for the first time when they go to visit Santa Claus.
And as much as we grown-ups like to see a child sitting on Santa’s lap, that can be a frightening experience for children, no doubt in part because they are confronted with that question.
My parents told me that I
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never had a good answer to that question. They would ask me in order to plan their own Christmas shopping, of course. But they would also ask me – and try to help me prepare – before that visit to Santa Claus when he would ask me. And even then, I never really had much of an answer. Talking to Santa wasn’t a frightening experience for me at all. I was happy to sit there and have a chat with the guy in red, but I guess I usually had other things on my mind to talk about besides Christmas presents.
What do you want for Christmas? What do we want as a society or a world? What do we need? What are we hoping for?
On Christmas Eve, my faith community will be lighting candles and singing carols of praise for the birth of Jesus, the coming of Love in the form of a baby. And as we do, we will join people everywhere to offer up our greatest hopes. Maybe we will be asking God to take away a burden that we’ve been carrying. Maybe we’re hoping for some roadblock in our lives to be
finally unblocked. Maybe we’re wishing more than anything that we could give up the bad habits or the destructive mindsets that are ruining us. Maybe we’re longing for the courage we need to take a step in a new direction or to have a difficult conversation that we have put off for too long. Maybe we’re longing for God to disrupt or dismantle the systems and patterns of this world and give us all a fresh start.
If you’re still hoping – and even if you’re not sure exactly what you need – then I’ve got good news for you: You’re ready for Christmas. You may just be ready to receive the gift that is promised in the coming of this baby, the one who shows us that we can’t make it on our own. Our greatest wish is to look up at the stars and angels and find our way to the manger where those who hope always to find a welcome.
at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.
• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.
• All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
The dog beach is a local gem
My husband, son and black Lab moved to Dellwood about a year ago. We were so surprised and pleased to discover the dog beach in White Bear Lake!
We eschew dog parks in general, finding them overcrowded.
Each summer evening when we have brought Finn to the WBL beach, we have found no more than five to 10 dogs and their owners, romping joyfully in the shallow water. We’ve had lovely conversations with fellow owners, watching the friendly dogs play together.
We’ve never had a negative experience at all — and it appears that all owners are respectful of cleaning up after their pets.
The dog beach brings us into town, and after a stop there we tend to wander the streets in
search of gelato, coffee or an outdoor drink. We see the dog beach as a wonderful asset to WBL, providing a safe, enjoyable spot to meet others and a good excuse to patronize the local establishments.
Elaine Delavy Dellwood
My wife and I sent our three children through the White Bear Lake school system and were well pleased. At Thanksgiving I asked our granddaughter, a junior at WBL, how she liked the new building. She responded, "everything is fine, except I hate the shared coed bathrooms." I asked how the other students felt about this. She responded, "almost ALL of the students hate it and think it is stupid.”
I hope a few decisionmaker adults are not
Starting next year, the city of Mahtomedi will increase its electric vehicle (EV) charging rate from 17 cents to 20 cents per kilowatt hour for the use of its EV chargers. Since 2022, the city has had two EV charging stations. One ZEFNET
ruining the high school experience for our youth.
John Heller North St. Paul
In a recent article about the White Bear Lake dog beach, the reporter mentioned the addition of the little floating barrier that was added. It was noted that in the shallow water, the dogs were able to hop over the barrier. As the water level goes down, as we often see, the dogs will simply walk over the barrier. What wasn't mentioned, from my understanding, was that the city spent $8,000 on that little floater. In these days of rising property taxes, I think it is important to reveal how much money is being spent on things being discussed.
Scott Lingle White Bear Lake
Level 2 single port wall mount 7.7 kw charging station is located on the east side of Mahtomedi City Hall. The second is a ZEFNET dual port 15.4 kw per plug charging station at Veterans Memorial Park.
To use the chargers, users must download the ZEFNET App. For more information, visit www.zefenergy. com.
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The new gymnasium at White Bear Lake’s new high school was officially dedicated as Galvin Court with a ceremony honoring Jim Galvin prior to the varsity boys basketball game against Forest Lake. Galvin coached the Bears to a 52-0 record and consecutive state championships in 1984 and 1985. He was head coach from 1972 to 1998.
Speakers were superintendent Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak, former coach Brian Leonard (Galvin’s assistant and successor), Joe Regnier (representing Galvin’s players) and Galvin himself. A video with scenes from the two state tournaments, including interviews with Galvin, was shown.
The large crowd for the event included 31
former players and 10 members of Galvin’s family, each group assembling for photos on the court. Among the players was Galvin’s son Jim, Mounds View activities director, who wore his old hoodie with BEARS 52-0 on the back.
After the ceremony, the Bear boys won their first game on Galvin Court, 68-55 over Forest Lake.
“Jim Galvin was one of the first community members I met when I started working for the school district 11 years ago, and I could immediately tell there was something special about him,” said Dr. Kazmierczak. “As I got to know him, it became clear that Mr. Galvin is a living legend. He would probably not prefer that description
After the dedication ceremony for Gavin Court, the White Bear Lake boys won their first game in their new home, 68-55 over Forest Lake. The Bears (1-2) scored the first 14 points of the game. Colin Piper led with 30 points and 24 rebounds. John Johnson added nine points, Korey Raheem eight and Rithy Sain seven for the Bears (1-2). Raheem made six assists, Tyler Allshouse four and Piper three. The Bears lost to East Ridge 91-57 with Cedric Tomes drilling 10 points for the Raptors. Piper had 15 for the Bears.
Piper
White Bear Lake Basketball December 18, 2024
Colin Piper powered White Bear Lake to a 68-55 win over Forest Lake on Friday night as the 6-foot-7 junior scored 30 points, grabbed 24 rebounds, made three assists and blocked two shots. Piper sank 11 and 15 points in the first two games. He averaged 11 points as a sophomore. “Colin’s potential is undeniable,” said coach Aaron Turner, citing his tenacity, passion to improve, and skills. “His best skill is rebounding, where he consistently dominates on both ends.” Piper has “a great finishing touch with both hands” and can hit from mid and long range, too. “We are excited to watch him grow and excel over the next two seasons.”
4457 White Bear Parkway, Ste B, White Bear, MN 55110 651-426-5254 info@4seasonsairwbl.com
given his humble nature, but it is very accurate.”
The superintendent said his recommendation to the school board to name the new arena after Galvin was “the most universally supported” that he ever made.
Regnier, a star of the two state championships teams, had several anecdotes, including one of Galvin’s devising a new “wheel” play before the second championship season. They practiced it almost every day, but never used it in a game until Galvin called for it in the state finals against Minneapolis North. “And we scored eight straight points.”
Another great memory of playing for Galvin, Regnier said, was “two schools who had despised each other” coming together as one and uniting the community.
Leonard said he
was elated to have the new arena named after Galvin because it would ensure that the community “would always remember” these two basketball seasons, forty years ago now, as a shining era in the community. Galvin said with a wink he’s very proud “that this beautiful place bears my name.” He thanked the school for staging this event, the coaches at all levels of basketball that fed the program over the years, his very supportive wife Leanne and the rest of his family, and especially his players. Members of the state championship teams were seated behind him with ten family members. He asked all the other former players in attendance to stand up and be recognized.
Galvin told the Press Dr. Kazmierczak invited him to come look at the gymnasium
White Bear Lake defeated Mounds View 7-1 and East Ridge 3-0, both at home, improving to 4-1-1. Against Mounds View (1-7), Nash Roed netted three straight goals in the second and third periods. Blake Ecklerle had two goals (one short-handed) and Nathaniel Celski and Jack Stanius one each. Leo Gabriel made 11 saves. The Bears outshot East Ridge 67-11, with Raptor goalie Elias Tomoska making 64 saves. Stanius, Hunter Doroff and Tyler Leland each got one past him. Riley Helmberger was in goal for the shutout. In the Bears 1-1 tie against No. 8 ranked Wayzata, Stanius had the goal and Gabriel made 22 saves.
White Bear Lake (3-4) lost a pair of conference games last week. East Ridge beat the Bears 56-40. Elise Dieterle notched 14 points and Abby O’Brien 12 for White Bear Lake (3-3). Forest Lake clipped Bears 54-47, led by Kendal Damon with 17 points. Dieterle had 18 points and Addison Post 13 for the Bears.
White Bear Lake outscored
in late summer while it was still under construction, and the superintendent slipped this into the conversation: “I think we're are going to name the gym after you. What do you think about that?” Galvin said he was “caught off guard” and felt very honored. “I told him, I was just doing my job, a job I loved.”
Galvin, 82, who was a math teacher, stayed in the game by coaching his grandchildren’s teams and hosting an annual camp for kids in kindergarten through second grade. He frequently attends Bears boys and girls basketball games, along with volleyball, where his granddaughter Brady Galvin Keeling was a captain this fall. “So she played on the Galvin Court.”
Woodbury 134.775 to 130.050, improving to 2-0. Addy Mueller won all-around (34.575) with Amelia Ahrens second (34.225) and Josie Mlejnek fourth (32.85). Mueller won bars (8.65) and beam (8.725) and was second on vault (8.90). Ahrens won vault (9.20) and was second on bars (8.65). Mlejnek was second on floor (9.05) and third on bars (8.125). Grace Mueller was second on beam (8.075).
The Bears placed 11th of 15 teams in the Brainerd tournament. Christian Carlson placed fourth at 133, winning three of five matches, including a pin, tech fall, and a 1-0 loss. Noah Ludwig placed fifth at 139, winning four of six with two pins. Samuel Mortenson placed fifth at 160, winning three of five.
White Bear Lake scrapped to a 1-1 tie with Roseville/Mahtomedi as Bears goalie Macie Marston was credited with 56 saves. Amanda Smythe scored the Bears goal with an assist by Lyla Beck. The Bears are 2-7-1.
Bruce Strand
Mahtomedi scored in the 90’s twice last week, defeating Chisago Lakes 9258 and New Life Academy 93-49. The Zephyrs (3-1) had five double-digit scorers against Chisago Lakes as Hank Roelofs and Mark Graff sank 18 points each, Willie Roelofs 17, Noah Carlson 12 and Kellen Johnson 10.
Mahtomedi is 3-5-1 after winning two of three games last week. The Zephyrs blanked Tartan 4-0, outshooting the Titans 40-16. Ryan Lipovetz netted two goals and Will Seevers and Devin O’Donnell one each. Brock Gutterman made two assists. Jackson Chesak had 16 saves for the shutout. In a northern trip, the Zephyrs beat Warroad 4-0 and lost to East Grand Forks 3-1. Scoring against Warroad were Devin O’Donnell (two), Ryker Dunbar and Mac Appert. Seevers made two assists. Wes Strub saved 24 shots. Seevers had the goal against EGF, on a power play. The Green Wave hit two power play goals.
Roseville/Mahtomedi (5-3-1) beat North Wright County 4-1 with goals by Sophie Martin, Addison Andre, Rylee Bogren and Olivia Martin. Lily Peterfeso saved 20 of 21 shots. The Raiders skated to a 1-1 tie against White Bear Lake. Megan Packer had the goal.
Mahtomedi was 4-0 after defeating Simley 75-30, then absorbed their first loss, against Orono 71-51. Against Simley, Anna Greene sank 23 points, Presley Albers 14, Sarah Poepard nine, Emily Muetzel eight, Berkley Blaisdell eight, Grace Prose seven and Ava Sheppeck five. Greene had 21 and Prose 12 at Orono.
Mahtomedi outscored North St. Paul 131.9 to 111.4. Margo Bruner scored 33.075 and Lucy Otto 32.175. Otto won vault (8.65) followed by Addison Briske (8.575), Keely Bohm (8.475) and Bruner (8.35). Cassia Hartmann won bars (8.60) followed by Grace Tonrud (8.20) and Bruner (7.925). Tonrud won beam (8.65), followed by Addi Eitel (8.45), Bruner (8.375) and Otto (7.875). Bruner won floor (8.425) followed by Otto (8.35), Eitel (7.95) and Bohm (7.65).
At the Andover Invitational, top-ranked Evan McGuire was 215-pound champion with three technical falls. He beat Class 3A’s No. 2 ranked Ethan Swenson of Mounds View 18-3 in the finals. Aidan Boex was third at 172. Aidan Carlson was third at 127. Placing sixth were Samuel White at 160 and Henry Johnson at 152. Mahtomedi placed sixth of 10 teams. The Zephyrs lost dual meets to South St. Paul 40-31 and Hastings 57-17. Winning against Hastings (No. 8 in Class 3A) were Carlson (8-2), Boex (8-3) and McGuire (11-0).
Shelby McFetridge of the Zephyrs won her division with three quick pins (in 18, 42, and 15 seconds) at Andover. Her record is 8-2. Evie Karle (8-3) placed second in her division.
Bruce Strand
The Mahtomedi High School Girls Basketball program will be celebrating its 50th anniversary, marking the start of its first season in 1974. All alumni players and past coaches are invited to join the celebration at the home game on Friday, Jan. 3, where 50 years of the program will be honored. Don't miss this special event to reconnect and celebrate the history of Mahtomedi Girls Basketball.
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Debt service payments, especially from long-term facilities maintenance (LTFM), increased by $4.6 million. On top of that, the district’s funding needs increased by $1.8 million. These were the numbers Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald gave during the end-of-year budget presentation to the ISD 624 school board.
While the debt service number is directly tied back to the district’s 2019 bond referendum, Wald gave two major reasons for the levy increase: a state funding gap for special education and state revenue formulas that have not kept up with inflation.
First, the state of Minnesota mandates services for special education. The state has underfunded those required programs by $726 million in the 2023 fiscal year, district officials say.
In his end-of-year budget presentation to the ISD 624 school board, Wald said, “These are important services to provide, and we all believe strongly in providing the services. But the state has not kept up with its promise of funding.” Where do schools make up the difference? By siphoning money from the district’s general fund, a transfer known as “cross-subsidy.”
The 2024-25 district budget expenditures have been set at $143,568, 577. The above chart breaks down where those expenses are going by program.
Wald and Director of Finance
Andi Johnson also said that the state’s general education revenue formula is not keeping pace with inflation. This has been an ongoing issue since 2002. Currently, the state allows the school roughly $7,300 per student enrolled in the district. To have the same buying power that ISD 624 had 20 years ago, the
state would have to allow $8,700 per student. Wald said, “This underfunding is a significant issue, and it’s really put pressure on school districts to rely on local property taxes in the form of operating referendums.”
The general fund budget for the 2024-2025 school year is $143.5 million. Because the school year is six months out of sync with
city and county budget cycles, these operating referendums are passed in June. Therefore, taxes payable in 2025 will be for the school year 2025-2026. Salaries and employee benefits make up 79% of this budget. “This is to be expected in a human resourcesheavy industry like education,” Wald noted. He also stressed that a change in tax levy does not
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
LANNY & KAREN DAHLMAN
MICHELE FISCHER
DAVID SCHOLZ
LUTHER DALE
ERNEST & LISA OLSON
addition to our
at presspubs.com
• A Maplewood woman was arrested for DWI followin g a traffic stop at White Bear Avenue and Beam Avenue Dec. 4.
• Property damage was reported in the 2600 block of County Road E Dec. 4.
• A disorderly conduct incident was reported in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Dec. 4.
• Officers investigated a domestic disturbance on St. Regis Drive Dec. 4.
• Identity theft was attempted in the 2600 block of Coumnty Road E Dec. 4.
• Officers responded to a dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Dec. 4.
• An unknown suspect stole a Debra Street resident's identity and enrolled in an Arizona college to get financial aid Dec. 5. The suspect got the aid but never attended classes. No financial loss was incurred by the victim.
• Officers responded to the 3200 block of Monterey Avenue Dec. 6 to assist Ramsey County deputies with an assault with a firearm. WBLPD deployed a drone to assist in searching for one of the suspects.
• A vehicle reportedly drove around a school patrol crossing guard
determine a change in budget.
Case in point: although $6.4 million was initially the projected increase, $3.78 million is the number Wald suggested as the payable 2025 tax levy increase—a 5.7% increase that the board approved. Because the debt service for LTFM increased this year, Wald and Johnson backed off on the LTFM payment in the general fund, reducing the cost by $2.9 million.
“We structure the bond payments, and we try to balance it to keep taxes as level as possible from year to year,” Wald explained.
Looking ahead, Johnson reported that the unassigned fund balance, a “rainy day” account that helps keep the budget stable, is now above the board-recommended 8%. As such, next year’s projected budget is only expected to increase by $800,000.
“Regarding the budget,” Wald concluded, “we’ve had some difficult years with COVID, and we're now in a really stable position … We see some stable years ahead of us financially.”
The board next convenes at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 13, 2025. Attend at 4855 Bloom Ave. or livestream the meeting from isd624.org/about/ school-board/meeting-materials.
in the intersection of Bald Eagle Avenue and Second Street Dec. 6. Officers were unable to identify the driver.
• Officers responded to a noise complaint of students revving their engines in the 5000 block of Bald Eagle Avenue Dec. 6.
• Offciers assisted North St. Paul police with a report of a shooting in the 2000 block of Ninth Avenue Dec. 7. Further investigation determined no one was shot and it is unknown if shots were fired.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4700 block of Clark Avenue Dec. 7.
• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3100 block of McKnight Road Dec. 7.
• A St. Paul woman reportedly knocking on doors in the 2300 block of Crown Hill Court Dec. 8 was located in a vehicle in the 3100 block of Century Avenue and arrested on DWI charges.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2600 block of Country Road E Dec. 8.
• Officers mediated a dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Dec. 8.
• Theft was reported Dec. 9 at a business in the 2600 block of County Road E.
• A person reported missing in the 4600 block of Centerville Road Dec. 9 weas located in Iowa.
2
1-2. The Ladies of the Lake Quilting Society delivered 53 handmade quilts to Gillette Hospital to be distributed to patients over the holidays. Outreach is a large part of the group’s mission statement. — Rene Heimer, contributed
3. Board members and district leaders recognized outgoing board member Marge Newmaster for her more than five decades of commitment and service to White Bear Lake Area Schools Dec. 9. Newmaster began working for WBLAS in 1971 at Lakeaires Elementary in the Media Center. She later moved to different roles at Mariner High School and WBLAHS - North Campus before she was elected to the school board in 2016. — WBLAS, contributed
4. Children get puppy kisses at baby storytime at the White Bear Lake Library Dec. 16. Sara Marie Moore, contributed 5. Oink, oink! White Bear Lake pigs Ozzie and Harriet are here to wish you all a Merry Christmas! — Erik Suchy, Press Publications 6. Lions Bob Schug and Brian Teschendorf are among the 30 Vadnais Heights Lions ringing bells for the Salvation Army this weekend. — Bill Weigel, contributed
open enrollment for children outside the district will begin Jan. 15, 2025.
Last April, the district formed a steering committee to explore immersion programming. At that time, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald cited strong interest from enrolled families, the common use of Spanish in the United States, and higher open enrollment numbers from surrounding communities as the reasons for pursuing a Spanish immersion option. Wald also noted that, although this program may initially receive a higher share of the district budget due to startup costs, Spanish immersion “will not be treated as a favorite child program.”
At a school board work session in October, Steering Committee member Ayan Ibrahim reported that the committee’s research focused on evidenced-based best practices for immersion programs as well as the needs and desires of the community, especially location. “We know
a Spanish dual immersion program is good, but why?” Ibrahim rhetorically asked. Fellow committee member Julian Stanke answered, “Research suggests that bilingualism can boost cognitive functions like problem solving, critical thinking and creativity.”
Wald informed that, from now until August 2025, a Program Design Team is working on instructional curriculum, family engagement and staffing development. Additionally, with each new school year, Otter Lake and Matoska will add another grade level to the program, meaning that middle-school options will be available starting in 2030.
“World languages opportunities have long been an interest in White Bear Lake … We’ve had conversations for a while, and we’re really excited for this opportunity,” said Matoska Principal John Leninger. He stressed that current teachers will be secure in their positions. “This isn’t going to push anybody out,” he said.
School Board Chair Jessica Ellison believes immersion will help students in future careers. “I went overseas for my job last year, and I was the only person there who didn’t speak two, three or four other languages. I think this is a really good path for our students.”
Board Member Angela Thompson, meanwhile, is encouraged by local interest in Spanish heritage. “My grandfather came here when he was 9 from Mexico with his mom and his brother,” Thompson remarked, “And he never taught his language to anybody else in the family. ‘You can’t be that and also be here and be accepted. So, seeing that happen in our district allows students to say, ‘my culture can be my Hispanic culture and my American culture.”
For more information on ISD 624’s Spanish Dual Immersion program, visit www.isd624.org/ academics/immersion.
Lauren Heinsch of Mahtomedi capped a productive college soccer career at University of Northern Iowa by receiving a national honor: College Sports Communications Academic All-America, second team. Heinsch
• Student-centered instruction. We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates, all can achieve.
• More academic opportunities to explore interests, excel and design your future.
• Students are agents and owners of their own learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging — with high expectations for student success.
• Our educators inspire, facilitate, and challenge students, nurturing curiosity and confidence. We provide a window to their future.
• We are transforming learning. Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.
was one of 33 honored in Division I and the first from UNI in their 25 years of women’s soccer. The senior forward notched eight goals for the Panthers (9-6-4) and was named to the All-Missouri Valley Conference first team for the third time. In five seasons, she accumulated 28 goals and nine game-winning goals in 86 games, all team records.
Academically, Heinsch holds a 3.99 cumulative grade-point average, majoring in biology, chemistry and preprofessional medicine. At Mahtomedi, she played on two state championship teams and earned all-state and all-state tournament honors.
Bruce Strand
• E-Newsletter - The Community e-Newsletter is sent out each week, with alternating text and video editions. Text editions cover student and staff successes, school and Community Education offerings, and School Board proceedings. Request to be added to the list by sending an email to us at communications@isd624.org.
• Construction Updates - Find updates about the construction projects happening throughout the district at isd624.org/BuildingOurFuture.
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in White Bear Lake Area Schools increased.
Notable expenditure changes include salary adjustments for employees and a 3% cost of living adjustment; an increase in the cost of employee health insurance benefits; necessary staff training; the addition of personnel; and a Pathways to Policing grant that requires a match.
The 2025 levy reflects a $1,782,000 increase over the 2024 levy. The city’s tax rate will be 30.384, compared to 27.319 in 2024. A median-value home at $334,200 will pay $965.38 in city taxes.
“In per capita collection, we are at the bottom of the list,” Crawford said. According to preliminary levies, Golden Valley is at the top of the list with $1,558 per capita, followed by Hopkins at $1,186 and West St. Paul at $1,127. At the bottom of the list is Fridley at $789, New Brighton at $660, Shoreview at $624 and White Bear Lake at $609.
Resident Brian Hason shared his displeasure with the levy increase. “Every year … our taxes have been going up. The value of our property went up almost 20%, but the city taxes have gone up 36%,” he said. “Every year this continues to keep on going, making it much more unaffordable, not for me, but for the rest of White Bear Lake. It is just not good policy.”
Resident Bob Hagel cautioned the council from increasing the tax levy year after year. “You mentioned it would feel like 11%, but it does not. It feels like 60% …” he said. “Our taxes are going up 26%. That is unrealistic, it is unsustainable.”
Resident Fred Ames said his city taxes were going to increase by 32.7% and his county taxes by 25.7%. “I know things are expensive … inflation is high, everything is expensive, but Good Lord. Enough,” he said.
Council Member Bill Walsh responded and suggested the council consider making some amendments.
“I think this is my ninth year on the council … I think this is the first time we have had people come to a truth in taxation hearing and speak against it,” Walsh said. “This is more feedback than we normally get. It tells me we might have reached a point where we are finally putting some pinch on it for people.”
Council Member Kevin Edberg said he didn’t want to diminish concerns but wanted to provide some context. “For the last 17 years, the average year-overyear increase in property taxes is under 4% in White Bear Lake,” he said. “We have been frugal because our taxes are low.”
Edberg pointed out that from 2007 to 2017, the city did not increase its levy. “In 2016, it was the same as it was in 2007,” he recalled. He added that the main driver of the increase was the city’s investment in public safety. “The community and its demographics are changing. It is having an impact on the number of phone calls people are making for assistance. This
response we are trying to make is a response to what is happening in our community. It is not going to fancy projects,” Edberg explained.
Mayor Dan Louismet said he grappled with the increase quite a bit, but he didn’t see anything that wasn’t necessary. “If there were a marble fountain that I could cut I would do it,” he said. “There is no fat in this budget.”
He added that he thought the council had to move forward with the increase this year, in hopes of “returning to some semblance of reality and sustainability” for 2026.
Walsh suggested an amendment to the levy. “I think we should listen and send that message and just shave it a little.” Walsh suggested shaving 2% off the increase, making it a 12.85% increase instead of 14.85%, a difference of $240,000. Edberg questioned why the amendment was coming up now, as the budget process has been underway for months.
Council Member Heidi Hughes said she was the one who came up with the idea a month and a half ago. “I have asked since the budget came out for options, and there has been nothing,” she said. “I can’t approve the third massive increase in a row … this just continues to grow and grow and grow.”
Council Member Andrea West responded, “For a budget, you have to think about what it is that you are going to cut if you want to cut … Our job is to choose what we are not going to fund. So maybe it is not another firefighter, maybe we are not going to plow as much, maybe we aren’t going to put flowers out. What is it that you want to cut? It has to be something.”
She added, “When we cut something, what we end up doing is putting it down the road, and that’s what happened for those 10 years when we did not increase the tax levy, and so now we are paying for that.”
Ultimately, Walsh’s amendment to reduce the levy by 2% failed on a 2-3 vote (West, Edberg and Steven Engstran voted no). The council voted 3-2 (Walsh and Hughes voted no) to approve the budget and tax levy as recommended by city staff.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Dear Santa I whant a desk and I whant a Fonko Pop collection. I whant takis and I whant V-bucks. And I whant a kiten. And I whant color pastels. And I whant a Greek Myth book. And I whant a N plush from Glich. Then I whant a water proof camera. And I whant movie views for fazbeard and plush. And I whant a X-box and I whant a ruby necklace. And I whant a tv. And I whant a keyboard that lights up. And I whant a bike with no training wheels and I whant a bonnie plush. And I whant sower candy’s in my stoking. And I whant a poster.
From Axel
Dear: Santa, im sorry for, cussing, being rude, its because I just keep getting stresd from my finger. I want a cat for the family. I want the curces plus cfnda and iphone 16. I want diminds from msm. Ill be good. Can I also have my own YouTube channel with coo subscribers.
From pretzel the champion ptc.
From: Ayden
Necratbee 8 plush
Rory Santa, maiteimi, fsonicith eh I would like!
BEYBLAOEX!
PIXEL PET
NERF CROSS BOW!
RCCREEPER!
FART GUN!
GODZILLA SONICS QUI Bobs a spong
Thank you
Dear Santa, Will you please help people who are sick or hurt to feel better and will you also help poor people
get money to buy food for the holidays and have proper clothes for the cold weather. That;s the big thing but other things I would like are a hover bored, cotton candy and a very happy holiday for everyone!From: silas
Dear Santa, I wan an Agility blaster and X box series X console college football 25 X box. Razor scooter and dudes shoes, size 6 T-shirts. Merry Christmas, Santa
Dear Santa, I want a Glitter Girls Bluebell Doll and a Wild Republic Cuddlekins Eco Jumbo Axoloti and a Littlelest Pet Shop Play Set Bitzee Magicals Pet Rainbow Loom Treasure trove and a gumball machine maver I have been super good this year.
Sylvie Arola
Dear Santa for crhist-mass I would like to have 1) Hoverborad - go cart
2) fortnite Vbucks
3) Vidio games
4) pegs for “new bike”
5) mini Stanly 6) phone 7) chrome book for home 8) lap-top
9) personal computer
10) a good Christ mas
11) new friend for rowdy Sincerely, Scotty
Dear Santa I want
1) hover board go cart attachment
2) fortnite vbucks card
3) Dog man big gim begins Book
13.
4) a new freande for rowdy/new dog
Chip is a good elf and really good hider.
From JT to Santa
Dear Santa, I would really like a Barbie airplane and a Barbie Dreamhouse. And a KIDS motorcycle. What I really want are tu-tus and skirts. Love, Junie (Age 4-1/2)
To Santa Mini cavases Easy bake oven Mini stuff but not mini vetsel 3D printer Polaroid camera Viv
Dear Santa, For crismas I would like a Panda stuffy, a watch, a under water camera, a icy machine, a harry potter necklace and a electric scoter and that is it. And by the way how did elfie get in side our house last night? hope you stay warm!
Merry Christmas!
Dear Santa, I hope you come this year! Here is some things I would like . . . Dog man: Bio Jim begins #13 book Hotel Bruce by Ryan T. Higgins Book Dog man and cat kid book Dog man mothering heights book Shredderman #1 by Wendein van Draynen Scarefy squirrel visits the doctor by Melanie Watt Dog man mission impawsible video game on Nintendo switch Thank you and have a merry Christmas Santa!
Miles
Dear Santa, I would like a Barbie suitcase,
Squishmellow, Unicorn squishy Natalie, age 4
Dear Santa, I would like a changing color cars and a not wheels track and a new squishmellow. Love, Eian, age 6
Dear Santa, I really want a Ronaldo soccer jersey for boys. Dolanus remote control transform robot, RC cars contolns, better ies, off button. Technic off-road race buggy buildable car, cowboy boots. Dirt bike, please. Andrew
Dear Santa, I really want a Lego technic Ford Mustang. Seed champions 2023 McLaren, super sport car building kit, a Christmas shirt, please. Love, August Dear Santa, I been good all year. All I want for Christmas is to be with my frend HANK!!
Phil
P.S. Also a whale for tubber time.
Dear Santa, how are you doing? I am good. I want ohora nalis, a pair of flare pants, color of orange, a pack of Squishy. Thank you from Zoey. I am 8. You are the best!
Dear Santa, How are you? I am doing good. For Christmas, I would like anything that is Paw Patrol. Especially anything that has Sky.
Thank you, Amie (3)
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Olivia. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of
White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super good if you could bring me these things this year:
Stuffed Zebra Noisy Cow
Firetruck
Book
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Olivia
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Lucille. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super good if you could bring me these things this year:
Curious George Books
Squish Mallow
Daniel Tiger Legos
Cookie Stampers
Art Kit
Wooden Castle Figurines
Yo-yo
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Lucille
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Finly. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super good if you could bring me these things this year:
Sisu Dragon Raya
Raya
Unicorn Doll
Barbie Doll
Makeup
Vacuum Shop
Remote Control Car - Pink and Purple
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Finly
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus,
My name is Charlie. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super good if you could bring me these things this year:
Hulk
Thor Iron Man
Captain America
Falcon
Legos
Scooter
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Charlie
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! For me.
Dear Santa Claus,
My name is Jensen. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super good if you could bring me these things this year:
New Marble Track
Classic Sonic Classic Knuckles
Classic Amy Squishy Eyeball Squishy Brain
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever! Jensen
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Hunter. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super great if you could bring me these things this year:
Car Truck
Candy Cane Toy
Scooter Train toys
Legos
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Hunter
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! For me.
Dear Santa Claus,
My name is Amelia. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve
been really good and it would be super great if you could bring me these things this year:
Rollerblades
Ice skates
Santa toy
Barbie
Puzzles
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Amelia
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Rowan. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super good if you could bring me these things this year:
White and blue striped skateboard
Legos
Trucks
Spy glass
Dinosaur book
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Rowan
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Audrey. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super good if you could bring me these things this year:
LOL dolls
Sheep that toots
Puppy in a kennel
Magna Tiles
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Audrey
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Ada. I am 5 years old! I live in the great town of Hugo. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super nice if you could bring me these things this year:
Pink Roller Skates
Pink Squish Mallow
Pink Hammock
Barbie
Art Kit
Paint Kit
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Ada
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Kenzie. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really nice and it would be super great if you could bring me these things this year:
New Books - Kitty Cat
New Bike
Princesses
Magna Tiles
Unicorns
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Kenzie
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Addison. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of Hugo. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super nice if you could bring me these things this year: Light up Beast toy (Beauty and the Beast)
Star
Jack in the box
Purple Roller Skates
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Addison
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Reid. I am 5 years old! I live in the great town of Hugo. This year I’ve been really nice and it would be super fun if you could bring me these things this year: Race Track Giant Lego Set
Remote Control Car Science Experiments
Basketball Hoop Piggie and Gerald Books
Glow in the dark things
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Reid
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Will. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of Hugo. This year I’ve been really nice and it would be super great if you could bring me these things this year: Werewolf Costume Monster Truck Sweatshirt that says Monster Jam
Duplos
Legos
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Will
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Elsa. I am 5 years old! I live in the great town of Mahtomedi. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super nice if you could bring me these things this year: Rainbow Rollerskates
Duplos
Trampoline Barbie
Santa Hat
Ring Toss
Snow Globe
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Elsa
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Leo. I am 5 years old! I live in the great town of White Bear Lake. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super nice if you could bring me these things this year:
Electric Scooter
Pet Snake Ninja Turtle Mask
Art Kit
Knee Hockey Stick Squish Mallow Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Leo
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Ethan. I am 4 years old! I live in the great town of Vadnais Heights. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super nice if you could bring me these things this year: Fastest Motor Bike
Toys with batteries
Legos
A little car to drive in
Pet Turtle
Doggie Book
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Ethan
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Dear Santa Claus, My name is Charlie. I am 4 years
old! I live in the great town of Birchwood Village. This year I’ve been really good and it would be super nice if you could bring me these things this year:
Strawberry Mints
Fan
Owl Puzzle
Legos
Thank you! You’re the best Santa ever!
Charlie
P.S. Please tell Mrs. Claus and the elves Hi! for me.
Bera santa, I have been year, this I want for cristmas
More monster trucks
Nerf guns
Kt kats
Monster play set
iPad apple red clngunboa mistury mudders
race car play sets rc
Frum Joey
Dear Santa I have been good this year. This is what I want for Christmas. Every single Minecraft diamond level
N series pinpoint nerf gun
Sonic charaacters
A good gaming computer
Thank you for the presents Santa.
From, Wally
Dear Santa One thing I want for Christmas is a X shot and Legos. I love you.
From: Jakobi
Dear Santa,
What I want for Christmas is, new shoes.
P.S. I hope you can find are house!! Are door is greenish blue.
From, Quinn
Mara Christmas List
Mama Chicken puffed feathers with babies
Lakeshore Learning Clubhouse
Trang Projector
Paintable rocks
Eva’s Christmas List
Purple frog
Moma frog
Dada frog
Purple poopy butt
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE
CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:
Caring Transitions 36119
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
5979 HIGHVIEW PL, SHOREVIEW, MN 55126
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.
NextStage Solutions, LLC
5979 HIGHVIEW PL, SHOREVIEW, MN 55126
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: December 5, 2024
Signed: Dawn L. Etmund
Published two times in the White Bear Press on December 11 and 18, 2024.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:
Gilmore Wealth Management
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
708 Cleveland Ave Suite 200 New Brighton, MN 55112
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.
Adam Lee Gilmore
708 Cleveland Ave Suite 200
New Brighton, 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 perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: November 27, 2024
Signed: Adam Lee Gilmore
Published two times in the White Bear Press on December 11 and 18, 2024.
BROWN’S CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., the Brown’s Creek Watershed District Board of Managers will hold a public hearing to receive comments on a proposed cost-share project with the city of Stillwater to reduce sediment and nutrient loading into Brewer’s Pond by installing a storm sewer separator while replacing an existing corrugated pipe, as well as install a 20-ft deep manhole to eliminate the steep slope of the existing pipe and reduce the speed and force of the water at the outlet.
The project will be constructed by the city of Stillwater and funded through a district-wide ad valorem levy as authorized by Minnesota Statutes chapter 103B in the amount of $25,000, and city of Stillwater in the amount of $100,000. The estimated total cost for the project is $125,000. The project is planned for 2025.
The public hearing will be held at Family Means, 1875 Northwestern Ave, Stillwater, Minnesota.
Debra Sahulka, Secretary, Browns Creek Watershed District Published two times in the White Bear Press on December 18 and 25, 2024.
CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA ORDINANCE 2024-11-01
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 302.055 “LAND DISTURBANCE ACTIVITY STANDARDS”
The City Council of the City of Birchwood Village hereby ordains that section 302.055 “Land Disturbance Activity Standards” is hereby amended in the Municipal Code of the City of Birchwood Village as follows: 302.055 Land Disturbance Activity Standards
2. The following are Specific Standards:
a. Land Use Standards New construction or significant modifications shall be designed and constructed such that, in the opinion of the City Engineer, the construction or modifications do not cause significant adverse effects on adjacent properties (including City property) due to stormwater runoff, including but not limited to erosion, flooding, or damage to structures or landscaping. Calculations for this section shall be based on a 24-hour, 10-year storm event as defined by local meteorological data. Properties lying within or affecting land locked basins (i.e., no outlet) shall also include an evaluation of the potential impacts to surrounding property from a 48 hr – 100 year probability event. This ordinance becomes effective from and after its passage and publication. Passed by the City Council of The City of Birchwood, Minnesota this 10th day of December, 2024. Published one time in the White Bear Press on December 18, 2024.
• Jessica Collete and Amele Amakone now have massage therapist licenses to perform massage therapy at The Carlson Clinic, located at 2120 Second Street, and Sunbear Salon and Medspa, located at 2207 Third Street.
• The city will pay Northeast Youth and Family Services (NYFS) $30,334 in 2025 to provide mental health services. NYFS, a nonprofit social service agency, works with 16 municipalities, five law enforcement agencies and three school districts.
• Dr. Gail Cedarberg, Metropolitan Council representative for District 11, reminded residents that the White Bear Lake study group’s next meeting will be in February.
• The fee schedule is now in place for 2025. City staff reviews the fee schedule every year and makes proposed adjustments as needed.
• The city will receive grant funds from Ramsey County for an environmental site assessment (ESA)
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE 2024-03-01
Please be advised that the City of Birchwood has duly-passed the following ORDINANCE:
AN ORDINANCE COMBINING CHAPTER 401 & 402 REGARDING THE HANDLING OF WASTE IN THE CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE. The following is a SUMMARY of the Ordinance:
On December 10, 2024 the City adopted an Ordinance (2024-03-01) which operates to combine two sections of the City Code, 401 and 402, which reduces redundancy and brings terms up to contemporary standards. The disposal section is also updated to better suit the needs of the City and define different categories of waste.
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 December 18, 2024.
WASHINGTON COUNTY,
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-03-02
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 401, TITLED “SCAVENGING OF RECYCLABLE MATERIALS PROHIBITED.”
The City Council of the City of Birchwood Village, Minnesota hereby ordains: ENACTMENT. Ordinance No. 401 and titled “SCAVENGING OF RECYCLABLE MATERIALS PROHIBITED” is hereby repealed.
EFFECTIVE DATE: This ordinance becomes effective from and after its passage and publication. Adopted by the City Council of The City of Birchwood, Minnesota this 10th day of December, 2024.
Published one time in the White Bear Press on December 18, 2024.
CITY OF GRANT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: That the City Council of the City of Grant, Washington County, Minnesota shall hold a public hearing on the 7th day of January 2025 at 6:30 pm at the Town Hall located on Kimbro Avenue. Information regarding participating via Zoom can be found on the City’s website at www.cityofgrant.us. The purpose of the hearing is to consider an application for a Variance from the yard setback on property generally located on the northeast corner of Lone Oak Trl and Lake Elmo Avenue N (Lot 101) White Oak Savanna Subdivision, in Grant, MN.
Kim Points, Administrator/Clerk, City of Grant, Minnesota
Published one time in the White Bear Press on December 18, 2024.
CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE TITLE AND SUMMARY APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 24-12-2078
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 2025 CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE FEE SCHEDULE
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 newspaper;
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. 24-12-2078 as listed below:
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 2025 FEE SCHEDULE FOR THE CITY
On December 10, 2024, the City Council of the City of White Bear Lake adopted the above-referenced ordinance to adopt the 2025 Fee Schedule for the City. The updated fees go into effect on January 1, 2025. 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 Council hereby directs the City Clerk to provide the inspection and publication requirements as listed above.
The foregoing resolution, offered by Councilmember Walsh and supported by Councilmember Edberg, was carried unanimously on December 10, 2024.
Dan Louismet, Mayor
ATTEST: Caley Longendyke, City Clerk
Published one time in the White Bear Press on December 18, 2024.
DELLWOOD WILDLIFE FOUNDATION
NOTICE OF AERATION SYSTEM ON PINE TREE LAKE
Two (2) aeration systems creating open water and thin ice will be in operation on Pine Tree Lake in Washington County, Grant and Dellwood, Minnesota. Weather conditions may cause areas of thin ice to fluctuate greatly. Stay clear of marked areas.
Published two times in the White Bear Press on November 20 and December 18, 2024.
on a parcel located at the intersection of Bellaire Avenue and Spruce Place.
The city entered into a purchase agreement with Hammer Residences Inc. back in September.
To promote redevelopment, Ramsey County, in partnership with Minnesota Brownfields, offers a site assessment grant (SAG) to support early stage development by offsetting the cost of environmental assessments. The city has received approval for a SAG in the amount of up to $21,050 for a Phase I and a Phase II ESA.
Although the city's grant application did not specify a particular development plan, city staff utilized the guidance from the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which calls for mixed-use development requiring a housing component.
• An agreement has been reached with the International Association of Firefighters union group for 2025 and
624
WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110
MINUTES NOVEMBER 12, 2024
Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.
A meeting of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112 at District Center, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1) ViceChair Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2) Roll Call - Present: Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed, Daniels, Newmaster. Absent: Ellison. 3) Pledge of Allegiance. 4) Beloyed moved and Newmaster seconded to approve the agenda as presented. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 5) Daniels moved and Streiff Oji seconded to approve the consent agenda consisting of: a) Minutes for Board meeting on October 14, 2024, and October 28, 2024; b) Invoices based upon a random sample, all of which met the standards and guidelines as set by the School Board; c) Resolution regarding acceptance of gifts with thank you letters directed to the donors; d) Field trips; and e) Resolution regarding personnel items. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. PUBLIC FORUM. INFORMATION ITEMS 1) Student Recognition - Students who earned state or national honors in Boys and Girls Cross Country, Boys and Girls Soccer, and Fishing were recognized and congratulated. 2) Superintendent’s Report - Dr. Kazmierczak mentioned Veterans Day activities throughout the district. He reported on the opening of the Field House walking track for the winter season, the upcoming WBLAHS Fall Musical, “Legally Blonde, The Musical,” and Coffee with Dr. K. He also mentioned how to find Emergency School Closing information if needed. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1) 2023-24 World’s Best Workforce Summary and Achievement and Integration Progress Report - Jen Babiash, Director of Teaching and Learning, and Brenton Shavers, Director of Educational Equity and Achievement gave a report on the 2023-24 World’s Best Workforce goals, results, and strategies. The data included also highlighted the 2023-24 Achievement and Integration Progress Report that is required to be submitted to the Minnesota Department of Education by December 15, 2024. In accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.11, the School Board must publish an annual report on the previous year’s plan and hold an annual public meeting to review goals, outcomes, and strategies. 2) First Reading of School Board Policies: a) 419, Tobacco-Free Environment: Possession and Use of Tobacco, Tobacco-Related Devices, and Electronic Delivery Devices; Vaping Awareness and Prevention Instruction; b) 722, Public Data and Data Subject Requests; c) 730, Use of Electronic Signatures to Conduct Official Business; and d) 805, Waste Reduction and Recycling. The policies listed above will be on the December 9, 2024 or subsequent agenda for a second reading. OPERATIONAL ITEMS 1) Daniels moved and Newmaster seconded to approve the Action on Resolution Canvassing Return of Votes of School District General Election. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 2) Streiff Oji moved and Daniels seconded to approve the Action on Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Certificates of Election and Directing the School District Clerk to Perform Other Election Related Duties. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 3) Beloyed moved and Newmaster seconded to approve the Action on School Board Policies: a) 404, Employment Background Checks; b) 405, Veterans Preference; c) 541, Tutoring of Students; and d) 599, Academic Recognition. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. BOARD FORUM. ADJOURNMENT Arcand moved and Daniels seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:09 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Scott Arcand, clerk. Published one time in the White Bear Press on December 18, 2024. INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624 WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110 WORK SESSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 25, 2024
Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.
A work session of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, November 25, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112 at District Center, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1) Call to Order - Chair Ellison called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2) Roll Call - Present: Arcand, Daniels, Ellison, Newmaster. Absent: Beloyed, Streiff Oji, Thompson. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1) Central Middle School Update - Dr. Alison Gillespie, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, and Cathryn Peterson, Principal of Central Middle School will give an update on Central Middle School. 2) North Star Elementary Update - Dr. Alison Gillespie, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, and Dan Schmidt, Principal of North Star Elementary will give an update on North Star Elementary School. 3) 2025-26 and 2026-27 Calendar Update - Dr. Alison Gillespie, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning will present an update on work that is occurring regarding the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school year calendars. An updated and detailed 2025-26 calendar and 2026-27 calendar with key dates will be presented at the December 9, 2024 School Board meeting. 4) 2025-26 Course Proposals - Jen Babiash, Director of Teaching and Learning, and Russ Reetz, Principal of White Bear Lake Area High School will present the secondary course proposals for the 2025-26 school year. ADJOURNMENT - Arcand moved and Daniels seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:53 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Scott Arcand, clerk. Published one time in the White Bear Press on December 18, 2024.
2026. Per the agreement, the city will pay 90% of the 2025 premium increase and will contribute an additional $100 to each employee’s health savings account. The agreement also includes a 3% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for both years as well as step adjustments.
• Each year, the City Council reviews its classification and compensation plan to consider possible changes to the wage chart. Assistant City Manager Rick Juba explained that in October 2021, the council authorized a study that resulted in the adoption of a new classification and compensation plan in 2022. Prior to that process, the city’s compensation system had not been updated since 1988. The goals of the study were to ensure future compliance with the Pay Equity Act, keep the city competitive in the labor market and confirm that positions are classified appropriately.
Two classification/grade changes will be made in 2025. The assistant fire chief and assistant fire chief / fire marshal positions will move from Grade I to Grade J. These positions are second in command of the fire department and are being reclassified to further align with job duty responsibilities and the job market, and to relieve wage compression. Fire captains will also move from Grade GU to Grade HU. These three positions are the first line of supervision for the fire crews and are being reclassified to further align with job duty responsibilities and the job market.
There will not be a second City Council meeting in December. The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14.
Shannon Granholm
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
In the classic board game LIFE, players put a stick person in their car, choose college or career, spin a wheel, then land on spaces that give them tons of money. No matter their character’s chosen profession, a player becomes a millionaire over the next 30 minutes. White Bear Lake Area High School students played a more realistic version called Test Drive: Next Stop Reality last week. Royal Credit Union, which runs Test Drive events across Minnesota and Wisconsin, states that Next Stop Reality “gives high school students a real-life simulation of money and finances and lets them test drive their future to see what it takes to make it on their own as a 25-year-old.”
Career Pathways Coordinator Katy Olson emphasizes that junior year is crucial for students making decisions about future careers. “Nothing can be as impactful as immersion into life as an adult with a job and money to worry about,” Olson noted. “We hope this experience helps students determine whether the path they're interested in is feasible and enjoyable to them.”
Deb Paulsen, community financial education coordinator with Royal Credit Union, feels the event’s benefits are twofold.
First, the simulation gives students hands-on experience with personal financial decisions as well as practice balancing life priorities.
Second, the students are faced with both the negative and positive consequences of pursuing their passions. “They might find after the simulation that the career they are
leaning towards doesn’t pay enough to allow them the lifestyle they desire,” Paulsen said. “Many students will also be surprised to find out how expensive college can be based on where they choose to go.”
Paulsen explains that a student participating in the simulation will start by choosing a career, then researching how much education they would need to enter that pathway. Finally, participants will determine a starting salary for a job they’d have in that career at age 25. From there, students are assigned a random family status (married, single parent, etc.) and enter the main floor, where they will be greeted by 22 “expense stations.” Transportation, groceries, insurance—juniors will have to navigate each area of life, trying to end the month with at least one dollar left over.
Far from discouraging participants from pursuing their dreams, Test Drive strives to help students realize what resources they will need to pursue their passions. One of the most important resources in any business is connections. “Due to the large number of volunteers needed,” noted Paulsen, “we rely heavily on Royal team members and the community at large … who give students exposure to professional interactions, including face-to-face conversations and networking.”
Royal Credit Union’s Test Drive webpage admits, “Many students find out that making it on their own isn’t easy, and learn that the choices they make today will have a lasting impact on their future.”
After all, real life is a game participants only get to play once.
BY MADELINE DOLBY SHOREVIEW PRESS EDITOR
Kurt Thompson has put up thousands of lights between his current home in Shoreview and previous home in Maplewood. Last year, Thompson won second place in Press Publication’s Holiday Lights Contest.
He has been putting up holiday lights since 1990. Thompson said he got into it after his sister gave him a Santa Clause mold.
“She gave me a low mold of a Santa, and I put that up in the yard and I was like, ‘He needs some companionship out there,’” he explained.
Thompson has lived in Shoreview with his wife, Lisa, for around six years. For the past two years, he has entered his home into the Holiday Lights Contest.
He heard about the contest from Lisa after she saw it in the Shoreview Press.
“My wife saw it in the paper,” Thompson said. “She got it before I did and saw that I could enter, so that’s what I did.”
When they lived in Maplewood, Thompson also entered into the city’s holiday lights contest, but never won.
“I entered the Maplewood one but it never amounted to anything,” Thompson added. “Although my display was the brightest in the neighborhood, you could see it all the way down the street.”
One year, Thompson said a mother and son walked by when he was setting up decorations. The mother asked him if he was going to light up
A kind note from Thompson’s neighbor.
Kurt Thompson
the display soon. Thompson replied that he was just about to.
“I went inside and flipped the switch. It lit up and his eyes just grew, and he was like, ‘Whoa!’ That’s why I do it, for the kids,” Thompson said.
Another year, Thompson said he received a message from a neighbor in his mailbox that they loved his display. He added that a second neighbor told him that her children loved the display too.
This year, Thompson’s holiday lights display will look a little different due to a fall he took in June. He said he broke eight different bones and had to have a complete shoulder repair. Thompson added that recovery is going well and he is progressing.
Because of Thompson’s injury, Lisa helped set up the decorations that are currently in their yard.
“I helped when I could with my left arm,” he said. “But my wife decorated what she could, which is the blow-ups and a couple of the small decorations.”
Thompson added that he is glad to have some type of holiday display this year. He said he was glad Lisa could put up what she did, and he hopes everybody enjoys it.
“I’m glad I got a canvas to paint, so to speak,” he concluded.
Voting is now open for this year’s Holiday Lights Competition. Go to www.presspubs.com/holidaylights to vote for your favorite holiday house.
and the start of a new year, this time of year is full of festivities, and White Bear Center for the Arts keeps that celebration going.
Open House transforms their campus into a winter wonderland on Saturday, January 11, when visitors can embrace the magic of winter with a festive, family-friendly celebration.
enthusiast, a family seeking a fun outing, or just in the mood to explore your creative side, the Winter Open House promises an afternoon of free, hands-on art activities, demonstrations, and
Knit Your First Scarf
White Bear Center for the Arts
January 18, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Learn to knit a cozy scarf. With giant needles and a
a department store to a wintery dreamland.
Dan’s has long been a Twin Cities staple. His contributions reach far
few stitches per row, you’ll be done before you know it! Once you’re done, you can choose to seam the ends together to create a single- or double-loop cowl.
“Glass in All Seasons”
White Bear Center for the Arts
January 11-March 1, 2025
See stunning stained glass, fused glass, and mosaic artwork by WBCA teaching artist Sushila Anderson in this pop-up exhibition.
Chase & Ovation: A Salute to the Music of Prince
TPT 2 and the PBS App on December 17, 2024.
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - 7:30 PM
Ring in the new year at Lakeshore with a paramount Prince tribute show!
Divas Gone Country
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center
Friday, January 10, 2025 - 7:30 PM
Divas Gone Country celebrates the sounds of America’s Heartland featuring music by Dolly Parton, Shania Twain, Carrie Underwood, and others.
BY RICKA MCNAUGHTON
A column celebrating the everyday lives, loves and owner-shared stories of random dogs I’ve had the pleasure of meeting on walks around the White Bear area. John and Kim Ghilardi certainly grieved the loss of their 15-year-old English Pointer. But the time came to adopt a new puppy, and the criteria were as follows: John, who terms himself a casual hunter, had an eye out for a dog with tracking and retrieving potential. A son hoped for an indoor buddy. Kim established what the dog could not be: No larger than their last dog, and not the kind to shed wads of floof in the house. They zeroed in on a litter of rescues with, albeit, no verifiable pedigree. John and his younger son scooped up a boy whose brown and white markings stood out from the others. The warm, wiggly, snuffly puppy factor worked its
charms, and they took their little genetic wild card home. A later test, done for curiosity’s sake, would reveal that the dog’s top four DNA components were: Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, German Shepherd, and Bulldog. Ope. Say hello to Chester, a Right-sized Short-Haired Hunter-slash-House Dog. Plus, more. When the pup got to be four-monthsold, John took him on walks through woods and fields to observe and work with his natural tendencies. Chester was a full-throttle sniffing, listening, spotting machine. Dogs have sensory capabilities in the other-worldly range, unimaginable to us. Compare their 100-300 million smell receptors to our measly 5-6 million. As for hearing, think of the 88 keys on a piano as what humans can hear, and go higher by 52 keys for a dog. Individual breeds and dogs vary. But Chester had the “best nose” John had ever seen, plus other traits John could use to build a hunting dog. And so it went. But then
John Ghilardi on a late fall walk with Chester, laser-focused as usual on his surroundings.
something else happened. John found that, hunting aside, he enjoyed simply walking for hours outdoors with Chester. His own observations of the natural world were enriched by watching Chester’s. Soon, hikes with Chester morphed into a
family activity. Assessing new needs there, Chester became the self-appointed trail boss, a high level surveillance specialist who insisted that everyone stay within his view and care. Evidently, in the course of their now three-plus years together, Chester also took careful note of his humans’ habits at home.
One day he came up with the idea, on his own, to bring in a delivery of The White Bear Press lying outdoors in the elements. And without even chewing on it! It’s a regular service he provides now. As higher cognitive skills go, it’s not up there alongside devising a limitless, cost-effective zero-carbon energy source to save the planet and all its good hiking amenities. But clearly, Chester has chosen to support local journalism. Who’s a smart dog?
Ricka McNaughton is a writer living in White Bear Lake.
Glade I. Amey
(née Bachmann), 85, of White Bear Lake, MN, passed away on December 11, 2024, surrounded by her family. Glade was born June 4, 1939, in St. Paul, MN, the daughter of Otto Bachmann and Emerald Bachmann Heu (née Foote). She graduated from Johnson High School in 1957, then went on to the University of MN and studied nursing for two years. She married Edward H. Amey on June 20, 1959. They met at a wedding reception and were happily married for 65 years. Glade worked in Private and Commercial Banking at U.S. Bank for 47 years and loved her job. Preceded in death by her father Otto Bachmann, her mother Emerald Bachmann Heu, her sister Maureen Gustafson, and her brother David Bachmann.
Remaining to cherish Glade’s memory are her husband, Edward Amey and her children; Edward K. Amey (Vy), Heather Baker (Dennis), John Amey (Jadene), Allison Sonier (Andrew). Grandchildren; Kenneth Lee (Mitzi), Holly Graham (Trevor), Keri Klegstad (Brian), Thomas Klegstad (Kelly), Jeffrey Amey (Madison), William Klegstad (Gabby), Jenna Amey, Edward Amey III, Faith Baker; seven greatgrandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 19th from 4 to 7 PM at HONSA FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 2460 Co Rd. E, WBL, MN 55110.
Memorial starts at 10 AM with funeral service at 11 AM on Friday, December 20th, at COMMUNITY OF GRACE CHURCH, 4000 Linden St., WBL, MN 55110.
In Lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations in Glade’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. www.honsafamilyfuneral.com
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Herbert Peterson, who left us on December 6, 2024. Paul, a resident of White Bear Lake, MN, was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, known for his big heart and adventurous spirit. Paul is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Peterson, and his daughter, Destiny (Joseph) Kelly of Overland Park, along with their four children: Gabrielle, Joey, Julian, and Katie. He also leaves behind his brother, Mark (Andrea) from Juneau, AK. He is preceded in death by his brother Tom. A celebration of Paul’s life will take place at Rock Point Church, 5825 Kelvin Ave N Lake Elmo at Noon Thursday, December 19th with a visitation 1 hour before and a reception to follow. Mueller Memorial, White Bear Lake.
The Department of Natural Resources reminds Minnesotans to be safe about ice this winter. When is ice safe? There really is no sure answer. You can't judge the strength of ice just by its appearance, age, thickness, temperature or whether the ice is covered with snow. Strength is based on all these factors — plus the depth of water under the ice, size of the water body, water chemistry and currents, the distribution of the load on the ice, and local climatic conditions.
Many factors other than thickness affect ice strength, including air temperature, wind, snow, streams, narrow areas or bottlenecks, sun, shade, fish communities, plant decay and more. When a layer of snow melts and refreezes on top of lake ice, it creates white ice, only about half as strong as new, clear ice.
For more information about ice safety, or how to check ice thickness, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ safety/ice/check-ice-thickness.html.
86, Mahtomedi, passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Survived by her husband, Jim; children, Julie Frandsen, Ricky King, Patrick King, and Jennifer DeYoung; and other family and friends. A celebration will be held in the spring at Mueller Funeral Home in White Bear Lake.
Wed. December 18th at 10 AM for ads to run the week of December 24-26
Tues. December 24th at 10 AM for ads to run week of December 31- January 1
Marketfest is seeking an Event Director for 2025
Director is responsible for the full operations of Marketfest including: selling vendor spaces, obtaining sponsorships, booking musicians and managing the budget.
• Strong organizational and communication skills required
• Background in festival and event planning required
Send inquiries and resumes to Dan Perry at dan.perry@edwardjones.com
The Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation (GWBLCF) awarded several grants to
its Share the Joy event Dec. 5 at the White Bear Country Inn.
The Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation has awarded $100,000 to local community organizations through the Community Partners Fund at the GWBLCF’s annual Share the Joy event.
Grant funding was given to the following recipients:
• Bear Care Clinic
• Children’s Performing Arts
• Consortium of Lake Area Senor Services (CLASS)
• Girls on the Run MN
• H2O for Life Junior Achievement North
• Lakeshore Players
• Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation
• Mahtomedi Area Food Shelf Mahtomedi High School Fab Lab Many Faces
• Newtrax • Northeast Residence • Northeast Youth & Family Services St. Andrews Community Resource Center
• Tubman
Bear Area
The Community Partners Fund provides grant support for programs and projects that respond to community needs and that align with the GWBLCF's mission to inspire philanthropy and to enrich the lives of people in the communities that share the shores of White Bear Lake— Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, White Bear Lake, White Bear Township and Willernie. For more information, visit gwblcf.org.
Marketfest is seeking an Event Director for 2025
Director is responsible for the full operations of Marketfest including: selling
and
Strong organizational and communication
Send
Dellwood Country Club’s membership, friends and partners raised more than $7,500 to provide 550 meals to local families in need through the club’s first-ever 5K Turkey Trot.
Held on Nov. 24, the Turkey Trot was designed not only as a fun, family-friendly race, but also as a charitable fundraiser to support neighbors struggling with food insecurity through the White Bear Area Food Shelf. More than 110 race participants donned Thanksgiving-themed costumes and came together to run, walk or jog through the scenic 18-hole golf course.
"On behalf of the more than 300 households we serve every day, we are grateful for the generosity of Dellwood Country Club members and their friends who made this event a success," said Perry Petersen, executive director at the White Bear Area Food Shelf.
"We believe in the power of community, and this event proved that when we come together, we can make a real difference," said Pete LaCoursiere, Dellwood Country Club’s general manager. "We look forward to making the Turkey Trot an annual tradition, while continuing to support our neighbors and strengthen our community." Plans are already in motion for next year’s Turkey Trot, with hopes of raising even more funds and expanding the number of meals provided.
Dellwood Country Club hosted its first-ever Turkey Trot this year and plans are already in the works for the event to return next year. Congratulations to Zayne Flaskey, men’s 5K winner (20:22); Maddie Ruppel, women’s 5K winner (20:36); and Carter Schoeneman, children’s 1K winner (5:22).
