Many Faces to host Native American Celebration honoring culture, community
Many Faces, in partnership with the American Indian Education Programs of four local school districts, will present a Native American Celebration March 22 at Mariner Middle School in White Bear Lake.
The event aims to honor and celebrate the rich traditions of Native American communities through art, crafts, storytelling, performances, food trucks and more. Additionally, the event will recognize more than 20 American Indian students graduating from four area school districts.
Many Faces, a collaboration of 31 community organizations, is dedicated to fostering community connections and cultural awareness through educational and celebratory events. The American Indian Education Programs of White Bear Lake Area, Mahtomedi, North St. Paul/Maplewood/Oakdale and Stillwater school districts work to support Native American students and families while promoting cultural understanding.
The event builds on the Wacipi (powwow) hosted by Many Faces in May
2023. The event honored graduating students and included several drum groups, dancing, singing, socializing, educational booths, food trucks and Native American artisans and vendors.
“The importance of this day comes from decades of historical trauma where Native American students were never celebrated in traditional ways,” said Vince Patton, American Indian Education program coordinator, White Bear Lake Area Schools. “The school
Dog beach stays, for now
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — The dog beach at Matoska Park will stay open for at least one more season.
After a heavily attended public hearing last month on whether to keep the amenity open, the City Council agreed to take up the decision “one last time” this month.
The council could adopt one of the following resolutions:
• A resolution directing continued operations of the dog beach and implementing improvements recommended by the Parks Advisory Commission; or
• A resolution terminating operations of the dog beach.
Other options include:
• Rejecting both resolutions and making no change to the operations of the dog beach (stays open); or
• Direct city staff and the Parks Advisory Commission to research alternative locations for a dog beach along White Bear Lake and solicit public feedback.
Mayor Dan Louismet suggested the council first decide whether the dog beach should close and then consider the other options after that. He added that he was “impressed with the (public) participation” on the issue.
Council Member Bill Walsh said he was happy with the amount of feedback, but at some point “civility” was lost in the discussion.
“I don’t know that this is our best moment as a city. Some of the tone has not been the greatest,” Walsh said. “I think we are being a little inconsistent here in listening to the neighbors. We usually listen to the neighborhood a little bit better.”
The Native American Celebration will be March 22.
Sunshine Week: Our right to know
This week is Sunshine Week. Sunshine Week is a nonpartisan collaboration among groups in the journalism, civic, education, government and private sectors that shines a light on the importance of public records and open government.
Sunshine Sunday began in Florida in 2002, led by the Florida Society of Newspaper Editors. National Sunshine Week was launched in 2005 by the American Society of Newspaper Editors with the support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. In 2019, the American Society of News Editors merged with the Associated Press Media Editors to become the News Leaders Association.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
As of Dec. 8, 2023, Sunshine Week is coordinated by the Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications.
Sunshine Week occurs each year in mid-March, coinciding with James Madison’s birthday, March 16 (1751). Madison was a driving force behind the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and presented the first version of the Bill of Rights to Congress. He also was the fourth president of the United States.
For more information, visit https:// sunshineweek.org .
Nominations sought for Volunteer of the Year
The Volunteer of the Year Award will be given to an active participant in the White Bear Lake area — one who demonstrates exceptional service to our community and/or the organization(s) in which she or he is involved. Nominations should include a narrative that details why you feel the person is worthy of the recognition. Completed nomination forms should be submitted through a member of the White Bear Events Committee (Scott Bohnen, Bill Foussard or Carter Johnson) by Friday, April 18.
Button contest kicks off soon
The annual Manitou Days button contest will start March 24 and run through April 11. The contest is open to students in grades K-5 in the White Bear Lake Area School District. Button submissions should revolve around this year’s theme, “Bears Making History.” The first-place winner will receive a pizza party and Cup and Cone for their class. The first-place winner also gets to be in the Manitou Days parade. There are cash prizes for first, second and third place.
CORRECTION
The article “Treasure hunt for neighborhood history uncovers ample gems” in last week’s issue contained a couple of name misspellings. The correct spellings are Jon Ecklin and Harold DeGree. We apologize for the errors.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Wedding Show
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
March 23
Where: White Bear Country Inn
Details: The show will include approximately 35 vendors covering wedding musthaves like venues, catering, officiants and flowers. For more information, visit presspubs. com.
Contact: presspubs.com or 651407-1200
METROWIDE LEGISLATIVE HOUSING POLICY BREAKFAST
When: 9 -11:15 a.m. Friday, March 21
Where: Christ Lutheran Church, 105 University Ave., St. Paul
Details: State and local legislators will discuss current legislation
addressing both affordable housing and homelessness. Register online. Contact: tinyurl.com/Metrowide25
THE WRITER'S ROOM: AN OPEN STUDIO FOR WRITERS
When: 1-4 p.m. Friday, March 21
Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Avenue
Details: Write in the company of fellow writers in an inspiring space, led by Amber Guetebier. For adults and teens 16+, all levels.
Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts. org
NATIVE AMERICAN CELEBRATION
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, March 22
Where: Mariner Middle School, White Bear Lake
Details: Event to celebrate the Native American community open to all.
Contact: manyfaceswblarea.org/ events
SAP TO SYRUP
When: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, March 22
Where: Tamarack Nature Center, White Bear Township
Details: Celebrate the season by tapping trees, boiling sap, and enjoying maple crafts and treats. Register online. Contact: 651-266-0360 or ramseycounty.us/residents/parksrecreation/tamarack-nature-center/ programs-events
Student-directed play anthology ‘Almost, Maine’ lights up WBLAHS theater
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
This weekend, for the first time in 20 years, White Bear Lake Area High School will stage student-directed plays. Competitive One-Act Director Braylon Lane restarted the program and served as adviser during production along with stage manager Mary Brooks Evans. “I felt that students need to be put in the shoes of the director sometimes,” Lane said. “I wanted them to gain the hands-on experience of what it’s like to direct a scene or short one-act, let alone a full, 2 1/2-hour musical.”
The result is “Almost, Maine,” an anthology of short, comedic love stories told around a campfire. Each story is directed by a different student as follows: Zawa Carney, “Where It Went”;
Luca Ackerman, “Getting It Back”; Toby Gorski, “Story of Hope”; and Lydia Jersak, “They Fell”. “Some of them are funny, some of them are sad, some of them are heartwarming, but they’re all about love, and they all end with a magical moment,” said senior Ben McMillen. McMillen and classmate Paige Peters will separately present one-act plays that are not a part of the “Almost, Maine” anthology. Peters is adapting a production based on her own script, “Too Far Gone,” about how a man’s anxiety disorder manifests itself in his daily life. McMillen, meanwhile, is adapting Georges-Gustave Toudouze’s 1937 horroradventure story “Three Skeleton Key,” about men who must survive in a lighthouse when rats invade their island.
DESIGNING GARDENS WITH NATIVE AND NON-NATIVE PLANTS FOR CLIMATE
ACTION
When: 11 a.m.-noon Saturday, March 22
Where: Bruentrup Heritage Farm, 2170 County Road D E., Maplewood
Details: In-person program on sustainibility and environmental stewardship with “Farmer TJ” Malaskee.
Contact: bit.ly/NEMCA0322
PRAISE AND WORSHIP CONCERT
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, March 23
Where: Lakewood Worship Center, 2080 Woodlyn Ave., Maplewood
Details: Performance by the Harbor Light Gospel Team and Friends from St. Albans.
Contact: 651-779-9177
LOST WHITE BEAR
When: 6-7 p.m. Monday, March 24
Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St.
Details: Hear the stories of many lost buildings in the area. No registration necessary.
Contact: whitebearhistory.org
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 25
Where: Katherine Abbott Park, 1000 Lincolntown Ave., Mahtomedi
Details: Hike on paved trails and streets through Willernie. Contact: stpaulhike.com
‘HELLO MS. PERFECT’ BOOK CLUB
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 25
Where: The Women Collective, 4716
NAMES IN THE NEWS
Birchwood resident Marian Bemis Johnson’s book “Daughters of the Game” is featured in the “Girlhood (It’s complicated)” exhibit at the Minnesota History Center. The book, which was published in 2005, is an oral history of Minnesota girls high school basketball from its inception in 1891 to the reasons why hundreds of teams disappeared by 1942. The book has personal recollections from athletes and is filled with photos and memorabilia from scrapbooks carefully preserved over the lifetime of the first “daughters of the game.”
The exhibit explores the everevolving concept of girlhood in the United States and how young women have influenced politics, education, work, health and fashion. It features over 100 artifacts from the Smithsonian Institution, interactive displays, historical photographs and more.
Highway 61, White Bear Lake
Details: Author Amelia Reigstad, PhD, facilitates discussion of her women empowerment book. Ticket information online. Contact: thewomencollective.com
ST. PIUS X LENTEN FISH FRY
When: 4-6:30 p.m. Friday, March 28
Where: St. Pius X, 3878 Highland Avenue, White Bear Lake
Details: Dine in or curbside to go in northeast parking lot. Stations of the Cross at 7 p.m.
Contact: 651-429-5337 or churchofstpiusx.org
NATIONAL VIETNAM WAR VETERANS DAY PROGRAM
When: 10 a.m. Saturday, March 29 Where: Boatworks Commons, 4495 Lake Ave. S.
Details: VFW Post 1782 annual observance to honor those who have served and who perished in the Vietnam War, with special recognition of local fallen service members. Two keynote speakers share firsthand experiences. Contact: 701-200-6248
NOAH SONIE: MAGICIAN AND MENTALIST
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 29
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Performance is modern mentalism and magic with an interactive twist. Ticket information online.
Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
Though these plays were developed on a tight turnaround, technical director Jacob Pasiuk still plans to wow the audience. “Come see it. We’re using new lighting fixtures in it,” Pasiuk stated. “We have stars and a lighthouse effect.”
“We’ve got an amazing cast,” added McMillen, “and we’ve got a ton of crew people who are going to work real hard to get this off the ground. … We all understand that it's the first time we've done this in awhile, and it needs to pack a punch.”
“Almost, Maine,” along with “Too Far Gone” and “Three Skeleton Key,” shows at 7 p.m. Friday, March 21, and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, March 22. For tickets and more details, visit sites.google. com/isd624.org/musicaltheatre/tickets-almostmaine.
The traveling exhibit has a section based on girls basketball in Minnesota. Girls played Minnesota’s first recorded basketball game in 1893. Ever since then, girls have shaped— and been shaped by—the game.
Through stories of individual players and teams, this exclusive section of the exhibit demonstrates how girls who make a difference grow into women committed to supporting the next generations of female athletes as coaches, mentors, friends and allies.
The exhibit runs through June 1. For more information, visit www. mnhs.org/historycenter/activities/ museum/girlhood.
A project by students from Ivy Hunt’s class at St. Jude of the Lake earned 2nd Place Exhibit Design and the Wolf Pack Award for the 2025 ZOOMS STEM Design Challenge. The Minnesota Zoo’s program is a yearlong project that challenges elementary, middle and high school students from across Minnesota and beyond to develop solutions for real zoo-based scenarios.
More than 4,300 students were challenged to engineer innovative enrichments or exhibit designs for the
Minnesota Zoo’s critically endangered white-cheeked gibbons. Only 121 projects out of 1,300 were selected to advance to the exhibition, where zoo staff and volunteer judges from Flint Hills Resources reviewed the projects and presented awards to the winning students. The top three projects at the elementary, middle and high school levels were awarded at the exhibition. Student teams won prizes for the conservation, innovation, teamwork and zookeeper categories.
The Wolf Pack Award highlights a team that demonstrated collaboration throughout the design process in a purposeful and enthusiastic way and incorporated ongoing external or peer feedback to modify and improve their design.
Pictured (from left) are fifth grade students Isabel Hiller, Sydney Myhre and Adelynne de St Aubin.
CONTRIBUTED
Competitive One-Act Director Braylon Lane advises student directors at a production meeting.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Pictured (from left) are fifth grade students Charles Engelke, Lucia Madison, Julia Truso, Braden Wojtow and Charles Engelke.
OPINION
Treat people with kindness, even journalists
Don’t get me wrong, I love my job, but I feel compelled to let you in on a “behind the scenes” view of what a journalist can sometimes deal with.
Recently, I wrote an article about how private insurance companies in Minnesota are now required to cover the costs of wigs for patients who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments.
Shannon’s
Shenanigans
Shannon Granholm
I was subsequently contacted by a woman who read my story and wanted to know how she could donate her hair to be used for a wig. I didn’t have the answer to her question, so I reached out to my sources to learn more. Thirty minutes later I received an angry voicemail, followed by another one 3 minutes later and another one six minutes later.
The voicemails continued to get angrier and were filled with profanity. I understand it can be frustrating to not hear back from somebody for an extended period of time, but it hadn’t even been two hours since her first call. I wasn’t ignoring her, I was waiting until I heard back from my sources so I could give her more information on how to go about donating her hair.
Keep in mind that while I’m seeking that answer for her, I was also taking other phone calls, answering emails, writing stories and planning for future editions of several publications.
Or what about the time when I spent my Saturday volunteering with my husband, toddler and dogs to participate in a community parade in our VW bus and was confronted by someone calling me and my publication “fake news.”
I think back to when I interviewed for the position at Press Publications nine years ago, and our publisher, Carter Johnson, warned me that he was concerned I didn’t have thick enough skin. I was honest with him in that I didn’t have thick skin, but hoped over time it was something I could develop.
And here I am all these years later, still receiving mean phone calls, voicemails, emails, letters or having run-ins that still affect me more than they should because I am human. Just because I’m a journalist, doesn’t mean I deserve to be yelled at, sworn at or threatened. Please think before you leave a nasty comment on social media, yell into the phone or send me a nasty letter in the mail.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention some of the kind things people have done and said to share that they appreciate me, the work I do and the newspaper they read. Like the time when a local author sent me a personalized illustration, thanking me for running information about his new book and sent me a couple of signed books for my son. Or the time when an artist was inspired to draw a portrait of my Angel Frosty after reading a column I wrote about grieving her loss. Or the time when a local mayor took the time out of a city council meeting to encourage people to read an article I recently wrote in the paper.
Every single kind note or letter I have received over the years hangs on a bulletin board in my office. Sometimes I just need to remind myself of the nice things people have said after an outpouring of mean. Perhaps that’s why one of the journalists I used to work with had a folder called “praise mail” dedicated to the nice emails that had come into his inbox.
As Thumper, the rabbit from Disney’s Bambi once said, “If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.”
Shannon Granholm is the managing editor of Press Publications.
Shine light on unwelcome news and squash rumors
Newspapers at their foundation provide a living history of their communities. The reports include a mixture of good news and bad news.
Movers & Shakers
Jim Pumarlo
Gathering and reporting the good news comes rather easily and is volunteered by the sources. First responders are commended for their swift response to saving a life. The school district applauds the academic and athletic achievements of graduating seniors. A local manufacturer is honored for setting a safety record for consecutive days without a workplace accident. In contrast, gathering and reporting bad news can be challenging. Stories likely go unreported without some digging. A public safety director is quietly reprimanded after taking a pleasure ride on the city’s water patrol boat. A superintendent refuses to acknowledge the recommendation to close a school building until formal school board action. A worker loses fingers in an industrial accident.
I encourage Minnesotans to embrace and celebrate the efforts of newspapers to pursue and deliver information relevant to their communities during Sunshine Week, March 16-22. The observance is a nonpartisan collaboration among groups in the journalism, civic, education, government and
• Limited to 350 words.
• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.
private sectors that shines a light on the importance of public records and open government.
Sharing unwelcome news up front takes a step toward quelling the rumor mill. Those who are forthcoming with circumstances typically see repercussions minimized.
Newspapers rightfully stand firmly on the letter of the law when seeking access to public information. Even more important, those hesitant to share what they perceive as unflattering news should consider two points.
First, think carefully about the spirit of openness – no matter what the law dictates. Public officials should place themselves in the position of friends and neighbors seeking answers from City Hall. Would they be satisfied with “no comment”?
Second, recognize the value of setting benchmarks for community conversation. Meeting in secret or withholding information fuels rumors. If gossip has reached the newspaper, those affected can rest assured it has circulated broadly. At minimum, hearsay exaggerates the facts. At worst, the whispers promote blatant falsehoods.
The opportunity to deliver facts straight from the source is one of the strongest arguments to share information. Citizens still may dismiss statements as a “company line,” but parameters have been set for community discussion.
The premise of openness should be embraced in the private sector too. Companies and individuals are not subject to the same laws as public bodies, but their news is equally important to the community
and often travels quickly.
Conflicts over the public’s right to know often focus on a specific meeting or document.
I vividly recall “news” passed along by my photographer when I sat behind the editor’s desk. Word had reached his son’s elementary school that a teacher at the middle school had lost all his fingers in a lab experiment. We promptly tracked the story. The superintendent set the record straight. The teacher lost a fingertip and all was handled very calmly and professionally.
Our first inquiry, however, went to the school principal. She refused comment, charging us with sensationalism. A few minutes later she called and canceled her newspaper subscription without even seeing our report. I’ll stand by our decision to pursue and publish the story. I’m certain we prevented a lot of misinformed dinner talk that evening.
We all can likely relate to the spirit of openness as youths when we tried to hide bad behavior from our parents. The truth inevitably surfaced, and we bore the brunt of punishment. Lesson: Be up front.
During Sunshine Week, we pay tribute to the millions of readers who invite newspapers into their homes each day. I speak firsthand from my years sitting behind the editor’s desk. We enjoy the relationships we’ve made, and we hope our readers do, too.
Jim Pumarlo is a member of the Minnesota Newspaper Association. He can be reached at jim@pumarlo.com.
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and
• 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 651429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
GOP tax plan
Recently the GOP Congress increased the debt ceiling by $4.0 trillion to pay for their $4.5 trillion tax cut. This is their second highly regressive tax cut for billionaires, since the first $1.9 trillion tax cut. When $4.5 trillion
($4,500,000,000,000) is divided by the 333 million (333,000,000) people in our country, you find that each of us will have equally contributed $13,500 to the national debt. This is regardless of individual income. Newborn babies are counted as people, too. After all, they will grow up accumulating this annual debt and eventually go to work to pay it off.
Look, the primary purpose of this GOP tax cut is to funnel $4.5 trillion to billionaires and the top 1%, not to us. If it were for us, then we would each be getting $13,500 in our tax refunds. A family of five should get a tax cut check for $67,500 every year it is active. Why? Because each of us will be responsible for repaying this huge loan that the GOP has so generously provided. We all equally own the national debt. If I am to be required to pay off this loan, then I want the principal.
I would be crazy, stupid or scammed to pay off someone else’s loan when they keep the principal, and I get the bill. I think not.
But that is exactly the GOP plan: $4.5 trillion for Elon Musk and his billionaire buddies to receive virtually the entire principal of $13,500 from each of us and then stick us with the entire bill. Really? We might get maybe 20 bucks a week per family. This is the part that we would normally call “The Grift.”
Wake up, America. We are being scammed by Musk and the GOP in plain sight on national news every day. We should demand from our “elected” officials that our national wealth not be handed over to a bunch of billionaires.
Ross S. Culverhouse White Bear Lake
Trees are historical
Last week this paper featured a wonderful story about a centenarian and an article about an amateur historian that followed threads of neighborhood history stretching to the mid-19th century. I am writing to draw attention to something in downtown White Bear Lake that dates back to 1874, yet it appears that the City Council intends have it destroyed to create more parking spaces.
More accurately, it is four things that are slated to be demolished despite standing for roughly 150 years! The unusual layout of the parking lot behind Frattallone’s Hardware is due to tree preservation that occurred when the lot on the southwest corner of Banning Avenue and Fifth Street was constructed. It is remarkable that such a step was taken to preserve the large trees back then, just as it is remarkable (albeit 180-degrees the other direction) that removal is planned now.
It looks like the self-imposed objective to keep the same number of downtown parking spaces will be met by removing these trees that rise above nearby buildings, mitigate stormwater runoff, shade existing parking spaces, and have been part of the local environment for more than seven generations. Could Fifth Street east of Highway 61 be reconfigured to a one-way with the surface lot expanding northward instead? Might that block be closed completely for even more parking? Fewer bump outs could be proposed along Banning. Following the successful pilot project in 2019, how about the city add autonomous vehicles to reduce the need for people to drive downtown? Were any reasonable alternatives even considered?
If you object to this tree removal, follow the lead of The Lorax and speak to Mayor Louismet and your representative on the City Council because those trees can’t speak for themselves. Even if you aren’t concerned by the proposed action, I encourage you to stop by those aged bur oaks and reflect on the history that has unfolded around them. Do it soon, they may be leaving this summer.
Protecting the rich
On the same day that Trump prepared to cut the Veterans Affairs staff by 80,000 and cut the Department of Education staff by 50%, he thought it was a good idea to act as a car salesman for Tesla on the lawn of the White House. He actually read off a script promoting Telsa cars because he feels sorry for Elon Musk (the richest man in the world) because Telsa stock is going down. Trump had the nerve to say that people protesting and boycotting Tesla are “domestic terrorists,” and that the government would make sure they “go through hell.” Peaceful protesters he calls “domestic terrorists,” not those who stormed the Capitol on Jan 6! Trump is spending his time protecting and promoting the richest man in the world while his administration continues its cruelty by cutting jobs, financial aid and grants that will hurt families and our economy. These cuts will hurt red states and rural areas the most. Trump feels obligated to Elon because he spent $290 million on Trump’s campaign to buy the election, and he just pledged an additional $100 million to the Trump operation. The amount of money flowing from Elon into this White House is grotesque and is a result of the Supreme Court ruling in the Citizens United case.
To prevent conflicts of interest and misuse of a public position, there are federal ethics regulations that prohibit any employee from using their government position to endorse “any product, service or enterprise.” But this administration does not think ethics or rules apply to them. I don’t think any of us voted for a president who spends more time promoting and protecting the richest man in the world while destroying the lives of so many.
Amy Varner Vadnais Heights
Disrespect for veterans
As a Vietnam era veteran, I was deeply disappointed in a recent decision by the Secretery of Veterans Affairs to cut $2 billion of contracts. The cuts included important programs to help cover medical services, fund for cancer programs, doctor recruitment, and burial services for veterans. VA Secretary Collins has forgotten that the mission of the VA is “to provide health, education, disability, funerary and financial benefits earned by veterans of the US armed forces”.
This situation has highlighted the concerns surrounding treatment and recognition of veterans going forward under the current administration. We can show appreciation to our veterans by not only thanking them for their service, but supporting them with robust VA programs.
These cuts in VA services are being led by Republicans in Congress. Call the 3rd ranking Republican in Congress, Rep. Tom Emmer, at (202)225-2331, or (763)-241-6848 or (952)-2622999, and let him what what you think about cuts to VA services.
Dick Ottman Vadnais Heights
Celebrating our diversity
Thank you to Madeline Dolby for last week’s editorial in defense of children’s freedom to read, even banned books. Ms. Dolby revealed her personal reading choice journey, always emphasizing that it was her choice. I’m happy she defended parents’ right and responsibility to know what their children are reading.
Unfortunately, America has a long history of jumping on populist wagons banning literature, art, music, speech, history and ideas. We are currently witnessing the Trump administration’s efforts to erase any reference to or examples of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) from the public record. We should be celebrating our diversity, working to see that all of us succeed and continue to oppose discrimination.
Jeff Luxford White Bear Lake
Richard Moskop White Bear Lake
COPS&COURTS
WHITE
BEAR LAKE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Officers assisted Ramsey County deputies with a fight in the 3200 block of Highway 61 March 5.
• Officers responded to a family issue in the 3700 block of Highland Avenue March 5.
• A mailbox was damaged overnight March 5 in the 3700 block of McKnight Road.
• Officers responded to an assault in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway March 5.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4700 block of Highway 61 March 5.
• Officers responded to a report of disorderly conduct in the 1300 block of Hedman Way March 5.
• Officers responded to a curfew violation in the 1900 block of County Road F March 6.
• Officers conducted warrant attempts March 6 in the 3200 block of Karth Road and the 1900 block of County Road E. In both cases, the suspects were not located.
• A St. Paul woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near Interstate 694 and Highway 61 March 7. A person reported missing March 7 in the 2700 block
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Birchwood
• Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies on Feb. 16 conducted a directed patrol for stop sign runners at Hall Avenue and Jay Street and found no violations within 30 minutes. During the same 30-minute patrol on Feb. 18, deputies conducted three traffic stops and issued two citations and one verbal warning.
Dellwood
• A motorist was arrested for DWI Feb. 16 on Quail Road and Shady Woods Road, after being pulled over for speeding.
Grant
• A resident in the 6000 block of 117th Street N. on Feb. 13 reported the wind for blowing smoke from a nearby smouldering fire toward her house and making it difficult for her to breathe. Deputies observed a small amount of smoke coming from a brush pile that appeared to be at a substantial distance from the complainant's house.
• While en route to a medical call in the 7000 block of Manning Avenue on Feb. 14, deputies reported one of the squad's tires for leaking air. As deputies limped back to base, the call was handled by medics.
• A neighbor in the 9000 block of 96th Street N. on Feb. 15 was reported for burning a tree stump and creating a lot of smoke. Following a second report about the fire, deputies arrived on scene to advise the complainant that no city ordinance was being violated, as the fire was contained and tended by the resident.
Mahtomedi
A motorist on Wildwood Road was cited for driving after revocation Feb. 9.
• Deputies cited two motorists on Feb. 9, both on Wildwood Road. The first motorist was cited at 10:19 p.m. for speeding on Wildwood Road and Lincolntown Avenue, and the second at 10:55 p.m. at the same location for driving after revocation.
• Two agencies were unsuccessful in trying to catch a speeding vehicle with no front license plate at 2:14 a.m. Feb. 13 on southbound Century Avenue and Long Lake Road. After the vehicle turned westbound on County Road D, deputies tried to catch up to it, but it became evasive
of Riviera Drive was located at the Scott County jail.
• Officers directed a man to remove non-working vehicles from a private location in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road March 7.
Identity theft was reported in the 2200 block of Stillwater Street March 7.
• Officers responded to a complaint of a dog bite in the 5100 block of Division Avenue March 7.
• Officers responded to a verbal dispute in the 1900 block of Eugene Street March 7.
• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 4400 block of Lake Avenue S. March 8.
• Trespassing was reported in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road March 8.
• Officers responded to a disturbance at a business in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road March 8.
• Officers responded to a family dispute in the 1900 block of Orchard Lane March 8.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road March 8.
• A St. Paul man was arrested ffor DWI following a traffic stop in the area of Bellaire Avenue and Jansen Avenue March 9.
at high speed around Bellaire Avenue and Orchard Lane and turned its lights off. Deputies advised Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies about the vehicle, but they could not locate any vehicle matching the suspect vehicle's description.
• Deputies on patrol at 2:25 a.m. Feb. 13 on Century Avenue and Long Lake Road started a random license plate reader check and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle showing the registered owner with a revoked license. The motorist was cited for driving after revocation.
• Catalytic converter thieves are back at it, following a report from Ridge Way on Feb. 13. The complainant stated that his catalytic converter was stolen by unknown persons while at an auto shop. Deputies checking the auto shop found no camera, no suspect, no indication of when the theft occurred and no catalytic converter.
• A motorist was cited at 2:43 a.m. Feb. 14 on Mahtomedi Avenue and Dahlia Street for failure to stop at a stop sign. Another motorist was cited at 1:38 a.m. Feb. 15 at the same intersection for violating the city's winter parking ban. A third motorist was cited at 1:43 a.m. Feb. 15 on Dahlia Street and Forest Avenue for illegal overnight parking.
• A large group of juveniles was reported for fighting in the hallways of a multi-family dwelling on Wildwood Road at 9:07 p.m. Feb. 15, as part of a regular occurrence. Deputies arriving on scene observed multiple juveniles fanning out in all directions. Deputies sent emails to the appropriate deputies regarding the incident.
Pine Springs
• Deputies assisted the Stillwater Police Department at 10:14 a.m. Feb. 11 in rounding up a stolen vehicle on Highway 36 and Hilton Trail N. and conducted a high risk traffic stop. It turned out that the driver was the registered owner of the vehicle.
Willernie
• A motorist was arrested Feb. 15 on Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue N., after deputies on patrol ran a license plate check that returned an outstanding warrant hit for the registered owner. As it happened, the driver was also found to be impaired and registered a .16 blood alcohol content on the Data Master test at jail. He was booked on the warrant and for third degree DWI.
Loretta Harding
• Officers responded to a dispute between siblings in the 1800 block of Birch Street March 9.
• A cyber safety incident was reported in the 1900 block of Clarence Street March 9.
A Burnsville man was cited for theft after stealing liquor from a business in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road March 9.
• Officers responded to a dispute between two drivers over a handicap spot in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road March 9.
• Juveniles were reportedly acting disorderly in the 2600 block of County Road E March 9.
• Officers took a missing persons report in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road March 9.
• A St. Paul man was arrested at a Dell Court address for two outstanding warrants March 10.
• Officers reponded to a domestic incident in the 2100 block of Roth Place March 10.
• Officers responded to a dispute between family members in the 3700 block of Highland Avenue March 10.
• Vehicles were broken into March 11 in the 1900 block of Whitaker Street, the 1900 block of Eugene Street, and the 4600 block of Fourth Avenue.
RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township:
Vadnais Heights
• A Minneapolis woman, 21, was cited Feb. 10 for shoplifting after she was caught stealing from the Walmart store in the 800 block of County Road E. Another shoplifting incident was reported Feb. 13 at the Walmart. Deputies responded, collected evidence and opened an investigation. On Feb. 14, a Golden Valley man, 29, was cited at the store after he was caught stealing.
Chisago City woman on Feb. 10 reported that someone had broken into her parent's vehicle while it was parked in the 800 block of County Road E and had stolen a lunchbox. The break-in resulted in significant damage to the vehicle.
• Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies on Feb. 11 advised a St. Paul woman that a family dispute in the 70 block of Twin Lake Blvd. over cryptocurrency investments was a civil issue and provided resources. Family members had recently entered into an agreement to purchase bitcoin, and the complainant felt that one of them had stolen some of the investment.
• A resident in the 4200 block of Parkview Court on Feb. 11 reported being scammed out of $250,000 over the phone.
• Kwik Trip employees in the 3200 block of Highway 61 reported merchandise was shoplifted from the store on Feb. 11. The case is under investigation.
• Deputies removed a man with a harassment restraining order against him from an address in the 1000 block of County Road D on Feb. 12.
• The driver of a commercial vehicle was cited Feb. 13 in the 3500 block of Highway 61 after he reportedly caused a twovehicle property damage crash. The citation did not stem from any moving violation, but for several equipment violations, after the Minnesota State Patrol commercial vehicle inspector conducted an inspection of the commercial vehicle at the scene.
• A Fridley man reported the
driver-side mirror of his vehicle destroyed Feb. 13 while it was parked at the Target store in the 900 block of County Road E. The criminal damage to property stemmed from a road rage incident.
• A motorist was cited Feb. 13 for failure to insure a vehicle, following an accident investigation after a motor vehicle property damage crash occurred in a parking lot in the 1100 block of County Road E.
• A package was reported stolen off a front step in the 1100 block of County Road D on Feb. 13. White Bear Township
• A White Bear Lake woman, 36, was trespassed from the Cub Foods property in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive Feb. 10 after she poured a can of soda pop over a former colleague’s vehicle while it was parked in the lot.
• Deputies responded to a shoplifting report from the Cub Foods store Feb. 12, collected evidence and launched an investigation. A White Bear Township woman, 66, was arrested Feb. 15 at the Cub Foods for stealing items from the store over the course of several weeks, after she was caught on surveillance cameras pretending to scan items at the self-checkout aisle. Another would-be shoplifter was reported for gathering food items and attempting to leave the store on Feb. 14. When confronted by staff, the thief dropped the items and fled.
• An Aitkin man, 33, was arrested as a carjacking and murder suspect at 3:03 p.m. Feb. 12 in the 5300 block of Northwest Avenue after a resident reported a man she did not know for pounding on her door, looking into her windows and entering her garage. Deputies located the suspect a short distance away. After he was turned over to an outside agency, he currently sits in the Aitkin jail awaiting trial. The stolen vehicle was subsequently recovered.
• A license plate was reported stolen off of a 2005 Buick Grand Prix parked in the 5300 block of Northwest Avenue overnight Feb. 15-16.
Loretta Harding
DOG BEACH: City Council directs staff to explore other possible
Walsh provided a couple of examples of how the city had listened to neighbors when other conflicts arose. “We are not listening to the neighbors that say this is a persistent problem that is not going away. I want to listen to the neighbors. This thing doesn’t fit where it is at,” he said. Walsh added that he would “pledge” to work on finding another location if a dog beach is an amenity the city wants to provide.
Council Member Steven Engstran proposed an amendment to the resolution to close the dog beach that would also close the Seventh Street swimming beach.
“The volume of people, the noise; kids are there for three to five hours at a time, dogs are there 20 minutes to a half hour; kids urinate in the water a lot more than the dogs; kids are going to yell, scream and holler more than the dogs,” Engstran explained. “So, if you are going to complain about the dogs, you’ve got to complain about the people ...” Engstran’s amendment to the resolution failed for a lack of a second.
Council Member Kevin Edberg said he was convinced that the dog beach was not an issue of public safety due to the water quality tests. He also said he felt that the city did need to address the issue of the leash rule at the dog beach not being in alignment with the city code.
“I have not been convinced by the evidence that has been presented. It’s all anecdotal. I don’t not believe it, but it is not enough for me to deny the use of a public amenity that we
have had at this time. I could get there, but I’m not there tonight.”
Louismet responded, “I don’t know what more evidence we could possibly have ... We have been beating this to death since 2001.
“My concern is that this conversation will never end. We are still going to have these complaints. We are still going to have a very large number of people that simply don’t get to enjoy their property …”
Edberg said the 100 visits the Parks Advisory Committee made to the dog beach and their recommendations for the beach should also carry some weight in this discussion.
Council Member Heidi Hughes asked Edberg, “I have sent so many pictures. It was real, it was happening. What evidence would you like to see? Because I’m certain I have multiple photos of it.”
Hughes said several years ago she was told by the city manager not to approach people at the dog beach but rather call the police when there were conflicts so that instances could be documented.
“I’m not sure how to put into words how frustrating that is to know that we were told to call the police, and something was going to be done but actually nothing was ever going to be done because there was nothing there to do … this wasn’t caused because I wanted to be a jerk. That was the mechanism we were given to fight back about something that doesn’t make sense.”
Council Member Andrea West asked City Attorney Dave Anderson to weigh in on whether Hughes living so close to the dog beach would be considered a conflict of
interest. Anderson responded, “This is a little bit more personal to her given where she resides ... but it is not a disqualifying interest that would require a council member to recuse themselves.”
West said she had an issue with closing a public amenity without having another resource available nearby. “I think engaging the community about the dog park and maybe parks as a wider issue is something I really want to see,” she said.
The motion to close the dog beach failed with a 2-3 vote (Edberg, West and Engstran voted no).
Walsh made another motion, which was supported unanimously, to direct city staff to study other possible locations by Oct. 1. Meanwhile, the dog beach will
Weather Tidbits
Brought to you by
remain open.
City Manager Lindy Crawford asked if the locations had to be on White Bear Lake, and Walsh responded no. Edberg said, “all options are on the table,” including partnering with Ramsey County.
“There is no guarantee here that we will find anything,” Crawford said. “We will do our due diligence … We will do our best without exhausting a lot of city funds.”
The council also directed city staff to pursue a change to the city code that would no longer allow dogs to be off leash in one of the three designated areas (Matoska Park).
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com
The weather has really varied from the norm. We had a few days of super nice weather followed by a few days that remind us that winter is not over yet. We escaped a nasty winter storm that brought blizzard conditions to western Minnesota this past Friday and Saturday. Strong winds and snow made traveling difficult in parts of western Minnesota. We did experience thunder on Friday evening along with a quarter inch of rain. Ice pellets were reported in the northern suburbs on Saturday, which saw temperatures fall to the
White Bear Lake Area Church Directory
Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Tips to manage your portfolio in turbulent times
Seasoned investors recognize that risk is inherent to investing in the stock market. Numerous variables affect market performance, and those factors can make investing feel like a roller coaster ride.
The stock market has certainly experienced its share of ups and downs in recent years, and that turbulence has led to some sleepless nights for investors. Investors concerned about unpredictable market fluctuations and the effects of such turbulence on their portfolios can keep these strategies in mind as they look to protect their investments.
• Determine how much risk you’re comfortable with. Investopedia defines risk tolerance as the degree of risk investors are willing to endure given the volatility in the value of an investment. Certain types of investments, such as stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), are associated with a higher risk tolerance, while bonds have long been recommended to individuals who are uncomfortable taking on too much risk. Conventional financial wisdom suggests individuals assume less risk as they age and get closer to retirement, but investors also
can reevaluate their risk tolerance during turbulent times. If an up-anddown market is leading to sleepless nights, it might be time to assume less risk, regardless of an investor’s age. Investors who are comfortable assuming risk in a turbulent market can maintain the status quo or even assume greater risk in the hopes of reaping greater rewards.
• Consider a rebalance. Investors rebalance their portfolios to make themselves less vulnerable to market fluctuations and to ensure they’re not sinking money into underperforming stocks and funds. A balanced mix of risky and steady investments can help investors grow their money and rest easier in the knowledge that all of their eggs are not in one basket,
and that they’re doing all they can to avoid bad investments.
• Don’t sweat the small stuff. The investment experts at John Hancock® note that bear markets, which is the term used to describe a market that falls 20 percent or more from its peak, historically do not last as long as bull markets. A bull market occurs when stocks increase by 20 percent or more after a decline. Younger investors who are not nearing retirement age should not lose too much sleep when a turbulent market takes a downturn, as the dip likely won’t last long nor affect their long-term financial stability. Older investors concerned by market losses also can rest easy if they choose less risky investments the closer they get to retirement. Many funds are now based on investors’ targeted retirement dates, and such vehicles automatically rebalance portfolios as investors age, making it easier to get through dips in market performance no matter an investor’s age.
Investing during turbulent times can try investors’ patience. But a handful of strategies can help investors protect their financial futures even during times of great market fluctuation.
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:
Oasis Enterprise Holdings
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 18202 Minnetonka Blvd., Deephaven MN 55391
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.
OASIS Enterprise Holding Group LLC
18202 Minnetonka Blvd., Deephaven MN 55391
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: February 24, 2025
Signed: Peter Kubiak
Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 12 and 19, 2025.
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: Innovative Program Solutions
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
2727 GRAND PRAIRIE PKWY WAUKEE IA 50263
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.
CSDZ,LLC
2727 GRAND PRAIRIE PKWY WAUKEE IA 50263
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: February 21, 2025
Signed: S. Christian Nelson, VP & Assistant Secretary
Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 12 and 19, 2025.
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:
IPS
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
2727 GRAND PRAIRIE PKWY WAUKEE IA 50263
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.
CSDZ,LLC
2727 GRAND PRAIRIE PKWY WAUKEE IA 50263
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: February 21, 2025
Signed: S. Christian Nelson, VP & Assistant Secretary Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 12 and 19, 2025.
BUDGET TOWING PUBLIC NOTICE
The following vehicle must be claimed by 3-25-2025 or it will be disposed of or sold: Blue 1978 Buick Riviera VIN- 4Z37K8H582081 Budget Towing Inc, St.Paul, MN 55102, 651-771-8817
Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025.
CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING ORDINANCE 2025-01-01 APRIL 8, 2025
NOTICE is hereby given that the City Council of Birchwood Village will hold a public hearing, to provide for taking of public comment on Ordinance 2025-01-01, An Ordinance Amending Section 310 of the City Code Titled “Administrative Appeals,” not before 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the Birchwood Village City Hall, 207 Birchwood Ave, Birchwood, Minnesota. A copy of the proposed language is available at City Hall. Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025. CITY OF MAHTOMEDI
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
2025 STREET AND UTILITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT SAP 219-108-002
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bids for the construction of the 2025 Street and Utility Improvement Project will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Mahtomedi will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 1.507.473.4847 and entering Meeting ID 989 7117 3667 and Passcode 188531. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening. The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of the following approximate quantities:
6,900 SY Full Depth Reclamation
2,060 TON Bituminous Pavement (All Types)
325 LF 12” Storm Sewer Pipe
1,390 LF 8” Watermain (Directionally Drilled)
25 LF Concrete Curb and Gutter
0.4 ACRE Boulevard Restoration
13 EACH Remove and Replace Signs
The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Mahtomedi shall comply with the provisions of the statute. Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www. questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #9551410 on the website’s Project Search page. The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources. Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.
The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days. For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.
DATED: March 12, 2025
BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Scott Neilson
City Administrator, City of Mahtomedi, MN
Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 12 and 19, 2025.
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 1st day of April 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 minimum lot and dimensional standards for the property generally located north of 89th St and east of Ideal Ave N (PID 2103021220010), Grant, MN.
Km Points, Administrator/Clerk
City of Grant, Minnesota
Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025.
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 1st day of April 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 Minor Subdivision (lot split) for the property located at 11225 Julianne Avenue North, Grant, MN.
Km Points, Administrator/Clerk
City of Grant, Minnesota
Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025.
CITY OF MAHTOMEDI
ASSESSMENT NOTICE
Important Information Regarding Property Assessments
This may affect your 2026 property taxes.
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Mahtomedi shall meet on April 2, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at Mahtomedi City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether taxable property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the assessor, and also to determine whether corrections need to be made.
If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If you are still not satisfied with the valuation or classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization. The board shall review the valuation, classification, or both if necessary, and shall correct it as needed. Generally, an appearance before your local board of appeal and equalization is required by law before an appeal can be taken to your county board of appeal and equalization. For more information, call the Washington County assessor’s office at 651-430-6175.
Given under my hand this 19th day of March, 2025
Jerene Rogers, City Clerk City of Mahtomedi
Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025.
CITY OF PINE SPRINGS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Pine Springs City Council will hold a public hearing on April 8, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter, at the Mahtomedi Public Works Office, 1250 Lincolntown Ave. Mahtomedi, MN.
Consideration of a vacation of a portion of the public right-of-way easement over a property located in the Northwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 5, Township 29N, Range 21W lying North of the Northerly right-of-way line of the Soo Line Railroad.
Applicant/Property Owner: City of Pine Springs
Property Location: Southwest Quadrant of Highways 36 and 694
Property Identification No.: PID: 0502921320006
Pertinent information about this request is available for viewing at the Office of the City Clerk.
Oral testimony will be accepted on the above subject, and all persons desiring to be heard on referenced subjects will be heard at this meeting. Written comments may be sent to the City of Pine Springs, P.O. Box 487, Willernie, MN 55090. Questions may be directed to the City of Pine Springs at (651) 770-5720.
Posted: March 13, 2025
Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 19 and 26, 2025.
CITY OF PINE SPRINGS
ORDINANCE NO. 31 V 2.0
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING CODE TO ADD USES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT, AMEND SIGN REGULATIONS, AND REMOVE RIGHT-OF-WAY REGULATIONS
On February 4, 2025, the City of Pine Springs adopted an ordinance for the purpose of establishing and regulating an Industrial District in the city, bringing the sign ordinance up to date with case law, and removing redundant right-of-way language. The Ordinance defines types of cannabis and hemp businesses; establishes lot and setback standards for the Industrial district; establishes permitted uses within the industrial district; regulates signs, such as permitting, advertising signs like billboards, in the industrial district;adds permormance standards specific to cannabis and hemp businesses; and adds performance standards for all uses in the industrial district. The Ordinance also clarifies permitting noncommercial sign, like political signs, and prohibitions on obsene signs. Finally, restrictions on structures in the righ-of-way are removed as deemed redundant to Ordinance No. 31 v. 2.0.
A printed copy of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at the office of the City Administrator or by standard or electronic mail.
Victoria R. Keating, Administrator
Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025.
CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS LAKEWOOD HILLS PARK TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS CITY PROJECT NO. 25-04
Notice is hereby given that the City of White Bear Lake will receive and accept bids ONLY through QuestCDN.com via their electronic VirtuBid online bid service until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 for the furnishing of all labor and materials to complete trail improvements at Lakewood Hills Park.
include
forfeited as liquidated damages if the bid is accepted and the bidder fails to promptly provide the required additional documents or enter into the contract. The successful bidder must be a “responsible contractor.” The term “responsible contractor” means a contractor as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 16C.285, subdivision 3. Any prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that does not meet the minimum criteria or fails to comply with the verification requirements is not a responsible contractor and is not eligible to be awarded a construction contract for the project or to perform work on the project. A prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that makes a false statement under oath verifying compliance with the minimum criteria will be ineligible to be awarded a construction contract on the project, and the submission of a false statement may result in termination of a contract awarded to a prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that submits the false statement. A prime contractor shall include in its verification of compliance a list of all of its first-tier subcontractors that it intends to retain for work on the project. Before execution of a construction contract, a prime contractor shall submit a supplemental verification under oath confirming that all subcontractors and motor carriers that the prime contractor intends to use to perform project work have verified to the prime contractor, through a signed statement under oath by an owner or officer, that they meet the minimum criteria for a responsible contractor.
The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive irregularities and informalities therein, and to award the contract in the best interest of the City. Bids submitted after the deadline will be rejected. No bidder may withdraw its bid within sixty (60) days after the scheduled closing time for the receipt of bids.
The City Council will consider such bids at its regular scheduled City Council meeting held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
PAUL KAUPPI, P.E.
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER
WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA
Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025.
MINNESOTA POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY (MPCA)
PUBLIC NOTICE OF INTENT TO ISSUE A STATE DISPOSAL SYSTEM (SDS) PERMIT
Draft Permit Number: MN0072010
Applicant: Liberty Classical Academy 10158 122nd St Hugo, MN 55038-9428
Public Notice Issued: March 14, 2025
Last Day to Submit Comments: April 14, 2025
Description of Permitted facility:
The Education, Liberty Classical Academy (Permittee) has applied for issuance of a State Disposal System (SDS) Permit to complete construction and operate a wastewater treatment facility (facility) located in Washington County, Minnesota.
The facility discharges from (WS 003) to land via a drainfield. The facility is a Class C. The facility is designed to treat domestic wastewater from a school that services a maximum of 850 students and 150 staff and:
• an average wet weather (AWW) flow of 0.025625 million gallons per day (mgd);
• five-day carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand (CBOD5) of 37.3 pounds per day (lb/day);
• total suspended solids (TSS) of 21.8 lb/day;
• ammonia nitrogen of 21.8 lb/day.
The facility will be constructed over 2 phases. The final proposed design flow for Phase 1 is 10,375 gallons per day (gpd) and Phase 2 is an additional 15,250 gpd. A total permit flow of 25,625 gpd is proposed.
Phase 1:
The system will consist of a raw sewage pump with surge tank, flow meter manhole, 20,000 gallon two compartment septic tank, 20,000 gallon equalization tank, MBBR treatment train including two 20,000 gallon tanks. MBBR treatment tank 1 includes 10,000 gallon pre-anoxic zone with effluent return, 5,000 gallon aerobic zone, and 5,000 gallon nitrification zone. MBBR treatment tank 2 includes a 6,500 gallon anoxic swing tank with carbon addition, and two 6,500 gallon clarification tanks with sloped bottoms, 12,000 gallon dosing tank, and 10 individual mounds.
Phase 2:
Construction of additional 20,000 gallon two compartment septic tank, 20,000 gallon equalization tank, an additional MBBR Treatment tank 1 includes 10,000 gallon pre-anoxic zone with effluent return, 5,000 gallon aerobic zone, and 5,000 gallon nitrification zone, and 11 individual mounds.
The MPCA has tentatively decided to issue the SDS permit described above for a term of approximately 10 years. A draft permit is available for review at the address listed below.
For more information on the draft permit or public comment process, contact: Laura Lacquement
Municipal Division Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 714 Lake Ave, Ste 220 Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 218-846-8116
laura.lacquement@state.mn.us
Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 19, 2025.
WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #624 2399 CEDAR AVENUE, WHITE BEAR LAKE, 55110 NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Independent School District #624, White Bear Lake Area Schools, White Bear Lake, Minnesota, will receive sealed bids for: PARTIAL ROOF REPLACEMENT
WHITE BEAR LAKE HIGH SCHOOL – NORTH CAMPUS
Until 9:00 A.M. April 4, 2025, at the White Bear Lake Public Schools, District Center, Building Operations office, 2399 Cedar Avenue, White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110 at which time and place all bids will be opened and read aloud in the board room. Bidders are invited to attend. Bids received after 9:00 A.M. will be returned unopened.
A Pre-bid meeting will be held at White Bear Lake High School – North Campus, 5045 Division Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN at 9:00 AM on March 28, 2025. Contractors are to meet at main entrance. Bids shall be upon bid forms provided within specifications. No oral, telegraphic, or telephonic proposals or modifications will be considered. Separate envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked (PARTIAL ROOF REPLACEMENT WHITE BEAR LAKE HIGH SCHOOL – NORTH CAMPUS) with the name and address of the bidder and the date and hour of the opening, addressed to Kevin Fernandez, Director of Building Operations.
The complete form shall be without alterations, additions, or erasures, all bids must be on a lump sum basis. White Bear Lake Area Schools reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or parts of such bids and to waive any informalities or irregularities in bidding.
Bidding documents, including the Bid Form, Drawings and Specifications, will be available upon request by email to Andrea Noonan, RSI Building Envelope andien@roofspec.com. The copies will be available March 12, 2025. The following information must accompany the request: Contact name, email, Company name, mailing address, street address, and phone numbers. Hard copy sets will also be available for pick up upon request.
Each Bidder must accompany his bid with a Cashier’s Check, Bid Bond, or Certified Check equal to 5% of the total amount of the Bid payable to Independent School District #624 as a guarantee of prompt execution of the contract in accordance with the Proposal and Contract Documents.
The successful bidder will be required to furnish satisfactory Labor and Material Payment Bond, and Performance Bond.
Bids may not be withdrawn within sixty (60) days after the scheduled time of opening bids, without the consent of the School Board of Independent School District #624 of Minnesota.
Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 12 and 19, 2025.
$7 million keeps township from falling through cracks
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The state of Minnesota recently awarded White Bear Township $7 million in funding earmarked for infrastructure projects, specifically street improvements.
“I’d like to give a public thanks to Heather Gustafson, Scott Dibble and retired representative Frank Hornstein,” said Town Supervisor Chair Ed Prudhon. “These are elected representatives that lobbied for us to get this money … We’re always playing catch-up with our surrounding communities, so this is a big deal for us.”
Townships, according to state statute, are ineligible for both city and town local government aid (LGA). Simultaneously, White Bear Township is ineligible for rural township LGA because of its proximity to Saint Paul. That means even though the city of Little Canada has a comparable population to White Bear Township, the former will receive more than $400,000 in LGA
MAHTOMEDI CITY COUNCIL NOTES
• One trail that won't be happening is a trail from 955 Warner Avenue behind residents' homes and through St. Jude's parking lot to connect with the Streetcar Trail on Fir Street. Instead, the trail that will likely be constructed is a trail connecting the Streetcar Trail from Fir Street along the newly reconstructed Mahtomedi Avenue. The owners at 955 Warner Avenue approached the city to offer a first refusal to buy their property at a discount. This property that won't be bought by the city would have accommodated a trail from Juniper Street to Fir Street. The Parks Commission advised against the purchase due to the many easements the city would need to acquire, several mid-street pedestrian crossings the city would need and heavy construction costs. “We'll be given money for 244, so we don't need to spend money on this,” Council Member Jeff Charlesworth said, following a discussion. “I can't justify putting a trail behind the people's homes and through St. Jude's when we're already spending money on 244,” said Schneeweis, after council directed staff to reject the proposal.
• No one will have to wait very long for road improvements to Briarwood Road. Following a public hearing, council passed a resolution ordering public improvements for the 2025 street and utility improvement project and authorized preparation of final plans and specifications. The road at the center of the project will be Briarwood Avenue from Hallam Avenue to Quail Street, said Project Manager Amanda Sachi of WSB. The work will entail full-depth reclamation, which will include milling off the existing base, performing utility work, compacting and grading the subgrade and installing a new bituminous surface. There will be new water main maintenance and storm drainage piping added from Quail Street to Harmony Drive. A catch basin will be added at Briarwood and Hallam, as well as other upgrades. Total costs for the project will be $845,815, which will be paid from four sources. State Aid funds will provide $$405,699; the city water utility fund will contribute $325,052 and the storm sewer fund will add $66,619. The remaining $47,445 will be covered by special assessments to adjacent property owners at a rate of $6,325 per unit. A single-family corner lot with improvements will be assessed for half a unit. Bids for the project will open in March; the contract will be awarded in April. Construction will start in April or May and, if all goes according to plan, be completed in September. The assessment hearing will take place in October.
in 2025 while the latter is not even on the Minnesota Department of Revenue’s list.
White Bear Township falls into a similar predicament in regard to state tax revenue. For 2025, Minnesota apportioned $1.2 billion for its county highway and municipal state aid user funds, into which gas, car repair and vehicle registration taxes feed. A township’s portion of this money is calculated by miles of township road within the county. White Bear Township is Ramsey County’s only township, and it is separated into four noncontiguous sections. According to Prudhon, White Bear Township’s share of that $1.2 billion was $17.
Town Supervisor Steve Ruzek noted that Gustafson, Dibble and Hornstein understood these issues, which is why they lobbied to award the township $7 million. “They helped us,” continued Ruzek, “and it’s going to help our long-term future.”
Town Supervisor Beth Artner added, “I was really happy about it when it happened. I, too, have to say I’m grateful.”
• Council approved 2024 budget transfers to close two funds – the 2024 street improvements (fund 524) and water supply improvements (fund 551). The first transfer of $498,062.45 comes from the general fund to the interim construction fund (fund 551), water supply improvement. The second set of transfers, totaling $1.7 million, was taken from the water fund (601), sewer fund (602), storm sewer fund (604) and street improvement fund (405); all these transfers will go to the 2024 street improvements projects fund (604). “It's been a big year with a lot of projects to close out, where last year there were none,” said Finance Director Scott Schaefer.
• The six-month probationary period for public works department mechanic Josh Sjolander expired on Feb. 12. Public Works Director Bob Goebel recommended council acknowledge the completion of Sjolander’s probationary period and adjust his compensation accordingly. “Josh has been a great addition. He's knowledgeable and has taken ownership of the mechanic bay. If he can't fix something, he knows who to call to figure it out,” Goebel said.
• In 2024, the city received a $125,000 shade tree bonding grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to remove trees infected with emerald ash borer, grind the stumps and replace each tree. A bid packet was released in December 2024, and the successful bid for work on 67 trees came in at $48,938.34 from SavATree. Approximately $20,000 still remains in the grant project budget assigned to the tree removal and stump grinding task, necessitating another bid release. City staff were looking for permission to bid out the leftover $20,000. The second bid packet approved by council includes a list of 35 ash trees that are already marked. Among the list of qualifying factors includes the stipulation that contractors must complete all the work by Aug. 31. The grant began in 2024 and will continue through Dec. 31, 2027, or until all granteligible work is complete.
• From 2017 to 2021, the city was unable to collect $217,684.57 in ambulance services it provided and has voted unanimously to write off these uncollectible ambulance receivables, per staff recommendation. Collection efforts have been exhausted, and there is no need to keep them on the books at this time, Schaefer said. The city writes off these receivables every year for the past three to four years, he said. It is a receivable in the general fund, so the city writes off the amount as a bad debt expense. No budget impact will be associated with these write-offs.
Loretta Harding
The township board approved a policy stating the township will withdraw 150% of the interest accrued yearly, using it to lower bond amounts needed for street improvement project bids. This, in turn, will lower debt payments along with associated tax levies. “We’re currently not going to use it for any of the assessments,” clarified Finance Officer Tom Kelly. “By putting it towards reducing the bonds that we issue, it affects everybody in the Township … We ran [a projection] over 30 years, and [the principal] was still doing just fine.”
Prudhon also stated that this policy can be renegotiated in the future. “Maybe, if we didn’t do road projects for two years, we could spend more the next couple of years,” he gave as an example.
Town Administrator Patrick Christopherson said, “I think everyone agrees that it’s a responsible use of some timely funds for the township … for mundane but very important projects that need to be completed to keep us a top-tier suburb.”
WHITE BEAR CITY COUNCIL NOTES
• Several annual business and liquor licenses have been renewed for April 2025 through March 2026. New liquor licenses were issued to: Elegant Event Center LLC (dba Elegance Venue); The Wild Bohemians (dba Keys Café & Bakery), United WBL LLC (dba White Bear Liquor), CAPL Retail LLC (dba Express Lane and Joe’s Kwik Marts).
One establishment, Sam’s Club, located at 1850 Buerkle Road, failed a compliance check in 2024 and was issued an administrative citation. Follow-up has been conducted with the establishment to ensure a procedure is in place for verifying the age of purchasers.
New tobacco licenses were issued to United WBL LLC (White Bear Liquor), CAPL Retail LLC (Express Lane and Joe’s Kwik Marts). One establishment, Holiday Station Store located at 1800 County Road F East, failed a compliance check in 2024. The City Council is notified if a business has two consecutive failures with consideration, then given a temporary suspension of its license.
New massage licenses were issued to Soul Chiropractic and ChiroPatrick.
New retail licenses to sell edible cannabinoid products were issued to United WBL LLC (White Bear Liquor), CAPL Retail LLC (Express Lane and Joe’s Kwik Marts) and The Minnesotan Productions Co (dba The Minnesotan). City licensing for edible cannabinoid products will remain in effect until the state’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) becomes the issuing authority and issues its own business licenses. The OCM
is expected to start issuing licenses sometime in 2025. One establishment, MNJ Tobacco Inc (dba MNJ Tobacco), failed a THC compliance check in 2024.
A couple of changes were made to charitable gambling licenses, including Merrick Inc., which will conduct charitable gambling at The Alchemist. The White Bear Lake Lions Club withdrew its gambling license from Washington Square Bar & Grill.
• The city has awarded a contract totaling $179,400 to Forest Lake Contracting Inc. for the municipal well No. 3 generator installation. The project will be financed through the city’s water fund.
• The City Council has directed city staff to order the plans and specifications for the downtown parking lot reconstruction project in 2025. The downtown street project is expected to take place in 2026. (See full story in this week’s issue.)
• A reminder to residents that the Real ID deadline is approaching (May 7). City Manager Lindy Crawford said the License Bureau is “seeing an uptick” in people coming through its doors. Residents can save time by filling out the pre-application form online prior to their visit.
• The public is invited to offer comments online on proposed changes to the city’s zoning code. Visit www.whitebearlake.org/ communitydevelopment/ project/zoning-code-update for more information or to leave comments.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, at City Hall.
Shannon Granholm
Township residents approve ‘worst-case-scenario’ 2026 tax levy
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Residents recently voted to approve the preliminary 2026 White Bear Township tax levy of $7,307,500, an 11.82% increase over 2025’s preliminary budget.
The driving factors behind the higher levy amount are contract increases. The 2026 fire contract will increase over 12% while the sheriff’s
contract will increase over 16%. Other factors include park improvements, sealcoat expenses and employee health-insurance costs.
“This is a worst-case scenario,” stated Finance Officer Tom Kelly. “We use conservative revenue estimates and worst-case expenditures.” This number is now the legal ceiling the township can levy for 2026. The final levy, which residents approve this December, will likely be lower. 2025’s
final levy, for instance, shrank by $400,000 from its preliminary number.
According to Minnesota statute, every township must hold an annual meeting in March, presenting next year’s preliminary budget and estimated tax levy. Unlike municipalities, whose budgets are drafted and approved by town or city councils, a township budget must be presented to eligible township voters.
If those who attend vote yes to the
proposal by a two-thirds majority, the plan passes.
The citizens of White Bear Township will vote on final levy approval at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road. They will also vote on 2027’s preliminary levy approval at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the same location.
Early spring green-themed activities
Above: Members of the Brian Boru Irish Pipe Band perform a couple of
in downtown White Bear Lake. It was one of several area
Above: Young members of the Rince Na Chroi Irish Dance troupe demonstrated quick steps and high kicks during a performance in downtown White Bear Lake leading up to St. Patrick’s Day. It was the first year of a Hootenanny event at the Minnesotan featuring a lineup of live music and Irish themed performances. Earlier in the day, above right and below, dozens of local residents donned green attire and accessories before
Shamrock runs in nearby Centerville.
51st Annual Northern Lights: A Tale of 2 Sculptors Upcoming events
Writer’s Speak: An Open Mic Night for the Community
White Bear Center for the Arts
March 27, 6:00-8:00 PM
All are welcome to join your fellow writers and the White Bear Lake community for an open mic night. Share your latest work, test new ideas, or simply soak in the words around you.
Into To Silver Soldering: Stackable Rings
White Bear Center for the Arts
April 19, 1:00-4:00 PM
Learn the basics of silver soldering, including safety, work area set-up, and how to use a hand-held butane torch, to walk away with your own stackable silver ring.
Noah Sonie: Mentalist & Magician
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center
Saturday, March 29, 7:30 PM
Noah Sonie, a rising star who appeared on “Penn & Teller: Fool Us!” and mesmerized audiences on “Masters of Illusion,” presents a mind-reading and magic experience unlike any other.
Mick Sterling Presents: Beautiful Vision-The Essential Songs of Van Morrison
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center
Saturday, April 5 , 7:30 PM
The songwriting genius of Van Morrison is celebrated in grand form in this tribute concert, featuring the most popular of his songs such as “Brown Eyed Girl,” and “Wild Nights."
You can find a full list of classes in WBCA’s quarterly printed catalog and online at WhiteBearArts.org/ classes.
For over half a century, the Northern Lights Juried Art Exhibition at White Bear Center for the Arts has illuminated the creative journeys of artists living in Minnesota. Since its debut in 1974, this prestigious exhibition has fostered an environment of both challenge and solidarity for local artists, giving them a chance to showcase their works and receive recognition for outstanding work.
George GI Moore
One artist who has been there since the beginning is George GI Moore, whose history with the exhibition spans decades.
George, a 3M Chemist by trade, first submitted to Northern Lights’ inaugural exhibition in 1974 with his sculpture, “Dancing Lady,” a skeletal human figure carved from walnut. Since the ‘80s, he has submitted almost every year.
Having sculpted for 70 years, he’s now deemed a veteran artist, but there was a time when even George was a beginner. Through the course of his education as a chemist, he took no time for art education and was mostly self-taught. Inspired by early 20th-century European sculptors and, most personally, by his grandfather, George Read, an accomplished wood sculptor.
Having lived in Birchwood in the 1970s, he was well acquainted with White Bear Center for the Arts, or the White Bear Arts Council as it was known then. Over the last 51 years, he’s earned thirty acceptances and numerous awards. For George, Northern Lights isn’t just a place to showcase his work but a chance to engage with artists and be inspired by the creativity in the gallery. “The show is a highlight of the arts year in Minnesota and attracts many excellent artists and judges,” George said in conversation with WBCA. His presence in the exhibition is a testament to the dedication to his craft, and he said the entry deadline encourages him to finish a few good pieces every year.
Dan Volenec
This year, the exhibition brought forth a new voice: Dan Volenec, whose piece “Carapace” won this year’s Best of Show award. As an artist whose primary medium is painting and drawing, “Carapace” stands out among his work. A sculpture that is a delicate balance of strength and grace, the 4-foot tall lapis blue turtle shell shimmers with gold veins and weighs only about 7 pounds.
On the night of the Northern Lights Community Reception, Dan was called up to receive his award and stood patiently while he heard the judges’ praise and feedback. But before he walked back to take his seat, he exclaimed, “Wait!”
“I have a message for everyone,” he continued. “I attempted this piece 10 years ago but failed. Now, ten years later, it’s winning a Best of Show award.” He ended with telling the crowd, “Don’t give up!”
In a conversation with WBCA, Dan recounted his first attempt at making “Carapace” a decade ago. “I had cut the [shell] segments as flat pieces. If you’ve ever tried to take flat pieces and turn them into a curved object, you’ll discover that they no longer fit together in 3-dimensional space the same way they fit in two dimensions.” But he didn’t give up, instead, he adapted. “I put the idea aside but kept thinking about the problem.” Encouraged by his friend and fellow sculptor Dennis Kalow, who is also featured in this year’s Northern Lights, he eventually returned to the project. For Dan, “Carapace” is more than just a sculpture, it’s a personal victory. “I’ll admit it was an ego boost to see it come together and no longer feel defeated,” he said. “Having learned much during this trial and error, I’m eager to continue this form of fabrication.”
These stories reflect the spirit of Northern Lights, an exhibition that not only celebrates the finished products but also the journeys that artists take to create these works of art. WBCA’s Ford Family Gallery becomes a place where you can find stories of struggle, growth, and success celebrated through every piece displayed.
As this year’s exhibition prepares to come to a close, it’s clear that the Northern Lights Juried Art Exhibition continues to shine as brightly as the day it began. As George put it, “It’s equally stimulating to be accepted and to mix with the other artists,” a celebration of art in all its forms, inspiring both artists and viewers to keep pushing the bounds of their creativity.
The 51st Northern Lights Juried Art Exhibition is on display in White Bear Center for the Arts’ Ford Family Gallery until March 27.
Flips gymnast earns spot on national team
BY BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Tatum Drusch, a gymnast for nearly all of her 16 years — “ since I was 18 months old” — recently qualified for a national team.
At the Elite Winter Cup, Drusch, who trains at Flips Gymnastics in White Bear Lake, placed first on balance beam and fourth all-around, Feb. 21-22 in Louisville, Kentucky.
“Because of her high placing at that meet, the US National Team coaching staff honored her with a spot on the US Senior National Team,” reported Lori Roskoski, co-owner of Flips with husband Bart. “Tatum will be attending a selection camp in April in hopes to represent the United States at the Jesolo Games in Italy in April.” That camp will be held April 5-9 in Tennessee. She will also compete in the U.S. Championships, for the third time, in New Orleans in August.
“Making the National Team fulfills a lifelong goal and is my top achievement in gymnastics so far,” said Drusch. “I was thrilled to find out I will be part of the national team.”
The White Bear Lake sophomore said her top previous feat was placing second in allaround at US Classics as a Junior Elite.
“Winter Cup was my best meet as a Senior
Elite,” Drusch said. “Floor was a strong start to the competition. I made all my passes and accomplished what I needed to. Vault felt really good, along with sticking my bar dismount at the end of my routine. I was really happy about my strong finish on beam, closing out the meet and getting the all around score I needed.”
Drusch scored 13.85
on beam, and 52.55 allaround. Her winning beam routine includes a round-off layout step-out mount, and a split full twist leap, both rated very high for difficulty. Her other scores were 13.65 on vault, 12.8 on bars, and 12.25 on floor exercise.
The 5-foot-4 athlete said she started gymnastics at 18 months when her father took her to Flips classes “to burn off my energy.”
And she’s never left. The daughter of Allison and Doug Drusch, she’s the lone gymnast in the family. Her sister Ivory was Bears golf team captain as a senior last year and placed 20th in the state tournament.
up
poor bite, missing teeth, problems with eating, bad dentures, or an unattractive
They just don’t realize that modern dentistry can offer options to more economically improve function, comfort, and cosmetics.
Mini Lyrical Senior Hip Hop
Harley Ogata
73, died 3/4/25 from cardiac arrest. He died quickly and without suffering, as he always hoped he would.
Survived by spouse Christina (Hugo), daughter and son-in-law Carly and Max (WBT), grandson Samuel (Little Canada), sisters Robin (Montana) and Jody (Florida), and his large and loving village of friends and family.
Join us at Keller Golf Course Event Center on Tuesday, April 29, from 2-6 pm for a “Harley Day” open house. Please send memorials to organizations that work for health and peace.
Obituaries celebrate and honor unique lives.
(Full Name)
Years and age listed here followed by the names of family members, life accomplishments, places traveled, jobs held, or descriptions of what was important to the person the obituary is about.
To Submit an Obit
Call 651-407-1250
Email obits@presspubs.com
Visit us at 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN
John A. “Gus” Blanchard III
Beloved husband, father, grandfather John A. Blanchard, III (“Gus”) died in North Oaks, MN on March 10, 2025 after a wonderful life that ended in a battle with Lewy Body Dementia. He was 82. He is survived by his wife, Mary Blanchard, two daughters and sons-inlaw, three grandchildren, his brother, and many others who loved him. A memorial service will be held at 11.:00am Friday, March 21 at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, with visitation one hour prior. A livestream of the service may be viewed on Gus’ obituary page at www.bradshawfuneral.com
Charlotte Elvina Jensen
Born August 21, 1932 Died March 8, 2025 Born in Polk County, Wisconsin to Theodore and Sadie Eckerson. Preceded in death by her husband Clarence N., sisters Marilyn and Carol; brothers Jim and John. Survived by her children Michael (Renee), Judy (Geoff) Kaufmann, Jeri (Roger) Stoddard, Mark (Annmarie), Karen (David) Stellmach and Clare (Sondy); 21 grandchildren and 24 greatgrandchildren. Visitation was held Monday, March 17, 2025 at HONSA FAMILY FUNERAL HOME. Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at COMMUNITY OF GRACE. Interment at Roselawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements by Honsa Family Funeral Home. 651-429-6172
Florene K. Dougherty
Age 84, of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. Survived by her sons, Chuck, Jeff and Steve (Lori); grandchildren, Stephanie (Chad), Erica (Axel), Jodi (Kirk), Derek (Amanda) Kacie (Pat), Kellie (Jake), Charlotte, Victoria, Jessie (Baylee), Lexie, and Levi; 16 great-grandchildren; twin sister Joanna (Dr. Robert) Liggett, and younger sister Elaine (Frank) Mace. Florene was the Valedictorian of the Circleville High School class of 1958 and the 1962 Sweetheart Queen of Ohio State University. She received her Master’s Degree from St. Thomas University. Florene loved to travel, all animals, working and volunteering and most of all her family. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 AM, Friday, March 21, 2025 at WHITE BEAR LAKE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 1851 Birch Street, White Bear Lake, with a visitation one hour before the Service at Church. Interment, Lakeview Cemetery, Mahtomedi. The Service for Florene will be live streamed at https://tinyurl.com/ ytsaxe6m
HELP WANTED
workers for
and June. Duties include helping customers and plant care. Plant knowledge is helpful. Hours and days are flexible. Employee discount on your own purchases. Great job for flower and veggie lovers! Call Steve at 651.429-3361
OPERATIONS OFFICER Northern State Bank - Thief River Falls is hiring: $125k$150k Hybrid/Remote. Qualifications : 5-10 ye ars of operational banking experience, management experience. Send resume: employme nt@nsbtrf.com
MIDD LE SCHOOL PRI NCIPAL (Grades 5-8) Ne w LondonSpicer Schools. MN Administrator licensure required. For more info rmatio n, see: www.nls.k1 2.mn.us/e mployment
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to a ssist the blind and visually impaired. Ar range a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Herita ge for the Blin d Today at 844.220.9501 today!
DON'T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for an yone who struggles on the stairs is co ncerned about a fall or wa nts to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide toda y! 866.852.5506
SAFE STEP North America's #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FR EE shower pa ckage and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today! Finan cing available. Call Safe Step 833.96 6.3882
WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142
WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs No fuss Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys H ouses: 844/978-06 83
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Como Zoo in her name. Honsafamilyfuneral.com, 651-4296172
7.49 +/- ACRES with 1,000 m/l feet shoreline on the Crow Wing River (Wadena County) 3 bed/3 bath home an d outbuildings Adjacent to over 650+ acres of state land! Selling to sett le an estate Online only auction Bidding closes 4/16. Mossy Oak Properties - Mississippi Valley Real Estate 763/300-5055
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call
NATIVE AMERICAN: Event celebrates rich traditions
districts and Many Faces understand the long history of Indian Education, which guides this wonderful event.”
The Native American Celebration will begin with a traditional tobacco ceremony to welcome attendees. Visitors will then explore workshops and learning stations. At 11 a.m. all guests will gather in the gym for a powerful performance by the Twin Cities Intertribal Drum and Dance Troupe, featuring traditional dances such as Jingle, Fancy, Chicken, Grass and Traditional.
Following the performance, an honoring ceremony will recognize graduating students, allowing attendees to extend their congratulations. The ceremony will conclude with an Intertribal dance, inviting all in attendance to participate and celebrate together.
Cultural and educational workshops will continue to take place throughout the day, featuring a Ikidowin Youth Theatre performance, lacrosse demonstration with John Hunter, beading workshop with Winona Kitto and a peer-to-peer tobacco workshop.
Learning stations will also provide education on a variety of cultural and historical topics,
IF YOU GO:
NATIVE AMERICAN CELEBRATION
When: Saturday, March 22; doors open at 10 a.m. and the main program kicks off at 11 a.m.
Where: Mariner Middle School, 3551 McKnight Road N., White Bear Lake
Details: The free, family-friendly event is open to all and is made possible through grants from the Minnesota Humanities Center, the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation, the Ford Family Fund of the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation, Redeemer Lutheran Church (White Bear Lake), White Bear Lake Rotary Club and First Presbyterian Church (Stillwater).
Contact: For more information, contact Tracy Pierre (tdaypierre@gmail.com) or visit manyfaceswblarea.org.
including wild rice, traditional tobacco, maple syrup tapping, smudging, medicinal practices, Indian education and powwows.
For more information, visit manyfaceswblarea.org.
Liberty Classical Academy seeks MPCA permit
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Liberty Classical Academy (LCA) says it has “identified a path forward” with May Township that will allow it to proceed with construction of the next phase of its expansion project, provided it receives the necessary permit from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA).
“This has been a long time coming, but we are excited to be able to announce this outstanding news,” Headmaster Rebekah Hagstrom wrote in an email newsletter sent out earlier this month.
subsequently revised its plans so that a CUP was no longer required from the township. However, LCA remains subject to all MPCA permitting requirements for its underground septic system, which is the only portion of the project located within the township. The township maintains its actions were lawful and proper in all respects and will continue to vigorously defend this litigation.” LCA is currently seeking a 10-year permit from the MPCA. A draft permit is available for review online at www. pca.state.mn.us/get-engaged/ publiccomments.
“There has been no settlement in this matter, and the litigation remains active.”
LCA owns approximately 37 acres in Hugo and 45 acres in May Township along 122nd Street. LCA also leases space at the Church of St. Pius X in White Bear Lake. LCA wants to construct a 33,500-squarefoot addition to the existing school and associated parking. The stormwater management facilities and septic systems are proposed to be located in May Township.
Paul Reuvers Attorney, May Township
LCA received approval of a site plan and conditional use permit (CUP) from the city of Hugo, but May Township denied the CUP for the stormwater management facilities and septic systems.
Last September, LCA filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court against May Township for enacting an interim ordinance for a moratorium on the establishment of institutional and nonresidential uses and any facilities within the Rural Residential (RR) zoning district.
“We now have three hurdles down and one to go,” Hagstrom detailed in the emailed newsletter. “We have the unanimous approval from the city of Hugo, the Brown’s Creek Watershed District permit for the holding pond and now May Township is satisfied with our plan for the septic system, as well … Prayers for the final hurdle — the MPCA permit.”
Press Publications reached out to LCA and May Township to find out more about the resolution of the school’s plans in May Township.
“While May has verbally acknowledged certain conditions under which LCA may move forward, May is simply acknowledging the law as it stands — not compromising its position for agreement,” said LCA Attorney Brandon Carmack. “We are negotiating formal resolution of the case with May; until that negotiation is finalized — and likely even thereafter — we will not be able to comment on the substance of such negotiations and agreement.”
According to May Township’s attorney, Paul Reuvers, “There has been no settlement in this matter, and the litigation remains active.” Reuvers added, “LCA’s initial expansion plans, as submitted to the township, required a CUP. Due to inconsistencies with the township’s Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance, the township enacted a moratorium and denied the CUP application on that basis. LCA
Along with providing comments on the draft permit, members of the public can also petition the MPCA to hold a public informational meeting or to hold a contested case hearing. A public informational meeting is an informal meeting during which interested persons can ask questions to MPCA staff concerning the proposed facility. A contested case hearing is a formal proceeding before an administrative law judge who is empowered to advise the MPCA regarding issues of fact.
Comments may be submitted online at https:// mpca.commentinput.com/comment/search or by U.S. Mail (Laura Lacquement, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 714 Lake Ave., Suite 220, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501.) Those who wish to provide comments on the draft permit should submit comments by 4:30 p.m. April 14.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.
The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of
American Legion Post 507 celebrates 100th anniversary
BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Although Kramer-Berg American Legion Post 507 officially celebrated its 100th birthday on March 15, its birthday party will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 6, in the Dugout Bar event room, 96 Mahtomedi Avenue.
American Legion Post 507 was chartered in 1925 as the Julius Kramer Post 507, honoring a native son of Lincoln Township, as the Willerie-Mahtomedi-Pine SpringsGrant area was called then. Kramer died serving our country in World War I. Following the end of the next war, the post was renamed to add another honored native son, Roger Berg, who died serving in World War II. Julius Kramer was born in 1894 and joined the 341st Infantry Regiment on June 26, 1918. After he was wounded Oct. 28, 1918, in Meuse, France, during the Battle of the Argonne, he died the next day. He is currently buried in the Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery. Less is known about Roger Berg, except that he was born on Dec. 27, 1918. He joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1940 and served as 1st
Lieutenant. Berg died on Feb. 10, 1942. In 1928, Kramer-Berg American Legion Post 507 started the practice of giving paper poppies to the public in exchange for a voluntary donation. The red four-petaled crepe poppy of Flanders Fields is the memorial flower of the American Legion and Auxiliary. The Legion collected $9 that first year, said Teri Richardson, American Legion Auxiliary secretary. These days, the poppy drive has been known to bring in more than $1,000 during one campaign, she said.
In the early days, the Legion and Auxiliary held dance parties with card games to raise money by charging a dime to play or dance. That first year, the Legion made $14. Since 1946, Kramer-Berg has been a significant source of charitable giving, donating more than $2.4 million to community, youth, education and veterans programs.
Kramer-Berg American Legion Post 507 was chartered in 1946, marking its establishment as a local chapter of the American Legion. Post 507 held its first parade that year. Over the years, the Legion has been a presence at the annual Memorial Day parade, Punkinmania and Veterans Day services, all culminating at Veterans
Memorial Park (Triangle Park).
In addition to monetary support, Kramer-Berg has provided fellowship for veterans and their families, as well as life-giving emotional support to veterans dealing with posttraumatic stress disorder and other difficult mental health issues. In their "Be The One" program, Legion members conduct buddy checks to see if their buddy is OK. If not, the buddy sees to it that someone gets over to the troubled veteran immediately, Richardson said.
The women's auxiliary also makes quilts for veterans. Don't be surprised if a quilt is given away at the 100th birthday celebration.
Members of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) also attend legislative sessions to advocate for benefits on behalf of veterans. Benefits for sufferers from burn pits and Agent Orange were earned by the work of the Legion and VFW, Richardson said. "It's our job to help the veterans," she said.
The Legions also sponsor the Eagles Healing Nest project, to which the community donates monthy to house veterans.
Currently, Kramer-Berg American Legion Post 507 has approximately 46
IF YOU GO:
100TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
When: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, April 6
Where: Dugout Bar event room Details: The community is invited to an open house celebration. Enjoy food, door prizes, memorabilia and fellowship.
members, and the American Legion Auxiliary has approximately 43 members. The Legion meets on the second Tuesday of each month at A Cut Above the Rest, 319 Stillwater Blvd., and the Auxiliary meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the same location. Richardson invited any veteran who is eligible to join the American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Everyone in and near the old Lincoln Township community is invited to come celebrate their American Legion's milestone at the free open house at the Dugout Bar. There will be food, door prizes, displayed memorabilia and community fellowship to enjoy.
Over the years, the Legion has been a presence at the annual Memorial Day parade, Punkinmania and Veteran’s Day services, all culminating at Veterans Memorial Park (Triangle Park).
Julius Kramer
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Roger Berg
AROUND TOWN
1. Mahtomedi Middle School students recently participated in the State Science Bowl. The team of eighth graders Cole Tanner, Jacob Robinson and Robert Befidi and sixth graders Gus Smith and Elliott McDonough took two wins during the competition and nearly advanced to the finals through a tense tiebreaker round. — Mahtomedi Schools, contributed
2. The Minnesotan hosted a St. Patrick’s Day Hootenanny Saturday, March 15 featuring live performances throughout the day. — Carter Johnson, Press Publications
3. For the last several years, an anonymous street artist has written messages with drawings that inspire and delight all those who walk Wolgamot Trail in Mahtomedi by the Depot Creek Covered Bridge and Streetcar Park on Quail Street. — Liz Schmitt, contributed
4 & 5. Scouts From Mahtomedi Troop 89 and volunteers Don Rotter, Carrie Fernandez and John Pasch clean up the park at Bellaire Beach. Contributed
6. Royce Granholm greets Snoopy outside of the Hanifl Performing Arts Center. — Shannon Granholm, Press Publications
7. This view over Bald Eagle Lake was captured on camera March 12. — Beth Artner, contributed
Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to whitebearnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.
Bears lose to Maple Grove, Brainerd at state
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
White Bear Lake was, in a word, overmatched, when the Bears took on No. 1 ranked Maple Grove in the first round of the state tournament.
The Bears fell behind 18-2, then made a nice run late in the half to close within 34-22. Maple Grove (27-2) dominated the second half and put the Bears away 7136 at Williams Arena. Michigan State recruit Jordan Ode led with 27 points and seven rebounds.
“I thought we came out and made some nice plays, but we missed a bunch of layups,” said coach Jeremy Post. “When you are that overmatched, you’ve got to hang in there early and make them feel like they have a chance to lose.”
But this was a No. 1 seed against a No. 8.
“It’s hard to hang in there the entire game against that kind of talent,” Post said. “We were a little overmatched at every spot.”
The Section 4AAAA champion Bears lost in the consolation round to Brainerd 68-63, finishing the season 20-11. Maple Grove lost in the finals to Hopkins and finished 28-3.
Elise Dieterle pumped in 18 points for the Bears. Addison Post added eight. The other points came on three-pointers by Maddy Thompson and Gabriella Hartzell, two free shots by Chloe Theissen and a field
goal by Abby O’Brien.
The Bears got within 12 at the half as Dieterle sank 12 points, including two three’s, Post made four acrobatic layups, and the Bears had some solid defensive rebounding.
“When you hit some shots you feel better, and you make some stops on defense, too,” Dieterle said.
But Maple Grove started the second half with a 13-0 run and opened a 71-29 lead before clearing the bench. They got 34 points from senior triplets Lexi Hanna (17), Addie Hanna (10) and Bella Hanna (seven).
“I thought White Bear Lake played hard the whole game,” said Ode. “They never gave up. Our press bothered them a little but they never gave up.”
Post, playing in her second state tournament, said it was a nice bonus to reach state again after winning
New Bears coach hails from track hotbed
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Seton Foster is a native of Oregon, which explains the 59-year-old businessman’s lifetime devotion to track and field.
“Track in Oregon is like hockey in Minnesota,” declared White Bear Lake’s new boys coach.
“Track is three seasons a year there.”
The Beaver State has long been known to be crazy about track. Oregon and Oregon State are both Diviasion I powers. Nike is based in Beaverton and holds its prestigious national high school track and cross country meets at Eugene.
“I’m just about 60, and I ran my first race in 1974, so I’ve been in track for a long time,” said Foster, who started practices with the Bears on March 10, succeeding longtime coach Tom Paulson, who retired.
Foster grew up in Aloha, Oregon, where he was a sprinter and long jumper in track and played football. After graduating from Portland State, he started his coaching career at Aloha when his younger brother was playing. The two of them eventually moved to Minnesota. In recent years, Foster
was an assistant track and football coach, and speed and strength coach, at Spectrum High School in Elk River.
“Then the opportunity at White Bear Lake came along and I am so tickled to be here” said Foster. “It’s a dream come true. It won’t be easy to follow a legend like Tom Paulson, but he has been very helpful and supportive.”
Foster, who makes his living in real estate, appraisals, home inspections and renting residences, has operated a summer and winter track-and-field club for nine years.
Drawing from his Oregon roots, he started Minnesota Multi in 2016 for his daughter, who attended Forest Lake.
“I couldn’t find a good track club for her, so I started one.” It’s located in the Ramsey area. “We have sprints and jumps, too, but we specialize in offering events that high schools don’t have, like decathlon, pentathlon, heptathlon, javelin, hammer throw, super weights.”
Several state champions in those events, and in MSHSL events, have trained there, Foster said. He will continue to operate the club and is thinking about “moving it east” to this area. It’s free for the kids, who only pay for equipment and renting facilities, as he and other coaches who help him volunteer their time.
Brian Peloquin, White Bear Lake activities director, made the hire last fall.
WRESTLING
their section as the No. 3 seed. “It means a lot, because we really had no expectations of going to state this year,” she said. “We had kind of a whole brand new team, and then we had Elise join us, so it was really fun making it this year.”
Against Brainerd, Dieterle had another standout game, The 6-foot-1 senior transfer from Stillwater scored 24 points including 5-for-8 on three-pointers, while logging nine rebounds, four assists, four steals and two blocked shots.
Post and Theissen scored 12 points each and Abby O’Brien six, all of them 4-for-4 on free shots. The Bears were 17-for-21 at the line with Dieterle 5-for-9. They were also 10-for-21 on three’s, with Post and Theissen making two each and Marin Peterson one.
Three Mahtomedi wrestlers made Metro East all conference team — senior 215-pound Evan McGuire (510), 121-pound junior Aidan Carlson (42-9) and 172-pound freshman Aidan Boex (31-14). All were state qualifiers. McGuire was a state champion and Carlson placed fourth. Getting honorable mentions were juniors Sam White (160) and Owen Eigen (145). Team awards went to McGuire (outstanding wrestler); senior Evie Karle, sophomore Alex Cepress and Eigen (most improved); Olivia Tofte and Grayson Saterback (rookies of the year); and Carlson (Zephyr Award). The team got a MWCA team academic Gold Award with a 3.6 GPA.
GYMNASTICS
Metro East champion Mahtomedi had eight all-conference picks: seniors Grace Tronrud and Addison Briske, juniors Lucy Otto and Addison Eitel, and freshmen Margo Bruner, Lily Bush, Adele Schroeder and Cassia Hartmann. Team awards went to Lucy Otto (MVP), Lily Bush (most dedicated), Ava DeZelar and Lily Bush (most improved), Tronrud (Zephyr Spirit) and Schroeder (Unsung Hero). Lucy Otto was the lone state qualifier, placing 14th on floor exercise.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Rithy Sain
White Bear Lake Basketball March 19, 2025
Rithy Sain was one of the main reasons White Bear Lake boys basketball improved to 14-12 this year after going 3-26 last year. The explosive 6-foot-1 guard capable of soaring dunks averaged 10.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals. Sain scored 11.3 points per game as a junior. A three-sport athlete, he was a wide receiver in football, making 13 catches for 205 yards. He’s a sprinter and long jumper in track, and went to state in the 4x200 relay last spring.
ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS
Seton foster
PHOTOS BY BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
White Bear Lake starters Chloe Theissen, Abby O’Brien, Elise Dieterle, Maddy Thompson and Addison Post show excitement during introductions at Williams Arena.
Elise Dieterle, who sank 42 points in two state games, was hemmed in by Sophie Anderson (34) and Alyssa Baranick (11) while Jordan Ode looked on.
Bruce Strand
An avenue that Mahtomedi can call its own
BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Mahtomedi Avenue/TH 244 may be called Mahtomedi Avenue, but the city of Mahtomedi is not in charge of the major thoroughfare that runs through town. The state of Minnesota is in charge, hence the Trunk Highway 244 designation.
That will no longer be the case when the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) turns the road over to the city, as is expected to take place within the next couple of years.
For decades MnDOT has been eager to give away Trunk Highway 244/ Mahtomedi Avenue and not so eager to put in the safety improvements craved by so many,
After the Mahtomedi City Council passed a resolution entering into an agreement with the state for a turnback of TH 244 to the city, TH 244/Mahtomedi Avenue will likely become just Mahtomedi Avenue.
“It seems like it’s been two years that (City Engineer) John Sachi and I have sat through negotiations (with representatives from MnDOT),” said City Administrator Scott Neilson.
The city of Dellwood's withdrawal from the project created some of the
delay, but in the end provided clarity.
Construction costs of turning back 244 from the state to the city are expected to be $7.5 million and cover work on Mahtomedi Avenue from the western tip of Triangle Park to 35 feet north of Tamarack Road.
The state will reimburse the city $7,509,196 for construction expenses, and the agreement outlines the conditions of the disbursal of those funds.
MnDOT must file for legislative approval to make the turnback and its reimbursement official.
were to spike, the city could ask for more funds. “The state giving the city this road is a huge relief for them,” Sachi said. “Even though they're giving us $7.5 million, they have been wanting to give us this road for a long time, and they don't want us to absorb the cost.”
“This is a major undertaking; we’ve been talking about it a long time — for more than a year.”
Richard Brainerd Mayor of Mahtomedi
MnDOT will put the $7.5 million into a State Aid account, from which the city will ask for reimbursements after work contracts are issued and plans have been submitted. The funds for turnback construction costs will be available to the city starting in the spring of 2026.
Although the maximum authorized eligibility under this agreement is $7.5 million, this amount may be increased by amending the agreement. For example, if the price of oil for asphalt
Although the city can ask for more money if unforeseen expenses come up, it cannot ask for more money for things like streetlights or flower baskets. The city is allocating money to construct a sidewalk, but the city doesn't necessarily have to install one, Sachi said.
Council did discuss installing a sidewalk or trail along the new Mahtomedi Avenue that would connect the Streetcar Trail to Fir Street.
If the city starts construction on Mahtomedi Avenue prior to its eligibility to withdraw funds in 2026, it has already budgeted half a million dollars from its capital improvement projects fund. MnDOT has the funds to disburse, but approval to do so must come from the Minnesota Legislature, Sachi reminded
council.
With responsibility comes control. Although Public Works Director Bob Goebel and his plow crews will have to start plowing this road starting in spring 2026, the city gets to make the decisions moving forward about what goes on, along and under the road.
When it is turned over to the city, Mahtomedi Avenue will remain a State Aid Highway, which will bring in state dollars to the city for its care.
“I hear so often how downtown has been improved, but it would be nice if the street that runs through us can be a little more quaint,” said Council Member Jane Schneeweis. “And it would be ours. We give so much preference to the public, and they'll be involved every step of the way.”
Two days after council signed the turnback agreement with the state, the city held an open house so members of the public could see the preliminary plans for the new road. Approximately 60 citizens attended to provide their own input. The public can continue to provide input by sending an email to mahtomediave@wsbeng.com
“This is a major undertaking; we've been talking about it a long time — for more than a year,” said Mayor Richard Brainerd.
