Dozens of participants recently joined VFW Post 1782 and Auxiliary members for a walk in recognition of the 22 veterans who die by suicide every day. The walkers started their approximately 2.2 mile journey at the VFW at 2:22 p.m. The event was organized by Deb Courts-Brown, an officer for the Auxiliary of VFW Post 1782, to call attention to a serious subject and also to offer suicide prevention resources including when to seek immediate help from a health care provider or call 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Veterans can dial “1” after 988 to be connected to a person specifically designated to help veterans. Find more information at vfwpost1782.org/suicide-awareness.html.
Wig coverage mandatory; many hurdles remain
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
“It’s a long time coming,” Kim Schoonover said.
The owner of Indulge Salon, Spa and Wigs in White Bear Lake is referring to the Health Supplemental Budget and Policy bill, which now requires private health insurance companies to cover the costs of hair prosthetics (wigs) for people who have lost their hair due to a medical condition. Previously, alopecia (hair loss) was covered, but not when it was caused by cancer treatments.
“A lot of clients don’t know about it. There's something missing in the system … somebody is not telling their patients that this is a possibility,” Schoonover explained. “I'll meet with them, and I'll say, ‘Have you checked with your insurance?’ and I get this blank stare.”
She estimates that about half
MINNESOTA WIG COVERAGE, PAGE 9
Bacchus family mission continues to thrive
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Almost four years ago, Randy and Heather Bacchus’ son, Randy Bacchus III, tragically took his life in Colorado while suffering from cannabis-induced psychosis. Since then, both parents have made it their mission to spread awareness of the dangers of marijuana and THC usage. Today, neither that mission nor the drive behind it has changed its meaning or slowed down.
“The fact of the matter is, marijuana is not good for you,” said Randy. “It’s legal for those 21 and older. We like to get out and educate people because we feel it’s that important.”
Their son struggled significantly with learning, anxiety and impulse control, and began using marijuana at age 15. “School wasn’t his favorite thing,
but he studied really hard and at the end would always come out with good grades,” said Heather. “He was artistic, creative and hard-working.”
After he began using, both parents noticed a stark change in his behavior. This continued after he moved to study at the University of Colorado Boulder, which Heather described as “lots of ups and downs, anger, threats. We were trying to love him and support him, but he became paranoid, delusional and had these grandiose behaviors. What we didn’t know was that it was psychosis.”
Following many attempts at rehabilitation, as well as career changes (including an attempted rap career), these ups and downs culminated with a text sent to Heather at 1:26 a.m. July 17, 2021: “My attitude with the music and everything has been way too self-righteous. I’m done with the music. I’m quitting weed for good
BACCHUS FAMILY, PAGE 15
The Bacchus family. From left daughter Anna, son Randy, daughter Brooke, mother Heather, father Randy and daughter Sabrina.
Urban Ice Anglers comes to White Bear Lake
BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kids these days will likely grow up without an ice fishing experience. Karl Erickson, founder and director of Urban Ice Anglers (UIA), is working really hard to change that—and turn those young people into better environmental stewards in the process.
The Urban Ice Angler Project aims to get 10,000 kids out to fish through the ice in one winter. On February 5, 6 and 7 this year, the students set up on the south side of White Bear Lake, passing the 2,000-participant mark in the process. Participating schools included O.H. Anderson Elementary of Mahtomedi, Lakeaires Elementary of White Bear Lake and Metro Flex Academy of North St. Paul.
On hand to help was the Ramsey County Sheriff Water Patrol Unit.
“This is one of our lakes and we do a lot out here, so I got people from my unit that are going to be out here the next three days. Set up, take down … and I guess fixing rods is part of the deal!” joked Acting Commander Mike Servatka, as he worked to retie lures onto lines.
Servatka said his unit does not get the chance to attend education events often, and that they were eager to help. He learned about UIA’s days on White Bear, and didn’t hesitate to jump in.
“Ramsey County Sheriff was a partner last minute and it was super helpful,” said Erickson. “It takes a village of us from schools, law enforcement, teachers, parent volunteers, other nonprofits.” Collaborating nonprofit organizations
On The Lake
March Calendar 2025
on White Bear included Baztec and Ardent Outdoor Group.
As always, money is tight in the nonprofit world. Erickson said overall funding for UIA came from a grant by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources No Child Left Inside program, but helping the other nonprofits has been tough. Another problem is that coordinating and funding transportation happens on a case-by-case basis. Some schools provide their own buses, some find sponsors and some end up missing out because they can’t.
Despite funding and other difficulties, UIA continues to reach kids by the hundreds. Reception to the program has been very positive. Katie Swarthout, science teacher at O.H. Anderson, said her students had been talking about it for weeks beforehand. “We had one group catch a fish and they were so excited. They’re just really jazzed to be out here,” she said.
One house erupted when fourth grader Noah Olson caught the only fish during the 10:30 rotation on Feb. 5. “I’ve never ice fished before!” he declared, smiling.
This fun and memorable field trip was actually education in disguise. Swarthout said the outing meshed perfectly with some of the things they’d been learning this year. “There are so many things about animals and habitats, and watersheds, and things like that in the third through fifth grade science standards. We just did a big unit on animals with third grade, so it really fits in there.”
Erickson was also clear on the lessons he wanted kids to take with them, whether they caught anything or not. Before they set foot on the lake, he gathered them to talk through ice safety, the fish species in the lake, what a watershed is, and more.
“That’s the victory—kids being comfortable and enjoying this experience, because we want more kids to take interest in the outdoors and taking care of the watershed,” he explained. “I want every kid who walks away thinking about less salt on the sidewalks, picking up their dog leftovers, not bringing trash out here and leaving it behind—all the things we expect from all the anglers out here. So we want them to grow up making those choices from the get-go.”
The first step in planting that ethic is getting kids to the lake. Erickson already has his eye on possible solutions. “We’d like to have a dedicated bus fund for this in a future year. So in the event that someone says they can’t make it, we have a donor that steps up or a fund we can pull money from. Because if your barrier is a bus, let’s get rid of that barrier.”
If barriers can come down, there might be no limit to the number of kids UIA can serve. For one thing, participating schools won’t be hard to come by. Erickson said every teacher has already said they would like to repeat the outing. If he doesn’t hit the 10,000-participant mark this year, having those schools lined up will build a foundation for 2025-26.
“Whatever our count is for this year is our starting point next year,” he said. “And then, how many other schools, how many other partners, how many law enforcement agencies can we get in to make it go?”
To learn more about UIA and watch its progress toward 10,000 kids served, visit www.urbaniceanglers.org.
Roy Heilman is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651407-1200.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
JURIED ART EXHIBITION
COMMUNITY RECEPTION
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27
Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.
Details: View selected works in a variety of mediums from local artists and hear from judges on their selection process. Exhibit runs through March 27. Contact: whitebeararts.org
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Lakeshore Players hosts
Century College Playhouse for their spring play, a comic drama about the nature of love and art. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org/ century-playhouse
CENTURY COLLEGE CONCERT BAND WINTER CONCERT
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28
Where: Mariner Middle School, 3551 McKnight Rd. N., White Bear Lake
Details: 50 member ensemble is comprised of Century students, alumni, and community members. Free admission.
Details: Ten games, food and beverages available for purchase. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. RSVP. Contact: ducks.org/minnesota#events
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 2
Where: 645 Warner Avenue, Mahtomedi
Details: Hike on the Gateway Trail followed by chili dinner. Contact: stpaulhike.com
WASHINGTON COUNTY PARKS FREE
TUESDAY
When: Tuesday, Mar. 4
Where: All Washington County Parks
Details: Free entry and no vehicle permit required at all Washington County Parks on the first Tuesday of the month. Contact: washingtoncountymn. gov/492/Parks
COMMUNITY LUNCH
When: noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, March 5
Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center Details: Food, conversation, ad live entertainment for residents of all ages. Registration deadline Feb. 26. Contact: communityed.mahtomedi. k12.mn.us
Lincoln Elementary PTA brings magic of ‘Moana Jr.’ to stage
“Moana the Musical Jr.” is playing at Central Middle School’s Community Auditorium in White Bear Lake next month.
The Lincoln Elementary PTA production is led by co-directors Sarah O'Gara and Kristina Sankey. This year, the spotlight will shine on 168 talented young performers as they bring the magic of “Moana Jr.” to life on stage. The Lincoln Elementary cast and crew consists of students in first through fifth grade led by a team of parent and teacher volunteers.
IF YOU GO
When: 6:30 p.m. Feb. 28 and March 1, and 2 p.m. March 2
Where: Central Middle School Community Auditorium, 4855 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Tickets are available at the door or online at bit.ly/WBLTheater Contact: Lincoln Elementary PTAAttn: Angela Rabbitt, 1961 Sixth Street, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 or lincolnptaproductions@gmail.com
From the sparkling wit of our glamorously funny crab, Tamatoa, to the charismatic energy of Maui, and the inspiring journey of our enchanting Moana, the production promises to be a vibrant celebration of storytelling, music and community.
Adapted for young performers, the musical includes favorite songs by Tony, GRAMMY, Emmy and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina, such as “How Far I’ll Go,”
“Shiny” and “You’re Welcome.” “Don't miss this unforgettable performance that showcases the incredible creativity and hard work of our Lincoln Elementary students,” said directors O’Gara and Sankey. “‘Moana Jr.’ is a testament to the boundless energy, talent and support of our amazing community.”
Lincoln Elementary PTA Productions
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Over 100 performers rehearse for the upcoming production of “Moana the Musical Jr.”
OPINION
Secretary of Defense
Peter Brian Hegseth is the first Minnesotan to become Secretary of Defense of the United States. The tie vote was broken by Vice President JD Vance.
Sec. Hegseth was raised in Forest Lake. He served as an infantry officer in the Army National Guard, achieving the rank of Major. He received the Bronze Star while in combat in Iraq in 2005. He voluntarily deployed to Afghanistan in 2014.
We know his parents well. His father, Brian, was a basketball coach and athletic director of Centennial School District. His mother, Penny, worked for an Omaha-based company which assisted corporations and churches using the StrengthsFinder assessment to evaluate their management teams. She was helpful to me at the Press with our leadership team.
Sec. Hegseth earned a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University in 2003. At Princeton, he joined the Army Reserve Officers Training Corp. In 2013 he earned a Masters of Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. His career path has included being a host on Fox News, an author and an executive of organizations that benefit veterans programs.
New idea for skateboarders
Recently at our Florida rental home in Cape Coral, we noticed a new power for skateboarders. Our young neighbor powered himself on his skateboard with a leaf blower. He was careful to watch for oncoming traffic on our residential street.
State government slow to start
The Minnesota legislature is finally up and running for the new year. A lot of time was wasted in trying to decide party leadership. There continues to be some questions about issues related to the election. Let’s hope there is a more cooperative spirit and results will be beneficial to all Minnesotans.
Online basketball
Spending time in Florida as a snowbird, we miss out on the spirit of attending our grandson’s Mahtomedi basketball games. It’s a great experience when all four grandparents can be with the parents in support at the live games. We loved it. However, thanks to technology we can get the games on our laptop.
It’s a small world
Last fall we were looking for a home or condo in the Fort Myers/Cape Coral area to rent this winter. Scott and Bridgette McConnell, who rent our boat slip at Sunnyside Marina in Stillwater, gave us a lead and connected us with Steve and Wendy Markert. They had just completed renovating a 1960s home in Cape Coral, which would be available Jan. 1.
We were pleased to find this four-bedroom home with a pool in a very quiet neighborhood. The landscaping and four tomato plants keep Kathy happy with gardening duties.
One day we had a problem with the pool pump circulating. I called Steve and he sent Mark Braun over the next day. I tried to introduce myself and Mark said, “You don’t need to do that, Gene. I’ve been reading your column for the past 20 years.”
Mark grew up on a vegetable farm in Vadnais Heights, went on to be a diesel mechanic, and now operates his own business and spends winters in Cape Coral.
Read the fine print
You already know that home and auto insurance rates have been climbing rapidly. The hurricanes and fires have been the major cause of insurance premiums rising faster than inflation for homes and business. I recommend you talk with your insurance agent and go over the policy details. Throughout the year insurance companies send out changes, but 90% of the policy holders don’t read the details.
Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications
Rotary: Building community and combating isolation
In a world where social media dominates but true connections feel elusive, the Rotary Club stands as a beacon of hope and community. Joining Rotary is not just about becoming part of an organization; it’s about joining a global movement dedicated to service, fellowship, and making a tangible difference in the lives of others including your own.
Movers & Shakers
Kevin Donovan
Make a meaningful impact: Rotary brings people together with a shared passion for addressing real-world challenges. From eradicating polio to providing clean water and improving literacy, Rotary empowers members to contribute to impactful projects. By joining, you become part of a collective force for good, changing lives in your community and beyond.
Strengthen your local community: At its core, Rotary is about helping where it matters most: in your own community. Whether it’s building accessible parks, mentoring youth, or supporting local businesses, Rotary equips you with the resources, connections, and inspiration to address local needs. Your involvement helps create a stronger, healthier, and more
• Limited to 350 words.
• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.
• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
vibrant community for everyone. Cure the epidemic of isolation and loneliness: Americans face an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation, according to an advisory by the past United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy. Loneliness can cause serious physiological conditions such as heart, disease, dementia, stroke, and depression. Modern life often leaves people disconnected, despite living in an increasingly connected world. Isolation and loneliness are not just emotional struggles; they’re public health concerns. Rotary provides an antidote: a space where you can forge authentic, face-to-face relationships with like-minded individuals. It’s a community of diverse backgrounds and experiences, bound by a shared commitment to service and camaraderie.
Foster lifelong connections: Joining Rotary is not just about what you give, it’s also about what you gain. Members consistently highlight the friendships they build as one of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the organization. These relationships transcend professional and personal boundaries, offering support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
Grow personally and professionally: Rotary offers opportunities to develop leadership skills, expand your network, and discover new passions. Through
• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.
• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
service projects, you’ll work alongside others to solve problems creatively and effectively. The skills and connections you cultivate as a Rotarian enrich every area of your life.
Be part of something bigger: Rotary's motto “Service Above Self,” reminds us that the best way to find fulfillment is by contributing to the well-being of others. As a Rotarian, you’re part of a global family 1.4 million members strong working in over 46,000 clubs worldwide. Together, you’re tackling some of humanity's most pressing challenges while fostering peace, understanding, and goodwill.
Joining Rotary is more than a commitment to serve, it is a pledge to connect. It’s a way to fight loneliness, strengthen your community, and make an impact in the world. By becoming a Rotarian, you not only improve the lives of others but also find deeper purpose and connection in your own.
Why wait? Take the first step toward a more connected, fulfilling life. The Rotary Club of White Bear Lake meets weekly on Wednesdays from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Rudy’s Redeye Grill. The Rotary Evening Club meets on the first Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at 4 Deuces Saloon.
Kevin Donovan is the Rotary Club President.
GUIDELINES
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.
• All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
About the Town
Gene Johnson
Congrats on awards
Congratulations on your five news awards from MNA. Personally, I enjoy your page layouts — they are fantastic! But even more, big kudos to the person who typesets your advertising — absolutely outstanding job! This from a retired typesetter.
Peg Feirtag White Bear Township
Dear Dr. K
You beat me. I had hoped to get my letter in before you wrote your piece in "Movers and Shakers." My bad. As usual your well-written piece reported the support and satisfaction of the community with the school district of which you are superintendent. I assume the Morris Leatherman Company was hired by the district to conduct the survey and report the results. Did they look into how our students compare with other districts in reading, math and science?
There is a lot of media buzz about the decline in reading, math and science skills of graduating seniors across the country, especially post covid.
I would like to know how our graduating seniors compare with other graduating seniors on a national level as well as a state level with schools of the same size. "Accountability" is also a media buzz.
Gregg "Whitie" Johnson White Bear Lake
Cumbersome renewal
I am writing to complain how cumbersome it was for me, and I'm sure for many others, to just renew my driver’s license. It took me six trips to three city halls to do this. They require "certified" birth certificates and "certified" marriage certificates, but do not offer those services in White Bear Lake.
I had to go to Forest Lake for my birth certificate and Plato Boulevard for my marriage certificate. I had my "real" marriage certificate, but it lacked a seal, plus spent long wait times in White Bear Lake. This is unacceptable.
Nancy Hansen White Bear Lake
More on data breach
I am expanding on Steve Jorissen’s recent letter to the editor regarding the data breach of the U.S. Treasury system. This illegal data breach now extends into the Internal Revenue and Social Security systems. The U.S. has privacy laws to protect our data, and they are being ignored. Your personal private data has been collected and downloaded by the DOGE team. Just think of what’s stored in the IRS and Social Security databases: your banking information, work history, your children’s data and your medical records.
In the past, the government guarded this data carefully because they understood how this data could be utilized and manipulated in the wrong hands. Elon Musk (an unelected individual) and the DOGE team now have all our data and have a goal to build the largest artificial intelligence database where the opportunities for manipulation are endless. As Mr. Jorissen stated, this is not a partisan issue. We should all be very concerned and contact our elected representatives to protect our data.
Roxanne Britz Vadnais Heights
Questions agenda
I just finished reading the opinion section of the Jan. 29 issue of the Vadnais Heights Press. Specifically, the opinion piece by George Kimball titled “Disapprove of Pardons.”
That letter was not only inflammatory but also deeply toxic. Choosing to accept and publish it—based on socalled “Credible Trump insiders” — exemplifies what is wrong with the current state of polarized politics in this country. Kimball even went so far as to quote President Trump allegedly saying, “F_ _k it. Release ’em all.” Do you truly believe it was appropriate or responsible to publish this?
Not only should you issue a retraction, but you should also seriously reconsider allowing Kimball to submit future letters. This is not about suppressing free speech — it is about being a responsible editor for a local publication. In my experience with this editorial staff, if someone submits an opinion piece — especially one that is this divisive and inflammatory — they are required to provide accurate and reliable sources. “Credible Trump insiders” does not meet that standard; it only fuels misinformation and deepens societal divisions. Publishing such material leads me to question whether this publication has an underlying agenda that does not serve all of its readers.
Patricia Youker Vadnais Heights
Preserve organizations
I cannot remain silent in a time of crisis. The recent drastic cuts made by President Trump to organizations such as USAID, WHO, UNFPA, the UN and many others are tragic. The goodwill and positive influence of the USA in global health and development is being severely diminished at a time when it is most needed.
Working in the field of global health, I have witnessed the good work of these organizations, with millions of families across the world benefiting from their work, and millions of lives saved or improved. Of note is that only 1% of the U.S. budget goes to foreign aid.
The U.S. is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. We are called upon to share our abundance (no matter your belief or value system) with others, both within our own country and in other countries. Their humanity is our humanity.
I am urging everyone, but especially our elected officials, to stand up to President Trump and Elon Musk and reverse these catastrophic decisions. And I hope everyone will write letters, make phone calls, speak out in public and ask Trump and Musk to tell the truth, obey the law and preserve these organizations and others that do so much to improve our country and the world and create goodwill between nations.
Carol Nelson, MD MPH White Bear Lake Board member, Rural Health Care Initiative
Don’t cut oak trees
If you care about preserving majestic oak trees in downtown White Bear Lake, please contact your City Council representative and ask them to save the trees. There are four bur oak trees in the public parking lot at the corner of Banning Avenue and Fifth Street near the Ace Hardware store. The city is leaning toward removing them to add a few parking spaces. These bur oak trees are over a century and a half old and are invaluable because they offer shade, cool hot summer days, filter and clean stormwater, provide beauty, reduce runoff, absorb air pollution, attract and feed birds, create a connection to nature and the human senses, and aid businesses by encouraging visitors to spend more time in our downtown.
Decisions about the upcoming downtown revitalization project are still being made, but changes to parking lots will likely begin this year, so this decision is imminent. A professional arborist on a recent inspection reported that three of the four trees are very in good health and are good candidates for preservation. The city should keep these three healthy trees.
These mature trees with their extensive canopies cannot be easily replaced. New plantings of young saplings would take several decades to offer even half of the benefits of the current trees. Let’s not be short-sighted and remove invaluable mature trees to add a few parking spaces.
Sheryl Bolstad
On wrong side of history
This is a humiliating time to be an American. Woodrow Wilson, FDR and Ronald Reagan would be angered to see the U.S. turn its back on democratic allies while cozying up to totalitarian dictators.
When I taught U.S. history, the curriculum included Chamberlain’s appeasement as Germany seized neighboring regions. We know how that turned out. Remarkably, neither Trump nor his followers seem to recall history as they appease Putin and badmouth NATO.
Yes, Europe should contribute much more to its own defense. But instead of transitioning to increased contributions, Trump switches allegiances and unites with totalitarian Russia. In what universe can any true American think this is OK?
Trump recently said, about the unprovoked Russian invasion of Ukraine, that Ukraine “should have never started it.” Even Republican leaders disavow that monstrous lie.
Trump parrots Russian positions. “Ukraine cannot join NATO and must give up territory.” “Zelenskyy must step down and allow new elections.” Seriously? Why isn’t Trump calling for Putin to allow free elections in Russia?
Insulting allies while cheering dictators, betraying Ukrainians fighting an invasion, and telling Palestinians they must leave their homeland so he can build skyscrapers and casinos in Gaza.
It goes against our entire history and the principles on which this country was founded.
Republicans and MAGA followers have sold their souls to the devil — to King Trump — and have betrayed our democracy. They are on the wrong side of history. Their grandchildren will ask what they did when an ignorant, power-hungry narcissist destroyed our system of checks and balances and ended America’s historic position as the dependable defender of freedom around the world.
What will they say?
New restaurant in township MC's Taco & Tequila is opening in White Bear Township at 1190 County Road J. The restaurant, which offers 60 different choices of tequila, 25 types of street tacos, and authentic, unique décor, will host an open house event from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. For more information and a menu preview, visit mcstacotequila.com.
Legislation introduced creating Office of Inspector General
Sen. Heather Gustafson (DFL-Vadnais Heights) has introduced legislation establishing an independent Office of the Inspector General, a first-of-its-kind office in Minnesota that will be tasked with ensuring accountability, transparency and integrity in the operations of state agencies and programs. The bipartisan bill is S.F. 856. “One of the most important responsibilities of state government is protecting the taxpayer dollar. That’s why it’s time we create an independent watchdog for Minnesotans that will identify and investigate potential fraud,” said Sen. Gustafson. “This Office of the Inspector General is a practical solution to ensure accountability, transparency and fiscal responsibility in state government.”
Gustafson’s bill would create a new, independent Office of the Inspector General with the authority to conduct audits, inspections, evaluations and investigations of state agencies and programs. The office would also be authorized to issue subpoenas, refer matters for civil, criminal or administrative action, recommend legislative or policy changes and issue public reports. The legislation establishes Jan. 1, 2026, as the day by which an inspector general must be chosen.
The proposal also lays out the minimum qualifications needed for the position of inspector general. Candidates must have a degree in criminal justice, public administration or a related field, at least 10 years of experience, and a professional certificate from the Association of Inspectors General. Current or former commissioners, agency heads or deputy agency heads are not eligible to serve within five years of their service in those roles.
An inspector general will be selected by the newly established Inspector General Advisory Council, composed of members selected by majority and minority leaders of the House and Senate, the legislative auditor, and a member selected by the superintendent of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
“With the Office of Inspector General in place, Minnesota would advance good governance and bolster our fiscal responsibility,” said Gustafson. “It’s time to take meaningful action this session to safeguard our shared resources and secure trust in public institutions. This proposal appeals to Minnesotans across the political spectrum who value accountability, efficiency and fairness. I’m eager to work with any lawmaker who shares these goals.”
The legislation is a bipartisan proposal, with two Republican co-authors and 3 DFL co-authors. S.F. 856 advanced out of the State and Local Government Committee on Feb. 11. The bill will now be heard in the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee at a future date.
White Bear Lake
George Kimball White Bear Lake
COPS&COURTS
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 Clara City man, 45, was arrested Jan. 19 in the 1100 block of County Road E following a traffic stop, where he was found to be driving with a canceled driver's license.
• A St. Paul man, 28, was cited for theft Jan. 19 after he was caught shoplifting from the Walmart store in the 800 block of County Road E.
• A St. Paul man, 23, was arrested for theft Jan. 19 after he was caught stealing merchandise from the Walmart store. The suspect was booked at the law enforcement center for misdemeanor theft.
• A Vadnais Heights man, 37, was arrested for domestic assault Jan. 20 in the 4500 block of Bramblewood Avenue after Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies were called out to the scene of a domestic argument.
• A license plate was reported stolen from a vehicle parked in the 500 block of Westfield Lane on Jan. 20.
• An animal reported injured and lying at the side of the road after being struck by a vehicle on Highway 96 and Rice Street on Jan. 22 turned out to be a large paper bag.
• A Vadnais Heights man reported his vehicle hit and damaged Jan. 22 while it was parked outside the Perkins restaurant in the 1000 block of County Road E.
• A Brooklyn Center man, 26, was arrested for DWI at 11:40 p.m. Jan. 23 on Edgerton Street and County Road
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Fraud was reported in the 1800 block of Sixth Street Feb. 12.
• Harassment was reported in the 2400 block of Elm Drive Feb. 12.
• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for a felony outstanding fifth-degree assault warrant in the 2700 block of Cedar Avenue Feb. 12.
• Officers assisted in arresting an attempted murder suspect from Aitkin County Feb. 12 near the 5300 block of Northwest Avenue.
• A parked vehicle was damaged in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Feb. 12.
• A St. Paul man was arrested for domestic assault and interference with a 911 call in the 3200 block of McKnight Road Feb. 12.
• Officers responding to a disorderly conduct call in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Feb. 13 chased one of the persons involved, a Burnsville man, who fled during an attempted traffic stop. He eventually crashed in St. Paul and was arrested.
• A person reported missing in the 1900 block of County Road E Feb. 13 was located and transported to the hospital.
• Officers responded to a civil matter between neighbors in the 4800 block of Woodcrest Road Feb. 13.
• Officers mediated a dispute between a Buerkle Road business and a customer Feb. 13. Officers responded to a dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Feb. 13.
• Theft was reported in the 3400 block of Century Avenue Feb. 14.
• A White Bear Lake man was arrested on an outstanding warrant in the 4800 block of Birch lake Circle Feb. 14.
• Fraud was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Feb. 14.
• Officers responded to a report of domestic assault in the 2000 block of
D after he was found slumped over inside his silver Subaru. He performed poorly on field sobriety tests and was taken to the law enforcement center.
• A 41-year-old Star Prairie, Wisconsin, man was arrested on an active warrant Jan. 24 on Edgerton Street and County Road E after he was found to have a warrant out on him from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for bail jumping and other alleged crimes.
• A Vadnais Heights man, 36, was arrested for DWI at 10:06 a.m. Jan. 25 after he was found passed out in the driver's seat of a running Honda CR-V in the 1000 block of County Road D. He later performed poorly on field sobriety tests and was charged by the prosecuting attorney.
White Bear Township
A Little Canada woman, 36, and a Minneapolis woman, 33, were cited and trespassed from the Cub Foods store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive Jan. 25 after loss prevention employees caught them stealing merchandise from the store. Deputies assisted the White Bear Lake Police Department Jan. 27 in responding to a vehicle that had partially broken through the ice on White Bear Lake near the 2400 block of South Shore Blvd. Deputies made contact with the vehicle's owner, who safely extracted the vehicle and arranged for it to be towed.
• Deputies at 8:10 a.m. Jan. 29 deployed a drone to document a vehicle partially submerged in White Bear Lake near the intersection of South Shore Blvd. and Bellaire Avenue.
Fifth Street Feb. 14.
A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 4600 block of Highway 61 Feb. 15.
• Theft was reported in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road Feb. 15.
• Officers responded to a dispute between family members in the 2400 block of Floral Drive Feb. 15.
• Officers responded to a dispute in the 3700 block of Highland Avenue Feb. 15.
• A domestic incident was reported in the 2600 block of Riviera Drive Feb. 15. Theft from a vehicle was reported Feb. 16 in the 4800 block of Highway 61.
• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI and domestic assault in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Feb. 16.
• Water patrol advised a fish house occupant of the loud noise ordinance Feb. 16.
• A license plate was stolen in the 4000 block of Highway 61 Feb. 17.
• Officers responded to a dispute between friends in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Feb. 17.
• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for domestic assault in the 2100 block of 12th Street Feb. 17.
• A suspect was taken into custody following a report of a robbery in progress in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Feb. 17.
• Officers responded to a report of a disorderly person in the 4400 block of Lake Avenue S. Feb. 17.
• Theft was reported in the 1800 block of Birch Street Feb. 17. Officers mediated a dispute in the 1800 block of Birch Street Feb. 17.
• Officers responded to a dispute in the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue Feb. 18.
• Officers mediated a dispute in the 3700 block of Highland Avenue Feb. 18.
• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 4500 block of Highway 61 Feb. 19.
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Birchwood
• A motorist on East County Line Road and Wildwood Avenue received a verbal warning Jan 26 for not possessing a valid Minnesota driver's license.
• A suspicious male in a vehicle with Colorado plates reported at 2:38 p.m. Jan. 30 on Hall Avenue and Jay Street for casing the area turned out to be a newcomer to the area who was looking around his new neighborhood.
Dellwood
• Deputies cited a motorist who failed to come to a complete stop at Dellwood Road N. and Heron Road N. on Jan. 27. The driver had pulled in front of the squad and almost caused a collision.
Grant
A girl, 17, was cited for speeding 81 mph in a posted 55 mph zone at 9:47 a.m. Jan. 29 on Manning Avenue N. and 80th Street N.
• A motorist in the 6000 block of Manning Avenue N. was arrested at 5:39 a.m. Jan. 31 for suspicion of DWI, after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a male passed out behind the wheel in a driveway. When deputies approached and woke up the driver, they noticed signs of impairment.
Mahtomedi
• A motorist on Wildwood Road and Wedgewood Road was cited Jan. 26 for failure to provide proof of insurance, after being pulled over for a brake light violation.
• After staff found an unknown female in the community room of a facility on Mahtomedi Avenue Jan. 27, deputies gave her a trespass notice and a ride to the nearest metro transit station.
• An employee of a facility on Long Lake Road reported a wallet stolen from the restroom Jan. 27. Multiple chages were made on the debit cards that used to be inside the wallet. A motorist was cited for failure to drive with due care Jan. 28, following a three-car rear end collision on
Hilton Trail and 70th Street.
• A Minnesota motorist was cited Jan. 28 north of Century College on Highway 120, for driving after cancellation and for hands free violation, after being pulled over for being on the cell phone.
• A motorist on Stillwater Road was cited Jan. 28 for failure to provide valid proof of insurance and for expired registration, following a traffic stop for the tardy tabs.
• While on patrol in the 1000 block of Wildwood Road Jan. 29, deputies observed a vehicle and trailer parked in a gas station with the trailer license plate coming up as stolen on the squad's mobile data computer. When deputies intiated the traffic stop, they discovered the trailer itself was not stolen, but its license plate was.
A smoking motorist was cited for littering Jan. 29 on Wildwood Road and Century Avenue, after deputes on patrol observed the driver throwing a lit cigarette out the driver's window. The driver admitted to the action.
Pine Springs
• A motorist on Warner Avenue S. and 62nd Street N. was cited Jan. 27 for failure to a complete stop at that intersection.
• A motorist on Hilton Trail N. and 70th Street N. was arrested Jan. 28 for driving without a valid driver's license, following a traffic stop for passing on the shoulder.
• A westbound driver was not arrested for DWI at 2:17 a.m. Jan. 29 on Highway 36 over Hilton Trail N., following a traffic complaint of excessively slow driving. Although the driver's speed ranged from 40 mph to 50 mph in a 65 mph zone, and deputies smelled an alcoholic beverage on the breath of the driver, field sobriety tests came back with negative results.
Willernie
• Deputies mailed a citation to a driver on Wildwood Road and Sargent Road following a Jan. 27 traffic stop for registration that expired in September 2023. Deputies cited another motorist at that same location on Feb. 1 for expired registration, permit violation and no proof of insurance.
Public agencies adopt online tool for cyber incident reporting
Minnesota’s new cybersecurity incident reporting law has already boosted awareness and improved communication about rising cyber threats targeting the public sector.
The law, which went into effect Dec. 1, 2024, requires public agencies to report cybersecurity incidents affecting their organizations. To comply, these agencies have started using an online tool provided by Minnesota IT Services (MNIT).
Since the tool launched on Sept. 30, public entities have submitted over 100 reports. It works closely with state and federal partners to support affected organizations with information and resources.
“Active participation is vital to strengthening the State of Minnesota’s defenses,” Chief Information Security Officer
John Israel said. “We appreciate the cooperation of organizations statewide as we work together to build a more secure future.” Gov. Tim Walz signed legislation in May 2024.
Entities required to report The law applies to a wide range of organizations, including:
• State public agencies
• Government contractors and vendors serving public agencies
• Political subdivisions, such as counties, cities and townships
• Public school districts, charter schools, intermediate districts, cooperative units and public postsecondary institutions
Minnesota IT Servic e
STUDENT NEWS
The following students were named to the Dean's list or received academic honors at a college or university in Fall 2024: Drake University: Isabelle McGraw of Mahtomedi. Minnesota State University-Mankato: Kristen Geib and Ryan Vingers, both of Dellwood; Emmerson Buckley, Kayla Eberle, Natalie Eisenhuth, and Nina Gillet, all of Mahtomedi; Hunter Hanson of Willernie; Amy Ansley, Oliver Harvieux, Kelvin Hill, Jeremy Kolb, Olivia Landgren, Joseph Marsh, Andrew Mudgett, Ally Peterson, Thomas Phan, Jane Posten, Jonah Sendagire, and Anna Sommerhause, all of White Bear Lake. Salve Regina University: Cecelia Bronson of Vadnais Heights.
South Dakota State University: Christine Atilade and Abigail Harper, both of Vadnais Heights; Clara Cunningham of White Bear Lake.
The following students graduated from a college or university in Fall 2024: St. Cloud State University: Nolan Pratumwon of Mahtomedi, Bachelor of Science, general business, cum laude; Melanie Lunda of White Bear Lake, Master of Science, educational administration and leadership. University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse: Rachel Chesley of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Arts, English; Abby Franta of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, elementary/middle education; Marissa Redenbaugh of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, archaeological studies.
MINNESOTA WIG COVERAGE:
of her clients have heard about the law change, but most don’t know the details.
Indulge has offered hair “toppers” since 2016. Many of her clients were dealing with thinning hair, so she started researching wigs to see what was out there. A year later, she started to see more clients coming into the salon who were losing their hair due to chemotherapy, so she began offering wigs.
“It was to fill a void and find something that I thought would help our clients, because they were looking and couldn't find anything that they felt worked for them,” she explained. Schoonover estimates about 70% of the clients that come in for wigs have alopecia.
“What I have found is that for a majority of them, losing their hair almost affects them more than going through the chemo treatment,” she said. “They don't feel like themselves, and I think by getting a wig, it provides a boost of confidence … You see what a change it makes for these women when they put something on that makes them feel like themselves.”
White Bear Lake resident Sara Markoe Hanson was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2023. She started chemotherapy in January and her hair was gone by February. At first, she was a little hesitant to get a wig, but someone recommended she visit Indulge. She thought the wig would be itchy, look fake and was worried about what others might think.
“I think I cried after I left because she (Schoonover) was so kind, helpful and honest,” Hanson recalled.
All Hanson could think about was looking “normal” for her daughter Emily’s senior milestones, hockey games, prom and graduation.
“I wanted to be able to not have that be the focal point,” she said. “The wig itself gave me the opportunity to be me in important times. That was a big deal.”
It also made her feel less like a stranger in her own body. “You can't taste your food … Every ounce of your being is being attacked or changed or feels different or hurts or tingles,” she recalled. “Everything from your fingernails to your teeth to your hair to your joints and your muscles … so to be able to have one piece that you can reclaim, it is not perfect, but it's definitely better.”
There are synthetic wigs, blends (a combination of synthetic and human hair) and human hair wig options. Schoonover says a good-quality wig can
Our much-loved border collie/blue heeler, Jasper, died suddenly in January in what should have been the middle of his life. Jasper had an aggressive, incurable lymphoma and had to be laid to rest. He was a friendly fella and also the smartest and most obedient dog ever. He was bouncy, playful, deeply devoted to us, and seemed to understand most of what we said. He had many canine friends and pee-mail pen pals on Lake Avenue. We miss him dearly. Jesse Okie and Mary Harrington
state now
private health
companies
range from $400 up to $2,000, depending on the type and length.
“There's a lot of people out there right now who could be getting (a wig) and are afraid because they can't afford it,” Schoonover said. The new law requires insurers to cover up to $1,000.
Hanson estimates she paid about $400 for her wig. Although her insurance covered a lot of things, it did not cover the wig. “If that was an option, it would have taken one more stressor off the table,” she said.
Hanson finished her chemotherapy in June, had surgery in July and is now cancer-free. Thankfully, her hair started to come back quickly after she finished chemo.
“I am happy for the patients to have one less thing to worry about, as a positive appearance aids in a positive outcome,” said Kathleen Fuery, owner of Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio in Roseville.
Because the legislation is so new, many of Fuery’s clients are running into problems when reaching
out to their insurance companies to inquire about coverage.
“A lot of insurance companies aren’t even giving people the right information,” she said, adding that many of the insurers have employees who either don’t know much about the change or are unaware of the Minnesota law since they are based in another state.
“I'm happy that this has finally come to fruition. I hope that more people find out about it and make use of it,” Schoonover said. “It's such a difficult thing to be going through. I'm glad this is an option now, and I hope that the insurance companies start to make it easier for people to use it.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
White Bear Lake resident Sara Markoe Hanson was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2023. She is pictured proudly wearing her wig, with her husband Jeff and daughter Emily, who graduated from White Bear Lake Area High School.
The
requires
insurance
to cover the costs of wigs for people who have lost their hair due to a medical condition. Above, Julia Osland, models a wig from Indulge Salon.
White Bear Lake ‘modernizing’ zoning code
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — The city has finished phase 2 and is entering phase 3 to update its zoning code.
Residents are invited to an open house Thursday, March 6, to learn more about the process and weigh in on the proposed changes.
“It has been a really thorough process,” said Nora Slawik, who is a member of the Community Advisory Committee (CAC).
The committee includes members from the City Council, Planning Commission, Environmental Advisory Commission, Housing Task Force, County Road E Corridor Committee and others from throughout the community who represent various economic development, transportation, education and arts and cultural interests.
Community Development Director Jason Lindahl explained that the city has tweaked its zoning code over the years, but it hasn’t done a “full-scale review and update” since the 1980s. “This is a more comprehensive look at updating the code,” Lindahl said.
The process began in September 2023. According to state law, all metropolitan cities are required to update their zoning regulations so they are consistent with their comprehensive plan. In this case, that would be White Bear Lake’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Other goals of the project include protecting and strategically growing the city; supporting economic development; increasing housing choices; transitioning to “place-based” zoning; and creating a modern, userfriendly code.
Phase 1 “discovery and direction” created the CAC along with several focus group meetings with individuals and developers. The city’s consultants then reviewed the city’s existing code, 2040 comp plan and other planning documents and developed a directions report, which provided an overall framework for major topics/things to look at in the code.
The directions report was provided to the public, and two open houses were held last April.
“Phase 2 was to create a draft of the ordinance but to look at it in three bite-size sections,” Lindahl explained.
“The goal of this is to make it all work better for both residents and developers that want to come in,” Slawik explained. “It is really what I would call modernizing the zoning code.”
Lindahl said the revised code will “be easier to use.”
Place-based zoning is a trend that is picking up across the country. Traditionally, zoning forecasts appropriate development types and patterns based mostly on use. Place-based zoning focuses on the look and feel of places, their form and character.
Key changes proposed for the residential zones include:
• New Lakeside Zones
• Expansion of Traditional Zone (previously R-4, now R-3)
• Dimensional changes to match existing conditions
• Accessory structures and garages simplified
• Accessory dwelling units to be permitted with
SCHOOL BRIEF
Liberty Classical Academy receives donation of Torah scroll
Liberty Classical Academy (LCA) recently held a dedication ceremony for a historic Torah scroll gifted to the school by Ken and Barbara Larson.
The Larsons have long been passionate advocates for Christian education. Following a family trip to Israel, they sought the unique ministry of gifting Torah scrolls to Christian institutions. A Torah consists of the first five books of the Bible handwritten on a scroll. The gift allows recipients the chance to research and learn from the sacred, religious relic firsthand. LCA is the second preschool12thgrade Christian school to receive a scroll from the family.
The city of White Bear Lake is in the process of updating its zoning code to align with its 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Residents interested in learning more should plan to attend one of two open houses Thursday, March 6.
standards (currently allowed with conditional use permit)
• Short-term rentals allowed as conditional use
“This will allow the city to function better,” Slawik said. “There will still be some people requesting variances, but there won’t be as much.”
Changes proposed for general development standards include consolidating, modernizing and simplifying accessory uses; creating clear, objective standards for building design in mixed-use zones; reducing parking minimums for some uses with a menu of further reductions based on context and introducing new bike parking; and updating the landscape/streetscape to ensure compatibility, increasing tree canopy and conserving energy and water.
City staff would be allowed to approve minor site plans and administrative adjustments affecting existing buildings and improvements; the planned unit development process would be required for any sites of 5 acres or more; and the number of public hearing notices would be increased to include mailing to owners/occupants within 500 feet (previously 350 feet).
Phase 3 of the public review phase kicks off in March with two open houses and an online comment period. (See if you go box for more information).
“We want to make sure people come and give input on what they are seeing,” Slawik said. “Come to the meeting, get involved, review and think about the work … Share your thoughts. We hope people feel invited to the process.”
IF YOU GO
What: Rezoning open houses
When and Where: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, March 6, at the Ramsey County Library, 2150 Second Street; or 5 to 7 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3770 Bellaire Ave.
Details: Meet with the zoning code project team to learn more about the progress of the project and share your feedback. Online comments will be accepted through March. Online comments will also be accepted at www.whitebearlake. org/communitydevelopment/project/zoningcode-update
Contact: Community Development Director, Jason Lindahl jlindahl@whitebearlake.org or 651-429-8562
After the public review phase, the adoption phase (phase 4), will include a hearing before the Planning Commission and two readings before the City Council. That process is tentatively scheduled to begin at the end of April but could be delayed depending on how much input is received during the public review phase.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
“Ken and Barbara have made incredible contributions to their community through various avenues, including business, faith and philanthropy. Their devotion to Christianity has been a beautiful example for us at Liberty, and it makes this gift all the more meaningful,” said LCA Headmaster Rebekah Hagstrom. “They
have been instrumental in their support for our school since its inception in 2003, and we are truly humbled by their generosity. For our faculty, staff and students to get to study the Lord’s word in such a sacred context is a treasured opportunity.”
BUSINESS BRIEF
The Golden Path hosts seminar for seniors
The Golden Path, a real estate group based out of White Bear Lake, will host a seminar called “Move with Simplicity, Purpose and Peace,” from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 15, at the Shoreview Community Center. The seminar will provide resources and answer common questions regarding the process of selling your home, the benefits of renting versus buying a house, and more. It will also provide the next steps for navigating the transition to downsize or move into senior living. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. For more information, call Sandy Erickson, a Realtor with The Golden Path, at 651-269-3487. The Shoreview Community Center is located at 4580 Victoria St. N.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Liberty Classical Academy held a Torah scroll dedication ceremony at its White Bear Lake campus on Wednesday, Feb. 19. The ceremony included a presentation from Ken Larson and a reading from Dr. Michael Wise of the University of Northwestern-St. Paul.
Mahtomedi basketball hosts Youth Night
ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Mahtomedi finished second in the Metro East after beating Two Rivers 54-51 and losing to champion Hill-Murray 66-61. Hill-Murray, ending Mahtomedi’s four-year reign, was 14-0, Mahtomedi 11-3 and Hastings 10-4. Against Two Rivers (15-10), Grace Prose notched 22 points and Anna Greene 15. Hill-Murray edged the Zephyrs, powered by Mya Wilson with 33 points. Prose sank 19 points, Greene 14, Emily Muetzel 12 (with 13 rebounds) and Ella Frazier 10. Mahtomedi’s Sarah Poepard, averaging 16.3 points, has missed six games with a shoulder injury. Mahtomedi (19-7), seeded third in Section 4AAA, will host North St. Paul on Wednesday at 7 p.m.
GYMNASTICS
Mahtomedi senior Lucy Otto, the team’s lone state qualifier, placed 14th of 40 entrants in floor exercise with a 9.2125 score in the Class A meet at Roy Wilkins Auditorium.
BOYS BASKETBALL
Mahtomedi nabbed two conference wins last week, improving to 15-9 overall, 11-3 in the Metro East. The Zephyrs beat Hill-Murray (5-18) at home 68-56, paced by Mark Graff with 25 points and Willie Roelofs with 23. Jacob Wilson added 13. The Zephyrs won 74-60 at Two Rivers (9-14), getting 25 points from Roelofs, 6-foot-7 sophomore, and 19 from Graff.
BOYS HOCKEY
Mahtomedi won its Section 4A opener against South St. Paul 5-0 at Aldrich Arena. Five players had a goal each: Laken Decker, Joey Pipes, Devin O’Donnell, Brock Gutterman and Will Seevers. Brayden Fuerst made two assists. Jackson Chesak in goal stopped 20 shots by the Packers (6-19-1). The No. 2 seeded Zephyrs (9-15-2) faced Highland Park this week while No. 1 Chisago Lakes faces Simley. The finals will be Thursday at 7 p.m.
Bruce Strand
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
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: German Car Support
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
480 OLD HIGHWAY 8 NW NEW BRIGHTON MN 55112
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
SCT LLC
480 OLD HIGHWAY 8 NW NEW BRIGHTON MN 55112
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: February 12, 2025
Signed: Cameron M Parkhurst
Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 19 and 26, 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:
The Cocktail Collective
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
751 MINNEHAHA AVE W, SAINT PAUL MN 55104
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
Feist Consulting LLC
751 MINNEHAHA AVE W, SAINT PAUL MN 55104
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: February 10, 2025
Signed: Jordan Feist
Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 19 and 26, 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:
Shadows of Raw
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
244 4TH ST E, APT 307, SAINT PAUL MN 55101
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.
Shades of Raw LLC
202 N
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: January 28, 2025
Signed: Sophia Ali Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 26 and March 5, 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: Gail at Home
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
1257 WATSON AVE SAINT PAUL MN 55116
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. worksimple LLC 1257 WATSON AVE SAINT PAUL MN 55116
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 8, 2025
Signed: Gail Fraser
Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 26 and March 5, 2025.
NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE PUBLIC NOTICE
THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: That default has occurred in the conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: May 16, 2022 ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $178,500.00 MORTGAGOR(S): Isaiah F. Smock and Sarah Mae Mager Smock, married to each other, as joint tenants MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Jay Dacey Mortgage Team Inc, its successors and assigns TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. MIN#: 101593310000016206 SERVICER: Nationstar Mortgage LLC. LENDER: Jay Dacey Mortgage Team Inc. DATE AND PLACE OF FILING: Ramsey County Minnesota Recorder on May 20, 2022, as Document No. A04947906. ASSIGNED TO: Flagstar Bank, FSB by an Assignment of Mortgage dated 11/08/2022, and recorded on 11/14/2022 as Document No. A04970756 Nationstar Mortgage LLC by an Assignment of Mortgage dated 11/11/2024 and recorded on 11/13/2024 as Document No. A05045628. LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lot 3, Bauer`s Rearrangement Record of Ramsey County, Minnesota PROPERTY ADDRESS: 860 Ohio St, Saint Paul, MN 55107 PROPERTY I.D: 072822340120 COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Ramsey THE AMOUNT CLAIMED TO BE DUE ON THE MORTGAGE ON THE DATE OF THE NOTICE: One Hundred Seventy-Nine Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Three and 13/100 ($179,633.13) THAT no action or proceeding has been instituted at law to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof; that there has been compliance with all pre-foreclosure notice and acceleration requirements of said mortgage, and/or applicable statutes; PURSUANT, to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: 10:00AM on April 10, 2025 PLACE OF SALE: 360 Wabasha Street N, Suite 111, St. Paul, MN 55102 to pay the debt then secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any actually paid by the mortgagee, on the premises and the costs and disbursements allowed by law. The time allowed by law for redemption by said mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns is 6.00 months from the date of sale. If Mortgage is not reinstated under Minn. Stat. Section580.30 or the property is not redeemed under Minn. Stat. Section580.23, the Mortgagor must vacate the property on or before 11:59 p.m. on October 10, 2025, or the next business day if October 10, 2025 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. “THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.” Dated: February 19, 2025 Nationstar Mortgage LLC Randall S. Miller and Associates, PLLC Attorneys for Assignee of Mortgage/Mortgagee Edinburgh Executive Office Center, 8525 Edinbrook Crossing North Suite #210 Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 Phone: 952-232-0052
Our File No. 24MN00267-1 A-4834907 02/19/2025, 02/26/2025, 03/05/2025, 03/12/2025, 03/19/2025, 03/26/2025 Published six times in the White Bear Press on February 19, 26, March 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025.
US STORAGE CENTERS
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE
Please take notice US Storage Centers – White Bear located at 1828 Buerkle Road White Bear, MN 55110 intends to hold an auction of storage units in default of payment. The sale will occur as an online auction via www. storagetreasures.com on 3/19/2025 at 10:00AM. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents are household goods, furnishings and garage essentials. Jesse Barton (2 units);Wanda Thomson; Kelli Burfeind; Dawn Mae Duffney; David Ault; Kelly Brunner; Irving Gabriel Figueroa Sierra; Lashawn Beverly; Yasmine Hunter; Stacy Nielsen; Chris Johnson; Kat Hollingsworth. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 26 and March 5, 2025.
CITY OF WILLERNIE WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE CHAPTER NO. I 004 CANNABINOID PRODUCTS AN ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
SUMMARY PUBLICATION. The following summary is approved by the City Council and shall be published in lieu of publishing the entire ordinance: On January 15, 2025, the City Council of the City of Willernie adopted amendments to Willernie Code Chapter 1004.005, Basis for denial of a license, and repealing and renumbering Willernie Code Chapter 1004.016 Interim Moratorium Ordinance.
The City seeks to modify its existing Chapter I 004 to add a basis for denial of a cannabinoid business license and to remove the expired moratoriums on hemp businesses and the issuance of business licenses.
Copies of the amendments as adopted are on file with the City Clerk for inspection and general distribution during regular office hours or by standard or electronic mail.
Approved 2.19.25
BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Signed: Vickie Keating, City Clerk
Published one time in the White Bear Press on February 26, 2025.
CITY OF GEM LAKE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE GEM LAKE PLANNING COMMISSION
February 20, 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: That the Planning Commission of Gem Lake, Ramsey County, Minnesota shall consider an application request from Matt Greer, on behalf of Gem Lake Hills Golf Course, for an amendment to amend the Conditional Use Permit for their property located at 4039 Scheuneman Road. The proposed amendment is for replacement of a hitting cage with a miniature golf course. There will be a public hearing on March 11, 2025, during the Planning Commission Meeting. The Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at 4200 Otter Lake Rd, Gem Lake. A copy of the application and staff report will be available from the City Clerk approximately one week prior to the hearing.
Melissa Lawrence, City Clerk
Published one time in the White Bear Press on February 26, 2025. CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
NOTICE OF HEARING ON IMPROVEMENTS FOR 2025 PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT ON: DIVISION AVENUE / TWELFTH STREET CITY PROJECT NO.: 25-13
To Whom It May Concern: Notice is hereby given that the White Bear Lake City Council will meet in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 4701 Highway 61, beginning at 7:00 p.m. on March 11, 2025, to consider the making of improvements described below pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Sections 429.011 to 429.111. The improvements include mill and overlay, street reconstruction with curb and gutter, sanitary sewer, storm sewer and sidewalk enhancements. The estimated cost of the improvement is $1,382,400. The area proposed to be assessed for such improvements is the abutting property benefiting from the improvements in the following project area: City Project No. 25-13 • Division Avenue (from Fifth Street to northern City Limits) • Twelfth Street (from Division Avenue and Long Avenue)
A reasonable estimate of the impact on the assessment will be available at the hearing.
The Mahtomedi Boys Basketball team recently hosted Youth Night, where player trading cards were distributed to fans before the game and signed by Varsity and JV players following the win over North St. Paul. The trading cards were donated by Carlson Print Group, who also provided cupcakes at the event. Pictured in the middle is a Noah Carlson trading card.
DR.
4100
4100
DR. JOY JOHNSON 651-653-3802
4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE
Above: A mixed media creation titled “Green Lantern Cowboy Larry” by Mark Christy.
At right: “Outta Here,” a sculpture by Beth Thompson, made using earthenware, acrylic, wood and steel pipe, appears to leap off the gallery wall.
Above: A three dimensional collage titled “Deviation #8 With Triceratops Cheeseburger” by Nathan Stromberg is among hundreds
AROUND TOWN
• Your local source for custom cabinets, furniture, live edge slabs, domestic and exotic hardwood lumber, and custom millwork.
• We build, supply and install all of our cabinets and countertops.
• Cambria dealer and installation associate. Visit our showroom for professional project support and to get help with planning, material selection, or visualizing what’s possible.
WHITE BEAR LAKE — The water conservation district made it official: Appropriation of surface water from White Bear Lake is prohibited. The board of directors approved an amended ordinance recently regulating appropriation in the wake of lake level litigation.
Amended ordinance No. 6 states that no person may pump or otherwise mechanically appropriate water from the lake at any time. There is an exception, however. The ordinance does not apply to emergency pumping by a municipal fire department for fire-fighting purposes. Violating the ordinance is a misdemeanor.
The previous ordinance historically allowed people to take water out of the lake when the level was above 923.5 feet. Lake level last month, by the way, was reported at 922.44 feet.
No one spoke regarding the change at the district’s January public hearing on the issue.
Debra Neutkens
ADULT & SENIOR CLASSES AT THE WB SENIOR CENTER REGISTRATION REQUIRED - 651-653-3121
55+ Driver Safety / $35: Mar 17, 5-9pm @ Sr Center | Feb 18, 9am1pm, Online | Apr 8, 12-4pm @ Sr Center
Chair Yoga: Mon, Mar 3-Apr 21, 10-10:45am, $34, Sr Center Spectacular Dinner: Mar 5, 6-9pm, $40 +class fee, Mariner MS Intro to Journaling: Mar 7, 4-6pm, $40, Online
Q&A with a MN Will & Trust Planning Attorney: Mar 10, 6:308pm, $30, Sr Center
Vinyasa Yoga: Tue, Mar 11 - Apr 15, 5:30-6:30pm, $72, Sr Center, Understanding Disenfranchised Grief: Mar 13, 10-11:30am, $5, Sr Center
History with Kathy Simmer: Beside the Golden Door: History of US Immigration: Mar 13, 10-11:30am, $18, Sr Center Discover the Essentials of Hip & Knee Health: Mar 19, 1011:30am, $5, Sr Center
TGI Foods! Lunch @ the Sr Center: Donatelli Lasagna: Mar 7, $6, Sr Center
30-minute appointment (NEW 2025 Price $55).
Hot or Frozen meals delivered Monday-Friday. If you are interested, know of someone who may need meals, or have questions, please call 651-653-3123.
LYNGBLOMSTEN COMMUNITY SERVICES
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2025 enrichment program provides brain-stimulating activities for adults living with memory loss and 4 hours of respite for their caregivers. Participants can attend up to 3 days a week at Lyngblomsten in Lino Lakes (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and/ or Thursdays). To learn more, contact Lisa at (651) 632-5320 or
caregiving@lyngblomsten.org.
Light Up Someone’s Day! Volunteer for The Gathering! Lyngblomsten is looking for volunteers to help adults living with memory loss enjoy stimulating activities and have meaningful interactions. We have two upcoming volunteer training sessions: Wednesday, March 26, or Wednesday, April 23, from 9:30-11 AM. Training provides everything you need to know to become a valuable team member. Contact Melanie at (651) 632-5499 or mjagolino@lyngblomsten.org to sign up!
Caregiver Education: Resilience and Stress-Reduction Techniques: Mindfulness, Yoga, and Qigong. Join us on Tuesday, April 8, from 4:30-6 PM for a virtual workshop that will help participants better identify and understand stress that can accompany caring for someone living with memory and thinking changes. Participants will learn about and sample various resilience-building practices, including mindfulness, yoga, and Qigong. No experience needed! Register by Friday, April 4, at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org.
A Matter of Balance helps older adults manage falls and increase activity levels. Two trained coaches guide participants through learning and activities that emphasize strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels. Participants show improved balance, flexibility, and strength. Mondays and Wednesdays, April 7–April 30, 1–3 PM at Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes. Online registration https:// yourjuniper.org/Classes/Register/4712 or contact us at (651) 632-5330 or communityservices@lyngblomsten.org.
MAHTOMEDI COMMUNITY EDUCATION ADULT ACTIVITIES AT THE MAHTOMEDI DISTRICT EDUCATION CENTER (DEC) 1520 MAHTOMEDI AVE.
ALL ACTIVITIES ARE HELD AT THE DEC UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.
MONDAYS: Stitchers - FREE 1-3 PM, 2nd/4th Monday of Month Bingo - FREE. Monday Mar. 31 and April 28, 1-3 PM
TUESDAYS: Cribbage - FREE 1-3 PM
WEDNESDAYS: Bridge - FREE 1-3 PM
THURSDAYS: 500 Cards - FREE 12:30-3 PM
FRIDAYS: Games - FREE 12:30-3 PM; Bridge - FREE 1-3 PM; Book Club - FREE 2nd Friday, 10-11:30 AM
The following requires registration: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com or call 651407-2024
Women Who Walk - FREE. Thursdays, March 6, 20, and 27, 9 AM
Everything You Want to Know About Medicare - $5. Wednesday, Mar. 5, 10-11:30 AM
We help you get back to living. Every step of the way.
Community Lunch - $12. Wednesday, Mar. 5, 12-1 PM 55+ 4-Hour Defensive Driving Class - $35. Wednesday, March 12, 9 AM-1 PM
Write Your Own Will - $60. Tuesday, March 18, 6-8:30 PM Barre Basics - $119. Wednesdays, March 19-May 14, 6:15-7 PM Easy Partner Dancing - $67 per person. Thursdays, March 20-April 17, 6:30-8 PM (Matoska International School)
Zumba Gold - $85. Fridays, March 21-May 16, 9-9:45 AM Will Your Taxes Affect Your Retirement? - FREE. Tuesday, March 25, 12-1 PM Virtual
Dr. Mark Seeley: Basic Meteorology - $25. Wednesday, March 26th, 6:30-7:30 PM
Therapy services at Cerenity White Bear Lake help you return to what you do best. Our combination of highly trained compassionate staff and the most innovative care in the area make our community your best choice for professional therapy services.
• Aquatic Therapy
History with Kathy Simmer: Bill and Hill: The Clintons - $18. Monday, April 7 or Tuesday, April 8, 10 AM-12 PM
• Occupational Therapy
Strength and Balance - $139. Tuesdays and Thursdays April 7-May 22, 1:15-2 PM
• Physical Therapy
• Speech Pathology
1. Remnants of a fight heist fishing house remain on bald eagle. The shack burned down a few weeks ago and residents are wondering who’s going to clean it. Speculation is a propane or wood burning stove may have contributed to the total loss.
— Kirsten Fleming , contributed.
1. White Bear Lake American Legion 168 is now serving food. The Smug Pug Kitchen, owned by Alicia Howie and Kevin Klimek, operates a food truck and catering business, and now serve food inside the Legion Thursday through Saturday. Also pictured is Chef Onyx. — Carter Johnson , contributed.
BACCHUS FAMILY: Advocating dangers of marijuana, THC to prevent tragedy
and want to surround myself with healthy and happy people. This has been too much for me and for you guys. I’ve been running from my past mistakes and I think it’s time I own up and start living a good life. Love you.”
Just 43 minutes later came the last text their son would ever send: “I love you and am sorry for everything. I love dad and I wish the same to him. I wish I would have been a better person.”
Then came silence. Forty-eight hours later, after requesting a wellness check, a call from the Denver County Coroner’s Office confirmed the worst: “Mr. and Mrs. Bacchus, I’m sorry to tell you that your son is deceased. It appears he died by suicide.”
“Our world was changed,” said Heather. “It turned upside down. His sisters’ hearts were broken, our hearts were broken, and you immediately start asking, ‘Why? Why did this happen?’ We knew Randy struggled, and we knew he had an addiction, but what we didn’t know was what happened to his brain.”
A May 2023 study from the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that up to 30% of schizophrenia in males aged 21 to 30 is preventable by avoiding a cannabis use disorder. “This is a study that tells me my son would likely still be here, having not had a problem with this,” said Heather.
A June 2021 study from the same organization found that out of 280,000 young adults ages 18 to 35, cannabis use was associated with a risk of thoughts of suicide, suicide pain and suicide attempts; attempts that, unbeknownst to Heather and Randy, were increasingly becoming prevalent in their son in the time leading up to his death.
“His autopsy said low levels of THC,” said Randy. “When we first saw that, we were kind of really
Facts on marijuana:
• Heavy marijuana exposure that starts in adolescence can result in an 8-point drop in IQ.
• From 2017 to 2020, Colorado’s usage of marijuana by ages 15 and younger increased by 15%.
• The chances of developing an addiction to any substance are six times higher for teens who begin using before 15 years old than those who delay use until 21 years and older.
Sources: Child Mind Institute, Smart Approach To Marijuana, National Institute of Health.
confused and befuddled. We didn’t know if he had low levels of THC, that means that he wasn’t using weed when he died. But the truth was, because of the cannabis-induced psychosis, it changed his brain. And even though he was using less of it, it already had structurally changed the way that he was thinking and his mental health.”
“I love you and am sorry for everything. I love dad and I wish the same to him. I wish I would have been a better person.”
Randy Bacchus III’s final text to his mother
In the wake of their son’s death, the Bacchus’ created Be Extraordinary, Be You!, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to “inform and educate parents, youth, and young adults on the harmful and damaging effects of Marijuana (THC) and on the developing brain.”
“Our encouragement to youth is to be extraordinary
and be yourself,” said Heather. “You all have different gifts, talents and abilities. And if you’re feeling uncomfortable, go to someone like a therapist, go to a counselor. You’ve got people in your school that care about you and want you to succeed in life. Drugs will only damage your brain and complicate your life. There are other options.”
“The key here is, you might not like the choices, but remember, you always do have a choice,” Randy added. To learn more about Be Extraordinary, Be You!, please visit its website at www.beextraordinarybeyou. org. More information on substance abuse and addiction can be found at the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s website at www.nida.nih.gov.
Caidryn Yang is a 5th grade student at Willow Lane Elementary and is a natural leader. Caidryn demonstrates empathy, cooperation and self-control in everything he does. He also serves on leadership teams where he mentors younger students and finds ways to make his community a better place.
White Bear Lake Area
Directory
Caidryn Yang
ERIK SUCHY PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Ever since their son Randy Bacchus III, took his life, his parents, Randy and Heather, have continued to speak about the dangers of marijuana and THC use.
City of Mahtomedi NOW HIRING 4 Full-time, Seasona l Maintenance Work ers
Positions run for 67 days. Duties include: Assisting Public Work s Dept w/ street water, sewer, and park maintenan ce Must have High School di ploma/GED, ab ility to lift/move up to 100 lbs., be at least 18 yrs old w/ va lid dr iver's license $18-$20/hr Applications at City Hall,
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‘Honest Work for Honest Pay’
Hi, I’m Bruce Baynard and I am the owner of Bruce’s Appliance Repair. I have decades of experience with major appliance repair. I can confidently say no one knows the Frigidaire/Electrolux and Maytag/Whirlpool lines better than I do. My motto is ‘Honest Work For Honest Pay’, which means you can rest assured that you will be
the most cost effective repair possible. I’m not a ‘’parts swapper” and won’t replace parts unless they are needed. And best of all ... jokes and laughs are still free :) (651) 270-7360 Brucesappliancerepair.com Serving counties: Anoka, Ramsey, Hennepin, Washington, Chisago, Dakota & Wisconsin See my ad under Appliance Repair
S E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y
andArts Culture
EMERGING ARTIST: DALILA ZUNIGA
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
If 2D art includes painting on a canvas, and 3D art includes crafting pottery, then 17-yearold White Bear Lake student Dalila Zuniga thrives in 2.5D art. Her painting, “Troubled Heart,” is making waves—literally—for its use of texture that pops beyond the canvas. Similarly, her ceramic teapots stand out for their surprising shapes. To achieve her innovative compositions, Zuniga navigates the artistic process completely by emotion.
For instance, Zuniga is drawn to acrylic paints because they can be shiny. She uses that shininess, however, in unconventional ways—to add pearlescent white to her wave tips or moisture to a crying eye. The results are
striking, yet they carry an undertone of unease.
“Art is very troubling for me,” Zuniga revealed. “I love it. It’s one of my favorite things to do, but when I’m in the moment and making that art? it’s really hard.” Zuniga explained that self-criticism is what whips her inner calm into the stormy sea she painted. “I don’t quiet the [inner] comments, I just continue to work until I get to a point where they just fade away.” Conversely, Zuniga is quite practical when receiving external comments. “I sometimes listen … ‘She doesn’t look like she’s facing the right way,’ or something else. Usually, I go off how I feel because, really, what I’m supposed to be trying to put on the page is how I feel about it.”
Only recently has Zuniga learned to let her inner comments speak without letting them take over entirely. “In the beginning, I would be like, ‘I don’t like it. I’ll scrap, start over,’” Zuniga stated. Now, she’s learning to be more open to changes and plans not going right.
Zuniga is implementing this advice for her future as well. Though she doesn’t quite know what shape her
artistic career will take, she knows it will be a part of her life. “I hope to still do art in the future,” Zuniga stated. “I know I will.”
DIRECTOR JESS YATES CRACKS OPEN “THE BOOK CLUB PLAY” FOR LAKESHORE PLAYERS
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
A“Mockumentary”—a dramatically staged, fake documentary—is a style that has produced some of the greatest sitcoms of this century. “The Office,” “Parks and Recreation” and “Abbott Elementary” all mine the “reality” of mundane jobs for laughs while examining average joes who desperately want to be liked. “The Book Club Play,” premiering at Lakeshore Players on March 14, does the same to well-read wine moms.
“It’s very funny; it’s very real,” stated director Jess Yates. “You have those moments of rooting for someone as well as moments where we all have to face the discomfort that comes from being human beings. I think that creates a play that’s really complex in a really fun way…”
TOf course, the meta-challenge of mockumentaries is that characters are “real people” speaking to a fake film crew, all of which is staged for an audience. To achieve a sense of realism in a play about reality TV, then, Yates gave extra opportunity for her actors to explore their curiosity. “I lean a lot on my actors’ instincts,” she informed. “So every sip of water, every time someone stands, I want it to be motivated not by, ‘We need we need to make a good picture here,’ but ‘What is this character feeling in this moment?’”
Yates believes that such a process allows actors to feel like collaborating artists rather than puppets. “The conversations [actors] are able to have and the parts you’re able to create are so much more fulfilling,” she explained. In turn, a director’s responsibility is no longer planning every single movement,
but rather being an actor’s outside eye and first audience member.
One thing Yates did require from her cast, though, was a sense of play. “A go-getter, let’s-figure-this-out-together attitude—those were the people who I was drawn to for this show and who make up this cast,” Yates described. As a result, Yates believes the audience is in for a good time. “It’s hard to say if we laughed more during the actual rehearsal time or during our breaks.”
Like a great novel or TV show, Yates hopes audience members tell all their friends about “The Book Club Play.” She stated, “I think we’ve done our job as an artistic team if you can’t stop talking about the play on the car ride home.”
Lakeshore Players’ production of “The Book Club Play” runs from March 14-23. For tickets and more information, visit www.lakeshoreplayers.org.
PRESERVING WHAT WAS LOST
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
he Carnegie Library, the St. Paul Automobile Club, the Bald Eagle train depot—the White Bear Lake area has lost many a building over the last 150 years. White Bear Lake Area Historical Society Executive Director Sara Hanson will be exploring these extinct buildings in a library program on March 24.
“One of our [WBLA Historical Society’s] purposes is to advocate for historic preservation,” Hanson stated. “I’m a preservationist, but I’m also a realist. Just because something’s old doesn’t mean it has to be saved.”
Hanson’s program instead covers the reasons a building was lost, whether through natural disasters, blight, or town-planning initiatives. “In the ‘50s and ‘60s, urban renewal was the name of the game,” Hanson compared. “They were ripping down everything down that wasn’t considered useful or whatnot. In more recent decades, the push has been for preservation, rehabilitation, and reuse.”
Buildings, however, decay as they age, and part of Hanson’s job is to help determine the best course of action. The Fillebrown House, for instance, is a precious example of East-Coast cottage architecture found in very few spots in the Midwest. Ten years ago, however, the floors began sinking. “The architects we worked with came up with a plan to just put stud walls in the basement,” she explained. “It gave us what we needed with more modern technology, but still retained the way the house was.”
Another example is the Fourth Street Armory’s crumbling
castellated parapets. How can the historical society save that aspect of the building when it’s falling apart and causing safety issues? “ [Architects] are coming in and will be dismantling those parapets … cleaning all of the brick, repairing where they need, taking brick from other less obvious parts of the build so that it matches, and rebuilding them,” Hanson informed. Such challenges are part of the reason Hanson is presenting this program. “I want to make sure that, as a community, we don’t sight of what has been there in the past and how it has shifted and changed to where we are now… all I ask is for thoughtful consideration.”
The White Bear Lake Library will present “Lost White Bear” at 2150 Second St., White Bear Lake at 6 p.m. Monday March 24.
Congratulations to past and Emerging Artists on Hennepin Trust Spotlight Awards!
• Yahaira Nok-Chiclana — Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role • Lucas Maahs — Honorable Mention in a Feature Role
We wish you success in all future endeavors!
MARCH EVENTS
Explore upcoming Avenue of the Arts events with CPA, LPT and WBCA
INTRO TO WATERCOLOR & INK
Location: White Bear Center for the Arts
Date: Tuesday, Mar 11, 4:00-6:00 PM
Details: Learn watercolor techniques step-by-step as you paint greenery, florals, and simple abstracts. Register at WhiteBearArts.org.
REDUCTION RELIEF PRINTING
Location: White Bear Center for the Arts
Date: Saturday, Mar 22, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM
Details: Create a reduction relief print from start to finish, learning carving techniques, color theory, and how to think in layers. Register at WhiteBearArts.org.
STILL LIFE PAINTING IN OILS
Location: White Bear Center for the Arts
Dates: 3 Thursdays, Mar 6-20, 1:00-3:30 PM
Details: Start with a drawing and value structure, and learn color temperature and light, highlights, accents, and controlled brushwork. Register at WhiteBearArts.org.
Emerging Artist Delila Zuniga paints on canvas, adding texture with layers upon layers of acrylic paint and polish.
White Bear Lake’s original Carnegie Library circa 1935. The building is one of the many “Lost White Bear” pieces Sara Hanson will cover in her March 24 presentation.
Senior trio leads strong finish for Bear gymnasts
BY BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The White Bear Lake gymnasts finished their season on high notes the past two weekends.
The Bears placed second in Section 4AA with their season best score. Senior captains Amelia Ahrens, Addy Mueller, and Josie Mljejnek advanced to state, where they posted good scores and avoided mistakes.
Mueller earned a spot on the medal podium, placing eighth in uneven bars with a 9.125 score. The top eight among 40 entrants get medals. Mueller also placed 11th on vault with 9.425.
Ahrens, who qualified in all-around and two events, placed 14th of 24 allaround with 35.925 and 15th on floor exercise with 9.2125. She scored 8.625 on bars, 9.05 on beam and 9.25 on vault. Mlejnek, who qualified on balance beam, placed 20th with 8.975.
Coach Kelly Rivers said sectionals was an “awesome day” highlighted by all five girls sticking their team routines (no falls). “It was electric,” she said. The three state qualifiers all stuck their routines again Saturday.
Ahrens was third all-around at the
section with a season high 36.475, third on beam (9.425), fourth on floor (9.025) and tied for fourth on bars (8.875).
“Amelia has a beautiful yet difficult beam routine,” Rivers said, including a
3 Zephyrs mat champs at section, on to state tournament
BY BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Mahtomedi will have three wrestlers in the state tournament after Evan McGuire, Aidan Boex and Aidan Carlson captured Section 4AA championships at Cretin-Derham Hall. McGuire, a senior, unbeaten at 47-0 and top-ranked at 215, reached the finals with pins in 33 and 34 seconds, and pinned his finals opponent, Connor Frederixon of Chisago Lakes in 1:02. He was a state runner-up last year. Carlson, a junior, was 121-pound champ, beating Simley’s Damir Sofronov 15-1 in the finals after advancing with a pin and 20-3 win. He’s 38-7.
Boex, a freshman at 172, beat Isaac Henry of Cretin-Derham Hall 10-3 in the finals after advancing with pins in 57
WRESTLING
White Bear Lake had one state qualifier, Noah Ludwig, at Section 4AAA. Ludwig (25-10), a senior, placed second of five entrants at 139 pounds. He had a bye, edged Mounds View’s Jack Hatton 4-3, and was pinned in the finals by Stillwater’s Grayson Eggum. Placing third were Galvin Nathanson at 145 with 16-7 and 15-2 decisions while getting pinned twice; Indiana Kane at 114, winning two of three; Porter Cleary at 172, with wins by 22-5, 19-4 and 17-8 while losing twice; and Charlie Woodcock 189, going 2-2. Cleary and Woodcock each lost a true-second. Christian Carlson, senior with the team’s best record (27-9), placed fourth at 133 pounds, going 2-2 with a pin and 13-12 decision.
GIRLS BASKETBALL
White Bear Lake closed the Suburban East season on a high note, fending off Stillwater 51-49. The Bears, who had lost to Stillwater earlier 53-38, finished 12-6 in the Suburban East, tying Cretin-Derham Hall for third behind East Ridge (16-1) and Stillwater
seconds and 1:58. He’s 31-12.
“It was a great section tournament for us,” coach Matt Oswald said. "The wrestlers accepted the challenge of the competitive environment and we wrestled as well as we have all season.”
The lineup had just one senior (McGuire) and just five with previous section experience, but eight wrestlers placed in the top six including the champions.
Owen Eigum placed fourth at 145, Samuel White fourth at 160, Mac Schultz fifth at 133, Dawson Dubac fifth at 285, and Grayson Saterback sixth at 107.
The posed for a group photo that included Elizabeth Carlson, who placed third in the girls sectional.
The state individual tournament will be held Friday and Saturday at Xcel Energy Center.
(14-4). The Bears (17-9) are seeded third in the section and will host Tartan on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Against Stillwater, Addison Post had 12 points, Abby O’Brien 11, Chloe Theissen nine and Elise Dieterle eight. The Bears made eight 3-pointers. The Bears lost at Cretin-Derham Hall 74-71. Dieterle had 25 points, Post 20 and Thiessen 13.
BOYS BASKETBALL
White Bear Lake is 12-11 after losing two conference games last week to No. 1 ranked Cretin-Derham Hall (22-1) 75-57 and Stillwater (15-9) by 57-50.
BOYS HOCKEY
White Bear Lake beat Woodbury 4-0 in the Section 4AA opener on goals by Blake Eckerle (two), Rian Marquardt and Zac Baay (empty net) and Leo Gabriel’s 23 saves. The No. 3 seed Bears (15-7-3) face No. 2 Stillwater (20-6) in the semifinals Wednesday at 8 p.m. at Aldrich Arena, after top seed HillMurray duels Roseville at 5 p.m. The finals are Friday at 7 p.m.
Bruce Strand
back handspring roundoff series and a standing back tuck. Ahrens was taught a floor routine by assistant coach Laney Gunderson, a 2022 graduate who made four state trips. “She has such elegant
leaps, just like Laney did.” Mueller qualified on vault (9.175), bars (8.85), and beam (9.175). Her difficult bars routine, said Rivers, includes “a giant swing into her bail and a double back dismount.” She upgraded her vault this year to the more difficult pike tsukahara. Mlejnek qualified on beam (8.95), with “a calm confidence” executing a back handspring, a series of switch/leaps, and a tuck 3/4 to a standing full twist dismount on the side.
It was Mueller’s second state trip and the first for Ahrens and Mlejnek.
Freshman Grace Mueller had season highs on bars (8.55), beam (8.725) and all around (34.9) and a 9.325 vault. Also providing spark were sophomore Taylynne McMahon, leading off beam with an 8.7, and freshman Harlie Peloquin, leading off bars with 8.275.
Rivers, who is retiring from coaching, was named section coach of the year. “It has been one of my greatest blessings to coach this program for the last 10 years,” she reflected. “I have had the most wonderful gymnasts and parents during my time. Each year brought such wonderful memories and strong relationships that I will cherish.”
Demanou is Bears’ first girls wrestling state qualifier
Jinet Demanou became the first White Bear Lake female wrestler to qualify for the state tournament when she placed second at 170 pounds in the Section 3/4 tournament in Redwood Falls.
Demanou (25-2), a junior, reached the semifinals, lost that one, then won a third-place match and a true-second match to earn a berth in Saturday’s state meet at Xcel Center.
Izzy Kane, sophomore, placed eighth in her division, and captain Calli Lactorin, a junior, placed 12th. Seven girls competed for the Bears. The girls
coach is Jon Shellenberger. Demanou is a second-year wrestler with “uncapped potential,” said Jeffrey Isaac, Bears head coach. Her first year, she mainly used her strength, power and speed while learning techniques. This year, she expanded her skills and her “wrestling IQ.”
Isaac said this was “a flagship year” for the girls program with the veterans sparking some interest among other girls to try this grueling sport.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Mark Graff
Mahtomedi Basketball February 26, 2025
Mark Graff, Mahtomedi junior guard, recently sparked two wins with 32-point games. He is averaging 19.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 2.4 steals, making 58 three-pointers and shooting 79.5% at the line. “Mark does everything well,” coach Keith Newman said. “He has a great feel for the game. He is an elite level shooter. His ball handling is solid, and his understanding of all of our offensive sets is outstanding.”
BRUCE STRAND | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
White Bear Lake state qualifiers Josie Mlejnek, Addy Mueller and Amelia Ahrens smiled during introductions.
Bruce Strand
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Jinet Demanou with her White Bear Lake teammates after the state qualifier in Redwood Falls. From left are Jamie Herring, Amber Pax, Tessalyn Moen, Demanou, Hayley Sexlix, Calli Lacktorin and Izzy Kane.
Mary Catherine (Mary Kay) Kline
(nee Carroll) 89, passed away peacefully at home on Sat, Feb 15th, 2025 surrounded by family and friends.
Mary Kay was born May 3rd, 1935 in St. Paul, Minn. She was preceded in death by her parents John and Helen (Path) Carroll; her husband Robert (Bob); her beloved son John, and her grandson Dusty. Survived by siblings Terry Carroll, Helen Massey, and Maureen Winstead. Devoted mother to Michael (Kelly Larson), Patricia (Mike Shivers), Brian (Shari Ellert), John, Joanne (Nick Gudka), Steven (Jeanine Gadbois), Julie (Richard Chadwick), and David (Julie Ericson) and doting grandmother to 17 grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held at St Jude of the Lake Catholic Church in Mahtomedi, MN on Fri, June 20, 2025. Visitation starts at 10:00am, Mass at 11:00am followed by a luncheon, and burial at 1:30pm at Lakeview Cemetery.
Ruby Ruth Nelson
Age 97, of Mahtomedi, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025. She was born September 3, 1927, in Malmo Township in Northern Minnesota to Charles and Ruth Ott. More information at: https://www.facebook. com/MPCCAMA
A memorial service will be held on March 29th, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Majestic Pines Community Church (930 Mahtomedi Ave, Mahtomedi, MN 55115)
Shirley Ann Phillippi
91, of White Bear Lake. Services were held Monday, February 24th at 11 AM, with visitation one hour prior to the service at ST. STEPHEN LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1965 East County Rd E, White Bear Lake, MN. Interment Lakeview Cemetery, Mahtomedi, MN. Arrangements with Honsafamilyfuneral.com, 651-429-6172.
Linda Ruth Albert
Born July 1, 1938, passed away at home on February 9, 2025. Private service only.
Nancy Ann Swanson (nee Pitzel)
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Nancy Ann Swanson (nee Pitzel), age 59. She took her last breath with her family at her side on February 13th, 2025, at St. John’s Hospital. Nancy was born on May 2, 1965, in St. Paul, Minnesota. She grew up in and called White Bear Lake her home. She loved sports, the outdoors and the Minnesota Vikings. Nancy made friends wherever she went and was the first to say hello when you saw her. She worked hard at everything she did, loved to laugh and always showed up. Nancy loved to cook, play golf in the summer and snowmobile in the winter. Nancy also loved to travel, and her favorite places were in the mountains, especially in Colorado. For the past 10 years, she and her husband, Wayne, have owned and operated the Lumberjack Saloon and Eatery in Webb Lake, Wisconsin.
Nancy is preceded in death by her grandparents, an uncle, Michael Pitzel; a cousin, James Moris; brotherin-law, Rick Lucke; her best friend, Lynn McComber, and her beloved dogs Bentley and Clapton.
She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne; children, Emerson and Morgan Veiman; their father, Christopher Veiman; her step children, Jordan(Marion) and Riley(Dennis) Swanson; mother, Judy Moris; father, Jack Pitzel and his wife Connie; siblings, Julie(Dave) Dixon, Christine(David) Hobrough, Amy(Jeff) Mample, Beth(Jon) Commers; her schnauzer, Mauer; and many nieces, nephews, beloved family, and friends. Nancy loved and was loved by her family and will never be forgotten. She is deeply missed and will be in our hearts forever.
A service celebrating Nancy’s life will be held at the Bradshaw Funeral Home at 2800 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater, 55082 on Tuesday, March 4th at 6p.m. with a visitation beginning at 4p.m. Please come as you are, the family will be dressed casually. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Webb Lake Fire & Rescue, 31000 Namekagon Road, Webb Lake, WI 54830.
