White Bear Press by Press Publications

Emmaus Church hopes to expand footprint

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

WHITE BEAR LAKE — A neighborhood church is at the point where it would like to expand but is running into some constraints of the property it sits on.

Emmaus Church is located on a 0.38-acre site on the northwest corner of Stewart Avenue and Third Street. The applicant’s concept plan proposes a

3,300-square-foot addition to the church that would provide space for around 80 new parishioners (300 total in the sanctuary), a new kitchen and study space, and renovations to the existing building. The church is proposed to be used for classrooms and meeting space. The addition is proposed to be constructed where the parking lot now sits, which would eliminate all on-site parking.

“A concept plan review is a discussion and feedback item,” explained Community Development Director Jason Lindahl. “It is designed for the applicant to have the opportunity to go directly to a neighborhood, Planning Commission and City Council to get general feedback on their proposal.”

Lindahl said “the only path

Johnnie Schmidt uses a specialized saw to keep an opening in White Bear Lake free of ice for his cold water therapy plunges.

Cool Down, Power Up: Practicing cold water therapy

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

What comes to mind when you think of improving yourself mentally and physically? Exercising? Reading a good book? For Chisago City resident Johnnie Schmidt, his method involves something more based in the water—and several degrees colder. “It’s about selfempowerment,” says Schmidt. “It’s about awe and being out there every day. Usually, I’m out there for two to two-and-a-half hours sometimes.”

That method is called cold water therapy, also called cryotherapy, which involves using cold water to treat health conditions or stimulate health benefits. For Schmidt, it is a practice that includes these and some mental benefits. “It’s about separating my mental craziness from my body,” Schmidt adds. Schmidt, who is originally from Litchfield, said his love of cold therapy was an interest he admits

Council considers changes to parking near high school

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Residents who live near White Bear Lake Area High School (WBLAHS) should expect to receive a letter soon.

City staff is soliciting feedback on potential changes to parking restrictions and permit parking surrounding WBLAHS.

Public Works Director/ City Engineer Paul Kauppi explained that during the approval process for the North Campus expansion project in 2021 and an amendment in 2023 for additional seating in the stadium, city staff decided to wait until full campus occupancy in fall 2024 before considering further parking restrictions in the nearby neighborhood.

“Staff was able to actively review traffic and parking issues in the area for typical school days as well as evening and weekend events,” Kauppi said. “Engineering and police staff made routine rounds of the area and were present at events.”

The current restrictions “appear to be appropriate and effective,” Kauppi said, adding that the city might want to consider a change on 12th Street from Division Avenue to Long Avenue. That segment of roadway is proposed for reconstruction this summer and will be changed from a rural section to an urban section with curb and gutter, which confines the road’s travel and parking. Kauppi explained that the final design is in progress and a final recommendation will be made to the council with the approval of final plans and specifications.

Late-winter lake cleanup scheduled

The annual Late Winter Ice (or Park) Cleanup on White Bear Lake is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 8. Volunteers will be assigned to pick up trash on different parts of the lake ice on the first weekend after the end of ice fishing season. If the ice is not suitable for foot traffic by that date, the cleanup effort will shift to a lakeshore park. Garbage bags will be available prior to cleanup day.

Volunteers are asked to sign up in advance so cleanup sites can be pre-arranged. Email Jim Schuster, volunteer coordinator, at jschust64@ gmail.com or call 651-269-0976 for more information and to register. Watch for more information to come at www.wblcd.org. The White Bear Lake Conservation District sponsors the cleanup, which started as an Eagle Scout project in 2004.

FEBRUARY 19, 2025

THE GERRY SPIESS STORY

When: 6-7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24

Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St.

Details: Hear about the White Bear Lake resident’s journey to build a 10 foot sailboat dubbed the “Yankee Girl” and his solo adventures across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. No registration required. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

WHAT’S HAPPENING

TELLING OUR STORIES USING COLLAGE

When: 2-4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20

Where: White Bear Lake Community Health Club, 1430 Highway 96 E

Details: Create a collage using magazines, newsprint, art supplies and photos, led by poet and author Anne Picard. Registration required. Contact: https://form.jotform. com/250086002768152

VADNAIS HEIGHTS BLOOD DRIVE

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19

Where: Vadnais Heights Commons

Details: Registration required. Register online at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800 RED CROSS.

Contact: Katie Everett at 651-204-6000 or katie.everett@cityvadnaisheights.com

VETERAN SUICIDE AWARENESS WALK

When: 2:22 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22

Where: VFW Post 1782, 4496 Lake Ave. S.,

White Bear Lake

Details: Join members of the VFW and Auxiliary to walk from the VFW to Matoska Park and back, approximately 2.2 miles to honor the 22 veterans who die by suicide every day.

Contact: vfwpost1782.org/run22

THE WRITER'S ROOM: AN OPEN STUDIO FOR WRITERS

When: 1-4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Avenue

Details: Write in the company of fellow writers in an inspiring space, led by Amber Guetebier. For adults and teens 16+, all levels.

Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org

SWEETHEART DANCE

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21

Where: Mahtomedi Middle School Gym

Details: Adults and child partners ages 3-9 spend and evening dancing with a DJ, getting faces painted, getting a photo in the booth, reading, making crafts and having pizza. Registration information online.

Contact: communityed.mahtomedi.k12. mn.us

'THE SHAPE OF THINGS'

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21 and 28; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 and March 1; 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23 and March 2; 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27

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/centuryplayhouse

HUGO LIONS FISHING EVENT

When: 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22

Where: Veterans Campground, Big Marine Lake

Details: All ages ice fishing contest with prizes and raffles. Kids under 15 free. Proceeds benefit Veterans Campground. Sign up online.

Contact: goodneighbordays.com/icefishing

COMEDY NIGHT WITH MEGGIE FARIS

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22

Where: Hugo American Legion Post 620 Details: Comedy show featuring Meggie Faris, Jesse the Shrink and Steph Rossell. Tickets online. Dinner available at 6 p.m.

Contact: eventbrite.com/e/americanlegion-hugo-post-620-comedy-night-withmeggie-faris-tickets

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23

Where: 645 Warner Avenue, Mahtomedi Details: Hike on the Gateway Trail followed by chili dinner. Contact: stpaulhike.com

MIDWINTER COMMUNITY HYMN SING

When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23

Where: First Evangelical Free Church, 2696 Hazelwood St., Maplewood

Details: Join members from various local churches for a family-friendly event. Contact: 651-226-4289

BINGO

When: 1:30-3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center, room 121

Details: Afternoon of Bingo and prizes. No registration necessary. Contact: communityed.mahtomedi.k12. mn.us

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

‘MOANA: THE MUSICAL JR.’

When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28 and Saturday, March 1; 2 p.m. Sunday, March 2

Where: Central Middle School

Auditorium, 4855 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Live performance of the popular movie performed by students from Lincoln Elementary School. Tickets online or at the door.

Contact: bit.ly/WBLTheater or lincolnptaproductions@gmail.com

OPINION

For friendship’s sake, let’s ban cell phone bans

At the beginning of the school year I wrote an article on how different school districts in our coverage area would tackle cell phone use in class. Five months later, I find myself revisiting this topic for a different reason.

In discussing this, I want to momentarily speak on behalf of my past teenage self. In high school, I will admit that struggling to concentrate in class was not limited to autism alone. I was often guilty of pulling out my phone and sending a few random texts here and there when I should have been paying attention to whatever (x1 + x2)/ y2 meant (no, I don’t know if this equation is real or not).

However, if I can defend myself, my reasoning would be relatable amongst anyone my then-age. I wanted to maintain connections with whomever I was lucky to befriend. Connections that were both hard to make and rare to find. Keep this sentiment in mind; it will come into play later on.

I want to clarify that I do not condone texting during class for any reason. A classroom is a designated distraction-free learning-only zone. However, one approach I have seen in some schools to moderate this is to ban all cell phone use in school, whether it’s in class, passing time or lunch. This is a procedure that, in my opinion, should be overturned.

The justifications I have heard for these bans, one that goes into effect as soon as a student walks through the doors, apparently have more to do with class use versus passing time and/or lunch. According to teachers, students can use computers to research information and don’t necessarily need phones to do this. While valid from a classroom perspective, what is the reason for banning it during lunch and passing time?

Perhaps a concern is that a student will get so distracted from using it during passing time that they might miss class. But isn’t that why we have bells to indicate when passing time is over, let alone teachers standing outside classrooms to tell them this? This was the case when I was in both middle and high school. Even if students were on their phones, they still understood that this bell or teacher-led reminders told them they needed to get to class.

Another potential worry is that bonding via phone doesn’t offer the same personal connectivity as a face-to-face conversation. Once again, I’m sure there is plenty of truth to this. But let’s take a step back and re-consider this “issue” beyond its face value. The scenario is that two or more friends want to make plans to hang out outside of school. One could say that they can make plans in person. But what if their school schedules don’t match up, giving them little to no time to meet up? What if one friend doesn’t even go to the same school as the other? One of them is out of the country? The list can go on. Plus, isn’t it also a given that once they meet up in person, they will likely be communicating face-to-face.

Passing time and lunch are valuable times for students to text friends and maintain connections through their phones. If schools say it is crucial for students to make friends early on in life, why can’t texting during these periods be one of them?

Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at lowdownnews@presspubs.com or 651-407-1229.

Power-sharing protects will of voters

The Minnesota House of Representatives reconvened on Thursday, February 6, marking a historic moment in our state’s democratic process. Through unwavering dedication to constitutional principles, we achieved a power-sharing agreement that honors and protects the will of the voters both in Shakopee and statewide. With a tied House, we need bipartisan action to pass bills and move our state forward.

As we have said since right after the election, Democrats are ready to work with Republicans to govern effectively and make more progress for Minnesotans and our state’s future.

This agreement represents a decisive victory for democratic principles, ensuring that DFL Rep. Brad Tabke of Shakopee can fulfill his rightful term, and establishing crucial precedent that safeguards future election results from potential partisan interference. Our success stems from our unified stance in defending the fundamental right of voters to have their voices heard and respected – a principle that transcends party lines and defines the very essence of our republic.

• Limited to 350 words.

• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

This is the power-sharing agreement Democrats have been seeking since the beginning of session and one that Minnesotans support. I remain aware of the myriad challenges ahead. Should anyone – at the state or federal level – attempt to undermine our democratic norms, we will stand firm in defense. It’s our fundamental – and constitutional – obligation to you and our communities. My recent meetings with community leaders, advocates, and constituents have reinforced the importance of our shared priorities. From championing infrastructure investment through a bipartisan bonding bill to addressing crucial issues like victim-survivor services, the childcare crisis, and affordable housing, House Democrats are building a legislative agenda that serves all Minnesotans, not just the privileged few.

As we navigate these consequential times, we’re confronting unprecedented challenges to our democratic institutions with resolute determination. We’re advancing legislation that protects voting rights, ensures economic opportunity, and defends individual freedoms against extremist efforts to undermine them. Our work extends beyond partisan politics – it’s about preserving the democratic principles that make Minnesota a leader in good governance and

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS

at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.

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

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civil rights.

Moving forward, DFLers remain committed to passing a robust, equitable state budget that serves all Minnesotans, regardless of zip code or economic status. We’ll continue defending our legislative achievements while pushing forward with progressive policies that expand opportunity and protect individual rights. In the face of federal policies that often conflict with Minnesota values, I stand firm in my commitment to building a future where prosperity is shared, rights are protected, and democracy thrives.

This moment calls for continued vigilance and unity in defending our democratic institutions. Together, we’re proving that Minnesota’s tradition of responsive, responsible governance remains strong, even as we face unprecedented challenges to our democratic norms. It is a deep honor to represent our vibrant district at the Capitol and I remain committed to being your advocate and welcome your continued input as we tackle the challenges ahead. My door is always open to hear your ideas, concerns, and hopes for our community’s future. Together, we’re proving that when we unite around our shared values, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Minnesota for everyone.

Brion Curran is the Minnesota Representative for district 36B

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

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Suchy’s Scoop

Erik Suchy

Legislator Lingo Brion Curran

Dog beach location that solves issues

I believe that a dog beach location between the Spiess Landing dock and Manitou Island bridge would have been selected in the first place if consciously chosen by the city rather than by happenstance.

Gene Peterson White Bear Lake

Column inspired me

I’ve always enjoyed Managing Editor Shannon Granholm’s opinions and articles.

I was very sad to read about her dad and what he and her family went through in her latest column, “30 the new 50?” Her father died way too young. And now she’s dealing with prediabetes. I was encouraged and inspired by Shannon to pay more attention to my weight and what I eat. My blood sugar level is above normal, so I’m risking prediabetes myself. After reading several scary articles on how America’s diet is killing us, and the amount of sugar and artificial ingredients that is in highly processed food, I’ve cut out almost all processed foods and sugar where possible, including alcohol. My breakfast usually consists of fruit and a microwaved egg. Coffee with oat milk.

Congratulations on losing 30 pounds — that’s awesome and now my goal. Despite the abuse to my body over the years, I’m still relatively healthy, so I consider myself very fortunate. I don’t want my daughter going through what Shannon did, so thank you for sharing your story. Yes, I’m sure it was hard to write and share. But you touched a lot of people besides me. And hopefully inspired them, too. I think that’s the highest honor of any writer…

Lloyd Keller Circle Pines

Thank you for your vulnerability

I'm catching up on my reading and I wanted to tell you I did read Shannon Granholm’s whole column about her dad, “30 the new 50?”

I can't imagine how difficult it was growing up and having your father deteriorate before your eyes. It certainly

explains your concerns about your own health.

Congratulations on making positive changes in your habits and losing weight. It sounds like you are doing what you can to stay healthier. It was very brave of you to share your story. Thank you for your vulnerability.

Deb Courts Brown White Bear Lake

Police are not the bad guys

Our state Rep. Brion Curran says otherwise. Last week during a public safety meeting, our White Bear/Vadnais Heights Rep. Brion Curran stated the following: “If we’re talking about criminal consequences as a way of deterring crime, there’s an increase in fleeing police. People have increasingly fled police because they’re increasingly more afraid. Threats of more jail time isn’t going to work. I’d like to work in a space where we’re actually doing something about the real fear that people have of police officers."

It’s nice to see Rep. Curran finally decided to go back to work. Nevertheless, our police are not the problem nor the bad guys. Brion’s beliefs will do absolutely nothing regarding the growing violent crime in our cities.

Jan Jarvinen Vadnais Heights

Drop the issue

Dear City Council members: I’m writing as a concerned citizen, frustrated that the issue of the dog beach keeps resurfacing. This has been debated before, yet here we are again. I have three main concerns: cost, fairness, and power.

First, the cost. I recently attended a meeting where you discussed rising taxes and the need for responsible spending. I appreciated that conversation because my taxes are high, too. So why are taxpayer dollars being wasted revisiting this issue? It seems this is happening because one family—and their relatives next door—oppose the dog beach, and they happen to sit on our council. That is the primary source of complaints. A personal agenda is not a valid reason to continue using

public resources. It’s unfair and a waste of money. The community is tired of this being treated as a problem when it simply isn’t one.

Second, fairness. This issue is being raised at a time of year when dog beach supporters have a harder time organizing. We don’t have an established way to network because when we’re at the beach, we’re busy supervising our dogs, not exchanging phone numbers. If this meeting were held in warmer months, I have no doubt you’d see hundreds of people at the February 25 meeting in support of the dog beach. Instead, this discussion is happening in the dead of winter, when the lake is frozen, making it difficult for the community to mobilize. That feels strategic, and it is deeply unfair.

Lastly, power. Is our city run where one person with a loud voice can override the majority? I don’t believe that’s how most of you want this council or our city to operate, but right now, it comes across that way. That’s disappointing, and I hope you’ll do the right thing.

I sincerely hope you will listen to the voices of the many. The dog beach is a valued part of our community, and it deserves to stay. I agree with our mayor’s previous statement that this issue should not come up again.

Lonnie Weaver-Johnson White Bear Lake

Diversity made us strong

Most who join the military do so for love of country, not hate for others. This is why I joined the Army. I fought, bled and almost died in the Korean War and I am a decorated Purple Heart recipient. In my foxhole in the Korean War, my squad of seven soldiers consisted of Black, Filipino, South Korean and Caucasian. This diversity of brotherhood made us strong. After I was hit by a hand grenade, I was taken care of by female nurses in a Puerto Rican MASH Unit.

To erase the history and valor of gender and ethnic soldiers is just plain wrong and hateful and will weaken our

military. And this is the path of Pete Hegseth, current Secretary of Defense.

Dr. Don Sonsalla White Bear Lake

What about fraud?

It is always the guilty that scream the loudest about their rights being taken away. It is surprising how the Democrats and the mainstream media are more concerned that it is Elon Musk who is looking at how the government spends our tax dollars, than they are about all the fraud he has found.

It seems to be exactly the same problem here in Minnesota under Governor Walz. In Minnesota, we had the Feeding Our Future and the children’s day care fraud scandals, which went on for years while our elected and trusted government workers kept sending the money to organizations that never provided any proof they were legitimate. Now we have the autism centers that should be helping children, but unscrupulous people are scamming taxpayers.

The problem with government transfer payments for many legitimate programs is that our government budgeting process rewards departments only if they spend all their annual budget. These department’s goals are to keep growing the number of people they serve and to increase their budget. All government departments should be working to identify why people need their services and try to eliminate the problem and reduce the need for their services rather than growing the problem. Thank you to Elon Musk, who is volunteering his services while taking time away from his businesses to find waste and fraud in our bloated government. Let us pay more attention to the fraud and waste that he has identified, than to attacking patriots like Elon Musk and others who are honestly trying to protect us.

Craig Johnson Vadnais Heights

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 resident in the 900 block of County Road D on Jan. 11 reported receiving a suspected scam call.

• Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies on Jan. 11 took custody of a baggie suspected of containing narcotics that had been found in a store in the 3200 block of Highway 61.

• Deputies took a fraud report Jan. 12 from a resident in the 3700 block of Nature View Trail, who received a call from someone who claimed to be from the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office and demanded money. The case is under investigation.

• A resident in the 3300 block of Edgerton Street on Jan. 14 reported that someone had used her credit card to pay for more than $3,000 in Uber rides.

• A North Oaks woman, 62, was cited Jan. 16 for parking in a handicapped spot in the 900 block of County Road E without proper certification.

• A St. Paul man reported the license plate stolen off his vehicle Jan. 16 while it was parked in the 1100 block of County Road E.

• Domestic assault was reported Jan. 17 near the intersection of Highway 96 and Rice Street.

A St. Paul man on Jan. 17 reported packages were stolen off a front step in the 1000 block of County Road D.

• A man from Portage, Indiana, reported cartons

The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Feb. 5.

• Officers assisted the Maplewood Police Department Feb. 6 in checking the 1900 block of County Road D for a domestic assault suspect who fled. He was not found.

• Theft was reported in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road Feb. 6.

• Theft was reported in the area of Century Avenue and County Road E Feb. 7.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Feb.7.

• Officers assisted with a domestic incident in the 900 block of Wildwood Road Feb.7.

• A Rochester resident was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 3300 block of Willow Avenue Feb. 8.

• A man assaulted a customer at a business in the 4400 block of Highway 61 Feb. 8. He was cited for fifth-degree assault and

of cigarettes stolen from his vehicle Jan. 18 after it was broken into in the 1100 block of County Road E.

A Blaine woman on Jan. 18 reported the windows of her vehicle smashed in while she was working inside a restaurant in the 1100 block of County Road E.

• A Fridley woman reported that someone had broken in the driver's side window of her orange Jeep Wrangler while it was parked in the 1400 block of County Road E Jan. 18. No suspect information about the recent rash of vehicle vandalism is available.

White Bear Township

A resident in the 5200 block of Otter Lake Road on Jan. 12 reported that someone had broken the door handle off her mobile sauna.

• A Hugo woman, 67, was arrested for DUI Jan. 12 at the intersection of Otter Lake Road and County Road J after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a two-car crash.

• A Cub Foods loss prevention employee in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive on Jan. 15 reported that a customer had paid for merchandise with a counterfeit $100 bill.

• A Cedar man, 38, was cited for theft Jan. 16 after he was caught stealing merchandise from the Cub Foods store.

A license plate was reported stolen from a vehicle parked in the 5300 block of Anderlie Lane on Jan. 16.

Loretta Harding

disorderly conduct.

• A Minneapolis man was arrested for DWI Feb. 9 after officers checked on his stalled vehicle near the intersection of White Bear Avenue and Dell Street.

• Officers mediated a juvenile dispute in the 2400 block of Floral Drive Feb. 9.

• Fraud was reported in the 2300 block of Golfview Drive Feb. 9.

• A civil problem was reported in the 1800 block of Birch Street Feb. 9.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 4700 block of Centerville Road Feb. 10.

• Burglary was reported in the 4300 block of Centerville Road Feb. 10.

• Assault was reported in the 1800 block of Monn Avenue Feb. 10.

• Officers responded to an order for protection violation in the 2000 block of Dotte Drive Feb. 10.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for felony domestic assault in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Feb. 11.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the area of Southwood Drive and Hazel Street Feb. 11.

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

• Birchwood Lane residents on Jan. 20 reported receiving a possible fraudulent letter from the Census Bureau. Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies advised the complainants to phone the Census Bureau to ensure the validity of the letter.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop Jan. 25 on Wildwood Road and Birchwood Avenue and cited the motorist.

Dellwood

Deputies conducted three traffic stops on Dellwood Avenue during their Jan. 25 directed speed patrol, the first for an invalid license plate cover and expired registration. The next two stops occurred within 30 minutes of each other, and both drivers received verbal warnings for speeding.

Grant

• A resident in the 9000 block of Justen Trail N. reported mail theft Jan. 21, after checks he had mailed never reached their destination. The complainant went to his bank, who confirmed financial loss to his account. He then canceled the checking account.

• A mom in the 7000 block of Kimbro Avenue N. on Jan. 23 reached out to deputies to come and arrest her daughter, who had multiple warrants out for her arrest. An hour later, the complainant reported that she and her daughter were in a vehicle on 75th Street N. and Lake Elmo Avenue N. Deputies arrived to pull the

vehicle over and arrest the daughter.

• A resident in the 8000 block of Jody Avenue N. on Jan. 23 reported finding garbage scattered all over the roadway with receipts attached. As the receipts contained only the first name and no other information, the complainant was instructed to just throw the garbage away.

• A dangerous driver was cited Jan. 24 on Dellwood Road and Jamaca Avenue for blowing through a four-way stop sign with no attempt to stop, an action that almost caused an accident.

• Deputies were dispatched out to the scene of sheep on the lam in the 8000 block of Kimbro Lane on Jan. 25. By the time deputies arrived, a neighbor had corralled the sheep and had led them back into their pen.

Mahtomedi

• Deputies left citations on the windshields of four different vehicles between the hours of 1:43 to 2:11 a.m. Jan. 19 for violating the winter parking ban that prohibits overnight parking on public roadways from 1 to 7 a.m. The vehicles had been parked on Shamrock Way, Loretta Lane, Park Avenue and Dahlia Street.

• Motorists everywhere in town will be cited for violating the city winter parking ban, as were two motorists on 72nd Street, and one each on Hallam Avenue, Neptune Street, Grove Street and East Avenue Circle from 1:15 to 2:17 a.m. Jan. 20.

• A motorist on Century Avenue was cited Jan. 20 on Century Avenue for failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for speeding. A verbal warning was issued for speeding.

• A driver was cited on

Homewood Avenue and 72nd Street N. on Jan. 22, 2025, for displaying tabs that expired in 2023.

Deputies conducted three traffic stops on Jan. 23, the first on Hickory Street and East Avenue for expired registration. A motorist on Wildwood Road and Wedgewood Drive was cited for no proof of insurance, after being pulled over for no tag lights. A third motorist was cited on Mahtomedi Avenue for driving after revocation.

• Deputies on directed patrol Jan. 24 conducted two traffic stops in the 3000 block of Century Avenue for expired registration. While on rolling patrol, deputies cited a motorist on East Avenue at Hickory Street for driving without headlights at 5:36 p.m. and for displaying expired registration. A motorist on Mahtomedi Avenue and Neptune Street was cited for displaying registration that expired in July, and a motorist on Wildwood Road was cited for speeding. A driver on Stillwater Road and Hilton Trail N. was cited for failure to dim high beams when approaching other vehicles. Another motorist was cited on Wildwood Road and Birchwood Road for speeding 62 mph in a 45 mph zone.

Willernie

• A motorist was cited Jan. 23 for stop sign violation on Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue. Another motorist was cited Jan. 24 at the same location for no proof of insurance, after being pulled over for non-functioning headlights and license plate lights.

Join in for Veteran Suicide Awareness Walk

BY DEB COURTS-BROWN SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

Join members of VFW Post 1782 and Auxiliary on Feb. 22 and be prepared to walk approximately 2.2 miles at 2:22 p.m. in recognition of the 22 veterans who die by suicide every day. “Died by suicide” is the preferred phrase, not committed suicide. We would like to see as many people as possible make a commitment to walk with us.

We will walk round trip from the VFW Post to Matoska Park. Upon our return to the post, people can sign the poster to indicate their participation and concern for this serious topic. Veterans, if you want to wear your rucksack or uniform that would be appropriate as well. If this time is not convenient, you may walk on your own at another time; still follow the link to indicate your participation, and add your name to the poster at VFW Post 1782. To express your interest in

joining the walk and learn more about suicide awareness, go to http://www.vfwpost1782.org/ run22.html

Suicide is caused by a mental illness; an illness that can be much harder to diagnose in some cases than many other illnesses. Some of the symptoms and signs to look for in a veteran or other friends and family are listed below.

Comments or thoughts about suicide can begin small. For example, “I wish I wasn’t here” or “Nothing matters.” But over time, they can become more explicit and dangerous.

Here are a few warning signs of suicide:

• Increased alcohol and drug use

• Aggressive behavior

• Withdrawal from friends, family and community

• Dramatic mood swings

• Impulsive or reckless behavior

If you or a loved one starts to show any of the following behaviors, seek immediate help

from a health care provider or call 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Veterans, dial “1” after 988 and you will be connected to a person specifically designated to help veterans. Learn what you can about suicide prevention. These are some of the critical signs of a possible impending crisis:

• Collecting and saving pills or buying a weapon

• Giving away possessions Tying up loose ends, like organizing personal papers or paying off debts

• Saying goodbye to friends and family

Do you know someone who has lost their battle to this illness and died by suicide? Or has a family you know lost someone they love? Honor them during this time. Or just enjoy the walk if you haven’t been touched by this illness, and show your support for others who have been.

Deb Courts-Brown is an officer for the Auxiliary of VFW Post 1782.

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

Loretta Harding

SCHOOL PARKING: City seeks feedback around high school

One recommendation the city staff would like the council to consider is to prohibit parking on both sides of Bald Eagle Avenue at any time. Currently, parking is only restricted on the east side of that roadway.

“It pushes a lot of parking on that side, and you have people exiting vehicles, running across at random along that entire length, creating a potential hazard with motorists coming down Bald Eagle,” Kauppi noted.

Parking restrictions would need to be coordinated with Ramsey County, as Bald Eagle Avenue is under county jurisdiction from Ninth Street north to the city limits. Kauppi noted that in preliminary discussions with county staff, they are generally supportive of the city’s recommendations.

Another recommendation is to restrict parking along the south side of Garden Avenue. Kauppi explained that the roadway is 24 feet wide, which does not allow enough room for parking on both sides as well as two-way traffic.

“We saw that Garden was packed on both sides all the way from Bald

Eagle,” Police Chief Dale Hager recalled from the department’s patrols.

The last recommendation is to implement permit parking on Garden Lane, 11th Street, 10th Street, Walnut Street and 12th Street.

“We noticed pockets of problems. We would field complaints from citizens now and again, not as much as we anticipated before the school year started. Most of those were just growing pains,” Hager recalled.

“I attended the football games this fall, and just like the problems with parking at the school, they increasingly

got worse with each game and each week of school.”

He added, “Maybe the first few games weren’t that well attended, but when it came to the last couple, there was quite a potential for a problem in the neighborhood for the residents. … Garden was pretty packed on both sides; 10th was busy and wrapped into the neighborhood … that area could use some work for the upcoming year.”

Permit parking would no longer be necessary at former South Campus (Central Middle School) due to the non-driving student population.

Weekly Outlook

Kauppi noted that the district is “generally supportive” of the city’s findings and recommendations and is on board with what is proposed.

City staff and the council will accept resident feedback likely through midMarch before final recommendations are brought forward to the council for consideration.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.

7:08 5:467:07 5:487:05 5:49 7:03 5:50 7:02 5:527:00 5:546:58 5:55

Weather Tidbits

If you’re returning from midwinter break, you might have experienced a bit of a temperature change. It’s been downright cold. Temperatures have been way below normal. Those of us who have endured this cold spell, I have some good news for you. This is most likely our last of the bitter cold. This past week’s single digit highs will give way to 30’s by Sunday. In the snow department I totaled 2.5 inches on Friday, February 14. I’ve totaled 9.4” for the month and 24 inches for the season. Astro Note: Saturn is setting in the west at sunset while Venus is the bright planet in the west at sunset.

NAMES

Forest Lake graduate serves as U.S. Secretary of Defense

Pete Hegseth, a 1999 Forest Lake High School graduate and class valedictorian, is serving as the 29th U.S. Secretary of Defense. He is the son of Brian and Penny Hegseth. Hegseth has a bachelor’s degree in politics from Princeton University and a master’s degree in public policy from Harvard University.

Hegseth served in the Minnesota Army National Guard from 2003 to 2014 and in the District of Columbia Army National Guard from 2019 to 2021.

Mariner Middle School is proud to select Natalie Triplett as our Academic Achiever. In addition to maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout middle school, she is one of the most smiley, kind and caring students we have in 8th grade. She is focused, works incredibly hard, is a great advocate for her own learning, and is willing to work with anyone in class. When faced with a challenging topic Natalie continues to lean in and push herself to learn the material and persevere in hard situations. Her openness and willingness to try new things will serve her very well for a very long time. Natalie has been involved in WEB and Student Council, she plays club volleyball, participates in her church youth group, and enjoys camping and fishing with her family. Natalie is absolutely stellar! We are lucky to have her!

White Bear Lake Area Church Directory

Natalie Triplett

Mariner Middle School

New windows

installed at City Hall

The city of White Bear Lake recently had new windows installed at City Hall.

The project, which was completed by Murphy Window and Door, replaced windows that were original to the 1998 building.

“The previous windows were residential-grade operational windows, which isn’t suitable for a

commercial building,” said City Manager Lindy Crawford. “After 36 years, you can imagine that they were drafty, most didn’t properly close any longer and they were not energy-efficient.”

Murphy Window and Door Project Manager Matt Smith explained all the windows were replaced with new energy-efficient frames and glass. 3M safety film was also installed on the windows to

enhance the building’s security.

The window project has been in the city’s capital improvement plan for a few years. The project cost $256,000, most of which was funded using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

Shannon Granholm

Steven Showalter Brings an Atmospheric Ceramics Collection to the Art Shop

about buying something handmade. Whether it’s handbeaded jewelry, a hand-poured candle, or a handwoven scarf; you’re not just buying an object, you’re acquiring a story and gaining a connection to the artist. That’s certainly the case with Steven Showalter’s unique ceramics collection popping up at White Bear Center for the Arts’ Ann Tousley Luther Art Shop.

arts educator from Eagan, Steven creates each piece using white stoneware clay on the wheel. To add his own touch, he uses slip, a mix of clay and water to create textured grooves and ridges. Instead of dipping his final creation in glaze, he sprays multiple colors of overlapping glaze in thin

But his pieces aren’t just beautiful; his collection blends modern design with

Ignite Your Child’s

Imagine a summer where creative kids get to use their imagination to craft pottery, paintings, fiber art, and sculpture. Students have a chance to do all this and more at White Bear Center for the Arts’ youth summer camp: Imagine Art.

Running for six weeks throughout the summer, Imagine Art offers an immersive arts experience for kids to explore their creativity in a supportive environment. The camp, which has been a community favorite for years, has been reimagined for 2025. For

Steven makes his products with purpose. Take his multifunctional wine chiller, which keeps wine cool without the mess of ice, but also adds personality to a space whether it holds a bottle of wine, kitchen utensils, or a bouquet of flowers. His candles also serve multiple purposes. Made in partnership with Sensōrius

Creativity

younger campers in grades 1-5, the theme is exploration. Each week, students will experiment with different art forms—from crafting fairy gardens, building their own books, or painting with wool, to give kids a chance to experiment with different mediums while fostering a love for the creative process. For middle schoolers in grades 6-8, Middle School Art Labs offer a deeper dive into artistic expression. A single afternoon session allows students to zero in on one medium, giving them the time and space to not just dip their

Upcoming Avenue of the Arts Events

A Taste of Italy: Veneto

White Bear Center for the Arts

March 4, 6:30-8:00 PM

Learn

at Imagine Art Summer Camp

toes into something new but refine the skills they learn.

Imagine Art has something for every creative kid, no matter their skill level. This summer, the focus is not just on creating but on planting a seed for the lifelong practice of using your imagination.

Parents can take advantage of this month’s early bird discount and take 5% off Imagine Art registrations through February 28.

Spring Equinox Sound Bath & Planting Ceremony

White Bear Center for the Arts

March 20, 7:00-8:00 PM

Join Terrie Arfi for a peaceful sound bath meditation. Experience crystal singing bowls and allow the healing vibrations to reduce your stress, release emotional tension, and promote deep relaxation.

The Book Club Play

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center

March 14-23, 2025

The Book Club Play is a delightful new comedy about life, literature, and the side-splitting results when friends start reading between the lines. Don’t miss out on the unexpected drama that ensues when real life meets reality TV!

The Shape of Things

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center Black Box

February 21-March 2, 2025

Presented by the Century College Playhouse, The Shape of Things is a comic drama about the nature of love and art, and what happens when the two collide.

Contributed Students crafting sock monkeys in last year’s Imagine Art Youth Summer Camp.

Photos by Steven Showalter | Contributed

Students crafting sock monkeys in last year’s Imagine Art Youth Summer Camp.

about the romantic Shakespearean town of Verona and Venice while tasting wine and watching a demonstration on how to make fresh regional gnocchi pasta.

What can you win?

Grand Prize. Prizes are gift cards donated by these Ice Out 2025 sponsors. How do you win?

All entries with the correct ice out date will be placed into a drawing. First ticket drawn will be awarded the grand prize. Runners up will be drawn until all prizes are awarded. You must pick up your prize/ redemption slip at Press Publications before May 31, 2025.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

The basics of consumer credit

A strong credit score is an undeniable asset for consumers. A strong standing in the eyes of potential creditors can save consumers money on relatively shortterm expenses like vehicles and longterm purchases like homes.

Consumer credit is so influential in the lives of the average person that it pays to have some knowledge of what it is and how individuals can use it to their advantage.

Who issues consumer credit?

Consumer credit is typically issued by banks and retailers. One common question consumers have is who owns credit cards, which are among the most recognizable and widely used forms of consumer credit. Many credit card companies, including Visa, are now publicly held companies after years of being owned by banks. However, many major banks, including Capital One and Bank of America, issue credit cards as well.

revolving credit accounts, like consumer credit cards, and installment accounts, which include mortgages and auto loans.

• Credit history length

revolving credit accounts, like consumer credit cards, and installment accounts, which include mortgages and auto loans.

• Credit history length

• Frequency of credit inquiries (numerous inquiries in a short period of time generally lower a consumer’s credit score)

So why is a credit score so important?

What is a credit score?

According to the credit reporting agency Equifax®, a credit score is a three-digit number which represents an individual consumer’s credit risk. Credit risk refers to the likelihood that a borrower will pay their bills on time. Scores are typically between 300

and 850, and the higher the score, the more creditworthy and less risky a consumer is in the eyes of creditors.

How are credit scores calculated?

Three different consumer reporting agencies (CRAs), including Equifax®, determine credit scores. That’s why it’s not uncommon for a single consumer to have three different scores. Those scores should be

similar, and if they’re not it’s likely that one or more CRA reports has an

similar, and if they’re not it’s likely that one or more CRA reports has an error or errors. A host of variables are considered when determining a credit score, and these include:

• Payment history

• Credit utilization ratio, which is the amount of credit used versus the total available credit

• Types of credit accounts a consumer has. This includes

Credit scores are so significant because they can cost or save consumers a substantial amount of money. Consumers with poor scores, which are generally considered scores between 300 and 669, may not be eligible for auto or mortgage loans and may only be able to secure credit cards with high interest rates. By contrast, consumers with scores considered very good to excellent (740 and above) generally get more favorable interest rates on sizable purchases like cars and homes, which can save borrowers tens of thousands of dollars over their lifetimes. Managing credit is a vital component of financial planning. Knowing the basics to consumer credit can set individuals on a sound financial path.

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

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 CEDAR AVE, STE 1, OWATONNA MN 55060

Dated: February 10, 2025

Signed: Farrah Nguyễn

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:

Gold Standard Consulting

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

2532 CRESTLINE DR WHITE BEAR LAKE MN 55110

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.

Ian Robert Goldsmith

2532 CRESTLINE DR WHITE BEAR LAKE MN 55110

Dated: February 6, 2024

Signed: Ian Goldsmith

Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Lindgren Wealth Management

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 708 Cleveland Ave SW, Suite 200 New Brighton, MN 55112

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Erik M Lindgren

708 Cleveland Ave SW, Suite 200 New Brighton, MN 55112

Dated: January 31, 2025

Signed: Erik M Lindgren

Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA

SECRETARY OF STATE

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Westrup Wealth

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 708 Cleveland Ave SW, Suite 200 Saint Paul, 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.

Joseph Westrup

708 Cleveland Ave SW, Suite 200 Saint Paul, MN 55112

Dated: January 31, 2025

Signed: Joseph Westrup

Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CITY COUNCIL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of White Bear Lake will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 4701 Highway 61 N. The purpose of the public hearing is to receive public comment regarding the operations of the dog beach at Matoska Park, located at 4810 Lake Avenue North. Public testimony will be taken at the February 25 public hearing, however no action will be taken. The City Council will continue discussion and consider taking action at its March 11, 2025 meeting. All persons who desire to be heard on the matter will be given the opportunity at the February 25 meeting, or people may submit written comment to clerk@whitebearlake.org

Caley Longendyke, City Clerk

Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 12, 2025 and February 19, 2025.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF ANNUAL TOWN MEETING

White Bear Township’s Annual Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road.

The meeting is being held to consider all business pertinent to the Town of White Bear including the Preliminary Tax Levy for fiscal year 2026.

If there is bad weather as determined by the Town Board on the day of the meeting, the Town Board shall set the meeting for the third Tuesday in March, March 18, 2025. If there is bad weather as determined by the Town Board on the third Tuesday in March, the Town Board shall set another date for the meeting within 30 days of the third Tuesday in March.

Given under my hand this 13th day of February, 2025.

PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Town Clerk

Published one time in the White Bear Press on February 19, 2025.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

JANUARY 13, 2025

Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.

A meeting of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112 at District Center, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1) Chair Ellison called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2) Oath of Office. 3) Roll Call - Present: Daniels, Ellison, Skaar, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed. Absent: none. Ex-Officio: Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak. 4) Pledge of Allegiance. 5) Thompson moved and Beloyed seconded to approve the agenda as presented. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 6) Reorganization of the Board - Streiff Oji nominated Arcand as Chair, Thompson as Vice-Chair, Daniels as Clerk, and Beloyed as Treasurer. There were no further nominations, Arcand was elected Chair, Thompson was elected Vice-Chair, Daniels was elected Clerk, and Beloyed was elected Treasurer by acclamation. 7) Beloyed moved and Thompson seconded to approve the consent agenda consisting of: a) Minutes for Board meetings on December 9, 2024; b) Invoices based upon a random sample, all of which met the standards and guidelines as set by the School Board; c) Resolution regarding acceptance of gifts with thank you letters directed to the donors; d) Field trips; e) Resolution regarding personnel items; and f) Quarterly Investment Report. Roll call vote: Ayes, Daniels, Ellison, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed. Nays, none. Abstention, Skaar. Motion carried. PUBLIC FORUM. INFORMATION ITEMS 1) Overview of Welcome to White Bear and Update on Registration Information for 202526 - Marisa Vette, Director of Communications and Community Relations, spoke about January’s Welcome to White Bear activities, including a schedule of events. 2) Superintendent’s Report - Dr. Kazmierczak spoke about the 43rd Annual Jazz Night Club event coming up on January 25. He also gave information about the Field House walking track, emergency school closing procedures and the District Center move. March 3rd is the first Board meeting tentatively scheduled at the new Sunrise Park location. He finished by showcasing a video of our high school students participating in a schoolwide SKOL chant. DISCUSSION ITEMS. OPERATIONAL ITEMS 1) Ellison moved and Daniels seconded to approve the action on the School Board Operating Procedures for 2025. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 2) Beloyed moved and Thompson seconded to approve the action on the School Board Members’ Compensation for 2025. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 3) Beloyed moved and Daniels seconded to approve the action on the Appointment of Intermediate School District 916 Representative for 2025. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 4) Thompson moved and Streiff Oji seconded to approve the action on Regular and Work Session Meeting Schedule for 2025-26. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 5) Streiff Oji moved and Ellison seconded to approve the action on Official Publication for the School District for 2025. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 6) Beloyed moved and Ellison seconded to approve the action on Appointment of Compliance Officers. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 7) Streiff Oji moved and Daniels seconded to approve the action on Local Education Agency Authorization. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 8) Beloyed moved and Ellison seconded to approve the action on Designation of Legal Counsel. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 9) Thompson moved and Beloyed seconded to approve the action on Official Depositories for School District Funds and Authorized Bank Accounts and Signatures. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 10) Daniels moved and Streiff Oji seconded to approve the action on Annual Authorization Allowing Administration to Contract for Budgeted Items. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 11) Ellison moved and Thompson seconded to approve the action on Annual Resolution to Increase Micro Purchase Threshold. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 12) Thompson moved and Ellison seconded to approve the action on School Board Policies: a) 501, School Weapons Policy; b) 526, Hazing Prohibition. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. BOARD FORUM. ADJOURNMENT - Ellison moved and Thompson seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:13 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Kathleen Daniels, clerk. Published one time in the White Bear Press on February 19, 2025.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

JANUARY 27, 2025

Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.

A work session of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, January 27, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112 at District Center, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1) Call to Order - Chair Arcand called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2) Roll Call - Present: Skaar, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed, Daniels. Absent: Ellison. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1) Fiscal Year 2023-24 Annual Audit Report - Mr. Jim Eichten from the District’s auditing firm of Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich and Co., P.A. (MMKR) presented the fiscal year 2023-24 audit report. 2) Overview of Community Survey Results - Peter Leatherman from The Morris Leatherman Company provided an overview of the results from a community survey that was conducted in December. 3) Lincoln Elementary Update - Dr. Alison Gillespie, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, and Brian Morris, Principal, gave an update on Lincoln Elementary School. 4) Matoska International Update - Dr. Alison Gillespie, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, and John Leininger, Principal, gave an update on Matoska International Elementary School. OPERATIONAL ITEMS 1) Thompson moved and Streiff Oji seconded to approve the Action on Fiscal Year 2023-24 Annual Audit Report. Roll call vote: Ayes, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed, Daniels. Nays, none. Abstention, Skaar. Motion carried. ADJOURNMENT - Thompson moved and Skaar seconded to adjourn the meeting at 7:53 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Kathleen Daniels, clerk.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on February 19, 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.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-61

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL APPOINTMENT OF SPECIAL ADMINISTRATOR In Re the Estate of: Santigie Bangoura, Decedent.

Notice is given that a Petition for Formal Appointment of Special Administrator was filed with this Court on January 24, 2025. Any objections to the Petition must be filed with this Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper, and no objections are filed, the Court may appoint the special administrator. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled. Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.

Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

NOTICE IS GIVEN that a remote hearing on the Petition will be heard by the Ramsey County Probate Court on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 1:20 p.m.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that service of this Notice shall be given by mailing a copy of this Notice to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice pursuant to Minn. Stat. 524.3-204. BY THE COURT:

Dated: January 27, 2025

Michael F. Upton, District Court Administrator

BY: Benjamin Linker, Deputy Court Administrator

Self-Represented Litigant: Fatmata Bangoura 9208 29th Avenue North New Hope, MN 55427

Published two times in the White Bear Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

• To measure students’ academic progress, ISD 624 uses FastBridge, a state-approved, universal screening tool that tests students in the fall, winter and spring. Principal on Special Assignment Cynthia Mueller presented to the school board literacy ability comparisons covering fall to winter. Kindergarten’s fall testing revealed that 44% of children showed at least some risk of developing reading problems. In winter, that figure fell to 35%. While most elementary grade levels showed reduction in the percentage of “at-risk” children from fall to winter, they were slight when compared to kindergarten. Mueller explained that, after kindergarten, a student must make much more progress in order to move to a “low-risk” level. Mueller stressed that early reading intervention is paramount to a child’s academic success. Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Dr. Alison Gillespie noted that, for higher elementary grades, even maintaining risk-level percentages is a feat worth celebrating.

Mueller said that families of students who scored in the “at-risk” area will receive a formal letter. The letter explains the screening process and includes specific indicators of dyslexia, if relevant. “It talks through what those screening assessments are and then also specific strategies for how they can help their child at home,” Mueller stated. “A key part of this has been to have (the screening results) as part of the parent-teacher conference, so that the teacher can … walk through and really explain that this is what it looks like for your child.”

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Legion now serving food

• The school board is recognizing students who were part of the cast, orchestra and technical team of last fall’s musical, “Legally Blonde.” Hennepin Theatre Trust Spotlight Awards bestowed, to the entire production, Outstanding Dance Performance, Technical Production, Sound Crew and Run Crew. Individual outstanding awards included Performance in a Leading Role to Yahaira Nok-Chiclana, Performance in a Supporting Role to Lily Switajewski, Performance in a Featured Role to Holly Flood and Technical Leadership to Jacob Pasiuk and Dylan Peterson. To view a video listing each student’s accomplishment, visit youtube.com/@ ISD624.

• The board held a first reading of numerous policies, including those concerning distribution of nonschool-sponsored materials on school premises, academic recognition and student field trips. All changes either dealt with punctuation or were clericalbased. The policies will come before the board again next month for a second reading and final approval.

The White Bear Lake Area School Board next meets at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, at 4855 Bloom Ave. for its monthly work session. The public may also livestream the meeting from isd624.org/about/school-board/ meeting-materials. Starting in March 2025, the board plans to move its meetings to the new District Service Center at Sunrise Park, 2399 Cedar Ave., White Bear Lake.

Logan Gion

• The board is separating Silver Fox Road and the section of Jenni Lane north of Richard Road from a proposed street improvement project located near the intersection of Portland Avenue and Buffalo Street. While 14 other roads nearby will be milled and repaved this summer, Silver Fox Road and Jenni Lane may require water and sewer utility installation. Assessments for this project were originally estimated at $61,000 before hookup costs. Multiple affected homeowners commented that these assessments, when combined with recent property tax increases, would make living in the neighborhood a financial hardship. Said neighborhood resident Cheryl Smith, “I was one of the neighbors who met a contractor. $30,000, that’s what he estimated a replacement of a septic (system) … When you come and start talking about $80,000? That’s more than what I paid for my house.” The board members took this disparity into consideration and resolved to investigate the financial impact further before finalizing a project.

• Requests to install a 25-mph speed limit sign on Mehegan Lane where it intersects Centerville Road and a three-way stop sign at Peterson Road and Mehegan Lane are being sent back to the Public Safety Commission. “Some of the neighbors weren’t informed of what was being propositioned here,” explained Town Supervisor Chair Ed Prudhon. “All the neighbors that are connected to this will be informed …” Separately, a request for a speed limit sign on Peterson Road will need to be resubmitted to Ramsey County

because the length of street in question is longer than half a mile.

• The board unanimously denied a variance request brought forward by Michael Dunham of Birch Knoll Drive. Dunham had extended a driveway into the required side yard setback and exceeded the maximum coverage area allowed for a lot. He explained to the board that his contractor falsely told him all of the construction was permitted, and argued that the finished construction was a net improvement on the lot and stopped soil erosion. Town Attorney Chad Lemmons stated, “You can’t privately negate an ordinance. I understand it was in good faith, but you can’t do it the way you did it.” Prudhon added, “You really should have this contractor come out and correct his mistake.”

• Township resident Pat Kocian felt the township’s ordinance regarding beekeeping was too strict when compared to surrounding communities. Lemmons explained, “The problem is there’s nothing in our ordinances that deals with bees directly… we have to formulate a plan so the board can look at it.”

Because of Presidents Day observance on Feb. 17, the White Bear Township Board next meets at 4200 Otter Lake Road at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. To view the livestream of the meeting, visit youtube.com/@ WhiteBearTownshipMNOfficial/ streams.

Logan Gion

White Bear Lake American Legion 168 is now serving food. The Smug Pug Kitchen, which also operates a food truck and catering business, is serving soups, sandwiches and Mexican specialties inside the Legion Thursday through Saturday. For weekly hours of operation, visit them on Facebook:Smugpugtruck.

The American Legion is located at 2210 Third Street, White Bear Lake.

Art classes at Oldies & Goodies

White Bear Lake retailer Oldies & Goodies is hosting several upcoming workshops. An Introduction to Embroidery Class will teach participants how to set up a hoop and use basic stitches, with materials provided. Classes will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 22 and March 1. A painting class for all levels led by local art teacher Sarah Gessey will

OBITUARIES

Joe Baillargeon

Long time resident of WBL, age 74, passed away unexpectedly on January 25, 2025.

Survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Sheryl, children Scott (Alicia), Lisa Polinceusz (Tom), Dana Rucker (Chris); 7 grandkids; many relatives and friends. Visitation: 2/21 from 4-7pm at Washburn-McReavy, Shoreview, MN Mass: 2/22 at 11am at St. Mary of the Lake Church, WBL (Visitation at 10am) Full obituary: www.washburn-mcre avy.com

be held from 6 to 8 p.m. March 4. Classes are held at the store, located at 4717 Clark Avenue, White Bear Lake.

For more information about classes or to register, call 612-888-4520 or visit oldiesandgoodiesmn.com/ classes-and-events.

Area Edina Realty Realtors achieve special recognition Edina Realty recently recognized several Realtors from the White Bear Lake office for outstanding sales performance, market knowledge and customer service as members of Edina Realty's Executive, Elite, Diamond, Platinum or Crystal Circles. Membership in Edina Realty’s Circles places them among the top Edina Realty agents as follows: Executive Circle – top 3%; Elite Circle – top 5%; Diamond Circle – top 10%; Platinum Circle – top 19%; and Crystal Circle – top 33%. Crystal Circle includes Liz Baker, Joshua Drivdahl,

Quentin Carlson

Age 89, of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Preceded in death by brother, Ron Carlson; parents Rueben and Evelyn Carlson. Survived by wife, of 63 years, Myrna; children Karen Carlson, and Lisa Engman; grandson Lukas Engman. A funeral service will be on Friday, February 21st, at 11 AM at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3700 Bellaire Ave. White Bear Lake, MN Visitation one hour prior with lunch to follow. Memorials preferred to Minnesota DNR or Redeemer Lutheran Church. Arrangements by Honsa Family Funeral Home. 651-4296172.

Claire Marjorie (Andring) Cook

Donis Dzialo, Pat Frucci, Rick Guy, The Peltiers - Tracy and Jason, The Reinkings – Kate and Phil, and Ben Stewart.

Platinum Circle includes Doug Donovan, Jim Kramer, Denise Larson and Erich Young.

Diamond Circle includes The Bacchus-Ecklin Group - Jane Bacchus, Jon Ecklin, Sean Ecklin and Tyler Peickert.

Executive Circle includes The Mark Ashby Group – Dana Ashby and Mark Ashby, and The Madores –Kathy Madore and Lisa Madore.

“Our top-performing agents exemplify the dedication, expertise and client-first mindset that set Edina Realty apart,” said Sharry Schmid, Edina Realty president. “Their hard work and commitment to excellence drive their success and strengthen our reputation as a leader in the industry — and the topselling broker in our market for the 25th consecutive year. We are proud to celebrate their achievements.”

86, died peacefully at home on February 7, 2025. Claire was born September 2, 1938, in Waukon, MN, daughter of Raymond and Gertrude (Martin) Andring. After graduating from Mahnomen High School, she moved to St. Paul, where she met John (Jack) Cook, whom she married on May 2, 1959. She and Jack moved to White Bear Lake, MN, where they raised their six children, and she lived until she passed away. Claire was very active in her community and her church, ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH, where she made many lifelong friends who shared adventures and provided tremendous support to her over the years.

Claire is survived by her children Gayle Gartner of White Bear Lake, Patrick Cook of St. Paul, Therese Einarsson of Orange Park, FL; Barbara Cook of White Bear Lake, Catharine Cervantes of Minneapolis and Carolyn (Mike Brier) Cook-Brier of St. Paul. She was a proud grandmother to David (Jessica) Palmer, Laura (John) Flanigan, Jeffrey (Domonique) Palmer, John Einarsson, Stefan Cook,

Bradley Einarsson, Jenna Cervantes (Ander Iruretagoyena), Carter Cervantes, Jaclynn Cook, Sarah (Kyle Nelson) Chiado; and eleven greatgrandchildren. She is also survived by brother Richard (Darlene) Andring of Gary, sister Beverly (Virgil) Amsden of St. Paul, sister-in-law Doreen Andring of Lakeville, numerous nieces and nephews, and many close friends.

Claire was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, son-in-law Gary Gartner, granddaughter Kathryn Palmer; and siblings Arnold (Ann) Andring, Leonard (Joanne) Andring, Vernon (Ione) Andring, Lucille (Raymond) Gish, Helen (William) Lindberg, William Andring, Mary (Eugene) Moore, and David Andring.

A visitation will be held on February 19, 2025, from 4:00-8:00pm at MUELLER MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME located at 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake. A funeral service will follow on February 20, 2025, at 11:00 am at St. Pius X Catholic Church, located at 3878 Highland Ave, White Bear Lake. Visitation and rosary will be held an hour before mass. Burial will be held on February 21 at 2:30pm at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Cemetery in White Bear Lake. A celebration of life will be held in Mahnomen later this spring.

Claire was loved deeply by her family and friends and will be forever missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or St. Pius X Catholic Church in White Bear Lake in Claire’s memory. Arrangements MuellerMemorial.com 651-429-4944.

WHITE BEAR

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

Evangelia “Angie” Wold President/CEO

Above: Dena Loesch and Dawn Schwantes got into the spirit of the recent VFW Horseshoes on Ice tournament on White Bear Lake by wearing horse costumes and Brian and Elliana Maher, top right, begin their rapid journey down a popular sliding hill covered with fresh snow.

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS

Multiple vehicle collision reported at Centerville Road

On Sunday, Feb. 9, emergency responders arrived at the scene of a vehicle accident involving multiple injuries on Centerville Road in Vadnais Heights. A bystander called 911 at 8:32 p.m. regarding the accident, and

the city's fire and rescue team came to the scene soon after. Both medics and fire crews worked together to help those injured from the collision. Officials have currently not provided information on how many vehicles were involved in the collision nor the severity of injuries from those afflicted. The incident remains under investigation.

Car accident reported near Cedar and McKnight

At 8:20 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, White Bear Lake Police and Fire responded to the sight of a car accident near Cedar Avenue and McKnight Road in White Bear Lake. According to Police Chief Dale Hager, the accident resulted from a city resident failing to stop at a stop sign, which led to the collision. The driver who was hit received minor injuries and was evaluated, but not transported, while the offending driver was cited for his failure to stop.

Transforming Spaces Elevating Lifestyles

NEIGHBORHOOD CHURCH: Requests feedback, flexibility from city

forward” for the application would be to consider a planned unit development (PUD) to allow for deviations from side yard setback, impervious surface and parking requirements.

The property was first used as a church as early as 1937 after a hotel ceased to operate on the site. In 1943, the original building was torn down and a new church was constructed. An addition was built in 1951. In 1986, a conditional use permit was granted to allow the church to expand and renovate the building and parking lot. In 1987, a variance was granted to allow a vestibule/front addition to be constructed within 22 feet of the front property line when 25 feet is required. Emmaus Church has called the site home since November 2020.

“Everyone in the congregation fell in love with the property, the place, the town,” said Caleb Berge, a member of the church and the architect who developed the plans for the concept plan. “As we started to understand that we were growing, we felt very constrained.”

The side yard setback is required to be 20 feet, whereas the applicant is proposing 10 feet. The second issue is impervious surface. Impervious surfaces do not let water soak into the ground. Due to its proximity to White Bear Lake, the property is located within the shoreland overlay district, which limits the impervious surface to 30% coverage. Lindahl explained that the plans indicate that the proposed addition will make the site 40.2% impervious surface. The third issue is parking. The church is required to have 103 parking stalls, but it is proposing none.

“This is by no means the final design. This is our attempt to understand the constraints and try to address them and articulate them in a way that is appropriate,” Berge said. “We can go back to the drawing board. It is difficult working with a small piece of property … but there will still need to be some conditions that deviate from the zoning code. That’s why we are intent on seeking a PUD and trying to create a level of design that could enhance the neighborhood.”

Several residents who live near the church described the church as “good neighbors” but expressed their concerns about its expansion.

Ed Cox, who lives across from the church, said

the church used to be pretty “low impact” to the neighborhood but over the past year he has noticed “more pressure on the neighborhood.”

He described the church’s proposal as “over the top” and said perhaps it was time that the growing organization find more space at a different location.

Scott Buss purchased the house directly west of the church in August. He said he is happy to have the church as a neighbor, but he has concerns regarding the size of the building, the proposed side yard setback, light pollution, noise (from mechanical equipment) and stormwater management.

Scott’s wife, Stephanie, added, “A church doesn’t have to be as large as an Eagle Brook Church to completely change how the space is experienced. Doubling the size of the building next door to us is going to change how we experience that house, how we experience the neighborhood.”

“This is by no means the final design. This is our attempt to understand the constraints and try to address them and articulate them in a way that is appropriate,”

Caleb Berge Architect

Stuart Avenue resident Jay Rendall questioned the need for a PUD. “It’s in the shoreland district; you can only have a certain level of impervious surface. Those things are set by state law, and they should be followed,” he said.

Rendall suggested that one solution might be for the church to add an additional service.

Resident Bonnie Sommerville said she loved the idea of a church on the property. She pointed out that on her property, they had to pay over $30,000 to correct impervious surface percentages. “Since we did our part to do what was required by the city, I think the church should have to do that as well,” she said.

Bonnie’s husband Craig added, “The building is just too big for the space … I’d like to see something more

appropriate to the scale of the property.”

Tom Boyer, senior pastor of the church, pointed out that even with the expansion, the church would still be one of the smallest churches in White Bear Lake. “There are single-family homes that are bigger than this. It would not be a monstrosity by any means,” he said.

Boyer added that a church use was not comparable to that of a pizza place or boutique shop. He explained that he has offered counseling services to church members struggling with suicidal thoughts, depression and anxiety, all free of charge. “Consider the needs of those who are suffering, emotional needs, not just economic needs. We understand this is a big ask. We are open to hearing your thoughts on how this plan might be able to work for the city with changes.”

Mayor Dan Louismet shared his thoughts. “(The building) is really big on a really small property in what is a quaint neighborhood … I think it will fundamentally change the characteristic of the neighborhood,” he said. “I like quaint downtown White Bear. That’s what I grew up experiencing, and that’s what I want to preserve.”

He added that going from a little on-site parking to zero on-site parking was “not realistic.”

“I don’t see how the continued trajectory of what your congregation is doing works for the space,” Louismet said.

Council Member Heidi Hughes pointed out that some years back Lakeshore Players, which was located a couple blocks away from the church, had zero on-site parking but was able to make it work. She encouraged the church to try to “make it look as residential as possible.”

Council Member Bill Walsh inquired whether city staff had explored other possible locations for the church. “I don’t want them to leave, I don’t want them to fail, but this is a difficult application,” he said. “Maybe this isn’t the site, but keeping them in White Bear Lake.”

Lindahl said city staff had not discussed other locations with the church, as they had not expressed interest in relocating.

“In general, I think it is really hard to see this development on that site,” Council Member Kevin Edberg said, adding that he would continue to think about options and listen to possible solutions.

ing, snow and ice remo val. High School diploma or GED, moderate experience or a combination of equivalent education and expe rience. Current MN State Engineer s License no le ss th an sec ond class "C". $25.31

CLASSIFIEDS

Facilities Engineer

Performs work monitoring, repairing, and maintaining county buildings and grounds; conducting inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs on HVAC and boiler systems, assisting with general landscaping functions, mowing, weed whipping, performing tree maintenance, conducting snow and ice removal seasonally.

High School diploma or GED and moderate experience, or a combination of equivalent education and experience. Maintain a current Minnesota State Engineers License of not less than second class "C". $25.31 to $33.34 DOQ.

Apply online at www.chisagocountymn.gov by February 24, 2025.

The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of the Advertiser or Agency, including claims for libel, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.

THERAPY: Empowerment through cold plunging

came from curiosity, starting with a video from Swedish YouTuber Jonna Jinton. “I saw her do it, and there was something so beautiful and peaceful about the whole thing,” said Schmidt. “Plus, she had this awesome saw.”

After buying this saw, used primarily by ice fishers to cut holes for spearing, angling and sight fishing, Schmidt’s next move was to use it to cut out a 2-foot hole into a lake of his preference—which happened to be none other than White Bear Lake.

Rather than discarding the excess ice, Schmidt arranged these chunks around the hole. “It was sort of honoring what comes out of the lake,” he said. “The only other option is to slide it under the ice. You can only do it if you cut it so long. As water circulates around, it all sort of erodes, and because of how it’s sloped, when you shove it under it tends to come right back in.”

In describing cold water therapy, Schmidt said he often sees the process as experiencing it without considering the temperature. “When it comes to the self-empowerment side of it, it’s about experiencing it not as cold,” he said.

“If you’re only thinking about that water as a

temperature, it’s more of a sensation, like a cold shower, which is kind of miserable. You have water droplets hitting you everywhere, and it’s not very comfortable. If you can quiet yourself in a cold shower, that’s one thing. When you go into that ice water, it’s one sensation, which is what’s so amazing about it.”

According to Schmidt, cold water therapy often comes with its own challenges, especially beginning with the hole’s setup. “It’s a lot of work,” Schmidt said of using his saw to cut out the hole. “By the time I’m going into that hole, I’m soaking in steam. I have to bring an entirely different change of clothes for when I get out, because everything I’ve worn is frozen by the time I get back into it. Mentally, though, doing it is a huge depression killer. When you come out of it, the dopamine high you get from it comes on and builds slowly, then keeps growing throughout the day. It’s multiple times higher than what you get from cigarettes, one that’s actually beneficial and healthy.”

For warmer, ice-less weather, Schmidt practices cold water therapy in a specially-built chest freezer in his house, modified to include both water and a thick layer of ice over the top.

Schmidt is a member of the Lake Johanna Ice

Dippers, a social group of cold water enthusiasts that meets at the titular lake in Arden Hills on Sundays from November through April. According to Schmidt, this group frequently sees newcomers join, which allows him to guide them through being a first-time lake-dipper.

“The reaction your body is going to want to have is to tense up,” said Schmidt, who recommends that newcomers should be in the water for no longer than two minutes for their first dip. “The first 15 to 30 seconds is where you kind of freak out. Even if you’re in for just 15 seconds and come out, you’re still going to feel great, and you’ve accomplished something.”

Schmidt said that he also tries to pursue mental and physical relaxation through other means. However, none come quite as close as pursuing cold water therapy, first and foremost. “Meditation and yoga are important things. But I find that during the winter, icedipping covers a lot of that. So that’s always going to be a part of me.”

Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229 or email at lowdownnews@presspubs.com.

PHOTOS BY JOHNNIE SCHMIDT | CONTRIBUTED

Johnnie Schmidt is a practitioner and strong advocate of cold water therapy.

A beautiful, eye-popping view of a sunrise on White Bear Lake, with Schmidt’s custom-made ice hole just below.

MAHTOMEDI & WILLERNIE

Hooked on Learning: Mahtomedi Students learn science, skill of ice fishing

ALICE SEUFFERT SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

Mahtomedi students recently swapped their Science classroom at O.H. Anderson (OHA) Elementary School for ice-covered White Bear Lake. Students dressed in their winter gear walked the snowy path out to the pop-ups on the lake to try out an experience that, for many, was the first time: ice fishing. The opportunity was made possible through ELPIS Enterprises, a non-profit organization that aims to get 10,000 youth anglers to experience ice fishing.

A “No Child Left Inside” grant from the Department of Natural Resources funds their efforts. They are also supported in their efforts with staffing from nonprofits, Baztec Fishing & Outdoors, and Ardent Outdoor Group. All instruction, fishing poles and pop-up tents are provided through the program. Family volunteers assisted the guides

with instruction and support. Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office provided safety support and provided Polaris vehicle rides for students who needed physical assistance reaching the ice houses.

Mahtomedi’s educational foundation provided bus transportation to and from the school to Bellaire Beach, the launching point for the fishing lesson.

OHA Science teacher Katie Swarthout secured the opportunity by working with Karl Erickson from ElPIS. Erickson recently worked with OHA on their third-grade in-house field trip to build bird feeders.

During the fishing experience, students had the opportunity to try out the skill of fishing and explore important science-related topics. Swarthout shared, “The Science curriculum teaches students about animals, environmental science, and the water cycle, and the fishing program combines these elements in a

fun learning environment right in our backyard.”

For some students, this was the first time they’d ever fished, and for others, it was the first time they had ever walked on a frozen lake.

Fayo Aman, a fifth-grade OHA student, shared, “This was my first time fishing. It’s really fun and nice. I like being outside in the cold and ice.”

During the event, students could fish directly on the ice or in pop-up houses. Some of the pop-ups had fish finders so students could see the fish moving right under the houses.

Audrey Schultz, another fifth-grade student, had been fishing but never ice fishing, and she shared, “It’s fun and cool because you don’t know what’s going to happen, it’s unexpected!”

Learning experiences that provide new opportunities to explore student interests are something Mahtomedi prides itself on. Principal Susie Prather

shared this about the experience, “At Mahtomedi, we take pride in providing students opportunities to explore and develop their interests. Providing unique learning experiences helps students discover who they are, builds confidence, and fosters a love of learning.”

Not only did students reel in some new science-related skills, but they did pull a few fish out of the lake. A couple of lucky anglers caught fish, and each time a fish was caught, there were loud cheers to be heard from that pop-up on the lake. Most of the catches were panfish, but there were several northern pike pulled out of the lake during the visit!

Alice Seuffert is the director of communications for Mahtomedi Public Schools.

Karl Erickson, ELPIS Enterprises

PHOTOS

Fayo Aman

appointments and no-pressure financing. Our goal is “Complete Family Dentistry that is Easy, Comfortable and Affordable.”

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Lawns To Legumes grants open to garden lovers

Any Minnesota resident with an outdoor planting space is eligible to apply for a fall 2025 Lawns to Legumes grant. The Lawns to Legumes program focuses on increasing habitat for atrisk pollinators in residential settings by providing reimbursement-based funding, workshops, coaching and gardening resources. Residents with a yard, deck or other outdoor space for planting can apply to be reimbursed for up to $400 in costs associated with establishing a new pollinator habitat. The program is available to both Minnesota homeowners and renters. This grant is open to Minnesota residents only. Those interested in applying can do so at the Blue Thumb website at www.bluethumb.org/lawnsto-legumes/apply/.

Decodables offered for emerging readers

Decoding Dyslexia Minnesota and the Ramsey County Library have partnered to provide a new collection of decodable books for beginning readers. Decodable books allow students to practice decoding words in a systematic and cumulative way. Teachers and local librarians can help families select books that match the sounds and phenomes children are learning at school.

White Bear Lake, Shoreview, Mounds View, Maplewood, New Brighton, North St. Paul and Roseville are among the participating Ramsey County Libraries. For more information and to see the decodable books collection, go to rclreads.org/kids.

Ellen Swift, DDS & Paul Anderson, DDS

Zephyrs pull out win with late heroics

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Mark Graff sank five points and made two steals in the last 15 seconds, and totaled 32 points, as Mahtomedi tripped St. Thomas Academy 55-54 there Wednesday evening.

“A very exciting end to the game,” coach Keith Newman said.

With the Zephyrs down 54-50, Graff sank a three-pointer from the corner with 15 seconds left. A Cadet was fouled and missed two free shots. The rebound went off a Zephyr out of bounds, but, in the

inbounds play, Graff “read the play,” Newman said, yanked the ball out of Andrew Noble’s hands at the elbow. The junior guard dashed to the other end of the court for a go-ahead layup with four seconds left — then sealed the win by stealing the inbounds pass.

Graff made 15 of 17 free shots and three of six 3-pointers to score 32 points for the second straight game. Willie Roelofs added 14 points.

Noble led the Cadets (11-9) with 17.

On Friday, Mahtomedi (11-7) scored the first 16 points and cruised 7950 over North St. Paul (11-7). Willie Roelofs notched 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three blocks. Hank Roelofs had 14 points, 10 rebounds, six blocks and six assists. Mark Graff had 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists.

Bear skaters enter playoffs after grueling week

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake hockey lost to No. 4 ranked St. Thomas Academy and No. 7 Cretin-Derham Hall while beating Woodbury in the final week of the regular season. The Bears (15-7-3) start Section 4AA Saturday hosting Woodbury at 5 p.m. The Bears won 3-0 at Woodbury with goals by Will Distad (two) and Tyler Lalonde, and 20 saves by Leo Gabriel. They lost to STA 2-0.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake sank 14 threepointers, by eight different shooters, and won at Mounds View 66-42. The Bears (16-8) then beat Park 56-38. The 14 three’s — two short of a team record set about 15 years ago, coach Jeremy Post said — came from Chloe Theissen (four, scoring 14 points), Abby O’Brien (three, 11 points), Sophie Menier (two, eight points), and Amelia Post, Maddy Thompson, Brie Hartzel, Elise Dieterle and Marin Peterson one each. Addi Post also had 14 points. Against Park (9-14), Theissen sank 19 points, Menier 14, Post 10 and Deiterle nine. Theissen made three trifectas and Menier two. The Bears have won four straight, and hold third place at 11-5 in the Suburban East.

BOYS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake is 11-9 after a busy week as they beat Duluth East 56-46, lost to Mounds View 72-61, and beat Park 80-70. At Duluth East (7-14), Rithy

Gabriel stopped 37 of 38 shots, the second goal an empty netter. Cretin-Derham Hall nipped the Bears 2-1 in overtime to wrap up the SEC title with a 15-1 record. Stillwater was 14-2 and the Bears third at 12-3-1. Zach Baay scored for the Bears at 1:02 of the third period, Liam Maloy assisting. Max Anderson countered for CDH a minute later. In OT, Anderson struck again at 1:58. Gabriel made 19 saves. Owen Nelson made 26 for CDH.

Sain had 13 points on 6-for-7 shooting, four assists and two steals. Korey Raheem shot 6-for-10 for 12 points. Colin Piper had eight points and eight rebounds, and John Johnson six points, eight rebounds and four steals. Gavin Krenz added seven points. Against Mounds View (16-6), Raheem and Gavin Krenz sank 12 points each, Johnson 11 and Sain eight. Piper had 12 rebounds, three steals and six points.

WRESTLING

White Bear Lake won its opening match at Section 4AA A over Irondale/ Spring Lake Park 38-28, then lost to eventual champion Stillwater 64-4, at Roseville. The Bears finished duals with a 7-11 record. They still have the section individuals tournament Saturday at Stillwater. Bears winning against I/SLP were Indiana Kane (pin), Noah Ludwig (14-4), Galvin Nathanson (pin), Samuel Mortenson (9-0), Porter Cleary (pin) and Mason Magnuson (pin). The only points against No. 3 ranked Stillwater came from Christian Carlson with a 14-3 major decision at 133.

ALPINE

Two White Bear Lake athletes competed in the state Alpine Ski meet on at Giants Ridge, having qualified at the section meet. Cooper Feirn placed 54th of 88 boys with times of 39.90 and 43.48 for a 1:23.38 total. Josie Guidinger placed 63rd of 87 girls with times of 44.16 and 44.90 for a 1:29.06 total. Both are juniors.

Bruce Strand

Liberty Classical Academy basketball teams on road to victory with 3 1K point career wins

Liberty Classical Academy recently announced three upper school students have scored 1,000 career points. Senior Olivia Louis (avg. 22 points/ game) and juniors Ethan Richter (avg. 21 points/game) and Sam Rupnow (27.6 points/game) have all accomplished this achievement within the past few weeks.

Louis, Richter, Rupnow and their teammates have blazed the path toward the upcoming Eastern Minnesota Athletic Conference, where they will compete for the championship. The girls' varsity team has an 8-1 conference record, with 13-7 overall. The boys' varsity has a 7-1 conference record, 18-3 overall.

"We are incredibly proud of the hard work our varsity girls and boys basketball athletes have displayed this season,” said Liberty Athletic Director Dave St. Martin. “Oliva, Ethan and Sam have also worked diligently to reach these exciting milestones, and their effort and talent will take them far!"

GYMNASTICS

Mahtomedi has one state qualifier, Lucy Otto, after the Zephyrs placed third in the Section 4A meet. Breck, the host, scored 143.775, Simley 136.20 and the Zephyrs 135.975. Otto placed third on floor exercise with 8.725, advancing to the state meet Saturday in St. Paul. Lily Bush placed seventh (8.375) and Otto eighth (8.35) on uneven bars. Grace Tronrud placed sixth (8.97) and Otto eighth (8.725) on balance beam. The top eight earn medals. Tronrud placed ninth on bars (8.225) and Cassie Hartman 10th (8.00). Bush was ninth on beam (8.625). Bruner was ninth on floor (8.75).

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Mahtomedi lost to No. 6 ranked DeLaSalle (No. 6 in Class 3A) 84-65 and to Eastview (No. 4 in Class 4A) 65-50, then won at North St. Paul 65-41. The No. 9 Zephyrs are 18-6. Anna Greene had 27 points and six rebounds against DLS, 16 points against Eastview and 22 against

North. Ella Frazier notched 20 against DLS and 14 against Eastview, and had four points, five assists and four steals against North. Grace Prose had 30 points for the week. Emily Muetzel logged nine points and six rebounds against North, and 10 rebounds against Eastview.

NORDIC

Luke Vipond of Mahtomedi closed his prep career with a solid 35th place finish among 112 entrants in the state meet at Giants Ridge. His times were 15:54.7 in freestyle and 15:41.9 in classic for a 31:36.3 total.

BOYS HOCKEY

Mahtomedi won its conference finale over Hastings 4-1 with two goals by Zach Zins and one each by Joey Pipes and Ryan Lipovetz, and 14 saves by Wes Strub. Mahtomedi finished 4-41 in the Metro East for fourth place. St. Thomas Academy was 8-0. The Zephyrs (8-15-2) lost at St. Cloud Cathedral 4-3 in overtime, leading 3-1 before Griffin Sturm scored the last three

goals for the Crusaders (15-8-2). Scoring for Mahtomedi were Jaeger Wood, Brayden Fuerst and Brock Gutterman while Devin O’Donnell made three assists. The Zephyrs are seeded second in Section 4A and face South St. Paul on Friday at 5 p.m. at Aldrich Arena.

WRESTLING

Mahtomedi beat North St. Paul 45-24 in the first round of Section 4AA, then lost to No. 2 ranked Simley 59-15, ending their dual meet season with a 12-13 record. Winning against North were Aidan Carlson (pin), Isaac Opitz (pin), Owen Eigen (pin), Henry Johnson (18-3), Samuel White (11-8), Jacob Kalimu (pin), Aiden Boex (12-7), Evan McGuire (pin) and Dawson Dubac (13-4). Winning against Simley were Carlson (17-2), Boex (14-4) and McGuire (pin). Section individuals will be held Saturday at North St. Paul.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Addison Post

White Bear Lake Basketball

Febrary 19, 2025

Addison Post is the floor leader for White Bear Lake basketball, averaging 10.3 points, four assists and four rebounds for the 16-8 Bears. The 5-foot-6 left-hander, in her third year starting, also plays tenacious defense. Post is a threat from behind the arc — she hit a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer against Woodbury — and, with notable quickness and body control, frequently splits the defense for layups. “Addi is the kid on our team that makes everything work,” said Jeremy Post, her father and coach. “Everything she does on the court is about making others more successful and helping us win. Very proud of her.”