Vadnais Heights Press

Couple Q&A: Valentine’s Day edition

Press Publications asked local couples a few questions about their love story.

Dennis and Kathy Erno

Q: How long have you been married?

A: “57 years. We met in college. University of Wisconsin River Falls. We were exchanging classes. She was coming from a class, and I was going to a class. And we met on the stairs, and I wanted to meet her because I was attracted to her, so I asked her if she had a sister that went here, which was my opening line. So I asked her out. Our first date was at a Sadie Hawkins dance, which was supposed to be girls-ask-boys. That's how our relationship started.”

Q: What was your first impression of him?

A: “Handsome. A little forward, a little suspicious because I was a little younger.”

Q: What’s the secret to that many years of marriage?

A: “Just to know each other very well and don't give up. Discuss if you have a conflict and try to come up with a compromise or whatever.”

“We have shared values. We’re both, I’d say, moderate progressives, and we have the same moral and religious and social values.”

“And we love each other.”

Joshua Duckett and Kelly Jacobson

Q: How did you meet?

A: “It'll be three years [of dating] on Valentine's Day exactly. We met online and I asked her out. She declined.”

“At first because my friend also didn't have someone, so we wanted to have a girls Valentine's Day.” “So I convinced her to still have that girl's Valentines and come out.”

“And it ended up being a really amazing night. We moved in with each other I want to say like a year later and we've been really, really happy.”

Q: What's the secret to happiness in a relationship?

A: “We have so much fun. I feel like we allow ourselves to be like the young and funny side and I think the really honest side.”

Q: What do you guys do for your Valentine's Day anniversary?

A: “Sometimes we go back to the first place that we met. Nico's Tacos. But we mix it up depending on weather.” “Nothing too crazy.”

Vadnais Heights joins Minnesota Mayors Coalition for Safe and Stable Communities

VADNAIS HEIGHTS — The City Council will join Cities for Safe and Stable Communities, a coalition of Minnesota cities advocating for public safety approaches that respect constitutional rights and support community stability.

The coalition formed in response to the regional impacts of Operation Metro Surge, which local leaders say is straining city resources, disrupting local economies, and eroding trust between residents and government across Minnesota.

“While Vadnais Heights is not at the center of this operation, the consequences reach well beyond city boundaries,” Mayor Mike Krachmer said. “Cities are

At this time, Vadnais Heights joins the coalition alongside:

Bloomington

Brooklyn Center

Brooklyn Park

Columbia Heights

Eden Prairie

Edina

Golden Valley

Hopkins

Maplewood

Minnetonka

Richfield

St. Louis Park

Plymouth

being asked to absorb costs and community impacts that undermine public safety and local stability.”

Coalition members emphasize that effective public safety depends on trust. When residents are afraid to engage with local government or access services, communities become less safe overall.

Through the coalition, Vadnais Heights and other member cities are calling on federal and state leaders to pursue immediate de-escalation, acknowledge the economic and social harm experienced by cities, and consider relief or support for affected communities in 2026. Coalition members will also work together to assess long-term impacts and identify pathways to restore community stability and confidence in public institutions.

Local community groups mobilize to support immigrant neighbors

BY MAYA BETTI NEWS INTERN

Continued federal immigration enforcement activity in Minnesota has left some students and families afraid to leave their homes, so community members have begun stepping up to support immigrant families.

Local volunteers are stepping in wherever help is needed — delivering groceries, helping families cover rent, working with food shelves and collecting school supplies for students learning online.

At local food shelves, demand for services has risen sharply, particularly for home deliveries. Shane Johnson, basic needs program manager at Ralph Reeder Food Shelf, said many families are requesting deliveries because leaving home no longer feels safe.

“Deliveries are the kind of service that families are requesting most, as many families are isolating,” said Johnson. “The community has stepped up in a big way to help us with the increase in deliveries.”

Johnson said donations remain strong, but the

need continues to grow.

“Food and financial donations are also continuing to come in, although with the increased need in our community they are more important than ever before if we want to continue maintaining the quality and reach of our programs,” Johnson said.

While food is essential, he added that diapers and hygiene items are among the most urgent needs and are often overlooked by donors.

Some faith communities have also become places where people mobilize to help.

At First Presbyterian Church in White Bear Lake, involvement with immigrant and refugee families began years before the current federal enforcement surge. In 2019, the church opened its space to a Hispanic congregation serving immigrants from across Latin America.

More recently, the church partnered with Arrive Ministries, a Minnesota-based refugee resettlement agency, forming “good neighbor” teams to support refugee families adjusting to life in the state. That work took on new urgency after ICE launched “Operation Surge” in Minnesota, resulting in the detention of more than 100 people with legal refugee status, according to Pastor Neil Craigan.

In an email to the White Bear Press, Craigan described one case in which the son of a refugee family was detained by ICE while driving home from work, despite having legal documentation.

“After 12 days in detention, he was released without any interview or explanation,” Craigan said. “But he was released in Houston and had to

TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE!

FEBRUARY 11, 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING

WINTERFEST

When: 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15

Where: Church of St. Pius X, 3878 Highland Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Chicken dinner and other food options, family games, medallion hunt, cake walk, derby races, Ticket to Treasure baskets, raffles and sweepstakes. Also Puzzlemania adult and family competition and pizza from 5:15-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. Contact: churchofstpiusx.org

NAMES IN THE NEWS

David Lamwers, a science teacher at Mariner Middle School, was recently on the show, “The Price is Right.” His wife Lindsay Lamwers, who is a media specialist at White Bear Lake Area High School, also appears on the show in the audience several times.

This summer, the Lamwers were visiting Lindsay’s sister and her husband in Santa Ana, California. “They had to work during the day, so we went to shows for fun,” he said.

In addition to “The Price is Right,” the Lamwers also made it into the audience for season 28 of “The Voice.”

Although the show was filmed in August, it just aired on CBS on Jan.

THE POWER OF LAUGHTER

When: 10-11 a.m Thursday, Feb. 12

Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake

Details: Discover easy-to-use tools to incorporate humor into your life each day, and enjoy a chuckle along the way. Free; doors open at 9:30 a.m.

Contact: 651-777-1107

VALENTINE'S PARTY FOR SENIORS

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12

Where: St. Andrew's Community Center, 900 Stillwater Road, Door 8, Mahtomedi

Details: Free games, crafts and socializing, and pay-asyou're-able lunch at noon. Call to RSVP

Contact: 651-426-3261

GALENTINE'S DAY

When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12

Where: Downtown White Bear Lake

Details: Ladies night out event with shopping and dining specials at participating downtown businesses.

Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com

ANNUAL BEAR LEGACY BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER

When: 8-9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13

Where: WBLAHS Student Union

Details: Annual fundraiser for the White Bear Lake

27. Lamwers was called down third at the start of the show. He won the first price-guessing challenge and made it on stage but lost the game on stage. He did, however, get to spin the wheel. After

Area Educational Foundation is includes fee breakfast and a lineup of guest speakers. Registration is required and donations are encouraged. Contact: wblaef.org

ACTIVITY DAY

When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Feb. 14

Where: South Shore Trinity Church, 2480 South Shore Blvd., White Bear Lake

Details: Free community event includes cupcake decorating, quilt display, make and take crafts and activities. Refreshments available. Contact: sstwbl.org

WHITE BEAR LAKE WINTER MARKET

When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14

Where: White Bear Lake Area High School Student Union (west entrance), 5040 Bald Eagle Ave.

Details: Indoor farmers market with local vendors and makers. Food trucks on site until 2 p.m. Contact: forksinthedirt.com

BLACK HISTORY MONTH SHOWCASE

When: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18

Where: WBLAHS Performing Arts Center

Details: Free celebration featuring African Americans and the Arts, presented by the WBLAHS Black Student Union.

spinning the wheel, Lamwers took the opportunity to give a shout-out to his family, friends and other teachers in White Bear Area Schools.

Kelly Brooks Paradise and her children were among the appreciative guests at the recent unveiling of a new Herb Brooks statue.

The new bronze statue of Herb Brooks was recently unveiled at the Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid, New York.

According to the Herb Brooks Foundation, “This statue stands as a lasting tribute to Herb’s legacy and love of the game that continue to inspire generations.”

Brooks was the man who orchestrated

IDesert hockey

n part to celebrate my mother-in-law’s 79th birthday, we found good pricing on airline tickets and lodging and landed in Palm Desert, California for a long weekend. My niece, Meredith, and her family live there, and they invited us to a Coachella Valley Firebirds hockey game. We had just arrived earlier that 80-degree day and it seemed counterintuitive to put on sweatshirts and jackets and watch a hockey game.

Publisher’s

View

Carter Johnson

We were aware that a former Bear plays for the Firebirds, Lleyton Roed, #29. When we arrived at Acrisure Arena it was impressive with an outdoor food court and games for kids. I wanted to at least be able to get a photo of Lleyton for the paper, as I'm sure many of our readers –especially the hockey fans - have been following his career, and have also followed his younger brothers coming up through the White Bear program. Being able to watch a hometown kid play made it a fun night for all of us. Midway through the game we learned where we could meet Lleyton after the game. My niece's kids, Patrick and Olivia, were thrilled at the idea. Patrick, an eighth-grader, plays for the youth team that is affiliated with the Firebirds and practices at the rink attached to the arena. When Lleyton came out of the locker room after the game we were able to get a quick photo, and he spent quite a bit of time talking to Patrick about hockey and even said he would try to get some of the players to visit one of the youth team practices. His advice to Patrick was to just keep having fun playing hockey. It was impressive that he took the time to engage like that with a young fan. He made Patrick's night and I was reminded that our our local families, communities and schools are turning out some exceptional athletes who are also great people on and off the rink,court or field.

We also had an interesting tour of several ranches in the Coachella Valley, led by Meredith's husband, Rob, who is in the agriculture business. The desert is a sandy former seabed that has less than 1% organic matter (as opposed to Iowa's top soil of up to 10%). However, it has a plentiful aquifer under it, as well as a manmade canal from the Colorado River that took 100 years of planning and is considered an engineering marvel. Farmers use drip or micro irrigation methods that limit water waste. Fertilizer is carefully controlled and managed with the irrigation system to drip specifically on the roots of the plants.

The area, just a few miles outside of the populous cities of Palm Springs and Palm Desert, produces some of the world's highest per-acre crop yields. We drove by field after field of dates, lemons, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and peppers. If possible when you are picking out produce, choose what is grown in the USA.

We also got to tour some of the fields that produce sod for use at golf courses and soccer and lacrosse fields. These growers are affiliated with the company that grows the fields for the Super Bowl.

Another highlight of our trip was visiting Joshua Tree National Park.

Although the real estate market in the Coachella Valley feels untouchable, I asked several hospitality workers about tourism and they all said they have been experiencing reduced traffic from the Canadians this year. I guess that explains why we felt we got a good deal.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

ICE activity is driving mental health crisis

NMovers & Shakers

National Alliance on Mental Illness

AMI Minnesota (the National Alliance on Mental Illness) is raising urgent concerns about the escalating mental health crisis unfolding across the state. Ongoing ICE activity is intensifying fear, trauma and instability for people already living with serious and persistent mental illnesses. NAMI Minnesota’s firsthand information, including helpline data and direct outreach in communities across the state, indicates that people in recovery from mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, and other disorders, are experiencing decompensation, worsening symptoms, and acute crises triggered by sustained stress. While all Minnesotans are affected by the current climate of fear and uncertainty, people living with serious mental illnesses and their families are experiencing disproportionate harm. Constant exposure to graphic images, breaking news and enforcement abuses is taking a heavy emotional

toll, especially for people who already struggle with paranoia, anxiety or trauma-related symptoms. For many, this stress is not temporary—it is destabilizing.

NAMI Minnesota is also seeing more people reaching out after suicide attempts or due to suicidal ideation, reflecting an escalation in risk among people already living with mental illnesses. These calls come both from people in crisis and from family members urgently seeking help for loved ones who are expressing thoughts of suicide or have recently attempted self-harm.

Others describe loved ones stopping medication, disengaging from therapy, or isolating themselves due to fear of ICE. This avoidance of care is deeply troubling and raises concerns about mental health outcomes.

NAMI Minnesota is urging Minnesotans to use Mobile Crisis Response Teams when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, decompensation, suicidal ideation or acute psychiatric symptoms. Every Minnesota county and four tribal communities have Mobile Crisis Response Teams that provide direct mental health support, remotely or in-person, wherever it is needed—at home, at school, at work or elsewhere

in the community. These teams are staffed by licensed mental health professionals who help de-escalate crises, assess risk, create safety plans and connect individuals to ongoing care. Mobile Crisis Response Team contact information for every Minnesota county is available at JustCallMN.com.

Mobile Crisis Response Teams are available to everyone, regardless of immigration status. While teams may bill insurance when available, they never deny services based on the ability to pay. All services are confidential, a critical assurance as privacy concerns continue to prevent many people from seeking help.

If you or someone you love is in crisis, help is available. Call your local Mobile Crisis Response Team. NAMI Minnesota strongly encourages parents, caregivers, teachers, employers and community members to save their county’s Mobile Crisis Response Team number—available atJustCallMN.com—in their phone contacts so that support is immediately accessible when it is needed most.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grass roots organization dedicated to building better lives for Americans affected by mental illness.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

Limited to 350 words. Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

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

• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least

four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters. Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.

• All letters are subject to editing. Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of

the week prior to publication. To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Consequences of protesting

Our grandson plays soccer on a traveling team out of Northeast Wisconsin and was to be in the cities this weekend. So many teams declined to come here that the tournament was canceled. The consequences of the radical protestors is spreading to the whole metro area businesses. Nobody wants to travel to war zones for their kids’ sporting events. Can’t blame them.

Dave Zachor White Bear Lake

Congrats on fair's 25 years

Congratulations to all of the hardworking, creative Lincoln Elementary School students who participated in the Carlson Art and Science Fair last week. The special interests of the students were evident, as there was a buzz of excitement as students described their projects to proud parents and grandparents. It is truly amazing, as this special event has taken place for over 25 years! It began when Nan Carlson brought the idea to Principal Jack Dzubnar and then it all began. MaryEllen Miere continued coordinating the fair for many years, followed by several Lincoln teachers. So important for the success of this student-centered event was the dependable amazing cooperation and hard work of PTA leaders and volunteers.

A huge thank you to all for the support and encouragement given to the Lincoln students over the years. Hats off to the hundreds of volunteers that helped to keep this special event going strong for over a remarkable 25 years!

Nan Carlson White Bear Lake

Deserve better

Sixty years ago, I served for two years as a Peace Corps volunteer. Six days following my return, I was drafted into the Army, where I served a tour of duty as an infantry platoon sergeant in Vietnam and Cambodia. Following the Army was over 30 years of service as an administrator in a community college. The experiences could not have been more different. However, all three experiences involved frequent interaction with international students or visitors. In every case, these individuals followed the rules if they were seeking citizenship. If they did seek citizenship, they have provided a valuable gift to our society.

If Donald Trump’s team is indeed focused on illegal immigrants, it is sad his team has not been properly trained. It is also no surprise that massive numbers of people here in Minnesota have shown their disgust at Trump and his ICE staff. Nor is it a surprise that people

around the world have expressed their disapproval of Trump. We deserve better leadership than Trump.

Jack Weiss White Bear Lake

Disappointed in reactions to law enforcement

To all of you who were on the Press opinion page last week calling any branch of law enforcement thugs, racist, untrained, or Nazis — this hurts all law enforcement! Many of you who are dehumanizing them have never been in their position. And to those who have, and are either cheering this on, or at the least not telling the truth, I'm disappointed in you.

They are federal law enforcement officers with families who have been tasked with an extremely challenging task: to deal with a mess that was allowed by failed leadership in our cities, counties and states throughout America.

I respect peaceful protests of their actions. I respect logical criticisms of them, even city law enforcement, National Guard and our military. I will never respect impeding them, blocking them, damage to property or assaulting them. I can never respect inciting people to do that. I can never respect teachers, medical personnel, union members, elected officials, clergy, retired people, the press, entertainment industry, or anyone, fueling and fanning the flames during times of anarchy in this country.

Truly decent people must work together to bring the temperature down as a country.

Timothy McGough White Bear Lake

Look at statistics

This is a response to “No more due process” printed on Jan. 28. It is certainly easy for some to blame Trump for the immigration crisis this country faces. I found an article from the Brookings Institute that outlines some of the recent issues. The statistics in the article are dramatic. Please take 10 minutes and maybe you will see how complex the issue has been. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/the-collapse-of-bipartisan-immigration-reform-a-guide-for-the-perplexed/. But it seems to me that the US courts will not be able to handle this issue much longer. I just hope Minnesota can last until the politicians figure out a path forward as the current path does not seem to be working. But I may be wrong.

Tim Turner White Bear Lake

White Bear Lake Area

Response to letters

I would like to respond to two letters from the Jan. 28 White Bear Press. One was written by an ex- school teacher and the other by an ex-wrestler. ICE agents are in Minnesota because President Biden let millions come into this country for four years. Many of them are very bad people. Did you two vote for Biden? Also, the fraud that's going on in our state. Did you two vote for Walz and Ellison? If Trump was a Democrat, I bet you'd vote for him, too.

Tim Bauman White Bear Lake

Overwhelmed by community support

Thank you! This past Saturday, we let the community know that we would donate 10% of our sales that day to our immigrant owned business neighbors. We were overwhelmed by your support and generosity. Thank you, thank you for your support and your caring about others who are struggling right now. We are so proud to be part of this community and proud to be Minnesotans.

The staff at Lake Country Booksellers White Bear Lake

Cooperate with law enforcement

Many writers have expressed varying degrees of displeasure, frustration, disdain, scorn, contempt, and even hatred for President Trump and ICE agents. The writers explain how the President and ICE agents have broken the law. How about the 130,000 undocumented people living in Minnesota who came here illegally. Didn’t they break the law? Do the letter writers want to let anyone into our country? That is insane. One out of every 50 people you will see today is here illegally. Our state government has allowed the illegal immigrants to receive food, housing, and medical benefits of varying degrees free of charge. No wonder they come here. It must be difficult for ICE agents to do their job with no state and local cooperation. It must be difficult for ICE agents to do their job while protesters obstruct and harass them. It must be stressful for ICE agents as they enter strange places all the while not knowing if danger is around the next corner. I am surprised ICE has not arrested more protesters who break the law while protesting. I commend their restraint. We must remember, ICE is here legally trying to remove immigrants that are here illegally. We would all be better off if state and local officials and citizens cooperated with ICE.

Steve Holupchinski Vadnais Heights

COPS&COURTS

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• A vehicle was stolen in the 3700 block of Highland Avenue Jan. 28.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3100 block of Century Avenue N. Jan. 29, resulting in one man being trespassed.

• A driver was cited for failure to yield following a crash at the intersection of Fourth Street and Miller Avenue Jan. 29.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for burglary in the 4700 block of Wood Avenue Jan. 29.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near Hoffman Road and Cedar Avenue Jan. 30.

• A bank scam was reported in the 1800 block of Second Street Jan. 30.

• Officers assisted in the pursuit of a vehicle wanted in a Maplewood armed robbery Jan. 30. Four occupants in the vehicle were eventually arrested in St. Paul.

• A man was issued a trespass notice following a report of disorderly conduct in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Jan. 31.

Person suffers burns in White Bear Township fire

Around 3:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, the White Bear Lake Fire Department was dispatched to the 5400 block of Peterson Road in White Bear Township for a structure fire.

Upon arrival, crews found a working fire in the basement of the home. Crews were able to contain the fire to the area of origin.

“The home contained a heavy load of content, which made the crew’s ability to fight the fire challenging,” said Fire Chief Greg Peterson.

The White Bear Lake Fire Department was assisted by several auto aid and mutual aid partners including Lake Johanna, Hugo, North St. Paul, Vadnais Heights, Maplewood, Little Canada, Lakeview EMS and M

• A citation was issued to one driver following a three vehicle accident near the intersection of White Bear Avenue and Elm Street Jan. 31.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for domestic assault in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Feb. 1.

• Vandalism was reported in the 4800 block of Sharon Lane Feb. 1.

• A dog bite was reported in the 3500 block of White Bear Avenue Feb. 2.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint Feb. 2 in the 1800 block of Dell Street.

• A Columbia Heights man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road Feb. 2.

• A Minneapolis man was arrested for an active felony warrant following a report of suspicious activity in the 1900 block of County Road E Feb. 2. Officers responded to a fireworks complaint in the 4800 block of Stewart Avenue Feb. 2.

• Officers responded to a domestic dispute in the 1900 block of Eugene Street Feb. 2.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway Feb. 4.

Health Fairview. One occupant of the home suffered burns while attempting to extinguish the fire and was transported to a local hospital. Another person was evaluated on scene but declined transport.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. The Red Cross has been contacted to make arrangements for the family.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:

Dellwood

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies issued citations to a motorist for expired registration and failure to provide proof of insurance on Dellwood Avenue Jan. 11, following a traffic stop for the tardy tabs.

Grant

• After WCSO dispatch received a 911 call Jan. 11 on 75th Street N. and Jamaca Avenue N. and heard only music in the background, they sent deputies out to check the area. Deputies were unable to locate anyone in immediate peril.

• A high school student reported a road rage incident after school Jan. 13 in the 8000 block of 75th Street N., during which another student was driving aggressively and recklessly by tailgating, passing on the shoulder, crossing the centerline and brake-checking the complainant. The complainant retrieved the license plate and description of the vehicle, after which deputies phoned the driver’s mother. When she confirmed that her son would have been driving at that time, deputies advised the school resource officer of the incident.

• Hay bales were reported in the middle of the road on Dellwood Road N. and Manning Avenue N. on Jan. 13.

• Deputies issued a written warning for hands-free

The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township: Vadnais Heights

• Deputies issued a trespass notice Jan. 5 to a 23-year-old man from Inver Grover Heights after he was inside a gas station in the 1000 block of County Road E East arguing with employees and refusing to leave the store.

• A 29-year-old woman from Minneapolis reported Jan. 5 that someone stole her blue Dodge Journey while it was parked outside in the 3500 block of Vadnais Center Drive. The incident is under investigation.

• An animal control officer issued a citation Jan. 7 to a 50-year-old man in the 4300 block of Oakhurst Avenue for repeatedly not having his dog on a leash while it is outside.

• Deputies responded to a crash Jan. 7 between a Volkswagen Passat and a Chevrolet Impala when they collided at an intersection in the 100 block of Primrose Court. Both drivers were evaluated by medics and declined treatment. Both vehicles were towed from the scene due to disabling damage.

• Deputies arrested a 31-year-old woman from Minneapolis Jan. 7 in the 600 block of Belland Avenue on an outstanding and active warrant out of Ramsey County for possession of a controlled substance.

• Deputies cited a 43-year-old man from St. Paul Jan. 7 in the 1400 block of County Road E East for driving after cancellation.

• Deputies arrested a 25-year-old woman from Minneapolis and a 26-year-old woman from Little Canada Jan. 9 for theft after they were caught by loss prevention employees in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store with merchandise they hadn’t paid for.

• Deputies responded Jan. 10 to a report of suspicious activity in the 800 block of County Road E

violation Jan. 14 in the 9000 block of Manning Avenue.

Mahtomedi

A motorist on Stillwater Road and East Avenue at 11:00 a.m. Jan. 11 was cited for hands-free violation. Another motorist was cited at that location at 11:32 a.m. that day for not wearing a seat belt. A third motorist was cited at 11:48 a.m. on Century Avenue and Woodland Drive for expired registration and no proof of insurance. A fourth motorist was cited at 12:04 p.m. for excessive window tint on westbound I-694 at Century Avenue.

• Deputies arrested a motorist for DWI on Century Avenue and Long Lake Road at 12:05 a.m. Jan. 12 after standardized field sobriety testing was performed during the traffic stop.

• The previous renter of a townhouse on Woodland Court on Jan 12 reported having gifts delivered to the front door of her former address, and that the current renter said they didn’t have them. However, a neighbor reported observing the items at the door. When deputies arrived on scene and asked the current renters if they had the items, the current renters stated they did have the items after all and turned them over to deputies.

East and spoke to a 10-year-old from Stacy, who was apparently participating in a TikTok prank. He was warned and released to his parents.

• Deputies issued a trespass notice and theft citation Jan. 10 to a 31-year-old woman from Maplewood after she was caught by loss prevention employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store with unpaid merchandise.

White Bear Township

• Deputies issued a theft citation Jan. 5 to a 28-year-old man who was caught by loss prevention employees at a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive attempting to leave the store without paying for a 24-pack of Coke Zero and a 24-pack of Mountain Dew.

• A 73-year-old woman in the 5000 block of Mead Road reported Jan. 6 that someone online had scammed her out of tens of thousands of dollars by convincing her to send money through apps, gifts cards, credit cards and cash transfers. The incident is under investigation.

• A 29-year-old woman from Blaine reported Jan. 7 that someone struck her Volkswagen Jetta near the intersection of Otter Lake Road and Ash Street, causing damage, and then drove away. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies arrested a 46-year-old man from Forest Lake Jan. 7 for DWI after a report that he backed into another driver at a gas station in the 5900 block of Highway 61.

• A 45-year-old St. Paul woman reported Jan. 8 that someone stole her 2004 Chevrolet Silverado while it was parked in the 5600 block of Otter View Trail. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded Jan. 9 to an illegal burn in the 5200 block of Hugo Road and found a pile of copper wires on fire. No suspects were located. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies on patrol in the Southgate Drive neighborhood at 2:33 a.m. Jan. 13 observed two people arguing outside a residence. One of the parties said they were just talking out their problems. When deputies tried to speak to the other person, they refused to answer. Both people denied anything physical and said they were just talking while having a cigarette.

• While on patrol Jan. 13, deputies came upon a vehicle parked on East Avenue that turned out to have been stolen and left there. Deputies contacted Stillwater Towing and arranged for a tow.

• Deputies dispatched out to a disturbance on Long Lake Road at 10:38 p.m. Jan. 15 recategorized the incident as a possible assault.

• A motorist was arrested for driving after revocation and failure to provide proof of insurance at 2:47 a.m. Jan. 16 following a traffic stop on Stillwater Road at Hilton Trail N. for a broken taillight.

• A driver on Long Lake Road was cited for undisclosed traffic offenses at 2:52 a.m. Jan. 16.

• A male was trespassed from a Wildwood Road property Jan. 17 after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a civil dispute.

Pine Springs

• A southbound motorist on Hilton Trail N. at the ramp to westbound Highway 36 was cited for speeding and other violations on Jan. 14. A motorist is potentially in trouble after he crashed his vehicle into a light pole at 9:11 p.m. Jan. 17 on Highway 36, just east of I-694. While he was being transported to hospital by emergency services, deputies conducted an impound search of his vehicle and discovered drugs.

Willernie

• A Stillwater Road resident reported online harassment on Jan. 13.

WHITE BEAR LAKE

WHITE BEAR LAKE

CONTEST 2026

1. You must submit an original entry form from the White Bear Press or online at www.presspubs.com/site/forms/contest/register_to_win/white_bear_lake_ice_out_contest/ (One entry per person)

2. Guess the date of Ice Out 2026 on White Bear Lake

3. Submit your completed entry, drop off or mail to: 4779 Bloom Ave White Bear Lake MN, 55110

4. Or Submit your entry by email to: marketing@presspubs.com

5. Must be 21 or older to enter.

6. Deadline to enter is: March 26, 2026 at noon. Entries will not be accepted after the official Ice Out is declared.

7. Ice Out is declared when there is no more visible ice on White Bear Lake.

What can you win?

Grand Prize. Prizes are gift cards donated by these Ice Out 2026 sponsors. How do you win?

ENTER TO 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, 2026.

CONSERVATION DISTRICT BRIEF

Conservation district to host public hearing on Docks of White Bear Lake variance request

The White Bear Lake Conservation District (WBLCD) will hold a public hearing at its Feb. 17 meeting to consider Docks of White Bear Lake marina’s request for a variance to extend its dock lengths 350 ft from the ordinary high water level (OHWL) for the 2026 season. The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the White Bear Lake City Hall Council Chambers.

White Bear Lake Rotary ACADEMIC ACHIEVER

Rotary Matters wblrotary1@comcast.net

White Bear Lake ALC

Alondra Barragan has demonstrated exceptional focus and maturity, taking advantage of every opportunity to prepare for her future. While in 10th and 11th grades, Alondra was accepted into the Summer Trades Program, gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry. As a senior, she is enrolled at Century College, earning credits that will prepare her to transfer to Dunwoody College of Technology. By combining a degree in business management with her experience in the trades, Alondra is preparing to take over her family’s business one day. Alondra's academic drive and commitment to her long-term goals are an inspiration to our ALC learning community!

Sponsored by Commercial Plumbing and Heating

Chief of Police Dale Hager announces retirement

White Bear Lake Police Department’s Chief of Police, Dale Hager, will retire from the position on May 8, 2026. Hager has served as the chief of police since August 2023 and the White Bear Lake community for the past 12 years. During his tenure, he also served as the department’s administrative captain. Hager has been an active part of the greater White Bear Lake area and takes pride in serving the community.

“Serving this community and working alongside the men and women of this police department has been one of the great privileges of my career. I am deeply proud of the professionalism, commitment and integrity our staff demonstrates every day, and of the meaningful improvements we have made over the past few years to strengthen public safety and best serve the communities of White Bear

Lake and Gem Lake,” he said.

Throughout his 29-year career in law enforcement, Hager has led with compassion and an open door, educated numerous law enforcement professionals on policing fundamentals, and demonstrated the importance of building strong relationships with civic stakeholders.

“Chief Hager’s number one priority upon being hired as chief of police was to bolster public engagement opportunities and he did just that — doubling the number of touchpoints throughout the community in his first year of leadership alone,” said City Manager Lindy Crawford. “He has also been a strong advocate for (police department) staff, encouraging innovation and new approaches across many areas.”

A formal hiring process to replace Hager is set to begin in the upcoming weeks. It is anticipated that the role will be filled this spring.

Lakeshore Players Theatre announces new director

The board of directors of Lakeshore Players Theatre recently announced the promotion of Megan K. Pence to executive director, effective immediately. Pence has served as the organization's managing director since August 2021, during which time she has been instrumental in transforming Lakeshore Players into a thriving regional performing arts center.

Under Pence's leadership, Lakeshore Players says it has achieved remarkable milestones. Most notably, Pence created and executed comprehensive marketing and development plans that

brought the organization from a six-figure deficit to a balanced budget for the first time in seven years. Pence’s innovative operational processes have expanded Lakeshore's reach beyond traditional community theater, establishing robust concert series, educational programs and community partnerships that enrich the entire region.

"Megan's passion for the performing arts and her exceptional leadership abilities have been transformative for our organization," said Board President Terri Dresen. "Her ability to navigate challenges while maintaining artistic excellence and fiscal responsibility makes her the ideal choice to lead Lakeshore Players into its next exciting chapter." This transition comes as former

Executive Director Darby Lunceford wraps up his work with Lakeshore Players. He will continue to support the organization as a consultant.

Pence brings extensive experience to her new role. She holds a master’s degree in directing from Florida State University and served as director of administration at Commonweal Theatre for seven years.

"I am honored and humbled by this opportunity," Pence said. "Lakeshore Players holds a special place in this community, and I'm excited to continue working with our incredible staff, artists, volunteers and patrons to create meaningful cultural experiences that inspire, challenge and unite us all.”

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Call (651) 515-2973 for more information. good-sam.com

VALENTINE’S DAY Q&A: Couples reflect on their time together

Reyna and Arturo Becerra

Q: How did you meet?

A: “We met in Mexico. We spent eight years dating. We got married in 1989. She was working with my brother when I met her for the first time. It was a retail store, and I would

Diane and John Noll

Q: How did you meet?

A: “We both attended Hamlin University, and I took Physics for Poets as my hardest class, and he took it as his easy class. He offered to be up front in the class to assist the teacher on a project that the teacher was presenting, and I thought he was the best-looking guy I had ever seen, and I was instantly smitten, and I counted what seat he was in. So the next day I got there super early, and I sat in the chair next to his chair, and when he sat down, he was laughing. He knew what I was doing. So that was how we met. Then I asked him out first. It was the first time I’d ever done that because my girlfriend was getting married and I didn't have a date. So he went

come in on vacation for school because it was Christmas time.”

Q: What was your first impression of her?

“Oh, she was beautiful. Yeah, she was nice and beautiful.”

to that. And my mother said, ‘Well, what's he like?’ And I said, I don't know. And she said, ‘Is he tall?’ And I said, ‘I don’t know, we're always sitting!’ He played basketball for Hamlin. So when he came to the door, my mother said, ‘You couldn't tell he was that tall?’ But anyway, we've been married since 1981, and we dated seven years before that.”

Q: Do you do anything special for Valentine's day?

A: “Usually on our anniversary we'll be sitting at McDonald's and go ‘this is our anniversary, we forgot again!’ So no, we usually don't do anything special, but every day is special.”

Thank You VADNAIS HEIGHTS AREA

The Vadnais Heights Lions Club Foundation wishes to extend to the businesses, organizations, and community our heartfelt thanks for your support of our 2025 Toy & Food Drive. Your generous donations of food, toys and money allowed us to brighten the holidays for many in our community. A special Thank You to all our community members who placed toys and food at our collection site at City Hall, as well as those who made cash donations. We continue to be overwhelmed by your generosity.

We also wish to express our gratitude to the many anonymous donors and the area businesses/ organizations listed for their support!

Steve and Cathy Abbly

Q: When did you meet?

A: “We met in Robbinsdale High School in 1976. I can't remember exactly what year we moved in together, and then we’ve lived together until 2014, and then we got married.”

“So we were engaged for over 38 years.”

“March 1, that's our anniversary date. We just had a small little thing at the Anoka County courthouse, and his mom and dad came, and that was that.”

Q: What was your first impression of each other?

A: “I was throwing snowballs at her and her girlfriends.”

“And I thought he was cute.”

Q: What’s the secret to a happy relationship?

“We’re kind of like friends, too. We have the same interest. It has its moments, but it always will, you know.”

Q: When did you meet?

A: “We met in 2023. We got married in 2024.”

Q: How did you meet?

A: “We met through his brother, and I was friends with his sister-in-law in Pittsburgh. Then I moved to Colorado, and they invited me out here to Minnesota for the Minnesota State Fair. We thought it was a setup, but everybody claims it wasn't. We spent the few days at the fair over Labor Day weekend, and we talked a lot. And then his sister-in-law claimed that I was following him around like a puppy, and I said, ‘No.’ So I stopped hanging out with him, and then he

• Advanced Spinal Care & Rehabilitation

• AFSA

• Allina Health Vadnais Heights Clinic

• Aspect LED

• Aster Meadow Apartments

• Bix Produce Company

• Blaze Credit Union

• Boeser Sheet Metal

• Childrens Discovery Academy-LC

• Childrens Discovery Academy-VH

• Christ The Servant Lutheran Church

• City of Vadnais Heights

• Cortec Corporation

• Cottages of Vadnais Heights

• Cummins Sales & Service

• Dey Distributing

• Dynamic Air

• Ekblad Family Trust

• Engelsma Family Foundation

• F & M Bank

• Fairway Collision

• Foss Swim School

• Frandsen Bank & Trust

• Frattalone Companies

• Fresh Thyme Market

• Gable Pines At Vadnais Heights

• General Repair Service

• Gentry Academy

• Gephart Electric

• Great Clips-Vadnais Heights

• HB Fuller

• Heraeus Medevio

proceeded to follow me through the Christmas tree section of the Agriculture Building at the fair. So then, after that weekend, he didn't say anything to me, like we should talk, we should do whatever. He didn't even touch me.

And then, before I left, he gave me a hug and kind of rubbed my back, and he gave me a handshake…”

“With my phone number.”

“With his phone number. Right before I left for the airport.”

“Didn’t want the parents noising around.”

“Then, a week later, I flew back out, and the rest is history.”

• Herold Precision Metals

• Holiday Stationstores-WBT

• IC System, Inc.

• Interplastic Corporation

• Introsect Mental Health

• Jimmy’s Food and Drink

• Kinder Care Learning Center-WBL

• Kowalski’s MarketsShoreview

• Lake Air Products

• Langer Tree Service

• Lapham-Hickey Steel

• Larson Engineering of MN

• Life Time Fitness - White Bear Lake

• Lionsgate Academy

• Lunds & Byerlys - WBL

• M Health Fairview Clinic - VH

• Macaluso’s Roadhouse

• Maple Grove Fire Department

• Maplewood Toyota

• Mavo Systems

• Merrick

• MGC Diagnostics

• MidCountry Bank

• Minnco Credit Union

• MME Group

• MN Recyclery

• MNGI

• Newtrax

• Nexen

• North Oaks Auto Service

• Oak Grove Knowledge Beginnings

• Old Clover Inn

• Olive Me Chiropractic Clinic

• PAI

Mark your calenders for the next Vadnais Heights Lions Club event!

• Panera Bread

• Par Aide Products Co.

• Ramsey County Parks and Recreation

• Reell Precision

• Royal Credit Union

• Schwing America, Inc.

• Smarte Carte

• Structural Wood Corporation

• Summit Orthopedics

• Tecweigh

• TGK Automotive - Hugo

• The Connexus Energy Foundation

• The Oral Surgery Center

• Tjernlund Products

• Tutor Time Child Care / Learning Center

• Twin Cities - Metro CDC

• Ukrainian National Women’s League of America

• Urban Companies

• Urban’s Farm and Greenhouses, LLC

• Vadnais Heights Area Community Foundation

• Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation

• Vadnais Heights Elementary School

• Vadnais Heights Public Works

• Veeco

• White Bear Lake Area

Hockey Association

• White Bear Lincoln

• Woody’s Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC

Waffle Breakfast at the Vadnais Heights Commons on Sunday, April 12th from 8:00am-1:00pm. Interested in joining the Vadnais Heights Lions Club?

If so, please go to our website at e-clubhouse.org/sites/vadnaishts/ and fill out our membership application.

VADNAIS HEIGHTS LIONS CLUB FOUNDATION

800 EAST COUNTY ROAD E • VADNAIS HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA 55127

Our Volunteer Organization Strives to Improve the Quality of Life in Our Community Through Humanitarian Service.

NORTHEAST METRO 916 WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA BOARD NOTES JANUARY

21, 2026

The organizational meeting of the School Board of Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District was held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Bellaire School and the following business was transacted.

Meeting Called to Order

The meeting was called to order by Chair Forsberg at 6:10 p.m.

Roll Call of Attendance

Members present: Knisely-12, Palmer-13, Jones-14, Forsberg-16, Bock621, Nitardy-622, Clark-623, Thompson-624, Rebelein-831, Stout-832, and Thelander-834. Absent: Striker-282 and Dols-833. Also present: Dr. Val Rae Boe, superintendent.

Approval of Agenda

Adopted the agenda as presented, limited discussion to the approved agenda, and accepted the list of items proposed for consent adoption.

Election of Officers

Elected the following officers for 2026:

Chairperson – Andrew Thelander, Stillwater

Vice Chairperson – Laura Palmer, Columbia Heights

Clerk – Marilynn Forsberg, Spring Lake Park

Treasurer – Mannix Clark, Roseville

Board Calendar Dates

• Wednesday, January 28, 2026 – ALC Winter Graduation at 4:00 p.m. At Quora Education Center

• Wednesday, February 4, 2026 - Regular School Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m.

Questions and/or Comments from Citizens Present on Non-Agenda Items

None.

Presentation: Annual Report

An overview of the 2024-25 Annual Report was presented.

Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Boe commented on the following items that were included in her written report: (a) Welcome 916 Board Members (b) Member Highlights; (c) MSBA presentation; and (d) Strategic Actions Program Spotlight: WELS.

Approval of the Consent Agenda

Approved the consent items, accepted as part of the approval of the agenda, consistent with the recommended actions presented by the administration.

Approval of Minutes

Payment of Bills and ACH Payments

Personnel

Acceptance of the FY25 Audit

A report was provided and presented to the School Board by the auditor.

Accepted the FY25 audit from LB Carlson.

Approval of Annual Organizational Resolutions

Approved the organizational resolutions listed a-k for 2026.

a. Designation of Official Newspaper

b. Designation of Depositories

c. Designation of Identified Official with Authority (IOwA)

d. Authorization to Lease, Purchase and Contract for Goods and Services

e. Authorization of Petty Cash Accounts

f. Authorization to Seek Legal Counsel

g. Authorization of Credit Cards

h. Authorization of Electronic Funds Transfers

i. Authorization of Facsimile Signature

j. Authorization of Early Claim Payments

k. Authorization of Micro-Purchase Threshold

Approval of 2026 Board Compensation

The annual survey of member district school board compensation and that of the other three intermediate districts for 2025 was shared with the board.

Approved an increase of $100 to compensation levels for 2026 listed as follows:

Directors

Chairperson

$5,300

$6,000 Vice-Chair

$5,400 Clerk

$5,500

$5,400

Treasurer

Approval of Five-Year Review of JPA

Approved continuing to operate under the current JPA. No statutory changes, legislative actions, or recommendations have necessitated amendments or revisions to the agreement.

Resolution Directing Administration to Make Recommendations for Discontinuance and Reductions

Approved the Resolution Directing Administration to Make Recommendations for Discontinuance and Reductions.

Renewal of Annual Subscription to Laserfiche through OPG-3

Approved renewing the annual subscription to LaserFiche through OPG-3, Inc. effective December 19, 2025 through December 18, 2026 at a total cost of $84,070.32

Board Forum

Chair Thelander shared that Stillwater Schools presented on their journey to phone free schools at the MSBA conference and the session was engaging and well attended.

Member Rebelein shared that Forest Lake presented on their career and tech program in their district and spoke about their Career Pathways program.

Members participated in a discussion regarding ICE activity, how it has been affecting school districts and what districts are doing to support families, staff, and students. Meeting Adjourned

Adjourned the meeting at 7:34 p.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 11, 2026.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA PUBLIC NOTICE

SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES

Ramsey County releases solicitation opportunities on DemandStar as an alternative method of public notice pursuant to Section 331A.03 of the Minnesota Statutes. Individuals may go to the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” section of the “Doing Business with Ramsey County” webpage at ramseycounty.us/ContractWithRamsey to access registration information. If you are new to DemandStar, please follow the DemandStar registration instructions on the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” webpage. Access to all Ramsey County documents is free if the instructions that are posted are followed. You may call 651-266-8072 or email ProcurementTeam@ ramseycounty.us if you need assistance.

Ramsey County is accepting only electronic Request for Bids (RFBs) responses submitted through DemandStar. Public openings are conducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details. To view current solicitations, please go to: https://bit.ly/3W8XWan SOLICITATION: RFB-PUBW30687-KB OPENING DATE: 2/26/2026

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, SEEKS QUALIFIED FIRMS TO SUBMIT A RESPONSE TO PLANT TREES FOR A GRANT PROJECT ON ROAD RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND OTHER COUNTY PROPERTIES, AND ANY FUTURE MISCELLANEOUS COUNTY PROJECT. THERE WILL BE MAINTENANCE TASKS ASSOCIATED WITH TREES PLANTED.

SOLICITATION: RFB-PUBW30973-DC

OPENING DATE: 3/12/2026

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, SEEKS CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE 2026

ADA IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 11, 2026.

VADNAIS LAKE AREA WATER MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION (VLAWMO)

PUBLIC HEARING

The Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) will hold a Public Hearing for the Metro Update of the 10-year Watershed Management Plan (WMP) on February 25, 2026, in the City of Vadnais Heights Council Chambers, 800 County Road E East, Vadnais Heights, MN, at 7:00 pm. Review the draft WMP online at www.vlawmo.org.

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 4 and 11, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-55 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL)

In re the Estate of John William Anderson, a/k/a John W. Anderson, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Court. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following:

Paul S. Anderson

953 Edgewater Avenue Shoreview, MN 55126 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as Personal Representative or may object to the appointment of the Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3607, and the court otherwise orders, the Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Theresa Ames, Court Administrator

Date: January 28, 2026

Attorney for Personal Representative

PAUL DAY FUNKE

Attorney License No.: 395366

Funke Law

3820 Cleveland Avenue North, Suite 500 Saint Paul MN 55112

Telephone: 651-332-8700

E-Mail: Paul@funkelawoffice.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 4 and 11, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-37

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of: Craig A. Dawson, Decedent. NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 from 1:15 p.m until 1:30 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated March 11, 2021 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Robert Nash, whose address is 31536 Quinlan Ave., Center City, Minnesota, 55012, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an ☒ unsupervised administration.

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

Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT:

Theresa Ames, Court Administrator

BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: January 16, 2026

Attorney for Petitioner

COOPERATIVE WILL & TRUST

Elizabeth Sammon (MN# 0506751)

Bryan Zlimen (MN# 0387909)

1700 W Highway 36, Suite 780

Roseville Minnesota 55113

Telephone: 651-331-6500

Telephone: 612-260-9678

elizabeths@coopwt.com

bryanz@cooptwt.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 4 and 11, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-4

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of Frederick John Specht, a/k/a Frederick J. Specht, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an application for informal probate of the abovenamed Decedent’s Last Will dated December 19, 2001 (“Will”) has been filed with the Court, and the application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following:

Andrew Frederick Specht 5414 130th Way North Hugo, MN 55038 as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate.

Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing.

Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Theresa Ames, Court Administrator

Date: January 14, 2026

Attorney for Personal Representative

CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON KRADLE

Attorney License No.: 397997

Kradle Law PLLC

7400 Metro Boulevard, Suite 155

Edina MN 55439

Telephone: 612-254-1737

E-Mail: ckradle@kradlelaw.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 4 and 11, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-82

NOTICE FOR REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR SUMMARY ASSIGNMENT OR DISTRIBUTION AND FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, NON-EXEMPT ESTATE

In re the Estate of:

Judith Ann Halvorson, a/k/a Judy Halvorson, f/k/a Judith Ann Thomas, Decedent.

Notice is given that a petition has been filed requesting that the Estate assets be summarily assigned and distributed without probate administration. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145. The Petition also requests the probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated October 17, 2018 (“Will”).

Any objections to the Petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper, and no objections or claims are filed, the Court may issue a decree distributing or assigning the Estate’s assets. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5. NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Petition will be heard by this Court using remote technology via zoom on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 2:15 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that this Notice shall be published once per week for two consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper in Ramsey County and a copy of this Notice shall be mailed at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons (Minn. Stat. 524.1-401) and persons who have filed a demand for notice pursuant to Minn. Stat. 524.3-204. BY THE COURT: Theresa Ames, Court Administrator BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator Date: January 30, 2026

Attorney for Petitioner: Gregory L. Singleton, MN 0395661

Donna R. Whipple, MN 0506740

Signature Law, PLLC 901 Twelve Oaks Center Drive, #903, Wayzata, MN 55391

Phone: (612) 428-4002 / FAX: (612) 428-4003

Email: gregory@signaturelawpllc.com / donna@signaturelawpllc.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 11 and 18, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-85

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of: Joyce Walker, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 2:45 p.m until 3:00 p.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination ofheirship, and for the appointment of John Rominski, whose address is 360 Wabasha North, Suite 100, Saint Paul, MN 55102, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in a supervised administration.

Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145. Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT: Theresa Ames, District Court Administrator

BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: February 2, 2026

Attorney for Petitioner: Caitlin Mohamed (0402216) Assistant Ramsey County Attorney

360 Wabasha StreetN., Suite 100

St. Paul, MN 55102

Telephone: 651-266-3059

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 11 and 18, 2026.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Neighbors, faith organizations address rising needs

find his own way home.”

Since the event and the increase in ICE activity, fear has rippled through the community. Several weeks ago, the Hispanic church temporarily canceled services as families became afraid to gather. In response, members of First Presbyterian organized grocery deliveries instead.

“It was eight families at first, then 17, then 20,” Craigan wrote.

According to Craigan, the response from the wider community has been overwhelming: volunteers have offered to shop, pack and deliver food, and donors have contributed more than $20,000 to cover legal fees and lost wages for affected families.

For Craigan, the motivation is rooted in faith.

“Jesus tells us that we are to love our neighbor, and we don’t get to choose who that neighbor is. While politicians argue about immigration policy and who is and who is not going to be made welcome, the church has a different calling, to love all people,” he wrote.

Local businesses have also become places for people to support.

In Hugo, Celeste Knipping, owner of the Argyle Moose, has opened her shop as a donation dropoff site after being asked by a friend how people could help.

Within days, donations poured in. Knipping said she collected more than 192 pounds of supplies in just two days, all of which were delivered to the White Bear Area Food Shelf. By the following week, the shelves at her store were full again with donations.

“I had another customer that was saying, ‘I’m not somebody who enjoys protesting, but I want to do something, and this is something that I can do,’” Knipping said. “I feel like when people feel helpless and you give them an avenue, then it’s a natural thing to take care of each other.”

She stressed that the effort is not political. For her, it’s about humanity.

“We just want to make sure that the people in the community have the things that they need right now for their everyday lives,” Knipping said.

A similar effort unfolded in White Bear Lake, where Cobblestone Cafe became a collection site for school supplies for children who have recently

shifted to online learning due to fear and anxiety surrounding ICE activity.

Owner Alicia Buroker said the idea grew out of conversations with a friend who works closely with teachers across multiple districts, including White Bear Lake, Columbia Heights, Minneapolis and St. Paul.

The response was immediate and overwhelming. During a one-day drive on Saturday, Jan. 31, Buroker estimates the cafe collected nearly $5,000 worth of supplies, including a single donation valued at $700.

“My Jeep was overflowing when I delivered everything,” Buroker said. “It was a really emotional day. Everybody here was just almost in tears as they just kept coming in — both regular customers and people I’ve never seen — that just came in and thanking us for doing it.”

Like Knipping, Buroker said the decision was driven by a sense of responsibility rather than politics.

“I’ve always tried to separate my politics from my business,” she said. “But at some point, it feels like it’s either do something or do nothing, and doing nothing is also taking a side.”

2026 LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW: Leaders share priorities for upcoming session

Rep. Patti Anderson

District 33A

651-296-3018

Rep.Patti.Anderson@house. mn.gov

My top objective for the 2026 Legislative Session is to see to it that those who have defrauded Minnesotans of our hard-earned tax dollars are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, and to establish guardrails to ensure that it can never happen again.

As Vice Chair of the Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee in the Minnesota

Rep. Brion

Curran

District 36B 651-296-4342  rep.brion.curran@house. mn.gov

Heading into the 2026 session, I continue to be honored and humbled to serve District 36B. It’s a difficult time in Minnesota. The last several months were grimly marked by the assassination of beloved Speaker Melissa Hortman, more children lost to gun violence in schools, and an ugly federal occupation of our state leading to rights violations and the murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

Sen. Karin Housley

District 33 651-296-4351 sen.karin.housley@mnsenate. gov

As we head into the 2026 legislative session, it’s important to note that it will be a bonding year. That means that while other bills will still be discussed and passed, the number one goal will be to pass a bipartisan bonding package that addresses needs throughout the state. For this area, my top priority will be a bill the prioritizes clean drinking water, roads, bridges, and

Sen. Heather Gustafson

District 36 651-296-1253 sen.hgustafson@mnsenate.gov

Serving in the Minnesota Senate means holding two responsibilities at once: advancing sound public policy and listening closely when people are hurting. This session will demand both.

One of my top priorities remains passage of my independent Office of Inspector General (OIG) bill — a watchdog that will help oversee the use of state tax dollars. I began this work two years ago because Minnesotans deserve strong oversight, real

Sen. Judy Seeberger District 41 651-297-8060 sen.jseeberger@mnsenate.gov

As your senator, I’ve strived to put our community first, find common ground, reach across the aisle, and pass policies that work. Those are the principles guiding me for this upcoming legislative session. These are uncertain times in Minnesota. While we passed a balanced budget in 2025, our federal partners have paused or canceled many of the grants and funds

House, I have been working diligently to expose and stop Minnesota’s fraud epidemic. I am proud that our committee’s efforts have been successful in bringing this problem to light, as our internal investigations have laid the groundwork for federal investigations –and ultimately prosecutions – to take place.  We need to ensure that our tax dollars go to the citizens that need help, not to fraudsters.

One area that I will be paying particular attention to next Session is the potential for fraud to occur in Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave program (PFML). Passed in 2023, the language of this bill is so abstract, that it will be easy for criminals to take advantage of the program. We need clarification in the language and administration of PFML to prevent more theft from taking place. We must also pass additional fraud legislation, including creating the Office of Inspector General, which will have

These tragedies are impossible to ignore. As your representative, your safety, wellbeing and rights continue to be my top priorities.

As a former peace officer, I’m committed to preventing gun violence. For too long, people with ill intent had broad access to high-capacity magazines and assault style combat weapons. It’s past time we recognize the severity of this epidemic and do our part to keep neighbors safe. In these uncertain times, it’s also critical to ensure that rights to personal protection remain intact. I’m keeping a careful watch on several gun-related bills to strike the right balance.

As a 20-year advocate for people with disabilities, I closely monitor fraud allegations, mitigation efforts, and legislation to bring bad actors to justice. Robbing vulnerable people of the resources they depend on to survive is foul. Cheating taxpayers out of funds they rely on is reprehensible. The intricate nature of

local projects.

I’m also focused on fraud – this has become a large issue in our state and it seems like the list of fraudulent programs is ever-increasing. We’ve seen it in education programs meant to feed hungry children, autism service providers, housing for those with disabilities, and more. These instances of fraud have targeted taxpayer-funded programs that provide services meant to help our most vulnerable. It’s critical that we implement oversight measures so we can protect taxpayer dollars, while also preserving access to these programs for those who rely on them.

Finally, we also have a deficit to contend with. As of right now, we will have a small surplus for 20262027 totaling about $2.465 billion. Unfortunately it’s followed by a $5.4 billion deficit the following biennium. Even though it’s not immediate, we should

accountability, and confidence that public funds are spent as intended. At a moment when trust in institutions matters deeply, an independent Inspector General is a practical step toward restoring that trust.

I am also working on legislation to provide property tax relief for homeowners feeling the squeeze of rising costs. At the same time, I am advocating for another round of public safety funding for our cities, counties, and Tribal Nations, so local governments can continue investing in police, fire, and emergency services without shifting the burden onto property taxpayers. I am also working to fund local infrastructure projects that strengthen our communities for the long term.

Alongside this work, it would be wrong not to acknowledge what many Minnesotans are experiencing right now. The increased federal presence in our state has had real consequences. Parents are fearful about their children getting to and from school. Small business owners are shutting their

that we used to count on. We’re not in a budget year, but we must keep an eye on the state’s financial health. I’ll also fight for a bonding bill focused on critical infrastructure. My priority for a bonding bill is securing the funds we need for a new water treatment plant in Hastings. For too long the east metro has borne the brunt of the effects of PFAS contamination. The new, modern plant will ensure safe, clean water for our area, and I will do everything I can to get it done.

Supporting the needs of our first responders is also a top priority. From EMS to law enforcement, the strain being placed on our public safety and public health workforce is unsustainable. We’ve made progress, but there is a lot more to do to make sure our first responders have the resources and support they need. These are just some of the things I’ll be focused on

investigative oversight over all state programs.

Additionally, I serve on the Legislative Audit Commission. We have been able to increase the number of audits done by the non-partisan Legislative Auditor and are very focused on program integrity. This work helps to point out problems in state programs and find solutions to reduce fraud and improve financial controls.

Minnesotans work hard for their money and deserve to know that there are responsible voices advocating on their behalf at the State Capitol. The fraud that has been allowed to fester under the Walz Administration has broken the social contract between citizens and government in Minnesota. People feel that the government has not been working on their behalf. I will continue to work hard to help bring back accountability.

accessing and receiving services requires a careful approach to prevent people in real need from losing support and housing. In addition to my bill banning illegal remuneration or “kickbacks,” I continue to thread the needle to keep the door open for people needing care while closing it on those looking to take advantage.

Finally, the government should work for you, not against you. My work in the Judiciary Committee is focused on safeguarding civil and constitutional rights. Recent federal overreach in Minnesota demands attention to ensure our laws are unmistakable and enforceable. You have rights to peacefully observe, protest, to due process, against unlawful search and arrest, and rights to protect yourself from government violence. We must ensure Minnesota laws clearly protect these rights with the humanity and dignity we all deserve.

deal with it sooner rather than later. We need to take a hard look at government spending, including the fraud dollars that have been lost, and we need to get our budget in order while we still have time and resources to do so. Minnesotans have been asking for this for years, and the time to act is now.

We have to get things back in order and that means re-evaluating what we’re funding, enacting oversight measures, getting fraud under control, making life affordable, and ensuring our most vulnerable have access to the services they desperately need. Increased taxes combined with unchecked fraud and runaway spending have become far too common in Minnesota, and it’s not a reality Minnesota families can afford. It’s going to take an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I’m hopeful we can work together to address this.

doors indefinitely. Neighbors are hesitant to leave their homes. We have seen lives taken and families shattered.

I represent a district with a wide range of views and beliefs. While people may disagree on federal immigration policy, I believe we can agree on this: fear, instability, and violence are not healthy for our communities and needs to stop now.

At the same time, I have been encouraged by the way community members are showing up for one another. I recently spent a morning at a local church, sharing coffee and listening. Many people told me they had never gotten involved before, but felt compelled to step forward. For many, this moment has become a turning point.

As a state senator, my role is to represent everyone, center safety and dignity, and keep doing the work Minnesotans sent me here to do, especially during difficult moments.

this year. I’m looking forward to once again being vice-chair of the Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee, and to be serving on the Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development, as well as the Judiciary and Public Safety Committees.  I also want to take a moment to acknowledge what Minnesotans are feeling right now. We’ve seen shocking political violence strike our state, widespread fraud, theft of public dollars, and now the unprecedented actions of ICE and federal law enforcement that have resulted in the deaths of two Minnesotans.

Our democracy depends on trust, on following the law and the Constitution, and on finding common ground that recognizes our shared humanity. We must recommit to decency, respect and working together to move Minnesota forward.

Ma rine Village School seek in g bus driver For more info co ntac t Transportation@marinevillageschool.org or ch eck out marinevillagesh ool.org/careers/

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MD A HIRING FOREST PEST (SPONGY MOTH ) SURVEYOR S The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is hiring temp intermitte nt Surveyors (Ag Te chnicians) for the 2026 Spongy Moth Trapping Survey season. $20.51/hr + mileage reimbursement View jo b pos t (Job I.D. 91599 ) & apply online thr ough March 2nd: https://mn gov /mmb/c areers. MDA is an equal opportunity employer & pr ovider Question s: 651/201-6692 or natasha.northrop@state.mn.us

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Become part of our small but mighty MVS community — where you’re not just driving a bus, you’re helping move something bigger!

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We’re seeking a reliable and caring driver to transport our responsible, respectful students safely to and from school each day. CDL required, bus certification preferred.

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For more information please contact us : Transportation@marinevillageschool.org or check out marinevillageschool.org/careers/

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CITY OF MAHTOMEDI

SEASONAL FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT

MAINTENANCE

WORKER

MAINTENANCE WORKER

The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The pay range is from $18.00/hr. to $20.00/ hr. depending on qualifications. Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 or at its website at www. mahtomedimn.gov. Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The pay range is from $18.00/hr. to $20.00/ hr. depending on qualifications. Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 or at its website at www. mahtomedimn.gov. Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Seasonal Maintenance Worker

Seasonal Maintenance Worker

MAHTOMEDI VOLUNTEER FOR CITY COMMISSIONS

MAHTOMEDI VOLUNTEER FOR CITY COMMISSIONS

The City of Mahtomedi is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on advisory commissions. Openings for three-year appointments exist on the Planning Commission, Parks Commission, Environmental and Finance Commission. The Commissions serve as advisory bodies making recommendations within their areas of responsibility to the City Council.

The City of Mahtomedi is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on advisory commissions. Openings for three-year appointments exist on the Planning Commission, Parks Commission, Environmental and Finance Commission. The Commissions serve as advisory bodies making recommendations within their areas of responsibility to the City Council.

Are

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If you are interested in serving the community in any of these capacities, please contact City Hall at 651-426-3344 for an application form. Applications are also available on the City’s website at www.mahtomedimn.gov. Applications will be taken through March 2, 2026.

White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc.

White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7 AM to 3:30 PM (subject to change between Memorial Day – Labor Day).

Up to 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7 AM to 3:30 PM (subject to change between Memorial Day – Labor Day).

Salary range from $18 to $21/ hour, depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.

Salary range from $18 to $21/ hour, depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.

Applications are available Monday – Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM, at Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship. org. Application deadline: Open until positions are filled.

Applications are available Monday – Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM, at Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship. org. Application deadline: Open until positions are filled.

If you are interested in serving the community in any of these capacities, please contact City Hall at 651-426-3344 for an application form. Applications are also available on the City’s website at www.mahtomedimn.gov. Applications will be taken through March 2, 2026.

JERENE

ROGERS CITY CLERK

JERENE ROGERS CITY CLERK

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You will find this company weekly under “Plaster/Drywall” in the Call-A-Specialist section of the paper.

White Bear High School hosts joint concert after convention cancellation

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

This Friday, residents can attend a free concert at the White Bear Lake Area High School Performing Arts Center featuring both the high school’s Wind Ensemble and Mariners Choir. Featured during the concert will be the premiere of “The Still Moments,” which White Bear senior Ethan Anderson composed. His classmate Luisa Maruyama will conduct.

The Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA) had originally selected both White Bear’s Wind Ensemble and Mariners Choir to perform for its Midwinter Convention at the Minneapolis Convention Center. White Bear Lake Area High School Director of Choirs Wendy Suoja explained, “You are required to send in a recording of your group and a proposal for your performance. It is a competitive and rigorous process.”

On Jan. 26, however, MMEA canceled all in-person student events in Minneapolis.

“We’ll start at seven o’clock. The band will play first, then we’ll have an intermission to clear the stage and put the choir on. Then, they’ll perform the works that they would have been doing at MMEA.”

One of the pieces in the Wind Ensemble’s program is “The Still Moments.” Ethan Anderson, the piece’s composer, noted, “‘The Still Moments’ may feel somber, angry and joyful all at once, an effort to demonstrate reality. It’s nearly impossible to imagine a space to find perfect stillness, but let music be the guide. Strive to find moments in your life to be calm, to be peaceful, to be still.” He also teased that, during the composition’s effort to embody its title, the piece goes through 40 different time-signature changes.

Though the piece has its conducting challenges, the composer believes that Maruyama is up to the task. “She’s the drum major, so she has conducting experience. She’s going to go into music; she wants to be a future conductor,” he said.

“‘The Still Moments’ may feel somber, angry and joyful all at once, an effort to demonstrate reality.”

Ethan Anderson Composer

“Many students, educators, and families across Minnesota are navigating real fear, uncertainty, and emotional weight right now,” MMEA President Christopher Rochester wrote in an open letter. “We have made the decision to cancel this year’s Midwinter Convention and all associated All-State activities due to ongoing safety concerns affecting our community.”

White Bear Lake Area Schools Director of Communications and Community Relations Marisa Vette explained that, in lieu of the convention performances, the high school’s PAC will host a concert instead. “This performance will highlight our talented students and honor the work they have put into their repertoire,” Vette announced.

“We still have beautiful programs the district has helped us produce,” said Director of Bands Shannon Anderson (no relation to the composer).

Shannon Anderson elaborated, “My thinking was, I can elevate these two music kids at MMEA, in this community of music educators

… It’s not typically an MMEA move to have a student composition or a student conductor.”

Despite the convention’s cancellation, White Bear is planning to record the PAC performance and will send a copy to MMEA. The director of bands is optimistic that MMEA will feature the joint program digitally.

“The kids that are here are tremendous to work with,” she said, “and they’ve been working super hard in preparation.”

Doors open for the White Bear Lake Area High School Wind Ensemble and Mariners Choir joint concert at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at the high school Performing Arts Center, 5040 Division St. Door A. The concert begins at 7 p.m. Admission is first come, first served.

Frank Watson

IF YOU GO

White Bear Lake Area High School Wind Ensemble and Mariners Choir joint concert

When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13

Where: White Bear Lake Area High School Performing Arts Center, 5040 Division St. Door A Details: Free concert by the high school’s Wind Ensemble and Mariners Choir. Featured during the concert will be the premiere of “The Still Moments,” which White Bear senior Ethan Anderson composed. His classmate Luisa Maruyama will conduct.

Carrier of the Month Zach Hosfield

January 2026

Congratulations to Zach! Carrier for Press Publications for about a year. Thank you for all your hard work!

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Liberty Classical boys basketball dominates with 20–2 record

The Liberty Classical Academy boys basketball team has posted an impressive 20-2 record this season.

The team is led by seniors Sam Rupnow and Ethan Richter, who average 29 and 22 points per game, respectively.

Rupnow recently surpassed the 2,000 point total for his career, while Richter is closing in on that number as well. Juniors Cruz Triana and Jimmy Youtsey are also averaging double digits at 15 and 12, respectively.

The Lions, runner-up in Section 4A last season, are averaging more than 90 points per game while allowing about 55. They have also posted wins over Breck, HIll-Murray and Jordan.

"I'm incredibly proud of this

group of young men," said Coach John Towle, adding that he is impressed by the squad's commitment, unselfishness and daily work ethic.

"They have fully bought into playing for each other and defending at a high level," Towle said. "What makes this season truly special isn't just the wins, but the character, growth and unity they've shown throughout the journey."

Liberty is a classical, multidenominational Christian PreK-12th grade academy with a total of more than 450 students combined from campuses in White Bear Lake (3rd-12th) and Hugo (preK-2nd).

Contributed

Piper reaches 1,000, helps Bears win thriller

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Colin Piper scored his 1,000th point among his 28 for the night in leading White Bear Lake in a 74-73 overtime win over Andover at home Thursday evening.

Will McQuay added 17 points, including two free shots to win it for the Bears (5-13). Nick Cardenas sniped for 16 points, including four 3-pointers.  Andover (13-6) was led by Joseph Mapson with 27 points and Caden Roessler with 17. Piper, a 6-foot-8 senior, reached 1,000 with his 16th point on a free throw. “Definitely one of my goals for the season,” said Piper about the milestone, adding that it was especially

CONTRIBUTED

Colin Piper launches a jumpshot for two of his 28 points in a win over Andover.

sweet coming in a thrilling win at home.

In the overtime, the Florida Tech recruit sank a threepointer and one free throw and made a perfect over- theshoulder pass to McQuay for a layup. McQuay swished two free throws with 10 seconds left to give the Bears the lead 74-73 and Piper rebounded a missed shot by Andover in the final second.

The Bears aren’t winning as much Piper would like but basketball is still fulfilling, he said. “The won-lost record doesn’t mean as much as some other things. Playing one last season with all my friends has been really fun. That’s what I will remember.”

The Bears lost a close game Friday to Park (9-11) 58-56.

Prose hits 1,000 points

Grace Prose, Mahtomedi senior guard, poured in career-high 37 points — shooting 7-for-14 on threepointers — and passed the 1,000-point marker during a 65-61 loss to Tartan. The next night, Prose tallied 25 points and five steals as Mahtomedi defeated South St. Paul (SSP) 67-29. The thirdyear starter is averaging 20.2 points per game after scoring 12 ppg last year. Against SSP, Berkley Blaisdell logged eight steals, 13 points and four assists. Lucy Peer had eight points, five steals and four rebounds and Delaney Dumermuth seven points and five steals.  Mahtomedi is 7-15 overall and 6-5 in the Metro East Conference.

Bruce Strand

SWIMMING & DIVING

White Bear Lake lost to Irondale 99-81. Event winners for the Bears were Benedict Hoefer in the 200 free (1:57.42) and 100 freestyle (51.75) and Henry Bowlin in diving (195.30). Placing second were Ridley Dittler in the medley (2:19.33), Finnian McVeigh in butterfly (59.35) and breaststroke (1:08.86) and Dylan Allshouse in backstroke (1:03.86).

BOYS HOCKEY

White Bear Lake lost to conference leader Cretin-Derham Hall (CDH) 6-2 and to No. 3 ranked St. Thomas

BOYS NORDIC SKIING

Mahtomedi senior Ethan Albrecht was Section 4 runner-up to qualify for state Thursday at Battle Creek and the Zephyrs placed sixth of 11 teams. Albrecht was the only non-Stillwater entrant in the top five. Mahtomedi’s next two boys were Mason Mahmood, 18th, and Abraham Jansen, 37th. Stillwater, led by gold medalist George Nelson, and Mounds View advanced to state. A week earlier, Mahtomedi placed second behind Hastings among four teams in the Metro East Conference and Albrecht was individual champion. Also making all-conference were senior William MacChesney in third place and Mahmood, sophomore, in sixth place. See presspubs.com for state meet results.

GIRLS NORDIC SKIING

Mahtomedi placed sixth of 11 teams Section 4 at Battle Creek and had no state qualifiers. Giada Garrity placed 10th, missing state by two

Academy 4-1. The Bears are 9-11-3 overall and 7-5-2 in the Suburban East Conference (SEC).

GIRLS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake stymied Park 42-35. Gabriella Hartzel sank 12 points, Maddy Thompson 11 and Chloe Theissen 10. The Bears are 8-14 overall and 5-9 in the SEC. Park is 7-15 and 2-13.

GYMNASTICS

White Bear Lake won a conference meet over Roseville Area 133.5 to 117.575. Grace Mueller won all-around (33.7), vault (9.50), uneven

places. Rachel Brings was 20th, Claire Lane 33rd, and Julia Clayton 34th. Stillwater, led by gold medalist Greta Widenbrandt, and Forest Lake advanced to state. A week earlier, Mahtomedi placed first of four teams in the Metro East Conference at Highland Park. Making all-conference were Garrity, a freshman, in second place and junior Rachel Brings in fourth place, while freshman Claire Lane was 10th and senior Isabel Vipond 11th for honorable mentions.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Undefeated Tartan repelled Mahtomedi 78-56 at Tartan Wednesday. The Zephyrs then defeated South St. Paul (SSP) 66-56 at home Friday. In the Metro East, Tartan is 11-0, Mahtomedi 7-3, South St. Paul 7-4 and St. Thomas Academy 7-4. Against Tartan, Willie Roelofs tallied 28 points and Mark Graff 20. The No. 2 ranked Titans (17-0) had  Kevin Wilson Jr. with 19 points, Tyrel Pride 18, Duke King 15 and Emmanuel

Four Bear girl wrestlers reach state

White Bear Lake will have four wrestlers in the girls state tournament as Isabelle Kane and Jinet Demanou placed first and Calli Lactorin and Merrick Jensen placed second in Section 4.

Wrestlers from 22 schools competed in the two-day meet at South St Paul Saturday.

Kane won her 130-pound finals match 15-0 (technical fall) over Amelia Converse of St. Croix Lutheran. Demanou pinned Alyssa Diedrich of Roseville

bars (8.30) and floor exercise (9.20). Mo Conroy won balance beam (8.30) and was second on bars (8.05) and floor (8.80). Maddie Erickson was second all-around (31.775), second on vault (8.55) and fourth on beam (8.30). Mira McQuay was second on beam (8.25) and third on floor (8.80). Harlie Peloquin was third on beam (8.05). Aryanna Hawes was fourth on bars (7.85).

BOYS WRESTLING

White Bear Lake finished the regular season with a 5-9 dual meet record, 3-6 in the

Oyesanmi 13. Against SSP, Roelofs logged 23 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks, Graff 14 points, three assists and three steals and Joey Wright 10 points.

BOYS HOCKEY

Mahtomedi posted conference wins of 9-0 over Simley and 3-2 over Hastings, lifting their record to 13-9-2 overall and 5-2-2 in the Metro East. Against Simley, seven Zephyrs scored: Vinny Redpath (two), Will Seevers (two), Ryker Dunbar, Trevor Rogosheske, Easton DeZelar, Zach Zins and Brock Gutterman. Against Hastings, they took a 3-0 first-period lead on goals by Brayden Fuerst (power play), Redpath and Kaden Gagnelius and held on. Jackson Chesak made 18 saves.

BOYS WRESTLING

Mahtomedi finished the regular season with an 8-15 record, 2-5 in the Metro East. Next is Section 4AA team Saturday, Feb. 14, at St. Paul Harding, followed by the section

Area in 1:51 in the finals at 170 pounds. Lactorin was runner-up at 124 pounds while Jensen was runner-up at 190 pounds. The top two at each weight advance to the state meet Feb. 27-28 at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul.

A total of seven Bears earned podium finishes. Kinley Jensen was third at 235 pounds, Amber Pax fourth at 100 pounds and Tessa Moen sixth at 136 pounds.

Bruce Strand

Suburban East Conference. Next is the Section 4AAA team tournament Friday at Stillwater.

NORDIC SKIING

White Bear Lake’s season ended at the Section 4 meet with no state qualifiers at Battle Creek Park Reserve. Brigid McVeigh had the highest finish, 13th place. Irene Bakke was 28th and Lydia Moore 38th. Joe Rogers led the Bear boys in 22nd place. James Bowen was 23rd and Ben Rogers 33rd.

Bruce Strand

individual Friday, Feb. 20, at Cretin-Derham Hall.

GIRLS WRESTLING

Elizabeth Carlson, Mahtomedi freshman, earned a state berth by winning the 100-pound title in Section 4 on Friday and Saturday at South St. Paul. Carlson pinned a St. Paul Washington Tech opponent in 1:32 in the finals. Placing sixth were freshmen Kyra Kamrath at 112 pounds and Mya

Three Bears earn Alpine state trip

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake seniors Angus Levins, Cooper Feirn and Josie Guidinger have each earned second trip to the state meet in Alpine Skiing. They qualified at Section 7 on Feb. 3 at Giants Ridge in Biwabik and will return for state on Tuesday.

Levins placed 10th in the first run and moved up to fourth place in the second run. Feirn was sixth on the first run and finished seventh after the second run.

Hahn at 124 pounds. Twenty-two schools competed. A week earlier, Mahtomedi hosted a Metro East tournament in which Kamrath placed third, freshman Maddie Smith fourth at 118 pounds and junior Amelia Englund third at 155 pounds. The same day, Carlson placed second in the Minnesota 9th Grade Tournament and Hahn placed sixth.

Both did a good job skiing tactically, Coach Fred Fiern said, especially on the steep pitch of the second run, after which they “let it rip to the finish on the flats” for high placements in a strong section field. Guidinger placed 14th in the morning, handling the steep section capably while taking some risks, and stayed in control on the second run for a 15th place finish, good for a state berth. Feirn and Guidinger went to state last year and Levins qualified the year before.

GIRLS HOCKEY Roseville/Mahtomedi won its Section 5AA opener 3-0 over Mounds View/ Irondale. Aleeya Osoria made 30 saves in the shutout. Scoring were Megan Packer, Sophia Boberg and Lauren Eggleston. The Marauders (11-12-3) faced top-seeded Centennial/Spring Lake Park in the semifinals Tuesday. Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Ethan Albrecht

Mahtomedi Nordic Skiing

February 11, 2026

Ethan Albrecht, Mahtomedi senior Nordic skier, placed second in Section 4 last week at Battle Creek Regional Park to earn a berth in the state meet. His times were 14:56.4 in classic race and 13:48 in skate for a total of 28:44.4. A week earlier, Albrecht was Metro East Conference champion, with times of 13:11.5 and 12:29.0 for a 25:41 total at Hyland Park Reserve. He has two conference titles and one runner-up finish in his career.

Bette Dixon

Was born on January 21, 1934, in South St. Paul, Minnesota, and passed peacefully at the age of 91 on December 29, 2025. Bette is remembered with both joy for a life well lived and sorrow in her passing. She grew up in South St. Paul, Minnesota, and later moved to White Bear Lake, Minnesota, where she raised her three children: Scott (Kim), Steve (Sue), and David (Julie).

The way Bette grew up greatly influenced how she lived her later years. This was evident in two of her favorite things: family and shopping. Loving both dearly, she delighted in dressing her family splendidly. Bette’s sister, Shirley, was especially affected by this, having the least amount of closet space when the two lived together later in life! The sisters were perfect roommates, sharing an unbreakable, sister bond filled with love. Bette is fondly remembered for her faith in Jesus Christ, which was demonstrated in her life as a loving and caring wife, mother, sister, and friend. We live in the hope that Bette is with Jesus now, knowing the blessing of being met by His grace.

Bette is survived by her three sons, Steve, Scott, and David, as well as her siblings, Shirley, Dorothy, and Robert. She was a grandmother to eight grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren.

Bette was preceded in death by husband Gerald, her sister, Joyce; her brothers, Warren, Glenn, and Bill; and her parents, Sander and Mae.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 13, 2026, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and the service at 11:00 a.m. The Celebration of Life will take place at Eagle Brook Church, White Bear Lake, located at 2401 Buffalo St., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

Gales Svendsen

Age 85 of Roseville. Passed away peacefully at home on February 5, 2026. Survived by husband, Neil Svendsen; daughters, Lee (Tim) McGrath & Kim (Jill Johnson) Minkel. Memorial Service: 5:30pm on Thurs., Feb. 12, 2026, Visitation: 3:30pm at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake.

Michele Thompson

Embraced her Lord and Savior on January 27. Preceded by son, Micah; parents, Harold and Doryce LaCosse; and brother, Robert LaCosse. Survived by husband, Tommy; daughter, Ashlee Sobieski; and grandchildren Eleanor, Maria, Anna, and Gus Sobieski. Service 2/14/26 11:30 a.m. at Mueller Memorial WBL with 10:00 a.m. visitation.

Paula P. Dellis (nee Tessier)

Age 75 of Maplewood, formerly of White Bear Lake. Passed away unexpectedly on February 1, 2026. Born on May 17, 1950. Her family will hold a service for her in the spring. Arrangements MuellerMemorial.com  651-429-4944

Shirley Annette Donovan

Passed away peacefully on February 3rd, surrounded by loved ones. A Memorial Service will be held at 1p.m., Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Honsa Family Funeral Home, 2460 East County Road E, White Bear Lake, with a Visitation at 12 p.m. Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral Home, 651-429-6172.