Vadnais Heights Press

Pre-Easter bunny sighting

Hundreds of children recently scrambled across the athletic fields at Podvin Park during two Easter Egg hunting sessions, sponsored by the White Bear Lake Police Department and managed by CERT volunteers. The Easter Bunny made an appearance and three gold, prize winning eggs were included among the hundreds of eggs distributed across the fields for each egg hunting session. Easter will be celebrated this year on Sunday, April 5.

County continues to plan for regional trail expansion

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

A major regional trail project continues to move forward. Once a one-mile extension is complete, there will be continuity from Ramsey County up to Chisago County.

The Hardwood Creek Regional Trail is a 10-mile multiuse trail that stretches through Forest Lake and Hugo. From the north to south, the existing trail follows the Burlington Northern Railroad corridor, adjacent to Highway 61, from the Chisago County border in the north to 140th Street in Hugo in Washington County, where it stops. There is currently a one-mile gap in the trail where the rail line remains active.

“By extending the trail south from 130th Street N to 120th Street N, the gap will be addressed, and the trail will have continuity from Ramsey County up to Chisago County,” explained Erin Blaylock, Washington County design engineer/business liaison. A master plan was approved for the trail nearly a decade ago (2013), and the city of Hugo undertook a preliminary feasibility study for the corridor in 2019. The county also performed a feasibility study for the project in 2022. At the time, the council approved a letter of support for the final extension of

SEE REGIONAL TRAIL, PAGE 9

Minnesota cities call on Legislature to deliver 2026 small-business relief

Cities for Safe and Stable Communities is urging lawmakers to pass small-business relief bills this session to stabilize local economies in the aftermath of Operation Metro Surge.

The Senate Jobs committee heard testimony on the topic, specifically SF 4527 and SF 4535.

Preliminary coalition data shows an estimated 150,000 immigrant and foreign-born community members were directly affected by the surge, which directly impacted hundreds of local businesses. Businesses in the coalition cities reported revenue losses of 50% to 100% during the operation.

This comes on the heels of Gov. Tim Walz’s budget proposal, which included $33 million in emergency

rental assistance and $10 million in partially forgivable small business loans for those who experienced substantial revenue losses during the surge. The coalition says the disruption has hit small businesses especially hard.

“The pending actions by the state government are important for communities and businesses to begin the process of rebuilding,”

Mike Krachmer Mayor, Vadnais Heights

Accounts from local business owners describe conditions as "worse than COVID." Restaurants, markets and salons saw foot traffic

plunge. One business closed for a month and a half due to staffing shortages, resulting in close to $4,000 in food losses alone. Other businesses are falling behind on rent in amounts ranging from $15,000 to $45,000. Business owners across the

coalition described maxing out credit cards to stay afloat.

While the coalition continues to assess the full scope of economic

damage and is supporting additional policy changes to prevent similar disruptions in the future, Vadnais Heights Mayor Mike Krachmer voiced his concern.

“The pending actions by the state government are important for communities and businesses to begin the process of rebuilding, (and) the day-to-day needs of many families continue to go unmet in the wake of Operation Metro Surge,” said Krachmer. He encouraged residents to seek out more readily available resources that can help bridge the gap in the meantime.

A Vadnais Heights’ immigration resources webpage is available at: https://www.cityvadnaisheights. com/1072/Immigration-Resources.

Bunny Search

In this issue of the White Bear Press/ Vadnais Heights Press

• Find all the bunnies that look like the one on the left hidden in this newspaper. Some of them may be black and white.

• Enter the number of bunnies you find on our contest form online for a chance to win St. Paul Saints tickets.

• The example bunny here does not count toward the total.

• All correct answers will be put into a drawing and one winner will be selected.

Scan the QR code or nter the contest online at: presspubs.com/site/forms/contest/easter_ eggs_wbvh/easter_egg_huntwbvh/

NAMES IN THE NEWS

Tenth grader Brooklyn Brown was named DECA State Career Development Conference (SCDC) Champion in the entry level interview event. She is the first DECA State Champion in White Bear Lake Area High School history. Brown advanced to the final round and earned a perfect score of 100/100. She also qualified for the state competition in StartUp Business Plan, where she partnered with senior Aviana Rider

Eighty-four-year-old Navy veteran Kenny Jary of Willernie, better known as “Patriotic Kenny,” recently announced to his millions of followers on social media that he has been diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer.

“I would like to tell you that I’ve got Stage 4 lung cancer. So that's the way it

goes. I mean, we can't live forever. But I love you all, fans,” he said in the video. Jary has been featured in the Press many times before, notably in the article, “Patriotic Kenny: You can’t miss the scooter,” Sept. 1, 2021, White Bear Press.

William Siedow, a sophomore at Mahtomedi High School, will represent Team Denmark at the Cadet and Junior Fencing World Championships in Rio de Janeiro from April 1-9. Siedow, who is a member of the Twin Cities Fencing Club in Saint Paul, will compete in the junior individual, junior team and cadet individual events, making his world championship debut.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH: MITCHELL HALL AND THE TENNESSEE TRIO

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 4

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Tribute to the legacy of Johnny Cash. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org

CALENDAR BRIEF

Gold Star Spouse Day honors families of

SENIOR HOUSING DAY

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, April 3

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave. Details: Explore local housing options, learn the essentials of aging in place, find resources to help with the transition. Contact: 651-653-3124 or ids624.org

GUIDED FILLEBROWN HOUSE TOUR

When: 11 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 4

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Visit the quaint 1879 lakeside cottage and learn about life in the resort era. Ticket information online. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

NEURODIVERSE AUTHOR READING AND BOOK RELEASE

When: 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 8

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave. Details: Celebrate the release of stories written by PAI participants by hearing them told live by the authors. Contact: whitebeararts.org

FUTURES IN BLOOM

When: 7:15-8:45 a.m. Thursday, April 9

Where: Century College, East Campus Lincoln Mall Details: Breakfast fundraiser to support Century College students seeking to become part of Minnesota's health care workforce. RSVP. Contact: 651-444-2314 or century.edu/giving/foundationevents

SPRING BINGO AND BRUNCH

When: 10-11 a.m. Thursday, April 9

Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County

April 5 marks Gold Star Spouse Day, a time to recognize the husbands and wives of U.S. military service members who died while serving their country. A Gold Star spouse is the surviving partner of a fallen service member. The day serves as both a remembrance of those who died in service and an acknowledgment of the families they left behind. The impact of military service

extends beyond the battlefield, affecting spouses and families who must navigate grief while carrying on their loved one’s legacy. Gold Star Spouse Day offers the nation an opportunity to honor their sacrifice and recognize the resilience of those who bear the loss.

Road E, White Bear Lake

Details: Community event with Bingo, trivia and brunch. RSVP by April 6 by phone or email. Contact: 651-777-1107 or office@ststephenwbl.org

ZEPHYR GALA

When: 509 p.m. Saturday, April 10

Where: JX Event Venue, 123 2nd St., Stillwater

Details: Signature fundraising event for Mahtomedi Area Education Foundation supporting Mahtomedi students and teachers. Ticket information online. Contact: onecau.se/zephyrgala26

Generational realities

I've found out through experience that there are almost always exceptions, so I try not to make sweeping generalizations. However, I did have a bit of an “aha moment” after randomly coming across information about specific circumstances that help define the character of different generations. I recently became aware of a subset of the Baby Boomer generation that doesn't really fit with the experiences of the older Baby Boomers, or the members of Generation X that followed. The discovery of this generational subset, called Generation Jones, was validating because, personally, I've never really identified with the mainstream experiences of the Baby Boomers, and have instead felt a closer kinship to Generation X. Generation Jones is approximately defined as people born from 1954 to 1965. This generation was raised with a sense of optimism about their future but faced challenging economic conditions and a tight job market when they came of age.

Dealing with unfulfilled expectations, this generation had to learn to adapt as they witnessed and participated in the revolutionary transition from analog to digital — becoming early adopters of the technology younger generations take for granted. I take particular interest in this aspect of generational analysis because I remember the transition from negatives and chemical processing to digital photography and also the transition from physical paste up and rudimentary typesetting devices to the powerful computers we use in publishing today. Members of this generational subset had to learn computers at a fundamental level, so they are less likely to be intimidated by technology and also more likely to question if it is actually making their lives better.

The Greatest Generation

Growing up in the shadow of the great depression and coming of age during the WWII era, my father William was a member of what is often referred to as the Greatest Generation. He passed away late last December, one month shy of his 99th birthday. He graduated from DeLaSalle High School a year early in 1944 and at the age of 17, with his parent’s permission, enlisted into the U.S. Army serving in the occupation forces of Japan until being honorably discharged in 1947. On returning home he would take advantage of the newly created GI Bill and become the first in his family to attend college - graduating from St. Thomas College with a BS degree and the University of Minnesota with a Doctorate in Dentistry. He practiced dentistry for more than 50 years, finishing his career with part time work — helping out local doctors in Duluth — into his 80's. As a role model, I especially appreciated his undying love and respect for my mother and also his dedication to lifelong learning. When I had lunch with him late last year, I didn't think it would also be the last time I'd see him alive. Based on his tenacity and baseline health vitals, I sincerely thought that he had a good chance of reaching 100. Looking back, I'm grateful to have taken the opportunity to visit him on his 97th birthday, the last he would celebrate at home before moving to assisted living. In retrospect, I consider it an honor to have been able to prepare a birthday breakfast for him in the kitchen of the Duluth home he shared with my late mother. A special bonus was the morning light and view of Lake Superior that is always a tangible and beautiful reminder of my mother's spirit. Following our father's funeral in January, my brother arranged to have a military honor guard present at the cemetery. After a three-volley gun salute was fired, a bald eagle appeared overhead and circled before flying away. After the service I commented on the coincidence and timing of the eagle's appearance. My sister offered a more profound view of the flyover, saying that she felt that the eagle was our father letting us know that he was free.

Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications.

Creating the conditions to build the future

AMovers & Shakers

Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak

s our list of finished Building Our Future construction projects is coming to fruition – with Early Childhood and Transition Education spaces being finalized at Sunrise in preparation for housing the programs in the fall – it’s a meaningful time to pause and reflect. This transformation has been a massive undertaking, beginning with the vision of former School Board members and some of our current members. Over the course of this journey – from developing the plan to supporting the informational campaign and guiding the initial implementation – leaders including Janet Newberg, George Kimball, Kim Chapman, Ellen Fahey, Chris Hiniker, Lori Swanson, Cathy Storey, Marge Newmaster, Scott Wilson, Don Mullin and Rolf Parsons as well as current members Scott Arcand, Deb Beloyed, Kathleen Daniels, Angela Thompson, Jessica Ellison and Chris Streiff Oji have played an essential role. I remember sitting in my office shortly after joining the district when two of our coaching and teaching legends, Don Glover and Jim Galvin, stopped by to ask when we were going to begin

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facilities work that was so clearly needed. They were familiar with my work in a previous district and were energized by what might be possible here. As I recall, Mr. Galvin was ready to start knocking on doors that very day.

The shared vision – and the tireless efforts of nearly 100 community and staff members who served on our facilities planning committee – has been truly inspiring. To everyone who participated in those early meetings, reviewed blueprints, and shared their hopes for our schools: thank you. You helped lay the foundation for everything we see today.

The centerpiece of this entire vision is, of course, our unified White Bear Lake Area High School. For the first time in decades, our students in grades 9 through 12 are learning together under one roof. This is about more than a 375,000-squarefoot addition or a stunning new student union commons area inspired by our community’s sailing heritage – it’s about the student experience. By bringing our students together, we’ve eliminated transitions that once fractured the high school journey, allowing for deeper relationships, expanded opportunities, and a stronger sense of “Bear pride” that begins on day one of freshman year.

Beyond the high school, this work has revitalized fifteen campuses across the district. We have done so strategically –utilizing multiple revenue sources and maximizing every dollar of

the 2019 bond – to ensure that the benefits reach every corner of our district, from our earliest learners to our senior citizens.

We know that this work requires a deep level of public trust. That is why we were especially heartened by the results of our 2024 community survey. With 86% of our residents and 91% of our parents rating the quality of our district favorably, these results are a testament to the partnership we share. The survey also affirmed a high level of confidence in our efforts to steward tax dollars responsibly. We take that fiscal responsibility seriously, and we believe these modernized, sustainable facilities are clear evidence of that commitment.

This project has been truly transformational. We haven't just renovated buildings; we have reimagined what learning looks like in White Bear. We have created spaces that foster student agency, support career pathways, and ensure that every child who walks through our doors feels safe, welcomed, and inspired.

To our families, our staff, and the entire White Bear Lake Area community: thank you for your support, your patience during construction, and your unwavering belief in our students. Together, we have built a future that will serve this community for generations to come.

Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak Superintendent, White Bear Lake Area Schools

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Easter worship: I have seen the Lord!

Pastor’s Ponderings

It was a simple message, one that echoed through the room where the followers of Jesus had gathered to share their grief, to face their fears, and to decide their future. They had come to Jerusalem with such high hopes from their provincial homelands of Galilee. Just one week earlier, they had arrived with Jesus amid the cheers of large crowds. They had seen with their own eyes the throngs of people greeting them and welcoming them to the city. With eagerness and joy, they had anticipated celebrating the annual Passover in the Holy City.

Mark Kuether

But everything had gone horribly wrong. One of their closest friends had betrayed them to the authorities. Just three days earlier, in the darkness and chaos of Gethsemane, they had watched fearfully, helplessly, as Jesus was taken into custody. Worse,

ICE impact a reality

Letter writer Randall Johnson (March 18) states that there is no evidence of federal ICE and Border Control activity impacting residents of White Bear Lake. He bases this solely on the lack of police reporting. This is a very weak line of reasoning. First, we know that there has been significant and probably illegal actions by ICE and Border Control in other Twin Cities suburban communities — most notably in Columbia Heights, with the detainment of a young child outside his school. Secondly, it is absurd to reason that people who are in vulnerable situations who have federal agents at their door will immediately call the local police. I know of one family that simply stopped going to work for many weeks because of fear of harassment by federal agents. Further, once it is established that federal agents are carrying out abusive and even violent interactions with residents suspected of not having legal status, the very reasonable fear that it will happen to you and your family is terrifying.

I am very pleased with Council Member Ellen Gurrola’s leadership in initiating the discussion at the Feb. 10 City Council work session about the reality of very negative impacts for individuals and families

they fled in fear of their own lives, escaping capture by hiding among the olive trees. Then, from the shadows, they had witnessed the mock trial, torture, and crucifixion of the one they had hoped would lead them to victory, to freedom from the difficult and dangerous days through which they were living, from the grip of the Roman Empire.

Having seen far too much, they had gathered to plan their escape from the city. Suddenly Mary’s voice rang out loudly, clearly, shattering their muted conversations. Her outlandish proclamation was, I have seen the Lord!

How could she have seen him? They had all seen him die. They had all seen where he was buried. They had all seen the stone that sealed his tomb. There was nothing more to see.

Nevertheless, she persisted. She breathlessly repeated her claim to having seen Jesus – not alive as before but rather resurrected from the dead.

Her claim, like her experience, has been echoed through the ages by women and men around the globe

in our city by ICE and Border Control activity. This brought about a meaningful discussion by the council. This was followed by further discussion at the Feb. 24 council meeting and the adoption of an action to join the Cities for Safe and Stable Communities coalition as an ally. I very much appreciate the strong support for this action by Mayor Mary Nicklawske. I also appreciate the votes in favor from Council Members Andrea West and Kevin Edberg. As documented in the Feb. 24 meeting minutes, Mayor Nicklawske explained that joining the coalition “could help develop parameters for cities, like creating prohibition against masks, requiring agent identification displayed on uniforms, and banning immigration activity near schools and bus stops.” These plain and profound practices are necessary parts of a democracy.

Andrew Ervin White Bear Lake

Appreciate city leadership, response

Perhaps I shouldn’t be surprised by the incivility in a recent letter attacking Mayor Nicklawske and Council Member Gurrola. It’s apparent some folks get overly emotional when rant-

who have seen the miracle of the Living God in their own midst, in their own time. The challenge of Easter faith is that we’re asked to accept her sight as our vision. Without tangible evidence, we’re asked to believe what we cannot see with our own eyes. Once again, we see how easy it is to understand the old saying, seeing is believing. And, once again, we’re reminded it requires a leap of faith to accept the truth that believing is seeing.

I warmly encourage you and yours to join your church family in worship Easter morning, April 5, in whatever congregation feels most like home to you, and to reflect further on Mary’s loud, clear, peculiar declaration, I have seen the Lord!

May we all be blessed with God’s Grace and Peace amid the difficult and dangerous days through which we’re living in 2026.

Rev. Mark Kuether is the interim pastor at Parkview United Church of Christ in White Bear Lake.

ing against policies they don’t like. I see city leadership responding to a demonstrably incompetent federal agency that’s burned money, damaged Minnesota’s economy and made us less safe.

Don’t believe me, pay heed to the chiefs of police of Brooklyn Park, Mendota Heights, St. Paul and Minneapolis, who said ICE agents were “violating the Constitution,” “racial profiling” and “endangering citizens,” or federal Judge Eric Tostrud, who concluded DHS and ICE illegally stopped and arrested legal residents and U.S. citizens.

Believe the Republican governor of Vermont, who characterized ICE/ DHS for its “lack of training, coordination, leadership and outdated tactics.” Listen to former ICE trainer Ryan Schwank, who testified that the federal government cut corners to surge large numbers of new officers into service, reducing training until it was “deficient, defective, and broken.”

FOX 9 reported that ICE detained nine children during the month of January, including citizens, legal residents and a 2-year-old. Read the Star Tribune analysis of the federal DHS “worst of the worst” website used to justify the surge, which claimed 500 violent offenders were arrested here. It was later acknowledged by DHS to

White Bear Lake Area

April 5: Are Sin, Disease, & Death Real?

April 12: Doctrine of Atonement

April 19: Probation After Death

April 26: Everlasting Punishment

be “riddled with errors and inaccuracies.” There appeared to be only about 40 new arrests. The surge cost more than $200 million, about $5 million per new violent criminal arrest. If that’s not enough, believe your own eyes. Watch videos of U.S. citizen Scott Thao, who was taken from his home without a warrant because ICE agents had the wrong address. Watch Alex Pretti’s killing by DHS/ ICE agents. He did the most Minnesota thing: he helped a woman up out of the snow. For brandishing no more than a cell phone, he was shot in the back after being immobilized by ICE agents. In review, federal authorities spent a ton of money to arrest a handful of violent criminals and deployed poorly trained new recruits who didn’t understand their constitutional duties, didn’t coordinate with local police, stopped people because they “looked like immigrants,” detained children and — per local law enforcement — made us less safe. If your spouse looks like they might be an immigrant, it would be rational to fear they might be hauled to a Texas detention center with your children. And if you’re a mayor who cares about the safety of your constituents and the prudent use of tax

SEE MORE LETTERS, PAGE 18

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

• An unlocked vehicle was rummaged through overnight March 18 in the 1800 block of Birch Street.

• A Cottage Grove woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near White Bear Avenue and County Road D March 19.

• Officers investigating an assault at a bar in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue March 19 arrested a woman after she resisted arrest and spit on an officer. She was booked on charges of felony fourth-degree assault, gross misdemeanor obstruction and gross misdemeanor assault. A second woman was cited for misdemeanor assault.

• Disorderly conduct was reported at the intersection of County Road E and Scheuneman Road and in the 4700 block of Bald Eagle Avenue March 19.

• A harassment restraining order short form was served in the 3400 block of Midland Court March 19.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 2100 block of Orchard Lane March 19.

• A Maplewood woman was arrested for DWI after officers found her sleeping behind the wheel of a running vehicle in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue March 20.

• Harassment was reported in the 1700 block of County Road E East March 20.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for domestic assault in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road March 20.

• Disorderly conduct was reported March 20 in the 1000 block of Highway 96.

• Harassment was reported in the 2200 block of Sixth Street March 20.

• A St. Paul resident was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop March 21 near Elm Street and White Bear Avenue.

• Officers mediated a road rage incident in the 4700 block of Highway 61 March 21.

• A vehicle reported stolen on Birch Lake Blvd. March 21 was found to have been repossessed.

• Harassment was reported in the 4900 block of Birch Lake Circle March 21.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 5000 block of Lake Avenue March 21.

• Officers responded to a domestic dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road March 22.

A White Bear Lake man was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N. March 22.

• Officers helped arrange an Uber ride for a Ham Lake man found sleeping in a vestibule on Sixth Street March 22.

• A burglary was reported March 22 in the 4400 block of Lincoln Avenue.

• Theft was reported in the 3800 block of Dennis Lane March 22.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault in the 1800 block of Birch Street March 22.

• Officers mediated a civil issue in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road March 22.

• A noise complaint was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue March 22.

• Officers responded to a verbal domestic incident in the 2400 block of Floral Drive March 22.

• A Chisago City man was arrested for DWI in the 1200 block of Gun Club Road March 23.

Officers are assisting NYPD with an ongoing investigation into fictitious emergency calls on Park Street.

• Officers mediated a civil issue in the 200 block of Village Center Drive March 23.

• Officers assisted a citizen with a missing wallet in the 4300 block of Lake Avenue March 23.

• A counterfeit $100 bill was used to purchase pull tabs at a business in the 4400 block of Lake Avenue S. March 23.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1000 block of Highway 96 March 23.

• Harassment was reported in the 2100 block of First Street March 23.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4500 block of Centerville Road March 23.

• Package theft was reported in the 1700 block of County Road E March 23.

• A man was arrested in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road following a report of an assault March 24.

• Harassment was reported in the 3500 block of McKnight Road N. March 24.

• Officers responded to a driving complaint at Ramsey County Beach March 24.

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:

Grant

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop for expired registration March 2 on westbound Highway 36 and Keats Avenue N. and cited the driver.

• Deputies responded to a call reporting suspicious knocking at 11:16 p.m. March 4 in the 9000 block of Lansing Avenue N., after the homeowner heard knocking on her front door. Although deputies checked around the house and outbuildings, they discovered nothing.

• Deputies on patrol in the 10000 block of 75th Street N. on March 7 observed a vehicle passing on the shoulder and cited the driver for it.

Mahtomedi

An abandoned 911 call turned in March 1 from Crocus Street turned out to come from a cell phone owner who was cleaning his phone.

• A motorist on Stillwater Road and Hallam Avenue S. was arrested for DWI at 10:25 p.m. March 1, after deputies conducted a traffic stop for rear lights that were not illuminated.

• Deputies cited a motorist on southbound Wildwood Road and Mahtomedi Avenue for speeding March 2 after they observed the driver fly down the hill at a high rate of speed. A second

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• Deputies arrested a 32-year-old man from St. Paul for DWI Feb. 22 after seeing the Toyota RAV4 the man was driving swerve and almost strike a median near the intersection of Highway 61 and County Road D.

• Deputies responded Feb. 23 to a report of a 22-year-old man being struck by a slow-moving vehicle in a parking lot in the 800 block of County Road E East. The 44-year-old woman who struck him provided valid insurance information and stated he unexpectedly pulled in front of her vehicle, which struck him. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies arrested a 29-year-old man from Little Canada Feb. 23 on an active warrant after he was disorderly and refused to leave an establishment in the 1000 block of County Road E East that asked him to do so.

• Deputies responded Feb. 24 to a report of suspicious activity in the 3200 block of Edgerton Street, and located and arrested a 25-year-old man from White Bear Township on an active warrant.

• Deputies responded Feb. 24 to a complaint made by a 61-year-old man in the 3200 block of Meadow Brook Court who reported that his 52-year-old ex-wife flushed his prescription medication down the toilet. Deputies mediated the dispute.

• Deputies issued a theft citation Feb. 25 to a 59-year-old St. Paul man after employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East caught him attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.

• A school resource officer was informed Feb. 25 of a suspected assault on a school bus in the 100 block of Suzanne Court. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded Feb. 26 to a report of a customer being loud,

motorist was pulled over March 4 on Long Lake Road for an unreadable license plate and expired registration and issued a verbal warning. A third motorist was cited March 5 on Wildwood Road and Birchwood Road for driving an unregistered vehicle on a public roadway. Two more motorists were verbally warned about expired registration that day. A sixth motorist was cited March 6 for an illegal turn after they failed to use the designated turn lane and turned from the straight lane of Wildwood Road onto Century Avenue instead. A seventh motorist was cited on Stillwater Road March 6 for failure to provide proof of insurance following a traffic stop for no turn signal. An eighth motorist was cited on Mahtomedi Avenue for driving after revocation March 7, after deputies initiated a traffic stop for expired registration. A ninth driver was cited for driving after revocation on March 7 after being pulled over for driving on Stillwater Road with faulty license plate lights and a faulty brake light.

• Deputies responded to a civil dispute about food stamps on Wildwood Road on March 4. On March 5, deputies responded to another disturbance at the apartment complex on Wildwood Road, but the party in question would not come out of her apartment. She was mailed a citation for disturbing the peace.

• Mahtomedi Avenue residents reported finding trackers in their vehicle on March 5 and requested a case number for documentation.

disruptive and threatening staff in a fast-food restaurant in the 3400 block of Rice Street. Upon their arrival, the suspect had left the restaurant. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded Feb. 27 to a report of someone stealing a basket of donated change worth more than $100 at a gas station in the 1000 block of County Road E East. Deputies collected evidence and launched an investigation.

• Deputies issued a theft citation Feb. 27 to a 15-year-old male after he was caught stealing skincare products, eyelash brushes, mascara, eyeliner, foundation and a backpack, worth nearly $140, from a business in the 800 block of County Road E East. On Feb. 28, deputies responded to a report of shots fired in the 100 block of Mayfair Road and located a shell casing in the middle of the road. They collected evidence and interviewed a man with information about possible suspects.

White

Bear Township

• A 49-year-old man from Hugo reported Feb. 22 being bitten in the left and right leg by a dog owned by an 85-year-old man in the 5600 block of Bald Eagle Boulevard. Deputies interviewed both parties, collected evidence and sent the case to an animal control officer for a follow-up investigation.

• Deputies responded to a report of assault Feb. 26 in the 2300 block of Hoxie Avenue and arrested a 22-year-old woman from Hinkley after she struck a 30-year-old man in his Honda Accord, scraped her Ford Focus and left paint marks on both vehicles.

• Deputies issued a trespass notice Feb. 28 to a 41-year-old woman from Vadnais Heights after she picked up an Instacart order and added an additional $50 worth of merchandise to her bags before attempting to leave a store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive.

• A bicycle was reported stolen March 6 from a Wildwood Road address.

Puma Lane residents reported receiving a scam text March 7 regarding an unpaid citation. However, the complainants had receipts from when they paid off the ticket a few months ago. The complainants were advised to call the court first thing on Monday morning.

Pine Springs

• After deputies responded to the scene of an accident with no injuries reportedly involving a deer on Hilton Trail N. and 66th Street N. on March 2, they instead discovered a dead coyote. After deputies removed the coyote from the roadway, they issued the driver a written warning for undisclosed reasons.

• An eastbound motorist was arrested at 11:08 p.m. March 4 on Highway 36, just west of the Hilton Trail flyover, after deputies pulled the vehicle over for tabs that expired in May 2025. Deputies conducted three more traffic stops and issued warnings that week for expired registration, all on Hilton Trail N. between 62nd Street N. and 66th Street N.

• A westbound motorist was cited for speeding at 11:57 p.m. March 4 on Highway 36 just west of Hilton Trail N.

• A motorist pulled over for erratic driving was issued a citation for child safety restraint violation March 6 on Hilton Trail N. and 66th Street N.

SPORTS

Liberty nabs 5th place in state tourney

Liberty Classical Academy made a good showing in the school’s first-ever state tournament appearance in any sport.

The Lions took an 85-63 drubbing from Red Lake County in the quarterfinal Thursday at Target Center, but bounced back to capture fifth place in Class 1A with consolation bracket wins over Cherry 79-63 on Friday and Southland 56-53 on Saturday at Concordia-St. Paul. The White Bear Lake parochial school finished 29-3.

Liberty senior Sam Rupnow was named to

CONTRIBUTED

The Liberty Classical Academy boys varsity basketball team makes the school’s first-ever state tournament appearance.

the All-Tournament team. Rupnow tallied 80 points in the three games (the third highest total among 32 teams in the four classes) along with 22 rebounds. He had 28 against RLC, 30 against Cherry and 22 against Southland.

Ethan Richter notched 51 points in the three games.

Cruz Triana had 33 points and 21 rebounds.

The state champions were Hills-Beaver Creek in 1A, Minnehaha Academy in 2A, Totino-Grace in 3A and Chaska in 4A.

Bruce Strand

Bears name Athena Award recipient

Josie Guidinger is the Athena Award recipient for White Bear Lake’s Class of 2026. She will attend a recognition event at St. Paul RiverCentre on April 15.

Athena is an award for multisport female athletes with strong academic record in the metro area. Guidinger lettered six years in Alpine skiing and three years in tennis, was captain for both teams, collected three all-conference awards and two honorable mentions, and qualified for state twice. She is a senior class officer, Student Council and National Honor Society member, and serves on Link Crew and Mentorship Club. Guidinger plans to study aviation in college and compete in Alpine.

SPORTS PREVIEWS SPRING 2026

The Bears will be rebuilding the singles lineup after the 1-2-3 players from last year’s 9-8 team graduated. Returning starters are Brooks Peltier, who played 4-singles, along with most of the doubles lineup: Mason Voeller and Asher Ludwig at No. 1, Joseph Karls and Chris Herr at No, 2, and Keenan Griffin at No. 3. Coach Paul Kolenich said there’ll be a “mix of power and consistency through the lineup.”

First 3 matches: Thursday, April 2, Como Park, 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, Hill-Murray, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at Woodbury, 4 p.m.

White Bear Lake has a chance to improve on last year’s strong showing of third place in the conference and second place in the section.

The Bears are led by sophomore captain Easton Fiddle, who has placed 19th and 31st at state the last two years, and senior Magnus Benz, who made all-conference along with Fiddle.

Other returning players are seniors Thomas Pederson (honorable mention last year) and Ryan Kiessner, and junior Gavin Elgard. Vying for varsity slots are senior Cody Olinger and sophomore Gardy Giefer.

“We have a very strong nucleus returning,” coach Craig Nasvik said. “Finishing 2nd in the section last year was great but the focus for this year's team is to do one better. They are looking to compete for the section championship and get to state.”

First 3 meets: Thursday, April 9, invitational at Bunker Hills, 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, conference at River Oaks, noon Wednesday, April 15, invitational at Blackwolf Run, 9:30 a.m.

White Bear Lake is coming off a strong season with second-place finishes in the conference and section behind Stillwater.

Returning state medalists are Tomi Animasaun (sixth, long jump, and eighth, 300 hurdles) and Maxwell Popp (seventh, 3200).

Coach Seton Foster said the team should be strong in strong in long jump, led by Easton Miles, along with throws and sprints.

Captains are Brian White, James Bowen and Wyatt Stachowiak. Other returning lettermen are Noah Blaisdell, Jake Buche, Alexander Cantwell, Vincent Kazmierczak, Mason Labathe, Matthew Law, Alexander Maki, Owen Otto, Kylan Roed, Joseph Rogers, Daniel Wickum, and Joseph Wolfe.

First 3 meets:

Tuesday, March 24, home, Forest Lake and Roseville, 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 9, White Bear Lake Relays, 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 15, White Bear Lake Invitational, 4 p.m.

White Bear Lake has four returning state qualifiers from a team that ended last season on a high note, after placing fifth of 10 teams in the conference.

“Last year we had nine individual athletes qualify for state, the most in my tenure as a White Bear Lake coach,” said Brianna Seibel, who’s entering her 11th season. “Our goal is to beat that number this year and place higher in our conference meet.”

All the state qualifiers back are in field events — seniors Jinet Demanou (discus) and Karen Enow (shot put) and juniors Pearl Niemioja (shot put) and Khloe Pankonien (long jump). Returning athletes who placed high enough in the conference

Two of the top players are back from a 2025 team that was runner-up in both the conference and sectional. They are senior captain Maddy Vang (all-conference) and eighth-grader Adelle Blasing (honorable mention).

Moving into varsity slots will be seniors Greta Misgen and Nora Hall, junior Macie Marston, and sophomores Lilly Maietta and Lilly Sjostrom.

Coach Craig Nasvik thinks the new players in the lineup can fill the void left by graduated players. “We are looking to improve from last year's finish in conference and the section,” he stated. “For the team to finish second in the section last year was a great accomplishment but we’re looking to do one better this year.”

First 3 meets:

Wednesday, April 15, conference at River Oaks, 11:30 a.m.

Monday, April 20, conference at Highland Park National, 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, conference at Tanners Brook, 1 p.m.

meet to make all-conference were Enow, Demanou, senior Savannah Severson (throws), junior sprinters Grace Weierke and Madelyn Compton (also a jumper), and sophomore middle-distance runners Lucy Miehke and Piper Heinsohn. There are 28 returning lettermen: 17 seniors, seven juniors and four sophomores. “We have some really hard working and talented returning athletes who are hungry to compete,” Siebel remarked.

First 3 meets:

Thursday, March 26, home invitational, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, invitational at Roseville, 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, invitational at Mounds View, 4 p.m.

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SPRING 2026

Most of the White Bear Lake lineup is back from a 10-5 season that ended with a section finals overtime loss to Stillwater, the eventual state runnerup.

“We know what we are getting back and we are very excited about it,” said coach Brandon Husak, noting that the veterans include junior goalie Reid Vickstrom and players who totaled 211 points.

Husak listed team strengths as experience, skill, and hunger.

“We have been in back to back section championships, lost them both, and are hungry (to put in kind terms) to advance much deeper into the postseason. We have goals of nothing less than everything we can achieve.”

Offensive threats returning include senior Gavin Huot; juniors Colton Butts, Wyatt Raleigh, Liam Maloy, Nolan Buetow, and Eli LaLonde; sophomores Gavin Wippler and Carter Eastburn; and freshman Westin Raleigh. Returning in midfield and defense are seniors Mick Wickland (defender) and Tanner Olsen (defender); juniors Adrian Eicher (defender, face-off), Eli Rauschendorfer (long-stick

SPORTS PREVIEWS

mid), Nathan Knutson (mid defense), Connor Law (defender); and sophomore Colton Jansen (defender).

The Bears also welcome back two 2024 starters who didn’t play last year, senior Tyler LaLonde (face-off, midfield) and junior Ty Mueller (midfielder).

“A lot of teams could win a state championship, but it doesn't happen by accident,”

Husak said.

“Skill is always there, yes, but willingness and determination are the biggest factors to tip the scales. You can't script it, and you can't put it in a game plan.”

The Bears were section champions and placed fourth in the state tournament last season. They were 19-8 overall and third in the Suburban East.

“Our biggest team strengths are going to be experience and depth. Our team has 11 players that have played in the state tournament,” said coach Jill Renneke.

Husak sees the group’s collective attitude as not needing “the spotlight” but having a self-sufficient, focused and unified mindset, factors that could make them a dangerous team.

First 3 games: Saturday, April 11, Maple Grove, 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, Roseville Area, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16, at East Ridge, 7 p.m.

The lineup is headed by senior pitcher Lilly Martin, a twotime all-conference pick with over 500 strikeouts, signed by Minnesota-Duluth.

Other letter-winners back are seniors Maddie Pearson (infield) and Lauren Elias (outfield), and juniors Teagan Kotzmacher (outfield), Lauren Simmons (infield), Kendall Roeser (infield), Aubrey Lund (infield), Anessa Pena (outfield) and Allie Casemore (catcher).

Also likely to see action will be seniors Allie Castro (infield) and Camille Castro (infield), junior Julia Johnson (outfield) and freshmen Lila Evans (outfield/pitcher) and Peyton Rivard (pitcher).

“Expectations are high,” Renneke said. “The goal is to win the state championship.”

First 3 games: Wednesday, April 1, at Roseville Area, 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 6, Park, 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, Woodbury, 4:30 p.m.

Following their best season in 20 years, White Bear Lake must replace a strong 2025 senior class to keep it going.

“This team wants to continue growing as we did last year,” coach Ryan Fitzpatrick said. “Playing for a section championship, and getting to the state tournament is always the goal.”

The Bears were 17-8 and placed second in the section behind Cretin-Derham Hall. That was the program’s best record since 2005, the last state tournament year.

Top returning starter is Jackson Kolb, junior pitcher/third baseman who made all-conference. Others returning with significant varsity experience are senior Christian Humphrey (center field), junior Miles Oklobzija (pitcher/infield) and junior Riley Helmberger (second base).

Stepping into the lineup are juniors Logan Magnuson (first base) and Brody LaShomb (pitcher), sophomores Will Connors (outfield), Max Butters (infield/pitcher) and Chase Bachmeier (outfield/pitcher) and freshman Jack Kook (shortstop/pitcher).

“Team strengths are going to be our deep pitching staff and defense,” Fitzpatrick said.

First 3 games:

Wednesday, April 8, at East Ridge, 4:30 p.m.

Friday, April 10, Roseville Area, 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 13, at Woodbury, 4:30 p.m.

REGIONAL TRAIL: Public invited to attend open house next week

the trail and has since supported grant applications for funding.

Washington County has secured a $1,244,000 grant through the state’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund. The grant funding has kick-started the design phase of the project, but Blaylock noted the funding award for the project is subject to the approval of the 2026 state Legislature.

“We are excited to hit the ground running with the design phase,” Blaylock said.

Community engagement, preliminary design, data collection and analysis and environmental documentation are all planned for 2026. Final design and project bidding would follow in 2027, and construction would also start that year.

“There are many moving parts anticipated during the design phase … the timing (construction start) may change. We will continue to work with city staff as details are figured out,” Blaylock said.

Hugo Mayor Tom Weidt said, “I’m looking forward to this getting done. The sooner the better, and it looks like we are finally on the glide path to get it done. Hopefully, nothing derails it and we can keep going and get

IF YOU GO

Hardwood Creek Regional Trail open house

When: 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 8

Where: Oneka Room at Hugo City Hall Details: Learn about the project’s design process and the project schedule, and meet the project team. Attendees can provide feedback and share ideas for the project.

Contact: Erin Blaylock, project manager: erin. blaylock@washingtoncountymn.gov or 651430-4384.

to that construction (start). That would be great to see.”

An open house is planned for April 8 (see pullout for more information). Those who cannot attend the open house can review open house materials and provide feedback online via the project website from April 8-30. Visit www.washingtoncountymn.gov/HardwoodCreekExtension for more information.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

Elliott Engen arrested on suspicion of DUI

Minnesota State Rep. Elliott Engen (District 36A), who is running for state auditor, has been charged with fourth-degree DWI following a traffic stop in White Bear Lake.

According to the White Bear Lake Police Department, at approximately 1:51 a.m. Friday, March 27, the agency conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Fourth Street and Otter Lake Road in White Bear Lake for observed traffic violations, including speeding, expired registration and an inoperable

headlight. The driver, a 27-year-old male from Lino Lakes identified as Engen, was arrested for suspicion of driving while impaired.

Engen was transported to the White Bear Lake Police Department, where a breath test reportedly indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.13. He was subsequently booked into the Ramsey County Adult Detention Center on a charge of fourth-degree DWI and later released from custody.

As of press time, the case had been forwarded to the city’s prosecuting attorney for processing.

Fire department confirms identities, ages of victims in house fire

The White Bear Lake Fire Department has released the names and ages of the four victims in the house fire that occurred in the 2100 block of Richard Avenue March 21.

Jessi (Pierce) Hinrichs, 38, and her three children, Hudson Hinrichs, 8, Cayden Hinrichs, 6, and Avery Hinrichs, 4, were killed in the fire. Preliminary findings have not led to any evidence that the fire was set intentionally. The

official cause of the fire remains under investigation by the White Bear Lake Fire Department and State Fire Marshal’s Office.

“(They) will forever be loved and remembered by their husband and father, Mike Hinrichs, and the White Bear Lake and Mahtomedi communities,” said White Bear Lake Fire Chief Greg Peterson. “We have been in close contact with Mike to support him, his family and his friends. He has asked us to share his request for privacy while he grieves and the rest of his family and friends navigate this unimaginable time.”

Join us @ South Shore Trinity E A S T E R S U N D A Y April 5

6:45am * • 9am • 10:45am

* *6:45am is Lakeside (dressaccordingly) Breakfast before & after 9am worship

HOLY WEEK SCH EDU LE

Maundy Thursday

April 2 | 11am & 6:30pm Good Friday

April 3 | 11am & 6:30pm

South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church LCMS 2480 South Shore Blvd. White Bear Lake, MN 651.429.4293 | sstwbl.org

EASTER MASSES

Holy Thursday,April 6

The Lord’s Supper 7:00 pm (with incense)

Good Friday,April 7

Veneration of the Cross 7:00 pm

Holy Saturday,April 8 Easter VigilMass 8:00 pm (with incense)

EasterSunday,April 9 Mass 9:00 am (with incense)

KohlerHall 700 Mahtomedi Ave Mahtomedi, MN 55115 651-426-3245 www.stjudeofthelake.org

PUBLIC NOTICES

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-917 JUDGE REYNALDO ALIGADA, JR. NOTICE OF HEARING County of Ramsey, Petitioner, v. Juan Martinez Albarran, Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (MERS), State of Minnesota, Xa Lee, Elizabeth Gallegos, Pedro Gallegos, Levi Price, Juan M. Vargas Diaz, David R. Beaudet, as Trustee of the Trust Agreement of David R. Beaudet, Christine Esparza, Matthew G. Knutson, Royal Credit Union, Felipe G. Illescas, Affinity Plus Credit Union, Jon Cody, Thomas Cody, CTW Group Incorporated, Tradition Capital Bank, Heriberto Martinez Gomez, Cambria Financial Group LLC dba Cambria Mortgage, Pawtoki Wah, Thaung Aye, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Jeremiah W. Saari, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Jennie Bernard, Debra R. Messenger, Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC., Gerardo Hernandez, Chue Chang, Kou Chang, Blaze Credit Union-FKA Hiway Federal Credit Union, Capital One Bank (USA), Andres Jaramillo, Encarnacion Jaramillo, Bruce Kou Yang, Ehnine Paung, Ain Thee Paung, Michael Roach, TCF National Bank, Karla Judith Martinez, Loan Depot.com, Tewodros E. Dejene, Jeffrey Reed, U.S. Bank National Associated N.D., Midland Credit Management, Inc., Minerva Munoz, Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc., U.S. Bank National Association, Hank Cu, Ruby Ngoc Nguyen, MV Builders, LLC., CAG Minnesota Fund II, LLC., Sunrise Banks, National Association, Houa Vang, Lake Area Mortgage, Cavalry SPV I as Assignee GE Retail Bank/Sam’s Club Discover, Derrell Evans, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC,. Michel M. Braaten, Ted Ries, Juan Jose Escobar, Regions Hospital, Yangsbrothers, LLC., Americana Community Bank, City of St. Paul and County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including unknown spouses, if any, Respondents. IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE RESPONDENTS HEREIN ABOVE NAMED:

You, and each of you, are hereby notified that on the 12th day of May 2026, at 9:00 a.m. via ZOOM before Judge Reynaldo Aligada, Jr. Petitioner will present to the above-named court a Petition now on file herein for condemnation of certain land for highway purposes. Parties wishing to appear at the remote hearing at 9:00 a.m. on May 12, 2026, can join by logging into zoom.us/join or by telephone (audio only/toll-free) at 1-833-568-8864. After connecting, enter the following Meeting ID and Passcode: Meeting ID: 161 026 9548 Passcode: 192182

If you plan to appear by ZOOM or telephone, please notify the petitioner’s attorney listed below in order to receive a copy of any proposed exhibits and orders provided to the court. You are not required to notify the petitioner’s attorney, but failure to do so may prevent you from having access to the exhibits and proposed orders submitted.

The object of the Petition is to acquire by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the real property interests as described in the Petition.

The land desired and proposed to be taken is situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota, and is described in the Petition, together with the names of all persons appearing of record or known to Petitioner to be the owners of said land or interested therein including all whom Petitioner has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each as nearly as can be ascertained.

At the hearing, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court for an order permitting payment to the respective owners or deposit with the Court an amount equal to Petitioner’s approved appraisal of value of the parcels described in the Petition, thereby transferring title and the right to possession of the property to the County of Ramsey effective May 18, 2026. Furthermore, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to ascertain the allocation of funds so deposited and to establish a procedure for the withdrawal of those funds. Neither payment to the respective owners nor deposit with the Court shall prejudice or affect the right of a respective party to apply for additional payment in this proceeding. Finally, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to establish procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein.

A party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the court hearing and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a court order, and a court order approving the public use or public purpose, necessity, and authority for the taking is final unless an appeal is brought within 60 days after service of the order on the party. Furthermore, a party wishing to be heard as to the appointment of the commissioners who will ascertain the amount of damages must appear at the court hearing.

Any person not appearing at the hearing, or otherwise filing a notice of appearance with the district court, may not be notified of further hearings or actions related to the Petition.

Dated: March 18, 2026

JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn

Scott Schwahn (#0222239)

Assistant Ramsey County Attorney 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3014 (Schwahn) scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us

Attorneys for Petitioner

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 25, April 1 and 8, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-917 JUDGE REYNALDO ALIGADA, JR. PETITION

County of Ramsey, Petitioner,

v. Juan Martinez Albarran, Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (MERS), State of Minnesota, Xa Lee, Elizabeth Gallegos, Pedro Gallegos, Levi Price, Juan M. Vargas Diaz, David R. Beaudet, as Trustee of the Trust Agreement of David R. Beaudet, Christine Esparza, Matthew G. Knutson, Royal Credit Union, Felipe G. Illescas, Affinity Plus Credit Union, Jon Cody, Thomas Cody, CTW Group Incorporated, Tradition Capital Bank, Heriberto Martinez Gomez, Cambria Financial Group LLC dba Cambria Mortgage, Pawtoki Wah, Thaung Aye, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Jeremiah W. Saari, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Jennie Bernard, Debra R. Messenger, Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC., Gerardo Hernandez, Chue Chang, Kou Chang, Blaze Credit Union-FKA Hiway Federal Credit Union, Capital One Bank (USA), Andres Jaramillo, Encarnacion Jaramillo, Bruce Kou Yang, Ehnine Paung, Ain Thee Paung, Michael Roach, TCF National Bank, Karla Judith Martinez, Loan Depot.com, Tewodros E. Dejene, Jeffrey Reed, U.S. Bank National Associated N.D., Midland Credit Management, Inc., Minerva Munoz, Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc., U.S. Bank National Association, Hank Cu, Ruby Ngoc Nguyen, MV Builders, LLC., CAG Minnesota Fund II, LLC., Sunrise Banks, National Association, Houa Vang, Lake Area Mortgage, Cavalry SPV I as Assignee GE Retail Bank/Sam’s Club Discover, Derrell Evans, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC,. Michel M. Braaten, Ted Ries, Juan Jose Escobar, Regions Hospital, Yangsbrothers, LLC., Americana Community Bank, City of St. Paul and County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in

the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including unknown spouses, if any, Respondents.

IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND

The County of Ramsey brings this Petition and respectfully states and alleges: I.

That this proceeding is taken pursuant to law in the name of and on behalf of the County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, by John J. Choi, the duly elected, qualified and acting County Attorney, at the request of the Board of County Commissioners of Ramsey County, as shown by County Board Resolution No. B2023-052, dated April 4, 2023, a certified copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof. II.

That the County of Ramsey also deems it necessary, expedient, and for a public use and purpose to obtain by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the permanent easements and temporary construction easements in the lands as described in this Petition, together with all structures, trees, shrubs, grass and herbage to be damaged thereby. III.

In the attached Exhibit B, where a “temporary easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights of possession and use, for a limited period of time, necessary or incidental to support the related construction project, including the right: to stage equipment or supplies; to access other portions of the construction project; to make minimal permanent alterations to the grade of the land that do not substantially impact the remainder; to remove (and restore in substantially similar condition) any plants, ground cover, or physical improvements; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; and to install any temporary improvements. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained. The term of the temporary easement shall be for 24 months beginning on May 18, 2026, and ending May 18, 2028, or for 24 months from the date when granted pursuant to order of the district court, whichever is later. In addition, the interests identified in this paragraph include the option of the Petitioner to extend the temporary easement for up to six-month, two time, by providing to GRANTOR, at least 30 days before the expiration of the term, written notice of the length of extension and payment equal to the prorata value of the compensation for the original term.

IV.

Personal property not specifically identified as being acquired, including, but not limited to, fencing, irrigation systems, pavement, curbing, or signage, or trees, shrubs, plants, or ground covering, is not included in this petition, except to the extent the above rights provide for the removal, replacement, use, or repair of such property. It is the intention of the Petitioner to address any claim of damage related to personal property destroyed, removed, lost, or otherwise damaged, but not repaired or replaced in substantially similar condition, in accordance with applicable relocation laws, including Minn. Stat. § 117.50 - .56 or the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, and any regulations adopted pursuant thereto.

V.

That the purpose for which said interests in land described in this Petition are being acquired is for the purpose of a roadway project for reconstructing Maryland Avenue from Clark Street to Edgerton Street, which includes updates to sidewalks and pedestrian crossing to ensure ADA (American Disability Act) compliance.

VI.

The taking in this matter is to obtain rights sufficient to support the construction and maintenance of a public highway, including related facilities. Unless specifically identified, pre-existing utility, pipeline, access, and other easements or interests shall remain in full force and effect and shall only be impaired to the extent necessary for the County of Ramsey to construct and maintain a public highway, and related uses, on the land being acquired. For any parcel being taken by this condemnation proceeding that is subject to preexisting utility, pipeline, access, or other easements or interests, the County of Ramsey shall work as needed with the easement holder to adjust facilities to accommodate the construction or to adjust construction plans to minimize related damages.

VII.

It is the intent of the Petitioner that reasonable access, in at least one direction, to the main thoroughfare will be maintained for any remaining interest of a property from which a temporary easement is taken.

VIII. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, should tests or evaluations undertaken by or on behalf of the County of Ramsey indicate the possible presence of pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous substances on any of the property described in this Petition, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to defer effecting the transfer of the interest to any of the property as described herein for a reasonable time until the County of Ramsey can evaluate whether it wishes to proceed with the taking, abandon these proceedings and dismiss the Petition as to said property, or otherwise respond to such information.

Further, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to recover costs of clean-up and testing and all other damages resulting from the presence of pollutants, contaminates, or hazardous substances on the property described herein, from all potentially responsible parties in a separate legal action.

IX.

That a party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the hearing of this Court at which the County of Ramsey, as Petitioner, shall present this Petition to the Court and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a Court order.

X.

That the land in these proceedings to be taken are situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota and are more particularly described in attached Exhibit B which is made a part hereof. The names of all persons appearing of record or known to the County of Ramsey to be the owners of said land, or interested therein, including all whom the County of Ramsey has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each, as nearly as can be ascertained, are set forth on attached Exhibit B. XI.

The County of Ramsey hereby moves the court for an order transferring title and possession of the parcels described herein prior to filing of an award by the court appointed commissioners, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 117.042. WHEREFORE, the County of Ramsey prays for an order of this Court as follows:

1. Adjudging that said taking is for a public purpose, is necessary, and is authorized by law; and

2. It be further adjudged that the County of Ramsey is entitled to take and hold such property for the public use pursuant to the Notice of Intent to Take Possession, on file with this Court; and

3. Appointing three disinterested commissioners, and at least two alternates, to ascertain and report the amount of damages that will be sustained by the several owners on account of the taking; fixing the time and place of the first meeting of the three commissioners; prescribing their compensation; establishing procedures for the disbursement of funds deposited with the district court; establishing procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein; and requiring the commissioners to file their report with the District Court Administrator within 365 days from the date of the order appointing the commissioners unless said time be further extended by order of the Court; and

4. For such other and further relief as may be proper and pursuant to law.

Dated: March 18, 2026

JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn

Scott Schwahn (#0222239) Assistant Ramsey County Attorney 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102

(651) 266-3014 (Schwahn) scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us Attorneys for Petitioner

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The undersigned hereby acknowledges that costs, disbursements, and reasonable attorney and witness fees may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. Section 549.211 to the party against whom the allegations in this pleading are asserted.

/s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn

EXHIBIT A

RAMSEY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION B2023-052

Sponsor: Public Works Meeting Date: 4/4/2023

Title: 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program File Number: 2023-120

Background and Rationale:

To qualify for state and federal funding and to proceed with construction projects, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners must approve the Public Works 5-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP is a planning document and funding estimates identified in the TIP are reflected in the county’s Capital Improvements Program Budget. Similar programs have been developed each year since 1988.

The Public Works department, annually, prepares the TIP using a collaborative process whereby the county solicits projects and input from area municipalities. Project inclusion in the TIP is based on a cooperative dialogue with municipal and state partners, along with technical analysis and consideration of funding opportunities. While funding limits will continue to challenge program delivery, communication and engagement with municipal partners ensures local needs and priorities are examined and addressed to the extent possible.

Projects included in the TIP are also looked at through the lens of the Ramsey County All Abilities Transportation Network policy, which prioritizes the most vulnerable users (i.e. pedestrians, bicyclists, people with disabilities, etc.) first.

The design, construction, and right-of-way costs identified in the TIP are estimates based on best practices in the industry. The funding landscape for transportation projects can be volatile and the ultimate delivery of the TIP is dependent on future funding levels. Partnering on projects with area communities, bordering counties, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and other state agencies will continue to be a critical way for Ramsey County to get the most from available funds.

Recommendation: The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners resolved to:

1. Adopt the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program.

2. Authorize the County Engineer to prepare plans and agreements for all projects identified in the Transportation Improvement Program, and to issue solicitations in accordance with County policies and procedures and the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s list of “Pre-Qualified Vendors by Work Type”.

3. Authorize the County Surveyor to execute Right of Way Plats and Certificate of Surveys for Highway projects that require the determination of existing right of way for the delineation and /or acquisition of property, for planning studies or disposition of excess county property.

4. Authorize the County Manager to enter into contracts and agreements, and execute change orders and amendments to contracts, supplemental agreements, and agreements related to the expenditure of Transportation Improvement Program Project Funds utilizing County State Aid, Federal, State, and participating funding associated with the construction of the approved projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program or a previously approved Transportation Improvement Program in accordance with the county’s procurement policies and procedures.

5. Authorize the County Engineer and County Attorney to acquire temporary easements, permanent easements, fee title, and enter into Limited Use Permits with the State of Minnesota for projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, by negotiation or condemnation.

6. Authorize the Public Works Director to approve negotiated settlements for up to $100,000 over the county’s appraised value per parcel for temporary and permanent easements and fee title.

7. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute purchase agreements, settlements, closing documents, Limited Use Permits, and other related real estate documentation associated with County Board approved acquisitions of real property.

8. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute cooperative agreements and maintenance agreements with cities, counties, the state, and other governmental agencies for their participation in projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program.

9. Authorize temporary cash loans from the County General Fund to the Road and Bridge Capital Improvement Program fund and the Wheelage Tax fund for costs of projects listed in the 2023 -2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, and for maintenance project expenditures occurring before bond or wheelage tax proceeds are received pending receipt of Federal, County State Aid Highway, state and participating funds.

10. Authorize the Public Works Director to submit grant applications for state and federal funding for projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program.

11. Authorize the County Manager to accept grants and execute grant agreements agreeing to the grant terms and conditions for the grant award. For grants that so require, the county agrees to be responsible for any additional amount by which the cost exceeds the county’s construction cost estimate and will return to the grantor any grant amount appropriated for the project but not utilized for the project under the terms of the grant agreement.

12. Authorize the County Manager to issue letters of support in place of an official Ramsey County Board Resolution for constituent cities’ grant applications. A motion to approve was made by Commissioner McGuire, seconded by Commissioner Reinhardt. Motion passed.

Aye: - 7: Frethem, MatasCastillo, McGuire, Moran, Ortega, Reinhardt, and Xiong By: Mee Cheng, Chief Clerk - County Board

I, Jason Yang, Interim Chief Clerk - County Board, duly appointed and qualified for Ramsey County, Minnesota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution B2023-052, passed by the Board of Commissioners on 04/04/2023

Attest: Jason Yang, Chief Clerk - County Board Date Certified: 2/25/2025

EXHIBIT B

PARCEL 3 (1204 EDGERTON STREET – PID 202922430081) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 3, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-43-0081– Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 1204 Edgerton Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 15

(1195 EDGERTON STREET – PID 292922210001)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 15, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-21-0001– Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 1195 Edgerton Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 17

(1195 JESSIE STREET – PID 292922210016)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 17, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

29-29-22-21-0016 – Abstract Property

PIN:

ADDRESS: 1195 Jessie Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 18 (1200 BRADLEY STREET – PID 292922210025)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 18, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-21-0025 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 1200 Bradley Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 19 (514 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 292922210026)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 19, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-21-0026 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 514 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 20 (1198 BURR STREET – PID 292922210035)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 20, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-21-0035 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 1198 Burr Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 21 (1199 BURR STREET – PID 292922210036) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 21, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-21-0036 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 1199 Burr Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 22 (1196 DESOTO STREET – PID 292922210046) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 22, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-21-0046 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 1196 Desota Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 25 (448 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 292922220003) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 25, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-22-0003 – Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s) 628185

ADDRESS: 448 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 27

(440 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 292922220005)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 27, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-22-0005 – Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s) 542118

ADDRESS: 440 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 28 (436 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 292922220006)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 28, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-22-0006 – Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s) 603042

ADDRESS: 436 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 29 (0 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 292922220007)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 29, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 29-29-22-22-0007– Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 32

(439 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922330143)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 32, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-33-0143 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 439 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 33 (447 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922330106)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 33, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles and the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-33-0106 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s). 523468

ADDRESS: 447 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 34 (453 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922330104)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 34, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-33-0104 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 453 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 35

(457 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922330105)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 35, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-33-0105 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 457 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 36 (461 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340061)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 36, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0061 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 461 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 38 (469 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340063)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 38, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota. PIN: 20-29-22-34-0063 – Abstract Property ADDRESS: 469 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 39 (475 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340064)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

PARCEL 41 (483 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340066) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 41, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0066 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 483 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 45 (511 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340087) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 45, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0087 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 511 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 46 (515 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340088) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 46, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0088 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 515 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 47

(525 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340120)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 47, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County,

Continued from previous page. Continued on next page.

APRIL 1, 2026

Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0120 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 525 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 48

(535 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340121)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 48, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0121 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 535 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 50

(549 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340179)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 50, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0179 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 549 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-502 JUDGE REYNALDO ALIGADA, JR. AMENDED NOTICE OF HEARING County of Ramsey, Petitioner,

v. K&T Properties, LLC., Lowry Finance Company, Advance Shoring Company, CFE Properties, LLC., Robert L. Brackey, Metropolitan Council Wastewater Services, Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc., 1280 Jackson LLC., Michelle Robinson, B. Bros. St Paul Properties, LLP., Soo Line Railroad Company, Kil-Ben Arlington, LLC., Saint Paul Family Project Limited Partnership, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of Saint Paul, Family Housing Fund, McDonough Organization With Respect and Equality for People (M.O.R.E.), Royal Credit Union, City of St. Paul and County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including unknown spouses, if any, Respondents. IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE RESPONDENTS HEREIN ABOVE NAMED:

You, and each of you, are hereby notified that on the 12th day of May 2026, at 10:00 a.m. via ZOOM before Judge Reynaldo Aligada, Jr. Petitioner will present to the above-named court a Petition now on file herein for condemnation of certain land for highway purposes. Parties wishing to appear at the remote hearing at 10:00 a.m. on May 12, 2026, can join by logging into zoom.us/join or by telephone (audio only/toll-free) at 1-833-568-8864. After connecting, enter the following Meeting ID and Passcode: Meeting ID: 161 026 9548 Passcode: 192182

If you plan to appear by ZOOM or telephone, please notify the petitioner’s attorney listed below in order to receive a copy of any proposed exhibits and orders provided to the court. You are not required to notify the petitioner’s attorney, but failure to do so may prevent you from having access to the exhibits and proposed orders submitted.

The object of the Petition is to acquire by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the real property interests as described in the Petition. This notice is amended to change the transfer of title and right of possession to an effective date of May 18, 2026.

The land desired and proposed to be taken is situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota, and is described in the Petition, together with the names of all persons appearing of record or known to Petitioner to be the owners of said land or interested therein including all whom Petitioner has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each as nearly as can be ascertained.

At the hearing, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court for an order permitting payment to the respective owners or deposit with the Court an amount equal to Petitioner’s approved appraisal of value of the parcels described in the Petition, thereby transferring title and the right to possession of the property to the County of Ramsey effective May 18, 2026. Furthermore, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to ascertain the allocation of funds so deposited and to establish a procedure for the withdrawal of those funds. Neither payment to the respective owners nor deposit with the Court shall prejudice or affect the right of a respective party to apply for additional payment in this proceeding. Finally, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to establish procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein.

A party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the court hearing and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a court order, and a court order approving the public use or public purpose, necessity, and authority for the taking is final unless an appeal is brought within 60 days after service of the order on the party. Furthermore, a party wishing to be heard as to the appointment of the commissioners who will ascertain the amount of damages must appear at the court hearing.

Any person not appearing at the hearing, or otherwise filing a notice of appearance with the district court, may not be notified of further hearings or actions related to the Petition.

Dated: March 10, 2026

JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn

Scott Schwahn (#0222239)

Assistant Ramsey County Attorney

360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3014 (Schwahn)

scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us

Attorneys for Petitioner

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 18, 25 and April 1, 2026.

PARCEL 51 (553 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340180)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 51, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0180 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 553 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 52 (557 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340181)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 52, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0181 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 557 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

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

CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION

COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-502

JUDGE REYNALDO ALIGADA, JR. AMENDED PETITION

County of Ramsey, Petitioner,

v. K&T Properties, LLC., Lowry Finance Company, Advance Shoring Company, CFE Properties, LLC., Robert L. Brackey, Metropolitan Council Wastewater Services, Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc., 1280 Jackson LLC., Michelle Robinson, B. Bros. St Paul Properties, LLP., Soo Line Railroad Company, Kil-Ben Arlington, LLC., Saint Paul Family Project Limited Partnership, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of Saint Paul, Family Housing Fund, McDonough Organization With Respect and Equality for People (M.O.R.E.), Royal Credit Union, City of St. Paul and County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including unknown spouses, if any, Respondents.

IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND

TO: THE DISTRICT COURT ABOVE NAMED

The County of Ramsey brings this Petition and respectfully states and alleges:

I.

That this proceeding is taken pursuant to law in the name of and on behalf of the County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, by John J. Choi, the duly elected, qualified and acting County Attorney, at the request of the Board of County Commissioners of Ramsey County, as shown by County Board Resolution No. B2023-052, dated April 4, 2023, a certified copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof.

II.

That the County of Ramsey also deems it necessary, expedient, and for a public use and purpose to obtain by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the permanent easements and temporary construction easements in the lands as described in this Petition, together with all structures, trees, shrubs, grass and herbage to be damaged thereby.

III.

In the attached Exhibit B, where “fee title” is identified, the interest being conveyed is fee simple title.

IV.

In the attached Exhibit B, where a “permanent easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights necessary for the construction, operation, and maintenance of all public right-of-way and utility uses now known or adopted in the future. Such rights include, but are not limited to, the right: to remove and use all plants, trees, ground cover, and natural growth now existing, or later planted or grown; to permanently grade or alter the grade of the land, and to remove and use all earth and other material not reasonably necessary for lateral and subjacent support; to limit or allow the location, number, and related characteristics of access from the remainder property to the public right-of-way; to store equipment or supplies; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; to remove any physical improvements or fixtures that interfere with its use as a public right-of-way; and to exclude from the area any use or improvement that conflicts with the rights conveyed herein. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained.

V.

In the attached Exhibit B, where a “temporary easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights of possession and use, for a limited period of time, necessary or incidental to support the related construction project, including the right: to stage equipment or supplies; to access other portions of the construction project; to make minimal permanent alterations to the grade of the land that do not substantially impact the remainder; to remove (and restore in substantially similar condition) any plants, ground cover, or physical improvements; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; and to install any temporary improvements. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained. The term of the temporary easement shall be for 24 months beginning on May 18, 2026, and ending May 18, 2028, or for 24 months from the date when granted pursuant to order of the district court, whichever is later. In addition, the interests identified in this paragraph include the option of the Petitioner to extend the temporary easement for up to two twelve-month terms to be held consecutive to the original term and to each other at the monthly rate determined for the initial term.

VI.

Personal property not specifically identified as being acquired, including, but not limited to, fencing, irrigation systems, pavement, curbing, or signage, or trees, shrubs, plants, or ground covering, is not included in this petition, except to the extent the above rights provide for the removal, replacement, use, or repair of such property. It is the intention of the Petitioner to address any claim of damage related to personal property destroyed, removed, lost, or otherwise damaged, but not repaired or replaced in substantially similar

PARCEL 53 (561 MARYLAND AVENUE EAST – PID 202922340182)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 53, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0182 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 561 Maryland Avenue East, Saint Paul, MN 55130

PARCEL 54 (1201 EDGERTON STREET – PID 202922340183) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 54, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 14, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 20-29-22-34-0183 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 1201 Edgerton Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 25, April 1 and 8, 2026.

condition, in accordance with applicable relocation laws, including Minn. Stat. § 117.50 - .56 or the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, and any regulations adopted pursuant thereto.

VII.

That the purpose for which said interests in land described in this Petition are being acquired is for the purpose of a roadway project for the Jackson Street reconstruction project which shall replace the deteriorated roadway and replace two aging bridges. Additionally, along the project pedestrian infrastructure will be installed and a connection between the Trout Brook Trail segments will be established.

VIII.

The taking in this matter is to obtain rights sufficient to support the construction and maintenance of a public highway, including related facilities. Unless specifically identified, pre-existing utility, pipeline, access, and other easements or interests shall remain in full force and effect and shall only be impaired to the extent necessary for the County of Ramsey to construct and maintain a public highway, and related uses, on the land being acquired. For any parcel being taken by this condemnation proceeding that is subject to preexisting utility, pipeline, access, or other easements or interests, the County of Ramsey shall work as needed with the easement holder to adjust facilities to accommodate the construction or to adjust construction plans to minimize related damages.

IX.

It is the intent of the Petitioner that reasonable access, in at least one direction, to the main thoroughfare will be maintained for any remaining interest of a property from which a temporary easement is taken.

X. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, should tests or evaluations undertaken by or on behalf of the County of Ramsey indicate the possible presence of pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous substances on any of the property described in this Petition, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to defer effecting the transfer of the interest to any of the property as described herein for a reasonable time until the County of Ramsey can evaluate whether it wishes to proceed with the taking, abandon these proceedings and dismiss the Petition as to said property, or otherwise respond to such information.

Further, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to recover costs of cleanup and testing and all other damages resulting from the presence of pollutants, contaminates, or hazardous substances on the property described herein, from all potentially responsible parties in a separate legal action. XI.

That a party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the hearing of this Court at which the County of Ramsey, as Petitioner, shall present this Petition to the Court and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a Court order. XII.

That the land in these proceedings to be taken are situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota and are more particularly described in attached Exhibit B which is made a part hereof. The names of all persons appearing of record or known to the County of Ramsey to be the owners of said land, or interested therein, including all whom the County of Ramsey has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each, as nearly as can be ascertained, are set forth on attached Exhibit B. XIII.

The County of Ramsey hereby moves the court for an order transferring title and possession of the parcels described herein prior to filing of an award by the court appointed commissioners, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 117.042.

WHEREFORE, the County of Ramsey prays for an order of this Court as follows:

1. Adjudging that said taking is for a public purpose, is necessary, and is authorized by law; and

2. It be further adjudged that the County of Ramsey is entitled to take and hold such property for the public use pursuant to the Notice of Intent to Take Possession, on file with this Court; and

3. Appointing three disinterested commissioners, and at least two alternates, to ascertain and report the amount of damages that will be sustained by the several owners on account of the taking; fixing the time and place of the first meeting of the three commissioners; prescribing their compensation; establishing procedures for the disbursement of funds deposited with the district court; establishing procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein; and requiring the commissioners to file their report with the District Court Administrator within 365 days from the date of the order appointing the commissioners unless said time be further extended by order of the Court; and

4. For such other and further relief as may be proper and pursuant to law.

Dated: March 10, 2026

JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn (#0222239) Assistant Ramsey County Attorney

Continued from previous page.

360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3014 (Schwahn)

scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us

Attorneys for Petitioner

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The undersigned hereby acknowledges that costs, disbursements, and reasonable attorney and witness fees may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. Section 549.211 to the party against whom the allegations in this pleading are asserted.

/s/ Scott Schwahn

Scott Schwahn

EXHIBIT A

RAMSEY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION B2023-052

Sponsor: Public Works Meeting Date: 4/4/2023

Title: 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program File Number: 2023-120

Background and Rationale:

To qualify for state and federal funding and to proceed with construction projects, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners must approve the Public Works 5-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP is a planning document and funding estimates identified in the TIP are reflected in the county’s Capital Improvements Program Budget. Similar programs have been developed each year since 1988.

The Public Works department, annually, prepares the TIP using a collaborative process whereby the county solicits projects and input from area municipalities. Project inclusion in the TIP is based on a cooperative dialogue with municipal and state partners, along with technical analysis and consideration of funding opportunities. While funding limits will continue to challenge program delivery, communication and engagement with municipal partners ensures local needs and priorities are examined and addressed to the extent possible.

Projects included in the TIP are also looked at through the lens of the Ramsey County All Abilities Transportation Network policy, which prioritizes the most vulnerable users (i.e. pedestrians, bicyclists, people with disabilities, etc.) first.

The design, construction, and right-of-way costs identified in the TIP are estimates based on best practices in the industry. The funding landscape for transportation projects can be volatile and the ultimate delivery of the TIP is dependent on future funding levels. Partnering on projects with area communities, bordering counties, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and other state agencies will continue to be a critical way for Ramsey County to get the most from available funds.

Recommendation:

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners resolved to:

1. Adopt the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program.

2. Authorize the County Engineer to prepare plans and agreements for all projects identified in the Transportation Improvement Program, and to issue solicitations in accordance with County policies and procedures and the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s list of “Pre-Qualified Vendors by Work Type”.

3. Authorize the County Surveyor to execute Right of Way Plats and Certificate of Surveys for Highway projects that require the determination of existing right of way for the delineation and /or acquisition of property, for planning studies or disposition of excess county property.

4. Authorize the County Manager to enter into contracts and agreements, and execute change orders and amendments to contracts, supplemental agreements, and agreements related to the expenditure of Transportation Improvement Program Project Funds utilizing County State Aid, Federal, State, and participating funding associated with the construction of the approved projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program or a previously approved Transportation Improvement Program in accordance with the county’s procurement policies and procedures.

5. Authorize the County Engineer and County Attorney to acquire temporary easements, permanent easements, fee title, and enter into Limited Use Permits with the State of Minnesota for projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, by negotiation or condemnation.

6. Authorize the Public Works Director to approve negotiated settlements for up to $100,000 over the county’s appraised value per parcel for temporary and permanent easements and fee title.

7. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute purchase agreements, settlements, closing documents, Limited Use Permits, and other related real estate documentation associated with County Board approved acquisitions of real property.

8. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute cooperative agreements and maintenance agreements with cities, counties, the state, and other governmental agencies for their participation in projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program.

9. Authorize temporary cash loans from the County General Fund to the Road and Bridge Capital Improvement Program fund and the Wheelage Tax fund for costs of projects listed in the 2023 -2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, and for maintenance project expenditures occurring before bond or wheelage tax proceeds are received pending receipt of Federal, County State Aid Highway, state and participating funds.

10. Authorize the Public Works Director to submit grant applications for state and federal funding for projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program.

11. Authorize the County Manager to accept grants and execute grant agreements agreeing to the grant terms and conditions for the grant award. For grants that so require, the county agrees to be responsible for any additional amount by which the cost exceeds the county’s construction cost estimate and will return to the grantor any grant amount appropriated for the project but not utilized for the project under the terms of the grant agreement.

12. Authorize the County Manager to issue letters of support in place of an official Ramsey County Board Resolution for constituent cities’ grant applications.

A motion to approve was made by Commissioner McGuire, seconded by Commissioner Reinhardt. Motion passed.

Aye: - 7: Frethem, MatasCastillo, McGuire, Moran, Ortega, Reinhardt, and Xiong

By: Mee Cheng, Chief Clerk - County Board I, Jason Yang, Interim Chief Clerk - County Board, duly appointed and qualified for Ramsey County, Minnesota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution B2023-052, passed by the Board of Commissioners on 04/04/2023

Attest: Jason Yang, Chief Clerk - County Board Date Certified: 2/25/2025

EXHIBIT B

PARCEL 8

(0 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922420016)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 8, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-42-0016 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55117 - Abstract

PARCEL 10 (1370 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922420026)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 10, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles and the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-42-0026 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 389958 and 579140

ADDRESS: 1370 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55117

PARCEL 12 (1336 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922420023)

PERMANENT RIGHT-OF-WAY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Parcel 12, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 12, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-42-0023 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 540978

ADDRESS: 1336 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55117

PARCEL 15 (A & B)

(0 NORPAC ROAD– PID 192922430027)

PERMANENT RIGHT-OF-WAY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Parcel 15, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 15A and Temporary Easement Parcel 15B, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-43-0027 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Norpac Road, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 55 FEE TITLE DESCRIPTION

Parcel 1: (ABSTRACT PROPERTY)

Lot 9, Block 1, Parker and Bailey’s Out Lots, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. AND

Lot “C” except that triangular portion thereof lying North of a West extension of the North line of Lot “D” and all of Lot “D” except all that thereof which lies East of a line running parallel with and 26 feet distant West (measured at right angles) from the West line of Cortland Street (aka Jackson Street) as now laid out and established in the City of St. Paul, all being in Soo Line Plat Number 3, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota.

EXCEPT:

That part of the West 80 feet of Lot “C” Soo Line Plat Number 3, lying between the North right-of-way line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a 45 foot radius, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue and 147.74 feet West of the West line of Jackson Street; That part of Lot “C”, except the West 80 feet thereof, Soo Line Plat Number 3, lying between the North right-of-way line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a radius of 45 feet, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue, and 147.74 feet West of the West line of Jackson Street.

Parcel 2: (TORRENS PROPERTY)

Lot E, Soo Line Plat Number 3, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota.

AND

Lot F, Soo Line Plat Number 3, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota, except that part lying between the south right-ofway line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a 45-foot radius, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue and 147.74 feet west of the west line of Jackson Street.

AND

Lot 6, Block 1, Dawson’s Fourth Addition to St. Paul, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota, except that part lying between the south right-of-way line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a 45 foot radius, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue and 147.74 feet west of the west line of Jackson Street.

PIN: 19-29-22-34-0044 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s) 515780

ADDRESS: 1237 Jackson Street, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 56

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 56, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-34-0006 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Jackson Street, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 57

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 57, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-34-0053 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Unassigned, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 63 (80 ARLINGTON AVENUE EAST – PID 192922310005) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 63, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-31-0005 – Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 587643

ADDRESS: 80 Arlington Avenue East, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 65 (1497 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922240042) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across those parts of Lots 7 through 12 inclusive, Block 19, and Lots 1 through 13 inclusive, Block 20, together with the vacated Nebraska Street (platted as Carry Street) accruing thereto, all in GURNEY HIGHLAND PARK, according to the recorded plat thereof and on file in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the most southerly corner of said Lot 13, Block 20; thence North 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds West, assumed bearing, along the westerly right of way line of Jackson Street, a distance of 571.0 feet;

feet; thence North 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds East, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 3.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 51.0 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds West, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 3.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance

of way line, a distance of 108.7 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds West, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 1.0 foot; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly

PIN: 19-29-22-24-0042 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 660873

ADDRESS: 1497 Jackson Street, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 78 (96 WHEELOCK PARKWAY– PID 192922210046) TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Over, under and across the east 3.0 feet of the north 30.0 feet of the south 60.0 feet and the east 6.0 feet of the south 30.0 feet of the following described property: The east 60 feet of Lots 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 AND 12, Block 8, GURNEY HIGHLAND PARK, according to the recorded plat thereof and on file in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota. PIN: 19-29-22-21-0046 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 96 Wheelock Parkway East, Saint Paul MN 55117

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 18, 25 and April 1, 2026.

CLASSIFIEDS

369

Want to Buy

WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs No fuss Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys H ouses: 844/*978*0683

Deadline for Classified Line and display ads Thursday 4pm 651-407-1250 classified@presspubs. com

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

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Joan Burth

Passed away March 1, 2026. Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, April 9 at 11 a.m. at SAINT MARY OF THE LAKE CATHOLIC CHURCH, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake with visitation one hour prior. Interment to follow at St. Mary of the Lake Cemetery. Arrangements MuellerMemorial. com 651-429-4944.

Beverly Mae Friendt

Beverly Friendt, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026 with her daughter Linda Franklin at her side. Bev leaves behind 3 other children, 14 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.

Beverly Was born August 21, 1945. She will be missed greatly! R.I.P MOM! Service will be held at St. Jude of the Lake. On April 8, 2026. Starting 10:00 am to 1: 30 pm. There will be food served after the service, at the church.

Denise Ann (Larson) LaRock

Passed away Feb. 28, 2026. Memorial service 11 a.m., Friday April 10, 2026 at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake, MN. Visitation 1 hour prior at 10am, lunch and fellowship following service. Private interment at Union Cemetery, White Bear Lake. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944 www.muellermemorial.com

Helen L. Lindholm

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OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race, co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75

Helen Lorraine Lindholm (Atkinson) (April 17, 1945 - Feb 26, 2026), age 80. Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, of White Bear Lake, MN, currently Ormond Beach, FL. Passed away with family at her side, following complications of multiple end stage chronic ailments, which she confronted with her typical strength and resolve.

Preceded in death by parents: father Arlo Atkinson, mother Ruth (Blowers) Wright and step-father Vern Wright, sisters Carol Atkinson and Julie Knutson, cat Allie.

Survived by husband, Richard (Dick) Lindholm, son Doug Lindholm, daughter Anne (Lindholm) Nitti, grandchildren Ryan, Jennifer and Andrew Nitti, Turner and Tommy Lindholm, and great grandson Hudson Nitti (Ryan and Dayna Nitti), brother Paul Atkinson (Denise), several cousins, nephews, nieces.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and caregivers at Halifax and Advent Hospitals, Halifax Hospice and Solaris Nursing home for the care and comfort they provided to my wife/our Mom/grandma, and our family.

Helen led an active, adventure filled life, along side of husband of 59 1/2 years Dick. Raising, loving, supporting, and cheerleadering her kids and grandkids with school and sports, running The Trike Shop along with Dick, traveling across the country and abroad whether it was on trikes or motorhome. She will be remembered for her love of gardening, flowers and decorating their home for each season and holiday, and the small thoughtful details with family traditions.

Funeral arrangements will be held at home in Florida with loved ones.

18

dollars, you’d be frustrated by the DHS surge this winter and look for organizations that might help make things better, such as the Safe and Stable Communities Coalition.

Sheryl Bolstad White Bear Lake

Churches bear some responsibility

The New York Times recently reported that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has invoked a sense of divine purpose to justify U.S. military action. That claim should concern anyone who believes faith should not be used to sanctify violence and that military power must be justified by accountability. This issue is not abstract. Three weeks ago, I was devastated to see the face of my former classmate from White Bear Lake High School, Nicole Hoff Amor, on the front page of The New York Times. She was killed in Kuwait amid the war in Iran. Her loss is devastating, and it is a permanent human cost that reaches into our community. What makes this even harder to reconcile is that the Hegseth family attended Eagle Brook Church — the same church where the memorial service for Nicole Hoff Amor took place. When a prominent public figure invokes Christianity to justify war, the institutions that helped shape his moral world view cannot remain silent. Churches have a responsibility to address this directly. What does it mean when faith is used to frame military action as divinely

CHURCH BRIEF

sanctioned? Is this what the church teaches, or is this a distortion of its values? Silence, in this case, is not neutrality. If churches are to claim moral authority in people’s lives, they must also accept moral accountability when that authority is invoked in ways that have life-and-death consequences. I believe they owe their congregations, and the broader community, a clear and public response.

Laura Cremin Orinda, California

More thoughts on tariffs, free trade

I appreciate Larry Mahoney’s “Opinion on tariffs.” I have been trying to learn as much as possible since the issue has occupied us upon Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

I concur that tariffs are a consumption tax, similar to a value-added tax. In a true “free trade” environment, all parties would enjoy the benefits of specialization of labor (Adam Smith, “The Wealth of Nations”). And Henry Hazlitt (“Economics in One Lesson”) states that, within true “free trade,” the imposition of a tariff would not bring any net gain but would shift money to a protected (or subsidized) industry at the expense of others.

However, what we have had is not “free trade.”

Other countries have tariffs on American goods. There are also national subsidies of certain industries and a measure of currency manipulation thrown in.

From the list I saw, for ex -

Field trip to see premiere of comedy ‘Birthday Candles’

This month, Redeemer Primetime invites community members to travel to the Sidekick Theatre in

ample, Madagascar had the highest tariff, at 93%.

This has led to a hollowing out of American industry, stressing the middle class, and in some cases has created national security issues (such as with medicine and electronics components).

So the present administration is seeking to reindustrialize. They’ve obtained financial commitments to that effect. This will hopefully strengthen our financial base, revitalize the middle class and reduce strategic vulnerabilities.

And secondly, they are seeking to encourage trading partners to lower their barriers to American goods, using principles published by the Richman brothers in their book, “Balanced Trade.” To that end, the administration is imposing a tariff that is in many cases about half what the trading partner is imposing on American goods.

Space doesn’t permit discussing John Dickinson’s letters from a farmer and his influence on tariffs in the Constitution, nor of the exercise of the emergency powers acts being utilized presently. Nor can we discuss the question, “Who pays what tax?” I merely wished to share a portion of what I’ve encountered as I’ve sashayed through the issue from various angles.

Thanks again to Mr. Mahoney for his contribution.

James

Nash White Bear Lake

Fire prevention efforts matter

The recent loss of the Pierce/Hinrichs family in

Bloomington to see the production of “Birthday Candles,” a story of a woman and the people in her life as she celebrates 90 years of birthdays. The new play was recently performed on Broadway.

White Bear Lake Rotary ACADEMIC ACHIEVER

Zewdie

Rotary Matters wblrotary1@comcast.net

White Bear Lake is heartbreaking beyond words. A mother and her children lost in a house fire is the kind of tragedy that stops a community in its tracks. My deepest condolences go out to all who knew and loved them.

As a retired police officer who spent a portion of my career working midnight patrol, I’ve seen firsthand how these fires often occur — frequently in the coldest months of the year, in the middle of the night, when families are asleep and furnaces are working hardest. Back then, we were trained that if we came upon a house fire, we got as close as possible with lights and sirens, doing anything we could to alert those inside. Seconds mattered.

Moments like this also cause us to reflect — not only on what happened, but on what has been done over the years to prevent such tragedies. Prevention can be difficult to measure. We rarely know which lives were saved or which disasters were avoided.

But in White Bear Lake, I believe we can say with some confidence that prevention efforts have made a real difference.

Decades ago, under the leadership of Chiefs Gordy Vadnais and Tim Vadnais, along with the dedicated members of the White Bear Lake Fire Department, there was a strong and consistent push to install smoke detectors in homes throughout the community. Not just encouragement — but action. Detectors were provided, installed and maintained, often at no cost, with batteries replaced year after year.

A bus will depart Redeemer Lutheran Church at 10:25 a.m. April 16 and will return around 3 p.m. Registration is $85 and includes the play, bus and lunch. Those interested can sign up by

OBITUARIES CONTINUED

Isaac Emerson Morey Northwood

White Bear Lake Area High School

Mariam has distinguished herself as the Top Academic Achiever for the 10th grade, earning the highest weighted GPA in her class through consistent dedication and hard work. Mariam's teachers described her as a wonderful presence in the classroom bringing a positive energy to each day and approaching her studies with focus and determination. Beyond academics, Mariam is actively involved in both Nordic Ski and Cross Country, demonstrating her strong work ethic and ability to balance multiple commitments. Known for her kindness and commitment, Mariam is not only an exceptional student but also a valued member of the school community.

Sponsored by Rod and Nancy Oakes

Those efforts matter. In my time on the street, it was not unusual to see at least one serious residential fire each winter season. Yet in recent decades, events like this have been far less common. While we can never say with certainty what was prevented, it is reasonable to believe that these sustained efforts in fire prevention — particularly the widespread use of working smoke detectors — have saved lives. If there is anything we can take from this terrible loss, it is a renewed reminder of how critical those simple devices are. Smoke detectors, properly installed and maintained, provide the earliest warning when every second counts. Let this tragedy reinforce what many in public safety have long known: prevention works, even if its success is often invisible.

James

Response to DunningKruger letter

Someone needs to check the facts related to Trump's pardon of J6er's. The writer stated, “pardoned them all, even though they were convicted by a jury of their peers.” This is not true. Many were being held in jail awaiting trial and being denied bail by the Biden courts. Yes, Trump did what Biden did: he pardoned people that should have had their day in court. Same thing President Autopen did.

April 12 by calling the church at 651-429-5411, registering online at redeemerwhitebear.org/primetime, or stopping by the church welcome desk. Redeemer is located at 3770 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake.

Of White Bear Lake, died March 5, 2026, at the age of 20. Isaac grew up in White Bear Lake, enjoying the many parks, paths, lake activities, and especially the playgrounds that this lakeside community offers, developing many close friends. He was a wearer of hats, tree climber; and player of games: board games, computer games, outdoor games, and making up his own games. He was curious about nature, art, history, and exploring new things, especially with his two older brothers, cousins and friends. He loved being a kid. He was a happy camper and loved adventures; camping, BWCA trips, canoeing, backpacking and scuba diving. He traveled to Norway, Sweden, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Florida Keys, New Mexico, California and the Olympic Peninsula. He loved to hike, climb, ski, sled, tube, bike, play lava monster, frisbee golf, and Ultimate Frisbee; playing on White Bear Lake’s Varsity Ultimate Team through high school, as Captain for 3 years. Isaac was active in Scouts, signing up for every activity he could, attending Tomahawk Scout Camp, Philmont and Sea Base, with 3 full summers living

in a tent as camp staff, which he loved. He also delivered the White Bear Press for years, first helping his Grampy and older brother, and later worked at Best Buy and Chipotle. He earned Eagle Scout rank in Troop 402; his Eagle Project restored Veteran’s graves at Roselawn Cemetery, the final resting place of his paternal grandparents, Betty and Al Morey. Isaac loved being a grandkid to his four grandparents who lived in White Bear Lake, enjoying the parades, building sand castles, having picnics and ice cream at Cup n Cone. He helped his maternal grandparents, Norma and Jim Mengel, as they transitioned from this life.

Isaac’s silliness, kindness and laughter brought joy to all those around him, including his parents John and Mary (Mengel), his brothers Ben and Jonah, his girlfriend Evey, his cats Millie, Theo and WALL-E, his large extended family, and many friends. He was so loved that we are all shocked and saddened by his sudden death.

Please reach out for support if you are struggling in any way, have concerns about your own mental health, or are concerned for another. Call the Crisis Lifeline at 988 to connect to a trained crisis counselor waiting to help 24/7, or text “Help” to 988. Support is free and confidential.

A celebration of Isaac’s life is scheduled for April 11, 11 a.m., at White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church, 328 Maple St., Mahtomedi, MN. Bring memories of Isaac to share during the service and luncheon afterwards. Mueller Memorial, White Bear Lake, www.muellermemorial.com 651-429-4944.

SPORTS PREVIEWS SPRING 2026

Coming off a state Class 3A championship season, Mahtomedi returns five allconference players and 11 lettermen. The Zephyrs were 21-7 and tied for second in the Metro East.

“We are currently optimistic about our team's ability offensively,” coach Rob Garry assessed. “We should have a solid defense and are hoping our pitching develops.”

Mahtomedi has fielded 11 state tournament teams since 2014, including three champions and two runners-up, so aspirations are always high.

The returning regulars are Peyton Erickson (pitcher), Connor Finn (pitcher/infield), Alex Haase (outfield), Cameron Hentsch (outfield), Cody Loida (outfield/pitcher), Jake Reubish (infield), Peyton Whitbeck (catcher), Gavin Bifulk (pitcher/infield), Isaac Iten (infield), Frank Schwieters (infield, outfield)l and Luke Torgrude (outfield). Getting all-conference or honorable mentions were Finn, Loida, Iten, Whitbeck and Reubish.

The goals, Garry said, are to “Get better, learn from mistakes, capitalize on our experience, be competitive at all times, and support the mission of the program.”

First 3 games:

Monday, April 6, North St. Paul, 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, at Two Rivers, 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 10, at Orono, 4:30 p.m.

Mahtomedi

and will be more consistent and disciplined,” coach Matt Robinson said. “Last year we were 7-14. I do believe we will be better than that this year.”

Returning starters are Alex Pawluk (shortstop, second bae), Ava Sheppeck (catcher), Lexi Burg (third & second base), Maya Dahl (outfield, utility), Kristen Johnson (first base, outfield), Sydney DeFore (pitcher, utility) and Sammy Pramal (first base, outfield) “This is a group of players who really enjoy playing softball and with each other,” Robinson said.

First 3 games: Thursday, April 2, Tartan, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, at Simley, 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, at Holy Angels 4:30 p.m.

Mahtomedi is the defending Metro East champion. They also won three invitationals last year and placed fourth in the section meet.

The Zephyrs have a new coach, Jordan Hawkinson, a math teacher who played for Chisago Lakes and Gustavus Adolphus, and was an assistant coach at Gustavus.

Malik Washington, a junior, is a returning all-conference player. Other returning lettermen are senior Mark Graff, junior Brooks Ashfield and sophomore Leo Miller. Also vying for varsity spots are junior Sean O’Connor; sophomores Chase Swanson, Vinny Redpath and Tommy Boe; and eighth-grader Peyton Riddering.

A dozen players from last year’s 10-7 team that placed third in the Metro East is back to try to move up a couple notches this year.

Coach Ben Kula said the team’s strength is depth.

“We lost some of our top players from last year, but we have 12 players coming back with varsity experience who will ensure we remain competitive down to the bottom of our lineup.”

The lettermen are seniors Eli Hendrickson, Kento Kedrowski and Collin Carlson; juniors Van Karle, Ethan Stout, Gannon Hamen, Reese Nelson and Emmett See; freshmen Jonathan Palmquist and Sebastian Naf; and eighth-graders Tyler Chesak and Elias Barnes.

There are also promising seventh-graders, Kula said, who will be on JV and compete for varsity time.

“I look for the team to continue to compete for a conference championship and a deep section tournament run,” Kula stated.

First 3 meets:

Tuesday, April 7, at Forest Lake, 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 9, Simley, 4 p.m.

Saturday,

“We have around 40 players going out. There will be a lot of competition to make the team, whether it be varsity or junior varsity, each week,” Hawkinson said. Hawkinson said team goals are winning conference again, winning at least one invitational and being a contender for a state trip. And, he said, “to grow as a team and individuals. Striving to build an environment that allows us to push one another.”

First 3 meets: Wednesday, April 8, Hudson Invitational, 11 a.m. Monday, April 13, Hastings Invitational, 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 21, conference at Emerald Green, TBD

SPORTS PREVIEWS SPRING 2026

Six starters return from a team that went 4-1 in the Metro East and 8-7 overall, highlighted by an overtime win in the section against Gentry Academy. Those six are seniors Maggie Duea (attack), Brooklyn Kragness (midfield), Payton Mielke (attack), Alexia Tempelis (midfield) and Aspen Tillges (defense), and sophomore Olivia Sowada (attack).

“Our returning players are focused, competitive and ready to take this season to the next level,” coach Ann Burns stated. “Every year our ultimate goal is to make it to the state tournament. With hard work, commitment to team and working together this group can do it.”

Additional returning varsity players are seniors Keely Bohm (mid), Gabby Hernandez (defense), Kallie Kolbet (defense) and Sylvie Lavigne (attack); and sophomores Brooke Berg (mid), Lizzy Churchill (mid), Vanessa Rogosheske (mid) and Ashlee Schrankler (attack).

First 3 games:

Wednesday, April 15, at Farmington, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 18, Roseville Area, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, April 23, at Hastings, 7 p.m.

Mahtomedi has a nice run of success going. The last three Zephyr teams were Section 4AAA champs. In 2025 they placed seventh at state and second in the Metro East. Three returning all-conference players are seniors Lexie McGrane and Lily Carlson and junior Reagan Juhl. Another returning starer is eighth-grader Rory Juhl. McGrane and Juhl went to the state tournament.

Ready to vie for varsity spots are junior Sailor Carlson, sophomore Grace Moua, and eighth-graders Stella Hawkinson, Teagan Slagle and Faith Moua. Matt Huss, Zephyrs coach, listed several positives for the program. “Our top three players have played in a total of 13 state tournaments,” he noted. “We have a record

After one week of a full team practice, Jodie Tester-Hastings, head coach for both the boys an girls, reported: “The coaches are so excited about the talent and skills we are seeing.”

That starts with a defending state champion in senior high-jumper Andrew Russell. Other returning state qualifiers are sophomore Xiabao Liang (200 dash, 4x100 and 4x200); sophomore Elizabeth Driscoll (4x400); senior Eliah McCormick (third place in high jump); junior Eric Daafour (long jump); and junior Natalie Jackson (discus).

“With one of our best seasons in 2025, our young team is looking forward to another great season and to continue to build on individual strengths,” the coach said.

First 3 meets;

Tuesday, March 31, tri at St. Thomas Academy, 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 9, quad at Simley, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 14, Mahtomedi Invitational, 3:30 p.m.

It’s largely a start-over year for Mahtomedi as their 2025 team, which was 10-5 overall and conference runner-up, had 16 seniors, ten of them starters.

Returning starters relied upon to lead are senior midfielder Seth Erickson, junior long-stick mid James Theuninck and sophomore defender Owen Eklund. Erickson and Theuninck are captains.

Coach Mike Narow expects sophomore goalie Koen Venis and “the rest of our athletic defensemen” to be a solid unit. He also anticipates multiple threats in transition, good face-off play, and a good team unity.

“We expect to compete with the best for the section championship at year’s end,” Narow said.

First 3 games:

Saturday, April 11, Blaine, noon

Wednesday, April 15, Farmington, 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 18, Wayzata, noon

39 players in our program. We have a great program relationship with Oak Glen Golf Course.”

“The program has great support from school administration. The Cossack Foundation has sponsored our players with great community support. We have great students and members of the Mahtomedi community. It is a pleasure to be able to coach this team.”

Team goals, Huss said, are to win conference in both varsity and JV, win the section, and place in the top six at state.

First 3 meets: Thursday, April 16, at Hastings, 3 p.m. Monday, April 20, White Bear Yacht Club Invitational, noon Tuesday, April 21. Conference at Goodrich Golf Club, noon

In the first year of girls club flag football, Mahtomedi stormed to a 13-0 record and won the state tournament in 2025. Nine of 13 players graduated, but coach Nick Sullivan thinks they’ll field another strong team.

“We are super excited about the talent we have this year,” said Sullivan. “Our program has expanded to a varsity, JV, and two sub-JV teams. One of the more exciting things is the large number of freshmen we had join this year. I have always said how amazed I am at the talent of our female athletes here at Mahtomedi. Our program future looks bright.”

Returning players are Tami Akintola, Sophia Boberg, and captain Haley Hohenstein. Senior add-ons include Neven Leopold and Kayla Poirier from the state champion soccer team, and Sahar Ramaley and Louisa Tarnowski from the volleyball team the placed fifth at state. “Our obvious team goal is to get back to state and win the title again,” Sullivan said. “This game goes beyond the basic skills; it requires a competitive mindset and I think that is one of the strengths of this year's group in all levels, not just varsity.”

The flag football league has doubled in size this year with some neighboring schools joining, which is one class league, not separated by school size.

The season opener will be April 26 with games against Forest Lake and White Bear Lake at White Bear Lake.

No Kings protest in White Bear Lake

Displaying a variety of messages and costumes, hundreds of local residents recently gathered along Highway 61 in downtown White Lake to participate in a No Kings protest. The protest, a followup to similar events held in June and October of 2025, was one of several that occurred around the state and thousands around the country to voice opposition to a number of the current administration’s policies and actions. The peaceful protesters appeared to receive mostly positive horn honks, messages and hand gestures from the passing motorists. The Indivisible event was hosted locally by the “Grassroots White Bear” organization.

Xcel Energy holds public hearings for new gas rates

At the beginning of 2026, Xcel Energy asked the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to approve an increase in natural gas rates. The requested increase is approximately 8.2%, or approximately $63.4 million. On average, the proposed final rate change would increase the monthly bill for a typical residential electric customer by $7.11, or 8.7%.

Administrative Law Judge Kimberly Middendorf will hold six in-person public hearings and two virtual public hearings between April 27 and May 6, 2026, so customers have an opportunity to comment on the request.

For information and the public hearing schedule can be found online at tinyurl. com/4yw6ct9z. If you have questions about the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission review process or need assistance submitting comments, contact the Commission’s Consumer Affairs Office at 651-296-0406 or consumer. puc@state.mn.us.

Conversation on voting rights

White Bear for Democracy will host a community conversation with civil rights Attorney Joshua Newville from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 7. The event, which offers strategies for citizen groups to proactively support free and fair elections, will be held at St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, 2175 First Street, White Bear Lake. Topics to be discussed include: what community members can do to support and protect free and fair elections; ensuring Minnesota maintains high voteer participation and strong eelection systems; preventing intimidation at polling places; lessons learned from other states; and the actions citizens and organizations can take at the local level to strengthen democratic participation ahead of the 2026 elections. The event is relevant to all community members who support open elections to all citizens eligible to vote, regardless of political ideology.

Marketfest seeking artwork contest entries

The Marketfest Committee is seeking entries of original art for use on its 2026 Marketfest promotional poster and T-shirts. The winner will receive $100, recognition in the White Bear Press and, on opening night of Marketfest, a copy of the final 2026 Marketfest poster and T-shirt. Preference will be given to bright, colorful designs.

Artwork submissions must:

• Be original artwork created with traditional media (marker, paint, crayon or pencil) or original computer graphics. (AI / ClipArt will not be accepted.)

• Represent the unique style and imagery of Marketfest in downtown White Bear Lake (think Marketfestspecific).

• Be acceptable to display on posters and T-shirts.

• Not include any text. (Promotional text may be added to the final artwork.)

Days. The weekend festival will shift to “one big party” on Saturday, Aug. 15. That means the parade will be at 4 p.m. on Saturday. The city is now accepting registrations for the parade. For more details, or to register, visit

Participants must be K-12 students who are residents of White Bear Lake or in the White Bear School District 624. Entries will be judged by the Marketfest Committee, and the winner will be notified by email in May.

The artwork, or a photo of the original artwork, should be placed on a white 8 1/2 by 11 sheet of paper and in a plastic sleeve. Don’t forget to print your name, phone number and email on the back of your artwork. Submissions are due by April 3 and can be turned in at Eat!@ Banning and 5th or emailed to info@ marketfestwbl.com. More information can be found at www.marketfestwbl. com/artwork-contest.

trail monument

The city of White Bear Lake has begun the process of replacing a trail monument and light fixture that was damaged by a car over the winter. The monument is located at the southeast corner of Highway 61 and Lake Avenue. Public Works Superintendent Mark Meyer explained that the 3-foot-tall

TTED

Area resident Diane Urbanski recently witnessed this beautiful spring sunrise at Matoska Park on her way to work. — Diane Urbanski

The White Bear Lake Lions Club hosted its 76th annual show March 26-28 at White Bear Lake Area High School’s Original Theater. The show was a satirical mashup of

5. White Bear Lake Firefighters sharpen their operating skills on the new engine at Ramsey County Beach Sunday, March 29. — Fred Ames, contributed