White Bear Press

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP: County H2 trail project rolls

Community in mourning

Community salutes soldier

The community continues to grieve the

Tight-knit community suffers unimaginable loss

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

A community already aching now finds itself grieving again as friends, family, neighbors and community members try to make sense of the back-toback losses of MSG Nicole Amor and Jessi (Pierce)

Hinrichs and her three children, Hudson, Cayden and Avery. Hinrichs, 37, graduated from Mahtomedi High School (MHS) in 2006, and Hudson and Cayden attended Wildwood Elementary School.

Organizations, residents band together post-Operation Metro Surge

BY ERIK SUCHY CONTRIBUTING WRITER

In the wake of Operation Metro Surge, a wave of apprehension has swept through the nation. Immigrants live in fear of being forcibly detained while others, such as journalists, worry their reporting will leave them vulnerable to direct attacks and fierce censorship from immigration enforcement. In both Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake, organizations, teachers and residents have gathered post-operation to provide comfort and figure out what can be done after the storm. “Over the last few months, I’ve been inspired by everyone who has formed or joined groups to support their neighbors through small acts of kindness,” said Vadnais Heights Mayor Mike Krachmer. “As a culture, we have an opportunity to recognize the value of all of our neighbors. We are

all essential to the community as we work for the common good.”

Cindi Swenson, who teaches English and multilingual language arts at White Bear Lake Area High School, said the effects of the operation have left her work environment marked by anxiety. “As an educator, my job is to foster an environment where students feel safe to grow, learn and imagine a future for themselves. This winter, that environment was dismantled by a climate of fear that extended far beyond the four walls of my classroom.”

According to Swenson, one of her former students, along with several coworkers, was detained by ICE while working at a construction job. The student, despite having no criminal history, was held for six weeks before being released on $20,000 bail and instructed to continue his work permit renewal. However, Swenson said that despite his release, he

faces a crushing new reality: “He could be picked up again at any moment. He’s now forced to choose — stay in hiding or risk going back to jail. That means more lost income for his family, more bail money being prepared, and less freedom.”

While the number of agents in the Metro Area has decreased noticeably, Vadnais Heights resident/ Community Action Network member Jessie Lamb noted that it is still higher than at the height of the surge in Chicago. “Three thousand of our neighbors in the Twin Cities were taken; most of them do not have a criminal record. We have journalists currently facing criminal charges, and our community has been traumatized. People are living without their loved ones.”

Lamb said that, while the future remains uncertain about whether another surge will occur,

District provides update on Elementary Dual Spanish Immersion Program

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

District staff say the Dual Spanish Immersion Program at Matoska International and Otter Lake elementaries is off to a great start and should see high participation again next school year.

Assistant director of educational equity and achievement Ayan Ibrahim, Matoska International principal John Leininger and Otter Lake Elementary Principal Ang Nelson recently provided an update on the program at a school board meeting.

“We got off to a really great start. We have a great foundation to start with,” Leininger said.

In the fall, both schools offered two kindergarten sections. The immersion program is designed to serve both Spanish-speaking and non-Spanish-speaking students

together in a bilingual environment that values the contributions of every student and family.

Leininger explained that one of the concerns for the program early on was whether the district would be able to staff the program. “Staffing is always a challenge, and as we were staffing for immersion, what we discovered is a lot of people want to come and work in White Bear Lake. They love community, our students and really wanted to be a part of what we were doing here.”

Nelson said the program is building a strong foundation of biliteracy skills.

“If you came into either one of our schools, what you would find in our classrooms is really truly remarkable,” she said. “When families were first signing up for the program, I think there were

some thoughts that the teacher would say it in Spanish and then repeat it in English … It is truly in Spanish all day long, and students are completely following along; they can ask their teacher in English and their teacher can answer in Spanish, and they understand what they are saying.”

Both Leininger and

Nelson said the program has received a positive response from participating families. Many of the participating families have already joined the school’s respective parent teacher organizations.

“Our family and community engagement has been exciting. Right from the beginning, we had parents who wanted to

be involved and volunteer in our classrooms,” Leininger said. “They want to be involved in our community, in our schools and know what is happening.”

Nelson said she guesses that 100% of the students currently in the program this year will do it again next year in the first grade.

“What we are seeing is that they are so happy that we have (this program) and people are excited to look into next year,” Nelson said. “There is a lot of interest … Parents couldn’t be happier, and their students are loving to learn at school.”

School Board Member Deb Sharpee Beloyed wanted to know whether students enrolled in the program are needing more interventions than students in the same age group who are not in the program. Nelson responded, “It is really average. It

is very similar to what we see in English-speaking classrooms. A lot of students came into immersion at a fairly high level.”

School Board Member Kathleen Daniels asked whether students would be able to enroll in the program in first grade if they didn’t participate in kindergarten. Nelson explained that it would be possible, but that it would be very difficult as the years go on. For example, if a student tried to enroll in the program in fourth grade, it would be very difficult.

School Board Member Jessica Ellison wondered what impact the program will have on the district’s staffing as more grades become a part of the program. “The intention is that we are going to continue to add a grade every year, so what does that mean for staffing?” she asked. Leininger and Nelson explained that the district constantly has to make shifts to its staffing every year for various reasons for all programs, this program included.

School Board Member Dan Skaar inquired whether the program has helped to grow the district’s enrollment.

“Right now, I think it is about 50% in the district and 50% open-enrolled. So, I would say in my opinion, it brought in new families that likely would have gone somewhere else. There are other programs near us,” Nelson said.

Leininger added, “The programs that we offer in White Bear Lake not only attract new families, but they keep families (here).”

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Vietnam Veterans Day Sunday March 29

To mark National Vietnam War Veterans Day, VFW Post 1782 will host an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 29, at the VFW, 4496 Lake Ave S.

SOCIAL SECURITY: PREPARING FOR RETIREMENT

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26

Where: White Bear Lake Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave.

Details: Learn when to apply, how to maximize your benefits, and how it may affect a spouse. Free workshop.

Contact: communityservices.isd624.org/adultsseniors/programs

WHITE BEAR LAKE LIONS 76TH ANNUAL SHOW: STAR TREKED

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 26 and Friday, March 27; 2 & 7 p.m. Saturday, March 28

Where: WBLAHS Theater, 5045 Division Ave.

Details: Annual spring fundraiser features dancing, singing, costumes and scripts written and performed by local Lions members. Tickets available through Lions members or online.

Contact: whitebearlions.org/annual-lions-club-show

THANK GOODNESS ITS FOOD

When: 11:15 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 27

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave.

Details: Lunch catered by Donatelli's. Register by March 23.

Contact: communityservices.isd624.org/adultsseniors/programs

BUSINESS BRIEFS

7Brew gears up for fundraiser, opening

7 Brew, located at 935 East County Road E in Vadnais Heights, is getting ready to open its doors to customers.

7 Brew will host Caffeine for a Cause Friday, March 27 through Sunday, March 29 to raise funds for Gillette Children’s Hospital. From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

OPERA JUKEBOX: THE RESIDENT ARTISTS OF THE MN OPERA

When: 2 p.m. Sunday, March 29

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

Details: Interactive concert features favorite selections of opera arias, classical pieces, and standards. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org

EMPOWERED RELIEF

When: 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, March 31

Where: HealthPartners White Bear Lake Clinic, 1430 Highway 96 E.

Details: Two-hour class to learn about pain relief skills and create a personal plan.

Contact: eventbrite.com/e/empowered-relief-athealthpartners-clinic-white-bear-lake-tickets

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

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

on Sunday, customers can drive up for a small drink on the house, and all proceeds raised will be donated to Gillette’s.

Customers are also invited to swing by in between 7 and 11 a.m. and 3 and 6 p.m. Friday, April 3; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 4; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, April 5 for a small drink on the house. Opening day will be Monday, April 6.

For more information, visit https://7brew.com.

F&M Bank employees give back

F&M Bank employees recently presented a check to Northeast Youth & Family Services (NYFS) for $3,266. In 2023, F&M Bank employees established the F&M Bank Employee Charitable Organization Match Program,

EASTER FESTIVAL

When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, March 28

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

Details: Indoor activities include egg hunt, bingo, mini golf, kids craft, cornhole, cupcake decorating, Plinko. Contact: sstwbl.org

Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Tribute to the legace of Johnny Cash. Ticket information online.

Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org

a program in which F&M Bank employees voluntarily donate an amount of their choice with each paycheck. F&M Bank then matches the funds collected, dollar for dollar, up to $5,000.

Last year, F&M Bank team members in Vadnais Heights and Lino Lakes chose Northeast Youth & Family Services, a nonprofit, community-based and traumainformed mental health

and community services organization serving the northeastern Saint Paul suburbs since 1976.

“F&M Bank is dedicated to serving our communities,” said Nate Dunn, president and CEO. “Giving back is both a privilege and a responsibility. I continue to be impressed by the generosity of our team and am proud to support this program.”

Reflecting on a decade at Press

March 24 marks my 10-year anniversary with Press Publications. I honestly cannot believe I’ve been here for a decade. Where does the time go?

I graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth with a bachelor's degree in writing studies (journalism) and Hispanic studies. While I was searching for a journalism job, fun fact, I worked at Black Bear Resort and Casino in Carlton, both at the front desk and in the call center.

Shannon’s Shenanigans

Shannon Granholm

I eventually landed a job as a county staff writer for the Steele County Times in Blooming Prairie. A year later, when the publisher purchased the Dodge County Independent in Kasson, I took on the role of news editor. I learned so much in southern Minnesota, but my goal was always to get back to the metro area. I applied for a staff writer position with Press Publications, and I remember being so impressed when Carter Johnson, the publisher, was willing to drive all the way to Cabela’s (now Bass Pro Shops) in Owatonna for an interview. Thinking back to a phone conversation we had shortly after, I remember Carter telling me the one worry he had about hiring me. He was worried I didn’t have thick enough skin for this job. And he wasn’t wrong. I admitted it then, and I still admit it now; I don’t have very thick skin. Sometimes, I take things way too personally, but in 10 years, I’ve managed to cope and hopefully grow a little thicker skin, even if just a little bit.

When I came to Press Publications in 2016, I began as a staff writer for the Quad Community Press. I eventually became the editor of the Quad Community Press and The Citizen. For approximately four and a half years now I’ve held the title of managing editor. Although my bylines still show up in many of our publications, most of my time is spent on writing for the White Bear Press and The Citizen.

One of the things that has kept me here for a decade is the community journalism aspect of the job. Local newspapers are truly the heartbeat of a town. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of telling truly local stories. I’ve covered it all — development projects, city councils, school boards, community organizations, business anniversaries, elections, churches, events, artists and more.

What I’ve learned is the big stories matter, but sometimes the small ones leave the biggest impression. The feature about a longtime volunteer making an impact in the community, a student achieving something special or a local business owner who has served the community for decades, those are the stories that remind me why local journalism is so important.

This job has allowed me to meet so many incredible people doing amazing things who care about the communities they live in.

Even on the tough days, when I’m reminded that my skin might not be thick enough for this job, it helps to remember what I’m doing matters. What Press Publications does matters. Local newspapers help keep residents informed, connected and engaged with their communities.

Ten years later, I’m still grateful to be part of that mission.

Shannon Granholm is the managing editor at Press Publications.

Providing clarification for Township residents

As I am sure many of you are aware, the new mayor of White Bear Lake expressed her opinion regarding the protracted disagreement over the current fire services contract between White Bear Township, the city of White Bear Lake and several other partners in a column for Press Publications on March 11. The Township has, until this point, chosen to remain respectful of not conducting a media campaign to perpetuate a chosen narrative, but with all due respect, we do feel we need to provide clarifications for our residents.

1. This is a contract dispute between two organizations; nothing more, nothing less, and we are approaching it in that manner.

2. This was a contract developed and devised by the city of White Bear Lake. We believe we are operating within the language of the contract.

3. The two-year notice of intent to terminate the contract is our right within the language. This was done in order to have the opportunity to negotiate terms going forward; again, this was language put forth by the city of

Limited to 350 words.

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

Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications

White Bear Lake.

4. Your fire and ambulance services will be in place during the two-year notice of intent to terminate while we try to reach agreement with the City of White Bear Lake. The actual date of termination would be Dec. 31, 2027.

5. The Township has always been pleased with the level of service from both the fire department and ambulance services.

6. At our budget and levy meetings for the last two years in December, our residents were very clear with our elected officials and staff that we were to exercise our options to secure the most value in ALL of our contracts. For instance, our Community Law Enforcement group is given the opportunity to negotiate our contract with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office annually; these discussions are professional and respectful, and we always reach an accord. This is a dispute over significant dollars that will have a real impact on the financial tax burden of our residents.

7. The mayor’s comments are very pointed in that they paint a picture of the Township being unreasonable and noncommunicative; this could not be further from the truth. There have been three separate occasions over the last two years where staff, elected officials and counsel have met to work through our issues; each time

the outgoing mayor for White Bear Lake City told us all in no uncertain terms, there will be no negotiations.

8. The new mayor was invited to chat with our Board Chair as well as Supervisor Artner; she said she would try to be present to the Board Chair’s invitation but did not show, Supervisor Artner’s invitation was ignored.

9. Our legal Counsel has suggested mediation several times, and for some reason this has not been agreed to?

10. The Township did in fact extend a settlement offer to the city of White Bear Lake, and not surprisingly it was rejected without any alternative suggestions coming from the City of White Bear Lake. The only response from the city was a demand that the Town pay whatever amount the city demands.

All the above statements are indisputable. This Board and our staff take the safety of our residents VERY SERIOUSLY, and this is reflected in our community being one of the safest places to live and work in the entire metro. We will continue to work at a solution with the city of White Bear Lake, but not at the cost of our integrity and existent contractual language.

Town Board Supervisors Ed Prudhon, Steve Ruzek and Beth Artner

GUIDELINES

about the same subject matter will not be published. Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. All letters are subject to editing. Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication.

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

Focusing on accountability, safety, and affordability

The 2026 legislative session is underway, and I’m focused on the issues Minnesotans care about: responsible government, safe communities, and keeping life affordable for working families. One of my top priorities continues to be strengthening oversight of state programs. Two years ago, I introduced legislation to create an independent statewide Office of Inspector General to help detect and prevent fraud in government programs and add another layer of accountability. My bill passed the Senate with strong bipartisan support last year. I remain committed to working with colleagues in the House to get this important reform across the finish line and passed into law.

Everyone in our district deserves to feel safe in our community. In 2023, I carried legislation that delivered $300 million in public safety funding to cities and counties across Minnesota. That investment helped local governments address urgent needs. For example, Lino Lakes paid for firefighter equipment, and White Bear Lake purchased a new ambulance. I will continue pushing for policies that support local public safety needs and help keep property taxes under control.

Legislator

Lingo Heather Gustafson

I also joined local leaders to introduce legislation that supports firefighter pensions in Circle Pines and Centerville, ensuring that those who serve our communities as first responders can retire with the security they earned. Supporting the people who protect our communities is not only the right thing to do – it is essential to maintaining strong and reliable public safety services across Minnesota.

Working families deserve to have their basic needs met, which is why I’m focused on the core supports that help our communities not only get by, but thrive. That includes continued investment in our schools, support for counties that deliver critical human services, and resources for food shelves that help families during difficult times. We’ve delivered on these promises by passing universal school meals, teacher pension reform, and our nation-leading child tax credit – but there’s more that can be done, and I’m committed to that work.

Finally, I’m working with colleagues on policies to better support victims of domestic violence and advance practical strategies to prevent gun violence. These are complex challenges, but they demand thoughtful solutions that protect victims, support communities, and promote safety.

Minnesota has always been strongest when we focus on practical solutions and responsible stewardship of public resources. As your senator, I will continue working to strengthen oversight, support our communities, and deliver results for the hardworking people I represent.

Senator Heather Gustafson represents Centerville, Circle Pines, Lino Lakes, Gem Lake, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake, White Bear Township and Brichwood Village in the State Senate.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Response to Dunning Kruger Effect

I must admit that I never heard of the Dunning Kruger Effect that Mr. Berg referred to in the March 11 edition, so I Googled it and there were many more interpretations of it than the one he chose: “Due to self-awareness, they cannot recognize their own incompetence.” He also mentions the hatred shown toward President Trump. I have never voted for Trump in any of the three times he ran and I have no hatred toward him, but I do have some respect for the position he holds, the U.S. Presidency. I read all of the examples of the Dunning Kruger Effect and never once did I see the word hatred anywhere in the examples.

One of the other examples of the Dunning Kruger Effect I think is more appropriate is by Robert McIntogh and his colleagues: “Stupid people are too stupid to know that they are stupid.” I think that would account for the 35 to 50% of the people who were reported to have stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 and assaulted the police. The rest of the people were there to peacefully protest and just got caught up in the mayhem, and some of them beat the police with their Trump flagpoles. President Trump then pardoned all of them and, in fact, called them “patriots” even though they were convicted by a jury of their peers.

Tom Kapsner White Bear Lake

White Bear Lake Area

Response to letters

This is a response to a few things I read in the March 11 edition of this paper. First, a huge thank you to Carter Johnson and the staff from the White Bear Press who spent time with this year’s Leadership Tomorrow cohort (a program sponsored by the White Bear Lake Area Community Foundation).

I’m a member of this year’s diverse group and am grateful for the opportunity to develop my leadership skills and better understand the needs of our community—and how I can be part of making a difference. Johnson gave the nonprofit a shout-out in his Publisher’s View column, recognizing how important organizations like this are for communities. For me, the word “community” is the key word to how a place functions successfully. For every single person who lives in that place.

And I was very disappointed to read a true letter of vitriol, directed at a large chunk of our community, in the same edition of the paper that mourned the ultimate sacrifice of one of our own. Fallen service member Nicole Amor leaves behind a loving family, young children, and so many friends who will sadly miss her. Celebrating her accomplished life should unite us, but turning the pages of our local paper often discourages me. I know that the Letters page is a sanctuary for free speech—and I’m glad I have the freedom to write this letter. But reading the words written regarding personal opinions about

what’s happening in the world, that “people with limited knowledge or competence in a specific domain greatly overestimate their own expertise. Due to a lack of self-awareness, they cannot recognize their own incompetence.” In my opinion, it was a gratuitous insult that could be turned in anyone’s direction. This is a time when we can offer some grace to those we disagree with—and at the risk of sounding Pollyanna-ish, I’d like to see more civil conversation on the pages of the paper I love to read every week, cover to cover.

Lisa Golden Schroeder Dellwood

Response to ‘No New Wars’

I find it ironic that you continue to demonize President Trump’s decision to take out terrorist regimes and dictators. Many presidents have started wars we had no business being in. President Trump has an exit plan to hit them hard and fast, free the people from these oppressive regimes and dictators. His goal is to give the people back their freedom and elect government that they elect and not government who have been elected in sham elections over and over by the dictators who want to stay in power and control.

We have a deep state here in our own country that has committed treason and crimes against humanity. It is like a big global spider

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

• An indecent exposure and solicitation incident was reported in the 3800 block of Scheuneman Road, Gem Lake March 11.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested on warrants in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road March 11.

• Mail theft was reported in the 3100 block of Glen Oaks Avenue March 11.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3500 block of Rooney Place March 11.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 2100 block of Third Street March 11.

• A Stillwater man was arrested for fourth-degree DWI March 11 after he was found sleeping behind the wheel of a running vehicle in the lanes of traffic at Highway 96 and Highway 61 and was found to be impaired by a combination of alcohol and drugs.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 1900 block of County Road E March 12. Fraud was reported in the 5200 block of Pathways Avenue March 12.

• Harassment was reported in the 4800 block of Peggy Lane March 12.

• A St. Paul woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near White Bear Avenue and South Shore Blvd. March 13.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 3100 block of McKnight Road March 13.

• A St. Paul woman was cited for misdemeanor theft and disorderly conduct following a report of theft of liquor in the 2600 block of County Road E March 13. A White Bear Lake

woman was also cited for disorderly conduct.

• Officers investigated a report of sexual assault in the 3500 block of Century Avenue March 13.

• Officers responded to a barking dog complaint in the 3800 block of Oak Terrace March 13.

• A White Bear Lake resident was arrested on felony charges of domestic assault by strangulation and causing bodily harm after officers responded to a 911 hang-up on Eugene Street March 14.

• A dispute was reported March 14 in the 3500 block of Rooney Place.

• Officers assisted with a vehicle off the road that led to a DWI arrest near County Road E and Labore Road March 14.

• Officers assisted with a verbal dispute in the 4800 block of Stewart Avenue March 15.

• A woman was arrested for domestic assault in the 4600 block of Shady Lane March 15.

• Officers responded to a report of disorderly individuals at a business in the 2600 block of County Road E March 16, one of whom assaulted a staff member.

• Officers responded to a verbal argument in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road March 16.

• Theft was reported in the 3600 block of East County Line Road March 17.

• Damage to property was reported near the 4500 block of Otter Lake Road March 17.

• Officers conducted a missing person investigation in the 2200 block of Ninth Street March 17.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3500 block of Century Avenue March 17.

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:

Mahtomedi

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested a motorist for DWI at 12:53 a.m. Feb. 22 on Hickory Street and Mahtomedi Avenue following a traffic stop for failure to stop at a stop sign. After pulling the vehicle over, deputies initiated standardized field sobriety tests, at which the driver failed. At 2:58 a.m. deputies returned the car keys to the driver’s father.

• A wallet was reported found Feb. 22 in the 1000 block of Ashley Lane near the beach. Deputies contacted the person who found the wallet and then returned it to its owner.

• Deputies were dispatched to the scene of a vehicle that partially went through the ice on White Bear Lake at 7:02 a.m. Feb. 23. They stood by while the male exited his vehicle and was brought to shore without issue. White Bear Lake EMS assessed the patient, and deputies were released from the scene.

• View Road residents on Feb. 23 reported credit card fraud.

• A package was reported stolen from a Wildwood Road apartment building on Feb. 26.

• Deputies assisted the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Feb. 26 on a theft case involving the

Patti Anderson announces she will not seek re-election

State Rep. Patti Anderson (R-Dellwood) has announced that she will not seek reelection in November.

Anderson represents Minnesota House District 33A in Washington County, which encompasses Hugo and parts of Forest Lake.

“Thank you to those who entrusted me with your vote and support. It has been an immense honor to

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 responded Feb. 15 to assist Maplewood Police searching for a suspect wanted for domestic assault. He was located in the 900 block of County Road E East and arrested.

• On Feb. 15, deputies issued a trespass notice to a 51-year-old man who was not welcome at a restaurant in the 1100 block of County Road E East due to disorderly conduct.

• Deputies arrested a 25-year-old Minneapolis man and a 24-yearold man from St. Paul Feb. 16 for theft after they were caught by security at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East after failing to scan several items at the selfcheckout.

Deputies arrested a 50-year-old man from St. Paul Feb. 16 in the 800 block of County Road E East on a felony warrant out of Ramsey County.

• Deputies arrested a 33-yearold man from Byron Feb. 17 for fifth-degree possession of a controlled substance after they responded to a report of a man in a ski mask walking through the parking lot of an orthopedic clinic in the 800 block of County Road E East, looking into vehicles and making people in the area uncomfortable.

Walgreen’s store on Wildwood Road. After arriving at the pharmacy and gathering information about the theft, deputies went across the street to the Aldi’s grocery store and passed on the information to the White Bear Lake Police Department who were with the possible suspect. Deputies stayed on scene providing security until the WBLPD cleared the scene.

• A motorist on Wildwood Road was arrested for driving after revocation at 2:57 a.m. Feb. 27, following a traffic stop for a white light to the rear. The reason the driver was taken into custody as opposed to merely receiving a ticket was due to his many prior convictions for failure to provide proof of insurance.

• A backpack containing miscellaneous items, none of which identified the owner, was reported found Feb. 27 on Long Lake Road.

• A wallet was reported stolen Feb. 27 from a Wildwood Road address.

• Deputies arrested a driver in the 1000 block of Wildwood Road Feb. 28 for undisclosed violations.

Pine Springs

• A motorist on Hilton Trail N. at 66th Street N. was issued a written warning for failing to display license plate lights at 1:49 a.m. Feb. 24.

• A Wisconsin motorist was cited for speeding 79 mph in a 60 mph zone at 1:12 a.m. Feb. 25 on Highway 36 by deputies on stationary patrol, who

interact with so many of you, and to serve as your voice in the state Legislature,” Anderson said. “I am proud of our success in exposing Minnesota’s fraud epidemic, and I am confident that my colleagues will continue to press forward on providing Minnesotans with the transparency and accountability that we all deserve from our state government.”

Anderson will finish her current term, which concludes in January

• Deputies responded Feb. 20 to a report of an assault at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East and spoke with a 24-year-old woman who was sprayed in the face with a chemical irritant after honking her horn at someone in the parking lot.

• A 32-year-old woman from St. Paul was issued a trespass notice and theft citation Feb. 20 after she was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.

• Deputies issued a trespass notice Feb. 21 to a 45-year-old woman after employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East saw her fail to scan several items at the self-checkout and attempt to leave the store.

White Bear Township

• Deputies issued a trespass notice Feb. 18 to a 74-year-old man who attempted to leave a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive without paying for an air freshener pod.

• Deputies responded Feb. 19 to a report of shoplifting at a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive, collected evidence and launched an investigation.

• Deputies took a report that two dugout benches were stolen Feb. 19 from a park in the 1700 block of Highway 96 East. The incident is under investigation.

clocked her vehicle at 79 mph. The vehicle also had no working driver’s side headlight, for which the driver was issued a verbal warning. The driver said she was just trying to get home and had no excuse for her speed.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited for speeding 76 mph in a 60 mph zone at 11:51 p.m. Feb. 26 on eastbound Highway 36 by stationary deputies, who clocked the vehicle on radar after observing it pass another vehicle at a high rate of speed and quickly outdistance the trailing vehicle.

• A westbound motorist was cited at midnight Feb. 27 on Highway 36 over Hilton Trail N. for failure to carry a valid driver’s license and for failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for failing to move over for an emergency vehicle.

• Another westbound motorist was cited at 10:40 a.m. Feb. 27 on Highway 36 at the Hilton Trail flyover for a Ted Foss violation. A state law requires vehicles to move into the left lane to avoid hitting emergency vehicles on the shoulder, after State Trooper Corporal Ted Foss was killed making a traffic stop on I-90 in Lewiston in 2000.

• A fourth westbound motorist was cited for speeding 82 mph on Highway 36 at 11:49 p.m. Feb. 27. After observing the vehicle at a high rate, deputies clocked it at 82 mph in a 60 mph zone. During the stop, the driver said he was just trying to get home.

2027, when new representatives are sworn into office.

District advocates for school meal programs

Minnesota School Nutrition Association (MSNA) members, including Brianna Caverzagie, nutrition services specialist with White Bear Lake Area Schools, recently met with U.S. Rep. Betty McCol -

lum's office to advocate for school meal programs in conjunction with the Legislative Action Conference of the national nonprofit School Nutrition Association March 8-10 in Washington, D.C.   Caverzagie joined 850 school nutrition professionals from around the U.S. urging Congress to increase federal reimbursements for school meal programs, along with funding for equipment, staffing and resources.

web, and they’re all intertwined to keep control and further their agenda of a new world order. The Great Reset, they call it. These politicians are knee deep in supporting cartels, drug trafficking, open borders, bio labs, all on our taxpayer dollars, that they money launder back to themselves to maintain their control. If we don’t take all of these terrorists and dictators out, our way of life will continue to be threatened. We are fortunate to have a Constitution. Unfortunately, we have politicians, who when asked to stand if they believe their priority is to the citizens of the United States and not the illegals, they didn’t stand. Or politicians who don’t want secure elections. That speaks volumes.

Reading in the White Bear Press about the death of Sgt. First Class Nicole M. Amor was very sad. She died fighting for our freedom as well as freedom for others around the world. Something she believed in so strongly she was willing to give her life for it. The next time you want to put our way of life down or take our freedom for granted, I hope you take a minute to honor Nicole and the many soldiers who have given their lives to maintain our freedom that so many seem to take for granted. America is the beacon, and if our light goes out the rest of the world will go dark.

Dionne

Leitschuh

White Bear Township

No responses

I have written to my state House representative, Rep. Elliot Engen, four times in the past 1 1/2 years of living in his district. As a working mom, I don't have time to schedule a meeting at the Capitol. I packed up my two small children to go to a community event "Meet your legislators," to discover he decided to "no-show."

I had not received a response to my emails until last month. I wrote to him about the ICE presence in our community, the direct impact on my family and those I know and asked him for reasonable actions to help. He replied one minute after I sent the email — clearly not reading it. He replied "No" with a video link on X. The video title referred to a "moronic female protester."

In a climate of political violence, with recent killings of Rep. Hortman and Charlie Kirk, it is tone-deaf to be a legislator who is so inflammatory, especially

with his own constituents. The time and place for an argument and to be petty is on the House floor — and his "reply" wasn't an actual substantive response or argument. I am his constituent — I am left feeling disenfranchised and feeling like I cannot go to my representative with my concerns. He seems more interested in hot-button culture war issues instead of constituents' concerns. His response shows how he lacks the ability to be professional and civil — and I have talked to many others in the district who have had similar experiences, unfortunately.

You represent the entire district of 36A, not just those you align with politically. The office you hold demands more from you. When a concerned constituent reaches out to you, even when they don't agree with your political views, you owe it to that person to respond in a manner becoming of that office. You should be thanking us for reaching out. Instead, you are acting like an internet troll and going after big headlines rather than connecting and representing your constituents. The district deserves a better class of individual as their representative, Rep. Engen. Do Better.

Abbie Rivard-Courneya White Bear Township

Hateful insults

In his letter to the editor, Jim Berg called people with hatred toward Trump “incompetent” and unaware of their incompetence. He doesn’t describe how he determined that those people feel actual hate toward the president, so that’s an assumption or exaggeration. They more likely hate much of what Trump says and does. So, Mr. Berg insults them because they disagree with his own politics and expresses his own hatred toward them. At best, that’s hypocritical, at worst it’s spreading division and hatred of his own design.

Jackie Colaizy Hugo

Hoping more appreciate ‘ink on paper’

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

This is not an entirely anecdotal observation, but the opinion of a 71-yearold newspaper reader. In this disturbing time of AI when I fear we will never know again if anything we see or read

is real, I’m finding more and more I’m a rare newspaper subscriber, getting three “ink on paper” publications a day along with this weekly. What I have noticed as headlines in these papers over the last several months I’m hoping is more than a coincidental renaissance of the younger generations' interest in what can be described as interest in “what-use-to-be’s”.

Here’s a short list of just a few of the headlines and stories I’ve been following:

“Gen Z’s  (14-29 years old) are returning to the movie theaters,” “Gen Z’s are driving new traffic and life back to long-suffering shopping malls,” “Gen Z’s are embracing traditional Christian faiths, joining and attending brickand-mortar churches,” “The first time since 1983 vinyl record sales exceed the billion dollar mark,” “Gen Z and Millennials (born 1981-1996) are taking on their Grandma’s hobbies of crocheting, knitting, gardening and baking.”

The struggling iconic Pizza Hut’s most successful recent business venture has been to open its classic 1980’s full menu and sit-down restaurants with their original ’80’s look of red-roofed buildings, triangle windows and red vinyl button-tucked booths. I’m hoping this is a positive trend as we are yearning for what is real, tangible and something we can hold in hand and experience. We have become a culture where everything happening in our lives is on a screen. I’m hoping this trend will continue and it will include “ink on paper” newspaper news. It may be just a personal pleasure of mine, but I hope the Gen Z’s will pick up the paper and hopefully carry on as newspaper readers. I don’t care to read “AI-generated” news stories from some chatbot on a screen. Please continue to give me reports experienced and written by real people and reported on newsprint.

Dennis Larson White Bear Lake

Thoughts on borders

Is it wrong for a country to have borders? Can a nation exist without borders? The word "order" is in the word “border.”

Susan Grace White Bear Lake

Opinion on tariffs

I applaud the White Bear Press for controversy covered in letters to the

editor. Now, on tariffs: I think that many people do not understand tariffs. I am not at all sure that Donald Trump understands tariffs, or perhaps he just sees them differently than I do.

In 1989 (37 years ago) I founded Asia Direct Resource, an international product-sourcing business with operations in China and around Asia. So, I have been working with tariffs for 37 years and I have some understanding of tariffs.

Fundamentally, a tariff is a consumption tax on U.S. consumers. PERIOD. The purpose of tariffs is to increase the cost of items imported from another country and to make the U.S. a better, more competitive source for those products. The problem is that the U.S. is not really a manufacturing country, so if tariffs are imposed on clothing or wine or automobiles, all that happens is that cost goes up for U.S. consumers. If you like Volkswagen, as I do, import tariffs on automobiles increase my cost and I will likely look at a Japanese car. Unfortunately, U.S. automakers still do not compete favorably in quality and dependability with Japanese cars. Or German cars.

Theoretically, tariffs could replace income tax. In this case, those consuming more (buying more) would pay the bulk of taxes; therefore, it’s a consumption tax.

People still would buy products made in other countries, so at the end of the day it is the U.S. consumer who feels and pays the tariff, NOT the exporting country, like China. And of course, reciprocal tariffs hurt U.S. businesses. So, I ask: where is the benefit of tariffs?

Of course, when the U.S. imposes tariffs on other countries like China, that other country will likely impose reciprocal tariffs on the U.S., and so a trade war ensues and there is likely no winner. For me personally, I am an advocate of free trade — no tariffs, or at least minimal tariffs. This is best for all, in my opinion.

Now, a prediction: in April, President Trump will travel to China and meet with Xi Jinping. I predict that at that meeting, Trump will get very favorable trade terms with China. In return, the U.S. will walk away from Taiwan militarily. We will continue to supply Taiwan with weapons, but we will not get our military involved in any “situation.”

City undergoes routine inspection, project on well

The city recently completed a routine inspection and maintenance project on Well No. 1. The project included pulling the pump, inspecting it and making necessary item replacements or repairs as needed.   Public Works Director Paul Kauppi said the city has four active wells

and performs the project on a four-year rotating basis. “We try to do these projects in the spring before we see higher summer water usage to

Weekly Outlook

Weather Tidbits

Frank Watson

help prevent a well from going down during these periods or having a well offline to do this maintenance,” he explained.

to you by WeathermanWatson.com Any sign of the previous week’s snowstorm is gone. The most talked about weather topic this past week was the record warmth on Saturday, March 21. I recorded a record high of 78º which shattered my station record of 64º set back in 2012. The NWS MSP also set a record of 79º, breaking the old record of 78º from 1938. If you recall the March of 2012, it was extraordinarily warm. Not just a 1-or-2 day event like we recently experienced. We set a handful of records over a two-week period. It led to the trees and apple blossoms opening. We then had a big drop in temperatures, killing many buds and blossoms. The leaf count on trees was way down and the apple orchards were devastated. Hopefully we’ll have cooler temperatures before we’re safely past our last frost. Ice update: Adam Moore reports 14” of ice thickness on Bald Eagle Lake with a honeycomb layer forming.

Sponsoredby

Bear Lake Rotary

Rotary Matters wblrotary1@comcast.net

Oneka Elementary is proud to honor fifth grader Jackson Koch as our Academic Achiever! Jackson consistently goes above and beyond in everything he does and works for excellence in all academic areas. His motivation to learn, dedication to putting in maximum effort, and his drive to always find new challenges leads to his success. Jackson is a leader and role model. Jackson plays baseball through the White Bear Baseball Association. He likes to bike around with his friends as well as play football and tag. He loves Dave’s hot chicken, Clemson, and college football. His focus, determination, and positive attitude will lead Jackson to great things!

Sponsored by Craig McNulty

COMMUNITY

BRIEFS

Watershed district offers shoreline restoration grants

The Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) offers a variety of shoreline restoration grants for raingardens, erosion control and more. The RCWD water quality grant program provides an opportunity for individuals and organizations to actively participate in improving the water quality within the district. This program funds projects that implement best management practices to address water quality challenges within the watershed. Successful applicants can receive up to $10,000 for an eligible project. For more information, visit www.ricecreek.org/ grants/water-quality-grants.

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.

OBITUARIES

Darwin Reedy

In Loving Memory of Darwin Reedy. November 25, 1949 –March 14, 2026

With deep sadness, we share the passing of Darwin “Dar” Reedy, who left us on March 14, 2026, at the age of 76. He was a devoted husband, step -father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose warmth, generosity, and curiosity shaped every life he touched.

Dar and his wife, Geri, shared 38 years of marriage filled with art, travel, family, and a shared appreciation for beauty in all its forms. Their life together was rich with adventure, creativity, and unwavering partnership.

Born in 1949 and raised in North Oaks, Dar’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. In his teens, Dar, along with his friends, found creative ways to make money, from starting a painting company to other more colorful endeavors—an early glimpse of the drive and vision that would define his career. In 1973, he co -founded Burnet Realty, guiding it to become one of the largest and most respected brokerages in the nation. His natural ability to connect with and mentor people, paired with his business acumen and vision, left a lasting mark on the real estate community.

Art, however, was Dar’s lifelong passion. After retiring from real estate, he devoted himself fully to the world of art by founding The DRG Collection gallery. He was on the Board of Trustees of the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) from 1995 – 2011, holding various positions, including Vice Chair. Dar and Geri generously welcomed curators and institutions to their home, sharing their private collection with enthusiasm and pride. Together, they established The Reedy Gallery at the MIA and donated numerous contemporary and African

Wayne Anthony Lammers

81, of White Bear Lake, passed away February 11, 2026. Born July 17, 1944, in Pipestone, MN, Wayne built a life defined by steady hands and strong opinions. After earning his machinist license, he spent more than 38 years as an airline mechanic at Northwest Airlines, taking pride in the careful work that kept planes safely in the sky. A proud union member of the IAM, he valued hard work and loyalty. In retirement, Wayne could often be found in his workshop crafting furniture, a hobby he enjoyed until injury set his tools aside. He treasured simple pleasures – time with family, chatting with friends and neighbors over coffee, and the companionship of his beloved dog, Lucy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Ruth; brothers Clay and Mark; brother-in-law Keith; and niece Katie. He is survived by his former wife, Rita LaCasse; daughters Beth (Travis) Bruns and Erica (Jesse) Lammers; grandchildren Magnus and Evelyn; brother Larry (Mary Fran) Lammers; sisters Jo Ellen Boyer and Teri (Sam) Lammers. Memorial service Sunday, April 19th, 2026, at Jimmy’s on County Rd E in Vadnais Heights. Please send memorials to Twin Cities Union Gospel Mission.

Helen Fletcher

1928 - 2026. Age 97, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband of 76 years Joseph, her infant daughter Nancy Jo, and her daughter-in-law Vicki Fletcher.

Helen is survived by her children: Greg (Debra), Mike (Debbie), Keith (Carol), Joan Bisek, Jean Auger (Michael), and Nancy Lowell. She was also blessed with 16 grandchildren and 23 greatgrandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on March 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at St. John’s the Evangelist, 380 Little Canada Road. Visitation at the Church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

works. They also founded The Reedy Gallery at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, which continues to host seasonal fine arts exhibitions.

Dar believed deeply in giving back. He served on many boards over the years, as a reflection of his love of community and the Arts. He was Commissioner of the Metropolitan Airports Commission in 1997, on the Minnesota Humanities Board of Trustees in the early 2000s, and on the Board for the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, transitioning to Honorary Trustee in 2010. He was a champion of The Guthrie, The Ordway and The Walker Art Institute. A passionate golfer, he served for many years on the Board of White Bear Yacht Club and was Commodore in 1998. He combined philanthropy and sport by bringing the Burnet Senior Classic professional golf tournament to Minnesota—an event that has since grown into the 3M Championship.

Among Dar’s greatest joys were his friendships and sharing the world with those he loved. A proud graduate of St. Paul Academy in 1968, he treasured the relationships and life-long friendships he made there. With his family and friends, he planned unforgettable journeys with meticulous care, creating memories filled with laughter, discovery, and connection. These adventures remain treasured gifts to his family and friends.

Darwin is survived by his loving wife, Geri; step - children Jeff (Mary), Peter (Terri), Jimmy (Tiffany), and Marty (Jo) Rathmanner; grandchildren Martha, Maxwell, Mariah, Annabel, Mac, Chrissy, Will, and Sam Rathmanner; five great-g randchildren; sister Beth Hanson (Gary); niece Libby Anderson and nephew Craig Hanson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Mary Reedy.

As we say goodbye to our beloved Dar, we honor a life defined by generosity, curiosity, and devotion. His legacy lives on in the communities he enriched, the art he championed, and the friends and family he cherished.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his honor may be made to Caring and Sharing Hands or Children’s Hospital Association - St. Paul.

Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944

Richard “Rick” Smith, Jr.

Age 82, of White Bear Lake, passed away on March 1, 2026 after a courageous six-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Survived by wife, Debra; sons, Scott (Kristin) and Brad (Katie); grandchildren, Jordan, Meg, Bayler & Cooper. He was the owner of Smith Companies Construction of White Bear Lake, a 1962 graduate of White Bear Lake High School, and a 1966 graduate of Macalester College. He was a proud member of the U.S. Air Force; serving from 1967-1972. A celebration of Rick’s life will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, April 25th, 2026 at Bradshaw, 4600 Greenhaven Drive, White Bear Lake, MN. A visitation begins one hour prior. Donations can be made to U of M Foundation/Pancreatic Cancer Research, or donors choice. “Dare to dream the impossible dream” Bradshaw 651-407-8300.

WB SENIOR CENTERREGISTRATION REQUIRED651-653-3121

The White Bear Area Senior Center has weekly activities and classes. Register at 651653-3121 or visit: District Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave, WBL (entrance on Cranbrook). All classes at the Senior Center unless otherwise indicated.

55+ Driver Safety, $35: In Person: Apr 21, 5-9pm | May 27, 5-9pm | Online: Apr 28, 1-5pm Chair Yoga: Mon, Apr 6-27, 10-10:45am, $30 Instagram 101: Snap, Share & Stay Connected: Wed, Apr 1, 10-11:30am, $5

Draft Your Own Will: Wed, Apr 1 & 15, 6-7:30pm, $64

Lunch & Learn @ the Funeral Home: Mon, Apr 6, 11:30am-1pm, $5

Helping Seniors Cope with Grief & Loss: Tue, Apr 7, 10-11:30am, $5

Chalk Pastels: Wed, Apr 8, 10am-12pm, $38

7 Steps to Selling Your Home: Thu, Apr 9, 1011:30am, $5 Giving & Estate Planning for Special Need

Beneficiaries: Thu, Apr 9, 6-7:30pm, $30

Zentangle Style Drawing: Thu, Apr 16, 10am-12pm, $30

Understanding Long Term Care Insurance: Mon, Apr 20, 10-11am, $5 Taxes & the “Widow’s Penalty”: Thu, Apr 23, 6:307:30pm, $5

Hummingbird Acrylic Painting: Thu, Apr 30, 10am12pm, $40

Senior Housing Day Fri, Apr 3, 10AM - 2 PM, Senior Center Explore local senior housing options, aging in place services, and resources for a smoother transition.

FootCare Clinic: 30-minute appointment, $55, Call to schedule: 651-653-3121

Meals on Wheels: Hot or Frozen meals delivered MonFri. Call 651-653-3123 for more information.

DISTRICT EDUCATION CENTER (DEC) 1520 MAHTOMEDI AVE.

All activities are held at the DEC unless otherwise noted.

Mondays: Mahjong - FREE 1-3 pm

Bingo - FREE. Monday, March 30th

Tuesdays: Cribbage - FREE 1-3 pm

Wednesdays: Bridge - FREE 12:30-3:30 pm Thursdays: 500 Cards - FREE 12:30-3 pm Fridays: Games - FREE 12:30-3 pm; BridgeFREE 1-3 pm; Book Club - FREE 2nd Friday, 10-11:30 am

The following requires registration: mahtomedi. ce.eleyo.com or call 651-407-2018

Seated Yoga (55+) - $139. Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 31st-May 14th, 2:15-3 pm Both above are free for SilverSneakers, RenewActive, or Silver&Fit. Write Your Own Will - $60/person. Thursday, April 2nd, 6-8:30 pm

Paint Your Pet - $99/painting with one pet OR $129/painting with two pets. Sunday, May 3rd, 3-5 pm. Registration Deadline: April 13th. History with Kathy Simmer: “We’re Going Down! Shipwrecks on the Great Lakes” - $18.Monday, April 13th 10 am-12pm OR Tuesday, April 13th, 10 am-12 pm.

LYNGBLOMSTEN COMMUNITY SERVICES

For information about any of the resources described below, contact Lisa Brown, MSW, LISW, at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org

Resources for family caregivers. Are you or someone you know seeking support as you care for a person living with memory loss? Lyngblomsten Community Services is here to help you navigate your caregiving journey. We specialize in memory loss support. Contact us to learn more about available community resources, The Gathering group respite, educational opportunities, and support groups. Our trained staff are ready to listen and assist you in taking the next step on your journey.

Dr. Mark Seeley: The Art and Science of Cloud Forms and Cloud Appreciation - $25. Thursday, April 30th, 6:30-7:30 pm Birding 101: A Birdwatching Morning - $10. Saturday, May 2nd, 8-9:15 am. Community Lunch - $12. Tuesday, May 5th, 12-1 pm Lunch menu: Tacos (chicken or beef), beans, rice, chips and salsa, drinks, and dessert from Red Luna Seasons Live music provided by Folk Revival. Registration Deadline: Friday, May 1st at Noon. No refunds will be issued after this date. Forest Bathing Walking Meditation - FREE. Saturday, May 9th, 10-11:15 am

Lino Lakes (6070 Blanchard Blvd., Lino Lakes). Registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

Memory Loss Caregiver Support Group.  Family and friends caring for someone living with memory loss are welcome. A virtual support group meets at 10:30 AM on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. An in-person support group meets at 10:30 AM the 4th Tuesday of each month at Lyngblomsten at

WOOP for Dementia Caregivers is an online program for caregivers to learn a simple, evidence-based strategy called WOOP, which stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan. WOOP helps caregivers focus on what they can control and turn their important wishes into action plans. To learn more about the research behind WOOP and caregivers’ experiences in using it, join us for a WOOP Information Session on Tuesday, April 7, from 4–5 PM. You can also sign up to attend the next WOOP for Dementia Caregivers Group on April 14, 21, and 28 from 4–5 PM.  To register, complete the online form available at www.Lyngblomsten.org/WOOP.

Lyngblomsten Community Services is supported in part by gifts made to the Lyngblomsten Foundation and is funded under an award with Trellis as part of the Older Americans Act

Genevieve Bijold is the city of Birchwood Village’s new part-time administrative assistant.

After many years of service, Phoenix Alternatives Inc. (PAI) Board Chair John Kuhrmeyer is retiring from the organization’s board of directors. Kuhrmeyer has been a steadfast advocate and leader, helping shape PAI into the successful organization it is today. John and his wife Diane are retiring to Utah to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

“John’s leadership has left a permanent mark on PAI,” shared President Mike Miner. “For many years, he has given his time, heart and wisdom to ensure our organization remains strong and mission-focused, today and for years to come.”

Ben Kappelman will be the new board chair. He has served on the board for several years.

“Ben brings both continuity and unique perspective to this role. We are grateful for his leadership and excited for the future ahead,” Miner said.

Ramsey County has named Amelia Cruver chief financial officer (CFO) following a competitive search process that began in December, when Alex Kotze was appointed deputy county manager and chief operations officer.

“We are so excited for Amelia to join the operations team as the next chief financial officer for Ramsey County,” said Kotze. “She brings extensive city and state government experience,

leading budgeting and federal fund management during COVID and civil unrest. She combines deep technical expertise, a strong commitment to public service and proven leadership to strengthen the finance team.”

AFTER THE STORM:

As CFO, Cruver will lead the daily operations of the county’s finance department, including budget preparation, accounting and financial reporting, payroll, investment and debt management and purchasing and contracting.

Cruver brings 20 years of experience in program administration, public policy and financial management to Ramsey County. Most recently, she served as finance director for the city of St. Louis Park. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, and a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs.

“I’m motivated by work that improves people’s lives, and I believe how we raise and invest public dollars can either reinforce the status quo or help transform it,” Cruver said. “That’s why I’m excited to join the Ramsey County team and partner with colleagues across the organization to advance financial strategies that expand opportunity, deepen impact and further strengthen the health, safety and well-being of our community.”

Cruver’s first day with Ramsey County will be March 23.

there are several important steps people can take to show support and resilience. “First, don’t stop looking out for each other. Second, get to know each other. Third, support impacted businesses and keep up the work on mutual aid. Folks are having a hard time paying rent and getting food. They may have lost their primary partner in the household and may still be scared to leave their homes. Donate funds if you’re able and support the people who can help ensure we’re getting resources to those who need them.”

At the White Bear Area Food Shelf, Development Manager Amy McMillen said she has seen hope in neighbors helping each other deliver food despite fears about leaving their homes.

“There was one man who wasn’t using the food shelf until this (the surge) happened. One day, he walked in and said, ‘Can I get food here, and can I pick up for my neighbors?’ He came for a couple of weeks, then came with another friend, to pick up for their neighbors. The next week, only two of them came, because one of them had been picked up. The following week, it was just him again, because the other friend had decided to move to Texas; he felt it was safer, (and) that they weren’t going to see the same kind of surge here in Minnesota. That man is still picking up for families but has not been bringing back more folks. Many people are leaving, and with a lot of uncertainty about where they’re headed.”

McMillen added that because of the outpouring of support for the immigrant community, the food shelf has had to turn down new volunteer requests. However, the need to support mutual aid and rental assistance, as well as funding for the food shelf, remains ongoing.

“This community is incredible; we have volunteers calling every day and, for the first time, we have to say no. However, we do need funds because everything we’ve done has been outside our budget. It’s the community’s generosity that allows us to pivot and respond immediately. The biggest thing is to keep having conversations and support mutual aid and rental assistance. That could likely be the next major crisis.”

There are many resources for those who want to support immigrants in the metro area. To report federal activity and support immigrants’ rights, residents can call the Monarca Hotline at 612-441-2881 or the Communities Organizing Latine Power and

Action (COPAL) hotline at 612-255-3112. Food donations to the White Bear Area Food Shelf can be dropped off at the shelf’s on-site bins from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Friday at 1884 Whitaker St. Financial donations can be made online at www.whitebearfoodshelf.org. For those in need of rental assistance, donations can be made to Solid Ground at www. solidgroundmn.org/donate/.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP NOTES

• Supervisor Ed Prudhon opened the White Bear Township Board meeting with a statement recognizing the loss of White Bear Lake resident Nicole Amor, who was recently killed in the U.S. conflict with Iran. He extended condolences to Amor’s friends and families and requested that the community keep her in their thoughts.

• Trent Bernstein and Dennis DeLoach were reappointed to threeyear terms on the Utility Commission. The terms will expire April 30, 2029.

• The township is now home to a new flail mower, purchased for $8,875 and paid for by the town’s equipment fund.

• Rifle salutes were

approved as a potential activity at the Wall That Heals event that will take place at Polar Lakes Park this summer.

• A solicitor license was approved for Moen’s Mowing and Landscaping company for 30 days.

• White Bear Township adopted a resolution approving the two-party joint powers agreement (JPA) between White Bear Township and the city of North Oaks, contingent on the passage of the same agreement by the North Oaks City Council. Town Administrator Patrick Christopherson stated that North Oaks LLC has agreed to install all water meters by the deadline in the JPA.

“They have incentive to get this completed now,” said Town Administrator Patrick Christopherson. “I think we’re comfortable we’re going to be covered in this JPA.”

• Township staff read a statement responding to a recent editorial written by White Bear Lake City Council members and published in the White Bear Press. The statement is published on page 4 of this week’s edition. Several residents appeared at the meeting to express concern about safety pertaining to fire services. Township Supervisor Beth Artner assured them no residents would “get left in the lurch.”

• Bryan DeSmet

and Diane Longville were reappointed to three-year terms as White Bear Lake Conservation District board members.

• The board approved the purchase of a front-end loader with a Metal Pless plow. The trade-in value of the township’s existing, 17-year-old front-end loader was determined to be $60,750, reducing the purchase price of the new vehicle to $172,039.

The White Bear Township Board next meets at 7 p.m. Monday, April 6, at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road.

Jackie Bussjaeger

Carrier of the Month Patrick Kruse

March 2026

Congratulations to Patrick! He has been an excellent carrier for 2 years. Thank you for all your hard work!

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

CITY OF GRANT

2026 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENTS

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Grant, Minnesota will meet at the Grant Town Hall, located at 8380 Kimbro Avenue N., Grant, Minnesota, at 6:30 P.M. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 to consider the proposed assessment for street improvements on Great Oak Trail N. and 66th Street N. known collectively as the 2026 Street Improvements Project. The street improvements project will consist of in-place reconstruction of the road base using the existing pavement and aggregate materials with new bituminous surface, and replacement of culverts. This Notice is given pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 429.011 to 429.111. Adoption by the City Council of the proposed assessment may occur at the hearing.

The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office. The total amount of the proposed assessment is $279,404.34.

Written or oral objections will be considered at the hearing. Any property owner may appear at the hearing and present an objection.

No appeal to District Court may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a written objection signed by the affected property owner is filed with the City Clerk prior to the hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The council may, upon such notice, consider any objection to the amount of a proposed individual assessment at an adjourned meeting, upon further notice to the affected property owner(s) as it deems advisable.

An owner may appeal an assessment to District Court pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 429.081 by serving notice of the appeal upon the Mayor or City Clerk of the city within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment and filing such notice with the District Court within ten days after service upon the Mayor or City Clerk.

Kristina Handt – Interim City Clerk

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 18 and 25, 2026. OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

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

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

North Star Medical

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

1330 Highway 96 E Ste 102

White Bear Lake MN, 55110

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

North Star Medical PLLC

1330 Highway 96 E Ste 102

White Bear Lake MN, 55110

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: March 12, 2026

Signed: Bianca Bianchi-Rossi

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 18 and 25, 2026. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-209 NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In re the Estate of Dennis R. Wright, Decedent

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 from 2:30 p.m. until 2:45 p.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination of heirship, and for the appointment of Robert D. Wright, whose address is 648 Cleveland Avenue Southwest, New Brighton, Minnesota, 55112, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

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

Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled. NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law

and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

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

BY THE COURT:

Tracey Ames, District Court Administrator

BY: Michael Syverud, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: March 6, 2026

Attorney for Petitioner

Melanie Boes, Esq.

Attorney No. 033599X

Pluto Boes Legal 2633 Innsbruck Drive, Suite A New Brighton, MN 55112

mboes@plutoboeslegal.com

Phone: (612) 787-7820 Fax: (507) 247-5868

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 18 and 25, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA CLEMENCY REVIEW COMMITTEE

LEGAL NOTICE

The following individuals who were convicted of crimes in Ramsey County have applied for relief from the Clemency Review Commission (CRC). The applications will be considered on May 1, 2026, commencing at 8:30am at 1450 Energy Park Drive, St. Paul, MN:

John Smith

1st degree aggravated robbery; Convicted: 1/7/2011

Charles Sokpa-Anku

Medical assistance fraud; Convicted: 7/3/2014

Mohamed Aboubaker

Give peace officer false name; Convicted: 5/20/2013

Mohamed Aboubaker

5th degree drug possession; Convicted: 9/30/2014

Shuntay Thomas

Possess pistol/assault weapon; Convicted: 12/18/2014

Mohamed Aboubaker

5th degree drug possession; Convicted: 10/22/2015

Que Lee

Crime committed for benefit of a gang; Convicted: 9/14/2005

Abdisalan Gure

Check forgery; Convicted: 7/12/2007

Que Lee

Kidnapping; Convicted: 8/3/2000

Fong Vang

Receiving stolen property; Convicted: 7/23/1998

Abdisalan Gure

Theft; Convicted: 11/19/2007

Que Lee

Theft of motor vehicle; Convicted: 8/3/2000

Mohamed Aboubaker

Receive stolen property; Convicted: 8/18/2004

Blong Xiong

Crime committed for benefit of a gang; Convicted: 9/16/2004

Ma Vang

Theft wrongfully obtaining assistance; Convicted: 6/29/2005

Fong Vang

Aid/abet damage to property; Convicted: 7/31/1998

Blong Xiong

Providing false name/DOB to police; Convicted 1/3/2003

Shuntay Thomas Domestic assault; Convicted: 1/17/2008

Victims have a right to submit a statement at this meeting. For more information, contact the CRC at 651-539-2610.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 25, 2026.

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-208

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

In re the Estate of Rodney Henry Torkelson, Decedent

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 from 2:45 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication

Blvd NW, Montgomery MN 56069, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

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

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

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice. Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT:

Tracey Ames, District Court Administrator

BY: Michael Syverud, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: March 9, 2026

Self Represented Petitioner:

Steven Rodney Torkelson 1108 Sunset Blvd NW Montgomery, MN 56069

stevetork@gmail.com

Phone: (612) 819-5984

Published two times in the White Bear Press on March 25 and April 1, 2026.

CITY OF BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE ASSESSMENT NOTICE

Important Information Regarding Property Assessments

This may affect your 2027 property taxes

SCHEDULED DATE APRIL 7th, 2026, from 6 pm

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Birchwood Village shall meet on April 7th, 2026, at 6:00 pm at City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether taxable property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the Assessor, and it is to determine whether corrections need to be made.

If you believe the value of the classification of your property is incorrect, please contact your Assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If you are still not satisfied with the valuation or classification after discussing it with your Assessor, you may appear before the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization. The board shall review the valuation, classification, or both if necessary, and shall correct it as needed.

Generally, an appearance before your local board of appeals and equalization is required by law before an appeal can be taken to your county board of appeal and equalization. For more information, call the Washington County Assessor’s office at 651-430-6175.

Given under my hand this 17th day of March, 2026

Therese Bellinger, City Deputy Clerk Published one time in the White Bear Press on March 25, 2026.

CITY OF WILLERNIE WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TITLE 450 AND AMENDMENTS TO EXISTING CODE OF ORDINANCES

SUMMARY PUBLICATION. Copies of the complete Ordinance Title 450 and amendments are on file with the City Clerk for inspection and general distribution during regular office hours or by standard or electronic mail. The following summary is approved by the City Council and shall be published in lieu of publishing the entire ordinances and amendments: An ordinance enacting Willernie Code Title 450 Traffic and Vehicles, and amendments to relevant existing ordinances.

The City has adopted Ordinance Chapter 450 to establish traffic and vehicle regulations for vehicles operating on City public streets with the intent to promote public safety, wellbeing, and convenience,

‘An absolute honor:’ Local dentist reflects on Olympics

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

What is it like to don the red, white and blue of Team USA and compete in the Olympics Games? A White Bear Lake dentist knows.

“It is an absolute honor to represent Team USA,” said Tara Peterson. “The Olympics is unlike any other sporting event. The entire world comes together to watch and celebrate the wins and the loses. People forget their differences and cheer for their team.”

Tara and her older sister Tabitha, both Eagan natives, along with Cory Thiesse of Duluth and Taylor Anderson-Heide of Chaska, form Team Peterson, with Tabitha as the captain.

Team Peterson competed in their second Olympic Games in early February, and this time almost nabbed a medal. They placed fourth in the medal round after going 6-3 in round robin doing 10 days of competition at Cortina, Italy.

“We were so thrilled to qualify for the playoffs and make the medal round,” said Peterson. “We were obviously very sad about losing both the semifinal and the bronze medal game, but that is sport and that is life. You can’t win them all.”

Asked about highlights, she cited their win over Canada in the round robin —  “Apparently that was the first time a USA women’s team had beaten Canada in the Olympics” — along with executing “so many awesome shots” throughout the tournament. A close win over Switzerland got them into the semifinals, after which they lost rematches to the Swiss and to Canada.

“We had an awesome week and beat some incredible teams and had some great games. We are very proud of how we represented our country.”

Peterson is a 2009 graduate Eagan High School, where her sports were golf and cross country, and a 2018 graduate University of Minnesota dental school. She has practiced at Isaacson Gentle Dentistry in White Bear

Lake for six years, living in Shoreview with her husband and a toddler.

The dentist/Olympian had a fan club back home.

“It never gets old when people tell me they were watching and cheering,” she said.  “I know my coworkers and patients were following closely, watching as many games as they could. They all were great fans.”

The fans texted numerous messages, which she didn’t read until after completion. “I turned my phone off when I was competing and went black with social media, which was very freeing!”

Tara has been in curling since she was eight and Tabitha was 10.

“My mom’s friend was a member of the St. Paul Curling Club, and remembered that my grandpa curled back in the day, down there,” she explained. “ She invited the family to try curling.”

The sisters joined the junior program on Saturday mornings and have been pushing stones ever since. Tara is also active in golf, Nordic skiing and biking.

Holding the No. 2 position on the team, Tara throws the second set of stones. Her throws are “a variety of hits and draws, depending on where we are being defense or aggressive that end.” She is one the two main sweepers. Her job is to sweep rocks to the perfect spot and to “judge the rocks to get them to stop where they want them.” Her other job is to “bring the energy.”

At the Olympics, the women watched the luge and Alpine, the other events in their venue. They practiced in Claut — which she described as “a cute small town on the other side of the mountain” which featured gorgeous views. “We obviously enjoyed pizza and pasta while we were there. After competition I was able to enjoy some Italian wine as well.”

Her family toured Venice for a day after the Olympics ended, then flew to Greece for a few days “to decompress and enjoy Europe.”

City approves business licenses for new licensing year

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

WHITE BEAR LAKE

— It’s that time of year when the city renews its annual business licenses. City Code requires that certain business activities in the city be licensed and comply with the terms of the license or associated ordinance. The annual business licensing period is April 1 to March 31.

License updates include:

• Bholenath LLC, dba MGM White Bear Lake, took over ownership of the business from previous owners TLC Liquors LLC and obtained an off-sale liquor license.

• Pezzo White Bear Lake LLC, dba Pizzeria Pezzo, took over ownership of the business from previous owners Pezzo Per Pezzo and obtained on-sale and Sunday liquor licenses.

• MC’s Beartown LLC, dba Beartown, took over ownership of the business from previous owners Sanger LLC and obtained on-sale and Sunday liquor licenses.

• King City LLC, dba King’s City Restaurant, took over ownership of the business from previous owners K & T King City Restaurant Inc. and obtained an on-sale liquor license.

• Bholenath LLC, dba MGM White Bear Lake, took over ownership of the business from previous owners TLC Liquors LLC and obtained a tobacco license.

Each year the police department conducts liquor and tobacco compliance checks. The following establishments failed compliance checks conducted throughout the year and were issued administrative citations:

• American Legion Post 168, dba American Legion –2210 Third Street

• Dockside Water Ski Co., dba Tally’s Dockside – 4441 Lake Avenue

• Say LLC, dba Summit Liquor – 2000 County Road E

• Cellars WHL Inc., dba Cellar’s Wine and Spirits –2675 County Road E

• Sam’s West Inc., dba Sam’s Club Liquor – 1850 Buerkle Road

• The Minnesotan Productions Co., dba The Minnesotan – 2186 Fourth Street

• Pendulum Industries LLC, dba Washington Square Bar & Grill – 4736 Washington Square

• Northern Tier Retail LLC, dba Speedway #4357 –1447 Highway 96 E

• WBL Smoke Shop Inc., dba E-Cig Smoke Shop – 4711 Highway 61

• MNJ Tobacco Inc., dba M&J Tobacco – 4074 White Bear Avenue

The following businesses

received a new massage establishment license:

• Kneading Relief Massage Therapy

• Lux Family Chiropractic

• Serenity Spa Massage (formerly known as Massage Eden)

The following applicants received their massage therapist license for their respective workplaces: Kalyn Lyons at A Little TLC; Yan Liu at Blue Balance Wellness; Kaya Wint at Blue Balance Wellness; Katelynn Tripp at Kneading Relief Massage Therapy; Danijela Krstanovic at Life Spa; Esteban Rubio at Life Spa; Ricardo Torres at Life Spa; Stephen Wilson at Life Spa; Heidi Witzel at Life Spa; Emilie Juliar at Lux Family Chiropractic; QinQin Lu at Serenity Spa Massage; Sun Jingyi at Serenity Spa Massage; Melissa Wright at Naturally Well; Jing Hock at Relax Lounge; Emalee Miller at Sunbear Spa and Salon; Kimberly Moravec at Sunbear Spa and Salon; Tara Steenblock at Sunbear Spa and Salon; Yaowadee Barfuss at The Carlson Clinic; Juan Zhang at The Carlson Clinic; Debra Ohler at Wildwood Chiropractic Center.

Soul Chiropractic and Legacy of Light, and their respective massage therapists, will not be renewing their massage licenses. The following massage therapists will not be renewing their licenses and are no longer working in the city: Tara Steenblock and Danielle Waters from Sunbear Spa & Salon; Yaowadee Barfuss and Juan Zhang at The Carlson Clinic; Tammy Gerber at Naturally Well; Jennifer Couture at Wildwood Chiropractic Center; Alay’zah Reid and Kaya Wint of Blue Balance Wellness; Sierra Benik, Nicole Hallan, Emily Hector, Danijela Krstanovic, Lauren Martinez, Christine Roisen, Esteban Rubio and Ricardo Torres at Life Spa. Guiping Hu, Jing Hock at Relax Lounge and Netnapha Phoosam, Sumitra Yang at Sky Thai Massage have not begun the renewal process and will be subject to all conditions prior to being issued renewed licenses. Failure to renew by March 31 will result in a lapse of license, resulting in having to undergo a new application process. Only one change was made to charitable gambling licenses; the Midwest Ski Otters were issued a license to conduct charitable gambling at Washington Square Bar & Grill.

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

County H2 trail project rolls forward

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

White Bear Township is one step closer to its new walking and recreation trail now that the township board has authorized staff to put the County Road H2 trail project out for bids.

While the long-term plan is to connect Centerville Road to Bald Eagle Boulevard, the 2026 portion of the project will focus on the area between Otter Lake Road and Bald Eagle Boulevard. The project will install a new 8-foot trail and replace an existing trail on Lakeview Avenue with 6-foot sidewalk.

The project will include new drainage structures intended to better control flooding and drainage issues in the neighborhood. As a safety measure, the project will include bright, flashing LED lights at the crosswalks located at Cottage Avenue and Lakeview Avenue.

between June and September.

Town Engineer Larry Poppler said that costs have increased since initial estimates. Currently, the total cost is projected at $1.7 million. He indicated that the township will have a better idea of actual costs once bids are received.

The township has applied for and received $590,000 of funding from Ramsey County for this project. Poppler stated that any additional costs above that amount will be the township’s responsibility.

Once bids are received, Poppler anticipates awarding the contract in May for a construction window

After being presented with draft project designs, Town Supervisor Beth Artner commented that the project does not have as much aesthetic appeal as she would like. “People like to see tree canopy,” she said. “I think the optics are a little rough.”

Town Administrator Patrick Christopherson responded that the design was a result of conversations with residents at the series of public meetings that were held to collect public input on the trail.

Town Supervisor Ruzek added that there was no significant discussion about landscaping.

On a separate note, Ruzek questioned whether the sidewalk between Lakeview Avenue and

Cottage Avenue should be continued at all, since trail users will have to cross to stay on the trail where it moves to the north side of the street at Cottage anyway. He suggested that the board request bids for two different options—one that replaces this trail with new sidewalk, and one that removes it and seeds the area back to a boulevard with no walking corridor.

Poppler said that the Ruzek’s suggestion can be bid as an alternate option.

The funds for the project will come from the park acquisition fund, which has accumulated over time. As a result, this trail project has no direct tax impacts on residents, Ruzek said. The board voted 2-1 to authorize the bidding process; Artner dissented.

Youth hockey teams sent off to state tourney

• The community continues to grieve the loss of Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor of White Bear Lake, who was one of the Army Reserve Officers killed while supporting Operation Epic Fury. In addition to ordering flags fly at half-staff for a week, Mayor Mary Nicklawske opened the last council meeting with a moment of silence in her honor.

“She was more than a soldier in uniform. She was a daughter, a wife, a mother and a friend. We remember her courage, her sacrifice and the ultimate price she paid for our country,” Nicklawske said. “Today, we stand with heavy hearts and deep gratitude. Please join me in a moment of silence to honor Master Sergeant Amor and to support her family.”

• The city will continue its lease agreement with the White Bear Lake Area School District for dedicated locker room and storage space at the Sports Center. In 2018, the city and school district entered into an agreement to host White Bear Lake Varsity Girls Hockey games and practices. As an addendum to that agreement, the district

MAHTOMEDI CITY COUNCIL NOTES

• The Mahtomedi City Council has taken the first step toward realizing the new City Hall/fire station at 800 Stillwater Road. Council unanimously (4-0; Mayor Richard Brainerd was absent and Lilly Melander served as acting mayor) awarded the contract for professional architectural design services and construction support to OPN Architects. In early January, the city issued a request for proposals for the work and received 10 proposals. The selection committee was made up of Council Member Luke Schlegel, City Administrator Scott Neilson, Public Works Director Bob Goebel, Finance Director Scott Schaefer, City Clerk Jerene Rogers, Fire Chief Joel Schmidt and City Planner Hannah Rybak, all of whom reviewed the proposals. The committee chose five finalists to interview.

“We did not pick OPN because they were the low bidder,” Schlegel said. “Their (fee) of $1,190,000 was in line with six other bids of $1.1 or $1.2 million, and we liked other things about them,” he said. OPN has designed many city halls, joint facilities and fire stations in the Midwest. “Thank you from the department for the support with this project. It was a long time coming,” Schmidt said.

• Every year, council appoints residents to serve as advisory commission members for the Environment, Finance, Park and Planning commissions. Each advisory commission is comprised of seven members who serve three-year terms and make recommendations to council. Council reappointed returning commission members and appointed new members following an interview session. The new appointments are:

- Environmental Commission –Christine Ahmann-Maples, Richard Lutz

- Parks Commission – Anna Costello, Nora Slawik

- Planning Commission – Alex Rogosheske, Dan Soler and Tony Chesek

- Finance Commission – Mike

pays a monthly rate for dedicated locker room and storage space. The current monthly rental rate is $1,100, and that is proposed to remain the same for the next two years.

• The city recently entered into an agreement with Washington County for recycling. Under state law, proceeds from tax on solid waste are, in part, made available to cities to conduct recycling and waste reduction programs. A block grant is made available to Washington County from the state of Minnesota, which in turn appropriates a portion to cities on a per-capita basis. The funds are used to help offset the city’s recycling program and collection costs. The expected 2026 funding allocation to the city is $1,842.

• It’s that time of year when the city renews its annual business licenses. (See full story on page 12.)

• The city has adopted a five-year street reconstruction overlay plan and plans to move forward with the issuance of general obligation street reconstruction bonds to fund the 2026 residential pavement management project.

Bromelkamp and Robert Pocrnich

“We appreciate everyone who has stepped forward to serve the community,” said Council Member Jeff Charlesworth.

• Mahtomedi has a curbside recycling program and receives an annual grant from Washington County to support the program and other recycling projects. This year the city will receive $14,845 from the county after council approved the 2026 recycling grant agreement between the city of Mahtomedi and Washington County.

• The St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church, 700 Mahtomedi Avenue, has received the city’s blessing to hold gambling events at its annual Spring Dinner May 2 and at its Mahjong Tournament May 16.

• Council honored city employee Jeff Laue, who has served the city for 20 years.

• In his report, Neilson noted that the annual Board of Review will be held at 5 p.m. April 1 at City Hall. This is a clarifying opportunity for property owners in Mahtomedi with questions about their property’s valuation or classification as presented in the 2026 property tax statements mailed out recently.

• Goebel said that Mahtomedi received 7 inches of snow during the March 15 “blizzard,” during which the plows began their big push at 5 a.m. Sunday morning and didn’t let up until 3 p.m. The plows didn’t want to damage curbs, so they left a little extra snow, knowing that temperatures were forecast to reach the 60-degree mark by the end of the week. Goebel said he would pass on to the crew the many kudos his department received. Council Member Jane Schneeweis said she was in Minneapolis on Monday and couldn’t get through any of their city streets.

The council next meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 7 at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road.

Loretta Harding

Finance Director Kerri Kindsvater explained that the city will pursue general obligation street reconstruction bonds since special assessments are expected to account for less than 20% of the total project costs. The city plans to borrow $1,805,000, which it will repay over 15 years. Approximately $264,500 is expected to be collected via assessments to benefiting property owners. The city will also combine that along with the tax levy to make the annual debt service payment. Kindsvater said the 2027 tax levy would increase by approximately $141,800, which is 0.94% above the 2026 total tax levy.

The council authorized Ehlers to assist in the bond sale and preparation of the official statement for the bond issue. A public hearing for the project was scheduled for March 24.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, at City Hall.

WHITE BEAR CONSERVATION DISTRICT NOTES

• Committee assignments have been made for 2026. They are as follows:

- Lake Education Committee –Meredith Walburg, chair; Shari Salzman-Hankins and Brian Bonin, members

- Lake Utilization Committee –Mark Ganz, chair; Christopher Churchill, vice chair; Mark Wisniewski and Bonin, members

- Lake Quality Committee – Mike Parenteau, chair; Diane Longville and Shelley Dropkin, members

• The board continues to look into the possibility consider hiring a company to place survey markers throughout Commercial Bay to help marina owners know where the ordinary high water level (OHWL) is.

Chair Bryan DeSmet explained that a couple of years ago, the conservation district hired a company to place markers in Commercial Bay, but many of those markers have become difficult to find.

“We have been talking about getting an engineering company to come back and try to establish more visible, permanent markers,” DeSmet said. He added that it would be helpful to have the OHWL points “better memorialized” so they are easier to find.

Churchill put together a draft scope of work for the project and DeSmet suggested that it be refined before final approval, hopefully in April.

“It just needs to be adjusted a little bit,” DeSmet explained.

• The board has approved its contract with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO). Attorney Alan Kantrud shared that the contract is for 240 hours for $12,000. He explained that the RCSO has committed to the same number of patrols as 2025, and will provide 10 hours of “specific targeted patrol” in the Commercial Bay area to check for slip counts, lengths, etc.

Kantrud suggested, and the board agreed, that Kantrud should do the drone monitoring of the area and if a problem arises, it will be turned over to RCSO for citations if appropriate.

“I think it will go smoother if we handle that on the front end,” Kantrud said.

replacement. The board may take action on those replacements at a meeting this spring.

• The Executive Committee has discussed a possible boat rental ordinance. “One of the things we would like to do is try to get a better handle on casual boat rentals that are going on the lake to make sure that those activities that occur are following DNR, Ramsey County and our own rules,” DeSmet said. For this year, the district plans to place a checklist as an advisory item on its website. “We can start with that … see how it goes this summer and then work to upgrade our ordinance to be more in line with that,” DeSmet said.

• The district continues to escrow funds for a future lake management plan. DeSmet noted there will likely be a strategic planning session in the future so the board can identify goals as well as a scope of work for the management plan.

• Administrator Cheri Howe has submitted her letter of resignation, although she plans to stay on through July before retiring. “We will begin the process of replacing Cheri, but it will be difficult,” DeSmet said. This June will mark four years she has been with the district.

• As of last week, the lake level was at 923.02 feet, 2 inches higher than February.

• Tally’s Dockside has received approval of its commercial permit, which is identical to last year, pending approval from the DNR. The permit will allow a total of 64 slips, 50 seasonal boat slips and 14 rental slips. Other approvals included:

- A summer club sailing event permit for the White Bear Lake Yacht Club

- A summer event permit for the Black Bear Yacht Racing Association

- An event permit, with the fee waived, for the White Bear Lake Fireworks Committee

- A temporary water structure permit for a swim area for the Manitou Island Association

• The district is still waiting to hear from Jim Schuster on the amount of trash collected from volunteers during the recent lake cleanup.

• The buoy map for 2026 has been approved. Churchill suggested the district consider creating a map for the winter. “How do we communicate those spots that are problematic every year?” He asked.

Parenteau noted that the county did place “thin ice” signs in those spots. Kantrud pointed out that perhaps those should have been put out earlier in the season before a car went through the ice rather than after. The board plans to discuss the topic further in September.

• The district has both a computer and a laptop that are in need of

• Kantrud reported that ice house removal went smoothly on the lake and there were no citations issued. The RCSO did have to use its hovercraft/jetboat to remove one structure on the lake that wasn’t claimed.

The next White Bear Conservation District meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, at White Bear Lake City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

CLASSIFIEDS

The Public Works Mechanic performs

facilities. For more information see larger ad. Scrap meta l,appliance p/u 651*/329*0815

skilled & semi-skilled maintenance of Township vehicles & equipment along with other duties in the maintenance of roads, public utilities, parks, & Township facilities. Responsibilities include operating & maintaining Township vehicles & heavy equipment, fleet management including preparing recommendations for equipment purchases, & coordinating larger repairs with vendors. This position serves as a visible representative of the Township & often acts as the first point of contact for public inquiries. The role is essential to preserving public assets through timely maintenance & the safe operation of equipment.

Minimum qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent Five years of experience as an equipment mechanic or equivalent combination of education and experience

Class A driver’s license is required or must be obtained within 12 months.

Valid Minnesota Driver’s License

Ability to respond to emergency calls within 1 hour

Anticipated hiring range is $33.32 – $42.51 with licensure bumps

To apply, complete and submit a White Bear Township Employment Application found on whitebeartownship.org/Jobs. aspx. Applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m., Friday, April 10, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Submit completed applications to: White Bear Township, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or via email adminoffices@whitebeartownship.org.

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SEASONAL PUBLIC WORKS POSITION. The City of Hugo is currently accepting applications for seasonal public works employees. These positions are responsible for assisting the public works department in a wide variety of tasks including park, street and utilities maintenance. These positions will exist from May through September and will not exceed 40 hours per week. The rate of pay is $18 per hour. Applicants must have a valid Minnesota driver’s license and be at least 18 years of age. Applications are available at Public Works, 8220 140th St. N., Hugo, MN 55038, 651762-6301 or on the City’s web site at www.ci.hugo.mn.us/employment. Applications must be completed and returned to Public Works or emailed to pw@ci.hugo.mn.us by 4:00 p.m., March 30, 2026.

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School Board adopts consent agenda policy with 6-1 vote

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Some new rules are now in place for removing items from the consent agenda, following the board’s 6-1 vote (School Board Member Dan Skaar dissented) to revise the consent agenda policy (203.6).

The policy discussion arose as part of the district’s routine review of policies and was discussed in detail at the board’s meeting last month. (See “White Bear Lake Area School Board debates changes to consent agenda policy,” White Bear Press, Feb. 18, 2026.)

The consent agenda allows the board to approve a group of routine items, such as meeting minutes and financial reports, in a single vote. In the past, board members could request that an item be removed from the consent agenda for separate discussion. Under the revised policy, a board member seeking to remove an item from the consent agenda would be required to make a motion, receive a second and obtain majority approval from the board.

Skaar said the change to the policy deviates from Robert’s Rules of Order.

• Approximately 20 students attended the Minnesota Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) State Leadership Conference in St. Cloud March 9-11. The conference serves as a key platform for HOSA members to grow their leadership skills, connect with peers and explore the ever-evolving world of health care. Throughout the conference, participants take part in interactive workshops, hands-on sessions and guest lectures led by professionals and educators in the field. From emerging medical technologies to career prep and personal development, the topics are designed to inspire and inform. Students demonstrate their knowledge, skills and creativity in a wide range of health care-related competitive events.

• Forty-four students involved in the WBLAHS Black Student Union are expected to attend the Historically Black Colleges and Universities tour from April 1118. The experience is designed to connect students with colleges, peers, staff and faculty. Students will take part in dynamic guest presentations and immersive opportunities. Throughout the tour, students will engage in guided reflection and journaling to make meaning of their experiences, deepen self-awareness and capture personal growth.

• Approximately 70 students in the high school jazz bands will travel to the University Wisconsin – Eau Claire Jazz Fest April 17-18. The event will offer workshops and clinics along with live performances.

• Ayan Ibrahim, assistant director of educational equity and achievement; John Leininger, Matoska International principal; and Ang Nelson, Otter Lake Elementary principal, provided an update on the Elementary Spanish Dual Immersion Program. (See full story in this week’s issue.)

• The district proposes to issue up to $17,680,000 of facilities maintenance bonds to fund projects included in the district’s

“I think that the revision to bypass Robert’s Rules with our own rules is just another way for the board and the superintendent to limit free speech on those who seek accountability by asking questions about spending,” Skaar said. “I think board governance without accountability is really not governance; it is pretty useless. I think it is small-minded, and it prevents public accountability.”

School Board Member Christina Streiff Oji pointed out that school board members receive the board packets ahead of time and are encouraged to reach out with questions ahead of time. She added that she was supportive of the revisions to the policy.

“We operate as one board. One should not consistently pull random items off of the consent agenda. From my perspective, the agenda items being asked to be pulled from the consent agenda are not important enough or relevant enough to be pulled from the consent agenda and do not need to be discussed separately,” Oji said. “Instead, it appears that items being pulled from the consent agenda are meant to put people on the spot, catch people off guard and are being used in an attempt to discredit our organization and

long-term facilities maintenance (LTFM) plan. The proposed issue will also finance the current refunding of the 2027 through 2032 maturities of the general obligation facilities maintenance bonds, Series 2018A, in the amount of $14,070,000 for a total issuance of $31,750,000. This issuance serves the dual purpose of funding critical LTFM projects and reducing existing debt service costs through the strategic refinancing of existing debt.

Every other year, the district issues LTFM bonds to fund deferred maintenance projects across its multiple sites. The last district LTFM issue was in 2024.

The district is required to approve its LTFM plan annually in July and submit the plan to the Minnesota Department of Education for approval by July 31. The board also approved its 20262029 Achievement and Integration Plan.

• A second reading of School Board Policy 211 (Criminal or Civil Action Against School District, School Board Member, Employee, or Student) is scheduled for the April 13 meeting.

The proposed changes are in the title, and sections I, III and IV. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance about the school district’s position, rights and responsibilities when a civil or criminal action is pending against the school district, a school board member, a school district employee or a student.

• A second reading is also scheduled for School Board Policy 212 (School Board Member Development) and School Board Policy 809 (Naming School Buildings or Facilities) for April 13. No changes are planned for Policy 212, but there are some changes proposed to Policy 809 in in sections III, IV, V, and VI.

The next regular school board meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 13.

Shannon Granholm

those in it.”

School Board Member Kathleen Daniels said she agreed with Oji and clarified that items could still be pulled from the consent agenda. “There is an opportunity to remove items from the consent agenda with a second, so that would mean that other board members, or at least one other board member, would feel that it would be a good point of discussion. So it doesn’t remove the opportunity (for) removing it, it just has to have a second,” she said.

Skaar responded, “Let’s be realistic. I’ve had how many motions seconded here? Maybe two out of 25 or 30.”

Daniels responded, “I think he seeks to obstruct the will of the board by continuing the same comments over and over again at every board meeting.”

The board ultimately approved the revisions to the consent agenda policy. For a copy of the policy, visit www.isd624.org/about/school-board/ meeting-materials.

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

The following students were named to the dean's list or received academic honors at a college or university in Fall 2025:

Bemidji State University: Luke Calbrieth and Elliott Sisterman, both of White Bear Lake.

Georgia Institute of Technology: Jack Allaben of Mahtomedi. Marquette University: Maggie Larson of Dellwood.

Milwaukee School of Engineering: Ryan Malvey of Birchwood; Tyler Christianson of Vadnais Heights.

Minnesota State UniversityMankato: Georgia Gibbs of Dellwood; Emmerson Buckley and Julia Morriem, both of Mahtomedi; Delaney Gunderson and Makenna Holtz, both of Vadnais Heights; Lilah Amon, Chanelle Bell, Lana Bowser, Kate Fuhrman, Austin Hermann, Joe Hulla, Jonah Osteen, Jeremy Kolb, Olivia Landgren, Joseph Marsh, Jonah McCormick, Eli Messerschmidt, Mason Messerschmidt, Brock Moor, Sidney Mullin, Owen Parker, Thomas, Phan, Tyler Schoeberl, Sofia Wigstrom, William Wigstrom, Megan Worms and Oliver Harvieux, all of White Bear Lake.

Minnesota State UniversityMoorhead: Gianna Giandalia and Landon Aanenson, both of White Bear Lake.

Northern Michigan University: Isabella Fontaine of White Bear Lake.

Saint Mary's University: Kendall Rolling of Dellwood.

St. Olaf College: Will Christensen, Ethan Fischer and Kate Heinsch, all of Mahtomedi; Emily Johnson of Vadnais Heights; Molly Vergin of White Bear Lake.

Salve Regina University: Cecelia Bronson of Vadnais Heights.

University of Alabama: Lauren Horning of Mahtomedi.

University of Kansas: Kellen Johnson of White Bear Lake.

University of Minnesota-Duluth: Ainsley Abbott, William Arlandson and Samantha Saenger, all of Mahtomedi; Owen Mead of Pine Springs; Micaela Hovick, Lauren McCulloch and Luke Ridgeway, all of Vadnais Heights; Jillian Ballata, Kyra Hoffman, Grayson Hughes, Julia Lamwers, Amaya Lattimore, Patrick Levins, Rachel Lopez, Andres Nelson and Elena Vlieger, all of White Bear Lake; Katelyn Birkeland of Willernie.

University of Minnesota-Rochester: Evie Karle of Mahtomedi; Josie Haag and Taison Thao, both of White Bear Lake.

University of Nebraska: Addison Hemquist of Vadnais Heights.

University of North Dakota: Monique Jones of Vadnais Heights; Addison Bachmeier, Cami Bachmeier, Laine Graening, Megan Langer and Cora Wahl, all of White Bear Lake.

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire: Mason Hughes of Mahtomedi; Annika Norman and Alexa Strobush, both of White Bear Township; Olivia Balk, Gabe Eberhardt, Bailey Eddicus, Elaine Eddicus, Kayele Grealish and Ben Mclaughlin, all of White Bear Lake.

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay: Rayme Nyembwe of Vadnais Heights.

University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse: Eric Buttke of Dellwood; Sean Crothers, Jake Larson, Grace Newman and Madison Schmitz, all of Mahtomedi; Ella Madson, Madison McCoy and Luke Williams, all of White Bear Lake.

University of Wisconsin-River Falls: Amber Tice and Stephanie Tice, both of Vadnais Heights; Alana Forliti, Amanda Smythe and Annalise Wohlfeil, all of White Bear Lake.

Worcester Polytechnic: Luke Vipond of Mahtomedi.

The following students graduated from a college or university in Fall 2025:

Northern Michigan University: Josephine Taylor of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, nursing. University of Minnesota-Duluth: Jillian Ballata of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, biology; Margaux Iverson of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Arts, integrated elementary and special education; Julia Lamwers of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Arts, childhood nature studies; Patrick Levins of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, earth and environmental science; Andrew Nelson of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, mechanical engineering; Declan McCollow of Willernie, Bachelor of Science, statistics and actuarial science.

University of North Dakota: Jackson Chase-Jacobus of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Business Administration, aviation management, magna cum laude. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire: Erin Lindberg of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Arts, art.

Winona State University: Natalie McCarthy of Mahtomedi, Bachelor of Science, teaching, elementary education; Magnolia Podgorak of Mahtomedi, Bachelor of Science, nursing, summa cum laude.

Liberty Classical basketball team heads to state

The Liberty Classical Academy boys varsity basketball team is continuing on with its success streak by heading to the state tournament on Thursday, March 26. The team will play in the Class A bracket against Red Lake County at 5 p.m. March 26 at the Target Center.

The biggest wins so far this season include wins against Breck, Heritage Christian Academy, Jordan, and Hill-Murray. The team is led by Sam Rupnow (29.2 ppg), Ethan Richter (22.1 ppg), Cruz Triana (15.0 ppg) and Jimmy Youtsey (12.6 ppg). Rupnow also reached a high school career milestone of 2,000 points scored.

White Bear gymnast honored with Sue Nereson Memorial Award

White Bear Lake High School gymnast Olivia Johnson is the recipient of the 2025 Sue Nereson Memorial Award.

The award, presented annually at the banquet, is given to the gymnast that shows enthusiasm, hard work and dedication to the sport. The award is named for Sue Ann Nereson, a White Bear gymnast who died in 1977. Her mother, Joyce Nereson, established the award

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS

BOYS HOCKEY

The Mahtomedi team that placed third in the state tournament had four all-conference picks and four honorable mentions. The Zephyrs were 19-10-2 overall and 5-2-2 in the Metro East. Making all-conference were seniors Cody Loida, Henry Sampair, and Jackson Chesak, and sophomore Vinny Redpath. Chesak and Loida were co-team MVP’s. Honorable mentions went to senior Brayden Fuerst, juniors Will Seevers and Devin O’Donnell and sophomore Brock Gutterman. Other team awards went to Tommy Boe (most improved), Julian Cisek and Blake Loida (hardest workers), Fuerst and Nico Huberty (Ultimate Zephyr), Cael Brummel and Kaden Gagnelius (unsung heroes) and

to keep her daughter’s memory alive in the community. Joyce was on hand to present the award personally for more than 30 years. Her son Bill Nereson presented the award this year on his mother’s behalf.

This year marked the 48th anniversary of the award’s presentation, making it the longest ongoing award of its kind in the school district.

Easton DeZelar (Strelow Memorial). Players with over 20 points (goals-assists-points) were O’Donnell (15-1934), Redpath (16-15-31), Fuerst (9-20-29), Cody Loida (4-24-28), Seevers (16-11-27), and Gutterman (9-13-22). Chesak, the goalie, posted a .918 save percentage and 2.63 goals-against-average. Seevers and Trevor Rogosheske were named captains for next year.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Mahtomedi had two all-conference players, junior guards Grace Prose and Berkley Blaisdell, after a 10-18 season, including 8-6 in Metro East. Getting honorable mentions were junior Delaney Dumermuth, sophomore Ava Sheppeck and eighth-grader Lucy Peer. Prose averaged 20.5 points, 3.9 rebounds

GYMNASTICS

Following are awards for the White Bear Lake team that had a 3-5 conference record, placed first in Section 4AA and eighth in the state meet: Grace Mueller and Harlie Peloquin made the all-Suburban East team, with Taylynne McMahon getting honorable mention. Mueller was named team MVP. Earning allsection recognition were Mueller, Peloquin, McMahon, Maddie Erickson, Madeline Conroy and Mira McQuay. Mueller was all-state on vault. Olivia Johnson got the Sue Nereson award for enthusiasm, dedication.

BOYS BASKETBALL

and 2.6 steals, and has 1,181 career points. She made 87 three-pointers. Blaisdell averaged 11.8 points, 3.7 steals and 4.6 rebounds. Dumermuth averaged 12.1 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.3 steals.

GYMNASTICS

Mahtomedi’s top 10 gymnasts were all on the all-Metro East team after the Zephyrs were unbeaten in the regular season and the conference meet. They are Addi Eitel, Keely Bohm, Lucy Otto, Ruby Greer, Maria Tkachuck, Margo Bruner, Cassia Hartmann, Adele Schroeder, Lily Bush, and Ava DeZelar. Team awards went to Otto for MVP; Eitel and Myla Chafee for most improved; Bush for team spirit; and Greer for unsung hero.

Bruce Strand

Colin Piper capped a stellar three-year tenure in the starting lineup, picking up his second allconference honor and joining the program’s thousand-point club with a final total of 1,099. The 6-foot-8 forward logged 424 points (17.7 per game) and 207 rebounds (8.6 per game). He shot 48.5 percent on field goals and got to the free throw line 140 times, making 91. Also making all-conference was senior guard

Nick Cardenas, who averaged 11.2 points, excelling from the threepoint line, 59-for-154 for 39 percent. Junior guard Will McQuay logged 12.4 points per game, 73 assists and 99 rebounds. The Bears were 9-18 overall and 7-11 in the Suburban East.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake players collected the following honors after a 1017 season overall  and 7-11 in the Suburban East. Making allconference were seniors Maddy Thompson and Chloe Theissen. Team awards went to Thompson (MVP), Theissen (Offensive Player), senior Marin Peterson (Defensive player), seniors Sophie Menier and Freya Sanders (Most Improved). Getting all-conference honorable mention were Menier, sophomore Gabriella Hartley and freshman Amelia Post. Academic all-state were Menier, Chloe Tocko, and Sanders. Theissen averaged 14.6 points per game. Next were Thompson (6.96) and Post (6.1).

Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Nick Cardenas

White Bear Lake Basketball March 25, 2026

Nick Cardenas had to wait until he was a senior to play varsity basketball, and made the most of the opportunity. “Nick had some growing pains at first but once he figured things out he had a really good year,” coach Aaron Turner. “He was our three-point specialist. He could always shoot — he was born to shoot.” Cardenas, who played JV last year when the varsity was all seniors, averaged 12.3 points per game. He made 59 three-pointers with a .390 percentage. “He’s a savvy player and knows when to take his shot,” Turner added. Cardenas also logged 51 assists and 81 rebounds.

EASTER WORSHIP

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41st annual Wedding Show connects couples with local vendors

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Maundy Thursday

April 2 | 11am & 6:30pm Good Friday April 3 | 11am & 6:30pm

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Holy Thursday,April 6

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

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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)

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Northeast Youth and Family Services expands services

BY MADELINE DOLBY SHOREVIEW PRESS EDITOR

According to Northeast Youth and Family Services (NYFS) President and CEO Angela Lewis-Dmello, the organization has experienced an increase in the number of individuals it serves.

Lewis-Dmello informed the Shoreview City Council and city staff at a council meeting that in 2025, NYFS served 1,261 individuals, a 40% increase compared to the prior year. Last year, the organization recorded 19,440 total appointments ranging from clinic-based therapy to community advocacy.

“We vision to see a world where thriving individuals and families are building blocks of safe, unified communities established through a network of empowered and collaborative partnerships,” Lewis-Dmello said. She noted that NYFS has a number of values that guide its work, including equity, inclusion and belonging.

NYFS, founded in 1976, provides communitybased and trauma-informed mental health and community services. Headquartered in Shoreview, it works with 16 municipalities, five law enforcement agencies, three school districts, the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office and the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department.

“The core of our mission is really ensuring access,” Lewis-Dmello added. “We want to reduce barriers to care — cultural barriers, linguistic barriers, financial barriers, logistical barriers — and ensure that we’re serving folks that don’t otherwise have access to mental health services.”

One of the actions NYFS took this past year was defining its model of care. Lewis-Dmello said over the last year, the organization has been in a “refreshing” period. She explained that

Northeast

Youth and Family Services Partners

Municipal Partners:

• Arden Hills

• Birchwood Village

• Falcon Heights

• Hugo

• Lauderdale

• Little Canada Mahtomedi

• Mounds View

• New Brighton

• North Oaks

• Roseville

• Shoreview

• St. Anthony

• Vadnais Heights

• White Bear Lake

• White Bear Township

School District Partners

• St. Anthony- New Brighton Schools

• Mounds View Public Schools

• Centennial Schools

Public Safety Partners

• Mounds View

• New Brighton

• Ramsey County Attorney’s Office

• Roseville

• St. Anthony

• White Bear Lake

NYFS staff really looked at who they were and what they were doing, in an effort to ensure the services the organization was providing were the best, based on the best evidence.

The model of care is grounded in community and being both trauma-responsive and culturally responsive. The model also considers a client’s environment, development and caregiving experiences as well as their relationships.

For the 1,261 individuals served, 374 received clinic-based therapy, 264 received school-based therapy, 352 revolved around restoring power, 232 interactions were for youth pathways (diversion and community connections) and 39 were community advocacy-based. The top three diagnoses treated were generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and major depressive disorder.

Growth, renewal and new services offered by NYFS

Lewis-Dmello noted that NYFS now has twice as many team members as it did three years ago: from 24 in 2023 to 55 in 2026. The organization went from serving 602 clients in 11,630 sessions in 2023 to 1,090 clients in 19,343 sessions in 2025.

“We recently sold the Shoreview building. This is really important to our financial stability long term … That has meant that we’ve been able to establish a long-term operating reserve, which provides us stability, and we began an endowment in the name of Kay Andrews,” she added. Kay Andrews was the first family therapist at NYFS and served as its CEO from 1988 to 2009. According to Lewis-Dmello, the endowment will ensure the organization’s viability.

NYFS now serves the community from birth through lifespan. The organization has launched early childhood services, helping children from newborn to 5 years of age, and has expanded group therapy sessions in schools. It also offers group therapy for parents/caregivers related to parenting.

Lewis-Dmello said the early childhood mental health services use child parent psychotherapy and circle of security models. These models focus on early intervention and prevention of long-term mental health challenges, reestablish strong parenting bonds with the child and support the family in recovery.

For the first time, NYFS is serving as the primary advocacy contact for all domestic violence charges and related incidents in White Bear Lake and Gem Lake. When officers with the White Bear Lake Police Department responded to a domestic violence call, even if no arrest is made, they now send a referral to NYFS.

According to the NYFS annual report, the organization has been able to reach 73% of all referrals submitted, and 64% of those individuals chose to continue receiving ongoing advocacy services.

In the future, Lewis-Dmello said NYFS wants to establish itself as a training site for new providers, create clinical ladders program for staff and think about the organization’s geographic coverage. It is contemplating moving toward satellite sites across the 16 cities it serves.

“We have the main Shoreview location, but we want to have a couple providers and community centers across the 16 cities that we’re serving so

folks can ride their bike or walk down the street, go to a shared space and see their provider,” Lewis-Dmello added.

Shoreview Mayor Sue Denkinger asked what types of challenges the organization might face in the next few years, if any, and in what ways the city can help.

“The nature of the field of mental health is extremely challenging to be able to maintain solid revenue, because revenue comes in from insurance companies at about 60% the rate of what is needed to sustain an organization,” Lewis-Dmello said. “We always have a gap in our mental health services.”

Lewis-Dmello said a challenge the industry is facing as a whole is that employees move away from community mental health because it sees the highest number of clients with the greatest needs and the least number of resources.

“The other challenge, of course, is we’re looking at an unstable funding environment,” she added. “(The Office of Justice Programs and Victims Services) altered us to about 20% cuts in our domestic and sexual violence programs across agencies across the Twin Cities … That will affect the kinds of services we can provide.”

Shoreview Council Member John Doan asked where Lewis-Dmello sees the biggest need that is not being served, whether in age population or specific trauma.

“It’s all connected — people’s safety, their stability, their housing, their food access … Their ability to access mental health care is tied to their ability to have housing. We’re seeing just, generally, a theme of a lot of instability across our clients,” Lewis-Dmello responded.

She added that in partnership with the White Bear Area Food Shelf, NYFS has started a food pantry for the community to help with food instability.

“This is what we were made for,” LewisDmello said. “NYFS was founded on a mission of ensuring access to care … and how do we adapt to fill whatever needs we can.”

For more information, or to make an appointment, visit nyfs.org or call 651-486-3808. NYFS is located at 3490 Lexington Ave. N., Shoreview.

Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-4071226 or shoreviewnews@presspubs.com.

Century College recognized as a 2026 Leader College

WHITE BEAR LAKE — Century College has been designated a 2026 Leader College by Achieving the Dream, a national nonprofit organization committed to advancing community colleges as accessible hubs of learning, credentialing and economic mobility. Leader Colleges are recognized for meaningful progress in expanding access, improving early momentum metrics such as retention, advancing evidence-based student success strategies and strengthening institutional capacity through

intentional culture and systems change.

“This recognition reflects years of focused, data-informed work to improve outcomes for our students,” said Angelia Millender, president of Century College. “At Century College, we are committed to removing barriers, strengthening persistence and ensuring students complete credentials that lead to meaningful careers. Being named a Leader College affirms the collective efforts of our faculty and staff to advance student success and equity.”

Century College has been part of the Achieving the Dream Network (ATD) since 2011. Through that partnership, the college has strengthened its use of data to guide decisions and implement strategies that improve student momentum and completion outcomes. Over the past several years, Century College has demonstrated measurable gains in key student success metrics, including nearly a 4 percentage-point increase in second fall success rates and an 8 percentage-point increase in third spring success rates for fulltime entering students.

“The 2026 Leader Colleges demonstrate sustained commitment and measurable progress in advancing student success,” said Dr. Karen A. Stout, president and CEO of Achieving the Dream. “By using data to guide decisions and continuously strengthen their practices, these institutions are producing real gains in student outcomes and deepening their impact in the communities they serve. Their leadership sets a powerful example for colleges across the ATD Network.”