White Bear Press

New mayor of White Bear Lake likes ‘learning

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Mary Nicklawske has lived in Ireland, worked in neighborhoods from Boston to New York City, and spent a career helping people find their way after losing their sight — but White Bear Lake has always been where she wanted to call home and raise a family. Now, the longtime resident is stepping into a new role: mayor.

“I just really felt a calling,” she said.

Career

Nicklawske, who moved to White Bear Lake in 2009, grew up in North St. Paul. She was an All-State basketball player in high school before she attended the College of Saint Benedict for sociology. After she graduated in 1989, she enrolled in grad school to pursue a master’s degree in orientation mobility at Western

Michigan University. After completing her degree, she moved to Connecticut, employed at the Eastern Blind Rehabilitation Center through the West Haven Veterans Affairs Hospital to work with veterans who were blind or visually impaired.

“I loved working with veterans. I learned so much from them, and I was traveling all around,” she recalled. Although Nicklawske

WBLAHS hosts 1-act play competition, performs ‘Curious’ selection

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Performing Arts Center at White Bear Lake Area High School (WBLAHS) will host the Minnesota State High School

League’s (MSHSL) Section 4AA one-act play sectional tournament Jan. 22-23. The school will also compete in the tournament, performing “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.”

The last time the school hosted this tournament was in 2018. WBLAHS oneact Director Braylon Lane explained that, when the 12 SEE ONE ACT, PAGE 20

BY MAYA BETTI NEWS INTERN

Before the 2026 legislative session starts, state legislators and county commissioners are discussing top priorities with local business leaders.

The annual legislative reception, hosted by the White Bear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, fosters a dialogue between community leaders and business leaders.

The event featured two moderated panels, one with state legislators and another with county commissioners, taking place amid what multiple speakers described as “an uncertain moment for Minnesota communities and businesses.”

Public safety dominates discussion

Senator Heather Gustafson (DFL) opened the legislative panel by acknowledging recent events that have weighed heavily on both lawmakers and residents alike.

“We're on our third crisis in a row here in Minnesota,” Gustafson said, citing the killing of House Speaker Melissa Hortman, the Annunciation school shooting and, most recently, ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity across the state.

“It is not normal that communities and schools should have to come up with safety plans in order to protect their families and their students from the federal government,” Gustafson said. “But that’s where we’re at right now.”

Several legislators, including Rep. Peter Fischer (DFL), described ICE activity as having a direct impact on local business.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

CONTRIBUTED

MAHTOMEDI OUTDOOR SKATE PARTY

When: Noon-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center ice rink

Details: Celebrate winter with community skating party, bonfire, hot beverages and food. No registration required. Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com

BREAKFAST FOR A CAUSE

When: 8-10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 22

Where: Gable Pines, 1260 E. County Road E, Vadnais Heights Details: Breakfast to benefit the Parkinson Foundation. Contact: gablepines.com

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES BRIEF

DNR proposes to reduce statewide walleye limit from 6 to 4

Minnesota anglers would be able to keep four walleyes instead of six in a proposal by the Minnesota DNR to update a statewide inland water walleye fishing regulation that’s been in place since 1956. The rule change, if approved, would go into effect March 1, 2027. The current regulation of only one walleye over 20 inches in possession would remain in place.

Why propose the change? The DNR is taking proactive steps to help ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the excellent walleye fishing we have in Minnesota. Over the last 70 years that the current limit has been in

THANK GOODNESS IT'S FOOD

When: 11:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23

Where: White Bear Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave.

Details: Lunch for seniors catered by Donatelli's. Register by phone or online.

Contact: 651-653-3121 or whitebearseniorprogram. org

GATEWAY STATE TRAIL CANDLELIGHT WALK

When: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23

Where: Gateway State Trail at Stillwater Road/ Wildwood Elementary School

Details: Two-mile walk on a trail lit with hundreds of luminaries. Bonfires, hot beverages and marshmallows for roasting. Leashed dogs welcome.

Contact: 651-677- 8483 or Clara.Brown@state.mn.us

'THE 39 STEPS'

When: Jan 23-Feb. 7

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake

Details: Live performance of a fast-paced whodunnit comedy. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

UNDERSTANDING ALZHEIMER'S AND DEMENTIA SEMINAR

When: 4:30-530 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26

Where: Gable Pines, 1260 E. County Road E, Vadnais Heights

SCHOOL BRIEF

place, many factors have changed, including climactic conditions, invasive species introductions and fish-finding technologies.

The DNR is asking for comments on the proposed rule changes until 4:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5.

Submit comments by:

• Email to fisheries.rulemaking. comments.dnr@state.mn.us. Please mention “walleye limit” in the subject line or body of the email.

• Phone to the Minnesota DNR at 651-259-5235.

• Mail to Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155.  More information is available online at www.dnr.state.mn.us/ fisheries/management/walleyelimit.html.

Details: Presentation by the Alzheimer's Association. RSVP required at 612-449-5022 or petersonkendra@gablepines.com

LUNCH AND TABLE GAMES

When: 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28

Where: Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 3767 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights

Details: Seniors can bring a bad lunch and beverage, then play games. Contact: cslcvh.org

PUZZLE COMPETITION

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center, Room 103

Details: Friends and family members in groups of 4 will complete a 500 piece puzzle in a 2-hour event with prizes for top 3 teams. Ages 9 and up. Registration information online. Contact: 651-407-2018 or mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com

POLAR PLUNGE

When: Saturday, Jan. 31

Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Avenue

Details: The White Bear Lake Plunge has raised over $3M for Special Olympics Minnesota in its 22year history. Sign up as an individual or team. Contact: plungemn.org

2026 Teacher of the Year nomination process now open

It's time once again to celebrate professional excellence as part of the White Bear Lake Area Educators’ Teacher of the Year program. The process begins with nominations from community members, parents, students and colleagues. Nominate an exceptional teacher who goes above and beyond and who makes White Bear Lake Area Schools a great place to send students every day. The nomination form can be found online at www.isd624.org. Nominations are open until 4 p.m. on Monday, Feb.9.

CONSERVATION DISTRICT BRIEF

Conservation district hosts water quality, lake usage study presentation

The White Bear Lake Conservation District (WBLCD) will present the completed 2024 study of White Bear Lake’s water quality and lake usage at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the White Bear Lake Library, 2150 Second St. The 45-minute presentation by Steve McComas of Blue Water Science will focus on water quality indicators, boating trends and density and invasive species trends. Refreshments provided. More information on the study and trend analysis is available at www. wblcd.org.

A political mess

Although many past presidents have dealt with immigration challenges, Congress could not get things passed during the Biden Administration and the doors stayed opened for millions to enter our country illegally. We now have unrest in many major cities in the United States, our Twin Cities being among the worst. Minnesota has historically been a very kind and welcoming state. Over the years immigrants from many areas around the world have been welcomed to settle here. Minnesota’s “sanctuary” policies, similar to 13 states in the U.S., has put us at odds with the Federal immigration laws of the Trump Administration. It is also unfortunate that the actions of a few immigrants here have caused billions of dollars to be stolen from taxpayers for fraudulent programs that purported to benefit children, the homeless, the unemployed and those suffering from health issues. It appears that many of these programs were never audited and funding was inappropriately awarded, which helped drained our state’s financial surplus that we had a few years ago. It seems the discovery of this fraud is, in part, what has led to the federal government’s involvement and the resulting civil unrest. Its disturbing what is happening with the protests in our larger community, from the killing of a protester, to the protesters entering a protected place of worship in St. Paul.

People need to understand the First and Fourth Amendments of our Constitution.

The First Amendment reads, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise there go or abridging the freedom of speech or of the press; or the right of the people peaceable to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

The Fourth Amendment declares, “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized.”

These amendments to the Constitution - the Bill of Rights - were ratified Dec. 15, 1791. There were ten amendments in total.

We need a de-escalation of the protests and conflicts all over the country or we could be headed toward a Civil War. Business, schools, political services, safety on our streets and in our homes are all being affected.

From George Washington:

“However (political parties) may now and then answer popular ends, they are likely in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterward the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.” Farewell Address, Sept. 17, 1796

Love your neighbor

Jesus Christ who came into the world in a non-traditional way. He spent the last three years of His life training and teaching His disciples.

God had a message of how we are to live: To love our neighbor. It was hard for the 12 disciples to understand that He would go to the cross and suffer that we might have eternal life, grace and forgiveness.

The Bible is there for us to read, to learn how to live and how to care for others. This time of year is not always bright and cheery. Some are unemployed, others homeless, others have experienced the loss of loved ones. We have veterans who have been injured and are in the state of recovery. We need to remember these people who have risked their lives so that we might enjoy the freedom of this country.

Our world today needs more people recognizing the gifts from above and sharing a spirit of gratitude. We need to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Gene Johnson is Publisher Emeritus of Press Publications.

The YMCA: A Lasting Community Anchor in White Bear Lake

For generations, The White Bear Community has been a place where neighbors look out for one another. From community gatherings, to supporting our school teams, and the local traditions that bring families together year after year, the strength of our area has long come from people caring for one another. That same spirit is at the heart of the White Bear Area YMCA—a place that has long served as more than a gym, but as a cornerstone of community wellbeing for decades.

Rooted in a long history of community involvement, the YMCA has evolved alongside the White Bear Area to meet changing needs. While many recognize the Y as a place for fitness and recreation, its role has always been broader. Guided by its enduring mission—to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all—the YMCA focuses on whole-person wellbeing and a sense of belonging for everyone who walks through its doors.

At the Y, spiritual health is recognized as an essential part of overall wellbeing. The YMCA strives to be a welcoming space where people of

all beliefs feel respected, supported, and valued. We believe faith and personal values are central to an individual’s identity, and we want everyone who walks through our doors to feel free to live out what they believe in a way that is meaningful to them.

At the same time, the YMCA was founded on Christian principles, which continue to guide our mission today. A meaningful example of this is our partnership with Catalyst Church, which meets within our YMCA and works alongside us to serve the community. In addition, the Y offers a chaplaincy program and other mission-driven opportunities that allow individuals to explore or deepen their Christian faith if they choose. This is how our enduring mission guides us to help our communities achieve spiritual health in an increasingly diverse world.

Beyond its mission, the YMCA plays a vital role in supporting people at every stage of life. From swim lessons that promote safety and confidence, to youth programs that build character and leadership, to family activities that strengthen relationships, the Y meets people where they are. Through scholarships and financial assistance, the YMCA ensures access for families, seniors, and individuals who may otherwise be unable to participate—because everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.

For many, the YMCA serves as a “third place”—a welcoming space outside of home and work where relationships are built and

community is strengthened. This is especially meaningful for older adults. Staying active, socially connected, and engaged is essential for healthy aging, and the YMCA provides opportunities for seniors to maintain strength, mobility, and independence while forming lasting friendships and reducing isolation. This reality became even clearer with recent changes to some Medicare programs that no longer include YMCA memberships. The fear and concern among members were real and deeply felt. One member shared that without access to the gym, her classes, and the community she relies on, she worried her health would decline and she would once again need to use a walker. Others described the loss as more than a membership—it felt like losing an old friend, a place where they find connection, purpose, and a true sense of belonging in the community. Being able to help members navigate this change and continue to participate at the Y was a top priority.

In White Bear Lake, the YMCA is more than a facility. It is a place where youth discover potential, families find support, seniors stay strong, and people of all backgrounds feel they belong. As our community continues to grow and evolve, the YMCA remains committed to strengthening the White Bear community—body, mind, and spirit—for generations to come.

Cynthia Ellickson is the Associate Executive Director of the White Bear Area YMCA.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

Limited to 350 words.

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

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

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

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

Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

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

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

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

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

• Officers mediated a dispute over property in the 3400 block of Midland Court Jan. 7.

• A report of a dog-at-large Jan. 7 in the area of County Road E and Highland Avenue, and then at Linden Street and Pine Street, then McKnight Road and Lakeaires Blvd., resulted in the dog's capture in the 3600 block of Cranbrook Drive. The dog was then impounded.

• Disorderly conduct was reported near the intersection of East County Line Road and Spruce Place Jan. 7.

• A protection order violation was investigated in the 2400 block of Gisella Blvd. Jan. 7.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 1800 block of County Road F Jan. 7.

• Officers responded to a report of a missing person in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Jan. 8.

A St. Paul man was arrested for DWI Jan. 8 after officers found him sleeping behind the wheel of his running vehicle in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue.

• A detached garage was broken into on Highland Avenue Jan. 9.

• A pick-up-and-hold KOPS alert was issued for a 75-year-old White Bear Lake resident for felony second-degree assault following a gun-pointing incident in the 2100 block of Seventh Street Jan. 9.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 4700 block of Highway 61 Jan. 9.

• Juveniles were reported for dingdong-ditching near the 1900 block of Eugene Street Jan. 9. A Mahtomedi resident was arrested on a felony first-degree drug warrant in the 3400 block of White Bear Avenue Jan. 9.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 2100 block of 12th Street Jan. 9.

• Officers arrested a Vadnais Heights man in relation to a

Ramsey County investigation on White Bear Parkway Jan. 10.

• Officers assisted St. Paul police with a murder investigation in the 2000 block of Ninth Avenue, North St. Paul, Jan. 10.

• Officers responded to a civil issue in the 1800 block of County Road F East Jan. 10.

• Theft was reported in the 3700 block of Highway 61 Jan. 10.

• Officers followed up on a complaint to State Patrol of protesters blocking the roadway on Highway 61 Jan. 10 but did not find anyone blocking the roadway.

• Officers mediated a verbal domestic incident in the 3900 block of Linden Street Jan. 11.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 4300 block of Lake Avenue S. Jan. 11.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for domestic assault in the 3600 block of Auger Avenue Jan. 11.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2000 block of County Road E East Jan. 11.

• A noise complaint was reported in the 1600 block of Ninth Street Jan. 11.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for assault as officers were responding to a report of a burglary in progress in the 1400 block of Park Street Jan. 12.

• Officers responded to a report of a gas drive-off in the 2400 block of County Road F Jan. 12 where the license plate did not match the information for the suspect's silver Toyota Highlander.

• Officers mediated a civil dispute in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway Jan. 12.

• Theft was reported in the 2600 block of Riviera Drive Jan. 12.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Jan. 13.

• Officers assisted the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office with a burglary in the 3800 block of Labore Road Jan. 14.

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:

Birchwood Village

Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched out to Oakridge Drive and Five Oaks Lane Dec. 6 on a complaint involving a male on an ATV who was pulling a child on a sled behind him. They spoke to the ATV operator, who complied with the suggestion to put the ATV away.

Dellwood

• A driver was reported Dec. 1 for driving into another person’s driveway on Apple Orchard Road and crashing into a parked car.

Grant

• A suspicious person reported on a residential property in the 10000 block of 66th Street N. at 11:01 a.m. Dec. 2 turned out to be an Xcel Energy employee.

• A motorist who drove off the roadway in the 11000 block of Manning Trail N. at 11:57 p.m. Dec. 2 was arrested for DWI. Deputies arrested another driver for DUI on Dellwood Road N. and Jamaca Avenue N. Dec 3. A third motorist was arrested for DWI Dec. 18 on Manning Avenue N. and Square Lake Trail.

• A motorist was cited in the 8000 block of 75th Street N. for failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk Dec. 3, after the school security officer who was in the crosswalk at the time captured the incident on CCTV.

• A $1,150 swindle via gift cards was reported Dec. 4 from the 9000 block of Lansing Avenue N.

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 Dec. 14 to a report of a fight at a bar in the 1100 block of County Road E East, but the people involved in the incident were gone when they arrived. Evidence was collected and interviews were conducted.

• A 20-year-old man reported Dec. 15 seeing fresh damage to the front fender of his Toyota Camry after getting off work at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East and walking to the car, which was in the parking lot. The incident is under investigation.

• A 911 caller reported Dec. 15 that a dog had been barking for 40 minutes in the 500 block of Oak Creek Drive South. An animal control officer responded but was not able to make contact with the dog’s owner.

• A 71-year-old woman in the 600 block of Belland Avenue reported Dec. 15 that someone made three fraudulent transactions using her back account. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded Dec. 18 to a restaurant in the 1100 block of County Road E East after a man ordered and picked up nearly $130 worth of pizza but did not pay for it. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies arrested a 30-year-old woman from St. Paul Dec. 18 on a felony warrant and issued a theft citation to her and two other women who were caught by store security stealing merchandise from a business in the 800 block of County Road E East.

• Deputies responded Dec. 19 to a crash in the 4400 block of Centerville Road involving a Chevrolet pickup and a BMW sedan with minor damage to both vehicles. The drivers were not injured.

• Deputies issued a citation for disorderly conduct Dec. 19 to a 21-year-old woman from Circle Pines after she became offensive, abusive and threatening to an employee of a group

• An accident involving a school bus that slid off the road and brushed up against a tree was reported at 2:42 p.m. Dec. 5 in the 10000 block of Kismet Lane N. The bus company sent out a new bus to bring the children home and a tow truck to bring the bus home.

• A resident in the 9000 block of 103rd Street Court N. reported a barter enterprise gone wrong Dec. 12, after she gave a car to a male in exchange for painting services inside her house. The car is gone, but the old paint job remains untouched.

• Deputies confirmed that a suspicious vehicle reported in a parking lot in the 8000 block of 75th Street N. late Dec. 13 belonged to a watcher of the Geminids meteor shower, after a few stray falling stars could be seen from the squad car.

Mahtomedi

• The noise wars in the apartment complex on Wildwood Road continued Dec. 2 with a complaint of children playing soccer indoors at 11:03 p.m. Dec. 2. At 1:05 a.m. Dec. 6, deputies responding to another noise complaint at the apartments could not get the noisy neighbor to open the door, so they yelled through the door to keep the noise down.

home in the 500 block of Liberty Way.

• Deputies issued trespassing notices and theft citations Dec. 20 to a 25-year-old woman from Chaska and a 31-year-old woman from Mahtomedi after they were caught attempting to steal merchandise from a business in the 800 block of County Road E East.

• Deputies issued a trespass notice Dec. 20 to a 43-year-old man from Lakeville after he ignored loss prevention employees’ requests at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East for him to stop attempting to steal merchandise. He walked out to his car and drove away with a paint roller and other painting-related tools for which he did not pay.

• A 27-year-old woman from White Bear Lake reported Dec. 20 that someone broke into her Dodge in the 1200 block of County Road D and stole her boyfriend’s wallet while it was parked in her driveway overnight. The incident is under investigation.

White Bear Township

• Deputies responded Dec. 17 to a report of disorderly conduct at a restaurant in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive and issued trespassing notices to three people after one of the customers was denied a refund for chicken wings she’d already eaten and then became belligerent with wait staff and the manager.

• A 48-year-old man from Vadnais Heights reported Dec. 16 that someone stole his wallet out of his Ford van in the 1100 block of Iris Drive and used credit and debit cards to make fraudulent purchases. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies arrested a 50-year-old man in the 1700 block of Ridgewood Avenue Dec. 18 on active and outstanding warrants out of Ramsey and Chisago counties after receiving a tip from the public about where he was located.

• A 43-year-old man in the 5200 block of Carolyn Lane reported Dec. 20 that someone stole his gray Karavan trailer out of his driveway. The incident is under investigation.

• A person of undisclosed identity was arrested Dec. 13 for a domestic abuse no-contact order violation and cited for assault on Wildwood Road, after deputies responded to the report of an assault with injuries.

• A vehicle reported stolen at 3:04 a.m. Dec. 17 from Stillwater Road turned out to have been towed for snow removal.

Pine Springs

• A westbound motorist who could not maintain a lane or signal when changing lanes was arrested for DWI Dec. 6 on Highway 36 at Hilton Trail N. Although she showed signs of impairment, the driver denied drinking any alcohol. She was made to perform sobriety tests and registered a 0.319 blood alcohol content, which is almost four times over the limit. Her vehicle was towed. After she refused to take the test at jail, she was booked and held on gross misdemeanor DWI charges.

Willernie

• Deputies took a report at midnight Dec. 10 about wolves in August Lane and surmised that the animals were probably coyotes.

• Deputies responding to an abandoned 911 call from Hickory Street Dec. 4 heard children on their school bus singing “Jingle Bells.” When they investigated another abandoned 911 call from Glenmar Avenue Dec. 4, they spoke to the adults at the location and learned that their juvenile was on the phone line talking about pizza. On Dec. 5, deputies checked out a third abandoned 911 call from Talahi Drive and heard only a child singing. Deputies responding to an abandoned 911 call Dec. 7 on Wildwood Road spoke with the owner of the phone who said an unknown, possibly intoxicated woman, borrowed her phone to call 911 for unknown reasons before walking away. Deputies spoke with a group home resident on Ledgestone Drive Dec. 15 who frequently calls 911 to say he wants to leave the group home and reminded him this was not the most appreciated way to register that complaint.

• A motorist pulled over for stop sign violation at 1:17 a.m. Dec. 13 on Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue N. was arrested for giving a false name to a peace officer and for driving after suspension.

POLITICAL BRIEF

Meet your legislators

The League of Women Voters – White Bear Area invites residents to meet their state legislators. Sen. Heather Gustafson (District 36), Rep. Elliott Engen (District 36A) and Rep. Brion Curran (District 36B) have been invited to share insights about the upcoming legislative session and to answer your questions from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the White Bear Lake Ramsey

OBITUARIES

County Library. The three legislators will give a preview of the wide-ranging issues expected to be addressed with various bills when they are gaveled into session on Feb. 17. Many of the legislative committees are already meeting, and citizens will be able to hear about progress on the important topics affecting Minnesota.

To learn more about the League of Women Voters, visit lwv-wbla.org.

Robert R. Bocklund

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

not immigrant communities, represents a real threat to accountability.

More than 85% of people detained by ICE in Minnesota have not committed, nor been prosecuted for, any crimes. Even more troubling, U.S. citizens have been detained. One case involved a 17-year-old working at Target who was tackled and punched by ICE agents, detained, and later abandoned injured miles away once agents realized he was

Judith Elizabeth Lipovetz

a citizen. Only the compassion of fellow Minnesotans ensured he got help.

Under Kristi Noem, ICE has become a force of fear — not just in the Twin Cities, but across rural Minnesota. The fear of raids is keeping even documented farm workers from showing up.

Farmers already reeling from tariffs now face the risk of delayed planting, lost crops, reduced food supply, and higher grocery prices for all of us.

Minnesota thrives when communities trust institutions and feel safe going to work, school and the grocery store. ICE’s actions are doing the opposite. They are harming families, undermining our economy, and violating basic principles of fairness and due process. ICE should be out of Minnesota.

Sara Jo Harvey-Christensen

Age 96, of White Bear Lake/Mahtomedi, MN passed away on January 12th , 2026. Preceded in death by his wife Janice of 74 years of marriage, parents Russell and Pearl Bocklund, and his sister Kathleen (Robert) Potter. Survived by his children, Kathy (Bob) Keefe, Scott (Denise) Bocklund; grandchildren, Tina Keefe, Brian (Alison) Bocklund, Andy (Jessica) Keefe, Diana Bocklund; great grandchildren Rose and John Bocklund. From 1948 to 1964 he was a union Sheet Metal Worker and was employed by the Grand Furnace Company in Duluth, which was owned by his father Russell. In 1964 he graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth and moved to White Bear Lake, MN in 1965. He was employed by the State of Minnesota from 1965 to 1990. A private service will be held for immediate family. Bradshaw - White Bear - 651-407-8300

Roger Upham, PhD

Passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026. Born April 22, 1941, in Bath, Maine, Roger made his home in White Bear Lake, where he was known for his steady kindness, thoughtful presence, and deep love for family and community.

Roger was a pillar of White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church, where he was a familiar face and a trusted friend.

He coordinated Wednesday night dinners for many years, served on the church board, and recently joined the church choir.

Roger is survived by his wife, Carol; siblings Lisa Jones (Archie), Carl Upham (Janice), and Wally Upham (June); stepchildren Mark Hogenson (Nina), Paul Hogenson, and Kristin Henkenius (Jeff); grandchildren Ashley Hogenson (Drew), Catriona Clohessy (Elton), Michael Clohessy, Megan Henkenius, and Jackson Henkenius; and greatgrandchildren Everett and Elliott.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be held February 5th at 1:00 p.m. at White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church.

Lois O’Neil

95, White Bear Lake, passed 1/10/26. Survived by children Michael, Colleen, John (Pam); 5 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; 2 greatgreat-grandchildren; siblings Shirley, Gene, Milo (Linda). Preceded by husband, Jack; granddaughter Erin; daughter-in-law Barb; parents Ruth and John; brothers Larry and Ken. Service held 1/19/26 at Mueller Memorial www.muellermemorial.com 651429-4944.

Marcella Palma

95, White Bear Lake. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, passed 1/11/26. Survived by children, Nancy, Terri (Mike) Kimlinger, David (Dawn), Jeanine; 4 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren. Preceded in death by husband, Jim. Service previously held 1/18/26 at Mueller Memorial, WBL, www.muellermemorial.com 651-429-4944.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Judith (Judy) Elizabeth Lipovetz, age 87, of Roseville, Minnesota, formerly of Hibbing, Minnesota. Judy passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025.

Born on February 16, 1938, in Hibbing, Minnesota, Judy was the beloved daughter of Carl Rudolf Johnson and Ida Marie Johnson (née Johnson). She was a lifelong learner, a fierce competitor, and a proud nurse. Judy’s passions included: tennis, reading, bridge—where she achieved the status of Life Master—and traveling the world. Above all, she cherished her roles as daughter, wife, mother and grandmother.

Judy graduated from Hibbing High School and Hibbing Community College, becoming a Registered Nurse later in life. Her commitment to service was evident through decades of membership at the United Methodist Church in Hibbing, where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and delivered countless “Meals on Wheels.” Judy preferred to care for others outside of formal organizations or charities. Some of these special friends were older some were younger some were men and some were women it didn’t matter, if you were in that circle you were cared for.

She is survived by her children: Jennifer (Chris) Penwell of White Bear Lake, MN; Jerry (Andrea) Lipovetz of River Falls, WI; and Jeff (Tifini) Lipovetz of Mahtomedi, MN. Judy leaves behind seven grandchildren—Maddy and Sam Penwell, Michelle (Corey) Walz, Rudy and Joe Lipovetz, and Grace and Ryan Lipovetz—great-grandchildren, Elliana Hedman and Sutton Walz; and chosen granddaughters Riley Walz, Trinity Swims, and Talliah Swims.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, her parents Rudy and Ida Johnson, and her in-laws Louie and Eunice Lipovetz.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, January 7th at Bradshaw Funeral Home, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd., Stillwater, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Children’s Hospital Minnesota.

Judy lived a fun life full of adventures which she shared with the love of her life husband Jerry. They were the perfect match of complimentary traits to build a great life for these two Hibbing kids and their three children. She overcame physical challenges too numerous to name and was still driven to learn and better herself till the day of her passing on Christmas eve which although sad was quite appropriate as she loved Christmas and gave her family the best Christmas’s ever. www.bradshawfuneral.com, 651-439-5511

Was born June 15, 1946 to Walter Carlton, Jr. and Mary Marie (Stauffer) Harvey in Omaha, Nebraska. She grew up in Gering Nebraska where her father and grandfather were two of the town doctors. Sara graduated from college at Nebraska Wesleyan (Lincoln) and taught elementary school for several years including a stint as a civilian teacher with the U.S. Army in Göppingen, Germany in the mid ‘70s. Her later career was with Huntington Learning Center as a tutor. She married and divorced Dennis Stark in Nebraska and then moved to St. Paul, Minnesota where she met Gailen Scott Christensen, Jr. at a church choir rehearsal in 1986. They married on June 20, 1987 and lived in White Bear Township and later in the city of White Bear Lake. Sara was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Women, PEO and the Phi Mu sorority. Sara died January 10, 2026 of Fahr’s Syndrome, a complication of her lifelong battle with Pseudo Hypo Parathyroid, a genetic condition. Sara is preceded in death by her parents and sister Janet Carol Hubbell. She is survived by her husband Scott; her sister Laurie Anne Harvey; brother-in-law Jaymes Hubbell; nieces and nephews. Funeral Service 11:00 AM, Friday, January 23, 2026 at PATH OF GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 759 East County Road B, Maplewood, with a Visitation one hour before the Service. Interment, Acacia Park Cemetery, Mendota Heights. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Path of Grace United Methodist Church Music Fund. Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral Home, 651-429-6172.

Isabel is one of the best students that I've worked with during my 30 years as a counselor. She has taken our most rigorous courses from all disciplines including AP, College in the Schools and Honors and has done amazingly well. She really does seem to enjoy learning for the sake of learning more. Isabel has also taken courses through the Minnesota PSEO program. Furthermore, she is very involved with school activities and sports and most recently was on the girls's state championship soccer team. Isabel is such a positive influence on everyone in our school. She is always in a positive mood with a smile and is always optimistic. We are fortunate to have Isabel as a student at Mahtomedi High School.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

FINANCIAL PLANNING

How to confront frequent increases in costs of living

How to confront frequent increases in costs of living

Prices on the majority of goods and services have increased significantly over the last couple of years. Financial analysts report that inflation has reached heights that haven’t been seen in 41 years. According to the United States Department of Labor, the consumer price index, which measures changes in how much Americans pay for good and services, rose 0.4% in September.

Prices on the majority of goods and services have increased significantly over the last couple of years. Financial analysts report that inflation has reached heights that haven’t been seen in 41 years. According to the United States Department of Labor, the consumer price index, which measures changes in how much Americans pay for good and services, rose 0.4% in September.

As prices soared, families’ budgets were being pushed. What can people do in the face of rising costs on items they need, including those who may be on fixed incomes? These suggestions may help.

• Frequently review your budget. Keep track of how much items cost right now. Document all spending by writing down a list of weekly expenses or utilizing any number of free budgeting apps available. Tracking what is going out may make it easier to cut costs on less essential items, such as streaming services or gym memberships.

As prices soared, families’ budgets were being pushed. What can people do in the face of rising costs on items they need, including those who may be on fixed incomes? These suggestions may help.

• Frequently review your budget. Keep track of how much items cost right now. Document all spending by writing down a list of weekly expenses or utilizing any number of free budgeting apps available. Tracking what is going out may make it easier to cut costs on less essential items, such as streaming services or gym memberships.

• Contact service providers. You may be able to negotiate better deals with a service provider, such as a mobile phone company or a cable television provider, if they learn you are considering leaving. If they can’t work out a deal, go with the less expensive provider. You can always switch back at the end of the term if you desire.

• Contact service providers. You may be able to negotiate better deals with a service provider, such as a mobile phone company or a cable television provider, if they learn you are considering leaving. If they can’t work out a deal, go with the less expensive provider. You can always switch back at the end of the term if

• Stop automatic payments. Having subscriptions and other bills automatically deducted from your checking account is convenient, but those rising costs may be overlooked. By viewing your bill and paying it each month, you can see where costs have increased and where you might need to rethink services.

• Stop automatic payments. Having subscriptions and other bills automatically deducted from your checking account is convenient, but those rising costs may be overlooked. By viewing your bill and paying it each month, you can see where costs have increased and where you might need to rethink services.

• Carpool to work or school. Reduce expenditures on gasoline by sharing the costs with another person. Determine if public transportation is more cost-effective than driving to work or school each day.

• Carpool to work or school. Reduce expenditures on gasoline by sharing the costs with another person. Determine if public transportation is more cost-effective than driving to work or school each day.

• Consider alternative retailers. Brand loyalty to one supermarket or a particular retailer is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Nowadays it is wise to comparison shop across various stores to figure out where you’re getting the best deal. Venture into stores you may not have considered previously. Divide your shopping list by store category, visiting several for different items if it leads to big savings.

• Consider alternative retailers. Brand loyalty to one supermarket or a particular retailer is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Nowadays it is wise to comparison shop across various stores to figure out where you’re getting the best deal. Venture into stores you may not have considered previously. Divide your shopping list by store category, visiting several for different items if it leads to big savings.

• Unplug, literally and figuratively. Cut down on energy costs by unplugging items when not in use. Reduce dependence on devices to further stem costs on electricity and gas-powered appliances.

• Unplug, literally and figuratively. Cut down on energy costs by unplugging items when not in use. Reduce dependence on devices to further stem costs on electricity and gas-powered appliances.

Prices continue to rise and consumers can explore various ways to stick to their spending

Prices continue to rise and consumers can explore various ways to stick to their spending budgets.

andArts Culture

EMERGING ARTIST: LUCA ACKERMAN

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Band, orchestra, drumline, sound design, stage management—White Bear Lake Area High School senior Luca Ackerman’s daily rhythm seems to revolve around the concept of rhythm itself.

“I’m just always at school for one reason or another relating to arts,” Ackerman said. A percussionist since middle school, Ackerman’s start in theater sound design was more roundabout than one might expect. After a friend in drumline suggested attending a crew meeting for the fall musical, Ackerman accepted a position in costuming. One week later, a student dropped out of the sound crew.

“Our technical directors were like, ‘Hey, you seem like you’re interested in this. Do you want to do something that’s a little more intensive?’” Ackerman remembered. “All of a sudden— poof— there I was in the tech booth, finding sound effects and teaching myself how to get everything to work the way I wanted it to. I loved it, and I just kept coming back.”

Theater technical capabilities have grown at a rapid tempo over the last decade. When White Bear Lake Area High School performed “Little Shop of Horrors” in fall 2006, for instance, the sound technician manually rang an egg timer each time a phone went off on stage. When the high school performed the show in fall 2023, Ackerman used a more sophis-

ticated approach.

“We had four phones on stage, I found a different ring for each one that was fitting with the time,” Ackerman compared. “One of them, I sped it up a little bit to have a higher pitch to

differentiate it and have it tuned with the music and give them notes that made a fun little melody that matched the melody of the song.”

Flourishes like this have earned Ackerman praise from the Hennepin Arts Spotlight Education. In 2024, Ackerman received an evaluator shout out for his work on “Legally Blonde.” This year, he received outstanding technical leadership as tech manager for “Cinderella.”

Now, Ackerman is transitioning to stage manager for White Bear’s competitive one-act “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” A theater stage manager runs point on communication and organization, ensuring a production runs smoothly and helping to

‘THE 39 STEPS’ HAS ACTORS PLAYING 39 ROLES

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“The Thirty-Nine Steps” is a 1915 spy thriller novel by John Buchan about a man named Richard who finds himself sucked into an international spy scheme. Alfred Hitchcock filmed an adaptation of the book in 1935, a movie that Orson Welles praised as a masterpiece. Lakeshore Players’ upcoming production of “The 39 Steps” is based on the Tony-Award-winning parody play of the material, which recreates the book’s plot, but with a Monty Python comedic sensibility and precise physical comedy.

Most notably, the play has hundreds of characters, but a cast of four.

“One person plays Richard, and that’s his only role. The other three play probably over 40 characters,” explained the play’s director, Sarah Nargang. “We try to lean into the suspense of Hitchcock in the silliest way we can manage.”

Silliness, in this case, takes serious work. Nargang taught her cast Lecoq techniques—derived from a

French school of dynamic movement—so that the physical gags and rhythm of the show would be comedically effective.

“By the end of it, the actors are sweaty and exhausted and have had a blast. Hopefully, the audience feels that way too,” said Nargang before adding, “Maybe not the sweaty part.”

Cast member Hannah Steblay agreed, “It requires this unrelenting precision, carving and continuing to carve until you find the nut of the joke … [Nargang] is so good at sticking with something until you can distill it into exactly what the audience needs it to be.”

What the audience needs at this moment in time, according to Steblay, is levity. “It’s a heavy world right now for a lot of people,” said Steblay. “It’s also the middle of winter … It’s nice to go into a space with a bunch of people and collectively laugh.”

Nargang added, “[‘The 39 Steps’] doesn’t take itself too seriously. There’s no deeper message. Sometimes the most healing thing art can give is just a giggle.”

“The 39 Steps” runs from Friday, Jan. 23 through Saturday, Feb. 7. For tickets and details, visit lakshoreplayers.org or call the box office at 651-478-7427.

‘MATILDA JR.’ RESPECTS THE FUNDAMENTALS

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“Matilda,” written by renowned children’s author Roald Dahl—about a girl who develops psychic powers and uses them to combat her neglectful parents and abusive school principal—teaches audiences of all ages valuable lessons. Children’s Performing Arts’ upcoming junior adaptation of the material, however, must balance showing a dark reality while working with children.

“This story does a great job of teaching the importance of children standing up and saying something’s not right,” said Kathryn Mooers, the show’s director. “Adults tune out children so often—‘They’re learning,’ ‘They’re not quite there yet’—but you’ve taught them the fundamentals. When they see the fundamentals not being followed through, they’re going to be the ones to say, ‘Uh-uh. That’s not it.’” Mooers has focused on teaching her cast fundamentals of respect as well, though calibrated to different grade levels. “If you saw somebody

hit somebody else, whether that be somebody your own age or an adult, is that okay?” Mooers explained. “I have one rule; it’s called the respect rule. It has three parts: You have to respect yourself, you have to respect each other and you have to respect your space.”

Mooers believes focusing on this rule fosters better performances.

“The goal is to develop the child while creating great art,” Mooers stated. “That's how you get real success, because then, the kids's going on stage with confidence. They’re going to find more success. They're finding who they are. They're creating stronger relationships with each other.”

Once Mooers feels the cast members understands themselves and their relationships to one another, she asks them to do something the same with the play’s characters. She described, “Talk to the person next to you. Who are you to this person? Create that relationship within your characters because that's going to lead to a successful portrayal of the scene on stage.”

This process has led to inventive thinking from the cast. Cooper Vanyo, an 11-year-old who plays Matilda’s father, Mr. Wormwood,

found that he had little trouble portraying an adult. “It makes it a little easier because my character doesn't act like he's mature, like an adult. So I don't have to.”

Eleven-year-old Juniper Rains, who plays Mrs. Wormwood, found a similar connection. “I love dancing, and my character loves dancing,” Juniper said. “She’s in her own world … She’s in the dancing world and the sassy-queen world.”

Nine-year-old Joey Hultgren and 12-year-old Brynn Vinck, who take turns playing Matilda, both respect the show’s fundamental message to its audience. “I think it’s important to understand how people should be treated as equal as possible,” said Hultgren, “and I think that people should watch the show because the actors put a lot of time into it.”

“Everybody should know the story of Matilda,” added Vinck. “How she’s treated, how she overcomes her life and how she gets good things out of bad things.”

“Matilda Jr.” runs Feb. 13-22 at Forest Lake Area High School, 6101 Scandia Trail N., Door 32, Forest Lake. For more information, visit childrensperformingartsmn.org.

maintain a director’s vision. Ackerman believes his skills have translated well because of his background in band and orchestra.

“Both theater and music, they’re not sports, but they’re team sports. In order to have a good concert, everybody in the band has to work together,” Ackerman explained. “It’s the same thing in theater.”

White Bear Lake Area High School will perform “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” as part of the MSHSL competitive one-act play sectional tournament at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23 White Bear Lake Area High School Performing Arts Center, 5040 Division Ave., Door A. The tournament runs Jan. 22-23.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR WINTER THEATER CLASSES

All classes take place at Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake. To register, visit childrensperformingartsmn.org/classes-workshops

SATURDAY MORNING DROP-IN

Grades: K-2

Dates: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturdays, Jan. 24, Feb. 21 and March 21

Details: Classes focus on creative play and fostering imagination. Each week students will read books, play games, do crafts and create characters.

PIZZA PERFORMANCE POP UPS

Grades: 6-12

Dates: 6-9 p.m. Saturdays Jan. 24, Feb. 21 and March 28

Details: Students will come together for socializing and pizza, then break into groups to work on scenes assigned to them. At the end of the night, all students will get to perform for each other.

FEBRUARY EVENTS

DONUTS AND DOORMATS

Location: Mahtomedi High School, 8000 75th St., Room 1066

Dates: 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6

Details: Woodbury Board and Brush is partnering with Mahtomedi Community Education, offering adults and accompanied teens a chance to paint their own 18 x 30 inch doormat, all while snacking with donuts. Register at mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com/courses/category/51/ adults.

‘A YEAR IN VIETNAM’

Location: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St.

Dates: 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10

Details: Darryl LeMire, helicopter mechanic, Vietnam Veteran and lifelong White Bear Resident, will share his experiences as aircraft support during the Vietnam War.

GALENTINE’S DAY BINGO

Location: White Bear Lake City Hall, 4701 Highway 61

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

Details: Take your gals and pals out on the town. Grab a Bingo card from participating businesses, then get stamps as you visit shops. A regular bingo enters you for a gift card drawing; a blackout enters you for a chance to win the grand prize.

‘CHART TOPPERS & SHOWSTOPPERS! FROM BROADWAY TO BILLBOARD’

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

Dates: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22

Details: For theatre fans and pop music lovers, this show features smash hits from Broadway musicals that crossed over to become chart toppers.

NEW MAYOR: Life of helping others leads to new role in city government

FROM PAGE 1

was based in Connecticut, once the veterans progressed through the program and were ready to go back home, she would travel to their hometowns, including Boston, Vermont, New York and Washington, D.C., to help them learn to navigate a familiar space that didn’t feel so familiar anymore.

She eventually moved back to Minnesota because she wanted to spend more time with her aging grandparents. She continued her work as an orientation mobility specialist for Vision Loss Resources in Minneapolis. While there, she worked with people who were recently blinded due to an accident, drug reaction, or diabetes, among several other reasons.

“It was the greatest job ever,” she said. “You are with them from the moment they become blind until they are ready to go out, and by the time they leave you, they are independent and they are getting to their jobs, they are getting to school. You see the progress, and they build confidence so fast.”

Nicklawske eventually started working with Northeast Metro 916 and traveled around to work with children who were born with visual impairments.

Family

Nicklawske has been married to her husband Barry for 27 years. When their son Leo was 1 year old, Barry’s job brought them to Ireland. Nicklawske, who has always been a big traveler and loves Europe,

said yes immediately.

“I just I love adventure. I love new things. I love learning new things. That's one thing about mayor that I'm excited about, too, is that I'm going to get to learn a lot of new things. This is what I love to do,” she said.

After two years in Ireland, the family moved back to their home in Roseville for a short time before purchasing their home in White Bear Lake. Nicklawske stayed home with son Leo until he was in the second grade. She then opened her own business, Compass Mobility, where she contracted with nonprofits, schools and private individuals to serve as an orientation mobility specialist once again.

In June 2023, Nicklawske decided to retire to help care for her mother, who had Alzheimer’s. “I couldn’t keep doing everything … and I just wanted to spend time with my mom,” she said. After her mother passed away in April, Nicklawske decided she had the time and experience to serve her community in a new way.

“I've always wanted to get into the public life this way. I've been in human service, but I always wanted to get more into the public life and do more,” she said. “I think this is what (my mom) would want me to do.”

New role

One thing that has prepared Nicklawske for this role, she said, is her ability to get along with everyone.

“I've worked with so many people in my life that are from every walk of life. I have been in the poorest of poor neighborhoods

in New York City and Boston and here, and I've been in the richest of rich neighborhoods, because blindness doesn't discriminate,” she said. “I have seen all walks of life … it doesn't matter who they are and what they believe, if they are religious or not, if they are political or not political, I have to get along with them, and I think that really works well for being a mayor.”

In the new role, Nicklawske plans to utilize the “it takes a village” mindset. “I like getting people together. I am not a ‘power over’ kind of person. I'm a ‘power with,’” she said. “I love working with people and finding their unique skill to add to the conversation, because I don't know everything.”

Her top three priorities

she plans to focus on include seniors, public safety and fiscal responsibility. She plans to establish a senior task force, which will be tasked with trying to come up with solutions for White Bear Lake’s aging population.

“We have to figure out our senior population. We have such a high growth of seniors, one of the highest in Minnesota per population size, and I think there is a lot we could look at to see how we can help seniors,” she said. If seniors want to stay in their homes, she noted, we need to provide more services to allow them to do that safely, but if they want to move, we need to provide an affordable option.

She also plans to support the city’s public safety efforts. “That’s a huge priority for me, supporting

our police department and our fire department and making sure that they have what they need to keep our community safe.”

Lastly, she wants to focus on keeping budget increases in line with inflation. She said once the downtown project is complete, she is hoping the city can move away from the large tax increases it has been seeing.

“I’m hoping that we can really try to even it out. We got a lot done in the last 10 years. My goal is to try to stay with inflation.”

Nicklawske said she is most looking forward to getting out and about in the community and meeting new people. She’s also looking forward to working with city staff.

“I really expect myself to be very involved, because I am retired. I have time. My son's off at school. This is what I want to do,” she explained. “People have already been emailing me, ‘Will you come to this? Will you come to that?’ Yes, I'm going … I'm going to try really hard to show up as much as possible and to be very present in the community.”

When Nicklawske is not busy wearing her mayor hat, or mother hat, you will likely find her traveling, cross-country/ downhill skiing, swimming, sailing, thrifting, mountain biking or playing board games.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624 WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110 MINUTES DECEMBER 8, 2025

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

A meeting of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, December 8, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in Boardroom 200 at the Sunrise Park District Service Center, 2399 Cedar Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1. Chair Arcand called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2. Roll CallPresent: Skaar, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Daniels. Absent: Beloyed, Ellison. Ex-Officio: Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak. 3. Pledge of Allegiance. 4. Thompson moved and Streiff Oji seconded to approve the agenda as presented. Skaar made a motion to livestream the public forum and address comments. There was no second. Voice vote: Ayes, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Daniels. Nays, Skaar. Motion carried. 5. Daniels moved and Thompson seconded to approve the consent agenda consisting of: a. Minutes for Board meeting on November 10, 2025 - A-5g and B portion tabled until the January 12, 2026 meeting, and November 24, 2025; b. Monthly invoices, all of which met the standards and guidelines as set by the School Board - removed from consent agenda; c. Resolution regarding acceptance of gifts with thank you letters directed to the donors; d. Field trips; and e. Resolution regarding personnel items. Skaar made a motion to revise the A-5g and B portions of the November 10, 2025 minutes. Skaar requested to table the motion on the A-5g portion of the minutes. Arcand seconded the motion to revise the B portion of the minutes. Thompson made a point of clarification. Daniels requested to table the motion on the B portion of the minutes. The motion was tabled. Skaar made a motion to remove A-5b, Monthly invoices from the consent agenda. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Streiff Oji moved and Daniels seconded to approve item A-5b, Monthly invoices, all of which met the standards and guidelines as set by the School Board Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. PUBLIC FORUM - Rebekah Bradfield, Dianna Delaney, Brad Nelson. INFORMATION ITEMS 1. Superintendent’s Report - Dr. Kazmierczak highlighted several news items in the White Bear Lake Area School District. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Presentation and Public Hearing Related to the Proposed 2025 Payable 2026 Property Tax Levy - The Public Hearing started at 6:05 p.m. The public had an opportunity to speak after the presentation. 2. First Reading of School Board Policies: a. 402, Disability Nondiscrimination Policy; b. 423, EmployeeStudent Relationships; and c. 611, Homeschooling. The policies listed above will be on the January 12, 2026 agenda or subsequent agenda for a second reading. OPERATIONAL ITEMS 1. Daniels moved and Thompson seconded to approve the action on Certification of 2025 Payable 2026 Property Tax Levy in the amount of $73,598,400. Skaar made a motion to amend the action to make it subject to an operational audit. There was no second. Roll call vote: Ayes, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Daniels. Nays, Skaar. Motion carried. 2. Thompson moved and Skaar seconded to approve the action on Acceptance of Brosious Grants. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 3. Daniels moved and Streiff Oji seconded to approve the action on Tentative

305, Policy Implementation; b. 306, Administrator Code of Ethics; c. 608, Instructional Services - Special Education; and d. 722,

Public Data and Data Subject Requests. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. BOARD FORUM. ADJOURNMENT Daniels moved and Thompson seconded to adjourn the meeting at 7:17 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Kathleen Daniels, clerk. Published one time in the White Bear Press on December 21, 2026.

WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 624

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

White Bear Lake Area Schools is accepting sealed bids for construction of the Oneka Elementary – 2026 Chiller Replacement Project at Oneka Elementary School in Hugo, Minnesota. Bids will be received at The District Office of the White Bear Lake Area Schools at 2399 Cedar Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN 55110, Attention: Kevin Fernandez, until 2:00 PM (local time) on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, in accordance with the specifications set forth herein and the “other” terms, conditions and instructions to the specifications. At that time all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. All bids received after the time stated will not be considered. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail or on the handling of mail by employees of the school district. Whether the bid is sent by mail or by means of personal delivery, the bidder assumes responsibility for having their bid clocked in on time at the place specified. Fax or telephone amendments will not be accepted at any time. Bidders shall submit bids in duplicate on the forms provided in the Project Manual. No oral, facsimile or telephone bids or modifications of bids will be accepted. All sealed bids are to be labeled with the project name

The Project consists of the Mechanical/Electrical and General Construction work required to replace the existing air-cooled chiller located on grade within an enclosure and any pump and hydronic piping work shown and identified in the documents at the Oneka Elementary School.

You may view and order bid documents by going to the Franz Reprographics web site at www.franzrepro.com , and selecting the Franz Public Plan Room. Please login with your email address and password or Register if this is your first time in the Plan Room. Select the project from the list of public projects. Once you have selected the project, please review the Bid Details for information on ordering documents.

Each bidder shall submit with the bid, a cashier’s check or bid bond, made payable to White Bear Lake Area Schools, in the amount of five percent (5%) of the maximum amount of its bid.

All vendors entering into a contract with the District for $10,000 or more are to provide a Labor and Material Payment and Performance Bonds for 100% of the contract. Bonds must be furnished within 10 days of notice of award of the Contract. Contract is subject to compliance with the applicable Schedule of Prevailing Wage issued by the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry. Provide all State required Responsible Contractor Forms with your bid.

There will be a pre-bid meeting and walk through on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 3:30 PM at Oneka Elementary School.

Bids may not be withdrawn for thirty (30) days after the scheduled closing time for the receipt of bids without the consent of the White Bear Lake Area Schools. The School Board reserves the right to accept any bid, to reject any or all bids, to waive

and

and

or

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business

penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: December 30, 2025

Signed: Sarah Scharff, Managing Partner Published two times in the White Bear Press on January 14 and 21, 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: Joie Lesin

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1769 Lexington Ave N, PMB 248, Roseville, MN 55113

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. Joy Elizabeth Nisell 1769 Lexington Ave N, PMB 248, Roseville, MN 55113

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: December 22, 2025

Signed: Joy Elizabeth Nisell Published two times in the White Bear Press on January 14 and 21, 2026.

White Bear Lake honors outgoing mayor, council member

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

With remarks, street signs and bears, the city of White Bear Lake thanked outgoing Mayor Dan Louismet and City Council Member Heidi Hughes for their years of service and honored them for leadership, advocacy and a deep love for the community they served.

“It’s a good night to get your bear,” said Council Member Bill Walsh. It’s a tradition for the council to present outgoing council members with a white bear. City staff also hopped on board, thanking them with personalized street signs.

Louismet

“When you became mayor four years ago, you really hit the ground running. I was very pleased, surprised even, how naturally you took to the job,” Walsh said to Louismet. “Running a meeting is not easy … it looks easy but it's not. And you just were very natural at that.”

Walsh added that he is going to miss Louismet’s legal mind on the council. “I relied on that, I trusted that, and I really appreciated it.” He added, “A native White Bear Laker is a real key on our council … You grew up here. You understand the community, you kind of got the pulse.”

Walsh praised Louismet for being a good leader, having integrity and being a nice guy, and thanked him for always giving the “speech” to high school students. As an assignment for students in government class at White Bear Lake Area High School, they must attend a council meeting.

“He made that speech so many times in four years, and I never got tired of him saying that. You meant it and it meant a lot to those kids, and I’m sure one of those kids will be mayor of White Bear Lake too.”

Walsh told Louismet to “learn, earn and serve” and to come back some day in the future to serve the city again.

• Save the date. The annual Dog Days event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 23, downtown. The public community event invites dogs and their owners to gather in downtown, where vendors set up shop on sidewalks to sell merchandise, treats and share information about dog rescue and adoption.

Main Street has requested the closure of Washington Street for the event, as well as use of Railroad Park.

• Get ready, because fish fry season is right around the corner. The Church of St. Pius X has been granted a temporary liquor license to allow for the serving of alcohol during its fish fry dinners, which are scheduled for 4 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 27, March 13 and March 27.

• The city will continue its partnership with Northeast Youth and Family Services (NYFS). Prior to a transfer of service to NYFS in 2012, general mental health services were provided by the White Bear Lake Community Counseling Center. The original agreement between the city and NYFS provided that the city’s 2012 funding level of approximately $90,000 be reduced over five years to a level proportionate (according to population) to other participating cities. The city’s contribution in 2016 was $49,293, which marked the last year of declining funding levels. The city’s 2026 funding allocation is $63,261. Also included in the city’s annual agreement for services is the shared position of a mental health case worker who works on behalf of the cities of Roseville, Mounds View, New Brighton, St. Anthony and White Bear Lake to assist the police department in their work with residents. The cost of the position is

City Manager Lindy Crawford said Louismet has been the “most engaged mayor” she has ever worked for, and shared some crazy stories about Louismet participating in a live fire burn training, getting tazed by the police department and climbing one of the city’s water towers.

“You have always fought for public processes to play out and had the best interests of the community in mind, always. You sought to educate yourself on topics before making a decision, and you fought for staff, and you fought for me. Most importantly, you led up at the dais, and you led appropriately,” Crawford said. “We didn’t always agree, but I think that is what makes a great team, and I’m going to miss you for that.”

Louismet said the decision to not run again was so that he could spend more time with his wife, Molly, and two daughters.

“In a lot of ways, four years seemed to fly by. In some ways it seemed to drag on. I’m sure if you ask my wife, it probably felt like a decade. There were some long days, but I feel like I was just kind of getting started,” Louismet said. “What began four and a half years ago was a very simple campaign to preserve the character, charm and history of White Bear Lake. I think we did that.”

divided proportionately to services provided among these communities. White Bear Lake’s share of this position amounted to $31,062 in 2026.

• The council has adopted a resolution indicating its support for the designation of County State Aid Highway 72. Currently, Highway 120 / Century Avenue / East County Line Road from I-694 to County Road E is owned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). MnDOT has been working with Ramsey and Washington counties on a jurisdictional transfer of the roadway from MnDOT to the counties.

The final step in the jurisdictional transfer process is to designate a county road number and name, and to add it to the county state aid highway (CSAH) system. The counties also need to seek necessary municipal support. The roadway segment has been designated as County Road 72 but retains the Century Avenue / East County Line Road name for addressing purposes.

• The council has approved an amendment to a conditional use permit (CUP) to allow VFW Post 1782 to add 14 boat slips to its existing commercial marina. The council discussed the item at length last month (see VFW’s request for more slips moves forward,” White Bear Press, Dec. 17.)

The VFW’s request initially included a four-stall parking variance, but that was deemed no longer necessary since the council collectively agreed to give the VFW credit for four stalls adjacent to Veterans Park.

Community Development Director

Jason Lindahl explained that city staff only found three locations

Louismet thanked the residents for their support, council members for maintaining civility during meetings, city staff for all their hard work, and his family for sticking by his side during his service.

“There is a sacrifice made and a price paid by the spouses and children of elected officials … There have been a lot of 15-hour days where the demands of my day job didn’t get me home until after the girls go to bed. I’m sure at times my wife felt like a single parent. All I can say is, thank you, to my wife, and my kids for sticking with me.”

Hughes

“Heidi did something I think is kind of unusual in politics,” Walsh said. “She saw a problem in the community, a challenge in the community, something that needed to be solved. She stepped forward, put her name out on the line and ran for office, knocked on doors, and won a hard-fought election and then actually followed through with that process and dealt with that problem, that challenge, that thing in the community and succeeded and served her years.”

Walsh thanked Hughes for being a

strong voice for taxpayers, especially at council work sessions. “She was a really good voice in that room for taxpayers,” he said. “After four years, she decided she was going to step back and let someone else represent Ward 2. I think that deserves recognition.” Crawford noted that Hughes was always responsive to constituents. “Over the past four years, you've been here to learn about the city, solve problems creatively and asked tough questions, even when it wasn't always the easy thing to do,” she said. “You were always responsive and available when I needed you, and I really appreciate it. You have been staff’s eyes and ears in the community while you enjoy our amenities.”

New council members

City Council Member Ellen Gurrola and Mayor Mary Nicklawske took their oath of office and took their seat at the dais.

“Thank you for entrusting me with this position. I’m humbled and very honored, and I look forward to working alongside this incredible city staff, this council and the residents of White Bear Lake,” Nicklawske said. “I swore an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States of America, the Minnesota Constitution and the White Bear Lake City Charter. I’ve reviewed and studied these documents thoroughly and I encourage all White Bear Lake residents, city staff and council members to do the same. We share a common understanding of these guiding principles, which strengthen our democracy and our community.” She added, “We have a really great community here in White Bear Lake. Let’s all continue to work together to find common ground and to continue to keep our city a safe, welcoming and wonderful place to live for each and every one of us.”

Look for a Q & A with Gurrola in a future edition of the Press.

throughout the city that could run into this similar scenario with parking, including McCarthy Park, Stellmacher Park and Veterans Park.

• The council has made its appointments for 2026 and decided which council members will serve as representatives on which boards/ committees.

- Ramsey County League of Local Governments – Council Member Ellen Gurrola; alternate Mayor Mary Nicklawske

- Vadnais Lake Area Water Management OrganizationCouncil Member Andrea West; alternate Gurrola

- Ramsey County Dispatch Policy Committee - Council Member Bill Walsh; alternate Council Member Steve Engstran

- Century Avenue Coalition –Council Member Kevin Edberg; alternate Nicklawske

- Edberg will serve as chair of the City Council. The chair presides over meetings in the absence of the mayor.

- Housing and Redevelopment Authority – Gurrola

- Administrative Hearing Officer - Jim Rathburn has served in the role since 2019. For 2026, Rathburn will receive an hourly rate of $40.56, which represents a 3% increase from 2025.

• The annual joint work session for the council and boards/ commissions has been scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, in the public safety training room.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, at City Hall.

LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION: Leaders highlight water needs, labor pressure in bonding year

“Some of the businesses have ICE going into them or hanging out on their doorsteps, hour after hour, same day after day, week after week,” Fischer said. “So, if you wonder why a business is closing, this is why, because they don't feel safe, or their customers don't feel safe.”

Rep. Brion Curran (DFL) echoed those concerns, calling the situation unprecedented.

“If you want businesses to thrive in Minnesota, ICE needs to leave,” Curran said.

Water infrastructure top priority in bonding year

Water infrastructure emerged as a major focus as the state approaches a bonding year.

Sen. Karin Housley (R) said nearly every community she visits identifies water as its most pressing need. “99.9% of the time, it is water,” Housley said. “Water is going to be the new gold.”

She noted that the Legislature approved more than $87 million in clean and drinking water grants last year and said she hopes to pass a similarly focused bonding bill in 2026.

Washington County Commissioner Stan Karwoski

said sustainable water use will be critical in the years ahead.

“We can’t just assume water will always be there,” Karwoski said, adding that prioritizing the environment can also drive job growth.

Workforce development and access to child care

County leaders also emphasized that building a strong workforce in the Twin Cities requires practical training and access to child care.

Ramsey County Commissioner Kelly Miller said the

county has focused on making workforce education “less siloed and more practical” by connecting schools, higher education and local businesses, citing programs like Construct Tomorrow, Trades Right Track internships, and Tech Squad.

Karwoski highlighted the importance of offering multiple career pathways.

“There’s this cultural belief that the American Dream is a four-year degree. Short-term certificates and two-year programs can build a workforce across the region that attracts and retains companies,” Karwoski said.

Workforce challenges are compounded by gaps in child care and caregiving, Ramsey County Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh said. “If you don’t have somebody to care for the people you need cared for, you don’t get to work. Employees will be at work, but not really at work.”

She cited recent cuts to Medicaid payments, child care programs and legal immigration pathways as additional pressures on the labor pool.

“We’re not going to be able to homegrow enough people to take care of our aging communities,” JebensSingh said. “That makes caregiving a workforce issue, not just a family issue.”

Gopher Hockey Players Visit

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

As part of Gopher Hockey Rink Roots, presented by PNC Bank, former Mahtomedi player and current Gopher Axel Begley recently returned along with several of his teammates to share the ice with current Mahtomedi youth hockey players. Along with hockey tips and exercises out on the ice, the young players also had the opportunity to get autographs from the college players.

Lake Links Association Annual Winter Walk & Open House

Local residents had the opportunity to take brisk, early evening winter walks followed by warm beverages and treats during the recent Lake Links Association Annual Winter Walk & Open House. While warming up inside at the Mahtomedi District Education Center, visitors could also view historical displays about the history of the railroad and streetcars that connected the area to the Twin Cities and participate in a drawing for reflective safety vests.

School board weighs self-evaluation amid disputes over procedures

BY MAYA BETTI NEWS INTERN

Members of the White Bear Lake Area School Board are looking into a board self-evaluation “to better serve” the community as they head into 2026 after repeated discussions on proper board procedures.

During the annual reorganization meeting, Board Member Jessica Ellison shared a statement outlining what she describes as the board’s legal and ethical responsibilities. Ellison said that, even after nine years on the board, she continues to learn what governance requires.

“We govern — we’re not legislators, we’re not judges,” Ellison said. “We operate as a governing body, and the only power that we have is as a quorum of members.”

Ellison explained that the board’s role is to set a strategic vision, approve budgets and establish policy. She said it’s up to the superintendent and staff to determine how to implement those decisions.

Once the board has done its job, she said, it’s the duty of the board members to uphold it.

the meeting video and later researched the individuals named.

“I Googled these two individuals and found that Mr. Wolf passed away in October 2024,” Ellison said. “The report provided was dated July 2024 and, as of today, the board has not received an answer about when he (Skaar) made this request and when the report was delivered to him.”

Ellison also noted that board policies prohibit members from conducting independent investigations.

She recommended that the board conduct a selfevaluation in the coming year.

“As we move into a new year, we must model the behavior we expect of our students and publicly uphold our policies,” Ellison said.

“As we move into a new year, we must model the behavior we expect of our students and publicly uphold our policies.”

Jessica Ellison Member, White Bear Lake Area School Board

“After a vote, it’s our job to speak with one voice,” Ellison said. “I carry the label of school board member everywhere I go in this community, and it’s important for people to see that I support the decisions of the board, regardless of how I vote.”

Ellison then referenced remarks made by Board Member Dan Skaar during the board’s Dec. 8 meeting regarding an education finance analysis attributed to Ken Wolf and Bob Fallen of Local Elections Matter. The analysis was covered previously in the Press (see “White Bear Lake Area School District’s budget discussion brings conflicting numbers, viewpoints,” White Bear Press, Dec. 17). Ellison says she reviewed

In response to Ellison, Skaar read from a Minnesota statute outlining school board duties, stating that boards are responsible for managing schools, adopting rules and prescribing courses of study. According to Skaar, board policies are being used to suppress dissenting voices.

“Policy 209 and 215 are being used as a way to intimidate minority board members,” Skaar says, adding that he has raised concerns with the Minnesota School Boards Association and expects those policies to be reviewed.

According to the district website, Policy 209 and Policy 215 establish the ethical standards, expected conduct and accountability procedures for School Board members.

Skaar said Ellison’s characterization of the financial data was incorrect, stating that the information came from publicly available district documents and the Minnesota Department of Education, not Wolf and Fallen.

Skaar added that he does not dispute the district’s numbers but believes the presentation to the board lacked context.

Board Chair Scott Arcand said that the board’s procedures are intended to maintain order and ensure clarity.

“We’re trying to have people not talk over each other,” Arcand said. “Otherwise, we get two or three people talking, and then nobody hears.”

The White Bear School Board will reconvene for a work session on Jan. 26 at the District Service Center at Sunrise Park, 2399 Cedar Avenue, White Bear Lake.

Floristry North hosts Boogie, Bloom & Blend

Floristry North will host Boogie, Bloom & Bend from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6.  The festive, community-focused Galentine’s Day event will bring together creativity, connection and local giving.

The disco candle and floral workshop invites participants to enjoy a hands-on evening of candlemaking and floral design set to a ’70s disco soundtrack. The beginner-friendly workshop includes guided candle blending followed by a floral arranging session, with all materials provided. The evening will also include disco-inspired ambiance, pre-packaged mocktails, Polaroid-style portraits and a lighthearted prize for best disco attire. Attendees are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food donation to benefit the White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf.

Space is limited. To register, visit floristrynorth.com. Floristry North is located at 4901 Long Ave., White Bear Lake.

Weather Tidbits

Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com

Winter’s back and with a vengeance. Our 19th Alberta Clipper of the winter season moved through the region this past Sunday, bringing us just under a half inch of snow. Because of the cold, the snow stuck to the roads and made driving slippery. The jet stream is suppressed well to our south and flow is straight from the Arctic. Most likely this will be the coldest temperature outbreak of the season (this weekend) before the jet stream flattens and brings us some relief early next week. Really not much we can do about it. If you’re headed out, dress appropriately for the cold and wind. Note: My 2026 weather calendar is available at Lake Country Book Sellers. A big thank you to White Bear Lake Realty for being our sponsor!

internet at WeathermanWatson.com.

Symphony Senior Home Care is award finalist

Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota recently announce the 18 finalists for the 2026 Torch Awards for Ethics, selected by a panel of independent judges comprising local business leaders. Among the finalists is Symphony Senior Home Care, a White Bear Lake-based company that provides in-home care to seniors.

The Torch Awards celebrate businesses that exemplify a steadfast commitment to ethical practices in their interactions with customers, employees and the community. Finalists are evaluated on pillars such as honesty, transparency, integrity and accountability.

The 18 finalists will be honored at the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics Luncheon on Tuesday, April 21, at The Club at Golden Valley. Winners will be announced live during the event.

Mahtomedi grads open up dispensary in Gem Lake

Two brothers from the White Bear Lake area have opened a fully recreational cannabis/ marijuana dispensary known as the Lakes Dispensary, located at 1599 County Road E East, Gem Lake. Maxwell Vannelli and Mitchell Vannelli graduated from Mahtomedi High School. Maxwell is the owner/ license holder and likely one of the youngest license holders in the state; Mitchell is the general manager.

“We both got into this industry about four years ago and have been waiting (for) and navigating this store opening for about a year now,” Mitchell said. “We have had a lot of setbacks from the state. We built the store from the ground up and had to get very creative to make the store work within the state’s parameters.”

The store opened earlier this month for a soft launch, but a grand opening is planned once the dispensary is able

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HIGH SCHOOL: Performs ‘curious’ selection

FROM PAGE 1

schools in the section asked for hosting volunteers, “I very gleefully and loudly went, ‘We can; our theater’s done.’ And then I got handed a big ol’ packet with, ‘Here's the amount of work that goes into it for free.’”

In addition to hosting 11 other schools, Lane has chosen a challenging play for WBLAHS’ entry.

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” is traditionally a three-hour drama about Christopher, a British boy with autism who tries to solve the murder of his neighbor’s dog, a mystery that reveals devastating secrets about his family’s past.

that the economical format of the competitive one-act forces each scene to do heavy dramatic lifting. “It puts theater to the extreme.”

Lydia Jersak, who plays Christopher’s school counselor, Siobhan, agrees. “How can we still get the core message of what’s really going to resonate with the audience in only 35 minutes?” she said. “It's a more stressful experience, but the result becomes more tight-knit, more emotional and more impactful as a result.”

“How can we still get the core message of what’s really going to resonate with the audience in only 35 minutes?”

Lydia Jersak One Act Cast Member

“This is the hardest play I’ve ever had to cut,” Lane said. “Cutting it from three hours to half an hour is hard.”

The play’s cast, however, has found that the cut portions of the script can provide powerful subtext for what remains. “A lot of the moments that don't happen on stage now, I still try and make it part of him that these things still happen,” said Christopher’s actor, Brady Milles, who also has autism.

Lane stated that the script cuts have also been a collaborative effort with the cast. “While it is more challenging for them as actors to know what's getting cut,” he said, “It has allowed them to understand the script on a deeper level.”

Cast member Conner MacDonald added, “You’ve done the work as an actor. Cutting isn’t taking away from the work.” MacDonald believes

Neola Luswata, who plays Christopher’s mother, hopes the show’s impact will allow audiences to consider other people’s perspectives.

“Every individual sees something differently,” she said. “Although we’re focused on how Christopher views his world, you can focus on the different elements and aspects of the world as a whole.”

To tackle such a theme in half an hour may seem daunting, but cast member Audrey Gallagher is not concerned, referencing White Bear’s 2025 sectional tournament win for “She Kills Monsters,” a play about struggles young LGBTQ+ people face.

“We can take any social issue, and we can make it work,” Gallagher said.

“This theater? This group of people can do anything we put our minds to.”

White Bear Lake Area High School will perform “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” as part of the MSHSL competitive one-act play sectional tournament at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23 at the White Bear Lake Area High School Performing Arts Center, 5040 Division Ave., Door A.

Preferred Kitchens celebrates 40 years in business

As you walk into the showroom at Preferred Kitchens for the first time, you may be saying to yourself, “I’ve driven past this place a thousand times.”

The business has been located on the corner of Highway 61 and Second Street in downtown White Bear Lake for almost 30 years, but its story actually started 40 years ago in a tiny showroom on University Avenue in Fridley. After 10 years of growing into the business, the business made the move to White Bear Lake, as most of its projects were happening in the northeast metro.

“We immediately felt welcomed by our new neighbors. The anxiety of wondering if this move was a good decision quickly faded, and we got to work helping our new community,” said former owner Mark Klosterman.

Preferred Kitchens’ primary focus has been kitchen and bath remodels as well as working on new construction.

local businesses. Staff’s favorite community event is participating in the Manitou Days parade, where they hand out oranges. To date, they have handed out roughly 26,000 oranges.

the open and input from anyone within hearing range is welcomed,” she explained.

“Over the years we’ve expanded our work into virtually every room in your home,” Klosterman said. “We are also firmly committed to helping every customer that visits us with that small project or a replacement for that old broken hinge or drawer slide.”

Throughout the years, the business has supported the community, whether it be for a local event, sports team or other

Fun fact — Preferred Kitchens Inc. was born the same year as the current CEO and President Christen Kriesel. She started at Preferred Kitchens in June of 2008 after earning a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Minnesota.

“It is not just my occupation, but a part of me. I put my heart and soul into each day, each customer, each project.” In 2021, Christen and her husband Jacob took over ownership of the business.

In the office, Christen says there is no executive space. “We are all in one shared room. Conversations and challenges are in

“As in any family, there is occasional yelling. Always done respectfully and with shared passion for the best outcome for our clients.”

Preferred Kitchens recently completed a new display area in the front of the showroom along with fresh updates throughout the space.

“As we look back and celebrate our 40th anniversary, we look forward to the next 40 years,” said Vice President/Operations Manager Jacob Kriesel. “We will continue working on getting better at what we do every day and never forget who ultimately got us to where we are today as a cornerstone business in the White Bear Lake community. You are our customers, you are our friends, you are our family.”

Life of Martin Luther King honored at community breakfast

ICE activity disrupts local businesses, prompts response

BY MAYA BETTI NEWS INTERN

As thousands of federal agents are deployed in and around the metro area, locals have come to find the doors to their favorite restaurants and businesses shuttered. Some are covered in handwritten Post-it notes saying things like “We are here for you” and “We miss you.”

Beyond those doors, owners and staff wrestle with uncertainty as they navigate what’s next for their business.

Raúl Jacobi, co-owner of Mi Causa Restaurant & Bar, described the impact on his family-owned business. His Burnsville location opened in August 2025, and his White Bear Township location just opened its doors in December, so recent activity has put him and his staff in a difficult position.

“The recent actions by ICE have directly impacted the heart of our business,” wrote Jacobi to the White Bear Press. His email was translated into English.  “It’s not just about numbers or sales; it's about people.”

“They’re

He said staff are experiencing anxiety about coming to work.

“They’re afraid of being detained simply for going to their jobs. Others, while still coming in, are doing so with a level of stress we've never seen before.”

ties. In Circle Pines, residents and business owners have also rallied around those affected by recent ICE activity.

On Jan. 14, ICE agents detained a legally employed worker at Pancho’s Taqueria. Footage of the incident shows two plain-dressed agents cornering the worker while he retrieved something from a storage unit behind the restaurant.

The agents then grabbed him and threw him to the ground before taking him to Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis. Within 12 hours, he was in a processing facility in El Paso, Texas.

Icarus Chase, son of Pancho’s owner Frank Chase, was able to respond quickly only because they witnessed the detention.

“If he had been taken from somewhere else, it might have been days before anyone even realized what happened to him or where he was,” he said. In response to the detainment, the owners launched a GoFundMe to cover legal fees and lost wages for the worker, identified as Kevin in the campaign. Chase said those costs can run upwards of $20,000 just for a lawyer and bail.

afraid of being detained simply for going to their jobs. Others, while still coming in, are doing so with a level of stress we’ve never seen before.”

Raúl Jacobi

Co-owner, Mi Causa Restaurant & Bar

Jacobi added that customers are also avoiding public spaces out of fear, leading to minimal sales and reduced hours.

At a local day care in Washington County, which asked to remain unnamed due to fear of repercussions, staff have faced harassment while legally at work. This has resulted in the day care’s closure for several days. Earlier in January, one of their staff members was nearly detained by ICE while dropping off their son at the bus stop.

“They said, ‘Well, because you're here with your son, we're going to let you go,’” the owner of the day care said.

The staff member is a legal U.S. resident, according to the owner.

In an effort to protect both the staff and families of the day care, some of their community members have since mobilized a response team, assembling transportation plans, observer lists and volunteer escorts.

“People were extraordinarily generous in donating time, money and resources to support one another,” said the owner. “It's the most beautiful thing I have ever experienced in my whole life. It's just very positive,” the owner said.

A similar sense of solidarity has been shared among neighboring communi-

Within days, the fundraiser raised just over $25,000 before they chose to close it, hoping that support could go to others as well. Along with donations, hundreds of restaurant-goers wrote in to Pancho’s, giving their support.

“Truthfully, (it’s) one of the few things that is keeping us moving forward,” Chase said. “Because people ask us a lot how we're doing and the honest answer (is), we’re not great.”

While the restaurant did reopen for business on Jan. 16, Chase said the detainment has left employees fearful of coming to work.

“The only people who have been able to work since this happened are 100% U.S. citizens, because nobody else feels comfortable coming here,” Chase said. “It’s not even about missing one person; it’s about people scared to leave their homes.”

According to Chase, it seems likely that Kevin will be released. However, he wants people to understand that legal status does not guarantee safety, and those who are detained are often left with a significant financial burden.

“The negative comments that I've seen come through, a lot of them have been, ‘Well, if he's a legal citizen, he has nothing to worry about,’ and that’s just not true,” Chase said. “Yes, he’ll probably be released — but only because someone in his life was in a position to help take on that huge financial burden.”

GYMNASTICS

Mahtomedi won its final home meet, over North/Tartan 134.925 to 127.450, remaining unbeaten (4-0) in the Metro East. Sydney Johnson of North/Tartan won all-around with 35.90. Mahtomedi’s Lucy Otto was second (33.875) and Addi Eitel fourth (31.60). On vault, Eitel placed second (8.875) with Otto third (8.750). Cassia Hartman won bars (8.50) and Lily Bush placed third (8.075). Eitel and North/ Tartan’s Kayley Hang tied for first on balance beam, each scoring 8.675. Otto was fourth (8.20). Otto was second on floor exercise (9.225) behind Johnson. Margo Bruner was third (9.025) and Adele Schroeder fourth (8.725).

WRESTLING

Mahtomedi tied Two Rivers 35-35 and defeated Tartan 56-18. Winning against Two Rivers were

Elizabeth Carlson (pin) at 107, Aidan Carlson (11-2) at 127, Mac Schultz (pin) at 139, Henry Johnson (pin) at 152, Aidan Boex (13-3) at 172, Andrew Moran (pin) at 215 and Knox Dunbar (62) at 285. Winning against Tartan were Aidan Carlson (pin), Schultz (92), Lucas Iverson (19-4) at 145, Owen Eigen (pin) at 160, Boex (pin), and Sam White (pin) at 189. The Zephyrs had four forfeit wins.

GIRLS HOCKEY

Roseville-Mahtomedi (10-10-1) pulled out a 2-1 upset of Stillwater (15-51). The Marauders lost to Forest Lake 2-0.

BOYS HOCKEY

Mahtomedi is 9-6-2 after picking up two wins last week. The Zephyrs won 2-1 over Holy Angels (9-5) on goals by Vinny Redpath and Devin O’Donnell (power play), with assists by O’Donnell

GYMNASTICS

White Bear Lake scored a season-best 135.5 but Park was one point better at 136.55 on Thursday evening. Grace Mueller placed second all-around with 34.625, on floor (9.25, personal best) and on vault (9.25). Harlie Peloquin was fourth all-around (33.825), third on bars (8.225, highlighted by a bail release from high to low bar) and tied Mira McQuay for third on floor (each 8.8, personal bests). Taylynne McMahon was second on beam (8.85) and fourth on bars (8.175).

SWIMMING & DIVING

White Bear Lake lost meets to Roseville Area and Mounds View last week. Event winners against Roseville were Henry Bowlin in diving (185.75), Ethan Arrigone in the 500 free (5:43.57), and Benedict Hoefer in the 100 free (51.03). Against Mounds View, Hoefer won the 200 free (1:54.50) and 100 free (50.40). Placing second were Sam Tarau, medley; Dylan Allshouse, butterfly; and Finnian McVeigh, breaststroke.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake won 57-39 over Irondale at home, led by Chloe Thiessen with 20 points. Maddy Thompson added 11 points and Lauryn Setterlund six. The Bears (6-10) made ten 3-pointers, four by Thiessen, three by Thompson, two by Setterlund and one by Amelia Post. The Bears lost to Roseville 60-46. Maddie Sundberg scored 23 for the Raiders (11-3). Theissen had 10 points, Sophie Menier nine, and Thompson and Freya Sanders eight each.

BOYS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake is 3-10 after losses to Roseville Area 51-43, Irondale 60-56 and Rochester Mayo 59-51. Colin Piper and Nick Cardenas each sank 19 points against Irondale.

GIRLS HOCKEY

White Bear Lake (6-14-1) tripped

Cretin-Derham Hall 2-1 on Wednesday with Lyla Beck netting her first two goals of the season.  Assisting were Paige Downey and Isabelle Meiers. Bear goalie Macie Marston made 36 saves. The Bears lost to Blaine 6-1

and Trevor Rogosheske. Jackson Chesak made 18 saves as the Zephyrs (9-62) outshot the hosts 31-19. The Zephyrs downed South St. Paul 5-1, outshooting the Packers 59-12. Redpath notched two goals and Blake Bentz, Zach Zins and Will Seevers one apiece. The Zephyrs are 3-0-2 in the Metro East.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Mahtomedi defeated North St. Paul 67-18, then absorbed lopsided losses to Two Rivers 7737 and Delano 73-27. The Zephyrs are 5-11. Against North, Grace Prose had 20 points and four steals, Delaney Dumermuth 15 points, 14 rebounds and three blocks, and Mira Nelson seven points, 10 rebounds and three steals. Prose had 21 points against Two Rivers.

Bruce Strand

Saturday. Madeline Lee had the Bears goal, short-handed.

WRESTLING, BOYS

White Bear Lake won the Park Center tournament Saturday. Top three teams among 15 were the Bears with 133.5, Osakis 115 and Maple Grove 112.5. Placing first for the Bears were Indiana Kane at 121 pounds and Galvin Nathanson at 139, each pinning a Rock Ridge opponent in the finals. Placing third were Muayeng Lee at 114 and Joseph Smaker at 160. Placing fifth were Donovin Wolfgram at 152 and Alex Semelis at 189. Alexander Davids was sixth at 172, Asher Ludwig sixth at 145, Alexander Kringle seventh at 215 and Nickolai Mulligan eighth at 133. In dual meets, the Bears lost to Woodbury Area 51-24 and beat Roseville Area 6111 on Thursday at Roseville. Wolfgram and Semelis each won twice.

WRESTLING, GIRLS

White Bear Lake placed third of 15 teams in the Park Center tournament. Top three teams were South St. Paul with 164, Annandale/Maple Lake 125.5, and the Bears 114, Placing first were Isabelle Kane at 130 and Dominique Demanou at 148, each with three pins. Kane was named Outstanding Wrestler. Placing third were Talliah Swims at 170 and Kinnley Jensen at 190. Placing fourth were Amber Pax at 100, Calli Lacktorin at 124, and Tessa Moen at 136.

NORDIC SKI

The Bears Nordic teams have competed in meets at  Battle Creek, Giants Ridge, Hyland Park Reserve and Mora Vosaloppet Center. The boys have been led by senior captain Joe Rogers and junior captains James Bowen and Cason Juergens, followed closely by sophomores Ben Rogers and Lachlan Ellison. For the girls, sophomore Brigid McVeigh consistently places in the top 10, followed by senior captains Irene Bakke, Lydia Moore, and Grace Reeves. At Hyland, McVeigh was 10th and Bakke 15th. The Bears have one more meet before conference Jan. 28-29 and sectionals Feb. 5.

Bruce Strand

Roelofs passes 1,000 points

Willie Roelofs poured in 43 points — and went over 1,000 in his career — as Mahtomedi boys basketball defeated Two Rivers 72-54 on Friday evening.  Roelofs shot 17-for-26 on field goals and 8-for-9 on free shots, and nabbed 10 rebounds. With his 36th point he reached 1,000. The 6-foot-8 junior had a 40-point effort five games earlier against South St. Paul. He’s averaging 22.4 points.

Mark Graff had 12 points, five assists and three steals, and Noah Carlson seven rebounds, six assists

and three steals. Two Rivers made 11 three-pointers and kept it close until four minutes left. Mahtomedi, ranked No. 6 in Class 3A, is 11-2 after a 3-0 week. The Zephyrs beat St. Anthony Village 61-50 on Tuesday with Graff hitting 24 points, Carlson 15 and Roelofs 10, and beat North St. Paul 81-39 on Wednesday as Roelofs netted 25 points, Carlson 11, Graff 10, and Mo Mouacheupao eight.

Bruce Strand

Bear icemen have won 5 of last 6

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake hockey had a strong week, starting with a close loss to conference leader Cretin-Derham Hall (CDH), followed by home wins over Forest Lake and Mounds View. The Bears are 8-7-1, winning five of their last six.

Against CDH, the Bears had the lead three times at Highland Arena on a goal by Magnus Benz and two by Liam Maloy. The Raiders’ Max Thompson tied it up in the third period at 13:24 and Maverick Timmons gave them a 4-3 win, scoring with 14 seconds left. Bear goalie Riley Helmberger made 32 saves.

The Bears defeated Forest Lake 7-2 Thursday, powered by Benz with four goals. Also scoring were Tanner Olsen, Wyatt Raleigh (short-handed) and Nash Roed (power play). Roed assisted on four goals. Helmberger made 27 saves. Against Mounds View, the Bears punctured the nets for a 15-1 win

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Isabelle Kane

White Bear Lake Wrestling January 21, 2026

Isabelle “Izzy” Kane, White Bear Lake junior wrestling cocaptain, was named Outstanding Wrestler at the 15-school Park Center tournament Saturday after pinning all three opponents to win the 130-pound title. Kane is 20-9 for the season with 18 pins. “Izzy is extremely dedicated and hard-working,” head coach Jeffrey Isaac said, “and it has shown as she continues to shine. She is an outstanding leader, and an asset to the growth of girls wrestling in the area.” Added girls coach Jon Shellenberger, “We are proud of the example Izzy sets for her team. She has reached a new level as a competitor.”

Mariner officially declared ‘School of Excellence’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Two years after a really big change, Mariner Middle School has been named a Minnesota School of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA).

The honor recognizes a two-year journey of reflection, learning and growth grounded in six standards of effective schools. Those standards include the demonstration of learning-centered, diverse communities, school culture, quality instruction, knowledge and data, and community engagement.

Christina Pierre has been a principal in White Bear Area Schools for 11 years. She was previously principal at Sunrise Middle School and moved over to Mariner two years ago when

Sunrise merged with Mariner at former South Campus.

Mariner is part of the principals’ associations for both elementary and secondary. Pierre explained that she heard about the Schools of Excellence recognition through the elementary level and said she was excited about the chance for self-study.

“It’s the opportunity to look intensely at everything we do,” she said. “We get to hold ourselves to this standard of excellence, approaching excellence or moving toward excellence, and I thought that was really exciting.”

The process emphasizes that excellence is not a destination— it’s a continuous process of improvement.

“The whole idea of being a School of Excellence is being committed to constantly improving, because excellence isn't something you ever arrive

Did you know?

Otter Lake Elementary has also been named a 2025-2026 Minnesota School of Excellence. Otter Lake received the designation for its innovative programs and commitment to real-world learning.

“I am so incredibly excited and proud that Otter Lake Elementary has been honored as a Minnesota School of Excellence!” said Principal Angela Nelson. “This recognition is a testament to what can be achieved when school staff and community come together to help each and every student succeed. I am honored to serve the Otter Lake Community, and I am so proud of the talented, hardworking and dedicated staff who I get to work alongside each day.”

Otter Lake celebrated the recognition earlier this fall during an event to celebrate the opening of the new playground.

at. It's something that you are constantly working toward. Continuous improvement is definitely a theme for us at Mariner.”

MESPA said a few things that stuck out about Mariner are the school’s commitment to staff growth, responsive leadership and student succuss. Over the past two years, the school has had a focus on professional development for its staff and staff members worked together to draft and agree to the school’s first-ever charter.

Pierre explained that everything the school does is tailored to the needs of the students. “We identified what is it that our students need and then what do our educators need in order to serve those needs in our students, and then we build the professional development around that,” she explained.

Staff split up into several committees all focused on different goals. For example, one committee was focused on student engagement. Pierre noted the committees were all led by staff rather than administrators.

The staff charter is a collective set of “I will” statements that the staff all agreed to abide by. Pierre says the document couldn’t have happened at a more perfect time. “There’s over 100 adults working at Mariner; we have to find a way to be able to support each other and make sure that we're not working at cross purposes,” she said. “So developing this staff charter and including the whole staff in developing that

was really critical.”

The agreement includes things like putting students at the forefront of decision-making; listening to understand and inviting all voices into dialogues; striving for equitable division of labor among colleagues; supporting colleagues’ well-being; and seeking support when needed.

So, what now? Staff have recommitted to that staff charter, and this year, Pierre says the school is refocusing on instruction, specifically the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program.

“Writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization and reading. Those are the five key pieces that we are really focusing on this year and really helping teachers to remember what are the things that you could be doing in your class every day that

engages a student … We know that those are the things that are going to continue to make them successful throughout their educational career and in their actual careers.”

Sometimes, Pierre says middle schools can be “forgotten,” so being deemed a School of Excellence reassures all the staff at Mariner that they are “doing this right.”

“I know Mariner is a really good school, but to have it publicly recognized that we are doing the things that make an excellent school … it is a point of pride for our students and families.”

For more information, visit https://mespa.net.

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