January/February 2020

“Always be a first rate version of yourself instead of a second rate version of somebody else.” ­—Judy Garland

We’ve got some first rate folks in this issue!

Solid Ground, a nonprofit based in White Bear Lake, celebrated its 30th anniversary with a gala on October 11.

 
An impressionist gouache painting of a tricycle, painted by White Bear Lake Area High School student Lynn Fastner

A White Bear Lake Area High School Student discovers gouache.

 
The Up In Smoke food truck in White Bear Lake

Brian Cox’s “Up In Smoke” food truck ignites the White Bear Lake food scene.

 
Ember Island

Four White Bear Lake Area high school students joined together to form Ember Island, a folk/classic rock band.

 
A room staged by Sorted Affairs Home Staging

Robin LeVine of Sorted Affairs Home Staging gives tips on beautifying for selling or staying.

 
Georgia Reding and Dan Prather in costume for The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee Musical at Century College

Century College’s theater department was founded 51 years ago and has since thrived as a vibrant part of the college experience for many students.

 
Teri Schifsky and Grace Newman, who inspired a new mental health program at Mahtomedi Public Schools

Two Girl Scouts inspired the district's change in approach to mental wellness.

 
Fort Snelling

White Bear Lake resident Kent Whitworth shares his take on the Fort Snelling naming controversy.

 
Minnesota hockey icon Henry Boucha

Hockey icon Henry Boucha finds himself in his Ojibwa heritage.

 
Ice boats on White Bear Lake

White Bear Lake resident Bill Eaves’ photo Ice Boats took first place in the Activities and Events category of our 2019 Lens on the Lake photo contest.

 
A Nordic toddy and aquavit old-fashioned, cocktail recipes from Elevated Beer Wine & Spirits White Bear Lake

Cocktail suggestions from Elevated Beer Wine & Spirits.

 
Sgt. John Vetter of the White Bear Lake Police Department

The citizens academy gives participants an inside view of the White Bear Lake Police Department.