Summer Fun by ECM Publishers

Publishers of the St. Croix Valley Peach, Forest Lake Times, and ECM Post Review

Community Guide

2012

A Guide to Entertainment in the Anoka, Chisago & Washington County Areas A Special Supplement to:

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Summer Fun 2012

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Summer Fun 2012

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Contents Forest Lake 4th of July Celebration.................................. 6

Chisago County Fair.......................................................... 21

Running Aces Harness Track............................................ 9

Wildlife Science Center.................................................... 23

Golf Courses....................................................................... 10

Town Celebrations............................................................. 24

Schedule of Events & Activities................................ 12-13

Wild River State Park........................................................ 26

Forest Lake Arts in the Park............................................ 14

Area Parks........................................................................... 28

Gammelgarden Museum.................................................. 16

Area Parades....................................................................... 36

Franconia Sculpture Park................................................. 17

Rush City Aquatic Center/Fish Lake Beach................. 38

Masquers Theatre.............................................................. 19

Pick Your Own Strawberries........................................... 40

Fawn-Doe-Rosa.................................................................. 20

Lake 5 Theatre “Werewolves”......................................... 42

Index of Advertisers Abra Auto Body................................................................19

Petstyles..............................................................................31

Advanced Dermatology Care.......................................... 3

Pleasant Valley Orchard................................................... 8

American Legion Forest Lake.......................................14

Rolseth Drug.....................................................................41

Carousel Hair Care............................................................ 6

Roxy’s Total Image...........................................................20

Chamber of Commerce Forest Lake.............................. 6

Rush City Aquatic Center..............................................37

City of Forest Lake - Farmer’s Market........................... 3

SRC Transfer Station & Recycle Center......................31

City of Forest Lake - Arts in the Park..........................43

School District #831 Community Education.............22

Dance Tech........................................................................33

Security State Bank of Marine........................................ 3

Forest Hills Golf Club.....................................................10

St. Croix Regional Medical Center...............................15

Forest Lake Sanitation....................................................41

Sunborn Stables.................................................................. 4

Gordy’s Pharmacy............................................................20

Tasty Asia............................................................................. 2

Green Door Consignment Company...........................31

The Berry Patch...............................................................40

Hitch It...............................................................................40

Timeless Elements Med Spa..........................................27

Kramer Mechanical........................................................... 8

Town & Country Disposal.............................................33

Leroux’s All Season........................................................25

VFW Post 4210 Forest Lake............................................ 8

Lindstrom Thrifty White...............................................37

Wilcox Automotive..........................................................44

Olsons Sewer Service........................................................ 4

Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity...............................22

Osceola Medical Center.................................................30

Wine & Roses Liquor........................................................ 6

Welcome Carol Lehnen, Steve Rajtar and Mary Eslinger are the advertising consultants for the Summer Fun Guide. Carol & Steve can be reached at (651) 464-4601 and Mary is at (651) 442-7117. For advertising opportunities call Steve Rajtar at (651) 464-4601 or email to: steve.rajtar@ecm-inc.com. ©2012 ECM Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. This book may not be reproduced in any way without written permission of ECM Publishers, Inc.

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Summer Fun 2012

88th annual 4th of July celebration starts June 29 in Forest Lake American Legion Post 225 will have 6 days of fun

six-day Fourth of July celebration is shaping up in Forest Lake this summer. American Legion Post 225, now in its 90th year, will sponsor its 88th annual Independence Day celebration. The celebration opens on Friday, June 29 and will run for six days, culminating with fireworks over First Lake at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. “Freedom — The American Dream” is the theme for this year’s celebration. Legion Post 225 will be celebration headquarters with carnival rides, the bingo tent, live dance music and plenty of food options. The celebration culuminates on July 4th with the 10 a.m. parade along its traditional route on W. Broadway Ave. (CR-2) and Lake Street (US-61) through the downtown business district. The parade route is being announced based on early information that the Broadway road project will be completed in order for the parade to follow its start from the north and south feeder streets that connect to Broadway at 6th Street.

Grand marshal for the 88th parade is World War II Army Air Corps veteran Ed Hinrichs. Honorary grand marshals are Harold and Delores Lang and Pete and Ann Pohl. Harold and Pete are also World War II vets. 2012 Events A full six days is planned for the annual celebration. Magel’s Midway will have its carnival rides and concessions in action on the Legion grounds, 355 W. Broadway Ave. The Sons of the American Legion with volunteer help is directing the bingo tent operation. Voiture 44 40 et 8 is manning the beer garden at Post 225. The schedule follows below. Friday, June 29 •Miller High Life and KQRS radio morning DJ Brian Zepp will be at Post 225 for a “Salute the Troops” promotion from 5-7 p.m. The Miller Girls will also take part in the event.

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July – See Page 7

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4th of July

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•Bingo, 2-8 p.m. •Carnival, 6 p.m. to midnight, $20 wristbands for unlimited rides, 6-10 p.m. •Live music featuring the Jackson Blues Band, 8 p.m. to midnight. Saturday, June 30 •Bingo, 2-8 p.m. •Carnival, noon to midnight, $20 wristbands for unlimited rides, 1-5 p.m. •Live music featuring JD Hunter Band, 8 p.m. to midnight. Sunday, July 1 •Bingo, 2-8 p.m. •Carnival, noon to 10 p.m., $20 wristbands for unlimited rides, 1-5 p.m. Monday, July 2 •Bingo, 6-10 p.m. •Carnival, noon to 10 p.m., $20 wristbands for unlimited rides, 6-10 p.m. Tuesday, July 3 •Bingo, 6 p.m. to midnight. •Carnival, noon to midnight, $20 wristbands for unlimited rides, 1-5 p.m. •Live music featuring Shake Down and TJ and DJ, 8 p.m. to midndight. Wednesday, July 4 •Parade, 10 a.m. •Bingo, noon to 8 p.m. •Carnival, noon to 10 p.m. •Fireworks, 10 p.m. over First Lake at Lakeside Memorial Park. The Fourth of July celebration is sponsored in part by public donations and community fund-raisers. At Post 225, the 950 members who make up the American Legion, Legion Auxiliary Unit 225, the Sons of the American Legion, Voiture 44 and the American Legion Riders provide the volunteer labor needed to carry out the celebration.

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There will be plenty to see in Forest Lake from fireworks to many colorful parade units as American Legion Post 225 conducts its 88th annual Independence Day celebration. The celebration starts on June 29 and wraps up on July 4.

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Summer Fun 2012

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Vintage war planes from the World War II and Korea areas buzzed the Forest Lake parade route in 2011.

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Running Aces celebrates five seasons of fun Live harness races go through Labor Day at Columbus horse track

he horses are off and running in Columbus. Running Aces Harness Park’s fifth season of live racing opened June 6 and runs through Labor Day, Sept. 3. The 2012 schedule features 50 race nights. Post time is 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and 6 p.m. on Sundays. Between eight and 11 races will be on each card at the 5/8-mile track. “We are excited about moving forward to our fifth season of live standardbred racing,” said general manager Bob Farinella. “With increased purses, we anticipate plentiful participation and lots of great competitive racing.” As always, admission for the live racing is free. There are daily specials on food and drink, as well as promotions and giveaways throughout the racing calendar. Outdoor seating is plentiful, or fans can watch the action from the indoors racing lounge. Running Aces also simulcasts events from other tracks, so customers can wager on races happening around the country. Simulcasting is offered daily from 11

a.m. to 11 p.m. The facility offers a 24-hour, 50-table card room featuring 25 casino games such as blackjack and pai gow. There are 25 poker tables which feature daily tournaments. The park’s restaurant, The Winner’s Circle, is open daily. The 250-seat facility, which overlooks the track’s finish line, features a Thursday night seafood buffet, a walleye dinner on Fridays, an all-you-can-eat special on Saturday nights, and a champagne Sunday brunch. In addition, Running Aces hosts live entertainment and offers catering and banquet facilities for private events. The park is located at 15201 Zurich Street NE in Columbus, just off Interstate 35. See www.runningacesharness.com or call (651) 925-4600 for more information. There is no racing on Wednesday, July 4, and the Labor Day program is in lieu of racing on Sunday, Sept. 2.

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Running Aces Harness Park brings big-city entertainment options close to home. The multi-million-dollar facility in Columbus offers live harness racing, a 24-hour card room and a restaurant.

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Many ways to get your golfing fix

Summer Fun 2012

From affordable public courses to private clubs, options abound

olf enthusiasts are not lacking for local options. From affordable public courses to professional private clubs, there are plenty of area venues at which to tee it up.

Castlewood Golf Course

7050 Scandia Trail North, Forest Lake 464-6233; www.castlewoodgolfcourse.com A nine-hole, 3,043-yard, par-36 public course. $15 for nine holes. Juniors: $11. Seniors: $13. Second nine for $10 more.

Chisago Lakes Golf Course

12975 292nd St., Lindstrom 257-1484; www.chisagolakesgolf.com An 18-hole, 6,215-yard, par-72 semi-private course with driving range. Weekdays: $28 for 18 holes, $16 for nine Weekends: $16-20/28-34. 18 and under: $15/$10 Seniors: $23/$15 Twilight rates available.

Chomonix Golf Club

700 Aqua Ln., Lino Lakes 482-8484; www.chomonix.com An 18-hole, 6,596-yard, par-72 public course with driving range. Weekdays: $18 for nine holes, $28 for 18 holes. Weekends: $20/$32. Juniors/Seniors: $15-17/$22-26

Countryside Golf Course

34491 Redwing Ave., Shafer 257-6387; www.countrysidegc.weebly.com A nine-hole, par-36 public course with driving range. Weekdays: $13/20 for 13+, $5-7/8-12 for children, $11/16 for seniors. Weekends: $15/22 for 13+, $711/12-14 for children, $13/20 for seniors.

Golf Courses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; See Page 11

Summer Fun 2012

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Golf Courses – From Page 10

Falcon Ridge Golf Course

33942 Falcon Ave. N., Stacy 462-5797; www.falconridgegolf.net An 18-hole, 6,011-yard, par-71 public course with driving range. Also offers a separate ninehole, 1,545 yard, par 29 executive course. Daily: $13 for nine holes, $19 for 18 holes. Seniors: $11/$16.

Forest Hills Golf Club

7530 210th St N., Forest Lake 464-3097; www.foresthillsgc.com An 18-hole, 6,514-yard, par-72 private course. Call General Manager/PGA Head Professional Brian Steinke for membership details.

Krooked Kreek Golf Course

2448 County Rd. M., Osceola (715) 294-3673; www.krookedkreek.com An 18-hole, 6,401-yard, par-72 public course with driving range. Weekdays: $16 for nine holes, $25 for 18 holes Weekends: $20/$32. Juniors/Seniors: $11/$18

Majestic Oaks Golf Club

701 Bunker Lane Blvd. NE, Ham Lake (763) 755-2140; www.majesticoaksgolfclub.com • 18-hole, 7,073 yard, par 72 Signature Course • 18-hole, 6,396 yard, par 72 Crossroads Course Weekdays: $17-20 for nine holes, $28-34 for 18 holes Weekends: $17-20/$34-40. Juniors/Seniors: $20/22 for 18 holes • Nine-hole, 1,677 yard, par 29 Executive Course Daily: $12. Seniors: $10. Juniors: $7. Early-bird and twilight rates available. • Driving range

North Branch Golf Course

38585 Forest Blvd., North Branch 674-9989; www.nbgolfcourse.com A nine-hole, 2,948 yard, par 35 public course. Daily: $13 for nine holes, $20 for 18 holes Juniors/Seniors: $10/$15

St. Croix Valley Golf Course

2200 US Highway 8, Saint Croix Falls, WI (715) 483-3377 A nine-hole, 3,056-yard, par-36 public course. Dailey: $13 for nine holes, $22 for 18 holes Juniors/Seniors: $10/15.

Tanners Brook Golf Club

5810 North 190th St., Forest Lake 464-2300; www.tannersbrook.com An 18-hole, 6,887-yard, par-71 public course with driving range. Weekdays: $17 for nine holes, $30 for 18 holes Weekends: $20/$35. 17 & under: $10/$18. Twilight and evening rates available.

Viking Meadows Golf Club

1788 Viking Blvd. NE, East Bethel (763) 434-4205; www.vikingmeadows.com • 18-hole, 6,428 yard, par 72 Meadows Course Weekdays: $17 for nine holes, $24 for 18 holes Weekends: $19/$29. Juniors/Seniors: $15/$21. • Nine-hole, 1,655 yard, par 30 Woods Course Daily: $10. Weekend twilight rate available. • Driving range

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Summer Fun 2012

2012 Area Events & Activities May-October Scandia Gammelgarden celebrating 40th year a museum of Swedish immigration with a half dozen furnished buildings from the mid 19th century. 651.433.5053 gammelgardenmuseum.org/ June-September 3 - (Wednesday-Sunday) Wednesday-Sunday Chisago City Ironhorse Central Bumblebee train rides 651.357.3394 ironhorsecentral.com June 12-September 25 Forest Lake Farmers Market 651.209.9723 June 13-August 15 - (Wednesdays) Lindstrom Harmony in the Lions Park 651.257.0620 June 15-October - (Fridays) Chisago City Farmers Market 2-6pm June 19-August 28 - (Tuesdays) Forest Lake Arts in the Park Summer Concert Series June 20 Franconia Sculpture Park Summer Solstice Celebration dining with resident artists & dancing to the disco ball 651.257.6668 franconia.org June 21–August 18 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre “Man of La Mancha” festivaltheatre.org June 22 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre “Tish Hinojosa” festivaltheatre.org June 23 Scandia Midsommar Dag (Midsummer Day) dance around the Majstang and celebrate the summer with us, arts and crafts festival 651.433.5053 June 23 Lindstrom Midsommer Dag (Midsummer Day) Kichi Sago Nyheter (Karl Oskar House) June 24- September 23 - (Sundays) 2-4 pm Scandia Bluegrass and lemonade in the shade June 26-28; July 10-12 and July 17-19 Taylors Falls Historical Society Pioneer School A Days in the Life of a Pioneer 651.465.6806 July 27-29 Centerville Fete des Lacs parade, 8K walk/run, 10 mi. inline skate race, half mi. fun run 651.429.3232 June 29-July 4 Forest Lake 4th of July Event parade, carnival, fireworks, food, refreshments, bingo, entertainment Forest Lake American Legion Post 225 651.464.2600

July Forest Lake Masquers Theatre Fiddler on the Roof 651.464.5823 masquerstheatre.org July-August - (Wednesdays 3-6 p.m.; Saturdays 8-noon) Lindstrom Farmers Market 651.257.4414 July 5-8 Lindstrom Karl Oskar Days. Celebrating the Swedish heritage of the area, as well as Karl and Kristina Oskar (fictional characters created by Vilhem Moberg) snuff box treasure hunt, live entertainment, Queen coronation, tug-o-war, kiddy parade, bingo, fireworks, 5K loppet, car show, arts and crafts fair, street dance, trap shoot chisagolakeschamber.com 651.257.1177 July 6-August 17 - (Friday Nights) St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre Sew Good Improv Comedy festivaltheatre.org July 7-August 26 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre “Voice of the Prairie” festivaltheatre.org July 12-Aug 16 - (Thursdays) North Branch Concerts in the Park July 12-15 Rush City 140th Annual Chisago County Fair carnival, entertainment, talent show, parade, demolition derby, horse show, moto cross, tractor pull, chisagocountyfair.org 320.358.0296 July 19-21 Taylors Falls/St. Croix Falls, WI Wannigan Days talent show, food brew & wine court, street dance hydroelectric dam tours, crazy daze sales, block party, arts & crafts, car show, 5K fun run, log rolling & chopping, water ball station, tugo-war, Elvis Presley tribute, Festival Theatre youth musical performance, parade, fireworks, concert, street dance, pub crawl wannigandays.com 651.465.5133 June 20 Franconia Sculpture Park, Franconia Township Summer Solstice Celebration. 5pm-sunset Celebrate longest day of the year dining with resident artists & dancing to the disco ball 651.257.6668 info@franconia.org July 20-21 Almelund Relay for Life July 21 Chisago City Boy Scouts Pasta Dinner July 21-22 Chisago Lakes Triathlon 651.257.1177

Charlie O on stage July 4th in Forest Lake.

Scandia Midsommer Dag

Summer Fun 2012

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2012 Area Events & Activities July 21-August 5 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre Honk! (Summer Conservatory for Youth) festivaltheatre.org July 27-29 Center City Days ice cream social, craft fair, kids games, corn feed, pancake breakfast, kiddie parade, community picnic, live music 651.257.1177 chisagolakeschamber.com July 27-29 Centerville Fete des Lacs parade, 8K walk-run, 10 mi. inline skate race, half mile fun run 651.429.3232 July 28 Forest Lake Operation Independence II Ride 2012 ride leaves Running Aces Harness Park ending at North Branch American Legion Post 85 street dance, benefit Homes for our Troops thunderroadsmn.com August 1-15 - (Sunday & Wednesda nights) St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre Devise Theatre festivaltheatre.org August 7 Chisago Lakes Area National Night Out 651.257.5464 August 9 Lino Lakes Blue Heron Elementary Annual Safety Camp (local police & fire depts. Teach safety to kids ages 8&9 651.982.2440 ci-lino-lakes.mn.us August 10-12 Almelund Threshing Show demonstrations, tractor parade, tractor pull, entertainment, beer garden, flea market, exhibits 651.257.1264 almelundthreshingco.org August 12 Chisago City Sportsmen’s Club Picnic trap shooting, turtle race, horseshoes, cash prizes, food, refreshments, bingo come meet your neighbor August 17&18 Chisago City Frankie’s Bass Tournament 651.257.6334 August 17-19 Chisago City Ki-Chi-Saga Days sand castle contest, car show, parade, Little Miss Ki-Chi-Saga Contest, live music, craft fair, food vendors ci.chisago.mn.mn.us/ 651.257.5464 August 17-19 Lino Lakes Blue Heron Days parade, ambassador pageant, horseshoe tourney, picnic, treasure hunt, bike rodeo, street dance blueherondays.org August 18 Scandia Gammelgarden Spelmansstamma music festival celebrating the immigrant fiddle with musical entertainment, dancing and food 651.433.5053 August 25 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre “Scottie Miller Band” festivaltheatre.org August 30 Lindstrom Community Golf Tournament 651.257.1177 chisagolakeschamber.com September Wyoming Stagecoach Days wyomingmn.org September-October Chisago Lakes Area Leaf Spectacular September 1-October 31 Shafer Corn Maze shafercornmaze.com September 8 Scandia Taco Daze parade, arts and crafts, farmers market,

several tournaments/contests scandiamn.com September 8&9 Almelund Hay Days Snowmobile grass drags, swap, dealers, motorsports freestyle expo, beer gardens, food, remote controlled car racing snobarons.com September 8, October 13, November 10 & December 8 Scandia Gammelgarden Museum Annie’s Swedish Coffee Parties a traditional 3 course Swedish coffee party 651.433.5053 September 8-16 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre “The Trial of Tom Sawyer” festivaltheatre.org September 16 Almelund Amador Apple Festival 651.583.2883 September 22 10am-10pm Franconia Arts & Artist Celebration 651.257.6668 info@franconia.org September 22 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre “Ann Reed” festivaltheatre.org September 26-29 North Branch Fall Harvest Festival 651.674.4077 September 27-October 28 St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre “Playing with Fire” festivaltheatre.org September - (third weekend) Marine Art Fair third weekend in Sept. Marine on St. Croix multiple artists and craftspeople http://marine.govoffice. com October 6&7 Shafer Days Celebrate the past, present and future of Shafer. Royalty coronation, bingo, breakfast, vendors and crafters, car show, parade, 651.257.4726 shafermn.com October 6 St. Croix Falls, WI Autumn Fest arts, crafts, 1K, 5K, music, food, vendors, Theatre, childrens events 800.222.7655 cityofstcroixfalls.com October 13&14 Chisago City Ojiketa Art Blitz ci.chisago.mn.us October 19&20 Chisago City Ojiketa Haunt 651.257.5464 October 27 Forest Lake Wildlife Science Center Howl-o-ween trick or treating among the animals, wildlife scavenger hunt 651.464.3993 wildlifesciencecenter.org

Chisago County Fair Parade

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Summer Fun 2012

Lakeside Memorial Park in FL is the place to be on Tuesdays Gazebo stage acts, arts and crafts, summer produce

f you live within driving distance of Forest Lake, keep your Tuesday evening entertainment card open. Lakeside Memorial Park in downtown Forest Lake is the place to be. A full slate of activities are planned in the lakeside park as part of the annual Arts in the Park programming. Tuesday hours are 5-8:30 p.m. The nightly slate includes gazebo stage acts, arts and crafts sold by many talented artists, locally grown produce at the farmer’s market and numerous food vendors selling hot dogs, cotton candy, ice-cold sodas and water and barbecue pork sandwiches, to name but a few of the concession items. The Forest Lake Park Board program kicked off the 2012 season with a performance by the Rockin’ Hollywoods on June 8. The season continues all summer, concluding on Tuesday, Aug. 28 with a free corn feed and the music of Fresh Squeezed Country. Three of the Tuesday evening entertainment acts this summer have been billed as “Kids Night.” Stage acts start at

6 p.m. on these Tuesday nights. The first official Tuesday night Arts in the Park was Tuesday, June 12. While the entertainment slate and the craft sales end on August 28, the Farmers Market will continue on Tuesday nights through September. Gazebo Entertainment The following is a list of the summer entertainment schedule. •June 19, Alphas Bits at 6 p.m. and the Barbary Coast Dixieland Band at 7 p.m. •June 26, Lehto & Wright, 7 p.m. •July 3, Bullseye, 7 p.m. •July 10, The Wax Tones, 7 p.m. •July 17, Teddy Bear Band, 6 p.m. and Rich and the Resisters, 7 p.m. •July 24, Savanna Blue, 7 p.m. •July 31, Riverside Swing Band, 7 p.m. •August 7, Bavarian Musikmeisters, 7 p.m.

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Arts in the Park

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•August 14, Magician Brian Richards, 6 p.m. and BBB Jazz Orchestra, 7 p.m. •August 21, Jeff Brooks, 7 p.m. •August 28, Fresh Squeezed Country. Special Events There are other special events planned on the gazebo stage this summer at Lakeside Memorial Park. Two special concerts are planned on Wednesday, July 4 leading up to American Legion Post 225’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display over First Lake at 10 p.m. Shake Down will perform at 5:30 p.m. on July 4th followed by local singer-musician Charlie O who will take the stage for his fireworks concert at 8 p.m. The park is also the setting for Sunday worship services. The congregation of Hosanna Lutheran Church conducts a 9 a.m. worship service every Sunday in June, July and August at the park. Arts in the Park is sponsored by the Forest Lake Park Board and is funded, in part, by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund as appropriated by the State Legislature with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on Nov. 4, 2008. For more information on Arts in the Park, visit www. forestlakeparks.net.

Courtesy Photo

The lively Bullseye band will perform on the Forest Lake Arts in the Park gazebo stage on Tuesday, July 3. The snappy BBB Jazz Orchestra takes the stage on Tuesday, Aug. 14. Both acts perform at 7 p.m.

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Traditional Swedish events make Scandia a must-see summer stop

Summer Fun 2012

Gammelgarden Museum is a place to visit

t’s an easy 11-mile drive from Forest Lake to Scandia on TH-97. For those who like history, a visit to Scandia can be like stepping into a time machine. There are many historical reasons to visit Scandia and Gammelgården Museum is at the top of the list. A full spring and summer slate event have been planned at the museum located in the Elim Lutheran Church campus, south of the Elim Church Cemetery. The many reasons to visit Gammelgården Museum this summer. The season events commenced on May 27 with “Immigrant for a Day,” a free event for families as part of the Minnesota Museum Month. Other Events Many other events will take place this spring and summer. The Scandia Community Market is open from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesdays. Visitors can join Gammelgården staff from mid-June through October on Wednesday evenings for a farmers and craft market hosted on the Gammelgården’s grounds. The museum will provide themed children’s activities during these evenings and the Butik will be open. The major event of the summer is also drawing near and a time to celebrate at Gammelgården Museum. The Midsommar Dag celebration is slated on Saturday, June 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This annual traditional Swedish festival grows each year. Join the staff at Gammelgården for a free family event of music, food, dancing and more! Bluegrass and Lemonade in the Shadeis offered to the public on the fourth Sunday afternoon of each month from 2-4 p.m. Visitors can enjoy bluegrass music and are welcome to bring their own instrument and join in! The event is a lazy, relaxing way to spend a lovely summer day. Lek Stuga “Little Playhouse” Gammelgården’s Story Time for children takes place on Wednesday mornings from 10:30-11:30 a.m. starting on July 11 through August 15. Participants are invited to stay for a picnic and time in the playground for a quick summer get-away. Comin to Amerika; Gammelgården popular day camp for elementary children gives children the experience of living as an immigrant in the 1850’s. Two sessions are offered on July 17-19 or August 7-9. Registration is taking place now. Information and forms on our website: http://www. gammelgardenmuseum.org/amerika.shtm. New this year at Gammelgården is Girls and Dolls Tea Party. The activity is a fancy tea party for girls and their dolls. The event is for girls and dolls of all ages! Dates and Reservation information can be found on the

Gammelgården website: http://www.gammelgardenmuseum.org/girlsanddolls.shtm. August, Fall Events As the summer wains, August events are also planned. Spelmanstämma has an added twist this year: Star Gazing with WCCO radio’s Mike Lynch will come to Gammelgården Museum on Saturday, Aug. 18 for a night under the stars. The public is invited to come for the afternoon of music and stay for the stars! This is a free event for families with music, food for purchase and activities for children. Annie’s Swedish Coffee Parties are back in the fall beginning on Saturday Sept. 8. This Gammelgården favorite is based on Scandia’s own Annie Johnson, the longest resident at the old small farm that became Gammelgården Museum. The party is a unique and tasty way to celebrate a special event or just to enjoy a morning with friends. More information is on the Gammelgården website: http://www.gammelgardenmuseum.org/coffeeparty. shtm Watch for details on more events planned the fall! That 11-mile drive east of Forest Lake is a way to build memories that will last a lifetime!

Forest Lake Times File Photos

There will be plenty of Swedish dancing and lots of colorful costumes during the annual summer celebration on Saturday, June 23 at Gammelgarden Museum in Scandia.

Summer Fun 2012

Many events at Franconia Sculpture Park

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On U.S. Highway 8 near Shafer

t will be a busy summer of music, art and hot metal at the Franconia Sculpture Park. The summer of 2012 will be an opportunity to get in touch with your wild side at Franconia Sculpture Park. With new events, a new batch of ambitious artists and fresh talent performing in the Earthen Amphitheater, Franconia will get your creative juices flowing. It’s just 45 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul— but a world away. Visitors are invited to bring the family for creative collaborations that run the gamut from sculpture to Shakespeare to salsa. There’s music, art and activities for all ages. Create a lasting memory with your loved ones by bringing them to Franconia. Admission to the park and to most events is free. For more information, visit franconia.org/events. html, call the park office at 651-257-6668, or email info@franconia.org. The park is located on US-8 between Shafer and Taylors Falls 2012 Events Come early to participate in events like these: •The 3-D Summer Concert Series started on June 9. The granite seating in the amphitheater warms up for basking in the sun, making this the perfect opportunity to relax there, take a tour of the park, break out a picnic dinner, and listen to great music. Concerts take place on the second and fourth Saturdays each month, from 5-9 p.m. Admission is free and open to everyone. (Full 3D concert schedule follows

event listings.) •Placing Poetry: A Poetry Studio Sculpture: A twoday event with poetry writing workshops, readings, theater and music, Friday, June 22, 2-4 p.m. and Saturday, June 23, 1-5 p.m., 3-D concert follows, 5-9 p.m. Poetry-writing workshops in conjunction with Bridget Beck’s newest sculpture, “Poetry Studio,” readings by Heid Erdrich, Wang Ping, Dobby Gibson and Ashley David. Flag-making on Saturday with the Kinship of Rivers project. Reservations required for poetry workshops. •Guided Tours: May-October. Public tours are available every Sunday at 2 p.m., and group tours are available by appointment. Free. •Kids Make Sculpture Workshops: New this year, three dates remain on Saturdays, June 16, July 21, and August 18,1-4 p.m. Kids (ages 5-18) work with Franconia resident artists to create their own sculptures. $25/ person. Reservations required. •Three Dimensional Symposia: May through October, second and fourth Thursday of each month, 8 p.m. Franconia artists and alumni converge at the park twice a month for 3-D Symposia. These evenings include a slide show of current work by resident and/or alumni artists, plus a freewheeling discussion between artists, critics, philosophers, poets, and you! Free. Dinner is at 6 p.m., and is available for $10 per person; reservations required.

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Summer Fun 2012

Franconia – From Page 17

Franconia Sculpture Park Photos

There will be plenty to see and hear this summer at the Franconia Sculpture Park near Shafer.

•Community Collaboration/Hot Metal Pour: Saturday, Aug. 4, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Experience the primal thrill of casting red hot molten metal as artists from around the U.S. create their iron sculptures. This event is free and open to all. Savage Aural Hotbed will perform at 12:30, 2:30, and 4 p.m. The public is also invited to create cast sculpture from a sand mold; mold prices are $25, $40, and $75, and reservations are recommended. There will be two free community mold-making workshops on July 29 from 1-4 p.m. and August 2, from 4-8 p.m.; reservations required. •16th Annual Franconia Art & Artists Celebration, Saturday, Sept. 22, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free event. A daylong festival celebrating the artists, the new sculpture installations, and the amazing community. A full day’s entertainment with artist-led tours, live music, dance, poetry, kids’ activities, and food, beer and wine. Concert Series The 3-D Summer Concert Series live performance schedule includes: •June 9: Kick-Off Celebration with City Pages 2011 Best New Bands Hastings 3000 and Phantom Tails. •June 23: Cromulent Shakespeare Company presents its own unique interpretation of theatrical masterworks, and Thea Ennen performs her award-winning folk tunes. •July 14: Jon Wayne and the Pain: a high-energy mix of reggae, rock and dubstep. •July 28: Tropical Zone Orchestra: TZO raises the roof with its full four piece horn section, playing classic Puerto Rican salsa and merengue you can dance to. •August 11: Kids Night: The funky sounds of The Undergroove, plus Randy the Frog Guy and Normonzo the Great. •August 25: 80’s Night! Music by Twin Cities favorite Apollo Cobra, plus the Michael Paul Duo.

•September 8: Atlantis Quartet: Modern jazz from the City Pages 2011 Best Jazz Artist. •September 22: 16th Annual Art and Artists Celebration – a full day’s line-up of entertainment •October 13: Squib – the St. Croix Valley’s favorite blues, funk and jam band. The 3-D Concert Series is funded, in part, by a grant from the East Central Regional Arts Council with funds provided by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008. For more information about the 3D Concert Series, as well as all park events, visit franconia.org/events. html, call the park office at 651-257-6668, or e-mailinfo@franconia.org. (Editor’s Note: Franconia Sculpture Park has forged a national identity as the Midwest’s premier outdoor sculpture park, offering a unique combination of work, residence, and exhibition space for emerging and established artists. Franconia’s mission is: To foster an inspiring environment for artists to expand their skills and to promote public education about three-dimensional art. The park encourages audience appreciation and participation in sculpture through dawn to dusk visiting hours, 365 days a year, and free admission in a relaxed, informal setting where people are invited to watch and talk with artists as they work. Donations are encouraged and always appreciated. Franconia Sculpture Park is supported in part by donations from the McKnight Foundation, Jerome Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, Hugh J. Andersen Foundation, L & N Andreas Foundation, Carolyn Foundation, Chisago Lakes Area Foundation, COMPAS, Constance Mayeron-Cowles and Charles Fuller Cowles Foundation, Dresser Trap Rock, the East Central Regional Arts Council with funds provided by the Minnesota State Legislature, the East Central Regional Arts Council with funds provided by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008, Eliot Street Fund, Greatmats.com, Harlan Boss Foundation for the Arts, Horncrest Foundation, HRK Foundation, Hynnek Fund of HRK Foundation, Pugsley Fund of HRK Foundation, Minneapolis Foundation, Minnesota State Arts Board through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature, Prospect Creek Foundation, Sage Cleveland Foundation, Slumberland, St. Croix Valley Community Foundation and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin, St. Paul Foundation, the Archie D. & Bertha H. Walker Foundation, Windgate Foundation, Woodrill Foundation, Woodbury Foundation, Anonymous, and many individual donors.)

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‘Fiddler on the Roof’ on Masquers Theatre Company stage for 14 performances At FLHS July 6-29

One of the most popular Broadway musicals of all time is coming to Masquers Theatre Company of Forest Lake this summer. The local theater group will present “Fiddler on the Roof ” on 14 show dates in July at the Forest Lake High School Theater Auditorium, 6101 Scandia Trail N. (TH-97). “Fiddler on the Roof ” became the Masquers signature stage production in its first year, 1977. Masquers capped its first summer season with the popular musical as its third show and final show which played before packed houses at the high school. The July production will mark the third time Masquers has produced “Fiddler.” The show was reprised in 1991 and returns again in 2012. Janice Roman will direct the summper production. Show Details The production will open the weekend of Friday through Sunday, July 6-8. The second week shows are on July 13-15. For the final two weeks of “Fiddler,” the production will be staged on Thursday through Sunday, July 19-22 and July 26-29.

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All Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening curtain times are 7 p.m. Sunday matinees will start at 2 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online at www.masquerstheatre.org, by voicemail at 651-464-5823, or at the door one hour prior to the show. Reserved section seats are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors 60 plus, and $15 for students. Seating in the general admission sections is available for $16 for adults, $13 for seniors 60 plus, and $13 for students. Children 5 and younger can get seating in either reserved or general admission for $10. For more information go online to www.masquerstheatre.org or call 651-464-5823. The summer production is made possible, in part, by appropriations from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the state’s general fund, and its arts and cultural heritage fund that was created by a vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008. The Hallberg Family Foundation of Forest Lake and the many individual and business sponsors throughout the area are also strong boosters for Masquers Theatre Company.

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Fawn-Doe-Rosa honored by Falls Chamber of Commerce

Summer Fun 2012

Wildlife park now in 49th year

he Falls Chamber of Commerce, St. Croix Falls, WI, has announced that Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park, St. Croix Falls, was the Chamber’s Business of the Month in May. Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park has been creating special family memories for generations. The wildlife park is celebrating 49 years of educational fun this year with their locally owned and operated family business. Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park has 17 staff members plus family members who help out with animal care and daily operations. The business is owned and operated by Jeanne (see photograph), her three children, Terri, Scott and Tammi, and their families, FAWN-DOE-ROSA is a place to enjoy nature, meet animals up close and make family memories. Stop in to hand feed the deer, goats and bunnies and see many other native critters large and small. A great family outing! More information at www.FAWNDOEROSA.com A Brief History Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park first opened in the spring of 1963. It is privately owned and operated. The park is located at 2131 US-8 east of St. Croix Falls, WI. For information, call 715-483-3772 Generations of love and care have gone into FawnDoe-Rosa. The staff works with conservation departments, the United States Department of Agriculture, and rehabilitators in sharing the goal of animal care, awareness and education. Many of the animals at Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park have been hand raised by family members. The purpose at Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Education-

Courtesy Photo Owner Jeanne in a 1963 photo with some of the first baby animals that arrived at Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park in St. Croix Falls, WI. al Park is to help educate others about animals, wildlife and nature. As visitors walk trails throughout the wooded park, or sit on a bench to relax, take your time to enjoy the animals. They have so much to offer. For any questions, feel free to ask staff members who are throughout the park.

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Summer Fun 2012

Chisago County Fair has some changes this year

y mid-July, folks are ready for the annual county fair. In Chisago County it will be the 140th anniversary of this great event. New things are being planned for the four-day event that runs July 12-15 at the fairgrounds in Rush City. Grandstand events have a changed schedule which includes a motocross on Thursday, NTPA tractor pull on Friday (this is new), and the demolition derby is set for Saturday evening. The Saturday morning kids program has some exciting new activities, also. Starting at 10 a.m., there will be new games for competition, and a magician and local clown will entertain. Kids can dig in the pig pen, compete in the cow pie toss, try the sucker pull or the duckie pond, the sack races and the pedal pull. Kids love to have their faces painted and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the

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schedule too, along with finger painting. Mmm... does that mean they get their fingers painted? Nothing is cuter than baby animals and the kids can enjoy a petting zoo also that day. Free events at the fair include clogger performances, bands on the patio, and strolling through the animal barns. Or check out the vendors in the commercial building, and the historical displays including the log cabin. For 140 years Chisago County families have enjoyed a day at the county fair, 4-H members have enjoyed sharing their projects and neighbors have enjoyed meeting each other over a malt and a pork burger. Come to the fair - the Chisago County free gate fair July 12-15! Parking passes available by day or for the entire fair run. Updates coming on the website: www.chisagocountyfair. org.

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Summer Fun 2012

From a local dock, a blue heron watches over Fish Lake on a summer morning. Later in the day the Fish Lake beach will be filled with swimmers.

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Wildlife Science Center Draws Nature Lovers

The Forest Lake area is home to the Wildlife Science Center, a nationally recognized research and education facility specializing in wolves and other predators. The private, nonprofit organization was established in 1991 after funding ceased for the Wolf Project, a federal program dedicated to the study and preservation of native wolf species. Wildlife biologist Peggy Callahan, executive director of the Wildlife Science Center, had managed a colony of captive gray wolves at the facility, specializing in animal immobilization techniques. Without federal funds, Callahan and fellow biologists faced a choice of euthanizing the wolves or adopting them out to zoos. Instead, Callahan decided to create the Wildlife Science Center. In 1994, after three years of intensive preparation and program development, the center opened to the public. In addition to hosting tours and special events, the facility offers educational outreach programs, research opportunities for scientists, and hands-on training for wildlife professionals. Callahan’s achievements were recognized in July 2004, when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awarded her he Silver Eagle for her contribution to wildlife conservation. Although the center is best known for its population of gray, red, Mexican gray, and hybrid wolves, its resident wildlife also includes bears, cougars, lynx, red and gray foxes, skunks, porcupines, raccoons, New Guinea Highland dogs, and raptors such as hawks, owls, and falcons. Many of the animals were acquired after they were injured. Occasionally, a wild animal purchased as a pet is surrendered to the center. Because of their relationship to humans, such animals cannot be reintroduced to the wild. From elementary school students learning about the scientific method to wildlife biologists studying wolf genertics, amateur naturalists and professional scientists alike find research opportunities at the Wildlife Science Center. The center also participates in the Species Survival Plan for the red wolf and Mexican gray wolf. Both species are considered extinct in the wild and must rely on captive facilities such as the Wildlife Science Center for their survival. In addition, the facility provides wildlife handling training for animal control officers, zoo professionals, veterinary students, and others. They receive instruction in chemical immobilization, veterinary emergency response, and animal handling techniques. The center, located on eight acres leased from the Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area attracts more than 25,000 visitors each year. Many of them are school children on field trips from all across the state as well as from Columbus, Forest Lake and surrounding

communities. The staff also provides off-site educational presentations, exhibiting slides and wolf artifacts or bringing raptors for outreach programs. Wolf Camp is offered in the summer for children and teens in grades 4-12. During the three-day session, campers learn about ecosystems and wolf behavior through such hands-on activities as wildlife tracking and radio telemetry tracking. The center has recently partnered with the YWCA to offer summer camps for metro-area girls, and has also sponsored special mentor-assisted youth hunting events. The center was home for six months to a film crew working on a Natural History Museum of New Zealand project funded by the Animal Planet television network. The documentary films “Growing Up Wolf ” and “Growing Up Black Bear,” filmed at the center, have aired frequently on Animal Planet. Although the Wildlife Science Center has enjoyed a national spotlight in the popular Animal Planet films, the facility is not a petting zoo or an animal theme park. Its educational programs

stress respect for these creatures – from wolves to raptors – as predators in a delicate ecosystem. Recently, the organization acquired 160 acres in Linwood Township; including a log structure and several outbuildings. Since the partially wooded acreage is surrounded on three sides by wetlands, the new parcel will be well suited for study as s complex ecosystem and will provide a staging area for wetland wildfowl and other birds. Callahan estimates the move to the new location will be completed in three to five years, as funds become available to finish construction of building, paths, and animal enclosures. Throughout the year, the center hosts special events, including Sled Dog Day in January, Wine Tasting in April, Canine Carnival in May, Harvest Howl and Howloween in October, and a Howl-iday Open House in December. Other special events include camping overnights, bonfire wolf howls, and private birthday parties. Those wishing to support the center can donate cash or needed items (a wish list is included on the organization’s web site), become a member (various membership levels are available), or volunteer their time to the center. A special program offers sponsorship of individual animals. Callahan also encourages supporting wildlife habitat through funding provided by the sale of hunting licenses and ammunition, as well as through donations to habitat preservation organizations. The Wildlife Science Center is located about 6.5 miles west of Forest Lake on West Broadway (CR-2). It is open to the public for tours on Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Admission is $6.00 for adults and $4.00 for children ages 4-12. The center is also available for group tours and other programs from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (overnight for special events) throughout the year. The center tailors events to the needs of visiting groups. Phone 651464-3993, email wscinfo@wildlifesciencecenter.org or visit www. wildlifesciencecenter.org for details.

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Summer Fun 2012

Nothing says summer like a town festival Local celebrations run from July into October Food, music and games are staples at all town celebrations, but each local festival has its own unique twist and historical angle. Following are some favorite local celebrations, in chronological order: Forest Lake Fourth of July Celebration Forest Lake’s annual celebration centers annually around the Fourth of July. A deep history has earned the city the title of “Fourth of July Capital of the Upper Midwest.” Amazingly, the parade highlighting the event has never been canceled due to weather since its inception in 1924. This year’s 88th-annual festival themed “Freedom – The American Dream” will be held from Friday, June 29-Wednesday, July 4. The food vendors open at 11 a.m. on Friday with the carnival following at 5 p.m. and the beer wagon at 6 p.m. Each continue daily throughout the festival. Bingo runs Saturday-Wednesday. Live music will play Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on July 4, and awards follow at noon at the American Legion Post 225. The festival ends with fireworks by the lake at 10 p.m. on Wednesday. See www.post225.com for more information. Karl Oskar Days Lindstrom’s town celebration is named after a fictional character in Vilhelm Moberg’s classic novels, ‘The Emigrants’. In the books, Karl Oskar leaves his native Sweden in search of a new life in America. The largest community celebration in Chisago County, Karl Oskar Days is set for Thursday, July 5 through Sunday, July 8. Be sure to check out the statue of Karl Oskar and his wife, Kristina, located downtown. This year’s festival kicks off Thursday with a Ladies Nite Out shopping event on Main Street. An arts and crafts fair, a tug-of-war, a battle of the bands and fireworks are scheduled for Friday. Saturday brings the Lindstrom 5K Loppet, a car show, basketball, talent show, the Grand Day Parade and a street dance. The celebration wraps up Sunday with a trap shoot, lumberjack show and a breakfast. See www.karl-oskar-days.com for more information. Wannigan Days Held jointly between Taylors Falls and St. Croix Falls, Wannigan Days is held in late July. The celebration will mark 54 years this summer. The festival incorporates the area’s history with the St. Croix River. Wannigan is a term for a houseboat-type vessel which lumbermen used in the area when the river was a logging route. In addition to common activities such as bingo and fireworks, Wannigan Days features unique events like a cross-river tug-of-war, a lumberjack show, canoe races and a pub crawl. Several concerts and a block party add

File photo The Taco Daze parade is a can’t miss event in Scandia each September.

to the fun. Most activities are held at either The Overlook in St Croix Falls or the Lions Parks in both cities. This year’s celebration will run from Thursday, July 19 through Saturday, July 21. Musical entertainment will include Paul Cebar & the Milwaukeeans and the Zebra Mussels. See www.wannigandays.com for more information. Center City Days Center City’s town festival will be held from Friday, July 27 through Sunday, July 29. The festival typically includes a kiddie parade, bingo and a picnic at Water Tower Park, a craft fair at the Swedish Mall, a fishing tournament for kids, canoe races, a treasure hunt, a street dance, a lutefisk hunt, a car show and a city-wide garage sale. Ki-Chi-Saga Days Chisago City celebrates Ki-Chi-Saga Days in late August. This year’s 43rd annual bash will be held Thursday, Aug. 16-Sunday, Aug. 19. Activities are centered in Moberg Park and held throughout the community. The celebration’s Old World Market arts and crafts fair is one of the largest in the area. The Little Miss Ki-Chi-Saga coronation will be held early Saturday afternoon in Moberg Park. The contest is judged based on essays, with this year’s topic being the importance of volunteering. The Grand Day Parade runs from Primary School to Lakeside School starting at 2 p.m. Contact Doris Zacho at (651) 257-5464 for more information on the weekend. Scandia Taco Daze Primarily sponsored by the Scandia Marine Lions Club, Taco Daze has been a September tradition of

Annual Festivals– See Page 25

Summer Fun 2012

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Annual Festivals – From Page 24

Scandia’s for over 35 years. This year’s celebration, “Under the Big Tent,” will be held on Saturday, Sept. 8. The parade starts at 3 p.m. and follows Oakhill Road. The schedule typically includes arts and crafts fair, farmers market, several tournaments/contests, a parade and, of course, plenty of tacos served up by the Boy Scouts. See www.scandiamn.com/tacodaze/index2012. htm for more information. Wyoming Stagecoach Days Stagecoach Days began in 2005 in honor of the 150th anniversary of the settlement of the Wyoming area. Held in September, the event traditionally includes a pancake breakfast, a 5K run, historical programs, a horseshoe tournament, stagecoach rides, a kiddie parade and fireworks. The Old West Society stages gun fights and bank hold-ups. Free root beer and a pie contest have also become regular hits. This year’s festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 15. See www.wyomingmn.org for more information as the date nears. Shafer Days Shafer Days are held in early October. Past events include a lawn tractor pull, a treasure hunt, a corn maze, a bank robbery re-enactment, tug-of-war, a volleyball tournament and a dance at the fire station. Traditionally, there have been shows featuring cars, motorcycles, tractors and antique bicycles. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 6 and Sunday, Oct. 7. Call (651) 257-4726 ext. 12 for more information.

File photo A pair of youngsters enjoy the fun at Wyoming Stagecoach Days.

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Summer Fun 2012

Activities abound at Wild River S.P.

ild River State Park near Almelund is truly a gem. Fishing enthusiasts, canoeists and kayakers routinely enjoy more than 18 miles of the St. Croix River that snakes through the park. Hikers and bikers roll over 35 miles of paved and unpaved trails during the summer months. Photography aficionados capture the park’s pristine vistas, colorful plants and abundant wildlife. Those are just the basic activities enjoyed by many at Wild River during the summer. The park’s interpretive naturalist, Kacie Carlson, said there’s a myriad of activities going on this summer in addition to the entertaining standbys. Perhaps the best part about these happenings is that most of them are free. A summer filled with fun • The activities get into full swing June 23, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with River Seining. Participants drag seine nets to find out what’s living beneath the surface of the St. Croix River. Nets and buckets are provided. This activity is for all ages. • Park goers who’d like to hone their skills with bows can swing by Wild River June 30 for Archery in the Park. Bows and arrows are provided and instructors will be available to teach the intricacies of the sport. Participants must be at least six years old, and children ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. • Local storyteller Dwight Wilcox will present a fun

evening July 7, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the park amphitheater when he goes into character as Mr. Martin Mower, one of the first Lumber Barons of the St. Croix. He will relay fun facts and local legends for all ages. • River Awareness Week kicks off July 14 when Friends of Wild River State Park host the annual Canoe Cleanup Day. Paddlers traverse the river from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and help clean up the St. Croix. Later in the day, the Institute of Astrophysics stops by for Universe in the Park, 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. After a short introduction to galaxies and nebulas, participants view the sky through 8-inch reflecting telescopes and make their own star wheels. • Critters that aren’t so cuddly will be on display July

Wild River State Park – See Page 27

Summer Fun 2012

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Wild River State Park – From Page 26

28, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., when the park hosts an Animals Nobody Loves presentation. “I think they’ll be bringing a porcupine, a skunk, a snake and an owl,” Carlson said. “I’m excited. This is the first time we’ve had them.” • Another entertaining speaker will be at Wild River Aug. 4. Wisconsin DNR Officer Chris Cold will talk about the importance of wildlife ecology and bring in a variety of live animals, including a red-tailed hawk. • August 10 and 11, 9 to 11 p.m., visitors can view the Perseid Meteor Shower – weather permitting – at the sky observation area with the aid of telescopes. Astronomy enthusiast Kenny Bahmer will be on-hand for a presentation and to answer questions. • Aug 18: Another round of archery in the park. • Grab a net and join park staff as they catch, explore and tag monarch butterflies noon to 2 p.m. at the trail center Aug. 19 and 25. • Anyone interested in prairie restoration can stop by Wild River Aug 25 for a community involvement workshop. Call 651-583-2925. More details about the course are available online. • Think you can’t camp? Experts at the park will show you how during the I Can Camp overnight stay Sept. 1. An experienced crew will provide campers all they need to know, a tent, air mattresses and all of the cooking utensils for this workshop. Registration is required and the cost is $35 a family. More details are available at mndnr. gov/ICanCamp. • Summer activities at the park come to a close Sept. 1 with an array of events. From noon to 2 p.m., another monarch tagging will take place. Starting at 11 a.m. and lasting until 3 p.m., Autumn Harvest Day is under way. Participants graze the tall grasses in the park to collect native seed. From 1 to 2:30 p.m. Leslie Jo Meyerhoff will

unravel the mysteries of mushrooms during her “incredible, edible mushrooms” presentation. Wild River State Park is located near Almelund, 14 miles east of North Branch and 12 miles north of Taylors Falls. The Visitor Center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. For more information, call 651-583-2125 for the park, 651-583-2925 for the naturalist or visit www. mnstateparks.info.

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Summer Fun 2012

Tri-county area boasts wealth of park and recreation options for the whole family Park systems make it easy to enjoy the great outdoors

ANOKA COUNTY

Columbus Columbus City Park, the main park in Columbus, is a 39-acre park located on both sides of Kettle River Boulevard by the City Hall complex. Amenities in this park include four ball fields with backstops, benches and bleachers. It also has a football/soccer field, a double tennis court, a t-ball field, a picnic shelter, a beautiful wooded picnic area with grills and tables, ample parking and benches throughout the park. This park has a 3/4 mile paved walking path. Howard Lake Park, located on Howard Lake Drive, is a 2.4-acre neighborhood park across from West Iverson St. It contains a four-seat swing set, a sandbox and a picnic table. Hidden Park, located in the neighborhood of 162nd Ave, is a 1.9-acre neighborhood park. It offers a four-seat swing set, a sandbox, a bike rack, a basketball court, a picnic table and a bench. Linwood The Linwood Park and Recreation Committee has provided township residents with several parks from which to choose. All Linwood parks are located within a six-mile radius of the town hall and are open to the public. None have service fees. Allquist Park, located at 23890 Julliard Street, features a softball diamond, swings, slide set, mini basketball, horseshoes and picnic tables. Broadbent Memorial Park, located at 22810 Typo Creek Drive NE is dedicated to the memory of Carroll Broadbent. This park is located on the northwest corner of County Road 85 (Typo Creek Dr.) and 227th Avenue and sees plenty of activity during the summer and fall months. Amenities include two ballfields, horseshoes, a full-size basketball court, a tennis court, swings, a slide, playground equipment, picnic tables, benches, a lighted football/soccer field, a parking lot and a picnic pavilion. Town Hall Park, located on the east side of Town Hall, features a general purpose ballfield, benches and a parking lot. Four Seasons Recreational Park is located between 228th Ave. & 229th Ave. N.E., East of Typo Creek Drive

(County Road 85). Aptly named “Four Seasons Park” this park is by far the township’s most used park regardless of the season. Features include a skateboard facility, volleyball court, three ball fields, a BMX Bike Track, playground equipment and a parking lot. Givens Park, located at 6659 242nd Lane N.E., offers a basketball court, swings, playground equipment, a picnic table, benches and parking lot. With the recent addition of 40 acres added to the previous 170 acres, Linwood Community Park and School Forest is Linwood’s largest park by far. It boasts many amenities including picnic tables and benches and a variety of trails for hiking. Space for parking is provided at the north end of the park just off of 227th Avenue. Martin Lake Shores Beach is located on West Martin Lake Drive N.E. It features a picnic table and benches. A public boat landing is available at the county park off Martin Lake Road. North Star Park, located at 24470 East Typo Lake Drive N.E. is a mostly wooded area with a few walking paths. Olympic Green, located at 5211 226th Ave. N.E., has a basketball court, swings, playground equipment, picnic tables, benches and a parking lot. Anoka County Parks • The 5,500-acre Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park Reserve is one of the largest in the seven-county metropolitan area and contains some of the most significant native wildlife habitat and water resources in the regional area. Located at 7401 Main St. in Lino Lakes, the park offers a wide variety of amenities, including the Wargo Nature Center, Chomonix Golf Course, Rice Creek Campground, and Centerville Lake Beach. Other amenities include picnic areas, boat launch facilities, biking and hiking trails, playgrounds and a fishing pier. All motorized vehicles are required to purchase a vehicle entry permit to the regional parks. Annual permits are available for $25, good for one year from date of purchase. Daily permits are available for $5 per day. The annual permit is honored at all Anoka County Regional Parks as well as regional parks in Washington and

Area Parks – See Page 29

Summer Fun 2012

Area Parks

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– From Page 28

Carver counties. • Martin-Island Linwood Lakes Regional Park is located at 22480 Martin Lake Road NW in Linwood Township. This 737-acre park is in close proximity to the Carlos Avery Management Area. The park contains significant undisturbed landscape communities identified in the State’s County Biological Survey. Facilities include nature trails, a small picnic area, rustic beach, and a group camp named Camp Salie. The park remains mostly in a natural state.

CHISAGO COUNTY

Almelund In Almelund, there are two lighted ball fields that have been maintained and operated by the Almelund Lions Club for many years. Many softball leagues utilize these fields for their summer reprieve from the daily grind. Center City Center City has several parks, one located by the city water tower on Busch Ave. that includes a newly installed updated play structure, volleyball court, and ice rink; I.G. Long Park, on the corner of Nelson Court and Nelson Lane, with a playground and ice rink; and Lorens Park with lake access for shoreline fishing on the north side of South Center Lake. Chisago City Moberg Park, located at 10656 Railroad Avenue, includes a caboose, gazebo, Moberg statue and planters, Veteran’s Memorial, city center for flag displays and electrical needs for festivals. Triangle Park, located at 29309 Old Towne Road, includes a bench, table, garden area and memorial area passive park. Paradise Park, located at 11031 Stinson Avenue, includes a beach, beach house with bathroom facilities, lifeguard facilities, store room, pavilion, playground, volleyball net, pathways, grills, picnic tables, porta potties, parking lot, dock for boats, fishing pier and sledding hill. Surfland Park, located at 11365 Lakeview Road, includes a baseball field, playground, picnic tables and benches. Chuckie Lundquist Park, located at 10940 Stinson Avenue, includes a walking/biking trail, tunnel under Highway 8, benches, drinking fountain, bathrooms, parking lot, skateboard park, ice rink & pleasure rink, warming house, porta pottie, BMX jump park, and holding pond. Lahns Landing, located at 11505 Lakeview Road, includes a passive park located on Chisago Lake, lake access for non-motorized boats, flat area for picnics, frisbee, etc., garbage cans, table and benches. Rotary Park School Lake, located at 10340 Liberty Lane, includes a pavilion, table, walking path and hiking path around School Lake. This park overlooks School Lake. Watertower Park, located at 11066 North Avenue, includes a climbing rock, walking/biking path, parking lot, playground area, large rain garden location, near future nature preserve area with interpretation locations surround wildlife, bike path trail head. Dahl Park, located at 29186 Main Street, includes playground equipment small for ages up to 12, bench, picnic table, site of pump #3. Hidden Forest, is located on County 36, will include walking/biking paths, centrally located nature conservancy park with nature walking trail through out, oak savannah

with benches and picnic table for rest area along the trail system, future continuation of the trail system to the north in the anticipation for future development. Raspberry Hill Park, located on County Road 19, will include walking/biking trails, centrally located park-flat location perfect site location for ball field and small playground equipment. Woodridge Preserve Park, located on Ivy Wood Trail north of 288th Street, includes a continuation of walking/ biking path, park location centered west end of development with the thought of linking the walking nature trail along the east side of the development, small area relatively flat to have sign, table, bench, garbage can, boundary to be marked by either fencing or landscaping, future play area to be decided by future residents. Wilderness Ridge, located at 36 SW of Hidden Forest N of Woodridge, includes a continuation of the walking/biking trail, linking the nature walking path to Woodridge Preserve as well as continuing North to link Hidden Forest, park area surrounds the development, bike path will continue along the north side of the development and continue along the west side ending in the flat passive park area where a nature trail will continue. Gazebo to be added to this area, benches, tables, sign, garbages, concentrating on the paths and linkage, passive park area and biking. Emily Lake Overlook, located on Jeffery Avenue, includes a passive park as of now, possible trail head for Swedish Immigrant Trail. Chisago City Camp Ojiketa Regional Park, located on Kirby Avenue, is over 70 wooded acres, previous campfire campground on Green Lake, over 3,000 feet of shoreline with cabins, lodges, trails, passive areas, beach, tables and nature opportunities. Will open the walking trail and some buildings to the public in 2010. Lindstrom Beach Park is located on South Lindstrom Lake, at the west end of Newell Avenue. It features waterfront activity with a sand beach, swimming area, boat tie-up, a fishing pier, sand-pit volleyball, pavilion, picnic tables, charcoal grills, swings, play structures, portable toilets, paved walking paths, winter access for ice fishermen. This park and all of its amenities is accessible to the handicapped. Lion’s Park is located adjacent to the Lindstrom City Hall, at the east end of Sylvan Avenue. Special features include the Lindstrom Band Shell, which hosts the annual summer concert series, “Harmony in the Park.” Concerts are held on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. June through August. The small island displays evergreens, sitting benches, and is surrounded by a moat which is accessible by a covered foot bridge. There is a pavilion with picnic tables, elecricity, grills, drinking fountain, and portable toilets. Play structures include a separate toddlers play area, an elementary age play area, tire swing. Open green space is available for play activities. The park is accessible to handicapped. Town & Country Park is on Neal Avenue, which is east from the corner of 299th Street and Neal Avenue, (one mile south of the Dairy Queen). It is featured as a “Teen Park,” which offers a mountain climbing, half-court basketball, skateboard area, space-age play equipment, pavilion, picnic tables, and portable toilets. Open green space is provided for free recreation, along with a two-lane circuit for running,

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walking, bike riding and roller-blading which connects with the City Trail system. This park and all of its amenities is accessible to the handicapped. Kroon Lake Park is located at the corner of Lawnlake Drive and Lakeside Trail (South on Olinda Trail to 288th Street to Lakeside Trail). It features a play structure, swings, half-court basketball, picnic tables, on street parking. Open green space is available for play activities. This park is accessible to the handicapped. Memorial Park is located on the West end of Newell Avenue, behind the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce building and Veterans Memorial. The park features a preschool park with a play structure featuring slides, swings, and a handicap swing. North Meadows Park is located off of County Road 19, in the North Meadow development. It features Play Structure, swings, basketball half-court, picnic tables, ball diamond, a paved path, and opens green space for play activities. Pleasant Hill Park is located on Pleasant Avenue, approx. two blocks south of Highway 8 and Elm Street (south of the Holiday gas station). It features a play structure with slides, a ball diamond, and a winter sledding area. Pump House Park is located on 3rd Avenue and County Road 20. It features a ball diamond, half-court basketball, soccer practice board, picnic tables, portable toilets, play structure, slides, and swings. Skate Park (Ice Rink) is located on the East end of Sylvan Avenue, South of the cemetery. It features wintertime fun for Hockey, and pleasure skating on a lighted rink. A

warming house is provided. North Branch Central Park is located in the heart of North Branch on Main Street. Featuring: picnicking shelter, play ground area, and basketball court. Events held in this park annually are Midsummer Days carnival, Fall Harvest Festival, Winter Fest and Concerts in the Park. Harder Park is located east of North Branch on Hwy 95. Featuring: 3 ball fields, picnic shelter, and playground equipment on 40 acres Municipal Ice Skating Rink is located on 1st Ave and Hwy 95. Featuring: a warming house. Open daily weather permitting Northwoods Park is located north of Main Street and west of Forest Blvd. Featuring: tennis courts, picnic shelter, and new playground equipment Riverwalk Park is located on the Sunrise River north of Main Street on Forest Blvd. Featuring: scenic walking trails and picnic shelter Tower Park is located off of 8th Ave. Featuring: two ball fields Taylors Falls Taylors Falls has four parks including Heritage Park (commonly referred to as the Overlook north of Taylors Falls), Riverwalk Park & Trail (under the MnDOT bridge and traveling north along the river bank), West Street Pumphouse Playground for tots, and Cherry Hill City Park (under construction).

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Wyoming The city of Wyoming has 14 developed parks. Swenson Park, located on Railroad Blvd. and Flintwood Ave., has both a hockey rink (paved for summer use) and a pleasure-skating rink with warming house. Also within the park is a basketball half-court, two newly repaved tennis courts, a playground (new in 2000), and a ball field. Centennial Park, at 270th St. and Fenwick Ave., is a “passive enjoyment” park with historical significance. Picnic facilities are available. Lions Park is located on 263rd St. and Kettle River Blvd. This park includes a pavilion (which can be reserved), tables and two grills, large parking lot, softball field with back drop, basketball hoop, large open field, playground (swings, play set with slide, merry go-round) and a port-a-potty. In the winter the parking lot is converted into a skating rink. Ashton Park is located at the intersection of Galen Drive, Flint Trail, and 261st St. The park has a playground (three slides, one monkey bar, one climbing bar, one steering wheel, and one play “window.” Separate swing sets include three swings and one baby swing. Individual equipment includes a digger/scoop, a rocking horse, and a rocking turtle.) Two picnic tables are also available. Tolzmann Park is located on the north edge of the city. It has a ball field, volleyball court, playground, picnic shelter and native prairie plantings. The city of Wyoming and Wyoming Township share use and maintenance of the park. Many improvements were made to Goodview Park in 2004. The park is located in the heart of the Thurnbeck Ponds development along Goodview Ave. and 259th St.

Wyoming parks also offer several trails throughout the city. Verges Park is located at Goodwin Road and Granada Ave. It has a playground set (swings, slide), 2 bouncy horses, 1 bench, 1 table, and 1 bike rack. Town Hall Park is located off of Wyoming Trail and has a softball field, swing set, slide, 2 picnic tables, bleachers, 2 benches, and 2 bouncy horses. Verges Memorial Park is located off of 258th Street and Goodwin Road. The park has a basketball court (4 hoops), sand volleyball court, swing set, large play structure, bench, grill, 2 picnic tables, bike rack, and a port-a-potty. Banta Park is located off of Fondant Ave. south of 250th St. This park has a softball field, pavilion, playground set (plastic - slides, climbing), a swing set, big slide, 1 grill, 2 benches, 3 tables, 2 bleachers, 1 digger, 2 bouncy horses, whirl, and a bug climbing structure. Fireside Park is located off of 251st St. and Elk Trail. The park has the following amenities: a boat, swing set, slide, digger, 2 bouncy horses, and a merry-go-round. Comfort Park is located near Iris Ave. This park has a limestone walking trail, native plantings, bridges over water, large play structure, 4 swings (1 infant, 1 accessible), 2 benches, and a picnic table. Blue Spruce Park is located off of 262nd St. It has a playground and two picnic tables. Chisago County Parks Chisago County Commissioners strive to improve the quality of life through county parks, trails and open space.

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Lakeside Park, Forest Lake

County parks near your home provide access to unique natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities, lakeshore and riverbanks. All parks are open daily 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The parks office is located at 38871 7th Ave. North Branch. Vehicle permits are required for all vehicles entering Fish Lake Park on Friday, Saturday and Sunday Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend - $3 per day and $20 per season. A bus permit is $15. Enjoy Checkerboard, Kost Dam, Dennis Frandsen Park and Ki-Chi-Saga Park, no permits required. Make your shelter reservations early by calling 651-674-2345. For more information and photos see the Chisago County website www.co.chisago.mn.us under “departments” see Parks and Trails home page. • Checkerboard Park: Located four miles east of North Branch on Hwy 95. Featuring: swimming, picnicking, hiking, volleyball, horseshoes and a playground. Beach is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. No lifeguards are posted, swim at your own risk. • Dennis Frandsen Park: Located on the north shore of West Rush Lake in Rush City, MN. Fishing from shore available. Check out the new nine-hole disc golf course featuring rolling terrain with lake views from most of the fairways. Throwing discs will be available for rent or purchase at the Rush Point Store. There are no fees to use the course. • Fish Lake Park: Located on the west shore of Fish Lake in Harris, MN. Summer featuring: a swimming beach, fishing, hiking, picnic and playground areas. Park rangers are on duty throughout the season, weather permitting. Boat launching hours are daily during boating season from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Beach is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. No lifeguards are posted, swim at your own risk. • Ki-Chi-Saga Park: Located south of Lindstrom on Glader Blvd. Featuring the historic Karl Oscar House, a softball complex, children’s play structure, picnic shelter, volleyball, horseshoe, nature hiking and winter ski trails. The

park is adjacent to a game refuge; birds and waterfowl grace the area in abundance. • Kost Dam Park: Located on the Sunrise River south of North Branch or west of Almelund just off of County Road 11. Featuring: Bank fishing and picnicking. The Kost Dam Park is a historic dam site. The dam first built in 1903 was used for a flour mill and later in 1922 provided electricity by way of the hydro power plant on the site. Remnants of the electric generator and mill building can still be seen. The wooden dam which Mr. Nelson acquired in 1903 was not the first one to be built, nor was it the last. All went well with the hydro power plant until the wooden dam washed out again. Mr. Nelson, with the help of the power company, constructed a concrete dam in 1928.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Forest Lake Lakeside Memorial Park, located in downtown Forest Lake, is the hub of activity during summer months. Every Tuesday night in June, July and August, the park hosts the “Arts in the Park” free concert and entertainment series at the Gazebo. Also on Tuesday nights from June through September the Farmers Market rounds out the program, bringing you fresh produce and crafts items. Lakeside Park also offers a swimming beach, a play area, and lots of picnic spots including three shade shelters and several grills. The Lakeside Gazebo can be rented for formal or casual private events. SPARKs (Summer Park Art & Recreation for Kids) is offered at four area parks during the month of July. The Forest Lake Park Board offers this free summer park program to children from 6-12 years of age. Lakeside Park hosts this activity on Tuesday and Thursday mornings; Beltz Park hosts it on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons; and Shawn Silvera Memorial Park hosts SPARKs on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Summerfield Park hosts it on

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Monday and Wednesday afternoons. Bay Park, at 8th Ave. S.E. and 18th St. S.E., offers playground equipment for toddlers. Bayview Park, located at 11th St. S.E., has become a popular neighborhood park with new play equipment, a half court for basketball and picnic tables and benches. Bixby Park, located at 2nd Ave. NW and 7th St. NW, no longer is home to the city’s compost site. Beltz Park, located at the corner of 11th St. S.E. and 8th Ave. S.E., is another active park for children and adults. Tennis courts, basketball courts, a volleyball court, baseball diamonds, and a youth play area are available. Bridle Pass Park, located off of 210th Lane Ct. N., features a playground and large mowed open space. Cedar Park, a small park area adjoining Bixby Park, is located at 2nd Ave. N.W. and 7th St. N.W. A small play area is available. Clear Lake Park, located at 5803 213th St., includes a large playground area, informal playing field and half-court basketball. Eagle Bluff Park, located on Farnham Ave. N., includes play equipment and swings. Enchanted Forest Park, located on 4th St. SE at 8th Ave. SE. Fenway Athletic Complex, located near the Forest Lake Area Athletic Association (FLAAA) Sports Center off of Fenway Avenue, has four softball fields, a baseball diamond and three soccer fields. The fields are owned by the City and managed by FLAAA. Reservations for field use can be made

through the athletic assocation. Forest Preserve Park, located at 20809 Granada Ave. N., includes picnic tables. Kulencamp Memorial Park, located at 230th St. (off North Shore Trail), has four newly upgraded red-lime ball fields, playground equipment and two picnic shelters. Manor Park, located near Harrow and 213th St., is a popular neighborhood park with new play equipment. North Shore Circle Park, located on two lots at 7621 and 7759 North Shore Circle, is a mowed open space on shore of Forest Lake. Schilling Park, located off Schilling Circle N.W., provides ball fields on five acres. Shady Trails Park, located at 4th St. SE at 8th Ave. SE, is a small wooded lot with trails. Shawn Silvera Memorial Park, located in Evergreen Circle in the Evergreen Ridge development, provides play equipment and a picnic shelter. Southview Park, located off Georgia Ave. N. at 210th Lane Ct. N., offers play equipment, shelter, and walking paths of Southview. Sharewood Forest Park is located between Forest View and Forest Lake Elementary Schools on S.W. 4th St. Sherwood Park, located at 8787 212th St. N., offers a picnic table and an informal playing field. Shields Lake Park, located at Imperial Ave. N. & 210th St. N., is a beautiful public access to Shields Lake, a limited motor-use lake. The park includes a fishing pier. It is also an

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excellent picnic area, and can be used as a carry-in canoe access. Summerfield Landing Park, located off 206th St. N. and Everton Ave. N. includes a shelter, walking path and play equipment. Scandia Scandia Community Center, located at 14727 209th St N. on Olinda Trail North just south of the Village Center, is a well-used facility with a community building that houses the township offices, banquet hall with kitchen facilities, meeting rooms, restrooms and outdoor recreational facilities on an 18-acre site. The Community Center shares a parking lot of approximately 120 parking spaces with the Leonard Wojtowicz Skating Park. Wind in the Pines Park, located at 22199 St. Croix Trail, is thought by the Minnesota DNR to be one of the most diverse ecological areas left in Washington County. This 44-acre site is located in the northeast corner of the Township along State Highway 95 across from Pilar Road. Bounded by the Falls Creek SNA to the north and the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway to the east, this parcel offers diversity of old growth forest and pristine prairiesproviding invaluable wildlife habitat and unparalleled scenic value. There is a small gravel lot off Highway 95. Trails are marked and maintained by volunteers for non-motorized pedestrian use. Lion’s Park at Hay Lake is located at the intersection of Old Marine Trail and Olinda Trail North in the southcentral part of the city at 14001 Old Marine Trail. This 7-acre site has been updated with a park shelter, picnic tables, grills, lighting and electrical hook-ups. Parking is available on the street. This site is adjacent to the Hay Lake School Museum and across the road from the Swedish Settler’s Monument. Barton Johnson Memorial Park, located at 20880 Olinda Trail, is is a private neighborhood park located adjacent to the Gammelgarden Museum and across Olinda Trail from the Scandia Community Center. Wayne Erickson Memorial Ball Park, formerly known as Scandia Lighted Ball Field, is located at 21398 Olinda Trail on the west side of Olinda Trail/County Road 3, north of Scandia Trail/Highway 97. The site includes a concession stand and children’s play structure. South Ball Field is located at 20835 Olinda Trail, just south of the Community Center, on the east side of Olinda Trail/County Road 3. Scandia T-Ball Field, 14849 Oakhill Road North, is located on the south side of Oakhill (County Rd. 52), east of Olinda Trail. Washington County Parks • Big Marine Park Reserve is located at 17495 Manning Trail N. in Marine on St. Croix. The park was selected as a regional facility because of its excellent natural resource features, including the St. Croix Valley/northeast ground moraine and high-quality upland and wetland wildlife habitat. When completed, the park will be 1,800 acres, with 80 percent of its acreage set aside for preservation and protection. This 80 percent will eventually resemble the land as it was prior to the arrival of the settlers in the mid-1800s.Park hours are 7 a.m. until one-half hour after sunset. Vehicle permits are required for all vehicles.

Big Marine Park

STATE PARKS

William O’Brien State Park William O’Brien State Park, 2 miles north of Marine on St. Croix (Hwy. 95), has much to offer on its 1,650 acres. Facilities include two campgrounds with 124 campsites, four camper cabins, four group campsites, a picnic ground and three picnic shelters, a swimming beach and fishing pier on Lake Alice, fishing on both the lake and the St. Croix River, a boat ramp on the river, canoe rentals, and 12 miles of hiking and 10 miles of cross-country skiing trails. An Interpretive Center offers displays and naturalist programs. Visitors to the park must pay a daily parking fee of $5 or purchase a 12-month parking permit for $25, good at all Minnesota state parks. A Minnesota ski pass is required in all state parks for persons ages 16 and up. The cost is $5 a day, $15 for an individual season pass and $40 for a three year ski pass. Phone 651-433-0500 for additional information. Wild River State Park Wild River State Park is located at 39797 Park Trail in Center City. Its 6,803 acres stretch along 18 miles of the wild and scenic St. Croix River. The park is well know for its excellent camping, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding, and cross country skiing facilities. The park has 35 miles of trails, backpacking sites, canoeing sites and a 96-site campground with 17 electrical sites. Visitors who want modern amenities can reserve the guest house which provides a living room, dining room, kitchen, and fireplace. The park also has two camping cabins which include bunk beds, a table, and benches. An all-season trail center is a great spot to relax after hiking or cross-country skiing on the 35-mile trail system. A visitor center with exhibits and environmental education programs is open year-round. The park’s number is 651-583-2125. Interstate State Park Minnesota Interstate State Park, one mile south of Taylors Falls on U.S. 8, features camping, picnic areas, fishing, trails, and canoe rental. Interstate has four miles of hiking trails, two picnic shelter buildings, picnic tables, a boat launch site, lots of fishing, and daily interpretive programs. The park hosts 375,000 visitors each year. More than half of the 37 campsites have electricity. A group camp area accommodates up to 100 people. The park is open from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily year round. The daily entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Annual rates are $25 per vehicle; $12 for handicapped-tagged vehicles. The park office number is 651-465-5711.

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OTHER RECREATION

Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area Located 30 miles north of the Twin Cities near Forest Lake. The W.M.A. headquarters is 7 miles west of Forest Lake on Anoka County Road 18. 5463-C West Broadway, Forest Lake, MN 55025, 651-296-3450. Over 20,000 acres of marshland, lakes and swamp, Carlos Avery is best visited in migration when the songbirds come through, usually in large numbers. Species usually found in summer include Bald Eagle, Sand hill Crane, Sedge Wren, and Golden-winged Warbler. The Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area is open year round, seven days a week from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Office hours for wildlife staff are Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Office is closed on certain holidays. Wildlife Science Center For more than 20 years the Wildlife Science Center existed as a low-profile research center of national stature on seven acres within the Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area. In 1994 the private, nonprofit center opened its doors to the public and launched a new effort to fill what organizers believe is a gap in environmental education. The WSC is using its gray wolves, red wolves (fewer than 300 in the world), mexican gray wolves, bears and other wildlife as a living laboratory for schools and other organizations. Programs ranging from short tours to overnight camping trips and bonfire talks to explain wolves, bears and their habitat have been established. The WSC is open to the public every Saturday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. It is also available to groups by appointment. See www.wildlifesciencecenter.org or call 651-464-3993.

The Sunrise Prairie Trail and Hardwood Creek Trail Sunrise Prairie Trail of Chisago County and Hardwood Creek Trail of Washington County consists of 24 miles of paved multi-use through Chisago and Washington Counties. Sunrise Prairie Trail and Hardwood Creek Trail follow the abandoned Burlington Northern railroad right of way between North branch and Hugo. Bridges cross Hardwood Creek and the south and west branches of the Sunrise River. Directions for the North Branch Trail Head: I-35 to HWY 95 exit. East on HWY 95 to Forest Blvd (CR 30). Go South on Forest Blvd, one (1) block. Trail head is on the southwest corner of intersection of Forest Blvd. (CR 30) and Maple Street. Stacy Trail Head: I-35 to Stacy Exit (Stacy Trail / CR 19). East to Lions Park on right side of road approximately 5 blocks east of I-35. Wyoming Trail Head: I-35 to Wyoming Exit (Forest Blvd. / CR 23). Go east on State HWY 61 to Forest Blvd. (CR 30). Go Left on Forest Blvd. approximately 300 feet, trail head on left. Activities along the trail feature a 10-foot-wide paved surface facilitating hikers, bicyclists and inline skaters during spring, summer and fall. The parallel unpaved portion is open to non-studded snowmobiles when there is sufficient snow and to horseback riders at all other times. Snowmobiles and horses are not allowed on the paved portion of the trail at any time. Parking areas and information kiosks are located adjacent to the trail at North Branch, Stacy and Wyoming. Parking is also available at the start of the trail in Hugo, as well as in downtown Forest Lake.

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Parade lovers can enjoy the best in Chisago County this summer A

s the familiar song goes “I love a parade,” and if you do too, love parades, that is, here’s a run down of where you can find some great parades in Chisago County in the summer of 2012. The line-up begins in North Branch for the Midsummer Days (June 13-17) celebration where the American Legion Post #85 has led the grand day parade for 87 years. This year’s Grand Marshal will be NB Lions Community Service Award recipient for 2012, Syl Marking. The big parade attracts thousands of visitors, many who have been coming for years and years, setting up chairs in a favorite spot along the route. Usually falling on Father’s Day, as it is this year, it has been a great family tradition to bring Dad for the afternoon, where he can just sit back and enjoy the warm sun and good times with his family. The parade is heralded each year by a flyover of military planes that signals it’s about to begin. Line-up is at 1 p.m., step-off time is 2 p.m. The route runs down Main Street in North Branch, east to west, going past the Lions’ roasted corn-on-the-cob stand and the carnival being held in Central Park. A Street Dance will follow the parade at 7 p.m. at the Legion Tent with free admission and entertainment by Radio City featuring Kenny Krona. In Lindstrom in July, they celebrate Karl Oskar Days (July 5-8). Karl Oskar Days celebrates the Swedish heritage of the area, as well as Karl and Kristina Oskar (fictional characters created by Vilhelm Moberg in his novel, and included in their schedule of fun, is a grand day parade also. The route and line-up locations for this year’s Karl Oskar Day Parade have been finalized, and include a minor addition of Olinda as a part of the parade’s route through Lindstrom at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 12. The parade route is essentially same as in previous years, but will proceed “in reverse” of its normal pattern. All area residents will be notified by hand-delivered flyer about the parade route, and what streets will be

inaccessible during the approximately two-plus hour time frame for the parade activities. Lakes Area police officers will be joined by Chisago County Sheriff’s deputies and reserves to direct traffic at many intersections. Additionally, ABATE volunteers will be at other traffic control points to redirect traffic during the parade activities. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead for that parade timeframe, as travel in certain parts of Lindstrom will be restricted. In July comes the 140th Chisago County Fair, (July 1215), four days of old-fashioned country entertainment with a demolition derby, tractor pull, horse shows and a carnival and includes the traditional all-county grand day parade. This year it is set for 3 p.m., Saturday, July 14. Line-up will begin @ 1:30pm. The route starts at the corner of Game Ave. and 1st Street, and ends at the fairgrounds. Here you’ll find floats with dairy princesses, and horses from the local saddle clubs. There will be clowns and bands and units from county businesses, churches, civic clubs, scouts, and fine displays of fire trucks from several area fire departments. The 4-H kids will join in the fun also. And there’s lots of candy passed out, too. The route is mostly down Main Street in Rush City going west from downtown, ending at the fair grounds where you can join in all the fun and activities of this annual event. Watch the newspapers closely as the route may change due to road construction. In the city of Taylors Falls on the banks of the St. Croix River, they’ll be celebrating Wannigan Days (July 19-22). The parades are Saturday, July 21, at 6 p.m. - due to Hwy 8 bridge construction there will be two parades - one in Taylors Falls, Minn., and one in St Croix Falls, Wis., both at the same time. August parades include Stacy Days (Aug. 4). Usually held just before noon, the line-up includes local dignitaries, children, businesses and the local fire trucks and

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more. Watch out for the water that might be sprayed on the crowd, more often than not appreciated on a warm summer day. The parade route runs east to west and leads to the park where all sorts of fun activities are underway including a softball tournament and waterball fight. In mid-August, in Chisago City folks celebrate Ki-ChiSaga Days (Aug. 17-19) and like all of these other community celebrations, they too enjoy a grand day parade. Ki-Chi-Saga Days Grand Day Parade is held on Sunday, August 19, at 2 p.m. The route runs from Old Towne Road, west on Railroad Avenue, continues west on Wyoming Avenue, and ends at Lakeside School. Contact Doris at 651-257-5464 for more information. Finally, although not an official parade, there is a unique event held on the Sunday before the Almelund Threshing Show (Aug. 10-12) each year. It’s a tractor caravan that travels around the countryside ending up at the Threshing Show grounds where the folks are getting ready for the three-day tractor and threshing extravaganza. This year the tractor caravan will head out on Sunday, Aug. 5 this year. No details of the route have yet been disclosed. If you love the country, and tractors, you’ll enjoy watching these folks motor over to the threshing show grounds. Maybe you can even join them. You love a parade? They you’re in luck. Come to Chisago County and enjoy one of these fine events this summer.

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Cool off this summer at Fish Lake Beach, Rush City pool

eople looking for a place to swim and cool off this summer definitely have options in northern Chisago County. For beach lovers, many turn to Fish Lake Park in Harris. For those partial to community pools, there’s that and more at the Rush City Aquatic Center. Fish Lake Located on 152 acres on the east shore of Fish Lake, the park is known for its sandy, spacious beach that is kept well maintained. Need a break from the water? Then take the kids hiking or to the fun playground nearby. Other activities include volleyball, softball and horseshoes. Everyone loves a picnic, and the park has picnic shelters available. People can even reserve a picnic shelter by calling Chisago County Parks at 651-674-2345. And there’s a boat access for those looking to try their luck at some fishing or just a ride around the lake. Take advantage of an inexpensive experience at Fish Lake Park, though there is small parking fee on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays (Memorial Day through Labor Day). There is no charge, however, Monday through Thursday throughout the year. To get there via I-35, Fish Lake Beach is 1 and a half miles west of the Harris exit on Co. Rd. 10, then south on Elmcrest Avenue. If you have a GPS device, type in

43308 Elmcrest Ave., Harris, as your destination. Rush City pool About 14 miles north of North Branch, Rush City offers a true gem with its aquatic and recreation center at 305 S. Eliot Ave. near the downtown area. The facility features a full size gym with locker space and an outdoor aquatic facility complete with a 165foot slide, diving pool, lap pool, zero entry play area and a 26-foot drop slide. Activities include swimming lessons for ages 6 months and up to advanced skill levels, open swimming

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Swimming – From Page 38

every day and water aerobics. Also offered is a concession area with ice cream treats, snacks, soda, water, candy, nachos and more. Private rentals are available for birthday parties and other celebrations. Open swimming hours are 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday through Saturday. Hours will remain normal during the county fair, which is July 12-15. There are two options to get there — due to construction on 4th Street — after taking the Rush City exit from I-35 and heading east to Fairfield Avenue: A) Take a right (south) on Fairfield/Co. Rd. 39 to Co. Rd. 7. Turn left and head east to Field Avenue. Take another left and go straight across 4th Street. The pool will be off to your right. B) Take a left (north) on Fairfield Avenue and a right on Tiger Trail through the school grounds. Just after Jacobson Elementary School, take a right (south) and then a left (east) on 1st Street. Go three blocks and take a right until you see the pool on the right hand side. For more information including rules, admission prices, passes, private rentals and punch cards at the aquatic center, call 320-358-3074 or visit www.rushcity. k12.mn.us.

Reel in walleyes on Clear Lake

File photo

Clear Lake is one of the hot fishing spots in northern Washington County. Located in the city of Forest Lake, it provides easy access to good walleye fishing. There is a 20-space public access lot on the west bank. DNR fishing outlooks report the average Clear Lake walleye to be 16.5 inches and over 2 pounds, with above-average abundance, as well. Northern pike, muskellunge, bluegill and black crappie are also present on the 424-acre lake.

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First Fruits of Summer Available for Harvest in Early June This Year

he 2012 strawberry crop will be ready for picking in the metro area in the week of June 4, according to Kevin Edberg, manager of The Berry Patch. “The strawberry crop this year looks to be a very good one, though it will also be one of the earliest crops I’ve ever seen. We hope customers are ready to go picking,” said Edberg, who is in his 35th year as a fruit grower. A typical strawberry season in Minnesota starts in midJune; last year, picking began on June 22. The growing year got off to an exceptionally early start, with growers taking straw off their strawberry rows in March, something longtime growers can never remember doing before. However, cooler April temperatures slowed down growth. Unlike the apple crop, strawberries were not in bloom in April, and thus escaped early freeze and frost events. The exceptional rains of recent weeks have also generally not proved to be a major problem, coming at a time when green fruit is best able to handle such occurrences. The earlier start to the season gives growers reason to hope for a longer than average picking season. In most

years, hot temperatures in early July signal the end of the strawberry season. “Growers that I have spoken to are hoping for a full four week season that will last through the Fourth of July,” said Edberg. “I’d love our customers to enjoy a full month of fun family outings and fresh strawberry shortcake and pie, in addition to making jam or freezing berries for a mid-winter taste of summer.” The Berry Patch is one of the oldest pick-your-own berry farms in the metro area, with first plantings made in the 1970s. Today the operation near Big Marine Lake has about 20 acres of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries available for harvest. Eight of those acres are in blueberries, making it the state’s largest blueberry farm. Blueberry and raspberry crops typically start in early July. To keep tabs on crop ripening information, customers can call the farm’s berry hotline at 651-433-3448, or check out the farm’s website at www.berrypatchmn.com.

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The 2012 season is underway for the Forest Lake Brewers, a townball team playing in Class B of the Minnesota Baseball Association. Home games are held in beautiful Schumacher Field. The team has put together nine straight winning seasons. For news and a schedule, see www.flbrewers.com.

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