The Courier - January 2015 by St. Francis Area Schools

The Courier January 2015 | Volume 22, Issue 6

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www.the-courier.org | news@isd15.org

Independent School District 15 adopts new student information system Paul Neubauer ISD 15 Director of Curriculum & Instruction

Independent School District 15 made the decision in the winter of 2014 to explore other options for the district’s student information system. While the current vendor, TIES, has served the district for many years, it was time to look for a system that would add elements of flexibility, responsiveness, improved communication and enhanced customer satisfaction. With this in mind, district administrators vetted several vendors and invited two to present to a focus group. Last spring, Infinite Campus and Skyward, the two vendors the district took interest in, presented to a cross section of school personnel. Overwhelmingly, staff felt Infinite Campus would meet our requirements and provide a level of service that would significantly and positively impact student learning. We are confident we will be able to schedule more flexibly, respond more efficiently to individual concerns and finally, communicate in a more timely and effective manner with our students, parents and community. Infinite Campus was formally selected and district personnel have spent the past several months developing standards of operation and training schedules in order to make the transition from one system to another go as smoothly as possible. With a target go-live date of March 13, there is much work to do. There will be a one-week period where there will be no electronic access for staff or parents in either TIES or Infinite Campus during the transition. This

window of time will allow data to be uploaded and will provide the transition team the opportunity to work through any issues. Prior to this occurring, there will be several opportunities for staff to receive the necessary training to successfully transition from one system to another. Students and parents/guardians will need time to transition as well. To this end we are offering several opportunities for parents/guardians of students to enroll in the parent portal, formerly SchoolView, in a supported, user-friendly manner. Computer labs at each of our schools will be available

for access during winter parent/teacher conferences (see schedule). In each lab, a support person will be available to assist parents in signing up for the Campus Portal. As conferences approach, we will continue to send communications regarding locations, labs and support. For those who cannot attend conferences, we have the ability to allow for self enrollment. Information will be forthcoming relative to this process. We are excited not only for the change of our student information system, but for the chance to switch to Infinite Campus in a manner that is a positive experience for all.

Dine-In • Carry-Out • Delivery • Online • Mobile

What’s Inside Schools in Action..................................................2 School Board Highlights...............................14 Community & Business..................................15 Sports & Outdoors............................................25 Community Education...................................28 Life..............................................................................31 Meetings, Benefits & Events........................32

Parent/Teacher Conference Schedule

St. Francis Middle School 7th graders explored the power of magnification in science class. The STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) adoption at the middle school has provided a microscope for each student. Story on page 14. Submitted photo

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January 22

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February 11

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99 Dine-in only

Schools in Action

School Board Highlights Community Education

PAGE 14 PAGE 28

Superintendent Bulletin

Troy Ferguson ISD 15 Acting Superintendent

The holiday season is an exciting time for our children—the concerts, parties, events and a whole host of fun experiences only heighten their excited anticipation of things to come. Hopefully parents are able to share in their children’s holiday joy, but there are also many concerns. One of the biggest concerns

for working parents is, who will care for their children when they are at work? Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) Community Education, in an effort to provide ever-improving service to our community and families, has expanded options for ISD 15 parents. Kids Connection, our

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comprehensive before and after school childcare program for kindergarten through 5th grade students continues to grow. Attendance at the Cedar Creek Community School site in East Bethel has expanded to an average daily attendance of 80 students. Likewise daily average attendance at the St. Francis Elementary School site has increased to around 70 students. Parents cite quality programming, motivated staff, flexible scheduling options, convenience and overall value as reasons for participation in Kid’s Connection. On any given day, students attending Kid’s Connection have access to technology for academic and recreational purposes, handson learning opportunities, art projects, indoor and outdoor recreation and physical activity, reading and help with homework. Before school students are fed breakfast and after school, a snack is

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New graduated driver license law Nancy Messerschmidt Driver’s Education/Behind-the-Wheel Program Supervisor

Effective January 1, 2015, the number of hours of supervised practice driving required for students will increase to 50 hours* including 15 hours at night. A record of the practice driving must be written on a driving log and presented at the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) road test. *40 hours if parent/guardian attends the 90-minute parent meeting. A parent meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at St. Francis High School in the Performing Arts Center. Visit www.communityed15.com for more information on the Drivers Education program, a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education.

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environment for children before, during and after our traditional school hours. These children have the option of attending our Preschool Place 15 program at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove. Parents have the flexibility to send their children all day, half day or for the entire week. Children participate in a wide variety of educational and recreational activities.

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provided. Kids Connection also offers all day childcare on most non-school weekdays. This fall, in response to parent inquiries, Kid’s Connection Supervisor Christine Schlottman launched a new four-year-old program at St. Francis Elementary School called Just 4 Kids. Similar to Kids Connection, Just 4 Kids offers a safe, flexible and educational

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Students earn ticket to We Day Ted Gehring SFMS Social Studies Department

If you have been watching the nightly news this past month, you saw a number of stories about We Act and We Day. We Act started out as an idea that kids have both the intellect and energy needed to change the world for the better. Kids are challenged to define a local and global problem, research that problem and take civic action to address that problem. Groups that are affiliated with We Act pledge to create a local and global civic action plan and implement those plans over the course of the school year. For the second year, our 7th grade students have committed themselves to We Act as part of their civic learning experience in social studies. For their local goal, our 7th graders have chosen to raise drug awareness and be an active participant in helping implement our $16,000 grant from the state of Minnesota. For their global goal, they have chosen to partner with the St. Francis Lions Club to collect prescription eyeglasses which will be donated to the underprivileged in developing countries. The students’ goal is to empower 65 percent of our middle school population to donate one pair of glasses for a total of 712.

As part of the We Act experience, kids can earn a ticket to the event called We Day. At this event, kids hear awesome, powerful messages from some of the best speakers around the country. Throughout the year, our 7th graders worked to earn one of the 20 tickets our school received from We Day by competing in a civic points contest. Students who attended civic meetings, volunteered at civic events, completed community service work and/ or were recognized for acts of kindness and service to others by their teachers earned civic point hours. At the conclusion of the civic point contest, 53 students logged over 848 hours of civic service in our community. The top 20 students attended We Day on November 12 at that Xcel Energy Center in Saint

Fifty-three St. Francis Middle School students logged 848 hours of civic action in our community. Submitted Photo The top 20 students earned a ticket to the We Day event. Paul. Their day was filled with motivational speeches that empowered them to be change agents in our world. Magic Johnson (former NBA All-Star) spoke about economic empowerment and helped kids better understand that poor people want and need opportunities, not money. Lieutenant Colonel Eileen Collins (first woman space shuttle pilot) spoke about

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technological empowerment and challenged students to use technology to change the world for the better. JR Martinez (military hero and former winner of Dancing with the Stars) and Colbie Caillat (top 40 music artist) spoke about social empowerment and challenged students to be more inclusive

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and to help make our schools a safer place. Finally, Martin Sheen (TV and movie actor) and Ana Golja (actress from Degrassi: The Next Generation) spoke about thinking globally and challenged students to make a difference on a global issue choice.

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Celebration of Indigenous People a success Carline Sargent ISD 15 American Indian Homeschool Liaison

The Independent School District 15 American Indian Education Program hosted a Celebration of Indigenous People event November 22, which was attended by over 100 community members. The Four Wind Drum and Dance Troupe did an excellent job of performing Native American singing, drumming and dance. Colin Mustful, historian and author of Thy Eternal Summer, The U.S. – Dakota Conflict of 1862 and Grace At Spirit Lake, spoke about the history of the Indigenous People of Minnesota. Ursula Clarin, a member of the Saginaw, Chippewa Tribal Nation, shared information about historical inaccuracies regarding Columbus Day. Leonard Thompson, ISD 15

community member and White Earth Nation Tribe of Anishinaabeg People, shared information about the importance of teaching accurate Native American

history and culture. This event was a great opportunity for our school community to participate and learn about Native American history and culture.

Presenter Leonard Thompson (right) shares information about the Ojibwe cradleboard and birch bark canoe with community member Bob Olson. Submitted Photo

St. Francis High School students attended the We Day celebration on November 12 at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul. We Day was held in 12 cities across North America this year. This stadium-sized educational event promotes the movement of young people leading local and global change. Youth are encouraged to reach their full potential and feel empowered to remove barriers that prevent them from being active local and global citizens. Pictured are, front (L-R), Maiya Cain, Eve Lee and Jose Blanco; back (L-R), Jonah Wuollet, Keith Kogo, Chue Yang and Isaiah Brunette. Carline Sargent, ISD 15 Multicultural/Diversity Liaison

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Two Independent School District 15 teachers have been nominated for the 2015 Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. Cassie Schmoll (above), 5th grade teacher at EBCS, was nominated by School Board Chair David Roberts. Chris Carrigan (below), Reading Specialist at EBCS, was nominated by Education Minnesota Local 1977 Vice President Ryan Fiereck. Candidates will prepare a detailed portfolio highlighting their experiences and passion for students. Jamie Studnicka, EBCS Physical Education

Fifteen administrative assistants from Independent School District 15 attended the 65th Annual Minnesota Association of Educational Office Professionals (MAEOP) conference and business meeting October 22-24. This organization is affiliated with the National Association of Educational Office Professionals and is allied with the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. MAEOP is recognized and supported by the National School Boards Association. MAEOP affords members the opportunity to network with other educational office professionals and to continue education. Local sports anchor Joe Schmit, keynote speaker, gave a high energy, humorous presentation called The Power of Silent Impact – Stories of Influence through Purpose, Persistence and Passion! Attendees went to various sessions on technology, professionalism and policies. The administrative assistants gratefully acknowledge ISD 15 for continuing to support, promote and encourage professional development . Kim Springer, ISD 15 Business Services Office Professional

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St. Francis High School

St. Francis High School First Trimester Art Show results determined by voting from the show’s attendees. First Trimester art show winners People’s Choice Award Cassie Tye Painting Best of Show Celine Eide

Painting Honorable Mention Kelsi Herold Drawing Best of Show Brandon Garcia Drawing Honorable Mention Leonard Pilarski Emma Eastman

Publisher Troy Ferguson ��763-753-7041 troy.ferguson@isd15.org

Honorable Mention pointillism drawing by Leonard Pilarski.

Honorable Mention painting by Kelsi Harold.

Editor Kathleen Miller ��763-753-7042 kathleen.miller@isd15.org

Multicultural/Diversity Group

American Indian Education Program

Jennifer Close SFHS Art Teacher

St. Francis High School (SFHS) hosted the year’s first Art Show on November 17 in the Media Center. Students from the art department entered their personal creations for display. Susanne Redfield and Jennifer Close, SFHS art instructors, organized the event. Place winners were

Pottery Best of Show Jesse Bloomquist Pottery Honorable Mention Jon Berkness

Ceramic Sculpture Best of Show Kyle Granland Ceramic Honorable Mention Alexis McKinney Jennifer Bowman

Courier Contacts Telephone ��763-753-7031 Fax ��763-753-4693 Advertising ��763-753-7032 Billing ��763-753-7031 Website �� www.the-courier.org Like us on Facebook

Graphic Designer Pat Johnson ��763-753-7025 pat.johnson@isd15.org Deb Thayer ��763-753-7033 deborah.thayer@isd15.org Billing Amy Lindfors ��763-213-1588 amy.lindfors@isd15.org Production Binie Bertils Address 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW St. Francis, MN 55070-9368 Deadline Information Deadline for the February issue of The Courier is January 9. News Send news and photos to news@isd15.org. Letter to the Editor For the complete Letter to the Editor policy, visit www.the-courier.org. Delivery For delivery inquiries call 763-753-7031 Policies and Pricing Visit www.the-courier.org for policy and pricing information. Subscriptions The publication is delivered at no charge to all residents in Independent School District 15. The Courier can be mailed to any address for an annual (12 issues) subscription rate of $18. The Courier is a monthly publication distributed by Independent School District 15 Community Education and paid for with revenues generated by advertising. 6

The Multicultural/Diversity Program includes a School Community Committee, which enlists the input and support of students, staff, parents and community members from a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, experiences, beliefs and ideas to enhance diversity within ISD 15. The next meeting will be held at St. Francis High School, Room C204, 6:00-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 8.

The American Indian Education Program, includes a Parent Committee, which is made up of parents of American Indian students, staff and community members. The committee meets monthly to discuss relevant issues and welcomes new members. The next meeting will be held at St. Francis High School, Room C204, 6:00-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 22.

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Superintendent

From Page 2 They have the opportunity to develop social skills through structured play and free choice time, experience hands-on learning, be introduced to letters, numbers, sights and sounds, work on fine motor skills as well as gross motor skills in the gym and on the playground. Breakfast and lunch may also be purchased through the school cafeteria. Parents with questions concerning Kids Connection or Just 4 Kids may contact Chris Schlottman at 763-213-1616, chris.schlottman@isd15.org or

visit www.communityed15/kc. At ISD 15 we constantly strive to provide the best educational opportunities for our students. Programs such as Kids Connection and Just 4 Kids are just a small sampling of the high quality learning opportunities provided to our students every day. I am proud of the commitment and effort exhibited by our students and staff each and every day. On behalf of the ISD 15 community, I wish you all a most safe and joyous holiday.

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St. Francis High School

High school debate team successful at conference tournament Steve Fetzik SFHS Debate Team Adviser

The St. Francis High School debate team came home with several awards from the Rural Debate League Conference Championship November 18. The team’s success was led by Natalie Beauto’s championship in the LincolnDouglas debate division. Beauto went 4-0 to take the top honor.

“Natalie has put together an impressive record this year,” noted Lee Graves, assistant debate coach. “She was 16-4 with two championships in October and is now 10-4 with another championship in November.” The Public Forum team of Cassie Stierns and Joseph Blom also came home with a third place award. “We are really surprised

with their performance,” observed Steven Fetzik, the team’s head coach. “We had to put them together as partners at the last minute and they didn’t disappoint us.” Other debaters of note include Caytlin Lindeland and Krystyna Nourse, 3-1 in Novice Public Forum debate and Megan Houle, 3-1 in Varsity Public Forum.

Timberwolves Business Club Day Haylie Boemer SFHS Student, BPA Member

Nine members from the St. Francis High School Business Professionals of America (BPA), formerly known as DECA and their adviser went to the Target Center in Minneapolis for the Timberwolves Business Club Day on November 18. They traveled to the Target Center to listen to top executives for

the Timberwolves and Lynx basketball teams. The seminar began around 9:00 a.m. and it went to about 1:00 p.m. Attendees sat at center court during the seminar. The speakers talked about their jobs, educational background and various experiences that led them to where they are today. Students also learned about what it takes to work in the sports industry. After the presentation

there was a question and answer session. Later Crunch, the mascot came out and interacted with the students. A BPA member was invited on center court for an activity in front of the entire group. It was a fun experience.

Members of the SFHS Debate Team who competed at the 2014 Rural Debate League Championship. Pictured, back row (L-R), Caytlin Lindeland, Cassie Stierns, Joe Blom; front row Megan Houle, Krystyna Nourse and Natalie Beauto. Photo by Steve Fetzik

ICE FISHING CONTEST Saturday, January 31 • 11:00 a.m. on Long Lake in Isanti Cost

$10 per pre-drilled hole

Raffle $1 per ticket At the Health Occupations Student Association (HOSA) fall delegation in Saint Paul on November 6-7, St. Francis High School student Cassy Stierns (left) was elected Minnesota state vice president for 2014-15. Kathy Weiland, SFHS Medical Careers Teacher

Our Saviour ’s Preschool An Educational Christian Preschool for 3, 4 & 5 year old children.

Registration starting in February for the 2015-16 school year! Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel For more information, call 763-434-6117 or visit www.oursaviourslc.org The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

First Prize: Second Prize: Third Prize: Fourth Prize:

Eskimo Ice Auger Eskimo Portable Fish House 4 tickets to Minnesota Twins Game Aqua-Vu Underwater Camera

**Raffle drawing to be held at Captain’s at 3:30 p.m.** (Need not be present to win)

Prizes

Largest Game Fish: $300 (must be Minnesota DNR game fish) First Game Fish: $100 (must be Minnesota DNR game fish) Smallest Game Fish: $50 (must be Minnesota DNR game fish) First Bullhead: $50

Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. at Captain’s on Long Lake Contest runs from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. inside roped-off area on Long Lake

**Ice fishing prizes awarded at Captain’s at approximately 3:00 p.m.** (All money prizes will be issued)

Drive 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy 47, turn right on 277th to Long Lake. **All proceeds from this fundraiser go towards the Long Lake Improvement Association.** 7

Cedar Creek Community School

CCCS collects food for Thanksgiving Baskets Sandra Benson CCCS Community Relations Coordinator

Cedar Creek Community School (CCCS) sponsored a Thanksgiving Basket project for families in need. These baskets were provided to 25 CCCS families. The food was donated by CCCS students and their families. For each food item that was brought in by the students, a feather was added to a giant turkey hanging in the hallway. By the end of the food drive, the turkey was stuffed with feathers. CCCS was able to provide a basket or two with all of the fixings needed for a complete Thanksgiving dinner. A big thank you goes out to the St. Francis American Legion for donating the turkeys and to St. Francis County Market for donating the boxes!

Presents…

Students collect hundreds of pounds of food to make Thanksgiving baskets for deserving families. (Below) Teachers Lori Allard and Kelly Ogren sort the food into boxes. Submitted Photos

Deborah Schmidt, CCCS 2nd Grade Teacher

Goodnight Moon: The Musical

Saturday, February 21 10:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.

All Ages! This musical depicts Margaret Wise Brown’s 65 year old book that has entertained four generations of little ones. The pictures on the wall, the toys in their box and the moon itself all become characters. Bring your entire family to enjoy this magical production. Learn more about the show at www.stagestheatre.org. Reserved seat tickets: $10, $12, $14

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the East Central Regional Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Please thank these sponsors:

Richard G. Hardy Performing Arts Center 430 8th Ave. NW, Cambridge, Minnesota

Buy Tickets:

www.hardycenter.com • 763.689.6189 Cambridge-Isanti Community Ed Office • 625B Main St. N, Cambridge

Tickets are available online or by phone until noon on the Friday before Saturday shows. Visit the Center’s ticket window 30 minutes before any show to buy on a first-come, first-served basis.

Deborah Schmidt’s 2nd grade students at Cedar Creek Community School (CCCS) know the true meaning of giving. Schmidt’s class collected the most pledge money during the school’s fall Walk-AThon fundraiser. As a result the class was awarded $50 from the CCCS Parent Teacher Organization. The class voted and decided to buy books with their award money. Schmidt maximized the number of books purchased at the Scholastic book sale. Her class then donated the books to Toys for Tots.

First grade students at Cedar Creek Community School learned about early settlers by helping to plan and participate in a Thanksgiving mini-feast. The menu included fruit, apple juice, popcorn, rolls and homemade butter. Students made pilgrim hats and woven place mats. Thank you to the many parents/ volunteers who helped to make our 9th annual mini-feast at CCCS a great success! Sandra Benson, CCCS Community Relations Coordinator

Rosie Larson came to Suzette Larson’s 2nd grade classroom at Cedar Creek Community School and shared a DVD of her scuba diving experiences in the Great Barrier Reef. This tied in nicely with the Jellies story the class was reading as part of the Journeys reading series. It was interesting to learn about the Great Barrier Reef through Rosie’s personal traveling experiences. Sandra Benson, CCCS Community Relations Coordinator The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Cedar Creek Community School

Hundreds of people attend family dance Emily Sufka CCCS PTO

On November 7 the Cedar Creek Community School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) hosted a free family dance. The students had a blast dancing with their friends and family at the Light Up the Night event with over 400 people in attendance. One highlight of the event was a flash mob which consisted of several PTO members and teachers donning bright neon colors and glow glasses, surprising the students with their performance. (Left) Cedar Creek Community School staff and teachers and Parent Teacher Organization members participated in the flash mob during the Light Up the Night dance. Photo by Becky Aish

Learning about the six pillars of character

East Bethel Community School

Kathi Greene CCCS Kindergarten Teacher

Students at Cedar Creek Community School participated in their third school-wide assembly which highlighted one of the six pillars of character the school is addressing this year. In December, they learned about responsibility and discussed ”Doing what you are supposed to do and being accountable for your choices.” Principal Darin Hahn read a story and Kara Lofgren’s 4th grade class performed a skit, demonstrating the correct ways of behaving responsibly while standing in line and eating in the lunchroom. The other pillars that are being covered are: trustworthiness, respect, fairness, caring and citizenship. December 5 saw the first Eagle Pride Assembly at East Bethel Community School for the 2014-15 school year. The Eagle Pride Assembly recognizes students who have shown fantastic character through the first trimester. Fourth and fifth grade students on the A and B honor rolls were also recognized along with 4th and 5th grade students with Outstanding Character. This year saw the first EBCS choir performance of the year and as always, fifth grade students led the student body in their respect motto song. Cassie Schmoll, EBCS Community Relations Coordinator

Celebratory sock hop Cassie Schmoll EBCS Community Relations Coordinator

The expectation levels at East Bethel Community School are set high for everyone. One goal they set for themselves is to reach 1,500 golden eagle feathers by the end of each trimester. (Golden eagle feathers are earned as a classroom by showing character traits of respect, honesty and responsibility that go above and beyond what has been asked of them.) It is a goal that, in the past year, has proven to be difficult to achieve. However, the 2014-15 school year showed what the staff and students at EBCS are really made of. They reached their goal of 1,500 golden eagle feathers two weeks before the trimester ended. To celebrate, the entire school, kindergarten through 5th grade, participated in a

sock hop. The afternoon of December 5 was filled with students and staff showing off their dance moves to

songs such as Happy, YMCA and What Does the Fox Say? A fabulous time was had by all.

Cedar Creek Community School students performed a skit about positive behavior in a school cafeteria. Submitted Photo

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By showing character traits of respect, honesty and responsibility that go above and beyond, students at East Bethel Community School earned a school-wide sock hop. Submitted Photo

The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

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St. Francis Elementary School

Food drive helps high school food locker Scott Kruger

High school basketball players spend time with third graders Kate Hermann

SFES Dean of Students

SFES 3rd Grade Teacher

St. Francis Elementary School hosted a food drive the week of November 17–24 as a community service project. The students, families and staff collected over 2,000 units of food and personal items to be distributed to SFES families and made a donation to the St. Francis High School Food Locker/Kody’s Closet.

On December 5, 3rd graders at St. Francis Elementary School learned some valuable lessons about hard work, determination and the power of a positive attitude. After reading the story, Jump!: From the Life of Michael Jordan by Floyd Cooper, students were inspired by the struggles Jordan has overcome in life to reach the success he’s achieved. Since Jordan was unavailable to make a guest appearance at SFES, we invited the next best thing…our very own St. Francis High School Saints boys basketball players.

Coach Ryan Hauge, joined by seniors Justin Kane, Tristen Goltz, Jake Vanness and Sam Scardigli, spent time talking with the students about how they have overcome obstacles in their own lives to reach goals they’ve set for themselves. Students learned firsthand from the players about the importance of hard work, dedication, determination and academics when it comes to being a successful athlete. The boys even led the 3rd graders in a few basketball drills. Everyone had a blast, while learning valuable life lessons at the same time. Although it may be a few years before this group of 3rd graders can join a high school team, it’s looking like our junior Saints are on the right track.

Students from Karen Holsten’s 3rd grade classroom sorted all of the food and personal items and then packed 54 cardboard totes. County Market of St. Francis donated all of the cardboard totes for this project. Submitted Photo

St. Francis High School senior basketball players talked to St. Francis Elementary School 3rd grade students about overcoming obstacles and then engaged them in basketball drills. Submitted Photo

Learning about the water treatment process

Julie Wieczorek’s kindergarten class read the story Lunch by Denise Fleming during our nutrition unit and then wrote their own version of the story for SFES Dean of Students Scott Kruger. The students created the food and came up with descriptive words to describe his meal to him. They made warm crunchy toast, cold smooth yogurt, crunchy lumpy cauliflower, a sweet juicy apple and a healthy crusty chicken leg. Julie Wieczorek, SFES teacher

Classes will not be in session in Independent School District 15 on Monday, January 19.

Andrea Klinsing SFES Teacher

Students from St. Francis Elementary School took a field trip to the St. Francis Water Treatment Plant. Paul Teicher, St. Francis Public Works Director, spoke to them about the water filtration systems. Submitted Photo

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Fourth graders at St. Francis Elementary School followed an engineering design process as they planned, built, tested and improved water filtration systems to clean samples of contaminated water. The students then went on a behind-the-scenes tour of the St. Francis Water Treatment Plant to learn how our city water is filtered and made safe to drink. The 4th graders were excited to learn that many of the components they used in their water filters, such as sand and gravel, are used to filter the 550,000 gallons of water supplied by the water treatment plant each day.

The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis Middle School

St. Francis Middle School October Students of the Month enjoyed pizza with Assistant Principal Jenni Jones. Celebrating their success are: Aubrey Burns, Joey Carlson, Kaitlyn Fries, Samantha Hanle, Connor Harris, Brett Overvold, Sadie Pennebaker, Anna Waldock and Serenity Whetten.

Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

St. Francis Middle School teachers selected the following students the November Students of the Month: Cameron Augdahl, Carter Bolte, Jack Cherney, Meghan Clyne, Sydney Green, Derek Kelley, Earl Muonio, Wyatt, Rivers and Sarah Vogel. Congratulations on your hard work and success!

Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Sixth grade students visit Pine City trading post Kyle Waterworth 6th grade Social Studies teacher

On November 14, Core 61 students and staff from St. Francis Middle School endured the cold temperatures and went on a field trip to the North West Company Fur Post in Pine City. “This field trip was planned as a hands-on, minds-on activity to supplement the early Dakota, Ojibwe and fur trade units that are part of our 6th grade Minnesota history curriculum,” stated 6th grade social studies teacher, Mr. Waterworth. Upon arriving at the historical trading post, students and staff were welcomed and then quickly

divided into groups and given a name. Each group was led by a counselor from the Minnesota Historical Society who was in character and dressed in full costume from the fur trade era. “The students got a chance to feel what life was like during the fur trade,” said Core 61 student Emma Stroyny. Students were able to touch and feel many different kinds of fur pelts that the Dakota and Ojibwe people traded. Students learned what goods people would receive in return for the different fur pelts and how the fur traders lived at the post. Groups walked along the trails that the Indians used. They had a chance to sit inside a wigwam and were able to experience what it was like to live during that time period. The students

Yankee Candle fundraiser Jessica Rowles SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

St. Francis Middle School students raised money in October and November for school technology by selling Yankee Candles. The school made $4,260 over the course of two weeks. Top selling students were: 6th grade - Ashley Utermoehl sold, $387 Andrew Dubbin sold $296, Madeline Knobbe sold $252; 7th grade Brooke Hoenigschmidt sold $345, Kirsten Artz sold $200, Tyler Wisenberger sold $178; 8th grade - Koby Duchene sold $189, Lauren Haley sold $177, Amanda Hallerman sold $167. Students received gift cards from Target for their efforts. Great job. The top selling Focused Learning classes at each grade level were: 6th grade - Beth Kuehl’s class with $776; 7th grade - Katie Calvert’s class with $572 and 8th grade - Greg Zutz’s class with $368. Each class received a popcorn party in their Focused Learning time. Nancy Larson, 6th grade teacher and lead organizer of the fundraiser said, “Thank you students for your participation and thank you to the community for supporting our school.” The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

learned about the Snake River that the voyagers used to transport goods to this particular post and went inside the living quarters where the clerks and fur traders lived during the winter trading season. Old tools, blankets, beds and tables were displayed in the living quarters that the voyagers and Indians once used. Students felt as if they were back in time, during the fur trade. The field trip helped many students get a sense of what life was like 200 years ago. Mr. Waterworth added, “The staff at the North West Company Fur Post were absolutely great and also very appreciative of the great behavior and participation of our students.”

St. Francis Middle School students have been taking advantage of getting help from teachers, a quiet place to work or being able to access computers. Teachers Paula Jo Davis and Dawn Nordin have had close to 30 students staying after school. Students have indicated they appreciate being able to get materials organized, help with their math assignments, being able to stay current with their school work and having a computer that works. Homework Help will continue on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for the Paula Jo Davis, SFMS Teacher month of January.

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St. Francis Middle School

Seventh graders define courage at retreat Jennifer Norstrem SFMS Social Worker

Seventh grade students from St. Francis Middle School were involved in day-long retreats in October that focused on the value of courage. This is the tenth year that 7th graders from SFMS have attended this inspiring retreat. Youth Frontiers, Inc. of Minneapolis facilitated the retreat. This non-profit, nonpartisan organization delivers programs that improve school climate and strengthen student character. Their vision is to change the way young people treat each other in every hallway, lunch line and classroom of every school in America. On the Courage Retreat, Youth Frontiers staff members focus on creating a more inclusive school climate by encouraging students to accept people for who they are, resist following the crowd and act with moral courage despite their fears, using activities and programs that prompt them to laugh, reflect and share their thoughts openly. St. Francis High School students also volunteered to help facilitate small group discussions, participate in the activities and be positive leaders for the 7th graders. St. Francis Middle School 7th graders attended the Youth Frontiers, Inc. Courage Retreat in October. Students participated in activities and discussions to facilitate a more inclusive school climate. Submitted Photos

Students write letters to veterans Jessica Rowles SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

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Sixth and 7th grade students from St. Francis Middle School wrote thank you letters to local veterans for their military service, during their Language Arts classes. The letters were presented to the veterans as part of the St. Francis Lions Club Veteran’s Day Breakfast event, which was held on Veterans Day, November 11, at the St. Francis American Legion. Over 61 veterans, plus more than 40 family and community members attended the event to honor the veterans and to listen to the guest speakers. Local resident, Mike Starr, organizer of the Veterans Day Breakfast event, wrote a thank you letter back to SFMS students stating, “Many times I was told at the breakfast to please tell the kids thank you for their letters. It means a lot to get a letter like this.” As part of their Language Arts classes, students from St. Francis Middle School wrote letters to local veterans to thank them for their military service. This helped the students make a local connection while understanding and appreciating the veterans military service. Submitted Photos

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The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

STEM brings microscopes to middle school Kari Rehrauer SFMS 7th grade science teacher

On December 4, students in Kari Rehrauer’s 7th grade science class were able to each use their own microscope for the first time this year because of STEM adoption. In the past, two to three students had to share one microscope. It made a world of difference. They were excited and engaged the entire hour discovering a brand new world. The students were trying out the scopes for the first time and viewing a printed letter “E” at 40, 100 and 400 times magnification. They were shocked to see that what looks as a solid letter is actually blots of ink full of dots and cracks. Once they get used to using the microscopes, they will move on to viewing cork, onion, leaf and cheek cells. Finally, they will be able to view live protists (single-celled organisms) that will be swimming around. Students had positive experiences with the microscopes: “It drags you into a whole different world.” Jacey Vincent “You felt independent.” Audrey Moen “It was cool seeing the cells up close!” Erin Avery “It was kind of cool seeing how detailed things are.” Kalina Garaghty Students in science class at St. Francis Middle School are getting up close to their subjects by learning how to use a microscope. With the adoption of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) at the middle school, resources were allocated to provide a microscope for each student in class, engaging students in hands-on learning. Submitted Photo

Knowledge Bowl meets creativity Katie Calvert, Michaella Fennell, Ted Gehring SFMS Knowledge Bowl Coaches

On December 2, 6th and 7th grade Knowledge Bowl participants were offered the opportunity to go to Success Beyond the Classroom, an annual creativity festival at the Minnesota Science Museum in Saint Paul. While there students were able to choose from 12 different STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) and creative thinking classes where each classroom had a different topic such as Brazilian Martial Arts (capoeira), Buzz on Bees, Logo Design, Squid Dissection, Three-Dimensional Books and Hawaiian Cowboys. Students were able to select three classes to participate in throughout the day plus have time to explore the Science Museum. This is the second year students from SFMS have attended. Students brought many pictures and videos of the work they created in classes and had excellent feedback about what they experienced and learned.

St. Francis Middle School Knowledge Bowl students visited the Science Museum of Minnesota December 2 to participate in the annual Creativity Festival. Twelve different STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) classrooms with a variety of topics were offered. These students chose the Squid Dissection class. Submitted Photo

St. Francis Middle School Book Club Audrey Moen SFMS 7th grade student

The St. Francis Middle School Book Club is back. On November 2 the club had its first official meeting of 2014. The meeting was extremely successful and helped to kick-off what we know will be a year of great progress. The SFMS Book Club is proudly run by 7th grade students Audrey Moen and Maria Laudenbach and advised by 6th grade Language Arts teacher, Mrs. Davis. We designed and created the book club because we love to read for pleasure and for the joy of escaping into another world. Sure, everyone loves sports, but while the middle school offers many sportsbased extra curricular opportunities, there has not been any literature and reading activities… until now. Our fantastic book club is available to any SFMS students in grades 6-8; we even have a few high school participants. We hope to see The St. Francis Middle School Book Club meetings run every first you there! Tuesday of the month, 2:30-3:00 p.m. Sign up now at tinyurl.com/ sfmsbookclub. Pictured (L-R) are Maria Laudenbach, Mrs. Davis and Audrey Moen. Submitted Photo The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Thanks to a generous donation from the St. Francis Lions Club, Knowledge Bowl, an after school activity at St. Francis Middle School, is able to continue and grow in its third year. This year, eight teams with nearly 50 students are participating. On January 17, the SFMS Knowledge Bowl Team will host the first Hula Knowledge Bowl; teams from across the state have been invited. Volunteers are needed for the event. Contact Ted Gehring at ted.gehring@isd15.org if you can help. Submitted Photo

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School Board Highlights School Board Highlights

November 24, 2014 Kathleen Miller Staff writer

All board members present American Indian Education and Multicultural/Diversity Program update Carline Sargent, liaison for the Multicultural/Diversity and Indian Homeschool programs, shared with the School Board the number of cultures and languages in our district. (Information provided at the December 8 School Board meeting by Tim Finn, director of Special Services, indicated there are 575 students who have declared ethnic or racial minority status—9 percent of the student population and 14 reported languages spoken by families in Independent School District 15.) Sargent has coordinated several events including the American Indian Kick-off, Mix-It-Up during lunch in the high school, a field trip in October to the Minnesota History Center for Dia de Los Muertos: Day of the Dead Celebration, students attending We Day at the Excel Center in St. Paul, an African drum and dance workshop, a celebration of indigenous people and a Hmong New Year celebration. Information about the programs can be found at www.isd15. org/aie and www.isd15.org/ diversity. Middle school students attend We Day event St. Francis Middle School world cultures teacher Ted Gehring introduced a few 7th grade student representatives who attended the We Day celebration in St. Paul November 12. We Day is an annual series of stadium-

School Board Members David Roberts, Chairman 763-843-0013 Marsha Van Denburgh, Vice Chairwoman 763-753-6653 Barbara Jahnke, Clerk 763-753-6846 Suzanne Erkel, Treasurer 763-413-1195 Janet Hunt, Director 763-221-5341 Amy Kelly, Director 763-744-8458 Betsy Roed, Director 763-434-9570 Email: schoolboard@isd15.org 14

sized events around the country, bringing together world-renowned speakers and performers. Thousands of students earn admission to the event by taking on one local and one global action. SFMS students shared some of the themes of the event, which included empowerment through economics, technology, social themes and education. Students will put their experiences from the event to work during Trimester 2. Closed sessions The School Board moved into closed session to meet with legal counsel to discuss the arbitration decision in BMS Case No. 14-TD-7 and to discuss potential District action in response to the arbitration decision. The School moved into closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategies.

School Board Highlights

December 8, 2014

Kathleen Miller Staff writer

All board members present High school students recognized St. Francis High School Activities Director Jeff Fink recognized four outstanding students. In attendance were John Santiago, a Mr. Football finalist--first student to be nominated for this award from SFHS; Bailey Demar, who placed fourth in the triple jump at the state meet and has signed a letter of intent with North Dakota State University; and Triple A Award recipient Rachel Ulrich, named most valuable player in volleyball and a saxophone player. Ethan Sherring, who was not in

School Board Meeting Schedule

attendance, was also a Triple A Award recipient. The award recognizes and honors two high school seniors (a male and a female) who have excelled in the classroom (GPA of 3.7 or higher), on the athletic field and in the arts. Site Report: East Bethel Community School Principal Angie Scardigli and Katie Arnold, dean of students, presented highlights from EBCS. Scardigli thanked the school board for resources and initiatives in place this school year. During October, the focus was anti-bullying month. Students and staff wore orange on October 22, National Bullying Day and signed a petition to stand up to bullying. The all-school orange day will continue once a month throughout the school year to continue the anti-bullying theme. Districtwide Liaison Officer Jody and Arnold read to students on the bullying theme. Other initiatives noted were art is back with the addition of an art teacher, a reading corps grant has provided a tutor for the 2014-15 school year, the addition of a dean of students position, foster grandparent program, WIN (what I need

to know) Time, which allows time each day for intervention, practice and enrichment, an after school choir program offered by Community Education and a music program with recorders. Middle school takes on world domination theme Education Minnesota St. Francis President Deb Parson introduced two students from St. Francis Middle School. Izzy Leibel and Sylvia Bownds presented their projects for this school year’s theme of World Domination—One Student at a Time. Sylvia reported on a book drive she started with a goal of collecting 100 books by the end of January to support other students. Izzy’s project focused on creating a healthy, organic hand lotion and she shared the list of ingredients and showed the final product. Property Tax Hearing Director of Business Services Scott Nelson opened the hearing for the Proposed 2014 Payable 2015 Property Tax Levy. He presented the 2014-15 budget and proposed tax levy 2014 payable 2015 showing the percentage change from the 2013 payable 2014 final tax levy. In Minnesota, school

districts are required to present information on the budget for the current school year, the proposed tax levy, including the percentage increase/decrease over the prior year and specific purposes for which taxes are being adjusted. Budget highlights for the general fund showing revenue sources for 2014-15 include 85 percent from state sources, 9 percent from local property tax levies, 3.7 percent from federal sources and 2.4 percent from other local and county revenues. The school district must allow for public comments; there were no questions or comments during the hearing. The Truth in Taxation presentation can be found at www.isd15.org/ taxhearing. Closed sessions The School Board moved into closed session to engage in attorney-client privileged discussions. The Board seeks to meet with legal counsel to discuss the arbitration decision in BMS Case No. 14-TD-7 and to discuss potential District action in response to the arbitration decision. The School moved into closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategies.

High school theatre department partners with community drug awareness group Glenn Morehouse Olson SFHS Theatre Coach

The St. Francis High School Theatre Department will perform the one act play The Brick and the Rose on Friday, January 30, 7:00 p.m. in partnership with the St. Francis Community Drug Awareness Group at the Performing Arts Center. A powerful and compelling play, this is the kaleidoscopic drama of a young boy from the moment of his birth in a charity hospital, until his tragic death. In an effort to find something besides “hardness and hitting out and twisted people all afraid,” Tommy turns to narcotics and

thus creates his own world: one in which he is not constantly gnawed by an acute awareness of the meaninglessness of what is going on around him. He meets Alice, in whom he sees his lifelong search for beauty: the rose behind the hard brick city. He knows that he has only touched this beauty for an instant and he sees it moving farther away from him. A cast of 16 play 45 different characters in this moving tragedy. The 30-minute production will be followed by a panel discussion which will include the director, actors from the play, a chemical counselor, survivors and family members who have personally felt the devastating effects of addiction.

School board meetings are held at the Community Room in the Central Services Center located at 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis. Monday, January 12 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Organizational Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, January 29 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 9 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Live streaming and video archives of school board meetings are available at www.isd15.org/sbvideo

The St. Francis High School Theatre Department will perform the one act play The Brick and The Rose on Friday, January 30, 7:00 p.m. at the St. Francis High School Performing Arts Center. Submitted Photo The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Community & Business Anoka County compost site will reopen two weekends in January Martha Weaver Anoka County Public Information Manager

Anoka County’s two compost sites, located in Bunker Hills Regional Park one mile north of Main Street on Hanson Boulevard in Coon Rapids, will reopen for two weekends in January to receive Christmas trees and evergreen garland (not heavily bound with wire), as well as other types of yard and tree waste. Examples of acceptable yard and tree waste include leaves, grass clippings, garden waste, weeds, brush, logs and stumps. Bunker Hills Compost Site special January hours are: } Saturday, January 3 and 10: 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. } Sunday, January 4 and 11: Noon-4:30 p.m. Residents are asked to remove all wire from evergreen boughs and garland before bringing them to the compost site. Christmas trees should

be free of tinsel, and any ornaments, wire and stands. There is a $1.50 charge per Christmas tree. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle for debagged leaves, grass clippings and garden waste up to four cubic yards. An additional 50 cents per yard will be charged in excess of four cubic yards. There is a variable fee for tree waste disposal, depending on the size and amount of the material. Residents are asked to keep yard waste separate from tree waste. Note Most garbage haulers offer Christmas tree collection as part of their service. Some municipalities collect and chip Christmas trees for mulch. Contact your hauler or municipality to obtain specific pickup information in your area. The Bunker Hills Compost Site will reopen for the warmer weather season on Wednesday, April 1 and Rice Creek Chain of Lakes compost site will

reopen on Thursday, April 2, weather permitting. Please visit www. AnokaCounty.us/recycle or call 763-323-5730 for more information.

Sports & Outdoors

PAGE 25

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Fitness Matters

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Question My weeks are extremely busy and it’s tough enough to find time to exercise. Now, I’m learning that I need to strength train in addition to my cardio. I don’t always have time to do this separately. Is there a way to mix cardio into my strength training routine to maximize my exercise time? Answer The easiest way to mix cardio and strength is to alternate the two disciplines in short segments. Perform two strength exercises and immediately get on your favorite cardio machine for 3-5 minutes. You can also shorten up the time spent between your strength exercises and move quickly to the next exercise to keep your heart rate elevated. This will provide a cardio challenge without having to find additional time to jump on cardio equipment. Keep track of your current rest between sets and slowly begin to decrease the rest time to 30 seconds. This is a good start but remember, to continue to get results, you need to change your workouts, shock your body to change. If nothing changes, nothing changes. Most people just don’t know what to do. Lucky for you the professionals at health clubs do. Stop in, ask some questions, get help so you can get the results you desire. Submitted Photo

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Join the 12 week weight-loss challenge starting Tuesday, January 13. Classes begin at 6:15 p.m. At our new location in St. Francis Anoka Hennepin Credit Union 23122 St. Francis Blvd. NW For more information, call 763-753-3242 or email wmdwellness@outlook.com. The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

New year, new you? William Israelson Ascension Fitness Training

If this is the way I want to live my life, then this the way I will live. It’s my life! Ever hear these words? They are said quite often by people who have bad habits and are not willing or capable of changing them. In one way they are right; however, in another way they are wrong. My life, your life, all of our lives are intertwined and connected. The most important connections are to the ones we love and cherish and it is important to be healthy and live our lives the best we can. Several years ago I decided to change the direction that my health was headed. I decided to live a healthier life, not just for myself but also for the ones around me—my wife, my children and everyone that surrounds me. I started with my nutrition. Then I added a regular exercise program. It took some time and effort and a lot of hard work. I did fall off

the wagon more than once. However, I stayed committed and always got back on track. I am now 100 pounds lighter and my life is totally different—all for the best for my life and the lives around me that matter the most. With the New Year just around the corner, a lot of people will start a new health initiative. Here are some simple tips for a successful journey to a better you: } Set both short-term and long-term goals. } Focus on nutrition first, then training. } Be smart. Start small. Little changes add up. } If you fall, get back up! } Surround yourself with positive affirmations, people, music and environment. } And remember, just because it works for someone else doesn’t mean it should work for you. Build your own personal program to be successful! Good luck and Happy New Year!

Member Testimonial After a head -on highway collision that I was lucky to survive, I was told by multiple doctors that I’d never be able to run or do any competitive sports again. I have plates, rods and screws in my body. I ached with weather changes and couldn’t even jump. So I just accepted what the doctors said and did nothing for five years but gain fat, weight and watched my health deteriorate. Then I joined Anytime Fitness with the determination to prove the doctors wrong. Since I didn’t know how to reach my goals, I immediately started personal training with Brad Enzler. He truly believed in me and helped motivate and encourage me to where I am today. After only six weeks of training, I was running again. Within six months, I was able to run a mile, jump again and complete a Warrior Dash as a part of the Anytime Fitness team! In less than a year I have lost significant body fat, four pant sizes, 30 pounds, and I have improved my health and stamina. My confidence level is soaring, I am back to the person I am meant to be. I have learned about food and how to eat to fuel my body. The money I save not buying junk food more than pays for my membership and training with money left over for new clothes!

In the beginning

I made the time for myself to work out in spite of having three boys under age seven, the youngest only 18 months old. I can’t give them a better present than a healthy and happy mom. I’m able to run and play with them and I am setting a good example by being healthy. I want to be here to see all their life accomplishments. The staff at Anytime Fitness has been great in supporting me along the way. They really do want to help the members reach their goals. I am one of many success stories you can read on their Wall of Fame. I have reached so many small goals already that it encourages me to keep my eye on the goals I’m still working toward. I can’t even imagine where I’d be today Stop in had I not joined Anytime Fitness.

Kim Marino

Proud Anytime Fitness member and success story

and ask us how we can help you achieve our goals!

On the way to my goal

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anytimefitness.com 19

East Bethel Royalty volunteered at the Cedar East Bethel Lions Breakfast with Santa on December 6 at Cedar Creek Community School, doing crafts with children. Submitted by Jean Johnson

Are Your Toenails Discolored and Thick? If so, you may have Toenail Fungus. The Minnesota Clinical Study Center would like you to call about a research study of an investigational drug for people with toenail fungus. To qualify you should:  Be 18 to 70 years of age  Have at least one big toenail affected with fungus  Be willing to attend 11 clinic visits over 60 weeks Participants will be compensated for their time and travel. All study related evaluations will be done by a board certified dermatologist. Steven Kempers, M.D. For more information, please call

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Minnesota Clinical Study Center 7205 University Avenue NE Fridley, MN 55432 20

The Cedar East Bethel Lions and Lioness Clubs recently sponsored their annual Breakfast with Santa event at Cedar Creek Community School. Families were able to visit with Santa, make crafts, fish in the fish pond and enjoy a pancake breakfast. Pictured with Santa are Camden and Wyatt Bauer of East Bethel. Joan Mager, Cedar East Bethel Lion’s

CITY OF ST. FRANCIS

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEMBER NEEDED The City is looking for a St. Francis resident to serve on the Economic Development Authority Board. There is currently one vacancy. If you are interested in the quality of life in your city and would like to be a part of seeing that happen, the City of St. Francis would like to hear from you. The Economic Development Authority (EDA) is responsible for recommending and advising on economic development opportunities in the City of St. Francis. The EDA meets on an as needed basis. If you are interested in participating, please call or stop by City Hall Monday-Thursday, 7:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. for an application or call 763-753-2630. City Hall is located at 23340 Cree Street NW in St. Francis or visit the City’s website at www.stfrancismn.org and click on Job tab.

EOE

Nowthen Lions Club th

6 Annual Ice Fishing Contest

Saturday, February 7 East Twin Lake, Nowthen Registration at 9:00 a.m. Contest starts at 11:00 a.m. sharp! Final weigh-in is 2:00 p.m. Prizes for 3 largest fish caught $250, $100 & $50

Door Prizes throughout the event Kids Prizes • Same Day Raffle • Hot Food and Drinks Tickets are $10 per hole and available presale and on the lake. No portable ice houses or glass containers. Complete set of rules available at the weigh-in table. For more information, call Jeff at 763-238-0596, email to jeff@stewyspainting.com –or– Judy at 763-753-6962, email to jlhbells@earthlink.net. This event is a fundraiser for the Nowthen Lions Club. Look for parking signs at the lake. Special assistance available for those in need. The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Volunteers needed to provide senior services

Anoka County Library Events for January Sean Emery—Live at the Library

Martha Weaver

Professionally trained with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Sean Emery will wow you with his jaw-dropping juggling stunts on January 3, 2:00 p.m. at the Rum River Library. You will be asking yourself, “How does he do that?” Emery holds the record for the longest running performance at the Minnesota State Fair, having performed every day of the fair for the past 21 years. Circus-y fun and lots of laughs for the whole family to enjoy! The program is free and open to the public, but seating may be limited. Please call 763-576-4695 for more information. The Rum River Library is located at 4201 6th Avenue in Anoka. This free program is presented in partnership with MELSA and is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Anoka County Public Information Manager

Become a part of a National Movement—volunteer! Anoka County RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) connects people interested in volunteering with organizations that are responding to local and critical community needs. Anoka County RSVP has current opportunities available assisting Anoka County senior or low-income and disadvantaged citizens to file their income, property and mobile home tax returns beginning in February. Volunteers must pass a background check. No previous tax experience needed. Training is required and will be provided 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. either during Session 1: January 5, 7, 9, 13, 15—or—Session 2: January 6, 8, 12, 14, 16. Morning and afternoon shifts of three to four hours are available. Volunteers are needed at various locations February through July. An experienced tax volunteer staffs each site to offer support and assistance to new volunteers. To register for the training, contact Tricia at 763-422-7090.

Minecraft January Share strategies with other Minecrafters on January 5, 12 or 26, 4:00 p.m. at the Rum River Library. Explore new terrain, gather raw materials and create amazing structures. For kids age 7 and up. Register online or call the library. The Rum River seanemery.com Library is located at 4201 6th Avenue in Anoka.

Sean Emery

We have preschool openings!

Trading Card Game Day Play the card games Magic the Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh and others on January 24, 1:00 p.m. Bring your own deck or borrow one of ours. Those new to the games are welcome to come and learn. The Centennial Library is located at 100 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines. For more information, call 763-717-3294.

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Village Bank raises money for Achieve Shelly Burr Voila! Media Group

Pictured are Tom Weaver and Carol Donahoe from Achieve Services, Inc., Randy Diers, Village Bank president, Don Kveton, Village Bank owner and Darlene Jones, Village Bank senior relationship banker. Submitted Photo

Village Bank organized the Bus for a Buck fundraiser to help non-profit Achieve Services, Inc. Achieve is a licensed day training and habilitation program serving adults with developmental disabilities. During the month of October, Village Bank raised $1,300. Achieve Services, Inc. describes themselves as having “Personability,” the unique blend of personality and ability that every Achieve Services worker brings to the job. The personalized training, supervision and dedication help our clients achieve their full potential as individuals. The infectious enthusiasm, positive attitude and outstanding work ethic that sets Achieve workers of all abilities apart from the workforce. For more information about Achieve, visit their website at www.achieveservices.org. Village Bank is proud to support this organization as they believe in their mission statement, “By creating innovative opportunities that inspire people with disabilities, Achieve will enable every participant to lead a meaningful and self-determined life.” Village. It’s the village in Village Bank. It’s community, it’s our neighborhood, it’s our people, it’s your kids’ stomping ground—however you want to say it, it’s where we live. We believe in individuals and bringing people and families together in your village.

Home Improvement & Service Guide Did you know… St. Francis True Value has specials on their Facebook page? Check it out for extra savings! Also, if you are a veteran, you receive 10% discount on any purchase anytime to thank you for your service.

Clayton’s Appliance Repair is a second generation, family owned business for over 36 years. If you have trouble with your hot water heater, we can fix that. We also can service your dryer vents to improve efficiency and prevent fire hazard.

Advertise your business here for only $45. Send your information, with an additional feature you want readers to know about your business to janice.audette@isd15.org or call 763-753-7032 by the week of January 5 for the February issue. Thank you.

Ice Fishing Supplies Small Engine Repair Equipment Rentals U-Hauls Bird Seed & Houses plus much, much more!

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Eagle Garage Door Co. St. Francis Residential Commercial • Industrial Springs Cables Openers Doors

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Health care and filing requirement updates for 2014 Submitted by Sannerud Savarese & Associates Under the Affordable Care Act you and your family must either have had health care coverage or qualified for an exemption of coverage in 2014, or you must make a payment when you file your 2014 tax return. You will pay a minimum penalty of $95 per individual ($285 per family) with a maximum penalty of one percent of your income for the year in 2014. } If you have not had to file a return in the past but did not carry health insurance for 2014, you will need to file this year to pay the penalty. } If you signed up for health insurance for 2014 and

you qualify for the Health Insurance Premium can be linked to MNsure.org. Credit, you must file a return to claim the credit. MNsure.org is Minnesota’s Health Insurance } The penalty percentage that you will pay for not Marketplace. Individuals and families should visit electing health coverage will increase every year even if they have existing coverage because they may hereafter (two percent maximum in 2015). find more affordable insurance. } Open enrollment for health care coverage for the Stay informed on your responsibilities and possible Black 2015 calendar year began November 15 and runs tax credits for individual health care coverage. Visit _Pantone_BLK.eps through February 15. Either of the websites listed _CMYK_BLK.epsthe websites mentioned above today. _RGB_BLK.eps below will guide you through the process. _RGB_BLK_Word.jpg HealthCare.gov contains information _RGB_BLK_Screen.jpg on new health insurance coverage and financial assistance options for individuals Tax and accounting and families. Educate yourself on the new services for you insurance options. This is also where you

College-level welding program offered at Cambridge-Isanti High School Tina Perpich Anoka Technical College

Anoka Technical College hosted a kick-off event November 13 for the new basic welding certificate program that will be offered at Cambridge-Isanti High School beginning in spring semester 2015. The event, hosted at the high school, welcomed prospective students, city officials and local business and industry leaders. It also included a tour of the welding facility and a demonstration by a second year welding student. “This is an exciting opportunity for the college, the high school and the community,” said Sherry Butcher Wickstrom, dean of Academic Affairs at Anoka Technical College. “As a technical college, it is our mission to train our students with the high-level skills needed by business and industry. In fact, more than 90 percent of the graduates from our welding program find jobs in related fields.” Under the partnership, the high school’s welding facility is being upgraded and expanded to meet the needs for a college-level lab. Sixteen welding booths have already been redesigned at the school and an additional nine booths will be added next summer to offer weekend and evening welding classes. Employment for welders is projected to grow 18 percent in Minnesota from 2012 to 2022, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Minnesota

and your growing business.

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By appointment Department of Employment and Economic Development. Welders in Minnesota earn a median hourly wage of $18.95. Services include: More about the welding program Individual Income Taxes • Business Taxes The 17-credit basic welding certificate program, open to both the public and high Tax Planning • Quickbooks & Peachtree Assistance school students, is designed for individuals seeking a well-rounded foundation in welding and a fast-track into a welding career. The 14115 Lincoln Street, Suite 400 certificate courses serve as the first semester Ham Lake, MN 55304 courses for the college’s welding technology diploma and the Associates in Applied Science (AAS) degree. www.SauerCPA.com Students can start the welding program as high school juniors, earn college credits and continue to get certification. The Anoka Technical College Certified Public Accountants welding technology program Specializing in accounting and taxes for closely-held and family-owned businesses since 1974. is designed and taught by Tax season office hours through April 14 are: industry professionals to Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. provide graduates exceptional Or by Wednesday and Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. welding skills for success in the appointment. Saturday 8:00 a.m.-Noon workplace. Not only will the new program serve students, • www.sannerudsavarese.com it will help serve the region 1207 Constance Boulevard NE • Ham Lake, MN 55304 as the need for high-quality welders continues to increase. For more information about this program or any of the Anoka Technical College career programs, visit AnokaTech.edu. Certified Public Accountant

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763-444-4856 23

I Hate When That Happens

Randy Gerdin ASE certified technician

Maintenance is the name of the game. It is astonishing to me how long modern vehicles can last and still look and perform great. A few years ago I replaced my wife’s car. The replacement car was six years old and had 102,000 miles on it when we purchased it. It looked and ran like new and was less than one-third of the cost of a brand new car. I knew what I wanted, but it took some looking around and a few tests drives before we found “the one.” The car needed some repairs, but it is a great car and looks and performs like new. This vehicle was owned by someone that drove a lot, because it had a lot of miles on it for its age. Often miles put on quickly are good miles. It was obvious that the previous owner had taken care of it. In other words, they had done the maintenance. We now have close to 170,000 miles and it’s still a great car. At the shop, we are seeing more vehicles with between 100K and 225K miles. Sure, things

need attention and nothing mechanical lasts forever. In fact we have had a number of people with 150K miles plus replace engines or transmissions in their vehicles. If the vehicle’s body and frame are sound, it may be less expensive to make that major investment instead of buying a new or even a used vehicle that you may not know the maintenance history of. Some folks are smart and keep track of the maintenance so when they sell the vehicle, they can show what has been done. This can be very valuable to a potential buyer. In many cases, people have found they can put three to five thousand dollars into their existing vehicle and drive it for many years. One must remember that, when buying a new car, unless you pay cash, they come with a lot of extra expenses. I know some companies advertise zero percent interest; however you need to read the fine print. Things are not always as

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Andover Family Eyecare 3480 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Suite #101 Andover

763.712.9854 Amanda Schmitz, O.D.

Providers for EyeMed, VSP, Medica, BCBS, HealthPartners, Preferred One, Davis Vision, and many more.

good care of it. We see many vehicles of all makes and models that have over 250K miles on them and they are still very reliable transportation. There are many people who can afford a new car or just want one. If that is you, go for it. I realize that every vehicle has a time where the cost of keeping it going is not worth it or the vehicle may become unsafe. Sometimes we have to deliver this news to folks, “It’s time to look for something else.” A good maintenance shop will look out for the customer’s best interest. Don’t be afraid to get a professional opinion regarding your vehicle. If the maintenance shop serviced the vehicle for its life, they most likely will know what is best. Please remember—maintenance is the name of the game.

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St. Francis Eyecare Jeffrey W. Williams, O.D.

they appear. There is also the added expense of increased insurance costs. There will be a payment that is due every single month until it is paid off. Along with those costs, new vehicles will need normal maintenance, repairs, tires, etc. Some new cars come with two to three years of factory maintenance free; however, it’s normally a few oil changes and a couple of tire rotations, really not a big deal. Every car comes with a warranty for at least three years, but not much goes wrong in that short time span. Recently we had a customer bring in a pickup he had purchased that had 145,000 miles on it. I am not sure what he paid for it, but he purchased a “premium” aftermarket warranty that was supposed to cover everything for three years or 36,000 miles. I know he spent over $2,800 for the warranty. The pickup needed a few repairs, so I called the warranty company and they covered only some of his issues, not all. He was very disappointed after paying big money for this warranty and then finding out it does not cover what he expected. I hate when that happens. This is a common theme we see when it comes to extended warranties. I guess you can tell I am not a big fan. Most of the time people could save the money, fix what comes up and be money ahead. Just sayin’. I feel that the most cost-effective way for vehicle ownership is to buy used and take

Get a strong team to pull for you We are proud to be a part of the community and invite you to discover how we may assist you with your mortgage needs.

Rev 2/13 The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Sports & Outdoors High school wrestling season off to a great start Penny Worthington SFHS Wrestling Booster Club

The Saints wrestling team is off to a great start with two tournament wins and a dual win over arch rival Chisago Lakes. The first individual tournament was the Mound Westonka Turkey Burn, with the Saints finishing in first place over Anoka, Mound Westonka, Hibbing, St. Cloud Tech, Northfield, Mahtomedi, and Brainerd. The Saints had eight wrestlers in the finals with Aaron Wilson claiming the 145 pound weightclass championship and Blaine Nordin claiming the heavyweight championship. Dual meet action against Chisago Lakes resulted in the Saints continuing their winning ways with seven falls. Final score: Saints 56, Chisago Lakes 12. The second individual tournament was held December 6. The Saints wrestlers were victorious once again claiming the Shakopee

Tournament 2014. Six Saints won their way to the finals. Bo Blanske, 220 pounds, and Blaine Nordin, heavyweight, claimed championships giving the Saints their second individual tournament victory over Shakopee, Bloomington Kennedy, Osakis, Rosemount, Stillwater, Rochester Mayo, Rochester Century and Blaine. They won by a mere 4.9 points over Shakopee. The varsity wrestling team recorded another victory December 12 at North Branch High School. Congratulations Saints, for a 72-6 win! Upcoming home meets include St. Michael-Albertville on January 16 and CambridgeIsanti on January 22, which is also Parent Night/Senior Night. St. Francis High School will be hosting the All Conference tournament on January 30. Come and cheer for the Saints!

Stay fit when temperatures drop

There is no reason to stop exercising when the temperature drops. The American Heart Association says working out in the cold weather has distinct advantages over working out in hot, humid conditions. When the weather is cold, you may be able to work out longer and harder because the heat wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t zap your energy levels, and exercising outdoors in the winter is a great way to get small doses of sunlight that can improve mood and help your body produce more vitamin D. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says exercise can help boost your immune system, which can help you fight colds and flu symptoms. Just a few minutes of exercise each day can help prevent simple viral and bacterial infections as well.

Source: Metro Creative Graphics, Inc. The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

The St. Francis High School wrestling team is all smiles after winning the Shakopee tournament, which was held December 6. The Saints will host the All Conference tournament January 30. Submitted photo

North Metro Soccer Association

Recreational Program Spring/Summer 2015 Online Registration Now Open Traditional Recreational Program $115 Includes Full Uniform (ages as of 8/1/2014) Monday/Wednesday ages 4 & 5 (U6 co-ed) ages 6 & 7 (U8 boys) ages 8 & 9 (U10 girls) ages 10 & 11 (U12 girls) Tuesday/Thursday ages 6 & 7 (U8 boys and girls) ages 8 & 9 (U10 boys) ages 10 & 11 (U12 boys) ages 12-14 (U13-U15 co-ed) ages 15-17 (U16-U18 co-ed) The Recreational Program will stress basic soccer fundamentals. Practices will be held on one night and games on the other. Each team consists of one or two volunteer coaches and 10-14 players. Fields are located in Andover and Oak Grove. The season begins April 27 and ends on June 27 with the Jamboree.

Comp Prep Program

Mini Metros Program

$135 Includes Full Uniform Monday/Wednesday Ages 7 & 8 (U8 boys and girls) The Comp Prep Program is devised for Rec players that have some experience playing U8 Rec soccer and already exhibit strong soccer skills. It is also for players who want an increased level of training and more playing time in the Spring/ Summer and who anticipate playing Competitive Soccer the following year. There will be minimal additional fees (less than $50 for the season) to participate in up to four weekend Jamborees. See website for details.

$60 Includes Shirt Tuesday OR Thursday ages 3 & 4 (Birthday between 8/1/10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1/1/12) Introduction to soccer through trainer-led soccer related activities and games.

Walk-In Registration & Questions Answered Saturday, January 31 9:15-11:45 a.m. Andover Community Center 15200 Hanson Blvd. NW Andover, 55304 The registration fee will increase by $35 beginning March 1. Registration closes March 15.

Co-Coaches

Please consider volunteering as a co-coach. You will be making a big difference for youth and your child by volunteering with NMSA. Coaches will have the assistance of a NMSA sponsored trainer who will visit practices and games throughout the season. All coaches receive a $35 reimbursement on registration fees after the season ends. Please check the volunteer box to coach when you register your player. Thank you for making a difference.

More details, register online at northmetrosoccer.org Volunteering for positive youth development through soccer. 25

To The Goal

BARB ANDERSON nutritionist, referee, coach, Pact (parents and coaches together) presenter/Minnesota youth soccer association

A New Year opportunity with a big impact Picture this: you are at a youth basketball game at a local school (or in a hockey arena or indoor soccer facility) watching some elementary kids play; let’s say these kids are in 4th grade. For many, it is a first experience with organized sports. Thanks to the volunteer coach, they have been practicing and really learning a lot. The kids are smiling and having a great time—as youth sports should be. One team starts to fall behind and there is a person sitting next to you beginning to make comments loud enough for all to hear, such as, “Work harder, Grant.” “That was your guy to guard.” “Come on ref; call that!” His negative comments and tone begin to bring tension to the kids playing and we see the fun slowly leave the game. His own child becomes tense and frustrated and actually plays worse instead of better! The sidelines get a little tense as a few

people give the loud commenting parent a few glances, but no one says anything to him. What should we do? A few ideas include, if you are directly next to Mr. Negative, start a conversation with him asking him a couple of questions such as which one is his child or if he played any sports, etc. This can bring a pause to the negativity. Then a few comments about how great it is the kids have an opportunity to play can help refocus the purpose of being there. Another idea is to offer all positive comments, such as, “Good job guys/ girls.” “Way to work hard” and so on. Overcome the negative with positive. Others will follow and all will enjoy the game more. Many parents know each other and some teams have a team parent who organizes things—it may be time to have a conversation away

from the game with Mr. Negative. He may not even realize how he sounds or is affecting the game and his own child. There is a saying, “We must be the change we want to see in the world.” (Ghandi) In youth sports, we surely can be the change as the parent/ grandparent/bystander. It is a new year and this new opportunity may come your way; try it! There are many resources to help us. Listen to Changing the Game by John O’Sullivan or visit these websites: www. changingthegameproject.com; www.responsiblesports.com; www.postitivecoach.org. There is a great new year ahead! File Photo

SODERVILLE/BLAINE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION Registration will be in February for the 2015 baseball and softball season. Registration will be open for in-house baseball, 8U softball and 10U and 12U C level traveling fastpitch softball.

SBAA has programs available for boys and girls ages 5 and up.

St. Francis High School students in Business Professionals of America (BPA), held their annual dodgeball tournament. Pictured above are tournament winners (L-R) Blake Woitel, Shane Benson, Matt Haggerty, Jake Bromen, Dustin Doucette, Ben Servais and Tyler Struntz. 3085 Bridge Street

Patriot Lanes Bar and Grill

St. Francis 763-753-4011

Hours 11:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.

Check us out at patriotlanesbarandgrill.com

New!

line Register onat

February 1–28 .org www.sodervilleblaine using a credit card. The following walk-in registration date is available at the SBAA Building at 1831 153rd Avenue NE, Ham Lake, MN

Wednesday, February 25 5:00-8:00 p.m. If you have any questions, please call 763-413-3555 or send an email to operations@soderville.org.

Umpires Wanted!

If you are 14 years old or older and are interested in being an umpire for baseball, please register online using the website above. We will train you and pay you based on your experience level. 26

Try our New Synthetic Lanes for a better bowling experience!

Join a Mixed Bowling League January 9!

Bowling Special

New Year’s Day $1.50/ game

Ne yAr’s Ev pRt HeE Call to sign up for

Moonlight Bowling Win Prizes!

Submitted Photo

Dodgeball Tournament By Jordan Westling BPA President, SFHS student

On October 23, St. Francis High School students in Business Professionals of America (BPA), formerly known as DECA, held their annual dodgeball tournament. Students formed teams and battled it out for the championship. This event is something that high school students look forward to. Proceeds from the event go to decrease competition fees. The dodgeball tournament was a blast and fun was had by all who attended. Winners received T-shirts and golden dodgeballs to display their win the next day in school. BPA members worked hard to make the event fun for everyone who played and watched, and it’s safe to say, they succeeded.

The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Fill snow days with activities and fun A blizzard of white flakes has been falling through the night, and the school phone chain has begun. As expected, children will have a day off from school, leaving parents scrambling for ways to keep children occupied and supervised. Snow days may be coveted by kids (and teachers), but they may not be as beloved by parents who are unaccustomed to having kids home during the week. Working parents whose businesses are open do not have the same luxury as their children to roll over in bed and avoid trekking through the white stuff. But just because snow days are unexpected, that does not mean parents can’t plan for them. Establish a snow day plan Parents who cannot take days off from work will need a contingency plan for snow days. Organize a snow day club, wherein school parents rotate taking children for the day. Working parents can reciprocate by taking the school kids on a weekend and letting the other parents have a “date night.” Create a snow day entertainment bin Rather than having kids spend the day watching television or playing on their tablets, parents can establish a snow day entertainment bin to encourage their kids to make the most of the day off. The bin can include board games, books, building block sets, paints and other crafts. Plan for an indoor picnic Kids will probably want to spend a portion of the day playing out in the snow. After all of that physical activity, they’re bound to be famished. Spread a blanket out on the living room floor and enjoy a picnic of sandwiches, snacks and hot chocolate. Kids will enjoy the novelty of eating this way. Get cooking Another way to fill the day is to have children participate in making meals. A snowy day is a great time to prepare meals for the rest of the week, as well as tinker with hearty, belly-filling recipes. Older children can help with cutting vegetables and meats, while younger kids can add seasonings to pots and mix ingredients. Involve the kids in choosing the meals. Create snow art Fill squeeze or squirt bottles with some water and food coloring. Allow kids to go out

in the yard and create some pictures with the snow as their canvas. Catch up on cleaning Cleaning may not be the most exciting snow day activity, but it might be the most productive. Children can spend time sorting through toys and belongings in their rooms. Take a nature walk Grab those boots and insulated pants and head outdoors. A walk in the brisk, cold air can boost spirits and introduce kids to the beauty of winter landscapes. Take the camera along and encourage

File photo

kids to snap pictures of their favorite vistas. Source: Metro Creative Graphics, Inc.

On November 2, Jordan Bishman (12), Oak Grove, bagged two bucks with his bow, five minutes apart while hunting with his father. These were Jordan’s first deer. Jordan first shot the button buck at 24 yards, then five minutes later while waiting in the tree stand to track the deer, Jordan shot the 160 pound, eight-point buck at 22 yards. The two bucks were taken in the Oak Grove area. Jordan is a student at St. Francis Middle School. Submitted by Jordan Bishman

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763-434-4772 763-434-7373 Collision Specialists

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Maynard Tradewell (75) with this 225-pound, 10-point buck he shot November 15 in his home town of Fertile. Submitted photo

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The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

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Towing services includes: wheel lifting, flat bedding, tire changes, lockouts, jumpstarts, light and medium duty winching, fuel delivery, and private impounding services.

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St. Francis Auto Parts 763-753-4698

Bonus for cars ’04 or newer!

4140 St. Francis Blvd., just south of town on Hwy. 47 Family Run Business — Open 6 Days A Week Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. • Saturday 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Community Education Community Education Contacts Nancy Wallace, Community Education Coordinator.................. 763-753-7171 Adult Basic Education (GED)...................................................................... 763-753-7190 Melody Panek, Site Coordinator Adult Education & Services......................................................................... 763-213-1640 Driver’s Education/Behind the Wheel Nancy Messerschmidt, Program Supervisor Communications Kathleen Miller, Program Supervisor................................................. 763-753-7042 The Courier Newspaper................................................................................ 763-753-7031 Kathleen Miller, Editor................................................................................ 763-753-7042 Pat Johnson, Graphics................................................................................ 763-753-7025 Deb Thayer, Graphics.................................................................................. 763-753-7031 Janice Audette, Advertising.................................................................... 763-753-7032 Facility Scheduling Nancy Messerschmidt, Program Supervisor................................ 763-213-1589 Family Education & Services....................................................................... 763-753-7170 Jennifer Dupre, Manager Kids Connection Christine Spindler-Schlottman, Program Supervisor.............. 763-213-1616 Kids Connection Cedar Creek Community School Site........ 763-753-7160 Kids Connection St. Francis Elementary School Site.............. 763-213-8674 Preschool Place 15............................................................................................ 763-753-7170 Jenny Dupre, Manager Rec Department Diane Guinn, Program Supervisor...................................................... 763-213-1823 Amy Lindfors, Rec Assistant.................................................................... 763-213-1588 Sandhill Center Christine Spindler-Schlottman, Program Supervisor.............. 763-213-1616 www.isd15.org • www.the-courier.org • www.communityed15.com

Do you have a preschooler? Preschool Place 15 is the place to be! Classes are offered at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove, programming takes place now through May and a limited number of spots are still available. Morning, afternoon and evening sessions are available one, two or three times per week, two hour to two-and-ahalf hour sessions. Most classes are age specific and also available for 2-yearolds and very young 3-yearolds. Sliding fee scale is available based on family size and income. The mission of Preschool Place 15 is to provide a safe environment where young children of all abilities can grow and experience success and their parents can be partners in learning. For more information on classes and to register, visit www.isd15.org/ecfe or call 763-753-7170.

Independent School District 15

Adult Basic Education (ABE) For Adults

Reading

ABE is for anyone age 17 or older not enrolled in a secondary school.

One-to-one instruction is provided.

FREE Confidential Help

Review basic skills before taking a college course.

ABE is sponsored by Metro North Adult Basic Education and Independent School District 15, St. Francis at no cost to you.

Personal Learning Plans Students develop their own learning goals, plans and schedules.

Licensed Teachers And Trained Tutors

English Language Learners These classes are for foreign-born adults who want to read, write, listen to and speak English.

Rewards

Instruction is individual and is done oneto-one or in small groups.

Basic Skills ‘Brush Up’

Class Times

Preparation For GED GED instruction, materials and practice tests are available to fully prepare students for the exam.

High School Diploma Program Students earn credits to complete high school diploma.

Days: Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Evenings: Tuesday and Thursday 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Located at the Lifelong Learning Center 18900 Cedar Dr. NW, Oak Grove, MN 55011 www.communityed15.com/abe Melody Panek, Instructor/Coordinator Drop in during any class time or call 763-753-7190 for more information.

ABE is a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education 28

Specially designed for fall 2015 kindergartners and their parents Kindergarten is just a few short months away. Now is the time to think about what skills your child should know, what the kindergarten expectations are, and how you can support your child as they take that big step. Destination Kindergarten is designed to help parents and children make this transition as smooth as possible. In the three-week session at Cedar Creek Community School, there will be parent/child activity time in a kindergarten classroom and then parent discussion time in a separate room while your child has time to explore the kindergarten environment. Parent discussion time will focus on moving into kindergarten…What choices do you have? What considerations are there for first time kindergartners in the “big school?” How do children maneuver through bus and classroom routines? Kindergarten There will be time to discuss and ask here I questions with kindergarten teachers come! and other kindergarten parents. Parents and children from across the district will benefit. Dates: Thursdays January 15–29 Time: 6:30-8:00 p.m. Location: Cedar Creek Community School Fee: $12 per child for the three-week session Deadline: January 13

Prepare For College Courses

Students will achieve academic and personal goals, become better equipped to pursue further employment and gain self-confidence.

Reading, writing, spelling and math instruction is available.

Destination Kindergarten

in a fun FITNESS and relax atmosphere! We offer plenty of ways for you to get in shape, so you’ll never be bored with working out. We have two treadmills, two elliptical trainers, two stationary bikes and a Nautilus four-station weight machine.

Relaxed atmosphere—senior citizens are encouraged to attend! Socialize after your workout in our conference room. Only $2 per visit and no membership fees. Call Chris today for more information or email christine.schlottman@isd15.org Fitness 15 • Sandhill Center 23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005

Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m.–Noon The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Bright Beginnings in ISD 15 Early Childhood 763-753-7170

Call ECFE at for more information or to register for any of the opportunities on this page. Lifelong Learning Center • 18900 Cedar Drive NW, Oak Grove • Online at www.isd15.org/ecfe Follow ISD 15 Early Childhood on Facebook to stay in the know and connect with other parents.

Looking for special events and field trips?

Check out the Places to Go, Things to Do brochure featuring special events and field trips for families.

Upcoming ECFE Events

2014 Birth-Day Bash

An Early Childhood Family Education representative will contact you about resources available for you and your family, information on classes, and a free gift! Call Melissa at 763-753-7178 or email infantvisits@isd15.org. Early Childhood Family Education A division of ISD 15 Community Education www.isd15.org 763-753-7170

Do you and your children need something to do in this cold weather? Check out Pop In and Play!

Pop in for fun activities. Meet other families and build relationships that last a lifetime. No pre-registration requires. Day: Tuesday Time: 12:45-2:45 p.m. Day: Friday Time: 9:15-11:15 a.m. Fee: $4 per child, max $12 per family Upcoming Themes: January 6: Shapes are Everywhere January 9: Gym Fun January 13: 1, 2, 3 Math You See January 16: Science Fun January 20: Making Music January 23: Brown Bear, Brown Bear January 27: Pete the Cat January 30: Farm Animals February 3: Glitter, Glue and You! February 6: Three Little Bears

Welcome Baby!

Celebrating Baby Goodnight Moon at Stages Theater

Stages Theater will magically perform the classic story book, Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and illustrated by Clement Hurd. Watch as the pictures on the wall, the toys in their box and the moon all become characters before your eyes. Stages Theater does not allow food or beverages in the theater, so pack a lunch to eat on the bus. Date: Wednesday, February 4 Time: Bus leaves Lifelong Learning Center at 11:00 a.m.; returns by 3:00 p.m. Fee: $11 per person Deadline: Noon, January 16

Early Childhood Advisory Council

Your baby must be nine months of age or younger when you attend the event. Enjoy songs and games together and meet others who are experiencing the joys and challenges of raising a baby. Don’t forget to pick up your free gift. Free Sisters and Brothers Care is available for Celebrating Baby but you must pre-register. Date: Thursdays, January 29 & February 5 Time: 9:30-11:15 a.m. Location: Lifelong Learning Center Fee: FREE

a division of ISD 15 Community Education

We’re making a family connection.

Early Family Childhood Education (ECFE) is: A place for babies A place for toddlers A place for preschoolers A place for all dads, moms and other relatives in a parenting role ECFE is a place where parents and young children learn and play together and meet other families with young children. ECFE provides information about getting ready for school, discipline, child development, communication and growing together as a family. ECFE parent/child includes:

Time Together For children ages birth to kindergarten and their parents Bring the family and enjoy fun activities designed especially for children birth to 5 years. Plinko, Book Brook, Bowling, face painting, inflatable jumper and much more! Don’t forget to check out the Basket Raffle and all of the wonderful baskets that have been put together. Bring your camera for a fun photo opportunity!

Saturday, February 7 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Lifelong Learning Center (LLC)

18900 Cedar Drive, Oak Grove $3 per child, max of $7 per family (no fee for adults) PLUS a non-perishable food item

The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Parents and children explore a variety of activities planned by a licensed early childhood teacher.

Time for Play

A special day for all those babies born in 2014! If you missed Celebrating Baby when your child was tiny or if you’ve wondered about ECFE, here’s a special bash just for you. Enjoy songs, get helpful hints and meet others who are parenting a baby. Free sibling care is available for children up to age 8, but you must pre-register. Date: Saturday, February 21 Time: 9:45-11:15 a.m. Location: Lifelong Learning Center Fee: FREE Deadline: February 18

Babies and Parents Class A new session of Babies and Parents Class is beginning soon! Enjoy time with your baby to play and time to talk with other parents and a parent educator. Ages: Birth–13 months Dates: Thursdays, February 12–May 7 Time: 9:15-11:15 a.m. Location: Lifelong Learning Center Fee: FREE

Plan Your Year With ECFE Check out the Learn & Thrive brochure for ECFE parent/child classes for the 2014-15 school year. Register NOW for classes! Call 763-753-7170 or visit us online at www.isd15.org/ecfe to register. Daytime and evening classes offered.

For Children Only Make Way for Learning

For children three to five years of age at the time of the event. Reinforce early learning skills in fun, interactive two-time classes. Lots of moving and creative fun for your preschooler. Children must be toileting themselves.

Theme: Winter Wonderland

Snow, ice, hats and gloves, Oh MY! Explore everything winter has to offer indoors! Dates: Wednesday, January 14 & 21 Time: 12:45-2:45 p.m. Fee: $8 per child per two-week class Deadline: January 8

Children practice and discover their own capabilities by experimenting with materials, playing with other children and trying out new activities.

Time for Parents

While children are busy playing, parents meet with other parents. A licensed parent educator will lead the group and guide discussion.

Sibling Care

Care is available for the siblings of the child in class.

The Sandhill Center is a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education. Its purpose is to provide arts and recreation opportunities for ISD 15 residents.

Sandhill Center 23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005

Early Childhood Screening Do you have a child who is three or four years old? Have they been through Early Childhood Screening? Early Childhood Screening should be done soon after the child’s third birthday. Screening is a FREE, simple check of a young child’s health and development; it does not determine kindergarten readiness. Screening includes: a development assessment, vision and hearing checks, immunization and health review. Call 763-753-7187 if you currently have a 3 or 4-year-old child who has not been screened.

Join the Lunch Bunch at the Sandhill Center in the Bethel Cabaret for our monthly catered luncheon featuring top entertainment by popular artists. Make your reservations early as most of our shows sell out ahead of time. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. Doors open: 10:30 a.m. Lunch served: 11:00 a.m.

Showtime: 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Cost: $16.25, sales tax included

For reservations, call 763-213-1641 or 763-213-1616.

Remembering the King

KC General Information 763-213-1616 or 763-213-1641

Gracenotes Trio

Information and registration forms are also available online at www.communityed15.com/kc

Tuesday, February 10 The Gracenotes Trio love to sing old favorites from the 1930s and 40s for parties, church events, receptions, conventions and seminars. In addition to their Andrews Sisters– Big Band style programs, they have added some great songs from the 50s and 60s that appeal to all ages! Their message is positive and upbeat and their programs all include some level of audience participation.

Program Sites

School year care is available now through June 1, 2015. All children must be preregistered.

Cedar Creek Community School 763-753-7160 for East Bethel Community School and Cedar Creek Community School students St. Francis Elementary School 763-213-8674 Before School Care Begins at 6:00 a.m. until school starts ��$9/day After School Care Begins end of school day until 6:00 p.m. ��$9/day Non-School Care 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. ��$31/day Other fees Registration fee ��$35/child each additional child is $10

Sandhill is a Silver and Fit Qualified Center. For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program or the Sandhill Center, please call 763-213-1616.

Line Dancing Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. This is an excellent class for those just beginning in line dance as well as those more experienced line dancers. No registration necessary, come when you want. Day: Wednesday Time: 10:00–11:00 a.m. Fee: $2 per class

SilverSneakers® Classic

SilverSneakers® Yoga

Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a SilverSneakers® ball are offered for resistance. A chair is available if needed for seated or standing support. Days: Tuesdays, Thursdays Time: 9:00–10:00 a.m. Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® members; $2 per class for non-members.

SilverSneakers® Yoga will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of seated and standing postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity. Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays Time: 9:00–10:00 a.m. Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® members; $2 per class for non-members.

Kids Connection

Before and after school childcare

Tuesday, January 6 This performance is sold out!

Kids Connection is a comprehensive childcare program for children kindergarten through grade 5, that provides children a safe, fun experience and offers families a variety of childcare options. The program is open from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Hours include before and after school programs and full day programming on non-school days. Contracts are now available.

Questions?

Call Chris at 763-213-1616. Kids Connection is a division of ISD 15 Community Education

Introducing the 4-year-old childcare program for the 2014-15 school year!

NEW!

Kids Connection will be offering a 4-year-old childcare program (Just 4 Kids) at St. Francis Elementary School. Children will participate in various educational and recreational activities in a safe, well-supervised environment. Children may bring a lunch from home or purchase a school lunch. Ask for details. Program hours are Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Contracts are now available.

Questions?

Call Chris at 763-213-1616. www.communityed15.com/kc Kids Connection is a division of ISD 15 Community Education

The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

Life

Meetings, Benefits & Events

Holocaust survivor to speak

Pet Corner

Dr. Amy Morgan Oak Grove Animal Hospital, Owner

Sandy Golyer St. Francis United Methodist Church

St. Francis United Methodist Church is hosting a lunch and speaker Anita Dittman, holocaust survivor and author of Trapped in Hitler’s Hell. This free event will be Saturday, January 24. Lunch will be served at 12:30 p.m. and Dittman will speak at 1:00 p.m. Come and listen to how she discovered the Messiah’s faithfulness in the midst of the Holocaust. Please RSVP to 763-753-2273.

Nowthen Alliance PrimeTime welcomes Doug Ohman Helen Peterson Nowthen Alliance Church

Award-winning photographer, author, storyteller and popular public speaker Doug Ohman will speak at Nowthen Alliance Church’s PrimeTime event on Thursday, January 15 at 1:00 p.m. His work has been widely published in books, calendars and numerous state and national magazines. Over the past seven years, Ohman has been working with the Minnesota Historical Society on the popular book series, Minnesota Byways, which includes Ohman’s exquisite photographs coupled with texts by some of Minnesota’s finest authors on the state’s vanishing historic sites— churches, barns, courthouses, schoolhouses, cabins and libraries. Ohman was born and raised in Anoka and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in history and geography. Before turning to fulltime photography, he worked as the director of operations at the Mall of America’s Camp Snoopy. He now makes a living through landscape and historical photography, traveling thousands of miles each year

Doug Ohman Pioneer Photography

to document his subjects, while at the same time making regular stops at more than 30 art fairs and festivals around the state. Ohman will share photographs, stories and interesting historical information about some of Minnesota’s most treasured

buildings and locations. He will also tell his own story on how he transformed his passion for history and love of photography into a successful career. His Minnesota Byways book series includes: Living The Dream Historic Homes of Minnesota, Churches of Minnesota, Courthouses of Minnesota, Schoolhouses of Minnesota, Cabins of Minnesota and Libraries of Minnesota. Refreshment and fellowship will follow the presentation which is free and open to the community. PrimeTime is held in the Koinonia Kafe at Nowthen Alliance Church, 19653 Nowthen Boulevard NW at the intersection of Anoka County Roads 22 and 5 in Nowthen. Contact the church office at 763-441-1600 or Helen at 763753-1267 for more information.

Question What do you suggest I do to keep my dog’s paws warm and protected this winter from the sand/salt and ice? Answer One way to avoid getting sidewalk salt on your dog’s feet is by having them wear dog boots. Many dogs will be reluctant to walk in them initially, but given time will adjust well to wearing the boots. If boots are not an option, inspect the bottom of your dog’s feet and between their toes as needed and wash them with a pet shampoo if there is accumulated sand or salt. Ice or a hard, crusty cover on the snow can be sharp enough to cut dogs’ pads or skin. Again, boots can help. Check for cuts or abrasions after your dog has played in the snow. Wash injured skin with soap and water. Stitches usually aren’t needed but see your veterinarian if you find a cut that goes all the way through the skin thickness. Dogs with long nails may get a nail caught on the edge of an ice patch and actually tear a nail. Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed short will help avoid this problem. Ice can certainly be a slipping hazard for dogs just as for people. Watch for patches of ice and try to avoid having your dog run on or across ice to avoid leg injuries. Finally, dogs can also get frostbite just like people; avoid long walks on frigid days and watch for your dog holding up one foot at a time while outside, an indication of cold feet. File Photo

3220 Bridge Street, Suite 107 in the St. Francis Mall

Call

763-753-1277 for an Appointment

Reflections

Kendall W. Goodian, D.C.

on a year gone by.

Chiropractic Orthopedist

Specializing in Sports, Industrial and Auto Accident Injuries

6/12

Births Joseph Allen Teale was born on November 22 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces and was 19 inches long. Proud parents are Autumn and Paul Teale of Cambridge. Joseph is welcomed by sister, Violet. Liam Gordon Johnson was born on November 25 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parents are Kenneth and Aerial Johnson of Isanti. Liam is welcomed by siblings Wyatte and Makayla.

PAGE 32

Holocaust survivor Anita Dittman and author of Trapped in Hitler’s Hell will speak Saturday, January 24 at 1:00 p.m. Lunch 12:30 p.m. This is a free event. All are welcome. Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. • 6th grade-adult Sunday School at 10:30 a.m. • 5th grade and under

Worship at 10:30 a.m.

St. Francis United Methodist Church

The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

A Community Dedicated to Seeking Christ and Serving Others

Pastor Kevin Coder 3914 - 229th Avenue • St. Francis www.stfrancis-umc.com • 763-753-2273

This has been a difficult year for some... a merciful year for others. We ask you to join us in expressing our sympathies to the families we have served during the past twelve months. May the coming year be a blessed one for you and your family. Isanti Chapel 763.444.5212 409 SE Broadway, Isanti, MN Cambridge Chapel 763.689.2070 720 1st Avenue East, Cambridge, MN

Meetings, Benefits & Events Geoff Akason benefit

AA/NA AA/NA Meetings at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in East Bethel. NA on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., AA on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., NA on Fridays at 6:30 p.m.

Debra Akason

Business

Mother

Geoff Akason Benefit, Saturday January 10, 3:00-11:00 p.m., St. Francis American Legion, 3073 Bridge Street NW. Geoff had a serious racing accident on October 17 at Ogilvie Speedway, sustaining multiple injuries including five broken vertebrae. Proceeds raised will help pay for mounting medical and living expenses. A spaghetti dinner, silent auction, bake sale, kids games and music are being planned. Donations will be accepted at any TCF location to Geoff Akason Benefit Account or by PayPal to akasonbenefit@gmail.com.

Edward Jones Coffee Club meets the second Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. at Bridge Street Coffee Box and Sweet Shoppe, 22973 Rum River Blvd. in St. Francis.

American Legion American Legion Auxiliary Unit 622 – St. Francis General membership meets monthly on the third Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. All members of the auxiliary are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.

School District ISD 15 SCHOOL Board Meetings: January 12 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Organizational Meeting 7:00 p.m., January 29 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. at Central Services Center, Community Room, 4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St. Francis.

SFHS All Night Party 2015 St. Francis High School Senior All Night Party will be held at Blainbrook in Blaine after graduation on Friday, May 29. Parents and community members are encouraged to volunteer. Contact Michelle Wenker, volunteer coordinator, at wmichellejim@aol.com for more info. Monthly meetings are scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at the Oak Roads Grille & Bar in Oak Grove. Dates are: January 8, February 5, March 5, April 2; May dates are yet to be determined.

Chamber of Commerce St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast with the Chamber is January 14 at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in St. Francis, 8:00-9:00 a.m., $3 for breakfast. The next Board of Directors meeting is January 21, 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street. Meetings are open to all. Visit stfrancischamber.org for more info or call 763-438-5163.

AA AA Meets at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m.

Lions

American Legion Post 622 – St. Francis General membership meets monthly the second Thursday at 7:00 p.m. All members of the post are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.

Health & Fitness Tops Chapter MN #1774 meets every Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m. at the St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street N. TOPS stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly and is a weight loss support group. Check out a meeting or visit www.tops.org. Long Lake Lutheran Church invites you to join us for GriefShare Wednesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. Free. We are located five miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47. For more information please contact Sharon Sudeith at 763-444-4483, or you can go to: www.longlakeluth.org. For more information on the GriefShare program in general at www.griefshare.org.

Lions Oak Grove Lions meet every second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. adjourning at 8:00. For more information, call Lion Mark Silvernagel at 763-753-2215. NOWTHEN LIONS CLUB Are you looking to serve in your community of Nowthen? Meet new friends? Have a lot of fun? Come join the Nowthen Lions Club! The Nowthen Lions meet on the first Thursday of the month for the board meeting and on the third Thursday of the month for the membership meeting. Please call Patty Wirz at 763-241-1341 or email at nowthenlions@yahoo.com.

Seniors

CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONS CLUB meets bimonthly, first and third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., at the Hunters Inn. Call Ruth Larson at 763-434-9423. St. Francis Lions Club meets three times during the month at the St. Francis American Legion. First Wednesday board meeting; second Wednesday regular business meeting; fourth Wednesday social and program. All meetings start at 7:00 p.m. and adjourn at 8:15 p.m. Call Lion Kevin Schuldt for more information at 763753-1205 or visit www.stfrancismn. lionwap.org.

Lioness CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONESS CLUB meets the first Thursday of the month at the 6:00 p.m. Ham Lake VFW. For membership information call Marilyn Kappelhoff, 763-434-6599. We Serve! St. Francis Lioness Club meets monthly. First Wednesday, administrative board and third Wednesday, general membership meeting at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are held at St. Francis City Hall, 23340 Cree Street. For more information, call Jean Schuldt at 763-753-1205 or Mary Madden at 763-444-5020.

Service Group St. Francis Area Women of Today meet the first Tuesday of the month at the Anoka Hennepin Credit Union, 23280 St. Francis Blvd. NW in St. Francis. Social time is 6:30 p.m. with the meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Women of Today, visit us at www.sfawt.org or call Dana at 763-753-5010.

Seniors St. Francis Seniors If you are 55 or older, come enjoy some companionship. We play cards and bingo, go on trips, have picnics and potlucks. We meet the first and third Thursday of each month at the St. Francis Legion. Social time at noon, meeting at 1:00 p.m., games until 3:00. Some play Scrabble in the afternoon on the third Friday and Cribbage on the fourth Friday. Come check us out or call President Ray Steinke at 763-753-1871. Oak Grove Seniors meet the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at noon for a potluck and a short business meeting. Bingo follows each business meeting. For information about the club and events, call Marion Schulz at 763-444-5652.

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East Bethel Seniors Have fun dancing with us! Dances are held 1:00-4:00 p.m. Old time music will be played by Jim Armstrong on Friday, January 2. Tony Jambor will be the musical guest on February 6. The cost is $5 and includes lunch. All are welcome to the East Bethel Seniors Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, January 11, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Serving pancakes, French toast, sausage, juice, coffee and scrambled eggs, 50¢ per additional egg. Cost for breakfast is $5 for adults and $2 for children under 10. Seniors meet the third Thursday of each month for business meeting and catered noon lunch, 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.; second Wednesday of each month is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon w/potluck at noon; fourth Wednesday is crafts only, 9:00 a.m.noon. Cribbage once a month, call Barb for date/time 763-434-6179. We also go on tours, etc. The East Bethel Senior Center is available for rent, call Dennis 763-434-9244. Are you 55 or older, bring your spouse and come and enjoy some companionship. All are welcome. Join East Bethel Seniors for $7 a year and receive a monthly newsletter. The East Bethel Senior Center located one mile east of Highway 65 on 221st Avenue in East Bethel.

Recreation & Hobby A new neighborhood group of the American Sewing Guild is meeting the second Tuesday of the month, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in East Bethel. Come share sewing successes, challenges and ideas. The American Sewing Guild is a non-profit organization that promotes home sewing. For more information, go to ASG.org or contact Julie at 763-4349143 or jmaurer.3962214@gmail.com.

City & Township Andover City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 1685 Crosstown Blvd. NW, Andover, 763-755-5100 Bethel City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Thursday 7:00 p.m., 23820 Dewey Street, Bethel, 763-434-4366 Nowthen City Council—Meets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 19800 Nowthen Blvd. NW, Nowthen, 763-441-1347 East Bethel City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday 7:30 p.m., 2241 221st Ave. NE, East Bethel, 763-367-7840 Oak Grove City Council—Meets 2nd & last Monday 7:00 p.m., 19900 Nightingale St. NW, Oak Grove, 763-404-7000 St. Francis City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Monday 6:00 p.m., ISD 15 Central Services Center, St. Francis, 763-753-2630 Stanford Township Board—Meets 1st Monday, 7:00 p.m., 5050 261st Avenue NW, Isanti, 763-444-6370 The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis Lioness and Lion’s Breakfast with Santa

Tony Jambor, a musician from Bethel, proudly displayed his award at the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame Ceremony. Jambor was inducted on November 7. Many family members, friends and supporters joined him in Northfield for this tribute. Submitted Photo

Marolyn Baumann St. Francis Lioness

The St. Francis Lioness celebrated their 40th year of serving the St. Francis community with Breakfast with Santa. It started 40 years ago when our community had very little for families to do together. As Lioness president, I used to take my children to Breakfast with Santa at Dayton’s, which is now Macy’s. We developed this idea into our first project for the Lioness Club. Back then Breakfast with Santa was held at St. Francis Elementary School and later moved to St. Francis American Legion, Post 622. The event grew bigger each year and as the years went on, we also received help from the Lions Club and the St. Francis Ambassador Royalty. Their help is needed and greatly appreciated. The Lions presented $1,000 to the ambassadors at the breakfast for their scholarship fund. The Lionesses and Lions love providing this event so Santa can meet the children and adults and we want to thank them all for coming. A big thank you goes to SFES students in the 1st grade classes of Janine Johnson, Joan Copa, Laura Hogue, Angie Hylen, Debra Todd and Kelsey Serbus. Their artwork made the room truly festive.

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Doctors on staff Dr. Tracey Thomas Dr. Jill Hergenrader Dr. Kelly Pawlenty Dr. Nicole Perreault

The Lioness and Lions Clubs are looking for new members of all ages. The Lions meet at the St. Francis American Legion Post 622 on the first, second and fourth Wednesdays at 7:00-8:15 p.m. The Lioness meet at St. Francis City Hall Community Room on the first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Come join us and have fun while serving your community.

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The St. Francis Lioness and Lions love putting on the Breakfast with Santa event for our community and we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. Submitted Photo

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New opera company to feature local female singers Carmelita Guse noticed that there were many more women

Taylor Van Denburgh Garden of song

ELCA

Our Saviour’s

Lutheran Church & Preschool

Make a Great Start in 2015 Worship With Us

Sunday Services at 8:00, 9:15 &10:45 a.m. Wednesday Power Up Services at 6:30 p.m. – Dinner at 5:00 p.m.

Red Cross Blood Drive Tuesday, January 13 • 1:00-7:00 p.m. 19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel West County Road 22 south on Jackson Street For information call 763-434-6117, visit www.oursaviourslc.org —or— email to oslc@oursaviourslc.org

2014 Goal 682

than men at auditions. She decided to make a way for women singers to have more opportunities to perform by founding Garden of Song Opera. The mission of the company is to give female opera singers who are at the beginning of their career more performance opportunities. To accomplish this, Garden of Song Opera aims to perform programs that feature female singers. Garden of Song will perform at different venues throughout the Twin Cities. Interested in auditioning for Garden of Song Opera? Look for audition notices on YAP Tracker, Minnesota Playlist and Auditions Plus through Classical Singer Magazine website. Auditions and concert information will also be posted on the company’s website at gardenofsongopera.com and on their Facebook page.

Tons

110 Tons

Recycled in November St. Francis has recycled 507 tons in 2014 so far. Recycling is now easier with simple sort recycling. You no longer need to sort items. Just place them all in the large roll-off container provided by your hauler. If you have any questions about what is acceptable or would like to start a new service, call your hauler: Ace Solid Waste 763-427-3110 Allied Waste 763-784-2104 East Central Sanitation 763-689-2171 LePage & Sons 763-757-7100

Wedding

Tyler Anderson, son of Nick and Carmen Anderson and Paige Gardas, daughter of Jeff and Lisa Gardas, were married August 2. Tyler and Paige are 2011 graduates of St. Francis High School. The couple lives in Fargo, North Dakota where they both attend North Dakota State Submitted Photo University.

Faith Listings Abundant Life Alliance Church 3840 197th Avenue NW Oak Grove • 763-753-0284 www.AbundantLife4U.org Bethel Community Church 23860 Dewey Street NW Bethel • 763-434-9834 www.bethelschurch.org Cedar United Methodist Church 17541 Jefferson Street NE Ham Lake • 763-434-7463 www.cedarumc.org Cross of Hope Lutheran Church 5730-179th Lane NW Ramsey • 763-753-2057 www.crossofhope.net

First Baptist Church & Christian School K–12 22940 St. Francis Boulevard St. Francis • 763-753-1230 www.fbcsaintfrancis.com Living Hope Evangelical Free Church 23038 Rum River Boulevard St. Francis • 763-753-1718 www.LivingHopeEFC.org Long Lake Lutheran Church 3921 277th Avenue NW Isanti • 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.org New Life Church 17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW Ramsey • 763-421-0166 www.newlifemn.org

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Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel • 763-434-6117 www.oursaviourslc.org St. Francis United Methodist Church 3914 229th Avenue NW St. Francis • 763-753-2273 www.stfrancis-umc.com St. Patrick Catholic Church 19921 Nightingale Street NW Oak Grove • 763-753-2011 www.st-patricks.org The Bridge Church 6443 Norris Lake Road Nowthen • 763-516-5995 Services 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. West Bethel United Methodist Church 1233 221st Avenue NE Cedar • 763-434-6451

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Master Gardener

Carol bray Isanti county master gardener

‘P’ for plant people One thing I realized quite some time ago is that every gardener I know is not a procrastinator. For gardeners that live (and are blessed to live) in our part of the country with its four seasons, they cannot be serious procrastinators. As the saying goes, “Timing is everything.” We need to start seeds at appropriate times by checking seed packets and counting backward to the expected no frost day in spring. We must plant, prune, water, divide, deadhead, weed (I know, I

know… some procrastinating occurs with weeding) when the need or time is right. We need to pick and preserve fruit and vegetables when they are ripe. Planning Every gardener does some planning. Some garden plans take months to develop, some days or hours, but every garden has at least a loose-knit plan. Preparation We tend to grumble about our soil type—very few of us have great well-drained soil. Most people in our area have

My plan is to have something interesting in this garden to look at when there is no foliage. The windmill is not visible in the summer months. Photo by Carol Bray

sandy soil, which requires constant watering. I live on a vein of clay. Clay is not good soil because the air pockets are minimal and it does not drain well. In my better and more productive gardens, I dug out 18 inches of clay and replaced the clay with good soil before any planting was done; a backbreaking task, but worth it in the long run. Patience If you want to learn patience, consider gardening as a hobby. For most trees and especially shrubs, you must wait three years before the plant looks good; thus the saying, “Sleep, creep and leap.” Perseverance Every gardener I know has planted a plant (or quite a few plants) that died or didn’t perform like it was supposed to perform. This performancefailure happens. You just need to get over it and take the opportunity to try something else. For more information, visit Isanti County Master Gardeners website at www. isanticountymastergardeners. com, the University of Minnesota Extension website at www.extension.umn.edu or

call the Isanti County Master Gardeners at 763-689 8254. You can also find us on Facebook at Isanti County Master Gardeners.

Save the date of Saturday, March 21 for the Isanti County Master Gardeners horticulture day, Burst into Spring!

A Wedding to Remember

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Sunday Services

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Across from St. Francis High School in the St. Francis Mall

763-753-9720 Store HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m. • Sunday 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

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Crafts, novelty, hardware, beauty, toys, wedding, latex balloons and much, much more! The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis Middle School Knowledge Bowl season in full swing

St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to its Annual Dinner

Ted Gehring

Get your friends together for a hilarious night out!

Interactive ComedySportz Improv Show and Dinner Friday, January 30 The Refuge Golf Club Oak Grove 6:00 7:00 7:45 9:00

Wear your favorite sports team jersey!

p.m. Social Hour p.m. Dinner p.m. ComedySportz p.m. Raffle

SFMS Social Studies Department, Knowledge Bowl Adviser

This year the St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) is fielding its largest Knowledge Bowl team since the program’s inception three years ago with nearly 50 students and eight teams. We appreciated the donated $700 that the St. Francis Lions and School Board Chair David Roberts got together to help grow and support our program. At our preseason meet, our team competed at Lake Harriet Upper School’s “Disco Bowl” tournament on November 13, taking home a number of honors. The Killer Party Ponies set a new SFMS Knowledge Bowl record scoring an amazing 24 points in an oral round, won both best team costume and placed 8th overall. Michael DeRoy, of team Airheads, won best individual costume as well. In the weeks to come our program will be having our Inaugural Parent vs. Student Celebrity Tournament/Family Night on December 19. Our Knowledge Bowl team have invited a list of over 50 international celebrities from across the nation that include teen sensation One Direction, Minnesota rock legend Prince, Hunger Games cast members Jennifer Lawrence and Liam Hemsworth, Minnesota’s newest Twin Torii Hunter and sports mascots Goldy the Gopher, T.C., Prowl and Crunch. Local celebrities include SFHS Knowledge Bowl Team, ISD 15 School Board members, Interim Superintendant Troy Ferguson, St. Francis Lions and East Bethel Royalty, mayors from East Bethel, Ham Lake, Oak Grove and St. Francis. On January 1 our Knowledge Bowl Team will be hosting our Inaugural Hula Knowledge Bowl Tournament. All proceeds from this event will be used to grow our program. Middle school teams from across the state have been invited. If you are interested in volunteering your time, we would love to have you join us and help make this event a success. Please contact SFMS at 763-213-8531 if interested and ask for Ted Gehring.

Tickets are $50* per person and includes dinner and the ComedySportz Show Reserve your seats today: www.stfrancischamber.org chamber@stfrancischamber.org or call 763-438-5163 R.S.V.P. by January 26

5 Off Express Gasolines ¢

Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store. Expires 1/31/15 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.

5 Off Express Gasolines ¢

Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store. Expires 1/31/15 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.

Expires 1/31/15 X1001 Expires 1/31/15 X1001

* A portion of the proceeds will go to the St. Francis Pioneer Days Fund.

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Knowledge Bowl adviser Ted Gehring reads questions to teams as SFMS Killer Party Ponies compete at the preseason Disco Bowl tournament. Submitted Photo Check out our Discount Cards Car wash pre-paid cards make perfect gifts for friends, gift exchanges, birthdays and more!

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www.kingscountymarket.com 23122 St. Francis Boulevard NW St. Francis 763-753-3334 Open Seven Days A Week Monday-Saturday 5:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Sunday 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. The Courier | January 2015 | www.the-courier.org