The Courier - March 2014 by St. Francis Area Schools

Daylight Saving Time Begins March 9

The Courier

www.the-courier.org

a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education | St. Francis, Minnesota

March 2014 | Volume 21, Issue 8

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School lunch programs recently in the spotlight Kathleen Miller Staff Writer

School lunch programs and how school districts handle student accounts with a negative balance recently took the spotlight in the news. A report by the advocacy project, Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, was published February 10, sparking many conversations. The report revealed that 46 Minnesota school districts have policies that deny students access to a nutritious lunch, if those students do not have sufficient funds to pay for their meal. Since the report came out, Governor Mark Dayton proposed providing additional funding in the upcoming legislative session to ensure that every child has access to a nutritious lunch in Minnesota schools. Additionally, Minnesota Commissioner of Education Brenda Cassellius reached out to all Minnesota school districts, urging them to take whatever actions necessary to ensure that all Minnesota children have access to a healthy, nutritious lunch. Independent School

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District 15 (ISD 15) provided incomplete information when surveyed by Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid and was then incorrectly listed among other school districts that refuse to serve lunch to students who qualify for reduced price meals and cannot afford the 40 cent meal payment. “ISD 15 has always provided hot lunch to students that qualify for Educational Benefits (free/reduced price meals),”said Nutrition Services Program Supervisor Wendy Klobe. She added that students receiving free/reduced meals are never denied lunch if they cannot pay the 40 cents per meal fee. “If a student is identified as being from a family in economic distress, we realize they have difficult choices and do not want to give them any further strain if they cannot come up with their portion.” Ten percent of ISD 15 students qualify for reduced lunch. Students receiving Educational Benefits are also offered free breakfast each day, through state funding. These recent conversations have had a positive outcome

You would be hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t know why we fought the American Revolution, but have you ever thought of it from the viewpoint of King George III sitting on his throne on the other side of the pond? Cassie Schmoll’s fifth graders have been studying the American Revolution and while digging deeper into the different events and lives of those involved, the question arose, ”How do people in Britain feel about the American Revolution?” While the British viewpoint is limited in the textbook, some of Schmoll’s students have taken it upon themselves to write a letter to Queen Elizabeth II and respectfully ask how her country views the American Revolution and how the history of the war is taught in England. Cassie Schmoll, EBCS Community Relations Coordinator in ISD 15. Current practices were reviewed and one adjustment has been made. Effective immediately, Interim Superintendent Troy Ferguson has stated that no student will be denied a school lunch. “The ISD 15 School Board, along with school administrators, will be working on developing a school board policy regarding school meals and payment procedures,” said Ferguson. Nutrition Services practices in ISD 15 have been very proactive for students who are expected to pay full price for their lunch. A lunch for a high school and middle school students is $2.40 and $2.20

for students in kindergarten through grade 5. When a student’s account balance has enough money to pay for three lunches or less, a verbal reminder is given and a smiley face hand stamp is offered. Written notices are sent home in backpacks of elementary students and the district’s automated SchoolReach calling system contacts parents/ guardians when balances fall below $5. Past practices were that once an account showed a negative balance and the charging limits had been reached, a student would be told of the availability of an alternative/ courtesy meal (fruit/vegetable

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and milk) provided free of charge. After providing the courtesy meal for two days, the cashier would notify the school social worker/counselor/ principal to contact the family and review with them their responsibility to provide meals for their child. If an emergency situation was discovered, a deposit was made into the student’s account from the Angel Fund (emergency funding from Anoka County) for a reasonable time period so the student continued getting meals. According to Klobe, a very small number of households, Continued Page 22

March What’s Inside Schools in Action..........................................2 School Board Highlights......................... 10 Community Education............................ 12 Community & Business........................... 15 Sports & Outdoors.................................... 26 Life.................................................................. 29 Classified....................................................... 33

Schools in Action

School Board Highlights Community Education

Mark Petersen

Two Education Minnesota St. Francis Local #1977 members were selected by Education Minnesota officers to attend national leadership summit January 17-19. In a delegation of 55 members from Minnesota, Education Minnesota members took personal time to attend the West Regional Leadership Summit for the National Education Association (NEA). Ryan Fiereck and Mark Petersen of Independent School District 15 joined more than 850 NEA affiliated members in Las Vegas, Nevada, for a full weekend of intensive leadership training. Topics consisted of leadership competencies, leading change, leadership practices inventories, race of relevance and

PAGE 12

Superintendent, director on paid administrative leave

Teachers attend national leadership summit Education Minnesota St. Francis Local #1977

PAGE 10

many others. In returning from the summit, Fiereck stated, “The core competencies presented to NEA members are vital to making sure our students have the best opportunities for learning. The weekend was packed working, talking and action planning how we, all educators (EAs, food service, Mark Petersen and Ryan Fiereck, ISD 15 teachers and teachers, custodians, representatives of St. Francis Local #1977, recently bus drivers, office attended a national leadership conference in Las professionals, Vegas, Nevada. Submitted Photo administrators) can help to improve our classrooms, on behalf of our with some new concepts to help students. Mark and I left the summit drive the vision of our profession.”

David Roberts ISD 15 School Board Chairman

Many have asked questions about the employment status of Mr. [Ed] Saxton (ISD 15 Superintendent) and Mr. [David] Lindberg (ISD 15 Human Resources Director). Due to Minnesota privacy laws, at this time we are only able to offer that these employees are on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation. We thank you for respecting the process that we must go through to protect the privacy of these individuals. I would expect that this situation will be treated with the same dignity and respect as if it were any other employee.

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Adrenaline Show Choir of St. Francis Middle School, led by choir director Sandra Manglos, performed at ”Swingin’ on the River 2014” at Hastings High School on February 22. Jessica Rowles SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

School/community members needed exhibits, demonstrations and dance. We need people from all ethnic backgrounds to participate by sharing your art, crafts, dance, food, music, historical knowledge of traditions and customs. If you are interested in participating or have questions, please contact Carline Sargent at 763213-1575, or email carline.sargent@isd15.org.

Carline Sargent ISD 15 Multicultural/Diversity Liaison

The ISD 15 Multicultural Diversity Program is organizing the district’s first Multicultural Festival on Saturday, May 3. The festival will offer the opportunity to enrich our community by bringing people together to celebrate, share traditions and customs through food, music, art,

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Kindergartners celebrate Pirate Day Angie Hylen SFES Community Relations Coordinator

Kindergarten students at St. Francis Elementary School beat mid-winter blues by participating in a fun, integrated thematic unit about

pirates and mapping. Students enjoyed stories, songs and art projects about pirates. The pirate theme provided a creative and authentic way in which to teach the state standard on mapping. The six kindergarten classes at SFES enjoyed different activities as

they learned about making and reading maps. Students made small maps on paper, large maps on the floor or the wall and even edible maps on graham crackers. All six classes collaborated to construct a large, 3-D model of a community on the stage in

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the gymnasium. Each student contributed a 3-D structure of a different building in the community. The impressive kindergarten city was on display during the recent book fair and parent/teacher conferences. The unit culminated with the highly anticipated event, Pirate Day! The vast majority of students and teachers spent the

day adorned with eye patches, scarves and other ”piratey” attire. Throughout the day, kindergarten students were seen embarking on a pirate obstacle course in the gym or following a map around the school to find the hidden treasure. A friendlier, more attractive group of pirates has never been seen!

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Kindergarten students in Lisa Prowizor and Briana Anderson’s classes posed in pirate garb before embarking on a treasure hunt throughout the school. Say ”arrrrrrr” mateys! Anderson’s class is pictured with substitute teacher Susan Brand. Submitted Photo

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Talking math with your kids is key to raising overall math achievement Megan Schmidt SFHS Mathematics Peer Leader

If we’re being completely honest with ourselves, we’ve all uttered these words to our kids: ”I was never good at (insert academic subject here), so it’s okay if you aren’t either.” For me, it was reading. I avoided anything that had to do with reading since college and feared the same fate for my daughter when she was born. For most Americans, the subject that causes the most problems in adolescence is math. And we are more than happy to share our discontent with our children. Fortunately, new scientific research about the brain strongly suggests that math ability is not genetic and can be improved over time. In other words, those who thought previously that they just “weren’t a math person” can become one. Additionally, this research also states that proclaiming your detest for math to your kids can be very damaging to their potential and achievement in that area. (Dweck 2006) So what are parents to do in order to help their children develop a positive experience with math, even if they weren’t very good at it when they were

in school? Here are some suggestions: Counting At our house, we count out everything. Sometimes I count, sometimes my daughter counts and sometimes we count together. Crackers, Legos, fruit snacks, crayons. Then, kids can start doing more sophisticated calculations like, ‘I had five crackers and I ate two. How many crackers are left?” Of course, this game can get as complicated as you need. Patterns My daughter and I are always looking for patterns—color patterns, number patterns, patterns in shapes, patterns of sizes of objects. We even sometimes create our own patterns. Legos are great for these, but beads, buttons or blocks work fine too. Estimating In addition to adding this skill to the daily routine in my classroom, this practice also benefits us at home. Estimating can be done with just about anything. All you need is a little curiosity and some creativity. For example, estimate how many animal crackers come in the family size bag before you dig into them. Look on the

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package or count them out to find out how close you got. Estimate how long it will take you to get from home to practice. Let everyone in the car make a guess and see who is the closest. Estimate how tall a stuffed animal is and then measure with a measuring tape. Modeling Kids often will do what we do, good or bad. By modeling a curiosity in numbers and quantities, children will more likely show an interest in those areas as well. By setting a good example of treating mathematics as an important part of everyday life, we show children that math is not only useful, but accessible to everyone.

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Independent School District 15

American Indian Parent Committee Meeting Tuesday, March 4 5:00 p.m. St. Francis High School Room 215 3325 Bridge Street St. Francis Independent School District 15

Community Multicultural/ Diversity Meeting Tuesday, March 18 5:00 p.m. St. Francis High School Room 215 3325 Bridge Street St. Francis

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St. Francis Elementary School

School participates in Jump Rope for Heart Angie Hylen SFES Community Relations Coordinator

For many years, St. Francis Elementary School has participated in a school-wide effort to benefit the American Heart Association. The school has taken a multi-pronged approach to promote heart healthy habits and to help those who suffer from heart defects or conditions. To kick off the annual Jump

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Rope for Heart fundraiser, students gathered in the gym to watch the Heart Racers, a jump rope team from Brooklyn Park. The team, comprised of 5th and 6th grade girls, dazzled the audience with a series of jump rope tricks to upbeat music. Team members rapidly swung one or two ropes while a varying number of jumpers skipped, jumped and twirled through them. The team meets in the mornings before school, under the supervision of two teacher

coaches, to practice their high energy routines. St. Francis Elementary School students will participate in Jump Rope for Heart during their physical education classes. Physical education teacher Stacy Nelson will have rousing music playing as students progress through several different jump rope stations. Students are encouraged to collect pledges online to raise money for the American Heart Association.

Members of the Brooklyn Park Heart Racers performed double dutch jump rope tricks for SFES students to kick off the school’s annual Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser. Submitted Photo

Telephone ��763-753-7031 Fax ��763-753-4693 Advertising ��763-753-7032 Billing ��763-753-7031 Website �� www.the-courier.org Publisher Troy Ferguson ��763-753-7041 troy.ferguson@isd15.org Editor Kathleen Miller ��763-753-7042 kathleen.miller@isd15.org Advertising Sales Janice Audette ��763-753-7032 janice.audette@isd15.org Graphic Designers Pat Johnson ��763-753-7025 pat.johnson@isd15.org Alicia Loehlein ��763-753-7033 alicia.loehlein@isd15.org Billing Alicia Loehlein ��763-753-7033 alicia.loehlein@isd15.org 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 April issue of The Courier is March 7. 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.

Second grade students at SFES could be seen wearing a wide variety of ties after reading the story, Mr. Tanen’s Tie Trouble, from their reading books. Shelly Score’s second graders are pictured above sporting their colorful neckwear. Shelly Score

Addison Spautz, from Jennica Fishero’s kindergarten classroom, celebrates ”Being 100 Days Smarter” on the 100th day of school. Jennica Fishero, SFES Kindergarten teacher

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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

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St. Francis High School

Mykayla Dockter (9th grade) shows her outdoor style during St. Francis High School’s Wilderness Day as part of the school’s Snow Week activities the week of January 27. (Below) Shelby Roering (9th grade) tries to blend into the background of St. Francis High School’s library during Wilderness Days, a dress-up day for the school’s Snow Week festivities. Steve Fetzik,

St. Francis High School 9th graders recently reenacted the Capulet party from Romeo and Juliet. They created masks and danced to music from that time period. (Below) Freshman Austin Snelling shows off the mask he created as part of his Romeo and Juliet lessons in Michelle Keenan’s 9th grade Language Arts class. The students all learned how to ballroom dance, create masks typical of the ones used during the Renaissance Period, as well as learn about one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays.

St. Francis High School juniors Zach Lachinski and Cassie Schultz work on their Probability and Statistics Independent Study class for Megan Schultz. “I’m able to work on my own terms and it’s easier to focus,” commented Lachinski. “It’s more of a one-on-one approach to learning and if you have questions you can go straight to the teacher,” added Schultz. Their independent study ends at the conclusion of the school’s second trimester. Steve Fetzik, SFHS Community Relations Coordinator

Steve Fetzik, SFHS Community Relations Coordinator

SFHS Community Relations Coordinator

James Gunderson (10th grade) and Mackenzie Addison (11th grade) are utilizing online technology to perform a career search as part of the College 7 Career—On the Job Training program at St. Francis High School. Steve Fetzik, SFHS Community Relations Coordinator

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Classroom Education Registration for classroom driver’s education is being accepted for the 2013-14 school year. If you are 15 years of age or approaching 15, you may register to participate in a 30-hour classroom driver’s education course offered during the school day. Fee $110.

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East Bethel Community School

What students think of women’s ski jumping Nancy Zak EBCS 4th Grade Teacher

It is again that time when East Bethel Community School’s finest get to enjoy their lunch with the head eagle herself, Principal Angie Scardigli. Every month, students who have earned eagle feathers for going above and beyond to help promote respect for themselves, each other and their community, have a chance to have lunch with Scardigli. Students from each class in each grade get to enjoy their meal in a comfy chair while chatting about what is important in their world. While it is only a few steps away from the cafeteria itself, the smiles on their faces make it feel like they just walked into The Plaza in New York City. Cassie Schmoll, EBCS Community Relations Coordinator

East Bethel Community School recently held its first Bingo and Baskets night. Shouts of bingo and laughter filled the gym, while the cafeteria was bustling with people checking their favorite baskets to make sure no one had outbid them and for good reason; baskets this year ranged from chocolate and candy lovers to family movie night and handmade cuddle critters by Judy Carda’s fifth graders to the big ticket item an iPad mini. When all was said and done the baskets raised $2,611 for East Bethel Community School. A big thank you to student council members who ran the coat check and to all the families and friends that braved the cold for a fun night of Bingo and Baskets. Cassie Schmoll, EBCS Community Relations Coordinator

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Ski jumping is no longer only for men in the Olympics. In 2014 women will be allowed to compete for the gold. After reading about this sport, fourth graders reflected on the history of not allowing women to compete. This is how some feel about it. Taryn Brawthen 4th Grade EBCS I don’t think that the rule is fair because maybe some girls want to be in ski jumping. To me ski jumping seems like fun so it would not be fair at all. Maybe, if I want to go now, I can because now girls can go ski jumping. I am glad that they changed the rule. If girls want to go ski jumping they can and that is fair. Devon Fisher 4th Grade EBCS I feel women should be allowed to ski jump because they are just as capable as men. I do not think this is fair. Women can compete in ski jumping competitions but not in the Olympics. There are three different areas they can compete in. There are Normal Hill events. There are also large Hill events. Finally there is a team event. If women can not compete in the Olympics they will not be able to get Olympic Bronze,

Silver and Gold medals. If women can never compete we will never know if women are better than men at this sport. Women should be allowed to compete in this sport. They can do just as good as men. Ellie Treiber - 4th Grade EBCS I don’t think it’s fair that women are not aloud to do ski jumping in the winter Olympics because women can ski jump just as good as men. There is an Olympic hopeful named Sarah Hendrickson and she is really good! Also girls can do the four steps to ski jumping. Women can do anything a boy can, like play football or hockey. Girls have just the same amount of rights for sports as a boy. So in my opinion I think it is really unfair. I don’t even know why

they made that rule. If a girl can do big competitions why can’t they do the Winter Ski Jumping Olympics? To me it does not make any sense. Mia Christianson 4th Grade EBCS No, I think that it is very unfair because women can do anything men can do. I think women should be able to because there is a lot of women who are wanting to do this. I also have a question, why can’t girls ski? If they would let girls ski this would be good for the Olympics. I think women should ski because it will hurt their feelings. Girls can do anything guys or men can do, but no one believes that girls can do what men can do, sadly! Anyone can be anything.

To say that the month of January has been a mogul hill of snow days and late starts would be an understatement. Needless to say it has left some of us frazzled…but not the kindergartners in Michelle Roy’s and Leslee Yseth’s kindergarten classrooms. When walking into their rooms one chilly morning, they were welcomed by the soft relaxing music of Michael Werner’s guitar playing. They enjoyed the musical background while preparing for their day and getting a positive start on their morning assignments. It may have been frigid outside, but the temperature in the kindergarten rooms was warm and cozy. Cassie Schmoll EBCS Community Relations Coordinator

Cedar Creek Community School

Ukraine folktales shared with first graders Keri Klein CCCS First Grade Teacher

If you want to hear a good story of Russian/ Ukrainian folklore, Liia Minina is the student to ask. Liia came to the United States and Cedar Creek Community School last spring from Ukraine. Never having been in the United States before, she didn’t know a word of English. Fast forward only 10 months and Liia is reading, writing and using vocabulary above and beyond her grade level. Timid at first, she is now more than willing to share stories of her homeland and of her country’s traditions. First grade students have been reading the story, Let’s Go to the Moon by Stephen R. Swinburne. The story shows pictures and explains space flight, moon walks, space suits, moon rocks and the lunar rover. Liia went home and found a solar system map she brought with her from Ukraine and pointed out the planets telling us their Russian names. The rest of the

Cedar Creek Community School first graders were enthralled with fellow classmate Liia Minina’s explanation of the solar system. Students were also delighted with the Ukrainian folk tales she Submitted Photo shared. class was entranced by her words and accent and were eager to learn more of what Liia knew about the solar system. We found out she is quite an expert! She also told us a folktale she knew about how the constellations of the Big Bear and Little Bear came to be. We are very lucky to have Liia in our class and that she is willing to share about a place we have never been. The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis Middle School

Academic STEM classes study earthquakes, show findings Stretch produces at conferences a trifold display presenting Coral-Lyn Wyman Knowledge Fair their findings which were SFMS 8th grade Earth Science

Paula Jo Davis

SFMS 8th grade Algebra

This year, eighth grade students at St. Francis Middle School completed a STEM project involving earthquakes. During science class, students studied types and locations of earthquakes and answered questions on how to find epicenters, types of earthquake waves and how to build earthquake-safe structures. In industrial technology class, students designed and built earthquake-safe structures that they tested on a shake table, simulating earthquake movement. During their math classes, students tested the lengths and thicknesses of bridges compatible with earthquake zones. Language arts class participated in STEM by working with students to prepare the typed paragraphs and headings for each student’s presentation board. The final result of the STEM project: each student prepared

proudly shown during parent/teacher conferences. Congratulations eighth grade students, on a job well done!

At January’s parent-teacher conference nights, eighth grade students at St. Francis Middle School displayed their STEM projects of designs of earthquake-ready bridges. Jessie Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Jessie Rowles SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Academic Stretch students demonstrated their knowledge on a topic of their choice presented through PowerPoint or poster boards. Students shared their knowledge with staff, parents and other students that attended. Topics varied from digital animation to others such as Justin Timberlake, Robert Pattinson, milk art, why do the seasons change, the pigeon guided bomb and many more. The student experts discussed their topics and answered questions during an hour-long presentation session in the media center on January 29 after school. (Upper Right) Academic Stretch students were able to choose a topic that interested them. They researched the topic and created displays to relate their knowledge. Submitted Photos

Welcome Shannon Moore to the Guidance Office Jessie Rowles SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Shannon Moore comes to the guidance department of St. Francis Middle School with a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from the college of Saint Benedict and a masters in professional school counseling from St. Cloud State University. Moore was a long term substitute counselor at Park High School in Cottage Grove, an intern at Plymouth Middle School and Apollo High School, as well as worked for about two years in residential treatment centers for adolescents with severe emotional and behavioral concerns. Moore got married in September of 2013. “Fall is my favorite time of year, perfect weather,” she commented. In college Moore loved playing soccer as a collegiate athlete at St. Benedicts. She studied abroad in South Africa for about four and a half months, Moore stated, “I enriched my life with their cultures

and volunteered at an AIDShaven orphanage while going to school.” She also danced for 15 years stating, “I really encourage students to try new things and get involved in any activity that they enjoy.” Moore’s current hobbies include being active outside, enjoying weekends at the cabin and reading a good book. Moore quoted, “St. Francis Middle School has been great. The community, students and staff have been so welcoming. I love the energy of the students and have enjoyed getting to know them. I am excited to work with 7th graders as

well as students who may be experiencing chemical health concerns.” The middle school staff readily welcomes her to our community. We are pleased to have more help in the guidance office to meet student needs.

New Book Club organized Jessie Rowles SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

St. Francis Middle School has a new book club. Run by students Audrey Moen and Maria Laudenbach, the club is open to students in grades 6-8 who love to read, explore and discuss new and old books just for pure pleasure. Students can sign up online at www.tinyurl.com/sfmsbookclub. The group is limited to 15 students. The book club advisor is Jacqueline Davis.

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The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Submitted Photo

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School Board Highlights School Board Perspective Barbara Jahnke

I was feeling quite confident about my knowledge of our district when I was sworn in as a new school board member on January 13. Since I’ve been employed by Independent

School Board Highlights

January 27, 2014

Kathleen Miller Staff writer

All board members present. Information regarding the superintendent, human resources director Superintendent Ed Saxton and Human Resources Director David Lindberg were placed on paid administrative leave at a special school board meeting January 21. Lindberg’s leave was made effective as of January 8, the day he was dismissed by the superintendent. The school board also approved the motion to contact legal counsel on behalf of the board when appropriate. Barbara Jahnke, Suzanne Erkel and David Roberts were appointed to consult with three investigative firms suggested by the district’s legal counsel, Rupp, Anderson,

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 Glover, Director 763-221-5341 Amy Kelly, Director 763-744-8458 Betsy Roed, Director 763-434-9570 Email: schoolboard@isd15.org 10

School District 15 for 20 years in the position of school counselor, I understood that we are a community of parents, citizens and employees, dedicated to the education and welfare of our children. However, not fully aware of the depth of that commitment, I’ve now had an opportunity to witness the strong resilience in ISD 15. This unsettled time has revealed a school district with the character to move forward on the important business at hand, although the path to resolution of our concerns is not yet entirely clear. Let us be proud of the good things

we continue to do. During my short school board tenure, I’ve observed that ISD 15 has a willingness to put forth extra effort, time and thought to create a strong, healthy learning environment. Here are a few of our strengths: } Students are being transported to and from school with their safety as the first priority. } Nutritional and health needs of students are continuously being assessed to ensure their well-being. } ISD 15 buildings are clean, safe and maintained. } Teachers and support staff are providing for student

educational needs through ongoing evaluation of the effectiveness of programs and teaching. } Parents, volunteers and community members are involved and supportive with attendance at meetings, participation in school events and suggestions for improvement or compliments for jobs well done. } District level and building administrators are planning with staff for better programming and approaches to teaching, along with managing finances.

} Technology and communication departments are working hard to stay on top of that ever-changing world. } The ISD 15 School Board is actively and carefully seeking answers to the questions and concerns brought to our attention in January. I am pleased to be part of the St. Francis community and school district. Appreciation for the hard work you all do is not expressed as often as it could or should be. Let me take this opportunity to say again, I’m proud to be one of you.

Squires and Waldspurger, P.A. Mary Rice of Fafinski, Mark & Johnson, P.A. was selected to complete an investigation into allegations made against a District employee. Board members discussed budget and timeline, but agreed that a thorough investigation is the most important factor. School Board Chairman David Roberts read a statement at the school board meeting. “Many of you have asked questions about the employment status of Mr. Saxton and Mr. Lindberg. Due to Minnesota privacy laws, at this time we are only able to offer that these employees are on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation. We thank you for respecting the process that we must go through to protect the privacy of these individuals. I would expect that this situation be granted the same dignity and respect as if it were any other employee.”

Responsible Authority Troy Ferguson, interim superintendent, was appointed as the responsible authority for the district as recommended by the cabinet. The motion carried 7-0. Superintendent Report Interim Superintendent Troy Ferguson commented on the willingness and positive approach of cabinet members to make sure the education of students and the business of the school district move forward without interruption during this time. A meeting will be held with staff to discuss the plan to resume negotiations and move the process forward. Negotiation parameters have been discussed by the board and it is a priority of the school board to conclude the negotiation process. The district has not had a strategic plan in place and the cabinet would like to explore options and present a recommendation to the board at a later date. Regarding school delays and closings, many factors are

taken into consideration. So far this school year, ISD 15 has four days canceled and one day with a two-hour late start. The cabinet will meet and make a recommendation to the school board at a later date about making up school days.

Center and with new staff and a new advisory council, more ways to service the community at this location are being explored. Update on NeoPath Health Clinic NeoPath CEO Joe McErlane, along with Jody Burton, NeoPath licensed practical nurse, presented background information and progress of the clinic. Discussions between ISD 15 and NeoPath began summer 2011. The clinic opened March 2012 at the Sandhill Center and later moved to its present location, which is across from St. Francis High School in a retail space. When first opened, the clinic was available one day per week to ISD 15 staff; it is now open two days per week. With over 1600 clinic visits and on-site pharmacy, the clinic has surpassed its utilization and continues to grow, seeing a ten percent increase of new patients. The clinic provides routine physicals, preventative medicine, immunizations, an on-site pharmacy and limited lab work for ISD 15 staff along with a workers compensation component for the district. Superintendent Report Interim Superintendent Troy Ferguson reported that the past few weeks have been very busy. He was pleased to report that negotiations are moving forward at a rapid pace. He expressed his thanks to staff and school board members for helping move the district along in an encouraging and positive direction. Regarding the four canceled school days due to the cold weather, a recommendation

School Board Meeting Schedule School board meetings are held at the Community Room in the Central Services Center located at 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis. Monday, March 10 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.

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School Board Highlights

February 10, 2014 Kathleen Miller Staff writer

Happenings Around the District – Sandhill Center Sandhill Center advisory council members, June Anderson and Juanita ReedBoniface along with instructor Cathy Hagford, provided background information and current offerings. Sandhill Center, formerly Bethel School, offers a variety of activities and classes, many which target the senior population. According to Reed-Boniface, there are 4,000+ seniors in the area and it is important to connect and engage with them. Community Education oversees Sandhill

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The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

School Board was made to the school board to extend second trimester. This is significant from a curriculum standpoint to have each of the three trimesters be as equal to each other as possible. It was suggested to take two days and extend trimester two to March 6. This would allow more days prior to MCA testing. The cabinet also recommends that May 30, June 2 and 3 be make up days for students and that staff report June 4. It was strongly recommended that St. Francis High School graduation remain on May 30. If there are more school closings due to inclement weather, the recommendations made may change. Student Information System update All cabinet members are now involved in the process to select a new student information system (SIS). Specifications on what ISD 15 needs are being gathered. A request for proposal will follow. The district will review five companies and gather input from many ISD 15 staff. The timeline is to make a selection before the end of this school year and move into implementation and training over the course of the summer. It is expected the new SIS be ready for the start of the 201415 school year and within a year, full implementation is met. Human Resources recommendation Associate Director of Business Services Scott Nelson recommended to the school board that the district consider getting outside assistance regarding the Human Resources Department, if needed. Krause Anderson provides this type of assistance and they recommend an assessment be made first. Standards for Success Paul Neubauer, interim director of Curriculum, provided school board members information on Standards for Success, an online customizable teacher and administrator evaluation system. This evaluation software provides a customized platform that would follow state guidelines and ensure a consistency of expectations for ISD 15 staff. The board approved the motion 7-0 to use the Standards for Success product. School Board email A motion was made and

passed 7-0 to assign school board members an email account that is consistent with ISD 15 staff. Assistant Director of Technology Corey Tramm explained that his department could now provide assistance regarding email accounts to school board members. A district-wide initiative to access Google Apps for Education was launched in November 2012. The domain provides a number of tools to ISD 15 students and staff and now school board members will have the same access. When community members email the school board, it is recommended to send to: school.board@ isd15.org; all school board members will received the email. New Police Liaison Officer Interim Superintendent Troy Ferguson offered information to the school board regarding this position. In the past, there were three liaison officers assigned to the school district. Due to budget cuts, there is presently one liaison officer. It is recommended to hire an additional liaison officer as a joint effort between ISD 15 and the St. Francis Police Department in an effort to assist in education and increase crime prevention in the schools. The cost of this position will be shared. The liaison officer will be allowed to travel beyond the city limits of St. Francis to serve all ISD 15 schools and students. The liaison officer would attend school board meetings on occasion to provide information and keep school board members updated. The motion carried 7-0.

Kindergarten: Here I Come! Looking for a short preschool experience for your fall 2014 kindergartner? Or want to add a day to your child’s preschool? Then look no further. Kindergarten: Here I Come! is the answer. Your child will experience a variety of activities especially geared toward children entering kindergarten in the fall. Activities will focus on emergent reading, math skills and social skills with lots of music and art included. We hope to do a field trip to a kindergarten classroom later in the spring. Have fun while learning! No bus transportation is available at this time. Sliding fee for tuition is available based on family size and income. Ages: Children age-eligible for kindergarten in the fall (5 by September 1, 2014) Dates: Wednesdays, March 12 through May 21 (11 weeks) Time: 12:30-3:00 p.m. Location: Lifelong Learning Center Fee: $150 (three payments of $50 in March, April and May) Register: Online at www.isd15.org/ earlychildhood or at the Lifelong Learning Center. If you register online, you will receive a packet of other forms that will need to be completed before registration is complete Deadline: Friday, February 28

Crossroads School & Vocational Center

Student Updates Melissa Peterson, daughter of Tom and Diane Peterson of Nowthen, has earned the distinction of being named to the School of Fine Arts Dean’s List of the 2013 fall semester at the University of MinnesotaDuluth. Peterson is a junior at UMD majoring in graphic design. Dakotah Bullen and Kelsey Gale of St. Francis are listed on the Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota, dean’s list for the fall 2013 semester. Full-time students who have earned at least a 3.5 grade point average for the semester are eligible for the dean’s list.

is involved in debate, jazz band and serves as class representative on the student government association (SGA). Gray is also an assistant speech coach for Moorhead High School. He has served as a freshman orientation leader and enjoyed employment as a variety writer for the school newspaper and for Concordia’s admissions office. In January Gray, son of Rosalie and Tom Gray of Oak Grove, was one of 19 new members inducted into the Concordia College Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa. O∆K nomination, which takes place once or twice a year, is based upon the presence of exemplary character, responsible leadership and service in campus or community life, superior scholarship and genuine fellowship. Emma Nordin of St. Francis was among the more than 4,300 undergraduates who qualified for the fall 2013 Dean’s List at the University of Rhode Island.

Alex Gray

Submitted Photo

Alex Gray, a 2012 graduate of St. Francis High School, attends Concordia College in Moorhead on a full-tuition academic scholarship and is currently a sophomore majoring in social studies education. On campus, Gray

Nathan Fisher of Cedar was named to the Dean’s List at Alexandria Technical & Community College for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or higher fall semester 2013. Jacqueline Currier of St. Francis was named to the Dean’s List at Alexandria Technical & Community College for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or higher fall semester 2013.

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Child Care Center We Have Infant Openings! Now Taking Enrollment Both Locations, All Ages Several students from Crossroads School & Vocational Center took a field trip to Feed My Starving Children in Coon Rapids. The students collaboratively put together mana packs (rice, soy, vitamins and dehydrated vegetables). These meals were sent to the people of the Philippines who were affected by Typhoon Haiyan. Students enjoyed healthy competitions, fun music and a sample of the mana while volunteering. Edie Menges, CSVC Teacher

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

East Bethel

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Community Education

Sports & Outdoors

PAGE 26

New volunteer makes English language learners feel at home people we so loved.” As a resident of Chile Andy loved everything about the culture—the way The last time I wrote for the Chileans prioritized this column, I introduced meaningful conversation you to our wonderful staff of and deep friendships. This volunteers. Now I am proud was often accomplished to announce that we have a over a simple cup of coffee new addition to our volunteer or meal, but showed the family! He is a cheerful and true value about what is talkative man named Andy really important. What DeFelice! Andy loved most about the Andy has a very warm country was the privilege and inviting personality of living there and being with a great sense of humor! immersed in the culture He also has a great sense of and society. kindness for all of our students In 2008 Andy and his especially for our English family moved back to the Language Learners. In fact United States because of a Andy said, ”I know how it Andy DeFelice Submitted Photo job change. Although he feels to be the outsider in still misses his friends and other loved ones in Temuco, he is glad to be in Minnesota. Reflecting back Andy says what he missed most while being away for 20 years was Before and after school childcare not things, but people—family and friends they had here in KC General Information 763-2 13-1616 or 763-213-1641 the U.S. That is because Andy Information and registration for strongly believes that what ms are also available online has value in life is people, not at ww w.communityed15.com things. Lucky for our Adult Basic Kids Connection is a Education (ABE) program comprehensive childcare program Andy and Tabi decided to Melody Panek

ISD 15 Adult Basic Education Coordinator

a country where I couldn’t speak the language and didn’t always understand the nuances of the culture!” That’s because Andy, his wife Tabi and their four children, Felipe, Josiah, Karis and Johnny, spent 20 years as a missionary family in southern Chile. When they first went to South America in 1989 Andy and Tabi did not speak any Spanish at all but had to learn it very quickly because they were totally immersed in it every single day! It was not an easy way to become accustomed to a new language and culture, but Andy said, ”As hard as it was, it opened up the communication lines with the

Kids Connection

for children kindergarten through grade 5. Kids Connection provides children a safe, fun experience and offers families a variety of childcare options. The program is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Hours include before and after school programs and full day programming on nonschool days. The Kids Connection program offers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities that may include arts and crafts projects, language arts, science, mathematics and various indoor and outdoor sports. Kids Connection strives to compliment both the home and school experience of each child. Kids Connection also offers programming during the summer for children entering kindergarten to grade 5 in the fall. Summer Kids Connection allows children to participate in weekly field trips, a variety of theme days and special events. Children can attend anywhere from one day to the entire summer. Kids Connection is a division of ISD 15 Community Education

”immigrate” to the Midwest and live in Oak Grove, even though they are originally from New York and Indiana. They decided on this change of location because Constance Evangelical Church in Andover invited them to be on staff at the church. Andy heard about our ABE classroom through a friend who had been working at another Metro North ABE location. She told Andy, “You have just got to get plugged into volunteering in this wonderful program. This is so you, it’s your heart!” So he decided to give it a try. Although it’s only been a month or so, it seems as if Andy is already at home! Our students and staff love having him here because when he volunteers, he is energetic, helpful and funny. It is wonderful to pair him up with our students who speak Spanish because he is able to help them understand English better by explaining the complexities of our language and culture in the learners’ native tongue. Thank you Andy, for all you do in our classroom and a big welcome to you from our ABE family!

Community Education Contacts

Locations Cedar Creek Community School Site 763-753-7160 for East Bethel Community School and Cedar Creek Community School students St. Francis Elementary School Site 763-213-8674 New ! e Before School Care Tim 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. �� $30/day Other fees Registration fee �� $25/child $45/family (2 or more children) Student care is available now through June 2, 2014. All children must be preregistered.

Troy Ferguson, Director................................................................................. 763-753-7041 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 Alicia Loehlein, Staff Writer, Billing...................................................... 763-753-7033 Janice Audette, Advertising.................................................................... 763-753-7032 Facility Scheduling Nancy Messerschmidt, Program Supervisor................................ 763-213-1589 Family Education & Services....................................................................... 763-753-7170 Nancy Wallace, Program Supervisor 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 Nancy Wallace, Program Supervisor 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 The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

EMPLOYMENT Kids Connection Instructor – or – Kids Connection Lead Instructor Independent School District 15 Community Education is now hiring a morning Kids Connection Instructor and Kids Connection Lead Instructor at St. Francis Elementary School and Cedar Creek Community School. Visit www.isd15.org, view Employment, View our open positions, Community Education Programs: Kids Connection Lead Instructor Kids Connection Instructor The Kids Connection Lead Instructor position is part-time, 2.5 hours per day/200 days per year. $11.00–$13.00 DOQ. Must be 18 years or older to apply. The Kids Connection Instructor position is part-time, 2.5 hours per day/200 days per year. $9.00–$11.00 DOQ. EOE

Are you looking for something to do with your child during this cold weather? Try cooking! Bringing kids into the kitchen can benefit them in a number of ways. Cooking can help young kids learn and practice some basic math concepts and build language skills. And the experience of creating meals with you can help build their self-confidence and lay the foundation for healthy eating habits. Here are some cooking ideas: Build basic skills by counting eggs or pouring water into a measuring cup. Talk about what comes first, second and third or count together as you spoon dough onto a cookie sheet. By reading the recipe together, your child will learn new words while developing good listening skills. Taste new ingredients and talk about what they

like and how healthy food makes a body grow. Help young kids explore with their senses. Invite them to listen to the sound of the mixer, pound dough and watch it rise, smell it baking in the oven and taste the warm bread fresh from the oven. Give your child an opportunity to gain a sense of accomplishment. Serve “Will’s Pizza” or “Ella’s Salad” for dinner tonight. Even if the end results are not exactly what you expected, praise their efforts. Look for a few cooking-related activities that your child can successfully complete independently or with minimum supervision. Start small and keep it fun. Spending time in the kitchen with your kids can foster an interest in food and cooking that will last for a lifetime. Source: Cooking with Preschoolers, http://kidshealth. org/parent/growth/learning/cooking_preschool.html

From the Rec Department

Watch the April Courier for Summer Camps information! Baseball Camp Dates: Times: Dates: Times:

A great big, scary thundercloud monster recently made a visit to the Preschool Place 15 four-year-old preschool classes. Now he really wasn’t that scary because he was in the form of a pinata. The children read the story, Hooray a Pinata by Elisa Kleven and then worked on creating their own monster pinata. Using paper bags, construction paper, paint and streamers, they built a pinata to look like the one in the story. At the end of the week they had the opportunity to smack, whack and crack that pinata open and enjoy all the goodies that came showering down on them. Jenny Dupre, ECFE

Fee:

Sunday, March 15 Grades K–5 8:30–10:30 a.m. Grades 6–9 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Sunday, March 16 Grades K–5 1:30–3:30 p.m. Grade 6–9 3:45–5:45 p.m. 2 days – $30 1 day – $20

Grades: 6–8 Dates: April 10–May 15 Time: 2:30–4:00 p.m.

Spring Volleyball Grades: Dates:

Time: Location:

4–5, 6–8 April 28, May 5,12,19 7:30–8:30 p.m. St. Francis High School

St. Francis Middle School Spring Tennis Grades: 6–8 Dates: Coming soon! Time: 2:30–3:45 p.m.

Contact Diane Guinn, Rec Department Manager for more info 763-213-1823 The Rec Department a division of ISD 15 Community Education

The Sandhill Center is operated under the auspices of Independent School District 15 Community Education. Its purpose is to provide arts and recreation opportunities for the residents served by the school district.

Sandhill Center 23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005

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.

For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program or the Sandhill Center, please call 763-213-1616. The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Middle School Track

T–Ball

Ages: 4–6 Days: Monday/Wednesday Start Date: May 5–June 25 Time: 6:30 p.m. Fee: $60

Softball, Baseball or Coach Pitch

Ages: 6–8 Days: Tuesday/Thursday Start Date: May 6–June 26 Time: 6:30 p.m. Fee: $75

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: 10:40 a.m. Lunch served: 11:00 a.m. Showtime: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost: $13 For reservations, call 763-2131641. Reservations can also be made on the website at www. communityed15.com.

Classic Country Show Tuesday, March 11 Alex Parenteau, originally from Ontario, Canada, now makes his home in Minnesota. Alex has his own style of singing and prefers to sing classic country music. He often listened to the Grand Old Opry show on radio when he was a youngster, dreaming that someday he would be singing on stage. While he never has made it to the Opry, he has entertained throughout Canada from Quebec to Vancouver. He has entertained in the Upper Midwest of the United States for the past 30 years. Larry Rose is a steady guitar player at the Midwest Country Theater in Sandstone and appears every Saturday night on the RFD channel for the Midwest Country Show. 13

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.communityed15.com

Preschool Place 15 Registration for the 2014-15 School Year Register NOW

Join us at ECFE

New sessions beginning NOW! Morning, afternoon and evening classes offered Age specific and Birth to Kindergarten

What is ECFE?

for the best selection of classes

Classes offered at Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove • Programming takes place September through May • Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available • One, two, three or four times per week • Two hour, two hour-fifteen minute, two-and-a-half hour and two hourforty-five minute sessions • Most classes are age specific • Classes also available for two-yearolds and very young three-year-olds • Sliding fee scale is available based on family size and income • Busing available for all full-year morning and afternoon classes

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.

Check out the Learn & Thrive brochure for ECFE parent/child classes for the 2013–14 school year. Call 763–753–7170 or visit us online at www.isd15.org to register.

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

Here is your opportunity to clean out those closets and make some extra cash and support the Early Childhood Programs in your community. Start collecting your items now because garage sale tags are on sale March 6 until they are gone. Tags are available at the Early Childhood office in the Lifelong Learning Center. Each seller must purchase tags from Early Childhood for the low price of $1 per 25 tags, with a max of 100 tags each. Volunteers can shop the sale early, so sign up to volunteer when you are purchasing your tags. The sale is a fundraiser for the Early Childhood Programs. The Advisory Council will keep 15 percent of the total sales. Questions? Call Sara Stream at 651-274-4302 or Jackie Strandberg at 763-753-7218

Early Childhood Advisory Council

20th Annual Children’s Used Clothing & Toy Sale Saturday, April 12 • 9:00 a.m.–noon St. Francis Elementary School

Have a concern about you r ch

ild?

Are you concerned abou t your child’s developme nt, speech or behavior? If your child is under thr ee years of age, contact Kristine Vogtlin at: kristine.vogtlin@isd15.or g or 763-753-7172 to rea ch ISD 15 Help Me Grow services. If your child is at least three years of age and no t yet in kindergarten, ISD 15 Early Childhood Screening is the first ste p in confirming any concerns you have. Call for an appointment at 763-753-7187 and me ntion your concerns.

(ECFE) is: A place for babies A place for toddlers A place for preschoolers A place for all dads, moms and others relatives in a parenting role

Upcoming ECFE Events

Sale Tags Available NOW!

Time to clean out the close ts!

a division of ISD 15 Community Education

Early Family Childhood Education

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

Baby Playtime

If you have a baby or young toddler and a busy, busy schedule, then this is for you! No need to register ahead of time; come to one, some, or all. We’ll prepare the room and a parent educator will be on hand; you come with your baby or young toddler. Spend one hour a week totally focused on your little one and meet other parents. No child care for older children. Date: Wednesdays, Now–April 30 Time: 6:00–7:00 p.m. Fee: FREE

Pop in and Play

Pop in and do activities, meet other families and build relationships. No pre–registration necessary. Fee: $4 per child; max $12 per family limit of 4 children/adult Dates: Fridays, Now–April 11 Time: 9:15–11:15 a.m. March 7: Dinosaurs on the Move March 14: Little Mouse March 21: Pete the Cat March 28: Tiny Tim the Turtle Dates: Tuesdays, Now–April 22 Time: 12:45–3:00 p.m. March 11: Colors of the Rainbow March 18: Shake Your Sillies Out March 25: Wild Animals on the Loose

Children’s Museum Field Trip

Two hours of exploration in six play-filled, hands-on galleries! After a brief orientation, you and your child may explore the museum on your own. Bring a bag lunch which you will eat before getting back on the bus. Fee includes admission and transportation. Date: Friday, March 14 Time: Bus Leaves Lifelong Learning Center at 9:00 a.m.; returns by 2:00 p.m. Fee: $7.50 per person Deadline: March 7

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.

Fun and Games

All kinds of games…board games, group games, gym games! Lots of fun with friends. Date: Tuesdays, March 11 & 18 Time: 12:45–2:45 p.m. Fee: $8 per child

l be a il w o h w d il ch a e v a h u o Do y KindergughaEartrlynCherildhothodisScreefanillng?.

ne thro Be sure they have go t! W for an appointmen e child’s third Call 763-753-7187 NO be done soon after th ld ou sh ng ni ree sc ild’s health and Early childhood check of a young ch ple sim , EE FR a is birthday. Screening rgarten readiness. not determine kinde es do it t; en m lop ve de Screening includes: sessment –a developmental as checks –vision and hearing health review –immunization and

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Community & Business Community groups to host Empty Bowls fundraiser Local Lions and Lioness clubs to sponsor event to raise funds for foodshelf Shana Schmitz North Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf

Approximately seven percent of the population of Anoka County struggles with food insecurity—the limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate food. Every day, the North Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf (NACE) strives to fill that hunger gap and educate our community on ways we can all fight hunger. On Thursday, March 20, the local Lions and Lioness groups will be filling bowls with chili and chicken wild rice soup at our 10th Annual Empty Bowls event. One hundred percent of the proceeds benefit the NACE Foodshelf and every bowl filled symbolizes the fight to end hunger in our community. The 10th Annual Empty Bowls will be held Thursday, March 20, 5:00-7:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 19921 Nightingale Street NW in Oak Grove. The cost is a

free will donation. Come join us for a soup dinner with bars, ice cream and popcorn. Attendees can purchase a handcrafted ceramic bowl made by the Anoka Ramsey Community College Ceramic Guild or the Andover High School Art Club, listen to live music and bid on many wonderful items in the live and silent auctions. All funds raised are included as part of the Minnesota Food Share Campaign and Feinstein Foundation’s $1 Million Giveaway. NACE receives a percentage matching grant from both of these organizations based on donations received during March for the Minnesota Food Share Campaign and March and April for the Feinstein Challenge. In 2013, NACE received close to $5,000 in matching funds. Thank you to the St. Francis Lions and Lioness, Oak Grove Lions, Cedar/East Bethel Lions and Lioness and Ham Lake Lions for sponsoring this important event and providing for those in need in northern Anoka County.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 16th Annual

Fish Fry Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 April 4, 11 4:30-7:00 p.m.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church

Joe Haag Foundation 15

Local Lions and Lioness members will host the Empty Bowls fundraiser March 20 to support the local foodshelf. Submitted Photo

Anniversa ry 50

St. Francis Pioneer Days is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year. The St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce needs the community’s help to make it the best celebration ever.

Participate } Vendors, organizations and crafters — register to have a booth in Community Park.

} Brush up your act for the 2nd Annual St. Francis Has Got Talent Show.

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Sponsored by the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce www.stfrancischamber.org

Volunteer

The Isanti Knights of Columbus will be serving their All You Care To Eat Fish Fry Dinner.

Come join us for fish and fellowship.

Join the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce to help plan and celebrate the St. Francis Pioneer Days 50th Anniversary!

June 6-8, 2014

Corner of County Roads 5 and 23 in Isanti

Cost: Adults $9; Children 6-12 years $5; Children 5 and under FREE

Join Foundation 15 for a night of fun to raise money to support St. Francis High School students by providing scholarships. Luau Night is the theme of the annual fundraising event that will be held Friday, April 25, 6:00 p.m. at The Refuge Golf Club in Oak Grove. Highlights of the luau are silent and live auctions, prizes, great food and fun. Cost is $50 per person. For tickets, call 612-281-3088.

This is your Celebration!

} Plan on entering a unit in the Pioneer Days parade.

On the menu: Alaskan Pollock, potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw, dessert and coffee/milk

Foundation 15 Luau Night April 25

Watch for forms available soon at stfrancismn.org or stfrancischamber.org } Nominate a 50th Anniversary Grand Marshal for the parade at pd.parade@stfrancischamber.org

If you would like to volunteer for an event committee, work during the Pioneer Days weekend, make a cash donation or have a great idea, visit www.stfrancischamber.org and find Pioneer Days, click Volunteer.

Design Button design contest win a $100 Visa Card.* Submit entry by Friday, March 14. Create a Button! Email to: pd.button@ stfrancischamber.org In person or mail to: 23624 St. Francis Blvd., Ste. 5, St. Francis, MN 55070 Questions, call 763-753-6614. *Sponsored by David Johnson, Highland Money Management. Securities offered through Sammons Securities Company LLC. Member FINRA / SIPC. Fee-based investment advisory services offered through Sigma Planning Corporation, a registered investment advisor. Highland Money Management Inc. is independent of Sammons Securities Co. LLC and Sigma Planning Corporation. 15

Oak Grove Fire Department purchases new tanker/pumper water to the scene. The old tanker was capable of drawing water into the tank and could transport 1,800 gallons to a fire scene. However, the truck was not capable to fight a fire. If this truck arrived first to a fire scene, the crew would have to watch as it did not have fighting capability. The new truck has the capability to transport the same amount of water, but can also be used to fight a fire. Improvements were

Curtis Hallermann Oak Grove Fire Chief

The Oak Grove Fire Department has officially closed out 2013. On December 17, 2013 the department took delivery of a new tanker/ pumper. This truck will replace the 21-year-old Tanker 21. The new truck will have many more features than its predecessor. As Oak Grove has few hydrants, all firefighting has to be done by transporting

Hop into the… SANTI AREA 2014 I

The Oak Grove Fire Department took possession of its new tanker/pumper fire truck in December. This truck will not only carry water to fires but be able to also fight them unlike the truck that it is replacing. Submitted Photo

EXPO

Saturday, April 12 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

2 - $100 Prizes

Isanti Intermediate School

Grand Prize $ 500

101 9th Ave NE - Isanti

Free Admission

Please bring a non-perishable food item for the local food shelf.

Cash Drawings

Must be present to win.

Free Expo Bags to the first 250 people.

Food Concessions

12th Annual

Arctic Plunge

Vendors register by Tuesday, March 25 www.isantichamber.com or 763-444-8515.

7:00-9:00 a.m. Registration for Vintage Snowmobile Racing Race begins 10:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. Old Fashioned Ice Cutting by Englund Family

Saturday, March 1

Helicopter rides all day!

1320 County Road 5 NE | Isanti, MN Call for reservations or info at Spectacular Events 763-444-9840 or Captains 763-444-5897

Elvis Experience

Dinner and Show featuring Tommy and Steve Marcio

Saturday, March 8

Dinner at 6:30 p.m. • Performance at 7:30 p.m. Reserve your space now, tickets only $25

Make your best Hotdish Recipe Contest

on Saturday, March 29 for Cash Prizes! Bring in crock pot. Register Noon-1:00 p.m. Judging at 2:00 p.m. Open to the public to enjoy at 3:00 p.m. $5 Call 763-444-5897 for more information. 16

763-444-5897

made so that it can carry more equipment, more air packs and more firefighters. The key feature of this new truck is that it can be used as a working fire truck. Currently, Oak Grove Fire Department has two working fire stations with one fire engine at each station. If one of these primary engines goes down, that station would be without a working engine. The new truck can now be used if the department has to send one of the primary trucks

2:00 p.m.

Arctic Plunge into Long Lake

Entertainment 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Slippery Steve & Scary Gary 9:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m.

Hitchville

Friday, February 28 5:00-7:00 p.m. ng Plu e Registration and Chili Feed

out for repairs. The newest feature to the tanker/pumper is the color. The department decided to go with red as the new color. Acquiring this truck was a two-year task in the making. It took about one year to do the research and get council approval and then another year to build it. The department is really excited to have this truck come onboard. In the City of Oak Grove, we are always looking for quality and professional individuals who are willing to join the fire department on both day and evening shifts. We are a paid on call department and have no full-time staff. The training

is provided and there are many benefits to becoming a paid on call firefighter. If you would like additional information, please contact our city hall during regular business hours. For more information on being a firefighter visit www. mnfirehire.com. This is a county-wide website that will explain what it is like to be a firefighter in both Oak Grove and Anoka County. You may contact city hall or stop in for an application. The interview process will start soon. In closing, we would like to thank the community for your continued support of the Oak Grove Fire Department.

Entertainment 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

Killer Hayseeds

Weekly Events & Specials Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Bingo 6:00 p.m. Texas Hold ’Em 7:00 p.m. Cribbage 7:00 p.m. All-U-Can-Eat Shrimp starting at 5:00 p.m., Keys for Cash Friday All-U-Can-Eat Fish Fry starting at 5:00 p.m. & Prime Rib Special, Meat Raffle at 6:00 p.m. Saturday $5 Breakfast 8:00-11:00 a.m. All-U-Can-Eat BBQ Ribs starting at 5:00 p.m. & Prime Rib Special Sunday Breakfast Buffet 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Wedding & Banquet Hall • Book your parties & events now, call 612-801-5553 • Weddings, rehearsal dinner, sports parties and more! 40 x 90 foot pavilion by the lake, will hold up to 300 guests. Quality catering available.

www.captainsonlonglake.com Hwy. 47 to 277th Avenue, East to Long Lake and left to Captain’s, 27821 Bayshore Drive NW Hours: Sun-Th 11a.m.-11p.m.; Fri & Sat 11a.m.-1a.m.

East Bethel Community School

Carnival/ Pizza Night Friday, March 28 5:30-8:00 p.m.

East Bethel Community School 21210 Polk Street NE, Cedar

Games • Fun Friends • Food Dunk your favorite Teacher!

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

French foreign exchange student seeks host family Ann Johnson St. Francis Community Member

A World Heritage Student Exchange Programs student, Salome from France, is seeking a host family in the Oak Grove area. Salome has met all of the academic and character qualifications necessary to be accepted as an exchange student by World Heritage. “Salome is a dynamic and open minded girl from a small town in the western part of France. She lives there with her parents and cat. She also has an older sister who is currently studying at University. Salome attends a boarding school where she lives with many other students. She has made many friends there, they are very important to her! Her favorite subjects at school are math, history, geography and languages. “I am hard working

and I feel concerned about my future.” During her free time, she spends time with her three best friends. “I love going out with them to the cinema, bowling and shopping!” She also likes to practice Zumba. Salome enjoys dancing, spending time with kids and cooking for the people she loves. “I like sharing time with others.” In the future she would like to be a teacher at a primary school. “It is my way to mix my passion for kids and my experience.” Salome also enjoys sports, especially high speed sports like skiing and jet skiing. Every year since she was five years old she has spent time skiing in the Alps. Salome also enjoys traveling; she has been to China twice with her family. Traveling there confirmed her interest for foreign cultures and independence. Salome

is ready to experience a new culture, meet people and learn about U.S. customs. “I really want to be a member of your family—which means live like you, meet your family and share family activities.” She is looking forward to meeting you! World Heritage, a highly respected, non-profit publicbenefit organization is dedicated to fostering cultural enrichment and intercultural understanding through youth

exchange programs. World Heritage provides students from Europe, Asia and the Americas the opportunity to spend an exchange experience in the U.S.A. If you are interested in hosting Salome or wish to obtain more information, contact Ann Johnson at 612619-0479, the local World Heritage Area Representative, call 1-866-939-4111 or visit World Heritage’s website at www.whhosts.com.

Are you having March madness? We can fix that!

Fundraisers, Benefits, Events Northside Mothers of Multiples will host its annual Super Kids Sale Saturday, March 22, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at Presbyterian Church of the Master, 789 Northdale Boulevard, Coon Rapids. Items for sale will include children’s clothing, furniture, toys and much more. For more information visit www. northsidemoms.org.

Ask Pet

Q: Why should I have my vehicle repaired at St. Francis Collision? Customer satisfaction! We’re referred by friends, family and neighbors.

Remote Car Starters Installed! Give us a call today.

Saturday, March 22 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. St. Francis Elementary School 22919 St. Francis Boulevard NW, St. Francis

Join in the fun with friends… Games • Prizes • Raffle • Food Silent Auction • Cake Walk Contact SFESapt@isd15.org for more information

Free estimates!

Sponsored by the St. Francis Elementary School Association of Parents & Teachers

23615 Highway 47 in St. Francis

763-753-6116

www.sfcollision.com

Free loaner car

or rental cars available!

• Full service auto body and paint, light mechanical work • We work with ALL insurance companies and guarantee all repairs. • Hours Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. or by appt.

Discover The Credit Union Advantage… Great Loan Rates • Great Service • Convenient Hours Great financial benefit for those who live, work, worship, attend school or own a business in Anoka County. Call Amanda 763-253-2771 or Shannon 763-253-2790 to learn more.

Anoka Hennepin Credit Union 23280 St. Francis Boulevard NW, St. Francis, Minnesota

www.ahcu.coop The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Ambassador Program candidates sought

Celebrate healthy living with Anoka County Senior Expo

Jacquie Goedel Program Coordinator

The Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program is excited to start accepting applications for the 2014 candidates. The Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program is a non-profit organization that serves as public relations ambassadors throughout the community of St. Francis and the state of Minnesota. There are two age levels for the Ambassadors. They are as follows: Little Miss St. Francis Ambassadors (ages 6-8) and Miss St. Francis Ambassadors (ages 16-21). Candidates must fit in one of the age categories by June 7, 2014 or receive an exception from the program coordinator. To learn more about the Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program and the candidate experience, please visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/MissSt.FrancisAmbassadors. If you have questions, please contact Jacquie Goedel at 612-282-7226.

Martha Weaver Anoka County Public Information Manager

Celebrate healthy living with seniors from throughout the north metro at the Anoka County Senior Expo. The 16th annual Senior Expo is being held Saturday, April 5, 9:00 a.m.-noon at Lord of Life Church, 14501 Nowthen Boulevard in Ramsey. “The Expo is a great resource for families,” said Anoka County Board of Commissioners Chair Rhonda Sivarajah. ”We encourage seniors and their families to take advantage of this onestop-shop for information about healthy activities and options, protection against fraud and abuse and opportunities in the community.” Attending seniors and their families can enjoy a free pancake breakfast and take advantage of blood pressure checks, minimassages and entertainment as well as finding out about the health directives and resources provided to them by Anoka County and related community organizations. The Expo has attracted more than 5,000 seniors and family members since its inception. The Anoka County Senior Expo is sponsored by the Elder/Vulnerable Adult Action Team, a subcommittee of the Alliance for a Violence Free Anoka County and Anoka County Human Services.

St. Francis Ambassadors take part in many area events, including community festivals like Pioneer Days. File Photo

We have openings for school age Children, before and after school.

A Wedding to Remember

With elegant wedding stationery & accessories by

763-753-2721

Childcare Center

3745 Bridge Street St. Francis, MN

763-753-5010 www.kidscountrychildcare.com 23256 St. Francis Blvd. NW, St. Francis Proudly accepting Child Care Assistance

Retirement Investments

With the first East Bethel Booster Days

Come in from the cold and have some fun!

Family Beach Party Fundraiser Saturday, March 22 1:00-4:00 p.m. East Bethel Ice Arena

Admission is $3 for an East Bethel Booster Days 2014 Button. Buttons can be purchased at the following East Bethel locations; Peoples Bank, Village Bank, City Hall, or Booster Day committee members. Also available at the door.

763-753-6614 www.highlandmoneymgmt.com

Games, food and music!

College Planning Life Insurance

David Johnson Serving the local community since 1999.

Securities offered through Sammons Securities Company LLC. Member FINRA / SIPC. Fee-based investment advisory services offered through Sigma Planning Corporation, a registered investment advisor. Highland Money Management Inc. is independent of Sammons Securities Co. LLC and Sigma Planning Corporation.

Large House Special Large thin crust House Special Pizza

20675 Highway 65 NE • East Bethel, MN 55011

Look for updates on the East Bethel Booster Day Facebook page or the city of East Bethel website at www.ci.east-bethel.mn.us.

23624 St. Francis Blvd., Suite #5 St. Francis, MN 55070

Only

1699

+tax

We deliver

premium pizza

straight to you!

Hwy 47 & Pederson Drive, St. Francis, MN

763-753-4577

Place your order online at www.mansettis-pizza.com

Sun 11:30 am-9:30 pm; Mon-Th 11 am-9:30 pm; Fri 11 am-11 pm; Sat 11:30 am-10:30 pm

1 OFF

$ 00

any Calzone

Valid on Dine-In St. Francis Mansetti’s Only

Not valid with any other specials or coupons. 763-753-4577 • Expires 3/31/14

Tuesdays Kids Eat

FREE! One with each paid adult.

1 Off Any Regular Size Pasta Dinner $ 50

4 Off

$ 00

Any X-Large Pizza 2 or more toppings

St. Francis Mansetti’s Only

Not valid with any other specials or coupons. 763-753-4577 • Expires 3/31/14

Featuring Lasagna, Chicken Alfredo, Rigatoni or Spaghetti

Valid on Dine-In St. Francis Mansetti’s Only

Not valid with any other specials or coupons. 763-753-4577 • Expires 3/31/14

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Prom dress sale set for early March Kari Buse 4-H Program Coordinator, University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County

Anoka County 4-H is holding a prom dress sale and is looking for donations. Tax receipts will be issued. File Photo

Teen makes donation Julie Jeppson Development Director, Stepping Stone Emergency Housing

In December, Jessica Peterson, a 17-year-old student at St. Francis High School and Coon Rapids Taco Bell employee, used her entire November paycheck to purchase Christmas gifts for 60 men and women staying at Stepping Stone Emergency Housing (SSEH) in Anoka. In support of Jessica’s compassion and philanthropy, Border Foods, Inc., locally owned franchisee of Taco Bell restaurants, donated in January the equivalent of Jessica’s purchases: $410. SSEH is the only adult homeless shelter in Anoka County. It serves up to 58 men and women ages 18 and over, with a waiting list of more than 100 adults.

Do you want prom fashion styles without prom fashion costs? Anoka County 4-H is holding a sale of gently-used or new prom/formal dresses and accessories on Saturday, March 1, 9:00 a.m.-noon at the Bunker Hills Activities Center, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW in Andover. Over 400 beautiful garments of all sizes and colors will be sold for $30 or less! Many of the dresses are new. Cash and check sales only. All proceeds of the sale will support Anoka County 4-H Youth Leadership programs, scholarships and

community service projects. Anoka County 4-H is collecting gently used formal dresses for the sale. If you are interested in donating dresses, they will be accepted until April 29 at the Anoka County 4-H Office during office hours,

8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW, Andover. Donation receipts furnished. For more information, contact buse0024@umn.edu, 763-755-1280 or visit z.umn. edu/prmdrssale.

Volunteer Opportunities Isanti County Fair is looking for volunteers Cambridge, MN • July 23-27, 2014 to help on various Visit our web site committees… parade, www.isanticountyfair.com or call entertainment, kids day, 763-639-6853. Be a part of a great grandstand, bandshell, etc. celebration July 23-27!

Pictured below (L-R): Julie Jeppson of SSEH, Jessica Peterson and her mother, Liz Uram.

at Patriot Lanes Bar & Grill St. Patrick’s Day Special Reuben Sandwich Basket ALL DAY only $5.99 Saturday, March 15 Moonlight Bowling at 9:00 p.m. Call ahead for reservations and WIN $$$

Patriot Lanes Bar and Grill 3085 Bridge Street • St. Francis • 763-753-4011 Hours 11:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m. • patriotlanesbarandgrill.com

Try our daily lunch specials!

St. Francis American Legion

Post 622 3073 Bridge Street • St. Francis • 763-753-4234 Monday-Friday ��11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Daily Lunch Specials

Monday

Happy Hour all day Bucket/Pizza Night Specials

Tuesday ��5 p.m. until gone

Broasted Chicken Basket

Wednesday

Mexican Night ��5-8 p.m. Meat Give-Away ��6 p.m. Buy first drink - get a ticket!

Thursday �� ALR Wing Night Friday Meat Raffle ��6 p.m.

Karaoke with Music Box

Saturday �Karaoke with Music Box Sunday Bingo ��4:00 p.m. NEW Pull Tabs Weekly Giving back to the community Charitable Gambling License #A-01520-003 Reception Hall Rental – Weddings etc. No cost to nonprofit organizations

Sunday, March 16 & Monday, March 17

Serving Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner All

Day!

Live Music! Saturday, March 8 • 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Slippery Steve & Scary Gary Saturday, April 5 • 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Dirty Dog Duo & One Mangy Cat

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Monday Burger Basket $4.99 Tuesday Kids Eat FREE 4-8 p.m., (12 & under) with adult purchase Wednesday All-You-Can-Eat Boneless Wings $12.99 Traditional Wings $13.99 Trivia starts at 7:00 p.m. Thursday Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Friday DJ Every Friday Daily Drink Specials Sun-Thurs 11 a.m.-Midnight

Where game time meets family time

Full Bar • Game Room Party Room

Monday, March 17

We can 23212 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite 700 cater your St. Francis, MN 55070 party! Highway 47 by County Market Showers, birthdays, any event

Book our party room.

Call 763-753-8000 to reserve the party room or for a takeout order. Sun 8 a.m.-Midnight; Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-Midnight Fri 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-1 a.m.

Heat Mizer Glass, Inc. HOME & BUSINESS

Free Estimates!

New Construction • Remodeling and Repair • Commercial Residential Windows & Doors Glass of All Types • Plastics Shower Doors • Mirrors

763-444-9234 30678 Hwy 47 NW Isanti, MN

H E A T

M I Z E R

s ”Give U ” A Break

AUTO Glass

MN Glass Association

Auto Glass Repaired & Replaced Boat • RV • Tractor & Heavy Equipment • Insurance Specialists

Nowthen Lions :

Kody’s Closet added to St. Francis High School Food Locker

An Olympic torch was recently on display at St. Francis Middle School. ISD 15 resident and substitute teacher Mike Starr brought in the torch he carried for the 1996 Summer Games for students and staff to view during this Olympic season. Submitted Photo

Beth Widell SFHS Teacher, Family & Consumer Science

Fish Fry Friday, March 7 & April 4 5:00–7:30 p.m. Nowthen Alliance Church Dining Room 19653 Nowthen Blvd. NW

Free Will Offering!

Recently, Kody’s Closet was added to the Food Locker at St. Francis High School. Now, in addition to food and clothing, personal hygiene items are available to students in need. Kody’s Closet and the Food Locker are maintained by SFHS teacher Heidi Robinson and her students. School staff and students along with community members have been very generous in donating items for students in need. A community group contacted the high school and the middle school and asked if they could install and help keep stocked, a closet filled with personal hygiene items such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, deodorant and other items. This donation is made in the memory of a young man who died tragically. During Kody’s life, he spent time helping people in need, so his family is keeping his memory alive by installing these closets in area schools. St. Francis High School staff and students feel honored to be the recipient of this gift. For more information about the Food Locker and Kody’s Closet or to make a donation, contact St. Francis High School at 763-213-1531.

On the menu is breaded Alaskan Pollock, boiled red potatoes, green beans, cole slaw, bread, cookies and beverages.

All proceeds will be given back to the community of Nowthen through donations and projects. Questions? Email nowthenlions@yahoo.com

Dumpster Rental • We Haul Junk Cars • 6 • 10 • 15 • 20 • 30 Besides hauling junk cars we also yard dumpsters remove metal. Ask about snow plowing. • Household junk • Construction debris • We also load junk a1rolloffs.com for you

763-444-6992

Recently two new members were installed to the Cedar/East Bethel Lions Club. Pictured (L-R) are Lion Sponsor Kay Hunter, new member Lion Audrey Lundstrom, new member Lion Kurt Hedtke and Lion Sponsor Len Yotter. SUBMITTED Photo

Your Local Stop for Spring Project Needs We have: Painting Supplies, Tools, Lumber, Rentals, Screen Repairs, Small Engine Repair and much, much more.

Come in and check out our Super Buys!

3645 Bridge Street, St. Francis, MN 763-753-1265 www.stfrancishardware.com 20

12 Months preferred interest financing available!

Bryant Factory Rebates

1 300

$ , up to

Utility Rebates

805

$ up to

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Sandhill Center, then and now June Gossler Anderson Sandhill Center advisory Council

The former Bethel School took on a new look in 2005 as the renamed building became a center for learning and participation in the arts. The twelve member advisory council was busy that spring and summer, overseeing renovations to the Sandhill Center for the Arts, which opened its doors in September. With a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, programs were set up to be affordable and appealing for those wanting to learn and connect with others sharing similar interests.

In addition, a writers’ group, an artists’ group, book club, yoga and fitness opportunities were added. The gymnasium was converted into the Bethel Cabaret and monthly music venues became popular events. While still retaining the original vision, the Sandhill Center has evolved somewhat over the years. Local artists display works of art and offer hand-crafted items for sale. Stained glass classes and work space are offered during the school year. The St. Francis Book Club still meets the first Tuesday of the month as it has since Sandhill Center first opened its doors and the Artists at Sandhill meet the second Monday of the month. The Bethel Cabaret hosts the very popular and wellattended Lunch Bunch the second Tuesday of the month, September through May. The fitness center is available

Monday-Friday and for only $2 per visit and no membership fees, sees a steady stream of users. The SilverSneakers (now including Healthways) classic and yoga classes are well attended. Another tenant in the building is the city of Bethel, which leases office space. Possible plans for the future include a community theater, maybe for a once-a-year dinner theater and Christmas show and more classes and events. A new advisory committee has formed under Community Education Director Troy Ferguson and new staff members, Chris SpindlerSchlottman and Lori Krause, are exploring more avenues for Sandhill Center to grow and continue to serve our community. If you have any suggestions for future classes or events, please call the Sandhill Center at 763-213-1641.

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763.444.4022 Cedar Creek Community School

Spring Carnival Saturday, March 29 • 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

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Games

Bounce House • Face Painting Fun Hair Styling • Plinko Obstacle Course • Photo Booth

Food

Grilled Burgers • Hot Dogs Taco-in-the-Bag • Cotton Candy Fruit Smoothies • Cookies

Food & Game Tickets

On sale in the Main School Office and the day of the Carnival 2 Tickets for $1

Silent Auction Baskets

Theme baskets provided by classrooms and local businesses Bidding from 11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at carnival (need not be present to win)

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The Bethel Cabaret, part of the Sandhill Center, has been the site of many entertaining and educational programs since its inception. SUBMITTED Photo

23038 Rum River Boulevard NW St. Francis, Minnesota 55070 Cell: (763) 360-4551 Office: (763) 323-8080 Fax: (763) 753-0395 larry.anderson@results.net www.results.net/larry.anderson Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Raffle Tickets & Information

Available for purchase for $1 each from any CCCS student, in the Main School Office and the day of the Carnival Drawing to be held Sunday, March 30 (need not be present to win)

Spring Carnival sponsored by CCCS PTO

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www.greenbarngardencenter.com The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

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From Page 1

School lunch

ISD 15 Community Education Rec Department basketball is always lots of fun! Young boys and girls from the community met on Mondays and Wednesdays December through January. Many coaches and parents worked with the teams to build the skill level of each child. It was a huge success for 80 children to get a chance to learn and experience the game of basketball with parents volunteering to make this happen. Submitted Photo

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around 7 percent, receive an automated low balance ($5 or less) phone call notification each evening. An even smaller number of students, about 4 percent, carry a negative balance. About half a dozen students carry a negative balance of 5 meals or more and those cases are dealt with at the school level. Klobe said the ultimate goal is to have district departments work together to find out what is going on with the student. Parents are also reminded of the availability of educational benefits and are urged to re-apply if circumstances have changed to see if they qualify for free or reduced meals. Educational benefits can be applied for at any time during the year. Circumstances change for families and those applications can be processed whenever needed. The application process is simple and forms can be found on the district website at www.isd15.org. Assistance is available to help parents/guardians fill out the forms. Applications are processed confidentially and the process is transparent for students when they enter their PIN number in the cafeteria. Most importantly, though, Nutrition Services staff do notice when students need help and will report their concern. Many times, not having enough money for lunch can be an indicator that other struggles might be going on in the family. This is an opportunity for staff, such as the school social worker, to step in when additional help and support may be needed. Ferguson added, “Nutrition Services staff are very proactive in working with families to address the wide variety of family financial situations that may be posing problems in regard to paying for lunch. It will be my recommendation to the School Board that the District research and develop a comprehensive policy to address our meal delivery that has been in place for a fair amount of time. We will build upon the successful strategies that Nutrition Services has already developed and continue to make them better for our students.”

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The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis Mayor’s Column

Financial Focus

Jerry Tveit

Blake Cheeley Edward Jones Financial Advisor

I would like to take a moment to let everybody know that we need your help! We are in need of volunteers for the Park, Planning, Zoning and Charter commissions! The St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce is also in dire need of people to volunteer to help make Pioneer Days a success. If you can spare some time, please consider supporting your community. We would love our citizens to be engaged and help us make OUR city a better place to live and work. This past week I was invited to give a State of the City address and I would like to share some highlights from the presentation. The St. Francis Community and Business Expo will be held at St. Francis High School on Saturday, April 26. If you are not doing anything, come on out and see what area businesses have to offer. The St. Francis Police Department has implemented an on-going prescription drug take back program. A drop box is located in the lobby of the police department where you can deposit unused or outdated medication. If you would like to know more about this program, please see the city website at www.stfrancismn.org. In order to help stop vandalism that has plagued our parks, we are using a crime tip line. Call 763-267-6199 to report suspicious activity. Hopefully, we can gain some information that will lead to an arrest. I want to ask all of you to keep an eye out for criminal behavior and call 911 to minimize the damage at our parks. We have seen an increase in home sales and building this past year keeping our building official busy. Lately, several businesses have decided to re-invest in St. Francis. O’Reilly Auto Parts, Meridian Behavioral Health and Super America just to name a few. I want to say thank you to them for recognizing that we are a great city to invest in.

St. Francis Police Department news Jake Rehling St. Francis Police Department Sergeant

The St. Francis Police Department has launched a new Crime Tip Line at 763-267-6199. This new program allows citizens the ability to call in tips about ongoing or suspicious criminal activity within our city. It is not uncommon for citizens to be hesitant about reporting possible criminal activity out of fear of retaliation. This new program will allow callers to remain anonymous and leave messages without ever giving out their name on a recorded line. The Crime Tip Line will be checked on a regular basis for the police department to investigate the information received. The prescription drug take back program is free, anonymous and accepts all prescriptions and medications and disposes them, no questions asked. Drop box location is in the lobby at the St. Francis Police Department, 4058 St. Francis Boulevard NW, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

You talk. We listen. In person. Blake A Cheeley Financial Advisor

23306 Cree Street NW St. Francis, MN 55070 763-753-2988 Member SIPC

www.edwardjones.com

How will your investments affect your child’s financial aid prospects? Even though it’s only February, college financial aid officers are already gathering documents, crunching numbers and otherwise working to determine grants for the school year that starts this coming fall. If you have children you plan on sending to college, how will your own savings and investments affect their chances of getting financial aid? The answer depends not only on how much money you have, but also where you keep it. Most colleges base their aid calculations on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which currently counts up to 5.64 percent of certain parent-owned assets in determining federal or state aid. By contrast, FAFSA counts up to 20 percent of a child’s assets, such as an UGMA or UTMA account. So, what parent-owned assets are counted when determining a student’s need for financial aid? They include savings and checking accounts, non-retirement investment accounts and other types of assets. You do not have to report retirement accounts — such as traditional or Roth IRAs, 401(k)s and pensions — on the FAFSA. However, if

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affect aid decisions. At least a year before your first child heads off to college, you may want to contact the financial aid office at a local school to ask questions about FAFSA, scholarships, loans and other aspects of assistance. Since most colleges and universities follow similar rules regarding financial aid, you should be able to get some helpful answers, no matter where your child goes to school. Of course, even with careful planning, your student may not qualify for financial aid. If this is the case, you will need to consider other strategies for paying for college. But keep this in mind: It’s best to develop a savings strategy for both college savings and one’s own retirement goals. So, study the financial aid rules, consider investing in college-funding vehicles such as 529 plans and do whatever else you can to help get your kids through school, but don’t forget about your own needs — because they are important, too. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

you start taking withdrawals from these accounts, the withdrawals must be reported on the FAFSA as income for the year in which the transactions occurred — which means these withdrawals could affect your child’s financial aid package the following year. A 529 plan is one popular college-savings vehicle. If you own a 529 plan, you will need to report it on FAFSA as a parent-owned asset. But when you take withdrawals from the 529 plan, they won’t be counted as parent or student income on FAFSA and they won’t incur federal income taxes, provided the money is used for qualified higher education expenses. (If you don’t use the money for these expenses, you’ll be taxed and potentially penalized by 10 percent on the earnings.) Because a 529 plan is counted as a parental asset on FAFSA, some people ask grandparents to own a 529 plan. But while the value of an intact grandparent-controlled 529 plan will be excluded from FAFSA, the withdrawals themselves will be counted as untaxed income to the student on the following year’s FAFSA and this money could certainly

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STEM Chicks encourage girls’ interest in science, technology, engineering and math Tina Perpich Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Dissecting cow eyeballs and programming Lego robots were among the activities sponsored by STEM Chicks, a recently formed student group at Anoka-Ramsey Community College, during a February 19 meeting with a Girl Scout troop at the Coon Rapids Campus. STEM Chicks formed this fall to support and encourage women and girls to study STEM subjects: science, technology, engineering and math. At the February event, STEM Chicks members assisted faculty members in STEM activities with troop members, ages 7-9. Besides dissecting cow eyeballs with Melissa Mills, a college biology instructor, and building and programming Lego robots with William Saari, a college engineering instructor, the girls investigated Fibonacci numbers, a mathematical pattern found throughout nature with Nina Bohrod, a math instructor. “Encouraging girls’ interest in STEM subjects at an early age is important,” said Bohrod. A 2012 study released by Girl Scout Research Institute found that even though the majority of girls have a high interest in STEM fields, few of them identify a STEM career as their first choice. The study found that girls say they don’t know much about STEM careers and the opportunities in these fields. Ryann Lynch, president of STEM Chicks, said the findings reflect her experience. “I was supported in my interest in chemistry but didn’t know how I could apply it,” said Lynch, who plans to become a pediatrician. “It helps a lot to give girls an idea of what they can do in these fields.” The study also showed that girls interested in STEM subjects are drawn to creative and hands-on aspects. Specifically, a high percentage of girls interested in STEM subjects like to solve problems (85 percent), build things and put things together (67 percent), do hands-on science projects (83 percent) and ask questions about how things work and find ways to answer these questions (80 percent), the study showed. For more information about STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programming at Anoka-Ramsey Black Community College, visit AnokaRamsey.edu. _Pantone_BLK.eps _CMYK_BLK.eps _RGB_BLK.eps _RGB_BLK_Word.jpg _RGB_BLK_Screen.jpg

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Tom Hackbarth State rep. District 31B

”Unsession” might not be accurate label The word unsession has been used to describe plans for the 2014 session. Actions as we convene paint a different picture. I wish this year would be an unsession, devoted to eliminating excessive government, cutting cumbersome red tape and repealing unnecessary laws. About the only place we have seen majority members express interest in following through with this is their growing interest in undoing some of the tax increases they themselves passed in 2013. Bullying bill The Safe and Supportive Minnesota Schools Act creates a 24-member unelected board of state bureaucrats that would be responsible for crafting bullying policies that would apply to all Minnesota schools. We all agree our schools should be free from bullying. But the bottom line is this: school districts already are required by law to have anti-bullying policies in place. Local officials and parents know what is best for our area and decisions should rest in their hands, not with St. Paul bureaucracy. 10-cent recycling deposit Legislation has not been formally submitted in the House, but members of the

majority have expressed interest in charging a 10cent deposit on beverage containers. Proponents say this would help increase Minnesota’s recycling rate. I would rather focus on developing single-sort technology to boost recycling participation instead of placing higher costs and burdens on citizens. Minimum wage increase Another bill would increase the state minimum wage from $6.15 per hour to $9.50 per hour for large employers and $8.50 per hour for small employers. The increase comes in three stages and reaches the new minimums by August 2015. Every year after that, the minimum wage would be adjusted based on the annual increase in inflation. MNsure Minnesota’s new government-run health insurance program already is in place, but serious concerns may be addressed this session. More than $150 million in taxpayer money has been spent setting up this program, yet it has been faltering since it started October 1. An independent report says MNsure’s structure is ”non-existent” and that executives have been making decisions in a ”crisis mode.” The state’s legislative

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auditor is conducting a full-scale investigation of MNsure to learn more about the program’s failings and to determine why problems were not identified and/or made public sooner. Bonding bill A bill that borrows money to pay for construction projects throughout the state will be up for discussion this session. A super majority is necessary to pass a bonding bill, meaning at least several Republicans would have to provide support. Rep. Hackbarth of Cedar can be reached at 651-296-2439; or rep.tom.hackbarth@house.mn

Tax filing season 2014 begins with more returns filed WASHINGTON — The IRS today announced that tax filings in 2014 have outpaced filings for the same time last year. As of February 7, the IRS received 27.3 million returns, up 2.5 percent compared to the same time last year. Electronically filed returns account for almost 96 percent of those filed so far this year. Taxpayers, either through tax preparers or from their home computers, have e-filed more than 26 million returns so far this year, up almost 4 percent compared to the same time last year. As of February 7, taxpayers have filed more than 13 million returns from home computers, an increase of 14.7 percent compared to the same period last year. Refunds are up for 2014, with almost 19.5 million issued this year, an increase of more than 18 percent compared to the same time last year. The average refund as of February 7 is $3,317, up 4.6 percent compared to the same time last year. (Refund averages generally have higher dollar values early in the filing season than later in the year.) Most refunds are directly deposited into taxpayer accounts; just over 87 percent of all refunds issued were directly deposited as of February 7. Source: www.irs.gov

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

I Hate When That Happens

Randy Gerdin ASE certified technician

Things unseen

serious and expensive damage to your vehicle. The first item is something we used to replace often, the spark plug. Yes, they still need to be replaced periodically. We see many vehicles that come in with over 120,000 miles on them with the original spark plugs. The vehicle may indeed start and run okay; however, the performance and efficiency may be lacking, in addition to a potential problem of removing them at some point. We have seen numerous spark plugs break off when being removed. That may become expensive, It is best to check your owner’s manual for the recommended replacement interval. Some vehicles are at every 30K miles, some at 60K and some may be at 100K. It is generally cheaper to replace them before a problem occurs. Plus your vehicle will start better and run better. Over the last few months, we have seen a few vehicles come in on the back of a tow truck and diagnosed them with a broken timing belt. This is a belt that is inside a cover on the front of the engine. It is not easily accessible on most vehicles. Again, check the service manual for the recommended time to replace this belt. Most vehicles can expect to go

We Minnesotans again can brag about how tough we are as we have endured a very cold and snowy winter this year. I was indeed getting very tired of going outside to the biting cold and wind. But like always, we toughen up and survive and live to brag about it. I know it was a tough winter for cars when one of our customers called to get her car in because it would not start. She asked if she could get one of our rental cars. Unfortunately all of our rentals were out with other people. She said that she had called one of the big rental car companies and they told her that they were out of cars, nationwide. That says something about how bad the weather was for the entire nation. As March is nearly here, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, I hope. After such a severe winter, many vehicles that had weak batteries or ignition systems did not make it through without perhaps a tow or at least a jump start. It seems that many things that are out of sight are out of mind when it comes to our vehicles. There are a few items I would like to highlight that some people forget about. Some of these items may leave you stranded and some may result in

Free class Dollars Into Sense

between 60,000 and 90,000 miles before they should be replaced. In many cases if this belt would break, the crankshaft and the camshafts will get out of sync. The pistons can hit the valves and bend the valves or even crack the heads. This can be a very expensive repair if the engine heads need to be removed and repaired. Then a new timing belt needs to be put on anyway. So it is best to replace them when called for. We also recommend replacing the timing belt idler pulleys and tensioners when this procedure is done. In some cases the water pump should also be replaced as the timing belt may also run the water pump. The reason we recommend these items is, even if the timing belt is replaced and then in the future one of these other items would fail, the timing

belt would come off and the engine damage would be the same. In many cases the additional labor is negligible when the timing belt is being done. The only additional expense would be the price of the parts. Don’t forget common things like the engine oil and filter. This seems like a simple thing, however, we see many vehicles come in with low oil levels or oil that has not been changed at the proper interval. Remember to consult the severe service part of your owner’s manual. That is what we need to go by here in our climate. It is also usually more convenient to schedule and budget for these repairs rather than wait until they surprise you with problems on the road. I hate when that happens.

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Anoka County Extension Staff and Dollar Works Volunteers will present a free Dollars into Sense class on Tuesday, March 18 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bunker Hills Activities Center, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard, Andover and again at 7:00 p.m. at the Anoka County Human Services Center, 1201 89th Avenue, Blaine. To register, call University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County, at 763-755-1280 at least three days prior to the class you wish to attend. Classes will cover budgeting and address credit issues, tracking expenses, making a spending plan, goal setting and how to get additional help.

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Walk-ins Welcome 25

Sports & Outdoors Special Olympians take trip of a lifetime

St. Francis Area Special Olympics athletes are looking forward to starting basketball skills practice and competing in area and state tournaments this spring. Shortly before the holidays, the team finished a strong season of bowling with a pizza party provided by Ham Lake Lanes. Pictured above at the bowling event are Tammy and Kaitlin Salo (left) and Mack Doyle (right). Ham Lake Lanes has been a strong supporter since the program started in 2005 and we appreciate all they do for us. For more information about Special Olympics volunteer opportunities and athlete registration, check out specialolympicsminnesota.org. SUBMITTED PHOTO

St. Francis Youth Travel baseball 2014

Tryouts at St. Francis High School Gymnasium

or varsity baseball field in case of good weather

St. Francis Area Special Olympics athletes enjoyed a trip to Disney World last fall. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Deb Humann St. Francis Area Special Olympics

Last October, six athletes from

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9 & 10 year olds: 8:00-10:15 a.m. 11 & 12 year olds: 10:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. 13 & 14 year olds: 1:30-3:45 p.m.

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the St. Francis Area Special Olympics team went on a trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. It was the first time some had been to Disney World as well as the first time flying. The group was able to rent a house with a pool that had enough bedrooms (and more importantly, enough bathrooms) near the parks. The trip itself was exciting and everyone had a great time— another trip is already being discussed. The things that made this trip so memorable were not necessarily the rides and shows, but the attitudes of those met on daily adventures. An incident that stands out occurred while boarding a ride at Disney World. One of the group’s young ladies was struggling to get into the boat— she was afraid to get in and sit down. She’d start to take a step in and then take her foot back out. This went on for quite some time and we were nervously anticipating people waiting in line would be getting impatient and angry. Instead, those around us applauded and praised her when she finally took her seat and was on her way with her friends. At Animal Kingdom, an anonymous person paid our entire group’s gratuity for our lunch with Mickey Mouse and friends. These acts of kindness were heartfelt and really made the vacation something special for everyone.

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Wildlife Science Center’s Winter Festival — dog sledding and skijoring event Joy Fusco Wildlife Science Center

The Wildlife Science Center west of Forest Lake is having their annual Dog Sledding and Skijoring event on Sunday, March 2, 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Meet real dog mushers

and their dog teams. Learn about winter sports and dog nutrition for working dogs all while surrounded by the Wildlife Science Center’s resident wolf packs and other wildlife. Dogs are welcome to come but please be sure to bring a leash!

The St. Francis 6A girls basketball team took second place at the St. Francis Girls Basketball Tournament February 2 and 3. The players are back row, (L-R): Lindsey Peterson, Myah Stenberg, Amme Sheforgen, Caitlyn Riley and Hannah Pekarek; front row: Hailey Heckenlaible, Eve Schultz, Emma Kopet, Emma Goldeman and Ella Roberts. Coaches are Gary Gohl, John Riley and Ben Hildre. Submitted Photo

Enjoy a dog sled ride during the Wildlife Science Center’s annual Winter Festival.

Submitted Photo

Activities during the day include dog sledding presentations, working dog nutrition discussions, dog sled rides for an additional fee and Is My Dog a Wolf? presentation by Peggy Callahan, executive director of the Wildlife Science Center. Local groups and businesses attending include: Hot Dog Fundraiser, Musher Joel Kersting of Suomi Hills, Quimmisiaq Inuits with mushers Scott and Terry Miller, Lonesome Pine Malamutes with mushers Sandy and Jan Hagan and Local Dog Rescue Group. Admission to the festival is $8 per adult, $6 per child (ages 4 to 12) and all proceeds benefit the Wildlife Science Center. The Wildlife Science Center is located at 5463 West Broadway Avenue in Columbus, Minnesota. For more information on the Winter Festival or the science center, call 651-464-3993 or visit www.wildlifesciencecenter.org.

St. Francis boys basketball recently placed second in a tournament. Pictured are (L-R): Coaches Swanson and Rignell, John Westling, Tanner Loe, Ashton Perry, Owen Luckow, Blake Swanson, Justin Albachten, Coach Karyn Perry, Tay Aho, Skyler Miles, Ryan Kemna and Conner Rignell. Submitted Photo

Girls Grades K-12

Play Rec Slow Pitch Softball in Andover this Spring/Summer for fun!

• Affordable—one fee, includes uniform and two in-house tournaments • Play with friends • All games are played at Sunshine Park—excellent facilities with dugouts, scoreboards, concessions and lighted fields • Players from all cities are welcome: St. Francis, Cedar, Bethel, East Bethel, Oak Grove, Isanti, Zimmerman, Elk River…

31 Season st

Andover Athletic Association is one of a few leagues with a girls rec slow pitch option.

For detailed information about girls and high school co-ed leagues, please visit our Slow Pitch page at

andoverathletic.org The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

• United States Specialty Sports Association sanctioned league and umpires • High school girls and boys grades 9-12—get a co-ed team together and play in our established High School Co-Ed League on Monday nights. Limit of 14 teams. Show your high school spirit!

High school golf season begins March 17 Preseason banquet scheduled for March 22 Andy LaHoud and Brent Swaggert St. Francis High School Golf Coaches

On March 17 both the St. Francis High School boys and girls golf teams kick off their 2014 seasons. The boys golf team is looking forward to a lot of competition to compete for varsity playing time. The team graduated three seniors last year and is returning captains senior Kyle Wagner and junior Taylor McMorrow, and sophomore Tanner Engberg, who contributed to the varsity squad in 2013. The team will be looking for leadership from these three players and for incoming players and junior varsity members from last year to complete the 2014 varsity lineup. The girls are coming off a fantastic 2013 campaign which included sending two

The 2014 captains for St. Francis High School golf include (L-R): senior Kyle Wagner, junior Alex Hillesheim and junior Taylor McMorrow. The golf season kicks off March 17. Submitted Photo individuals to the 3A state tournament for the first time in school history. The team returns two varsity starters including team captain junior Alex Hillesheim, who earned her way to day two of the section championship last season. With four seniors lost to graduation (including the two state participants) there will be plenty of opportunities for golfers to step up from a JV team that finished second in

the conference in 2013. Both teams will be hosting a preseason banquet on Saturday, March 22, 6:00 p.m. at The Refuge Golf Club in Oak Grove. The event will feature games, raffles, a silent auction and more. Proceeds from the event are used to support the SFHS golf program. For more information contact Terry McMorrow at 612-961-5780 or email tmgooseman@msn.com.

Members from the ISD 15 Community Ed Fitness X class participated in the 2014 Cystic Fibrosis Stair Climb Challenge at the IDS Center in Minneapolis in February. They climbed 50 flights equaling 1,280 steps. Participants were, (L-R): Eric Ortman, Sherri Ortman, Al Saastamoinen, Nancy Saastamoinen, Judy Grufman, Beth Olson, Anita Koep and Theresa Morrison. Submitted Photo

A brief history of skiing Millions of people flock to snow-covered mountains and hills each and every year to experience the thrill of skiing. Skiing can trace its origins to what is now Norway and Sweden. Cave paintings dating back to 5000 B.C. illustrate a skier with one pole in the Nordland region of Norway, while remnants

North Metro Soccer Association

Recreational Program Spring/Summer 2014 Registration NOW OPEN Traditional Recreational Program

Comp Prep Program

$90 Includes Uniform (ages as of 8/1/2013)

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.

Monday/Wednesday ages 4 & 5 (U6 co-ed) 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 12-17 (U13-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 28 and ends on June 28 with the Jamboree.

$110 Includes Uniform

The registration fee will increase by $35 beginning March 1. Registration closes Saturday, March 15. Mail-In Registration (Online preferred northmetrosoccer.org) North Metro Soccer Assoc. PO Box 250 Cedar, MN 55011-0250 Registration forms are available at all city halls in the area.

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. 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. 28

of a primitive ski were found in Hoting, Sweden. The term “ski” was actually derived from the Norse word “skio,” meaning split piece of wood. It is generally believed skiing evolved from snowshoeing and the ski poles were developed from the walking sticks snowshoers used for balance. Skiing was initially a method of efficient transportation over the snow. The first skis were likely similar to the cross-country skis used today. Skiing as a sport came much later and it wasn’t until the mid- to late-nineteenth century that downhill skiing developed. Various engineers created bindings that enabled skiers to ski without the risk of losing their skis. Sondre Norheim of Norway is credited as one of the first developers of a downhill ski that enabled him to win the first Norwegian downhill competition. Mathias Zdarsky and Hannes Schneider were two other innovators that made subtle changes to Norheim’s designs, developing more modern skis and techniques. Skiing became more competitive when the first slalom races took place in 1921 in Switzerland. Skiing was later included as a sport at the 1924 Winter Olympic Games in Chamonix, France, where ski jumping and cross-country skiing were introduced as events. Jacob Tullin Thams of Norway was the first Olympic ski jumping champion. The silver medal was awarded to Narve Bonna of Norway and the bronze went to Anders Haugen of the United States. Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Life

Classified & Meetings

PAGE 32

First Baptist Church of St. Francis to celebrate 150th anniversary Dan Emery 150th Anniversary Committee, First Baptist Church of St. Francis

First Baptist Church of St. Francis will celebrate its 150th anniversary with a special service and events March 16. The celebration begins at 9:00 a.m. with a coffee fellowship, followed by morning worship service at 10:00 a.m. A lasagna dinner will begin at noon. An afternoon worship service will be held at 1:00 p.m. All events are open to the public. A history of the church has been compiled by member Dan Emery featuring writing by Helen Palm and Eunice Palm. First Baptist Church of St. Francis dates back to March 15, 1864, when four members organized Oak Grove Baptist Church. They met in the homes of the members and in the Oak Grove Schoolhouse. A church building was erected two miles south of St. Francis and was dedicated on June 30, 1872 as Oak Grove Baptist Church. Rev. J. B. Tuttle delivered the dedication sermon. On October 28, 1888 Rev. R. A. Shadick came to be the pastor of the Oak Grove Baptist Church. It was decided to provide a place for Rev. Shadick to live, to keep his horse and to supply him with firewood. After the first snow had fallen in the fall of 1893, the Oak Grove Baptist Church was put on runners for its journey through tamarack swamps, brooks and meadows to the village of St. Francis. John Woodbury had most kindly offered to give a lot free of charge on which to put the church. May 26, 1894, the name of the church was changed from the Oak Grove Baptist Church

to the First Baptist Church of St. Francis. Later, a brick parsonage was built and other improvements made in 1903. The 100th anniversary of this church was observed August 19-23, 1964. The evening of the 21st was Former Pastors Night featuring Pastors Arthur Giles, John Steffenson, Wesley Walker, Charles Warder and Harold Palmer. On the evening of the 22nd a banquet was served at the new elementary school in St. Francis. In the afternoon there was the dedication of a new parsonage. The people of the church had felt the need for a new church building and facilities for a long time and since it was not possible to expand on the present property, five acres of land were purchased from Mr. and Mrs. Walter Lindeman in 1975. They generously donated one acre of land. Two more acres were purchased from George Erickson Local artist Virginia Adams captured beauty of the former First Baptist Church building. so that the property would go up The structure suffered irreparable damage during a fire in October 1997. File Drawing to Highway 47. A groundbreaking the fall of 1976, with children enrolled Francis. Visit www.fbcsaintfrancis. ceremony was held May 15, 1977. The from kindergarten through grade 12. com or call 763-753-1230 for more church was built and the first service Pastor Steve Brower is the current information about the church and its was held August 14,1977. The bell from pastor at First Baptist Church of St. anniversary celebration. the tower in the old church building was removed and placed on the new property. The old church building was sold to the River of Life Church. That Open building has since burned down. Later Evenings that fall a new parsonage was built by the church. Nitrous The church had felt a deep need Oxide Dr. Thomas Swenson for Christian education for children, Available where their spiritual and academic • www.roundlakedental.com Cosmetic welfare would be of greatest concern. 13841 Round Lake Blvd. NW • Andover Dentistry After much prayer and discussion, 2 minutes north of Highway 10 on Round Lake Boulevard the St. Francis Christian School was established. The first classes began in

Complete Family Dentistry

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ound R Lake

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Weight Loss

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6:15-6:30 p.m. Check-in time 6:30-7:15 p.m. Introduction 6:15-8:15 p.m. WEIGHT LOSS HYPNOSIS 6:15-9:15 p.m. Stop Smoking Hypnosis

January 22, 2012 ”I attended your hypnosis clinic last April in Anoka. Your clinic was life changing to me. I have lost over 40 lbs. Thanks!” - Lori Q.

July 17, 2012 ”I was a chain smoker, 2-3 packs a day! I quit smoking Register with ISD 15 after one session, Community Ed at 763-213-1640 Bring a pillow, blanket and sleeping bag for added comfort. no cravings or withdrawal. It’s been New Way Hypnosis Clinic, Inc. 20 years now and Private therapy will be available at a higher cost, still a non-smoker, 320-255-9680 (Office) call 1-877-255-9680. thanks to this clinic.” Dr. Mary Fischer, D.C.H.C.Ht. - George Paul Doctor of Clinical Hypnotherapy Visit our website at www.hypnosisclinic.net

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The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis Eyecare

Testimonials

(FREE reinforcement CD)

23168 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite #300 St. Francis

763.753.6019 Jeffrey W. Williams, O.D.

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

763.712.9854 Alicia M. Yantes, O.D.

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

Karen Koch Red Cross Coordinator

The Red Cross will be having a blood drive on Monday, March 17, 1:00-7:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church at the corner of 229th Avenue and Ambassador Boulevard in St. Francis. Walk-ins are welcome, but it is helpful to make an appointment. You may do so by calling 763-753-1234 or you may sign up online at www. redcrossblood.org.

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 Nowthen Alliance Church 19653 Nowthen Boulevard Nowthen • 763-441-1600 www.nowthenalliance.org 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

Births Audrey Joyce Anderson was born January 3, 2014 at Methodist Hospital in Rochester. Parents are Brett and Melanie Anderson. Brett is a 2003 graduate of St. Francis High School. Melanie is a 2004 graduate of East View High School in Apple Valley. Brett and Melanie are registered nurses working for the Mayo Clinic Health System in Rochester. Proud grandparents are Steve and Cindy Anderson from Andover and grandmother Marthea Putnam from Apple Valley. Reed Robert Lofgren was born on January 18 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parents are Chris Lofgren and Janice Audrey Anderson is pictured with her Lonsky of Isanti. Reed proud parents Melanie and Brett. Brett is welcomed to the is a graduate of St. Francis High School. family by siblings Isabel, Submitted Photo Carson and Jaylyn. Floyd Kenneth Simonson was born on January 20 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 8.2 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parent is Katherine Solberg of Cambridge. Floyd is welcomed to the family by big brother Cody. Zander Thomas Steenerson was born on January 30 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 9 pounds, 9 ounces and was 21½ inches long. Proud parents are Jason and Anna Steenerson of Isanti. Zander is welcomed to the family by siblings Leah, Evan and Callie. Adalyn Elizabeth Sundeen was born on February 11 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces and was 17½ inches long. Proud parents are Nicholas Sundeen and Megan Leaf of Cambridge. Adalyn is welcomed to the family by big brother Adam.

St. Francis United Methodist Church A Community Dedicated to Seeking Christ and Serving Others

JOIN US FOR A JOURNEY THROUGH THE STORY! Come discover together with us how our story is found in God’s story! Join us for Ash Wednesday Service • March 5 at 7:00 p.m. Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. • 6th grade-adult Sunday School at 10:00 a.m. • 5th grade and under Worship at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Kevin Coder • 3914-229th Avenue • St. Francis www.stfrancis-umc.com • 763-753-2273

Our Saviour’s

Lutheran Church & Preschool Worship Sundays at 8:00, 9:15 & 10:45 a.m. Wednesday evening Power Up at 6:30 p.m. Dinner served at 5:30 p.m.

St. Patrick Catholic Church 19921 Nightingale Street NW Oak Grove • 763-753-2011 www.st-patricks.org The Bridge 6443 Norris Lake Road Nowthen • 763-516-5995 www.sfbridge.org West Bethel United Methodist Church 1233 221st Avenue NE Cedar • 763-434-6451

Hear a Dutch Holocaust survivor’s story of courage Helen Peterson Nowthen Alliance Church Office

Nowthen Alliance Church Primetime presents Conversations with Corrie ten Boom, a one-woman dramatization presented by storyteller Pati Kachel. The 75-minute performance is on Thursday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. and is open to the public. A question and answer session will follow the performance. Corrie Ten Boom and her courageous Christian family helped hundreds of Jewish people during the Nazi occupation of Holland during World War II. The story of their work in ”God’s Underground” is retold in this captivating one-woman dramatization. Dressed in costume and with a Dutch accent, professional storyteller Kachel transforms herself to authentically portray ten Boom. Listeners will be deeply touched by the wisdom and insight of this unforgettable communicator of God’s love, hope and forgiveness. For more information about the performance, contact Helen Peterson at 763-7531267 or the Nowthen Alliance Church office at 763-441-1600. Nowthen Alliance Church is located at 19653 Nowthen Boulevard NW. Admission is free, a free will offering will be received.

(Above) Corrie ten Boom and her family helped Jewish people escape from the Nazi occupation of Holland during World War II. (Below) Pati Kachel is a professional storyteller who transforms herself into Corrie Ten Boom. Submitted Photos

Long Lake Lutheran Church ELCA Lent Services

Services at 7:17 p.m.• Soup Supper at 5:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday, March 5 • March 12, 19, 26 & April 2, 9 Join us each Sunday for worship, fellowship and education. Worship Service – 8:00 & 9:30 a.m. Education/Sunday School Hour – 9:30 a.m.

ELCA

Blood Drive

Ash Wednesday, March 5

3921 277th Avenue NW, Isanti, MN • 763-444-5315 • www.longlakeluth.org

Sunday Services

8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship

Dinner at 5:30 and Worship at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Lenten Worship

You will be welcomed!

begins March 12 at 5:30 p.m. dinner to follow 19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel West County Road 22 south and Jackson Street For information call 763-434-6117 or visit our website at www.oursaviourslc.org email to: oslc@oursaviourslc.org

19653 Nowthen Boulevard NW, Nowthen, MN 55303 Intersection of CR 5 & 22 For more information call 763-441-1600

www.nowthenalliance.org

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

A Logger’s Life – presented by Anoka County Historical Society Kim Bauer Anoka County Historical Society

Would you want to be a logger in Anoka, circa 1913? Join us at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 at the Johnsville Library, 12461 Oak Park Boulevard NE in Blaine for this interactive program and find out what life would have been like in a logging camp. Learn about the job duties, hours and wages, as well as the daily life of Anoka loggers and their families. After learning the basics, put your new skills to work with a logging inspired craft. Program open to all ages, craft limited to 30 people Contact ACHS at 763-421-0600 or visit AnokaCountyHistory. org.

Spinal Column

Vivian Plummer-Benzick LPTA, Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, St. Francis Physical Therapy

Is that smartphone so smart for your neck? More than likely most of us are playing with brand new electronic toys that we received for Christmas. Most of these toys (tablets, computers, cell phones) are having a negative effect on our posture. Have you been suffering from headaches that are in the back of your neck or behind your eyes? Are you experiencing numbness, burning or tingling down your arm? Do you wake up with a stiff neck in the morning? If you have been experiencing these symptoms or if these symptoms have gotten worse recently, it may be caused from improper posture due to increased use of your electronic devices. Many of us text, play games and even watch movies on our devices without thinking twice about our posture. The increased curve in the spine while our heads are looking down can cause pressure onto the spine and discs. This increased flexion in our necks can cause an acceleration of disc degeneration. A forward head position can also cause increased pressure on the muscles of the neck and cause headaches. Damage to these structures can cause pain between the shoulder blades as well as numbness, tingling or burning.

The fortunate thing about head and neck pain that arises from the use of our portable electronics is that it can be corrected. The quickest correction is to really pay attention to how you are sitting when you are using these devices. Think about sitting up straight in your chair. Make sure you keep your electronic device at eye level. This can be a challenge but if you make an effort to change your position every now and then it will help decrease the stress on your neck. Set your device down on occasion and stretch your neck from side to side, roll your shoulders up, back and down to keep your muscle loose. Studies show 60 percent of adults over the age of 40 have some form of degenerative discs in the neck. Younger adults may be at a higher risk due to their increased use of texting and gaming. Trying a few simple things can make a big difference in helping decrease neck pain, headaches or symptoms like tingling and numbness in your arms. If your symptoms are getting worse or you are not seeing any improvement in pain or headache, consult your primary doctor or schedule an appointment for physical therapy for an assessment of your posture.

Dr. Francis S. Ryan, Dentist

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

Main Street at First Avenue kitty-corner from The Creamery Isanti, Minnesota 55040

Se Habla Español Aqui – Poco.

Telephone

Call

763-753-1277 for an Appointment

Kendall W. Goodian, D.C.

763-444-4063

Chiropractic Orthopedist

Specializing in Sports, Industrial and Auto Accident Injuries

6/12

YMCA Summer Programs Build Character. Build Memories. Have More Fun!

Andover YMCA Community Center 15200 Hanson Boulevard East • Andover, MN 55304

763-230-9622

Kindergarten Power

Children will explore their world in small groups through age and development appropriate activities which will help in preparing for school success. Entering or just completed Kindergarten

Summer Power

Fascinating adventures in a safe, quality childcare program. Fun activities, special themes, exciting field trips, clubs and more keep kids active, engaged and motivated all summer long! 3-, 4- or 5-day options. Grades 1–5 in fall 2014 at Andover YMCA

Summer Uproar

High-spirited adventures result in growth experiences for youth. Preteens and Teens Grades 6–8 in fall 2014.

YMCA Day Camp Guy Robinson

Memorable camping experiences by day, kids come home at night! Canoeing, kayaking, archery, swimming, fort building, crafts, cook outs, climbing, horses and more! Bus transportation available. Ages 4–14

daycampguyrobinson.org

ymcatwincities.org

Register online or in person at any Y branch. You need not be a member to register. The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Classified

Online

By Phone

www.the-courier.org 24-hours-a-day

Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Childcare Andover Licensed Daycare has openings, reasonable rates, Christina 763-258-7282. Stacy's Daycare openings available. Fun environment, licensed, food program, 763-7532225. Nowthen Home Childcare. Fun and loving environment, FT/PT, 6 weeks to 11 years. St. Francis Elementary, nutritious meals, references, licensed, call Melissa 763-213-1021 or tinytotchildcare2006@gmail.com. Kids Country Childcare Center in St. Francis now enrolling. Call 763-753-5010 for more information.

Employment Start your own business today. Total Look Salon & Spa station rental now available. $150/wk. Call Shirley, 763-427-0550.

Fitness Kettlebell, yoga-fit, RIPPED, personal fitness training and nutrition. Call 763-267-2198 or visit our website at www.ascensionft.com.

For Sale 20% of Silpada Jewelry sales donated to North Anoka County Foodshelf, www. mysilpada.com/kristin.genser, 763-441-9197.

Services Overby Painting—experienced, insured, interior, exterior, decks. Call Shawn 612-3635108. PIANO LESSONS—Casual, fun, licensed/ experienced, competitive rates! Carmel 612220-0235. Trustworthy, thorough, detailed person desiring to clean your home or do odd jobs. Call Michelle 763-571-4454. Handyman Services—call Butch at 763300-9869 for plumbing, electrical, masonry and remodeling.

Wanted The St. Francis High School theatre department could use donations of wooden suit hangers, costumes, lumber, latex paint and other building materials and plastic storage bins. Call Glenn at 763-213-1633 or email to: glenn. morehouseolson@isd15.org

In Person

By Mail

Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW St. Francis, MN 55070

4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW

The Courier

Area Meetings & Events ISD 15 SCHOOL Board Meetings: March 10 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m., March 24 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. St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast with the Chamber is March 12 at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in St. Francis, 8:00-9:00 a.m., $3 for breakfast. The next Board of Directors meeting is March 19, 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. Tops Chapter MN #1774 meets every Wed. morning at 9:30 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 us out on Wed. mornings or visit www.tops.org. 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. AA Meets at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m. American Legion Post 622 – St. Francis General membership meets monthly the second Thurs. at 7:00 p.m. All members of the post are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234. American Legion Auxiliary Unit 622 – St. Francis General membership meets monthly on the third Thurs. 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.

Place a Classified Ad with us and the first 10 words are FREE! Deadline for April classified ads is Monday, March 17. A classified form is available online at www.the-courier.org or at The Courier office. Call 763-753-7031 for more information.

763-753-7031

EAST BETHEL SENIORS meet third Thurs. of the month at 2241 221st Avenue NE in East Bethel for business meeting and noon lunch; second Wed. of each month is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon w/potluck at noon; fourth Wed. is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon; Pancake Breakfast is held second Sun. of each month, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Dance the first Fri. of every month, 1:00-4:00 p.m.; each Thurs. is 500 Cards, 1:004:00 p.m.; Cribbage held once a month; call for date/time 763-434-6179. The East Bethel Senior Center is available for rent, call Dennis 763-434-9244. All seniors are welcome to join for only $7 per year. Oak Grove Seniors meet the second and fourth Wed. of the month at noon for 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. 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. Lioness Club — St. Francis meets monthly. First Wed., administrative board and third Wed., 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. 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!

Kids Connection Lead Instructor Kids Connection Instructor The Kids Connection Lead Instructor position is part-time, 2.5 hours per day/200 days per year. $11.00–$13.00 DOQ. Must be 18 years or older to apply. The Kids Connection Instructor position is part-time, 2.5 hours per day/200 days per year. $9.00– $11.00 DOQ. EOE

Oak Grove Lions meet every second and fourth Tues. of each month at 7:00 p.m. adjourning at 8:00 p.m. For more information, call Lion Tim Newell at 763-753-4492 after 6:30 p.m. 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. CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONS CLUB meets bimonthly, first and third Tues., 7:00 p.m., at the Hunters Inn. Call Ruth Larson at 763-434-9423. Lions Club—St. Francis meets three times during the month at the St. Francis American Legion. First Wed. board meeting; second Wed. regular business meeting; fourth Wed. 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 763-753-1205 or visit www.stfrancismn. lionwap.org Does your organization have a meeting or event to advertise? Contact The Courier office at 763-753-7031.

Council & Township Meetings Andover City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. 1685 Crosstown Blvd. NW Andover, MN • 763-755-5100 Bethel City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Thursday 7:00 p.m. 23820 Dewey Street • P.O. Box 64 Bethel, MN • 763-434-4366 Nowthen City Council Meets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. 19800 Nowthen Blvd. NW Anoka, MN • 763-441-1347 East Bethel City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday 7:30 p.m. 2241 • 221st Ave. NE East Bethel, MN • 763-367-7840 Oak Grove City Council Meets 2nd & last Monday 7:00 p.m. 19900 Nightingale St. NW Oak Grove, MN • 763-404-7000 St. Francis City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Monday 6:00 p.m. ISD 15 Central Services Center St. Francis, MN • 763-753-2630 Stanford Town Board Meets 1st Monday 7:00 p.m. Co. Rd. 8 (261st Ave NW) Isanti, MN • 763-444-6370 The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

The origins of Chicago’s “green” river Shades of green are everywhere on St. Patrick’s Day. But arguably no green is more distinctive come Patty’s Day than the green flowing water of the Chicago River, which is dyed green each year in honor of this beloved holiday. A series of natural and manmade rivers and canals with a combined length of 156 miles, the Chicago River runs through the city of Chicago, Illinois, including its center. Today the river is comprised of the Main Stem, North Branch and the South Branch, which gets much of its water from Lake Michigan. The river has long been a center of industrialized operations, helping to foster trade to Illinois and other areas of the midwest. The Chicago River is also a tourist destination that takes on a new persona each season in late winter, when it becomes “green” and serves as the centerpiece of St. Patrick’s Day festivities in the Windy City. On the weekend closest to

St. Patrick’s Day, workers add 40 pounds of powdered green vegetable dye into the water to turn the river green. The dye takes some time to dissipate, but eventually the river runs green in honor of St. Patrick. Dyeing the river green has been a tradition for more than 40 years and it’s a tradition that actually arose out of a fluke discovery. In 1961, Stephen Bailey was speaking with a fellow plumber and noticed the plumber’s white coveralls were stained Kelly green. Bailey inquired as to how the coveralls got so green and it was discovered that a fluorescein dye used to detect trace sources of illegal pollution being discarded into the river water was responsible. Bailey wondered if this dyeing of the water could become an annual tradition in honor of St. Patrick’s Day and set forth a plan to achieve just that. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has since outlawed the use of fluorescein for this purpose, since it has been

shown to be harmful. Now the St. Patrick’s Day Parade committee uses the vegetable dye, which is believed to be much safer. Because of connecting waterways, it is feasible that the green water of the Chicago River can flow into the Illinois River, to the Mississippi River, then out into the Atlantic gulf stream and finally to the Irish sea. While it is unlikely the green hue would remain, perhaps with some leprechaun magic, a green water highway could truly connect Chicago to Ireland. Various cities have tried to emulate the green river, but have not been able to achieve the same, vibrant green as Chicago. The dye mixture is a closely guarded secret. In 2009, First Lady Michelle Obama, a Chicago native, requested that the White House fountains be dyed green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and perhaps bring a touch of home to Washington, D.C. Source: MetroCreative Graphic Editorial

Residents of Chicago, Illinois see green in their city each St. Patrick’s Day, when the Chicago River is dyed green Internet Photo

Gentle Individualized Personal Care

Johnson Family Chiropractic

Dr. Mary J. Johnson

763-753-3126 Acupuncture Available with Rachel Nudd, L.Ac., D.O.M.

612-516-4386

All major insurance accepted 23624 St. Francis Blvd. (Hwy. 47) Suite 1 St. Francis, MN

East Bethel Senior Events Senior Dance Have fun dancing with us! Dances are 1:00-4:00 p.m. Old time music will be played by Jerry Bierschbach on Friday, March 7. Entertainment for the April 4 dance is Jim Armstrong The cost is $5 and includes lunch. Pancake Breakfast The East Bethel Seniors will not be holding their Pancake Breakfast during the month of March. Events are held at the East Bethel Senior Center located one mile east of Highway 65 on 221st Avenue in East Bethel.

how can you Ask Fido, offer such low prices Fido: for top quality grooming? ”Easy, no expensive storefront so our savings are passed on to our customers.”

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We care for St. Francis! When it comes to your health, you don’t want to wait for an appointment to see a doctor. At Fairview Clinics – St. Francis we get it! We’re making it easier than ever to get the care you need—when you need it. Fairview Clinics – St. Francis is located at 23671 St. Francis Blvd., St. Francis.

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and EveningReserve Appointments Going Day on vacation? you pet’s stay now. The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Living Stories: World War II

Fitness Matters

Melissa Enzler St. Francis Anytime Fitness, Owner

Question I’ve been a yoyo dieter for the past few years and for some reason, whenever I re-commit and start a new exercise program, I always seem to gain a little weight before the actual weight loss process begins. Can you explain this? Answer Yes, this is actually a pretty common phenomenon, but one that most people simply aren’t aware of and one that should never deter you from starting to exercise. When a sedentary or somewhat inactive individual starts an exercise program, several changes occur in the body to respond to this new exercise stimulus. The sum of these changes can add

a bit to the scale, despite your hopes for the exact opposite. First of all, the muscles can increase in size and the added protein in the muscle actually stores additional water. The body will also start to store more sugar in the muscles and again, water storage plays a role here as well. Several enzymes that process oxygen will also increase in quantity within the muscle cells. Connective tissues will toughen and thicken and your total blood volume can increase by up to one pound within a week. Sounded like it would add up to more than one pound didn’t it? All of this better prepares your body for more frequent exercise bouts and helps

2014 Goal 682

Tons

45 Tons

Recycled in January St. Francis recycled 533 tons in 2013. 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

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to improve your workout efficiency. At this point, you’re probably wondering what can be done to mitigate these effects? The answer is not much. The key is to be consistent with your workouts and avoid the scale if you’re likely to get discouraged by what you see. This is a great time to have a workout partner or personal trainer to motivate you to continue. It’s important to remember that this is simply your body adapting to exercise. The scale is not your best gauge of progress considering the above info and that muscle weighs more than fat. If you have a trainer, they will give you fit tests to gauge your progress—much more motivating than the scale. You get health benefits quickly and then the reflection in your mirror begins to change. Believe me, your weight will trend down in the long run as you continue your program. Don’t forget the old adage— good things come to those who wait!

Jill Smith Anoka County Library

Anoka County Library invites you to see what life was like for Army infantry soldiers during World War II. The 117th 30th Division Historical Reenactor unit will be displaying items that the US Army infantry soldier would see and use in the field and will share their in-depth knowledge of World War II with visitors. This interactive, self-paced program will be at Rum River Library, 4201 6th Avenue in Anoka on Saturday, March 8 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. “It’s hard to imagine the circumstances and hardships faced by our military in its early years but this is a rare opportunity to get a better understanding of their service and sacrifice that’s truly unforgettable,” said Anoka County Commissioner Scott Schulte. Visitors will see displays of equipment, rations and the different uniforms used. You can even meet a reenactor playing the role of General Omar Bradley. Visitors are encouraged to talk with the soldiers to learn more about the life of an infantry soldier during World War II. “Come to share your story, ask a question, or explore the artifacts on display,” said Library Board President Bob Thistle. “Let’s honor the contributions of the Greatest Generation by learning more about their lives.” Living Stories: World War II is presented by the 117th 30th Division Historical Reenactors and is sponsored by the Anoka County Library. This program is free and open to the public; and funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. For more information about this and other library programs call 763-712-2322 or visit the website at anokacountylibrary.org.

”We treat your pets like our own”

St. Francis Veterinary Clinic 763-444-9359

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

• Small animal medicine, surgery and dentistry • Free initial puppy and kitten exams • Early morning drop off available by appointment • Evening appointments • Heartworm and Lyme testing • Microchip pet ID

Two miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47 Visit us on the web at www.sfvetclinic.com

Oak Ridge Auto Body Inc. 23428 Hwy. 65 NE 2 Blks. S of CR 24 on Hwy. 65

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

Recommended by insurance companies Ask about a free loaner car • Owners John and Lori Buchta Friendly and dependable service

Living Hope Join us Sundays 9am & 11am Living Hope Ministry Center West of St. Francis High School on Rum River Blvd Children’s, Youth, & Adult Ministries Living Hope EFC.org 763.753.1718

Women in the Civil War Tim Mahon Anoka County Historical Society

Learn about the role of women in the Civil War on Thursday, March 6, 7:00 p.m., at the Chomonix Golf Course Club House in Lino Lakes as part of the Anoka County Historical Society’s Civil War Lecture Series. The War Between the States may have been fought by great armies of men, but women filled many vital roles in society and even in the military. Women such as Clara Barton and Dorothea Dix immediately come to mind, but what about Minnesota’s women? This program highlights the incredible stories of Minnesota women who protected their homes, supported their soldiers, served the army in many different ways and kept the home fires burning throughout the four years of the Civil War. Some were dedicated enough to continue working for veterans even after the war. Their stories, long overlooked and forgotten, bring a new perspective to the history of America’s most bloody war.

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

Master Gardener

Carol bray Isanti county master gardener

Quack grass or crabgrass? One thing everyone knows about quack grass and crabgrass is that they are pests. What is the difference between these grasses? Both grasses blend in with turf grass but can be distinguished by their looks. Crabgrass tends to be shorter and more spread out, often re-rooting its stems in the ground. It tends to be seen in tell-tale patches across a lawn. Quack grass’s distinction is that it grows much taller than crabgrass. Another distinction between the two weeds is the makeup of their root systems. Crabgrass has weaker roots than quack grass, which consist of tough rhizomes, white, fleshy roots that branch away from the primary plant to create new ones. This gives quack grass a much tougher root network than crabgrass. If it comes out in a solid chunk

rather than in pieces, that probably indicates crabgrass rather than quack grass. Also, crabgrass seed heads are branched while quack grass seed heads are solitary, straight stems. Quack grass is a perennial and a member of the Barley Tribe. Native in Europe, it appeared in Connecticut about 1750. It will go dormant in winter, just as turf grass does. It is more difficult to eradicate because only non-selective herbicides can kill it. Still, it does leave seeds behind in fall as crabgrass does. It is now designated by law as a noxious weed. Quack grass sends up long slender stems with flat narrow leaves and is sometimes mistaken for timothy. The seed head, however, is more like that of wheat and it sends out long underground runners with knot-like joints. Branches develop at many of the joints

and those may branch again. At any joint, fibrous roots may develop and a leafy stem push up through the ground to become another plant. Thus it spreads both by its seeds and its root stocks, even when they are chopped up by a farm implement, each joint left in the soil may sprout roots and grow. Crabgrass, an annual and a member of the Millet-Tribe, another European plant that has become one of the worst pests. Crabgrass seeds can survive the winter and germinate come spring. It spreads not only from its seeds but also from its branching stems which sprawl on the ground and take root at the joints. Pre-emergent herbicides work for getting rid of crabgrass and help to get rid of quack grass. Join the Isanti County Master Gardeners for a day of learning and fun at our horticultural education day— Burst into Spring. For more information on this event, visit Isanti County Master Gardeners website at http:// isanticountymastergardeners. com. More Master Gardener information at University of Minnesota Extension website at www.extension.umn.edu or call the Isanti County Master Gardeners at 763-689-8254. You can also visit the Isanti County Master Gardeners on Facebook.

Hennepin County Medical Center offering $99 lung cancer screenings Christine Hill Senior Media Relations Specialist, Hennepin County Medical Center

Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) is offering $99 lung cancer screening for people who may be concerned that they are at risk for the disease. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancerrelated death in the USA and it kills more patients every year than breast, prostate and colon cancer combined. “We know that by the time lung cancer causes symptoms like cough and chest pain, it’s usually advanced and has spread to other organs,” explains radiologist Dr. Gopal Punjabi. “For years, there has been tremendous interest in catching lung cancer early, so this test is a very important development.” If you’re between the ages of 55 and 79 and you smoked for more than 30 years, or you quit less than 15 years ago, you may be eligible for this lowcost, low-dose CT scan. A doctor’s order is not required; however, patients should discuss this test with their doctor. If they do not have a primary care provider, they can call 612-873-2065 and the CT scan can be ordered after making sure the criteria is met. It’s a simple scan— taking around five seconds—that does not require an intravenous (IV) contrast. A radiologist reviews the scan right away and realtime results are available to patients if they don’t want to wait. It is quite common (25-40 percent) to find small nodules, most of which will not be cancer. Follow-up recommendations are made for patients if nodules are found and if none are found, patients are encouraged to receive annual scans until age 80 or if they have not smoked for 15 years. This specific type of CT scan uses low-dose imaging and can only detect lung nodules. If a nodule is found, follow up care can be covered by the patient’s insurance plan. “We can scan you, but there’s no health benefit if you don’t quit smoking,” says Dr. Punjabi. ”Quitting smoking is the best way to decrease the risk for developing lung cancer.” For those patients who need help with smoking cessation, HCMC also offers counseling, treatment and referral services. Call HCMC’s Radiology Department at 612-873-2065 for more information about this low-cost, low-dose CT scan for lung cancer. The test is currently not covered by insurance and will cost $99. For more information, go to hcmc.org.

Crabgrass in your lawn can be identified by its wider blade. Photo by Aaron J. Patton

Going on vacation?

Dr. Paul Schaus, D.D.S.

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In the

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The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org

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New Patients Welcome! 35

Small town, bold music during all-district band concert Mackenzie Goedel SFMS 7th grade band student

St. Francis Middle School and St. Francis High School band students made music together at the alldistrict band concert on January 26. This year’s theme was animals but a few supernatural creatures showed up too. Submitted Photos

Some people say music is life and we can’t live without it. Well, band students applied it at the all-district band concert January 26. They played like there was no tomorrow. St. Francis Middle School and St. Francis High School bands joined as one, all playing for each other in the high school gymnasium. This year’s theme was animals and maybe some zombies joined as well. Every grade level played at least two songs. Sixth grade band brought the dead back to life and used light sabers in Dance of the Jabberwocky and Zombie Stomp. Seventh graders played jazzy and scary songs. Have your dust bunnies ever scared you? Well, in Revenge of the Dust Bunnies they literally popped out at the audience during the song. The audience went crazy when a vacuum came out and saved the day in Revenge of the Dust Bunnies. Seventh graders Jake Deibert and Coyn Goyhl did a slow-motion dance and “cleaned” up during the song. Have you ever also gone a little too fast on your sleigh ride? When the audience listened to the 7th grade’s Runaway Sleigh, the “horses” got a little upbeat and started to take off and

Exhibitors & Food Vendors

get a bit skittish within the music’s theme. Eighth grade band was on safari in their songs. The adventurous song of the Safari had alligators jumping onto boats or lions taking a deer down. The high school played some fantasy songs such as Dragon’s Lair. They also got a little bold when tubas came out and had a solo song as well. These performers took weeks, maybe months, to learn these songs. Some people said they would go again next year to see what’s in store. Amber Hoyt, a seventh grade B-flat clarinet player said, “I feel that they did awesome. Everybody put a lot of hard work and effort to play as best as possible for the audience.” Jacquie Goedel, a family member of a seventh and sixth grade player said,”I loved when seventh graders used their imagination and threw feathers and puff balls at the audience to support the dust bunny scare song.” The band teachers are proud of all the student’s hard work. Danielle Trebesch, Lora Ukaegbu, Heidi Stodola and Chad Armbruster agreed they “love their jobs because they learn something new every day.” The band students looked like they had fun and were out of breath. Next year, go see the all-district band concert because it’s the best music and it will blow your mind!

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Saturday, April 26 • 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Food & Fun St. Francis High School Co-Sponsored by the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce and Independent School District 15 Community Education

The Courier | March 2014 | www.the-courier.org