The Courier March 2015 | Volume 22, Issue 8
FREE
a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education | St. Francis, Minnesota Serving the communities of Athens Township, Andover, Bethel, East Bethel, Linwood Township, Nowthen, Oak Grove, St. Francis and Stanford Township
www.the-courier.org | news@isd15.org
McLean named Social Studies Teacher of the Year Steve Fetzik SFHS Community Relations Coordinator
Tim McLean, a social studies teacher at St. Francis High School (SFHS), has been named this year’s High School Teacher of the Year by the Minnesota Council for the Social Studies (MCSS). The honor was presented by Council at its annual event February 22 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center. “It is my pleasure to share the news that Tim McLean has been chosen as the 2015 High School Teacher of the Year by the Minnesota Council for the Social Studies,” announced Bo Stevens, a recently retired SFHS social studies teacher. “This is a well-deserved honor that takes into account the countless hours that Tim has dedicated to students and his passion for teaching social studies,” said SFHS principal Doug Austin. According to the MCSS selection committee, “Our awards committee was impressed with McLean’s dedication to his students, excellence in teaching social studies content and his impact on colleagues. The Council is always humbled by the strength and dedication of the social studies teachers in Minnesota. Thank you, Tim McLean, for doing your part in creating a school and district environment that supports excellence in social studies education!” “I will never look at the award without reflecting on the thousands of kids that I have been privileged to teach St. Francis High School social studies and the hundreds of staff that I have teacher, Tim McLean, was recently been privileged to work with. Love named the High School Teacher of the ya, St. Francis High School,” reflected Year. Photo by Steve Fetzik, SFHS McLean.
The Early Childhood Advisory Council Family Carnival was held February 7 at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove. Children used a variety of carnival props to capture the fun. Lots of clowns, balloons and smiles were evident, marking another great success. See page 13 for more information regarding the early childhood programs in Independent School District 15. Submitted photo
Independent School District 15 sets course to balance budget Paul Neubauer ISD 15 Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Balancing the budget for the 2015-16 fiscal year will require a deliberate look at all of Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) functions to find ways to generate revenue, operate more efficiently and reduce expenditures. In order to accomplish this, district administration has developed a process to involve stakeholders, keep constituents informed and make decisions that are sound for the district while maintaining programming for students. The annual budget process begins in October for the following year’s budget. At that time, enrollment projections for the coming year are made, budget priorities are established and communications begin. The district cabinet utilizes a software program
to establish and estimate ISD 15 enrollment for the upcoming year. Much of the projection model is based on the number of births that take place in the district’s counties (Anoka and Isanti). Fewer children born means a lower number of students who will potentially enter our school system. The higher the number of births, the greater the number of students who will potentially enter our school system. In the past several years, the county birth rate has dropped significantly, causing fewer students to enter kindergarten while larger class sizes are graduating. ISD 15 is projecting a decrease in enrollment of 123 students for school year 2015-16. That, coupled with increases in the cost of doing business, results in a $2.74M budget adjustment. District administrators will set the course, process and timelines for adjustments to be made. District administrators will propose
adjustments based on district priorities and will include those adjustments prior to sending information to the sites. Administrators have been meeting with site principals to work through areas where we could possibly operate more efficiently, as well as anticipate class size, establish site needs and set a course for adjusting the budget. Principals have been very involved and always bring a level of concern for the well-being of our students to the forefront. In addition to working with site leadership, there is a role for each school’s Site Management Council (SMC) to play. Once the SMC is given their site’s reduction amount, they begin to develop the areas for reduction and work with their administration to develop a plan. In a global sense, the SMC’s role is to make decisions by representative groups who are most directly affected by the decision.
Once there is a viable concept and plan for adjustment, the ISD 15 School Board becomes involved and assists administration and provides guidance relative to the proposed plan. Early on, this information is more general in nature. As we persist through the process, we are able to add more specificity to this plan and ultimately will propose a plan to the school board for final action. Continued Page 10
What’s Inside Schools in Action.................................................. 2 School Board Highlights................................10 Community Education....................................12 Community & Business...................................15 Sports & Outdoors.............................................26 Life...............................................................................31 Meetings, Events & Benefits.........................32
Schools in Action St. Francis Middle School commits to conference activities Troy Ferguson ISD 15 Acting Superintendent
On February 17, the St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) Site Management Council (SMC)
approved a commitment to reinstate school-sponsored and Mississippi 8 Conference activities to SFMS. It has been over ten years since SFMS has had school-sponsored activities. During those years, Community Education’s Rec and Districtwide Youth Activities Departments have done an outstanding job providing athletic and enrichment activities to middle school students. The managers, instructors, coaches and volunteers involved in developing and running our high quality community
Get the
DENTS Out!
Have questions? Stop in and talk to Joe.
23615 Highway 47 St. Francis (Next to Fairview Clinic)
School Board Highlights Community Education
Flowers make people feel happy! Elaine’s Flowers & Gifts II www.elainesflowersandgifts.net
763-753-6116
303 Credit Union Drive in Isanti
www.sfcollision.com
We work with ALL insurance companies!
Free loaner car or rental cars available
Free estimates No appointment necessary
• Full service auto body and paint, light mechanical work • 100% customer satisfaction guaranteed • Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. or by appointment
famil - PRESENTS
education programs to find competitors and schedule events. The plan is to secure an activities director (AD) this spring. Initially, the AD position will be part-time, but as programs and responsibilities grow, the position may also. The AD will research and map a course of action to implement the return of schoolsponsored activities over the next several years. This will be done in conjunction with middle school administration, staff and the SMC. In addition, the AD will work with the high school AD, coaches, booster clubs, Community
education programs are to be commended for their work and dedication to students. With the move to the Minnesota State High School League Mississippi 8 Conference, there has been a strong interest in returning activities/athletics to the middle school. Currently, Independent School District 15 is the only district in the Mississippi 8 Conference that does not have students and teams participating in conference events at the middle school level. Conference rules prohibit any school team not sponsored from competing in events, making it difficult for the community
763.444.4022
March into spring with a beauty bundle!
-
PAGE 12
Education and the community to ensure cooperative, quality programming. It will not be possible to add back a full slate of enrichment activities and athletics in one year, but we believe it is time for the district to begin the journey. Interest from numerous stakeholder groups has greatly increased. For the 2015-16 school year, the goal is to implement at least one conference enrichment activity and one athletic activity at SFMS, with a plan to add more conference activities as interest, support, space and funding allow. It is important to note that the phase-in of middle school conference activities will not replace community education programming. Community Education will continue to provide high quality youth recreation and enrichment opportunities for students, families and the community. We believe this plan will provide a long-term, sustainable middle school activities program that will offer many positive opportunities for students.
o mpo a h S p Dee ning o yle diti Con t & St x Wa r Cu Hai ebrow herapy Ey Wax T 0 0 n affi r $ a P
5 5 y Onl
. 7.00 is $8 pons or u rice o P c r r e th ula . Reg ith any o t stylists selec alid w Not v ers. With /30/15. 550 off res 4 63.427.0 Expi •7 ook L l Tota
14029 Round Lake Blvd. NW Andover THE
PAGE 10
763-427-0550 Book your appointment today M-Th 9 am-8 pm • Fri 9 am-6 pm • Sat 9 am-5 pm
18 Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt - Free th
17th Annual
Saturday, March 28 - 9:30 am until Noon (Registration - 9:15 am)
FREE
Admission Program starts at 9:30 • Petting Zoo • Magician Kenny Dew-it • Bring your camera for pictures with the Easter Bunny! Worship with us on Easter Sunday, April 5 7:00, 8:45 and 10:30 a.m.
1/4 mile west of Highway 65 on Constance Blvd., (CR 20/60) 16345 Polk Street NE – Ham Lake, MN 55304 – 763.434.7337 – www.foclutheran.org
2
www.NorthSuburbanHomeShow.org Featuring nearly 100 home improvement and remodeling exhibitors with products and services related to home improvements and gardening. Over 1,800 area residents visited the show last year. Don’t miss out! Free Kids Workshops The first 200 children accompanied by their parents will have the opportunity to build a wooden project. Kids Workshop sponsored by,
North Suburban Home Improvement Show Saturday, March 21 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Andover YMCA Community Center
15200 Hanson Boulevard, Andover (Crosstown & Hanson)
itors 100+ Exhib it C and y tives Representa
Power Tool
tration Prize Demons Drawings
609 Cub Scout Pack g food in pt ce ac tions na do f el sh C CB A e th r fo f el Sh d o Fo
The North Suburban Home Improvement Show is sponsored by the cities of Andover, Anoka and Coon Rapids; Anoka County and the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce. The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Newbery Book Club
year the live program was in Chicago which allowed students to come in early to school at 8:00 a.m. to watch the awards presentation and enjoy a light breakfast. Students were excited to hear the titles they had read win a variety of awards. This year’s Newbery Medal was awarded to Kwame Alexander for Crossover, a
Hannah Pagel SFES Community Relations Coordinator
For the second year, students in Jodine Casello’s 5th grade class have been invited to participate in a Newbery Book Club. This reading club selects books that are on the shortlist to win the Newbery Medal for that publishing year. From the American Library Association website, “Each year the American Library Association honors books, videos and other outstanding materials for children and teens. Recognized worldwide for the high quality they represent, the ALA Youth Media Awards, including the prestigious Newbery, Caldecott, Printz and Coretta Scott King Book Awards, guide parents, educators, librarians
Pictured are Jodine Casello’s St. Francis Elementary School 5th graders who formed this year’s Newbery Book Club. Submitted Photo and others in selecting the best materials for youth. Selected by committees composed of librarians and other literature and media experts, the awards encourage original and creative work in the field of children’s and young adult literature and media.” The John Newbery Medal is given “to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American
literature for children.” Students read a minimum of two books a month during December and January. Then the students met twice a month to discuss the books with Casello and Cathy Paquay, SFES reading specialist. The award winners are announced in early February in a live webcast of the Youth Media Awards by the American Library Association. This
Calling all Jumpers! 13th Annual
brilliant story about family and the love of basketball written in poetry form. It was one of the books discussed by the club as being a definite contender to win the Newbery this year and the committee agreed! Students truly enjoyed reading and discussing some of the same books, building their excitement for the awards announcements.
Waggin’ Tails Ranch Pet Boarding
• Family owned since 2000 • Heated & air conditioned building • No charge to administer medications • Outdoor play areas • Multiple pet boarding discount • Military and Senior discount • Open 7 days a week Elk River Pet Boarding Kennel: waggintails-ranch.com
763-241-3883 6963 207th Avenue NW, Elk River, MN
Jason M. Semler
REALTOR®, CRS, GRI, CDPE, CIAS, SFR, e-PRO, BPOR
Presented by Diamond Sponsors:
612-282-8233 www.agentsemler.com • Full service real estate broker • Seller and buyer representation • Free market analysis
Be brave and support
community programs.
Time to move?
• A minimum $100 (by donation or sponsors) is your ticket to jump into Long Lake. Sign-up as late as the day of the event. • Friday Night Pre-Party all jumpers who register on Friday will be entered in a drawing for Wild tickets in KQRS Suite at Xcel. • Cash prizes for the top 3 costumes.
Saturday, March 7 Friday Pre-Party
Considering new construction? Check out award winning local builder “Delivering the Quality You Expect and Deserve Semler Homes, Inc. Since 1981” www.semlerhomes.com BC#0003649 Free estimates given.
Long Lake – Isanti, MN
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Platinum Sponsors:
• 5:00-7:00 p.m. Registration • 4:00-7:00 p.m. Chili Feed, proceeds donated to Isanti County Beyond the Yellow Ribbon • 8:00 p.m. Live Band Pull Start Diesel • Drawing for Guest Judge
Saturday The Plunge
www.stfrancisdentalcare.com Gold Sponsors:
Cambridge Metals and Plastics Chucks Portable Toilets • 1:00 p.m. Old Fashioned Ice Cutting Englund Family • 2:00 p.m. The Arctic Plunge Hass Septic Cleaning LLC Leaf’s Towing & Recovery • Helicopter Rides all day Metro Tent Rental • 8:00 p.m. Live Band Our Famous Friends St. Francis Lions
Silver Sponsors: Beef ‘O’ Brady’s
Isanti Ready Mix
East Central Sanitation
Isanti Rental
Hayford Ford
Isanti Retail Meats
Heat Mizer Glass
Isanti Subway
Isanti Electric Inc
Polaris Industries
www.arcticplunge.com
for more information and registration The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
• Free home buyer consultation • Licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin
3715 Bridge Street St. Francis, MN 55070
763-753-1900
Dr. Kurt Huether DDS Dr. Amy Dahlgren DDS Providers for Delta Premier, Health Partners, Assurant and others. Call for details.
Ask about our $ 150 Bleach special. 3
Marshmallow catapult design and fling competition Shirley Meyers CCCS 5th Grade Teacher
Students in Shirley Meyers’ 5th grade class were invited to
enter a catapult competition as part of the simple machines
We welcome you to St. Patrick’s Lenten All-YouCan-Eat Fish Fry!
St. Patrick Catholic Church 19921 Nightingale Street NW Oak Grove, MN 55011 763-753-2011 • www.st-patricks.org
Weekend Masses
Saturday at 5:00 p.m., Rosary at 4:30 p.m. Sunday at 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Rosary at 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.
Stations of the Cross Fridays at 7:00 p.m.
unit. The task was to use the engineering design process to come up with a catapult that would fling a marshmallow the greatest distance. Students
February 27; March 6,13, 20, 27 5:00-6:45 p.m.
A pasta alternative is provided for those who prefer. Both are served with homemade coleslaw, veggies, bun and amazing desserts! Adults $9 (16 and up); Kids $4 (ages 7-15); 6 and under Free For more information, please call 763-753-2011.
were given two trials with the option to redesign in the minutes between trials. It was amazing to see the creative design choices by the different competitors. Students did a great job of problem solving when the first attempt did not go as planned. The top three winners were Owen Young, Makenzie Bernard and Wesley Kauppi. Owen Young is getting ready to launch his marshmallow. His design proved to have the best distance for marshmallow flinging.
Lifetime Guarantee – 100% Customer Satisfaction!
Collision 2000 The collision
Fender Bender Specialists
repair shop you can trust.
3345 Viking Blvd. Oak Grove 763-753-0002 Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Saturday by Appointment County Road 22 County Road 9
★
Free Loaner Car
while we do the work on yours • Free Estimates • Collision Repair
100 Off $ 50 Off
$
Any repair over $1,000
Any repair over $500
• All Insurance Companies • Paintless Dent Removal • Computerized Color Matching • Customs/Restorations
Coupon must be presented before repair is started. Not to be combined with other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. Expires: 3/31/15. Collision 2000 Oak Grove 763-753-0002
Important: Minnesota State Insurance Law states that you have a right to have your vehicle repaired in the shop of your choice.
Like us on Facebook
New Items! Daily
Shirley Meyers, CCCS 5th Grade Teacher
Dr. Paul Schaus, D.D.S. We provide high-quality, personalized care in a comfortable setting. Oak Grove Crossing 3154 Viking Boulevard NW Oak Grove Call Today! 763-753-5336
Always Welcoming New Patients!
There is only one month left to safely trim oaks and elms without causing damage to the tree.
Meet with a specialist for a FREE estimate.
3210 Bridge Street NW • St. Francis 55070 Expanding Clothing Area
25% discount
Color Tag Sale!
25% 50% 75% Sunday Monday Tuesday
4
Wednesday Senior Day (55 & older) Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Saturday 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Sunday Noon-6:00 p.m.
Your hometown tree care service you can trust. 20+ Years Experience! Certified Tree Inspector Licensed • Insured Bonded
Mack Tree —incorporated—
EE FEsR timates!
763-856-5432 or macktree@sherbtel.net Pruning, removals, lot clearings, stump grinding. Specializing in winter Oak and Elm pruning. Call for all your tree trimming needs and dangerous removals.
— www.macktreeinc.com — The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Transportation Department goes green with propane Jeremy Bolles ISD 15 Transportation Route Specialist
On May 12, 2014 a new day dawned at the Independent School District 15 Transportation Department. A brand new 77-passenger bus drove into the lot, the likes of which had never been seen before in Minnesota. Not only did this bus look different, it featured a modern engine with cutting-edge technology and a unique green fuel. This Freightliner Saf-T-Liner® C2 Propane bus is completely different than the majority of the current ISD 15 fleet consisting of Freightliner FS65 buses with body styles that date back to 1972 and chassis circa 1995. This bus was completely redesigned in 2004, which, according to Thomas Built Buses, “completely redefined the Type C category.” Contrasted with the old standard boxy bus style, this bus features a distinctive large, raked windshield, sloping hood and fared in turn signals and headlights that not only provide less wind resistance and improve visual appearance, but these features also greatly enhance visibility and safety for students and drivers. While there are many other features too numerous to mention, one significant improvement is a five-inch increase in interior head room to 78 inches and 33.3
inch high windows that combine to give the passengers an open atmosphere. Carol Patchen, the veteran driver of Bus 20 and with many years of experience driving multiple styles of buses over the years, is absolutely thrilled with her new ride. “There is no comparison to other buses,” she says. “The vision is so much better with this design. I can see so much more in front of me, the windshield stays clear, the headlights are really bright and it heats better compared to other buses. With the higher seats, it is safer for the students and the designers finally got one thing right: there is a heater on the steps so there is no ice build-up.” Patchen added, “It is very comfortable to drive and it’s so quiet. Being vertically challenged at four feet nine inches, this bus adjusts to my needs with adjustable pedals and steering wheel, a heated seat and an air door.” The most outstanding feature of this new bus is its unique fuel. The 8.0L V-8 LPG engine has a liquid propane injection system which made this bus the first Thomas full-sized propane bus in the state of Minnesota. This cheap, abundant, clean and powerful fuel completely changes the traditional bus driving and riding experience. Along with our two other small propane buses (Special Ed. 2 and 3), this bus is more
Independent School District 15 Transportation Department accepted its first delivery of a propane bus last May. Courier Photo
efficient, easier to start (not requiring a plug-in), warmer in the winter, easier to maintain and cleaner for the environment than our diesel-fueled buses. Unlike earlier leaky propane systems, which used fumes, the fuel is kept liquid until needed. Injected into the cylinders as a cold compressed liquid, the fuel gasifies instantly, combusts fully and exhausts cleanly and quietly, leaving behind only water vapor and carbon dioxide, gases plants love. Because propane is different than gasoline or diesel, some may have reservations about this fuel that is commonly used in furnaces, water heaters and RVs. Patchen commented, “I had a fear of propane, but I conquered my fear. Fueling the bus with propane is safe and easy. It is an awesome bus to drive and very quiet. And there are no complaints from the students. The only complaint I have is, ’Could you turn the heat down, please?’ Having powered and heated everything from RVs to forklifts to big rigs for many years, propane has been proven as a safe
transportation fuel.” Not only is this super fuel powerful and clean, propane is also more costeffective than diesel. According to Thomas Built Buses, “Propane is the world’s most popular clean-burning alternative fuel. In North America we have an abundant domestic supply. And it’s about 40 percent less expensive than a gallon of gasoline or diesel on a BTU basis.” Currently, we are able to obtain propane for $1.12/gallon. Because of the numerous advantages and availability of this fuel, Steve Tharp, shop foreman, announced, “My goal is to have our diesel fleet replaced with propane buses within three years.” Transportation Program Supervisor Dean Krause added, “Look for a large percentage of the fleet changed over by this August.” The future of student transportation is right here in ISD 15. This Freightliner Saf-T-Liner® C2 Propane bus is leading the way into a more cost-effective, cleaner and safer student riding experience for generations to come.
Paying for school meals Wendy Klobe Program Supervisor, ISD 15 Nutrition Services
Parents have many options for paying for school meals. Credit/debit card and check options are recommended. Our student meal accountability software offers www.paypams.com where parents can pay by credit card for meals. Additionally, Fee Pay offers credit/debit card payments for meals. There is one change some parents will notice due to the transition from the Ties system to Infinite Campus, as the Fee Pay portal link location will change. An email message will be sent to parents that use the Fee Pay tab, which is located after logging in to SchoolView, that the link to the portal will be moved to https://district15.feepay.com. The link will also be featured on our Nutrition Services website at www.isd15.org/nutrition. As always, parents continue to have the option to send a check for payment. Sending cash is at your own risk; we cannot be responsible for lost or misplaced cash.
Combining traditional values with cutting edge technology. Buy with confidence, Sell with success!
Cassie Clem Realtor®
612-213-9403 clemhomes@gmail.com www.cassieclem@kwrealty.com
Are you paying too much for auto insurance?
American Star Certified Agency Excellence in Customer Experience 3747 Bridge Street NW St. Francis, Minnesota 763-753-9268 mdresc1@amfam.com
American Family rates are more competitive than you might think. Call me today to find out.
American Family Mutual Insurance Company and its Subsidiaries Home Office –Madison, WI 53783 amfam.com ©2012
13855 Round Lake Boulevard VSP Provider Andover
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated.
Nip Allergies
in the Bud
002098 – Rev. 11/12
763-421-0141
1740 116th Avenue NW, Suite 100, Coon Rapids, MN 55448
Mary L. Dresch Agency
Amanda Stoltman O.D. Mon, Thurs, Fri
Jeff Smith O.D.
8:30-5:30 Tues, Wed 8:30-8:00
Goodrich Pharmacy Andover................763-434-1901
We have solutions for every sniffle, sneeze, cough, itch or wheeze.
St. Francis............763-753-0222
Questions? Ask our friendly pharmacists. Prescriptions filled while you wait.
Blaine....................763-717-0222 Fridley .................763-780-0222
Easy Prescription Transfers
www.goodrichpharmacy.com
Hours: M-F 9 am-8 pm; Sat 9 am-3 pm
Anoka...................763-421-5540 Elk River..............763-441-0764
5
Students bolster brainpower with school breakfast ISD 15 schools recognize National School Breakfast Week Wendy Klobe ISD 15 Nutrition Services Program Supervisor
Students who eat breakfast at school start the day ready to learn—reflected in higher test scores and better classroom behavior. However, only half of the students who eat lunch at school also eat school breakfast, according to the Food Research and Action Council. To garner increased participation in the school breakfast program, Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) will recognize National School Breakfast Week. Slated for March 2-6, National School Breakfast Week is aimed at increasing awareness of the school breakfast program among students and parents. Although ISD 15 students are on spring break March 4-6, we are reminded that every school day, the breakfast program offers students a healthy breakfast they need to get set for a busy school day. Breakfast at school features whole grains, fruits, 100 percent fruit juice and milk. Students may use their meal account to pay for breakfast. Elementary student breakfast is $1.35 and secondary student breakfast is $1.45. Because of special state funding, kindergarten student breakfast is free. Every school breakfast served meets federal nutrition standards limiting fat, calories and sodium. The 2015 National School Breakfast Week theme, “Make the Grade with School Breakfast,” reminds everyone in the school community—parents, students, administrators—that a healthy school breakfast sets students up for a day of learning and academic success. “Too many children are showing up at school hungry and we know hungry children can’t learn,” said Wendy Klobe, ISD 15 Nutrition Services program supervisor. “A healthy breakfast helps students focus in the classroom and perform better. That’s why we offer a healthy breakfast every morning in our schools.” “Make the Grade with School Breakfast” program was created by the non-profit School Nutrition Association with support from Kellogg’s Foodservice. National School Breakfast Week was launched in 1989 to raise awareness of the availability of the school breakfast program to all students and to promote links between eating a good breakfast, academic achievement and healthy lifestyles. Source: School Nutrition Association
Driver’s
Education
at St. Francis High School
STEM summit attracts many area students Carline Sargent Multicultural/Diversity and Indian Homeschool Liaison
Sixty-two students from St. Francis Middle School and St. Francis High School attended the 7th Annual STEM Summit at St. Cloud State University along with 1,500 middle and high school students from central Minnesota in January. The purpose of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Summit is to get students excited about studying and working in these subjects. Students had the opportunity to interact with employers, professors and college students and visit over 50 hands-on exhibits. The exhibits helped students make a connection between STEM subject matter and real-world
employment opportunities. Keynote speaker Jonathan May is the director of data and research for Generation Next. A partnership directed by former Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak that works to narrow the educational achievement gap. May said some students, parents and teachers have a “belief gap” about what disadvantaged and minority students can achieve in math or science. “Success starts with a genuine conviction that the student can succeed,” said May. A tireless work ethic also is key. Students were given a strong message that employers in a variety of STEM fields are looking to hire women and minorities. Employers want people who can think outside the box and have the ability to be successful in today’s diverse workforce.
Students from St. Francis High School and St. Francis Middle School attended the 7th Annual STEM Summit held at St. Cloud State University January 31. Among the exhibits was the Minnesota 23428 Hwy. 65 NE Planetarium’s ExploraDome, 2 Blks. S of CR 24 on Hwy. 65 which delivered hands-on learning experiences within a 763-434-4772 25-foot diameter video dome. 763-434-7373 STEM Summit is an affiliate event of the USA Science & Collision Specialists Engineering Festival, held April Recommended by insurance companies 26-27, 2014 in Washington, D.C. Ask about a free loaner car • Owners John and Lori Buchta Submitted Photo Friendly and dependable service
Oak Ridge Auto Body Inc.
Courier Contacts
Classroom Education
Registration for classroom driver’s education is being accepted for the 2014-15 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.
Behind-the-Wheel Driving Instruction Six hours of required behind-the-wheel instruction Flexible scheduling State of Minnesota certified instructors Fee $250
Applications available at www.communityed15.com or call 763-213-1640 for more information. Sponsored by ISD 15 Community Education 6
Telephone �������������������������������763-753-7031 Fax �������������������������������������������������763-753-4693 Advertising �����������������������������763-753-7032 Billing ������������������������������������������763-753-7031 Website �������������������� www.the-courier.org Like us on Facebook 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 Deb Thayer ������������������������������763-753-7033 deborah.thayer@isd15.org
Billing Amy Lindfors ��������������������������763-213-1588 amy.lindfors@isd15.org
Delivery For delivery inquiries call 763-753-7031
Production Binie Bertils
Policies and Pricing Visit www.the-courier.org for policy and pricing information.
Address 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW St. Francis, MN 55070-9368 Deadline Information Deadline for the April issue of The Courier is March 6. 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.
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.
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
St. Francis Middle School Science Fair Michaella Fennell SFMS science teacher
Kelly Ogren’s first grade class was lucky to find a warm day with enough snow to hit the trails in the forest. It was a perfect day for a snowshoe adventure! Kelly Ogren, CCCS Teacher
St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) students in Cores 71 and 72 worked hard this fall and winter to investigate a scientific question for a science fair project. They began exploring topics and doing background research in October. Teachers Kari Rehrauer and Michaella Fennell were amazed by students with all of the extraordinary questions they looked into and great creative ideas. Students then designed their projects or experiments. Doing a science fair project requires students to use skills from many disciplines. They need planning skills to determine what materials are needed, when they would do their experiments and how they
Middle school students visit Denali State Park via Skype session Jessica Rowles SFMS 7th Grade Language Arts
Students in Jessica Rowles’ 4th hour class January 16 had the privilege of viewing an Alaskan sled dog team presentation live through a Skype session in their own classroom. Denali State Park employees in Alaska shared information about the adaptations of sled dogs and running a dog team. Also covered was the training involved and tracking sled dog positions using technology, communicating thousands of miles away. Students were able to ask questions and hear park officials’ responses. The free program, offered by Denali State Park to any classroom wishing to participate, provided reading for the students prior to the session and activities and worksheets for follow up. Students gained knowledge for the setting and from their current class novel Woodsong, a classic book by Gary Paulsen involving the Alaskan wilderness and a sled dog team running the Iditarod race from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska. Student remarks included: “Park Ranger Rachel was very nice throughout her presentation.” Alexander Johnson (A.J.). “I learned what the pictures on their badges represent as park rangers,” Jace Goedel
“I learned about how the dogs live,” Kaylee Olson. “I learned that dogs cool down after running through panting,” Sari Edwardson. “In the summers, sled dogs can run 20-25 mph,” Erin Johnson. “I learned that the dogs
For the St. Francis Middle School Science Fair, students had to pick a topic and decide whether they wanted to do a controlled experiment or an engineering design project. Submitted Photo would get things done. They need writing skills to clearly write procedures and observations for their experiments, science skills to control variables in their experiments and math skills to process their data and make data tables and graphs on the computers. Finally,
they need reasoning skills to analyze their results and draw conclusions. The projects were shared at the SFMS Science Fair January 13. Some students went on to compete at the Central Minnesota Regional Science Fair at St. Cloud State University February 21.
are fed fat to eat and to stay healthy,” Abby Mau. “I learned that dogs cool down by rolling in the snow,” Val Klimok. “I learned how their different types of fur are so important to them,” Hannah Dziuk.
These kindergarten pirates at SFES celebrated the end of their mapping unit by taking part in a day of pirate activities, which included a treasure hunt. Hannah Pagel, SFES Community Relations Coordinator
Your Real Estate Expert in Home & Land Sales since 1995! Technology has allowed students to visit places around the globe without leaving their classroom. Submitted Photo
Multicultural/Diversity Group The Multicultural/Diversity Program includes a School Community Committee, which enlists the input and support of students, staff, parents and community members from a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, experiences, beliefs and ideas to enhance diversity within ISD 15. The next meeting will be held at St. Francis High School, Room C204, 6:00-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 12.
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
American Indian Education Program The American Indian Education Program includes a Parent Committee, which is made up of parents of American Indian students, staff and community members. The committee meets monthly to discuss relevant issues and welcomes new members. The next meeting will be held at St. Francis High School, Room C204, 6:00-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 26.
Larry D. Anderson, GRI Realtor® 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
Larry the Landman… Buy or Sell Each Office Independently
Acreage For Sale Owned and Operated St. Francis, two story, 4 BR, 3 BA........................................................ $290,000 St. Francis, 3 BR, 2 BA rambler on 2.5 acres..................................... $169,900 Lake 2 BA, rambler, extra 32x26 shed.... $199,000 Sale Pending home by Zimmerman, 3 BR, hobby farm, 2 BR walkout, newerPending 92x50 pole building Sale 40 acre w/6 box stalls, great hunting.......................................................... $219,000 East Bethel, 7 acres, new homeSold 4,000 sq. ft. rambler, 3 BR, 3 BA, mother-in-law apartment. .......................................... $395,000 St. Francis, log home, 3 BR, 3 BA, 4 car garage, 60 acres................ $445,000 7
Bison adventure Submitted by CCCS 5th Grade Teachers
East Bethel Community School students and staff sends a big thank you to all the volunteers who made Beach Blanket Bingo such a success. Student volunteers from SFHS, parent volunteers and EBCS staff members spent the evening setting up for the family event, hosting Bingo, managing the refreshment table and silent auction, greeting guests and cleaning up. Thank you, volunteers. Judy Carda, EBCS Teacher
Our Saviour ’s Preschool
Fifth graders at Cedar Creek Community School were treated to a special presentation on the bison. An instructor from Wildlife Outreach, sponsored by Connexus Energy and Anoka County Parks, visited with fifth graders about the importance of the bison in our nation’s history. Students learned the strength of this incredible animal, how all of its body parts were used by the earliest Americans and how bison are now making a comeback from endangered status. Students were able to see and touch many bones and the hide of the bison. They also learned how the name “buffalo” became so popular. We had a great time learning new information about the bison.
Elementary promotes reading Cathy Paquay SFES Reading Specialist
“She’s got imagination. She’s funny. She’s brave. She’s a dog! No, she’s a girl! She’s DORY—what a rascal!” Abby Hanlon’s humorous and colorful portrayal of Dory, Fantasmagory is the focus of this year’s read aloud chapter book for One Book, One School at St. Francis Elementary School. Every classroom teachers K-5 will be discussing this hilarious character and book with their students during I Love to Read month. This activity is designed to create a shared reading experience throughout our school community and heighten and promote interest in discussing one book schoolwide. Every year SFES celebrates February with numerous and creative reading activities leading up to March 2, Read Across America Day. Special activities for the month include Spotlight on Reading!, DEAR time (Drop Everything And Read), book Bingo, Celebrate Seuss Family Reading Night and many more reading related student activities. Visit the SFES website to view the complete I Students can earn “hearts” for their lockers Love to Read for reading more pages and minutes during I calendar! Love to Read month. Submitted photo
An Educational Christian Preschool for 3, 4 & 5 year old children.
We are registering for the 2015-16 school year! Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel For more information, call 763-434-6117 or visit www.oursaviourslc.org
l a t n e R t n e m u r t s In Lesson Program Rent • Buy • New • Used Band, Orchestra, Guitars, Drums
Bring your instruments in and we’ll sell them. Repair Guitar Supplies Piano Books (In Stock or Order)
www.reynoldsmusicanoka.com
763-421-1062
108 Main Street • Anoka www.reynoldsmusicanoka.com
Consignment Center MUSIC &Educator Approved Instruments 1/15
8
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:30-8; Friday 9:30-6; Saturday 9-4
Oskar Shierts had the opportunity to wear the hide of the bison. Oskar found out it was quite warm and heavy. Shirley Meyers, CCCS Teacher
During the month of January, students in Nicole Anderlie’s second grade classroom studied penguins and their habitats. The students researched and wrote a report of their findings. They were also given the responsibility of becoming a penguin parent and took care of their own baby penguin egg. Students enjoyed learning about the many different types of penguins and how unique these birds really are! Hannah Pagel, SFES Community Relations Coordinator The following students were chosen by their teachers as Student of the Month for January: Brittney Berg, Ally Frank, Mackenzie KachinaWestegard, Caylee Phillips, Madison Seydel, Mack Simmons, Wyatt Sitts, Dan Ter Wisscha, Jacey Vincent. Congratulations students on your hard work! You set a great example as stellar students. St. Francis Middle School would like to thank Casey’s Pizza for donating a pizza lunch to our Students of the Month. Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Debaters put up good fight at state Steve Fetzik SFHS Debate Team Coach
St. Francis High School made its presence known at this year’s state debate tournament. Megan Houle and Cassandra Stierns represented the school at the State Debate Tournament at the University of Minnesota on January 16-17. The team finished with a 2-4 record. “Records can be deceiving,” noted assistant coach Lee Graves. “The girls hit some of the best teams in the state during the qualifying rounds and narrowly lost to the eventual state finalist and another team that advanced to the quarterfinals. In addition, they also lost to a strong Eagan team, a team that many thought would finish towards the top of the list.” Houle and Stierns are both senior captains for the squad, so it was especially gratifying for head coach Steve Fetzik to see them advance to state. “They lead by example throughout the year,” he commented, “and they set the tone for the benefits of hard work, a positive attitude and developing confidence in themselves as speakers.”
Cassandra Stierns and Megan Houle plot strategy for their next round at the state debate tournament. Submitted Photo
February 10 was a special day at Cedar Creek Community School. It was the 100th Day of School! To celebrate, Shari Clark’s 4th grade students and Julie Kellerman’s kindergartners got together to do some special activities. The students counted 100 steps around the building, made a necklace out of 100 Fruit Loops, answered questions about the number 100 and created a fun hat to wear for the day. The kindergarten students demonstrated their ability to count to 100 by 10s. It was a fun way to spend time together on the 100th day of school! Shari Clark, CCCS 4th grade teacher
Heat Mizer Glass, Inc. HOME & BUSINESS
Free Estimates!
763-444-9234 30678 Hwy 47 NW Isanti, MN
H E A T
M I Z E R
s “Give U ” A Break
New Construction • Remodeling and Repair • Commercial Residential Windows & Doors Glass of All Types • Plastics Shower Doors • Mirrors
AUTO Glass
MN Glass Association
Auto Glass Repaired & Replaced Boat • RV • Tractor & Heavy Equipment • Insurance Specialists
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Knowledge Bowl teams advance to subregion meet Bo Stevens SFHS Knowledge Bowl Head Coach
I am pleased to announce three St. Francis High School Knowledge Bowl (KB) teams have advanced to the subregion meet. This is the first time SFHS has had three teams advance and the first time for a Saints sophomore team. Sophomore teams almost never advance to the postseason in KB! There are 103 high school KB teams representing 30 high schools in the metro region. SFHS had nine teams this year. Our lone senior team was 19th overall in the region; our highest junior team was 17th and our highest sophomore team was 30th. The top nine teams in the final standings advance directly to the regional meet on March 3. The next 21 teams (#10-#30) compete in the subregion meet, where the top six finishers will also go to the region meet. Of the final 15 teams, six will go to the state meet. SFHS has yet to send a KB team to state. SFHS hosted the Mississippi 8 Conference KB meet February 19. None of the other conference schools are in the metro region. Buffalo is the defending conference champion, as well as the defending state KB champion. View the outcome of the meet at www.isd15.org/m8kb. The following are members of the SFHS Knowledge Bowl qualifying teams: grade 12, Ryan Carda, Courtney Fahland, Laura Morgan and Eric Sturdevant; grade 11, Joe Blom, Sarah Durkot, Amy Houle, Connor Keech and Michael Odell; grade 10, Natalie Beauto, Blake Cipperly, Shelby Roering, Conor Sullivan and Alex Sweeney.
Middle School Knowledge Bowl Ted Gehring SFMS Social Studies Department
Congratulations to the eight St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) Knowledge Bowl (KB) teams that competed February 6 at Northdale Middle School in Coon Rapids in the 2014-15 Grand Finale Meet. The meet consisted of 65 teams from the metro area. SFMS teams placed 10th, 34th, 38th, 52nd, 59th, 62nd, 63rd and 64th. St. Francis High School KB Head Coach Bo Stevens was instrumental in forming the middle school program. He recruited me as a coach, shared practice strategies, provided us with team members when we needed readers at our events and shared his team’s equipment when ours had broken down. He invited (and waived the entry fees) for our 8th graders to compete at his High School Rumble on the Rum Varsity Competition and helped provide his expertise. The program has grown from nonexistent to over 50 students and three coaches. Stevens has also shared the student-made crest KB and style of the high school uniforms. Our middle school participants proudly wear the varsity uniform. Of the 65 Knowledge Bowl teams present, the SFMS Team Free Will answered the most social studies questions correctly, bringing home the Social Studies Champion Award. Submitted Photo
Cherise Foley • 763-753-9696 22001 Lake George Blvd., Anoka
Let us help you with your baking!
Wedding, Bridal Shower, Birthday, Baptism cakes, cupcakes and much more!
presents…
The
Friday, March 13 • 7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 14 • 7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 15 • 2:00 p.m. Northgate Performing Arts Center 7295 Sunwood Drive • Ramsey, MN
Pre-show pasta dinner opening night March 13 (pre-sale only) For ticket pricing and purchases please visit www.northernstarz.org Tickets for show only can also be purchased at the door.
9
Student Updates
From Page 1
Balance budget Prior to this occurring, we provide information to our Financial Planning Action Committee (FPAC) whose composition consists of community members, administration, instructional staff and select school board members. FPAC hears the proposals, is provided with explanations, asks questions and makes suggestions about the budget. The committee’s makeup is divergent to bring together several constituent groups with a variety of perspectives. Ultimately, FPAC will make recommendations to the superintendent, who will bring those recommendations to the school board for action. By the time there is a final proposal, the goal is to have many perspectives and decision-makers involved in the process in order to have a strong decision. To be certain, all groups have been able to keep student interest at the forefront of discussions.
The following area students graduated from the University of St. Thomas fall 2014. Adam M. Jacobson of Ramsey with a master of arts in police leadership. Briana J. Coffland of Anoka with a Magna Cum Laude bachelor of arts in business admin/accounting. Jacob T. Nelson of Anoka with a bachelor of arts in business admin/accounting. Linda L. Gfrerer of Anoka with a doctor of education in organization development. The following students from your area have been named to the University of St. Thomas 2014 fall semester dean’s list. Students must post grade point averages of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. From Ramsey: Cory J. Sylvester, Hunter J. Strop, Rebecca Snee, Carson L. Patton, Nicholas J. Ose, Laurel M. Miller, Taryn C. Luby, Duncan D. Dahl and Chase T. Baumgartner; from Nowthen: Benjamin J. Sjodin; from Anoka: Meghan S. Petersen,
Miranda J. Longberg, Janae J. Harris, Mary E. Halonen, Jessica M. Cory, Michael K. Coleman and Julia S. Frebault; from Cedar: Cole D. Halstead. St. Thomas, founded in 1885, is a Catholic, independent, liberal arts university. With a coeducational student body numbering more than 10,000, it is Minnesota’s largest independent college or university.
and universities. To be considered for academic all-conference honors, student-athletes must earn a GPA of at least 3.5 on a
Fall UMAC academic all-conference numbers hit new high Sixty University of Northwestern students contributed to the record-400 number of individuals who were named Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) Academic All-Conference award winners. Northwestern’s 60 individual awards was a record for the school and finished third in terms of the UMAC’s eight full-time and five associate member colleges
School Board Highlights
First grade classes at St. Francis Elementary School recently took their learning outside. The classes spent several days exploring and observing animal tracks. They started off the week by listening to the story, A Stranger in the Woods, followed by a trip to the city park to look for different animal tracks. They dispersed bird seed around the park in hopes that animals would come and eat the seeds, leaving their tracks for the first graders to see what was left behind. They constructed a feeder using bread, lard and bird seed. The students took their feeders home and placed them outside with hopes of attracting animals. They completed the week by writing sentences and illustrating pictures about their adventure. Hannah Pagel, SFES Community Relations Coordinator
Dr. Francis S. Ryan, Dentist
School board proclamation
Main Street at First Avenue kitty-corner from The Creamery Isanti, Minnesota 55040
Independent School District 15 joined school districts throughout the state to salute local education leaders during Minnesota’s annual School Board Recognition Week February 1620. The commemorative week was designed to recognize the contributions made by Minnesota’s school board members, who are charged with governing public education under state law. Acting Superintendent Troy Ferguson read the following proclamation at the February 9 school board meeting: WHEREAS, ISD 15 recognizes the importance of public education in our community; and WHEREAS, students, families, staff and community appreciate the vital role played by those individuals who, as local school board members, establish policies to ensure an efficient, effective school system; and WHEREAS, school board members serve as a voice that enables our community to preserve local management and control of our public
Se Habla Español Aqui – Poco.
Telephone
763-444-4063
Individual – Relationship Adolescent – Adult – Child
Midwest Family Counseling
BHP – Preferred One – UCare – MHCP
763-753-9459
9
Bridge Street
Poppy St. Rum River Blvd.
Midwest Family Counseling, P.A. SF High School
Village Bank
23038 Rum River Boulevard, St. Francis
Northwest corner of Bridge Street and Rum River Boulevard
Bruce W. Barton, M.Div., M.A., LMFT, LP
Retirement Investments 23847 Johnson Street NE, Suite# 2 East Bethel, MN 55005
763-753-6614 www.highlandmoneymgmt.com
College Planning Life Insurance
David Johnson Serving the local community since 1999.
Highland Money Management is independent of Parkland Securities, LLC & SPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sigma Planning Corporation, a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Parkland Securities, LLC. Member FINRA & SIPC.
10
4.0 scale in their semester(s) of competition. Freshman Keturah Marxhausen (volleyball) of Oak Grove is an award winner.
schools; and WHEREAS, school board members are charged with representing our local education interests to state and federal government and ensuring compliance with state and federal law; and WHEREAS, school board members selflessly devote their knowledge, time and talents as advocates for our school children; and WHEREAS, local school board members are strong advocates for public education and responsible for communicating the needs of the school district to the public and the public’s expectations to the district; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the ISD 15 schools and communities recognize and salute the members of the Independent School District 15 School Board by proclaiming February 16-20, 2015 as School Board Recognition Week. ISD 15 school board members received certificates recognizing their contributions. The Minnesota School Board Association declared February 16-20 as Minnesota’s annual School Board Recognition Week. The members serving ISD 15 are (L-R), Chairman David Roberts, Director Amy Kelly, Vice Chairwoman Marsha Van Denburgh, Director Betsy Roed, Director Janet Hunt, Secretary Barbara Jahnke and Treasurer Suzanne Erkel. Courier Photo The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
School Board Highlights
January 26, 2015
Kathleen Miller Staff writer
All board members present Happenings at St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) SFMS social studies teacher Deb Parson introduced two 6th grade students: Breckin Weiss and Veronica Tilc. The students presented their World Domination projects. Tilc did research on recycling and staying green; Weiss researched why dogs eat horse trimmings. Site Report: Lifelong Learning Center (LLC) Kristine Vogtlin, program supervisor for Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) and Jennifer Dupre, manager for Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE), presented an overview of the programs at the LLC, which include Preschool Place 15 (PP15), ECFE, ECSE and Early Childhood Screening. For the 2013-14 school year, 325 children participated in early childhood screening. Screening should be done soon after the child’s third birthday and is required for public school attendance. It does not determine kindergarten readiness. Currently, 71 families are being serviced in ECFE programs and there are 19 morning, afternoon and evening classes for PP15. Programs continue to be fully inclusive. 2015-16 Budget for ISD 15 Business Services Director Scott Nelson presented information regarding budget adjustments needed due to revenue decreases. More students are graduating than entering kindergarten. For fiscal year 2015, there were 144 fewer pupils and the projection for fiscal year 2016 is for 123 fewer pupils. With 80-85 percent of the budget going to staffing, there is a $920,000 estimate of revenue needed to fulfill settled
School Board Members David Roberts, Chairman........................763-843-0013 Marsha Van Denburgh, Vice Chairwoman .................................763-753-6653 Barbara Jahnke, Clerk................................763-753-6846 Suzanne Erkel, Treasurer..........................763-413-1195 Janet Hunt, Director...................................763-221-5341 Amy Kelly, Director.....................................763-744-8458 Betsy Roed, Director...................................763-434-9570 Email: schoolboard@isd15.org
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 9—Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m.; Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, March 23—Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m.; Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, April 13—Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m.; Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Live streaming and video archives of school board meetings are available at www.isd15.org/ sbvideo The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
contract obligations. At this time, an estimated reduction of $2.74M is needed to balance the budget. Resolutions Approved The School Board approved three resolutions. The first resolution reestablished the director of Human Resources (HR) position and to promote the current HR coordinator to that position effective February 1. That was approved by a vote of 6-1, nay being Suzanne Erkel. The second resolution approved pay adjustments to staff positions as determined by an outside firm. Two positions were adjusted. That was approved by a vote of 6-1, nay being Suzanne Erkel. The third resolution was for ISD 15 to adopt the 2015 Pay Equity Report as presented. That was unanimously approved. Closed Session The School Board met with the ISD 15 attorney to discuss a pending litigation case, Edward Saxton v. Independent School District 15, Court File No. 02-CV-14-4507, including the employee’s alleged claim for defense and indemnification. After the closed session, the School Board unanimously approved a resolution denying the claim for defense and indemnification. The complete resolution can be viewed at www.isd15.org under School Board, Minutes, Agendas and Packets, February 9, 2015 Packet.
School Board Highlights
February 9, 2015
Kathleen Miller Staff writer
All board members present Site Report: Crossroads School & Vocational Center (CSVC) Scott Manni, principal at CSVC, presented a video showcasing Awards Night, which is a celebration bringing families and students together. Highlights included student musicians, a field trip to the University of Minnesota and Crossroads Point of Pride. Special thanks to science teacher Dave Berger and the students that worked on the video. Manni also provided an update to the Saints Online program, which he will oversee. The application is being finalized and will be submitted to the Minnesota Department of Education for acceptance. American Indian Parent Committee Carline Sargent, Multicultural and American Indian Liaison and Ursula Clarin, American Indian parent representative, addressed the School Board regarding concerns surrounding historical information pertaining to Columbus Day. They requested that the School Board remove Christopher Columbus Day from the school calendar. Consideration of Visitors A number of people addressed the School Board regarding a recent decision made by district administrators to not move ahead with the plan made last May to transition the track & field program from Community Ed to a Mississippi 8 Conference sport. The Rec Department, a division of ISD 15 Community Ed, picked up the track & field program in 2004 after budget
School Board Perspective Dave Roberts
There was a buzz about the crowd that night… parents and kids milling about, getting ready for the big event, students coming and going as they do, little brothers and sisters chasing each around. And then you heard it. A solitary voice that made everybody stop and take notice. Music filled the air and you couldn’t help but admire the talent and poise of the singer, the high and low notes perfectly performed. What you heard was a well-rehearsed, controlled, well-executed version of the Star Spangled Banner. You see, this was no ordinary night and this was no ordinary performer. This was a St. Francis High School boys hockey game and the singer was one of our very own hockey players. When he finished, he looked to the stands, his goal of surprising his mother had been accomplished. When I joined the School Board a few years back, I did so with the intention of making decisions that would always serve the best interests of our students. I looked at the two children I had at the time and I knew I would be proud to serve them. But then it hit me. My kids were far too young for me to know what would best serve all students in our district. I made the decision to immerse myself into our district, to really get to know the students that I am working for. And I have come away delighted. I have had so many conversations with so many of our students of all ages and am constantly impressed with their cuts eliminated middle school athletics. Since then, the program has steadily grown each year from 28 participants to 93 students in 2014. St. Francis Middle School is the only middle school in the Mississippi 8 Conference that does not offer conference athletics. Those addressing the School Board and district administrators encouraged them all to reconsider the recent decision. Budget Timeline Directors Paul Neubauer and Brandon Nelson provided information and a timeline regarding the budget process for 2015-16. The Financial Action Planning Committee (FPAC) met February 2 for the first meeting. They will meet again February 12 and provide recommendations to the superintendent. At the February 23 school board meeting, the School Board will hear the recommendations coming forward. At the March 9 school board meeting, the School Board will act on resolutions for non-renewal of probationary teachers and unrequested leaves. Cabinet members will determine enrollment numbers for the 2015-16
depth of character. To say that these students are a well-rounded bunch of kids is obvious, but there is so much more to them than that. This summer, I was at a car wash fundraiser and I stopped to talk to one of the athletes working the event. I was so excited to congratulate her on her record-breaking season and how I was impressed by the example that she, as an upperclassman, set for the younger girls that looked up to her. While her accomplishments would have been more than enough for any student to be proud of, what I found to be most special about my conversation with this young lady was that despite her great season, what she was most eager to tell me about was the accomplishments of her teammates and their successes and how as a team, they became stronger and brought out the best in one another. What I write about today is not about our athletes; it’s not about our singers. I’m simply using these two students as examples of the kind of people that our school system produces. These fine students, while unique as people, are just an example of the kinds of students that you will find walking the halls of any of our schools. They say it takes a village to raise a child and I see this village at work every day in our community. I watch as parents and friends step up to help out when needed. I watch business owners advocate for our students. I see all the interactions that our students have with the staff in their buildings. From the high fives with the principals to the jokes that custodians tell. I look at all of the time and dedication that our teachers and educational assistants put into the classroom experience and the protective nature of our bus drivers. After the hockey game was over, I heard the student who sang the national anthem say to his mom, “I wanted to surprise you.” I think all of the villagers were proud to call that student one of our own that night.
school year, the amount of adjustments needed and develop a process to balance the budget. Building principals are assisting in providing ways to balance the budget relative to their sites. Site Management Councils (SMC) also provides a level of implementation to site adjustments and participates in the decision-making. The finance policy committee is a new committee formed to increase communication to school board members with a focus on policy and finance. Budget priorities established include reduction through attrition, retain programs when possible, district reductions first and attention to class size guidelines. At present, a $2.74M budget reduction has been identified. Resolution Approved The School Board unanimously approved a contract with Skyward, Inc. for the district’s business suite software covering human resources, payroll and finance departments for Independent School District 15 effective July 1, 2015. TIES was the previous vendor for these services.
11
Community Education Why a high school diploma or GED is so important Melody Panek ISD 15 Adult Basic Education Coordinator
According to Clemson University, a highly ranked public university in South Carolina, here are three reasons why receiving a high school diploma or GED is critical to your future: } Graduating from high school will determine how well you live for the next 50 years of your life. High school graduates earn $143 more per week than high school dropouts. College graduates earn even more. } Dropouts are more likely to apply for and receive public assistance than graduates of high school; } Dropouts comprise a disproportionate percentage of the nation’s prison and
death row inmates. About 75 percent of America’s state prison inmates, almost 59 percent of federal inmates and 69 percent of local jail inmates did not complete high school. Although these statistics are very sobering, the great news is that many school districts all over the country provide Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes for students who have not graduated from high school. Independent School District 15 is one of them. ISD 15 ABE offers an adult diploma program from which a student can graduate with a high school diploma. GED preparation is also offered, which includes guidance with assessments, study materials, practice tests and
GED registration. Not only does ISD 15 ABE help students who have not finished high school, but it is a full service classroom. This means classes are offered for adult English Language Learners of all levels. Students also have access to Accuplacer test preparation and basic skills brush up, such as spelling, reading, math, writing, resume creation and more are also offered. Each student is assessed and a personal educational plan is designed based on the student’s needs. There are no large class sizes in which a student is lost because one-to-one student to teacher learning takes place. All students work at their own pace to attain whatever educational goals they choose.
Our awesome group of kids, parents and staff recently raised $254 to benefit the Perry family. Todd Perry was the recipient of the Coaches for Community event this year, which was held January 31. Todd was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease last August. Kids Connection staff put a jar out on a recent Tuesday and support for the Perry family really took off! Lauryn Perry, grade 4, attends Kids Connection at St. Francis Elementary School. Cathy Thunberg, Kids Connection Lead, SFES
Community Education Contacts Nancy Wallace, Community Education Coordinator..........763-753-7171 Adult Basic Education (GED)..............................................................763-753-7190 Melody Panek, Site Coordinator Adult Education & Services.................................................................763-213-1640 Driver’s Education/Behind the Wheel Nancy Messerschmidt, Program Supervisor Communications Kathleen Miller, Program Supervisor........................................763-753-7042 The Courier Newspaper........................................................................763-753-7031 Kathleen Miller, Editor........................................................................763-753-7042 Pat Johnson, Graphics.......................................................................763-753-7025 Deborah Thayer, Graphics...............................................................763-753-7031 Janice Audette, Advertising...........................................................763-753-7032 Facility Scheduling Nancy Messerschmidt, Program Supervisor........................763-213-1589 Family Education & Services...............................................................763-753-7170 Jennifer Dupre, Manager Kids Connection Christine Spindler-Schlottman, Program Supervisor......763-213-1616 Kids Connection Cedar Creek Community School Site....763-753-7160 Kids Connection St. Francis Elementary School Site......763-213-8674 Preschool Place 15....................................................................................763-753-7170 Jenny Dupre, Manager Rec Department Diane Guinn, Program Supervisor..............................................763-213-1823 Amy Lindfors, Rec Assistant............................................................763-213-1588 Sandhill Center Christine Spindler-Schlottman, Program Supervisor......763-213-1616 www.isd15.org • www.the-courier.org • www.communityed15.com
12
One of the best parts of ABE is that it is free—all services offered are at no charge to the student! Licensed teachers and trained volunteers are eager to help you start. For more information, please call 763753-7190 or just stop by our classroom for a visit. Classroom hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Do you have a child who will be a kindergartner this fall? Be sure they have gone through Early Childhood Screening. Last appointments before fall take place in March. Early childhood screening should be done soon after the child’s third birthday. Screening is a FREE, simple check of a young child’s health and development; it does not determine kindergarten readiness Screening includes: • a developmental assessment, • vision and hearing checks, • immunization and health review Call 763-753-7187 NOW if you currently have a 3 or 4-year-old child who has not been screened.
Attention Adult Learners Here are three great ways to earn a SuperAmerica gas card:
FITNESS for all! We offer plenty of ways for you to get in shape, so you’ll never be bored with working out. We have two treadmills, two elliptical trainers, two stationary bikes and a Nautilus four-station weight machine.
Relaxed atmosphere – senior citizens are encouraged to attend! Socialize after your workout in our conference room. Only $2 per visit and no membership fees. Call Chris today for more information or email christine.schlottman@isd15.org Fitness 15 • Sandhill Center 23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005
Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m.–Noon
1 2 3
Currently enrolled ABE students will receive a $5 gas card when they refer a new student who attends for 12 hours within three weeks. New ABE students who attend for 12 hours within three weeks will receive a $5 gas card. ABE students who attend 40 hours within eight weeks will receive a $10 gas card.
ABE
Adult Basic Education Start your future now!
Independent School District 15 Community Education
www.communityed15.com/abe For more information or to register, call
763-753-7190 The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Bright Beginnings in ISD 15 Early Childhood 763-753-7170
Call ECFE at for more information or to register for any of the opportunities on this page. Lifelong Learning Center • 18900 Cedar Drive NW, Oak Grove • Online at www.isd15.org/ecfe Follow ISD 15 Early Childhood on Facebook to stay in the know and connect with other parents.
Preschool Place 15 Registration for the 2015-16 School Year Preschool registration booklets were mailed in February. Register NOW for the best selection of classes. Classes offered at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove. • Programming takes place now through May • Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available • One, two or three times per week • Two hour to two-and-a-half hour sessions • Most classes are age specific • Classes also available for 2-year-
olds and very young 3-year-olds • Sliding fee scale is available based on family size and income • Busing available for ALL morning and afternoon classes on a limited basis 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.
Looking for a short preschool experience for your fall 2015 kindergartner or looking to add a day to your child’s current preschool schedule? Kindergarten Here I Come! is the perfect answer. Your child will experience a variety of activities especially geared toward children entering kindergarten in the fall. Sliding fee for tuition is available upon request based on family size and income. Course #: 1220
Dates: Tuesdays, March 17-May 19 Time: 12:30-3:00 p.m. Ages: Children age-eligible for kindergarten in the fall (age 5 by September 1, 2015) Fee: $150 (three payments of $50 March, April, May)
Come and join us at ECFE
Do you have kids clothes, toys and equipment you want to sell? Early Childhood Advisory Council Garage Sale is your solution. 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 Monday, March 9 until they are gone. Tags may be purchased at the Early Childhood office at Lifelong Learning Center. Shop early by volunteering at the sale. Sign up to volunteer when you purchase your sale tags.
Time to clean out the close ts!
The Early Childhood Advisory Council will keep 15 percent of the total sale.
21st Annual
Open to the public Saturday, April 11 9:00 a.m.–noon St. Francis Elementary School
Time Together
Parents and children explore a variety of activities planned by a licensed early childhood teacher.
Check out the Learn & Thrive brochure for ECFE parent/child classes for the 2014-15 school year. Register NOW for classes. New semester is just beginning. • Morning, afternoon and evening classes offered • Age specific and Birth to Kindergarten classes
Time for Play
What is Early Family Childhood Education (ECFE)?
Sibling Care
a division of ISD 15 Community Education
Children practice and discover their own capabilities by experimenting with materials, playing with other children and trying out new activities.
Time for Parents
While children are busy playing, parents meet with other parents. A licensed parent educator will lead the group and guide discussion. Care is available for the siblings of the child in class.
A place for babies A place for toddlers A place for preschoolers A place for all dads, moms and other relatives in a parenting role
Special events and field trips
ECFE is a place where parents and young children learn and play together and meet other families with young children. ECFE provides information about getting ready for school, discipline, child development, communication and growing together as a family. ECFE parent/child includes:
Children’s Museum
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Garage Sale
Check out the Places to Go, Things to Do brochure featuring special events and field trips for families. Two hours of exploration in six playfilled, hands-on galleries! After a brief orientation, you and your child(ren) may explore the museum on your own. Bring a bag lunch which you will eat before getting back on the bus. Fees include admission and transportation.
Friday, March 20 Bus leaves the LLC at 9:00 a.m. and will return by 2:00 p.m. Fee: $7.50 per person Deadline to register: March 12 Date: Time:
Oliver Kelley Farm
Go back in time and visit a working farm from the 1860s. The farm is located just west of Anoka. Oliver Kelley was the founder of the National Farming Organization (Grange). We will visit the farm house, help harvest a crop like pioneers and have time to learn about farm animals. Bring a bag lunch to eat at Orono Park in Elk River. There will time for a picnic and playground fun. Date: Friday, April 24 Time: Bus leaves LLC at 9:30 a.m. and will return by 2:30 p.m. Fee: $8 per person Deadline to register: April 9 Do you and your children need something to do in this cold weather?
Check out Pop In and Play! Pop in for fun activities. Meet other families and build relationships that last a lifetime. No pre-registration requires. Day/Time: Tuesday, 12:45-2:45 p.m.
Early Childhood thanks area businesses Thank you to all of the businesses that donated items to the Early Childhood Family Carnival: Tasty Pizza, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, Zero Gravity, Rum River Inn, The Refuge Golf Club, Mansetti’s Pizza & Pasta - St. Francis, Ham Lake Lanes, DQ/ Orange Julius - St. Francis, Captain’s on Long Lake, Great Clips - St. Francis, CEC Theatres, Lyric Arts, Minnesota Swarm Lacrosse, King’s County Market, Perpetual Motion, Pizza Hut, Foss Swim School, Kids Hair, YMCA - Andover, Adventure Park, Jam Hops, Buffalo Wild Wings, Stages Theatre , Andover Community Center, Grand Slam, Casey’s - St. Francis, Jack Rubenstein Wholesale Carpet & Flooring, Patriot Lanes & Lounge, Minnesota Zoo, EJM Painting LLC, Subway, Domino’s Pizza - St. Francis, St. Francis Hardware, Shelley Mattison - Thirty-One, Ellen Brown - Young Living, Taho Sportswear and Famous Dave’s BBQ. Over 200 children and their families enjoyed the day with games, activities and snacks.
Day/Time: Friday, 9:15-11:15 a.m. Fee: $4 per child, max $12 per family Upcoming Themes: March 3: Down on the Farm March 10: Vegetables and Fruits March 13: Sea Life March 17: All Things Green March 20: Duck, Duck, Goose March 24: Gym Time March 27: Very Hungry Caterpillar March 31: Zoo Animals April 7: Rain and Flowers April 10: Growing Things
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.
Oceans and Sea Life
What animals live in the oceans? Sing songs, explore animals and experience art in the water world. Dates: Wednesdays, March 11 & 18 Time: 12:45-2:45 p.m. Fee: $8 per child per two-week class
13
The Sandhill Center is a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education. Its purpose is to provide arts and recreation opportunities for ISD 15 residents.
Sandhill Center 23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005 Join the Lunch Bunch at the Sandhill Center in the Bethel Cabaret for our monthly catered luncheon featuring top entertainment by popular artists. Make your reservations early as most of our shows sell out ahead of time. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. Doors open: 10:30 a.m. Lunch served: 11:00 a.m.
Showtime: 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Cost: $16.25, sales tax included
For reservations, call 763-213-1641 or 763-213-1616.
CODA Tuesday, March 10 CODA is a saxophone/keyboard duo, consisting of Scott Dorff on soprano, alto and tenor saxophones and Malcolm Anderson on piano/keyboard. This duo is in its 17th year of performing. They continue to compose and arrange music weekly, striving to make each performance unique and pleasurable for their audience. Come enjoy the sounds of CODA.
February is I Love To Read month. St. Francis Elementary School Kids Connection students had the opportunity to read aloud on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. One of the books that was read had a craft project that related to the story. Pictured (L-R) are Tucker, Sena, Kari, Hailey, Kenzie, Gabby, Lexie and Sam. Submitted by Cathy Thunberg, SFES Kids Connection
Just 4 Kids
4-year old childcare program 2014-15 school year!
NEW!
April Entertainment
Red Johnson Tuesday, April 14
Children will participate in various educational and recreational activities in a safe, well-supervised environment. Children may bring a lunch from home or purchase a school lunch. Ask for details.
If you have items on display at Sandhill Center, please call Chris at 763-213-1616 or 763-213-1641 to make arrangements to pick them up.
Program hours are Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Daily and weekly rates are available.
Sandhill is a Silver & Fit® Qualified Center. For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program or the Sandhill Center, please call 763-213-1616.
Questions?
Call Chris at 763-213-1616. www.communityed15.com/kc
Line Dancing Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. This is an excellent class for those just beginning in line dance as well as those more experienced line dancers. No registration necessary, come when you want. Day: Wednesday Time: 10:00–11:00 a.m. Fee: $2 per class
SilverSneakers® Classic
SilverSneakers® Yoga
Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a SilverSneakers® ball are offered for resistance. A chair is available if needed for seated or standing support. Days: Tuesdays, Thursdays Time: 9:00–10:00 a.m. Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® members; $2 per class for non-members.
SilverSneakers® Yoga will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of seated and standing postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity. Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays Time: 9:00–10:00 a.m. Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® members; $2 per class for non-members.
14
Kids Connection now offers a 4-yearold childcare program called Just 4 Kids at St. Francis Elementary School.
Kids Connection is a division of ISD 15 Community Education
Kids Connection
Before and after school childcare Program Sites Cedar Creek Community School 763-753-7160 for East Bethel Community School and Cedar Creek Community School students St. Francis Elementary School 763-213-8674 Before School Care Begins at 6:00 a.m. until school starts �������������������������$9/day After School Care Begins end of school day until 6:00 p.m. �����������������������������$9/day Non-School Care 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. �������������������$31/day Other fees Registration fee �����������������������$35/child each additional child is $10
School year care is available now through June 1, 2015. All children must be preregistered.
Kids Connection is a comprehensive childcare program for children kindergarten through grade 5, that provides children a safe, fun experience and offers families a variety of childcare options. The program is open 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Hours include before and after school programs and full day programming on non-school days. Contracts are now available.
Questions?
Call Chris at 763-213-1616 or 763-213-1641. www.communityed15.com/kc Kids Connection is a division of ISD 15 Community Education
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Community & Business St. Francis Police Department to hold gun safety night Officer Jody Cole #104 St. Francis Police Department
Learn gun safety with Eddie Eagle and the St. Francis Police Department, Monday, March 30, 4:30-6:30 p.m. The St. Francis Police Department will be hosting a two hour gun safety night for students who are in grades 2-3. The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program was created by a task force that includes educators, school administrators, curriculum specialist, urban housing safety officials, clinical psychologist, law enforcement officials and National Rifle Association firearms safety experts. Officials estimate that there are over 200 million firearms in the United States. Studies suggest they’re kept in approximately half of all households. Whether or not a particular family owns firearms, chances are, neighbors and relatives do, making it likely that children will encounter a firearm at some point. From their earliest awareness, children are exposed to guns through cartoons, television shows and movies. They’re curious about firearms and may
have developed inaccurate perceptions of what a firearm is and does. Just as Smokey Bear teaches children not to play with matchbooks, Eddie Eagle teaches them not to play with firearms with a simple, memorable four-part plan: If you see a gun: STOP! Don’t Touch. Leave the Area. Tell an Adult.
It is important for children to understand that only with a parent or with parental permission and adult supervision should a child be around firearms. Young children are prone to be curious about guns. They may have developed varying perceptions of fantasy and reality. Television and movies can distort their perceptions. Students in grades 2-3 need to understand that gun use on
television is fantasy. This age group needs to know that guns are not toys and that showing off with guns is not cool. At the gun safety class: } Snacks provided for students } Free to attend } Class size limited
Rain or Shine For ages 1-10
Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 21 10:00 a.m. Sharp St. Francis Community Park Off of Hwy. 47 in St. Francis
Sponsored by the St. Francis Lioness, Lions and Oak Grove Lions
Children of Hope Preschool
Athletic Trainers
5730 179th Lane NW • Ramsey, MN
763-753-2057
www.childrenofhopepreschool.com
NEW EXTENDED CARE HOURS! Before Care Hours: 6:00-9:00 a.m. After Care Hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m.
Before School Care 6:00-9:00 a.m. $7.50 per day
Please contact the St. Francis Police Department at 763-7531264 to register your child for the event, or call if you have any questions. A parent or guardian is required to attend with their child.
After School Care 3:00-6:00 p.m. $7.50 per day
Preschool Class (½ day) 9:00-11:30 a.m. $60 per week/5 days
®
Regularly priced at $10.00
Wednesday, March 11 • 7:00-8:00 p.m. at Andover Physical Therapy Wednesday, March 18 • 7:00-8:00 p.m. at Ham Lake Physical Therapy
Please call 651-674-7589
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. $110 per week/5 days
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
50% Off ImPACT Baseline Concussion Testing Wednesday, March 25 • 7:00-8:00 p.m. at St. Francis Physical Therapy
Preschool Extended day
Different combinations of the above can be accommodated, including less than 5 days a week.
In honor of National Athletic Training Month we will be offering
Call now for a tour!
to schedule a baseline test or visit www.impacttest.com for more information about the ImPACT® Program.
St. Francis
Physical Therapy
Isanti
Physical Therapy
Andover
Physical Therapy
Ham Lake
Physical Therapy
North Branch
Physical Therapy
Zimmerman
Physical Therapy
www.physicaltherapyptc.com 15
SFHS Business Professionals of America members compete 250 participants from seven high schools. St. Francis High School sent 27 members to compete. The following individuals qualified in their categories to compete at state in March: Integrated Office Applications Morgan Hoppe - 2nd place
Rebecca Allard SFHS BPA Club Advisor
The Business Professionals of America (BPA) Region 4 district competition took place February 4 at Anoka Ramsey Community College. The competition had over
You are invited to the St. Francis Lioness & Lions Annual
Salad Luncheon
& Fashion Show Saturday, April 18 St. Francis American Legion 3073 Bridge Street, St. Francis Donation $7. Tickets at the door. We All proceeds promise fun will be used for and door St. Francis prizes! High School scholarships. 11:00 a.m. Social 12:00 p.m. Luncheon 12:30 p.m. Fashion Show
Congratulations to all Business Professionals of America students for working hard and proudly representing SFHS. Go Saints! Submitted Photo Small Business Management Team Brooke Imm and Madison Zerfas - 1st place Graphic Design Promotion Megan Veenstra - 2nd place Human Resource Management Jordan Westling - 1st place
Presentation Management Individual Brooke Imm - 2nd place The following are other members who placed in the top 10 in event category and received a plaque or certificate: Graphic Design Promotion Shayla Pyles - 5th
Worship with us on Palm Sunday, March 29 At 10:30 a.m. with our choir leading the children in as they wave palm branches, Alleluia! Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. • 6th grade-adult Sunday School at 10:30 a.m. • 5th grade and under
Children’s fashions from Walmart Ladies fashions from Christopher & Banks
Worship at 10:30 a.m.
Christopher & Banks will also have a bargain “trunk show.”
St. Francis United Methodist Church A Community Dedicated to Seeking Christ and Serving Others
Pastor Kevin Coder 3914 - 229th Avenue • St. Francis www.stfrancis-umc.com • 763-753-2273
For more information, please contact Lioness Marolyn Baumann at 763-753-2041.
Business Management Team Dom Dejarlais and Jordan Westling - 4th and Hannah McCann and Summer Olson - 5th Personal Financial Management Concepts Dom Dejarlais - 5th and Maddie Mart - 8th Business Meeting Management Concepts Alysha Johnson - 7th and Madison Zerfas - 8th Office Systems and Procedures Morgan Hoppe - 8th Basic Advanced Interview Skills Madison Zerfas - 2nd place tie, Tiera Salitros - 2nd place tie and Amber Aho - 3rd Marketing, Management and Human Resources Brooke Imm - 3rd and Brenna Bowman - 5th Prepared Speech Natalie Monnier - 4th Video Production Team Megan Veenstra and Shayla Pyles - 4th
Daily oSnpdaeycials
Thursday . p.m Bingo 7:00 M es ri F d n Friday s burger a $5.49 Angu 6:00 p.m. y a R d t s Mea affle Tue , k ea st acos, Daily $5.49 Two T with chips Specials sh fi k r o in r en D chick ursday and salsa Sunday–Th night . .m p 0 :0 -8 0 e 4:0 11 a.m.-Mid Kids Eat Fre y a d s e n d We s or 75¢ Boneles ings W l a n Traditio e Pizza $9.99 Larg
Tuesday, March 17 Serving Corned Beef and Cabbage Drink Specials , Suite 700 s Blvd. NW ci n ra F t. S 23212 MN 55070 St. Francis, by County Market 7 Highway 4 serve the 3-8000 to re Call 763-75 r for a takeout order. o night 11 a.m.-Mid party room Mon-Thurs idnight; Sun 8 a.m.-M m.; Sat 8 a.m.-1 a.m. a. .-1 m a. 11 i Fr
TFimameily Meets Time Where Game
16
We can cater your party!
Showers, birthdays, any event Book our party room
Welcome to New Life Church Bruce Van Natta,
founder of Sweet Bread Ministries will speak Saturday, March 14 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Teaching 6:00 p.m. Worship & Healing Service Sunday, March 15, 9:00 a.m. Worship Service
Palm Sunday Service
Sunday, March 29 • 9:00 a.m.
Sunday Schedule • 9:00 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday School & Adult Study
Our mission is to Invite, Ignite and Excite all people about Jesus Christ!
18975 Lake George Boulevard, Oak Grove 1/4 mile south of County Road 22 on County Road 9 763-753-5717 • www.newlifeoakgrove.org
Come as a guest, leave as our family! The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
“The Nightmare” is dropping the hammer on the track and in school BMX Shop, based out of Maple Grove. Max, The Nightmare, was dedicated from day one. He has never missed a single race at his home track at Rum River BMX in Isanti. He has also raced at all 13 tracks in Minnesota and has hit up tracks in Wisconsin, Illinois,
Missouri and Oklahoma. Even with all of his hard work relearning how to do Max Neumann is a 9th simple things, Max was able grader at St. Francis High to place 4th in his first year in School. He is also known as the Minnesota State Series. He “The Nightmare” at the BMX then took his dreams a little track. He has come a long way farther and qualified and raced since 2010 after a head injury in the 2013 Redline Gold Cup took away a lot of final in Missouri. his gross motor skills He came home and balance. Max with the #1 plate, has always been an which he wore on outgoing and sportshis bike for the loving kid. His family 2014 race year. knew it was going to In 2014, The be very hard to find Nightmare added a new sport where another goal he could work at his to his list. He own pace. wanted to race In late 2012, they two bikes, Class decided to try the Bike, which has sport of BMX racing. 20 inch tires and From the very first Cruiser Bike, lap around the track which has 24 inch on his dad’s old 1982 tires. The year Schwinn predator, started out well Max was hooked. It but he had taken didn’t take him long some pretty bad to have his very own crashes and spills in-town sponsor, over the summer Joe Tillman from including a St. Francis Collision/ broken foot, a Joe’s Hot Rod Shop. broken toe and a Tillman is continually broken hip. But making Max’s ride he moved on and awesome and he at state, placed also helped get Max 8th in Class and on an outstanding Max Neumann, "The Nightmare" is becoming a good role 3rd in Cruiser. team, Dingman’s model for the younger riders on his team. Submitted Photo After a few Emily NEUMANN
Parent
13th Annual
Saturday, March 7
4:00-8:00 p.m. Slippery Steve & Scary Gary
Helicopter rides all day! 2:00 p.m.
8:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m.
Arctic Plunge
Our Famous Friends
into Long Lake
Mystery Dinner Theatre ‘Til Death Do Us Part Saturday, March 21
5:30 p.m. Social • 6:30 p.m. Dinner 7:30 p.m. Performance Reserve your space now, tickets only $34.95.
Get bragging rights on your meatloaf! Meatloaf Recipe Contest — Cash Prizes Saturday, March 28 Mashed potatoes Registration 11:00 a.m. Judging 2:00 p.m. Open to the public to enjoy at 2:30 p.m. $5
supplied.
763-444-5897
Call 763-444-5897 for contest information. The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Friday, March 6 4:00-7:00 p.m. ng Plu e Registration and Chili Feed
Entertainment
1:00 p.m. Old Fashioned Ice Cutting by Englund Family
Entertainment 8:00 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Pull Start Diesel
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, Meat Raffle 4:00 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.
weeks off to mend, he was off to race the DK Gold Cup finals in Yukon, Oklahoma. Even though he rode hard and gave it his all, he came home with 4th place on both bikes. The Nightmare is now healed up and ready to rock and roll for the 2015 season. He has already proven himself by racing in his first national in January in Tulsa, Oklahoma and bringing home a second place win. Not only is Max dropping the hammer on the
track, but also in school by keeping his grades up to A’s and B’s. He is becoming a role model for all the younger riders on his team and at the track. The Nightmare may not be the very best rider or the fastest rider, but one could say his dedication says it all. “Never give up and always give it your best and believe in yourself. Only you can make anything happen.”
The Isanti County Master Gardeners 12th Annual
Saturday, March 21
8:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. National Guard Armory-Cambridge 505 Spirit River Dr. S. • Cambridge, MN
There will be speakers, demonstrations, vendors, a silent auction and more. Registration with lunch is $27 if received by March 13, after March 13 is $30. Mail to: Isanti Co. Gov’t Center, C/O Master Gardener, 555 18th Ave. SW, Cambridge, MN 55008 $30 at the door Visit www.isanticountymastergardeners.com for further details.
Nowthen Lions
Fish Fry Friday, March 20 5:00–7:30 p.m.
Nowthen Alliance Church Dining Room 19653 Nowthen Blvd. NW
Pancake Breakfast Saturday, March 28 8:00–11:00 a.m.
Proceeds will fund the 8th Annual Heritage Festival on September 26. Sponsored by the Nowthen Lions Nowthen Alliance Church Dining Room 19653 Nowthen Blvd. NW Pancakes, scrambled eggs, hash browns, sausage and beverages Questions? Call Mary at 763-753-6919 • Free Will Offering • Kids Gift Bags • Drawings
On the menu is breaded Alaskan Pollock, boiled red potatoes, green beans, cole slaw, bread, cookies and beverages.
Free Will Offering!
Easter Bunny Party & Fun Activities Saturday, March 28 8:00-11:00 a.m. Nowthen Alliance Church 19653 Nowthen Blvd. NW • See the Easter Bunny • Bring your camera • Bring a basket for your eggs • Egg hunt outside depending on the weather • Drawings for prizes in the following age groups Ages 0-2; 3-5; 6-8; 8 & up • Rain or shine Questions? Call Judy at 763-753-6962 –or– email to jlhbells@earthlink.net
All proceeds will be given back to the community of Nowthen through donations and projects. Questions? Email jlhbells@earthlink.net 17
Seeking young ladies to be Miss St. Francis Ambassador candidates
Isanti Outreach Library celebrates fifth year
Jacquie Goedel St. Francis Ambassadors
The Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program is currently looking for candidates for the 2015-16 candidate season. We are looking for young ladies ages 6-9 and 16-21. This is a great and fun way to earn a scholarship and learn more about your community and to give back while representing the City of St. Francis. Candidate season starts April 26. For more information, check out our Facebook page or website at www.sfambassadors.com. Any questions, contact Jacquie Goedel, Program Coordinator at 612282-7226.
Fun For All!
Saturday, April 18 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Cedar Creek Community School 21108 Polk Street NE, Cedar
Silent Auction Baskets provided by classrooms Raffle including Themed Baskets and CASH prizes Dunk Tank Crazy Hair Bounce House Pinewood Derby Race Obstacle Course Minnow Races Graffiti Wall Photo Booth
Gerald Golden Friends of the Isanti Area Library
The Isanti Outreach Library celebrated its fiveyear anniversary at the Isanti City Hall on January 21. The Friends of Isanti Area Library provided refreshments and encouraged everyone to check out the library’s selection of books, movies and audiobooks. The Isanti Outreach Library is open every Wednesday, noon-4:00 p.m.
Mike Warring, Isanti County Commissioner, Carla Lydon, East Central Library Assistant Director, Barbara Misselt, East Central Regional Library Director and Kirsten Vaughan, Outreach Librarian at the Isanti Outreach Library. Submitted Photo
Friday, March 20 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Games • Fun • Friends • Food East Bethel Community School 21210 Polk Street NE Oak Grove
Root Beer Floats, Hot Dogs, Burgers, Taco-In-A-Bag, Fruit Smoothies, Cotton Candy, Pop, Water, Juice and Old Tyme Candy Shoppe
Pizza from s Mansetti’ asta in Pizza & P St. Francis
Shop Courier Advertisers!
Tell them you saw their ad in The Courier and thank them for advertising.
Home Bake Pizzas Saturday, March 21 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 Theme Basket Raffle • Cake Walk Contact sfe.apt@isd15.org for more information Sponsored by the St. Francis Elementary School Association of Parents & Teachers
We deliver
premium pizza
Always Available
Pepperoni or Sausage or Cheese
2 12 F O R
$
00
Pick some up today!
763-753-4577
Place your order online at www.mansettis-pizza.com
GlutenFree Crust Available!
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 Any Regular Size Pasta Dinner $ 50
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 3/31/15
18
straight to you!
Hwy 47 & Pederson Drive, St. Francis, MN
4 Off
$ 00
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 3/31/15
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 3/31/15
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
East Bethel Royalty invites you to dinner
Daylight Savings Time
Begins March 8
Jean Johnson East Bethel Royalty
East Bethel Royalty would like to invite everyone to their Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction on Thursday, March 19, 5:308:00 p.m. at the East Bethel Senior Center, 2241 221st Avenue NE, which is connected to city hall. Have dinner, visit with friends, meet the royalty and bid on some fabulous silent auction items. Then come back the second Sunday of April for the seniors’ monthly pancake breakfast. We would be happy to serve you. Pictured (L-R) are Miss East Bethel Heather Rickbeil, East Bethel Little Miss Madison Hall and East Bethel Junior Princess Allisyn Hulst. Submitted Photo
Across from St. Francis High School in the St. Francis Mall
763-753-9720 Store HOURS: Monday-Friday • 8:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Saturday • 8:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m. Sunday • 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
763-753-2721 3745 Bridge Street • St. Francis, MN
12 Months preferred interest financing available!
Contact us for details.
Bryant Factory Rebates
1 300
$ , up to
*
Utility Rebates
805
$ up to
*
*On qualifying furnace, A/C & heat pump purchases.
100 Off
$
(Or A Free Filter) Furnace, Heat Pump or A/C Installation
Call Heating & Cooling Solutions for details at 763-434-8893 Offer valid on Bryant efficiency heat pumps, furnaces & AC install. Must be present at time of quote. Cannot be combined with any other offers or cash back rebates. Call for details.
Crafts, novelty, hardware, beauty, toys, wedding, latex balloons and much, much more! Store closing Saturday, April 4! Shop now for best selection.
Final Clearance
75% off
Effective March 1
“Meeting Your Comfort Needs” Heating & Cooling Solutions proudly accepts:
Contact us today at 763-434-8893 www.heatcoolsolut.com
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Inventory
While supplies last (Excludes helium balloons and cold pop)
19
We Are Hmong Minnesota Family Day Carline Sargent
About the event
ISD 15 Multicultural/Diversity Liaison, American Indian Homeschool
Independent School District 15 Multicultural/Diversity Program will be offering a field trip to the Minnesota History Center for all students, staff, parents and community members. Celebrate the contributions of the Hmong community with music and
dance performances, displays, fashion and multi-generational activities that highlight a rich and vibrant culture. See all the displays at the museum as time permits. Items and food may be purchased at the museum store and cafe.
Date: Saturday, March 7 Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Location: Minnesota History Center, St. Paul Fees: $6 for adults, $3 for students* grade 12 and under, FREE for children age 5 and under
Home Improvement & Service Guide Did you know...
Eagle Garage Door Co.
Blue Fin Pool & Spa has
been serving Andover and the surrounding area since 1991. Scot Brenner and his wife Cyndi founded Blue Fin Pool & Spa with the idea of total customer satisfaction, creating a company that provides a professional image that embraces honesty and a genuine concern for the needs of their customers. In 2008, a larger retail space was built at 13779 Ibis Street NW giving us the ability to show the complete line of spas, saunas, Primo Grills and pool products. The owners thank you customers and friends for their support and continued patronage.
St. Francis Residential Commercial • Industrial Springs Cables Openers Doors
Fixed right the first time!
763-753-2032
15% OFF All in stock Brighter Day and Thera Saunas.
Offer ends March 31, 2015.
Pool & Spa, Inc. 13779 Ibis Street NW • Andover 763-576-6636 • www.bluefinpools.com
Contact us today! 763-856-3936 www.ClaytonsRepair.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Call anytime day or night for emergency service and after hour appointments. Major Appliance Repair • Service • Installation
for windows & doors
Call us for free estimate – Windows – Siding – Roofing – Gutters – Bathroom – Kitchen And much more!
Locally owned, licensed, bonded and insured
Lic # BC637881
Phone 763-434-1500 www.myproexteriors.com 3645 Bridge Street St. Francis 763-753-1265 Like us on Facebook to find current in-store specials! www.stfrancishardware.com
makes yard clean-up easier!
Save $400
Buy one rake & receive one 5-Pack Paper Refuse Bags
FREE *
*Offer valid through 3/31/15. St. Francis True Value Hardware only.
Northstar Outdoors, Inc. Summer Lawn Professionals Lawn Mowing Lawn Edging Fertilizing Weed Control Commercial and Residential
612-710-7710
northstaroutdoors@live.com Licensed and Insured
Spring is coming! Advertise your business here for only $45. Send your information, with an additional feature you want readers to know about your business to janice.audette@isd15.org or call 763-753-7032 by the week of March 2 for the April issue. 20
Questions? For more information contact Carline Sargent at 763-213-1575 or email Carline.Sargent@isd15.org. For information about the Independent School District 15 Multicultural/Diversity Program, visit: www.isd15.org/diversity. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
St. Francis High School HOSA students dominate state competition Kathleen Weiland and Steven Fetzik SFHS Staff
Labor Costs
Infrared Saunas
• Accessories • Spas • Grills
Stay We repair and service cozy this gas fireplaces and furnaces. winter!
50% Off
MN Equipment Solutions
has changed their name to MINNESOTA EQUIPMENT. It is still the same locally owned group of five John Deere dealers, serving customers since 1916. All five stores changed to the new name in February. Customers will continue to find only top quality equipment including John Deere, Ariens, Stihl and more. They also provide parts and service for almost every make and model. Visit the new website address www.MinnesotaEquipment.com, for more information.
Residential & Commercial
Transportation:** A bus will leave from the St. Francis High School parking lot at 9:45 a.m. and will return by 4:00 p.m. Registration deadline: Monday, March 2 Registration forms: www.isd15.org/diversity. * All children age 12 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult. ** Bus transportation to and from St. Francis High School may be available if there is enough interest.
In mid-February, students from St. Francis High School (SFHS) competed in the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) MidWinter Competition. Participants from fifteen high schools in Minnesota attended. The SFHS team is made up primarily of students in the medical terminology and health occupations classes taught by Kathleen Weiland. The majority of the 300 competitors took very difficult written exams and each student’s rank was based on the results. Congratulations go to the following SFHS students who placed: Medical Terminology Andrew Bode - 1st place Dental Terminology Cassie Stierns - 1st place Medical Spelling Lindsey Chinander - 2nd place Medical Law & Ethics Kylie Almendinger - 3rd place Pathophysiology Andrew Bode - 1st place Eric Sturdevant - 3rd place Medical Photography Kaitlin McCann - 1st place Maddie Dreshar - 2nd place HOSA Bowl Kylie Almendinger, Andrew Bode, Kaitlin McCann and Cassie Stierns 1st place team According to the national website (www.HOSA.org), the organization is “a constantly expanding and improving series of health care related competitive events, designed for students interested in future health care occupations.” The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Get $10 off every order at the Saints online apparel store Rebecca Allard SFHS Business and Marketing Education Instructor
Exciting news for the Independent School District 15 spirit gear store. Get $10 off every order with a coupon code that never expires. Go to: www.mylocker.net/ minnesota/saint-francis/saintfrancis-high-school/index. html and type in coupon code 65eWeGpu for super savings. Purchase Saints apparel and gear online from MyLocker, the number one source for custom clothing, gear and accessories. In seconds, you can create your very own sportswear. Using simple
design tools, add text, graphics and images to shirts, hats, bags and more. All spirit wear comes in a variety of sizes for men, women and children, so you are guaranteed to find something for everyone! All items are custom made. Best of all, you can design your merchandise, pay online and have it shipped to your door. The design possibilities are endless! Design T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts and more to show off your Saints spirit. At MyLocker, you will only find high quality products from leading brands, such as Nike, Adidas, Gildan and more. Browse our selection of 100 percent customizable tee
shirts, knit polo shirts, cinch backpacks, zip-up hoodies, fashionable tote bags, fleece blankets, baseball caps, duffel bags, sweatpants, windbreakers and mesh sport jerseys, all made by top manufacturers. Make your own now or design
a personalized Saints gift for someone else!
There are many reasons to choose MyLocker for custom apparel. They print and embroider your design on only the best products. Items are triple checked to ensure the highest quality. Plus they offer generous bulk pricing options on orders of six or more of the same item. So show off your spirit and start creating custom apparel today.
North Country Construction & Remodeling, LLC Call now about… • Energy Efficient Windows • Siding & Roofing • Home Remodeling
Lucky you! Now enrolling preschool
FREE Registration
763-458-0715
www.ncconstruction.us Childcare Center 763-753-5010 www.kidscountrychildcare.com 23256 St. Francis Blvd. NW, St. Francis Proudly accepting Child Care Assistance
Financing Available! FREE Estimates
Dana Henjum
Lic. BC639606
For all your winter automotive needs! Highway 47 and Stark Drive St. Francis www.advancedautomotivecare.net
Springtime at Green Barn We have all your gardening supplies
Pruning Basics
Huge selection of seeds
Saturday, March 28 • 10:00-11:15 a.m.
• Flowers • Perennial • Vegetable • Herb • Organic Heirloom Seeds
Free Gardening Classes
763-753-8282
Courtesy shuttle provided to surrounding area.
I
Saturday, March 7 • 10:00-11:15 a.m.
Container Gardening For All Seasons
New Plant Fashion Show
Saturday, April 4 • 10:00-11:15 a.m.
Fairy & Miniature Gardening Basics
Saturday, April 11 • 10:00-11:15 a.m. Registration is required. Bulk vegetable Call for more information and to seeds sign up. Class descriptions can Planting supplies be found on our website.
E DG
CA
M
I BR
&
T AN
IS
EXPO
Saturday, March 21 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Isanti Intermediate School 101 9th Ave NE - Isanti
Free Admission — please bring a nonperishable food item for the local foodshelf Free Expo Bags— to the first 200 people Food Concessions Register for prizes at every booth Sponsored by
Green Barn Garden Center
& Farm Market
3 miles south of Isanti on Hwy. 65 & 265th Call or check website for current hours.
763-444-5725 greenbarngardencenter.com The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Vendors Wanted For registration information, contact 763-444-8515 or visit www.cambridge-chamber.com 21
Letter to the Editor Dear Editor and to all who care about our youth and health of our community: On May 22, 2014, there was an agreement with the St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) Community Education track program (averaging 82 participants/year over the last 10 years) to transition to a school-sponsored activity under the Minnesota State High School League Mississippi 8 Conference as a pilot program for spring 2015. The meet schedule was done and we were ready to go. At the end of January 2015, I was told there was no funding for the program, yet our School Board had agreed to approve a pay increase for themselves (1/16/15 Anoka County Union Herald article). ISD 15 is the ONLY school in the conference to NOT offer middle school activities/athletics for our students. SFMS programs were cut over 10 years ago. If you look at enrollment statistics, you see enrollment declining. There are many factors for this, but limited opportunity for these youth at a critical age of development does not help. We know that involvement in activities and athletics at a young age help youth practice responsibility, make healthy choices, stay active, perform better academically and care about others and the community. Why is this not a priority? Why cut this opportunity for these youth? There is more to this situation than can fit in a letter to the editor. We need to follow through on our commitments. Parents and community members can contact the school, SFMS Site Management Council, school board members and the ISD 15 acting superintendent to encourage positive change. Thank you. Barb Anderson Oak Grove community member, former coach, referee 763-360-2906
Greetings From The Capitol
Tom Hackbarth State rep. District 31B
Budget news, local bills and more to start the 2015 session Our top responsibility at the Capitol during the 2015 legislative session is to construct a new two-year state budget. The House, the Senate and the governor all issue their proposals and then the work begins to find an agreeable finished product. There will be areas of common ground among all three parties and other areas where gaps will need to be bridged. It is customary for the House and Senate to put forth their respective plans after receiving updated revenue information in the state’s February economic forecast. Governor Mark Dayton announced his budget recommendations in late January, serving as the starting line for budget work. The House and Senate are evaluating his proposal and scrutinizing the details in order to set the table negotiations. Some of the notable items in the governor’s plan include: Raising state general fund spending to $42 billion in 2016-17, a $3 billion increase over 2014-15 and a spike of around 20 percent from 2012-13, the first two-year budget with Dayton as governor. All Funds spending (which includes federal dollars) would jump from $70 billion in 2014-15 to $77 billion over the next two years. $903 million in new taxes over the next two years and $9 billion in tax increases pertaining to transportation over the next decade. The largest tax increase would add a 6.5 percent increase on wholesale gasoline. That translates to approximately 16 cents per gallon at current prices. Spending the $1 billion projected surplus. Committing $7 out of every $10 in state spending to either public school education (42 percent) or health and human services (28 percent). $11.7 million for MNsure $11.3 million for the Senate to fund rental payments for its under-construction office complex This budget work will ramp up the second half of the session, but I have been working on bills with local ties in the meantime. One of them is a request for funding to build a long overdue new bridge where Lake Drive NE crosses Interstate 35 near the border of Columbus and Forest Lake. Many constituents have expressed concern to me that a section of Columbus could be choked off for months on end if MNDot simply tears down the existing bridge and builds a new one. This would be damaging to businesses, cause headaches for drivers and could even present safety hazards by rerouting emergency vehicles. The proposal I have offered would build a new bridge next to the existing one. Once that work is complete, we could tear down the old one and replace it— giving us four lanes without having to cause such a disruption. Anoka County officials are on board with my plan and we will continue working on this project. A couple of important bills were put on priority status by the House this session and passed early. One provides flood relief to 47 counties—including Anoka— along with three Indian reservations. Other legislation we passed provides $20 million in tax relief when people file their forms this season by matching state provisions with federal language. The most significant deductions pertain to higher education, educator classroom expenses and mortgage insurance premiums.
Keep That New Year’s resolution Weight Loss • Stop Smoking/Chewing
• Stop Smoking immediately without withdrawal, cravings, or weight gain. • Lose Weight—stop cravings and obsessions with food. Get motivated to exercise.
Wednesday, April 9 at St. Francis High School
Can you really afford to keep smoking?
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
Register with ISD 15 Community Ed at 763-213-1640 Bring a pillow, blanket and sleeping bag for added comfort.
New Way Hypnosis Clinic, Inc. 320-255-9680 (Office) Dr. Mary Fischer, D.C.H.C.Ht. Doctor of Clinical Hypnotherapy Private therapy will be available at a higher cost, call 1-877-255-9680. Visit our website at www.hypnosisclinic.net
$
5000
per person, per group seminar
22
Testimonials 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 after one session, no cravings or withdrawal. It’s been 20 years now and still a non-smoker, thanks to this clinic.” - George P.
Guaranteed Lifetime (FREE reinforcement CD)
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
I Hate When That Happens
Randy Gerdin ASE certified technician
The lowly oil change
manufacturers have extended the oil change intervals from 3,000 miles up to 10,000 miles. A regularly scheduled oil There are many reasons for and filter change is one of this extension. Some involve the most frequent services environmental reasons. The performed on any piece of fewer times we change our equipment--car, truck, boat, oil, the less natural resources lawn mower, up to big diesel we use. It makes sense. All farm tractors and Caterpillars. manufacturers, in an effort They all require regular oil to sell more vehicles, have changes. Somewhere along the extended the service intervals line, this service has become so they can claim a lower cost so routine that we forget about of maintenance over the life of it. Our modern cars and trucks the vehicle. That makes sense even tell us when it is time to as well. have the service done with a I grew up with the notion service light on the dash. that every vehicle should have Over the years, vehicle an oil service done every 3,000 miles. I am aware of the great increases of technology in both manufacturing Oil change every of vehicles and in the development in better oil 3,000 miles? formulations. I, too, have extended my own service intervals. However, over the last few years, I have witnessed this trend and have seen people, who take a 6,000-mile interval, stretch it to
7,000 or 8,000 miles. We had a client come in with a vehicle logging over 12,000 miles since it was last serviced. The vehicle normally holds four quarts of oil, but only registered two quarts. We gently encourage folks to be more diligent about their regular service intervals. When regular oil service intervals get stretched out, so do all the other things that go with it, such as adjusting air pressure in the tires. We see many vehicles come in with low tires. That is also hard on the environment, as it wastes fuel. Vehicles come in with plugged air filters. We find numerous safety issues that people are not aware of, such as loose front end parts, lights burned out, worn belts, low coolant levels and so on. All these items are part of a professional oil change. One negative I have seen,
perhaps unique to the upper Midwest, is that we have such big swings in temperature, going from 100 degrees to minus 30. Other factors, such as increases in traffic congestion causing much more idle time and numerous short trips that do not let the engine get totally warmed up, lead to an unusual amount of engine sludge. In the oil crankcase, we have seen numerous problems with premature engine component failure due to sludge build-up caused by lack of oil changes. I know of one manufacturer that has a campaign to reprogram vehicles’ computers in cold states so the oil life monitor comes on sooner as a result of vehicles with major engine failure while still under factory warranty. I have seen and heard of numerous problems with camshaft issues because
the smaller oil passages are plugging up and not allowing oil to flow. I have seen problems with engine lifters getting gummed up and not functioning properly, causing an engine to misfire. I could go on and on. Many modern vehicles take full synthetic oils to help combat these problems. Full synthetic oil is more expensive and many people are not following manufacturer’s recommendations due to cost. They may get by for a while, but my feeling is that decision will catch up with them. My advice is to use the recommended (or better) oil and change it more frequently. Some related repairs are expensive and the warranty does not cover many of them. I hate when that happens. A word to the wise should be sufficient.
Services include: Individual Income Taxes • Business Taxes Tax Planning • Quickbooks & Peachtree Assistance
Sara Sauer C.P.A., LLC 14115 Lincoln Street, Suite 400 Ham Lake, MN 55304
Black
763-753-2164 Monday 1/2 Off 16 inch Pizza
_Pantone_BLK.eps _CMYK_BLK.eps _RGB_BLK.eps _RGB_BLK_Word.jpg _RGB_BLK_Screen.jpg
www.SauerCPA.com
Tax and accounting services for you and your growing business.
By appointment
Oak Grove, MN
Weekly specials
763-413-3390
763-772-5094
18919 Lake George Blvd. NW
MustariCPA.com Elaine@MustariCPA.com
National Spring
Savings Event
Tuesday Kids Eat Free with purchase of adult meal 5:00-10:00 p.m. Wednesday Buy One Burger, Get One 1/2 Off 5:00-10:00 p.m. Thursday 1/4 Pound Burger Basket only $5 6:00-9:00 p.m. Friday Prime Rib Dinner $18.95 starts 6:00 p.m. Meat Raffle 5:30 p.m. Live music 8:00 p.m. Saturday Bingo 2:00 p.m. every Saturday; First Saturday of the Month Bingo Bonanza Guaranteed $1,000 Giveaway; Meat Raffle 3:00 p.m.; Live music 8:00 p.m. Sunday Free Meat Raffle; Free pool all day!
763-753-4993 St. Francis • 3128 Bridge Street
March 1-April 15, 2015 Mail-in Rebates Up to $70.00 on select Cooper Tires.
Serving this community since 1977
www.gerdinauto.com
24 Hour Towing & Recovery 763-434-1686
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Dates booking fast! Let us plan your wedding reception, summer gathering, bike runs and more! Come check out our indoor and outdoor space (23 acres).
Coupon
Buy One
Cribbage Tournaments 1:00 p.m. Sign up at 12:30 p.m. New! Sunday-Thursday Late Night Drink Specials 9:00 p.m.-Midnight 23
Financial Focus
Blake Cheeley Edward Jones Financial Advisor
Are you following a “taxsmart” investment strategy? We’re getting closer to April 15: Tax Filing Day. While there may not be much you can do to change your results for the 2014 tax year, you can certainly look closely at your tax returns to find areas you might be able to improve next year—and one such area is your investment portfolio. Of course, you may also find opportunities in other places, too. Could you have taken more deductions? Could you have moved some of your debts into a tax-deductible loan, such as a home equity loan or line of credit? You’ll want to consult with your tax advisor to determine areas of potential savings. However, you may be able to brighten your tax picture by making some “tax-smart”
investment moves, such as the following: Resist the urge to trade frequently. It can be costly to constantly buy and sell investments. In addition to the commissions you may incur and the possibility that such excessive trading can impede a consistent investment strategy, you could rack up a sizable tax bill. If you sell an asset that you’ve held for a year or less, any profit you earn is considered a short-term capital gain, which is taxed at the same rate as your ordinary income. So, for example, if you bought Investment ABC for $1,000 on January 5, 2014 and you sold it for $1,250 on December 31, 2014, you’d be taxed on your $250 gain. If you are in the 28 percent tax
bracket, you’d owe $70 in taxes. But if you had waited until January 6, 2015 and you sold your investment for the same $250 gain, you’d pay the more favorable long-term capital gains tax rate of 15 percent, which translates into $37.50 in taxes—just over half of what you’d owe at the shortterm rate. If you habitually sold investments after owning them less than a year, the taxes could really add up—so try to be a “buy-and-hold” investor. Increase your 401(k) contributions. If you aren’t already participating in your 401(k) or similar plan, start now. And if you are contributing, boost your contributions whenever your salary goes up. You typically put “pretax” dollars in your 401(k), so the
Martha Weaver
Night of Destruction!
ANOKA COUNTY Public Information Manager Cambridge, MN • July 22-26, 2015
Saturday, July 25 • 7:00 p.m. Be a part of the Isanti County Fair’s Night of Destruction! Demolition Derby.
There are many fun races to compete in. Use that “not so great” car before it goes to the scrap yard! Check the fair’s website at www.isanticountyfair.com for information.
Derby Classes ~ Entry Fee ~ Prize Money All drivers who pre-register and participate in any Thursday, Friday or Saturday grandstand event will be entered in a drawing for $500. Trophies given up to third place and money to fourth. PRIZE MONEY is GUARANTEED for ALL classes! • 1980 & newer full-size chain stock class—$75 entry (45 vehicle max) 1st - $3,500 • 2nd - $1,000 • 3rd- $750 • 4th - $500 • Semi-stock compact trucks/SUV class—$45 entry (20 vehicle max) 1st - $1,000 • 2nd - $750 • 3rd - $500 • 4th - $200 • Full-size stock truck class—$45 entry (20 vehicle max) 1st - $1,000 • 2nd - $750 • 3rd - $500 • 4th - $200 • Powder Puff—full-size car class—$30 entry (20 vehicle max) 1st - $800 • 2nd - $500 • 3rd - $300 • 4th - $200 • Raffle Heat—mid-size front wheel drive, ONLY way in is by raffle win 1st - $500 • 2nd - $200 • Mad Dog—$100 and trophy in each feature Full-size chain stock will run three heats (w/45), consolation and feature. Other classes should be one feature, but could have extra heats if needed. Pit gates open at 1:00 p.m. Full-size chain stock cars must be checked in by 5:00 p.m. and through inspection by 6:00 p.m. or they will not run. All others must be inspected by 5:45 p.m. Fees increase after July 4 by $25 for full-size chain stock and by $15 for remaining classes. Entries are limited. Pre-register to reserve your spot. Gate entries will be accepted in all classes provided class is NOT full. You may also pre-register at East Central Jaycee July 4th Summer Blast Derby, if class is not full.
Complete information and special gate and grandstand ticket prices are available at www.isanticountyfair.com 24
your account at least five years and you are older than 59½. In 2015, you can contribute $5,500 to your IRA, plus an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution if you are 50 or older—and it’s almost always a good idea to “max out” your contributions each year. By following a buy-and-hold investment strategy and using those tax-advantaged accounts available to you, you may be able to help yourself—at tax time and beyond. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Test your home for radon
Isanti County Fair
Demo Derby
more you add, the lower your annual taxable income. Plus, your earnings can grow tax deferred. “Max out” on your IRA. Depending on your income level, you may be able to deduct some, or all, of your contributions to your traditional IRA—and these deductible contributions can lower your taxable income. Plus, your investment can grow tax deferred. (Keep in mind, though, that taxes will be due upon withdrawal and any withdrawals made before you reach 59½ are subject to a 10 percent IRS penalty.) If you contribute to a Roth IRA, your contributions are never deductible and won’t lower your taxable income, but your earnings are distributed tax free, provided you’ve had
Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that seeps up from the earth. Long-term exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer. In fact, radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Radon is present everywhere, but the greatest risk of exposure is indoors, especially in your home. In Minnesota, two in five homes have radon levels that pose a significant health risk. Homes with radon can be old or new, well-sealed or drafty, with or without a basement. Testing your home for radon is easy and inexpensive. Anoka County has residential radon test kits available for $5. To obtain a kit, go to anokacounty.us/radon or call 763-323-5722 for more information.
You talk. We listen. In person. Blake A Cheeley, AAMS® Financial Advisor
23306 Cree Street NW St. Francis, MN 55070 763-753-2988 Member SIPC
www.edwardjones.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
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Don’t be fooled by fake IRS emails or letters Roesner Tax & Accounting, LLC, Owner
Every year, taxpayers are bombarded with emails and letters claiming to be from the IRS and asking for personal information. The subject titles on many of these emails suggest the IRS is trying to contact you because they have a refund for you. These are commonly referred to as phishing scams. Phishing is a term used to describe emails that are “fishing for information” and “hooking” victims. The content of these messages “lure” readers into believing that the IRS needs information from them. The IRS has issued several recent consumer warnings on the fraudulent use of the IRS name or logo by scammers trying to gain access to consumers’ financial information in order to steal their identity and assets through emails and letters. These scam messages are used to trick readers into providing sensitive information. Fraudsters typically request bank information or credit card numbers so readers can “pay their tax due” or “receive their refunds.” Unsuspecting persons are now victims of identity theft. What do you need to know to keep safe? The IRS will never request financial information, passwords, PINs or any other sensitive information from you via email. The IRS sends paper notices to taxpayers to discuss tax account information. Never provide your bank information to someone via email! If you ever receive one of these phishing emails, do not reply! Do not open any attachments—they might contain malicious code that could infect your computer. Also, do not click any links provided in the email. These websites could also give your computer a virus or malware. Marianne Roesner at Roesner Tax & Accounting, LLC is an expert who keeps current on tax law changes as well as a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals, The Minnesota Society of Enrolled Agents and the National Association of Enrolled Agents. Marianne can help you respond to letters you receive from the IRS. Visit www.roesnertax.com for contact information. Source: Hickey and Hickey’s Blog, hickeyandhickey.wordpress.com
Lynn Karasch, MBA, CPA
Specializing in Individual & Small Business Returns By appointment Phone 763-413-3090 Fax 763-434-4739 www.ldkaccounting.com
Open year round for all of your accounting needs. • Accounting & Bookkeeping Services • Consulting • Payroll Services • Business Startup Services
Ta x P r e pa r at i o n
Valerie L. Temp Certified Public Accountant
Accounting and Income Tax Services Offered Year-Round for Individuals and Businesses
763-753-5521 Serving the St. Francis area since 1987
FTM Tax & Accounting James A. Jensen • Tax Preparation • Tax Management & Personal
Martha Weaver ANOKA COUNTY Public Information Manager
Marianne Roesner, EA
Farm, Business
Loans for private well and septic system repairs or replacement
Financial Planning Assistance
Accounting & Payroll
763-444-4856
Low interest loans are available to eligible property owners to repair or replace private well and septic systems under a program offered by Anoka County Community Development and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Best Management Practices Program (AgBMP). The program aims to fund projects that prevent or reduce water pollution. In Anoka County, eligible projects include repairing or replacing failed or failing septic systems and/or private wells and sealing wells that are no longer in use. The AgBMP loan program provides financing at below-market interest rates. Property owners who are current on their mortgage payments and property taxes are encouraged to apply. Loans will be repaid via a special assessment on the property tax statement through Anoka County. For more information or to obtain a loan application, go to anokacounty.us/cd or call 763-323-5722.
Sannerud, Savarese & Associates, p.a. Certified Public Accountants Specializing in accounting and taxes for closely-held and family-owned businesses since 1974. Tax season office hours through April 14 are: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Or by Wednesday and Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. appointment. Saturday 8:00 a.m.-Noon
763-434-5929
• www.sannerudsavarese.com
1207 Constance Boulevard NE • Ham Lake, MN 55304
KELLY’S TAX SERVICE Tax preparation for individuals, families and small businesses Up to date on new tax laws
763-753-2067 22491 Cedar Drive NW (Hwy. 13) • Bethel, MN 55005
Marianne Roesner, E.A. Roesner Tax & Accounting, LLC Income Tax and Accounting Services
763-753-5555 Member: NATP; NAEA; MNSEA
Enrolled to Practice Before the IRS 19531 Marigold Street NW • Oak Grove, MN www.roesnertax.com
And Associates Individual, Schedule C, Corporation, LLC, Business Start-Up Experienced Income Tax Preparation Call Jolynn at 763.434.5079 to schedule your appointment Appointments Available 7 Days a Week 8:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
21471 Ulysses St. NE • East Bethel, MN 55011 The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
• Business set-up • Financial reporting • Data entry and reconciliation • Payroll processing and tax reporting • QuickBooks & Peachtree set-up & training • Income tax preparation, business & personal
Walk-ins Welcome 25
Sports & Outdoors To The Goal
BARB ANDERSON nutritionist, referee, coach, Pact (parents and coaches together) presenter/Minnesota youth soccer association
What are our goals? Part of the definition of the word goal is “the terminal point of a race, the end to which effort is directed.” This can apply to a play performance, an athletic event, a school science project, a band concert or any number of activities. It can also apply to our community and how we want it to look in the future. Some goals are short term and some longer—from a running event of a 100-meter-sprint to 3,000 meters, from a child learning to recognize a single letter to reaching a goal of reading an entire book, from a teenager trying to leave a drug habit to actively participating in a community project.
Goals The recent one act play, The Brick and The Rose, performed by the St. Francis High School Theatre Department, along with the St. Francis Community Drug Awareness organization, reached an important goal—it connected the community’s need for alcohol and drug conversation with the school and students. Following the play a panel of students, parents and school counselors shared real-life stories and perspectives on the effect of alcohol and drugs on families in our community. This was an incredible conversation and an extremely successful event. A student’s opportunity to participate and perform in a variety of activities and athletics allows them to work toward their goal of reaching their individual potential as a person. These
opportunities also help them reach a goal as a positive contributor to society and to enjoy life to its fullest. As a school district and community, we need to ask ourselves, “What are our goals for our youth in our community?” “Are we offering healthy opportunities at various ages and stages of
development?” Are we progressing with those opportunities as they grow from elementary age to middle school age? We have a choice in where we put our limited resources toward our goals. What are our goals? Let’s keep the conversation going.
For all your Automotive Repairs & Maintenance St. Francis High School Theatre Department performed the one act play, The Brick and The Rose, on January 30 at the Performing Arts Center. Submitted Photo
Kraig Domogalla
21388 Johnson Street NE, 1 block W of Hwy. 65 & Sims Road in East Bethel 763-413-3445
All Appliance Disposal Recycling Appliances, Electronics & More
Residential & Commercial 18641 Hwy 65 NE, East Bethel
612-865-9570 www.AllApplianceDisposal.com
5 OFF
Bring this ad in and receive $5 Off your next disposal. Not valid with any other offer.
23168 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite #300 St. Francis
763.753.6019
Andover Family Eyecare 3480 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Suite #101 Andover
763.712.9854 Amanda Schmitz, O.D.
26
612-366-3925
$ 00
St. Francis Eyecare Jeffrey W. Williams, O.D.
“Your Real Estate Specialist”
Providers for EyeMed, VSP, Medica, BCBS, HealthPartners, Preferred One, Davis Vision and many more.
Email: kraigdomogalla@aol.com
Results
Each office Independently Owned and Operated
A 55+ rental housing community offering comfort and convenience at an affordable rate!
Less than 5 minutes from St. Francis and 15 minutes to Riverdale in Coon Rapids. Call
763-753-8385 for more information
21202 Old Lake George Boulevard Oak Grove, MN 55303
Great Mortgage Rates Now is the time to refinance or get pre-approved to buy. Start 2015 off right with a mortgage review and see how you may benefit with a refinance: - Pay off your home sooner - Reduce monthly payment - Cash out for projects or debt consolidation - Remove mortgage insurance - Pay off a second mortgage
Call now to take advantage of these excellent interest rates, 763-301-0530 or email eric.schmoll@amecinc.org.
Eric Schmoll NMLS 803271
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Complete Family Dentistry
ound R Lake
Dental
Dr. Thomas Swenson The St. Francis Traveling Basketball 8th grade blue team (above) and 6th grade blue team (right) took first place in the Braham Boys Basketball Tournament on January 25. The boys played hard to win their first of the season, first place trophies! Submitted by Jennifer Drohman
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
763-427-0285 • www.roundlakedental.com 13841 Round Lake Blvd. NW • Andover 2 minutes north of Highway 10 on Round Lake Boulevard
Open Evenings Nitrous Oxide Available Cosmetic Dentistry
27
St. Francis High School wrestling update Nate Beich SFHS Assistant Wrestling Coach and SFMS Math Teacher
The St. Francis High School wrestling team has been competing at a high level heading into the postseason with only team sections, individual sections and the state tournament left on the calendar. Since the last update, the Saints have been very busy with tournaments and duals each week. At a team tournament at Centennial on January 10, the Saints went 2-1 with victories over Champlin Park (41-24) and Rogers (54-16) before suffering a defeat to Centennial (35-24). They followed that performance with a team championship the next week at Champlin Park by going 3-0 and beating the Junior Varsity All-Stars (55-0), Maple Grove (62-7) and Big Lake (45-18). Between the tournaments were a number of exciting dual meets where the Saints wrestled hard in big wins against Princeton (45-27) and Cambridge (39-17) on senior night at home while dropping a match to St. Michael-Albertville (43-17). The Saints also wrestled in a few individual tournaments including 9th grade sections/state and hosted the Conference Individual Tournament in the gym. The four wrestlers who
qualified for 9th grade state were Luke Bonte, TJ Hogland, Tanner Kunshier and Luke Lipinski. The meet was highlighted with 5th place finishes by Tanner Kunshier and Luke Lipinski. Congratulations! Mississippi 8 Conference tournament wrestlers who finished in the top three of their brackets and earned allconference honors were Alex Wilson, Aaron Wilson, Mitchell Wilson, Daniel Worthington, Blaine Nordin, Lucas Sherburne and Mason Hall. Honorable mention finishers were Coleton Petrucci, Andrew Wasche, Tony Struntz, Tyler Dahlstrom, Cole Kirpach and Anthony Norman. The team tried to earn a birth in the state tournament February 13 during team sections but fell to St. MichaelAlbertville. Section 7AAA is generally regarded as the toughest section in the entire state of Minnesota, so whoever emerges from the section will be battletested and ready to do some damage in St. Paul. Individual sections will take place February 20-21 in Cambridge where the top two finishers from each weight class will advance to state. The Saints have a strong lineup and a great chance to advance wrestlers individually to compete at the Excel Center on February 26-28. Work hard and good luck wrestlers!
Aaron Wilson celebrates a huge 16-2 victory against previously undefeated Jake Allar of St. Michael-Albertville to claim the 138 pound conference championship. 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 • Make new 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…
32nd Season
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 28
• 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 Sunday nights. Limit of 14 teams. Show your high school spirit!
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
St. Francis High School golf teams prepare for upcoming season Girls golf hopes to build on strong 2014 season Brent Swaggert SFHS Girls Golf Coach
In the inaugural season of the Mississippi 8 Conference, the St. Francis High School girls golf team made a strong first impression. With a varsity team consisting of primarily juniors and sophomores, the Saints were able to win the East Division Championship. The junior varsity squad had a promising season as well with a number of younger golfers improving throughout the year. The varsity team was led by All-Conference performers Kalley Wagner, Maddie Weinman and Megan Grandstrand, all returning juniors to the program. Two time All-Conference Honorable Mention and senior captain Alex Hillesheim hopes to continue to lead by example and help the team take the next step this season and compete with the West Division and win the Mississippi 8 Conference title. Hillesheim said, “As a team, I think a great goal would be to win our conference. If everybody gives it their all, I really think it’s possible. Most importantly though, I want to be able to go out and play and just focus on having fun.” Both the varsity and junior varsity teams’ goals this season are to improve on last year’s finish and continue to get better in preparing for a strong finish at the 7AAA section tournament held at the end of May at Grand National Golf Course.
opportunity to head north to play Giant’s Ridge: Quarry and Legends and most importantly to get back to Grand National and make a bigger splash at section competition this year.
Second annual fundraiser/social The St. Francis High School girls and boys golf programs will once again be hosting a fundraiser/social event at The Refuge Golf Club in Oak
Junior All-Conference returner Maddie Weinman hopes to improve on a strong 2014 finish. Submitted Photos
Grove on Saturday, March 7 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 and include beverages and appetizers 6:00-7:00 p.m. with door prizes, games and raffles throughout the evening. With the purchase of a ticket you have a chance to win a free membership at The Refuge Golf Club (need not be present to win). If interested in attending, please contact Terry McMorrow 612-961-5780 or by email, tmgooseman@msn.com.
Senior Captain Alex Hillesheim tees off on the par 3 #6 at Grand National Golf Course during section 7AAA play in May 2014.
Insurance Matters
When it comes to insuring your family’s security, the right agent makes all the difference. Make sure you have the quality coverage your family needs by contacting me today for a free, no-obligation policy review and rate quote.
Ask about our Multi-Policy Discounts! Dependable local service Great low rates Customized plans
Boys golf prepares for success in 2015
St. Francis Insurance Agency Gary Zimmerman • 763-753-3595
Across from St. Francis High School Auto • Home • Business • Snowmobile • Risk • Recreation
Andrew LaHoud SFHS Boys Golf Coach
The St. Francis High School boys golf team is anticipating a very successful season with a senior-laden team led by senior captain Taylor McMorrow. Recently named junior captains Brady Arzdorf and Tanner Engberg are also eagerly awaiting the season to show improvements gained over the past summer and to establish themselves as top conference golfers. The 2014 boy’s junior varsity squad went undefeated in conference play and will be looking for many of these athletes step up to varsity competition this season. The team is also looking forward to having the
St. Francis Auto Parts Local one stop auto parts store with over 100,000 in stock parts and nationwide parts locating.
St. Francis vs. Anoka in the first annual ‘Battle of The Rum River’ meet at The Refuge. Kyle Wagner led the Saints with a 74.
St. Francis Youth Travel baseball 2015
Tryouts at St. Francis High School Gymnasium
or varsity baseball field in case of good weather
Saturday, March 28 13 & 14 year Olds 8:00-10:15 a.m. 11 & 12 Year Olds: 10:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. 9 & 10 Year Olds: 1:30-3:45 p.m.
Players must register by March 1 in order to tryout.
Paying $175 for most junkers!
Bonus for cars ’04 or newer!
763-753-4698
4140 St. Francis Blvd., just south of town on Hwy. 47 Family Run Business — Open 6 Days A Week Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. • Saturday 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
St. Francis High School boys golf team captains (L-R) Brady Arzdorf, Tanner Engberg and Taylor McMorrow prepare for sectional play at Grand National.
Coaches needed – visit www.stfrancisbaseball.org for an application Open to any player in Independent School District 15 Have other questions? View contact information at www.stfrancisbaseball.org 29
Congratulations to St. Francis High School Saints 9th grade wrestlers (L-R) Tanner Kunshier, Luke Lipinski, Luke Bonte and TJ Hoglund for participating in the 9th grade state wrestling tournament held January 31 at Champlin Park High School. Both Kunshier and Lipinski placed 5th at state. All four wrestlers earned their way to state by finishing in the top two of their 9th grade conference tournament, which was held at St. Michael-Albertville High School. Submitted by Tony Hoglund 3220 Bridge Street, Suite 107 in the St. Francis Mall
Call
763-753-1277 for an Appointment
Kendall W. Goodian, D.C. Chiropractic Orthopedist
Specializing in Sports, Industrial and Auto Accident Injuries
St. Francis Middle School came away with the wrestling championship at the eight-team tournament held in Chaska. Submitted Photo
St. Francis Middle School wrestling Tony Hoglund Wrestling parent
The 2014-15 St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) wrestling team completed its second consecutive undefeated season. This season’s schedule consisted of matches with teams and programs known to be among the best in Minnesota. Ending the year with a record of 17-0, the Saints
6/12
wrestlers have defeated the likes of Anoka, Blaine, Buffalo, Cambridge, Centennial, Chisago Lakes, Coon Rapids, Elk River, Jackson, Fridley, Westwood, Scott West and St. Michael-Albertville. In tournament competition, the Saints brought home three first place finishes. The first championship came by way of defeating Chisago Lakes at the Centennial Invitational. The
North Metro Soccer Association
Recreational Program Spring/Summer 2015 Registration closes on March 15. Traditional Recreational Program $115 Includes Full Uniform (ages as of 8/1/2014) Monday/Wednesday ages 4 & 5 (U6 co-ed) ages 6 & 7 (U8 boys) ages 8 & 9 (U10 girls) ages 10 & 11 (U12 girls) Tuesday/Thursday ages 6 & 7 (U8 boys and girls) ages 8 & 9 (U10 boys) ages 10 & 11 (U12 boys) ages 12-14 (U13-U15 co-ed) ages 15-17 (U16-U18 co-ed) The Recreational Program will stress basic soccer fundamentals. Practices will be held on one night and games on the other. Each team consists of one or two volunteer coaches and 10-14 players. Fields are located in Andover and Oak Grove. The season begins April 27 and ends on June 27 with the Jamboree.
Comp Prep Program
Mini Metros Program
$135 Includes Full Uniform Monday/Wednesday Ages 7 & 8 (U8 boys and girls) The Comp Prep Program is devised for Rec players that have some experience playing U8 Rec soccer and already exhibit strong soccer skills. It is also for players who want an increased level of training and more playing time in the Spring/ Summer and who anticipate playing Competitive Soccer the following year. There will be minimal additional fees (less than $50 for the season) to participate in up to four weekend Jamborees. See website for details.
$60 Includes Shirt Tuesday OR Thursday ages 3 & 4 (Birthday between 8/1/10 – 1/1/12) Introduction to soccer through trainer-led soccer related activities and games.
Register Online The registration fee will increase by $35 beginning March 1. Registration closes March 15.
Co-Coaches
Please consider volunteering as a co-coach. You will be making a big difference for youth and your child by volunteering with NMSA. Coaches will have the assistance of a NMSA sponsored trainer who will visit practices and games throughout the season. All coaches receive a $35 reimbursement on registration fees after the season ends. Please check the volunteer box to coach when you register your player. Thank you for making a difference.
More details, register online at northmetrosoccer.org Volunteering for positive youth development through soccer. 30
Saints second championship was earned in the fourteenteam Elk River-Salk Middle School tournament. In this tournament, the Saints defeated powerhouse St. Michael-Albertville. Lastly, in the championship of the eight-team Chaska tournament, the Saints once again defeated St. Michael-Albertville to take home the trophy. The SFMS wrestling program is funded independently from the school district. Without the continued support from our coaches and parents, none of this would be possible. We would also like to thank our high school program along with the continued support from our Gladiator Youth Program. In addition, a special thank you goes to parents Todd Grise and Raymond Bonte for their extended help during practices throughout the season. This season’s coaches are John Lorenzen, Andy Robinson and Mitch Hazelton. Thank you to our managers Alexis Ekstrom, Gracie Ridout, Sophie Ridout, McKenzie James, Gabby Cable, Morgan Nielson and Jocelyn Stewart. The SFMS wrestling team members are: Dalton Anderson, Weston Engel, Josh Ferguson, Kobe Becker, Brady Bigelbach, Zach Bonte, William Day, Zach Day, Brandon Denning, Matt Engel, Jake Elkin, Ryan Grise, Ben Hallin, Andrew Hoglund, Dom Levitt, Joey Lipinski, Parker Nelson, Ben Oren, Noah Patraw, Tate Skogquist, Alex Vandecar, Mike Wasche, Brandt Becker, Luke Bonte, Brady Dahlstrom, Jake Ferguson, Tommy Ficocello, Nick Gerlach, Calvin Grise, Preston Lane, Justin Lian, Kyle Lindenfelser, Jaden Meadows, Dan Pearson, Zach Pogorelec, Case Sharp, John Sigfrinius and Zach Stewart.
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Life
Meetings, Benefits & Events
Nowthen Alliance Church PrimeTime Ministry movie afternoon Nowthen Alliance Church
Nowthen Alliance Church PrimeTime Ministry will show the movie Home Beyond the Sun on Thursday, March 19 at 1:00 p.m. Finger food and popcorn will be served. This event is a free-will offering and a non-perishable foodshelf item will be accepted. All are welcome. Home Beyond the Sun takes place in present day China and narrates the experiences of a Bible college student who travels there to teach English for a semester. While there, Jenna (Melysse Ade) meets an eight-year-old Chinese orphan, Chu Lee (Molly Sayer). In the movie’s opening flashback,
Births Mia Jo Beard was born on January 21, 2015. She weighed 6 pounds, 1 ounce and was 19 inches long. Proud parents are Lynnay Anderson and Randy Beard of Princeton. Mia is welcomed by siblings Sean and Esibella. Kinsley Grace Sufka was born on January 23, 2015 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces and was 20½ inches long. Proud parents are Bill and Emily Sufka of East Bethel. Kinsley is welcomed by siblings Alexis and Chase. Corbin Snow Oelrich was born on February 5, 2015 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces and was 21 inches long. Proud parents are Sarah Spar and Devin Oelrich of Isanti. Corbin is welcomed by siblings Raelynn, Isaac and Chloe. Violet Anne Ortler was born on February 8, 2015 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 9 pounds, 5 ounces and was 19 inches long. Proud parents are Kayli Schaaf and Brett Ortler of Isanti. Violet is welcomed by sibling Oliver. Dakota Marie Davis was born on February 9, 2015 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 5 pounds, 9 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parents are Glenn and Miranda Davis of Cambridge.
we learn that Chu Lee’s mother gave birth to her out of wedlock and without a birth license. Her father reported her to the state who, when they come to arrest the mother, unnecessarily kills her with a rifle from close range. Chu Lee is left in the care of a private orphanage and the story picks up eight years later when Jenna arrives in China. The movie is earnest in its attempt to inform us about the persecution of Christians in China, about the plight of unwanted children languishing in orphanages and about the practical value of living life and making decisions based on a Christian worldview. The characters encourage one another to “trust in God,” remind each
To Your Health
Allison Laird Certified Medical Assistant, NeoPath Health
Pay attention to your heart
Internet photo
other of the “power of prayer,” to desire “what God wants,” and to realize that we’re all “a part of God’s plan.” Nowthen Alliance Church is located on 19653 Nowthen Boulevard NW at the intersection of Anoka County Roads 5 and 22. The movie will be shown in the Youth Room (Door C - above Koinonia Kafe). For more information, contact the church office at 763-441-1600 or Helen at 763-753-1267.
Long Lake
Lutheran Church Lent Services Wednesday, February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25 Service at 7:17 p.m. • Soup Supper at 5:30 p.m.
Holy Week Maundy Thursday, April 2 • Service at 7:17 p.m. Good Friday, April 3 • Service at 7:17 p.m. Easter Sunday, April 5 Services at 8:00, 9:30 & 10:45 a.m. • Breakfast
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one killer of men and women in the US. CVD includes conditions like heart attack and stroke. Symptoms of CVD can vary depending on the type of heart disease but can include chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden onset of numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, difficulty speaking or even fatigue. Risk factors for CVD include, but are not limited to: } Age } Race/ethnicity } Family history } Obesity } Poor diet/lack of exercise
} Stress } Tobacco use } Diabetes } High cholesterol } High blood pressure Although we cannot control certain risk factors, such as our age or family history, we can manage health conditions including diabetes and high blood pressure that may increase the risk of CVD. The first step is to know your numbers. Have a check-up to test your blood pressure, blood sugar (to check for diabetes) and cholesterol. If you use tobacco, quit! We are here to help. Engaging in regular physical activity and fueling your body with hearthealthy nutrition is also key. Check out www.heart.org for more information and heart-healthy recipes.
Living Hope
Evangelical Free Church
Sundays 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Join us each Sunday for worship, fellowship and education. Worship Services 8:00 & 9:30 a.m. Education/Sunday School Hour 9:30 a.m.
3921 277th Ave NW, Isanti, MN, 763-444-5315, www.longlakeluth.org
Our Saviour’s
ELCA
Helen Peterson
PAGE 32
Lutheran Church & Preschool Following Jesus, we Worship, Learn, Serve, Invite and Connect. Sunday Worship Schedule 8:00, 9:15 & 10:45 a.m.
Wednesday PowerUp Service
23038 Rum River Blvd. NW Just west of St. Francis High School Children’s, Youth & Adult Ministries
www.LivingHopeEFC.org 763-753-1718
PrimeTime Ministry’s Movie Day Home Beyond the Sun Thursday, March 19 1:00 p.m. • Finger food and popcorn • Free will offering and non-perishable foodshelf item accepted. Community Welcome!
Please join us on Palm Sunday, March 29. Pastor Kuhn’s message will be, The lamp and light of God’s Word.
Sunday Services 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 9:45 a.m. Sunday School including adult classes 11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship
at 6:30 p.m. Dinner served at 5:30 p.m.
Lenten Worship Services Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.
Join Us!
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
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
31
Meetings, Benefits & Events City of East Bethel Pet Clinic Carrie Frost City of East Bethel Administrative Coordinator
The City of East Bethel will hold a Pet Clinic at the East Bethel Ice Arena, 20675 Hwy 65 NE, on Saturday, March 21, 9:00 a.m.-Noon. All communities are welcome. Vaccinations and tests are available for dogs and cats. Heartworm and flea/tick products will be sold at this event. East Bethel dog licenses will be available at no cost with proof of rabies vaccination. Visit www.ci.east-bethel.mn.us for more information.
Blood Drive Karen Koch Red Cross Coordinator
The Red Cross will be having a blood drive on Monday, March 16, 1:00-7:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church 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.
School District ISD 15 SCHOOL Board Meetings: March 9 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m., March 23 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. at Central Services Center, Community Room, 4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St. Francis.
SFHS All Night Party 2015 St. Francis High School Senior All Night Party will be held at Blainbrook in Blaine after graduation on Friday, May 29. Parents and community members are encouraged to volunteer. Contact Michelle Wenker, volunteer coordinator, at wmichellejim@aol.com for more info. Monthly meetings are scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at the Oak Roads Grille & Bar in Oak Grove. Dates are: March 5, April 2; May dates are yet to be determined.
Business Edward Jones Coffee Club meets the second Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. at Bridge Street Coffee Box and Sweet Shoppe, 22973 Rum River Blvd. in St. Francis.
32
AA
Seniors
AA Meets at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m.
AA/NA AA/NA Meetings at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in East Bethel. NA on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., AA on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., NA on Fridays at 6:30 p.m.
Chamber of Commerce St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast with the Chamber is March 11 at Opp Family Chiropractic, 23671 St. Francis Boulevard NW, Suite 102 in St. Francis, 8:00-9:00 a.m. The next Board of Directors meeting is March 18, 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.
American Legion American Legion Auxiliary Unit 622 – St. Francis General membership meets monthly on the third Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. All members of the auxiliary are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234. American Legion Post 622 – St. Francis General membership meets monthly the second Thursday at 7:00 p.m. All members of the post are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.
Health & Fitness Tops Chapter MN #1774 meets every Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m. at the St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street N. TOPS stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly and is a weight loss support group. Check out a meeting or visit www.tops.org. Long Lake Lutheran Church invites you to join us for GriefShare Wednesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. Free. We are located five miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47. For more information please contact Sharon Sudeith at 763-444-4483, or you can go to: www.longlakeluth.org. For general information on the GriefShare program, visit www.griefshare.org.
Service Group St. Francis Area Women of Today meet the first Tuesday of the month at the Anoka Hennepin Credit Union, 23280 St. Francis Blvd. NW in St. Francis. Social time is 6:30 p.m. with the meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Women of Today, visit us at www.sfawt.org or call Dana at 763-753-5010.
Online
By Phone
www.the-courier.org 24-hours-a-day
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
763-753-7031
Lions
Oak Grove Seniors meet the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at noon for a potluck and a short business meeting. Bingo follows each business meeting. For information about the club and events, call Marion Schulz at 763-444-5652. 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. East Bethel Seniors Have fun dancing with us! Dances are held 1:00-4:00 p.m. Old time music will be played by Dick Szyplinski on Friday, March 6. No dance will be held in April. The cost is $5 and includes lunch. All are welcome. No pancake breakfast scheduled for March. Seniors meet the third Thursday of each month for business meeting and catered noon lunch, 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.; second Wednesday of each month is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon w/potluck at noon; fourth Wednesday is crafts only, 9:00 a.m.noon. Cribbage once a month, call Barb for date/time 763-434-6179. We also go on tours, etc. The East Bethel Senior Center is available for rent, call Dennis 763-434-9244. Are you 55 or older, bring your spouse and come and enjoy some companionship. All are welcome. Join East Bethel Seniors for $7 a year and receive a monthly newsletter. The East Bethel Senior Center located one mile east of Highway 65 on 221st Avenue in East Bethel.
Lioness CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONESS CLUB meets the first Thursday of the month at the 6:00 p.m. Ham Lake VFW. For membership information call Marilyn Kappelhoff, 763-434-6599. We Serve! St. Francis Lioness Club meets monthly. First Wednesday, administrative board and third Wednesday, general membership meeting at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are held at St. Francis City Hall, 23340 Cree Street. For more information, call Jean Schuldt at 763-753-1205 or Mary Madden at 763-444-5020.
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
Oak Grove Lions meet every second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. adjourning at 8:00. For more information, call Lion Mark Silvernagel at 763-753-2215. NOWTHEN LIONS CLUB Are you looking to serve in your community of Nowthen? Meet new friends? Have a lot of fun? Come join the Nowthen Lions Club! The Nowthen Lions meet on the first Thursday of the month for the board meeting and on the third Thursday of the month for the membership meeting. Please call Patty Wirz at 763-241-1341 or email at nowthenlions@yahoo.com. CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONS CLUB meets bimonthly, first and third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., at Hunters Inn. Call Ruth Larson at 763-434-9423. St. Francis Lions Club meets three times during the month at the St. Francis American Legion. First Wednesday board meeting; second Wednesday regular business meeting; fourth Wednesday social and program. All meetings start at 7:00 p.m. and adjourn at 8:15 p.m. Call Lion Kevin Schuldt for more information at 763753-1205 or visit www.stfrancismn. lionwap.org.
Recreation & Hobby A new neighborhood group of the American Sewing Guild is meeting the second Tuesday of the month, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in East Bethel. Come share sewing successes, challenges and ideas. The American Sewing Guild is a non-profit organization that promotes home sewing. For more information, go to ASG.org or contact Julie at 763-4349143 or jmaurer.3962214@gmail.com.
City & Township Andover City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 1685 Crosstown Blvd. NW, Andover, 763-755-5100 Bethel City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Thursday 7:00 p.m., 23820 Dewey Street, Bethel, 763-434-4366 Nowthen City Council—Meets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 19800 Nowthen Blvd. NW, Nowthen, 763-441-1347 East Bethel City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday 7:30 p.m., 2241 221st Ave. NE, East Bethel, 763-367-7840 Oak Grove City Council—Meets 2nd & last Monday 7:00 p.m., 19900 Nightingale St. NW, Oak Grove, 763-404-7000 St. Francis City Council—Meets 1st & 3rd Monday 6:00 p.m., ISD 15 Central Services Center, St. Francis, 763-753-2630 Stanford Township Board—Meets 1st Monday, 7:00 p.m., 5050 261st Avenue NW, Isanti, 763-444-6370 The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Expect a Miracle!
Pet Corner
Dr. Amy Morgan Oak Grove Animal Hospital, Owner machine and plain hot water to remove the soap or chemicals. Dust allergy would require allergy testing or a medication trial to diagnose. Stop new food or treats to see if that may be the cause.
Question My dog has dry itchy skin. He occasionally gets rashes, bumps or hot spots. This especially happens in the winter. What can I do? Answer There can be many causes for skin problems. The low humidity in winter may contribute; however, other considerations would be: allergies to something in the environment like dust, new foods or contact irritation from things like new bedding or new laundry soap or fabric softener used to wash dog bedding. Wash dog bedding only in plain hot water with no soap or fabric softener just in case this is the source of irritation. If skin changes happened after carpet treatments were done, you can use a carpet cleaning
Many types of skin irritations can be helped by regular bathing with a soap-free or hypoallergenic shampoo. There are also several over-the-counter fatty acid supplements made for dogs that help by providing extra oils to counteract dryness but also to help decrease skin inflammation. These products can be found at your veterinarian’s office or a pet supply store. Lastly, antihistamines like Benadryl and chlorpheniramine can help relieve mild itchiness. Check with your vet for a dosage for your dog. And if skin problems persist, see your veterinarian.
Pastor Jeff Bergman New Life Church
Come and hear the miraculous story of Bruce Van Natta. Bruce Van Natta, a renowned speaker and author of Saved by Angels and The Miraculous Life is coming to New Life Church. In 2006, Van Natta was crushed underneath a logging truck and was on the verge of death. He has an amazing, riveting testimony, which encourages everyone to deal with their eternal destiny! Van Natta will be coming to New Life Church to speak Saturday, March 14 at a teaching seminar from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. On Saturday March 14, there will be a Worship and Healing Service beginning at 6:00 p.m. On Sunday, March 15 Van Natta will speak during the worship service at 9:00 a.m. There will be no cost for these events but a free will offering will be taken for Van Natta and his ministry. All are welcome and invited to attend. Expect an extraordinary encounter with God and believe in a miracle. If you would like to find out more information about Van Natta, you can check out his story at www.sweetbreadministries.org or call Pastor Jeff Bergman at New Life Church at 763-753-5717. Visit the church website at newlifeoakgrove.org.
File Photo
Child Care Center We Have Infant Openings! Now Taking Enrollment Both Locations, All Ages East Bethel
763-434-1980 Isanti
763-444-3774 Call for Employment Opportunities
HELP WANTED
Kennel Assistant, experienced/ part-time. Call 763-753-5450.
Award Winning Boarding – Grooming – Training
Going on vacation?
If your pets could talk, they would insist on…
You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:
Every 13th day is always FREE!
6560 Norris Lake Road Elk River, MN 55330 (Nowthen) www.goldstarkennelsofmn.com
● are at least 18 years of age ● have chronic plaque-type psoriasis that was diagnosed at least 6 months ago ● have ongoing moderate-to-severe symptoms ● have never had tuberculosis (TB). The study will last for approximately 55 weeks and will include up to 29 visits to the study center. Study medication and medical care may be provided at no cost to you and reasonable travel and parking costs may be reimbursed.
The Star Newspaper Reader’s Choice Award 2013 & 2014 Best Boarding & 2013 Best Grooming
5 Off Grooming at Gold Star Kennels
7205 University Avenue NE Fridley, MN 55432 Steven Kempers, M.D. For more information, please call
50 Off Training at Gold Star Kennels $
Limit one per family. Not good with any other offers or discounts. 763-753-5450 • Expires 3/31/15
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
763-502-2941 Courier 3/15
Courier 3/15
$
Add ons, matt charges, etc., still apply, ask for details. Limit one per family. Not good with any other offers or discounts. 763-753-5450 • Expires 3/31/15
An investigational medication is being tested that could improve your symptoms in a similar way to an approved treatment for plaque-type psoriasis. All patients participating in the study will receive the investigational medication and/or an established biologic treatment for plaque-type psoriasis.
Book soon—filling up doggone fast!
763-753-5450
Have you been diagnosed with plaque-type psoriasis, but still experience symptoms despite treatment? Participating in a new clinical research study of a biologic treatment may be the right approach for you!
33
Master Gardener
Carol bray Isanti county master gardener
Pruning or tree mutilation? It is that time of year to check if your fruit trees need pruning. You should prune apple and other fruit trees in the winter months—before the buds break and growth begins in early spring. Aside from pruning, there are other “cuttings” that can be performed on trees. Let’s get technical. Pollarding When someone cuts a tree
699
½ Rack $ Rib Dinner ��������
Includes garlic toast and fries Expires 3/31/15. One coupon per order. Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery. Coupon good at Tasty Pizza in St. Francis.
down to its base to produce wood for firewood, fence posts, etc., they are pollarding. Another definition of pollarding is to dramatically cut back the limbs of a tree. This type of pollarding originated in France. Eventually a pollarded tree develops a stubby, gnarled appearance which some people like. A pollarded tree is very high maintenance. Not every tree can take this
type of pollarding. I wouldn’t recommend it. Coppicing Coppicing has become very popular in the last couple of decades. This involves trimming back to the main trunk to produce a small “lollipop” style tree. Coppicing is done to keep a tree small and for cosmetic purposes. Coppicing gives a tree a manicured look when done properly.
Tasty Pizza St. Francis Mall • Bridge Street in St. Francis
5 Off
$ 00
any purchase of $25 or more
763-753-4988
Sun/Mon/Tues 2:00-9:00 p.m.; Wed & Thurs 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Fri & Sat 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.
Topping You will see many trees topped under power lines. A tree reacts to topping by putting all its energy into creating new leaves. Some topped trees live for a while, but they will all die a slow (or fast) death. (Don’t do this at home!) If you’re looking for an unusual tree, you may be able to obtain it simply by pruning a quite ordinary tree in a not so ordinary style. I’ve seen this unique pruning done with different types of the Pinus genus at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chanhassen. I strongly recommend you take a half day (or longer) trip to this venue to view some really gorgeous, some funky and unique examples of evergreen trees. For more information, visit Isanti County Master Gardeners website at www. isanticountymastergardeners. com, the University of Minnesota Extension website at www.extension.umn.edu or
This is an example of topping a tree usually done by utility companies. Photo Katie Himanga, CF, Goodhue/ Wabasha MG, ISA Certified Arborist
call the Isanti County Master Gardeners at 763-689 8254. You can also find us on Facebook at Isanti County Master Gardeners. Save the date of Saturday, March 21 for the Isanti County Master Gardeners horticulture day, Burst into Spring!
Expires 3/31/15. One coupon per order. Void with other offers. Coupon good at Tasty Pizza in St. Francis.
Buy any Pasta, get the second $ Pasta for ��������������
2015 Goal 679
399
51 Tons
Expires 3/31/15. One coupon per order. Must purchase two. Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery. Coupon good at Tasty Pizza in St. Francis.
Recycled in January St. Francis has recycled 51 tons in 2015 so far.
Two large, two topping $ pizzas ��������������������
22
Family Deal any large two topping pizza an order of cheese bread and a liter of pop
1999
$
Expires 3/31/15. One coupon per order. Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery. Coupon good at Tasty Pizza in St. Francis.
Come in for our Lunch Specials and get your lunch card punched.
5 Off Express Gasolines ¢
Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store. Expires 3/31/15 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.
5 Off Express Gasolines ¢
Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store. Expires 3/31/15 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.
34
Expires 3/31/15 X1001 Expires 3/31/15 X1001
Expires 3/31/15. One coupon per order. Must buy two. Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery. Coupon good at Tasty Pizza in St. Francis.
Tons
Lunch Specials
Lunch Buffet....... $599 All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti.............. $595
Car Wash Save 30% with 10-Count Car Wash Cards
$
$ 10-Count Prices
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
Check out our Discount Cards Car wash pre-paid cards make perfect gifts for friends, gift exchanges, birthdays and more!
Save 20%
Check out our new gas pumps and entryway!
with 5-Count Car Wash Cards
63
36
$
56
32
$ 5-Count Prices
www.kingscountymarket.com 23122 St. Francis Boulevard NW St. Francis 763-753-3334 Open Seven Days A Week Monday-Saturday 5:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Sunday 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
Faith Listings
Fitness Matters
Melissa Enzler St. Francis Anytime Fitness, Owner
Question Since retirement, I have more time on my hands and want to devote a few days a week to working out. But, I’ve never worked out before. Can you give me some advice to help me get started so I do not injure myself? Answer This is a question we are hearing more often because so many insurance companies offer free membership programs to seniors. Anytime Fitness clubs honor these programs and we are happily seeing more seniors in our facilities. They are realizing the equipment is easy to use and they feel so much better, mentally and physically, even when choosing to work out only a couple of days a week. One of the easiest ways to avoid injury when beginning a fitness program is to first get clearance from your physician. It’s important, especially if you have been sedentary, to know what you can do based on your current health, age and overall physical condition. Next, once you find an activity that you enjoy, make sure to take time to warm up properly to help lubricate joints and slowly increase the demand on the heart and lungs for more intense exercise. If it’s cardio you’re doing, begin slowly and then increase the speed. If it’s a weight workout, lighter weight and
smaller range of motion will be appropriate for the warm up. You will want to progress slowly with your exercise goals, as the risk of injury is higher when you do too much, too soon, too fast. Remember, fitness is a lifelong journey! Lastly, stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps regulate heart rate and core temperature, as well as replenish lost fluids from exercise. Check with your local fitness center to see if they have personal trainers to help guide you. They are a very good resource to be able to get you started on a healthy path that works for you as an individual.
Easter Bingo St. Francis Lions The St. Francis Lions will hold an Easter Bingo March 20 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis American Legion. Local businesses are asked to sponsor one of the Bingo games for $50 each. During the game, the business will be promoted. Businesses can also add promotional products for their game. Please call 763-753-1265 if you would like to donate. Hams will also be given away during the evening.
Mercy Hospital receives Joint Commission certification for hip and knee replacements Newsroom www.allinahealth.org
Mercy Hospital has received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for the Total Joint Replacement Program’s hip and knee replacements. Certification is earned by demonstrating compliance with the commission’s national standards for health care quality and safety. “Mercy’s Joint Commission certification for hip and knee replacements recognizes our culture of excellence and innovation in the care of the hip,” says Orthopedist David Edwards, M.D., chairman of Mercy’s Orthopedic Department. Therapists from Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute provide assessment and intensive inpatient rehabilitation to help patients regain mobility and safely perform activities of daily living.
Let your pet relax with us when you go on vacation. Ask about dog and cat grooming!
Mercy’s Joint Replacement Program is also recognized as a Blue Distinction Center for knee, hip and spine surgery by BlueCross BlueShield of Minnesota. A team of Joint Commission expert surveyors evaluated Mercy for compliance with standards of care specific to the needs of patients and families, including infection prevention and control, employee training, leadership and medication management. The certification award recognizes Mercy’s dedication to continuous compliance with the Joint Commission’s state-of-the-art standards. The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification Program evaluates three core areas: compliance with national standards, effective use of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to manage and optimize care and an organized approach to performance measurement and improvement.
Abundant Life Alliance Church 3840 197th Avenue NW Oak Grove • 763-753-0284 www.AbundantLife4U.org
New Life Church 17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW Ramsey • 763-421-0166 www.newlifemn.org
Bethel Community Church 23860 Dewey Street NW Bethel • 763-434-9834 www.bethelschurch.org
Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel • 763-434-6117 www.oursaviourslc.org
Cedar United Methodist Church 17541 Jefferson Street NE Ham Lake • 763-434-7463 www.cedarumc.org
St. Francis United Methodist Church 3914 229th Avenue NW St. Francis • 763-753-2273 www.stfrancis-umc.com
Cross of Hope Lutheran Church 5730-179th Lane NW Ramsey • 763-753-2057 www.crossofhope.net
St. Patrick Catholic Church 19921 Nightingale Street NW Oak Grove • 763-753-2011 www.st-patricks.org
First Baptist Church & Christian School K–12 22940 St. Francis Boulevard St. Francis • 763-753-1230 www.fbcsaintfrancis.com
The Bridge Church 6443 Norris Lake Road Nowthen • 763-516-5995 www.sfbridge.org
Living Hope Evangelical Free Church 23038 Rum River Boulevard St. Francis • 763-753-1718 www.LivingHopeEFC.org
West Bethel United Methodist Church 1233 221st Avenue NE Cedar • 763-434-6451
Long Lake Lutheran Church 3921 277th Avenue NW Isanti • 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.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
We are now offering Pet Wellness packages!
• 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
Bring in this ad for
00 15 off any exam
$
Offer expires 3/31/15. One coupon per customer, per visit.
Two miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47 Visit us on the web at www.sfvetclinic.com
Ask Fido:
What makes Fido’s your favorite home away from home?
“Easy. Four free walks a day, every day I’m here!”
More personal care boarding perks:
10% Off for new Grooming Customers!
• $18 per day plus a multi dog discount • Pick-up/drop-off 365 days a year • 24 hour on-site care • Maintaining Fido’s routine of pottying outside—we’re not in the business of starting bad habits • Free medication administration
Fido’s Barber Shop 19847 Orchid St. NW, Oak Grove
19035 Lake George Amy Morgan, D.V.M. Boulevard NW Lisa Johnson, D.V.M. Oak Grove, MN Kaija Youngner, D.V.M. 763-753-6336 Dawn Price, D.V.M. www.oakgrovevet.net Alyssa Ziche, D.V.M. The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org
All Breed Professional Dog Grooming and Personal Care Boarding Day and Evening Appointments
763-213-8143 www.fidosbarber.com
35
St. Francis High School Drumline 2015 season update Chad Armbruster SFHS Band Director
St. Francis High School’s Indoor Drumline is entering its second season as a competitive member of the Minnesota Percussion Association. The group has grown from 18 to 30 participants. This year’s group will compete in seven shows across the state of Minnesota, leading up to the Minnesota Percussion Association finals to be held at St. Cloud State University on Saturday,
March 28. Last year’s group finished fourth in their class and this year’s group is looking to improve on that placement with their 2015 show titled, “An Olympic Journey.” First year Drumline Director David Palermo has composed and arranged a show that is custom-made to fit the ability levels of each student in the group. Palermo has been an instructor and arranger of drumlines for many years. “I started teaching my senior
year of high school when I asked my instructor if I could intern with another group. Shortly after, he accepted a different job which left me as the only instructor at the school. It was an awesome experience and I learned so much that season. Since then I have instructed and designed shows for drumlines at Anoka, Coon Rapids, South St. Paul, Eagan and Irondale high schools. I continue to teach because I enjoy seeing
The St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce is looking for businesses, community members, students, booster clubs and church groups to volunteer, participate and contribute to ensure a successful Pioneer Days.
Participate ´ Have a booth in Community Park— businesses, food vendors, crafters and non-profit organizations
Volunteer & Contribute June 5-7, 2015 Presented by the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce
Many
´ Donate toward or hands will make sponsor an event and the work promote your business. lighter! ´ Cleanup is needed all weekend—great way to fulfill service hours or give back! ´ Give us your ideas!
s y a D r e e n o i
P s i c n a r F . St 2015 , 7 5 e n Ju
Business Exhibition
PARADE
Enter your business or group to march in the Pioneer Days Parade!
Gabe Tronson and John Haugen performing their tenor drum feature in competition. Submitted Photo
Win a $100 Visa Card*
Submit entry by Friday, March 20 Email to: pd.button@stfrancischamber.org In person or mail to: 23847 Johnson Street NE, Suite 2 East Bethel, MN 55005 Questions, call 763-753-6614 * Sponsored by David Johnson, Highland Money Management
Watch for info and upcoming meetings on Facebook and the chamber website. Click on Pioneer Days.
For more information, visit www.stfrancischamber.org or call 763-438-5163 36
like a family. With this year’s show, I have my work cut out for me, but I also think it’s really fun to see yourself accomplish what you have done from day one until now,” said Arnold. Erin Mitzuk, a trumpet player in the SFHS band, marches with a snare drum in this year’s indoor drumline show. “I enjoy the opportunity to perform with a new instrument and improve my skills with rhythm. I like this year’s show theme—it is lots of fun and there are many opportunities for creativity.” The SFHS Indoor Drumline members are off to a great start for the 2015 season and are excited to build on what was established in 2014. The drumline is an extension of the SFHS band program and is supported by the activities department and band boosters. Without the support of administration and many volunteers, students would not have the opportunity to perform and represent SFHS.
te a p i c i art P | e ibut r t n | Co r e e t Volun Button Design New Contest this year Booth vendor space will be available in Community Park on Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.
students grow musically and mature as individuals. I also appreciate how much I learn from students, whether it’s feedback on how I can improve as an instructor or simply understanding how to teach better,” commented Palermo. He went on to explain this year’s show theme, An Olympic Journey. “This show is designed to take the audience through the opening ceremonies, a few specific Olympic events and finishes with the awards ceremony. I am very excited for the level of execution the students have already achieved and I can’t wait to finish this season and see how much further they can go!” Emma Arnold and Erin Mitzuk, first year members are enjoying the journey. “What I enjoy about being in drumline is that I get to expand on what I know as a percussionist by learning more advanced techniques. I also like the fact that you get to know so many more people and the fact that our drumline becomes more
* Free small vanilla cone at participating locations. All day, limit one per person.
All trademarks owned or licensed by Am. D.Q. Corp. ©2015. ®, TM, and ©2015 O.J. of Am.
X525557-1
23212 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite 1300 St. Francis 763-954-9340 Winter Hours 10:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
The Courier | March 2015 | www.the-courier.org