Superintendent’s Bulletin
Spring Home & Garden
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April 2017 | Volume 24, Issue 7
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Independent School District 15 Communications Department St. Francis, Minnesota Serving the communities of Andover, Athens Township, Bethel, East Bethel, Linwood Township, Nowthen, Oak Grove, St. Francis and Stanford Township
School District Bond Referendum Special Election on May 23 Lisa Rahn
Director, ISD 15 Community Education
Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) St. Francis is calling for a special election to address current programmatic and physical needs within all district facilities. On February 27, the ISD 15 School Board approved a resolution “determining the necessity of issuing general obligation bonds and calling a special election.” The special election will be held Tuesday, May 23, 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. The district is excited about this opportunity to address some of the major needs that exist. Major components of the bond referendum proposed improvements include addressing critical physical facility needs, improving districtwide safety and security, enhancing program and educational spaces to meet current educational needs and objectives and improve activities and athletic amenities to accommodate current programs and offerings. The district has been planning and positioning itself to be able to present a complete, comprehensive, long-term solution to the public that solidifies the educational and physical wellbeing of students, staff and facilities within the district. Why now? The maintenance needs that exist within our facilities are extensive and expensive. Portable (temporary) classrooms being utilized at multiple buildings are outdated and in poor condition, numerous educational programs are being delivered in inadequate or outdated spaces and a portion
of our elementary students are currently displaced to St. Francis Middle School. The proposed renovations and improvements will be developed to provide space for future flexibility and modest enrollment growth. This is not a quick fix, but rather a 20 to 25-year fix. The district is also asking for construction of a new multi-use activities center to be located at St. Francis High School. Although the addition has not been fully designed, it is anticipated it will include a four-station gymnasium, elevated walking
track, restrooms, concessions, team rooms, multipurpose area, storage and other support spaces. The district does not have enough gym space, especially during the winter, to accommodate and expand current programming needs. There will be two questions on the ballot. Question 1 will allow ISD 15 to issue general obligation school building bonds in an amount not to exceed $92.28 million for acquisition and betterment of school facilities. Question 2 will allow ISD 15 to issue general obligation school building bonds in an amount
not to exceed $15.52 million for acquisition and betterment of school facilities, including a four-station activities center addition to the high school. Question 2 is dependent upon Question 1 passing. The tax impact Question 1 on an average home value of $150,000 in the district would be $52.84 per year or $4.40 per month. Question 2 would be an additional $49.23 per year or $4.10 per month. Additional information regarding the tax impact and other items regarding the bond and special election can be found at www. isd15.org/bond. A list of
upcoming public meetings is also posted on the website. If you have questions or would like to schedule a speaker to address your group, email bond.questions@isd15.org or call 763-753-7040.
ISD 15 Bond Referendum Special Election polling places Tuesday, May 23, 2017 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Polling places and precincts for all Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) voters for the May 23 Special Election will be as follows: Precinct 1 Central Services Center (District Office) 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW St. Francis, Minnesota Precinct 1 includes all territory in ISD 15 located in the Cities of Bethel, Nowthen and St. Francis and Stanford, Athens and Spencerbrook Townships. Precinct 2 Lifelong Learning Center 18900 Cedar Drive NW Oak Grove, Minnesota Precinct 2 includes all territory in ISD 15 located in the Cities of Andover and Oak Grove (Cedar). Continued On Page 6
Inside
Sixth-grade language arts students in Jessica Rowles’ classes at St. Francis Middle School visited St. Francis Elementary School on February 23 to read to kindergarten, first and second grade students for I Love to Read Month. These preteens modeled the importance of reading to younger students. Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator
Schools in Action...................... 2 School Board Highlights......... 8 Community Education.......... 10 Community & Business......... 14 Spring Home & Garden......... 16 Sports & Outdoors................. 24 Meetings, Events & Benefits.. 26 Life............................................ 27 Easter Events........................... 29
2 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Schools in Action Superintendent’s Bulletin Troy Ferguson ISD 15 Superintendent
I hope the recent spring break afforded all of you an opportunity to rest and recharge as we enter the last trimester of the school year. Our students and staff continue to put forth an outstanding effort as we near the end of another successful year. The exciting news at hand is our bond referendum special election on May 23. We have been discussing and assessing the conditions of our facilities and the significant repairs and upgrades needed across our district over the last three years. This fall, the
decision was made to secure an outside firm to guide our district in an effort to formally identify needs and present a bond to the public. ICS, Inc. was chosen and they quickly began their work with a thorough assessment of current space use in every building along with a needs assessment generated by staff, administrators and other stakeholders that would address our critical deferred maintenance and physical facility needs, improve district safety, security and accessibility, enhance educational spaces and
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learning and expand activities and athletic opportunities. Last fall, the Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) School Board acknowledged the fact that with elections in November 2016 and four seats to fill, there was the potential of the board changing significantly. The School Board decided to wait until after the election and have new board members sworn in before proceeding with a decision to go for a bond referendum. I applaud their decision; they did not want to tie a potentially new school board with a very important decision they had not made. Fast forward to February 15. The current School Board authorized the district to submit to the Minnesota Department of Education a Review and Comment of the project. At the regular board meeting February 27, the board unanimously authorized a “Resolution Determining the Necessity of Issuing General Obligation Bonds and Calling a Special Election” set for
May 23. ISD 15 leadership, with School Board support, has been working to get accurate information to the public regarding the bond referendum and special election. Besides talking and writing about the District’s needs, we have held, scheduled or are in the process of scheduling, meetings with stakeholders all around our district. Community organizations, cities, townships and county boards, staff meetings, booster clubs, churches and youth organizations have been contacted. We have made the commitment to bring accurate information to the public, at their location and in the medium they prefer. Our district website at www. isd15.org/bond continues to be updated with information and answers to questions we receive from the public along with information on where to vote. We continue working to answer your questions accurately and ASAP, usually
the same day. In this day and age of social media, inaccurate information runs rampant. To be perfectly clear, I make no recommendation on how our stakeholders should vote on this issue. I respect and defend each person’s decision in this matter. As a school district, we are committed to bringing forth accurate information. In that spirit, I extend this pledge to you: We greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with any community members or groups concerning the bond referendum and to listen and share accurate information and concerns. The goal is to increase understanding and have informed voters. We will continue to update our website and get your questions answered. On behalf of ISD 15, I thank you in advance for your interest in learning more about the needs in our district and for your willingness to get the information you need to make your decision.
Continued From Page 1
Polling Places Precinct 3 East Bethel Senior Center 2241 – 221st Avenue NE East Bethel, Minnesota Precinct 3 includes all territory in ISD 15 located in the City of East Bethel and Linwood Township. All qualified electors residing in the School District may cast their ballots at the polling places designated above during the polling hours specified above. Admission
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April 2017
Middle school students attend regional science fair Michaella Fennell
SFMS 7th Grade Science
Eighteen 7th-grade students from St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) attended the Central Minnesota Regional Science Fair February 25. Competing at the regional level in science fair takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Seventh grade students at the middle school began research work on their projects in October. Students evaluated their sources and learned from them so they could design their own experiment. Students were encouraged to find things from their everyday life they were interested in and could understand. After designing the experiment at school, students took their procedures home, ran experiments and collected data in November and December. In December and January, they brought their results to school and science teachers helped them analyze data and draw conclusions. Students completed research papers and created visual display boards. Seventh grade students displayed and shared their projects in the school’s media center with fellow middle school students. Those who completed their projects at a high level and met requirements had the opportunity to compete at the regional competition held on a Saturday. The Central Minnesota Regional Science Fair was held at St. Cloud State University’s Atwood Memorial Student Union. Over 204 science projects from students in grades 6-12 from all over central Minnesota were on display. Faculty and students from St. Cloud State University judged students and their projects. To do well in competition, students must truly understand their topics and develop public speaking skills so they can explain and answer questions from the judges. The projects were also evaluated on experimental Core Value
We believe that lifelong learning enriches individuals and creates opportunities. Independent School District 15 St. Francis, MN
design, creativity, quality of data collection and visual display. SFMS participants and their topics were: ■ Elizabeth Flatum, Cupcake Ingredient Mania ■ Madelynn Green, Sugar Sugar ■ Emily Hoff, The Cookie Effect ■ Grace Jauernigg, Which Cookie Is Gonna Crumble? ■ Wesley Kauppi, St. Francis Middle School students recently attended the Central Minnesota Regional Science Fair. Pictured front row (L-R): Evelyn Hauge, Madelynn Green, Insulate Debate Cassie Sauer, Anna DeRoy, Mckayla Harris; middle row: Jacob Soczynski, Wesley ■ Jacob Soczynski, Kauppi, Chet Anderson, Reed Kohler, Jacob Nielsen; back row: Alex Eischens, Flying Pigskins Mikkel Paulson, Joey Dropps, Elizabeth Flatum, Grace Jauernigg, Kari Plumley, ■ Chet Anderson, Emily Hoff, Austin Carey. Photo by Michaella Fennell Power of pH ■ Austin Carey, The Camera! Plants? This year’s recognition for Magnificent Dinos ■ Mikkel Paulson, Getting Outstanding Science Teacher ■ Evan Dahl, The Proof Is In Power From Microbial went to Michaella Fennell, the Pudding Energy 7th-grade science teacher from ■ Anna DeRoy, Tweety Bird ■ Cassie Sauer, Soaking SFMS. ■ Alex Eischens, The Crabby Sponges Slide ■ Joey Dropps and Reed ■ Mckayla Harris, Thirsty Kohler, Solar Heat ■ Evelynn Hauge, Shrimp or Each year, the Central Giant Minnesota Regional Fair ■ Jacob Nielson, Lights! also recognizes one teacher.
Beach Blanket Bingo thank you Ana Steenerson
EBCS PTO
East Bethel Community School Parent Teacher Organization would like to thank all of the businesses who donated to our January Beach Blanket Bingo. The event was a great success and we thank all of the following businesses for their donations: Foss Swim School, Jam Hops, ACE Solid Waste Inc., Domino’s Ham Lake, Connexus Energy, Jet’s Pizza, Manzetti’s Pizza & Pasta, Tasty’s Pizza, St. Francis True Value Hardware, Boston’s Restaurant & Sports Bar, Buffalo Wild Wings, Zero Gravity, McDonald’s, Subway, Casey’s General Store, Minnesota Wild, St. Paul Saints, Timberwolves, Arrow Cryogenics, JulieLulaRue Consultant, American Family Insurance-Mary Dresch Agency, St. Francis Dental, Hidden Haven Golf Course and any other business or person we may have missed.
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4 April 2017 The Courier
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St. Francis Elementary School celebrated national reading month Becky Aish
SFES APT Public Relations
Vocalocity, the St. Francis Middle School Showchoir led by middle school choir teacher Sandra Manglos, performed a musical show for the student body in January. Students were mesmerized and cheered loudly for the excellent performance. This was the choir’s first live performance of their show for an audience.
Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator
Students from St. Francis Elementary School took part in February’s annual I Love To Read Month event. They participated by reading in different locations of the classroom and school. Students had the opportunity to bring a beach towel and sunglasses for Beach Day and a stuffed animal for Read to An Animal Day. They also explored different fiction and non-fiction books and created posters and special writings about their books. “This is such a great memory for us all,” said Kate Hermann when visitors came to her 3rd-grade classroom for reading. Special guest readers from the community volunteered to enhance the reading enjoyment of the students. All together 78 parents, grandparents, SFES staff and other community members were invited to school to share their fondness of reading.
Codie was excited to have her grandmother, Liz, volunteer to read to her kindergarten class.
Submitted Photo
Fifth-grade students create with clay Jamie Studnicka
EBCS Community Relations Coordinator
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Fifth-grade students at East Bethel Community School recently completed their clay projects in art class with Althea Kure. Each student used two methods to build a pot with clay. The first was to start with a pinch pot to create a vessel by hand. The second was a coiled section. Since the coils resemble a snake, many good-humored 5th-grade students use a snake theme for their work. The students were EBCS 5th-grade students working on clay projects in Althea Kure’s art excited to create a useful class. Photo by Althea Kure household item that was and a variety of other ceramic forms using these also aesthetically pleasing. Students also made mugs, syrup containers, gravy boats, flower vases two building methods.
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
5
Kindergarten 3-D community at St. Francis Elementary School Julie Sweeney and Julie Wieczorek
SFES Teachers
St. Francis High School honored its February Students of the Month during a breakfast on February 24. Pictured front row (L-R): Kelsey Fahland (Math), Precious Yang (Art), Jacob Mickelburg (Science), Jasmine Ryther (Social Studies); second row: Melvin Tarr (Physical Ed & Health), Kendra Burgett (World Languages), Trent Anderson (At Large), Matthew Engel (Language Arts), Derek Kelley (Business). Not pictured: Connor Swafford (Music).
Steven Fetzik, SFHS Community Relations Coordinator
On March 16 students in the Multicultural Program at St. Francis High School had an opportunity to tour Metropolitan State University and Minneapolis Community & Technical College.
During the month of January, kindergarten students at St. Francis Elementary School learned about three-dimensional shapes and mapping. The culminating project was building a 3-D community. Each student was given the opportunity to build a 3-D building, such as schools, banks, houses, hotels, barber shops, police stations, hospitals and others you would find in a community. Students worked at home with their families on their buildings and brought the finished product to school. Kindergarten teachers Julie Polsfut, Julie Wieczorek, Beth Anderson, Briana Anderson, Tricia Rutz and Paige Mayor worked to display the buildings in the Media Center for parents to enjoy during conferences. Students were very proud of their work and thoroughly enjoyed walking around the 3-D community to see all of the creativity and hard work their peers put into their buildings. Submitted Photo
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Carline Sargent, ISD 15 American Indian & Multicultural Education Coordinator
Taste of Kindergarten Taste of Kindergarten is a special event for soon to be kindergartners and their parents. There will be an introduction, classroom time and parent discussion time to learn more about the transition. Kindergarten teachers and other district staff will participate in this informative event. We’ll even have a school bus ride! Come
and join us for an evening of getting ready to go to kindergarten! Time: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Date: Thursday, April 27 Location: The elementary school your student will attend Register for this event at kindergarten registration or the school office where your student will go to school.
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The American Indian Education Parent Committee will meet Tuesday, April 18, 5:00 p.m. in Room C-204 at St. Francis High School. If you are a parent, guardian or foster parent of an American Indian student in ISD 15 and would like to be part of the American Indian Education Parent Committee, you are encouraged to attend the meeting.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about the American Indian Education Program, please contact Carline Sargent at 763-213-1575 or email carline.sargent@isd15.org.
6 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
February was “I Love to Read Month” at EBCS Jamie Studnicka
EBCS Community Relations Coordinator
Alyssa Miles and Olivia Scott work to finish their final projects as St. Francis High School neared the end of the second trimester. Both Miles and Scott are members of Robert Held’s Language Arts class. Final examinations for the trimester were March 1-2. Steven Fetzik, SFHS Community Relations Coordinator
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AED training at St. Francis Elementary School Lillian Levine,
ISD 15 School Nurse Julie Sweeney, SFES Community Relations Coordinator
Independent School District 15 is in the process of replacing its current Automated External Defibrillators (AED). St. Francis Elementary School (SFES) has recently received a new AED. This AED is a different model than the one that was previously at school. SFES staff received training February 22 on how to operate the new AED and the importance of knowing where it is located within the building. This training was facilitated by Troy Lachinski, Advanced First Aid, Inc. and volunteer firefighter with the City of East Bethel. It is great to be trained on this piece of equipment, as you never know when you will need to use it to save a life.
Along with some unusual weather, the month of February also brought excitement to East Bethel Community School (EBCS). EBCS was busy celebrating and promoting reading with various events during I Love to Read Month. Students and staff enjoyed various activities, events and special guests throughout the month. On February 10, visitors in the building may have thought the power was out. Instead it was Flashlight Friday where students and staff were reading in the dark with flashlights. There was a special assembly on February 15. Students and staff dressed up as their favorite book character or superhero and gathered in the gym for the Kind, Safe, Responsible and Respectful (KSRR) Celebration. There was also a surprise special guest—
ISD 15 Superintendent Troy Ferguson poses as Batman to read to EBCS staff and students.
Jamie Studnicka, EBCS Community Relations Coordinator
Submitted by Robyn M. Smith, CCCS Special Education Instructional Lead, PBIS Coach
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classes to read their favorite story to students. It was Hats Off to Reading on February 24. Students and staff wore their favorite and oftentimes goofy hats. The students and staff also gathered in the halls to read their favorite book. It was a great month promoting reading and experiencing reading in fun ways.
Cedar Creek Community School staff celebrated I Love to Read month by dressing up as a favorite character from a book. Pictured (L-R): Batman (Kirsten Rossum), Snow White (Jessica Marsolek), Lorax (Shirley Meyers), Cat in the Hat (Robyn Smith), Skippy John Jones (Heidi Wold) and Mr. Krupp (Kara Lofgren).
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Batman (aka Superintendent Troy Ferguson) who arrived on scene to read a very special and exciting children’s book. He took time out of his day fighting crime to read The Astonishing Secret of Awesome Man by Michael Chabon to all of the students and staff at East Bethel Community School. On February 17, teachers swapped
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
Nancy Kotyk retires after 30 years in special education
EBCS Choir and Recorder Ensembles gear up for another season
Jamie Studnicka
Jamie Studnicka
EBCS Community Relations Coordinator
After 30 years in special education and three years with Independent School District 15, Nancy Kotyk retired on March 17. Kotyk started her career in 1986, working primarily with students with severe physical and medical needs. For the last 10 years she has been an intervener working with deaf/blind students. An intervener’s role is to provide structure for the student, essentially completing task’s with the student, not for the student. The intervener helps students gather information on their surroundings, learn skills and develop communication. Kotyk found the best part of her job was seeing students succeed for the first time. It could be the student’s first independent step or the student’s first independent sign. One of her best memories was sharing a moment with a parent after the parent’s son signed “mom” for the first time. It was that passion and caring that was evident every day that Kotyk was helping students. Kotyk will still be very busy even in her retirement. She is a currently a real estate agent for Keller Williams Reality. She also has a number of hobbies; Photo submitted by Nancy Kotyk Kotyk loves painting and woodworking. Some of her great painted glasses have been donated for fundraisers at East Bethel Community School (EBCS) events. Kotyk is also an outdoor enthusiast. She can be seen on the golf course or fishing for walleye. Kotyk has been an important and cherished member of the EBCS family. Her passion, skills and enthusiasm will be missed.
ISD 15 Staff Highlights Glenn Morehouse Olson is a semifinalist for Education Minnesota’s Teacher of the Year award. Morehouse Olson, St. Francis High School English, journalism and theater, is one of 37 semifinalists. The teachers in the semifinalist group are from around the state, making the cut out of 132 teachers nominated. A panel of community leaders will review portfolios later this month to tighten the list down to ten finalists. The 53rd Minnesota Teacher of the Year will be presented at a ceremony May 7 at the Radisson Blu, Mall of America. John Lorenzen was named Section 7AAA Wrestling Coach of the Year by the Minnesota Wrestling Coaches Association. Lorenzen is the varsity head coach of the St. Francis High School wrestling team. Michaella Fennell, St. Francis Middle School science
7
teacher, was the recipient of the 2017 Outstanding Teacher Award at the 67th annual science fair recently held at St. Cloud State University.
EBCS Community Relations Coordinator
Mike Werner has been directing and teaching performance music skills to East Bethel Community School (EBCS) Choir and Recorder Ensembles in preparation for upcoming events. Both groups practice weekly and will perform at school assemblies, field day and during their spring concerts. These groups are developing musical skills along with life skills such as teamwork, problem solving and leadership. The EBCS choir has 25 vocalists this season and is in its seventh season over the past four years. This season they are focusing on singing in unison, canon and twopart harmony. This season, in addition to playing the Star Spangled Banner and selections from Johann Sebastian Bach, the choir will also sing songs in German and Spanish. The choir sings classic folk songs, canons and modern original choral music. The choir will perform at the spring concert Thursday, May 18, 4:30 p.m., in the EBCS gym. Recorder ensemble’s five instrumentalists are in their fourth season over the past two years. The recorder ensemble performers play a variety of recorders including soprano, alto, tenor and bass. Recorder Ensemble will also play the Star Spangled Banner as well as arrangements of Johann Sebastian Bach’s
keyboard music, chorales, original modern recorder music and baroque and renaissance selections. The recorder ensemble students will be focusing on performing in canon and four-part polyphonic texture. The EBCS Recorder Ensemble will present their spring concert
(Above) EBCS choir students are practicing for upcoming performances.
Photo by Jamie Studnicka
(Below) EBCS recorder ensemble students are practicing for upcoming performances. Photo by Mike Werner
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Wednesday, May 17, 4:30 p.m., in the EBCS gym.
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Land/Property for Sale Homes for Sale St. Francis, 78 acres, commercial ������������������$500,000 Ham Lake Pending 2 BR, 2 BA ����������� $224,900 12 Lots, 1 to 10 acres, ��������������� $32,000 to $149,900 St. Francis, 32 acres �����������������������������������������$299,000 St. Francis, townhome 2 BR, 2 BA ���������� $144, 900 St. Francis, 30 acres, wooded with creek �����$199,000 St. Francis, 20 acres, wooded with creek �����$199,000 Sell your home or land with Larry… Commercial for Sale call TODAY! St. Francis, Office Building, 3,700 sq. ft. ������$517,000
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
Consignment Center MUSIC &Educator Approved Instruments
2/17
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:30-8; Friday 9:30-6; Saturday 9-4
8 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
School Board Highlights School Board Highlights
School Board Perspective
Mike Starr ISD 15 School Board Chairman
Kathleen Miller
Why the bond referendum? Since October 2013, Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) leadership has been discussing a bond referendum to update and repair the district’s aging school buildings. On February 27, your ISD 15 School Board voted and authorized a bond referendum with two questions. With so many options for students to open enroll in other school districts or attend charter schools, private schools or home school, we have to update our aging facilities, making this a fight for public education, in my opinion. Surveys, research and articles in the newspaper have shown students have left public education for newer facilities and more options for classes and programs. On May 23, ISD 15 voters will have the opportunity to vote on two questions for a bond referendum. Question 1 reads, “Shall the School Board of Independent School District No. 15 (St. Francis), Minnesota, be authorized to issue general obligation school building bonds in the amount not to exceed $92,280,000, for acquisition and betterment of school facilities?” Why Question 1? Our aging school buildings, similar to our homes and businesses, need to be updated. Current funding is just enough to keep boilers, air conditioning units and roofs repaired. Our school buildings were built as far back as 1953, 1954, 1961 and 1965. Our newest school building was built in 1998. The high school’s newest addition was in 2007. Question 1 will allow the school district to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards, improve building security and enhance classrooms to meet educational standards for our students to meet or exceed goals for education and to have the skills needed to attend post secondary schools and to enter the workforce. Classrooms, walls, flooring, restrooms, gym spaces, ceiling tiles, windows, etc., all will be updated. In church recently, we
were discussing the bond referendum and one of our members made the statement, “A good strong school district makes a good strong city and a caring city makes a good strong school district.” A good, strong school district with updated classrooms for learning keeps our students in the district. I feel confident that students, who have left our district, will want to return and likewise, students from other school districts will want to open enroll in ISD 15. Our trade classes for welding and machining will be expanded along with our science labs, business classes, music, physical education classes and so on. I foresee pride in our school district going nowhere but up, up and up after our buildings are updated. Question 2 reads, “If ballot Question 1 is approved, shall the school board of Independent School District No. 15 (St. Francis), Minnesota, be authorized to issue general obligation school building bonds in an amount not to exceed $15,520,000, for acquisition and betterment of school facilities, including a four-station community activities center addition to the high school?” Question 1 has to pass before Question 2 can be approved. Why Question 2 for the bond referendum? Construction of the new multi-use activities center will enhance our educational spaces for both the middle and high schools. For instance, our St. Francis High School gymnastics team will now have their equipment located at the high school, which will free up gym 3 at St. Francis Middle School. The activities center, not yet fully designed, is anticipated to have a four-station gym floor, walking track, restrooms, concessions, team rooms, multipurpose area, storage and other support spaces. Please understand the activities center does NOT include a swimming pool. An important question asked by many, “How much will
Staff writer
this bond referendum cause my property taxes to go up?” After April 1, visit the district’s website (www.isd15.org/bond) to access a tax calculator that will give an estimated tax amount for your property. For questions you may have on the bond referendum or to request a speaker to come to your organization or group, call 763-753-7040. You may also contact a school board member or email your questions to: bond.questions@isd15.org.
School Board Meeting Schedule School board meetings are held in the Community Room at Central Services Center, located at 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis. Monday, April 10 & 24 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, May 8 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, May 22 Retiree Recognition Program 6:00 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Live streaming and video archives of school board meetings are available at www.isd15.org/sbvideo
School Board Members Mike Starr Chairman
763-300-9110
Marsha Van Denburgh Vice-Chairwoman 763-753-6653 Barbara Jahnke Clerk 763-753-6846 Rob Schoenrock Treasurer 763-232-7902 Jill Anderson Director
612-270-0415
Amy Kelly Director 763-744-8458 Sean Sullivan Director 763-807-0010 Email: schoolboard@isd15.org
February 27, 2017 All board members present School Board Approved Paid Holidays Ten paid holidays were approved for 2018-19. For 2018, they are July 4, September 3, November 22 and 23, December 24 and 25; for 2019, they are January 1, February 18, April 19, May 27. St. Francis High School Site Report Principal Doug Austin presented highlights of the 2016-17 school year at St. Francis High School (SFHS). Three focal points are pathway readiness for all students, efficacy and student connectedness. Plans are underway to develop a partnership with Anoka Technical College in 2018-19, with the focus on automotive and metals, worked on now. SFHS math teacher Dianna Hazelton and student Camille Zupfer addressed the Board regarding the math tutor program at SFHS. Principal Austin outlined the goal to increase the graduation rate. It is currently at 95.9 percent, which is well above state average. The goal is to increase it to 96.2 percent. The School Board unanimously approved to revise the school calendar to include the following senior exemption days: May 3, June 1 and June 2. Bond Referendum Update The School Board unanimously approved a resolution calling for a special election for a bond referendum. Two questions will be on the ballot. The passage of Question 2 is contingent upon the passage of Question 1. Question 1 will read, “Shall the School Board of Independent School District No. 15 (St. Francis), Minnesota, be authorized to issue general obligation school building bonds in an amount not to exceed $92,280,000, for acquisition and betterment of school facilities?” Question 2 will read, “If Ballot Question 1 is approved, shall the School Board of Independent School District No. 15 (St. Francis),
Minnesota, be authorized to issue general obligation school building bonds in an amount not to exceed $15,520,000, for acquisition and betterment of school facilities, including a four-station community activities center addition to [St. Francis] High School?” Find the complete resolution in the approved minutes from this meeting on the District’s website. Bond information has been submitted to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) Commissioner of Education for Review and Comment. The Board’s determination to hold the election to authorize the issuance of the bonds is contingent upon receiving a favorable response from MDE. The special election is scheduled to take place Tuesday, May 23, 7:00 a.m.8:00 p.m. Polling locations are listed on page 1 and also on the website at www.isd15.org/bond. All qualified electors residing in Independent School District 15 may cast their ballots at the polling places designated. A voter must be registered to vote to be eligible to vote in the special election. Unregistered individuals may register to vote at their polling place on Election Day. Branding Committee Recommendations Director of Community Education Lisa Rahn and Communications Manager Kathleen Miller provided additional information regarding the recommendations from the branding committee. The recommendations presented to the School Board at the February 13 meeting were: District name: St. Francis Area Schools; District colors: navy blue and white with grey accent; District nickname: Saints. Fighting Saints can be used at the middle school and high school with activities director/building principal approval. The following actions were made by the School Board: BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board to approve the district color scheme and school nickname as follows. Identify district color scheme: Navy blue and white (grey accent as needed); Identify school nickname: Saints Continued On Page 9
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
School bus drivers wanted Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) is in need of school bus riders/drivers for the 2016-17 school year. Part-time and full-time shifts are available for mornings, afternoons or both. Complete the online application at www.isd15.org/employment. A valid Class B drivers license required; if applicant does not have Class B license, the Transportation Department will provide PAID training. A 6-hour day qualifies driver for full-time benefits. Call the ISD 15 Transportation Department at 763-753-7101 and ask for Dean. ISD 15 is an equal opportunity employer. St. Francis Middle School has a new after school Targeted Services Program for any sixth, seventh or eighth grade student—Minecraft! Students meet after school on Tuesdays with advisor Dawn Nordin. Students create and survive Minecraft worlds. Pictured (L-R): 6th grade students Logan Musker, Trent Chambers, Anthony Dufeck and Luciann Koch. Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator
Anoka-Ramsey Community College/ Anoka Technical host open houses Fia Prpic
Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Anoka-Ramsey Community College Open Houses The Coon Rapids Campus Open House is Wednesday, April 5, 5:00-7:00 p.m. and the Cambridge Campus Open House is Thursday, April 6, 5:00-7:00 p.m. At either open house, prospective students, parents, returning students and the community can explore everything that Anoka-Ramsey has to offer, such as affordable tuition, flexible options and nearly 100 programs that transfer. Programs include the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) that transfers seamlessly into many four-year institutions. Attendees can also tour the campus, meet with admissions and financial aid representatives, preview the degree and program options with faculty members and visit with different student and campus activity groups. Anoka Technical College hosts Medical Assistant Showcase Anoka Technical College will host their first Medical Assistant Showcase, Wednesday, April 5, 4:00-7:00 p.m. in Auditorium A and B. Prospective students are encouraged to attend this free
event to learn more about the Medical Assistant program. Food and beverages will be served and door prizes will be awarded. Industry leaders will be in attendance to answer questions, provide resources and present information. Anoka Technical College hosts Spring Open House More than 35 in-demand career and training programs will be highlighted at the annual Anoka Technical College Open House, Thursday, April 13, 5:00-7:00 p.m. This free and open to the public open house is for high school students, returning college students and adults searching for a career path that is right for them. For more information about the Open Houses or AnokaRamsey Community College, visit AnokaRamsey.edu or Anoka Technical College, visit AnokaTech.edu.
Continued From Page 8
Board Highlights and Fighting Saints with the following recommendations: Saints used universally across the district. Fighting Saints may be used for St. Francis Middle School and St. Francis High School as determined and approved by activities directors, principals at those schools. Athletic uniforms/ warm-ups will display Saints (not Fighting Saints). All other school mascot names and images to be retired (Eagles, Cougars, Wolves). Motion carried 5-2, nays being Amy Kelly and Rob Schoenrock. BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board to approve the district name as follows. Identify district name: St. Francis Area Schools. Discussion followed and School Board members suggested waiting to vote on the District name due to the timing of the upcoming bond referendum. Motion failed 6-1, yay being Barb Jahnke. Oak Land Bridge Street Building Purchase The School Board unanimously approved authorization for the superintendent to enter into negotiations to purchase the former Oak Land ALC building, 22970 Butterfield Drive NW in St. Francis at the appraised value of $645,000. Budget Adjustments Director of Special Services Tim Finn and Superintendent Troy Ferguson presented on the proposed District reductions in programs, positions and adjustments for the fiscal school year 2017-18. The projected budget reduction is $1,816,100. First round of staffing reduction was held February 28 with district administration and principals. The School Board unanimously approved the discontinuance and reduction of some educational programs, positions and other budget adjustments. For more information, refer to the approved minutes from this meeting on the District’s website.
Midwest Family Counseling, P.A.
School Board Highlights Kathleen Miller
Staff writer
March 13, 2017 All board members present Superintendent Report ■ Interviews for director of Business Services will be held end in March. If a School Board member is interested on being on the interview team, please contact Superintendent Ferguson. Scott Nelson, director of Business Services, resigned from his position effective March 31. ■ Superintendent Ferguson along with Community Education Director Lisa Rahn and Maintenance Program Supervisor Chris Wirz met with city of St. Francis Mayor Steve Feldman and council members Joe Kohlman and Joe Muehlbauer to discuss the bond referendum. ■ Information regarding the purchase of Oakland building will be brought forward to the next board meeting. ■ Director of Community Education Lisa Rahn gave an overview on where to find information, frequently asked questions, tax impact per household and general details of each building site regarding bond referendum. The special election will be May 23. After the first of April, a tax calculator will be available at www.isd15. org/bond. Email questions to bond.questions@isd15.org. Meetings with townships, cities and stakeholders are being scheduled to provide information regarding the bond referendum. ■ At the last School Board meeting, a first reading of Policy 201 Shared Decision Making, Site-Based
9
Management was given. Board members requested framework regarding parent involvement is presented at the March 13 School Board meeting. Director of Human Resources Brandon Nelson gave an overview of parent and community member guidelines: be advisory in nature only, include roles outlined in policies 306, 312, 316, 411, 414, 433, include roles outlined in statute, play a large role in promoting school spirit and support and enhance fundraising. Specific plans and structured opportunities for parent and community input by each site was also presented. Board members recommended administration monitor and use a template to identify who is on the team, meeting dates and time, take minutes and role of the PTO/APT to ensure consistency across the District. School District Policy Updates The following policies were unanimously approved by the School Board: Policy 112—Code of Ethics (revised), Policy 113—Conflict of Interest School Board Members (revised), Policy 114—Criminal or Civil Action Against School District, School Board Member, Employee or Student (revised), Policy 201—Shared Decision Making, Site-Based Management (eliminated). Special Election Update The resolution to approve the contract with Anoka County for the Special Election May 23, 2017 was unanimously approved by the School Board. The charge is $2000 per election precinct (x 3 precincts = $6,000) plus expenses for postage, printing, legal publications and precinct election judges; approximate cost will be close to $10,000.
Now enrolling toddlers and school age. Accepting employment applications.
Individual – Relationship – Adolescent – Adult – Child
763-753-9459
St. Francis Forest Lake Lighthouse Building Franklin Building 23038 Rum River Blvd. NW 69 North Lake Street BHP – Preferred One – UCare – MHCP
Bruce W. Barton, M.Div., M.A., LMFT, LP
Childcare Center 763-753-5010 www.kidscountrychildcare.com 23256 St. Francis Blvd. NW, St. Francis Proudly accepting Child Care Assistance
10 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Community Education Calling all 3 & 4 year olds! Early Childhood Screening is waiting to see you! Do you have a child who is three or four years old? Have they been through Early Childhood Screening? Early Childhood Screening should be done soon after the child’s third birthday. Screening is a free, simple check of a young child’s health and development; it does not determine kindergarten readiness. Screening includes a development assessment, vision and hearing checks, immunization and health review. Call 763-753-7187 if you currently have a 3 Safety or 4-year-old child who has not been screened.
Community Education Directory Community Education Director............................................................... 763-753-7048 Adult Basic Education (GED)...................................................................... 763-753-7190 Adult Enrichment & Rec................................................................................ 763-213-1640 Communications/The Courier.................................................................. 763-753-7031 Youth Enrichment • Grades K-5................................................................ 763-213-1616 Districtwide Youth • Grades 7-12............................................................. 763-213-1640 Driver Education/Behind the Wheel..................................................... 763-213-1640 Early Childhood Family Education.......................................................... 763-753-7170 Early Childhood Screening.......................................................................... 763-753-7187 Facility Scheduling............................................................................................ 763-213-1589 Kids Connection/Just 4 Kids Program Supervisor..................................................................................... 763-213-1616 Cedar Creek Community School Site............................................... 763-753-7160 East Bethel Community School Site.................................................. 763-213-8921 Lifelong Learning Center Site................................................................ 763-753-7199 St. Francis Elementary School Site..................................................... 763-213-8674 Preschool Place 15/School Readiness.................................................. 763-753-7170 Rec Department................................................................................................. 763-213-1823 www.isd15.org • www.the-courier.org • www.communityed15.com
Fitness for all!
Only $2 per visit & no membership fees
Relaxed nior atmosphere – seur aged to citizens are enco attend!
l Trainers +Treadmills + Elliptica + Stationary Bikes hine + Nautilus Weight Mac
Contact ISD 15 Adult on at Community Educati
763-213-1640
n.
for more informatio
Fitness 15 Sandhill Center • 23820 Dewey Street • Bethel
Monday-Thursday, 8:30-11:30 a.m. & 1:00-4:00 p.m. Friday Closed
Have a concern Adult Community Ed opportunities Your Own Will about your child? Write If you were to pass away unexpectedly, would your wishes be
carried out? Who would coordinate the probate for your estate? Who would be the guardian of your children? To whom would your assets be distributed? This class will help you answer these questions while drafting a basic will with guidance from a licensed attorney. This class is appropriate for you if the total of all of your individual assets is less than one million dollars (including real estate, life insurance and retirement assets). A married couple must complete individual wills. You will leave class with a legal and effective will. Prior to attending class, all participants will receive and must complete a questionnaire, which will be forwarded by the Community Education office. Please provide your email address. Basic computer skills are helpful, as you will type your will on a computer. Must be at least 18 years old to attend. This class meets on Monday, May 8, 6:00-10:00 p.m. at St. Francis High School and is instructed by Kristi Weikel, Weikel Law. Fee is $70 per person. Write Your Own Healthcare Directive & Power of Attorney If you become incapacitated, who will carry out your wishes regarding your healthcare and personal financial affairs? By having a plan, you get to make the choices. Learn about and draft a Healthcare Directive and a Power of Attorney. Participants will leave class with a valid healthcare directive and power of attorney. You should be comfortable using a computer, as work will be completed in a computer lab. Some prep work required; packet sent one week prior to class. Instructor is a licensed attorney. Please provide an email address when registering. This class meets Monday, It was a beautiful day to be outside making new friends during an May 22, 6:30-9:00 p.m. at Early Childhood Family Education class at the Lifelong Learning St. Francis High School and Center. Jenny Dupre, Preschool Instructor/ECFE Teacher instructed by Kristi Weikel, Weikel Law. Fee is $55 per person. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Join ISD 15 Adult Community Education on a deluxe motor coach tour to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum on May 28. instruction at St. Francis High School The tour starts with lunch at Buca di Beppo Italian Classroom Education Restaurant. Then it is on to Registration for classroom driver education is being accepted the Minnesota Landscape for the 2016-17 school year. Classroom driver education Arboretum. The fee of $70 information available on the website. includes lunch, admission and transportation via deluxe motor Behind-the-Wheel Driving Instruction coach. Participants will depart Six hours of required behind-the-wheel instruction from St. Francis High School Flexible scheduling at 10:00 a.m. and return at State of Minnesota certified instructors approximately 5:00 p.m. Fee $260 For more information on any of these classes or to Applications available at www.communityed15.com register online, visit www. or call 763-213-1640 for more information. communityed15.com or call Sponsored by ISD 15 Community Education 763-213-1640.
Are you concerned about your child’s development, speech or behavior? If your child is under three years of age, contact Kandi Danielson at kandi.danielson@isd15.org or 763-753-7172 to reach ISD 15 Help Me Grow services. If your child is at least three years of age and not yet in kindergarten, ISD 15 Early Childhood Screening is the first step in confirming any concerns you have. Call for an appointment at 763-753-7187.
Convenient
Driver
Education
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
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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.
Vehicle Day Young children and parents can explore vehicles of many types, shapes and sizes. Bring a toy vehicle to compare to the real thing. Remember to dress for the weather as this event will be outdoors. Date: Saturday, May 6 Time: 10:00-11:30 a.m. Location: Lifelong Learning Center This event is FREE but please pre-register and bring a non perishable food item for the local foodshelf.
Your baby must be nine months of age or younger when you attend the event. Enjoy songs and games together and meet others who are experiencing the joys and challenges of raising a baby. Don’t forget to pick up your free gift! Date: Thursday, April 6 Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Fee: Free Free Sibling Care is available for Celebrating Baby but you must pre-register.
The purpose 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. Classes are also available for two-yearolds and very young three-year-olds
Do you have a new baby in your house? Celebrating Baby
Registration for 2017-18 Preschool Place 15 is going on now!
Come join us for an ECFE Babies and Parents Class Enjoy songs and games together and meet others who are experiencing the joys and challenges of raising a baby. Age: Birth-14 months Dates: Thursdays, April 20-May 25 Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Fee: FREE but you must pre-register. Sibling Care also available at a low cost.
Independent School District 15 Early Childhood Family Education is offering Preschool Place 15 at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove.
a division of ISD 15 Community Education
Upcoming ECFE Classes and Events
Love and Limits Parents, you can love your kids and still set limits. This class will explore Elizabeth Crary’s book, Love and Limits. In her book she describes a problem-solving process that can be used in every kind of parenting situation. She also clarifies the difference between normal behavior and defiance and irresponsibility as it relates to reasonable expectations for children. Course: EC 5508 Dates: Wednesdays, April 5-May 24 Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Fee: See fee scale online at www.isd15.org/ ecfe
Tuesday Evenings: Birth to K Express Babies and Parents Class doesn’t work for your schedule? Schedule a Welcome Baby Home Visit. An early childhood teacher will schedule a visit with you and your baby in your home or at the Lifelong Learning Center. Information about the joys and struggles of being a parent, infant milestones and development, Early Childhood Family Education and community resources will be shared with you. Call Jenny at 763-753-7196 or email infant.visits@isd15.org for more information. Early Childhood Family Education A division of ISD 15 Community Education www.isd15.org 763-753-7170
Play together and learn together. Discussion will focus on topics of interest to families with children of all ages. Course: EC 5506 Dates: Tuesdays, April 4- May 16 Time: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Fee: See fee scale online at www.isd15.org/ ecfe
Preschool Place 15
For more information on classes and to register, visit www.isd15.org or call 763-753-7170
Looking for more special events and field trips? Check out the Place to Go, Things to Do brochure for additional special events and field trips offered through ISD 15 Early Childhood Programs.
Crayola Experience at Mall of America Crayola Experience is Minnesota’s most colorful family destination for creative play! Twenty-five hands-on attractions include: naming and wrapping your own crayon, embarking on a coloring adventure, learning how crayons are made and much more. Bring a bag lunch to eat in a reserved room before we leave the Mall of America. Date: Thursday, April 13 Time: Bus leaves LLC at 9:00 a.m.; returns by 2:15 p.m. Fee: $14 per person Deadline: April 4
Como Zoo This family favorite trip will take us to St. Paul Como Zoo where we will find wild animals. Bring a picnic lunch or purchase food at the zoo. Shelters are available in case of rain. Course: EC 9404 Date: Wednesday, May 10 Time: Bus leaves LLC at 9:00 a.m.; returns by 2:00 p.m. Fee: $6 per person Deadline: May 3
Looking for somewhere to play today? Come to Pop In and Play! Pop in for fun activities. Come once or come every week, whatever works for your schedule. Meet other families and build relationships that last a lifetime. No pre-registration required. Days & Times: Mondays, 1:00-3:00 p.m.; Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Fee: $4 per child, max $12 per family (limit of 4 children per adult)
Upcoming Schedule: April 3 5 10 12
Shapes and More 1, 2, 3 Count With Me Sensory Explosion Planes, Trains and Automobiles 17 Growing Things
12 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Classes & Events 23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005 Enjoy top entertainment by popular artists at the monthly Lunch Bunch. Make your reservations early as most shows sell out. Seating is done on a first come first served basis. Lunch Bunch is available through the efforts of the ISD 15 Senior Advisory Council. Doors open: 10:30 a.m. Lunch served: 11:00 a.m. Showtime: 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Cost: $20.00 (price includes sales tax) For reservations, call 763-213-1640.
Steven Marking
presents Our Mighty Mississippi Tuesday, April 11 #LB108
Lunch Show
A journey of song, storytelling and visual imagery celebrating America’s greatest river. Steven is a current day Mark Twain with a gorgeous voice and a touch of Ken Burns and Garrison Keillor. This acclaimed baritone singer presents a sensory feast of song, stories, film and photos capturing life on the Mississippi River and surrounding waters. Listen to Ol’ Man River, Moon River, Up a Lazy River and others.
Strength In class you will use dumbbells/ hand weights and resistance bands to strengthen muscles, improve bone density and increase your metabolism. Class is for seniors or active older adults. Days: Mondays Time: 8:00-8:45 a.m. Fee: $2 per class No registration required
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 line dance as well as those more experienced line dancers. No registration necessary, come when you want. Day: Thursdays Time: 10:00–11:00 a.m. Fee: $2 per class
Interval Training This class will incorporate short periods of easy, low impact exercises done at YOUR maximum level of effort followed by a period of less intense “cool down” movements. Get stronger, increase endurance and improve overall health in less time. Day: Thursdays Time: 9:00-9:45 a.m. Fee: $2 per class or purchase a punch card for $20 This class is NOT benefit eligible for Silver & Fit or SilverSneakers.
SilverSneakers Yoga
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 and Silver and Fit members; $2 per class for non-members No registration required
SilverSneakers Classic 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: Wednesdays, Fridays Time: 8:00-8:45 a.m. Fee: Free to SilverSneakers and Silver and Fit members; $2 per class for non-members No registration required
Sandhill is a Silver & Fit qualified center. For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program or the Sandhill Center, please call 763-213-1640. To see if you qualify as a Silver & Fit member or a SilverSneakers member, please contact your insurance company.
Sandhill Community Fair (formerly Taste of the Community)
Saturday, May 20 • 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
23820 Dewey Street NW Bethel, MN
Experience a sampling of community organizations, resources and services. Activities and entertainment. All ages welcome to this FREE event. rmation coming in the info re Mo next issue of The Courier!
Before and after school childcare Program Sites Cedar Creek Community School East Bethel Community School St. Francis Elementary School Lifelong Learning Center Kids Connection is a comprehensive childcare program for children in kindergarten through grade 5 that provides 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 programs on non-school days. Questions? Call Chris at 763-213-1616 or Lori at 763-213-1641 communityed15.com/kc
Just 4 Kids is a childcare option for children who are 3 years of age by September 1, 2016 to kindergarten entrance. Children participate in various activities in a safe, well-supervised environment. Extended childcare options are available at: • Cedar Creek Community School, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Preschoolers who attend Just 4 Kids will be bused to the Lifelong Learning Center (LLC) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at no fee. • St. Francis Elementary School, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Preschoolers who attend Just 4 Kids will remain at St. Francis Elementary School. If preschoolers are attending Preschool Place 15, they will be bused to LLC at no cost. Customize your childcare arrangements! Before and after preschool, daily and weekly rates are available for Just 4 Kids. Call 763-213-1641 for more information.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
Congratulations to St. Francis High School graduate Maggie Ewen for being named the NCAA Division I and PAC 12 track & field athlete of the week. Just one week after earning All-American awards in the shot put and 20-pound weight throw at the NCAA indoor track & field championships, Ewen set a new all-time American collegiate record in the hammer throw at the Baldy Castillo Invitational with a throw of 72.71 Submitted photo (238' 6"). The previous record holder was Olympian Deanna Price from Southern Illinois University. Ewen is currently studying health and wellness at Arizona State University. Cayman Salitros, son of Chris and Julie Salitros and a 2013 graduate of St. Francis High School, has been named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester 2016 at St. John’s University in Collegeville. Salitros will graduate in May 2017 with a global business leadership major and a communication minor.
called pot-stickers in the United States. Made from flour and stuffed with The traditional Chinese different fillings, dumplings New Year celebration, are usually eaten on Spring also known as the Spring Festival Eve. Because Festival, is a holiday that is their shape resembles the over 3,000 years old! This Yuanbao (a kind of money year the festival began on used in ancient times), January 27 and according dumplings are eaten to to the Chinese zodiac, it bring wealth in the coming is the year of the Rooster. year. In ancient times, after This holiday is a wonderful the Spring Festival dinner, way for Chinese people family members talked to experience ancient folk or set off fireworks while customs and is the most waiting for the arrival of the important yearly event for lunar New Year. Today, lots many Chinese citizens. of people enjoy watching It is the time of year CCTV to the see New Year Examples of Chinese red envelopes. for families to reunite, Gala from the comfort of Photo Wikimedia Commons similar to how Christmas their living rooms! is celebrated in the United good luck over the next year. The final tradition people States. It is also the longest Another tradition the carry out during this holiday holiday in China—lasting up Chinese perform during this is the “red envelope” tradition. to 15 days! Many Chinese holiday is pasting a very short After the dinner, red envelopes people get at least seven days two-line poem to the doorway filled with money are prepared off of work to celebrate with of their homes. Originally the and given to children from their families and some people poems were painted on a piece parents and grandparents. The even choose to take the whole of wood and hung beside the color red is lucky in China; time away to spend with their therefore, folk culture says loved ones. Even hard-working door and were called Taofu. Today they are painted on red that the children will live safe school children enjoy a month scrolls and often are written to and sound for the whole year of vacation! express people’s good wishes to if they receive lucky money. The holiday originated others. Children can use the money during the Shang Dynasty The most important foods to buy books or other school sometime during the 17th to people eat during the festival supplies, but some families save the 11th centuries BC. It is are dumplings (jiaozi), often the money for future use. said that there was a monster Xia Li
ISD 15 ABE Student
Photo by Cassie Schmoll, EBCS 5th-grade teacher
Jamie Studnicka
EBCS Community Relations Coordinator
www.davidbankstudio.com
FREE FAMILY FUN!
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Over the past few weeks, students in Cassie Schmoll’s fifthgrade class have been problem-solving, collaborating, researching and designing solutions to California’s water shortage problem. Through much discussion and critiques, ideas such as tanker trucks, trains, bottling centers, green houses and canals were considered. Resources including the Snake River, the Columbia River, Lake Superior and the Colorado River were examined. The plans and solutions the students created were exemplary and the discussions at the culmination of the project were of a high academic level. It is truly amazing what The Twin Cities #1 Senior Photographer our students are capable Central Studio Anoka Studio of when they are given the 763-571-2265 763-421-4553 opportunity to truly problem 1290 Osborne Road 1916 2nd Avenue S solve, collaborate, research and Fridley, MN 55432 Anoka, MN 55303 critically think.
U L T C U I T R L
Independent School District 15 Multicultural Program
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that lived during that time named “Nian.” Nian loved to eat little children and livestock. Even though the monster was very fierce, he had two weaknesses—he did not like the color red and he was afraid of loud noises. To frighten Nian away, people began to decorate their houses with plenty of red and set off fireworks to create a lot of noise. Today these customs are still part of the celebration. In addition to these customs, it is also conventional to thoroughly clean the house before the celebration starts. Everything is cleaned including floors, walls and all corners of the house. Getting rid of the old dust represents sweeping away bad luck and ushering in
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Water shortage in California sparks research at EBCS
Traditional Chinese Spring Festival
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Saturday, April 8
11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. St. Francis High School Food Resources Presentations Entertainment
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Student Updates
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People from ALL ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to participate. Share culture, traditions, customs, language, food, music, art and historical knowledge. Also, looking for participants who make or sell cultural/ traditional art/crafts. If you are interested in participating or have questions, please contact Carline Sargent at 763-213-1575 or email carline.sargent@isd15.org.
14 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Community & Business Daudt presents bill assisting Independent School District 15 in committee Without Speaker Daudt’s fix, ISD 15 could be forced to pay $800,000 per year Susan Closmore
Passage of legislation that empowers schools to keep best teachers in the classroom Ethan Hellier
Director of Public Affairs House Republican Caucus
Communication Specialist, Republican Caucus, Minnesota Legislature
House Speaker Kurt Daudt, R-Crown, presented legislation recently in the House Education Finance Committee aimed at helping Independent School District 15 (ISD 15), St. Francis modify and update district finances. The bill was laid over for possible inclusion in the Education Finance Omnibus bill. The Bar None residential treatment facility is located within the boundaries of ISD 15 and serves male students ages 12 to 18. In 1992, the legislature granted special authority for ISD 15 to provide educational services to those children. Due to the fact most of the children were residents of other school districts, the 1992 law authorized ISD 15 to include in the amounts of tuition that were then billed back to the resident school districts. A 2012 legislative change inadvertently removed the commissioner’s authority to approve adding certain general education costs to the tuition bill for nonresident students. However, the school district was allowed to continue the billing practice to prevent a major budget shortfall. Speaker Daudt’s bill, House File 1428, would officially restore authority for the commissioner of education to approve adding certain general
On March 16, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed legislation that repeals the last in, first out (LIFO) requirement when school districts are forced to make staff changes. By removing this default in state statute, school districts and local bargaining units are able to explore alternative options in addition to seniority, helping keep the best teachers in the classroom. The legislation passed on a bipartisan vote of 71-59. “School districts need to have all the tools on the table in order to negotiate teacher contracts that are in the best interest of our students; relying simply on seniority is short sided,” said Representative Cal Bahr (R-East Bethel). “Our students deserve to have the most qualified teachers in the classroom.” Currently, Minnesota is one of only six states where seniority is the sole factor in teacher retention decisions. The bill does not discourage seniority to be included as a factor, but opens up negotiations to include teacher effectiveness, evaluations and other criteria. Editor’s note: Bahr represents District 31B in the Minnesota House of Representatives. District 31B includes voters in the cities of Andover, East Bethel, Ham Lake, Oak Grove and Columbus Township and Linwood Township.
House Speaker Kurt Daudt, R-Crown Photo by House Info
education costs to the nonresident tuition bill amounts billed back to the resident districts. Without Speaker Daudt’s fix, ISD 15 schools could be forced to pay $800,000 per year. “This bill ensures certainty for ISD 15 finances moving forward. Without this fix, ISD 15 schools may have been forced to cut back on programming for our local students," said Speaker Daudt. “I will continue working with Chair Jenifer Loon and other members of the Education St. Francis Lioness & Lions invite you! Finance Committee to make sure this priority for our local school district is signed into law.”
Salad Luncheon & Fashion Show Saturday, April 1
at the St. Francis American Legion 3073 Bridge Street, St. Francis Donation $7.00. Tickets at the door. All proceeds will be used for St. Francis High School scholarships. 11:00 a.m. Social 12:00 p.m. Luncheon 12:30 p.m. Fashion Show Fashions courtesy of Walmart and Dress Barn. For more information, please contact Lioness Marolyn Baumann at 763-753-2041.
Saints Sighting Have you noticed a community member going out of their way to help someone in need? Have you witnessed a random act of kindness? The Courier staff invites community members to submit a Saints Sighting. Send news, photos or questions to news@isd15.org or call us at 763-753-7031. We know there are plenty of good deeds happening in our community. Share your Saints Sighting today.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
Ludwigs represent American Legion in Washington D.C.
Randy and Peggy Tesdahl, right, with American Legion Past National Commander Dan Ludwig, Red Wing. A group of Minnesotans traveled to the nation’s Capitol to lobby for veterans’ issues. Submitted Photo Al Zdon
The American Legion Department of Minnesota
2nd annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® Kellie Schmidt
Nystrom Counseling
in Her Shoes® - Anoka visit www.nystromcounseling.com/walkamile.
The purpose of the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® event is to raise awareness in our community about domestic, sexual and gender violence. The walk will take place at Anoka City Hall Plaza. Registration, face painting, resource fair and team photos will begin at 8:30 a.m. The walk begins at 10:30 a.m. There is an award ceremony for best decorated shoes, largest walk teams and most money raised by an individual and by a walk team. Check-in between 8:30-9:30 a.m. to enter for a chance to win Legends Club Twins tickets. Proceeds from the walk will go to Alexandra House in Blaine. The Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Committee of Anoka County, a collaboration of Anoka County community agencies, asks you to stand up to domestic and sexual violence by participating. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® is the international Intrepid participants in the 2016 Walk a Mile in men’s march to stop rape, sexual assault and Her Shoes fundraiser chose to wear high heels for gender violence. In this walk we ask men to the cause. Anoka Chapter Photo literally put themselves in high heel shoes and walk one mile to raise awareness and show their support against gender violence. We welcome all Julie Blomquist community members to University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County participate in this walk. The University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County will Although wearing high present a free Dollars into Sense class on Thursday, April 13 at heels is encouraged, it is not 10:00-11:30 a.m. and May 11, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the Anoka County a requirement to participate. Human Services Center, 1201 89th Avenue, Blaine. Class will Participants can wear their cover tracking expenses, putting together a spending plan, goal own high heel shoes, borrow setting, credit and where to get additional help/resources. high heel shoes at the event or To register, call University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County just normal walking shoes. at 763-755-1280 at least three days prior to the class. Opportunities to be a sponsor/exhibitor at this walk are still available. Contact 7th Annual Kellie Schmidt at 651-3791706 if interested. For more information about Walk a Mile
Dan and Mary Ludwig, members of the American Legion from Red Wing, were in Washington D.C. recently lobbying for issues that affect American war veterans and the military. Mary Ludwig, a member of the Minnesota American Legion Auxiliary and Dan Ludwig, past national commander of the American Legion, were part of a delegation of 30 Minnesotans in Washington. The delegation met with nearly every Minnesota representative and senator and urged an agenda of veterans programs that Congress will be dealing with in the future. Included in the lobbying efforts were: ■ Protect the American flag. A constitutional amendment is needed to protect the American flag from physical desecration. ■ Fully fund national defense. The global war on terrorism will continue with new challenges. Our military and national security must be fully funded. ■ Gender-specific care for women veterans. Women veterans have different military experiences than their male counterparts and have specific care needs with regard to the Veterans Administration. The delegation spent four days in Washington and attended informational sessions on critical issues. 5800 236th Avenue NW • St. Francis There are 78,000 members Specializing in Perms and Color among 560 posts in the Minnesota American Legion. Call for appointment
763-753-4601
Supporting Extracurricular Activities at St. Francis High School
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Free Dollars Into Sense class
g n i r p S s ’ n e Wom tique Bou
Hosted by The Isanti Women’s Team “Treasured Chests” walking the Avon 39 to END breast cancer
Saturday, May 13 • 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Sign-up to be a vendor. Crafters and consultants needed.
Long Lake Lutheran Church 3921 277 Avenue NW, Isanti For more information email ronda60@msn.com
16 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Spring Home & Garden Master Gardener
Joan R. Watson Isanti county master gardener Coordinator
Lets get seeds started because spring is here Riding bikes and golfing on a 60 degree day in Minnesota… in February? With all of the beautiful weather we’ve had, it’s hard to not have spring fever! Now is a great time to start seeds indoors and it’s also a great project to do with kids. Before you run to buy items from the garden store, look around and see what you may already have. Have you ordered food to go, bought a precooked chicken or bakery items recently? Plastic containers with clear lids make great little greenhouses. Poke some small
holes in the bottom for water drainage and you’re good to go. Choose your seeds by reading the information on the package as some plants do not like to be disturbed after planting. Common seeds to start indoors are tomatoes, peppers and flowers. Root vegetables should be sown directly into the garden, not transplanted. Corn has a long tap root, beans and cucumbers grow fast, so I wait on those, too. Plant cool crops such as peas, radishes, lettuce and spinach outside as they actually prefer the lower spring
Oak Grove Spring Recycling Day
Saturday, April 29 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Public Works Garage 815 Viking Blvd. NW Watch for signs Call 763-404-7006 for accepted materials and prices
Jason M. Semler, Realtor®
Submitted Photo
recommended depth of soil. Water thoroughly and carefully as to not disturb your seeds. Cover to retain moisture, set in a warm place and wait for the green sprouts to appear. Check your plantings daily and keep moist. If mold starts to develop, remove the cover to allow for air circulation. Once your plants have developed a few leaves and look sturdy enough, it’s time to move them to individual pots. You can use large paper cups with a hole punched in the bottom. Transplant at the same depth the plant is at currently. This means whatever part of the seedling was under the dirt is still covered with dirt after transplanting and what was above, stays above. Tomatoes are the exception; they should be planted deep. Pinch off the bottom leaves and plant them so just the top of the plant is showing. The buried stem will
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temperatures. There are also different types of seeds: Heirloom, Organic, Hybrid and GMO. Heirloom seeds have been collected every year and passed on for generations. Organic just means that the seeds were collected after using nonchemical or natural methods of gardening. Hybrid seeds have been cross-pollinated from different plants to produce the maximum amount of fruit or to be disease resistant. If you save hybrid seeds, they may not produce the same plant the following year. GMO seeds have been genetically modified in a laboratory and are not natural. Many suggest to use a special seed starter mix. I use organic potting soil mixed with added perlite or vermiculite. Add medium (soil) to your containers, toss in your seeds and cover with the
LIC#BC0003649
St. Francis has recycled 120 tons in 2017 so far. Recycling is now easier with simple sort recycling. You no longer need to sort items. Just place them all in the large roll-off container provided by your hauler. If you have any questions about what is acceptable or would like to start a new service, call your hauler: Ace Solid Waste 763-427-3110 Allied Waste 763-784-2104 East Central Sanitation 763-689-2171 LePage & Sons 763-757-7100
produce more roots making a healthier rooted plant. When temperatures are suitable outside, harden off your seedlings before planting. Expose them to the outdoor elements, gradually increasing the time outside. This takes about two weeks but be careful on windy, rainy or sunny days. Young plants need to be protected from extreme elements. In addition, I plant my tomatoes as explained above on the final transplant into the garden. Happy growing! For more information, visit the Isanti County Master Gardeners website at www. isanticountymastergardeners. com, University of Minnesota Extension website at www. extension.umn.edu or call the Isanti County Master Gardeners at 763-689-8254. Visit us on Facebook, Isanti County Master Gardeners.
Landscape for Life workshop Lynne Hagen
Master Gardener Program Coordinator, University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County
The University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County Master Gardener Volunteer Program is sponsoring a “Landscape for Life” sustainable gardening workshop. Sustainable gardens can help alleviate the pressure on the Earth’s ecosystems by working with nature to provide clean air and water, fertile soils, wildlife habitat and other essential ecosystem services. There are five classes in this workshop and they are scheduled on Wednesdays: May 17, 24, 31, June 7, 21, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Bunker Hills Activities Center, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW andover. Pre-registration is required due to space limitations. The workshop is only $20; sessions are not broken down individually. Please call 763755-1280 for more information or to reserve your space. A copy of the registration flyer is available at www. anokamastergardeners.org.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
Reclaimed wood adds instant appeal to home projects Repurposing salvaged wood is a popular trend in the home improvement industry. Not only can using salvaged wood give a home a one-of-a-kind look, but it’s a handy way to incorporate the three Rs of green living into your lifestyle: reduce, reuse and recycle. Reclaimed wood is often used in flooring, beams, wall treatments and doors, but it also can be turned into furniture or home accent items. Reclaimed wood adds warmth and historical interest to a home’s decor that newer materials may lack. Although finding wood that can be salvaged takes time and some legwork, such efforts can quickly pay off. Many businesses are now devoted to reclaimed timber, which can help make the process of finding and using salvaged wood File Photo even easier. Homeowners considering reclaimed wood may be interested to learn that such wood can serve various functions aside from benefitting the planet. ■ Match old-growth wood. New regulations may prevent certain species of trees from being cut down. That means it can be challenging to match old wood in a home, particularly if you’re looking to maintain historical value and authenticity. Relying on salvaged wood items can alleviate this concern, ensuring that you can find rare woods that are no longer available brand new. ■ Salvaged wood has character. It’s difficult to mimic the natural age marks and character that older wood may have. Instead of being raised on farms, wood harvested decades ago probably grew in natural environments, making the wood both durable and strong. The color and grain of salvaged wood may also be unique. ■ Look at objects in a new way. Doors are versatile pieces of reclaimed lumber because they’re already flat and rather large. Doors can be turned into headboards, tables or benches. Staircase or porch posts can be turned into candlestick holders and wood shutters can dress up walls and provide a place to hang artwork and other wall items. ■ Reclaimed wood can be found everywhere. Most people do not have to look too far to find wood they can salvage. Check salvage yards, landfills, dumpsters in front of older homes being renovated or older, unused barns in rural settings. You also can collect driftwood or discarded shipping crates. While some reclaimed wood can be used as-is, some pieces may require millwork, including sanding, cutting, shaping and finishing. If you do not have these skills, you probably will have to hire someone who does. The Internet is awash with ideas for putting salvaged wood to use. Get inspired and then find the pieces that will fit your project. Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial
Roofing Siding Windows Painting Storm Damage
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Common mistakes made on home renovation projects Home improvement projects can turn a house into a home. Homeowners plan scores of renovations to transform living spaces into rooms that reflect their personal tastes and comforts. Homeowners going it alone may find things do not always go as planned. In fact, a Harris Interactive study found that 85 percent of homeowners say remodeling is a more stressful undertaking than buying a home. But homeowners about to embark on home improvement projects can make the process go more smoothly by avoiding these common pitfalls. Failing to understand the scope of the project Some homeowners don’t realize just how big a commitment they have made until they get their hands dirty. But understanding the scope of the project, including how much demolition and reconstruction is involved and how much time a project will take can help homeowners avoid some of the stress that comes with renovation projects. For example, a bathroom renovation may require the removal of drywall, reinforcement of flooring to accommodate a new
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bathtub or shower enclosure and the installation of new plumbing and wiring behind walls. So such a renovation is far more detailed than simply replacing faucets.
File Photo
Not establishing a budget Homeowners must develop a project budget to ensure their projects do not drain their finances. If your budget is so inflexible that you can’t afford the materials you prefer, you may want to postpone the project and save more money so you can eventually afford to do it right. Without a budget in place, it is easy to overspend and that can put you in financial peril Continued On Page 18
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18 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Stop weeds before they take over Few things can be as troublesome to gardeners and landscapers as weeds. Weeds seemingly spring up overnight and quickly can overrun lawns and/or garden beds. Landscaping enthusiasts may spend countless hours and weekends coping with weeds without truly getting to the root of the problem. However, preventing weed growth need not be so difficult. According to the experts at “This Old House” and The Family Handyman, the secret to preventing weeds is to maintain a thick, healthy lawn. A vigorously growing lawn will crowd out weeds and block the sun weed seeds need to germinate and thrive. As a result, fewer herbicides may be needed and homeowners can spend less times on their hands and knees pulling out weeds. Mow at the right height Crabgrass is a notoriously virulent weed that can quickly snuff out blades of grass. Crabgrass likes hot,
dry conditions and it only takes one plant to spread the seeds that can overtake the lawn. Preventing these conditions can stop crabgrass from flourishing. Mowing at higher heights and leaving grass blades taller can shade the soil, helping to prevent the germination of crabgrass. Shady conditions also will help the soil retain moisture and prevent the arid conditions crabgrass likes so much. Water deeply Weeds are accustomed to growing in adverse conditions, including especially hot temperatures. When such conditions arise, weeds establish deep roots while the roots of the grass can easily die off. Instead, when watering, wet the soil to a depth of four to six inches. This helps grass to establish strong root systems that will help lawns overpower pesky weeds. Time weed killers Whether you manually remove weeds or apply weed $250 OFF any project $2,500 or more — or —18 months interest free financing!* Our look has changed but our services have not.
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Weeds, such as dandelions, can quickly take over lawns and gardens. File Photo Continued From Page 17
Common Mistakes down the line. Worrying about coming up with money to pay for materials and labor also can induce stress. Avoid the anxiety by setting a firm budget. Making trendy or overpersonal improvements Homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for the long run have more free reign when it comes to renovating their homes. Such homeowners can create a billiards room or paint a room hot pink if they so prefer. However, if the goal is to make improvements in order to sell a property, overly personal touches may make a property less appealing to prospective buyers. Trends come and go and improvements can be
Spring Questions? 763-367-7840
Recycling Days
East Bethel Ice Arena 20675 Hwy 65 NE, East Bethel Saturday, April 29 • 8:00 a.m.-Noon
This location will be accepting ALL listed recyclable items.
Coon Lake Beach Community center
ALSO!
182 Forest Road, East Bethel Saturday, May 6 • 8:00 a.m.-Noon
This location will only accept batteries, non-recyclables and scrap metal. NO appliances, electronics or furniture, please.
NO Household Hazardous Waste
Representatives reserve the right to refuse items.
These events are sponsored by the City of East Bethel and Cedar/East Bethel Lions and Lioness. Funded by the Anoka County Board of Commissioners and State (SCORE) Funds.
killers, timing is key. Combat weeds in the early spring before they have a time to fully form and start proliferating through seed disbursement. Once seeds spread, their growth is difficult to control. Recognize that no single herbicide or weeding tactic will work for every type of weed. Broadleaf weeds, like dandelions, unwanted grasses and sedges are the three most common types of weeds. Homeowners will have to adapt based on the type of weed that is most prevalent in their lawns.
Watch fertilizer amounts Strike a balance with fertilizer, finding the right amount to deliver continuous nutrition to the lawn, but not overfeed it so that weeds can thrive. Many lawns only require fertilizer once or twice annually, in the autumn and spring. By following these guidelines, lawn and garden enthusiasts can prevent the proliferation of unsightly and potentially harmful weeds. Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial
expensive. If your ultimate goal is to sell your home, opt for renovations that will look beautiful through the ages and avoid bold choices that may only appeal to a select few buyers. Forgetting to properly vet all workers It is important to vet your contractor, but don’t forget to vet potential subcontractors as well. Failing to do so can prove a costly mistake. Contractors often look to subcontractors to perform certain parts of a job and it is the responsibility of homeowners to vet these workers. Expecting everything to go as planned Optimism is great, but you also should be a realist. Knowing what potentially
could go wrong puts you in a better position to handle any problems should they arise. The project might go off without a hitch, but plan for a few hiccups along the way. Overestimating DIY abilities Overzealous homeowners may see a renovation project in a magazine or on television and immediately think they can do the work themselves. Unless you have the tools and the skills necessary to do the work, tackling too much can be problematic. In the long run, leaving the work to a professional may save you money. Home improvements can be stressful, but homeowners can lessen that stress by avoiding common renovation mistakes. Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial
Electronics Small/Medium Electronics (Household) ............................ First item $5 Unlimited items $10 Large Electronics (Office).........First item $10 Unlimited items $20 Computer (Laptop or Tower)................ FREE Monitor.........................................................$15 Treadmill .......................................................$5 Television (19" or smaller)..................... $20 ea (20-29") ................................................ $30 ea (30" and larger)................................... $40 ea (Projection & Wood Console).......... $50 ea
Furniture Mattress.................................................... $25 ea Small Furniture (Lazy Boy, Chair)............$30 Couch............................................................$40 Hide-A-Bed..................................................$50
Bulbs Fluorescent bulbs (4' and up).......................$1 HIDS bulbs.....................................................$2
• Scrap metal (Freimuth Enterprises) • Computer hard drives/disk drives, cables, circuit boards • Used bicycles • Used oil and oil filters (East Side Oil) • Ink jet cartridges, cell phones and rechargeable batteries (East Bethel Royalty) • Used and new fishing rods and reels for Fishing for Life (East Bethel Royalty) • Automotive batteries, used eyeglasses/ hearing aids, laser cartridges and food shelf donations (Cedar/East Bethel Lions/Lionesses) • Worn and torn flags for proper disposal
Appliances** Small Appliances...................................... $5 ea Normal Appliances (Washer, Dryer, Refrigerator etc.)................................. $10 ea Small Freon Items (Window Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier).............. $15 ea Gas Refrigerators (Ammonia or LP)............................min $75 ** Appliances should be free of food and debris, not compacted. No commercial appliances.
Lawn Equipment ...................... $5 each, Tractors $10 ea Tires Tires.......................... $5 / if attached to rim $6 Semi Tires .....................................................$10 Items Collected for
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
19
The benefits of hiring professional contractors The DIY movement has inspired many homeowners to tackle home repair and remodeling projects on their own. DIY projects can be rewarding and many homeowners who have embraced the DIY movement have discovered talents they never before knew they had. But no matter how simple popular home renovation television shows make remodeling projects appear, homeowners should know that such undertakings are far more difficult than they appear on television. Homeowners who overestimate their abilities and the time they have to complete projects can cost themselves substantial amounts of money. In fact, there are a variety of reasons homeowners might want to work with professional contractors when tackling home improvement projects.
File Photo
Experience Cost homes with eyes on improving the A trial and error approach can work Conventional wisdom suggests it’s resale value of those homes. But with various projects and problems. less expensive to do something yourself if homeowners want to showcase But applying such an approach to home than to hire someone else to do it for a newly remodeled kitchen when improvement projects is risky and you, but that’s not necessarily true of selling their homes, they should be potentially dangerous, not to mention home improvement projects. Labor prepared for prospective buyers to ask costly. Experienced professional costs typically account for a substantial who worked on the project. Fearing contractors with strong track records amount of professionally contracted potential problems down the road, (seek recommendations from friends projects, but homeowners can cut those some buyers might be put off by homes or neighbors) won’t have to go through costs by volunteering to do some of the that were remodeled by DIYers and not trial and error and are therefore more simpler tasks themselves. In addition, professional contractors. likely than DIYers to complete a project contractors often purchase materials Renovating a home on your own can on time and on budget. at a much lower cost than individual be a rewarding project for homeowners. homeowners because contractors buy But it’s important that homeowners Inspiration in bulk. So while labor costs might recognize the many benefits of working One oft-overlooked benefit of be lower on DIY projects, the cost of with professional contractors before working with professional contractors materials can offset those savings. making any final decisions with regard is the likelihood that they can draw to who will tackle their next project. up ideas for projects that homeowners Resale value Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial might otherwise never have thought Many homeowners renovate their up on their own. Homeowners without specific ideas in mind can ask contractors to come up with various scenarios before committing to a particular one. Veteran contractors can draw on years of Items Accepted for a FEE Saturday, April 29 experience to create 8:00 a.m. until designs that DIYers Appliances (no commercial appliances) might be incapable Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Dishwasher, 2:00 p.m. of coming up with Garbage Disposal, Humidifier, Microwave, Police and Public and/or incapable of Stove, Water Heater, Trash Compactor, Works Facility seeing through to Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Freezer or 4020 St. Francis Blvd. NW completion. Water Softener.............................................. $10 ea
Spring Recycling Day
Gas Refrigerators (Ammonia or LP)...........................Minimum $75
Tires
Passenger Tires with Rims..................................$3 Semi Tires........................................................... $10
e Springtim Green Barn at Garden Center
& Farm Market
Huge selection of Garden Seeds
Vegetables • Flowers Sunflowers Perennials • Herbs • Vines Organic & Heirloom Varieties Bulk Vegetable Seeds Seed Potatoes Onion Sets
Landscape
Mulch • Rock & Edging Memory Plaques Benches & Statues Cemetery Stands • Urns
Seed Starting Supplies Fertilizers Grass Seed • Tools
Unique Gifts
Gnomes • Frogs • Turtles Chickens • Angels Mushrooms Western Fairy Garden Accessories
Huge Selection of Pottery
Bird Baths & Statues Bird Houses & Feeders Bird Seed • Suet
Green Barn Garden Center
& Farm Market
3 miles south of Isanti on Hwy. 65 & 265 Call or check website for current hours.
greenbarngardencenter.com 763-444-5725
th
Electronics
Copier, Printer, VCR, DVD, Radio, Fax, Game Console, Cable Box, Pager, Small Server, MP3, Digital Converter, Satellite Receiver, Toaster, Vacuum or Blender...............................$5
Televisions
Up to 18"............................................................. $15 19" to 28"............................................................. $25 29" and above..................................................... $35 Console and Oversized TVs............................ $25 All wooden televisions................................add $5
Light Bulbs
Fluorescent 4' and Under........................50¢ each Fluorescent 5' and Over..........................75¢ each U Shape and Circular..............................75¢ each Compacts...................................................50¢ each High Intensity Discharge Lamps, (HIDS).....................................................$2.50 each Broken Fluorescent Lamps...............$1.00 per lb. Incandescent.............................................35¢ each PCB Ballast..........................................$1.00 per lb.
Household
Batteries Ni-Cad/rechargeable, alkaline, button, gel cell, etc.............................$1.25 per lb. Mattresses........................................................... $14 Box Springs......................................................... $14 Funded by Anoka County Board of Commissioners and State Select Committee On Recycling and the Environment (SCORE) Funds.
St. Francis
Don’t see an item you would like to recycle? Call Public Works at 763-233-5200 or visit www.stfrancismn.org/recycling
Items Accepted at NO CHARGE • Leaves and grass clippings, free of debris • Scrap metal free of oil, rubber and plastic parts • Used bicycles • Tires without rims • Automotive batteries • Large or small cardboard • Paper to be shredded • Household recyclables • Household goods and clothing donations, usable, clean and free of holes/tears
Volunteers reserve the right to refuse items. No hazardous materials accepted.
Appliance Curbside Pickup
Wednesday, April 26 & Thursday, April 27 Please sign-up with Public Works by calling 763-233-5200. Cost is $20 per appliance.
Prepayment is required.
Free Brush Curbside Pickup
Monday, April 24 & Tuesday, April 25
Please sign-up with Public Works by calling 763-233-5200. Free Brush Curbside Pickup is provided by North Metro Tree Service.
20 April 2017 The Courier
Anoka County Master Gardener events Lynne Hagen
Master Gardener Program Coordinator, University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County
The University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County Master Gardener Program is sponsoring events to make your lawn and garden shine. The public is invited to attend the engaging and informative 2017 Home Landscaping and Garden Fair on Saturday, April 8, 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Bunker Hills Activities Center, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW andover. This horticulture event has many new featured speakers. Registration for this event is required (space is limited). Cost of registration after March 31 and walk-ins is $30 per person. Parking is free. A material fee will be added to the optional workshops. Anoka County Master Gardener volunteers will have their annual fundraising plant sale on Tuesday, May 16, 4:00-7:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, May 17, 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the
Anoka Armory, 408 East Main Street, Anoka. Free Plant & Insect Diagnostic Clinics for Anoka County residents are designed to help homeowners identify problems and develop appropriate solutions for their landscapes by using researchbased information. Residents can: bring samples of garden, lawn plants or weeds for identification; damaged plant material for diagnosis of common insect or disease problems; receive recommendations for pest and weed control or discuss problems or concerns about lawns, trees, flowers, fruits, vegetables and pests. Clinics are held on Wednesday evenings at the Bunker Hills Activities Center from 6:00-8:00 p.m., May 17 through August 30 (no clinic the week of July 4). A traveling clinic will be held at the Nowthen Threshing Show, 7415 Old Viking Boulevard, Nowthen, August 18-20. For more information, please go to www.anokamastergardeners.org or for questions, call 763-755-1280.
Home Improvement & Service Guide Eagle Garage Door Co.
St. Francis Family Owned & Operated Serving the area since 1989
We service ALL BRANDS of garage doors and openers.
New Construction • Remodel Commercial • Residential Service
Dave Feders
Fixed right Give your door the first time! a spring tune-up!
763-753-2032
centralheatcool@gmail.com
All Major Brands FREE ESTIMATES
612.369.7906
www.CentralHVACmn.com
Kraig Domogalla
“Your Real Estate Specialist” 612-366-3925 Email: kraigdomogalla@aol.com
Results
Each office Independently Owned and Operated
Buy with confidence. Sell with success!
Cassie Clem Realtor®
612-213-9403 clemhomes@gmail.com www.cassandraclemhomes.com 23624 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite 5 St. Francis, MN 55070
| www.the-courier.org
Anoka County household hazardous waste facility and compost sites hours to change Erik Thorson
Anoka County Public Information
The Anoka County Household Hazardous Waste Facility schedule will change to warm weather hours of operation beginning April 1 through October 30. The facility will be open Wednesday, 2:00-8:00 p.m. and Monday, Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Visit the website for holiday closures. The facility is located at 3230 101st Avenue NE in Blaine, off Radisson Road. Residents dropping off materials at the site must provide proof of county residency, such as a driver’s license. The facility accepts household hazardous waste from residents of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey and Washington counties. For disposal options for waste, more information or directions to the facility, call Anoka County Recycling & Resource Solutions at 763-323-5730, visit AnokaCounty.us/hhw or email recycle@co.anoka.mn.us. Anoka County’s two compost sites will be open for extended hours from
Spring 2017
Basket & Planter Sale Thursday, May 11 7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
The Voc Ed/Work Program at Crossroads School & Vocational Center and Saints Academy is having their annual Basket & Planter Sale, just in time for Mother’s Day.
Plant Sale
Thursday, May 18 7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
The remaining baskets and planters that students created will be on sale, plus a variety of flowers, vegetables and accent plants. go Crossroads Proceeds toward the program for School & next year. Vocational Center and Saints Academy
4111 Ambassador Drive NW St. Francis
The Voc Ed/Work Program is taught by Glenda Kimpling. Saints Academy is taught by Scott Olson. For more information, email to glenda.kimpling@isd15.org
April 1 through November 30, weather permitting. The sites are located in Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids and Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Lino Lakes. The compost sites will accept leaves and non-woody yard waste free of charge up to four cubic yards. (Approximately eight lawn bags equal one yard.) A $5 fee will be assessed for each additional four cubic yards. Fees vary for tree waste including brush, evergreen boughs, logs and stumps. Organics include all food scraps, most non-recyclable and uncoated food-soiled paper and Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certified compostable products. FREE to county residents. For additional details visit AnokaCounty.us/Organics. Please keep yard waste, tree waste and organics separate as they are unloaded by residents in different areas of each site. Free unscreened compost is available at both sites. Please remember to bring your own shovel and containers. Compost Site Information ■ Bunker Hills Site 13285 Hanson Boulevard NW Coon Rapids, 763-767-7964 Monday-Friday: 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Sunday: Noon-5:00 p.m. ■ Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Site 7701 Main Street Lino Lakes, 651-429-3723 Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Sunday: Noon-5:00 p.m. For more information, visit AnokaCounty.us/Recycle or contact Anoka County Recycling & Resource Solutions at recycle@co.anoka.mn.us. Note: In 2017 all Anoka County phone numbers will be changing. New numbers will be posted on the Anoka County website as soon as they are assigned.
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
I Hate When That Happens
Randy Gerdin ASE certified technician, Gerdin Auto & Tire Owner
Old vs. New We have a fantastic client who has many different cars and trucks. The other day he brought in his 1941 Cadillac, a very, very nice car. This vehicle has a unique style that you just don’t see anymore. Of course it has the “40s” look—wide whitewall tires, long hood, rear fender skirts, lower front end and distinctive passenger compartment. The car has running boards and yes, there is real wood in them. He purchased this car and is working on it himself. The car needed a front-end alignment and was also running poorly. The suspension and engine were not original to the car, so the owner had to special order a number of parts in order to complete this project. We got the front end set up and continued to work on why it was running so poorly. The owner had already replaced a number of the fuel system components and wanted us to install the ignition components. We did, but it still ran poorly. Well, I am the “old” guy around our shop and this car was made even before my time. The tech that was working on it installed the parts but had limited experience with how to set everything up. We dug though the shop and found a timing light, tachometer and dwell meter. I used to use them daily, but had not used them in years. My eyes are not what they used to be (another challenge), but we started in. I knew what to do, but was unable to see some of the finer items and really had a hard time setting the gap on the points. It became a tag team effort—an old mind and someone with good eyes. After messing with the engine for a while, I felt the engine was running lean, meaning the carburetor was not flowing enough gasoline into the engine. We knew the fuel supply was adequate, so the problem had to be inside the carburetor. The owner had purchased and installed a new carburetor, so it really should be good. We pondered, tried a few tricks I knew from years ago, but no luck.
We decided to take the carburetor apart. It had been many years since I worked on this particular model, but I was remembering it as we went along. We took the front bowl cover off and found a bunch of rusty looking crud. That crud in the bowl is probably inside the carburetor as well. We took it apart and cleaned everything we could. Putting it back together is another chore. There are multiple items that need to line up correctly and the gaskets and O-ring must stay in place. After a couple attempts we finally got the carburetor back together with no leaks, but it still ran poorly. I left for a moment to take a phone call and when I returned, the Cadillac was running well. I asked the tech what he did and he said he tried one of my old tricks. It worked. We adjusted the idle mixture and idle speed and took it for a test drive. Back at the shop, was a late model pickup with an engine misfire and an unusually loud noise. (And I mean LOUD.) We were about to condemn the engine but kept working to find the root cause. After some research, a few phone calls and further investigation, we found the engine fuel management system was part of the issue. In this engine, the computer uses engine oil and a solenoid to shut down the engine lifters on four of the cylinders during certain situations to save fuel and for emission reasons, basically turning an 8-cylinder engine into a 4-cylinder one. The computer also will shut down the corresponding four fuel injectors. We found that when we used the scanner to manually shut down the system, the loud noise went away. What a difference in diagnostics from the 1941 Cadillac! We were using computers to talk to other computers to diagnose internal engine systems. We had not experienced this in the past and I hope we will never forget this one either. Fixing cars is a lot like the rest of life. We live and learn from our experiences. Hopefully, we don’t forget what we’ve learned. I hate when that happens.
Mollie’s Meanderings
Mollie Ziebart The Courier Advertising Representative
Greetings! I’m struggling with how to start this column, so I guess I will just announce that I have resigned from my position as advertising representative for The Courier. I have taken another position in the school district, located at Crossroads School & Vocational Center. I am working with students in the Saints Academy program. I think I am blessed with an ability to connect with kids; it really is a gift. All kids need and deserve adults who are dedicated to them. For the past year, I have missed working with kids. Looking for a change a year ago, I was very excited when I took the advertising rep position. There are parts of this job that I love and will miss, but I don’t think I’m cut out for the sales part. As a resident and parent in the school district, I love The Courier and thought it would simply sell itself. In today’s world, advertising strategies are changing quickly and I didn’t anticipate the impact social media would have on print advertising. The Courier offers very reasonable rates for a circulation of 13,400. Having a comprehensive advertising plan, including print and digital advertising, is very important for businesses large and small. I learned a lot this past year about the production of The Courier, honed my computer skills, met some amazing people in this community and even started writing my own column. I love getting out and meeting people. There are many hidden business treasures in this area and unless businesses advertise locally (hint, hint), these treasures can get missed. In our school district, I find if a business isn’t visible on a person’s regular driving routine, there is a good chance people won’t know about it. I have made some great friends by going into local businesses this past year. This has led me to my involvement with the St. Francis Lions and the St. Francis Community for Drug Awareness groups. I would like to thank my coworkers. It has been a privilege working with an amazing group in the ISD 15 Communications Department. They are smart, talented and all around great ladies; hats off to them and the work that they do. Pat and Kathleen, a dynamic duo, have a long-standing chemistry that truly works. Lisa, the new Community Education director, is amazing. She has great leadership skills and I’m excited to see what she has planned for the future. A new communications coordinator will be starting in April, so best of luck to Katrinna, as we bid a fond bon voyage to Heidi, who is on her way to Japan to teach English. Thank you all for your continued support and readership. It has been a pleasure serving this community and the businesses in it. I am not saying goodbye, as you will still see me around!
Anoka Tech hosts first Manufacturing Career Intent signing day
Fast affordable printing including FREE DELIVERY to the St. Francis Area
Fia Prpic
Anoka Technical College
Anoka Technical College hosted a Signing Day Ceremony recently in partnership with the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce. This was the first of what will become an annual event for the college. Sixteen students from Anoka High School, Anoka Hennepin Students from Anoka High School, Anoka Hennepin Technical Technical High School, Anoka High School, Anoka STEP and Anoka Technical College lined up STEP and Anoka Technical to have their proclamation signed by: Elaina Bleifield, Anoka College participated in the Technical College Vice President of Academics and Student Service; first annual ceremony to Erick Ajax, Owner of EJ Ajax; Mike Farley, Anoka High School solidify their intent to pursue Principal; Linda Tabor, Minnesota Department of Employment and a manufacturing career within Economic Development; Anoka STEP Mike Hilber, Manufacturing Anoka County. and Engineering instructor; Nancy Chave, Anoka Hennepin Students received a signed Technical High School Principal; Robert Dimke, owner of Lexington Proclamation/Manufacturing Manufacturing; and Jessica Lipa, Director of Anoka STEP. Career Intent by supporting Submitted Photo members of the education and Technology programs, visit AnokaTech.edu/ manufacturing community in Anoka County. For more information about Technical College ProgramsCourses/EngManufTech.aspx. and their Engineering, Manufacturing and
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612-588-8885 skylinegra@aol.com
We Buy Estates!
auctionmn.com
Every Tuesday Flea Market at 7:00 a.m. Auction at 9:00 a.m.
Sell your stuff by auction. Low commissions. No flea market vendor fees.
Bag it. Box it. Bring it or Buy it at Mau’s Corner. See www.auctionmn.com for details. Located 3 miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47 Tony Elfelt, Lic. #02-180 – Nowthen, MN
22 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Business Spotlight
MaryBeth Schmitt Family Speech & Therapy Services
Family Speech & Therapy Services Family Speech & Therapy Services was founded in 2004 with the goal of providing quality, family-centered therapy for individuals with communication disorders and other delays. Clients of all ages are seen at Andover, Edina, Otsego and St. Louis Park clinics. Owner Melissa Lonsky, M.A., CCC-SLP, has practiced as a speech-language pathologist for 15 years. She is a graduate of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Leadership in Healthcare program and is the president-elect of the Minnesota Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Family Speech & Therapy Services is known for a caring and supportive staff of speechlanguage pathologists and occupational therapists. We believe that parents know their children best and family participation in therapy and home practice speed progress. Our therapy is done in a one-on-one setting and family members are encouraged to attend or observe therapy sessions and are guided to lead therapeutic activities at home. Many children participate in therapy at Family Speech & Therapy Services in addition to receiving school-based therapy and some children just attend therapy in the summer to
Prepare yourself for a brand new career – one where your success is in your hands. As an Edward Jones Financial Advisor, you will form meaningful, long-term relationships with clients as you help them work toward their financial goals.
avoid a regression. Services we provide: Speech Therapy Our speech-language pathologists are dedicated to helping clients improve communication skills in all environments and therapy sessions are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual. Consider scheduling an evaluation if you have concerns in the following areas: ■ Understanding and/or using language ■ Speech sound errors that make it difficult for others to understand what your child is saying ■ Difficulty interacting with peers ■ Speech fluency Occupational Therapy Our occupational therapists are dedicated to helping children improve their participation in self-care, play and academic tasks. They also help children who have sensory processing difficulty (processing information related to sight, sound, touch, taste, smell and movement). Consider scheduling an evaluation if you have concerns in the following areas: ■ Struggling with gross or fine motor skills ■ Sensitive to touch, sound, smell or movement
THE FINANCIAL ADVISOR OPPORTUNITY • Unlimited earnings potential • Financial training to help you succeed in your new role • Firm-provided office in your community • Support from a firm committed to your success
Edward Jones does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veterans status, genetic information or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
Blake A Cheeley,
CRPC®, AAMS® Financial Advisor 23306 Cree Street NW Suite 102 St. Francis, MN 55070 763-753-2988
Make more than just a living.
careers.edwardjones.com
■ Has difficulty transitioning from one activity to the next ■ Expresses distress with grooming (tooth brushing, face washing, nail cutting, etc.) ■ Is easily distracted in the classroom ■ Struggling with functional social skills Feeding Therapy Our team of therapists promote stronger feeding skills by helping children eat a full range of foods. Therapists and families work together to improve underlying oral motor and sensory skills to create positive mealtimes. Some indicators for an evaluation include: ■ Limited food range, avoids certain food textures or food groups ■ Difficulty transitioning from pureed to table foods ■ Delayed self-feeding skills ■ Difficulty sucking, swallowing or chewing
Family Speech & Therapy Services staff.
■ Mealtimes are stressful and often prolonged, including tantrums or other problematic mealtime behaviors The initial evaluation(s) consist of standardized testing which will compare an individual’s skills to the skills of their same-age peers. Results of the evaluation will provide families with the information needed to make an informed decision about needed services.
Submitted Photo
We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate busy families, including early morning and evening sessions. Most insurance carriers cover speech and occupational therapy services and Family Speech & Therapy Services is an in-network provider for all major carriers. Now is the time to call 763-755-4275 or visit FamilySpeech.com for more information if you are interested in summer therapy.
Financial Focus
Blake Cheeley Edward Jones Financial Advisor
Try to overcome roadblocks to a comfortable retirement In your life, you will want to take many journeys. Some are physical—perhaps you’ll finally visit the French Riviera or the Caribbean. Others involve personal growth—one day you’ll finally become fluent in that foreign language you’ve been studying. But of all the destinations you can identify, few will be as important as retirement—specifically, a comfortable retirement. And that’s why it’s so important to consider the roadblocks you might encounter on your road to the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. Here are five of the most common obstacles: Insufficient investments Very few of us have ever reported investing “too much” for their retirement. But a great many people regret that they saved and invested too little. Don’t make that mistake. Contribute as much as you can afford to your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan and increase your contributions whenever your salary goes up. Even if you do participate in your retirement plan at work, you may also still be eligible to fund an IRA, so take advantage of that opportunity, too. And always look for other ways to
cut expenses and direct this “found” money toward your retirement. Underestimating your longevity You can’t predict how long you’ll live, but you can make some reasonable guesses—and you might be surprised at your prospects. According to the Social Security Administration, men reaching age 65 today can expect to live, on average, until age 84.3, while women turning age 65 today can anticipate living, on average, until age 86.6. That’s a lot of years. You’ll need to plan for them when you create long-term saving, investing and spending strategies. Not establishing a suitable withdrawal rate Once you are retired, you will likely need to start withdrawing money from your 401(k), IRA and other retirement accounts. It’s essential that you don’t withdraw too much each year—obviously, you don’t want to run the risk of outliving your resources. That’s why you need to establish an annual withdrawal rate that’s appropriate for your situation, incorporating variables such as your age, the value of your retirement accounts, your
estimated lifestyle expenses and so on. Calculating such a withdrawal rate can be challenging, so you may want to consult with a professional financial advisor. Taking Social Security at the wrong time You can start taking Social Security as early as age 62, but your checks will be bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, which will probably be 66 or 67 or when your payments “max out” at 70. You might not be able to afford to wait until then, but by postponing the date you begin taking withdrawals, you could help yourself considerably. Ignoring inflation It’s been low in recent years, but inflation hasn’t disappeared and it could rise at exactly the wrong time—when you’re retired. That’s why you’ll want your portfolio to include some investments with the potential to outpace inflation, even during your retirement years. By being aware of these roadblocks and taking steps to overcome them, you can help smooth your journey toward retirement and once you get there, you may enjoy it more. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
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Income Tax Tips Where’s My Refund? tool is the best way to check tax refund status The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) remind taxpayers that while more than 90 percent of federal tax refunds are issued in 21 days or less, some refunds may take longer. Many factors can affect the timing of a refund after the IRS receives the return. Also, taxpayers should take into consideration the time it takes a financial institution to post the
refund to an account or for it to arrive in the mail. The best way to check the status of a refund is online through the Where’s My Refund? tool at IRS.gov or via the IRS2Go mobile app. “The majority of taxpayers receive a refund and we understand those filers want to know when their refund will
IRS impersonation telephone scams alert An aggressive and sophisticated phone scam targeting taxpayers, including recent immigrants, has been making the rounds throughout the country. Callers claim to be employees of the IRS, but are not. These con artists can sound convincing when they call. They use fake names and bogus IRS identification badge numbers. They may know a lot about their targets and they usually alter the caller ID to make it look like the IRS is calling. Victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer. If the victim refuses to cooperate, they are then threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license. In many cases, the caller becomes hostile and insulting. Or, victims may be told they have a refund due to try to trick them into sharing private information. If the phone isn’t answered, the scammers often leave an “urgent” callback request. Note that the IRS will never:
A 55+ rental housing community offering comfort and convenience at an affordable rate!
■ Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail you a bill if you owe any taxes. ■ Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying. ■ Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe. ■ Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. Remember: scammers change tactics Aggressive and threatening phone calls by criminals impersonating IRS agents remain a major threat to taxpayers, but variations of the IRS impersonation scam continue yearround and they tend to peak when scammers find prime opportunities to strike. Source: www.irs.gov, News and Events 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
Our Saviour’s Crazy Color Carnival
Preschool
Now registering for 2017-18 school year.
Friday, April 7, 5:30-7:00 p.m. Games, balloon animals and face painting and food. Offering 2, 3 & 4 extended day and Admission: $3/person, kindergarten readiness class options. $10 max/family For registration information, please contact Michelle Bauer, Preschool Director mbauer@oursaviourslc.org, by phone 763-434-6117 ext. 123 or visit www.oursaviourslc.org under Preschool.
Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church • 19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel
be issued. Our Where’s My Refund? tool continues to be the best way for taxpayers to get the latest information,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. Taxpayers eager to know when their refund will be arriving should use the Where’s My Refund? tool rather than calling the IRS and waiting on hold or ordering a tax transcript. The IRS updates the status of refunds once a day, usually overnight, so checking more than once a day will not produce new information. Where’s My Refund? has the same information available to IRS telephone assistors so there is no need to call unless requested to do so by Where’s My Refund? Contrary to a myth rumored in social media, ordering a tax transcript will not help taxpayers find out when they will get their refund. The IRS notes that the information on a transcript does not necessarily reflect the amount or timing of a refund. While taxpayers can use a transcript to validate past income and tax filing status for mortgage, student and small business loan applications and to help with tax preparation, they should use Where’s My Refund? to check the status of their refund. Where’s My Refund? can be checked
Lynn Karasch, MBA, CPA
Specializing in Individual & Small Business Returns By appointment Phone 763-413-3090 Fax 763-434-4739 www.ldkaccounting.com
24 hours after the IRS has received an e-filed return or four weeks after receipt of a mailed paper return. Where’s My Refund? has a tracker that displays progress through three stages: (1) Return Received, (2) Refund Approved and (3) Refund Sent. Users who access Where’s My Refund? on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go app must have information from their current, pending tax return to access their refund information. The IRS continues to strongly encourage the use of e-file and direct deposit as the fastest and safest way to file an accurate return and receive a tax refund. The IRS expects that more than four out of five tax returns will be filed electronically, with a similar proportion of refunds issued through direct deposit. The IRS Free File program offers free brand-name software to those with incomes of $64,000 or less. Seventy percent of the nation’s taxpayers are eligible for IRS Free File. All taxpayers, regardless of income, can use Free File fillable forms, which provide electronic versions of IRS paper forms to complete and file. Both options are available only through IRS.gov. Source: www.irs.gov, News and Events
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Ta x P r e pa r at i o n
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763-753-5521 Serving the St. Francis area since 1987
24 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Sports & Outdoors Anoka County Parks and Recreation programs and activities for April Erik Thorson
Anoka County Public Information
Check out Anoka County Parks and Recreation for fun seasonal programs and activities. To register or for more information, call 651-429-8007 or visit anokacountyparks.com. The Wargo Nature Center is located at 7701 Main Street in Lino Lakes and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is at 9750 Egret Boulevard NW in Coon Rapids. Nature Play: Spring Arrivals April 6, 10:00-11:15 a.m. Wargo Nature Center Ages 2-5 (with an adult). It’s here! We’ll go outside to look for signs of spring, sing songs and make a craft. This program is geared for 2-5 year olds who are accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required. Cost: $3/child and $3/adult (+tax) Lunch with a Naturalist April 12, (Spring Wildflowers) 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Wargo Nature Center Ages 50+ Bring your lunch and join a naturalist for our Lunch with a Naturalist series. These monthly presentations will include local natural history information and possibly a relaxing stroll on the trails at Wargo. Any equipment that may be needed will be provided. Pre-registration is not required. Cost: Free Rockin’ Reptiles April 15, 1:00-2:15 p.m. Wargo Nature Center All Ages. Are snakes slimy? Can some turtles
really live to be 100 years old? Come find out about the fascinating world of reptiles. Through hands-on activities we’ll learn all about snakes, turtles and lizards; we’ll even meet the nature center’s resident reptiles. This program is best suited for children ages 5-9 but all ages are welcome! This is a family program and children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Preregistration is required. Cost: $5/person (+tax) Earth Day Celebration April 22 10:00 a.m.-Noon Earth Day Cleanup 12:30-3:00 p.m. Earth Day Celebration Wargo Nature Center Join us at Wargo Nature Center for a free fun-filled family Earth Day cleanup and celebration, complete with a climbing wall and light refreshments. Learn about Wargo’s unique offerings and activities, make your own earth art project, listen to live music, explore the trails and enjoy the lovely spring weather! Also, be sure to visit the Earth Day Fair where local organizations will provide information and businesses will showcase earth-friendly products. Cost: Free Intro to Nature Photography April 29, 1:00-3:30 p.m. Wargo Nature Center Ages 15+. Love nature? Are you just starting in nature photography or thinking about starting? Want to take great outdoor photos to enjoy all year? If so, join a local photographer to learn some tips and tricks for taking great photos while out in nature. We’ll discuss
Coming Soon
Summer Camps Check for more details in the May Courier or online at www.communityed15.com Registration opens soon. Camps offered Summer 2017 Football Basketball Girls Soccer
Tennis Track and Field Volleyball
Weight Training and Conditioning Wrestling
Contact Diane Guinn, Rec Department Manager for more info 763-213-1823. Direct registration questions to 763-213-1588. The Rec Department a division of ISD 15 Community Education
File Photo
equipment, photography principles and other techniques to help you progress as a nature photographer. Weather permitting, we will also spend some time outside practicing these skills.
Please bring your preferred camera – all camera types are welcome! No experience required for this program. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Pre-registration is required. Cost: $5/person (+tax) Kids Fishing Clinic May 6, 9:00 a.m.-Noon Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, Cenaiko Lake, Coon Rapids The Kid’s Fishing Clinic is a free event open to all children ages 5 and up. Children will learn about lure selection, casting, boat and water safety, fishing ethics and more. All participants and chaperones will receive a lunch including hot dog, chips and pop. Children will also receive a kit of fishing equipment and accessories. No reservations required. Registration closes at 11:00 a.m. Cost: Free
Upcoming Events at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve Dr. Caitlin Potter
Coordinator, Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve
April 8 Bluebirds galore! Join Bob Walz, the Chisago County coordinator for the Bluebird Recovery Project of Minnesota, to learn about bluebirds and citizen science and to go for a birding walk at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (CCESR). Bring your binoculars! Free and families welcome. April 22 Red-headed Woodpecker Recovery Project annual volunteer training. Attend this yearly training to become a part of CCESR’s longest-running citizen science project. As a member of the project, you’ll help monitor and study Cedar Creek’s red-headed woodpecker population and contribute to the conservation of this incredible species. Please RSVP to Caitlin at caitlin@umn. edu. Free, adults recommended. May 5-7 Bird Language spring retreat. During this weekend-long program, you will be immersed in a community of nature connection mentors and learners and experience life through the eyes of a bird. Through exercises, instruction, games and time in the woods, the community setting will amplify each individual’s learning journey. As a group, participants will begin to uncover unique patterns of the local birds and animals and what they are
telling us through their behavior and language. RSVP and fee required. For more information and to register, contact Jonathan at poppele@umn.edu Fee to attend, adults only. May 13 International Migratory Bird Day. Stop by to learn more about bird migration, bird watch with local experts, meet bird advocates from the University of Minnesota and more! Free and families welcome. May 20 Citizen Science Festival at the Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM). Come visit the Science Museum and, in addition to all the regular wonderful things to do there, learn about many exciting citizen science projects in the local area that are looking for new volunteers! CCESR projects will have two tables at the event and we hope you’ll stop by! Regular SMM admission fee and families welcome. Visit the CCESR Facebook page and website for more details and additional events (including a new blog about Minnesota wildflowers!) added throughout the season! Let us know if you can attend by contacting Caitlin at caitlin@umn.edu or 612-301-2602! With the exception of the Citizen Science Festival all events take place at Cedar Creek’s Lindeman Discovery and Research Center, 2660 Fawn Lake Drive NE in East Bethel. Detailed information on events can be found at z.umn.edu/ ccEvents.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
25
Youth Game Warden Camp at Sherburne National St. Francis High School Wildlife Refuge baseball looks to build
on last year’s success
Michelle Bengson
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Services Manager
Kids, can you imagine a job that allows you to investigate a wildlife forensic crime scene, use outdoor survival skills, help animals and visit with other people all in one day? Well, that’s the career of a game warden! If you would like to experience it for yourself, Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) invites all 5th to 7th-graders to a one day Youth Game Warden Camp! In partnership with the Friends of Sherburne, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Sherburne NWR will host the camp on Saturday, April 29, 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. at the refuge’s Oak Savanna Learning Center. The camp cost is $20, which includes a camp T-shirt, lunch and a fun day of hands-on experiences. Camp Activities At the camp, federal and state game wardens stationed throughout Minnesota will come together to serve as the youth’s teachers and lead them through a variety of fun, job-related challenges. Camp activities include investigating wildlife forensic crime scenes and working a case, decisionmaking about wildlife management and enforcement, exploring antlers, skulls and waterfowl, practicing outdoor survival and archery and meeting canine officer Skip. At the end of the day, participants will not only gain insights into a game warden’s job, but also an awareness and respect for Minnesota’s natural resources. How to Register Registration packets are available electronically at www. fws.gov/refuge/sherburne. By contacting the refuge at 763-389-3323 or Sherburne@ fws.gov, registration packets can also be emailed or mailed to you. In order to receive a T-shirt, registration packets must be received by Friday, April 14. Spots are limited, so register as soon as possible! Checks should be made out to the Friends of Sherburne and mailed with registration packets to: Refuge Headquarters, 17076 293 Avenue, Zimmerman, MN, 55398.
Luke Scardigli
SFHS Saints Baseball Head Coach
Fifth to seventh graders are invited to Sherburne NWR to learn about protecting Minnesota’s natural resources at the refuge’s first-ever Youth Game Warden Camp. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
For questions or more information, contact the Camp Coordinator and Wildlife Officer, Kelly Modla at Kelly_Modla@fws.gov or 907-260-7021. The camp will take place
at the Oak Savanna Learning Center which is located ½ mile west of refuge headquarters off Sherburne County Road 9 at 16797 289th Avenue NW, Zimmerman. Look for event signs.
Natural resource field trip registration open Jy Xiong
University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County
Registration for the Natural Resource Field Trip is now open for area 4th and 5th grade classrooms. For over 50 years, the University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County, has provided this environmental education and scientific inquiry to Anoka County area schools. Last year’s field trip hosted over 750 students from 9 different schools and had 23 instructors. Students have the chance to learn about the environment in a natural, outdoor setting. The field trip will be held this year on May 1-5 at the Bunker Hills Regional Park in Andover. Visit our website at http://z.umn.edu/1cwu for more information and registration details. If you are interested in being an instructor at our Natural Resources Field Trip, contact the Anoka County Extension office at 763-755-1280.
As the calendar turns to April, thoughts of baseball fill our minds. The St. Francis High School baseball team started practice March 20 and players are preparing for their scheduled season opener April 4 at home against Cambridge-Isanti. St. Francis High School baseball has a long history of success, finishing at .500 or above in 18 of the past 21 years. Included in that stretch are three state tournament appearances. Last year’s team added to that tradition by going 11-9 in the regular season and 9-4 in the Mississippi 8 Conference, good for a second place finish. The Saints had a disappointing Section 7AAAA playoff performance, losing to Blaine and Cambridge-Isanti. Hopes are high for this year’s team, with many returning players who have significant varsity experience. Leading the group are four All-Conference performers from last year—seniors James Green (P, 3B), Max Spitzer (P, 1B), Trevor Weidt (C, IF) and Jake Scardigli (OF) as well as an Honorable Mention All-Conference performer senior Parker Marshall (OF). Other seniors expected to battle for playing time and contribute include Conor Sullivan, Austin Spindler, Evan Smith, Justin Tatley and Adam Fritz. The program has a light but good crop of juniors, a solid group of sophomores and a talented incoming freshman class. The Saints have a great varsity schedule this year highlighted by games on back-to-back nights in April at two of the best ballparks in the metro area. The Saints will play Rogers on April 25 at 7:30 p.m. at CHS Field (home of the St. Paul Saints) in St. Paul. The following night, the Saints will play Irondale at 6:30 p.m. at Siebert Field on the University of Minnesota Minneapolis campus. There are also three consecutive Friday night games in May against section opponents—May 5 at home versus Andover, May 12 at home versus Duluth East and May 19 at Blaine. First pitch of each game is at 7:00 p.m. For a full 2017 schedule please visit gostfrancissaints.com. Please come out and support Saints baseball.
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26 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Meetings, Benefits & Events Lisa Fryer Benefit
Lions/Lioness
Seniors
Chamber of Commerce
Saturday, April 8 Boulder Lodge Bar & Grill, 18919 Lake George Blvd., Oak Grove Silent Auction 1-4 pm, Bake Sale, Men’s & Women’s Softball Tournament On May 24, 2016, Lisa was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. She went through months of treatment before having a bone marrow transplant in September 2016. Please come support Lisa to help her get through this challenging time in her life as she continues to recover and face medical expenses.
CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONESS CLUB Meets the first Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at Maxx’s Restaurant & Bar on Hwy. 65. For membership information call Yvonne Johnson, 763-434-6985. We Serve!
Oak Grove Seniors Meet the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at the Oak Grove City Hall at noon for a potluck and short business meeting. Bingo follows each business meeting. For information about the club and events, call Marion Schulz at 763-444-5652.
St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce Upcoming breakfast networking meeting is April 12, 8:00-9:00 a.m. at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in St. Francis. Board meeting is April 19, 11:00 a.m. at the St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street. Meetings are open to the public. Visit www.stfrancischamber.org or call 763-438-5163 for more information.
Lions and Lioness Annual Craft And Garage Sale
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 at Nowthen City Hall on the first Thursday of the month for the board meeting and on the third Thursday of the month for the membership meeting. Please email nowthenlions@yahoo.com.
Ruth Dutchak
Cedar/East Bethel Lions
The Cedar/East Bethel Lions and Lioness will hold their annual Craft and Garage Sale, April 20, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., April 21, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. and April 22, 9 a.m.-Noon. Set up starts at 8 a.m., April 19 and vendors must have their spaces cleaned up by 3 p.m., April 22. Sale is held at the East Bethel Ice Arena, 20675 Highway 65 NE in East Bethel. Lions and Lioness are seeking vendors and crafters. Table rental is $10/table of any size up to 8 feet (you provide your own table/s). To reserve your space or for questions, contact Lion Heather Rickbeil at 763-301-4567. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. All profits are used to support our local community.
Oak Grove Lions French Toast Breakfast Join the Oak Grove Lions on Sunday, April 23, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Oak Grove Senior Center, 19900 Nightingale Street NW, Oak Grove for their 12th annual French Toast Breakfast fundraiser. Cost is adults $7, children (12 & under) $5 and family $21. Save $1 by buying tickets in advance from area Boy Scouts and Oak Grove Lions Club members. For more information contact Mark at 763-753-2215 or Cheryl at 763-753-4602. Proceeds from ticket sales help area youth groups. The Oak Grove Seniors will be hosting a bake sale during the event.
ISD 15 School Board ISD 15 SCHOOL Board Meetings: Monday, April 10 and 24 —Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. at Central Services Center, Community Room, 4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St. Francis.
Business Edward Jones Coffee Club meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. at Bridge Street Coffee, 3122 Viking Blvd., Oak Grove.
CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONS CLUB Meets bimonthly, first and third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., at Maxx’s Restaurant & Bar on Hwy. 65. Call Judy Ricke at 763-226-4893. Oak Grove Lions club Meet every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Oak Grove City Hall, 7:00 p.m., adjourning at 8:00 p.m. For more information, call Lion Mark Silvernagel at 763-753-2215.
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 Mary Madden at 763-444-5020 or Cheryl Eldstrom at 763-753-4602 or email bluesage51@ gmail.com. St. Francis Lions Club 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 763-7531205 or visit www.stfrancismn.lionwap.org.
City & Township Meetings Andover City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., 1685 Crosstown Boulevard 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 Boulevard NW, Nowthen 763-441-1347 East Bethel City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. 2241 221st Avenue NE, East Bethel 763-367-7840 Oak Grove City Council Meets 2nd & last Monday 7:00 p.m. 19900 Nightingale Street 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
St. Francis Seniors Life is good when you can make new friends, get out and enjoy the multitude of activities that our community has to offer. We meet the first and third Thursday of each month at the St. Francis American Legion. Social time and lunch begins at noon, with the meeting beginning at 1:00 p.m. and games until 3:00 p.m. We play cards, bingo, scrabble, cribbage, go on trips, lunch outings, have picnics and stay active as we get older. Come and see what we are about. Call President Ray Steinke at 763-753-1871. East Bethel Seniors Dances are held 1:00-4:00 p.m. Cost is $6, lunch included. The Friday, April 7 dance will have old time music played by Jim Armstrong Entertainment for May 5 is by Dick Szyplinski. All are welcome to our Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, April 9, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Serving pancakes, French toast, sausage, juice, coffee and choice of egg, 50¢ per egg. Cost for breakfast is $5 for adults and $2 for children under 10. Are you 55 or older? Come and enjoy some companionship. All are welcome. Seniors meet the third Thursday of each month for a 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 with potluck at noon; fourth Wednesday is crafts only, 9:00 a.m.-noon. Cribbage once a month, call Barb for date/time at 763434-6179. We also go on tours, etc. The East Bethel Senior Center is available for rent, call Dennis at 763-434-9244. Join East Bethel Seniors for $10 a year and receive a monthly newsletter. The East Bethel Senior Center is located one mile east of Highway 65 on 221st Avenue in East Bethel.
Health & Fitness
North 65 Chamber of Commerce Membership recognition meeting is April 19, 11:00 a.m. For location and more information visit www.north65chamber.com. East Bethel Chamber of Commerce Membership networking meeting are the second Thursday of each month. Board Meetings are the fourth Tuesday, 8:00-9:00 a.m. Visit www.eastbethelchamber.com for locations and more. Ham Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Networking luncheon meeting is April 12, 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Visit www.hamlakechamber for location and more information. The Board of Directors meeting is April 19, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at 21st Century Bank, 17635 Central Avenue NE in Ham Lake.
American Legion American Legion Auxiliary Unit 622 – St. Francis General membership meets 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 the second Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. All members of the post are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.
AA/NA AA/NA Meeting 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.
New East Bethel TOPS weight loss support group meeting. Meeting held at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 1450 237th Avenue NE, East Bethel, Mondays at 5:30 p.m. Visitors are welcome to their first meeting free or charge with no obligation.
AA Meets at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Tops Chapter MN #1774 Meets every Tuesday 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.
Independent School District 15 is looking for the following: Custodians, Educational Assistants, Nutrition Services, Bus Drivers and Substitutes. Please visit www.isd15.org and click on employment.
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 visit www.longlakeluth.org. For general information on the GriefShare program, visit www.griefshare.org.
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
27
Life Anoka County Library Calls for Teens to Write On! Friends Book Sale success Patrick Jones
Anoka County Library
Teens in Anoka County have a chance to show off their skills in Anoka County Library’s second annual “Write On!” short story writing contest. Teens may submit a short story online April 1-30. Three prize-winning stories will be selected in three categories: Grades 6-8, Grades 9-10 and Grades 11-12. The nine winning authors will receive a gift certificate and their stories will be posted on the Anoka County Library website. Find submission guidelines at anokacountylibrary.org/WriteOn2017. “Seventy-six teens participated in our first year and we hope to increase that number in 2017,”
said Anoka County Library Board President Dan Greensweig. “For last year’s winning teens, this was an example of how libraries transform lives by providing youth a chance to show their peers and the larger community, their talent.” Winning stories will be selected by a panel of judges and will be announced at an event at the Northtown Library on Saturday, May 20 at 2:00 p.m. The Northtown Library is located at 711 County Road 10 NE in Blaine. Winning entries will be online starting June 1 to help kick off the Library’s 2017 Summer Library Experience program. “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to showcase their writing talent and I encourage all teens to submit a sample of their work,” said Anoka County Commissioner Mike Gamache, who serves as the county’s library board liaison. The “Write On!” contest is sponsored by the Friends of the Anoka County Library. For more information, please visit your local Anoka County Library or the library website at anokacountylibrary.org.
Educate before you medicate Lauren Bul
Minnesota Poison Control System
The Minnesota Poison Control System and Minnesota Commissioner of Health, Dr. Edward Ehlinger, are reminding all Minnesotans that medications can be helpful but must be used and handled with care. “Poisonings can happen anytime, anywhere and to anyone,” said Dr. Jon Cole, medical director of the Poison Center. “Over half of the poison exposures recorded in Minnesota last year were related to medications.” The commissioner has noted that drug-related overdoses have been an issue over the past several years, with 572 deaths occurring in Minnesota in 2015. “Many of these deaths were due to prescription medications rather than illegal street drugs. The fact that this epidemic is not slowing down shows just how important it is to increase awareness of this problem during National Poison Prevention Week,” Dr. Ehlinger stated. “Health care providers have a responsibility to educate patients about the benefits and risks of any medications. This is especially important in light of rising opioid overdose deaths.” While much needs to be
done to stop this epidemic, individuals can still make some simple changes. The Minnesota Poison Control System offers these tips for safe medication use, storage and disposal:
File Photo
■ Take medications carefully by following label instructions and having your pharmacist or doctor check for potential interactions between prescription, overthe-counter and herbal medicines. ■ Keep all medications up high and out of sight, preferably locked up.
■ Do not share medications with friends or family members, even if they have been prescribed the same type of medication. ■ Never take your medication in front of children, as they are likely to mimic. ■ Properly dispose of medications. Contact your county government for disposal options. Educate yourself Learn about poison prevention and poison center services. Take the new online training course available at training.mnpoison.org. For questions or concerns about medications, please contact the Minnesota Poison Control System at 1-800222-1222. Services are free, confidential and available 24/7. For general prevention tips and materials, follow them on Twitter @MNpoisoncenter or Facebook.
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Gerald Golden
Friends of the Isanti Area Library
The Friends of the Isanti Area Library (FIAL) are excited about the success of their 4th Annual I Love to Read Month Book Sale at Junction Bowl. Over 3,000, community member donated books, DVDs and audiobooks were included in the sale. Thank you to everyone who participated in this special event. Special thanks go to Junction Bowl and the local authors who were on hand to discuss and sign their books: Michelle Fryc, Kate Goebel, Jim Hove, June Kramin, Joseph McGarry, Sue Sittard and Mary Stoffel. Profits from sales are used by FIAL to help support the East Central Regional Library Outreach Site and its programs, as well as to promote literacy in the Isanti area. Librarian Tim Olson is eager to help patrons find the books and other media they want. The Outreach Library, located in Isanti City Hall, is open Wednesdays, noon-4:00 p.m. FIAL provides a computer and printer at the Author Jim Hove was on hand Outreach Library, along with at the book sale to sign his a member to help answer most recent book Exploring an questions. Alien Culture: What can we learn Do you order from Amazon. from the Vikings, Scandinavian com? A percentage of your Immigrants and Nordic People purchases on Amazon could be Today? Submitted Photo donated to FIAL when you log in at smile.amazon.com. Simply enter “Friends of the Isanti Area Library Inc.” when selecting your charity choice. There is no cost to you. The public is welcome to attend planning meetings on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in Isanti. FIAL has books, DVD movies and audiobooks available for purchase at the Isanti Outreach Library year round. Media donations are appreciated—especially westerns, cookbooks, children’s and large print books. Please contact Susi at 763-4444585 or Susi@IsantiLibrary.org to arrange a drop off or for more information about FIAL and its services.
Birth Jolene Willow Davis was born on March 17, 2017 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces and was 21 inches long. Proud parents are Julie and James of East Bethel.
St. Francis Auto Parts Local one stop auto parts store with over 100,000 in stock parts and nationwide parts locating.
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28 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
4-H Clover Dash fundraiser Couple and Kim Ferguson relationship Anoka County 4-H is hosting its 7th annual 4-H Clover Dash on health 4-H Volunteer, University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County
St. Francis Middle School 7th-graders had the opportunity to go snow tubing at Elm Creek in Maple Grove on February 23.
Michaella Fennell, SFMS 7th-Grade Science Teacher
Saturday, April 29 starting at 9:00 a.m. There will be a 5K Fun Run/ Walk and 2-Mile Walk. This event will take place at Bunker Hills Regional Park in Andover. The route will wind through the scenic park on paved trails. This event is for everyone. There will be prizes for top finishers along with a random prize drawing for all participants. More information is available on our website at www. anokacounty.us/2432/4-H-Clover-Dash. All proceeds from this fundraiser will support Anoka County 4-H Youth Development programs and scholarships. The event will also feature the 4-H health project and making healthy choices. If you have any questions or if your company would like to be a sponsor, contact Kim Ferguson at 763-767-2874 or fergu029@ umn.edu.
Alexandra House announces free workshops and support groups in April Tina Bronson
Alexandra House Communications Marketing Director
On March 2 St. Francis Middle School 6th-graders went to Wild Mountain to take skiing lessons and enjoy the slopes.
Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator
3220 Bridge Street, Suite 107 in the St. Francis Mall
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Alexandra House offers several educational workshops and support groups to help survivors cope with the confusion, anger and fear often experienced after episodes of sexual assault and domestic violence. These workshops and groups enable survivors to share their experiences, express their feelings and provide them with support to overcome their fears and feelings of isolation. Most meetings are held at the Alexander House in Blaine. For more information or to register call 763-656-1366 or visit alexandrahouse.org. Restorative Parenting Group (Mondays) April 3, 10, 17, 24, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Journey of Healing Therapeutic Group (Mondays) April 3, 10, 17, 24, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Call Therapy & Support Services Program at 763-656-1366 to schedule a pre-screening appointment. Coffee & Conversations (Tuesdays) April 4, 11, 18, 25, 10:00-11:00 a.m. More than Survivors: Healing Arts Support Group (Tuesdays) April 4, 11, 18, 25, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Self-Esteem Support Group (Wednesdays) April 5, 12, 19, 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Healthy Relationships With Adult Children (Thursdays) Now–April 16, 1:00-2:30 p.m. Location: Linwood Senior Center, Linwood. On Our Way – For Women 50+ (Thursdays) April 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Support and Healing Group for Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence (Thursdays) April 6, 13, 20, 27, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mindfulness & Meditation (Fridays) April 7, 14, 24, 28, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
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Two miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47 Visit us on the web at www.sfvetclinic.com
763-213-8143
763-444-9359
Guy E. Sederski
West Bethel United Methodist Church
Gail E. Sederski, Associate Professor in the Department of Family Development at the University of Wisconsin Extension and Guy E. Sederski, pastor of West Bethel United Methodist Church, were recently certified in a master training program on couple and relationship health. Internationally recognized scholars from Denver, Colorado facilitated the training on how to use skills and strategies from PREP in individual or couple therapy. The PREP (Prevention and Relationship Education Program) approach is a scientifically-based and empirically-tested method of teaching relationship education based on over 30 years of research in the field of relationship health and sponsored by the National Institute of Health (NIH). The following key concepts are critical in helping couples or individuals how to communicate effectively, work as a team to solve problems, manage conflicts without damaging closeness while preserving and enhancing commitment and friendship: ■ Communicate with emotional safety—talk without fighting ■ Deepen commitment, nurture a vision for a future together and become more decisional—decide, not slide ■ Keep fun and friendship alive ■ Recognize critical milestones in each other’s histories in order to foster understanding, intimacy and reduce negative interpretation Also for individuals struggling with relationship issues: ■ Act on strategies that can be employed even if their partner will not (or is not) participating in therapy ■ Do their part to strengthen a relationship ■ Recognize the nature of the reasons they are staying in their relationship and build a plan of action If you are interested in learning more about this program and opportunities to participate in sessions, contact Gail or Guy Sederski at 763-208-7733.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
29
Easter Worship & Events The season of Lent and Easter Palm Sunday On what is now called “Palm Sunday,” Jesus Christ rode a donkey into Jerusalem while villagers welcomed him and waved palm branches. This is mentioned in each of the Biblical Gospels and occurs a week before His subsequent resurrection. Jesus possibly rode a donkey rather than a horse as a sign of peace, as a war-waging king might ride a horse. The “Passion of the Christ” is typically read during Palm Sunday masses. Holy Thursday Holy Thursday is sometimes referred to as “Covenant Thursday,” “Maundy Thursday” or “Thursday of Mysteries.” Holy Thursday commemorates
WE MAKE
EASTER
the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with the apostles. According to Catholic News Agency, Holy Thursday might be one of the most important, complex and profound days of celebration in the Catholic Church. Holy Thursday celebrates the institution of the Eucharist as the true body and blood of Jesus Christ and the institution of the sacrament of the priesthood. Good Friday Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Jesus was condemned by his peers as King Herod and Pontius Pilate had found him not guilty of his crimes. But crowds were enraged and Pilate reluctantly ordered his crucifixion rather than face a
SWEETER
Order your Easter cakes, dessert trays and cookie platters today! Cherise Foley
763-753-9696 22001 Lake George Blvd., Anoka
Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church & Preschool 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Ignite Service 6:30 p.m., Dinner 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Lutheran Church Holy Week
Palm Sunday, April 9 • Services 8:00 & 9:30 a.m. Maundy Thursday, April 13 • Service at 7:17 p.m. Good Friday, April 14 • Service at 7:00 p.m. combined worship of area Lutheran Churches at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 1450 237th Avenue NE, East Bethel Easter Sunday, April 16 Services at 8:00, 9:30 & 10:45 a.m. Breakfast will be served 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Join us each Sunday for worship, fellowship and education. Worship Service – 8:00 & 9:30 a.m. Education/Sunday School Hour – 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Evening – 7:17 p.m. 3921 277th Avenue NW, Isanti, MN • 763-444-7146 • www.longlakeluth.org
Rain or Shine For ages 1-10
Egg Hunt
Easter Week Wednesday, Lent Worship at 5:30 p.m. Maundy Thursday, April 13 Worship at 6:30 p.m. Good Friday, April 14 Worship 12:00 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 15 Family Worship and Easter Egg Hunt & Games for the kids 9:30-11:30 a.m.
19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel West County Road 22, south on Jackson Street 763-434-6117 • www.oursaviourslc.org • oslc@oursaviourslc.org
Long Lake
Easter
Join us! Sunday Worship Schedule
Easter Sunday, April 16 Worship at 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. Communion at all Services
His body is discovered missing from the tomb and Jesus appears to his followers again showing proof that He is alive. Typically, Easter Sunday is one of the most well-attended Sunday services for Christians. It also is a day to spend with family and many families share large meals to mark the end of the Lenten season. Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial
10:00 a.m. Sharp
“Reaching Out With A Voice Of Hope”
Hope is Here!
mass riot. Holy Saturday Holy Saturday marks the final day of the Triduum or the three days preceding Easter Sunday. Scripture states that Holy Saturday was when Jesus’ body was placed in the tomb. Easter Sunday A festive and celebratory day for Christians, Easter Sunday is a time for sharing the good news of Jesus’ resurrection.
Saturday, April 8
ELCA
Spring is eagerly anticipated, as many people look forward to enjoying the great outdoors once more. Spring is also a special time of year for practicing Christians. Beginning on Ash Wednesday and lasting 40 weekdays until the arrival of Easter Sunday, the Lenten season is a very important time of year for Christians. During Lent, Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, self-denial and spiritual discipline. While the Bible does not reference Lent, the practice of observing Lent has become a standard. The following focuses on each of the special days of this church season as they pertain to Western Christianity (Eastern Orthodox churches observe Lent somewhat differently). Ash Wednesday The Day of Ashes commemorates the repentance of sin. On Ash Wednesday, Christians have ashes placed on their foreheads in the shape of a cross in recognition of their need to repent. Many churches host Ash Wednesday services and those who receive the ashes are not only reminded of their mortality and sinfulness, but also of the opportunity for absolution. Christians typically fast on Ash Wednesday, though some simply abstain from eating meat.
Kids receive a FREE Cone Coin from Dairy Queen.
St. Francis Community Park Pastor Daniel Nordin Pastor Maria Pederson Deacon Genndy Ose
Off of Hwy. 47 in St. Francis
Sponsored by the St. Francis Lioness and Lions, Oak Grove Lions, St. Francis Dairy Queen and King’s County Market.
30 April 2017 The Courier
Avoid chicks and ducklings this Easter Baby chickens and ducks make for adorable Easter scenery, as their soft feathers and diminutive size make them a natural draw for inquisitive and loving children just looking for a new pet. But those little winged cuties will grow up into adult animals, which often make them impractical Easter treats for the average family. When purchasing chicks or ducklings, many people may not realize just how quickly these animals grow. Pekin ducklings, one of the more popular species of duck available, can reach adult size between four and five weeks of age. Chicks can transform from that small puffball of yellow or white feathers into an adult-sized bird in mere months. Some chicken breeds weigh four pounds between seven and nine weeks of age. Many families find that once chicks and ducklings outgrow their initial nesting box they become impractical. They need suitable shelter as well as a space to enjoy the outdoors. Animals are
Free fun event!
often abandoned if their needs become too much to handle. The animal resource Vet Street also advises that ducks and chicks tend to be messy pets. They shed File Photo feathers constantly and can deposit waste all over. Ducks and chicks may also like to kick up bedding when nesting. The birds also may pass diseases to people through their fecal matter, which is why humans must wash their hands after contact. Many people also think that chicks and ducks are perfect for little kids. But the animals can become stressed by rough handling and peck or scratch to avoid perceived danger. Instead of live ducks and chicks this Easter, well-meaning parents or grandparents are better sticking with the chocolate varieties. Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial
Egg Hunt Saturday, April 15 • 9:00-11:30 a.m.
Event will be held indoors, rain or shine!
Hunts begin every ½ Hour
Thousands of Eggs
Ages Pre-K through 5th grade Tons of prizes, face painting, games, crafts and more.
Easter Sunday Services 9:00 & 10:30 a.m.
6443 Norris Lake Road, Nowthen Information, call 763-753-2134, go to sfbridge.org or look us up on Facebook.
A Life-Giving Church
Lenten Services
Good Friday
Soup/Supper 6:00 p.m. Worship 7:00 p.m.
Worship 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, March 29 & April 5
Maundy Thursday April 13
Communion Service 7:00 p.m.
April 14
Combined worship of area Lutheran Churches at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in East Bethel.
Easter Sunday April 16
Sunrise Service 7:00 a.m. Easter breakfast 8:00-9:00 a.m. Festival worship 9:15 a.m.
St. Andrew Lutheran Church Highway 65 and 237th Avenue NE, East Bethel – Cooper’s Corner Find out more at standreweb.org 763-434-7146
Play it safe and shop smart! Neighborhood Safety Network
One thing is for sure, kids love to play with toys! That’s part of the joy of being a child, but CPSC wants them to play it safe. Did you know that in 2015 there were an estimated 254,200 toy related injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms and 11 reports of toy related deaths? Please remind someone today to keep safety in the game plan when it comes to children and toys! Toy safety tips: Scooters and riding toys: ■ Helmets and safety gear should be worn properly at all times and they should be sized to fit. Toys with small parts: ■ Keep small balls and other toys with small parts away from children under three;
they can cause choking Magnets: ■ CPSC wants to remind you to keep loose deadly high-powered magnet sets OFF your toy shopping list. Too many kids have been rushed into surgery due to swallowing.
File Photo
Faith Listings Abundant Life Alliance Church 3840 197th Avenue NW Oak Grove • 763-753-0284 www.AbundantLife4U.org Bethel Community Church 23860 Dewey Street NW Bethel • 763-434-9834 www.bethelschurch.org Cedar United Methodist Church 17541 Jefferson Street NE Ham Lake • 763-434-7463 www.cedarumc.org Elim Baptist Church 114 Dahlin Street SE Isanti • 763-444-9221 www.elimistani.org
Celebrate Easter With Us!
| www.the-courier.org
Immanuel Church (OPC) 15036 Round Lake Boulevard NW Andover • 763-210-5846 www.immanuelchurchopc.org
Living Hope Evangelical Free Church 23038 Rum River Boulevard NW St. Francis • 763-753-1718 www.LivingHopeEFC.org
St. Francis United Methodist Church 3914 229th Avenue NW St. Francis • 763-753-2273 www.stfrancis-umc.com
Long Lake Lutheran Church 3921 277th Avenue NW Isanti • 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.org
St. Patrick Catholic Church 19921 Nightingale Street NW Oak Grove • 763-753-2011 www.st-patricks.org
New Life Church 17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW Ramsey • 763-421-0166 www.newlifemn.org
The Bridge Church 6443 Norris Lake Road Nowthen • 763-516-5995 Services 10:30 a.m.
Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel • 763-434-6117 www.oursaviourslc.org
Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Childcare 3812 229th Avenue NW St. Francis • 763-753-1234 www.trinitysf.org
St. Andrew Lutheran Church 1450 237th Avenue NE East Bethel • 763-434-7146 www.standreweb.org
West Bethel United Methodist Church 1233 221st Avenue NE Cedar • 763-434-6451
He is Risen!
He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia! Celebrate with us the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ!
Holy Week Services
Easter Sunday, April 16
Palm Sunday, April 9 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. Maundy Thursday, April 13 7:00 p.m. Good Friday, April 14 7:00 p.m.
Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m.
Trinity Lutheran Church and School 3812 229th Avenue NW • St. Francis, Minnesota 763-753-1234 • www.trinitysf.org Rev. Timothy Vaughan Rev. Keaton Christiansen
Breakfast served in our Family Center beginning at 7:00 a.m. for a free will offering
Divine Service at 8:00 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School, Senior High Youth and Adult Bible study at 9:15 a.m.
t Join usthaeran Lu Trinity u Ch rch
The Courier | www.the-courier.org April 2017
31
Pet Corner
Dr. Amy Morgan Oak Grove Animal Hospital, Owner
Question Why is it important to know about heartworm disease for my dog and/or cat? Answer Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease in pets around the world. It is caused by worms that live in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels of affected pets, causing lung disease, heart failure and damage to other organs. Heartworm disease affects dogs, cats and ferrets, but heartworms also live in other mammal species, including wolves, coyotes, foxes, sea lions and—in rare instances— humans. Because wild species such as foxes and coyotes live in proximity to many urban areas, they are considered important carriers of the disease.
File Photo
Dogs The dog is a natural host for heartworms. Heartworms that live inside the dog mature into adults, mate and produce offspring. If untreated, their numbers can increase and dogs have been known to harbor several hundred worms in their bodies. Heartworm disease causes lasting damage to the heart, lungs and arteries and can affect the dog’s health and quality of life long after the parasites are gone. For this reason, prevention is by far the best option and treatment, when needed, should be administered as early in the course of the disease as possible. The mosquito plays an essential role in the heartworm life cycle. Adult female heartworms living in an
infected dog, fox, coyote or wolf produce microscopic baby worms that circulate in the bloodstream. When a mosquito bites and takes a blood meal from an infected animal, it picks up these baby worms, which develop and mature over a period of 10 to 14 days. If the infected mosquito bites another dog, cat or susceptible wild animal, the infective larvae are deposited onto the surface of the animal’s skin and enter the new host through the mosquito’s bite wound. Once inside a new host, it takes approximately six months for the larvae to mature into adult heartworms. Once mature, heartworms can live five to seven years in dogs and up to two or three years in cats. Because of the longevity of these worms, each mosquito season can lead to an increasing number of worms in an infected pet. In the early stages of the disease, many dogs show few symptoms or no symptoms at all, but the longer the infection persists, the more likely symptoms will develop. Signs of heartworm disease may include a mild persistent cough, reluctance to exercise, fatigue after moderate activity, decreased appetite and weight loss. As heartworm disease progresses, pets may develop heart failure and the appearance of a swollen belly due to excess fluid in the abdomen. All dogs should be tested annually for heartworm infection. This can usually be done during a routine visit for preventive care. Annual testing is necessary, even when dogs are on heartworm prevention year-round, to ensure that the prevention program is working. Heartworm medications are highly effective, but dogs can still become infected. If you miss just one dose of a monthly medication, or give it late, it can leave your dog unprotected. Even if you give the medication as recommended, your dog may spit out or vomit a heartworm pill or rub off a topical medication. Heartworm preventives are highly effective, but not 100 percent. If you don’t get your dog tested, you won’t know if your dog needs treatment.
Cats Heartworm disease in cats is very different from heartworm disease in dogs. Most worms in cats do not survive to the adult stage. Cats with adult heartworms typically have just one to three worms and many cats affected by heartworms have no adult worms. While this means heartworm disease often goes undiagnosed in cats, it’s important to understand that even immature worms can cause damage. Signs of heartworm disease in cats can be very subtle or very dramatic. Symptoms may include coughing, asthma-like attacks, periodic vomiting, lack of appetite or weight loss. Occasionally an affected cat may have difficulty walking, fainting or seizures or suffer from fluid accumulation in
the abdomen. Unfortunately, the first sign in some cases is sudden collapse of the cat or sudden death. If you travel with your pet to an area where heartworms are more common, your pet is at risk. Also, stray and neglected dogs and certain wildlife such as coyotes, wolves and foxes can be carriers of heartworms, which means the actual risk where you live is unknown. Mosquitoes blown great distances by the wind and the relocation of infected pets to previously uninfected areas also contribute to the spread of heartworm disease (this happened following Hurricane Katrina when 250,000 pets, many of them infected with heartworms, were adopted and shipped around the country). The fact is that heartworm
disease has been diagnosed in all 50 states and risk factors are impossible to predict. Multiple variables, from climate variations to the presence of wildlife carriers, cause rates of infections to vary dramatically from year to year—even within communities. And because infected mosquitoes can come inside, both outdoor and indoor pets are at risk. For that reason, the American Heartworm Society recommends you “think 12:” get your pet tested every 12 months for heartworm and give your pet heartworm preventative 12 months a year. Heartworm disease is easy to prevent and is found all over the country. Your veterinarian can discuss with you options for prevention.
Home Bake Pizzas
GlutenFree Crust Available!
We deliver
premium pizza
straight to you!
1 Off
$ 50
Any Regular Size Pasta Dinner 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 5/31/17
Always Available
Hwy 47 & Pederson Drive, St. Francis, MN
763-753-4577
Place your order online at
www.mansettis.com Sun 11:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m. • Mon-Th 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Fri 11:00 a.m.-10-30 p.m. • Sat 11:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
4 Off
$ 00
Any X-Large Pizza 2 or more toppings
St. Francis Mansetti’s Only
Not valid with any other specials or coupons. 763-753-4577 • Expires 5/31/17
Pepperoni or Sausage or Cheese
2 $1200 F O R
Pick some up today!
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 5/31/17
Ticks are back! Protect your dogs and cats with tick preventative available now.
Stop by or call for more information. Also Ask about dog and cat grooming
19035 Lake George Blvd. NW Oak Grove, MN 55303 763-753-6336 www.oakgrovevet.net
Amy Morgan, D.V.M. Lisa Johnson, D.V.M. Kaija Youngner, D.V.M. Dawn Price, D.V.M. Katie Neshek, D.V.M.
32 April 2017 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Finn receives MASE new special education leader award Mia Urick
MASE Director of Professional Learning
The Minnesota Administrators for Special Education (MASE) has named Tim Finn, director of Special Services at Independent School District 15 (ISD 15), as the recipient of the 2017 New Special Education Leader Award. Finn has received this award for his commitment to
students with disabilities and their families and his active involvement in professional and community affairs. He was honored with the New Special Education Leader Award at a statewide recognition ceremony during the MASA/MASE Spring Conference, March 9-10, at the Minneapolis Marriott Northwest in Brooklyn Park. “Tim continuously demonstrates a commitment
St. Francis High School Theatre Presents… Book by Joe DiPietro A Musical inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley.
to providing exemplary programming for all students within ISD 15, collaborating with parents and staff and mentoring new leaders within the district,” said AnnaRae Klopfer, ISD 15 Special Services program supervisor, in her letter of support. “Tim takes the time to listen to all points of view, considers all options and bases his decisions on what is going to best meet the needs of everyone involved, particularly the student.” Finn has been with ISD 15 as the director of Special Services since 2013. He has been instrumental in increasing the programming options for all students. Finn helped establish Saints Online for the fall of 2015, an online school for students in grades 3-12, as well as Saints Academy for the fall 2016, an alternative learning program for students in grades 6-12. He was also the driving force behind researching and becoming a member of
Intermediate 916 to better meeting the needs of ISD 15’s most challenging students with disabilities. Finn has co-chaired the school district’s Strategic Plan Implementation Team, identified a need and developed a new center-based special education program at East Bethel Community School and worked closely with the director of curriculum and instruction to more effectively implement the RTI program. He has also supervised the Indian Education Program, implemented changes to the district’s 504 development and delivery and repurposed Crossroads School & Vocational Center by bringing back the 18-21 Transition 15 (T-15) program. “Tim is the glue that binds our district level cabinet and administrators together—each of us goes to Tim when we need a fresh and honest perspective. He truly is an out-of- the-box
April 27, 28, 29 • 7:00 p.m. April 30 • 2:00 p.m. St. Francis High School Performing Arts Center 3325 Bridge Street NW, St. Francis, MN
$8 Adults, $6 Senior Citizens/Students/Children
Visit www.seatyourself.biz/stfrancishs to order tickets or for more information, call 763-213-1527. Produced by arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide, 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, NY 10036
Expires 4/30/17
Expires 4/30/17
Valid on cash transactions only, must pay inside St. Francis County Market. Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit.
X1001
Express Gasolines Per Gallon All Grades of Gas
The Courier Photo
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Express Gasolines Per Gallon All Grades of Gas
Tim Finn, director of ISD 15 Special Services (left) collaborates with AnnaRae Klopfer, Special Services program supervisor. Finn recently received the Minnesota Administrators for Special Education (MASE) New Special Education Leader award. MASE is a professional association organized to promote programs and services to improve the education of children with disabilities.
Valid on cash transactions only, must pay inside St. Francis County Market. Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit.
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.
So many reasons to shop at County Market Express… Check out our Grab ’N Go case filled with breakfast sandwiches, deli sandwiches, wraps, fruit, vegetables, sushi, yogurt parfaits, salads and more!
thinker who provides new perspectives on an ongoing basis,” said Troy Ferguson, ISD 15 superintendent, in his letter of support. “Tim’s tireless work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement has significantly helped our district move forward in its mission to ‘equip all students with the knowledge and skills to empower them to achieve their dreams and full potential while becoming responsible citizens in a dynamic world.’” For the first 15 years of his professional career, Finn worked for a non-profit social services agency that provided day programing and employment services to adults with disabilities. He joined ISD 15 in 2001 and has held the roles of Transition teacher/due process facilitator and program supervisor of Early Childhood Special Education. He has also been an active MASE member serving on the Strategic Planning Committee. Finn received a postmaster’s graduate certificate in educational administration and leadership from St. Cloud State University. He earned a master’s degree in special education and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of St. Thomas. MASE is a professional association organized to promote programs and services to improve the education of children with disabilities, to foster high quality programs of professional development and to study problems relating to serving children with disabilities and improving the leadership of administrators for special education.