The Courier – July 2016 by St. Francis Area Schools

The Courier July 2016 | Volume 23, Issue 10

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a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education | St. Francis, Minnesota Serving the communities of Andover, Athens Township, Bethel, East Bethel, Linwood Township, Nowthen, Oak Grove, St. Francis and Stanford Township

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

St. Francis Middle School holds inaugural Bingo Bash Dr. Bobbi Anderson Hume SFMS Principal

St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) students and staff celebrated the end of the school year with a schoolwide carnival. Students and staff worked hard this past year to establish the kind of school they want SFMS to be. SFMS has a plan for world domination: together, students and staff want to take over the world by being the best middle school. There are short and long-term goals that make up a five-year plan. The 2014-15 school year was the first year of the plan and the focus was on relationships. At SFMS, everyone believes relationships are the foundation for everything. Each student can walk into school and know that there is an adult who cares about them. The goal for the first year and beyond was that every student feels like they belong, has value and is an important part of their school. This year, in addition to relationship building, the focus was on creating opportunity. SFMS went from having one after school Targeted Services program for each grade in math and reading to 21 high-interest programs that not only build upon math and reading skills but also allowed students to bond with their peers and have fun. Middle school sports and other activities have also returned after being cut more than a decade ago. Students could participate in school activities, such as jazz band, strength and conditioning, Knowledge Bowl, wrestling and track. The goal is for all SFMS students to participate in an after school activity of his or her choosing. This year nearly two-thirds of students participated in an after school activity. Year two was also about clearly defining who the students of SFMS are and what they expect of each other, including understandings of behavior. One proven method of creating clear expectations for students is through a model called Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies, which focuses on clear communication of expectations and the acknowledgment of positive behavior. Last fall, each student was given a Bingo board that they were required to attach to their planner and keep throughout the year. Squares on the board contained goals such as, “I will be on time to my classes,” I will earn C’s or better on my report card,” and, “I will earn zero behavior referrals.” At the end of each month, those who met the behavior goal were awarded with a Bingo stamp and a prize.

St. Francis Middle School celebrated the last day of school on June 1 with a Bingo Bash. Students earned points for good behavior throughout the school year and then used the points to have fun. They had a dunk tank, bungee trampoline, food, photo booth and much more. The weather was a little chilly but a good time was had by all. Submitted Photo On the last day of school, students were awarded with a school celebration. All students who participated in Bingo were able to attend, and students with a Bingo or a blackout on their card received additional rewards. It is important to understand that the incentive was a schoolwide initiative. It was not about individual credits or class rank. This was an opportunity for everyone at SFMS to agree to expectations and to reward students who do the right things every day. Additionally, it provided an avenue to move students who struggle with school expectations into a place of success by using clear communication, recognition and peer modeling. Students were excited each month to check the list of eligible students and were very excited about the rewards. For those who typically have success in school, the monthly goals were not difficult to attain, yet they commented about the importance of being regularly recognized for their achievements. Students who sometimes struggle in school had clear expectations and support to meet the monthly goal so they could experience success at school. Even if a student did not achieve the

monthly goal, the expectation was clear for them as being important to their success, as well as the success of SFMS. The Bingo program also fits in with ISD 15’s mission statement, “Our mission is 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.” By creating monthly behavior goals for students, they are gaining the necessary skills in order to achieve individual goals and the collective goals of SFMS. Staff also supported every SFMS student, allowing them to feel empowered in meeting the Bingo goal each month. For SFMS students, year two meant greater opportunities, a deeper connection to their school and time to celebrate relationships. In the end, 91 percent of students earned a Bingo, meaning they met several monthly goals and 75 percent earned a blackout for meeting each monthly goal. Funding for the Bingo initiative came from the St. Francis Middle School Site Management Council, which is funded almost entirely from revenue gained at school activity nights. St. Francis Middle School wishes

to thank the community and several businesses for supporting the yearlong Bingo initiative, specifically, Acapulco in Blaine, St. Francis Dairy Queen, Hong Kong Delight, Patriot Lanes Bar & Grill, St. Francis Dominos, St. Francis Casey’s General Store, Something Sweet by Maddie Lu in Coon Rapids, St. Francis McDonald’s, St. Francis Subway and Muller Family Theatres. All went above and beyond to support SFMS students. Additionally, recognition should be given to intervention specialist Coral-Lyn Wyman and administrative assistant Annie Mickelburg for the long hours they put in to create an amazing endof-year experience.

What’s Inside Schools in Action.................................................. 2 Class of 2016............................................................ 9 Community Education....................................13 Community & Business...................................15 School Board Highlights................................25 Sports & Outdoors.............................................27 Meetings, Events & Benefits.........................31 Life...............................................................................32

Schools in Action

Community Education School Board Highlights

PAGE 13 PAGE 25

Superintendent’s Bulletin

Troy Ferguson ISD 15 Superintendent

Summer is already moving full speed ahead. I hope everyone is enjoying time spent with family and friends. This month, I’d like to focus on the 2015-16 school year and reflect on the mission at Independent School District 15 (ISD 15). Our mission is 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. When discussing the mission and citing examples of why we do what we do at ISD 15, I can think of no greater example than graduation. Many attended the St. Francis High School graduation ceremony June 3. What an event! Three hundred and forty-three students walked across the stage to receive

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their diplomas and another twenty earned diplomas from Saints Online and the Oakland Cooperative Learning Center. Not only were their families, friends and teachers proud of their accomplishments, community members also demonstrated their pride and support through donations toward scholarships. The community clearly recognized that these graduates have been actively engaged and responsible citizens. They acknowledged that in a big way by providing these generous scholarships to help students achieve their dreams. One very special moment was a standing ovation for approximately 20 graduates who will serve in the military. This is yet another instance of ISD 15 students becoming responsible citizens in a dynamic world. Another example is the

St. Francis High School graduation rate. Statistics from the Minnesota Department of Education show that statewide from 2011 through 2015, the average high school graduation rate was 79.6 percent. During the same fiveyear period at St. Francis High School, students achieved a 93.2 percent graduation rate with the 2014-15 school year hovering around 95 percent. Statistics from the 2015-16 school year have not yet been reported, but we are anticipating the upward trend to continue. ISD 15 students finish what they start through their desire to achieve and with unyielding support from teachers, staff, families and community members, they are

able to do so. On behalf of Independent School District 15 staff and community members, I’d like to congratulate the class of 2016 on achieving this important milestone. The commitment to the mission and all future graduating classes continues this summer as teachers, administrators and staff members engage in training and planning for the upcoming school year. Rest assured that ISD 15 staff is excited to continue delivering the outstanding instruction and services to which we’ve grown accustomed. I wish everyone a happy and safe summer, and I can’t wait to see you all again in the fall.

2016 ISD 15 School Board Election Information Four out of seven seats are open for the 2016 election. There will be no primary. Candidate filing for the ISD 15 School Board is August 2-16 at the Central Services Center. The deadline to file is August 16 at 5:00 p.m. The general election will be November 8.

St. Francis High School (SFHS) students Hannah Beckman, Lina Schmidt, Clayton Baker and Isaiah Brunette performed a short comedy play to Jessica Rowles’ seventh-grade language arts class at St. Francis Middle School. Students also partook in improvisation games and activities led by the performers. The play was directed by SFHS student Henry Blas and written by Katrina Miller and Gunner Dupont from Glenn Morehouse-Olson’s SFHS drama elective class. Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

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The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

New start times for 2016-17 school year Heidi Anderson

Staff Writer

The annual retiree recognition celebration was held May 23 to recognize those who retired from Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) in 2015-16. The sixteen retirees worked a combined 393 years at ISD 15. Nine attended the event and were presented with an award from their supervisor. Pictured are (L-R): Patti Jo Berger, Paula Jesberg, Catherine Perkins, Sandra Olson, Brenda Hoffman, Catherine Greskovics, Priscilla Anderson, Kim Kelso and Janice Audette. The Courier Photo St. Francis Middle School’s eighth-grade geometry class, taught by Carol Saba, completed a unit on surface area and volume. Students finished the unit with a final STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) project by constructing both 2-D and 3-D triangles in order to create the strongest structure, while addressing exponential functions and fractal math. They also used probability to guess how long the structure would remain standing. "I think these students really rose to the occasion,” Saba said.

At the January 25 Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) School Board meeting, the board unanimously approved the school calendar for the 2016-17 school year. The schedule includes an adjustment in some start and end times for ISD 15 schools. Times when school is in session are: } Cedar Creek Community School, 9:20 a.m.-3:40 p.m. } Crossroads School & Vocational Center, 7:55 a.m.-2:15 p.m. } Early Childhood Family Education, 9:15-11:45 a.m.; 12:45-3:15 p.m. } East Bethel Community School; 9:20 a.m.-3:40 p.m. } Saints Academy: 7:45 a.m.-2:20 p.m. } St. Francis Elementary School - North, 9:15 a.m.-3:35 p.m. } St. Francis Elementary School: 9:20 a.m.-3:40 p.m. } St. Francis High School: 7:45 a.m.-2:25 p.m. } St. Francis Middle School: 7:45 a.m.-2:12 p.m. } Transition 15: 7:40 a.m.-1:40 p.m. There will also be a 90-minute late start for all ISD 15 schools on the third instructional Wednesday of every month. These dates include: September 21, October 19, November 16, December 21, January 18, February 15, March 22, April 19 and May 17. A one-page calendar for the 2016-17 school year is available at www.isd15.org under Forms & Publications.

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COMEDIAN ANDY ERIKSON Takes the Stage at 6:00 pm Second Place Winner on Season 9 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing In 2010 she took first place in the Funniest Person with a Day Job contest and the Duluth’s funniest person competition. In 2013 Andy was a finalist in the Great America Comedy Festival and in 2014 she performed in the prestigious Bridgetown Comedy Festival. Her favorite thing about comedy is making friends.

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Crossroads School & Vocational Center holds classic car show Cindy Thurston

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Lori Schulte and Dick Henz, organizer of the St. Francis Friday Nite Rally, organized this event. Anyone can enjoy seeing these cars every Friday night from now until September at the St. Francis City Centre parking lot west of Highway 47.

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“I wanted to spend more time doing two things that I love— reading and knitting. I also thought that knitting would be a great way for students to show their artistic side as we create a non-threatening atmosphere where students feel comfortable and can discuss with a group what we have been reading in our novels.” All SFMS students were welcome. If a student wanted to grow as a reader while learning a creative skill, this was the group for them. The group also welcomed and encouraged those who already knew how to knit to bring their expertise. Group members read the novel, A Handful of Stars, by Newbery Honor Author, Cynthia Lord. They also worked on the knit stitch practicing for a scarf pattern.

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St. Francis Middle School sixthgraders Emma Fennell, Ellianna Kastner and Dakota Roering enjoy knitting and discussing books at the new Targeted Services program Knitting and Knovels. Submitted Photo

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choice. When we finish a good book, the first thing we want to do is share what we liked, what touched our hearts, what made us laugh or cry, what made us angry or even what we didn’t like so much with others. “To be honest, the idea for the group began as pure selfishness,” said SFMS sixthgrade teacher Patty Peterson.

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Knitting and Knovels was a new Targeted Services program at St. Francis Middle School (SFMS). The program allowed students to embrace their creative side as they learn how to knit and develop a love of reading as the group discusses novels of their

CSVC math teacher

A classic car show was held at Crossroads School & Vocational Center May 18. Students and staff would like to extend their gratitude to everyone who came by with their classic cars for all to enjoy. Following are the owners and types of cars they brought: Gary S-1951 Chevy pick up, Maria E-1978 Mustang Cobra, Steve T-1966 Pontiac Grand Prix, Dick H-1931 Plymouth 4-door sedan, Bonnie M-1967½ Pontiac Ventura, Dave W-1966 Plymouth Super Bee, Roy G-1966 Dodge Coronet, Nick B-1964 Chevy C-10 Pickup, Randy H-1969 Chevy C-10, Ron H-1956 Ford Fairlane, Arlo-1962 Ford Galaxie 500, Tony-1932 Ford Roadster

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St. Francis Middle School talent spotlight

CCCS students volunteer at Second Harvest Heartland Mary Kay Tonsager and Pamela Edblad

Jessica Rowles

CCCS teachers

SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Thanks to the Cedar Creek Community School Parent Teacher Organization, Mary Kay Tonsager and Pamela Edblad’s classes used their box top earnings to spend April 29 at Second Harvest Heartland. During this rewarding opportunity, students worked hard on packing rice to help end hunger throughout the community. Thank you to student Mackenzie Nelmark and her mother, Dawn Nelmark, for making this experience so successful. Fifty-four fifth-graders and volunteers were able to pack 1,730 pounds of rice in less than two hours. This field trip also tied into an engineering unit, as it showed the advantages of using assembly lines to make a process work efficiently.

Submitted Photo

St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) and the student council held its annual talent show on May 13 in the school gymnasium. Students who had tried out for a spot performed dances and songs and played instruments to a supportive crowd. Since the student body shattered its goal of collecting $300 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, staff did a surprise dance-off at the end of the show. The Rum River Leos organized both the dance battle choreography and Make-A-Wish Foundation fundraiser. The new SFMS Saints mascot also made a first appearance. The mascot uniform was purchased as a result of this year’s seventh-grade civic action plan to increase school spirit and the SFMS Student Council. Students who participated in the talent show are listed below: } Uptown Kids, instrumental, Uptown Funk } Abrielle Mann, instrumental } Madison Seydel, dance, Glory } Jazz Band, instrumental, Crazy Train } Ellianna Kastner, Rachel Saice, Dakota Roering, singing, Lost Boy } Paige Dubbin, Autumn Hill, dance, Feet Don’t Fail Me Now } Sabrina Davis, singing, The A-Team } Anna Deroy, instrumental, A Thousand Years } Jack Churney, singing, Seven Years } Jazz Band, instrumental, Sky Fall } Maika Vue, singing, Pretty Hurts } Nicholas Coop, instrumental, Ruins of Tulum } SFMS Ribbon Dancers, dance, Seven Years } Tess Humphrey, singing, The Way I Am } Rum River Leos, dance, Lip Gloss is St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) student Poppin, Lean and Dab and Gangnam Abrielle Mann plays the piano during the annual SFMS talent show. Submitted Photo Style

Families have fun at Book Walk Chris Carrigan

EBCS reading intervention teacher

Families had a wonderful time at the East Bethel Community School (EBCS) Book Walk sponsored by the Community Involvement Group on May 12. Students and their families got great exercise and had a lot of fun winning books. East Bethel Community School

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teachers and St. Francis High School National Honor Society students Taylor Karasch and Megan Beeler volunteered their time to ensure the event was successful. The EBCS Parent Teacher Organization provided the necessary funds to purchase books given to the lucky winners. Thank you to all who joined us for this wonderful evening.

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Third-graders present animal research projects Anne Carter

CCCS third-grade teacher

Third-graders at Cedar Creek Community School were able to show off their animal research projects May 18 and 19. This project incorporated a variety of standards that students covered in thirdgrade. Some of these standards included: life science relating to animals, technology, language arts, including reading nonfiction text, writing, grammar, speaking and cursive writing. Students

spent more than a month on this project. Once they chose an animal, they read various texts and visited websites to learn more. Students took notes, organized their findings and eventually wrote a five to seven paragraph report about their animal. Most students were even able to write their report in cursive. They presented their research on a display board to their class and later to the community during their animal museum. We are very proud of the hard work students put into this project.

David Berger

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Submitted Photo

Courier Contacts

(Left) Genuine Matthews and John Green engage in a game of Jenga in the St. Francis High School Media Center during academic time.

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Victory Garden grand opening

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Students recharge their brains through games Steven Fetzik

SFHS Community Relations Coordinator

We’ve all experienced the midday blues. At St. Francis High School, an emerging number of students recharged themselves by playing games in the high school’s Media Center. During academic time, eight to ten students would be playing a variety of games, including chess, checkers, Jenga, Connect Four and more. Senior John Green is one example. Instead of checking his phone, he regularly was involved in a lively game of chess. “I didn’t know how to play chess until I came here,” Green noted. Senior Sade Sunderland agrees. “Playing games trains my brain and allows me to spend time with friends.” Activities also revived the student’s focus either before or after lunch. “It’s great to see so many students engaging themselves in strategy games,” said Chris Ramacher, the Media Center’s educational assistant. “They might not see it, but they certainly leave with a lot more energy than when they came into the room.”

A grand opening event was held May 25 for the Victory Garden at Crossroads School & Vocational Center (CSVC). Heavy rain began right as the event started, but let up just enough for a grand tour of the garden. The event was held in conjunction with the official Schoolyard Gardens Planting Week in the state of Minnesota. The event included a short lesson taught by Anoka County Master Gardeners and students leading a tour of the garden. Jay Powell, CSVC principal, uncovered a beautiful ceramic tile sign created and designed by CSVC art teacher Bud Bullivant and students at the entrance to the garden. Powell thanked the many supporters who attended, including Dar Fosse, director of the Jeffers Foundation, Lynne Hagen, Anoka County Master Gardeners Program Coordinator, Tim Arlt, University of Minnesota Extension Program Leader, Superintendent Troy Ferguson, Director of Special Education, Tim Finn and Marie Welch former CSVC principal. Also in attendance were Shelby Kilibarda , Monarch Lab, University of Minnesota and Anna Kaelin, U.S. Green Building Council, all in strong support of an outdoor education experience. Showcased by students during the tour was a controlled scientific experiment being conducted outdoors in the garden. The data collected in science class was shared with the math department, which graphed and displayed the data within the school. The Victory Garden is an outdoor learning, living laboratory. It is a dynamic example of learning many different methods of growing fruits, vegetables and pollinator-friendly plants. This past spring, students experienced growing vegetables hydroponically, in a hoop house, in the greenhouse, in straw bales and in the soil. Kaelin has toured many schoolyard gardens in the upper Midwest and said the one at CSVC is amazing!

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis Elementary School holds end of year party Becky Aish

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 is required; if applicant does not have Class B license, the Transportation Department will provide PAID training. A six-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.

SFES APT

St. Francis Elementary School students had a cool end to the school year. On May 19, over 700 students, teachers, parents and staff members made the first end of year party a spectacular event. Everyone enjoyed eating delicious ice cream, dancing to music, playing at the playground and soaking in the wonderful summer weather. Students also purchased around 800 balls to dunk Principal Ryan Johnson and Dean of Students Scott Kruger in a dunk tank. Money raised from the tank will go toward funding other school and community events sponsored by the St. Francis Elementary Association of Parents and Teachers.

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St. Francis Elementary School first-grade student Wyatt aimed for the dunk tank target at the end of year party. Becky Aish, SFES APT

Jim Klicka retires after 32 years Jessica Rowles

SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Jim Klicka, science teacher at St. Francis Middle School (SFMS), retired after 32 years as a teacher with Independent School District 15. Klicka taught ninth-grade physical science for 28 years, along with some tenth-grade biology classes at St. Francis High School. In more recent years he taught sixth-grade physical science classes, some seventhgrade life science classes and only eighth-grade earth science classes for the past two years. “I can’t say I have a favorite memory, but I will always cherish the connections that I have made with students,” Klicka said. “It’s rewarding to know that you have made a difference in another

person’s life and could impact other people in the future as well. Teachers do make a difference—good or bad. I will miss most the daily interactions that I have had with students. I think it will be the hardest not having a daily forum where laughter and learning can intersect. I believe teaching has taught me patience, especially the last four years at the middle school. Students behave the way they do for a reason. I will miss the friends that I have made at both buildings where I have worked.” Klicka plans on relocating his home base to the Santa Fe area in New Mexico. In retirement, he wants to travel and photograph the world. St. Francis Middle School staff wishes Klicka the best as

On May 12, staff and students of Crossroads School & Vocational Center (CSVC) held their end-of-year Awards Night where students were given awards based on their accomplishments. Students enjoyed a treat and slide show highlighting their time at CSVC. The Courier Photo The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Loren Bullivant, art teacher at Crossroads School & Vocational Center, spent a unit studying JSC Boggs. Boggs is an artist who is best known for his hand drawn “Boggs Bills.” He creates his own form of currency through art and trades them for goods. His work is showcased in some of the top art museums. He says the act of the exchange is also part of the art. It isn’t considered counterfeit because he doesn’t try to pass it off as money; he explains it is art. Bullivant visited the Subway in St. Francis to use some of his students’ art in exchange for some cookies. The project was a success and he walked out with 30 cookies. Mollie Ziebart, The Courier

Cedar Creek Community School students in Kelly Ogren’s first-grade class spent the day at Oliver Kelley Farm in Elk River learning about farm life in the 1860s. Students participated in chores, gardening, taking care of animals and playing the same games that children did over a century ago. Kelly Ogren, CCCS First Grade teacher Jim Klicka

Submitted Photo

he moves into this new phase. He will be missed at SFMS tremendously; it is hard for us to see him go.

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Anderson Berry Farm is open Monday through Saturday 8:00 a.m. until picked out Anderson Berry Farm is located 5 miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47 then ½ mile west on 277th Avenue NW

For updates, call 763-444-4231 or visit www.andersonberryfarm.com 7

Cedar Creek Community School (CCCS) first-grader Gavyn Erickson, from Christine Tauer’s class, had the most raffle tickets sales for the CCCS Spring Carnival. He sold over 120 tickets. The CCCS Parent Teacher Organization will use the money from all ticket sales and money raised at the carnival fund field trips and to support teachers with supplies and resources they need to educate students at CCCS.

Sandra Benson, CCCS Community Relations coordinator

Fourth-graders tour water plant Avery Stancer and Ava Hoff

EBCS fourth-grade students

Nancy Zak’s fourthgrade class at East Bethel Community School (EBCS) visited the St. Francis Water Treatment Plant May 11. All three fourth-grade classes from EBCS went on separate days. It was a blast. EBCS fourth-grade classes designed and created water filtration systems as a part of their STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities. Students learned a lot from water plant employee Parish Barten. He helped East Bethel Community School fourth-grade students toured the students learn how water plant St. Francis Water Treatment Plant and asked many questions about employees clean water for the the city’s water. They learned what materials the city uses to filter city. Students toured all three their water and then used that knowledge to design their own water floors of the facility and also filter. Nancy Zak, EBCS fourth-grade teacher went on a sidewalk that was over 20 feet of water. There are a lot of pipes that are color-coded. At the end of the tour, students went back to the lobby and asked questions. It was a good experience. Student Performance Improvement Initiatives Coordinator Linda Ericson visited Cedar Creek Community School kindergarten classrooms to play her violin. Ericson talked to the children about parts of the violin, high and low notes and loud and soft notes. During her presentation she played a song and had students guess which one it was. It was Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star and some students even knew that Baa, Baa, Black Sheep has the same tune. During the performance she had students sing a long while she played the Sandra Benson, violin. CCCS Community Relations coordinator

Katie Windsperger’s St. Francis Middle School seventh-grade math classes created carnival games as a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) project for sixth-grade students May 18. Students followed up on their project with a report of their findings in Jessica Rowles’ language arts class. Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Drivers

Education

at St. Francis High School

The St. Francis Middle School Science Club, run by sixth-grade science teacher Julie Stitt, held a plant sale for students before school May 4-6. The sale was held right before Mother’s Day, so customers could purchase a plant for their mothers. Students grew the plants and painted the pots. Pictured (L-R) are students Abby Babcock, Joey Dropps, Kaitlyn Thompson and Isabella Drotberg. Jessica Rowles, SFMS Community Relations Coordinator

Classroom Education

Registration for classroom drivers education is being accepted for the 2016-17 school year. If you are 15 years of age or approaching 15, you may register to participate in a 30-hour classroom drivers education course offered during the school day. Fee $110. Opportunities will be released in August.

Behind-the-Wheel Driving Instruction Six hours of required behind-the-wheel instruction Flexible scheduling State of Minnesota certified instructors Fee $260

Applications available at www.communityed15.com or call 763-213-1640 for more information. Sponsored by ISD 15 Community Education 8

Minnesota Speaker of the House Kurt Daudt took time out of his busy schedule and met with Brent Swaggert’s civics class at St. Francis High School May 27. Daudt’s presentation included information about his role as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. He answered many questions about the legislature, politics and other important topics. Brent Swaggert, SFHS Social Studies Teacher The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis High School

Class of 2016

Congratulations to the Class of 2016 and good luck in all of your future endeavors. May your hard work and education take you far. Visit ISD 15’s YouTube channel, youtube.com/user/ISD15StFrancis, for the video of the graduation ceremony. * Honors with Distinction + Honors ^ National Honor Society ~ International Exchange Student Mason Eric Abraham Benjamin Daniel Ackerman Payton Lee Adams Cassidy Lynn Adamson +^ Sarah Joanne Albachten + Ryan Leonard Allord Kylie Shaye Amundson +^ Dylan Dean Anderson Evan Joseph Anderson + Lindsey Marie Anderson *^ Stephen John Anderson +^ Stephen Joseph Anderson + Sydney Rose Anderson Jay Allen Archerd Rayan Arnachellem Michelle Leighla-Marie Arnold *^ Brady Daniel Arzdorf Jorden Nicole Atkins Jasper John Axelson Abigayle Rose Bachelor Clayton Jonah Baker Dominic Jordan Bartell-Hill Brittany Bonnie Bauermeister *^ Lillian Rose Baumann Anna Beth Beaudet Hannah Elisabeth Louise Beckman Austin Daniel Belford Gabrielle Marie Bell David Thomas Bennett Kailin Maureen Berg +^ Brian Taylor Bergstrom *^ Jonathan Loren Berkness George Fitzgerald Bertels Carson Harlow Bettcher Jose Uriel Blanco *^ Bo James Blanske Mason Nicholas Blees + Joseph Robert Blom *^ Shawn William Blucher Alan Robert Blue Brooke Marie Boyum Michael Vernon Brand *^ Caroline Anne Brasch *^ Andrea Lynn Brenny +^ Brandon Michael Brummer Isaiah Gerry Brunette Anna Jean Burdorf Kyle Marcus Burth Gabriella Leigh Calametti * Preston Chase Carlson Tanner James Carlson +^ Maria Dolores Castanon +^ Katherine Anne Cederberg Caitlin Leslie Christensen Michael Todd Christensen + Tracie Michelle Clyne Tristan Dylan Coburn

Brittany Shea Coop *^ Sarah Isabelle Cullen *^ Breanna Kay Czyson Emily Samantha Dalzell Emily Sariah Daniels Jamen Thomas Darling Cassidy Erin Day Kailey Marie Decheine Mikhail Allen Dejarlais Alexie Ann Demarais Connor Blake Denny Rachel Ann Detlefsen Benjamin Jack Diers Brooke Ellen Dippon +^ Jade Marie Disanto Afton Marie Douville *^ Madeline Armella Dreshar +^ Gunner Alexander Dupont Sarah Ellen Durkot +^ Autumn Ray Durm Devin Anthoeny EdgettGrafsky Tristyn Jerin Edstrom Donald Edward Ehmke Jacob Ryan Eide Rebekah Lyn Eik Tanner Joseph Engberg Brooke Kay Engen Reisch Michael Fahland Sarah Marie Fern Celeste Fine + Jacob William Flor Sarah Marie Fogelman + Andrea Jo Frank *^ Lucas Jon Fuller Mara Furrer ~ Baylie Shea Alanna Galbreth Quinn Michael Gard Hayden Rae Gassett Christopher Lee Gerlach + Nikolas Brandon Gibson + Ana Maria Gilbert Dalton Brett Gilbertson Malik Odessa Gillette Gavin Gene Gimpl Katherine Frances Gott Jacob Thomas Graham Megan Joy Grandstrand John Grace Green Maxwell Allen Greene Austin Richard Griep Isaac Alden Grothe James Lewis Gunderson Nicholas Moe Gunstrom

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Independent School District 15 Superintendent Troy Ferguson addresses the St. Francis High School graduating class at commencement on June 3. The mission of Independent School District 15 is 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. Photo by Kyle Johnson Nicholas Steven Gust Morgan Marie Hager Cullen Andrew Hahn +^ Rebecca Lynn Halberg Rebekah Ann Hall Kaitlyn Nicole Hamilton + Abigail Marie Hanson Daniel David Hanson Duncan Oliver Hanson Noah Krist Hanson Jack Francis Happe Katelyn Nguyen Harrington Morgan Ann Harris Payton Michael Hearn + David Jerome Heath Brittney Robyn Hemsworth + Mikayla Jean Hendrickson Kyler Bray Hennen +^ Kelsi Mae Herold Lexy Ann Hess-Vandecar Lindsey Marie Hiebert * Ryan Matthew Hill Haley Ann Hoefer *^ Travis Eugene Hoeschen +^ Adam Lee Hoff Alison Leah Hoffman Max Leland Hoffman Summer Marie Hoffman Gabrielle Elizabeth Hoglund Seth Erik Holland + Danielle Lynn Hoppe +^ Amy Luana Houle *^ Alexander James Huberty Alee Michelle HueffmeierKunshier *

Sydney Ellen Huffman Chance Michael Hujanen Benjamin Edward Hylen +^ Brooke Leah Imm +^ Kyla Lynn Ingberg Steven Michael Jarvimaki Ariyanna Arleen Jerde-Erickson Amelia Grace Johnson *^ Bradley Nicholas Johnson Connor Clark Johnson + Elizabeth Ann Johnson Jadie Ann Johnson +^ Jaycie Melinda Johnson Katrina Ann Johnson +^ Evan Alexander Jones Tyler Lee Kaiser Beau David Scott Kaske Connor David Keech +^ Kyle William Keehr *^ Riley Jean Kelly + Katlyn Jean Kenney Austin James Kessler Amanda Lee Kishish Anna Marie Kissel Christopher James Klebs Michelle Anna Kling Kennedy Payge Kobus Makilyn Amanda Koep *^ Keith Kipkemboi Kogo Sophia Elyse Kortemeier +^ Justin Bryan Kost Kendra Renee Krebsbach *^ Sara Laraine Kurvers Karley Kay Landwehr McKenzy Vilma Josefina Lane

At this exciting time, we’d like to offer our congratulations to all of this year’s hardworking graduates.

Congratulations to the Class of 2016!

McDonald’s www.MyLocalMcDs.com/St-Francis

23100 St. Francis Boulevard NW St. Francis 763-753-4713

Kallie Kay Larson Shelby Anne Larson +^ Jeremy John Lashinski +^ Dylan Michael Lauseng Evangelena PaZong Lee Samantha Veronica Leiberg Sarah Jo Lemke + Nikola Mary Lichtscheidl Eva Mae Lindberg Caytlin Ashley Lindeland Alexander Peter Loahr Trent Aaron Lobeck Tessa Rae Loe Brian Alan Lonergan Skyler Mitchell Long Maly Lor + Pheng Lor +^ Aarilee Cynthia Lorenzen +^ Aaron John Lorenzen Kianna Marie Luggar Michael Craig Madsen Continued, Page 10

I work with every customer to create a unique and delicious baked item for any celebration. Cherise Foley • 763-753-9696 22001 Lake George Blvd., Anoka

St. Francis High School From Page 9

Graduates Nathan Daniel Magdik Emily Ann Mckenzie Mason Ernest Meadows Hailey Alexzandria Meeks Sydney Rose Meyers +^ Alec Stuart Meyersburg + Joshua Alexander Midkiff Donovan Robert Miles + Bobbijean Rose Miller +^ Katrina Kay Miller Willow Rae Miller Logan Avery Moe * Breanna Diane Moeller Kameron Edward Moffatt Rylee Donovan Mohr Sean James Morrison Deziree Deann Mulvihill Turner Christina Marie Najdek + Kassandra Geraldine Nelson Heidi Furong Noes *^ Danielle Louise Nordling Samuel Garret Novitsky + Morgan Elizabeth Nyara Dillon Robert Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien Max Nikolas Oberleitner + Michael Dylan Odell +^ Opeyemi Isreal Odumakin Lauren Marie Olmschenk +^ Jolie Genevieve Morehouse Olson Jordan Daniel Olson Logan Neil Olson Matthew Christopher Olson Mikayla Lynn Olson Ariel Anne Orr +^ Brandon Thomas Orth Jacob Michael Owens Rachel Ann Owens

Best Wishes for a Bright Future Congratulations, graduates!

Johnathan Michael Palluck Casey John Parnell + Ashley Lane Partyka + Brittney Jane Patchen + Jordan Lynn Paulus Alexandria Caroline Pearson +^ River Elaine Pehrson-Alley Victoria Norris Pelkey +^ Hanley David Pesta Cooper Lloyd Peterson Savannah Kathleen Petschl +^ Cameron Austin Pettis Lucas Richard Phelps Leonard Ron Pilarski + Dominic Allen Preese Zachary Alexander Priller Mitch Allen Ramacher Jacob Houston Rath Cassandra Faye Rautio Mitchell Thomas Reisetter *^ Matthew Lauren Ringhofer Samantha Renee Ringhofer Rex River Robinson Cole Daniel Rockstad Rourke Jeffrey Rodwell Alexis Nicole Rogers + Tarin Matthew Rogowski Anna Marie Roles +^ Elin Kristina Ronquist ~ Anastasia Kristine Ronyak + Ashley-Ann Elizabeth Ross Levi Jay Ross Samantha Ann Roth +^ Caleb Joseph Rotter Brandon Thomas George Rubner Madison Sharon Rzeszutek Stephanie Kaase Salmela *^ Nicole Erin Sanders Alexis Kay Sandquist Sydney Rae Sanow

Learning Adventure Opportunity Success Friends May your graduation day be the start of many successes to come. Congratulations, Class of 2016 www.stfrancishardware.com

3715 Bridge Street St. Francis 763-753-1900 www.stfrancisdentalcare.com 10

3645 Bridge Street St. Francis, MN 763-753-1265

Class of 2016 Emily Alison Schake *^ Sarah Katelyn Schake *^ Jack Louis Scheel Michael Dan Schlag Lina L. Schmidt ~ Alyssa Marie Seibert + Ashley Nicole Seitz + Samuel James Senger Morgan Renee Sieg *^ Ian Wesley Snyder *^ Mariah Elizabeth Sodren Keegan Lee Sonnenfeld +^ Madison Jo Spanel + Jazmine Mae Spitzer *^ Natalie Ann St. Marie + Ashley Marie Stone Justin Michael Strate Shelby Lynn Strehler +^ Sienna Louise Suchy Michael John Sullivan Waldemar Carl Gunnar Sundeen ~ Sade Steven Sunderland Paige Katherine Swanson Travis Larry Swenson + Jeffrey John Symens + Wyatt Thomas Tegg +

Nicholas Taylor Thompson Joshua Lucas Thomsen Alexandrea Rose Tobako *^ Breanna Nicole Tobako *^ Dillon Royce Tradewell *^ Noah Edward Tradewell *^ Hunter Patrick Trautman + Riley James Troswick Elaina Lorayne Tueffel +^ Brice Clayton Ulness Daniel Eugene Ulrich + Arianna Marie Untereker + Valentino Vaccaro Eleonora Valioni ~ Kevin Touger Vang Pa Nhia Vang +^ WendyPaj Hnub Ci Vang Michelle Vlasyuk + Luke Christopher Vogel + Kaitlyn Chrystine Vondall *^ Rachel Athena Vouk +^ Johnathan Gaoleng Vue Kaazua Vue *^ Laici Crystal Vue Xesia Vue * Charity Ann Waalen

Kalley Karen Wagner + Madison Elizabeth Wagner Taylor Matthew Wald + Kristina Denise Jean Waldron Hannah Marie Wangensteen *^ Natalie Lynn Wasche Carter Gordon Weigel Madeline Christine Weinman +^ John Andrew West Jefferson Michael Westbrook Keegan Andrew White +^ Robert Michael Whitney *^ Corbin Kyle Williams Maria Louise Willner Kyle Richard Wilson + Samantha June Wilson Nicholas John Wipson Matthew Jared Wunderlich Laura Sophia Wyatt +^ Sarah Marie Wyatt +^ Chue Cheng Yang Abby Marie Young *^ Samantha Sue Zgutowicz +^

St. Francis High School Scholarship Recipients 2016 Mason Abraham Bill Johnson/Roger Anderson Memorial Hockey Scholarship $300, Northland Screw Products Scholarship $2,500, University of Minnesota Duluth Renewable Iron Range Scholarship $555, University of Minnesota Duluth Renewable U Promise Scholarship $3,072 Cassidy Adamson Ed Fleming Memorial Scholarship $500, St. Cloud State University Renewable Academic Scholarship $1,500 Lindsey Anderson Catholic United Financial Scholarship $500, College of St. Scholastica Renewable Legacy Scholarship $1,738. College of St. Scholastica Renewable Benedictine Scholarship $19,000 Michelle Arnold Foundation 15 Citizenship Scholarship $750, Female Activities Participant of the Year

Brady Arzdorf Lakeside Cabinets Scholarship $500, St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship $500, Augustana University Renewable Golf Scholarship $9,000, Augustana University Renewable Academic Scholarship $13,000 Brittany Bauermeister Cedar Creek Community School PTO Scholarship $250, Hamline University Renewable Presidential scholarship $23,000 Lillian Baumann John T. Jones Memorial Scholarship $250, SFHS Student Council Scholarship $400 Hannah Beckman Regency Beauty School Spring Go Cosmo Makeup Scholarship $300 Kailin Berg Sons of the American Legion Scholarship $500, Rochester Institute of Technology Renewable Presidential Scholarship $12,000

Brian Bergstrom Saints for Soccer Boys Scholarship $500, University of Minnesota Duluth Renewable Academic Scholarship $3,000 Jonathan Berkness Winona State University Renewable Academic Achievement Scholarship $1,500 Jose Blanco Foundation 15 Math Dept. Scholarship $750 Joseph Blom ISD 15 Music Faculty Scholarship $250, Male Activities Participant of the Year Alan Blue North Anoka Plumbing Scholarship $500 Michael Brand Northland Screw Products Scholarship $2,500

Continued, Page 11

The future looks bright!

Good luck and best wishes, graduates!

www.VillageBankOnline.com Member FDIC The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

From Page 10

Scholarships Caroline Brasch St. Francis Lions Club Scholarship $500, Gordon D. Nymann Memorial Scholarship $200, Wells Fargo Team Members Dependent Children Scholarship $1,500, University of Minnesota Renewable Iron Range Scholarship $2,000 Andrea Brenny Donna Mathias Student Service Award $1,000, College of St. Scholastica Renewable Tower Scholarship $1,000, College of St. Scholastica Renewable Benedictine Scholarship $19,000, College of St. Scholastica 5% Reduction of Tuition Scholarship. Isaiah Brunette Mark Evans Memorial Scholarship $1,000 Kyle Burth St. Francis Lioness Club Scholarship $350 Maria Castanon Gonzalez St. Francis American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship $1,000 Catherine Cederberg Foundation 15 FACS Dept. Scholarship $750 Tracie Clyne Morningside College Renewable Academic Scholarship $12,000 Brittany Coop Connexus Energy Scholarship $1,000, St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce

Scholarship $500, Midwest Showmen’s Association Clem Smith Memorial Scholarship $750, University of Wisconsin River Falls Academic Achievement Scholarship $1,000 Sarah Cullen St. Francis American Legion Riders Scholarship $300, St. Francis Basketball Association Scholarship $500, Fairview Northland Medical Staff Scholarship $1,000, Texas Christian University Renewable Dean’s Scholarship $20,000 Emily Daniels SFHS Track & Field/Cross Country Scholarship $500 Afton Douville Bill Johnson/Roger Anderson Memorial Hockey Scholarship $400, Dr. Noel Johnson Memorial Scholarship $1600, 50% tuition at the University of Minnesota Duluth Renewable Best of Class Scholarship Gunner Dupont ISD 15 Music Faculty Scholarship $250, Male Activities Participant of the Year, Gustavus Adolphus College Renewable Music Scholarship $1,120, Gustavus Adolphus College Renewable Jussi Bjorling Scholarship $4,000, Gustavus Adolphus College Renewable God Scholarship $12,500 Sarah Durkot Ramsey Fire Relief Scholarship $250, Ramsey Lions Club Scholarship $1,000

The St. Francis High School All Night Party Committee thanks the following businesses,

organizations and individuals for donations, helping to make this year’s party another great success! Many thanks to those who helped plan the party and the adults who volunteered their time at the high school and at Blainbrook on June 3. Without your continued support, we would not be able to provide this memorable event for our deserving graduates. Our committee also suggests to graduates, future graduates and parents, whenever possible, to thank the following sponsors personally and encourage everyone to give as much support as possible to our local business community.

Good Luck to the Class of 2016!

Dawn Abraham, SFHS Madonna & Greg Arnold A Liddle Wellness Aggressive Hydraulics American Family Insurance, Mary Dresch Agency, St. Francis Andover Community Center Anoka Hennepin Credit Union Anytime Fitness Anna Ashley, SFHS Douglas Austin, SFHS Principal Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd. Dick Bartz Anita Beal, Henna Tattooist Bed, Bath & Beyond Bills Superette, Oak Grove

Blainbrook Entertainment Center, Michelle & Donald May Blaine’s Blazin 4th Inc. Blatz Automotive & Exhaust Boston’s The Gourmet Pizza Peggy Boyer, Massage Therapist Christy Bruggenthies, SFHS Buffalo Wild Wings Cambridge Cinema Carlson Toyota, Coon Rapids Casey’s General Stores, Inc. Cedar/East Bethel Lioness Cedar/East Bethel Lions Cheap Skate/Lilli Putt, Inc. Classic Construction, Inc. Connexus Energy Costco, Coon Rapids

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Celeste Fine Foundation 15 Art Dept. Scholarship $750 Andrea Frank Anne Talle Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship $500, Female Arts, Athletics, Academics Scholarship $500, SFHS National Honor Society Scholarship $500, St. Cloud State University Renewable Presidential Scholarship $2,500 Christopher Gerlach Northern State University WolfPACT Scholarship $7,000 Dalton Gilbertson North Anoka Plumbing Scholarship $500 Megan Grandstrand St. Francis American Legion Post 622 Scholarship $1,000, St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship $500 Maxwell Greene SFHS Track & Field/Cross Country Scholarship $500 Daniel Hanson St. Francis Community Drug Awareness Scholarship $500 Kyler Hennen St. Francis American Legion Riders Scholarship $300 Haley Hoefer Connexus Energy Scholarship $1,000 Gabrielle Hoglund College of Saint Mary Renewable Academic Scholarship $6,000, College of Saint Mary Renewable Athletic Scholarship $9,000

Joni L. Craft, P.A., Fridley Dairy Queen, St. Francis Davanni’s Pizza & Hot Hoagies Dawn Crosby, SFHS Dellwood Construction Domino’s Pizza, Ham Lake Dupont Construction & Remodeling Dusty’s Drain Cleaning, Inc. Jeaninne & Robert Engler Federal Ammunition, Anoka 4imprint, Oshkosh, Wisconsin For Jake’s Sake Foundation Melissa & Tracy & Erin French Lori & Tim Fuller Gail Gessner, Henna Tattooist Jonette Hennen Hidden Haven Golf Club Jill & Tim Hoffman Holiday Station, Ramsey Independent School District 15 Independent School District 15 Transportation – Joann Erickson Pat Johnson Cassie Kloss Les O’Donnell Peggy Tesdahl Linda & Kirk Jenkinson Laurie & Tom Johnson

Danielle Hoppe St. Francis American Legion Post 622 Scholarship $1,000, St. Francis Basketball Association Scholarship $500 Amy Houle Fred Dawson Memorial Scholarship $1,000, Coe College Renewable Sibling Scholarship $500, Coe College Renewable Trustee Scholarship $22,500 Alee Hueffmeier Kunshier St. Francis American Legion Post 622 Scholarship $1,000, Mercy Hospital Volunteer Scholarship $1,000 Benjamin Hylen St. Francis Basketball Association Scholarship $500, Gustavus Adolphus College Renewable Dean’s Scholarship Kyla Ingberg Lakeside Cabinets Scholarship $500 Amelia Johnson Foundation 15 PE Dept. Scholarship $750, Ramsey Lions Club Scholarship $1,000, Richard Hubbard/Stan Yovetich Memorial Scholarship $750, Mercy Hospital Auxiliary Outstanding Volunteer Scholarship $1,000, University of Nebraska Lincoln Renewable Ruth Leverton Scholarship and Scarlet Scholarship $13,000 Jadie Johnson Sara Sauer CPA Scholarship $500 Katrina Johnson ISD 15 Music Faculty Scholarship $250, Winona State University Renewable Music

Josten’s M. C. Homes, St. Francis Tammy MacDiamird, Tarot Card & Astrologist Mansetti’s Pizza & Pasta Minnesota Zoo Northland Screw Products, Inc. Northway Sports Nowthen Lions Club Oak Roads Grille, Michael Blood & Joseph Stafsholt Opp Family Chiropractic P. A., St. Francis Sheri Orr Tracy & Gary Partyka Patriot Lanes Bar & Grill, St. Francis Physical Therapy Consultants, Inc. Reichert Productions Inc., Dustin (Freddie Justice) Reichert, Hypnotist Reichert Productions Photo Booths, Dustin Reichert Rench, Becker, Carlson & Ackerman, D. D. S., P. A. Route 65 Pub & Grub St. Francis American Legion Post # 622 St. Francis Area Women of Today St. Francis Community Drug Awareness

Scholarship $1,000, Winona State University Academic Scholarship $1,500 Kyle Keehr Foundation 15 Citizenship Scholarship $750, Luther College Renewable Founders’ Scholarship $19,000 Katlyn Kenney St. Catherine University Renewable Presidential Scholarship $28,000 Makilyn Koep Anoka Hennepin Credit Union Scholarship $500 Sophia Kortemeier Foundation 15 Music Dept. Scholarship $750, Cedar/ East Bethel Lioness Club Scholarship $500, St. Francis Community Drug Awareness Scholarship $500, Gustavus Adolphus College Renewable Jussi Bjorling Music Scholarship $2,000, Gustavus Adolphus College Renewable Dean’s Scholarship $19,000 Kendra Krebsbach St. Francis Lions Club Scholarship $500, Cyril C. Daniels Memorial Scholarship $500, Multiple Sclerosis Society Scholarship $1,000, College of St. Benedict Renewable Trustee Scholarship $22,000 Caytlin Lindeland Concordia College Moorhead Renewable Speech Scholarship $2,000, Concordia College Moorhead Renewable Priority Cobber Scholarship $7,000

Continued, Page 12

St. Francis Dental Care St. Francis Lioness Club St. Francis Lions Club Julie & Chris Salitros Sno-Ghosts Snowmobile Club Special Tools, Inc., St. Francis Tammy Stanley, Message Therapist Beth & Dave Sturdevant Subway, Ham Lake Subway, Oak Grove Super America Jeff Taylor, Palm Reader TCF Bank, Anoka Target, Fridley Temperature Specialists, Inc. The Courier, ISD 15 Three Rivers Park District Shelly Tradewell, SFHS Village Bank, East Bethel & St. Francis Lois & Joe Wander Michelle & Jim Wenker Wild Kingdom Child Care, Rebecca Schlag Hally & Joe Wines The Women of St. Johns Lutheran Church, Zimmerman YMCA, Andover 11

From Page 11

Scholarships Maly Lor College of St. Benedict Renewable Intercultural Leadership Scholarship $10,000 Pheng Lor Foundation 15 Science Dept. Scholarship $750 Aarilee Lorenzen St. Francis American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship $1,000 Sydney Meyers For Jake’s Sake Foundation Scholarship $500 Bobbijean Miller Foundation 15 Social Studies Dept. Scholarship $750 Katrina Miller ISD 15 Music Faculty Scholarship $250 Jolie Olson Foundation 15 Language Arts Dept. Scholarship $750, Bethel University Renewable Royal Merit Scholarship $9,000 Logan Olson Bill Johnson/Roger Anderson Memorial Hockey Scholarship $200 Matthew Olson Foundation 15 Jacque Stein Memorial Scholarship $750 Rachel Owens St. Francis Lioness Club Scholarship $350 Alexandria Pearson Sara Sauer CPA Scholarship $500, Wartburg College Renewable Presidential Scholarship $22,000 Anna Roles SFHS National Honor Society Scholarship $500, College of St. Scholastica Renewable Benedictine Scholarship $19,000 Anastasia Ronyak For Jake’s Sake Foundation Scholarship $500, Bethel University Renewable Royal Merit Scholarship $17,000

Levi Ross Richard Hubbard/Stan Yovetich Memorial Scholarship $750 Madison Rzeszutek Dig It Volleyball Scholarship $500 Stephanie Salmela SFHS National Honor Society Scholarship $500, North Dakota State University Frank Baine Presidential Scholarship $2,000, North Dakota State University Renewable Presidential Honor Scholarship $2,500 Emily Schake Education Minnesota St. Francis Scholarship $750, St. Francis American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship $1,000, Winona State University Renewable President’s Honor Scholarship $3,000 Sarah Schake Foundation 15 Business Dept. Scholarship $750, Anne Talle Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship $1,000, Winona State University Renewable Foundation Scholarship $500, Winona State University Renewable President’s Honor Scholarship $3,500 Morgan Sieg Drake University Renewable Presidential Scholarship $14,000 Ian Snyder Cedar Creek Community School PTO Scholarship $250, Bethel University Royal Merit Scholarship $17,500 Jazmine Spitzer Ham Lake Lions Club Scholarship $500, University of Minnesota CLA Freshman Research and Creative Scholarship $2,000, University of Minnesota Renewable Charles & Myrtle Stroud Scholarship $3,000 Natalie St. Marie Bill Johnson/Roger Anderson Memorial Hockey Scholarship $300, College of St. Scholastica Renewable Alumni Referral

August 6 & 7 25 th Anniversary

Cambridge Antique Fair Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. EARLY BUYER • Friday, August 5 • 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission of $20 includes pass for the whole weekend.

Hundreds of Antique Dealers

Scholarship $300, College of St. Scholastica Renewable Benedictine Scholarship $19,000 Ashley Stone Morningside College Performance Scholarship $5,000, Morningside College Academic Scholarship $7,000 Sade Sunderland Saints for Soccer Boys Scholarship $500 Alexandria Tobako – Red Cross Scholarship $250, Oak Grove Fire Dept. Scholarship $500, St. Cloud State University Renewable President’s Scholarship $2,500 Breanna Tobako Red Cross Scholarship $250, Virginia Pearson Anderson Memorial Scholarship $1,500, Winona State University Renewable Presidential Honor Scholarship Dillon Tradewell Cyril C. Daniels Memorial Scholarship $500, Catholic Aid Scholarship $500, University of St. Thomas Renewable Academic Scholarship $20,900 Noah Tradewell Male Arts, Athletics, Academics Scholarship $500, St. John’s University Renewable Trustees’ Scholarship $22,000 Hunter Trautman Male Athlete of the Year, Northern State University Renewable Athletic Scholarship $3,000, Northern State University WolfPACT Scholarship $5,000

Arianna Untereker Bethel University Renewable Royal Merit Scholarship $12,000 Pa Nhia Vang Nickolas Engler Memorial Scholarship $1,000 Wendy Vang Foundation 15 Counseling Dept. Scholarship $750 Luke Vogel Catholic United Financial Scholarship $300 Kaitlyn Vondall ISD 15 Music Faculty Scholarship $250, Lee Carlson Endowment Scholarship $250, St. Francis Elementary School APT Scholarship $300, College of St. Benedict Renewable Vocal Scholarship $4,000, College of St. Benedict Renewable Presidential Scholarship $18,500 Rachel Vouk St. Francis American Legion Post 622 Scholarship $1,000 Kaazua Vue Connexus Energy Scholarship $1,000 Taylor Wald A-1 Engineering Scholarship $1,000 Hannah Wangensteen St. Olaf College Renewable Academic Scholarship $29,000 Natalie Wasche St. Francis American Legion Riders Scholarship $300 Robert Whitney St. Francis Lions Club Scholarship $500, St. Francis Basketball Association Scholarship $500, Village

Delaney Anne Falenschek Sieber, Anoka, was named to the 2016 spring semester dean’s list at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin. Sarah Rose Grey, Oak Grove, received a bachelor of business administration in marketing from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Nicholas Wilson, son of James and Nicole Wilson of Oak Grove, participated in the 159th annual Commencement Ceremony at Saint John’s

University on May 8 in the Saint John’s Abbey and University Church, Collegeville. Wilson is a candidate to receive a bachelor of arts in psychology. Nicole Koonce, daughter of Heather Koonce of Cedar, participated in the 101st annual Commencement Ceremony at the College of Saint Benedict (CSB) on May 7 at the Clemens Field House on the CSB campus, St. Joseph, Minnesota. Koonce

COMING SOON ST. FRANCIS BRANDED APPAREL

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This coupon is good for $1 Off one regular priced admission of $6; 12 and under are FREE to the Cambridge Antique Fair. One coupon per admission. Not valid with any other offers. Expires August 7, 2016.

Staff Awards Katelyn Larson – Activities Advisor of the Year Joan Johnson – Coach of the Year

Student Updates

Isanti County Fairgrounds • Cambridge, MN

Metro Promotions, Inc. • Ham Lake, MN 55304 763-434-6664 • Email: kwel16421@aol.com

Bank Scholarship $500, Bethel University Renewable Royal Merit Scholarship $17,500 Laura Wyatt Red Cross Scholarship $250, University of Minnesota Twin Cities Renewable Presidential Emerging Scholars Scholarship $1,000 Sarah Wyatt Foundation 15 World Language Dept. Scholarship $750, ISD 15 Music Faculty Scholarship $250, Luther College Renewable Music Scholarship $2,000, Luther College Renewable Presidential Scholarship $17,000 Chue Cheng Yang Morningside College Renewable Music Scholarship $5,000 Abby Young Oak Grove Fire Dept. Scholarship $500, Mercy Hospital Medical Staff Scholarship $600, Winona State University Renewable Presidential Scholarship $2,500 Samantha Zgutowicz For Jake’s Sake Foundation Scholarship $500, Northern State University Renewable Athletic Scholarship $3,000, Northern State University WolfPACT Scholarship $5,000, Female Athlete of the Year, Athena Award Winner.

Silk Screen & Embroidery 763-443-2243 T-SHIRTS

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is a candidate to receive a bachelor of arts in history with the honor of cum laude. The following students were named to the 2016 spring semester dean’s list at St. Cloud State University. Bethel Elizabeth Hicks, College of Liberal Arts, Psychology Cedar Alaina Anderson, SPED: Academic & Behavioral Strategist Mitchell Anderson, Undecided Alex Julkowski, Social Studies Education East Bethel Amber Reisetter, Elementary/K-6 Education Taylor Snelling, Nursing Anthony Tobako, Accounting Oak Grove Ryelee Fedor-Helmbrecht, Finance Samantha Smith, Studio Art Crystal Solberg, Film Studies St. Francis Ashley Dattalo, Mathematics Continued Page 30

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Community Education A Taste of Community event was held at Sandhill Center May 21. Sponsored by the Senior Advisory Group and Community Education of Independent School District 15, the event featured displays and booths, refreshments, garden plants, advice from a Master Gardener and more. Todd “Elvis” Anderson performed in the Cabaret and storytime took place in the Sandhill Library along with a variety of demonstrations. Pictured (L-R) are AnnElise Brostrom, Caleb Brostrom and Madison Arndt, members of Anoka County 4-H Buckthorn Busters, with their display addressing the invasive species of buckthorn and how to eradicate it using an organic solution rather than a harmful herbicide. Watch The Courier for future events at Sandhill Center.

Classes & Events

23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005

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

The Courier photo

ISD 15 Community Education on Facebook @isd15CommunityEducation

SilverSneakers Yoga

Youth Football

Register online, www.communityed15.com NOW or call Amy at 763-213-1588. Tackle Football Youth Football Camp Grades: 2-6 Fee: $160 by July 16 $180 after July 16

Camp is designed to prepare players for the next level of football. Work with varsity coaches on football fundamentals.

Grades: 7–8 Fee: $180 by July 16 $200 after July 16

Location: St. Francis Middle School Course: SC-716021 Grades: 5–8 Dates: July 27 & 28 Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Fee: $45

Equipment Deposit $100 check will be required before equipment is handed out.

Now available at two convenient locations—Cedar Creek Community School and St. Francis Elementary School! Summer Kids Connection childcare offers a safe, nurturing atmosphere for children that brings summer fun to a whole new level. Flexible options for parents. Grades: Age 4 through completion of grade 5 Hours: 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Dates: June 6–August 30 (closed July 4) Summer Kids Connection provides a variety of learning activities and recreational experiences to fill each day. Fun weekly field trips and summer activities are offered. Registration forms available online at www.isd15.org/kc or call 763-213-1641. The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Registe r

Course: SC-716022 Equipment Handout Grades: K–4 July, 11 & 12, 6:00-7:00 p.m. at July 25 & 26 St. Francis Middle School Football shed. Dates: Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m. No equipment will be handed out at Fee: $40 camp. When registering, remember to change the program year to 2016-17. Contact Diane Guinn, Rec Department Manager, for more info at 763-213-1823. The Rec Department a division of ISD 15 Community Education

Before and after school childcare

Questions? Call Chris at 763-213-1616 or Lori at 763-213-1641 Visit www.communityed15.com/kc Billing questions: 762-213-1641 Program Sites Cedar Creek Community School East Bethel Community School St. Francis Elementary School 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.

School year care begins September 6 and continues through June 2, 2017. Before School Care Begins at 6:00 a.m. until school starts ��$9.50/day After School Care Begins at end of school day until 6:00 p.m. ��$9.00/day

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 & Fit members; $2 per class for nonmembers 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 & Fit members; $2 per class for nonmembers No registration required No classes July 4, 7, 9 or September 5 Sandhill is a Silver & Fit qualified center. For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program or the Sandhill Center, please call 763-2131640. To see if you qualify as a Silver & Fit member or a SilverSneakers member, please contact your insurance company.

Non-School Day Care 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. ��$32/day Other fees Registration fee ��$35/child each additional child is $10 13

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

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

Check out summer Preschool Place 15 & Early Childhood Family Education camps and offerings. Visit www.isd15.org/ecfe for more information and registration.

What is ECFE?

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

Watch your mail for the new Learn & Thrive brochure that will tell you about ECFE parent/child classes for the 2016-17 school year.

Expanding to

Lifelong Learning Center for the 2016-17 school year 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 info.

Students at the Lifelong Learning Center had the opportunity to participate in a show all about feelings. The Inside Outside Feelings Show by Brian Richards taught students about how everyone has different feelings and how you can spread your feelings, good and bad, to others around you. Children enjoyed the magic and tricks that were displayed to help them have a deeper understanding about feelings. This show was sponsored by the Early Childhood Advisory Council. Jenny Dupre, ECFE/PP15 Manager

Early Childhood Screening

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

Community Education Directory Community Education Director............................................................... 763-753-7048 Adult Basic Education (GED)...................................................................... 763-753-7190 Adult Education & Services......................................................................... 763-213-1640 Communications/The Courier.................................................................. 763-753-7031 Districtwide Youth Activities • K-8........................................................... 763-213-1616 Districtwide Youth Activities • 9-12........................................................ 763-213-1640 Driver’s 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 Program Supervisor.................................................. 763-213-1616 Kids Connection Cedar Creek Community School Site........ 763-753-7160 Kids Connection St. Francis Elementary School Site.............. 763-213-8674 Preschool Place 15/School Readiness.................................................. 763-753-7170 Rec Department................................................................................................. 763-213-1823 www.isd15.org • www.the-courier.org • www.communityed15.com 14

Safety

Classes also available for two-year-olds and very young three-year-olds

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.

Preschool Place 15

For more information on classes and to register visit www.isd15.org or call 763-753-7170

Independent School District 15 Early Childhood Family Education is offering Preschool Place 15 at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove. Highlights of the program are: } Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available } One, two, three times per week } Two-hour to two-and-a-half-hour sessions } Most classes are age specific } Free or reduced tuition and fees based on family size and income The curriculum of Preschool Place 15 focuses on social skills and early literacy development. Mathematical thinking, scientific thinking, social studies, the arts and physical development are also part of the curriculum. Environments are designed to enhance and expand children’s understanding of the world as they direct their own play. Teachers facilitate the child’s learning; they guide and encourage independent learning in each child.

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Community & Business ISD 15 hires new Community Education Director Lisa Rahn Heidi Anderson

Staff Writer

After a rigorous interview process, a 17-member panel made up of Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) staff and community members chose to hire Lisa Rahn as the Director of Community Education for ISD 15. When she applied to the position, Rahn was impressed with the collaborative effort between the district and the Community Education department. “I liked how Community Education was embedded with the school district,” Rahn said. Rahn is also looking forward to finding ways to continue bringing the community and school district together, which is a core value of ISD 15’s Strategic Plan. “I’m excited to get to know the community and see what collaborations we can build,” Rahn said.

Even though she doesn’t begin until July 1, Rahn has already attended ISD 15 functions, such as a school board meeting and the Foundation 15 fundraiser. Her goals for her first year are to meet with every Community Education manager to learn more and evaluate each program, get to know staff and to offer more programming in Early Childhood. Rahn has worked for Community Education in the Richfield School District for 18 years and combined Community Education with the Richfield and Bloomington school districts. Programs she currently works with include adult enrichment, drivers education, youth enrichment, early childhood and community outreach. She is also licensed in elementary education and received her community education director’s licensure from St. Cloud State University.

News Radio 830 WCCO host John Williams and Jordana Green did a live broadcast from Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in St. Francis June 2. Local guests on the show included St. Francis Mayor Steve Kane, members of the St. Francis High School marching band and other patrons. Joe Selmer Jr. (pictured left with Jordana Green) created a customized WCCO wooden sculpture during the show. Submitted photo by Paul Hare, community member

The Courier on Facebook @isd15courier

Boy Scout Troop 733 8th Annual East Bethel

Booster Days 5K Fun Walk/Run Saturday, July 16 • 8:00 a.m. East Bethel City Hall

Register Now! Registration brochures can be downloaded at www.ci.east-bethel.mn.us. Questions, please contact Cindy at 763-249-5373.

5th Annual Kids 1K! Bring your children to East Bethel Booster Park at 9:00 a.m. for a Kids 1K around the pond! The 1K is designed for children 12 and under. Each participant will receive a medal of participation.

Proceeds from the Booster Day 5K & 1K FUN Run/Walk will be donated to the Booster Day Committee for future Booster Day celebrations and Boy Scout Troop 733. Sponsors: The Life Fitness 5K Color Run/Walk presented by the St. Francis Lions Club was held June 4. Participants began at St. Francis High School (SFHS) and weaved throughout Rum River North County Park before crossing the finish line at the SFHS track. (Left) Victoria Borst and Aubree Hare had fun getting covered with color powder at the start The Courier Photo of the race.

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Sowada & Barna Plumbing, Peoples Bank of Commerce, Cedar Creek Automotive, Wasche Commercial Finishes, Route 65 Pub & Grub, Green Barn Garden Center, Opp Family Chiropractic, AAA Transcription, LLC and Aggressive Hydraulics.

s will receive a 5K participant . ter Day T-shirt 8th Annual Boos , snacks and a er at w Plus a bottle of course. the end of the goodie bag at

St. Francis Lions update Don Hiller

St. Francis Lions

763-753-2721

3745 Bridge Street • St. Francis, MN

NOW Texas SERVING Hold ’EM Breakfast Monday evenings at 7:00 p.m.

Weekdays at 11:00 a.m. Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m.-noon

Patriot Lanes Bar and Grill Check us out at patriotlanesbarandgrill.com 3085 Bridge Street, St. Francis • 763-753-4011 Hours 11:00 am-1:00 am

Lions around the globe, as well as the St. Francis Lions, are looking forward to the organization’s Centennial Celebration as the Lions near 100 years of service. In this next year, Lions are going to make a mark in the world, as well as our community. Our newly elected officers are going to help usher in the next century of service. New St. Francis Lions President Dan Geving has boundless energy and contagious enthusiasm. He is fairly new to the Lions, but has brought in new members and ideas for the next generation. Outgoing President John Fraune said in regards to our future, Margaret Mead said it all. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Since the St. Francis Lions charter started in 1968, we have helped at many benefits for local causes and people. Look for us, as we are everywhere. Our motto is “We Serve.” The St. Francis Lions Club currently has 24 members and meets on the second Wednesday of the month, 7:00 p.m., at the St. Francis

wide variety of

Legion. For more information or to get involved, please call 763-200-6473 or email sf.lions.mn@gmail.com. Our 46,000 Lions Clubs and more than 1.4 million members make us the world’s largest service club organization. We’re also one of the most effective. Our members do whatever is needed to help local communities. Everywhere we work, we make friends with children who need eyeglasses, seniors who don’t have enough to eat and people we may never meet.

New St. Francis Lions President Dan Geving and Submitted Photo Lion Jason Glass.

Downtown Isanti Street Dances Downtown Isanti • 1st Avenue NW & Main Street Alternate location if inclement weather is the Isanti Indoor Arena.

trees

Trees Shrubs Perennials

Nowthen Nursery

and Great Northern Landscapes

763-274-2678 www.gnlandscapes.com County Road 22 in Nowthen Gardening Supplies Landscaping Irrigation

Bands Play 0 7:00-11.:0 p.m

FREE

lic!

the pub o t n e p o and

Food and drink sales on-site

Saturday, July 16 Variegated Maple Royal Red Maple Renaissance Reflection Paper Birch Weeping Larch/Tamarack Catalpa Weeping Norway Spruce Flamingo Willow Tree Parker Pear Pipestone Plum Honeycrisp Apple

Saturday, August 13

Jason M. Semler

REALTOR®, CRS, GRI, CDPE, CIAS, SFR, e-PRO, BPOR

612-282-8233 www.agentsemler.com • Full service real estate broker • Seller and buyer representation • Free market analysis

• Free home buyer consultation • Licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin

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Considering new construction? Check out award-winning, local builder “Delivering the Quality You Expect and Deserve Semler Homes, Inc. Since 1981” www.semlerhomes.com BC#0003649 Free estimates given.

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Local ambassadors to participate in Minneapolis Aquatennial Ambassador Scholarship Program Eileen Hafften

2016 Minneapolis Aquatennial AAO board secretary

St. Francis Ambassador Brittany Coop and East Bethel Ambassador Karley Landwehr will travel to Minneapolis to participate in the Minneapolis Aquatennial Ambassador Scholarship Program. Their busy days will be capped by the coronation of the 2017 Aquatennial Ambassadors Saturday July 23 at 4:00 p.m. at the Ted Mann Concert Hall on the University of Minnesota campus. During their stay in Minneapolis Coop and Landwehr will experience leadership seminars at the Woman’s Club of Minneapolis, private events, a Segway tour of historic Minneapolis, a ride in the Aquatennial Torchlight Parade, boat rides on Lake Minnetonka, private viewing of the legendary Target Fireworks and a “Meet the Candidates” event scheduled from noon until 2:00 p.m. Wednesday July 22 at City Center. Candidates will also participate in several judged interviews throughout the week. The 2017 Ambassadors will be selected based on a number of qualities including communication skills, volunteerism and leadership. It’s been a fun-filled year for Coop and Landwehr. Both ambassadors loved all of the volunteer work they did through their programs and being able to tell people about the communities of St. Francis and East Bethel. Their roles as ambassadors will come to a close as they participate in the Minneapolis Aquatennial celebration and Ambassador Scholarship Program.

The St. Francis Ambassador program held its coronation June 4 during Pioneer Days at St. Francis Middle School. Congratulations to 2016-17 Miss St. Francis Ambassadors (L-R) Marian Hollenbeck and Lily Strecker and Little Miss St. Francis Ambassadors Lilliana Montes and Audrina Glass. By jacquie goedel, st. Francis ambassador program

Isanti Indoor BMX Arena Free Home of Rum River BMX Practice

For anyone trying the sport for the first time use this coupon for

If you like to ride a bike, you will love what we have to offer: ■ Free loaner helmets ■ Free bikes as available ■ Free clinics (check website for dates and times) ■ Mentor and coaching programs

■ Free first practice for riders and families

tors

Specta or

watch f

free

763-444-5429 www.rumriverbmx.com 101 Isanti Parkway NW, Isanti, MN 55040 Coupon not valid with any other offers. One coupon per customer. Expires July 31, 2016.

Whether you race or practice, fun will be had by all as you ride on one of the premier tracks in the country.

■ Riders of all ages welcome (1-63) 1-4 year old balance bike course

Affordable, Year-Round Family Fun Destination

101 Isanti Parkway NW Isanti, MN 55040

www.rumriverbmx.com The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

■ Hotline

763-444-5429 17

Business Spotlight

Heidi Anderson Staff Writer

Gerdin Auto & Tire For 39 years, people have counted on Gerdin Auto & Tire at 3128 Bridge Street in St. Francis for much of their car repair needs. Owners Randy and Cherry Gerdin employ seven fulltime and six part-time employees, some of which have worked there for more than thirty years. The most common issues that customers come in with are mechanical or brake problems and tune-ups. For two years, they have also provided impound and towing for the city of St. Francis. Their impound lot is located in Bethel at their old location. They also have factory scan technology that is used to detect problems. Only ten to fifteen percent of shops have this type of technology. Gerdin has written a column in each issue of The Courier since February of 1994. His material for “I Hate When that Happens” comes from everyday car issues that arise at the shop. He has written about everything from check engine lights to vehicle computers and more. Though

Randy Gerdin, owner of Gerdin Auto & Tire. File photo Gerdin spends most of his time in the office or at the computer, he still consults on tougher vehicle problems. For more information on Gerdin Auto & Tire, visit gerdinauto.com or call 763-434-1686.

1500 ESPN Twin Cities’ Garage Logic, hosted by Joe Soucheray, did a live broadcast from St. Francis True Value June 3 during St. Francis Pioneer Days. Many fans stopped by to listen to the show and meet on-air personalities. The Courier Photo

Schedule — Friday, July 15

July

1 5 -1 6 , 2 01 6

Friday & Saturday! Booster Park Family Fun Days East Bethel Community Center 2241 221st Avenue NE

One mile east of Hwy 65, corner of 221st and Palisade Street

Viking Meadows Golf Course East Bethel Chamber Golf Tournament... 11:00 a.m. See Golf Outing registration form on the city’s website. Movie in Community Center the park! East Bethel Fire Department Waterball Event...................................... 6:30 p.m. Booster Park West Concessions and pre-movie activities......... 7:00 p.m. Free movie Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens in the park courtesy of Chops, Inc................Dusk In case of inclement weather, this will be held at East Bethel Ice Arena.

All Day Events - Saturday, July 16 East Bethel Seniors Craft & Bake Sale, Raffle & Silent Auction FOOD, FOOD, FOOD Inflatables Vendors with good stuff to sell HeartSafe AED/CPR Training Available

Treasure Hunt for ages 4-10 courtesy of Peoples Bank Drawing for East Bethel Fire Department Birthday Party package (10 years and younger, for East Bethel children please)

Schedule — Saturday, July 16

Community Center Pancake Breakfast............................................................................... 7:00-11:00 a.m. Flag Raising....................................................................................................8:00 a.m. 5K Run/Walk..................................................................................................8:15 a.m. Costume contest, trivia, East Bethel Fire Department Auxiliary Blood Drive...................9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. drawings Car/Truck/Tractor Show...............................................................9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Special guests 1K Fun Run/Walk for Kids............................................................................9:15 a.m. Concessions by St. Francis Sheriff’s fingerprinting................................................................................11:30 a.m. Youth Hockey Assn. Bingo...................................................................................................... 1:00-4:00 p.m. Lots of fun to be had! East Bethel Ice Arena East Bethel Royalty Pageant..........................................................................2:00 p.m. Thank you to our sponsors! Booster Park Kiddie Parade registration.........................................9:30 a.m. Gold Level Kiddie Parade...........................................................10:00 a.m. East Bethel Fire The GRAND PARADE..............................................11:00 a.m. Relief Association Tennis Courts Bethel Lions Turtle Races.....................12:30 p.m. RKS Cedar/East O Petting Zoo........................................................ 1:00-3:00 p.m. W E Silver Level Bronze Level FIR Booster Park West Central Trailer Sales EJ’s Bar and Bottle Shoppe, Osborne Development, Inc. Tractor Pull.................................................................1:30 p.m. Coon Lake Community Center Go For It Liquor and Gas Station Anoka County Radio Control Club Plane Fun Fly.....1:00 p.m. and Seniors Central Truck Service, Inc. 55th Annual Firefighters Celebration Food/Beverages/Music........................8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Live Music Good For Gary Fireworks........................................................................ Dusk Courtesy of the Booster Day Committee & City of East Bethel Interested in the General information regarding Enter our Classic Car, Truck East Bethel Royalty Pageant Interested in the parade? A BIG thank you to all our volunteers Friday night events? Booster Day or to make a and Tractor show! If interested in becoming a Email eastbethelparade and committee members who work Contact East Bethel City candidate or event information, donation For information contact Dan Dobbs, hard to create these special days! @hotmail.com Hall 763-367-7840 contact Ken Orr at 763-218-0123 Email ebboosterdays@gmail.com 612-328-3926 or Duals1958@aol.com

Friday night FREE movie in the park

on k s u d t a urday! Sat

Check the city’s website for all the up-to-date information under the Booster Day tab, www.ci.east-bethel.mn.us, or check us out on Facebook, East Bethel Booster Day. 18

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Disc golf grows in popularity around the country and locally Heidi Anderson

Staff Writer

What started out as Frisbee enthusiasts tossing their discs at random targets quickly skyrocketed into one of today’s most popular sporting and recreation activities (Disc Gold Association). Disc golf is a sport where participants try to throw a disc into a basket in as few attempts as possible, similar to ball golf. About two million people are regular disc golf players, according the Professional Disc Golf Association. The average length of time to play a round is a little over two hours. According to the Professional Disc Golf Association, the number of courses in the United States has grown 16 percent each year to reach the current total of 5,500 courses. Two of the top rated courses in the country, Blue Ribbon Pines and VisionQuest, are located in East Bethel and Cedar respectively. VisionQuest owner Mike Rivard is not too surprised by the success of disc golf. According to Rivard, owning and operating a disc golf course is less costly and takes up less space than a ball golf course. He also says that it is a sport that all ages can play, though it is mostly popular with those ages 1530. Some courses, including VisionQuest, have golf carts available for those who choose not to walk the course. Disc golf can also be a yearround sport. At VisionQuest, there was a league this past winter that lasted for eight weeks. All 18 holes were plowed and nine holes had fire pits to keep players warm.

The Courier Photo

Rivard says that those who have never played before should try playing a round, because veteran disc golfers are quick to show beginners the ropes. After just a little help, beginners can expect to see immediate improvement. There are also a variety of discs that are used when playing disc golf. Rivard says that there are different weighted discs that players use depending on the situation. Most disc

golfers carry ten to fifteen discs with them at a time. Rivard also designed the layout of VisionQuest. The course features holes nestled back into the woods as well as more challenging holes over a large pond. Kayaks are available for players to retrieve disks. There are also zip lines set up for more daring players to glide over the water to reach the basket.

Attention Home Owners We would like to transform your space to be more functional, comfortable and beautiful.

According to Rivard, the one thing still missing from the disc golf industry is a large stream of revenue. Right now, most revenue comes when there is a cost to play at a course, which averages anywhere from $5 to $20 per person. There are also some sponsorships at the professional level, but not nearly as many as similar sports such as ball golf. Rivard says that also unlike ball golf, there is not currently spectator accessibility at most disc golf courses. However, when he designed VisionQuest, he created space for visitors to watch players, especially during major tournaments. Currently visitors can bring their own food and drinks to VisionQuest. Grills are

available near the clubhouse, along with beanbag toss and giant Jenga games. Once a sewer system is installed, Rivard says they plan to offer food for purchase. In the future, Rivard would like to add a 15-foot high restaurant and clubhouse with a 200-person capacity deck that overlooks the entire course. He also hopes to install other family friendly activities such as mini golf. An all-day pass to play at VisionQuest is $10 per person. Currently the course is open to the public on weekends only, but beginning on July 15, the course will be open to all players, seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to dusk. Yearly memberships are also available for $200 per person or $250 for a family.

Call 763-413-3575 today! Dana Blankenship travel.experts@outlook.com

HUGE Cruise SALE Winter 2017 open for sale

Specializing In: Bathrooms | Kitchens | Basement Finishes Oak Grove Lions Club Presents…

Call us for solutions in your home today!

Saturday, August 13 • 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Oak Grove City Hall Complex 19900 Nightingale Street NW, Oak Grove

612.490.5425

Huge Fireworks Display Wednesday, July 27 at dusk.

JULY 26-31, 2016

Events Scheduled Live Music St. Francis High School Drum Line Roadhouse Blue Lake George Conservation Club

Family Fun for All is coming soon!

Oak Grove Fire Department Firefighting Equipment Can Do Canines Car Show Bingo and Bake Sale, Oak Grove Senior Club

Kick off with the St. Francis High School Drum Line

Life Link Helicopter

www.ANOKACOUNTYFAIR.com

Don’t Miss

Bull Riding & Mutton Bustin’ • Motocross NTPA Tractor Pull • ATV Big Air Tour GB Leighton • Chris Hawkey And so much more! Fair Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 am-11:00 pm Exhibit buildings close at 10:00 pm Sunday 10:00 am-9:00 pm The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Adult Admission

Only

Pay one price! Admission includes…

Grandstand Shows and Parking No refunds

Anoka County Sheriff’s Office Specialty Vehicles, K-9 Unit Demo Wellness Van - Allina Health will provide FREE blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose tests Mayor’s Tractor Ride Kid’s Games

Pottery Demonstration

Silent Auction

Beverage Garden

Vendors, Crafts, etc.

Food Booths

Electrical Safety Demonstration Bald Eagle Booth

Car Show call Mark for details, 763-753-3997

For more information, call Lion Cheryl 763-753-4602 or email bluesage51@gmail.com 19

St. Francis Pioneer Days parade winners By St. Francis area chamber of commerce Visitors braved rainy weather to enjoy the Pioneer Days parade in St. Francis June 4. Independent School District 15 groups, such as the high school marching band, dance team and football team, entertained parade-goers. Following is the list of parade winners. Entertainment Category 1st St. Francis High School Marching Band 2nd River City Rhythm 3rd Robbinsdale City Band Community Service Groups 1st St. Francis High School Dance and Football Team 2nd St. Francis Youth Hockey 3rd St. Francis Cub Scout Pack 511 Royalty Category 1st Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program 2nd New Brighton Stockyard Days

3rd Anoka Halloween Ambassadors Business Category 1st St. Francis Gladiators Wrestling Club 2nd A to Z Services Inc 3rd Classic Construction

Parade-goers were entertained by the St. Francis High School Marching Band at the Pioneer Days parade June 4.

th 139 l a Annu

Photo by the courier

Village Bank provided free root beer floats during the Pioneer Days’ Photo by Dana Kinde, Senior VP Village Bank festivities.

Grandstand

Bandshell

2016 Grandstand Admissions Pricing See our tickets page for additional discounts, package deals and online ticket purchasing coming soon! Adult Admission $7, Child Admission 6-12 $3, kids 5 and under FREE! Back By Popular Demand—Wednesday and Thursday Night ONLY: Free grandstand entrance for kids 12 and under with paid adult admission. Adult admission ticket $7, one child per paid adult.

Wednesday, July 20 7:00 p.m. Larry Loftus & The Wild Horses Band Thursday, July 21 7:00 pm Larry Loftus & The Wild Horses Band Friday, July 22 8:00 pm Music by Horizontal Hero

Wednesday, July 20 Motocross Races Thursday, July 21 Night of Destruction Friday, July 22 Tractor Pull Saturday, July 23 Demolition Derby

7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Horizontal Hero

Saturday, July 23 8:00 pm Music by Six to Midnight

Six to Midnight

www.IsantiCountyFair.com For more information, please call the fair office at 763-689-2555

Gate Admission

$5 Adults; $2 Age 6-12, 5 & Under FREE Isanti County Fairgrounds Cambridge, MN (East of Highway 65 on Highway 95)

Sunday, July 24 8:00 am Music by The Mystery Mountain Boys 12:30 pm Neighberz Band 3:00 pm Talent Show

Highlights Cock-a-Doodle Zoo Petting Zoo • Dani - The Milking Cow • Strong Man Competitions Balloon Artist • Horse Shows • Free Trolly Rides • Talent Show • 4-H Activities • Food & Drinks Carnival with Daily Ride Specials & Armband Days!

Advance Tickets available online at www.IsantiCountyFair.com

See our tickets page for additional discounts, package deals and online ticket purchasing coming soon! For a complete schedule of events visit www.IsantiCountyFair.com

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Anoka to host 19th annual Independence Day celebration events Pam Bowman

Communications Coordinator

Bring your "oohs and ahhs" to the 19th annual fireworks display Sunday, July 3, at Castle Field in Anoka. The event draws thousands of people to the area and is sure to kick-off the holiday with some flare! Fireworks begin at 10:00 p.m. This and other celebrations would not be possible without the generous

support and donations from local businesses, organizations and individuals. Before the fireworks, come and watch the Anoka American Legion Post #102 alumni baseball game. Past and present Anoka Legion players will be getting together for what has become a traditional baseball event at Castle Field. The first pitch will be thrown at 5:30 p.m.

“Anoka American Legion baseball brings players, families and friends to Castle Field. Players enjoy getting together with their former teammates to revive old memories, create new ones and more importantly play a game they all love,” said Steve Nelson, Park & Recreation Advisory Board Chairperson. Admission to the game is free and concessions will be available. Former Anoka Legion ballplayers are encouraged to join the fun. The celebration continues Monday, July 4, at the annual Ice Cream Social. The Anoka Kiwanis, City Council members and individual volunteers will be scooping, pouring and serving root beer floats from noon until 3:00 p.m. at George Green Park, 1498 6th Avenue. Enjoy the sounds of

the North Suburban Concert Band as they perform from the band shell. Try our lawn games, too. Bring your picnic basket, blankets, lawn chairs and family and friends for a relaxing afternoon in one of Anoka’s many beautiful parks. Thank you to Two Scoops and Killebrew Root Beer for sponsoring the root beer floats; all monetary donations received for the root beer floats will be donated to ACBC Food Shelf in Anoka. Anoka’s Waste Reduction & Recycling Board (WRRB) is also pleased to provide compostable plastic cups, straws and spoons for the floats. Compost receptacles will be scattered throughout the park to collect all of the organic materials, including picnic food scraps and used paper products. Recycling

receptacles will also be available for aluminum cans, plastic bottles and jars. The Anoka County Historical Society will also have a table at the social displaying patriotic information, details on upcoming events and historical Fourth of July photos. Feel free to share with them your stories and photos about past Fourth of July fun in Anoka County. Remember, George Green Park is adjacent to the Anoka Aquatic Center, which will be open from noon until 7:00 p.m. Continue celebrating the holiday by cooling off in the pool. Anoka looks forward to celebrating with the community. For more information about these events, please visit www. ci.anoka.mn.us or call 763-576-2725.

These community-minded homeowners on Lake George’s west side joined forces to build four “high rise” 4-foot by 4-foot gardens for their neighbors who live at The Oaks of Lake George, a senior community for ages 55 and over. Their heartfelt efforts were greatly appreciated. Caption by Binie Bertils, Photo by Diane Goodwin, The Oaks Residents

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I Hate When That Happens

Randy Gerdin ASE certified technician, Gerdin Auto & Tire Owner

It’s Crazy About a year ago, I was at my son’s graduation ceremony from the University of Minnesota Master of Business Administration program. The keynote speaker was John Stumpf, chief executive officer at Wells Fargo. He spoke about technology and future innovations and made a statement that has stuck with me. “We are in the first five minutes of a yearlong technological revolution.” The first five minutes? That is crazy.

I stopped and looked back at the advancements in the automotive repair world in the last year. Even here at our small, independent repair shop in St. Francis, we have had some major changes, mostly due to technology. We now track our tow trucks on computers and apps on our phones. We can tell where our trucks are, where they have been, how long they’ve stopped at a scene and even how fast they’ve traveled. All of our technicians now have iPads to scan in the vehicles they are repairing.

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They also use them to perform inspections, take photos, make notes and access technical information for diagnostics. When complete, they send the information to our service advisors and we can pull it up on our computers. We then use this information to make estimates for necessary services and repairs. This information is saved in the cloud, so we can reference previous visits and send this information to a client, if needed. It’s crazy. These days, it seems that a lot of people are not, for whatever reason, available to take a phone call. Texting has become a major way for us to communicate with customers. It starts out with an opt-in text. By law, a business cannot text you without approval, so we ask permission first. Many of our clients prefer this method of communication. However, we sometimes need to speak directly to customers due to the complexity of the repair and the costs associated with it. Yesterday, we had four different vehicles in that needed new computers. We

Wednesday July 13 5:30-8:30 p.m. Come enjoy the Circus, a fundraiser for Marsha Van Denburgh for Anoka County Commissioner District 1.

have the equipment needed to handle most of them; however, there was an older vehicle that required a power train control module. I called many places and no one could provide one. I ended up taking photos of the vehicle identification number and the part numbers on the module itself and sent a text to a company in Florida. They had a unit they could program and send to us and we could send the old part back. It will save the client about $400 versus buying a new one from the dealer. We recently had a pickup brought in that had made a strange noise going down the road. After some research, we found a manufacturer’s bulletin describing the problem and informing us that a new program installation

Free Dollars Into Sense Class Julie Blomquist

University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County

The University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County will present a free Dollars into Sense class on Thursday, July 14, Wednesday, August 10 and Thursday, September 8 at 10:00-11:30 a.m. at the Anoka County Human Services Center, 1201 89th Avenue NW, Blaine. Class will cover tracking expenses, putting together a spending plan, goal setting, credit and where to get additional help/ resources. To register, call University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County at 763-755-1280 at least three days prior to the class.

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✓ Vote! Van Denburgh The foregoing is prepared and paid for by Volunteers for Van Denburgh, 653 Marshall Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104. It does not necessarily represent the views of ISD 15 or the publishers of The Courier. ISD 15 and publishers make no guarantees to the truthfulness or accuracy of the statements made herein.

in the vehicle’s computer was the fix. We flashed the computer and the noise was gone. Somehow the running of the engine caused a harmonic vibration in the exhaust system causing this strange noise. It’s crazy. Currently we are in the midst of working on a vehicle that runs very poorly once or twice per day. We have put about 60 miles on it and it acted up once. The vehicle’s computer is sending erroneous codes, so we have little information. It’s crazy. We have much better diagnostic test equipment, but somehow I think the manufacturers are getting ahead of their own vehicles. It’s crazy. I hate when that happens.

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For rally information, call Dick Henz at 763-753-1092. The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Financial Focus

Blake Cheeley Edward Jones Financial Advisor

Take steps to prevent identity theft Identity theft is a big problem. How big? Consider this: In 2015, about 13 million Americans were victimized, with a total fraud amount of $15 billion, according to Javelin Strategy & Research. That’s a lot of victims and a lot of money. How can you protect yourself from becoming a statistic? Here are a few suggestions: Secure your Social Security number Identity thieves eagerly seek Social Security numbers — so don’t give out yours to anyone who asks for it. In fact, as a general rule, be reluctant to give it out at all. Always ask whomever you’re dealing with if he or she will accept another form of identification, or at the

very least will take just the last four digits of your number. Never carry your Social Security card with you. Shred credit card offers and bank statements If you’re not going to apply for the credit cards offered to you, shred the offers. Identity thieves have been known to go through garbage, fill out credit card offers and take advantage of them. At the same time, shred your bank and brokerage statements—and any other statement containing personal or financial information. Study your credit card bills and checking account statements Question any credit card charge or checking account activity you don’t recognize as your own.

Don’t give out your credit card number unless you’re initiating a purchase Many of us shop online. As long as you’re dealing with a reputable merchant who uses a secure site—i.e., one that has “https” in the web address—you should be fairly confident that your credit card information will be protected. Never give out your credit card number to people or businesses who, unsolicited, try to sell you something over the phone or internet. Protect your passwords Do you use a password to log onto your computer? If so, don’t share it with anyone, outside perhaps your most trusted family members. Also use a strong password—one that doesn’t contain your real name or even a complete

4-H Tech Wizards coming to Mississippi Library Jy Xiong

University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County

Starting Wednesday, August 3 a 4-H Tech Wizards group will be meeting at the Mississippi Library and is open to all interested youth in grades five through eight. Sessions will be from 4-5:30 p.m. and involve STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) related activities. Tech Wizards is a FREE program where kids can learn more about technology, gain leadership and life skills and meet in small groups with a mentor. This group is driven by what youth would like to do and can range from starting a First Tech Challenge Robotics

group to exploring healthy eating and living. What you decide is what we will end up doing! We will meet weekly and year-round. A snack will be provided. No transportation is provided. Beginning Wednesday,

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records of your credit history. If someone has misused your personal or financial information, contact one of the companies and ask for an initial fraud alert on your credit report. A fraud alert is free, but you must provide proof of your identity. The company you call must tell the other companies about your alert. (For more information on placing a fraud alert, visit the website of any of the three companies.) You can help preserve your good name from those who want to misuse it—so, stay vigilant. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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August 3, 4:00-5:30 p.m. The Mississippi Library is located at 410 Mississippi Street NE in Fridley. Interested youth should contact Jy Xiong at xion0264@ umn.edu, call 763-755-1280 or simply show up to one of our sessions! For more information check us out on the Anoka County 4-H website: http://z.umn. edu/anokatechwizards.

word that could be used to identify you. It doesn’t hurt to periodically change your password, whether it’s for your computer logon or for entry to any of your financial or consumer accounts. Even after taking these steps, you could still run into identity theft. That’s why you need to watch for certain signs, such as the arrival of unexpected credit cards or account statements, denials of credit for no clear reason or calls or letters regarding purchases you didn’t make. If any of these things happen to you, you may want to place a “fraud alert” on your credit reports and review them carefully. Three national credit-reporting companies—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—keep

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Letter to the Editor

Greetings From The Capitol

Dear Editor, I enjoy reading The Courier for the variety of local content. Jamie Schurbon’s piece on local watershed management in the June issue got my attention. I’m an avid angler who’s not impressed with current clean water management programs on local lakes. For several years, we’ve been applying chemicals, numerous times throughout the summer to eradicate unwanted vegetation. Unfortunately, the process kills off native vegetation also and appears to have a negative impact on the quality of the fishery. Trust me. Take away the weeds and you have no natural filtration for a healthy ecosystem. So, I’ll ask the question… is the plan for the future to remove pollutants to improve water quality or for recreational purposes? Mark Fisher, ISD 15 resident

Dear Editor, To St. Francis True Value Hardware staff, Lions Club representatives, sponsors and others: Congratulations on the great job of staging the Garage Logic live radio broadcast on June 3. As the former athletic/activities director for St. Francis High School, I am well aware of the tremendous amount of planning, work and effort it takes to prepare

and host a major event. The publicity the broadcast gave the St. Francis area as well as St. Francis Pioneer Days was well deserved for our growing community. Some of my friends throughout the metro area and state listened and thoroughly enjoyed the interviews and stories told regarding our community. Following the broadcast, which was held at St. Francis True Value Hardware, the production staff from KSTP 1500 radio, including Joe Soucheray, were very thankful for the hospitality and support from everyone, including the participation from the audience during the ongoing rain. You should be proud of your efforts in making the Garage Logic broadcast a first-class event. Ron Larson, ISD 15 resident

Dear Editor, Pioneer Days are behind us and the roundabouts are ahead of us. Road construction in St. Francis this summer will be an inconvenience for most of the community. However, let it be the local businesses that become the heroes and lend a helping hand to people navigating through our town. Tim Holen, Owner St. Francis True Value Hardware

Letter to the Editor Policy The Courier reserves the right to reject any letter submitted and edit letters for clarity, length and grammar. Be timely—visit www. the-courier.org for deadline information. Include contact information—include your full name, title (optional), city and daytime phone number. Unsigned letters or those submitted without a phone number will not be considered. Be clear & concise—make one main point in 200 words or less.

Be accurate—letters that are factually inaccurate will not be printed. Be considerate—only one letter per author every 60 days. Regular contributors should submit letters on varied subjects. Letters by the same author that reiterate opinions previously expressed June not be published. Writers must either live within District 15 or be writing about an issue specific to The Courier coverage area. Submissions—letters can be sent by email to news@isd15.org, by U.S.

mail to The Courier, 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis, MN 55070, or by fax to 763-753-4693. Other—thank-you letters that relate to a public event, organization or official are not considered letters to the editor. Contact the editor regarding submitting that information. Viewpoints expressed in a letter to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of Independent School District 15 or The Courier staff.

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Tom Hackbarth State rep. District 31B

Recapping the 2016 session The 2016 session is now in the books and it can be viewed as a mixture of successes and legislation that didn’t quite make it over the finish line. House members passed several major bills at the end of the 2016 session, including packages related to taxes, transportation/ bonding and a supplemental budget bill. This year’s supplemental budget bill passed the House 95-39 and was enacted by the governor. It includes a couple of notable tax-related provisions. First, the state will no longer levy an income tax on veterans’ pension benefits. This is a significant change to recognize the sacrifice veterans have made. Also, people who have a stillborn birth will now get a state tax credit of $2,000. Children that die shortly after birth are currently eligible for the federal dependent tax deduction, but now there will be state consideration for stillbirths. The omnibus tax bill also passed the House with wide, bipartisan support, 123-10. It is said to be the most bipartisan tax bill in 30 years, but the governor vetoed it. He cited a one-word error in the bill that could have unintended consequences. There has been much debate over whether vetoing the bill was necessary or if a letter of clarification from legislative leaders would suffice, as has been done in the past on numerous occasions. That discussion is moot now, because the 14-day window for the governor to sign the tax bill into law closed, subjecting it to what is known as a “pocket veto.” More than $800 million in tax relief over the next three years

was included in the bill which was vetoed. Some of the top tax reductions include $150 million by expanding the working family tax credit, $146 million in property tax relief for small businesses and $110 million in tax relief for student loans. The bonding bill, with numerous transportation provisions, was derailed when a light-rail train provision was inserted by the Senate Democrats in the last few minutes of the session. House Republicans and Democrats together provided final passage of the bill 91-39. It was expected the Senate also would provide final approval and send it to the governor for enactment. Instead, the Senate added funding for light rail train expansion in the southwest metro to the bill a matter of minutes before the constitutional deadline for passage and as the House adjourned. It meant that the amounts of money appropriated for transportation in the House and Senate bills were different and time had run out before the language could be reconciled. It doomed the bill. There has been talk about the governor calling a special session to re-pass the tax bill and work out the differences on bonding/ transportation. The key sticking point continues to surround light rail train funding. Where the Senate added light rail, the bill the House approved focused on roads and bridges. Now, the governor either calls a special session, or bonding and transportation will have to wait until the Legislature reconvenes in January. Legislators were meeting at the Capitol to see if agreements can be reached, but no real breakthroughs had been made as of this column’s deadline.

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The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

School Board Highlights School Board Highlights

May 23, 2016

Heidi Anderson

Staff writer

Directors Scott Schwarz and Suzanne Erkel absent Metro ECSU presentation Metropolitan Educational Cooperative Service Unit (Metro ECSU) Executive Director Julie Frame and Executive Committee member Dave Anderson provided the Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) School Board with information on its programs and services. According to their website, Metro ECSU provides schools and government agencies with services at a reduced cost. ISD 15 is a member district of Metro ECSU and participates in programs related to special education, environmental health and safety and ongoing training for principals. Students from ISD 15 have also attended some of Metro ECSU’s Success Beyond the Classroom programs, such as Knowledge Bowl and STEMLink. Long Term Facilities and Maintenance Revenue 10-Year plan and funding Mike Piper of ICS Consulting, Inc. presented the proposed work to be completed in the Long Term Facilities and Maintenance Revenue 10-Year plan. Piper said that a preliminary plan has been created and submitted to the state. There is a timeline to begin this work in the summer of 2017. The hope is to have the design work completed by this September in order to secure a bid. Mike Hoheisel of Baird discussed the funding information for the plan. According to Hoheisel, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has rules on what projects districts can and cannot borrow money for. Most of the time, a district can only borrow funds for projects that will be completed within the next three years and that 85 percent of the funds will be spent on that project. Crossroads School & Vocational Center site report Crossroads School & Vocational Center (CSVC) Principal Jay Powell provided an update on programming

at CSVC and Transition 15. Powell said that CSVC served 114 students during the 201516 school year, with students staying for an average of 72 days. Students from Bar None Residential Treatment stayed for the average of 64 days in 2015-16, which is higher than an average of 45 days during the 2014-15 school year. CSVC students and staff participated in an awards night and the annual plant sale. A video with highlights of the 2015-16 school year at CSVC can be found on the school’s page of the district website, www. isd15.org. Superintendent’s Report Superintendent Troy Ferguson contacted the Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA) regarding the role of school board members serving on Site Management Councils (SMC). MSBA recommends that school board members attend SMC meetings only to observe and not to vote or give feedback and make recommendations. Ferguson will consult with the principals of ISD 15 schools on their recommendation of how to proceed. The ISD 15 American Indian Education Program received a Title VII grant for $29,263. Some of these funds will be used toward the salary of an education assistant. Ferguson, along with ISD 15 staff, attended ALICE (alert, lockdown, inform, counter, evacuate) training. Staff will continue to work over the summer on an improved emergency response plan and how to roll it out to the community. Ferguson asked the School Board for their thoughts on no longer having the Cabinet +3 meetings at various locations, but only at ISD 15 Central Services Center. There have been issues with having the

necessary technology for the meetings at the schools and there is very low community turnout. School Board members agreed that it is easier to hold the meetings at one location.

School Board Highlights

June 13, 2016

Heidi Anderson

Staff writer

Director Scott Schwarz absent St. Francis Chemical Health update St. Francis High School (SFHS) chemical health counselor Eve Kaldahl provided the Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) School Board with an update on her work during the 201516 school year. Kaldahl said she facilitated four support groups throughout the year; one was a concerned person group and three were depression and anxiety groups. She also met with highrisk students individually, conducted presentations with all ninth-grade classes, coordinated programming with St. Francis Community Drug Awareness and helped organize the mock car crash demonstration. Kaldahl said her goals for the next school year are to continue support groups and to be involved with Saints Academy. Q Comp review report Student Performance Improvement Initiatives Coordinator Linda Ericson presented a report regarding the Q Comp (Quality Compensation) program. Ericson said that licensed staff can take on various leadership roles such as mentors, peer leaders and specialists. Licensed staff also participates in job embedded

development, such as taking Teacher Academy courses, participating in study groups or taking on individual projects. Site teams are also working in professional learning communities (PLCs) to identify methods that work well with student’s learning styles. Teachers also participate in three observations per year, along with meetings with their evaluator on strategies to improve or test out in the classroom. In the past year, most licensed staff participated in Teacher Academy courses. A survey showed that more staff viewed time spent in PLCs as beneficial compared to last year. Ericson said in the next year, staff plans to work on strengthening coaching strategies by participating in a book study group and Ericson will take a course on cognitive coaching strategies. Long-Term Facilities and Maintenance Revenue Bonding Matt Rantapaa of BAIRD presented the Board with a recap of the outstanding debt, estimated levy and health and safety levy associated with the Long-Term Facilities and Maintenance (LTFM) project. In terms of outstanding debt, there are three bond issues; two are alternative facilities bonds from 2010 and the other is a 2007 voter approved bond, which was refunded in 2015. The decrease in debt from 2017 to 2018 will be about $3.3 million and the decrease from 2018 to 2019 will be around $1.6 million. For the estimated LTFM levy, the amount of money the district receives per pupil will increase each year, and will then level out to $380 per pupil

School Board Members Marsha Van Denburgh, Chairwoman 763-753-6653 Janet Hunt, Vice Chairwoman 763-221-5341

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Suzanne Erkel, Director 763-413-1195 David Roberts, Director 763-843-0013 Scott Schwarz, Director 763-898-6985 Email: schoolboard@isd15.org

in 2018. For the health and safety portion of the LTFM levy, if the district has qualifying projects greater than $100,000, the district can go beyond the revenue garnered in the LTFM levy. Projects that fall into the health and safety levy could be those concerning indoor air quality or heating, ventilating and air conditioning units. If the district were to move forward with LTFM borrowing, the LTFM levy would remain the same based on LTFM projects that are already determined. Rantapaa also showed a graph showing the outcome if the district were to pursue a spring 2017 school building bond referendum for items outside of the LTFM levy. Superintendent Troy Ferguson said that this does not mean the district is going to hold a referendum, this is just a hypothetical scenario. The Board later approved the action items on the updated Long-Term Facilities and Maintenance Review 10Year Plan and the General Obligation Facility and Maintenance Bonds. Northeast Metro 916 ISD 15 School Board Director and representative to the Northeast Metro Intermediate School District 916 (Northeast Metro 916) School Board, Suzanne Erkel said that the Northeast Metro 916 Board approved their budget for the 2016-17 school year and raised the cost of some services, through member districts like ISD 15 will see no change in the cost of tuition. The Board later approved the Northeast Continued Page 26

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, July 25 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 8 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 22 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Live streaming and video archives of school board meetings are available at www.isd15.org/sbvideo 25

From Page 26

School Board Highlights

Metro 916 Long-Term Facilities and Maintenance Plan. There will be an additional tax of fifty cents to one dollar per household for ISD 15 residents. School Board members and Site Management Councils Superintendent Ferguson informed the School Board that ISD 15 principals prefer that school board members attend Site Management Council (SMC) meetings as observers only. Observers can still attend meetings and take notes, but they should not ask questions or give feedback. If Board members decide to attend as participants, the district would need to make sure posts for the meetings followed open meeting laws. After discussion, the Board decided that board members will not attend SMC meetings, but rather just continue to receive the minutes following the meeting. 2016-17 Strategic Plan Result Statement recommendations Superintendent Ferguson presented the Board with the Strategic Plan 201617 Result Statements recommendations. The results and recommendations came from a meeting of the Strategic Plan’s core planning team April 29. The district will continue to focus on the result statements of, “Every ISD 15 employee understands the strategic plan,” “ISD 15 has a recognizable and consistent brand,” and “ISD 15 uses established protocols to support transparent communication to foster

trust among all ISD 15 stakeholders.” New result statements chosen for focus in 2016-17 include, “ISD 15 employees understand their role, purpose and value in achieving the mission and mission outcomes” and “A framework is adopted by ISD 15 to support continuous improvement toward aligning all programs and services with the mission.” Ferguson reminded the Board that although a result statement is not singled out, that does not mean that work and progress will not occur. Superintendent’s Report Superintendent Ferguson discussed two action items regarding the approval of two positions. First was the reinstatement of the administrative assistant to the superintendent. This position was eliminated for the 201516 fiscal year with understanding that the receptionist at Central Services Center would provide support to the superintendent and school board throughout the year. The position was budgeted for when planning for the 2016-17 fiscal year. The second position is a new support position for Human Resources and Business Services. Evaluation showed that both departments are not adequately staffed. Ferguson said this position will reinstate a more appropriate staffing level. The Board later unanimously approved both positions. Dr. Kim Gibbons, Associate Director of the Center for Applied Research

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She is willing to present her report to the Board at a meeting this summer. A link to Independent School District 15 School Board minutes can be found under the School Board tab at www. isd15.org.

Julie Kellerman’s kindergartners at Cedar Creek Community School (CCCS) recently started using Gaiam Kids Stay-N-Play Balance Balls as chairs at their tables. The CCCS Parent Teacher Organization purchased them for the classroom. Some of the many benefits students and teachers see through the use of these balls are that they encourage students to learn and practice healthy posture while benefiting from active sitting, and they increase focus by keeping the body active and the mind engaged simultaneously. Julie Kellerman, CCCS Kindergarten Teacher

From Page 12

Student Updates

Lorri Emerson, Psychology Patrick Van Landschoot, General Studies (Undecided) Anthony Bloch, Computer Engineering Dakota Downs, Mechanical Engineering Samuel Burville, son of Brian and Claudia Burville of East Bethel, was named to the 2016 spring semester dean’s list at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. The following local individuals were among the 587 students to graduate with bachelor of arts degrees from Gustavus Adolphus College during the school’s annual commencement exercises Sunday, May 29: Cedar Tanner Aho, Health Fitness East Bethel Kelsie Close, History Monica Johnson, Biochem and Molecular Biology, Biology The University of Minnesota Duluth has announced its Dean’s List for Spring Semester 2016. Cedar Nicole Borstner, Health Care Management Callie C. Chester, Marketing Alexandra L. Cole, Teaching Social Studies Ann E. Hunt, Geological Sciences and Mathematics

Brandon Pittman, Mechanical Engineering East Bethel Benjamin C. Monnier, Management Info Systems Marlys F. Pilarski, Industrial Engineering Oak Grove Nickolas C. Anderson, Mechanical Engineering Alexander D. Boser, Finance Andrew Boser, Biology Isaac D. Lindahl, Electrical Engineering St. Francis Nicole A. Lunberg, Exercise Science Savhanna Berger, daughter of Rebecca and Jacob Berger of St. Francis, was named to the second semester, 2015-16 Dean’s List at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Ashley Vanden Eykel received a bachelor of science in dietetics from University of Wisconsin-Stout. The University of Wisconsin-River Falls announced its Dean’s List for the 2016 spring semester. Cedar Kalley Christopherson, Animal Science Laura Peterson, Comm Sciences and Disorders Bryce Podgorsek, Psychology St. Francis Laura Vogel, Fine Arts

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and Educational Improvement at the University of Minnesota completed a report on the district’s Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and presented her findings to the education professional learning community and Linda Ericson of the Office of Teaching and Learning.

763-413-3445 The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Sports & Outdoors St. Francis High School track & field athletes compete at state meet Kathleen miller

Staff writer

The 2016 Minnesota AA State Track & Field Meet is now in the record books. The meet took place at Hamline University in St. Paul June 10-11. St. Francis High School was well represented. Congratulations to our student athletes for all they have accomplished. Junior Amanda Anderson garnered first place and is the state champion in discus, with a new season personal record of 155-9 in discus. Anderson also competed in shot put and placed 14th with a toss of 36-2¼. Junior Genuine Matthews missed qualifying for finals in the 100-meter dash by .06 seconds, but placed 13th with a time of 10.95 seconds. He also completed in the 400m dash, where he placed second with a time of 48.65. Junior Tommy Schwieger earned an AllState award, placing 9th in triple jump, with a measurement of 43-8½. Freshman Eli Hylen competed in the high jump and had a very respectable finish—17th place with a jump of 5-10. Hopefully, these athletes will again participate in track & field for St. Francis High School next year. St. Francis High School freshman Eli Hylen competed in the high jump. He finished in a tie for seventeenth place with a jump of 5 feet 10 inches. Photo by al angell

St. Francis High School junior Genuine Matthews competed in the 100-meter dash, where he placed thirteenth with a time of 10.95 seconds and the 400, where he placed second with a time of 48.65. Photo by al angell

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St. Francis High School junior Amanda Anderson placed first in the discus with a season and personal best toss of 155-9. She also competed in the shot put and placed 14th with a toss of 36-2¼. photo by al angell The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

763-753-4993 St. Francis High School junior Tommy Schwieger placed ninth in the triple jump with a jump of 43-8½. photo by al angell

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St. Francis teen named to 2016 Olympic team, heading to Rio this summer

Softball team recognizes St. Francis High School graduates Jeremy Schauer

Minnesota Smoke head coach

Pictured (L-R) Alisa Kano, Kiana Eide, Natalie McGiffert, Kristen Shaldybin and Monica Rokhman qualified for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in group rhythmic gymnastics. Eide (17), daughter of Troy and Lolita Eide of St. Francis, is the youngest member of the team. The Eide family has made many sacrifices to support Kiana in the pursuit of her dream. PHOTO from USA Gymnastics Craig Bohnert

Team USA

At the conclusion of the 2016 USA Gymnastics Championships in Providence, Rhode Island, the five women who will represent the United States in rhythmic gymnastics group competition at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games were announced. Named to their first Olympic team are Kiana Eide (St. Francis), Alisa Kano, Natalie McGiffert, Monica Rokhman and Kristen Shaldybin. Monica’s twin sister Jennifer Rokhman has been named the replacement athlete to the squad. The six women have enjoyed unprecedented success as a group for the past two seasons. Last year they gave the United States its first earned Olympic spot in rhythmic group competition with a 13th-place finish at the 2015 world championships in Stuttgart, Germany, which qualified Team USA as the highest-placed country outside of Asia and Europe. This will be the first time in 20 years the United States sends a group to the Olympics; a group was sent to the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games, obtaining a quota spot as the host nation.

The group’s performance was coupled with a strong showing at the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games, where they won gold in six clubs and two hoops for Team USA’s first rhythmic group gold at the Pan American Games, as well as silvers in the all-around and five ribbons finals. Eide has had an incredible three years with Team USA Rhythmic Gymnastics group. At the same time, the Eide family faced some difficult decisions three years ago. She was called up to work out with the senior national group, which trains in Deerfield, Illinois. This required her and her father, Troy Eide, to move from St. Francis, leaving family and friends behind, for the possibility of making the team. Her mother, Lolita, and older sister, Celine, remained in St. Francis. The family owns a restaurant in St. Francis, Hong Kong Delight. The move to Illinois has been and continues to be difficult, financially and emotionally, for the family. To help with costs, a GoFundMe page has been established for the Eide family at www.gofundme.com/eidefamilyolympics.

16th Annual St. Francis Hockey

Ice Breaker Cup Golf Event

Minnesota Smoke Fastpitch would like to recognize St. Francis High School class of 2016 graduates Bobbijean Miller and Gabby Hoglund. Both Miller and Hoglund played a huge role in the inaugural season of the team, Minnesota Smoke. These two ladies were voted captains by their teammates, not only for their leadership abilities on the field, but for the relationships built off the field. This quickly went from being a team to a family. Both young ladies will not only be moving onto college to continue their education, they will both be playing softball as well. Miller will cross the border to utilize her academic scholarships at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. She will major in secondary education and will no doubt be a key contributor for the Yellowjacket softball team next season. Hoglund is on her way to the College of St. Mary in Omaha, Nebraska. She will be attending on both an academic and athletic scholarship to play softball while majoring in occupational therapy. The Minnesota Smoke would like to thank both of these young ladies for all of their sacrifice, dedication and passion for the game. We wish them the best of luck moving forward and will be cheering them on along the way.

Noon-1:00 p.m. Check-In 1:30 p.m. Scramble Shotgun Start Awards ceremony and dinner immediately following golf.

Saturday, August 6

Hidden Haven, 20520 NE Polk Street, East Bethel

Fee for golf event: $95 per adult player $75 per student player (ages 8-22)

Your day on the golf course will help outfit St. Francis hockey players for the upcoming season. Following the golf event experience the unity of St. Francis hockey at the dinner.

Fee includes: 18 holes of golf, golf cart, event shirt, dinner and a chance to win many great prizes.

The golf event is the joint effort of the boys and girls St. Francis High School and youth hockey teams and their families. It’s the Ice Breaker that is needed for a fun and exciting hockey season.

4-5 players per group, 2 golf carts per group, 1 adult player per group (recommended with youth under 15). Limited to 160 participants.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit…The Bill Johnson/ Roger Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund.

For more information or to register, please call: Brad Kaehler 612-599-6395 or Karen Hartstrom 763-300-2583.

Ask about sponsoring the event.

Please register before July 25.

Minnesota Smoke fastpitch softball players (L-R) Bobbijean Miller and Gabby Hoglund graduated from St. Francis High School in June. Both have plans to attend college and play college fastpitch softball in the fall. Submitted Photo

Benefit: DAV Golf Tourney

A golf tournament to support Disabled American VeteransAnoka Chapter 39 will be held Thursday, July 14 with a 12:30 p.m. start time. The tournament will be held at The Refuge Golf Club in Oak Grove. For more information, visit https://squareup.com/store/dav golf-tournament. For more information, contact Leo Luskey or Erin McLean at 763-767-9710. The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

St. Francis 10AA wins St. Francis summer tournaments

Minnesota Schoolboys wrestling team takes home championship

Kevin Lamson

Community member

The St. Francis 10AA traveling baseball team took first place in the St. Francis Summer Tournament June 4 and 5. This is the first time that a St. Francis traveling team has won the tournament since it began in 2005. The team is made up of twelve players, ages eight to ten, from the area. The Saints beat teams from Blaine, Thunder Bay and Chisago Lakes to make it to the championship game. The team won the hard-fought championship game against a tough Thunder Bay team in the bottom of the sixth inning on a two out rally to win 6-5. This is the second consecutive tournament that the team has made the championship game and they qualified for the 10AA State Tournament July 8-9. Congratulations to the players and coaches. The Minnesota Schoolboy Duals Team participated in the National Duals Tournament held in Indianapolis. The team consisted of 53 of the most talented wrestlers from the state of Minnesota. Representing St. Francis was Joey Lipinski (pictured third row, fifth from left). submitted photo Mike Thorn

Minnesota Schoolboys coach

The St. Francis 10AA traveling baseball team took home the championship from the St. Francis Summer Tournament June 4 and 5. Photo submitted by Laura Lamson, Frogpad Studios

Congratulations to St. Francis High School graduate Maggie Ewen for her performance at the 2016 NCAA Division 1 Track & Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Ewen, representing Arizona State University (ASU), garnered All-American honors in both the hammer and discus throw, finishing 5th and 8th respectively. She was also named to the second team All-American in the shot put. She is a red-shirt sophomore at ASU studying health and wellness and will compete in the USA Track & Field Olympic trials the first weekend in July in the hammer and discus events. Submitted photo by Kristi Ewen

Recently, the Minnesota Schoolboy Duals Team participated in the National Duals Tournament, held in Indianapolis. The team consisted of 53 of the most talented wrestlers from all over the state of Minnesota. The wrestlers were selected based on their performance at the Minnesota and national wrestling tournaments held earlier this year. Wrestlers representing the state were from towns as far away as Greenbush, Byron, Bemidji, Rochester and St. Francis, to mention a few. All team members attended a camp in St. Michael the weekend of June 4-5, with instructors who were former Olympic Champions and All Americans. The team of fifty-three wrestlers and ten coaches departed for Indianapolis June 7. The National Schoolboy Tournament consists of two different events spread out over four days. On June 9 and 10, the Greco-Roman competition was held, which included 33 teams representing states all over country. On June 11 and June 12, the

Freestyle competition is held, which consisted of 35 teams in total. The Greco-Roman tournament was held on the first two days of competition. Team Minnesota competed against teams from Indiana, Kansas, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Washington, Colorado, Texas, Virginia, Utah, Oklahoma, New York and Arizona. After two days of hard wrestling, Team Minnesota came out on top by defeating Colorado in the championship with a pin in the final match of the dual to secure a two-point victory. The second event of the tournament was the Freestyle competition. Team Minnesota competed against Kentucky, Michigan, Illinois, Washington, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Ohio, Kansas, New Jersey, Maryland, Florida, Utah and Indiana. For the second time in the same week, Team Minnesota was crowned National Champions, this time by dominating an excellent Illinois team by the final score of 52-23. Over the course of the weekend most of the wrestlers racked up between 10 and 20 matches in both styles of wrestling.

North Metro Soccer Association

Player Identification for Fall 2016 and Spring 2017 Teams

Save the Dates!

Birth Years 2001-2008 Tryouts July 23-28

See NMSA website for age specific dates/times. Online registration is now open. A $60 non-refundable tryout fee is required at time of online registration. That fee will be applied to the Spring 2017 registration fee. There will be an $85 non-refundable tryout fee for onsite registration. Location: National Sports Center in Blaine

Please visit the NMSA website for more information,

www.northmetrosoccer.org

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Saints Online student pursues figure skating dream before I start my off-ice warm up.” Gibson skates for two hours before

Heidi Anderson

Staff Writer

Saints Online student Kylie Gibson, East Bethel, recently passed the Senior Moves in the Field test with U.S. Figure Skating, which gives her the title of “U.S. Figure Skating gold medalist,” according to U. S. Figure Skating President Samuel Auxier. This test is the most advanced of the Moves in the Field category. According to the U.S. Figure Skating website, the Moves in the Field are a series of tests that “help develop all basic fundamental edges and turns while emphasizing edge quality, extension, quickness and power.” Gibson, who will be a junior in the fall, has been skating for the past seven years. She has competed across the Upper Midwest at various events in Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois and elsewhere. Gibson occasionally travels to Chicago to work on her skills and spends her summers training in Sun Valley, Idaho. According to Gibson, she has a certain routine that she performs in competitions, similar to those viewers see on television. Competitions are Gibson’s favorite part about skating. “I love performing in front of people and showing what I can do under pressure,” Gibson said. “Skating has afforded me many opportunities such as skating in the Stars on Ice show for the past three years and participating in the opening and award ceremonies for the 2016 U.S. National Championships at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul.” Between practices, competitions and travel, Gibson keeps a very busy schedule. “Normally my day starts with my parents dropping me off at the rink around 5:45 a.m.,” Gibson said. “I then work on homework for a few hours

could skate during the day when there are very few people on the ice,” Gibson said. “Classes have been challenging, but the amazing help of Principal Scott Manni, I made it through.” After passing the Senior Moves in the field test, Gibson will now focus on her free skate tests that will determine the level at which she will compete. She looks forward to another competition season and more traveling.

The St. Francis 10U B girls fastpitch softball team celebrated a first place victory in the silver bracket June 4 in Zimmerman. The team is made up of third, fourth and fifth-grade students from around the Independent School District 15 area. These girls played a great tournament by winning four out of five games and earning a berth to nationals July 28– 31 in Bloomington. The girls continue to develop their softball skills and improve with every game they play. They are having a great season. Figure skater Kylie Gibson enrolled in Saints Online in order to continue her education and allow for training and competitions. Gibson will be a high school junior this fall. Submitted photo by David Bank Studio

North Metro Soccer Association

Fall 2016 Recreational Soccer Registration

Online Registration now open Go to northmetrosoccer.org click Registration.

Grades: PreK-10th Cost: Early registration June 20 through July 16 = $90 July 17 through July 24 = $115 • Rec Playing Nights: PreK-Kindergarten (Co-ed) Tuesday Grades 1 & 2 Boys Monday/Girls Tuesday Rec Extra will include 6 Fridays Grades 3 & 4 Boys Monday/Girls Tuesday Grades 5-7 Boys Thursday/Girls Thursday Mini Metros (ages 3-4) will also be offered. Grades 8-10 (Co-ed) See website for details. Tuesday Games played on Saturdays for all ages. • Practices start the week of August 29 and games begin Saturday, September 10. Season ends Saturday, October 15 with the Fall Jamboree. Team T-shirt and socks are provided. • Volunteer for positive youth development through soccer by checking the volunteer box during registration. 30

her lunch break, where she can squeeze in more homework. She skates at a different rink in the afternoon and finishes her schoolwork in the evening. By enrolling in Saints Online, an academic option offered at Independent School District 15, Gibson is able to keep up with her studies while also competing at a high level in figure skating. “I chose Saints Online because it allowed for more flexibility so that I

Submitted Photo by Kati Berwald, parent

Visit Lake George Regional Park this summer The 270 acre Lake George Regional Park is very popular with families and young adults. There are seven picnic pavilions available for rental. Trails offer access to woodland, lake and wetland areas. A unique partnership with the YMCA offers a day camp opportunity for the community. For more information about Lake George Regional Park and other Anoka County parks, visit https://www.anokacounty.us.

North Metro Soccer Association

Fall 2016 Competitive Soccer Registration Online Registration • July 26 through August 2 Go to northmetrosoccer.org click Registration. Birth Years 2002-2008 • Fall 2016 teams will be formed from player identification which will be held July 23-28. Registration information will be available on the NMSA website in July with instructions on how to register for Fall teams. • The competitive registration fee does not include the cost of the uniform. Players who do not currently have a Spring 2016 competitive uniform must purchase one. The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Meetings, Benefits & Events School bus drivers needed

Chamber of Commerce St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce—On July 13 meet the new St. Francis police chief at St. Francis Public Works, 11:30 a.m.1:00 p.m. The next Board of Directors meeting is July 20, 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street. Meetings are open to all. Visit stfrancischamber.org for more info or call 763-438-5163.

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 is required; if applicant does not have Class B license, the Transportation Department will provide PAID training. A six 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.

North 65 Chamber of Commerce meeting will not have a July meeting. For more information, visit www.north65chamber.com. East Bethel Chamber of Commerce will hold its 3rd annual Chamber Golf Tournament, Friday, July 15, 11:00 a.m. at Viking Meadows Golf Course. Pre-registration is preferred. For more information, visit www.eastbethelchamber.com.

School District ISD 15 SCHOOL Board Meetings: July 25 and August 8 —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.

Ham Lake Area Chamber of Commerce business meeting will be July 13, 11:30 a.m. at The Willows, 845 Bunker Lake Blvd. NE, Ham Lake, speaker begins at 12:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.hamlakecc.org.

Service Group

Night to Unite

St. Francis Area Women of Today meets the first Thursday of the month at the Anoka Hennepin Credit Union, 23280 St. Francis Blvd. NW in St. Francis. Social time is 6:30 p.m. with the meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Women of Today, visit us at www.sfawt.org.

Please join the St. Francis Lions, St. Francis Lioness & The Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program August 2, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at St. Francis Community Park for Night to Unite. There will be hot dogs and chips provided by the St. Francis Lions and Lionesses, root beer floats provided by the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce, temporary tattoos provided by the Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program and music provided by Party Patrol DJs, LLC.

Lions Oak Grove Lions meet every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. adjourning at 8:00 p.m. For more information, call Lion Mark Silvernagel at 763-753-2215.

Benefit Disabled American Veterans—Anoka Chapter 39 Golf Tournament will be held Thursday July 14, 12:30 p.m. start time at The Refuge Golf Club. Support your local Disabled American Veterans. For more information visit https://squareup. com/store/dav-golf-tournament or contact Leo Luskey or Erin McLean at 763-767-9710.

NOWTHEN LIONS CLUB Are you looking to serve in your community of Nowthen? Meet new friends? Have a lot of fun? Come join the Nowthen Lions Club! The Nowthen Lions meet on the first Thursday of the month for the board meeting and on the third Thursday of the month for the membership meeting. Please call Patty Wirz at 763-241-1341 or email nowthenlions@yahoo.com.

SFHS Class Reunion St. Francis High School Class of 1976 will hold their 40th reunion on Saturday, October 1, 6:00-9:00 p.m. at The Ponds Golf Course in St. Francis. For more information, contact Cindy Porter Tilbury at cindy.tilbury@att.net.

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.

Contact The Courier Online

www.the-courier.org Like us on Facebook ISD 15 The Courier

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 Seniors If you are 55 or older, come enjoy some companionship. We play cards and bingo, go on trips, have picnics and potlucks. We meet the first and third Thursday of each month at the St. Francis Legion. Social time at noon, meeting at 1:00 p.m., games until 3:00 p.m. Some play Scrabble in the afternoon on the second Thursday and Cribbage on the fourth Friday. Come check us out or call President Ray Steinke at 763-753-1871. East Bethel Seniors Dances are held 1:00-4:00 p.m. The next is on Friday, July 1 with old time music played by Dick Szyplinski. Entertainment for the August 5 dance will be performed by Jim Armstrong. All are welcome to the Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, July 10, 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. 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 763-434-6179. We also go on tours, etc. The East Bethel Senior Center is available for rent, call Dennis at 763-434-9244. Are you 55 or older? Bring your spouse and come and enjoy some companionship. All are welcome. Join East Bethel Seniors for $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.

Lioness

AA Meets at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. AA/NA Meetings at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in East Bethel. NA on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., AA on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., NA on Fridays at 6:30 p.m.

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 763753-4234.

Health & Fitness 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. 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.

City & Township Meetings

Andover City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 1685 Crosstown Blvd. NW, Andover, 763-755-5100

Bethel City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Thursday 7:00 p.m., 23820 Dewey Street, Bethel, 763-434-4366

CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONS CLUB meets bimonthly, first and third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., at Hunters Inn. Call Judy Ricke at 763-226-4893.

CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONESS CLUB meets the first Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at Ham Lake VFW. For membership information call Marilyn Kappelhoff, 763-434-6599. We Serve!

Meets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 19800 Nowthen Blvd. NW, Nowthen, 763-441-1347

St. Francis Lions Club meets three times during the month at the St. Francis American Legion. First Wednesday board meeting; second Wednesday regular business meeting; fourth Wednesday social and program. All meetings start at 7:00 p.m. and adjourn at 8:15 p.m. Call Lion Kevin Schuldt for more information at 763-753-1205 or visit www.stfrancismn.lionwap.org.

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.

Oak Grove City Council Meets 2nd & last Monday 7:00 p.m., 19900 Nightingale St. NW, Oak Grove, 763-404-7000

By Phone

763-753-7031

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

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

AA/NA

Seniors

In Person

4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

By Mail

The Courier

4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW St. Francis, MN 55070

Nowthen City Council

East Bethel City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday 7:00 p.m., 2241 221st Avenue NE, East Bethel, 763-367-7840

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 31

Life Good news for people living with Type 2 (adult) diabetes mellitus Christine Hill

Hennepin County Medical Center

In the fight against type 2 (adult) diabetes, the American Diabetes Association and International Diabetes Federation recently announced their unanimous support of weight loss surgery as a vitally important treatment. They hope that this announcement will educate doctors, other medical providers and the public about this underutilized and very effective treatment for diabetes. The entire June 2016 issue of the American Diabetes Association’s journal

Diabetes Care is devoted to a joint statement by these organizations and it includes other articles that provide factual support for this recommendation. “Weight loss surgeons have known for over 30 years that gastric bypass surgery is the safest and most effective treatment for type 2 diabetes,” explains Dr. Guilford Hartley, an internal medicine specialist and Medical Director for the Hennepin Bariatric Center. “This consensus has now been adopted by those who provide non-surgical treatment for diabetes as well, including endocrinologists and other medical specialists involved in

ut o b a s u k s A line n o w e n r u o pet med pharmacy! St. Francis Veterinary Clinic 763-444-9359

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

how can you Ask Fido, offer such low prices Fido: for top quality grooming? “Easy, no expensive storefront so our savings are passed on to our customers.” Call for a price quote or view our website www.fidosbarber.com for everyday low prices on full-service grooms and ‘spit and shine’ specials.

Fido’s Customer Perk Free nail trims between grooms

Featuring top quality Bio-Groom Products

Fido’s Barber Shop 19847 Orchid St. NW, Oak Grove

763-213-8143

www.fidosbarber.com All Breed Professional Dog Grooming and Personal Care Boarding Day and Evening Appointments

Going on vacation? Reserve you pet’s stay now. 32

greatest and is most likely to last many years. In most cases, weight loss surgery is appropriate in severely overweight people even before diabetes develops and can reduce the likelihood that a person will ever develop diabetes. In addition to reducing or avoiding complications associated with diabetes, studies show that severely overweight people who have weight loss surgery live longer and have a better quality of life than if they did not have surgery. The Hennepin Bariatric Center and Obesity Program is an American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Center of Excellence. The ASMBS Center

Births

“We treat your pets like our own”

10% Off for new Grooming Customers!

the care of diabetes.” Dr. Hartley won’t refer to the absence of diabetes symptoms as a cure, but it comes close. “When weight loss surgery patients achieve normal blood glucose (sugar) and can go off of their diabetes medications, it sure looks like we’ve found a cure for this deadly disease, but we prefer to say that their diabetes is in remission. No matter what you call it – the absence of having to manage diabetes and being able to avoid its life-threatening complications makes a tremendous difference in the lives of patients.” When surgery is done as soon as possible after a diabetes diagnosis, the likelihood of remission is

Skyler Hope French was born on May 27, 2016 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was 18½ inches long. Proud parents are Guy and Ariel French of Isanti. Skyler is welcomed by siblings Abrianna and Keaten. Cameron William Frovik was born on June 3, 2016 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces and was 21¼ inches long. Proud parents after Richard and Molly Frovik of Stanford Township. Cameron is welcomed by siblings Bailee and RJ. Cooper Allen Powley was born on June 13, 2016 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parents are Michelle and Robert Powley of Cambridge. Cooper is welcomed by brother Charlie.

Join us for

Preschool Summer Camp

at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church & Preschool as we dive into the world of Eric Carle.

August 15-18 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Who is invited?

Children age 3 by May 1, through 5, pre-kindergarten. Children must be toilet trained. Cost is $55 — please bring a bag lunch with your child’s name on it each day.

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church

19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel

Each day will be filled with stories, art activities and games based on a different Eric Carle book. Day 1 The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day 2 The Grouchy Ladybug Day 3 The Mixed Up Chameleon Day 4 10 Little Rubber Ducks

Contact Michelle Bauer, Preschool Director, 763-413-6117 ext. 123 –or– mbauer@oursaviourslc.org –or–

go to oursaviourslc.org to register!

of Excellence designation recognizes surgical programs with a demonstrated track record of favorable outcomes in bariatric surgery. For more information, go to www.hcmc. org/weightloss.

Faith Listings Abundant Life Alliance Church 3840 197th Avenue NW Oak Grove • 763-753-0284 www.AbundantLife4U.org Bethel Community Church 23860 Dewey Street NW Bethel • 763-434-9834 www.bethelschurch.org Cedar United Methodist Church 17541 Jefferson Street NE Ham Lake • 763-434-7463 www.cedarumc.org Cross of Hope Lutheran Church 5730-179th Lane NW Ramsey • 763-753-2057 www.crossofhope.net Elim Baptist Church 114 Dahlin Street SE Isanti • 763-444-9221 www.elimistani.org Immanuel Church 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 Long Lake Lutheran Church 3921 277th Avenue NW Isanti • 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.org New Life Church 17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW Ramsey • 763-421-0166 www.newlifemn.org Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel • 763-434-6117 www.oursaviourslc.org St. Andrew Lutheran Church 1450 237th Avenue NE East Bethel • 763-434-7146 www.standreweb.org St. Francis United Methodist Church 3914 229th Avenue NW St. Francis • 763-753-2273 www.stfrancis-umc.com St. Patrick Catholic Church 19921 Nightingale Street NW Oak Grove • 763-753-2011 www.st-patricks.org Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Latchkey/Childcare 3812 229th Avenue NW St. Francis • 763-753-1234 www.trinitysf.org West Bethel United Methodist Church 1233 221st Avenue NE Cedar • 763-434-6451

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Master Gardener

Carol bray Isanti county master gardener

If I knew then what I know now I’ve been gardening semiseriously for less than 15 years, and I learned some lessons the hard way. I’ll share some of them with you. Be realistic as to how much time you actually have to spend gardening, especially if you try to maintain a more or less weed-free garden. I average three hours per day. Some days I don’t get in the garden and some days I’m outside all day. (Hint: shade gardens are easier than full sun gardens because the weeds do not grow as fast in shady areas.) Prepping your garden space takes time, but it is worth it. I have clay soil, so most of my gardens have had about 18 inches of clay removed and replaced with composted and organic soil. The best thing to do is to have a soil test so you know how to treat your soil. Plants are not cheap and gardening time is precious so this step is necessary, although not nearly as much fun as

doing the plant selection and planting. Patience is a requirement. The first three years of a plant, such as trees, shrubs, asparagus and peonies, are very much sleep, creep and finally leap years. Journal. You think you will remember to move a plant or split a plant or hold off on planting until a certain date… the following spring or autumn. Trust me; you won’t remember. A journal is a good place to document how much sun a location receives, when plants bloomed, etc. Be careful what plants you receive from fellow gardeners. Of course, these are plants that propagate easily, or they wouldn’t be plants to share. I have several plants that were given to me that are so invasive and choke out other plants and I just can’t seem to get rid of them. Some of the challenging plants I have received have been ribbon grass, loosestrife and

File Photo

(who doesn’t), use as big of a container as possible so the soil won’t dry out so fast. Water the soil, not the leaves, if possible. Allow plenty of space for plant growth. Some plants, if they’re happy, get bigger than the height and width indicated on the label. Acknowledge your physical abilities. Gardening can take a lot of physical strength. Have helpful garden tools. Finally, switch to container or raised

tradescantia (spiderwort). Just say no. I have had a hard time saying no to offers of young tomato plants. The result was that my tomato plants were crowded and didn’t get good air circulation, which increases your chances for disease. Some container gardens need to be watered more than once a day. Will you be a diligent and responsible waterer of container gardens? If you like container gardens

FREE SELF DEFENSE Seminar Krav Maga

Saturday, July 23 10:00 a.m.

We Have Infant Openings! Now Taking Enrollment Both Locations, All Ages East Bethel

763-434-1980

Doesn’t matter your fitness level, every shape, size and physical issue should know how to protect themselves. Please bring a food donation for the local foodshelf.

Tons

64 Tons

Recycled in May St. Francis has recycled 270 tons in 2016 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

763-267-2198 www.Ascensionft.com

For ages

10-110!

Please pre-register.

19580 Tamarack Street NW Cedar, MN 55011

Weekly Events & Specials

763-444-3774 Call for Employment Opportunities

Ascension Fitness Training

Krav Maga is a simple highly effective self defense system that incorporates your instinctual reaction to an attack.

Isanti

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

“So one can walk in peace.” Don’t be a victim!

Come and learn the fastest growing self defense system in the world today.

Child Care Center

2016 Goal 701

gardens when you get older. (Of course, I’m not there yet.) For more information, visit Isanti County Master Gardeners’ website at isanticountymastergardeners. com, the University of Minnesota Extension website at www.extension.umn.edu or call the Isanti County Master Gardeners at 763-689-8254. You can also find us on Facebook at Isanti County Master Gardeners.

Monday Bingo 6:30 p.m., Wing Special Tuesday Texas Hold ’Em 6:30 p.m., Tacos

Breakfast Buffet July Fourth — 9:00 a.m.-Noon Featuring… Egg Bake Bacon Hash Browns Biscuits & Gravy Waffles Scrambled Eggs French Toast Stix Sausage & more

L A K E S I D E

Wednesday Cribbage 6:30 p.m., Chef ’s Choice Thursday Juicy Lucy Special Friday

All-U-Can-Eat Fish Fry starting at 5:00 p.m.; Meat Raffle at 6:00 p.m.

Breakfast 8:00-11:00 a.m.; All-U-Can-Eat Saturday BBQ Ribs starting at 5:00 p.m. & Prime Rib Special; Meat Raffle 4:00 p.m. Sunday Prime Rib Special

Upcoming Entertainment July 2 Hawaiian Luau/Pig Roast July 3 Live Band Santrio Party with July 10 Polka New Wes Miller Trio Menu! July 14 Shane Martin New July 15 Rowdy Cowboys Owners! July 16 Soupbones

G R I L L E

27821 Bayshore Drive NW, Isanti, MN 763-444-5897 Mon-Th 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Sat 8 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

Check out our beautiful wedding and events center by the lake. 33

ELCA

Our Saviour’s

Lutheran Church & Preschool Following Jesus, we Worship, Learn, Serve, Invite and Connect. Summer Worship Schedule

8:30 & 10:00 a.m. Wednesday night at the Chapel in Ham Lake, 7:00 p.m.

July Sermon Series:

God & sports—what’s the connection? 19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel West County Road 22 south and Jackson Street For information call 763-434-6117 or visit our website at www.oursaviourslc.org email to: oslc@oursaviourslc.org Pastor Daniel Nordin • Pastor Maria Pederson Associate in Ministry Glenndy Ose

46th Annual

Nowthen

Threshing Show

August 19-21

3 miles west of Hwy. 47 on Old Viking Blvd. in Nowthen Gates open at 7:00 a.m. Adult admission is $10 per day weekend passes are available

For more information, contact Sharon Wilhelm at 763-295-2600, 763-913-1238 or wilhelm@tds.net

Live entertainment each day!

Featured this year

Many food vendors, Friday and Saturday night tractor pulls, golf cart rentals available, visit www.nowthenthreshing.com for more information. Bringing the past to the present!

50th anniversary for the Natural Resources Field Trip Jy Xiong

4-H Program Coordinator, University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County

For 50 years, the University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County 4-H has provided environmental education and scientific inquiry to Anoka County area schools’ fourth and fifth-graders, using a grant from Ag Preserves that partially funds the field trip. We would like to thank all of our past instructors, participants, volunteers and staff for contributing to the education of an entire generation of field trip attendees! The Natural Resources Field Trip takes place the first full week of May. This year’s field trip hosted over 750 students from nine different schools and had 23 instructors, independently and from organizations such as Minnesota Conservation Corps, University of Minnesota Monarch Lab, Metropolitan Mosquito Control, Anoka Conservation District, Minnesota Herpetology Society and many more. Students had the chance to learn about several topics, from mosquitoes and poison ivy to clean environment and home energy conservation. Anoka County Parks’ Bunker Hills Regional Park Rustic Campground and Heritage Lab Wargo Center provided the perfect backdrop to immerse students in the outdoors and environmental sciences. Students and teachers had nothing but positive things to say about the field trip. All 12 stations were informative, engaging and fun!

Opp Chiropractic visits kindergartners Julie Kellerman

CCCS kindergarten teacher

Doctors Brian and Cindy Opp and Dr. Katie Hofkes visited Cedar Creek Community School kindergarten classes on May 25 as a culmination to an anatomy unit. They read the

book Sammy the Centipede Goes to the Chiropractor and talked to students about the importance of taking care of their bodies. Each kindergarten class also created an anatomy apron showing the organs in the body. Students learned songs about each of the organs and why each one is important.

Cedar Creek Community School kindergarten students had a visit from the doctors at Opp Chiropractic and created anatomy aprons during their anatomy unit.

Deadly danger: infants on air mattresses Neighborhood Safety Network The Consumer Products Safety Commission has received reports of 40 infant suffocation deaths in the last five years, of infants who were placed to sleep on air mattresses. Infants can suffocate on an air mattress or can become entrapped between the mattress and bed frame or mattress and wall. Never place infants to sleep on air mattresses or other soft surfaces (such as water beds and adult beds), which are not specifically designed or safe for infant use. Even properly-inflated air mattresses are usually too soft for infants to maintain a clear airway. Instead, use a crib or play yard that has a firm, tight-fitting mattress and tight fitting bottom sheet without any blankets, bumpers, pillows or stuffed animals. Never place infants ages 15 months old and younger to sleep on an inflatable air mattress Always place baby to sleep on his or her back in a crib or play yard that meets current standards.

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.

Fixed right the first time!

Give your door a spring tune-up!

763-753-2032 34

Stop In And Visit Our Showroom Or We Can Bring Samples To You!

612.720.5196 Call for an appointment!

• Carpet Tom Evavold • Vinyl • Laminate 13533 Jay St. NW • Hardwood Andover, MN 55304 Floors

www.A1floorsinc.com

Roofing Siding Windows Painting Storm Damage

New Construction Services, LLC.

MN Lic# BC631894

Your home Exterior Experts serving the community for over 15 Years

612-298-7501 St. Francis, MN

Finance your project 0% interest* for 18 months.

Call us for all your roofing, siding, window, gutter and interior needs today! • Locally owned • Licensed, bonded and insured

*Offer expires 6/30/16.

Lic # BC637881

Phone 763-434-1500 www.myproexteriors.com The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Engagement

Pet Corner

Dr. Amy Morgan Oak Grove Animal Hospital, Owner

Question My dog is itchy and sometimes I find raised pink bumps on his skin. Are these symptoms of allergies? Answer Dogs are frequently diagnosed with seasonal allergies and are allergic to the same things as people. This time of year can be a prime time for allergens to affect dogs. The good news is that if your dog doesn’t have symptoms of allergies by the time it’s 2 or 3 years old, it’s unlikely they will develop any later in life. However, if your dog has had itchiness (with or without skin lesions) and this itchiness seems to occur at the same time each year, it may very well be allergies. Instead of having respiratory symptoms like people do with allergies, dogs become itchy. Allergies can affect one part of the body or several. Many dogs exhibit allergies by chewing or licking their feet or legs. Sometimes their ears or entire body are itchy. You may notice that when you pet or scratch your dog’s back that it lifts a hind leg to scratch—this is often seen with allergies. Your dog may even be so itchy that it chews its hair down to stubble or scratches it out in areas. Sometimes there are papules,

which are small, slightly raised pink bumps on the skin. These can be part of the inflammatory process that occurs in the skin with allergies, or they may be secondary to excessive licking and chewing at the skin. If your dog is missing hair or is keeping you awake at night licking or scratching, it’s time to get help to decrease the itchiness. Sometimes antihistamines work to suppress itchiness in dogs due to allergies, but once your dog is itchy, it’s more likely it will need stronger medication. The most commonly used medications for allergies in dogs are Prednisone (and its off brands), Atopica (cyclosporine) and Apoquel. Each medication has potential side effects and costs vary. Your veterinarian can help you decide which medication will work best. Regular bathing once or twice a week in a hypoallergenic or oatmeal shampoo can also be very helpful, as it washes away the airborne allergens that can stick to your dog’s coat. Spring isn’t the only time dogs suffer from allergies. Seasonal allergies can occur midsummer, all summer, until the first hard frost in the fall or sometimes just in the fall. Seek help for your dog if itchiness is excessive.

Brent and Ginger Berg of Bethel announce the engagement of their son Blake Berg, a 2005 graduate of St. Francis High School, to Briana Leaf, a 2005 graduate of Cambridge-Isanti High School. Blake works for the Metropolitan Council and Briana is a nurse at Fairview Ridges Hospital. A fall wedding is planned in Prior Lake this year. Submitted Photo 3220 Bridge Street, Suite 107 in the St. Francis Mall

Call

763-753-1277 for an Appointment

Provide plenty of water and shade for outdoor dogs to prevent overheating.

Kendall W. Goodian, D.C. Chiropractic Orthopedist

Specializing in Sports, Industrial and Auto Accident Injuries

6/12

Temperature Sensing For Today… and Tomorrow.

Amy Morgan, D.V.M. Kaija Youngner, D.V.M. Lisa Johnson, D.V.M. Dawn Price, D.V.M Alyssa Ziche, D.V.M.

Temperature Specialists, Inc. 3175 Bridge Street NW St. Francis, MN 55070-9612 763-753-2974 • FAX 763-753-5401 • 800-272-5709 www.temperaturespecialists.com MANUFACTURER OF RESISTANCE TEMPERATURE SENSORS

GRILLING? We have the ingredients.

We accept applications for employment and offer on-the-job training

5 Off Express Gasolines ¢

Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store. Expires 7/31/16 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.

5 Off Express Gasolines ¢

www.kingscountymarket.com 23122 St. Francis Boulevard NW St. Francis 763-753-3334 Open Seven Days A Week Monday-Saturday 5:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Sunday 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org

Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store.

Specialty Deli Salads • Fried & Rotisserie Chicken Fresh Fruit • Cold Beverages • Chips & Snacks • Bakery

Expires 7/31/16 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.

Expires 7/31/16 X1001 Expires 7/31/16 X1001

19035 Lake George Boulevard NW Oak Grove, MN 55303 763-753-6336 • www.oakgrovevet.net

Nationally Ranked

DISC GOLF

Course

Vision Quest is an 18 hole disc golf course that is rated 4.73/5. An impeccably maintained course with open holes, several water carries and two peninsula greens.

Come and see why Minnesota is being called the “disc golf Mecca” for the nation.

Now open 7 days a week, 8:00 a.m. to dusk

u Fee is $10 for all day u Yearly memberships available u Year-round play, course is plowed in the winter u Artificial turf Tee Pads u Cart rental is available u Activities such as putt shoes, bean bag toss, three zip lines, stand up paddle boards, kayaks and trampoline u Wood-fired barbecues free to use u Nine fire pits u Pro shop

Reviews…

ht of They’ve thoug everything lub The country c experience s a lot of This cou rse ha s memorable hole Taking it to a nother level Fam ily friendly

Anyone ca n p

lay

855 Sims Road • Cedar, MN 55011 www.visionquestadventurepark.com • 763-203-1883 D 36

The Courier | July 2016 | www.the-courier.org