August/September 2016 | Volume 24, Issue 1
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The Courier
Independent School District 15 Communications Department St. Francis, Minnesota Serving the communities of Andover, Athens Township, Bethel, East Bethel, Linwood Township, Nowthen, Oak Grove, St. Francis and Stanford Township
ISD 15 transportation and maintenance employees team up on cost-effective project Heidi Anderson
Staff Writer
As community members drive around Independent School District 15 (ISD 15), they may notice various district-owned pick-up trucks being used for a variety of projects. Many of these trucks are a result of an ongoing, cost-effective project in the transportation department. Steve Tharp, a mechanic and third-generation employee of the ISD 15 transportation department, searches for trucks that will fit the district’s needs, are in decent condition and are available at a low price. Tharp also works with grounds supervisor Paul Carpenter to find trucks that will fit the needs of grounds workers. Tharp says that since each of the trucks has a strict regimen for maintenance, most will likely last for at least eight to ten years. According to Tharp, the district can purchase clean, used trucks, equip them with the necessary accessories and complete any minor repairs for about one-fourth of the cost of a new truck, even on state bidding. If trucks were purchased new, there would still be additional costs to properly fit them with the necessary add-ons. One used truck was purchased for $6,250. The truck
Each of the used trucks was purchased at a low price and then fixed up to fit the needs of Independent School District 15 transportation and grounds employees, saving the district money. The Courier Photo
had a contractor box, which was unnecessary for the district’s use. Carpenter said they were able to sell the box at an auction and used the funds from the sale to purchase the necessary parts needed to fix up the truck. The trucks that Tharp and Carpenter found have come from a variety of organizations and businesses. One was previously with the Cincinnati Fire Department, while another was used by a power
company in South Dakota. Carpenter said that sellers are always happy to hear that their truck is being sold to a public school district. Many of the used trucks come from outside of Minnesota and do not have the rust and other wear and tear issues that come with winter weather driving. They also search for trucks that have common parts. One of the trucks has the same parts as large school buses, while another uses the same as smaller buses. Carpenter says that the collaboration between the grounds and transportation departments is natural, because grounds crew employees know what they need their trucks to do and the mechanics can make it happen. At the June 27 ISD 15 School Board meeting, Superintendent Troy Ferguson praised the employees working on these trucks for how they understand their part in the District’s Strategic Plan. “That’s being very responsible for the taxpayers,” Ferguson said. “They’re doing that out of a commitment to help us reach that mission.” Tharp said that working on projects like this is one of the things he likes best about his job. “I truly enjoy working with people on projects, helping people and trying to do what’s best for the district and the people who live here,” Tharp said.
Bountiful early harvest Dave Berger
CSVC teacher
Crossroads School & Vocational Center student Brayden Filas harvested a few vegetables from the school’s Victory Garden. Photo by Dave Berger
Students tended to lush garden beds and harvested many early vegetables including peas, beets, carrots, lettuce, radishes and spinach as they returned for summer school at Crossroads School & Vocational Center July 11. Much of the harvest came from the covered “hoop-mahal” which is one of the raised beds covered with a shower curtain. Identical crops were planted in the hoop-mahal, the experimental bed and an uncovered raised bed, the control bed, in early May. Students discovered that seeds germinated much more quickly in the covered raised bed and their data showed a much faster growth rate in the covered bed. When they began harvesting in July, the carrot and beet tops were pushing against the shower curtain roof, which is at least 45.7 centimeters above the soil compared to the open bed in which the carrots and beets only reached 17.8 centimeters. Dedicated Anoka County Master Gardeners have returned to teach students throughout the summer months. Straw mulch was applied to the tomato and pepper plants in order to reduce weeds, modify soil temperature and maintain soil moisture.
Some of the tomato plants are almost one meter high with lots of flowers and tomatoes starting to form. One Haralson and two honeycrisp apple trees were planted as bare root stock in May and are doing well. We want to thank the volunteer work experience program at Bar None for making sure the garden was watered and weeded during the month of June. Lisa Wong, University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County educator, will be teaching students how to cook using fresh produce from the Victory Garden this summer. Also, the control and experimental beds in the garden will be replanted and data will be collected and used by students returning in the fall. The hypothesis is that the covered experimental bed will allow the vegetables to be harvested much later in the fall compared to the open control bed.
Inside Schools in Action............................................ 2 School Board Highlights............................. 11 Community & Business............................... 13 Community Education................................ 22 Sports & Outdoors....................................... 25 Meetings, Events & Benefits........................ 27 Life.................................................................. 28
2 August/September 2016 The Courier
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Schools in Action Superintendent’s Bulletin Troy Ferguson ISD 15 Superintendent
Recent events from the past year, and this summer in particular, have heightened safety and security concerns across our state and nation. Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) is committed to making our buildings as safe as we are able. In the spirit of our continuous commitment to keep students and staff safe, we began the process of reviewing our current emergency procedures last year, especially our practices in the event of an active shooter. Current protocol for our district and many other
school districts across the state and nation have been in place since before the 1999 shooting at Columbine High School in Colorado. Using the lockdown and hide practice for that tragedy was followed, yet it resulted in the death of 13 students and staff. More recently, tragedies like the one at Sandy Hook Elementary School has caused law enforcement and public officials to reexamine the true effectiveness of the lockdown and hide practice, which is still common. The tragic reality is that these methods, once
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of survival. These options including escaping, barricading the door and protecting oneself by any means necessary should an active shooter get inside the room. Training will emphasize that the best way to survive is to escape. When that is not possible, being mentally prepared and having been given the authority and ability to act will save lives. A community forum regarding ALICE training will be held August 23 at 7:00 p.m. Details on the location will be posted on the district website and Facebook page closer to the event. A letter with more information will also be sent home to ISD 15 families soon.
location of the event. Lockdown: This is still a good starting point. We will continue to lockdown students in secure areas. Inform: Keeping the staff and students informed allows for good decision making. Counter: Students and staff can apply skills to barricade, and if necessary, distract, confuse and gain control. Evacuate: This will reduce the number of potential targets for the shooter and chances of injuries resulting from friendly fire when help arrives. In no way are we asking or teaching ISD 15 students and staff to make any attempt to subdue an active shooter. However, we will provide them with options that can greatly enhance their chance
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believed to be best practice, limit options and result in significantly higher loss of innocent lives. ISD 15 has enhanced the lockdown procedures that we, as well as experts across the country, believe will increase the chance of survival. The enhancements we will teach our staff and students are from the ALICE Training Program, a list of procedures developed by the ALICE Training Institute. According to their website, ALICE is the first program in the country to use “optionbased, proactive survival strategies to prepare for active shooter events.” What does ALICE stand for? Alert: We will get the word out using clear, concise language and describe the
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org
August/September 2016
3
Professional Learning Communities support collaboration and high expectations Editor’s note: The complete article, written by Steve Fetzik, appeared in the December 2015/January 2016 issue of The Courier. Excerpts appear here.
Licensed staff in Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) are working with a new sense of collaboration and purpose. ISD 15 introduced Professional Learning Communities (PLC) a few years ago, a process allowing teachers to align curriculum, work with peers to ensure consistent instruction and analyze data to promote student growth. At an ISD 15 School Board meeting last November, ISD 15 Superintendent Troy Ferguson stated that the district is developing systems and structures to “become a PLC district” rather than “just doing PLC.” According to Ferguson, that means an on-going collaborative process of organizing teachers into working groups as described by Dr. Richard DuFour in his
book, Learning By Doing. It is the process of teachers working collaboratively with each other, especially those who teach similar classes, in order to gather achievement data. This data is then used to create plans for improving individual and group achievement. “Collaboration is the key. Every member of the teaching team needs to be on board,” said Linda Ericson, the district’s Student Performance Initiative Improvement Coordinator. “It’s a systematic, whole-school process in which everybody needs to be engaged in order for it to succeed.” The PLC structure aligns with the ISD 15 core value, “We believe that commitment to high expectations is essential to help achieve full individual and collective potential.” A focus of PLC is for each teacher to set SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic,
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timely). Every day, teachers are expected to post their SMART goal or learning target for students and be able to measure if it was achieved. This can be done a number of ways, but many teachers use both formative (short term) and summative (long term) tests of knowledge. Ericson added, “The big thing is focusing on learning and knowing that students are progressing. We need to cooperatively look at instructional procedures, create common assessments
Announcing PLC Optional Care Attention, parents of K-5 students—are you wondering what your options are for the nine scheduled PLC late start school days for the 2016-17 school year? Independent School District 15 is offering an option for parents of students in kindergarten through fifth-grade to register for supervised care from 7:15 a.m. until school begins at 10:50 a.m. This option is available at Cedar Creek Community School (CCCS), East Bethel Community School (EBCS) and St. Francis Elementary School (SFES). Space is limited, so register early. PLC Late Start Dates for the 2016-17 School Year Wednesday, September 21 Wednesday, October 19 Wednesday, November 16 Wednesday, December 21 Wednesday, January 18 Wednesday, February 15 Wednesday, March 22 Wednesday, April 19 Wednesday, May 17 The fee for PLC Optional Care is $19.50 per day. A package for all nine PLC days is $145—a savings of $30! Contact Chris Schlottman at 763-213-1616 or chris.schlottman@isd15.org to reserve your spot. If students ride the school bus on the PLC late start days, buses will run 90 minutes later than scheduled. Call the ISD 15 Transportation Department for details at 763-753-7080. If parents choose to drop off their student at school, note that school (CCCS, EBCS, SFES) is not open until 10:50 a.m.
and engage in conversations to move students forward in their academic progress.” Since the inception of the program, over 150 ISD 15 teachers and administrators have participated in formal training during the summer. Dr. DuFour and his staff provide training over a three-day period. Each year, the district hopes to send 50 additional staff members until all groups have received training. In the end, according to Ericson, it’s all about how you see student learning and the
impact that teacher teams can have. “Collaboration is a mindset. The process is fluid and in response to student needs. When results of collaboration are seen, it stops being another thing you ‘have to do,’ and becomes an integral part of the teacher team process. Working as PLC supports the district mission “…to equip all students with the knowledge and skills to empower them to achieve their dreams and full potential while becoming responsible citizens in a dynamic world.”
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Schedule of Events 11:00 am Kick-off 11:00 am-1:00 pm St. Francis High School Drumline Lake George Conservation Club 11:00 am-3:00 pm Loon Nest with Ron Schara, pictures & other conservation info 11:00 am-4:00 pm Car Show • Silent Auction Oak Grove Fire Department Firefighting Equipment Anoka County Sheriff’s Office 11:00 am-5:00 pm Speciality Vehicles Kids Games • Vendors, Crafts, etc. Food Wagon • Corn-on-the-Cob Popcorn & Cotton Candy Noon-2:00 pm Life Link Helicopter Noon-4:00 pm Mayor’s Tractor Ride Connexus Energy - Electrical Safety Noon-5:00 pm Trailer demonstrations 1:00 pm Start Bingo, Oak Grove Seniors Club 1:00-5:00 pm Live music with Roadhouse Blue Anoka County Sheriff’s Office 1:30 pm K-9 Demo - west side of fire station 1:30-4:30 pm Wellness Van Raptor Center - South side in 2:00-3:00 pm fire station bay SWAT Team Members with 2:00-4:00 pm equipment display 3:00-4:00 pm Can Do Canines - Demonstration
Family Fun for All ! Kick-off with the St. Francis High School Drumline
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4 August/September 2016 The Courier
School calendars The 2016-17 ISD 15 school calendar will be available at open houses (one per family). For additional calendars, please contact The Courier office at 763-753-7031 after Tuesday, September 6.
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.
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Open House schedule for District 15 schools Cedar Creek Community School Tuesday, August 30 5:00-6:30 p.m. East Bethel Community School Wednesday, August 31 5:00-6:00 p.m. • All School BBQ 5:00-6:30 p.m. • All School Open House St. Francis Elementary School (both campuses) Tuesday, August 30 5:00-6:30 p.m. Crossroads School & Vocational Center Wednesday, August 31 4:00-7:30 p.m. Saints Academy (CSVC) Wednesday, August 31 4:00-8:00 p.m.
Transition 15 (CSVC) Wednesday, August 31 4:00-7:30 p.m. St. Francis High School Monday, August 29 3:30-7:30 p.m. Grade 9 and new student orientation Monday, August 29 Noon-7:30 p.m. Staff/Student Pictures St. Francis Middle School Thursday, August 25 2:00-6:00 p.m. • Early Access Wednesday, August 31 4:00-6:00 p.m. • Grade 6 6:30-8:00 p.m. • Grades 7 & 8 Lifelong Learning Center Tuesday, September 6 First day of Adult Basic Education Thursday, September 8 Peek at Preschool
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New start times for 2016-17 school year Heidi Anderson
Staff Writer
Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) schools have adjusted some start and end times for the 2016-17 school year. 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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The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
Saints Online now open to students in grades 3-12
New alternative education opportunity Scott Manni
Principal, Saints Academy
quality, online learning experience.” One parent of a Saints Online student liked the options it provided their family and said, “The district was able to offer the flexibility we needed as a family. Because of Saints Online, my child was able to take classes both at St. Francis High School and from Saints Online. Working together, we were able to create an individualized learning plan.” Enrollment is limited, so applications received after the early enrollment period are on a first come, first serve basis until the enrollment cap is reached. Enrollment for the first trimester of the 2016-17 school year closes on September 9. Principal Manni looks forward to meeting with parents and students in August to talk about enrollment options and how Saints Online can provide the flexibility, accountability and rigorous coursework many students need. Email scott.manni@isd15.org or call 763-753-7152.
Scott Manni
Principal, Saints Online
After a successful first year, Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) received final approval from the Minnesota Department of Education to expand the online learning program for grades 3-12. Saints Online will be an option for general education, credit recovery and diploma completion to ISD 15 students who live within district boundaries and/or students who open enroll into the district in grades 3-12. Saints Online offers open lab hours Monday through Friday, local licensed teachers for academic support and a support staff dedicated to providing a quality online experience. The Saints Online program is housed at Crossroads School & Vocational Center in St. Francis. According to Principal Scott Manni, “Saints Online is about breaking down barriers, not building them. Because we know our community and our families best, we will be able to provide your student with a personalized, high-
Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) has opened a new chapter in alternative education for families living in the district. Saints Academy offered its first summer credit recovery program. The program is housed at the Crossroads School & Vocational Center (CSVC) in St. Francis. Saints Academy enables ISD 15 or ISD 477 Princeton residents along with residents in surrounding communities in grades 9-12 who are not successful in the traditional high school setting to earn high school graduation credits and a diploma in a non-traditional setting. Saints Academy features an open commons area, individual classrooms, state-of-the-art technology, woodshop, greenhouses, a full gym and cafeteria. Saints Academy is a credit-based program where students attend on a daily basis and follow the traditional school calendar.
Ann Johnson
Homeshool Liaison
Information regarding registration for the 2016-17 school year for homeschool/ nonpublic schools is posted on the Independent School District 15 website: www.isd15.org; Parents > Parent Resources > Tell Me About…>Homeschool Information. Information packets will also be available at the ISD 15 Central Services Center. Contact Ann Johnson at 763-753-7044 to pick up a packet. Registrations, immunization forms and nonpublic pupil aid forms are due in the ISD 15 Superintendent’s Office by October 1, 2016 and can be submitted to: Independent School District 15, Attention: Ann Johnson, 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis, MN 55070. Homeschool information will also be available on the Minnesota Department of Education website: www.education.state.mn.us; click on Just For Parents > School and Enrollment Choices. For more information, contact Ann Johnson, 763-753-7044.
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Saints Academy provides individuals with opportunities to gain academic learning skills, vocational skills, work experience and assistance in the transition to employment and further education. Learners receive assistance in meeting graduation requirements through an individualized approach to learning and personalized attention to social needs. Core classes will be taught by a staff of highly qualified teachers who use alternative learning and teaching methods, including a handson approach. Students may dual enroll which combines St. Francis High School classes, Saints Academy classes and Saints Online classes in their school day. The Saints Academy program includes all of the basic academic required courses, vocational elective courses, work experience and general elective classes. New students will start on the first, fourth, seventh and tenth week of the trimester. For fall enrollment, please contact Scott Manni, principal, at 763-753-7152.
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6 August/September 2016 The Courier
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News from District 15 Health Services Sonni Sellner
Special Services Program Supervisor
The ISD 15 Health Services Department is excited to welcome students and staff back to school for the 2016-17 school year. Health Services staff are looking forward to a healthy school year and will be working hard to promote student health and safety so that health concerns do not become obstacles to learning. The following paragraphs will provide information to help
Courier Contacts Main Phone ����������������������������763-753-7031 Advertising �����������������������������763-753-7032 Billing ������������������������������������������763-213-1588 Fax �������������������������������������������������763-753-4693 Email �������������������������������������news@isd15.org Website �������������������� www.the-courier.org Like us on Facebook Address 4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW St. Francis, MN 55070-9368 Publisher Lisa Rahn �����������������������������������763-753-7048 lisa.rahn@isd15.org Editor Kathleen Miller ����������������������763-753-7042 kathleen.miller@isd15.org Production Heidi Anderson ���������������������763-753-7033 heidi.anderson@isd15.org Binie Bertils Pat Johnson �����������������������������763-753-7025 pat.johnson@isd15.org Sales Representative Mollie Ziebart �������������������������763-753-7032 mollie.ziebart@isd15.org Billing Amy Lindfors ��������������������������763-213-1588 amy.lindfors@isd15.org Deadline Information Deadline for the October issue of The Courier is September 9. Delivery For delivery inquiries call 763-753-7031 Letter to the Editor For the complete Letter to the Editor policy, visit www.the-courier.org. Policies and Pricing Visit www.the-courier.org for policy and pricing information. News Submission Send news and photos/captions to news@isd15.org. Subscriptions The publication is delivered at no charge to all residents in Independent School District 15. The Courier can be mailed to any address for an annual (10 issues) subscription rate of $18. The Courier is a publication prepared and distributed by Independent School District 15 Community Education and paid for with revenues generated by advertising sales.
answer the most common questions about school health services. District Health Services Staff There are several health positions in ISD 15. Each school has access to a licensed school nurse (LSN). In addition, each health office is staffed with either a health education assistant (HEA), a health office licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN). Cedar Creek Community School: Carol Wilson, LSN; Mary Beth Franz, HEA East Bethel Community School: Laina Nast, LSN; Barb Larson, HEA Lifelong Learning Center: Laina Nast, LSN; Sara Mitzuk, HEA St. Francis Elementary School: Lillian Levine, LSN; Teresa Cadwell, HEA St. Francis Middle School: Colleen Flaten, LSN; Sheryl Achman HEA St. Francis High School: Holly Coy, LSN; Jennifer Eirich, HEA Saints Academy, Saints Online, Transition 15, Crossroads School & Vocational Center: Lillian Levine, LSN; Open position, LPN Emergency Cards Emergency cards will be sent home at the beginning of the school year. Please fill out the form, sign and return it to your child’s school. It is very important that we have current emergency information for each student. We are only able to send students home with persons that are listed on the student’s emergency card. If there is a change of address or phone number during the school year, please contact the health office so we can make that change. Immunizations The Minnesota State Immunization Law requires students attending school to be immunized against vaccine preventable diseases. Current statute dictates that students in all grades must have documentation of all required vaccines on file. To enter kindergarten, students need to show proof of having had five DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), four polio, two MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), the Hepatitis B series and the two varicella (chicken pox) vaccines. Students entering grade 7 are required to show evidence of having had a second MMR, a Tdap (diphtheria, tetanus,
pertussis), the Hepatitis B series, two varicella (chicken pox) vaccines and the meningococcal vaccine. All vaccinations need to be completed prior to the first day of school. Class schedules for those entering grade 7 will be held until the needed immunization dates are received. Please call the LSN at your student’s school with any questions. Physicals The Minnesota State High School League requires that students participating in any athletic activities have on record a physical examination every three years. The district requires physicals for participation in athletic activities at the middle school and high school levels. In the growth and development of the adolescent, it is important that regular preventive healthcare, such as a physical, is obtained. The recommended years to have a physical would be prior to 7th and 10th grades. Physical fitness and developing the habit of routine preventive health exams promotes optimal health throughout your student’s life. Athletic physical exam forms can be obtained in the health office at your child’s school or found online at www. isd15.org > St. Francis High School > Athletics. If you have questions, please contact the health office at your student’s school. Illnesses It can be difficult to decide when your child should stay home due to illness. ISD 15 Health Services staff has developed guidelines that can guide your decision making. } If your child has a temperature over 100 degrees, he/she needs to be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school } If your child has vomited or had diarrhea, he/she needs to stay at home for 24 hours after the last episode } If your child has had a throat culture to rule out a strep infection, he/she should remain at home until the results of the culture have been obtained. If the culture is positive for strep, your child will need to be on medication for 24 hours before returning to school. } If your child has any rash that may be disease-related or you do not know the cause, check with your healthcare provider prior to having your child come to school.
} Please contact the health office at your child’s school if your child has any infectious disease such as chicken pox, strep throat, impetigo or if you have any questions. Medications A healthcare provider and parent/guardian permission are necessary to give medications at school. This includes both prescription and over-thecounter medications. Please remember, when you are at your clinic, get a note from your healthcare provider stating that medication needs to be given at school. If you forget to obtain the written order, the clinic can fax the permission to the school your child attends. Medication must be in the prescription bottle or original container when brought to school. Parents are required to bring the medication to school unless an alternate plan has been developed with the school nurse. Many medications are a controlled substance and we need to make sure that all of the medications arrive safely at school. If you have questions regarding medications, please contact the health office at your child’s school. Asthma Students with asthma may self-carry and administer their quick relief asthma inhaler at school when a healthcare provider, parent/guardian and school nurse agree that a student is able to self-administer their medication safely and responsibly at school (MN Inhaler Use Statutes 121A.221). Consent to self-carry must be completed annually by the prescribing healthcare professional and parent/ guardian and returned to the school nurse. Severe Allergies Students with life-threatening allergies/anaphylaxis may self-carry and administer their Epi-Pen®. The parent and prescribing doctor must annually inform the school in writing that the student possesses or requires access to the Epi-Pen®. The licensed school nurse will develop an individualized health plan to ensure student safety at school (MN House File 1763). Diabetes Federal law gives students with diabetes the right to receive the care they need to be safe and participate in school activities just like any other child. Our health services
staff works hard to provide monitoring of blood glucose levels, administer insulin and glucagon and provide diabetes care during field trips, extracurricular events and all school-sponsored activities. In addition, we work with families to make appropriate individualized health plans for the students. Per federal law, capable students are permitted to self-manage their diabetes anytime, anywhere. Section 504 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights statute that assures individuals will not be discriminated against based on disabilities and medical diagnoses, including many of those described above. This law protects a student with an impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity. In addition, students on 504 plans generally have accommodations so they can access learning at the same rate as peers. A student must qualify for a 504 plan through a school based evaluation process. If you are interested in learning more about 504 plans or feel your child may be a candidate for a 504 evaluation, please contact your school 504 coordinator: Lifelong Learning Center: Laina Nast Cedar Creek Community School: Kara Lofgren East Bethel Community School: Katherine Arnold St. Francis Elementary: Lillian Levine St. Francis Middle School: Brenda Langseth Perrault St. Francis High School: Tammy Sworsky Saints Academy, Saints Online: Scott Manni Transition 15, Crossroads School & Vocational Center: Jay Powell Additional Information The health services webpage can be found on the district website under the ‘departments’ tab. Additional information about the above topics as well as important health forms can be found here. If you have any health related questions at any time throughout the school year, please contact your school’s health office. If you need to contact someone about your child’s health during the summer to prepare for the upcoming school year, please contact Sonni Sellner, Supervisor of Special Services at 763-753-7013
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
7
Transportation services and policies • 2016-17 school year Independent School District 15 Transportation Department
How safe is the bus? In Independent School District 15, we pride ourselves on having a safe, top-ofthe-line fleet of buses driven by superior drivers. When you put your child on our buses, this is what you can expect: } Buses are equipped with an alarm system called “Child Reminder.” This alarm will sound in the rare event that a driver forgets to walk through the bus after turning it off. } Buses are equipped with state-of-theart video surveillance. In Minnesota, only school officials are authorized to watch in-bus video. } Buses are equipped with newly installed GPS units to track the location of the bus for student safety. } Our buses have LED lights in the stop sign and in the back of the bus for better visibility. Each of our drivers, including substitute drivers, has the following qualifications: } Has completed at least 20 hours training behind the wheel } Attends at least 8 hours of additional training each year } Has taken an awareness class on body fluids and the handling of them } Has received and cleared two background checks } Has his/her driver’s license checked through the Department of Vehicle Services at least twice a year } Has a two-way mobile device with direct connection for immediate contact with dispatch
Yearly reminders Childcare forms need to be filled out each year; previous years do not rollover. These forms are available at each elementary school, at the transportation office and on the district website at www.isd15.org/ transportation. If there is ever a change in your child’s transportation, please contact the Transportation Department immediately. Grades 6-12 will ride the early routes together. Grades K-5 will be going to East Bethel Community School, Cedar Creek Community School and St. Francis Elementary School. Kindergarten students will use elementary bus stops. Walking to a bus stop It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure the safety of their child walking to and from the bus stop. Students may be expected to walk to the bus stop or to school as follows: K-5 .4 mile 6-12 .5 mile All distances are to be measured from the end of the student’s driveway where such driveway meets the publicly maintained road.
School bus and school bus stop rules The school district school bus safety rules are to be posted on every bus. If these rules are broken, the school district’s discipline procedures are to be followed (see Policy 406). Consequences are progressive and may include suspension of bus privileges. It is the school bus driver’s responsibility to report unacceptable behavior to the school district’s Transportation Office/ School Office. Rules at the bus stop } Get to your bus stop five minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. The school bus driver will not wait for late students. } Respect the property of others while waiting at your bus stop } Keep your arms, legs and belongings to yourself } Use appropriate language. } Stay away from the street, road or highway when waiting for the bus. Wait until the bus stops before approaching the bus. } After getting off the bus, move away from the bus } If you must cross the street, always cross in front of the bus where the driver can see you. Wait for the driver to signal to you before crossing the street. } No fighting, harassment, intimidation or horseplay } No use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs Rules on the bus } Immediately follow the directions of the driver } Sit in your seat facing forward. } Talk quietly and use appropriate language } Keep all parts of your body inside the bus } Keep your arms, legs and belongings to yourself } No fighting, harassment, intimidation or horseplay } Do not throw any object } No eating, drinking or possession or use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs } Do not bring any weapon/look-alike or dangerous objects on the school bus } Do not damage the school bus Drivers are to enforce the provisions of the school bus and bus stop rules as appropriate. Students may be released from the bus at only two points: the designated bus stop or at school, except in case of an emergency or as otherwise authorized. Bus rules and discipline For infractions of the bus rules, the driver will fill out a discipline report and a letter is sent or a call is made to the parents or guardians regarding the incident. A copy of the report is sent to the school principal for their knowledge and records. The student is issued either a warning or a suspension from the bus, depending on the infraction.
Very important Students may ride only the bus to which they are assigned. Policy prohibits students from riding a friend’s bus. Changing of buses for social reasons is never allowed. Bus capacities are such that room is not available for the casual rider on other buses. PLC Late Start Days If students ride the school bus on the PLC late start days, buses will run 90 minutes later than scheduled. Call the ISD 15 Transportation Department for details at 763-753-7080. See page 3 for PLC late start dates. Moving When you move, please notify the Transportation Department so we can cancel the current transportation and add your child to a different route if needed. If you have any questions or need general student transportation information, please contact Transportation at 763-753-7080. Transportation staff is looking forward to serving you. Each subsequent offense results in an increasingly stricter discipline. Bus riding is a privilege, not a right. Abusing these rules can result in the loss of a student’s bus riding privileges. Infractions Infractions include: abuse, verbal, includes profanity; alcohol or chemicals, possession; ammunition, possession; arson; failure to follow driver’s direction; fighting; firearm or lookalike firearm; harassment, including obscene gestures; interference with safe operation of the bus; not remaining seated; spraying of cologne/ perfume/ hair spray; tampering with emergency and safety equipment; theft or knowingly possessing stolen property; throwing/shooting of objects and tobacco/tobacco products, e-cigarettes. Vandalism Vandalism on buses is not tolerated. Students are responsible for paying for damages they cause to buses. Students causing damage to a bus lose their bus riding privileges. Items not allowed on a bus: any potentially dangerous item; skis, skateboards, roller blades, etc.; helium-filled balloons/large objects that take up ⅓ or more of the bus seat; sharp objects that are not contained in a backpack; balls, marbles, anything that rolls; containers that can leak or squirt liquid; glass objects; possession or use of laser pens or pointers; fire or smoke producing items are prohibited (state rule); weapons/look-a likes of any kind are prohibited (state rule); gas cans are prohibited (state rule) and animals, dead or alive, are prohibited (state rule). Inclement weather When a decision is made to close school, all district personnel and households with students are notified with a call from the Infinite Campus Shout Point system, please make sure that all contact information is current and up to date. The district website is updated immediately after the decision has been reached to close school. Sources of information about school closing are: } Check the district website at www.isd15.org.
} Local television stations—Channels 4, 5, 9 and 11 or radio stations WCCO 830 AM and KBEK 95.5 FM } Check the ISD 15 Facebook page Joint/shared custody When both parents reside in the same school boundaries, students may ride from both residences as needed. Call the transportation office to arrange for the buses. Childcare } Childcare is defined as a location other than the student’s residence in which care is being provided in the absence of the parent or legal guardian. } A Student Transportation Form must be submitted to the transportation office if your child needs transportation from childcare. } Childcare pick-up and drop-off locations must be the same every day. } Forms must be submitted five (5) days in advance to allow for proper notification and scheduling. } Forms are available on the district website (www.isd15.org), at all elementary school offices and at the transportation office. Change in student information Please fill out a Student Transportation Form and call the Transportation Department at 763-753-7080 if there is a change in address, phone number, head of household or name. This will help keep records up-to-date and allow proper bus assignment. Forms can be found on the school district’s website at www.isd15.org/transportation. Changing routes and/or bus stops Students are assigned to bus stops and specific bus routes. Students must ride only the bus they are assigned to. Students shall board and exit the bus only at their assigned bus stop. No driver is to make changes in the pick-up or drop-off schedule for his or her route without prior authorization. No stops are to be added, deleted or moved without approval. No driver may deviate from the established route without prior permission except as required by an emergency or temporary road conditions.
8 August/September 2016 The Courier
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2016-17 Educational Benefits including school meals Independent School District 15 Nutrition Services
Independent School District 15 schools provide healthy meals each day. Regular-priced meals are listed below. Your student may qualify for educational benefits including free or reduced-price school meals. To apply, complete the enclosed Application for Educational Benefits following the instructions. A new application must be submitted each year. At public schools, your application also helps the school qualify for education funds and discounts.
May I apply if someone in my household is not a U.S. citizen? Yes. You or your children do not have to be U.S. citizens for your children to qualify for free or reduced-price school meals. What if my income is not always the same? List the amount that you normally get. If you normally get overtime, include it, but not if you only sometimes get overtime. Will the information I give be checked? Yes and we may also ask you to send written proof.
Regular Priced Meals Breakfast Prices $1.35 Elementary $1.45 Secondary Lunch Prices $2.20 Elementary $2.40 Secondary A ½ pint of milk is included with a meal. Extra milk is 50¢ per ½ pint. State funds help to pay for reducedprice school meals, so all students who are approved for either free or reducedprice school meals will receive school meals at no charge. State funds also help to pay for breakfasts for kindergarten students, so all participating kindergarten students receive breakfasts at no charge. Return your completed Application for Educational Benefits to: ISD 15 Nutrition Services 23306 Cree Street NW, Suite 103 St. Francis, MN 55070 Who can get free school meals? Children in households participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and foster, homeless, migrant and runaway children can get free school meals without reporting household income. Children can get free school meals if their household income is within the maximum income shown for their household size on the instructions. I get WIC or Medical Assistance can my children get free school meals? Children in households participating in WIC or Medical Assistance may be eligible for free school meals. Please fill out an application. Who should I include as household members? Include yourself and all other people living in the household, related or not (such as grandparents, other relatives, or friends).
How will the information be kept? Information you provide on the form and your child’s approval for school meal benefits will be protected as private data. For more information see the back page of the Application for Educational Benefits.
If I don’t qualify now, may I apply later? Yes. Please complete an application at any time if your income goes down, your household size goes up, or you start getting SNAP, MFIP or FDPIR benefits. Please provide the information requested about children’s racial identity and ethnicity, which helps to make sure we are fully serving our community. This information is not required for approval of school meal benefits. If you have other questions or need assistance completing the application, call 763-753-7015.
Instructions for Completing the
APPLICATION for EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS Complete the Application for Educational Benefits form for school year 2016-17 if any of the following applies to your household:
benefits, MFIP payments, or value of assistance received from SNAP, WIC, or FDPIR. Military: Do not include combat pay or assistance
} Any household member currently participates in the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). —OR— } The household includes one or more foster children (a welfare agency or court has legal responsibility for the child). — OR— } The total income of household members is within the guidelines shown below (gross earnings before deductions, not take-home pay). Do not include as income: foster care payments, federal education
Household Size 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Step 1 Children List all infants and children in the household, their birthdate and, if applicable, their grade and school. Attach an additional page if needed to list all children. Fill in the circle if a child is in foster care (a welfare agency or court has legal responsibility for the child). Please provide the requested information on ethnicity and race for each child. This information is not required and does not affect approval for school meal benefits. The information helps to make sure we are meeting civil rights requirements and fully serving our community. Step 2 Case Number Circle Yes or No to show whether any household member currently participates in any of the three assistance programs listed in Step 2. If you answer Yes, write in the case number and go to Step 4 (skip Step 3). If you answer No, continue on to Step 3. WIC and Medical Assistance (M.A.) do not qualify for this purpose.
Step 3 Adults / Incomes / Last 4 Digits of Social Security Number } List all adults living in the household (everyone not listed in Step 1) whether related or not, such as grandparents, other relatives, or friends. Include any adult who is temporarily away from home, like a student away at college. Attach another page if necessary. } List gross incomes before deductions, not take-home pay. Do not list an hourly wage rate. For adults with no income to report, enter a ‘0’ or leave the section blank. This is your certification (promise) that there is no income to report for these adults. } For each income, fill in a circle to show how often the income is received: each week, every other week, twice per month, or monthly. } For farm or self-employment income only, list the net income per year or month after business expenses. A loss from farm or self-
Add for each additional person
$ Per Year 21,978 29,637 37,296 44,955 52,614 60,273 67,951 75,647 7,696
from the Military Privatized Housing Initiative. The income guidelines are effective from July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017.
Maximum Total Income $ Per $ Twice $ Per Month Per Month 2 Weeks $ Per Week 1,832 916 846 423 2,470 1,235 1,140 570 3,108 1,554 1,435 718 3,747 1,874 1,730 865 4,385 2,193 2,024 1,012 5,023 2,512 2,319 1,160 5,663 2,832 2,614 1,307 6,304 3,152 2,910 1,455 642
321
296
148
employment must be listed as 0 income and does not reduce other income. } Last four digits of Social Security number – The adult household member signing the application must provide the last four digits of their Social Security number or check the box if they do not have a Social Security number. } Regular incomes to children – If any children in the household have regular income, such as SSI or part-time jobs, list the total amount of regular incomes received by all children. Do not include occasional earnings like babysitting or lawn mowing. Step 4 Signature and Contact Information An adult household member must sign the form. If you do not want your information to be shared with Minnesota Health Care Programs, check the “Don’t share” box in Step 4.
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
ISD 15 Nutrition Services 23306 Cree St. NW, Ste. 103 St. Francis, MN 55070 Phone 763-753-7015 Fax 763-753-7709
Application for Educational Benefits
School Year 2016-17 • State and Federally Funded Programs
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
White
School
Pacific Islander
Birthdate
Optional – Racial Identity * Fill in one or more circles for each child African American
Child’s Last Name
(An agency or court has legal responsibility for the child.) If yes, fill in the circle.
Optional Is the child Hispanic / Latino? If yes, fill in the circle.
Asian
MI
Foster Child?
American Indian
Child’s First Name
Grade
Step 1 List all infants, children and students through grade 12 in the household, even if they are not related. If more space is needed, attach another sheet.
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
* The full names of the racial categories are: American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander and White.
Step 2 Do any Household Members, including yourself, currently participate in any of the following assistance programs: SNAP, MFIP or FDPIR? Check one: c Yes c No Medical Assistance and WIC do not qualify. If No > Go to STEP 3. If Yes > Write in the CASE NUMBER___________________________________ : then go to STEP 4. Step 3 A. List All Adult Household Members and Household Incomes (Skip STEP 3 if you answered “yes” to STEP 2 or if all participants are foster children.)
$ $ $ $
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
$ $ $ $
Monthly
$ $ $ $
2x Month
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
Bi-weekly
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
Payments received
Pension, retirement, disability, unemployment, Veterans benefits, etc.
Weekly
Monthly
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
Net Income after business expenses. State if annual or monthly.
All Other Incomes
Monthly
2x Month
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
Public Assistance, Child Support, Alimony 2x Month
Bi-weekly
$ $ $ $
Farm and SelfEmployment
Bimonthly
Gross pay before deductions (not take-home pay).
Weekly
Do not write in an hourly wage.
Weekly
Gross Pay from Work
Adults - Full Name
For the purpose of school meal benefits, the members of your household are “Anyone who is living with you and shares income and expenses, even if not related.” List the full name of each household member not listed in Step 1 and their income(s) in whole dollars. If a person has no income, write in 0 or leave the section blank. This is your certification (promise) of no income to report. Include any college students temporarily away from home.
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
¡ ¡ ¡ ¡
B. Last four digits of signer’s Social Security Number (SSN) or no SSN (required): C. Do any of the children listed in Step 1 receive regular incomes such as SSI or wages? X X X – X X – __ __ __ __ — OR — c I don’t have a Social Security Number Weekly Bi-weekly 2X Month Monthly ¡ ¡ ¡ TOTAL regular incomes of children, if any: $ ___________ ¡
Step 4 I certify (promise) that all information on this application is true and correct and all household members and incomes are reported. I understand that this information is given in connection with receipt of federal and state funds and that school officials may verify (check) the information. I understand that if I purposely give false information, my children may lose benefits and I may be prosecuted under applicable federal and state laws. The information I provide may be shared with Minnesota Health Care Programs as allowed by state law, unless I have checked this box: c Do not share my information with Minnesota Health Care Programs. Signature of Adult Household Member (required)___________________________________________ Print Name___________________________________ Date__________________ Address______________________________________ City____________________________ Zip_____________ Home Phone__________________ Work Phone__________________ Office Use Only Total Household Size: _______ Total Income: $____________ per ________ c Income – Reduced-Price
Denied: c Incomplete c Income Too High
Is this form required? This form must be completed to apply for free or reduced-price school meals, unless: (1) Your school provides free school meals to all students without applications from households (Community Eligibility Provision, Provision 2 or Provision 3) or (2) You were notified that your children have been directly certified for school meal benefits based on foster care status or participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). Privacy Act Statement / How Information Is Used The Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act requires the information on this application. You do not have to give this information, but if you do not we cannot approve your child for free or reduced-price school meals. You must include the last four digits of the Social Security number of the adult household member who signs the application. The last four digits of the Social Security number are not required when you
Approved (check all that apply): c Case Number–Free c Foster–Free c Income–Free
Signature or Determining Official:____________________________________ Date:_________________
apply on behalf of a foster child, or you provide an MFIP, SNAP or FDPIR assistance number, or you indicate that the adult household member signing the application does not have a Social Security number. Only authorized officials will have access to the information that you provide on this form. We will use your information to determine if your child qualifies for free school meals and for administration and enforcement of the school meal programs. We may share your information with other education, health and nutrition programs to help them evaluate, fund or determine benefits for their programs, with auditors for program reviews and with law enforcement officials to help them look into violations of program rules. We require written consent from you before sharing information for other purposes. Please provide the requested information about children’s race and ethnic identity. This information is not required and does not affect approval for program benefits. We use the percentages of participants in each racial/ethnic category to check that our program is operated in a nondiscriminatory manner in compliance with federal civil rights laws
At public school districts, each student’s school meal status also is recorded on a statewide computer system used to report student data to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) as required by state law. MDE uses this information to: (1) Administer state and federal programs, (2) Calculate compensatory revenue for public schools and (3) Judge the quality of the state’s educational program. Information provided on this form may be shared with Minnesota Health Care Programs, unless the person completing this form has checked the box in Step 4 to not share information for that purpose. Nondiscrimination Statement In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices and employees and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of
communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (state or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust. html and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail to U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or (2) fax to (202) 690-7442; or (3) email to program.intake@usda.gov. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
10 August/September 2016 The Courier
Nutrition Services meals program The Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) School Board has resolved to continue the lunch/breakfast meals program for the 2016-17 school year. The ISD 15 Child Nutrition Program includes the following provisions: Participation in the Free and Reduced Lunch/Breakfast Programs are guaranteed by the United States Department of Agriculture. Nutrition Education Nutrition Services supports the Wellness Committee Initiatives by providing healthy school meals and snacks to students of ISD 15. All district families are encouraged to complete the Application for Educational Benefits (page 9) to learn their eligibility status for compensatory funding purposes in ISD 15. Please return the application to: ISD 15 Nutrition Services 23306 Cree Street NW, Suite 103 St. Francis, MN 55070 – or – to student’s school c/o Nutrition Services Free lunch and breakfast will be provided for those who qualify. Students who qualify for reduced price school meals will receive free breakfast and lunch. Offer Versus Serve Students of all grade levels must take a minimum of three of the five offered food groups when buying a lunch and three of four offered food groups when buying a breakfast. United States Department of Agriculture regulations require students to take ½ cup fruit or
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Meal Accounts
vegetable at lunch for the meal to be complete. Monthly menus are posted on the district website at www.isd15.org. Milk All meals in ISD 15 are served a choice of one percent white, chocolate skim or white skim milk. ISD 15 will furnish lactose-reduced milk upon request in writing from a parent. Extra milk is 50¢. Kindergarten snack milk is unflavored one percent or skim. À la Carte Sales Healthy à la carte choices are made available to students at St. Francis High and Middle Schools (grades 6-12). Some examples of items offered are: non-carbonated beverages, bottled water, flavored milk, baked chips, string cheese, beef jerky, granola bars, crackers, yogurt, low fat ice cream, fruit and vegetable juices. Extra portions of menued items are also for sale. À la carte offerings meet the USDA Smart Snacks in School standards. It is very important that parents establish guidelines for the amount of à la carte items students may purchase in their accounts. Note: The elementary schools (grades K-5) offer milk, juice, bottled water and an extra portion of entrée only! Pin Numbers A PIN number will be assigned to new incoming students and staff. Keep this number confidential! The owner of the account is the only person who may use the account. Lunch/Breakfast Prices Students and staff may purchase meals by the day or for the entire school year. Your building cashier will be happy to answer questions and help you decide the best method of payment for your student.
Student meal accounts are prepay accounts that must maintain a positive balance. Absolutely no negative balances will be allowed when purchasing extras or à la carte on student meal accounts! Students may deposit funds into their accounts in the morning after arriving to school. Sending cash with students is discouraged and at your own risk. Please send checks or use Visa, MasterCard or Discover, electronic check or debit card to purchase meals. Visit the district website at www.isd15.org, select Nutrition Services under Departments then Meal Payment Options or directly at district15.feepay.com or PayPams.com. There is a transaction fee to use either service. Please allow 1-2 school days for your payment to update the account balance at the school. A convenience fee will be charged when using online payments. Sending cash with your student is discouraged by ISD 15. Special note for St. Francis High School and St. Francis Middle School students: We are unable to make change on the main meal lines. Change will be deposited into the student’s account for future use. Grades K-5
Grades 6-12
Lunch (First Lunch) Full Pay $2.20 Reduced 0 Free (No charge) 0 Second Lunch $3.50 Breakfast (First Breakfast) Full Pay $1.35 Reduced (No charge) 0 Free (No charge) 0 Second Breakfast $1.90 New This Year! Kindergarten Breakfast is FREE Milk 50¢ Kindergarten Snack Milk: No charge for milk Kindergarten Snack Item: 50¢
Adult
Preschool
$2.40 0 0 $3.50
$3.50 N/A N/A $3.50
$2.20
$1.45 0 0 $1.90
$1.90 N/A N/A $1.90
$1.35
50¢
50¢
American Indian Education Program kick-off Carline Sargent
ISD 15 American Indian Education Coordinator
The Independent School District 15 American Indian Education Program will host a school year kick-off event Thursday, September 8, 5:00-7:00 p.m. Dinner will be provided and a Native art activity is planned. The event will
take place at Crossroads School & Vocational Center, 4111 Ambassador Boulevard NW in St. Francis. For more information about the American Indian Education Program, contact Carline Sargent at 763-213-1575 or carline. sargent@isd15.org.
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
11
School Board Highlights School Board Highlights June 27, 2016 Heidi Anderson
Staff writer
School Linked Mental Health Report Executive Director of the Lee Carlson Center Rob Edwards provided the Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) School Board with a report on the organization’s schoolbased programs. According to their website, the Lee Carlson Center, headquartered in Fridley, “provides exceptional and affordable mental health services for families, children, youth and adults in our community.” Edwards said that the Anoka County-centered organization currently has partnerships with the Fridley, Centennial and Columbia Heights school districts. Their staff provides out patient therapy within a school setting. The Lee Carlson Center is in their fourth year of a five year grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services and are beginning conversations with other Anoka County school districts as they look toward the next funding cycle. Schools for Equity in Education Schools for Equity in Education (SEE) Executive Director Brad Lundell provided a report on the legislative session and SEE’s goals for the next year. According to their website, SEE is an association of 59 school districts, including ISD 15, in Minnesota that receive minimum state aid based on student population and have low property wealth. Lundell provided data that showed ISD 15 receives $800 less than the state average when it comes to general education revenue; he said that closing gaps like these for school districts is one of SEE’s goals for the next year. Other goals include gaining greater support from the state for special education by eliminating the need for districts to pay for state mandated special education and making school levies more affordable to taxpayers in low property wealth districts.
Johnson Controls Performance Contract Assessment Superintendent Troy Ferguson and Maintenance Department supervisor Chris Wirz presented the Board with an assessment of the Johnson Controls Performance Contract. In 1995, the district entered into a 15-year contract with Johnson Controls at St. Francis High School where maintenance improvements were made at a budget neutral cost and there were guaranteed savings. During that time, the district saw an excess in savings of $628,206. With the Long-Term Facilities and Maintenance Revenue project, some expenses are not covered. The Board gave their approval to look into similar contract options, like the one in the past with Johnson Controls, where the district can have these projects covered at a budget neutral cost. Superintendent Report Superintendent Ferguson said that a committee at St. Francis High School is looking into having higher weighting of grades after receiving feedback from students and parents. Ferguson said that the district is going to take requests from teachers to be released from their contracts after the deadline on a case by case basis. Originally, the district would not release teachers from their contracts after the March deadline in order to be consistent. After discussing this issue with other
School Board Perspective
Barb Jahnke ISD 15 School Board Member
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
Continued On Page 12
School is starting again and we are filled with feelings of excitement and anticipation. Thoughts about old friends and possibilities for new relationships make their way to the forefront of our minds. We prepare for the new school year by making decisions about supplies, clothing and haircuts, which gives us some assurance of control. We can also feel good about going back to a place where we are included and belong because the people making the big decisions have created a place that welcomes and respects us. Yet some students, parents, teachers and administrators wear faces that express foreboding and anxiousness. Some of the looks are created because of personal concerns, which may or may not be remedied at a future time. Since the school system has limited rights to intervene or correct personal issues, we may tend to dismiss or overlook this entire group of people. The Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) School Board knows we cannot discount all school frustrations as personal. Some of the unhappy people do make it to School Board meetings to identify the schools themselves as the problem. I actually see this communication as a good thing. If we do not know, we can do nothing about a concern. Our Board is dedicated to improving our school climate and atmosphere to meet the needs of a changing and diverse population. The School Board approved the Strategic Plan for ISD 15 on May 11, 2015. It is interesting to note that three of the eight core values created by our plan for the future directly identify an inclusive and collaborative school system. They include: } Trust and respect are fundamental for thriving relationships. } Our community flourishes when individuals, families and organizations collaborate. } Open exchanges of ideas and communicated planning are integral for continuous improvement. These are nice words, but we need to ask ourselves how we do this. What do we have in place, or what avenues can we create to facilitate our goals? I have been reflecting on this question for some time now, basically since the Strategic Plan was completed. The words of the Strategic Plan sounded oh so familiar to me. Initially I thought the sense of a well-known philosophy was due to my background as a school counselor, with its similar perspective, but it was more—much more. I researched the district website and found very similar wording and concepts in a policy that we still have in place. Compare these statements to our core values: } Shared decision making is a collaborative planning and problem-solving process which is an integral part of effective schools with significant potential for improving student learning. } The School Board of Independent School District 15 endorses shared decision making to encourage teachers, administrators, non-licensed staff, parents, students and community members to become partners in the goal to improve student learning. These statements were taken from Policy 201 – Shared Decision Making, Site Based Management, currently on our books. After review of Policy 201, I was encouraged to find a tool or avenue with a voice for all. It is one way to create an atmosphere of acceptance and respect, where diverse views are welcomed and encouraged. The ISD 15 School Board will need to reexamine Policy 201, align it with our Strategic Plan, define the scope of decision-making and reinvigorate site management to meet our current needs. It seems obvious that this review might create strong opinions in opposing directions. That is exactly what I’m encouraging here, because I believe that when all voices are heard, we make better decisions.
School Board Members
School Board Meeting Schedule
Marsha Van Denburgh Chairwoman 763-753-6653
School board meetings are held in the Community Room at Central Services Center, located at 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis.
Janet Hunt Vice Chairwoman
763-221-5341
Barbara Jahnke Clerk 763-753-6846 Amy Kelly Treasurer 763-744-8458 Suzanne Erkel Director
763-413-1195
David Roberts Director Scott Schwarz Director 763-898-6985 Email: schoolboard@isd15.org
HOST HOST AN AN EXCHANGE EXCHANGE STUDENT STUDENT TODAY! TODAY! (for 3, 5 or 10 months) (for 3, 5 or 10 months)
Monday, August 8 & 22 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, September 12 & 26 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. Monday, October 10 & 24 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Marco from Italy, 17 yrs. Marcosoccer from and Italy,would 17 yrs. Loves like Loves andbaseball. would like to learnsoccer to play to learnistoa play baseball. Marco boy scout and Marco the is a outdoors. boy scout and enjoys enjoys the outdoors.
Make this year the most exciting, Make this year exciting, enriching yearthe evermost for you and enriching yearWelcome ever for you and your family. a high your family. Welcome high school student, 15-18ayears school 15-18Norway, years old, fromstudent, Italy, France, old, from Italy, France, Norway, Denmark, Spain, Germany, Denmark, Spain, Germany, Brazil, Thailand or China as part Brazil, Thailand as part of your familyorforChina a school of your for amake school year (orfamily less) and an year (or less) andfor make overseas friend life.an overseas friend for life. For more information or to Foryour moreown information to select exchangeorstudent select your please own exchange call: student please call:
Julie from Denmark, 16 yrs. Julie from Denmark, 16 yrs. Enjoys gymnastics, swimming Enjoys gymnastics,She’s swimming and photography. positive, and loving photography. positive, fun and easyShe’s to get fun loving along with.and easy to get along with.
Courtney at 720-209-1145 or Marcy at 1-800-888-9040 (Toll Free) or e-mail us at info@world-heritage.org For privacy reasons, photos photos of us actual Marcy at 1-800-888-9040 (Tollabove Free)areornote-mail atstudents info@world-heritage.org
Live streaming and video archives of school board meetings are available at www.isd15.org/sbvideo WH 4x4 color 0614.indd 4
For privacy reasons, photos above are not photos of actual students
www.whhosts.com www.whhosts.com World Heritage is a public benefit, non-profit World Heritagebased is a public benefit, non-profit organization in Laguna Beach, CA. organization based in Laguna Beach, CA.
7/1/14 6:22 AM
12 August/September 2016 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Reading Corps and Math Corps tutors needed Christine Lashinski
EBCS Reading Corps tutor
I recently finished my first year as a Reading Corps tutor at East Bethel Community School (EBCS). There are numerous reasons why people join Reading Corps. People join to build their resume, explore education as a career, help students and grow their professional skills and network. I had additional help as a child and I wanted students to have the same opportunity for growth that I was given. This year was an ideal opportunity to give back to my community. My goal in starting this year
was that each student I worked with would gain confidence and joy in reading. I have grown as much or more than the students as they help me remember to be curious and to have a good time while learning. As a full-time tutor, I work 40 hours a week as well as volunteering at the elementary school and in my community. I work with students from kindergarten through thirdgrade one-on-one for 20 minutes, five days a week. I provide extra support to help students practice their reading skills and grow in confidence. Students exit the Minnesota
Love Sweet Love Designer wedding cakes and desserts that taste as divine as they look. Call for an appointment today.
Cherise Foley 763-753-9696
22001 Lake George Blvd. NW Anoka Wedding, Bridal Shower, Birthday, Baptism cakes, bars & much more!
Patriot Lanes Bar and Grill
3085 Bridge Street St. Francis 763-753-4011 Hours 11:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.
Check us out at patriotlanesbarandgrill.com
Fall bowling leagues now forming!
Monday Open to Your Fun League Tuesday Men’s Nights Wednesday Mixed Doubles Nights Wednesday Women’s Day Thursday Women’s Nights Friday Afternoon Youth
Friday Mixed Couples (short season)
Saturday Mixed Couples (every other Saturday)
Sunday Open to Your Fun League
Reading Corps program when they reach their goals and they are on target for reading at their grade level. I am so proud of how hard students work and it has been thrilling to watch their skills grow. The training and coaching Reading Corps provides is superb. I went into last school year with training, materials and incredible support. I have help from my internal coach, teachers and staff at EBCS, along with my Reading Corps team and master coach. All have been supportive every step of the way and I am so thankful to the teachers and staff of EBCS. I am grateful for the opportunity to witness students’ growth as they become even better readers. The Reading Corps program tests or benchmarks students who have been a part of the program to monitor their progress. One student who had been in Reading Corps a previous year and had exited after meeting her goals told me, “I did this last year. I know this.” And she did. We need Reading Corps and Math Corps tutors. The program’s goal is to help all Minnesota students become successful readers by the end of third-grade. Nearly one in five Minnesota third-graders are failing to reach basic levels of literacy. By becoming a Reading Corps tutor, you can impact students’ lives by boosting their skills and preparing them for reading successfully by the end of
Minnesota Reading Corps tutor Christine Lashinski completed her first year as a tutor at East Bethel Community School. The Minnesota Reading Corps program is currently looking for tutors.
Jamie Studnicka, EBCS Community Relations Coordinator
third-grade. According to their website, Minnesota Reading Corps provides direct services to over 35,000 students in 900+ sites. Tutors commit to eleven months of service. Benefits include impacting lives, most of all, your own. Fulltime tutors receive a living allowance of $544 biweekly and part-time tutors receive $272 biweekly, as well as an educational award of $5,775 for full-time and $2,887 for part-time that can be used for college loans or to continue your education. If a tutor is 55 or older that educational award may be gifted to their child or grandchild. For more information or to apply, please visit the website at www.MinnesotaReadingCorps. org or 866-859-2825.
Midwest Family Counseling, P.A.
Individual – Relationship – Adolescent – Adult – Child
763-753-9459
St. Francis Forest Lake Lighthouse Building Franklin Building 23038 Rum River Blvd. NW 69 North Lake Street BHP – Preferred One – UCare – MHCP
E SA K A B & H LU N C
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Thursday, August 11 • 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Friday, August 12 • 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Saturday, August 13 • 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Begin collecting items on August 3.
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Goodwill offering on sale items!
(Items still left on Saturday are FREE)
19921 Nightingale Street, Oak Grove • 763-753-2011
Cannot accept: cribs, car seats, highchairs, TVs, microwaves, air conditioners, exercise equipment, stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers or construction materials.
Bruce W. Barton, M.Div., M.A., LMFT, LP
Retirement Investments 23847 Johnson Street NE, Suite# 2 East Bethel, MN 55005
763-753-6614 www.highlandmoneymgmt.com
College Planning Life Insurance
David Johnson Serving the local community since 1999.
Highland Money Management is independent of Parkland Securities, LLC & SPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sigma Planning Corporation, a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Parkland Securities, LLC. Member FINRA & SIPC.
Continued From Page 11
School Board Highlights superintendents, Ferguson said that most districts allow teachers to be released after the deadline if a suitable replacement can be found. 2016-17 Budget Business Services Director Scott Nelson presented the budget report for the 2016-17 fiscal year. For the General Fund, the total revenue is $50,536,958 and total expenditures are $50,477,810. The unassigned/unrestricted total for the General Fund budget is $2,717,200, which meets the District’s policy of five percent of expenditures. For Nutrition Services, estimated revenue total up to $2,486,236 and estimated expenditures equal $2,486,557. The estimated total revenue for the Community Education budget is $2,064,952 and the estimated total for expenditures is $2,143,577. Debt services is the fund where the district pays principal and interest payments on bonded authority, which includes building and alternate facility bonds and other postemployment benefits. The total estimated revenue is $6,332,734 and the total expenditures equal $6,991,465. The total revenue for the district from all funds is $62,245,880 and the total expenditures are $63,234,409. The Board unanimously approved the budget. A link to Independent School District 15 School Board minutes can be found under the School Board tab at www. isd15.org.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
Community & Business House Speaker Daudt, State Representatives meet with veterans in St. Francis Heidi Anderson
Staff Writer
Minnesota House Speaker Kurt Daudt (R-Crown) and House Representatives Tom Hackbarth (R-Cedar) and Bob Dettmer (R-Forest Lake) met with veterans June 30 at the St. Francis American Legion Post #622 to discuss new legislature passed on veterans’ issues. Rep. Dettmer, Chair of the House Veterans Affairs Division, said St. Francis was his ninth stop around the state as he met with veterans to discuss what changes they will see as a result of this new legislation. He said that one of the major accomplishments was eliminating taxes on the pensions of veterans. According to Rep. Dettmer, Minnesota was only one of five states left in the country that still had that tax. Rep. Dettmer said that these new laws also make it
easier for veterans to start small businesses through a certification program and veterans can immediately qualify for higher education scholarships. According to Rep. Hackbarth, the legislature has worked together to support veterans over the past two years. Speaker Daudt said that all of the feedback he has received has been positive and that these new laws will also be a positive for the state’s economy. "The veteran tax cut puts more money back in the pockets of those who fought for our nation and the other bills passed over the last two years help make it easier for veterans to transition back to civilian life, find employment and start small businesses," Speaker Daudt said. Rep. Dettmer said that in the past, Minnesota was listed as one of the states in which
veterans should not retire, but he predicts that will change. Minnesota House Representative Tom Hackbarth and House Speaker Kurt Daudt speak with veterans at the St. Francis American Legion Post #622 June 30.
Andrew Wagner, Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Minnesota House Republican Caucus
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 Wednesday, August 10; and Thursdays, September 8, October 13, November 10 and December 8 at 10 am to 11:30 am at the Anoka County Human Services Center, 1201 89th Avenue, 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.
A Taste of Uptown In Your Hometown Café by Day, Bistro by Night
Marsha Van Denburgh For Anoka County Commissioner - District 1 ote Van Denburgh
• ISD 15 School Board Member • Anoka County Resident for 34 years • Small business owner • Anoka County Foster Parent for 16 years • Mother of 9 children: 6 adopted from foster care • Follow Me! Twitter: @MDenburgh, Facebook, Instagram: MarshaVandenburgh
Respected • Persistent • Fiscally Responsible The foregoing is a prepared and paid for by Paid for by Volunteers for Van Denburgh 24443 Verdin Street NW, St. Francis, MN 55070. 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.
Fresh from the farm produce!
Every Friday 2:00-6:00 p.m. Now through September 30!
Eagle Park Downtown Isanti
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Beverages
15190 Bluebird Street NW Andover 763-205-3307 www.briotwincities.com
Dog Friendly Patio
south of Main Street behind Isanti Custom Meats
Contact Katie Everett • 763-444-5512 isantiparks@cityofisanti.us isantifamilyfarmersmarket.org
Located across from the Andover YMCA
13
14 August/September 2016 The Courier The new 2016-17 East Bethel Royalty were selected and crowned July 16 during East Bethel Booster Days. They will spend the next year volunteering and traveling around Minnesota and western Wisconsin representing the community. Pictured are (L-R): Front row: East Bethel Little Miss Mackenzie Norling and East Bethel Little Miss Cindy Jane Tembreull; back row: Miss East Bethel Sarah Farrier and East Bethel Princess Britany Cich.
Kellie Hallstrom, East Bethel Scholarship Program
| www.the-courier.org
Absentee voting: no excuses needed
North Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf happenings
Martha Weaver
Community Development Coordinator, NACE
Anoka County Public Information Officer
Anyone can vote prior to Primary or General Election Day by completing an absentee ballot. In the past, voters had to have a reason why they couldn’t physically get to their polling place on Election Day. Today, no explanation is necessary. How to vote absentee Complete an absentee ballot application— find it at anokacounty.us/absenteevoting or call 763-323-5275 to have one mailed to you—and return it by mail, fax, or email. An absentee ballot will be mailed to you within two business days, along with voting instructions and a return envelope. In-person absentee voting You may also cast your absentee ballot in person at your city hall or at the government center in Anoka during normal business hours, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. the Saturday prior to each election. Go to anokacounty.us/elections for more information.
Joanne Yackel
NACE Foodshelf StriXe Out Hunger Fundraiser The North Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf (NACE) will hold a fundraiser for food on Friday, October 14 at Ham Lake Lanes. Get your team ready and watch for upcoming details for a family fun night. Want to volunteer? Opportunities to serve with NACE include: } Work with clients during food and clothing distribution } Pick up food donations and deliver them to NACE
} Weighing, sorting food and clothing and restocking shelves } Front desk/receptionist } Social Media/Website Updates } Fundraising/Events and your new ideas! NACE Foodshelf and Clothing Closet hours are: } Mondays 9:00 a.m.-noon } Tuesdays 5:00-8:00 p.m. } Wednesdays 1:00-4:00 p.m. } Thursdays 8:00-11:00 a.m. To find out more about NACE Foodshelf and Clothing Closet call 763-434-7685 or visit www.nacefoodshelf.org.
46th Annual
Nowthen Threshing Show August 19, 20, 21 7415 Old Viking Boulevard • Nowthen f
turin a e
g
2016 Admission Prices:
General Show Information Sharon Wilhelm 763-913-1238
Recorded Information Hotline 952-253-5774
www.nowthenthreshing.com
Daily and special attractions Friday Night, August 19 Pull starts at 6:00 p.m.
Saturday Night, August 20 Pull starts at 6:00 p.m.
5 hours of tractor pulling each night hundreds of antique and classic tractors
Come see your favorite old tractors compete! Show Feature for 2017
Caterpillar
For more information, contact: Josh Wilhelm 763-370-1321 or jwilhelm@frontiernet.net Kurt Johnson 612-790-3554 or oldgjd@comcast.net
Food & Beverage Service
Daily Pancake Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Kettle Corn • Hot Dogs & Burgers • Pork Chops Gyros and much more
Bringing the Past to the Present
Friday, August 19 “Bib Overalls Day” 7:00-10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 5:00-9:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Adults: $10 per day • $20 per weekend 12 & under FREE when accompanied by an adult
2-Night Tractor Pull
Schedule of Events
Special Attractions
Restoration of a One-Room School Steam Traction Engines • Gas Engines Antique Cars & Trucks • Shingle Mill • Plowing Sawmill • Lathe Mill • Threshing 1920s Red Crown Gas Station General Store • Print Shop • Free Train Rides Blacksmith Shop • Large Flea Market Primitive Camping available on-site Log House & Barn • Historical Church Milwaukee Road Depot & Memorabilia Live Music & Entertainment Daily Chain Saw Artist Daily Parade of Power at 2 p.m. Tractor Pull Friday at 6 p.m. & Saturday at 6 p.m. Sunday Church Service 9 a.m. Shuttle Service on Grounds Anoka County Master Gardeners
Children’s Activities
Various supervised hands-on activities, including Children’s Barnyard, featuring Tommy’s Zoo
Craft & Activities Building
Spinning • Quilting • Weaving • Pottery Various Handicrafts • Sunday Quilt Drawing
Pancake Breakfast Music by Blue Drifters Parade of Power Music by Just Right Band Tractor Pull
Saturday, August 20 “Favorite Logo Shirt Day”
7:00-10:00 a.m. Pancake Breakfast 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Music by Now & Then Band 2:00 p.m. Parade of Power 5:00-9:00 p.m. Music by Alan Godage & Sundown 6:00 p.m. Tractor Pull
Sunday, August 21 “Favorite Hat Day”
7:00-10:00 a.m. Pancake Breakfast 9:00 a.m. Non-Denominational Church Service 12:15-2:00 p.m. Square Dancing 2:00 p.m. Parade of Power 3:30 p.m. Kiddie Pedal Pull Schedule of events or performers subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control.
Golf Cart Rentals Available 952-253-5774
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
Isanti Rodeo & Jubilee Days wraps up another successful event Melissa Bettendorf
Operations Director, North 65 Chamber of Commerce
A special thank you to all the volunteers, businesses and community organizations that come together to make the Isanti Rodeo & Jubilee Days a success each year! Jubilee Days Chair: Dave Englund Rodeo Chair: Tom Pagel Isanti Ambassador Program: Kirsten Knutson, Amanda Wichman & Taylor Norberg Heritage Corral: Jan Peterson Parade: Brian Strike Family Fitness Run/Walk: Heidi Leitha Kids Activities: Sue Beckman Corn Feed/Turtle Races: Joe Mau City of Isanti Public Works, Police Department and Isanti Firefighters Rodeo Association Parade winners Congratulations to the Isanti Rodeo Jubilee Day parade winners: Ambassadors Choice: Albertville Royalty Best Commercial: Northland Landscaping and Nursery Best Non-Commercial: Isanti County 4-H Robotics Team Most Creative: Country Camping Tent and RV Park Best Horse Group: Isanti County 4-H Drill Team Best 18 & Under: Cambridge Isanti Hockey Association Best Visiting Royalty: Fridley 49ers Ambassadors Mayor’s Choice: Cambridge Isanti Hockey Association
Marching Bands Awards 1st Place: 728 Cadets Marching Band 2nd Place: St. MichaelAlbertville High School 3rd Place: Hibbing High School 4th Place: St. Francis High School Best Color Guard: 728 Cadets Marching Band Best Drumline: 728 Cadets Marching Band Isanti Outhouse Races This year’s Outhouse Races were sponsored by Absolute Portable Restrooms, owner Ray Nash. Regular Division 1st Place: Isanti Redbirds 2nd Place: Bucket Brigade, Isanti Firefighters/Absolute Portable Restrooms 3rd Place: Isanti Ambassador Candidates Junior Division (3 kids ages 12-16 + 1 adult) 1st Place: Baby Birds 2nd Place: Star Turds 3rd Place: Poop Patrol All Junior Division participants received ice cream compliments of The Parlor (www.findtheparlor.com). Thanks to Federated Coop for donating feed for the slop pool. Don’t miss the action next year. Follow us on Facebook @ IsantiOuthouseRaces. There are Outhouses available for your team to use/decorate. Contact the chamber office at 763-689-2505 or visit www.north65chamber.com.
Nowthen Heritage Festival Saturday, September 24
Nowthen Park
Corner of County Roads 5 & 22 in Nowthen
FREE n issio Adm
Arts & Crafts Sale Kids Activities Hayrides • Food Vendors Music All Day • Disc Golf Demo Antique Tractor/Historical Display Viking Tree Biggest Pumpkin Contest Tommy’s Petting Zoo Giant Slide
8:00 a.m. until Dusk Join us for a day of FUN! Pancake Breakfast............................ 8-11 a.m. Business Expo.......................... 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Scarecrow Contest Winner Announced sponsored by Pine River Bank.................. Noon Fire Department Open House........ Noon-4 p.m. Catered Dinner................................... 5-7 p.m. For more information visit
NowthenHeritageFestival.com
Fireworks at Dusk
15
Alexandra House to host Walk for Hope Tina Bronson
Communications Marketing Director
Alexandra House will hold the 12th annual Walk for Hope on Saturday, September 24 at Bunker Hills Regional Park in Anoka. The Walk for Hope is a family and pet-friendly event that includes a 5K fun run, a 2-mile walk, children’s activities and community and health resources from across Anoka County. Last year, over 550 community members took part and raised over $55,000 for Alexandra House’s programs and services. Event details: } Registration, 8:00-9:00 a.m. } Children’s Area & Resource Fair at 8:00-11:00 a.m. } Event Kick-off at 9:00 a.m. } 5K Fun Run/2M Walk at 9:30 a.m. } Bunker Hills Regional Park, Pavilion #3 } 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW, Andover, MN 55304 } Fees are $35 for adults and $10 for children ages 6-18 (prices increase after 9/1) Kids 5 and younger are free Online and same-day registration are available. To register go to www. alexandrahouse.org. Domestic and sexual violence are local, national and international problems.
Nationally, one in three women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime; one in four will experience sexual violence. This walk is an excellent way to learn how communities can come together to keep all families safe and
work toward a violence-free future. Sponsorship opportunities are now available and can be found online at www.alexandra. house.org or contact Tina Bronson at 763-656-1363 or tbronson@alexandrahouse.org.
18th Annual City of Ramsey
Happy Days THURSDAY, September 8 Taste of Happy Days
Saturday, September 10
Pancake Breakfast • 5K Run & Youth Fun Run Family Bike Tour • Wellness Van Car Show • Kids Fun & Activities Most Food & Beverage Vendors • Kids Stage events are Business/Craft Expo • Parade Dance Caravan • Bingo Thank You Ramsey Fire Dept. Chili Cook-Off Sponsors! Magician/Comedian Jerry Frasier Live Music by Hitchville • Fireworks
FREE!
SUNDAY, September 11 9-11 Memorial Golf Tournament
LOCATION 7550 Sunwood Drive NW – Ramsey, MN 55303 Within The COR, Ramsey’s Downtown
Please visit cityoframsey.com/happy-days
for more information on volunteer, sponsorship and event participation opportunities.
16 August/September 2016 The Courier
Go exploring for ghosts in the Halloween Capital of the World
Business Spotlight
Heidi Anderson Staff Writer
American Family Insurance, Mary Dresch Agency, Inc. Many families and businesses around St. Francis trust Mary Dresch Agency, Inc., a contracted American Family Insurance agency, with much of their insurance policy needs. The four licensed agents focus on excellent customer service and have been recognized for it four years running with an American Star award. American Family Insurance offers a variety of policies to cover both personal and commercial needs. Staff can also write life, health and disability insurance. Their customers range from 16-year-olds getting their license to senior citizens purchasing life insurance. The Mary Dresch Agency Inc. is an active member of the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce. Staff is also planning a customer appreciation day to celebrate 20 years in the St. Francis community. Licensed agent Tori Larson recently wrapped up her reign as an ambassador for the city of East Bethel, where she participated in many events throughout the community. Mary Dresch Agency Inc. is located at 3747 Bridge Street in Pictured (L-R) are: JP O’Neill, Mary Dresch, Joe Dresch and Tori St. Francis. Larson the four licensed agents who serve customers of Mary Dresch Agency, Inc. The Courier Photo
Vickie Wendel
ACHS Program Manager
Stories abound in Anoka of odd happenings and eerie encounters. There is a house where the rocking chair rocks with no one sitting in it. A business in town has employees who won’t enter parts of the building because of the woman seen only in a mirror. There are doors that lock themselves, displays that change on their own, cold drafts…might they all speak of things unexplained? Anoka County Historical Society (ACHS) costumed tour guides will take you on a walk through historic neighborhoods of Anoka. You’ll view homes (from the outside) and businesses that have been privy to some unexplained events, while your guide shares real stories that have been brought to ACHS by the people who live and work in these buildings. Sixty percent history, forty percent folklore; these stories are just part of the fun. To celebrate the 13th anniversary of the walking tour, the ACHS and Ghost Tour Guides
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are introducing new stories. All tours originate from the ACHS and Library, 2135 3rd Avenue North, Anoka. The tour route is 15 blocks around Anoka city streets and lasts about one and a half hours. Tours are scheduled on Thursdays and Saturdays from May through August. In September and October, we have added tours each Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening. There will also be tours on MondayThursday during the week of Halloween. Ticket prices are $9 for adults, $7 for children (6–17) and $7 for ACHS members. Call us at 763-421-0600, for group tour information and reservations. ACHS is also partnering with Groupon throughout the summer on Thursday and Saturday nights. For groups unable to walk the route, ACHS offers a historic Ghosts of Anoka “virtual tour” presentation. Contact us for more information. For more information or to reserve a spot on the tour, call 763-421–0600 or visit anokacountyhistory.org.
Downtown Isanti Street Dances Downtown Isanti • 1st Avenue NW & Main Street Alternate location if inclement weather is the Isanti Indoor Arena.
Food and s drink sale on-site
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The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
17
Body cameras: a new tool for law enforcement James Stuart
Anoka County Sheriff
Within the Anoka County Sheriff ’s Office, we have always strived to ensure the work we do exceeds expectations and preserves the public trust. Public perception of our office plays a key role in that effort. Consequently, I have been paying close attention to the ongoing national debate about the use of body cameras by law enforcement. I want to ensure that when the time comes to implement such a program in Anoka County, it will be done correctly, with proper consideration given to every aspect of such an undertaking. Studies have shown that both officer and citizen conduct improves when their interaction is recorded. Officer complaints generally decrease when cameras are worn. Additionally, the recordings allow law enforcement agencies to better assess and resolve complaints and identify training or personnel issues. There is, however, a price to be paid. In addition to the actual cost of the equipment, there are significant ongoing expenses related to software, hardware, storage and management of the equipment and data. This investment in technology is becoming more of a societal expectation as we venture further into our “CSI”culture.
The retention and distribution of the recorded data is an area that requires careful planning to ensure that appropriate rules and safeguards are in place. There are also evidentiary considerations related to criminal cases that could affect the outcome if the data is not handled appropriately. Similarly, privacy issues related to mental health or crisis calls must be balanced to protect those involved. As we work to ensure that we develop and adhere to model policies and guidelines, we are also researching the best practices for each area of implementation. We know that with real world limitations, a body camera system will not meet every need or capture every aspect of reality. But it
accomplishes that goal. As a result, the Anoka County Sheriff ’s Office will deploy the use of body cameras for uniformed patrol deputies in early 2017. While the new state law does not require that body cameras be implemented, it does clearly define how the cameras are to be used, requires written policy and audits of the data and provides guidelines for the
retention and destruction of data. The primary reason the Anoka County Sheriff ’s Office is introducing body cameras is to offer further assurance of our desire to be transparent and accountable to the citizens we proudly serve. That has always been our goal; this is a natural next step that we gladly take.
Correction from July issue In last month’s Business Spotlight about Gerdin Auto & Tire, it said they have been towing for the city of St. Francis for two years. Gerdin Auto & Tire has actually provided towing services for the city for 20 years.
VOTE!
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will serve as a valuable tool to help fill in the gaps. I believe there is a general desire by the public to ensure transparency of law enforcement through the use of body cameras. Within the profession, peace officers also wish to use cameras because they want public support. Officers are very aware that cameras substantially support the actions of officers in the vast majority of cases. However, because it is also my role to ensure the rights of all our citizens are safeguarded, I did not intend to implement a body camera program until a law was in place that would properly protect everyone who may be on a deputy’s recording. I’m happy to say that new body camera legislation recently signed into state law
Scrambled Eggs Egg Bake French Toast Stix Au Gratin Potatoes Biscuits & Gravy Waffles Smoked Ham/Bacon Breakfast Potatoes Sausage & more Made to Order Omelette $2 more Fresh Baked All-You-Can-Eat $999 $ 99 Pastries $1 more Kids 4
General Election Tuesday, November 8
Dedicated to Making The City of St. Francis Fiscally Responsible and Transparent • Balanced Budget Approach • Lower Taxpayer Burdens • 12 Year Military Veteran • 5 Deployments • 7+ Years active member of the St. Francis Fire Department • Endorsed by local residents and businesses
The foregoing is a prepared and paid for by Robert Bauer, 23246 Kerry Street NW, St. Francis, MN 55070. 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.
Childcare Center 763-753-5010 • www.kidscountrychildcare.com 23256 St. Francis Blvd. NW, St. Francis Proudly accepting Child Care Assistance
Weekly Events & Specials Monday Bingo 6:30 p.m., Wing Special Tuesday Texas Hold ’Em 6:30 p.m., Tacos Wednesday Cribbage 6:30 p.m., Chef ’s Choice Thursday Bike Night, Juicy Lucy, Burger Basket Specials 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
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L A K E S I D E G R I L L E New Menu! New Owners! Check out our beautiful wedding and events center by the lake.
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• Potatoes • Sweet Corn • Beans • Beets • Peppers • Carrots • Radishes • Dill • Tomatoes • Onions • Zucchini • Cucumbers • Honey, Syrup, Jams, Jellies & Popcorn
Fresh Summer Fruit
• Watermelon • Peaches • Muskmelon • Berries
Gardening & Landscape Supplies • Bird Baths, Feeders & Seed • Lawn Ornaments • Pottery • Gifts & Greeting Cards • Landscape Rock & Mulches • Insecticides & Fungicides • Fertilizer
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3 miles south of Isanti on Hwy. 65 & 265th
763-444-5725 OPEN 7 Days A Week
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18 August/September 2016 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Conservation group working for the future
The St. Francis Area Women of Today are sponsoring the
sixteen committee members and over 500 members of the chapter. Committee members are committed to helping save and improve green spaces in our area for the enjoyment of future generations. The majority of funds raised are due to the annual banquet held each fall at the St. Francis American Legion. A night of camaraderie with other likeminded members and families of the chapter results in additional funds for the project account.
acre mark, adding 35 acres of restored upland prairie and 22 acres that will remain in grasses as a seasonal wetland. Unhappy with how the Previous owners Mike and money raised by their Kathy Wyatt and Robert efforts was spent outside of Hokanson were extremely Minnesota, a group of local willing sellers and are very conservationists disbanded excited for the public to have their association with Ducks the same hunting opportunities Unlimited and established and experiences they had the Cedar Creek Chapter of growing up in the area. the Minnesota Waterfowl Funds used to purchase 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Association (MWA) in 2007. this land came in the form Now the money raised is spent of a Conservation Partners locally to help protect the area Participating? Legacy (CPL) grant. Total CPL where members live. There are Post your address on funding of $171,000 the St. Francis Area was used to purchase Women of Today this land with a $15,000 match of nonFacebook event page. state funds provided by Minnesota Deer Hunter’s Associates (MDHA) Rum River Chapter, North Suburban Chapter 0 mber 1 te p and Isanti County e S y, Saturda Chapter through each chapter’s local Have fun and make a fundraising efforts. difference—join Other contributing St. Francis Area partners included Women of Today. National Wild Turkey Federation, Isanti Pictured are some Cedar Creek Chapter members accepting Minnesota Waterfowl Association Chapter of the Year award in 2014. Submitted photo County Pheasants Forever, Anoka County There have been two projects Pheasants Forever and MWA involving the Bethel Wildlife Cedar Creek Chapter. Jeff Management Area (WMA). Olson, project manager for the The Bethel WMA is comprised CPL grant, has been working of 699 acres of open hunting in conjunction with the Area The East Bethel Booster Days Committee would land just 30 miles north of Wildlife Management office of like to thank the sponsors who made our event possible. the Twin Cities. There is great the Minnesota Department of Without the good will of our local businesses and habitat within the Bethel Natural Resources to complete groups who contributed we could not make this great WMA for many game species this acquisition. Olson event happen. including deer, pheasant, applauds the local hunters and turkey and waterfowl. A recent conservation organizations for Thank you, we appreciate all that you have done! acquisition of 57 acres will put making the choice to support Central Trailer Sales • Central Truck Service, Inc. Bethel WMA over the 700MDHA through sponsorship, Chops, Inc. • City of East Bethel Classic Construction, Inc. • Connexus Energy Coon Lake Community Center and Seniors East Bethel Fire Relief Association Eckberg Lammers, Attorneys at Law EJ’s Bar and Bottle Shoppe Go for It Liquor and Gas Station Hakanson Anderson Engineering Hidden Haven Golf Club North Country Concrete, Inc. Osborne Development, Inc. • Plexus Slim Route 65 Pub and Grub Viking Meadows Golf Course WSB & Associates Stewart Naaden
St. Francis
Minnesota Waterfowl Association, Cedar Creek Chapter
City Wide
Garage
Sale Saturday, September 10
East Bethel Booster Days
Thank You!
donations and attending local fundraisers. The Cedar Creek Chapter has also helped control the water flow in the WMA through the installation of a beaver-proof water control leveler in July 2009. A project to purchase land in Oak Grove for a WMA fell through last year. At the state level, here are some accomplishments of the association: } MWA has been a leader in waterfowl conservation and habitat restoration since 1967. } MWA members initiated and championed the passage of the Minnesota Duck Stamp legislation that has put over $16 million into our state’s waterfowl resources } Since 2009, the MWA has received almost $3 million in CPL grants, money spent on habitat projects all over the state and has restored roughly 12,000 acres } MWA Chapters contribute to numerous projects all over the state each year } Youth programs include: Woodie Camp, Advanced Woodie Camp, Young Waterfowlers Program, Youth Waterfowl Camp with Three Rivers Park District } MWA collaborates on the annual MWA symposium } MWA hosts the MWA Hall of Fame and Conservation awards banquet each year To learn more about the MWA Cedar Creek Chapter, please attend the next banquet September 22 and meet committee and fellow members.
The Hunt Begins…
August 12, 13, 14 & 19, 20, 21
er Da ost
E
t Be
N
July 15-16, 2016
as
Fri & Sat 9-6 • Sun 9-5
ys
Bo
Thank you also to the volunteers and civic groups who voluntarily serve to make the East Bethel Booster Days Event happen every year!
t h e l, M
763-427-0944
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
19
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge thanks dedicated Adopt-a-Road volunteers Michelle Bengson
Sherburne/Crane Meadows/Rice Lake NWR Complex
Adopt-a-Road participants volunteer for Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and work to clean roadsides that border and bisect refuge land. This spring, from April to June, approximately six individuals, three families and seven groups, such as boy and girl scouts and 4-H groups, volunteered to clean countless miles of roads. Sherburne NWR would like to thank all of the Adopt-a-Road volunteers for their commitment, hard work and willingness to help. The Adopt-a-Road program is not only a clean up operation; it works to educate both the passersby and the Adopt-a-Road volunteers about the responsibility of land stewardship. As one Adopt-a-Road volunteer commented this spring, “I noticed whitetail deer and snakes moving along the section of road where I was walking. If I was just driving by these areas, I
would have missed seeing the animals and I would have missed picking up the trash that is interfering with their habitat.” Each time a volunteer is spotted walking down a roadside, someone, somewhere is reminded of our shared responsibility to care for the land. The fact that Adopt-a-Road volunteers not only share this sense of responsibility, but take action to make it better is what makes them so special, valued and appreciated. Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is thankful for the efforts of our dedicated Adopt-a-Road volunteers to keep our roadsides and habitats clean and wildlife friendly. Sherburne NWR would also like to thank Republic Services for donating a dumpster for our Adopt-a-Road program to use during the clean up. Sherburne Refuge is managed by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service and is located near the cities of Princeton, Zimmerman and St. Cloud, in central Minnesota. Visit the website
Lynn Karasch, MBA, CPA
Specializing in Individual & Small Business Returns By appointment • Accounting & Bookkeeping Phone 763-413-3090 Services Fax 763-434-4739 • Consulting
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at www.fws.gov/refuge/sherburne. The mission of the United States Fish & Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and
Buy with confidence. Sell with success!
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23624 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite 5 St. Francis, MN 55070
Home Improvement & Service Guide Eagle Garage Door Co.
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Watch for registration details on posters in businesses around the community or at upcoming Independent School District 15 open houses. See you at St. Francis Middle School, September 24, 8:00 a.m. for day-of registrants, 5K at 9:00 a.m. ~ Kids 1K at 10:30 a.m. Raffle Prizes ~ 8:30-11:30 a.m. For more information, questions or donations, please contact SFCDA at Info@DrugsEraseDreams.org, call Michelle Anderson at 763-568-0038 or visit www.drugserasedreams.org.
The Dash for Dreams 5K and Kids 1K is intended to provide the community an opportunity to participate in a fun, healthy event in a safe, supportive environment. Drugs Erase Dreams The St. Francis Community for Drug Awareness (SFCDA) was established in October of 2013. We are supported by dedicated volunteers, local businesses, community leaders, school officials and members of law enforcement. Our Mission: To bring awareness of the dangers of drug use in our community by providing educational resources to all and support for those affected.
Realtor®
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St. Francis Community for Drug Awareness
3rd Annual Dash for Dreams 5K
wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.
New Construction • Remodel Commercial • Residential Service
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20 August/September 2016 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Friends of the Isanti Area Library updates I Hate When That Happens
Randy Gerdin ASE certified technician, Gerdin Auto & Tire Owner
Gerald Golden
Friends of the Isanti Area Library
The Friends of Isanti Area Library participated in the Isanti Rodeo Jubilee Days Parade to support the East Central Regional Library (ECRL) Outreach services. Their entry focused on this year’s national iRead Summer Reading Program theme, Read - For the WIN! Marlene Chabot, a local Minnesota author, participated and rode on their float. The ECRL Outreach Library in Isanti City Hall has several large print books available. Librarian Tim Olson is eager to help patrons find the books, movies, audiobooks, etc. The Outreach Library is open Wednesdays from noon-4:00 p.m. The Isanti Friends are currently in need of media donations. Books, DVD movies and audiobooks are available for purchase at the Isanti Outreach Library year-round and there is an annual Book Sale in February. If you have any used books you wish to donate, contact Susi at 763-444-4585 to arrange a dropoff. Westerns, children’s and large print books are especially appreciated. Please no encyclopedias, textbooks or magazines. Do you order from Amazon.com? A percentage of your purchases on Amazon will be donated to the Isanti Friends group when you use smile.amazon.com while making your Amazon purchases. Simply enter “Friends of the Isanti Area Library Inc.” when selecting your charity choice. There is no cost to you! Your donations are greatly appreciated and help promote the ECRL Isanti Outreach Library, as well as to support literacy in the community. You are welcome to attend planning meetings on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. For more information, contact Susi@IsantiLibrary.org or 763-444-4585.
763-753-2721 3745 Bridge Street • St. Francis, MN
20 CAR SHOW 16 St. Francis Friday Nite Rally
You won’t do what? I would like to touch on a subject that is very sensitive for some folks. This scenario happens once or twice a month and sometimes people are not happy about it. I speak with other shop owners and they all agree that it can be a problem if shop owners do it or if they don’t. Most don’t. So what’s the big issue? This may come as a surprise to some, but the issue is that periodically we have clients who supply their own parts to fix their vehicle. The main reason is cost. Most reputable shop owners will never allow someone to supply their own parts, because they are very particular about which brands they use. Even within a specific brand there are different lines to appeal to many segments of the market. For example, one tie-rod end may or may not be the same as a different brand. If you go to a dealership to get your vehicle repaired, they also have different lines for the price-conscious buyer. They are not the same as the one that came on the vehicle from the factory. The part you buy from the manufacturer may also not be the best quality. There are many aftermarket manufacturers that produce parts that actually exceed the original equipment items. Automotive parts are not a commodity, per se. Why won’t most shops install customersupplied parts? One reason is to protect their reputation. If a particular repair fails, it may be misconstrued as the fault of the installer, where in fact, it was an inferior part. Professionals also know from experience what brands work best with certain vehicles. For example we have found out that a certain well-known and highquality spark plug does not perform well with a particular vehicle. We also have learned that in some cases we must go back to the vehicle dealer for a certain item, even if it is much more expensive. Otherwise, the vehicle will not perform well. For most parts, aftermarket parts have exceptional quality at a reduced price.
However, we have found better pricing at the dealer for certain things. That is one reason people choose to pay a professional for their services. Professionals are professionals. Case in point, a commercial client was working on their own vehicle and the repair became more complex than they had planned. They already purchased the part and because of a long-time personal relationship, we broke our policy and agreed to use the part. We installed it and the vehicle would not start. Was it something we did or a problem with the part? We ended up diagnosing the problem as a failed part. The client took the part back to the store and they gave them a new one. We installed it and low and behold, we had the same scenario. This was an electronic part with no moving parts, just circuit boards. We got our diagnostic hotline involved and they agreed with us. We then started researching the part number they were given and discovered that they had been given the incorrect part. According to the part supplier, the part was correct, but it really was not. We secured the proper part, installed it and it started right up. It was a very frustrating situation for us, the client and part supplier. I do believe that we would have received the correct part number the first time because of the method we use to source parts. Another reason most shops will not install customer supplied parts is that a repair shop is a business and the revenue from parts is one way that the company stays in business. I know one would not walk into a restaurant and bring their own steak to be prepared by a professional cook because they feel that the price the restaurant charges is too much. All businesses survive, thrive, grow and innovate based on their profits. The final reason to let your professional shop supply their parts is that in case of a part failure, you have the company’s warranty to stand behind. If you supply something and it does not work out, everyone loses. I hate when that happens.
Andover
May 20-September 9
Physical Therapy 1574 154th Ave NW
763-433-8108
th 12 Season
Community Appreciation Day Wednesday, August 31
FREE! Family Friendly Event
Every Friday Night 5:00 p.m.–Dusk Weather Permitting
St. Francis City Centre Mall
Hwy 47 & Pederson Dr. NW St. Francis, Minnesota
Reserved parking for 1980 & Older
Street Rods, Customs, Classics, Trucks, Motorcycles
Music and Prizes Weekly
Special prizes and trophies on May 20, June 24, July 22, August 19 and September 9 Sponsored by St. Francis Collision/Joe’s Hot Rod Shop, St. Francis McDonald’s, King’s County Market and other area merchants.
For rally information, call Dick Henz at 763-753-1092.
11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at each of our 6 locations Join us for FREE cake and refreshments.
www.physicaltherapyptc.com
Ham Lake
Physical Therapy 16210 Aberdeen St NW
763-413-0880
Isanti
Physical Therapy 2 Enterprise Ave
763-444-8680
North Branch
Physical Therapy 5466 St. Croix Trail
651-674-7589
St. Francis
Physical Therapy 23212 St. Francis Blvd
763-753-8804
Zimmerman
Physical Therapy 26025 3rd St E
763-482-5270
21
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
Financial Focus
Blake Cheeley Edward Jones Financial Advisor
Act today to avoid financial regrets tomorrow
Questions on new flood Low interest loans for well and septic fix-ups insurance requirement Martha Weaver Anoka County. Martha Weaver
Anoka County Public Information Manager
“Regrets? I’ve had a few.” – Frank Sinatra. Mr. Sinatra, one of the most famous entertainers of the 20th Recently, some Anoka County century, did things his way, but he was also familiar with remorse. residents have been notified by He’s not alone, of course. We all deal with regrets – and financial their mortgage company that ones are among the most troublesome. their property is in a floodplain Here are the leading financial regrets, according to a recent and they need to obtain flood survey by Bankrate.com, along with some suggestions for insurance. Why the change? avoiding them: The confusion can be Not saving for retirement early enough traced to Federal Emergency This was the top regret expressed by survey respondents. Saving Management Agency’s and investing early for retirement offers you two key benefits. (FEMA) use of inaccurate First, the more time you give growth-oriented investments, base data when it remapped the greater their growth potential. And second, by saving and Anoka County’s floodplains investing for retirement early in your career, you will likely in 2011. Mortgage companies need to put away less money each year than you would if you using those 2011 FEMA waited until, say, your 40s or 50s. So, if you aren’t already doing maps may have designated so, contribute as much as you can afford to your IRA and your some properties as being in a 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan. And increase your floodplain when in fact, they contributions every time your salary rises. are not. Today, new technology, Not saving enough for emergency expenses called LiDAR, is available to You can’t plan for all expenses. Your furnace might die, your car more accurately delineate flood may need a major repair, you may incur a sizable doctor’s bill – zone boundaries. In order the list goes on and on. If you don’t have the money available to to get the flood insurance meet these costs, you might be forced to dip into your long-term requirement dropped, residents investments. That’s why it’s important to maintain an emergency must send FEMA a Letter of fund, containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, in Map Amendment (LOMA) a liquid, low-risk account. application. FEMA is accepting Taking on too much credit card debt the new LiDAR maps as part If you don’t overuse your credit cards, they can be handy and of the LOMA supporting helpful, in many ways. Try to keep a lid on your credit card debt, documentation. keeping in mind that your debt payments reduce the amount of Anoka County has developed money you have available to invest for your long-term goals, such a new flood zone mapping as a comfortable retirement. application that uses the more accurate LiDAR maps Not saving enough for children’s education to help determine if property This may be perhaps the most difficult regret to address— is in a floodplain. The new after all, it’s not easy to save for your own retirement and app also includes step-bysimultaneously put money away for your children’s college step instructions on filling educations. However, if you can afford to save for college, try to out the LOMA form. Go to do so in as advantageous a manner as possible. anokacounty.us/floodplain to Buying a bigger house than you can afford learn more. If you tie up too much money in mortgage payments, you will have less to contribute to your various retirement accounts. And while home Blake A Cheeley, CRPC®, AAMS® equity certainly has some Financial Advisor value, it generally does not 23306 Cree Street NW Suite 102 provide you with the same St. Francis, MN 55070 763-753-2988 liquidity—and probably not the same potential for growth Member SIPC and income—as an investment www.edwardjones.com portfolio that’s appropriate for your needs and risk tolerance. So, think carefully before purchasing that big house— We Buy you might be better served states! E by scaling down your home ownership and ramping up your investments. You can’t avoid all the doubts and misgivings you’ll encounter at various stages of your life. But if you can reduce those regrets associated with your finances, you could well increase your satisfaction Sell your stuff by auction. Low commissions. No flea market vendor fees. during your retirement years. Bag it. Box it. Bring it or Buy it at Mau’s Corner. This article was written by See www.auctionmn.com for details. Edward Jones for use by your Located 3 miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47 local Edward Jones Financial Tony Elfelt, Lic. #02-180 – Nowthen, MN Advisor.
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Anoka County Public Information Manager
Low interest loans are available to eligible property owners and businesses located in Anoka County to repair or replace private well and septic systems under a program offered by Anoka County Community Development and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Best Management Practices Program (AgBMP). Loans up to $200,000 are offered at below market interest rates. Property owners must be current on their mortgage payments and property taxes to be eligible. Loans will be repaid via a special assessment on the property tax statement through
Loans can be used to: } Repair or replace failed or failing septic systems } Relocate a private well to meet setback requirements } Repair broken casings in a private well } Seal a well that is no longer in use or is contaminated } Solve an existing or potential groundwater pollution problem } Repair or replace noncompliant septic systems } Repair a failed or failing drain field For more information or to obtain a loan application, call 763-323-5722 or go to anokacounty.us/cd.
Sannerud, Savarese & Associates, p.a. Certified Public Accountants
Specializing in accounting and taxes for closely-held and family-owned businesses since 1974. Summer Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m.-Noon or by appointment Regular Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or by appointment (begins September 6)
763-434-5929
• www.sannerudsavarese.com
1207 Constance Boulevard NE • Ham Lake, MN 55304
8/15
We’re still here in a roundabout way! Insurance for Auto • Home • Business • Risk • Recreation Call Gary today for a free policy review and quote!
St. Francis Insurance Agency Gary Zimmerman • 763-753-3595 Across from St. Francis High School
St. Francis Auto Parts Local one stop auto parts store with over 100,000 in stock parts and nationwide parts locating.
Paying 50 for most junkers! $
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Bonus for caerrs! ’06 or new
Open 5 Days A Week - Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. CLOSED ON SATURDAYS 763-753-4698 • Family Run Business 4140 St. Francis Blvd., just south of town on Hwy 47
22 August/September 2016 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Community Education Lunch Bunch offerings for the 2016-17 season Nancy Wallace
Community Education Coordinator
Enjoy top entertainment by popular artists at the monthly Lunch Bunch. Make your reservations early as most shows sell out. New this year are Dessert Shows for selected dates. Save money by registering for all nine lunch shows with the Season Ticket option. Lunch Bunch is available through the efforts of the Independent School District 15 Senior Advisory
Council. Location:
Sandhill Center 23820 Dewey Street NW Bethel Doors open: 10:30 a.m. Lunch served: 11:00 a.m. Showtime: 11:30 a.m.12:45 p.m. Cost: $20 (price includes sales tax) NEW! Season Ticket Option Register for a season ticket and save money! Register for
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/Just 4 Kids Program Supervisor........................ 763-213-1616 Kids Connection Cedar Creek Community School Site........ 763-753-7160 Kids Connection East Bethel Community School Site.......... 763-213-8921 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
Fitness for all!
Only $2 per visit & no membership fees
e
er Relaxed atmosph are
– senior citizens d! encouraged to atten l Trainers +Treadmills + Elliptica + Stationary Bikes hine + Nautilus Weight Mac
Contact ISD 15 Adult on at Community Educati
763-213-1640
n.
for more informatio
all nine Lunch Bunch shows and pay $160…it’s like getting one free! No refunds given if you cancel any show of a season ticket registration. To register for a season ticket for all nine Lunch Bunch shows, use course code LBALL NEW! Dessert Shows Enjoy dessert and these performances: Betty Rydell (November 15), A Crooner Christmas with Todd Anderson (December 13) and Remembering the King with Steve & Tommy Marcio (February 7). Doors open: 1:45 p.m. with dessert service Showtime: 2:00-3:15 p.m. Cost: $13 (price includes sales tax) For reservations, call 763213-1640 or register online at www.communityed15.org. Cancellations for individual registrations received at least two weeks prior to the show date will be refunded less a $5 processing fee; cancellations less than two weeks before the showdate will not receive a refund.
Lunch Bunch Line-up Red Johnson Tuesday, September 13 #LB101 Lunch Show Red Johnson, Minnesota Rock & Country Hall of Fame recording artist, has pleased audiences for over 50 years with his singing and song writing skills. Traditional country and western music with a blend of bluegrass,
ABE
Adult Basic Education Start your future now!
Independent School District 15 Community Education
Fitness 15 Sandhill Center • 23820 Dewey Street • Bethel
Monday-Thursday, 8:30-11:30 a.m. & 1:00-4:00 p.m. Friday Closed
English classes on all levels Classes are for foreign born adults who want to read, write and speak English. Our ESL classes are designed to fit students’ needs and help with everyday living. Our teachers and volunteers work with students one-onone to help them learn a new language.
Tex-Mex, Cajun, gospel—Red Johnson covers the realm of real country music. Larry & Bev Rose Tuesday, October 11 #LB102 Lunch Show Larry and Bev Rose have made music together for over fifty years, entertaining throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin as well as Branson, Missouri. They have performed with many of the Grand Ol’ Opry artists as well as many members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Bev sings and plays guitar and piano; Larry plays guitar, pedal steel, bass, lead guitar and sometimes a five-string banjo. Betty Rydell Tuesday, November 15 #LB103 Lunch Show #LBDES1 Dessert Show At center stage, the everpopular, multi-talented entertainer, Miss Betty Rydell! Betty enjoys most performing before a live audience, singing a variety of songs and playing many musical instruments. Betty’s wonderful personality will make you smile and fill your time with laughter and joy. She strives to do more than just sing songs to the audience; her goal is to entertain! A Crooner Christmas with Todd Anderson Tuesday, December 13 #LB104 Lunch Show #LBDES2 Dessert Show A Crooner Christmas with Todd Anderson is a wonderful sleigh ride through the best loved songs from Christmas past. You’ll hear the holiday
music of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Johnny Mathis, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Gene Autry, Burl Ives and many more. Rockin Woody Tuesday, January 10 #LB105 Lunch Show Tom Strohmyer, known professionally as Woody, has been performing since 1983, playing guitar, keyboards, saxophone, trumpet, flute, harmonica and singing in various bands and as a solo performer. Woody is also an experienced juggler and magician, entertaining everyone from ages 1 to 100. Remembering the King Tuesday, February 7 #LB106 Lunch Show #LBDES3 Dessert Show Remembering The King features the father-son team of Steve and Tommy Marcio. They pride themselves on being a family-friendly show, and enjoy entertaining people with their respectful and authentic tribute to Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. Steve was the winner of 2005 You Be The Judge contest at the Paramount Theater in Austin, performed at the MN Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, won the Mall of America Contest of Kings in 2007, The Ultimate Elvis contest at the Owens Theater in Branson, Missouri in 2007, and 2008 finalist at The Elvis Explosion in La Cross, Wisconsin. Tommy performed as a special guest at the Mall of America Contest of Continued On Page 23
Free
One-On-One Instruction for Adults www.communityed15.com/abe For more information or to register, call 763-753-7190. Prepare for the GED Adults who have a degree earn more money and are prepared for college. Prepare for Tests ParaPro: for potential educational assistants Accuplacer: college entrance exam Test of English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
Class days and times: Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Closed for the summer. ABE reopens September 5 at 9:00 a.m.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
Continued From Page 22
Lunch Bunch Kings 2005-2009, at the Owens Theater in Branson, Missouri in 2007, was the winner of the Spirit of Elvis award at The Elvis Explosion in 2008 and 2009. Charlene Malaske Tuesday, March 14 #LB107 Lunch Show With a repertoire including 50s/60s songs, classic country, light rock, some standards and gospel, Charlene Malaske’s singing comes straight from the heart. Charlene started singing as a little girl following along with songs on a radio and singing in church. In the 1970s, she recorded in Nashville including, I’m not Free, But I’m Reasonable. The tune rose to #17 on the record charts in Minnesota and was mentioned in Record World and Billboard Magazine. After a break to raise a family, Charlene is back again singing all the favorites. Steven Marking presents Our Mighty Mississippi Tuesday, April 11 #LB108 Lunch Show A journey of song, storytelling and visual imagery celebrating America’s
Fall Community Education catalog available soon At Independent School District 15 (ISD 15), we believe that lifelong learning enriches individuals and creates opportunities. Community Education in ISD 15 offers many opportunities for learners of all ages. Watch your mailbox in September for the 2016 Fall/Winter Community Education catalog. Visit www. communityed15.com for more information and to register online.
greatest river. Steven is a current day Mark Twain with a gorgeous voice and a touch of Ken Burns and Garrison Keillor. This acclaimed baritone singer presents a sensory feast of song, stories, film and photos capturing life on the Mississippi River and surrounding waters. Listen to Ol’ Man River, Moon River, Up a Lazy River and others.
Gracenotes Trio Tuesday, May 9 #LB109 Lunch Show The Gracenotes Trio love to sing old favorites from the 1930s and 40s. In addition to their Andrews Sisters, Big Band style programs, they have added some great songs from the 1950s and 60s that appeal to all ages!
Convenient
Drivers Education
instruction at St. Francis High School
Two convenient locations—Cedar Creek Community School and St. Francis Elementary School!
Classroom Education Registration for classroom driver’s 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 driver’s education course offered during the school day. Fee $110. Watch for classroom drivers education information available on the website in early September.
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)
Behind-the-Wheel Driving Instruction Six hours of required behind-the-wheel instruction Flexible scheduling State of Minnesota certified instructors Fee $250
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.
Applications available at www.communityed15.com or call 763-213-1640 for more information.
Registration forms available online at www.isd15.org/kc or call 763-213-1641.
Sponsored by 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
Follow ISD 15 Community Education on Facebook @isd15CommunityEducation
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 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
23
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
SilverSneakers Yoga SilverSneakers Yoga will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of seated and standing postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity. Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays Time: 9:00-10:00 a.m. Fee: Free to SilverSneakers and Silver & 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. Handheld 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 September 5 Sandhill is a Silver & Fit qualified center. For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program or the Sandhill Center, please call 763-213-1640. To see if you qualify as a Silver & Fit member or a SilverSneakers member, please contact your insurance company.
24 August/September 2016 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Bright Beginnings in ISD 15 Early Childhood 763-753-7170
Call ECFE at for more information or to register for any of the opportunities on this page. Lifelong Learning Center • 18900 Cedar Drive NW, Oak Grove • Online at www.isd15.org/ecfe Follow ISD 15 Early Childhood on Facebook to stay in the know and connect with other parents.
Register for Preschool Now! Programming takes place September through May
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
What is Early Family Childhood Education (ECFE)? A place for babies A place for toddlers A place for preschoolers A place for all dads, moms and other relatives in a parenting role ECFE is a place where parents and young children learn and play together and can meet other families with young children. We are one of nearly 350 in the state of Minnesota offered through school districts. We believe all families deserve support, information and opportunities to be involved in their children’s learning. We recognize that parents are the first and most important teachers of their children. ECFE provides information on getting ready for school, discipline, child development, communication and growing together as a family.
Watch for the new Learn & Thrive brochure in your mailbox. It has information about ECFE parent/child classes for the 2016-17 school year!
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.
What happens at weekly ECFE parent/child sessions? Time together: Parents and children explore a variety of activities planned by a licensed early childhood teacher. Time for play: Children practice and discover their own capabilities by experimenting with materials, playing with other children and trying out toys appropriate for their age. Time for parents: While the children are busy playing, you have an opportunity to meet with other parents and gain support. A licensed parent educator will lead the group and share information about parenting issues, child development and resources. Most baby and young toddler classes have discussion in the early childhood classroom; older classes separate to a nearby room when appropriate for the group.
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 information.
Have a concern about your child?
Are you concerned about your child’s development, speech or behavior? If your child is under three years of age, call 763-753-7172 to reach Independent School District 15 Help Me Grow services. If your child is at least three years of age and not yet in kindergarten, ISD 15 Early Childhood Screening is the first step in confirming any concerns you have. Call for an appointment at 763-753-7187.
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 Safety you currently have a 3 or 4-year-old child who has not been screened.
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
25
Sports & Outdoors St. Francis High School Trap Team completes successful season John Lorenzen
SFHS Trap coach
The St. Francis High School (SFHS) Saints Trap Club, an Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) Community Education program, completed another successful season June 25 at the Minnesota State High School League Trap Championships in Prior Lake. The trap season begins in April as teams around the state are formed and assigned to conferences made up of schools with similar size teams. SFHS had 43 team members and competed in Class 5A and Conference 2. The season begins with two nights of practice. Each ahtlete completes two rounds of trap or 50 targets. Scores are entered into a data management system with the Minnesota Clay Target League. After the first two weeks of practice, there is a reserve week in which scores
are to be used if the weather interrupts the week’s schedule. Then there are five weeks of scored targets. Team scores are computed using all of the scores from the team. Team placements are available at mnclaytarget.com. At the end of the season SFHS was in first place in Conference 2 and had two students ranked in the top 100 in the state. This qualified them for All-State honors and an invitation to participate in the Minnesota State High School League Championship. The season culminates with the Clay Target League Championship held in Alexandria over an eight-day period with over 10,000 athletes. Winning teams qualify for the State High School League Team Championships held in Prior Lake. At Alexandria, junior Carter Hopkins did well for the Saints, though they missed qualifying by the slimmest
margins. The team received recognition as Conference Champions. Jefferson Westbrook was named the top male participant in the conference and Aaron
Lorenzen came in third place. Third place female in the conference went to Paige Ehrsmann. The team thanks the Minnetonka Game and Fish Club and their coaches for allowing the Saints to use
their facility. A solid core of younger athletes will return to lead the Saints. Registration for the 2017 season will begin in mid-February. Watch www. communityed15.com for more information.
St. Francis High School
Saints Football 2016 Game Schedule 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/19
7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Away vs. Bemidji Home vs North Branch Away vs Buffalo Home vs Cambridge Away vs Rogers Away vs St. Michael/Albertville Home vs Elk River Homecoming Home vs Duluth East
Social Kick-Off
Friday, August 19
The Dugout Bar & Grill in Bethel
5:00-8:00 p.m. 10% of food sales back to program 8:00 p.m.-Midnight Find more info, visit www.sfgridclub.com $10 wristband for social
New and Exciting Discount Cards Starting August 18 Discount Cards are available from any Saints High School football player or the Grid Club. (L-R) Jefferson Westbrook and Aaron Lorenzen were two of the top trap athletes in the Saints’ Conference. Submitted Photo
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St. Francis Boys & Girls Grades 4-8
Traveling Basketball Tryouts Sunday, September 18
at St. Francis High School
Register online only at www.sfbaonline.com BEFORE Friday, September 16 Third graders are encouraged to tryout. ´ ´ A $100 check made out to SFBA MUST be brought to tryouts. The check will only be cashed if you do not volunteer. ´ For more information, visit www.sfbaonline.com.
We Are In Need Of Coaches
If interested, please fill out a coach’s application online. You do not need to have a child in the program to coach.
Tryout Times 4th Grade • 2:30-3:40 p.m. 5th Grade • 3:45-4:55 p.m. 6th Grade • 5:00-6:10 p.m. 7th Grade • 6:15-7:25 p.m. 8th Grade • 7:30-8:40 p.m.
Join us for food, drink, raffles and live music!
26 August/September 2016 The Courier
High school fall sports roundup 2016 Heidi Antinozzi
SFHS Activities Office
St. Francis High School (SFHS) Athletics will hold the fall sports roundup Monday, August 1, 6:30 p.m. in the SFHS Performing Arts Center. All fall athletes and their parents are invited to attend and meet with coaching staff and register for fall sports. These sports include: boys and girls cross country, football, boys and girls soccer, girls tennis and volleyball. First day of practice for all sports is Monday, August 15. All athletes must be registered before they participate in practice. Again this year, registration is online. Information will be posted on the SFHS Athletics website at www.GoStFrancisSaints.com. Student athletes are required to have a sports physical every three years. To check the date of your student’s last physical or for any other questions, call the SFHS Activities Office at 763-213-1508.
| www.the-courier.org
Who are the Cedar Creek grad fellows? Caitlin Potter
Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve Outreach Coordinator
Every summer, Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (CCESR) is bursting with graduate students pursuing their dissertation research projects, research scientists, faculty members working on large-scale experiments and as many as 50 undergraduate interns from across Minnesota and the rest of the country assisting in all sorts of ways. These interns spend the summer living onsite and gaining valuable skills in ecological fieldwork. They contribute to the success of Cedar Creek’s long-term experiments, interact with graduate students, post-docs and professors, and conduct their own scientific investigations. Shepherding the intern cohort—many of whom have never done field work before—are the Cedar Creek grad fellows, a special group of Cedar Creek graduate students with an interest in developing their skills as mentors. This year, there are six grad fellows: George Furey, Siddharth Iyengar, Kaitlin Kimmel, Shan Kothari, Cristy Portales and Yi Yang. As a team, they work together to advise undergraduate research projects, arrange weekly seminars and workshops (many of which are open to the public), provide training and insight on proposal writing, data analysis and presentations and organize an all-day symposium at the end of the summer for interns to share their projects with the community. They do all of this while also collecting data for their own research projects. The Cedar Creek Fellowship program provides a great opportunity for undergraduate students to deepen their understanding of what it means to be a research scientist, as well as serving as a way for graduate students to gain experience mentoring and advising the next generation of scientists. This program also helps enhance the intellectual community at CCESR by providing opportunities for everyone—staff, researchers, community members and students—to share ideas and learn from one another. We hope you’ll join us at one of the weekly noon science seminars as well as the all-day symposium to share in the success of this year’s Fellowship program on August 18. Detailed information on events can be found online at z.umn.edu/ccEd.
Join St. Francis Youth Hockey If you are interested in playing hockey… now is your chance! We are looking for boys and girls age 4 and up.
n o i t a r t s i g e R e n i l On Is Now Open! Sign-up at www.sfyha.com (click on the registration tab)
WALK-IN REGISTRATION in early September will be at East Bethel Ice Arena 20675 Highway 65 NE, East Bethel Please check for dates and times on our website.
Oakridge Auto Body Inc.
23428 Hwy. 65 NE 2 Blks. S of CR 24 on Hwy. 65
763-434-4772 763-434-7373 Collision Specialists
Recommended by insurance companies Ask about a free loaner car • Owners John and Lori Buchta Friendly and dependable service
Students & Staff
Drop your car off for service at our convenient facility across from St. Francis High School while you are at school.
763-753-4993 • www.gerdinauto.com 3128 Bridge Street, St. Francis Serving this community since 1977
24-Hour Towing & Recovery 763-434-1686
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
27
Meetings, Benefits & Events Bus drivers needed
Independent School District 15 (ISD 15) is in need of school bus riders/ drivers for the 2016-17 school year. Part-time and full-time shifts are available for mornings, afternoons or both. Complete the online application at www.isd15.org/employment. A valid Class B drivers license required; if applicant does not have Class B license, the Transportation Department will provide PAID training. A 6-hour day qualifies driver for full-time benefits. Call the ISD 15 Transportation Department at 763-753-7101 and ask for Dean. ISD 15 is an equal opportunity employer.
ISD 15 School Board ISD 15 SCHOOL Board Meetings: August 8 & 22, September 12 & 26 — 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.
Night to Unite St. Francis Night to Unite sponsored by 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. There will be hot dogs and chips provided by the St. Francis Lions and Lionesses, root beer floats provided by St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce, temporary tattoos provided by the Miss St. Francis Ambassador Program and music provided by Party Patrol DJs, LLC.
Chamber of Commerce St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce On August 10 & September 14 join us for Good Morning St. Francis 8:0010:00 a.m. at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in St. Francis Breakfast is $3. The Board of Directors meetings are August 17 & September 21, 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street. Meetings are open to all. Visit www.stfrancischamber.org for more info or call 763-438-5163. North 65 Chamber of Commerce Will not have an August meeting. Next chamber luncheon is September 21, Noon1:15 p.m. Check website for more details, www.north65chamber.com. East Bethel Chamber of Commerce Membership Meeting at Minnesota Fresh Farm, August 11, 8:00-9:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.eastbethelchamber. com. Ham Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Join us for the 37th Annual Ham Lake Open at Majestic Oaks, Ham Lake, August 15, 1:00-7:00 p.m. Comedian Andy Erikson is the evening’s entertainment. For more information, visit www.hamlakecc.org.
SFHS Class Reunion
Seniors
AA/NA
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.
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.
AA/NA Meeting at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in East Bethel. NA on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., AA on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., NA on Fridays at 6:30 p.m.
Service Group 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.
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.
Lions Oak Grove Lions club 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. 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. CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONS CLUB Meets bimonthly, first and third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., in August at The Refuge and regular meetings are held at Maxx’s. Call Judy Ricke at 763-226-4893. 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 763-7531205 or visit www.stfrancismn.lionwap.org.
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.
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 dance is on Friday, August 5 with old time music played by Jim Armstrong. Entertainment for the September 2 dance will be performed by Jerry Bierschbach and for October 7 it is Mike Elsenpeter. All are welcome on Sunday, August 14 and September 11 for a Pancake Breakfast, 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 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, 763434-6599. We Serve! St. Francis Lioness Club Meets monthly. First Wednesday, administrative board and third Wednesday, general membership meeting at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are held at St. Francis City Hall, 23340 Cree Street. For more information, call Mary Madden at 763-444-5020 or Cheryl Eldstrom at 763-753-4602 or email bluesage51@ gmail.com.
AA/NA AA Meets at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 7:00 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 763-753-4234.
City & Township Meetings Andover City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, 763-755-5100 Bethel City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Thursday 7:00 p.m., 23820 Dewey Street, Bethel, 763-434-4366 Nowthen City Council Meets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m., 19800 Nowthen Boulevard NW, Nowthen, 763-441-1347 East Bethel City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday 7:00 p.m., 2241 221st Avenue NE, East Bethel, 763-367-7840 Oak Grove City Council Meets 2nd & last Monday 7:00 p.m., 19900 Nightingale Street NW, Oak Grove, 763-404-7000 St. Francis City Council Meets 1st & 3rd Monday 6:00 p.m., ISD 15 Central Services Center, St. Francis, 763-753-2630 Stanford Township Board Meets 1st Monday, 7:00 p.m., 5050 261st Avenue NW, Isanti, 763-444-6370
Contact The Courier Online
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By Phone
763-753-7031 Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
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
28 August/September 2016 The Courier
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Life Now registering for the 2016-17 school year. Offering 2, 3 & 4 extended day and kindergarten Parent readiness class options. Aw are For registration information, please contact Ra tin g Michelle Bauer, Preschool Director 4 star out of mbauer@oursaviourslc.org, 4 stars by phone 763-434-6117 ext. 123 or visit www.oursaviourslc.org under Preschool. Join us for
Preschool Summer Camp
as we dive into the world of Eric Carle. August 15-18 10:00 a.m.-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 provide a bag lunch with your child’s name on it each day.
Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church Preschool 19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel
Early Learning Scholarships available for eligible families for our preschool. Contact Michelle or visit Think Small’s website at www.thinksmall.org for more information.
Dana Blankenship Travel Experts, Owner
Vacations provide an opportunity to relax and unwind. Yet despite the benefits of vacations, people have plenty of reasons to avoid traveling. Many may stay home simply because they have not mastered the art of stress-free travel. Scheduling airline flights, booking accommodations, coordinating rental cars and planning itineraries is not always so easy, but there are plenty of ways to make vacation planning manageable. Here are a few tips from Travel Experts: } Do not exchange money at the airport, if you can avoid it. } Taking a tropical vacation? Drink lots of water! You can get dehydrated quickly in hot weather. } Always pack a scarf. Not only will it keep you warm, it will also easily accessorize your outfit. } Bring lots of snacks on the train with you. Your kids might not like what is available on the train. } Destination wedding travel tip: Dress for the climate. Satin might not be comfortable in the tropical heat. Consider a gown made of silk, organza or chiffon instead. } Before traveling, let your credit card company know where you will be going to prevent holds on your card. } Make sure your camera is fully charged before your vacation and bring extra memory cards. } It’s not about what you pack, it’s how you pack. Plan what outfits you will need for your trip.
Make a Difference with Dungarvin! Hiring Multiple Positions In Chisago County Mental Health Program Director
Salary: $48,000/Year
Responsibilities: • Effective crisis intervention and treatment plans • Ethical consideration related to mental health services • Reduction/elimination strategies promoting least restrictive techniques
Mental Health Specialist
Pay: $17.00/Hr
Responsibilities:
• Work cooperatively with supervisor to assess needs related to household, medical and care giving needs within the program/home Mental Health Specialist: Job Req # 16-0270
Mental Health Program Director: Job Req # 16-0206 These positions support adolescents with traumatic brain injury or other psychiatric disorders in the Chisago County area.
Apply online at www.dungarvin.com
“A Walk in the Garden” educational series Lynne Hagen
Master Gardener Program Coordinator University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County
The University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County Master Gardener Volunteer Program is sponsoring “A Walk in the Garden,” a series of educational gardening classes at the Bunker Hills Activities Center, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW andover. Only two of the six gardening classes scheduled through the summer on Wednesday evenings remain. The classes are held at Veteran’s Peace and Master Gardener Demonstration Garden south of the Activities Center, 7:00-8:00 p.m. The two classes for August are: Continued On Page 28
ut o b a s u k s A line n o w e n r u o pet med pharmacy! “We treat your pets like our own”
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
Our Saviour’s
ELCA
Our Saviour’s Preschool
Travel Tips by Travel Experts
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. Preschool Summer Camp August 15-18, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Save the Date: Fall Fun Fest September 11—Car/Motorcycle Show, Pig Roast, Games, Petting Zoo, Craft Fair, “Feed the Need” Community Project 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
29
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
Continued From Page 28
A Walk in the Garden
helps to cover marketing and promotional expenses. Please call 763-755-1280 to reserve your space. A copy of the brochure is available at
www.anokamastergardeners. org and lists complete class descriptions.
All are encouraged to join in the fun and help Long Lake Lutheran Church celebrate its 125th Anniversary! Saturday, September 10
Hymn Sing & Ice Cream Social 6:00 p.m.
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
Sunday, September 11
Rally Sunday/History Day Worship Services • 8:00 & 9:30 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and many other programs kick-off for the year. History Events •10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Classic Car/Tractor Show Steam engine, horse & buggy rides Old fashioned games for the kids Potluck 12:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 18
Celebration Worship Services 8:00 & 9:30 am Bishop Ann Svennungsen, guest speaker
Long Lake Lutheran Church
Located 5 miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47 3921 277th Avenue NW, Isanti, MN 55040 763-444-5315 • www.longlakeluth.org
Join us each Sunday for worship and fellowship 8:00 & 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Service – 7:17 p.m.
SAINT FRANCIS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL INVITES YOU TO THE 11TH ANNUAL
SFCS Silent Auction
& Fall Festival Saturday, October 1, 2016 10:00 a.m.-Noon
(763) 753-1230 22940 St. Francis Blvd NW St. Francis, MN 55070 www.FBCsaintfrancis.com
Free Registration Kid’s Carnival 9:30am-Noon
Going on a picnic or making school lunch.
www.kingscountymarket.com
We have what you want.
23122 St. Francis Boulevard NW • St. Francis 763-753-3334 n ve Se Open Monday-Saturday 5:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Days A Week Sunday 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.
Specialty Deli Salads Fried & Rotisserie Chicken Fresh Fruit • Cold Beverages Chips & Snacks • Bakery
5 Off 5 Off 5 Off 5 Off Express Express Express Express Valid 8/1/16-8/31/16 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.
Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store. Valid 8/1/16-8/31/16 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.
X1001
X1001
Gasolines
¢
Gasolines Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store.
Valid 9/1/16-9/30/16 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.
Valid 9/1/16-9/30/16
Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store.
¢
Valid 8/1/16-8/31/16
Gasolines
Valid 8/1/16-8/31/16
X1001
¢
¢
Gasolines Per Gallon All Grades of Gas Cash transactions only, must pay inside store.
Valid 9/1/16-9/30/16 Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.
X1001
August 31
Growing Dahlias and Winter Care Winter Garden/ Yard Care for Native Pollinators
Pre-registration is required due to space limitations. Classes are free, but a suggested donation of five dollars per session is welcome, which
Valid 9/1/16-9/30/16
August 10
Classes will be taught by Extension Master Gardener Volunteers and will include many useful gardening tips along with University of Minnesota research-based information. These classes immediately follow the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinics, also held at the Bunker Hills Activities Center.
30 August/September 2016 The Courier
| www.the-courier.org
Master Gardener
Carol bray Isanti county master gardener
Deer resistant plants Some say the resistance to deer damage corresponds to the availability of other food. I’m not one of those that say that. During periods with heavy snow and in areas of little food, deer could be forced to eat plants that are normally considered resistant to deer foraging. While no plant is one hundred percent deer resistant, there are some plants, including herbs, which deer tend to avoid because of their textures or scent. Heavy snow or not much other food are
other factors. Here are some plants that you might consider if you have a Bambi or two that thinks your garden is a banquet table: } Daffodils } Poppy } Allium (chives, ornamental onions) } Ferns } Sedum } Mint } Bee balm (Monarda didyma) } Lamb’s ear } Grasses } Rhubarb } Ajuga } Spiderwort (Tradescantia) } Pine, fir and holly trees
2016 Goal 701
Monarda, or bee balm, is a plant deer will avoid eating.
Photo by Carol Bray
Fall Recycling Day
Tons
62 Tons
Recycled in June St. Francis has recycled 332 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
Saturday, September 17 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Public Works Garage 815 Viking Blvd. NW Watch for signs Call 763-404-7006 for accepted materials and prices
Fall
Recycling Day East Bethel Ice Arena
? Questions40 8 -7 763-367
20675 Hwy 65 NE, East Bethel Saturday, September 17 8:00 a.m.-Noon This is a NO Household Hazardous Waste event
Representatives reserve the right to refuse items. This event is sponsored by the City of East Bethel and Cedar/East Bethel Lions and Lioness. Funded by the Anoka County Board of Commissioners and State SCORE Funds.
Electronics Small/Medium Electronics (Household) ............................ First item $5 Unlimited items $10 Large Electronics (Office).........First item $10 Unlimited items $20 Computer (Laptop or Tower)................ FREE Monitor.........................................................$15 Treadmill .......................................................$5 Television (19" or smaller).................... $20 ea (20-29") ................................................ $30 ea (30" and larger)................................... $40 ea (Projection & Wood Console).......... $50 ea Bulbs Fluorescent bulbs (4’ and up)......................$1 HIDS bulbs.....................................................$2 Appliances** Small Appliances...................................... $5 ea Normal Appliances (Washer, Dryer, Refrigerator etc.)................................. $10 ea Small Freon Items (Window Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier).............. $15 ea Gas Refrigerators (Ammonia or LP)............................min $75 ** Appliances should be free of food and debris, not compacted. No commercial appliances.
} Herbs: lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia), catnip (Nepeta Cataria), lemon balm (Melissa Officinalis), mint (Mentha), Russian oregano (Origanum Vulgare subsp. Gracile), rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis), sage (Salvia Officinalis) and English thyme (Thymus Vulgaris). Be careful with herbs—many of them have a tendency to spread. The idea behind deer resistant gardening is to fill your yard with plants they do not like in hopes the deer will simply give up and go someplace more appetizing. Deer-resistant plants have pungent aromatic oils in their leaves that deter deer. Also, if leaves are hairy, such as lamb’s ears, deer are likely to leave them alone. 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 763-6898254. You can also find us on Facebook at Isanti County Master Gardeners.
Furniture Mattress.................................................... $25 ea Small Furniture (Lazy Boy, Chair)............$30 Couch............................................................$40 Hide-A-Bed..................................................$50 Lawn Equipment ...................... $5 each, Tractors $10 ea Tires Tires.......................... $5 / if attached to rim $6 Semi Tires .....................................................$10 Items Collected for
FREE
• Scrap metal (Freimuth Enterprises) • Computer hard drives/disk drives, cables, circuit boards • Cell phones, ink jet cartridges and rechargeable batteries (East Bethel Royalty) • Used or new fishing rods and reels (East Bethel Royalty for Fishing For Life) • Used oil and oil filters (East Side Oil) • Used bicycles • Automotive batteries, used eyeglasses/ hearing aids, laser cartridges and food shelf donations (Cedar/East Bethel Lions/Lioness) • Worn and torn flags for proper disposal
The Courier | www.the-courier.org August/September 2016
Births
Pet Corner
Brantley Daniel Voss was born on June 19, 2016 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 8 pounds, one ounce and was 19 inches long. Proud parents are Blake Voss and Haley McCormick of Cambridge. Brantley is welcomed by big brother Noah. Philip Jameson Harris was born on June 25, 2016 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parents are Stacia Harris and Dustin Marshall of Cedar. Lucas Randall Mattson was born on June 26, 2016 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 9 pounds, 2.8 ounces and was 21 inches long. Proud parents are Ryan and Jill Mattson of Isanti. Lucas is welcomed by siblings Jennifer and Jacob. Aariyela Brooklyn Graham was born on July 7, 2016 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces and was 21 inches long. Proud parents are Sierra Steiner and Adrian Graham of St. Francis.
Question I’ve heard algae in the lake can be harmful to my dog. Can you explain? Answer By mid-summer many lakes, rivers and ponds turn green due to the growth of small microscopic plants in the water called blue-green algae, also known as Cyanobacteria. Algae grow in all bodies of water when light and nutrient levels are sufficient. In many lakes, algae abundance is determined by the amount of phosphorus dissolved in the water. The more phosphorus present, the more abundant algae become and the greener the water gets. Usually algae growth comes from run off from fields that are heavily fertilized or that contain a large number of animals. Algae can be found lake-wide and is generally freefloating, but concentrations occur along windward shores and backwater areas. As it becomes abundant,
Dr. Amy Morgan Oak Grove Animal Hospital, Owner
File Photo
there is a strong musty or earthy odor caused by algae that have died. Although they are most often blue-green in color, Cyanobacteria can also be blue, green, reddish-purple or brown. Unfortunately, even if you don’t see the algae, algae toxins can remain in the water for a while after they have died and sunk below the surface. Of the many species of bluegreen algae, only some are toxic. However, the toxins are very potent so it pays to be cautious. The only reliable way
Kendall W. Goodian, D.C. 6/12
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requires emergency veterinary attention. A definitive diagnosis can be made from stomach contents and water samples. Be on the lookout at any lake your dog goes to for the typical algae bloom or abnormally colored water. You can also check the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website, www.dnr. state.mn.us/lakefind. Enter the lake and county you’re interested in, go to the water quality tab, then water quality summary. If phosphorus and trophic state are closer to the green end of the scale shown, conditions are more favorable at that lake for algae bloom. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency also provided a link to more information at www.pca.state.mn.us/zihy141d.
Pizza makers and delivery drivers.
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to reduce the risk of exposure is to avoid ponds or lakes where algae is known to grow. Public health officials advise avoiding areas with pea soup colored water. Treating ponds and lakes for existent algae results in the release of more toxins as the algae die, so it isn’t recommended. Blue-green algae can cause acute liver illness, neurological symptoms and/ or an upset stomach. Dogs are exposed by drinking or swimming in the pond or lake and then licking their fur. They are quite sensitive to toxins and signs come on very rapidly. Weakness, pale mucous membrane, bloody diarrhea, tremors, seizures and coma can occur as a result. There is no antidote, so treatment is symptomatic and
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32 August/September 2016 The Courier
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CountryFest coming soon…with expanded fireworks St. Patrick CountryFest Committee
It’s almost time for CountryFest, the largest party in north Anoka County! This year marks the 40th Anniversary of CountryFest and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. The event is held at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Oak Grove September 9-11. CountryFest kicks off Friday, September 9 with the Youth Block Party, 8:0011:00 p.m. The Block Party is for all middle school and high school youth. D.J. Bill will return to entertain, along with gaga ball, a bonfire, pizza and the chance to win some great prizes. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. On Saturday, September 10, the 5K Run/Walk for all ages starts at 9:00 a.m. All 5K participants will receive a T-shirt, refreshments and a chance to win prizes. Awards will be given for the overall men’s and women’s winners. Registration information is available at www. st-patricks.org/countryfest. The main festival starts at noon on Saturday with amazing food, free children’s games, inflatables, bingo, silent auction, The Country Store will have fresh produce, homemade baked goods, crafts and more. At
1:00 p.m., don’t miss Remembering the King featuring Steve and Tommy Marcio; A Touch of Magic and balloon sculptures starts at 3:30 p.m. The third annual BBQ RibFest contest is here again this year and takes place Saturday afternoon. Contestants will be tempting everyone in Oak Grove with the mouth-watering scent of ribs cooking to perfection. Ribs will be ready for sale by 7:00 p.m. and judges will name the winners at 8:30 p.m. We are looking for more contestants who want to show off their grilling skills—all are welcome to participate! If you are interested in competing in the rib contest, contact Chad Lashinski at 612-991-7004 or email chad@chadlashinski.com. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners. Be sure to enter the raffle drawing for a chance to win $10,000 cash and other prizes. In the social hall, you can bid on hundreds of silent auction treasures all weekend. Stay for dinner on Saturday, try the ribs and enjoy the headliner, Shane Martin Band from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. Our 40th anniversary fireworks show begins at 9:15 p.m. On Sunday, September 11, CountryFest opens at 10:00 a.m. for games, inflatables, raffle, food (try the
Don’t Miss It!
40th Anniversary of St. Patrick CountryFest!
September 9-10-11
Win over
14,000
$
in cash & prizes
NEW This Year
Friday, September 9
8:00-11:00 p.m. Youth Block Party – Gaga ball, pizza, prizes, games, bonfire, grand prize drawing and more. Advance $10, at door $15
Saturday, September 10
❋ Kids Prize Room Is Back ❋ FREE Children’s Games ❋ NEW Breakfast Burrito Sunday ❋ EXPANDED Fireworks Display ❋ More RibFest Contestants needed—win cash and bragging rights. Call 612-991-7004.
new breakfast burrito) and the silent auction. The Classic Car Show begins at noon and runs until 4:00 p.m. The 6th annual quilt auction begins on Sunday at 12:45 p.m. and will offer a selection of 35-40 quilts in an array of colors, designs and sizes. Many hours are spent sewing fabrics together in unique patterns, then machine quilted with intricate designs. These quilts really need to be seen up close to appreciate the workmanship. The quilts will be displayed all day Saturday and prior to the auction on Sunday, so come early and pick out your favorite before the bidding begins. All quilts can be viewed prior to CountryFest on the website. Final bids for your favorites at the silent auction must be made by 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Activities wrap up with the raffle drawing on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. Find the winners of the $10,000 grand prize, $2,000 second place and $1,000 third place. Many other prizes will be raffled. We look forward to seeing you at our 40th anniversary of CountryFest at St. Patrick Catholic Church. For more information, visit www.stpatricks. org/countryfest or call 763-753-2011.
Pig Picks! Remembering the King
Saturday, 1:00 p.m.
Shane Martin Band Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
BBQ RibFest Contest
Saturday, Ribs for Sale at 7:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m. 5K Run/Walk for all ages see website for registration information Noon-Midnight Raffles, FREE children’s games, food, bingo, silent auction and a lot more fun 1:00 p.m. Remembering the King featuring Steve & Tommy Marcio 3:30 p.m. Touch of Magic & balloon sculptures 5:00 p.m. Mass 7:00 p.m. BBQ RibFest Contest Ribs for sale at 7:00 p.m. until gone. Prizes awarded at 8:30 p.m. Call 612-991-7004 to participate. 8:00 p.m.- Shane Martin Band Midnight NEW TIME 9:15 p.m. Expanded Fireworks Display
Sunday, September 11 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Noon-4:00 p.m. 12:45 p.m.
$
Mass Raffles, FREE children’s games, food, silent auction and a lot more fun Classic Car Show 6th Annual Quilt Auction view quilts on the church website prior to CountryFest 3:00 p.m. Silent auction closes 4:00 p.m. Raffle drawing Over 35
19921 Nightingale Street NW • Oak Grove • www.st-patricks.org
Quilts!