The Courier - September 2018

St. Francis Area Schools Bond Update Page 5

Home Improvement Page 11-13

Fall Recycling

Summer Football Recap

Page 14-15

Page 21

WWW.THE-COURIER.ORG | NEWS@ISD15.ORG

SEPTEMBER 2018 | VOLUME 26, ISSUE 2

The Courier

St. Francis Area Schools 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

Strategic plan progress continues to move St. Francis Area Schools forward LISA RAHN

ST. FRANCIS AREA SCHOOLS COMMUNITY EDUCATION DIRECTOR

The mission St. Francis Area Schools is to equip all students with the knowledge and skills to empower them to achieve their dreams and full potential while becoming responsible citizens in a dynamic world. The district is now in year four of its strategic plan developed to support this mission, and the commitment and accountability continues. This past April, the 25-member core planning team, who first developed the strategic plan, re-convened to review progress made this past year and map out future recommendations. Susan Hintz from Transformation Systems Limited guided the team again through the planning process; however this will be her last meeting with the core planning group as she is retiring.

This past year the district focused on the following

results statements: 1. St. Francis Area Schools has a recognizable and consistent brand.

2. St. Francis Area Schools employees conduct themselves in a manner that promotes the strategic plan.

3. St. Francis Area Schools uses established protocols to support transparent communication to foster trust among all St. Francis Area Schools stakeholders.

4. A framework is adopted by St. Francis Area Schools to support continuous improvement toward aligning all programs and services with the mission.

The strategic planning implementation team, led by Ryan Johnson, Lisa Rahn and Kathleen Miller, have worked closely with action plan teams and the core planning results to identify the focus for the 2018-19

school year: 1. St. Francis Area Schools has a recognizable and consistent brand.

2. A framework is adopted by St. Francis Area Schools to support continuous improvement towards aligning all programs and services with the mission.

3. St. Francis Area Schools has a culture of recognition that celebrates all accomplishments related to the mission.

4. St. Francis Area Schools uses established protocols to support transparent communication to foster trust among St. Francis Area Schools stakeholders.

Teams identified to work on these results statements are dedicated as we continue this critical work that supports our mission. As on of our core value states: Open exchanges of ideas and communicated planning are integral for continuous improvement.

2018 Election Information KATHLEEN MILLER

STAFF WRITER

Three of seven seats on the school board for St. Francis Area Schools will be decided in the 2018 general election; each seat is a four-year term.

Candidate filing for the school board closed August 14. The general election will be held Tuesday, November 6, 2018.

Running for school board for St. Francis Area Schools are incumbents Jill Anderson, Barbara Jahnke and Marsha Van Denburgh. Four candidates, Renee Deibert, Jake Humphrey, Keila Lopes and Scott Schwarz, join the three incumbents.

Watch for the October issue of The Courier for candidate profiles, which will be available online September 24 and delivered to area homes and businesses September 26-30.

Inside

St. Francis Middle School offered WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) Sixth Grade Orientation on August 24. Several variations of tag helped students break the ice. Students paired up to play a game of tag with a partner, with challenges such as looking through “Cyclops’ eye” given each round to make the game more challenging and fun. Eighth grade students were trained as WEB mentors earlier in the week. See article on page 2.

THE COURIER PHOTO

Schools in Action..................................... 2 School Board Highlights........................ 7 Community Education........................... 8 Community & Business........................ 16 Sports & Outdoors................................ 21 Meetings, Events & Benefits................. 24 Life........................................................... 25

2

SEPTEMBER 2018

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Schools in Action Superintendent’s Bulletin

TROY FERGUSON ST. FRANCIS AREA SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT

Welcome to the start of the 2018-19 school year. The buildings are filled with energy and excitement for a new year. The anticipation of the renovations in our schools brings new excitement as students and staff imagine the changes that will be occurring over the next few years.

A year ago in The Courier, I announced in my column, that the school district would make a second attempt at a bond referendum after the first failed attempt in May 2017. With input from the community, the bond referendum reflected the needs of the school district coupled with what taxpayers would be willing to support.

The passing of the bond referendum last November

set a course of renovation and addressing critical deferred maintenance and facility needs across the school district.

Additionally, school safety issues will be addressed and improved.

At the August 13 school board meeting, staff members from Wold Architect and Engineering along with ICS Consulting, Inc. presented building design concepts for East Bethel Elementary School (EBES), St. Francis Elementary School (SFES) and St. Francis Middle School.

Building design for St. Francis High School (SFHS) will be presented at the school board meeting on August 27. Those four buildings are the first to enter into construction with

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projects at SFES and EBES to be completed by fall 2019.

All building projects are to be completed by 2021.

A few smaller projects were completed over the summer.

Those include Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible bleachers at St. Francis High School stadium, along with ADA accessible pathways from the ticketing booth to the home and visitor sides. The first SFHS home football game is Friday, September 7. It would be great to see you there. Go Saints!

Another project that was funded by Long Term Maintenance Facility Revenue (LTMFR) was reconstruction of the tennis courts at St. Francis Middle School, which was completed at the end of August. These courts are now in compliance with the Minnesota State High School League and can be used for competition as well as use by physical education staff, community education and our community. I am happy to announce that these three courts will also be marked for Pickleball and are free and open to the community.

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is to equip all students with the knowledge and skills to empower them to achieve their dreams and full potential while becoming responsible citizens in a dynamic world.

❞

The 2018-19 St. Francis Area Schools calendar will be available at open houses (one per family). For additional calendars, please contact the Communications Department at 763-753-7031 after Tuesday, September 4.

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Also part of the LTFMR, track resurfacing at the high school was completed at the end of August. Please stop by and take a look at the progress; you will be very impressed.

In several buildings, some initial construction will start early winter; however the areas of this construction will have little impact on day-today activities at the schools.

We appreciate your patience during this time.

We anticipate another great year in St. Francis Area Schools. All staff are thankful for your students and are working hard to provide the best education as we work toward our mission. Have a great year!

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Where Everybody Belongs mentoring program helps middle schoolers transition COURIER STAFF

Starting at a new school can be challenging for kids, and transitioning from elementary school to middle school is no different. That’s why St. Francis Middle School offered WEB Sixth Grade Orientation this year.

WEB – Where Everybody Belongs – is a nationally recognized program that aims to ease the transition to middle school and provide the foundation for a successful year.

Research shows that the more a sixth grader knows about their middle school, the more comfortable and successful they will be. The benefits of the program will be school wide as these eighth graders will find the joy in helping someone else and model a positive school culture.

WEB also acts as an antibullying program by providing student leaders who look for bullying behavior and help stop it. WEB gives older students permission to be aware of and report any negative behavior they see, creating a safer school for everybody.

SFMS teachers Anita Koep and Tammy Robinette attended training last spring and led the WEB activities on August 24.

The eighth grade mentors had two days of training to prepare them for WEB. At the orientation, they led small groups of sixth graders through a series of team building exercises and taught the younger students some skills to be successful in middle school.

First day of classes for St. Francis Area Schools is Tuesday, September 4.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

The safest mode of transportation for children In Minnesota, school buses make at least 10,000 school bus trips daily. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, school buses are the safest mode of transportation for children.

Children are eight times safer riding in a bus to school than any other vehicle.

In the past five years, there were 3,451 school bus crashes in Minnesota, resulting in seven deaths.

Students can do their part in helping the bus driver focus on the road and help keep themselves safe outside and inside the school bus.

More children are killed outside of a school bus than they are as bus occupants.

Motorists must anticipate children in a school bus “danger zone”—the area around a bus where most injuries and deaths occur.

■ When getting off a bus, look to be sure no cars are passing on the shoulder (side of the road).

■ Before crossing the street, take five “giant steps” out from the front of the bus, or until the driver’s face can be seen.

■ Wait for the driver to signal that it’s safe to cross.

■ Look left-right-left when coming to the edge of the bus to make sure traffic is stopped. Keep watching traffic when crossing.

School bus safety tips for motorists ■ Motorists must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus that is displaying red flashing lights and/or its stop arm is extended when approaching from the rear and from the opposite direction on

to stop for a bus if the bus is on the opposite side of a separated roadway (median, etc.) but they should remain alert for children.

■ Altering a route or schedule to avoid a bus is one way motorists can help improve safety. In doing so, motorists won’t find themselves behind a bus and as a result, potentially putting children at risk.

■ Watch for school crossing patrols and pedestrians.

Reduce speeds in and around school zones.

■ Watch and stop for pedestrians. The law applies to all street corners, for both marked and unmarked crosswalks (all street corners) — every corner is a crosswalk.

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School bus drivers wanted St. Francis Area Schools is in need of school bus riders/ drivers for the 2018-19 school year. Part-time and fulltime 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 sixhour work day qualifies driver for full-time benefits. Call the St. Francis Area Schools Transportation Department at 763-753-7101. St. Francis Area Schools is an equal opportunity employer.

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■ Red flashing lights on buses indicate students are either entering or exiting the bus.

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School bus safety tips for children When waiting for the bus: be patient, stand back from road and no running or rowdy behavior.

When on the bus: stay seated, listen to the driver and use quiet voices.

It’s important for parents to discuss and demonstrate pedestrian safety with their children and reinforce safe crossing after exiting a bus:

Why don’t school buses have seat belts?

■ School buses are larger and heavier, which means that the mass and weight of the bus is designed to take the bulk of the crash force. They are also far less likely to rollover in a crash.

■ School buses must be federally regulated to provide for compartmentalization.

Compartmentalization means that the interior of large school buses must provide occupant protection so that children are protected without the need to buckle up. This is done through strong, closely spaced seats, energy absorbing foam seat backs and a 24-inch seat height. Visualize this by thinking how an egg carton protects the eggs.

■ The chassis of the school bus is designed to separate from the body of the bus in a crash to slow down and spread the crash forces over the entire body of the bus.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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St. Francis Area Schools welcomes new staff. Twentyseven new teachers and staff from around the district gathered at the District Office on August 22 for training and to be paired with a mentor.

Before heading out to their assigned buildings, the new staff gathered for a photo.

The 2018-19 school year begins on Tuesday, September 4.

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Families as partners

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Research has shown that engaging families in education increases student achievement and decreases dropout rates. Effective family engagement is a set of dayto-day practices, attitudes, beliefs and interactions that support learning at home, at school, after school and during the summer. St. Francis Area Schools educators promote engagement that is systemic, sustained and integrated into school improvement efforts.

Educators who engage parents as full partners in education and address each of the six types of parent engagement will improve student outcomes. Types of engagement are: Communicating Communication between home and school is regular, two-way and meaningful.

Parenting Parenting skills are promoted, taught and supported.

Student learning Parents play an integral role in assisting student learning.

Volunteering Parents are welcome in the school and their support and assistance are sought.

School decision-making and advocacy Parents are full partners in the decisions that affect children and families.

Collaborating with community Community resources are used to strengthen schools, families and student learning.

Source: Minnesota Department of Education www.education. mn.gov

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SEPTEMBER 2018

Building Our Future Together

Save your back-to-school receipts to receive tax benefits

Update for September 2018

GRANT ERICKSON

LISA RAHN

MEDIA CONTACT REP. CAL BAHR’S OFFICE

The cost of purchasing back-to-school supplies can quickly add up for families.

Representative Cal Bahr from East Bethel, urges people to save receipts and take advantage of tax benefits that can provide some relief.

Minnesota has both a credit and a subtraction for education expenses. Both programs reduce the tax parents pay and could provide a larger refund when filing state income tax returns for 2018. Qualifications apply and expenses must be for children attending kindergarten through 12th grade at a public, private or home school.

“These tax benefits are an important way for many Minnesota families to recoup some of the numerous costs related to shopping for school supplies,” said Bahr. “I encourage parents interested in taking advantage of either the credit or the subtraction to call or email my office and I would be happy to help with any questions.”

School supplies which qualify for the credit or subtraction include writing utensils, textbooks, musical instrument rentals, tutoring and computer hardware/ educational software. Common items that do not qualify for the subtraction or credit include school lunches, uniforms and backpacks. Parents are encouraged to check the Department of Revenue website (http://www.revenue.state.mn.us) to determine which expenses qualify.

While the education subtraction is not subject to income limits, the credit is limited to households with incomes less than $37,500 for families with one to two children, $39,500 for families with three children, and adding $2,000 per child for families with four or more children. The Department of Revenue indicates that last year more than 37,500 families took advantage of the education credit, saving an average of $241. More than 186,000 families took advantage of the education subtraction.

In addition to visiting the Department of Revenue’s website, Bahr encourages constituents who have questions about the credit or subtraction to contact him at rep.cal.bahr@house.mn or by calling 651-296-2439.

Free and reduced meals: see if your family qualifies WENDY KLOBE

NUTRITION SERVICES PROGRAM SUPERVISOR

St. Francis Area Schools does all it can to support academic achievement by providing students with nutritious meals to fuel their learning. Any student who is approved for free or reduced-price school meals will receive breakfast and lunch at NO CHARGE. A new application must be submitted each year, unless you have already received a letter from the school district indicating your child(ren) have been approved for the current school year.

Those who qualify for free and reduced lunch may also have fees waived or reduced for participation in athletics, community education and other programs associated with St. Francis Area Schools. Go to www.isd15.org/application to learn more and find out if your family qualifies.

Some revisions have been made to school lunch and breakfast prices. Please see the following chart for updated prices.

Grades 1-5 Grades 6-8 Grades 9-12

Lunch (First Lunch) Full Pay $2.30 $2.40 $2.50 Reduced 0 0 0 Free (No charge) 0 0 0 Second Lunch $3.75 $3.75 $3.75 Breakfast (First Breakfast) Full Pay $1.45 $1.55 $1.55 Reduced (No charge) 0 0 0 Free (No charge) 0 0 0 Second Breakfast $2.00 $2.00 $2.00 Milk 50¢ 50¢ 50¢ Kindergarten Breakfast is FREE Kindergarten Snack Item: 50¢ Kindergarten and Preschool Snack Milk: No charge for milk

Adult

5

ST. FRANCIS AREA SCHOOLS COMMUNITY EDUCATION DIRECTOR, BOND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE

Over the summer and into the new school year, the progress is continuing on bond referendum projects in St. Francis Area Schools. The bond oversight committee (BOC) continues to meet and review design development documents and estimates for the budget for East Bethel Elementary School, St. Francis Elementary School, St. Francis High School and St. Francis Middle School. The design documents were presented to the school board on August 13 and 27. In the month of September, the design team will transition from development phase to construction documents, and once those are finalized they will be used for bidding the projects. Coordination efforts are happening between East Bethel Elementary School and Cedar Creek Elementary School for an onsite bus loop. Work with the city and county continues in order to reach a consensus on the plan, and then this will be presented at a future school board meeting. At Cedar Creek Elementary School and Lifelong Learning Center, project development will happen at a later date.

Progress can been seen on the high school bleacher replacement of new home side bleachers and modification to visitor side bleachers to incorporate Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) modifications. Completion is scheduled for the first home football game in September. An ADA accessible pathway from the ticketing booth to the home and visitor sides of the bleachers will also be completed in September.

Other progress that is visible are

the Long Term Maintenance Facility Revenue (LTMFR) projects, which are not part of the November 2017 bond referendum. The track resurfacing project at St. Francis High School was completed at the end of August. St. Francis Middle School tennis courts reconstruction was also completed at the end of August. Please visit our website at www.isd15.org for before and after pictures.

The passing of the $80M bond referendum in November 2017 is funding the safety, security, accessibility and educational space needs across the school district. The timeline for completion of all projects is 2021. St. Francis Area Schools is grateful for the support of our district residents. We look forward to providing continued progress as we build our future together.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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Local mental health agency integrates services into St. Francis Area Schools PATTY HALVORSON

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR LEE CARLSON CENTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Lee Carlson Center for Mental Health & Well-Being, a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit mental health agency, is proud to announce the addition of School-Linked Mental Health (SLMH) services in St. Francis Area Schools, Independent School District 15. St. Francis Area Schools joins six other districts partnering with Lee Carlson Center to offer these services including: Fridley, Columbia Heights, Centennial, Osseo Area Schools, St. Anthony-New Brighton and Spring Lake Park.

“We know that untreated

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 Binie Bertils Pat Johnson �����������������������������763-753-7025 pat.johnson@isd15.org Shawnda Schelinder ����������763-753-7033 shawnda.schelinder@isd15.org Advertising Representative Sarah Yannarelly ��������������������763-753-7032 ads@isd15.org Billing Amy Lindfors ��������������������������763-213-1588 amy.lindfors@isd15.org Deadline Information Deadline for the October issue of The Courier is September 10.

Delivery For delivery inquiries, call 763-753-7031.

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Policies and Pricing Visit www.the-courier.org for policy and pricing information.

News Submission Send news and photos/captions to news@isd15.org.

The Courier is a publication prepared and distributed by St. Francis Area Schools Community Education and paid for with revenues generated by advertising sales.

mental health issues can be a huge barrier to learning and school success. Few things are more difficult for families than when they encounter challenges in accessing the mental health support they need. Schools are an important access point,” said Rob Edwards, executive director for Lee Carlson Center for Mental Health & Well-Being.

Lee Carlson Center has been working with schools for over 25 years.

“It’s exciting to bring our services into St. Francis Schools — a district that where we launched a limited partnership in the summer of 2017. We’re thrilled that they have now become an official School-Linked Mental Health Partner.”

From 2017 to 2018, Lee Carlson Center’s schoolbased program grew by 56 percent and is a large part of the overall services that Lee Carlson Center provides in the community. With that growth Lee Carlson Center expects to serve more than 2,000 students over the next year. Therapy provided through the schoolbased program takes place in confidential and inviting spaces within the school or sometimes at the family’s home or in Lee Carlson Center’s nearby clinic. Having an office inside a school gives children, youth and families access they may otherwise lack due to transportation challenges or busy evening schedules.

Edwards believes this type of access helps ensure that concerns can be addressed

before they become larger problems.

“The Lee Carlson Center team takes pride in offering mental health services in school settings because they realize the impact that accessible care and early intervention can have,” said Edwards.

Lee Carlson Center’s work is funded in part by SLMH funding from the state that began in 2007 as part of the governor’s health and human services initiatives. In 2017, the legislature invested $4.9 million in fiscal year 2018-19 funding for an Intermediate School District Mental Health Innovation Grant Program.

Grants were awarded to mental health providers to work collaboratively with school districts.

According to Sue Abderholden, executive director of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota, “School-linked mental health services eliminates the barriers that youth and families experience in accessing mental health care and improves the capacity of the school to address the mental health needs of all students. As a strong advocate for increased funding to work toward a time when all students can access mental health treatment, we hear from families, teachers, principals and superintendents the positive impact of this program. We’re very pleased that funding was made available so that the Lee Carlson Center can increase

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the number of schools with which they partner and increase the number of youth served.”

According to the Minnesota Department of Human Services 2018 Report on SLMH, school-based mental health services reach children in normal, everyday environments. The natural, non-stigmatizing location offers an early and effective environment for intervention.

SLMH offers: ■ Improved identification of children and youth with mental health needs and disorders ■ Increased accessibility for uninsured and underinsured children to mental health services ■ Improved clinical and functional outcomes for children with a mental health diagnosis According to the study, results show: ■ Increased access to mental health services ■ Sustained engagement in treatment ■ Consultation time with teachers and parents ■ Partnership between local mental health providers and schools Lee Carlson Center school services incorporate the following: ■ Mental health assessments and referrals ■ Individual, group and family therapy ■ Resources to help youth develop daily living and social skills ■ Assistance for families to help them understand and better navigate the mental health system ■ Collaboration among the school-based therapist and

the agency’s psychiatry providers and psychological testing team ■ Trainings with teachers, school social workers and staff Students are referred to Lee Carlson Center by school staff but also by parents directly when they learn about the opportunity. Before a school makes a referral to Lee Carlson Center, they first contact the student’s family to present the opportunity. If a family is interested, a Lee Carlson Center therapist will follow up with the family to share more information about therapy services and answer any questions parents have.

Edwards says that partnerships with schools make accomplishing the agency’s mission possible and incredibly rewarding.

“It’s our goal to deliver hope, healing and health to our community. School partnerships are critical,” said Edwards.

“St. Francis Area Schools’ partnership with the Lee Carlson Center is adding an additional layer of mental health support for our students,” said AnnaRae Klopfer, Special Services program supervisor for St. Francis Area Schools.

“As mental health needs continue to grow, the school district is focused on meeting our students where they are and providing them support to get them to a place where they can learn and grow,” continued Klopfer.

To learn more about Lee Carlson Center’s SLMH program or any of their other mental health services, call the intake line at 763-780-3036 or visit www.leecarlsoncenter.org.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

7

School Board Highlights districtwide safety, security and accessibility and enhance educational SHAWNDA SCHELINDER spaces and learning environments.

STAFF WRITER Throughout the district, buildings will include one secure entry, and August 13, 2018 renovations will be made to increase Wold Architects & ICS Consulting visibility and improve the flow and representatives unveiled design circulation.

Flex teaching spaces are also being added. The flex teaching East Bethel Elementary School spaces will be located outside of classrooms to provide teachers with flexible teaching options— such as group activities—without sacrificing direct supervision of the students outside of the traditional classroom.

East Bethel Elementary School has a construction budget of $6,053,300. The renovation includes: ■ Improve pick-up/drop-off flow and safety ■ Secure entry ■ Office expansion ■ Reorganize classrooms ■ Four classroom additions ■ Relocate and reconfigure media SUBMITTED RENDERINGS, PLEASE VISIT WWW.ISD15.ORG/BOND FOR center PRESENTATION PACKET WITH COLOR RENDERINGS AND MORE UPDATES. School Board ■ Update ■ Update interior interior finishes finishes and Members andlighting lighting Mike Starr replacement replacement Chairman 763-300-9110 ■ ■ Add Addfire fire protection protection Jill Anderson Classrooms will be Vice-Chairwoman 612-270-0415 Classrooms organized by grade, will be organized Sean Sullivan in four classroom by grade, in four Clerk 763-807-0010 pods with adjacent classroom pods Rob Schoenrock breakout space. with adjacent Treasurer 763-232-7902 St. Francisspace. breakout Barbara Jahnke Elementary School St. Francis Director 763-753-6846 construction Elementary St. Francis budget is School’s Amy Kelly Middle $8,403,025.

Director 763-744-8458 construction School budget is Marsha Van Denburgh 1ST FLOOR $8,403,025 and Director 763-753-6653 includes:

School Board Highlights

concepts for East Bethel Elementary School, St. Francis Elementary School and St. Francis Middle School at the August 13 school board meeting.

As part of the $80 million bond passed last November, renovations will address critical deferred maintenance and physical facility needs, improve

Email: schoolboard@isd15.org

St. Francis Elementary School

School Board Meeting Schedule School board meetings are held in the Community Room at the District Office, located at 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis.

Monday, September 10 & 24 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m.

Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.

Mondays, October 8 & 22 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m.

Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.

Mondays, November 12 & 27 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m.

Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.

Live streaming and video archives of school board meetings are available at www.isd15.org/sbvideo.

St. Francis Middle School 2ND FLOOR

■ Improve pick-up/drop-off flow and safety (combined site with St. Francis Middle School) ■ Secure entry and main office reorganization ■ Create flex areas in classroom wings ■ Ten classroom addition ■ Centralize media center and specialty classrooms ■ Centralize special education suite ■ Update interior finishes and lighting replacement ■ Add fire protection The renovated classrooms will be consistent in size, with flexibility to anticipate future needs.

St. Francis Middle School requires a higher degree of renovations and has a construction budget of $14,417,615.

Included are: ■ Improve pick-up/drop-off flow and safety ■ Secure entry ■ Expand cafeteria (create student commons) ■ Relocate music suite ■ Renovate science ■ Reorganize media center ■ Reorganize special education ■ Improve tech access ■ Relocate gymnastics to SFHS to recapture gym use ■ Relocate weights and recapture stage ■ Recapture 4th/5th grade space ■ Update interior finishes, lighting replacement and address deferred maintenance ■ Add fire protection In each design plan, an effort was made to incorporate as much of the existing structure as possible. In the middle school, renovations to the former 4th and 5th grade spaces will begin during the school year; however, most of the renovations to the buildings will commence when school is out to minimize the impact of day-to-day operations.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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Community Education Community Education Spotlight SHAWNDA SCHELINDER STAFF WRITER

Adult Basic Education Whether you need to prepare for your GED, brush up on digital literacy, study for college entry assessments or improve your English language skills, St. Francis Area Schools Adult Basic Education (ABE) can serve you.

“Not everyone understands the scope of what ABE does,” said Adult Basic Education Coordinator Tammi Bernard.

“Last year, I had one student who spoke five languages but wanted to improve her English skills. She also wanted to brush up on math and study for her driver’s license written exam. She received help with workplace skills and brushed up for the Accuplacer assessment for accurate college placement.”

Students have a variety of needs met through ABE, including: ■ GED preparation classes ■ English Language Learner classes ■ College and postsecondary preparation ■ Occupational and workforce development preparation ■ Citizenship/civics education ■ Basic skills enhancement ■ Digital literacy ■ Distance learning St. Francis Area Schools ABE offers all of these services to adult learners from age 17 and beyond. “As part of the Metro North Consortium, if there’s a service a student needs that we don’t offer, we can find another site that can help,” Bernard said.

Tammi Bernard

COURIER PHOTO

Flexibility is another aspect of ABE that is important to adult learners. ABE classes are not like a traditional education setting. “Students can drop in at any time during our open hours and stay as long as they choose,” Bernard said. Students are also able to attend daily or as their personal schedules allow.

ABE is staffed by licensed teaching professionals, as well as adult learner volunteers.

“This model helps people build their confidence for those who were not successful in a

traditional setting,” Bernard said. “The students build amazing friendships and connections with each other.

They inspire each other and help one another along their journey.”

Bernard, a former adult learner herself who started college in her 30s, understands how intimidating and overwhelming it can be to walk into the classroom. “They don’t really know what to expect,” she said. “They wonder if they’ll be the oldest student or how their math and reading skills might compare to someone else’s.

But we meet people where they’re at. Everyone works at the pace that’s right for them.

You have to put in the time and dedication to reach your goals, but we’ll be here for you.”

ABE in St. Francis serves a diverse group of students.

During the 2017-18 school year, ABE served 56 students from 10 different countries. The youngest student was 17; the oldest student was 81. Students do not have to be a resident

St. Francis Area Schools Adult Basic Education has moved to a different location, St. Francis Learning Center at 4111 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis.

COURIER PHOTO

Community needs assessment moving forward this fall LISA RAHN

COMMUNITY EDUCATION DIRECTOR

Community Education is looking to the future and will be conducting a community needs assessment in September. The survey will assess the attitudes and opinions of residents of St. Francis Area Schools on four areas: perception of current community education programs, barriers to participation, interest and potential for additional or expanded programming and understanding current demographics. Along with these goals, the school district will also be collecting information on enrollment choices and attitudes toward the district. The survey will

be conducted by phone to randomly selected households; selection is unbiased and will be validated. If you receive a call from the Morris Leatherman Company a national research firm located in Minneapolis, please know that your participation is greatly appreciated. Results will be presented at a future Community Education Advisory Council and school board meeting.

Based on the results, Community Education will look at potential new programs, address barriers to participation and make changes to meet the needs of our community. If you have questions about this process, please feel free to contact Lisa Rahn, Lisa.Rahn@isd15.org.

within the St. Francis school district. In fact, ABE is available in a number of different locations, including libraries, workforce development centers and correctional facilities.

Statewide, ABE sites served more than 70,000 last year.

Bernard is looking forward to serving students at ABE’s new location. St. Francis Area Schools ABE is located at the St. Francis Learning Center, 4111 Ambassador Boulevard NW in St. Francis.

Adult Basic Education classes begin Tuesday, September 4; however, students can register and start anytime throughout the school year. Class times are Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday 5:00-8:00 p.m. Classes are free of charge.

For additional information contact Bernard at 763-7537190 or tammi.bernard@isd15. org.

Community Education Directory Community Education Director............................................................... 763-753-7048 Adult Basic Education (GED)...................................................................... 763-753-7190 Adult Enrichment & Rec................................................................................ 763-213-1640 Communications/The Courier.................................................................. 763-753-7031 Youth Enrichment • Grades K-5................................................................ 763-213-1616 Districtwide Youth • Grades 7-12............................................................. 763-213-1640 Driver Education/Behind the Wheel..................................................... 763-213-1640 Early Childhood Family Education.......................................................... 763-753-7170 Early Childhood Screening.......................................................................... 763-753-7187 Facility Scheduling............................................................................................ 763-213-1589 Kids Connection/Just 4 Kids Program Supervisor..................................................................................... 763-213-1616 Cedar Creek Elementary School Site................................................ 763-753-7160 East Bethel Elementary School Site................................................... 763-213-8921 Lifelong Learning Center Site................................................................ 763-753-7199 St. Francis Elementary School Site..................................................... 763-213-8674 Preschool Place 15/School Readiness.................................................. 763-753-7170 Rec Department................................................................................................. 763-213-1823 www.isd15.org • www.the-courier.org • www.communityed15.com

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SEPTEMBER 2018

BRIGHT BEGINNINGS

in St. Francis Area Schools Early Childhood

Call 763-753-7170 or online at www.isd15.org/ecfe for more information or to register for any of the opportunities on this page.

All classes are at the Lifelong Learning Center, 18900 Cedar Drive NW, Oak Grove unless otherwise indicated.

Follow St. Francis Area Schools Early Childhood on Facebook to stay in the know and connect with other parents.

Hot Topic: Easing fears about school For both children and parents, the start of school means new worries and some fears.

These fears range from, “I will miss my Mommy/Daddy,” to “What if someone picks on me?” Here are some tips that may help your child cope with the fears school may bring.

I will miss you, Mommy/Daddy

Many young children are fretful as the first day of school approaches, simply because they are afraid to leave the security of their own home, daycare or preschool. Leaving their family or familiar caregiver for the entire day can be overwhelming.

As a parent, you may:

■ provide your child with a “lovey” to keep in their backpack ■ visit/tour the school and playground to become familiar ■ show your excitement for this new adventure ■ send a note or picture in their lunch or backpack for the first week

I won’t know anyone or have any friends

Making friends is something children will often worry about.

This worry starts in kindergarten but usually continues each year through high school. Most children have to work hard at developing social skills in making friends.

Parents can help by:

■ reminding their child of previous successes in making friends

■ asking “what do you like in your current friends?” and relating that to what they can look for in choosing a new friend ■ teaching your child they have control over the types of friends they make ■ encouraging your child to take an interest in what others are saying by asking questions, taking turns and sharing ■ listening to your child when they talk about friends from school; take note of the interactions they are describing and guide them into building strong friendships

What will school be like?

Where are the bathrooms?

What if I get sick?

Children often express some of these fears prior to the start of school. Visiting the school, classroom, nurse and playground will assist the child in feeling capable and independent; however, remember that a child’s perception of space and time is very different than an adult’s.

To adults, the front door of the school might seem like it is just down the hall from the classroom. To a five-year-old it may seem like miles. Listen to their concerns/fears and help them cope as much as you can.

What will I do if someone picks on me?

If other children begin to tease, exclude or physically harm your child, it can begin to show

Check out the new Learn & Thrive brochure, that was mailed to households, with all of the ECFE parent/ child classes for the 2018-19 school year.

in their behavior. Listen for reoccurring statements a child makes that diminish their own self-confidence. Take note in changing behavior: withdrawal from favorite things, becoming more quiet, feeling sick or not wanting to go to school.

Tips for parents:

■ Appropriate interventions by parents are encouraged ■ Support your child’s feelings by listening ■ Assist in problem-solving without stepping in to resolve the issue for them ■ Encourage assertive, nonaggressive responses such as “No!” “Stop!” “Don’t do that!” and looking the other child in the eye while making these statements If none of these work, contact the teacher, social worker, counselor or principal to create a plan together.

My first day!

Make a BIG deal out of the first day. Take photos, make a special meal to celebrate the occasion or make a tradition for after school that can happen each year.

Calling all preschoolers!

The 2018-19 Preschool Place 15 preschool year is beginning on September 10. Limited number of spots still available so register NOW! Register now; classes are filling quickly. Classes offered at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove and programming takes place September through May. Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available.

You may qualify for free or reduced preschool tuition and fees based on family size and income.

Available through Early Learning Pathway II Scholarships and/or School Readiness fund.

Classes are held one, two, three or four times per week. Most classes are age specific. Classes are also available for two-yearolds and very young three-yearolds. Busing is available for ALL full-year morning and afternoon classes. Sliding fee scale is available based on family size and income.

Helpful hints for parents

While your child is at school, do something for yourself that takes up your time. Don’t sweat it! Keeping busy will make the time go by faster and you will worry less about how their day is going. Expect your child to come home tired! Try to keep evening activities at a minimum the first day or week of school.

St. Francis Area Schools Community Education

Do you think the cost of preschool is more than you can afford?

If you meet income eligibility requirements or participate in one of the following programs: Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program, Minnesota Family Investment Program, Child Care Assistance Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, Food Support (SNAP) or Foster Care.

Your preschooler may be eligible for free or reduced preschool tuition.

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

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is…

A place for babies A place for toddlers A place for preschoolers A place for all dads, moms and others relatives in a parenting role 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,

Call Jenny at 763-753-7196 for more information.

discipline, child development, communication and growing together as a family.

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 of baby and young toddler classes have discussion in the early childhood classroom; older classes separate to a nearby room when appropriate for the group.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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Early Childhood Screening Readiness

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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.

Health

Consists of a health review, height and weight, immunizations, vision and hearing.

Development

Checks cognitive, fine motor, gross motor, social/ emotional, speech.

Parents/guardians must

attend screening with their child. Plan on screening taking approximately two hours to complete.

This Early Childhood Screening satisfies the Minnesota state requirement that all children must participate in screening before entering public school kindergarten. It does not determine kindergarten readiness.

Call 763-753-7187 if you currently have a 3, 4 or 5-year-old child who has not been screened. Also call if your child was screened in another district or if you want conscientious objector 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 St. Francis Area Schools Help Me Grow services. If your child is at least three years of age and not yet in kindergarten, St. Francis Area Schools Early Childhood Screening is the first step in confirming any concerns you have. Call for an appointment at 763-753-7187 and mention your concerns.

Before and after school childcare Program Sites Cedar Creek Elementary School East Bethel Elementary School St. Francis Elementary School Lifelong Learning Center Kids Connection is a comprehensive childcare program for children in kindergarten through grade five that provides a safe, fun experience and offers families a variety of childcare options.

The program is open 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hours include before and after school programs and full day programs on non-school days.

Questions?

Call 763-213-1616 or 763-213-1641 communityed15.com/kc

Just 4 Kids is a childcare option for children who are three years of age by September 1, 2018, to kindergarten entrance. Children participate in various activities in a safe, well-supervised environment.

Extended childcare options are available at: • Cedar Creek Elementary School, 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Preschoolers who attend Just 4 Kids will be bused to the Lifelong Learning Center (LLC),9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at no fee.

• St. Francis Elementary School, 6:00 a.m.-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.

Questions?

Call 763-213-1616 or 763-213-1641 communityed15.com/kc

Classes & Events 23820 Dewey Street Bethel, MN 55005 Enjoy top entertainment by popular local artists at the monthly Lunch Bunch shows.

Make sure to register early, most shows will sell out! Lunch Bunch is located at Sandhill Center in Bethel.

Doors open: 10:30 a.m.

Lunch served: 11:00 a.m.

Showtime: 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

Cost: $20 Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

For reservations, call

763-213-1640

or register online at www.communityed15.org.

Strength In class you will use dumbbells/hand weights and resistance bands to strengthen muscles, improve bone density and increase metabolism. Class is for seniors or active older adults.

Day: Monday Time: 8:00-8:45 a.m.

Instructor: Cathie Hagford Fee: $2 per class, no registration required (class is not eligible for insurance reimbursement)

Line Dancing Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. This is an excellent class for those just beginning in line dance as well as the more experienced line dancers!

Day: Thursday Time: 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Instructor: Ginger Anderson Fee: $2 per class, no registration required (class is not eligible for insurance reimbursement)

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: Monday, Wednesday, Friday Time: 9:00-10:00 a.m.

Instructor: Cathie Hagford Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® and Silver & Fit® members, $2 per class for non-members, no registration required

Angie Senger’s Sweet Country Trio Tuesday, September 11 Course #LB181

Angie Senger is this year bringing her “Sweet Country Trio” to Sandhill Center.

Angie and Joe Chock are well known to audiences of Sandhill, and have recently added the gifted bass player/vocalist Dottie Johnson, creating their entertaining trio.

These three busy, award-winning, dynamic musicians/entertainers have combined their talents, and you will not believe the results! Senger has twice been awarded CD of the Year and is a 2018 inductee into the Traditional Country Music Hall of Fame!

Expect some great music, lots of harmony and a laugh or two! This is REAL music by REAL musicians.

SilverSneakers® Classic

Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. Hand–held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a SilverSneakers® ball are offered for resistance.

A chair is available if needed for seated or standing support.

Days: Wednesday, Friday Time: 8:00-8:45 a.m.

Instructor: Cathie Hagford Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® and Silver & Fit® members, $2 per class for non-members, no registration required

Fitness 15 We offer plenty of ways for you to get in shape, so you’ll never be bored with working out. We have two treadmills, two elliptical trainers, two stationary bikes and a Nautilus four-station weight machine. Relaxed atmosphere—senior citizens are encouraged to attend!

Days: Monday-Thursday Times: 8:30-11:30 a.m.

1:00-4:00 p.m.

Fee: $2 per visit, no registration required (no membership fees)

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.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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Fall Home Improvement Questions to ask before embracing DIY Home improvement projects are as popular as ever. In its 2017 True Cost Survey, the home improvement site HomeAdvisor found that between February 2016 and February 2017 homeowners spent an average of just over $5,000 on home projects.

That marked a nearly $1,900 increase from the year prior, indicating that homeowners are increasingly opening their wallets to transform their homes.

In addition to spending money to improve their homes, many homeowners are spending their time on projects as well. While DIY projects can provide a sense of fulfillment and personal attachment to one’s home, prospective do-it-yourselfers should ask themselves some questions before picking up their hammers and getting to work.

Do I have any physical limitations?

No matter how much home

improvement television shows may simplify projects, prospective DIYers should know that such undertakings are typically very difficult and oftentimes physically demanding. Homeowners with existing health conditions or other physical limitations may not be capable of performing certain tasks or may need to take frequent breaks, which can delay projects.

Do I have the time?

Many home improvement projects require a significant amount of time to complete.

Homeowners whose time is already stretched thin with commitments to work and/ or family may not be able to complete projects within a reasonable amount of time.

That’s fine if working on a part of the home that won’t affect daily life, but can prove stressful or problematic if the project is in a room, such as a kitchen or bathroom, that residents of the home use each day. Novice DIYers should

be especially honest with themselves about the time they have available to work on the project, as such homeowners are bound to experience a few time-consuming missteps along the way.

Can I afford it?

While DIY might seem more affordable than hiring a contractor, that’s not necessarily true. Novice DIYers may need to buy or rent tools, costs that can add up.

Contractors already have the tools necessary to begin and complete projects, so the cost savings of DIY might not be as significant as homeowners

think. Before going the DIY route, homeowners should solicit estimates from contractors, comparing the estimates to how much a project will cost if homeowners do it themselves.

Can I do it alone?

Many home improvement projects require more than one set of hands, and it’s risky and even foolish for firsttime DIYers to assume they can begin a project and see it through to completion entirely on their own. Homeowners whose spouses, partners, friends or relatives are willing to chip in may think that’s

enough. However, the DIY skills of those who volunteer may be a mystery until the project begins. Novice DIYers should enlist the help of a friend or family member with home improvement experience. If no such person is available, it may be wise to hire a contractor instead.

Home improvement projects may seem simple on television, but prospective do-ityourselfers must make honest assessments of their skills, time and budgets before taking on a DIY project.

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Make fall clean-up eco-friendly

Autumn is a prime time to tend lawns and gardens

Certain tasks become necessary once autumn arrives.

Whereas spring and summer were spent tending gardens and maintaining a yard prime for entertaining, autumn is about preparing properties to survive the winter. Just as with other jobs around the house and yard, fall clean-up can be done in a manner that is respectful to the environment.

Leave plant stalks and leaves It is tempting to want to cut back perennials and other greenery so a property looks neat. But as flowers and plants dry and drop to the ground, they help insulate the roots from the cold. They also provide a natural habitat and serve as a winter food source for birds and small animals.

Rake leaves sensibly Power blowers and mulchers make fast work of leaves, but at the expense of the environment. Gas-powered devices discharge fuel exhaust into the air, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Autumn is gardening season. That statement up vegetable gardens and start to sow cooler may not seem right to those who think of the weather plants, such as onions, garlic, beans and spring as the peak time to care for lawns and sweet peas. gardens. However, autumn is an ideal time to Rake and compost get into the garden and ensure that flowers, trees Rake the leaves and gather grass clippings to and garden beds will over-winter successfully. add to the compost pile.

A number of things make autumn a prime Plant spring bulbs gardening season. The cooler days of fall enable Get tulips and other spring bulbs ready for gardeners to spend ample time outdoors without planting so they’ll burst with color next year. the threat of blazing heat. In addition, soil Dig up herbs harbors a lot of residual warmth in autumn.

Relocate herbs like parsley or basil to indoor Also, the colder temperatures haven’t yet arrived gardens.

Otherwise, strip all leaves and freeze in autumn, nor have the leaves completely fallen, for storage during winter. making fall a prime time to assess what’s already Consider mums in the landscape, what needs pruning back and Chrysanthemum plants are perennials. where to address planting for next year.

While they look beautiful in pots, if planted, Gardening enthusiasts can focus their maintained and winterized, they can bloom attention on these areas this fall. every fall.

Pamper perennials Fertilize the lawn As annuals and perennials start to fall back, Fertilizing in autumn helps ensure grass will mark the spots where perennials are located so stay healthy throughout the winter. they can be easily identified later on. This way, when planning spots for spring bulbs or other Add mulch and compost to the garden spring layouts for next year, perennials won’t be Replenish spent soil with mulch and compost overlooked or covered over. so garden beds will be revitalized for spring planting.

Prune shrubs Look at shrubs and trees and cut out dead or Prune hedges diseased wood.

Tidy up hedges, as they won’t be growing much more this year.

Clean up borders Weed and tidy up borders Clean and store equipment and lawn edging.

Clean, sharpen and oil all equipment, storing Install pavers or rock lawn and garden wall tools properly so Embrace they are ready the cooler for spring and temperatures to not lying out all work on laborwinter. intensive projects Autumn may not such as putting seem like gardening in a garden bed, season, but there are retaining wall or plenty of lawn and walkway. garden tasks to tend Remove spent to during this time of summer veggies year.

Take out vegetable Source: MetroCreative garden plants that Mums are perennials. When properly planted Graphics Editorial have already bloomed and cared for, they can bloom every autumn. and borne fruit. Tidy

Minnesota Fresh Farm offers high quality, sustainably grown fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, cheese and more.

Instead, reap the benefits of peace and quiet as well as exercise from manual raking.

While raking, do not feel the need to remove every leaf.

A certain amount of organic matter can be beneficial to the soil and even insulate the lawn somewhat. A leftover leaf here or there also may provide protection for insects and small animals. For example, many native bees spend the winter in tunnels in the ground, cracks in mortar, holes in dead wood or within hollow stems, and they need lawn and garden litter to survive.

Compost is a friend Spread a thin layer of compost on the lawn and in garden beds. Compost prevents weed growth, insulates and protects the soil and provides nutrients that will be needed once the spring busy season begins. By using compost, homeowners can reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and weed killers.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

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SEPTEMBER 2018

Get your home fall-and winter-ready

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

Fall clean-up

If boots, a warm hat and a tunedup snow blower are the only items on your winter preparation list, your home maintenance plan may need a makeover.

These simple home maintenance projects can help lower your energy bills, prevent more costly repairs and/or increase the lifespan of your home.

Heating and ventilation Examine your fireplace and chimney system to ensure that no soot or creosote has collected. Any cracks or voids could potentially cause a fire.

Before you turn the furnace or boiler on, replace the air filter and hire a professional to inspect the unit more thoroughly. These steps will improve the efficiency and life of your furnace and will ensure stable indoor air quality.

Seal windows and doors If not properly sealed, windows and doors can be a major culprit for heat loss. To keep the warm air inside, inspect the weather-stripping around your home’s windows and doors for leaks, rot or decay. Repair or replace structural framing and caulk inside and out, if necessary.

Insulate well One of the easiest and most effective defenses against heat loss is proper insulation. Prevent cold drafts from entering and the loss of heated air through basement headers, which, when left exposed, can make your furnace work harder.

Look for a moisture-resistant product offering high thermal performance, such as Roxul Comfortbatt insulation. This type of mineral wool insulation makes installation simple. All that’s needed is a serrated blade or bread knife. Cut the batt to fit the cavity and press into place. The insulation will help improve energy efficiency as soon as it’s in place and provide

Check for drafts and leaks Fall is an ideal time to check windows and doors for cracks where water, air or insects can enter. Seal up holes and cracks, and ensure there are no drafty areas. Drafts can cause home heating and cooling systems to work harder, expending more energy than necessary.

Collect and harvest Be sure to gather any usable garden vegetables and fruits and prepare them for storage if they cannot be consumed in the next few days. Canning is a time-honored preservation method. Herbs and seeds can be dried and saved for use later on. Vacuum seal fresh basil and parsley.

Take inventory Look at which items in the yard have seen better days and prepare to recycle or reuse them in different ways.

Faded plastic planters can be used as impromptu bird baths in a garden. An old tire can be mulched and turned into soft material to put around a playset. Inquire as to the proper way to recycle plastic lawn chairs that may be broken.

Autumn yard work should be performed in as eco-friendly a fashion as possible.

Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial

savings over the lifetime of your home.

Comfortbatt can also be used to top or replace old attic insulation. Aim for an R-50 or a depth of 16 inches.

Backyard care Save your property from potential damage by trimming overgrown trees and shrubs to prevent ice-laden branches from thrashing against electrical wires and your home’s exterior. Drain/shut off any exterior faucets and sprinkler systems to FILE PHOTO prevent freezing. Ensure rain or snow drains away from the house to avoid foundation problems.

Roof and gutters Inspect your roof for shingles that are warped, damaged or even missing to prevent a future leak. Use roofing cement and a caulking gun to seal joints where water could penetrate, such as around the chimney, skylights or vent pipes. Make sure that your gutters and downspouts are securely fastened. Downspouts should extend at least five feet away from the home to prevent flooding.

When it comes to preventive maintenance, a little time and effort can save thousands in energy costs and repair bills over the lifetime of your home.

Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial

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Recycling Events It is time to get back to the basics of good recycling AMY ULBRICHT

COMMERCIAL WASTE MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST, ANOKA COUNTY, RECYCLING & RESOURCE SOLUTIONS

The fact is that some recycling actions make a bigger impact than others. Please remember these three basic rules the next time you recycle: ■ Recycle all empty plastic bottles, cans, paper cartons, clean paper and cardboard boxes. See the list below for acceptable items.

■ Remove food debris, liquid, plastic film and greasy or hazardous items from your recycling.

■ Place recyclables directly in your bin. Do not bag them. Return plastic bags to a local grocer or retailer. Go to AnokaCounty.us/recycle for options.

You’d be amazed by how big of an impact just following these simple rules can have! There are increasing amounts of non-recyclables being sent to recycling sorting facilities, and every single one of them must be removed by hand or mechanically sorted or they end up contaminating valuable recyclables. Non-recyclable items placed in recycling containers end up in the garbage, which increases the cost of the recycling process. The right thing to do is put the correct recyclables in the bins and don’t hope or wish that the haulers can magically recycle them. When in doubt, throw it out or contact Anoka County Recycling & Resource Solutions at AnokaCounty.us/recycle or 763-324-3400.

Place these items loose in your recycling bin, no plastic bags: ■ Paper (clean, staples okay): mail, office and school papers, magazines and catalogs, newspapers and inserts, phone books.

■ Boxes (flatten): cardboard, cereal, cracker and pasta boxes, shoe, gift and electronic boxes, toothpaste and other toiletry boxes, tissue boxes.

■ Plastic bottles and jugs (empty, rinse, caps on): water, soda and juice bottles, milk and juice jugs, ketchup and salad dressing bottles, dish soap bottles and detergent jugs, shampoo, soap and lotion bottles.

■ Plastic cups and containers (empty, rinse, lids on): yogurt, pudding and fruit cups, clear disposable cups (no straws), margarine, cottage cheese and similar containers, clear produce, deli and take-out containers.

■ Cartons (empty, rinse): milk cartons, juice cartons, juice boxes, soup, broth and wine cartons.

■ Metal (empty, labels okay): food cans, beverage cans.

■ Glass (empty, labels okay): food and beverage bottles and jars.

Leave these out, since they...

■ get tangled in or damage sorting equipment: plastic bags, ropes, hoses, shredded paper, chains, scrap metal and other bulky items.

■ harm workers: medical sharps, diapers, batteries, hazardous products.

■ are not recyclable: foil drink pouches, chip bags, candy wrappers, dishes, vases, mirrors, plastic straws and utensils, refrigerator and freezer boxes, Styrofoam, pizza boxes, black food trays and egg cartons.

Anoka County launches new recycling app Aluminum cans and newspapers are easy to recycle but what should you do with those plastic bags or pizza boxes?

Finding how to recycle, compost or dispose of hundreds of items is right in the palm of your hand!

Download our free recycling app on your device today. Simply search “Anoka County Recycles” in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

When planning their weddings, many brides-tobe devote a large portion of their wedding budgets to their wardrobes. Statistics released by The Knot in 2014 indicated the amount the average woman was willing to spend her gown was $1,281.

Because wedding gowns can be so expensive, many brides elect to have their gowns cleaned and preserved.

Reusing a wedding gown is a cost-effective and earthfriendly idea. The following are just some of great ideas for recycling a wedding gown.

Save it for younger generations One of the primary reasons to preserve a wedding gown is to save the dress for a daughter, granddaughter or another relative to wear at her own wedding.

Transform it into other attire There are a number of different occasions when wearing white is acceptable.

Religious ceremonies such as baptisms and communions qualify, and a wedding gown in the hands of an experienced seamstress or tailor can be transformed into a baby’s christening ensemble or a beautiful dress for a youngster about to receive First Holy Communion.

Donate the gown Brides in need may not have the funds to purchase their own beautiful gowns. Work with an organization that will provide dresses to the less fortunate. Or donate it FILE PHOTO

East Bethel Fall

RECYCLING DAY Saturday, September 22 8:00 a.m.-Noon EAST BETHEL ICE ARENA 20675 Hwy 65 NE, East Bethel

NO HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

Ways to recycle a wedding gown

Representatives reserve the right to refuse items.

Questions?

763-367-7840 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 Household Electronics Small ....................... Unlimited items $5 Medium....................................First item $5 Unlimited items $10 Large Electronics (Office)........First item $10 Unlimited items $20 Computer (Laptop or Tower)................FREE Monitor....................................................$15 ea Treadmill ..................................................$5 ea 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 ea HIDS bulbs................................................$2 ea 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 ea ** Appliances should be free of food and debris, not compacted. No commercial appliances.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

FURNITURE Mattress....................................................$25 ea Small Furniture (Lazy Boy, Chair).......$30 ea Couch.......................................................$40 ea Hide-A-Bed.............................................$50 ea TIRES Tires...............$5 ea / if attached to rim $6 ea Semi Tires................................................$10 ea LAWN EQUIPMENT

.....................$5 each, Tractors $10 ea ITEMS COLLECTED FOR

FREE

• Scrap metal (Freimuth Enterprises) • Computer hard drives/disk drives, cables, circuit boards • Used bicycles • Used oil and oil filters (East Side Oil) • Ink jet cartridges, cell phones and rechargeable batteries (East Bethel Royalty) • Used and new fishing rods and reels for Fishing for Life (East Bethel Royalty) • Automotive batteries, used eyeglasses/ hearing aids, laser cartridges and food shelf donations (Cedar/East Bethel Lions/Lionesses) • Worn and torn flags for proper disposal

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SEPTEMBER 2018

15

Fresh on the Farm

SHARON JOHNSON MINNESOTA FRESH FARM

Cover crops: recycling the earth itself

for nutrient recycling and honeybees.

The cover crop may be in the field for a short time, cut down and incorporated into the soil before it flowers or matures. This is called “green manure” and is very common in organic farming. Other farmers are using cover crops as an added source of revenue.

When you think of recycling, you might be looking at how to sort the waste that arises from a typical household. Farmers have a different view of recycling.

We need to figure out how to recycle and regenerate the land on which our crops grow.

Growing crops year after year on the same land depletes the soil of nutrients, damages the soil structure and contributes to erosion.

Many farmers are looking to “cover crops” to rejuvenate their fields and sustain farming there for many years to come. Farmers plant various crops in between their cash crops to build and repair their soil.

Cover crops come from a variety of plant types. Legume cover crops, such as clover, soybeans and alfalfa, are commonly used for their nitrogen contribution. Grass cover crops, including rye and oats, help with soil erosion and improve soil structure. Radishes, which are part of the Brassica family of plants, reduce compaction, recycle nutrients and offer weed control and disease suppression. Buckwheat is a fast-growing summer cover crop and is excellent Rye is now being used as a cover crop.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

Wedding gown to an organization that can sell the gown to fund projects for others in need. Another option is the Mary Madeline Project, which uses wedding dress fabrics to create burial outfits for stillborn infants.

Cut it up into usable fabric Wedding gown fabrics can be used in various applications.

Dresses can be transformed into decorative pillows or other wedding mementos. Stretch the fabric across a frame and use it as a blank canvas for a photo keepsake. The fabric also can work for baby cribs and infant basket skirting.

Use it as a Halloween costume Dress as a bride for Halloween. Otherwise, tailor the dress to fit a child and they can use it for any number of dress-up opportunities.

Donate it to a costume archive Theatrical companies may be able to use the fabric to create costumes for their productions.

Create a keepsake Cut a small piece of the fabric and put it into a pendant or locket. A piece of tulle or lace also can be placed inside a clear Christmas ornament and hung on the tree.

Wedding gowns can be upcycled into many new and innovative items. Doing so eliminates long storage times and can benefit others.

Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial

We’ve heard of farmers planting peas as a cover crop so that they are ready for u-pick at the same time that strawberries are available. It’s a way of creating revenue from a cover crop.

Cover cropping is not confined to organic farmers or small operations. Large farm operators understand that their land is their biggest asset and their means of continuing to farm. More and more large farm operators are slowly overcoming the initial obstacles that are presented with cover crops, such as the additional labor needed to plant them, following right on the heels of the cash crop harvest.

Farmers are stewards of the land, understanding the need to recycle the soil on which their crops grow. Some modern farmers have used cover crops for many years, aided and encouraged by university researchers who carefully gather data and then report on their benefits. Other farmers are just starting to experiment with what crops are most useful on their individual farms. Others are still learning and thinking. This is an evolution in farming—a slow evolution that offers a vision of black dirt WIKIMEDIA COMMONS PHOTO where gray fields exist today.

Did you know?

Debris from home improvement projects can often be recycled. According to Waste Management, the largest residential recycler and renewable energy provider in North America, common construction materials such as concrete, porcelain, tile, lumber, metals, masonry, plastic, carpet and insulation can potentially be recycled. When recycled, debris from construction projects may ultimately be used in various ways to benefit the planet. For example, such debris may be used as inerts that become road base, while clear wood may be transformed into mulch or biomass fuel. Crushed concrete can go on to live a second life as gravel or become dry aggregate for new concrete. Homeowners who want to recycle as much of their home improvement project debris as possible can work with Waste Management and/or their contractors to ensure the materials they no longer need continue to be put to good use.

Source: MetroCreative Graphics Editorial

YOU’RE INVITED! Gather your recyclables and join us for Fall Recycling Day! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. @ The Public Works Garage 815 Viking Blvd. NW

For accepted materials and prices visit www.ci.oak-grove.mn.us

2018 Goal 751

Tons

53 Tons

Recycled in July St. Francis has recycled 363 tons in 2018 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.

Fall Recycle Events Hosted by LePage and Sons

SATURDAYS SEPTEMBER 15 & OCTOBER 20 9:00 A.M.-NOON

23602 University Ave NW, Bethel Questions, please call LePage & Sons at 763-757-7100 or St. Francis Public Works at 763-233-5200.

RECYCLING DAYS

All Anoka County Residents Welcome Saturday, September 8, October 13 & November 10 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Appliances, electronics, fluorescent bulbs and mattresses will be accepted.

There is a charge for each item. (Mattresses $15 each piece, you unload.)

Contact JR’s Advanced Recycling at 651-454-9215.

FREE Document Shredding Questions call 763-767-5114.

ANDOVER RECYCLING CENTER

1785 Crosstown Blvd. NW, the Public Works Complex

16

SEPTEMBER 2018

THE COURIER | WWW.THE-COURIER.ORG

Community & Business East Bethel News

STEVEN VOSS MAYOR, CITY OF EAST BETHEL

Our already short summer is starting to fade into fall. There’s still plenty of time though to get out and enjoy our city (such as going to see the bison at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve which are leaving soon).

Cambia Hills Project The Cambia Hills Youth Mental Health Treatment project was approved by the

city council in August. The $26 million, 65,000 square-foot facility will be constructed at the southeastern corner of Jackson Street and 189 Avenue, south of Our Savior’s Church.

Construction of the Cambia Hills East Bethel facility will start this fall. Cambia Hills East Bethel will provide therapeutic treatment to children ages 6 to 17 who will reside at the

Architectural rendering of the exterior of Cambia Hills Project.

SUBMITTED RENDERING

11th Annual

Waterfowl Banquet Thursday, September 13 5:30-6:30 p.m. Social Hour 6:30 p.m. Dinner

facility. More information regarding the Cambia Hills project can be found on the city website.

Proposed Senior Living Facility In September, the city will begin considering approval of a new 70-unit senior living facility on the east side of Taylor Street, south of Viking Boulevard. Preliminary discussions with the applicant have indicated the two- or three-story facility will provide assisted living and memory care services. This facility will address a much needed and desired alternative for seniors wishing to remain in our area. The city is also been in recent discussions with several developers regarding other potential senior and independent living projects in our city.

Residential Developments Construction is progressing on the new 67-unit East Bethel Village Apartments, located along Highway 65, south of

the theater. The three-story apartment building with enclosed parking is expected to be completed in summer 2019.

Those large piles of dirt that we have been seeing along Viking Boulevard, west of Highway 65, are the signs of progress on the installation of utilities and site grading for the new 48 single family home development that will be known as Viking Preserve.

The utilities and roadwork will be completed this fall, and construction of several home sites is expected to commence in September. These small lot homes will provide our residents with another housing alternative in East Bethel.

Highway 65/Central Avenue Construction Road construction season in East Bethel is certainly here. As many have noticed, construction of the first reduced conflict intersection (RCI) at 187th Lane and Highway 65 has commenced.

The city has been working

Eric Schmoll Wealth Strategist The banquet will be held at St. Francis American Legion Post 622 3073 Bridge Street, St. Francis Contact Stew for more information 763-753-6230

All dollars raised stay in Minnesota!

GREAT FOOD - HUNTING THEMED RAFFLES • Demonstrations and activities for everyone!

• Learn what it takes to become a firefighter!

• Come and explore our fire station!

• Learn what it takes to join our youth fire exploring program!

• Drawings for smoke detectors!

• Bring a non-perishable food item to support the local foodshelf!

• Lions Club vs. Fire Department Chili Contest. You can be the judge!

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with MnDOT on detour plans and road closure schedules in an effort to minimize the disruption to the businesses and the traveling public during this process. Completion of the 187th Lane project is expected in early October.

The Central Avenue reconstruction project, east of Highway 65 across from the theater, is expected to be completed by the end of September. This project was started when an existing business wished to expand rather than relocate, but needed to be serviced by public water and sewer. Working with area business owners, the project was designed to provide all of the businesses with public utilities and construct a much needed road replacement.

MnDOT will also commence a highway improvement project at Sims Road and Highway 65 this fall, extending the left turns lanes for both the northbound and southbound traffic. The extension of these turn lanes will help improve traffic safety in this area.

Please take care while traveling through the construction zones and detours.

On behalf of the East Bethel City Council, please continue to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Remember school is starting soon—look out for kids.

East Bethel Fire Department

OPEN HOUSE Thursday, October 4 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Station #1 2751 Viking Boulevard NE

Saturday, October 22

9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

COME ENJOY the fun as we celebrate the artists, crafters and hobbyists in our midst.

CHECK OUT… glass, wood carving, fibers, painting, jewelry, quilting, ceramics, embroidery, authors, beading.

Refreshments available throughout the day.

OVER 30 BOOTHS!

Long Lake Lutheran Church 3921 277th Ave NW, Isanti, MN, about 5 miles north of St. Francis

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SEPTEMBER 2018

17

CountryFest is just around the corner JANICE AUDETTE

ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH

CountryFest, the largest party in North Anoka County, is back and better than ever! This year promises even more entertainment on the main stage, an amazing 5K tribute run/walk, more ribs available at our rib contest and easier access to our incredible food booth!

The event will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Oak Grove September 7-9. CountryFest kicks off Friday, September 7 with the youth block party, 8:0011:00 p.m. The block party is open to all middle school and high school youth. Highlights include Gaga Ball, pizza, a bonfire and of course, DJ BILL! There will also be a chance to win some great prizes. Tickets are $10 online or $15 at the door.

On Saturday, September 8, the day starts with the 5K tribute run/walk for all ages at 10:00 a.m. Come

JOIN US

for

Some Country Fun!

countryfest r ve o 0s n Wi 4,00 ize pr $

1cash & in

walk or run in honor of a loved one who has passed away. Registration information is available at www. st-patricks.org/countryfest.

The main festival starts at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday with delicious food, free children’s games, inflatables, bingo, country store with fresh produce and homemade baked goods, crafts and more. As always, we have the largest indoor silent auction around!

For entertainment, don’t miss Angie Senger at noon, Church of Cash at 2:00 p.m. and Touch of Magic at 4:30 p.m.

The annual BBQ RibFest contest is back for another year and takes place on Saturday afternoon.

Contestants will be tempting everyone with the mouth-watering scent of ribs cooking to perfection.

Ribs will be ready for sale at 6:15 p.m. and they won’t last long! We are looking for more contestants who want to show off their grilling skills and a chance to win a $1,000 prize. Visit our CountryFest web page for more details.

Be sure to enter the raffle drawing for a chance to win $10,000 cash and other cash prizes. Stay for dinner, try the ribs or a couple of homemade pulled pork sandwiches. At 7:00 p.m. enjoy our headliner, Shane Martin Band, who will play until 11:00 p.m. Our dazzling fireworks display will begin at 9:30 p.m.

On Sunday, September 10, CountryFest opens at 10:00 a.m. for games, inflatables, raffle, food and the silent auction. New entertainment on Sunday at 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. is

2018 CountryFest Schedule of Events

FrIday, SEptEmbEr 7

8:00-11:00p.m. Youth Block Party with “DJ Bill”- Gaga ball & other games, pizza, bonfire, grand prize drawing and more.

Online $10, at door $15

SatUrday, SEptEmbEr 8

10:00a.m. Tribute 5K walk/Run

for all ages see website for registration information 11:00a.m. Raffles, food, bingo, silent auction, FREE children’s games and a lot more fun

Noon New! ANGIe SeNGeR 2:00p.m. New! ChuRCh OF CASh 4:30p.m. TOuCh OF MAGIC & balloon sculptures

5:00p.m. Mass 6:15p.m. BBQ RIBFeST CONTeST

Life on a String. The classic car show begins at noon and runs until 4:00 p.m. Come and see your favorite vintage and classic cars.

The annual quilt auction begins on Sunday at 12:45 p.m. There will be more than 30 homemade quilts of all sizes to bid on. To see the many choices prior to CountryFest, visit our website. The silent auction is a favorite for all. Your final bids must be in by 3:00 p.m. on Sunday.

CountryFest activities wrap up with the raffle drawing on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. You could be the winner of the $10,000 grand prize, $2,000 for second place and $1,000 for third place. This is, of course, in addition to our many other fabulous prizes that will also be raffled off!

For more information, visit www.stpatricks.org/ countryfest or call 763-753-2011.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Highlights This Year New Entertainment FREE! Children’s Games & Prizes Tribute 5K Walk/Run Honor a Loved One! Annual RibFest Contestants wanted - win cash.

Grand prize $1,000!

SUNday, SEptEmbEr 9 9:00 & 11:00a.m. Mass 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m. Raffles, food, silent auction, FREE children’s games and a lot more fun

10:30a.m.

Noon-4:00p.m. Classic Car Show 12:45p.m. Annual Quilt Auction view quilts on the church website prior to CountryFest

Ribs for sale until gone.

Prizes awarded at 7:30 p.m.

7:00-11:00p.m. ShANe MARTIN BANd 9:30p.m. Fireworks display

Quilts!

New! LIFe ON A STRING

3:00p.m. Silent auction closes 4:00p.m. Raffle drawing

New Music!

www.st-patricks.org

Ribs!

SEPTEMBER 2018

Master Gardener Anoka County recruitment and informational event LYNNE HAGEN

UMN EXTENSION MASTER GARDENER PROGRAM COORDINATOR, ANOKA COUNTY

The University of Minnesota (UMN) Extension Master Gardener Program in Anoka County (ACMG) is now accepting applications for the 2019 Master Gardener program. The ACMGs are offering a free informational event on Thursday, September 27, 6:30-9:00 p.m. for persons interested in learning about and applying to the program.

The ACMG program has more than 100 volunteers who receive professional training in consumer horticulture and are charged with educating youth and adults through a variety of programs and services in exchange for their volunteer time. Their mission is to connect research-based horticulture resources from the University of Minnesota while addressing issues in our environment that are important for the health and well-being of our communities.

On September 27, participants will experience an educational seminar taught by an industry professional, plus hear from current ACMGs about the large array of activities that they participate in. A light supper will also be provided.

Participants will become better informed about determining if the ACMG volunteer program will be a good fit for them. All candidates should have an active interest in gardening and have a desire for learning and sharing their knowledge of gardening through various ACMG program activities.

This event is informative-only and does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

There is no charge to attend but preregistration is required. Register online at www.anokamastergardeners.org or call 763-324-3495.

THE COURIER | WWW.THE-COURIER.ORG

Business Spotlight

SHAWNDA SCHELINDER STAFF WRITER

Andover Optical celebrates 30 years As Tina Adler, owner of Andover Optical, reflects upon the 30 years the practice has been in business, she can point to many changes in technology and industry practices. But one thing remains the same – the philosophy she and the professionals at Andover Optical espouse.

“We care about our patients’ vision and what they need,” Adler said. “We don’t do high-pressure sales. We don’t work on commission. We hope to work with the patients, teach them and let them decide the best course of action for themselves.”

It’s a guiding principle that has helped make the practice successful, weathering and keeping up with the changes that naturally come in three decades of business.

Andover Optical employs two doctors of optometry, Dr. Jeff Smith and Dr. Amanda Stoltman. Three opticians, including Adler, and a receptionist round out the staff.

Together, their combined experience well surpasses 100 years.

Adler started her career in the field at age 18 as a receptionist. She found she enjoyed the line of work and studied for the optician’s exam. She spent some time working for private

practice clinics, as well as some of the larger chain stores where sales and up-charges were the driving force.

She returned to a private practice, and after 14 years there, determined it was time to start her own practice. “I did some of everything in the office and thought, why not open my own business? I figured I knew how to do it all,” Adler said. So with the blessing and even a little guidance from her previous employer, she opened Andover Optical on August 8, 1988.

Since then, Adler has witnessed a great deal of changes in the field. “I would say one of the biggest changes has been in insurance,” Adler said.

“Now, insurance covers eye exams; there are some nice plans out there that cover vision.”

Of course, technology has also improved. Andover Optical assists with post-operative care for patients who have undergone cataract surgery and similar procedures. “It used to be that you would have to stay overnight in a hospital after cataract surgery.

Now you’re heading home the same day.”

Retinal cameras and other equipment have also improved, making early diagnosis of vision problems easier.

The culture around eye care has also changed, as eye screenings are recommended before

COURIER PHOTO

children start school. And of course, the effects of screen time wasn’t even a concept explored by professionals 30 years ago.

“Now we have a lens that can help with eye fatigue and blocking blue light from staring at phones, computers and devices,” Adler said. “That’s only been out for about a year and a half.”

Andover Optical carries almost every brand and option for lenses and contacts. They stand behind their warranties as well. “About the only thing we don’t cover is if the dog ate your glasses… and we’ve had a few of those,” Adler said.

Andover Optical also offers a budget line for price-conscious consumers.

Adler advises patients against getting drawn in by the lower priced products from the large box stores. “You won’t see the low-end products here because they’re not good lenses,” Adler said.

When customers compare the same product with the same finishes, Andover Optical’s packages often come out as a better deal.

Andover Optical accepts most health insurance plans and new clients are welcome.

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19

Travel notes from the beautiful Emerald Isle KATHLEEN MILLER

STAFF WRITER

A group of 38 travelers from the St. Francis area, with passports in hand, departed to Dublin, Ireland June 20. The 10-day trip, sponsored by St. Francis Area Schools Community Education, was about to begin.

Interested community members gathered last October to learn more about the trip to Ireland that had been advertised in The Courier and Community Education catalog, on the school district website and social media accounts and announced at a variety of meetings and gatherings. Tripgoers registered online and a payment schedule was established.

When departure day finally arrived, everyone was excited to embark on this adventure. The group landed in Dublin and was met by tour guide and coach bus driver, Brian. Once our luggage was loaded onto the bus, we were off to Galway. After a breakfast stop at a castle, we had a full day ahead of us visiting Clonmacnoise and traveling across the Emerald Isle, living up to its name with all of the beautiful, green countryside. Our first two nights were spent in Galway, where the bay is beautiful. It was exciting to look to the west, across the bay toward the Atlantic Ocean and think about our homes and how far we had traveled.

Brian, with his Scottish accent and wealth of Irish knowledge, skillfully drove the coach bus over the narrow country roads to the sights of Connemara. We visited Kylemore Abbey, a most delightful stop that day. This magical “castle” is visible from across a lake with a backdrop of wooded hillside — one of the highlights of the trip.

The next two nights would be spent at the Lake Hotel Killarney, a beautiful historic hotel on a lake, complete with castle ruins and rolling mountains

LDK

Thirty-eight community members traveled to Ireland June 20-29. The trip, sponsored by Community Education, a division of St. Francis Area Schools, was a great way to travel abroad to visit many iconic and historic Irish landmarks.

COURIER PHOTO

across the way. During those days, travel was along the Atlantic seaboard on the west coast and included the Cliffs of Moher, which had spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. This was another sensational day of photo opportunities.

The Ring of Kerry and lunch at the Blind Piper Pub rounded out day five.

The group departed for Cork City on the banks of the River Lee. Macroom Castle, Blarney Castle, Blarney Woolen Mills and the Old Midleton Distillery were on the schedule; truly something for everyone! Walking through the English Market the next day, visiting the historic town of Kinsale and Charles Fort, the group continued to engage with the rich history and delightful treasures of Ireland. The last two nights were spent in Dublin. On the road to the city, we stopped at the Rock of Cashel, had lunch at an Irish family’s farm and visited the Irish National Stud and Japanese Garden… so many new experiences, so many memories.

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Once in Dublin, we visited Trinity College where the Book of Kells is on display. We were then off to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Guinness Storehouse at St. James’ Gate, which 360° space offered a spectacular view of Dublin in every direction.

Before we knew it, it was time to close up the suitcase and head to the airport for our return flight. Everyone had been prepared for rain, which is quite common for Ireland, but during this trip, not a drop of rain fell. Everything was green and beautiful, but the locals were concerned about the recent dry spell. The food, the music, the sounds and smells of Ireland—each of us in the group will have our own special memories to keep.

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After taking this trip, I am more excited than ever to travel as much as possible in the future. I would love to return to Ireland and visit the northern part of the country and perhaps take a ferry across to Scotland and Wales.

Traveling with family, friends, coworkers and community members as a group was a pleasure. All of the accommodations, lodging and transportation was taken care of, which made this truly a vacation to remember.

And, like all good things, our trip came to an end too soon. We arrived home, tired but safe and sound, with plenty of pictures and fond memories.

Stay tuned for future trips sponsored

by St. Francis Area Schools Community Education.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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Financial Focus

BLAKE CHEELEY EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Financial tips for Alzheimer’s caregivers If you are, or will be, a caregiver for elderly parents or another close family member living with Alzheimer’s disease, you may experience some emotional stress, but you also need to be aware of the financial issues involved and what actions you can take to help address them.

You will find few “off the rack” solutions for dealing with the financial challenges

associated with Alzheimer’s.

For one thing, family situations can vary greatly, both in terms of the financial resources available and in the availability and capabilities of potential caregivers. Furthermore, depending on the stage of the disease, people living with Alzheimer’s may have a range of cognitive abilities, which will affect the level of care needed.

Here are some general

suggestions that may be useful to you in your role as caregiver: Consult with family members and close friends It’s extremely hard to be a solo caregiver. By consulting with other family members or close friends, you may find that

some of them have the time and ability to help.

Consider obtaining durable power of attorney If you possess a durable power of attorney for finances, you can make financial decisions for the person with

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All six Anoka Hennepin Credit Union branches created an August Blizzard® of Support event. The credit union purchased Dairy Queen® Blizzards® for each employee on Miracle Treat Day. On treat day $1 or more of every Blizzard®sold at a participating DQ®stores is donated to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals raise funds to help save and improve the lives of kids treated at 170 children’s hospitals across the United States and Canada.

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Alzheimer’s when he or she is no longer able. With this authority, you can help the individual living with the disease and your entire family to avoid court actions that can take away control of financial affairs. And on a short-term basis, having durable power of attorney can help you take additional steps if needed.

You’ll find it much easier to acquire durable power of attorney when the individual living with Alzheimer’s is still in the early stage of the disease and can willingly and knowingly grant you this authority.

Gather all necessary documents You’ll be in a better position to help the individual living with Alzheimer’s if you have all the important financial documents, bank statements, insurance policies, wills, Social Security payment information, deeds, etc. in one place.

Get professional help You may want to consult with an attorney, who can advise you on establishing appropriate arrangements, such as a living trust, which provides instructions about the estate of the person for whom you’re providing care and names a trustee to hold title to property and funds for the beneficiaries.

You also might want to meet with a financial advisor, who can help identify potential resources and money-saving services. And a tax professional may be able to help you find tax deductions connected to your role as caregiver.

Finally, use your experience as a caregiver to reminder yourself of the importance of planning for your own needs. For example, a financial professional can suggest ways of preparing for the potentially huge costs of long-term care, such as those arising from an extended stay in a nursing home.

Caring for an individual living with Alzheimer’s has its challenges. But by taking the appropriate steps, you can reduce uncertainties and possibly give yourself and your family members a greater sense of security and control.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

21

Sports & Outdoors St. Francis High School football summer recap BRENT SWAGGERT

SFHS FOOTBALL COACH PHOTOS BY MICHELLE STEWART AND TONY HOGLUND

The St. Francis High School football team had a fun and productive summer of training and development for the 2018 season. Over 100 players took part in summer camps, community service projects, youth camps and summer

strength and conditioning in preparation for the August 31 kickoff versus the Sauk RapidsRice Storm. The varsity team returns 19 of 22 starters from last year’s offense and defense units that made a last season charge to the Section 7AAAAA championship game for the fourth consecutive season.

We hope to see you on Friday nights this fall!

Fourteen St. Francis High School skill position players had a chance to compete with 15 other high school teams from around the state at the annual Minnesota Vikings High School 7-on-7 Tournament held at the new Vikings training facility. The Saints lost two closely contested games to Tartan and Maple Grove. The young group of skilled players that participated had a great learning experience at the Vikings’ new outdoor turf stadium.

More than 60 high school athletes participated as coaches during the youth football camp held at the end of July at St. Francis Middle School. One hundred and twenty K-8th grade youth players took part in the three-day camp. Campers did offensive and defensive individual position drills and competed in 7-on-7 games, chicken football, zone passing, tug of war and truck pull competitions.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

2018 Varsity Football Schedule 08/31/18 @ Sauk Rapids-Rice 09/07/18 Home vs. Buffalo (Military/First Responders Appreciation Night) 09/14/18 @ Monticello 09/21/18 Home vs. Rogers (Homecoming) 09/28/18 Home vs. Elk River (Youth Night) 10/05/18 @ Chisago Lakes 10/12/18 @ Cambridge-Isanti 10/17/18 Home vs. Andover (Senior/Parent Appreciation Night)

St. Francis Boys & Girls Grades 3/4-8

Basketball Association Tryouts SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

at St. Francis High School

Register ONLINE ONLY at www.sfbaonline.com Early bird registration by September 15, cost is $325 Register between September 16-30, cost is $350

´ Third graders are encouraged to tryout for 4th grade team. ´ A $150 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

Tryout Times 3rd/4th Grade • 2:00-3:00 p.m.

5th Grade • 3:00-4:00 p.m.

6th Grade • 4:00-5:00 p.m.

7th Grade • 5:00-6:00 p.m.

8th Grade • 6:00-7:00 p.m.

If interested, please fill out a coach’s application online. You do not need to have a child in the program to coach. Non-parent coaches receive pay.

22

SEPTEMBER 2018

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Anoka County Library debuts backpack kits for outdoor exploration

BY KARLY HALL

ANOKA COUNTY LIBRARY

Anoka County Library now has circulating backpack kits patrons can check out for use in their outdoor exploration and adventures. Each backpack contains a set of binoculars, a magnifying viewer, leaf rubbing plates and a field guide to help explorers identify plants and wildlife.

Additionally, the Anoka County Parks department donated park passes and a map for each kit, allowing explorers to visit local parks for free.

“The library continues to look for new ways to provide access and resources to its communities,” said Maggie Snow, Anoka County Library director. “These backpacks will encourage children and families to get outside and

explore their local parks while learning about native plants and wildlife.”

The kits will have a standard three-week checkout, like all materials in the library and will allow users to easily explore the outdoors in their community.

The funds for this program were provided by the Friends of the Anoka County Public Library, with a special thanks to Anoka County Parks for the

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.

park pass donations.

Please visit www. anokacountylibrary.org or your

local library branch for more information.

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge hosts free events JESSICA NELSON

SHERBURNE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE VISITOR SERVICES VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

4th Annual Kids’ Photography Contest Now through October 6 K-12 students are encouraged to submit one photo that they’ve taken on the refuge. Examples of photos accepted for the contest include landscape scenery and snapshots of wild plants and animals. Entries are due by Saturday, October 6, and winners will be announced on November 14. Prizes are awarded to the top three photos and to honorable mentions.

Wildflower Tour Saturday, September 8 10:00 a.m.–noon Oak Savanna Learning Center Join us for a tour to see wildflowers and native grasses whose colors and textures decorate the fall landscape. Led by volunteer Robin DeLong.

Wildlife Festival Saturday, September 29 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Oak Savanna Learning Center Join us for a fun-filled, family friendly day full of activities, including presentations and booths with live animals, horse drawn wagon rides and nature crafts. Food is available for purchase.

Nighttime Exploration Saturday, October 13 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Oak Savanna Learning Center Join refuge staff for a special night hike. Bring your observation skills and dress for the weather.

All events are free and pre-registration is suggested by visiting www.fws.gov/refuge/sherburne for more information.

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is located at 17076 293rd Avenue NW, Zimmerman.

Forest Kids Club at Wargo Nature Center ANDY SOLTVEDT

VISITOR SERVICES MANAGER

Wargo Nature Center is encouraging kids to spend their free time exploring nature. The Forest Kids Club provides preschool children ages 3-5 opportunities to learn from a naturalist while exploring, adventuring and learning. Naturalists will work with participants on their school-readiness skills by exploring nature through investigating habitats and learning about seasonal changes in the outdoors.

To encourage even the youngest explorers, the Forest Kids Club will provide opportunities to learn about the natural environment, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays during the school year. Wargo Nature Center Naturalist Whitney Loher is very excited to engage these young learners. “Forest Kids Club will allow children to use their five senses,” she said. “We’ll explore themes in nature through hiking, games, science experiments, crafts and music. The forest is an amazing classroom and nature is a great teacher. Kids will brainstorm their own nature topics they’d like to explore and learn more about.”

Registration is currently open for the fall session. If you are interested in learning more or would like to register, visit www. anokacountyparks.com or contact Wargo Nature Center at 763324-3350.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

Anoka County Parks and Recreation activities ANDY SOLTVEDT

ANOKA COUNTY PARKS AND REC VISITOR SERVICES MANAGER

Check out Anoka County Parks and Recreation for fun seasonal programs and activities. To register or for more information, call 763-324-3350 or visit anokacountyparks.com.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding Cost: $20/person (+tax) Ages 16+ September 5, 5:00-6:30 p.m.

Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve September 13, 4:00-5:30 p.m.

East Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park Paddle boards are a great way to get out on the water and be active. Class sizes are small and the instruction is short and easy. Pre-registration is required.

Kayaking – The Next Level Cost: $25/person (+tax) Ages 16+ September 5; 3:00-5:00 p.m.

East Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park This class is designed for the kayaker with some previous paddling experiences. Learn a variety of second-level skills including wet exits and entries, draw and sweep strokes, bracing and more. Preregistration required.

Nordic Walking Cost: $10/person (+tax) Ages 15+ September 13, 9:00-10:15 a.m.

Wargo Nature Center It takes a simple walk and turns it into a full body workout and it doesn’t feel like you are working any harder! Increase your heart rate, burn more calories and strengthen your upper body.

Pre-registration required.

Lunch with a Naturalist FREE! Ages 50+ September 5 (Spiders) 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Wargo Nature Center Bring your lunch and

join a naturalist for these monthly presentations which include local natural history information and possibly a relaxing stroll on the trails.

Any equipment that may be needed will be provided. Preregistration is not required.

Nature Play Cost: $3/child and $3/adult (+tax), Ages 2-5 (with an adult) September 6 (Forest Friends) 10-11:15 a.m.

Wargo Nature Center Get outside and learn about all the action that’s happening in nature this time of year.

We’ll play games and look for signs of fall in this fun morning adventure. This program is geared for 2-5-year olds who are accompanied by an adult.

Pre-registration is required.

Kayaking on George Watch Lake Cost: $5/person (+ tax) Ages 11-18 September 6, 10:00 a.m.noon and 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Wargo Nature Center You will be taught basic kayak paddle strokes and safety, and then explore George Watch Lake and the Rice Creek. Kayaks, paddles and PFEs provided. Pre-registration is required.

Pre-K Forest Kids Club Cost: Fall: September 5- December 19, No class November 21, $75/person +tax, 15 sessions Ages 4-5 Wednesdays, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Wargo Nature Center This weekly Preschool Nature Club children will spend every Wednesday on their school readiness skills by exploring nature through investigating habitats and learning about seasonal changes in the outdoors. This is a great hands-on experience for young children. A Wargo Naturalist will guide the participants to follow their hearts and create fantastic outdoor adventures!

Pre-registration is required.

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23

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 Three seniors were chosen to participate in the inaugural Minnesota Vikings High School Elite Camp held at the new TCO practice facility in Eagan. Pictured (LR) Riley Huebner, Kyle Lindenfelser and Nick Gerlach did a great job representing St. Francis High School at the oneday event held July 14.

St. Francis Youth Hockey

LEARN TO SKATE LEARN TO PLAY Sessions

The St. Francis Youth Hockey Association is offering their annual learn to skate/learn to play clinics for boys and girls. Each session will be 45-60 minutes in length.

LEARN TO SKATE

Absolutely NO prior skating skills required. At the end of the session, the goal for your new skater is to skate independently. Open to all ages.

LEARN TO PLAY

This program is an introduction to hockey for a new skater. Hockey gear is encouraged and available free to use for this program. Open to all ages.

Session 1:

Saturdays October 6, 13, 20, 27

Session 2:

Saturdays November 17, 24; December 1, 8

Session 3:

Saturdays January 5, 12, 19, 26 Times will be in the late afternoon/ early evening and published prior to each session.

Location: East Bethel Ice Arena Cost: $35 for each session

on For more informati e or to register onlin

www.sfyha.com

24

SEPTEMBER 2018

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Meetings, Benefits & Events National Alopecia Areata Foundation Fundraiser

A fundraiser is being held in honor of Skylar Knoll, an eight-year-old who has Alopecia Areata, an auto-immune disease that makes her hair fall out. It is unpredictable in all aspects: when it will strike, how much hair will be lost and when or whether hair will regrow.

There is no known cure for it. Knoll and her parents are going to have a kickball tournament fundraiser on September 15 at Booster Park in East Bethel to raise money for the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF).

Those interested in helping can either make a team and play or donate online at https://support.naaf.org/event/ kickin’-it-for-alopecia/e189277 and click donate now.

Contact Nicole Knoll at 763-2289912 or nknoll23@gmail.com for more information.

St. Francis Area Schools SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS: September 10 & 24 Dialogue with the School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. and October 8 & 22 Dialogue with the School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. at District Office, Community Room, 4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St. Francis.

City & Township Meetings ANDOVER CITY COUNCIL Meets first & third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover 763-755-5100 BETHEL CITY COUNCIL Meets first & third Thursday, 7:00 p.m.

23820 Dewey Street, Bethel, 763-434-4366 NOWTHEN CITY COUNCIL Meets second Tuesday, 7:00 p.m.

19800 Nowthen Boulevard NW, Nowthen 763-441-1347 EAST BETHEL CITY COUNCIL Meets first & third Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.

2241 221st Avenue NE, East Bethel 763-367-7840 OAK GROVE CITY COUNCIL Meets second & last Monday, 7:00 p.m.

19900 Nightingale Street NW, Oak Grove 763-404-7000 ST. FRANCIS CITY COUNCIL Meets first & third Monday, 6:00 p.m.

St. Francis Area Schools District Office, St. Francis, 763-753-2630 STANFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets first Monday, 7:00 p.m.

5050 261st Avenue NW, Isanti, 763-444-6370

Business EDWARD JONES COFFEE CLUB Meets the second Tuesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. at Bridge Street Coffee, 3122 Viking Blvd. NW, Oak Grove.

American Legion

Seniors

Community Service

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.

OAK GROVE SENIORS Meet at noon the second and fourth Wednesday of the month, Oak Grove City Hall for a potluck and short business meeting, bingo follows.

For information about the club and events, call Sandy Dabrowski at 763-689-1705.

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.

ST. FRANCIS SENIORS Life is good when you can make new friends, get out and enjoy the multitude of activities that our community has to offer. We meet the first and third Thursday of each month, social time and lunch begins at noon, with the meeting beginning at 1:00 p.m. and games until 3:00 p.m. FREE Coffee for Veterans, first Thursday of each month 8:30-10:30 a.m.

We play cards, bingo, scrabble, cribbage, go on trips, lunch outings, have picnics and stay active as we get older. All meetings are at St. Francis City Hall Meeting Room, 23340 Cree Street NW, St. Francis. Come and see what we are about. Call Rollie Spier at 612501-0916 or Ray Steinke at 763-464-0100 for more info.

Everyone is welcome to join the Friends of the Isanti County Library at their fun planning meetings on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in Isanti. For more information or to be included on our mailing list contact Susi@IsantiLibrary.org or 763-444-4585.

Lions/Lioness CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONS CLUB Meets bimonthly, first and third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., at Maxx’s Restaurant & Bar on Hwy. 65. Call Judy Ricke at 763-226-4893.

OAK GROVE LIONS CLUB Meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Oak Grove City Hall, 7:00 p.m., adjourning at 8:00 p.m. For more information, call Lion Mark Silvernagel at 763-753-2215.

NOWTHEN LIONS CLUB Are you looking to serve in your community of Nowthen?

Meet new friends? Have a lot of fun? Come join the Nowthen Lions Club! The Nowthen Lions meet at Nowthen City Hall on the first Thursday of the month for the board meeting and on the third Thursday of the month for the membership meeting. Please email jlhbells@earthlink.net.

ST. FRANCIS LIONESS CLUB Meets monthly. First Wednesday, administrative board and third Wednesday, general membership meeting at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are held at St. Francis City Hall, 23340 Cree Street. For more information, call Mary Madden at 763-444-5020 or Cheryl Eldstrom at 763-753-4602 or email bluesage51@ gmail.com.

ST. FRANCIS LIONS CLUB 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.

CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIONESS CLUB Meets the first Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at Maxx’s Restaurant & Bar on Hwy. 65.

For membership information call Yvonne Johnson, 763-434-6985. We Serve!

Health & Fitness NEW EAST BETHEL TOPS Weight loss support group meeting. Meeting held at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 1450 237th Avenue NE, East Bethel, Mondays at 5:30 p.m. Visitors are welcome to their first meeting free of charge with no obligation.

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.

EAST BETHEL SENIORS Dances are held 1:00-4:00 p.m. Cost is $6, lunch included.

Old time music will be played by Jerry Bierschbach on Friday, September 7.

Entertainment scheduled for October 5 is Dick Szyplinski. Are you 55 or older? Come and enjoy some companionship. All are welcome. Seniors meet the third Thursday of each month for a business meeting and catered noon lunch, 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.; learning to quilt the first Saturday of the month, 9:00-11:00 a.m.; second Wednesday of each month is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon; fourth Wednesday is crafts only, 9:00 a.m.noon. We also go on tours, etc. Rent the Senior Center, call Dennis at 763-434-9244.

Join East Bethel Seniors for $10 a year and receive a monthly newsletter. The East Bethel Senior Center is located one mile east of Highway 65 on 221st Avenue in East Bethel.

AA/NA AA/NA Meeting at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in East Bethel. NA on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., AA on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., NA on Fridays at 6:30 p.m.

AA Meets at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Jobs!

St. Francis Area Schools is looking for the following: custodians, educational assistants, nutrition services, bus drivers, delivery specialist and substitutes. Please visit www.isd15.org and click on employment.

Find your next job with MinnesotaJobs.com!

We’ve been helping connect employers and job seekers for over 20 years. Visit our site to find your next job. We have employers with immediate openings for Direct Support Professionals, CDL Drivers, Machinists/ Tool Designers and much, much more. No registration necessary! Simply search and apply. Go to minnesotajobs.com to get started today!

NORTH ANOKA COUNTY FOODSHELF (NACE) Provides food and clothing for people in need through the generosity of our community. Hours of operation are: Monday 9:00 a.m.-Noon, Tuesday 5:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday 1:00-4:00 p.m., Thursday 8:00-11:00 a.m. NACE is located at 18511 Hwy. 65 NE, Suites 100, 200 in East Bethel. For more information, to donate or volunteer, please call 763-434-7685 or visit www.nacefoodshelf.org.

LONG LAKE LUTHERAN CHURCH Invites you to join us, free of charge, for GriefShare on Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. 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.

Area Chambers of Commerce ST. FRANCIS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Board meeting is the third Wednesday (September 19) of each month, 11:00 a.m. at the St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street, St. Francis.

Meetings are open to the public. Visit www.stfrancischamber.org or call 763-438-5163 for more details.

NORTH 65 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE For more information about the North 65 Chamber visit www.north65chamber.com.

EAST BETHEL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Board meeting is September 25, 8:009:00 a.m. at Aggressive Hydraulics, 18800 Ulysses Street NE, Cedar. Visit www. eastbethelchamber.com for more info.

HAM LAKE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Board of Directors meeting is September 19, 9:00 a.m., location to be determined. Visit www.hamlakechamber for location and more information.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

25

Life Come grow with us — become an Extension Master Gardener ROD GREDER

MASTER GARDENER COORDINATOR, ISANTI COUNTY

If you have an interest in plants and gardening and would enjoy sharing the interest with others, come grow with us! Become a University of Minnesota (UMN) Extension Master Gardener in Isanti County. Applications are being accepted until Monday, October 1.

Started in 1977, the master gardener program has grown to include more than 2,300 active master gardeners who

share UMN horticultural expertise in almost every county of the state of Minnesota.

The mission of the UMN Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program is to use research-based horticultural knowledge and practices to deliver educational outreach and project-based efforts that inspire change and promote healthy people, healthy communities and a healthy planet.

Individuals selected for the program begin an internship that starts with the

Master Gardener Core Course training that begins in January 2019. The course is taught online or in-person at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

Instructors are UMN Extension educators and faculty.

Following the course, interns will complete 50 hours of volunteer time in the first year working with local master gardeners on a variety of projects that educate the public about gardening and horticulture. You might answer plant questions by phone or in an information booth, or write newspaper columns. Locally, master gardeners are also involved in horticulture

Anoka Conservation District announces video winners KATHY BERKNESS

ANOKA CONSERVATION DISTRICT

The Anoka Conservation District (ACD) recently held its first video contest. The goal of the video contest was to encourage youth in Anoka County to learn about stormwater, the potential issues it may cause and actions anyone can take to help reduce the negative effects. An additional, a goal was to encourage students to learn how to communicate those issues and solutions to their peers through a multimedia platform. The contest was open for students between the ages of 12 and 21 who either live or go to school in Anoka County. The ACD had three different categories: one for youth in the 10th grade or younger, one for young adults in the 11th grade or older and one for groups.

All videos that were submitted were judged by a panel of seven judges from across Anoka County, with the ACD board making the final award decisions.

The ACD held the awards ceremony at Ham Lake Park on July 16. The grand prize was awarded to Julia Fultz-Flores for her “Open Your Eyes to Freshwater’s Demise” video. The groups category winner went to Cory Harmon, Maya Chavez and Montana Frederiksen for their

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Stay tuned on the ACD website and Facebook page for other stories and updates on future contests visit AnokaSWCD.org and follow Anoka Soil & Water Conservation District on Facebook.

Ask Fido:

What makes Fido’s your favorite home away from home?

“Easy. Four free walks a day, every day I’m here!”

Rally Sunday Sunday, September 9

Worship times 8:00 & 9:30 a.m.

Register for Sunday School (age 2–grade 5), Confirmation (grades 6–9) and High School Youth Group (grades 9-12).

Kids, enjoy a bouncy house as we kick off the year!

Long Lake Lutheran Church Join us for worship Sundays 8:00 & 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday 6:00 p.m.

educational days, education booths, and educational garden tours.

After completing the internship, you become a certified UMN Extension Master Gardener. To remain certified, master gardeners must contribute at least 25 hours of volunteer service annually. Following is a link to the UMN Extension website with additional information on becoming an Extension Master Gardener https://extension. umn.edu/master-gardener/becomemaster-gardener-volunteer.

For an application packet and more information, call UMN Extension – Isanti County, 763-689-1810. Questions can also be emailed to trupe003@umn. edu or gred0014@umn.edu .

3921 277th Avenue NW Isanti, MN 55040 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.org

GARAGE SALE September 6 & 7

7:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.

Proceeds benefit LLLC 2018 youth trips.

More personal care boarding perks:

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• $18 per day plus a multi dog discount • Pick-up/drop-off 365 days a year • 24 hour on-site care • Maintaining Fido’s routine of pottying outside­—we’re not in the business of starting bad habits • Free medication administration

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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Alexandra House expands on Walk For Hope Event Renaming the event and holding its inaugural HopeFest!

TINA BRONSON

COMMUNICATIONS MARKETING DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HOUSE

Following 13 successful years hosting the Walk for Hope, Alexandra House is reinvigorating the event to draw in more families and members of the community. HopeFest, formerly the Walk for Hope, will be held on Saturday, September 29, at Bunker Hills Regional Park in Andover. HopeFest, like the Walk, is a family and dog-friendly event that includes a 5K fun run, a two-mile walk and a vendor and exhibitor fair.

This year the event will also include a Kidz Dash (for kids ages 3-10) and Kidz Zone with inflatables, games, face painting and more. In addition, The Bones Brothers will be selling their mouth-watering BBQ with all proceeds from their food sales benefiting Alexandra House. Last year, over 550 community members took part and raised over $50,000 for Alexandra

House’s programs and services.

Confirmed vendors this year include: Chuck & Don’s Pet Food and Supplies, providing a water station and “pupmenities,” The Bones Brothers providing their mouth-watering barbecue for sale with the proceeds benefiting Alexandra House and Nothing Bundt Cakes, selling their signature bundt cakes.

HopeFest will be held at Bunker Hills Regional Park, Pavilion #3, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW in Andover.

Registration is $30 for adults ages 14+, $10 for youth ages 3-13 and kids 0-2 are free! Fees increase after August 31.

Both online and same-day registration are available. For more information and to register, go to www. alexandrahouse.org/event/hopefest.

Domestic, sexual and dating violence are a serious problem that devastates families and communities worldwide.

In Minnesota, it touches too many families. Every day, 300 Minnesotans suffer at the hands of their abusers and reach out for support and guidance.

CONVENIENT They are DRIVER denied. There EDUCATION simply are

INSTRUCTION AT ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL

not enough dollars or shelter space to help everyone in need. One in three Minnesotan women will experience sexual or domestic violence in her lifetime. About one in 10 adults over the age of 60 have experienced elder abuse or maltreatment.

However, most people think that domestic violence is a private, family matter and choose not to get involved.

Unfortunately, the ripple effects don’t merely stop with the victim. The impact on the lives of family members, friends, co-workers and the community is devastating. There are many victims that suffer in silence due to fear or a lack of resources and support. HopeFest is an excellent way for people of all ages to learn about how we can come together as a community to keep all families safe and work towards a violence-free future.

Event sponsorship opportunities are now available and can be found online at www.alexandra.house.org. You can also contact Tina Bronson at 763-6561363 or tbronson@alexandrahouse.org.

The mission of Alexandra House is to empower victims of domestic and sexual violence and inspire social change, through education, support and

CLASSROOM EDUCATION Registration for classroom driver education is being accepted for fall 2018. Classroom driver education information available on the website.

BEHIND-THE-WHEEL DRIVING INSTRUCTION

Call Michelle 763-568-0038

Six hours of required behind-the-wheel instruction Flexible scheduling State of Minnesota certified instructors

Applications available at www.communityed15.com or call 763-213-1640 for more information.

Community Education, St. Francis Area Schools

Expires 9/30/18

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MELISSA PRIEBE

ANOKA-RAMSEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Anoka-Ramsey Community College Nursing Instructor Debra Mayer, MSN, RN, CNE, was selected to participate this summer in the prestigious Edmond J. Safra Visiting Nurse Faculty Program.

After completing the program offered by the Parkinson’s Foundation, she was also invited to serve on a nursing advisory board for the foundation.

The scholars selected for the program help to prepare the next generation of nurses to care for the growing population of people with Parkinson’s disease. They provide education to more than 20,000 nursing students on an annual basis, helping students learn how they can improve the outcomes for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease from the start.

Mayer plans to conduct her own independent study and incorporate some of the results into simulations at Anoka-Ramsey. While some concepts will be integrated into her teaching right away, she hopes her research will allow Michelle Anderson her to give students a more holistic approach to treating Michelle.Anderson@Results.net Parkinson’s disease.

Check out our Grab ’N Go case filled with breakfast sandwiches, deli sandwiches, wraps, fruit, vegetables, sushi, yogurt parfaits, salads and more!

Valid on cash transactions only, must pay inside St. Francis County Market. Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit.

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Parkinson’s Foundation selects Anoka-Ramsey nursing instructor for prestigious visiting faculty program

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advocacy. Alexandra House provides 24-hour emergency shelter, support services, legal and hospital advocacy to victims of domestic and sexual violence.

We are the only such service provider in Anoka County.

www.kingscountymarket.com 23122 St. Francis Boulevard NW St. Francis 763-753-3334 OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Monday-Saturday 5:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.

Sunday 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.

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SEPTEMBER 2018

27

Pet Corner

DR. AMY MORGAN OAK GROVE ANIMAL HOSPITAL, OWNER

Question How do I know how much to feed my dog or cat?

Answer Pet owners frequently find it easiest to follow feeding guidelines on pet food bags; however, this should be only a starting point. The amount of food any dog or cat needs depends on their exercise level, metabolism, the number of calories in the food and whether or not the pet is still growing. For dogs, it’s helpful to learn how to score the body condition. With your dog sitting or standing squarely, run your hands back and forth over the sides of the chest. If

your dog is at an ideal weight (body condition score of 3,) you will feel a thin layer of fat over the ribs, but you will be able to feel the “washboard” of the ribs using some pressure.

If your dog is too thin (body condition score of 1½ or 2,) you’ll be able to feel the ridges of the ribs easily. If your dog is too heavy (body condition score of 4 or 5,) you won’t be able to feel the ridges of the ribs even with a lot of pressure.

Your dog’s calorie needs may change from season to season, mostly depending on exercise level. And puppies often require a lot more food than you might think. Increase or

FILE PHOTO

Faith Listings Abundant Life Alliance Church 3840 197th Avenue NW Oak Grove • 763-753-0284 www.AbundantLife4U.org

New Life Church 17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW Ramsey • 763-421-0166 www.newlifemn.org

Bethel Community Church 23860 Dewey Street NW Bethel • 763-434-9834 www.bethelschurch.org

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church and Preschool 19001 Jackson Street NE East Bethel • 763-434-6117 www.oursaviourslc.org

Cedar United Methodist Church 17541 Jefferson Street NE Ham Lake • 763-434-7463 www.cedarumc.org Cross of Hope Lutheran Church 5730-179th Lane NW Ramsey • 763-753-2057 www.crossofhope.net Immanuel Church (OPC) 15036 Round Lake Boulevard NW Andover • 763-210-5846 www.immanuelchurchopc.org Living Hope Evangelical Free Church 23038 Rum River Boulevard NW St. Francis • 763-753-1718 www.LivingHopeEFC.org Long Lake Lutheran Church 3921 277th Avenue NW Isanti • 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.org New Life Church - Oak Grove 18975 Lake George Boulevard NW Oak Grove • 763-753-5717 www.newlifeoakgrove.org

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church 207 Whiskey Road NW Isanti • 763-444-4035 www.stelizabeth-isanti.org St. Andrew Lutheran Church 1450 237th Avenue NE East Bethel • 763-434-7146 www.standreweb.org The Bridge Church 6443 Norris Lake Road Nowthen • 763-753-2134 www.sfbridge.org

decrease food amounts based on body condition score for adult dogs. Puppies can usually be allowed to choose how much food they need as they grow as long as their body condition score doesn’t go above 2½ or 3 or cats can be similarly assessed with body condition score, although they usually prefer to eat when they choose to throughout the day or night rather than eating meals. Many indoor cats get too heavy because we, as pet owners, give in to their demand for more food whenever they want it. Diet cat foods help reduce overall daily calorie intake as long as the cat isn’t consuming a greater volume of food. An alternative to switching to diet cat food is to measure how much your cat eats by measuring food into the bowl then subtracting the amount left after 24 hours. If done several times an average daily intake of food is known.

Then reduce the 24-hour total amount of food given by five or ten percent. You likely will be faced with some complaining until your cat learns that more food won’t be in the bowl until the 24-hour period is up. Keep feeling for the ribs and increase daily food allowed if the ribs become easier to feel. There are some medical problems that can cause weight gain or loss, such as intestinal parasites or thyroid problems. Make sure you consult with your veterinarian if you’re unsure how to proceed helping your pet maintain a healthy weight.

The East Bethel Scholarship Program would like to introduce 2018-19 East Bethel Royalty. Little Miss East Bethel Lila Dennis, sponsored by Profile Specialist Little Miss East Bethel Maggie Gay, sponsored by All Ways Drains, East Bethel Princess Ariel Orr, sponsored by Orr-iginal Photography and Miss East Bethel Autumn Schwintek.

PHOTO BY ERICA LEIGH PHOTOGRAPHY.

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