SUN Thisweek Apple Valley and Rosemount by Sun Thisweek

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Apple Valley | Rosemount September 21, 2012 | Volume 33 | Number 30

Irish band delights

Apple Valley man sentenced for fatally shooting friend

tyles ing Senior Lifes tion Highlight A Special Sec : Volunteering focus This month’s

ir ncentrate theive Volunteers come erat op co ho at efforts

energy. to betwoman of constant and talents “Using my giftsty is important to ter my communi . worked me,” said Rutschke retired nurse, joining Rutschke, a care before in home health She spent 10 years area the Red Cross. the five-state retiring, traveling around mobile. Since with the blood that same energy into she has thrownShe works tirelessly at n, is volunteerism. and, like Amundso her church cooperative. active in her out of the house. I love for oth“It gets me people, caring safe. I dealing with they’re sure ers, and makingout there and doing be just need to said. things,” she on several committees, building She works marketin g, She is also including the committees. group that and social a Gals, ge of part of Gramercy for a wide-ranShelf. raises money the local Food I causes, including all work together.so ty, “At a coop, we a farming communi speakers ing. came from been part of first-Friday ty, and have always “I arrange landscaping, cooperatives health, communi entery here is vibrant, Gramercy Park Cooperative book on topics of my life. Everybod stand in front of and govern ourof residents. also work to dinself-care. I and Diane Rutschke funded by the volunteer efforts to get stuff done we have catered Amundson (right) t projects years ago. eager she said. tainment when “I don’t remember Shirl this senior husband two of the many improvemen said. ways. selves,” agrees. For who lost her about five just one ners,” she in different and Amundson feeling needed for it. It was do it inspires me.” at home, “People volunteer as visible it’s all about volunteering years said, ‘Can you others, and ing citizen, they aren’t retirement efforts Someone her your ago. .” to Maybe volunteer years In addition and spending and helping others. hours helpthey are still how it happened this?’ That is believes that when you Amundson spends many Commun ity vocal, but more connecting with a need for time or goods.” Amundson help, volthe Eagan Rutschke shares “There’s always Some people want serves as a available to ing out at Neighbor Diane on volunmake yourself ities find you. She most often for greeting philosophy people to volunteer. their missing is a Center. Amundso n’s d makes herresponsible alone. I feel like is what God unteer opportun to do things t room host people attending events teerism. The 66-year-ol needs to get to be left volunteering “Being available for what ing. It’s importan out. I think and serving Amundson. self available known within the way of volunteer me a reason to get at the center. us for,” said gives g,” and keep involved. done, and is ty as a made for myself. It “I stay busy and do somethin way of taking Gramercy Park communi up, get dressedn. “It’s important for That’s one important Amundson, said Amundso aging to get involved care of yourself,” said being with those who are people. I like with other

BY EMILY HEDGES WRITER CONTRIBUTING n and Diane can Shirl Amundso volunteer work Rutschke believeLike so many of the Park begin at home. Gramercy of two donate residents in Eagan, the improving Cooperative to and effort a their time ings and building their surroundbe proud of. to ty said communi cooperative,” , and “We’re a “We try to cooperate living here Amundson. make to we all do things enjoyable. That’s my at the Gramercyjob,” she said. main volunteerworks with the comon Amundson sale and serves munity rummage e to find enterthe buildthe social committe for speakers tainment and

Mature Lifestyles Included in this issue

Opinion

Partners For Success works Partners For Success shows that getting parents and families involved in a child’s learning leads to gains in the classroom. Page 4A

thisweekend

Photo by Dave Andrews

The Rosemount High School marching band held its annual festival Saturday, Sept. 15, under the lights at Irish Stadium. The event attracted some of the top bands from across the state to compete in three classes. The Rosemount band performed last during the event in an exhibition performance that is not part of the official competition. More photos from the event are at SunThisweek.com.

Dakota County could be bellwether Lawmakers look to the suburbs to determine control of Legislature by T.W. Budig Sun Thisweek

Middle Ages come to life Caponi Art Park in Eagan is offering guests a break from life in the 21st century when it hosts the Medieval Fair on Sept. 30. Page 12A

Online Do you have a question for the candidates in any of the city or state races? Send it to tad.johnson@ ecm-inc.com. Look for photos from One Book, One Rosemount events online. Follow Sun Thisweek on Facebook to receive updates on stories at www.Facebook.com/ SunThisweek.

Senate District 57

Democratic leaders look to the suburbs for critical seats they need to take back the Republican-controlled Legislature. Currently, Republicans grip the Senate by Pat Hall, holding 37 seats against Republican the Democrats’ 29. One seat that is vacant — held by former Sen. John Harrington, DFL-St. Paul, who is resigning to assume law enforcement duties with the Met Council — is a safe seat for Democrats. Democrats would need to pick up four seats to recapture the Senate. Republicans wrested control of the Senate from Democrats two years ago, breaking a Democratic lock going back almost 40 years. “I feel pretty good about it — yeah,” Senate Minority Leader Tom Bakk, DFL-Cook, said of winning back the Senate. Though speaking of the economy and education as key issues, voters “can feel” an aura of mismanagement radiating from the Republican Senate Caucus, Bakk argued. He spoke of a “cascade of missteps,” pointing to a recent administrative law judge panel finding that 11 Republican senators and former House Speaker Steve Sviggum broke

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Roberta Anna Wills, Gibbons, DFL Republican

state campaign law by distributing taxpayer-paid literature containing a political fundraising link. The senators, including former Sen. Chris Gerlach of Apple Valley, and Sviggum, who has insisted he’s the one to blame, were given small fines. The public may not know or understand the details about the ruling or the extramarital affair with a Senate staffer that drove Sen. Amy Koch, R-Buffalo, to resign as Senate majority leader, but they sense things have gone awry, Bakk argued. “I am confident we’re going to pick up seats in the suburbs,” said House Minority Leader Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis. House Republicans currently hold 72 seats, House Democrats 61 seats, with one open-seat. Democrats would need to win six seats to regain control. Thissen argues that looking at the

Jeff Wilfahrt, DFL

current head count is misleading. With lawmaker retirements and redistricting both House caucuses are essentially starting in the mid-50s and the battle is really over the remaining 24 seats, he explained. Fifteen seats are open. Thissen is “cautiously optimistic” House Democrats will regain control. He points to House races in Dakota County as “ground zero” in the suburban political fray, adding House Democrats look for success in Edina and in Eden Prairie, too. This election will not be a “wave” style election as seen in 2006, 2008 and 2010, Thissen argues. Thissen views the proposed samesex marriage ban constitutional amendment as one factor that could bring young voters to the polls, which could help Democrats, he said. A youth surge could play a role See election, 7A

Wish comes true for Apple Valley girl

Injured EMT starts Rosemount vendor fair in downtown mall Sun Thisweek

Opinion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4A

Greg Clausen, Tara Mack, DFL Republican

Boutique blossoms from career change by Tad Johnson

Index

House District 57A House District 57B

An Apple Valley man was sentenced Sept. 13 to 90 days in jail and 10 years probation for fa- Derrick Dahl tally shooting a friend with a gun he thought was unloaded. Derrick Wallace Dahl, 23, accidentally shot 22-year-old Benjamin Allen Hanson in the head on July 23, 2011, at a home on East Crystal Lake Road in Burnsville. Wallace, Dahl and a third man who lives at the home were handling firearms kept there when Dahl pointed a .45-caliber handgun at Hanson and fired. He admitted to police he’d pulled the trigger but said he didn’t know the gun had been reloaded after being emptied. Dahl told police it was the first time he’d handled a gun, the criminal complaint said. “He said that all three of them had earlier been pointing the empty guns at each other, just playing around,” the criminal complaint said. Dahl, who pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter in May, was originally charged with second-degree manslaughter, reckless discharge of a firearm in a municipality, intentionally pointing a gun at another and recklessly handling a gun. It was expected Dahl would avoid prison time under his plea agreement with the Dakota County attorney’s office. Sentencing guidelines called for 48 months prison, but the prosecution agreed to stay the prison term, County Attorney James Backstrom said at the time of the plea agreement. “I agreed to the downward departure because this was an unintentional act of negligence,” Backstrom said. “It think it’s reflective of the significant danger associated with mishandling firearms. But it was not an intentional act on Mr. Dahl’s part.” —Andrew Miller

Debbie Hanson figured she would work in the medical field for all of her career. Three years ago, when a patient who was high on drugs attacked the Fairview Ridges Hospital emergency medical technician of 22 years, her plans changed. After a torn rotator cuff and injured knee forced her on a long disability leave, Hanson then learned she could no longer be an EMT because doctors told her she shouldn’t lift anything over 20 pounds. Since a desk job in the medical field didn’t appeal to her, Hanson became an Avon sales consultant and now, with a little help from her friends, she has opened Vendors Unique Boutique in the old Rosemount Mall on South Robert Trail. Hanson’s idea to bring a variety of vendors into the building for weekend sales events came to her about five months ago when she

walked into the mall after having coffee at Morning Glory’s Bakery across the street. She saw the available space and design of the building with its two floors of walkways and open areas as an opportunity to host the boutique through Christmas. The fair will include vendors such as Avon, Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, 31 Party Bags, antiques, clothing, home furnishings, crafts, food and much more. Hanson, a Farmington resident formerly from Rosemount, said she had 20 different businesses participating the first weekend. While the fair will be open the next two weekends in September, it will have a grand opening celebration Oct. 6 and 7 when the musical duo of Apple Valley High School teacher Travis Laurent and twin brother Kalin will perform. Food See boutique, 7A

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Four-year-old Avery Saari, left, visits with her big sister Brenna at a send-off party held Tuesday at Old Chicago in Apple Valley for the Saari family’s upcoming trip to Disney World. Avery was born with congenital CMV and as a result has epilepsy, cerebral palsy, is non-verbal and is fed through a tube; she was selected by Make A Wish of Minnesota to receive her wish of going to Disney World and meeting Belle, her favorite princess. The Apple Valley family – including dad, Matt, and mom, Jodi – leaves for Disney World on Sept. 28. More about Avery’s story and CMV is at www.averysjourney.com.

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

Marching band festival attracts 6,300-plus In what has been called the largest event of any kind ever held at Rosemount High School, the 23rd annual Rosemount Marching Band Festival on Saturday night handed out three class champions awards and raised some

money for the school’s band programs. “It was uber-super successful,” band director Steve Olsen wrote in an email. “As band directors, we are so proud, happy and extremely pleased with all aspects of the entire day!

This was our finest festival – ever! Our students and parents showed everyone in attendance the very best of Rosemount!” Olsen reported that more than 4,100 entered the gates for the show that had more than 2,200 stu-

dent participants. Many of the $43,000plus worth of silent auction items were sold to the highest bidders and the concession stand sold a record amount of items. The overall winners were: Class AAA - Eden

Prairie, Class AA - Rochester Lourdes and Class A - Winona Cotter. Eastview places fourth in Class AAA, while Rosemount and Farmington performed in non-competition exhibition. “All of the band direc-

tors and staff from visiting schools were blown away with the friendliness and helpfulness of all parents and students they encountered,” Olsen said.

Photos by Dave Andrews

The Rosemount High School marching band played during its home festival Saturday, Sept. 15, at Irish Stadium. The event was attended by more than 4,100 people and had 2,200-plus participants.

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Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

Teach them now, or pay later Workshop to focus on investment in early childhood education by Tad Johnson Sun Thisweek

hood education to construction of a sports stadium as two different kinds of economic development tools. Early childhood education returns $16 for every dollar invested, Rolnick and Grunewald

The co-author of the often-cited report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis that found investments Rob in early childhood Grunewald education have a high public dollar rate of return will share found. his research with Dakota “Children who arrive County professionals who prepared to succeed in school are more likely to work with children. Rob Grunewald, the Re- graduate from high school serve Bank’s associate econ- and be a productive memomist who has made similar ber of society,” Grunewald presentations throughout said. the country, is the keynote Those who are unprespeaker of the New Ameri- pared tend to stay behind can Services Collaborative their peers and earn less session “Early Childhood money in their careers. They Education: The Key to Suc- are also more likely to comcess for New Americans” mit crimes and need social from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. assistance. Friday, Sept. 28, at Dakota Grunewald said the early County Technical College. investment means schools About 50 people have spend less as the child ages signed up to attend the ses- and in other parts of govsion, which is free and open ernment, particularly the to educators, faith leaders, criminal justice system. social services and early “We were surprised to see the results,” Grunewald childhood providers. Grunewald, a Minneap- said. So were others. olis resident, will talk about Rolnick and Grunewald the results of the 2003 re- captured the attention of port that he co-authored business leaders across the with former research direc- nation and in Minnesota. tor at the Reserve Bank, Art So much so that a group of Rolnick, that compared in- Minnesota CEOs decided vestments with early child- to create the Minnesota

Early Learning Foundation after Grunewald and Rolnick wrote a follow-up report outlining how to invest in early learning. The foundation, comprised of CEOs of some of the state’s largest companies (Cargill, Best Buy, General Mills) funded the 2008-11 early childhood education pilot program in St. Paul’s Frogtown neighborhood. Through the program, $6 million in scholarships were provided to low-income families to enroll in an approved two-year early childhood education program. Grunewald said many of the students were new Americans who spoke English in addition to their native language. Many of them were Hmong and African Americans. Program results have been promising, according to Grunewald. He said parents were more engaged in their child’s learning and the program was a catalyst to increase the number of high-quality early childhood education openings in the area. Students showed statistically significant improvements in literacy, math, social skills and attention, according to the study. Could such an investment in early childhood education happen in Dakota County? Monica Jensen, commu-

nity relations director of the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and member of the county’s New American Services Collaborative, says the program isn’t intended to create such a program. “Our goal is to connect people and resources,” Jensen said. The collaborative has been doing just that for the past several years offering resource fairs and speaker events like the Sept. 28 workshop. Past topics have been crime prevention, domestic violence prevention and continuing education. Friday’s workshop will include a panel discussion led by the state director of Head Start, Mary Vanderwert. The foundation’s full report on its scholarship program is at www.pasrmn. org/MELF/Scholarship_Pilot_Research. Register for the workshop by contacting Jensen at (651) 438-4440 or monica.jensen@co.dakota. mn.us.

For most Apple Valley homeowners, city tax bill will dip in 2013 The Apple Valley City Council on Sept. 11 adopted its preliminary 2013 budget and levy, which should result in the city portion of property taxes decreasing slightly for most homes. According to city finance staff, more than 90 percent of homes in Apple Valley will see a reduction in city taxes paid for 2013. In a budget presentation to the City Council, finance staff noted that city property taxes are expected to fall 1.6 percent, from $866 to $852, for the median value home in Apple Valley ($185,800) which experienced a typical property value decline of 6 percent. The preliminary budget/levy approved by the council last week estab-

Tad Johnson can be reached at tad.johnson@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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lishes the maximum levy for 2013. Between now and the December adoption of the final budget, the council can only reduce the levy amount. The City Council has scheduled its public budget meeting (formerly called the Truth in Taxation hearing) for Dec. 13 at the Apple Valley Municipal Center. That same night the council is also slated to vote on adoption of the final 2012 budget and levy. Dakota County is required to send out property-specific tax notices in mid-November. Information about the budget and tax levy is available on the city’s website, www.cityofapplevalley.org. —Andrew Miller

FOR MINNESOTA TRAVEL INFORMATION, CALL 1-888-TOURISM (1-888-868-7476)

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Opinion

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

360 Communities partners with Families for School Success by Lisa Lusk Special to Sun Thisweek

Reading proficiency is widely accepted as a major predictor of future school success. According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, students who do not read proficiently by third grade are four times more likely to leave high school without a diploma than proficient readers. And that leads to a whole host of challenges for not only the student, but for the community as a whole. This is why 360 Communities Partners For Success promotes literacy and parental involvement in students’ education from kindergarten through high school graduation. Partners For Success has family support workers in 27 schools in seven school districts in Dakota County working to remove barriers to school success for at-risk youth. A large portion of the work involves engaging families in their home and working with parents to provide tools to better equip them as a partner in their child’s education. In the 2011-2012 school year Partners For Success family support workers sat

Guest Columnist

Lisa Lusk

down with families and teachers to create 384 family learning plans to help engage parents and keep students on track to reach their potential. Structure and expectations at home can make all the difference between a student who struggles and one who succeeds. After all, according to the Michigan Department of Education, children spend 70 percent of their waking hours at home during the school year, including weekends and holidays. Helping students to learn and achieve their academic potential cannot be the sole responsibility of schools; parental involvement and engagement with their child’s academics at home is a critical part of a child’s success in school. According to Dr. Jeremy D. Finn of the

University at Buffalo’s Graduate School of Education, there are three kinds of parental involvement at home that are consistently associated with higher student achievement: • Actively organizing and monitoring a child’s time. • Helping with homework. • Discussing school matters. Partners For Success family support workers understand the important role of family life in a student’s success. They also understand the other needs a family may have and can tap a wide network of 360 Communities resources to surround a family with support. If a child is coming to school hungry, the family support worker can refer the family to one of five 360 Communities food shelves in Dakota County. If there is a safety issue at home, 360 Communities has two Lewis House domestic violence shelters. Family support workers are also very knowledgeable of other resources within the community and can assist families with accessing what they need by the relationships 360 Communities has with other organizations.

This partnership between school, homes and family support worker has demonstrated success. A 2011 study of the Partners For Success program conducted by the University of Minnesota Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement found that 88 percent of students in the evaluation met, exceeded or made progress toward their reading goals, some by more than 200 percent. The study also found parents appreciated the greater sense of connection they developed with their schools through the family support workers. A bright future for all students is achievable with programs like Partners For Success, with dedicated educators and engaged families and communities. Discover more about 360 Communities Partners For Success by visiting 360Communities.org. Lisa Lusk is 360 Communities Partners For Success supervisor. 360 Communities’ mission is to provide hope and support to people by engaging communities to prevent violence, ensure school success and promote long-term self-sufficiency. Columns reflect the opinion of the author.

Learning from a visit to Normandy’s D-Day beaches on Sept. 11 It was quiet on the beautiful beach, except for the strong wind and the large waves. No children building sand castles. No teenagers flirting. No families having picnics. But hundreds of people were there. We were there on Omaha Beach, Normandy, one of the beaches where landings took place on June 6, 1944, “D-Day.” We were there, as someone noted, with “respect, remembrance and reverence.” It happened that my wife and I were there on Sept. 11. We arrived just as Hans Hooker, superintendent of the Normandy American Cemetery, was about to read a brief proclamation from President Barack Obama. The mixture of sadness, gratitude and respect we felt are impossible to convey for heroes of the 1940s, and for those of our generation. No movie I’ve seen, no book I’ve read prepared me for the awesome experience on the Normandy beaches that we visited. We started in the small town of Arromanches, while British and American creativity

Sun Thisweek Columnist

Joe Nathan

and innovation produced a floating harbor, wharf, and causeway allowing thousands of tons of material to be unloaded and brought to shore. It was the first time anything this large had been created, anywhere in the world. Several signs in shops recognized that people from all over the world, including the Allied countries, come to visit. “Welcome to our liberators,” the signs proclaimed. We also visited Omaha Beach where thousands of Americans gave their lives to help preserve our freedom. There are no shops there. There’s “just” a huge Ameri-

can cemetery with more than 9,000 graves, and an extremely well-done museum. Together, they produce memories and time for us to reflect. One soldier, a private Harry Parley, recalled: “As our boat touched the sand and the ramp went down, I became a visitor to hell.” You look up at the cliffs, you walk by the guns that boomed that day, and it’s astonishing. The courage of these soldiers is overwhelming. Reading books about D-Day, it’s clear that Supreme Allied Commander Dwight Eisenhower was a genius at keeping together a constantly contentious coalition. He had to deal with huge egos of people like Charles DeGaulle, George Patton, Bernard Montgomery and others. He had to reconcile the sometimes conflicting advice and demands of Winston Churchill, Franklin Roosevelt and others. Despite enormous losses, the Allies succeeded. Together, they overcame great evil. So one of the lessons was a reminder

about what can be accomplished when people work together. But there’s much, much more. There are thousands of stories of heroism from young people, far from home and family. A film at the Omaha Beach Museum referred to those who did not come home, and ended this way: “They gave their futures to insure ours. In the final analysis, nothing could be more profound.” Someone asked if I enjoyed the day. No. But as another visitor explained: “It was stirring.” I also found and find myself asking: “What am I doing to honor their memory, and to make the best possible use of the gifts of life, liberty and freedom that they helped secure?” Joe Nathan, formerly a public school teacher and administrator, directs the Center for School Change. Reactions welcome at joe@ centerforschoolchange.org. Columns reflect the opinion of the author.

Letters Re-elect Schouweiler To the editor: Dakota County has done well by keeping taxes low and budgets maintained. This is why it is important to keep the status quo by reelecting Nancy Schouweiler as county commissioner. I grew up in Inver Grove Heights and I know her opponent Bill Klein is a wellknown career politician and 20 year Inver Grove City Council member who ran for numerous offices including the state senate and mayor of Inver Grove Heights so he is not fresh or new as his sign’s state. I am concerned for my dad was the former veterans director for Dakota County and Veterans Services could be put under real budget restraints as opportunists like Klein might try to position themselves by slashing budgets for partisan career advancement. As for Schouweiler, my dad always relied on her support to help make sure Veterans Services was wellfunded and considered Schouweiler her favorite. Finally, I should state that this is also a non-partisan election where focus should be on county issues and nothing else. Therefore,

please vote for Schouweiler her constituents and repto keep Dakota County resent Rosemount, Apple Valley and Coates very efgreat. fectively. Please join me in supWilliam Cory porting Anna Wills for state Labovitch representative in House South St. Paul District 57B.

Supports Anna Wills for House

To the editor: As a former Rosemount City Council member and currently serving as a Port Authority member for 12 years in Rosemount, I have come to appreciate legislators who will roll up their sleeves and understand in detail the issues facing local government. We deal with things that don’t fit neatly into political party ideology, but are of deep importance to the people in our communities, public safety, streets, parks, residential, commercial and industrial development along with other important issues. As I have got to know Anna Wills, it is clear to me that she understands the importance of local issues and has the type of personality to work effectively with municipal leaders to ensure the best interest of our communities are well represented in St. Paul. She will ask good questions, be engaged, listen to

Mary Riley Rosemount

Camp Invention a success To the editor: I would like to thank School District 196 and Thomas Lake and Red Pine elementary schools for hosting the Camp Invention program this summer. Camp Invention director Trisha Miller and talented local teaching camp staff helped to prepare local youths for future success through practical application of the 21st century learning skills such as teamwork, creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving. One-hundred ninetyeight of the district’s elementary students joined over 77,000 students nationwide in tackling exciting hands-on STEM challenges at the Camp Invention program. The science, technology, engineering, and math concepts that they learned were used to solve a series

Photo Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rick Orndorf Sports Editors . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Shaughnessy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andy Rogers Sales Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Jetchick Office Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ellen Reierson

15322 Galaxie Ave., Suite 219, Apple Valley, MN 55124 952-894-1111 fax: 952-846-2010 www.SunThisweek.com | Office Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friday

of real-world problems that required innovative solutions. I especially want to thank the adult and youth staff and the students for the exceptional creativity and inventiveness that they displayed throughout the week. Susan Z. Clarke Regional consultant Camp Invention

for

Gibbons knows the ramifications of budget cuts To the editor: Do you think that a member of the Minnesota House who votes along either party’s lines 89 percent of the time truly represents their district? That is what Tara Mack has done. In doing so she has made Apple Valley, Dakota County and Minnesota less competitive. Mack voted to reduce mass transit funding, allowing roads to grow more congested. Business need to transport their goods. They

will not locate headquarters or warehouses where a their products are stuck in traffic. Mack supported money for bus rapid transit instead of light rail on Cedar Avenue. Now it appears the western suburbs may have light rail service. That means Apple Valley and Dakota County, having spent a huge amount of money and seen many local businesses hurt by construction, could have to compete with suburbs with light rail. Minnesota’s schools used to be rated at the top. I wish Mack understood the importance of public education. Carrie Lucking, executive director of the Alliance for a Better Minnesota said: “Not only did Rep. Mack help shut down our state and eliminate the Market Value Homestead Credit, but she voted to cut Apple Valley and Burnsville area schools by more than $2.5 million to give special tax breaks to big corporations.” Mack voted to cut money for higher education. Our university system

has been our entrepreneurial incubator and provided a well-educated workforce. Mack voted to cut funding for mental health services and reduce services for the disabled, poor, and elderly. This will cost Minnesotans more because people will wind up seeking care in emergency room. Hospitals will pass costs on those who can pay. Seniors will be forced into nursing homes because less costly services that allow them to remain in their own homes are gone. At a time when our state has a growing elderly population this is fiscally irresponsible. We have a choice in November. Vote for Roberta Gibbons. She will work to grow our state and local economy by funding needed infrastructure and education. Gibbons also understands some budget cuts wind up costing us more in the long run. Nika Davies Apple Valley

Letters to the editor policy Sun Thisweek welcomes letters to the editor. Submitted letters must be no more than 350 words. All letters must have the author’s phone number and address for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. Letters reflect the opinion of the author only. Sun Thisweek reserves the right to edit all letters. Submission of a letter does not guarantee publication.

Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

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Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

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PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROCEEDINGS FOR VACATION OF PUBLIC GROUNDS IN THE CITY OF APPLE VALLEY TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Municipal Center of the City of Apple Valley, Dakota County, Minnesota, will meet at the City Hall, 7100 147th Street W., at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as possible, on Thursday, October 11, 2012, to consider the matter of vacation of the following described public grounds in the City of Apple Valley, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 412.851: All drainage and utility easements dedicated in THE LEGACY OF APPLE VALLEY NORTH, according to the recorded plat thereof, Dakota County, Minnesota, which lie within Blocks, 2, 3, 7 and 8 of said plat; and That part of Fortino Street lying between the southerly extensions of the west and east lines of Block 7 to the north line of Block 8, all in THE LEGACY OF APPLE VALLEY NORTH, according to the recorded plat thereof, Dakota County, Minnesota; and That part of Fontana Trail lying between the easterly extensions of the north and south lines of Block 2 to the west line of Block 3, all in THE LEGACY OF APPLE VALLEY NORTH, according to the recorded plat thereof, Dakota County, Minnesota. Such persons as desire to be heard with reference to the proposal will be heard at this meeting. DATED this 11th day of September, 2012. /s/ Pamela J. Gackstetter Pamela J. Gackstetter, City Clerk 3152108 9/21-9/28/12

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vendors will offer carnivalstyle delights that weekend, too. The mall currently houses The Guitar Shop and Stokes for Folks Therapeutic Massage and was quite a hub of commerce in its early years. “My goal is to take over the former dance studio election, from 1A in suburban House races where Republican lawmakers, in supporting the marriage amendment, voted against the grain of the district, he argued. Thissen views the political repercussions from a sex scandal involving Duluth DFL lawmaker Rep. Kerry Gauthier as limited to that district. DFL State Party Chairman Ken Martin of Eagan is upbeat about a Democratic legislative revival and looks to the suburbs helping bridge the gap. “We have a number of legislative targets in the suburbs,” Martin said. Martin cites Senate District 49 in Edina as a district in which Democrats can win all three seats. If he had to bet on a race, he’d bet on former Republican Rep. Ron Erhardt of Edina, now running as a Democrat, to win House District 49A. “Yes, I am that certain about that race,” Martin said. Bakk looks to DFL Senate candidate Greg Clausen in Senate District 57 in Dakota County as a possible Senate Democratic win. “We have an awfully good candidate down there,” he said. “Bellwether” races are found in Dakota County, Martin explained, with former DFL state senator Jim Carlson, state representa-

space and office next to it,” Hanson said. “I want to keep building and building it.” The fair is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays through Christmas.

Free online magazines at the library

Dakota County Library is the first in the metro to offer electronic magazines starting Sept. 19. Zinio for Libraries is a new service that provides a quick and easy way to read, interact with and explore Tad Johnson can be reached popular magazines just by at tad.johnson@ecm-inc. using a Dakota County licom or facebook.com/sun- brary card. Magazines can be viewed on a home computer thisweek. or any other Internet-en-

abled device. Just download the Zinio app through a web browser. More than one person can view a magazine at a time so there is never a wait for a magazine to be returned to the library. To locate a magazine, click on the Zinio button on the library’s website and begin browsing. For more information, visit www. dakotacounty.us/library.

tives Sandra Masin and Will Morgan, all seeking to regain seats lost last election. “I think we have a good chance at all three,” Martin said. Martin views the proposed amendments on the ballot, Photo ID and the marriage ban, less about bringing out more voters than fired-up voters more likely to vote Democratic down the ticket. Republicans see things differently. Senate Majority Leader David Senjem, R-Rochester, indicated Senate Republicans are holding strong. “We’re getting frankly very good vibes (from voters),” he said. Senjem expressed confidence Senate Republicans would not only keep the majority but even pick up seats. “I don’t know who we’re going to lose,” Senjem said. “I’m confident we’ll be OK.” Polling has shown that jobs and the economy are the leading concerns of voters, Senjem explained. He said the state economy is improving, and Senate Republicans are going to take some credit for the improvements seen and those

yet to come. Senjem views the presidential race as “absolutely” impacting legislative races. It’s critical that Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney articulate his plans for improving the nation’s economy, Senjem explained. As for the Koch scandal, Senate Republican candidates say they’re not hearing about that at the front door, Senjem said. House Speaker Kurt Zellers, R-Maple Grove, said it’s too early to have a strong sense of how House Republicans will fare this election. “I feel confident we will hold the majority at the current number of seats,” Zellers said. There’s a “good chance” of House Republicans picking up seats, he explained. House Republican can-

didates include an impressive group of women candidates, Zellers said. Voters are most concerned about jobs and the economy, he said. “There’s nothing else that touches it,” Zellers said. The No. 2 issue for voters is one state lawmakers have no control over, he explained. That’s the national debt, he said. Like Bakk, Senjem, and Thissen, Zellers does not expect a “wave” style election in November. “It will be a one-on-one candidate year,” he said. Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Pat Shortridge did not respond to an interview request. T.W. Budig can be reached at tim.budig@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

Fire destroys haunted house, but show will go on A weekend fire destroyed one of the haunted houses at the annual Frightmares attraction at Buck Hill in Burnsville. “The fire destroyed the Bellharm-Lovejoy Asylum, one of four houses and many other attractions at Frightmares at Buck Hill. No one was injured in the fire,” said a statement from ski, snowboarding and snow-tubing venue, which features a variety of other seasonal attractions. According to FOX 9 News, Burnsville Fire Chief B.J. Jungmann said the fire broke out at about 1 a.m. Sunday inside a large tent with temporary walls. No one was inside at the time. Crews from Lakeville helped extinguish the flames, and investigators spent several hours looking for a cause, FOX 9 reported.

Service news Pfc. Kyle J. Bruns, 22, graduated from Marine Corps recruit training in San Diego on Aug. 31. Bruns is a graduate of Rosemount High School. Pvt. Damian F. Calamese, 21, graduated from Marine Corps recruit training in San Diego on Aug. 24. Calamese is a 2010 graduate of Rosemount High School. Pvt. Tyler J. Merritt, 19, graduated from Marine Corps recruit training in San Diego on Aug. 24. Merritt is a 2012 graduate of Rosemount High School.

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Photo by Rick Orndorf

Only rubble was left after a haunted house at Buck Hill’s Frightmares attraction burned down last weekend. Despite the fire, Frightmares will open as planned on Oct. 5. Buck Hill General Manager Don McClure said in the statement that Frightmares at Buck Hill remains on schedule to open its 13day run on Oct. 5. It’s the attraction’s fourth season. “Frightmares at Buck Hill’s other primary attractions — Orchard Manor Dead and Breakfast, The

Fright Factory, and the Haunted Hallow — as well as the regular features such as live musical entertainment and Kevin Hall’s Magic Show, will open and entertain guests as scheduled,” the statement said. “As soon as the scene of the fire is cleared, a new attraction will be put in its place.”

Children’s clothing, equipment sale The Minnesota Valley Mothers of Multiples will hold its Kids’ Used Clothing & Equipment Sale from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Eagan Community Center, 1501

Central Parkway, Eagan. The entrance fee will be $2. Tickets will go on sale at 10 a.m. Cash or checks only. More information is at www.mvmom.org.

McGruff kits available Dakota Electric Association has provided local law enforcement agencies throughout Dakota County with McGruff identification kits. Police officers will distribute the kits to classrooms if a teacher makes a request. Any teacher in-

terested in having kits distributed to their class will need to contact their local law enforcement agency quickly, as the supply is limited. Anyone with questions about the program may call Denise Rotty at (651) 4636353.

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September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

News Briefs Class of ’72 reunion at RHS The Rosemount High School Class of 1972 will celebrate its 40th reunion Sept. 21-22 in Rosemount. Alumni will attend the homecoming game on Friday evening, have a school tour at 11 a.m. on Saturday, and meet at the Fireside Restaurant for dinner starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, contact Pam (Hanson) Clausen at (719) 633-1222 or p_clausen@hotmail.com.

Parks and rec programs Register for the following Rosemount Parks and Recreation program online at www.ci.rosemount.mn.us, at the parks and recreation office, or call (651) 322-6000. • Science Explorers, ages 3-1/2 to 6, Thursdays, Oct. 4 through Oct. 25 (skip Oct. 18), room 204, Rosemount Community Center. Learn about fall and how nature responds to the changes happening through migration, hibernation and adaptation. Cost is $34. • Radical Racers, grades two through six, 9:30 to 11:30

a.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, room 204, Rosemount Community Center. Build a Radical Racer while investigating force, motion, transfer of energy and more. Then compete to find out which cars are the fastest and discover which design makes a better racer. Cost is $19. • Fun with Duct Tape and Clay, ages 5 to 11, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, room 204, Rosemount Community Center. Create “angry ducts” and make a duct tape bag and luggage tags. Make a plaque, holiday ornaments, and sculpt a bear out of clay. Bring a bag lunch, beverage and snack. Cost is $63.

the Valley Lutheran Church, 12960 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley. Pizza and pop will be provided. Registration is required. For more information, or to register, contact NAMI at (651) 645-2948.

Metro Dining Cards for sale The Apple Valley Seniors annual Metro Dining Club sale will run through Nov. 9. The cards are sold from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at Hayes Community and Senior Center, 14601 Hayes Road, Apple Valley. Cost is $22.

Progression ‘Marathon,’ course for teens animal blessing The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota will hold a free, six-session Progression course designed to empower young people to take charge of their lives and deal with the issues they are facing in a healthy and effective way. The course helps teens understand how to maintain good mental health; how to recognize signs of stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder; how to help friends, siblings and parents understand what they are going through and different types of treatment options. It will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 11 to Nov. 8, at Shepherd of

The St. Joseph Catholic Church Marathon & Blessing of the Animals will be Saturday, Oct. 6, in Rosemount. Starting at 11 a.m., deacons from around the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis will bless animals in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. People may bring their pets – dogs, cats, lizards, gerbils or birds – to be blessed. A contest will award a $50 prize to the best dressed pet in baby attire. This is the first “marathon” event open to the school’s students, faith formation students and adults of the parish. More information is at www.stjosephcommunity. org.

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Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

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Age 88 of Eagan passed away September 11, 2012. Preceded in death by his siblings: Earl Jr., Inez, and Florence. Survived by his wife, Karen; sons: Mark (Tami), Paul (Julie), Loren (VaNita), and Chris (Shannon); grandchildren: Luke, Cory, Lee, Seth, Dale, Erin, Anna, Samantha, and Shane; also survived by other loving family and friends. Funeral Service, 10:30am Saturday, September 15, 2012 at River Hills United Methodist Church (11100 River Hills Dr) Burnsville. Visitation from 5-8pm Friday, Sept 14, at White Funeral Home (12804 Nicollet Ave) Burnsville and one hour prior to the service at church. Gardner was born and raised in East Chain, MN. He graduated from East Chain High School and the University of Minnesota. Gardner served his country in WWII. He worked for Northwest Airlines where he met his of 52 years, Karen. Along with two other employees, he was the original IT department at Northwest converting their payroll to the computer. He also worked for Control Data and Donovan Companies in St. Paul. After retiring, he purchased a farm near Lonsdale and raised sheep for many years and enjoyed vegetable gardening Gradner was active in 4-H as a youth in Martin County, raising sheep and as an adult leader in Dakota county. He initiated and orienteering project in the county. He also served on the State 4-H Advisory Committee. He was a member of the Richfield Men’s Garden Club at one time and won many awards with his flowers. His other interest was woodworking. He built many pieces of furniture for the family, mainly using black walnut. He was the soccer commissioner for the Eagan Athletic Assoc. for several years. Gardner was also active in church serving on various committees and as a greeter on Sunday mornings. His trip to Israel with his son Mark’s church group and his grandson Luke was a highlight of his many travels. Gardner’s family meant a great deal to him. He always took an interest in their activities, careers and achievements. He chose the songs in 2008 for his grandchildren to sing at his funeral. White Funeral Home Burnsville 952 894 5080

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Anthony J. Krejce Beloved Father, Grandfather & Great Grandfather. Age 76. Lifelong Lakeville resident. Passed away unexpectedly Sept 13, 2012. Preceded in death by wife Gerri and son Dan. Survived by children Ken, JoAnn (Harold) Puri, Pam (Jim) Hobson, and Toni (Mike) Zitek; 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Funeral Mass Friday, Sept. 21, 11:30AM at All Saints Catholic Church, 19795 Holyoke Ave, Lakeville. Reviewal one hour prior to service at church. Memorials preferred to the church. Arr w/ Twin Cities Cremation 651-645-1233

Please join our family as we celebrate these 80 years of our Mom Marcy Rotty Saturday, September 29 2-5 pm Celt’s of Farmington 200 3rd St., Farmington “And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” - Abraham Lincoln No gifts please.

A benefit concert has been planned to help defray medical expenses for the George and Lynn Ostroushko family of Apple Valley. In April, Lynn Ostroushko suffered a massive seizure and underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor. “She’s improving, but she’s having trouble speaking because she had a stroke during the surgery,” said George Ostroushko, who works as a postal carrier. “We both have insurance, but to combat the rest of the tumor, they suggested chemo, and our co-pay is going to be in the thousands,” he said. The benefit concert will feature the music of George’s brother, Peter Ostroushko, a violinist and mandolinist who won an Emmy award for his soundtrack to the PBS series “Minnesota: A History of the Land.” Peter Ostroushko’s music also was used in the Ken Burns documentaries “Lewis & Clark” and “Mark Twain,” and his mandolin playing can be heard on the Bob Dylan album “Blood on the Tracks.” The concert starts at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at The

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Emmy-winning musician Peter Ostroushko will perform at a Sept. 28 benefit concert for his sister-in-law, Lynn Ostroushko of Apple Valley, who in April suffered a massive seizure and underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor. Church of St. Joan of Arc, 4537 Third Ave. S., Minneapolis. Tickets are $25 and are available at Vitalculture. com. In the wake of her surgery last April, Lynn Os-

troushko remained in the hospital for a month and a half. “She basically had to relearn everything – how to Andrew Miller can be reached swallow, how to walk, how at andrew.miller@ecm-inc.com to talk,” said her husband. or facebook.com/sunthisweek. She’s been homebound

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To submit an announcement Forms for birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary and obituaries announcements are available at our office and online at www.thisweeklive.com (click on “Announcements” and then “Send Announcement”). Completed forms may be e-mailed to class. thisweek@ecm-inc.com or mailed to Sun Thisweek, 15322 Galaxie Ave., Suite 219, Apple Valley, MN 55124. If you are submitting a photograph along with your announcement, please only submit photographs for which you have the right to permit Sun Thisweek to use and publish. Deadline for announcements is 4 p.m. Tuesday. A fee of $50 will be charged for the first 5 inches and $10 per inch thereafter. They will run in all editions of Sun Thisweek. Photos may be picked up at the office within 60 days or returned by mail if a self-addressed, stamped envelope is provided.

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following her hospital stay, using a cane to get around and continuing to undergo speech therapy. During his wife’s recovery, George Ostroushko has become an outspoken advocate for greater use of MRIs, a test which he says could have helped prevent Lynn’s seizure. “If an MRI had been done, a lot of this could have been avoided – not the tumor but the seizure – and we could have had the surgery earlier,” he said. “MRI is the only way to detect brain tumors, but insurance companies don’t want to pay for them. They’re being held back because of the cost constraints.” His interest in advocating for MRIs: “We don’t want this to happen to other people,” he said.

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Age 49, of Grand Island, Nebraska, died Thursday, September 13, 2012, at her home with her family by her side, after a courageous two year battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Cari's wishes were to be cremated. Curran Funeral Chapel is assisting the family. Cari was born October 3, 1962, in Golden Valley, MN. She was the daughter of Clifford and Dorothy (Giese) Nyland. Survivors of the immediate family include her three sons, Kyle Nyland of Savage, MN; Kley McColl of Lonsdale, MN; and Tanner Werre of Grand Island, NE. One daughter, Jessica Bykerk of Grand Island, NE. Her mother, Dorothy Nyland of Lakeville, MN; Three sisters, Colleen & Jim Elliott of Savage, MN; C a r o l D o n n e l l y o f Lakeville, MN; and Cathy Jensen of Lakeville, MN; and one Granddaughter Hazel Ingold (Werre) of Grand Island, NE. Others left to cherish her memory include her special friend, Ted Robb of Grand Island, NE. Eight nieces and nephews and eight grand nieces and nephews, and her cherished Jack Russell Terrier, Biscuit. Cari grew up in Lakeville, MN and graduated in 1980 from Lakeville High. She lived in South Dakota and Nebraska for the past 30 years. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. She was preceded in death by her father. Celebration for Cari will be held on Saturday, September 29th at the home of Cathy Jensen 8990 211th St. West, Lakeville, MN from 1-4pm. Memorials for the family accepted at the above address. On line condolences may be given at www.curranfuneralchapel.com under Cari's obituary.

Benefit concert for Apple Valley family by Andrew Miller

Gardner L. Miller

Cari J. Bykerk (Nyland)

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September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

Thisweekend

Caponi Art Park hosts Medieval Fair Sept. 30 by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

Those who need a break from the 21st century will find much to enjoy at Caponi Art Park next weekend. The art park in Eagan is partnering with the Society for Creative Anachronism, an historical recreation group, to host the Medieval Fair on Sunday, Sept. 30. The family-friendly living history event, now in its fifth year in Eagan, will see the park transformed into a medieval village with authentic pavilions, period clothing and demonstrations. The Barony of Nordskogen, the local SCA chapter staging the event, will be leading activities such as cooking, glass bead making, fiber arts

and more throughout the afternoon. Coin making and pewter casting demos have been added this year, and one Barony of Nordskogen member is bringing an array of animals – goats and rabbits mostly – to give the park the ambience of an authentic medieval village. Past Medieval Fair favorites such as period games, storytelling, music and dance, and an armorer demo are back. Armored combat – in which Barony members don armor, take up swords and engage in mock combat – returns in all its glory this year as well. Similar in appearance to the Renaissance Festival held annually in Shakopee, the Medieval Fair places an emphasis on education

Photo submitted

Armored combat – in which members of the Society for Creative Anachronism don armor, take up swords and engage in mock combat – returns in all its glory to this year’s Medieval Fair. and historical accuracy, according to Medieval Fair coordinator Liz Pearson. Food concessions will be available from local Boy Scout Troop 293, with proceeds going toward the troop’s canoe trip in the Boundary Waters. The Medieval Fair runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 30 in the park at 1220 Diffley Road, Eagan. Admission is free with a $5 per person suggested donation. More about the event is at www.caponiartpark.org. The Barony of Nordskogen is on the web at www. nordskogen.northshield. org. Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ Photo submitted ecm-inc.com or facebook. An armorer’s demonstration is one of the many hands-on activities planned at the Medieval com/sunthisweek. Fair.

theater and arts calendar To submit items for the Arts Calendar, email: darcy. odden@ecm-inc.com. Books Minneapolis author Monique Hammond will sign copies of her book, “What Did You Say? An Unexpected Journey into the World of Hearing Loss,” from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Apple Valley Barnes & Noble, 14880 Florence Trail. Hammond will speak about important hear-

ing loss topics, answer questions and provide prevention tips and resources on coping with hearing loss. Comedy Chad Thornsberry with special guest Nola J at 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, and Saturday, Sept. 15, at MinneHAHA Comedy Club, 1583 E. First Ave., Shakopee (lower level of Dangerfield’s), (612) 860-9388, www. minnehahacomedyclub.com.

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Tickets: $13. Chad Daniels at 7 p.m. Oct. 11, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Oct. 12-13, and 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at Laugh Lines Comedy, GrandStay Hotel, 7083 153rd St. W., Apple Valley. Tickets are $12 (Thursday/Sunday) and $15 (Friday/Saturday). Tickets are available online at www.hahatickets.com or by calling (651) 528-8454. Concerts The Rosemount Community Band and the River Valley Community Band will perform at the inaugural Spring Lake Park Reserve Musical Festival from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 23, at Spring Lake Park Reserve, 8395 127th St. E., Hastings. Free. New Life Band from Tanzania will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 13801 Fairview Drive, Burnsville. Information: Susan at sjambor@princeofpeaceonline.org or (952) 898-9404. Colleen Raye will perform her musical tribute to Patsy Cline

at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. Tickets are $19 and can be purchased at the box office, via Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 or ticketmaster. com. Exhibits/art shows Harvest of Art Community Art Exhibit runs through Nov. 2 at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S., and other Eagan locations. Information: (651) 675-5521 or www.eaganarthouse.org. Festivals/special events Holz Farm Lone Oak Days runs 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, and Sunday, Sept. 23, at Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan. Information: (651) 6755500 or www.cityofeagan.com. “Musical Heart Notes – Treasuring Children,” a musical fundraiser for Children’s Lighthouse of Minnesota, will be held from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Steeple

Center, 14375 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Information: www.childrenslighthousemn.org. Workshops/classes Adult painting open studio from 9 a.m. to noon the first and third Fridays of the month at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S. Fee is $5 per session. Information: (651) 675-5521. Music Together in the Valley offers classes for parents and their infant, toddler and preschool children in Rosemount, Farmington, Lakeville and Apple Valley. Information: www.musictogetherclasses.com or (651) 439-4219. The Eagan Art House offers classes for ages 4 through adult. Register now for fall classes. For a complete listing go to www. eaganarthouse.org or call (651) 675-5521. Dan Petrov Art Studio in Burnsville offers oil painting classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced skill level

painters, www.danpetrovart.com, (763) 843-2734. Teens Express Yourself with Paint, 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays at Brushworks School of Art in Burnsville, www.BrushworksSchoolofArt.com, (651) 214-4732. Drama/theater classes for ages 4 and up at River Ridge Arts Building, Burnsville, (952) 736-3644. Show Biz Kids Theater Class for children with special needs (ASD/DCD programs), In the Company of Kids 13710 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville, (952) 736-3644. Broadway Kids Dance and Theater Program for all ages and abilities, In the Company of Kids, 13710 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville (Colonial Shopping Center), (952) 736-3644. Join other 55-plus adults at the Eagan Art House to create beaded jewelry. The Jewelry Club meets on the third Friday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Information: (651) 675-5500. Savage Art Studios, 4735 W. 123rd St., Suite 200, Savage, offers classes/workshops for all ages. Information: www. savageartstudios.com or (952) 895-0375. Soy candle making classes held weekly in Eagan near 55 and Yankee Doodle. Call Jamie at (651) 315-4849 for dates and times. $10 per person. Presented by Making Scents in Minnesota. Country line dance classes held for intermediates Mondays 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Rambling River Center, 325 Oak St., Farmington, $5/class. Call Marilyn (651) 463-7833. Country line dance classes on Wednesdays at the Lakeville Senior Center, 20732 Holt Ave. Beginners, 9-10 a.m.; Intermediate, 10 a.m.-noon. $5/class. Call Marilyn (651) 463-7833. The Lakeville Area Arts Center offers arts classes for all ages, www.lakevillemn.gov, (952) 985-4640.

Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

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Thisweekend theater and arts briefs Photo contest winners

Book signing is Oct. 3 at BPAC Author Mark Forgy will sign copies and discuss his book “The Forger’s Apprentice” from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, in the art gallery at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. “The Forger’s Apprentice” is a memoir and coming-of-age journey of Forgy’s years as personal assistant to art forger Elmyr. The event is free and open to the public. Books will be available for sale and signing.

Winners in the first Burnsville Fire Muster Photo Contest were Joy Adams of Burnsville for her photo of the Police K-9 Demonstration with Burnsville Police Officer Ben Archambault and his K-9 partner Echo. Adams won first place. Second place went to Brian Esmay of Bloomington for his photo of the Burnsville Fire Department’s ladder truck. Both won a prize package from the Burnsville Fire Muster Committee.

Art crawl set Oct. 6

family calendar To submit items for the Family Calendar, email: darcy. odden@ecm-inc.com.

samaritanspurse.org/occ. For more information, call (612) 359-7025.

Friday, Sept. 21 Girl Scout recruitment night for girls in the Rosemount area, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Falcon Ridge Middle School cafeteria, 12900 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley. Membership dues: $12. Financial assistance available. Information: Keri Chumbley at thechumbleys@charter.net.

Wednesday, Sept. 26 Eagan Market Fest, 4 to 8 p.m., Eagan Festival Grounds. Last day of the farmers market for the 2012 season. Information: www.cityofeagan.com/ marketfest or (651) 675-5500.

Saturday, Sept. 22 Fourth annual Pedal the Parks, 9 a.m. to noon, Pioneer Plaza, 20801 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville. Registration and bike safety check, 9 a.m.; bike rodeo, 9 to 10 a.m. Bike 6, 10 and 20 miles. Preregister at www.lakeville-rapconnect.com, program No. 4902. Information: (952) 250-3320 or www. lakevillefriends.org. Monday, Sept. 24 Flapjack breakfast, 7:30 to 10 a.m., Ebenezer Ridges Campus, 13820 Community Drive, Burnsville. All-you-caneat pancakes, sausage, juice and milk. Cost: $5. Information: (952) 898-8400. Tuesday, Sept. 25 Open house for Operation Christmas Child, 4 to 6 p.m. at Prince of Peace Church, 13901 Fairview Drive (Door i), Burnsville. Short presentation from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Free green and red shoe boxes (GO boxes) available for new churches, groups, and other promotional opportunities. Call Dawn, (612) 231-6031, to reserve GO boxes or order online at www.

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Saturday, Sept. 29 G.A.P. Seminar (God Answers Prayer), 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church, 16725 Highview Ave., Lakeville. Registration and continental breakfast, 8 to 8:30 a.m. Cost: $10 (includes breakfast, box lunch and instructional materials). Timeless Biblical truths are presented and reinforced in a relaxed atmosphere. Email questions to: gapseminar@messiahonline. org. or call (952) 484-0386. Kids’ Used Clothing & Equipment Sale by the Minnesota Valley Mothers of Multiples from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan. Entrance fee: $2. Tickets on sale at 10 a.m. Cash or checks only. Information: www.mvmom.org. Blood drives The American Red Cross will hold the following blood drives. Call 1-800-RED

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Thursday, Sept. 27 Guatemala and Volunteer Vacations, 7 p.m. at Heritage Library, 20085 Heritage Drive, Lakeville. Part of a travel series hosted by Friends of the Heritage Library. Information: (952) 891-0360.

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CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. • Sept. 22, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 4150 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan. • Sept. 28, 2 to 7 p.m., Kowalski’s Market, 1646 Diffley Road, Eagan. • Oct. 1, 2 to 7 p.m., Walmart, 2200 Highway 13 W., Burnsville.

The Savage Arts Council will present the third annual Scott County Art Crawl from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6. The juried art crawl weaves through urban and rural areas in northern Scott County, with more than 30 stops at artist studios and artist host sponsors. The event includes a

variety of media including oil paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, glass art and more. Artwork is available for purchase during the art crawl. A pre-show exhibit is on display through Oct. 13 at the Prior Lake, Savage and Shakopee libraries during normal library hours. For more information, visit www.scottcountyartcrawl.org.

Lone Oak Days at Holz Farm Lone Oak Days Fall Festival will be 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, and Sunday, Sept. 23, at Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan. Activities at the 1940s farm include a hayride, rope making, farm animals and pony rides. A blacksmith will show how metal tools were made. Admission is free but some children’s activities require tickets which can be purchased for 50 cents each. For more information, call (651) 675-5500

or visit www.cityofeagan. com.

Auditions for ‘The ReGifters’ Auditions for “The ReGifters” will be held at the Lakeville Area Arts Center on Tuesday, Sept. 25, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Expressions Community Theater will be presenting this stage comedy in November. When a couple “regifts” a not-sogreat Christmas present, then finds out it’s worth a fortune, they will stop at nothing to get it back. Auditions will be readings from the script. Producers of the show are currently casting for the following two roles: one male age 40s to 50s (key role), and one male late 30s to mid 40s (smaller role). Show dates are Nov. 9-11 and 16-18. For more information, contact the director, Pege Miller, at (612) 670-8663. The arts center is located at 20965 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville.

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Sports

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

Defense is no liability for Eastview girls Soccer team shuts out 7 consecutive opponents by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

Opponents looking for a weakness on the Eastview girls soccer team might have targeted the Lightning defense, which had several younger players in front of a returning goalkeeper. It’s not working out so well for the opposition. After losing its season opener, the Lightning won eight in a row, seven by shutout, and moved to third in the state Class AA rankings. Tuesday night the Lightning edged No. 2-ranked Burnsville 2-1 in a South Suburban Conference showdown. Burnsville had won eight in a row, all by shutout, before losing to Eastview. The Eastview victory

only slightly eased the congestion at the top of the SSC standings. Before Tuesday, four teams were tied for first. After Tuesday, Eastview, Lakeville North and Prior Lake were tied for first, each at 5-0 in the league. It’s becoming evident that defense can take Eastview a long way. “Bri Lindstrom was our only returning defender,” coach David Herem said after the Lightning defeated East Ridge 2-0 in a nonconference game Saturday afternoon. “The other girls we’re playing there came in at the beginning of the year and won those jobs. We have a really good defense right now.” Before allowing Burns-

Photo by Mike Shaughnessy

Paige Wilberding (center) of Eastview goes to the ground after being fouled by Elizabeth Koprucki (right) of East Ridge in a girls soccer game Saturday.

ville a goal in the second half of Tuesday’s game, Eastview had shut out its previous seven opponents. The shutout streak was not the result of a soft schedule. It started with a 1-0 victory over defending state Class AA champion Wayzata on Aug. 30. Eastview has defeated several other teams with solid reputations, including Eagan, Lakeville South and Duluth East. “We knew our goalkeeper (Anhthu Huynh) was really good,” said senior midfielder Taylor Heppner, one of Eastview’s captains. “Our first game (a 2-0 loss to White Bear Lake), we didn’t play well as a team but we were still getting used to each other. But we’ve put in a lot of effort, a lot of hard work, and now I think we’re great in the back.” In addition to Lindstrom, Lightning defenders include Christina Barry, the only ninth-grader on the varsity roster; sophomore Claire Pueschner; and Jazzy Chanthalakeo and Chandler Peterson, both juniors. Eastview played against the wind in the first half against East Ridge and kept the game scoreless. Once the Lightning got the wind at its back, forwards Kellie McGahn and Melisse Chasse struck for goals. Herem said the Lightning wasn’t trying to just keep East Ridge at bay until it got the wind advantage, even though it might have looked that way. “We just wanted to play good soccer, with or without the wind,” he said.

Photo by Mike Shaughnessy

Eastview’s Kayla Tuthill (26) battles an East Ridge player for control of the ball during the Lightning’s 2-0 victory Saturday afternoon. “When you’re playing good teams, you’ve got to play your best the whole game.” Huynh has been in goal for all seven shutouts. Eastview had 17 goals during the eight-game winning streak, scored by nine different players. Emily Sutliff, a junior forward, led the team with four goals. Junior forward Elise Abbott and junior midfielder Katie Eaton scored in the first half of Tuesday’s victory at Burnsville.

Herem said the Lightning’s early success also can be attributed to the players being willing to accept whatever roles they’re given. “We have girls who were stars on their club teams,” he said. “Coach (Mary) Dye (varsity assistant) look at what we need on the team, and they might not be the same things their club coaches asked them to do.” Eastview got a boost in the South Suburban Conference standings by defeat-

ing Burnsville but is far from assured of winning the title. Four of the top five teams in last week’s state Class AA rankings – Lakeville North, Burnsville, Eastview and Prior Lake – are from the SSC. Eastview still has games remaining against No. 1-ranked Lakeville North (Sept. 27) and fifthranked Prior Lake (Oct. 2). Mike Shaughnessy is at mike. shaughnessy@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Irish come up with big Eagle Invitational play at opportune time attracts state’s best Rosemount defeats Kennedy for first victory of 2012 Sun Thisweek

Photo by Mike Shaughnessy

by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

by Mike Shaughnessy It’s like a scene from a bad movie: football coach calls timeout, talks to his offense, and the next play goes for a long touchdown. But don’t call in the screenwriters just yet. Yes, Rosemount scored the decisive touchdown of its victory over Bloomington Kennedy immediately after coach Jeff Erdmann took a timeout. But no, it was not so he could dial up a made-inHollywood specialty play. “We were having trouble getting the right call and the right people in,” Rosemount quarterback Sean Kalinowski said. “One of our running backs was hurt. We were running out of time.” Instead of rushing to the line on a secondand-eight play, the Irish stopped the clock and took their time to set up what came next – Kalinowski’s 58-yard pass to a wide-open Dimitri Williams giving Rosemount a 14-point lead on its way to a 21-14 victory over Kennedy last Friday. It was its first victory of the season after opening with losses to Apple Valley and Eden Prairie. It was just enough for the Irish to avoid a loss to Kennedy, whose quarterback, junior Travon Hearns, passed for 218 yards and rushed for 119. The big play was nice, Erdmann said, but equally as important to the Irish was reducing the number of self-destructive plays. “Week 1, we had four turnovers,” he said. “Week two, six turnovers. Tonight, one turnover on a tipped pass. When we don’t turn the ball over, when we do the things we’re supposed to do, we give ourselves a chance.” Kennedy, which had 401 yards of offense, gave Rosemount a tough time but short-circuited itself by committing six holding penalties. Still, the Irish’s lead wasn’t safe until they induced Kennedy’s defense to jump offside on third and three with one minute remaining. The resulting first down allowed Rosemount to run

Volleyball tourney is this weekend at AVHS

Photo by Mike Shaughnessy

Rosemount defensive lineman Brian Rogers (right) tangles with Bloomington Kennedy’s Alex Aviles during the Irish’s 21-14 victory Friday night. out the clock. Kalinowski also completed a 19-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Herbranson in the first quarter. On Rosemount’s first possession of the second half, the Irish moved 61 yards on three rushing plays, with senior Ali Al-Khatib scoring from the Kennedy 26. Rosemount’s offense sputtered at other times, but eventually wound up with 300 yards and three touchdowns. Hearns confounded the Irish defense, but Rosemount managed to turn away Kennedy three times when the Eagles had the ball inside the Irish 35. At this stage, a win is a win for the Irish. “For a lot of kids on our team, this was their third varsity game,” Erdmann said. Kalinowski said this group has potential. “We definitely still have a lot of work to do,” he said. “We saw some guys step up tonight, especially in the second half, and we played well as a team. It’s good to get a win, but at the same time we know we can be a lot better.” Kalinowski completed seven of 10 passes for 133 yards. Williams, a sophomore, gained 48 yards rushing in addition to his touchdown reception. Herbranson had four catches for 98 yards and a touchdown. Al-Khatib rushed for 63 yards. Even though Kennedy lost its starting tailback and an offensive lineman to injuries in the first half, Hearns was tough to handle. “We were just trying to give him different looks,” Erdmann said. “Sometimes we brought heat, sometimes we dropped back into coverage. If you show him the same thing every play, he’s going to hurt you. He’s good.” The Irish play Prior Lake in the last of three consecutive home games at 7 p.m. Sept. 21. Prior Lake reached the state large-school quarterfinals last year and relies on a punishing rushing attack. Prior Lake is 2-1 this season after defeating Apple Valley 34-26 last week. “They’re still one of the better teams in the (South Suburban) conference,” Erdmann said. “We’re going to have to play really well.”

Rosemount’s Jordan Herbranson catches a pass Mike Shaughnessy is at mike.shaughnessy@ecmin front of Bloomington Kennedy’s Brandon inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek. Grund.

The Eagle Invitational is one of three regular-season tournaments Apple Valley High School holds. The first one, the Aerie Challenge, took place Sept. 7-8, with Cretin-Derham Hall taking the championship. The last one, the October Classic, will be Oct. 12-13. Groves said there are still more teams wanting to play in the Eagle Invitational than there are spots available. The other two tournaments Apple Valley holds helps deal with the overflow. “We’ve had a team from Florida,” Groves said. “Two teams from Canada want to play next year.” Expanding the Eagle Invitational to 32 teams has been discussed, although a change is not imminent. Doubling the number of teams would result in individual teams getting one extra match, Groves said. Also, Minnesota State High School League rules limit teams to 15 sets during weekend tournaments. That’s one reason matches in regular-season tournaments usually are best of three sets, as opposed to best of five in other regular season and postseason matches. Newcomers to this year’s tournament are Waconia, Bemidji and Andover, all of which have played in the state Class 3A tournament within the past two years. Top players in the tournament include Lakeville North junior Alyssa Goehner, Eden Prairie senior Sarah Wilhite and Eagan junior Taylr McNeil. Wilhite led her team to the Class 3A state championship last season. Goehner and McNeil were teammates on Lakeville North’s 2010 state Class 3A champions before McNeil’s family moved to Eagan. Lakeville North’s opening match will be 6:15 p.m. Friday against Alexandria. Other first-round matches include Eagan against Moorhead at 5 p.m., Apple Valley against Shakopee at 5 p.m. and Eastview against Waconia at 6:15 p.m. All teams will play two matches Friday. The tournament continues Saturday, with the championship match scheduled for 2:30 p.m. This weekend will be the first time Weaver has coached a team other than Apple Valley at the Eagle Invitational. While that might seem odd to some, he downplayed it, saying it’s more about his team than it is about him. “We definitely have room to grow, not only in terms of individual ability, but as a team,” he said.

Apple Valley was one of the first high schools in Minnesota to recognize the potential of girls volleyball. The school started a regular-season weekend tournament in the 1970s, and to this day the Eagle Invitational remains one of the premier events on the fall calendar. “It is a major event in fall sports,” said Walt Weaver, who founded the tournament while serving as Apple Valley’s coach. “People who aren’t necessarily tied to one of the teams can come and watch a high level of volleyball. More and more highly ranked athletes in Minnesota are playing it, from second grade through college.” Weaver retired from Apple Valley and high school coaching after the 2006 season, although he continued to run clinics and coach at the club level. He returned to high school volleyball this season at Lakeville North, the No. 1-ranked team in Class 3A. The Panthers are favored to win this weekend’s Eagle Invitational – “they’re a collegelevel team,” said Apple Valley assistant coach Jeff Groves – but that doesn’t mean they expect it to be easy. “I think the team that went in as the favorite has lost more often than it’s won,” Weaver said. The 15-team field that starts play Friday includes the No. 1-ranked squad in each of the state’s three enrollment classes – Lakeville North in 3A, Marshall in 2A and Bethlehem Academy in 1A. Six of the top eight teams in the Class 3A rankings will play in this weekend’s tournament. Four of the teams – Apple Valley, Eagan, Eastview and Lakeville North – are from the South Suburban Conference. In 33 of the last 34 years, the state large-school champion played in the Eagle Invitational the same year. Blaine won last year’s Eagle Invitational, winning four matches without dropping a set. The Bengals, ranked second in Class 3A, are back to defend their championship. Also playing is Eden Prairie, which defeated Lakeville North in an epic five-set match at the 2011 state Class 3A tourney. As volleyball’s popularity expanded in Minnesota, more schools started holding invitational tournaments, but the Eagle Invitational continues to draw top teams. “We’re lucky,” said Groves, who has taken the duties of organizing the tournament. “The sport continues to grow. The demand is there. And the Mike Shaughnessy is at mike.shaughcoaches are very supportive. They’re nessy@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/ looking for tournaments that will give sunthisweek. their teams good competition.”

Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

Sports High school cycling league debuts Burnsville/ Lakeville co-op wins team title in opening race The inaugural race of the Minnesota High School Cycling League was Sept. 9 at Salem Hills Park in Inver Grove Heights, with 151 riders competing. Jordan Horner of Burnsville/Lakeville and Sonja Hedblom of Eagan High School finished second and third in the girls varsity race. Other high finishes by athletes from the Sun Thisweek coverage area included: Nicole Jensen, Burnsville/ Lakeville, fourth in freshman/sophomore girls; Erik Brekke, Eastview, second in freshman boys; Brett Levac, Apple Valley, fifth in freshman boys; Samuel Penders, Eastview, fourth in sophomore boys; Libbey Endersbe, Burnsville/ Lakeville, second in junior varsity girls; Carley Endersbe, Burnsville/Lakeville, third in junior varsity girls; Trevor Zarecki, Eagan, second in junior varsity boys; Blake Nelson, Burnsville/ Lakeville, third in junior varsity boys. The Burnsville/Lakeville cooperative team, consisting of riders from Burnsville, Lakeville North and Lakeville South high schools, won the team competition with 2,047 points, six more than Roseville. Eagan finished fourth, Eastview was ninth, Apple Valley placed 13th and a School District

196 composite team placed 16th. The league will have four races this fall. The next race is Sept. 23 at Eastwood Park in Rochester. Another race will be Oct. 7 at White

Today’s The Day Stop Smoking

Tail Ridge in River Falls, Wis. The state championships will be Oct. 28 at Buck Hill in Burnsville. For more information about the league, visit www. minnesotamtb.org.

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September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

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September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

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Apple Valley man faces new charge after alleged jail assault An Apple Valley Ewing he’d get him man being held in some food from the the Dakota County vending machine Jail on a robbery if he ended the archarge is now facgument. This aping allegations that parently angered he assaulted a fellow Ewing, who later inmate following an Kris L. accosted the victim argument over food. Ewing in the jail’s housing Kris L. Ewing, unit. 22, is accused of punch- The victim told jail depuing the other inmate in the ties that Ewing hit him at face with a closed fist, caus- least once, but he blacked ing multiple fractures. He’s out momentarily and could been charged with third- not remember other blows. degree assault, a felony, in He reported that he didn’t connection with the Sept. 2 think Ewing was going to incident. attack him during the en According to the crimi- counter, so he turned away, nal complaint, Ewing and and that’s when Ewing another inmate were argu- struck. ing about a bagged meal At no point did the vicwhen the victim stepped in tim attempt to fight back, a and separated them, telling witness reported.

The victim was taken to a hospital, where a CT scan determined he had suffered multiple sinus fractures and other facial injuries. Ewing was arrested and jailed July 25 on the felony robbery charge. He was allegedly one of three men who beat and robbed a man inside an unoccupied Apple Valley apartment after the man went there seeking sexual services through an ad on Backpage.com. Ewing remained in jail as of Monday afternoon, with bail set at $80,000 for the robbery charge and $30,000 for the assault charge. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 3. —Andrew Miller

College entrance exams now require ID under new rules District 196 administrators say high schools are prepared by Jessica Harper Sun Thisweek

High School juniors and seniors will soon need more than pencils and calculators when taking the ACT or SAT test. Students will now need to present a photo ID to register and take the college entrance exams. “This is a sign of the times,” said Sue Luse, an Eagan-based education consultant. “IDs are needed more and more and this should stop instances of cheating with a surrogate.” The new rules — adopted earlier this month — follows a series of cheating scandals including an incident in Long Island, New York, in December where a number of students paid impersonators as much as $3,000 to take the SATs for them in the hopes of getting higher scores. As a result, students are

required to submit current and recognizable photos when they register for the ACT or SAT. The photos will appear on the applicant’s admission tickets used when they take the test. On the day of the test, the student must present a valid photo ID to be matched with the submitted photo. Approved forms of ID include a driver’s license, passport or student identification card. Students who don’t have such IDs can present notarized letters with photos from their high schools. In addition to the ID requirement, standby or walkin testing will be eliminated by SAT. Those who miss the registration deadline, can be placed on a waiting list. ACT will provide standby testing, but only if students register their intent

to test and upload or send a photo in advance. The ACT will also add photos to the score reports it sends high schools, but will not include them in the scores to colleges. Students who are homeschooled will have a slightly different set of rules. Administrators in the Rosemount-Apple ValleyEagan School District have already started to share the changes with district high school students. “The changes shouldn’t present too much of a challenge since our students all have school IDs,” said Polly Reikowski, principal of Eagan High School. “I’m surprised it wasn’t required sooner.” Jessica Harper is at jessica. harper@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

District 196 students score above state average in science by Jessica Harper Sun Thisweek

Standardized test scores of students in the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan School District once again exceed the state average. District 196 students who scored proficient or better on state science tests given last spring exceeded state averages for all three grades tested, according to results released by the Minnesota Department of Education on Sept. 18. The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments are given statewide each spring and tests students’ proficiency in science in grades five, eight and high school (after completion of the life science curriculum). The test also assesses reading proficiency of students in grades three through eight and 10 and math proficiency in students in grades three through eight and 11. The MCAs measure student performance on the Minnesota Academic Standards, which define what students should know and be able to do in a particular grade. Students earn a score that falls into one of four achievement levels: 1) does not meet the standards; 2) partially meets the stan-

dards; 3) meets the standards, and 4) exceeds the standards. Students who meet or exceed the standards are considered to be proficient in the subject area. Of the fifth-graders tested, 60.8 percent of District 196 students scored at the meets or exceeds levels compared to 57.9 percent statewide. In eighth-grade, 46.3 percent of students scored at the meets or exceeds levels compared to 42.5 percent statewide. In high school, 67.5 percent of District 196 students scored at the meets or exceeds levels compared to 52.0 percent statewide. In 2011, the percentages of District 196 students who scored proficient on the MCA science tests were 56.6 for fifth-grade, 46.4 for eighth-grade and 64.7 for high school, but those results were not compared to 2012 because it was a new test in 2012 based on updated standards, according to a district news release. Results of the reading and math MCAs (not science) are used for the Multiple Measurement Ratings accountability measure that replaced the Adequate Yearly Progress system earlier this year as part of the

state’s waiver to the federal No Child Left Behind law. Although District 196 students outperformed the state average on the MCAs in reading and math, more than half of the district’s schools saw a decrease in their Multiple Measurement Ratings, according to an Aug. 30 report by the Minnesota Department of Education. Steve Troen, director of teaching and learning for District 196, pointed to a number of factors that could have contributed to declining MMR scores. “It can often be pieces of a subgroup that can have a big impact on a school’s MMR,” he said earlier this month. Troen added that the district has a dynamic strategy beyond the required plan to help struggling schools turn around. District 196 is not alone in its struggle to make improvements. Statewide, 213 schools missed the mark under the new accountability system. This is an improvement to the 1,000 schools that didn’t meet the standards of NCLB. Jessica Harper is at jessica. harper@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.