St Peter Profiles 2015

SAINT PETER

Profiles 2015 SAINT PETER’S UNSUNG HEROES

PAGE 2

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Plan your Spring move now!

At Ecumen Prairie Hill you can enjoy life to the fullest:

• Independent and assisted living • Memory care • Free valet parking • Anytime dining menu • Premium Direct TV • Next to River’s Edge Hospital • Short-stays welcome • No entrance fees Call Lisa for a personal tour!

507-484-2203

1305 Marshall Street | St. Peter, MN 56082 507-484-2203 | www.ecumenstpeter.org

Thursday, March 26, 2015

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

PAGE 3

WELCOME

Profiles 2015 A special project of the St. Peter Herald 311 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter, MN 56082 www.stpeterherald.com

The St. Peter area is filled with unsung heroes, but this year we’re focusing on those who Managing Editor aren’t traditionally considered heroes.

Suzanne Rook Advertising Manager Sure, our features this year include a member of the St. Peter Police Department. But in Kathleen Davies keeping with the theme, we spoke with its community service officer. She’s the person who Contributing Writers/Photographers Pat Beck, Dana Melius, Philip Weyhe deals with stray animals, runs any number of errands and generally does a lot of the less Cover Design Nikkie Gilmore glamorous jobs that ensure the department runs smoothly.

Page Design We’re also featuring a snowplow driver who works all hours of the day and night to keep Tony Borreson our local roads clear when the snow begins to fly, and a St. Peter High School custodian who Profiles 2015 is distributed to subscribers and readers of the St. Peter Herald at no additional charge. All rights reserved. © 2015 doesn’t just keep the school ship-shape, but mentors high school students in need of a caring All advertising contained herein is the responsibility of the advertiser. role model.

As we began planning our annual Profiles edition, compiling a list of ove AutomotiveiceIns c. kr S “unsung heroes,” we quickly realized that there’s almost no end to those Offers Auto Repair Serv in who contribute positively to our communities but are rarely get the You Can Count On! notice they so richly deserve.

So while we take our hat off to those featured on these pages, we’d 171 St. Julien Street • St. Peter • (507) 934-0055 also like to salute all who give so generously of their time and talents Monday - Friday 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. www.skroveautomotive.com with little thought to reward or recognition. For all you do, thank you.

LOCAL PEOPLE. LOCAL BANK. Wells Federal Bank is proud to serve and support local families and business in St. Peter and the surrounding communities. Wells Federal Bank, the stability you need, the products you want, and the service you deserve.

1618 South Minnesota Ave., St. Peter 507.931.6100 • www.wellsfederal.com

4 is

$$ $$

$$

$

to celebrate$$ $$ we will$$ be showering our $$ $$ customers $$with savings the entire $$ month of$$ april! $$

$$

$$

219 219 W W Park Park Row Row St Peter St Peter MN MN

Mon Mon -- Fri: Fri: 9:30 9:30 to to 5:30 5:30 Sat: Sat: by by appointment appointment

PAGE 4

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Thursday, March 26, 2015

At Your Service Janet Thompson

St. Peter Police Department Community Service Officer Janet Thompson and Kind Vet Veterinary Assistant/Pound Coordinator Alaina Olson pet Rhodesian ridgeback/golden retriever puppy Chloe and bulldog Debo at the animal pound. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

Janet Thompson spent 11½ years as a dispatcher for St. Peter Police Department.

For the last year and a half she’s been the community service officer, often referred to as the CSO. While a dispatcher job kept her in the office, her new position gives her the chance to get outside and meet the public.

“I liked working for the department, but being able to get out and work with the public makes it more enjoyable,” Thompson said.

Her favorite part of the job is speaking in schools. She speaks twice a year in the spring and fall about storm awareness with third-graders at all the schools in St. Peter.

She also gives kindergarten tours at the department and speaks to preschool classes at the community center about issues such as Halloween and bike safety.

Prior to getting the CSO job, Thompson served as a volunteer as a Girl Scout leader and a Sunday school teacher, speaking with children and the public. She also helped with the PAWs Walk fundraiser for the Pound Animals.

Solving problems

Community education is one of the three main parts of the job, but Thompson spends more of her time with animal control and city ordinance enforcement. She also assists the officers and dispatchers with a variety of issues.

“The job encompasses a lot of different skills,” Thompson said. “Most important are

the abilities to interact with people and handle difficult situations.”

St. Peter Police Chief Matt Peters said that the community service officer has one of the most difficult jobs in the department.

“That position encompasses so many that are helpful for our community,” Peters said.

“It’s an important job to improve the quality of life for residents of St. Peter, and Janet does an excellent job. She’s a good problem solver, and you have to be self motivated to find solutions.”

Thompson said the number of complaints she handles vary from three to 20 a week. There numbers rise in the summer when people are outside.

Thompson recommends residents contact their neighbor in a calm and friendly manor first to try and resolve a dispute themselves.

Service Continued on Page 5

“If I come in, there’s a lot of people who feel offended that they didn’t talk to their neighbor first,” Thompson said. “I can help resolve it when they don’t have any luck addressing it.”

Thompson also helps enforce city ordinances from dogs doing their business where they shouldn’t to junk in a back yard.

“A lot of people may be unhappy with their neighbors,” Thompson said. “We need to be able to resolve problems.”

But that’s something Thompson enjoys doing.

“Even things that can be less glamorous can be very rewarding,” she said.

That includes helping residents find the resources they need. For instance, Thompson helps coordinate volunteers for cleanup or mowing lawns.

Thursday, March 26, 2015

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

PAGE 5

Service From Page 4 Sometimes it’s someone new in town or neutered. Adoption fees range from who isn’t aware of city ordinances or who $25 to $150. Cats are usually $25. Dogs and kittens are $150. has a medical issue.

Thompson said one of the positive As the city dog and cat catcher, she responds to complaints of dogs running aspects of animal control is the volunloose, barking or defecating in neighbors’ teers. Forty-two Gustavus Adolphus yards. While dogs are typically picked up College students play with the animals. right away and claimed by the owner, cats When students aren’t in a school, such are usually given a day to return home. as in the summer, local volunteers inThompson suggests not cluding the St. Peter Recrefeeding cats to allow them time ation Volunteers in the Park to return home. help play with and walk the Most often it’s dogs causanimals. ing the problems. The animal A single mom, Thompson pound keeps up to 10 animals lives in St. Peter with her three at one time. While 90 percent children, Johanna, 17; Jaydon, are claimed, those that aren’t 9; and Jack, 5; and their dog claimed in a week are put up Thompson Rudi, “a wild 2-year-old Gerfor adoption. If they aren’t adman short hair which give me opted, there are volunteers who provide good practice for animal control.” foster care.

Prior to joining the police depart“Unfortunately pound animals are ment, Thompson worked as a health and the first thing people think of when they safety manager at Unimin Corp. from want to adopt an animal,” Thompson 1998-2000 and at Cambria from 2000-02. said. “We’re always trying to find homes for pound animals. But with the PAWS Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931funding, we keep adoption costs fairly 8566 or follow him on Twitter.com @ low. All animals are vaccinated, spayed SPHSportsPat.

RESPONSIBILITIES The community service officer responsibilities include: • Animal control • Code enforcement • Community service activities • Support services • Public education • Bicycle education and enforcement • Supervision of “Sentence to Serve” projects •The CSO spends much time on animal control problems. This entails working with residents in an effort to license animals. It also involves assisting residents in the trapping of wild animals.

Another major role of the CSO is code enforcement.

This includes identifying nuisances and responding to nuisance complaints. Examples of common nuisance complaints are; unregistered or inoperable vehicles, discarded furniture and appliances, unused building materials, brush and weeds. It’s necessary to identify violators and work with property owners in an effort to abate the nuisance.

The CSO also conducts residential “vacation” surveys and surplus property auction, organizes department projects and delivers department correspondence.

Since 1979

317 S. Minnesota Ave

cheeseandpie.com

St. Peter, MN

507-934-9066

Photo by Joseph Scheller 228 Mulberry St. Peter, MN 56082 | stpeterfood.coop | Open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. | EVERYONE IS WELCOME EVERY DAY.

PAGE 6

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Caring for Everyone Robyn Sellner

Robyn Sellner has worked at Ecumen Sand Prairie for more than 14 years. (Philip Weyhe/Le Sueur News-Herald)

By PHILIP WEYHE

pweyhe@lesueurnews-herald.com

Robyn Sellner embodies the role of unsung hero.

As a memory care assistant at Ecumen Sand Prairie in St. Peter, she is modest. She is quiet. She is darn good.

“It’s who she is,” said Ecumen Manager Lisa Hofferbert. “Her care and her empathy and her ability

to connect are extraordinary.”

Sellner has been employed at Sand Prairie for 14 years, working in a team to assist seniors in living, specifically those with some degree of dementia.

It’s a full-time job, yet still not enough to satisfy her need to help others. She also works part-time for Nicollet County Public Health as a health aid, going to people’s homes to assist them there.

“I’ve had some of my home care clients move to

[Sand Prairie],” she said. “It’s amazing to continue that relationship with them.”

One might think Sellner would be exhausted with the two jobs, but despite her soft-spoken nature, it is obvious she is filled with life. Her list of hobbies is long and includes mushroom hunting, motorcycle riding, gardening, turkey hunting and thrift store shopping.

She lives with her boyfriend, Jerry, in Belle Plaine

Caring

Continued on Page 7

and is close with her 29 year-old daughter, Ashley.

She is also close with her mother, Phyllis, sister, Rhonda and brother, Randy.

All of them were close with her father, Ronald, before he die from cancer six years ago. She speaks about him with a sadness in her eyes, but a smile on her face. She recalls seeing how he was cared for in the hospital, and how important that was to her family.

Thursday, March 26, 2015

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

PAGE 7

Caring From Page 6 “When I saw the care he was getting, it inspired me,” Sellner said. “I knew I could be a great caretaker.”

According to Hofferbert, who has known Sellner since their time together at St. Peter High School, she has always had a kind heart.

“She has this way of sensing and being there for people,” Hofferbert said.

during meals and activities. Where others may have just left him be or tried to push him too hard, Sellner used her method, constant but patient.

“Robyn would go up there every single day and knock on his door,” Hofferbert admired. “Day after day after day, she’d knock and invite him down, knock and invite him down.”

One day, he accepted. He came down with Sellner to supper and she introduced him to new people.

All about the team And she kept doing it from there, getting him more Not everyone realizes the extent or the imporacquainted and putting smiles on his family’s faces. tance of what they do. If Sellner does see it, she hides “It was invaluable for us,” Hofferbert said. “We it behind a wall of modesty. didn’t want him to be isolated. For her to help him “I don’t even know why I was chosen,” she said. “I feel special was such a relief to our family.” don’t think I’m that special. We’re all doing it here.”

It’s what Sellner and other memory care assistant She’s right, of course, about the last thing at do every day, taking care of our seniors in a time least. A community like Sand Prairie requires a that can be lonely and team effort, filled with horribly frustrating. employees caring for the “Not being able to ABOVE AND BEYOND patients as well as each do what you know you Robyn Sellner’s work at Sand Prairie other. It’s an aspect of the could do before ... that extends beyond the regular duties. job that Sellner wanted has to be frustrating,” She is also a part of a safety committee to be noted. she said.

“I just want people and a quality improvement committee, No doubt, the frusto know about the great which she said make her feel more trations are understandteamwork among our involved in the whole process. She also able and workers have to staff,” she said. “I could serves as a peer mentor, training in be ready for some of it to not do my job without new employees. come out on them. my team.”

“We see anxiety, anHofferbert said the ger, agitation,” Sellner team, all women besides the maintenance man, is said. “But it may not be anything toward you. It’s filled with different personalities that approach the about figuring out what the problem is. Be flexible job with different styles. Sellner stands out because and calm and creative.” of her experience and her patience.

It can be difficult and it can be taxing, but for “There is no request too great for her,” HofferSellner it is always rewarding. bert said.

“I like to learn about their past and learn what Memory care assistants they used to do,” she said. “They really appreciate you and they help you give them care.” put families at ease Sung or unsung, it doesn’t matter to Sellner. The Hofferbert has felt the heroics of Sellner on a validation hides in the well-worn smiles of the semore personal level. When her father-in-law was recently widowed, his family helped him move to niors she tends to.

“I know every day I make a difference in their Sand Prairie for assistance.

“It was difficult for him,” Hofferbert said. “He life,” she said. didn’t know anybody. He just came here and kept Reach Reporter Philip Weyhe at 507-931-8576 or to himself.” follow him on Twitter.com @LNHphilip.

He rarely left his room and never joined others

“I know every day I make a difference in their life.”

Robyn Sellner on working with patients at Ecumen Sand Prairie

Sellner and Hofferbert both work for Ecumen, and have known each other since high school in St. Peter.

(Philip Weyhe/ Le Sueur NewsHerald)

FOCUS Depend on quick, thorough transactions and possible revolving loan when dealing with the City of Saint Peter. Starting, relocating or expanding business will be your focus, not chasing the details.

LOCATION Businesses benefit from Saint Peter’s location and proximity to interstate transportation networks, meaning lower costs, short commutes, ease of movement, a network of support services and suppliers.

HOUSING

A range of housing costs is represented in Saint Peter; apartments, townhomes and single family housing are available. The river bluff provides spectacular homesites nestled in wooded lots.

COMMUNITY Saint Peter has over 40 sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Quality faculty, specialized programs and a supportive learning environment distinguish Saint Peter Schools.

An Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration, Rock Bend Folk Festival, and the annual Nobel Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College are a handful of events enjoyed in Saint Peter.

WORKFORCE

Our labor force is one of experience and dependability. Ninety percent of persons age 25 and over are high school graduates, and over 29% hold bachelors degrees. Workers enjoy an average travel time to work of just 15 minutes.

Municipal Building 227 South Front Street, Saint Peter, MN 56082 507-934-4840

saintpetermn.gov

PAGE 8

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Hospital & Clinic Merging Streams of Health Care

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Exceptional Care...

...When you need primary care River’s Edge Clinic St. Peter & River’s Edge Clinic Le Center

...In an emergency • 24/7 Emergency Room • Urgent Care 5pm-8pm M-F; 10am-4pm Weekends

...When you are recovering • Private Rooms • Low nurse to patient ratio • Expanded menu choices

Visit www.REHC.org to see more!

1900 North Sunrise Drive, St. Peter Hospital: 931-2200 • Clinic: 934-8480

Thursday, March 26, 2015

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

PAGE 9

Recipe for Success Erik Foutch

By DANA MELIUS

through the aisles, in the kitchen “it’s a go, go, go” pace, Foutch noted.

“The deli is kind of a separate entity from the rest St. Peter Food Co-op’s amazing growth of the store,” he noted. “It’s not even the same game. through the years, from its humble beginning in When one person goes above and beyond, it makes July 1979 at its tiny Front Street and Broadway everyone want to go above and beyond.”

But while the deli kitchen duties can ratchet up Avenue store to its showcase facility in April 2011, is often attributed to its one and only general man- the stress, Foutch said the quality of fellow employees and their work ethics make for a great staff environager, Margo O’Brien.

But O’Brien instead deflects the praise to the ment.

“The deli crew, especially the night crew, is really Food Co-op’s employees and staff culture. It’s a great place to work, she believes, and there have tight. We’re also best of friends.”

Still, there are days, Foutch noted. been some great employees over 35 years in the St. “Sometimes we’re just scrambling to get things Peter business community.

Ask around for an unsung hero in that often done that day. We usually have four hours to produce at the very least 32 pans of food. If it’s a theme day, praised deli kitchen,and one name pops up. we’ll probably produce up to 50.

“Erik. Erik Foutch,” said “That’s the biggest challenge,” front-end manager Rob Foutch added, maintaining food Thomas, without hesitation.

MORE quality and plate appearance O’Brien agreed.

INFORMATION through the day.

“We’re very, very proud of Erik Foutch laughed Those theme days are favorErik,” she said. when asked about his ites of Foutch’s, especially the Foutch, 24, is in his fourth “normal” schedule.

Indian food he helped develop year in the Food Co-op’s Anyone who’s been in a and produce. It’s also a favorite kitchen. He calls himself a food service kitchen, he of many customers, he said, as “manager in training.” A na“it’s really hard to find good Insaid, understands. While tive of Le Center and 2009 dian food.” graduate of Minnesota New Monday and Tuesday “I’m a big fan of Indian day,” Country School in Henderare his regular days off, Foutch said, which has produced son, he never really saw his there’s usually nothing the Co-op’s highest gross revefuture in the kitchen, as a normal about the food nue days. “I’m always trying for cook. After high school, he service industry. better ways to do things. And moved to St. Peter and joined The St. Peter Food those theme nights are great and then Econofoods’ deli staff for Co-op, located at 228 are what we want to bring to the a couple years, receiving onMulberry St., is open Co-op — diversity.” the-job training.

7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Foutch is pleased with reac“Public school just wasn’t tions of customers, fellow staff clicking for me,” Foutch said members, and the ongoing of his move out of Le Center and to the charter school. It was a good move, growth of the Food Co-op.

“It’s nice to see how much growth has come in he said. just a few years,” he noted, both in the store and in “It helped me grow socially and certainly helped me in other areas. It made me communi- himself. But while his current role at the Food Co-op satisfies his current needs, he may need to someday cate much better with people.”

Those attributes helped him grow as a cashier, move on to pursue other interests.

“I’d like to do line cooking someday,” Foutch said. stocker and deli cook at Econofoods in St. Peter.

When the new St. Peter Food Co-op facility went “And I do have experience managing people. So, I’m up nearby on Broadway Avenue in 2011, it peaked getting some of the training I need.”

Besides the praise of management, fellow kitchen Foutch’s interests. Today, he’s pretty much second staff members echo the same of the 24-year-old cook. in command to deli and kitchen Manager Shyama “He’s a good worker. A good teacher,” said fellow O’Brien.

“Probably because I’m willing to take the pres- deli staffer Mallory Smith, who’s been at the Co-op sure off Shyama’s shoulders,” Foutch said. “I have a three months. And Foutch sends it right back.

“I really appreciate my co-workers,” he said. wide variety of jobs. It’s really nice. At a restaurant, you’ll have a set menu. Here, we get to try new Reach Associate Editor Dana Melius at 507things.”

While the more quiet, subtle pace of other 931-8568 or follow him on Twitter @SPHdanaFood Co-op jobs seems evident during a walk john. dmelius@stpeterherald.com

Erik Foutch in the St. Peter Food Co-op deli, his fourth year there. (Dana Melius/St. Peter Herald)

PAGE 10

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Clearing the Way Dean Enter

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

Dean Enter gets behind the wheel of a snowplow in the earliest and toughest road conditions on the day, but he enjoys the challenge.

A Nicollet County Public Works Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Enter has driven a snowplow for 27 years, so he’s faced a variety of conditions.

Enter likes the excitement of snowplowing.

“It’s kind of adventurous,” Enter said.

“Every condition is different. It’s kind of fun most of the time.”

“Last year was a tough year for us. We had a lot of snow and a lot of wind blowing every day, so we had some instances where we had to replow just to open roads.

We had roads that sometimes you get a drift 4-5 feet deep. Visibility gets really bad sometimes. I’ve had a truck in the ditch once and my motor dragger in the ditch twice.”

The biggest challenge of snowplowing is dealing with traffic.

“The biggest thing about snowplowing is to always be aware of your surroundings and always know who’s behind you, so people don’t run into you or you don’t run into somebody else,” Enter said.

Clearing

Nicollet County Highway Maintenance Supervisor Dean Enter checks traffic at an intersection while snowplowing county roads. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

Continued on Page 10

on Third

Southern Minnesota’s Craft Beer Destination!

• Private Parties & Catering Available • Happy Hour: M-F, 3-6 Half price pints • Lunch & Dinner Specials from 11 am -11 p.m.

• Outdoor seating available • Take Out & Off Sale Available • We Have a 14 Tasty Burger Selection

125 S. 3rd St. • St. Peter • 931-9051 www.patrickson3rd.com

Bring your old paint and household chemicals to the regional HHW facility, located at 651 Summit Ave. in Mankato. This facility is open to residents of Le Sueur, Nicollet & Sibley Counties.

Tuesdays 12 noon - 6 p.m. · 2nd Saturdays 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Open through October 27

Paints & Stains Garden Chemicals Rechargeable Batteries Solvents

Cleaners Old Gasoline Adhesives Aerosols

Mercury Containing Devices (Thermometers, etc.)

Fluorescent Bulbs (From households only)

We absolutely CANNOT accept: Business or agricultural chemicals or waste, motor oils or oil filters, explosives, or ammunition.

For more information, contact the Tri-County Solid Waste Office at 507-381-9196 www.co.nicollet.mn.us Go to Departments - Tri-County Solid Waste

Thursday, March 26, 2015

s

a

g

g

o

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

PAGE 11

Clearing From Page 10 Snowplows normally go 30 to 35 mph, depending on conditions, and Enter said, “People drive too fast. That’s the main problem.”

Enter said vehicles need to give snowplows “plenty of room to do things. Sometimes we have to back up.”

The county plows the rural roads whenever conditions are getting slippery.

Compared to city roads, county roads have less traffic, and there is less traffic after 8 a.m. when most people have gone to work or school.

“But we deal with more wind and drifting,” Enter said.

Snowplow drivers also have to avoid hitting mailboxes and any other obstacles in their path.

Normally he plows the Traverse Township area. But sometimes he also fills in nearby townships where needed.

Most of the routes are from 25 to 30 miles, which takes about three hours to complete. The county has more than 300 miles of roads. They put 20,000 miles per year on a truck and replace one every year.

They usually start in the darkness at

5 a.m., depending on when it snows. and County Engineer. “Dean is an excel“We try to have everything opened up lent operator and has served the county by 7 o’clock, so roads are open for the school very well for many years. I trust him to get the job done.” buses,” Enter said.

Drivers usually work eight hours, but “A snowplow driver needs to be mesometimes, if there’s more snow, they can chanically inclined and a jack of all trades do up to 12 hours because you never of plowing. They know what you’re going to run into encourage a break DEAN ENTER FILE every few hours. in a given day. You Home: St. Peter The county might have breakFamily: Wife Pam, children Jeff has 10 trucks and downs out on the and Jennifer; grandchild three motor dragroads.

Age: 57 gers (road graders) “You also have Years snowplowing: 27 to have someone which are also used Retirement plans: In a few years, dedicated to the for blading gravel 61 or 62, depending on health roads in the sumjob. The hours are insurance coverage, he said. mer. not always set. You There are 11 may get a call out drivers who go of the blue that through a one-day training program with you need to get out and plow at 5 o’clock the Minnesota Department of Transporta- in the morning. The day can be long, and tion. Supervisors ride with the drivers for if it snows every single day for two months straight, you’re working every day for two several days.

“We have an excellent crew who does months straight.” a very good job,” said Seth Greenwood, It can be a stressful job, Greenwood said.

Nicollet County Public Works Director “You’re not only looking at what you’re do-

ing, but also at what everybody else is doing. And you’re watching your wing for every mailbox, so you don’t slip those off, too,” In addition to plowing, Enter puts sand and salt down in the major intersections, curves and hills.

The county has one main highway department office in St. Peter and three satellite shops where trucks are sent out. There are three trucks in St. Peter, three in Nicollet, three in Klosner and two in Lafayette.

As the highway supervisor of 12 people year round, Enter spends time driving roads or calling people out to do highway maintenance in the summer. Jobs include ditch mowing, seal coating, repairing pot holes and gravel road maintenance.

In the wintertime, they’re mostly snowplowing. When temperatures warm, they do tree trimming along the highways so the branches aren’t interfering with signs. They also do most of the repairs on the trucks and snowplows.

Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 9318566 or follow him on Twitter.com @ SPHSportsPat.

Educating Students

for the 21st Century

SAINT PETER PUBLIC SCHOOLS

What we hold true:

What drives our acts:

* Guaranteed and viable curriculum * S kille d t e ac h e rs, a d min ist rat ors, a n d s u p p o rt p e rs o n n e l * Safe, or derly and caring environment * All systems focused on student learning * Resources aligned w ith educational goals * Strong partnerships w ith parents and community

* An unw avering commitment to continuous impr ovement * Q u ality e d u c atio n d e liv ere d by h ig h -p e rf o rmin g e m p loy e e s * Every child having equal opportunities for a quality education * That everyone is capable of learning * The development of good and productive citizens * Lear ning as a shared effort betw een staff, students, parents, and the community.

All our sites are: * Advanc ED Accredited

Contact Information South Elementary 507-934-2754 North Intermediate 507-934-3260 Middle/High School 507-934-4210 Community & Family Education 507-934-3048 District 508 Office 507-934-5703 www.stpeterschools.org Twitter: @Saints508

PAGE 12

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Here to Help Greg Davis

Greg Davis still dreams that a state tournament participation trophy will fit into the Cleveland Clippers trophy case. (Dana Melius/St. Peter Herald)

By DANA MELIUS

dmelius@stpeterherald.com

Greg Davis hasn’t strayed far from his native Cleveland. It’s been his life — as a farmer, a teacher, a DFL activist and community volunteer.

“I’ve lived in the same location all but two years of my life,” Davis, who resides on the family farm north of Lake Washington reflected.

And if there’s a celebration or activity with Cleveland stamped on it, Davis is sure to be in-

volved, most often in a volunteer role. This summer is the big one for Davis and much of his community, as Cleveland Public Schools celebrates its 100th year. Davis is part of the organizing committee. He’s a 1967 graduate.

“We’re kind of proud that we’ve still got a school here,” Davis said. “It’s the glue that’s kind of kept this community together.”

The Davis family’s deep roots have also put their stamp on Cleveland Schools. His grandfather served on one of the eight country school

boards in the early 1900s, helping consolidating them into Cleveland Public School in 1914. His father, W.C. Davis, was an early School Board member and his uncle, Royal Davis, etched his name into the 1949 building addition plaque.

Davis now teaches social studies and driver’s education at this historic school, but he took the long way, not joining the full-time Cleveland school district staff until 2000. While Davis has substitute taught at Cleveland since 1971, at age 50, Davis finally landed that full-time position.

Help

Continued on page 13

Fifteen years later, he’s still at it, still enjoying his work, always hoping to instill something that will stick with his students.

“I was the 50-year-old rookie,” he joked. “That was different, after subbing for a long time, now all of a sudden you’re into a full-time school position.”

What took so long? Davis said two main reasons kept him on the sidelines for quite some time – the family farm and a glut of teachers in his field.

Thursday, March 26, 2015

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

PAGE 13

Help From Page 12 “Back in the ‘70s, social studies teachers were a dime a dozen,” he noted. Yet, because of the Davis family farm, deep roots in the region and his diverse interests, he stuck close to home. When his mother died in 2000, full-time teaching became more of a possibility.

But that doesn’t mean Davis didn’t walk the halls of Cleveland Public School through the years. Or sit at the scorer’s table in the gymnasium. Davis figures he’s been either keeping score or manning the clock at basketball games since 1966.

His one hope remains that he’ll be at the scorer’s table for a Cleveland state tournament trip.

“I was never a player myself, but I’ve always enjoyed it, especially basketball.”

Dawn Brown, principal at Cleveland Public Schools, applauds Davis’ commitment to the community.

“Greg is known for being the town historian of Cleveland,” she noted. “He is very knowledgeable and involved in local politics. He is quite talented at public speaking and historical story telling. Greg thrives on the relationships he builds with

community members and with the students through teaching and involvement in athletic support.”

Davis doesn’t only sink his time into school events. He’s active in a host of other activities, volunteering in nearly all. His mother had been a U.S. Army nurse, so he’s helped keep the Cleveland Sons of the American Legion branch active.

“We’re one of the few Sons of the American Legion branches with its own building,” Davis noted.

Davis has also been active at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Cleveland, as well as serving on the Washington Township Board for 35 years.

And he’s also put his social studies interest to work in Le Sueur County DFL politics, having served on and off as chairman since 1989, often a thankless post.

While Davis recalls days when hundreds of party activists would attend precinct caucuses and county conventions, he’s also stuck with the organization during down times, according to Le Sueur County DFL Treasurer Brad Gess of Le Sueur.

“He was basically the one who kept the

Your history is our history.

For 130 years the St. Peter Herald has been right here, covering all the news, sports and community events that mean the most to you. And we plan to be here tomorrow, sharing your stories, recording more of St. Peter’s history.

311 S. Minnesota Ave. • St. Peter, MN 56082 507-931-4520 • Fax: 507-931-4522 or visit us at

stpeterherald.com

organization together in the lean years,” Gess said, who returned to the county in 2007 from the more active party political scene in Minneapolis. It’s much different in rural Minnesota, Gess said.

“I really appreciate that he’s been such a loyal supporter of the Le Sueur County DFL,” Gess said. “He definitely puts his heart and soul into it.”

Gess said it’s volunteers like Davis who are so vital to any organization.

“It seems like volunteers like Greg always seem to have time to help out with one more thing,” Gess added.

Still, Davis hopes his teaching and love for government and politics transfers to his students. That, he admits, hasn’t been easy.

“I really haven’t had much luck getting those young kids interested in politics,” Davis admitted.

So, maybe he’ll stick at it at least a couple more years, he said. Or until that Cleveland state tournament trip.

Reach Associate Editor Dana Melius at 507-931-8568 or follow him on Twitter @ SPHdanajohn.

DID YOU KNOW? Greg Davis expects to wear several hats during the Cleveland Public Schools 100thyear celebration during the community’s annual Cherry Creek Days June 20.

Davis is a part of that organizational committee, and for good reason.

“There hasn’t been a year that I haven’t actually stepped foot in here since first grade,” Davis has said. As a 1967 CHS graduate, Davis’ walk through those halls dates back into the mid-1950s.

PAGE 14

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Thursday, March 26, 2015

39th ANNUAL

10786A

11016B

11210

2014 Chrysler 300C AWD

2014 Dodge Charger SE

2014 Dodge Dart SXT

2011 Honda Fit Sport

2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser

$27,975

$17,975

$15,975

$13,975

$5,975

only 21K miles

PW, PDL, 80K miles

SOLD

10810

10751A

SOLD

PW, PDL, only 9K miles

11150A

p.seat, alloy wheels

11261A

moonroof, heated/cooled seats

2012 Ram 1500 Quad Cab

2011 Ram Dakota Ext. Cab

2013 Jeep Wrangler Sport 4X4

2012 Jeep Patriot Sport 4X4

2007 Chrysler Pacifica

$26,975

$20,975

$23,975

$14,975

$6,975

Bighorn 4X4, p. seat, tow.

Bighorn 4X4, 32K miles

hard top, 23K miles

PW, PDL, sunscreen

10883A

SOLD

10954

11174

Pre-Owned InventOry

heated leather, p. seats

Pre-Owned Inventory Get here soon to get the one you want!

Loaded with features!

Low Mileage!

Starting as low as

16 Dodge Grand Caravan & Chrysler Town & Country’s to choose from!

VANS 2013 TOWN & COUNTRY LMTD, 1 owner, dual DVD .................................................... $26,975 2012 TOWN & COUNTRY LMTD, moonroof, NAV, tow .................................................. $23,975 2012 TOWN & COUNTRY TOURING, heated leather, NAV, 1 owner ............................ $16,975 2011 TOWN & COUNTRY TOURING-L, heated leather, back up camera .......................... $16,975 2010 GRAND CARAVAN SXT, p. doors/gate, p. seat ..................................................... $13,975 2007 GRAND CARAVAN SE, 7 passenger, rear air ......................................................... $6,975

CARS 2014 CHRYSLER 200S AWD, 5.7 Hemi, moonroof,NAV ............................................... $34,975 2014 CHRYSLER 200 LMTD, heated leather, remote start ........................................... $15,975 2014 DODGE AVENGER SE, 4cyl, auto, PW, PDL ....................................................... $13,975 2013 NISSAN ALTIMA 2.5S, 4 cyl, auto, p. seat.........................................................$13,975 2013 CHEVY IMPALA LT, remote start, moonroof .....................................................$13,975 2013 HONDA ACCORD EX-L, heated leather, moonroof, 7K ....................................$23,975 2013 CHRYSLER 200’s, 3 to choose from ................................................ As low as $12,475 2012 CHEVY CAMARO RS, conv., only 25K .............................................................$21,975 SOLD 2011 CHRYSLER 200 TOURING, p. seat, alloy wheels, 25K.........................................

SOLD $13,975 2010 CHEVY MALIBU LTZ, heated leather, moonroof ...............................................$11,975 2010 CHEVY IMPALA LT, heated leather, moonroof ..................................................$10,975 2009 FORD FUSION SE, V6, p. seat, 6CD ..................................................................$7,975 SOLD 2008 CHRYSLER SEBRING TOURING, conv., hardtop, 41K ....................................$12,975 2006 BUICK LACROSSE CXS, p. seat, leather, alloy wheels .......................................... $8,475 2006 CHRYSLER SEBRING GTC, conv., only 65K .....................................................$7,975 2005 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER, conv., 4 cyl turbo, leather ............................................. $7,975

$17,975!!

2005 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX, 4D, 3800 V6, p. seat ...................................................$6,975 2004 CHRYSLER SEBRING LMTD, V6, h. leather, 54K .................................................. $6,975 2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER, moonroof, 2 to choose from .......................................

SOLD $3,975

TRUCKS 2012 RAM 1500 QUAD CAB EXPRESS 4X4, only 15K................................................. $26,975 2012 RAM 1500 QUAD CAB, Bighorn 4X4, 42K ............................................................ $26,975 2012 RAM 3500 CREW 4X4, 6.7 cummins diesel, loaded............................................. $43,975 2011 RAM 1500 QUAD CAB, Bighorn 4X4, 34K ............................................................ $26,975 2010 RAM 1500 QUAD CAB 4X4, Bighorn, p. seat, tow. ............................................... $20,975 2008 CHEVY SILVERADO EXT. CAB 4X4, LT, p. seat, 20” wheels ................................ $17,975 2005 FORD F-150 EXT. CAB 4D, 4X2, leather, tow ....................................................... $11,975 2000 FORD F-150 Ext. CAB XLT 4x4............................................................................... $7,975

SUV/CROSSOVER 2014 JEEP CHEROKEE LATITUDE 4X4, PW, PDL, 19K .............................................. $22,975 2014 JEEP COMPASS LATITUDE 4X4, heated seats, back up camera........................ $20,975 2014 DODGE JOURNEY AWD, 2 to choose from ....................................... Starting at $18,975 2014 JEEP PATRIOT 4X4, 2 to choose from ................................................ Starting at $18,975 2013 CHEVY EQUINOX LT FWD, back up camera, alloy wheels .................................. $17,975 2010 JEEP LIBERTY SPORT 4X4, V6, alloy wheels, tow pkg ....................................... $10,975 2009 LINCOLN MKX AWD, leather, moonroof ............................................................... $17.975 2008 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA 4D, 4X4, hardtop, NAV ........................................... $20,975 2006 JEEP LIBERTY LMTD 4X4, heated leather, moonroof ........................................ $10,975 2004 GMC YUKON SLT 4X4, heated leather, moonroof, DVD ......................................... $9,975

For more inventory go to: www.lagersinc.com

507-931-4070 or 1-800-657-4802 Hours: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-4

Mike Chmiel

Jared Skala

Dan Wegscheid

Jeff Brand

Jake Peymann

Thursday, March 26, 2015

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

PAGE 15

Lager’s

3.0 EcoDiesel, Tow Pkg., Back-up Camera, Satellite Radio, Bluetooth

#11212

#11239

MSRP: $38,975 • Discounts: $4,985 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

33,990

$

*

MSRP: $39,015 • Discounts: $7,030 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

31,985

$

#11124

$

22,938

*

V6, Leather Suede, Tow Pkg., Heated Seats, Back-up Camera

KETCHUP SALE PRICE

36,962

*

48,992

$

*

23,982

St. Peter

507-931-4070 • 800-657-4802 HOURS: Mon - Fri 8-6 | Sat 8-4

KETCHUP SALE PRICE

$

23,943

*

v6, Stow-n-Go Seating, PW, PDL, 7 Passenger

#11257 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

29,985

$

*

#11081

MSRP: $33,224 • Discounts: $3,228 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

$

29,996

*

Touring Pkg., Heated Seats, Remote Start, DVD, NAV, Back-up Camera

#11007

MSRP: $23,240 • Discounts: $2,250 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

MAKE & MODEL

MSRP: $27,285 • Discounts: $3,303

$

#11169

$

20,990

*

#11078

MSRP: $33,585 • Discounts: $5,593 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

$

27,992

**

ONLY 5 NEW 2014’s REMAINING! SAVE HUGE!

#11021 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

*

4 Cyl., Remote Start, Heated Seats, NAV

MSRP: $27,975 • Discounts: $4,032

MSRP: $32,665• Discounts: $2,680

20,975

$

Lager’s 910 Old Minnesota Ave.

KETCHUP SALE PRICE

3.6 V6, Auto, Heated Seats, Remote Start, 20” Wheels, NAV

V6, AWD, P. Seat, Sunscreen Glass, 4.3” Touch Screen, Satellite Radio

MSRP: $40,470 • Discounts: $3,508

$

*

MSRP: $25,145 • Discounts: $4,170

#11165 KETCHUP SALE PRICE

#11160

#11137

MSRP: $26,480 • Discounts: $3,542

4 Cyl. Auto, Leather, P. Seat, Remote Start, Back-up Camera

MSRP: $57,990 • Discounts: $8,998

4 Cyl. 9-Speed Auto, P. Seat, Back-up Camera, Satellite Radio

4 Cyl. Auto, 6.5” Touch Screen, Remote Start, Heated Seats, Satellite Radio

KETCHUP SALE PRICE

6.7 Cummins Diesel, Heated Seats/Steering Wheel, 5th Wheel Prep, Back-up Camera

5.7 Hemi, 4x4, 20” Chrome Wheels, Satellite Radio, Remote Entry

*

DODGE DART GT DODGE CHARGER SXT AWD DODGE JOURNEY SXT JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE SUMMIT JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LIMITED JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LIMITED RAM 2500 CREW LARAMIE

MSRP

$24,630 $35,780 $30,175 $56,375 $42,700 $43,795 $58,725

DISCOUNT

$5,643 $6,846 $7,185 $8,389 $5,715 $5,868 $12,731

KETCHUP SALE PRICE

SOLD! $18,987* $28,934* SOLD! $22,990* $47,986* $36,985* $37,927* $45,944*

*Includes rebates, discounts and finance cash. See salesperson for details.**Includes owner loyalty in addition to other incentives. See salesperson for details.

Jeep Mike Chmiel

Dan Wegscheid

Jeff Brand

Jared Skala

Jake Peymann

®

PAGE 16

ST. PETER PORTRAITS

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Nicollet County Bank Employees Give Back to their Community!

The Nicollet County Bank encourages its officers and employees to participate in community functions. During the year of 2015, the officers and employees will be involved with the following boards, committees, clubs and organizations.

Member of St. Peter Lions Club Member of St. Peter American Legion Club Member of Masonic Lodge Member of Osman Shrine Member of VFW Post 1220 Member of Linnaeus Arboretum GAC Member of Masonic Lodge #54 Director of Shoreland Country Club Member of St. Peter Ambassadors Member of St. Peter Rotary Club Treasurer of Greenlawn Cemetery Member of St. Peter Education Foundation St. Peter Lions Club Board Member St. Peter Area Hospice Committee, Co-Chair St. Peter Regional Treatment Center (SPRTC) VolunteerCouncil, Co-President Member of Gustavus Library Associates Member of St. Peter Chamber Public Affairs Committee Board Member of St. Peter Chamber of Commerce Member of Nicollet County Historical Society Member of Arts Center of St. Peter Member of St. Peter Food Co-op Member of Shoreland Country Club Board Member of St. Peter Basketball Booster Club/Treasurer

Volunteer SPHS Basketball Statistician Treasurer of SPHS Golf Booster Treasurer/Member of the Echos Big Band Member of Nicollet County Farm Bureau Member of Nicollet County Soybean Growers Assn.

Member Nicollet County Corn Growers Association Member Nicollet County Planning & Zoning Advisory Committee Director and Treasurer of St. Peter Sons of the American Legion Chairperson of St. Peter Education Foundation Member of Lake Washington Club Member of St. Peter Chamber of Commerce President of Nicollet County Holstein Association Member of RIM (Nicollet County) Advisory Committee for NRCS Member of MN Holstein Association Member of St. Peter Chamber Business/Education Committee Chairman Member of South Central Technical College Farm Business Management Advisory Committee Member of Sioux Trails Mental Health Service Advisory Board

www.nicolletcountybank.com

220 South Third Street • Telephone 931-3310 • St. Peter

Member of South Central College Center of Agriculture Advisory Committee Member of H.S. Agri-Science Advisory Committee Member of St. Peter High School Co-Curricular Committee Member U of M Southern Research & Outreach Center Advisory Committee Member of St. Peter Economic Development Agency Region 9 Development Loan Committee Board Member Charter Organization Representative for Troop 58 Member of St. Peter Catholic Women Member of MN Emergency Medical Services Assn.

Volunteer Religion Education teacher -Church of St. Peter Licensed foster care provider through Lutheran Social Services Member of Norseland Lutheran Church Ladies Aid Member of Nicollet County Pork Producers Alter Care & Funeral Committee of Trinity Lutheran Church

Like us on Facebook!