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GATEWAY TRAIL: Recreational route could extend to Scandia PAGE 3

Former NHL players flock to Stillwater festival

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

STILLWATER — On the weekend of Feb. 5-7, Stillwater will play host to the fi rst-ever Sticks in Stillwater mite hockey tournament. All of the games will played on outdoor rinks, located at the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center on Market Drive in Stillwater.

The games themselves are surrounded by an outdoor festival that includes food, music and evening events. The mite hockey tournament will take place throughout the weekend. The organizers have attracted about 50 teams to participate.

A number of former NHL professionals will be present at the festival, along with Stillwater real estate agent Jim Boo, who was coached by Herb Brooks as a player for the University of Minnesota and the North Stars. As a member of the Herb Brooks Foundation board, Boo is one of the organizers of the tournament.

‘The Herb Brooks Foundation does great work to broaden the base of hockey,” Boo said. The foundation sent invitations to mite teams hailing from South Dakota, Wisconsin, the Twin Cities and northern Minnesota.

Another 50 girls teams will be competing in the Skate for the Roses tournament the same weekend, sponsored by the Stillwater Hockey Association. While Skate for the Roses is not associated with the Herb Brooks Foundation event, it will be taking place at the indoor rink at the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center and the Lily Lake ice arena from Feb. 4-7.

“The event seems to be growing,” Boo said. “Our vision was to have it downtown, but instead we’re bringing the people downtown for events while having the tournament at the Rec Center. It seems to be a much better venue than trying to make our own rinks when we don’t know what the weather will be like.”

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Stephanie LeGros with sons James Kalmon (left) age 8, third grade, and Jack Kalmon (right) age 6, first grade.

‘Cotton is Rotten’ for Marine Elementary kids in Winter Warm-Up Challenge outside counts as a point; teachers take tallies after recess and add them to the total. A thermometer-shaped progress meter is on display in the school, slowly building toward the ultimate goal of 5,000 points.

The program is in its pilot stage, completing its first test run at Marine Elementary. The idea came from LeGros, who has a first-grader and a third-grader currently attending the school.

“We’re an outdoor family,” LeGros said. The Warm-Up Winter Challenge began when she noticed that school outdoor gear was not in good condition, and began submitting grant proposals to local organizations. With the funding supplied by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, Youth United Way and Marine School Association, she was able to

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

MARINE ON ST. CROIX — Marine Elementary has partnered with several local Stillwater organizations to encourage students to get active with outdoor winter activities at home and at school between Jan. 8 and Feb. 11.

Marine classes are participating in this Winter Warm-Up Challenge to spend time outdoors with class activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and simply playing outside at recess.

“It can even just be running around and playing tag,” said Marine Elementary parent Stephanie LeGros, who first introduced the idea to the school.

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purchase new snowshoes and other outdoor gear for school use, and also begin the Warm-Up Challenge with the help of PowerUp, the St. Croix Valley Ski Club, Stillwater Community Education, and Healthy Moves.

“My background is in outdoor education. This is really my passion, so it wasn’t too hard for me to pull together,” LeGros said.

LeGros has worked in outdoor education for 20 years, holding working as a park ranger for the National Park Service, an outdoor educator in the Boundary Waters and creating an outdoor education program for Dakota County Parks.

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JANUARY 29, 2016

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Preschoolers introduced to theater via podcast in new CLIMB Theatre series travels to schools around the Midwest presenting interactive learning productions to all different ages. Thanks to a recent grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, the podcast series “Faraway Woods” is bringing a new medium for learning into the classroom.

“It's another way to learn about behavioral skills in a fun, imaginary way,” CLIMB Outreach Conductor Cervantes said. “Radio leaves a lot of room for imagination that TV kind of doesn't.”

The emphasis of the podcasts is behavioral learning, as well as basic

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

NORTH BRANCH— The popularity of podcasts is on the rise, and you'd be surprised to hear where it's been growing—in Minnesota preschool classrooms.

CLIMB Theater is currently presenting a unique series of podcast lessons at Centerville Elementary, Rice Lake Elementary and North Branch Elementary schools.

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education about theater.

It is the first time CLIMB has used a podcast format to present its classes.

“Podcasting is a new technology that lets us use an old medium—radio drama,” Cervantes said. “The actor educators are using the podcast as a springboard for the class.”

Preschool classes spend time listening to each podcast lesson and, about once a week, a team of actor educators visits the school. Michael Ehrecke and Atim Opoka have been acting with CLIMB Theater since last summer, and they said the podcast format has presented a different kind of teaching opportunity for them.

“Other lessons have been more scripted, and a little more in the style of performance, whereas with this grant, we're merely facilitators. We're not flexing our acting chops so much, but passing it on to the next generation,” Ehrecke said.

Each lesson is themed to introduce particular prosocial lessons such as empathy and self-control.

“At that age their attention span is so little, so it's a different way of learning,” Opoka said.

Each lesson also contains an introduction

JACKIE BUSSJAEGER | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Michael Ehrecke (right) and Atim Opoka (left) work with children from Centerville Elementary on Jan. 19.

to theater and theater terms, including “actor,” “acting,” “play,” “playwright,” “character” and “set.” Particular lessons may focus on the use of voice and recognizing voice tones that indicate sadness, happiness and anger, or on constructing costumes or sets.

“Sometimes we're the first exposure to theater for these students,” Ehrecke said. “It kind of shows that creativity is within all of us; you don't

have to go to a big city to make theater. It's really egalitarian in that way.”

Since the podcast workshop is supported by a grant from the Minnesota Arts Board, preschoolers were assessed about their existing knowledge and will be assessed again to determine the impact of the lessons when they have completed them.

“That gives them some quantifiable data. At the end of a six-class cycle,

we'll do an evaluation to see what they retained,” Opoka said. “The first workshop was to get a feel for what they knew already.”

The podcast lessons will continue to be taught to preschoolers through the spring, and in March it will become available to the public online and on iTunes. To learn more about programs offered

by CLIMB Theater, visit its website at www.climb. org.

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And the beat goes on and on Stillwater becomes a Heart Safe Community

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Stillwater Mayor Ted Kozlowski proudly accepted two shiny new Department of Transportation signs to place at prominent entrances to the city, proclaiming the city to be a Heart Safe Community. Kim Harkins, program manager for the Minnesota Resuscitation Consortium, presented the signs to the city at the Jan. 19 meeting after Stillwater qualified for the Heart Safe designation.

Fire Chief Stu Glaser said he was approached a year ago last July by a cardiac arrest survivor who convinced him to pursue Heart Safe status for the city. Since that time the city has trained more than 10 percent of its population to use the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The goal of the Heart Safe program is to train 10 percent of Minnesota's population to use the AED. An AED is a device approximately the size of a lunch box that gives a bystander directions on how and when to administer chest compressions to a victim of sudden cardiac arrest and, if needed, delivers an electric charge to stimulate the heart of the victim.

Ideally, an AED can be conveniently located in any public space. The ease in which an available AED can be located in case of an emergency depends on the commitment and awareness of the community.

Harkins and the MN Resuscitation Consortium recognized Stillwater as such a community. The city has “gone through enormous works to get to this point largely through the efforts of its fire department,” she said. “Stillwater had to achieve 600 heartbeats (citizens trained to use the AED) and achieved 1,075 — well over the number of heartbeats needed to qualify.”

The city has also conducted community awareness events. An AED awareness campaign during Night to Unite last summer reached 3,000 citizens.

The goal of the MN Resuscitation Consortium, based at the University of Minnesota, is to increase

survival after cardiac arrest, and early AED placement at the community level is a needed way for communities to strive toward that goal, Harkins said.

The campaign to place AED's in communities and educate citizens on how to use them began in 2002 at the Allina Hospital and Clinics.

Because responders trained in the AED can double or triple the victim's chance of survival, the consortium has identified AEDs in each community and put them on a map so that first responders can be aware of where the devices are. There is a strong plan afoot to keep training citizens of Stillwater and to work on AED placement, Harkins said.

The consortium's website at www.cardiology.umn. edu/sections/mrc/ has a Minnesota AED registry with an eventual goal to produce an application, so that first responders can find the nearest device on their phones. The website also shows providers of AED's how to replace a battery. Apps are also available to send low battery alerts to AED providers so they always know their AEDs are up and running.

Members of the public interested in learning CPR can also visit the website to learn how to begin.

In other action, the council: Unanimously approved (councilmembers Tom Weidner and Mike Polehna were absent) the 20 Downtown Plan Advisory Committee members, as part of the Downtown Plan Update. The committee will serve for approximately one year, beginning in February or March, Community Development Director Bill Turnblad said. Under the guidance of a team of consultants, the committee will evaluate various materials and offer advice as work progresses on updating the Downtown Plan, he said.

Approved the Downtown Plan recommendation of SRF, a local consulting firm, to assist with the update of the Downtown Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan.

The city received three proposals and will authorize SEE STILLWATER HEART SAFE COMMUNITY, PAGE 14

JANUARY 29, 2016

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3

Hile aims for congressional public office despite ASL language barrier

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

Brian Hile's name should be familiar—he ran for Forest Lake mayor in 2012 and 2014. Despite having never won an election, Hile now has his sights set on Congress—but for a deaf man, it's no walk in the park.

Hile ran for the office in 2014 and lost to current mayor Stev Stegner, 4,845 to 1,224. Before that, he ran for office in two other races. He is now in the process of filing for candidacy for Minnesota's 6th Congressional District, representing Anoka, Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, Wright and Washington counties, but he is finding it difficult to find a party to back him.

“I have attempted to get help from the Democratic Party, Republican Party and Independence Party,” he said. “They all decided not endorse me because they are helping another person who is interested in running for election for the office. So I have decided to make myself a Free America representative, so that I would be able to provide some balance between the Democratic Party and the Republican Party because there has been war between those parties.”

Hile was born deaf and speaks American Sign Language to communicate. He was adopted by Mary and David Hile, and has a few other relatives in his family who are deaf. While living in Plymouth, Minnesota, he ran for city council in 2010, but did not win the election. He moved to Forest Lake shortly afterward and found a real connection with the community, inspiring him to run for mayor. He said that he has learned a lot from the three campaigns he has run, and believes that he will have a bigger impact on economic decisions that would reduce national debt.

To date, no deaf person has held an elected position in U.S. Congress. Mojo Mathers, who is currently a member of the New Zealand House of Representatives, is one of the only other deaf contemporaries to hold public office at a national level. Her story is rare, but she has held the position since 2011, and the New Zealand government has found ways to work with her needs.

“I think they have never had a deaf person in [U.S.] public office before and I think they are scared and afraid of us,” Hile said. “I want to win so I can prove to them that we are not a threat to them; that we are good and very friendly and that they would like to work with us.”

Hile said that the solution to the ASL/English language barrier is only “too easy” to solve: the presence

JACKIE BUSSJAEGER | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Forest Lake resident Brian Hile has announced his intent to run for 6th District Congressional Representative in 2016.

of an interpreter could serve to facilitate most responsibilities of the office.

“Let's say if I win a Congress seat, I would request a full-time interpreter to work there with me. According to the American Disability Acts Law, the government is required to provide one at their expense.

I think they want to deny my application … because they don't want to pay for an interpreter. That might be the reason, but they can afford to get one.”

Hile admits that he comes from a position of very little political experience, but he said he is invested in the well-being of the community. He has not disclosed his current place of employment, but assures that he has the capability to learn and adjust to life in office, especially given his insights as the son of a Hennepin

Gateway Trail could extend to Scandia

BY AUNDREA KINNEY CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Gateway State Trail currently runs 18 miles between St. Paul and Pine Point County Park. According to Kent Skaar, Senior Project Manager for Minnesota state trail projects, this portion of the trail was developed very quickly because it was on railroad grade, but additional progress has been at a near standstill for almost two decades — until now.

Preliminary plans have been made to extend the Gateway Trail between Pine Point and William O’Brien State Park.

“We have now secured a corridor from downtown Scandia to the north edge of William O’Brien, so that provides the opportunity to get there,” Skaar said.

Additional planning still needs to be completed to determine exactly how the trail will snake through William O’Brien State Park, but when this trail connection is made it will form a network with the other trails already linked to the park, and in this way it will affect existing Marine trails.

“We need to make sure we are cognizant of what it would mean to the Marine trails; there are maintenance costs and all of that too,” said Council Member Bill Miller.

The next step for Skaar and council members is to examine the opportunities in Marine.

“There are a number of methods by which we could work with the community but typically with publicly owned properties like that it would be an agreement between the state and the community for the placement of the trail with the community playing a significant role, obviously, with where it is placed and how it functions,” Skaar said.

He recommends quarterly meetings with the council to continue discussing what it means to bring the Gateway through Marine and what opportunities exist for trail placement in the community.

“This is a big step for us,” Miller said. “I know we’re in no hurry, which is wonderful, so we can have time to plan for this, but it will be a significant impact to this city having a really wonderful trail connect through.” “[I am] excited certainly about the opportunity to connect the park to Scandia and certainly the community of Marine as well,” Skaar said.

County police officer. Hile believes that the cuts to the Forest Lake police department could have been handled much more effectively, and this is one of a few issues that inspired Hile to run for mayor in the first place. He outlined a few more of his potential ideas.

“I feel that the city needs to improve; to become more clean and beautiful,” Hile said. “The police officers do a good job of keeping the city safe, but the only thing that needs to improve is the budget and remodeling the city to make it look much cleaner and better and more healthy.” He pointed to the issue of not enough road lighting in some parts of the city, and expressed dissatisfaction toward the cost of construction on the new Y. He also said that the city should own revenue-producing businesses, such as apartment buildings, to provide another source of funding that could prevent harsh city pay and employment cuts.

Political transparency is one of Hile's largest concerns; he said that seeing a lack of disclosure in Tom Emmer's career is part of what inspired him to aim for a Congressional office.

“He did not keep his registered voters posted on what happened. So I felt that I wanted to give it a try,” Hile said.

Hile is determined to submit his congressional candidacy. His next step is to collect signatures from 1,000 registered voters between May 17 and May 31.

He hopes to collect enough votes, but in the event that he does not, he said that he will likely run for Forest Lake mayor again for the 2016 election. He encourages interested voters to contact him at brian_hile2000@ yahoo.com with the subject line “Brian Hile candidate for U.S. Congress: questions.”

“I ask residents of the 6th District area to give me a chance to provide some proof that I can perform the job in U.S. Congress, even if I am deaf,” he said.

In the meantime, he continues to explore ways to enhance the Forest Lake community.

“I meet people, discuss with them to find out about their lifestyle and their budget to see if we can find a way to make it much better, that would make them happier and more flexible with their budget. I want to meet with everyone to find out what kind of help they need so I can work on making a proposal after finding a way that would provide what they seek. Of course it probably will not pass the bill, but I want to work with them because those registered voters are the boss,” he said.

4

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Haitian hope

M

y souvenir from Haiti hangs precariously from a command hook on my bookshelf.

It is a broken bottle remade into a Christmas ornament, adorned with a purple clay bead and an engraved word in a piece of thin metal – HOPE. I bought it from an orphanage for $10, as a way to support their efforts to care for abandoned children.

But it has become a symbol of my trip there over the holiday.

Hope is one of the most fragile and strong feelings in the world. And perhaps one of the best.

I went to Haiti on a mission trip to volunteer. The church group I was with planted trees in Haitian homes, assisted in construction of Story a church building and gave free haircuts. You could say we went to Chaser Haiti to offer hope.

But the truth is that the HaiSara Marie Moore tians gave the volunteer team just as much hope. H Hope is one thing that defies the Huhh man Development Index, a United Nations ranking system of a country’s human development. Some of the most “developed” nations in the world also have the highest amount of hopelessness – evidenced by suicide and clinical depression rates.

The hope the team gave was that the Haitian church is not alone – that their brothers and sisters in America want to share their material prosperity with them. But the hope Haitians gave in return was perhaps the better one – the hope that you don’t need great material possessions to be happy.

The leader of the trip, who has worked in Haiti for about five years, shared with the team his annoyance with the world’s news coverage of Haiti.

Almost always Haiti is abruptly described as the poorest nation in the Western hemisphere, no matter what the article is about.

But when he comes to Haiti, he comes face-to-face with his own spiritual poverty. The faith of the Haitians he meets astounds him. He wants some of it for himself. And they share it with him.

What the Haitians shared with me was hope.

Art made out of what some would consider trash brought me face-to-face with my own materialistic poverty.

I’m a crafter. The fabric, the trim, the beads, the colors, the styling, the angle, the composition – I crave for perfection and seamless beauty in my designs. But something about the pure imperfection of a design made out of a broken bottle gives me what it proclaims – HOPE. Hope that my art doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. Hope that art is one of the most powerful communication tools in the world. Hope that the ability to create has been given to all of the Creator’s peoples, no matter how many craft stores are around the corner. Hope that I don’t need a lot of money to be an artist.

Next Christmas I’ll pull my Haitian hope ornament out of storage and put it on my bookshelf again, just below the nativity. I’ll think about how Christ was born into a poor family and had a manger for a bed, but that He didn’t let that stop Him from giving hope to the world.

I’ll think about how I want to create hope-filled art for the world, and I’ll gather hope from Him and the Haitians that a lot can be done with a little.

And I’ll remember the greatest hope Christ gave when He was born in that lowly stable – a chance to know God. Sara Marie Moore is writer/ reporter for the Quad Community Press and the Shoreview Press.

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Drinking dinosaur pee

A

long, long time ago, a young diplodocus stood on the edge of a vast swamp. Looking around watchfully to ensure no allosauruses were nearby, it bowed its long, graceful neck and took a loud, sloppy slurp of fresh pond water. Lumbering off towards the forest, the giant sauropod paused at the edge of a clearing, and then it peed a thundering waterfall of pee that came down so hard it flattened a fern.

Movers and Over time, some of the pee evaporated Shakers and some soaked into the ground, Angie Hong mixing together with the ancient pee from other dinosaurs. 153 million years later, you walked over to the sink, turned on the faucet, and got yourself a nice big glass of ice-cold diplodocus pee to drink.

In the best seller, "The Big Thirst," reporter and author Charles Fishman writes that, “The water coming out of your kitchen tap is four billion years old and might well have been sipped by a Tyrannosaurus rex.” Before you spit out that swig of Evian, however, take solace in this analysis from Jon Tennant, a paleontologist, who told the Earth Touch News Network that there’s no real way of knowing what percentage of the water we drink passed through a dinosaur’s kidneys. “At certain points there were loads of big dinosaurs [in the world], and at different points loads of small ones, and sometimes, very few of either." Furthermore, he goes on to explain that the total amount of water on earth actually hasn’t remained constant throughout all time. Even so, there is still a really good chance you just brushed your teeth with dinosaur pee.

Though 71 percent of the earth’s surface is covered in water, we know that only 3 percent of that water is freshwater. Of that 3 percent,

69 percent is frozen in icecaps and glaciers where it is inaccessible to us, and 30 percent is buried underground. So, only 0.009 percent of the water on earth is freshwater, flowing through rivers, lakes and wetlands. All of the water that is on earth stays here on earth (that’s why we’re drinking dinosaur pee), but freshwater doesn’t necessarily stay fresh, and clean water doesn’t always stay clean.

According to UN Water, 85 percent of the world's population lives in the driest parts of the planet. 783 million people do not have access to clean water and almost 2.5 billion do not have access to adequate sanitation. Freshwater resources are used for irrigation and food production – a huge pressure as the world’s population increases – and treating wastewater requires significant amounts of energy. In fact, the amount of energy needed to treat wastewater is expected to increase globally by 44 percent by 2030 (from 2006 levels). Meanwhile, in developing countries without wastewater treatment facilities, up to 90 percent of wastewater flows untreated into rivers, lakes and oceans.

Even in Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, groundwater modeling conducted by the Metropolitan Council indicates that our current water use is unsustainable. The aquifers that supply 70 percent of Minnesotans with drinking water are becoming depleted, the Met Council warns, and many lakes, streams and wetlands are already suffering as a result. The average Twin Cities resident uses 125 gallons of water each day (2010 data). Communities in Washington County using less than 100 gallons of water per person, per day include Lake St. Croix Beach, Lakeland, Lakeland Shores and Newport. Meanwhile, Oak Park Heights is the lone city in the county using more than 150 gallons of water per person per day.

Though rainwater eventually recharges aquifers, less than 10 percent of the annual rainfall in the Twin Cities works its way

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through the soils to replenish our groundwater. Bigger rooftops, wider roads, and larger parking lots mean more impervious surfaces where rainwater cannot soak in.

We all share a responsibility for conserving our freshwater resources and everyone can make changes in their lifestyles to use less water, whether you rent an apartment or own a home.

Switching to new, water-efficient appliances saves water as well as energy because it takes energy to obtain water and heat water for household use. Look for WaterSense labels, which indicate products certified by the US EPA. Using less water and less energy also translates into lower heat and water bills for you. Fixing leaks is an equally important – and nearly free - way to conserve water. One leaky faucet dripping one drop per second wastes 2,082 gallons of water per year, which is the same as leaving the shower running for almost 14 hours! Find more tips for household water conservation at: http://www.metrocouncil.org/ Wastewater-Water/Planning/ Water-Supply-Planning/Guidance-Planning-Tools/Water-Conservation.aspx.

The gift of fresh water has been passed down to us from generation to generation and even species to species. Let’s take good care of our water, even if we know it’s diplodocus pee, so that we can give the same gift to future generations.

Angie Hong is an educator for East Metro Water - www.mnwcd. org/emwrep - which includes Brown’s Creek, Carnelian Marine - St. Croix, Comfort Lake – Forest Lake, Middle St. Croix, Ramsey Washington-Metro, Rice Creek, South Washington and Valley Branch Watersheds, Cottage Grove, Dellwood, Forest Lake, Grant, Lake Elmo, Newport, Stillwater, West Lakeland, Willernie and Woodbury, Washington County and the Washington Conservation District.

Contact her at 651-330-8220 x.35 or angie.hong@mnwcd.org

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UP NORTH ARCHERY LESSONS

When: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29 Where: Bow Daddy Archery, 801 MN-65, Suide D, Isanti Details: Learn about archery through Forest Lake Community Education. $39; ages 7+.

Contact: 651-982-8110 or forestlake.ce.feepay.com

AARP TAXAIDE

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Feb. 1 to April 15 Where: Forest Hills Methodist Church, 1790 11th St. SE, Forest Lake Details: Free tax preparation for seniors and low-income residents on a fi rst-come, fi rstserved basis. Bring a photo ID, Social Security card and income, expense and health insurance documents (if obtained through Mnsure).

Contact: aarp.org/ money/taxes/aarp_ taxaide

CAREER SUCCESS PROGRAM FOR TEENS

When: 6-8 p.m.

Tuesdays, Feb. 2, 9, 16 & 23 Where: Lakes Area Youth Service Bureau, 244 North Lake St., Forest Lake Details: Free program in partnership with Junior Achievement that equips students in grades 8-12 with tools and skills required to earn and keep a job. Learn personal-brand and job hunting tools, developing strong soft skills, work priorities, and more.

Contact: 651-464-3685 or ysblakesarea.org

MU DAIKO PERFORMANCE

When: 1:30 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 7 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Blvd., Forest Lake Details: Twin Citiesbased professional taiko drumming ensemble performs a variety of traditional and contemporary works, ranging from traditional taiko repertoire to original pieces composed by members. Free.

Contact: 651-731-1320 or co.washington.mn.us/ library

FINE ART SALE

When: 8 a.m.-noon Sunday, Feb. 14 & 21 Where: Hosanna Lutheran Church, 9300 Scandia Trail N., Forest Lake Details: Proceeds benefit an upcoming multi-faith Feed My Starving Children event.

Contact: 651-464-5502

‘THAT’S WHAT EYE SAW’ ART SHOW When: 4-8 p.m. Fridays; noon-4 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 21-Feb. 15 Where: Hallberg

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Center for the Arts, 5521 East Viking Blvd., Wyoming Details: Photographic retrospective by 15 regional artists.

Contact: wyomingcreativearts.org

JANUARY 29, 2016

ordinary gardens through the placement of objects in the landscape.

Free, but reservations required.

Contact: 651-436-8080 or squirehousegardens. com

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME WOMAN’S READING CLUB When: 10:30-11

a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Children preschool through kindergarten age and caregivers hear stories, sing songs, and watch finger plays to encourage early literacy skills.

Contact: 651-275-7300

FAMILY STORYTIME

When: 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 1 Where: St. Paul Lutheran Church, 609 5th St. S., Stillwater Details: Featured entertainers are award-winning Debbie Schreyer and the Banjo Belle Jazz Band. Guests welcome.

Contact: 651-439-2131

TEEN BOOK CLUB

When: 4-5 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 1 When: 10:30-11 a.m.

Where: Stillwater Saturdays Public Library, Where: Hardwood Margaret Rivers room, Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake 224 Third St. N. Details: Teens in Details: For children grades 7-9 can bring ages 2 and up and their a book to discuss, see families. Stories, songs what others are reading, and fingerplays. chat, play games and Contact: 651-275-7300 meet new friends.

Registration requested.

WINTER STORYTIME Contact: 651-275-4338 When: 10:30 a.m. or stillwaterlibrary.org Tuesdays, Feb. 2-Mar. 8 Where: Wyoming Area Library, 26855 Forest.

ST. CROIX CATHOLIC Blvd.

SCHOOL GALA Details: Stories, songs When: 6 p.m. Thursday, and fingerplays for Feb. 4 preschoolers ages 3-5.

Where: St. Michael’s Contact: 651-462-9001 Social Hall, 621 Third St. S., Stillwater Details: ‘Light Their OUT EAST Way’ fundraiser supports tuition assistance and includes open bar and THE STILLWATER social hour, gourmet SAMPLER When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, dinner, video, and guest speaker Gail Dorn, Jan. 29 Where: Grand Banquet president of the newly formed Catholic Schools Hall, 301 2nd St. S., Center of Excellence Stillwater (CSCOE) and formerly Details: Fundraiser a senior executive with for the pilot program, Target Corporation.

‘Music Means More’, a Ticket $250 per seat, in partnership between advance. the Stilwater Schools Contact: 651-439-5581 or and Stillwater Rotary stcroixcatholic.org to infuse more music into classrooms.

Event featured food TEXTILE CENTER: by many of the area’s INTRODUCTORY best restaurants, WET FELTING complimentary wine, When: 10:15 a.m.-12:15 cash bar, raffle, p.m. Friday, Feb. 5 silent auction, and Where: Stillwater entertainment. Tickets Library, storytime room, $50.

224 Third St. N. Contact: 651-439-7672 or Details: Adults can stillwatersampler.com learn wet felting to make soap stones. Registration required.

5TH ANNUAL TOM Contact: 651-275-4338 JOHNSON CRIBBAGE x111 or stillwaterlibrary.

TOURNAMENT org When: 1-3:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 30 Where: Stillwater Elks TAKE YOUR CHILD Club, 5880 Omaha Ave. N. TO THE LIBRARY DAY Details: $20/person, When: 10-11:30 a.m.

10 games played, $15 Saturday, Feb. 6 paid out in prizes. $5 Where: Stillwater from each to Scholarship Public Library, 224 Third Fund.

St. N. Contact: 651-439-5276 Details: “Favorite book” project with TALK AND TEA: ArtStart at 10:30 a.m.

‘GARDEN STRUCTURES Make a bookmark, give AND ORNAMENTS’ the prize wheel a spin, When: 1 and 3 p.m. try our scavenger hunt, Saturday, Jan. 30 sign up for a library card Where: Squire House and check out books. No Gardens, 3390 St. Croix registration is required.

Trail S., Afton Contact: 651-275-4338 x Details: Discussion 111 or stillwaterlibrary. of how to transform org

SUBMITTEDD

3rd Annual ‘The Older the Better’ Vintage Snowmobile Event WHEN:

9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6

WHERE:

Withrow Ballroom & Event Center, 12169 Keystone Ave. N., Withrow

SNOWSHOE LESSONS

When: 1-2:15 p.m. and 2:30-3:45 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 7 Where: Lake Elmo Park Reserve, 1515 Keats Ave. N., Lake Elmo Details: Experience snowshoeing, led by a naturalist from Warner Nature Center. $5 per person includes rental. Ages 9 and up.

Registration required.

Contact: 651-430-8370

AARP TAXAIDE

When: By appointment, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Mondays and Tuesdays and 9:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, Feb. 8 through April 13 Where: Community Thread, 2300 Orleans St. W., Stillwater Details: Free tax preparation for seniors and low-income residents.

Bring a photo ID, Social Security card and income, expense and health insurance documents (if obtained through Mnsure).

Contact: 651-439-7434

ST. CROIX VALLEY RUNNERS-TRAINING RUNS

When: 8 a.m. Saturday mornings Where: Meet at Brown’s Creek Park, Neal Ave. and McKusick Rd. Details: Group is looking for runners planning to run a marathon to join them on long runs.

Contact: scvalleyrunners@gmail. com

STOMP OUT DIABETES

When: 6-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 9 Where: Stillwater Medical Group Specialty Clinic, 1500 Curve Crest Blvd., Stillwater

DETAILS:

See old sleds and support the Stillwater Snowmobile Club.

Free admission for spectators. $5 entry fee per sled. Noon-1 p.m. sled ride. Trophies, cash raffle and door

Details: Lakeview Hospital diabetes and nutrition educators discuss steps to reduce risk of type 2 diabetes. $20, advance registration required.

Contact: 651-430-8715 or lakeviewhealth.org/ classes

prizes. Food and drinks available for purchase.

CONTACT:

stillwatersnowmobile club.org

Contact: 651-275-4338 or stillwaterlibrary.org

SELLING OR BUYING A BUSINESS

When: 11 a.m.-noon Thursday, Feb. 11 Where: Anderson Legal Services, 226 Myrtle St. E., Stillwater Details: Free seminar PRESCHOOL STORYTIME to learn about selling AND VALENTINE CRAFT or buying a business.

When: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Registration required.

Contact: 651-439-4001 Wednesday, Feb. 10 or greaterstillwater Where: Stillwater Public Library, storytime chamber.com room, 224 Third St. N. Details: Chirldren up CONNECT THE DOTS to kindergarten age can When: 10 a.m.-noon make a ‘love’-themed Saturday, Feb. 13 craft following preschool Where: Community storytime. Presented by Thread, 2300 Orleans St. Stillwater ECFE. W., Stillwater Contact: 651-275-4338 or Details: Communitystillwaterlibrary.org wide event for volunteers of all ages, especially families, to teach the LEARNING TABLE value of volunteerism to LUNCHEON children and assemble When: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 supplies for local nonp.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10 profits. Stop by for a few Where: The Loft at minutes of the whole Studio J, 214 Main St., time. No registration Stillwater Details: Local business necessary. Supervision required for children 12 leaders share success and under. stories; this month’s Contact: 651-439-7434 or guest speaker is Judd communitythreadmn.org Sather. Chambersponsored event is open to the public; preWINTER BLIZZARD registration mandatory. BLAST Early-bird registration When: 1-5 p.m. $20/members, $30/nonSaturday, Feb. 13 members by 1/31.

Where: Warner Nature Contact: Center, 15375 Norell Ave. greaterstillwater N., Marine on St. Croix chamber.com Details: Families can explore forest and GET PAST YOUR FEAR prairies on a guided OF THE BLANK PAGE snowshoe hike, kicksled When: 6:30-8 p.m. on Terrapin Lake, play Wednesday, Feb. 10 games on ice and enjoy Where: Stillwater hot cocoa and s’mores Public Library, 224 Third around a fi re. $5/adults; St. N. $3/children 3-12; 2 and Details: Be guided under free. Pay at the through proven exercises door. to break through writer’s Contact: 651-433-2427 block by an instructor x 10 who has been there.

JANUARY 29, 2016

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FAMILY TO FAMILY COURSE ON MENTAL ILLNESS

When: 6:30-9 p.m.

Wednesdays, Feb. 3Apr 20 Where: WBLAHS South Campus, 3551 McKnight Rd. N., White Bear Lake Details: Free course helps families gain a greater understanding of mental illness, discuss resources, build communication skills, reduce stress and find support. Led by instructors who have a family member with a mental illness.

Registration required.

Contact: 651-407-8616

SOLAR POWER HOUR PRESENTATION

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White Bear Lake Polar Plunge WHEN: Noon Saturday, Jan. 30

WHERE: Ramsey Beach, 5050 Lake Ave. N.

DETAILS: Kickoff party

4-7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29 at Jimmy’s includes

NEIGHBORHOODS NEARBY ‘TIS A PUZZLEMENT: THE JOYS OF FUGALITY’

When: 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 29 Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi Details: Concert/ talk featuring internationally-known pianist and composer Peter Arnstein, performing works by Bach, Barber, Schubert, and Arnstein. Reception follows. Free admission.

Contact: peterarnstein.com

SCANDIA VINTERFEST

When: Friday, Jan. 29 and Saturday, Jan. 30 Where: Throughout Scandia Details: Saturday events include Lion’s Pancake Breakfast, 8-11:30 a.m.; Snow Sculpture Contest, 10 a.m.-noon; Vintage Snowmobile Show, 9:30 a.m. On Big Marine Lake; Vinterfishing ice fishing contest, 1-4 p.m.

On Goose Lake; Pleasant Valley Cloggers at 3 & 4 p.m.; Meister’s Mite Hockey Jamboree; Fireworks, 7 p.m. To register for the ‘Scanley Cup’ adult hockey tournament, call 651-755-6401 Contact: ci.scandia. mn.us

LEGO MANIA!

When: 10-11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 30

registration, free meal for plungers who RSVP in advance, and Special Olympics Minnesota speaker. Jimmy’s is located at 1132 E. County Rd. E, Vadnais Heights. Day of event check-in from 10 a.m.-1

Where: Wildwood Library, 763 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi Details: Children 6 and up can bring their imaginations and use the library’s bricks to build and create, or enter participate in one of the contests. Preregistration required.

Contact: 651-426-2042 or co.washington.mn.us/ library

16TH ANNUAL SNOW DAY

When: 1-4 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 30 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Free family event with ongoing activities including ice fishing, cross-country skiing, Norwegian kicksledding, snowshoeing and more.

Also crafts, activities, refreshments and live animal presentations at 2 and 3 p.m.

Contact: 651-429-8007 or anokacounty.us

PETER MAYER CONCERT

When: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 30 Where: White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church, 328 Maple St., Mahtomedi Details: Folk singer performs songs about interconnectedness and the human journey.

Tickets from $20.

Contact: wbuuc. eventbrite.com

27TH ANNUAL

p.m. At Ramsey Beach.

All proceeds benefit Special Olympics Minnesota.

CONTACT: plungemn.

org/events/white-bearlake

JAZZ FESTIVAL

When: 8 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 30 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 31 Where: Century College, West Campus Theatre Details: Featured guest artist is jazz trumpeter and composer Randy Brecker, a fivetime Grammy Award winner. Musicians Joel Shapira and Charmin Michelle will perform during pre-concert receptions, one hour prior to both concerts.

Complimentary beverages, cheese and dessert. Tickets $20/ adults; $10/students.

Contact: century.edu

ST. PAUL CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan 31 Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi Details: Performing works by Beethoven and Shostakovich.

Contact: 651-291-1144

SCC ORIENTATION SESSION

When: 7-8:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 1 and Thursday, Feb. 18 Where: Suburban Community Channels, 2460 East County Rd. F, White Bear Lake Details: Free class tells all about public access and how to be involved as a viewer, volunteer or producer.

Contact: 651-747-3830 or rwcable.com

When: 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 3 Where: White Bear Country Inn, 4940 Highway 61 Details: Discover the benefits of solar energy for your business, home or farm. Onehour presentation discusses solar market trends, describes the basic components of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, outlines the evaluation process for installing solar PV, and introduces incentive options and economic benefits.

Contact: whitebearlake.org

THE LOWDOWN

course, hospitality tent, food and entertainment.

Official Winter Carnival event. Community dance is at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5 at the White Bear Country Inn. Contact: bearlyopen. org

SPARKLE PARADE

When: 1 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6 Where: Ramsey Beach, White Bear Lake Details: Parade celebrates the opening day of the Art Shanty Projects on White Bear Lake. Wear sparkly clothing and outerwear.

All ages, under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org

ART SHANTY PROJECT ON WHITE BEAR LAKE

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays, Feb. 6-28 Where: White Bear Lake Details: Artists create shanties on the frozen lake to showcase art, from knitting to science to karaoke. Free and open to the public.

Contact: artshantyprojects.org

KEEPING THE CABIN/ FARM IN THE FAMILY

When: 6:30-8 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 8 Where: District Education Center, room 103, 1520 Mahtomedi ‘HOW SECULAR CULTURE SHAPES THE Ave., Mahtomedi Details: Learn how YOUTH’ to keep your cabin, When: Thursday, farm or business in the Feb. 4 family without creating Where: Liberty a family conflict. Randy Classical Academy, 3878 Rhealt will discuss Highland Ave., White ways to ensure your Bear Lake children receive equal Details: Devin Foley, co-founder and president inheritance, the impact of taxes and how to of Intellectual Takeout, properly position your who will discuss the underlying philosophy of assets for the next generation. today’s secular culture, Contact: the impact on youth Mahtomedicomed.com and what it means for families.

Contact: 651-772-2777 PSEO INFORMATION or libertyclassical NIGHT academy.org When: 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9 Where: Century PAT DONAHUE College, East Campus, AND THE PRAIRIE ALL STARS WITH Lincoln Mall, 3300 BUTCH THOMPSON Century Ave. N. Details: High school When: 7:30 p.m. sophomores, juniors and Friday, Feb. 5 seniors can learn how to Where: Chautauqua earn free college credits Fine Arts Center, 8000 while in high school.

75th St. N., Mahtomedi Session covers, program Details: Evening of guidelines, admission blues, swing, R & B, requirements, and original tunes, application process and sponsored by the FAQ’s. Register online.

Wildwood Artist Series.

Contact: century.edu/ Tickets $20/adults; $15/ events seniors; $12/students.

Contact: 651-269-9888 or wildwoodartistseries. ‘AGNES OF GOD’ com When: 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 11, BEAR’LY OPEN Friday, Feb. 12 and When: Noon Saturday, Saturday, Feb. 13 Feb. 6 Where: Century Where: Ramsey College West Theatre Beach, White Bear Lake Details: Story of Details: Annual golf a novice nun who on ice event benefits gives birth to a child the White Bear Area brings religion, belief Emergency Food Shelf. and psychology to the Open to all ages. 18-hole forefront.

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Contact: 651-747-4059 or century.edu

SWEETHEART DANCE

When: 6:30-8 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 12 Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N. Details: Kids can dress up and bring a special adult to the dance. DJ, crafts, and treats. $6/resident; $7/ non-resident.

Contact: 651-490-4750 or shoreviewcommunty center.com

MINDFULNESS CLASS

When: 6-7 p.m.

Tuesdays, Feb. 16-Mar. 8 Where: Northeast Youth & Family Services, 1280 North Birch Lake Blvd., White Bear Lake Details: Learn how being in a state of active, open attention on the present can reduce anxiety, increase focus and improve relationships with yourself and people around you. $40 for the series.

Contact: 651-429-8544 or nyfs.org

TASTE OF SHOREVIEW

When: 5-9 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 18 Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N. Details: 6th Annual Fundraiser kicks off the 2016 Slice of Shoreview events. Evening includes sampling of food from Shoreview area restaurants, wine tasting, raffles, live auction and more.

Advance tickets $20 or $35 for two; $25 each or $40 for two at the door.

Contact: sliceofshoreview.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING GUIDELINES

Anyone in the community may send us news of an upcoming local event. The calendar is reserved for secular community events in or adjacent to Press Publication’s coverage area. Priority is given to free or affordable events that are likely to appeal to a broad audience. Due to space limitations, there is no guarantee whether, when or for how long submissions will be published. Submissions are subject to editing.

Please include date, time, location, cost, brief details, and contact information for each event submission. Submission deadline is Wednesday prior to the following weeks’ publication.

Call 651-407-1226 with questions.

Email: calendar@ presspubs.com Mail: Press Publications Attn: Calendar 4779 Bloom Ave. White Bear Lake, MN 55110

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&

THE LOWDOWN

The Forest Lake Police Department reported the following incidents:

Theft • A burglary involving a gun took place at Mill Pond Apartments on 4th St. Sw on Jan. 13. Through investigation police were able to recover the handgun stolen and make an arrest of a juvenile on first degree burglary charges.i • A worker at Edina Realty on Broadway Avenue reported that someone broke into the business the weekend prior to Jan. 18 and stole between $80 and $100. Police were sent to investigate and found that access may have been gained via a door on the north side of the building.

The lock appeared to have been drilled. An

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initial inventory found that a mag of miscellaneous coins and change was missing from an employee’s desk, with an estimated value of $80-$100.

There are no suspects at this time.

Arrest/Citation • An officer was entering the Holiday gas station on Broadway Avenue on Jan. 18 when he recognized an 18-year-old Marine on St. Croix man who had two Washington County warrants out for his arrest for disturbing the peace. The officer observed the suspect get into the passenger side of a vehicle which left the Holiday station onto 12th Street NW northbound.The officer followed and initiated a traffic stop.

The suspect was taken

into custody without incident and The driver of the vehicle, a 20-year-old Wyoming woman, was issued a citation for driving without a valid drivers license.

• An unwanted male was reported on the 800 block of 10th Avenue SE on Jan. 17. Police arrived and detained a violent, 35-year-old Forest Lake man, who was refusing to leave a residence and making violent threats. The suspect was taken into custody, and a glass meth bubble pipe was found in his vehicle.

The man was booked for obstruction of justice and fifth degree possession of a controlled substance.

• On Jan. 17, a 55-yearold White Bear Lake woman was arrested for fourth degree DWI on Scandia Trail

North near Ideal Avenue. She was taken to the Forest Lake Police Department, and her breath test resulted in a .13.

• Officers responded to a drunk driver complaint at the Moto Mart on Lake Street on Jan. 15. A 41-year-old Blaine man was arrested for third degree DWI and transported to the police department. He refused to provide a breath sample.

The Stillwater Police Department reported the following incidents:

Arrest/Citation • An unwanted male was reported on Curve Crest Boulevard at 1:01 a.m. on Jan. 12.

Police found that the individual had a felony warrant out for his

JANUARY 29, 2016

arrest, and he was also booked for trespassing.

• Police booked an individual for two counts of fifth degree assault on Marsh Street W on Jan. 13.

• An individual was arrested on Alder Street E on Jan. 16 for a possible stolen vehicle, as well as a first degree DWI and a first degree test refusal.

• • A citation was issued to an individual at Myrtle Street W on Jan. 17 for a hit-andrun, careless driving and being parked in a traffic lane.

Theft • A theft was reported on Walnut Street E at 7:43 a.m. on Jan. 12.

• A stolen vehicle was reported at Whitey’s Bar on Main Street S on Jan. 16. Police con-

ducted a search and were able to locate the stolen vehicle.

• A gas drive-off theft was reported at Neighbor Stop on Owens Street N on Jan. 18.

Other • A two-vehicle accident occurred at Greeley Street N, northbound at the frontage road at 9:28 a.m. on Jan. 12.

• Police responded to a report of a disturbance that took place at Stillwater Junior High on Marsh Street W on Jan. 12.

• A hit and run involving property damage was reported near Cottage Drive and New Orleans Street W on Jan. 13.

• A male who had been reported missing was located on Hidden Valley Lane on Jan. 15.

WASHINGTON COUNTY BRIEFS The following actions were taken at the Jan. 19 Washington County Board of Commissioners meeting at the Government Center in Stillwater:

County will use grant money for children’s, adult crisis response services The Washington County Board of Commissioners approved the use of a 2016 Children and Adult Crisis Response Services grant Jan. 19 to support crisis response services in the county.

The $222,880 Children's and Adult Crisis Response Services grant supports crisis response services to residents of Washington County. The service includes 24-hour telephone screening and triage, mobile response teams, face-to-face crisis assessment and/or intervention, community stabilization and crisis clinic psychiatric services.

This is the first time that Washington County has received the grant; in prior years, it went directly to Canvas Health and the East Metro Alliance, the care providers.

Sheriff’s Office will use Homeland Security grant for equipment, training, public outreach The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will receive a $220,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management after the County Board approved an agreement with the agency Jan. 19. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Grant Program assists high-threat, high-density urban areas in efforts to build and sustain the capabilities necessary to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to and recover from acts of terrorism.

The UASI Grant Program will provide funding for

651-429-5420 16615 N. Forest Blvd.

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equipment, trainings, conferences, public outreach campaigns and drills.

The 2015 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant priorities were written and then discussed, prioritized, and approved by the police and fire chiefs represented on the Emergency Management council.

This year the grant was $220,000, down from 2009 when funding was $329,994.

McNamara will serve on Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District Jackie McNamara, Forest Lake, will serve on the Comfort Lake–Forest Lake Watershed District in a first term expiring Sept. 22, 2018.

The Washington County Board of Commissioners made the appointment Jan. 19. Watershed district governance, required by state statute, helps to control or alleviate damage by flood waters; improves stream channels for drainage or navigation; reclaims or fills wet or overflow lands; oversees water supply for irrigation; regulates the flow of streams; diverts or changes water courses; provides and conserves water supply; and provides for the protection of groundwater and regulation of groundwater use.

County will work with state, federal government to restore Historic Boom Site The Washington County Board of Commissioners amended agreements Jan. 19 that oversee the work being done by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to restore the Historic Boom Site north of Stillwater along the St. Croix River.

The DNR opened bids Dec. 10 to work on the project, and Veit & Company will be doing the work on the project, with construction to begin in spring.

The county is sponsoring the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by serving an intermediary role for the grant pass-through of federal funding between MnDOT and the DNR to assist the completion of the project.

The Boom Site was used during the heyday of logging

in the 1800s, when logging was the major industry in St. Croix River Valley, both in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Logs were cut and stamped with the mark of the owner, sent downriver, and collected at the Boom Site. It opened for business in 1856, and closed in 1914. Later, it became a roadside rest area, and was declared a National Historical Landmark in 1966. It is owned and maintained by the DNR. A number of improvements are planned to enhance the site as a recreational and historical asset.

Clean Harbors Environmental Services will continue to manage Environmental Center Clean Harbors Environmental Services will continue to manage the Washington County Environmental Center in Woodbury, after the County Board approved a three-year contract with the company Jan. 12. The contract will cost $1.1 million in 2016.

Since the program's inception, the county has contracted with a private hazardous waste company to provide professional services for the program. In 2011, the county contracted with Clean Harbors Environmental Services, which has provided good service and helped increase the reuse of paint and other products by residents from the Free Product Room.

Washington County will conduct elections for Landfall in 2016 Washington County will conduct elections in the city of Landfall in 2016, after the County Board approved an agreement with the city Jan. 19.

Landfall representatives approached Washington County last June and requested information about conducting the city elections beginning in 2016. Washington County provided a joint powers agreement to the city on July 1, 2015 for election administration services, and the City Council approved the agreement Dec. 21.

The joint powers agreement is to provide election administration services for all elections that would be conducted by the city, including the statewide primary and general elections, and any special elections.

The county conducts elections in a number of cities and school districts in the county, and the agreement for this administration is similar to the agreements with those bodies.

The Lowdown is direct-mailed to homes in Washington County and zip code 55092. It can also be found at more than 100 rack locations! If you know someone who would like to receive it, they can ‘Say Yes!’ online at www. readthelowdown.com or by calling 651.407.1247.

JANUARY 29, 2016

THE LOWDOWN

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9

Marine man joins effort to stop ivory hunters

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN COUNTRY MESSENGER EDITOR

SOUTH AFRICA — In shades of red, orange and yellow, two rhinoceros run across a screen. The aerial view has been captured by an infrared camera that flies via drone, sending live footage and GPS coordinates to operators on the ground in Africa. Though it’s night, the operators can also see poachers, similarly revealed by the camera’s thermal imaging.

“The poachers really own the night,” says Kevin Foley of Marine, “so this levels the playing field a little bit. When they hear or see these drones coming, they scatter.”

And if they don’t hear or see the drones, there’s an increasing likelihood they’ll be caught by armed rangers who are directed to the scene by the ground operators watching the infrared footage.

The program, Air Shepherd, is a new initiative of the Charles Lindberg Foundation that aims to protect elephants and rhinos from poachers. According to the organization, a single rhino horn can sell for as much $57,000, making the draw strong for poachers.

“In southern Africa, a rhinoceros is killed every 8 hours,” says Foley, who sits on Air Shepherd’s board of directors. “When you look at the statistics, it’s horrendous. What’s going to happen if we don’t do something about it is the only wildlife will be in zoos – and they’re not wild.”

At the current rate of killing, the animals will be gone in a decade.

Historically, the work of tracking poachers has been difficult and dangerous. Drones – quiet, small, unmanned aircraft – make the task safer and more efficient. The data they accumulate is helpful too.

“Air Shepherd uses predictive analytics and high tech algorhythms,” says Foley, who was connected to the group by founder John Peterson, a former associate and friend of Foley’s. “When you plug in the data it will tell you the most likely place the poachers will try to attack the wild life.”

Three Air Shepherd teams are working in South Africa now.

“These are armed, local rangers sworn to protect the wildlife and they have gotten into gun fights before with poachers,” says Foley. “Poachers don’t want to be caught, they’re armed, these guys need to stop them and that’s what happened.”

The organization is working to expand operations to Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Tanzania.

Foley speculates that after the program is well established in Africa the group would extend its sights to Southeast Asia.

“The only thing holding any of [these projects] back is funding,” he says. “The more money you have, the more drones you can get out there. … They’ve stopped a lot of killings, but it goes on because you can’t be

everywhere at once.

“The board meets weekly by phone to go over everything, see where we’re at and what the next steps are,” he continues. “Once the protocols are established, you can start to replicate in other areas of the world that need help.

“The key comes down to funding because with that you can have the drones, the rangers, the training facility. We’re working with high tech companies who are contributing to the effort, in kind and in cash, and with individuals. Everything is welcome.”

Of course, education can play a preventative role in ending poaching. Foley is hoping to collaborate with Tom Warth and Books for Africa to bring literature to students that would inform them of the problem and create an ethic of stewardship.

“If we can tie that together it would be a real nice piece of the puzzle,” he says. “Working together would help them, help us and help the animals. [Ivory] is a finite resource and getting more finite every day.”

Until the ivory market is gone, poachers will roam the night. Air Shepherd offers a glimmer of hope, but the flying guards – and their landlocked champions like Foley – have their work cut out for them.

To learn more or donate, visit airshepherd.org.

Gina Jablonski onsk ki

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Stillwater girls hockey s chosen by press staf *Athlete f

Athlete

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Gina had four points in the Stillwater girls’ hockey team’s Suburban East Conference victory over Woodbury. The junior forward had three goals and an assist in a 10-1 Pony victory over the Royals. Gina also plays Lacrosse and has volunteered over 70 hours.

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relay, winning first and third place.

Led by Duncan Johnson, the Rangers took first, third and fifth in the 100-yard backstroke, and claimed first and third in the 100-yard breaststroke.The also took first and fourth in the 400-yard freestyle relay.

The team won the event with a point total of 671.5, and Duluth swimmers came in second with a total of 453.5.

Forest Lake swim parent Sarah Chatwin said that many of the team members demonstrated significant drops in time, and that the high number of individual top placements earned them the team win.

of the

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Forest Lake boys hockey y s chosen by press staf *Athlete f

DULUTH — Forest Lake Boys Swim and Dive swept the competition with a resounding team win at the 2016 Duluth Invitational last week, beating out Duluth in both combined team scores and team rankings. Christian Richot took second and Andrew Jenson took third in 1 Meter Diving. Forest Lake took first in the 200-yard medley relay, and secured the first four places in the 200-yard freestyle. Duncan Johnson came in first in the 50-yard freestyle.

Forest Lake took second, third and a fourth tied with Duluth in the 100-yard butterfly. Wyatt Thompson took first in the 500-yard freestyle.The Rangers dominated in the 200-yard freestyle

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Front row from left to right: Christian Richot, Grant Maxfield, Wyatt Thompson, Brad Youngquist, Matt Clayton, Peter Brennhofer, William Chatwin, Liam Hunter, and Gabe Robertson.

Back row, left to right: Duncan Johnson, Ethan Herzog, Cody Madison, Connor Klein, Ben Chatwin, Alec Jankowski, Logan Thomas, Journey Roberge, and Max True.

The Forest Lake boys’ hockey team’s offense was in high gear against Park-Cottage Grove, and John sparked the effort.

The senior forward had two goals and one assist in an 8-2 triumph over the Wolfpack.

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North Lakes Academy competes in music listening contest COON RAPIDS — Six teams from North Lakes Academy in Forest Lake competed in a regional Music Listening Contest on Friday, Jan. 22. The contest is part of an effort to familiarize students with classical music styles and composers. This year a team from Champlin Park came in first place, and a team from Buffalo came in second.

The competition took place at Anoka Ramsey Community College in Coon Rapids.The six teams from North Lakes Academy, each composed of three members, included the following students: Logan Haller, Alissa Jesmer, Makenna Tholen, Anthony Zaccone, Abby Sullivan, Alyssa Blank, Jenna Werlein, Naomi Scott, Maddie McCullough, Evan DuFresne, Rio Brown, Connor Hanson, Zach Dreher-Oaks, Chaos

Lepinski-Eggers, Joe Stokes, Clare Flaherty, Brielle Mueller, Nicholas Narikawa and Emma Tiedeman.

The teams are coached by Nicole Ottjes.

The competition takes place in the states of Minnesota and Utah, and this year nearly 140 high school teams took part.

The mission of the Music Listening Contest is to assist teachers in their efforts to expand the music experiences of students — primarily through the use of Western art music, commonly referred to as classical music. The contest materials cover classical music, global perspectives and a variety of musical influences.

The objective of the contest is to inspire students to become lifelong participants in the musical experience.

The Music Listening Contest is an opportunity to

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enrich students’ experiences with classical music in a fun and competitive environment. This statewide contest connects high school students with classical music and enhances their ability to identify composers, periods and styles. In the fall, teachers or coaches recruit three students to form a team. Team members receive a study guide and repertoire compact discs that contain all the musical selections they will need to compete effectively. All teams participate in regional competitions. The top two scoring schools from the regional contest advance to the championship competition held at Augsburg College in Minneapolis on Friday, Feb. 5.

From press release

Oak-Land, Mahtomedi and Stillwater Area High School participate in National Science Bowl ST. PAUL — Stillwater and Mahtomedi were among the schools that competed at Macalester College on Jan. 23 in the regional level of the National Science Bowl. Middle school and high school students across the country compete each year in the National Science Bowl, sponsored by the Department of Energy and managed by DOE’s Office of Science, leading up to the national championship in May 2016. This year, a team from Edina took home the high school regional championship.

The competitions start in January, with four students from each team facing off in a fast-paced, question-and-answer format. (More information about the date and location of specific regionals can be found through the NSB Homepage). The winning team from each of the 48 middle and 68 high school regions will compete in the National Finals, held in Washington, D.C. from April 28 to May 2. At the finals, winning teams can score exciting adventure trips to Alaska and national parks across the country to learn firsthand about science in the field. Trophies, medals and supplies for their schools’ science departments are also up for grabs. But to many, the ultimate prize

simply would be the prestige of winning the National Championship.

Today, the NSB draws more than 14,000 middle and high school competitors. The knowledge that former NSB competitors have acquired — and more importantly, the habits of study that they’ve learned along the way — have led them to success in variety of fields.

Many have become researchers; others are science and math professors at some of our some of our nation’s most prestigious universities.

While those career paths might seem intuitive, the math and science knowledge students need to be successful in the NSB also can lead to successful careers in other fields.

The National Science Bowl is a nationwide academic competition that tests students’ knowledge in all areas of science and mathematics. Middle and high school student teams from diverse backgrounds are comprised of four students, one alternate, and a teacher who serves as an advisor and coach.

Oak-Land Junior High will compete in the middle school competition on Feb. 13 at the University of St. Thomas.

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SCHOOL BRIEFS Distinguished i i i h d alumni l i needed d d St. S C Croix i students d receive i The Partnership Plan is accepting nominations for the 2016 Distinguished scholastic awards Alumni Award. These awards honor SAHS alumni who have made a significant impact in the lives of others and the community. If you know of a distinguished alumnus you would like to nominate, fill out the short online form found at www.partnershipplan.org/distinguished-alumni/. Nominations are due Feb. 15.

A committee made up of representatives from Stillwater Area Public Schools and the Partnership Plan will review the nominations and select the award recipients. The chosen Distinguished Alumni will be honored at a reception prior to graduation and at the commencement ceremony in June.

Plaques recognizing the honorees are permanently hung near the main rotunda at Stillwater Area High School.

The plaques offer current students and visitors an opportunity to read about the successful life paths that former SAHS students have taken after graduation.

Forest Lake student selected for All-State WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FORESTLAKELOWDOWN WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STCROIXVALLEYLOWDOWN

Sara de Sobrino was named to the All-State Debate Team in the Lincoln Douglas debate. Only eight debaters from each type of debate are selected.

The following students at St. Croix Preparatory Academy in Stillwater recently won Scholastic Art and Writing Awards: · Miriam Cooper - Honorable Mention · Grace Gutierrez - Silver Key and Honorable Mention · Luca Hynnek - Gold Key · Elysabeth Kleinke - Gold Key · Lindsay Kugel - Gold Key · Carlee Mehls - Gold Key and Honorable Mention · Anna Nelson - Honorable Mention · Emma O'Brien - Honorable Mention · Julia Schiff - Honorable Mention · Shannon Smith - Silver Key, Silver Key, Honorable Mention · Allena Tussey - Honorable Mention · Kallie Johnson - Silver Key · Lucy Peterson - Honorable Mention · Maddie Wilkinson - Gold Key

Forest Lake yearbook earns national prestige

The 2016 yearbook has been nationally recognized for its design and scholastic journalism and is being used as a nation sample across the country. Only 3 percent of books are chosen every year to be included in this select group.

JANUARY 29, 2016

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WINTER WARM UP: New program gets students outdoors FROM PAGE 1

“Half the battle is staying warm,” said Stephanie Kovarik, who has helped to handle the project as program coordinator at PowerUp. “It’s a whole different experience when you’re warm outside and you’re having fun.”

Dressing warm for the weather happens to be LeGros’s specialty.

“I’m crazy passionate about people knowing how to dress in the winter,” LeGros said. She addressed the student body at the all-school assembly when the challenge and its rules were first announced, explaining the best way to stay comfortable in harsh temperatures.

In fact, her rule-of-thumb catchphrase, “Cotton is rotten; dress like an onion—in layers!” has spread around the school and is often referred to when undertaking each outdoor adventure.

PowerUp has assisted through managing logistics, as well as providing a method for tracking school progress and fun items such as the face-protecting neck warmers and trail mix. According to Kovarik, students have three opportunities to be active throughout the day: at recess, through outdoor class learning opportunities and at home.

In addition to these options, the challenge has initiated three after-school clubs for snowshoeing, cross country skiing and skating that allow parents to get in on the fun.

“Anyone can join, but they were really created around encouraging kids to get outside more,” Kovarik said. The after-school ski club includes instruction from the St. Croix Valley Ski Club, so that first-time skiers have a little bit of an introduction to the sport.

“We’ve had a wonderful turnout,” LeGros said, reporting 60 participants at the last after-school skate event. “This way the parents are also learning to have fun outside, and they’re more inclined to do it as a family.”

At the end of the five weeks, the classes will receive a special outdoor party with PowerUp’s carrot mascot Chomp. Classes also receive PowerUp Bucks in exchange for hours logged, which can go toward purchasing winter outdoor gear.

“Typically in winter we see people hunkering down inside during the winter,” Kovarik said. “It really is a fun way to be active, so kids can grow up thinking, ‘this is what we do.’”

For anyone interested in getting outdoors, LeGros had a few recommendations for how to dress to stay as warm and comfortable as possible: “Make sure there’s not cotton on the inner layer.

There should be polyester close to the skin, wool or syn-

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Top: The after school ice skating club was created as an additional way for Marine students to get active outdoors this winter.

Above left: Students snowshoe with new equipment purchased for the Winter Warm-Up Challenge outside of Marine Elementary.

Above right: Jack Kalmon filling out class points on the school thermometer to track school progress.

thetic fiber is great. The next layer should be insulating, which means fleece, down or wool. The outer layer should block the wind, and of course you should have a scarf or neck warmer and a hat.”

She also recommended to make sure that you drink lots of water, and to use the bathroom if your bladder is

full, to keep warmth in the core of your body.

LeGros said that she hopes the program will spread to other schools in the future.

To learn more about the Winter Warm-Up Challenge, visit www.powerup4kids.org/News/MarineElementarySchoolparticipatesintheWinterWarm-UpChallenge.

HERB BROOKS TOURNAMENT: Continuing a hockey legacy FROM PAGE 1

Pastor Jarvis Glanzer, who preaches at Watermark, is also responsible for coming up with the idea and helping to organize the event. Glanzer saw the need for a winter event to promote Stillwater, and reached out to his friend Boo, who was able to contact some of his hockey connections to make appearances at the festival.

“I’d say there will be 15 to 20 guys who have played,” Boo said, including renowned coach Bill Butters, who will present a free kids clinic for festival players on Saturday.

Friday will include a movie and popcorn night, with a screening of the Herb Brooks biopic “Miracle.” Another festival guest is hockey player Dave Hanson, who had a role in the Paul Newman comedy “Slap Shot.”

Another much-anticipated event is the Heroes Hockey Game between the local military and the Stillwater police department, fire department and Lakeview Hospital emergency medical services. Boo also expects the live band and auction at Rafters— which offers unique experience prizes such as a riverboat ride with Jack Carlson—to be a big hit. On Sunday, Bill Butters, Jack Carlson and Boo will speak at Watermark Church for a special “Hockey Sunday” service, presenting attendees with free hockey pucks and autographs afterward.

For the duration of the festival, a shuttle will be offered from Stillwater Area High School (where attendees are encouraged to park) to the St. Croix Valley Rec Center, and to downtown Stillwater.

“It should be an action-packed week-

IF YOU GO What: Sticks in Stillwater Mite Hockey Festival When: Friday, Feb. 5 through Sunday, Feb. 7 Where: St. Croix Valley Recreation Center 1675 Market Drive, Stillwater Other events hosted in downtown Stillwater end,” Boo said.

Proceeds from the tournament will go toward the Herb Brooks Foundation, which focuses on creating hockey programming for kids, making the game accessible and affordable and instilling a love of the game.

“It’s a great match,” Boo said. “Herb was my coach and mentor, and the event will provide resources to students that will pass that on.”

For a full schedule of tournament events, visit www. sticksinstillwater.com.

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Above: Coach Bill Butters will present a free kids clinic and speak at the Sunday morning service at Watermark Church.

Top Right: Former hockey player Dave Hanson, recognizable for his role as one of the Hanson brothers in the film “Slap Shot,” will be present at the Water Street Inn on Friday, 7 p.m. and at Acapulco on Saturday, 3:30 p.m. to meet fans and sign autographs.

Lower Right: Sticks in Stillwater organizer and former North Stars player Jim Boo poses with Paul Newman on the set of the film “Slap Shot,” in which Boo was an extra.

JANUARY 29, 2016

THE LOWDOWN www.presspubs.com

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Outdoorsman Babe Winkelman to speak at 2016 Wild Game Dinner

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

FOREST LAKE – For the second year in a row, Maranatha Assembly of God in Forest Lake will host an outdoor expo along with the annual Wild Game Dinner on Feb. 12. Event organizer Sam Beamond said that last year’s inclusion of tables from local businesses related to outdoors, hunting and fishing was well received.

“It’s made it more of a bigger event,” he said. “We did hand out comment cards last year, so there was a lot of good response from there. A lot of the vendors were pleased to be a part of it, especially the local vendors.”

Highlights this year include an archery shoot in conjunction with Wild River Archery, which opened in North Branch this past year.

“The purpose of that really is just to test out different bows, not any kind of shoot contest, but just so people can get a feel for new bows that have come out,” Beamond said. “Wild River Archery out of North Branch is a relatively new company up there.

There will be about 500 guys who show up so this will be a good opportunity for [Wild River] to get their name out there.”

Beamond, a member of the Maranatha assembly from Wyoming, has been organizing the Wild Game Dinners for the last three years. While the dinner itself has taken place at Maranatha for the last 28 years, the outdoor expo component of the dinner was added under Beamond’s supervision in 2015, and he continues to seek out new ways to make the event unique.

“I’m a longstanding member there, all of the people on my team are from the church,” he said. “The pastor’s pretty much involved as far as giving his blessing on the final elements. We basically take all the chairs out of the main auditorium and set it up with tables. There’s a pretty nice kitchen there where the food gets prepped.”

Another of Beamond’s additions is the annual gun game, a blind raffle put on in conjunction with Lakes Trading Company.

“You can buy as many tickets as you like, and we’ll have four different guns to give away, anything from a BB gun up to a rifle,” he said. “We pool them all in the same case, and if your ticket gets drawn, then you get to choose which number case you want. Obviously the BB gun is a $30 value whereas the rifle might be $5-6-700 value.”

In addition to this game, attendees are invited to bring their best taxidermied game mounts. An official scorer will be present to rate each mount for free.

“We’re encouraging people to bring in whatever wild game mounts they have,” Beamond said. “Each mount will be labeled with a number and it will be a people’s choice vote. The winner will receive $150 gift certificate for Rob’s Taxidermy.”

Outdoorsman and TV personality Babe Winkelman, who is based in Brainerd, will give a speech during the dinner.

“I met him at a trade show earlier last summer, I sort of talked to him about it,” Beamond said. “Obviously he’s a Minnesota native, so it’s not too far to travel.

What I’ve asked him to talk about is sort of a behindthe-scenes type of focus. He’s going to cover on some of the complexities in trying to film hunting or fishing versus just going fishing.”

Other vendors will include Mike’s Bait on 8, A-1 Archery from Hudson, and a number of local taxidermies and guide services.

The event is advertised as a men’s dinner, but Beamond said that he often gets questions about why women are excluded. He said that the church hosts a number of women’s events throughout the year, but there is very little male interest in attending these events. The dinner is meant to appeal specifically to male church members.

“We’re not necessarily going to turn people away,” he said. “But the church has women’s events throughout the year as well. We don’t have any men showing up wanting to attend women’s events.”

Last year’s event drew around 500 people, and Beamond expects the same turnout this year.

“We can seat about 500 and then we’re maxed out,” he said. “It’s kind of standing room only after that.”

Volunteer chefs will work throughout the week to prepare a variety of wild game dishes donated by church members and local hunters. “Obviously, a lot of stuff needs to marinated,” Beamond said. On the day of the feast, the cooks arrive at 5 a.m. and don’t leave until well after 10 p.m., serving up platters of venison,

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IF YOU GO What: 28th annual Men’s Wild Game Dinner Where: Maranatha Assembly of God, 24799 Forest Blvd., Forest Lake When: Friday, Feb. 12 Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner starts at 5:30 p.m.

Cost: $8 in advance or $10 at the door Phone: 651-464-3131

turkey, salmon and more unusual plates, such as antelope and even raccoon.

“Last year we roasted up a few of those and people actually really liked them,” Beamond said. “This year we’ll be doing raccoon again, and we’ve got some wild boar. Generally people in the church or people that they know donate the game. There’s a couple of head chefs from the church and they have a team that helps out.”

Tickets for the Wild Game Dinner are available at the Maranatha Assembly church office and can be purchased during office hours, weekdays 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m, Sundays 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and closed Saturdays.

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WWW.WINKELMAN.COM | SUBMITTED

Top: Winners of last year’s gun game raffle show off their prizes at the Wild Game Dinner.

Above Left: Attendees bring their best mounts for display and competition in a “People’s Choice” vote to win a $150 taxidermy gift card.

Above Right: A professional scorer will be present to evaluate mounts for free as part of the outdoor expo.

Babe Winkelman, host of the TV shows “Good Fishing” and “Outdoor Secrets,” will speak at the Wild Game Dinner on Feb. 12.

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JANUARY 29, 2016

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STILLWATER HEART SAFE COMMUNITY: Jan. 19 City Council meeting FROM PAGE 2

staff to enter into contract negotiations.

Tabled consideration of a designation study of the residential structure located at 816 Fourth St. S., for 90 days with the request that the property owners actively try to sell their home. The study was initiated by the Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) and by the process outlined in the Demolition Ordinance. The house is located in the heart of the Churchill, Nelson, Slaughter addition and is characteristic of many of the other homes in the neighborhood, City Planner Abbi Jo Whitman said.

It is a vernacular-style, balloon-frame home, built between 1870 and 1910, much like many of the others on S. Fourth Street. The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) has determined that this structure is a Historic Resource with feasible alternatives to

demolition, she said.

Approved a joint powers agreement with the City Board of Water Commissioners for part-time technology services from the city's IT Department during 2016 for a total amount between $6,000 and $7,000. The amount will be re-evaluated for 2017 to determine whether this is a fair figure. The action was tabled from the Dec. 15 meeting and discussed at the Jan. 5 meeting. The board agreed to hourly rate changes based on who is doing the work, IT Manager Rose Holman said.

Approved the revised Purchasing Policy and amendment of the provisions regarding approvals of budgeted capital items. The policy raises the threshold for council approval of budgeted capital items to $50,000.

Accepted work and ordered the final payment for the 2013 Street Improve-

ment Project to Hardrives, Inc. in the amount of $23,638.57. Work on the project has been completed.

Approved the consulting service contract for the HPC Training Program. The city will spend $66,500 to partner with the cities of Eden Prairie and Mankato to develop a training program for the HPC through the consulting fi rm of Winter & Co. There is currently no uniform training program for local preservation commissions in Minnesota, Whitman said.

Approved a license with Washington County to use real property for the Hazardous Waste Day Collection to be held on Saturday, May 21.

Approved 2016 annexation development fee rates. The development fees were not included in the 2016 Fee Schedule approved at a recent council meeting, because the index for computing the fees had not been

published for the year. Fees for storm sewer, transportation and trunk sewer and water increased from the past year.

Purchased two marked squad cars for the police department for a total of $50,000, as authorized in the 2016 adopted budget. The vehicles are a Ford Explorer and a Ford Taurus.

Authorized city participation in the Department of Natural Resources Legacy Fund grant application to create a pollinator park within the city. The proposed pollinator park is planned for the half-acre on the southeast corner of Laurel and Owens Streets.

The council next meets at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 2 at City Hall.

Local agriculture teacher wins new truck

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS EDITOR

HUGO — An agriculture teacher from a familiar farm family will be driving a new truck after winning a national award Jan. 11 in Orlando, Florida.

Mike Miron of Hugo represented the Washington Ramsey County Farm Bureau at the Young Farmers and Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture competition at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual meeting. First prize was his choice of a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado or 2016 GMC Sierra, courtesy of Chevrolet.

Miron isn’t sure which truck he’ll choose, but he will be trading in a 2004 pickup for the new wheels. He’ll have to pay sales tax and count the truck’s value as income — all good problems to have, said the Forest Lake High School teacher, who also serves on the Hugo City Council.

His 25-minute presentation in Orlando focused on the importance of retaining educators in the agriculture field and exposing the mostly urban public to farming practices and good land stewardship.

After making the top 10 fi nalists, Miron said it was “nerve-wracking” waiting on stage as the winner was announced. “First they name the fourth, third and second winners,” he recalled.

“So you’re standing there with the remaining fi nalists. They either announce your name or you go home with what you came with.”

Was he surprised? “Yes,” Miron replied. “You like to put in your best effort in representing your state but any time there’s a national competition like that, you’re competing against plenty of accomplished people.”

Miron advanced to the national AFBF competition after capturing top honors at the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation contest in November.

The competition is designed as an opportunity for young farmers and ranchers younger than 35 who may not farm 100 percent of the time to earn recognition while advocating for agriculture and building leadership skills through their involvement in Farm Bureau and their community.

“I am grateful and humbled to receive this tremendous honor,” Miron said. “I appreciate the efforts of Farm Bureau to provide a voice for American agriculture. Young Farmer and Rancher opportunities have contributed to my professional and personal success, and I would strongly

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This isn’t Mike Miron’s new truck, but he will drive something similar. Chevrolet picks which dealership he will work with to obtain the new vehicle. “I can be patient,” he said.

Right: Mike Miron competed against 29 state winners for the American Farm Bureau Excellence award.

encourage others to get involved. I am thankful to the sponsors of our programs and their investment in young farmers.”

The teacher and FFA adviser is the fi fth generation to live and work on the family’s dairy and crop farm in Hugo. His dad Fran Miron was a longtime mayor of Hugo and currently serves as the Washington County Commissioner for District 1.

Miron had other news, as well. The councilman got engaged at Christmas to his French-born girlfriend, Séverine Poul. No date has been set.

“We’re enjoying being engaged,” he said, “and looking to the next steps.”

JANUARY 29, 2016

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15

COMMUNITY BRIEFS CONTINUED Washington County seeking input from residents through survey

JIM MORTWEDT | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Trollhaugen from the top of the ski hills.

Across the St. Croix to ski What many of us like about where we live, near the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, is instantly recognizable at our ski hills.

Lines of schoolchildren on a January Wednesday march from yellow school buses to the rental shop to Woods be fitted, nowadays with short parabolic skis and and Water helmets.

If you're long away from Notebook such a place you might Jim think helmets are too much: politically correct, Mortwedt even. But helmets on the ski hill are a brainbucket, protecting what's most vulnerable bl and d beyond that they are a warm hat, not to be dismissed. Putting them on school kids is something that area ski hills think is common sense, although litigation almost certainly played a part.

Minnesota leads the nation in intact families, it’s a fact. We like that too.

We're a more wholesome place, by golly, and when and if the world comes to its senses one day, in my opinion, Minnesota will get its due. As I said, all of this is somehow fully on display at many ski hills here, including one just across the St. Croix River, Trollhaugen, in Dresser, Wisconsin. My wife Nancy and I are skiing there today.

From atop the big hill, the valley countryside on this winter day is a Currier and Ives print: white, lovely and pastoral.

The ski hills are vertically striped by red oaks and jack pine.

The kids bear every expression. Some a study in pre-adolescent anxiety; the alpha children working their influence; many work at simply fitting in. All of it classic childhood and something to celebrate.

But in the outdoors, on the ski hills, you get to live in the moment and after getting off the quad lift, one ski of mine shoots forward as I look backward and— like that!—I go down. I grunt getting back to my feet. It's noon—I hear a distant whistle—I’ve just gotten the first run in. It will have to be a short day on the hill. I’ve got stuff to do.

I get great enjoyment from skiing here.

Often you can ski uninterrupted from the time you pole off at the summit to when you plunk down on the chair lift below.

Plenty of Wisconsin ski hills have gone the way of Wisconsin supper clubs. Those that remain have good vertical and are well run. They get all that vertical from the ancient basalt hills important to Dresser that have long supplied rock gardens and railroads with gray trap rock

that blackens when wet.

Every time we come here Nancy and I see the same lift operator cajoling the kids to get mindful about the approach to the lift. Be safe! Watch for your turn!

Thank you! There’s a lot of courtesy.

The kids do well and they are attended by chaperones nearby if needed. Earlier Nancy, a fine skier, gave lessons and was pleased how well this group took to the hill. Volunteers are important. It's pleasing to see the fun they have too.

It’s a barometer of well-being how much volunteerism exists. And that’s another happy thought. Some days it does everyone good to put rose-colored glasses on and keep ‘em on.

It's not Trollhaugen only. It's that great mix of fun, youth and socializing under the January sky. It lifts you as surely as the chairlifts.

As a kid I was told skis should measure my height plus my skyward reach.

Today's skis are far more manageable and shorter, and today's hills, like today's athletic fields, are so well groomed. What a boon to enjoyment! Beginners advance quickly. I hear boys bragging to each other about skiing the black diamond runs.

And the girls want to keep their long hair outside of their helmets. Gotta look good!

The light is flat and shadows longer.

Best watch out. But the inch of powder makes every skier better. Our time is almost up of our own doing. "One more run," I tell Nancy. "We've got a party to go to at 4 p.m." We get to the top and ski off, mindful that in the end run we must have enough speed to carry us uphill to the rack where the skis and poles are leaned.

It's a final and manageable challenge before we walk in to the warm chalet for the day.

Washington County will seek input from residents with a survey of 2,500 of its residents; the mailed surveys should arrive in mailboxes soon after Feb. 8.

Residents will be randomly selected to participate in the mailed 2016 Residential Survey, 500 from each of the five commissioner districts in the county.

The county wishes to hear from those who are impacted by county programs, and responses will be used to improve service and to measure the performance of county programs.

Those selected for the survey will receive a postcard in early February telling them that their household has been selected and when to expect to receive the survey itself. For those who do not fill out and return the first survey received, a second survey will be mailed sometime in mid-February. It will include a postage-paid return envelope.

The survey is being administered by National Research Center, Inc., but surveys will be recognizable by the Washington County logo. Responses will be anonymous, and National Research Center will not share its mailing list with Washington County. Results will be available in May or early June.

Masons fundraising applications now being accepted The Forest Lake Masons are now accepting applications from charitable organizations to participate in one of the three community support fundraising events planned for 2016. The Masons have had a long history of fundraising for cancer research and support of family/youth needs. They have been very successful with their current model of tying these charitable fund raising events with Lodge Pancake Breakfasts.

Historically, donations have been in the $1,000 to $6,000 range. This year the Masons are expanding the opportunity from one to three potential events, with the first one taking place in April.

Applications are being accepted now.

Your organization does not need to be in Forest Lake but should be at least in the surrounding area. Your organization can fill out an application by emailing the lodge with a request for an application at ForestLakeMasons@gmail.com or visiting the website and sending in a request at www.ForestLakeMasons.com Time is of the essence to be considered for the first event. All applications must be received by March 1.

Connect the Dots speed volunteering initiative Community Thread’s Connect the Dots is a new communitywide event for volunteers of all ages, especially families. Teach the value of volunteerism to your children and strengthen our community by assembling supplies for local nonprofits. Supplies include kitchen packs, hygiene kits and gift-wrapping sets.

Connect the dots and get supplies to those who need them.

Volunteers will walk through a simple assembly line and put together packages. There will also be a coloring station for kids of all ages to express their artistic talent.

Participate in speed volunteering by stopping by for a few minutes or the full two hours. No prior registration required. Adult supervision required for volunteers 12 and under. Speed volunteering will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 13. If you have any questions, please contact Paige Stein at 651-439-7434 or Paige@ CommunityThreadMN.org.

We moved — Again!

We are back in our Commerce Court location.

See our new showroom to design that magical shower enclosure.

Podiatrist– Foot Specialist Dr. Christopher Phillips Medical and Surgical Management of the Foot and Ankle Sports Medicine Treatment of Adults and Children with Foot Conditions

• Ingrown Toenails • Arch & Heel Pain • Bunions • Hammer Toes • Senior & Diabetic Foot Care • Arthritic Feet 4653 White Bear Pwky White Bear Lake, MN 55110

651-426-3995 www.WhiteBearFootAndAnkleClinic.com

1759 Commerce Court (Off Co Rd E behind Xcel Energy)

White Bear Lake

651-426-3289 whitebearglass.com

16

THE LOWDOWN

JANUARY 29, 2016 www.presspubs.com

Reel Don’t Miss!

Good

Worth a Look

Forget it

“45 YEARS�

5 >/$1*8$*( $1' %5,() 6(;8$/,7< @

When an Englishman (Tom Courtenay) learns that his former lover from 50 years ago was found buried in Alpine glacier after a hiking accident in this compelling, down-to-earth, well-acted, 95-minute film based on David Constantineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s novel â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Another Country,â&#x20AC;? his devoted wife (Charlotte Rampling) struggles with her husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s secrecy while preparing for their 45-year anniversary party.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

an

â&#x20AC;&#x153;CAROLâ&#x20AC;?

5 >$ 6&(1( 2) 6(;8$/,7< 18',7< $1' %5,() /$1*8$*( @

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; In this touching, compelling, well-acted, start-studded (Sarah Paulson, Jake Lacy, and John Magaro), 118-minute film based on Patricia Highsmithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s novel â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Price of Salt,â&#x20AC;? a beautiful, sophisticated, divorced, bisexual housewife (Cate Blanchett) in the 1950s finds herself caught between her young department store lover (Rooney Mara) she meets in Manhattan during the Christmas holidays and her controlling, jealous exhusband (Kyle Chandler), who continually flirts with her and uses her unconventional sexuality and their daughter (Sadie Helm) as a pawn to gain sole custody.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE FORESTâ&#x20AC;?

3* >',6785%,1* 7+(0$7,& &217(17 $1' ,0$*(6 @

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; When an American schoolteacher goes missing in Japan and allegedly journeys into a haunted, menacing forest where distraught people go to commit suicide in this uneven, lackluster, dark, creepy, 95-minute, horror film, her worried twin sister (Natalie Dormer) travels 6,000 miles to Tokyo and is joined by an American journalist (Taylor Kinney) and a Japanese guide (Yukiyoshi Ozawa) in the traumatic search to find her.

MELISSA BAUS PHOTOGRAPHY & GRAPHICS

Chamber Ambassadors, family and friends celebrated with Melissa Magyar at a ribbon-cutting to celebrate her new business in Stillwater.

Chamber Celebrates opening of new business Precision Aesthetics STILLWATER â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of Precision Aesthetics with a ribbon-cutting on Jan. 14.

Precision Aesthetics is a new skin care and laser medical spa that opened in September in the business offices at Liberty. Its professional services range from Botox, chemical peels and advanced microdermabrasion to hair removal and tattoo removal. Its mission is to help make the process and decision-making about treatments easy for its clients, and the team is committed to bringing its clients the widest and most advanced selection of aesthetic and wellness treatments available. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will help customize a treatment plan just for you, and use the latest state-of-the-art technology to deliver unsurpassed cosmetic results,â&#x20AC;? said owner Melissa Magyar. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are very focused on safety and

our team is highly experienced in the services we provide.â&#x20AC;? Melissa is an RN, and has been working as a nurse in aesthetic medicine since February 2008.

She prides herself on building trust and long-term professional relationships with her patients. With an artistic eye and skillful hand, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedicated to providing the highest level of care and unsurpassed aesthetic outcomes.

Precision Aesthetics is running promotions for Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Hours are Mondays and Fridays 10 a.m.6 p.m., Wednesdays 12 p.m.-8 p.m., and Thursdays and Saturdays by appointments. Precision Aesthetics is located at 105 New England Place #260 in Stillwater.

It can be reached by phone at 651-295-7695 or at www. myinnerswan.com.

From press release

Stormwater reuse assessment tool

â&#x20AC;&#x153;SON OF SAULâ&#x20AC;?

5 >',6785%,1* 9,2/(17 &217(17 $1' 620( *5$3+,& 18',7< @ >68%7,7/('@

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A disturbing, gut-wrenching, somber, dark, well-acted, 35mm-format, 107-minute film that focuses on the monotonous, monstrous, unbelievable daily plight of a Hungarian Jewish prisoner (GĂŠza RĂśhrig) working in the crematoriums of Auschwitz in 1944 who desperately tries to find a rabbi to bless and bury a young boy who he believed was his son who died in the gas chamber while he plans an escape with other Jews (Levente MolnĂĄr, Todd Charmont, et al.).

WENDY SCHADEWALD The preceding films were reviewed by Wendy Schadewald, who has been a Twin Cities film critic since 1986. To see more of her film reviews, log on to www.shortredheadreelreviews.com.

Š1986 through 2016 by Wendy Schadewald

The Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) announced Dec. 15 that staff will develop and implement a stormwater reuse irrigation assessment tool in 2016.

The tool will identify and prioritize possible project locations to determine which offer the greatest reductions in groundwater pumping for the lowest cost.

The District sees this project as a critical step towards addressing the growing concerns of residents about regional groundwater management. This project has been awarded funding in the amount of $100,000 from the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) through the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment.

The RCWD Board of Managers and staff are committed to building and promoting projects that provide our residents with multiple benefits such as improved water quality, flood protection, and more recently, reduced reliance on groundwater for landscape irrigation.

According to RCWD Administrator Phil Belfiori, â&#x20AC;&#x153;this project is

timely because as interest in water reuse grows, so does the need for a way to systematically identify areas that are best suited for these practices.â&#x20AC;?

Upon completion, this tool will be available for use by others statewide.

The project will be completed in four phases. The stormwater reuse irrigation assessment tool will be developed during phase one. RCWD staff will begin by contacting all 28 cities within its boundary to learn more about criteria and resources being used by city staff to identify reuse project locations. Additional research will be conducted to identify any other publicly available tools that may be useful when identifying possible water reuse sites. As part of this process, criteria will be developed to help staff prioritize possible project locations. Criteria will likely include anticipated groundwater use reductions, known impacts to surface water, and site limitations.

RCWD staff will begin phase two by applying the stormwater reuse

irrigation assessment tool within the district. Possible project locations will be identified and prioritized based on the criteria developed during this process.

Field analysis will occur to verify the 10 most promising project locations. The district will then draft detailed descriptions about each of the 10 locations including possible projects, expected benefits, and cost estimates. Phases three and four will consist of adapting the stormwater reuse irrigation assessment tool based on lessons learned and detailing those findings and the revised tool in a final report to BWSR. The district has been partnering with RCWD cities to complete water reuse projects for the better part of a decade. RCWD staff look forward to continuing this important work in a way that will not only benefit communities throughout the District, but also statewide.

RCWD press release

JANUARY 29, 2016

Crossword

www.presspubs.com

THE LOWDOWN

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be found on the internet at WeathermanWatson.com.

Weather tidbits Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com SUNRISE / SUNSET

CLUES DOWN CLUES ACROSS 1. Gum arabic 1. Basics 2. Crazy, loco, wacky 4. Paper container 3. Unconnected 7. Diving ducks of N America having a bluish- 4. Whirring sound 5. Tartness gray bill 6. A group of individuals 9. Spruce 7. Bard 11. Sacred choral 8. Buddy composition 9. Not an amateur 14. Ear lobe decoration 10. North-central Indian city 16. S Am. wood sorrel cultivated for its edible 12. Chit 13. Reverences tubers 14. Inspire with love 17. Wolf drama series 15. Endocrine gland 19. Straight, bowling or 18. Biblical name for Syria bobby 21. Cotton growing region in 20. The woman 24. Heroic tale W. Central India 26. Daddy 22. Tax saving retirement 28. Killing yourself account 30. In a way, discolors 23. Expresses pleasure 32. Artiodactyls 25. Synoptical 34. Resistant to change 26. Peseta 35. Northeast 27. Oceans 36. Watering places 29. Weekday 31. Octagonal motif in rugs 38. A way to pave 39. Value excessively 33. Beam out 40. Poplar trees (Spanish) 34. Escargots 42. Elk Grove High School 37. Mother of Apollo in 44. Abroad ancient mythology 45. Author George Bernard 40. Fed 41. A sleeveless garment like 47. Old world, new 49. Tiny insectivorous W. cloak but shorter Indian bird 43. Yugoslavian River 51. British School 45. Patti Hearst’s captors 52. Moroccan coastal region 46. Representational 53. Radioactivity unit likeness 57. Sheep sound 48. Plundered 50. Clothier 54. ___ de Janeiro 55. Peaceful relations 56. Replaced union workers 58. African people of Senegambia 59. Every 24 hours 60. 1/100 yen 61. Summate

Fri

Jan.

29 7:36 5:16

Sat

Jan.

30 7:35 5:17

Sun

Jan.

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7:34 5:18

Mon Feb.

1

7:33 5:20

Tue

Feb.

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7:32 5:21

Wed Feb.

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7:31 5:22

Thu

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7:30 5:23

Feb.

Sudoku

WEATHER TIDBIT We can’t seem to have mild temperatures and sunny skies. When it’s been sunny it’s been bitter cold, and when it’s been mild we’ve had cloudy skies. We’ve been evenly split on cloudy and sunny days this month.

YEAR AGO THIS WEEK January 2015 finished 3° warmer than normal.

We totaled 4 days of 40° and only 1 day with highs below 0° vs January 2016 with no days in 40’s and 2 days with highs below 0°.

WEEKLY AVERAGES JAN 29 - FEB. 4, 2016 High Low %Sun PCP 25° 8° 53% 0.18”

Fun Fact The average life expectancy for a person in the U.S. is 78.11 years.

Did you notice?

Adult cats only “meow” to communicate with humans.

Top 5 at PressPubs.com:

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.“

Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories

-Lao Tzu

Week of Jan. 17 – 23

1. Samoan chief wears many hats. Citizen> News 2. Astronaut to students: Not even the sky is the limit. White Bear Press > News 3. Blaine Civil Air Patrol cadet receives highest honor. Quad Press > News 4. Vocalist auditions with the Met at Ordway.

Lowdown (SCV) > News 5. ‘Wizard’ scientist visits local schools. Quad Press > News

See Press Publications’ website www.presspubs.com for stories from the White Bear Press, The Citizen, Vadnais Heights Press, Shoreview Press, Quad Community Press, The Lowdown-Forest Lake Area and The Lowdown- St. Croix Valley Area.

17

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Where

JANUARY 29, 2016 www.presspubs.com

S T A MET E H T

EXPO

RO

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22

Where

S S E N I S U UNITY & B Where

COMM

COMMUNITY BUSINESS EXPO Brought to you by

Where Where

here

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ou to bring Where r family to t ME E H T T E O G blications Invite Where Where t b i MAY 1ST, 2016 • 11-4

VENDORS WANTED

HELD AT: THE VADNAIS SPORTS CENTER FREE FAMILY FUN WITH ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT: • Facepainting • Bounce House • Stage Entertainment • Special Quest • And Much More

THIS EVENT WILL FEATURE: • Local Business • Home Improvement / Design & Style • Health & Medical • Sports & Fitness • Local Non-Profits • Government / Schools & Elected Officials

TO REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT GO TO WWW.VHEDC.COM **Sponsor opportunities available- Platinum sold out** Please contact Patty Steele at 651-407-1213 or marketing@presspubs.com

JANUARY 29, 2016

THE LOWDOWN

www.presspubs.com

23

AROUND TOWN

2.

1.

2.

1.An anonymous neighbor, the “Elston Court Elf,” surprised residents of the Evergreen Ridge neighborhood on a snowy morning with a colorful surprise in their yards. About 10 dyed globes of ice added some flair to each yard. “People woke up this morning to a rainbow surprise to help brighten the dreary winter,” said a neighbor. — Submitted 2. Hidden Pines Ranch summer camp in Stillwater recently changed hands after 19 years. Kelly and Peter Schuna (pictured with their children), both of whom have worked at the camp before, will be transitioning into the operation of the camp in 2016. — Submitted 3. Mahtomedi Skate Party2: Annabel Schmitt, 23 mo., gets some help skating for the first time from her mother Terra during the 20th annual Outdoor Skating Party on the rinks behind the District Education Center in Mahtomedi Sunday, Jan. 24. — Paul Dols

3.

Press ress Publications’ 31st Annual

WEDDING EXPO

Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to whitebearnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.

Thank You To Everyone who made this event a success!

• All Event Wizards • Arthur Murray • Arthur Murray Dancers • Bachmans • Best Day Ever • Bread Art • Buttered Toast • Cub Foods • Carlson Chiropractic Clinic • Dellwood Barn Weddings • Dr. Sarah Boo • Edina Realty- Linda Powers • Escape with Us Vacations

• Frank Murphy Fashions • Gary LaRue • Glitz & Glam • Grass Lake Photography • It Works Global • Julia House Photography • Kage Imagery • Kowalski • Lakeside Floral • Liberty Tree Farm • Mary Kay • Midwest Sound DJ Entertainment

• My Pan Party • North Metro Hilton • Partyon Stillwater • Pure Romance • Rat Pack Entertainment • Revive Salon • Rudy’s Redeye Grill • Salon Cheveux • Savvi Formalwear • Savvi Formalwear Models • Sienna Cole • Sienna Cole Models • Stella & Dot

Photos by Paul Dols

• Stillwater Printing • Strikke Knits • Tria Restaurant & Bar • The Nesting • Unreal Arrangements • White Bear Country Inn • Young Living Essential Oils

A big thank you to all the brides, grooms and their guests for attending the 31st annual show.

THE LOWDOWN

JANUARY 29, 2016

www.presspubs.com

Calendar of Events February 12 - February 14, 2016 Paint the Town

mainstreetstillwaterIBA.com

Scene on Main As we welcome in 2016, your Mainstreet Stillwater IBA members invite you take a mini mid-winter getaway and visit one or more of our many shops, restaurants, and businesses. We’re here just for you, and we’re waiting to help warm up your winter months. We also have plenty of free parking on Main Street and on our many historic side streets. More than 50 unique independent businesses owned and operated by your friends and neighbors make up the magic that is your home town. We hope to see you soon!

Red - Valentine’s Day Specials & Carriage Rides Main Street shops, restaurants, and attractions welcome you to their romantic city to celebrate with your Valentine all weekend long with specials. Meet near the Dock Cafe on Nelson Street for FREE carriage rides along the river on Saturday, February 13th from 4-8pm. There will be two carriages running to accomodate the demand.

Tickets are available at participating businesses and local lodging. Shopping and dining deals can be found all weekend long throughout Historic Downtown Stillwater! We will have two carriages running to allow for more couples to enjoy the beautiful winter scene.

Individual Dates & Times: Feb 20, 2016: 10 am - 10 pm (Sat) * Event durations (if noted) are approximate.

Please check with the presenting organization or venue to confirm start times and duration.

Parking: Parking lot behind restaurant.

Live Irish Music most Friday and Saturday evenings at Charlie’s Irish Pub presented by the Water Street Inn from 7:30 to 11:30 pm Authors After Hours-Beth Dooley and BJ Carpenter presented by Valley Bookseller. See website for

complete information.

Watch this space for upcoming IBA member events and specials!

February 20, 2016 Brine’s Frozen Bocce Ball Tournament. Come cheer on the fun during the Brines 23rd Annual Tournament in the parking lot behind Brines Restaurant & Bar downtown Stillwater along the St. Croix River.

General Day and Time Info: To register your team, call 651-439-7556. 10am Start

For more information, visit Discover Stillwater.com

Support our Local Independents. They’re here for you!

321 Main Street South 651-439-0814 www.alfrescocasualliving.com

131 Main Street South 651-351-3949 www.leosgrill.com

212 Main St N 651-430-8004 www.candylandstore.com

423 Main Street South 651-342-1386 www.darnknitanyway.com

Nelson Street East 651-342-0799 www.facebook.com/TinBins

200 East Chestnut Street 651-430-1345 www.sashclothing.com

101 Water Street South 651-439-6000 www.waterstreetinn.us

425 East Nelson Street 651-430-3770 www.dockcafe.com

217 Main Street North 651-430-3385 www.valleybookseller.com

Now open in the Brick Alley building

Visit our Taproom in Stillwater @ 1900 Tower Drive www.liftbridgebrewery.com

IBA MEMBERS

24

102 Main Street North 651-430-8113 www.forgetmenotinstillwater.com

114 Main Street North 651-439-6200 www.purefexsalon.com

45 Degrees • Alfresco • Art N Soul • A’salonna Salon & Spa • Betty Junes • Biercycle Adventures • Brine’s Bar & Restaurant • Camrose Hill • Candyland • Capture Salon • Charlie’s Restaurant & Irish Pub • Collaborations • Cooks of Crocus Hill • Cover Park Manor • Darn Knit Anyway • Dock Café • Enchante • Forget me Not • Gaalaas Jewelers • Gammy & Gumpy’s • Gondola Romantica • Healing Within Acupunture • JJ’s Nails & Massage • Johnny’s TV • Kari’s Create and Paint Studio • Kathe Wohlfhart • Leo’s Grill and Malt Shop • Liftbridge Brewing Co • Lion’s Main • Mama’s Happy • Maple Island Brewing • Matt & Nates • Maybe, Maybe Not • My Sister’s Cottage • Nellie Bellie • Northern Vineyards Winery • Party On Stillwater • The Pole Barn Studio • Purefex Salon • Rafters • Reclaiming Beautiful • Reve 324 • River Market Co-Op • Sash Clothing • Simply Chic • Smalleys • Spice & Tea Co • St. Croix Valley Lowdown • Stillwater Art Guild Gallery • Stillwater Boat Club & Rental • Stillwater Montessori • Stillwater Trolley • Stokes Jewelry/Katydid’s • Studio One Yoga • Tamarack Gallery • Tin Bins • Tremblays • Valley Bookseller • Water Street Inn • Wedge & Wheel