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Swedish heritage is up before the sun for Lucia Dagen JULIE ERICKSON | GAMMELGARDEN MUSEUM

The Svenskarnas Dag Girls Choir, with their Lucia in the traditional costume (foreground), performs Swedish songs.

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

The Gammelgarden Museum in Scandia knows the recipe for fighting off the winter blues: candlelight, fresh baked cookies, a dash of traditional carols and a huge Swedish breakfast. This is the annual Lucia Dagen celebration, which will take place on Sunday, Dec. 13 at the museum.

St. Lucy’s Day, or as the Swedish call it, Lucia Dagen, is a midwinter celebration meant to bring light to the darkest days of winter. Lucia was a Christian martyr who was burned at the stake in

Syracuse, Sicily, and her feast day is also celebrated in many regions of Italy. Missionaries are believed to have brought the story of Lucia’s sacrifice to Sweden.

According to one legend, Sweden was suffering through a terrible famine when some of its people saw a miraculous vision of a woman dressed in white over the ocean, carrying a basket full of bread. They believed it was sign that prosperity would return because St. Lucia had appeared to save them.

The Lucia service always takes place on a Sunday regardless of whether the holiday falls on Dec. 13. This year, Dec. 13 happens to be a Sunday, adding a cer-

tain authenticity to the celebration.

Scandia’s celebration of Lucia Dagen, hosted by Gammelgarden, has been around for a number of years. “It started as an in-house festival that became a town festival,” said Julie Erickson, head of marketing at the museum.

In Sweden, the Lucia celebration is so popular that the city of Stockholm elects a young girl to fill the role of Lucia, and she serves cookies and refreshments to the Nobel Prize laureates, who are announced around the same time.

In more modest celebrations, the oldest daughter of a family would rise early in the morning, put on the white gown and

red sash, and serve specially made saffron buns, or Lucia buns, to her family.

The site of the Lucia Dagen service, a tiny structure on the grounds known as Gammelkyrkan, is remarkable all on its own—it is the oldest Lutheran church in the state. The church was built by the first Swedish settlers in Scandia in 1856, but their community grew so rapidly that it no longer suited their needs.

“For a while it was a schoolhouse, and then just kind of a hay barn,” Erickson said. “We bought it and restored it, and it is now used as a church again.”

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Forest Lake combats sex trade with community awareness

BY THE NUMBERS 1 in 3 12-14 37% 244,000 3 million 80% 60-90% 83% 57% 95% 90%

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

runaway children are lured into prostitution within 48 hours of running away Is the average age of entry into prostitution in U.S. of sex trafficking victims in the U.S. are minors American children are estimated to be at risk of child sexual exploitation children are trafficked each year globally of victims are female of victims are without safe housing are victims of assault with a deadly weapon are victims of kidnapping are chemically dependent have criminal records

Statistics from Trafficking Resource Center, Shared Hope International, Make Way Partners, Polaris Project, University of Pennsylvania School of Social Work, Congressional Research Service, United Nation and U.S. State Department.

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FLPD Detective Ashley LaValle spoke to the Forest Lake Partnership for Families (FLAPF) about the signs and risks of sex trafficking within the community at its monthly meeting on Dec. 2.

The presentation was timely, following the recent arrest of a St. Paul man for his involvement in promoting the prostitution of a Forest Lake minor.

The crackdown on sex trafficking is born out of the recent formation of a Washington County Attorney’s Office initiative that devotes more resources, including law enforcement, legal and social services, to addressing human trafficking.

“We are here to talk about an issue of concern that is really off people’s radars, but it is an issue of concern that is in our community,” said FLAPF committee member Kathy Bystrom, who serves as the community outreach manager at Fairview Lakes Medical Center. “And especially with our young people.”

LaValle explained that if the recent case had taken place a year earlier, police might not have had the education or resources to have properly dealt with the situation. The formation of the coalition will offer a new approach to apprehending criminals involved in human trafficking, but another component is creating a strong community awareness—the reason for LaValle’s presentation.

LaValle dispelled several myths about human trafficking, including the presumption that it only affects individuals who come from a poor background.

“Victims are from all socioeconomic classes,” LaValle said. “I can’t say much about the case we just uncovered; we’re very protective of [the victim] and her situation, but it’s definitely not an issue of poverty in her family.”

It also happens closer to home than most people imagine. Local hotels, truck stops, residences and parties are often the scene of sexual encounters.

“People think it’s a world issue,” LaValle said. “Like children taken from Cambodia—and it is—but it’s a big community issue, too.”

While pimps sometimes do use transportation as a tactic to keep victims disoriented in unfamiliar locations, human trafficking occurs just as regularly around the communities where the victims live. In fact, an FBI report found that Minnesota had the 13th highest rate of sex trafficking in the nation, and LaValle explained that much of it has been concentrated in the metropolitan regions of Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth and Rochester. However, law enforcement has noticed an increasing expansion into the suburbs.

“It thrives because there is a very serious demand,” LaValle said. “It used to be just in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, but now these suburban people who have a lot of money are paying $300 to have sex with a minor. That’s where the money is.”

LaValle reported that the young people who are most at risk to become involved in human trafficking are runaways and “throwaway” kids, or children who have left their homes because of neglect or abuse. However, even children with comfortable home lives can become involved: LaValle remembered a mother she had spoken to, concerned about her daughter’s absences.

“Her daughter would disappear for days at a time and come back with her nails done or a new iPod and wouldn’t say where she’d been,” she said. “And she didn’t have a job. These are signs that point to trafficking.”

Among other disturbing statistics, LaValle reported that one of every three runaway children is lured by individuals associated with human trafficking within 48 hours of running

away. Pimps approach children who seem lost and offer them flattery, food, a place to go or other comforting items: debts the victims will be expected to pay off later.

“The grooming would start, the drugs would start, they get addicted and their pimp is the supplier,” LaValle said.

She mentioned the efforts of the Minneapolis Police Department, which has devoted two officers solely to the purpose of preventing and apprehending runaways before the 48-hour mark.

“The goal is to do more proactive work,” LaValle said. “We have to start with law enforcement, teaching them what to look for. We need to train school staff to communicate truancy and possible runaways.”

She also said that police interactions with social services have not been ideal in a few past instances, and training

“It thrives because there is a very serious demand,” LaValle said.

“It used to be just in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, but now these suburban people who have a lot of money are paying $300 to have sex with a minor. That’s where the money is.” on that end would benefit the investigation as well, especially in the area of ensuring victim cooperation. Victims often do not report their situation, usually because their pimps hold a great deal of power over them, and they are afraid or mistrustful of help.

“A lot of times we’re not going to get victims cooperating right away,” LaValle said. Strengthening the training of law enforcement officers and social services workers to react effectively might make the difficult process a little smoother.

Meanwhile, the coalition plans to set up sting operations to begin rooting out the well-hidden trafficking rings.

Looking to advertisements on the Internet is one of the first places they will start.

“The Internet is really the place.” LaValle referenced a website called Backpage.com, where pimps and victims can advertise themselves and arrange sexual encounters with customers, or “johns.”

“It’s almost more work than a homicide case because of all the people involved,” she said.

Other measures to address the sex trade will include working for tougher prosecution of customers and harsher sentences for pimps, as well as providing recovery and rehabilitation resources for victims. Another important step would be to closely monitor youth in the “throwaway” category.

“Starting by logging them as runaways is important,” LaValle said.

“Some kids are in and out of their homes a lot and parents don’t call them in anymore. That’s a red flag.”

Members of the FLAPF mentioned that additional work may need to be put toward preventing human trafficking, in addition to police efforts to halt it once it has already occurred.

“Health classes do address abuse and coercion and toxic relationships,” said FLAPF member Nancy Ellias, who works as the prevention specialist for Forest Lake Area Schools. “But for some of these kids, 10th grade is too late.”

DECEMBER 11, 2015

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Wild Mountain achieves early open despite warm weather

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Enjoying the snow and the scenic beauty of Wild Mountain.

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

Although the weather was off to a late start, Wild Mountain upheld its tradition of being the first ski resort in the Midwest to open for the season on Nov. 20. Vice President Amy Frischmon said she has been keeping track of the opening dates every year since 1985. Typically, the resort opens during the last week of October.

Wild Mountain hasn’t opened this late since Nov. 20, 1991, Frischmon said.

Frischmon admitted that the weather has been a big factor in this unusually late opening. “I can’t complain about the beautiful fall season we had,� she said. “But it’s a hundred percent the weather.�

On the weekend following Thanksgiving, Wild Mountain hosted a Thanksgiving Race Camp.

Frischmon estimated that there were about 75 students racing each day, and said that participants came from all over the region, some as far away as LaCrosse. Since Wild

Mountain typically is available for practices and races a little earlier than other resorts, high school teams often flock there to put in adequate time on the slopes. Frischmon said that space has not been an issue: Wild Mountain is expansive enough to handle the many high school teams and other guests looking for an early start to their winter outdoor sports season.

At its heart, Wild Mountain is a dedicated family business.

Frischmon’s parents first purchased Wild Mountain in 1978; in 1985, ownership passed to Frischmon and her brother, who now run the resort. “My brother and I complement each other; he does the outside stuff, I do the inside stuff,�

Frischmon said. “He makes the snow, and I’m the one who tells everyone about it and gets people to come out and use it.�

And just like the varied activities for Wild Mountain’s guests, the whole family gets involved.

“All of our kids have worked at the resort,� she said, although several of them have gone on into very different careers.

Frischmon’s children are still in high school, and when they’re not practicing or competing with their school ski teams, they sometimes also lend a hand with running Wild Mountain. “We live, breathe, and eat skiing,� she said of her family. “In order to know what we’re giving our guests, it’s important for us to test it out ourselves and enjoy our time out there.� “When you live in Minnesota, people complain about the cold; they hate winter,� Frischmon said. “But that’s because they’re stuck inside, away from the sunlight and fresh air.

If they went skiing, they would have a totally different attitude. They’d learn to love the winter.�

At time of print, 19 of the 26 runs at Wild Mountain are open for sport.

Frischmon said they hope to get at least three or four more ready in the

next few days. “Every year we’re increasing and improving on snowmaking,�

Frischmon said. “It really all depends on the weather, so we want to be best prepared for what kind of weather we’re going to get.�

One upcoming program that Frischmon recommended was the Wild Cat Club, which teaches skiing to children ages 4-12, and snowboarding to children ages 6-12. These two-hour courses, which last for 11 weeks, have already begun for December, but another series of courses will begin in January that will last for eight weeks.

The D-Team is a program for older children, offering competitive opportunities for skiers ages 6-18 and snowboarders ages 8-18. “The real advantage for parents is that it’s not like basketball or other high school sports,� Frischmon said. “You’re not sitting on bleachers; you can go out there with your kids and have fun.�

Stillwater selected as checkpoint for statewide scavenger hunt

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Participants of Checkpoint MN can earn points and prizes for taking photos at 10 destinations around the state; this year includes the gazebo in Lowell Park.

For the third consecutive year, Explore Minnesota, the state’s tourism promotion office, has launched a statewide winter scavenger hunt. Coined “Checkpoint MN,� the event highlights 10 iconic travel destinations in Minnesota this winter season, including Stillwater, the Birthplace of Minnesota.

The checkpoint sign will be installed at the gazebo in Lowell Park just north of the historic Lift Bridge in downtown Stillwater.

The scavenger hunt officially began Dec. 3 and runs through Jan. 31. Its aim is to entice thousands of Minnesota travelers over the course of eight weeks with $35,000 in prizes. Minnesota is the only state to promote a winter tourism-themed scavenger hunt that encompasses a variety of destinations and attractions statewide. More information on the hunt is available at CheckpointMN.com.

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Community Foundation

L

ast Thursday night was the kickoff for the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation that has been created to serve the communities that share the shoreline of White Bear Lake. A group of people who saw a need for a non-profit that could benefit local initiatives and priorities came together to establish the foundation. The board is made up of volunteers from Dellwood, Mahtomedi, Birchwood Village, White Bear Township and White Bear Lake.

When an individual or a family has money they want to give to support their charitable interests, this community foundation can help by distributing the funds Publisher’s annually to numerous causes based on the wishes of the donor.

View This is the easiest way to give to multiple entities you love, unlike Carter Johnson other groups that are specific to a cause. The foundation is not just a fundraising organization, but rather an asset management group for donors. Today some of the same individuals who didn’t initially support the idea are now founding members. The communities of Shoreview, Vadnais Heights and Woodbury have established community foundations in recent years. Though the kick-off event was an informational meeting with no financial request, one individual in attendance shook my hand and said he’ll be sending a hefty check. As you prepare for your future I hope you consider including the community foundation in your plans for charitable giving.

For more information contact director Jackie Reis at jackier@wblfoundation.org .

Sex Offender ordinance Last week the Mahtomedi city council adopted an ordinance limiting where Level 3 sex offenders can live, at the request of hundreds of residents who signed a petition. Unlike Birchwood, where the Mayor refused to participate in the discussion and the council members acted in fear of legal repercussions, Mahtomedi quickly took action on what their residents were requesting. According to the Department of Corrections, Level 3 Sex offenders are not allowed to live in apartment buildings where children live, yet in Birchwood they are allowed to live within feet of a community park where children play. If you think this doesn’t makes sense, reach out to your mayor and city council members to explore how a local ordinance may impact your community.

A special guest Our guest of honor over the holidays this year is my wife’s 97 year-old grandmother. Grandpa passed away in September, and we moved her from Connecticut. Grandma and Grandpa lived in their Danbury, CT home for more than 50 years. Grandpa raised Christmas trees on their property.

It was just a couple of years ago that he told his customers he wasn’t going to plant any more saplings. One family offered to come in the fall and plant saplings for him, which they did. He allowed long-time customers to continue to take a tree right up through last year. After grandpa’s obituary ran in the paper, a woman sent my mother-in-law a letter to tell her how important the tradition of cutting down a tree on grandpa’s lot had been, and how she had sent the obituary to her grown daughter in CA. Another family expressed condolences, as they had gotten trees from grandpa for years.

My mother-in-law told them to go out to the lot and cut down one last tree. The family who is buying Grandma and Grandpa’s home have said they plan to keep the Christmas tree farm operating. I think Grandpa would have been happy about that.

Grandpa’s Christmas trees brought joy to many over the years. It goes to show the various ways, big and small, that we can make an impact in the lives of others. This season I hope your family will take in new memories, start traditions, share stories and celebrate being together.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

Roads contribute to our healthcare crisis

I

know what you’re thinking.

“We have the most dangerous road system in the developed world and we are two to five times as likely to be killed by someone driving a car as a person in Europe.

Duh!” Drivers killed 361 people in Minnesota last year.

That’s bad. But that’s not what I’m thinking about.

We spend over $10,000 per perMovers and son per year on healthcare — Shakers about twice as as other deWalker Angell much veloped countries.

The problem is not our healthcare system though.

We rank quite high in nearly every measure. It’s what we’re putting in to our system—us.

We’ve become fat and sedentary. We have a lower life expectancy than most of the developed world and our quality of life while alive is quite poor; our joints hurt and fail, we have high rates of diabetes, heart ailments, Alzheimer’s, and on and on.

Our bodies are not maintenance-free. Just like if we ignore routine maintenance on our house or car, the costs to fi x our dilapidated bodies are high. Our lack of maintenance causes us to need a lot more healthcare than people elsewhere.

About 70% of U.S. healthcare spending, nearly $7,500 per person each year, is for preventable chronic disease — lifestyle diseases. People who live a moderately healthy lifestyle cost about $2,700 per year for healthcare, the rest considerably more.

Daily activity, 30-60 minutes per day, is critical basic maintenance according to healthcare folks. And apparently the most difficult for us. We can all go to the gym for an hour each day but I’ll not hold my breath for that.

The key is active transportation — walking and bicycling instead of driving. Not 15 miles to work, but a mile or two to Vadnais school, Kowalski’s grocery in White Bear Lake, or LoLo American Kitchen in Stillwater.

We’ll not usually take enough time each day for recreational activity, but we do go places and here’s where traffic engineering comes in. We’ve made walking and bicycling so undesirable that we won’t even walk or ride a half mile. It’s too scary and unpleasant. We jump in our car instead.

People elsewhere, who are much healthier, wouldn’t even consider a car for less than a mile or three.

Look around your community. Can your children safely and comfortably ride their bike to school? Is it appealing for your family to ride to the grocery, church, or out to dinner?

Our communities have become

Walker Angell writes about active transportation and planning topics at Streets.MN and LocalMile.org.

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unhealthy. Their design actively discourages a healthy lifestyle.

And this is expensive and makes them unpleasant.

When Rice Street is rebuilt over I-694 in 2018 will it include safe, protected walking and biking? What about White Bear Avenue under I-694 in 2019? Will children be able to safely ride their bicycles along Beach Road and Paris Avenue in Oak Park Heights after it’s rebuilt next year?

Every Ramsey and Washington County road should be safe, comfortable, and efficient for all users of all abilities. Everyone, young, old, fast, slow, and with disabilities should be able to safely and comfortably walk or bike to local destinations.

If we can be just half effective and reduce preventable costs to $3200 per person, which would still leave us spending more per person than others, that’s $78 million in savings each year just in White Bear Lake; nearly $ 83 million in Shoreview.

We can continue to spend more and more every year fi xing our increasingly poorly maintained bodies or we can make our communities healthier and more appealing places to live.

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DECEMBER 11, 2015

UP NORTH 55+ DRIVER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

When: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Forest Lake Senior Center, 767 SW 4th St., Forest Lake Details: First-time course for motorist’s 55+. Receive discount on auto insurance premium upon completion of course. Bring driver’s license. Pre-register; $24.

Contact: 888-234-1294 or mnsafetycenter.org

LUCIA DAGEN AT GAMMELGARDEN

When: Breakfast at 6 & 8:30 am, Sunday, Dec. 13 Where: 20880 Olinda Trail, Scandia Details: Morning worship and traditional Swedish breakfast and program; marks the beginning of Swedish Christmas season.

Contact: 651-433-5053 or www.gammelgardenmuseum.org

THIRD TUESDAY NIGHT ADULT BOOK CLUB

When: 6:30-8 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 15 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: This month’s book is ‘Leaving Time’

by Jodi Picoult. Red the book and join the discussion. No advance registration necessary.

Contact: 651-275-7300

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

When: 8:30-10 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 19 Where: Famous Dave’s, 43 19th St., Forest Lake Details: Event hosted by the Forest Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Free admission with advance ticket and food shelf donation.

Contact: 651-464-3200 or forestlakechamber.org

STAR WARS JEDI ACADEMY

When: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19

Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Kids grades 5-12 can learn how to be a Jedi and use the force.

Fight Storm Troopers, destroy the Death Star, make your own light saber and more. Costumes welcome. Pre-register.

Contact: 651-275-7300

MERLEN CLERCZ, PAINTING RETROSPECTIVE

When: 4-8 p.m.

Fridays; noon-4 p.m.

Saturdays, through Jan. 16 Where: Hallberg Center for the Arts, 5521 East Viking Blvd., Wyoming Details: Art show features 52 paintings that reflect the artist’s 55 years as an artist, painter, and teacher in Roseville.

Contact: wyoming creativearts.org

OUT EAST HOMETOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 20 Where: Throughout downtown Stillwater Details: Month-long celebration with events and shopping specials at various businesses throughout Stillwater.

Strolling carolers Fridays, 6-9 p.m.; Saturday festivities include Victorian carolers 1-4 p.m., Victorian Wagonette rides 1-4 p.m., and Biercycle caroling tours; strolling Santa noon-4 p.m. both Sat. and Sun. See website for opportunities to have breakfast or lunch with Santa a various local restaurants.

Contact: www. mainstreetstillwater iba.com

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Valley Ridge Mall, Stillwater Details: Santa arrives by fi retruck around 9:15 a.m. Free photos with Santa, crafts, and food.

Contact: valleyridgemall.com/ events

HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOP

When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Thursdays, Dec. 11 & 17; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 11 & 18; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 12 & 19 Where: 5610 Memorial Ave. N., Suite 3, Stillwater Details: Kick-off event includes treats, karaoke, screen-

printing demos. A local collective of goods and crafts, holiday gifts, stocking stuffers and more; open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays prior to Christmas at various times.

Contact: 651-3428242 or facebook.com/ wemakespecial products

VALLEY CHAMBER CHORALE ‘HOPE DESIRED’

When: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11; 4 & 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12; 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 Where: Washington County Historic Courthouse Details: Holiday performance engages all the senses, and includes a premiere of the newly commissioned work, “Christmas Alleluias”

by Norwegian composer Kim Andre Arneson.

Contact: 651430-0124 or valleychamberchorale. org

GUIDED BIRD HIKES

When: 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Lake Elmo Park Reserve Nordic Center, 1515 Keats Ave. N. Details: Learn to identify the birds that call the St. Croix Valley home and contribute to citizen science data collection by completing bird count surveys with a guide. Free with a Washington County parks permit.

Contact: 651-4308370 or parks@ co.washington.mn.us

MYRLAH OLSON

EXHIBIT OPENING RECEPTION

When: 2-4 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Stillwater Public Library, 224 Third St. N. Details: Local artist presents ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’, including 13 pieces in a ‘botanical illustration’ tradition.

Some work has been produced on notecards available for purchase.

Exhibit on display through December.

Contact: 651275-4338 ext. 111 or stillwaterlibrary.org

SLEIGH RIDE

When: 3-6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Outing Lodge at Pine Point, 11661 Myeron Rd. N., Stillwater Details: Oldfashioned horsedrawn sleigh ride, hot chocolate and cookies.

Rides are 20 mins. $15/ adult, $10/child.

Contact: outinglodge. com

STILLWATER ELKS ANNUAL TOUR OF LIGHTS

When: 4:30 –10 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Tour begins and ends at Stillwater Elks Lodge #179, 5880 Omaha Ave., Stillwater Details: 4:30-6 p.m. happy hour.

Bus tour departs at 6 p.m., includes stops at Rice Park, St. Paul Cathedral and Capito,l and Mancini’s for dinner. $15/person or $28/ couple for bus.

Food and beverages extra.

Contact: 651-439-5276

PURSE BINGO

When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 13

Warden’s House Holiday Event WHEN:

um

noon-4 pm Sat., Dec. 12

DETAILS:

WHERE: Warden’s House Muse-

Where: Stillwater Elks Lodge #179, 5880 Omaha Ave., Stillwater Details: Sip & Shop from 15+ vendors.

‘Purse bingo’ sales begin at 12:15, each of 13 games payout a value up to $200 in merchandise, including Coach and Michael Kors handbags and accessories. Bingo packets $26. Food, cash bar available.

Contact: 651-439-5276

CONVERSATIONS OF THE VALLEY

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16 Where: The Grand Banquet Center, 301 S. 2nd St., Stillwater Details: Guest Speaker Dr. Maureen Kennedy Reed, a Stillwater-area resident and director of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum, will speak on ‘Nobel Prize Winners: Unusual Lives & Unexpected Lessons”. Part of the public affairs luncheon series sponsored by the St. Croix Valley Foundation. $17 includes lunch, and must be paid in advance to guarantee reservation.

Contact: scvfoundation.org/ conversations-of-thevalley

EMERALD ASH BORER INFORMATIONAL MEETING When: 6-7:30 p.m.

See the museum decorated for the holidays, visit with local authors, live music.

Thursday, Dec. 17 Where: Washington County Government Center, room LL13, 14949 62nd St. N., Stillwater Details: Hear about local options to deal with the insect and learn how to limit its spread. Experts available to answer questions, and public can provide input about the adoption of an emergency quarantine.

Contact: mda.state. mn.us/eab

WINTERFEST WHITE BEAR LAKE

When: 11 am-3 pm Saturdays, Dec. 12 & 19 Where: Downtown White Bear Lake Details: Horsedrawn carriage rides 11 am-3 pm at 4th and Cook Streets; Photos with Santa 11 am-2 pm at Abbott Paint and Carpet/White Bear Glass. Events free with donation to the White Bear Area Emergency Food Shelf.

Contact: www. downtownwhitebear lake.com/events

HANDMADE CERAMIC ORNAMENTS AND HOLIDAY MUGS

When: 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Phipps Center for the Arts, 109 Locust St., Hudson Details: Popular annual clay workshop for adults with kids

SUBMITTED

CONTACT: 651-439-5956 or www. wchsmn.org

ages 4 and up, to learn basic techniques to make ornaments and mugs. $30/adult and child pair.

Contact: 715-386-2305 or thephipps.org

UNION DEPOT HOLIDAY BAKE SALE

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Union Depot, 214 4th St. E., St. Paul Details: Items from top Twin Cities bakeries, Lowertown Pop (pop-up shop), European Christmas Market, vendors selling gifts and sweets, baking demonstrations.

Admission $5/adult; seniors and kids under 12 free. Proceeds benefit the White Bear Area Emergency Food Shelf. Tickets available online.

Contact: uniondepot. org/bakesale

PAINTING IN THE PARKS FAMILY EDITION

When: 2-4 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Families with children ages 12 and up can receive step-by-step guidance from an artist to paint an acrylic piece to take home. Pre-registration required, $15 and $10 for additional family member.

Contact: 651-429-8007 or anokacounty.us

DECEMBER 11, 2015

www.presspubs.com

THE LOWDOWN

429-5674 or www. lakeshoreplayers.com

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

When: 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays, Dec. 12, 19 & 26; 2 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 13, 20 &27; 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17 Where: Festival Theatre, 210 N. Washington St., St. Croix Falls Details: Performance of the traditional Dicken’s classic. $26/adult, $13.50 youth ages 5-25.

Contact: festival theatre.org

SHOREVIEW NORTHERN LIGHTS VARIETY BAND

SUBMITTED

Kerstmarkt WHEN:

noon-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13

WHERE: Downtown Marine on

DETAILS:

Dutch Christmas market includes traditional wooden huts, local vendors, food, carols, activities and bonfires. Free.

CONTACT:

651-308-6051

St. Croix

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

NEIGHBORHOODS NEARBY 22nd ANNUAL LIVING NATIVITY

When: 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 and 19 Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 E. City Road E., White Bear Lake Details: Live Nativity scene performed by Fools for Christ, live animals and petting zoo.

Family activities and church open house.

Contact: 651-777-1107 or www.ststephenwbl. org/fools

PAINTING IN THE PARKS FAMILY EDITION

When: 2-4 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Families with children ages 12 and up can receive step-by-step guidance from an artist to paint an acrylic piece to take home. Pre-registration required, $15 and $10 for additional family member.

Contact: 651-429-8007 or anokacounty.us

HOLIDAY BIRD COUNT

When: 8:30-11 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Meet at Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Check bird feeders at Wargo Nature Center and throughout Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve. Not

an official Christmas Bird Count, but provides an example of how counts are conducted.

Contact: 651-429-8007 or anokacounty.us

SANTA’S WORKSHOP

When: 9-10 a.m. & 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N. Details: Continental breakfast, craft, and visit with Santa. Preregistration required; no walk-ins.

Contact: 651-490-4700 or shoreviewcommunity center.com

KIDS SECRET HOLIDAY SHOPPING SPREE

Details: Community festival with horsedrawn wagonette rides from 10 a.m.-noon, free entertainment, activities, crafts, food, drawings, services, sales and more.

Contact: http://www. ci.north-saint-paul. mn.us

PET PHOTO NIGHT

When: 7:30-9 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 13 Where: Maplewood Mall, I-694 and White Bear Ave, Maplewood Details: Get a photo of a pet after mall closes.

Contact: maplewoodmall.com

8th ANNUAL ‘BATHROBE DRAMA CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL’

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N. Details: Kids can shop for holiday gifts for family and friends with the help of Parks and Recreation staff and volunteers while parents relax in the fireside lounge. Gifts range from $.50 to $15.

Contact: 651-490-4700 or shoreviewcommunity center.com

When: 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Patsy Miller Studio Theatre, University of Northwestern, 3003 Snelling Ave. N., Roseville Details: Adaptation of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’, including three studentwritten ten-minute plays.

Contact: 651-631-5151 or unwtickets.com

NORTH ST. PAUL HOLIDAY HOP

‘’TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS’

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: North St. Paul businesses

When: 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Benson Great Hall, Bethel University Details: ‘On a Winter’s Night’ holiday concert with guest vocalist Monica Murray.

Free carriage rides from the parking lot at 6:15 p.m. along with pre-concert entertainment performed by small ensembles. Tickets $10 advance or $15 at the door.

Contact: 651-4884074 or snlvb.com

When: 2 and 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 Where: Lakeshore

Players, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake Details: A wild adventure with a mouse, an elf, a spunky little girl, and Santa Claus, this joyful show weaves daring sword fights and perilous airplane flights with heaps of holiday cheer.

Contact: 651429-5674 or www. lakeshoreplayers.com

‘A 1940’S RADIO CHRISTMAS CAROL’

When: Matinee noon3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12; 6-10 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 19 Where: St. Croix Off-Broadway Dinner Theatre, 1616 Crest View Drive, Hudson Details: A 1940’s-era “contemporary” take on Dicken’s ‘A Christmas Carol’. Dinner prior to performance. $62/ person; $30/kids ages 6-12.

Contact: 715-386-2394 ext. 333

‘THE SANTALAND DIARIES’

When: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Lakeshore Players, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake Details: The story of the trials and tribulations of an out of work actor who takes a job as a Macy’s Christmas elf.

Contact: 651-

When: 10 a.m.-noon Sunday, Dec. 13 Where: White Bear Lake American Legion Post #168, 2210 3rd St. Details: Profits go to veterans and veteran’s families. Bring a food donation.

Contact: 651-399-4939

SHOREVIEW INDOOR FARMER’S MARKET

When: 3-6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 15 Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N Details: Features vendors who produce farmstead products such as cheese, meats, fish, poultry, eggs, baked goods, canned goods, honey, maple syrup and preserves.

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

DRAWING COOPERATIVE

When: 7-9 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 17 Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave. Details: Explore different subjects with various artists while learning new drawing techniques. Can work independently or with facilitator. All levels and mediums welcome.

Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org

AUGUSTANA COLLEGE CHRISTMAS VESPERS When: 7 p.m. Friday,

7

Dec. 18 Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi Details: Holiday performance features choirs and orchestra.

Contact: 605-274-5320 or www.augietickets. com

ST. CROIX VALLEY SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA

When: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 19 Where: Phipps Center for the Arts, 109 Locust St., Hudson Details: Boston Popsstyle selections, show tunes, and Christmas classics for all ages.

Tickets $22/adults, $15/ students and youth.

Contact: thephipps. org

HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE PARK

When: 5-10 p.m. nightly, through Jan. 1 Where: Phalen Park, 1615 Phalen Drive E., St. Paul Details: Park will be lit up with holidaythemed displays that visitors can tour from their vehicle. Sponsored by the St. Paul Police Foundation. $10 per vehicle at main gate.

Contact: saintpaulpolice foundation.com

2015 HOLIDAZZLE

When: 5-9 p.m.

Thursdays and Fridays; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 20 Where: Loring Park, 1382 Willow St., Minneapolis Details: Free family event includes local food and beverage vendors, artesian booths, entertainment and fireworks.

Contact: downtownmpls.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

8

&

THE LOWDOWN

www.presspubs.com

The Forest Lake Police Department reported the following incidents:

Arrest/Citation • A K-9 unit was requested to investigate a vehicle on 210th St. N and Imperial Ave. N on Nov. 27. The officer on the scene detected the odor of marijuana, and the dog alerted officers to several locations in the vehicle, where they found three packages containing marijuana as well as a hitter pipe.

• A 19-year-old Circle Pines man was pulled over for driving conduct on Highway 97 on Nov. 27. Officers detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, and the driver admitted to smoking it 20 minutes earlier. A vehicle search revealed two marijuana pipes as well as a hypodermic needle and a white crystal substance. The passenger in the car was issued a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia, and was released and allowed to drive the vehicle home. Police took the driver into custody to be held for possession of a controlled substance and possession of a hypodermic needle.

• A 52-year-old Forest Lake man was pulled over for his speed on Nov. 26.

The driver admitted to drinking and agreed to a test that showed a 0.11 blood alcohol level. He was arrested for DUI. Officers also found a quantity of marijuana with rolling papers and a glass pipe inside the vehicle.

Isaiah Dobson obson

651-482-1322

Lakes International Language Academy expands to grades 9-12 MAPLEWOOD

T TOYOTA

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Forest Lake girls hockey y M Maddie and the offense for th the FForest Lake girs’ hockey team w were hitting on all cylinders a against Roseville. The junior fforward had three goals and a p pair of assists in a 7-5 Suburban E East Conference victory over the R Raiders.

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Other • Officers responded to a complaint of a possible intoxicated male attempting to pedal a bike on a bike trail near Olive Street and Pine Tree Trail on Nov. 29. Officers located the party and ultimately transported him to detox.

• An officer responded to a possible intoxicated driver/traffic complaint on New England Place on Nov. 28.

After locating the party, the officer found the vehicle parked and the driver sleeping. The officer advised and transported the party to their Stillwater residence.

• An officer responded to a suspicious findings report in an alley by Freight House in the 300 block of Water Street on Nov. 28. A party reported a parked vehicle with an open door. Upon the officers’ arrival to the area, there was no vehicle matching the description.

• An officer responded to a property damage accident involving one vehicle and a deer at Owens Street N. and Sycamore Street on Nov. 26. The vehicle sustained minor damage. No injuries were reported.

• Officers responded to a possible underage drinking party on Judd Trail on Nov. 26. Officers arrived, advised and cleared.

• An officer responded to report of road hazard on the 600 block of Hidden Valley Court on Nov. 24. Water was flowing into the street from a nearby property that was draining excess water from a pool. The officer advised.

Y

maplewoodtoyota.com • maplewoodscion.com

Maddie Kolbow w

Theft • An officer responded to a report of a vehicle that had been rummaged through in the 600 block Northland Ave. on Nov. 24. The vehicle had been unlocked and miscellaneous change was taken.

• An individual used a cab service to arrive to Stillwater at the 1200 block of Sterling Way, but had no way to pay the cab fare on Nov. 29. An agreement was made between the cab driver and the party on a date to pay the fare by. Officer advised that failure to pay the fare will result in a theft charge.

• Officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle on the 200 block of Second Street N. on Nov. 28. After further investigation, an outside agency located and recovered the vehicle.

• An officer responded to a theft of gasoline report from the Kwik Trip on Settlers Way on Nov. 28. After further investigation, a 28-year-old female from Mahtomedi was issued a citation for theft.

• Officers responded to a theft of a motor vehicle in the 800 block of Fourth Street S. on Nov. 27. A vehicle was stolen sometime during the late night hours. This is currently under investigation.

• Two backpacks were taken from an unlocked vehicle on the 1200 block of Frontage Road W. on Nov. 24. No suspect information at this time.

Arrest/Citation • Officers received information about an individual with a warrant out for his arrest in the 1000 block of Third Street S on Nov. 27. After confirming the warrant, officers arrested a 15-year-old male on an outstanding warrant. The male was transported to the Washington County Jail for booking.

OIX V ALLE

Isaiah sparked offense for the Stillwater boys’ basketball team in their rout of Moorhead.

The senior had a game-high 17 points in a 62-36 Pony triumph.

Minnesota’s #1 Volume Toyota Dealer!

Per Toyota Motor Sale USA 2014

The Stillwater Police Department reported the following incidents: Disturbance • Officers responded to a disturbance involving neighbors on the 1100 block of Curve Crest Blvd. on Nov. 23. Officers arrived and advised the parties before clearing.

ST. CR

Stillwater boys basketball asketball s chosen by press staf *Athlete f

Athlete

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Week

Theft • Miscellaneous items, including two laptops, an AR-15 rifle with a scope, approximately 1,000 rounds of ammunition, and rifle magazines were reported stolen sometime between Nov. 10 and Nov. 29. Police are acquiring the serial number on the rifle, but there are no suspects and no sign of forced entry.

• Police noticed a parked car and discovered that the vehicle had been reported stolen on Dec. 1. Officers followed footprints from the driver’s side door to a nearby house, where two occupants in the back porch refused to let them in. The police ultimately gained permission to enter, where they found a 26-year-old male who was wearing boots that matched the prints observed earlier.

Police arrested the man and searched the vehicle, recovering several of the suspect’s personal items. When he was transported to the Washington County Jail, jailers located a pipe on his person that tested positive for meth. The individual was booked for receiving stolen property and possession of a controlled substance.

• A Forest Lake man reported a theft from his vehicle while parked outside Houle’s Feed Mill on Nov. 27. He had two sets of keys: one that opened the doors and one that started the car. He left the vehicle unlocked and the door keys inside while he went to visit a local business. When he returned, he noticed that $150 had been taken, and his set of side-by-side speakers was missing. The door keys were in the ignition and the key was snapped off, most likely from someone trying to start the vehicle with the wrong key.

There was no damage to the vehicle

and no serial information for the stolen speakers. Another vehicle was reported stolen around the same time.

• A vehicle was reported stolen from the Holiday station on Broadway Ave. W. on Nov. 28. After officers conducted a search for the vehicle, they were contacted by St. Paul police, who had recovered the vehicle. Police took a St. Paul man into custody for the crime.

DECEMBER 11, 2015

MAPLEWOOD

T TOYOTA

Lakes International Language Academy (LILA) in Forest Lake recently announced plans to expand its Upper School to include grades 9-12 in the fall of 2016 with a language-infused curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate program. LILA opened to grades 6-8 this past fall at the school’s new Headwaters Campus in Forest Lake, which is also the location for LILA’s high school. The addition of high school completes LILA’s initiative to provide pre-K to grade 12 programming.

Students in grades 6-8 from any Minnesota school district do not need a language immersion background to enroll at LILA’s Upper School. Instead, new world language-learners can opt for fast-track programs in Spanish, Mandarin and French. In addition, language-proficient Upper School students can select from several immersion courses in Spanish (and eventually immersion Mandarin).

“We offer small class sizes and a safe, caring, and internationally-minded community,” said Director Shannon Peterson. “At the Upper School, we support real-world learning with 21st-century technology, including an iPad for each student to use at school and home during the school year and experience

with 3-D printing.”

The high school provides post-secondary education options (PSEO) and other accelerated learning opportunities that allow LILA students to earn college or technical school credit while in high school.

LILA’s Upper School will offer sports and after-school activities similar to other high school programs. In addition, high school students can take driver’s education at a discounted fee and choose I-Terms that may include internships, travel or study abroad.

Tour and information sessions for grades 6-12 are scheduled for Jan. 7 at 8:30 a.m. and Jan. 11 at 6 p.m. before the Jan. 15 enrollment lottery at the Headwaters Campus, 19850 Fenway Ave. N., in Forest Lake.

Lakes International Language Academy continues to offer full immersion Mandarin and Spanish programs for K-5 at the Main Campus as part of its International Baccalaureate curriculum.

Tour and information session for prospective 2016 kindergarteners will be held at the Main Campus, 246 11th Ave. S.E., in Forest Lake, on Dec. 14 at 6 p.m., Jan. 5 at 8:30 a.m. and Jan. 12 at 6 p.m.

From press release

DECEMBER 11, 2015

THE LOWDOWN

www.presspubs.com

9

Forest Lake district’s 2016 levy increases reflect bond vote School district still claims low-taxing chops of $377,000 and deferred maintenance cost reductions of $1.8 million.

In addition, initial levy amounts in many categories are based on estimates of enrollment, values, and expenditures for future years, numbers that are subject to change and often do. For a median-value home of $200,000, the property taxes in Forest Lake averaged out to be $726, which is below the state average of $827. The average school district tax on the median $200,000 home increased from $649 to $654. Because the $143 million bond referendum passed in November, the tax bill for that $200,000 home increased an additional $72 to $726.

Martini’s budget presentation included other highlights. Excluding capital expenditures, the Forest Lake District spends $9,173 per pupil, which is lower than many neighboring districts and lower than the state average of $10,125 per pupil. This per-pupil spending ranks 229 th in the state, Martini said.

Since 2003, the state general education revenue formula has not kept pace with inflation, Martini noted. For example, the Legislature approved an increase of 2 percent per year for the fi scal years 2016 and 2017. This amounts to a per-pupil allowance increase of $119 for 2017 when that allowance would need to increase by $626, or 10.3 percent, to have kept pace with inflation, he said.

All the school district’s budgets are divided into seven separate funds: general, food service, community service, building construction,

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Although the successful $143 million bond referendum will cause an increase in next year’s levy, the Forest Lake School District is still one of the lowest taxing entities around. Larry Martini, the district’s director of business services, presented the details during a 40-minute budget and levy presentation at the school board’s annual Truth in Taxation hearing Dec. 3.

Forest Lake School Board members certified the 2015 payable 2016 property tax levy of $19,495,261. Despite an invitation to the public, there were no residents in attendance.

The 2016 proposed property tax levy of $19.5 million represents a 15.2 percent increase from 2015. This total differs from the preliminary proposed levy approved by the board in September because voters approved the bond referendum on Nov. 3, Martini said.

There are several reasons why the budget and levy fi gures were greatly altered by the time the board approved the fi nal budget and levy, Martini said.

Voter-approved debt service increased the budget by $1.8 million for payment on bonds after district voters approved the bond referendum. Required debt service levy for the estimated fiscal year 2016-17 bond payments related to the new debt is $2.1 million. A long-term facilities maintenance increase of $2.2 million was offset by health and safety cost reductions

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debt service, other post employment benefits (OPEB), debt service and the OPEB trust fund. The general fund takes up 83.1 percent of the budget pie at $71.3 million.

Board Chair Rob Raphael thanked Martini and his staff for their work.

“They do a great job trying to save taxpayers money by refi nancing and making every penny count.”

In other actions, the board: Accepted $3,377.14 in cash and two electric Stryker cots valued at $3,500 as donations over the past month.

Chad Dotzler of Hennepin County Medical Center donated the cots to Forest Lake High School to use with the EMS program. Forest Lake Full Court Club donated $2,144.09 to the high school boys’ basketball program to pay for a B-squad assistant coach.

Approved Workload Limits for Certain Special Education Teachers Policy #410. School districts are required by Minnesota statute to have a policy determining workload limits of special education staff providing services to students receiving direct special education services for 60 percent or less of the instruction day.

Approved appointments to Extra Curricular Positions Policy #420, with a number of changes.

Approved Student Sex Nondiscrimination Policy #421 with no changes.

Students are protected from discrimination on the basis of sex, according to Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments and the Minnesota Human Rights Act. The policy must be reviewed on a regular basis.

Approved Wellness Policy #546

with two changes pertaining to the prohibition of deep-fried foods. All districts receiving funding from the federal school lunch program are required by the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 to have a wellness policy that includes nutrition guidelines and physical activity goals.

Conducted the fi rst reading of Technology Acceptable Use and Safety Policy #540. The policy, which needs to be reviewed periodically, is presented with one recommended change. The change states that it is prohibited for students or employees to try to bypass the district fi lter without permission.

Conducted the fi rst reading of a new policy, Chemical Use and Abuse Policy #443, to assist the district in its goal to prevent chemical use and abuse by providing procedures for education and intervention. The policy is not discretionary, but reflects mandatory provisions of state and federal law.

Conducted the fi rst reading of a proposed new course for the 2016-17 school year: Chinese V. During the 2012-13 school year, Chinese I was added to the courses offered by the World Language DepartmentAfter progressing through the fi rst four courses. Those students are now ready for the next course in the sequence.

The board next meets at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 7 at the District Center, 6100 210 th St. N.

10

THE LOWDOWN

DECEMBER 11, 2015

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LUCIA DAGEN: Winter festival carries on Swedish tradition FROM PAGE 1

However, the historic building usually remains closed for the winter months—except for this one special occasion.

It begins with a pre-dawn church service, held in the tiny church opened precisely for that purpose. The service is entirely candlelit, and there is no heat in that small, historic building.

“But we have plenty of warm hearts in there, so it’s very cozy,” Erickson said.

The Svenskarnas Dag Girls Choir from the American Swedish Institute provides a concert. One of the singers is crowned Lucia, donning the traditional dress and candle crown. The choir performs traditional Swedish carols with a little bit of dancing, and everyone is dressed up for the occasion.

“They have a Lucia, she has her attendants, the little boys carry star candles and they’re the Star Boys, and the littlest children dress up as tomtens,” Erickson said. “Lots of people wear their folk costumes. It kind of seems like time forgot this town, so it feels like you’re over the river and through the woods.”

Afterward, everyone walks together to a warm building for a big breakfast of traditional dishes, honoring St. Lucia’s miraculous appearance to feed the starving people of Sweden.

Erickson explained that part of the reason Lucia Day regained popularity was due to the American Girl Doll series of books. The character Kirsten is part of a pioneer family from Sweden who settled in Minnesota in the 1800s. In the course of the story, Kirsten dresses up for the Lucia celebration with the traditional candle headdress. In fact, Erickson said that the author of the Kirsten books, Janet Shaw, reportedly conducted some of her research at the Gammelgarden museum before the book’s publication in 1986.

“That’s why so many of the backgrounds kind of look like this place,” Erickson said.

Gammelgarden’s celebration has become a destination for those who crave the Swedish tradition.

“People attend from all over the state,” Erickson said. “There aren’t very many of these anymore.”

The Gammelgarden also hosts Lucia Tea Parties throughout the month of December. Young girls come with their mothers and grandmothers, bringing their dolls.

“We focus on the legend of Lucia, and the girls can try on a Lucia outfit and do crafts related to Christmas in Sweden,” Erickson said.

JULIE ERICKSON | GAMMELGARDEN MUSEUM

Above: A crowd gathers for the pre-dawn candlelit service in the Gammelkyrkan, the oldest Lutheran church in Minnesota.

Right: Sampling traditional Swedish dishes at the breakfast following morning prayer service.

If You Go What: Lucia Dagen service and Celebration Where: Gammelgarden Museum, 20880 Olinda Trail, Scandia When: Sunday, Dec. 13, 6 a.m. & 8:30 a.m. services, both followed by breakfast Price: The morning service is free, but breakfast is $12 for adults and $5 for children under 12

E x c l u s i v e l y F o r Yo u , O u r V a l u e d C u s t o m e r !

CELEBRATE Your Holiday Entertaining For Less ALL In Stock Authentic Amish Dining Sets

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Delivery before Christmas!

2159 Curve Crest Blvd. W., Stillwater, MN OPEN: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm • Sat 10am-5pm • Sun 11am-5pm

651-439-2110 www.SimonetFurniture.com

DECEMBER 11, 2015

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Spotlight on Business

Happy Spa-lidays!

Gifts for everyone

Celebrating on your27 list!years!

Just For ...theMeSpa 110 S. Greeley St., Stillwater

651.439.4662 See our website at

Real Fitness for Real People

Big enough to have everything, small enough to know your name!

Gift Ideas from Just For Me Spa Looking for the ideal gift for that special someone? Or maybe you’ll put this one on your wish list—a gift of relaxation with a Just For Me Spa gift card. This onesize-fits-all gift card never expires and is perfect for everyone on your list!

Now through Dec. 31, when you purchase a $100 or more gift card, you’ll receive a free travel-size Stress-Fix body crème (with in-store gift card purchases only). Gift cards may be purchased online, in person or by phone.

Indoor & Outdoor Pools Free Childcare with Family Membership 60 Group Fitness Classes Red Cross Swim Lessons Large Cardio & Weights Areas

1826 Northwestern Ave. Stillwater • 651-439-7611 rivervalleyathleticclub.com

FRESHEN UP YOUR DIET IN 2016

CSA Sign Up Limited Space Available Sign up soon!

Community Supported Agriculture Members will receive a box of our super fresh, locally grown veggies every week for 16 weeks!

Get more info or Sign up at:

www.costafarm.com

SM

Jeanne M. Anderson – Experienced Listener, Experienced Attorney Minnesota & Wisconsin Wills, Trusts & Estates, Real Estate, Personal Injury Business Law, Contracts, Succession Planning Jeannemanderson@ stillwater-attorney.com

651-439-1389 226 Myrtle Street East Stillwater, MN 55082 www.stillwater-attorney.com

As the premier spa in the St. Croix area, Just For Me Spa’s warm furnishings and soothing aromatherapy set the tone for the ultimate in rejuvenation. Guests choose from a myriad of Spa treatments: massage, body wraps, body polishes, facials, nail treatments and hair services.

Any of their Spa packages, designed to provide an exceptional journey of total renewal, would please even the hardestto-buy-for person.

Or consider giving the gift of health this year. Just For Me Spa offers personal training packages (with the largest private training studio in the area), studio classes and an option to use its fitness equipment and pool area under their new punch-card system. There are no

contracts or long-term commitments, just a pay-as-you-go alternative that includes 10 and 12-visit punch cards or a one-time-use fee.

Another Spa-tacular gift idea is a Spa membership! Each month, the lucky person who receives this will choose either a massage, facial or pedicure (the length of that service depends on the membership level; pricing starts at $39/month). They also receive 20% off Aveda and Bumble product, and these items which never go on sale: Dermalogica, glo-minerals makeup, Moroccanoil products and Usana nutritionals. In addition, Spa members get 20% off personal training, the weight management program, “Release”, and 10 or 12-visit punch cards.

Just For Me Spa also has gift packages of Aveda soaps and lotions wrapped in copper-colored bags with holiday trims, starting at $18.

So stop by Just For Me Spa, 110 S. Greeley Street, to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list or visit their website at www.justformespa.com for more.

Just For...theMe Spa 651-439-4662 110 S. Greeley St., Stillwater www.justformespa.com

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DECEMBER 11, 2015

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Reel talk Don’t Miss!

Stillwater offers $10,000 for a great idea

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

Worth a Look Forget it

Good

“CHI-RAQ”

(R) (2)

[STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT INCLUDING DIALOGUE, NUDITY, LANGUAGE, SOME VIOLENCE, AND DRUG USE.]

— A despondent mother (Jennifer Hudson) grieves the tragic death of her 11-year-old daughter due to gun violence in Chicago and desperately begs any witnesses to come forward in this down-toearth, violent, quirky, star-dotted (John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, D.B. Sweeney) Spike Lee satire. Based on Aristophanes’s Greek comedy “Lysistrata,” the gorgeous girlfriend (Teyonah Parris) of a rapper (Nick Cannon) reaches out to other lovers (Ebony Joy, et al. ) of gang members (Wesley Snipes, et al.) and concerned women (Angela Bassett, et al.) to withhold sexual relations in an attempt to stop the senseless killings and the nonstop war between rival Spartans and Trojans.

“CREED” (PG-13) (3.5)

[VIOLENCE, LANGUAGE, AND SOME SENSUALITY.]

— Fists fly in this compelling, entertaining, violent film in which a wannabe boxer (Michael B. Jordan) worries his mother (Phylicia Rashad), who adopted him as a troubled youth, when he quits his job in Los Angeles and moves to Philadelphia. There he trains with legendary boxer Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) to take on a rival (Tony Bellew) in the World Heavyweight Boxing championship and falls in love with a beautiful woman (Tessa Thompson) he meets at his apartment building.

“LEGEND” (R) (2.5)

[STRONG VIOLENCE, LANGUAGE THROUGHOUT, SOME SEXUAL, AND DRUG MATERIAL.]

— A heavy, hard-to-understand English brogue detracts from this factually based, violent, star-studded (Christopher Eccleston, Joshua Hill, Paul Anderson) film. Based on John Pearson’s novel “The Profession of Violence,” the film depicts the infamous criminal careers of hotheaded, gun-toting twin British gangster brothers (Tom Hardy), one a mentally unstable homosexual and the other a dapper lady’s man, as they terrorize London’s East End in the 1960s.

“THE WONDERS”

(NR) (2.5)

[SUBTITLED]

— An unusual Italian coming-of-age film released in 2014 features an irresponsible, downon-his-luck Tuscan beekeeper (Sam Louwyck) with a wife (Alba Rohrwacher) and four daughters who takes in a mute German boy (Luis Huilca Logrono) and ends up competing on the popular Countryside Wonder reality television show with a gorgeous host (Monica Belluci).

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.

©1986 through 2015 by Wendy Schadewald

The Stillwater Area Foundation (SAF) is offering $10,000 to any person or group with an original idea that benefits the Stillwater community. This is the fourth year that the SAF has offered this grant. In the past, winners of the Great Idea challenge have included the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, which created a historical medallion project, a group that provided the city with a new dog park, and the Pollinator Friendly Alliance, which established new pollinator-friendly gardens and habitats.

The criteria are simple and, according to SAF Treasurer Eric St. Martin, entrants don’t even have to be a Stillwater resident. The only qualifications are that the idea must be innovative, enhance the quality of life in Stillwater, strengthen community connections and enhance community pride.

Proposals are submitted to a committee formed by the SAF. Those committee members then present the ideas to the members of the board. Ultimately, the board selects the idea it believes best fits the criteria.

Shannon nright, the vice chair of the board, said that it is a critical time for Stillwater residents as they prepare for the effect that the St. Croix Crossing bridge will have on the community when it opens to traffic.

“In the big picture, Stillwater is at a pivotal time,” Enright said. “With the new bridge coming in, you hear people talking here and there about what they hope to see change or stay the same. We want to tap into those neighboring conversations and put some muscle behind it; make it a reality.”

St. Martin said that the grant was inspired by similar efforts in St. Paul, where a program called the Forever Saint Paul Challenge hosts a million-dollar idea contest. While the Stillwater Area Foundation’s fund pool isn’t quite as deep, the award has doubled from the past years’ amount of $5,000. In addition to the increase in money, the Stillwater Area Foundation is also introducing a new initiative to provide instruction in grant writing to applicants.

“Some of [the applications] are very well written, and sometimes it’s just the germ of a really, really good idea,” said Enright. The board didn’t feel that it was fair to throw out some of these ideas just because the applicants did not have experience with grant writing.

The coaching initiative will assist applicants by teaching them the tools they need to draft a well-written proposal. Coaches will include members from the foundation’s board as well as professional grant writers.

Enright said that there were a number of unique ideas submitted last year, and expects that some of the applicants will be returning to try again. According to St. Martin, between 10 and 20 people submit proposals each year, and he hopes to see an increase due to anticipation of the bridge completion, and with the doubled award as an incentive.

“I would expect to generate a lot more ideas this year, since there’s a little bit more money on the line. We expect to see some people resubmit from last year.”

Several of last year’s proposals, Enright said, focused on the Gateway Brown’s Creek bike trail, and he expects there will be more of them submitted to the 2016 challenge. He also hopes to see the program expand to offer even more money and to attract even more applicants in the future.

“If this goes well, we’ve got some traction now and we could possibly up the amount to 25 grand. Our goal is really to get more community involvement,” he said.

The SAF is an affiliate of the St. Croix Valley Foundation, created when locals expressed an interest in keeping their donations as local to Stillwater as possible. It

STILLWATER AREA FOUNDATION

Last year’s winner of the Great Idea Challenge, the Pollinator Friendly Alliance, used the grant to create pollinator-friendly habitats and increase its education efforts.

is dedicated to returning the generosity of Stillwater residents to their own community.

“You know your dollars are going to your neighbors,” Enright said.

Applications for the Great Idea Challenge will be accepted beginning in January. Coaching sessions will be offered in February to prepare applicants for the final submission in April 2016. To learn more or apply, visit the Stillwater Area Foundation website at www.stillwaterareafoundation.org.

STOP IN & SAVE SERVICE SPECIALS

COOLANT SYSTEM $ SERVICE ONLY 99.95 • Complete Flush • Replacement of all coolant • Conditioner to fortify Incl.

Some models slightly higher, see service advisor for more information. Expires 12/31/15

4 OIL CHANGES ONLY $

85.00

TIRE ROTATION

$9.99

Service includes up to 5 quarts oil & new filter with each oil change. Tax & shop supplies extra. Expires 12/31/15

Dual rear tires slightly higher.

Expires 12/31/15

NOW OPEN 12969 60th St. No. Stillwater MN

651-777-0300 • 800-717-1316 W W W. F U RY M OTO R S . C O M

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HOLIDAY Yarn • Classes & Parties • Artisan gifts

Buy $100 in gift cards and get a $10 gift card free

!

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GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! 3955 Highway 61 WBL, MN • 651-426-4518 • mnwholesaletireandwheel.com

Purchase

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FRESHEN UP YOUR DIET IN 2016

CSA Sign Up Limited Space Available

Sign up soon!

Community Supported Agriculture Members will receive a box of our super fresh, locally grown veggies every week for 16 weeks! Get more info or Sign up at:

www.costafarm.com

Phone: 651-633-1777 Website: flahertysbowl.com

1845 E Co. Rd D, Maplewood • 651-777-4500 • www.pizzaranch.com h com

‘Tis the Season for Natural and Unique Gifts

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(651)483-8296 Offer Expires 12/31/2015

Indulge Salon and Spa

TOUSLEYMOTORSPORTS.COM

2183 3rd Street | WBL | 651-797-6440 1400 EAST COUNTY ROAD E • WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

HappyHOLIDAYS from your friends at First Resource Bank!

LINO LAKES 7449 Village Drive 651-785-9320 www.firstresourcemn.com Member FDIC

The Uncommon Business Bank

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Calendar of Events Marie Studios Santa Event.

Sunday, December 13th - Strolling Santa noon - 4pm, Breakfast Buffet with Santa at Water Street Inn, Lunch with Santa at the Dock Cafe.

Friday, December 18th - Strolling Vicorian Carolers 6-9pm.

Saturday, December 19th - Breakfast Buffet with Santa at Water Street Inn, Strolling Santa noon - 4pm, Victorian Carolers 1-4pm, Victorian Wagonette Rides 1-4pm, BierCycle Caroling Tours.

Sunday, Decmeber 20th - Strolling Santa noon - 4pm.

Saturday, December 26th - BierCycle Caroling Tours.

mainstreetstillwaterIBA.com

Scene on Main The holiday season is upon us and the Mainstreet Stillwater IBA is proud to present a full slate of family friendly events to celebrate this year’s Hometown for the Holidays.

This is a perfect time of year to think shop local/shop small at your favorite Stillwater Mainstreet IBA member shops, and restaurants. So, If it has been awhile since your last visit, we invite you and your family to come on down and see all that is new. We’re here just for you!

Friday, December 11th - Strolling Victorian Carolers 6-9pm.

Saturday, December 12th - Strolling Santa noon - 4pm, VictorianCaeolers 1-4pm, Victorian Wagonette Rides 1-4pm, Lunch with Santa at the Dock Cafe, BierCycle Caroling Tours, Nina

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

20

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