the courier - december 2012

The Courier

December 2012 | Volume 20, Issue 5 Free

a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education & Services | St. Francis, Minnesota

December What’s Insideschools in Action .........................................2school board Highlights ........................12community education ...........................14community & business ..........................17special section ..........................................17sports & outdoors....................................31life .................................................................34classified ......................................................36

Scarecrows were constructed recently by St. Francis Elementary School students in an after school enrichment class. Cathy Thunburg taught the class offered by Independent School District 15 Community Education. The scarecrows greeted all who attended the SFES fall celebration.

nAncy messerscHmIDt, IsD 15 communIty eD

Season’s Greetings PAGE 17 www.ThE-CourIEr.orG

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rhodes Scholarship awarded to SFhS alumnus

Clayton Aldern, a senior at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island and a 2009 graduate of St. Francis High School, was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship November 17. Aldern was selected as one of 32 American Rhodes Scholars from a pool of 838 students that were nominated by their universities. He will attend the University of Oxford in England next fall.

At Oxford, Aldern will pursue a masters and a doctorate in neuroscience. He hopes to study the algorithms responsible for brain-computer interfaces, technology that is capable of converting a paralyzed patient’s thought into prosthetic action.

Aldern is currently studying neuroscience at Brown under Dr. Rebecca Burwell. His current research focuses on the intersection between visual discrimination and decision-making—that is, being able to identify an object for what it is, link that object to an action and follow through with that action. His honors thesis consists of computationally modeling these relationships in rats.

As a Meiklejohn Peer Advisor, Aldern serves on the leadership committee for that program. Additionally, he serves as a Writing Fellow and as a teaching assistant for Dr. Stephen McGarvey’s Burden of Disease in Developing Countries and Dr. Thomas Serre’s Computational Vision courses. He is the editor-in-chief of Post, a weekly arts and culture magazine. Interested in the intersection between neuroscience, technology, and culture, he

blogs at Science2.0, an online science writing community.

Aldern, 22, recently presented his neuroscience research at the International Society for Neuroscience annual conference, held this year in New Orleans October 12-17. The work will be submitted to several academic journals later this year.

Outside of the neuroscience sphere, Aldern has conducted international health research in Western Samoa under Dr. McGarvey, director of Brown’s International Health Institute.

Currently, he is working on a research project under Dr. Judith Bentkover at the Brown Center for Gerontology’s Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, in collaboration with disease-targeted research nonprofit One Mind for Research. The current work concerns treatment evaluation and access for post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury patients. Under Dr. Bentkover, he also develops curricular material for the new Brown

Executive Master in Healthcare Leadership program.

A native of Cedar, Aldern is passionate about neuroscience research and improving American scientific literacy. Aside from researching the brain, his work at Oxford will consist of studying science communication and access to academia. He can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @compatibilism

Clayton Aldern

2 The Courier | DeCember 2012 | www.The-Courier.org

Schools in Action School Board Highlights PAGE 12

Community Education PAGE 14

Superintendent’S CornerEdwArd SAxton

Dear Village Bank Customers,AppreciationIt is with great appreciation that we thank you for your continued support of Village Bank! Our bank vision is “to create lasting relationships built on trust and integrity and to make dreams come true.” We value the trust you have placed in our bank and are honored to have you as bank customers. We look forward to many more years of serving you and our communities.

Dear Village Bank Staff,GratitudeIt is with profound gratitude that we thank you for your continued service and dedication to Village Bank. We feel honored to have a group of employees who believe in the spirit of serving our customers and communities. We thank you for the tremendous determination you have shown in these challenging economic times.

Our Wish to AllTo all, we wish a very Merry Christmas and happy holiday season for you, your families and your friends. We invite you to rejoice in the season and celebrate all that is good!

Thank you and Merry Christmas,Don & JamieVillage Bank Owners Anoka-Ramsey

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Time. Whenever I suggest devoting time to an endeavor, I can’t help but recall a long conversation I had with my mother about 30 years ago. I was explaining to her how busy I was and how many things I thought “should be” done but were placed in the “might do” column on my

to-do list. My mom wasn’t real big on why things couldn’t be done. Obviously, she was more interested in why and how they would be done. She shared, “The word ‘time’ can be an explanation or excuse for just about anything.”

Time is often the subject of personification. Select the word time, add an action verb, and watch the idea become crystal clear. We give the concept of time many avenues to explain our actions. When I asked for clarification of the definition of time, several interesting pairs surfaced:}time (is your friend/enemy)}time (flies/stands still)}time (waits for no one/

comes to a screeching halt)}time (has been good to you/

is cruel)

Enough said. This list could be endless, but the intent of this article is not to record the usage; it is rather to explore the true meaning behind the rhetoric.

Prioritizing the utilization of time is a skill we teach those around us. Those folks could be students, coworkers, family members, or virtually anyone we have in our circle of influence. People are observant. Considering how time is allocated often paints an accurate picture of what we value. One positive activity for learners is reflection: thinking about what went well or what needs work, etc. These exercises in thought allow us to continue what is productive and address the issue standing in the way of progress.

For the purpose of reflection, the end of November brings one of three benchmarks for students, their families, and our staff. Reporting student progress reminds us of the importance of reflection. This activity affords us an opportunity to be encouraged, to redirect, and to respond in a collection of positive directions. Most importantly, we encourage families to engage in dialogue about what is happening in our schools.

We are entering a transition phase in our district. The end of our first trimester brings a culmination of students’ progress for their first 12 weeks of scholastic achievement. Report cards were completed at the end of last week and

were sent home shortly thereafter. Please review progress and devote some time to communicating with your student about your questions or concerns. Even if everything is right on track, students appreciate the discussion.

The month of December brings multiple opportunities for students to gain an appreciation for time. In addition, the importance of strategic use of each day becomes a priority. Tightly-packed schedules blend school responsibilities, academic and athletic tournaments, family commitments, and more.

Time becomes a commodity. We are asked to invest it, to save it, or to spend it. We are encouraged to do so in a thoughtful manner. We see advertisements at every turn. All systems are go, go, go…Almost makes you tired, just reading it.

If my mother were here, she would say, “Let’s all take a collective deep breath. Please remember ‘time’ isn’t the true issue; it’s more so the way we choose to allocate it.” Each day, every one of us receives the same allotment of minutes. We will use these minutes to shape our experiences. Please use them wisely; they are non-refundable.

Have a great December.

The Courier | DeCember 2012 | www.The-Courier.org 3

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Keep Warm This WinTer!

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St. FranciS Middle School

JESSiE rowlESSFMS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

On the afternoon of October 31, all 6th and 8th grade students from St. Francis Middle School had the opportunity to watch a performance of a play called Social Security by James Rone, presented by CLIMB Theatre of Inver Grove Heights. The play dealt with social cliques, gossip and exclusion in schools. The CLIMB Theatre performance was funded by the middle school Site Management Council. CLIMB Theatre has visited SFMS annually for a number of years.

On CLIMB’s website www.climb.org, they describe themselves as a nationally-recognized non-profit company that has been in existence for 38 years and performs for K-12 students. Its theatre participants write, produce and present plays of drama on topics such as bullying, self-control, respect and the environment. CLIMB reaches nearly 150,000 students annually in Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, North Dakota and Iowa.

CLIMB’s work is not only entertaining, but educational. Independent research has shown that young people learn and change their way of thinking and even their behavior because of watching some of the shows CLIMB performs.

Students had an opportunity after the performance to ask the actors questions about what they do in CLIMB Theatre as well as answer about themselves personally. The actors also asked students for participation in the audience to think about particular events and characters from

CliMB theatre visits middle schoolthe play they had just viewed. Many students joined the

conversation and enjoyed watching the performance.

Actors from the locally based CliMB theatre performed a play called Social Security to middle schoolers in october. the theater company provides thought-provoking entertainment for kindergarten to 12th grade audiences. SubMitted Photo


Sponsored by the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commercewww.stfrancischamber.org

763-438-5163

The St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a pancake breakfast fundraiser at the St. Francis American Legion, 3073 Bridge Street.

Saturday, December 15, 7:00-11:00 a.m. Sunday, December 16, 8:00 a.m.-noon.

Suggested donation is $15 for a family, $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 5-12 and free for children under age 5

Advance tickets available at St. Francis City Hall, County Market and Subway.

All proceeds will go toward the 2013 Pioneer Days celebration, scheduled for June 7-9. Call the Chamber at 763-438-5163 to lend a hand.

Pancake BreakfastDecember 15 & 16

St. Francis American Legion

Help support St. Francis Pioneer Days!

Volunteers and donations are needed!

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Save the Date!January 25

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Youth Frontiers for 7th gradersJEnniFEr norStrEMSFMS SChool SoCial WoRkeR

Seventh grade students at St. Francis Middle School

were involved in a day-long retreat recently, focusing on

the value of courage. This is the ninth year that 7th graders from the middle school have attended this inspiring retreat. Youth Frontiers, Inc. of Minneapolis facilitated the retreat. This non-profit, nonpartisan organization delivers programs that improve school climate and strengthen student character. Their vision is to change the way young people treat each other in every hallway, lunch line, and classroom

of every school in America. On the Courage Retreat, the Youth Frontiers staff members focused on creating a more inclusive school climate by encouraging students to accept people for who they are, resist following the crowd, and act with moral courage despite their fears using activities and programs that prompted them to laugh, reflect and share their thoughts openly. St. Francis

Continued, Page 5


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© 2005 001514 – 1/05

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conjunction with the science curriculum we have been using for the past three years. In one of the EiE units, students will read about a young girl who recognizes a problem with a polluted river near her home. Students will learn about water filtration and eventually design and build their own water filtration system. In another EiE unit, students will use what they learn in the magnetism and electricity unit to design and build a maglev train. Teachers will continue to explore additional opportunities for students to design and create their own technologies to solve a problem or fill a need.

The focus of these and other engineering activities in our STEM program will not be limited to the solutions to problems, but also on the process of designing those solutions. Students will be employing an engineering design process that is cyclical in nature. Over time and multiple exposures to the process, students will learn how to use similar processes to solve their own real-world problems in the future. This is the true definition of lifelong learning.

With the increased emphasis on engineering in our classrooms, we are igniting a spark in each of our students that will take full advantage of their creative and curious nature. When children start to talk about their plans for the future, the idea of being an engineer will rank right up there with other quality careers.

Engineering in the 4th grade STEM pilotKurt BECKEriSd 15 diReCtoR oF CuRRiCuluM & aSSeSSMentS

Part three of a four-part series on the 4th grade STEM Education pilot in Independent School District 15 (STEM = Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)

As I continue to research STEM education, I routinely come across the statement that all children are born en-gineers. Children are naturally curious, creative, and intuitive, so it makes sense that we should do everything we can to help students learn through the use of these natural traits. However, when I look back at the science education that I received in elementary school, little was done to promote my creative nature. I can only conclude that the reason for this is because the science education that I received was focused only on scientific concepts and not on engineering.

Aerospace engineer Theodore Von Karman was quoted as saying, “Scientists discover the world that exists while engineers create the world that never was.” My science education was limited to learning what others had already discovered, and my classmates and I were given very little time to create new things. One thing that sets a STEM classroom apart from a non-STEM classroom is the additional focus on engineering—allowing students to create their own solutions to problems.

When the newest Minnesota Academic Science Standards were released in 2009, there was an increased focus on engineering. Many of us saw this as a great step forward in science education. Now, not only are students expected to learn scientific concepts, they are also expected to apply their creativity and knowledge to create their own solutions. This is a far cry from simply memorizing facts.

In the ISD 15 4th grade STEM pilot, we are implementing a new curriculum called Engineering is Elementary (EiE) to help promote students’ engineering skills. This curriculum, designed by the Museum of Science in Boston, is used in

High School students also volunteered to attend the retreat to help facilitate small group discussions, participate in the activities, and be positive leaders for the 7th graders.

St. Francis Middle School 7th grade students had the opportunity to an off-campus retreat that focused on the value of courage. SubMitted Photo

From Page 4

Youth Frontiers


ContaCtStelephone ...............................763-753-7031Fax .................................................763-753-4693advertising .............................763-753-7032billing ..........................................763-753-7031editor ..........................................763-753-7042Website .................... www.the-courier.org

deadline information Deadline for the December 2012 issue of The Courier is December 16.

address 4115 Ambassador blvd. Nw St. Francis, mN 55070-9368

Publisher Troy Ferguson ........................763-753-7042 [email protected]

editor Kathleen miller ......................763-753-7042 [email protected]

advertising Sales Janice Audette.......................763-753-7032 [email protected]

Graphic designers Pat Johnson .............................763-753-7025 [email protected] Alicia Loehlein .......................763-753-7033 [email protected]

billing Alicia Loehlein .......................763-753-7033 [email protected] Amy Lindfors ..........................763-213-1588 [email protected]

Production binie bertils

Subscriptions The publication is delivered at no charge to all residents in independent School District 15. The Courier can be mailed to any address for an annual (12 issues) subscription rate of $18.

delivery For delivery inquires...........763-753-7031

The Courier is a monthly publication distributed by independent School District 15 Community education & Services and paid for with revenues generated by advertising.

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

Happy Holidays from all of us at…

ORTHODONTICSSmiles by Doctor Jonak and Associates

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12/12

croSSroadS School & Vocational center

Exploring career possibilitiesMArGArEt EiCKhoFFCSVC due PRoCeSS FaCilitatoR

Ron Mowry and Dave Eickhoff of Con-way Freight came to speak to older Crossroads School students. Con-way Freight, with roots dating back over 75 years, has over 400 operating locations across North America. Mowry is the Fridley Service Center Manager. Eickhoff has been a truck driver for Con-way for over 25 years and is also a five-time state champion in the Minnesota State Truck Driving Competition, this last year being the Grand Champion. Mowry shared some

background information about Con-way, job opportunities and needed training.

The students asked several well thought out questions. After the inside presentation the students went outside where there was a Con-way tractor pulling double trailers. The students were able to sit in the truck, look at the equipment and go inside a trailer. In a follow up class, one student stated they learned you could pay to go to truck driving school or once hired, companies such as Con-way provide in-house training. Another student mentioned learning that a truck driver can make three million dollars over their lifetime.

Crossroads staff would like to thank Mowry and Eickhoff for sharing their time, resources and expertise with students and staff.

Vocational speaker at Crossroads SchoolMArGArEt EiCKhoFFCSVC due PRoCeSS FaCilitatoR

Sergeant Jake Rehling of the St. Francis Police Department spoke to a small group of students at Crossroads School & Vocational Center about what it’s like to be a police officer and the training required. In Minnesota, a candidate needs to complete a minimum of a two year college degree in criminal justice including an academy-based skills program. Rehling stressed that ongoing training and education is needed throughout a police officer’s career to stay current on new trends and move up the career ladder.

One student asked what Rehling’s favorite part of the job was, he replied, “There is something different to do each day. One minute I can be talking to people like you and the next minute I could be called out on an emergency. I wouldn’t like doing the same thing every day.” When asked about his least favorite part of the job he replied, “I see some things that I do not want to see again such as young children hurt or killed in accidents.” Crossroads School staff would like to thank the students for asking some great questions and Sergeant Rehling for taking the time to meet with our students.

Crossroads students were able to get a close up look at an over-the-road delivery truck.

SubMitted Photo

St. Francis police officer Sergeant Jake rehling spoke to with Crossroads students about the requirements to become an office. SubMitted Photo


Patriot Lanes Bar and GriLL.com

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daiLy Lunch sPeciaLs Monday-Friday Open faced Pork, Ham,

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Friday 5-9:30 pm All-U-Can-Eat RIBS $13.95 or All-U-Can-Eat FISH $11.95; Meat Raffle at 5 pm; Karaoke/DJ

Saturday Bingo and Meat Raffle starts at 2 pm; Karaoke/DJ at 9 pm

Sunday Sports on the big screen; drawings during Vikings games and free food at halftime; $1.50/game bowling all day

Hours 11:00 am-1:00 am

BowLinG sPeciaL on sundays, christmas day, and new year’s day

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new year’s eve Party here!

call to sign up for moonlight Bowling

win Prizes!Moonlight Bowl Saturdays 9:30 pm

Sunday, December 16 1:00-4:00 p.m. Come visit with Santa Enjoy hot cocoa, apple cider and

cookies. Kids under 12 will receive a small gift from Santa and a photo. bowl free during the event.sign up for mixed couples leagues, starts in January.

Food driveDrop off your non-perishable

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St. FranciS eleMentary School

A successful food driveAnGiE hYlEnSFeS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

St. Francis Elementary School students got into the holiday spirit of giving by sponsoring a food drive during the week of November 12 to collect food for needy families. Students and staff joined together to gather a total of 3,937 units of food to be distributed to 15 families in time for the holiday season. Each family will receive three bins of food along with a frozen turkey. The remainder of the donations will be given to the St. Francis High School foodshelf or the North Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf. The six classrooms that collected the most units of food were: Lynda Skogquist’s 4th grade class – 337, Darin Bourasa’s 4th grade class – 325, Sue Hoefs’ 3rd grade class – 295, Holly Bergstrom’s 5th grade class – 272, Nicole Anderlie’s 2nd grade class – 260, and Karen Holsten’s 3rd grade class – 247. Scott Kruger, dean of students and coordinator of the event, complimented students and staff on the most successful food drive he has organized or witnessed at the school.

Staff Spotlight: Stacey NelsonAnGiE hYlEnSFeS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

Although physical education teacher Stacey Nelson may be a new face at St. Francis Elementary School, he is not new to Independent School District 15. Nelson has been a teacher in the district for several years, as both a health teacher and a physical education teacher at St. Francis Middle School.

Elementary teaching has been a new arena for Nelson, one that he has found challenging and rewarding. Nelson is a quick learner, and has adapted his teaching

techniques to a younger clientele, discovering, for example, not to use the words “right” or “left” in his directions to first graders! He has been pleasantly surprised at the unbridled enthusiasm and acceptance that the elementary kids display toward him as a teacher and all aspects of physical education. “I think on my third or fourth day teaching at SFES, I counted about 12 or 13 hugs!” recounted Nelson. “The kids have kind of stolen my heart.”

Nelson began the year with a unit on playground games and appropriate play on the equipment during recess. He personally helped prepare the blacktop areas and arrange for the painting of four square, tic tac toe, and hopscotch boards. First grade teacher Deb Todd said, “He has jumped right in. He makes phy ed fun for the kids.”

Nelson has found the SFES administration and staff welcoming and encouraging as well. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here so far. I am given enough guidance and resources to meet the standards, but I am given the freedom to be creative in how I meet those goals. I thrive in an atmosphere like that.” The feeling is mutual, according to SFES Principal Kathy Kohnen. “Stacey just generates enthusiasm for physical education. He works so hard for his program.”

Throughout his tenure in ISD 15, Nelson has also been a district leader in several other capacities. He has served as a Teacher Academy instructor of a technology class designed to help other educators stay informed about recent technology tools and the most effective strategies to implement them. In addition, Nelson has been an active member of the middle school and district-wide technology committees, which help guide the integration of technology into the classrooms. Nelson has also served as a coach for middle school wrestling and pole vaulting for the St. Francis High School track team.

Students at St. Francis Elementary School north were immersed in an inquiry study of erosion and deposition using stream tables as models for the real world. they created a plateau of sand and clay in a stream table, then added a water source to observe the effects of water (rain, river, or flooding in the real world) on the plateau. Students were excited to see canyons and deltas forming in the stream table. they spent over a week investigating different variations of this model. they also designed their own investigation, coming up with a question, hypothesis, stream table model, and, finally, drawing conclusions based on what they discovered in their investigation. Jody SheeRin, SFen 5th GRade teaCheR

Physical education teacher Stacey nelson, demonstrates proper technique on the climbing wall to a class of enthusiastic young students. nelson, who is a veteran teacher in iSd 15, began a new post at St. Francis Elementary School this year. SubMitted Photo

St. Francis Elementary School students, staff and parents collected over 3,900 units of food for local foodshelves and families in need. Students Elaine Mei, Sophie nesseth, dylan Baker and Bryce Baker pose by a small portion of the non-perishable food items lining the hall and office area of the school. SubMitted Photo


Driver’s Education

Classroom EduCationRegistration for classroom driver’s education is being

accepted for the 2012-13 school year. If you are 15 years of age or approaching 15, you may register to participate in a 30-hour classroom driver’s education

course offered during the school day. Fee $110.

BEhind-thE-WhEEl driving instruCtion

Six hours of required behind-the-wheel instructionFlexible scheduling

State of Minnesota certified instructorsFee $250

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

Sponsored by ISD 15 Community Education & Services

@ st. FranCis high sChool

St. FranciS Middle School

New science teacher at SFMSJESSiE rowlESSFMS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

Diana Gagnon is a new teacher at St. Francis Middle School, taking over for a teacher on military leave. Gagnon is teaching eighth grade earth science. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin River Falls in horticulture/agronomy in 2004. She comes to the middle school with a teaching license in K-6 elementary education and 5th-8th grade science. She is currently completing her master’s degree in education at St. Mary’s University in Minneapolis, Gagnon added, “With just a few credits to go!”

She recently completed her student teaching in Cambridge Middle and Primary Schools and has spoken and taught several adult classes about nature, butterflies, birds, and landscape design over the past nine years in the Cambridge-Isanti and Mora areas.

Gagnon loves nature and the outdoors as well as jogging, biking and hiking with friends and family. She also loves to read and bake. Gagnon is married and resides in Cambridge with her two children, a two-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter.

Gagnon states, “I love the students who attend my classes. They rock (pun intended)! They are spunky, smart, and very enthusiastic about wanting to discover more in science. It is fun to find out unique and interesting strengths or experiences that each student brings to science class. I look forward to many exciting science lab days, and I can tell that the students get excited for the hands-on activities in my classroom, too.”

Science students study volume and matter

Students in Joe Fredrickson’s 6th grade science classes at St. Francis Middle School have been applying their metric measuring skills in a volume lab in november. Students needed to find the volume of liquids and regular shapes. Sixth graders also learned about the water displacement method and implemented that technique to determine the volume of irregular shapes. during the study of matter, students utilized these skills to determine the density of different objects. Pictured (L-R) are Justine wald, Cheyanne waalen (partially obstructed) and Julia Sanders. JeSSie RoWleS, SFMS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

Alka-Seltzer rockets were used by Joe Fredrickson’s students as a summative unit-end study after learning about the properties of matter. Students used items that would show evidence of a chemical reaction — Alka-Seltzer and water. Students observed the bubbling that took place and noted that a gas was given off in the reaction. Students in Fredrickson’s class conducted an experiment on the effect the size of the object would have on the reaction time. After determining what the independent, dependent, and controlled variables were, they used the Alka-Seltzer to test a whole piece, broken piece, and a piece ground with a mortar and pestle. Students applied their findings of the chemical reaction to display it in the form of a film canister rocket. Students manipulated the angle of launch to determine how to achieve maximum distance of flight. Pictured (clockwise L-R) are Blake Jenson, Colton Schumacher, Zach wald and luke Bonte.

dEBi lonGSFMS Site ManaGeMent CounCil PaRent ChaiR

Has your middle schooler been to an Activity Night lately? If not, they are missing out on a lot of fun. Activity

Nights are open to all St. Francis Middle School students. The cost is $5 per student and that includes all events, games and prizes – food is extra. Students will need their student ID. The Site Management Council (SMC) sponsors

All grades combined next Activity night at middle schoolthe events with help from parents, grandparents and staff volunteers.

Each Activity Night has a theme and there are a variety of activities and games to enjoy; such as bingo, basketball, DJ/dancing, face painting, movies and pictures with friends. There are also new activities like kendama competition, ping pong, speed cup competition and 4-square.

Low priced snacks and beverages are sold. Coming soon is a hotdog, chips and beverage meal.

The Activity Night parent coordinator Julie Tobako

does a great job organizing, decorating, setting up and various other duties.

The next Activity Night is scheduled for December 7, 6:30-9:00 p.m. for all students in grades six through eight. Activity Nights for the remainder of the school year will also be held on February 8 and April 5, 6:30-9:00 p.m.

The SMC is always looking for volunteers. If you’d like to sign up, please contact Julie Tobako at [email protected]. Volunteers must fill out a background check for the event. It is free of charge. Visit www.isd15.org/volcheck.

diana Gagnon SubMitted Photo

St. Francis Middle School students attended their first Activity night of the school year on october 26. SubMitted Photo


Adult Open HOckeyMost Mondays & Wednesdays

11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Helmets and gloves are required.

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763-767-5100Schedules available at

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St. FranciS high School

Schesso, Pounder win Pumpkin Carving ContestStEvEn FEtZiKiSd 15 CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

Rebeca Schesso and Leslie Pounder are the winners of the first Pumpkin Carving Contest at St. Francis High School. The contest rules were simple: decorate a pumpkin, donate it to the high school library and allow it to be sold during a silent auction to support the school’s new foodshelf. Over a dozen pumpkins were entered into the competition.

Schesso won the student division with a carving of a wolf howling at the moon. Pounder was the staff champion, decorating a pumpkin to look like Steve Fetzik, the high school librarian. Overall, more than $30 was raised through the auction for the foodshelf.

“We had a great turnout for a first-year event,” commented Fetzik. “ I am always amazed by the support our students and staff give to those in need.”

Jill SAloSFhS CounSeloR

The first school trimester has came to an end November 29. During the second trimester students will be challenged with different classes and teachers. By setting goals and implementing good study habits, students will be setting themselves up for success. College applications and senior meetings

Many seniors have already made appointments with their counselor to discuss their current credit status and plans after high school. It’s important that seniors make note of college application deadlines. For example, the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities has a deadline of December 15. The counseling office is usually busy right before that deadline, so allow time for counselors to review the application before you send it.

Students should allow about two weeks when requesting a letter of recommendation from staff members. This will ensure a quality letter that will represent your experiences.

Additionally, seniors should stop by the career center to make sure their Future’s Prep activities are complete. Financial Aid night 2013

The SFHS Counseling and Career Center would like to invite all junior and senior students and families to the annual Financial Aid Night on Thursday, February 7.

High school supports Angel TreeStEvEn FEtZiKiSd 15 CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

Fifty children will have a brighter Christmas this year, thanks to the generous support of St. Francis High School. Every year the school receives 50 names of children through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, and every year the staff and students rush to select their little “angel.”

“Our staff and students are wonderful,” said school librarian and event organizer Steven Fetzik. “I can’t believe that all 50 kids were selected in a matter of days.”

The program provides the names of children and teens to local event hosts who then find sponsors for the children. Each recipient gives her/his name,

age, and a list of wishes for Christmas. Requests range from dolls to sporting equipment to video games to make-up. The sponsors then purchase the items and return them to the high school, where they are given to the Salvation Army and then to the parents. The parents get to wrap the presents and give them to their children.

“I think it’s great that the parents get to give the gifts to their children,” commented Educational Assistant Christine Ramacher. “It really helps to make a strong bond between the parent and child on a very special day.”

In one case, a 12 year-old boy requested movie passes to a small-town theatre. The theatre owner was contacted and immediately sent a $50 gift card for the boy.

“It’s hard to tell who the angels are, sometimes,” observed Fetzik, “the ones who give so freely or the ones who are receiving the presents?”

Because of the overwhelm-ing support for the program, additional names may be requested from the Salvation Army.

Anybody wishing to help the program can bring new clothing, toys, and other items to the high school library until December 10. Donations will be accepted, too, with checks made out to the Salvation Army.

Presentations begin at 6:00 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at SFHS. This informational meeting will focus on the financial aid application process. Guest speaker Valerie Knopp, assistant director of St. Cloud State University’s Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, will lead attendees through the entire FAFSA application and answer any questions that families may have.

Senior students should be checking their Naviance accounts for scholarship opportunities and watching for the local scholarship application available in January. 2013-14 registration

Registration for the next school year is fast approaching for SFHS students. Students need to start thinking about classes that interest them and those that may guide them in their plans for the future. Counselors will be visiting the middle school in January to meet with the 8th grade students and answer

any questions they may have regarding their 9th grade registration. Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a hot topic in today’s world. Teens often spend a lot of time each day on the computer or text messaging. Technology offers teens the sense of anonymity to say things that he or she may not say in person. At times, these words can be hurtful and detrimental to others, and can lead to personal and social conflicts. Please speak to your teen about the importance of safety and respect online and on the phone. Find out what is happening on his or her Facebook or other online accounts.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding registration or graduation requirements, please feel free to call the SFHS counseling office at 763-213-1590. Counselor alphabetical assignments are as follows:

Jill Engquist A-EJaymie Helle F-KJill Salo L-RTammy Sworsky S-Z

notes from the high school counseling office

SubMitted Photo

rebeca Schesso and leslie Pounder are the winners of the first Pumpkin Carving Contest at St. Francis high School. Schesso carved the howling wolf and Pounder created a Steve Fetzik (left) look-a-like.

SubMitted Photo

MIDwEST FaMIly COuNSElINg, P.a.

God’s love in the manger!Talk slower. Speak softer.

Make a joyful noise!

763-753-945923038 Rum River Boulevard, St. Francis

By St. Francis High School

Bruce w. Barton, M.Div., M.a., lMFT, lP

Village Bank

Bridge Street

Rum

Riv

er B

oule

vard

Midwest FamilyCounseling

9

SF High School

Altogether the 65 volunteers produced 54 boxes equaling 11,664 meals. This costs $2,500 which was collected from gracious donors. That would be as if every one of the

volunteers donated almost $40. The best part of this experience for the SFHS HOSA students is knowing that all this work and food will feed and save 32 kids for a whole year!


You!

With fi ve kids and lots of activities, I rely on same-day appointments and extended hours to make my life easier. I can even call 24/7 to schedule at my convenience. + Peg, Fairview Clinics patient

Fairview Clinics – St. Francis is conveniently located at 23671 St. Francis Blvd.St. Francis, MN 55070

> fairview.org/stfrancis

I can see a doctor > today

Same-day appointments:

612-284-3182

eaSt Bethel coMMunity School

KAthY wEilAndSFhS hoSa adViSoR

On November 8, St. Francis High School HOSA (Health Occupation Student Association) students departed for St. Paul for the HOSA Fall Delegation Assembly. Fall delegation is the annual get-together for HOSA Chapters around the state. It is at this event HOSA students from all over the state run for state offices. St. Francis High School HOSA is pleased to announce that Tiana Pederson was elected to Minnesota HOSA State President for the 2013-14 school year!

During this trip, students also got the once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Paul and view one of the two Cyberknives located in Minnesota. A Cyberknife is a very sophisticated radiosurgery system that delivers pinpoint laser beams to cancerous and benign tumors as well as other conditions in the body. The students were told that most people in that hospital

haven’t even seen the Cyberknife, so it was a very rewarding and exciting experience for the students.

Students also participated in a short self-defense class. The class was geared mainly toward girls on ways to avoid hostile situations and if the unfortunate time comes where they can’t avoid one, they were taught how to get out of it as safely as possible. “It was a fun experience and I learned a lot!” said Cassy Stierns, a St. Francis HOSA member who was in attendance.

The following day, students visited many booths and presentation stations describing just a few of the many medical career options out there. The careers ranged from dentistry and nursing all the way to medical photography.

All in all, the fall delegation was considered a big success for SFHS HOSA and the students are now all geared and ready to go for the upcoming state competitions!

the East Bethel Community School Student Council meets once a month to have discussion and take action toward making their school a better place. this picture shows the 4th and 5th grade members after gathering Golden Eagle Feathers. the feathers are earned by individual classrooms as the students collectively demonstrate respectful behavior and positive character traits. thank you, student council, for your commitment and dedication!

CaSSie SChMoll, ebCS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

East Bethel Community School Student Council members have been busy helping collect food for their buildings’s food drive. they have been writing letters to high profile people asking for their help in promoting EBCS’s Eagle Pride and plan to take an active role in Pizza night again this year. to learn more about what the student council is accomplishing at EBCS, ask one of the awesome members. Student council members pictured front row (L-R): Cecelia S., Matt F., ryan l., Jake S., Allisyn h.; middle row Kierra i., olyvia l., Keira w., Kate E., lydia r. and teacher lillian derung; back row teacher Jamie Studnicka, Ethan t., Jacey v., Emma C., Catherine v., Eric P., Kaylee o. and teacher Cassie Schmoll.

CaSSie SChMoll, ebCS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

KAthY wEilAndSFhS hoSa adViSoR

Did you know that 18,000 children die a year from starvation? Feed My Starving Children in Coon Rapids helps with this cause. Unlike some places, this organization uses 93 percent of its donations to package, ship, and hand out food. On November 12, eight St. Francis High School HOSA members and many other volunteers participated in packaging food that would be sent to Haiti. They worked together packaging food for almost two hours.

“It was a great experience and felt good knowing that this little bit of help was actually making a big difference,” said senior Megan Wines.

St. FranciS high School

hoSA students experience success and exceptional educational experience

high school hoSA students volunteered at Feed My Starving Children. SubMitted Photo

High school HOSA students give back


FITNESS for all!We offer plenty of ways for you to get in shape, so you’ll never be bored with working out. We have two treadmills,

two elliptical trainers, two stationary bikes and a Nautilus four station weight machine.

Relaxed atmosphere – senior citizens are encouraged to attend!

Socialize after your workout in our conference room.

Only $2 per visit and no membership fees.

Call Theresa today for more information 763-213-1616 or email [email protected]

Fitness 15 • Sandhill Center23820 Dewey StreetBethel, MN 55005

Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m-Noon

eaSt Bethel coMMunity School

Kindergartners can be anything!AnGiE hYlEnSFeS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

Gavin Schwann, Aubrey Goral and Quinn Reid (pictured right) from Julie Polsfut’s class show off the whimsical bulletin board created by St. Francis Elementary School kindergarten students. As part of the Minnesota State Standards, kindergarten children learned about different community helpers. After reading and discussing various professions, each kindergarten class constructed a different community helper and a related work vehicle for a collaborative bulletin board. Students from the six kindergarten classes contributed the following items: Julie Polsfut’s class – doctor with an ambulance, Lisa Prowizor’s class – police officer with a squad car, Julie Wieczorek’s

class – firefighter with a fire truck, Beth Anderson’s class – chef with a delivery truck, Briana Anderson’s class – construction worker with a dump truck, Jennica Fishero’s class – sanitation worker with a garbage truck.

St. FranciS eleMentary School

Eagle Pride assemblyCASSiE SChMollebCS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

East Bethel Community School has recently kicked-off their Eagle Pride way of life with their first assembly of the school year. Eagle Pride is a character trait that the entire school focuses on for the month. That trait will be discussed on the announcements every morning, in classrooms, through displays and by individuals demonstrating that trait. Those individuals have a chance to be recognized over the morning announcements. For the month of October, the students and staff at EBCS focused on respect and for the month

of November the character trait is responsibility.

Students saw the new 2012-13 Eagle Pride T-shirts designed by Lydia R. The Eagle Pride T-shirts are earned by individual students demonstrating Eagle Pride (modeling the school’s character traits).

Whole classrooms can earn the eagle mascot for earning the most Golden Eagle Feathers over a 24-day rotation.

EBCS takes a lot of pride in who they are. Come in and visit to see where you can find Eagle Pride in the building and keep your eyes open for Eagle Pride T-shirts in our community!

the budding relationships developed by Michelle roy, leslee Yseth and Cassie Schmoll’s students through bus buddies at the beginning of the school year have blossomed into Flash Math study buddies. Every day, Schmoll’s students help the progression of roy’s and Yseth’s students’ math skills. Most recently they have been working with number recognition and counting to 30. while helping improve the kindergartners’ math skills, 5th grade students are refining their leadership and positive role model skills. CaSSie SChMoll,

ebCS CoMMunity RelationS CooRdinatoR

East Bethel Community School (EBCS) families enjoyed the first Family reading night of the school year on november 15. led by technology specialist, tracey Peterson, students read books and took computerized Accelerated reader tests on what they read. Families could then enjoy a caramel apple sundae. this well-attended event was sponsored by EBCS and Community involvement PAC, treats were provided by the EBCS Parent teacher organization.

debbie SundbeRG, ebCS 2nd GRade teaCheR

in october East Bethel Community School chose respect as the character trait of the month. Each month the school chooses a positive trait to explore. SubMitted Photo

Pam Beecham, a former East Bethel Community School teacher, now working with Minnesota department of natural resources, taught classes on leaves and deer habitat to EBCS kindergartners in november. kathy PRiebe, ebCS kindeRGaRten teaCheR

School Board Highlights School Board highlightS noVeMbeR 12, 2012

KAthlEEn MillErStaFF WRiteR

All board members present.happening Around the district

Diane Guinn from the Community Ed Rec Department gave an overview of the youth football program. Students in grades 2-8 have the opportunity to participate in tackle football while a flag football program is offered to students in kindergarten to grade 3. The league has grown to over 500 teams participating. The grade 7 football team, with a season of 10-1, came away as league champions. Chris Lindquist, head football coach at St. Francis High School, added that a great partnership has developed over the years between Community Ed, the football boosters (Grid Club) and the high school coaching staff. Lindquist underscored some of the positives that come from students participating in the well-organized program.All day Every day Kindergarten

Cedar Creek Community School kindergarten teacher Kathy Greene provided an update to the school board regarding all day every day kindergarten. She thanked the board for the privilege to teach all day every day. Kindergartners need repetition and time to process, which was hard to accomplish in the half-day model. The gift of time to be able to give more to students is making a positive impact.Site report

The Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program was recently awarded a four-star rating by Parent Aware, a rating tool for selecting high quality childcare and early education in Minnesota. Criteria used in the rating included having a curriculum aligned with early learning standards, an assessment process and training opportunities offered to staff. Programs under the ECFE umbrella include Preschool Place 15/School Readiness, Early Childhood Special Education, kindergarten support services, Early Childhood Special Education home-based services, ECFE Screening, early intervention and health services. Other

School Board Meeting ScheduleSchool board meetings are held at the Community room in the Central Services Center located at 4115 Ambassador blvd. Nw, St. Francis.

Monday, december 10Dialogue with School board 6:30 p.m. regular meeting 7:00 p.m.

Monday, January 14Dialogue with School board 6:30 p.m. regular meeting 7:00 p.m.

Monday, January 28Dialogue with School board 6:30 p.m. regular meeting 7:00 p.m.

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

School Board MeMBerSmarsha Van Denburgh, Chairwoman, 763-753-6653

Janet glover, Vice Chairwoman 763-221-5341

Suzanne erkel, Clerk 763-413-1195

harry grams, Treasurer 763-856-4350

David Anderson, Director 763-434-9457

Amy Kelly, Director 763-744-8458

matthew rustad, Director 763-442-2800

email: [email protected]

SChool Board perSpeCtive dAvid AndErSon

On November 1, the Independent School District 15 School Board held a work session that was attended by all seven board members and Superintendent Ed Saxton. This session was facilitated by Sandy Gundlach from the Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA) and was requested by the board earlier this fall. For me, the session was a reminder of how the roles of the school board and the superintendent are defined in their relationship to the operation of the district. In the model of Board Governance as presented by Gundlach, we discussed the roles of each body and how they interface together. We discussed primarily the role of the school board.

The board sets expectations and parameters by adopting policies, adopting goals and evaluating results. The superintendent provides leadership and supervision. To accomplish this, he develops and recommends plans, implements and ensures alignment of his plans and then monitors the results. By the school board working to ensure the accountability


of their responsibilities and the superintendent making his recommendations to the board, the combined effort is a work in progress toward the outcome of student achievement. What I have mentioned is only the relationship of the board to the superintendent. I believe the real work takes place at the sites, with a collaborative effort from all the district-wide staff to make student achievement a reality.

Gundlach stated, “School boards have the responsibility in the areas of vision, structure, accountability, advocacy, conduct and ethics.” Over the next couple of hours we covered these topics; we discussed their meanings and how we felt they were currently being implemented or not within our board.

The ISD 15 mission statement is posted in our board room and is a constant reminder of what our role as board members and the district combined is responsible to work toward. Our board structure needs to allow us to evaluate the superintendent as well as the board itself. We can develop board goals that could be specific to this board and not the district goals. These are two areas I believe we need to complete in the very near future to understand where areas of improvement may be needed. Our board meetings need to be productive, allowing the agenda to be followed without the surprise agenda items which can be a struggle for all to follow.

As Gundlach stated,” Ultimately, the school

board members must take responsibility for the school board’s activity and behavior.” We can work toward a conduct and ethics role as a full board that will allow us to be both respectful and accomplish our required work.

We can still vote our individual conscience. We have been reviewing our board policies and this was another area of listed importance with MSBA; we are currently starting to work through the 200 series policies. One area of discussion was the “chain of responsibility” so as to not “micromanage” the district problems but rather refer the staff member and or community member to the appropriate person to address the problem. This can be a problem when board members receive calls and want to help that community member, staff member or parent solve the problem. This can be a challenge for us all and continues to need discussion at the board level.

As a part of our board responsibilities we are assigned to numerous committees. Committee work is important because it allows a few members to bring information back to the full board. Fellow board members are allowed to ask questions from these committee members or other staff members to make an informed decision. This committee work should be respected and yet can still be debated; this should allow for a healthy debate while still allowing board members to vote their mind. Building trust through this type of process is important. As we discussed, trust is a key element to building a great school board/superintendent working relationship. Each one of us needs to work to develop that trust across the entire board.

I would like to spend some more time in defining the roles of the school board as I don’t think this work session was quite complete. It is a great first step for this new board and I would hope we would continue to attend other work sessions to be facilitated with the help of the MSBA support network. I hope this is the start of a good change for this board.

programs offered at the Lifelong Learning Center are Adult Basic Education, Kids Connection and Head Start. ECFE stresses two themes to all families: that parents are our partners and every parent is on a unique journey. Special Meeting

A hearing on the proposed removal of Director Matt Rustad from the Independent School District 15 School Board is scheduled to take place on November 14, 6:00 p.m. at Central Services Center. To comply with the requirements of the Minnesota Open Meting Law, the meeting is open and will be live streamed. Archived video can be found at www.isd15.org under School Board > Video of Meetings.

School Board highlightS noVeMbeR 26, 2012

KAthlEEn MillErStaFF WRiteR

All board members present.happening Around the district

Principal Dale Johnson and Assistant Principal Bobbi Hume from St. Francis Middle School presented an overview to the School Board on the Youth Frontiers program offered to all grade 7 students. The goal is to keep the messages learned going strong all year long: change the way young people treat each other, accept people for who they are and resist following the crowd. The one-day retreat was held at Constance Free Church in Andover. St. Francis High School students volunteered to attend the retreat to help facilitate small group discussions, participate in the activities, and be positive leaders. Two SFMS students, Walker Lane and Wyatt Dahlquist, shared their feedback and both stated that they will each try to set a good example for younger students.Student report

St. Francis High School (SFHS) students and student council members Cassy Stierns and Natasha Taylor reported on the recent food drive held at the high school. The drive, coordinated by the student council, collected three truckloads of food (over 1,500 pounds). Half of the food items went to the North Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf

Continued, Page 13


(NACE) and the rest stayed at the foodshelf located within SFHS.neoPath health Clinic update

Human Resources Director David Lindberg provided an update to the school board on the on-site health clinic that is available to benefit-eligible ISD 15 employees. Fifty-one percent of employees have used the clinic, saving over $61,000 in out-of-pocket expenses. The clinic is on target with projections that were set, with one goal being to have a reserve of a month’s worth of claims, roughly $500,000. The clinic was used quite a bit during the summer months when many staff members have more flexibility in their schedules with another surge coming later in the fall. The NeoPath Health Clinic is on an annual contract with ISD 15.

legal Expense discussionSchool Board Chairwoman

Marsha Van Denburgh raised concerns about the legal costs being incurred regarding the proposed removal of Director Matt Rustad from the School Board. A hearing was held November 14, conducted by an independent hearing officer, which was recorded by a court reporter. Witnesses were sworn in. Both sides had legal representation. Van Denburgh thought it was going to be an informal hearing and felt Rustad was at a disadvantage. Van Denburgh suggested putting a cap on the amount of money the School District should spend on this matter after initially recommending legal counsel. After much discussion, Van Denburgh retracted her motion. The hearing officer will review the information presented and make a recommendation to the School Board by December 5. The School Board will act on the matter at the December 10 school board meeting.

From Page 12

School Board cedar creek coMMunity School

StEM at Cedar Creek Community Schoolholli hillMAnCCCS 4th GRade teaCheR

Fourth graders at Cedar Creek Community School have recently completed a three-month journey of water study. Students began their investigation with a visit to the Cedar Creek pond where samples of water were collected and then analyzed. Students quickly discovered that our Cedar Creek pond is home to countless microscopic organisms. The sincere enthusiasm and curiosity that students demonstrated was inspirational. This authentic experience was only the beginning of one of many STEM units delivered to fourth graders district-wide.

Following the pond visit and STEM lab exploration, students were exposed to a new piece of curriculum: Engineering is Elementary. This highly interactive curriculum introduces students to the engineering design process and environmental engineering. After studying the polluted Ganges River in India, students became environmental engineers and worked with cooperative groups to design water filtration systems. The purpose of the engineering curriculum is to foster problem solving skills while integrating other disciplines into project-

based learning. The fourth grade students at CCCS are fascinated with the implementation of STEM and consistently share with their parents and teachers their excitement for STEM related projects. The engineering and technological skills delivered are essential for the 21st century.

Fourth grade students took samples from Cedar Creek and brought them back to their classroom for analysis. they discovered the pond is full of microorganisms. SubMitted Photo

Community Education Sports & Outdoors PAGE 31

Before & After School Childcare Program

Before and After School ChildcareLocationsLifelong Learning Center

Serving East Bethel Community School and Cedar Creek Community School students

St. Francis Elementary SchoolSt. Francis Elementary School students

Kids Connectionis a division of Independent School District 15 Community Education & Services

Call 763-213-1641 for information and registration. Or register online at www.isd15.org.

Children must be preregistered to attend.

Kids Connection provides a safe, structured, nurturing and fun atmosphere for Independent School District 15 students in kindergarten through 5th grade.

The program is offered before and after school and on some non-school days.

Activities range from reading, art, sports, crafts and more.


Community eduCation ContaCtSTroy Ferguson, Assistant Director ........................................................... 763-753-7041Adult basic education (geD) ..................................................................... 763-753-7190

Sandy Farder, Coordinator/TeacherAdult education & Services ........................................................................ 763-213-1640

Drivers education/behind the wheel Nancy messerschmidt, Program Supervisor

Communications & District website Kathleen miller, Program Supervisor ................................................ 763-753-7042

The Courier Newspaper ............................................................................... 763-753-7031 Kathleen miller, editor ............................................................................... 763-753-7042 Pat Johnson, graphics ............................................................................... 763-753-7025 Alicia Loehlein, Staff writer, billing ..................................................... 763-753-7033 Janice Audette, Advertising ................................................................... 763-753-7032

Facility Scheduling Nancy messerschmidt ............................................................................... 763-213-1589

Family education & Services ...................................................................... 763-753-7170 Nancy wallace, Program Supervisor

Kids Connection Theresa Antinozzi, Program Supervisor ......................................... 763-213-1616 Kids Connection Lifelong Learning Center Site ........................ 763-753-7160 Kids Connection St. Francis middle School Site ....................... 763-213-8674

Preschool Place 15 ........................................................................................... 763-753-7170 Nancy wallace, Program Supervisor

rec Department Diane guinn, Program Supervisor ..................................................... 763-213-1823 heidi Antinozzi, rec Assistant............................................................... 763-213-1508

Sandhill Center for the Arts Theresa Antinozzi, Program Supervisor ......................................... 763-213-1616

www.isd15.org • www.the-courier.org • www.communityed15.com

JuAnitA rEEd-BoniFACElunCh & leaRn CooRdinatoR

Colorful maps, artifacts, and centerpieces set the stage for the November Lunch & Learn program that featured Reverend Dennis and Barbara Glad. Since 1991 the Glads have led Volunteer in Mission Work teams to 17 different countries in the Caribbean Islands, building and rehabbing schools and churches, building furniture and sewing garments for school children and newborns. Over 800 volunteers from all parts of the United States have participated in this program.

Dennis began the program with his observations of cultural differences and similarities. He grew up in northwestern Minnesota near the Canadian border where he developed an interest in geography and how geography affects culture. Geography plays a big part in the culture of the Caribbean and impacts weather, worries, wonders, education and worship.

The year-round average temperature is 85 degrees, mostly under intense sun. Since these countries are located near the equator, days are long, with more hours of daylight than darkness. Here we have snow in the winter

months, they have rain. Work in the Islands is very

gender specific—women’s work and men’s work. It is a new experience for the native people to see United States volunteers, both men and women, doing similar jobs. It gives them another perspective about ways that people work.

Many of the islands are very dependent on the United States tourism. The status of the U.S. economy is critical to their economic well-being. These islands are independent island nations, but are part of the British Commonwealth of

Nations and maintain strong ties to England. Health is another worry. Health care is limited and very few medical professionals are there to serve the large population. HIV and AIDS are serious diseases. In Haiti, one in 50 has HIV or AIDS.

Salt water is in abundance and used as a healing and cleansing agent. Sugar cane grows well in the volcanic soil of these countries; however, cane sugar has strong competition with sugar beets raised and processed in the U.S., including Minnesota.

The educational system is patterned after the British system. Students are “slotted” or guided into either academic or practical skills training. As a result some young people may find themselves in courses of study that don’t “fit” their first choice of training or career. Most areas lack facilities for education; teaching is done verbally, with teachers using blackboards and few books. This in stark contrast to the technology and other resources we have in the United States.

United Methodist churches in the Caribbean vary in worship style. Many are Pentecostal and the service may include one hour of singing and one hour of preaching.

Barbara was a recent guest in Haiti for a Women’s Conference on Discrimination and Health Issues of HIV and AIDS. She described for us the beauty of the native women both inside and out and their courage and strength to hold fast to hope while living in extreme poverty, heat, humidity, pollution, stench, congestion, rocky streets,

and limited electrical power. Barbara noted that she didn’t see any older people there; then she learned that the average age of men is 50 and for women 53.

The program concluded with a video of the Glad’s experiences in Belize in 2012 that gave a picture story of the weather, wonders, worries, and educational, food and housing needs of the people.

The Glads will be leading another Volunteer in Mission Work team of 46 individuals for two weeks in Costa Rica January 2013.

The next Lunch & Learn program is scheduled for January 15 at the Sandhill Center for the Arts. The topic is “Rum Runners and Temperance Tantrums” led by Vicki Wendel. Wendel will share stories of bootleggers and rumrunners in Anoka County and Minnesota. Register early for this popular program, online at www.communityed15.com or call 763-213-1641. Lunch & Learn is a program offered by Independent School District 15 Community Education.

Cultural diversity in the Caribbean and Central America

dennis Glad, a volunteer in Mission work team leader, explained the use of the red cart to a lunch & learn attendee. on the chairs behind dennis are t-shirts designed each year by dennis’s wife Barb and worn by the volunteer team members. Juanita Reed-boniFaCe


Call ECFE at 763-753-7170 for more information or to register for any of the opportunities on this page.Lifelong Learning Center • 18900 Cedar Drive NW, Oak Grove • Online at www.isd15.org

Bright BeginningsBright Beginnings in ISD 15 Early Childhood

Are you still looking for the right preschool for your child?

Preschool Place 15 is here for you. Register NOW! Still limited number of openings.

The mission of Preschool Place 15 is to provide a safe environment where young children of all abilities can grow and experience success and their parents can be partners in learning.

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

• Programming takes place September through May

• Morning, afternoon, late afternoon and evening sessions available

• One, two, three or four times per week

• Several age specific class options

• Sliding fee scale is available based on family size and income

• Busing available for a limited number of classes

Destination KindergartenEspecially for fall 2013 kindergartners and

their parentsIn a few short months, your child will

be a kindergartner! Now is the time to think about what skills your child should know, what the kindergarten expectations are, and how you can support your child as they take that big step. Destination Kindergarten sessions for parents and children are designed to bridge the preschool years to kindergarten for both children and parents. In the three week session at Cedar Creek Community School in a kindergarten classroom, there will be parent/child activity time and parent discussion time. You and your child are on your way to the countdown to kindergarten! Parent time will focus on moving into kindergarten…what choices do you have? What considerations are there for first time kindergartners in the “big school?” How do children maneuver through bus and classroom routines? Parents and children from across the district will benefit.Dates: Mondays, January 14-February 4

(no session January 21)Time: 6:15-8:00 p.m.Location: Cedar Creek Community SchoolFee: $12 per child for the three week

sessionDeadline: January 2

Sesame Street Live — Can’t Stop Singing

Join us and your Sesame Street friends at the Target Center in Minneapolis. You may bring a light lunch to eat on the bus or purchase lunch at the event.Date: Friday, January 11Time: Bus leaves Lifelong Learning

Center at 9:00 a.m., returns by 2:00 p.m.

Fee: $15 per personDeadline: December 19

For Children Only!Make Way for Learning

For children three to five years of age at the time of the event. Reinforce early learning skills in fun, interactive two-time classes. Lots of moving and creative fun for your preschooler. Children must be toileting themselves.Shoes, Shoes, Shoes

Red shoes, glitter shoes, work shoes, old shoes, new shoes. Come count, pattern, sort and measure all sorts of shoes.Dates: Tuesdays, December 11 & 18Time: 12:45-2:45 p.m.Fee: $8 per child

PajamaramaCome dressed in your pajamas for this

daytime pajama party. Play games, read bedtime stories, sing songs and enjoy making bedtime snacks…a fun way to mix it up!Dates: Tuesdays, January 15 & 22Time: 12:45-2:45 p.m.Fee: $8 per child

Pop In & PlayDates: Fridays, November 2-January 25Times: 9:30-11:30 a.m.Dates: Wednesdays, November 7-

April 24Times: 12:45-2:45 p.m.Fee: $4 per child, max $12 or three

punches per family (limit of 4 children/adult)

Upcoming Pop In & Play themesDecember 7: Let’s PartyDecember 12: Planes, Trains and

AutomobilesDecember 14: Moving in the GymDecember 19: Jingle BellsDecember 21: Gingerbread FriendsJanuary 4: Winter BlastJanuary 9: Favorite Animals

Do you have a child who is three or four years old?Have they been through Early Childhood Screening?

Early Childhood Screening should be done soon after the child’s third birthday. Screening is a FREE, simple check of a young child’s health and development; it does not determine kindergarten readiness.

Screening includes: a development assessment, vision and hearing checks, and an immunization and health review.

Call 763-753-7187 if you currently have a 3- or 4-year-old child who has not been screened.

ECFEPlan your year with Early Childhood Family EducationCheck out the Learn & Thrive booklet for Early Childhood Family Education parent/child classes for the 2012-13 school year.

Register NOW for classes! There are still limited openings in many of our classes.

Call 763-753-7170 or visit us online at www.isd15.org to register.

Looking for special events and trips? Register for them NOW!The Places to Go, Things to Do brochure features special events and field trips for families. Some of these events are Pop In & Play times, Children’s Theatre field trip, Sesame Street Live field trip, Paint and Play event, farm field trip and many more.

Parent Ed on your timeOnline parent education at times that work for you! Explore

resources you didn’t know were at your fingertips in an interactive virtual classroom with a licensed parent educator and other parents like you. Each of the six week sessions will include a variety of interactions including forums that you can access at any time, live online discussions around topics that you want to know about, and opportunities to view and discuss presentations by parenting experts. It’s easy and quick and you get the support and parenting information you want.Time: On your time (there may also be designated times for

live chats)Date: weeks of January 21-February 25Fee: FREE—Register as you would for a regular class or

event. Use the registration form including your email address or go online to www.isd15.org (Departments/Early Childhood)

Deadline: January 10 (you will receive an email the week of January 14 with login directions)

Have a concern about your child?Are you concerned about your child’s development,

speech, or behavior? If your child is under three years of age, contact Tim Finn at: [email protected] or 763-753-7172 to reach ISD 15 Help Me Grow services.

If your child is at least three years of age and not yet in kindergarten, ISD 15 Early Childhood Screening is the first step in confirming any concerns you have; call for an appointment at 763-753-7187 and mention your concerns.

ToT Shop

for Mom & popsponsored by the ISD 15

Early Childhood Advisory CouncilA unique holiday shopping experience for

children birth to kindergarten. See our ad on page 26.

Family CarnivalSaturday, February 29:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Lifelong Learning CenterFee: $1 per child, max of $3 per family and

a non-perishable food item for the local food shelf.

Bring the family and enjoy a fun-filled morning of games, crafts, play-dough walk, face painting and much more. Tickets for the “Basket Raffle” will be on sale the day of the carnival only.


Lunch & Learn is a program at the Sandhill Center for the Arts in Bethel that features interesting topics with dynamic speakers and a delicious lunch.Lunch: 11:00 a.m. Program: 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Cost: $11For registration, call 763-213-1641, online www.communityed15.com

Rum Runners & Temperance TantrumsJanuary 15Vicki WendelBootleggers and rum runners thrived in Anoka County and Minnesota even before prohibition went nationwide in 1920. The Minnesota map was a patchwork of dry and wet counties, dating back to before statehood. The battle over booze, illegal and otherwise, divided communities across the nation. This program looks at the issues and stories of prohibition.Presenter Vickie Wendel has been with the Anoka County Historical Society since 1989.

SilverSneakers® Muscular Strength & Range of MovementHave fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement, and activity for daily living skills. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a ball are offered for resistance, and a chair is used for seated and/or standing support.Days: Tuesdays, ThursdaysTime: 9:00-10:00 a.m.Fee: Free to SilverSneakers®

members; $2.00 per class for non-members.

SilverSneakers® YogaStretchYogaStretch will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of postures designed to increase flexibility, balance, and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity. Days: Mondays, Wednesdays,

FridaysTime: 9:00-10:00 a.m.Fee: Free to SilverSneakers®

members; $2.00 per class for non-members.

Join the Lunch Bunch at the Sandhill Center in the Bethel Cabaret for our monthly catered luncheon featuring top entertainment by popular artists. Make your reservations early as most of our shows do sell out ahead of time. Seating is first come, first served.Doors open: 10:40 a.m.Lunch served: 11:00 a.m.Showtime: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.Cost: $13For reservations, call 763-213-1641 use your Visa, MasterCard or Discover or visit www.communityed15.com.Groups are welcome!

CODA Tuesday, December 11 CODA is a saxophone/keyboard duo in its 16th year of performing, consisting of Scott Dorff and Malcolm Anderson. They compose and arrange music weekly, striving to make each performance unique and pleasurable for their audience. Enjoy the sounds of the season as they perform tunes from their Holiday Happiness CD.

The Sandhill Center for the Arts is operated under the auspices of Independent School District 15 Community Education & Services. Its purpose is to provide arts opportunities for the residents served by the school district. Sandhill Center for the arts is located at 23820 dewey Street, bethel, Mn 55005. For more information about the center, please call 763-213-1616.

For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program please contact Sandhill Center at 763-213-1616.

imagineSAndY FArdEradult baSiC eduCation CooRdinatoR iSd 15 CoMMunity eduCation

Imagine moving to a completely foreign country where everything is different. The food, the language, the government, the laws and even the very mentality of the people are all entirely new and unusual to you. That has been the experience of a family that has relocated to St. Francis from Belarus, a nation once part of the Soviet Union. They are not the first members of their family to move to Minnesota, so at least they had some prior knowledge from those who had preceded them.

Nadia Khomich, her father Siahrei (pronounced Sergey) Khomich, his wife Natalia and their son Daniel

all immigrated to St. Francis in late September, joining Nadia’s two older sisters and two older brothers already residing here. (One brother still lives in Belarus, but they are all hoping he will join them soon.) Daniel is already attending kindergarten and making the transition quite easily, as the very young generally do. While he is in school, the rest of his family spends every available moment studying English in ISD 15’s Adult Basic Education classroom. They are voracious learners, with extremely high expectations for themselves.

Nadia has lots of experience as a student. Before moving here, she had just completed high school followed by some time in a very demanding course of study at the university in Minsk, the capital city of Belarus. In her country, students must choose a course of study far in advance of actually attending the

university, especially if that field is in the arts. Though Nadia is quite musically talented, she missed the deadline for applying to the arts program, so entered the field of economics and management, instead. As a creative type, this proved to be of little interest to her. To make the experience even more difficult, the university determines the students’ schedules and they typically require seven to eight hours of class every day.

When Nadia had the opportunity to come to America with her family,

it was an easy decision to leave her studies! She hopes to resume her university studies here in a field more suited to her interests and talents, once she feels her English is adequate for university level work. In addition, she needs to earn money toward that goal. She just obtained a job at Old Country Buffet, so the saving has already begun. Nadia is an extremely bright and lovely young lady and I have a feeling she will adapt quickly to our American way of life. She has already discovered the Mall of America and has embraced a typical 19-year-old’s love of fashion and shopping.

Siahrei Khomich is perhaps one of the most serious students I have encountered. He is determined to master English, and with his work ethic, I have no doubt that he will. In Minsk, Belarus, Siahrei served as a pastor for twenty years. There he demonstrated his determination and passion for that work by building the congregation of his church from five hundred members to nearly four thousand! Now in the United States, he would like to attain a level of English fluency that would allow him to once again serve his community in that way. His mastery of reading and writing English is quite good, but, as is true for many of us, speaking this foreign language is proving more challenging. He has a wonderful spirit, though, and that can be conveyed without perfect pronunciation.

Natalia’s English is remarkably good. She owes part of her English proficiency to the 15 years she spent as a student and then a music teacher in

Israel, where English is widely spoken. In Belarus, she volunteered in their church choir and also taught piano lessons. Natalia is now looking for opportunities to act as an accompanist in music classes or for individual vocal students. She is a lovely woman who enjoys practicing her English conversational skills and seems to truly enjoy meeting and speaking with new people. Our community is certainly enriched by the presence of these new residents.

Obviously there are major differences between the cultures of Belarus and Minnesota; however, the most notable to Nadia are the economic and political situations. Our more stable economy is a positive, but even more appreciated are the personal freedoms we enjoy. Many in Belarus consider their president to be more of a dictator. Public dissension is not tolerated and neither is any active religious practice – both activities can result in imprisonment.

While adjustment to their new environment may be challenging, Nadia says that she likes our country. It is “…expanding our own views and also providing the opportunity to do what we had dreamed of. Together with my family, we will organize our lives, and after that, it will be as God guides us. In any case, I know everything will be fine! There is no other way to be in America.” What a wonderful attitude, especially at this time of year. What a great reminder this is of how fortunate we all are to be living in this nation where freedom really does reign.

(L-R) nadia Khomich and her father Siahrei, along with his wife natalia and their son daniel, all immigrated to the united States in September. Sandy FaRdeR

Community & Business Life PAGE 34


May your home be filled with warmth this Christmas

Season.

from all of us at

Urban’s Isanti Hardware

Happy Holidays from all of us at

St. Francis Dental CareSt. Francis

Merry Christmas to your family from ours!

Kids Country Childcare Center

in St. Francis

Kraig Domogalla

ResultsEach office Independently Owned and Operated

Best wishes for the new year from… in St. Francis

Season’s Greetings

in Nowthen

Best wishes for the holidays and coming new year

from

Just Ask Paul Computer RepairAndover

From our house to your house Happy Holidays from all of us at

Long Lake

Ice Fishing Contest

Saturday, February 2, 2013 on Long Lake in Isanti

Fundraiser for the Long Lake Improvement AssociationRegistration starts at 9:00 a.m. at Captain’s on Long Lake

Contest starts at 11:00 a.m. and runs until 2:00 p.m.

Contest rules are supplied and all fishing is held inside a

roped-off area on Long Lake.$10 cost per pre-drilled holeThere will be a RaffLe for

additional prizes—cost of ticket is $1 each—need not be present to

win raffle drawing prizes.There will also be a SiLent auCtion at Captain’s on

Long Lake during and after the ice fishing contest. Prizes will be awarded at Captain’s at 3:00 p.m.

Drive 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy 47, turn right on 277th to Long Lake.

CaSh PRizeSLargest Game fish .. $300

Most Game fish ...... $200 (minimum 3)

Smallest Game fish ...$50

first Bullhead ............$50

All cash prizes will be issued.

Kris BorinGSt. FranciS chriStian School

On November 12 Saint Francis Christian School (SFCS) presented a Veterans Day program entitled, Honoring All Who Served.

With over 100 in attendance, including 22 veterans, the students of SFCS performed a variety of patriotic songs and speeches. The program was the school’s way of expressing their thanks to the veterans who served our country.

The program also featured a special challenge from Vietnam veteran and retired sergeant, Rich Tuffs. After his time in Vietnam, Tuffs served for 20 years in the Army Reserves and fought in Desert Storm.

The program climaxed with all students singing God Bless America. Of the veterans in attendance at the program, their collective years of service totaled 240 years.

We thank our veterans for their sacrificial service.

Veterans honored at st. Francis Christian school

saint Francis Christian school students honored veterans november 12. Submitted Photo


Season’sGreetings Cedar Creek

Baking Co., Inc.in Oak Grove

Merry Christmas and best wishes for the coming

year.

Sara D. Sauer, C.P.A.

Celebrate the song of Christmas!

MUSIC & Consignment Center

www.reynoldsmusicanoka.com

Have a warm and fuzzy Christmas!Kids Central

Daycare Corp.in St. Francis

Merry ChristmasIsanti Physical Therapy

North Branch Physical Therapy

St. Francis Physical Therapy Wellness Center

Andover Physical Therapy

Ham Lake Physical Therapy

Full Service Salon & Spa

in Andover

Have a happy holiday season and a very healthy new year.

Get Fit by Lori St. Francis

May your Holidays be warm and

cozy.

5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47 to Long Lake Lutheran Church, then 1.7 miles west, follow signs.

Call 763-444-4118

We invite you to share a family

adventure and cut your own Christmas Tree!

Come visit the Christmas Shed for a great selection of homemade wreaths and gifts!

Open daily starting Friday after Thanksgiving, from sunup until sundown.

$2 Off a Haircut or $5 Off a Perm

Salon in East Bethel18423 Highway 65 NE

Call for an appointment 763-434-7575Expires 12/31/12. One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer.

Don’t forget your Holiday Gift

Certificates!

We can trim Oak & Elm trees now through March. Give us a call!

763-856-5432 or [email protected], removals, lot clearings, stump grinding.Specializing in winter Oak and Elm pruning.

Call for all your tree trimming needs and dangerous removals.

— www.macktreeinc.com —

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(Left) First grade students at st. Francis Elementary school took part in a special project to learn about Veterans Day and to honor America’s veterans. The students created thank you notes and get well cards for men and women serving our country and mailed them to the Minneapolis Veterans Home. The school’s front hallway sports two bulletin boards filled with stars honoring past and present members of all branches of the military. First grade families had the opportunity to fill out a star honoring a friend or family member who is an active service member or a veteran. First grade students Chelsey Anderson, Chance Leibel, Justin Hooker, Jacquelyn Mansergh, and Taylor Morehouse display their cards as they pose in front of one of the bulletin boards rapidly filling with stars to honor our local heroes. Submitted Photo

Happy Holidays!

from the staff at

Teddy Bear CareEast Bethel • Isanti


30539 Hwy 47 NW Bradford, MN 763-444-8111

www.Ravens47.comwww.Facebook.com/RavensInBradford

Business HoursMon-Sat: 11:00 am-1:00 amSun: 11:00 am-Midnight

Winter Kitchen HoursSun-Thurs: 11:00 am-9:00 pmFri & Sat: 11:00 am-10:00 pm

UPcoMINg EvENTSSaturday, December 8 • 8:00-10:00 pm

Comedy ClubSaturday, December 22 • 7:00 pm

Isanti County Sportsmen Club Raffle tickets on sale now

Friday, December 7 & 21 Moonlight Music DJ

Friday, December 14 & 28 Holm Made Sounds DJ & Karaoke

Military MondaysMonday Senior Citizen Discounts on meals

Bar Bingo on Monday • 7:00 pm Every Friday & Saturday • 7:00 pm

Meat Raffles $25 meat packs from Isanti Retail Meats!

vIKINgS FooTBALL

Food & Drink Specials during games

DEcEMBER SPEcIALAll You Can Eat

Broaster Chicken Tuesday

$1095 per person

Tuesdays in December begins at 4:00 p.m. (dine in only)

WE ARE

oPEN cHRISTMAS

5 pm - midnight Kitchen is Closed

NEW YEAR’S EvE "HoLLYWooD" PARTY Monday, December 31

9 pm - 1 amDoor prizes & cash prizes

Refreshment specials all night and sober cabs

available.

Other lOcatiOns are:Blaine, Coon Rapids, Ramsey, New Brighton, Maplewood,

Stillwater and Woodbury

Visit our website at www.acapulcomn.com

Coupon is valid at any of our locations. One coupon per

family, per visit. Expires January 1, 2013.

$5 OFFany purchase of $25 or moreMust purchase at least

two beverages.

NOW OPEN in Ham LakeVisit us at 18015 Ulysses street

Book your Holiday Party

here!

23212 St. Francis Boulevard NW Suite 1300 in St. Francis

763-954-9340WINTER HOURS: 10:30 am-9:00 pm

Buy $15 or more in DQ gift cards and be entered in the drawing to win free Blizzards® for a year.*

DQ gift cards make great

stocking stuffers!

* Offer is good through December 31, 2012. At St. Francis Dairy Queen only. Free Blizzards® consist of a voucher for one medium Blizzard® per month starting January 2013.

St. Francis City Centre 23212 St. Francis Blvd. Suite 400763-753-2599Sun 2-6 p.m. • Mon 12:30-8 p.m.Tues-Sat 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Stocking stuffers here!

Christmas cards, bags, gifts and toys.Paper products for Christmas and New Years.

Check out our Craft of the Week. Make and take a different craft each week!

MArTHA WEAVEranoka county Public inFormation manager

Every two years, more than 122,000 households in Anoka County receive the Recyclopedia, a guide produced by Anoka County about how to reduce waste, reuse resources, recycle more and dispose of materials safely.

The cover of the upcoming 2013-14 Recyclopedia will feature the photography of Blaine resident, Nancy Wold, who has lived and gardened in Anoka County for 33 years. According to Wold her garden has provided the inspiration for many images as it has evolved from a garden into a habitat for birds and butterflies.

“I often need to explain my garden to first time visitors – the random milkweed popping up here and there, the sunflowers that germinate from bird seed, the small brush pile,” said Wold.

“I have raised many monarch and swallowtail butterflies from egg to caterpillar to butterfly and documented their growth with photos. This transformation still seems magical to me. My garden is visited by bees, moths,

Winner of county photo contest announced

This photo, taken by nancy Wold of Blaine, will appear on the cover of the 2013-14 Anoka County recyclopedia. Submitted Photo

butterflies and other interesting insects. Birds nesting in my suburban yard include bluebirds, green herons, wrens, chickadees, robins, cat birds, brown thrush and even a mallard duck.”

“This is a great way to raise awareness of all the great information the Recyclopedia has to offer and to showcase the talents of our

Anoka County citizens,” said Anoka County Commissioner Jim Kordiak, who chairs the county’s Waste Management and Energy Committee.

In addition to the cover shot, additional photos were selected to be featured inside the Recyclopedia, on the county’s Pinterest boards, and on the county’s website www.anokacounty.us.


Five locations to serve you better

Isanti CountyEquipment, Inc.

North Hwy. 65Isanti, MN

763-444-8873

Scharber & Sons

Hwy. 101 & I-95Rogers, MN

763-428-4107

Suburban Lawn Center

Hwy. 65 & 147th Ave.Ham Lake, MN

763-755-2347

Scharber & Sons in Long Lake

2315 W. Wayzata Blvd. Long Lake, MN

952-473-5634

Weekend Freedom

7525 W. Hwy. 13 Savage, MN

952-890-9242

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Edina 952-831-8253St. Paul 651-291-5777

Testimonial of a Satisfied Customer:“…staff on the field trip LOVED it. The set up, the directions they received, and what your staff did during the trip made it go very smoothly. Our parents gave good reviews too! Thanks for a great trip!”Rachel - Kids Club Coordinator

Birthday PartiesHoliday PartiesGift Certificates

Eko BackenEko BackenEko BackenSnOw Tubing

Eko Backen22570 Manning Trail, Scandia, MN, 6 miles east of Forest Lake

www.ekobacken.com • 651-433-2422

The st. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting and lunch november 11 to welcome Beef ‘o’ Brady’s to the community. The event was well attended by Chamber board members and other area business owners. the courier Photo

The Friends of the isanti Area Library recently read to children at Faith Lutheran Church for the santa Breakfast hosted by Heavenly sunshine nursery school. Pictured (L-R) JJ, sue, rylee, Brody and Penny. The Friends of the isanti Area Library will be reading to children December 16 after the 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. masses at st. Elizabeth Ann seton. Anyone interested in joining the Friends of the isanti Area Library can call susi at 763-444-4585 for more information. Submitted Photo


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Full & assisted service all Year!Call us today and let us

help you plan and budget that special day.

MeAt Order SpeciAlS Save 5-15% on variety of packages to choose from Steak Lovers, Bulk, Pork,

Variety, Camper

starting at $62.99

Holiday SpecialsUSDA ChoiCe

SeASoneD or UnSeASoneD

Prime Rib Roast$9.99*/lb

*Price may vary.

Smoked Turkey .......................$3.59/lb

Fresh Turkey ..........................$1.99/lbPreMiUM SPeCiALiTY - 100% natural, certified range grown with no hormones or steroids, USDA Grade A individually inspected turkeys from northern Minnesota.

Smoked Ham ..........................$3.59/lbLimited supply, so call and reserve your order today.

We appreciate the year-round support of good friends like you, and we wish you

all the best at Christmas time and throughout the new year.

Meat & Cheese Party Trays SAVE 10%

• Wildgameprocessingyear-round.• Deerprocessing$90.• OpenextendedhoursinNovemberto acceptdeer.

• Allsmokedsausagevacuum-packed!• Allsmoking&sausagemakingdoneonsite.

Will guarantee your own meat back!19WestMainStreet,Isanti•763-444-9502

Fresh Wreaths • GarlandEvergreen Patio & Memorial Planters

Don’t miss our unique Holiday Trees with Theme Ornaments

AngelsBaking • Canning

CookbooksBirding

Western HorseHunting • FishingUp North Woods

Gardening • TractorsSantas • Skating

Many color theme trees

Green Barn Garden Center & Farm Market

3 miles S of Isanti, Hwy. 65 & 265thOpen 7 Days a Week9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

www.greenbarngardencenter.com

763-444-5725

Green Barn GrownRed, Russet or Yukon

Gold Potatoes Squash • Carrots

Onions • Rutabagas Beets

Honey • Syrup Wild Rice

Jams • Jellies • PopcornDried Beans

Bedding & Cover StrawBird Seed & Feed

We have hundreds of bird feeders

Happy Holidays!

763.753.3373www.northanokaplumbing.cominfo@northanokaplumbing.com

License Number 59361

Licensed • Bonded • InsuredYour source for complete plumbing solutions.

We hope you’re able to dash away from your hectic workload and enjoy a happy

holiday with the ones you love!

Happy Holidays

Fourth graders at East Bethel Community school have had the opportunity to learn about the overall school theme of respect. in october, they celebrated Grandparent’s Day. Each child invited one or more grandparents. Those who had extra grandparents shared with those whose grandparents couldn’t attend. They shared a meal, program, tour of the school and snacks. Submitted Photo

East Bethel Community school students invited veterans they know to visit school november 9 and share their experiences serving and protecting our country. There were veterans from WWii, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, iraq, Afghanistan and many that have served during peacetime or in other parts of the world. The students had cards, reports and music ready to show honor and respect for them. Submitted Photo

Independent School District 15 will be on winter break beginning December 24.

School will resume for students and staff on January 2.

Happy

Holidays!


All are welcome to the 17th Annual Live NAtivity

“One Night in Bethlehem”Saturday, December 8 • 4:00-7:30 p.m.

After viewing the Nativity, join us for chili and soup.

AdveNT WOrship serviCesWednesdays, December 5, 12, and 19 • 7:00 p.m.

Soup Supper 5:30-6:45 p.m.

ChrisTmAs WOrship serviCesChriStmAS eve

4:00 p.m. Service featuring a Cantata “A Blest messiah Born”

by Long Lake Lutheran Choir 10:30 p.m. Candlelight Worship Service

ChriStmAS DAy 9:30 a.m. Christmas Worship Service

pastor matt Flom & pastor Tyler Gubsch

LoNg LAke LutherAN ChurCh eLCA3921 277th Ave NW, Isanti, MN, 763-444-5315, www.longlakeluth.org

RegulaR WORSHIP SCHeDuleSunday

Blended Worship 8:45 & 10:30 a.m.Sunday School *8:45 & 10:30 a.m.

* Except the 2nd Sunday of the month, which is Family Worship

WednesdayMidweek Worship 6:00 p.m.

famil¼ mile west of Highway 65 on

Constance Boulevard, (CR 20/60)16345 Polk St. ne ham lake, mn 55304763.434.7337 www.foclutheran.org

Wednesday Advent Worshipdecember 5,12,19 at 5:00 and 7:00 p.m.“The Long Road to Bethlehem”Soup Supper, 5:45-6:45 p.m.

Christmas Eve Worship2:00 p.m. ✯ 4:00 p.m. ✯ 10:00 p.m.“Christ — The Great Exchange”

Christmas Day Worship10:00 a.m.

Worship Service&Outdoor Christmas

Carol Sunday, December 23

4:30 p.m.Woodbury Park

in St. FrancisFree hot cider,

cocoa and coffee

A Life-GivinG ChurCh

For the whole family!

Call 763-516-5995, visit sfbridge.org or follow

us on Twitter and Facebook for more details.

Our SaviOur’SLutheran ChurCh & PresChooL

Lessons & CarolsSunday, December 23 at 8:30 & 10:00 a.m.

Christmas carols and the story of the season.

Christmas Eve Worship Monday, December 24 • Communion at all services

12:30 p.m. • Band-led, contemporary worship, carols and children’s message

2:30 & 4:30 p.m. • Family-friendly worship and children’s message

9:00 & 10:30 p.m. • Candlelight worship

Christmas Day WorshipTuesday, December 25 at 8:30 a.m.

Worship at Chapel in Ham Lake, this is a Traditional Christmas service with Communion.

New Year Worship Sunday, December 30 at 8:30 & 10:00 a.m.

Pray for wisdom for our world and our lives.

19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel West of Hwy. 65 on County Road 22 and

south on Jackson StreetFor information call 763-434-6117 or visit

our website at www.oursaviourslc.org email to: [email protected]

ELC

A

LisA T. LynnbuSineSS adminiStrator, long lake lutheran church, elca

Long Lake Lutheran Church in Isanti will present a Live Nativity, One Night in Bethlehem, during several performances held Saturday, December 8 from 4:00 until 7:30 p.m.

The church is transformed into the town of Bethlehem. As our guests, please come meet the angel Gabriel, Mary and Joseph, the innkeeper’s wife, the shepherds and wisemen.

Smell the straw, see and visit with live animals. See the beautiful baby Jesus and come away with the true meaning of

CHris VinCEnTlead PaStor, the bridge

Okay, so I am a movie junkie! There are certain movies I must watch every Christmas. One of my “must watch” is The Family Man. It is somewhat of a spin-off of the classic It’s a Wonderful Life. The lead

character, Jack, is a New York businessman wrapped up in finances, work and himself. He doesn’t have time for a family, relationships or anyone else for that matter. Eventually Jack is given a “glimpse” of what his life could be like if he turned his actual life around. As

Long Lake Lutheran Church to present live nativity

Long Lake Lutheran Church will present a live nativity December 8. Submitted Photo

Christmas is the time for changewith many predictable movies, he starts out hating the glimpse and then starts to desire it as his reality. He realizes how important family is, how desperate he is for companionship, and what his real priorities ought to be. What he wanted for Christmas, money could not buy.

Here is the scoop: the reality of Christmas is around the corner. The whole reason Christ came as a babe into this world was for you. It’s not a great made up story, it’s a simple truth. I dare you to believe the story this year! The Bible says, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus was sent to earth to die so that you might have life. The only way that happens is by believing in Him. There is no greater gift than that, and it’s free. Jack wanted to change his life around. If you want to change yours, believe in Him today.

Share your story on The Bridge’s Facebook page.

Christmas in your hearts.After visiting Bethlehem,

join us in the Fellowship Hall for a chili and soup supper. Free will donations are accepted and used to help The Refuge and the Crisis Nursery. Grandma’s Attic is open with special baked goods and Christmas items for sale with proceeds going to Christmas Mission projects. Long Lake Lutheran Church can be reached at 763-444-5315.

Please join us.


A Live NativitySaturday, December 8

4:00-7:00 p.m. Re-enactment of the night of Jesus’ birth.

Chili, cookies and refreshments will be served.

Sunday School Christmas Program

Sunday, December 23 9:00 a.m.

Celebrate Christmas Eve

with Us Monday, December 24

Candlelight Service 4:00 p.m.

Our mission is to Invite, Ignite, and Excite all people about Jesus Christ!

COME AS A gUESt StAy AS FAMILy!

SUNDAy SChEDULE 9:00 a.m. Worship

10:30 a.m. Sunday School & Adult Study

18975 Lake george BoulevardOak grove

1/4 mile south of CR 22 on CR 9763-753-5717

www.newlifeoakgrove.org

Zion Lutheran Church & School of Crown

From Hwy. 47, 5 miles west on Cty. Rd. 8 or from Hwy 169 (Zimmerman) 6 miles east on Cty. Rd. 4,

then north on Cty. Rd. 7 one mile763-856-2099 • www.ZionLutheranCrown.com

TheLuTheran ChurChMissouri synod

Sunday,December 16Sunday School Christmas Program ............................ 9:00 a.m.Thursday, December 20 Crown Christian School’s Christmas Program .......... 7:00 p.m.Monday, December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service ............................. 7:00 p.m.Tuesday, December 25Christmas Day Service ................................................ 9:00 a.m.

763-441-1600 • www.nowthenalliance.org

19653 Nowthen Boulevard NW, Anoka, MNIntersection of CR 5 & 22 in Nowthen

The Christmas Promise

The Christmas Promise

Christmas Eve Worship Services2:00 & 4:00 p.m. Monday, December 24

Weekly Sunday Services8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship

9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship

“See Christ in All and Be Christ to All.”Please join us as we celebrate Christmas

ADvent SACrAment oF reConCILIAtIonSaturday, December 15 at St. Katharine’s 10:30 am-Noon

Tuesday, December 18 2012 Reconciliation Day at St. Stephen’s (Anoka) Noon-8:00 pm

Wednesday, December 19 at St. Katharine’s 6:30-8:30 pm

CHrIStmAS CeLebrAtIonChristmas Caroling 15 minutes before Mass

December 24 Christmas Eve 3:00 pm • Christmas Vigil 5:15 pmDecember 25 Christmas Day 8:00 & 10:00 am

reguLAr mASS SCHeDuLeSaturdays 4:30 pm

Sundays 8:00 am & 10:00 amSee our complete Mass schedule at

www.stkdcc.org

7101 143rd Avenue, Suite G, Ramsey763-323-4424 • www.stkdcc.org

5730 179th lane nW (highway 47 and county road 27) ramsey, mn

763-753-2057 www.crossofhope.net

Pastor Brian Mundt

Saturday, December 15 Free Christmas Concert "O Holy Night"

open to the public7:00 p.m.

Monday, December 24 Christmas Eve services

3:00 p.m. Sonshine choir Singing 4:30 p.m. rainbow choir Singing 10:30 p.m. candlelight Service with choir & orchestra

Faith ListingsAbundant Life Alliance Church

3840 197th Avenue NWOak Grove • 763-753-0284 www.AbundantLife4U.org

Bethel Community Church23860 Dewey Street NW

Bethel • 763-434-9834

Catholic Church of st. Patrick19921 Nightingale Street NW

Oak Grove • 763-753-2011www.st-patricks.org

Cedar United Methodist Church17541 Jefferson Street NEHam Lake • 763-434-7463

email: [email protected]

Cross of Hope Lutheran Church5730-179th Lane NW

Ramsey • 763-753-2057 www.crossofhope.net

First Baptist Church & Christian school K–12

22940 St. Francis BoulevardSt. Francis • 763-753-1230 www.fbcsaintfrancis.com

Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church16180 Round Lake Boulevard

Andover • 763-421-8434 www.hopeluth.net

Living Hope Evangelical Free Church

23038 Rum River BoulevardSt. Francis • 763-753-1718 www.LivingHopeEFC.org

Long Lake Lutheran Church3921 277th Avenue NW

Isanti • 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.org

new Life Church17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW

Ramsey • 763-421-0166 www.newlifemn.org

new Life Lutheran Church LCMC18975 Lake George Boulevard NW

Oak Grove • 763-753-5717 www.newlifeoakgrove.org

our saviour’s Lutheran Church 19001 Jackson Street NE

East Bethel • 763-434-6117 www.oursaviourslc.org

The Bridge Meets at St. Francis Elementary

22919 St. Francis Boulevard St. Francis • 763-516-5995

www.sfbridge.org

West Bethel United Methodist Church

1233 221st Avenue NE Cedar • 763-434-6451

Christmas Concert

Nationally known recording artist Michael Russell O’Brien will return to the area December 15, 7:00 p.m., for a special concert at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 207 County Road 23, Isanti. Tickets are $10 general admission, $15 for reserved seats. Call 763-444-5226 for more information.

For more on O’Brien, visit www.sacredtown.com. Michael russell o’Brien

File Photo


$300 Off Any X-Large Pizza 2 or more toppings

St. Francis Mansetti’s OnlyNot valid with any other specials or coupons.

763-753-4577 • Expires 1/8/13.

$100 OFF any Calzone

Valid on Dine-In St. Francis Mansetti’s OnlyNot valid with any other specials or coupons.

763-753-4577 • Expires 1/8/13.

Hwy 47 & Pederson Drive, St. francis, MN

763-753-4577Place your order online at

www.mansettis-pizza.com Sun 11:30 am-9:30 pm; Mon-Th 11 am-9:30 pm; Fri 11 am-11 pm; Sat 11:30 am-10:30 pm

We deliver PRemiUm

Pizza straight to you!

Tuesdays Kids Eat FREE!

one with each paid adult.

Family DealLarge thin crust 2 topping pizza,

6 piece garlic toast and 2 liter pop

$1999Only+tax

$150 Off Any Regular Size Pasta Dinner Featuring Lasagna, Chicken Alfredo, Rigatoni or Spaghetti

Valid on Dine-In St. Francis Mansetti’s OnlyNot valid with any other specials or coupons.

763-753-4577 • Expires 1/8/13.

St. Francis American Legion Post 622

3073 Bridge Street • St. Francis • 763-753-4234

Monday-Friday�� 11 a�m�-2 p�m� Daily Lunch Specials

Monday NEW Bucket/Pizza Night Specials

Tuesday ��5 p�m� until gone Broasted Chicken Basket

Wednesday Mexican Night ��5-8 p�m� Meat Give-Away �� 6 p�m� Buy first drink - get a ticket!

Thursday Bar Bingo; Pizza Night Free slice of home-made cheese pizza with purchase of a drink�

Friday Meat Raffle; Karaoke with Music Box

Saturday Karaoke with Music Box

Sunday Bingo �� 4:00 p�m�NEW Pull Tabs Weekly Giving back to the community Charitable Gambling License #A-01520-003Reception Hall Rental No cost to nonprofit organizations

Breakfast with Santa December 8 • 9:00-11:30 a.m.Sponsored by St� Francis Lioness/Lions Club�Bring a camera to take pictures with Santa�

Pancake BreakfastSaturday, December 15 7:00-11:00 a.m.Sunday, December 16 8:00 a.m.-noonFamily $15, Adults $5, Children $3, under 5 free

All proceeds go toward the 2013

St� Francis Pioneer Days� Sponsored by the

St� Francis Area Chamber of Commerce�

We will be closed Christmas Day.

Ring in the NeW YeAr here!

St. Francis United Methodist Church

3914-229th Avenue in St. Francis across from St. Francis Elementary

www.stfrancis-umc.com 763-753-2273

Celebrate the Birth of Our Saviour

Sundays, December 9 & 16 • 6:30 p.m. Advent Study

from The Journey By Hamilton Soup Supper at 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 19 join us for the Blue Christmas Service

7:00 p.m. A time to remember… a time to pray.

Monday, December 24Christmas Eve Soup Supper

Open to all 5:30 p.m.Candlelight Service

7:00 p.m.

Continue sharing gifts with others Red Cross Bloodmobile will be here

Wednesday, December 27, 2:00-7:00 p.m.

There is always a place waiting for you with us.Sunday School • 9:15 a.m. for 6th grade-adult;

10:30 a.m. preschool-5th gradeWorship 10:30 a.m.

Living Hope Evangelical Free Church

Join us in‘The Advent Conspiracy’

Worship Fully

Spend Less

Give More

Love All

www.LivingHopeEFC.org

Sundays at 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. at our Ministry Center across from St. Francis High School

763.753.1718 AdventConspiracy.org

PAsTor JEFFrEy BErGMAnneW liFe! lutheran church

New Life! Lutheran is celebrating its fifth year of their annual drive through Live Nativity. We are so excited to offer this special experience again, and this year we will be offering a chili dinner available to all who attend. The Live Nativity will run from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 8. People from all over the area will be able to step back some 2,000 years to see the live reenactment of the night of Jesus’ birth. Along with Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds and wisemen,

new Life! Lutheran Church to present live nativity and chili dinner December 8

there will be live animals and carolers. Visitors are welcome to drive through and see the nativity, or there will be an option for parking and an area to take your time and walk past the live scene. Please come with your family and friends and join us for chili, coffee, hot chocolate, hot cider and Christmas cookies inside the church building after your visit to the Live Nativity.

New Life! Lutheran Church

is located on County Road 9 (Lake George Boulevard), two blocks south of County Road 22 (Viking Boulevard). If you do not have a church home, please come and visit. Visit our website www.newlifeoakgrove.org for service times and Sunday School/adult study information.

Merry Christmas and remember the reason for this season is Jesus.

new Life! Lutheran will hold a live nativity December 8. Visitors are also invited to a chili dinner inside the church. Submitted Photo


Letters to the editor PoLicyThe Courier reserves the right to reject any letter submitted and edit letters for clarity, length, and grammar. Be timely—visit www.the-courier.org for deadline information.include contact information—include your full name, title (optional), city, and daytime phone number. Unsigned letters or those submitted without a phone number will not be considered. Be clear & concise—make one main point in 200 words or less. Be accurate—letters that are factually inaccurate will not be printed.Be considerate—only one letter per author every 60 days. Regular contributors should submit letters on varied subjects. Letters by the same author that reiterate opinions previously expressed may not be published. Writers must either live within District 15 or be writing about an issue specific to our coverage area. submissions—letters can be sent by email to [email protected], by U.S. mail to The Courier, 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis, MN 55070, or by fax to 763-753-4693.other—thank-you letters that relate to a public event, organization, or official are not considered letters to the editor. Contact the editor regarding submitting that information. Viewpoints expressed in a letter to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of Independent School District 15 or The Courier staff.

Letter to the editor No letters were received this month.

Dumpster Rental • We Haul Junk Cars• 6 • 10 • 15 • 20 • 30

yard dumpsters• Household junk• Construction debris• We also load junk

for you

Besides hauling junk cars we also remove metal. Ask about snow plowing.

763-444-6992a1rolloffs.com

5th Annual

Santa & the Fire TruckSanta and the Fire Truck is teaming up with St. Francis Firefighters, St. Francis High School

Dance Team and St. Francis Ambassadors to walk through neighborhoods to collect food donations for the North Anoka County Emergency Food Shelf and hand

out candy canes to the children. Friday, December 7, 6:00-9:00 p.m. the route will be Kerry Street, Ivywood, 235th and the Stone House Ridge neighborhood, then traveling south on Arrowhead Street.

Friday, December 14, 6:00-9:00 p.m. the route will start at Guarani Street, travel down 230th, to 229th, stop

at the Deer Creek 2nd Park located at 4138 232nd Ave NW and finish at Navajo street.

If you are unable to visit during these times, please feel free to leave a bag of goods at the end of your driveway for us to

pickup. Donations may also be dropped off at St. Francis City Hall, 23340 Cree Street NW.

For more information, call the St. Francis Fire Department at 763-753-2334.

ELAinE KoEHnanoka county hiStorical Society

The public is invited to view the newest addition to the clothing exhibit at the Anoka County History Center and Library, located at 2135 Third Avenue North in Anoka.

Clothing the County is an exhibition of clothing from the permanent collections of the historical society and will feature more than two dozen dresses, gowns, uniforms and more. This exhibit examines the history of fashion including trendy society to working clothing. Political clothing is our newest addition featuring clothing worn by county commissioners Natalie Steffen, Dennis Berg, Martin Bean and others during their campaign for office.

During the 16th and 17th

centuries, you could tell the trade of an Englishman by the color of his apron; the idea of gender specific clothing for young children did not begin until just before WWI (1917) and the first woman to be shown pregnant on TV was Lucille Ball in the 1950s. These are just a few of the themes that will be explored in the exhibit.

The exhibit is free on the first Tuesday of every month. The historical society is also open Wednesday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A minimal fee of $3 for adults and $2 for children ages 6-17 is charged. Reduced prices are available for groups of 15 or more of $2.50 for adults and $1.50 for children ages 6-17. Admission is free to members and children under 6.

Clothing the County new exhibit at Anoka County History Center

Oak Ridge Auto Body Inc.

23428 Hwy. 65 NE2 Blks S of CR 24 on Hwy. 65

763-434-4772

East Bethel Auto Body Inc.

2817 E. Viking Blvd.Next to E. Bethel Fire Station

763-434-7373Recommended by insurance companies

Ask about a free loaner car • Owners John and Lori Buchta

Friendly and dependable serviceCOllIsIOn spECIAlIsts

TinA PErPiCHanoka-ramSey community college

The Anoka-Ramsey Community College Music Department extends a warm invitation to a free, choral masterworks concert featuring the music of JS Bach, Johannes Brahms and Randol Bass scheduled for two evenings in December:} Tuesday, December 11, 7:30 p.m., Coon Rapids Campus

Performing Arts Center} Friday, December 14, 7:30 p.m., Cambridge-Isanti High School

Both concerts combine the Cambridge Campus Concert Choir, the Coon Rapids Campus Concert Choir, and the Chorale on one stage. The Chamber Singers Ensemble will open the concert. An orchestra of the college’s talented faculty and other professional musicians from all over the Twin Cities will accompany the choirs.

The music will take the audience on a roller coaster ride. Bach’s Weihnachts Oratorium is a prime example of the exuberant nature of the high baroque. Schicksalslied by Brahms takes the listener from the heavenly opening to the depths of despair and back again. Bass’ Symphony of Carols is a lush medley with something for everyone, and it includes an audience sing-along at the end.

For more information about the Music Department public events at Anoka-Ramsey Community College, visit AnokaRamsey.edu.

College to host free concerts 4-H offers winter camps for kids!AnnA GiLBErTson4-h Program coordinator u oF m extenSion

Winter camps and outdoor adventures are being offered through the University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County 4-H. These programs are held at 4-H Camp Salie located in Linwood Township. Camps are open to 4-H and non-4-H youth. These camps encourage learning about nature and the environment, making new friends and indoor and outdoor recreation! Campers will participate in a variety of crafts and special projects. overnight camps

February 15-16, grades 2-5February 22-23, grades 6 & up

Day CampFebruary 16, grades K-5For more information and

registration form: z.umn.edu/WntrCmps, visit our website at www.extension.umn.edu/county/anoka, or call 763-755-1280.

Free Dollars into sense classrosEMAry K. HEinsextenSion educator univerSity oF minneSota extenSion

Anoka County Extension Staff and Dollar Works Volunteers will present a free Dollars into Sense class on Tuesday, December 18 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bunker Hills Activities Center (550 Bunker Lake Boulevard, Andover) and again at 7:00 p.m. at the Anoka County Human Services Center (1201 89th Avenue, Blaine). To register, call University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County, at 763-755-1280 at least three days prior to the class you wish to attend. Classes will cover budgeting and address credit issues, tracking expenses, making a spending plan, goal setting and how to get help.


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auTO glaSSAuto glass Repaired & Replaced

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763-444-923430678 Hwy 47 NW

Isanti, MN

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Tot Shop for Mom & Popsponsored by the ISD 15 Early Childhood Advisory Council

A unique holiday shopping experience for children birth to kindergarten.

Young children can purchase their choice of gifts for moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas, or siblings, plus have them wrapped. Volunteers will take

your child shopping, while you wait. Gifts are $1 each.

Don’t have time for dinner? Don’t worry. Pizza and

beverages will be available for purchase.

Join us Friday, December 7

5:00-7:30 p.m.Lifelong Learning Center

18900 Cedar Drive NW Oak Grove

Preschool Place 15 and Early Childhood Family Education

are divisions of ISD 15 Community Education

Shop the Scholastic Book Fair.

St. Francis Middle School 7th grade students in Jessica Rowles’ class were asked "What do you think most people take for granted and why in regards to Thanksgiving?" Below are some of the students’ responses.

What do you think most people take for granted that they ought to be grateful for around Thanksgiving time? Well I think that most people are grateful for their families around Thanksgiving time. One of the things that I know I am grateful for is getting to see everyone that I haven’t seen

Students share Thanksgiving thoughtsin a while at Thanksgiving. I think that most people are grateful for their families because, around that time people realize how lucky or grateful they are to have such a loving and caring family. When you need someone to talk to or need a shoulder to cry on, you can always go to your family for advice or help. That’s what I think most people are grateful for and ought to be grateful for their families around Thanksgiving. - Andrea Fischer

One thing I think we take for granted and should be

thankful for is the food we eat. Some countries all over the world have either so little food that they starve or no food at all. Some people say stuff like “Well they have animals they could chop up, bake or fry to keep the countries full and alive.” Well the problem with that is animals carry diseases and people can get diseases and die. While we eat at our fancy restaurants they are struggling to get the best scraps at the little market ways that are in the streets of a town or city. Even the United States are getting hit with these problems. When Hurricane Sandy hit the East Coast it knocked out the power causing a problem with the food system. It is a problem without a solution. There is a group called Feed My Starving Children. Feed My Starving Children is a non-profit Christian organization committed to “feeding God’s

st. Francis High school students, staff and teachers raised over 1,500 pounds of food during their food drive in november! The food drive was sponsored by the student council and the food donated went to the high school food shelf and the north Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf. Pictured are student council members Cayman salitros and Megan Wines.

kimberly dilauro rieF, SFhS community relationS coordinator

Art students from st. Francis High school held their first trimester art exhibit on november 12. These awards were selected by the guests that visited the exhibit. overall People’s Choice Award – Brandon Gilmer; Painting Best of show – Kailey Meyer; Drawing Best of show – Josh Daughtery; Ceramics Best of show – Blake rehani; sculpture Best of show – Maggie Ewen (not pictured).

kimberly dilauro rieF, SFhS community relationS coordinator

children hungry in body and spirit.” This is how you help out, it’s really easy: all you have to do is pack meals for adults and children and ship the meals to nearly 70 countries around the world. So that’s why I think we take for granted and should be thankful for is the food we eat. - Ashley Keller

I think most people are grateful on Thanksgiving be-cause they have so many peo-ple to thank. Like the fact that you have family and friends who care for you and also for others. Also people know that you have helped them out by donating food to the food shelf so they can also enjoy a nice plate of food that they probably usually can’t have because they just can’t afford it. The main thing is people come together to tell stories, talk about loved ones, and the people that have passed. The reason why I know why these people are grate-ful for the same things is my family does the same thing, my

friends also, and you always see it on television on the news about donations, parades, and other special events. - Kaydee Bjork

The thing I think most people take for granted is their family. If we have a loved one that has died or is away whether they are at war or live far away they start to not talk about them as much and not think about them as much as they used to before they left or last time they saw that person. When a person that you care about or love dearly is going away you try as hard as you can to spend as much time with that specific person. When someone you love has passed away you remember all the fun times you had with them and talk about them constantly. My aunt lives in North Carolina and when she comes and visits me I spend as much time with her as I can. Start spending time with each other; they might have to leave sometime soon. - Anna Carlson

I think that most people don’t realize how much human life has changed over the years. Long ago you had to grow your own crops and you had to ask yourself this question; “Should I eat the food or sell it to somebody else or even trade it for something?” Nowadays, you still ask yourself the same question, but one third different from the last, “Should I grow and eat the crops, grow and sell the crops, or go to the grocery store and buy locally grown crops?” Some people still grow crops, but maybe not because they have to, but because they want to. We have machinery to help us do things like grow crops for grocery stores in the present, but in the past we didn’t. On Thanksgiving day, think about how much easier life is and thank the people of the past for helping create the future. - Brianna Herting

One thing people take for granted is family. You always think your family is going to be there, and they’re never going to get sick, they’re never going to pass away. It isn’t your family’s job to do your chores or your share of the work. They’re there to protect you from danger. They’re there to encourage you, and to be your best friend. When your family leaves you, that’s when you realize that you took your family for granted. You should always be thankful that you have a family, because you never know when they’re not going to be there. So always be grateful for one another and don’t take each other for granted. - Renee Blucher


THANK YOUTo the Residents of Bradford, Spencer Brook &

Stanford Townships in Isanti County —

THANK YOU for the trust and the confidence you have placed

in me to be YOUR County Commissioner for the next four years.

I WILL work tirelessly on YOUR behalf to truly and honestly represent YOUR views, and respect YOUR opinions, as I

represent YOU on the Isanti County Board of Commissioners.

Greg AndersonDistrict # 3 Commissioner Elect for

Bradford , Spencer Brook & Stanford TownshipsYou can always reach me at

763-444-4497 – or – www.gregcanderson.comPrepared and paid for by the greg Anderson election Committee,

3500 County Rd. 5 NW, Isanti, MN 55040-5922.

3073 Bridge Street St. Francis

763-753-4234Sponsored by the

St. Francis American Legion Auxiliary Unit 622

Tuesdays 5 p.m. til gone

St. FranciS american Legion

New Life Indoor Craft Show,

flea Market & Coffee ShopSaturday, December 15 • 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Handmade craft items, antiques, kids and teen items, collectibles, and more!

Sloppy Joes, hot dogs, chips, pop and specialty handcrafted coffee beverages available.

New Life Church17261 St. Francis Blvd. NW • Ramsey, MN 55303 • 763-421-0166

Vendors wanted, contact Amy at 763-421-0166.

Come Check Us

Out!

DAVE AnDErsoniSd 15 School board member

On November 9, I attended the second annual Breakfast for Veterans event. This was sponsored by the St. Francis Lions Club and was a free breakfast event for veterans and their families held at the St. Francis American Legion Post 622. I attended the event with my father, a Navy veteran of World War II.

Many local veterans were in attendance and many Lions members were helping serve the breakfast. The food was great and the chance to visit with community members was a treat as well.

There was the Posting of the Colors as the welcome was led by St. Francis Lions member Mike Starr. The St. Francis Middle School Show Choir and Jazz Band gave some incredible performances during the morning program.

The guest speaker was John Kriesel who is the current Anoka County Veterans Service Officer. Kriesel served in Iraq with the Minnesota Army National Guard and after his return home was elected to a one-term position to the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Kriesel spoke of the timeline in his life as a young man to the present. When he started speaking I felt as if he was speaking to only us, the breakfast audience. As he continued with his presentation, it was interesting to see how he brought his own youthful experiences into relationship with the middle school students that were present and listening to Kriesel as well.

He spoke of his thoughts and dreams for the future, his own personal challenges and visions of where he wanted to be in life growing up. When he spoke of his service to his country, I could sense the pride to which he devoted his service life.

When Kriesel spoke of his military vehicle encounter with an IED (improvised explosive device) and the following loss of both legs due to the explosion, he never gave the impression of having a “poor me” attitude. Rather, he realized he was luckier than some others that he had served with. He spoke of doing more for others, of being with his family and being home. He spoke of serving others again in the

Guest speaker Anoka County Veterans officer John Kriesel is pictured with Mike starr of the st. Francis Lions. the courier Photo

Area veterans honored at breakfast

House of Representatives. He continued to express to the students and all of us, that “in life, the attitude you bring to the table is what matters.”

Kriesel definitely knows what sacrifices he has made; but more importantly he knows how important a positive attitude can be in going through the challenges of life. This is a much condensed version of a great speech but the point of Kriesel’s statement for me, of personal attitude, is important for us all. He thanked all the veterans for their service as he left to make more presentations during the day and weekend.

As the Legion Post 622 retired the colors, we clapped to the military song tribute Starr prepared to honor all the Armed Forces (Army, Navy,

Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard). I was glad to have had the opportunity to attend the breakfast, listen to the students perform and Kriesel deliver his message.

I wondered how many lives had been impacted by the event and what changes may take place because of someone’s words of encouragement and thankfulness!

Thank you to the St. Francis Lions and all who served at this event, along with the St. Francis Middle School performing students and teachers.

I would like to extend a special thank you to Kriesel for his service and message.

Most of all, thank you to all who have served or continue to serve in our Armed Forces.

information for the January 9, February 6 and March 6 Couriers

Janice Audette 763-753-7032 office763-238-5072 cell 763-753-4693 fax

[email protected]

ISSue DeaDlINe DelIveRy January december 10-14 January 9-13

February January 14-18 February 6-10

Reasons to advertise in The Courier:

January MN Winter • Health & Wellness annual tax Page

February Hearts & Flowers • Lent Begins

March St. Patrick’s Day • Easter

The Courier4115 ambassador blvd. St. Francis, mn 55070

read the courier online: www.the-courier.org

Win FRee advertising when you advertise January, February and March!

Please submit your ad early for better placement.

thank you for your business!


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Collectible toys – John Deere,

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Stop by – see what

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763-753-6614www.highlandmoneymgmt.com

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Serving the local community

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Retirement

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Don iLsEanoka county human ServiceS

Six families came together November 17 to share an important event—the adoption of their children.

A total of 12 children, ranging in age from 3 to 18, were adopted in an Anoka County courtroom as part of National Adoption Day.

One by one, the families completed the legal process as the other families watched and applauded. First up was Nathan and Jennifer of Coon Rapids, who have provided foster care for six siblings

since June 8, 2012.“Your life changed on that

day,” said Judge Bethany Fountain Lindberg. Then she asked if they were prepared to take the next step.

“Are you ready for all of the rights and responsibilities, including financial, health, education and everything else that a birth parent would have?” Fountain Lindberg asked.

Nathan and Jennifer didn’t hesitate. In fact, they’d recommend adoption to anyone considering it.

“It’s hard and it’s worth

A dozen children adopted in Anoka County on National Adoption Day

A dozen children were adopted into six families november 17 with help from Judge Bethany Fountain Lindberg (in black robe). Pictured are the newly created families. Submitted Photo

Appointments now accepted for passport applicationsMArTHA WEAVEranoka county Public inFormation manager

Applying for a passport can take upwards of 30 minutes, and more if you are applying for multiple family members. To help customers save time and make the passport application process easier, Anoka County now offers the option of making an appointment to submit your passport application at either the Ramsey or Blaine License Centers. Go to anokacounty.us/passport and use the easy online tool to schedule a time that’s convenient for you. You can even have your passport photos taken at the license centers.

Passport applications are accepted at the Blaine and Ramsey License Centers only at the following times:} Blaine License Center 10995 Club West Parkway,

Suite 700 Monday/Tuesday/

Wednesday/Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Thursday 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Closed Saturday and

Sunday} Ramsey License Center 7550 Sunwood Drive NW

Suite A (in Ramsey City Hall) Monday/Wednesday/

Thursday/Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Closed Saturday and

Sunday

it,” Jennifer said.“It can be challenging to

step into a child’s life, but the smiles, laughter and joy make the effort very worthwhile,” she said.

Some of the adoptions were by relatives. Family ties can complicate things sometimes, but love finds a way, according to Jeremy, a North Branch resident and a new father to a smiley, four-year-old girl.

“We have an open adoption and setting up visitations for the birth parent is hectic,” Jeremy said. “But it’s worth it. She’s the light of my life and I wouldn’t be who I am without those two,” he said, referring to his fiancée and newly adopted daughter.

The families are to be commended for their devotion and determination, according to Anoka County Commissioner Robyn West.

“You are an inspiration,” West said.

Cindy Cesare, director of Anoka County’s Community Social Services and Mental Health, thanked the social workers and assistant county attorneys involved with the families.

“They care deeply for your children,” Cesare told the families. “They want the best for all of you.”

To find out more about adopting, contact Nancy Le at 763-422-7104.

Editor’s Note: Last names have been omitted to protect the families’ privacy.

oak Grove seniors to host driver safety class January 12

Oak Grove Seniors will host a four-hour 55 Alive driver safety class 1:00-5:00 p.m., January 12, at the Oak Grove Senior Center, 19900 Nightingale Ave., Oak Grove. Cost is $12 for RSVP members and $14 for all others. For more information contact Betty Bearl at 763-753-2973.

30 Years of Experience5800 236th Avenue NW • St. Francis

Call for appointment 763-753-4601Specializing in permS and color


All AppliAnce DisposAlRecycling Appliances, Electronics & More

Residential & Commercial18641 Hwy 65 NE, East Bethel

612-865-9570www.AllApplianceDisposal.com

$5 oFF Bring this ad in and receive $5 Off your next disposal. Not valid with any other offer.

St. Francis Insurance Agency

across from st. Francis high school763-753-3595

call Gary Zimmerman today for a free policy review and quote!

Auto • Home • Business • Boat • Risk • Recreation

St. Francis Insurance Agency

Season’s Greetings

24 Hour Towing & recovery 763-434-1686www.gerdinauto.com

’Tis the season to share our thanks for your business and friendship.

763-753-4993St. Francis • 3128 Bridge StreetServing this community since 1977

We install Remote Start Systems from $339

Happy Holidays—best wishes for 2013!

763-753-27213745 Bridge Street • St. Francis, MN

Sannerud, SavareSe & aSSociateS, p.a.Certified Public Accountants

Specializing in accounting and taxes for closely-held and family-owned businesses since 1974.

Office hours Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or by appointment

763-434-59291207 Constance Blvd. NE • Ham Lake, MN 55304

www.sannerudsavarese.com 1/12

JiLL sMiTHanoka county library

Take a step back in time and experience the Christmas season as it was celebrated by Civil War soldiers and their families. Join us at Circle Pines City Hall, near the Centennial Library in Circle Pines, Saturday, December 15 from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., for Civil War Christmas.

“These days it’s easy to take what we have for granted,” said Anoka County Commissioner Rhonda Sivarajah. “It’s important to put it in perspective by seeing how families overcame insurmountable odds and still found reason to give thanks for the things they did have.”

Learn about historical traditions of the season—from decorating a tree the way it may have been in the 1860s, to discussing gifts and favorite holiday foods. This hands-on approach to the history of the Civil War and Christmas traditions features family friendly learning stations,

activities, and the chance to interact with costumed interpreters from the Second Minnesota Battery as they share stories and talk about life in the 1860s.

“The Civil War was a difficult time for many families on the Minnesota frontier,” said Library Board President Bob Thistle. “Learn how they still celebrated for the holidays, both in the camp and on the home front.”

Circle Pines City Hall is located at 200 Civic Heights Circle in Circle Pines. This program is free and open to the public, but seating may be limited. The program is presented by the Anoka County Historical Society, sponsored by the Anoka County Library, and funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

For more information about this and other library programs, call 763-717-3294 or visit your local Anoka County Library or the website at anokacountylibrary.org.

Local history comes to life for a Civil War Christmas in Circle PinesALiCiA LoEHLEin

StaFF Writer

A special meeting of the Independent School District 15 School Board was held November 14, 2012. The hearing was held before Independent Hearing Officer James Martin on the proposed removal of ISD 15 board member Matt Rustad from the School Board for plagiarism. According to Minnesota law, public school boards are allowed to vote to remove one of its own members—unlike other publicly elected boards, which must hold a public recall election.

Minnesota Statute 123B.09 regarding boards of independent school districts states: “The board may remove, for proper cause, any member or officer of the board and fill the vacancy; but such removal must be by a concurrent vote of at least four members, at a meeting of whose time, place, and object the charged member has been duly notified, with the reasons for such proposed removal and after an opportunity to be heard in defense against the removal.”

ISD 15 administration was notified that School Board member Matt Rustad’s column for the September 2012 issue of The Courier was plagiarized from an online source. The school district removed Rustad’s article from the district website. However, the 14,500 printed copies of the September issue had already been delivered to area residents, businesses and ISD 15 staff.

At the September 24 School Board meeting, Rustad was unanimously censured by the board, although four board members (David Anderson, Janet Glover, Harry Grams, Amy Kelly) expressed concern that censure (official reprimand) was not a strong enough response to Rustad’s action and called for him to resign.

Anderson proposed a resolution that Rustad be removed from the board. Board Chairwoman Marsha Van Denburgh advised consulting legal counsel and the Minnesota School Boards Association first. That is when holding an independent hearing was recommended and scheduled.

Independent Hearing Officer James Martin heard the cases presented by the school district and Rustad. Several witnesses gave sworn

Hearing held for school board membertestimony. Amy Mace, ISD 15 legal counsel of Ratwik, Roszak & Maloney, P.A., presented reasons why Rustad should be removed, including his admission of plagiarism and subsequent statements of falsehoods about the incident. Luke Enno of Enno Law Firm, LLC, argued that his client, Rustad, should not be removed because this incident is not proper cause for removal according to Minnesota Statute 123B.09.

Details were discussed from a meeting held September 10 after the regular School Board meeting involving Rustad, Superintendent Ed Saxton, Human Resources Director David Lindberg, Assistant Community Education Director Troy Ferguson and Board Chairwoman Van Denburgh. At that meeting, Rustad first denied the plagiarism allegation. He then said he had submitted the wrong document to The Courier and presented his intended article at this meeting. Saxton and Lindberg testified that they did not find Rustad’s story credible. By the end of that meeting Rustad admitted he made a mistake.

Board members Kelly and Anderson testified that they did not feel censure was enough. Kelly said Rustad is a role model and what he did was wrong and goes against the board’s code of conduct. Anderson said he felt Rustad misled the district and that his action was not a simple mistake but a planned

deception of the public and School Board. Van Denburgh testified that censure was the appropriate action and she was concerned that an elected official can be removed by just four votes.

Enno argued that the law referring to “proper cause” was unclear and that the censure was enough. Rustad testified that his submission of the article in question was a bad decision and that while he did at first deny he had plagiarized, he eventually admitted his wrongdoing and now it is time to move on. He said he believes his censure and public admission is sufficient and continued talk of the matter has subjected him to public humiliation and harassment. Rustad agreed that plagiarism is wrong and that as a School Board member he should be held to a code of ethics.

Mace closed stating that there is proper cause to remove Rustad for the intentional act of plagiarism and the falsehoods he stated after he had been caught. Enno argued that plagiarism is not cause for removal and no further action is necessary.

The hearing officer will review the findings and return his recommendation to the School Board by December 5. The board will act on the matter at the December 10 board meeting and if four board members vote to remove Rustad, the resolution for removal will pass.


i hate when that haPPens rAnDy GErDin aSe certiFied technician

Larry D. Anderson, GRIREALtoR®

23038 Rum River Boulevard NWSt. francis, Minnesota 55070

Cell: (763) 360-4551office: (763) 323-8080

fax: (763) [email protected]

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NOw LeasiNg400 or 1100 Sq Ft

in St. Francisoffice/Retail

SpaceHeat and A/C included23306 & Cree Street NW

1 block west of Highway 47 in St. Francis

Call Tony at

763-444-4425 or 612-209-2327

or visit www.showcase.com

Blake A CheeleyFinancial Advisor

23306 Cree Street NWSt. Francis, MN 55070763-753-2988

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

During this holiday season and every day of the year,we wish you all the best.

Lynn Karasch, MBA, CPASpecializing in Individual & Small Business Returns

By appointmentPhone 763-413-3090Fax 763-434-4739

www.ldkaccounting.comOpen year round for all of your accounting needs.

• Accounting & Bookkeeping Services

• Consulting• Payroll Services• Business Startup

Services

ServiceS include: Individual Income Taxes • Business Taxes

Tax Planning • Quickbooks & Peachtree Assistance

Sara Sauer C.P.A., LLC14115 Lincoln Street, Suite 400

Ham Lake, MN 55304

763-413-3390www.Sauer-CPA.com

new AddreSS!

High tech traction control

As winter sets in and the roads get slippery, you may notice your traction control activating on a slippery surface. So what is traction control and how does it work?

Traction control is a system that utilizes the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to monitor wheel slip. Some vehicles have a switch that allows the driver to turn the system off or on. Obviously, the system needs to be on to be active. There is a wheel speed sensor in each wheel that measures not only the actual wheel speed, but the rate of acceleration and rate of deceleration.

When stopping, if the system senses that one or more wheels are slowing down too quickly or are about to stop turning, causing a skid, the ABS system goes into action and will actually un-apply hydraulic pressure to one or more of the wheels to avoid a skid. The goal is to maintain

control when stopping and to stop as quickly as possible. If the tire skids, the driver will loose steering ability and ultimately loose control of the vehicle.

Years ago we used to say to pump the brakes on slippery roads; now with ABS, the ABS computer pumps the brakes for us, exactly when they need to be pumped. They can “pump” the brakes about 10 times per second. So now the rule is to just apply the brakes and let the ABS system do its job.

If there is a problem with the ABS system, a yellow ABS light should illuminate on the dashboard and the system will be disabled. You still have the regular old brake system except for the anti-lock part. That is a brief review of the ABS system.

The traction control system uses the same sensors to monitor wheel slip again. This system monitors if the driver is accelerating and at what rate you are trying to accelerate. It senses if a wheel starts to spin,

the system will actually apply that particular brake to slow or even stop that spinning tire which in turn causes the transaxle (transmission) to transfer power to the other wheel to get you going.

You may experience a shudder sensation and perhaps a traction light or a light reading “slippery road” may illuminate on the dash. This also will inform the driver that the road indeed is slippery and to be cautious. Obviously, if all the tires are on glare ice the system can only do its best, but in many cases the system will get you going or keep you going.

This also leads into some of the new vehicles with stability

control systems. They have added a number of sensors to measure latitudinal and longitudinal rate change. If the vehicle swerves out of control, the system senses this and can apply or unapply a brake to stabilize the vehicle so the driver can maintain control. Some of the new systems also incorporate multiple cameras and a sonar type technology to warn or help a driver to stay in their own lane and to anticipate an impending front end collision.

These systems are very complex and could not be possible without onboard computers and sensors. There are warning lights to aid the driver if a system fault would

occur. This would require a skilled technician and the proper tools and computer scanners to identify and repair the system. Much like if a “check engine” light would come on, the system would set a diagnostic trouble code and save a set of data for the technician to retrieve and to use in the diagnostic procedure to get the system going again. If a fault would occur, a light normally is illuminated. If the light is on, the particular system will be disabled until repairs are made.

Technology is amazing; however, it can be costly if a problem arises.

I hate when that happens.

sUE sTEWArDvice-PreSident granny’S chriStmaS cloSet

Granny’s Christmas Closet is a non-profit, volunteer organization that helps senior citizens throughout Anoka County. A warehouse located in Anoka is available to social workers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Currently, the organization is collecting items for its box program that runs from Thanksgiving through the end of December. Items that are donated through the box program stock the warehouse for the year. Typical items donated include: new clothing, sheets, blankets and throws, towels and washcloths, household items and toiletries.

Gift cards or monetary donations are also accepted. New locations to participate in collecting donated items through the box program are also sought.

Another program is the “Angels” Christmas program. Nursing homes and ACCAP provide specific requests from those most in need or those who have no family. Granny’s Christmas Closet then finds angel volunteers to adopt a senior and fill that specific request. Between 400

and 500 requests will be filled this year.Volunteers to help in the warehouse,

especially after the first of the year, to sort through the collected items, are always welcome.

Granny’s Christmas Closet local donation sites:} Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard

Andover} East Bethel Senior’s Center, 2241 221st Avenue

East Bethel} Nowthen City Hall, 8188 199th Avenue

Nowthen} Oak Grove City Hall, 19900 Nightingale Street

Oak Grove} St. Francis City Hall, 23340 Cree Street

St. Francis} Anytime Fitness, 23212 St. Francis Boulevard

Suite #900, St. FrancisFor more information about Granny’s

Christmas Closet, contact Vice President Sue Steward at 612-481-2277 or [email protected]. Monetary donations can be mailed to: Granny’s Christmas Closet, PO Box 444, Anoka, MN 55303.

Granny’s Christmas Closet organization helps Anoka County seniors in need

Senior Sonja Homan, freshman Cassidy Day and eighth grader Justine Schake. The team had a great year with many school records being broken or tied. Records that were broken included number of goals scored in a season, broken by Makenna Sullivan with 25 goals. The previous records were 18 goals held by Emily Peterson in 1996 and Alaina Kne in 2010. Most career goals, broken by Makenna Sullivan in 2009-13 with 45 goals. The previous record was held by Alaina Kne in 2006-10 with 44 goals. The record for most shutouts by an individual in a season was broken by Jordan Maas with 8. The previous record was 7 held by Laura Sanden in 1998. The record that was tied was most games won in a season at 12, which is tied with the 1996 season.

Great job to all the varsity girls for a memorable season.

The Saints will graduate seven seniors this year. We wish them all the best of luck in the future.2012 boys recap

The boys varsity soccer team completed the season with an on overall record of 4-10-1. Their conference record was 4-6-0 which put them in 6th place for the season. The team was led offensively by juniors Blake McReavy, Philip Kauffmann and Anthony Cole. They were held together defensively by seniors Nick Anderson, Micah Sawatsky and Griffin Dunn. Great job to all the varsity boys for a memorable season.

The Saints will graduate six seniors this year. We wish them all the best of luck in the future.

Sports & Outdoors

For all your Automotive Repairs & Maintenance

21388 Johnson Street NE, 1 block W of Hwy. 65 & Sims Road in East BethelMonday-Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 763-413-3445


wantedAttention hunters–

send in your game photo by December 31 and see it in the January 2013 issue

of The Courier.Send the original, unedited photo (at least

200 dpi) and write a caption of no more than 75 words explaining who, what, when and where.

Email information to [email protected] or call 763-753-7031 if you have questions.

Mail to:The Courier4115 Ambassador Blvd. NWSt. Francis, MN 55070-9368

Melissa VojtaSaintS for Soccer booSter club

St. Francis High School soccer teams held their year-end banquet on November 5 at Spectacular Events in Isanti. Congratulations to all of the players that participated this season with another great year. Many individual awards were given out during the course of the night to players on all the teams.

Saints for Soccer members donated more than 330 pounds of food and personal products to NACE, an emergency food shelf in Anoka County. Thank you to all players and families for participating and giving back to those in need.Awards given to girls:

All-Conference to seniors Monica Pelkey and Sonja Homan and junior Makenna Sullivan; All-Conference honorable mention to sophomore Jordyn Maas, freshmen Sammie Zgutowicz and Cassidy Day. Other awards presented were Most Valuable Player to junior Makenna Sullivan, Most Leadership to senior Monica Pelkey; Hardest Worker to senior Sonja Homan. Many

of our graduating seniors also received an Academic All-Conference award for maintaining a grade point of average of 3.4 or higher. They are Sonja Homan, Jenny Kost, Jamie Rykhus, Monica Pelkey, and McKenzie Nelson. Congratulations to all the varsity girls and they awards the received.

Captains for the 2013 girls soccer season were announced as Makenna Sullivan, Jordyn Maas and Natasha Benson.

Junior Varsity – Most Valuable Player, Asia Kolb. Most Improved Player Savannah Berger. Most Dedicated Player Alysha Johnson. Congratulations to all the girls on their awards and to the team for a great season.

B-Squad – Most Leadership, Maddie Dreshar. Most Improved Player Sarah Lemke. Team Spirit Megan Grandstrand. Congratulations to all the girls and their awards and to the team for a great season.

C-Squad – Most Improved Player Rachel Kauffman. Best Team Spirit Katelyn Gehling. Most Hustle Elsie Johnson. Congratulations to all the girls on their awards and to the

team for a great season.awards given to boys:

All Conference to senior Nick Anderson, junior Blake McReavy, junior Hugo Olson, junior Philip Kauffman; All Conference honorable mention to junior Anthony Cole. Individual awards were also given. Most Valuable Player went to junior Blake McReavy; Most Dedicated to senior Micah Sawatsky; Fighting Saint to senior Nick Anderson; Most Improved to junior Judd Bruner. Many of the graduating seniors also received Academic All Conference Awards for maintaining a grade point average of 3.4 or higher. They are Nick Anderson, Dan Sievert and Mason Oberleitner. Congratulations to all the varsity boys and the awards they received.

Captains for the 2013 boys’ soccer season were announced as Blake McReavy, Hugo Olson and Philip Kauffmann.2012 girls recap

The girls varsity soccer team completed the season with an overall record of 12-6-0. Their conference record was 7-3-0 which put them in 4th place for the season. The

team was led offensively by Junior Makenna Sullivan with 33 points, 25 goals and 8 assists, freshman Sammie Zgutowicz with 17 points, 10 goals and 7 assists, senior Monica Pelkey with 10 points, 5 goals and 5 assists. The team was held together in defense by

st. Francis High school soccer wraps up season with banquet and awards

st. Francis High school girls varsity soccer team ended their season with a record of 12-6-0. Submitted PhotoS

st. Francis High school boys varsity soccer team ended their season with a record of 4-10-1.


St. Francis Fastpitch Association 2013

RegistRationFor ages 8-18

When: Tuesday, January 8, 2013Where: St. Francis High School

Multi-Purpose RoomTime: 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Uniforms will be available for sizing and equipment available for sale.

Open gyms and pitching clinics will be starting on January 6 at St. Francis Middle School. More details available at our website www.sffastpitch.org.

Coaches applications due by December 31.

NatioNwide parts locatiNg!

St. FranciS auto PartS763-753-4698

4140 st. Francis Blvd., just south of town on Hwy. 47Family Run Business Open 6 Days A Week

Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. • Saturday 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Bonus for cars ’04 or newer!

Paying $250 for most junkers

Volleyball coacHing staFFSt. franciS high School

Dedication and teamwork came together for the St. Francis High School varsity volleyball team finishing their season with an overall record of 21-9, second overall in the North Suburban Conference. The team was also named North Suburban Conference academic team champions. In addition,

the team was awarded the Minnesota High School League gold standard for Section 7AAA by achieving a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher. Capping one of the most successful seasons in years, the Saints fell one match short of participating in the state championship tournament as a result of a hard fought, 5-game loss at the Section 7AAA championships. We are very proud of our players who showed tremendous growth throughout the season and worked hard as a team to be successful.

Congratulations to senior Maggie Ewen for being named All-State Honorable Mention

for the second straight year and also being selected to play on the MVBCA All-Star 2013 volleyball team. Congratulations are also in order for seniors Angie Roberts and Maggie Ewen, and junior Caitlin Luby for being named to the NSC All-Conference team. Senior Christa Norrgard and junior Ashley Wells were also awarded positions on the All-Conference honorable mention

team. Special congratulations to Kristi Ewen for being named Section 7AAA assistant coach of the year.

Congratulations to all. Following are those who earned awards:Varsity team awardsSpirit Award: Makenzie Belisle; Best Defense: Caitlin Luby; Best Offense: Maggie Ewen & Angie Roberts; Most Improved: Rachel Ulrich; Most Valuable Player: Maggie Ewen; NSC Academic All Conference: Maggie Ewen, Christa Norrgard, Angie Roberts; NSC All Conference: Maggie Ewen, Angie Roberts, Caitlin Luby; All Conference

Morgan Hall & KiMberly Dilauro rieFSfhS hockey team manager & SfhS Public relationS coordinator

The St. Francis High School boys hockey team has been preparing for their season opener on November 29. Coach Tyler Schaff, in his third year as head coach, states, “We have a great group of coaches and athletes.” The team treats all games equally, but the players are looking forward to Section 7AA playoff games. Benilde-St. Margaret’s and Grand Rapids are just a few of the teams they will face this year on their busy season with over 20 games. The team is strong with nine seniors and a great coaching staff including head coach Tyler Schaff and assistant coaches Andy Lahoud, Bradley Marlowe and Jason Lindberg. Team managers Morgan Hall, Christa Norgard, Henry Herrera, Brittany Coop and Lucas Fuller are an important aspect of the team.

High school cross country season comes to a closebecKi HansonSfhS head coach

Throughout the fall season, the St. Francis High School cross country teams achieved many successes. At the North Suburban Conference meet in October, hosted by The Ponds Golf Course, the boys varsity team finished in fourth place which was an improvement from their seventh place finish last year. The girls varsity finished in sixth place. Individual honors earned: Seniors Aaron Jacques (6th) and Reed Harmon (15th) received All-Conference while junior Grant Olsen (19th) received All-Conference Honorable Mention. Sophomore Emma Eastman (13th) earned All-Conference and senior Dakotah Bullen (18th) received All-Conference Honorable Mention. The boys team earned the Academic Conference Team championship for the fourth consecutive year with a team grade point average of 3.93.

The section 7AA meet was held at the Princeton Golf Course. The top two teams and top eight individuals not on a qualifying team advanced to the state meet at St. Olaf. The new qualifying rule means that individuals are never certain if they qualify for state until the final results are posted. That was the case for Olsen who finished in 14th place with the top 11 places qualifying for state. Olsen ran a tough race and set a personal best at the meet, but just missed qualifying for state. As a team, the boys varsity finished in eighth place, improving from their 11th place finish last season. The girls were lead by Eastman and the team finished in 11th place overall.

The season concluded at the team banquet where a number of awards were given. Team MVPs for 2012 were awarded to Olsen and Bullen. Most improved high school runner award went to sophomore Grant Sparstad and Eastman. St. Francis Middle School most improved went to eighth grader Sarah Willner. Eighth grader Conor Sullivan received Rookie of the Year and the Bergley Awards for positive attitude went to Ajay Breen and Rachel Puff.

A special thank you to the Ponds Golf Course in St. Francis for allowing the SFHS cross country meets to take place on their course and to the athletes and parents for a great season!

Pictured are the seniors of the 2012-13 st. Francis High school hockey team: (back, L-R) Manager christa norgard, stephen Vincent, aaron Folk, tate blankenship, cameron Kaehler, Zach Foesch, ryan Mohar, Manager Morgan Hall (front) justin nielsen, brett aldrich, jimmy Mayer. Photo by morgan hall

Honorable Mention: Christa Norrgard, Ashley Wells; Academic All State: Maggie Ewen; AAA All State Honorable Mention: Maggie Ewen; 1000 Career Set Assists: Angie Roberts; 1000 Career Digs: Maggie EwenjV team awardsSpirit Award: Jackie Karpe; Most Improved: Amanda Anderson; Most Valuable: Kaitlyn Lemkeb-squad awardsSpirit Award: Christina Nelson; Most Improved: Rachel Owens; Most Valuable: Marlys Pilarski9a team awardsSpirit Award: Sarah Antinozzi;

Most Improved: Ashley Partyka; Most Valuable: Danielle Menge9b team awardsSpirit Award: Chloe Jensen; Most Improved: Samantha Helmerick; Most Valuable: Hannah McCann

Thank you so very much for a tremendous season. Our seniors will be greatly missed and we wish the best for them!Volleyball coaching staffVarsity Head Coach Tracey Norton; Varsity Assistant Coach and JV Coach Kristi Ewen; B-Squad Coach Diane Hazelton; 9A Team & 9B Team Coaches Jen Hallfielder & Bri Blowers

High school volleyball season wrap up

Boys hockey season underway

the st. Francis High school varsity volleyball team finished their season with a record of 21-9. Submitted Photo


More details, register online at northmetrosoccer.org Volunteering for positive youth development through soccer.

North Metro Soccer Association RecReational PRogRam SPRing/SummeR 2013Registration Begins January 7Traditional Recreational Program$90 Includes Uniform (ages as of 8/1/2012)

Monday/Wednesday ages 4 & 5 (U6 co-ed) ages 8 & 9 (U10 girls) ages 10 & 11 (U12 girls)

Tuesday/Thursday ages 6 & 7 (U8 boys and girls) ages 8 & 9 (U10 boys) ages 10 & 11 (U12 boys) ages 12-17 (U13-U18 co-ed)

The Recreational Program will stress basic soccer fundamentals. Practices will be held on one night and games on the other. Each team consists of one or two volunteer coaches and 10-14 players. Fields are located in Andover and Oak Grove and teams will be organized into north and south divisions.The season begins April 22 and ends on June 29 with the Jamboree.

Comp Prep Program$110 Includes Uniform

Monday/WednesdayAges 7 & 8 (U8 boys and girls)The Comp Prep Program is devised for Rec players that have some experience playing U8 Rec soccer and already exhibit strong soccer skills. It is also for players who want an increased level of training and more playing time in the Spring/Summer and who anticipate playing Competitive Soccer the following year. There will be minimal additional fees (less than $50 for the season) to participate in up to four weekend Jamborees.See website for details.

Co-CoachesPlease consider volunteering as a co-coach. You will be making a big difference for youth and your child by volunteering with NMSA. Coaches will have the assistance of a NMSA sponsored trainer who will visit practices and games throughout the season. Please check the volunteer box to coach when you register your player. Thank you for making a difference.

Online RegisTRaTiOn PRefeRRedWalk-in Registration & Questions answeredsaturday, february 9 9:00-11:00 a.m. Adrenaline Sports Center 11521 Eagle Street NW Coon Rapids, 55448

Mail-in Registration (Online preferred)North Metro Soccer Assoc. PO Box 250 Cedar, MN 55011-0250

Registration forms are available at all city halls in the area. The registration fee will increase by $35 beginning March 1. Registration closes March 15.

by toM larsonoutdoor Writer

While the fall has been uncommonly warm, the duck hunting had been fair up the Mississippi River from Lake Winniebigoshish. We have been fortunate enough to be able to hunt out of a 95-year-old duck camp called the Mississippi Hilton. The camp, located on the west side of Winnie, barely a mile up the river, has been the home for several generations of duck hunters, all hailing from the Hibbing/Virginia area.

Established in 1917, the camp and cabin has had a number of updates since the original seven owners banded together over a love of ducks. Reading the cabin log, one begins to clearly understand that Minnesota, at one time, was a huge staging area for migratory bluebills, ring bills, whistlers, red heads and canvasbacks, not to mention the mallards who preferred the upriver back waters. The log oftentimes talked of 800 ducks taken in a season. In conversation with the old timers, the large limits of those days allowed the hard working miners and loggers to keep their bellies full for the winter, along with a fair number of deer, bear and moose. The modern day Mississippi Hilton, has several generations from the original members and several of a new generation of duck hunting fanatics.

While it was warm most of October, for several days at the end of October, the weather turned ducky. That included several days of a hard freeze and a good snowstorm that brought four inches of the white stuff on October 26, 27 and a slug of new birds looking for a rest and some food. The snow and chilly breeze also harkened the first of the northern flight of divers and mallards being pushed out of Canada and riding the snowy wave.

Setting up two sets of 11 decoys with a hole in the middle in a favorite upriver

hole called Chitche’s Corner, we were buzzed from the get-go as we set up the boat blinds. Two boats, nose-to-nose, and five hunters provided a pretty effective volley for unsuspecting bills, mallards and whistlers. The nasty weather was a big help and we were rewarded first with a flock of ring bills that liked our spread, took a hard turn into the wind and put the landing gear down. As they swung hard, our 12-gauges blazed away and when it was all said and done, four were in the water. This became the order of the afternoon with the perfect wind, weather and

decoy spread.We had several flocks of

scissor bills (fish ducks) decoy nicely, but let them swing through as they are not the best eating. To our delight, we were able to whistle in a fair number of doubles of golden eyes, buffleheads and even some late season teal that added to our bag limit for the day.

The following day, braving sinking temperatures and a four-inch coating of snow, we were able to work some northern mallards that appeared to not be too skiddish probably from a lack of pressure in Canada. Working the mallards with beckoning call and a later chuckle for feeding, several groups swung through the decoys with their orange feet hanging and their yellow bills clearly quacking. Standing up as they approached from left to right, several mallards dropped into the decoys as the guns barked out with two shot three’s. Picking up our bounty in late morning, the curly tails were a telltale sign they had come a long way from the reaches of Canada.

The Mississippi Hilton

beckoned us back that last cold morning for some hot coffee, toast and leftovers from the night before. The camp has survived nine decades and the ducks still seem to make their way through this area, albeit not in the numbers that were seen by our forefathers. Our only hope for the duck hunting of the future is to be forever vigilant about our waterways, nesting areas and contributions to great organizations like Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl, and Minnesota Duck Hunters Association.

Happy hunting...Be safe!

Bluebills ride in on the snow of late October

late fall snow brought the mallards and bluebills through the lake Winniebigoshish area on the up-river side of the Mississippi river. outdoor enthusiast tom larson took the opportunity to stock his freezer with ducks.

Submitted by tom larSon


East BEthEl sEnior EvEnts

Senior DanceHave fun dancing with us! Dances are 1:00-4:00 p.m. Old time

music will be played by Dick Szyplinski on Friday, December 7. The cost is $5 and includes lunch. There are no dances on December 31 or January 1.Pancake Breakfast

All are welcome to the East Bethel Seniors Pancake Breakfast on December 9, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Serving pancakes, French toast, sausage, juice, coffee, and scrambled eggs, additional 50¢ per egg. Cost for breakfast is $5 for adults and $2 for children under 10.

Events are held at the East Bethel Senior Center located one mile east of Highway 65 on 221st Avenue in East Bethel.

Life Fitness Matters MeliSSa enzler St. FranciS anytime FitneSS, Owner

QuestionMy wife thinks she’ll get big and bulky if she starts lifting

weights with me. How do I convince her otherwise?answer

This comes up all the time, and it’s one of the biggest myths out there. First of all, women typically don’t have the proper hormonal balance to put on large amounts of muscle tissue. Secondly, even if they did have the right physiology, it would take some serious training to do it.

Getting bigger muscles requires high-volume workouts (lots of sets and reps) and a pretty high intensity as well. Picking up a few weights here and there isn’t a recipe for building mass—it’s what you do and how you do it that really makes the difference. Remind your wife that weight training programs can always be tailored to specific goals, so if she doesn’t want to put on large amounts of muscle, that’s just fine.

Generally speaking, a full-body circuit with higher rep ranges a few days per week would work well if she’s just looking to tone up or maintain her current level of muscle tissue. It is important to have a variety of equipment to change your workout to get desired results—it won’t be just lifting weights.

Remember men and women have to strength train for a balanced body and for bone density numbers to remain in a healthy range. With strength training bone density numbers can be reversed. If your wife wants to get an individualized program based on her goals, look for a qualified personal trainer in your area.

Choose to be healthy.

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People with mental illnesses need to work with their primary care physician and other health care providers to make sure they aren’t part of an alarming statistic that says people with mental illnesses die 25 years earlier.

That was the message repeated by numerous presenters in a day-long symposium, called Integrating Physical Health and Mental Wellness, held in early November at Lord of Life Church in Ramsey, for professionals in social work, psychology, counseling, and health care, as well as service consumers.

Keynote speaker Dr. Anil Sipahimalani explained that medicine is a three-legged stool with medicines, surgery and procedures, and mind-body interactions.

“Since 60 to 90 percent of doctor visits are for conditions related to stress, the mind/body or self-care approach is a vital component of effective health care,” Sipahimalani said. “Compared to the general population, people with serious mental illness on average lose 25 years of normal life span; even more if substance abuse is involved,” he said.

He backed up his point with statistics for people with mental illnesses. Rates of health risks, including smoking, obesity and physical inactivity, are two to

three times that of the general population.

Rates of heart disease and diabetes are two to six times that of the general population. Other factors that make medical illness more prevalent in psychiatric patients include decreased medication compliance and lack of follow through on doctor’s recommendations.

Everyone may be impacted by the connection between depression and diabetes. That’s because severe depression almost doubles health care costs in diabetic patients and is associated with a higher rate of diabetic complications, Sipahimalani said.

Sipahimalani told the 175 professionals attending that they could help educate consumers on the importance of being aware of their risk factors, such as body mass index, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, smoking history, and alcohol

Symposium focuses on integrating physical, mental health to lengthen lifespan

overuse or illegal drug use. Professionals can coordinate care with primary care physicians regarding any chronic disease. Better nutrition is key.

“What’s good for your heart is good for your brain,” he said, referencing omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins.

Exercise, sleep and social connectivity are important, too, he added.

Another presenter, Jerry Storck with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, explained the 10 x 10 initiative. The goal is to reduce the mortality average by 10 years over the next 10 years.

Currently, the median age of death for people with persistent mental illness is 55.

Community program presenters represented Ramsey County, Central Minnesota Mental Health Center, Spectrum Mental Health, Vail Place, Community Options and Touch Stone Mental Health. Common themes included measuring progress on lifestyle changes and building a care plan centered on the individual for best success.

Years ago, cigarettes were dispensed as rewards for good behavior and some people with mental illnesses were isolated to stay out of trouble, said Tracy Hinz, LICSW, Central Minnesota Mental Health Center.

“We owe it to our clients to shift gears,” Hinz said. Today’s focus is on empowering people to make better choices, she added.

Anoka County Commissioner Rhonda Sivarajah commended the participants for learning more about integrating and coordinating services.

“There’s power in integrated care to help people with mental health and substance use disorders achieve optimal health, happiness, recovery, and a full and satisfying life,” Sivarajah said.

The symposium was hosted by the Anoka County Mental Health/Chemical Health Director’s Network. This was the third symposium in the last few years under the heading of “Integrating Care, Transforming Lives.”

Dr. anil Sipahimalani spoke to profession-als in the fields of mental, chemical and physical health, telling them they can help consumers by coordinating care with each other. SubmitteD PHOtO

Two shrub recommendations for great color for three seasonsI simply need to show and tell via this article

and accompanying pictures, two fabulous shrubs that have terrific color in spring, summer and especially fall.

My number one favorite shrub is the Royal Purple Smoke Bush, also known as smoke tree, or by its scientific name, Cotinus Coggygria. It is a deciduous, broadleaf shrub Zone 5-8 shrub—although I have had it in my Zone 3B garden for nine plus years. It is located in a fairly sheltered area. This shrub is a great garden specimen due to the wispy pinkish purple plumes which give the appearance of a cloud of smoke in the spring and summer. It is drought tolerant. Gardeners also value Royal Purple Smoke Bush for its showy, deep purple foliage that turns reddish or reddish-purple in fall.

My second favorite shrub is the Spirea Mellow Yellow or Spireae Thunbergii Orgon. To be honest, I bought two of these plants when it was on a final clearance. It turned out to be a beauty. The shrub’s size is four to five feet wide and tall and, once established, drought resistant. One shrub was getting about eight hours of sun a day and the other only a couple of hours of sun. What did I find out? This plant needs eight hours of sun to thrive and be showy, very showy. Of the many, many shrubs and perennial flowers I have, this shrub is the first one to leaf out in the spring to a beautiful chartreuse color and the first shrub to flower. The flowers are small, delicate, and white. And then, in the fall the leaves turn a beautiful orange/bronze color.

Autumn is actually my favorite season for these two shrubs. When the rest of the garden has turned to various shades of brown, these two beauties are true eye candy. It’s such a plus when you can get three long seasons of beauty out of a single plant.

For more gardening information, visit the University of Minnesota

Extension website at www.extension.umn.edu or call the Isanti County Master Gardeners at 763-689-1810. Visit us on Facebook at Isanti County Master Gardeners.


Dr. Paul Schaus, D.D.S.Keep your smile healthy and beautiful with

regular visits to the dentist. We provide comprehensive dental care

for the whole family.

In the

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Specializing in Sports, Industrial and Auto Accident Injuries

“We treat your pets like our own”

St. Francis Veterinary Clinic763-444-9359

Doctors on staff Dr. Tracey Thomas Dr. Jill Hergenrader Dr. Kelly Pawlenty Dr. Nicole Perreault

Two miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47Visit us on the web at www.sfvetclinic.com

•Smallanimalmedicine,surgeryanddentistry•Freeinitialpuppyandkittenexams•Earlymorningdropoffavailablebyappointment•Eveningappointments•HeartwormandLymetesting•MicrochippetID

$2 off per night with a 2 night stay

at Gold Star KennelsNot valid during holiday periods. Limit one per family. Not good with any other offers or discounts. • 763-753-5450 • Expires 1/8/13

$5 off grooming at Gold Star Kennels

Add ons, matt charges, etc., still apply, ask for details. Limit one per family. Not good

with any other offers or discounts. 763-753-5450 • Expires 1/8/13

$50 off training

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Back pain warning signs

With this extended warm fall we are finding it’s easy to add one or two more projects to our list. How many times have you lifted a heavy box or twisted your body too quickly only to feel a twinge that you would usually ignore initially and probably feel it the next day? You say to yourself, “This will work itself out in a few days.” A week later you still have that nagging pain but you take a few over-the-counter pain relievers and head back outside to continue with the project that started it all. Now, after your pain has been going on for two weeks, you decide it’s time to seek additional help. You make

an appointment to see your primary physician and he might prescribe something that will help mask the pain but offer no real solution.

Here are some tips to help avoid the vicious cycle that can develop when you are not proactive with an injury. First, there is pain. Yes, the pain that you are feeling is the

injured tissue in response to an injury whether it is a minor one or something more severe. The tissue may be inflamed, another sign that it is injured. Injured tissue that is inflamed will produce heat. If the injury is more superficial you may even notice a reddened area at the skin surface as well as the skin feeling warm. Another visible sign may be swelling. You can compare the injured area to the other side of your body and notice the area is swollen. Finally what you can experience is a loss of function. This is usually the point where we decide to seek further intervention.

Recognizing these signs could help prevent you from getting to that final stage and having to seek further medical attention. Stretching before any activity can help. We forget about this, thinking our project will be a fairly easy task. When you feel pain, take FiLe PHOtO

Master GardenerCarol Bray iSanti cOunty maSter garDener

Carol Bray’s shrubs burst with color in the fall a Mellow yellow Spirea in foreground, a Wine & roses Weigela in the center and a royal Purple smoke bush in background. PHOtO by carOL bray

a break and assess the pain. Have a family member take a closer look at the area to see signs of swelling or warmth. The injured area should be rested immediately and ice can be placed on the area as well as taking an over-the-counter

anti-inflammatory to help decrease the inflammation. If taking these steps does not resolve the problem, then seek further intervention from your primary physician or physical therapist to guide you down the right path to recovery.

ISD 15 SCHOOL BOarD MeetIng: December 10 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. at Central Services Center, Community Room, 4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St. Francis.

LIOnS CLuB—St. FranCIS meets three times during the month at the St. Francis American Legion. First Wed. board meeting; second Wed. regular business meeting; fourth Wed. social & program. All meetings start at 7:00 p.m. and adjourn at 8:15 p.m. Call Lion Kevin Schuldt for more information at 763-753-1205 or visit www.stfrancismn.lionwap.org

LIOneSS CLuB — St. FranCIS meets monthly. First Wed., administrative board, and third Wed., general membership meeting at 7:00 p.m. Meetings are held at St. Francis City Hall, 23340 Cree Street. For more information, call Jean Schuldt at 763-753-1205 or Illa Torgerson at 763-753-2002.

CeDar/ eaSt BetHeL LIOneSS CLuB meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at Ham Lake VFW. Call Marilyn at 763-434-6599 for more information.

CeDar/eaSt BetHeL LIOnS CLuB meets bimonthly, first and third Tues., 7:00 p.m., at the Ham Lake VFW. Call Greg Ricki at 763-434-7893.

Oak grOve LIOnS meet every second and fourth Tues. of each month at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call Lion Tim Newell at 763-753-4492 after 6:30 p.m.

nOWtHen LIOnS CLuB Are you looking to serve in your community of Nowthen? Meet new friends? Have a lot of fun? Come join the Nowthen Lions Club! The Nowthen Lions meet on the first Thursday of the month for the Board Meeting and on the third Thursday of the month for the Membership Meeting. Please call Patty Wirz at 763-241-1341 or email at [email protected].

aa MeetS at Long Lake Lutheran Church, 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy. 47, Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m.

St. FranCIS area CHaMBer OF COMMerCe Breakfast with the Chamber is Wednesday, December 12 at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in St. Francis, 8:00-9:00 a.m., $3 for breakfast. A brief monthly board meeting will follow breakfast. Visit www.stfrancischamber.org for more information or call 763-438-5163.

aMerICan LegIOn POSt 622 – St. FranCIS General membership meets monthly the second Thurs. at 7:00 p.m. All members of the post are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.

aMerICan LegIOn auxILIary unIt 622 – St. FranCIS General membership meets monthly on the third Thurs. of the month at 7:00 p.m. All members of the auxiliary are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.

St. FranCIS SenIOrS If you are 55 or older, come join us for some fun at the St. Francis American Legion. We meet on the first & third Thurs. of each month, from noon to 3:00 p.m. For more information, call President Ray Steinke at 763-753-1871.

Oak grOve SenIOrS meet the second and fourth Wed. of the month at noon for potluck and a short business meeting. BINGO follows each business meeting. For information about the club and events, call Marion Schulz at 763-444-5652.

eaSt BetHeL SenIOrS meet third Thurs. of the month at 2241 221st Avenue NE in East Bethel for business meeting and noon lunch; second Wed. of each month is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon w/potluck at noon; fourth Wed. is crafts 9:00 a.m.-noon; Pancake Breakfast is held second Sun. of each month, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Dance the first Fri. of every month, 1:00-4:00 p.m.; each Thurs. is 500 Cards 1:00-4:00 p.m.; Cribbage held once a month; call for date/time 763-434-6179. The East Bethel Senior Center is available for rent, call Barb 763-434-6179. All seniors are welcome to join for only $7 per year.

tOPS CHaPter Mn #1774 meets every Wed. morning at 9:30 a.m. at the St. Francis Community Center, 23340 Cree Street N. TOPS stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly and is a weight loss support group. Check us out on Wed. mornings or visit www.tops.org.

St. FranCIS area WOMen OF tODay meet the first Tuesday of the month at the Anoka Hennepin Credit Union, 23280 St. Francis Blvd. NW in St. Francis. Social time is 6:30 p.m. with the meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Women of Today, visit us at www.sfawt.org or call Dana at 763-753-5010.

BnI – reFerraLS unLIMIteD meets every Tuesday, 7:30 a.m., at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 19001 Jackson Street NE, East Bethel. For more information, check www.bni-mn.com.


What’s your New Year’s resolution?

If it’s cleaning out unwanted items—let us help.

Place a Classified Ad with us and the first 10 words are FREE!

Deadline for January 2013 classified ads is December 21.

A classified form is available online at www.the-courier.org or at The Courier office, 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis 55070.

Call 763-753-7031 for more information.

Issue DeaDlIne DelIvery By

2013

January 12/14/12 1/13/13

February 1/18/13 2/10/13

March 2/15/13 3/10/13

April 3/15/13 4/7/13

May 4/12/13 5/5/13

June 5/17/13 6/9/13

July 6/14/13 7/7/13

August 7/17/13 8/11/13

September 8/16/13 9/8/13

October 9/13/13 10/6/13

November 10/18/13 11/10/13

December 11/15/13 12/8/13

Classified By MailThe Courier

4115 ambassador blvd. nw St. Francis, mn 55070

Onlinewww.the-courier.org

24-hours-a-day

By PhOne763-753-7031

monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

in PersOn4115 ambassador Blvd. nW

monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

ChildCareIn-Home LIcensed daycare has opening for ages 6 wks-11 years old. 1/2 off first week with enrollment. Fun and loving environment. cPr/first aid certified. Food program. Please call Lisa; 763-458-1948.

st. FrancIs LIcensed daycare has openings, reasonable rates, christina 763-258-7282.

KIds country cHILdcare center in St. Francis enrolling. call 763-753-5010 for more information.

FitnessKettLebeLL, yoga-FIt, riPPeD, personal fitness training and mature adult classes. call 763-267-2198 or visit our website at www.ascensionbodyworks.com.

For rent

Ham LaKe $300 furnished room, requirements. Pictures on craigslist, 763-434-6571.

For salesIx new aLpacas for sale at rum river alpacas, call 763-753-0357.

20% oF sILpada JeweLry sales donated to north anoka county Foodshelf, www.mysilpada.com/kristin.genser, 763-441-9197.

serviCes mr. FIxIt—Light home repair, painting, clean-up. if it’s broke or needs repair, call tom at 612-490-1010.

pIano Lessons—casual, fun, licensed/experienced, competitive rates. carmel 612-220-0235.

Handyman servIces—Plumbing, electrical, masonry, remodeling. call butch at 763-300-9869.

pIano tunIng—violin, piano, and guitar lessons, michael, 763-219-4883, [email protected].

Insurance—get a free insurance quote today, 612-849-5028, www.rumriverinsurance.net.

reaL estate—need help buying or selling your home call today 612-849-4489.

employment

are you a stay-at-home parent who would like to earn some extra income while your children attend school? iSD 15 Lifelong Learning center is in need of “on-call” substitutes to work in Preschool, early childhood Family education, and early childhood Special education. if you would enjoy working alongside preschoolers as they learn and grow, please visit www.isd15.org and complete an application for the corresponding substitute posting. Licensure is required for some positions, but not all of them.

council & township MeetinGs

andover City Councilmeets 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m.

1685 Crosstown blvd. NwAndover, MN • 763-755-5100

Bethel City Councilmeets 1st & 3rd Thursday 7:00 p.m.23820 Dewey Street • P.O. Box 64

Bethel, MN • 763-434-4366

nowthen City Councilmeets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m.

19800 Nowthen blvd. NwAnoka, MN • 763-441-1347

east Bethel City Councilmeets 1st & 3rd wednesday

7:30 p.m.2241 • 221st Ave. NE

East Bethel, MN • 763-367-7840

oak Grove City Councilmeets 2nd monday 7:00 p.m. &

last monday 7:00 p.m.19900 Nightingale St. Nw

Oak Grove, MN • 763-404-7000

St. Francis City Councilmeets 1st & 3rd monday 6:00 p.m.

iSD 15 Central Services CenterSt. Francis, MN • 763-753-2630

Stanford Town Boardmeets 1st monday 7:00 p.m.

Co. rd. 8 (261st Ave Nw)Isanti, MN • 763-444-6370

Meetings & eventsFirst 5 lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5.00each additional line . . . . . . . . . $1.50Payment is due when placing an ad.

Copy & Display ad Deadline

area MeetinGs & events

annie reagan albright was born on October 15, 2012. She weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces and was 19½ inches long. Proud parents are Joel and Megan Albright of Oak Grove. Annie is welcomed home by brother Brenden. Grandparents are Jim and Robin McAdams of Taylors, South

Carolina and Don and Grace Albright of Flint, Michigan.

Marshall thomas allen LaCasse was born on October 24, 2012 at St. John’s Hospital in Maplewood. Marshall weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parents are Brett and Alicia (Brown) LaCasse of White Bear Lake. Grandparents are Ray and Debbie Brown of East Bethel, Tom LaCasse of St. Croix Falls and Nancy and Brad Nelson of Forest Lake.

kahlan rayne apeland was born October 25, 2012, at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was 20¼ inches long. Proud parents are Brandon and Erin Apeland of St. Francis.

Macy evelyn Fish was born October 29, 2012, at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 6 pounds and was 18 inches long. Proud parents are Nathan and Christy Fish of Isanti. Macy is welcomed by sister Payton.

Morley grace Linton was born November 3, 2012, at Cambridge Medical Center. Morley weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20½ inches long. Proud parents are Kyle and Greta Linton of Cambridge. Morley is welcomed by sibling Channing, 22 months. Grandparents are Jim and Katie Lutterman of Cambridge, Sherri Compton of Key West, Florida, Lynn and Sandra Linton of New Auburn, Wisconsin and Verdell and Larry Schwab of Shell Lake, Wisconsin.

Wyatt Braiden Washburn was born November 12, 2012, at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and was 20½ inches long. Proud parents are Kinsey Swirtz and Shawn Washburn of Elk River.

Drake William thole was born November 14, 2012, at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 6 pounds, 5 ounces and was 19½ inches The Courier | DeCember 2012 | www.The-Courier.org 37

The Greater Minnesota

Deer & Motor Vehicle

Collision EventHow may we help you?

23615 Highway 47 in St. Francis

763-753-6116www.sfcollision.com

Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30 am-5:30 pm or by appt.

We work with ALL insurance companies and guarantee all repairs.

Full Service Auto Body Repairs & Paint

LIGHT MECHANICAL WORK

FrEE EsTiMaTEs!Free loaner car or

rental cars available!

Recycling is now easier with simple sort recycling. You no longer need to sort items. Just place them all in the large roll-off container provided by your hauler. If you have

any questions about what is acceptable or would like to start a new service, call your hauler:

Ace Solid Waste 763-427-3110 Allied Waste 763-784-2104East Central Sanitation 763-689-2171

2012 Goal 650 Tons

45 TonsRecycled in October

So far in 2012 St. Francis has recycled over 436 tons.

weddinG

Congratulations to David and anna Carpenter. Bruce and Sherry Herdina, along with Dean and annette Carpenter, joyfully announce the marriage of their children, anna and David. The ceremony took place September 22. SubmitteD

AskFido:

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

More personal care boarding perks:•$18perdayplusamultidogdiscount•Pick-up/drop-off365daysayear•24houron-sitecare•MaintainingFido’sroutineof pottyingoutside—we’renotinthebusinessofstartingbadhabits

•Freemedicationadministration

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

10% Off fOr new

GrOOMinG CustOMers!

Fido’s Barber Shop19847OrchidSt.NW,OakGrove

763-213-8143www.fidosbarber.com

All Breed Professional Dog Grooming and Personal

Care BoardingDay and Evening Appointments

annie reagan albright SubmitteD PHOtO

long. Proud parents are Joshua and Lea of St. Francis. Drake is welcomed by siblings Mason Thole and Joshua Jr. Thole.

Lukas allan Bradley Sannes was born November 18, 2012, at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces and was 21½ inches long. Proud parents are Candace Scholz and Jerrad Sannes of Isanti. Lukas is welcomed by siblings Gracie Sannes, 9, Ely Sannes, 6, Meadow Sannes, 4 and Willow Sannes, 2.

Births

Marshall Thomas allen laCasse SubmitteD PHOtO

RED CROSS BLOODMOBILETuesday, December 111:30-7:30 p.m.St. Patrick’s Catholic Church 19921 Nightingale Street, Oak GroveTo schedule an appointment, please call Caron at 612-282-5372 or Sue at 612-845-8459.Walk-ins are welcome after 2:00 p.m.There is a shortage of blood, all types of blood needed.


Wishing you good health and

happinessfrom the

City of East Bethel

Happy Holidays!

from the

City of St. Francis

Happy Holidays!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and we hope it brings you

much joy!

from the

City ofOak Grove

May your holiday season be bright!

from

in Nowthen

May the holidays be especially sacred and peaceful for you and yours this season. And may the

joy and contentment of the season remain throughout

the New Year.

Johnson Family Chiropractic in St. Francis

Embrace the Magic of Christmas!

Northland Screw Products, Inc.St. Francis

May your Holidays be

Beautiful and Bright

Oak Ridge Auto Body Inc.

East Bethel

Holiday Wishes from all of us at

Round Lake

DentaLin andover

from

We appreciate your generosity and kindness and look forward to serving you in 2013.

From St. Francis Bottle Shop

Merry Christmas!Valerie L. TempCertified Public Accountant St. Francis Area

from St. Francis Veterinary ClinicTemperature Specialists, Inc.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

from all of us at Tasty Pizza

in St. Francis!

May your holidays be

bright!

Ho, Ho, Holiday

GreetingsDelivering wishes merry and

bright to all of our friends and neighbors at Christmastime!

St. Francis


Buy one Lunch Buffet receive one

Lunch Buffet ½ OffExpires 1/8/13. One coupon per order.

Must purchase two Lunch Buffets. Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery.

Coupon good at Tasty Pizza in St. Francis.

Buy any large 2 or more item

pizza and get a FREE small (8") single item pizza

and a liter of popExpires 1/8/13. One coupon per order.

Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery. Coupon good at Tasty Pizza in St. Francis.

Buy any ½ rack of ribs for dinner and get the second

½ rack of ribs for only $5 Expires 1/8/13. One coupon per order.

Good for large dinner size only, must buy two. Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery.


Get two large, two topping pizzas for only ��

$22Expires 1/8/13.

One coupon per order. Must buy two. Void with other offers. Eat-in, take-out or delivery.


$5 OFF A purchase of $25 or more

Expires 1/8/13. One coupon per order. Void with other offers.


St. Francis Mall • Bridge Street in St. Francis

763-753-4988Sun 2:00-10:00 p.m.; Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-10:00 p.m.; Fri & Sat 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.

Delivery AvAilAble

Try our “TAsTy” lunch buffeT! Monday-Friday 11:00 a�m�-2:00 p�m�

Everyone’s favorite pizza!Everyone’s favorite pizza!

25th Annual

customer Appreciation

Dinner!Monday, December 10

4:00 p.m. until gone

Amy Morgan, D.V.M.Lisa Johnson, D.V.M.

Kaija Youngner, D.V.M.Dawn Price, D.V.M.

19035 Lake George Blvd. NWOak Grove, MN 55303763-753-6336www.oakgrovevet.net

Happy Holidays!The holidays are just around the corner, make your pet’s boarding reservation now.

Heating & Cooling Solutions proudly accepts:

www.heatcoolsolut.com

Financing options are availableContact us for details

$100 Off(Or A Free Filter)

Furnace, Heat Pump or A/C Installation

“Meeting Your CoMfort needs”

Contact us today at 763-434-8893

Call Heating & Cooling Solutions for details at

763-434-8893Offer valid on Bryant efficiency heat pumps, furnaces & AC install. Must be present at time of quote. Cannot be combined with any

other offers or cash back rebates. Call for details.

*On qualifying furnace, A/C & heat pump purchases.

Bryant Factory reBates

up to $550*

Utility reBates

up to $805*

presented by the St. Francis Lioness/Lions Club

Saturday, december 89:00-11:30 a.m.

St. Francis American Legion HallCounty Road 24 (Bridge Street)

& County Road 9

Tickets sold at the door: $3.00 for age 10 and under; $4.00 adultsBring your camera to take pictures with Santa.

Fun, Food and door PrizeS

Proceeds for community projects.

enGaGeMentMr. and Mrs. richard Schwingler of Burnsville are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Stephanie Schwingler to alan Williams, son of Mr. richard Williams of east Bethel and Mrs. Kelly larson of Princeton. Ms. Schwingler is a 2005 graduate of Burnsville Senior High School, and a 2011 graduate of Purdue university. She is currently employed as a Sterile Processing Technician at St. Johns Hospital. Mr. Williams is a 2003 graduate of St. Francis High School and has been employed as owner of Williams landscaping since 2005. The couple is planning a wedding for June 2013, and will reside in east Bethel following their nuptials. SubmitteD PHOtO

Give the Gift of LifeA RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

will be held at the St. Francis Methodist Church3914 229th Avenue • St. Francis, MN

Thursday, December 27, 2:00-7:00 p.m.


Holiday Hours Christmas Eve 5:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Christmas Day Closed New Year’s Eve 5:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. New Year’s Day 8:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

Season’s Greetings from all of us at County Market!

23122 St. Francis Blvd. • St. Francis, MN 55070763-753-3334

Open Seven DayS Monday-Saturday 5:00 a.m.-Midnight

Sunday 6:00 a.m.-Midnight

ATM • Goodrich Pharmacy • Gift Cards • Floral Bakery • Full Service Deli • Service Meat Case

CO

up

On

CO

up

On

CO

up

On

X1000

Buy any car wash get a gallon ofWiNDshiElD WashEr FluiD

FrEEExpires 1/8/13.

Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at St. Francis County Market.

X1001

5¢ OffPer Gallon All Grades of Gas

ExprEss GasolinEs

Cash transactions only, must pay inside store.

Expires 1/8/13. Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at

St. Francis County Market.

X1001

5¢ OffPer Gallon All Grades of Gas

ExprEss GasolinEs

Cash transactions only, must pay inside store.

Expires 1/8/13. Not good with other offers. Limit one per visit. Valid only at

St. Francis County Market.

Tantalizing Party Trays From Our Deli!Make it easy on yourself this

holiday season. Place your order with our

Deli Department early for a fabulous party tray.

Make this season one to remember…

Give a Luscious Fruit Basket.Spectacular fresh fruit baskets

are gifts that say “you’re special” naturally! Call our Produce

Department for ideas.

You Create The Occasion…

We’ll make the celebration special with Specialty Roasts.

Top quality Seasonal Meat Favorites are available for special order, just give our Meat Department a call!

Make your holiday

gift giving easy with King’s Gift

Card.

Association of Parents and Teachers maintains an active presence at SFES anGie Hylen SFeS cOmmunity reLatiOnS cOOrDinatOr

St. Francis Elementary School (SFES) is fortunate to have a very active Association of Parents and Teachers (APT) group which sponsors many activities and fundraisers throughout the year. Various committees within the group run a plethora of activities. Fourth and fifth grade activity nights are popular APT-run events hosted at intervals throughout the school year, offering music, food, theme-based décor, and an array of activities. The group sponsors book fairs during parent-teacher conferences and uses the proceeds to purchase books for the school. Secret Santa Shop is an opportunity for young children to visit Santa, enjoy refreshments, and buy small gifts for family members while assisted by volunteer elves. The most extensive APT project is the annual SFES carnival, where the school is transformed into a midway lined with booths, games, and activities staffed by an army of volunteers.

The APT holds several on-going fundraisers in addition to limited sales drives and special events. The funds are donated to the school for the purchase of approved materials and equipment, and to help finance special projects. In the past, APT-generated money has purchased library books, playground equipment, tables, and music education equipment. Funds have also been donated towards projects that are proposed by staff members and approved by the

APT, such as the purchase of T-shirts for all SFES kindergarten students. In addition to fundraising and hosting special events, the APT provides services for students and staff, such as the yearbook, and Staff Appreciation week.

Recently, the APT spearheaded a fundraising campaign selling food and craft items from Chip Shoppe. The fundraiser was a success, raising over $20,000 dollars, and the company offered a unique reward to students who reached sales goals—duct taping Dean of Students Scott Kruger to the wall. Kruger subjected himself to this unusual incentive on November 8, when each class signed up for a five minute time slot to attach him to the wall outside the main office. Each student who sold more than a designated number of items was allowed to apply a piece of tape. He began the two-hour session standing on a small platform, which was later removed, and spent the last few minutes suspended from the wall. The school nurse was on hand to ensure that safety precautions were met and that Kruger had plenty of water and moral support. Staff and students were on hand to apply adhesive, enjoy the unusual spectacle, and take pictures!

While the APT is an active group, they are always looking for new members and volunteers. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 18, 6:00 p.m. at SFES. Contact [email protected] for more information.

St. Francis elementary School Dean of Students Scott Kruger was a good sport and allowed himself to be duct taped to the wall by students who met sales goals on a recent aPT fundraiser. Duct tape really does work for anything! SubmitteD PHOtO

the courier - december 2012

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