the courier - january 2010
DESCRIPTION
Publication of Independent School District 15, St. Francis, MinnesotaTRANSCRIPT
� e Couriera division of Independent School District 15 Community Education & Services
4115 Ambassador Boulevard, St . Francis , Minnesota 55070
BELOW ZERO WINTER ACTIVITIES, INCOME TAX TIPS, AREA HUNTING ACHIEVEMENTS
JANUARY 2010 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 6 WWW.THECOURIER.ORG
SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS
ISD 15 school board meetings: Monday, January 25 and Monday, February 8, 7:00 p.m., Central Services Center, 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis. The public is also invited to “Dialogue with the School Board” at 6:30 p.m.
INSIDE
2 Schools in Action
10 Community Education
12 School Board
13 Community & Business
15 Below Zero
22 Sports & Outdoors
25 Life
28 Classifi ed
www.advancedautomotivecare.netConveniently located on Hwy 47 and
Stark Drive in St. Francis
FREE pair of Windshield Wiper Blades for every customer who spends $50 or more in repairs.Offers expires January 31, 2010.One set per vehicle repair. Certain restrictions apply to this offer.
The St. Francis City Council and Minnesota Department of Transportation authorized the reopen-ing of the snowmobile trail through St. Francis along Highway 47. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held December 29. Pictured (L-R) are Chad Johnson of the St. Francis Sno-Ghosts Snow-mobile Club, Gary Zimmerman of Sno-Ghosts and the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce, Chamber President David Johnson, and St. Francis Mayor Jerry Tveit. The trail runs north/south along the west side of Highway 47 only—for safety purposes due to the elementary and middle schools on the east side. There is also designated parking for snowmobiles near Billy’s Neighbor-hood Bar & Grill. Snowmobiles are permitted on the east side of town only up to County Road 9. PHOTO BY DEANNA BAHR, HIGHLAND MONEY MANAGEMENT
BY TOM LARSONSTAFF WRITER
Once in a while, a unique person comes along who has been
more than inspirational to hundreds if not thousands of community residents through his generous gift of time and commitment.
Jim Perleberg Sr. of Andover, a local icon for the promotion of the visual arts and music, passed away of cancer on December 16. He was a giant among local wildlife artists and musicians.
Perleberg was well-known for his wildlife art, banjo-picking, teaching painting to students young and old, sharing his passions, and giving of his time. He was ambitious and saw beauty in everything. He looked to the out-of-doors for inspiration for his paintings and pen and ink sketches of deer, ducks, and other wildlife. Many of his pieces are on display at the Sandhill Center for the Arts located in Bethel. Read-ers of The Courier may re-member his Pen & Palette column that appeared from 1996 to 2003.
He was also a man of many musical talents. He shared his musical abilities freely—always playing, sometimes composing, jammin’ with friends, performing when asked, forever teaching, and always the eternal optimist.
Perleberg was the founder of the Thursday night Ram-ble that was held monthly at Sandhill. He organized, arranged, and opened and closed the center on the fourth Thursday of the month for musicians to come and jam. The jamming at the Ramble was a tremendous outlet, not only for him, but for fellow musicians and for the audi-ence that � lled the Bethel Cabaret to listen to good mu-sic and enjoy refreshments and great company.
Perleberg was one of the founders of the Sandhill Center for the Arts. As a matter of record, the name of the center was inspired and memorialized with his mural that adorns the conference room. Perleberg was one of a dozen Sandhill Center advisory council members that spearheaded the
Local wildlife artist and musician will be missed
Jim Perleberg Sr. stands with a mural he painted on a wall at the Sandhill Center for the Arts in Bethel. Perleberg passed away De-cember 16, 2009. He will be missed by many. THE COURIER PHOTO
BY SHANE DUEHNST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR, DECA TREASURER
St. Francis High School DECA (a business-marketing student organization) mem-bers held their sixth annual dodgeball tournament on November 20 to raise funds for fellow student Mike Ma-roney who was injured in a car accident over the sum-mer. The games opened with an explanation of everything Maroney went through and then the teams dispersed to their courts and started get-ting pumped for their � rst game of the night.
Chapter members got busi-ness sponsorships or dona-tions to help raise money for this cause. In addition, there were two different T-shirt de-signs with sponsoring busi-nesses listed on the back.
“It was super stressful putting everything together and get-ting all the sponsors, as well as setting everything up, but the week before the tourna-ment, everything started com-ing together. It was really nice to see all of our hard work come together as a whole,” said DECA Special Events Co-ordinator Axel Rosar.
DECA had the most teams register and earned the larg-
Group raises money for studentest pro� t since the tourna-ment started six years ago. The previous high was achieved two years ago when DECA raised $2,000 and 16 teams participated. This year’s tournament generated $4,500 in revenue and had a full roster of 23 teams. After covering expenses, DECA
CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 LOCAL ARTIST
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 FUNDRAISER
2 The Courier | January 2010 Schools in Action
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CorreCTionOn the front page of the December 2009 Courier, the word sol-dier was misspelled. The article was written by Rebecka Mani-ac, a fifth grade student at East Bethel Community School. The typo was introduced while the December issue was in produc-tion and was not the fault of the writer. Our sincere apology to Rebecka and a thank you to all our readers who found the error and let us know about it.
STudenT updaTeMolly Montgomery has been named recipient of a $,1000 Maverick scholarship from Minnesota State University, Mankato for the 2009-2010 academic school year. This scholarship is awarded to stu-dents who demonstrate out-standing academic achieve-ment. Molly is the daughter of Bruce and Christy Mont-gomery of East Bethel.
Schools in Action3www.The-Courier.org The Courier | January 2010
edwArd SAXtOnthe Superintendent’S cOrner
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ISANTI HOME SHOW – March 27 & 28 For booth availability, visit www.isantihomeshow.com
or call 763-444-8303 for more information.
We are a United Drugs participating pharmacy,
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NATIVE AMERICAN STORYTELLER
“COCHISE”Saturday, January 23
1:00 p.m.Sandhill Center For The Arts
23820 Dewey St. NWBethel
Please bring a potluck dish to share afterwards; juice, water, and coffee will be provided.
Contact Dennis Sargent at 763-389-5887 for more information.
ST. franCiS elemenTary
the St. Francis elementary christmas tree in the school’s main offi ce was decorated with hedgie hats colored by the students. the christmas tree was donated by b&J trees of clear Lake, minn. and delivered by Scott halldorson and boy Scout troop 511.
SuBmiTTed By SCoTT KrugerSChool SoCial worKer, ST. franCiS elemenTary
eaST BeThel CommuniTy SChool
the kindergarten plus class was given a lesson on how to use chopsticks by miss winnie, our visiting teacher from china. miss winnie also visited earlier in the year to share a chinese folk tale with the children, as well as helping the children learn about the chinese new year celebration, which will begin in February. thank you, miss winnie, for sharing your culture with us. under-standing and learning about diff erent countries makes us realize how similar we really are.
SuBmiTTed By leSlee KleinKe-ySeTh, eBCS KindergarTen pluS TeaCher
One of the great lessons we learn in Minnesota is deliv-ered by the ever-changing daily weather. Toward the end of December, multiple snowfl akes arrived incre-mentally and most certainly, the accumulation caused many of us to change or alter family plans. Now we are in the frigid grip of a cold front, and by the time this paper is published, it may well be warmer—or at least moder-ately warmer.
How does this relate to our school system? Good ques-tion. School systems, much like the weather, affect all members of our commu-nity, our state, and even our nation. The strength of any educational system refl ects the priorities of those who live and work in the school district.
One of the priorities for the 2009-10 school year was to embrace technology as an instructional tool. People moved Online in '09—teacher web sites, online work or-ders for maintenance, elec-tronic routing in transporta-tion, electronic payments for school lunches, and more. We have electronic deposits for payroll, and most insurance issues can be handled online. We are increasingly becom-ing more and more effi cient as an organization.
Being an effi cient organiza-tion is noteworthy, but the true test of our ingenuity will be our ability to enhance the educational opportunities of-fered to our students. Tech-nology is rapidly changing the educational environment. Our teachers have better tools available for instructional en-richment.
The SMART Boards installed in our K-5 classrooms will im-prove student engagement. We have used these boards, and the piloting teachers are extremely excited about the potential for increased learning opportunities. The electronic document cameras and projectors have allowed teachers at the middle school
and the high school to har-ness the Internet as a teach-ing tool.
Visiting a classroom in 2010 is considerably different from the 1970s, 80s, 90s, or even the fi rst several years of this century.
District 15’s Teacher Acad-emy is grounded in the con-cept of researched-based instruction. These research-based strategies, combined with innovative technology,
will place our students in the middle of one of the most progressive educational set-tings in the country.
A friend of mine once told me, “Students understand technology. Teachers under-stand instruction. As soon as someone fi gures out how to blend generational talent, we’re in for one of the most exciting educational revolu-tions in history.”
As for the weather: we know it is going to
change, we know we can’t control
the speed at which it will change, we know we CAN control
how we engage with the change at hand.
As for technology: we know it is going to
change, we know we can’t control
the speed at which it will change, we know we CAN control
how we engage with the change at hand.
To sum it up, change is not on the way—it is here. Our entire staff understands and embraces the opportunity. Educationally speaking, the 2010 forecast calls for an excellent growing season. Together, let’s anticipate a bountiful harvest.
It’s tax time, advertise your tax services to generate
more revenue.Call Janice today at
763-753-7032 to ask how she can help your business.
4 The Courier | January 2010 www.The-Courier.orgSchools in Action
The Courier is a monthly publication distributed by Independent School District 15 Community Education & Services.
The publication is delivered at no charge to all residents in Independent School District 15 the first Wednesday of each month. An annual subscription is available for $18 (12 issues). The Courier will be mailed to any address.
Please direct comments, questions, and inquiries to:
The Courier 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis, MN 55070-9368
Telephone: 763-753-7031
Fax: 763-753-4693
Advertising: 763-753-7032
Billing: 763-753-7031
Editor: 763-753-7042
Email: [email protected]
Web site: www.the-courier.org
deadline informaTion
Deadline for the February 3 issue of The Courier is January 14 or before, unless other arrangements are made. Information about advertising—call Janice Audette at 763-753-7032. Information on story or photo submissions—call 763-753-7031. Check out The Courier online at www.the-courier.org.
Courier STaff
Publisher Tom Larson
Editor Kathleen Miller
Advertising Sales Janice Audette
Graphic Artist Pat Johnson
Staff Writers Alicia Loehlein
Tom Larson
ProductionBinie Bertils
Billing Alicia Loehlein
eaST BeThel CommuniTy SChool
Rum River Viola & Violin StudioYear-Round Lessons
Private Teacher Viola & ViolinAvailable for Special Occasions•Beth Guck
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5218 171st Avenue NWAndover, MN
A guest for lunchSubmitted by Vicki LAwry, Jenny dArLing, And ApriL LArSeneBCS TeaCherS
Students at East Bethel Community School love to cook. Be-fore Thanksgiving break, they prepared lunch and dessert for Principal Angie Scardigli. Students worked on table manners and proper etiquette when having a guest over for a meal. Stu-dents prepared spaghetti, tossed salad, bread, and a whipped chocolate dessert. The room had an Italian flair with opera music playing in the background. One student escorted Mrs. Scardigli to her chair and seated her. She was asked many ques-tions about herself, ranging from are you married, do you have any children, to do you like cars and football. She taught the students about Napkin In Lap (NIP), a term she uses with her own children at the dinner table. It was a big hit. Students are already talking about the next meal they would like to prepare for Mrs. Scardigli.
Students are reading Strega Nona, a children’s book written and illustrated by Tomie dePaola, which is about an elderly lady who helps her fellow villagers and learned about not listening and eating too much food. They also worked on measuring and proportioning skills in math. Students are able to cook bi-week-ly at East Bethel Community School and always look forward to the next adventure. This project is funded by the school’s very generous PTO.
the week of thanksgiving, miss Olson’s second grade class put on a performance of Arthur’s thanksgiving for their parents and relatives, as well as the first and second grade students at east bethel community School. the students also recited poems and sang songs between scenes of the play. SuBmiTTed By miSS olSon, eBCS 2nd grade TeaCher
Students prepared and sat down for a meal with their guest, east bethel community School principal Angie Scardigli. they prac-ticed table manners and etiquette. SuBmiTTed phoTo
Submitted by kAtie ArnOLdeBCS CommuniTy relaTionS CoordinaTor
During the month of Novem-ber, East Bethel Community School and Community In-volvement PAC sponsored a Thanksgiving basket food collection and distribution for families in need. The St. Francis American Legion Post 622 generously donated turkeys for the baskets and the students and staff at EBCS donated over 700 pounds of food.
Boy Scout and St. Francis High School student Vincent Blonigen spearheaded a toy collection at the high school to earn his Eagle Award. He collected over 100 games and donated them to all three District 15 elementary schools to add to their Thanksgiving baskets. Other boy scouts from Blonigen’s troop joined him in volunteering their time to help distribute Thanksgiving baskets the week of Thanksgiving. Along with the Boy Scouts, the A Team from the Blaine Kohl’s donated their time to our delivery efforts, as well a preparing Flash Math materials for a school wide
donated items create thanksgiving baskets for area families
Students loading boxes with food that was collected for thanks-giving baskets. SuBmiTTed phoTo
boy Scouts helped with pickup and delivery of thanksgiving bas-kets. Vincent blonigen, second from right, organized a toy drive at the high school and distributed them to the district’s elemen-tary schools for their baskets. SuBmiTTed phoTo
math initiative. Thank you to all of our volunteers who donated their time and those of you who donated food.
You truly made a difference with those families who received a basket.
the east bethel community School and community involvement pAc sponsored our annual caring and Sharing tree where students and staff donated new hats and mittens. we collected several boxes during the month of december. Students who were in need were given the opportunity to choose a hat and pair of mittens. the rest of the items were donated to the north Anoka county emergency Food Shelf in east bethel. pictured (left) is Lillian whitney, corbin brunn, and tommy carls adding their donations to the caring tree.
SuBmiTTed By KaTie arnoldeBCS CommuniTy relaTionS
CoordinaTor
5www.The-Courier.org The Courier | January 2010 Schools in Action
Kindergarten registration is just around the corner• If you are going to register in a private school, home school,
enroll in another school district or hold back your child, please contact 763-753-7049. As of February 1, 2010 you may access kindergarten registration forms online at www.stfrancis.k12.mn.us. If you do not receive a postcard by February 5, please contact 763-753-7049.
District-wide registration will be held at the following locations:• Lifelong Learning Center on February 23, 5:30-7:00 p.m.• Lifelong Learning Center on February 24, 10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.• Central Service Center on February 25, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
If you do not have Internet access, you may pick up the registration forms at any of the following sites:• St. Francis Elementary ............................... 22919 St. Francis Blvd.• Cedar Creek Community School ........................21108 Polk St. NE• East Bethel Community School ..........................21210 Polk St. NE• Lifelong Learning Center ...............................18900 Cedar Dr. NW• ISD 15 Central Services Center .................4115 Ambassador Blvd.
Please come to registration with as much of the following information as possible!
These items must be completed before entering kindergarten: Student Information form – found online at
www.stfrancis.k12.mn.us Legal birth certificate from courthouse Early Childhood Screening – call 763.753.7187 for an
appointment Required immunizations – 5 DTaP, 4 Polio, 2 MMR, 3 Hepatitis
B, Varicella (chicken pox) – Submit immunization dates at Kindergarten registration
Kindergarten physical – not required, but highly recommended
Kindergarten Entrance AgeThe entrance age for kindergarten students is five years on or before September 1. Early admission is not encouraged. To have
your child considered for early entrance requires a specific process which takes 60 to 90 days to complete. For further information, contact the elementary principal of your child’s school.Independent School District 15 • St. Francis
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ST. franCiS high SChool
by dAwn AbrAhAmSfhS CounSeling CenTer
A big thank you goes out to the St. Francis area busi-nesses and community mem-bers for conducting a day of mock interviewing for some St. Francis High School stu-dents. Over 100 Future’s Prep Finale (FPF) students partici-pated in a 15-minute mock interview. The interview is an excellent learning opportuni-ty for students and for many, it was their first interview ex-perience.
“I was so nervous my hands were shaking, but once it was over it made me realize I could do this again. Mr. For-bort prepared us for the inter-view!” said one FPF student.
The Future’s Prep Finale class is offered to juniors and se-niors, and helps students pre-pare for life after graduation. It covers everything from post secondary education to
money management skills, as well as inventory assess-ments, interviewing skills, resume writing, financial aid, and more. The amount of stu-dents requesting this class al-most doubled from last year due to the positive feedback from previous students. We could not have offered this great opportunity to students without the time that was donated by local volunteers. The following businesses participated in the mock in-terview on November 24:
Laura Carlson, St. Francis Mansetti’s Pizza and Pasta; Steve Davis, SFHS assistant principal; Alysa Erickson, SFHS career advisor; Lori Gerhardson, Advanced Automotive Care, Inc.; Joe Haag, Community Pride Bank; Jennifer Helgeson, SFHS counselor; Jaymie Helle, SFHS counselor; Dana Henjum, North
High school students practice job hunting skills with mock interviews
the november St. Francis high School students of the month were back row (L-r): tom hackbarth, Lindsey rodin, bincent blonigen, elizabeth hicks, nicole bathke; front row: michelle Archer, Anas-tasia picha, Jared goldeman, kalli haapoja, and karlie huebner. not pictured were Zian cross and Jordan plath. SuBmiTTed By STeven feTziK
SfhS novemBer STudenTS of The monTh
Country Exteriors; Dana Hoenigschmidt, Kid’s County Childcare; John Huninghake, Nowthen Nursery; Matt Hylen, City of St. Francis; Patty Jentsch, St. Francis Veterinary Clinic; Amy Kelly, ISD 15 school board chair; Justine Larson, Bridge Street Coffee Box & Sweet Shoppe; Matt Lasiuta, Anoka Hennepin Credit Union; Chase Lenz, Edward Jones Financial; John LeTourneau, Market Forward/CO2 Partners; Heidi Olsen, Kid’s Country Childcare; Dr. Cindy Opp, Opp Family Chiropractic; Bobbie Rink, Anoka Hennepin Credit Union; Sara D. Sauer, CPA; Edward Saxton, superintendent of Independent School District 15; Tammy Sworsky, SFHS counselor; Jeff Rosseau, Village Bank; Mary Trembley, First National Investors Services, a subsidiary of
CroSSroadS SChool and voCaTional CenTer
elementary students at crossroads School made fleece blankets for the Adopt a Family project sponsored by the student council. Students were able to participate in the project by making the blankets from donated fleece. pictured is a student with educa-tional assistant Sharon hohn. SuBmiTTed By Kelly SCofield, CroSSroadS TeaCher
holiday shopping helps teach mathSubmitted by miriAm FLySJOCroSSroadS SpeCial eduCaTion TeaCher
Miriam Flysjo’s resource math class used newspaper ads to learn about percent-ages. Flysjo taught students how to figure sales tax using a calculator. Each student was given copies of the advertise-ments from the Thanksgiving paper. They looked through the ads to find what they would buy. Then they filled out a worksheet listing the item and sales price. Using a calculator they determined the sales tax and final price. The students enjoyed dream-ing about what they would get. They did a good job cal-culating the sales tax and fi-nal prices.
The Courier online is updated weekly and features a calendar of community events, photos,
and other information.
www.the-courier.org
the First National Bank of Elk River; Luanne Wagner, SFHS assistant principal; and Crystal Ziebarth, Anoka
Hennepin Credit Union.
Thanks again to everyone that participated.
Area business professionals generously donated their time to the career center’s mock interview day. high school students had the opportunity to experience what a job interview would be like. SuBmiTTed phoTo
out through my long journey of recovery. It was also nice to see people who I didn’t even know there and supporting me,” he said.
There were approximately 100 spectators who came to watch the tournament and support their friends. Dur-ing the tournament, there was also a contest to see who could throw the fastest time, as well as a raffle drawing
that included over 50 prizes,” said Maroney
In the end the junior boys’ team, led by Jon Lucas, came out on top.
“It was very gratifying to see a number of students step up and make the tournament a huge success. This year’s DECA members have really set the standard of excellence high,” said DECA Advisor Mr. Schleper.
6 The Courier | January 2010 www.The-Courier.orgSchools in Action
Jeffrey W. Williams, O.D.
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counseling department highlightsSubmitted by tAmmy SwOrSkySfhS CounSelor
2010-11 registration
Registration for the next school year is approach-ing fast for St. Francis High School students. Students want to be thinking about classes that interest them and those that may guide them in
their plans for the future. Stu-dents will be registering on-line January 25 though Feb-ruary 5. Counselors will be visiting 8th grade students at the middle school to answer any questions they may have regarding their 9th grade reg-istration. 8th grade registra-tion nights this year will be held at 7:00 p.m. on January 26 and 28 at the high school.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding registra-tion or graduation require-ments, call the SFHS counsel-ing office at 763.213.1590.
from page 1FundrAiSer
»will be donating $4,000 to Mike Maroney and his family.
Maroney and his mom Deb made a special appearance and DJ Mike Starr donated his time to play music that pumped up the players and got them ready for a long night of intense dodgeball.
“It was good to know that we are making a difference in a classmate’s life,” said DECA President Katie Mueller.
When the dodgeball commit-tee introduced Maroney to the crowd, everyone stood and applauded. Even though Maroney was disappointed he couldn’t participate, he still had a smile on his face.
“It was amazing to see ev-eryone there having a good time, as well as helping me
decA held their sixth annual dodgeball tournament in novem-ber with most of this year’s proceeds going to mike maroney and his family. maroney was injured in a car accident last summer. SuBmiTTed phoTo
financial aid nightThe Counseling Department and Career Center at St. Fran-cis High School (SFHS)would like to invite all juniors and seniors and their families to our annual Financial Aid Night on Thursday, February 4. The presentation begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at SFHS. This is an informational meeting fo-cused on the financial aid ap-plication process. Our guest speaker Valerie Knopp, as-
sistant director of St. Cloud State University’s Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, will lead you through the entire FAFSA application and answer any questions you may have related to fi-nancing for college.
State TestingThe Minnesota Comprehen-sive Assessments (MCA) have already begun at the high school. During first trimester, we administered
math, reading, and writing MCA re-take tests, and will continue to offer remedia-tion and re-take opportuni-ties throughout the school year for those who have not yet passed the state tests. Students taking the MCA tests for the first time will be tested in April 2010 with their grade level.
Grade 9: Writing MCA
Grade 10: Reading MCA
Grade 11: Math MCA
ST. franCiS high SChool
ST. franCiS middle SChool
eAt. tALk. cOnnect! Submitted by JAne benJAminSfmS liCenSed SChool nurSe
Anoka County Public Health department has invited St. Francis Middle School to participate in this family program. The school nurse, health teachers, and 6th grade science teachers are ea-ger to become part of this ini-tiative from the state health improvement plan. Parents of middle school students will have an opportunity to sign-up for EAT. TALK. CONNECT! at parent/teach-er conferences on February 4 and 9, 3:30-7:00 p.m. This is an online program. Eat. Talk. Connect! is a three-month program that encourages families to develop strong connections and share their values by eating at least three meals together each week with the television turned off. The goal of three meals a week is set intentionally low to encourage participation.
Please look for your school nurse at parent/teacher con-ferences to sign-up. It is sim-ple—your consent and your email address is all we need to get you on board.
Benefits of family meal time
Personal connections are im-portant to one’s health and success. We are all “hard-wired” with a need for deep and meaningful connections with each other. Eating meals together is one of the best ways to get connected. Re-search shows that kids who eat five or more meals with their family each week: are 40-60 percent less likely
to smoke, use drugs or al-cohol, or engage in sexual activity. have greater academic suc-
cess. eat more nutritiously and
have a reduced risk for de-veloping disordered eating behaviors. experience less stress and
are significantly less likely to be depressed.
Contact Jane Benjamin with questions at 763-213-8510.
St. Francis High School
Trap Club• Trap club is a spring sport—
watch for registration inFebruary. Open to SFHS stu-dentsgrades9-12.
• Club meets Monday eveningsbeginningApril5atMinnetonkaGameandFishClubwestofSt.Francis.SeasonendsearlyJune.
• Formoreinformationandrequire-ments to join or registrationpacketsstop intheCommunityEducation office located at St.FrancisHighSchoolorcall763-213-1640. Registration packetswillbeavailableFebruary22.
Sponsored by ISD 15 Community Education & Services
winter wonderland Activity nightSubmitted by JOe FredrickSOnSfmS CommuniTy relaTionS CoordinaTor
St. Francis Middle School held its second Activity Night on De-cember 11. The recent snow and frosty temperatures were right in line for the theme of the evening, “Winter Wonderland.” The 6th grade portion was held from 2:30 until 5:00 p.m. and the 7th and 8th grade students were 5:30-8:00 p.m. Activities were held throughout the school. Basketball, dodgeball, and pin guard were going on in the gym. Other areas had a place to get a pic-ture taken with friends, watch a movie, and dance to some mu-sic. A large bingo game took place in the cafeteria where prizes were on display and snacks sold.
The next Activity Night will be held on Friday, February 19 with the theme of “Luau,” so find your Hawaiian shirt and get ready for fun!
Activity night at St. Francis middle School gives students an op-portunity to have fun with friends. SuBmiTTed phoTo
Submitted by JenniFer nOrStrem SfmS SChool SoCial worKer
In November, St. Francis Middle School held its annual Canned Food Drive and collected nearly 2,000 food items and over $250. All of the food and money was donated to the North Anoka County Emer-gency Food Shelf in East Bethel. As a way to cele-brate the students’ efforts and the community in which we live, work, and go to school, the school held a Community Celebration on November 19. This is a school-wide as-sembly where some students read essays that they had written about what they like in their community, the band and choirs performed for their classmates, a food shelf representative came to thank the students for all that was collected and donated and learned how it was benefit-ing our community, and the students got to be involved in seeing how they are an im-portant part of our commu-nity as well. The celebration ended with a grocery pack-ing relay race which involved teachers and students racing on scooters to pack a bag of groceries. It was another fun and successful event for all that were involved.
7www.The-Courier.org The Courier | January 2010 Schools in Action
ORTHODONTICSSmiles by Doctor Jonak and Associates
No charge for iNitial exam • No referrals Needed
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Walking distance from St. Francis Schools
763-753-3393
800 NE Main Street Blaine
Located next to Roosevelt Junior High
763-757-2768
11/09
ST. franCiS middle SChool
core 82 toy driveSubmitted by cArOL SAbASfmS maTh TeaCher Core 82
Eighth grade student cores at St. Francis Middle School have made it a tradition to give time to help others in need. For the past several years, one of the cores has collected toys and food for the Toys for Joy program. This year, Core 82 students or-ganized the collection and donated time at the armory to help sort and pack food and gifts. In order to participate students and their parents filled out applications stating their reasons for wanting to be part of the program. Students who went to the armory said they had fun and it felt good to do something for others.
Submitted by brendA LAngSeth-perrAuLt SfmS CounSelor
Thanks to the continued support of our SMC, 6th and 8th grade stu-
dents attended peformances by CLIMB Theatre at St. Fran-cis Middle School. CLIMB Theatre’s artists write, pro-duce, and present plays and drama classes on topics such as bullying, self-control, re-spect, friendship, acceptance of differences, methamphet-amine-use prevention, and the environment.
On November 18, 6th grade students saw a play entitled, A*Part which focused on the importance of accepting dif-ferences. Actors expanded in
the eighth graders from the St. Francis middle School Jazz band and pop choir took a field trip to northtown mall on december 16. they were very excited to perform for holiday shoppers during a morning concert.
SuBmiTTed By lora uKaegBu, SfmS Jazz Band direCTor and Sandra mangloS, SfmS pop Choir direCTor
Students collect food for North Anoka County Food Shelf
eighth grade students traveled to the Anoka Armory to help sort and pack food and gifts for the toys for Joy program. SuBmiTTed phoTo
theatre productions give food for thought
the classrooms on this topic as well and facilitated activi-ties which focused on under-
standing prejudice and the importance of treating each other with mutual respect.
The 8th grade students start-ed the second trimester by seeing the play, Lockdown. In this performance, students saw how bullying, harass-ment, and prejudice can affect not only the target, but the bystander as well. Students observed ways to stand up to such harassment whether they are the target or the by-stander. The performers ex-emplified how difficult, yet rewarding, it can be to stand up against such behavior.
cLimb theatre performers (shown above and below left) enter-tained and educated middle school students. cLimb’s mission is to create and perform plays, classes, and other creative works that inspire and propel young people toward actions that benefit themselves, each other, and the community. SuBmiTTed phoTo
8 The Courier | January 2010 www.The-Courier.orgSchools in Action
Driver’s Education at St. Francis High School
CLASSROOM EDUCATIONRegistration for classroom driver’s education is being
accepted for the 2009-10 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
New VehiclesState of MN Certifi ed Instructors
Fee $225
Applications available at www.communityed15.comor call 763-213-1640 for more information.
Sponsored by ISD 15 Community Education & Services MUSIC & Consignment CenterEducator Approved Instruments
Hours: M-TH 9:30-8 • F 9:30-6 • Sat 9-4
763-421-1062108 MAIN STREET • ANOKA
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If your son or daughter is in Band or an Orchestra Program
Remember the Three R’s…
NEW & USED Band, Orchestra, Guitars, Drums
Bring your instruments in and we’ll sell them.
Rentals • Sales • Lessons Repairs • Guitar Supplies
Piano Books (In Stock or Order)
www.reynoldsmusicanoka.com
Cedar CreeK CommuniTy SChool
On november 20, cedar creek community School principal darin hahn (left) and Assis-tant principal Jill kelly (right)helped out in the lunchroom. they served lunch to the stu-dents and even helped out with the dishes. the princi-pals do this a couple of times a year and everyone seems to enjoy it. SuBmiTTed By rhonda wieBuSChCCCS adminiSTraTive aSSiSTanT
Submitted by SAndrA benSOnCCCS CommuniTy relaTionS CoordinaTor
Third graders at Cedar Creek Community School
are decorating lunch bags throughout the year. The bags delivered to our senior citizens along with their hot meal from November
Fourth graders go to Macy’s and a playby ShAri cLArkCCCS TeaCher
On December 3 and 10, fourth grade students from Cedar Creek Community School went on their annual fi eld trip. The students went downtown Minneapolis to Macy’s where they enjoyed the 8th fl oor display of A Day in the Life of an Elf. It was amazing to see all the animat-ed characters and what the inside of Santa’s workshop looks like!
After Macy’s, the group trav-eled down the street to the Howard Conn Theater to see a production of The Shoemak-er and the Elves. The cast was fantastic! The play was fi lled with singing, dancing, and great acting. It was a great fi eld trip for everyone.
thanksgiving food driveSubmitted by cArOL wiLSOnCCCS liCenSed SChool nurSe
For 14 years, staff at Cedar Creek Community School have co-ordinated a Thanksgiving basket food drive. Students collect food for less fortunate families from our school community for the week prior to the Thanksgiving school break. We tradition-ally serve 18-24 families. Each family receives a turkey donated by the St. Francis American Legion Post 622 and games donat-ed by Vince Blonigan and the Boy Scouts from East Bethel. The boxes are donated by St. Francis County Market. Two parent volunteers helped to box up the food—Andrea Bode and Kari Dimuzio—thank you to them. This is truly a community effort and it teaches our young people how to serve and be of service to others.
First grade students at cedar creek community School learned about the early settlers by helping to plan and participate a thanksgiving mini-feast. the menu included apple juice, trail mix, pumpkin bread and butter made by the fi rst graders. Students also made pilgrim hats and woven placemats. thank you to the many parents and volunteers who helped to make our mini-feast at cccS a great success! Students pictured are Aubrey burns and paige Lee. SuBmiTTed By Sandra BenSon, CCCS CommuniTy relaTionS CoordinaTor
through August. Each student will make three bags for a total of 750 bags. The bags will go to the Northeast Dinner Bell Program and will be used with their Meals on Wheels program. Each person getting Meals on Wheels will receive the cold part of their lunch in a colorful lunch bag along with a message like, “Have a Great Day” or, “Happy Lunch!”
brightening a senior citizen’s day with decorated lunch bags Pictured are students in Mrs. Peterson’s classroom
working at brightening the days for our senior citizens.
9www.The-Courier.org The Courier | January 2010 Schools in Action
MiDwEst FAMiLy CouNsELiNg, P.A.
Therapy for Adults & Youth Day – Evening Appointments
763-753-945923038 Rum River Boulevard, St. Francis
By St. Francis High School
Bruce w. Barton, M.Div., M.A., LMFt, LP
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Bridge Street
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SF High School
REGiStER tOdAY
fOR thE NEw SESSioN! Join us for a fREE trial drawing class
Local artist Erich Fritz is here to help all ages learn to draw!
Open Gym for ages 5-18Fridays 7:00-9:00 p.m. • Saturday 1:00-3:00 p.m.
763.444.4222 23815 Johnson Street • East Bethelwww.gymnasticsgalaxy.com
Call today for info!
Chu’s Cardio-KiCKboxingCall Chu at 763-300-4074 or email to [email protected]
to register or ask questionsBethel City Hall • 165 Main Street NW
Kick your way to fitness!12 Classes for $55 or
$5 per classclasses every monday
and Wednesday at 6:30-7:30 p.m., except the second Wednesday
of each month is 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cedar CreeK CommuniTy SChool TriniTy luTheran SChool
trinity students use new classroom technologySubmitted by trinity School Staff
The Neo2 is a type of laptop for classrooms. The students can write, edit, and store text on the Neo2s. They are a battery oper-ated keyboard that runs off the teacher’s classroom computer. These units can be used for classroom discussions, quizzes or tests where the teacher asks a yes/no, true/false, or multiple choice question. The students type their answers on the key-board. The answers are shown on the teacher’s computer. The teacher can choose a graph to share the number of correct an-swers and the graph can be projected for the students to see. Recently Mrs. Koch’s second grade class enjoyed this activity. The students like using a keyboard at their own desks, and see-ing the graphs showing how well they did.
The students can also do their accelerated reading quizzes and practice keyboarding without having to go to the computer lab. The teacher just has to wheel the cart that easily carries the Neo2s into the room and the fun begins!
cedar creek community School second grade students recently studied author/illus-trator eric carle. After reading several of carle’s books and learning how he created his amazing illustrations, they got a chance to design and create their own works of art. they practiced using carle’s tech-niques, which included crayon texture rubbings, stamp and sponge printing, wet-in-wet watercolor, and tissue paper painting. the cccS art room provided ample space for them to enjoy exploring the different materials.
SuBmiTTed By gwen aCKerSon, CCCS 2nd grade TeaCher
handling the stress of being a student
In light of the country’s economic downturn, few topics are as prevalent as
stress. In the course of the last year, many families have suf-fered the loss of their income, and many more have even lost their homes.
The reality of a recession al-ways illustrates the problem of stress. But for the nation’s students, stress is a reality that, unlike economic woes, is more permanent than it is temporary. Handling stress is a large part of being suc-cessful in the classroom, par-ticularly as students advance through high school and into higher education. But han-dling stress is different for ev-eryone, and there are a myri-ad of healthy ways in which students can cope with stress.
Combine regular exercise with a healthy diet. Stud-ies abound as to the mental benefits of exercise. Exer-cise not only improves a person’s physical health, but also has a positive im-pact on mood, oftentimes making it easier to cope with stress. Part of that is because exercise relieves muscle tension, which can build up greatly in in-dividuals suffering from significant stress. In addi-tion, the negative effects of stress can be weight gain and other damaging physi-cal effects, making exercise especially important for those under constant stress.
While a healthy diet can be difficult for the nation’s
ConTinued on page 30» hAndLing StreSS
Students in mrs. koch’s second grade class use the new neo2, a type of laptop for classrooms at trinity School. SuBmiTTed phoTo
why is physical education or movement essential for life?
elevate your stress threshold
Submitted by mArty henneSy, SFmS; yVOnne hAnZLik, SFe; Ann merkOuriS, dApe; rOwenA AngeLL, cccS/SFhSdiSTriCT 15 phySiCal eduCaTion SpeCialiSTS
The holidays have come and gone so quickly. Did you re-member to take a little time for yourself and relax?
In the book, Spark, John Rat-ey, M.D. says, “As far as your brain is concerned, stress is stress—the difference is in degree.”
There are many kinds of stress such as social stress, physical stress, and meta-bolic stress. Not all stress is a bad thing. Stress in small doses helps people learn to cope and solve problems, but in large doses, the brain tries to decide whether it should stay or run away. Actively coping with stress through exercise can be healthy. Get out and exercise at least once a day to help eliminate stress and inactivity.
Ratey also says, “The paradox is that our wonderful ability to adapt and grow doesn’t happen without stress—we can’t have the good without a bit of the bad.”
the�courier�|�January�2010� www.the-courier.org10 Community Education
Bright BeginningsBright Beginnings in ISD 15 Early ChildhoodCall 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
Preschool Place 15 has a spot for your preschooler
You can still register for preschool for the 2009-10
School Year!Classes offered at the Lifelong Learning Center in Oak
Grove and Sandhill Center for the Arts in Bethel.
• Morning and afternoon sessions available• One, two or three times per week• Two or Two-and-a-half hour sessions• Several age speci� c class options• Sliding fee scale is available based on family size
and income• Busing available for a limited number of classes
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 readinessScreening includes: a developmental assessment vision and hearing checks immunization and health review
Call 763-753-7187 now if you have a 3 or 4-year-old child who has not been screened.
Celebrating BabyDates: Fridays, January 29 & February 5Time: 9:30-11:00 a.m.Fee: FREEYour baby must be nine months of age or younger when you attend this event. Enjoy songs and games together and meet others who are experiencing the joys and challenges of raising a baby. Don’t forget to pick up your free gift!
EventsFamily Fun Morning and NightEarly Childhood Family Education has a variety of times you and your young children can come and play with us!Fee for each event: $4 per child per time; maximum $12 or three punches per family (limit 4 children/adult)Location: Lifelong Learning Center
Pop In and PlayTime: 9:30-11:00 a.m.Days: Thursdays now-January 21 Tuesdays, January 26- March 23Dates and Themes:January 7: Winter FunJanuary 14: Pizza PieJanuary 21: Let’s Go ShoppingJanuary 26: Polar Bears & PenguinsFebruary 2: Red, Red EverywhereFebruary 9: Messy Moments
Marvelous MondaysTime: 6:30-8:00 p.m.Dates: Mondays, January 11 February 8
March 8 April 12
Make Way for Learning: Ooey GooeyDates: Wednesdays, January 13 & 20Time: 12:45-2:45 p.m.Fee: $8 per child or two punches
Come ready to get your hands dirty! We’ll make and explore many items that turn out to be quite ooey gooey. This class is for children three to five years of age and is for children only. This class is designed to reinforce early skills that are the building blocks for budding readers, math whizzes and scientists.
Mr. McGee & the Biting Flea at Children’s TheatreDate: Friday, February 19Time: Bus leaves LLC at 9:00 a.m.;
returns by 2:00 p.m.Fee: $15 per personDeadline: January 14What happens when a wayward duckling doesn’t listen to his mother? Meet a kind made out of dough. Dine with Mary Elizabeth and the strange being that lives in her house. Based on Pamela Allen’s writings. Recommended for preschoolers.
For Parents Only!Kids, Money & ValuesThursday, January 216:30-8:00 p.m.$3 per person/$5 per coupleIn these economic times, children need to understand, learn to use and value money. The messages parents convey through their own use of money influence those habits from the earliest years. Learn how to teach children about money, how to avoid overindulgence and examine how your values and examples will influence children, now and in the future. Presenters: Kathy Solem and Janine Atwell, licensed parent educators from Rescue Parenting.Deadline to register for this workshop is January 19.
We’re Making a Family Connection
Celebrating Baby
Family Connection
ECFE is:• A place for babies
• A place for toddlers
• A place for preschoolers
• A place for all dads, moms
and other relatives in a
parenting role.
See all classes at www.stfrancis.k12.mn.us
Call 763-763-7170 for fees and registration information
Dads: Are you looking for
something to do with your
child this winter?
Try out our Dads ’N Me Saturdays
Beat those long winter weekends and share quality
time with your young children. Activities chosen
especially for dads and children ages 2-6 years of age
to enjoy together.
Dads ’N Me Saturdays: Mold It, Grind It, Build It
Come and enjoy our classroom workshop full of fun
activities that dad and child can work on together.
Date: Saturday, January 16
Time: 9:30-11:00 a.m.
Fee: $4 per child; max $12 per family
(limit of 4 children/adult)
Location: Lifelong Learning Center
Deadline: Thursday, January 14
Dads ’N Me Saturdays: Roll It, Catch It, Kick It
Use a variety of different sports equipment to
participate in these fun and unique activities with
your child.
Date: Saturday, February 6
Time: 9:30-11:00 a.m.
Fee: $4 per child; max $12 per family
(limit of 4 children/adult)
Location: Lifelong Learning Center
Deadline: Thursday, February 4
Plan your year with ECFE!Register now for parents/child classes! New classes begin in January and February!
Find class offerings in the Learn & Thrive brochure or visit us online at www.stfrancis.k12.mn.us to register for any classes, special events or field trips.
EARLY CHILDHOOD FAMILY CARNIVALFor children ages birth-kindergarten and their parents
Lifelong Learning CenterSaturday January 30 • 9:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.Cost is $1.00 per child; max. of $3.00 per family
AND a non-perishable food item for local food shelves.
Bring the family and enjoy some fun activities, games, crafts, face-painting, and much more. Try out the inflatable jumper! Shop at the Scholastic Book Fair and yes,
the “Basket Raffle” will be back, with tickets on sale at the event only.
Hope to see you there!Sponsored by the Early Childhood Advisory Council*
For more information, call 763-753-7170
*The Advisory Council will accept donations such as gift certificates to local businesses or items for the baskets. If you have a home-based business and would like to donate complete baskets or
products, your business will be acknowledged at the carnival. If you are interested in making any donations for this event, contact Lorrie Martin at 763-753-7173 or [email protected].
Jim Perleberg Sr. was a great patron of the arts. Whether it was teaching students how to paint and draw or involving community members to have fun and jam at the Sandhill Ramble, his presence will be missed.� The Courier�Photo
11www.the-courier.org� the�courier�|�January�2010 Community Education
community�education�contact�info
director:�tom�Larson�................................................................763-753-7041
adult�Basic�education�(ged)�.................................................763-753-7190Sandy�farder,�coordinator/instructor
adult�education�&�Services�...................................................763-213-1640�drivers�education/Behind�the�wheel�nancy�messerschmidt,�manager
communications�&�district�web�Site�Kathleen�miller�........................................................................763-753-7042
The Courier�newspaper�...........................................................763-753-7031Kathleen�miller,�editor�..........................................................763-753-7042Pat�Johnson,�graphics�..........................................................763-753-7025alicia�Loehlein,�Staff�writer,�Billing�..................................763-753-7033Janice�audette,�advertising�...............................................763-753-7032
facility�Scheduling�nancy�messerschmidt�..........................................................763-213-1589
family�education�&�Services�.................................................763-753-7170nancy�wallace,�Program�Supervisor
Kids�connection�theresa�antinozzi,�manager�..............................................763-213-1616Kids�connection�Lifelong�Learning�center�Site..........763-753-7160Kids�connection�St.�francis�elementary�Site�...............763-213-8674
Preschool�Place�15�....................................................................763-753-7170nancy�wallace,�Program�Supervisor
rec�department�diane�guinn,�manager�.........................................................763-213-1823heidi�antinozzi,�rec�assistant�...........................................763-213-1508
Sandhill�center�for�the�arts�theresa�antinozzi,�manager�..............................................763-213-1616
www.stfrancis.k12.mn.us� www.the-courier.org
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 today for more information, Theresa at 763.213.1616 or email [email protected]
Fitness 15 • Sandhill Center23820 Dewey StreetBethel, MN 55005
HoursM, W ,F 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. • T, Th 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
23820�dewey�Street��Bethel,�mn�55005
The Sandhill Center Lunch Bunch has a new line-up for winter and spring.
Take a peek at what is coming up next.
Most shows sell out quickly. Reservations must be made prior to the event. Reserve your seat early by calling 763-213-1641 and use your Visa, MasterCard or Discover. Reservations can also be made on the web site at www.communityed15.com.
Or mail your registration to: Lunch Bunchc/o Sandhill Center for the Arts4115 Ambassador Blvd.St. Francis, MN 55070
Groups are welcome!For more information about Sandhill
Center for the Arts, call 763-213-1616.
Sandhill Center for the Arts is a division of ISD 15 Community Education & Services
Sandhill gift ShopArtwork is displayed on a rotating basis, so you never know what you may find.
Open Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Lunch BunchJoin Lunch Bunch at Sandhill Center in the Bethel Cabaret for the monthly catered luncheon
with entertainment from popular artists.
Showtime: 11:00 a.m.Cost: $12
CODA tuesday, february 9
CODA is a saxophone/keyboard duo, consisting of Scott Dorff on soprano, alto, and tenor saxophones, and Malcolm Anderson on piano/keyboard. This duo is in its 13th year of performing live in many diverse venues for thousands of people. They continue to compose and arrange music weekly, striving to make each performance unique and pleasurable for their audience.
Next Shows:Tuesday, March 9 Mary HallTuesday, April 13 Red JohnsonTuesday, May 11 Angie Senger
ResolutionsBy Sandy FaRdeRaduLt�BaSic�education�coordinator
I am definitely going to start working out after the holidays. I am going to quit smoking right after the holi-days. I am going to start my diet after the New Year. Start-ing in January, I am going to get myself organized. Does any of this sound familiar?
While these are all noble am-bitions, I have a suggestion for another resolution: why not prepare yourself for a
brighter future? If you have been thinking about pursu-ing a better job, preparing for college, finally taking the GED exam, or finishing up the credits to earn your high school diploma, I encourage you to take that step now.
At Independent School Dis-trict 15 Adult Basic Educa-tion, which is located at the Lifelong Learning Center, we can help you accomplish all of those goals and more. We have a range of hours to ac-commodate most schedules, and we have a proficient, warm and understanding staff of teachers and volun-teers to help guide you to-wards that future you desire. We offer in-class and on-line curriculum, and we can tailor your study plan to suit your needs.
Our services are free and so is our encouragement. Every-
one who works or volunteers here is committed to educa-tion and the advancement of our students. I truly believe anyone walking into our pro-gram will find themselves warmly greeted and kindly treated by a professional and friendly staff. We make no judgments other than great respect for those making a decision to improve their lives through education.
If you are interested or know anyone who could benefit from our program, please call Sandy at 763-753-7190 or find our information in the Com-munity Education link on the District 15 web site. If you take this step, my staff and I will do everything possible to help you realize your resolu-tions. All you need to bring with you is a willing spirit and the determination to succeed.
offeringS�through�the�rec�dePartment
Girls softball CliniCSkills that will be covered include throwing, fielding, hitting, base running, and pitching.Who: GirlsgradesK-6Dates: Sundays,February21and28times: 1:00-3:00p.m.Pitching/Catchingat3:00-3:30p.m.
(includedinclinicfee)location: St.FrancisHighSchoolGyminstructors: SFHSSoftballCoachesCarolynThompsonand
AlSchlomann
fee: $25includesT-shirt.To receive T-shirt player must be registered by February 17, 2010.
Youth baseball Camp Winter baseball camp is designed to cover skills including pitching, catching, throwing, hitting, and defensive fundamentals. Players should bring a glove, tennis shoes, and youth bat (if available).
Who: Boysgrades3-8location: St.FrancisHighSchoolDates: Saturday,March20andSunday,March21times: Grades3-5 12:00-1:30p.m.
Grades6-8 2:00-3:30p.m.instructors: BrianJulson,SFHSheadbaseballcoachSFHSassistant
baseballcoachesandcurrentSFHSbaseballplayersfee: $25foroneday(includesT-Shirt) $40forbothdays(includesT-Shirt) To receive a T-shirt player must be registered by
March 11, 2010.
RegisteR now at www.communityed15.com
from�Page�1LocaL aRtiSt
»building conversion project, spoke with community members,
addressed the ISD 15 School Board, and worked tirelessly to make the center a viable location for people to learn, play, and gather—all with an eye on promoting the arts.
Perleberg’s inspiration will continue in his art, some of which is on display at the Sandhill Center. His name will live on at the center’s confer-ence room that holds the sand-hill crane mural he painted. The room will be renamed in his honor as the Jim Perleberg Sr. Conference Room. Above all else, everyone who knew him, know that he was most proud of being a husband, fa-ther, and grandfather.
School board meetings are held at the Community Room in the Central Services Center located at 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis.
Monday, January 25
Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Monday, February 8
Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Monday, February 22
Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.
David Anderson, Vice Chair 763-434-9457
Sandy Grams, Director 763-434-7564
Harry Grams, Treasurer 763-856-4350
Joe Haag, Clerk 763-753-6298
Amy Kelly, Chair 763-753-4282
Marsha Van Denburgh, Director, 763-444-9996
Mark Vogel, Director 763-213-1237
Email schoolboard@
stfrancis.k12.mn.us
SchooL�Board�meeting�ScheduLe
SchooL�Board�memBerS
SchooL�Board�highLightS�decemBeR 14, 2009
By Pat JohnSonStaff�writer
Lifelong Learning Center Site Report
Program Supervisors Nancy Wallace, Early Childhood Family Education and Tim Finn, Early Childhood Special Education, briefed the school board on what is happening at the Lifelong Leaning Cen-ter. After giving a short intro-duction on Preschool Place 15, a video was played. This school year is significant for the PP 15 program because the regular and special edu-cation programs have been meshed together. It is a giant step to integrate special ser-vices, that once was separate, into regular classes for both staff, students, and parents. The center’s goal is to create classrooms that are accessible to all students. PP 15 serves 285 students; 74 of those students are receiving Early Childhood Special Services for either developmental dis-abilities or speech/language needs. PP 15 curriculum fo-cuses on learning, readiness, and growth. Both students and parents receive educa-tion and support. During the school year, approximately 1,300 children and families will participate in events and classes held at the Lifelong Learning Center.
The Crier field trip to Washington, D.C.
Advisor Glenn Morehouse-Olson and students Alexan-
BoaRd memBeR haRRy GRamSSchooL BoaRd PeRSPective
Happy New Year everyone! The first of the year always seems a time to reflect on the year gone by, and even though I don’t consider my-self to be a “reflective per-son,” there is one thing that stood out in 2009.
If you look up the meaning of “community” in Webster’s Dictionary, you’ll find one of the definitions as, “A group of people living in a particu-lar local area.” That doesn’t even scratch the surface as it relates to our school district and community.
In the last few months, we’ve had members of our district experience life changing challenges. Instead of shak-ing our heads and offering condolences, people (friends and community members) stepped up to help out. I watched as friends and fam-ily members reached out to help the families of two of our high school students, injured
School Board Highlights12 the�courier�|�January�2010� www.the-courier.org
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dra Schwalbe, Zoey Olson, and Zachary Knudson from the St. Francis High School student newspaper The Crier, thanked school board mem-bers for allowing them to take a trip to National Scholastic Press/Journalism Educators Association Fall Conference in Washington, D.C. in No-vember. Morehouse-Olson presented the board with a certificate. Each student de-scribed what they liked best about the trip and what new techniques they can imple-ment to improve the news-paper. Schwalbe, co-editor-in-chief, earned a ranking of excellence in news writing at the conference. Olson, copy editor, staff writer, and edi-torial cartoonist, earned an honorable mention in editori-al cartooning. Morehouse-Ol-son informed the board that in two years, the conference will be held in Minneapolis and her students were asked to help in the planning of the event.
Student Report
St. Francis High School stu-dents Dylan Sowers and Jakki Thompson highlighted events happening at the high school.
During the December 5 girls basketball game against Du-luth East, Melissa Borstner scored 37 points during the game, a personal best. The StarTribune named her Ath-lete of the Week.
The Saints boys hockey game against East Ridge on De-cember 3 was televised on Fox Sports North. During the game, Joey Benik scored a hat
trick. He was named KARE 11 Athlete of the Week.
A spaghetti dinner benefit was held December 18 to help Alex Baluff’s family. Bal-uff was involved in a serious accident this past fall. There was Bowling for Baluff held after the dinner at Patriot Lanes.
Superintendent Report
Superintendent Ed Saxton presented board member Renee Lipinski with a plaque commending her four years of service to the district. Lipinski reflected on her ten-ure and sited mixed emotions about leaving the board. She is glad her children are stu-dents in the district.
The Minnesota Department of Education requested SFHS be a site for a meeting about Race to the Top, a federally funded program. Awards in Race to the Top will go to states that are leading the way with ambitious yet achiev-able plans for implementing coherent, compelling, and comprehensive education re-form. Each state must apply by January 13, 2010 and will be notified in April if they were awarded dollars.
Truth in Taxation
Director of the ISD 15 Busi-ness Office Mae Hawkins presented the Truth in Taxa-tion information during the board meeting. A Power-Point presentation analyzed the 2009-10 budget informa-tion and the 2008-09 audited financial information.
Technology Integration
Collin Minshull, Technology Integration Specialist, spoke about helping teachers blend technology into their classroom lessons. Minshull is the go-to-guy for teachers who need help with technology. Students are excited to have it in the classroom and truly benefit from the experience.
in separate traffic-related ac-cidents. I’ve watched district employees help co-workers and their families, whose lives were affected by health issues or lost property due to fire. I have also watched peo-ple taking it upon themselves to help others less fortunate during the holiday season. This is beside what other lo-cal organized groups such as the Lions Club and Jaycees already donate to our com-munity.
A quote from writer Robert Allen states, “In our hectic, fast-paced, consumer-driven society, it’s common to feel overwhelmed, isolated, and alone. Many are re-discover-ing the healing and empower-ing role that community can bring to our lives. The sense of belonging we feel when we make the time to take an ac-tive role in our communities can give us a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.”
As 2010 progresses, I hope you have time to take an ac-tive role in your community. If you’re a parent of a student, please take time to be active with the school district and your child’s education. I hope all of you have a good 2010.
out-going district 15 school board member Renee Lipinski (left) received a recognition plaque for her four-year service from Superintendent ed Saxton at her last official board meeting on december 14. The Courier�Photo
Need up to date news and information on
District 15?Visit the newly redesigned
district web site at www.st.francis.k12.mn.us.
Alerts, news, calendars, staff directory, and
much more.
Independent School District 15
Submitted by CriSten PorterHomeowner Training & engagemenT, Twin CiTies HabiTaT for HumaniTy
Robert and Amy Chavez and their family have recently been matched and begun their partnership with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity (TCHFH) through the Hab-
itat Homeownership Program. The home they will be purchas-ing is the first Twin Cities Habitat home built in St. Francis.
The Chavez family is looking forward to purchasing their Hab-itat home because it will provide them a stable, healthy and peaceful environment for their family as well as an opportunity for their family to become connected to the St. Francis commu-nity and with other Habitat homeowners.
Robert works for Target Corporation in Minneapolis and Amy is working part-time with New Life Church. And as a fam-ily they will spend time working on homes that have been matched to other families in the Homeownership program, and they will hopefully have an opportunity to work on the second TCHFH home that will begin in St. Francis.
There are plans to begin building a second TCHFH home in St. Francis in late spring/early summer. Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is working with St. Francis United Methodist church to connect families in St. Francis to the Habitat homeowner-ship program. If your family is interested in applying for the homeownership program through TCHFH, contact the main office at 612-331-4090 to register for an upcoming homeownership exploration session.
Visit www.tchabitat.org for online information
Community & Business13www.THe-Courier.org THe Courier |January 2010
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Broasted Chicken DinnerSt. Francis American Legion 3073 Bridge Street, St. Francis763-753-4234Sponsored by the St. Francis American Legion Auxiliary Unit 622
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Family matched to the first Habitat for Humanity home built in St. Francis
the Chavez family are looking forward to moving into their new home, the first twin Cities Habitat home built in St. Francis.
submiTTed pHoTo
Finding opportunities in challenging times
Submitted by martHa WeaverpubliC informaTion manager,
The Anoka County Board of Commission-ers is proposing a 2010
budget of $257.8 million, a decrease of nearly 4.4 per-cent from the 2009 adopted budget. The resulting coun-ty property tax levy will be $122.17 million, a reduction of $406,000 from the proposed levy adopted in September.
The process of preparing the 2010 budget began more than a year ago when Board Chair Dennis Berg directed depart-ments to begin identifying ar-eas where cuts could be made while keeping core services intact. More than $4 million worth of cuts were identified and adopted by the Board of Commissioners for 2009 to offset $3.6 million in reduced state aid due to unallotment. There were several challenges in the process of streamlin-ing services for 2010, includ-ing the addition of operating costs for the new Public Safety Center, the likelihood that an additional $3.2 million in state aid will be unallotted, and a new state mandate requiring metro counties to bear the cost of medical transportation services.
Some departments such as the medical examiner, libraries, and license centers have re-duced hours, but continue to provide service. The sagging economy, combined with the unallotment of state aid, has increased pressure on staff. However, leaving vacant positions open longer has helped minimize the num-ber of layoffs. The number of full time employees (FTE) at Anoka County in 2010 will be nearly identical to the num-ber of FTEs in 2001, although the County’s population has grown by more than 10 per-cent in that same time frame according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
“I have been energized by this entire process and the op-portunity it has presented to reshape county government and focus on our core respon-sibilities,” said Board Chair Dennis Berg. “The lagging economy has caused contrac-tors and vendors to roll back prices, which, coupled with the County’s AAA credit rat-ing from Standard & Poor’s, has provided us with tremen-dous opportunities for sav-ings on some of our biggest projects, including technol-ogy upgrades at our libraries and road projects.”
2010 will be a big year for rehabilitation of existing roadways, with more than $5 million targeted for the
annual overlay program and $450,000 for bridge mainte-nance, crack sealing, signal painting, and rail crossing repairs. With the assistance of federal stimulus monies, proj-ects that were delayed in 2009 will be built in 2010, includ-ing upgrading the bridge and interchange at Main Street (CSAH 14) and I-35E in Lino Lakes. This project includes safety, as well as capacity im-provements for the entire in-terchange and ramps.
The Anoka County Regional Railroad Authority levy de-creased by nearly 10 percent and Northstar, the state’s first commuter rail line, began op-eration November 16, 2009. Combining the county and
rail levy, and assuming a mar-ket value decrease of 7.8 per-cent, an Anoka County home, now valued at $209,300, down from $227,010 last year, will experience a property tax in-crease of 1.53 percent, or less than one dollar per month.
On average, residential home values in Anoka County de-creased 7.8 percent. Commer-cial and industrial property values decreased an average of 3.2 percent.
In the midst of the recession, Anoka County has main-tained its excellent Moody’s rating and earned a AAA credit rating from Standard & Poor’s. The AAA rating is given to less than 1 percent of rated entities.
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14 THe Courier | January 2010 www.THe-Courier.orgCommunity
evenTs, fundraisers, benefiTs
55+ Driver Improvement Program Offered
The Minnesota Highway Safety Center will be offering a 55+ Driver Improvement Course on the following days:
4-Hour Refresher CourseAnoka Tech College
AnokaFebruary 17 –OR– March 24
5:00-9:00 p.m.Andover Senior Center
Anoka/AndoverJanuary 27 • 6:00-10:00 p.m.
Nowthen Alliance Church Anoka
January 27 –OR– February 24–OR– March 29
11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.Anoka Senior Center
AnokaFebruary 26
1:00-5:00 p.m.National Sports Center/
SCHWAN CenterBlaine
January 18 –OR– February 1510:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Trinity Lutheran ChurchSt. Francis
February 25 –OR– March 295:30-9:30 p.m.
8-Hour Full CourseTrinity Lutheran Church
St. Francis January 26 & 28
5:30-9:30 p.m.Anoka Tech College
AnokaJanuary 20 • 5:00-9:00 p.m. &
January 23 • 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Anoka Senior Center
AnokaMarch 24 & 261:00-5:00 p.m.
Connexus EnergyAnoka/Ramsey
February 10 & 11Noon-4:00 p.m.
Andover Senior CenterAnoka/Andover
February 23 & 24 • 5:30-9:30 p.m.–OR–
March 30 & 31 • 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.National Sports Center/
SCHWAN Center Blaine
February 13 • 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
The Driver Improvement course is open to the public; however, pre-registration is requested. A MN Highway Safety & Research Center certified instructor teaches this class. Driver safety, confidence and comfort are enhanced by utilizing the most up-to-date research in the field, including the latest visual scanning and steering techniques, anti-lock braking (ABS) skills, airbag information, driver distraction, road rage and new vehicle technology.Persons age 55 and older who complete the course qualify for a 10% discount on their auto insurance premiums for three years, according to Minnesota law. First time participants must complete an eight-hour course. Repeat persons are required to take a four hour refresher course. Approximate savings of $300.
For more information or to register call toll free 1-888-234-1294
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noWtHen LionS
Nowthen Lions announces their 2nd Annual Pancake Breakfast. Mark your cal-endar for Saturday, January 23. Pancakes will be served from 8:00 a.m. until noon at Nowthen Alliance Church, 19653 Nowthen Boulevard in Nowthen. The cost of the event is a free-will donation. All of the money raised dur-ing this fundraiser will be used for projects within the city of Nowthen. There will also be free health screening (9:00 a.m.-noon) and free ac-tivities for kids. For more in-formation, please call Brad at 612-290-3594 or Larry at 763-257-4967. For information about joining the Nowthen Lions, please call George at 763-350-8513.
Food diStribution miniStry
Food will be distributed to anyone who shows up on the second Saturday of the month at 10:00 a.m. Food will be distributed from the Isanti Community Center, 121 Norelius Street in Isanti. Sponsored by Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors—the people of the United Methodist Church. For more information, call 763-413-6896 or 763-269-1548.
Free CLaSS on budgeting
Anoka County Extension Staff and Dollar Works Vol-unteers will present a free Dollars into Sense class on Tuesday, January 19, at 10:00 a.m. at the Bunker Hills Ac-tivities Center (550 Bunker Lake Blvd, Andover) and again at 7:00 p.m. at the Blaine Human Services Cen-ter (1201 89th Ave, 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 budget-ing and address credit issues, tracking expenses, making a spending plan, goal setting and how to get help.
Long LaKe imProvement aSSoCiation
Long Lake Improvement As-sociation is sponsoring an ice fishing contest on Saturday, February 6 on Long Lake in Isanti. Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. at Captain’s on Long Lake. See ad on page 17 for more details.
Land oF LaKeS CHoirboyS
Land of Lakes Choirboys are holding auditions for boys ages 5-12 now. Call 763-213-8105 for more information.
Senate diStriCt 48 dFL PreCinCt CauCuSeS
Tuesday, February 2 7:00 p.m.
At the caucuses, DFLers will cast a gubernatorial-prefer-ence ballot that will deter-mine how Minnesota’s del-egates to the state convention in April are allocated among the gubernatorial candidates. They will also debate resolu-tions that any caucus attend-ee may introduce for possible inclusion into the Minnesota DFL Party’s platform, elect precinct chairs for the next two years, and select del-egates for the upcoming dis-trict convention on March 16, 2010 at 7:00 at Anoka High School. Anyone who will be eligible to vote in Minnesota by November 2, 2010 may vote at the caucus. For more information, contact Dolores Voorhees at 763-753-8611.
Locations
East Bethel Community Ctr 2241 221st Street NE Bethel, MN 55011
Oak Grove City Hall 19900 NW Nightingale Oak Grove, MN 55011
Nowthen City Hall 19800 Nowthen Blvd. NW Nowthen, MN 55303
Anoka High School 3939 North 7th Avenue Anoka, MN 55303
Ramsey Elementary School 15000 Nowthen Blvd. Anoka, MN 55303
Elk River High School 900 School Street Elk River, MN 55330
on december 6, the Coon rapids vFW hall was crowded with families of eager children for the annual Children’s Christmas Party. the event targets the children and grandchildren of vFW members and the families of deployed troops. there were games, contests, and lots of food, but the highlight was the visit from Santa (mike King of andover). accompanied by mrs. Claus (maria King), Santa took requests for everything from cheese to a jet airplane. each child went home with a stuffed animal and a gift bag from Santa, courtesy of the Coon rapids vFW. Sienna
St. Francis Lioness, Lions, and friends celebrated another success-ful year. this holiday season, the group gave gifts to needy fami-lies, fruit boxes and a cheerful “we care” to area senior citizens, and hosted breakfast with Santa. the St. Francis Lioness and Lions thank all who came to enjoy the day and help, especially relatives and friends and the St. Francis ambassadors, a very spe-cial group of young ladies. the St. Francis Lioness and Lions wish everyone a very happy and healthy new year.
submiTTed pHoTo
vanbellinger, granddaughter of roger and mary Kay Kath of Coon rapids, gives Santa a big hug. submiTTed pHoTo
Resolution ideas to considerEach and every New Year, mil-lions of people resolve to make positive changes in their life. Known as New Year’s resolu-tions, these ideas or commit-ments can fall by the wayside or prove to be a positive life-changing experience. Some of the more popular resolution ideas include:
Lose weight
Save more and spend less
Visit a foreign country
Volunteer to help the less fortunate
Start (or finish) writing that novel
Quit smoking tobacco
Be more environmentally-friendly
Reduce stress
Spend more time with the family
Read more, watch less television
What’s on your list?
15www.THe-Courier.org THe Courier | January 2010 Below Zero
Window Condensation…Are Your Windows Sending You a Message?
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Show ‘Old Man Winter’ who’s boss, with preventive vehicle maintenance.
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New home… New beginningsPeoples Bank of Commerce was awarded rural homeownership
funding totaling $50,000. This grant money can be used to provide down payment, closing cost, counseling, or rehabilitation assistance for our customers.
Tax credit for “move up” purchasers of up to $6,500.
First Time Homebuyers tax credit available up to $8,000.
Brandon KarolevitzMortgage Loan Offi cer • 763-807-9221
www.e-peoplesbank.com234 East First Ave., Cambridge MN 55008
21420 Aberdeen Street • East Bethel
New home… New beginningsNew home… New beginnings
Call or stop by today.
Shepherds Choice
® YARN SHOP2010 2nd Ave. N, Downtown Anoka • 763-434-7453Hours: T•W•F 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Th 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
www.shepherdschoice.com
Drop-In Knit Night! – Every Thursday evening, 6-8 p.m.Please visit us in the store or at our web site to
learn about upcoming classes.
Winter FunJanuary Programs in anoka County Parks
Submitted by JenniFer FinKmarkeTing & CommuniCaTions manager, anoka CounTy parks & reCreaTion deparTmenT
Indoors or out, there are plen-ty of fun activities to try in Anoka County parks, ranging from cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to indoor as-tronomy and birding classes.
Ski by the Light of the Moon
Enjoy the beautiful cross-country ski trails at Chomo-nix Golf Course under a full moon. After skiing we will gather for dinner around the fi replace. This event is open to skiers of all ages and abili-ties. A limited supply of skis is available for rental. The program includes skiing and dinner. Pre-registration is re-quired. Fee: $12/adult and $8/child (plus tax). Saturday, January 30; 6:00-9:00 p.m. at Chomonix Golf Course in Lino Lakes.
Learn to Cross-Country Ski
Learn how to cross-country ski in one of Anoka County’s most beautiful parks. Cross-country skiing is a lifelong activity for people of all ages and abilities. The activity fee includes ski rental, instruc-tion, and cross-country ski-ing. No experience necessary. Maximum of 10 participants. Pre-registration is required. Fee: $15/adult and $10/youth ages 8-12 years old (plus tax).
Times and locations offered:
Saturday, January 16; 10:00 a.m.-noon, Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, Coon Rapids
Saturday, January 16; 2:00-4:00 p.m., Bunker Hills Campground Visitor Center, Coon Rapids
10th Annual Snow Day
The Anoka County Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with the Lino Lakes and Blaine Parks and Recreation Departments, is pleased to present the 10th annual Snow Day event. Par-ticipants of all ages will have the opportunity to partake in a variety of activities includ-ing snow shoeing, ice fi shing, kick-sledding, cross-country skiing, winter crafts, live ani-mal displays, and more. This is a free event, open to the public. Come and play in the snow! For more information call the Wargo Nature Cen-ter at 651-429-8007. Saturday, January 30; 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes.
Searching for the Stars
Join us for this family astron-omy series to learn about the night sky in all its splendor! We will use telescopes and hands-on activities outside to learn about the stars, sun, moon, planets, and dark sky objects. Class will take place regardless of weather. Class is appropriate for ages 7 and older accompanied by an adult. Each family will re-ceive a FREE Galileoscope telescope by attending two out of the three sessions. Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.ano-kacountyparks.com or call 651-429-8007. Fee: Each ses-sion: $4/adult, $2/youth (plus tax).
Thursday, January 14; 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes
Thursday, February 11; 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes
Thursday, March 11; 6:30- 8:00 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes
Women’s Tracking and Snowshoeing Class
Join us for tracking instruc-tion before heading out on snowshoes to explore the habitat and wildlife found in the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park Reserve in the north metro area. We’ll look for otters, red fox, deer, mink, and all of our feathered win-ter friends before warming up around the fi re with a hot beverage and some goodies at the Wargo Nature Center. Pre-registration is required through the Department of Natural Resources by calling 218-833-8628. Fee: $15/per-son. Sunday, January 17; 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes.
Winter Bird Walk
It is time to begin your 2010 bird list. January birding does not produce the longest bird lists but it does provide an opportunity to spot our visiting winter birds. We will explore two sites near the Wargo Nature Center. Ap-propriate for ages 10 and up. Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.ano-kacountyparks.com or call 651-429-8007. Fee: $4/person (plus tax). Saturday, Janu-ary 9; 9:00-11:00 a.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes.
new skating rink opens in oak groveSubmitted by CaLLi SigFriniuSsT. franCis youTH HoCkey assoCiaTion
Paul Wolfe, a St. Francis Youth Hockey Association board member and city of Oak Grove resident, proposed an outdoor skating rink to the city months ago. Wolfe spent
many hours researching and gathering information to present to the city.
The outdoor rink is a collaboration between the city and the youth hockey association. The hockey association is responsi-ble for the building and maintenance of the rink. The St. Francis Youth Hockey Association (SFYHA) raised $5000 for building the rink. The youth hockey teams will have scheduled practices at the rink and there will also be many hours available for open hockey.
A rink building day was held and over 20 association volun-teers showed up to assemble the boards around the rink. The volunteers were supplied with coffee from Caribou Coffee in Ramsey and donuts from St. Francis County Market. Wolfe has spent numerous hours putting on the fi nishing touches.
Outdoor recreation is a part of our community. The well-main-tained outdoor rink in St. Francis is busy every day of the week. The rink in Oak Grove will provide another great opportunity for the community to enjoy skating. The rink offi cially opened on December 16 and is located on the south side of the Oak Grove City Hall.
16 THe Courier | January 2010 www.THe-Courier.orgBelow Zero
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try our “tasty” lunch buffEt!
Monday-Friday 11:00 am-2:00 pm
St. John Lutheran Church welcomes you to our monthly dinner
AT THE GAMEDelicious homemade tailgate foods
Saturday, January 30 • 4:00-8:00 p.m.Doors open at 4:00 p.m., serving from 4:30-7:00 p.m.
DJ until 8:00 p.m. by JT EntertainmentTickets for the dinner are available
at the church or at the door. Adults $8 ($10 at door)Children 6-12 $4 ($5 at door)5 and under FREE
Questions, please call the church office at 763-441-3646
www.SJLCAS.netSt. John Lutheran Church is located one mile west of
Nowthen on Viking Blvd. (CR 22). From Elk River, follow Twin Lakes Road (CR 13) to Viking Blvd. (CR 22) and
go east one mile.
See you there!
Nowthen Lions
1st AnnuAl Ice FIshIng contestsaturday, February 6
east twin lakeRegistration at 9:00 a.m.
Contest starts at 11:00 a.m. sharp!
Final weigh-in is 2:00 p.m.
Prizes for 3 largest fish caught $250, $100, & $50
Door Prizes throughout the event • Kids Prizes Same Day Raffle • Hot Food and Drinks
Tickets are $10 per hole and available presale and on the lake. No portable ice houses, coolers or glass containers please.
Complete set of rules available at the weigh-in table.Contact Randy or Josie Bettinger at 763-753-4962 or at
[email protected] for more information.This event is a fundraiser for the
Nowthen Lions Club.Look for parking signs at the lake.
Special assistance available for those in need.
by mary a. SPiveyCommuniTy eduCaTion CoordinaTor, Cedar Creek eCosysTem sCienCe reserve
When warm temperatures go south along with the sand-hill cranes, some animals remain to continue a life-as-usual routine even though the ground is covered in snow. Which animals remain, which head out, and why? The answers to these ques-tions are found in the study of ecology, or how living or-ganisms interact with their surroundings, as well as with a handful of remote cameras and lots of eyes!
First, it is necessary to deter-mine which organisms stick around in winter. A pair of eyes and time outdoors are good choices for this project. The annual Audubon Christ-mas Bird Count is one way to observe resident birds. The oldest citizen science endeav-or in the world, the Christmas Count involves people sim-ply observing the birds pres-ent in a given area on a given day and reporting their find-ings to Audubon. The result is an extensive database used by scientists the world over to gain insight into the distribu-tion, behavior, and status of winter bird populations.
Results for the 2009 count are still under analysis, but reports from the 2008 Cedar Creek count showed 36 spe-cies sighted, including record numbers of wild turkey and cardinals, many chickadees and juncos, and five sightings of red-headed woodpeckers. Birds that remain in northern climes have adapted physi-cal, physiological, and be-havioral ways to endure the season. As an example, resi-dent red-headed woodpeck-ers feed on acorns and insects
they stashed in tree cavities before the snows fell. Like woodpeckers, seed-eating chickadees and nuthatches also cache seeds and supple-ment their winter foraging by frequent visits to area bird feeders. To stay warm, they fluff their feathers to trap more air that, in turn, acts as an insulator. Birds can also develop a layer of fat as a food store, concentrate their blood supply around the body core, shiver to stay warm, and re-duce their physical activity which in turn reduces their metabolic needs.
Two birds that migrate, common loons and sandhill cranes, eat fish and other in-sects that are not available in winter when lakes and marshes are covered in ice. Their bodies cannot tolerate the downward shift in tem-peratures and they are forced to relocate to warmer areas to survive. All animals survive within a certain range of tem-peratures; if an area becomes hotter or colder than the nor-mal range, the animal must find an area with compatible conditions to ensure survival.
Birds in the wild are fairly easy to observe when com-pared with mammals. Elu-sive by instinct, mammals are usually wary of man. Also, as warm-blooded creatures, mammals require a lot of food to keep a constant internal temperature and therefore need a larger chunk of land to find this food. Mammals tend to be more spread out than birds—and that makes them more challenging to count.
How can a mammal count be made?
Enter Dawn Tanner, a PhD student in the University of Minnesota Conservation Bi-ology Program. Part of her thesis involves the use of remote cameras and baits to attract animals. She can get a picture snapped and develop an inventory of mammals present in the area.
Mammals survive in winter because their bodies main-tain a stable inner tempera-ture. As long as they find enough food to fuel the inter-nal combustion process, they will survive. Adaptations to help survival include thick fur coats, dens in trees or un-derground, and the ability to concentrate blood flow to the chest and abdomen while limiting it to the legs, ears, and tail.
Cedar Creek Ecosystem Sci-ence Reserve is a 5400 acre ecological research site in central Minnesota with natu-ral habitats that represent the entire state. Cedar Creek is owned and operated by the University of Minnesota in cooperation with the Minne-sota Academy of Science.
Through research, conserva-tion, and education, Cedar Creek will continue to bridge the gaps between science, community, and govern-ment.
black-capped chickadeepHoTo by Jim williams
Who sticks around in winter?
a raccoon and deer wandered into the camera’s range.
pHoTos by dawn Tanner
Check out all there is to do in Minnesota’s winter wonderland. Get travel information on Minnesota,
including lodging, attractions, events, free brochures and more by visiting www.exploreminnesota.com. The Explore
Minnesota web site is a great resource to find outdoor activities, as well as shopping, theater, indoor water parks
and more. Minnesota winters offer many great opportunities —look within this site for all kinds of ideas!
17www.THe-Courier.org THe Courier | January 2010 Below Zero
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EKO BACKEN22570 Manning Trail, Scandia, MN
6 miles east of Forest Lakewww.ekobacken.com • 651-433-2422
Testimonial of Satisfi ed Customers:We had our family Christmas party at Eko Backen last year. Everyone had such a great time! Big and li� le kids both! They all want to come back! I will tell you we had LOTS of conversations telling people how much fun we had. What a great family place. We will pray for nice winter weather. It was next to perfect last year.
Tom and Becky Webster, WI
Ice Fishing Contest
Saturday, February 6 on Long Lake in Isanti
Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. at Captain’s on Long Lake
$10 cost per pre-drilled holeTh e fi shing contest will be held inside a roped-off area on Long Lake.
Contest begins at 11:00 a.m. and runs until 2:00 p.m. Largest game fi sh: $300 (must be Minnesota DNR game fi sh) Most fi sh caught: $200 (minimum 3 fi sh of any species) Smallest game fi sh: $50 (must be Minnesota DNR game fi sh) First bullhead: $50
Ice � shing prizes awarded at Captain’s at approximately 3:00 p.m. All money prizes will be issued.
Raffle $1 per ticket First Prize: New Eskimo ice auger Second Prize: Eskimo Portable Fish House Th ird Prize: 4 tickets to Minnesota Twins home game Fourth Prize: $50 gift certifi cate at Captain’s on Long Lake
Th e raffl e drawing to be held at Captain’s at 3:30 p.m. (Need not be present to win)
Drive 5 miles north of St. Francis on Hwy 47, turn right on 277th to Long Lake.
Th is is a fundraiser for the Long Lake Improvement Association.
Hwy 47 & Pederson DriveSt. Francis, MN
763-753-4577
HOURSSun 11:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m.Mon-Th 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.Fri 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.Sat 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
$300 Off Any X-Large Pizza2 or more toppings
St. Francis Mansetti’s OnlyNot valid with any other specials or coupons.
763-753-4577 Expires 2/2/10.
FREE SODAwith purchase of lunch buffet
Valid on Dine-In St. Francis Mansetti’s OnlyNot valid with any other specials or coupons.
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$150 Off Any Pasta Dinner Featuring Lasagna, Chicken Alfredo, Rigatoni or SpaghettiValid on Dine-In St. Francis Mansetti’s OnlyNot valid with any other specials or coupons.
763-753-4577 Expires 2/2/10.
We Deliver Premium Pizza to You!
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6th Annual CUSTOMER
APPRECIATION SPAGHETTI NIGHT
Tuesday, January 19 • 5:00 p.m.-CloseSpaghetti only $199
Fun in the SnowIce fi shing LicensesBait TackleRentals HardwareShovels SledsSmall engine Snowblowersand equipment repairBird seed and houses
763-753-1265 Fax 763-753-0350
Main Street • St. Francis
Fun In The Snow
Submitted by moniCa CamPbeLL anoka CounTy library
Bundle up for winter and spend some cold dark nights with a good book or two! Winter Jackets,
Anoka County Library’s winter reading program for adults, runs through Febru-ary 28. Celebrate reading this winter by participating in Winter Jackets and add even more enjoyment to your reading!
Participants in Winter Jackets receive a bookmark and a short review form to complete about a book they’ve read during the program. When submitted, the review form serves as an entry into a prize drawing for Barnes & Noble gift cards. All library users ages 17 and older are encouraged to participate.
In celebration of reading this winter, Anoka County Library will have visits from must-read local authors Jim Bruton, Mary Jan-ice Davidson, Brian Freeman, and Julie Kramer. These events are free and open to the public. Join in the Winter Jackets fun and meet some of Minnesota’s talented authors.
“We take so little time for ourselves these days that the simple act of reading a book can be both tranquil and refreshing,” said Anoka County Commissioner and Library Liaison Jim Kor-diak. “We need to recognize the importance of taking care of ourselves, and reading a book is not only educational, but also refreshing and rewarding.”
For more information about Winter Jackets or other library pro-grams, call 763-717-3267 or visit your local Anoka County Li-brary or the web site at www.anoka.lib.mn.us.
Submitted by JenniFer FinKanoka CounTy parks & reCreaTion deparTmenT
Join other women in experi-encing the great outdoors by participating in one or more of the following activities. This series of programs is de-signed for women and is in collaboration with the Min-nesota Department of Natu-ral Resources’ “Becoming an Outdoors Woman” Program. Each session includes light refreshments, the use of top-of-the-line equipment, expert instruction, and the chance to experience the beauty of sev-eral Anoka County Parks in the north metro area. Space is limited to allow for hands-on instruction and is geared for women 15 years and older. Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.ano-kacountyparks.com or call 651-429-8007.
Women’s outdoor adventure series off ered Astronomy
We’ll explore the night sky and all its wonders. Each par-ticipant will receive a FREE high quality Galileoscope telescope. Fee: $15/person
(plus tax). Sunday, Janu-ary 24; 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes.
ConTinued on page 18» adventure SerieS
18 THe Courier | January 2010 www.THe-Courier.orgBelow Zero
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Jennings, DeWan & Anderson, LLC
A Full Service Law Firm practicing in the areas ofBusiness, Real Estate, Personal Injury, Auto Accidents and Death Claims, Divorce and Family Law, Criminal, DWI, Probate, and Estate Planning.
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Joseph W. Anderson, SF ‘68Certified Real Property Law Specialist
Mark N. Jennings
Daniel P. DeWanFamily and Civil Law Mediator
3296 NW Bridge Street St. Francis, Minnesota 55070
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Oak Ridge Auto Body Inc.
23428 Hwy. 65 NE2 Blks S of CR 24 on Hwy 65
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from page 17adventure SerieS
Winter Sampler
This is a great opportunity to sample a variety of win-ter recreation activities. All equipment is provided. Try your hand at cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, Nor-wegian kick-sledding and ice fi shing. Fee: $15/person (plus tax). Sunday, Febru-ary 21; 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes.
Making Maple Syrup
Learn how to turn maple sap into delicious maple syrup. We will cover identifying which tree to tap, and all the steps involved in tapping, evaporating, cooking, and tasting the fi nal product. Fee: $15/person (plus tax). Sun-day, March 14; 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes.
Birding and Brunch
We’ll spend the morning in the beautiful Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area watching for spring migrants and then enjoy a gourmet brunch. Binoculars provided. Fee: $15/person (plus tax).
Sunday, April 25; 8:00-10:00 a.m. at the Carlos Avery Wildlife Refuge, Forest Lake.
did you know?In 1886, Saint Paul was Amer-ica’s fastest growing city. Growing to 120,000 residents in 1886, Saint Paul had also become America’s third larg-est rail center. To celebrate their city’s success, Saint Paul business leaders produced the inaugural Saint Paul Win-ter Carnival, which was held during the fi rst two weeks of February in 1886.
In addition to showcas-ing Saint Paul, the business leaders wanted to disprove a New York newspaper re-porter who had described their beloved city as “another Siberia, unfi t for human habi-tation in the winter.”
Patterned after Montreal’s Winter Carnival, the fi rst Saint Paul Winter Carnival included parades, skiing, snowshoeing, a blanket toss-ing contest, and push ball, a game played with giant balls. The most successful attrac-tions were its ice castle and six large toboggan slides.
Throughout its 122-year his-tory, the Saint Paul Winter Carnival has been an integral part of the social fabric of Saint Paul.
This year, the 2010 Winter Carnival, the Coolest Cel-ebration on Earth, will take place January 21-31 at loca-tions all around downtown Saint Paul and surrounding areas. Visit www.winter-car-nival.com for details on some great family winter fun.
erik James Stitt received the rank of eagle Scout from troop 418 on august 17, 2009 after com-pleting a baseball fi eld and backstop project for Cedar united methodist Church. erik and many volunteers spent more than 400 work hours on his project. He raised more than $1700 through fundraising and donations to be able to com-plete the project. erik was honored at a Court of Honor Ceremony on december 19. Pictured with him are his parents, don and Julie Stitt from oak grove. submiTTed pHoTo
Scouting is strong in our community
Congratulations to matthew billings on achiev-ing his eagle Scout rank. billings is a senior at St. Francis High School and a member of St. Francis boy Scout troop 511 which is chartered by the St. Francis Lions. in addition to the boy Scouts of america required rank advance-ments and merit badges, billings raised funds and coordinated the construction of over 135 blankets for the Linus Project. to join troop 511, please contact Committee Chair diane ra-cette at 763-444-4192. submiTTed pHoTo
Paramedic Paul nei (left) demonstrates the Heimlich maneuver to the Webelos of Pack 521 to help them earn their readyman badge. if your son is interested in joining the fun and education of Cub Scout Pack 521, contact Sim-one Cole at 763-753-8661. submiTTed pHoTo
Cub Scout Packs 167 & 521 announce a Pancake Breakfast & Silent Auction to be held Saturday, March 6.
these scout groups joined together to form a group called “Scouts Serving Seniors”. the group visits nursing homes to entertain the residents throughout the year. the fi rst visit was to epiphany nurs-ing Home last Halloween. Pictured above, back row (L-r): John Paul Smith, aaron emmerick, nick Zinniel, tom doebbert, Joey gehrke, noah Holzer, asia Kolodjski, Scott Postema from Cub Scout Pack 167; front row (L-r): avaree Saunders, isabella brown, angie Knies, elizabeth green, and Sierra Kolodjski from girl Scout troop (not pictured is Lilly gehrke). submiTTed pHoTo
19www.THe-Courier.org THe Courier | January 2010 Community
leTTers To THe ediTor
leTTers To THe ediTor poliCy
The 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.
A 55+ rental housing community offering comfort and convenience at an affordable rate
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Less than 5 minutes from St. Francis and 15 minutes to Riverdale in Coon Rapids.
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We would like to thank everyone who showed their kindness, love, and support in this time of need. Whether it was plan-ning the benefit, making a donation, attending or offering your much needed support and prayers, it was greatly appreciated. To those of you who don’t even know us, your kindness has been very overwhelming. Because of all of you, the benefit was a great success. We couldn’t have asked for a better turnout. We are very blessed to have all of you in our lives to help us through this difficult time. We hope that someday, your kind-ness can be repaid. In the end, I just want to make sure that people do understand that it did mean a lot. It really did. All of your support, thoughts and prayers are sincerely appreciated. mark & miCHelle sHulTz and family
Submitted by dave JoHnSon, mSWassisTanT Twin CiTies soCial serviCes direCTor
Thanks to all the volunteers that helped out this holiday sea-son. Here are some final numbers as a result of our Twin Cit-ies Toy Shops in St. Paul, Minneapolis, Dakota County, Scott County, and our Roseville locations.
Children served: 32,240
Households served: 12,102
Total persons served: 44,342
Number of volunteers who assisted: 1,708
Number of volunteer hours given: 7,061
The Salvation Army is a world-wide Christian organization that serves people’s needs in 118 countries. In Minnesota, the Salvation Army has 25 locations in the ten-county metro area that includes churches, corps, social services, thrift stores, etc. For more information, visit www.thesalarmy.org.
Helping out in the community has many rewards as the staff of The Courier experienced in december. Pictured (L-r) Kathleen miller, alicia Loehlein, and Pat Johnson spent an afternoon helping set up the Salvation army’s toy Shop at the minneapolis armory. the giant red kettle in the parking lot was custom-made and donated to the Salvation army. the courier pHoTo
The season for community serviceHoliday coloring contest winners announcedSubmitted by aLiCia LoeHLeinsT. franCis area CHamber of CommerCe
The St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce held its second annual children’s holiday coloring contest in December. The contest was open to chil-dren ages 4-12. Prizes were awarded for first, second and third place in three age cat-egories. Entries were posted at McDonald’s and County Market in St. Francis. Below are names of the winners:
Ages 4-6
Arthur Negus, age 4 Brady Deibeit, age 5 McKenna Littlewolf, age 6
Ages 7-9
Maruka Padillor, age 7 Jacob Deibeit, age 8 Ashley Brooks, age 9
Ages 10-12
Kimika Padilla, age 10 Dana Neumann, age 11 Anthony Norman, age 12
Thank you to the many area businesses who donated prizes: Village Bank, McDonald’s, Subway, Mansetti’s, Almost Anything, East Bethel Theatres, and Hong Kong Delight.
Sno-ghost member earl Collins raffled off his 12 ponytails to be cut by members of the Sno-ghosts Snowmobile Club to raise money for Locks of Love on november 10. not only did he do-nate 13" of hair to be made into wigs for those in need, he was able to raise over $200 to donate as well. For more infor-mation about Locks of Love, visit www.locksoflove.org. For information regarding the Sno-ghosts, visit www.sno-ghosts.com. Pictured above is earl Collins and Jennifer Jen-sen, cutting off one of Collins’ ponytails. submiTTed pHoTo
name the Lazy river and win season passesThis year, Bunker Beach Wa-ter Park will feature six tow-ering water slides, a 900-foot lazy river, an activity pool with climbing wall, a zero-entry pool with a water play structure, a creative sand play area, and, of course, Minnesota’s largest outdoor wave pool!
Some of the newest attrac-tions have already received suitable monikers: Twisted Towers (four water slides); Splash Cove (two new wa-ter slides that empty into the lazy river); The Sand Box (interactive sand play areas); Rocky Bay (new activity pool with water basketball and 10-
foot climbing wall); and the Tidal Wave Café and Break-ers Snack Shack (concessions areas). However, the new lazy river feature still needs a name!
So get creative. The Anoka County Parks and Recre-ation Department invites you to submit your ideas for the Name the Lazy River con-test by January 30. If your idea is selected, you will win two season passes to Bunker Beach. The winning name will be chosen by a panel of Parks Department employ-ees. Winners will be notified by February 28.
Enter to win by emailing your name, address, and lazy river name idea to [email protected]. You also may send your ideas to Anoka County Parks Department, attention: Lazy River Contest, 550 Bun-ker Lake Blvd. NW, Andover, MN 55304.
20 THe Courier | January 2010 www.THe-Courier.orgBusiness & Realty
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Financial fi tness opportunity Submitted by reverend tiFFany mCdonaLdsT. franCis uniTed meTHodisT CHurCH
The University of Minnesota Extension will be offering a free Financial Fitness class in St. Francis as part of an impact study. Those who participate in the study will re-
ceive gifts cards to County Market worth $50. The series of four classes will be held Tuesday evenings, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the St. Francis United Methodist Church. Dates are January 26, Febru-ary 2, 9, and 16. The class is open to St. Francis area individuals and families, ages 18 and older, who can attend all four class sessions and complete the written surveys.
“The classes will cover basic fi nancial management and will be helpful to anyone, no matter what their current fi nancial situ-ation is,” says Tiffany McDonald, pastor of St. Francis United Methodist Church. Topics for the class include making money decisions, building money management skills, spending and saving, and understanding credit and debt. This impact study is being conducted by the University of Minnesota Extension Services and the Department of Family Social Science.
“Participants will complete the same survey three times,” says Rosemary Heins, Extension Educator. “The fi rst night of class, participants will complete the survey and receive a $10 gift card. The last night of class, they will complete the survey again and receive a $15 gift card. The fi nal survey will come in the mail following the class. Upon its return, the last gift card for $25 will be given.” Each individual will complete his own survey and receive a gift card. “The surveys are confi dential,” says Heins.
Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Interested people can sign up or get questions answered by calling Rosi at 763-767-3879, Mary at 763-767-3836, or Pastor Tiffany McDon-ald at 763-753-2273, or by emailing Rosi at [email protected]. The church will provide limited childcare by a licensed profes-sional to those who request it during pre-registration.
Submitted by rutH bedorpubliC informaTion CoordinaTor, anoka CounTy
A new program adminis-tered by the Anoka County Community Development Offi ce offers deferred pay-ment home improvement loans with zero percent inter-est to purchasers of vacant, foreclosed homes in Anoka County, excluding the city of Coon Rapids. This “Foreclo-sure Home Rehab Program” is funded by federal Com-munity Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.
Qualifying improvement projects include replace-ment of roofs, siding, doors, windows, and heating and air conditioning systems; re-
placement or repair of decks or patios, and other repairs needed to comply with state, county, city, health, housing, building, fi re prevention, and housing maintenance codes and minimum energy stan-dards.
“The goal of this program is to rebuild the housing stock in Anoka County,” said Anoka County Board Chair Dennis Berg. “With this program, we can help alleviate the foreclo-sure housing problem in our communities and also help families with low to moderate incomes achieve their dream of home ownership.”
The Foreclosure Home Re-hab program provides loans to qualifi ed families who are purchasing, or have pur-chased in the last six months, a foreclosed home that is in need of repairs.
The purchase price of the home may not exceed $272,260. The loan is zero percent interest and deferred for 10 years or as long as the homeowner is the primary
resident in the home. After 10 years, the loan is forgiven. If within 10 years, the home is sold or refi nanced, the full loan amount is due imme-diately. The minimum loan amount is $1,000; the maxi-mum loan is $24,999.
A home inspection must be completed prior to fi nal loan approval to determine the condition of the home and what repairs are needed. Ap-plicants must have or be able to qualify for a prime or fi xed rate mortgage loan (HUD, VA, conventional). There is no fi rst-time homebuyer re-quirement. Borrowers will be required to complete a Home-buyer Education Course. (Go to the Housing and Urban Development web site for information on where to take the course: www.HUD.gov.)
To apply for the Foreclosure Home Rehab program, visit www.AnokaCounty.us/CD. For more information, con-tact Kristina Hayes at 763-323-5707 or email [email protected].
Foreclosure home rehab program off ers zero interest loans
While many people are con-tent to make monetary dona-tions or volunteer their time to causes they care about, others are so impassioned that they feel compelled to do some-thing bigger and bolder—like start a nonprofi t organization of their own.
For those who might consider it—here are six tips for getting the project off the ground.
1. The desire to make a differ-ence is great, but without a solid plan based on sound
research, your desire can’t be transformed into action. Determine if your proposed venture will qualify—le-gally and fi nancially—as a nonprofi t organization.
2. Nonprofi t organizations are required to adhere to both state and federal regu-lations. Find out what they are and follow them.
3. Keeping good records is a must. It’s important to care-fully document your activi-ties and decisions.
Launching your own non-profi t organization4. Other key decisions include
deciding if you will need to rent offi ce space and/or hire employees and, most importantly, how you will build an effective board of directors. Members are crit-ical to the success of your fundraising efforts and should bring the organiza-tion a range of expertise.
5. Fundraising is a major ac-tivity for non-profi ts and requires a blend of knowl-edge, creativity and per-sistence. Don’t underesti-mate its importance or the amount of time it will re-quire.
6. Once you have laid a solid foundation, focus on the structural details, such as opening bank accounts, developing mission and vision statements, estab-lishing bylaws and board policies, hiring staff and creating personnel policies. In addition, establish pay-roll procedures and obtain the necessary insurance coverage.
Submitted by traCy SLePiCasannerud, savarese & assoCiaTes, p.a.
Just as the door was about to slam shut on the First Time Home Buyer Credit, Con-gress not only extended the deadline to April 30, but also expanded it to include those who are not first-time home buyers (includes homes, trailers, RVs, boats and struc-tures).
The new law—Work, Home-ownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009—ex-tends the previously avail-able $8,000 credit to first time home buyers until April 30. Home buyers who have se-cured binding contracts by the April 30 deadline will still qualify if the purchase is complete by July 1, 2010.
In addition, the new law adds a credit that will be avail-able to those who qualify as “long-term residents of the same principal residence.” Homeowners who have owned their residence for at least five of the past eight
years are eligible under the new law for a $6,500 credit on the purchase of a new home. This allows current home-owners a credit if they choose to up-size or down-size to an-other home.
More can qualify by increas-ing the income limits. Cou-ples earning up to $225,000 a year and individuals earning up to $125,000 are now eligi-ble for the credit.
This credit applies only to homes used as a taxpayer’s principal residence. Vaca-tion homes and homes worth $800,000 or more do not qual-ify for the credit.
21www.THe-Courier.org THe Courier | January 2010 Income Tax
i HaTe wHen THaT HappensBY ranDY GerDIn ase CerTified TeCHniCian
Valerie L. TempCertified Public Accountant
Accounting and Income Tax ServicesOffered Year-Round for Individuals and Businesses
763-753-5521Serving the St. Francis area since 1987
Services include: Individual Income Taxes • Business Taxes Tax Planning • Quickbooks & Peachtree Assistance
Sara D. Sauer, C.P.A.
Elaine M. Mustari, C.P.A.
763-413-339023306 Cree Street, Suite 103 (next to St. Francis City Hall)
Email: [email protected] site: www.Sauer-Mustari-CPAs.com
North Metro Money Management
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23624St.FrancisBlvd,Hwy.47•St.FrancisSecuritiesofferedthroughSammonsSecuritiesCompany,LLCmemberFINRAandSIPC.
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Call for a free personal confidential consultation.Lyle Clem • 763-434-9724
• IRAs(Roth,Traditional,Education…)
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753-6614David Johnson
www.highlandmoneymgmt.com
Securities offered through Sammons Securities Company, LLC. Member FINRA/SIPC.
Are you changing jobs or retiring? Call me to rollover your 401k to an IRA.
Retirement • Investments • College Planning • Life Insurance
23624 St. Francis Blvd., Suite #5St. Francis, MN 55070
FTM Tax & Accounting
James A. Jensen
Business Phone: 763-444-4856 Fax: 763-444-4513
•TaxPreparation Farm,Business
&Personal
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Taxpreparationforindividuals,families,andsmallbusinesses
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763-753-206722491CedarDriveNW(Hwy.13)•Bethel,MN55005
Lynn Karasch, MBA, CPASpecializing in Individual & Small Business Returns
By appointmentPhone 763-413-3090Fax 763-434-4739www.ldkaccounting.comOpen year round for all of your accounting needs.
ta x P r E Pa r at i o n
• Accounting & Bookkeeping Services
• Consulting• Payroll Services• Business Startup
Services
Marianne Roesner, E.A.Income Tax and Accounting Services
19531 Marigold Street NWOak Grove, MN 55303-9006
E-mail: [email protected]
763-753-5555 Fax: 763-753-6666
National Association of Tax PractitionersEnrolled to Practice Before the IRS
Sannerud, SavareSe & aSSociateS, p.a.Certified Public Accountants
Specializing in accounting and taxes for closely-held and family-owned businesses since 1974. Tax Season Office Hours: January 25-April 15 Monday,Tuesday,Thursday 8:00a.m.-8:00p.m. WednesdayandFriday 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m. Saturday 8:00a.m.-Noon
763-434-59291207ConstanceBlvd.NE•HamLake,MN55304
www.sannerudsavarese.com
the whole truth and nothing but the truth
They say that knowledge is power. This is certainly true in the car repair business. We have and use various sources of technical information ev-ery day.
I remember when a custom-er brought in an old, rusty Subaru one day a few years ago. Their complaint was each time they stepped on the brakes, the car stalled. We drove the car and veri-fied the condition, did some basic checking, and ended up going to one of our online resources. We found a bulle-tin describing the symptoms we were encountering. The article said to raise the vehi-cle in the air and inspect for damaged wiring back by the gas tank. We did what was recommended and there it was—the wires for the rear brake lights had shorted out to the wires that feed the elec-tric fuel pump. Every time you stepped on the brake pedal, it shorted out the fuel pump, shutting it down and causing the vehicle to stall.
This was invaluable and real-ly very technical information. There is another kind of in-formation that is also invalu-able to an automotive service tech. This is the information that you, the driver, can relay to the shop that is working on your vehicle.
Often a vehicle is brought in and a symptom given. The tech drives the vehicle, but does not experience the prob-lem. So now what?
Usually a call has to be made and further investigating needs to be done. This takes a lot of time, especially if the driver is unavailable or does not call back. A good tip is, before you bring in your vehicle for repair, stop and write down exactly what the problems are. When does the problem happen? Is the ve-hicle warm or cold? Does the vehicle act up when turning or going over a bump? What is the recent repair history? Is there anything else unusual going on, even if you think it is unrelated? The more infor-mation, the better.
A case in point: We recently had a car dropped off that had a problem with the bat-tery going dead overnight. The customer could not tell us anything else. We began our procedure for locat-ing a drain on the system. It brought us to a circuit with three computer modules on it. The dash needed to be removed to access these modules. The customer was called to update them on our progress and we were told to continue, saying, “It needed to be fixed.” We happened to notice that a light would stay on by the driver’s feet even
with the door closed. And we found that the light would go out when we unplugged cer-tain modules.
We again called the cus-tomer to update them, this time they mentioned that the dome light was staying on all the time, so they took the bulb out. Now it all became clear.
We hooked up a special tester to monitor the door switches and found the driver’s door ajar switch in the open posi-tion. We cleaned and lubed this switch and everything worked fine.
The point is, if we had known from the beginning about the dome light, it would have saved us considerable time and saved the customer money.
Knowledge is power; lack of information can be costly. So next time you’re in for ser-vice, please be ready with all the information you can think of. It may save you some cash!
tax tips: new life, new rules for the home buyer credit
Economy quick facts During the most recent fis-
cal year, Americans volun-tarily donated $3 million beyond their tax obliga-tions to the United States government in an effort to reduce public debt.
According to the Mort-gage Bankers Association, 1 in 10 homeowners with mortgages were at least one payment behind in the third quarter of 2009.
According to Gallup, Americans spend more money on Saturday than any other day of the week.
The unemployment rate in America reached 10.2 percent in October 2009, the first time the rate had reached 10 percent since 1983.
Sports & Outdoors22 The Courier | January 2010 www.The-Courier.org
North Metro Soccer Association RecReational PRogRam SPRing/SummeR 2010Registration January 4-March 1
Ages 4-11 (as of 8/1/2009) Monday/Wednesday ages 4 & 5 (U6 co-ed division)
and 8 & 9 (U10 division)Tuesday/Thursday ages 6-7 (U8 division) and
10 & 11 (U12 division)
Ages 12-17 (as of 8/1/2009) Tuesday/Thursday recreational co-ed program
The recreational program will stress basic soccer fundamentals. Practices held on one night and game on the other. Each team consists of a coach and 10-14 players. Andover, East Bethel, Oak Grove and St. Francis fields will be utilized, with north and south divisions. Season begins in late April and ends on June 26 with the Jamboree. Special requests will be taken into consideration.
Co-CoachesPlease consider volunteering to be a co-coach. You will be making a big difference for youth and your child by volunteering with NMSA. New training opportunities for 2010 will assist and support you. Please check the volunteer box to coach when you register. Thank You
Recreational (U6-U12) uniform included .....................$80Recreational (U13-U18) uniform included ...................$60
Walk-In Registration & Questions Answered Thursday, February 11 6:00-8:00 p.m. Oak Grove City Hall
Saturday, February 20 10:00 a.m.-Noon Oakview Middle School 15400 Hanson Blvd., Andover
Mail-In Registration North Metro Soccer Assoc. PO Box 250 Cedar, MN 55011-0250
Registration forms are available at all city halls in the area. There will be a $20 late fee for registrations if post marked after March 1.
See web site for more details: www.northmetrosoccer.org
Online RegistRatiOn
Go to northmetrosoccer.org
For all your Automotive Repairs & Maintenance
21388 Johnson Street NE, 1 block W of Hwy. 65 & Sims Rd. in East BethelMonday-Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 763-413-3445
Submitted by Lee GraveSSFhS girlS baSkeTball
The St. Francis High School girls basketball team enters the new year looking to con-tinue the hard work and ef-fort they displayed in 2009.
Girls basketball team hitting its stride
Submitted by Joe FredrickSonSFhS girlS hoCkey
On December 19, the St. Francis/North Branch High School
girls hockey team reached a milestone by reaching their 100th win in program history.
With juniors Kelly Kotowicz (ankle sprain), Mikayla Schwartz (broken radial bone), and Brandi Usher (concussion) injured from the previous game against Irondale, the Fighting Saints defeated St. Louis Park 5-0.
Starting the scoring for the Saints was senior winger Jessica Kula. Kula netted the first goal as a result of the rush up ice started by 8th grade defender Maddi Kaehler who sent the puck over to 8th grade wing Taylor Rosati. Rosati fore-checked aggressively after her shot was steered wide, stripped the puck from the Oriole defender and centered
it to Kula who netted the goal. Junior captain Nicole Miller scored the next two goals on separate power play opportunities.
The first Miller goal was as-sisted by sophomore Emily Swanson and senior captain Kara Barton. The second goal started with Miller displaying tremendous puck skills on the attack. She made her way around the offensive zone before sending it to the point to Barton to use her formi-dable shot. Barton unloaded a thunderous slapshot from the blueline that stunned the goalie, and Miller slammed the rebound past the Oriole net minder. For the next goal, Kula passed to Miller go-ing up ice where she drove wide pulling the defender with her. Rosati broke down the middle into open ice and broke in on the goalie and zipped a wrist shot beating the goalie glove side for her first varsity goal.
Fighting Saints girls hockey program earns 100th win
the St. Francis/north branch High School girls hockey team earned its 100th win in program history december 19. SubmiTTed phoTo
Community Ed offers middle school strength and conditioning programSubmitted by tracy torSonST. FranCiS middle SChool
It is that time of year again after a well deserved break to get the bodies moving. Independent School District 15 Community Education & Services is offering a strength and conditioning program again this winter to interest-ed students in grades 6-8.
The students will participate in an 11-week program that has been extended an extra two weeks to give the stu-dents a better experience.
You may register online at www.communityed15.com. Sessions are limited to the first 50 students in each ses-sion. This program is not lim-ited to athletes; all students are encouraged to join.
The first day was January 11 and the program will run until March 25. There is still time to register.
Submitted by bruce riebeST. FranCiS grid Club
The St. Francis Grid Club, supporting St. Francis High School football, is taking ap-plications for anyone inter-ested in two open board of director positions. The posi-tions are for president and secretary. Both positions are two-year terms.
An application can be located at www.stfrancisgridclub.com. Email the completed ap-plication to [email protected] or mail to Grid Club P.O. Box 387, St. Francis, MN 55070.
The mission of the St. Fran-
Grid club seeks board members
The final tally had Kula pass-ing to Emily Swanson as she broke into the offensive zone. Swanson dangled the puck around the defenders and zipped a wrist shot under the crossbar for her first varsity goal. Saints netmider fresh-
man Dakotah Bullen was a human wall as she turned aside 24 shots to preserve the shutout. Miller ended the day with two goals and one assist, Kula one goal two as-sists, Barton with two assists, Emily Swanson one goal
one assist, and Rosati with one goal and one assist. The Fighting Saints girls hockey team began competing a par-tial varsity schedule during the 1997-98 season and began full varsity competition in 1998-99.
The season started with a win over Duluth East where senior guard Melissa Borst-ner scored a career high 37 points in the win. The Saints had strong tests during the
first month of the season and will use the experiences to help them succeed the rest of the season.
As the Saints turn the page they have five home games in the month of January, in-cluding Tuesday, January 19 against Robbinsdale Cooper, Friday, January 22 versus St. Louis Park, and end the month on Saturday, January 30 during alumni weekend against Cambridge-Isanti.
The girls and coaching staff thank you for your support and hope to see you at an up-coming game.
cis Grid Club is to provide funding and time for the sole purpose of supporting and improving the St. Francis football program under the direction of the head football coach.
23www.The-Courier.org The Courier | January 2010 Sports & Outdoors
St. Francis Fastpitch 2010
Try-OutsSunday, February 21 Sunday, February 28
atSt. Francis Middle School
Watch the web site www.sffastpitch.org
for age groups and times.
Open gyms being held at the St. Francis Middle School on Sunday’s from 6:00-9:00 p.m.
beginning January 10.
Get yourself warmed up for try-outs!
St. Francis Auto Parts763-753-4698
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Fighting Saints wrestling looks to continue last year’s success
the 2009-10 St. Francis High School wrestling team is looking toward its goal of a north Suburban conference title. SubmiTTed phoTo
Submitted by Steve SworSkySFhS wreSTling
The temperature has dropped below freezing and the snow has fallen. This only means one thing—St. Francis wres-tling has begun. The Saints are looking to continue off of last year’s Section 7AAA runner-up finish and a North Suburban Conference title.
The Fighting Saints kicked off the 2009-10 season December 3 with an impressive win over North Suburban Con-ference rival North Branch 57–15.
The Saints then traveled to Monticello for the Magic Du-als, finishing the day 2–2. In the first round, the Saints de-feated New Ulm 54–10, and then dropped a close dual to Annandale/Maple Lake 31–30 in the second round. In the third round, injuries ravaged the young lineup as St. Francis gave up 12 points to injury default as they lost to St. Cloud Apollo, ranked #8 in AAA by The Guillo-tine, 39–30. In the final dual of the day, St. Francis was able to bounce back from
the two disappointing losses and looked strong in a 60–16 victory over Orono. Going 4–0 on the day were Austin Leibel at 119, Travis Kapol at 171, and Cody Raze at 215.
The Saints resumed NSC competition with a dual at Irondale December 11. The dual was a close battle up through the 145 pound weight class. Trailing 18–24, the Fighting Saints rattled off five consecutive pins
from Kyle Allen at 152, Tyler Whaley at 160, Travis Kapol at 171, Nate Lipinski at 189 and Cody Raze at 215. With the strong finish, the Saints finished off the Knights with a final score of 55–22, and im-proved to 2–0 in the confer-ence and 4–2 overall.
The next day the Saints host-ed the St. Francis Invite. The Fighting Saints had 11 place finishers, including five in the top three. Austin Lei-
bel improved to 8–0 on the season as he took home the championship at 119. Join-ing him was Ryan O’Connell, who also took home the gold at 125 and improved to 9–1 for the season. Kolton Oie at 103, Tyler Kunshier at 112 and Cody Raze at 215 all bounced back from earlier defeats to claim third in their respective weight classes and helped the Saints to a fifth place finish.
The Fighting Saints then trav-eled to the Minnesota Christ-mas Tournament on Decem-ber 18 and 19 in Rochester. Placing for the Saints was Austin Leibel third at 103 and Cody Raze third at 215. Both of these wrestlers had an ex-cellent tournament. In 2010, the Saints will continue their goal of winning their second consecutive NSC title, and improving upon their early success.
Saints gymnastics previewSubmitted by micHeLLe keenanSFhS gymnaSTiCS
St. Francis High School gymnasts head to the gym for another season. Practice started November 16 for the Saints. It looks as though they will have another promising year with the leader-ship of captains Alex Dziuk and Lindsey Schultz. The Saints re-turn three varsity starters and have added a wealth of new tal-ent with the addition of eight new gymnasts. The season began with a win against Buffalo High School on December 4 with a score of 127.325. Senior Amanda Pett won the all-around with a score of 33.575. The Saints began their conquest for another North Suburban Conference Championship on December 11 against Columbia Heights; they won the meet with a score of 132.70. At the same meet, St. Francis High School competed against top ranked Cambridge-Isanti, who defeated the Saints.
On December 17, the Saints took on the Fridley Tigers and de-feated them with a score of 128.60 resulting in a 2-0 record in the North Suburban Conference. The Saints have had some in-juries and hope that with rest, their top performers will be back. Two home meets were held January 7 and 11.
Submitted by caLLi SiGFriniuSu12 Team manager
The St. Francis girls U12 hockey team dedicated their third place win in the All American Women’s and Girls tournament to soldier Chad Smith. Smith has a daughter on the team playing her first year of hockey.
Being her first year on the team Lexi, Smith’s daughter, got to know her team quickly as they spent almost every day together only missing six in the month of October when the hockey season be-gan. When she overheard her parents talking about some of her father’s group being de-ployed in January or Febru-ary, she was afraid he would be going again. Smith has been deployed twice already. Lexi shared this fear with her team mates. The girls told their parents and as a team wanted to do something to honor him.
A team jersey was donated that all the girls signed. At the end of the tournament they gave the signed jersey to Smith and dedicated their win in his honor. He proudly wears his jersey to games and
Hockey team honors parent/soldier
members of the u12 girls hockey team pictured front row (L-r): caroline b, dakota L., alexa d., Jessica S., chad Smith, kendra b., katie S.; back row (L-r): danielle F., Heather m., kalley b., kelley w., Lexi S., natalie S., and afton d. SubmiTTed phoTo
has become an avid hockey dad. Luckily, Smith will not be going out with the current group being deployed but may have to return in 2011. The U12 girls and their fami-
lies want to thank soldier Smith for his service to our country as well as the entire military service personnel and their families.
Hurry! please submit your
February ad by January 14 if possible.
Call Janice at 763-753-7032.
24 The Courier | January 2010 www.The-Courier.orgSports & Outdoors
Sodervilleathletic
aSSociationRegistration for the 2010
season for all in-house baseball leagues and all in-house and traveling
fastpitch softball leagues will be in FebRuaRy.SAA has programs available for boys
and girls ages 5 and up. Register online February 1-28 at www.soderville.org
using a credit card.
The following walk in registration dates are available at the Saa building at
15633 Highway 65 Ne, Ham Lake:
Saturday, February 20 • 9:00 a.m.-Noon
Thursday, February 25 • 5:00-9:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 27 • 9:00 a.m.-Noon
If you have any questions please call us at 763-413-3555 or send an email to
Freestyle Wrestling Registration
St. Francis Gladiator WrestlingRegistration and sign-up is on Thursday, February 4 6:30 p.m. St. Francis Middle School Multi-Purpose RoomPractice starts March 2 at St. Francis Middle School. Practices are held every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m.
Freestyle wrestling is open to all children K-12. All first year wrestlers must show proof of age (a copy of birth certificate).
For more information, call Tom at 763-434-9330.
tom kirpach caught and re-leased this very nice 50-inch muskie. tom was fishing on an area lake with mike castellano. SubmiTTed phoTo
Paul Hanson of St. Francis shot this 12 point, 200-pound buck this season on his property in St. Francis. Hunting with him were his three sons, Jeff, tim and Steve Hanson, and his grandsons, Jeremy and Justin Hanson. SubmiTTed phoTo
maxwell Spitzer, hunting with his dad dwight on november 8, harvested this eight point whitetail deer on his first hunt opening weekend with one well placed shot from a 30-30 rifle. they were hunting near kettle river, minn. SubmiTTed phoTo
the waterworths had a successful 2009 deer hunt. Pictured (L-r): matt, marcus, kyle, and tim. all four bucks were taken in marshall county during the 2009 rifle season. SubmiTTed phoTo
mitch Schake (above) shot his first deer on november 8, a 170-pound doe in the blackduck, minn. area. three days later Schake (below) shot a nice seven point buck while hunting with his grandfather, who also bagged a nice buck. SubmiTTed phoTo
nate weigel, St. Francis middle School 8th grader, shot his first pheasant in chamberlin, South dakota. SubmiTTed phoTo
melissa Lemke, 14, of oak Grove, daughter of tammy and mark Lemke, shot her first deer november 7 at the family’s land at clo-verdale, minn. Her sister Sarah was the spotter. after a long wait to get a good shot, which was over 200 yards away, melissa dropped the deer in its tracks. SubmiTTed phoTo
ralph boehlke of east bethel and tim bruner (son-in-law and guide) of Ham Lake scored these mature tom turkeys on april 29 at 6:45 am while hunting in columbus township. it was a beauti-ful sight and a great hunt, one that i will never forget. SubmiTTed phoTo
Buy a ticket from the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce and you may win a
2010 Polaris 550 IQ Shift snowmobile! Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased by calling Stephanie at 612-202-0754 or visiting one of the following St. Francis businesses:McDonald’s Village BankSubway County Market The Courier
Bush-starr announcement
terry and Karen bush of andover along with marc and Kim Starr of Oak grove are happy to announce the engagement and upcoming marriage of their children Kather-ine bush and matthew Starr. the couple was engaged on February 18, 2009 and will be married in march 2010.Katie is a 2006 graduate of St. Francis High School and is cur-rently employed by meridian Ser-vices of golden Valley. matt is a 2003 graduate of St. Francis High School and is currently working for aldi Supermarkets in brook-lyn Park. the couple will reside in ramsey. suBmiTTed PhoTo
Life & Classifi ed25www.The-Courier.org The Courier | January 2010
easT BeThelsenior evenTs
Senior Dance
Come dance with us, we know how to have fun! Danc-es are from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Music for the Friday, Febru-ary 1 dance will be played by Gary Martens. Tony Jambor will be the musical entertain-ment on Monday, February 15. The cost is $5 and lunch is included.
Pancake Breakfast
All are welcome to the East Bethel Seniors Pancake Break-fast on Sunday, February 14, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. They will be serving pancakes, French toast, sausage, juice, and cof-fee. Cost for breakfast is $4 for adults and $2 for children age 10 and under.
All events are held at the East Bethel Senior Commu-nity Center located one mile east of Highway 65 on 221st Avenue in East Bethel for the dance or pancake breakfast.
masTer gardenerBY CAROL BRAY isanTi CounTy masTer gardener
Cedar Creek Baking Co., Inc.
Custom made cakes, cookies or bars for any occasion
Stop and see our booth at the NW Wedding Expo
Sunday, January 31 at the Otsego Holiday InnOwner - Cherise Foley
Call for an appointment today! 763-753-969622001 Lake George Blvd. • Anoka, MN 55303
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Therapeutic Massage by LuAnn Smith C.M.T.
Hours by appointment • Gift certifi cates available
Sunday Services9:45 & 11:00 a.m.
Contemporary Service in the gym
9:45 a.m. Sunday School8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
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Wednesdays6:45 p.m. Youth Group
6:45 p.m. Kids’ AWANA Club 7:00 p.m. Bible Study & Prayer
Call for more information or additional Bible studies or
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For more information call 763-441-1600www.nowthenalliance.org
christmas piano recitalSubmitted by bOnnie SWedeenPiano insTruCTor
A piano recital was held on December 6 at the Bethel Commu-nity Church. Students played a variety of music with skill levels ranging from Primer to 7th+. Each student played one Christ-mas song and one of their choice. Two instrumental songs were performed by a fl utist and a violinist, accompanied by the pi-ano, and two songs were done as duets. Parents, relatives and friends enjoyed the wonderful performance from the students.
Students participating in the christmas recital were, front row (l-r): Sydney Wicklund, Keely Wicklund; second row: donavon miles, Katrina Johnson, deveny miles (piano and violin), grace bell (guest violin), rose Hermanson; back row: elena Klasons, Heather Jones, thomas Oberg, Josh Wicklund, allie Wicklund, and instructor bonnie Swedeen.
winter’s the time of year to prune fruit trees
One of the most frequently asked questions I’ve received as a Master Gardener is, “When should I prune my fruit (apple) trees?” The an-swer is now—January, Feb-ruary or March. You should prune with a plan. The goal is to maintain the plant’s natu-ral shape and to obtain a pre-mium fruit and harvest.
Here are some helpful hints:
Wait two or three years af-ter planting to start prun-ing. The more branches and leaves on the top, the faster the trees will recover from transplanting.
Make the pruning cut fl ush with the branch bark collar.
Pruning cuts fl ush with the trunk are not good because these cuts are slow to close and make a great entryway for disease and pest prob-lems.
Remove dead or damaged branches.
Remove any branches that are crossed, rubbing or parallel.
Ideally the branches should be horizon-tal and well spaced from top to bottom and around the tree.
Remove any branches that are growing straight up. Branches that are trying to be “leaders”—branch-es that are compet-ing with the main
trunk.
Prune watersprouts (up-right shoots on branches) and suckers (upright shoots at the base of the trunk) as close to their bases as pos-sible.
Prune only the lower branches that are necessary for safety and clearance. The lower limbs are the tree’s best defense against
disease and old age.
If you’re planning on pur-chasing a fruit tree in 2010, I would strongly recommend a ‘dwarf’ cultivar. The huge advantage is, of course, that you will be able to harvest your fruit and prune your tree without struggling with a ladder. Ladders always cause safety concerns.
Would you like to save branches from fl owering trees such as crab-apples for indoor bloom? Here’s how.
Recut the stems and place in a bucket of water in a cool (about 60 degrees F.), brightly lit location.
Mist the branches several times a day if possible—until the stems start to bloom.
Prolong the blossoms by storing the blooming stems in a cooler spot (40 degrees F.) at night.
Resource: Month-By-Month Gardening in Minnesota by Melinda Myers and edited by Chuck Levine.
If you have any further ques-tions, please contact the Isan-ti County Master Gardeners at the Extension Offi ce by calling 763-689-1810 or the University of Minnesota web site at www.extension.umn.edu.
engagemenTs
26 The Courier | January 2010 www.The-Courier.orgLife
BirThs
Zach and Stephanie Baus-worth of St. Francis are proud to announce their new addi-tion to the family, Sophia Marie, born at Mercy Hos-pital on November 25. She weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces and was 20½ inches long.
Sophia is welcomed by proud big sister, Angelina, 8 and big brother Jr., who is 4. Also welcomed by grandparents Robin and Lawrence Kre-ger of Milaca, Tom Matter of Elk River, Cheri Bausworth
Reflectionson a yeaR gone by.
This has been a difficult year for some... a merciful year for others. We ask you to join us
in expressing our sympathies to the families we have served during the past twelve months.
May the coming year be a blessed onefor you and your family.
Isanti Chapel 763.444.5212
409 e. broadway, isanti, Mn
Cambridge Chapel 763.689.2070
720 1st avenue east, cambridge, Mn
For information on grief and funeral related topics you are welcome to stop by, call or visit our web site at:
www.strikefuneral.com© 1988 MKJ Marketing
In Oak GrOve CrOssInG3154 Viking Boulevard NW
Oak Grove
763-753-533626 Years of Experience
Complete Family Dental Care in a Relaxed
Atmosphere 8/09
Dr. Thomas John Knox
D.D.S.
New Patients
Welcome!
All major insurance accepted23624 St. Francis Blvd. (Hwy. 47) Suite 1 St. Francis, MN
Johnson FamilyChiropraCtiC
Dr. Mary J. Johnson
Gentle Individualized Personal Care
763-753-3126Living Hope
Evangelical Free Church
www.LivingHopeEFC.org
763.753.1718
Sundays at10:00 a.m.
St. FrancisHigh School Auditorium
of Cottage Grove and Steve Bausworth of St. Francis.
Ava Angelina Marie Imme-diato was born on Novem-ber 24 at Cambridge Medi-cal Center. She weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces and was 21¾ inches long. Proud par-ents are Tony and Heather Immediato of Coon Rapids. Ava is welcomed by brother, Anthony.
Kaitlyn Lily Beaman was born December 7 at Cam-bridge Medical Center. She weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20½ inches long. Proud parents are Gordo and Stephanie Beaman of Bra-ham. Kaitlyn is welcomed by sister Madison and grand-parents, Gordie and Suzie Beaman of Mora and Steve and Gerri Rombach of Isanti.
Iris Kathryn Falconer was born on December 14 at Cam-bridge Medical Center. She weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounc-es and was 21 inches long. Proud parents are Thomas and Rachel Falconer of Isanti.
Iris is welcomed by siblings Briana, 12, Dena, 5, and Lola, 18 months.
Gradden Lawrence Higgins and Austan Paul Higgins were born December 14 at Cambridge Medical Center. Gradden weighed 5 pounds, 12 ounces and Austan weighed 5 pounds, 10 ounces and both were 17½ inches long. Proud parent is Tanya Higgins of Mora. Gradden and Austan are welcomed by sibling Daunite.
Kennedy Jo Marshall was born on December 17 at Cam-bridge Medical Center and weighed 10 pounds, 7 ounc-es and was 21½ inches long. Proud parents are John and Kellie Marshall of St. Fran-cis. Kennedy is welcomed by brother, Caden Wyatt Mar-shall.
Christopher Thomas Mer-rifield was born on Decem-ber 17 at Cambridge Medi-cal Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces and was 21½ inches long. Proud par-ents are Jason and Kara Mer-rifield of Isanti. Christopher is welcomed by siblings Al-lison and Andrew.
Savannah Elizabeth Lopez was born on December 18 at Cambridge Medical Cen-ter. She weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces and was 19½ inches long. Proud parents are Stacy and Joseph of Isanti.
Sophia Marie Bausworth suBmiTTed PhoTo
Yoga for injury prevention—and a relaxed state of mind to bootSubmitted by ViVian Plummer, PtaPhysiCal TheraPisT assisTanT, andover PhysiCal TheraPy
Yoga has been in practice for thousands of years. It is an ancient system of meditation. The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word meaning yoke or bind. In west-
ern views it is the union of the body, mind and soul. Yoga is not a religion, but has been incorporated by many religions to help one become more spiritual in their own religious practices. Yoga is therapeutic as well as a preventive science.
In the United States many practice what is known as asana, performing a routine of physical poses. These are used to help with stretching and strengthening of muscles. Muscles become toned without the bulked-up look. Hatha yoga, which stresses physical movement, is highly practiced today. It is a series of coordinated exercises that balance both sympathetic and para-sympathetic nervous systems that leads to improved health and relaxation.
Yoga has many benefits including toning muscles, enhancing balance and coordination and posture, lowering blood pres-sure, relaxing the body and mind, reducing stress and anxiety. It also has been known to help with emotional concerns includ-ing Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and impulse problems.
There are a lot of books and videos about yoga out there and to decide which one to choose can be overwhelming. The best way to see if yoga is right for you is to take a class. Most gyms or yoga studios offer a free week of yoga to try it out. There are classes for beginners. The most important thing is that when you perform the poses you shouldn’t feel intimidated by the instructor or others in the class. Poses can be modified in many ways including doing the poses seated or with props.
Yoga should be practiced regularly to experience all of the ben-efits. Practicing 20 to 30 minutes three times per week is ideal to make a difference physically as well as mentally.
Uniting the body and mind is the essence of yoga. Remember the experience is found through practice and the benefits are the many rewards.
maintaining healthy weight a several-step process Arguably the most difficult thing about losing weight isn't losing the weight itself, but keeping it off once it's been lost. Those who have struggled with their weight often admit their weight fluc-tuates regularly, illustrating the struggle that maintaining a healthy weight can present.
While every person is differ-ent, there are ways to keep weight off, and many of them are relatively minor. What these methods all have in common is the commitment level they require. Making a long-term commitment to each of the following changes cannot only help lose weight, but keep that weight off as well.
Closely monitor fat and sugar intake. Reduce con-sumption of foods high in fat and sugar, or substitute with reduced-calorie and reduced-fat foods and bev-erages. The fat in your diet should be limited to 30 per-cent or less of total calories each day.
Get daily exercise. Exercise comes in many forms, and it's best to determine what type of physical activity best suits each individual
ConTinued on Page 28» HealtHy WeigHt
27www.The-Courier.org The Courier | January 2010 Life
Isanti Physical Therapy
Enterprise Ave. NW side of Hwy 65
763-444-8680Andover Physical
TherapyAndover
Downtown Center
763-433-8108
St. Francis Physical Therapy
St. Francis Mall
763-753-8804Ham Lake Physical
Therapy18415 NE Hwy. 65 • Cedar
½ mile south of East Bethel Theatres on Hwy. 65
763-413-0880
PhysicalTheraPy
All insurances accepted!
Sickness have you worn down?Worried about colds/flu affecting your family?Call today to see how chiropractic can keep you
at work and your kids in school!
Offering
Massage Therapy with Savannah
HagenbeckTuesday through
Saturday 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Opp FamilyChiropractic P.A.
23168 St. Francis Blvd., Ste 600 next to County Market
763-213-0615Open Monday through Friday, Saturday by appointment.
Specializing in Sports & Family CareCertified in Pediatric Care
Accepting ALL major insurances www.oppfamilychiropractic.com
18975 Lake George Boulevard
1/4 mile south of Cty. Rd. 22 on Cty. Rd. 9
763-753-5717www.newlifeoakgrove.org
Nursery Provided
A place to Invite, Ignite, and Excite
others about Jesus!
Sunday Schedule Worship Services
8:30 and 10:30 a.m.
Sunday School and Bible Study
9:45 a.m.
Come join us and invite a friend!
St. John Lutheran School &
Early Childhood Center Community
open House for school
enrollment 2010-11Preschool through Grade 8
Thursday, January 21 • 5:00-7:00 p.m.If unable to attend call for enrollment information
763-441-66169243 Viking Boulevard NW
Elk River, MN 55330 www.sjlcas.net
Christian Education for Excellence
With our unseason-ably warm No-vember, many of
us were not prepared when the cold weather came. How are you dressing your child to walk to school or to wait for the bus during cold weather? There are certain articles of clothing which are neces-sary and can make the cold weather easier to bear.
Children need the same pro-tection as adults when it comes to clothing. Some chil-dren get cold and do not tell anyone. They may also be too busy playing to realize they are getting cold. A good idea is to dress your child in lay-ers. Layers are like blankets on a bed. Layers should be light weight clothing instead of heavy clothing made out of synthetics. Layers are much better than wearing a really heavy coat. Wear what is comfortable. It is easier to take a layer off than to take an entire jacket off, as it is also easier to put on a layer when you get chilled. A good layer of clothing is a T-shirt, shirt and sweater/sweat-shirt. If your child gets too warm during the day, an out-er layer can be removed eas-ily and then put back on be-fore going home. One piece snow suits are easy for young children to put on and take off. They also give a good layer of protection against the cold. Choose a jacket with a hood for extra neck warmth and one with cuffed wrists to keep the cold and snow out.
Your child’s ears, cheeks, nose, chin, fingers and toes are very susceptible to frost bite. Protect your child from cold weather by having your child wear a hat or hood plus a scarf around the neck. A neck warmer is a good al-ternative to a scarf. Hands should be protected with gloves or mittens. Children do better with mittens as the mittens allow air to circulate around the fingers, keeping them warmer. Mittens should be water proof when there is snow. Wet mittens will cause your hands to get cold faster. It is always good to pack an extra pair.
Warm stockings and shoes/boots are vital during cold weather. Toes and fingers are easily forgotten as other areas are protected. Wear two pairs of stockings if you will be in the cold for an extended pe-riod of time. Winter shoes/boots should not fit too tight-ly. Air will need to circulate to keep your feet drier and warmer. If possible, choose a boot/shoe that is water proof with good traction. Check the size for a good fit, children’s feet grow quickly.
Even if you drive your child to school, prepare for cold
weather. Your car could break down (flat tire) and you and your child can be-come chilled if the proper clothing is not worn. Keep a blanket in the car for warmth as help arrives.
Dressing for the weather is also very important for the adolescent. There are ways to dress for warmth and still be fashionable. The wicking layer, the layer that is worn next to your skin, should be made from a fiber that wick (move) moisture away from your skin and pass it through the fabric so it will evapo-rate. This keeps you dry and comfortable. Silk and polyes-ter are good wicking fabrics. Cotton is not because it traps the moisture and causes your skin to stay wet and then draws heat away from the body.
Head bands are an alterna-tive to hats and will keep your ears protected from the cold and not mess up your hair. Thinsulate gloves will keep your hands warmer and prevent frostbite in cold weather. Adolescents can also wear two pair of stock-ings in cold weather. One pair is very easy to remove once in school.
When skin is exposed to very cold temperatures, the skin may freeze (frostbite). The ar-eas most likely to be affected are your hands, feet, nose
and ears. If an area is exposed to the cold weather, it will change in color from flushed to white or grayish in color. There initially will be pain, but the pain will subside as the area affected becomes numb. For severe frostbite, blistering may occur.
If your child or you develop frostbite, handle the affected area very gently. Do not rub the affected area or break any blisters that may be forming. If you are outdoors, warm the affected area slowly by holding it under clothing and close to the body. Cover your face or head/ears with mit-tens or gloved hands. Get in-doors as soon as possible. As the area thaws, it will become red and painful. Seek medi-cal attention for any blister-ing or if numbness does not go away.
If you are indoors it is okay to warm hands and feet in warm (not hot) water for 20 to 30 minutes until sensation returns. An adult needs to check the temperature of the water because numb hands or feet will not feel the heat and can burn easily. Wrap a cold child in a blanket. Never use direct heat such as a heat-ing pad.
Advise your child to go to the Health Office at their school if he/she feels they may have frostbite.
Winter is here—dress for it!Submitted by lillian leVine, rn, lSndisTriCT 15 healTh serviCes suPervisor
File PhoTo
Pathways to better Health ProgramSubmitted by SPencer blaWPaThways Program CoordinaTor,healTheasT Care sysTem
HealthEast Care Systems has a unique and powerful program to offer the community; it is called Pathways to Better Health: Managing Ongoing Health Conditions. It is a training program for people who are living with chronic health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, obesity, can-cer, to name just a few. The program is a series of six weekly workshops that run for 2 to 2.5 hours. Participants will receive the 380 page reference book Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions.
A workshop series is scheduled at: The Pines/Epiphany Catho-lic Church Dining Hall at 1800 – 111th Avenue NW in Coon Rapids. Classes are on Fridays, January 29, and February 5, 12, 19, 26, and March 5, 1:00-3:30 p.m.
For more information about the Pathways program visit www.healtheast.org and click on Classes and Wellness.
28 The Courier | January 2010 www.The-Courier.orgLife
FaiTh lisTings
abundant life alliance church3840 197th Avenue NW
Oak Grove • 763-753-0284www.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 • 763-753-2057www.crossofhope.net
Family of christ lutheran church & christian Pre-School16345 Polk Street NE
Ham Lake • 763-434-7337www.foclutheran.org
First baptist church & christian School K–12
22940 St. Francis BoulevardSt. Francis • 763-753-1230www.fbcsaintfrancis.com
living Hope evangelical Free churchSt. Francis High School
PO Box 264St. Francis • 763-753-1718www.livinghopeefc.org
long lake lutheran church3921 277th Avenue NW
Isanti • 763-444-5315www.longlakeluth.org
meadow creek church3037 Bunker Lake Boulevard
Andover • 763-427-4543www.meadowcreekchurch.org
new life church17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW
Ramsey • 763-421-0166www.newlifemn.org
nowthen alliance church19653 Nowthen Boulevard
Anoka • 763-441-1600www.nowthenalliance.org
Our Saviour’s lutheran church19001 Jackson Street NE
East Bethel • 763-434-6117www.oursaviourslc.org
St. andrew lutheran church1450 237th Avenue NE
(Hwy. 65 & 237th Avenue)East Bethel • 763-434-7146
www.standrewlutheran-eastbethel.org
St. Francis united methodist church3914 229th Avenue NW
St. Francis • 763-753-2273www.stfrancis-umc.org
trinity lutheran church, School and latchkey/childcare
3812 229th Avenue NWSt. Francis • 763-753-1234
www.trinitysf.org
West bethel united methodist church
1233 221st Avenue NECedar • 763-434-6451
Round Lake DENTAL
Complete Family DentistryOpen Evenings
Nitrous Oxide Available • Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Thomas Swenson
763-427-028513841 Round Lake Blvd. NW • Andover
2 Minutes N of Hwy 10 on Round Lake Blvd.
ST. FRANCIS CHIROPRACTIC OFFICEKendall W. Goodian, D.C.
3220 Bridge street • suite 107 • st. Francis
Chiropractic orthopedistSpecializing in Sports, Industrial and Auto Accident Injuries
Call 763-753-1277 for an appointmentlocated in the st. Francis mall 3/09
763-421-014113855 ROUND LAKE BLVD NW
ANDOVER, MN 55304
VSP PROVIDER
HOURS: MON, THURS, FRI 8:30-5:30 TUES, WED 8:30-8:00
Dr. Francis S. Ryan, DentistMain Street at First Avenuekitty-corner from The CreameryIsanti, Minnesota 55040
Se Habla Español Aqui – Poco.
Telephone 763-444-4063
mediCal direCTory
Trinity Lutheran Church, School, and Latchkey/Childcare 229th & Ambassador Boulevard
St. Francis, MNPhone 763-753-1234 • www.trinitysf.org
All are welcome to join us for Sunday Worship Services
at 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday School and
Bible Classes at 9:15 a.m.
OUR SAVIOUR’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
Worship With UsSundays at 8:00, 9:15, and 10:45 a.m.
Wednesday Power Up services at 6:30 p.m.
Join Us Swing Dance Lessons, Divorce Support, AA/NA
Meetings, Men’s Groups, Women’s Groups, Family Events, Creative Stamping, Quilting
+ so much more.
19001 Jackson Street NE • East Bethel, MN 55011West County Road 22 south on Jackson Street
763-434-6117 email: [email protected] • www.oursaviourslc.org
EC
LA
St. Francis United Methodist Church3914-229th Avenue • St. Francis, MN
(Across from St. Francis Elementary and right by the hockey rink)stfrancis-umc.org 763-753-2273
God always loves youAnd we would love to grow
in God’s love with you.Sunday School for all ages 9:15 a.m.
Worship 10:30 a.m.
and each lifestyle. Initially, you should work your way up to regular aerobic exer-cise, such as brisk walking, jogging or swimming, since it is a key factor in achiev-ing permanent weight loss
and improving health. For maximum benefi ts, most health experts recommend exercising 30 minutes or more on most, and prefer-ably all, days of the week.
Be aware of your eating habits. Negative eating habits can include over-
indulging, eating when bored or looking to food for comfort. Many times people don't even realize they are routinely treating food in these ways. Keep-ing a food diary, in which you write down when you eat, what you're eating and why you're eating is a good means to discovering just what your eating habits are and determining if they are healthy or not.
Remember the value of bal-ance when planning a diet. Mom, Dad and no doubt school teachers extolled the virtues of a balanced diet, and for good reason. Don't forget the fi ve good groups (milk, meat, fruit, vegeta-ble, bread) when planning a diet. If you have a spe-cialty diet, due to an exist-ing condition or lifestyle, consult with a physician as to how to best balance your diet, as there will no doubt be certain foods that are off limits.
monitoring the ingredients of what we cook is oftentimes just as important as monitor-ing what it is we are eating. File PhoTo
From Page 26HealtHy WeigHt Osteoarthritis:
are knee braces benefi cial?Submitted by SuSel garciaPhysiCal TheraPisT, isanTi PhysiCal TheraPy
Osteoarthritis (OA) in the knees can be very debilitating and may lead to decreased quality of life depending on its severity. Knee braces are one way people try to cope
with their pain, but do they really work?
First, fi nding the correct type of brace is vital. Braces typically assist with improving stability and swelling, but can also make mechanical advantages to the knee joint for more functional movement. There are many knee braces including prophylac-tic braces which assist in preventing injuries, functional braces which provide stability, rehabilitative braces which limit mo-tion after surgery, and unloader braces which decrease stress on one compartment of the knee joint. Because of its unloading and weight shifting capabilities, some studies have shown that unloader braces provide the best pain relief for people suffering from OA in only one part of their knee, but not both. Current evidence has also shown a decrease in pain during weight bear-ing activities and improved walking distances with the use of unloader braces.
Other factors affecting the potential benefi ts of knee braces for OA is correct fi tting, age, severity of cartilage damage, and length of wearing time. After knee braces are prescribed and properly fi tted by a professional, it is typically recommended people not constantly depend on the brace, to allow for natu-ral strengthening during functional activities like walking and stair climbing.
Although knee braces may provide temporary pain relief for some, it is not the entire answer for everyone suffering from OA. Participating in complementary treatments like well de-signed physical therapy programs, regular exercise, dietary changes, and activity modifi cations, all assist in improving pain, swelling, stiffness, and overall function.
29www.The-courier.org� The�courier�|�January�2010 Classified
Next ISD 15 SCHOOL BOarD MeetINgS are: January 25 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.; February 8 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Organizational Meeting 7:00 p.m. at Central Services Center, Community Room, 4115 Ambassador Blvd., St. Francis.
St. FraNCIS area CHaMBer OF COMMerCe next board of directors monthly meeting is January 20 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Community Center, next to St. Francis City Hall. The Annual Chamber Dinner will be held on January 22, 6:00-9:00 p.m. at The Refuge Golf Club in Oak Grove. Visit the web site for ticket information or see the ad on page 32. Go to www.stfrancischamber.org for more information on any event.
St. FraNCIS JayCeeS will meet on the third Friday of every month during the fall, winter and spring months at 7:00 p.m. at the St. Francis City Community Center, located on 23340 Cree Street. For info, visit our web site at www.stfrancisjaycees.org. Walk-ins welcome.
tOpS CHapter MN #1774 meets every Wed. morning at 9:30 a.m. at the St. Francis Community Center next to city hall. TOPS stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly and is a weight loss support group. Come check us out on Wed. mornings or visit www.tops.org.
St. FraNCIS area WOMeN OF tODay meet the 1st Tuesday of the month at St. Francis City Hall. 6:30 p.m. is social time with the meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Women of Today, visit us at www.mnwt.org or call Dana at 763-753-5010.
Oak grOve SeNIOrS meet the 2nd Wed. of the month at noon for potluck and a short business meeting, 4th Wed. of the month at noon for a kitchen help’s choice and short business meeting. BINGO follows each business meeting. For information about the club and events, call Harry Bearl at 763-753-2973.
aMerICaN LegION pOSt 622 – St. Francis General membership meet monthly, the 2nd 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 622St. Francis General membership meets monthly, on the 3rd 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 DFL COuNty uNIt 17 meets on the 3rd Thurs. of each month at St. Francis High School at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call Ray Steinke at 763-753-1871.
eaSt BetHeL SeNIOrS meet 3rd Thurs. of the month, 10:30 a.m. for business meeting and noon for lunch. 2nd Wed. is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon w/potluck at noon, cards and games until 2:45 p.m., celebrate birthdays of the month at 3:00 p.m. 4th Wed. crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon, cards and games from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. followed by coffee and treats. Pancake Breakfast is held 2nd Sun. of each month, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Dance the 1st Fri. of every month, 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the center. Center is available for rent. For information, contact Mary Henrickson at 763-434-5274. All seniors are welcome to join; only $7 per year.
BNI – reFerraLS uNLIMIteD Meets every Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. at the St. Francis Community Center, next to St. Francis city hall. For more information check www.bni-mn.com.
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 1st & 3rd Thurs. of each month, from noon to 3:00 p.m. For more information call President Ray Steinke at 763-753-1871.
NOWtHeN LIONS CLuB board meeting is 1st Thurs. of month at 6:30 p.m.; general meeting 3rd Thurs. of the month at 7:30 p.m. both at Nowthen City Hall. For more information please call Lion Judy at 763-753-6962.
LIONeSS CLuB-St. FraNCIS meets monthly. 1st Wed., administrative board, and 3rd Wed., general membership meeting at 7:00 p.m. Meetings are held at St. Francis City Hall. For more information call Jean Schuldt at 763-753-1205 or Illa Torgerson at 763-753-2002.
LIONS CLuB - St. FraNCIS meets three times during the month at the St. Francis American Legion. 1st Wed. board meeting; 2nd Wed. regular business meeting; 4th Wed. social & program. All meetings start at 7:00 p.m. and adjourn at 8:15 p.m. Call Lion Brian Heichel for more information at 763-753-4415.
Oak grOve LIONS meet every 2nd and 4th 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.
LIONS CLuB-CeDar/eaSt BetHeL meets bimonthly, 1st and 3rd Tues., 7:00 p.m., at the Ham Lake VFW. Call Gary Larson at 763-434-9423.
CeDar/ eaSt BetHeL LIONeSS CLuB meet every second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at Lioness Yvonne Johnson’s. Phone 763-434-6985.
Have a meeting or event you would like listed? Call 763-753-7031 or visit www.the-courier.org for more info
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.
165 Main St. • P.O. Box 64 Bethel, MN • 763-434-4366
Nowthen City CouncilMeets 2nd Tuesday 7:30 p.m.
19800 Nowthen Blvd. Anoka, 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 &
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 District OfficeSt. 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
The Courier
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By Phone763-753-7031
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ChildCarePreSChool CAre�for�children�3+�only.�Daily�schedule�with�preschool�curriculum� and� activities.� associ-ates�degree�in�early�childhood.�call�763-213-1028.
oPeNiNgS For SChool Age kidS ANd PreSChoolerS� 1/2�off� first� week.� st.� Francis� elemen-tary� and�Trinity� school.� Food� pro-gram� provided.� very� fun� and�loving� environment.� For� more� in-formation� call� lisa:� 763-434-8090�or�763-458-1948.�1st�and�2nd�shift�openings!�references�are�available.
ST. FrANCiS liCeNSed dAy-CAre� all� ages� welcome,� daily� ac-tivities�and�crafts,�fenced�yard,�food�program,� east� Bethel� community�school,�sara�763-753-0021.�
ChildCareoAk grove licensed�daycare,� full�or�part�time�openings,�Jen�763-753-1026.
ST. FrANCiS liCeNSed dAyCAre�has�openings�6:30�a.m.�to�6:00�p.m.��First�week�1/2�off�with�enrollment.�please� call� ann� for� more� informa-tion:�763-213-8467.
PreCiouS TiMeS leArNiNg CeNTer in� st.� Francis–call� today,�enrolling�all�ages,�763-753-4656.
FitnesskeTTleBell, yogA-FiT� and�personal� fitness� training� classes�starting� soon.� call� 763-267-2198�or�visit�our�web�site�at�www.ascen-sionbodyworks.com.
Let classified ads work for you!
The next issue of The Courier will be delivered on
February 3.
Deadline for classified ads is
January 25.
The first ten words
are
FREE!A classified
form is available online at www.
the-courier.org or in our office.
Call 763-753-7031
for more information.
serviCes PiANo TuNiNg - �violin,�piano,�and�guitar� lessons� -� Michael,� 763-219-4883,�[email protected].
PeT NAil TriMS�by�cleo’s�c&c,�$4,�763-434-8997.
For leaseSPACe For leASe� 5,238� square�foot� office/warehouse� space� with�hwy.� 47� frontage� in� st.� Francis,��763-753-6116.
Ads for February are due early!
City of St. Francis Planning & Zoning Volunteers Wanted
The City of St. Francis is in need of volunteers for Planning & Zoning. These positions are very important to the future of our city and will require a commitment of one night per month to meet and process city business.Requirements are that the candidate live in the City of St. Francis and have a desire to serve the citizens for the betterment of the city. Interested parties can contact St. Francis City Hall at 763-753-2630 for more information and/or an application. EOE
Granny’s Christmas ClosetGranny’s Christmas Closet is a non-profit
organization dedicated to providing Christmas
gifts and new clothing to seniors in need.
If you’d like to help, call us at 763-792-6408 or email to:
For more information on how to contribute to, volunteer for or find drop boxes for Granny’s
Christmas Closet, please visit www.grannyschristmascloset.org.
Issue DeaDlIne DelIvery2010
February 1/15/10 2/3/10March 2/12/10 3/3/10april 3/19/10 4/7/10May 4/16/10 5/5/10
Winterfest scheduled for February 6 at wildlife refuge SuBMiTTEd By NANCy HAuGENsherBurne�naTional�wilDliFe�reFuge
Bring the entire family to Winterfest, an exciting day of out-door activities celebrating winter, to be held at Sherburne Na-tional Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, February 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This free event includes a full day of activities that focus on how wildlife and people deal with the winter snow and cold. Snowshoes will be available for visitors to try at no charge. Outdoor activities include a horse-drawn sleigh ride, scavenger hunt, guided nature walk, and exhibits on wildlife, animal tracks, winter survival and winter bird feeding. Inside the Old School House you will find face painting, nature crafts and the Friends of Sherburne Gift Shop. Silent Hunters, a pro-
gram with three live owls, will be presented by the Audubon Center of the North Woods at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Hot chocolate, hot ci-der and coffee will be available for purchase all day in the hospitality tent and a brat and hot dog lunch will be available from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Friends of Sherburne will hold a silent auction fundraiser with over 15 items.
Winterfest celebrates the 107th An-niversary of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Sherburne Refuge is one of over 545 refuges that span
93 million acres across the United States and its territories. The National Wildlife Refuge System is America’s only network of federal lands dedicated specifically to wildlife conservation. Winterfest participants can enjoy a free piece of anniversary cake to be served at 12:30 p.m.
All activities begin at the Old School House located on Sher-burne County Road 9, 5.5 miles west of Highway 169. For addi-tional information check the refuge web site at www.fws.gov/midwest/sherburne or contact the refuge at 763-389-3323 or toll free at 877-721-4295. TTY users may access the refuge through the Federal Information Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339.
30 The�courier�|�January�2010� www.The-courier.orgMarketplace
Fido’s Barber Shop 19847 Orchid St. NW, Oak Grove
All Breed Professional Dog Grooming and
Personal Care BoardingDay and Evening Appointments
763-213-8143
“We treat your pets like our own”
St. Francis Veterinary Clinic763-444-9359
Doctors on staff Dr. Tracey ThomasDr. Jill HergenraderDr. Kelly PawlentyDr. Steve Kivisto
Two miles north of St. Francis on Highway 47Visit us on the web at www.sfvetclinic.com
•Smallanimalmedicine,surgeryanddentistry•Freeinitialpuppyandkittenexams•Earlymorningdropoffavailablebyappointment•Eveningappointments•HeartwormandLymetesting•MicrochippetID
SuBMiTTEd By MArTHA WEAvEranoka�counTy�puBlic�inForMaTion�Manager
The Anoka County Midwest Medical Ex-aminer’s Office in Ramsey has received full accreditation from the National
Association of Medical Examiners (NAME). Representatives from NAME recently toured the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Offices and reviewed equipment, procedures, annual re-ports, and files with facility staff. NAME in-spectors concluded that the facility is “well run and progressive and the staff is motivat-ed and works efficiently together to achieve goals.”
NAME accredited facilities represent the high-est quality of death investigation systems, ac-
cording to Anoka County Board Chair Dennis Berg. “The NAME accreditation affirms that this facility is second to none,” Berg said. “Our citizens can be assured that they are receiving the highest quality medical examiner services at a top notch facility.”
The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office serves more than 600,000 people in nine coun-ties: Anoka, Isanti, McLeod, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Sibley, Todd, and Wright. In addition, facility staff performs autopsies on a consulta-tion basis for three counties in Wisconsin and also private autopsies for families and attor-neys. Hamline University in St. Paul leases space in the building to house its extensive bone collection and provide on-site training for anthropology students.
Anoka County’s Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office receives full accreditation
Snow lends to Wonders of WinterBy SANdy MOrGANsT.�Francis�area�chaMBer�oF�coMMerce�Dinner�coMMiTTee�MeMBer
The beautiful snow this holiday season is creating the perfect setting for the St. Francis Area Chamber of Com-merce annual dinner, “Wonders of Winter”, to be held on
January 22. The red carpet event will include a steak or chicken dinner, a live auction featuring world famous Betty’s Pies, and will conclude with the mayor of St. Francis drawing the win-ning ticket for a brand new 2010 Polaris 550IQ snowmobile.
The public is welcome to join area businesses, and the Sno-Ghosts snowmobile club, as they honor outgoing chamber board members, welcome the newly elected board of directors, and raise money to support and serve the community. The mis-sion statement of the St. Francis Area Chamber of Commerce is to serve the needs of the membership in working toward the common goal of a growing, healthy business environment and community as a whole. The chamber sponsors communi-ty events such as Lighting of the Park, Business Expo, Nite to Unite, a golf tournament, Pioneer Days, holiday coloring con-test and scholarships.
Held at The Refuge Golf Club in Oak Grove, the Wonders of Winter program will be a festive way to celebrate our Minne-sota winter, enjoy a delicious almond chicken or flat iron steak dinner including Betty’s Pies for dessert, and have an oppor-tunity to bid on the famous pies as well as dozens of fantastic prizes donated by area businesses.
Raffle tickets for the snowmobile are limited to 500 and din-ner tickets must be purchased by January 15. Contact Stephanie Wallin with chamber today at 612-202-0754 to be part of this fun event. You may also visit [email protected] for more about the event and see our ad on page 32.
The AJAX of the North Metro Soccer Association is the 2010 Boys u15 Holiday Classic Champion. The indoor soccer tourna-ment was held at the National Sports Center in Blaine. suBMiTTeD�phoTo
college students, that doesn’t mean it isn’t im-portant. Recognizing that, many of the nation’s uni-versities have increased their efforts to provide stu-dents with healthier fare at dining halls or other campus eateries. Students should take advantage of this whenever and wherev-er possible. Eating well can also help reduce stress, as a balanced diet will provide both the energy and nutri-ents necessary to handle a full load.
Learn to take a breather. Adults often take breaks when going through the
daily grind, and students should make note and fol-low suit. Studying for too long without taking a break can be counterproductive, as concentration will be-gin to wane after too long, making it increasingly dif-ficult to soak in studies. Schedule breaks into each study session, whether it’s to go for a walk, jog or sim-ply fit in a healthy meal. But don’t allow break time to become too big a distrac-tion.
Determine the root cause of the stress. Work is typi-cally the root cause of adult stress, and school is of-ten the cause for students. Many students stretch
themselves too thin, hop-ing to gain as much as they can from their high school or college experi-ence and therefore filling their schedules. But stu-dents who feel as though they’re being pulled in too many directions should drop an activity or two. For instance, playing a varsity sport while holding down a part-time job and having a full course load is simply doing too much. If a class is getting to be too much to handle, students should consult a teacher and ex-plain the situation.
Don’t be afraid to speak about stress. Many stu-dents find it healthy and re-juvenating to simply speak about their levels of stress. This helps to get things off their chest, and it also inadvertently gives them time away from studies. Be it sharing experiences with stress among fellow students or simply talking to Mom and Dad, students should speak about stress in an effort to combat its ill effects.
FroM�page�9HANdliNG STrESS
If you’re a chronic belated gifter or a friend or family member simply slipped your mind this holiday season, it’s never too late to make up for this temporary memory loss. In fact, belated gifting is so common it even has its own protocol. When sending a gift after the holiday season, it’s best not male too big a deal out of your memory lapse. Overdoing it with repeated apologies will only empha-size the fact that you forgot,
and will even come off as somewhat insincere. When sending a belated gift, simply include a gracious note along with the gift. This will show the recipient you’re truly sor-ry without belaboring the fact that you forgot. With respect to timing, it’s best to send a belated gift as soon as you re-
alize your momentary lapse. For example sending a gift within a month of the holi-day season is perfectly com-mon. However, if you don’t realize your mistake until the month of June, it’s probably best to wait until next holi-day season. Just don’t forget next year as well.
Are you a belated holiday gifter?
31www.The-courier.org� The�courier�|�January�2010 Marketplace
Affordable lifestyle choices for seniors with the
comfort of community!All Denominations Welcome
Assisted Living• Assisted Living and Memory Care
apartments available
• 24 hour home care staff
• Restaurant style dining
…and much more
10955 Hanson BoulevardCoon Rapids, MN 55433
763-755-0320
Independent Senior Housing
• 1 & 2 Bedroom apartments (with fully equipped kitchens)
• Laundry hookups
• Individually controlled heat (included in rent)
• Grocery and beauty shop available at both facilities
…and much more
1800 111th Avenue NWCoon Rapids, MN 55433
763-755-9299Call Today For A Tour
Full medical, dental, laboratory and surgical services for pets
763-753-6336cty.�rd.�22�&�cty.�rd.�9� amy�Morgan,�D.v.M.oak�grove,�Mn�55011� lisa�Johnson,�D.v.M.
This winter protect your pets…
with adequate shelter and plenty of fresh water.
This winter protect your pets…
with adequate shelter and plenty of fresh water.
If your pet could talk, he would insist on…
$5 O� Full Grooming
763-753-5450 Limit one o� er per family. Not valid with any other
coupons or o� ers. Expires: 2/2/10
$50 O� Training
763-753-5450 Limit one o� er per family. Not valid with any other
coupons or o� ers. Expires: 2/2/10
$3 O� Boarding per Night
763-753-5450 Limit one o� er per family. Not valid with any other
coupons or o� ers. Expires: 2/2/10
763.753.54506560 Norris Lake Road
Elk River, MN 55330 (Nowthen)www.goldstarkennelsofmn.com
Free stu� ed
animal with service
Pickup and delivery now
available
Dogs and cats welcome
Open 7 days a week
By appointment
only
in 2008, St. Francis residents recycled over 475 tons at curbside.so�far�in�2009,�st.�Francis�residents�recycled�over 400 tons�at�curbside.
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 763-427-3110Allied Waste 763-784-2104
2009Goal630
Tons 35 Tons
Recycled in November
SuBMiTTEd By MONiCA CAMPBEllanoka�counTy�liBrary
In a wonderful example of partnership be-tween two county organizations, Anoka County Library recently presented Anoka
County Historical Society with a permanent collection of reference books relating to local and state history. The books will be enjoyed by visitors to the History Center and are included in the Anoka County Library online catalog, helping to inform Anoka County citizens of these new resources.
“By working together with the History Center,
the Library was able to identify and provide additional resources to supplement the His-tory Center’s current collection. More than 300 titles were added, which means improved researching of Anoka County history and ge-nealogy,” said Dennis Berg, Anoka County Board Chair. “This is one more way the county is working to be cost effective.”
Historical Society Executive Director Todd Mahon accepted the books presented by Li-brary Board president Cathy Montain at the December 1 dedication ceremony.
County Commissioners dan Erhart and dennis Berg, library Board president Cathy Montain, Historical Society Executive di-rector Todd Mahon, library Board member Jane daniels and li-brary director Marlene Moulton Janssen. suBMiTTeD�phoTo
Anoka County Library presents History Center with books
SuBMiTTEd By ruTH BEdOranoka�counTy�puBlic�inForMaTion�coorDinaTor
As parents watch their child grow and develop, they no-tice when their child smiles, rolls over, sits up, walks, plays, coos, cries, and talks. While children grow and change at their own rate, some children experience delays in development. Par-ents concerned about their child’s development may call Anoka Area Help Me Grow/Early Intervention to sched-ule a developmental screen-ing for their child. As part of the developmental screening, children may be observed in their own home or other comfortable setting by a child development professional. Anoka Area Help Me Grow/Early Intervention may be helpful if a child has:
Hearing or vision concerns Trouble talking or commu-
nicating Trouble with coordination,
walking, or crawling Diffi culty calming down
when upset Diffi culty playing with toys Behavior concerns or dif-
fi culty playing with other children
Medical conditions, con-cerns, or syndromes that can affect development
Low birth weight or pre-maturity
During the developmental screening visit, parents have the opportunity to ask ques-tions about their child’s de-velopment and are given ideas on how to help their child learn new skills and grow. Parents also will re-
ceive information about re-sources to help their child and family. If developmental delays are identifi ed, free ed-ucational and support servic-es may be provided for chil-dren from birth to age three who live in Anoka County and the portion of northern Hennepin County that is in Anoka-Hennepin School Dis-trict 11.
With parent permission, any-one may call to request a screening including relatives, childcare providers, public health nurses, early child-hood professionals, medical providers, foster parents, and social workers. To make a re-ferral or for more information, call the Anoka Area Help Me Grow/Early Intervention Of-fi ce at 763-323-KIDS (5437) or visit www.anokaearlyinter-vention.com.
Help Me Grow/Early intervention Services provides free screenings for infants and young children
Hop on into the March 3 issue for your Easter sales, events or faith
services by February 12.
The April issue will be printed after Easter.
32 The�courier�|�January�2010� www.The-courier.org
SAVE THE DATEApril 17, 2010
St. Francis High School10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
COSPONSORED BY THE ST. FRANCIS AREA CHAMBER
OF COMMERCE AND ISD 15 COMMUNITY
EDUCATION & SERVICES
Watch for more details in the
February Courier or go to the
St. Francis Area Chamber of
Commerce web site for registration
information
www.stfrancischamber.org email: [email protected]
763-438-5163
For raffl e and dinner tickets, call Stephanie: 612-202-0754 or visit www.stfrancischamber.org to pay online with PayPal.
Join us as we roll out the red carpet in honor of our outgoing chamber board members, welcome the new board of directors, and celebrate our annual fundraising dinner which allows us to
provide a growing, healthy business environment and serve the community as a whole.
The St. Francis Area Chamber of CommercePresents
Dinner & Live Auction Friday, January 22, 2010
6:00-9:00 p.m.The Refuge Golf Club, Oak Grove
Dinner tickets: $15 for Chamber members
$20 for non-membersTickets must be purchased in
advance by January 16. Public welcome.
Win a brand new
2010 Polaris 550 IQ Shift snowmobile! Raffl e tickets: $20 each – only 500 tickets will be sold!
The evening will include:
• Steak or chicken dinner
• Live auction featuring world famous homemade Betty’s Pies
• Drawing for snowmobile raffle
Wonders of Winter
HERE COMES THE GUIDE!The Wedding and Valentine’s section will be in featured in the February issue of The Courier.
RSVP your business ad and let readers know what you have to offer for the romantic or the soon-to-be bride and groom.
Contact Janice at 763-753-7032 or [email protected] and she’ll help you help your business.
www.captainsonlonglake.comHwy. 47 to 277th Avenue, East to Long Lake and
left to Captain’s, 27821 Bayshore Drive NW
763-444-5897Hours: M-F 11 am-1 am; Sat & Sun 7 am-1 am
Sunday, February 21
Bridal Fair11:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
• Drawings, Discounts and Prizes• Food and Beverage Tasting• Music• Brides who book with Captain’s
during the Bridal Fair day will receive a room discount and complimentary dinner for two.
Vendors interested in participating, please email: [email protected]
For Banquet Hall information call 612.554.3512.
Saturday, January 30
DINNER & THE ELVIS SHOW
6:00 until 9:30 p.m. • $30 per personReservations are required, call 763.444.5897.
On Saturday, February 6 join us for the
LONG LAKE FISHING CONTEST
Registration at 9:00 a.m.Contest begins at 11:00 a.m.
Info, call Dave at 763.444.5077Saturday & Sunday, January 16 &17
SNOWMOBILE VINTAGE NATIONALS
2-DAY RACE EVENT!Saturday, January 16
VINTAGE SHOW & SWAPFor more info, call Pete at 763.286.3283 or visit
www.vintagesnowmobileracing.com
Music at Captain’sKaraoke/DJ Every Friday with a contest January 29-March 19 • Grand Prize is $250!Saturday, January 16 8:30 p.m. Country CreekFriday, January 22 8:30 p.m. Mirror ImageSunday, February 7 3-6 p.m. Tony Jambor Band
Old Tyme Music
Happenings Tuesdays: Texas Hold-Em 7&9 p.m. Wednesdays: Cribbage 7 p.m. Thursdays: BINGO 7 p.m.
VINTAGE NATIONALS