the courier - december 2013

The Courier

December 2013 | Volume 21, Issue 5 Free

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

December What’s Insideschools in Action .........................................2

school board Highlights ........................13

community & business ..........................15

community education ...........................28

sports & outdoors....................................31

life .................................................................33

classified ......................................................36

Sara Prekker, cake decorator for King’s County Market in St. Francis and Andover and a St. Francis resident, recently won first place in a cake decorating contest held by the Upper Midwest Bakery Association October 27 at the Mall of America. Prekker competed against 11 other decorators in the zombie birthday cake category during the Ultimate Cake Decorating Competition. Prekker is pictured with her winning zombie cake. She has been employed at County Market for nine years and won a number of other awards for her decorating skills. She has been in six competitions, winning first place four times, earning trophies and cash prizes. submItteD PHoto

Holiday Happenings www.the-COUrier.Org

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St. Francis Elementary School designated as a Reward School for second consecutive yearAngie hylensFes communIty relAtIons coorDInAtor

St. Francis Elementary School received the prestigious designation of Reward School from the Minnesota Department of Education for the second year in a row. The state has created a method to recognize high performing schools by designating the top schools as Reward Schools or Celebration Schools. Reward School is the highest possible designation and is bestowed upon the top 15 percent of schools compared to their grade level grouping. Celebration School is the second highest classification and is given to the next 25 percent of schools. In turn, lower performing schools are classified as Continuous Improvement Schools, Focus Schools or Priority Schools.

In 2011, Minnesota received a waiver from the No Child Left Behind plan, and now holds schools accountable through a more comprehensive system. The waiver has transitioned from a punitive, compliance-based system to one that recognizes high performing schools and offers support to lower performing ones. The focus of the new plan is on cutting the achievement gap in half by the year 2017, rather than expecting all schools to reach 100 percent proficiency by 2014.

To become a Reward School, the state looks at data in two different areas; the Multiple Measurement Rating (MMR) and Focus Rating (FR). According to the Minnesota Department of Education website, the MMR uses data from the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) tests in reading and math and looks at proficiency, growth, individual achievement, gap reduction, and graduation rates for secondary schools. The Focus Rating pertains to the proficiency and growth of specific subgroups including students of color, special education students, students in poverty and English learners. The data posted on the MDE website lists St. Francis Elementary School as scoring 94.48 percent on the Multiple Measurement Rating system and earning a 94.60 percent Focus Rating.

Principal Kathy Kohnen is justifiably proud. In a congratulatory letter she commended her staff saying, “Thank you for all your dedication to the teaching and learning that happens every day for our students within every facet of the building. Everyone plays a part in this reward. You make SFES and SFES-North the best.”

AliCiA lOehleinstAFF WrIter

The Independent School District 15 election for school board members was held November 5. The school board approved the resolutions for the canvassing return of the general election and authorizing certificates of election at the November 11 school board meeting. Marsha Van Denburgh was re-elected to a four-year term and David Roberts and Barbara Jahnke were elected to four-year terms as well. Roberts was appointed by the school board to fill a vacancy last February. Betsy Roed was elected to a two-year term to complete the remainder of the vacant position. Terms begin the first Monday in January. Outgoing board members are Harry Grams (8 years) and David Anderson

(12 years).Totals are as follows:

4-year term Candidates total Votes

David Roberts 879Barbara Jahnke 688Marsha Van Denburgh 615Juanita Reed-Boniface 577Malcolm T Vinger II 521Shannon Collier 2672-year term Candidates

total Votes Betsy Roed 751 Scott Schwarz 621

As of November 5, there were 19,092 registered voters in three precincts. Forty-two people registered on Election Day and 26 absentee ballots were cast. Total persons voting were 1,412, or 7.4 percent of registered voters.

The next election for ISD 15 school board will be held November 2015 when the term of Amy Kelly, Janet Glover and

Suzanne Erkel will end. Voters saw new tabulator

machines when casting their ballots this year. The basic voting process was the same, with voters completing a paper ballot to insert into the vote tabulator. However, advanced technology and improved features in the equipment enhanced the voting and tabulating process. New equipment was purchased by Anoka County to replace obsolete optical scanners. The new equipment combined the familiar paper-based balloting system with the flexibility and efficiency of the most advanced digital image technology and included a 12-inch LCD display and a modem that transmitted vote totals directly from the polling place for faster and more accurate results.

new school board members elected

2 The Courier | DeCember 2013 | www.The-Courier.org

Schools in Action School Board Highlights PAGE 13

Community Education PAGE 28

Superintendent’S CornerEdwArd SAxton

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

Dear Village Bank Staff,GrAtitudeIt is with profound gratitude that we thank you for your continued service and dedication to Village Bank. We are honored and proud to have a dedicated group of employees who believe in the spirit of serving our customers and communities. We thank you for helping us achieve our goals and making Village Bank stronger than ever. As we celebrate 20 years of service, we are grateful to all our staff for your loyalty through the challenges and helping us create a thriving community bank that truly cares for our customers.

our Wish to AllWe wish you a very Merry Christmas, a safe and happy holiday season, and a prosperous new year for you and your families. Rejoice in the season and celebrate all that is good!

Thank You and Merry Christmas,Don & Jamie KvetonVillage Bank Owners

Dear Village Bank Customers,

Dear Village Bank Staff,

Anoka-ramsey Blaineeast Bethel st. Francis

Isanti Physical Therapy

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North Branch Physical Therapy

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St. Francis Physical Therapy

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Andover Physical Therapy

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Ham Lake Physical Therapy

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Give the gift of massage from Physical Therapy

Consultants this Christmas! Buy 3, Get 1

Free Offer expires 12/20/13.

Seniors 65+, ISD 15 employees and standing physical therapy patients

always receive 25% Off any 60 minute massage booked.

Gift Certificate

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When in doubt, talk it out

By the time this article is printed and delivered, our students and their families will have completed the first third of their school year. Our community has had the

opportunity to be involved and engaged with students progressing through the 2013-14 school year educational journey. Opportunities to observe academic growth, athletic and arts achievement, and personal growth have been abundant.

Community dialogue is important. My 5th grade teacher had a sign in his room that read, “When in doubt, talk it out.” This phrase is anchored in my memory and has surfaced periodically over the years. The action sounds simple; the task, however, is considerably more challenging. Many discussions are engaging and people share topics with enthusiasm. Positive student progress is exciting; it is easy to talk about and fun to recall. However, not all topics fit the

prior description.Topics tend to vary in

community interest and community engagement. For example, on November 21, I attended a meeting of the St. Francis Community for Drug Awareness (SFCDA) committee in the Performing Arts Center at St. Francis High School. There was a concentrated interest and a possibility of engagement. The several hundred people who attended heard a clear message. The statement on the front of the program read, “Our group is dedicated to educating both parents and their children on the danger of drugs!”

Parent and SFCDA committee chairwoman Michelle Anderson opened the program with information about the group and its mission. It was clear from the start that this organization is focused on education. Several speakers articulated the need for additional education as the

primary focus. It was not an event most

reporters would have covered. Even it they had, it may not have been printed or aired. There was no finger-pointing. There was no attempt to establish blame. There was simply a concentrated, united attempt to heighten awareness, educate concerned citizens, and engage all of us in a process of becoming more in tune with our community.

Topics included social media, parenting tips, signs that send up red flags, and a plan of action to help all of us engage. The speakers did an excellent job educating. One of the most useful ideas discussed was the anonymous tiplines. Our high school has had a tipline for three years, and recently, tiplines were added at the middle school and at the St. Francis Police Department.

Why the tiplines? Great question. Tiplines have been used in several settings, and

people use them every day. If you notice a fire in your neighborhood, you call 911. You don’t think about it. You don’t analyze it. You don’t wonder about it. You make the call. Some might say “That’s a little extreme. It is an emergency.” True enough. Let’s assume you saw a field fire heading toward a neighborhood. Yes, once again, call 911 because it could get to the level of an emergency if action is not taken. You feel a certain amount of responsibility to help take care of our community.

Let’s not spend too much time talking about apps on your phone designed to give you tips on restaurants, travel directions, cars, shopping and who knows what else. Let’s not talk too much about the oldest tipline known to human kind: word of mouth. We get the word out because we believe the message is important.

We now have three tiplines. How tough are they to use? The action is simple because it is a phone call; however, the decision to make the call is where people struggle. “I don’t want to tell on my brother. He might get in trouble.” If you are contemplating making a tipline call, chances are, your brother is already in trouble. Calling to report a fire that is about to destroy property is the right thing to do and is done promptly without a second thought. As a community, I believe we can be equally diligent for each other. Make the call.

Please choose to engage. As a community, we need each other.report suspicious activity anonymously:St. Francis High School Tipline .....................763-213-1665

Continued, Page 3

The Courier | DeCember 2013 | www.The-Courier.org 3

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

DQ gift cards make great

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StEM students visit science reserveCEdAr CrEEk CoMMunity SChool 5th GrAdE tEAChErS

Cedar Creek Community School 5th graders spent a day visiting Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve in September. While there, students did an ecosystem comparative study noting the differences in temperature, soil and sunlight exposure in each area. Students were also able to do insect sweeps and discover the insect life of the prairie. A hike to Cedar Creek bog highlighted the history of the area and how scientists continue to study the changes of this beautiful environment. Students enjoyed the day as they practiced all of their observation skills including what items look, feel, smell and sound like. Many parents were able to attend this field trip as well, discovering this wonderful scientific treasure we have in our own backyard.

Cedar Creek Community School 5th grade scientists have been busy using their scientific observation skills to complete a Grow Critter investigation recently. the young scientists documented mass, length, visual changes and any other observations they detected in this week-long StEM investigation.

CCCS 5th grade teaCherS

Independent School District 15 American Indian Parent Committee Meeting

Tuesday, December 3 • 5:00 p.m.St. Francis High School, Room 215

3325 Bridge Street, St. Francis

Independent School District 15 Community Multicultural/Diversity

MeetingTuesday, December 10 • 5:00 p.m.St. Francis High School, Room 215

3325 Bridge Street, St. Francis

St. Francis Middle School Tipline ................... 763-213-8600St. Francis Police Department Tipline ................... 763-267-6199In an emergency call ...........911

FroM Page 2

Superintendent


Season’s Greetings

presented by the St. Francis Lioness/Lions Club

Saturday, december 79:00-11:30 a.m.

St. Francis American Legion HallCounty Road 24 (Bridge Street)

& County Road 9

Tickets sold at the door: $3.00 for age 10 and under; $4.00 adultsBring your camera to take pictures with Santa.

Fun, Food and door PrizeS

Proceeds for community projects.

Keep warm ThiS winTer!

Wrap yourself in the luxury of alpaca. Local farm has ready-made clothing or buy hand-spun or

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Can’t make it? Call for a private showing. 21658 Rum River Blvd.,

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Season’sGreetings Cedar Creek

Baking Co., Inc.in Oak Grove

Have a very Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Year

from all of us at St. Francis Foods

Kids Country Childcare Center

in St. Francis

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

Get Fit by Lori St. Francis

Celebrate the song of Christmas!

MUSIC & Consignment Center

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Paraprofessional retires after more than 35 years in ISD 15JESSiE rowlESSFMS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

Micki Knode, a paraprofessional at St. Francis Middle School, is retiring after working for more than 35 years in Independent School District 15. Knode started in 1978 and spent two years at St. Francis Elementary School in Title I, 14 years at East Bethel Community School, 9 years at Cedar Creek Community School and 10 years at SFMS in special education.

Knode was a graduate of St. Francis High School, having attended school in ISD 15 from grade 3 through 12. Knode stated, “When I attended elementary school, the present middle school housed first through 12th grade.”

Knode was a stay-at-home mom until her children were in first and third grade. “I wanted to be involved with the school, so being a para and having the same school schedule as my children was the right fit for

our family life,” stated Knode.After being asked what

Knode’s most memorable and enjoyable parts were of her time with District 15, she replied, “I have worked with several special education teachers who were great mentors for me. Getting support and feedback from my fellow paras make District 15 a great place to work. I want to say thank you to all the staff, students and parents who have made my years at ISD 15 such a memorable journey.”

Knode’s plans after retirement are to volunteer at East Bethel Community School in first grade, spend more time with her grandsons, Collin and Cayden, and getting ready for her daughter’s upcoming wedding.

SFES Holiday Sing-A-Long and Toys for Tots drop-off siteSCott kruGErSFeS dean oF StudentS

St. Francis Elementary School (SFES) will be hosting a holiday all school sing-a-long and become a drop-off site for KARE 11 Toys for Tots. The sing-a-long will be

held December 19, 2:00-3:00 p.m. Toys will be welcome any time throughout the school day. SFES students will be encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to be placed in the KARE 11 Toys for Tots drop box as they enter the gymnasium for the sing-a-long. The sing-a-long will be directed by Meri Humphrey, music teacher at SFES.

The drop-off site at SFES will be open to all residents of

St. Francis, Isanti, Oak Grove and surrounding communities.

The KARE 11 Toys for Tots will be observed by Staff Sergeant Joseph Grove, a St. Francis High School graduate. Grove is a member of Marine Wing Support Squadron 471. SFES will also be in communication with local Marines interested in attending this event. If you are a Marine, please contact Scott Kruger at 763-213-8758.

Micki knode File Photo

Bundle Up in Joy!Here’s hoping the festive

spirit of the holiday season wraps itself around you

and your family

the hallways of St. Francis Elementary School were filled with pink on wednesdays during the month of october in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. the building Sunshine Club asked staff members to wear pink in honor and memory of all the family and friends who have been struck with the disease. Staff members participating in wear Pink wednesdays had the opportunity to enter their names into a drawing for prizes each week. donations were collected throughout the month for the Jane Brattain Breast Center. in addition, a bulletin board was placed outside the health office for staff members to add names of loved ones affected by breast cancer. SCott Kruger, SFeS dean oF StudentS


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Merry Christmas!

holli hillMAnCCCS 4th grade teaCher

On October 25, fourth graders at Cedar Creek Community School (CCCS)participated in a high-energy day filled with community-building activities that promote kindness and empathy. Each year CCCS welcomes Youth Frontier leaders to inspire students to be respectful, kind and create a positive school climate. High school student leaders spent the day at CCCS leading small group discussions and building connections with younger students while exemplifying outstanding

qualities of what it takes to be a positive role model. Leaders address many topics including bullying, respect, empathy, conflict-resolution and making kind choices. Participation in the retreat results in behavioral

and attitudinal shifts that create a positive learning environment.

Special thanks to the CCCS PTO for sponsoring this incredible experience.

In-school workshop promotes kindness

high school student leaders spent time with fourth grade students leading discussions on bullying, respect, empathy, conflict-resolution and making the right choice. SubMitted Photo


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(Below) East Bethel Community School’s hike-A-thon was held october 4. thank you to all those who made the event such a success. EBCS’s Pto organized the event and it earned $9,595.61! All proceeds will stay in the school and support the students. nanCy ZaK, ebCS 4th grade teaCher

(Right) All 135 of ted Gehring’s students pose with the new St. Francis Middle School sign along highway 47. the old sign was frequently vandalized and students played a role in meeting with principals and calling for the sign to be replaced. ted gehring, SFMS teaCher

(Right) on november 1, St. Francis Elementary School third graders met with Cedar Creek Community School kindergarten teacher, author and illustrator kathi Greene. Greene showed the third graders how she illustrates her Betty Gets Ready books. Students learned how to illustrate Betty and even created portraits of themselves using the techniques they learned. Previously that week, third graders had read the story, What do Illustrators Do? by Eileen Christelow. this story focuses on the methods illustrators use to make their books come alive. having Greene, a “real-life” author and illustrator, present to the children as a culminating activity truly enhanced their learning experience.

Kate herMann, SFeS 3rd grade teaCher


Keeping you well for over 125 years!Keeping you well for over 125 years!

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Midwest Google SummitFifteen years ago, who would

have thought superintendents, administrators and teachers would be attending a two-day “summit,” learning how to innovatively leverage Google tools for teaching and learning?

The third-annual Midwest Google in Education Summit (#mwgs on Twitter) in Wisconsin Dells was that very thing. Since the conference was completely booked within five days of opening registration, the school district was fortunate to send five representative teachers: Amy Worden, Joe Fredrickson, Linda Ericson, Brock Libby and Collin Minshull. With the official implementation of Google’s free suite of enterprise-level tools (Mail, Calendar, Drive, and more), it is imperative the Independent School District 15 send representatives to such rich, education-specific conferences.

Over 675 educators and administrators from 6 states (as far away as Kansas), representing 275 schools, educational service agencies and universities, descended on the Glacier Canyon Lodge Conference Center for three days of workshops and breakout sessions focusing on leveraging the power, availability and flexibility for education. More than 80 separate sessions shed light on topics such as using the creative, sharing and collaborative power of Google Drive, increasing efficiency with the tools in Gmail, making the

Chrome browser do more work so we don’t have to, integrating Google sites into the classroom and student learning, customizing Google Maps and Earth for geography and culture-based learning; harnessing the power (while ensuring online safety and appropriateness) of YouTube for teaching and learning and much, much more.

The theme of this year’s summit was encapsulated in one question by keynote speaker David Jakes (you can learn more about David at http://davidjakes.me/). “Does education, as an institution, have the capacity to wonder, to innovate and to take on a new expedition, one in which the outcome is possibly not known?” So the follow-up question, then, for the district staff attending was, “How can our district, which has such solid access to technology and specifically to Google’s tools, move forward as a district to innovate, challenge and equip everyone involved to begin a new education expedition?” With that in mind the five attendees have returned, primed to share their insights and new learning with staff across the district.

If you are curious about the MWGES, you can browse through the conference offerings and still access some of the actual presentations at https://sites.google.com/site/gapsmidwestsummit/

teCh ChroniCleS Collin MinShull iSd 15 teChnology integrationiSt St. Francis high School

Food lockerdAwn ABrAhAMSFhS Career adviSor

This time of year is when many families need to use a foodshelf. There are many options in the community for donating food and clothing, but it’s always good to remember that we have a need right here in our school district. St. Francis High School is the site of Food Locker, a service provided to the St. Francis community, used by many of our own students. The Food Locker accepts donations of non perishable food, hygiene products, household and school supplies. Donations can be made any time to the main office of the high school. The Food Locker is open before or after school or by appointment. The Food Locker is discreet. Students can bring home items in a backpack.


Driver’s Education

ClassrOOm eduCaTiOnRegistration for classroom driver’s education is being

accepted for the 2013-14 school year. If you are 15 years of age or approaching 15, you may register to participate in a 30-hour classroom driver’s education

course offered during the school day. Fee $110.

Behind-The-Wheel driving insTruCTiOn

Six hours of required behind-the-wheel instructionFlexible scheduling

State of Minnesota certified instructorsFee $250

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

Sponsored by ISD 15 Community Education

@ sT. franCis high sChOOl

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

Publisher Troy Ferguson ........................763-753-7041 [email protected]

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

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

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

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

Production binie bertils

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

deadline information Deadline for the January issue of The Courier is December 6.

news Send news and photos to [email protected].

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kindergarten students at Cedar Creek Community School “adopted” a tree as part of their study of trees and seasons. Each season kathi Greene’s class will visit this tree and observe the changes that are happening. the tree was planted in memory of nickolas Engler, a CCCS student who tragically passed away in 2012. nickolas was a former student of Greene’s and the brother of Andrew Engler, who is in currently her class this year. Sandy benSon,

CCCS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

Cedar Creek Community SChool

Student Council met in october and elected officers. Congratulations to the following CCCS students: President: Alana Grove, Vice President: Avery Benson, Secretary: Anthony Esboldt and treasurer: Benji McArton. the CCCS store has officially opened for the 2013-14 school year and sells pens, pencils, erasers, pencil sharpeners and lots of other fun things. Cedar Creek Community School’s annual Pie-in-the-Eye fundraiser is coming soon. Students will be selling tickets for a chance to throw a pie in the faces of student council members and Principal darin hahn. the money collected will be used to purchase gift items for CCCS families who need assistance during the holiday season. if you would like to donate to our fundraiser, there will be a donation bucket in the main office at Cedar Creek Community School. this fundraiser continues until december 18. Carol KruPKe, CCCS teaCher & Student CounCil adviSor

Students enjoyed snacking on delicious homegrown apples in Susan olsen’s CCCS first grade class. while they were munching, they learned about how an apple tree produces a healthy snack and brainstormed all the different uses of this well-known fruit. SuSan olSen, 1St grade teaCher at CCCS

Cedar Creek Community School 5th graders earned a little extra “cash” in their individual checkbooks on november 6 when they came dressed for the snowy weather. Students make deposits or subtract fines in their checkbooks all trimester for homework completion, behavior and for having the appropriate supplies. this “cash” is spent at a class auction the end of each trimester on donated prizes. this is a friendly reminder that your child should have the appropriate outdoor gear to enjoy their recess outdoors. PaM edblad, CCCS teaCher

third grade students at Cedar Creek Community School recently learned about fire safety from the East Bethel and oak Grove Fire departments. Students learned about the fire truck and all the equipment. they enjoyed going into the truck and imagining themselves in this important role. A highlight of the day was going in the Smoke house. the accumulation of smoke demonstrated the importance of getting low before leaving a smoky room. teachers from East Bethel Community School and Cedar Creek Community School would like to thank the fire departments for not only teaching students about fire safety but making it interesting. Sally Siira, 3rd grade teaCher, Cedar CreeK CoMMunity SChool

St. Francis Elementary School (SFES) students celebrate halloween in grand style, complete with a costume parade consisting of students and staff members decked out in friendly, creative costumes. the parade snakes throughout the school building so students can view each others’ costumes, and then spills out into the parking lot to entertain parents and community members. As in years past, the 2013 parade’s grand marshal was Principal kathy kohnen, wearing a carved pumpkin atop her head, and dean of Students Scott kruger, resplendent in a duct tape suit. (Upper Right) third grade teachers at (SFES) got into the spirit as the team dressed as the host and contestants on the classic television game show, The Price Is Right. teacher reis Beeler impersonated the illustrious host, drew Carey, while his colleagues posed as enthusiastic contestants. Pictured (l-r) are Beeler, Candi Blosberg, kate hermann, Sue hoefs and karen holsten. (Lower Right) Four SFES teachers donned creative, homemade costumes to join the school’s halloween parade. lisa Prowizor, diane Peterson, Briana Anderson and Meri humphrey posed as minions, the lovable, google-eyed characters from the popular despicable Me movie series.

angela hylen, SFeS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

Fundraiser was a sticky situationAnGiE hylEnSFeS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

The Association of Parents and Teachers at St. Francis Elementary School sponsored a fundraiser with a most unusual incentive for the top sellers. Students who met individual sales goals were invited to turn Dean of Students Scott Kruger into a sundae. Students gleefully applied chocolate and strawberry toppings, whipped cream and sprinkles to a very tolerant Kruger, who dressed in old clothes and protective goggles for the occasion.

The annual fundraiser generates money, which will be applied toward classroom materials and projects approved by the organization.

Kruger, who last year was duct taped to a wall as a sales incentive, takes his role as a fundraising guinea pig in stride. “The students put me in a sticky situation with all the chocolate and strawberry sauces, whipped cream and sprinkles, but we all had fun. There were many laughs and smiles. Several people have asked me what I can do next year to one-up the last two years, and I am sure the group will come up with something just as interesting and fun.”


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St. Francis Police Sergeant Jake rehling recently spoke from Crossroads School students regarding his career and how he got where he is today.

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Scott kruger, dean of students at St. Francis Elementary School, volunteered to be a human sundae to help raise funds for classroom materials and projects. SubMitted Photo


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St. FranCiS middle SChool

youth Frontiers: Building positive school communitiesJESSiCA rowlESSFMS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

All students in seventh grade at St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) went on a field trip the last week of October called The Courage Retreat put on by a company called Youth Frontiers to promote standing up for oneself, having courage to do the right thing, anti-bullying, confidence, school pride and social inclusiveness.

Youth Frontiers presented a number of skits and activities for students to participate in to help promote a positive, healthy school environment. Students from St. Francis High School also helped lead small group discussions and activities during the day, creating a link between the middle and high school buildings.

Youth Frontier’s mission states, “Inspiring character by empowering students to act with moral courage and identify the social fears and peer pressures that impede responsible decision-making. The retreat encourages them to take positive risks that make a healthy difference for themselves, their peers and your school. Participation in the retreat results in cognitive, attitudinal and behavioral shifts that decrease students’ distractions to learning and build a positive school community.”

Mackenzie Svihel, a seventh grade student who went on the retreat, stated, “I really liked the end of the retreat where we got to hear what other students are going through in their lives at the ‘pebble in the pond’ activity.”

The middle school has participated in the retreat for a number of years. Bobbi Hume, SFMS assistant principal said, “It is an extremely valuable experience for our students to help them understand how their behavior impacts others around them.”

For more information about The Courage Retreat, visit www.youthfrontiers.org/programs/courage-retreat/.

Making a difference – 7th grade students take civic learning to new heightstEd GEhrinGSFMS 7th grade SoCial StudieS teaCher

This school year, the new Minnesota State Social Studies Standards adopted last spring are being implemented in classrooms around our state. With these new standards in place, teachers across the district are finding new and creative lessons to address these changes.

At the seventh grade level, the new social studies standards added civic, economic and geography requirements to the American history survey course parents may faintly remember taking during their pre-teen years. These changes have allowed teachers to offer more hands-on learning experiences in our communities. When I introduced the idea of responsible citizenship and told students, “We will make a difference in our community

this year!” the room was electric.

Students brainstormed the largest issues affecting kids in our district. Although bike breaking potholes and homeless pets were discussed, the vandalized St. Francis Middle School sign and lingering safety concerns associated with crossing Highway 47 were at the top of every list. From these concerns, students were challenged to write a goal and civic action plan. The adopted goal by the seventh grade class is to, “make St. Francis (ISD 15) more kid-friendly by removing vandalism/litter and making Highway 47 safer to cross before and after school.” From this goal, students created the following civic action plan: Vandalism/litter}Take pictures of

vandalism/litter and write down the location of where it exists.

}Organize information into a report for school officials and a report for city officials.

}Ask school and city to act!

School Crosswalk}Find out if we have

safety patrol vests, sticks, etc.

}Write open letter to public asking

parents/volunteers to step up!Students have begun

working on the civic action plan outlined. To date, they have created a list of items which have been vandalized or broken at the middle school, held a student led meeting with middle school principals where these items were discussed and traveled to the St. Francis Elementary School during their study hall to remove litter from the playground. In the weeks to come, they will be finishing their list of community vandalism and begin preparing to attend a civic meeting to ask for the community’s help in making ISD 15 more kid-friendly.

Teacher SpotlightJESSiCA rowlESSFMS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

Mandy Littlefield is a new physical education teacher at St. Francis Middle School. She has been teaching for six years in the White Bear Lake and South Washington County school districts. Littlefield attended Bethel College and after graduating worked at a youth sports organization coaching and scheduling sports for eight years.

She is married and has three girls, Payton (12), Avery (9), and Macey (8).

Littlefield commented, “I love everything about my job. I love introducing new physical activities to kids and showing them how to incorporate fun with fitness. I am looking forward to getting to know more students and being a part of the St. Francis community.”

Fiction inspires T-shirtsJESSiCA rowlESSFMS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

On October 15, 7th grade students in Jessica Rowles’ language arts classes designed T-shirts based on a character from their class historical fiction novel titled, Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko. The book is about kids growing up on Alcatraz Island in the 1930s while their fathers worked as guards for the prison. Students worked on characterization while designing their T-shirts based on one of the major characters from the book. Students were encouraged to wear their shirts to class at the end of the unit.

Rowles stated, “Great T-shirt designs can be found in the display case near my classroom. Students had a great time wearing their character for the day.”

St. Francis Middle School students take part in an activity during the Courage retreat in october. SubMitted Photo

St. Francis Middle School students clean up St. Francis Elementary School’s playground prior to the start of the school day as part of their 7th grade civics requirements. SubMitted Photo

Mandy littlefield SubMitted Photo

St. Francis Middle School student Emily w. designs a t-shirt based on a character from her language arts class historical fiction novel. SubMitted Photo

2013 HOSA Fall Delegation ConferencekylE kEEhrSFhS hoSa Student

St. Francis High School Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) students attended the Minnesota Fall Delegation Leadership Conference November 7-8 in St. Paul. A total of 18 schools from around Minnesota gathered to elect their state representatives and learn about the medical field.

On November 7, students toured United Hospital in St. Paul and saw the pharmacy center, emergency entrance and the inside of an ambulance. A conference room was set up with nurses and doctors available to help students learn about various occupations in the medical field.

After the hospital tour, 10 student delegates from SFHS and about 40 other student delegates from other schools gathered in a conference room to elect their state officers for the 2013-14 year. SFHS students Cassy Stierns, Tiana Pederson, Lucas Niemeyer and Kylie Almendinger all ran for an officer position. Stierns was appointed the state secretary, Niemeyer was appointed MCR

representative for Minnesota HOSA and Pederson was appointed state president.

On November 8, HOSA offered speakers, exhibits and workshops for students. One speaker, Val Overton, RN DNP, from Fairview Medical Group, talked about the long winding journey to getting a career in the medical field. Angie Champange, a victim of a horrible attack, told her story of recovery and about the importance of fighting back and not letting something even worse happen. She started the organization, Fight Like A Girl, Angie’s Story, to help raise awareness of these situations and how to fight off attackers.

Workshops included: Inside the Operating Room by the Abbott OR team; Career Exploration – medical

assisting, germ experiment and career exploration discipline specific MLT lab exploration, blood typing, microbiology by Rasmussen College; Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics by Century College; Polymer Production – SLIME by Argosy University; Top 5 – Crisis Intervention and De-escalation by Argosy University; Mission Trips Self Defense by Bill Neiss; Spring Lake OEC, and Orthoptics by St. Katherine’s University.

The HOSA project for the next two years was announced. It will focus on raising money for cystic fibrosis research. Cystic fibrosis is a chronic disease that makes a thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and pancreas. DECA students hope to see you at their cystic fibrosis fundraisers.

Dodge, duck, dip, dive, dodgeCody wAld And hAyliE MCClunGSFhS deCa StudentS

If you weren’t at the DECA dodgeball tournament on November 7 at St. Francis High School, you were missing out! DECA is an acronym for Distributive Educational Clubs of America. Its members consist of 25-30 aspiring students who want to further their communication, business, and marketing skills. DECA dodgeball is the club’s annual fundraising event that helps raise money to lower the costs associated with being a member as well as contribute to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), DECA’s charity partner.

This year was one of a kind. One new addition to the tournament included an exciting glow-in-the-dark activity that players and spectators loved. In a pitch-black room, players could throw glow-in-the-dark dodgeballs while wearing glow sticks on their wrists and neck. This gave competitors something to do while waiting for their next round of play and spectators a fun diversion while waiting for their favorite team. Also, a speed ball round was added determining who could throw a dodgeball the fastest. Both spectators and competitors had fun with that as well. Lastly, DJ Johnny Castillo made the tournament a lot of fun by playing great songs the entire evening.

This was a very exciting tournament as 13 teams competed for T-shirts, chocolate chip cookies and the title of Dodgeball Champions. According to SFHS senior Jake Johnson, member of the Dream Team, “It was very fun and had a competitive atmosphere.” In addition, Alex Bauermeister, dodgeball competitor said, “The tournament was epic.”

Plans are underway to hold another dodgeball tournament in the spring of 2014. More improvements are being discussed to make it even more fun for everyone. We hope to see you there!


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St. FranCiS high SChool

SFhS speech and debate updateStEVE FEtzikSFhS debate teaM adviSor

The speech and debate teams at St. Francis High School (SFHS) have been ranked among the top five percent of programs in the nation, according to the National Forensic League (NFL). As a result, the school has been named a member to the league’s exclusive 200 Club.

The NFL oversees the forensic activities for speech, debate and student congress. Schools earn ranking based upon the number of individuals on the team, their success in competition and the accumulation of career points and degrees. Last year, the SFHS program achieved 200 or more degrees, allowing it to rank as one of the best in the nation.

“We are thrilled to be named one of the elite programs in the nation,” commented Steven Fetzik, debate coach at SFHS. “Our students are enthusiastic and committed to excellence in competition, and the results speak for themselves.”

“This milestone is remarkable because it demonstrates outstanding commitment to teaching students essential life skills including communication, research, listening, writing and organization,” commented J. Scott Wunn, NFL executive director.

“Our students are outstanding students and competitors,” noted Mark Thul, head speech coach at the SFHS. “We have strong student leaders who model the hard work that it takes

to succeed on a state and national level. Our younger members see this effort and make their own commitment to personal and team success.”

“The proof is in the results,” noted Lee Graves, the team’s assistant speech and debate coach. “We have some of the best kids in the nation. This is an honor that we have earned and will cherish for years to come.”

The SFHS Debate team is off to one of its strongest starts in a decade, according to Fetzik. The team has had competitors place at every tournament this year. “We are experiencing success on all levels of debate this year—varsity, junior varsity and novice. And it is not just one or two teams, either. At every tournament, it seems like a different group of competitors comes home with an award.”

This year’s team is lead by the varsity duo of Lauren Handzel and Megan Houle. Recently, the duo took fourth place at the Brainerd Invitational.

Not to be outdone, the junior varsity duo of Cassy Stierns and Joe Blom has stepped up their game. They took second place at the Brainerd Invitational and are setting their sights on more success down the road. “We really work well together,” noted Stierns. “We’re able to position our skills to gain the maximum results from our partnership.”

Perhaps the strongest part of the team are the novices—or beginning debaters. Novices

the dECA dodgeball 2013 champions are the dream team: Cody wald–dECA member, Jake Johnson–dECA member, taylor koep, Bryce kulsrud–dECA member, hunter trautman, Austin Carlson, dylan Schroeder and Coach Steven Anderson. SubMitted Photo

Continued, Page 12


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eaSt Bethel Community SChool

Student Council is up and running at East Bethel Community School. the student council representatives will be helping in many areas to keep our school a great place to learn and grow. they will be helping with the creation of thanksgiving baskets and continuing their work with Eagle Pride and Golden Eagle Feather counting. they played a roll in EBCS’s first rESPECt assembly of the year and are starting to plan the annual talent show. it is a packed agenda, but these students are up to the task!

CaSSie SChMoll, ebCS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

Grandparent’s day was held october 11 at East Bethel Community School. Students invited their grandparents to school for a meal, program and tour. nanCy ZaK, ebCS 4th grade teaCher

St. FranCiS high SChool

Senior Day preps students for life after graduationStEVEn FEtzikSFhS CoMMunity relationS Coordinator

St. Francis High School seniors took their first steps beyond high school recently during the school’s Senior Day. During the day, seniors came to the school Instructional Media Center (IMC) to meet with counselors, apply for colleges and meet with recruiters from the armed forces. David Banks studios also donated free photographs of the seniors and their career choices.

“Senior Day was awesome! It was great to see so many seniors participate and be excited to apply to college. We had a great turnout,

lots of great questions and a very good vibe from all the students. I think they appreciated being able to attend during school hours when they had so many great resources available,” observed Dawn Abraham, Career Center Director.

The idea originated in the school’s Career and Counseling Center as a way to encourage seniors to think and act on possible post-graduation plans. Representatives from Anoka-Ramsey Community College, St. Cloud State University, Southwest Minnesota State University, North Hennepin Community College, Concordia University and the University of St. Thomas were

on hand to help students apply for college. During October, all of Minnesota’s public colleges and universities allowed students to apply at no cost.

“Senior year is an emotional time of change. Students are making life decisions and to have school and community support provides them with resources to make positive choices toward their future,” said SFHS school counselor Jaymie Helle.

High school counselors were on hand to visit students and make sure they were on track for graduation.

“This year’s senior class seems to really be ahead of the game with regards to their future plans,” noted Guidance Counselor Jill Engquist.

“It was very impressive to learn that many of them had already applied to college, while others finished up their applications during Senior Day. Some students are set in their decision to join the military or enter the workforce and have their career plan well mapped out. Senior Day was a nice chance for the counselors

to ensure that our seniors are on track with their progress toward graduation with regards to credit status and graduation requirements.”

Overall, the event was a success. Students were able to check transcripts, solidify the process for college admissions, focus on career choice and have a fun time.

St. Francis high School counselor Jaymie helle (right) meets with a student during Senior day held october 30. SubMitted Photo

winning awards this year include Maddysen Belden and Cullen Hahn. The duo finished third at the Chanhassen Jubilee, the top early season tournament in the state. This success was subsequently followed with awards by other members of the team including Bailey Wilson, Brady Johnson, Mary Udomah, Austin Fields, Rebekah Hall and Haley Dorumsgaard.

Brady Johnson and Bailey wilson smile proudly after finishing 5th in the novice Public Forum debate division at Brainerd high School. SubMitted PhotoS

Cassy Stierns and Joe Blom show off the fruit of their debate efforts after finishing 2nd in the Varsity Public Forum division of the Brainerd high School debate tournament.

FroM Page 11

Speech and debate


School Board Highlights

SChool Board highlightS oCtober 28, 2013

kAthlEEn MillErStaFF Writer

SChool Board meeting SCheduleSchool board meetings are held at the Community room in the Central Services Center located at 4115 Ambassador blvd. Nw, St. Francis.

Monday, december 9Dialogue with School board 6:30 p.m. regular meeting 7:00 p.m.

Monday, January 13Dialogue with School board 6:30 p.m. regular meeting 7:00 p.m.

Monday, January 27Dialogue with School board 6:30 p.m. regular meeting 7:00 p.m.

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

SChool Board memBerSAmy Kelly, Chairwoman 763-744-8458

Janet glover, Vice Chairwoman 763-221-5341

David Anderson, Clerk 763-434-9457

harry grams, Treasurer 763-856-4350

Suzanne erkel, Director 763-413-1195

David roberts, Director 763-843-0013

marsha Van Denburgh, Director 763-753-6653

email: [email protected]

SChool Board perSpeCtive hArry GrAMS

I remember a conversation that I had with Troy Ferguson (ISD 15 school board member at the time) at a wrestling

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Director Harry Grams was absent.St. Francis high School Bleacher update

A concerned parent addressed the school board regarding the lack of hand railings on the high school bleachers. Human Resources Director David Lindberg reported that administrators are aware of the bleacher issue. Action taken so far includes requesting quotes to improve the safety of the bleachers, which were built in 1990. Accessibility mandates came in 1996, allowing bleachers built prior to be grandfathered. If any changes were to be made, bleachers would have to meet current accessibility specifications. Options discussed include adding rails to existing bleachers, expanding current bleachers and/or building new bleachers. Information will be presented to the school board at a later date. The hope is that a decision can be made and construction completed in time for the spring athletic season, but that remains uncertain at this time.St. Francis high School Food locker

High school students will hold a food drive November 4-15. Food Locker is a service to provide supplemental food and household supplies to students and families in the ISD 15 community. The foodshelf offers basic, non-perishable items as well as hygiene, household and school supplies. The program is intended to

be discreet and students can take items home in a backpack. Donations to stock shelves with food and supply items are also very much appreciated. Contact staff members Heidi Robinson ([email protected]) or Beth Widell ([email protected]) for more information. Emergency Action Plan

The ISD 15 Safety Committee recently reviewed and updated the district’s Emergency Action Plan, which was presented to the School Board by Human Resources Director David Lindberg. Emergency procedures are designed to provide guidance to those having responsibility for the safety of students, staff and users of school facilities. Continuing and meaningful efforts to prevent incidents that lead to emergency situations are the areas of greatest concern. District administrators and program supervisors have the primary responsibility for dissemination of emergency procedures to staff members. The Emergency Action Plan defines a chain of command

match in December of 2004. We were talking about individuals that were going to vacate their board positions at the end of the year in 2005. Troy asked if I’d be interested in running. I questioned his sanity and laughed at him.

Little did I know, I’d be writing this article in The Courier as my eighth and final year of being a school board member comes to an end. I have to say that Troy Ferguson, he’s a heck of a salesman (or I’m an easy sell). I don’t want this to be a sappy farewell article so I’ll just get down to

the point. Thank you to the

community for allowing me to be one of your board members. Although sometimes trying, I think the experience was a great one. I think that one of my failing attributes as a board member is to learn what all the district acronyms pertain to. I remember one of my first board meetings and listening to Mr. Saxton talk about DLT committee, SEE, LMC and other groups. I just remember looking at him as if he was speaking his own language. Eventually, I did catch on to

almost all of them. But seriously, I have been

fortunate to meet and work with many ISD 15 staff and administration personnel, along with getting to know your families. It is you folks that I will miss the most. It has been an honor to serve on several of the committees that I have been involved with, working with many talented district employees.

One of my favorite Bob Seger songs is Like a Rock. One of the verses states “Twenty years, where’d they go…twenty years, I don’t know...”

That’s kind of the way that I feel about the past eight years…where did they go?

When I started as a board member, I was a 42-year-old married man with three daughters in college and/or high school. Today I’m a 50-year-old married man that has three college graduates, two sons-in-law and one baby granddaughter. I hope everyone’s next eight years have been as fulfilling as my last eight.

Have a Merry Christmas and an even better New Year. Go Big Blue!

so that safety procedures are carried out in a coordinated manner. The plan, which will continue to be updated annually, was approved, 7-0.

SChool Board highlightS noveMber 11, 2013

PAt JohnSonStaFF Writer

All school board members were present.happenings Around the district

St. Francis High School (SFHS) Madrigal singers performed the National Anthem. SFHS interim Principal Rick Toso acknowledged the talents of the Madrigal singers and instructor Lucas Warren. Warren mentioned that the Madrigal singers performed at the Veterans Breakfast at the St. Francis American Legion the morning of November 11. They have been practicing for the Madrigal Dinners that run November 14-17. Students also sang a lighthearted song in Portuguese.

Site report lifelong learning Center

Early Childhood Family Education Program Supervisor Nancy Wallace and Early Childhood Special Education Program Supervisor Kristine Vogtlin presented an overview of programs housed at the Lifelong Learning Center. Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is funded by state dollars and fees. ECFE is for children birth to age five and their parents. It is important for young children to have a variety of experiences for growth.

The program works with local childcare centers and home daycares to help children prepare for kindergarten.

Vogtlin described special education services available. There are birth to age three home-based services that provide speech, language, physical and occupational therapy to approximately 40

children. Once those children reach the age of three, they transition into a classroom setting.

The program also facilitates early childhood screening, which may detect a condition that could affect a child’s learning.

The LLC provides an optimal learning environment and serve as a model for other districts. LLC staff are involved in ongoing professional development.

The program is working with two different grants through the Anoka County Children and Family Council. One grant’s goal is to reduce the number of children that need screening six months or less before kindergarten. They have worked with childcare providers and conducted onsite screenings. The other grant is a mental health initiative which helps manage children who

Continued, Page 14

is $1,314,806 which gives the district a total estimated balance of $2,176,143.

Human Resources Director David Lindberg has been working on estimating student count for the 2014-15 school year. He prepared a video on the model he implemented for attendance projections. Projected enrollment for the 2014-15 school year is down by 139 students. Factors include the declining birth rate in Anoka County, the number of possible students, students enrolled in private school, home school students and students attending other districts. Of the 1,700 open enrollment forms reviewed, three predominate factors surfaced: the location of the school building, better schools in other districts and families moving out of the district.other Matters

School board election results were reviewed and authorized. (See results on page 1.)

Multicultural group to celebrate hmong new yearCArlinE SArGEntiSd 15 MultiCultural/diverSity liaiSon

The Independent School District 15 Multicultural/Diversity program is planning on celebrating the Hmong New Year on Friday, December 13, 6:00-900 p.m. at St. Francis High School. A potluck supper (please bring a dish to share), entertainment and Hmong fashion show are planned. Please contact Carline Sargent by email carline.sargent@isd15.

org or call 763-213-1575 for more information.

The Hmong New Year celebration is an annual tradition where Hmong dress in traditional clothing and enjoy food, dance, music and other forms of entertainment. Hmong New Year celebrations frequently occur in November or December (traditionally at the end of the harvest season when all work is done), serving as a Thanksgiving holiday for the Hmong people.

Historically, the celebration was created to give thanks to ancestors and spirits as well as to welcome in a new beginning. Traditionally, the celebration lasts for 10 days, but has been shortened to three days in America due to the difference between the traditional Hmong farming schedule and that of the American 40-hour work week. It has also served the double purpose of a convenient meeting time for Hmong leadership, from the early days of China until now.

The Hmong New Year

celebration, based on both religious and cultural beliefs, takes place annually in every Hmong household. The celebration is to acknowledge the completion of the rice-harvesting season and the beginning of a new year so that new life can begin as the cycle continues. During this celebration, “wandering” souls of family members are called back to unite with the family. The young honor the old or in-laws, in a ritual of asking for blessings from elders of the clan.

During the Hmong New Year celebration, house spirits are honored. In addition, if a shaman is in the house, the healing spirits of She-Yee are honored and released to wander the land. With 10 dishes of food for each of the three days, the Hmong say “Eat 30.”

For more information on Hmong history and culture visit the Hmong Studies Internet Resource Center website at: www.hmongnet.org.

Source: Information in this article was found on Wikipedia.


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show significant behavioral problems.

The LLC was granted approximately $10,000 in ECFE scholarships from the Minnesota legislature. The program plans to use the money for preschool scholarships and focus on literacy and language. Superintendent report

Superintendent Ed Saxton commented on the heroin issue and the parent committee (St. Francis Community Drug Awareness) meeting taking place at the same time as the school board meeting. Assistant St. Francis Middle School Principal Bobbi Hume and Assistant SFHS Principal Susan Hagerty were the district’s representatives at that meeting. The group is also holding another meeting open to the public on November 21 at 7:00 p.m. in the SFHS Performing Arts Center. Saxton, St. Francis Police Chief Jeff Harapat and Interim Director of Curriculum Paul Neubauer will meet and discuss how they can work together on this problem. Neubauer, former SFHS principal, gave the board a synopsis of what the high school has been doing in

response to the problem. Two years ago, SFHS created an anonymous tip line. There were eight tips last year of which three were serious. In the past a canine unit was at the high school.

School board meetings are video streamed on the district website. During the last few meetings, there have been technical difficulties with the streaming process. The board discussed streaming options and decided to use Google+. Consideration of Visitors segment will be muted due to data privacy concerns.Administrative report

Business Services Director Scott Nelson gave the school board a timeline for the 2014-15 school year budget development. He reviewed the district’s preliminary unaudited general fund balance. The district has balances in three categories: assigned, which are district discretion monies; reserved, which are required by the state; unappropriated. The total assigned amount is $615,000, of that $240,000 is carry over, $75,000 is for bus purchase and $300,000 is for retirement. The reserved balance is $246,337. The unappropriated (some fiscal year 2012 funds are from excess special education funds)

FroM Page 13

School board

St. Francis high School students attended the 2013 Fall leadership Conference in Minneapolis. Students are shown making the dECA diamond symbol. At the conference, which was held october 26-27, students learned about the competitive events that will be offered throughout the year, strategies on how to do well in each event and information about various topics related to business and marketing. rebeCCa allard, SFhS deCa adviSor

ted Gehring, a seventh grade social studies teacher at the middle school dressed up as Abraham lincoln october 24 to recite two speeches for his classes for their Civil war unit. Many students were thrilled to see Abe in the hallways and in person in class. it really brought excitement to learning for the day. JeSSiCa roWleS, SFMSCoMMunity relationS Coordinator


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Saturday, February 8Broomball Tournament ..........9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

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Skate the Lake Pond Hockey Tournament ..................... 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Skijoring Race Start ........................... 10:00 a.m.Helicopter Rides

(weather permitting) .......10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.Sled Dog Rides ...................10:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.Ice Fishing Contest ..............11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.5K Walk/Run Arctic Challenge ........... 11:30 a.m.Sled Dog Race Start ........................... 11:00 a.m.Dog Pull Competition ..................................NoonVintage Snowmobile and Expo Rodeo .. 12:30 p.m.Snow Sculpture Judging ......................... 1:00 p.m.Final Awards Presentation .................... 1:45 p.m.

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Anoka County hosted a public information session November 6 at St. Francis High School regarding proposed roundabouts on Bridge Street. More than 40 residents and business owners attended to learn more about the project and voice concerns. Anoka County Highway Department officials and consultants from WSB & Associates, Inc. gave a presentation and answered questions.

Anoka County applied for and received federal funding in 2011 for the construction of two roundabouts on Bridge Street at Poppy Street/CR 72 and County Road 9. Total cost of the project is $2.5 million, with $1.35 million federally funded. The county and city will share the remainder of the cost.

According to Anoka County Highway Department officials, the project will improve safety and traffic flow. The roundabouts will be single lane and traffic will flow counter-clockwise. The proposed project will reduce access along the corridor and provide school buses, parents, teachers,

Bridge Street reconstruction project public information meeting heldstudents, business owners and patrons with a safer way to get in and out of their buildings.

Consultants Andrew Plowman and Derek Schmidt showed examples of buses and trucks easily maneuvering through roundabouts. They explained that roundabouts in other cities in Minnesota, including those near schools, have been successful.

There are more than 120 roundabouts throughout the state. Studies have shown that there are fewer and less severe crashes in roundabouts.

The reconstruction project, scheduled for the summer of 2015, would include a center median and walking trail on the north side of Bridge Street. Bridge Street would remain open during the construction.

Many questions were asked at the open house about alternatives such as four-way stops or stoplights. Anoka County Engineering Project Manager Curt Kobilarcsik said four-way stops and stoplights would create traffic backups and would not be covered by the federal grant, which is specifically for two roundabouts for safety and improved high-volume traffic flow.

In the current proposal, access to Kerry Street from Bridge Street would be closed. Officials explained that an intersection there would be a safety issue, but a right in right out option would be researched.

Pedestrian safety is another concern of residents. Input from the open house included looking into adding a walking path on the south side of Bridge Street and a pedestrian

tunnel. Suggestions from the open

house will be researched and a second project open house will be held next summer.

Several residents and business owners voiced their opposition to the project and asked what could be done to stop it. The St. Francis City Council must still approve the project.

For more information about the project visit

ww2.anokacounty.us/v3_highway/CSAH24/BridgeStreetRoundabouts.aspx or contact Curt Kobilarcsik, Anoka County engineering project manager, at [email protected] or 763-862-4223. The presentation and informational boards from the open house are also available on the county’s website.


> Obstetrics and gynecology care are available close to your home at Fairview Clinics – St. Francis.Richard Mayerchak, MD, and Robin Fischer, MD, specialize in routine and advanced obstetrics, including high-risk pregnancies. Both have training in pediatric care and family medicine.

> Call 763-502-3900 or visit fairview.org/stfrancisbabies to schedule an appointment today.

Fairview Clinics – St. Francis is located at 23671 St. Francis Blvd. NW.

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MeliSSA VojtASaintS Soccer BooSter cluB

After a successful inaugural season in the Mississippi 8 conference, all St. Francis High School (SFHS) soccer teams ended the season with winning records. At the end of the season many players were rewarded for their hard work and dedication.

The Saints for Soccer members donated more than 425 pounds of food and personal products to NACE, an emergency foodshelf in Anoka County. Thank you to

the 2013 girls and boys soccer teams at St. Francis high School had successful seasons. SuBmitted PhotoS

Saints soccer teams end season with banquet and awardsall players and families for participating and giving back to those in need.Awards given for Girls teams

Varsity awards – All-Conference to senior Makenna Sullivan, junior Jordyn Maas, sophomore Cassidy Day and freshman Justyne Schake; All-Conference Honorable Mention to sophomore Sammi Zgutowitz; Most Valuable Player to senior Makenna Sullivan; Leadership Award to sophomore Cassidy Day; Most Improved to freshman Emily Hewitt; Most Consistent to

sophomore Sammi Zgutowitz. The team received an

Academic All-Conference Silver Award for maintaining a grade point average of 3.4 or higher.

Captains for the 2014 girls soccer season were announced: Cassidy Day and Sammie Zgutowicz will lead the team.

The Junior Varsity team finished the year with a record of 11-3-2. Awards included: Most Valuable Player to Mariah Adams; Most Improved to Savhannah Berger; Most Dedicated to Megan Larson.

The B-Squad finished the season with a winning record of 10-3-1. Awards included: Leadership to Maddie Dreshar; Most Improved to Katie Sigfrinius and Hustle Award to Tori Pelkey.

The C Squad finished the season with a winning record of 6-3-4. Awards included: Improved Player to Autumn Schwintek; Spark Award to Hannah Bartell and She is Everywhere Award to Hailey Raze.

2013 Varsity Girls Soccer RecapThe 2013 SFHS girls varsity

soccer team completed the season with a record of 9 wins, 6 losses and 3 ties. Their conference record, in the new Mississippi 8 Conference, was 6-2-0, which put them in third place for the season. The girls lost to Coon Rapids in a shootout in the section semi-final game. The team was led offensively by senior Makenna Sullivan with 17 points, 15 goals and 2 assists, freshman Emily Hewitt with 8 points

2 goals and 6 assists, eighth grader Sydney Zygotic with 4 points, 4 goals and sophomore Sammie Zgutowicz with 4 points, 3 goals and 1 assist. The team was held together in defense by junior Tiera Solitros, sophomore Cassidy Day and freshmen Justyne Schake and Emma Street.

The Saints girls team will graduate two seniors this year. Awards given for Boys teams

Varsity awards – All Conference to seniors Blake Continued, Page 17



Warmest wishes this Christmas season

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Happy Holidays from all of us at

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May your Holidays be warm and cozy

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McReavy, Philip Kauffmann and Loshi Vue. All-Conference Honorable Mention to senior John Dreshar, junior Sam Wiita, junior Max Meyers and junior Christian Stenbak. Most Valuable Player to senior Phillip Kauffmann. Most Improved to freshman Jahred George; Fighting Saint Award to junior Sam Wiita and Most Dedicated to senior Blake McReavy. The team received the Academic All-Conference Silver Award for maintaining a grade point average of 3.4 or higher.

Captains for the 2014 boys soccer season were announced: Sam Wiita and Max Meyers will lead the team. 2013 Boys Varsity Soccer Recap

The 2013 SFHS boys varsity soccer team completed the season with a record of 7 wins, 9 losses and 1 tie. Their conference record, in the new Mississippi 8 Conference, was 4-4-1, which put them in 5th place for the season. The boys lost to Andover in the quarterfinal sections game. The team was led offensively by senior Loshi Vue, senior Philip Kauffmann, freshman Logan Daniels and sophomore Sade Sunderland. The team was held together in defense by senior Blake McReavy, senior Anthony Cole and junior Max Meyers.

The Saints boys team will graduate 7 seniors this year.

Congratulations on a great season to all Saints soccer players.

From Page 16

SoccerBetSy BenekeSherBurne national Wildlife refuge ViSitor SerViceS manager

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge’s annual Christmas Bird Count will be held December 21, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Coffee, hot chocolate and a breakfast snack will be served beginning at 7:00 a.m. at refuge headquarters, 17076 293rd Avenue (County Road 9) Zimmerman. Participants will receive route maps and can team up with other birders to carpool for the count.

Refuge headquarters will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., where a light lunch of chicken wild rice soup will be served. Please bring your own beverage, water and/or

snacks for the day, as well as binoculars and a field guide.

A wrap-up party/dinner will be held at Bailey Ray’s in Santiago from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Anyone wishing to come early or stay late to look for owls is encouraged to do so. Contact Dean Kleinhans prior to the count with your plans, email: [email protected] or call 763-389-1774.

For more information about the 114th Audubon Christmas Bird Count, visit birds.audubon.org/christmas-bird-count.

Note: Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge’s Winterfest event, normally scheduled for February, will not be held due to staff and budget cuts from the federal government sequestration.

Christmas Bird Count to be held December 21

file Photo



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For the past few months, Stepping Stone emergency housing (SSeh) family (guests, staff and Board) has been raising money for homeless youth in Anoka county. on october 25, julie jeppson, (right) SSeh’s Development Director, presented over $300 to hope4youth volunteers Skip hassman and Deb lande. hope4youth is much more than a youth drop-in site. they provide one meal per day, showers, computers and a central location where youth can feel safe, valued and supported. SuBmitted Photo

MARthA WeAVeRanoka county PuBlic information manager,

The staff of Anoka County’s Veteran Services Office is hosting a food drive for needy veterans during the holidays. Our heroes shouldn’t go hungry. The office, on the 2nd floor of the Anoka County Government Center, will be collecting donations of non-perishable food items. Our veterans have served us. Now it’s our turn to

serve them!Anoka County Veteran Services will be

accepting donations through the holidays. Veterans in need should visit the Anoka County Veteran Services Office to get food items as well.

Any veteran who donates a non-perishable food item to our office will receive up to two tickets to the Veterans Game Day Army vs.. Navy viewing party on Saturday, December 14, at Bunker Hills Golf Course.

Anoka County Veteran Services holding food drive

MARthA WeAVeRanoka county PuBlic information manager

Due to new federal regulations, passport applications will no longer be accepted at the Blaine and Ramsey License Centers.

Blaine Passport Center now openA new Blaine Passport

Center opened November 1 and will be the only Anoka County facility accepting passport applications. It is located adjacent to the Blaine License Center at 10995 Club West Parkway, Suite 700b, in Blaine.

Due to limited office space and staffing levels, customers are strongly encouraged to make an appointment to submit a passport application. Go to anokacounty.us/passports to use the convenient

online appointment scheduler or call 763-323-5777. Walk-ins will be accepted only if an appointment slot is open. Note: it takes approximately 15 minutes per applicant to process an application.

Blaine Passport Center hours of operation:

Monday-Wednesday-Friday: 9:00 a.m.-noon and 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Tuesday-Thursday: 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Closed Saturday and Sunday


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

A unique holiday shopping experience for children birth to kindergarten.

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

your child shopping while you wait. Gifts are reasonably priced.

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

beverages will be available for purchase.

Join us Friday, December 6

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

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Shop the Scholastic Book Fair.

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on november 11, Saint Francis christian School presented a Veterans Day program titled “Veterans, We thank you.” With over 100 in attendance, including 19 veterans, the students of SFcS performed a variety of patriotic songs and speeches. the program was the school’s way of expressing their thanks to the veterans who served our country. the program also featured a special challenge from captain john Shay (Squadron chaplain; 1-94cAV, Army national Guard). captain Shay explained what true service looks like as explained in the Bible. the program finished with all students singing God Bless America. We thank our veterans for their sacrificial service. SuBmitted Photo

Apply to college for free at Anoka-Ramsey, Anoka TechtinA PeRPichanoka-ramSey community college

Anoka Technical College and Anoka-Ramsey Community College continue to strive to enhance access to higher education by no longer requiring a $20 application effective October 25.

The free application announcement and the two-year tuition freeze are part of the colleges’ continued effort to keep college costs to a minimum.

Anoka-Ramsey and Anoka Tech will continue to waive the application fee indefinitely.


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East Bethel and Oak Grove Fire Departments visit kindergarten studentsloRi AllARDcccS kindergarten teacher

Kindergartners at Cedar Creek and East Bethel Community Schools had a visit from the East Bethel and Oak Grove Fire Departments on October 10. Firefighters shared many fire safety rules with students and showed the equipment they wear during a fire. The kindergartners also had a chance to see a fire truck up close. They were able to see all of the interesting tools used to put out fires and students even had a chance to sit inside the fire truck. The children learned a lot from the firefighters and were appointed Junior Firefighters with a fire hat. A big thanks goes out to the East Bethel and Oak Grove Fire Departments for their great work!

Fundraisers, BeneFits, events

Saturday, December 7Light it Up Elk River, a community tree

lighting ceremony in Rivers Edge Commons Park in Downtown Elk River will be held December 7, activities beginning at 4:30 p.m. The Land of Lakes Choir Boys will be caroling, Mayor John Dietz will make remarks and then light the tree. Unwrapped toys and donations will be collected for Gifts Anonymous. The event is sponsored by Rivers Edge Downtown Business Association.Monday, December 9

Tasty Pizza is having their 26th annual customer appreciation spaghetti dinner on Monday, December 9, 4:00 p.m. until gone. Tasty Pizza is located at 3220 Bridge Street NW in St. Francis (across from St. Francis High School).tuesday, December 10

The Red Cross Bloodmobile will be at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 19921 Nightingale Street in Oak Grove, 1:30-7:30 p.m. To schedule an appointment, please call Caron at 612-282-5372 or Sue at 612-845-8459. Walk-ins are also

welcome after 2:00 p.m.Saturday, December 14

Celebrate the Season in downtown Elk River at The Rivers Edge Downtown Holiday Celebration December 14 from noon to 3:00 p.m. Take Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Live Reindeer will be frolicking in Rivers Edge Commons Park. Mail letters to Santa in his special downtown mailbox. Bring an unwrapped toy so we can fill Santa’s Sleigh with gifts for Gifts Anonymous. Santa will have gift bags for the first 300 children. The event is sponsored by Rivers Edge Downtown Business Association, city of Elk River Park and Rec, First National Bank of Elk River and The Bank of Elk River. For more information contact Wendy Simenson, Kemper Drug at 763-441-1353.Friday, December 27

The Red Cross Bloodmobile will be at St. Francis United Methodist Church, 1:30-6:30 p.m. Call 763-753-2273 for more information or to make an appointment.

kindergartners from lori Allard’s class had a chance to see the fire truck up close. SuBmitted Photo



Sara D. Sauer, C.P.A.

Holiday Wishes from all of us at

Teddy Bear Care

May your Holidays be

Beautiful and Bright

St. Francis Collision & Glass

May your home be filled with warmth this Christmas

Season.

from all of us at

St. Francis Dental

Valerie L. TempCertified Public Accountant St. Francis Area

Urban’s IsantI Hardware403 W Dual Blvd. Isanti, MN 55040763-444-9200M-F 8 am-8 pm • Sat 8 am-5:30 pm • Sun 10 am-4 pm

Parents and children are invited Sunday, December 1

11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.Jolly old St. Nicholas lean your ear this way.

We are inviting all the kids on this special day. Christmas time is coming soon.

So let’s take some photos of Santa Claus and you.Rusty’s Photography will be offering

photo packages.Parents are invited to bring their own cameras.

Join us for fun and treats!

Holidays are… Times of reflection

Times for good cheer Times for family and friends

During this special time of year we cordially invite the public to

Urban’s Isanti Hardware Saturday, November 30 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Small Business Customer

Appreciation Day

Register

for prizes

Sample treats

Shop our Holiday

Sale!

Major Mike Starr, United States Army (retired) presents lt. col. Walt hiller, United States Air Force (retired) with a commemorative photograph as a thank you for serving as the guest speaker at the St. Francis lions club’s Veterans Breakfast november 11 at St. Francis American legion. hiller gave the crowd of 48 veterans and 28 guests a descriptive presentation of what it was like to be a pilot in the 1960s. hiller flew 285 transport missions in and out of Vietnam. A select group of St. Francis high School band and choir members entertained the crowd with patriotic songs at the annual free breakfast for veterans. the courier

Send Holiday cheer anywhere in the world!

Elaine’s Flowers & Gifts IIwww.elainesflowersandgifts.net

303 Credit Union Drive in Isanti

763.444.4022

Christmas centerpieces,

gifts and decor for the

holidays.

Kraig Domogalla“Your Real Estate Specialist”

763-767-1231 Results

EachofficeIndependentlyOwnedandOperated


23212 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite 700St. Francis, MN 55070Hwy. 47 by County Market

Call 763-753-8000 to reserve the party room or for a takeout order.

Jumbo wings, Angus Beef burgers, seafood, Prime Rib Sandwich and more.

Full Bar • Game Room • Party RoomWhere game time meets family time

Monday Kids Eat FREE

4-8 pm, (12 & under) with adult purchase

Tuesday All-You-Can-Eat

Boneless Wings $12.99 Traditional Wings $13.99

Wednesday Burger Basket $5.99

Trivia starts at 7:00 p.m.

Book your Holiday ParTy!

in our party room

Bingo every Thursday starting at 6:30 p.m.

Free CHili Bar

during half-time of Vikings Games

We Can CaTer your ParTy!We will be closed Christmas Day.

Sponsored by the St. Francis Elementary School APT

A fun shopping opportunity

for KIDS!Kids are accompanied by

Santa’s elves who will help them shop for moms, dads, grandmas,

grandpas, and siblings.

Gifts range in price from $1 to $5, are all pre-wrapped and ready to give.

There will be free refreshments and craft vendors.

Join us Saturday, December 7 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

St. Francis Elementary School22919 St. Francis Boulevard NW • St. Francis

St. Francis American Legion Post 622

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

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

Monday NEW Bucket/Pizza Night Specials

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

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

Thursday ALR Wing Night

Friday Meat Raffle ��6 p�m� Karaoke with Music Box

Saturday Karaoke with Music Box

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

Breakfast with Santa December 7 • 9:00-11:30 a.m.Sponsored by St� Francis Lioness/Lions Club�Bring a camera to take pictures with Santa�

We will be closed Christmas Day.

Live Music! with the Dirty Dog Duo

Saturday, december 21 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 7Cedar Creek Community School

8:30 a.m.-NoonCost: $2 for children (12 and under);

Children 2 and under free; $4 for adultsPancakes, sausage, milk, juice, coffee

No reservations needed.Sponsored by Cedar/East Bethel Lions and Lioness

Bring your camera for pictures with Santa.

The Girl SCouTS will have a SaNTa Shop! For a minimal charge, children can shop for parents, grandparents, etc.

Donations of used eyeglasses and items for the food shelf would be appreciated.

ReBeccA AllARDSfhS BuSineSS and marketing education inStructor

St. Francis High School’s Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) business and marketing club has expanded its school store in response to requests by students, staff and community members for more district spirit gear options. Requests to add personalization, names and numbers, custom sizes, custom colors, a choice of

lettering and school logos have been received. There have also been requests to carry clothing for family members, babies, toddlers, etc., in addition to water bottles, coffee cups, hats, gloves and jackets.

Any staff member, student or community member will have access to not only the store at the high school, but to two additional online sites for school spirit gear.

These new options offer the ability to pay online and discounted pricing.

See items in person at the school store at St. Francis High School. For online options visit www.mylocker.net/minnesota/saint-francis/saint-francis-high-school or www.bsnteamsports.com, access code is saints6JZ. BSN Sports offerings change every three weeks. MyLocker is offering a $10 coupon by using promo code FL13ML at checkout. Offer expires December 15, 2013.

Profits from the school store go to the DECA club to help cover the cost of student travel to competitions. A portion of sales also goes toward the Muscular Dystrophy Association, DECA’s charity partner.

For more information about the school store and its offerings contact, Rebecca Allard at 763-213-1661 or email [email protected].

St. Francis high School expands spirit wear offerings

24 hoUR toWinG & RecoVeRy 763-434-1686

www.gerdinauto.com763-753-4993

St. Francis • 3128 Bridge StreetServing this community since 1977

We install

Remote Start Systems �� from $339

Have news or photos to share with us?

Email to [email protected]

Get community and school news sooner!Follow The Courier

on Facebookfacebook.com/isd15courier


Daily SpecialS Pull Tabs, Bingo &

Meat Raffle Saturday and Sunday

SERVING BREAKFAST 9:00 a.m.-Noon

Monday All day is Happy HourTuesday $1.50 Tacos

(Dine in Only) Wednesday All day 50¢ Wings

(Dine in Only) Weekly drawings at 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday through Sunday Now Serving Broasted Chicken after 5:00 p.m.

Thursday All-U-Can-Eat RIBS $14.95, Rib-Eye Special $15.95 5:00-9:30 p.m. • Karaoke/DJ

Friday All-U-Can-Eat RIBS $14.95 or Fish Dinner $10.95, Rib-Eye Special $15.95 5:00-9:30 p.m. Karaoke/DJ

Saturday Bingo 2:00 p.m. Meat Raffle, Rib-Eye Special $15.95 5:00-9:30 p.m. • Karaoke/DJ

Sunday Sports on the big screen, $1.00 Off Chicken Dinner, Happy Hour & Free Lunch during Vikings games

patriot laneS Bar anD GrillCheck us out at patriotlanesbarandgrill.com

3085 Bridge Street St. Francis

763-753-4011Hours 11:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.

BowlinG Special on Sundays, christmas Day, and new year’s Day

$1.50 per game

new year’S eve party Here!

call to sign up for Moonlight Bowling

win prizes!Moonlight Bowl Saturdays 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 15 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Come visit with Santa Enjoy hot cocoa, apple cider and cookies. Kids under 12 will receive a small gift from Santa

and a photo. bowl free during the event, lanes permitting.

Sign up for mixed couples leagues, starts in January.

Join us Fridays in December for 21+ free bowling with

purchase, 4 pm to midnight

www.e-peoplesbank.com

Member FDIC

East Bethel 763-434-4462Princeton 763-389-4350 Cambridge 763-689-1212

East Cambridge 763-691-1341Edina 952-831-8253St. Paul 651-291-5777

Want to get those home improvement projects done before the snow flies?

Peoples Bank is now offering a fixed rate, no closing cost home loan.

Cindy dorfner 763-234-4661Keller Williams “Classic Realty”[email protected]

How Much is Your Home Worth?

Contact me today to schedule a free Market Analysis of your home!

Now is a great time to make that move!

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

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

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

• Accounting & Bookkeeping Services

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kAthy BeRkneSSadminiStratiVe aSSiStant, anoka conSerVation diStrict

St. Francis High School science teacher DC Randle has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) Teacher Award. The MASWCD recognizes outstanding teachers of natural resource conservation. The Anoka Conservation District nominated Randle for the award, which he will receive at the MASWCD Awards Luncheon at the Double Tree Hotel in Bloomington on December 2.

According to Anoka Conservation District Water Resource Specialist Jamie Schurbon, “Mr. Randle strives to teach beyond the textbook and get students involved hands-on. While a trip into his creature-filled classroom is a field trip in itself, his students also don waders, paddle canoes, and even fly to the rain forest. Combined with his energy and passion, the experiences in Mr. Randle’s classroom are not soon forgotten by students. His curriculum has not only taught students about natural resources, but also motivated them outside the classroom. Some have even pursued natural resources careers. Therefore, the Anoka Conservation

District staff and supervisors believe Mr. Randle is deserving of the MASWCD Teacher Award.”

Outlined below are a few of Randle’s programs that illustrate his teaching approach: } rum river Biomonitoring – For

the last 15 years, Randle has taken 1,224 students wading in the Rum River to monitor river health. The work is done with and for the Anoka Conservation District, which benefits from having “many hands” to capture and identify aquatic insects and other macroinvertebrates. The students gain from working with professionals on a project that will be applied beyond the classroom.

} rum river Float trip – The Rum River is one of Randle’s favorite classrooms, perhaps because it is one of Minnesota’s seven wild, scenic and recreational rivers. Annually he takes classes on float trips down the river. Curriculum is integrated into the trip. On one recent trip, the students inventoried non-point source pollutant sources.

} Peruvian rainforest research – Randle takes students to participate in a long-term research project in the rainforests of Peru. This international travel for select students is the opportunity of a

lifetime. While it may not seem directly applicable to Minnesota, collecting and analyzing data in some of the most threatened ecosystems of the world is motivation for conservation in our own backyard. Some students use it as a resume builder for a planned natural resources career.

} Wildlife Science Center – For a more local look at wildlife research, Randle’s classes visit the Wildlife Science Center in nearby Forest Lake. Here, in the largest metro wildlife management area, they see wolves and other wildlife, and learn directly from managers and researchers.

} Cedar Creek ecosystem Science reserve – Randle’s classes visit the University of Minnesota’s world-class, nine-square mile, ecological research facility in northern Anoka County to peer into the state’s plant communities. Students see Minnesota’s three major biomes and learn why they are important. In response to this honor, Randle

replies, “I just want to share about Minnesota’s natural history and help students ensure that we have these intact environments for many generations in the future.”

St. Francis High School teacher wins state award

Dc Randle file Photo

New Life! Lutheran Church to present live nativityPAStoR jeFFRey BeRGMAnneW life! lutheran church

New Life! Lutheran is celebrating the sixth year of our annual drive-through Live Nativity. The church is excited to offer this special experience again and this year we will be offering a chili dinner to all who attend. The live nativity will run from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 14. People from all over the area will be able to step back some 2,000 years to see the live reenactment of the night of Jesus’ birth. Along with Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds and wise men, there will be live animals and carolers. Visitors are welcome to drive through and see the nativity, or there will be an option for parking and an area to take your time and walk past the live scene. Please come with your family and friends and join us for chili, coffee, hot chocolate, hot cider and Christmas cookies inside the church building after your visit to the live nativity.

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

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


3921 277th Ave NW, Isanti, MN, 763-444-5315 www.longlakeluth.org

All are welcome to the 18th Annual

Live NAtivity“One Night in Bethlehem”Saturday, December 7 4:00-7:30 p.m.Join us in Bethlehem to meet the characters and animals who participated in the Savior’s birth. Chicken Wild Rice Soup and Chili will be served.Grandma’s Attic will be open with crafts and gently used treasures.

LIve NAtIvIty WORShIp SeRvICe One Service Only Sunday, December 8 • 9:30 a.m.Join us for breakfast following the worship service.

ChILDReN’S ChRIStMAS pROGRAM“Angel Alert”Sunday, December 15 • 9:30 a.m.

AdveNt Worship servicesWednesdays, December 4, 11, 18Soup Suppers 5:30-6:45 p.m.Service 7:17 p.m.

christmAs Worship servicesChRIStMAS eve4:00 p.m. Cantata Service “From the heart of God” 10:30 p.m. Candlelight Worship Service ChRIStMAS DAy 9:30 a.m.pastor Matt Flom and pastor Bryan taffe

Long Lake Lutheran Church ELCA

Saturday, December 21 Free christmas concert open to the public

7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, December 24 christmas eve Services

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

Pastor Brian Mundt

5730 179th Lane Nw (highway 47 and County road 27)

ramsey, mN763-753-2057

www.crossofhope.net

Join us in our Christmas Conspiracy to:

LivingHopeEFC.org 763.753.1718 a small, imperfect, beautiful church community in St. Francis, MN

Worship Fully Spend Less Give More Love All

long lake lutheran church hosted a trunk ’n treat october 31. it was one of the biggest events to date with 21 trunks handing out candy to more than 150 children during the three-hour event. thanks to county Market of St. Francis and Riverside Market for the generous gift cards. isanti Rental donated a bounce house that was a hit with all the kids. there was also a costume parade and games to play. Food was collected for the Family Pathways Food Shelf. SuBmitted

new life! lutheran will hold a live nativity December 14. Visitors are also invited to a chili dinner inside the church. SuBmitted Photo

Alumni Variety Show

St. Francis High School alumni, with the help of the local chapter

of the International Thespian Society, will present a variety show, with a holiday theme.

Proceeds will benefit St. Francis High School Drama productions

and scholarships.

The St. Francis High School Drama Department Presents

Tuesday, December 177:00 p.m.

St. Francis High School Performing Arts Center

3325 Bridge Street NW • St. Francis$10 Adults

$8 Senior Citizens/Students/ChildrenBring items to donate to the

Anoka County Emergency Foodshelf or Toys for Tots and save $2 per ticket.

For more information, call 763-213-1527.


Our SaviOur’SLutheran ChurCh & PresChooL

Hope Found Here! You Will Be Welcomed!

Worship With us Sunday Services at 8:00, 9:15 &10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Power Up Services at 6:30 p.m. Dinner at 5:30 p.m.

Christmas Eve Worship12:30, 2:30, 4:30, 9:00 & 10:30 p.m.

Communion at all Services

Christmas Day at the Chapel in Ham Lake, 8:30 a.m.

19001JacksonStreetNE•EastBethel West County Road 22

south on Jackson Street

Forinformationcall763-434-6117

Visitwww.oursaviourslc.org

[email protected]

ELC

A

St. Francis United

Methodist Church

A Community Dedicated to Seeking Christ and Serving Others

Pastor Kevin Coder3914-229th Avenue • St. Francis

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

“Christmas Classics” sermon seriesSunday, December 1

Hanging of the Greens • 10:30 a.m.Sunday, December 8

Christmas Classics: It’s A Wonderful Life • 10:30 a.m.Sunday, December 15

Children’s Program • 10:30 a.m.Sunday, December 22

Christmas Classics: How the Grinch Stole Christmas • 10:30 a.m. Blue Christmas Service • 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, December 24 Christmas Eve Soup Supper Open to all 5:30 p.m.

Christmas Eve Service: A Charlie Brown Christmas 7:00 p.m.Sunday, December 29

Christmas Classics: A Christmas Story • 10:30 a.m.Continue sharing gifts with others. The Red Cross Bloodmobile

will be here Friday, December 27 • 1:30-6:30 p.m.Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. • 6th grade – adult

Sunday School at 10:00 a.m. • 5th grade and underWednesdays at 7:00 p.m. • Adult small groups

Faith ListingsBethel community church23860 Dewey Street NW

Bethel • 763-434-9834

cross of hope lutheran church 5730-179th Lane NW

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

First Baptist church & christian School k–12

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

living hope evangelical Free church

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

long lake lutheran church 3921 277th Avenue NW

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

new life church 17261 St. Francis Boulevard NW

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

nowthen Alliance church 19653 Nowthen Boulevard Nowthen • 763-441-1600

www.nowthenalliance.org

our Saviour’s lutheran church 19001 Jackson Street NE

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

St. Francis United Methodist church 3914 229th Avenue NW

St. Francis • 763-753-2273 www.stfrancis-umc.com

St. Patrick catholic church 19921 Nightingale Street NW

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

the Bridge 6443 Norris Lake Road

Nowthen • 763-516-5995 www.sfbridge.org

West Bethel United Methodist church

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

763-441-1600 • www.nowthenalliance.org

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

The Christmas Star

The Christmas Star

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

Weekly Sunday Services8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship

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

RAlPh ShePPARDPreSident, friendS of hiStoric St. John’S, inc.

The Friends of Historic St. John’s, Inc., has had as its primary purpose the restoration, preservation and maintenance of one of Isanti County’s nine National Register of Historic Places, St. John’s (German) Lutheran Church of Bradford. Among several St. John’s restoration projects, one that has proved to be the most difficult from the standpoint of approval and fundraising efforts to final

new doors were installed in September at historic St. john’s lutheran church of Bradford. the public is invited to see the restoration january 12 during the lessons and carols programs. SuBmitted

Doors replaced at historic St. john’s lutheran church of Bradfordpurchase and installation, has been the prolonged effort to replace the rotting and damaged front entryway doors.

Following expansive discussions with the preservation program specialists at the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (part of the Minnesota Historical Society), combined with an energetic fundraising program, new doors were purchased and final installation took place during the week of September 22. The custom-made natural Douglas

fir doors, protected by long-lasting and durable marine spar varnish, together with period matching hardware, now provide a spectacular addition to the entry of the historic church.

The first public viewing of the new doors was at the annual Das Beste OktoberFest fundraiser, successfully held September 28.

The next public viewing will be January 12, during the annual Lessons and Carols programs: Candlelight in English at 5:00 p.m. and German Lessons and Carols in the German language, of course, at 2:00 p.m. Mark your calendars now and check out this spectacular restoration.

Since organizing the Friends of Historic St. John’s back in 2004, Historic St. John’s Lutheran Church of Bradford

has been resurrected from the point of near fatal decay to where the historic church has now become one of the most treasured historical sites in all of Isanti County.

Historic St. John’s Lutheran Church of Bradford is located at 900 County Road 5 NW, just 2½ miles west of Isanti. Follow Historic St. John’s on Facebook.


RegulaR WORSHIP SCHeDuleSunday

Blended Worship 8:45 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School during Blended Worship except the 2nd Sunday of the month, which is Family Worship.

WednesdayMidweek Worship 6:00 p.m.

famil¼ mile west of Highway 65 on

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

CHRISTMAS SERMON SERIES “JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM”

Wednesday advent Worship 5:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.

(meal provided from 5:45–6:45 p.m.) december 11 - “king herod” december 18 - “the Shepherds”

Christmas Eve Worship2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

“The Family”

Christmas Day Worship 10:00 a.m.

“With a Flesh and Blood Savior”

Journey To BethlehemExperience

The bustling market place

The pageantry of King Herod’s Palace

Simple shepherds tending their flocks

Angel voices piercing the silent sky

Wise men seeking answers

The Miracle in the stable!

December, 6, 7, 8 indoor Setting Free Admission

friday & Saturday 5:00–8:00 p.m. Sunday 2:00–5:00 p.m.

1 hour tours depart every 6 minutes Plan to arrive 1 hour before closing

Optional donations to NACE Food Pantry

¼ mile west of Highway 65 on Constance Boulevard, (CR 20/60)

16345 Polk St. ne ham lake, mn 55304763.434.7337 www.foclutheran.org

funded in part by:

Celebrate Christmas With Us!

Tuesday, December 24

Christmas Eve Services 5:00 and 9:00 p.m.

Regular Sunday Worship 8:30 and 10:00 a.m.

St. Andrew Lutheran Church

Highway 65 and 237th Avenue NE, East Bethel – Cooper’s Corner

763-434-7146

Zion Lutheran Church & School of Crown

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

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

TheLuTheRaN ChuRChMiSSouRi SyNod

Zion’s Advent & Christmas Schedule

Advent Services Wednesdays, December 4, 11 and 18 ��7:00 p�m� Dinner will be served from 5:30-6:30 p�m� Sunday School Christmas Program Sunday, December 15 �� 9:00 a�m� Brunch will be served after the Service Crown Christian School Christmas Program Thursday, December 19 ��7:00 p�m�Christmas Eve Candle Light Service Tuesday, December 24 ��7:00 p�m�Christmas Day Worship Service Wednesday, December 25 ��9:00 a�m�

Rev. Jacob Dandy

i hate when that happens RAnDy GeRDin aSe certified technician

The light is on again!Vehicles these days have

a lot of different warning lights. There are check engine, anti-lock brake, tire pressure monitor, lamp out, charging system engine temperature,

washer fluid low, fuel light, oil light, door ajar, fuel cap, air bag and I am sure there are many others I cannot think of right now.

Each light does indeed mean something specific; however, there are some lights

that may mean many different things. We had a customer drop in the other day to have the air pressure checked in the tires. Our tech was surprised to find one tire with more than 75 pounds of air.

Most cars normally have around 32 pounds, so this seemed very curious. Well, we adjusted the air pressure and informed the customer that the correct air pressure for the vehicle is located on the tire placard in the driver’s side door jamb, which we pointed out. It still was a curiosity as to why one tire had so much air.

We forgot about it and the other morning, one of our service advisors was at a gas station and noticed someone adding air to one of the tires. He added air then went and looked at the dash, then added more air, looked at the dash and repeated this a couple more times.

As the service advisor traveled to work, he started thinking about what that person was doing and why. Then it occurred to him that the low tire light must have come on and he was adding air until the light went out. Then the service advisor remembered the person that came in with the 75 pounds of air in the tire.

Unfortunately, the system does not work like that. The system not only can tell if the air is low, but also if the air pressure is too high, which causes the light to be on. In some cases, driving the vehicle for a certain distance with the correct air pressure will turn the light off. In other cases, there is a certain procedure that must be done in order for the light to be reset. Sometimes a special computer is required to interface with the vehicle’s computer and reset the tire light that way. Another reason the light could be on is if the internal battery that is in the sensor in the tire/wheel assembly goes dead. So again, this is one of those lights that can have numerous reasons to be on.

The check engine light can come on for hundreds of reasons. You may have the vehicle repaired to turn the check engine light off and then in another week, the light may turn on again, but this time for a completely different cause.

Each vehicle is somewhat different and it may take slightly different circumstances to illuminate a particular light. We frequently hear, “Don’t worry about the (whatever) light, it has been on for months.”

Any light that is on may be the key to diagnosing a problem. Sometimes we have a vehicle brought in with 5-8 different codes stored in the computer memory, no telling how long the light has been on and which problem triggered the symptom the driver is concerned with. If the anti-lock brake light is on or the airbag light is on, these critical systems will not work at all.

I had a gentleman in the other day telling me that the airbag light was on in his daughter’s vehicle and he had not gotten around to getting it repaired. In the meantime, she was involved in a significant accident that totaled her vehicle. Fortunately, she had her seat belt on and was not hurt, but she could have been.

All these lights do come on for a reason. If the light is on, there is a problem. It is our recommendation to not ignore any light that is on. You never know if a serious problem would occur in the same system and you would not know it because the light is already on. I hate when that happens.

file Photo


I can help you make sure your coverage is up–to–date. Call me today.

(763) 434–5079

JOLYNN K ERIKSON 21471 ULYSSES ST NE EAST BETHEL [email protected]

Insurance subject to availability and qualifications. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, Illinois © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Blake A CheeleyFinancial Advisor

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

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

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

FinanciaL Focus BlAke cheeley edWard JoneS financial adViSor

Larry D. Anderson, GRIReALtoR®

23038 Rum River Boulevard NWSt. Francis, Minnesota 55070

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

Fax: (763) [email protected]

www.results.net/larry.andersonEach Office Independently Owned and Operated

Assumptions can be dangerous to investors

Every day of our lives, we make assumptions. We assume that the people we encounter regularly will behave in the manner to which we are accustomed. We assume that if we take care of our cars, they will get us to where we want to go. In fact, we need to make assumptions to bring order to our world. But in some parts of our life—such as investing—assumptions can prove dangerous.

Of course, not all investment-related assumptions are bad. But here are a few that, at the least, may prove to be counter-productive: } “Real estate will always

increase in value.” Up until the 2008 financial crisis, which was caused, at least partially, by the housing bubble, most people would probably have said that real estate is always a good investment. But since then, we’re all more painfully aware that housing prices can rise and fall. That isn’t to say that real estate is always a bad investment—as a relatively small part of a diversified portfolio, it can be appropriate, depending on your goals and risk tolerance. But don’t expect endless gains, with no setbacks.

} “Gold will always glitter.” During periods of market volatility, investors often flee to gold, thereby driving its price up. But gold prices will fluctuate, sometimes greatly, and there are risks in all types of gold ownership, whether you’re investing in actual bars of gold or gold futures or the stocks of gold-mining companies.

} “I can avoid all risks by sticking with CDs.” It’s true that Certificates of Deposit (CDs) offer a degree of preservation of principal. But they’re not risk-free; their rates of return may be so low that they don’t even keep up with inflation, which means you could incur purchasing-power risk.

} "The price of my investment has gone up — I must have made the right decision.” This assumption could also be made in reverse — that is, you might think that, since the price of your investment has dropped, you must have made the wrong choice. This type of thinking causes

investors to hold on to some investments too long, in the hopes of recapturing early gains or selling promising investments too soon, just to “cut their losses.” Don’t judge investments based on short-term performance; instead, look at fundamentals and long-term potential.

} “If I need long-term care, Medicare will cover it.” You may never need any type of long-term care, but if you do, be prepared for some big expenses. The national average per year for a private room in a nursing home is nearly $84,000, according to a recent survey by Genworth, a financial security company. This cost, repeated over a period of years, could prove catastrophic to your financial security during your retirement. And, contrary to many people’s assumptions, Medicare may only pay a small percentage of long-term care costs. You can help yourself by consulting with a financial professional, who can provide you with strategies designed to help cope with long-term care costs. You can’t avoid all

assumptions when you’re investing. But by staying away from questionable ones, you may avoid being tripped up on the road toward your financial goals.

ServiceS include: Individual Income Taxes • Business Taxes

Tax Planning • Quickbooks & Peachtree Assistance

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

Ham Lake, MN 55304

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

AMAnDA VickStRoManoka county attorney’S office

The Anoka County Board of Commissioners approved a purchase of service agreement with TriTech Systems for the first and largest of three contracts needed to build a new integrated public safety data system. The Anoka County Joint Law Enforcement Council (JLEC), in partnership with the Anoka County Fire Protection Council, and the Board’s Public Safety Committee unanimously approved the contract on October 30.

The new public safety data

Integrated Anoka County Public Safety Data System moves forward

system replaces an outdated 30-year-old computer aided dispatch (CAD) and a 14-year-old police records system, into one integrated and all-encompassing system that combines Anoka County’s 11 law enforcement agencies, 15 fire departments, jail, and 911 Center that assists all 21 Anoka County communities.

With fire, law enforcement, jail and 911 staff all using the same system, public safety personnel are able to drastically improve citizen and officer safety in responding to crimes or emergency situations.

Three separate vendors

have been selected to create the one integrated system, to a full estimated cost of $7.6 million. TriTech Systems of San Diego, a world-recognized leader in public safety information systems, is estimated to receive a $6.2 million contract.

Negotiations are ongoing with two additional vendors for the fire records system and to upgrade and interface the jail management system, with those contracts expected to be finalized in the next few months. Full implementation of all the components is expected to occur within 18-24 months.

Collision speCialistsRecommended by insurance companies

Ask about a free loaner car • Owners John and Lori BuchtaFriendly and dependable service

Oak Ridge Auto Body Inc.23428 Hwy. 65 NE

2 Blks. S of CR 24 on Hwy. 65

763-434-4772763-434-7373

Attention hunters

send in your game photo by December 9 and see it in the

January 2014 issue of The Courier.

Send the original, unedited photo (at least 200 dpi) and

write a caption of no more than 75 words explaining who, what,

where and when.

Use the online submission form at www.the-courier.org or email

to [email protected], mail to The Courier, 4115 Ambassador Blvd. NW, St. Francis,

MN 55070.

Questions? Call 763-753-7031.


Community Education Life PAGE 33

Community EduCation ContaCtsTroy Ferguson, Director ................................................................................ 763-753-7041Adult basic education (geD) ..................................................................... 763-753-7190

melody Panek, Coordinator/TeacherAdult education & Services ........................................................................ 763-213-1640

Driver’s education/behind the wheel Nancy messerschmidt, Program Supervisor

Communications Kathleen miller, Program Supervisor ................................................ 763-753-7042

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

Facility Scheduling Nancy messerschmidt, Program Supervisor ............................... 763-213-1589

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

Kids Connection Christine Spindler-Schlottman, Program Supervisor ............. 763-213-1616 Kids Connection Cedar Creek Community School Site ....... 763-753-7160 Kids Connection St. Francis elementary School Site ............. 763-213-8674

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

rec Department Diane guinn, Program Supervisor ..................................................... 763-213-1823 Amy Lindfors, rec Assistant ................................................................... 763-213-1588

Sandhill Center Christine Spindler-Schlottman, Program Supervisor ............. 763-213-1616

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

LocationsCedar Creek Community School Site

763-753-7160 for East Bethel Community School and

Cedar Creek Community School students

St. Francis Elementary School Site 763-213-8674

Student care is available now through June 2, 2014. All children must be preregistered.

Before School care Begins at 6:30 a.m. until school starts . . . . . $9/day

after School care Begins end of school day until 6:00 p.m. . . . $9/day

NoN-School care 6:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $30/day

other feeS Registration fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25/child

$45/family (2 or more children)

Kids Connection provides a safe, structured, nurturing and fun atmosphere for Independent School District 15 students in kindergarten through 5th grade. This quality before and after school childcare program is offered at two sites in ISD 15.

Students can exercise individual responsibility and engage in social interaction and free choice to promote a healthy self image to enhance the quality of their lives.

Kids Connection Before and after school childcare KC General Information 763-213-1616 or 763-213-1641Information and registration forms are also available online at www.communityed15.com

Kids Connection is a division of ISD 15 Community Education

MElody PAnEkISD 15 ADult BASIc EDucAtIon coorDInAtor

Finding the right person to love and spend your life with can be a daunting task. Online dating can be pretty tricky these days; you just never know who you’re going to meet and what they’ll be like. Sometimes people even perform an official back-ground check to find out more about someone they are dating. If you think going out with someone you meet through eHarmony or other popular dating sites is a little intimidating, think about how brave and courageous our new student Oksana Bauer is!

Oksana lived in a small town called Berdaynsk, by the Sea of Azov in Ukraine, near Russia. She went to college,

studied hard and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics. She became employed as an accountant, but the company she worked for went bankrupt and Oksana lost her job. By this time, Oksana had a baby girl and was determined to provide for her, so she became a laundress and worked extremely hard. However, Oksana was able to support herself and her daughter with the help of her parents and beloved family.

Sometime after this, Oksana decided that she wanted to meet a man with whom she could spend her life. She was looking for someone who would not only love her, but would love her precious daughter as well, so after trying unsuccessfully to meet someone nice close to home,

she decided to try an internet dating service. That’s where she met James.

James, an American living in the United States—was halfway around the world. Although he seemed like a wonderful man on the internet, how would she really get to know him and find out what he was really like while living so far apart? Thank heavens for the miracle of modern technology, specifically Skype. Oksana and James were able to communicate through this website. After Skyping for about a year, it was time for the pair to meet in person. James flew to Ukraine and met Oksana face-to-face for the very first time.

Oksana says that she was very nervous and excited to meet James in person!

However, she knew that he was probably just as nervous and excited as she was. During the meeting, they both felt as though they really connected with each other and truly began to fall in love. They continued their long-distance romance for another year after which James asked Oksana to be his bride. They decided that Oksana should come to the United States with her beautiful little girl, get married and live happily ever after—which is exactly what they are doing!

Oksana and her daughter, Liya, have been in the United States for seven months. Oksana began attending classes at ISD 15 Adult Basic Education because she wants to improve her English proficiency and possibly go back to college to continue her studies. She isn’t sure that she will study economics again, but has plenty of time to make decisions about her future without rushing into anything.

She loves many things about America, but one of them is the people. Oksana thinks that Americans are very nice and polite and that we exhibit very good manners. Perhaps the “Minnesota Nice” reputation is true! She says

we often smile and seem to be very happy people. In addition, Oksana thinks that America appears to be exceptionally clean. She marvels at how unsoiled and tidy the roadsides are when she is out driving with her family.

One thing that Oksana misses is living near the sea. I wish we could help her to feel more at home in this respect, but there’s not much seawater near Minnesota. Oksana has hopes of visiting Ukraine again, especially her hometown near the Sea of Azov—which sounds like a beautiful place to take a holiday!

I commend Oksana on her bravery and courage because she was able to move around the globe to a new country in order to follow her heart. Some of us would find it too scary to even move to Iowa, let alone to a country that was completely foreign and unknown. Oksana has an adventurous spirit and a loving heart and we at ABE are privileged to know her and are thrilled that she has chosen to study with us. Of course, we wish her and her new family lots of love and all the best for many happy years to come.

Learning activities offered include:

■ art ■ drama■ reading ■ iPad■ science discovery ■ crafts■ sports ■ games■ outdoor play

Following her heart


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

Bright BeginningsBright Beginnings in ISD 15 Early Childhood

Looking for special events and field trips?

Check out the Places to Go, Things to Do brochure featuring special events and field trips for families

Upcoming ECFE EventsMinneapolis Adventure @ Macy’s

Hop on the bus for a fun-filled day in the city! We will visit Macy’s holiday display on the 8th floor. Then you can sit, see, shop and browse on your own. We will provide handouts to help you plan your time. Date: Friday, December 13Time: Bus leaves Lifelong Learning

Center at 9:15 a.m. and will return by 2:00 p.m.

Fee: $5 per personDeadline: December 6

Tot Shop Children aged birth to kindergarten

can purchase gifts for moms and dads and siblings, plus have them wrapped. Gifts are reasonably priced.Date: Friday, December 6Time: 5:00-7:30 p.m.Location: Lifelong Learning Center

Sesame Street Live: Make a New FriendJoin us and your Sesame Street friends, including Chamki, Grover’s new friend from India, at Target Center in Minneapolis. You may bring a light lunch to eat on the bus or purchase lunch at the event.Date: Friday, January 24Time: Bus leaves Lifelong Learning

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

Fee: $15 per personDeadline: December 18

Parent Ed at Your TimeOnline parent education at times that work for you! Explore resources you didn’t know were at your fingertips in an interactive virtual classroom with a licensed parent educator and other parents like you. The seven-week session will include a variety of interactions including forums that you can access at any time, live online discussions around topics that you want to know about, and opportunities to view and discuss presentations by parenting experts. It’s an easy and quick way to get support and parenting information.Time: At your time (there may also be

designated times for live chats)Fee: FREE but you must pre-register

for the class by calling the Lifelong Learning Center at 763-753-7170 or register online at www.isd15.org

Dates: Weeks of January 13– February 28

Deadline: January 3 (you will receive an email the week of January 6 with login directions)

Come join us at ECFEClasses going on NOW!

Daytime and evening classes offered.

What is ECFE?Early Family Childhood Education (ECFE) is:

A place for babiesA place for toddlersA place for preschoolersA place for all dads, moms and others relatives in a parenting role

Check out the Learn & Thrive brochure for ECFE parent/child classes for the 2013-14 school year

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

a division of ISD 15 Community Education Looking for preschool for your child?

Preschool Place 15 is the place to be!Classes offered at Lifelong Learning Center in Oak Grove

• Programming takes place September through May

• Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available

• One, two, three or four times per week

• Two hour, two hour-fifteen minute, two-and-a-half hour and two hour-forty-five minute sessions

• Most classes are age specific• Classes also available for two-year-olds and very young

three-year-olds• Sliding fee scale is available based on family size and

income• Busing available for all full-year

morning and afternoon classes

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

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

Have a concern about your child?Are you concerned about your child’s development, speech or behavior? If your child is under three years of age, contact Kristine Vogtlin at: [email protected] or 763-753-7172 to reach ISD 15 Help Me Grow services. If your child is at least three years of age and not yet in kindergarten, ISD 15 Early Childhood Screening is the first step in confirming any concerns you have.

Call for an appointment at 763-753-7187 and mention your concerns.

Do you and your child need a place to go play for awhile? Check out Pop In and Play!Pop in and do activities, meet other families and build relationships. No pre-registration necessary. Dates: Wednesdays, November 6–January 29

(no class December 25 or January 1)Time: 9:15-11:15 a.m.Location: Lifelong Learning CenterFee: $4 per child; max 12 per family

(limit 4 children/adult)December 4: Messy

MomentsDecember 11: Moving in the

GymDecember 18: Reindeer Games

Dates: Tuesdays, November 5–April 22 (no class December 24 or 31)

Time: 12:45-3:00 p.m.Location: Lifelong

Learning CenterFee: $4 per child; max

12 per family (limit 4 children/adult)

December 3: Gymtime FunDecember 10: Lions, Tigers & BearsDecember 17: Jewels & Gems

Early Childhood Screening

Do you have a child who is

three or four years old?Have they been through

Early Childhood Screening?

Early Childhood Screening should be

done soon after the child’s third birthday.

Screening is a FREE, simple check of a

young child’s health and development; it does

not determine kindergarten readiness.

Screening includes: a development

assessment, vision and hearing checks,

immunization and health review.

Call 763-753-7187 if you currently have a

3- or 4-year-old child who has

not been screened.


SilverSneakers® ClassicHave fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a SilverSneakers ball are offered for resistance. A chair is available if needed for seated or standing support.Days: Tuesdays, ThursdaysTime: 9:00-10:00 a.m.Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® members;

$2 per class for non-members.

SilverSneakers® YogaSilverSneakers Yoga will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of seated and standing postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity.Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, FridaysTime: 9:00-10:00 a.m.Fee: Free to SilverSneakers® members;

$2 per class for non-members.

The Sandhill Center is operated under the auspices of Independent School District 15 Community Education. Its purpose is to provide arts and recreation opportunities for the residents served by the school district.

Sandhill center23820 Dewey StreetBethel, Mn 55005

For more information on the Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program or the Sandhill Center, please call 763-213-1616.

Join the Lunch Bunch at the Sandhill Center in the Bethel Cabaret for our monthly catered luncheon featuring top entertainment by popular artists. Make your reservations early as most of our shows sell out ahead of time. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

Doors open: 10:40 a.m. Lunch served: 11:00 a.m. Showtime: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost: $13

For reservations, call 763-213-1641. Reservations can also be made on the website at www.communityed15.com.

Remembering the KingTuesday, December 10 Remembering The King features the father/son team of Steve and Tommy Marcio. Remembering The King is a family run organization that started in 2005. They pride themselves on being a family friendly show, and enjoy entertaining people with their respectful and authentic tribute to Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll.”Steve and Tommy have traveled all over the country, competed in and won various Elvis Tribute Artist Contests. Kick off your Christmas season with a special concert.

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 Chris today for more information or email to [email protected]

Fitness 15 • Sandhill Center23820 Dewey StreetBethel, MN 55005

Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m.–Noon

Limited Tickets

Available!

A great group of 37 students from St. Francis Middle School recently participated in an after school 3-on-3 basketball league. Community Ed Rec department and parent Mark Svihel hosted four afternoons of competition and skill building. Several St. Francis High School basketball players worked with the students to help build skills and officiate games. Another session will be held in the spring. MArk SvIhEl

Preschoolers at the lifelong learning Center make the most of the first snowfall of the season. SuBMIttED Photo

Picture Day is Coming!Have photos of children ages 6 months to five years taken. Photos taken by the same photographer that takes Preschool Place 15 school photos. Various packages are available on a prepaid basis. No appointment necessary.

Location: Lifelong Learning Center 18900 Cedar Drive NW Oak Grove

Date: Tuesday, December 3

Time: 10:00 until 11:30 a.m.

Open to the public!

Sports & Outdoors


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

North Metro Soccer Association RecReational PRogRam SPRing/SummeR 2014Registration Begins January 6

Traditional Recreational Program$90 Includes Uniform (ages as of 8/1/2013)

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

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

The Recreational Program will stress basic soccer fundamentals. Practices will be held on one night and games on the other. Each team consists of one or two volunteer coaches and 10-14 players. Fields are located in Andover and Oak Grove.The season begins April 28 and ends on June 28 with the Jamboree.

Comp Prep Program$110 Includes Uniform

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

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

Online RegisTRaTiOn PRefeRRedWalk-in Registration & Questions answeredsaturday, february 15 9:00-11:30 a.m. Andover Community Center 15200 Hanson Blvd. NW Andover, 55304

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

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

Kevin BertelsMinnesota titans

A club baseball program serving northern Anoka County opened with great success this fall.

The Minnesota Titans, formed by two Oak Grove men and made up of 11 players from St. Francis High School and two from Anoka High School, won their Gopher State Fall Baseball League section championship in the Majors division and also won a high school varsity tournament in the Kansas City area the first weekend of November.

The Titans roster formed last summer when Jerry Jorgensen and Scott Benson determined there was interest in offseason baseball among their sons’ St. Francis teammates. The idea had been in place for at least a year before, Jorgensen said. He and Benson both had experience with other club programs in the Twin Cities and believed it could be done less expensively and closer to home. They received sponsorship from BoyceBall Baseball Training based at Adrenaline Sports Center in Coon Rapids, where they will practice indoors this winter.

The Titans’ overall record is 13-4-1. Their first experience as a team was a 2-2 finish in the ScoutStop Labor Day Tournament in the Twin Cities, but they gained confidence from a 2-1 quarterfinal loss to a team made up mostly of Midwestern players committed to play for Division I colleges. That team dominated other games on the way to the championship.

“Now I know we can compete with anybody,” Jorgensen said.

As the team was shaped, Jorgensen and Benson were pleased to find more than enough interest from St. Francis High School players. Jorgensen said that made him believe the program can grow in future seasons, adding teams and tournaments and branching into other age groups.

“My goal is to have teams that compete well and also are respectful and represent our area well,” Jorgensen said.

County baseball team wins section championship, regional tournamentThe Titans from St.

Francis High School are Alex Bauermeister, Mitch Benson, Shane Benson, George Bertels, Andrew Bode, Jeff Bowman, Trent Carlson, Dom DeJarlais, David Jorgensen, Ben Servais and Brent Tholen. Brendan Ehlers and Austin Gaspard of Anoka High School round out the roster.

Julie Bowman, whose son plays for the Titans, said she has enjoyed the team’s success and sees benefits in the future.

“The opportunity to play baseball in Kansas City was a great experience for these boys to see their competition around the country as they consider future opportunities to play baseball in college,” she said. “The commitment that the Titan baseball players have put into building their game off-season was evident.”

the Minnesota titans show off their trophies after winning the high school varsity division of a tournament the first weekend of november in Oak Grove, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas City. Front row (l-r) Dom DeJarlais, Austin Gaspard, David Jorgensen, Jeff Bowman, Mitch Benson, George Bertels; back row (l-r) Coach Jerry Jorgensen, trent Carlson, shane Benson, Brent tholen, Ben servais, Andrew Bode, Alex Bauermeister, Brendan ehlers and Coach scott Benson. subMitted Photo

Senior runner represents Saints at state meetGrAnt spArstADsFhs student, Cross Country runner

The 2013 cross country season recently came to an end, and it brought good results. First, the Saints hosted the Mississippi 8 Conference Championship at The Ponds Golf Course. Both girls and boys teams took 9th in a very talented field of teams. The girls were lead by senior Becca O’Hotto, who took 40th, and the boys top

runner was Grant Olsen with 19th place. He was awarded all-conference honors for his performance.

Next up was the section meet in Cloquet. The girls took 14th out of the 16 teams and were led by junior Madison Berwald with her 60th place finish. The boys took 11th in the 16-team field and were again lead by senior Grant Olsen.

Olsen’s 7th place finish qualified him for the state meet held at St. Olaf College

in Northfield November 2. With a large crowd of fans cheering him on, Olsen placed 86th out of the 174 runners that qualified. It was a great end to a great season.

The season also ended with a team banquet, recognizing all the runners for their hard work. Senior captains Ajay Breen, Grant Olsen, Becca O’Hotto and junior Madison Berwald were honored for leading the 2013 team.team awards

MVP: Becca O’Hotto and Grant Olsen

Most Improved: Rachel Puff (senior), Connor Sullivan (freshman), and Alex Fuchs (middle school)

Rookie of the Year: Cassidy Disrud (middle school)

Bergley award: Ajay Breen (senior)

Great season everyone, let’s make next year even better.


Long Lake

Ice Fishing ContestSaturday, February 1, 2014 at Captain’s on Long Lake in Isanti

Fundraiser for the Long Lake Improvement Association

Watch for more details.

SAVE the DATE!

st. Francis High school cross country runner Grant Olsen competed in the state meet november 2 in northfield. Vikki olsen


Life Classified & Meetings PAGE 36

East BEthEl sEnior EvEnts

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

music will be played by Frank Gust on Friday, December 6. The cost is $5 and includes lunch. Pancake Breakfast

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

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

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

Happy Holidays—best wishes for 2014!

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

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

Celebrate the holidays with a new hairstyle!3073 Bridge Street

St. Francis763-753-4234

Sponsored by the St. Francis American

Legion Auxiliary Unit 622

Tuesdays 5:00 p.m. til gone

St. FranciS american Legion

Adult Open HOckeyMost Mondays

& Wednesdays 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Helmets and gloves are required.

Andover Community Center iCe ArenA

15200 Hanson Blvd. NWAndover, MN 55304

763-767-5100Schedules available at

www.andovermn.gov/acc$5 per Skater

Goalies Skate Free

Heat Mizer Glass, Inc.HOME & BUSINESS

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Residential Windows & Doors Glass of All Types • Plastics

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AUTO GlASSAuto Glass Repaired & Replaced

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Setting limits for kids on TV, video games, phone useLocal pediatrician advises parents to create a “media use plan”

ChriStinE hillSenior Media relationS SpecialiSt, Hennepin county Medical center

Dr. Marjorie Hogan, pediatrician at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC), is one of thousands of members of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) who is concerned about the amount of time kids are spending on the phone, watching TV, and playing video games.

Excessive media use has been associated with obesity, lack of sleep, school problems, aggression and other behavior issues. A recent study shows that the average 8 to 10 year old spends nearly 8 hours a day with different media, and older children and teens spend more than 11 hours per day. Kids who have a TV in their bedroom spend more time with media. About 75 percent of 12 to 17 year olds own cell phones, and nearly all teenagers use text messaging.

“This new technology is very interesting and exciting, but it shouldn’t replace healthy activities,” explains Dr. Hogan. “Sleep, for example, is so important to growing children. But many kids are keeping their cell phones next to them while they are in bed so that they don’t miss a text or a Facebook post. These things can wait until morning—after they’ve gotten a good night’s sleep.”

Dr. Hogan was one of the co-authors of the AAP policy, Children, Adolescents and the Media, which explains the importance of having a healthy “media diet.”

“A healthy approach to children’s media use should both minimize potential health risks and

foster appropriate and positive media use—in other words, it should promote a healthy ‘media diet’,” said Dr. Hogan. “Parents, educators and pediatricians should participate in media education, which means teaching children and adolescents how to make good choices in their media consumption.”

While media by itself is not the leading cause of any health problem in the U.S., it can contribute to numerous health risks. At the same time, kids can learn many positive things from pro-social media.

The AAP policy statement offers recommendations for parents:}Parents can model effective “media diets” to

help their children learn to be selective and healthy in what they consume. Take an active role in children’s media education by co-viewing programs with them and discussing values.

}Make a media use plan, including mealtime and bedtime curfews for media devices. Screens should be kept out of kids’ bedrooms.

}Limit entertainment screen time to less than one or two hours per day; in children under 2, discourage screen media exposure.Dr. Hogan also recommends that parents

monitor what their children are communicating on their social media sites. “And if you have a concern, talk to your child about it and explain what your family’s boundaries—and values—are when it comes to sharing information,” said Dr. Hogan.

More information for parents on creating a family media use plan is available on HealthyChildren.org. To see Dr. Hogan’s statements on creating a media use plan, go to http://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/aap-press-room-media-center/Pages/Family-Media-Use-Plan.aspx

Salsabrosa at Northtown LibraryJill Smithanoka county library

Live at the Library presents Salsabrosa at Northtown Library, Saturday, December 7 at 2:00 p.m. This program is free and open to the public, but seating may be limited.

Musicians from the Latin music and dance group, Salsabrosa, will share incredible music and stories. This interactive experience will allow you to sing, play, and dance along with the band.

“Song and dance are languages of their own,” said Anoka County Commissioner Carol LeDoux. “Come experience this energizing genre that speaks to the soul.”

Learn more about authentic Latin music and hear the unique instruments and rhythms associated with Salsa, Merengue, Cha Cha, and more. This program is a powerful celebration of the marvelously diverse communities within Minnesota.

“Salsa music makes you want to dance,” said Library Board Vice President Melanie Keister. “Learn more about the roots of salsa music and learn a few moves in this high energy performance.”

Salsabrosa is presented by G.L. Berg in partnership with MELSA. The program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Northtown Library is located at 711 County Road 10 in Blaine. For more information call 763-717-3267 or visit anokacountylibrary.org.


Complete Family Dentistry Round Lake DentaL

Dr. Thomas Swenson

763-427-0285 • www.roundlakedental.com13841 Round Lake Blvd. NW • Andover

2 minutes north of Highway 10 on Round Lake Boulevard

Open evenings

Nitrous Oxide

Available

Cosmetic Dentistry

Jeffrey W. Williams, O.D.

Alicia M. Yantes, O.D.

St. Francis Eyecare23168 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Suite #300, St. Francis

763.753.6019

Andover Family Eyecare

3480 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Suite #101, Andover

763.712.9854Providers for EyeMed, VSP, Medica, BCBS, HealthPartners,

Preferred One, Davis Vision, and many more.

A 55+ rental housing community offering comfort and convenience at

an affordable rate!

Less than 5 minutes from St. Francis and

15 minutes to Riverdale in Coon Rapids.

Call 763-753-8385 for more information

21202 Old Lake George Boulevard Oak Grove, MN 55303

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smoke free

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21388 Johnson Street NE, 1 block W of Hwy. 65 & Sims Road in East Bethel

763-413-3445

All AppliAnce DisposAl

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

any other offer.

Anoka County to conduct Community health Assessment SurveymArthA WEAvErpublic inforMation Manager, anoka county

Minnesota law requires that local health agencies regularly collect citizen input about current community health standards and status. The law includes the development of a community health assessment and plan so leaders can prioritize public health services. Local agencies are required to complete this process every five years. Anoka County Community Health and Environmental Services (CHES) is currently developing the 2015-19 assessment and plan.

As part of the plan’s development, CHES is conducting a community health opinion survey to identify the 10 most important community health issues. The Community Health Survey can be completed either online in English or Spanish at www.AnokaCounty.us/healthsurvey or by filling out a paper copy. Paper copies can be found at Anoka County license centers, service centers, and libraries, as well as city offices and senior centers. Copies are also available in Arabic, Russian and Somali as well as English and Spanish. People interested in copies in these languages may contact Anoka County Community Health and Environmental Services at 763-422-7427.

“We appreciate the time residents take to complete the survey. While we understand time is precious, the answers provided give us an important community perspective of what citizens think should be addressed in terms of the entire community and its health,” said Carol LeDoux, Anoka County Commissioner.

The survey will follow up on key issues raised during the last health assessment cycle done in 2009, and will also address issues and concerns that have emerged since then. In addition to the survey, CHES will conduct focus groups and key information interviews with representatives from other county programs and key community groups.

*All responses are anonymous and cannot be associated with an individual.For questions or more information, contact Anoka County Community Health

at 763-422-7030.

Project Bookshelf at Anoka County LibrariesAvA lArSEnanoka county library

Would you like to share the magic of books with an Anoka County child who might not otherwise receive a book during the holidays? Anoka County libraries are now accepting books as gifts for children in need as part of their annual Project Bookshelf.

“When kids own books, they have a sense of “I’m a Reader,” said Bob Thistle, Library Board President. “Kids love to have books they can call their own.”

To participate, simply bring new, unwrapped books for children and young adults to any branch of Anoka County Library or Columbia Heights Public Library during the month of November. Books will then be distributed through Anoka County foodshelves, including ACBD, CEAP, Centennial Community Food Shelf, NACE and SACA.

For more information, please visit your local Anoka County library, call Ava Larsen at 763-576-4695, or visit the library website at anokacountylibrary.org.

Bringing local history to life: A Civil War Christmas Jill Smithanoka county library

Get a jump start on your holiday celebrations by hearing about a Civil War Christmas at the Mississippi Library Saturday, December 7 at 2:00 p.m.

A fashionable woman of the 1860s would have worn her very best to celebrate the season and that is just what this living history presentation brings! A spirited talk from a presenter (in full 1860s fashion), will share stories from an Anoka area perspective; how a tree might have been decorated, what Christmas treats would have been prepared, what gifts would have been exchanged and more. Guests will listen to the music of the season and get a peek at how Christmas in 1860s Anoka County would have celebrated during the hard years of the American Civil War.

“Learn more about how the early settlers of Anoka County celebrated the holiday season,” said Library Board President Bob Thistle. “Some of the traditions may even still exist today.”

“Considering how elaborate many holiday celebrations have become, it will be an eye opening experience to see how our ancestors celebrated the season!” said Anoka County Commissioner Robyn West.

Mississippi Library is located at 410 Mississippi Street in Fridley. This program is free and open to the public, but seating may be limited. A Civil War Christmas is sponsored by the Anoka County Library, presented by the Anoka County Historical Society, and funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

For more information about this and other library programs, call 763-712-2322 or visit your local Anoka County Library or the website at anokacountylibrary.org.


Volunteers, ages 12 to 40 are wanted for an investigational drug research study that will compare topical study medications for the treatment of acne.

If your child or you have 20 or more pimples on your face, we have an 11-13 week study that you or your child may qualify for participation.

All participants are seen by a board certified dermatologist

No cost study related evaluations Qualified participants will be

reimbursed for time and travelParental (or legal guardian) consent

is required for all participants under the age of 18

An acne study for ages 12 and up!

7205 University Avenue NEFridley, MN 55432

Steven Kempers, M.D.

For more information, please call

763-502-2941

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

regular visits to the dentist. We provide comprehensive dental care

for the whole family.

In the

Oak Grove Crossing3154 Viking Boulevard NW

Oak Grove

763-753-5336

New Patients

Welcome!

3220 bridge Street, Suite 107 in the St. francis Mall

call 763-753-1277 for an appointment

6/12

Kendall W. Goodian, D.C.chiropractic orthopedist

Specializing in Sports, Industrial and Auto Accident Injuries

Births

Aidan Thomas Potter was born on October 16 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces and was 21¼ inches long. Proud parents are Kyle Carner and Nikki Potter of Brainerd and Isanti.

Bentley Joseph Eakman was born on October 28 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 9 pounds, 8 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud parents are Keshia Helmbrecht and Ryan Eakman of Milaca. Bentley is welcomed by siblings Lillia Ann (6), Aleah Marie (5), and Mason Allen (1).

Ryder Lawrence Anderson was born on November 2 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was 19 inches long. Proud parents are Ryan and Amanda Anderson of East Bethel.

Annalise Elaine Geving was born on November 2 at Cambridge Medical Center. She weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces and was 19½ inches long. Proud parents are Aaron and Jackie Geving of Cambridge. Annalise is welcomed by siblings Aston (5) and Avery (4).

Oliver Liam Kooiman was born on November 11 at Cambridge Medical Center. He weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces and was 21½ inches long. Proud parents are David and Jennifer Kooiman of Cambridge.

Fitness Matters mEliSSA EnzlEr St. franciS anytiMe fitneSS, owner

QuestionI really enjoy walking, but

does it provide any real health benefits?Answer

If walking works for you, it works for me! Truly, fitness all starts with finding something you won’t mind doing. Walking has many hidden benefits that most people overlook because it’s low impact and so easy to get started. Most people falsely assume that in order to be healthy and prevent disease, they need to perform rigorous cardio activity, but this is not always the case.

Recent studies indicate that frequent walkers have lower rates of heart attacks and strokes than those who don’t walk as often, as well as lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Walking is also is great for keeping the weight off. Most people would never think taking a 30-minute walk during their lunch break or after work could do much

good, but that walk can slice off anywhere from 100-200 calories, depending on the pace and how much the person weighs. An extra 100-200 calories burned each day can go a long way to prevent weight gain and keep you staying slim, especially if it’s more than you’ve done before.

Another benefit of this simple exercise is that it keeps your bones strong and dense as you age, helping to prevent osteoporosis. Keep in mind that you still need to do weight-bearing exercises as the best defense against osteoporosis.

Although it has many physical benefits, walking can do wonders for mental health as well. Going for a walk can be very relaxing and can easily lighten your mood when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. Even better, walking has shown to improve mental clarity and cognition.

As you can see, adding a brisk, 30-minute walk to your daily routine can do wonders

for your health in the long run. But, if you can’t find a stretch of 30 minutes, go smaller and move whenever you can. Stringing three 10-minute bouts together throughout the day can be equally impactful.

You simply can’t go wrong with this easy, enjoyable exercise that you can do anywhere at anytime! Don’t use weather as an excuse. When the weather gets too cold, too hot or rainy for those outdoor walks, head to your local gym. Many will allow a free pass so you can try walking indoors (and other exercises) before you buy a membership.

ChildCAreOAk GrOvE lIcENSEd dAycArE 22 years experience, has immediate openings. call Sue at 763-753-5134 or email [email protected].

ST. FrANcIS lIcENSEd dAycArE has openings, reasonable rates, christina 763-258-7282.

NOWTHEN HOME cHIldcArE. fun and loving environment, ft/pt, 6 weeks to 11 years. St. francis elementary, nutritious meals, references, licensed, call Melissa 763-213-1021 or [email protected].

kIdS cOUNTry cHIldcArE cENTEr in St. francis now enrolling. call 763-753-5010 for more information.

employmentTOW TrUck drIvEr WANTEd – apply in person at gerdin auto & tire, 3158 bridge Street, St. francis. MuSt live within 10 minutes of the shop. no experience needed, will train. Must pass background check, have excellent driving record. no special license needed.

STArT yOUr OWN BUSINESS TOdAy. total look Salon & Spa station rental now available. $150/wk. call Shirley, 763-427-0550.

FitnesskETTlEBEll, yOGA-FIT, rIPPEd, personal fitness training and nutrition. call 763-267-2198 or visit our website at www.ascensionft.com.

For sAle20% OF SIlPAdA JEWElry sales donated to north anoka county foodshelf, www.mysilpada.com/kristin.genser, 763-441-9197.

serviCesTrUSTWOrTHy, THOrOUGH, dETAIlEd person desiring to clean your home or do odd jobs. call Michelle 763-571-4454.

HANdyMAN SErvIcES—call butch at 763-300-9869 for plumbing, electrical, masonry and remodeling.

OvErBy PAINTING—experienced, insured, interior, exterior, decks. call Shawn 612-363-5108.

PIANO lESSONS—casual, fun, licensed/experienced, competitive rates! carmel 612-220-0235.

WAntedthe St. francis High School drama department could use donations of wooden suit hangers, costumes, lumber, latex paint and other building materials and plastic storage bins. call glenn at 763-213-1633 or email to: [email protected]

Have an engagement, wedding or birth

announcement or an article you would like published in

The Courier?Use the convenient

online submission form at www.the-courier.org/

submissions.

Questions? Call 763-753-7031 for

more information.


Classified By Mailthe Courier

4115 ambassador blvd. nw St. francis, Mn 55070

Onlinewww.the-courier.org

24-hours-a-day

By PhOne763-753-7031

Monday-friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

in PersOn4115 Ambassador Blvd. nW

Monday-friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

CounCil & township Meetings

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

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

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

Bethel, MN • 763-434-4366

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

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

East Bethel City Councilmeets 1st & 3rd wednesday

7:30 p.m.2241 • 221st Ave. NE

East Bethel, MN • 763-367-7840

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

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

Oak Grove, MN • 763-404-7000

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

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

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

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

area Meetings & events

ClassiFied rates & deadlinesClassified AdsFirst 10 words Free, each additional word is 25¢. email addresses may be considered as two words.

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

Copy & Display Ad Deadline

ISD 15 SCHOOL BOARD MEETInG: December 9 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m.; January 13 Dialogue with School Board 6:30 p.m., Regular Meeting 7:00 p.m. at Central Services Center, Community Room, 4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St. Francis.

ST. FRAnCIS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Breakfast with the Chamber is Wednesday, December 11 at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in St. Francis, 8:00-9:00 a.m., $3 for breakfast. Meetings are open to all. Visit stfrancischamber.org for more info or call 763-438-5163.

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

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

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

AMERICAn LEGIOn POST 622 – ST. FRAnCIS General membership meets monthly the second Thurs. at 7:00 p.m. All members of the post are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.

AMERICAn LEGIOn AuxILIARy unIT 622 – ST. FRAnCIS General membership meets monthly on the third Thurs. of the month at 7:00 p.m. All members of the auxiliary are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 763-753-4234.

Does your organization have a meeting or event to advertise? Contact The Courier office at 763-753-7031. We have a circulation of over 14,000.

EAST BETHEL SEnIORS meet third Thurs. of the month at 2241 221st Avenue NE in East Bethel for business meeting and noon lunch; second Wed. of each month is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon w/potluck at noon; fourth Wed. is crafts, 9:00 a.m.-noon; Pancake Breakfast is held second Sun. of each month, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Dance the first Fri. of every month, 1:00-4:00 p.m.; each Thurs. is 500 Cards, 1:00-4:00 p.m.; Cribbage held once a month; call for date/time 763-434-6179. The East Bethel Senior Center is available for rent, call Dennis 763-434-9244. All seniors are welcome to join for only $7 per year.

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

ST. FRAnCIS SEnIORS If you are 55 or older, come enjoy some companionship. We play cards and bingo, go on trips, have picnics and potlucks. We meet the first and third Thursday of each month at the St. Francis Legion. Social time at noon, meeting at 1:00 p.m., games until 3:00. Some play Scrabble in the afternoon on the third Friday and cribbage on the fourth Friday. Come check us out or call President Ray Steinke at 763-753-1871.

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

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

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

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

CEDAR/EAST BETHEL LIOnS CLuB meets bimonthly, first and third Tues., 7:00 p.m., at the Hunters Inn. Call Ruth Larson at 763-434-9423.

CEDAR/ EAST BETHEL LIOnESS CLuB meets the first Thursday of the month at the 6:00 p.m. Ham Lake VFW. For membership information call Marilyn Kappelhoff, 763-434-6599. We Serve!

Issue DeaDlIne DelIvery By

2014

January 12/6/13 12/29/13

February 1/10/14 2/2/14

March 2/7/14 3/2/14

April 3/7/14 3/30/14

May 4/11/13 4/4/14

June 5/9/14 6/1/14

July 6/6/14 6/29/14

August 7/11/14 8/3/14

September 8/8/14 8/31/14

October 9/5/14 9/28/14

November 10/10/14 11/2/14

December 11/7/14 11/30/14

Now LeasiNg400–800 Sq Ft in St. Francis office/RetaiL space

Heat and A/C included23306 & Cree Street NW,1 block west of Highway 47 in St. Francis

Call Tony at 763-444-4425 or 612-209-2327or visit www.loopnet.com


With coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 12-31-13. Dave’s Heating & AC, 763-781-6901.




$500 off Furnace or Central Air

Conditioning System

$1,000 off Any Dave Lennox

Signature Series Package

$350 Installation of new Lennox

Whole Home Humidier

$20 off Any Service Call

763-781-6901

1601 37th Avenue NE, Columbia HeightsFamily owned and operated since 1972. Licensed, Bonded and Insured.dd

Up to $2,350 with Rebates and Incentives!

24-Hour Emergency Service

“We treat your pets like our own”

St. Francis Veterinary Clinic763-444-9359

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

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

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

AskFido:

“Easy. Four free walks a day, every day I’m here!”

More personal care boarding perks:• $18 per day plus a multi dog discount• Pick-up/drop-off 365 days a year• 24 hour on-site care• Maintaining Fido’s routine of pottying

outside —we’re not in the business of starting bad habits

• Free medication administration

What makes Fido’s your favorite home away from home?

10% Off fOr new

GrOOMinG CustOMers!

Fido’s Barber Shop19847 Orchid St. NW, Oak Grove

763-213-8143www.fidosbarber.com

All Breed Professional Dog Grooming and Personal

Care BoardingDay and Evening Appointments

Houseplants with health benefitsOne of my standby gifts

is a houseplant. Houseplants not only brighten up a room with color, they give energy and many plants give health benefits. I might add, green (as in money and plants) is my favorite color.

Oftentimes, health issues such as headaches, stress, heart and circulation symptoms and colds decrease when indoor plants are present. The good news is that a classic National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) study found that common house-plants could improve air quality. Plants can remove a variety of toxic air emissions including ammonia, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, benzene, xylene and trichloroethylene.

The top nine air purifying plants that are most effective in removing potentially harmful chemicals, including those in paints, varnish, dry cleaning fluids, car exhaust fumes and tobacco smoke are: dragon tree, ivy, ficus, philodendrons, spider plants, peace lilies, ferns, chrysanthemums and palms.

Another reason for having houseplants is, “Houseplants make people feel calmer and more optimistic,” says Bruno Cortis, M.D., a Chicago cardiologist. Interestingly, he also states studies have shown that hospital patients who face a window with a garden view

recovered more quickly

than those who had to look at a wall.

Finally, plants fight fatigue and colds. According to a University of Agriculture in Norway study, indoor plants can reduce fatigue, coughs, sore throats and other cold-related illnesses by more than 30 percent, partially by

increasing humidity levels and decreasing dust.

Remember the healthier the plant, the more purifying it will be.

So, if you’re stumped on what to give the person on your Christmas list that seems to have everything, consider

giving a houseplant. A houseplant is a gift of beauty, always in style, has no calories and shows the recipient you want the best health for them and to share many future holidays

with them. For more gardening information,

visit the University of Minnesota

Extension website at www.extension.umn.edu or

call the Isanti County Master

Gardeners at 763-689-1810.

Visit us on Facebook at Isanti

County Master Gardeners.Source: SixWise.com

Jeff and lisa Gardas and nick and Carmen Anderson are excited to announce the engagement of their children, Paige Gardas to tyler Anderson. Both are 2011 graduates of St. Francis high School. Paige attends north Dakota State University for pre-veterinary medicine and microbiology. tyler also attends north Dakota State University for landscape architecture. the wedding will be August 2, 2014. SubMitted pHoto

engageMentMaster gardenerCArOl BrAy iSanti county MaSter gardener


If your pets could talk, they would insist on…

Make your holiday reservations

soon, we’re filling up fast!

763-753-5450 6560 Norris Lake Road

Elk River, MN 55330 (Nowthen) www.goldstarkennelsofmn.com

AwArd winning – BoArding – grooming – TrAining

$5 Off GrOOMinG

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

with any other offers or discounts. 763-753-5450 • Expires 12/31/13 Co

urie

r 12

/13

Gold

Star Kennels & Suites

A Legacy Since 1971

Happy HOlidays!

frEE Holiday Giftfor all boarding and

grooming clients while supplies last.

Help us welcome new groomer

Tiffany Peacock and Save $5. Tiffany has 17 years

experience.

Wishing you the happiest of holiday seasons

from Temperature Specialists, Inc.

May your holidays be bright!

St. Francis Veterinary Clinic

Best wishes for the new year from…

Round Lake DentaL

May the holidays be especially sacred and peaceful for you and yours this season. And may the

joy and contentment of the season remain throughout

the New Year.

Johnson Family Chiropractic in St. Francis

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and we hope it brings you

much joy!

from the

City of Oak Grove

City of Nowthen

Time to recycle!

May your holiday season be bright!

from your

in Nowthen


Give the Gift of LifeRED CROSS

BLOOD DRIVE at St. Francis Methodist Church

3914 229th Avenue • St. Francis, MNFriday, December 27

1:30-6:30 p.m.

Star of Animal Planet’s Growing Up Wolf television series succumbs to cancer JOy FUSCOwildlife Science center executive adMiniStrator

Some of you remember Rosalyn from Animal Planet’s television series, Growing Up Wolf, she was the light-colored wolf who was fiercely protective of her power and place in the pack. Or perhaps you saw her when visiting the Wildlife Science Center in Columbus, Minnesota?

Born at the Center in 1998, Rosalyn had a long life. She was one of seven wolf pups born and raised that year by the Center’s animal care specialists. Through the years, she rose through the ranks, led her pack and raised another wolf’s pups. She was large, powerful and charismatic, commanding attention from humans and wolves alike. She got her size and probably her attitude from her grandmother, a wolf from the wilds of Alaska.

Rosalyn was best known for her starring role as the young alpha wolf, featured in the Animal Planet’s television

series. People from all over the world watched her rule the pack and gradually accept the litter of pups born that spring. Over the last year, Rosayln’s age was catching up with her and she needed to be removed from her once loyal pack to a pen of her own. Still within site of other packs, she patrolled the perimeter of her pen, making sure that the other wolves didn’t approach her territory. But her favorite time of day seemed to be when the Center’s director, biologist Peggy Callahan, came to feed her and clean her pen. She was that rare kind of wolf—one

that didn’t fear the approach or company of humans. In fact, she made every effort to get up and greet them.

On Halloween, Rosalyn lost interest. The next morning, when Rosalyn failed to get up, Peggy called Dave, the Center’s veterinarian. Peggy knew it was Rosalyn’s time. As the fire slowly died from her eyes, Ros laid her head on her lifelong friend’s lap and died.

Rosalyn’s life, her behavior and interactions with other wolves enriched our understanding of wolves and wolf packs.

The Wildlife Science Center receives no money or aid from state or federal governments. Rosalyn survived only because of the public’s generosity. The Center established the “Rosalyn Legacy Fund” to help ensure that the remaining 52 wolves and 43 other animals who live at the Center survive and thrive. To donate, please visit www.wildlifesciencecenter.org where you can find more information about Rosalyn and the Wildlife Science Center.

Jenni bidner, wildlife Science center


19035 Lake George Blvd. NWOak Grove, MN 55303

763-753-6336www.oakgrovevet.net

Happy Holidays!We’re delighted to help you with your pet’s medical, grooming and boarding needs.

Call today!

Amy Morgan, D.V.M.Lisa Johnson, D.V.M.

Kaija Youngner, D.V.M.Dawn Price, D.V.M.

*On qualifying furnace, A/C & heat pump purchases.

Heating & Cooling Solutions proudly accepts: www.heatcoolsolut.com

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Contact us today at 763-434-8893

call heating & cooling solutions for details at

763-434-8893Offer valid on Bryant efficiency heat pumps, furnaces & AC install. Must be present at time of quote. Cannot be combined with any

other offers or cash back rebates. Call for details.

Bryant Factory reBates

up to $1,300*

Utility reBates

up to $805*

Local filmmaker creates uplifting movie filmed on the Rum River AnDrEA hErmAnfriend of writer & producer

Hollywood has many things coming out of it, but wholesome entertainment isn’t typically one of them. iiFilms, LLC of Minnesota understands the need for quality, family-friendly entertainment, and has delivered, with their recent film, The Current. The Dove Foundation has given The Current their seal as a “family-approved” and “faith-friendly” film (for ages 12+), as well as its highest rating of five Doves.

The production company iiFilms is not only Minnesota-based, but Scott A. Peterson, who wrote and produced The Current, is a resident of Oak Grove. Peterson was a finalist for the Kairos Prize competition for spiritually-uplifting screenplays in 2011.

Peterson says the movie is largely a response to the script’s recognition in the competition combined with a challenge from his pastor to a group of church members to do “something impossible” for God.

The Current is the story of 13-year-old Jake Larson, who is living in Chicago and loving everything about his life there when his parents decide that city violence is hitting too close to home. Wanting to raise their children in a better environment, Jake’s parents make the life-changing decision to move the family from Chicago to a campground in rural Minnesota. At the campground, a rebellious young Jake meets Peter, the boy from the farm across the river. Calling The Current an “inspirational”

and “remarkable” film, The Dove Foundation’s review states, “For anyone who has struggled in life, this movie offers hope!”

Peterson and an all-volunteer cast and crew filmed The Current during the summer of 2012 in various locations around Minnesota and Chicago. Much of the movie was filmed in and on the Rum River and various spots in Ramsey, Anoka, Cambridge, North Branch and Maple Grove. All together, there are more than 300 people involved in the project, including five bands whose music is a part of the film.

iiFilms is partnering with individuals, churches and other groups to host one-night showings in theaters around the country. The Current will be playing in theaters around the

Twin Cities; showtimes and locations are on the website. iiFilms plans to release The Current on DVD and Blu-ray in February 2014. You can see the

movie trailer at www.iifilms.com. Contact iiFilms through the website if you would like to host a showing in a theater near you.

Writer and producer Scott Peterson, actor William Studer, director of photography Ben Enke and director nikita zubarev film a scene for The Current, a locally filmed movie. SubMitted

Civil War Christmas at Anoka history CenterElAinE KOEhnacHS volunteer coordinator

The Anoka County Historical Society proudly invites the public to visit the History Center for a Civil War Christmas. This spirited talk by costumed interpreter, Vickie Wendel, explores and explains the holiday traditions of the 1860s. This free presentation is offered at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, December 5 at the History Center located at 2135 Third Avenue North in downtown Anoka.

Participants will learn how to decorate a tree in a time before strings of electric lights. They will sample traditional treats that 1860 housewives would have prepared. Gifts that were exchanged were very different too, especially during the hard years of the Civil War. Join us for a memorable evening of music and laughter.

The History Center is located at 2135 Third Avenue North in downtown Anoka. Please call for additional information at 763-421-0600 or visit the website at www.ac-hs.org.

Free Dollars Into Sense Class

Anoka County Extension Staff and Dollar Works Volunteers will present a free Dollars into Sense class on Tuesday, December 17 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bunker Hills Activities Center, 550 Bunker Lake Boulevard, Andover and again at 7:00 p.m. at the Anoka County Human Services Center, 1201 89th Avenue, Blaine. To register, call University of Minnesota Extension, Anoka County, at 763-755-1280 at least three days prior to the class you wish to attend. Classes will cover budgeting and address credit issues, tracking expenses, making a spending plan, goal setting and how to get additional help.

Recycling is now easier with simple sort recycling. You no longer need to sort items. Just place them all in the large roll-off container provided by your hauler. If you have

any questions about what is acceptable or would like to start a new service, call your hauler:

Ace Solid Waste 763-427-3110 Allied Waste 763-784-2104East Central Sanitation 763-689-2171LePage & Sons 763-757-7100

2013 Goal 572 Tons

48 TonsRecycled in October

St. Francis has recycled 443 tons in 2013 so far.


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Season’s Greetings from all of us at County Market!

Tantalizing party trays from our deli!

Make it easy on yourself this holiday season.

Place your order with our Deli Department early for a

fabulous party tray.

Make this season one to remember…

Give a Luscious Fruit Basket.Spectacular fresh fruit baskets

are gifts that say “you’re special” naturally! Call our Produce

Department for ideas.

You create the occasion…

We’ll make the celebration special with Specialty Roasts.

Top quality Seasonal Meat Favorites are available for special order, just give our Meat Department a call!

Make your holiday gift

giving easy with King’s Gift Card.

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23122 St. Francis Blvd. • St. Francis763-753-3334

OpEn SEvEn DayS a WEEk Monday-Saturday 5:00 a.m.-Midnight

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Express Fuel & Car

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there was a great turnout for the Dia de los muertos: Day of the Dead Celebration field trip to the minnesota history Center in October. the multicultural/Diversity program of independent School District 15 coordinated the field trip with the help of Community Ed and School Board Director Dave roberts, who collected a donation to help with the transportation expense. Dia de los muertos is a joyful remembrance with feasts and festivities in which death is recognized as part of the natural process of living. During this important event, families gather and visit a cemetery to clean graves, paint and redecorate them. in homes, altars (ofrendas) are created with special foods, candles, marigolds, and items that had meaning to the loved one who passed away. At the event at the minnesota history Center, participants were able to make a nicho (shadow box), clay skull and experience posada printmaking. they also saw mexican folk dance, an Aztec dance troupe, stilt-walkers and a puppet show. A great family-friendly outing was had by all. the next multicultural event coming up is a hmong new year Celebration on December 13, 6:00-9:00 pm at St. Francis high School. Everyone is invited.

carline Sargent iSd 15 Multicultural/diverSity liaiSon

the courier - december 2013

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