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COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Serving Marine on St. Croix, Scandia, May Township

VOL. 34 NO. 30 www.countrymessenger.com $.75

SOLAR FARM BLUES: Utility power poles draw complaints in Scandia. PAGE 2

School district discusses potential sale of property

‘Jul’ highlights tradition, welcomes change

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

For the descendants of Swedish settlers — and, it turns out, many others — ‘tis the season for St. Lucia rolls, limpa rye bread and pepparkakor gingersnaps.

Recipes for these seasonal treats and other traditional fare come together in a cookbook released earlier this month by the Minnesota Historical Society Press, “Jul: Swedish American Holiday Traditions.” In the book, self-described “Nordic food geek and meatball historian” Patrice Johnson shares a collection of time-tested recipes from her own kitchen and others’.

Taking a cue from church cookbooks, Johnson attributes recipes to the various chefs who supplied them.

Looking for a Swedish meatball that’s sure to be a hit? Choose from no fewer than seven

options, including Gustavus Adolphus College’s signature meatball and the People’s Choice award winner in an American Swedish Institute contest, prepared by Faye Olson of Brooklyn Park, Minn.

Although “Jul” is heavy on tradition, Johnson is no purist.

She recalls her family’s century-old tradition of serving macaroni and cheese alongside julbord dishes, and a holiday habit in which she and her great-aunt would celebrate Christmas early with hamburgers from McDonald’s and a glass or two of wine.

In true melting-pot fashion, a Shan (southeast Asian) style meatball found its way into the cookbook by marriage.

“Christmas is about embracing the people and flavors that we love,” Johnson writes.

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

Nearly two years after the Stillwater school district announced plans to close Marine Elementary School, district representatives appear ready to entertain a discussion about selling the property to the City of Marine on St. Croix.

Marine councilman Lon Pardun reported Nov. 9 that he’d had a brief conversation with the district’s finance director, Kristen Hoheisel, about the possibility of the city buying the school property. Neither the prospective buyer nor seller had established a price, and Hoheisel said she would bring the matter up with the school board, according to Pardun’s account of the conversation.

The school board met in closed session Friday, Nov. 17, to discuss Marine Elementary School. Hoheisel confirmed that the meeting had taken place but declined to offer details.

Representatives of the City of Marine have been open about the city’s interest in purchasing the property. However, after lawsuits were brought against the district over the proposed school closures, the Stillwater school board banned post-closure planning. The final lawsuit was dismissed Nov. 21, according to district spokeswoman Carissa Keister.

SUBMITTED

In “Jul: Swedish American Holiday Traditions,” Patrice Johnson shares a collection of time-tested recipes.

SEE BOOK, PAGE 2

Above General Store, new art meets old tradition Show and sale set for weekend

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

Natural light spills into Mary Jo Van Dell’s studio and showroom above the General Store in Marine on St. Croix, lending its glow to paintings hung on the wall and pottery lining low shelves and a staircase. The lighting might be especially fine in the northeast corner, where the weathered wooden floor is spattered with paint. Although Van Dell’s easel sits above the

SUBMITTED

Oil painter Mary Jo Van Dell moved to Marine last year from Stillwater, and has since opened a studio and showroom above the General Store.

telltale splatters she insists the paint isn’t hers, but that of a predecessor. Artists including Jim Dimmers and Tom Maakestad

worked in the studio before Van Dell.

“I’ve come up for both (Dimmers’ and Maakestad’s) shows,” Van Dell said. “I’m pretty sure this is Jim’s paint on the floor. …

It’s fun to know I’m in his space and continuing a tradition here above the store.”

Van Dell, who has occupied the studio since May, will host a Holiday Studio Show and Sale this weekend (see sidebar for details). The show will feature what Van Dell refers to as “The Little Ones,” small paintings in carefully selected frames.

SEE ARTIST, PAGE 2

Two found dead in Scandia home

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

A Scandia man and woman were found dead in their home Sunday, Nov. 19, in what is being reported as an apparent murder-suicide.

Just before 10 p.m.

Sunday night, the Washington County Sheriff's Office received a call to check the welfare of residents on Olinda Trail N. in Scandia.

Upon arrival, the Sheriff's Office discov-

ered two bodies and a weapon inside the residence, Chief Deputy B. Mueller wrote in a press release issued Monday morning. The two were identified as Melissa Seefert, 65 years old, and Clarence Seefert, 66 years old.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension assisted in processing the crime scene. The Sheriff's Office is not seeking any suspects in this death investigation and said SEE DEATHS, PAGE 2

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ARTIST: Oil paintings

Power poles raise ire in Scandia

FROM PAGE 1

“People look forward to these little ones because a lot of people start their collections this way,” she said, “or give them as gifts.”

Before moving to Marine a little less than a year ago, Van Dell lived in Stillwater for 15 years. But the Minnesota born and raised artist said a move north — even a short distance — made sense.

“It seems my compass is always pointing north,” she said with a small laugh. “You can probably tell by looking at some of my work that I enjoy nature and solitude. Marine is a really inspiring, beautiful place to live. Quiet and peaceful.”

Aside from special events such as the upcoming holiday sale, Van Dell does not post regular showroom hours. But she welcomes interruptions when she’s in the studio.

“If the front door is open and my door is open you’re welcome to come in,” she said. “Occasionally people want to buy a couple (greeting) cards or maybe a pot for a gift.”

Visitors may even catch a glimpse of Van Dell at work, feet treading on the paint-speckled floor beneath the easel.

Holiday Studio Show and Sale When: Fri., Dec. 1, 1 to 8 p.m.; Sat., Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 3, 12 to 3 p.m.

Where: Mary Jo Van Dell’s studio above the Marine General Store (101 Judd Street; enter just south of the store’s main entrance).

Details: See Van Dell’s original oil paintings featuring Minnesota landscapes. The showroom also carries and ceramics from local potters including Leila Deneoke, Guillermo Cuellar, Joe Samuelson and Robert Bowman.

z

Financial Focus

Can You Afford to Retire Early?

Some people dream of retiring early. Are you one of them? If so, you’ll need to plan ahead – because a successful early retirement can’t be achieved through last-minute moves.

So, if you’re determined to retire early, consider taking the following steps: • Pick a date. Early retirement means different things to different people. But it’s important to pick an exact age, whether it is 60, 62, 64, or whatever, so you can build an appropriate retirement income strategy.

• Think about your retirement lifestyle. You may know that you want to retire early – but have you thought about what you want to do with your newfound time? Will you simply stay close to home and pursue your hobbies? Do you dream of spending two months each winter on a tropical island? Or are you thinking of opening your own small business or doing some consulting? Different retirement lifestyles can have vastly different price tags. Once you’ve envisioned your future, you can develop a saving and investment plan to help you get there.

• Boost contributions to your retirement plans. If you want to retire early, you may well need to accelerate your contributions to your retirement accounts, such as your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan. You may need to cut back in other areas of your life to maximize the amounts you put into your retirement plans, but this sacri¿ce may be worth it to you.

• Invest for growth. Your investment strategy essentially should be based on three key factors: your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon.

When you change any one of these variables, it will affect the others.

So, if you shorten your time horizon by retiring early, you may well need to reconsider your risk tolerance. Speci¿cally, you may need to accept a somewhat higher level of investment risk so you can invest for greater growth potential.

• Keep a lid on your debt load. It’s easier said than done, but try to manage your debt load as tightly as possible. The lower your monthly debt payments, the more you can contribute to your retirement plans.

Life is unpredictable. Even if you take all the steps described above, you may still fall short of your goal of retiring early. While this may be somewhat disappointing, you might ¿nd that adding just a few more years of work can be bene¿cial to building resources for your chosen retirement lifestyle. For one thing, you can continue contributing to your IRA and your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan.

Plus, if you’re still working, you may be able to afford delaying your Social Security payments until you’re closer to your “normal” retirement age, which, as de¿ned by the Social Security Administration, likely will be 66 or 67. The longer you put off taking these bene¿ts, the bigger your monthly checks, although they will max out once you reach 70.

And even if you are not able to retire early, some of the moves you took to reach that goal – such as contributing as much as you could afford to your IRA and 401(k), controlling your debts, and so on – may pay off for you during your retirement – whenever it begins.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Heidi Gemuenden, AAMS® Financial Advisor 41 Judd Street, Marine-On-St. Croix, MN (651) 433-1776

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

Utility poles connecting the Zavoral solar array to Xcel Energy’s grid have gotten a rise out of Scandia residents.

“The issue has been the visibility of the poles and how it impacts the view of the river,” Scandia City Administrator Neil Soltis explained to council members Nov. 21. “That is one of the nice views when you come down the hill. It’s unfortunate this time of the year — some of that could potentially be screened by deciduous trees.”

The solar farm’s landscape plan calls for sixfoot plants, which won’t camouflage the group of eight utility poles.

“I think people were surprised by their visibility,” Soltis said.

“One of the issues is that … each of the megawatt systems needs to be individually metered.

Each system is going to separate poles with meters, then being grouped together and then into the grid.”

Xcel has agreed to investigate the cost of relocating the poles to the south, where trees and a hill would screen the

CITY OF SCANDIA

The City of Scandia is working with Xcel Energy to see whether the company could move a group of power poles recently erected at the Zavoral solar farm site.

view, but whether that plan will be actionable is unknown.

“That would cause a discussion about — if it is feasible — how it might be financed,” said Soltis.

For Mayor Christine Maefsky, the dilemma is vindication of the council’s choice in September to repeal Scandia’s ordinance allowing commercial solar installations.

“This happening is one of reasons I’m very glad we decided to stop these until we see the implications,” she said.

Other business • The council approved

the selection of Terry Gorham as Parks and Recreation Committee chair and Dustin Hegland as vice chair.

• No residents spoke during a public hearing regarding the city’s intent to collect unpaid fees for the 201 and Uptown sewer systems via property taxes. The council later resolved add unpaid fees to each user’s 2018 property tax statement, with an interest rate of 12 percent per year.

• Peter and Colleen Nora of plastics manufacturing company PN Products, and Sharon Lund were honored with

Scandia Good Neighbor Awards (see related article in this edition).

• A minor subdivision was approved at 20205 Oxboro Lane, a setback variance approved at 18605 Langly Court and an interim use permit for a commercial kennel at 21775 Manning Trail.

• The city will begin gathering data on driver speeds in the Tii Gavo development which may eventually result in the installation of speed limit signs.

The next scheduled meeting of the Scandia City Council is 6:30 p.m., Wed., Dec. 6.

DEATHS: Apparent murder-suicide in Scandia Nov. 19 FROM PAGE 1

there is no threat to the public.

The Seeferts were not longtime Scandia residents, but had lived in town for several years. Clarence, a retired truck driver, had

been an on-call snowplow driver for the City of Scandia since the fall of 2013.

The Forest Lake Times reports that the couple was last seen Friday, Nov. 17, and a neighbor called the welfare check on Sun-

day night after Clarence failed to attend a conceal and carry class that morning, arousing suspicion that something was amiss.

The Messenger will report on further information as it becomes available.

BOOK: Honors Swedish American traditions, welcomes change FROM PAGE 1

“It means serving a dish from the culture of a new family member or putting a unique spin on old recipes.”

Sprinkled between the

cookbook’s recipes and photographs, Johnson and others reflect on time-honored holiday rituals. After divulging that her son found Swedish meatballs dry until he had them with sauce

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at IKEA, and that few in her family genuinely like traditional rice pudding (a side dish in this context, not a dessert), contributor Kristine Bolander notes that the holiday recipes aren’t really about flavor at all.

“In the end it is not about whether these are good recipes or not,” she writes. “It is about the whole family in the kitchen, stirring the rice in milk or frying the meatballs. It is remembering the year we could not find cinnamon zwie-

back or whole cardamom and had to improvise.

It is, like many family recipes, much more about family than the recipe. …

“This whole thing started with one Swede, my grandfather,” she concludes, “and has been carried on by non-Swedes and quarter-Swedes since.”

At press, “Jul” was available at the Gammelgården Butik; inventory may be limited.

Brighter smiles, happier you • Family dentistry • Soothing, comfortable environment • New patients welcome • Most insurance accepted Sunnie Adsitt, DDS 1395 Curve Crest Blvd., Stillwater 651-430-0036 | healthpartners.com/threeriversdental

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017

COUNTRY MESSENGER

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DECEMBER1

gammelgardenmuseum. org/events.

Winter bird walk Join Kyle TePoel on Fri, Dec. 1 at 9 a.m. for a special winter bird walk at William O’Brien State Park. TePoel is a naturalist who has worked with the National Audubon Society and the National Park Service. He has been doing guided bird hikes since 2008. We will be meeting at the William O’Brien Visitor Center. Bring a pair of binoculars or one will be provided for your use. A special walk you do not want to miss! WOB State Park is two miles north of Marine On St. Croix, on Highway 95. Cars entering the park need a State Park vehicle permit. Thanks for supporting your state parks!

DECEMBER 10 Lucia Dagen Welcome the jul season with the celebration of Lucia in Gammelgården’s GammelKyrkan. Dress warmly, the 1856 church has no heat.

Brief Swedish prayer services at 6 and 8 a.m. are followed by breakfast at the Scandia Community Center, 7 and 9 a.m. (breakfast: $15/$5 for children under 12).

ONGOING Stillwater support group for families

Shaker tape basket weaving class Lea Rasmussen, expert basket maker who has been weaving baskets for over 40 years, will be conducting a basket making class at William O’Brien State Park. The date is Fri. Dec. 1, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the William O’Brien State Park Visitor Center. The cost ($25) covers all materials, personal instruction and light refreshments. The finished basket is 11 long, 5.5 inches wide and 7 inches tall. Space is limited so please call William O’Brien at 651-433-0500 ext. 227 to sign-up or for more information. WOB State Park is two miles north of Marine On St. Croix, on Highway 95.

Cars entering the park need a State Park vehicle permit. Thanks for supporting your state parks!

DECEMBER 2 Annie’s Swedish Coffee Parties Annie, Gammelgården’s oldest resident, is the inspiration behind our traditional Swedish three-course Coffee Party. $15 per person.

Choose from 10 a.m. or 1 p.m., Dec. 2 or Dec. 9.

Register at gammelgar-

CAROL SEEFELDT

The season of giving Several Lions from the Scania-Marine Lions Club helped raise money for the Salvation Army by ringing bells at the Forest Lake Cub Foods on Saturday, Nov 18. Pictured: Lion Donna Granberg, Lion Denny Seefeldt, and Lions Janeen and Dave Berchem.

denmuseum.org/events.

Holiday Market to benefit River Grove Elementary A Holiday Market Fundraiser is planned Dec. 2, from 1-4 at 15520 Square Lake Trl. N., Stillwater. Get a little shopping in while helping raise money for River Grove Elementary!

Wide variety of local vendors are planned.

Evergreen Ball La Danza Dance Club Presents: Evergreen Ball. The Heights Hall & Club (5880 Omaha Ave. N, Oak Park Hgts). Live Music: Kico Rangel. Social Hour: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Dance: 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Attire: formal. There is a fee. FFI: ladanzastillwater@hotmail.com, facebook.com/LaDan-

zaDanceClub/Events or 651/238-7636.

Winter camping: All you need to know Don’t let cold weather stop you from traveling outdoors for half the year. Learning how to camp comfortably in the winter will allow you to see a whole new world.

On Sat., Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. join Bear Paulsen, general manager of Northstar Canoes, for a morning of learning about how to stay warm in the cold.

He’ll cover clothing, safety and the all-important how to sleep comfortably through the long winter night. He’ll discuss how to choose a campsite, shelter options and winter travel from

backpacking to pulling a sled through the BWCA. Join us at the William O’Brien Visitor Center for this free program in the park. WOB State Park is two miles north of Marine On St. Croix, on Highway 95. Cars entering the park need a State Park vehicle permit. Thanks for supporting your state parks!

DECEMBER 5 An Evening of Holiday Peace During the holiday season, music often speaks to our hearts, helping to relax us and setting the tone for a peaceful holiday season. Join Tami Briggs, therapeutic harpist, as she shares powerful stories and

Christmas readings and plays beautiful harp holiday music. We will explore how music can be a tool for care of yourself, especially during the holidays. December 5, 6 p.m., with refreshments beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Salem Lutheran Church (14940 62nd St. N., Stillwater). Sponsored by the St. Croix Valley Faith Community Nurses.

DECEMBER 9 Annie’s Swedish Coffee Parties Annie, Gammelgården’s oldest resident, is the inspiration behind our traditional Swedish three-course Coffee Party. $15 per person.

Choose from 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Dec. 9. Register at

NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) sponsors free support groups for families who have a relative with a mental illness.

Led by trained facilitators who have a family member with mental illness, the support groups help families develop better coping skills and find strength through sharing their experiences. The group meets on the first and third Mondays of each month, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Stillwater Library, 224 Third St. N., in Margaret Rivers Room A. Please use the Third Street entrance and free parking ramp.

FFI: Call Marie or Bob at 651-770-1436.

Alcoholics Anonymous Beginning Jan. 22, a group will meet Mondays, 7 p.m., at Elim Lutheran Church, Scandia, in Room LL2 (lower level 2). Enter through the preschool door.

Tri-County Seniors (50+) DFL Luncheon Meeting (Eastern Anoka, Southern Chisago, & Northern Washington County’s) 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. (First Tuesday of each Month) Vannellis By The Lake Restaurant - Broadway & 55 - So. Lake Street.

Forest Lake, MN 55025 For more information email: ckgenz@msn.com or call 763-227-7536.

HANG UP ON FRAUD. Stop fraud before it starts. Get a FREE fraud prevention toolkit for older adults.

EMAIL: consumer.protection@state.mn.us CALL: 651-539-1600 / 800-657-3602 (toll-free outside the Twin Cities)

4 COUNTRY MESSENGER

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Do unto others…

I

’ve been thinking about the incidents of sexual harassment that have been coming to light on a seemingly daily basis.

From Hollywood to news outlets to the halls of power in government, it seems that the floodgates have opened and victims who felt powerless in the past are now coming forward to confront their attackers.

I feel the need to disclose that I am a man, have always been a man and have some inherit biases. I’m a husband and father of two daughters and two granddaughters, so I have opinions about how females of all ages deserve to be treated. That being said, I have a few thoughts on this Publisher topic.

First and foremost, it is healthy for our society to be having a Tom Stangl discussion about this issue. Persons in positions of authority and power have a great responsibility to always do the right thing and should never be allowed to use this power to abuse others.

People have a right and an expectation to be treated with respect and dignity, two of what I believe are our most basic of human rights.

But somehow, somewhere, many have lost their way.

This is not a new problem, nor is it one that will be solved quickly or easily.

Changes in morality have obviously led some to believe that truly anything goes and even an emphatic refusal by the person being victimized no longer matters.

When my wife and I were raising our daughters, I tried to make the rules of acceptable behavior as straight forward as possible. There was one basic rule, which I believe if everyone followed, everything else would fall in line.

This magical rule? It’s a “golden” one: treat others as you would like to be treated.

It worked out fairly well with our children. Not sharing toys? How would you like it if someone wouldn’t let you play with that toy? You wouldn’t?

So why is it OK for you to be doing it? It’s not? OK then, let’s start sharing.

I honestly believe if people would follow this one simple rule, things in the world would be much better. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to have an authority figure come and remind you about doing the right thing every now and then.

But part of the problem today is that we don’t have that authority figure to remind us when we have lost our way. Some of the very people who are in trouble are people who should know better and model better behavior.

There have been sexual scandals at nearly every level of our society, at institutions that we have trusted and relied upon for guidance and protection. So where do we turn?

I believe we need to look to ourselves.

By changing our own behavior and not accepting bad behavior, we will begin to make a difference. These types of activities have been going on for centuries and we only gave it a name and passed legislation to protect persons from harassment less than 50 years ago.

If we were to all truly adopt and live the “golden rule,” many of these problems would go away.

Simple? Yes. Impossible? No. Only by seeking better behavior and giving better behavior will we ever be able to change things.

The past few weeks have given us a perfect chance to begin.

As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress. com, telephone 715-268-8101 or write me at P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI, 54001.

Thanks for reading; I’ll keep in touch. Feel free to do the same.

COUNTRY

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Thanksgiving Venison Dinner

B

y the time I heard the noise behind me it was too late to make a move. At times like these we hunters feel tempted to try to turn our head just a little bit to get a peek but that’s the worst thing to do because we always get caught. Then out of the corner of my eye I caught movement because this deer was only 15 yards away with its nose on the ground. It had to be a buck! When it moved behind a big oak I made my move, flipping back my mitten to get my trigger finger out while raising the gun to my shoulder. I waited for an eternity but no sign of the deer. I wondered if it had taken a hard right and was walking off under cover of the big oak.

Opening day of Wisconsin’s Thanksgiving Week Deer Hunt has Wild River come and gone with some hunters having meat in their freezer. Again Trails this year our group consisted of Wisconsinites Chris Lemay, camp Jim Bennett organizer, son Josh Bennett and me.

The other members who take up room and board in the deer shack are Minnesotans Bob LeMay, Chris’s dad, and Dave and Joel Tupy, all experienced Buck Slayers!

We heard lots of shooting opening day but other people’s shoots do not put meat on our table. Those shots do provide entertainment as hunters try to figure out what’s happening. A single shot usually indicates dead deer and I think two shots mean the

same. When I hear 3, 4, or 5 shots I begin to think that deer got away. I figure they let some shots fly at a running deer and missed. If more shots follow right after that first burst in the same area it means that a deer is running and other hunters are shooting, missing or hoping to get lucky!

My opening morning started out well as I listened to shots in the distance when a deer came my way.

The small doe stopped, giving me a perfect 50 yard shot. I dropped the deer where it stood. After field dressing it I returned to my blind when another antlerless deer came down the same trail but with my antlerless tag filled I just sat back and watched it wander off. No one else drew blood on the opener and only half saw deer; in fact, I was the only one to bring home deer this year.

The second morning was when the deer snuck in behind me and disappeared behind a couple of large oaks close together seemingly vanishing like deer can do. But time passes slowly when you’re excited and finally the deer popped out from behind the oaks and started to move quickly up the knoll. The scope was already on the shoulder and a second later I had my second deer on the ground, just a small buck but meat for my family. Last week’s Thanksgiving dinner consisted of goodies from my garden, carrots and potatoes as well as an apple pie off one of my trees and the main course was venison, of course.

Jim Bennett is an outdoorsman who lives and worked in the St. Croix River Valley and can be reached at jamesbennett24@gmail.com

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Pre-election parties highlight candidate disparities

Caramel French toast for breakfast

A

fter Thanksgiving dinner I declared, “I won’t be able to eat again for 3 days.� Miraculously, I woke up starving the next morning. Our Thanksgiving meal is always decadent. Everyone brings their best and favorite side dish and dessert.

The next morning, I crave something just as luxurious for breakfast, but I never plan anything special. However, I have next year’s menu set. Caramel roll French toast is front and center on the menu, with fresh fruit and coffee. me, I am not going to wait Wild Chow anTrust entire year to make this dish— we love French toast and make it Lisa Erickson all the time. This French toast recipe is something you can prepare ahead of time and if you have any left over bread from Thanksgiving that makes it even better.

My company will thank me—if there is any next year. If they do come back, I don’t think they will soon forget being offered cold leftover turkey and mashed potatoes as an option for breakfast. The cold turkey sure made the pie look amazing!

Caramel French Toast Serves 6-8

1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream 2/3 cup chopped pecans 12 slices French-style bread or leftover or stale bread 6 eggs 1 1/2 cups whole milk 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. cloves 1/4 tsp. salt

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, butter and ice cream. Heat for 1-2 minutes in the microwave until the ice cream is melted and sugar is dissolved, stirring intermittently while cooking.

Pour sauce into the bottom of 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with the pecans. Place 6 slices of bread on top of the sauce and layer remaining 6 slices of bread over the top of the first 6.

In a bowl, combine eggs, milk, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon and salt; whisk until combine. Pour egg mixture evenly over bread slices. Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for 1 hour or overnight—up to 8 hours. Press bread into mixture so it absorbs liquid.

When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Remove the French toast from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to baking. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until lightly browned. Serve with butter and fresh fruit.

Lisa Erickson is a food columnist who loves adventure and food. You can find more recipes at www. wild-chow.com or email her at wildchowrecipes@ gmail.com.

Stillwater school calendar approved The 2018-2019 school year will begin the week before Labor Day, and features staggered starts to provide students transitioning to new buildings with time to familiarize themselves with their new school environments.

The calendar will also delay the start of the year for all students in grades K-5 by two days.

This delay allows time for individual conferences to be held between students and parents and their new teacher.

During the conferences

teachers will begin to build a solid relationship with families, and get to know their students’ strengths and needs through individual reading conferences.

The first day of school will be: • Aug. 27 for grades 6 and 9 • Aug. 28 for grades 7, 8, 10-12 • Aug. 29 for grades K-5 (Ready, Set, Go conferences will be held on Aug. 27 and 28).

FFI: visit https:// stillwaterschools.org/ calendars.

With seven days remaining until the mayoral “Race of the Century,� groups gathered throughout Lennox Valley to cheer on their candidates. “Silver Tongue� Dick Bland held his campaign gala in the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, where 200 supporters gathered to celebrate his upcoming victory. Red, white and blue streamers hung throughout the room, alongside photos of Bland glued to letter-size sheets of red, white and blue construction paper. All who gathered knew Silver Tongue had at least two advantages in the race. First, he hadn’t angered many good folks over the past four years, which was quite the accomplishment for an incumbent in the Valley. If it hadn’t been for the furor over egg prices and the Federal Reserve System, folks would have been hard-pressed to name any issue that divided the community over the previous four years.

Bland’s second advantage was self-evident. Everyone in the room was quite certain that God was on Dick’s side. After all, he was a loyal church-goer, with 17 years of Sunday School perfect attendance pins to show for it. With God on his side, the mayor was a shoo-in.

The gala began with a somber yet powerful prayer by the church’s pastor, Brother Billy Joe Prather. That was followed by a rousing rendition of “Onward Christian Soldiers,� sung by the attendees and accompanied by Loraine Sutherland, First Baptist

Church pianist.

Two miles away, on Highway 11, there was another celebration taking place. The VFW was the perfect spot for Raymond Cooper’s “Campaign Bash,� as he had referred to it during his radio talk show for the past five days.

There were no prayers at Raymond’s celebration. There were no choirs or hymns. There were, however, tipsy veterans mixing alongside Raymond’s most fervent supporters. And, instead of hymns, the two cracked speakers in the jukebox blared “All My Exes Live in Texas.� To be fair, there were a few inebriated celebrants singing along.

Juliet Stoughton, known until recently as “Claire� to the few folks she had met in the Valley, held a less animated event than her opponents. Supported by her friend and pastor, Sarah HydenSmith, along with Iris Long, editor of The Hometown News, Juliet listened as the two of them discussed campaign strategy, all the while knowing her chances of winning were someplace between slim and none.

Fortunately, Iris and Sarah were able to convince Juliet not to make the annual First Baptist Church Men’s Breakfast and Turkey Shoot an issue in the campaign. Long shared that she planned to endorse a candidate in the upcoming edition of The Hometown News, and pancakes and turkeys didn’t make for a suitable campaign platform.

Other than a story announcing Juliet’s campaign in the previous

edition of the paper, there had been little notice of her candidacy. Cooper, obviously aware her chances of winning were miniscule, ignored Juliet’s campaign after initially reacting to the news when she entered the race. “Silver Tongue� seemed content to focus on his main adversary, Raymond Cooper.

With Cooper running on the slogan, “In your heart, you know he’s right,� borrowed from Barry Goldwater’s 1964 presidential campaign, and Bland sticking with the rallying cry from his fi rst race, “Stand with Bland,�

Juliet needed a catchy and memorable slogan, something to cause voters to recognize she was a viable candidate.

That’s when it came to her – “Vote for the egg-cellent, egg-citing candidate, Juliet Stoughton!� “That’s funny,� quipped Sarah. “I love it,� Iris chimed in. “It’s funny, and it reminds voters of Raymond’s involvement in the egg scandal.�

Four hours later, reading over their notes one last time, Iris declared, “It just might work.�

Meanwhile, Cooper acted as though he hadn’t a care in the world as Juliet’s troops discussed campaign strategy.

All the while, Raymond laughed and danced with his adoring fans as George Strait sang, “And that’s why I hang my hat in Tennessee.�

Great Gift Idea! Order your copy of Lennox Valley: The Book at Amazon.com.

So many big feet

W

hat’s the plural of Bigfoot? Bigfoots? Bigfeet?

I ask because, based on reports from several readers, it seems there’s more than one Bigfoot out there.

If you’ve just tuned in, I’m referring to the cutout silhouettes seen on roadsides that I wrote about two weeks ago. As of press time, the living species remains elusive.

A coworker who regularly drives on Olinda Trail north of Scandia tells me Bigfoot was there as recently as last week. I tried to spot him one day with no success, and will have to try again.

And the Bigfoot on the east side of Highway 61 heading north to Forest Lake was sighted again Nov. Editor 15 — this time wearing an orange Suzanne Lindgren stocking cap so as not to be mistaken for a deer. “Clearly he is a wily critter,� writes Brian Gould, who saw him sporting the hat, “and that’s why he has survived all these years without being captured.�

A Bigfoot was photographed in the woods at Arcola Mills in October, reports Fitzie Heimdahl, who even posted the photo (taken by Ron Brenner during a Pictures of Stillwater event) to prove it.

So many big feet.

Just as I was wondering whether any of the Bigfoot clan were living in Wisconsin, former Sun and Country Messenger editor Jennifer Farchione chimed in to say she’s seen one in Hudson. If you’re headed westbound on I-94, it’s before Exit 4, off in the hills. Huzzah!

It’s been great fun to piece this together. But all these sightings kind of turn the legend of Bigfoot on its head. According to folklore, Bigfoot always seems to be male. But if there are many, some must be female, right? Do members of the species (Latin name pending) live together or reside in solitude? A person can hardly help but wonder.

Anyway, I think we can be fairly certain that there is more than one Bigfoot out there — the cutout silhouettes at least. And it seems that the guardian of this art project keeps a fairly close watch on them. That’s assuming Bigfoot didn’t just walk in to Cabela’s and buy a stocking cap, which might have made a different page of the paper.

Keep the sightings coming. Although I’ve been delighted with all the reports, I’m still no closer to figuring out who’s behind it.

But I suppose that’s part of the fun.

I welcome your response to this editorial column: editor@countrymessenger.com.

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Give Life…Give Hope launches with blood drive, comfort bag project Sophia Nienaber, an 11th grade homeschooled student in Scandia, is launching Give Life…Give Hope in December. This endeavor includes hosting quarterly blood drives as well as doing service projects that encourage the public to do hands-on activities that make a positive difference in the lives of those who are struggling medically, financially, or educationally.

The first blood drive will be held at Crossroads Church’s activity building at 17445 Notre Dame Street NE in Forest Lake on Saturday, December 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in conjunction with a holiday fair held by HERO (Home Educators Resource Organization - a homeschool co-op).

At the blood drive, volunteers and blood donors are invited to assemble 30 comfort bags for children with cancer who may need a blood transfusion. One of the items in the bags are handmade fleece-tied blankets which will be created that day.

“We are doing the bags on the same day as the blood drive so people can better understand how giving blood can help children who have cancer,” said Sophia Nienaber, founder/director of Give Life…Give Hope. “Over 15,000 children each year are diagnosed with cancer, many of whom will go undergo chemotherapy and may need a blood transfusion.”

While adults or teens (16 years or older) are donating blood, children and younger siblings – as well as peo-

ple of all ages from the community – can work on tying the quilts or filling the bags. HERO is holding a holiday fair on the same day (from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. also at Crossroad Church’s activity building). In this way, the public can “Stop, Shop, and Give Blood” – they can donate blood, do a service project, and shop for holiday gifts.

To donate blood on December 2, please visit http://www.redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code HERO (all capital letters). It is best to make an appointment so the waiting time is minimal.

Give Life…Give Hope’s next blood drive will be held in Scandia at the Scandia Community Center in March 2018. It also will include service projects and collection drives that benefit various local, regional, national, and global non-profits.

“I am very happy that this project has received support from donors throughout the United States as well as from the Disney Be Inspired Grant program and Youth Service America.

The donations and grant are helping offer the event to the community and bring comfort to 30 children with cancer,” Sophia shared.

For more information, visit: https:// www.sophianienaber.com/service-projects/ or contact Sophia Nienaber at sophianienaber@icloud.com . Please come join us for a fun and meaningful day of giving.

Scandia students work with MNDOT to build bridges

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Minnesota Department of Transportation engineer Scott Larson and third graders in Scandia place their fully made bridge across two tables.

The third grade class of Scandia Elementary met with Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) engineer Scott Larson on Nov. 9 to learn how to build bridges.

The class is studying the IB unit, “Complex Systems Affect Nature and Society,” one of the six transdisciplinary themes taught each year in the school. It falls under the main theme of “How We Organize Ourselves.”

This particular unit led the students to think about one of the bigger systems in Minnesota: transportation. With the many waterways and highways that reside in the state, it is necessary to have a bridge system in place that is effective and efficient. Many of the students have parents that make daily commutes using the various bridge systems.

During the building process, students each played one of four roles:

builder, safety inspector, project manager and parts supplier. Through the process, the students and Larson built bridges with metal girders, wooden dowels, washers, nuts and bolts that would support a student who would crawl through it. Through the activity, the students were able to learn about the complex bridge system and how it helps organize our world.

SECURITY STATE AGENCY invites you to join us at our

Holiday Open House Friday, December 8 • 9 am - 6 pm

Security State Bank of Marine

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE December 8th

Serving Coīee, Cookies & Cider Stop in to pick up a calendar and giŌ!

Bring a Food DonaƟon - Marine & Forest Lake locaƟons only Anonymous Santa DonaƟons accepted at Chisago Lakes locaƟon only Document shredding provided by Shred-It, Scandia locaƟon only

Santa will be in Marine, Scandia & Chisago Lakes at 4:00 p.m.

Reindeer Sleigh Rides at the Marine oĸce We hope to see you 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Security State Bank of Marine, Scandia Office, Hwy 97

Serving Cookies, Cider & Coffee Happy Holidays!

JoAnn Buse and Jane Dreyer, Agents

Stop in and see Santa Claus from 4 - 6 p.m.

Visit our open house and receive a Free Gift!

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017

COUNTRY MESSENGER

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Scandia City Council honors PN Products and Sharon Lund with Scandia Good Neighbor Award The Scandia Good Neighbor Award honors individuals, businesses, civic groups who, in big or little ways, make our community a better place to live.

Scandia Mayor Christine Maefsky presented Good Neighbor Award Proclamations to PN Products owners Peter and Colleen Nora and to Sharon Lund at the November 21, 2017 City Council meeting.

PN Products was nominated by Travis Loeffler on behalf of the Scandia Fire and Rescue Department, who wrote "Since 1984, PN Products has been a silent investor in the city and the fire department in a very big way.

Peter has been on the department for over 34 years, serving in various leadership roles. Their business employs firefighters who may be the only daytime responders available at times, and who, while being kept on the PN clock, were released from their jobs to respond to calls. The Noras have donated the use of their facility for firefighter training, as well as

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Left to right: Scandia Mayor Christine Maefsky with Good Neighbor Award winners Sharon Lund, Colleen Nora and Peter Nora.

engraved signage and employee wages over the years, and have humbly dedicated their support and caring for the community in many ways.”

Sharon Lund was nominated by Holly Harden, who wrote “Sharon embodies every quality of a Good Neighbor: she is mindful, welcoming, caring, helpful, hard-working, compassionate, friendly and aware; quick to respond when someone is in need; has remarkable persistence and tenacity.

For the past 17 years Sharon Lund has brought to Scandia, via Elim Church, the Befrienders Program which leads small groups through a series of personalized sessions to educate everyone involved in ways of understanding and reaching out to those in our midst who are experiencing life challenges.

Sharon is responsible for creating this community of Scandia Befrienders; people now eager to reach out to welcome and help those in need. Sharon lives from her heart."

DNR issues ice warning The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has issued its annual ice safety warning for lakes with winter aeration systems.

Aeration creates areas of thin ice and open water that are extremely hazardous to people and pets. Open water areas can shift or change shapes depending on weather conditions, and leaks may develop in airlines, creating other areas of weak ice or open water.

The updated list of aerated lakes and more information is available at mndnr.gov/eco/lakeaeration (see sidebar for local lakes).

“We’re urging people to use caution anytime they venture onto lake ice, especially at night,” said Amanda Yourd, DNR hydrologist and aeration coordinator.

“Extreme care should be taken on aerated lakes. Watch for the large orange and black warning signs at high use public accesses and the required thin ice signs around open water areas.”

Aeration systems help prevent winterkill of fish populations by adding oxygen to the lake, and

in certain situations to protect shorelines from ice damage. They are generally operated from the time the lakes freeze until the ice breaks up in the spring. About 280 lakes will have aeration systems operating on them this winter. Private hatchery operators also use aeration systems, usually on small lakes without public accesses.

A permit from the DNR is required to install and operate an aeration system. Permit holders must publish public notices, post warning signs, and inspect the systems at least once every seven days. Liability insurance is generally required of private groups or citizens operating aeration systems in protected

waters. Watch for notices in your local media identifying aerated lakes in your area. DNR staff ensure permittees comply with all requirements and regularly inspect systems for safety.

Some municipalities may have ordinances that prohibit entering into the thin ice marked area and/or prohibit the night use of motorized vehicles on lakes with aeration systems in operation. These local regulations are often posted at accesses where they apply.

Questions concerning aeration or thin ice can be answered by calling a regional or area fisheries office or the Department of Natural Resources toll-free at 888-MINNDNR (888-646-6367).

Chisago County: Moody

2017 St. Croix Valley

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION! Customers will shop at participating merchants businesses and get their Celebration Card stamped for every dollar they spend. When their card is completely full, they may get another and leave completed cards at the last business or bring it to The Sun ofҕce.

St. Croix Valley Christmas Cel

ebration Card

Name ________________ $ 00 ____________________ 5____ $500 ____________________ Address ________________ ___ ____________________ ____________________ Phone________________ _____ ____________________ $ 00 $1000 ____________________ 5 $500 Grand Prize Drawing _______ on Dec. 18, 2017 • Published in the

Thank You for Shopping

Croix Falls • Baribeau Implement - St. Croix Falls • Bill’s Ace Hardware - Osceola • Brickfire Pizza - Osceol a • Brookside Bar & Grill - Marine On St. Croix • Cascade BP - Osceol a • Country Mess Messen essen e ger Newspaper err (Sun Of Office) • Cobble obbler bblerr Shop - St. St Croix Fallss • Copy opy Shop - St. Cr Croix Cro r Falls • Crabtree’s Gard Garden Gate - Marine G Garde arine rine on S St. Cro Croix Croi • Creation reation Station/Expre Expressions Coffeeho Expres offeehou house use se - Osceo Osceola • Crystal ystal stal al Ball Farms - Osceol eo olaa • Dalles House Resta Restaurant ntt - St. Croix Falls • Design D s of Swede Swed Sweden - Scandi candia andiaa • Dick’s ck’s k’ss F Fresh M Market - Osceola • Dresser Food & Liquor - Dresser • Fashions of Manhattan - Osceola

$

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There is no better time to say Thank You and wish our Customers and Friends a Very Happy Holiday Season!

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M E R C H A N T S :

• Fullerton (TBC) Lumbe r - Osceola • Lamperts - St. Croix Falls • The Looking Glass Osceola • Leroux’s - Scandia • Marine General Store ore - M Marinee on St. Croix • Motion Trophies Laser En Engravvin E in ing ng - Osceola • Mrs I’s Yarn Parlor Os Osc Osceola • Olde Courthouse Shopp Shoppes - Os Osceol sceolaa • Osceola Auto Body - Osc Osceola Os • Osceola Auto Sales -O Osceola Os • Osceola Cleaners Osceola Osc Osce • Osceola Holiday - Osce Osceo Osceola •O Osceola Inte Osceo Interiors - Osceola • Osceola Lanes - Osceol a • Paradise Pizza - Osceol a • Pinky’s Dog Grooming - Shafer • Scandia Butik & Gift Shop/Gammelgärden

ALLY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. SHOP LOCAL

• Scandia Olde Towne Liquor - Scandia of this card.

• Scandia Pizza - Scandi a ating businesses on the front part any or all of the particip • Scott’ss Tire Service Shop -at ses before Dec. 15, East Farmi Farmington drop o at any of the participating busines ff a off • Shippin card and ipping pping g & Handlin the entire out Dec. 18, 2017 Fill g - St. t. Croix Falls will be contacted by phone by in winner • State One w ate tee Farm p.m.

Insuran before ce/Mikee 4:00 2013 Monroe - Osce Osceo Osceola • St. Croix C Chocolate Co. - Marine On St. C Croix Cr • Studio udio dio A S Salon Spa - Osceol 00 ceeolaa 00 $ 00 $ 00 $ • Sue’s 00 $ ue’s e’s Bar & Grill - D 00 $ 00 $ $ r 00 $ Dresseer00 $e Sun Newsp • The he ape - Osceol aper sccceolaa • Tippy ppy py Canoes - Os Osceola Osc 00 • TrapRo apRock R ck Inn & Restaurant 00 $ 00 $ 00 $ - Dresser 00 $ 00 $ • Unlimited Styling 00 $ $ 00 $ - Osceol00 $ a • Valley Spirits - Osceol a • Video Den - Osceola • Village Pizzeria - Dresse r • Wildwood Flowers Osceola • Wild Mountain - Taylors Falls

SAMPLE

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20 Sun & Country Messenger 00 00 $1000 $1000 $10 $ in the St. Croix Valley $1000 $1000 $1000 $10 0000 $1000 10

P A R T I C I P A T I N G • Abrahamson Nurser y - St.

Aerated lakes Washington County: Big Marine Cloverdale Colby Goose McDonald Mud (Battle Creek) Oneka Pine Tree Ria* Sand Shields White Bear

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You have until December 15 to complete your cards. Additional cards will be available at The Sun/Country Messenger office or at the participating businesses. The winner will be announced in the December 20 Edition of The Sun/ Celebration Card Country Messenger. If you’re the winner, inserted in this spend your Christmas Cash at any of the Edition of The Sun participating businesses. It’s that EASY! & Country Messenger COUNTRY

Serving Polk County’s St. Stt Croix Cro roiix ix Valley Vall allley ley si sinc since ncee 18 1897 97

Serving Marine on St. Croix, Scandia, May Township

Back side of card

8 COUNTRY MESSENGER

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 www.countrymessenger.com

Elected board at Washington Conservation District provides leadership behind the scenes Bob Rosenquist

BY ANGIE HONG EAST METRO WATER

During the 1930s, millions of Americans struggled to survive an economic depression and severe drought. In the wake of the Dust Bowl, Minnesota passed legislation to create Soil and Water Conservation Districts – county-wide local units of government that could work directly with farmers and other landowners to protect valuable farmland, nurture soil health, repair damage caused by erosion, and preserve healthy lakes and rivers. From this legislation, Washington Conservation District (WCD) was established in 1942.

The District is governed by five locally elected supervisors who represent the five commissioner districts in the county. Though WCD board members rarely end up in the spotlight, their leadership helps to guide land and water protection efforts across Washington County.

Louise Smallidge Louise Smallidge (District 4) is the longest-running member of the WCD Board of Supervisors and currently serves as the vice-chair. She and her husband Gene first purchased farmland in Cottage Grove in 1965 in an area that was then known as Langdon (across from Renewal by Anderson today). The Smallidges employ a variety of conservation practices on their land, including grassed waterways, rotational grazing, and conservation tillage, and were honored as the WCD Outstanding Conservationists in 1975.

Over the nearly 20 years Louise has

SUBMITTED

Washington Conservation District board members at the WCD’s 75th Anniversary celebration in September. From left: Bob Rosenquist, Louise Smallidge, John Rheinberger, Diane Blake.

Not pictured: Jim Levitt.

served on the board, she has watched Washington County transition from mostly agricultural to rapidly developing. “I’m proud of the fact that the WCD was able to navigate that transition and grow,” she says. Louise is also proud of the strong relationships the WCD has built with the county and watershed management organizations over the years.

John Rheinberger Board president John Rheinberger (District 3) first developed his love for nature while exploring and playing in the undeveloped ravines of Stillwater as a child. Back then, he says, the city looked much different than it does today. There was coal debris along the riverway, the air was filled with smog,

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and people dumped litter and waste into the woods and ravines around town. Over the years, John has served on the Washington County Parks Commission, the City of Stillwater Planning Commission, Stillwater City Council, and the County Groundwater Committee. John sees a lot of reasons to feel hopeful about the future of conservation in Washington County based on the progress we have made so far.

One of his biggest priorities is protecting groundwater resources in the area for the future. “We can’t go back to the way it was in the 1950s when our rivers and air were so polluted,” he says.

“But, time is of the essence when it comes to conservation. We need action now.”

CLUES ACROSS 1. Emaciation 6. Exchequer 10. Sacs where fungi develop 14. First letter of the Hebrew alphabet 15. Unexplored waters 17. Berkeley athletes 19. Norse giantess 20. Crater on the moon 21. Resembles velvet 22. Pearl Jam’s debut album 23. Hair-like structure 24. Turfs 26. Put in advance 29. First son of Lot 31. Native American language 32. Furry family member 34. Vedic God of fire 35. Genie 37. German city 38. Acquire 39. Cambodia currency 40. A person from a Balkan republic 41. More simple 43. Bleats 45. “The other white meat” 46. __ student: learns healing 47. 04492, town in Maine 49. Paddle 50. Airline once owned by Howard Hughes 53. Big 10 athlete 57. Inflammation of the intestine 58. Key’s comedic partner 59. Chamomile and black are two 60. Distress signal 61. Assn. for translators CLUES DOWN 1. Measures engine speed (abbr.)

2. Wings 3. Founded a phone company 4. Upon 5. Superhigh frequency

Bob Rosenquist (District 1) and his wife Marilyn own 40 acres of land in eastern Hugo adjoining Kelly Farms.

In addition to the WCD Board, Bob also served on the Hugo Planning Commission for 21 years before stepping down this summer. The Rosenquists bought their land in 1972 and got involved in farming when their children were in 4H. In addition to pasture areas, 20 acres of their land is part of the Keystone Woods, which was identified as one of the highest quality habitats in the county. Bob doesn’t identify himself as a “tree-hugger” but thinks there is a lot we could be doing better to protect our land and water resources. “Not many people in the county know about the Washington Conservation District and what we do,” he says, “but that education and engagement is so important.” Bob enjoys talking with the public at events such as the Washington County Fair and has started wearing his WCD hat around town as a way to strike up conversations with friends and neighbors.

Jim Levitt Jim Levitt (District 2) grew up in a small town in northern Michigan, where he spent a lot of time outdoors hunting and fishing. Today, he works at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in the fisheries division. Since joining the Washington Conservation District board, he has enjoyed learning more about conservation work that happens on the land to protect lakes, rivers and streams.

SEE BOARD, PAGE 12

6. Colorless liquid 7. Hostelries 8. __ fi (slang) 9. One who accompanies 10. Where rockers play 11. “__ the Man” Musial 12. Waxy cover on some birds’ beaks 13. Software that monitors for malicious activity (abbr.)

16. Becomes less intense 18. Lyric poems 22. Touchdown 23. From end to end 24. __ Claus 25. Jedi Master Kenobi 27. Fencing swords 28. Famed child psychiatrist 29. Gossip 30. S-shaped lining 31. ‘__ death do us part 33. Bar bill

35. Placed over a vowel to indicate sound 36. Steve Martin was one 37. Low paid educator (abbr.)

39. One who rampages 42. Backbones 43. “Friday Night Lights” director 44. Anno Domini 46. One-time Yankees sensation Kevin 47. Fermented grape juice 48. Peruvian province 49. Former Braves outfielder Nixon 50. Entertainment award 51. Feeling good 52. Greek god of war 53. Famed NYC museum 54. Of the ears 55. Select 56. Friend to the carrot

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COUNTRY MESSENGER

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River Grove students choose mascot COLOR COPIES available at

BY NEALY CORCORAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Sun

River Grove Raptors River Grove Elementary students have chosen raptors as the school’s mascot. During the selection process, students drew and submitted ideas for the mascot. Those were narrowed down by staff and, finally, voted on by students. The selection was announced at the school’s second PRIDE assembly on Friday, October 27. (PRIDE represents the River Grove values of perseverance, respect, integrity, discovery and excellence.)

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Playground The playground structure at River Grove Elementary was installed Friday, November 3.

The structure is located behind the Earth and Sun lodges. Capra’s Utilities prepped the site and River Grove dads Mike Capra and Ryan Kunz led the installation of the Gaga Ball pit. An area was also cleared for students to use as a sledding hill.

MACS Board members extend thanks to the community for the Pizza Night Fundraiser and all the donors and volunteers who came together for the community build.

“I moved here July 2015 when I could no longer manage on my own. My family was relieved that I was safe. CCH is a friendly, homey atmosphere and the staff is excellent.”

Ramona was involved with the formation of CCH. She said “the dream was to connect the Ramo na Paulso on, hospital, nursing home, assisted 91 Ye ars Young living and exercise facility to create a complete wellness environment”. She takes pride in her involvement to see the dream ful½lled.

Christian Community Home of Osceola

Student Advisory Council River Grove has organized the school’s first student advisory council. The committee is made up of upper grade level students (grades four, five and six) who were recommended by their teachers for demonstrating a positive attitude, work ethic and collaborative spirit. The purpose of the Student Advisory Council is to promote action and better-

2650 65th Ave., Osceola, WI 54020 • 715-294-1100 www.cchosceola.org

RIVER GROVE ELEMENTARY

Sixth grade teacher Adam Johnson and third grade teacher Michelle Cauley, who are in Halloween costumes, display a drawing of the school’s raptor mascot. Fifth grade student David Cauley drew the raptor.

ment through leadership and involvement in the community.

The students on the committee will assist other students and help them to become more involved at

Our Campus includes: 24-Hour Skilled Nursing • Assisted Living Apartments Transitional / Short-term Rehabilitation

River Grove Elementary.

River Grove Food Drive Call today to learn more or to schedule a tour!

SEE RIVER GROVE, PAGE 12

AREA CHURCHES Ascension Episcopal Church

Forest Hills United Methodist Church

Lord of the Lakes Lutheran Church (LCMS)

Osceola United Methodist Church

St. Joseph Catholic Church

214 North Third Street N, Stillwater (651) 439-2609 • www.ae-church.org Rev. Marilyn Baldwin Rev. Buff Grace, Rector Rev. Brenda Hoffman Mindy Boynton, Christian Ed/Youth Nancy Whipkey, Music Sunday: 8 a.m. Holy Eucharist, no music 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist, with music

Hwy. 97 at County Road 34 S.E. Forest Lake (651) 464-5249 Pastor: Rev. David Werner www.foresthillsumc.net 10:15 a.m. Sunday worship

25402 Itasca Avenue Forest Lake, MN 55025 651-462-3535 / lordofthelakes.org Pastor Craig Bertram Regular Worship 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Communion First and Third Sundays 9:00 a.m. Coffee Fellowship 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Adult Bible Class

306 River Street Osceola, WI (715) 755-2275 osceolaunitedmethodistchurch@gmail.com Sunday: Worship 10 a.m.

Fellowship at 11 a.m.

490 Bench St., Taylors Falls, MN (651) 465-7345 Sat. Mass 5:30 p.m.

Sun. Mass 7:30 a.m.

Maranatha Church Chisago Lakes Campus

Lake Elmo (651) 430-9950 5900 Lake Elmo Avenue N. (Hwy 36 & County Road 17) Pastor Jon Neitzel, Teen Pastor Greg Hamm Children’s Pastor Karen Hynes Sunday Worship and Childrens’ Church 9:30 a.m. Nursery available.

Saturday Worship and Children’s Church, 6:00 p.m.

Sunday Teen Service 7:00 p.m.

The Baha’i Faith For information about Baha’i Faith or times and places of meetings call (651) 433-3686.

Christ Lutheran Church 150 Fifth Street, Marine (651) 433-3222, office ext. 10 Pastors Joel Martin and Hannah Bartos Sunday Worship 8:15 a.m. and 9:45 a.m.

Kid’s Church during 9:45 service.

Wednesday Life Night schedule: Community Supper at 5:30 p.m.

Faith formation classes for all ages at 6:30 p.m.

Elim Lutheran Church Scandia (651) 433-2723 www.elimscandia.org Senior Pastor Scott Westphal Associate Pastor Meredith McGrath Sunday Worship: 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. in Elim Sanctuary Christian education for all ages: 8:45 a.m.

Faith Lutheran Church (ELCA) Forest Lake (651) 464-3323 886 North Shore Drive Pastors: Rev. Philip Peterson, Rev. Paul Brown Sunday Worship: Traditional, 7:45 & 9:00 a.m.

Praise Service: 10:30 a.m.

Grace Church 722 Seminole Ave. Osceola Pastor Mark Barlow Amy Germain, Day Care Bety Greydanus, Office Manager “The Cure for the Common Church” e-mail: info@gracechurchosceola.com www.gracechurchosceola.com or call (715) 294-4222 or (715) 755-3454 Sunday: Praise and Worship Service 9 a.m. with Children’s Church Adult Bible Study 10:45 a.m.

Children’s Sunday School 10:45 a.m.

Christian Child Day Care Monday-Friday 5:30 am – 6 p.m.

Hosanna Lutheran Church (ELCA) Living, loving and serving as Jesus did... so that all may know him.

9300 Scandia Tr. N. Forest Lake (651) 464-5502 www.hosannaforestlake.net Linda Friesen, Lead Pastor Jen Collins, Associate Pastor Sept-May Worship Schedule Sunday 9:00 & 10:30 a.m.

In Great Hall (lower level) Wednesday (thru Apr) 6:00 p.m. in Garden Chapel (upper level)

Lakes Free Church www.lakesfree.org Lindstrom (651) 257-2677 29620 Olinda Trail N. Senior Pastor Richard Stanghelle, Associate Pastor Jason Carlson Sunday Worship 9 & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9 & 10:30 a.m.

10963 Lake Blvd. (Hwy 8) Chisago City (651) 257-8605 Pastor Bill Headley Worship service Saturday, 4:30 p.m.

Sunday service 9:30 a.m.

Osceola Community Church 2492 Education Dr., Osceola, WI Larry Mederich, Pastor (715) 417-0608 • www.occconnect.org Sunday Worship 9 a.m. with provided Nursery Kids Church 9:30 a.m.

Meeting in home groups throughout the week. Call for details, 715-294-4332.

Osceola Medical Center Spiritual Care 2600 65th Avenue, Osceola, WI www.myomc.org/specialtyserv_1chapel.php 715-294-5645 fax: 715-294-5712 email: alan.hagstrom@myomc.org Chapel open daily for meditation.

River Valley Christian Church

St. Croix Falls United Methodist Church Upper St. Croix Parish 300 N. Adams St. • (715)-483-9494 Pastor Carolyn Saunders Pastor MIke Brewbaker Sunday Service 10 a.m.

St. Croix Valley Friends Meeting Stillwater (651) 439-7981 Seventh Day Adventist Church, Fifth & Laurel Streets Sunday Worship: 10:00 a.m. Childcare available.

St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Franconia (651) 465-7345 Sunday Mass: 9:30 a.m.

Father Frank Wampach Three miles north on Hwy. 95 from Hwy. 97. West on Redwing 1/4 mile.

St. Joseph Catholic Cluster Osceola (715) 294-2243 Rev. Andy Anderson Saturday Mass: St. Joseph’s, 4 p.m.

St. Anne’s, Somerset 5 p.m.

Sunday Mass: Assumption, East Farmingon 8:30 a.m.

St. Anne’s, Somerset 8 & 10 a.m.

St. Joseph’s, Osceola 10:30 a.m.

Call for weekday mass and reconciliation schedules.

Trinity Lutheran Church (WELS) Osceola (715) 294-2828 300 Seminole Avenue Sunday Worship: 9 a.m.

Sunday School/Bible Class: 10:15 a.m.

Wednesday worship: 7 p.m.

Trinity Lutheran Church Stillwater (651) 439-7400 www.trinitylc.org • 115 North Fourth Street Pastors: Dan Poffenberger & Stephanie Vos, Saturday Evening Worship: 5 p.m.

Sunday Worship: 9 a.m Traditional; 10:30 a.m. The WALK Contemporary Worship Children’s Learning, Sunday 9 a.m. and on Wednesday 6 p.m.

Wednesday 7:15 p.m. “The River” Youth Worship

10

COUNTRY MESSENGER

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 www.countrymessenger.com

AUTO BODY

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

PLUMBING

TROWBRIDGE PLUMBING 715-294-2165 Osceola, Wisconsin - Hwy. 35 south of town

Indoor air quality experts 24 Hour Service 21260 Olinda Trail N.

651-433-5167 www.scandiaheating.com

AUTOMOTIVE COMPLETE AUTO SERVICE CENTER We will not be undersold

Alignment • Brakes • Exhaust • Shocks Plows • Tune-ups/engine diagnostics Keyless Entry and Autostarts • A/C Service 14520 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-0403 • www.fredstireandservice.net

FUNERAL HOMES

SPRINGBORN

Residential - Service - Remodel trowbridge_plumbing@hotmail.com Mike Trowbridge

651-707-2528 Fax: 651-213-0070

REAL ESTATE

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Ask about our rebates and ďŹ nancing

651-439-1519 www.springbornheating@usfamily.net SINCE 1952.

Licensed. Bonded. Insured.

JOLENE KAMMERUD Outdoors Realty

Markgraf Mechanical, Inc.

2391 State Rd 35, Osceola, WI 54020 BROKER/OWNER - Serving MN & WI

Phone: 866-986-2731 Cell: 715-222-2132 2391 State Road 35, Osceola, WI jolenekammerud@yahoo.com www.outdoorsrealty.com

. 3HORE $RIVE &OREST ,AKE -.

0HONE 6IEW FAMILY TESTIMONIALS AT WWW MATTSONFUNERALHOME COM &OREST ,AKE S ONLY FUNERAL HOME OWNED ENTIRELY BY LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTORS

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning www.markgrafmechanical.com 651-433-3714 or 651-238-9480

INSURANCE

NOAH INSURANCE GROUP Osceola • 715-294-2510 • 877-571-9315 Stillwater • 888-430-6624 www.noahinsurancegroup.com

THE ORIGINAL PRETTY GOOD GROCERY Open Mon. - Sat. 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Sun. 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

LAWN & SPORT Servicing all major brands Lawn & garden, mower service.

CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS

651-433-5845 21190 Ozark Ave N • Scandia, MN STORE HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Fri. - Sat. 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. • Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

651-433-4668

21240 Olinda Trail N., Scandia, MN

MORTGAGES INC.

Teri Zoch

Professional Mortgage Services Originator NMLS# 283764 Mortgage Works, Inc NMLS# 284133

651-433-4500

Call us today for a free market analysis of your home!

651.433.3333 • www.TheBrunfelts.com

TRAILERS/REPAIR

%LOO 6FKLIVN\ &XVWRP 7UDLOHU 0IJ SINCE 1972

Aluminum Utility Trailers Mobile Displays • We build Tiny House Trailers 651-257-5340 • www.customtrailers.biz • Scandia, MN

TRAILER REPAIR Axles • Couplers • Wiring • Brakes • Aluminum & Steel Welding

STORAGE

Scandia Self Storage Heated or Cold Space Available from 5x10 to 10x40 Hwy. 97, Ozark Ave. N.

VETERINARIAN

MORTGAGE

12450 Morris Trail N, Marine-On-St. Croix

Your Local Real Estate Agents!

Scandia 651-433-4150

Open 8 am - noon

WORKS

Ross and Adam Brunfelt

"Let Me Do The Shopping For You"

Call 651-426-4455 • 433-4774

email: teri@mortgageworksmn.com

SCANDIA VET CLINIC HOURS: Monday - Friday • 8 to 5:30 Saturday • 8 to noon

651-433-3666

NOVEMBER 29, 2017

COUNTRY MESSENGER

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PHONE: 651-433-3845 | FAX: 651-433-3158 20

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Notices

Services

Services

For Sale

Thanks St. Jude for prayers answered.

Custom Furniture refinishing, stripping and repair. Do it right, reasonably. The Cellar Door, Taylors Falls, 651-465-5551.

Problems with your car insurance? Tickets? Accidents? Been canceled? Call Noah Insurance for help at 715-294-2017.

NEW BUILDING SITE For Sale - 1 and 105 acres. Country lots – Osceola Dresser area.

715-755-3377

Erickson piano service. Bryan Erickson Tuning-RegulationRepair 715-463-5958 \ 507-475-2584

RESUMES copied for free if you have been laid off and looking for work. Stop in at The Sun, 108 Cascade, Osceola.

454

FSBO St.Croix County Scenic farm w/ponds, partially wooded 80 acres w/house & buildings, 40 tillable $450,000 or house/bldgs w/10 acres $180,000 Somerset, WI 651-426-7647

23 Free Items HAVE SOMETHING TO give away? Run three weeks, nonbusiness related for FREE. Must be from the area. To place an ad call 715-294-2314.

Storage Rent Farmington Mini Storage: For all your storage needs. Now offering climate controlled units. 10x10, 10x15, 10x20, 10x25. Now accommodating 5th wheelers, boats and campers.

715-2943078 or 1-800-2828103.

Subscribe today! $26/year

352

(Washington Co.)

Home/Office Organization THE SUN HAS YOUR office supplies – File folders, labels, register and other tapes, envelopes of many sizes, copy paper by ream or sheet and much more. Let us help you today, 108 Cascade, Osceola.

715-294-2314.

$31/year (Elsewhere)

COUNTRY MESSENGER SUBSCRIPTION Name _____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Mail check with coupon to: Country Messenger • P.O. Box 96 • Scandia, MN 55073 To order by phone call 651-433-3845

COUNTRY .com

REGISTERED DENTAL ASSISTANT FULL-TIME POSITION

Full Benefits • Competitive Wages 401K Package • Health Insurance Please call Amy at

ST. CROIX FAMILY DENTISTRY

715-483-5026

Willow Ridge Healthcare

Allow us to meet your Holiday needs Cabins & Garages

Scheduled or One Time

One Call Cleans It All!

• Residential & Commercial • New Construction Clean-Up

Barb 612-425-5839

STUMP GRINDING AND REMOVING 800-282-8103 • 715-417-0303

“SERVING YOUR AREA”

• Reliable • Professional • Insured • Free Estimates

has the following openings:

CNA, RN, LPN, Dietary Aide, Housekeeping/Laundry Aide and Activity Aide SIGN ON BONUS Full, Part-Time and Casual Positions Available ALL SHIFTS Wage based on experience Please apply in person or fax resume to 715-268-6361

EMPLOYMENT

WANTED TO BUY

MISCELLANEOUS

FULL TIME TRAVELING OPPORTUNITY Includes meal allowance, paid lodging, health/dental, 401(k) & paid time off.

60-80 hours/week, $13-$15/hour starting wages. Railroad Vegetation Control. Position starts January 2018. RAW, Inc. in Cooperstown, ND. www.rawapplicators.com 888/700.0292 info@rawapplicators.com

CHRISTMAS CASH Motorcycles Wanted.

1960s-1970s models, 2 stroke & 4 stroke. No mopeds please. Call: 612/720-2142

DONATE YOUR CAR truck or boat to Heritage For The Blind. Free 3-day vacation, tax deductible, free towing, all paperwork taken care of 800/439-1735

SAVE MONEY! Call your local newspaper or MNA 800-279-2979 to find out how you can save money by placing your advertisement here!

MISCELLANEOUS A PLACE FOR MOM The nation’s largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is free/no obligation. Call 844/347-2104 STOP OVERPAYING FOR YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS! Save! Call our licensed Canadian & International pharmacy, compare prices & get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! Call 877/210-2257 Promo Code: CDC201725

DISH NETWORK 190+ channels. Free install. Free hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 mos.) Add high speed internet - $14.95 (where avail.) Call today & save 25%! 855/562-4309 GOT KNEE PAIN? Back Pain? Shoulder Pain? Get a pain-relieving brace - little or no cost to you. Medicare patients call health hotline now! 800/755-6807

12 COUNTRY MESSENGER

SHERIFF’S REPORT

NOVEMBER 29, 2017

www.countrymessenger.com

City of Marine on St. Croix

City of Scandia

NOVEMBER 17

NOVEMBER 17

At 5:30 p.m. a vehicle rollover, eastbound from Ostrum Trail at the railroad tunnel, was reported.

NOVEMBER 20 At 11:53 a.m. a medical need was reported on Nason Hill Road.

At 1 p.m. adult abuse was reported on 177th Street.

At 4:50 p.m. assistance with an animal at the entrance to Jackson Meadows was requested.

At 11:59 a.m. a fire alarm sounded at Lakamaga Program Center.

At 12:27 p.m. a liquor license was renewed on Ozark Avenue.

At 12:48 p.m. a loose horse on Mayberry and Meadowbrook was reported, but on November 18 was reported contained.

NOVEMBER 18 At 7:37 a.m. during a traffic stop on Highway 97 and Meadowbrook, the

driver also had no proof of insurance.

At 8:01 a.m. a child custody issue was reported on 240th Street.

At 9:17 a.m. an attempted scam was reported on Olinda Trail.

At 4:19 p.m. a vulnerable adult was found on Scandia Trail and Penrose.

NOVEMBER 19 At 7:48 a.m. a deer tag was requested near 19303 Parkview Avenue.

At 8:59 a.m. vandalism was reported on 205th Street.

At 1:22 p.m. trespassing

was reported on Olinda Trail.

At 3:09 p.m. a burglary was reported and a welfare check was requested on 202nd Street.

At 8:26 p.m. a burglar alarm sounded at Old Town Liquor.

At 9:35 p.m. public assistance was requested when a tire fell off a vehicle on St. Croix Trail and Oakhill Road.

At 9:56 p.m. a concern about the welfare at Olinda Trail and 195th Street, possibly 19435 Olinda, was reported.

NOVEMBER 20

NOVEMBER 17

At 10:40 a.m. suspicious activity was reported on Pomroy Avenue.

At 11:43 a.m. a search warrant was executed on Olinda Trail.

At 3:58 p.m. a loose horse on 240th and Oldfield was reported.

At 4:59 p.m. theft was reported at Bluebell Mercantile.

At 8:24 p.m. suspicious activity on November 19 was reported on Oren Avenue.

At 4:44 p.m. a loose cow on Square Lake Trail, between Highway 95 and the park entrance, was reported.

At 11:19 p.m. a driver on 170th and Olinda Trail was stopped for driving after revocation.

Town of May

NOVEMBER 20 At 6:40 a.m. a car vs. deer incident on Square Lake Trail and Moonlight Bay was reported.

At 3:19 p.m. theft was reported and assistance requested on Paris Ave.

RIVER GROVE: Food drive FROM PAGE 9

Spotlight on Area Businesses Brookside Bar & Grill

Nestled into downtown Marine, Brookside Bar & Grill has been an integral part of the community for over 80 years.

Brookside Bar & Grill satisfies a variety of meal cravings — from pizza to burgers to sandwiches, salads and more.

Food is handmade using fresh ingredients, providing the perfect rest stop when traveling by bike, boat or car.

Brookside owners, Greg Miller, Matt Miller and Jeanne MacGregor, purchased the property in 2010 and began extensive renovations on the historic building.

“We talked about it over breakfast one morning and decided to go for it,” Matt Miller said.

The site was built as a creamery in 1930 but only operated as one for about a year. The building still has a brook running through its basement, which was likely used to keep the creamery’s milk cold.

After running through the restaurant and under the street, the brook cascades into the St. Croix River.

The building was first converted to a bar and restaurant in 1939. Since acquiring new owners, the Brookside has undergone restoration in the kitchen, dining room, rest rooms, grounds, exterior and back-of-the-house.

“This [the restaurant business] was all new to us,” Matt

Bus Route Updates After receiving numerous requests for changes to the bus route schedule, MACS Board and schedulers at Minnesota Central have revised the schedule based on requested changes and the goal to maintain a reasonable ride time for students. Adjusted schedules for busses Red #3 and Yellow #4 were effective on Monday, Nov. 6. On Wednesday, Nov. 8, there was a meeting for River Grove families to offer input for Blue #1 and Green #2 bus routes. Suggestions for partnership and improvement were encouraged as River Grove continues to grow as a school community.

Upcoming events

Miller said. “It’s been really rewarding — just diving in and figuring it out.”

Today, the restaurant runs a lively and active schedule.

With almost all Saturdays and Sundays booked, Brookside hosts live music from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Whether you’re looking for a tasty meal, a few drinks or just some entertainment, stop into the Brookside Bar & Grill, located directly across the street from the historic Mill Site in Marine and open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

Heating and Air Conditioning Inc.

140 Judd St. • Marine on St. Croix

651-433-1112 HOURS

Sun - Thurs 11 am - 11 pm, Fri - Sat 11 am - 11 pm or later

Forest Lake • Assistance on Insurance Claims • Courtesy Cars/Rental Cars SERVING THE AREA SINCE 1978

“Where Quality Comes First”

12450 Morris Trail N Marine-On-St. Croix

651-433-4500

651-464-6477 Knowing which stocks to own starts with knowing your goals

The low price leader Disposable paper products & supplies

Heidi Gemuenden, AAMS® Financial Advisor

Trio Supply Company mking@triosupply.com 612.522.3822 (FX) 612.522.4403 (Cell) 715.377.8655

Monica King

41 Judd Street Marine On St. Croix, MN 651-433-1776

Certified by M.P.C.A. Member SIPC

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Advertise your business in

THE LOCAL FOCUS! 44 Years of Satisfied Customers!

21260 Olinda Trail N.

651-433-5167

www.scandiaheating.com

During November River Grove held an Autumn Food Drive. Students brought non-perishable food items to their classrooms. Proceeds will be donated to Valley Outreach in Stillwater.

• Reach Customers on a weekly basis • Full color on the highly visible back page of the Country Messenger • Includes a one week feature, highlighting the special details of your business Call 651-433-3815 or email sales1@osceolasun.com

• Friday, Dec. 1, Art with artist-in-residence Karron Nottingham • Monday, Dec. 4, Parent Engagement Group (PTO) meeting in Commons • Tuesday, Dec. 19, Winter Band and Orchestra Concert at the Marine Town Hall

BOARD: Conservation District FROM PAGE 8

“I always supported practices such as rain gardens, but it’s been interesting to learn how the WCD works with local partners to secure funding for these types of projects,” he says.

Diane Blake Diane Blake (District 5) is the newest member of the WCD Board of Supervisors, serving since January 2017. Diane grew up in a very conservation-minded family.

Her parents ran a Christmas Tree Farm and the family enjoyed camping, fishing, and spending time outdoors. Now, as the mother of two young kids, she appreciates family-friendly nature activities, such as the WCD’s family “pond-dipping” events this summer, where her children hunted for macroinvertebrates and learned about water quality in local lakes. “The Washington Conservation District is a well-run group of employees,” Diane says.

“It makes it so easy to support the work that we do.”

The Conservation District Board meets monthly on the second Wednesday of each month, at 2 p.m. This year, the Washington Conservation District celebrates its 75th Anniversary.

Angie Hong is an educator for East Metro Water - www.mnwcd.org/ emwrep - which includes Brown’s Creek, Carnelian Marine - St. Croix, Comfort Lake – Forest Lake, Middle St. Croix, Ramsey Washington-Metro, Rice Creek, South Washington and Valley Branch Watersheds, Cottage Grove, Dellwood, Forest Lake, Grant, Hugo, Lake Elmo, Newport, Oak Park Heights, Oakdale, Stillwater, St. Paul Park, West Lakeland, Willernie and Woodbury, Washington County and the Washington Conservation District. Contact her at 651-330-8220 x.35 or angie.hong@mnwcd.org.

Scandia Office • 651-433-5753

Call us for a quote!

JoAnn Buse & Jane Dreyer

COUNTRY

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