ST. PAUL, Minn.—As Memorial Day weekend approaches and summer construction roadwork around the state begins, the Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to use extra caution while driving through highway work zones.
By visiting www.511mn.org or calling 5-1-1, motorists can plan their trips with the latest statewide traffic, construction, weather and travel information.
While the department will suspend work on many projects during the long weekend, motorists may still encounter detours and traffic restrictions as well as rough road surfaces and narrowed traffic lanes.
“We will be working on more than 250 construction projects in addition to several maintenance projects around this state this year—that equates to a lot of work zones,” said Mike Barnes, MnDOT’s Operations director. “It is important that motorists drive carefully and pay attention so they don’t hurt themselves or others.”
Memorial Day weekend is traditionally one of the deadliest on Minnesota roads during the spring and summer months. Safe driving during the long weekend ranks as a paramount concern for the departments of Transportation and Public Safety and law enforcement agencies statewide.
In 2010, there were 1,915 crashes that resulted in 11 deaths in Minnesota state highway work zones alone, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
MnDOT encourages motorists to follow these recommendations while driving, and especially when encountering work zones:
•Use safety belts
•Drive sober
•Stay alert
•Watch for signs and work zone flaggers
•Minimize distractions such as using cell phones, eating or drinking
•Avoid tailgating
•Follow posted speed limits -- Fines double in work zones
•Stay in one lane while driving through a work zone
Thursday, May 26, 2011
MN Dept of Ag launches 2011 gypsy moth trapping program
St. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is setting nearly 16,000 gypsy moth traps across eastern Minnesota starting this week as part of its annual program to monitor Minnesota’s forests and urban areas for new infestations of the destructive tree pest.
While emerald ash borer – the state’s other high-profile tree pest – attacks only ash trees, gypsy moth caterpillars devour the leaves of many tree species including oak, poplar, birch and willow. Severe infestations and repeated defoliation can kill trees, especially when the trees are already stressed by drought conditions or other factors. Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options for dealing with gypsy moths – unlike emerald ash borer.
The MDA’s early warning system against the moths is a network of small, gold colored cardboard traps attached to trees or poles. The cardboard traps contain a pheromone to lure in male gypsy moths. Once inside, the moths become entangled in the sticky interior. In mid-summer and again in the fall, workers remove the traps and count the moths inside. When MDA finds a significant number of moths in an area, it moves in to conduct treatments designed to control them.
MDA’s 2009 monitoring program discovered record numbers of gypsy moths moving inland from the North Shore of Lake Superior, but very few in other parts of the state. The 2009 detections prompted MDA to develop plans for control treatments in the spring and summer of 2010 along the North Shore. The treatments decreased the state’s total 2010 gypsy moth counts to less than 10 percent of what was caught in 2009. With the 2011 treatments as a follow-up to that, the goal for this year’s trapping survey is to have equal or lesser total moth counts than the 2010 season.
MDA Plant Protection Director Geir Friisoe said monitoring is a key part of the fight against gypsy moths.
“For nearly 30 years, MDA has been eradicating small infestations and delaying a full-scale invasion of the state’s forests and urban areas,” Friisoe said. “Our efforts have pushed back the full-scale invasion of gypsy moth by years if not decades. Every year we delay the moths’ establishment is a victory for the environment and the economy.”
Citizens are asked not to disturb the traps and to call the Arrest the Pest Hotline at 888-545-MOTH if they would like traps moved or removed from their properties. For more details about the trapping program and gypsy moths, visit the MDA website at www.mda.state.mn.us/gypsymoth.
While emerald ash borer – the state’s other high-profile tree pest – attacks only ash trees, gypsy moth caterpillars devour the leaves of many tree species including oak, poplar, birch and willow. Severe infestations and repeated defoliation can kill trees, especially when the trees are already stressed by drought conditions or other factors. Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options for dealing with gypsy moths – unlike emerald ash borer.
The MDA’s early warning system against the moths is a network of small, gold colored cardboard traps attached to trees or poles. The cardboard traps contain a pheromone to lure in male gypsy moths. Once inside, the moths become entangled in the sticky interior. In mid-summer and again in the fall, workers remove the traps and count the moths inside. When MDA finds a significant number of moths in an area, it moves in to conduct treatments designed to control them.
MDA’s 2009 monitoring program discovered record numbers of gypsy moths moving inland from the North Shore of Lake Superior, but very few in other parts of the state. The 2009 detections prompted MDA to develop plans for control treatments in the spring and summer of 2010 along the North Shore. The treatments decreased the state’s total 2010 gypsy moth counts to less than 10 percent of what was caught in 2009. With the 2011 treatments as a follow-up to that, the goal for this year’s trapping survey is to have equal or lesser total moth counts than the 2010 season.
MDA Plant Protection Director Geir Friisoe said monitoring is a key part of the fight against gypsy moths.
“For nearly 30 years, MDA has been eradicating small infestations and delaying a full-scale invasion of the state’s forests and urban areas,” Friisoe said. “Our efforts have pushed back the full-scale invasion of gypsy moth by years if not decades. Every year we delay the moths’ establishment is a victory for the environment and the economy.”
Citizens are asked not to disturb the traps and to call the Arrest the Pest Hotline at 888-545-MOTH if they would like traps moved or removed from their properties. For more details about the trapping program and gypsy moths, visit the MDA website at www.mda.state.mn.us/gypsymoth.
NMF Offers “Understanding Polarity Thinking” Workshop
NMF is offering a workshop to assist in making unsolvable problems manageable. The framework being introduced is based in Polarity Thinking and will benefit organizations, groups and individuals.
Unsolvable problems represent two seemingly opposing ideas, with both being true. Some examples of polarities include: neglect of the customer / focusing on the customer; indivdual / team; centralization / decentralization.
The session will be held in Bemidji at the Sanford Events Center on Monday, June 13th from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. There is no charge for the workshop and lunch is included; space is limited and pre-registration on the NMF website (www.nwmf.org) is required.
Managers from all sectors will benefit from learning about Polarity Management concepts, which help to distinguish problems that can be solved from those issues that are actually polarities, which need to be managed.
Participants will increase their ability to manage the 5 “Cs”: complexity, change, conflict, chronic issues and cross cultural issues, through learning how to apply the concepts of polarity thinking.
Through NMF’s Nonprofit Excellence program, workshop attendees will be offered the opportunity to work with consultants to assess their organization’s polarities.
For more information, contact Jane McKelvy (218-759-2057, e-mail janem@nwmf.org).
Unsolvable problems represent two seemingly opposing ideas, with both being true. Some examples of polarities include: neglect of the customer / focusing on the customer; indivdual / team; centralization / decentralization.
The session will be held in Bemidji at the Sanford Events Center on Monday, June 13th from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. There is no charge for the workshop and lunch is included; space is limited and pre-registration on the NMF website (www.nwmf.org) is required.
Managers from all sectors will benefit from learning about Polarity Management concepts, which help to distinguish problems that can be solved from those issues that are actually polarities, which need to be managed.
Participants will increase their ability to manage the 5 “Cs”: complexity, change, conflict, chronic issues and cross cultural issues, through learning how to apply the concepts of polarity thinking.
Through NMF’s Nonprofit Excellence program, workshop attendees will be offered the opportunity to work with consultants to assess their organization’s polarities.
For more information, contact Jane McKelvy (218-759-2057, e-mail janem@nwmf.org).
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Public advised to stop using some skin-lightening products after testing reveals that they may contain mercury
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is advising state residents to stop using some types of skin-lightening products, after testing revealed that they may contain dangerous levels of mercury.
The implicated products were sold as skin-lightening agents, although they may also be used as skin-smoothing products. MDH tested 27 samples of the products, including 23 creams and four soaps. All of the samples were collected in the Twin Cities by staff from Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health.
Eleven of the skin creams contained mercury, at levels ranging from 135 to 33,000 parts per million (ppm). Under federal law, most cosmetics – including skin-lightening products – can contain no more than "trace" amounts of less than one ppm, and only if it is impossible to avoid adding it during the manufacturing process.
Although skin-lightening products may be applied to broad areas of the skin, they may also be applied in smaller amounts to specific sites or spots on the skin. Consumers are being advised to stop all use of these products if they can't be sure the products are mercury-free.
Consumers are also being urged not to dispose of skin products that may contain mercury as normal trash. Instead, they should be taken to a disposal site that accepts household hazardous waste. A statewide list of disposal sites is available on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) website.
Consumers with concerns about the use of skin-lightening products can call the Minnesota Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and it offers language interpretation services. Users of the products are also being encouraged to contact the poison center with information about where the products were purchased.
A broad variety of skin-lightening products is available for sale, and MDH officials emphasized that they were only able to test a limited number of them. It may not always be possible to tell whether a particular skin-lightening product contains mercury, so skin-lighteners should always be used with caution.
At a minimum, consumers should make sure that:
the product they are using has an ingredient list and
mercury is not listed as an ingredient.
Officials cautioned that mercury may appear on product labels under several different names. Consumers should check for anything that includes the words "calomel," "mercuric," "mercurous" or "mercurio."
Proper disposal of products that contain mercury is especially important, according to MPCA officials. Mercury is a toxic pollutant. If it is released to the land or waters of Minnesota, further human exposure may result.
MPCA is notifying retailers to stop selling skin products that may contain mercury. It is illegal in Minnesota to sell or distribute cosmetics, toiletries or fragrances containing mercury, and MPCA has begun an investigation into the sale of these products. The agency will be taking enforcement action as necessary. It is not illegal for consumers to buy or possess these products.
Retailers, distributors, and other businesses are required by law to use hazardous-waste disposal options approved by MPCA if they have stocks of these products they wish to dispose of.
The skin-lightening products tested by the MDH lab were obtained from retailers who primarily serve the African, Asian, Latino and Middle Eastern communities in the Twin Cities. However, MDH officials emphasized that use of these products is not limited to those groups. All segments of the population are potential users of the products, and all parts of the state are potentially affected, they said.
When applied to the skin, mercury from these products can readily be absorbed by the body. Other states have reported finding elevated levels of mercury in the blood and urine of people who use mercury-containing skin creams.
The primary concern with exposure to mercury in skin creams is the potential effect on the kidneys, officials said.
Exposure to high levels of mercury, or exposure over a long period of time, can raise additional concerns. Long term or high level exposure can affect the nervous system, or cause pain or rash symptoms in the hands and feet of infants and young children.
Unborn babies and young children are especially sensitive to mercury. Even when pregnant women do not show symptoms from mercury exposure, it can affect their unborn children.
Anyone who suspects they have symptoms of mercury exposure should call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222, officials said. However, the best treatment is simply to stop using the skin creams, and eliminate the source of exposure. The mercury will be eliminated naturally from the body over time.
More information about mercury and skin-lightening products is available on the MDH website.
The implicated products were sold as skin-lightening agents, although they may also be used as skin-smoothing products. MDH tested 27 samples of the products, including 23 creams and four soaps. All of the samples were collected in the Twin Cities by staff from Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health.
Eleven of the skin creams contained mercury, at levels ranging from 135 to 33,000 parts per million (ppm). Under federal law, most cosmetics – including skin-lightening products – can contain no more than "trace" amounts of less than one ppm, and only if it is impossible to avoid adding it during the manufacturing process.
Although skin-lightening products may be applied to broad areas of the skin, they may also be applied in smaller amounts to specific sites or spots on the skin. Consumers are being advised to stop all use of these products if they can't be sure the products are mercury-free.
Consumers are also being urged not to dispose of skin products that may contain mercury as normal trash. Instead, they should be taken to a disposal site that accepts household hazardous waste. A statewide list of disposal sites is available on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) website.
Consumers with concerns about the use of skin-lightening products can call the Minnesota Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and it offers language interpretation services. Users of the products are also being encouraged to contact the poison center with information about where the products were purchased.
A broad variety of skin-lightening products is available for sale, and MDH officials emphasized that they were only able to test a limited number of them. It may not always be possible to tell whether a particular skin-lightening product contains mercury, so skin-lighteners should always be used with caution.
At a minimum, consumers should make sure that:
the product they are using has an ingredient list and
mercury is not listed as an ingredient.
Officials cautioned that mercury may appear on product labels under several different names. Consumers should check for anything that includes the words "calomel," "mercuric," "mercurous" or "mercurio."
Proper disposal of products that contain mercury is especially important, according to MPCA officials. Mercury is a toxic pollutant. If it is released to the land or waters of Minnesota, further human exposure may result.
MPCA is notifying retailers to stop selling skin products that may contain mercury. It is illegal in Minnesota to sell or distribute cosmetics, toiletries or fragrances containing mercury, and MPCA has begun an investigation into the sale of these products. The agency will be taking enforcement action as necessary. It is not illegal for consumers to buy or possess these products.
Retailers, distributors, and other businesses are required by law to use hazardous-waste disposal options approved by MPCA if they have stocks of these products they wish to dispose of.
The skin-lightening products tested by the MDH lab were obtained from retailers who primarily serve the African, Asian, Latino and Middle Eastern communities in the Twin Cities. However, MDH officials emphasized that use of these products is not limited to those groups. All segments of the population are potential users of the products, and all parts of the state are potentially affected, they said.
When applied to the skin, mercury from these products can readily be absorbed by the body. Other states have reported finding elevated levels of mercury in the blood and urine of people who use mercury-containing skin creams.
The primary concern with exposure to mercury in skin creams is the potential effect on the kidneys, officials said.
Exposure to high levels of mercury, or exposure over a long period of time, can raise additional concerns. Long term or high level exposure can affect the nervous system, or cause pain or rash symptoms in the hands and feet of infants and young children.
Unborn babies and young children are especially sensitive to mercury. Even when pregnant women do not show symptoms from mercury exposure, it can affect their unborn children.
Anyone who suspects they have symptoms of mercury exposure should call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222, officials said. However, the best treatment is simply to stop using the skin creams, and eliminate the source of exposure. The mercury will be eliminated naturally from the body over time.
More information about mercury and skin-lightening products is available on the MDH website.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
DOT reminds the public about highway rights of way
BEMIDJI, Minn.— The Minnesota Department of Transportation reminds citizens that placing unauthorized signs and other objects on state highway right of way is illegal and can distract drivers and obstruct their vision.
"With summer right around the corner, we are already seeing an increase in advertising signs and items for sale placed illegally along state highways to attract the attention of passing motorists," said Steve Lund, MnDOT's state maintenance engineer. “Signs created to attract a driver’s eye can easily distract motorists from paying full attention to driving, which can lead to crashes.”
Placing signs or objects in highway right of way is a misdemeanor violation punishable by a maximum $1,000 fine and/or 90 days in jail. Highway rights of way include driving lanes, shoulders, ditches, clear zones and sight corners at intersections.
State law also says that signs and other items may not be placed on private property outside of the right of way limits but in proximity to a roadway without consent of the landowner.
MnDOT crews will remove all signs within the right of way without notice.
Unauthorized signs include, but are not limited to—real estate open houses, garage sales and signs for various public and private events and activities.
Large items commonly found in rights of way include cars and other vehicles, boats and motors, campers and travel trailers, commercial stands and large bales of hay. These objects:
•Present safety concerns
•Inhibit proper drainage
•Catch debris
•Restrict mowing, spraying and other road maintenance activities
For information about roadway regulations, right-of-way boundaries or where to find signs and items that have been removed; contact Stephen Frisco, District 2 Roadway Regulations Supervisor at 218-755-6553 or by e-mail to Stephen.Frisco@state.mn.us.
"With summer right around the corner, we are already seeing an increase in advertising signs and items for sale placed illegally along state highways to attract the attention of passing motorists," said Steve Lund, MnDOT's state maintenance engineer. “Signs created to attract a driver’s eye can easily distract motorists from paying full attention to driving, which can lead to crashes.”
Placing signs or objects in highway right of way is a misdemeanor violation punishable by a maximum $1,000 fine and/or 90 days in jail. Highway rights of way include driving lanes, shoulders, ditches, clear zones and sight corners at intersections.
State law also says that signs and other items may not be placed on private property outside of the right of way limits but in proximity to a roadway without consent of the landowner.
MnDOT crews will remove all signs within the right of way without notice.
Unauthorized signs include, but are not limited to—real estate open houses, garage sales and signs for various public and private events and activities.
Large items commonly found in rights of way include cars and other vehicles, boats and motors, campers and travel trailers, commercial stands and large bales of hay. These objects:
•Present safety concerns
•Inhibit proper drainage
•Catch debris
•Restrict mowing, spraying and other road maintenance activities
For information about roadway regulations, right-of-way boundaries or where to find signs and items that have been removed; contact Stephen Frisco, District 2 Roadway Regulations Supervisor at 218-755-6553 or by e-mail to Stephen.Frisco@state.mn.us.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Registration now open for Sixth Annual Mann Foundation Symposium
Minnesota teachers, parents and administrators can explore a variety of topics at the Sixth Annual National Ted and Dr. Roberta Mann Foundation Symposium about Children’s Mental Health and Learning Disabilities on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2011, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. N., Minneapolis. The Symposium is co-sponsored by PACER Center and the American Dairy Queen Corporation.
Participants at the Symposium will find the event beneficial and inspiring. Past attendees have made these comments about the Symposium:
• “Motivating, encouraging and enlightening. In all the symposiums, meetings and seminars I’ve been to in 14 years, this was the most useful to working every day.”
• “Wow! I’ve learned so much today! My teaching will be really changed this coming year, my 30th. This conference will help me to rethink, restructure my teaching for the upcoming year. Thank you!”
Speakers at this year’s Symposium will address many issues regarding children’s mental health and learning disabilities, including proactive, positive teaching strategies and interventions. Keynote speakers will include David S. Goldbloom, Ph.D., senior medical advisor, education and public affairs at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto; Josh Hanagarne, author of the novel “The Knot” and the blog “World’s Strongest Librarian”; and Dr. Read Sulik, M.D., a child and adolescent psychiatrist, pediatrician and adult psychiatrist.
Cost for the Symposium is $15, and lunch will be provided. Registration is now open and fills quickly. To register, call PACER at 952-838-9000. In Greater Minnesota, call 800-537-2237 (toll free) or visit PACER.org.
Participants at the Symposium will find the event beneficial and inspiring. Past attendees have made these comments about the Symposium:
• “Motivating, encouraging and enlightening. In all the symposiums, meetings and seminars I’ve been to in 14 years, this was the most useful to working every day.”
• “Wow! I’ve learned so much today! My teaching will be really changed this coming year, my 30th. This conference will help me to rethink, restructure my teaching for the upcoming year. Thank you!”
Speakers at this year’s Symposium will address many issues regarding children’s mental health and learning disabilities, including proactive, positive teaching strategies and interventions. Keynote speakers will include David S. Goldbloom, Ph.D., senior medical advisor, education and public affairs at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto; Josh Hanagarne, author of the novel “The Knot” and the blog “World’s Strongest Librarian”; and Dr. Read Sulik, M.D., a child and adolescent psychiatrist, pediatrician and adult psychiatrist.
Cost for the Symposium is $15, and lunch will be provided. Registration is now open and fills quickly. To register, call PACER at 952-838-9000. In Greater Minnesota, call 800-537-2237 (toll free) or visit PACER.org.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
2011 IDEA Winners Announced
CROOKSTON, MN – May 18, 2011 -- The IDEA Competition announced its four 2011 winners on Tuesday, May 17 in Crookston at an awards banquet held on the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus. Two of the winners – Craft Night Out and Grand Steer – are located in Thief River Falls. The other two winners – EquipAll GrappleHoe and LaValley Industries LLC – are located in Bemidji. Each winner will receive $10,000 in cash to advance their business idea, plus additional specialized technical assistance.
Craft Night Out (CNO) is owned by Kristine Goddard-Anderson and Elizabeth Petersen. Their innovative business model brings the joy of crafting to the home-party setting, turning the home-party sales model on its head. It eliminates in-home sales and instead, creates a pre-party, web-based sales model. Complete craft kits, pre-selected by each guest, will be shipped direct to the party hostess with all the supplies needed to create the projects together at the craft party. Kits can also be purchased for individual use. Craft Night Out takes the focus off the sales pitch and gives women more time for fun, creativity and connection with friends.
Grand Steer owners Fred Hartmann, Chuck Odegaard, and Al Aaseby have developed the Turn@bout, an add-on piece of equipment for pallet jacks that greatly enhances their function and maneuverability. On its own, a pallet jack can be difficult and time consuming to maneuver into position without kicking or lifting the front of the jack, but with a set of Turn@bout’s installed, the turning radius is cut in half, eliminating most handling difficulties, wasted time and safety issues.
The EquipAll GrappleHoe, owned by Jeff Sullivan and Arnold Kleinsasser, is described as very likely the most useful multi-purpose tool you can put on a skidsteer. The EquipAll GrappleHoe offers a unique combination of two of the most common attachments: the grapple for grabbing & carrying, and the backhoe for digging and trenching. This single, unique tool can be used for stump removal, septic systems, demolition, burn piles, log handling, rocks, concrete & asphalt chunks, grub rake, fence post removal, hay bales, rip-rap, water lines, foundation footings, trenching electric cables, water lines to eight feet deep, and much more.
LaValley Industries LLC, owned by Jason LaValley, Jorge Prince and Roger LaValley, has designed the PIPEMATE, which will work in conjunction with an automatic welding unit to dramatically improve both the speed and safety of the tie-in welding process for the pipeline industry. It is anticipated that the automated process of the PIPEMATE will cut the time spent on the tie-in process by 75%, while removing all field personnel from the dangerous work in the trenches. It is also expected to lower labor costs by reducing the need for at least two field workers in any tie-in process.
The IDEA Hall of Fame added two Northwest Minnesota innovators: Glen Brazier, founder of MATTRACKS, and Dennis Brazier, founder of Central Boiler, were inducted at the banquet. The IDEA Hall of Fame was established to recognize the accomplishments of the region’s legacy innovators—those within the region who have inspired others with their entrepreneurial vision, leadership and achievement.
The next IDEA competition opens in September, 2011. Northwest Minnesota innovators are encouraged to consider entering the next round of competition. For more information, visit the IDEA website: www.ideacompetition.org.
Craft Night Out (CNO) is owned by Kristine Goddard-Anderson and Elizabeth Petersen. Their innovative business model brings the joy of crafting to the home-party setting, turning the home-party sales model on its head. It eliminates in-home sales and instead, creates a pre-party, web-based sales model. Complete craft kits, pre-selected by each guest, will be shipped direct to the party hostess with all the supplies needed to create the projects together at the craft party. Kits can also be purchased for individual use. Craft Night Out takes the focus off the sales pitch and gives women more time for fun, creativity and connection with friends.
Grand Steer owners Fred Hartmann, Chuck Odegaard, and Al Aaseby have developed the Turn@bout, an add-on piece of equipment for pallet jacks that greatly enhances their function and maneuverability. On its own, a pallet jack can be difficult and time consuming to maneuver into position without kicking or lifting the front of the jack, but with a set of Turn@bout’s installed, the turning radius is cut in half, eliminating most handling difficulties, wasted time and safety issues.
The EquipAll GrappleHoe, owned by Jeff Sullivan and Arnold Kleinsasser, is described as very likely the most useful multi-purpose tool you can put on a skidsteer. The EquipAll GrappleHoe offers a unique combination of two of the most common attachments: the grapple for grabbing & carrying, and the backhoe for digging and trenching. This single, unique tool can be used for stump removal, septic systems, demolition, burn piles, log handling, rocks, concrete & asphalt chunks, grub rake, fence post removal, hay bales, rip-rap, water lines, foundation footings, trenching electric cables, water lines to eight feet deep, and much more.
LaValley Industries LLC, owned by Jason LaValley, Jorge Prince and Roger LaValley, has designed the PIPEMATE, which will work in conjunction with an automatic welding unit to dramatically improve both the speed and safety of the tie-in welding process for the pipeline industry. It is anticipated that the automated process of the PIPEMATE will cut the time spent on the tie-in process by 75%, while removing all field personnel from the dangerous work in the trenches. It is also expected to lower labor costs by reducing the need for at least two field workers in any tie-in process.
The IDEA Hall of Fame added two Northwest Minnesota innovators: Glen Brazier, founder of MATTRACKS, and Dennis Brazier, founder of Central Boiler, were inducted at the banquet. The IDEA Hall of Fame was established to recognize the accomplishments of the region’s legacy innovators—those within the region who have inspired others with their entrepreneurial vision, leadership and achievement.
The next IDEA competition opens in September, 2011. Northwest Minnesota innovators are encouraged to consider entering the next round of competition. For more information, visit the IDEA website: www.ideacompetition.org.
Highway 9 resurfacing project in Clay County begins May 31
DETROIT LAKES, Minn.— Motorists on Highway 9 and Highway 10 in Clay County will encounter delays when a resurfacing and intersection improvement project begins May 31.
Highway 9 work includes resurfacing the roadway, replacing three box culverts and constructing turn lanes between Highway 10 and the north Clay County line. Flaggers and pilot cars will guide motorists through areas where construction crews are working.
Culvert work on the south end of the project will require a detour starting June 6, routing traffic to Clay County Road 11 and Clay County Road 6 for three to four weeks.
Motorists will also encounter lane closures on Highway 10 at the Highway 9 intersection when crews install a traffic signal, pave the intersection and add a southbound free-flow right turn lane and westbound acceleration lane.
The project is scheduled to be completed in early August, weather permitting.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to always drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones. For statewide travel information, visit www.511mn.org, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.mndot.gov.
Highway 9 work includes resurfacing the roadway, replacing three box culverts and constructing turn lanes between Highway 10 and the north Clay County line. Flaggers and pilot cars will guide motorists through areas where construction crews are working.
Culvert work on the south end of the project will require a detour starting June 6, routing traffic to Clay County Road 11 and Clay County Road 6 for three to four weeks.
Motorists will also encounter lane closures on Highway 10 at the Highway 9 intersection when crews install a traffic signal, pave the intersection and add a southbound free-flow right turn lane and westbound acceleration lane.
The project is scheduled to be completed in early August, weather permitting.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to always drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones. For statewide travel information, visit www.511mn.org, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.mndot.gov.
Highway 9 resurfacing project in Clay County begins May 31
DETROIT LAKES, Minn.— Motorists on Highway 9 and Highway 10 in Clay County will encounter delays when a resurfacing and intersection improvement project begins May 31.
Highway 9 work includes resurfacing the roadway, replacing three box culverts and constructing turn lanes between Highway 10 and the north Clay County line. Flaggers and pilot cars will guide motorists through areas where construction crews are working.
Culvert work on the south end of the project will require a detour starting June 6, routing traffic to Clay County Road 11 and Clay County Road 26 for three to four weeks.
Motorists will also encounter lane closures on Highway 10 at the Highway 9 i ntersection when crews install a traffic signal, pave the intersection and add a southbound free-flow right turn lane and westbound acceleration lane.
The project is scheduled to be completed in early August, weather permitting.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to always drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones. For statewide travel information, visit www.511mn.org, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.mndot.gov.
Highway 9 work includes resurfacing the roadway, replacing three box culverts and constructing turn lanes between Highway 10 and the north Clay County line. Flaggers and pilot cars will guide motorists through areas where construction crews are working.
Culvert work on the south end of the project will require a detour starting June 6, routing traffic to Clay County Road 11 and Clay County Road 26 for three to four weeks.
Motorists will also encounter lane closures on Highway 10 at the Highway 9 i ntersection when crews install a traffic signal, pave the intersection and add a southbound free-flow right turn lane and westbound acceleration lane.
The project is scheduled to be completed in early August, weather permitting.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to always drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones. For statewide travel information, visit www.511mn.org, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.mndot.gov.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
4-H, BBQ Boot Camp Team Up at Clover Classic
Golfers in this year's North Dakota 4-H Foundation Clover Classic golf benefit also have an opportunity to learn a little bit about barbecuing and the livestock industry, and have a tasty meal.
Following the Clover Classic, a mixed, best-ball scramble set for June 15 at Prairie West Golf Club in Mandan, golfers will be able to participate in a "Mini BBQ Boot Camp." That's a 30- to 45-minute version of the full three-hour BBQ Boot Camp program.
Golfers will not only be served a meal of brisket, pulled pork, corn on the cob and other goodies but will learn about marinades, rubs, cuts of meat and other grilling secrets, as well as food safety tips, from NDSU's Animal Sciences Department and Extension Service faculty and staff.
"4-H and BBQ Boot Camp are both part of NDSU," says Mylie Lavold, 4-H Foundation development director. "It's a natural partnership."
BBQ Boot Camp organizers also hope the event helps close the knowledge gap between those involved in food production and consumers.
"The NDSU BBQ Boot Camp team works hard to inform all participants about the critical importance of understanding the vital role of agriculture and our food supply while having a lot of fun with barbecuing," says David Newman, an assistant professor in NDSU's Animal Sciences Department. "This is a natural partnership, especially considering the importance of youth education about
agriculture through 4-H."
Lavold hopes the BBQ Boot Camp program will help attract more players and sponsors to the golf tournament.
"I had such a good time golfing in the tournament last year that when asked to be the chairperson for this year's tournament, I was happy to do it," says Maureen Ming of Bismarck. "Not only do the proceeds help sponsor some great programs for 4-H youth, but the tournament is a really fun and relaxed event. The addition of the BBQ Boot Camp this year is sure to make it an even more
enjoyable event."
For more information about the Clover Classic, visit http://www.ndsu.edu/4h/foundation/ and click on The Clover Classic. To learn more about the BBQ Boot Camp program, check out http://www.ndsu.edu/bbqbootcamp.
Following the Clover Classic, a mixed, best-ball scramble set for June 15 at Prairie West Golf Club in Mandan, golfers will be able to participate in a "Mini BBQ Boot Camp." That's a 30- to 45-minute version of the full three-hour BBQ Boot Camp program.
Golfers will not only be served a meal of brisket, pulled pork, corn on the cob and other goodies but will learn about marinades, rubs, cuts of meat and other grilling secrets, as well as food safety tips, from NDSU's Animal Sciences Department and Extension Service faculty and staff.
"4-H and BBQ Boot Camp are both part of NDSU," says Mylie Lavold, 4-H Foundation development director. "It's a natural partnership."
BBQ Boot Camp organizers also hope the event helps close the knowledge gap between those involved in food production and consumers.
"The NDSU BBQ Boot Camp team works hard to inform all participants about the critical importance of understanding the vital role of agriculture and our food supply while having a lot of fun with barbecuing," says David Newman, an assistant professor in NDSU's Animal Sciences Department. "This is a natural partnership, especially considering the importance of youth education about
agriculture through 4-H."
Lavold hopes the BBQ Boot Camp program will help attract more players and sponsors to the golf tournament.
"I had such a good time golfing in the tournament last year that when asked to be the chairperson for this year's tournament, I was happy to do it," says Maureen Ming of Bismarck. "Not only do the proceeds help sponsor some great programs for 4-H youth, but the tournament is a really fun and relaxed event. The addition of the BBQ Boot Camp this year is sure to make it an even more
enjoyable event."
For more information about the Clover Classic, visit http://www.ndsu.edu/4h/foundation/ and click on The Clover Classic. To learn more about the BBQ Boot Camp program, check out http://www.ndsu.edu/bbqbootcamp.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Consumers now have 24/7 access to information about child care safety and more
Parents searching for child care for their baby, a son concerned about his mother’s adult day care program, family members evaluating services for their sibling with developmental disabilities — all of these consumers now have 24/7 access to important information about licensed programs with the expansion of information available on the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) website.
The most frequently requested public documents about DHS licensed programs are now online, giving consumers quick access to important health and safety information about child care centers, group homes for people with disabilities, and a range of other services for children and vulnerable adults. Six types of public documents — including compliance reports and public summaries of maltreatment investigations — are now available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup: http://licensinglookup.dhs.state.mn.us. Members of the public can subscribe to email alerts when new documents are posted.
Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson said the department is committed to the protection of the health and safety of people receiving care in licensed programs.
“Critical decisions, such as choosing a chemical dependency treatment program for your family member, often must be made quickly,” Jesson said. “Easy access to these documents will help drive informed decisions and enhance the safety of children and vulnerable adults.”
Programs licensed by DHS include child care, foster care, treatment and various supportive services for people with mental illness, chemical addiction, developmental disabilities, as well as for Minnesota’s aging population. The documents have always been available to the public upon request; technological improvements have made it possible to share them online. Initially the documents available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup will date back to July 1, 2010.
“DHS will continue its efforts to expand and improve the site, making licensing information more accessible to the public,” Jesson said.
DHS Licensing Information Lookup, first launched in 2006, until now has included basic information about the licensure status — active, conditional, suspended or revoked — for approximately 24,100 DHS-licensed providers, along with contact information.
Key documents about DHS-licensed programs added to online service
Parents searching for child care for their baby, a son concerned about his mother’s adult day care program, family members evaluating services for their sibling with developmental disabilities — all of these consumers now have 24/7 access to important information about licensed programs with the expansion of information available on the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) website.
The most frequently requested public documents about DHS licensed programs are now online, giving consumers quick access to important health and safety information about child care centers, group homes for people with disabilities, and a range of other services for children and vulnerable adults. Six types of public documents — including compliance reports and public summaries of maltreatment investigations — are now available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup: http://licensinglookup.dhs.state.mn.us. Members of the public can subscribe to email alerts when new documents are posted.
Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson said the department is committed to the protection of the health and safety of people receiving care in licensed programs.
“Critical decisions, such as choosing a chemical dependency treatment program for your family member, often must be made quickly,” Jesson said. “Easy access to these documents will help drive informed decisions and enhance the safety of children and vulnerable adults.”
Programs licensed by DHS include child care, foster care, treatment and various supportive services for people with mental illness, chemical addiction, developmental disabilities, as well as for Minnesota’s aging population. The documents have always been available to the public upon request; technological improvements have made it possible to share them online. Initially the documents available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup will date back to July 1, 2010.
“DHS will continue its efforts to expand and improve the site, making licensing information more accessible to the public,” Jesson said.
DHS Licensing Information Lookup, first launched in 2006, until now has included basic information about the licensure status — active, conditional, suspended or revoked — for approximately 24,100 DHS-licensed providers, along with contact information.
The most frequently requested public documents about DHS licensed programs are now online, giving consumers quick access to important health and safety information about child care centers, group homes for people with disabilities, and a range of other services for children and vulnerable adults. Six types of public documents — including compliance reports and public summaries of maltreatment investigations — are now available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup: http://licensinglookup.dhs.state.mn.us. Members of the public can subscribe to email alerts when new documents are posted.
Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson said the department is committed to the protection of the health and safety of people receiving care in licensed programs.
“Critical decisions, such as choosing a chemical dependency treatment program for your family member, often must be made quickly,” Jesson said. “Easy access to these documents will help drive informed decisions and enhance the safety of children and vulnerable adults.”
Programs licensed by DHS include child care, foster care, treatment and various supportive services for people with mental illness, chemical addiction, developmental disabilities, as well as for Minnesota’s aging population. The documents have always been available to the public upon request; technological improvements have made it possible to share them online. Initially the documents available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup will date back to July 1, 2010.
“DHS will continue its efforts to expand and improve the site, making licensing information more accessible to the public,” Jesson said.
DHS Licensing Information Lookup, first launched in 2006, until now has included basic information about the licensure status — active, conditional, suspended or revoked — for approximately 24,100 DHS-licensed providers, along with contact information.
Key documents about DHS-licensed programs added to online service
Parents searching for child care for their baby, a son concerned about his mother’s adult day care program, family members evaluating services for their sibling with developmental disabilities — all of these consumers now have 24/7 access to important information about licensed programs with the expansion of information available on the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) website.
The most frequently requested public documents about DHS licensed programs are now online, giving consumers quick access to important health and safety information about child care centers, group homes for people with disabilities, and a range of other services for children and vulnerable adults. Six types of public documents — including compliance reports and public summaries of maltreatment investigations — are now available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup: http://licensinglookup.dhs.state.mn.us. Members of the public can subscribe to email alerts when new documents are posted.
Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson said the department is committed to the protection of the health and safety of people receiving care in licensed programs.
“Critical decisions, such as choosing a chemical dependency treatment program for your family member, often must be made quickly,” Jesson said. “Easy access to these documents will help drive informed decisions and enhance the safety of children and vulnerable adults.”
Programs licensed by DHS include child care, foster care, treatment and various supportive services for people with mental illness, chemical addiction, developmental disabilities, as well as for Minnesota’s aging population. The documents have always been available to the public upon request; technological improvements have made it possible to share them online. Initially the documents available through the DHS Licensing Information Lookup will date back to July 1, 2010.
“DHS will continue its efforts to expand and improve the site, making licensing information more accessible to the public,” Jesson said.
DHS Licensing Information Lookup, first launched in 2006, until now has included basic information about the licensure status — active, conditional, suspended or revoked — for approximately 24,100 DHS-licensed providers, along with contact information.
Friday, May 13, 2011
NDSU Shepherds Clinics Set
The North Dakota State University Extension Service is hosting three free seminars on basic sheep husbandry for beginners in the sheep industry and producers who want to expand their flock.
"High sheep prices likely will attract newcomers to the sheep industry and encourage producers to expand existing sheep operations," says Reid Redden, NDSU Extension sheep specialist. "Also, the North Dakota Lamb and Wool Producers Association has a perpetual flock program that awards starter flocks to 10 youth, most of whom do not have much experience with sheep."
The Shepherds Clinics are set for June 16 in Fargo, Aug. 3 in Minot and Oct. 1 in Hettinger. All three programs will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Topics to be covered are breeding/reproduction/gestation, lambing barn management, ewe nutrition, lamb nutrition, genetics, wool production and harvesting, common health issues and marketing. The program also includes a sheep tour.
Registration is required one week prior to the seminar. Lunch will be available for purchase at each session.
For more information or to register, contact Redden at (701) 231-5597 or reid.redden@ndsu.edu for the Fargo seminar; Oliver County Extension agent Rick Schmidt at (701) 794-8748 or rick.schmidt@ndsu.edu for the Minot seminar; or Adams County Extension agent Julie Kramlich at (701) 567-2735 or julie.kramlich@ndsu.edu for the Hettinger seminar.
"High sheep prices likely will attract newcomers to the sheep industry and encourage producers to expand existing sheep operations," says Reid Redden, NDSU Extension sheep specialist. "Also, the North Dakota Lamb and Wool Producers Association has a perpetual flock program that awards starter flocks to 10 youth, most of whom do not have much experience with sheep."
The Shepherds Clinics are set for June 16 in Fargo, Aug. 3 in Minot and Oct. 1 in Hettinger. All three programs will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Topics to be covered are breeding/reproduction/gestation, lambing barn management, ewe nutrition, lamb nutrition, genetics, wool production and harvesting, common health issues and marketing. The program also includes a sheep tour.
Registration is required one week prior to the seminar. Lunch will be available for purchase at each session.
For more information or to register, contact Redden at (701) 231-5597 or reid.redden@ndsu.edu for the Fargo seminar; Oliver County Extension agent Rick Schmidt at (701) 794-8748 or rick.schmidt@ndsu.edu for the Minot seminar; or Adams County Extension agent Julie Kramlich at (701) 567-2735 or julie.kramlich@ndsu.edu for the Hettinger seminar.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
SADD selects Perham student for National Leadership Council
Marlborough, MA – SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), the national school-based, peer-to-peer prevention education organization, today announced that Paige Meyer of Perham, Minnesota, has been named to the SADD National Student Leadership Council for the 2011-2012 school year. Chosen from a nationwide pool of highly qualified applicants, she joins 10 other Council members who will represent the hundreds of thousands of SADD students in chapters across the country.
“Paige’s leadership and her work and dedication to issues affecting teens make her a great choice to join SADD National’s Student Leadership Council,” said Penny Wells, president and executive director of SADD. “We will now rely on Paige to use her experiences on the state and local levels to help guide our organ ization as we work nationally to develop programs that will positively influence teens when it comes to choices about alcohol and drug use, as well as other potentially destructive behaviors.”
The Student Leadership Council advises the SADD National Board of Directors on policies and programs, plans and implements the annual SADD National Conference, and serves as a national and regional student representation network. Members of the Student Leadership Council represent SADD at local, regional, and national events and engagements.
Meyer, a senior at Perham School in Minnesota, has been a dedicated SADD student for four years. She currently serves as Vice President of the Chapter and is a member of the Northern Lights (tri-state) SADD Advisory Board. She has participated in the Pack-It-Up Anti-Tobacco Road Trip, Teen Driving Summit, and has presented workshops at Northern Lights SADD conferences. Paige has been a student at the Academy of Classical Ballet for nine years, is a concert choir soloist, and has earned lead role positions in multiple musicals.
“Being selected for the SADD National Student Leadership Council is a great honor, one that is well deserved and brings great pride to our state and local organizations that have worked so hard to educate teens about responsible decision-making,” said Lee Erickson, Northern Lights SADD State Coordinator. “Paige has been an exceptional SADD leader in Minnesota, working tirelessly to ensure that teens are aware of the perils of risky driving, underage drinking and other drug use. We are confident she will thrive as an educator and an important advocate for teens nationwide.”
“Paige’s leadership and her work and dedication to issues affecting teens make her a great choice to join SADD National’s Student Leadership Council,” said Penny Wells, president and executive director of SADD. “We will now rely on Paige to use her experiences on the state and local levels to help guide our organ ization as we work nationally to develop programs that will positively influence teens when it comes to choices about alcohol and drug use, as well as other potentially destructive behaviors.”
The Student Leadership Council advises the SADD National Board of Directors on policies and programs, plans and implements the annual SADD National Conference, and serves as a national and regional student representation network. Members of the Student Leadership Council represent SADD at local, regional, and national events and engagements.
Meyer, a senior at Perham School in Minnesota, has been a dedicated SADD student for four years. She currently serves as Vice President of the Chapter and is a member of the Northern Lights (tri-state) SADD Advisory Board. She has participated in the Pack-It-Up Anti-Tobacco Road Trip, Teen Driving Summit, and has presented workshops at Northern Lights SADD conferences. Paige has been a student at the Academy of Classical Ballet for nine years, is a concert choir soloist, and has earned lead role positions in multiple musicals.
“Being selected for the SADD National Student Leadership Council is a great honor, one that is well deserved and brings great pride to our state and local organizations that have worked so hard to educate teens about responsible decision-making,” said Lee Erickson, Northern Lights SADD State Coordinator. “Paige has been an exceptional SADD leader in Minnesota, working tirelessly to ensure that teens are aware of the perils of risky driving, underage drinking and other drug use. We are confident she will thrive as an educator and an important advocate for teens nationwide.”
NDSU Crop Management Field School Scheduled for June 23 in Carrington
The North Dakota State University Extension Service's annual crop management field school will be offered Thursday, June 23, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Carrington Research Extension Center.
The school will provide hands-on training on crop pest management using field research and demonstration plots. The school is for crop advisers, but the program also will be beneficial for farmers.
Specific field sessions include:
* Weed identification - identify more than 60 living weed exhibits and review biology and control
* Herbicide mode of action - identify herbicide classes by examining crop and weed injury symptoms
* Wheat disease management - review disease forecasting and fungicide use strategies
* Insect management - review current insect concerns
* Sprayer options for reducing pesticide drift
Instructors for the field school are Greg Endres, NDSU Extension area agronomist; Kirk Howatt and Rod Lym, NDSU weed scientists; Jan Knodel, NDSU Extension entomologist; Marcia McMullen, NDSU Extension plant pathologist; and John Nowatzki, NDSU Extension agricultural machine systems specialist.
A total of 50 participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will receive reference materials, refreshments and a noon meal. Certified crop advisers participating in the event will receive 6 pest management continuing education units.
For further details and preregistration information, go to http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/CarringtonREC/events or contact the Carrington center at (701) 652-2951. A completed preregistration form and $75 fee is required by June 20 ($100 after June 20).
The school will provide hands-on training on crop pest management using field research and demonstration plots. The school is for crop advisers, but the program also will be beneficial for farmers.
Specific field sessions include:
* Weed identification - identify more than 60 living weed exhibits and review biology and control
* Herbicide mode of action - identify herbicide classes by examining crop and weed injury symptoms
* Wheat disease management - review disease forecasting and fungicide use strategies
* Insect management - review current insect concerns
* Sprayer options for reducing pesticide drift
Instructors for the field school are Greg Endres, NDSU Extension area agronomist; Kirk Howatt and Rod Lym, NDSU weed scientists; Jan Knodel, NDSU Extension entomologist; Marcia McMullen, NDSU Extension plant pathologist; and John Nowatzki, NDSU Extension agricultural machine systems specialist.
A total of 50 participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will receive reference materials, refreshments and a noon meal. Certified crop advisers participating in the event will receive 6 pest management continuing education units.
For further details and preregistration information, go to http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/CarringtonREC/events or contact the Carrington center at (701) 652-2951. A completed preregistration form and $75 fee is required by June 20 ($100 after June 20).
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Safety while working in highway rights of way
DETROIT LAKES, Minn.— The Minnesota Department of Transportation reminds farmers that planting crops within rights of way is illegal because as crops grow higher and fuller they can block motorists’ vision and create other safety problems.
State law also prohibits plowing and tilling in rights of way including driving lanes, shoulders, ditches and sight corners at intersections.
“Our roadway regulation inspectors are knowledgeable and willing to help landowners adopt practices that enhance safety and the environment,” said Steve Lund, Mn/DOT’s state maintenance engineer. “The goal of these restrictions is to ensure safety and to protect roadside environments.”
The department also advises that mowing and haying on rights of way may require a permit.
“Roadside conditions and right-of-way status varies,” Lund said. “This requires us to consider farmers’ mowing and haying rights on a case-by-case basis.”
A deposit on a permit may be required and will be returned when all work has been completed in accordance with the provisions of the permit.
Permits for locations where mowing is allowed are distributed on a first-come, first served basis.
For further information regarding roadway regulations, or assistance in identifying right-of-way boundaries on a state or interstate highway in west central Minnesota, contact Jim Utecht, 218-846-7950, or by email, james.utecht@state.mn.us')">james.utecht@state.mn.us.
State law also prohibits plowing and tilling in rights of way including driving lanes, shoulders, ditches and sight corners at intersections.
“Our roadway regulation inspectors are knowledgeable and willing to help landowners adopt practices that enhance safety and the environment,” said Steve Lund, Mn/DOT’s state maintenance engineer. “The goal of these restrictions is to ensure safety and to protect roadside environments.”
The department also advises that mowing and haying on rights of way may require a permit.
“Roadside conditions and right-of-way status varies,” Lund said. “This requires us to consider farmers’ mowing and haying rights on a case-by-case basis.”
A deposit on a permit may be required and will be returned when all work has been completed in accordance with the provisions of the permit.
Permits for locations where mowing is allowed are distributed on a first-come, first served basis.
For further information regarding roadway regulations, or assistance in identifying right-of-way boundaries on a state or interstate highway in west central Minnesota, contact Jim Utecht, 218-846-7950, or by email, james.utecht@state.mn.us')">james.utecht@state.mn.us.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Mn/DOT seeks input to 50-year transportation system vision
BEMIDJI, Minn. — Northwestern Minnesotans will help determine the state’s transportation system vision for the next 50 years when the Minnesota Department of Transportation hosts a workshop on May 18 at Bemidji State University, Crying Wolf Room from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
This workshop is part of a series of eight workshops scattered across Minnesota. An online participation option is available May 23 for those unable to attend their local workshop. Details at www.minnesotago.org.
“Our current financial challenges and aging infrastructure make establishing a vision even more important,” said Tom Sorel, Mn/DOT commissioner. “The Minnesota GO workshops are Minnesotans’ opportunity to communicate their expectations for transportation today and for the next generation.”
The process will help the agency ensure future transportation planning efforts better align with Minnesotans’ expectations.
Participants from all backgrounds will think broadly while sharing ideas and thoughts during a series of small group discussions about the future of transportation. No advanced reservation is necessary and organizers ask participants to stay for the entire workshop.
A 31-member steering committee will review feedback from the workshops, online discussions and related research. This will serve as the foundation for the recommended 50-year transportation vision statement and set of objectives. A public hearing on the proposed vision will follow in July.
Mn/DOT and other transportation organizations will then use the vision and information to develop and update short-term and long-term multi-modal transportation plans.
Minnesotans interested in getting involved can check out www.minnesotago.org.
To request translation services or other accommodations, contact Janet Miller at janet.rae.miller@state.mn.us, 651-366-4720 (Twin Cities metro area) or 1-800-657-3774 (greater Minnesota) at least three business days in advance.
These workshops are not the correct venue to advocate for a specific construction project.
This workshop is part of a series of eight workshops scattered across Minnesota. An online participation option is available May 23 for those unable to attend their local workshop. Details at www.minnesotago.org.
“Our current financial challenges and aging infrastructure make establishing a vision even more important,” said Tom Sorel, Mn/DOT commissioner. “The Minnesota GO workshops are Minnesotans’ opportunity to communicate their expectations for transportation today and for the next generation.”
The process will help the agency ensure future transportation planning efforts better align with Minnesotans’ expectations.
Participants from all backgrounds will think broadly while sharing ideas and thoughts during a series of small group discussions about the future of transportation. No advanced reservation is necessary and organizers ask participants to stay for the entire workshop.
A 31-member steering committee will review feedback from the workshops, online discussions and related research. This will serve as the foundation for the recommended 50-year transportation vision statement and set of objectives. A public hearing on the proposed vision will follow in July.
Mn/DOT and other transportation organizations will then use the vision and information to develop and update short-term and long-term multi-modal transportation plans.
Minnesotans interested in getting involved can check out www.minnesotago.org.
To request translation services or other accommodations, contact Janet Miller at janet.rae.miller@state.mn.us, 651-366-4720 (Twin Cities metro area) or 1-800-657-3774 (greater Minnesota) at least three business days in advance.
These workshops are not the correct venue to advocate for a specific construction project.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Empowering Communication II Workshop
The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is offering part two of the workshop entitled Empowering Communication, designed for people to continue the learned from the first session. It will be held on Thursday, May 26th at the Sanford Event Center in Bemidji from 9:00 am until 3:30 pm.
This workshop offers more tools for communication and resolving differences at a personal and professional level. Participate in activities that help you to learn and practice:
• How to better differentiate observation from evaluation
• Identifying underlying feelings and needs to better understand the behavior of self and others
• Expressing feelings in a way that does not imply judgment, criticism or blame/punishment
• Making requests that clearly and specifically state what you want in a way that is truly a request and not a demand
• How to more comfortably take responsibility for our actions and the choices we make
• How to contribute to relationships based in cooperation and collaboration
Lunch and materials will be provided. The registration fee is $25 and is available online at www.nwmf.org or contact Barb (barbl@nwmf.org, 218-759-2057).
Presenters
Sue Liedl: has worked exclusively teaching conflict resolution skills for nearly twenty years. In 1997 she was a recipient of the McKnight Foundation Award in Human Service for her innovative work in designing such programs for elementary students and in 1997 received an Individual Excellence in an Organization Award from NMF. She has initiated Cooperative Life Skills programs in the Bemidji schools and was a primary creator of the successful STAR (Students Teaching Attitudes of Respect) program.
Brooke Wichmann: has a Masters in Peace Education from the United Nations University for Peace. She is currently working as a Cooperative Life Skills teacher at two Bemidji area schools. Her passion is helping individuals develop skills to peacefully resolve conflicts, create positive change, and improve their overall quality of life.
Ellen Boyd: Ellen Boyd is a project manager, coach and consultant with NorthWay Group. She works with people and organizations as they prepare to embrace positive change. She believes effective communications begin with the skill of deep listening.
This workshop offers more tools for communication and resolving differences at a personal and professional level. Participate in activities that help you to learn and practice:
• How to better differentiate observation from evaluation
• Identifying underlying feelings and needs to better understand the behavior of self and others
• Expressing feelings in a way that does not imply judgment, criticism or blame/punishment
• Making requests that clearly and specifically state what you want in a way that is truly a request and not a demand
• How to more comfortably take responsibility for our actions and the choices we make
• How to contribute to relationships based in cooperation and collaboration
Lunch and materials will be provided. The registration fee is $25 and is available online at www.nwmf.org or contact Barb (barbl@nwmf.org, 218-759-2057).
Presenters
Sue Liedl: has worked exclusively teaching conflict resolution skills for nearly twenty years. In 1997 she was a recipient of the McKnight Foundation Award in Human Service for her innovative work in designing such programs for elementary students and in 1997 received an Individual Excellence in an Organization Award from NMF. She has initiated Cooperative Life Skills programs in the Bemidji schools and was a primary creator of the successful STAR (Students Teaching Attitudes of Respect) program.
Brooke Wichmann: has a Masters in Peace Education from the United Nations University for Peace. She is currently working as a Cooperative Life Skills teacher at two Bemidji area schools. Her passion is helping individuals develop skills to peacefully resolve conflicts, create positive change, and improve their overall quality of life.
Ellen Boyd: Ellen Boyd is a project manager, coach and consultant with NorthWay Group. She works with people and organizations as they prepare to embrace positive change. She believes effective communications begin with the skill of deep listening.
Legacy Amendment Arts Grants Available
Arts organizations, schools, and community groups are all encouraged to apply for arts grants. June 1 is the postmark deadline for our Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund grant program that will award over $50,000 in Legacy Amendment funds! The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council in Warren is accepting applications for a variety of grants in literary, performing, and visual arts. The Arts Council serves the Minnesota counties of Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau. Therefore organizations, schools, cities or individuals applying must be from those counties.
The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund grant category is mainly geared towards funding non-profit arts organizations; but other agencies and schools, and perhaps even artists within our region, can also apply. New outcome measurement tools for evaluation are part of this application process. Each applicant may apply for a maximum of $10,000.00 with a 10% cash match requirement. One-on-one assistance is available with the application form. Examples of projects already funded include a music recording studio at the Fosston Community Arts Center, a series of residency artists for Camp Art in Hallock, and a variety of artists for a Cinco de Mayo Hispanic celebration in Crookston. Public art projects and proposals that bring about lifelong learning and access to the arts are encouraged. More examples of highlighted projects are on our web site at www.nwrdc.org/arts.htm in the grants awarded section. The next deadlines are June 1, 2011 and August 1, 2011.
Mara Wittman will be holding a grant informational workshop at 4:00 pm in East Grand Forks at the library on Wednesday, May 11, 2011. There will also be a second public hearing on the Arts Council biennial plan at that same time and location, for those that were not able to attend the public meeting on May 5, 2011 at 4:00 pm in Warren at the NWRDC office. A second grant informational session will be on May 23, 2011 in Warren at 1:00 pm. Please RSVP if you will be attending this workshop and public hearing to (218) 745-9111 or mara@nwrdc.org.
Application materials for all the grant programs are available from Mara Wittman, Arts Council Director, NWRDC, 115 South Main, Warren, MN 56762, (218) 745-9111 or through the agency website at www.nwrdc.org/arts.htm in the grants section.
Do you sing? Paint? Write? Dance? Act? Sculpt? Weave? Draw? Compose? Play an instrument? Your art matters! Be proud, be counted today during the Arts Census now through May 31, 2011 at www.mnartscount.com. This activity is funded, in part, by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund grant category is mainly geared towards funding non-profit arts organizations; but other agencies and schools, and perhaps even artists within our region, can also apply. New outcome measurement tools for evaluation are part of this application process. Each applicant may apply for a maximum of $10,000.00 with a 10% cash match requirement. One-on-one assistance is available with the application form. Examples of projects already funded include a music recording studio at the Fosston Community Arts Center, a series of residency artists for Camp Art in Hallock, and a variety of artists for a Cinco de Mayo Hispanic celebration in Crookston. Public art projects and proposals that bring about lifelong learning and access to the arts are encouraged. More examples of highlighted projects are on our web site at www.nwrdc.org/arts.htm in the grants awarded section. The next deadlines are June 1, 2011 and August 1, 2011.
Mara Wittman will be holding a grant informational workshop at 4:00 pm in East Grand Forks at the library on Wednesday, May 11, 2011. There will also be a second public hearing on the Arts Council biennial plan at that same time and location, for those that were not able to attend the public meeting on May 5, 2011 at 4:00 pm in Warren at the NWRDC office. A second grant informational session will be on May 23, 2011 in Warren at 1:00 pm. Please RSVP if you will be attending this workshop and public hearing to (218) 745-9111 or mara@nwrdc.org.
Application materials for all the grant programs are available from Mara Wittman, Arts Council Director, NWRDC, 115 South Main, Warren, MN 56762, (218) 745-9111 or through the agency website at www.nwrdc.org/arts.htm in the grants section.
Do you sing? Paint? Write? Dance? Act? Sculpt? Weave? Draw? Compose? Play an instrument? Your art matters! Be proud, be counted today during the Arts Census now through May 31, 2011 at www.mnartscount.com. This activity is funded, in part, by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Food Support program expands access to nutritious food at farmers markets
This summer, dozens of additional farmers markets across Minnesota are expected to accept federally funded Food Support benefits, expanding access to nutritious food for low-income people. The change is part of a collaborative effort involving the Minnesota Department of Human Services and community partners.
In addition to helping recipients, use of Food Support benefits at farmers markets also helps Minnesota family farmers and communities by supporting the local economy.
A sampling of communities with participating farmers markets include: Albert Lea, Alexandria, Austin, Bagley, Bemidji, Bloomington, Mankato, Morrison County, Northeast Minneapolis, Richfield, Rochester, Staples and Duluth. Many of these open on May 7. For a listing of farmers markets accepting Food Support, check out the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Farmers Market Directory. There are more than 140 farmers markets in Minnesota.
“Food Support enables low-income Minnesotans to meet their nutritional needs,” said Minnesota Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson. “Accessing benefits at farmers markets makes it easier for people to purchase fresh, locally grown produce. We are excited about the rapid increase in the number of farmers markets accepting payment via Food Support benefits.”
Some farmers markets are further enhancing the impact of shopping at farmers markets by increasing the purchasing power of Food Support benefits redeemed there. Matching incentives, such as those offered at the Rochester Downtown Farmers Market and Midtown Farmers Market in Minneapolis, have greatly increased the redemption rate of Food Support benefits.
Private foundations and public funds help pay for matching programs, such as Market Bucks, for every dollar a Food Support recipient spends at participating farmers markets. This allows Food Support recipients to purchase additional healthy food.
For more information about Food Support, contact your county social service agency or call the Minnesota Food Helpline, 888-711-1151.
In addition to helping recipients, use of Food Support benefits at farmers markets also helps Minnesota family farmers and communities by supporting the local economy.
A sampling of communities with participating farmers markets include: Albert Lea, Alexandria, Austin, Bagley, Bemidji, Bloomington, Mankato, Morrison County, Northeast Minneapolis, Richfield, Rochester, Staples and Duluth. Many of these open on May 7. For a listing of farmers markets accepting Food Support, check out the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Farmers Market Directory. There are more than 140 farmers markets in Minnesota.
“Food Support enables low-income Minnesotans to meet their nutritional needs,” said Minnesota Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson. “Accessing benefits at farmers markets makes it easier for people to purchase fresh, locally grown produce. We are excited about the rapid increase in the number of farmers markets accepting payment via Food Support benefits.”
Some farmers markets are further enhancing the impact of shopping at farmers markets by increasing the purchasing power of Food Support benefits redeemed there. Matching incentives, such as those offered at the Rochester Downtown Farmers Market and Midtown Farmers Market in Minneapolis, have greatly increased the redemption rate of Food Support benefits.
Private foundations and public funds help pay for matching programs, such as Market Bucks, for every dollar a Food Support recipient spends at participating farmers markets. This allows Food Support recipients to purchase additional healthy food.
For more information about Food Support, contact your county social service agency or call the Minnesota Food Helpline, 888-711-1151.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Mn/DOT puts call out for Adopt a Highway volunteers
ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation is looking for volunteers for its Adopt a Highway program, a public service campaign where community groups, churches, businesses and individuals pick up litter along Minnesota highways.
“Several groups are already out making a personal contribution to a cleaner environment, but there are many more miles of highway waiting to be adopted,” said Ernest Lloyd, Statewide Adopt a Highway coordinator.
In the 21 years since its introduction, the program has saved the state of Minnesota millions of dollars. Adopt a Highway volunteers pick up 26,000 tons of litter per year along Minnesota highways, which saves Mn/DOT an estimated $5 million annually, according to Lloyd.
“The Adopt a Highway program is a perfect example of public/private partnership at its best,” Lloyd said. “Thanks to the dedication of our Adopt a Highway volunteers and their organizations, Mn/DOT is able to use the resources, that would have otherwise been used to pick up litter, for highway improvement and safety projects.”
There are more than 12,000 miles of state highway in Minnesota of which 9,800 miles are adopted. Currently, there are an estimated 4,500 statewide groups and 45,000 volunteers registered.
Those interested in adopting a highway can visit: www.dot.state.mn.us/adopt/contact.html to find out who to contact in their area.
By joining the Adopt a Highway program, groups agree to:
·Adopt a highway for a minimum of two years. < /o:p>
·Select a segment of highway approximately two miles in length.
·Pick up litter on both sides of a highway.
·Pick up litter as often as needed spring through fall—usually two to three times a year. The spring pickup should be done in April or May before the first grass mowing.
·Notify Mn/DOT after every pickup.
In return, Mn/DOT will:
·Help your group select a highway to adopt—roads that have heavy traffic or are inaccessible to pedestrians are not eligible.
·Provide retroreflectiv e safety vests, trash bags and safety information—a safety training video is available from your Adopt a Highway coordinator or at www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFxiDZ6O0hA.
·Remove filled bags and large, heavy or hazardous items from roadsides.
·Erect a sign along your group’s section of highway to recognize your commitment to a cleaner environment.
To find out how to get involved in Mn/DOT’s Adopt a Highway program, visit www.dot.state.mn.us/adopt or call Ernest Lloyd at 651-366-3564.
“Several groups are already out making a personal contribution to a cleaner environment, but there are many more miles of highway waiting to be adopted,” said Ernest Lloyd, Statewide Adopt a Highway coordinator.
In the 21 years since its introduction, the program has saved the state of Minnesota millions of dollars. Adopt a Highway volunteers pick up 26,000 tons of litter per year along Minnesota highways, which saves Mn/DOT an estimated $5 million annually, according to Lloyd.
“The Adopt a Highway program is a perfect example of public/private partnership at its best,” Lloyd said. “Thanks to the dedication of our Adopt a Highway volunteers and their organizations, Mn/DOT is able to use the resources, that would have otherwise been used to pick up litter, for highway improvement and safety projects.”
There are more than 12,000 miles of state highway in Minnesota of which 9,800 miles are adopted. Currently, there are an estimated 4,500 statewide groups and 45,000 volunteers registered.
Those interested in adopting a highway can visit: www.dot.state.mn.us/adopt/contact.html to find out who to contact in their area.
By joining the Adopt a Highway program, groups agree to:
·Adopt a highway for a minimum of two years. < /o:p>
·Select a segment of highway approximately two miles in length.
·Pick up litter on both sides of a highway.
·Pick up litter as often as needed spring through fall—usually two to three times a year. The spring pickup should be done in April or May before the first grass mowing.
·Notify Mn/DOT after every pickup.
In return, Mn/DOT will:
·Help your group select a highway to adopt—roads that have heavy traffic or are inaccessible to pedestrians are not eligible.
·Provide retroreflectiv e safety vests, trash bags and safety information—a safety training video is available from your Adopt a Highway coordinator or at www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFxiDZ6O0hA.
·Remove filled bags and large, heavy or hazardous items from roadsides.
·Erect a sign along your group’s section of highway to recognize your commitment to a cleaner environment.
To find out how to get involved in Mn/DOT’s Adopt a Highway program, visit www.dot.state.mn.us/adopt or call Ernest Lloyd at 651-366-3564.
State's largest walleye lakes test 'clean' for PFCs in fish
Fish taken in 2010 from nine of Minnesota's 10 largest walleye lakes had levels of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) that were either very low or undetectable, suggesting those lakes have very little or no contamination from perfluorochemicals (PFCs). That is one of the early findings from new data for fish contamination recently received by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA).
The results of the PFC testing mean that advice on how much fish can be eaten safely from those walleye lakes will not be impacted by perfluorochemicals. That's good news for Minnesotans who like to catch and eat fish from those waters, said Pat McCann, MDH fish advisory program manager.
"Minnesotans can continue to enjoy the benefits that come from eating fish from some of their favorite lakes without concern for PFCs," McCann said. "People should continue to follow the existing consumption advice for those lakes, which is based on mercury."
The walleye lakes tested were Kabetogama, Rainy, Vermilion, Mille Lacs, Lake of the Woods, Leech, Winnibigoshish, Cass and Upper Red Lake. The 10th largest walleye lake is Lake Pepin, part of the Mississippi River, which had been previously tested and had levels of PFCs that led to recommendations to limit consumption for some species. Perfluorochemicals are a family of man-made chemicals that have been used for decades to make products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and water.
Minnesota's 10 largest walleye lakes are the most important fishing waters in the state, according to the DNR. They account for about 40 percent of the statewide walleye harvest and are usually among the most popular lakes with sport anglers.
After PFCs were discovered in fish from Lake Calhoun in the metro area in 2007, state officials began to look for PFCs in fish from other waters of the state. PFOS is the perfluorochemical that accumulates most in fish.
Under the 2010 round of testing, state scientists retested some of the waters, or connected waters, that had higher levels of PFCs in fish from previous testing. The levels found were similar to previous measurements. New waters tested for PFCs included several rivers in Greater Minnesota and some additional metro area lakes. Results from the testing indicate no need for advice to limit consumption in any new areas based on PFCs. Those waters may have existing advice to limit consumption based on mercury or PCBs.
The 2010 collections of PFC data will be included, along with new data on mercury and PCBs from 2009 and 2010 collections, when MDH updates its fish consumption guidelines in June. The DNR collects fish for testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. MDH then analyzes the test data and establishes the consumption advisories. The guidelines provide consumers and anglers with information to help them make choices about the fish they eat.
"Most people can benefit from including more fish in their diet," said McCann. "Fish are a great source of low fat protein. Eating fish contributes to brain and eye development in the growing fetus. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish may promote heart health for adults. We strongly encourage Minnesota residents to follow the advice in the guidelines and eat fish that are low in contaminants."
For more background on perfluorochemicals in Minnesota, go to http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/hazardous/topics/pfcshealth.html.
The updated advice will include data on mercury in fish from over 250 lakes and about 50 rivers. About 50 of these waters have never been tested and will bring the total number of waters tested in the state to nearly 1,300. Funding from the Legacy Amendment and its precursor over the last five years has allowed an increase in the number of waters with fish tested for mercury.
MDH will announce when the site-specific advice is updated through its Twitter and Facebook accounts and its fish advisory email notification list. To subscribe, go to: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/fish/index.html and click on the envelope icon in the right sidebar. The statewide advice remains the same. Statewide safe eating guidelines are available online at http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/fish/eating/safeeating.html.
The fish consumption advice can also be accessed through a new Department of Natural Resources application for Android smartphones at www.dnr.state.mn.us/mobile/index.html.
The results of the PFC testing mean that advice on how much fish can be eaten safely from those walleye lakes will not be impacted by perfluorochemicals. That's good news for Minnesotans who like to catch and eat fish from those waters, said Pat McCann, MDH fish advisory program manager.
"Minnesotans can continue to enjoy the benefits that come from eating fish from some of their favorite lakes without concern for PFCs," McCann said. "People should continue to follow the existing consumption advice for those lakes, which is based on mercury."
The walleye lakes tested were Kabetogama, Rainy, Vermilion, Mille Lacs, Lake of the Woods, Leech, Winnibigoshish, Cass and Upper Red Lake. The 10th largest walleye lake is Lake Pepin, part of the Mississippi River, which had been previously tested and had levels of PFCs that led to recommendations to limit consumption for some species. Perfluorochemicals are a family of man-made chemicals that have been used for decades to make products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and water.
Minnesota's 10 largest walleye lakes are the most important fishing waters in the state, according to the DNR. They account for about 40 percent of the statewide walleye harvest and are usually among the most popular lakes with sport anglers.
After PFCs were discovered in fish from Lake Calhoun in the metro area in 2007, state officials began to look for PFCs in fish from other waters of the state. PFOS is the perfluorochemical that accumulates most in fish.
Under the 2010 round of testing, state scientists retested some of the waters, or connected waters, that had higher levels of PFCs in fish from previous testing. The levels found were similar to previous measurements. New waters tested for PFCs included several rivers in Greater Minnesota and some additional metro area lakes. Results from the testing indicate no need for advice to limit consumption in any new areas based on PFCs. Those waters may have existing advice to limit consumption based on mercury or PCBs.
The 2010 collections of PFC data will be included, along with new data on mercury and PCBs from 2009 and 2010 collections, when MDH updates its fish consumption guidelines in June. The DNR collects fish for testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. MDH then analyzes the test data and establishes the consumption advisories. The guidelines provide consumers and anglers with information to help them make choices about the fish they eat.
"Most people can benefit from including more fish in their diet," said McCann. "Fish are a great source of low fat protein. Eating fish contributes to brain and eye development in the growing fetus. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish may promote heart health for adults. We strongly encourage Minnesota residents to follow the advice in the guidelines and eat fish that are low in contaminants."
For more background on perfluorochemicals in Minnesota, go to http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/hazardous/topics/pfcshealth.html.
The updated advice will include data on mercury in fish from over 250 lakes and about 50 rivers. About 50 of these waters have never been tested and will bring the total number of waters tested in the state to nearly 1,300. Funding from the Legacy Amendment and its precursor over the last five years has allowed an increase in the number of waters with fish tested for mercury.
MDH will announce when the site-specific advice is updated through its Twitter and Facebook accounts and its fish advisory email notification list. To subscribe, go to: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/fish/index.html and click on the envelope icon in the right sidebar. The statewide advice remains the same. Statewide safe eating guidelines are available online at http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/fish/eating/safeeating.html.
The fish consumption advice can also be accessed through a new Department of Natural Resources application for Android smartphones at www.dnr.state.mn.us/mobile/index.html.
UMC graduation on Saturday
CROOKSTON, Minn. – Commencement exercises for the Class of 2011 at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will take place on Saturday, May 7, 2011. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. in Lysaker Gymnasium when more than 190 students, including more than 10 international students and some 20 online students, will participate in the largest commencement exercises in campus history. A reception in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center, will precede the commencement ceremony from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to attend both events; no tickets are required.
There will also be a reception from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in honor of Kari Torkelson, O.D., ex. ’91, who will be receiving the U of M Alumni Service Award. This reception, taking place in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center, will include the signing of a proclamation declaring Saturday, May 7 as Dr. Kari Torkelson Day in Crookston. She will be recognized with the award during commencement exercises that afternoon.
At 2 p.m., the formal procession of faculty, candidates for degrees, and platform guests will begin from the Sargeant Student Center to the gymnasium led by Mace Bearer William Peterson, professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department. The procession also includes Faculty Marshal W. Daniel Svedarsky, Ph.D., professor and director of the Center for Sustainability on the Crookston Campus.
Bringing greetings from the University of Minnesota Board of Regents is the Honorable Clyde Allen, who will also assist with the conferring of the degrees. The commencement address will be given by University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks, 15th president of the University of Minnesota who will be stepping down from the role at the end of June 2011. He has served the university for more than 40 years, formerly as a professor, dean, and executive vice president and provost. Susan Hagstrum, Ph.D., wife of President Bruininks will join Senior Vice President for System Academic Administration Robert Jones as special guests at the ceremony.
University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumni Association (UMCAA) Board President Juanita Lopez, will bring greetings from the UMCAA and welcome the new graduates to the alumni association.
Senior Shawn Friedland, Crookston Student Association (CSA) president, will speak on behalf of the Class of 2011 and pass the torch of education, a Crookston campus tradition, to Junior Alisha Aasness, the incoming CSA president. Aasness, from Fergus Falls, Minn., is a double major in horticulture and business management. Friedland, from New Bern, N.C., is graduating with a degree in biology.
The U of M, Crookston choir, under the direction of George French, and the string ensemble, A Touch of Brass will perform as part of the graduation ceremony. The choir will sing two selections: “Wings!” by Carl Strommen and "I Leave With A Song” by Cristi Cary Miller.
The 2011 commencement exercises mark the 103rd graduating class to be recognized on the Crookston campus. A live audio stream of the commencement exercises will be available at www.umcrookston.edu/people/services/MediaServ/Stream.htm.
For more information, visit the commencement Web site at www.umcrookston.edu/commencement.
There will also be a reception from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in honor of Kari Torkelson, O.D., ex. ’91, who will be receiving the U of M Alumni Service Award. This reception, taking place in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center, will include the signing of a proclamation declaring Saturday, May 7 as Dr. Kari Torkelson Day in Crookston. She will be recognized with the award during commencement exercises that afternoon.
At 2 p.m., the formal procession of faculty, candidates for degrees, and platform guests will begin from the Sargeant Student Center to the gymnasium led by Mace Bearer William Peterson, professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department. The procession also includes Faculty Marshal W. Daniel Svedarsky, Ph.D., professor and director of the Center for Sustainability on the Crookston Campus.
Bringing greetings from the University of Minnesota Board of Regents is the Honorable Clyde Allen, who will also assist with the conferring of the degrees. The commencement address will be given by University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks, 15th president of the University of Minnesota who will be stepping down from the role at the end of June 2011. He has served the university for more than 40 years, formerly as a professor, dean, and executive vice president and provost. Susan Hagstrum, Ph.D., wife of President Bruininks will join Senior Vice President for System Academic Administration Robert Jones as special guests at the ceremony.
University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumni Association (UMCAA) Board President Juanita Lopez, will bring greetings from the UMCAA and welcome the new graduates to the alumni association.
Senior Shawn Friedland, Crookston Student Association (CSA) president, will speak on behalf of the Class of 2011 and pass the torch of education, a Crookston campus tradition, to Junior Alisha Aasness, the incoming CSA president. Aasness, from Fergus Falls, Minn., is a double major in horticulture and business management. Friedland, from New Bern, N.C., is graduating with a degree in biology.
The U of M, Crookston choir, under the direction of George French, and the string ensemble, A Touch of Brass will perform as part of the graduation ceremony. The choir will sing two selections: “Wings!” by Carl Strommen and "I Leave With A Song” by Cristi Cary Miller.
The 2011 commencement exercises mark the 103rd graduating class to be recognized on the Crookston campus. A live audio stream of the commencement exercises will be available at www.umcrookston.edu/people/services/MediaServ/Stream.htm.
For more information, visit the commencement Web site at www.umcrookston.edu/commencement.
Free Admission to mothers on Mother's Day at Hjemkomst Center
Moorhead, Minn., – The Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County at the Hjemkomst Center museum will be giving free admission to mothers on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8. Regular admission rates are adults ($7), seniors and college students ($6), youth, 5 – 17 ($5) and children, 4 and under (free). Museum hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday, noon – 5 p.m.
We have a wide-range of exhibits currently on display: Norwegian Footprints, photographs by Norwegian photographer Jan Johannessen and text by Norwegian journalist Espen Hansen, displays large color images of contemporary Norwegian-Americans and vivid scenery around western North Dakota and reminds us of the men and women who came from Norway to help build our country. The exhibit is on display through June 27, 2011.
The BIG Art Show presented by the Fargo Moorhead Visual Artists, on display through June 8, 2011, is a wide variety of art from regional artists.
Coming to Clay County: 150 Years of Immigration, Georgetown: Transportation Crossroads, and My Journey, My Story, our three in-house exhibits, are on display in Heritage Hall through winter 2011
We have a wide-range of exhibits currently on display: Norwegian Footprints, photographs by Norwegian photographer Jan Johannessen and text by Norwegian journalist Espen Hansen, displays large color images of contemporary Norwegian-Americans and vivid scenery around western North Dakota and reminds us of the men and women who came from Norway to help build our country. The exhibit is on display through June 27, 2011.
The BIG Art Show presented by the Fargo Moorhead Visual Artists, on display through June 8, 2011, is a wide variety of art from regional artists.
Coming to Clay County: 150 Years of Immigration, Georgetown: Transportation Crossroads, and My Journey, My Story, our three in-house exhibits, are on display in Heritage Hall through winter 2011
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