Tesha M. Christensen: February 2018

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Make their summer unforgettable with camp experiences - MESSENGER VERSION

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
Give your kids childhood experiences they’ll never forget. This summer, take part in a free Forest School, unplug, step back and let their imaginations take the lead. Participate in an outdoor adventure camp and spark a love for biking, climbing, and canoeing that will give them skills to battle stress as they age. Let them soar through the air while learning circus arts, or focus on their artistic side. Give them cardboard to build with, balls to kick around, and Legoes to construct robots with. Let them pretend to live 100 years ago. Go for the gold in Animal Olympics at the zoo.
That’s just the start of the youth camp options available in the Twin Cities area. Browse below for more information on some of the camps offered locally.

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LITTLE FOLK SUMMER CAMP
Ages 4-8 can participate in a nourishing, creative and relaxing “backyard” summer experience. The morning starts with free play/maker time with loose parts, a mud and wood chip kitchen, supervised use of basic tools, costumes and art projects. Take picnic lunches to nearby Bracket Park or trails along the Mississippi, where there is after-lunch reading time on blankets and in hammocks. Afternoons are spent at Brackett Park, playing ball, climbing trees, or playing at the playground or wading pool. Four weekly sessions offered.
Cost: $180/week
https://spark.adobe.com/page/uQchgLbM6xBeL/
MINNEHAHA ACADEMY
A variety of athletic, academic and enrichment programs are offered, including woodcarving, viola and cello, combat robots, puddlestompers, fencing, movie making, sewing, painting, rocket science, drumming, and more. Half- and full-day, one- to three-week weekday sessions. Camp Minnehaha, a full day camp for pre-k to grade 8, includes daily devotions, games, indoor and outdoor activities, daily swimming lessons and a weekly off-campus activity.
Cost: $40-500
612-728-7745, ext. 1
http://www.minnehahaacademy.net
SOUTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS SOCCER
Southeast Soccer fields a variety of girls and boys teams for ages U9-U18 at beginner, intermediate and advanced competitive levels. Consider the Lil’ Dribblers soccer program for ages 4 -8, or summer traveling teams.
http://www.sesoccer.org
612-396-9511
YMCA
Explore the variety of Y Summer Programs at over 60 metro-area locations. Programs include flexible three-, four-, and five-day options. There’s something fun for everyone from preschool through grade nine.
Cost: $80-350
http://www.ymcatwincities.org/child_care__preschool/summer_programs

IN THE TWIN CITIES

ANIMAL HUMANE SOCIETY
Unleashed summer campers entering grades 3-10 spend a full week immersed in animal learning and fun. NEW this year: Campers will spend their time exclusively in the shelters.
Cost: $120-300
http://www.animalhumanesociety.org/camps
763-489-2220
ALEXANDER RAMSEY HOUSE
Solve mysteries of the past in this three-day History Detective Camp for ages 10-13. Or, young ladies ages 9-12 can step back in time to a unique Finishing School for Young Ladies day camp.
Cost: $220
612-341-7555
http://www.mnhs.org/summercamps
BLACKHAWKS OF ST. PAUL
Blackhawks offer several exciting half- and full-day soccer camps for players ages 5-18 that encompass a wide variety of activities and skills. Specialty camps focus on specific skills such as ball control, shooting, and goalkeeping.
Cost: $85-195
651-894-3527
http://blackhawksoccer.org
CAMP COMO
Spend some time “Monkeying Around” with your primate pals, go for the gold in “Animal Olympics,” take an “African Adventure” without leaving Como, or try on the hat of a zookeeper or gardener in “Behind-the-Scenes!”. Como’s camps focus on developing children’s appreciation for the natural world through play and exploration, behind-the-scenes experiences, interactions with zookeepers and gardeners, and up-close encounters with plant and animal ambassadors Five-day, half-day or full-day sessions for preschool to grade eight. Extended care is available.
Cost: $135-155
651-487-8272
http://www.tinyurl.com/p3u4lqv
CAMP SUNRISE
Camp and canoe while learning leadership and teamwork skills in a seven-day resident camp for youths age 13-18 who live within the city limits of Minneapolis or St. Paul. Held on the St. Croix River in Rush City and organized by YouthCARE.
Cost: free
612-338-1233
http://www.youthcaremn.org
CONCORDIA LANGUAGE VILLAGES
Experience cultural and language immersion; 15 languages to choose from. Resident camp for ages 6-18 and family camps.
Cost: $960-$4,510
800-222-4750
http://www.concordialanguagevillages.org

CREATE SOMETHING GREAT AT FRIENDS SCHOOL
Want to make a film just like the professionals do? Feel like biking 10 (or 20!) miles a day? Have a secret stash of poems you want to share? Feel a need to express yourself through paint and paper-folding? Maybe you’d rather argue for the defense in a real courtroom? Friends School will be the place to do that—and more—from June to August for ages 4-14. Weekdays, half- and full-day. Extended daycare in the mornings and afternoons and need-based financial aid available.
Cost: $105 to $295
651-621-8941
http://www.fsmn.org
DODGE NATURE CENTER
Explore prairies, wetlands and woodland trails during full- and half-day, four-day camps offered for students entering 1-8 grades. Shorter sessions are available for ages 3-6.
Cost: $55-325
651-455-4531
www.dodgenaturecenter.org
ENGINEERING FOR KIDS
Day camps exploring science, technology, and engineering are offered in partnership with local community education programs. Sessions, length, and price are varied per location and type of camp for ages 4-14.
engineeringforkids.com
FARM TO TABLE
Make butter, ice cream, and bread while learning about science, agriculture, and history at the Bruentrup Heritage Farm in Maplewood. Plus, students will play old-time games like townball and do arts and crafts. Three four-day sessions offered in July and August.
Cost: $150
651-748-8645
http://www.maplewoodhistoricalsociety.org/pdfs/2017-Summer-Camp.pdf
FIDDLE PAL CAMP
Fiddle Pal Camp Minnesota is four days to discover, learn and play for children, adults, and families at three locations.
Cost: $395-495
http://americanfiddlemethod.com/fiddle-pal-camps/minnesota
FOCCI MN CENTER FOR GLASS
From fusing to casting to glass blowing, ages 9-18 are introduced to the mesmerizing medium of glass through immersive half-day, five-day experiences.
Cost: $325-425
612-623-3624
http://tinyurl.com/foci2016
GERMAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE CAMPS
Speak, hear, sing, and create in German while exploring subjects ranging from history and art to science and music during five-day, half-, full- and extended-day sessions for grades K-3 at the Germanic American Institute.
Cost: $130-150
651-222-2979
http://gai-mn.org
GIBBS MUSEUM OF PIONEER AND DAKOTA LIFE CAMPS
Travel back in time and learn about life in the 1800s. Explore seasonal Dakota activities including the maple sugar camp, wild rice village, life in the tipi, hunting games, methods of travel, language, and song. Or enroll in Gibbs Girl or Digging history sessions. Three-day, half-day camps. One-day Pioneer PeeWees camps offered for ages 4-5.
Cost: $19-99
651-646-8629
http://www.rchs.com
HAMLINE YOUNG WRITERS
High school students ages 15-18 can explore the craft, prepare for college, and connect with other young writers in the Twin Cities, while working closely with Hamline Creative Writing faculty and published authors.
Cost: $400
651-523-2476
http://www.hamline.edu/gls/youngwriters
HEARTFELT
Summer camps allow time for more in-depth projects, such as Wild & Wooly, Fairies, Gnomes, Knights, Critters, and Classic Crafts, for kindergarten and up.
Cost: $120-$165
http://heartfeltonline.com/summer-camps
IRISH DANCE
Professional Irish Dance training by director Cormac O’Se, an original member of Riverdance.
612-722-7000
www.osheairishdance.com
JUGHEADS JUGGLING CAMP
Half-day, five-day sessions and single day sessions for beginners through experts ages 8-18 enhance hand-eye coordination, boost concentration and build self-confidence.
Cost: $30-110
612-229-3348
http://jugheads.com
KID YOGA
Yoga infused throughout the day via story, dance, and games for campers age 5-12. Located on the Greenway = daily field adventures.
Cost: $75-355
612-202-5164
kidyogamn.com
INNER CITY TENNIS
Enjoy Summer Tennis in Minneapolis parks for ages 6-17.
Cost: $85-405
612-825-6844
http://www.innercitytennis.org
LEONARDO’S BASEMENT
Girls and boys ages 6 to 17 can design and build their creative ideas, mixing art, science, and technology during partial-day, weekday camps. There are more than 120 classes available over ten weeks of full and half-day Monday-Friday workshops begin June 11, including:
Engineering, art, design, craft and technology workshops available all summer; Friday-only workshops and Extended Day in mornings and afternoons; Theme weeks: Toys & Games + Sci-Fi & Fantasy, including a Giant Mouse Trap Maze and Enormous Viking Ship!; Marvelous teen workshops: metalworking, art, CAD, puzzle room build, video game design, stilting, woodworking and community design project!
Cost: $185-370, scholarships available
612-824-4394
www.leonardosbasement.org
LOFT LITERARY CENTER
There’s something for everyone—from the youngster just learning to put pen to paper to the seasoned high school senior with a novel already under her belt. Sessions run in week-long blocks July and August, full and half-day options available for ages 6-17.
Cost: $262-525
612-215-2575
https://www.loft.org/classes/about_youth_classes_6-17
LOPPET ADVENTURE CAMPS
Roller ski, mountain bike, canoe and more during adventure camps for ages 9-13 at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis. Equipment provided during the full-day, five-day sessions.
Cost: $200
612-604-5330
http://loppet.org
MINNESOTA WALDORF SCHOOL
Join the Minnesota Waldorf School for good, old-fashioned summer fun June 12 to Aug. 18. Outdoor games, natural crafts, water play, gardening, fairy camp, and much more, all on their beautiful 8-acre campus. 70 East County Road B, St. Paul. For children ages 3.5 to (rising) 6th grade.
Cost: $150- $275
651-487-6700 x202
mnwaldorf.org/summercamp
MILL CITY MUSEUM
Play music, get creative, bake bread and construct books while exploring the rich culture along the Minneapolis riverfront district. Campers aged 9-11 will explore a new experience each day at four arts centers.
Cost: $225-$250
612-341-7555
www.mnhs.org/summercamps
NORTHERN CLAY CENTER
Work with sculpture, tiles, or wheel-thrown pottery in half or full-day sessions for ages 6 and up.
Cost: $165-315
612-339-8007
www.northernclaycenter.org
RAPTOR CENTER
Summer sessions for ages 6-15 are run by the University of Minnesota’s Rec & Wellness Camps, from June 11 to Aug. 10.
Cost: $299
www.raptor.umn.edu
SNAPOLOGY
Snapology camps provide a perfect mixture of STEAM learning and fun. With camps happening at the new Discovery Center in Uptown every week of the summer, as well as at various schools and educational partners around the Twin Cities, Snapology has got you covered for kids as young as 3 and as old as 14—Robotics, Coding, Science, Technology, Drones, Pre-K, Engineering, Architecture and more.
Cost: $150
https://www.snapology.com/locations/minneapolis
SPIRIT TAE KWON DO
Fun, exciting camps that combine physical fitness and education are offered throughout the summer for school-age kids. Register early for discounts.
651-428-6172
www.istkd.com
ST. PAUL ACADEMY
Make your own games and design circuits. Paint with pizzazz. Search out connections between visual art and creative writing, and explore the life of a story in journalism. Debate, play chess, learn about mathematical modeling and forecasting, make movies or delve into creative science options. Options at SPA cover a wide range of academic, arts, and enrichment activities for grades 2-12.
Cost: $195-385
651-698-2451
http://www.spa.edu
ST. PAUL BALLET
Summer is a great time to try dance. Programs include workshops and camps for ages 3 and up, weekly drop-in classes for teens and adults, and a new “mommy and me” baby class.
Cost: $8.50-$20/hr
651-690-1588
www.spballet.org
ST. PAUL URBAN TENNIS
Located at 30+ sites, with several locations in the Midway-Como neighborhoods, St. Paul Urban Tennis offers a summer program for all age groups and skill levels. Tennis lessons combine high-quality instruction with life skills learning. Sampler Camps offer a condensed, 4-day version of the lesson program. Scholarships are available.
612-222-2879
http://stpaulurbantennis.org/2011-summer-program.php
STEPPING STONE THEATER
Learn about devised theater, music, and other performance art forms during these one- to two-week, half- and full-day sessions for preK to grade 12. Two theater classes offered in collaboration with the Science Museum and Minnesota Zoo.
Cost: $75-425
http://steppingstonetheatre.org
TEXTILE CENTER CAMPS
Sew, knit, felt, dye and more. Take home completed fiber items from three- and five-day, half-, full- and extended-day sessions for ages 6-16.
Cost: $87-370
612-436-0464
http://textilecentermn.org
TRAPEZE CENTER CIRCUS CAMP
Students ages 8-17 enrolled in the weeklong, half-day camps will experience a variety of circus disciplines (including Trampoline, Static Trapeze, Acrobatics, Circus Bike, and of course Flying Trapeze).
Cost: $275
651-262-9477
twincitiestrapeze.com
WHITE BEAR CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Painting, drawing, clay, theatre, writing, glass and much more for ages 6-14.
Cost: $23-$97
651-407-0597
http://www.WhiteBearArts.org
EDITOR’S NOTE: This is not a comprehensive list of every camp in the Twin Cities. If you would like to be included in next year’s guide, please send us detailed information on the camp.

Thursday, February 15, 2018

Cambridge SE Industrial Park welcomes Ritz Machine

by Tesha M. Christensen

The building at 315 Garfield St. S. in Cambridge’s southeast industrial park is vacant no longer.

It is now the home of the Canadian-based Ritz Machine Works, a tube bending and manufacturing services company headquartered in Dauphin, Manitoba. The Garfield St. building had been empty since the closing of MAPE USA in 2016.

Ritz Machine was established in 1998 by Rick llnisky and Tom Zaporzan, and works with companies to engineer and manufacture key bent tube components for their finished products.

“If it involves bent tubes, we’ve been involved in it,” explained Adam Teeter, director of U.S. expansion for Ritz Machine Works.

Products include bus frames, air intakes, pollution converter devices, engine compartments, exhaust assemblies, furnituring fixturing, and more. The all-metal tubes are made primarily from carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

In addition to supplying items in Canada and the United States, Ritz ships abroad and has existing customers in Easter Europe and Australia.

“We’re the guys that bend the tricky stuff,” said Teeter. “We’re the solutions people.”

Ritz prides itself on solving the problems that the standard out-of-the-box solutions don’t cover.

EXPANDING INTO THE UNITED STATES

Ritz Machine had planned an expansion in the United States for several years, explained Teeter. “There’s a lot of opportunity on that side of the border,” he remarked.

With the push from some of their customers in the United States to comply with new Build America provisions on federal contracts, Ritz decided now was the time.

“It was the tipping point,” observed Teeter, who has been with the company for 10 years.

Six months ago, Ritz began working with a consultant to pinpoint a good location for their new plant. The initial border-to-border search was eventually narrowed down to the corridor between Minneapolis and Fargo.

While there are benefits and challenges to each region in the United States, Ritz staff decided it made the most sense for them to locate the new plant along their existing supply route and Canadian headquarters, explained Teeter.

“Within that area we found our opportunity,” he said.

WHY CAMBRIDGE?

Two companies that Ritz Machine currently sells items to are New Fire Industries in St. Cloud and Motor Coach Industries in Pembina, N.D. (along the Minnesota/North Dakota/Manitoba border). Ritz hopes to expand its current customer base in the United States, and will then expand its Cambridge plant, as well.

While Ritz had been looking for a 10,000- to 15,000-square-foot building, the Garfield Street South building is 26,000 square feet -- which gives them plenty of space to expand.

Ritz worked with a brokerage company and owners of the Garfield St. building on a short-term lease so they can begin operations, and work on buying the building later. The company has invested $1.5 million between the real estate, equipment and working capital. The city of Cambridge provided Ritz a $50,000 loan for seven years at a 3 percent interest rate.

Teeter’s first contact in Cambridge was with Economic Development Director Stan Gustafson. Teeter had heard that Nelson Global Products (formerly Cambridge Metals and Plastics) was closing its Cambridge manufacturing facility at the end of 2017 due to a restructuring by the company, and he saw a potential to hire specialized workers experienced in tube bending.

“Tube bending is referred to as a bit of a black art,” said Teeter. “It’s not a standard manufacturing process, and takes skill to do it well.”

While some workers at Nelson Global Products relocated, others decided not to move. Ritz hired seven of those local employees to begin running their United States operation in Cambridge.

“This was certainly a needle in a haystack find for us,” remarked Teeter. “We found a highly skilled group of employees in their hometown at the right time in their lives when they were looking for something new, as well.”

Ritz received many applications, and hopes to hire another seven people when phase two is implemented in the next one to two years, according to Teeter.

The second week of March was a big week for the company as equipment began arriving at the new Cambridge location. “It’s exciting to hit the ground and get busy,” said Teeter.

Because Ritz is mirroring the process from its Manitoba headquarters at the Cambridge plant, it will be able to get up and running quickly. Ritz expects to begin shipping deliveries from Cambridge on June 1.

“We’re eager to start in a community that, from an economic development standpoint, has opened their doors and been eager to help,” said Teeter.

Printed in the 2018 Isanti County Community Guide.

Tusen Tack Thrift Store: everybody’s store

by Tesha M. Christensen

Tusen Tack thrift store (208 Central Dr.) in Braham is everybody’s store.

The store will celebrate its 30th anniversary this fall.

Since opening in 1989, the shop has donated all of its profits back into the community. Run entirely by volunteers, the thrift shop runs a lean operation. Plus, the number of shoppers are increasing each year. And that means the money being funneled back into the community is growing each year.

Tusen Tack store manager Jane Moyer has been a part of the shop since the beginning, when Lucy Nelson and Mary Nordin decided their town needed a thrift shop. The thrift store was born about the same time as Pie Day.

The thrift store opened in Kelly’s barbershop when he retired. “In three months, we ran out of room,” recalled Moyer.

So, in October 1989, they moved three doors down into the former Wendall Carlson’s Fairway grocery store at Main and Second. Board members went to the bank to ask for a loan, but were denied because they didn’t have a man on the board, explained Moyer. After recruiting local businessman Jay Mankie, they returned and received the loan.

Tusen Tack remained in the former grocery store until 2005, when the building was condemned. The underground tank at a nearby gas station had leaked into the limestone underground. The toxic fumes that were a result were making thrift shop volunteers sick.

So the thrift shop moved for the third time, purchasing the Black Dog Archery and Shooting Range location. They intend to remain at that location, observed Moyer, who said that there is a good flow in the building. Extra stuff is stored in a shed built in back.

MEET TWO VOLUNTEERS

Running an all-volunteer organization requires dedication and time.

“It takes a lot of hard work,” pointed out Moyer.

Fifty-three volunteers help staff Tusen Tack, working one of the two 4-hour shifts offered each day.

“It’s a big family,” said Moyer. “Everyone really enjoys working as a volunteer at Tusen Tack.”

And that includes Moyer. At 89 years old, Moyer has no interest in sitting in her rocking chair. Her mind is good and she feels great. “You work with the public and you keep alert,” she said. “I’ve been active all my life.”

Dorothy Johnson started volunteering at Tusen Tack in the summer of 1997 when she retired from the state of Minnesota. She’s enjoyed the ride. “It’s been an interesting, long road, but it has been really wonderful,” said Johnson.

BEST THRIFT SHOP BETWEEN MINNEAPOLIS AND CANADA

Tusen Tack makes a point of selling nice, gently used items, and stocks clothing, toys, furniture and more.

Prices are set to be affordable, according to Johnson. “Shoppers like the cleanliness of our organization, the friendliness of volunteers, and the quality of what we sell.”

Johnson added, “They say it is the best thrift shop between Minneapolis and the Canadian border.”

Shoppers range from children to seniors, and includes families trying to make ends meet.

For those who need a little extra help, Tusen Tack offers it. Bring in information from Family Services to receive assistance.

Tusen Tack Thrift Shop is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pull around to the side of the building with donations, and volunteers will help you unload.

Tusen Tack’s business has grown tremendously over the past few years. Johnson credits it to their lower prices. Moyer believes its because shoppers know the community benefits from all profits.

“It has grown from then to now. It just floors me,” stated Moyer.

Profits from Tusen Tack go to the local police and fire departments, schools, needy people, hospice and more. Plus, Tusen Tack offers a scholarship for students who have worked at the shop.

COMMUNITY CENTER RUN BY VOLUNTEERS

Through an Initiative Foundation sponsored event, community members responded to a survey about what their community was lacking. Top on the list was a community center and grocery store. Tusen Tack agreed to take on the challenge of constructing a 40,000-square-foot community center and running it. With the help of many donors, $100,000 from Tusen Tack, and a $650,000 grant from DEED, the Braham Community Center at 655 8th St. SW was built in 2013. After operating for five years, the DEED grant will be forgiven. Tusen Tack helps subsidize payments when the center doesn’t earn enough on its own through rentals. Visit brahamcenter.org for additional information.

Kathy’s Kitchen, another volunteer group, provides food for events at the center.

The only paid staff at Tusen Tack is a part-time office worker and custodians employed by Industries Incorporated, a nonprofit that supports people with disabilities and other challenges.

Tusen Tack is planning a big celebration in June 2018 to recognize volunteers and donors.

The work of operating Tusen Tack, the event center, and other entities is divided up and assigned to a number of committees.

“It’s a fabulous story,” pointed out Johnson. “Most towns have tried and can’t get this done. It takes a lot of persistence and dedication by a lot of people to get this done.”

A food shelf run by Tusen Tack is open every Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. It is staffed by three volunteers. Another two to three people come from local churches that share duties in a rotation.

Tusen Tack also operates a library housed at the events center. The Alice Studt Library has computers available for public use with Wi-Fi connection and printing services. Visitors can also bring their own laptops to use. A wide selection of books, movies, DVDs and children’s materials is also available from the East Central Minnesota Regional Library Link.

Books clubs, pancake breakfasts, and bingo are among the community events

held at the center.

“We’re there for the community,” stated Johnson.

Printed in the 2018 Isanti County Community Guide.

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Make their summer unforgettable with camp experiences - MONITOR VERSION

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
Give your kids childhood experiences they’ll never forget. This summer, take part in a free Forest School—unplug, step back and let their imaginations take the lead. Participate in an outdoor adventure camp and spark a love for biking, climbing, and canoeing that will give them skills to battle stress as they age. Let them soar through the air while learning circus arts, or focus on their artistic side. Give them cardboard to build with, balls to kick around, and Legos to construct robots. Let them pretend to live 100 years ago. Go for the gold in Animal Olympics at the zoo.
That’s just the start of the youth camp options available in the Twin Cities area. Browse below for more information on some of the camps offered locally.

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

AUTISM SOCIETY OF MINNESOTA
Experience outdoor activities including swimming in an outdoor pool, horseback riding, use of a ropes course and climbing tower, group games, hiking, sensory crafts, and gross motor activities led by a registered occupational therapist, music groups led by a board-certified music therapist, boating, and sports during a Wahode Day Camp in Eagan where campers arrive each morning and leave each afternoon. Two residential camps where campers stay several days and nights are also offered in northern Minnesota at several locations. AuSM camps are tailored for youth and adults with autism. AuSM camps are available for individuals ages 6 and up who are AuSM members. (Photo right provided)
Cost: $725-$1,870
ausm.org/camp/ausm-summer-camps.html
651-647-1083
BLACKHAWKS OF ST. PAUL
Blackhawks offer several exciting half- and full-day soccer camps for players ages 5-18 that encompass a wide variety of activities and skills. Specialty camps focus on specific skills such as ball control, shooting, and goalkeeping.
Cost: $85-195
651-894-3527
http://blackhawksoccer.org
CAMP COMO
Spend some time “Monkeying Around” with your primate pals, go for the gold in “Animal Olympics,” take an “African Adventure” without leaving Como, or try on the hat of a zookeeper or gardener in “Behind-the-Scenes!”. Como’s camps focus on developing children’s appreciation for the natural world through play and exploration, behind-the-scenes experiences, interactions with zookeepers and gardeners, and up-close encounters with plant and animal ambassadors Five-day, half-day or full-day sessions for preschool to grade eight. Extended care is available.
Cost: $135-155
651-487-8272
http://www.tinyurl.com/p3u4lqv
FOREST SCHOOL
Free Forest School of the Twin Cities is a free group, open to young children and their parents or caregivers. This is a welcoming and non-judgmental group where parents and caregivers can practice giving children space and autonomy to explore and create in nature. Free Forest School meets every day of the week throughout the year at wilderness areas around the metro. Share a snack, take a hike, play in the woods, and have circle time. Parents get a chance to unplug and step back… Kids and their imaginations take the lead.
Cost: Free
www.freeforestschool.org/free-forest-school-twin-cities-minnesota/

FRIENDS SCHOOL OF MINNESOTA
Want to make a film just like the professionals do? Feel like biking 10 (or 20!) miles a day? Have a secret stash of poems you want to share? Feel a need to express yourself through paint and paper-folding? Maybe you’d rather argue for the defense in a real courtroom? Friends School will be the place to do that—and more—from June to August for ages 4-14 (photo right provided). Weekdays, half- and full-day. Extended daycare in the mornings and afternoons and need-based financial aid available.
Cost: $105 to $295
651-621-8941
http://www.fsmn.org
GIBBS MUSEUM OF PIONEER AND DAKOTA LIFE CAMPS
Travel back in time and learn about life in the 1800s. Explore seasonal Dakota activities including the maple sugar camp, wild rice village, life in the tipi, hunting games, methods of travel, language, and song. Or enroll in Gibbs Girl or Digging history sessions. Three-day, half-day camps. One-day Pioneer PeeWees camps offered for ages 4-5.
Cost: $19-99
651-646-8629
http://www.rchs.com
HAMLINE YOUNG WRITERS
High school students ages 15-18 can explore the craft, prepare for college, and connect with other young writers in the Twin Cities, while working closely with Hamline Creative Writing faculty and published authors.
Cost: $400
651-523-2476
http://www.hamline.edu/gls/youngwriters
IRISH DANCE
Professional Irish Dance training by director Cormac O’Se, an original member of Riverdance.
612-722-7000
www.osheairishdance.com
MINNESOTA WALDORF SCHOOL
Join the Minnesota Waldorf School for good, old-fashioned summer fun June 12 to Aug. 18. Outdoor games, natural crafts, water play, gardening, fairy camp, and much more, all on their beautiful 8-acre campus. 70 East County Road B, St. Paul. For children ages 3.5 to (rising) 6th grade.
Cost: $150- $275
651-487-6700 x202
mnwaldorf.org/summercamp
RAPTOR CENTER
Summer sessions for ages 6-15 are run by the University of Minnesota’s Rec & Wellness Camps, from June 11 to Aug. 10.
Cost: $299
www.raptor.umn.edu
SPIRIT TAE KWON DO
Fun, exciting camps that combine physical fitness and education are offered throughout the summer for school-age kids. Register early for discounts.
651-428-6172
www.istkd.com
ST. PAUL ACADEMY
Make your own games and design circuits. Paint with pizzazz. Search out connections between visual art and creative writing, and explore the life of a story in journalism. Debate, play chess, learn about mathematical modeling and forecasting, make movies or delve into creative science options. Options at SPA cover a wide range of academic, arts, and enrichment activities for grades 2-12.
Cost: $195-385
651-698-2451
http://www.spa.edu

ST. PAUL BALLET
Summer is a great time to try dance. Programs include workshops and camps for ages 3 and up, weekly drop-in classes for teens and adults, and a new “mommy and me” baby class. (Photo right by Margie O’Loughlin)
Cost: $8.50-$20/hr
651-690-1588
www.spballet.org
ST. PAUL URBAN TENNIS
Located at 30+ sites, with several locations in the Midway-Como neighborhoods, St. Paul Urban Tennis offers a summer program for all age groups and skill levels. Tennis lessons combine high-quality instruction with life skills learning. Sampler Camps offer a condensed, 4-day version of the lesson program. Scholarships are available.
612-222-2879
http://stpaulurbantennis.org/2011-summer-program.php
YMCA
Explore the variety of Y Summer Programs at over 60 metro-area locations. Programs include flexible three-, four-, and five-day options. There’s something fun for everyone from preschool through grade nine.
Cost: $80-350
http://www.ymcatwincities.org/child_care__preschool/summer_programs

IN THE TWIN CITIES

ADVENTURES IN CARDBOARD
Be initiated into an ancient and esteemed House of The Realm, jump into live-action adventure gaming, build your own arms and armor, and more during these five-day, full-day sessions for ages 6-17. Buses available from Powderhorn Park and some camps held at Minnehaha Park. (Photo right provided)
Cost: $369
http://julianmcfaul.com
612-532-6764
ALEXANDER RAMSEY HOUSE
Solve mysteries of the past in this three-day History Detective Camp for ages 10-13. Or, young ladies ages 9-12 can step back in time to a unique Finishing School for Young Ladies day camp.
Cost: $220
612-341-7555
http://www.mnhs.org/summercamps
ANIMAL HUMANE SOCIETY
Unleashed summer campers entering grades 3-10 spend a full week immersed in animal learning and fun. NEW this year: Campers will spend their time exclusively in the shelters.
Cost: $120-300
http://www.animalhumanesociety.org/camps
763-489-2220
ARTICULTURE
A variety of art disciplines and mediums with themes like mirror images, urban forest, theater, art car, or paper and book arts offered for ages 4-18. Five-day, half- and full-day sessions available.
Cost: $155-285
612-729-5151
http://www.articulture.org
CAMP SUNRISE
Camp and canoe while learning leadership and teamwork skills in a seven-day resident camp for youths age 13-18 who live within the city limits of Minneapolis or St. Paul. Held on the St. Croix River in Rush City and organized by YouthCARE.
Cost: free
612-338-1233
http://www.youthcaremn.org
CIRCUS JUVENTAS
Explore international circus arts at Circus Juventas. Five-day, full-day sessions offered for ages 6-15. Or make your own camp with Circus Sampler Days
Cost: $85-405
651-699-8229
http://www.circusjuventas.org
CONCORDIA LANGUAGE VILLAGES
Experience cultural and language immersion; 15 languages to choose from. Resident camp for ages 6-18 and family camps.
Cost: $960-$4,510
800-222-4750
http://www.concordialanguagevillages.org
DODGE NATURE CENTER
Explore prairies, wetlands and woodland trails during full- and half-day, four-day camps offered for students entering 1-8 grades. Shorter sessions are available for ages 3-6.
Cost: $55-325
651-455-4531
www.dodgenaturecenter.org
ENGINEERING FOR KIDS
Day camps exploring science, technology, and engineering are offered in partnership with local community education programs. Sessions, length, and price are varied per location and type of camp for ages 4-14.
engineeringforkids.com
FARM TO TABLE
Make butter, ice cream, and bread while learning about science, agriculture, and history at the Bruentrup Heritage Farm in Maplewood. Plus, students will play old-time games like townball and do arts and crafts. Three four-day sessions offered in July and August.
Cost: $150
651-748-8645
http://www.maplewoodhistoricalsociety.org/pdfs/2017-Summer-Camp.pdf
FIDDLE PAL CAMP
Fiddle Pal Camp Minnesota is four days to discover, learn and play for children, adults, and families at three locations.
Cost: $395-495
http://americanfiddlemethod.com/fiddle-pal-camps/minnesota
FOCCI MN CENTER FOR GLASS
From fusing to casting to glass blowing, ages 9-18 are introduced to the mesmerizing medium of glass through immersive half-day, five-day experiences.
Cost: $325-425
612-623-3624
http://tinyurl.com/foci2016
FORT SNELLING
Experience the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder or the engineers and grenadiers who called Fort Snelling home. Experience outdoor skills and life in the early 1800s. Camps range from one to four days.
$75-$275
612-341-7555
http://www.mnhs.org/summercamps
GERMAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE CAMPS
Speak, hear, sing, and create in German while exploring subjects ranging from history and art to science and music during five-day, half-, full- and extended-day sessions for grades K-3 at the Germanic American Institute.
Cost: $130-150
651-222-2979
http://gai-mn.org
HEARTFELT
Summer camps allow time for more in-depth projects, such as Wild & Wooly, Fairies, Gnomes, Knights, Critters, and Classic Crafts, for kindergarten and up.
Cost: $120-$165
http://heartfeltonline.com/summer-camps
JUGHEADS JUGGLING CAMP
Half-day, five-day sessions and single day sessions for beginners through experts ages 8-18 enhance hand-eye coordination, boost concentration and build self-confidence.
Cost: $30-110
612-229-3348
http://jugheads.com
KID YOGA
Yoga infused throughout the day via story, dance, and games for campers age 5-12. Located on the Greenway = daily field adventures.
Cost: $75-355
612-202-5164
kidyogamn.com
INNER CITY TENNIS
Enjoy Summer Tennis in Minneapolis parks for ages 6-17.
Cost: $85-405
612-825-6844
http://www.innercitytennis.org
LEONARDO’S BASEMENT
Girls and boys ages 6 to 17 can design and build their creative ideas, mixing art, science, and technology during partial-day, weekday camps. There are more than 120 classes available over ten weeks of full and half-day Monday-Friday workshops begin June 11, including:
Engineering, art, design, craft and technology workshops available all summer; Friday-only workshops and Extended Day in mornings and afternoons; Theme weeks: Toys & Games + Sci-Fi & Fantasy, including a Giant Mouse Trap Maze and Enormous Viking Ship!; Marvelous teen workshops: metalworking, art, CAD, puzzle room build, video game design, stilting, woodworking and community design project!
Cost: $185-370, scholarships available
612-824-4394
www.leonardosbasement.org

LITTLE FOLK SUMMER CAMP
Ages 4-8 can participate in a nourishing, creative and relaxing “backyard” summer experience (photo right provided). The morning starts with free play/maker time with loose parts, a mud and wood chip kitchen, supervised use of basic tools, costumes and art projects. Take picnic lunches to nearby Bracket Park or trails along the Mississippi, where there is after-lunch reading time on blankets and in hammocks. Afternoons are spent at Brackett Park, playing ball, climbing trees, or playing at the playground or wading pool. Four weekly sessions offered.
Cost: $180/week
https://spark.adobe.com/page/uQchgLbM6xBeL/
LOFT LITERARY CENTER
There’s something for everyone—from the youngster just learning to put pen to paper to the seasoned high school senior with a novel already under her belt. Sessions run in week-long blocks July and August, full and half-day options available for ages 6-17.
Cost: $262-525
612-215-2575
https://www.loft.org/classes/about_youth_classes_6-17
LOPPET ADVENTURE CAMPS
Roller ski, mountain bike, canoe and more during adventure camps for ages 9-13 at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis. Equipment provided during the full-day, five-day sessions.
Cost: $200
612-604-5330
http://loppet.org

MINNEHAHA ACADEMY
A variety of athletic, academic and enrichment programs are offered, including woodcarving, viola and cello, combat robots, puddlestompers, fencing, movie making, sewing, painting, rocket science, drumming, and more. (Photo right provided) Half- and full-day, one- to three-week weekday sessions. Camp Minnehaha, a full day camp for pre-k to grade 8, includes daily devotions, games, indoor and outdoor activities, daily swimming lessons and a weekly off-campus activity.
Cost: $40-500
612-728-7745, ext. 1
http://www.minnehahaacademy.net
MILL CITY MUSEUM
Play music, get creative, bake bread and construct books while exploring the rich culture along the Minneapolis riverfront district. Campers aged 9-11 will explore a new experience each day at four arts centers.
Cost: $225-$250
612-341-7555
www.mnhs.org/summercamps
NORTHERN CLAY CENTER
Work with sculpture, tiles, or wheel-thrown pottery in half or full-day sessions for ages 6 and up.
Cost: $165-315
612-339-8007
www.northernclaycenter.org
SNAPOLOGY
Snapology camps provide a perfect mixture of STEAM learning and fun. With camps happening at the new Discovery Center in Uptown every week of the summer, as well as at various schools and educational partners around the Twin Cities, Snapology has got you covered for kids as young as 3 and as old as 14—Robotics, Coding, Science, Technology, Drones, Pre-K, Engineering, Architecture and more.
Cost: $150
https://www.snapology.com/locations/minneapolis
SOUTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS SOCCER
Southeast Soccer fields a variety of girls and boys teams for ages U9-U18 at beginner, intermediate and advanced competitive levels. Consider the Lil’ Dribblers soccer program for ages 4 -8, or summer traveling teams.
http://www.sesoccer.org
612-396-9511
STEPPING STONE THEATER
Learn about devised theater, music, and other performance art forms during these one- to two-week, half- and full-day sessions for preK to grade 12. Two theater classes offered in collaboration with the Science Museum and Minnesota Zoo.
Cost: $75-425
http://steppingstonetheatre.org
TEXTILE CENTER CAMPS
Sew, knit, felt, dye and more. Take home completed fiber items from three- and five-day, half-, full- and extended-day sessions for ages 6-16.
Cost: $87-370
612-436-0464
http://textilecentermn.org
TRAPEZE CENTER CIRCUS CAMP
Students ages 8-17 enrolled in the weeklong, half-day camps will experience a variety of circus disciplines (including Trampoline, Static Trapeze, Acrobatics, Circus Bike, and of course Flying Trapeze).
Cost: $275
651-262-9477
twincitiestrapeze.com
WHITE BEAR CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Painting, drawing, clay, theatre, writing, glass and much more for ages 6-14.
Cost: $23-$97
651-407-0597
http://www.WhiteBearArts.org

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is not a comprehensive list of every camp in the Twin Cities. If you would like to be included in next year’s guide, please send us detailed information on the camp.

Seniors invited to stroll around Como before park opens

Senior Strolls offered indoors and outdoors from 9-11am on the first Tuesday

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
Seniors, take a stroll through Como Park Zoo & Conservatory before it opens to the public on the first Tuesday of each month.
Senior Strolls is a new, free program for the 55+ community that began in December 2017. It is funded through the Legacy Amendment.
“This new program is a great way to get active and social, with a little adult learning thrown in to spice it up!” said Como staff member Noah Petermeier.
Activities in a beautiful space
The goal of the program is to encourage the 55+ community to engage in physical, social, and mental health activities in a beautiful space.
“We leave it up to the individual to choose how they wish to spend the time,” explained Como staff member Matt Reinartz. “Whether they want to come and chat with a friend, walk for exercise, meditate, or chat with an interpreter and learn some new plant and animal information, the choice is up to each participant.”

Photo right: Interpreters stationed inside the Conservatory share information and answer questions about the specific gardens. (Photo submitted)
Enter through the Visitor Center main entrance during cold months. Doors open promptly at 9am and Como opens to the public at 10am. Participants may bring a caregiver who is not 55+.
Calmer atmosphere
“People enjoy having the space open to them before public hours,” remarked Petermeier. “We receive positive comments from folks excited to be here without the crowds, and talking to the interpreters on an adult level.”
In the cold winter months, participants take refuge in the Conservatory, getting exercise at a comfortable temperature while still seeing lush greenery and plants from all over the world. There is a place for guests to hang up their jackets.
When the weather warms up, and the snow and ice melt away, early entry will shift from the Conservatory to the zoo grounds. Those who participate will get to experience the zoo waking up as they leisurely stroll around the outdoor spaces.
Guided learning
Volunteer interpreters answer questions and share fun facts with visitors as they stroll through the grounds that are calmer in the mornings before Como officially opens.

Photo left: “We receive positive comments from folks excited to be here without the crowds, and talking to the interpreters on an adult level,” remarked Como staff member Noah Petermeier. (Photo submitted)
Interpreters stationed inside the Conservatory share information and answer questions about the specific gardens. “They will be able to help guide your learning as you stroll,” observed Reinartz.
Como volunteer services department members at one station field questions about how people can get involved and volunteer their time at Como for those who are interested.
Right now the program is geared towards individual learning, but as it evolves organizers may include more structured learning opportunities, according to Reinartz.
Como also offers adult classes that provide more in-depth knowledge about plants, animals, and conservation. Browse the education section of at www.comozooconservatory.org or the Facebook page under events. Upcoming morning programs for adults include Orchid Odyssey on Apr. 21, Primate Enrichment on June 16, Japanese Gardens on Aug. 25, and Big Cat Enrichment on Oct. 21.

Gordon Parks High School celebrates 10th anniversary in March

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
Gordon Parks High School (GPHS) plans to celebrate its 10th anniversary in March with a week of special events.
GPHS is the largest of seven alternative day school programs in the St. Paul Public Schools district. Founded in 1991, the school was originally called the St. Paul Area Learning Center. It was renamed the Unidale Alternative Learning Center after the local strip mall it operated in. When the rented space became too small, the district constructed a new $7.5 million, 34,000-square-foot facility.
“We re-named ourselves from Unidale to Gordon Parks High School after moving from the corner of University and Dale to 1212 University,” recalled GPHS Curriculum and Media Arts Coordinator Paul Creager.
The new school was dedicated on March 6, 2008, just one day and two years after school namesake Gordon Parks died at age 93.
“Our interest in naming the school Gordon Parks was built around his legacy of living in St. Paul, and using the arts to transform his life and fight against racism and classism,” explained Creager.
“Since that time, our staff has led internal reform to create a brand of alternative instruction that attempts to reinvest student interest in lifelong learning. After a decade of this work, we have many more miles to go to reach our goal, but we want to recognize accomplishments.”
Carrying on the legacy of Gordon Parks
St. Paul native Gordon Parks’ life and work as a photographer, film-maker, writer, and civil rights activist provides the school with a model for the thoughtful, active, and successful citizens staff are dedicated to helping students become, according to the 10th-anniversary website gordonparks10.blogspot.com.
The school offers flexible programming, media-infused courses and curriculum, a supportive advisory program to help keep students on track for graduation, and a host of community partnerships, internships, and job support activities that use Gordon Parks’ life as an inspiration and guide.
As a small, orderly, and friendly school, staff work to make it impossible for students to be invisible or to get lost in the shuffle.
Gordon Parks High School is proud to carry on Parks’ legacy by infusing media activism and the arts into core subject areas. Like Parks himself, the staff strives to help students choose the most effective intellectual “weapons” that will transform their prospects and the world.
Students can fulfill state and district graduation standards requirements in many ways—from studying documentary film and nonfiction writing with the English department, to hands-on applied experiences in algebra and chemistry and community-based art, social studies, and environmental studies programs.
At Gordon Parks, students are expected to practice thinking in real ways as a part of their daily school experience. They are expected to be full participants in their own educations and to take themselves and their possibilities seriously.
GPHS offers a range of programs that meet the needs of about 200 students between the ages of 16 and 21, regardless of their current level of academic progress or educational achievement.
The school offers an 8:30am start time, with flexible, year-round, academic programs. Since implementing a three-week grading and curriculum cycle, attendance increased by 100 percent although daily attendance is about 50 percent.
To meet student needs the school has social workers, counselors, special education teachers, educational assistants, and on-the-job training.
This wide range of support services encourages lifelong learning while taking into account family situations, parenting concerns, employment schedules, and housing issues.
The school is also home to an evening high school and offers online classes to accommodate full-time and dual-enrolled students, as well as students who are working.
The school is geared towards students who are pregnant or parents; struggling with chemical dependency, mental health problems, or abuse; behind a grade level or two; limited in English proficiency; or homeless.
“We’re not bad kids,” remarked 17-year-old LaDavia Allcorn, who is a senior at GPHS. “People learn different ways. People don’t all learn by sitting in a little box and writing all the time. For me, I can’t sit there.” Instead, Allcorn has gotten involved in the various projects at the school, including creating a park next door to the school, and also serves on the leadership team. She appreciates how school staff has encouraged her to get involved.
She’ll graduate later this year, but she knows she’ll be back. “I’m not done,” said Allcorn. “I’m coming back to help this school.”
Celebration week events
Tues., Mar. 6 is slated as Gordon Parks Legacy Day at GPHS. The day will include comments from the Parks family, as well as showing of “Half Past Autumn: The Life and Works of Gordon Parks.”
On Wed., Mar. 7, “The Learning Tree Day,” students are encouraged to create art projects that will be displayed at a gala on Friday. “The Learning Tree,” a film written and directed by Gordon Parks in 1969, will be shown several times throughout the day. Community guests are welcome from 3-6:30pm.
Civic Engaged Storytelling Day is set for Thur., Mar. 8 with activities from 12:30-3pm. Mario Sprouse, Gordon Parks’ personal music arranger for 25 years, will be among the special guests that day. Presentations will focus on the intersection of civic engagement, storytelling, and curriculum. History of GPHS curriculum about Parks’ autobiography, “A Choice of Weapons,” will be given.
Gordon Parks Gala at the St. Paul Hotel will take place on Fri., Mar. 10, 6-9:30pm. It will include a three-course meal, silent auction, live music, a vibrant student-led showcase of projects and performances, as well as curriculum highlights from the last ten years. Special guests include Mario Sprouse and Gordon Park’s son David Parks. The evening features acclaimed Twin Cities actor and playwright Ronald Collier, who will read selections of Parks’ literary works.
Individuals tickets for the gala are $100. Or sponsor a table for $1,000; this includes five tickets for your organization and five tickets for students. Purchase tickets at spps.org/gordonparks-tickets.
Learn how community members, local businesses, and students can be involved in the celebration by contacting principal Traci Gauer at 651-744-1212.

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Park names whittled down to three after community vote

Gordon Parks High School students play role in shaping and digging into park’s history by collecting votes

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
Again and again, students at Gordon Parks High School (GPHS) have worked to make sure citizens are involved in the journey to transform a vacant lot next to their school into a five-acre park.
GPHS, along with the Skyline Tower apartment complex and Union Park District Council, expressed concern about the park name selection process being planned by the city earlier this year, pointed out Curriculum & Media Arts Coordinator Paul Creager.
“As a result, we helped organize a process that resulted in a huge increase in community participation, with numerous voting sites in the neighborhood adjacent to the future park,” said Creager. “We want to empower community.”
512 vote on top three names
The school served as a voting location for students and parents, as well as for nearby Midway residents.
Citizens were asked to give input on 15 possible park names. These 15 names originated from several community engagement activities in 2016-2017, where over 100 name ideas were gathered. Of those, 15 names met city of St. Paul criteria and were the most popular, including: All Nations/New Nations, Family (Lakota: Tiospaya or Tiwahe), Freedom, Gordon, Green, Harmony, International, Lexington-Hamline, Midway, Mosaic, Peace (Arabic: Salam), People (Somali: Bulsho), Union, Unity (Sanskrit: Samadhi) and University.
The voting process whittled the 15 options down to the most popular five in November: Peace Park, Midway Park, Mosaic Park, Tiwahe Park, and Unity Park.
At two meetings in December, one held at Skyline Towers and the other at the regular Union Park District Council Board meeting site, citizens agreed to forward three names to the city’s park and recreation commission.
The community voting process resulted in 512 votes being cast for Peace, Unity, and Midway.
St. Paul parks and recreation will recommend to the city council one name this month.
In the past, students have referred to the park as Three Ring Gardens after its long history of housing circuses, while the city labeled it Lexington Commons.
In 2016, with $1.5 million from the city’s 8-80 Vitality Fund, The Trust for Public Land put together the purchase of the three parcels that will become a 5-acre park as part of the group’s focus on more green space along the light rail line. The land was then conveyed to the city.
The park is still in the fundraising stage, and will hopefully be developed in late 2018.
Students and neighbors envision a playground, outdoor classroom/amphitheater, indoor gardening space and a community orchard at this property that sits 17 feet higher than University Ave. and offers a unique overlook of nearby treetops and rooftops.
It will be a park that champions open space, equity and access.
According to a green space assessment, just 2.3 percent of the area is dedicated to parkland, although parks make up an average of 15 percent of St. Paul. The new park will be within a 10-minute walk of more than 2,600 residents—including the residents of Skyline Tower, who are largely East African immigrants.
Student engagement
“Our work on the future park at Griggs is an example of civically engaged storytelling-approaches to curriculum,” remarked Creager. “Highly engaging, state-standard aligned curriculum is available in the community around a school and doesn’t need to be purchased from Pearson Inc. and Scholastic. For students, interaction with this park project boosted their sense of civic agency, and familiarity with the processes of championing community change.”

Photo right: Gordon Parks High School English teacher Jamie Tomlin collects ideas for park names during a student-led event on the future park property held in 2017. These names were then whittled down to 15, then five, and finally three that were forwarded to the parks and recreation department. The three finalists were Peace, Unity, and Midway. In all, 512 votes were cast on the names. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)
Creager added, “For the educators involved, the project gave us an opportunity to apply learning in a relevant, tangible way, and show that schools can play a vital role in the communities where they are located.”
GPHS remains dedicated to staying informed regarding ongoing park work through the Trust for Public Land and city of St. Paul.
Although 17-year-old LaDavia Allcorn will graduate this spring, she plans to come back and assist with the park. “I’m not done,” she said. “That park isn’t built yet.”
The park caught Allcorn’s attention the very first day she attended GPHS as a sophomore, and ever since she’s been working to make the park a reality. She’s so glad for the opportunity through GPHS to get credit for “doing something amazing like this.” Working through the process of getting a park created has been an eye-opener for her.
“I’m ready for that park to be built,” said Allcorn. She’s excited for the day when she can bring her kids to the park and let them know she helped make it happen.
It is a park that the school and nearby community need, according to Allcorn, who recently helped garner votes on the park name. Personally, she favored the name “Our Park,” because, as she explained, “It’s everyone’s park.”
Allcorn pointed out that parks are beneficial in many ways, and she’s looking forward to students being able to have a space to spread out a blanket, take a break from school, and enjoy the mental health benefits associated with green space.
“They deserve that,” stated Allcorn, who observed that this park might be something small for others, but it’s something big for them.
Soil analysis at park site
GPHS students have also begun collaborating with Kat Hayes, an anthropology professor at the University of Minnesota, and her grad students.
“The future parkland has a unique history, and some of the soil is relatively undisturbed,” stated Creager.
Students have done archaeological mapping projects on the property.
The archaeology curriculum includes components such as biology modules using bone casts and teaching bones from the university’s anthropology department labs. A demonstration was given on LIDAR (light detection and ranging), a noninvasive way to record and assess the site, as well as a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) module, that gave students a chance to see how this technology is used in the field.
Students also learned how archaeologists set up sites and document everything in 3D space.
Under the direction of GPHS science teacher Joel Abdella, students have recently begun conducting a soil analysis project.
This project and the future park space has “helped begin years of science and social studies curricular inquiry,” said Creager. “These projects also create a shareable class experience that will help inspire more taxpayer support to leverage policymaker involvement with thoughtful school change, and inspire students and staff to keep pushing for the educational reform our schools need.”
Creager added, “Kat is also an incredible fit for us because she brings a deep background of exploring sensitive racial and economic histories into archaeological inquiry.”
Participants appreciate this project because it involves so many things—historical research, contemporary social relevance of urban planning, questions of environmental justice, applications of science and math to real-world problems, and thinking about how to commemorate the past.

Pages

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

IN THE TWIN CITIES

Thursday, February 15, 2018

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

IN THE TWIN CITIES

Senior Strolls offered indoors and outdoors from 9-11am on the first Tuesday

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Gordon Parks High School students play role in shaping and digging into park’s history by collecting votes