Fall and Winter are wonderful seasons in Rochester, Minnesota. Here are some ideas for fall and winter fun. New events will be listed at the top of each section so it is easy to identify them as new. If you know of other events/items that should be listed on our Fall/Winter Fun page, email us at lindy@rochesterfamilies.com.
The Fall/Winter 2007 webpage is brought to you by
Free Tax HelpThe United Way is offering free tax help (filling out tax forms) for families with low incomes. Call 2-1-1 for a list of locations and to see if you qualify. You can also find out if your family qualifies for the Earned Income Credit. The credit is for you if at least part of your income is from a job and if your 2007 income is less than certain amounts (one child $35,241; two or more children, $39,783). It can reduce your tax and may even result in a refund. You may even get money from the Earned Income Credit even if you don't owe tax. Find out more at
www.uwolmsted.org/financialstabilitypartnership.
Family Fun WeekFamily Fun Night, Feb. 1 through 10, gives your family the opportunity to help other young families in our area that have been affected by a breast cancer diagnosis. In an effort to bring awareness and raise funds for a new support organization, Young Survivors, breast cancer survivor, Kelly Kruger (
www.caringbridge.org/visit/kellykruger) and her family, in partnership with several local businesses, are bringing awareness to her efforts. Local businesses have agreed to provide a donation to her cause based upon participation of the community at several family fun events that her family is hosting throughout the week.
Families can bowl at Recreation Lanes on Friday the 1st; attend the Super Bowl Party for Families at Rochester Recreation Center on Sunday the 3rd; play Bunko/Bingo at Rochester Central Lutheran School on Monday the 4th; watch the Minnesota Ice Hawks play hockey on Wednesday the 6th; make a special family plate at Color Me Mine on Thursday the 7th; attend the Child/Parent Valentine Dance at the YMCA on Friday the 8th; and enjoy an afternoon of snowtubing and sleigh rides at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch on Sunday the 10th, followed by a dinner and motivational speech by Bob Bardwell. Visit the ROCHESTERfamilies.com Calendar of Events for more details on all of these family-friendly events or contact Kelly at 261-5315 or kellykruger@pitel.net.
OPERATION SNOWSTORMCommunity Ed is offering a two-week family volunteer opportunity -- Operation Snowstorm. Week one it's kids only (they'll be making snow-related crafts) and week two parents join the kids to pack the kids crafts and other donated items into care packages for U.S. soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. The project is being done in partnership with Operation Hometown Gratitude. Since 2005, OHG has sent more than 3,000 care packages to U.S. soldiers. There are two sessions: Jan. 15 and 22 or Feb.12 and 19, 6 p.m.to 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per family.
www.rochester.k12.mn.us/school86/genie10/images/files/youth_winter_2008_online.pdf (see page 17)
SOS (SUMMER OF SERVICE)Looking for a great summer opportunity? Join SOS for two weeks of fun. SOS is a program for youth who have completed grades 5 - 11. During each two-week session, youth will work on a team of ten helping our community with different service-learning projects. Registration forms will be available after March 7. For more information please call 281-7301.
• Session 1 - June 16-27
• Session 2 - July 7-18
• Session 3 - July 21-Aug. 1
• Session 4 - Aug. 4 - 15
MIDDLE SCHOOL PREP PROGRAMThe Middle School Prep Program will be offered June 9 through 20 from 8 a.m. to noon at John Adams, Kellogg, and Willow Creek Middle Schools. A one-week program will be offered at Friedell Middle School June 9 through 13. Enrolling in the Prep Program will give incoming 6th graders an opportunity to become familiar with the middle school they will be attending. Brochures will be sent home with all 5th graders in early April. For further information, contact Community Ed at 281-7301.
SOCCER WORLDSoccer World offers a variety of classes including: Parent/Toddler, Turf Tyke Soccer (ages 3-5), Turn Tyke Multi-Sport (ages 3-5), and Turn Tyke Tumble & Kick (ages 3-5). Soccer World is located off of HWY 63 in Woodlake Park near the old Fleet Farm. Visit their website for dates, times and registration information:
www.soccerworldmn.com.
PRESCHOOL SPANISH CLASSESTo register for any or all of the following classes, please send an email to jaclynthompson@yahoo.com, or call Jackie Thompson at 536-4179. State which class (classes) you are interested in, along with your child’s name (children’s names) and age(s). Your check is due by the end of registration. Classes are on a first-come, first-service basis. Please respond as soon as possible to ensure your spot. Make/send check to: Jackie Thompson 1985 Hart Dr SW Rochester MN 55902.
Winter Spanish Camp for Preschoolers (ages 2-5): Monday, Jan. 14 - Friday, Jan. 18 9-9:45AM at Berean Community Church. $35 per child for entire session, or $8 per session (up to 3 sessions), two or more children from same family $30 each. There will be two instructors (Jackie Thompson and Rebecca Klein) in the classroom each session, with a maximum of 14 students. Topics will include: animals, foods, colors, numbers, shapes, weather, greetings and farewells. Registration closes: Jan. 1.
Parent/Child Spanish Class (ages 2-5): Jan. 30-Feb. 27 (each Wednesday for 5 weeks)
8:45-9:15AM at instructor’s home (Jackie Thompson 1985 Hart Dr SW) $50 parent/child pair, additional sibling with same parent $20. Your child will have fun learning general vocabulary through games, songs, finger plays, crafts and activities. Parents will learn creative ways of reinforcing what has been learned, and will take part actively in class with their child. Registration closes: Jan. 20
8-week Preschool Spanish Class (ages 3-5): March 26-May 14 (each Wednesday for 8 weeks). 8:45-9:15AM at instructor’s home (1985 Hart Dr SW). $65 child, additional sibling $40
This is a child only class. Your child will learn the Spanish vocabulary for colors, numbers, shapes, weather, seasons, foods, family, familiar objects, and much, much more. Each class will include a story, songs, activities, games, and a craft. Registration closes: March 15.
A NUTCRACKER PARTYRochester Symphony Orchestra & Chorale and Allegro School of Dance & Music present “A Nutcracker Party” Saturday December 22, 2pm & 7pm at Mayo Civic Center. Tickets available at the Mayo Civic Center, Ticketmaster, and the Rochester Symphony Orchestra & Chorale Office. This is a wonderful opportunity for local dancers, as young as 7 years old, to perform live with a professional orchestra. All roles are played by Allegro students, family members, and Alumni. 288-0125.
GATEway Science FairScientific effort + creative ability + project presentation = science fair project! Plan to attend this year’s Grade 2-6 GATEway Science Fair! It is scheduled for Saturday, February 16, 2008, from 12:30 to 5:15 p.m. at the Mayo Clinic Gonda Building. During the Science Fair, entrants will present their projects to reviewers and enjoy a “cool” presentation about Antarctica by the Science Museum of Minnesota. The public is invited to view the projects at 4:30 p.m. The event closes with the distribution of reviewer comments and participation certificates at 5:15 p.m. The GATEway Science Fair is hosted by the Mayo Foundation Chapter of Sigma Xi.
Registration will be through the Winter Community Education brochures or online at rochesterce.recware.com. Entry fee is $9.00 and includes a t-shirt and a snack. Registration deadline is January 25th. Late registrations will be accepted with the same fee, but will not receive a t-shirt. See rules and a printable mail-in registration form at www.geocities.com/gateroch. Contact Diane Hanson (507-281-1498 or dianembh@yahoo.com) or Daksha Chhugani (507-288-2595 or daksha_chhugani@yahoo.com) with questions.
HOLIDAY KID CAMP @ CROSSINGSLooking for a creative gift for the children in your life? Crossings is hosting a holiday art camp for kids ages kindergarten and up to help answer the “What can I do?” question during the holiday break, Thursday and Friday, December 27 and 28. The morning session runs 9 a.m. to noon for grades K through 4. The afternoon session runs 1 to 4 p.m. for grades 5 through 9. Cost is $48 (includes all supplies). Students will create all three projects.
Bath Bombs. What are bath bombs? They’re like giant alka-seltzers for your bath. They spin, whirl and swirl in your tub while releasing scent and skin-softening agents. They make bath time super fun! Students will make about 15 bath bombs to take home and recipes to use. Instructor Amy Brooks is owner of Bubbles by Brooks, a Rochester-based company that produces hand-crafted soaps and artisan bath products.
Cool Caps. Make bottle caps into great works of coolness! Atop a bottle is one perfect mini-frame for art, charms, messages and keepsakes. Learn how to “capture” treasures in clear resin and use them on zippers, cell phones, key chains and pendants. Instructor: Marie Marvin.
Chinese Noisemakers. Ring in the new year with these fun shakers created out of clay, decorated with Chinese luck animals and symbols. Instructor: Emily Wartsbaugh.
If you have children in both age groups and prefer them to come together, let us know when you register. Space is limited – call soon to reserve your spot. To register, stop in to Crossings at 320 East Ave in Zumbrota, or call 507-732-7616. For more information, visit www.crossingsatcarnegie.com
COATS FOR KIDSIf you have an extra winter coat and would like to donate it to Coats for Kids, drop it off at the Salvation Army (right by K-Mart). You do not need to mention that they are Coats for Kids coats as all the coats are put on the sales floor and then an individual or family with vouchers can come in and use a voucher to purchase the coat of their choice for free. If someone in your family needs a coat, call Cindy Norgard of the Salvation Army, 288-3663. She can help you complete the paperwork necessary to receive a voucher for a free coat.
OPENING BOWLING @ REC LANESRecreation Lanes will offer open bowling all day every day Saturday, Dec. 22 through Tuesday, Jan. 2 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). There will be no league bowling in order to allow families to spend some quality time together. Visit their website for hours, fees, etc.
www.reclanes.2gobowl.com • 288-2601.
SANTA CLAUS @ A PUZZLED WORLDSanta Claus is stopping by A Puzzled World for cookies, hot apple cider and pictures. A Puzzled World is a store that offers a fun, relaxing, engaging experience for the whole family and specializes in products and services that help improve the quality of life for family members with disabilities. Call to reserve your spot at the party. 3110 Wellner Dr. Suite 300 (behind Whistle Binkie’s North). Saturday, Dec. 8, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 206-4222
www.apuzzledworld.com
Sesame Street Live "When Elmo Grows Up" @ Target CenterWhen Elmo and his Sesame Street Live friends think about growing up, it’s a musical show-and-tell! Bert dreams of becoming a forest ranger, Telly longs to be a cowboy and their newest friend, Abby Cadabby, wants to be a Fairy Godmother just like her mommy. Elmo thinks about becoming a ‘weather monster,’ but has a hard time predicting his own forecast—he wants to be anything and everything all at once! “When Elmo Grows Up” includes lessons on perseverance, teamwork and the power of imagination. Children learn that if they believe in themselves and are willing to try, the possibilities are endless.
Wednesday, Jan. 16, 7 p.m.; Thursday, Jan. 17, 10:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 19, 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 20, 1 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
Target Center, 600 1st Avenue North, Minneapolis. Tickets: $12 and $18. A limited number of $25 Premium seats and $35 Gold Circle seats are also available. *Opening Night, all seats (excluding Premium and Gold Circle) are $10. Additional fees and discounts may apply. For more information, call 612-673-0900. To charge tickets by phone, please call Ticketmaster at 651-989-5151. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com. For information online, please visit www.sesamestreetlive.com.
CROP FOR KELLYCrop for Kelly -- a benefit for Kelly Kruger who is currently battling breast cancer. Kelly is from Oronoco and is a wife and mother of two young children. The benefit will be held Dec. 8 and 9, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (you can attend either day) at Reflections Retreat Home, Mazeppa. The first two hours of each day will be dedicated to scrapping the Kruger family’s memories. The remaining 12 are yours -- so get those photos and scrapping supplies ready. Space is very limited. Meals are included. The entry fee is $100 with 100 percent of the money benefiting the Kruger family.
Visit
www.scrapbookroyalty.com/events.html to register, visit
www.reflectionsretreat.com to find out more about Reflections Retreat Home or visit
www.caringbridge.org/visit/kellykrugerSANTA SOCK HOPDance with Santa this holiday season! Join Santa and some of his elves while we dance the Macarena, hokey pokey, and chicken dance. This evening will be filled with fun dance activities, cookie decorating, photos with Santa, and craft making. A sure hit for the whole family! Cost: $20/family, $10 OFF for Y Family Members. (An additional $5.00 per family will be added to registrations after Tuesday, Dec. 4th). For more information call the Y at 287-2260.
SUGAR PLUM FAIRY TEA PARTYEnjoy a delightful afternoon tea with the graceful Sugar Plum Fairy and other costumed characters from Rochester Dance Company’s production of The Nutcracker. With a scrumptious array of cream puffs, spun sugar and miniature cupcakes crowned with frosting, a fountain of fruit punch and lots of sparkle, the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party is a child’s holiday dream come true. When the lovely Sugar Plum Fairy enters with her entourage of Nutcracker characters, it will be time for a special treat: a sneak preview of The Nutcracker, to be performed by Rochester Dance Company at the Mayo Civic Center December 15-16. After the performance, each child will have the opportunity to sit on a golden throne for a photo with the Sugar Plum Fairy. Wear your holiday finery, and bring your camera! Choose from two tea party times: Sunday, December 9, 1:30 p.m. or 4:00 p.m. Marriott Hotel Ballroom $10 per person. Make a reservation by completing a reservation form and returning it with payment to Rochester Dance Company by December 5. Reservation forms are available at www.rochesterdancecompany.org (click Special Events/Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party). Your reservation will be confirmed by e-mail or phone. For more information, call 507/288-9653. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
SEASONS HOSPICE ADULT GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPSometime during our walk with grief, we find ourselves wanting to better understand this journey and to share with others who have experienced similar losses. Seasons Hospice is offering an eight-session support group for those who wish to explore issues related to grief and loss. Offered Tuesdays, January 8 – February 26, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, Seasons Hospice Office, OR Wednesdays, January 9 – February 27, 12:30 pm to 2:00 p.m. Zumbro Lutheran Church. Facilitated by Seasons Hospice Staff and Volunteers. Register by January 3. Call 285-1930 or e-mail shbp@seasonshospice.org. Freewill donations are gratefully accepted.
RYVA TRYOUTSSouthern Minnesota Volleyball tryouts will be held on Saturday, November 17 at the National Volleyball Center. Elite level teams will tryout from 8 to 11 a.m., 12 and under teams from 9 to 11 a.m., and Gold and Club level teams from 1 to 3 p.m. The Rochester Youth Volleyball Association organizes and promotes youth volleyball programs for children ages 8-18 in the city of Rochester and the surrounding communities. More information about tryouts and RYVA can be found at
www.rochesteryouthvolleyball.org.
SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGINGThe Christmas Red Kettle Season is just around the corner and the Salvation Army needs your help again this year! This year’s kettle goal is $175,000. Every hour a volunteer rings a handbell, nearly $50 is given to help those most in need. A kettle with no volunteer raises only pocket change. With over 20 locations to choose from, there are plenty of opportunities to serve from November 16th through December 24th. You can egister on-line at
www.RegisterToRing.com/rochester. Or if you'd rather register via phone, call Jeff at (507) 288-3663 Ext. 118.
DISH IT UPDish it Up • 3456 East Circle Drive N.E. • 292-1100 • www.dishituprochester.com offers Cooking with Kids Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. The parent/child class costs $76, lasts an hour (or a little more), includes snacks to enjoy while you assemble meals, and is open to kids (and parents) of all ages. Call ahead to reserve a spot and choose your meals (you’ll make four family entrees that serve 4 - 6, and get a free side dish). Find current meal options on their website under “Current Menus” (note, they always offer kid favorites such as chicken fingers, calzones and mini pizzas).
Hysterical Historical Halloween @ History CenterFall activities and lots of fun are planned for a harvest celebration on Saturday, October 27 from 10 am to 2 pm at the History Center of Olmsted County. Historical Hysterical Halloween will include crafts, refreshments, carnival games, an interactive model train exhibit, a spooky schoolhouse, storytelling, a maze, theater and more.
Children are welcome to wear their costumes to trick or treat at the Dee Cabin. Admission is $5 per person. Children under 5 are free. Adults are free with a paying child. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. The History Center is located at 1195 W Circle Dr. SW (County Rd22) in Rochester. A map is available on the web at www.olmstedhistory.com. For more information, call Cheryl Finnegan at 282-9447.
PLUMMER HOUSE HALLOWEEN PARTY
Come to the Plummer House for the Pumpkin Patch Party and join in the fun. We have games, crafts, and stories for everyone. Your costume will add to the thrill of the night: but don't worry, it won't be an evening of fright. If you joined us before, it won't be a repeat. We have all new ideas - right down to the treat. Register through Community Ed • 285-8646 • www.rochester.k12.mn.us. Class held on Oct. 30. 3yrs - grade 1, 4:30-6pm. Grade 2 - 5, 6:30-8pm. Note: An adult must attend with student during the 4:30-6pm time slot.
EVENTS @ QUARRY HILLFull Moon Hike on Sat., Sept. 29, 7:30-9:00 p.m. Fee: $3 Adult/$2 Child. Celebrate the Harvest Moon with an evening hike. Open to families and adults. Pre-registration required. Not suitable for strollers. Quarry Hill • 701 Silver Creek Road N.E. • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.orgHalloween Happening, October 26 & 27. Friday/5:15 & Saturday/4:30 with hikes starting every 15 minutes (last hike leaves at 8:15pm). A fun evening for parents and children ages 4-12 including a guided hike through the Quarry Hill woods, cave, and across the pond bridge. Along the hike participants will encounter human-portrayed 'Creatures of the Night', including an owl, muskrat, bat, skunk & raccoon. Hour long hikes will end at the Nature Center with treats and other fun things to do. Fee per session/person: $5. Quarry Hill • 701 Silver Creek Road N.E. • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.orgQuarry Hill Nature Center Art Show/Sale Saturday, December 1, 10:00 - 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 2, Noon-4:30 p.m.Have your holiday shopping list ready! Art classes for adults and kids will be available. Quarry Hill • 701 Silver Creek Road N.E. • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.orgFull Moon Friday – Fri., Dec. 21, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Fee: $5 Adult/$4 Child. The Winter Solstice marks the longest night of the year – a great time to enjoy the beautiful full moon of December. We’ll hike for approximately 40 min. and then return to the Nature Center to roll beeswax candles and have a light snack. Each participant will receive one sheet of beeswax and instructions for turning it into the candle(s) of their choice. Hike not suitable for strollers. Quarry Hill • 701 Silver Creek Road N.E. • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.orgNew Year's Eve at Quarry Hill, December 31, 7:00-10:00 p.m. Celebrate the New Year Quarry Hill style! Bring your friends and family and enjoy: cave tours, skiing & snowshoeing (depending on snow conditions), animal encounters, crafts, games, nature trivia contest, and a yummy snack buffet. It's a special evening that's fun for all ages. Children must be accompanied by a parent. Fee per person: $5. Quarry Hill • 701 Silver Creek Road N.E. • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.orgNature Day(s) for grades K-5. October 19, Nov. 9, Jan. 21, 9:00-11:30 a.m. Fee for each activity: $15.00. Attend one or all sessions exploring and enjoying nature during these non-schools days. Each class is geared for the changes in season. Programs will include inside and outside activities, plus a snack. Quarry Hill • 701 Silver Creek Road N.E. • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.orgWinter Break Activity Days for grades K-2. December 26, 27, and 28, 9:00-11:30 a.m. Fee per 3 sessions: $45.00. Join us during this magic time of the year doing seasonally appropriate activities. Programs will include inside and outside activities, plus a snack. Quarry Hill • 701 Silver Creek Road N.E. • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.orgSANTA @ APACHE MALLApache Mall's Breakfast with Santa (Santa arrival event) is Saturday, November 17, 10am in the Food Court. Entertainment will be provided by the Teddy Bear Band. Apache Mall Food Court.
www.apachemall.com.
Photos with Santa at Apache Mall run Saturday, Nov. 17 through Monday, Dec. 24. Photo hours for the season are: Monday - Saturday: 10am-1pm, 2pm-4:30pm, 5:30pm-8pm, Sunday: Noon-2pm, 3pm-6pm. Photo packages start at $19.99
www.apachemall.comPet Night with Santa is Tuesdays, November 27, December 4 & 11, 5:30 – 8:30pm. $2 from each purchase will be donated to an area shelter.
www.apachemall.com
B&N HOLIDAY BOOK DRIVEBarnes & Noble Apache Mall is hosting a Holiday Book Drive. Customers buy a book and it is then donated to Child Care Resource & Referral. From there, books will be given to participants in CCR&R programs including Head Start and School Readiness. Last year 846 books were donated! This year they are shooting for 1500. The book drive starts November 1 and goes thru Dec. 15. For more information call 281-6826.
Y's Halloween PartyFor a safe, exciting Halloween, the Rochester Area Family Y is again offering an imaginative experience – an evening for little goblins and their families to enjoy in an environment that’s both caring and safe. The Y’s annual Spooktacular takes place on Friday, October 26 at the Rochester Area Family Y-709 1st Ave SW.Friday, Oct. 26 6:00-8:30PM. Have a truly SPOOKTACULAR time this Halloween as we party INSIDE the Y at the annual Spooktacular event! Come for a ghoulish trip through our spooky treat trail and up to the caverns for a goblin of a good time. This is a perfect way to stay active this Halloween season. Cost: $5.00/ Y member ages 3-17, $10.00/ non- Y member ages 3-17 Children younger than 3 years old and adults are FREE!! Each child MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult who attends the event! NOTE: Registration price after Tues. Oct. 23rd will be an additional $5.00 per person. For more information, please visit
www.rochfamy.org or call 287-2260 ext. 354.
RYSA REGISTRATIONOnline registration for the Rochester Youth Soccer Association's Spring/Summer 2008 Traveling soccer program is now available. Please visit our website at
www.rysa.org and follow the registration links. Registration for Spring/Summer 2008 Traveling soccer will be available through November 1, 2007. After November 1, 2007, registration will only be available on-site or by phone, with a $20 late fee applied and players placed on teams if space is still available.
PIPSQUEAKSPipsqueaks • 328-2525 • www.rochestermn.gov/departments/park/facilities/pipsqueaks/index.asp Rochester’s INDOOR play zone, is designed for children kindergarten-age and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. A community partnership between the Rochester Park & Recreation Department and the United Way of Olmsted County Inc., Pipsqueaks offers young children a safe, clean play space to burn off energy during the long winter months. In addition, parents and their kids can share in activities, meet with existing playgroups and make new friends. Pipsqueaks is designed to offer safe play zones loaded with toys and activities, that kindergarten-age and younger children will enjoy. Pipsqueaks is staffed and maintained by the Rochester Park & Recreation Dept. to ensure a clean, consistent environment. And, it provides convenient restroom access with changing area. Pipsqueaks is located in the gymnasium of the United Way of Olmsted County Inc., 903 West Center Street in Rochester. Parking is free and is available adjacent to the building. Hours of Operation: Monday, October 22, 2007/Closing for Season: End of April, 2008. Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Closed Sundays. Pipsqueaks will be closed on all major holidays and when the Rochester Public Schools are closed because of inclement weather. Admission: $2 per child per day, $6 for up to 4 children per day. Code of Conduct: Pipsqueaks will be staffed by the Rochester Park & Recreation Dept. to ensure a SAFE, RESPECTFUL and RESPONSIBLE environment. Pipsqueaks code of conduct includes: 4 children maximum per adult
Children may NOT be dropped off. Children must be accompanied by a parent or adult 16 years of age or older. The parent/adult that accompanies the child(ren) to Pipsqueaks is responsible for supervising the child(ren) while in the play space. All children must be kindergarten-age or younger. Only soft-soled clean gym shoes are allowed in play areas - no boots, stockings or bare feet allowed
NORTHWOODS ORCHARD
Northwoods Orchard • 8018 75th Ave. NW, Oronoco • 280-0591 • www.northwoodsorchard.com opens Sept. 8. It offers pick-your-own or pre-picked apples fresh from the orchard, two corn mazes, a wide assortment of fall ornamentals (including pumpkins), and the Back Forty Animal Area for up-close, hands-on farm animal interaction (feed the goats, see if the hen laid an egg, pet a bunny, visit the pig pen). Wagon Rides are offered as conditions permit. Northwoods Orchard opens for the 2007 Season on Saturday, September 8 (closes October 28). Hours are as follows: September: Saturdays, 10am-6pm. Sundays, 1pm- 6pm. October: Fridays, 10am-6pm. Saturdays, 10am-6pm. Sundays, 1pm-6pm. Special "School's Out" Day at the Orchard - Thursday, October 18, 10am-6pm.
LIGHTS @ BLUFF VALLEYKTTC Lights @ Bluff Valley runs October 18 through November 25, Fridays and Saturdays (5-11pm), Sunday through Thursday (5-10pm), 2 miles west of Zumbro Falls. Take a drive ($12/car) through the only lighted maze in the world. The maze is one mile long and includes 450 displays. You can also enjoy the free nightly entertainment (7pm and 8pm, includes "American Pop Forever", "Encore" and more fabulous rotating schedules of music, dance, choreography and talent performed by area high school youth) and the Park and Play Activities (nightlight basketball golf, mini-golf, disc golf, and wagon tours). Also enjoy the dinner buffet, 5-8:30pm, $10.95/adults, $6.95/5-12, Free/4 and under with paid adult. For more info, including directions, visit their website
www.BluffValley.com or call 1-877-GO-SEE-IT.
ROCHESTER PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT'S KICK OFF TO KINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSEDo you have a child entering kindergarten in the 2008-09 school year? Do you know your options?
Get your questions answered at Rochester Public Schools’ Kick Off to Kindergarten Open House on Thursday, September 27, from 4-7 p.m. on the 3rd floor of Northrop Education Center, 201 8th St. NW. Kick Off to Kindergarten is an open house for parents and guardians to get information about their options for kindergarten in Rochester Public Schools. Representatives from neighborhood schools, choice schools, and District programs attend Kick Off to Kindergarten, including the Transportation Department, Early Childhood Check-In/Screening, School Age Child Care (SACC), Community Education, Head Start, School Readiness, and Parents Are Important in Rochester (PAIIR). Parents can learn about District programs, busing, child care, early childhood family education, and more. PAIIR and School Readiness will have information available to help you prepare your child for school.
Families with children who will attend kindergarten in September 2008 are encouraged to attend Kick Off to Kindergarten this year. Kick Off to Kindergarten is the only “one stop” opportunity for parents to speak to school and program representatives. Children are welcome to attend with their parents. PAIIR will have activities available for parents and children to do together. For more information contact PAIIR at (507) 285-8033.
OXBOW PARK HALLOWEEN PARTY
Friends of Oxbow Halloween Program. October 27, 7:00 p.m. at Oxbow. Food, Games, and Fun! Costumes Encouraged! Reservations required. Call 775-2451. Free admission. Donations accepted.
ROCHESTER FIRE - PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL TEAM
The Rochester Fire is Rochester's new professional basketball team. The Fire will play a total of 36 games - 18 home (at the Mayo Civic Center) and 18 away. The Fire are members of the American Basketball Association and will play 12 ABA teams in a season that runs November through March. Reserved tickets are $8/children and $12/adults. General admission tickets are $5/children and $10/adults. For a complete home schedule (game dates and times) log onto the Fire's website at
www.rochesterfireaba.com.
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTING EVENTS
Even if your kids are more preschool than high school, fall high school sports are always a good time for the entire family. And what a fun way to show your school (and community) spirit! Visit the Big 9 Conference website,
http://www.big9.org/g5-bin/client.cgi?G5genie=4 for Mayo (Spartans), Century (Panthers), and John Marshall (Rockets) athletic schedules. Visit
www.hvlconference.org/g5-bin/client.cgi?G5genie=10&school_id=4for Lourdes (Eagles) athletic schedules.
THE NUTCRACKER - ROCHESTER DANCE COMPANY
RDC presents The Nutcracker at Mayo Civic Center’s Presentation Hall. Saturday, December 15 at 2:00 p.m.; Sunday, December 16 at 1:00 p.m.; Sunday, December 16 at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 and $18. All seats for Rochester Dance Company’s production of The Nutcracker are reserved. After each performance, audience members will be invited to the Land of Sweets Party at the Civic Center, where they can enjoy holiday treats and meet the Sugar Plum Fairy, Clara and other Nutcracker characters. Admission to the Land of Sweets Party is an additional $6. Tickets can be purchased at the Mayo Civic Center Box Office, 287-2222; at Ticketmaster locations (Macy’s); via Ticketmaster charge by phone, 252-1010; or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
POSSABILITIES
PossAbilities • 281-6116 •
www.possabilities.org is a nonprofit agency dedicated to providing meaningful work and community opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. They offer a variety of classes, click here
PossAbilities to find out more.
MINNESOTA ICE HAWKS
The Minnesota Ice Hawks Ice Hockey Jr. League play at the Rochester Rec. Center (21 Elton Hills Drive). Games subject to change. Always call the Info Line 535-0100 or visit their website
www.mnicehawks.com to check for schedule (date/time) changes. Fans are encouraged to bring their skates and "Skate with the Hawks" after every game. Ticket prices are: Adult/$7, Students (HS & College with ID)/$5; Senior Citizens (65+)/$5; Children (12 and under)/$2; Preschoolers/No Charge.
Minnesota Ice Hawks 2007-2008 Home Schedule
Saturday, 9/29 VS Hudson Crusaders at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 10/6 VS TC Northern Lights at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 10/13 VS TC Northern Lights at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 10/19 VS Minnesota Flying Aces at 7:05p.m.
Satuday, 10/20 VS Minnesota Owls at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 10/26 VS Granite City Lumberjacks at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 10/27 VS Hudson Crusadersat 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 11/10 VS Wisconsin Mustangs at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 11/17 VS Granite City Lumberjacks at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 11/23 VS Minnesota Owls at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 11/30 VS Minnesota Flying Aces at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 12/7 VS St. Paul Lakers at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 12/8 VS St Louis Lightning at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 12/22 VS St Paul Lakers at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 12/29 VS St Louis Lightning at 7:05p.m.
Monday, 12/31 VS Wisconsin Mustangs at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 1/4 VS TC Northern Lights at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 1/5 VS Granite City Lumberjacks at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 1/25 VS Minnesota Owls at 7:05p.m.
Saturday, 1/26 VS Minnesota Flying Aces at 7:05p.m.
Wednesday, 2/6 VS St. Paul Lakers at 7:05p.m.
Friday, 2/15 VS St. Louis Lightning at 7:05 p.m.
Saturday, 2/16 VS Hudson Crusaders at 7:05p.m.
Sunday, 2/17, Wisconsin Mustangs at 5:35p.m.
KINDERMUSIK
Kindermusik •
www.kindermusikwithlinda.kindermusik.net is all about developing skills in the whole child - ages newborn to 7 years - cognitive, physical, social, emotional, language and musical. For more than 25 years, we have believed music is the best conductor for learning. Kindermusik will be offering a variety of classes, at Rochester Pentecostal Church, starting Sept. 10. For more info or to register, visit their website.
SCHOOL DISTRICT BOND REFERENDUM PUBLIC INFO SESSIONSRochester Public Schools will hold three public-information sessions on Thursday evenings in September to discuss the District’s September 25 bond-referendum election. These sessions will be great opportunities for community members to learn more about the need for a bond referendum to construct a new elementary school in northwest Rochester.
Who: Members of the School Board, including Chair Cris Fischer and Vice Chair Breanna Bly, will conduct the sessions. Superintendent Dr. Romain Dallemand will also be on hand to answer questions.
When: 7 p.m., Thursday, September 6; 7 p.m., Thursday, September 13; 7 p.m., Thursday, September 20.
Where: Board Room, Edison Building, 615 7th Street SW.
For more information on the bond-referendum election on September 25, visit
www.rochester.k12.mn.us or contact the Communications Office at (507) 328-4242.
QUARRY HILL FALL FESTIVALOn September 15 & 16, 11am-5pm, Quarry Hill Nature Center • 281-6114 •
www.qhnc.org • 701 Silver Creek Rd NE
will host the 18th Annual Fall Festival. Canoeing, kayaking, candle rolling, pumpkin coloring, rock climbing, cave tours, bio BINGO, food and treats, and much more! Food & Activity tickets available at the Nature Center throughout the weekend.
TWEITE'S (pumpkin patch)Tweite's • 1821 Frontier Road SW, Byron • 365-8035 •
www.tweite.com have been planting memories and harvesting fun for the past 19 years. We offer quality family enjoyment for the young and young-at-heart. Enjoy 10 acres of amusements including live entertainment, wagon rides, an Enchanted Forest, Western area, over 24,000 square feet of permanent mazes and much more. Many areas are interactive. Check out our remodeled dairy barn loaded with tasty treats like our homemade caramel apples, cotton candy and kettle korn, just to name a few. An easy 8 miles from Rochester. Open weekends September 29-October 28. Saturdays and MEA Days (Oct. 18-19) 10:00-5:30 p.m. Sundays, 12:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. No Tickets sold after 4:30pm. Admission: $8.00 per person (includes tax). New for 2007- six acre corn maze. Check out Tweite's website. Sign up for their newsletter and you'll have a chance to win free tickets to Tweite's.
MIRACLE FIELD FALL BALL LEAGUEThe Parks & Recreation Department Adaptive Recreation Division • 201 4th Street SE #150 • 328-2539
is offering a fall ball league.The Miracle Field Fall Ball program is for persons 5 years and older (with either a physical and/or cognitive disability) who want to play ball! The Miracle Field complex is a solid surface, which allows barrier-free accessi-bility over the entire field. The bases are painted on the field so persons using wheel chairs, crutches, or walkers can easily maneuver the entire field without obstacle! Players ages 13 years and older will play Mondays, Sept. 10-Oct. 1, 6-7p.m. & 7-8p.m. Ages 4-12 will play Tuesdays, Sept.11-Oct. 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Team pictures will be taken on the first night. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your play time (with the exception of the Monday night league in which all players this night should all arrive by 5:45 p.m.). All players will receive a team t-shirt to keep, which will be given out at picture time. There is NO COST for this league so if you like playing ball and haven’t had enough of it yet this summer, call Park and Rec to find out more.
PAIIRPAIIR •
www.rochester.k12.mn.us/school86/paiir • Northrop Education Center 201 8th St NW • 285-8033
has a number of fall offerings. These include: Daytime Dads, Love & Logic, Just You & Me Baby, Toilet Teaching, Baby Talk as well as several age-specific classes. For more information visit PAIIR's website. Don’t let fees be a barrier to PAIIR. They can help.
This fall PAIIR is also offering
Intro to Single Parent Support Group for single parents who are new to the area, to single parenting or to our Single Parent Support Group, PAIIR offers an introduction that covers basic issues and dilemmas faced by custodial single parents. A light supper and child care for preschoolers is included. NO FEE. Parents in this class must have a child age birth to kindergarten enrollment. Class runs Thursdays, Sept. 13 and 20, 5:45 - 7:45 p.m. Call to register.
Also at PAIIR,
Those Great Informational Fridays (TGIF) is held most Fridays. It's a chance to relax, have fun and make new friends! Children will play and snack with our early childhood staff while parents meet for a group discussion with a parent educator. Topics of discussion vary from week to week depending on the wishes and the needs of the group. To reserve a spot for a TGIF class, call PAIIR anytime after 5 PM on Thursday evening and before 8:45 AM the Friday you would like to attend. Please leave your name, the names and birth dates of all children attending class, and a phone number where you may be reached Friday morning. We will call you on Friday morning before 8:45 AM if the class is full. Class is held at Northrop, 9-11a.m.
PAIIR also offers the Extraordinary Newborn drop in class the third Wednesday of each month. A chance to meet other parents of newborns, check your baby's weight, discuss feeding, car seat safety and get your baby's growth and health questions answered. No fee or pre-registration is required. This class is co-taught with a Public Health nurse and a PAIIR parent educator. Held at Northrop, 1-2:30p.m. Call to register.
And then there's the
Parenting During Military Deployment support group. Do you have a family member in the military that is currently on active duty, preparing for deployment or deployed to a foreign country? Join this monthly support and education group to discuss a variety of topics including: dealing with separation, staying connected over the miles, stress management, and the daily ups and downs. A parent/child activity time will be included. Child care for preschoolers will be provided. Families are welcome to come once or every month. NO FEE. Held at Northrop, 6-7:30pm. Call to register.
And finally, on Sept. 27 (Northrop, 4-7pm) stop by
PAIIR's Kick Off to Kindergarten Open House. Is you child entering a Rochester Public School Kindergarten program in the fall of 2008? Find out your options! Meet representatives from Rochester’s Neighborhood and Choice schools, PAIIR, the School Readiness program, Early Childhood Screening, School Age Child Care, Transportation Dept., Community Education, Head Start and other district departments and community resources. Important informational handouts will be available. No registration necessary. Call PAIIR if you have questions.
ROCHESTER AREA FAMILY YThe Y's Fall Brochure is available now. Call ? or visit
www.rochfamy.org for more information on classes such as: youth flag football, youth soccer, small stuff sports (ages 3 1/2 to 5), lifeguard training and recertification, homeschool swim club and lessons, teen strength training, pre-teen circuit challenge, and karate for youth, teens and adults.
The Y also offers
School's Out a full day camp program on non-school days. Children in grades K-6 Program Hours: 9:00am-4:00pm, Extended Care Hours: 6:30am-6:00pm. Have a ton of fun at the Y, while school is out for the day! Games, sports, crafts, swimming, and more. Bring a swimsuit, towel, lunch, and drink each day. An afternoon snack will be provided. Cost: $20/Member, $30/Non-member.
In addition, the Y provides
Parents' Day Out for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Parents can enjoy some "we" time while the Y's qualified Kids Care staff have fun with the kids. Shop, run some errands, exercise, or just rest! Open to Members Only. Visit the Y's website for more info.
ADAPTIVE RECREATIONPark & Recs Adaptive Recreation Fall Program Brochures for youth & adult are out. Registration begins Aug. 20 and will conclude on Sept. 7. There's swim lessons, soccer, a Fall Festival Dance and more. For more information call Karen Meyer at 287-7980.
MASQUE YOUTH THEATREThe Masque Theatre • 14 - 4th Street SW •
www.masque.org • 287-0704
announces its 2007-08 season, “Read the book, see the play, share the wonder.” There will be five mainstage productions including:
• The Big Friendly Giant. Auditions: Sept. 5 and 6 (call for times). Performances: Oct. 19, 20, 21 and 26, 27, 28, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m., Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
Pickle Chiffon Pie. Auditions: Sept. 5 and 6 (call for times). Performances: Dec. 7, 8, 9 and 14, 15, 16, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m., Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
The Emperor's New Clothes. Auditions: Jan. 3 and 4 (call for times). Performances: Feb. 15, 16, 17, and 22, 23, 24, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m., Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
Much Ado About Nothing. Auditions: Feb. 27 and 28 (call for times). Performances: April 18, 19, 20 and 25, 26, 27, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m., Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
Go Do Go! No Auditions. Performances: June 13, 14, 15 and 20, 21, 22, Fridays and Sundays at 3:00 p.m., Saturdays at 7:00 p.m.
Individual Adult Ticket: $12.00. Individual Youth or Senior Ticket: $9.00. Groups of 20 or more: $8.00 per person.
