World Heritage looking for community reps
World Heritage International Student Exchange Program is seeking representatives to work with volunteer host families and international exchange students in your community. WH provides academic-year and semester-exchange programs in the United States for high school students around the world. Students are 15-18 years of age, have passed a series of academic and character requirements, and are awaiting an opportunity to embark on their American adventure. Local representatives also have the opportunity to support American high school students in their journey abroad. For more information, call 800-888-9040, go online at whhosts.com or email info@world-heritage.org.
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Secretary of State encourages all to vote this November
This is a big election year. In the fall, Minnesotans will elect their U.S. House representatives, all state representatives and senators, many local and county officials, vote on a constitutional amendment and elect the next U.S. president. Until recently, Minnesota led the nation in voter turnout, but in 2014 we slipped to number six. That’s why I’ve challenged the people of Minnesota to return our state to number one. To help with this effort, my office is conducting nonpartisan voter outreach by partnering with businesses and organizations across the state. To make your participation as easy as possible, my office has produced a range of resources with recommendations as to their best use. You’ll find suggested employee communications, voter guides, social media postings, videos, and other resources available at mnvotes.org. Please share these materials to improve communications with employees, customers and other audiences, as appropriate. If you have questions about the materials, please don’t hesitate to contact Secretary of State Dennis Smith at 651-201-1356 or dennis.smith@state.mn.us.
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Counties to conduct survey on health
Within a week, almost 9,000 randomly selected households in Benton and Stearns counties will receive in the mail the Central Minnesota Community Health Survey. This survey asks important questions about the respondents’ health and wellness in their community. The answers provide vital information to public health departments, area hospitals and others who will use the data to identify and prioritize community health needs and areas of concern, then develop strategies and action plans to address those needs and develop healthier communities. It will help these health organizations target resources more effectively and to monitor trends, whether good or bad, over time. The survey asks questions about access to health care, nutrition, physical activity, financial stress, tobacco and drug use, driving behaviors, bullying and other social, physical and mental health-related issues. For more information, visit co.stearns.mn.us.
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St. Cloud Hospital to host behind-the-scenes tour
Take a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the St. Cloud Hospital operating rooms from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10. Explore surgical careers and learn about the latest surgery procedures and technology. The evening includes hands-on children’s activities and refreshments. Tours begin in the new Surgery Entrance at St. Cloud Hospital. Park in the South Ramp. Take the South Ramp Elevator to Floor A. The event is free and no RSVP is needed. Come and go as you please. Call 320-251-2700, ext. 54468, with questions.
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Sisters of the Order to participate in Give to the Max
The Sisters of the Order of St. Benedict will once again be participating in Give to the Max, Thursday, Nov. 17. The goal of Give to the Max is to maximize charitable efforts in the state of Minnesota. Watch for updates about ministries, goals and prizes.
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DNR to issue specialty license plates
A specialty license plate benefiting Minnesota state parks and trails will be available starting Thursday, Dec. 1, at Driver and Vehicle Services offices statewide. The plates provide their owners with unlimited access to all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas for the year, replacing the need for a vehicle permit (a $25 value). Proceeds from license-plate sales will benefit Minnesota state parks and trails. The cost of the new plates will start at $60, plus tax. This total includes a one-time $10 fee for the plate itself and a minimum $50 contribution. For more information, visit www.mndnr.gov/plates or contact the DNR Information Center at info.dnr@state.mn.us or 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
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Jingle Bell 5K and 1K Family Fun Run Will Again Support Local Toys for Tots
On the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Nov. 19, St. Cloud Orthopedics will host the 19th annual Jingle Bell Run. Registration runs through race day for both the 5K and the 1K Family Fun Run. The event, which raises money and collects holiday gifts for the Central Minnesota Toys for Tots organization, is expected to draw about 500 participants. Participants can register online through race day on Nov. 19, but early registration, which ensures participants receive an event T-shirt, ends on Nov. 6. The 1K Family Fun Run for all ages begins at 8:45 a.m., followed by the 5K run/walk at 9:00 a.m. Participants can get a discounted registration fee by donating a new, unwrapped toy for kids 18 and younger. For more details, visit StCloudOrthopedics.com/jingle-bell-run or call them at 320.202.5525. Register online at jinglebellrun.itsyourrace.com.
