August 2024

LIBRARY NEWS

Discover Nature's Wonders

Join renowned naturalist and former Stillwater Area High School teacher, Andy Weaver, for an unforgettable exploration of the St. Croix River Valley. As a licensed falconer who created the school's Raptor Propagation Lab, Mr. Weaver brings a unique blend of knowledge and passion to his captivating programs.

Known for his engaging storytelling and hands-on approach, Mr. Weaver was a 2017 Minnesota Teacher of the Year nominee. Now, as Naturalist-in-Residence at Stillwater and Bayport public libraries, he invites children (ages 8+) and their families to discover the magic of the local ecosystem.

From mid-August to early October, delve into a world of wonder with programs on stream biology, prairie ecology, Minnesota birds, beekeeping, and the fascinating story of Minnesota raptors, including the peregrine falcon. Designed for children ages 8 and older, children must have an accompanying adult. Each program is offered twice with a limit of 25 attendees per class. Some programs may take place outdoors, weather permitting.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature and learn from a true expert!

Stream Biology
Thursday, August 15, 10 AM – Brown’s Creek
Saturday, August 17, 10 AM – Brown’s Creek

Prairie Ecology
Thursday, September 5, 4 PM – Valley View Park
Saturday, September 7, 10 AM – Valley View Park

Minnesota Birds
Thursday, September 12, 4 PM – Valley View Park
Saturday, September 14, 10 AM – Valley View Park

Beekeeping (both sessions offered on a Thursday)
Thursday, September 19, 4 PM – Stillwater Public Library
Thursday, September 26, 4 PM – Lakeside Park

Falconry and the Peregrine Falcon Story
Thursday, October 3, 4 PM – Bayport Public Library
Saturday, October 5, 10:15 AM – Stillwater Public Library

We’re grateful for the Stillwater Public Library Foundation which secured a grant from the Hugh J. Andersen Foundation to fund the Naturalist-in-Residence program.

FROM OUR ARCHIVES

Stillwater Olympic Connections

We love the Olympic Games! The stories, the nail-biting competition, the colorful commentary – all of it! Local connections engage us even more so we’re delighted that Stillwater has had some of its own Summer Olympic hopefuls. We didn't have to go very far back into the archives to find a summer Olympian and two more alumni who were so close to making it!

Ben Blankenship, a 2007 graduate, was a standout cross-country and track competitor in high school and college. Blankenship captured the Minnesota State AA 1600-meter champion in both his junior and senior years. He continued his athletic achievements at the University of Minnesota, becoming the first Golden Gopher to break a 4-minute mile. Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, Blankenship's determination led him to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil, where he finished 8th in the 1500-meter race. Aside from his notable running accomplishments, he was voted into the “top 3 people we wanted to see streak” his senior year in high school.

Luke Watson, or “Luscious Watts” as he was called in his class of 1998 Kabekonian yearbook, was another Pony cross-country and track standout. Watson was the first Pony runner to break a 4-minute mile. He led the cross-country team to its third state title while winning the individual title. A highly decorated runner, Watson qualified for multiple World Championships and narrowly missed the 2004 Olympic team, finishing 14th in the 5000-meter run. His senior class voted him “Most likely to appear on a Wheaties box”.

Tanya Schuh, a member of the class of 1993, shined in the pool as a Pony and Gopher swimmer. She clinched the state title in the 100-yard butterfly her senior year. At the University of Minnesota, she was named Big Ten Swimmer of the Year. Holding dual citizenship with the United States and Brazil, Schuh qualified for the Brazilian Olympic team in the 100-yard butterfly for the 1996 Atlanta Games. Unfortunately, a rule change by the team dashed her Olympic dream. Undeterred, Schuh continued to represent Brazil on the national swimming team for five years.

You can find these photos and more interesting information about your favorite Stillwater Area High School grads in the 1916-2024 Kabekonian yearbooks, available for viewing in the St. Croix Collection Room during library hours.

UPCOMING EVENTS

FELINE-FOCUSED READS

In honor of International Cat Day (coming up on August 8), we're highlighting some reads that feature our feline friends. You might also be lucky enough to find some of these on display on the cart near the Information Desk on the lower level.

TERRACE UPDATE

Terrace Repair Project

The library's terrace will undergo necessary repairs beginning in September. We anticipate the project will take about 8 weeks, weather permitting. The tentative start date is September 3.

The terrace's underlying structure, known as an inverted roof, is in need of attention. Its waterproof membrane, crucial for protecting the library's valuable collections and furnishings below, is nearing the end of its lifespan. Without repair, water damage and mold growth could occur. Additionally, uneven walking surfaces have become a safety concern.

To address these issues, the project will upgrade the terrace's components with long-lasting, more robust materials. Once complete, the terrace will have an estimated lifespan of at least 40 years and provide a safe, level surface for everyone to enjoy.

Please note: The terrace will be closed to the public during construction for safety reasons. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We look forward to reopening this beautiful outdoor space upon completion.

Specific dates of closure and additional details about the project will be posted on the library's website as available at library.stillwatermn.gov/terrace-repair-project/.