South news briefs: Scott County seeks stories of military families

Scott County is looking for correspondence from military families as part of a tribute to those families planned for the State Capitol grounds.

The Military Family Tribune, described by organizers as the first of its kind nationally, is designed to honor "those who have made, and continue to make, sacrifices here at home."

One element is a Veteran Family Walkway and Story Stones. A website at www.militaryfamilytribute.org contains more details and artist's renderings.

The group behind the site is working with county-based Veterans Service Offices to collect correspondence from military families to to help create the Story Stones.

Eighty-seven stones will represent one county each.

Excerpts from correspondence between military members and their family will be etched onto these stones.

Scott County's Veterans Service Office is seeking such material, from the Civil War to the present. It need not stem from wartime itself. Letters, telegrams, e-mails, even videos, are welcome.

Jerry Brua, Director, Scott County Veterans Service Office, 200 West Fourth Avenue, Shakopee, 55379, or e-mail jbrua@co.scott.mn.us

The dedication of the tribute is set for June 13, 2015, on the grounds of the Minnesota Capitol.

For more information, call the county at 952- 496-8175.

A military or veteran family member is defined as "a spouse, significant other, child, parent, grandparent, sibling, or any other person a soldier defines as family."

Want some advice from a pro on how to keep those family momentoes in great shape?

On October 30, from 6:30-8:00 p.m., there's a free session on how to care for things like photos, quilts, dishes, clothing, and jewelry, "so they last for the next generation."

The expert in charge is Minnesota Historical Society Chief Outreach Conservator, Bob Herskovitz.

Bring photos and memorabilia; he will show you how to keep them museum-quality.

The Scott County Historical Society is at 235 Fuller Street South, Shakopee, and www.scottcountyhistory.org,

Grand opening ceremonies were held this week for the new Hwy. 169/County Road 69 interchange in Scott County.

The project has been one of a number of major transportation undertakings lately in the northwest corner of Scott County.

The gathering was to be emcee'd by Jon Ulrich, the only County Board member up for re-election this year.

Safe trick-or-treating will be offered on Oct. 31 at Prior Lake City Hall.

Kids are encouraged to come in costume, and bags will be provided.

Each department will have a treat or toy for the kids between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Life in 'Eagle Creek': On November 2, from 12:30-4 p.m., there's a chance for an immersive experience at The Landing, the Minnesota River Heritage Park, Shakopee.

Organizers say: "Attend school, help with house and farm chores, and participate in a village social. Work in the gardens before enjoying a snack. Dress as a pioneer or wear comfortable outdoor clothes."

The cost is $30; reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve, using activity number 438407-41. Open to aged five and up.

$3 Tour Days: Discounted guided tour on November 2, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at The Landing. Join a guided tour. Enter through the Visitor Center (Main Entrance). Walking distance is 1.5 miles round trip. Call 763-694-7784 for tour schedule. Cost is $3; children under 2 are free

Geocaching for S'mores: Learn geocaching basics and search for delicious treasure on November 7, from 1-3 p.m. at Cleary Lake Regional Park, Prior Lake.

Open to all ages but children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

Walk When the Moon is Full: Signs and sounds of fall with a hike under the full moon, on November 6 from 5-6:30 p.m., at Cleary Lake.

Hot chocolate is served. Cost is $5; reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 to reserve: reference activity number 424506-001. Open to all ages.

Staff reports