Biz briefs: FamilyMeans, Center for Grief, Loss and Transition merge

Stillwater-based Family- Means and the Center for Grief, Loss & Transition in St. Paul have become a single organization, officials from the two agencies announced last week.

Under terms of the merger, FamilyMeans took over the Center for Grief, Loss & Transition's outpatient mental health programs and will offer them at 1129-1133 Grand Av. in St. Paul. FamilyMeans also will offer counseling, marriage and family therapy, child and adolescent counseling, collaborative divorce services, and help for depression grief and loss at its main offices at 1875 Northwestern Av.

"This is an exciting time for both of our agencies as we combine our wealth of knowledge and ability to provide even more specialized services to our clients and the community," said Arba-Della Beck, FamilyMeans' president.

FamilyMeans also offers financial and bankruptcy services and employee assistance and youth enrichment programs.

Japa Salon moves to Valley Ridge Mall After seven years on Main Street in downtown Stillwater, Japa Salon owners Steph and Joe Beedle have moved operations to the Valley Ridge Mall off Hwy. 36, at 1340 W. Frontage Road.

"The new location alleviates our clients' problems with traffic, parking and provides a great opportunity for us to serve our clients better," Steph Beedle said.

The move also opens up the possibility of extending hours and adding additional days. Japa is currently closed on Sundays and Mondays.

CherryBerry is looking for workers CherryBerry, the fast-growing create-your-own frozen yogurt bar chain, will soon have a franchise in Stillwater. Owners are currently accepting employment applications and expect to open the store around April 27 at 125 S. Main St.

At CherryBerry, customers can build their own treats by mixing and matching from the 30 to 50 rotating fat-free flavors. They simply grab a cup and start mixing and add the toppings of their choice. Prices are determined by weight.

Businesses are focus at Community Expo People who stop by the Woodbury Community Expo on Saturday can walk away with some money. The Cash Grab, in which participants can step into a booth for a short time and grab as many dollar bills as possible, is among the new attractions.

The main purpose is to showcase more than 150 businesses that will have booths at Bielenberg Sports Center. A number of celebrities, including meteorologists Chris Shaffer from WCCO-TV and Patrick Hammer from KSTP-TV, and Ronald McDonald will make appearances.

Entertainment will include performances by New Life Academy Choir, Bruce the Bug Guy, the University of Minnesota Raptor Center, Mad Science of Minnesota and Valee de Croix. Balloon sculptors, face-painters and a jump tent will be available for kids.

TIM HARLOW