South news briefs: Northfield hospital names new CEO

Carrying more than 13 years of experience as a hospital administrator, Steve Underdahl has been named president and CEO of Northfield Hospital & Clinics (NH&C).

The organization's board of directors has offered Underdahl the position beginning June 11.

His most recent experience was as vice president of operations at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin. He also served as administrator for the Albert Lea hospital. In addition to his leadership roles, he has filled health care management responsibilities throughout his career.

Underdahl holds a master's degree in organizational leadership from Bethel College. His background includes work in chemical dependency treatment.

Gina Franklin, board of directors chairwoman and a member of the search committee, said in a news release that Underdahl "has a full understanding of both rural and metro health care markets." He has managed both hospital and clinic operations throughout his career.

The family of a 3-year-old girl has planned a benefit to raise funds for making their home wheelchair accessible.

Scarlet Wagner was diagnosed with a genetic mutation, Schinzel-Giedion syndrome, which has recently confined her to a wheelchair.

The event will feature a silent auction, raffle, food, cash bar and vendors.

To make a donation outside of the benefit, send payments to the Scarlet Amelie Wagner Benefit Fund, mailed to Wings Financial, 14985 Glazier Av., Suite 100, Apple Valley, MN 55124, care of Scarlet Amelie Wagner Benefit Fund, account 0700025886.

For questions, contact Jennifer Wagner at faust.jen nifer@gmail.com or 952-210-4083.

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community last week donated nearly 3,000 one-liter bottles of drinking water to help in the aftermath of the Moore, Okla., tornado.

The donation was part of a radio station's drive and was shipped by truck last Thursday.

Shakopee's riverfront Huber Park Performance Series starts on Thursday and offers free family entertainment all summer.

Concerts and other activities usually begin at 7 p.m. at the park, located near the historic downtown at 150 Fillmore St. N.

The Shakopee Senior High Wind Ensemble is featured on opening night, with June attractions including the Splatter Sisters, the South of the River Community Band, the Raptor Center Outreach Program and a June 27 Battle of the Bands.

At sunset on some Saturdays, there are outdoor family Movies in the Park. Dates are the Saturdays of June 15, July 6 and Aug. 24, and one Wednesday, July 31. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. The Shakopee Community Center is the venue in case of bad weather.

To learn more, go to www.ci.shakopee.mn.us/parks_events.cfm or call the recreation hot line at 952-233-9502 for weather updates.

The DFL-dominated council is drawing up a new set of guidelines for transit and other long-range plans, and it is offering a series of round-table discussions with its top officials and staff.

With more momentum developing in the inner metro, through population gains and other signs, outer suburban officials are concerned that their needs be kept in mind.

The council's planning focuses on things like water supply, land use, transportation and affordable housing.

The Scott County event is Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the regional training facility, 17706 Valley View Drive in Jordan.

A contact person for Scott County residents is public affairs coordinator Lisa Kohner. She can be reached at 952-496-8780 or lkohner@co.scott.mn.us.