West metro town briefs

Hailed as a hero Matt Sanford of Orono received a Volvo for Life Award last week during a ceremony in New York City. The awards -- Sanford was one of three winners nationally -- recognize "heroes" from around the country.

Sanford, who was paralyzed in a car accident when he was 13, has written about the mind-body connection and his work as a yoga instructor. He will receive a $100,000 contribution to the charity of his choice.

Sanford, 42, is also a motivational speaker and launched Mind Body Solutions in 2001, offering programs at workplaces, community centers and his studio in Minnetonka.

For additional information about Sanford and his work, go to www.mindbodysolutions.org.

Revamped library unveiled Library users can celebrate the Westonka Library's new look at an event Saturday. It's the library's first renovation since it opened in 1972.

Improvements include new carpet, 10 additional public computers, better-defined areas, and new furniture and furnishings. The library, located at 2079 Commerce Blvd. in Mound, remained open throughout the $126,600 renovation.

The celebration will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and feature youth activities, including a video game tournament at 2 p.m. For more information, call 952-847-6175 or go to www.hclib.org.

Free confidential advice will be available on the foreclosure process, homeowners' rights and long-term housing solutions. No appointments are needed to talk with mortgage lenders or nonprofit foreclosure specialists.

The open house is 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Brooklyn Junior High, 7377 Noble Av. N., in the north gym. For more information, call the Minnesota Home Ownership Center at 651-659-9336.

Information for seniors The Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council is holding its 20th annual senior forum from 8:30 a.m. to noon April 2. There will be speakers on issues from vision loss to Alzheimer's and Medicare. People age 55 and older are invited to attend the free event, but registration is preferred.

The forum will be held at the Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center, 5600 85th Av. N. For more information or to register, call Anita Perkins at 763-503-2520 or e-mail her at anita@nwhhsc.org.

Reserve a patch of green Reservations are being accepted by Carver County Parks for Baylor Regional Park and shelter reservations for Baylor, Lake Minnewashta and Lake Waconia Regional Parks.

The parks also have seven picnic shelters and a community room that can be reserved. Picnic shelters can accommodate groups of up to 150. Rates are from $40 to $250.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 952-466-5250.