1/14/2011 Mr. Almquist's 5th grade class, Challenger Elementary, Thief River Falls, MN

On Friday, January 14, 2011, I had the opportunity to visit with Mr. Almquist's class at Challenger Elementary School in Thief River Falls, MN.  The class was very receptive to learning about the Miss Red River Valley Outstanding Teen Program, The Children's Miracle Network, and the Minnesota State Parks and Trails.  When we were finished discussing the State Parks, I awarded everyone in the room a "Junior Explorer" sticker to encourage them to get out and "Explore Your Backyard:  Visit Your Minnesota State Parks and Trails!"  We talked about:

1)  The Miss Red River Valley Outstanding Teen Program is part of the Miss America program and is designed to help teens facilitate development of leadership skills by promoting scholastic achievement, creative accomplishment, healthy living, and community involvement.

2)  I also promote the importance of teens visiting the Minnesota State Parks and Trails because it helps in all of the areas listed above.  When we visit State Parks, we learn about our State's history, geological science, culture, and more!  We also have the opportunity to explore the outdoors by hiking, biking, swimming, snow shoeing, and more!  Don't forget to tell your parents that with the tough economy, our State Parks make for great "stay-cations" since there is a State Park within 50 miles of every Minnesotan and a day pass for one park only costs $5 while the annual passes cost only $25 and get you into every Minnesota State Park for a full year!  That's a bargain!

 3)  The State Parks offer lots of diversity, from Soudan Underground Mine's only underground state park in the USA, to double waterfalls at Minneopa.  From camping in a tee-pee at Upper Sioux Agency to a ghost town and cave at Forestville Mystery Cave!  Explore Your Backyard:  Visit your Minnesota State Parks and Trails!

4)  While at the parks, there are lots of things to do-  besides what I mentioned above, one of my favorites is Geocaching.  Most state parks offer this activity and many even have GPS units available for use!  How cool is that?

5)  Another favorite activity is the Junior Naturalist programs.  All you have to do is go to the Ranger Station and ask for a junior naturalist activity book.  Complete the activities in the book and return it for a junior naturalist badge!  Once you earn a badge from each of the park systems regions, you also receive an Expert Junior Naturalist Badge!  This is impressive to your teachers.

I enjoyed our visit!  I hope to see you again!  In the meantime, get out there and "Explore Your Backyard:  Visit Your Minnesota State Parks and Trails!"