It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
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Home Care In Farmington, MN
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Dakota City Heritage Village gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Farmington, MN is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Always Best Care comes in to help my dad a shower at night. When the”
Always Best Care comes in to help my dad a shower at night. When the guy came out to interview, he was really good and helpful, but it was just hard to find someone to help with dad been a little bit bigger and heavier. They like the person that they had come out a couple of times. The caregiver is good.
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TESTIMONIALS
“Always Best Care comes in to help my dad a shower at night. When the guy came out to interview, he was really good and helpful, but it was just hard to find someone to help with dad been a little bit bigger and heavier. They like the person that they had come out a couple of times. The caregiver is good.”
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What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Farmington, MN?
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
Personal Care Services
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Berg Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Farmington Steak House or visit Farmington Historic Plantation, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
Age in Place
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
Peace of Mind
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Socialization
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
Personalized Care Plan
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Farmington, MN, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
Affordable Care
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your MN's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Farmington, MN understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
Assisted Living Referral Services
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
Housekeeping
Laundry
Recreational Activities
Social Outings
Emergency Medical Response
Medication Monitoring
Family Visitation
Personal Care
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
Three Rivers Estates Senior Living and Memory Care
BeeHive Homes of Farmington
BeeHive Homes of Farmington
The Bridge at Farmington
St. Michael's Namaste House LLC
Welbrook Senior Living Farmington
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
Taking the First Step with Always Best Care
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
01
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
02
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
03
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Farmington, MN 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Mayo answers adversity, throttles Farmington for homecoming victory
Alex VandenHoutenhttps://www.postbulletin.com/sports/prep/mayo-answers-adversity-throttles-farmington-for-homecoming-victory
ROCHESTER — The Mayo High School football team had its pride hurt last Friday.The Spartans were punched in the mouth against Eagan, allowing nearly 300 yards rushing in a 40-14 loss — the worst home defeat for Mayo since 2017.The film session over the weekend made it even worse.Players not lined up correctly, missed assignments continually flashed across the screen.It left a bad taste in the mouth of the back-to-back Class 5A state-qualifiers."It sucked to get embarrassed that much in front...
ROCHESTER — The Mayo High School football team had its pride hurt last Friday.
The Spartans were punched in the mouth against Eagan, allowing nearly 300 yards rushing in a 40-14 loss — the worst home defeat for Mayo since 2017.
The film session over the weekend made it even worse.
Players not lined up correctly, missed assignments continually flashed across the screen.
It left a bad taste in the mouth of the back-to-back Class 5A state-qualifiers.
"It sucked to get embarrassed that much in front of our entire community against Eagan," senior Carter Holcomb said. "We knew we had to fix something, change some things up. We weren't going to have a repeat of last week."
Mission accomplished.
Behind 163 yards receiving from Holcomb, the Spartans started fast with a 16-point first quarter, before riding out a 46-27 victory over Farmington in front of an estimated homecoming crowd of 5,000 Friday night at Mayo High School.
The win propels the Spartans to 2-1 overall, while dropping Farmington to 0-3.
After last week's performance, it was the exact type of response coach Donny Holcomb was hoping to see.
"We came out of the game gates so fast, it was awesome," coach Holcomb said. "No mistakes, well, a few in that first half.
"It's just huge for the kids, all the hard work they've put in and the lesson how you might not win them all but it's how you get back on the horse and ride afterwards."
Mayo started the game with authority.
The defense collected its first of three consecutive 3-and-outs and the Mayo offense then set the tone with Isaiah Beale and the run game. The Spartans opened the game with seven straight runs, with Beale taking six of them for 49 yards. His last carry of the drive was a 2-yard rushing touchdown — his first of three on the night. With the run game going, the Spartans opened up their next drive with a play-action to Holcomb up top and the standout made a leaping grab over his defender, before walking in for the 42-yard score.
Mayo was driving again, before a tipped pass was corralled by Farmington for the interception.
Yet, the Spartans defense answered the call again.
They would secure a safety on a third-and-long, stuffing the run up the middle to end the first quarter with a 16-0 lead. Farmington did not secure a first down in the frame and finished with negative three yards.
"We were back to just playing football," junior defensive back Calder Sheehan said. "Last week , we were thinking too much. We hadn't really seen that kind of offense before. But now this this week, I felt like we're just felt more comfortable and in our shoes, and playing football. ...
"Last week was kind of an eye-opening experience. We hadn't lost like that in three years."
Beale's second rushing touchdown came two plays after a Joseph Boguslawski strip sack to make it 22-0.
Farmington would get its first first down 3 minutes into the second quarter, before securing their first score on a 19-yard touchdown pass on fourth-and-8. Yet, Mayo answered back again.
Set up by a 59-yard pass from Rees Grimsrud to Lucas Peterson, Spartans would take a 29-6 lead midway through the second quarter.
With a 23-point lead, it looked like the rout was on.
Yet, Farmington and junior quarterback Jonah Ask had other ideas.
Ask delivered a pair of scoring drives, finishing off each with a passing touchdown to give him three for the half and the Tigers just a 29-21 deficit into the half. Ask would finish 16 of 26 for 235 yards and four passing touchdowns.
"Gutsy performance for them to come back from being down," coach Holcomb said. "They completed a couple of really deep passes and we had some breakdown in coverage, but I give them a ton of credit. They played super hard."
The Tigers had all the momentum coming out of the half and a snap going over the head of Grimsrud didn't help things, setting up a third-and-21.
Yet, that's when their standout receiver in Holcomb came through, taking a middle screen pass and bursting for 58-yards to re-energize the Spartans. The First-Team Associated Press All-State performer was fantastic all night long with three plays of over 40-yards.
"He did what he should do," coach Holcomb said. "Along with everybody else. My job is to have confidence in the guys no matter what the down and distance, and to hopefully call a good play and they did a heck of a job with it."
A few plays later, on fourth-and-short, LeBron See-Stadstad took the end-around for the 15-yard rushing touchdown.
The Mayo defense would force a turnover two drives after Beale forced and recovered a fumble. He would make it count, rushing in from 12 yards out two plays later to push the lead back up to three scores at 43-21. Beale would finish with 108 yards and three on 20 carries for his third consecutive 100-yard rushing effort to go along with his three scores.
Farmington would add a late touchdown in the fourth, but the Mayo defense played well to end it. Overall, the Spartans finished with six sacks and three turnovers.
"We just all had the same mentality," Carter Holcomb said. "We all knew that we didn't want to repeat what happened last week."
Ethan Post would cap off the night by nailing a school-record 49-yard field goal.
The Spartans return to action 7 p.m. Thursday on the road against Rosemount — defending Class 6A runner-up.
"I told (the players) after, let's enjoy the weekend and then get ready on Monday for the weight room," coach Holcomb said.
On 4th and short, LeBron See- Stadstad takes it in for the 15 yard score. 36-21 Spartans, 7:51. Great response by Mayo to open the half. pic.twitter.com/DB3ujGMXyl
Final: Mayo 46, Farmington 27. Heck of a response from the Spartans after last weeks defeat. And it's capped off with fireworks. pic.twitter.com/6lKwCDU21E
Byron, 2-0 and ranked No. 5 in the state in Class 4A, will look to extend its winning streak while Winona is looking for its first victory of the season when the teams meet tonight.
Farmington toddler living with never before seen medical condition
Courtney Godfreyhttps://www.fox9.com/news/farmington-toddler-living-with-never-before-seen-medical-condition
MN toddler's never before seen conditionParents of a Farmington toddler born with a rare medical condition are turning to doctors in Boston, after multiple failed surgeries to remove a large growth on the child’s skull.FARMINGTON, Minn. (FOX 9) - Parents of a Farmington toddler born with a rare condition are turning to doctors in Boston, after multiple failed surgeries to remove a large growth on the ch...
MN toddler's never before seen condition
Parents of a Farmington toddler born with a rare medical condition are turning to doctors in Boston, after multiple failed surgeries to remove a large growth on the child’s skull.
FARMINGTON, Minn. (FOX 9) - Parents of a Farmington toddler born with a rare condition are turning to doctors in Boston, after multiple failed surgeries to remove a large growth on the child’s skull.
Haley and Alex McCullen have scoured the internet looking for doctors that can help their daughter Parker. The 18-month-old has a large nevus on her skull, the likes of which have not been documented in any modern medical journal.
"This was such a large and dramatic mass that we weren’t quite sure what it was," said Dr. Sheilagh Maguiness, a pediatric dermatologist with the University of Minnesota. "No one else had seen a similar case. We couldn’t find anybody with experience in this."
Haley had a very healthy pregnancy with no indication that anything was wrong. But at 37 weeks, she requested an ultrasound to ease her nerves. It was that decision that likely saved both of their lives and sent them down a road of uncertainty.
"My doctor called me and said, Haley, I don’t know how to tell you this. Your baby has a large mass on her head, neck or chest. We’re not sure what it is, but you need to see a specialist tomorrow," she recalled. "I think the first thing I said to her was, what are you telling me? She’s not going to make it is she?"
Dr. Maguiness said when Parker was born via emergency C-Section she was certain it was a grave prognosis. Much to the doctor’s surprise, lab results revealed the growth to be benign, describing it as a large mole.
Parker has undergone several surgeries to reduce the size of the growth but because of its proximity to the brain and vagus nerve, complete removal is extremely risky.
"This needs to be done just for the quality of her life," said Alex.
Doctors in Chicago attempted to remove the dangerous and uncomfortable growth when Parker was 5 months old, only to decide the procedure was too risky mid-way through.
Haley continued to search for anyone who could help, which led her to the team at Boston Children’s Hospital. Next month, she’ll undergo a 15-hour plus surgery with hopes of removing the majority of the growth.
"She was put on this earth for a reason, and it's our job as her parents to be her voice and advocate for her," said Haley.
Doctors have advised Alex and Haley that Parker will need to stay in Boston for several months to recover, which means Haley will be taking a leave of absence from work and paying for food and lodging to be near her.
To help ease the burden, their friends started "Pennies for Parker" to raise money. On Sunday, July 30 there will be a fundraiser at Valleywood Golf Course in Apple Valley from 3-6 p.m. Donations are also being accepted on the GoFundMe page.
Anna's hummingbird made a rare visit to a backyard near Farmington
Val Cunninghamhttps://www.startribune.com/annas-hummingbird-made-a-rare-visit-to-a-backyard-near-farmington-minnesota/600327664/
Q: What was with the very rare hummingbird that was hanging out at bird feeders near Farmington in November?A: The bird-watching community was very excited about a hummingbird that dropped into the metro area in late October. And you're right, it is unusual for an Anna's hummingbird, a common resident along the Pacific Coast, to visit Minnesota. The young male, hatched this year, showed up at a residence near Farmington where homeowner Elizabeth Tiller noticed the tiny bird at a nectar feeder at dawn ...
Q: What was with the very rare hummingbird that was hanging out at bird feeders near Farmington in November?
A: The bird-watching community was very excited about a hummingbird that dropped into the metro area in late October. And you're right, it is unusual for an Anna's hummingbird, a common resident along the Pacific Coast, to visit Minnesota. The young male, hatched this year, showed up at a residence near Farmington where homeowner Elizabeth Tiller noticed the tiny bird at a nectar feeder at dawn on Oct. 30. She started taking in her feeders and putting them back just before sunrise, and the tiny bird continued to visit into the middle of November. She alerted the birding community to the unusual visitor, and ended up hosting more than 300 humans eager to see it.
How rare is it for an Anna's to be in Minnesota? The Minnesota Ornithologists' Union lists four other sightings of this species (1991, 1993, 2001, 2006). The Anna's is not a migratory species, like our ruby-throated hummingbird, but is known to explore in the fall, and a few turn up in the eastern U.S. each year, after our ruby-throats are long gone.
They're fairly hardy and the little bird visiting Tiller's feeders seemed in good health in mid-November. It had the good fortune to land in the backyard of someone who has a doctorate in ornithology: Tiller knew what she was seeing and how to provide for the bird. She was very generous in inviting bird watchers on to her property to view the Anna's, even providing chairs and a guest registry. "The bird brought a lot of joy to a lot of people at a time when many need cheering up," she noted.
Retired biologist Carrol Henderson said that Western hummingbirds show up every few years in the fall in the Midwest. The birds may be prospecting for new territories, but for most, he notes, it's a one-way trip.
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Name changes coming
Q: I've heard that many bird names are going to be changed. Won't this be confusing?
A. You heard right, the organization that gives birds their names, the American Ornithological Society, recently announced that they're going to change the names of birds named after people. Examples: Swainson's hawk, Bullock's oriole and Wilson's warbler. They're going to start out with about 80 bird species and eventually will expand the effort to all 152 North American birds with people's names. Many of those birds were named for white naturalists back in the 1800s and 1900s, without regard to names already in use by Native Americans, and those names don't suggest anything about a bird's attributes or where it lives. The name "Wilson's warbler" tells nothing about a perky yellow bird with a small black cap. Its new name will probably be more descriptive of the bird or its preferred habitat. Once the new names are in place, bird identification should make more sense to beginning birders. Find out more on the Audubon and AOS websites.
Effects of warmer winter?
Q: It looks like the coming winter will be warmer and less snowy than usual. Will this be good for birds?
A: The colder it gets, the more birds have to eat to maintain their speedy metabolisms. If it's not so cold outside, birds won't have to consume as many calories each day, and this may mean that more of them survive the cold nights to forage another day. Snow is a good insulator and some birds even burrow into it to keep warm (chickadees have been observed doing this, and ptarmigan). But snow covers up seeds and arthropods that have fallen to the ground, making life harder for juncos and other ground-feeding sparrows.
Who eats boxelder bugs?
Q: We are lucky to have several varieties of woodpeckers visiting our bird feeders daily. These birds are known to eat insects, but show no interest in the boxelder bugs crawling up our windows and siding. Don't they like boxelder bugs?
A: That's an excellent question, but the answer is no, nearly all birds, including woodpeckers, avoid boxelder bugs. The bugs can release a foul-smelling chemical if they feel threatened, and this makes them smell and taste terrible. Because of this, they have few natural predators, although some chickens and ducks will eat the bugs, as do larger insects, in summer.
Boxelder bugs are pretty harmless, but their habit of gathering in large numbers on sunny days on the sides of houses annoys many people. The typical advice is to vacuum them up — or live and let live, I guess. So, all in all, don't look to your local woodpeckers to solve a boxelder bug problem.
Is the eagle cam done?
Q: When is the DNR going to activate its eagle cam again?
A: You may have heard that disaster struck the eagle nest featured on the DNR's webcam last April. A heavy snowfall caused a branch to break and the 20-year-old nest to fall to the ground. The DNR has kept its camera running, however: "The eagle pair still frequents the same territory, even though they no longer have a nest. This year, we will keep the camera "touring" locations in the area where we've observed eagle activity or perching and hope people will tune in to immerse themselves in the wildlife that utilize this natural area," said DNR spokesperson Lori Naumann, adding that the DNR is currently considering two possible new locations for its camera.
Mystery bird
Q: I took a photo of a bird I've never seen before, and wonder if it was blown into our state by recent storms?
A: The photo you sent shows a European starling in its winter coat. These non-native birds look very different in winter, with their speckled-looking plumage and dark beak. By the time breeding season rolls around, those bright feather tips will have worn off and starlings will again show a glossy black coat.
Suet time?
Q: Is this a good time to put out suet cakes?
A: Definitely, your backyard birds will relish this quick source of energy as a hedge against the cold.
St. Paul resident Val Cunningham, who volunteers with the St. Paul Audubon Society and writes about nature for local, regional and national newspapers and magazines, can be reached at [email protected].
Red Wing Woman Severely Hurt After Crashing Into Semi’s Gas Tank
Farmington, MN (KROC-AM News)- A Red Wing woman is reported to be fighting for her life after the SUV she was driving collided with a gas tank on a semi-truck in Dakota County Monday afternoon.Get our free mobile appThe State Patrol responded to the crash at an intersection about three mi...
Farmington, MN (KROC-AM News)- A Red Wing woman is reported to be fighting for her life after the SUV she was driving collided with a gas tank on a semi-truck in Dakota County Monday afternoon.
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The State Patrol responded to the crash at an intersection about three miles south of Farmington. The collision was reported shortly before 12:30 p.m.
The state crash report indicates the SUV, driven by 34-year-old Jessica Nicole Patterson, was traveling east on 240th St. The vehicle went through a stop sign, entered the intersection with Hwy. 3 as a southbound semi was traveling into the intersection.
The semi swerved into the northbound lane but could not avoid the collision as the SUV struck the truck’s passenger-side gas tank. Patterson suffered what the crash report describes as life-threatening injuries.
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A passenger in her vehicle, identified as 28-year-old Alfaro Hisundy, was brought from the scene to a Twin Cities hospital with what are described as non-life-threatening injuries. The truck driver, identified as 37-year-old Christopher Todd Carlson of Fredericktown, MO, was not hurt.
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Both drivers were buckled up and alcohol was not a factor in the crash, the report says. The Dakota County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the SUV-semi crash.
Top 10 Favorite Things at the Olmsted County Fair in Minnesota
It's one of the best weeks in Rochester, Minnesota - the Olmsted County Fair! This year, it is kicking off on Monday, July 24th, 2023 and it is jam-packed full of fun. Before you load the kids up in the car, check out the top 10 things that people in Rochester voted as their favorite at the fair. The full list of fun for the week can be found at the Olmsted County Fair website here.
Cotton Candy
You'd think that this is a top pick just for the kids, but nope. Adults love this sugary treat too and can't wait to buy a fluffy mound for themselves too.
shcherbak volodymyr GettyStock
Carnival Rides!
The rides! A few people always search for the fastest but one of the biggest attractions is the ferris wheel. You can see miles of Rochester from the top!
Jessica Williams
Helicopter Rides
If you've ever wanted to ride in a helicopter, bring some cash and you'll have that opportunity at the fair.
Jessica Williams
Miracle of Birth Center
If you walk through at just the right moment, you may see a miracle happen.
Jessica Williams
The horses
The animal shows and judging are pretty fun to see, especially if you are from "the city".
Jessica Williams
Eating something on a stick
Lots of vendors will be there featuring numerous items on a stick. Pick one and enjoy!
Jessica Williams
Winning prizes!
Goldfish, stuffed animals...the list of prizes that your child could be taking home really is endless.
Aksakalko GettyStock
Beer garden
If you are looking for someone, they might be in here.
Jessica Williams
Seeing all of the 4H projects!
So many hours were spent by kids and adults on each project that you can see at the fair. Take some time to walk around and see all of the displays and animals at the fair. If you've got questions about 4-H, I'm sure one of the kids or parents there would be happy to answer those for you too.
Creative_Outlet GettyStock
Demo derby
Some great concerts are happening at the grandstand but one of the favorite events is the demo derby. Kids of all ages (and adults!) love to sit in the stands and watch destruction happen.
What you need to know: 2023 Dakota County education levy referendums
Many Dakota County voters will be asked on Nov. 7 to consider giving more money to public schools.The Farmington, Hastings, Inver Grove Heights, Lakeville and West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan school districts are asking for additional funding.Here’s a rundown of what will be on the ballot next month, why the funds are needed and, if passed, how the levy referendums could impac...
Many Dakota County voters will be asked on Nov. 7 to consider giving more money to public schools.
The Farmington, Hastings, Inver Grove Heights, Lakeville and West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan school districts are asking for additional funding.
Here’s a rundown of what will be on the ballot next month, why the funds are needed and, if passed, how the levy referendums could impact homeowners.
Farmington
Farmington Area Public Schools is proposing to revoke the district’s existing operating levy and replace it with a new one following a budget reduction for the 2023-24 school year and a projected deficit of $3.5 million for the 2024-25 school year.
The district will ask voters to consider replacing the current operating levy of $677 per student to $1,239.92 per student for taxes payable in 2024, which will provide $9 million annually for the first three years, with $5 million coming from the current levy and $4 million from the new levy. The question then asks voters to approve an additional $562.95 per student for taxes payable in 2027, which will provide an additional $4 million annually for the remaining seven years of the new levy, according to the district.
The funds from the new levy would help the district to maintain its programs and services, offset the costs of new literacy and learner support initiatives required by the state and stabilize funding.
If approved, property taxes for district residents with an average-priced home of $350,000 will increase by about $13.25 a month for the first three years, according to the district, and then be reduced by about $14.83 per month for the remaining seven years of the new levy because of previous building bonds that will be paid off in 2024-25 and 2027-28.
Hastings Public Schools is asking voters to consider a 10-year capital project levy, also known as the technology levy.
The technology levy would raise $2 million annually for student and staff devices, reliable internet access, technology infrastructure, software and licenses, building and grounds security and cybersecurity.
If approved, the levy will cost homeowners with an average-priced home of $275,000 about $100 annually, or $8 a month, according to the district.
For more information, voters can attend an informational session at 6 p.m. Oct. 23 at Hastings Middle School or visit http://pipr.es/ZGijpvD.
Inver Grove Heights
Voters in the Inver Grove Heights Schools district will be asked two questions on the ballot next month.
Question 1 asks voters to consider an operating levy that would provide an increase of $410 per student to maintain class sizes, offer K-8 world language and add courses that would allow students to explore career opportunities.
Question 2, which is contingent on the passage of Question 1, asks voters to consider providing an additional $110 per student for safety and mental health support including training for teachers.
If both operating levies are passed, property taxes will increase by about $11.67 per month based on the area’s average home price of $313,000, according to the district.
Voters in the Lakeville Area Schools district will be asked about two operating levies on this year’s ballot.
Question 1 asks voters to increase the general education revenue by $100 per student in order to staff and operate the district’s new elementary school, Highview Elementary, which is projected to open next fall at 18601 Highview Ave.
According to the district, K-12 enrollment is projected to grow more than 30 percent in the next decade with elementary enrollment projected to grow more than 17 percent, around 900 students, over the next five years.
If approved, the levy posed in Question 1 would add roughly $50 annually in property taxes based on an average home value of $465,000 for the area.
Question 2, which is contingent on the passage of Question 1, asks voters to approve a general education increase of $250 per student to expand K-12 mental health, behavioral and academic support and attract and retain highly qualified staff.
If both questions are approved, voters can expect a property tax increase of about $174 annually, or around $15 a month, for the average home value of $465,000, according to the district.
Voters in the West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan Area school district will be asked two questions on the November ballot.
Question 1 asks voters to approve an operating levy increase of $731 per student to maintain class sizes and avoid budget cuts to programming and staff.
For elementary school, class sizes currently are about 23.5 students on average per classroom. For middle school, they are 28 on average per classroom and for high school, they are 34.5 on average per classroom, the Pioneer Press elections team reported.
If approved, the additional levy would increase annual property taxes by $153, or $12.75 a month, for the average-priced house of $350,000 in the district, according to district officials.
Question 2 asks voters to renew the school district’s existing capital levy, which is set to expire in 2025. The levy is used to fund student and staff devices, internet access and fiber connectivity, telecommunications, technology infrastructure, software licenses, training and the salaries of technology staff.
The current capital project levy, which was approved in 2014, raises some $2.3 million a year for the district’s technology needs and adds $75 in taxes to an average-priced house of $350,000 in the district. If Question 2 is approved, it would not increase taxes, according to the district.
For more information about the ballot questions, voters can attend a community information meeting at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at Two Rivers High School or go to https://www.isd197.org/vote2023.
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