patching...
Update: The next chapter of your community's story begins with a single voice. Yours. Blog on Patch. »
Welcome back, Patch Blogger!

Valentine's Day 2012

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Parents Talk

Parents Talk: Ban Candy on Valentine's Day?

Some schools are keeping sweets out of the classroom.

What's Valentine's Day without candy? Some kids are finding out, as schools extend bans on classroom sweets to holiday celebrations out of concern for students' health. A Massachusetts school's decision to keep candy out has drawn national and international attention and criticism, as well as praise. Parents in Minneapolis, where a policy to promote better student health started last year, see messages like: "Students can bring valentines, but as you are shopping for valentines, please DO NOT purchase valentines with candy or send candy to school for the party." Our 11-year-old broke the news to me a few days ago: The general ban on sugary snacks at her school applies to Valentine's Day. "It's ridiculous," she said. "Fruit snacks are about…

Comment_arrow

Penna1965

11:50 am on Monday, February 27, 2012

Margaret, high fructose corn syrup is just as bad as beet sugar or cane sugar. Sugar is sugar no matter the source. Limiting the sugar in everything is key. Moderation, exercise and diet.   more ›

If Valentine's Day Makes You Yawn, Try Something Different

Alternatives for those who are single or who hate the cards-and-candy routine.

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, people fall into two groups: The lovesick, and those who are, well, sick of the whole thing. Maybe you’re romantically challenged and would rather not be reminded of it. Or, maybe, you’re one of those people who thinks the self-determined Day of Romance has devolved into so much over-the-top pomp and circumstance. Regardless, there are plenty of you out there. The good news: If this year’s V-Day will be a decidedly solo affair, Fridley Patch has put together a list of alternatives for you on what’s become one of our country’s most commercialized holidays: 1. LifeTime Fitness - Fridley While couples are filling their faces and smiling smugly at each other, you’re getting a head start on your beach body. The…

Monday, February 13, 2012

PHOTOS: Valentines Dances in Fridley

Nearly 400 danced at schools and community center events.

Kids turned out for Valentine's dances at the Fridley Public School's two elementary schools and after school at The Zone at the Fridley Community Center. Hayes Elementary had 61 attend, while Stevenson Elementary had 167 and The Zone had 171, according to Sue Johnson at the City of Fridley Parks and Recreation Department. See more photos from the Hayes dance at the Parks & Rec Facebook page. Do you have photos or videos from Valentine's events you'd like to share? Upload them to this post!

On-screen Romance, Minnesota Style

The North Star State has produced more than its share of heartthrobs.

It’s nearly the fourteenth of February and Eternal Love approacheth on gossamer wings gilded by advertising dollars. To help you and your beloved celebrate, Patch has prepared a short list of movie recommendations starring actors and actresses born in the land by the shores of Gitche Gumee. The Virgin Suicides Edward Scissorhands Swingers

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Valentine Potluck Dinner and Bingo Is Thursday at Fridley History Center

A Historical Society is hosting a fun get-together open to all.

Thursday evening is the Valentine Potluck Dinner at the Fridley History Center, 611 Mississippi St. NE. Enjoy good food and good company at the former school house that's now home to the Fridley Historical Society. If you can, bring a dish to share—but it's not required because there is always enough for everyone. After dinner, stay for Bingo—with prizes! Please consider bringing something to donate for a prize. A treasure you've forgotten about at the back of a closet is perfect. All are welcome and the event is free. If you can't go Thursday night, consider stopping by for the History Center's regular open house on Saturday from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and find out about the history of your city. For more information, call 763-371-0120. Shown …

Got a Hot Tip?