South news briefs: Group to discuss vet suicide prevention in Prior Lake

Star Tribune

Source: Star Tribune
Published: Tuesday 11 June, 2013

Suicide by military veterans will be the topic of discussion when a coalition of south-metro churches and human-service organizations meets on Thursday.

The Families and Individuals Sharing Hope (FISH) meeting, at 9:30 a.m. at Fish Lake Immanuel Lutheran Church in Prior Lake, will include a presentation from Lyaman McPherson, a retired Gulf War veteran who has developed a model for how communities can step up to show support and aid in prevention.

“Suicide rates have continued to increase every year with many families and friends being left to simply ask why,” McPherson said. “There is no one answer. Each individual is just that — a unique individual with differing life experiences, pains, and needs.”

Families, survivors, service providers and faith communities all are welcome, according to FISH Executive Director Beth Loechler.

The church is at 20200 Fairlawn Av., Prior Lake. Space is limited, so please RSVP to fish@fishgroup.net or 952-440-3600.

SAVAGE

Art wall makes debut

A wall at Savage City Hall will become home to a rotating art exhibit featuring works by local artists and high school students.

The Savage Art Wall has made its debut with the nature photography of Savage resident Darrell Tangen, whose work will be on display through June 28.

The exhibits, in the main lobby of City Hall, are open during normal city hall hours and are free to the public. Residents interested in sharing their artwork with others can contact Sharon Allen at 952-388-7730 or savageartscouncil@gmail.com. The art wall is a collaborative effort between the Savage Arts Council and the city of Savage.

Tangen is the founder of Backroad Images and has been an art instructor for 25 years. He is actively involved in the local arts community, including the spring Savage Juried Art Show and Competition.

SHAKOPEE

Police roll out bike patrol for the summer

A handful of Shakopee police officers will be back on two wheels this summer, patrolling community events and working the beat on bicycles.

The bike patrol breaks down the barriers to approaching a police officer, said Sgt. Jason Arras; an officer on a bicycle is a lot more approachable than one in a squad car, the theory goes.

Bikes are also more versatile than squad cars, especially during crowded events such as the city’s Derby Days festival. This year, officers also plan to use the bikes at Canterbury Park during concerts and racetrack events.

South news briefs: Group to discuss vet suicide prevention in Prior Lake

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