The 2009-10 Link Leaders have started their trainings with May Development Days. Mandatory trainings are Aug. 25 and 26 from 3 to 8 p.m. at ALHS. Freshman orientation will be Sept. 3.

Students look at works of famous artists

During this past quarter, eighth-graders at Southwest Middle School have looked at famous artists such as Chuck Close, Andy Warhol and Wayne Thiebaud. They have created self-portraits, three-dimensional printmaking projects and mouth-watering clay desserts. The last unit is on Frank Lloyd Wright’s geometric Prairie-Style stained-glass windows.

On Wednesday, eighth-graders will see guest artist, Jim Pichner, demonstrate the process of stained glass in art class. This visit is made possible through a grant from the Perpich Center for Arts Education. Pichner graduated from the University of Minnesota and began doing stained glass as a hobby in 1989. After retiring from working at Hormel Foods Corporation for 37 years, Pichner bought Van’s Stained Glass in Austin and moved it to Faribault where he currently works. Besides working in his stained glass studio, Pichner teaches through community education programs in Austin, Albert Lea, Owatonna and Faribault through the Paradise Art Center.

Hawthorne students grateful for donations

Hawthorne Elementary School would like to thank Kwik Trip and Culligan Water for the donations of bananas and bottled water to hand out during our “Walk To School” event, which was held on May 13. The event was very successful, even with the light rain. Hopefully students and parents will be encouraged to continue walking to school. A special thank you goes to Kristin Heinz for coordinating this event.