School News...

On Friday, November 3, there is early dismissal for students at 12:25.  Kindergarten PM is in session but there are NO CLASSES for kindergarten AM.

The PTO general meeting is at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday,      November 14, in the cafeteria.  The 2000-2001 student      directories will be available at the PTO meeting.  There will be a $50.00 tuition credit drawing.  YOU MUST BE      PRESENT TO WIN.

ONE TO ONE
The "One to One" program at St. John's helps children that are struggling with reading and/or math.  We use games and activities in a one to one setting that help strengthen the area the child is having difficulty with.  This program is run by volunteers, you don't have to be a teacher to participate.  What it takes is a desire to help children 60 minutes one day a week.  We provide directions and a room full of games and ideas.  You will work with the same children every week at the same time of day.  We match up your available time to the children schedules.
We are greatly in need of volunteers to make this program work.  Please contact Joan Grieman @651-633-6707 or Jackie Bilski @763-571-5609.

Bulletin Board...

VOLUNTEER TUTOR NEEDED
A volunteer tutor is needed to teach reading and spelling to an adult , native English-speaking male living in New Brighton area.  The learner has a physical disability that prevents him from attending class.  If anyone is interested in this volunteer opportunity, please contact Sarah Mechtenberg @612-706-0854 or Anne Marie at the parish  office (651) 633-8333.

ADMISSIONS RECEPTION
St. Thomas Academy will host an Admissions Reception on Sunday, October 29, at 1:00 p.m.  Families interested in enrolling students for Fall, 2001 are invited to attend.  Entrance Exams will be given on January 20 and January 27.  St. Thomas is a Catholic, college-preparatory school for young men, grades 7-12.  If you have any questions about St. Thomas Academy, please contact Jeff Hermes, St. John's Parish Rep.  (651) 636-0303.

BIRTHRIGHT

Want a part-time job that doesn't pay a dime but the        rewards are many?  This job doesn't provide insurance but does offer tax deductions for mileage.  This position allows you to love every client in a nonjudgmental way, and    educate and support women in making alternative choices to abortion. Time commitment is 2 hrs. 1-2 times per  month.   If interested in this great opportunity contact Julie Scott @ Birthright of Coon  Rapids 651- 766-8670. Volunteer training will be held Sat. Nov.11th (9:00am. - 3:30pm.) and Sun. Nov.12th (12:00pm - 3:30pm).  You don't have to be a professional to do this.

"For those who are Catholic, there can no longer be any doubt:  There is simply no way to be Catholic and "pro-choice,"  when the choice in question involves the taking of innocent life.  Those who hold that there is more than one Catholic position on abortion are mistaken and need to stop misleading others. 
-- Fr. Frank Pavone, International Director of Priests for Life.

Last Week                                                             CAPITAL                                         ACTUAL   GOAL      CAMPAIGN
                                          $20,736  $22,291          $11,148

SINCE: July 1, 2000                             To Date
                            $384,041            $398,839         $1,470,073
Children's   
$34.00

Thank you for your support!

Music Notes...
Questions most often asked about the choir:
WHAT MUSIC ABILITY MUST I HAVE TO SING IN THE CHOIR?
You need to be able to carry a tune!  Previous choral or instrumental experience is helpful, but not required.  While some in the choir are note-readers, others are not.  We find that rehearsal tapes, made upon request, are helpful for part-learning.

ARE THERE PRIVATE AUDITIONS?
While there are no formal auditions for choral volunteer singers, each singer must demonstrate range and pitch accuracy prior to membership.

IF I AM NEW TO CHOIR, SHOULD I JUST SHOW UP AT THE FIRST REHEARSAL?
Though we won't send you home, please contact director Cheri Sykes at the parish office (651) 633-8333 prior to your first rehearsal.

CHOIR SEEMS LIKE A PRETTY HEAVY COMMITMENT.  IS THERE ANY  FLEXIBILITY?  Yes.  We understand how hectic life can be.  Talk to us--we'll work with you.  A sign-out calendar is available for members to plan ahead.  We welcome you on a seasonal basis (that's you, Snowbirds!) or perhaps you can only rehearse and sing with us a couple times a month.  Let's talk!

DO YOU OFFER CHILDCARE?
Yes!! Young parents, this is your opportunity for a night out with friends!  Please call the office ahead for reservations.