Adventures in Learning
                 John Kriesel to Share Miraculous Story

Shepherd’s Center of the Cannon Valley will hold their “Adventures in Learning” program on Friday, November 11thand will use this day to honor our Veterans. One of the featured speakers will be SSG John Kriesel, who lost his legs and two buddies to a roadside bomb near Fallujah, Iraq on December 2nd, 2006.  No one expected him to survive and he actually died three times on the operating table. Medical miracles put his body back together, but it was an incredible confluence of angels at every step along the way that breathed life into his shattered body. John will share a vision of hope for anyone who encounters any form of personal crisis. He has also put his amazing story into a book, Still Standing, and will have copies available that he will sign. 
During Kriesel’s military career, he has been awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, Purple Heart Medal and Bronze Star Medal. 
“I’m very excited to have John with us on Veteran’s Day,” commented Shepherd’s Center Director Rod Johnson.“He tells an amazing story that is sure to touch those in attendance.”

Other special activities will also take place during this very special, “Veteran’s Day –Adventures in Learning,” including stories from Cannon Falls native and World War II veteran, Arnie Hjermstad. Also appearing will be an honor guard comprised of members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4452 and American Legion Post 142. It will truly be a morning dedicated to the men and women who serve and have served in the United State Military.

“Adventures in Learning” is one of many programs offered through the Shepherd’s Center of the Cannon Valley. Those who would like to attend the November 11th event are asked to call Shepherd’s Center at 507-263-2136 to RSVP.  The program starts at 9:30 a.m. and will conclude with a lunch at noon. The cost to attend is only $6.00, and includes lunch. Again, the public is invited to attend to hear John Kriesel’s amazing story and join Shepherd’s Center as we honor our Veterans at St. Ansgar’s Church in Cannon Falls starting at 9:30 a.m.

Shepherd’s Center Seeking Volunteers

Cannon Falls, MN – Shepherd’s Center of the Cannon Valley is in need of volunteers for a number of programs they currently offer. Drivers are currently needed to help transport area residents to out-of-town medical appointments. Responsibilities of the volunteers would be to provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments outside the Cannon Falls area.  Anyone who would be able to assist is asked to call Shepherd’s Center at 507-263-2136 or stop in at 120 State Street West in Cannon Falls.
Volunteers are also needed to help deliver Meals on Wheels.  Shepherd’s Center coordinates the delivery drivers and there is
an ongoing need for additional drivers for scheduled and/or occasional back-up routes.

Shepherd’s Center is also looking to upgrade their office facility, and could use volunteers to help with decorating ideas, wallpapering, carpentry and remodeling, painting and general handy man work.

An important aspect of Shepherd’s Center is to feature senior adults who are able to volunteer their life experience and skills to benefit the community.  The Center is always looking for seniors who are willing to help as companions to our home bound…take part in our “Book Buddies” program…lead educational programs…help in health and fitness programs and much, much more. 
Shepherd’s Center is asking that area residents consider volunteering as an opportunity to make a significant difference in not only your own life, but the lives of others.

 For more information, or to volunteer please contact Shepherd’s Center at 507-263-2136, or email shepherdscenter@frontiernet.net.