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Regular City Council Minutes - 11/17/03 Page 9 considerations and the numerous requests presented to them. Dr. Thein spoke enthusiastically in support of the NYFS program and testified to the substantial dividends the community and families receive from the NYFS program; and the difference it makes to those receiving its services, particularly the youth as evidenced in his experience in the education system. Richard VerHagen, 176 Owasso Boulevard S Mr. VerHagen spoke in favor continued City support of the NYFS, citing his experience as a drug abuse counselor and the need for the type of organization in any community, opining that this is one area where the budget should not be reduced. Mandy Grieling, State Representative, Minnesota House of Representatives Mayor Kysylyczyn brought forward, for the record, written communication dated November 14, 2003, from Representative Grieling, in support of continued funding for the NYFS. Harriet Alexander Nature Center Ernie Willenbring, 832 Lovell Avenue Mr. Willenbring, as President of Friends of the Harriet Alexander Nature Center and a resident, expressed appreciation to the City Council for continued funding of the Nature Center and staffing of the Naturalist. Mr. Willenbring reviewed the increased on-site education and visits of the public, and the advantages to the City for having this "gen1" in their community. Mr. Willenbring noted that there had been a number of residents in attendance at the meeting earlier willing to voice their support, along with a written petition that was available for keeping the Center open 5 - 6 days each week; and they had asked that he relay their appreciation to the City Council for their continued funding. Betty W olfangle, 837 Heinel Drive Ms. W olfangle, as an active volunteer at the Harriet Alexander Nature Center who had been involved since its