ABOUT ME

Hi, I'm Sandy

WHERE I COME FROM

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Sandy Farder, and I’m running for a seat on the Crosslake City Council. Since it is unlikely that I will encounter every voter in Crosslake before the election, I’m reaching out to you all in this way.

My twin brother and I were the last born of five children into a military family residing in San Diego, California. I was fortunate to live quite near the ocean and took full advantage of the location.

Upon completion of my education, I left California with my degree in English and my Teaching license, and moved to Colorado. I eventually found my way to Minnesota, where I met my husband, fell in love, and here I have remained.

I love Everything about Minnesota, even the winters, because they are beautiful in their own way, and the spring is so glorious when it arrives. Having lived elsewhere, I can also vouch for the fact that Minnesotans really are the nicest people.

A THRIVING CAREER

Although I’ve worked many different jobs, my career has been in education. I’ve taught ESL to all grades, high school English, Social Studies and English at an ALC and have tutored students in their homes. Just last year I worked as a Learning Lab tutor and a substitute at Crosslake Community School.

The majority of my career, though, was spent as the Director of an Adult Basic Education program. I taught English to legal immigrants from all over the world, seeking to assimilate into our society and make a better life for themselves and their families. I also helped young adults (and some older ones) finish their high school diploma credits or prepare to pass the GED exam.

I not only served my students, but also my community. I collaborated with community organizations and local businesses to create opportunities for my students while providing great publicity and outreach for those businesses and organizations.

A PROBLEM SOLVER

I don’t see problems; I see challenges, and I love a good challenge. My wonderful husband and I finally moved here two years ago after having come here every summer for decades. I never dreamed I would be so lucky to live here full time, but here we are. We both absolutely love the Crosslake community, but have come to recognize that it has some challenges. I say challenges, not problems.

After talking to some business owners and many residents, it’s clear that steps could be taken to help our existing businesses flourish, as well as to encourage additional fun, inviting businesses to establish themselves here. Without a thriving business community, cities struggle on many levels.

The influx of summer tourists every year is financially lucrative for most restaurants and lakes—related businesses. However, it would be nice to have more options for activities, dining and entertainment the rest of the year for current residents and to encourage more people to make Crosslake their home, or simply encourage more wintertime visitors.

The Loon Center will be fantastic and should bring more people to Crosslake, but will no doubt bring with it new challenges. I’m excited to take on any and all challenges that may face Crosslake. Growth is inevitable and desirable, but it needs to be thoughtfully and strategically planned in order to maintain the unique charm and small town feel that we all love. We also need to ensure the safety and comfort of our residents.

I certainly do not have all the answers, but I will do my best to help find them. If I’m elected, serving on the city council will be my full time job, and I will devote myself to being the best city council member possible.

If you would like to share your ideas or concerns with me, feel free to contact me at contact@sandyforcitycouncil.com