B l a i n e WWW.CI.BLAINE.MN.US CityConnect September/October 2012 Blaine Hosts 14,000 Athletes from 16 Countries for the 28th Annual Schwan’s USA Cup Championship games for all divisions of the 28th Annual SCHWAN’S USA CUP, presented by PUMA, were played on Saturday, July 21, at the National Sports Center. Minnesota teams won four of the 16 top- level championships. International visiting teams from Canada, Mexico, Norway, and Japan also won titles. This year was notable for the dominating performances turned in by teams from single international clubs. The Tokiwagi Gauken High School in Sendai, Japan, brought two teams, and both won championships in the girls 16 and 19 divisions. Flor SK, a club from Floro, Norway, came with four teams, three of which won USA CUP championships in the boys 16, 17, and 19 divisions. This year’s tournament featured over 14,000 athletes on 958 teams from 22 states and 16 countries, making it the largest youth soccer tournament in the Western Hemisphere. The weekend and week-long tournaments together generate an estimated $20.4 million in economic impact for Blaine and the surrounding area. Blaine World Fest Returns Sept. 15 Join the City of Blaine and residents from across the north metro on September 15, from 1 to 5 p.m., at Town Square Park, for the 5th Annual Blaine World Fest. is unique event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the growing cultural and ethnic diversity that exists in our community by enjoying music, dance, cultural learning booths, demonstrations, and delicious ethnic food. World Fest has grown each year to include new and exciting opportunities and festivities. Last year there were over 1,000 people in attendance. Sample Ethnic Foods Courtesy of: • Acapulco • Chili’s • China Inn • Dixie Blue BarBQue • Dosa King • Glockenspiel & Deutschland Meats • HotWokDelivery • J.J. Murphy’s Irish Pub - Blaine • Umbria Pizza Enjoy Cultural Entertainment by: • Art of Dance • CAAM Chinese Dance Theatre • Kalpulli Yaocenoxtli- Traditional Mexica Aztec Dance and Drum Group • QC Dance Studio – Appalachian Clog • Renee Dance Studio (Latin Dance/ Afro Caribbean) • Shamrock School of Irish Dance • Titambe West African Dance Ensemble • LoveWorks Academy Drill & Drum Team Informational/Cultural Learning Booths by: • iAsianLanguage Institute • AFS (Foreign Exchange Student Program) • Anoka County Child and Teen Checkups • Chinese Heritage Foundation Friends • Cilongo Foundation • Emma B. Howe Family YMCA – Diversity Committee • Guatemalan Exhibit • Hawaii NailSpa • Hmong Folk Art, Inc. • Phancy Face Painting, Airbrushing….Plus • Rasmussen College - Blaine Campus (Diversity Committee) • Tarkanfi - Start Walking is activity is funded, in part, by appropriations from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the State’s general fund, and its arts and cultural heritage fund that was created by a vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008. Photo Courtesy of Tim Hennigar, ABC Newspapers For $5, festival-goers may purchase a set of tickets good at all participating food vendors. All other activities and entertainment are free. Blaine Parks and Recreation will again sponsor a diversity essay contest for students, giving kids an opportunity to express what diversity means to them. More information about the essay contest is available on page 7. For more information about Blaine World Fest or to volunteer, please contact Recreation Supervisor Tom Godfrey at 763-717-2723.
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Blaine W W W . C I . B L A I N E . M N . U S
CityConnectSeptember/October 2012
Blaine Hosts 14,000 Athletes from 16 Countries for the 28th Annual Schwan’s USA Cup Championship games for all divisions of the 28th Annual SCHWAN’S USA CUP, presented by PUMA, were played on Saturday, July 21, at the National Sports Center.
Minnesota teams won four of the 16 top-level championships. International visiting teams from Canada, Mexico, Norway, and Japan also won titles. This year was notable for the dominating performances turned in by teams from single international clubs. The Tokiwagi Gauken High School in Sendai, Japan, brought two teams, and both won championships in the girls 16 and 19 divisions. Flor SK, a club from Floro, Norway, came with four teams, three of which won USA CUP championships in the boys 16, 17, and 19 divisions.
This year’s tournament featured over 14,000 athletes on 958 teams from 22 states and 16 countries, making it the largest youth soccer tournament in the Western Hemisphere. The weekend and week-long tournaments together generate an estimated $20.4 million in economic impact for Blaine and the surrounding area.
Blaine World Fest Returns Sept. 15 Join the City of Blaine and residents from across the north metro on September 15, from 1 to 5 p.m., at Town Square Park, for the 5th Annual Blaine World Fest. This unique event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the growing cultural and ethnic diversity that exists in our community by enjoying music, dance, cultural learning booths, demonstrations, and delicious ethnic food. World Fest has grown each year to include new and exciting opportunities and festivities. Last year there were over 1,000 people in attendance.
This activity is funded, in part, by appropriations from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the State’s general fund, and its arts and cultural heritage fund that was created by
a vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Photo Courtesy of Tim Hennigar, ABC Newspapers
For $5, festival-goers may purchase a set of tickets good at all participating food vendors. All other activities and entertainment are free.
Blaine Parks and Recreation will again sponsor a diversity essay contest for students, giving kids an opportunity to express what diversity means to them. More information about the essay contest is available on page 7.
For more information about Blaine World Fest or to volunteer, please contact Recreation Supervisor Tom Godfrey at 763-717-2723.
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PUBLIC MEETINGS
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rBlaine City Hall10801 Town Square Drive NEBlaine, MN 55449
763-784-6700763-785-6156 (fax)
CITY COUNCILMAYORTom Ryan12147 Radisson Road NEBlaine, MN 55449
Police and Fire ............................................... 911Police (non-emergency) ...................763-785-6168Fire (non-emergency) .......................763-786-4436Building Inspections .........................763-785-6170Cable Channel 15 .............................763-780-8241City Cable Channel 16 .....................763-785-6192City Clerk .......................................763-785-6124City Manager ...................................763-785-6120Community Standards ......................763-785-6187Crime Prevention .............................763-785-6113Economic Development ....................763-785-6147Engineering .....................................763-785-6172Fire Inspections ..............................763-785-6187Forestry .........................................763-717-2660Housing Services ............................763-785-6146Human Resources ...........................763-785-6109Job Line .........................................763-717-2679Newsletter .....................................763-717-2735Operator .........................................763-784-6700Parks and Recreation .......................763-785-6164Planning & Zoning ...........................763-785-6180Public Works ...................................763-785-6165Recycling & Solid Waste ..................763-785-6192Senior Citizens Center .....................763-786-9375 Streets ...........................................763-785-6165Stormwater .....................................763-785-6188Utility Billing ...................................763-785-6141Water & Sewer System ....................763-785-6165Web ...............................................763-717-2638
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Blaine/Spring Lake Park Life.
About this Newsletter...
CityConnect is published bimonthly by the City of Blaine and distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the city newsletter are available at www.ci.blaine.mn.us. Feedback can be directed to newsletter @ ci.blaine.mn.us .
City Council*Sept. 6 | Sept. 20 | Oct. 4 | Oct. 187:30 p.m. | City Hall Council Chambers
City Council WorkshopsSept. 6 | Sept. 13 | Sept. 20 Oct. 4 | Oct. 11 | Oct. 186:30 p.m. | City Hall Cloverleaf Room
Planning Commission*Sept. 11 | Oct. 97 p.m. | City Hall Council Chambers
Park Board*Sept. 25 | Oct. 237 p.m. | City Hall Council Chambers
Natural Resource Conservation Board Sept. 18 | Oct. 167 p.m. | City Hall Cloverleaf Farm Room
Arts CouncilSept. 11 | Oct. 96:30 p.m. | City Hall Lunch Room
Historical Society Oct. 96:30 p.m. | City Hall Sanctuary Room
*meetings can be seen live on cable channel 16
Holiday
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Anoka County Sheriff ’s Office Prescription Drug Take Back Program The Anoka County Sheriff ’s Office has started an ongoing prescription drug take back program. This program will accept unwanted prescription drugs from non-commercial residential users only. No syringes, needles, or other hazardous materials are accepted.Participation in the program is free and anonymous. All prescriptions are disposed of with “no questions asked.” The prescription drug drop box is located at the Anoka County Sheriff ’s Office, 13301 Hanson Blvd. N.W. in Andover, and is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Prescription Drug Take Back initiative addresses a vital public safety health issue. More than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs, according to a 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey. Each day, approximately 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time, according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet.Please properly dispose of your old medicines and have a clear talk with the youth in your life about the dangers of drug use.
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What Families Can Do To Be Fire SafeYouth fire-setting is often referred to as the preventable arson.Each year in this country, fires set by children are responsible for more than 100 fire deaths, nearly 1,000 painful burn injuries, and hundreds of millions of dollars in property loss, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Children are often the victims in these fires. While curiosity about fire is natural, fires set by children are dangerous and deadly.Why Do Kids Set Fires?
The best way to understand why children set fires is to look at their motivations for fire-setting. For most young kids, the motive is experimentation and curiosity. Other motives may be a cry for help, thrill-seeking, willful intent to cause destruction, or mental/emotional problems.Remember, if you suspect your child is setting fires, you are not the only parent ever to face this problem. Contact your local fire department immediately, and explain the situation to them. Many fire departments offer youth fire-setting prevention and intervention programs.Parents, caregivers, and public educators, whether they are from the fire department or the school system, can build an informed foundation by teaching fire safety at an early age. Teach children of all ages that fires, even small ones, can spread quickly.Teaching Children Fire Safety
The most critical message for children to learn is that matches and lighters are tools, not toys! Parents should never use lighters, matches, and fire for fun. Children will mimic your behavior. If they do it in an unsupervised situation, tragic events can result. Praise your child for practicing responsible behavior and showing respect for fire. Set a good example by using matches, lighters, and fire carefully. Children will imitate your positive behavior.• Always supervise young children.• Never leave matches or lighters within reach
of children. Keep matches and lighters out of reach in high, locked cabinets.
• Use child-resistant lighters, but remember that they are not childproof.
• Instruct young children to inform an adult if they find matches or lighters.
• Regularly inspect your home for fire hazards. Sign up for a free, home safety survey.
• Install and maintain working smoke alarms throughout your home.
• Plan and practice home fire-escape drills that include two ways out from every room.
• Install residential fire sprinklers in your home.Call the Spring Lake Park-Blaine-Mounds View
Fire Department with questions, or for a free home safety survey at 763-767-4003.
Join Us for the 2012 Spring Lake Park – Blaine – Mounds View Fire Department Open HouseJoin us for refreshments and the chance to learn more about the Fire Department and other community agencies. Safety devices such as smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and flameless candles will be available for purchase.
Activities may include:
Spray a fire hose, automobile extrication demonstrations, exploring a fire truck, 9-1-1 simulator, fire extinguisher training, home safety information, visit with local police departments, explore an Allina ambulance, fire truck ladder rides, meet Sparky, food vendors, and activities for kids.
Station 11710CountyHighway10SpringLakeParkSaturday,October13,1–4p.m.
Station 2114189thAve.BlaineSaturday,September29,9a.m.–Noon
Station 311920UlyssesStreetBlaineSaturday,October6,1–4p.m.
Station 410290LeverStreetBlaineSaturday,September24,10a.m.–1p.m.
Open House Dates
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The City of Blaine is still seeking new and experienced election judges to work full day shifts and/or to be on an “on-call list” for the 2012 General election. The General election is Tuesday, November 6, 2012. Election judges are responsible for the administration of election procedures in each voting precinct on Election Day. To qualify as an election judge: (full job descriptions available www.ci.blaine.mn.us)• you must be a resident of Minnesota and be
at least 18 years of age, • be eligible to vote, • be able to read, write and speak fluent
English, • cannot be a candidate in an election or
closely related to a candidate, and• cannot be closely related to another election
judge in the same precinct.Election judge training is required prior to working on election day.Anyone interested in serving their community as an election judge can review the job descriptions and download the online application at www.ci.blaine.mn.us under Elections. Return the application and the direct deposit form to the City Clerk’s address on the application. If you have further questions about becoming an election judge, please call Blaine City Hall at (763) 785-6122 or 763-785-6124 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Watch the city’s web page, cable TV. and city newsletter for further updates regarding the 2012 General election.
Absentee Voting for 2012 Blaine residents who are unable to go to their polling place on General Election Day may cast an absentee ballot by mail or in person during the 46 days prior to the election.New in 2012, voters who prefer to cast their absentee ballot in person may vote at Blaine City Hall during regular office hours which are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. In person absentee balloting will also be available at Blaine City Hall on the Saturday prior to the general election from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and until 5 p.m. the day before each election. The absentee balloting period for the November 6 General Election will take place between Friday, September 21 and Monday, November 5.Absentee voting is allowed if the voter:• Will be absent from his or her precinct on Election Day.• Is ill or disabled.• Is serving as an election judge in another precinct.• If a religious discipline or religious holiday or observance prevents a voter from voting on Election Day.• An eligible emergency declared by the governor or quarantine declared by the federal or state
government prevents voting on Election Day. Voters who wish to vote absentee by mail can download the absentee ballot application any time
at www.anokacounty.us/absenteevoting. Voters also can call 763-323-5275 to have an absentee ballot application sent to them.
Anoka County will continue to offer both in person and mail absentee balloting services to any Anoka County resident during the absentee balloting periods noted above. Anoka County’s Election Office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the Saturday before the election; and until 5 p.m. the day before the election.
Registering to Vote Before Election DayVoters are encouraged to register prior to election day. You may register to vote:In person at the Anoka County Elections Office, 325 East Main St. Suite W130, Anoka MN 55303, or at the Blaine City Hall, 10801 Town Square Dr., Blaine MN 55449.By mail by downloading a voter registration application at http://ww2.anokacounty.us/v4_elections/registration/documents/Voter-Registration-Card.pdf, and mail to Anoka County Elections, 325 East Main St, Suite 130, Anoka, MN 55303-5031. You may also register when you apply for or renew your driver’s license.
The deadline to pre-register for the General Election is Tuesday, October 18, 2012, at 5 p.m.
Election Judge Training and Election Day AssignmentsElection judges, please check your email regularly for updates and information regarding the General Election on Tuesday, November 6, 2012. If you have a spam blocker on your email, please be sure to add [email protected] and [email protected] to your “safe” list so you will readily receive email from city offices.If you worked the Primary election, you will be working at the same polling location for the General election.NOTE: Only those election judges that do not have email will receive a letter via U.S. mail regarding their training and/or work assignment.
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Monthly Recycling at Aquatore ParkEach third Saturday of the month, the City of Blaine sponsors a recycling drop-off program in the parking lot of Aquatore Park.
The collection event is staged near the Mary Ann Young Senior Center, and recurs the third Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Most appliances cost $10 each, and air conditioners are $15. Most electronics, including televisions, will cost between $2 and $25, depending on size. Tires and rechargeable batteries may also be recycled for a small fee.
Free items include scrap metal, car batteries, and used clothing. A free paper shredding service is also available to shred sensitive documents. Please note, no garbage will be accepted.
To learn more about the city’s recycling drop-off program and for a list
of acceptable items and associated fees, call 763-785-6192 or
visit www.ci.blaine.mn.us and search keyword recycle.
In Case of Sewer Backup, Contact Public WorksResidents experiencing a sewer backup should immediately contact the City of Blaine Public Works Department. Public Works will check the sewer main for blockages, as tree roots in the line can cause backups for neighbors as well. During regular business hours, Blaine Public Works
can be reached at 763-785-6165. Outside of business hours, call Anoka County Dispatch
at 763-427-1212 in order to notify Blaine Public Works.
Keep Your Eyes Open for Ditch ObstructionsThe Coon Creek Watershed District needs help monitoring public drainage ditches in the watershed district this summer. Check for blockages of water flow or blocked culverts. Any backed up water, particularly after snowmelt, may be the result of an obstruction.
Contact CCWD at 763.755.0975 or info @ cooncreekwd.org with
information about obstructions in a creek or drainage ditch.
Fall Leaf Season is Here!Leaf Disposal OptionsDon’t Rake Your Leaves into the Street!Many of our residents live in fully wooded areas. As the leaves from the trees turn color and fall, they provide both a beautiful show and plenty of cleanup effort. Please keep in mind that all decaying plant material that ends up in the city’s ponds and streams contributes to greater phosphorous load and poorer water quality. Please do not rake leaves into the street. Your cooperation in requested.
Drop-Off OptionsYou may bring your leaves and grass to the Anoka County Compost Sites for a cost of $4 for up to 4 cubic yards. The hours for the sites are:
Bunker Hills Site (Hanson Blvd. 1 mile north of Hwy 242 in Coon Rapids), Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. or sundown, whichever is first; Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sundays Noon to 5 p.m.
Lino Lakes Site (County Road 14 to the east of I-35W), Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10.a.m. to 7 p.m. or sundown, whichever is first; Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sundays Noon to 5 p.m.
Curbside Collection AvailableCurbside leaf and grass collection is also available from Veolia Environmental Services for a fee. Call 763-786-7233 for more information on their program.
Open Spaces Feature: Laddie Lake Park
Laddie Lake is a good choice for a walk, bike, or skate adventure in September or October. You might have seen Laddie Lake just West of Hwy 65 and South of Hwy.10. To find the parking lot, turn south from 89th Ave. onto Polk St., then look for the street sign marked Laddie Lake. Turn left and follow the street into the parking lot. The trail sign directs you to the major trails. The trail to the West curves along an Oak Savannah restoration area. The removal of Buckthorn and other invasive species made way for native plants to thrive here. In two or three years, the native prairie grasses and flowers will flourish on the sand dune, which leads up to the Oak Forest providing an example of how the site may have looked before development. The long straight path to the North takes you through the forest and exits across from the Fire Station
on 89th Ave. This is also the walk- in entrance to the park, which is hard to notice when driving by. Turn around to trace your steps along the forest trail and you will see an interesting sign - coyotes have been spotted here! Several years ago, coyotes were known to inhabit the woods but they have since been removed. On the East side of the path, you can glimpse a wetland through the trees. Coming to the end, a left turn will take you along Laddie Lake. If you have time for a short walk, you will enjoy this peaceful place. However, please stay on the paved trails and help preserve one of Blaine's high quality natural areas. You may not see a coyote, but you will likely see the male and female red wing blackbirds. The female is hard to spot because she is brown and likes to hide in the buffer along the shore.
Mary Ann Young Senior Center9150 Central Ave. | 763-786-9375
SeptemberSeptember 13, 11 a.m. – CPR Emergency
Response (sign up) September 24, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Flu Shot
Clinic (by appointment)September 26, 11 a.m. – Making Memories
from Your Stuff October
October 3, 11 a.m. – The Jug Band (Kitchen Band Entertainment)
October 9, 11 a.m. – Live Polka MusicOctober 9, 1 p.m. – “500” Tournament –
Cost $1.50 for payback prizes and snacks.October 11, 1 p.m. – Cribbage Tournament –
Sign up in advance with partner: $2/person.October 16, 9 to 5:30 p.m. – Jewelry Sale
Fundraiser – Volunteers needed!October 31 – Halloween Costume Party
& Birthday Party – Wear fun attire, enjoy accordian entertainment at 11 a.m., luncheon at noon, and Prize Bingo at 1 p.m. Register 3 days in advance.
Barnyard BoogieAges 8 and under w/parent/adult. Music, crafts, tattoos, animals, and refreshments. Event held at Aquatore Park.
DATE: Friday, September 28TIME: 6 to 7:30 p.m.FEE: $8/child
Sounds of the CityIndoor concerts held in the atrium at Blaine City Hall are free and open to the public.Joe Meyer Finesse Band Tuesday, October 16 – 7 p.m. (Pop, Motown & Blues)
DATE: Saturday, October 27TIME: 7 to 8:30 p.m.FEE: $9/child
Princess Party (sponsored by QC Dance)Ages 8 & under w/parent/adult.Your little princess can meet Belle and Cinderella at our Princess Party! We will have crafts, nail painting, photo opportunities, games, stage, refreshments, a deejay, and lots of dancing! Come in your favorite princess dress and don’t forget your camera! Event held at Blaine City Hall. Max. 140. Register now, spaces fill really fast!
DATE: Saturday, November 10TIME: 6 to 7:30 p.m.FEE: $9/child
More information about Parks and Recreation programs is available at 763-
785-6164 or in the current Recreation Connection online at www.blaineparks.com .
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Fall 2012
Creative TheaterHave you ever wanted to star in a play you helped create? Join us this fall, as students learn all about theatre by doing it themselves!
Children are guided by instructors through a process where they play theatre games, create a story, and work together to make that story into a working theatrical production. The participants create their own characters, plot, props, costumes, title, and everything else that is needed to make the production complete. The final stage is a performance of their original play for parents, family, and anyone else who wishes to come. Class held at the Blaine Baseball Complex building. Register by Sept. 21.
DATE: Saturdays, Sept. 29 – Dec. 8 (no class Nov. 24)TIME: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.FEE: $168
Living Rhythm (Ages 9 to 13)Ever met a child who did not LOVE to pound, stomp, clap, or make noise as loudly as possible? In this new for 2012 program, we turn
all of that energy into a show! Using rhythm oriented instruments and objects (e.g. Stomp) this class will introduce the students to some fundamental music structures such as counting and time signature, tempo, simple and semi-complex beats, and dynamics. With these building blocks, the class creates an original show for family and friends on the final day. Class held at the Blaine Baseball Complex building. Register by Sept. 21.
DATE: Saturdays, Sept. 29 – Dec. 8 (no class Nov. 24)TIME: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.FEE: $168
Adult 5-Person Basketball LeagueOfficiated men’s basketball league with games played at Westwood Middle School. League fee is $450 for a resident team and $500 for a non-resident team. The season is 10 games plus playoffs and starts on Wednesday, November 14. Call 763-785-6161 for more information.
Fall Recreation Connection BrochureThe Park and Recreation 2012 Fall Recreation Connection brochure will not be mailed to the residents of Blaine. To view our fall recreation program information and to register, please visit our website at www.BlaineParks.com. Also look us up on Facebook and Twitter! A limited number of fall brochures will be printed and available for pickup at the Park and Recreation office between 8
a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, please call 763-785-6164.
Senior Scene
Heartsaver Facts – First AidA four-hour course ideal for anyone interested in or required to implement First Aid training in an environment serving adult populations. Upon successful completion of practical skills testing, participants receive a course credential card. Fanny pack and first aid kit provided. Class does not meet the needs of health care providers. Held at SBM Fire Station 3. Cost includes AHA First Aid manual. Class is taught by certified instructors from the SBM Fire Department.
DATE: Thursday, September 27TIME: 6 to 10 p.m.FEE: $45
Women’s Self Defense & Empowerment Class (Ages 18 & up)Class provides a safe and comfortable atmosphere for women to explore safety concerns.
Tips to Help Voting Go SmoothlyHere are some tips to help your election experience go smoothly and be low stress:
First, use the Voter Registration Lookup program at the Secretary of State’s website to confirm that you are registered to vote under your current name and residence. The online address is https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx.
If you are not pre-registered, use the Polling Place Finder to locate your correct precinct and polling place and bring required proof of residence to be able to register and vote. The Secretary of State has a website to find your polling place, review the candidates and to review an exact sample ballot that you will see in your precinct at http://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us. Remember, you can only vote in the precinct where you live and many precincts and boundaries have changed for 2012 due to legislative redistricting.
Secondly, be sure to allow enough time to vote. Allow yourself time to walk or park and walk to the polling place and be patient if you must wait in line. The most common busy voting periods are the first few hours the polls are open, during the noon hour, and late afternoon when many voters get off work. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.
And lastly, be patient and enjoy the voting experience and thank the election judges for their service to their community. Perhaps you might sign up to serve as an election judge next time.
The Mary Ann Young Senior Center offers a variety of programs, social events, and dining options on weekdays. Call for more information and times or learn more online.
Visit www.ci.blaine.mn.us and search keyword senior center.
“Playing with Fire” at St. Croix Festival Theater Narrated boat tour and box lunch prior to the show that is included in the cost. Registration due by September 24.
St. Croix Casino – Danbury(Hole in the Wall)Register by Oct. 3
DATE: Wednesday, October 10TIME: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.FEE: $5 ($5 back at casino)
Trreasure Island CasinoRegister by Oct. 29
DATE: Monday, November 5TIME: 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.FEE: $5 ($5 food coupon & 10 pull tabs)
All casino trips depart from and return to the Senior Center and include motor
coach transportation and coffee and donuts prior to departure.
World Fest Essay ContestThis years Blaine World Fest event will once again sponsor an essay contest open to youth ages 10 to 18. This popular annual event is a great opportunity for the city to recognize and share its growing cultural and ethnic diversity. The essay topic is, “Why is Diversity Important to Our Community?” The contest will challenge youth to consider the meaning of diversity, and what they learn from living in a diverse community. World Fest will take place on Saturday, September 15, at Town Square Park.
Essays are separated and judged in three age categories: 10 to 12, 13 to 15, and 16 to 18. Essays must be typed or printed, and must include the name, age, address, and phone number of the writer. All essays must be original and unpublished, and contain 500 words or less.
Awards are in each age category. First place winners will receive a certificate of recognition presented during the World Fest event and a $20 gift card from a local business.
In addition, the three first place-winning essays will be printed in the November/December issue of Blaine CityConnect newsletter and published on the city website. Second place winners will receive a certificate of recognition and have their essays published on the city website. Third place winners will receive a certificate of recognition.Essays must be submitted by Monday, September 10. Winners will be contacted by phone by September 13.
Entries may be submitted by email to [email protected] (enter “Diversity Essay” in the subject line) or postal mail at:
City of Blaine - Essay Contest Attention: Tom Godfrey
Allina Medical Transportation Big Bell Ice Cream Blainbrook Bowl Blaine Public Safety Association Blaine Youth Hockey Association Connexus Energy Mercy Hospital Stanley and Patricia Peterson Family Pizza Hut of Spring Lake Park
SAFE KIDS Anoka County Spring Lake Park Community Education Spring Lake Park Lions Club SuperMom’s Bakery of SuperAmerica Xcel Energy
Thank you to our 2012 Sponsors !
16th Annual Blaine Safety Camp a Success
Another collection of Blaine soon-to-be fourth graders now possess the knowledge and tools to live safe, healthy lives after the 16th annual Blaine Safety Camp.
On July 11 and 12, more than 150 local children gathered at SBM Fire Station 3 for the comprehensive educational program. Organized by the Blaine Police, SBM Fire and Blaine Parks and Recreation departments, Safety Camp is designed to reduce the number of accidents and injuries among young children while providing the skills needed to manage emergency situations. The two-day Safety Camp went precisely as planned, instructing campers on a variety of safety-related topics ranging from first aid to brain injury prevention, while mixing in enough fun and excitement to make the experience one the children will never forget!
The camp counselors (firefighters, paramedics, police officers and parks and recreation staff ) were invaluable contributors to the Safety Camp experience. In a fun twist, the professional identity of each counselor was withheld from the kids to set up a surprise reveal at the awards ceremony at the end of camp.
Safety Camp kicked off with three successive morning programs. First, workers with Connexus Energy displayed the hazards and deadly power of electricity in a shocking electrical safety presentation. Then, campers were trained in personal safety and self defense from a third-degree black belt before learning about internet safety and the dangers associated with talking to
people online and sharing personal information.
After a hearty lunch and dancing off extra energy to music from a deejay, campers jumped right into four afternoon sessions. All campers were measured for booster seats and fitted for bike helmets. One of the primary goals of Safety Camp this year was to educate parents on the states booster seat law, which requires children to sit in booster seats if under specific height and weight guidelines. Bike helmets and instruction on a proper fit have been given to campers at each Safety Camp since the beginning of the program 16 years ago. That totals more than 2,300 bike helmets provided for Blaine children to ensure safe bicycling.
After campers received helmets, representatives from Mercy and Unity hospitals hosted a brain injury prevention/safety on wheels course. Then, an animated appearance by an SBM Fire Department firefighter showed how to react in case of a home fire. Don Bania Jr., an annual guest at Blaine’s and other Minnesota safety camps, shared his inspiring story. Don is a quadriplegic who developed his artistic skill by learning to draw with his mouth. He drew a picture of Sponge Bob Squarepants for campers. He also revealed to campers that he designed and drew the Safety Camp logo on their camp shirts.
To end the day, Blaine Police Officer Greg Rowe and his K9 partner Gunner, and Officer Reggie Larson and his K9 partner Rex, treated campers and their families to a drug sniff and criminal apprehension demonstration. Afterward,
children were allowed to meet Gunner and inspect his custom police car.
The next morning picked up where the previous day left off, with an animal expert sharing several creatures with campers while discussing animal safety. Then, a poison safety activity taught the kids to differentiate between poisonous and non-poisonous household products. The morning was complete with an engaging, interactive, bully prevention program.
A pizza lunch and magician Brian Richards entertained children with his “Drugs Steal the Magic” act energizing the campers for an afternoon of water safety at Roosevelt Community Pool.
After the two busy days of safety education, it was time for campers to relax and be rewarded for their dedication to keeping themselves, their families, and their friends safe. Campers were presented with a medal and certificate proclaiming successful completion of 2012 Blaine Safety Camp at an awards ceremony, emergency vehicle display, and ice cream social, held at Spring Lake Park High School.
Blaine Safety Services thanks the many employees, volunteers and sponsors for making 2012 Safety Camp an extraordinary success. A special thank you also goes out to all the campers for their enthusiastic participation.
Information about 2013 Safety Camp will be available in the Parks and Recreation Department’s summer 2013 Recreation Connection next March.
Two-Day Camp Focuses on Reducing the Number of Accidental Deaths and Injuries Among Children
Two-Day Camp Focuses on Reducing the Number of Accidental Deaths and Injuries Among Children
