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Home My WebLink AboutAboutTown_2005SpringPRESORT STD U.S.POSTAGE PAID Permit No.3932 Edina, MN AboutTown Magazine City of Edina 4801 West 50th Street Edina, MN 55424 www.CityofEdina.com SPRING•2005 About Town Official Magazine of the City of Edina City Begins Aggressive Street Reconstruction Program See page 40 for details ***ECRWSS*** POSTAL PATRON CAR-RT-WS ©C O L O U R S 2 0 0 5 Composting organic waste reduces the amount of trash buried in landfills and creates a natural fertilizer for lush lawns and gardens. Edina residents can get their own composting kits at a reduced price thanks to a partnership between Hennepin and surrounding counties. Ordinarily, a 13- cubic-foot Garden Gourmet compost bin costs $80, but residents can buy one for $30. The bin comes with a two-gallon kitchen waste bucket to transport food scraps from the house to the compost heap. To order a bin, residents can visit www.GreenGuardian.com or call 651-292-3933. Residents can then choose one of five dates and locations to pick up their composting kits. The pickup locations are Maple Grove Government Center, April 23, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.; Columbia Arena in Fridley, April 28, 2-7 p.m.; the Como Avenue parking lot on the State Fairgrounds, April 30, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Minneapolis Public Schools Education Service Center, May 7, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.; and Inver Hills Community College in Inver Grove Heights, May 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cash or check payments will be accepted at the pickup site, and the kits will be disassembled, so they will fit in most vehicles. Only one kit can be purchased per household. Table of Contents Calendar Of Events...............................................................1 Spring Calendar Highlights..................................................4 A Word From The Mayor ......................................................5 Morningside’s One-Man Police Force Was A Community Icon......................................................................7 City Accepting Nominations For 2005 Edina Heritage Award..........................................................14 County Smoking Ban Goes Into Effect..............................16 Edina Chorale Approaches 20 Years Of Musical Performance...........................................................17 City To Say Thanks At Annual Reception..........................21 City Of Edina To Flush Hydrants In April..........................22 What Every Carp In Edina Knows ... But You May Not...24 Senior Center, Kiwanis Club To Sponsor Summer Band Concert.........................................................................25 More Than $90,000 Donated To Park And Recreation Department in 2004...........................................26 Edina Community Foundation – A Guide To Living In Edina......................................................................30 Collaboration Of High School Students Benefits Community.............................................................34 Health Professionals Are Prepared ToBe Heroes...........36 It’s Not Only Neighborly ... It’s The Law..........................38 Out With The Old: City ToBegin Aggressive Street Reconstruction Program.....................................................40 Some Local Pilots Only Fly First Class.............................44 Dr. Alice Hulbert Named To Edina CityCouncil.............47 AboutTown Volume 18, Number 2 Spring 2005 Official Publication of the City of Edina, Minnesota 4801 West 50th Street Edina, Minnesota 55424 952-927-8861 Circulation 25,000 Editor:Jennifer Bennerotte Assistant to the Editor:Lelan Bosch Publisher:City of Edina About Town is produced by the City of Edina. To advertise in About Town, contact Richard Barbeau at Barbeau Marketing Group, 610-277-9252 or 612-965-2041. Copyright 2005 by City of Edina, 4801 West 50th Street, Edina, MN 55424. About Town is published quarterly by the City of Edina. The purpose of the magazine is to keep Edina residents informed of news, activities and programs that are important to them. We include articles of interest about our citizens and community history as well. About Town is printed on recycled paper to conform to City conservation guidelines. www.CityofEdina.com Cover photo by Polly Norman 1•SPRING 2005 SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY 1 By appointment beginning at 8:30 a.m., Podiatrist appointments, Edina Senior Center. 2 3 7 p.m., Minneapolis Police Concert Band, Edinborough Park. 4 5 Northwoods Boutique begins, Braemar Golf Course Clubhouse. 7 p.m., HRA&City Council, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Westside Trombone Quartet, Edinborough Park. 67 5:30 p.m., Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 8 By appointment beginning at 8:30 a.m., Podiatrist appointments, Edina Senior Center. 9 10 7 p.m., Classic Brass Quintet, Edinborough Park. 1112 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Wayne Hamilton,Edinborough Park. 131516 17 Northwoods Boutique ends, Braemar Golf Course Clubhouse. 7 p.m., St. Louis Park Community Band, Edinborough Park. 1819 7 p.m., HRA&City Council, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., The Music Staff Recital, Edinborough Park. 20 7 a.m., Recycling and Solid Waste Commission, Edina City Hall. 21 5:30 p.m., Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 2223 26 7 p.m., Human Rights &Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., River City Jazz Orchestra, Edinborough Park. 2524 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Edinborough Park. About Town Calendar APRIL 2005 27 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 28 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 29 6:30 p.m., 40th Anniversary Braemar Ice Show, Braemar Arena. 14 5 p.m., Volunteer Recognition Reception, Edinborough Park. 30 6:30 p.m., 40th Anniversary Braemar Ice Show, Braemar Arena. 2•SPRING 2005 SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY 1 7 p.m., Just Friends Big Band, Edinborough Park. 3 1:30-3:30 p.m. by appointment, Hearing Tests, Edina Senior Center. 7 p.m., HRAand City Council, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Khatchatryan Family Musicians, Edinborough Park. 45 5:30 p.m., Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Edina Garden Council Plant Sale, Arneson Acres Park. 7 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Edina Garden Council Plant Sale, Arneson Acres Park. 2 8 7 p.m., Northern Winds Concert Band, Edinborough Park. 9 10 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Claire Van De Crommert, Edinborough Park. 11 12 Noon, Will Hale & The Tadpole Parade, Edinborough Park. 13 By appointment beginning at 8:30 a.m., Podiatrist appointments, Edina Senior Center. 7:30 p.m., Edina Chorale “I’ve Got Music,” Eden Prairie City Center. 14 7:30 p.m., Edina Chorale “I’ve Got Music,” Eden Prairie City Center. 15 7 p.m., Somewhat Dixieland Band, Edinborough Park. 1617 7 p.m., HRA&City Council, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., CommunityHealth Committee, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Glen Helgeson&Gary Shulte, Edinborough Park. 18 7 a.m., Recycling & Solid Waste Commission, Edina City Hall. 20 By appointment beginning at 8:30 a.m., Podiatrist appointments, Edina Senior Center. 21 222324 7 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 2526 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 2728 3130 Memorial Day. Most City offices closed. 29 About Town Calendar MAY 2005 19 Noon, Wonderful World of Woody, Edinborough Park. 5:30 p.m., Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. County Offers Low-Cost Composting Bins 5•SPRING 2005 Last fall, Gov. Tim Pawlenty spoke at an Edina Chamber of Commerce luncheon regarding a number of State-level issues, including the State budget. In his speech, he recognized that while the cost of government will generally increase each year, those increases should be consistent with cost-of-living trends. As he spoke, it caused me to think that every taxpayer in Edina should periodically get a report on how the City operates the “business of government” owned by the people of Edina. Property Taxes Approximately 70 percent of the budget of the City of Edina is funded by property tax revenue. The first thing Edinans should know about the level of property taxation in our City is that except for Plymouth (and a few small lake communities such as Greenwood, Orono and Deephaven), we in Edina have the lowest City property tax rate in the metro area. The table below compares the City portion of taxes on a $300,000 home in Edina with equivalent priced homes in our neighboring suburbs. Edina’s City Taxes vs. Neighboring Suburbs City2004 City City Tax on Tax Rate$300,000 Home Edina25.56%$796.59 Eden Prairie32.94%$1,011.72 Bloomington35.52%$1,065.60 St. Louis Park39.37%$1,181.10 Richfield40.51%$1,215.30 Hopkins56.66%$1,699.80 Because of the City Council’s concern about property taxes overall, for the past several years we have been tracking certain Edina properties to determine whether real property taxes (collectively assessed by the City, school district and County) have been increasing as a percent of market value over time. We have determined that over the past decade, the percentage has been trending downward. The table below illustrates Market Values and Total Property Taxes for three single-family residential properties in Edina, all of which reflect this downward trend. Historical Property Taxes on Sample Properties Property19932004 Valley View RoadMarket Value$97,000$210,200 Total Prop. Taxes$1,616$1,992 Tax as % of Value1.67%0.95% Oaklawn AvenueMarket Value$177,700$514,000 Total Prop. Taxes$3,693$4,082 Tax as % of Value2.08%0.79% Moorland AvenueMarket Value$514,700$1,280,200 Total Prop. Taxes$12,368$13,514 Tax as % of Value2.40%1.06% Our five-year average annual property tax increase is 4.66 percent, or the equivalent of approximately $40 per year, on the hypothetical $300,000 home. For 2003 and 2004, the total average annual percentage of increase was 3.28 percent, roughly equivalent to the rate of inflation. The Council approved a 4.8 percent increase in property taxes for 2005. The majority of this increase was needed to replace the anticipated loss of a State aid called Market Value Homestead Credit that is not anticipated to be received from the State in 2005. If not for this aid cut, property taxes would have increased approximately 1.89 percent. The tax increase represents an increase in the City portion of property taxes of about $60 for a $300,000 home, or about $5 per month. Borrowing By The City The City occasionally borrows money if appropriate. Our debt is called “modest” and “manageable” by the key financial rating agencies. In fact, Edina enjoys a AAA bond rating from both rating agencies, Moody’s Investors Services and Standard & Poors. We are only one of approximately 20 cities in the entire United States under 50,000 in population that has this highest of financial ratings. It means when we need to borrow money, there is little, if any risk for bond purchasers. It also means that when we do borrow, we borrow at the lowest possible rate. 4•SPRING 2005 OTHER DATES TO REMEMBER: April 12 1:15 – 3 p.m.Blood Pressure Clinic, Edina Senior Center. May 10 1:15 – 3 p.m.Blood Pressure Clinic Edina Senior Center. May 17 3 – 7 p.m.Public Works Open House, Public Works Building EDINA GARDEN COUNCIL ANNUAL PLANT SALE What:The Edina Garden Council raises plants to be included in the sale. Plants from commercial growers are carefully selected to ensure high- quality choices. Also offered will be a wide variety of perennials, annuals and bulbs grown in the gardens of Garden Council members. Proceeds are used to fund horticulture scholarships through the Federated Garden Clubs of Minnesota and projects to beautify City parks. Recent major projects in Arneson Acres Park include the large gazebo, a memory garden and the woodland garden. The Edina Garden Council’s current goal is to replace the fountain in Arneson Acres Park. When:10 a.m. – 8 p.m. May 6, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. May 7 Where:Arneson Acres Park, 4711 W. 70th St. Info:612-866-1116 EDINA ART FAIR What:The 50th & France Business & Professional Association will host the 39th annual Edina Art Fair. One of Edina’s premier summer events, the event draws tens of thousands to downtown Edina each year. Featured art will include drawing, painting, ceramics, pottery, glass, jewelry, photography, sculpture and wood. The event will also feature live entertainment and food. When:10 a.m. – 8 p.m. June 3, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. June 4, 10 am – 5 p.m. June 5 Where:Downtown Edina, 50th Street and France Avenue Info:952-922-1524 or www.50thandFrance.com PARADE OF BOATS What:More than 150 radio-controlled model boats will be on exhibit at the Edina Model Yacht Club’s 13th annual Parade of Boats. The annual event draws large crowds of spectators and model boat builders each year. The Parade of Boats showcases a variety of radio-controlled electric and model boats, including tugboats, sailboats, police boats, submarines, steamboats and high- speed electric racers. At the event, club members sail and race their model boats for everyone to view. Additional boats will also be displayed inside of the nearby Centrum Building, where club members will demonstrate how model boats are built. When:11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday, June 12 Where:Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. Info:952-832-6788 Spring Calendar Highlights A Word From The Mayor 3•SPRING 2005 SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY 1 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Good News Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 2 5:30 p.m., Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 3 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 4 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 5 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 7 p.m., Minnesota Symphonic Winds, Centennial Lakes Park. 6 7 7 p.m., HRAand City Council, Edina City Hall. 8 7 p.m., Amy &Adams, Centennial Lakes Park. 91011 12 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Parade of Boats, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Just Friends Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 13 7 p.m., Jim &Kathy Emery, Centennial Lakes Park. 14 1:15-3 p.m., Blood Pressure Clinic, Edina Senior Center. 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 15 7 a.m., Recycling and Solid Waste Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Bend in the River Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 1718 19 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 20 Summer Playground Program begins. 7 p.m., Brio Brass, Centennial Lakes Park. 21 7 p.m., HRA&City Council, Edina City Hall. 22 7 p.m., Triplicate, Centennial Lakes Park. 23 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 2425 28 7 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 27 Fab 4 &5 Playground Program begins. 26 7 p.m., Honeywell Concert Band, Centennial Lakes Park. About Town Calendar JUNE 2005 29 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Bloomington Medalist Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 30 16 5:30 p.m., Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. (continued on next page) 7 p.m., Edina Senior Center and Golden K Kiwanis Club Summer Concert, Eisenhower Community Center Theater,Hopkins 6•SPRING 2005 In the past, the City has issued bonds for projects such as the beautification of 50th & France; to build Centennial Lakes, one of the finest projects of its type in America; and Grandview Square, where our new Senior Center and Edina Community Library are located. We have also issued bonds to build the new City Hall and to make recreational improvements at the Edina Aquatic Center, Braemar Arena and elsewhere. Clearly, the ability to borrow under appropriate circumstances has allowed Edina to control and implement its vision of community development. As of Dec. 31, 2003, Edina’s net debt was approximately $64.5 million. Thirty-five million of this debt is represented in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts. This debt will be entirely paid off in the next eight years by new taxes generated by the projects in these TIF districts (not the taxpayers in general). Of our debt, $12 million is represented with Revenue Bonds-Utilities and Recreational Facilities. This debt is supported (paid for) by users of Braemar Arena, Edina Aquatic Center and Braemar Golf Course, not by all the taxpayers. In total, roughly 73 percent of our debt is supported by projects in the TIF districts or by users of the facilities. The balance of our debt is payable through a general debt levy. The bottom line: we would not have a AAA bond rating if we engaged in excessive borrowing and the Council intends to maintain our high level of creditworthiness in the future. Operational Efficiencies The City of Edina is a $50 million per year business with 260 full-time employees and several hundred part-time employees. Improving the quality and efficiency of operations on a continual basis is something that is appropriate for all of us to expect. Private sector business is constantly seeking more efficiency and greater productivity in increasingly competitive markets and a city is no different -- it needs to conduct itself like a business constantly seeking efficiencies and improved productivity. I think our chief administrator, the City Manager, and our various department heads have responded well to this request by the Council. When challenged to increase operational efficiencies, our department heads have responded with improvements that have saved thousands of dollars annually. Some of the other improvements I have seen occur in City government include the following: over the past six years, our municipal liquor store net annual revenue has increased from roughly $600,000 annually to $1 million annually and it has adopted an effective business plan generating greater sales and internal efficiencies. This increase in net revenue has had a direct beneficial effect for our taxpayers as these revenues serve to hold down property taxes for all of us. Another example is that in the 1980s the Aquatic Center lost $50,000 to $60,000 annually, entirely subsidized by the taxpayers. Several years ago, following a Park Board study, we borrowed money to enhance the Aquatic Center. The Star Tribune now says Edina has one of the best outdoor swimming pools in the metro area. In 2003, the Aquatic Center had net revenues of $300,000 and for 2004, when the books are completed, we expect $250,000 in net revenue. Similarly, at Edinborough Park, the small indoor play area and ice sheet were losing $200,000 annually. After a requested market analysis was completed by a Park Board task force, the City remodeled the park and installed a new indoor play park at a price of $250,000. It is called Adventure Peak. It paid for itself in eight months and had gross revenue of $370,000 in its first year of operation. The Council has also looked at new and increased user fees, discretionary spending reductions in service levels and potential new enterprises or fee-based services. Each year, there is more critical analysis and this year is no different. The Council is constantly looking at ways to more effectively deliver the same level of high quality service we have all come to expect at a fair and reasonable price. All of us on the Council take very seriously our role that we act, at all times, for the beneficial interest of all our fellow citizens. Be assured that efforts are ongoing to make Edina an even better place to live, work and raise our families. James B. Hovland Mayor By Joe Sullivan Contributing Writer He appeared to be an unwilling candidate for the job when he surprised the Morningside Village Council in 1929 with a frank admission that he was not interested. “We need a constable,” the then-mayor of Morningside said, addressing the slender, soft-spoken George Weber. “Will you take the job?” “I’ll do anything to earn an honest dollar,” Weber replied. “But being a policeman is one thing I’ve never in my life wanted to have anything to do with.” However, the Village officials knew what they wanted and voted him in anyway. Thus began Weber’s 27-year career as a part-time, and later full-time, marshal—a title that was used interchangeably with constable. He was a one-man police department in the tiny 264-acre village—Hennepin County’s smallest, which had seceded from Edina in 1920. He Grew Up On A Farm Born in 1874, at Sanborn in southwestern Minnesota, Weber had grown up on a farm near there. In 1921, without formal schooling beyond the fourth grade, he sold the farm he had inherited and moved with his wife, Bertha, a former teacher, to Minneapolis, intending to give their four children greater opportunities than they had had. After a few months, George and Bertha moved to Morningside where he found work using his Jack-of-all- trades skills to maintain equipment for construction crews that were building homes in Edina’s new Country Club district. Shortly thereafter, the Webers had their own house built at 4400 Branson St. in Morningside. Midge (Weber) Keegan, youngest of the Webers’ four children, remembers sharing that home over the years with her siblings and at least 20 foster children—“sometimes as many as three at once,” Midge recalled—that the Webers took into their home. The children of Morningside first got to know George Weber in 1926, when he took a job as a custodian at the 7•SPRING 2005 Morningside’s One-Man Police Force Was A Community Icon (continued on next page) Marshal George Weber with his hat off on a hot day, across the street from Westgate Motor Sales on France Avenue and Sunnyside Road. Note the former Westgate Theater marquee in the background. Mi n n e s o t a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y revolver that dwarfed him.” (He had been known to rest the revolver’s weight against a hydrant when on traffic duty at his usual post outside Hawkins’ Confectionery at West 44th Street and France Avenue South.) The late Dorothy Young, his former neighbor, recalled in an interview before her death, “The day we moved to Morningside in 1947, we stopped to ask directions where he was managing traffic. He peered out at us from under the big policemen’s hat, grave and courteous, but unreal somehow. He always looked as if he was in costume—like a Keystone Kop without the pranks. He looked lost in that official uniform. He was so light-boned, so round-shouldered. Even back then, he looked like an old man.” He always carried his revolver, but often said he wouldn’t use it “except possibly to scare someone.” It wasn’t usually necessary because he had earned the respect and admiration of most Village residents, most of whom he greeted by name. He actually usedthe revolver once, when some burglars drove through Morningside in their flight from Edina police. His bullet missed them and he was admittedly glad, explaining: “They were bad ones, but you still shouldn’t shoot unless you absolutely have to.” “Constable” Weber Stories Are Now Morningside Folklore Morningsiders old enough to remember him still delight in telling stories about their fabled “Constable” Weber. But now, their amusement is often replaced by a wistful air. These anecdotes, passed down through generations, are now part of the former Village’s folklore. A few examples: • In many crime situations, Weber either knew or guessed the culprit’s identity with uncanny accuracy. When one house break-in was reported, Weber immediately rounded up five young Morningside men and they confessed. He explained his “Sherlockian” talent modestly, saying: “Oh, I figured they’d be about the only ones to do a thing like that.” He called their fathers and arranged weekly counseling sessions with the minister of Morningside Community Church. There was no paperwork, and as usual, no arrests. 9•SPRING 2005 George Weber’s revolver was recently donated to the Edina History Museum by Helen Erickson, whose husband, Edwin, bought it at a garage sale. Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n George Weber, “Marshal of Morningside,” at 44th and France— his favorite post. Ed i n a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y district’s new elementary school at West 42nd Street and Grimes Avenue. Black pants, a white shirt and black bow tie were his uniform then. He served the Morningside School before and after becoming Morningside’s part-time marshal. According to a 1954 Minneapolis Tribune article, Weber kept his job as custodian at the school until he later became a full-time police officer. During his 27 years as marshal, he kept a watchful eye on the Village. His wife took police phone calls in their home while George made his rounds. His workday usually began about 7:30 a.m. and often wasn’t finished until after dark. Weber was frequently roused from his sleep to straighten out a villager’s problem. Devoted Public Servant Handled Many Jobs Most Sunday mornings, if you had visited what was then Morningside Congregational Church, you would have seen Deacon Weber taking up the collection in a black suit and stiff white collar. It was said that his gray hair, normally covered by his policeman’s hat, matched his neatly clipped, handlebar mustache. Minneapolis Tribune columnist Robert T. Smith described Weber’s multi-faceted career in a 1955 article: “George is more than the Morningside Police Department. He’s also the Water Department—and the Census Department. It’s his job to read residents’ water meters and bill them accordingly.” (Actually, his wife Bertha handled the billing.) “He [also] registers each new resident in his census book,” Smith continued. “About 15 years ago, George tried to register a resident, but the resident declined. Shortly after, [that] resident attempted a holdup in Wisconsin. [He] was shot and killed. He’s [still] known as Morningside’s only gangster.” Morningsiders Describe Their Beloved Marshal “George Weber was not an ordinary cop, nor did he work in ordinary ways,” said Morningside resident Marjorie Douglas as she described the policeman who became a Morningside icon: “[He was] the famous mustached cop with a billy club strapped to his wrist and a .38-caliber 8•SPRING 2005 Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n Edina resident Steve Alderson’sbicycle license No. 1, Morningside’s first, was issued by Marshal Weber. Now on display at the Edina History Museum, it reads, “Morningside License No. 1, Term, Permanent.” Morningside’s bicycle licensing program was discontinued when the Village rejoined Edina in 1966. Items used by George Weber, Morningside’s first and only marshal, include his police badge—inscribed “Morningside Police”—and his ubiquitous billy club. All are on display at the Edina History Museum, 4711 W. 70th St. Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n (continued on next page) 11•SPRING 2005 •Whether it was a “peeping Tom” at the mayor’s house, a troubled boy who set fires or noisy young people on the streets late at night, the Village Council Chairman said of Weber when he retired, “He always finds a way to handle things quietly and quickly without fuss and without arrests.” •Self-professed Morningside “oldtimer” Jack Reid recalled the time “someone” put a live .22-caliber cartridge in the trash at the Morningside School, which exploded when then-custodian George Weber was emptying wastebaskets. “We got a real discourse on safety,” Reid added. •Someone once said to him, “Criminals in Morningside are scarce as pickpockets at a policeman’s ball.” Weber agreed and noted that his biggest problems were traffic and parking. “People want to park all over,” he said. “And you’ve got to make them toe the mark.” •For many years, the marshal used his house for police headquarters and a 1939 model auto for a squad car. One time, while pursuing a speeder on France Avenue, he lost control of the 18-year-old squad car, which jumped the curb and hit a tree. “I’m getting too old for this sort of thing,” George said after he retired his car from what he called “hot pursuits.” •His attitude about kids? “Most of them are well-behaved,” he observed. “But we’ve got a couple of mean ones.” The Pied Piper of Morningside In her history of Edina Morningside Community Church, Marjorie Myers Douglas noted: “The children loved this gentle policeman and followed him about, although Diane Vanko says he [once] … ‘chased her and her high school friends home from the Convention Grill after the movie.’” To many Morningside kids, Weber was their friend at the five-acre playground at 42nd and Grimes. There, the marshal encouraged them in athletics of all kinds. In 1947, the Village of Morningside invested $10,000 to improve the area with picnic facilities complete with an outdoor fireplace and lawn sprinkling system. Football and baseball fields were added later. Young archers gathered at Morningside’s George Weber Field for a tournament in 1950. It was only fitting that Marshal Weber should be there with some of his young friends including (from left): Joe Schoffman, Sally Fredrickson, Scotty McGlashan, Nancy Fredrickson, Jack Schoffman, Mike Walsh and Bill Donahue. Di c k P a l e n p h o t o • Weber often reiterated what the Village Council told him when he was appointed marshal about making friends and not arrests. On one such occasion, a firecracker exploded in a residential mailbox, triggering an angry phone call to Weber. Remembering a mischievous lad whose family he had recently registered in his census book, Weber guessed the culprit’s identity immediately. Characteristically, he decided not to prosecute, instead enrolling the boy in Cub Scouts. • Jim Neece lived across the street from Tom Keegan, Weber’s grandson. Neece told Keegan about the day he was riding his bike in Morningside and ran into the side of a car. The marshal was on the scene pretty quickly. Noticing that young Neece seemed worried about the accident, he comforted the boy and told him not to worry—it would be all right. “He always talked it over with the guilty one,” said Tom’s mother, Midge (Weber) Keegan. “He really listened with understanding, but left no doubt as to what behavior was expected in the future. It was almost as if they thanked him when he caught them. He was such a gentle person.” •Late one night, a terrified woman phoned the marshal’s home to report that her husband, fortified with alcohol and a gun, had holed up in the basement, determined to commit suicide. When the marshal arrived, the man wascalling out threats from the cellar. Weber went down the stairs, pulled up a crate and sat down. An agonizing hour later, a gaunt and weary Marshal Weber was able to take possession of the gun and arrange professional help for the would-be suicide victim. •It has often been said that Weber never made an arrest in his 27 years of service, but that apparently isn’t true. He made arrests when they were necessary, but did it discreetly—with minimum publicity. 10•SPRING 2005 (continued on next page) “Hide in the bushes!” the Village Council instructed Marshal Weber one summer when they were concerned about speeders on France Avenue. “Catch them and tag them,” they said. The marshal reluctantly complied, although it was not his usual laid-back approach. Weber’s hand half-covered a grin while an unidentified speeder used a megaphone to warn other motorists: “Speed trap ahead!” This is the Morningside Police Department citation that was issued to traffic violators. Note “Geo. T. Weber, Marshall” (sic) imprinted at the bottom. Ed i n a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y Ed i n a S u n - C u r r e n t In 1950, the playground was named Weber Field in recognition of George Weber’s years of service to the community. People were pleased that Weber Field had been named for him while the marshal was still around, because he took such great pride in it. Marshal Weber Retired In 1956 The May 23, 1956 Minneapolis Star announced 82-year-old George Weber’s plan to turn in his police badge and his bicycle licensing equipment after 27 years on the job. He and his wife, Bertha, 79, would also wind up their affairs as the Village Water Department—Weber as meter-reader and his wife as bill collector. Weber’s responsibilities had begun to decrease the previous October when Morningside signed an agreement with Edina for police protection. Since then, Edina police cars had criss-crossed Morningside several times a day, nabbing an occasional speeder or stop sign skipper. But Weber continued to walk his beat in the business district until June 1 of that year, warning double parkers, checking bicycle or motor scooter licenses and generally maintaining order. “It’s pretty quiet here, though,” Weber said. “Occasionally, I [brought in] a drunk—some were pretty hard to handle. Then, I would call in the sheriff. But I haven’t had any drunks for two or three years. We’ve had a few break-ins. The [Westgate] Theater was held up once. They got $18. That was real money then.” Things weren’t the same at the corner of 44th and France after Weber retired. Elvira Vinson, Morningside’s librarian for 19 years, recalled, “I don’t think Mr. Weber was ever off sick. He is not a forceful man, but he has the respect of everyone, including those he might want to chastise.” Pete Santrizos, whose three sons I knew at Southwest High School in Minneapolis, had operated the Convention Grill, on Sunnyside Road near France, for 15 years when Weber retired. During an interview with a newspaper reporter, Pete went to the restaurant’s closet and brought out a long wooden billy club. “See this? It’s a memento of Weber…. I used to have a pinball machine in here. Weber came in and said I should keep the kids away. I said I didn’t know how and asked [him], ‘Have you got a club?’ He left and came back later to give me this. I guess he didn’t want to use it himself.” Dave Budensiek, operator of the former Morningside Grocery on Sunnyside, said: “When they broke into the Milk House, the [Edina] police were called. Weber asked them later why they hadn’t called him, because he knew immediately who it was. He knew everybody in town. It’s going to be funny without him. We’ve had a good clean community as long as George has been around here.” Following his retirement, Weber had said, “I wish I had some hobby. I suppose I won’t last too long.” His words were prophetic. A year later, he died. The Minneapolis Star reported simply and accurately, “He was buried Tuesday, and Morningside cried.” Background material and photographs for this article came from the collections of the Edina Historical Society, the Minnesota Historical Society, Edina-Morningside Community Church and Dick Palen; the writings of E. Dudley Parsons, Marjorie (Myers) Douglas, Jack Reid and Elvira Vinson; the personal recollections of Dorothy Young, Tom Keegan, Midge(Weber) Keegan and Pete Santrizos; and the following publications: Edina Sun,Edina-Morningside Courier, The Morningsider, MinneapolisStar,Minneapolis Tribune and Suburban Press. Joe Sullivan is a freelance writer and Edina resident. He can be contacted via e-mail at EdinaMail@ci.edina.mn.us. 13•SPRING 200512•SPRING 2005 Weber Field was named in honor of Marshal Weber in 1950. In this 1947 map, the five-acre area behind Morningside Elementary School at West 42nd Street and Grimes Avenue was identified as a “Recreation Field.” It was partially surrounded by two unpopulated areas: “The Swamp” to the west and “The Hill” to the north. At the time, Grimes was apparently not yet cut through to 40th Street. Min n e a p o l i s S t a r m a p Officer Weber showing a German army helmet to neighborhood children. The live chicken in the arms of boy in the foreground is unexplained. Ed i n a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y Dogs and Cats prefer Pets AreInn Established 1982 MeetSam.Such a happy dog! He never has to be kenneled or caged. You see, Sam goes happily to another loving home when his family is away. His owners have found a service that is a perfect solution when they have to leave him behind: Pets Are Inn. Call today to learn more about us 952-837-1877 or visit our website at: www.petsareinn.com SPANISH General Spanish Courses Spanish for Business Spanish for Travelers Children’s Spanish Classes on Cultural Topics Language & Culture Within Your Reach Londonderry Office Park 5780 LincolnDrive, Suite 160 (Hwy 169, Londonderry Rd Exit) Edina, MN 55436-1640 Tel 952 933 9940 www.spanishin.us dialogos@spanishin.us The City of Edina is calling for entries in its third-annual Edina Heritage Award contest. The City established the award in 2003 to showcase local historic preservation activity. The Edina Heritage Award is given annually to an individual, family, company or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to the preservation, rehabilitation, restoration and use of Edina’s heritage resources. Any individual, company or organization is eligible for the award, including non- residents, but in order to be considered, the historic property or resource must be located in Edina. Current members of the City’s Heritage Preservation Board are not eligible for the award. The recipients of the 2004 award were the owners and tenants of Edina Theatre, 3911 W. 50th St., for their efforts to make the theater shine again. After purchasing the Edina Theatre, Haugland Company and tenant Landmark Theaters, Inc., refurbished the facility and the marquee. Eager to restore the sign and marquee to its former glory, the sign was repainted in June 2003 with colors such as “Peach Angora,” “Primrose Pink,” “Caroline Clay,” “Shell Tint” and “Chantrelle” to replicate the paint used 70 years before. The 2003 award winner was the Baird House, 4400 W. 50th St. The Heritage Preservation Board unanimously selected 15•SPRING 2005 City Accepting Nominations For 2005 Edina Heritage Award The 2004 Edina Heritage Award was given to the owners and tenants of the Edina Theatre for their work to restore the theater’s historic marquee. 14•SPRING 2005 the Baird House for the award because of the homeowners’ careful attention in building a modern addition to the historic home the year before. The Heritage Preservation Board will select this year’s winner. The Edina City Council will present the award during National Preservation Month in May. The winner will receive a commemorative plaque. Since the National Trust created Preservation Week in 1971 to spotlight grassroots preservation efforts around the country, it has grown into an annual celebration observed by small towns such as Edina and big cities with events ranging from architectural and historic tours and award ceremonies, to fundraising events, educational programs and heritage travel opportunities. Due to its overwhelming popularity, the National Trust has extended the celebration to the entire month of May and declared it Preservation Month to provide an even longer opportunity to celebrate the diverse and unique heritage of our country’s cities and states and enable more Americans to become involved in the growing preservation movement. This year will mark the first official Preservation Month. Announcement of the Edina Heritage Award during May is just one way the City commemorates the month. Award nominations are due 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 15. A nomination should include the address of the heritage resource; description of its preservation, rehabilitation and restoration; and name and address of owner. A photo should also be included. Entries should be sent to: Edina Heritage Award, Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424. Entries can also be e-mailed to EdinaMail@ci.edina.mn.us. For more information, call Associate Planner Joyce Repya, 952-826-0462. The first Edina Heritage Award was presented in 2003 to the owners of the Baird House. Ph o t o b y P o l l l y N o r m a n 17•SPRING 2005 Edina Chorale Approaches 20 Years Of Musical Performance 16•SPRING 2005 By Lelan Bosch For almost two decades, the Edina Chorale has shared ideals and emotions with the metropolitan area through the unique language of music. The Chorale began in 1985 as a community education program under the direction of Philip Spencer, who was then the Music Director at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Spencer wanted to direct musical styles that differed from church music and thought a city of Edina’s size and prominence should have a community choir. In the Chorale’s first year, just four men signed up for the program, so Spencer decided to direct the Chorale as a women’s choir. Forty women signed up the first year. The group worked hard to recruit male members and David Turk, President of the Edina Chorale, was one of 10 men who joined the Chorale in its second year. “I learned about the Chorale from a female friend who was in the group and invited me to join,” Turk said. Turk, Chief Financial Officer at Universal Savings Bank in St. Louis Park, sang throughout high school and college, but never pursued music as a profession. He, like many other members, uses the Edina Chorale to foster his love for music apart from his day job. “It’s a nice break from work,” Turk said. “But it is a time commitment that requires a love of music.” Since it was founded in 1985, the Chorale which now boasts 60-65 members, has been guided by three directors. Jim Hawthorne, former Director at South View Middle School, took over for Spencer after five years. Five years later, Tom Paulson, Music Director at Wayzata Community Church, took the helm and has directed the group ever since. Although the Edina Chorale performs mostly in the metropolitan area and Minnesota communities like Austin, Little Falls, Red Wing and Alexandria, the group has traveled as far as Mexico and Washington, D.C., over the years. The Chorale went to Mexico in June 1992 and joined a group of Mexican singers to perform Carl Orff’s opera, “Carmina Burana.” The Chorale’s member historian, Judy Sullivan, sang with the group at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City and recalled the hospitality of the Mexican people. “We performed two nights,” Sullivan said, “and they gave us a champagne reception and threw roses from the balcony.” Last June, Sullivan also went on the Washington, D.C., trip where the Edina Chorale was the first choir from the nation to sing at the World War II Memorial. Musical groups from each state were selected to be part of the year-long National Festival of the States that dedicated the memorial. The Chorale was selected for its reputation as one of Minnesota’s foremost musical groups. The Edina Chorale’s normal performance season includes three concerts per year in December, March and May. The December and March concerts usually feature (continued on next page) County Smoking Ban Goes Into Effect “No smoking” signs have been posted in restaurants and other places that serve food in Edina and the rest of Hennepin County. The County ban went into effect March 31. The Hennepin County Board of Commissioners last year approved an ordinance that calls for a smoking ban in all food establishments. County Commissioner Gail Dorfman, the author of the ordinance, said, “For me, it comes down to a question: Does a person’s freedom to smoke in a public place do harm to others? And the answer is yes.” The penalty for not following the ordinance is a misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. The City of Edina Health Department will enforce the ordinance locally. Restaurants are not the only places in Edina where people are prohibited from smoking. Since October 2004, no person has been allowed to use any form of tobacco in Edina parks. Edina City Council members adopted the policy because they believe that tobacco use in park areas is detrimental to the health of people using the park system and can be offensive to those using recreational facilities. They also felt the tobacco-free policy provides the opportunity to change community norms around tobacco use and will help reduce youth tobacco use. In addition, the tobacco-free policy complements Edina Public Schools’ tobacco-free grounds policy. All 40 parks, including recreational facilities such as Braemar Golf Course and Centennial Lakes Park, are included in the policy. Other cities in the area that prohibit tobacco use in park areas include Bloomington, Eagan, New Brighton and Richfield. For more information on Edina’s tobacco-free park policy, contact Park and Recreation Director John Keprios, 952-826-0430. For more information on the enforcement of the County smoking ban in food establishments, contact the Health Department, 952-826-0370. 19•SPRING 2005 Whether they sing in the Chamber Chorale or the larger group, members appreciate the chance to sing in the Edina Chorale. Ed Schwartzbauer, 70, a retired lawyer, started singing in high school. He enjoyed music so much he eventually sang with several church choirs, including one at Colonial Church of Edina where he was a member when he first heard the Edina Chorale perform. “I was impressed by a concert I saw and I decided to join,” said Schwartzbauer, who joined the Chorale two years ago. “It gives me the opportunity to sing.” Members of the Edina Chorale range in age from late 20s to early 70s, and they are not all from Edina. Barbara Fellker, membership chairwoman of the Edina Chorale, said the Chorale is constantly looking for new members. When the Chorale started, interested singers were not required to audition, but Fellker said the increased popularity of the group has made auditions necessary. Members commit to practicing every Tuesday night except during the summer months and winter holidays. Fellker said her time with the Edina Chorale has been a fun way to learn about music. “There is a variety of styles of music and good camaraderie within the group,” Fellker said. “We just have a lot of fun.” For information about tickets or membership, call Fellker, 952-929-2813. For information about donating to the Edina Chorale, call Turk, 763-253-0930. 18•SPRING 2005 contemporary or classical music and this past year were held at Wayzata Community Church and Ridgewood Church in Minnetonka respectively. The Chorale performs in other communities in an effort to entertain the greater metropolitan area, instead of confining its music to Edina. The May concert is normally a cabaret-style event with round tables, hors d’oeuvres, wine, coffee and dessert and features Broadway or pop music. This year, the concert, “I’ve Got Music!,” will be held at the Eden Prairie City Center, 8080 Mitchell Road, May 13 and 14 and will feature the music of George Gershwin, Cole Porter and Jerome Kern. “The May concert is meant to be a fun spring party,” said Paulson, who selects the music for the concerts and decided on snappy pieces such as “Strike up the Band,” “Embraceable You,” “I’ve Got Rhythm” and “Old Man River.” Paulson said the Chorale sings a broad range of musical styles in order to challenge the group members and please audiences with a wide range of tastes. “We sing everything from Bach to Broadway,” Paulson said. Like all of its concerts, the May concert will feature the Edina Chorale’s Chamber Chorale. The Edina Chamber Chorale comprises some of the more experienced members of the Edina Chorale who audition to be part of the 20- to 25-member group. Paulson created the Chamber Chorale in 1998 to give more experienced members a chance to sing more challenging musical pieces. At each Edina Chorale concert, the Chamber Chorale sings three to four musical pieces. As President of the Edina Chorale, part of Turk’s job is overseeing the finances of the group, which is a nonprofit organization. In order to pay for its music, director, rehearsal hall and performance venues, accompanying musicians and other expenses, members pay a $50 membership fee each semester. The group also raises money with raffles and by selling advertising space in its concert programs. Turk said money also comes from ticket sales, the Chorale’s holiday caroling expeditions in the Edina area and grants from different community organizations. Members of the Edina Chorale review notes and music during weekly rehearsals at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n 20•SPRING 2005 VISIT OUR NEW STATE OF THE ART FACILITY: 7705 Bush Lake Road ~ Edina, MN 55439 952-941-8601 GENUINE GRANITE COUNTERTOPS ~ SOAPSTONE SINCE 1896 The largest in-stock inventory in the Twin Cities!www.northwesternmarble.com OPEN: Monday-Thursday 8:30AM-7:00PM Friday 8:30AM-4:30PM Gentle Imaging for People Who Deserve to be Treated Well Southdale 6525 France Avenue Phone 952.215.4320 Edina 3955 Parklawn Avenue Phone 952.285.3700 www.consultingradiologists.com Consulting Radiologists Imaging gives you personal attention from people who want to make you comfortable. And you also receive world-class diagnostic imaging, interpretation and pain management from Minnesota’s premier subspecialty radiology group.When you want to know what’s going on inside, come to us. Werness Brothers Funeral & Cremation Services (612) 927-8641 Werness Brothers Funeral & Cremation Services (612) 927-8641 Free Pre-planning Information (612) 922-1932 Serving Minneapolis • Edina • Bloomington Service Beyond Expectation Since 1934 Free Pre-planning Information (612) 922-1932 Serving Minneapolis •Edina •Bloomington Service Beyond Expectation Since 1934 21•SPRING 2005 City To Say Thanks At Annual Reception Good deeds are performed in the community for the benefit of all of Edina. In Edina, nearly 70 community organizations add to the beauty, culture and recreational opportunities that bring many new residents and visitors to the City. Each year, the City sets aside an evening to focus on the efforts of its service clubs and recognize the individuals who have devoted time and energy to better the community. As part of Edina’s Annual Volunteer Recognition Reception, many volunteers will be recognized 5 p.m. Thursday, April 14, at Edinborough Park. At the reception, each organization will be given the opportunity to recognize its own exemplary volunteers in a public setting. More than 25 community organizations are expected to participate in this year’s event. In addition, Mayor James B. Hovland will announce this year’s recipients of six Mayor’s Commendation Awards. The categories are: Mayor’s Service Club Commendation Awarded to a club or organization that has made outstanding contributions to the community through its regular activities or through special projects. The Edina Optimists’ Club, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary as “a friend of youth,” was last year’s recipient. Mayor’s Outstanding Senior Commendation Awarded to a senior citizen for outstanding volunteer service within the community. The 2004 award was given to Harold Westerberg for his involvement in volunteer activities at the Southdale YMCA, where he was a charter member of the Southdale Y’s Men’s Club. Mayor’s Youth Commendation Awarded to a young person who has demonstrated a commitment to improving the quality of life in the community. Will Amundson received the distinguished award in 2004. Amundson organized a volunteer fair dubbed “Volunteer Connections” in the fall of 2003 and was an active member of the Youth Development/Youth Service Advisory Council, Edina Community Education Services Board and Edina Key Club. Mayor’s Community Involvement Commendation Awarded to a City employee for outstanding volunteer service to the community, above and beyond his or her position with the City. Police Chief Mike Siitari received the 2004 award for his service to the Kiwanis Club of Edina. Mayor’s Connecting With Kids Commendation Awarded to an individual or organization making a positive impact in the lives of youth. The Connecting With Kids Commendation is a new award in 2005. The community is invited to attend the 2005 Volunteer Recognition Reception and applaud the extraordinary efforts of Edina’s volunteers. For more information or to make a reservation, call Human Services Coordinator Susan Heiberg, 952-826-0403. 23•SPRING 200522•SPRING 2005 City Of Edina To Flush Hydrants In April West 50th and Vernon Avenue at Hwy.100 952-920-3996 www.washburn-mcreavy.com Family Owned & Operated Since 1857 EDINA CHAPEL FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES CallTed Field 952-927-1150 www.SeniorExpert.com 30+ years experience working with seniors To purge rust and stagnant water from the water distribution system and identify hydrants in need of maintenance, the Utilities Division of the City of Edina’s Public Works Department will flush hydrants for two weeks in April. Random hydrants are also flushed throughout the year as weather and water demand allow. Hydrant-flushing with take place 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. In an attempt to minimize the impact on residents, hydrants will be flushed on the east side of Minnesota Highway 100 the week of April 11 and on the west side of the highway the week of April 18. Due to the hydrant flushing, it is inevitable that some residents will receive rust-colored water that could stain laundry, but it is safe to drink. You should check for signs of discoloration prior to washing clothes. If the water is discolored when you turn on your tap, simply run the water until it is clear. Because the water system is a “single-pressure zone,” it is possible that red water problems will occur in any area of the City while flushing is occurring. For more information regarding hydrant flushing, call the Utilities Division at 952-826-0375 or 952-826-0312 or visit the City’s website, www.CityofEdina.com. Practicing high quality medical, surgical and dental care Early mornings, evenings and Saturday hours 612.925.1121 4339 France Avenue South, Minneapolis 55410 wagsandwhiskers.com “They’re our best friends too!” For All Your Estate & Moving Needs 24•SPRING 2005 25•SPRING 2005 By Jeanne K. Hanson Contributing Writer Every Edina resident is better informed, and lots more attractive, than the muck-snuffling, bottom-snacking carp that share our lakes and ponds. Yet these fish are privy to some important information that few humans know: The City storm sewer system connects each street directly to the nearest body of water and links our waterways together. (The carp use this knowledge of underground connections to swim from one lake, pond or creek to another.) Our storm sewer system is not always well understood. People think that soapy water (from washing a car or a dog) running down their driveway to the storm sewer drain creates no problem. The same, they believe, with pesticide- laden lawn sweepings, dog wastes, fall leaves and grass clippings – they assume the water is cleaned at the sanitary water treatment plant. Not so. Only sewage proceeds, through separate pipes, to a treatment plant. Everything else that washes into the storm sewer openings flows right into the nearest body of water. The City has installed gratings and, in some storm sewer drains, more elaborate filters, but even these clog. Both the Nine-Mile Watershed District (which covers mostly southern Edina) and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (which covers mostly northern Edina) have done public education, as has the Conservation League of Edina. Yet most people are hardly aware of the storm drain on their block. Each of us can make a difference. If every Edina resident took the following steps, our creeks, ponds, lakes and wetlands would be 10 to 20 percent cleaner. •Don’t wash your car in your driveway (the lawn is OK) or allow mobile pet-grooming services to drain soapy water toward the street unless the soap is both phosphorous-free and nitrogen-free. •Mulch or compost your grass clippings and leave them in your own yard. Otherwise, they will “fertilize” the lake. Mulch, compost or bag your own leaves, too. •Yard and garden products and dog feces should be kept off your driveway and sidewalk. •Dump nothing in a storm sewer, ever. If our waterways can avoid polluting stormwater run-off and the resulting growth of excessive algae, they will look more beautiful. And, in them can swim fish far prettier than the wily carp. Hanson is an author and Edina resident. Nine Mile Creek Watershed District’s LuAnn Tolliver also contributed to this article. “Edgewater Eight” will perform this summer as a fundraiser for the Edina Golden K Kiwanis Club and Edina Senior Center. The concert will be held 7 p.m. Friday, June 10, at the Eisenhower Community Center Theater in Hopkins. The concert will be held in Hopkins because of construction and renovations under way at Edina schools. Edgewater Eight is a group that entertained nightly at the Edgewater Inn in Minneapolis during the 1970s and 80s. The band was revived three years ago to play for audiences at venues in the area such as the Old Log Theater, Chanhassen Dinner Theater, Sheldon Theatre and Medina Entertainment Center. The June concert, “The Music We Remember,” will include medleys designed to lift spirits and jog memories with “Tribute to the Big Bands,” music from the Kraft Music Hall and songs such as “Cool Water,” “If I Didn’t Care,” “Moments to Remember” and many others from the 40s and 50s. The band’s “Sentimental Journey” medley is always an audience favorite. Accompaniment is provided by keyboard, saxophone, bass and drums, led by Ron Seaman. The producer is Dominic Castino, an Edina resident and member of the original Edgewater Eight. The Golden K Kiwanis Club and Senior Center hosted a similar concert last year. With 1,500 members and a variety of activities, the Edina Senior Center offers something for everyone 55 and older. At its facility in Grandview Square, the Senior Center hosts recreational, educational, health and social service events. Edina Golden K Kiwanis is a service club with a membership of about 75 mostly retired people from the Edina area. The group contributes to the support of local organizations such as Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People, Edina Chemical Awareness and the Edina A Better Chance Foundation. Tickets for the concert cost $15 each and can be purchased now at the Edina Senior Center or at the door the night of the event. For more information on the upcoming concert, call the Edina Senior Center, 952-833-9570. Senior Center,Kiwanis Club To Sponsor Summer Band Concert What Every Carp In Edina Knows … But You May Not The Edgewater Eight includes Cheryl Morrissey, Bob Hupfer, Jackie Steele, Woody Woodward, Gary Kortemeier, Producer Dominic Castino, Pat Peterson and Roxy Britz. Adolfson & Peterson ....................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Think Federal Credit Union........Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Gray Plant Mooty............................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Edina Community Foundation ........................City Hall Open House Entertainment Sponsorship Fort Snelling ......................................“The Perfect Show” sponsorship Those who made donations of $1,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2004 were: Kiwanis Golden K. Foundation ....Edina Senior Center for podium, plaques, frames Ron and Sandy Clark ..................................................Edina Art Center Edina Rotary........................................“The Perfect Show” sponsorship Eden Prairie Foundation ................“The Perfect Show” sponsorship Elin Ohlsson ..................................................................Edina Art Center Education Foundation of Bloomington ............“The Perfect Show” sponsorship B“ZZ” Danceline............Edina Senior Center for kitchen remodeling Robert and Gwen Larson ................Edina Senior Center for desktop projector Henry and Marjorie Basil................Edina Senior Center for desktop projector Excel Bank ......................................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Grandview Tire and Auto............Fourth of July Parade sponsorship North American Banking Co.....Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Fairview Southdale Hospital ......Fourth of July Parade sponsorship R.F. Moeller Jeweler......................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship St. Edwards Tithing & Outreach..“The Perfect Show” sponsorship Kiwanis Club..................................................Youth Recreation Program Those who made donations of $3,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2004 were: U.S. Trust Company......................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Minnesota Regional Arts Council........................“The Perfect Show” sponsorship Transportation Resource to Aid ........................“The Perfect Show” Independent Living sponsorship Gabberts............................................Centennial Lakes Park Lighthouse Night fireworks Those who made donations of $5,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2004 were: Edina Morningside Rotary ..............Edina Senior Center for kitchen remodeling Carolyn Bollhoefer ........................................Edina Art Center for Tang Dynasty style horse sculpture Those who made donations of $10,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2004 were: Fairview Southdale Hospital ..........................................Fourth of July fireworks display Edina Rotary Foundation, Inc.......................Edina Senior Center for kitchen remodeling For more information on donations made in 2004 or to make a donation to the Park and Recreation Department, contact John Keprios, 952-826-0430. 26•SPRING 2005 More Than $90,000 Donated To Park And Recreation Department In 2004 27•SPRING 2005 Parks and other such amenities greatly improve the quality of life in a community. The City of Edina is the fortunate recipient of many donations each year that improve its parks, adding to the quality of life enjoyed here. In the year 2004, $90,725 in donations was received. “The City of Edina wishes to extend thanks and appreciation to all those who made contributions to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in the year 2004,” said Park and Recreation Director John Keprios. Those who made donations of $300 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2004 were: Allen Wehr.....Park bench at Williams Park in memory of Jon Cornwell Braemar Mens’ Club..............................Braemar Golf Memorial Fund Judge Jill Flaskamp Halbrooks ............Park bench at Arden Park in memory of Betty Ann Flaskamp Katie Bredesen ........................................Park bench at Bredesen Park in memory of Chuck Bredesen Mary Ann Okner............................................................Edina Art Center Tim Wilmes ..............................................Edina Art Center for enlarger and dark room equipment Rhinestone Rockettes........Edina Senior Center for kitchen cupboards Those who made donations of $500 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2004 were: Char Kemp................................................Braemar Golf Memorial Fund in memory of Jack Kemp Edina Morningside Rotary Club..Edina Art Center ScholarshipFund Muryece E. Fossey..................................Braemar Golf Memorial Fund in memory of Dean A. Fossey Lois Smith ......Braemar Golf Memorial Fund in memory of Bill Smith Edward Izmirian..............Braemar Golf Memorial Fund in memory of Clara Izmirian Guy Pontius ..........................................................Grandview Square Park Dr. Jeffrey Sharkey........Edina Art Center in memory of Kay Sharkey Michael F. Kelly ................................................................Edina Art Center Claire Schwanebeck ........................................................Edina Art Center Park Nicollet Heart Center ..........................................Edina Art Center Bradley J. Pester/Morgan Stanley ............................Edina Art Center Thomas W. Osborn ........................................................Edina Art Center M. Joan Hodges................................................................Edina Art Center Jerry’s Enterprises........................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Xcel Energy ......................................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Christensen & Laue......................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Galleria ..............................................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Key Cadillac ....................................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Cornelia Place Apartments ......Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Southdale Osteopathic Clinic ....Fourth of July Parade sponsorship ReMax Results - Skip Thomas ..Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Ellingson & Ellingson, Ltd.........Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Edina Bike and Sport ..................Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Edina Cleaners & Launderers....Fourth of July Parade sponsorship 50th & France Business &............Fourth of July Parade sponsorship Professional Association 29•SPRING 200528•SPRING 2005 Thos. G. Grace Advisors Fee Only Investment Advisory Experience Service Performance Innovation Integrity Discipline 7400 Metro Boulevard • Suite 100 • Edina, MN 55439 Tel: (952) 746-6777 • e-mail: trgrace@thosgrace.com CCeenntteennnniiaall LLaakkeess OOffffiiccee PPaarrkk A community for business Centennial Lakes is proud to be part of your community! How often does your business address also become a place for entertainment,retail and shopping? At Centennial Lakes Office Park,those amenities are just a short walk away. CCoonnttaacctt uuss aatt:: 995522--883377--88440000 7650 Edinborough Way, Suite 20, Edina, MN 55435 Contact Us to Build Wealth Now. My Home Mortgage Edina 4445 West 77th Street(952)224-5670 www.myhomemn.com Free Classes in Credit Repair,Mortgage Transactions, Wealth Management,1st Time Home Purchases, and Real Estate Investment. Edina PlasticSurgery, Ltd. 952-925-1765 |www.edinaplasticsurgery.com 6525 France Avenue South |Suite 300|Edina — in the Southdale Medical Center The Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgery Specialists Smile when you look in the mirror. Call us today. Coverage for backups of sewers and basement drains is available, but not always included in a basic homeowner’s insurance policy. In addition, insurance companies that do offer the protection have varying amounts of coverage. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if you have coverage for backups. If you do not have coverage, consider adding to your policy because in most cases the City’s insurance will not cover your damages in the event of an incident. For moreinformation, call Edina Public Works, 952-826-0311. DO YOU have insurance for sewer back-ups? Check your policy today! 31•SPRING 200530•SPRING 2005 • On June 3-5, the summer schedule begins with the Art Fair sponsored by the 50th & France Business & Professional Association. The show features more than 375 local and national artists and is attended by some 60,000 people. • On June 13, the members of the Edina Model Yacht Club share their hobby with the community in the perfect location for their Parade of Boats at Centennial Lakes Park. In August, the Yacht Club will hold its nighttime show, Lighthouse Night,which will include a performance by Edina’s community band, The First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, and fireworks. • The next big event on the summer schedule is a classic 4th of July celebration, starting with a parade down 50th Street from the City Hall to Halifax Avenue. A very popular fireworks display follows a First John Philip Sousa Memorial Bandconcert that evening near the Aquatic Center. • Summer also brings many golf tournaments to our community, utilizing the superb facilities at Braemar Golf Course. The Edina Morningside Rotary Club will host one on July 13, and an Edina Chamber of Commerce tourney is scheduled for Sept. 16. Both Braemar and Fred Richards golf courses also offer open play and golf leagues during the golf season. • Centennial Lakes Park also has a full schedule of summer activities, including frequent band concerts, lawn bowling, and an 18-hole putting course with natural grass greens. • The Edina Crime Prevention Fund will host its annual Fall into the Arts Festival at Centennial Lakes Park Sept. 10 and 11, with more than 175 artists expected for this juried art show. Participants can enjoy food and drinks at a “Tavern on the Lake” operated by the Edina Art Center. • Another event to watch for is the “Taste of Edina,” that brings together at one location the food and wine specialties of Edina Chamber of Commerce members. • Besides the spectacular Edina Art Fair, the 50th & France Business & Professional Association hosts other community events during the year. One of the favorites among the community’s children is Pumpkin Festival. Children trick-or-treat the businesses in downtown Edina and enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides with a storyteller aboard. • The Edina Community Foundation does its part to get the holiday season under way with the Holiday Home Tour.The “first annual” tour last December featured three superbly decorated and classic homes in the Country Club neighborhood, with treats and bus service to the homes from City Hall. The 2005 Tour is planned for Dec. 2 and 3, with another one of Edina’s premier neighborhoods to be featured. Edina Community Foundation – A Guide To Living In Edina By Dick Crockett Executive Director What do you mean when you say that you live in Edina? We generally intend to describe where our residence is, although we may not mean much more than that we sleep in those homes—and in Edina—at the end of a workday. That’s especially true for residents in a large metropolitan area with many jobs, cultural and entertainment offerings beyond our suburban borders. In order to really “live” in Edina, you might want to take advantage of the many activities throughout the year that make this an exciting and interesting community. • You might celebrate spring by taking advantage of the outdoor opportunities at Edina’s many public parks, including 2.2-mile hiking and biking paths at Bredesen Park, a 1.4-mile walking path around the water at Centennial Lakes Park, and a 1.1-mile path around Lake Cornelia at Rosland Park. Rosland also offers a disc golf course and the Aquatic Center with a full summer schedule of swimming lessons and public use. • On April 14, our community commitment to volunteerism is celebrated at the annual Volunteer Recognition Reception in Edinborough Park, an indoor facility that is well worth a visit. Our Mayor will be giving commendations for several categories of volunteer service and community involvement. In addition, our Foundation and some 20 other civic organizations will be honoring the key volunteers responsible for making their programs successful. • The Braemar-City of Lakes Figure Skating Club hosts its 40th Anniversary Ice Show at Braemar Arena on April 29 and 30. This year’s ice show will highlight the best music from television, movies, Disney, and Broadway from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and today. • On May 7 and 8, the Edina Garden Council’s annual Plant Sale will take place at Arneson Acres Park, with donated plants from the members of seven different garden clubs available for purchase. The Council donates proceeds from this sale to an Edina Community Foundation Fund for the replacement of the fountain that serves as an attractive focal point for the many outdoor weddings and other events held at Arneson Acres. • Also in May, our Foundation hosts its annual Donors Reception in our new City Hall to honor residents and other citizens of Edina who have made major gifts to the Foundation as Community Builders, Community Benefactors, or as members of its Founder’s Club. Foundation leaders and grant recipients combine to celebrate the impact of the Foundation’s work in Strengthening Our Community. S TRENGTHENING O UR C OMMUNITY (continued on next page) 33•SPRING 200532•SPRING 2005 • Early next year, Centennial Lakes Park will host its annual Winter Ice Festival,which includes a variety of family wintertime activities, most free and open to the public. Visitors to the park will be able to ice skate, have their faces painted for a small fee and ride on a horse-drawn wagon. The event is typically held the second Sunday of the year. • Also early next year, when the doldrums of winter set in, indoor Edinborough Park will hold its Midwinter Beach Party for families. A variety of upbeat musicians and artists will provide summertime entertainment for families and kids of all ages. Children can play in a giant indoor sandbox or an inflatable jumper. In addition to these community-wide events, Edina is blessed with many active neighborhood associations that offer a wide variety of activities and events to help their members enjoy “living in Edina.” The most active of these in 2005 is the Morningside Neighborhood Association, which is celebrating its centennial with a special event every month of the year. Our Foundation is committed to developing a sense and spirit of community in Edina, and we help raise funds through charitable contributions to support several of these associations. We also welcome the opportunity to receive contributions for other nonprofit organizations whose purpose is consistent with our mission to make Edina a premier place for living, learning, raising families, and nurturing leadership through the development of a strong program of philanthropy. For many who call Edina their home, it is a wonderful base from which to enjoy the Twin Cities metropolitan area and greater Minnesota. We also have the potential, however, to enjoy “living” here more by participating in some of the many opportunities like those mentioned above. Enjoy your community! The office of the Edina Community Foundation is located at 5280 Grandview Square, Edina, MN 55436. Contact Crockett at 952-833-9573 or edfoundation@ci.edina.mn.us. The Edina Community Foundation Board of Directors includes: President James B. Hovland, Al Alexander, Otto Bang, Grethe Langeland Dillon, George Klus, Dennis Maetzold, Frederick S. Richards, Jr., Kevin Ries, Carolyn Schroeder, James Van Valkenburg, and Geof Workinger.612.920.4050 • 7615 Metro Boulevard (Hwy.100 &77th Street)Edina • www.spabellacasa.com Bloom Energize Renewal Rest Midwinter Beach Party Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n 34•SPRING 2005 35•SPRING 2005 Collaboration Of High School Students Benefits Community By Kathleen Sovell Contributing Writer Six Edina High School graduates not only made their mark on the Class of 2004, but one at the Edina Art Center. Under teacher Josh Grenier’s direction, Sam Barr, Alyssa Buratti, Megan Hamilton, Ari Holloway-Nahum, Sam Michael and Sarah Olsen conceived the idea, wrote the proposal, created and sold pots to raise more than $3,000 to buy materials and build and fire a wood-fired kiln at the Edina Art Center. Instead of attending regular classes in May, Edina High School students may propose to pursue something they find interesting. Grenier participated in a wood-kiln firing in the summer of 2003, filmed the event and showed the video to his students. After viewing the movie, the six students were very interested and proposed to build a wood-fired kiln and raise the money for the project. Their teachers accepted the “May term” proposal in November 2003. However, this project was so ambitious, the youth spent most of the year working on it. Wood-fired kilns use an ancient method of firing pottery. Wood-fired kilns exist all over the world and have recently become more popular in the United States. The kiln is fueled with wood instead of gas or electricity. The burning wood creates an atmosphere around greenware or bisqued clay filled with ash and soot that melts and adheres to the pots, forming a natural glaze. The students worked together as a team and each one’s special talents were necessary to ensure the success of the project. “These six students were a rare group of people,” said Grenier. “It wouldn’t have happened if any of them were not a part of it. They all brought something different to the project and these individual strengths made it happen.” Hamilton was the “idea generator.” Hamilton contacted the Art Center to propose building the kiln at the Center and the Fire Department to find out if a special permit was required. She also prepared the application and forms for the proposal. The business side was the specialty of Olsen and Buratti. They worked at the St. Louis Park Byerly’s and spoke to their manager about selling the group’s pottery there. Byerly’s agreed and gave them an area to use for their pottery sale. They raised $2,500 by selling the group’s bowls and mugs for $10 or $20 each. The entire amount raised went to the students. They raised another $500 with other fund-raisers, including the High School plant sale, to bring the total to $3,000. Holloway-Nahum created 80 percent of the pottery that was sold. He took a pottery class in his junior year and was hooked. He enjoyed it so much that he threw clay every day after school and whenever he had time after class. He’s in college now and throws a couple of hours every day for fun. Barr and Michael were the kiln experts. Michael fired all the pottery throughout the year, loading and unloading the kiln at school. Barr designed the wood kiln. He wasn’t as interested in the production of pots as the construction and the technicalities of firing. Barr’s father, a ceramist, helped weld the frame of the kiln. The group chose to build the kiln at the Art Center to create collaboration between the Center and the High School. Grenier explained, “I like the fact that it made a connection between the High School and the Art Center. We’ve met many people at the Center and they are so welcoming. Our students will continue to go there in the future so it is not a one-time event.” The first firing of the new kiln was in June, but was unsuccessful. After stoking the fire for 12 hours, they were not able to get the temperature even close to the goal of over 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit. A three-foot stovepipe added to the chimney gave extra draft and the Art Center provided better insulation. With a different starting technique, the second firing was a success. “From the students’ viewpoint, they’ve left a legacy and are very proud,” Grenier said. “The kiln will continue to be fired by future high school students as well as Art Center students.” Visit the Art Center’s website, www.EdinaArtCenter.com for a complete class and event listing or call 612-915-6600 for information, to request a class schedule or register for classes. The Edina Art Center is located on the northwest corner of Rosland Park (formerly Lake Cornelia Park.) The stack glows on top of the Art Center’s new wood-fired kiln. The kiln must be at least 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit to fire pottery. Under teacher Josh Grenier’s direction, Sam Barr, Alyssa Buratti, Megan Hamilton, Ari Holloway-Nahum, Sam Michael and Sarah Olsen built a wood-fired kiln at the Edina Art Center last summer. 37•SPRING 200536•SPRING 2005 and certifies their credentials in advance so they can respond quickly to an emergency without needing to register or wait for background checks. To enroll in the MRC-HC, volunteers must live in Hennepin County. Everyone who volunteers must participate in six hours of orientation and training and an annual refresher course. Participation in one activation or exercise is required each year as well. Depending on how much a volunteer wants to get involved, there are also other opportunities such as educating the public about MRC-HC or being a team leader or liaison. The idea for the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) was born in 2002 as one of President George W. Bush’s initiatives to improve the nation’s emergency preparedness after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The MRC also supports the president’s commitment to getting citizens involved in public service. The program is part of the Citizen Corps, which is a division of the USA Freedom Corps volunteer organization. The MRC was created under the direction of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson and is currently a division of the Office of the Surgeon General. The Surgeon General’s office is actually responsible for the initial funding of Hennepin County’s MRC program. MRC-HC was the only program in Minnesota to receive funding from the Surgeon General’s first grant cycle in 2002. The Surgeon General grant for Hennepin County Public Health will run out in September, but MRC-HC plans to find other ways to continue the program. MRC-HC was created as a partnership between the Hennepin County Public Health Department, the Minneapolis Department of Health and Family Support and the Hennepin County Medical Center. Currently, the program is a division of the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Unit in the Hennepin County Human Services and Public Health Department. There are now nine other MRCs in development in the State. Public health departments in Anoka, Carver, Clay, Dakota, Ramsey, Scott, Steele and Washington counties and the University of Minnesota are organizing local MRCs. For more information about MRC-HC or to volunteer, call 952-351-5234 or visit www.mrc-hennepin.org. Health Professionals Are Prepared To Be Heroes By Lelan Bosch Hennepin County Public Health is prepared to address the public health needs of its entire population -- even in the direst situations -- using a model of volunteerism. The Medical Reserve Corps of Hennepin County (MRC-HC)is a collaboration of health professionals who volunteer to provide residents of the county with important public health and emergency care in case of a widespread public health emergency. A smallpox outbreak from a bioterrorist attack would require all Hennepin County residents to be immunized within four days. “Hennepin County has more than 1.1 million people,” said Kathryn Cook, Principal Planner and Program Manager for MRC-HC. “That’s as many people as pass through the State Fair in 10 days. We would need to treat them all within four to five days if such an outbreak occurred.” In such a case, as many as 6,000 medical professionals would be needed to assist local public health to distribute vaccine or other medications. Local hospitals and their staffs would not be able to accommodate everyone. MRC- HC would supplement hospitals and on-duty staff during an emergency situation. Volunteers would not only be needed to distribute medications or vaccines to residents. Some might also be needed to assist with case contact investigations, operate telephones or organize volunteer support activities. Volunteers could work in hospitals to assist the staff or in off-site care locations. MRC-HC does not put its volunteers in disaster areas or “hot zones” where there is a high potential for harm. In addition to bioterrorism, one of the threats Hennepin County’s residents face is an influenza pandemic. Other examples of medical emergencies were the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreaks in China and Toronto in 2003. During the Toronto outbreak, it took 400 people to call the 7,000 people quarantined on a peak day. Cook said the program is constantly looking for licensed or formerly licensed medical professionals to volunteer. Nurses, nurse practitioners, nursing assistants, pharmacists, lab personnel, dentists, health educators and doctors are just a few of the people MRC-HC would like to see volunteer. Even social workers, language interpreters, data entry and transcription personnel, chaplains and retired health professionals could play a role during a disaster. MRC-HC also trains the volunteers 39•SPRING 200538•SPRING 2005 Premises Identification A UPS driver goes up and down your street, trying in vain to find your house in order to deliver a package. A local florist tries to deliver a bouquet of roses to your neighbor, but circles the block before being able to find her house. People such as the delivery truck drivers might have difficulty finding your homes because your street numbers are not clearly visible from the street. While small or obstructed house numbers could be annoying to delivery truck drivers, they could cost precious time in an emergency. In the winter, Edina Police and Fire personnel have all too often responded to a 9-1-1 call, only to be delayed in coming to aid because addresses are located on mailboxes buried in snow instead of on homes. According to the Minnesota State Building and Fire Code, “Approved numbers or addresses shall be provided for all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property.” City staff members interpret “plainly visible” as addresses on a home or business being visible from the street, not hidden by landscaping or other objects that may obstruct the numbers. Numbers should be visible day and night. Numbers should not be on doors or garage doors that are open at certain times, rendering them invisible. “Legible” means that the address can be read from the street. The color of the numbers should contrast the color of the home or business. Black numbers on a white house are very legible. Gold or shiny brass numbers on a light- colored home are just slightly legible during the day, but very difficult to read at night. Many homes have very small numbers and others have more ideal five- or six-inch numbers. Some homes have numbers in script that are very hard to read when searching for an address in an emergency. For more information on Premises Identification, contact the Edina Fire Prevention Bureau, 952-826-0378. Tree Brush During spring’s first storm, many tree branches and twigs fall to the ground. Such brush must be hauled away. However, the City does not pick up brush left at the curbside. Residents should contact a private contractor or refuse hauler for removal or dispose of the brush at an NRG Processing Solutions tree dump. For more information, contact Park Maintenance Superintendent Vince Cockriel, 952-826-0305. For NRG Processing Solutions hours of operation and locations, call 952-946-6999. Lawn Watering Spring rainfall can be unpredictable. In order to ensure an adequate water supply for late summer, Edina’s odd-even sprinkling policy goes into effect May 1 and continues through It’s Not Only Neighborly… It’s The Law Family Owned & Operated Since 1938 GOLDEN VALLEY HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING *FREE Duct Cleaning With Heating & Air Conditioning Installation *$25 OFF repairs *not redeemable with any other offers G VG V rrs TM August. Homes with even-numbered addresses may water their lawns on even-numbered dates of the week. Homes with odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered dates. So, the family living at 4532 Parkside Lane could water their lawn on even-numbered dates – May 2, 4, 6 and so on. If the weather becomes exceptionally dry for an extended period of time, additional water restrictions might be put into place. However, because residents have faithfully observed the odd-even sprinkling policy, the City has had very few water emergencies in the past. For more information, contact Utilities Superintendent Roger Glanzer, 952-826-0311. www.goldenvalleyhtg.com 763-535-2043 Paula Schwartz, AuD. Doctor of Audiology Board certified in Audiology Your hearing is too important to trust to just anyone.... Your hearing health is an integral part of your overall physical health and wellbeing. Hearing healthcare is best managed by both your primary care physician and your audiologist. If you are concerned about your hearing, ask your doctor or call us. To schedule an appointment call us at 952-831-4222 Edina • Minnetonka www.audiologyconcepts.com 41•SPRING 200540•SPRING 2005 Out With The Old:City To Begin Aggressive Street Reconstruction Program Reinvesting in the backbone of the community, the City of Edina has begun a more aggressive street reconstruction program. Because of the age of the City’s infrastructure, an increasing percentage of City streets need to be reconstructed on an annual basis. The majority of Edina streets are 35 years or older and have become brittle. According to City engineers, it is no longer cost effective to patch, fill cracks and seal coat those roadways. “The majority of streets in town are over 35 years old,” said City Engineer and Director of Public Works Wayne Houle. “It is just a matter of time before they rapidly deteriorate. In the past five years, we have seen more distress within pavements such as alligator cracking, edge cracking and potholes.” The City has completed approximately $500,000 in neighborhood street reconstruction projects each year for several years. Now, City staff has recommended $3 to $5 million in projects be completed annually to protect and improve the community’s infrastructure. “The next 10 to 15 years is the time to rebuild our infrastructure,” said Council Member Scot Housh. “It is a substantial investment, but we have to rebuild our roads – they are the backbone of our town.” Staff also believes that curb and gutter should be added in areas where it does not exist today to help alleviate storm water problems, reduce pavement failure and aid in street cleaning and snow plowing. Staff will also analyze the feasibility of other utility improvements, street lighting, sidewalks and potential burying of overhead utilities prior to the start of a street reconstruction project. Reconstruction projects proposed for 2005 include Halifax Avenue, Schaefer Road, Schaefer Circle, Bridge Lane, Townes Road and West 58th Street and South Harriet Park (West) and Sunnyslope neighborhoods. Mill and overlay projects include Dewey Hill Road, West 50th Street and Brookside Avenue. The City’s General Fund includes a $3.2 million budget for street maintenance for such things as seal-coating, patching, snow removal and street sweeping. For past street reconstruction projects, though, adjoining property owners have been assessed the full amount of those projects. Special assessments are payable over a 10-year period. The cost of these projects has increased dramatically within the past five years due to increased labor and oil costs. Many special assessments are estimated to be more than $7,000 and as high as $15,000 per property. As a result, the Edina City Council is considering a change in the City’s policy so that property owners are not as hard hit. The City Council will consider a new policy this spring after holding a public hearing. For more information on street reconstruction or the proposed special assessment policy, contact the City’s Engineering Department, 952-826-0371, or visit www.CityofEdina.com. City Of Edina Streets 43•SPRING 200542•SPRING 2005 45•SPRING 2005 grace.” Mac Lewis said he feels privileged to help people and observe their poise in an hour of need. Mac Lewis and Guilherme Schmidt, Portfolio Manager for Cargill Corporation in Minnetonka and Edina resident, each fly between four and six missions for AFC each year. Schmidt also finds the Angel Flight missions to be rewarding for pilots and passengers alike, but worries many eligible people are not benefiting from the program due to insufficient publicity. “A lot of people don’t know they have this service at their disposal,” Schmidt said. “The biggest issue is getting word out that this service is available.” It would be unfortunate for patients who are not aware of the service because the Angel Flight program can save patients a lot of money. Monthly travel costs for patients needing periodic treatment at distant hospitals can be well over $1,000. Because AFC is a grassroots organization, the responsibility of outreach rests on the shoulders of volunteers at the local level. When Mark Sullivan, Executive Compensation Consultant at RSM McGladrey, Inc., answered an AFC advertisement in an airplane magazine in 2001, he planned to volunteer as a pilot, but soon found a role organizing a local publicity program for AFC. AFC staff approached Sullivan and asked him to help establish a WING in the northern part of the region. A WING is a division of the 10-state AFC region that helps localize pilot recruitment and activities, passenger and community awareness, public relations and “Friend- Raising” duties. AFC has five WINGs including the NorthStar WING, which Sullivan helped establish in Minnesota and North and South Dakota in 2002. As leader of the NorthStar WING from June 2002 to 2004, Sullivan spoke to aviation students at the University of North Dakota and South Dakota State University in Brookings, visited air shows such as the Experimental Aircraft Association’s celebration in Oshkosh, Wisc., and performed other public relations duties to increase awareness of the Angel Flight program. Sullivan seemed to do a good job guiding outreach and recruitment efforts. The first meeting of the NorthStar WING in 2002 had about 40 pilots in attendance, he said. He estimated the present number of pilots in the three states at 140. About 100 of the pilots live in the Twin Cities, which is good, but it means there are few pilots in the rural parts of the WING. Sullivan would have liked more aviators covering rural Minnesota and the Dakotas, especially because of the popularity of the NorthStar WING as an Angel Flight destination. Patients come from all over the country for treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester and the Shriners Hospital and Children’s Hospitals and Clinics in the Twin Cities. Besides recruiting pilots, volunteers of the WINGs talk to health care professionals, social workers and patients and distribute brochures that let the public know Angel Flight 44•SPRING 2005 Some Local Pilots Only Fly First Class By Lelan Bosch For a young girl, the 237-mile journey from Sioux Falls, S.D., to Rochester, Minn., can seem especially long when the goal of the trip is to receive cancer treatment. Edina resident Gordy Lewis accelerated several of the girl’s monthly trips to the doctor by flying her in his own plane at no charge. He had to pay for his fuel, maintenance of his equipment and although Lewis, 77, is retired, flying still takes time out of his day. Still, something made all the trips worthwhile for him. “When I first started flying her, she was just a cue ball. She didn’t have any hair,” Lewis said about the girl, who lost her hair as a result of the treatments. “As she got better, her hair started growing back and she wondered how she was going to do her hair when she grew more.” For Lewis, the stories he can tell are the greatest benefit of flying someone to a medical appointment. Lewis has many stories because he flies passengers for medical purposes about 15 times per year as a volunteer pilot for Angel Flight Central, Inc. (AFC). AFC is part of Angel Flight America, Inc. (AFA), the managerial body guiding seven charitable aviation organizations across the nation. Each group comprises pilots such as Lewis who use private planes to transport people in need of medical treatment at no charge. AFC, based in Kansas City, Mo., is the regional branch covering Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. AFA has 5,000 volunteer pilots who all have stories to tell, and a few tales are told by the handful of Angel Flight pilots who live in Edina. Mac Lewis, General Partner of venture capital firm Sherpa Partners, volunteers his piloting skills for AFC and reminisced about a mission he performed some time ago. “The flight was right after the Batman movie came out,” Mac Lewis said about his mission flying a 9-year-old boy to his cancer treatment. “We were in the plane and he was Batman that day. He was full of energy.” Although Mac Lewis appreciated the child’s innocence and imagination, he said the mother’s character was even more remarkable as she flew with them. “She never seemed depressed,” Mac Lewis said. “She was just a picture of (continued on next page) Edina resident Gordy Lewis is one of about 100 Twin Cities pilots who volunteer their time and equipment to fly patients to and from area hospitals as part of Angel Flight America. 47•SPRING 2005 Dr.Alice Hulbert Named To Edina City Council Alice Hulbert was sworn in Tuesday, March 1, as the newest member of the Edina City Council. With his recent election as Mayor, James Hovland vacated his seat on the City Council mid-term. The Council in January voted to appoint someone to fill the remainder of the term, rather than hold a special election. Sixteen people applied for the position before the posted deadline in January. After the candidates were thoroughly interviewed, Hulbert was appointed to the two-year term at a special meeting of the City Council Feb. 24. “Alice Hulbert was an outstanding candidate for the City Council in the last General Election and we are pleased to have her join us as a colleague for the balance of my unexpired Council term,” said Hovland upon Hulbert’s appointment. “Alice is smart, articulate, thoughtful and cares deeply about our community -- all qualities which will serve our citizenry well as we deal with a variety of complex issues in the near future.” Hulbert is not a stranger to City Hall. She has served as a member of the Edina Park Board, an advisory group to the City Council. Her community involvement has included work with the Edina Girls Athletic Association, Adaptive Recreation & Learning Exchange, Hennepin County Medical Society and Arc Minnesota. “I have been a resident of Edina for 22 years and a long- term recipient of all of the excellent opportunities that come from living in this community,” said Hulbert, who is a licensed anesthesiologist. “This is a point in my life when I have the ability to contribute and serve the City. The City Council is a great group of people with whom I look forward to working.” For more information on the Edina City Council, call Edina City Hall at 952-927-8861 or visit www.CityofEdina.com. Hulbert can be contacted directly by calling 952-942-5615 or sending an e-mail to edinamail@ci.edina.mn.us. 46•SPRING 2005 is available for eligible people. To be eligible, passengers must prove a need for financial assistance and have a legitimate need for a flight. However, Angel Flight is not an emergency airlift service and is only for passengers in need of outpatient services who are in sufficient physical condition to travel in a plane. Angel Flight pilots transport adult or child patients and family or friends who want to accompany. Angel Flight volunteers who do not fly are known as Earth Angels, and there are several tasks they can perform besides pilot recruitment and passenger and community awareness. Some Earth Angels are even needed to drive passengers from the airports where pilots drop them off to the hospitals and clinics where they receive treatment. An Earth Angel who picks a passenger up at the airport can save the person the cost of a taxi ride. AFC never asks WING volunteers to solicit donations because it is the responsibility of the staff, said Shelley Wales, Office Manager and Volunteer Coordinator of AFC. Instead, WING volunteers are asked to do Friend-Raising by finding individuals or organizations that could be potential donors and refer their contact information to AFC. Mark Sullivan’s favorite uncle was a fighter pilot. He made his career in the Air Force and flew missions in Korea and Vietnam. Following in his uncle’s footsteps, Sullivan learned to fly, but he and the other Angel Flight volunteers fight for a different cause. They give hope to people in times of need by lending their angel wings. For more information about Angel Flight Central, or to donate or volunteer, call 877-621-7177 or visit angelflightcentral.org. COUPON $10.00Off a piano tuning Regular price $85.00 Please call Bill Dalhoff 952-368-9575 Not valid with other Discounts.Expires 06/30/05 Alice Hulbert Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n PIANO TUNING & SERVICE Bill Dalhoff • 1569 Bluebill Trail • Chanhassen, MN 55317 Phone: 952-368-9575