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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAboutTown_2008SpringAboutTown Magazine City of Edina 4801 West 50th Street Edina, MN 55424 www.CityofEdina.com AboutTown Official Magazine of the City of Edina ©COLOURS 2008 AWalk Through The Arts See Page 32 For Details SPRING•2008 PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 3932 Edina, MN ***ECRWSS*** POSTAL PATRON CAR-RT-WS 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:15 PM Page 1 AboutTown Volume 19, Number 2 Spring 2008 Official Publication of the City of Edina, Minnesota 4801 West 50th Street Edina, Minnesota 55424 952-927-8861 Circulation 25,000 Editor: Jennifer Bennerotte Contributing Writers: Marty Doll, Katelyn Nelson, Ryan Olsen and Joe Sullivan Publisher: City of Edina About Town is produced by the City of Edina. To advertise in About Town,call Marty Doll at 952-826-0396. Copyright 2008 by City of Edina, 4801 W. 50th St., 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 Libby Paster The Edina Chamber of Commerce Thursday, May 1, will host “Taste of Edina: Food, Wine & Community.” This event showcases the outstanding variety of fine restaurants in Edina as well as the superb wine selection and knowledgeable Edina Liquor staff. Taste of Edina, presented by TDS Metrocom, will be held 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. As in past years, “celebrity chefs” will cook at the event. Tickets are $25 each. Watch for discount coupons at all three Edina Liquor stores. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Edina Chamber of Commerce, 952-806-9060. Chamber To Host Taste Of Edina 1•SPRING2008 SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday 1 7 p.m., HRA& City Council, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Cathy &Tom, Edinborough Park. 23 Noon, The Wonderful World of Woody, Edinborough Park. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 4 5 6 7 p.m., St. Louis Park Community Band, Edinborough Park. 7 Spring classes begin at Edina Art Center. 8 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Jim Berner Stories &Songs, Edinborough Park. 910 Noon, Will Hale & The Tadpole Parade, Edinborough Park. 1112 13 8:30 a.m., Get Your Rear in Gear. Southdale Center. 7 p.m., Bend in the River Big Band, Edinborough Park. 14 5:30 p.m., Board of Appeal & Equalization, Edina City Hall. 15 7 p.m., HRA &City Council, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heybar International Dance, Edinborough Park. 16 7 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 1819 20 7 p.m., Somewhat Dixieland Band, Edinborough Park. 21 7 p.m., PGN Forum, “Friendships 101: Seeking & Maintaining Healthy Friendships, Countryside Elementary School. 22 11:30 a.m., City Council study session, Edina City Hall. 5 p.m., Volunteer Recognition Reception, Edinborough Park. 2324 Noon, Wiggle, Jiggle &Jam, Edinborough Park. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 2526 29 7 p.m., CCSeptet, Edinborough Park. 2827 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Edinborough Park. April 2008 30 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 17 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. About Town Calendar 2•SPRING2008 SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday 1 Noon, The Wonderful World of Woody, Edinborough Park. 4-7 p.m., May Day celebration and fountain unveiling, Edina Art Center. 2 3 4 7 p.m., South of the River Band, Edinborough Park. 56 7 p.m., HRA&City Council, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Jack Norton Blue Grass, Edinborough Park. 78 Noon, Bob the Beachcomber, Edinborough Park. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 910 11 7 p.m., Northern Winds Concert Band, Edinborough Park. 1213 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Videki Hungarian Dancers, Edinborough Park. 1416 7 p.m., The Edina Chorale Spring Cabaret Pops Concert, The Mahon Center at St. Patricks Church. 17 7 p.m., The Edina Chorale Spring Cabaret Pops Concert, The Mahon Center at St. Patricks Church. 18 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Edinborough Park. 1920 6:30 p.m., Community Health Committee, Edina Senior Center. 7 p.m., HRA&City Council, Edina City Hall. 21 7 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 22 Noon, Kristi’s Kids Songs, Edinborough Park. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 2324 27 11:30 a.m., City Council study session, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Human Rights &Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. . 26 MMeemmoorriiaall DDaayy.. MMoosstt CCiittyy ooffffiicceess cclloosseedd.. 25 7 p.m., Scott Fraser Guitar Duo, Edinborough Park. May 2008 28 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. Edina Family Center Camp Book Buddies begin (Session 1). 29 Noon, David Walbridge “The Big Fun Show,” Edinborough Park. 30 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 15 Noon, Brodini Comedy Magic Show, Edinborough Park. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 31 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. About Town CalendarTable of Contents Calendar Of Events..............................................................................1 Spring Calendar Highlights................................................................4 AWord From The Mayor ....................................................................5 Historic 142-Year-Old Edina Sly Family House Still Stands...................................................................6 Edina Public Schools Celebrate 25 Years Of Continuous Progress Program....................................................12 It’s Not Only Neighborly ... It’s The Law.......................................14 Edina Community Foundation: Youth Programs.............................16 Business Notes.............................................................................................18 63rd U.S. Women’s Open To Swing Through Edina.....................22 City Calls For Entries In Fifth-Annual Community Photo Contest .....................................................................26 City Of Edina To Flush Hydrants In April.......................................30 AWalk Through The Arts: City Begins Improvement Of Edina Promenade..............................32 New Coordinator Begins Work At South Metro Training Facility.................................................................36 Park And Recreation Department Works To Curb Vandalism.....38 Fairview Auxiliary Has Long Tradition Of Giving Back..............40 Edina Resident And Police Officer Promoted To Deputy Chief...............................................................44 Doll, Denfeld Begin Work In Communications & Marketing Department..................................................................48 More Than $60,000 Donated To Park And Recreation Department In 2007...........................................................................50 Summer Art Camps Promote Creativity And Good Health........52 City Of Edina Facilities .....................................................................53 Photo Gallery......................................................................................54 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:15 PM Page 3 A Word From The Mayor Speeding in residential neighborhoods represents the single greatest complaint to police departments and city council representatives throughout the United States, according to the National Safety Council. Edina is no exception. Speeding extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle. At 20 mph, the total stopping distance needed is 115 feet. At 30 mph, the distance needed is 200 feet. At 40 mph, the distance needed is 305 feet, which might not be enough distance and time for you to avoid hitting an object or person on the road. At night, when you can see only as far as your headlights (160 feet in front of your vehicle), the situation worsens. The effectiveness of restraint devices such as air bags and safety belts, and vehicular construction features such as crumple zones and side member beams, decline as impact speed increases. In some areas, it is not unusual for speeders to be clocked in excess of 40 mph in 30-mph zones. Speeding compromises our neighborhood livability by creating noise and air pollution, causing difficulties for pedestrians and bicyclists and, more importantly, jeopardizing everyone’s safety. Many motorists drive too fast on local streets. While some speeding is done by irresponsible drivers, many speeders are responsible drivers who are traveling on wide streets with long, straight sections of road. However, motorists often seek out local streets as alternate routes because they are short-cuts, which may save time or avoid delays, therefore creating cut-through traffic. In most cases, the majority of speeders on residential streets live in the neighborhood. That’s why community education is a critical step in the problem-solving process. The City is currently working to develop a speed awareness campaign dubbed “Be The Pace Car, Not the Race Car” that reminds motorists to check their speed and slow down as needed. Since we as drivers cause the problem of speeding in residential neighborhoods (and beyond), we must be actively engaged and committed to being the solution as well. Bumper magnets and “Be the Pace Car” window clings are now available both as a friendly reminder to slow down in a fast-paced world and an invitation to take personal responsibility for our driving behavior. Pick up your magnet or cling today at City Hall and help educate our community in responsible motoring. James B. Hovland Mayor 5•SPRING20084•SPRING2008 Other Dates to Remember April 3 Garden Art Show and Sale opens at Edina Art Center. April 17 7 p.m., Brodini Comedy Magic Show, Edinborough Park. April 22 7 p.m., Jazz on the Prairie, Edinborough Park. April 22 7:30 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. May 20 7 p.m., Lee Engle Jazz Band, Edinborough Park. May 22 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. May 27 7 p.m., Carol McCormick, Edinborough Park. June 3 7 p.m., Vintage Piano with Jim Shannon, Centennial Lakes Park. June 5 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. June 8 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Centennial Lakes Park. June 10 7 p.m., Sidewalk Café, Centennial Lakes Park. June 10 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. June 17 7 p.m., Vintage Piano with Jim Shannon, Centennial Lakes Park. June 19 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. June 19 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. June 24 7 p.m., Sidewalk Café, Centennial Lakes Park. Edina Garden Council Plant Sale What:The Edina Garden Council raises many of the plants to be included in the sale. Focus will be on plants for containers and small spaces. Also offered will be a wide variety of perennials and bulbs grown in the gardens of members. Proceeds will go toward projects to beautify City parks and horticulture scholarships through the Federated Garden Clubs of Minnesota. When:10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, May 9, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 10 Where:Arneson Acres Park Greenhouse, 4700 W. 70th St. Info:612-866-1116 Edina Art Fair What:The 50th & France Business & Professional Association will host the 42nd 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. to 7 p.m. May 30, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. May 31, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 1 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 15th-annual Parade of Boats. At the event, club members sail and race their model boats for everyone to view. Additional boats will also be displayed inside the nearby Centrum Building, where club members will demonstrate how model boats are built. When:11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 8 Where:Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. Info:www.emyc.org Spring Calendar Highlights 3•SPRING2008 SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday 1 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 7 p.m., South of the River Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 3 Noon, Wiggle, Jiggle Jam, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., HRAand City Council, Edina City Hall. 47 p.m., Good NewsBig Band, CentennialLakes Park. 5Noon, Rusty’sRocking Jamboree,Centennial LakesPark. 5 p.m., School ofRealism ExhibitOpening, Edina ArtCenter. 6 727 p.m., Southside BigBand, CentennialLakes Park. 8 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Parade of Boats, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 9 Summer classes begin at Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Debbie Bigelow and Dean Kleven (jazz and swing), Centennial Lakes Park. 10 Summer camps begin at Edina Art Center. Noon, Magician Matt Dunn, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 11 7 p.m., Bend in the River Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 12 Noon, Alpha Bits Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 1314 15 7 p.m., Robbinsdale City Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 16 7 p.m., Jazz on the Prairie, Centennial Lakes Park. 17 Noon, Wonderful World of Woody, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., HRA&City Council, Edina City Hall. 18 7 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Star of the North Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 2021 22 7 p.m., Northern Winds Concert Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 23 2008 U.S. Women’s Open begins, Interlachen County Club. 7 p.m., Celebration Brass, Centennial Lakes Park. 24 Noon, Backes Puppeteers, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Human Rights &Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 25 7 p.m., Zuhrah Shrine Flames, Centennial Lakes Park. 26 Noon, Bob the Beachcomber, Centennial Lakes Park. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 2728 30 7 p.m., Tango in the Park (lesson and dance), Centennial Lakes Park. 29 7 p.m., Stan Bann Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. June 2008 19 Noon, Brodini Comedy Magic Show, Centennial Lakes Park. 5 p.m., Student Show Opening, Edina Art Center. About Town Calendar 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:15 PM Page 6 Writing in History and Architecture of Edina, Minnesota, authors William W. Scott, A.I.A., and Jeffrey A. Hess stated: “The exact construction date of the Sly farmhouse is unknown, [but it is believed to have been built between 1866 and 1870].” In 1870, the federal census evaluated the Sly house at $4,800 and their land at $675. “Such a significant increase in … value [in four years] suggests that the Slys either … remodeled [an existing] dwelling or built a substantial new structure,” Scott and Hess concluded. “Not much is known about the activities of the Sly family on their new homestead,” Parsons wrote. “Obviously, they were hardworking farmers,” Parsons added. “A160- acre farm in the late 1800s was a formidable size without mechanized equipment.” In the Sly household, there were three grown men to handle the farm work and three grown women to handle the housework, cook, knit and sew. According to Parsons, “Sarah Sly died in 1885 and Gilbert [passed away] two years later.” The Sly family monument in Richfield’s Oak Hill Cemetery, at 59th Street and Lyndale Avenue, records the passings of Gilbert and Sarah, as well as those of three daughters—Mary, Martha and Fidelia—and two sons—William and Elisha, who are also interred there. The three Sly sisters and [their brother] William Sly “hung on” [to the farm] for some years. Martha died in 1894 and a 1988 Edina Sun-Current article reported that in the early 1900s, after the farm was sold, the two remaining Sly [sisters with William] moved to 50th Street and Ewing Avenue in southwest Minneapolis. Schack Families Bought Sly Farm And House Around 1900 Fidelia was listed as the owner of the farm until around the turn of the century. The Edina census of 1900 lists Michael and Hans Schack and their wives as owners of the farm and house. “It is probable that Fidelia … sold the farm, intact, to Michael Schack that year for $10,000,” Parsons stated. The Schack family operated the farm until 1924 when N.P. Dodge and his wife, Laura, purchased three-quarters of the Schack’s property. (A40-acre tract in the southwest 7•SPRING2008 By Joe Sullivan Contributing Writer According to Paul Hesterman’s History of Edina, Minnesota, Edina’s early pioneers, who settled in what was then west Richfield Township in the mid-to late 1850s and 60s, came from distinct groups. The largest of those groups was the “Cahill Irish,” Hesterman added. Their group was so-named because their farms were in the Cahill Settlement near today’s West 70th Street and Cahill Road. Many of them homesteaded farms in southwest Richfield along both sides of Nine Mile Creek’s north fork. A second major group consisted mainly of English and Scottish immigrant farmers. Many of them came to Minnesota from the state of New York to claim farms in the vicinity of a grist mill on Minnehaha Creek at what is now West 50th Street. Gilbert and Sarah Sly and their family were among those second-wave arrivals. In his History of Hennepin County, Edward D. Neill reported that Gilbert Sly was born in the state of New York on Nov. 4, 1798. He was married in 1822 to Sarah Crane, a native of Massachusetts. The Slys farmed in New York until 1866, when they decided to travel west to Minnesota, just eight years after it had become a state. Already 68 and 66 years of age respectively, Gilbert and Sarah brought with them five adult offspring: Mary, 42; Fidelia, 38; Elisha, 34; Martha, 32; and William, 26. In a 1993 About Town article, the late Edina resident and historian E. Dudley Parsons wrote: “On June 20, 1866, James and Margaret Davis sold 160 acres of land [located north of Lake Cornelia]—not to the elder Slys … as might be supposed, but to Fidelia, their second daughter. The price was $1,500. [To this day,] no one knows why the farm was registered in Fidelia’s name,” he added. Historic 142-Year-Old Edina Sly Family House Still Stands 6•SPRING2008 This map of the area surrounding the Sly farm is bounded by present-day West 54th and 66th streets, Minnesota Highway 100 and France Avenue. (As indicated, at one time, the Sly farm occupied much of the land that is now Edina’s Pamela Park.) The present-day Valley View shopping center is now located along the former south border of the Sly acreage. Today’s Crosstown Highway and Lake Cornelia were on the former Irwin and Coulter farms, south of the Sly’s farm. This undated photo of the original Sly farmhouse shows two young girls sitting on the grass in front of the living room on the main floor. To the left is what appears to be a front entrance. At the right is the rear entrance. Whitbeck family photo 1875 Tornado Destroyed Sly Family’s Barn In 1875, a tornado destroyed the Sly family’s barn, but the farmhouse was spared. After the storm blew over, neighbors reported a cow that had been in the barn also survived the tornado and was seen afterwards grazing peacefully in a nearby pasture. (continued on next page) 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:15 PM Page 9 Jen Sandbo wrote in a February 2007 Edina Magazine, article: “While attending an open house, Dick Whitbeck ran into an acquaintance’s wife who asked if he needed help finding a home.” Later, she contacted Whitbeck again and said, “This house is not on the market yet, but I think it’s the kind of house you’re looking for.” Jackie Whitbeck recalled her future husband, Dick, saying that when he drove in the driveway, “he knew immediately that this was the house.” Dick and Jackie Whitbeck were still single and dating at the time. But, knowing of Jackie’s interest in antiques and classic home designs, Dick called and suggested that she come over and take a look. She shared his enthusiasm for the house and, even before they could begin to research the house’s rich history, Dick bought it. Previous owners had updated parts of the old house, but the couple knew it still needed a lot of changes. Their first project was remodeling the dining room and kitchen in 1987. The dining room was separated from the small kitchen by a wall with a pass-through opening that allowed meals to be served direct from the kitchen. Jackie Whitbeck described the tiny kitchen, saying, “The space was so small, the cook could stand in one place and turn from side to side to use the stove, refrigerator and sink.” They tore the wall down, expanded the dining room into the former kitchen space and added French doors overlooking the wooded backyard. The former “summer kitchen” was also adjacent to the dining room. It was being used as a mud room when Jackie suggested to her designer that it might provide space for a new kitchen. He told her it couldn’t be done because the appliances wouldn’t fit. She decided to design the kitchen herself, using paper cutouts to place the appliances. “We just made it work,” she recalled. Sixteen years later, in 2003, the Whitbecks decided to pursue the second item on their list of remodeling projects—a lower level family room under the original living room. But there was no basement under the living room. An architect was commissioned to prepare drawings for the new space. When Jackie described the lower level room she wanted, the architect warned her it would require excavating a basement under the original living room. He told her it wasn’t feasible and presented several alternate plans. But Jackie didn’t think any of them “carried out the spirit of the old house,” as she put it. 9•SPRING2008 corner of the original 160-acre farm had been sold earlier and became part of the Haeg farm.) The Dodges platted the remaining 120 acres for residential development, naming it Fairfax. The development extended from Wooddale Avenue, east to the western boundary of Pamela Park, and from 60th to 62nd streets. In addition, the plat included an area between Concord and Wooddale Avenues from 60th to 61st streets. “The Fairfax development was not an instant success,” Parsons reported. “It was not until 1936 that [the Dodges] received the authority ‘to do business therein’.” The Sly/Schack house in the southeast corner of the old farm got its address—6128 Brookview Ave.—with the platting of the Fairfax development. According to a 1977 Edina Sun article, Marvin and Adeline Linboe—her friends called her “A”—bought the “old Sly house” and four adjacent lots in 1948. Two of the lots were sold to another party. The Lindboes bought the house because, after World War II, building materials for new houses were in short supply. “It only had a half-bath and the mice kept running out of it,” Adeline Lindboe recalled. But she persevered. Marvin and Adeline rearranged the inside walls to form eight rooms, including a kitchen and living room. They added an attached garage and dormer windows on the second floor to provide more light in the upstairs bedrooms. There was also a separate “summer kitchen” on the lot. They attached it to the house between the dining room and garage and poured a concrete floor. The Lindboes owned the house and property until 1954 when it was purchased by the Harlan Nygaard family. The house has had three owners since then, including the Fagerlie and Banks families and present owners Dick and Jackie Whitbeck, who bought it in 1984. 8•SPRING2008 (continued on next page) The dining room and kitchen were the first of the remodeling projects tackled by the Whitbecks. A wall that separated the two rooms was removed. The tiny kitchen, which was on the back side of the house, became part of the dining room and the French doors were added. Edina Magazine photo Blanket Made By Two Sly Sisters Was In 1988 Centennial Display In 1988, to celebrate the centennial of their independence, the residents of the modern City of Edina enjoyed a year- long calendar of special events. One of those events, held in the Great Hall of Edinborough Park, was an historic display of handmade quilts and blankets representing each of the ten decades of Edina’s then-100-year history. Included in this display was a rose and blue plaid blanket, woven with wool from sheep raised on the Sly family’s Edina farm. Carded, dyed, and spun into yarn by Fidelia and Mary Sly, the blanket had been given to the Sly’s new neighbor in Minneapolis as a “thank you” gift. The blanket is now on display at the Edina Historical Society Museum. A blanket woven by two Sly sisters from sheep’s wool raised on their farm is part of a permanent display at the Edina Historical Society’s Museum that recalls Edina’s pioneer Sly family. Polly Norman photo 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:15 PM Page 11 daughter, Jenna, is attending DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind., and her younger sister, Danielle, is a junior at Edina High School. “Despite extensive remodeling projects, the Sly house still has a look reminiscent of the original farmhouse,” Sandbo wrote. “It’s easy to see that it’s the original farmhouse because it’s the only one on the block that stands at a slight angle to the street.” Background material and photographs for this article came from the Whitbeck family’s photo collection; the files of the Edina Historical Society; 1986 notes on the Sly family grave marker by Harold Sand; a personal interview with Jackie Whitbeck and the following publications:History of Hennepin County, by Edward D. Neill; the 1895 Minnesota Census; Edina Magazine; Edina Sun-Current; Edina Sun; a printed program for the Edina Centennial;History and Architecture of Edina Minnesota, by William W. Scott, A.I.A., and Jeffrey A. Hess; and History of Edina Minnesota, by Paul D. Hesterman 11•SPRING200810•SPRING2008 Her heart was set on a basement family room, so she contacted Stubbs Building Movers, the company that had moved the old Schubert Theatre in downtown Minneapolis, two full city blocks to its present location on Hennepin Avenue. “If he could move the theater, then he could hold up my house,” Jackie said. When Larry Stubbs, the mover, came out and looked at the project his reaction was: “Yeah, I can do that.” The Whitbecks hired him to excavate the new lower level and engaged other contractors to build their new family room. It’s obvious that the Whitbecks love their old house. They are a typical bustling Edina family. Dick’s worldwide business as a musician/conductor of his band “Synergy” and provider of entertainment for corporate and social events means he has a busy travel schedule. Jackie is a violinist whose attention is now directed more to her career as a visual artist. In her studio near 44th Street and Beard Avenue in southwest Minneapolis, she specializes in portraits and still life oil paintings. Their oldest The Whitbeck family—(from left): daughters Jenna and Danielle, Jackie and Dick—enjoys the quiet of their basement family room. It features a stone fireplace, an entertainment center and wood bookcases. The full-length egress windows have window wells built with recycled boulders that once formed the house’s foundation. Edina Magazine photo The Sly family farmhouse as it appears today at 6128 Brookview Ave. It has stood on this site since after the Civil War, which ended in 1865. Historian/authors Scott and Hess wrote about the significance of the Sly house: “Despite such later additions as an attached garage [and] dormer windows … the building still manages to convey a sense of its pre-1870 origin.” Whitbeck family photo During excavation, the house was supported by heavy timber “cribs.” The contractor used small front-loaders to dig the hole for the new basement family room under the main floor living room. The family was advised “to walk very slowly” in the house, until a new foundation could be built. Pictured in the foreground are the Whitbeck’s daughters (from left) Danielle and Jenna. Whitbeck family photo The Sly house was the 2007 winner of the Edina Heritage Award, commending the Whitbeck family for “Excellence In Preservation.” Established by the city in 2003 to showcase “rehabilitation, restoration and use of Edina’s heritage resources,” the annual award goes to an individual, company or organization nominated by the general public with the final winner selected by the Edina Heritage Preservation Board. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:15 PM Page 13 12•SPRING200813•SPRING2008 By Katelyn Nelson Edina Public Schools recently marked 25 years of its successful Continuous Progress (CP) program. Continuous Progress began at Cornelia Elementary School in 1983, but moved to Highlands Elementary in 1990. Another elementary school, Countryside, also began offering the program in 1991. The CPProgram is a multi-age educational experience for children in Grades 1 through 5. The students are placed in “families” with Grades 1 through 3 in one group and 3 through 5 in another. However, the two groups come together often to spend time as a whole family. There are about 50 students in each family, along with two teachers—one male and one female. This program is a part of Edina Public School’s “parent choice” selection. Parents have a say in whether they want their elementary school-aged children to be a part of a traditional neighborhood school, French Immersion program, or Continuous Progress. There is currently a waiting list for the CPProgram at both schools, which longtime CP Teacher Deb Pekarek calls “bittersweet.” She is “glad there is interest in the program, but wishes more students could be admitted.” Highlands Elementary School Principal Peter Hodne believes that parents choose the CPProgram “because it is like an extension of their own family.” CPparents develop strong ties with teachers and other parents to serve as active participants in encouraging their child’s educational progress. Hodne went on to say that “when we have them for five years, they become family.” The benefits of the program are very clear to those who believe in it. CP parent and General Event Chairwoman of the 25th Anniversary Celebration, Cheryl Dulas, finds that this way of learning “allows the teacher to really get to know the student, get to understand the student’s learning style, and then carry that throughout the next five years.” Children also learn important leadership skills that might not be available in traditional neighborhood schools. Continuous Progress PTA President Amy Scott finds CPstudents “have chances to be leaders at a younger age” by observing and looking up to the older students in their school families. Edina Public Schools Celebrate 25 Years Of Continuous Progress Program Jane Grivna, a Paraprofessional at Highlands Elementary and CPparent has seen many students go through the CP Program and move onto middle school and high school. When asked if she saw any students struggle with the transition from the close-knit CPteachers and students she said “no more than any other student who is nervous about a new school and new teachers.” Some critics have expressed concern about CPstudents not being exposed to more children their own age. However, Scott has found that “Edina gives children many opportunities to be together through sports, community activities, and just playing in the neighborhoods,” and she does not sense any issues with age separation. The Continuous Progress Program has been a flourishing education program for Edina Public Schools for 25 years. Many attribute the success of the program to the strong relationships formed and the shared motivation of teachers and parents to create a unique and effective learning environment for the students. All Continuous Progress parents, teachers, and administrators are looking forward to 25 more years of success. For more information on the Continuous Progress Program contact Peter Hodne, Principal, Highlands Elementary, 952 848-4500; or Julie Hatzung, Principal, Countryside Elementary, 952-949-4700. Edina Public Schools administrators, along with past and present CP teachers, gather at the 25th Anniversary Celebration in 2006. Old friends reminisce about the fun times they had in the CP program at the 25th Anniversary Celebration. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 15 14•SPRING2008 15•SPRING2008 Peddlers & Solicitors Peddlers and solicitors are allowed to sell their wares or services in Edina by going from door to door. Residents who do not want such entrepreneurs to knock on their doors must place a printed placard or sign reading “Peddlers and Solicitors Prohibited” on or near the usual entrance to their homes. No peddler or solicitor shall enter, ring the doorbell or knock on a door where a placard or sign is posted, unless he or she has been previously invited by the resident. Under local ordinance, peddlers and solicitors must obtain a permit from the Edina Police Department. The permits are valid for 14 days. Peddlers must wear an identification card issued by the City and conduct their business between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. They must go to the front door of a residence and are not allowed in residents’ side or rear yards. Peddlers and solicitors must promptly depart a property after completing business. Non-profit organizations established for philanthropic, religious or educational purposes do not have to obtain a permit, but must register with the Police Department. Some people do not have to register or carry a permit to go door to door. Those people include: •Those selling personal property at wholesale to dealers of such articles •Newspersons •Merchants delivering goods to established customers in the regular course of business •Farmers or gardeners •Students in kindergarten through Grade 12 who are selling items to benefit programs or activities in which they are involved •Bakery, dairy or grocery deliverers who make an uninvited initiatory visit in an effort to establish a regular route service for future delivery of perishables Political and religious canvassing or campaigning is not prohibited. Remember, you do not need to answer a knock at your door. If you are not sure who it is or are uncomfortable, don’t open your door. For more information, contact the Edina Police Department, 952-826-1610. Please report suspicious activity by calling 911. “Peddlers and solicitors prohibited” placards are available at Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St. Lawn Watering Water smart! In order to ensure an adequate water supply, the City’s Utilities Department reminds residents that Edina’s odd-even sprinkling policy is in effect year-round. 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 It’s Not Only Neighborly … It’s The Law and so on. In addition, watering is banned daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 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. CallTed Field 952-927-1150 www.SeniorExpert.com 35+ years experience working with seniors 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 17 By Dick Crockett Executive Director This is the fourth anniversary of the Foundation’s first About Town column in the Spring 2004 issue. It described our Focus on Youth and it seems appropriate, 16 issues later, to return to that topic. Many of our program services involving youth have been in support of the Connecting With Kids (CWK) initiative in Edina. CWK is a decade-long collaboration between the City of Edina, Edina Public Schools, the Edina Chamber of Commerce and its business members, the faith community and our Foundation to connect high school students and other youth with adults and community programs. Our role has been to provide funding, often with enabling gifts from private donors, to help make CWK programs possible. For example, we funded a series of intergenerational dialogues that have brought together community representatives and student leaders in a retreat setting to discuss current issues of interest to Edina youth: Quality of Life in the Community (2002), Chemical and Drug Use (2004) and Diversity Without Walls (2006). CWK has also hosted several Leadership Breakfasts for student and adult participants, including the May 2007 event funded by the Foundation. Other Foundation programs have been planned to involve youth in the spirit of our commitment to the CWK initiative. For example, the annual one book, one community Edina Reads program co-sponsored by the Foundation, the Edina Library and its Friends organization, Edina High School, the Senior Center and the Human Rights and Relations Commission has consistently involved youth: •In 2005 we featured The Kite Runner by Khaleed Hosseini. Emily Triggs, an Edina High School student, was included with a local author and a judge on a panel discussion of “Character and Courage in Personal and Professional Life.” That same year, we included 30 students with 30 senior adults in a bus trip to a Pen Pals reading by the author, followed by intergenerational table discussions. •In 2006, when the selection was Yeh Yeh’s House by St. Paul author Evelina Chou, we provided free tickets to 30 high school students for a St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concert in the community featuring Chou, who is also a cellist, followed by a luncheon discussion on intergenerational differences. •And in 2007, our community discussion of Until the Streetcars Return by Stanley Gordon West was held at Edina High School’s new Performing Arts Center. The event included a student jazz band performance, a reading from the book by members of a student thespian group and a panel discussion of the book by a four-member student panel. The Foundation’s first Edina Dialogue capstone event, in January 2007, featured global explorer Will Steger speaking on Global Warming Solutions. We asked the Edina High School student members of Project Earth to Edina Community Foundation: Youth Programs Strengthening Our Community co-sponsor the event and lead the discussion with our audience of some 900 adult and student members. We have also included youth in the Holiday Home Tour that we have held in early December of each year since 2004. High school and junior high school musical groups have been invited to provide entertainment where the tours begin at City Hall and at the homes on the tour. Youth also play a prominent role in the annual 4th of July Parade, sponsored by the Foundation with support from the City of Edina. The parades feature many student bands, musicians and youth organizations ranging from soccer clubs to the Edina Youth Juggling Association. These are great opportunities for family entertainment, with attendance approaching 20,000. The Foundation supports the work of the Country Club and Edina Highlands Neighborhood Associations, whose members provide the contributions that enable the organizations to organize block parties and other events that connect their children with other families and adults in the neighborhood. Finally, we support many other youth programs that are funded through the Foundation by community donors: •Since 1984, we have made Ikola Scholarship awards to the graduating senior on the EHS boys’ varsity hockey team with the highest grade point average. •Since 1997, we have awarded more than $22,000 in Rosland Scholarship grants-in-aid to the Edina Park & Recreation Department to allow families and children in need to participate in City facilities and programs. •In cooperation with the City of Edina, we award two Recycling Scholarships annually to students committed to recycling efforts. •We support the Edina Youth Juggling Association coaching, equipment and event expenses. •With proceeds from the Ikola Cup golf tourney, we provide budget support for the Edina Girls Hockey Boosters. •We provide grant funding for the Edina Family Center’s Gym Time Program and the Edina Resource Center’s Summer of Opportunity. •We have contributed to the Southdale YMCAsummer camp scholarship fund for young people in need. At the Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Gala last November, we announced an initiative to encourage community contributions that will enhance the Foundation’s ability to support these and other youth programs. The Van Valkenburg Children’s Fund, named in honor of James Van Valkenburg, our founder and long-time Board member, represents our commitment to continue benefiting youth as an integral means of fulfilling our mission of Strengthening Our Community. Questions about the Foundation or any of its programs may be addressed to Crockett at 952-833-9573 or edinacommunityfoundation@ci.edina.mn.us. Additional information about the Foundation and links to other articles may be found at its website, www.EdinaCommunityFoundation.org. 17•SPRING200816•SPRING2008 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 19 19•SPRING200818•SPRING2008 Westin Edina Galleria Selects McCormick and Schmick’s The Westin Edina Galleria has signed a lease with McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants for the new luxury hotel. Edina is the first suburban location for the restaurant and many believe it is a wonderful addition to the Westin’s first condominium and hotel combination. Westin Edina Galleria’s general manager Marc Faubert said, “McCormick and Schmick’s is known for its exceptional service and quality. We are pleased to offer our guests and residents this highly regarded dining option.” When open, the restaurant will have space for 250 guests, including a bar and outdoor patio area. McCormick and Schmick’s has one other restaurant in the Twin Cities, located on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis. The restaurant is scheduled to open in the fall. For more information, contact Euan McGlashan, 952-486-8403. New Members Join Edina Chamber of Commerce The Edina Chamber of Commerce continued its growth in the month of December. Luxury Media Group of Edina, Minnesota Lynx of Minneapolis and TitleNexus of Bloomington are the latest additions to the Chamber. For more information, contact the Edina Chamber of Commerce, 952-806-9060. Edina Public Schools Selects New Ed Fund Director Karen Nelson was hired as the new Education Fund Director for Edina Public Schools, after being the interim Director since October 2007. Karen graduated with a degree in accounting from Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill., and earned accounting credentials in 1986. She has spent much of her career working for financial institutions and is currently working as a consultant for many small businesses. The Edina Education Fund creates, directs and implements fundraising programs to benefit Edina Public Schools. They rely on the generosity of community donors to support the school district and students of all grade levels and of all subjects. In the past year, $445,000 in grant allocations were made across the district. For more information on the Edina Education Fund, call 952-848-4222. Young Chefs Academy Opens At Centennial Lakes Centennial Lakes has welcomed another business to its extensive list, the Young Chefs Academy. The Academy opened at 7491 France Ave. S. last spring and is looking for young Edina residents to cook up some fun. The Young Chefs Academy hosts many different kinds of classes and workshops for children ages 4 to 16. Weekly classes are themed so children can learn all about one type of food like noodles or veggies, while weekend workshops center on holiday party ideas. The Young Chefs Academy also hosts school field trips and scout Stride Rite Laces Up for Business in Southdale Center Stride Rite, makers of premium children’s footwear, celebrated its grand opening in Edina last fall. With the new store in Southdale Center, Stride Rite brings their 80 years of high-quality footwear experience to the mall. Specializing in custom-fit shoes for boys and girls from babies to big kids with active lifestyles, Stride Rite offers a large variety of styles and colors. Stride Rite is located on the second floor of Southdale Center. For more information, call 952-926-1358. Southdale Opens Health and Wellness Club Kidgits Club is now enrolling children in their program at Southdale Center. Kidgits, a club that promotes health and wellness, education, safety and entertainment activities, has had 750,000 people join around the nation since it opened in 2003. Kidgits Club can be found at all malls incorporated with the Simon Property Group. Maplewood Mall in St. Paul has a Kidgits Club program as well. The registration cost for each child is $5. Each Simon Kidgits Club member receives his or her own official Simon Kidgits Club membership card and a T-shirt at the time of enrollment. Other Simon Kidgits Club membership benefits include special invitations to live mall events; exclusive premiums for members at each event they attend; retailer offers and rewards for kids and moms; a Birthday Club and a quarterly newsletter with games, educational features and special news. For more information, stop by the Customer Service Desk at Southdale Center or call 952-925-7874. Westin Names General Manager and Director Of Sales And Marketing Marc Faubert has been named the General Manager of the Westin Hotel & Resort in Edina. Faubert brings his 20 years of hotel management experience to the luxurious mixed-use hotel. “I’m both honored and thrilled to bring the Westin experience to the City of Edina,” said Faubert. “Westin’s exemplary hospitality is centered on renewing experiences. My team and I are looking forward to providing Westin’s style and services to our friends and guests.” Faubert announced that Patrick Clemons will be the Director of Sales and Marketing. With 18 years of hotel management experience, Clemons will be responsible for managing all day-to-day sales and marketing efforts. Faubert believes Clemons will do “an outstanding job of delivering Westin’s vision of renewal, personal attention and instinctive experiences to guests, residents and the Edina community.” Connected to the Galleria, Westin will offer hotel rooms as well as condominiums for guests when it opens later this year. Westin will feature 225 hotel rooms, six suites, 82 condominiums and 9,000 square feet of conference rooms, along with other amenities. The Westin Hotel & Resort of Edina is located at 3130 Galleria, 69th & France Ave. S. For more information visit www.EdinaGalleriaResidences.com. Business Notes (continued on next page) 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 21 21•SPRING200820•SPRING2008 troops, and is a great place for children to learn the basics of cooking in a fun and safe environment. For more information on the Young Chefs Academy, call Patty Larson at 952-224-9160. Edina Fire Department Receives Generous Donation Stanton Group teamed up with the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company to donate $9,100 to the Edina Fire Department for 50 high-visibility jackets for paramedic/firefighters to wear during emergency situations. The need for these jackets became imperative after an Edina paramedic was struck by a car last year while working the scene of a car crash. Luckily, the paramedic was not injured, but the accident reinforced the importance of keeping emergency responders visible in all situations. The jackets are bright green for easy visibility during the day and also have reflective striping for work at night. The grant was received as part of a national program called Fireman’s Fund Heritage, which provides training, educational tools and equipment for fire departments with the help of local insurance agencies. It was presented to the Edina Fire Department in January at Edina City Hall. Southdale Center To Host ‘Get Your Rear In Gear’5K The Colon Cancer Coalition’s fourth-annual “Get Your Rear in Gear” 5K run and walk for the Twin Cities will be held Sunday, April 13, at its new host site, Southdale Center. “Colon cancer screening has been a taboo subject far too long, and it is the Coalition’s mission to raise awareness, reminding individuals that colorectal screening is just another necessary medical exam as we age,” said Kristin Tabor, President of the Coalition. The inaugural Get Your Rear in Gear 5K event in 2005 was called one of the most successful first-time running events in Minnesota history, attracting more than 1,200 people. Numbers topped 2,700 in 2006, and over 3,200 runners and walkers came out in the pouring rain to participate in 2007. The goal for the 2008 run/walk is 5,000 participants. This year’s Kids Fun Run will be dedicated to Glenda Bauer, a dedicated school teacher of more than 30 years who lost her battle to colon cancer last year. Her colleagues from Shannon Park Elementary School in Rosemount are coordinating the effort in her name. Every year, colon cancer kills more than 56,000 Americans – 43 percent of those diagnosed. Remarkably, as the second largest cancer killer, the disease is completely preventable and treatable if caught in the early stages. Tabor created the Colon Cancer Coalition and the “Get Your Rear in Gear” event after losing her sister to colon cancer at age 46. The Coalition will host seven additional 5K’s in cities nationwide and hopes to bring Get Your Rear in Gear events to all 50 states by 2010. —Compiled by Ryan Olsen and Katelyn Nelson 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 23 22•SPRING2008 23•SPRING2008 Bringing The 2008 U.S. Women’s Open To Edina Preparation for the 63rd U.S. Women’s Open actually began upon the conclusion of another Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) event, the 2002 Solheim Cup, which was also held at Interlachen Country Club. It was then that officials from the country club extended an invitation to the United States Golf Association (USGA) to consider Interlachen as a site for a future U.S. Women’s Open. Although the process officially began in 2003, Edina resident Cal Simmons can attest that the seed was planted much earlier. “Golf has always been a big part of my life,” said Simmons, who is now a chairman of one of the U.S. Women’s Open committees. “I grew up a caddie at the Wayzata Country Club and have been a member of Interlachen since 1978.” Simmons is also a former president of the Minnesota Golf Association, and it was during this time that he met Judy Bell, the first woman president of the USGA. “She was at Interlachen in 1993 for the Walker Cup and commented on how great the course would be for a Women’s Open,” said Simmons. “After that, every time I’d see her she would say, ‘We need to get the Open to Interlachen,’ and it finally happened.” Preparing For The Open After the USGAselection committee had chosen Interlachen as the site for the 2008 U.S. Women’s Open, staff members began moving into the area to prepare for the event. Jeff Ewing, the Women’s Open Executive Director, has worked closely with many Edina officials over the past five years while preparing for this year’s event. “It has been a great experience getting to know the City and its staff,” said Ewing. “They have gone out of their way to create an enjoyable working environment and supply us with everything we need for success.” One of the staff members Ewing mentioned specifically is Draper, who will be tasked with the stressful duty of providing security on the course grounds throughout the event. 63rd U.S. Women’s Open To Swing Through Edina By Marty Doll Fore! It’s the biggest stage for the world’s greatest women golfers, and it’s getting ready to swing, drive and slice its way through Edina. The 63rd U.S. Women’s Open is set to tee off June 23 at the historic Interlachen Country Club, and preparations are well under way. “This is a big event,” said Sgt. Tom Draper of the Edina Police Department, holding back a knowing grin. Abig event indeed—bigger than any event the City has ever held in the past. Throughout the week of the tournament, 156 of the world’s best professional and amateur golfers, along with more than 150,000 spectators, volunteers and tournament officials are expected to flood the community and golf course. “We anticipate the event will be sold out,” said Amy Lillibridge, Marketing and Public Relations Director for the Women’s Open. “We expect around 30,000 spectators on the course for each of the weekend days.” Accommodating such a high profile sporting event is obviously not an easy task, and many Edina officials and residents have worked countless hours with representatives of the Women’s Open to ensure that this event will be a success. Top professionals including Annika Sorenstam (pictured), 2007 U.S. Women’s Open champion Cristie Kerr and Edina native Hilary Lunke are expected to participate in this year’s field. Historic Interlachen Country Club will be host to the 63rd U.S. Women’s Open. 2 0 08 U.S . W OME N ' S O PEN PMS 561 C and Black (continued on next page) 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 25 24•SPRING2008 25•SPRING2008 Measuring The Impact Looking past the sheer numbers of people that will be making the pilgrimage to Edina, the 2008 U.S. Women’s Open will also have a huge impact both economically, and in terms of publicity for the City. “This event is going to have a positive economic impact upwards to $25 million dollars for the City of Edina,” said Ewing. “On top of that, the City will be mentioned in over 16 hours of live national television coverage on ESPN and NBC. It’s a great way to showcase what the City can do; you can’t buy marketing like that.” Longtime Edina resident Cal Simmons agrees. “Golf tournaments – especially something of this magnitude – are great for everybody,” said Simmons. “They’re great for the host club, the competitors, spectators, volunteers – everybody has fun.” Ticket information for the 2008 U.S. Women’s Open is available online at www.2008USWomensOpen.com or by calling 877-281-OPEN. “Being a fan of golf, I purposely picked this assignment and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Draper. “I see it as a challenge that I’ll probably never have the opportunity to do again in my lifetime.” In order to prepare for his daunting task, Draper attended the 2007 U.S. Women’s Open in South Pines, NC, to “pick the brains” of the people in charge. While there, he studied how officials handled security and traffic issues. Based on what he learned, Draper says the Edina Police Department will supply 12 officers for course and clubhouse security and an additional nine player escorts for each day of the tournament. Along with security detail, Draper is also in charge of dealing with traffic and parking related to the Open. Parking at Interlachen will be limited to players and tournament officials only, so spectators will be required to park off site and either walk or be bussed to the golf course. Although finding parking for the hundreds of thousands of people that will be attending the Open is a top priority, Draper doesn’t see increased traffic in the community resulting from the influx. “Most of our traffic will be limited to bus or foot traffic because a majority of the people will be parking in other communities,” said Draper. “If there is an impact on traffic, it will be limited to the Southdale area (where some spectators will be asked to park) early in the morning or late in the afternoon.” Recruiting volunteers has also been an instrumental part of the U.S. Women’s Open planning process. According to Lillibridge, more than 3,000 volunteers on 35 different committees will be needed to pull off the event. “We already have more than 430 volunteers from Edina alone,” said Lillibridge. “We could not run any aspect of this event without their help.” “It’s a community-based effort,” said Simmons. “We have people from Edina, Hopkins, Bloomington, Minnetonka and all over the metro area volunteering to help with the Open. That’s something that everyone can be very proud of.” Fans from across the country will travel to Edina in June to take part in this year’s Open. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 27 26•SPRING2008 27•SPRING2008 Apicture is worth a thousand words. If the saying is true, it would likely take all of the world’s dictionaries to adequately portray the unique essence of the Edina community. Every park, scenic neighborhood and bustling business district in the City serves as a perpetual backdrop to daily life in Edina, and the potential for that picture-perfect snapshot can be found everywhere you look. In honor of picturesque Edina, the City once again invites you to share your most unique and treasured photographs of the past year in the fifth-annual “Images of Edina” Photo Contest. The deadline to enter this year’s contest is Friday, June 13. All submissions must be received by 4:30 p.m. and adhere to the following guidelines: •Photographers must be Edina residents or work in Edina to be eligible. •Photographs must be taken in Edina. •Photographs must be entered in one of four categories that represent the City’s vision statement: oLiving oLearning o Raising Families oDoing Business •Photographers may submit up to a total of three photographs. •Only photographs taken between June 16, 2007, and June 13, 2008, are eligible. •All photos MUST be submitted as 8x10 prints on photo quality paper. •Please provide an electronic format (.jpg, .tif or .eps) of your photo, if possible. Electronic formats should NOT replace the 8x10 print. •Do NOT submit slides, photocopies or prints on non-photo quality paper. •Both color and black-and-white prints are accepted. •Do not mat or frame photos. •All entries submitted must be the original work of the submitting photographer. •By entering the contest, you agree to allow the City of Edina to publish and display your photo(s), with proper credit, as the City sees fit. •The contest organizers reserve the right to re-categorize or disqualify any entrant. City Calls For Entries In Fifth-Annual Community Photo Contest •If there are identifiable people in a photograph taken in a non-public space, it is the responsibility of the photographer to obtain written permission to use the photo. •All decisions will be final; judges reserve the right not to award a winner in any category. •The City of Edina will not be responsible for lost entries. •All photo entries become the property of the City and are not returned. •Each entry should include the photographer’s name, address, zip code, daytime telephone number, age (if under 18), category, title of photo and enhancement description if the image was digitally manipulated in any way. •Entries should be mailed to: Photo Contest c/o City of Edina 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN 55424 or dropped off at Edina City Hall. Depending on the number of entrants, a winner may be chosen for each category as well as an overall winner. Contest winners will receive plaques from the City Council and their artwork will be displayed for up to two years at Edina City Hall. Some photos may also appear in future City publications, including About Town. Entries will be judged on subject matter, composition, clarity, lighting, depth of field, artistry/drama, degree of difficulty, technical excellence and overall impact. Last year, Barbara Nichols was the overall winner of the photo contest with her photo “Fall at Cornelia Park.” Nichols photo also won the “Living” category of the contest. Other winners included Diane Schroeder in the “Learning” category for her photograph titled “Spark,” depicting a young girl in a school setting; Libby Pastor in the “Raising Families” category for her photo “Puppy Love,” showing a girl hugging a puppy; and Polly Norman in the “Doing Business” category with her photo “Good Hair Day,” showing people getting their hair cut and styled at Zina’s. Last year, the judges also gave a Judge’s Choice Award to 5-year-old Grace Hendrickson for her photo, “Gracie the Shutterbug.” The photo is of a butterfly sitting on a pink flower outside the Hendrickson’s home. For more information on the contest, contact Communications Coordinator Marty Doll at 952-826-0396 or mdoll@ci.edina.mn.us. Barbara Nichols won the 2007 Images of Edina contest with her photograph, “Fall at Cornelia Park.” Photo by Barbara Nichole 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 29 28•SPRING2008 29•SPRING2008 EDINA 50th & France YYOOUURR NNEEIIGGHHBBOORRHHOOOODD RREEAALL EESSTTAATTEE PPRROOFFEESSSSIIOONNAALLSS JOHN SMABY, MANAGER 952.924.8757 EDINA 6800 OFFICE JOHN SHAW, MANAGER 952.927.1160 Jeff and Diane Anderes 952-927-2842 Ginni and Jeff Anderson 952-927-1669 Jeff and Connie Cauble 952-927-1115 John Everett 952-927-1646 Debra Fritz 952-927-1692 Jackie Goodlund 952-927-1647 Ruthann Holetz 952-927-1624 Stacy Johnson 952-927-1608 Linda Jones 952-927-1781 Mary Greig Ktieter 612-719-0665 John MacKany 952-927-1163 John McDonald 952-927-1197 JoanE Mitchell 952-927-1147 Jude Dugan Olson 952-927-1186 Linda Platt 952-927-1179 Kevin Ries 952-927-1196 Margie and John Sampsell 952-927-1195 Wade Thommen 952-927-1152 Michael Tierney 952-927-1676 Susan Wahman 952-927-1114 Corky Weber 952-927-1198 Pam Aagaard 952-261-7576 Pam Allen 952-915-7187 Dave Anderson 612-750-2209 Sandy and Buzz Bainbridge 952-915-7980 Babette and John Bean 952-924-8722 Lou Blemaster 952-924-8744 Krysta Clark 952-924-8707 Sheila Cronin 952-915-7951 Karen Daly 952-924-8746 Patti Eastman 952-924-8786 Lisa Eckert 952-915-7964 Tom Frisk 612-418-6642 Janie Hays 952-924-8721 Jim Jaeckels 952-924-8741 Mark Kouatli 612-708-8400 Bob and Francy Matson 952-915-7950 Brad McNamara 952-924-8785 Tom and Meg Meyers 952-924-8712 Marcia Russell 612-965-7997 Linda Smaby 952-924-8726 Kathie Volland 952-915-7934 Colleen Wahl 952-924-8789 Chris Willette 612-388-8828 FFiinndd uuss aatt eeddiinnaa66880000..eeddiinnaarreeaallttyy..ccoomm FFiinndd uuss aatt eeddiinnaa5500tthhaannddffrraannccee..eeddiinnaarreeaallttyy..ccoomm eeddiinnaarreeaallttyy..ccoomm OOppeenn HHoouusseess ••AAccttiivvee LLiissttiinnggss ••HHoommee VVaalluueess ••PPrrooppeerrttyy SSeeaarrcchh A Full Service Lender Todd Johnson • 6800 France Ave • 612.207.9550 Kara Egan • 50th& France • 612.325.3735 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 31 30•SPRING2008 31•SPRING2008 To purge iron 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 allows. Hydrant-flushing will take place 8 a.m. to 8 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 28 and on the west side of the highway the week of May 5. 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. City Of Edina To Flush Hydrants In April And May TTHHEE IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall AApppprrooaacchh TToo RReeaall EEssttaattee Realtor/ Agent Immobilier Stephane Cattelin Serving The Edina French-American Community Minneapolis Lakes Office 612-924-4352 Office 612-703-8229 Mobile www.StephaneCattelin.com e-PRO, CIPS, TRC We s ee mo re t ha n m on ey. www.we s t e rn-ban k .c om Edina 952-857-1707 Maplewood 651-290-7822 Minneapolis 651-290-7888 Mounds View 651-290-7866 Oakdale 651-290-7844 St. Paul 651-290-8100 Coverage for backups of sewers and basementdrains 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. DO YOU have insurance for sewer back-ups? Check your policy today! 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 33 33•SPRING200832•SPRING2008 By Marty Doll Just over 20 years ago, the land that is now Edina’s Centennial Lakes Park—located along France Avenue just north of Minnesota Drive—was nothing more than a giant pit of sand and gravel that served as a quarry for Edina and neighboring communities. Gone are the deep holes and rocky landscape. Gone is the heavy equipment used to excavate tons of sand and gravel each day. Today, Centennial Lakes is a mixed-use development anchored by a beautiful park with a 10-acre pond, miles of paved walking paths and beautifully landscaped grounds. The park rests nestled among a bustling private development of office buildings, shops, eateries and entertainment. Bordering the northeast corner of Centennial Lakes Park is another publicly owned space referred to as the Edina Promenade. The Promenade currently consists of a 70-foot wide walking path that runs west from York Avenue toward Centennial Lakes Park, and then to the north across 70th Street toward the shops of the Galleria. “The City has owned the right-of- way to the Promenade since the 1970s,” said Heather Worthington, Edina’s Assistant City Manager, “and we have been looking for ways to update and beautify the area for years.” Now, that vision is finally coming to fruition. Aplan has been authorized by the City Council to update the Promenade—specifically, to extend the public amenities of Centennial Lakes Park into the area. The plan calls for the construction of a new walking path, along with a separate striped path for biking. The path renovation also includes an improved pedestrian tunnel under York Avenue meant to allow foot and bike traffic in the area to flow more freely. Finally, a large segment of the project will be dedicated to public art and beautification of the area. “The value of public art in our communities is immeasurable,” said Edina Public Art Committee Chairwoman Linda Kieffer. “It builds pride in community heritage, can serve as an educational tool and has the potential to entertain, inspire, communicate and generally improve the quality of life through artistic expression and reflection.” The master plan for the Promenade includes seven to nine A Walk Through The Arts: City Begins Improvement Of Edina Promenade plazas placed throughout the area. Each plaza will display a unique sculpture or group of sculptures and offer those taking advantage of the walking and bike paths an opportunity to relax and reflect. “We relied heavily on the input of our residents living in and around Centennial Lakes Park and the Promenade when deciding how to go about improving the area,” said Worthington. One of those residents is Lois Ring. In addition to living in the Centennial Lakes Park neighborhood, she is also a member of the Edina Public Art Committee. “I was one of the residents who spoke up during the City’s neighborhood planning sessions about the importance of including public art in this project,” said Ring. “During a meeting at the Centrum, we discussed the importance of public art with Arijs Pakalns, an architect from URS Corp. (the consulting firm tasked with designing the concept for the Promenade), and he was thrilled at the idea of including sculptures.” Art-minded Edina residents like Ring and Kieffer make up the Edina Public Art Committee. They are continually looking for opportunities, like the Promenade project, to enhance the beauty and culture of the community. However, being a volunteer organization, they are very limited in their resources and rely entirely on outside donations. “Our most challenging task is to obtain funding and donors for projects like the Promenade sculptures and other art-related projects around Edina,” said Ring. That is where people like John and Jean Hedberg play an important role. The Hedbergs are the former owners of the old sand and gravel quarry that is now Centennial Lakes. For years, John and his wife had wanted to give something back to the City. They felt the planned improvements to the Edina Promenade made for the perfect opportunity, and promptly donated $80,000 toward the creation of a sculpture for the area. “The [Centennial Lakes] area was our former land and we always thought something like this would be a good idea,” said John Hedberg when asked why he and his wife were thrilled to make such a sizeable donation. “We’re happy to do something to make a beautiful place even more beautiful, and I think this will do that.” (continued on next page) Edina’s Promenade runs west from York Avenue toward Centennial Lakes Park and then north across 70th Street toward the shops at the Galleria. URS Corp.’s rendition of the pinecone sculpture that will be placed in Centennial Lakes Park. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 35 35•SPRING200834•SPRING2008 The Hedbergs, along with the Edina Public Art Committee, held a competition to choose the artist who would create their sculpture. They decided upon Marcia McEachron, a metal-working Twin Cities artist who has produced more than 20 public art projects in and around the metro area over the past 30 years. Her design of a nine-foot tall, bursting pinecone helped her stand out among the competition. “The scale makes you stop and take a look; it’s very abstract, but within the design is a very big idea,” said McEachron. “While trying to come up with a design for this sculpture, I wanted to look at nature in a new way, as well as find a symbol in nature that speaks to all of us. The burst pinecone, to me, symbolizes prosperity. In its ‘open’ form, it is releasing its seed and showing its potential for growth. It is a source of inspiration.” The towering pinecone will be made entirely of stainless steel and will reflect both light and color from its surroundings, causing it to standout and attract much attention to itself. McEachron hopes that it will be a piece that people will be able to enjoy for years to come. “Art is not a fashion,” said McEachron. “Fashion is a product of the environment we live in, and the environment is constantly changing. Art isn’t ‘fashionable’ in that sense. It doesn’t go out of style—it speaks to everybody at all times.” Although the Hedbergs’ sculpture will actually be placed just outside of the Promenade, within Centennial Lakes Park at the center of the maze, members of the Edina Public Art Committee believe it will generate more interest for development of the overall project. “The first sculpture is kind of the kick-off for the Promenade project,” said Ring. “We hope that it will encourage more people to make donations. Contributions from people like the Hedbergs and additional large fundraising activities are the only way we can accomplish large public art projects like this one.” McEachron began working on the pinecone sculpture earlier this year and she anticipates the project will take six to seven months to complete. Work on the Promenade paths is taking place this spring, and the east/west leg is expected to be finished before the end of the year. “It will be very exciting when this project is complete,” said Ring, “and Edina is able to draw people from around the Twin Cities to share in the appreciation of our public art.” Final plans for the Promenade can be viewed online at www.CityofEdina.com. For more information about the Promenade project, contact Assistant city Manager Heather Worthington, 952-826-0415. If you would like to make a donation to the Edina Public Art Committee, please mail contributions to the Edina Community Foundation, 5280 Grandview Square, Edina, MN 55436, with the gift designated “For EPAC.” Questions about contributions can be addressed to Kieffer at 952-412-2191 or Dick Crockett, the Edina Community Foundation’s Executive Director, at 952-833-9573. Marcia McEachron has been working with metal to create sculptures for over 30 years. “In Business Since 1976” 952-835-2252 www.midwestinteriors.com Flooring & Countertops for Residential & Commercial 5251 Edina Industrial Blvd Edina, MN 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 37 37•SPRING200836•SPRING2008 By Ryan Olsen Helping police officers, firefighters and other first responders keep up on the latest tactics and procedures in ensuring public safety is the responsibility of Debra Fields, new South Metro Public Safety Training Facility Coordinator. The South Metro Public Safety Training Facility, located at 7525 Braemar Blvd., is a collaborative effort of the cities of Edina, Bloomington, Eden Prairie and the Metropolitan Airports Commission. The facility functions as a state-of-the-art training center that is open for all police and fire departments to keep abreast of the latest techniques in law enforcement and rescue. The 28,000- square-foot building houses two shooting ranges, firearms training simulator, two classrooms, defensive tactics training space, eight-story training tower and canine training field to better educate the emergency responders in the south metro area. Before taking the position in Edina, Fields worked with the Minneapolis Police Department for 11 years. Most of those years were spent working on community-oriented policing activities geared toward children. She had a hand in summer camps in addition to the Police Explorer program, which allows young men and women the chance to “explore” a career in law enforcement. The last few years Fields was with the Minneapolis Police Department, she worked in training with 800 officers. “Deb was selected from a field of over 25 qualified candidates for this important position. She stood out from other candidates due to her extensive training background with the Minneapolis Police Department. We’re delighted that Deb decided to join our organization,” said Edina City Manager Gordon Hughes. “I enjoyed working with Minneapolis. However, working at the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility is a perfect transition and a wonderful fit,” said Fields. On a daily basis, Fields manages the facility as well as schedules and prepares for events. “It’s exhausting in a good way,” said Fields with a smile. “Rarely is there a one-stop shop like this for training.” Fields is looking forward to overseeing some improvements to the facility, including adding additional space. Even though hundreds of emergency responders come through the doors each year, she hopes to get even more departments through the building. “This facility is not exclusively for the communities that have funded the project. We reach out and rent space to any city. Residents can also make use of the facility. Saturdays, 9 to 11 a.m., the shooting range is open for practice at $15 per lane per half hour,” said Fields. Abuilding like the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility vastly improves the quality of service provided by police and fire departments in the cities that make use of it. Fields’ position is a key component to ensuring that everything is ready and set when emergency responders need them. For more information, call 952-653-0671 or visit www.SouthMetroTraining.com. New Coordinator Begins Work At South Metro Training Facility Debra Fields began work late last year as Coordinator of the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility. Photo by Polly Norman Discoverthe Benefits ofMembership atthe Southdale YMCA Join Todayand GetFitforLife! www.YMCATwinCities.org. Asafe, welcoming place for kids, adultsand families. State-of-the artFitnessCenterswith high-tech cardio machinesand strength training equipment. Over100 FREEGroup Xclasses a week, the “funnest” Group Exercise classesaround. IncludingBODYPUMP, BODYVIVE and Cardio-Kick! FREEKidsStuffchild care while you workout. ComplimentaryAdultFitness Consultationsto help define your fitnessgoals. PremierYMCASwim Academyswim lessonsatreduced rates. FREEprogramsand activitiesfor kidsand familiesincluding SuperFamilySundays! Southdale YMCA 7355 YorkAvenue South Edina 952-835-2567 Discoverthe Benefits ofMembership atthe Southdale YMCA 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 39 maintaining and enhancing safety in the community and tasks itself with raising funds to help contribute to public safety projects. In the spring of 2006, the Crime Fund Board donated over $5,000 to the City for the surveillance camera project. “This group really helps out the Police Department,” said Molly Anderson, Edina Police Public Information Officer. “They have been around for over 30 years and have contributed funds to great programs like Neighbors Home Watch, the K-9 Unit and this new surveillance equipment.” Along with raising money, Edina’s Crime Prevention Fund also offers a standing reward of up to $1,000 for information relating to vandalism in any City park that results in an arrest and conviction. According to statistics from “Graffiti Hurts,” a grassroots community education program that raises awareness about graffiti, the most effective way to prevent “tagging” is to promptly remove it. Studies have shown that removal within 24 to 48 hours results in a nearly zero rate of reoccurrence. Surveillance cameras have also proven to be a useful deterrent. According to a U.S. Office of Justice publication, calls for police service in a crime-ridden New York neighborhood have decreased by 71 percent in the two and a half years since cameras were installed. According to both Keprios and Anderson, Edina’s cameras have already proven to be a success, as cases of vandalism have decreased since their installation. According to Keprios, some vandals have already been caught and identified because of them. “These cameras produce a very clear image,” Keprios said. “They are operational 24/7 and store digital information for over a month. Over the next two years, we intend to add even more.” While Keprios and the Police Department know that fighting vandalism will be an uphill battle, they hope that the surveillance cameras will be an integral part of keeping Edina a safe and beautiful community. To make a contribution or learn more about the Edina Crime Prevention Fund, visit www.EdinaCrimePreventionFund.org. For more information on Edina’s Park and Recreation programs, contact the department at 952-826-0367. 39•SPRING2008 By Marty Doll Ranging from spray-painted graffiti to physical destruction of property, vandalism is a serious and costly issue across the Twin Cities metro area—and Edina is no exception. Here, the less visible parts of City parks have historically been the most frequent targets of vandals, who tend to strike in the late hours of the night. “Vandalism is nothing new,” said Edina Park and Recreation Director John Keprios. “It has been going on since the beginning of time and there’s nothing anyone can do to completely get rid of it.” According to crime statistics provided by the Edina Police Department, over 1,500 acts of vandalism have been reported since 2001—a troubling statistic for residents, the Police Department, and on a more personal level, for Keprios. “When I see that kids have resorted to vandalism, I feel like I’ve failed at my job,” said Keprios, who takes great pride in the activities and events Edina’s Park and Recreation Department provide. “[As Director,] I feel like I should be able to offer some other activities that can replace vandalism, and I’d sincerely love to hear ideas from the public on what some of those activities might be.” However, the truth of the matter is that Keprios has far from failed. Along with working to implement more and more programs for the Park and Recreation Department, he has also helped the City take its most recent step toward curbing vandalism—installing multiple surveillance cameras in and around Edina parks and facilities. “We hope having the cameras will act first and foremost as a deterrent to any vandalism,” said Keprios, “but we also hope that potentially catching some of the destruction in the act will also help reduce future vandalism.” A wave of damage to the public restrooms within multiple City parks, as well as a series of graffiti “tagging” incidents in 2006, served as the deciding factors to install the surveillance equipment. Keprios then looked to the City’s Crime Prevention Fund for financial assistance in purchasing the cameras. The Crime Prevention Fund Board of Directors is primarily a citizen’s group, but the Chief of Police also sits on the committee. The group is dedicated to Park And Recreation Department Works To Curb Vandalism 38•SPRING2008 Property was damaged in a break-in at one of Edina’s park shelter buildings A picnic table in one of Edina’s parks was “tagged” by graffiti. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 41 41•SPRING200840•SPRING2008 According to Mork, it’s the volunteers who make the Auxiliary a success; they give up their time to support a cause they feel strongly about. These volunteer members come from all walks of life. Member Murt Sherek, a retired Fairview Southdale nurse, joined because of her ties with the hospital. “The Auxiliary keeps parts of the hospital going that are often transparent to patients and staff,” said Sherek. “For me, getting involved is a great way to learn new things and do activities with others in the community.” In addition to the strong volunteer base, the Auxiliary is comprised of a Board of Directors, whose members organize meetings and oversee the projects they are involved in. Mork believes that being a part of healthcare is more important today than ever. “If you are looking for a way to give back to the community, the Auxiliary is a perfect way to make a difference in the healthcare field,” she said. The same spirit of giving and helping others is shared by all members of the group. Pat Bores, Past President of the Auxiliary, echoes the sentiment of all Auxiliary members. “It is so fulfilling to raise money you know is going back to directly help people,” said Bores. “Auxiliary dollars go straight to hospital programs that, unfortunately, aren’t always a priority due to budget constraints.” The Fairview Auxiliary holds monthly board meetings, three social luncheons and multiple other events throughout the year. Currently, the Auxiliary attracts members through word-of-mouth, collaboration with other volunteer groups and networking opportunities. New members are always welcome to join and volunteer. Time commitments will vary depending on the area of involvement, but there is no guideline for how much or little time someone spends on an activity. The cost of a general membership is $15 annually, and a supporting membership is $25 annually. To become a member of the Fairview Auxiliary, or for more information, call 612-672-7272 or visit www.Fairview.org. By Ryan Olsen and Marty Doll Dignity, service, integrity and compassion—these are the core values that serve as cornerstones for the Fairview Auxiliary. For over 100 years, the organization has been supporting Fairview hospitals with funding for charity care, health education, mental health, women’s health services and the like. “You make a living with what you get, but you make a life with what you give,” said Jeanne Mork, President of the Fairview Auxiliary, which supports Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina as well as Fairview Ridges Hospital and the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview Riverside campus. The outreach and services provided by the Fairview Auxiliary have grown exponentially since it first took root in 1906. At that time, a group of immigrants seeking improved healthcare sold $1 memberships to raise funds to build a hospital along the Mississippi River near Fairview Park. The group eventually outfitted the hospital ward for $413.07, and thus, the Auxiliary began. Today, the Auxiliary supports a number of hospital programs including free coffee in family lounges, grief services, art displays, educational literature, amenities for children and seniors, music therapy and volunteer scholarships. Annually, the Auxiliary gives back around $130,000 via grants and scholarships to enhance these programs. Each decade, the group has taken on new programs within the hospital, but the goal has always remained the same—enhance the lives of patients, their families and the staff of Fairview hospitals in the community. “The Auxiliary is really centered around patient education and patient enhancement,“ said Bradley Beard, President of Fairview Southdale Hospital. “They provide a lot of wonderful services for the hospital that people are sometimes unaware are provided by the Auxiliary.” In order to raise the funds that they donate back to hospital programs or award in scholarships, the Fairview Auxiliary relies on a group of more than 100 volunteer members who raise money in a plethora of unique ways. Their most profitable forms of fundraising include managing the hospital gift shops, selling new baby photos and administering the sale of goods by outside vendors. Fairview Auxiliary Has Long Tradition Of Giving Back The gift shops generated $80,000 for Auxiliary grant programs in the 2006-2007 fiscal year. The Fairview Auxiliary operates gift shops on the Southdale, Ridges and U of M Riverside Hospital campuses. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 43 43•SPRING200842•SPRING2008 About Town MagazineApril 2008 3.625” x 3.625”X ENVIRONMENT. YOUR OURCOMMITMENT. © 2 007 XCE L EN E RG Y INC. AtXcelEnergy,weworkhardtomeettoday’senergyneedswhileprotecting theenvironmentoftomorrow.Forexample,evenaswehaveincreased our system-wide energy production over the past decade, we have also significantlyreducedourairemissionrates.Moreenergy.Feweremissions. Meetingorexceedingcurrentregulatorystandards.Notjustcleanerair,but aclearlybrighterfutureforthenextgeneration.Tolearnmoreaboutour commitmenttotheenvironment, gotoxcelenergy.com. YourLife.OurEnergy.xcelenergy.com 30086 XL BES_MN_Environment_3.625x3.625_ATM_April_FNL.indd 12/11/08 5:21:01 PM Carmen Wife, mom and grandma Fairview Southdale Hospital is proud to partner with Minnesota Heart Clinic in providing patients the best heart care in Minnesota Visit southdale.fairview.org/heartcare to learn more. I might have made my last family meal when I had my heart attack. I went to Fairview Southdale Hospital.My doctors and the staff performed life-saving angioplasty and heart surgery.They gave me back my life. I’m working again in my favorite place – the kitchen – with a new view about how to live well and healthy. It’s because my Fairview hospital took exceptional care of me. HealthGrades rates Fairview Southdale Hospital #1 in Minnesota for heart, stroke and pulmonary care. MATTHIAS K.BULDERS design/build, remodel, additions Edina’s quality custom builder. 612-239-8555 Lic. # 20250458 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 45 45•SPRING200844•SPRING2008 By Ryan Olsen Jeff Long was recently promoted to Deputy Chief of Police. Long has lived most of his life in Edina and is thrilled to take on new responsibility within the Edina Police Department. Long started his law enforcement career in 1987, becoming a Community Service Officer and shortly thereafter, a Patrol Officer. He has served as a Patrol Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant and has led both the Patrol and Investigations units for Edina, all while residing in the community. As a member of the Edina Fast Pitch Association, Christ Presbyterian Church and an inaugural member of Edina’s intergenerational dialogue panel, Long has a strong tie to the community. He has also worked with the community as an officer with the DARE and Junior Police programs. Being so connected to the community, Long is a strong believer in community-based policing. “The Edina Police Department prides itself in being responsive and there for the community. Anyone is free to call and talk about matters with us. The police and the residents need to be involved to make the community even better,” said Long. The Edina Police Department has a number of tools at its disposal that many other communities are lacking or don’t have the resources for, such as bicycle and motorcycle patrols, an Emergency Response Team, hostage negotiators and the relatively new K-9 program. “These programs are things that many other communities don’t have, but they are useful tools in keeping residents safe and being prepared for anything,” Long said. Long holds a degree in Criminal Justice from Metro State University. He also attended two premier schools for law enforcement executives on top of his education in criminal justice, including the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va., in 2004. Students there are trained for 10 weeks by the same instructors as FBI agents. Long also attended another 10-week course, the Northwestern Police Staff and Command program. Similar to the FBI Academy, it teaches law enforcement executives relevant coursework. Long hopes to better serve the residents of Edina with his special training. Lt. Dave Nelson has “nothing but respect” for Long and has enjoyed a great working relationship with him. Nelson cites the time when he and Long were both sergeants of different divisions within the Police Department: “We’ve always gotten along very well and we have constantly been on the same page. We brought the patrol and investigations units closer by opening up communication between the groups.” Long, who succeeds retiree Ken Carlson in the position, is excited to take on his new duties at the Police Department and looks forward to continuing the great relationship between the Edina Police Department and the community. For more information, call the Edina Police Department at 952-826-1610. Edina Resident And Police Officer Promoted To Deputy Chief Skip & Debbie Thomas REMAX RESULTS Edina Graduates • Edina Residents Sam Giannakakis Senior LoanOfficer Direct: 952.820.3272 Fax: 952.820.3372 Cell: 612.816.1511 Pager: 952.907.3380 Email: sam@lakelandmortgage.com RESULTS Call For A Free Loan Approval! Call For A Free Market Analysis Skip & Debbie Thomas GRI, Realtors 5201 Eden Avenue Edina, MN 55436 Direct: 952.848.2404 Home: 952.927.4804 Fax: 952.848.2410 Email: skipthomas@iwon.com Website: www.skipthomas.com Sam Giannakakis Lakeland Mortgage Corporation TOP Producers that sell & finance homes in Edina and the Twin Cities! Active in EdinaJeff Long was promoted to the position of Deputy Chief of Police in January. Photo by Polly Norman 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 47 47•SPRING200846•SPRING2008 By providing customized investment strategies, we can work closely with investors to help them manage their wealth. Our Financial Advisors take the time to understand each investor’s needs and goals, and seek to deliver solutions that address their specific needs. Depending on investors’ needs, we can also offer access to global resources, which include lending solutions, alternative investments and insightful research. That’s what we mean by “You & Us.” For more information, call: 952-848-8040 877-850-6022 4999 France Avenue South, Suite 200, Edina, MN 55410 ©2008 UBSFinancial Services Inc. All Rights Reserved. Member SIPC. 7.5" x 7.5”7.06_7R1015_Edina rev 2Image About Town Magazinehs/kier quarterlysuz bw7R_Edina_13729123 You &Us. Continuing our commitment to Edina investors. Paul Bordonaro Branch Manager Senior Vice President–Investments Nick Cronin Senior Vice President–Investments Keith Fahnhorst Senior Vice President–Investments Tiffany Fahnhorst Financial Advisor Pete Gabler Financial Advisor Blane Hammer Senior Vice President–Investments Bob Hannah Financial Advisor Jim Hay Financial Advisor Dave Horan Senior Vice President–Investments Ryan Johnson Financial Advisor Bob Kaufman Vice President–Investments Mike Koob Vice President–Investments Peter Levy Associate Branch Manager Senior Vice President–Investments Scott Schachtman Assistant Vice President–Investments Jim Wilkinson Financial Advisor 07-AAE-050 AbdoADS 10/11/07 5:05 PM Page 3 YY oouurr AAdd HHEE RR EE !! Showcase your business to over 47,000 Edina residents in the Citys official publications: About Town and Park & Recreation Insider Great Rates and Options Available Contact Marty Doll, Communications Coordinator mdoll@ci.edina.mn.us * 952-826-0396 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 49 49•SPRING200848•SPRING2008 position was created to further develop standards for EDINA16 and new programming for the government access channel and website. Denfeld, 31, is a graduate of the Minnesota School of Business with a degree in video and media production. Before being named Cable Coordinator, he worked as one of seven part-time Cable Production Assistants in the department. During that time, he also worked in retail management, most recently as an Inventory Control Specialist for Apple Computers. “This new opportunity is very exciting for me,” Denfeld said. “I am enthusiastically looking forward to helping EDINA 16 become even better with more great programming. I truly believe that we have the resources and the ability to make a difference in the lives of the residents of Edina by providing an enjoyable, creative and informative service, both on cable television and on the web.” Other members of the department include Cable Production Assistants Steve Christiansen, Aaron Klein, Michael Moutrie, Christina Scipioni, Patrick Smith and Chris Yocum, and Communications Intern Katelyn Nelson. They are supported by City Hall Receptionist Lynette Biunno. For more information on the Communications & Marketing Department, call 952-833-9520 or visit www.CityofEdina.com. Adynamic duo of talent and creativity, Marty Doll and Scott Denfeld recently joined the City’s Communications & Marketing Department. Doll, 25, began work as Communications Coordinator Dec. 31, succeeding Laura Fulton in the position. Although Doll is new to Edina, he is not new to working in government communications. Prior to beginning in Edina, Doll worked as a Public Information Technician for Anoka County. He spent much of his time there working in the audio/visual area putting together presentations, working on video productions and acting as an interim host for Anoka County’s monthly television program, “Anoka County Today.” With a degree in Mass Communication and an emphasis in Broadcast Journalism from Minnesota State University- Moorhead, Doll will contribute much to the City’s diverse Communications & Marketing Department. He will write a variety of articles and stories for the many publications distributed by the City, including About Town, and sell advertising for some of those publications. He will also assist the Edina Community Channel 16 (EDINA 16) production crew in developing and executing programs. Doll is looking forward to implementing the skills he has learned and being able to use them to communicate with Edina residents. “This is an exciting opportunity for me,” said Doll. “I’m really looking forward to getting to know the people and businesses in Edina and to help provide them with the quality news, information and services they have grown accustomed to from this department.” “With his fresh ideas and previous government communication experience, Marty is an excellent addition to Edina's Communications & Marketing Department,” said Communications and Marketing Department Director Jennifer Bennerotte. “Among other things, business owners and managers will enjoy working with him on advertisement opportunities and residents will enjoy reading his articles.” Denfeld was promoted to the new position of Cable Coordinator in February. As programming on EDINA16 and use of the website have grown in recent years, so have related staffing needs. Among other things, the Doll, Denfeld Begin Work In Communications & Marketing Department Scott Denfeld and Marty Doll recently joined the City’s Communications & Marketing Department. Photo by Polly Norman 995522..994444..11002288 **wwwwww..ggeennttlleettrraannssiittiioonnss..ccoomm “Move Management Services Since 1990” 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 51 51•SPRING200850•SPRING2008 Those who made donations of $300 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2007 were: Given To/For Edina Baseball AssociationIn memory of Morgan Nesser Edina Community FoundationEdina Senior Center for pedestal table Those who made donations of $500 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2007 were: Betty and Woody CaterEdina Art Center Sandra ClarkEdina Art Center Beverly GyllenhaalEdina Art Center Michael KellyEdina Art Center Jerry Riach Edina Art Center for kiln and kiln furniture Claire R. Schwanebeck Edina Art Center State Farm Company Foundation Braemar Golf Course Alexander TerryBraemar Golf Course Those who made donations of $1,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2007 were: Sandra ClarkEdina Art Center Commerce Bank of EdinaCentennial Lakes Park for Sunday concert series Commerce Bank of EdinaCentennial Lakes Park for Sunday concert series Edina Community FoundationGrant-in-Aid Program 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. Edina Park and Recreation creates community through people, parks and programs. In the year 2007, more than $60,900 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 2007,” said Park and Recreation Director John Keprios. More Than $60,000 Donated To Park And Recreation Department In 2007 Edina Community FoundationMeals for Senior Volunteer Recognition Edina Garden CouncilMetal arches for Memory Garden at Arneson Acres Park Edina Public SchoolsPamela Park softball complex fencing Edina BoostersPamela Park softball complex fencing Jessen PressYouth Sports Code of Conduct brochures United Properties Edina Art Center Those who made donations of $3,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2007 were: Given To/For Edina Crime Prevention FundSecurity at three park buildings Edina Girls Fast Pitch AssociationPamela Park softball complex fencing Those who made donations of $5,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2007 were: Edina Baseball AssociationIn memory of Morgan Neeser Edina Community FoundationCynthia Krieg Memorial Stewardship Grant (trees at Pamela Park) Edina Garden Council Irrigation system at Arneson Acres Park Those who made donations of $10,000 or more to the Edina Park and Recreation Department in 2007 were: Fairview Southdale Hospital July 4th fireworks For more information on donations made in 2007 or to make a donation to the Park and Recreation Department, contact Keprios, 952-826-0430. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 53 53•SPRING200852•SPRING2008 Edina City Hall4801 W. 50th St.952-927-8861 Edina Aquatic Center4300 W. 66th St.612-928-4582 (May-August) 952-826-0431 Edina Art Center4701 W. 64th St.612-915-6600 Braemar Arena7501 Ikola Way952-941-1322 Braemar Golf Course6364 John Harris Drive952-826-6799 Braemar Golf Dome7420 Braemar Blvd.952-826-6744 (November-April) Centennial Lakes Park7499 France Ave. S.952-832-6789 Edina Liquor (50th & France)3943 50th St.612-928-4551 Edina Liquor (Grandview)5013 Vernon Ave.612-928-4566 Edina Liquor (Southdale)6755 York Ave. S.612-928-4555 Edina Senior Center5280 Grandview Square952-833-9570 Edinborough Park 7700 York Ave. S.952-832-6790 Fire Station No. 16250 Tracy Ave.952-826-0330 Fire Station No. 27335 York Ave.952-832-6080 Fred Richards Golf Course7640 Parklawn Ave.612-915-6606 (April-September) Public Works Building5146 Eden Ave.952-826-0376 Dial 9-1-1 to: •Report an incident that requires a Police Officer at the scene (assaults, burglaries, domestic disputes, accidents, etc.). •Summon a paramedic or ambulance. •Report a fire. •Report suspicious, criminal activity (alarms, shots fired, shouts for help, sounds of breaking glass, unfamiliar person carrying items from a house, etc.). •Report a sewer backup or other Public Works emergency that requires immediate attention. When in doubt or unsure of any situation, call 9-1-1 and the dispatcher will assist you. Call 952-927-8861 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday for general information. If you have a situation after hours or on weekends, but do not require immediate response from a paramedic, firefighter, police officer or Public Works crew, call the Police Department’s non-emergency number, 952-826-1610. City Of Edina Facilities Hundreds of children enrolled in more than 70 summer day camps at the Edina Art Center will enjoy healthy sides of nutritious snacks and lively exercises and game breaks. Camps in clay, drawing, knitting, painting, mask-making, theater games, mosaics, watercolor, portraits and more will feature 20-minute daily activities to promote healthier living. Fresh fruits and vegetables replace cookies and crackers for treats. “As we’ve all read, poor food selections and physical inactivity are increasingly associated with chronic problems related to overweight children,” said Anne Spooner, Edina Art Center Program and Gallery Coordinator. “Positive feedback from parents indicates they appreciate our efforts to help curb this problem. And, the students like it, too.” Leading the exercise element in the morning camps will be Batbaatar Nyangar. An award-winning gymnast and acrobat, the Mongolian native currently coaches at Circus Juventas in St. Paul. He attended the Moscow Circus School for four years, holds a master’s degree in several disciplines and was honored by The International Children's Festival in the Soviet Union. A participant in the Art Center’s Cultural Explorations Program, Nyangar has been featured in the annual Carnival of the Arts event at the Center. The date for this year’s Carnival is Sunday, Oct. 5. “The goal of our innovative exercise breaks at Summer Camps is to have a good time while moving constantly in some way for 20 minutes," Nyangar explained. “Simple, familiar tools like hula hoops and hacky sacks will add variety and fun to solo and group activities.” Camps run June 10 through Aug. 28 for ages 4 through 12. Opportunities are available for late registration and Edina residents who are Edina Art Center members receive a $5 discount per camp. For more information on the camps or the more than 100 adult workshops and Art for All Ages classes, call 612-915-6600 or visit www.EdinaArtCenter.com. The Edina Art Center is open 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. The facility is located one mile west of Southdale Center in Rosland Park at 4701 W. 64th St. Summer Art Camps Promote Creativity And Good Health Hundreds of children will participate in the Edina Art Center’s more than 70 summer day camps. 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 55 55•SPRING200854•SPRING2008 O F M I N N E S O T A RENT ONE OFFICE,USE FIVE LOCATIONS Edina • St. Louis Park • Bloomington/ Airport IDS/Downtown Minneapolis • Woodbury Executive offices from $600 per month. 1-2 person offices with reception services, High Speed T-1 service, Flexible Lease Terms. Locally owned and operated since 1990. For information, please see our website at www.exsmn.com or call us at 952-851-5555 Executive SuitesEExxeeccuuttiivveeSSuuiitteess West 50th & Vernon Avenue at Hwy. 100 952-920-3996 www.washburn-mcreavy.com Family Owned & Operated Since 1857 EDINACHAPELFUNERAL& CREMATION SERVICES Annie Ballantine Residential Interior Designer AlliedMember,ASID International Market Square Suite 548Phone: 651-472-3518 Fax: 612-435-4993 1)Assistant City Manager Heather Worthington dressed as Queen Elizabeth II to encourage employees on a “walk” to Beijing. City employees used pedometers to measure their steps, with the goal being the site of the 2008 Olympics. London is an estimated 15 million steps from Edina, and one of the stops on the group’s way to Beijing. 2) Hundreds of people rented skates for the Winter Ice Festival at Centennial Lakes Park. The event has been a winter tradition at the unique park for many years. 3) Ayoung girl warms up with some hot chocolate at the Jan. 13 Winter Ice Festival at Centennial Lakes Park. 4) Edina High School students Birgen Hartman and Emma Weisberg helped spearhead an Edina Dialogue event in January. “Understanding What Life Is Like in Darfur” was the topic of the Jan. 21 event. The students posed with Mayor Jim Hovland before the program attended by more than 300 people. 5) Ice carver Roger Rust tends to his craft at the Winter Ice Festival at Centennial Lakes Park in January. Send Us Your Photos! Photos clearly marked with names and related businesses should be sent to the City at: 4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424 Photo Gallery 5 1 32 4 9910 About Town Spring 2008 3/10/08 2:16 PM Page 57