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AboutTown Magazine City of Edina 4801 West 50th Street Edina, MN 55424 www.CityofEdina.com Official Magazine of the City of Edina ©C O L O U R S 2 0 0 9 Historic Edina Bridge Gets a Facelift See Page 36 For Details SPRING•2009 AboutTown PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGEPAID Permit No. 3932 Minneapolis, MN ***ECRWSS***POSTAL PATRONCAR-RT-WS AboutTown Volume 20, Number 2 Spring 2009 Official Publication of the City of Edina, Minnesota 4801 West 50th Street Edina, Minnesota 55424 952-826-0359 Circulation 25,000 Editor: Jennifer Bennerotte Assistant to the Editor: Marty Doll Contributing Writers: Joe Sullivan, Dick Crockett, Kaylin Martin Publisher: City of Edina About Town is produced by the City of Edina. To advertise in About Town, contact Marty Doll, 952-826-0396 . Copyright 2009 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 Jackie Dummer Edina Senior Expo Set For April 28 1 • SPRING 2009 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 9 a.m., Pat Greer Retrospective opens, Edina Art Center. 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 9:30 a.m., Music for Children begins, Edina Art Center. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 252-4 p.m., “Pat Greer – A Retrospective” closing exhibit reception, Edina Art Center. 2827 8 a.m., Spring hydrant flushing begins east of Minnesota Highway 100. 26 April 2009 29 30 16 About Town Calendar 2 • SPRING 2009 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 6:30 p.m., Video Editing Workshop, Edina Art Center. 2 3 4 Adult Softball begins. 8 a.m., Spring hydrant flushing begins west of Minnesota Highway 100. 5 6 3:30 p.m., Teddy Bear Picnic, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 8 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Edina Garden Council plant sale, Arneson Acres Park. 9 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Edina Garden Council plant sale, Arneson Acres Park. 1:15 p.m., Mom & Me Spa Party, Arneson Acres Park. 10 11 6:30 p.m., Therapy Workshop for adults, Edina Art Center. 12 13 15 16 17 Edina Bike Parade, Rosland Park. 18 4:15 p.m., Clay for kids ages 10-13 begins, Edina Art Center. 19 20 21 22 23 262524 May 2009 27 28 29 7:30 p.m., Edina Chorale Spring Cabaret Pops Concert, The Mahon Center at St. Patrick’s Church. 10 a.m., Collage and Hand-Colored Paper Workshop, Edina Art Center. 14 30 7:30 p.m., Edina Chorale Spring Cabaret Pops Concert, The Mahon Center at St. Patrick’s Church. 10 a.m., Collage and Hand-Colored Paper Workshop, Edina Art Center. About Town CalendarTable of Contents Calendar Of Events .............................................................................1 Spring Calendar Highlights ..............................................................4 A Word From The Mayor .................................................................5 Sioux Uprising Of 1862 – Minnesota’s Civil War Within A Civil War ....................................6 It’s Not Only Neighborly … It’s The Law ....................................14 Executive Director Connects With Kids ........................................16 Business Notes ..................................................................................20 Edina Community Foundation: Meet Our Board Of Directors ..........................................................24 Help Wanted? Edina Cops For Hire ..............................................30 Edina Morningside Rotary Club Plans To Break Guinness World Record ..................................................34 Historic Edina Bridge Gets a Facelift .............................................36 Edina Welcomes New Senior Librarian .......................................................................40 More Than $123,000 Donated To Park & Recreation Department In 2008 .........................................42 City Calls For Entries In Annual Photo Contest ......................................................................44 Committee Works to Beautify the Edina Promenade .................48 Edina SuperTarget Wins Exclusive Award ...................................52 Photo Gallery .....................................................................................54 31 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. Noon, Wonderful World of Woody, Edinborough Park. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., South of the River Band, Edinborough Park. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Eagan Men’s Chorus, Edinborough Park. Noon, Bob the Beachcomber, Edinborough Park. Spring classes begin, Edina Art Center. 5 p.m., Board of Appeal & Equalization, Edina City Hall. 1-3 p.m., Blood Pressure Checks, Edina Senior Center. 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. Junior golf registration, Braemar Golf Course. 9 a.m., Caricature class with Judy Lieber, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Somewhat Dixieland Band, Edinborough Park. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Brooklyn Community Band, Edinborough Park. 7 p.m., Photography Class, Edina Art Center. Noon, Will Hale and the Tadpole Parade, Edinborough Park. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 8:30 a.m.-Noon, Senior Expo, Colonial Church of Edina. 7 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. Noon, Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day Workshop, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Edinborough Park. 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. Noon, Annette Fragele – Mrs. Hopkins, Edinborough Park. 5-8 p.m., Garden Art Sale opening reception, Edina Art Center. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Eden Prairie Community Band, Edinborough Park. Hearing tests by appointment, Edina Senior Center. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Harmonic Relief, Edinborough Park. Noon, Bob the Beachcomber, Edinborough Park. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Northern Winds Concert Band, Edinborough Park. 1-3 p.m., Blood Pressure Checks, Edina Senior Center. 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Debbie Bigelow & Dean Kleven, Edinborough Park. 7 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Scott Fraser, Edinborough Park. Memorial Day. City Hall closed.7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. Noon, Wonderful World of Woody, Edinborough Park. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Edinborough Park. The third-annual Edina Senior Expo will be held 8:30 a.m. to noon Tuesday, April 28, at Colonial Church of Edina, 6200 Colonial Way. The Edina Senior Expo is an event aimed at seniors and their families. The theme for the third Edina Senior Expo will be “Lifestyles For A Healthy Brain” and will feature guest speakers, over 60 information booths, fun and refreshments. It’s a “one-stop-shop” way to learn about community resources and agencies that serve seniors and make planning for the future easier. For more information, call the Edina Senior Center at 952-833-9570. A Word From The Mayor “Death is a camel that lies down at every door.” – Persian Proverb Over the past few months, it seemed like we lost so many good people tied in so many ways to our community. Lu Maetzold, mother of former Mayor Dennis Maetzold and his brother David passed away right before the end of the year. Lu had raised those two fine boys on her own after her husband, Ev, had died way too young. She was gracious and kind and loved good conversation. Even at the nursing home, her room was the gathering point for visits. Mark Holmes, a true World War II hero, passed away right around the holidays, too. Mark diligently attended our annual veterans’ dinner at the Centrum held the night before the 4th of July parade and then always rode with his fellow soldiers in the parade the next day. Mark had jaw-dropping tales of working behind enemy lines in Belgium and being saved by a Belgian resistance fighter, being shot down over Germany and escaping west to reach Patton’s army, and his time at the end of the war in France with nuclear scientist Enrico Fermi. Sitting and visiting with Mark and his wife, Bette, was like reliving history. He was an extraordinary citizen soldier. Tom Mahler was a vital middle-aged man enjoying personal and professional success when his life was horribly and abruptly interrupted by a severely debilitating stroke about a decade ago. His flying, hunting, Rotary and working days were gone in a few minutes. Tom worked valiantly at rehabilitation but, despite those efforts, full speech and mobility were never to be his again. Tom and his wife, Barb, would sit outside near their home on Edina Court and watch the 4th of July parade. He could still wave a bit and you could detect a touch of a smile as the parade passed by. Tom passed away around Christmas, too. I have known Otto Bang for many years, but I never knew him when he was a State Senator. In the photos displayed at his viewing, one could see he was a robust and confident man during those legislative years. Time passages captured by those photos showed Otto with short dark hair, long dark hair, a beard, then long sideburns, long white hair and then the Otto most of us have known with his gray crew cut and long sideburns. His work in setting up the Minnesota Legislative Society, designed for the purpose of members simply enjoying each others company, regardless of party, could use present- day revitalization. It must have worked because I saw Otto’s contemporaries, Republicans and Democrats alike, at his funeral in a packed Normandale Lutheran Church. Otto will live on in many ways, one of which is through a fund established in his name at the Edina Community Foundation – the Otto Bang Fund for Seniors. Larry Nelson, one of our teaching pros at Braemar never even made it to age 50. A brain tumor attacked him about two years ago and his family, friends and his beloved students rallied behind him and he fought and fought, then reached a peaceful understanding that sustained him to the end. Larry loved teaching kids and also working with the adaptive recreation group at Braemar. We all know that life goes on, that Presidents die and the world doesn’t seem to miss a beat but a clear sense of irreplaceability exists with Larry gone. Larry Nelson has a wife and two young kids. Despite the grief and the loss, everyone in our town can say about Lu, Mark, Tom, Otto and Larry, and anyone else who recently passed away that those were lives well lived that enriched family, friends and community and we are so sorry to see them go. Peace be with them. Edina will miss them all. James B. Hovland Mayor 5 • SPRING 2009 I 4 • SPRING 2009 Other Dates to Remember: April 14 7 p.m., Golden Valley Orchestra, Edinborough Park. April 16 Noon, Brodini Comedy & Magic Act, Edinborough Park. April 28 1-4 p.m., Health Insurance Counseling, Edina Senior Center. April 28 7 p.m., CC Septet, Edinborough Park. May 12 7 p.m., Beasley’s Big Band, Edinborough Park. May 21 Noon, Brodini Comedy & Magic Act, Edinborough Park. May 26 1-4 p.m., Health Insurance Counseling, Edina Senior Center. June 4 Noon, Music that Tickles with Shawn Sweeney, Centennial Lakes Park. June 4 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, Centennial Lakes Park. June 9 Noon, Bob the Beachcomber, Centennial Lakes Park. June 9 1-3 p.m., Blood Pressure Checks, Edina Senior Center. June 18 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, Centennial Lakes Park. June 23 1-4 p.m., Health Insurance Counseling, Edina Senior Center. Edina Garden Council Plant Sale What: The Edina Garden Council raises many of the plants for the sale. Plants from commercial growers are carefully selected to ensure high quality. Also offered will be a wide variety of perennials and bulbs grown in the gardens of members. The focus of the sale will be plants for containers and small spaces. Proceeds 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 8, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 9 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 43rd annual Edina Art Fair. One of Edina’s premier summer events, it 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. June 5, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 6, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 7 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 18th-annual Parade of Boats. The Parade of Boats showcases a variety of radio-controlled electric and model boats, including tugboats, sailboats, police boats, submarines, steamboats and high-speed electric racers. Club members will demonstrate how model boats are built. When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 14 Where: Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. Info: www.emyc.org Spring Calendar Highlights Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday June 2009 About Town Calendar 2 Noon, Big Fun Show, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 3 7 p.m., Bend in the River Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 4 5-8 p.m., School of Realism exhibit opening reception, Edina Art Center. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 5 Edina Public Schools’ last day of class for 2008-2009 year. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 6 10 a.m., Edina Aquatic Center opens for the season. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 1 7 p.m., North Star Barbershop Chorus, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Edina Art Fair, 50th & France. 7 p.m., South of the River Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 8 10 a.m., Build A Clay Village Workshop, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Brooklyn Park Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 9 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Edina High School commencement, Northrup Auditorium. 10 7 p.m., Good News Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 11 Noon, Dakota Wild Animals, Centennial Lakes Park. 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, Centennial Lakes Park. 12 Junior golf program begins, Braemar Golf Course and Fred Richards Executive Golf Course. 13 14 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Parade of Boats, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 15 Summer Playground Programs & Tennis Lessons begin. Adult Summer Programs begin at Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Redpath, Centennial Lakes Park. 16 Noon, Wiggle, Jiggle & Jam, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 17 7 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Lee Engele Quartet, Centennial Lakes Park. 19 12:30 p.m., Painting Studio, Edina Art Center. 4:30 p.m., Images of Edina Photo Contest deadline. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Chaska Town Square. 20 1 p.m., Edina Promenade Ribbon- Cutting Ceremony, Edina Promenade entrance to Centennial Lakes Park. 21 7 p.m., Northern Winds Concert Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 22 10 a.m., Luminaries Workshop, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Celebration Brass, Centennial Lakes Park. 23 Noon, Alpha Bits Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 24 7 p.m., Zuhrah Shrine Flames, Centennial Lakes Park. 25 26 27 12:30 p.m., Pottery for all ages, Edina Art Center. 2910 a.m., Clay Sculpture Workshop, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Tango in the Park (lessons and dance), Centennial Lakes Park. 304:15 a.m., Clay For Kids begins, Edina Art Center. 28 7 p.m., Stan Bann Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 18 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. Noon, Brodini Magic Show, Centennial Lakes Park. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Movie in the Park, Centennial Lakes Park. 3 • SPRING 2009 By Joe Sullivan Contributing Writer Editor’s Note: This is the first of two articles covering the 1862 war with the Sioux Indians of southwestern Minnesota. The second installment will appear in the summer issue of About Town. In the wake of Minnesota’s observance of the 150th anniversary of its 1858 statehood, I thought it might be appropriate to recall some of the darkest days of our state’s early history. A recent Minneapolis Star Tribune article recapped the Sioux Uprising: “Sparked by white incursion into Indian lands, the battles were fueled by the federal government’s violation of its own treaties, exploitation by traders who impounded payments due the Indians, retaliatory theft and slaughter by the Indians and subsequent atrocities on both sides. Starvation, cultural differences … race hatred, disease and injustice contributed to a conflict that remains polarizing even today.” One Of America’s Worst Indian Outbreaks The nation’s Civil War between the Union and Confederate armies had been underway for 16 months when in August 1862, the 4-year-old state of Minnesota became embroiled in a second civil war. Disgruntled members of the Sioux Indian tribe rose up from reservations in the Minnesota River valley to attack hundreds of white soldiers and settlers in addition to capturing many women and children as hostages. (Please note: the “Sioux” tribe is often referred to as the “Dakota” tribe, but for purposes of consistency with historical accounts, the name Sioux is used throughout this piece to describe the tribe that once inhabited most of southwest Minnesota.) Although only five weeks would pass before the Sioux Uprising was brought under control, at least 450 –– and perhaps as many as 800 –– white settlers and soldiers were killed as were an undeterminable number of Sioux. Thousands of acres of southwestern Minnesota farmland were deserted. Quoting from Kenneth Carley’s history, The Dakota War of 1862: “Measured in terms of civilian lives lost, the Sioux outbreak of 1862 was one of the worst in American history.” The uprising later triggered a series of battles with Indians in other areas of the northern plains that continued until 1890 with the battle of Wounded Knee in South Dakota. Bulk Of Sioux Land Ceded To United States By Two Treaties During the 19th century, the federal government and westward-moving white settlers compressed the Sioux domain through a series of treaties. The two most important were signed at Traverse des Sioux, near St. Peter, Minn., and at Mendota, across the Mississippi River from Fort Snelling. At Traverse des Sioux in July 1851, the Wahpeton and Sioux bands of the Upper Sioux tribe ceded to the federal government the bulk of their land in what was then southwest Minnesota Territory, plus more in Iowa and Dakota. For this land, the government agreed to pay $1.665 million in cash and supplies over 15 years. At Mendota in August 1858, the Mdewakanton and Wahpekute bands of the Lower Sioux tribe also signed away most of their land in southeast Minnesota Territory Sioux Uprising Of 1862 – Minnesota’s Civil War Within A Civil War 6 • SPRING 2009 for $1.41 million in cash and annuities over a 50-year period. Land ceded in the two treaties totaled an estimated 24 million acres, which were opened to white settlement three years later. The Indians –– totaling some 7,000 –– were moved to two reservations, each roughly 20 miles wide and 70 miles long, on both sides of the upper Minnesota River. There, the federal government set up two agencies to administer the reservations. The headquarters of the Upper Sioux Agency was located near the mouth of the Yellow Medicine River, downriver from the present-day town of Granite Falls. The Lower Sioux Agency’s headquarters was about 30 miles further down the Minnesota River near today’s town of Morton. Michael Clodfelter, author of The Dakota War – 1862-1865, described the transformation, saying, “The Sioux domain had been reduced to a sliver of land on the banks of the upper Minnesota River. Only a few of the ‘annuity’ Sioux became real farmers. Those [who] did were scorned by both races as imitation whites and called ‘cut-hair and breeches Indians’.” 7 • SPRING 2009 (continued on next page) Shown in this map are the areas of southwestern Minnesota that were ceded to the United States by the treaties of 1851 and 1858. By 1862, the Upper and Lower Sioux tribes were living on a narrow ribbon of land along the north and south banks of the upper Minnesota River. This painting depicts the 1851 signing of the treaty at Traverse de Sioux, near St. Peter, Minn. The treaty gave the United States possession of a vast area in southwest Minnesota Territory. Present were 35 Upper Sioux chiefs, who stepped forward at the signing ceremony to touch the pen. Pa i n t i n g b y F r a n c i s D a v i s M i l l e t , M i n n e s o t a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y Ma p b y A l a n O m i n s k y , M i n n e s o t a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y block of wood atop a tree stump, the Indians reloaded immediately after each round – a precaution the white men apparently neglected to take. Suddenly, the Indians turned on the settlers and shot Jones, Baker, Webster and Clara, Jones’ daughter. The four Sioux braves had unknowingly set in motion a series of events that would have serious consequences. When the four braves arrived at Rice Creek village, their excited stories aroused the concern of Chief Red Middle Voice, head of the local Mdewakanton band. Although he was in favor of expanding the incident into an uprising, he knew he would need allies. Traveling to the nearby village of Chief Shakopee, they recruited the chief and continued on to seek the approval of Chief Little Crow, the one man whose leadership they felt was vital for a successful uprising against the Americans. They convinced Little Crow to convene a council of chiefs at his village near the Lower Agency. By the next morning, the chiefs and a number of warriors had gathered. After hearing the story of the Acton incident, before committing himself, Little Crow clearly pointed out to the young braves the ultimate futility of a war against the United States. He warned them: “ … You may kill, one, two, 10 –– and ten times ten will come to kill you. … White men with guns in their hands will come faster than you can count.” But the arguments in favor of a general uprising prevailed. Chief Little Crow Orders Attack On Lower Agency Before the council disbanded, Little Crow ordered an attack on the nearby Lower Agency for the following morning. The fateful decision had been made. In his history of the battle, Michael Clodfelter reported, “On Aug. 18, 1862, all the old and new resentments, all the banked-up fires of animosity, all the dormant dreams and old urges combined into a combustible mixture and fed the flames that nearly consumed white Minnesota.” At first light, the Sioux launched a surprise attack against the settlers and soldiers at the Lower Sioux Indian Agency, striking first at traders and farmers. Andrew Myrick escaped from his store, but he was killed before he could reach cover in the nearby brush. His corpse was later found with grass stuffed in his mouth –– the Indians’ retaliation for his earlier ruthless “Let them eat grass!” statement. Indian Raids Along the Frontier Death and terror spread quickly through the Minnesota 9 • SPRING 2009 Root Causes Of The Uprising Many Sioux harbored a deep-seated distrust for the U.S. government, which had neglected its treaty obligations, and the burgeoning wave of white settlers who were trying to claim the Sioux’s remaining land. Other factors that heightened the tribe’s distrust included a winter of near-starvation brought on by serious crop failures the previous fall. But probably the most important single trigger for the Sioux Uprising was the late arrival of the Indians’ 1862 annuity payment of supplies and cash, traditionally received around the end of June. That summer, June and July came and went and the promised government money and supplies had still not arrived. Two reasons were advanced by the government. One was tardy action by Congress to appropriate the funds. A second was a month-long discussion in the Treasury Department over whether to pay the Indians in paper currency or in scarce gold. It was not until Aug. 16 that the customary $71,000 in gold coin arrived in St. Paul –– too late to prevent the uprising. The Indians’ complaints of empty stomachs met with the indifference and scorn of one Andrew Myrick, a local tradesman who handled the Sioux’s food allotments. When confronted with the complaints of the Sioux, Myrick reportedly replied, “Let them eat grass,” an inflammatory statement that spread like wildfire and was regarded by some as yet another cause of the 1862 uprising. The Sioux remained suspicious and anxious. When the annuity money still had not arrived, the Minnesota Indian frontier became extremely combustible. Acton Township Incident Triggered Sioux Uprising On Sunday, Aug. 17, 1862, an argument over hens’ eggs touched off one of the bloodiest civilian events in American history. Four young Mdewakanton braves from Rice Creek village in the Lower Sioux Agency were hunting outside the boundaries of the reservation, 40 miles northeast of their village. Headed for home and near Acton Township, they saw some eggs in a hens’ nest near a fence marking the property of Robinson Jones, who operated a grocery store and post office. One of the braves warned his friends not to take the eggs and risk the white man’s retribution.” Another of the braves said, “You are a coward. You are afraid of the white man. You are afraid to take even an egg from him, though you are half-starved.” “I am not a coward,” the other replied, “and to show you, I will go to the house and shoot him. Are you brave enough to go with me?” The first brave said he was, and all four went up to the Jones’ house where they demanded liquor and became angry when Jones refused. In the house at the time were the Jones’ two adopted children –– Clara Wilson, 15, and her 18-month-old half- brother. Their mother had gone to visit Howard Baker, her son by a previous marriage, who lived a half-mile away. Also at the Baker farm were the Websters, a young Wisconsin couple temporarily living in a covered wagon near the Baker house. Jones left his two children at home and walked to the Baker place. The Indians followed. According to some accounts, the Indians suggested a round of target shooting. Taking turns firing at a 8 • SPRING 2009 (continued on next page) Dr a w i n g b y a n o n y m o u s a r t i s t , M i n n e s o t a His t o r i c a l S o c i e t y In this scene at the Baker house, the Indians turned on the settlers and fired. Four were killed. Ms. Webster, who had stayed in the covered wagon, was not harmed, nor was Ms. Baker, who fell or jumped into the cellar of her house with a child. shattered the Sioux assault with canister rounds that saved the day. Gere, becoming understandably anxious, wrote a hurried dispatch to the commanding officer at Fort Snelling and Gov. Alexander Ramsey requesting immediate reinforcements for Fort Ridgely. After midnight that night, Gere also wrote to Lt. Sheehan, who was returning to Ridgely from a mission with his men. “Force your march,” it read. “Little Crow and about 600 Sioux warriors are now approaching from the northeast and will undoubtedly attack us.” Chiefs Little Crow, Mankato and Big Eagle all recognized that Ridgely should be attacked at once, but in their early morning council they were overruled by their young braves, who preferred to attack the nearby town of New Ulm. The Indians moved off across the river toward New Ulm. Later that morning, Gere’s messenger located Sheehan and his men, encamped near Glencoe. After a 42-mile forced march to Fort Ridgely, Sheehan took over command of the fort from the ailing Gere. Attack On New Ulm Repelled New Ulm had organized its citizens into militia units to defend their town. Unfortunately, men with guns numbered only about 40. Other residents were armed with pitchforks and other crude weapons. They began erecting barricades in the town center, where there were brick buildings that could be defended. The first wave of the initial Sioux attack on New Ulm came about 3 p.m. on Aug. 19, when the Sioux warriors dismounted on the bluff behind the town and began firing. But they were held at bay by the citizen riflemen. After this first attack at New Ulm was repulsed, Little Crow was able to collect an estimated 400 warriors for a second attack on Fort Ridgely the following day. Editors Note: A second installment of this article will cover the second battles at Fort Ridgely and New Ulm and evacuation of New Ulm, surrender of the Sioux, war crime trials, conviction and execution of 38 Sioux Indians and banishment of an estimated 1,600 “peaceful” Sioux, mostly women and children, from Fort Snelling to reservations outside of Minnesota. It will appear in the next issue of About Town, which will be available in July. Photos and background material for this article came from the Minnesota Historical Society library, the Edina Historical Society and the following publications: The Dakota War of 1862, by Kenneth Carley; The Dakota War –– 1862-1865, by Michael Clodfelter; History of Hennepin County Minnesota, by Edward D. O’Neill; Richfield: Minnesota’s First Suburb, by Frederick I. Johnson; and the Minneapolis Star Tribune. 11 • SPRING 200910 • SPRING 2009 River Valley while panic seized other settled areas of the state as Indians attacked white settlers in an ever- widening area. Although the principal action of the Sioux Uprising was concentrated near the Minnesota River, events in this major Indian war would touch 23 southwestern Minnesota counties before it was over. Small groups of Sioux also attacked isolated homesteads along the edge of the frontier. Settlers [had] banded together for strength. In some instances, whole families were wiped out, while in others the men were shot and women and children either killed or taken prisoner. Many citizens left Minnesota, never to return. Others, however took refuge in the closest havens of safety: Fort Ridgely and New Ulm. On the first day of the uprising, Capt. John Marsh, garrison commander at Fort Ridgely, had led 46 soldiers from the fort to investigate reports of massacres in the countryside. In the military’s first engagement of the August uprising, Marsh’s unit was ambushed as it prepared to cross the Redwood River on a ferry. Marsh himself was drowned. Half of his men were slain and five more wounded by the Sioux, who lost only one warrior. Young Lt. Gere Named Commander at Ridgely Nineteen-year-old Lt. Thomas P. Gere replaced Capt. Marsh as commander of Fort Ridgely on Aug. 18. He had only 22 soldiers available for duty and the “boy commander” himself was ill with the mumps. Also on duty were Dr. Alfred Muller, the post’s surgeon; Benjamin Randall, a trader; and Artillery Sgt. John Jones. Fort Ridgely had been reinforced by 155 soldiers and 25 armed civilian volunteers under Lt. Timothy Sheehan. Also quartered at Fort Ridgely were some 300 noncombatant civilians, who had fled to the fort for protection. An Indian attack penetrated to within a few yards of the log buildings, but Sgt. Jones’ four cannons Ph o t o b y J o e l E . W h i t n e y , M i n n e s o t a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y Lt. Thomas P. Gere had been in the army only eight months when he was left in charge of Fort Ridgely. The youthful commander had contracted the mumps during the Sioux’s first attack on the fort. Fort Ridgely was located on a spur of high prairie tableland, 150 feet above the floor of the river valley. The fort was not well suited, either in location or construction, to repel attacks. Deep ravines on three sides offered attackers hidden positions within musket range of the fort’s buildings. Note the stable, which had been set afire by flaming Sioux arrows during the Sioux attack on the fort. Dr a w i n g b y P a u l W a l l e r , Mi n n e s o t a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y Ph o t o b y J o e l E . W h i t n e y , M i n n e s o t a H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y Lt. Timothy J. Sheehan, an Irishman from Albert Lea, was 26 years of age when he took over command of Fort Ridgely from Thomas Gere on Aug. 19, 1862. 13 • SPRING 200912 • SPRING 2009 For you and your business •Diverse class selections •Interactive training •Convenient half-day sessions 651-221-4722 comped.smm.orgComputer Education 15 • SPRING 200914 • SPRING 2009 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. Animals Running At Large Like their owners, many animals like to spend time outdoors in the spring and summer. Pet owners must keep their animals on a leash when off their property. City ordinances prohibit people from allowing their animals to run at large, including cats. There is a common belief that cats must be allowed to roam free and hunt. This notion is not true. Cats will lead healthier, longer and safer lives if kept indoors. Dogs and cats found running at large may be impounded. Owners are responsible for all impound fees that include pick-up, daily boarding, medical attention and licensing. If an animal is found with a current City license on its collar, the dog may be returned to the owner instead of being impounded. All dogs over the age of six months must be licensed. Cats need not be licensed. Licenses can be purchased online or at City Hall, with a current rabies vaccination receipt. When off the owner’s property, all dogs and cats must be leashed. When you go out for a walk or run, your pet must be leashed at all times, including in City parks. An exception is in the City’s off-leash dog area at Van Valkenburg Park. For more information or to report an animal running at large, contact Animal Control Officer Tim Hunter, 952-826-0494. 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. 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 5418 Creek View Lane could water their lawn on even-numbered dates – May 2, 4, 6 and so on. If the weather becomes exceptionally dry for an extended period of time, additional water restrictions might be put into place. However, because residents have faithfully It’s Not Only Neighborly … It’s The Law Congratulations to Skip Thomas, ReMax Results Debbie & Skip Thomas Skip & Debbie Thomas ReMax Results www.skipthomas.com Office: 952.848.2404 Cell: 612.701.5023 Email: skip@skipthomas.com l Edina Business Person of the Year l Edina Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee l ReMax Hall of Fame There is no one else that knows Edina better than Skip! 16 • SPRING 2009 17 • SPRING 2009 By Marty Doll Heather Haen Anderson loves kids, and it’s a good thing – her job depends on it. As Executive Director of Edina’s “Connecting With Kids” program, it’s her responsibility to help mold Edina into a community where all children have the support needed to grow up to be responsible, healthy and caring adults. “I have always really enjoyed spending time with kids, especially in small groups,” said Anderson. “I just enjoy their energy. This organization is a good way to put that to use.” Connecting With Kids is a collaboration between the City of Edina, Edina Public Schools, Edina Community Foundation, Edina Chamber of Commerce and faith community that works to connect high school students and other youth with adults and community programs. The organization is dedicated to building assets that will have a positive, lasting impact on the lives of youth. “I don’t want to sound too cliché, but it really does take a village – an entire community – to raise children right,” said Anderson. Anderson says it is the mission of Connecting With Kids to educate adults in the community and hammer home the reality that it is every adult’s responsibility to help kids build assets that will make them more likely to grow up to be healthy and caring individuals. “Some adults raise their kids and then think they are done with that part of their life,” said Anderson. “But it doesn’t work that way.” Anderson was named the Executive Director of Connecting With Kids in May 2008. She is the organization’s only paid staff member and reports to a Board of Directors made up of members of all of its collaborating entities. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Minnesota and has brought an abundance of experience working with youth and non-profit organizations to the position of Executive Director. Over the past 15 years, Anderson has served as a member of the Edina Soccer Association, chairwoman of the fundraising and executive committees of the Edina Family Center’s Advisory Council, board member of the Edina Education Fund’s marketing committee and member of the Advisory Council of Time Out Together School in St. Louis Park. “Anderson’s long-time ties to Edina along with her extensive background in serving youth-related organizations made her well-suited for this position,” (continued on next page) Executive Director Connects With Kids Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n Heather Haen Anderson was named Executive Director of Connecting With Kids in May 2008. Anderson and Connecting With Kids played an important role in the November 2008 “Kids Voting Edina” initiative. said Gordon Hughes, Edina City Manager and member of the Connecting With Kids Board of Directors. An Edina resident for the past 13 years, Anderson has three children of her own – ages 17, 16 and 14 – and credits them for first getting her involved with youth-related organizations. While her kids have grown up, Anderson has served as yearbook editor for Normandale Elementary, student directory editor for Valley View Middle school and as the coach of her children’s soccer, basketball, volleyball, academic triathlon and robotics teams. Anderson explains that the role of Connecting With Kids is not to find or create “after school programs” for children, but instead, to help shape the mentality of the entire community – both children and adults. “We need to plant a seed that can be spread to other communities as these children grow up,” said Anderson. One particular initiative that Anderson and Connecting With Kids had a strong hand in was last November’s “Kids Voting Edina,” a non-partisan, non-profit initiative dedicated to educating Edina’s youth on the voting process and giving them the ability to vote at the polls. The program, which proved to be quite successful, promoted the importance of voting and civic awareness by guiding students through the real-life voting process. Anderson indicated that a program like Kids Voting is the epitome of what Connecting With Kids stands for, and that the program was a “fabulous coalition that greatly benefited all of the kids involved.” Edina’s Assistant City Manager Heather Worthington and Edina Public Schools Service Learning Coordinator Julie Rogers Bascom, who were both integral in bringing the Kids Voting program to the City, spoke praises of Anderson and the work she’s done in her short time on the job. “[Anderson] has a keen interest in this community and how it relates to our children,” said Worthington. “I am impressed with her ability to identify opportunities for children and enlist the support of other entities throughout the community. Her work on Kids Voting 18 • SPRING 2009 19 • SPRING 2009 was essential in making the program a success, and her outreach to the parents and children of the school district will serve as a solid foundation for future projects.” “Heather came to the table later in the process, and she immediately jumped in to organize our volunteers,” said Rogers Bascom. “It took a collaborative effort between the City, School District, business community and non- profit organizations like the Edina Education Fund, Edina Community Foundation, League of Women Voters and Connecting With Kids to make Kids Voting Happen, and she was a big part of it.” Anderson has already begun work on future Connecting With Kids initiatives. She has helped introduce a “Community Day of Service” later in the fall that will get people throughout the community to simultaneously volunteer their services. “I’d like to try to mobilize residents, both kids and adults, in multiple areas around Edina to volunteer,” said Anderson. “Maybe one family could volunteer at the library or at a food shelter, a teacher and his or her class might organize a clothing drive or another organization could volunteer with the Garden Council on an environmental clean-up project. I’d like to see the entire community get involved.” Anderson believes that kids can truly be a positive asset to community, but the community first needs to be a positive asset to them. “When I look back on my own high school experience, I can’t believe how many more options and programs are offered in Edina than I had access to as a student,” said Anderson. “Edina has always been a leader in providing our kids with the assets they need to be successful, but there is always more that can be done.” For more information on Connecting With Kids, call 952-688-8081, email info@connectingwithkidsedina.org or visit www.ConnectingWithKidsEdina.org. 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 UBS Financial ServicesInc.All rights reserved.Member SIPC. 7.5"x 7.5”7.06_7R0722_Edina rev 4 Image About Town Magazine kier/robin/hs quarterly suz bw 7R_Edina_13729123 You &Us Continuing our commitment to Edina investors. Peter Levy Branch Manager Senior Vice President–Investments Paul Bordonaro 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 Mike Koob Vice President–Investments Scott Schachtman Assistant Vice President–Investments Edina Day Of Service Set For Autumn Oct. 24 will be “Edina Day of Service.” Recognizing the community’s proud tradition of philanthropy and volunteerism, the Edina City Council set the Day of Service. The City and the Connecting With Kids Board of Directors will organize the day of volunteering. Those involved with the planning hope the volunteer activities that day will connect and inspire people in the community while important projects are completed. 21 • SPRING 200920 • SPRING 2009 Business Notes Edina Public Schools Event Card Gains Popularity After a recent facelift, the Edina Public Schools Event Card is attracting more card holders as residents 60 years of age and older sign up to attend school events free of charge. “We have always had the program, but wanted it to become more accessible for applicants,” said Edina Public Schools Communications Manager Jolene Goldade of the redesigned Events Card program. Good for theatrical, musical and home-played athletics events, the Events Card was created to get people invested into Edina schools who don’t have a connection, such as a child in the school district. Since October, about 150 seniors have signed up for the card, according to Goldade. Participation marks a drastic increase compared to 2007, when a total of 72 cards were used at events all year. The Events Card excludes hockey games at Braemar Arena, Current Jam, post-season athletic events and projected sold-out events. To qualify, seniors must be 60 years of age or older and live in the Edina Public Schools District. To learn more about the Events Card, or for an application form, visit www.edina.k12.mn.us. Galleria Welcomes New Boutique After opening up in downtown Edina at 50th & France three years ago, it came time this March for Melly to pack her bags and move to Galleria. Melly, the only Lilly Pulitzer store in Minnesota, is known for its colorful and creative fashion and accessories. Now located between Tumi and Pumpz & Co., Melly has found a new place to call home. “When we first started the boutique, we wanted to open in Galleria, but there wasn’t any space available,” said Mary Mead, who owns the store with her daughter Caryn Kelly. “Then, when our lease [at 50th & France] expired, we decided it was time to go.” Mead and Kelly weren’t the only ones excited for the move. “Melly fits so well with Galleria,” said Jill Noack, Galleria’s Vice President and General Manager. “The boutique is owned by two terrific Twin Cities’ women.” Even after the move, Melly shoppers can expect the same great customer service and brands, said Mead. “We will continue to go out of our way to help our customers find something fun to wear that makes them feel good,” she said. However excited Mead was about the move, she still described the experience as bittersweet. “We’re really going to miss our corner at 50th & France, but we look forward to all the opportunities moving to Galleria may bring.” For more information, visit www.GalleriaEdina.com or shop online at www.mellyonline.com. New Salon Opens At 50th & France Aura Salon, formally known as New Reflections, celebrated its grand opening March 12, during the 50th & France Business & Professional Association’s Ladies Night Out. After ownership exchanged hands in late December, Aura Salon undertook the timely task of remodeling in January, but Salon Manager Susan Johnson said her team enjoyed every step of it. “It was very exciting, but a lot of hard work,” said Johnson. “We wanted to create a quaint, warm and rejuvenating environment that was welcoming to both women and men.” With the addition of a new manicure and pedicure chair, Johnson is hoping to expand her clientele by offering new services, some of which include arm and leg waxing. Even with the hopeful growth, Johnson believes the connection between the stylists and their clientele will remain close. “We take pride in the individual treatment each visitor receives and the quality amount of time they get to spend with the stylist,” she explained. At $40 a haircut, the traditional appointment includes a head, neck and shoulder massage, shampoo and conditioning, hand massage with hot towel treatment, cut, professional finish and a make-up touch-up before heading out the door. The salon will continue its partnership with Aveda to carry only Aveda products, both of which Johnson speaks highly of. “The products are great and, overall, I just admire the mission of Aveda,” she said. Aura Salon is located at 3915 W. 50th St. For more information, call 952-567-7600 or visit www.50thandfrance.com. Mention this article and receive 20 percent off any service. Rotary Club Seeks Award Nominations The Rotary Club of Edina seeks nominees for the second-annual “Chrysanne Manoles Women In Leadership Award.” Reflecting society in 1905, the Rotary organization was limited to male members and remained so officially until 1989, when the Council on Legislation (Rotary’s parliament) voted to eliminate the male-only provision, opening up membership to qualified women across the world. However, the forward-thinking Rotary Club of Edina welcomed its first female member, Chrysanne Manoles, a year earlier in 1988. Manoles continues to be active in Rotary. In Manoles’ honor and to celebrate the work of women in the community, the Rotary Club of Edina is seeking nominees for an annual women’s leadership award. Nominees cannot be current Rotarians and must live, work or volunteer in Edina. Female nominees must demonstrate Rotary’s “Four Way Test” of the things we think, say or do: Is it the truth? Is if fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? To nominate a woman for the prestigious award, submit a one- or two-page letter explaining how the person demonstrates the Four Way Test and what she does in the community. Letters should be sent to Rotary Club (continued on next page) 23 • SPRING 200922 • SPRING 2009 of Edina, 4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424 and be postmarked by April 15. The 2009 Chrysanne Manoles Women In Leadership Award will be presented sometime in May at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Edina. The Rotary Club of Edina meets Thursdays at 12:15 p.m. at the Edina Country Club, 5100 Wooddale Ave. For more information, visit www.EdinaRotary.org. For membership information, contact Membership Director Buzz Bainbridge, 612-419-4767. For more information on the Women In Leadership Award, contact Jennifer Bennerotte, 952-833-9520. Normandale Elementary Teacher Receives Highest Credential Bianca Suglia was born and raised in Romania, moved to the United States in 2002 and has taught fifth- grade at Normandale Elementary French Immersion School ever since. If being trilingual is not impressive enough, she just received the highest credential in the K-12 teaching profession: National Board Certification. “It’s an honor that she’s well deserving of,” said John Devine, Principal of Normandale Elementary French Immersion School. “I know she put a great deal of time and effort into obtaining the certification, not with the idea in mind of it being an honor, but to really look deeply into her practice every day and find ways to better her teaching strategies that will better her students.” Suglia, who received her certification in World Languages: French, is one of nine teachers in the state to achieve the honor this year. “It took a lot of work, determination, sacrifice and energy,” Suglia said of her rigorous efforts. “But it was the best thing I have ever done professionally.” The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) was created in 1987 after the Carnegie Forum on Education and the Economy’s Task Force on Teaching as a Profession released “A Nation Prepared: Teachers for the 21st Century.” Shortly after its release, NBPTS issued its first policy statement: “What Teachers Should Know and Be Able to Do.” “[The certification] was really meaningful to me because it encompassed not only everything that I believe about teaching, but also about who I am as a person, a world traveler and language learner,” said Suglia. The certification is typically obtained after an average of three years of work toward its completion. Suglia finished hers in six months. “It’s a process that seemed to never end,” laughed Suglia. “Instead of doing it little by little, like some teachers, it took over my life.” Through a submission of a portfolio including videotaped lessons with self-analysis and testing in oral and written comprehension and efficiency, knowledge of language acquisition theories and knowledge of how language works, Suglia demonstrated how her teaching improves student achievement. “I have days where I’m like, okay, I wasn’t really a national-certified teacher today,” she said. “But, it gives me something to look up to and an objective way of reflecting on my practice.” “Bianca gives off not just the aura, but the reality that teaching is both an art and science,” said Devine. “People who have a good grasp of that are able to really rise above others in terms of what they do.” For more information about the National Board Certification visit www.nbpts.org. New Addition to CRAVE Brings Four-Season Patio Dining to Guests A glass-enclosed, four-season patio is bringing the outdoors in for the guests of CRAVE restaurant in Galleria. “We were looking to maximize our business by extending our patio availability year-round,” said James Mullaly, General Manager at CRAVE. “Not only can we use it in the winter, but even on rainy summer days.” Opened on New Year’s Eve, the enclosed patio can hold up to 80 guests and is an ideal space for private and corporate events. “The fact that the room is surrounded by large windows, which have the ability of opening all the way, and the inside-out fireplace, make this an attractive place to hold an event,” said Mullaly. The staff at CRAVE is prepared to create an event specified to your taste. Guests can choose from cocktails, hors d’oevres, buffets or a sit-down meal. For reservations or more information, call 952-697-6000 or visit www.cravemn.com. – Compiled by Kaylin Martin Bianca Suglia 25 • SPRING 200924 • SPRING 2009 Edina Community Foundation: Meet Our Board Of Directors Strengthening Our Community By Dick Crockett Executive Director James B. Hovland, the Mayor of Edina, has been the President of our Board since 2001. He is a partner in the Minneapolis law firm of Krause, Rollins and Hovland. Jim is also co-chair of the Regional Council of Mayors and is a member of the 494 Corridor Commission. He belongs to the Edina Morningside Rotary Club and was recognized by the Edina Chamber of Commerce as its Business Person of the Year in 2004. Jim and his wife, LaRae, have two daughters and five grandchildren, two of whom are in the Edina Public Schools. Carolyn Schroeder is a homemaker, nurse and community volunteer, and she serves as Vice President of the Foundation. She and her husband, Clint, an attorney, have lived in Edina for over 45 years and their five children attended Wooddale Elementary, South View Middle School and Edina High School. Carolyn has served as Board Chairwoman of the Minneapolis Children’s Hospital, the Minneapolis Children’s Foundation and the University of Minnesota School of Nursing Foundation. Bonnie McGrath, our corporate Secretary, founded and managed a legal software training business for 20 years. She and her husband, Lee, have been Edina residents since 1993, and they are active in the Country Club Neighborhood Association. They have a child at Valley View Middle School and three other children at Blake School. Geof Workinger, the Foundation’s Treasurer, and his wife, Betty, are long- time Edina residents (since 1968) and live in the Harriet Park Neighborhood. Geof retired from Bemis Company after a career in human resources and employee benefits that included work for Prudential, 3M and General Mills. He has served on both the Edina Planning and Human Relations commissions, and as chairman of the latter, and is now chairman of the Transportation Commission. He has also provided volunteer service and leadership to the Storefront (Youth Action) Group and the Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE). James Van Valkenburg organized the Foundation in 1977, during his seven years of service as our Mayor. He has been on the Board almost every year since then and was its President for most of that time. More recently he has served as Treasurer and is now the Assistant Treasurer. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Edina Art Center and has long been a leader of the Edina Crime Prevention Fund. A practicing attorney before his retirement, Jim and his wife, Pat (now deceased), raised four children in Edina, one of whom still lives here with her husband and 11-year-old twins. Jim lives in the Pamela Park area and was honored by the Foundation Board for 30 years of service by the establishment of a Van Valkenburg Children’s Fund to provide support for children and families in need in the community. Brad Beard is the President of Fairview Southdale Hospital and Clinics and has served Fairview in various administrative capacities for over 20 years. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Edina and serves on the Edina Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He and his wife, Gwendolyn, live in northwest Edina, and they have three children. Bernie Beaver is a partner with Boulay, Heutmaker, Zibell & Co., PLLP, Certified Public Accountants. Bernie and his wife, Pat, have lived in Edina since 1969. Their two daughters attended Edina schools. Bernie is currently a board member of Edina Morningside Rotary Club and is a past board member of the Southdale YMCA and the Edina ABC Foundation. Pat recently retired as a special education teacher in the Edina schools. Ann Bentdahl was re-elected to the Board this fall after serving part of a term in 2003 and 2004. She was an owner and Senior Vice President of Excel Bank Minnesota before it was sold in 2007, and was also President and Board Chairwoman of the Excel Bank Minnesota Foundation. Ann now serves on the Boards of the Minnesota Heart Institute Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Abbot Northwestern Hospital Foundation, Pillsbury United Communities and the Ann Bancroft Foundation. She lives in Edina with her two daughters. Grethe Langeland Dillon is the President of Calhoun Insurance Agency and served a term as President of the 50th & France Business & Professional Association, as well as the Edina Art Fair. She and her husband, Tom, who owns Dillon Engineering, have had their neighboring offices here since 1999, and have recently relocated to Lincoln Drive in west Edina. They have four children under age 16. Grethe has served the Edina Chamber of Commerce and Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People (VEAP) in volunteer leadership roles. Grethe organized the Foundation’s first Holiday Home Tour in her Country Club Neighborhood. (continued on next page) Jim Hovland Carolyn Schroeder Geof Workinger Bonnie McGrath Jim Van Valkenburg Brad Beard Bernie Beaver Grethe Langeland Dillon Ann Benfdahl 27 • SPRING 200926 • SPRING 2009 George Klus is an owner of Trinity Medical Solutions, Inc. in Edina, has served as Chairman of the Edina Park Board and the Youth Sports Task Force, and is a former member of the Rotary Club of Edina. He has been active in the Edina Highlands Neighborhood Association and volunteered with youth and adult groups at Christ Presbyterian Church. He has served as a youth coach in both football and baseball and currently serves as Chairman of the Edina Athletic Facilities Fund. George is a graduate of Edina West High School. He and his wife, Anne, have a son who attends Edina High School. Dennis Maetzold served on the Edina Board of Education for six years before being elected to the City Council in 1995 and then as our Mayor from 1999 through 2004. He is retired from M & I Bank, and he and his wife, Linda, live in the Arden Park Neighborhood. They have been Edina residents since 1972, and their daughter graduated from Edina High School. Dennis is a former member of the Rotary Club of Edina and served as Chair of the Southdale YMCA’s 2005 Y Partners Campaign and on the VEAP Board. Tim Murphy joined the Foundation Board in September. He is the owner and President of Murphy Automotive, Inc, with four locations in Edina. Tim has served as President of the Rotary Club of Edina and on the Edina Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He and his wife, Cindy, and their three children live in Lakeville Brenda Radichel Quaye, a real estate developer, is a Principal in Venstar, LLC and New Era Development, LLC. She and her husband, Nii, and their two children have a home in Edina’s Parkwood Knolls neighborhood and are temporarily living in Shanghai during Nii’s assignment there with ADC Telecommunications. Frederick S. Richards has lived in Edina since 1945 and married Nancy, an Edina Morningside High School classmate. He was the Mayor from 1988 to 1997, after having served on the City Council for the prior 14 years. Fred has also served on the Edina Park Board, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and the Environmental Quality and Transportation commissions. Fred practiced law for 25 years and served as the President of General Office Products until his recent retirement. He and Nancy have three children, two of whom now live in the community with their spouses and families, and they all enjoy the activities and amenities that the City provides. Questions about the Foundation or any of its programs may be addressed to Executive Director Dick Crockett at 952-833-9573 or edinacommunityfoundation@ci.edina.mn.us. Additional information about the Foundation and links to other articles about the Foundation may be found at its website, www.edinacommunityfoundation.org.George Klus Dennis Maetzold Brenda Quaye Tim Murphy Frederick Richards Discoverthe BenefitsofMembership atthe Southdale YMCA Join Todayand GetFitforLife!www.YMCATwinCities.org. Asafe, welcoming place forkids, adultsand families. State-of-the artFitnessCenterswithhigh-tech cardio machinesandstrength training equipment. Over100 FREEGroup Xclassesa week, the “funnest” GroupExercise classesaround.IncludingBODYPUMP, BODYVIVEand Cardio-Kick! FREEKidsStuffchild care while you workout. ComplimentaryAdultFitnessConsultationsto help define yourfitnessgoals. PremierYMCASwim Academyswimlessonsatreduced rates. 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Southdale YMCA 7355 YorkAvenue South Edina 952-835-2567 Discoverthe BenefitsofMembership atthe Southdale YMCA Helping build Edina for 25 years. 612-239-8555 Lic. # 20250458 remodeling additions MATTHIAS K.BULDERS 29 • SPRING 200928 • SPRING 2009 EDINA 50th & France YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD A Full Service Lender Todd Johnson • 6800 France Ave • 612.207.9550 Kara Egan • 50th & France • 612.325.3735 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 Ann Burbidge 952-927-2840 Jeff and Connie Cauble 952-927-1115 Winnie Crosbie 952-927-1165 John Everett 952-927-1646 Cindy Farmer 952-927-1119 Lee Gilbertson 952-927-2850 Jackie Goodlund 952-927-1647 Maggie Goodyear 952-927-1657 Ruthann Holetz 952-927-1624 Stacy Johnson 952-927-1608 Linda Jones 952-927-1781 Mary Greig Krieter 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 Zeb Haney 952-924-8742 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 Melissa Schrader 952-915-7962 Linda Smaby 952-924-8726 Kathie Volland 952-915-7934 Colleen Wahl 952-924-8789 Chris Willette 612-388-8828 Find us at edina6800.edinarealty.com Find us at edina50thandfrance.edinarealty.com REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS We help bring buyers and sellers together. edinarealty.com Open Houses • Active Listings • Home Values • Property Search 31 • SPRING 200930 • SPRING 2009 By Marty Doll What do international superstar Will Smith, Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) champion Annika Sorenstam, former U.S. President George W. Bush and over 47,000 Minnesotans running in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure have in common? They have all been kept out of harm’s way, at one time or another, by the Edina Police Department. While the Police Department is tasked with keeping the City’s streets, homes and businesses safe around the clock, occasionally they are also asked to take on the additional duty of policing a special event taking place within Edina’s boundaries. According to Sgt. Phil Larsen, the Department’s special events organizer, these events almost always involve either “streets or security.” “In order for an organization [holding a special event] to be insured, a lot of times their insurance company will require they provide police protection or security,” said Larsen. “Other times, they will need access to street closures for things like a parade, race or block party and must contact the Police Department to make that happen.” Since “business as usual” does not take a hiatus during special events, officers must be hired on a part-time/off- duty basis for private protection or security. According to Larsen, unless the event is City-sponsored, the Department charges the private entity requiring the security or street closures a rate of $70.50 per officer per hour. Fifty dollars per hour is paid to the off-duty officer and the other $20.50 is used to offset the cost of the City’s insurance, employee benefits, vehicle maintenance and other costs related to policing the event. Larsen says it’s usually not difficult to find people interested in working the extra hours. “Most officers guard their time off pretty carefully, but a lot of them like working these special events,” said Larsen, who indicated that the Department will work an average of 10 special events each year. “This is stuff they don’t get to do every day. They can focus all of their attention on just one service rather than rushing from call to call. We often have way more people sign up than there are spots available.” One such recent event was last December’s appearance of international superstar and actor Will Smith at Edina’s Southdale Center. Smith was in town to promote his movie, Seven Pounds, as well as make a sizeable donation of 300 turkeys to the hunger-relief organization Second Harvest Heartland. Smith’s people requested an army of private security for the event. Help Wanted? Edina Cops For Hire According to Sgt. Tom Draper, the special events organizer at the time of the premiere, 25 officers were hired to handle site security and traffic control. “[Smith] really liked to work the crowd, so we just tried to stay clear as he ran back and forth to his fans on the red carpet,” said Draper. “We would hold up the gates if fans would start pushing against them and just keep watch. The whole event went very smoothly and we didn’t have any problems.” According to Larsen, when an organization like Southdale Center is interested in holding a special event like the Will Smith movie premiere, they must first contact Deputy Police Chief Jeff Long. Long will then determine if the event is a one-time or routine occurrence such as a block party or the annual Fourth of July Parade, or a mega-event where a long-term relationship between the City and the organization is needed. For years, the Edina Police Department coordinated one such mega-event – the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. With participant numbers nearing 50,000, it was one of the largest special events in the City until the race moved to Bloomington in 2005. “We always had the highest regard for the Police and Fire departments in Edina – they were very supportive and helpful,” said Char Plitman, Co-Executive Director of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure – Minnesota Affiliate. “The only reason we left Edina was our growth.” In 2008, the Police Department was presented another mega-event when the City hosted the 63rd U.S. Women’s Open at Interlachen Country Club. According to Larsen, it took two years of planning and discussions between representatives of the Women’s Open and the City to provide enough security and enable one of the country’s largest golf tournaments to go off without a hitch. “There are a variety of entities within the City in addition to the Police Department that help coordinate special events,” said Larsen. “Licenses are needed, communications must go out to residents and fire and health codes need to be followed, to name a few. It used to be that the Police Department tried to coordinate all of these aspects, but now, all of the players are brought to the table for meetings from the start. When every [City] department is on board, it makes my job easier.” While Larsen says there are currently no mega-events coming down the pipeline, he is always prepared (continued on next page) Officers Ryan Schultz and Nate Mendel provide course security at the 2008 U.S. Women’s Open held at Interlachen Country Club last June. Members of the Edina Police and Fire departments pose with actor Will Smith and Minnesota Viking Bernard Berrian at a Dec. 12 red carpet event at Southdale Center. 32 • SPRING 2009 33 • SPRING 2009 for things to pop up on short notice. Until then, the Department knows they will be busy policing block parties and annual events like the 50th & France Business & Professional Association-sponsored Edina Art Fair, which draws over 350 artists and tens of thousands of spectators to Edina each year. For more information on the Edina Police Department special events enforcement, contact Deputy Police Chief Jeff Long at 952-826-0491. Edina Police helped coordinate and provide security for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure until the event moved to Bloomington in 2005. The race drew close to 50,000 participants annually. 4504 Valley View Rd. * Edina, MN 55424www.ej-sunglasses.com The Hottest Brand Name Sunglasses. 952-927-4090 07-AAE-050 AbdoADS 10/11/07 5:05 PM Page 3 Security For The President Working his third, non-consecutive two-year stint as the Department’s special events organizer, Sgt. Phil Larsen has seen his share of big events and famous people, but he says nothing compares to a visit from the President of the United States. “Executive security is a gas,” said Larsen with obvious enthusiasm. “It’s stressful and you’re glad to see him get on the plane again when his visit is done, but working with the Secret Service when the President is in town is my favorite part of this job.” According to Larsen, the President might wake up on a Monday morning and say he wants to visit Minnesota on a Thursday. It is then the job of federal, state and local authorities to make it happen in short order by securing every inch of ground that he will cover during his visit. “It doesn’t matter if he’s a Democrat or Republican, popular or not popular – he’s the President of the United States, and you don’t want anything to happen to him in your community,” said Larsen. So where does protecting the President fall in terms of regular duty versus private protection? “We don’t charge the federal government,” said Larsen. “We’ve tried, but they won’t pay us.” 34 • SPRING 2009 35 • SPRING 2009 By Kaylin Martin On Sunday, May 17, the world’s largest parade of bicycles is set to take to the streets of Edina. Eager to break the current Guinness World Record of a 2,152-bike parade set in Taichung, Taiwan, on March 1, 2008, Edina Morningside Rotary Club members anticipate organizing 3,000 participants with hopes that their own record won’t easily be shattered. “We would like to see Edina, Minn., in the Book for a while,” laughed Annie Kennedy, member of Edina Morningside Rotary Club and chairwoman of the event. To ensure the Guinness World Record has been officially broken, a representative from the company will be present the day of the event to ensure the rules of the bike parade are followed: • The parade route must be 2.2 miles long. • Each bike must be a two-wheeled vehicle powered only by pedaling. All other types of bicycles, tricycles, unicycles, recumbent bikes and vehicles with bike attachments are allowed to participate, but do not count toward the Guinness World Record. • All participants must cycle along the pre-determined parade route and cross the start line and travel the length of the route through the finish line. If a cycle cannot complete the route, it must be deducted from the total count. • There should be no significant gaps in the flow of bicycles and the bicycles must stay in a single-file line, one behind the next. • All bicyclists must obey all rules of the road. The Bike Parade is not a race; a slow, steady pace is key for success. Volunteers will be available the day of the event and a scheduled bike safety demonstration will be given to help keep the parade running safely and smoothly. “It’s an outstanding opportunity not only to get the community together, but to promote the healthy benefits of biking and bike safety,” said Rotarian Steve May, event chairman. While May and Kennedy are confident the May 16 bike parade will break the Guinness World Record, they are still a little apprehensive about putting 3,000 bikers through a 2.2-mile course around Rosland Park in Edina. “It’s going to be a lot of work,” said May, “but by staging the start times and with the help of our volunteers, I know we’ll be able to do it.” After registering online either as an individual or a team, participants will receive a start time and a lane number. On the day of the bike parade, participants will be required to check in on site. Appealing to kids and adults of all ages, May and Kennedy look forward to the awareness the event will create. The cost is $5 per biker and participants are encouraged to find sponsorships for the parade and campaign to raise money, which will be donated to local food shelves and other Rotary-sponsored charities, explained Kennedy. At the end of the event, the team that raised the most money, the team with the most sponsors and the team with the most members will receive recognition awards for their contributions. Kids who raise at least $25 will also receive a free World Record T-shirt. “This is going to be a great way for the kids in Edina to raise money and help out kids who aren’t as fortunate,” said May. “It’s something they can be really proud of.” The Edina Morningside Rotary Club is one of two Rotary Clubs in Edina. The mission of the organization is “to provide service to others, to promote high ethical standards and to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through its fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.” Annually, the Edina Morningside Rotary Club, which includes about 60 members, contributes 72 percent of its budget to programs that impact youth, such as Junior Police, Edina High School scholarships, Camp Enterprise, A Better Chance Foundation and Model United Nations. The Club also holds an annual bike collection in the fall. Last year, 100 bikes were donated to be repaired, cleaned up and then sent back into the community. “Bikes have such an appeal to kids,” said May. “They often give you a first sense of freedom, and lead to fond memories adults have of their own childhood.” Scheduled to take place rain or shine, the bike parade is an excellent opportunity for the greater Twin Cities community to get together and make world history for a good cause. To register, and for more information, visit www.EdinaBikeParade.com or call Steve May at 612-850-5027. Edina Morningside Rotary Club Plans To Break Guinness World Record The Edina Morningside Rotary Club is organizing a Bike Parade May 16. Volunteers will be available the day of the event and a scheduled bike safety demonstration will be given to help keep the parade running safely and smoothly. 36 • SPRING 2009 37 • SPRING 2009 By Marty Doll Edina’s Engineering Department, with guidance from the Heritage Preservation Board, has bridged the past with the present by renovating the City’s 100-year-old Browndale Bridge. History In order to truly appreciate the bridge’s historic significance and recent renovation, it is important to understand its place in Edina’s milling and farming heritage. This concrete arch bridge, contemporaneous with Edina’s namesake – the old Edina Mill built in 1857 – carries Browndale Road over Minnehaha Creek just a short distance north of 50th Street. According to research done when Browndale Bridge was nominated for Heritage Landmark status, it is one of Edina’s oldest structures and one of the oldest bridges still being used for vehicle traffic in the State. While the current bridge has been used by foot, horse and automobile traffic since 1906, the history of the site dates back even further. Historical records indicate that the first bridge at the site may have been constructed as early as 1860 in order to accommodate the village’s gristmill. A number of wood, stone and iron bridges were constructed and subsequently washed away by flood waters until the current concrete structure was built in the early 1900s. According to a historical account in Edina: Chapters in the City History by Deborah Morse-Kahn, the Edina Mill was one of six 19th century flour and timber mills on Minnehaha Creek. Although the mill was closed and torn down in the mid-1930s, the pond and the concrete spillway of the former mill dam remained. The Browndale Bridge, spanning the length of the spillway, is the only surviving, authenticated standing structure associated with the original Edina Mill. The bridge, which currently serves as a gateway to the City’s historic Country Club District, was named a Heritage Landmark by the Edina City Council in May 2007. It is the first and only bridge in the City to be given such a designation, which means that a plan of treatment identifying the goals and procedures for preservation will be followed whenever renovation is required. “It is an example of that era’s work and economy,” said Heritage Preservation Board Chairman Chris Rofidal. Historic Edina Bridge Gets Facelift “It is tied to the Edina Mill and is a true landmark to the City.” Renovation According to reports from Edina’s Engineering Department, although the bridge was considered structurally sound with load-bearing members in good condition, it had been rated “deficient” by the Minnesota Department of Transportation on the basis of its width and alignment. With a drivable surface area less than 18 feet wide, it was difficult for the bridge deck to accommodate traffic moving in both directions. Railings had been corroding and concrete had begun flaking off the surface of the bridge, making it aesthetically unpleasing. City Utility Engineer Jesse Struve, who headed the bridge renovation project, said the City also became aware of some erosion issues with the spillway and embankment that needed to be addressed. They concluded that the best thing for the bridge and the people who use it would be to combine the spillway repairs with a complete bridge renovation. Because of its historical significance, City Engineers decided to restore the bridge as close to its original condition as possible. They used photos from the Edina Historical Society and old plans found at City Hall to help them replicate the original look. Since the bridge’s original railing happens to be on display at the Historical Society, it was also used for reference. The City then received a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Edina Heritage Preservation Board to conduct the renovation. The Browndale Bridge as it looked when it was first built in 1906. The Browndale Bridge as it looks now after its renovation in 2008. This wooden bridge spanned Minnehaha Creek at the site of the current Browndale Bridge in the late 1800s. A number of wood, iron and stone bridges were constructed and subsequently washed away by floods until the current structure was built in 1906. The Edina Mill is seen at the right. (continued on next page) 39 • SPRING 200938 • SPRING 2009 bridge to the spillway. Final touches will take place this spring when the ground thaws enough to plant seeds and lay sod, but Edina’s Engineering Department anticipates the work they’ve done will hold up for another 100 years. “It would have been easy to just tear down the bridge and rebuild,” said Rofidal. “But this bridge is a gateway to the Country Club District and the 50th & France [neighborhood], and by keeping it we will help the entire community remain historically significant.” For more information on the Browndale Bridge, visit www.CityofEdina.com and search Browndale Bridge or call Edina Heritage Preservation Board staff liaison Joyce Repya at 952-826-0462. “This was a completely different project than what we were used to,” said Struve. “We spend a majority of our time on routine street reconstruction. Here, we had to try to follow historical measures. It was a whole different process and a fun change of pace.” With the assistance of a $50,500 grant from the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, Engineers proposed a $485,000 project in which they repaired all erosion issues and rehabilitated the bridge and wing walls with new concrete facing that matched the existing rough-sewn board finish that was used by the original builders. They replaced the corroded railing with a replica of its original lattice-and- rosette metal design and installed a new curb and gutter that added 2 feet to each lane of traffic. According to Edina Director of Engineering & Public Works Wayne Houle, the new 21-foot-10-inch wide bridge deck accounted for major improvements in traffic flow. Although the width still falls short of the typical required width of 24 feet for highway bridges, its historical significance was cause enough to receive a variance. “The Country Club District is also a registered historic landmark,” said Struve. “[Since the Browndale Bridge serves as a gateway to the District], we wanted to follow the same historic measures while also improving the bridge for residents.” The reconstruction project began last August. Struve said the biggest challenge was diverting Minnehaha Creek away from the bridge in order to work on the spillway and the bridge’s underside. To resolve this problem, engineers dug a large channel alongside the bridge. They then dropped in a 60-foot culvert at a depth 1 foot lower than the height of the spillway and strategically placed man-made earth dams in order to route water away from the bridge. “We were pleasantly surprised that they could fix the bridge without tearing it down,” said Rofidal. “Our goal on the Heritage Preservation Board is always to try to rebuild these historic landmarks. For them to be able to redirect the creek and keep the bridge intact was amazing.” Construction of the Browndale Bridge concluded in late November and the creek was diverted back under the Minnehaha Creek was diverted away from the Browndale Bridge while it was under construction last fall. 41 • SPRING 2009 By Kaylin Martin Erin Callahan is not your stereotypical librarian. “What brought me to libraries is not about books at all,” said Callahan, “but more about the person who has a question and there is information on the other side. The problem is they just don’t know how to bridge the gap and that’s what we are here to help with.” It’s not that Callahan doesn’t have an appreciation for books, though. “Don’t get me wrong,” she laughed. “I truly do, I’m just really loving being able to sink my teeth into some of these questions.” Callahan, who began working at the Edina Community Library as Senior Librarian in October 2008, unexpectedly started her career as a librarian her freshman year at Colorado State University where she studied natural resources. After graduating in December 1998, Callahan spent a year in AmeriCorps, working in Minneapolis with Promise for Youth, a once active branch of America’s Promise Alliance that ensures children have the fundamental resources they need to succeed. She then pursued a master’s degree in library information studies from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. In May 2005, Callahan began working for Hennepin County Library as the Outreach Department’s Corrections Librarian for Plymouth’s adult correctional facility. “[Inmates] have information needs like anyone else,” said Callahan. “They appreciate having reading material.” During her work with Outreach, Callahan also volunteered for the library’s At Home Line, a resource allowing homebound people to stay connected to the library. “You’re going to see totally different requests from a person in a corrections facility versus someone in a home,” she said. “I like variety. It keeps you agile.” Staying in tune with her personal philosophy of “keeping it fresh,” Callahan moved on to manage the Children’s Readmobile Service, where she oversaw a staff of four and coordinated visits to 80 childcare providers and 60 classrooms each month. “Erin has unique problem-solving and organizational skills. Her varied experience in library work, in a state prison to managing Hennepin County’s Children’s Readmobile early Edina Welcomes New Senior Librarian 40 • SPRING 2009 literacy outreach, gives her a broad perspective,” said Gretchen Wronka, Hennepin County Principal Librarian. According to an article in the Edina Sun-Current, Hennepin County Library budget cuts and staffing reorganization played a role in bringing Callahan to the Edina Community Library. “I loved working for Edina. It’s a fabulous community,” said Marcia Wattson, who previously held Callahan’s position before taking a job as Senior Librarian for Westonka, St. Bonifacius and Maple Plain libraries. “But it’s fun doing something different and Erin’s great. People are going to really love working with her.” Callahan’s transition has been eased with the help of “Friends,” a non-profit affiliation of the Edina Community Library, which has assisted in getting her acquainted with the community. “So far, it’s been wonderful working with her and I think she’s going to be a great asset to us and the community,” said Jennifer Roach, President of Friends. Callahan says she is thankful for “Friends” and the fact they are taking charge and making sure that the library patrons know there’s a new librarian. “I know working in Edina is going to be a wonderful experience for her,” said Wronka. “The Edina Library will continue to flourish with Erin in a leadership role.” The Edina Community Library is located at 5280 Grandview Square, Suite #101. For more information, visit www.hclib. org or call 952-847-5425. Erin Callahan is the new Senior Librarian at the Edina Community Library. Ph o t o b y P o l l y N o r m a n 5028 France Ave |952.927.7933 |edinagrill.com Summer Maintenance Services:Weekly Mowing/Trimming/BlowingHedge TrimmingSpring and Fall Clean-ups Aeration (Seasonal) Paver Patios/Walkways Mulch/Rock Installation Fertilization (Seasonal Programs)Boulder/ Natural Stone Walls ...And Much More! Call today for your FREE Estimate! 952-270-4869 Or email at greenexpressions@hotmail.com CallForYour FREE QuoteToday! 952-270-4869 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 & Recreation creates community through people, parks and programs. In 2008, more than $123,000 in donations was received. “The City of Edina wishes to extend thanks and appreciation to all those who made contributions to the Edina Park & Recreation Department in the year 2008,” said Park and Recreation Director John Keprios. Those who made donations of $300 or more to the Edina Park & Recreation Department in 2008 were: Given To/For Abigail Berg Memorial in honor of Ben Alden, which will be used to plant a tree at Rosland Park Ralph Malby Braemar Golf Course Memorial Fund for future golf course equipment purchases Jan Miller Northern Red Oak tree for Bredesen Park in memory of dog Francis Donald and Edina Art Center Patricia Sullivan Those who made donations of $500 or more to the Edina Park & Recreation Department in 2008 were: Ken Rosland Edina Art Center for the Juried Show Diana Sitek Memorial in honor of Bonnie Wingert Those who made donations of $1,000 or more to the Edina Park & Recreation Department in 2008 were: Sandy Clark Edina Art Center for the Juried Show Edina Garden Council Michael F. Kelly Edina Art Center for the Juried Show NorthMarq Real Estate Services Mike Wood Garden Park improvements Those who made donations of $5,000 or more to the Edina Park & Recreation Department in 2008 were: Betty Ann Wiens Edina Art Center Edina Community Grant-in-Aid to children and their Foundation families who could not otherwise afford to participate in Park & Recreation programs SVF Edinborough Black Olive tree for Edinborough Park LLC Those who made donations of $10,000 or more to the Edina Park & Recreation Department in 2008 were: Edina Community Fourth of July fireworks Foundation made possible by a gift from Fairview Southdale Hospital Edina Community “Pine Cone” sculpture for Foundation made Centennial Lakes Park possible by a gift from John and Jean Hedberg For more information on donations made in 2008 or to make a donation to the Park & Recreation Department, contact Keprios, 952-826-0430. 43 • SPRING 2009 More Than $123,000 Donated To Park & Recreation Department In 2008 42 • SPRING 2009 LAURIE KERTIS, LTD Interior Design Offering the full spectrum of Interior Design services LAURIE KERTIS, Allied Member ASID5035 France Ave. S. * Edina, MN 55410Office: 612-929-2222 Cell: 612-616-7811E-mail: lkertis@qwestoffice.net Conveniently located at 50th & France in Edina! “Pine Cone,” made possible by a generous grant to the Edina Community Foundation by John and Jean Hedberg, was dedicated at Centennial Lakes Park last fall. 45 • SPRING 200944 • SPRING 2009 With the click of a shutter and the pop of a flash, anyone can take a picture – but it takes a creative combination of intriguing subject matter and composition for that “picture” to be a photograph. The City of Edina is once again inviting all residents and Edina employees to share their most treasured photos of the past year in the sixth-annual “Images of Edina” Photo Contest. Last year’s contest was the most successful to date when a record 60 photos depicting the people, places and scenes of Edina were submitted by 26 individual photographers. The photos were narrowed down to four category winners that represented the City’s vision statement, proclaiming Edina as a preeminent place for living, learning, raising families and doing business. In addition to the four category winners, “Judge’s Choice” and “Staff’s Choice” awards were also given in 2008. Of the six finalists, “Ice Cream Store Delight,” by Frannie Kuhs, which depicts Kuhs’s son eating an ice cream cone outside of the Neighborhood Ice Cream Shop, was chosen as “Best of Show.” This year, for the first time, City of Edina Gift Certificates will be given to overall, category and judge’s/staff’s choice winners. City gift cards can be redeemed at places like Braemar Golf Course or Arena, the Aquatic Center, Art Center, Edinborough Park, Centennial Lakes Park, Senior Center or any other park facility, Edina Liquor, Edina Store online, or for Utility payments and permit/ application fees. City Calls For Entries In Annual Photo Contest The deadline to enter this year’s contest is Friday, June 19. All submissions must be received by 4:30 p.m. and adhere to the following guidelines: • The contest is free to enter and open to both amateur and professional photographers who are Edina residents, work in or go to school in Edina. • NEW THIS YEAR City of Edina Gift Certificates will be given to overall and category winners. o Grand Prize/Overall Winner - $150 Gift Certificate and plaque o Category Winners - $50 Gift Certificate and plaque o “Judge’s” or “Staff’s” choice winners - $25 Gift Certificate and plaque • Photographs must be taken in Edina. • Photographs must be entered in one of four categories that represent the City’s vision statement: o Living o Learning o Raising Families o Doing Business • NEW THIS YEAR Photographers may submit up to a total of four photographs with a maximum of one per category. • Only photographs taken between June 13, 2008, and June 19, 2009, are eligible. • All photos MUST be submitted as 8x10 prints on photo quality paper. Please also provide your photo in an electronic format (.jpg, .tif, or .eps), if possible. Electronic formats should be in addition to, and 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 staff sees fit. • Contest organizers reserve the right to re-categorize or disqualify any entrant. • 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. Frannie Kuhs’ 2008 winning photograph, “Ice Cream Store Delight.” (continued on next page) 47 • SPRING 200946 • SPRING 2009 • 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. An entry form is available at www.CityofEdina. com/PhotoContest for your convenience. • 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 by a panel of professional photographers and communications specialists on subject matter, composition, clarity, lighting, depth of field, artistry/drama, degree of difficulty, technical excellence and overall impact. For more information or to view last year’s winning photos, visit www.CityofEdina.com/PhotoContest or contact Communications Coordinator Marty Doll at 952-826-0396 or mdoll@ci.edina.mn.us. We see more than money.www.western-bank.com Edina 952-857-1707 Maplewood 651-290-7822 Mounds View 651-290-7866 Oakdale 651-290-7844 St. Paul 651-290-8100 2008 Images of Edina Photo Contest winners: “Ice Cream Store Delight,” by Frannie Kuhs: “Doing Business” category and overall winner. “Claude Sigmund and Students” by Jolene Goldade, which depicts 2008 Edina Teacher-of- the Year Claude Sigmund in intense discussion with a pair of students: “Learning” Category. “Flight of the Egret” by Denis Plaster, which depicts an Egret taking flight from one of Edina’s lakes: “Living” category. “Family Fun” by Arlene Green, which depicts a family overlooking a concert at the Maetzold Amphitheater at Centennial Lakes Park: “Raising Families” category. “Spiral at the Park,” by Jenna Klein, which uses a combination of color, black and white and unique perspective to depict a spiral jungle gym at one of Edina’s parks: “Judge’s Choice” award. “Speed Racer,” by Marni Kirchmaier, which depicts Kirchmaier’s daughter in oversized sunglasses riding a plastic car: “Staff’s Choice” award. West 50th & Vernon Avenue at Hwy. 100 952-920-3996 www.washburn-mcreavy.com Family Owned & Operated Since 1857 EDINA CHAPEL FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES 49 • SPRING 200948 • SPRING 2009 The Edina Promenade serves as a spine connecting Centennial Lakes Park to the greater Southdale area. The addition of the new bike pathway could be part of a larger trail system that will be completed over the next five to 10 years. “Three Rivers Park District has trails throughout the Twin Cities and they are looking to make better connections, especially in the suburbs,” said Assistant City Manager Heather Worthington. “Upgrading the Promenade was a good thing to do for those who want to use alternate transportation.” The first phase of construction included mostly underground work: utility upgrades, addition of a raw water line and storm sewer upgrades. It also included concrete pedestrian and asphalt bike pathways and landscaping. “It was a pretty nice corridor and we took the space we had and tried our best to sculpt it to create a more pleasing area for walkers and bikers,” said Greg Brow, Lead Civil Engineer on the project and consultant from URS Corporation. Elongating the Centennial Lakes Park design motif, Kathryn Ryan, URS Lead Landscape Architect, noted that they used the same colored concrete, signage and light fixtures on the Promenade as used at Centennial Lakes Park. The Park was also a good indicator of what vegetation would thrive on the Promenade. Ryan chose to use native and drought-tolerate plants such as prairie and ornamental grasses. Construction of Phase 2 of the project – twin pedestrian and bicycle underpasses on York Avenue – is scheduled to begin in May. The bridges, complete with flags and plants, will be smaller versions of the bridges in Centennial Lakes Park. The current York Avenue underpass is wet, dark and too short to ride a bike under. Along with the new twin bridges, three new plazas will be built along an additional section of pathway off of France Avenue. Scheduled to be built in 2011, Phase 3 of the project includes a pedestrian bridge crossing France. The overpass is an important element in connecting the Lake Cornelia neighborhood with the greater Southdale area, Worthington said. “Right now, you have to cross France By Kaylin Martin With the first phase of construction of the Edina Promenade completed in the fall, the Edina Public Art Committee has put out a call for sculptors with hopes that the Promenade will be home to an outdoor art exhibit by late spring. “I really believe public art enriches and changes lives,” said Linda Kieffer, Edina Public Art Committee Chairwoman. “It can reflect the identity of the community, serve as an educational tool or simply make you smile.” The Edina Public Art Committee is looking to fill nine plazas along the 1.5-mile paved pedestrian and bike pathway with a variety of sculptures. The sculptures can be reflective, kinetic and/or fiber optic components and will be selected later this month based on artistic merit, creativity, public safety and durability in an outdoor setting. “We will choose pieces that will please just about everyone,” said Kieffer. Beginning as a rotating art exhibit, all art pieces will be loaned to the City and an honorarium will be paid to each artist. From June through Sept. 30, the public will vote for the People’s Choice sculpture with a $1,000 first-place award, $750 second-place award and $500 honorable mention. Through the People’s Choice awards, the Edina Public Art Committee hopes to see what pieces have made the biggest impact on the community. The Edina Public Art Committee is working with the Edina Community Foundation to find donors to fund the annual honorariums and to purchase chosen pieces for permanent acquisition at the end of each summer. “Our idea is to have half of the pieces continue to rotate and the other half become permanent Promenade fixtures,” said Kieffer. “That way, there is always a sense of renewal, but the favorites will remain.” A similar styled exhibit is located at Grandview Square Park and has been a reference for the committee’s involvement in beautifying the Edina Promenade. “We want to ensure that our donors feel good about their donations,” said Dick Crockett, Executive Director of the Edina Community Foundation and member of the Edina Public Art Committee. “[We want them to feel] fulfilled by their enhancement to the City and feel good about the sculpture they helped fund.” The first phase of construction of the Edina Promenade was completed last fall. “Raven” by Bryan Young, previously located at Grandview Square Park and later moved to Edina City Hall, is an example of a type of artwork that might grace the Edina Promenade. (continued on next page) Committee Works to Beautify the Edina Promenade Avenue, which at its widest is six lanes of traffic, and it’s not a great pedestrian environment, but with the pedestrian bridge we’ll make living a healthy lifestyle easier,” she explained. The City of Edina received a $1 million matching grant from Minnesota’s Transportation Advisory Board for the development of the pedestrian overpass. “Many residents and businesses supported the City’s application for grant dollars through letters and emails, and really made this funding a reality,” said Worthington. “As we move forward with this project, our residents and business owners will be an integral part of the planning for this pedestrian bridge.” Phase 4 of the project includes the construction of a lined water retention pond to control storm water behind Byerly’s and Macy’s Furniture Gallery. An interactive piece of art is also planned to grace the area as well as pathway and seating areas along the water retention pond. As far as the finished project, Brown takes pride in seeing people enjoying the Edina Promenade. “It’s rewarding seeing people utilizing and cherishing it. With the addition of public art, I think it will become even more of a destination,” he said. “I’m hoping it will enhance the reputation of Edina and the people who live in Edina become more proud,” said Crockett. “Community pride is part of [The Edina Community Foundation] mission to strengthen our community. In the end, it all comes together.” To learn more about the beautification and construction of the Edina Promenade, visit www.CityofEdina.com/Promenade. 51 • SPRING 200950 • SPRING 2009 The individualized and loving care our mother receives at English Rose Suites is unsurpassed in the Twin Cities. Her unique needs are met every day, 24- hours-a-day by staff who are like family. ~Sue Schwalbach English Rose Suites is a nationally regarded memory care program with homes in Edina and Wayzata. For more information call Catherine Clairmont at 612-250-4497. www.englishrosesuites.com 70th Street Gallagher Drive Yo rk Av en u e Fr an c e Av en u e Target Coventry Hazelton Road Byerly’s Macy’sHomeStore York Plaza Pr o m e n a d e Join the City of Edina as the Edina Promenade is officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony 1 p.m. Saturday, June 20. The short ceremony will be held at the Edina Promenade entrance to Centennial Lakes Park, behind Macy’s Furniture Gallery.WE’VEMADE ITEASIERTOGETIN. Now you can become a patron of Braemar Golf Course even if you’re not a resident of Edina. Save big on greens fees, make your reservations up to one week in advance, and enjoy additional discounts on select Pro-Shop merchandise. Please call us at 952-826-6799 or visit braemargolf.com. friendly by increasing the amount of green space by 25 percent. John Dietrich, lead civil engineer on the development team, explained the green changes: the underground storm sewer is perforated piping, letting the water drain directly into the soil. The landscaping runs right up to the building and actual hard-space in the parking lot has been reduced. However, additional parking spaces have been added by changing slanted parking slots into straight slots. After two and a half years of planning, the original Edina Target, built in October, 1973, was razed and construction began on the new store in January, 2007. “It’s what we call a phoenix rebuild,” explained Russell. “As the new store rises from the ashes it’s a challenge, but it’s a lot of fun.” A 10-month construction timeline was implemented to ensure the store would be ready in time for the holiday shopping season and in spite of the quick timeframe, Edina’s SuperTarget was ready to open its doors by Black Friday. Two days before the store was scheduled to open for the public, Target Corporation held a gathering at the new Edina SuperTarget for team members who worked on the project. “The parking lot was lit up and there were people here, so the public started pouring in thinking they could shop,” said Gilmore. “It was an exciting night.” Another exciting night for the team was the MSCA STARR awards banquet. “It was the Twin Cities version of a red carpet event; everyone was there,” said Roberts- Davis “photographers and all the players from MSCA.” “It’s an opportunity for developers to be recognized amongst the peers of their industry as well,” added Russell. Established in 1988, MSCA is a nonprofit trade association and is the largest statewide organization devoted solely to the retail real estate industry, according to the MSCA website. The MSCA awards committee is responsible for development of the annual Shopping Center Tribute Awards for Retail Real Estate. Edina residents are not the only customers who have the pleasure of enjoying the SuperTarget at Southdale. “Our family shops at SuperTarget at Southdale and I know that it has been positively received by Richfield residents as well,” said Madsen. “The SuperTarget at Southdale is an excellent retail development for the area and this project is very deserving of the STARR Award.” Edina’s SuperTarget is located at 7000 York Ave. S. Visit its website at www.Target.com. By Kaylin Martin The SuperTarget at Southdale has been recognized as the 2008 winner of Minnesota Shopping Center Association’s STARR Award for its use of design and aesthetics in the “Freestanding Single User Over 50,000 Square Feet” category. Described by Edina residents as fresh, modern and timeless, the redesigned Edina SuperTarget was a proud accomplishment of Target’s corporate property development team. “When you see a completion of a project, you see job creation and you take a personal pride in seeing someone else that’s really excited about the store,” said Alice Roberts-Davis, Regional Real Estate Manager for Target. Edina’s SuperTarget was judged under eight different criteria: site challenges, governmental issues, overall architectural image, landscaping, creative use of materials, signage, timing/delivery and integration into the community. “[We] especially liked the site lay-out and creative use of corrugated metal panels, the extensive use of glass, including the two-story bay window, and the extensive landscaping and walkways,” said Tom Madsen, one of the seven MSCA STARR Award judges. “We feel it complements the surrounding retail developments along the redesigned West 70th Street corridor and the greater Southdale area.” It was a real collaboration of the City of Edina’s and Target’s work, said Eames Gilmore, Architectural Design Manager for Target and the lead architectural designer on the team. “We worked closely with the City to develop an image everyone was happy with.” The redevelopment of Edina’s SuperTarget also acted as a catalyst in the West 70th Street corridor redesign. Both parties had similar visions when it came to the reconstruction of the area: wider sidewalks, more green boulevards and calmer traffic, said Forrest E. Russell, Regional Development Manager for Target. “Overall, we wanted the space to be more pedestrian friendly.” Further development of the Edina Promenade behind the store was also spurred by the reconstruction of Edina’s SuperTarget. The City’s goal was to create a coherent connection with the store for people who access it by the Edina Promenade, explained Assistant City Manager Heather Worthington. According to Worthington, the updated landscaping and new bike path added to the Promenade are there to encourage residents of Edina to live a healthy lifestyle by walking and biking more places. “Target was great to work with,” said Worthington, “and as the Promenade evolves, we’re hoping Target will partner with us to continue to beautify the property.” With the addition of a plaza dotted with red chairs outside of the SuperTarget and a light display that is programmed to blink red and white each minute to accentuate the brand, the redeveloped Edina SuperTarget is “more friendly, more safe and more fun.” Not only did the team achieve their intended goals, according to Russell, they also managed to make Edina’s SuperTarget and the City’s surrounding property earth- Edina SuperTarget Wins Exclusive Award 53 • SPRING 200952 • SPRING 2009 55 • SPRING 200954 • SPRING 2009 Coverage for backups of sewers and basement drains is available, but not always included in a basic homeowner’s insurance policy. In addition, insurance companies that do offer the protection have varying amounts of coverage. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if you have coverage for backups. If you do not have coverage, consider adding to your policy because in most cases the City’s insurance will not cover your damages in the event of an incident. D o You have insurance for sewer back-up s? Check your policy today! 1) Jennifer Knoop and City of Edina Communications Coordinator Marty Doll were among the hundreds of guests at the Edina Chamber of Commerce’s Emerald Gala Feb. 7. 2) The Chamber of Commerce’s premiere fundraiser, Emerald Gala, included a chocolate dessert fountain at Interlachen Country Club. 3) Guests at a table sponsored by Bremer Bank enjoy dinner of steak and salmon, live auction and raffle winner announcement at the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Emerald Gala. 4) Edina Public Schools Superintendent Ric Dressen speaks at the 2009 State of the Community in February. Dressen and Mayor Jim Hovland spoke about how the school district and City are responding to current economic conditions. 5) Valley View Middle School bus driver Jackie Washburn puts lipstick on her colleague, Howie Newell, after he bet her that his riders could collect more non-perishable food donations for VEAP in December. The two drivers and their students brought nearly two busses full of food to Edina Fire Station No. 1 where Fire Chief Marty Scheerer declared the competition a tie. Being a good sport, Howell made his fashion statement anyway, even though he didn’t technically “lose” the bet. 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 2 4Ph o t o b y J e n n i f e r B e n n e r o t t e 3Ph o t o b y B r i a n S m i t h Ph o t o b y B r i a n S m i t h 1Ph o t o b y B r i a n S m i t h 5Ph o t o b y M a r t y D o l l WARNINGSpring Thaw Alert!To alldog ownerssuffering fromWinter PooPick-upNeglect:CallScoopy Poo NOW! 612-374-3000 Spring Cleanups, Yard Recovery& Weekly Service Now Available www.scoopypoo.netwww.doggydoopickup.com 4402-1/2 France Ave • Edinaat ScoopyPoo World HeadquartersBehind the Yoga House