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Home My WebLink AboutAboutTown_2009SummerAboutTown 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 SUMMER•2009 PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGEPAID Permit No. 3932 Minneapolis, MN AboutTown Fireworks To Cap Off July 4 See Page 12 For Details ***ECRWSS***POSTAL PATRONCAR-RT-WS 2 • SUMMER 2009 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday August 2009About Town Calendar 1 • SUMMER 2009 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday July 2009About Town Calendar Notable Edina educator and author Rollie Ring will serve as Grand Marshal of the 2009 Edina 4th of July parade. As Grand Marshal, Ring will preside over the ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially starts the 10 a.m. parade near Edina City Hall and will lead the procession along its one-mile route. Ring was a leader in the Edina school system for 34 years, starting as a teacher and coach in 1950. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Edina Schools, the Edina City Council named a street “Ring Road” in his honor in 1981. Ring’s book, Remembering Edina High School 1949-2006, is available from the Edina Education Fund (www.edinaedfund.com). Proceeds from sales of the book are being donated to the Edina Education Fund to benefit Edina students and teachers. For more information, please visit www.edinaparade.org. AboutTown Volume 20, Number 3 Summer 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 Contributing Writers: Joe Sullivan, Marty Doll, Kathleen Sovell, Lauren Wiza and Kaylin Martin Publisher: City of Edina About Town is produced by the City of Edina. To advertise in About Town, call Marty Doll at 952-826-0396 . Copyright 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 Elisabeth Donnan Rollie Ring Named Parade Grand Marshal Table of Contents Calendar Of Events ..........................................................................1 Summer Calendar Highlights .........................................................4 A Word From The Mayor ...............................................................5 Fort Ridgely & New Ulm Rescued; Defeated Sioux Banished From Minnesota ...............................................................6 Fireworks Show Caps Off Fourth Of July With A Bang .........................................................14 It’s Not Only Neighborly...It’s The Law .....................................18 Save A Door, Get A Key Box ........................................................20 Crosstown Camera Club Is ‘Sweet Sixteen’ ...............................24 Upstream Arts Provides Edina Teens With Artistic Advantage ....................................................28 City Says Thank You At Annual Reception ...............................30 City Reaches Out To Residents Through Technology ..............34 City Of Edina To Flush Hydrants In September .......................35 Business Notes ................................................................................36 Players Hit The Ground Running In Senior Softball ................40 Art Center Brings National Spotlight To Art of Tile-Making And Community ....................................42 VEAP Seeks Donations To Provide School Supplies For Children In Need ....................................................44 Building Department Offers Tips To Help Residents Avoid Getting Nailed By Bad Contractors .................................46 Photo Gallery ..................................................................................50 1 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Eden Prairie Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 2 Noon, Mrs. Catherine & Friends, Centennial Lakes Park. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 3 Independence Day observed. Most City offices closed. 4 10 a.m., Parade, “Let Freedom Ring,” Edina City Hall to 50th Street and Halifax Avenue. 6:30-10:30 p.m., Open House, Edina Art Center. 5 7 p.m., Hopkins Westwind Concert Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 6 7 p.m., Calhoun Isles Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 Noon, Will Hale & The Tadpole Parade, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 8 7 p.m., Bloomington Medalist Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Photography for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 9 Noon, Wonderful World of Woody, Centennial Lakes Park. 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “Love Laughs at Andy Hardy,” Centennial Lakes Park. 10 9:30 a.m., Music for Preschoolers, Edina Art Center. 11 10 a.m., Knitting for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 127 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 1310 a.m., Garden Art for ages 7-10, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Jazz on the Prairie, Centennial Lakes Park. 147 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 157 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Rum River Brass, Centennial Lakes Park. 1710 a.m., Fashion Crocheting for ages 7-10, Edina Art Center. 1810 a.m., Drawing for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 197 p.m., St. Louis Park Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Richard Walton Park, Oakdale. 2010 a.m., Clay Animals for ages 7-10, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Minnetonka Civic Orchestra, Centennial Lakes Park. 21Noon, Annette Fragale and her Color Parade, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 22Last day of Student Exhibition at Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Star of the North Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 23Noon, Music that Tickles with Shawn Sweeney, Centennial Lakes Park. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 249 a.m., Outdoor Painting for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 259:30 a.m., Daisies in Watercolor for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 8 a.m., Safety Camp, South Metro Public Safety Training Facility. Noon, Woodland Puppets, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 2827 7 p.m., Swingin’ in the Park swing dance lesson and dance, Centennial Lakes Park. 26 7 p.m., Honeywell Concert Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Excelsior Commons, Excelsior. 29 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Scott Fraser Duo, Centennial Lakes Park. 30 Noon, Okee Dokee Brothers, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Movie in the Park, “Mamma Mia,” Centennial Lakes Park. 31 10 a.m., Nature Watercolor for ages 7-10, Edina Art Center. 16 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 1 9:30 a.m., Watercolor Skies for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 2 7 p.m., Minneapolis Police Concert Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Como Park Pavilion, St. Paul. 3 4:15 p.m., Pottery for ages 10-13, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Minnesota Mandolin Orchestra, Centennial Lakes Park. Noon, Brodini Comedy Magic Show, Centennial Lakes Park. 4:15 p.m., Clay for Kids ages 7-10, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 4 5 9:30 a.m., Pottery for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., The Bavarian Musikmeisters, Centennial Lakes Park. 6 Noon, Rusty’s Rocking Jamboree, Centennial Lakes Park. 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 7 8 9 a.m., Raku for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 98:30 p.m., Lighthouse Night, First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 105:30 p.m., Camera Club with pizza for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Southside Big Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 11Noon, Bob the Beachcomber, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. Pottery for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Planning Commission work session, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Moonlight Serenaders, Centennial Lakes Park. 12 1410 a.m., Landscape Watercolor, Edina Art Center. 15 167 p.m., The Medicine Show Music Company, Centennial Lakes Park. 1710 a.m., Clay Tiles, Edina Art Center. 7 p.m., Wild Honey & the Locusts, Centennial Lakes Park. 18Noon, Alpha Bits Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Jim Shannon “Vintage Piano,” Centennial Lakes Park. 197 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., River City Jazz Orchestra, Centennial Lakes Park. 205:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. 21 2210 a.m., Expressive Art for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. 25Noon, Will Hale & The Tadpole Parade, Centennial Lakes Park. 7 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 247 p.m., Zuhrah Shrine Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 23 7 p.m., Calhoun Brass, Centennial Lakes Park. 307 p.m., Inver Hills Community Band, Centennial Lakes Park. 267 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Amy and Adams, Centennial Lakes Park. 27 Noon, Ms. Catherine & Friends, Centennial Lakes Park. 4 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 28 13 Noon, Dakota Wild Animals “Reptiles & Mammals,” Centennial Lakes Park. 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “The Natural,” Centennial Lakes Park. 29 9 a.m., National Tile Exhibit opens, Edina Art Center. 31 A Word From The Mayor Renovation of an industrial property in southwest Edina for use as a new Public Works Facility will begin later this summer. In May, the City closed on the property at 7450 Metro Blvd. formerly used by ConAgra as a microwave popcorn factory. In April after independent bond-rating agencies Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s Investors Service affirmed their high bond ratings for the City, the sale of $14 million General Obligation capital improvement bonds was approved to help finance the purchase and partial renovation of the property. With the current state of the economy, some have questioned the timing of this project. In many ways, the timing has never been better. The existing Public Works Facility at 5146 Eden Ave. was constructed in the 1960s. It sits on approximately 3.5 acres, and is too small to meet the needs of the Public Works Department and Park Maintenance division. As the community has grown and developed over the last 50 years, so have the operations and fleet of the Public Works Department. Additionally, the City wishes to see better air handling for their employees, segregation of divisions, and more efficient indoor storage for equipment and trucks. For more than a decade, the City has been looking for a suitable site to relocate the Facility. Because Edina is fully developed, sites seven acres or larger with good access to surrounding roadways have been few and far between on the market. Spending public dollars is never an issue that is taken lightly. It is important to continue to reinvest in our community’s infrastructure — which includes our aging public buildings and facilities. Based on other recent projects, we believe the bids we will receive on renovation of the Metro Boulevard property will be very competitive. For example, in May the City Council accepted bids for a street project more than 40 percent lower than the engineer’s project estimate! Renovation of the property will be as “green” as possible. The shell of the ConAgra building will be maintained. The existing 20 or more rooftop units on the building will be replaced with skylights and energy-efficient lighting used in the rest of the facility. Staff is working with architects and planners to determine if solar panels can be used to heat hot water and geo-thermal units used to heat and cool offices and the mechanics area. Infiltration tanks or rain gardens will likely be established on the property. This past spring, the theme of National Public Works Week was “Revitalize, Reinvest, Renew,” emphasizing how public works employees are always working to keep our community up-to-date, safe and new. Revitalize means to find new ways to keep buildings, roads, bridges and other things working. Reinvest means spending money necessary to make them last longer. Renew means fixing parts that have broken and adding new parts, too. By revitalizing, reinvesting and renewing, Public Works makes our communities the best they can be. The timing is right to revitalize, reinvest and renew Edina’s Public Works Facility. I look forward to seeing you at the Public Works Open House next spring! James B. Hovland Mayor 5 • SUMMER 20094 • SUMMER 2009 Summer Calendar Highlights Other Dates To Remember July 2 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “Field of Dreams,” Centennial Lakes Park. July 4 8:45 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band concert followed by fireworks, Rosland Park. July 7 7 p.m., Jim Shannon “Vintage Piano,” Centennial Lakes Park. July 8 7 p.m., Planning Commission work session, Edina City Hall. July 14 9:30 a.m., Handcoloring Photos for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. July 14 Noon, Wiggle, Jiggle & Jam, Centennial Lakes Park. July 14 7 p.m., Sidewalk Café Duo, Centennial Lakes Park. July 16 Noon, Okee Dokee Brothers, Centennial Lakes Park. July 16 6:30 p.m., Pottery for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. July 16 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “Twilight,” Centennial Lakes Park. July 21 7 p.m., Jim Shannon “Vintage Piano,” Centennial Lakes Park. July 23 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “Flying Deuces,” Centennial Lakes Park. July 28 7 p.m., Sidewalk Café Duo, Centennial Lakes Park. July 29 Mosaic Art for ages 8 and up, Edina Art Center. July 30 5 p.m., Reception for Crosstown Camera Club, Edina Art Center. Aug. 4 7 p.m., Jim Shannon “Vintage Piano,” Centennial Lakes Park. Aug. 6 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “Little Princess” with cartoon intro, Centennial Lakes Park. Aug. 11 1 p.m., Oil and Acrylic for ages 15 and up, Edina Art Center. Aug. 11 7 p.m., Sidewalk Café Duo, Centennial Lakes Park. Aug. 20 9 a.m., Registration begins for members’ fall session, Edina Art Center. Aug. 20 Noon, Wonderful World of Woody, Centennial Lakes Park. Aug. 20 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “The Inspector General,” Centennial Lakes Park. Aug. 24 9:30 a.m., Clay class begins for ages 6-8, Edina Art Center. Aug. 25 7 p.m., Sidewalk Café Duo, Centennial Lakes Park. Aug. 27 9 p.m., Movie in the Park, “The Dark Knight,” Centennial Lakes Park. Aug. 31 7 p.m., Salsa in the Park salsa dance lesson and dance, Centennial Lakes Park. Sept. 9 7 p.m., Planning Commission work session, Edina City Hall. Sept. 19 Tile Festival, Swedish Museum. Fall into the Arts Festival What: As summer draws to a close, people will start thinking about fall and winter — holiday gift-giving, back-to-school shopping, entertaining, indoor décor, rustic accessories and glittering jewelry. More than 125 talented artists from around the Midwest will display and sell their work at the seventh-annual Fall into the Arts Festival at Centennial Lakes Park. The arts festival will also feature favorite fall foods and entertainment, children’s activities and artist demonstrations. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Edina Crime Prevention Fund. When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 Where: Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. Info: www.FallintotheArtsFestival.com or at EdinaFallArts@netzero.net. 3 • SUMMER 2009 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday September 2009 About Town Calendar 17 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 2 3 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 4 5 6 7 Labor Day. Most City offices closed. 8 7 p.m., Park Board, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Heritage Preservation Board, Edina City Hall. 9 Entry forms due for Edina Art Center Juried Show. 5-8 p.m, Fall skating lesson registration, Braemar Arena. 10 11 12 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Fall into the Arts Festival, Centennial Lakes Park. 1310 a.m.-5 p.m., Fall into the Arts Festival, Centennial Lakes Park. 14Fall Classes begin, Edina Art Center. 6 p.m., Citizens’ Academy Begins, Edina Police Department. 6:30 p.m., Community Health Committee, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., City Council & HRA, Edina City Hall. 15 167 p.m., Energy & Environment Commission, Edina City Hall. 18 195:30 p.m., Barnyard Boogie, Rosland Park. 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Sheldon Theater, Red Wing. 204-6 p.m., Reception for Tile Exhibit, Edina Art Center. 21 227 p.m., Human Rights & Relations Commission, Edina City Hall. 7 p.m., Town Hall Meeting, Centennial Lakes Park Centrum. 23 244 p.m., Art Center Board, Edina Art Center. 25 26 29 28 27 7 p.m., First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Edinborough Park. 30 7 p.m., Planning Commission, Edina City Hall. 17 5:30 p.m., Zoning Board of Appeals, Edina City Hall. 6 p.m., Transportation Commission, Edina City Hall. By Joe Sullivan Contributing Writer Editor’s Note: This is the conclusion of a two-part story that began in the spring issue of About Town, on the subject of Minnesota’s Indian War of 1862. 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. On Aug. 22, 1862, the Sioux returned to Fort Ridgely with a much larger force Big Eagle later described as a “grand affair.” An estimated 800 warriors, including members of the Sioux, Wahpeton and Sisseton bands, tried to set fire to the roofs of the fort’s buildings with blazing arrows. Because of earlier rains, the effort failed. The main body of Sioux crept up the east ravine, striking first at the northeast corner of the fort. The fort’s cannons, aided by heavy musket fire from supporting troops, drove the Sioux away from the buildings and back into the ravine. After the warriors’ first rush failed, they continued firing from a distance until nightfall when they withdrew. The attackers’ strategy had been to wear down the fort’s outnumbered defenders with constant rifle fire followed by an assault that would defeat them in hand-to- hand combat. After hours of shelling from the fort, the Sioux were preparing for an all-out attack. Just as the Sioux were ready to advance, Sgt. John Jones and his artillerymen double-charged their cannons with canister shot, which sent the warriors fleeing in disorder. The gallant defenders of Fort Ridgely had won a second victory and the artillery under Sgt. Jones deserved a great deal of the credit. While the soldiers and civilian volunteers of Fort Ridgely had “shut the door” on two Indian attacks, it was the residents of New Ulm who effectively halted the Sioux’s second, much heavier assault of their town, just four days after the Sioux warriors’ defeats. In the days following the first attack, tension had mounted among New Ulm’s more than 1,000 women and children, but also among the unarmed men who were with them in the cramped basement of the Erd building, which still stands in downtown New Ulm. Meanwhile, New Ulm’s citizen-defenders had been bolstered by the arrival of 100 volunteers from nearby Mankato, plus militia companies from St. Peter and Fort Ridgely & New Ulm Rescued; Defeated Sioux Banished From Minnesota 6 • SUMMER 2009 Le Sueur led by Col. Charles Flandrau. On Saturday, Aug. 23, Flandrau’s fighters totaled 225, but they were still badly outnumbered by the 650 braves under chiefs Mankato, Wabasha and Big Eagle. Around 9:30 a.m., the American Indians streamed out of the woods onto the prairie west of New Ulm. With their superior numbers, the Indians were able to surround the entire town. About 3 p.m., Flandrau rallied his men to face an opening charge of some 60 warriors “on ponies and afoot.” His civilian volunteers and militiamen launched a countercharge. The Sioux were turned back again. Flandrau said later their charge was the turning point of the battle. The Indians reappeared briefly the following morning, but only fired a few harmless long-range shots, attempted to drive off some cattle and then withdrew. That same day, Flandrau ordered the burning of 40 or so buildings still standing outside the barriers. In all, 190 New Ulm structures were destroyed. Except for the post office, those remaining were all inside the barricades. New Ulm Evacuated Not only was there a critical shortage of ammunition and food in New Ulm, but disease threatened the non- combatants, who had been huddled for five days “in cellars … like sheep in a cattle car,” as Flandrau described their plight. He soon determined that New Ulm had to be evacuated. On the morning of Aug. 25, 153 wagons loaded with women, children, sick and wounded, plus a large number on foot, began an exodus from New Ulm. They were headed for Mankato, 30 miles to the east. Later, Flandrau recalled, “It was a melancholy spectacle to see 2,000 people … reduced to utter beggary, starting on a journey 7 • SUMMER 2009 The most important element in the defense of Fort Ridgely may well have been its artillery, under the direction of Sgt. John Jones. He set up three gun detachments consisting of a six-pound cannon and two 12-pound howitzers that kept the Sioux from overwhelming the small garrison. Ph o t o g r a p h e r a n o n y m o u s , 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 (continued on next page) Frightened Families Left Home And Hid From Indian Attacks In 1851, Henry Hughes, great-grandfather of Edina’s City Manager Gordon Hughes, had immigrated to America from his native Wales with his stepmother. They settled in the coal-mining town of Minesville, Ohio. There, Henry met and married his wife, Eliza, and they had their first child. In 1855, Henry struck out with his little family to begin a new life on the Minnesota River, near the southwestern Minnesota towns of Cambria and Judson where they claimed 160 acres of land and built a log house in the woods. In his autobiography, the elder Hughes wrote that Sioux warriors had begun attacking white settlers in southwest Minnesota and burning their homes. The Hughes family stayed in their log house until fear of an Indian attack forced them to flee in August 1862. Weeks later, thinking it was safe, they returned home. The following day, on Sept. 10, Indians descended on their settlement, killing five of their neighbors and wounding others. Henry and his family fled again, this time into the nearby brush to hide until soldiers could escort them to safety in Judson. They never returned to their house in the woods. 8 • SUMMER 2009 9 • SUMMER 2009 … through hostile country.” Although expecting a Sioux assault at any moment, the New Ulm refugees made it to Mankato without incident. Col. Henry Sibley Appointed To End Sioux Uprising On Aug. 19, 1862, Gov. Alexander Ramsey had commissioned Henry H. Sibley as a Colonel and assigned him to head an expedition to put down the Uprising for good. Sibley, who had served as Minnesota’s first governor, was also a well-known fur trader. After trading with the Sioux for 28 years as an American Fur Co. representative, Sibley knew the Sioux –– their territory, language and customs. Sibley and Northrup advanced toward Fort Ridgely with an army of 1,400 soldiers and, to the great joy of its defenders and refugees, lifted the siege of the fort on Aug. 27. Skirmishes Continued At Other Locations A number of other skirmishes took place in places such as Birch Coulee and Wood Lake, upriver from the Lower Agency, and further north at Acton, Hutchinson and Forest City. At both of the latter locations, the Indian attacks were foiled by settlers securely positioned inside stockades. A protracted siege of Fort Abercrombie, another regular U.S. Army post on the Red River, north of the Minnesota River’s headwaters, was finally ended in late September. Sioux Surrender Begins, White Captives Released A new phase of the Indian war began with an organized military effort to get the Sioux to surrender and secure the release of their white captives. A five-man military commission, appointed to bring the Sioux who had participated in the outbreak to trial, first convened at Camp Release, located across the Minnesota River from the present-day town of Montevideo. Tribal chiefs –– including Wabasha, Red Iron and Taopi, along with the influential mixed-blood Gabriel Renville –– were in charge of the camp. Besides the captives, some 150 lodges of the Indian camp were occupied by “friendly” members of the Mdewakanton tribe under Wabasha and Taopi and other Lower Sioux, Wahpeton and Sisseton Indians, most of whom were rapidly tiring of the conflict and ready to take their chances on surrender. A courier was sent to Sibley’s encampment at nearby Lone Tree Lake to let him know that the captives were safe and that he and his soldiers should come to Camp Release for the surrender. The troops left on Sept. 25 and marched approximately 10 miles to the camp, where the soldiers held a dress parade intended to impress any undecided Indians of the need for surrender. The surrendering Indians released 107 whites and 162 mixed-bloods –– a total of 269 captives in all. Most of the rescued whites were women and children. The former captives were taken to Camp Release. Describing the liberation, eyewitness J.V. Heard wrote: “The poor creatures wept for joy at their escape. They had watched for our coming for many a weary day … .” Edina Men Fought in 1862 Sioux Uprising Many West Richfield (later Edina) residents fought in the 1862 Sioux Uprising including: James Hawkes: Farmer and member of the military unit that defended Fort Ridgely against the early attacks in 1862. William Duggan, Sr.: Farmer and son of John Duggan, Sr., joined Capt. Anson Northrup’s unit of 175 volunteers from Minneapolis to assist in the breakthrough that saved Fort Ridgely. Patrick Fogarty: Fogarty, who had come to Richfield from Ireland with his parents in 1857, fought with General Sibley’s expedition to Fort Ridgely. E.F. Irwin: Irwin also joined Capt. Northrup’s company in the battle for the relief of Fort Ridgely. Merriam McCabe: Son of John and Harriet McCabe, Merriam was also with Capt. Northrup in the fight to save Fort Ridgely. Source: History of Hennepin County, By Edward D. Neill This painting depicts soldiers at the Birch Coulee Encounter firing a volley at Sioux warriors emerging from a ravine in the background. Note the bodies of dead soldiers on the ground behind the army’s firing line. Pa i n t i n g b y A n t o n G a g , C h r i s t i a n H e l l e r a n d Al e x a n d e r S c h w e n d i n g e r , 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 (continued on next page) A group of refugees such as this from the Sioux Uprising was typical as many others were fleeing from besieged towns in southwestern Minnesota. Largely made up of women and children, they were pictured resting and eating during their journey. Ph o t o b y A d r i a n J . E b e l l , 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 10 • SUMMER 2009 11 • SUMMER 2009 After the Army took over Camp Release, about 1,200 Indians surrendered and were taken into custody. Their number continued to increase daily as the Sioux, many of them facing starvation, continued to surrender under flags of truce. The number of surrendered Sioux in custody eventually reached nearly 2,000. 392 Sioux Tried For War Crimes The five-man military commission, appointed to try the Sioux who had participated in the outbreak, convened for the first time on Sept. 28, 1862. Several weeks later, Sibley moved his army and its Sioux prisoners to the Lower Agency, where the trials resumed on Oct. 25. Upon completion of its work on Nov. 5, the commission had tried 392 prisoners, 307 of whom were sentenced to death and 16 more to prison terms. In his book about the Uprising, Carley wrote: “Reading the records today leaves the impression that the trials were a travesty of justice … Those in charge had to resist public pressure to do away with all the Indians on trial. … It must also be pointed out that the trials were conducted by a military commission and not a court of law. Many of the proceedings were too hasty and … a number of prisoners were condemned on flimsy evidence.” In mid-October, the question of who had the authority to order the Sioux executions had been passed to President Abraham Lincoln for his consideration. The list of condemned prisoners had been reduced to 303 Indians and mixed-bloods, whose names and court records were telegraphed to Lincoln in Washington, DC. As the President’s representatives reviewed the trial records, Sibley transferred to Fort Snelling some 1,700 Sioux women, children and men who had surrendered, but were not convicted. The procession from the Lower Sioux Agency to Fort Snelling was four miles long as it set out on Nov. 7. Reaching the fort on Nov. 13, the captives were placed in a gloomy, fenced camp of tepees along the west bank of the Minnesota River below Fort Snelling, where they spent a difficult winter awaiting the government’s decision regarding their future. On Dec. 6, Lincoln disappointed most Minnesotans by approving death sentences for 39 of the 303 convicts. The names of those to be hanged for rape and murder were handwritten on three pages of official Executive Mansion stationery and signed by President Lincoln. The date of their execution, originally set for Dec. 19, 1862, was later postponed a week to Dec. 26, to allow more time for the arrangements. The 39 condemned Sioux were then separated from the rest of the prisoners and put in chains. Later, Sibley also moved the 264 Indians, who had not received death sentences, to Camp Lincoln at South Bend on the river near Mankato. Angry citizens attempted violent attacks against the captives in several places along the route and at Camp Lincoln after the convicted Indians arrived. Gallows Erected In Mankato’s Public Square Wooden gallows were built in Mankato’s public square. Tatemima (or Round Wind), one of the 39 Sioux braves on the President’s list of the condemned, was reprieved at the last minute because he had been convicted on the testimony of two young boys. At 10 a.m. on Dec. 26, the 38 remaining convicts walked from the prison to the scaffold. A large crowd of onlookers filled the streets. Hundreds more watched from rooftops and windows of buildings to get a glimpse of the scene. The Sioux’s death chant began as the prisoners mounted the gallows, which had been designed to execute all 38 of the convicts simultaneously. White caps were drawn over their faces and, after a third drum roll, a single rope was cut. An eyewitness described the event as “America’s greatest mass execution. As the platform fell, there was one, … prolonged cheer from the soldiers and citizens, then all were quiet and earnest,” he concluded. The dead were buried in a single, shallow grave near the Minnesota River. Banishment From Minnesota Most Minnesotans were so enraged over the Indian war that even the mass hanging of 38 Sioux didn’t mollify them. Incited by a resentful press corps, white Minnesotans were not disposed to make any distinction between hostile and friendly Indians. The prevailing public sentiment was demanding that guilty Indians who had escaped punishment be pursued and punished and that all captured Sioux be banished from the state –– including the estimated 1,700 “peaceful” Indians, mostly women and children, confined near Fort Snelling. Many politicians echoed the public’s demands for Indian removal. In Sept. 1862, Gov. Ramsey declared: “The Sioux Indians of Minnesota must be exterminated or driven forever beyond the borders of the state.” There were calls for canceling all Indian treaties and using the remaining annuity money to reimburse white victims of the Uprising. But citizens were more concerned about Indian relocation. The U.S. Congress passed legislation covering removal Ph o t o b y W . H . C h i l d s , 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 The simultaneous execution of 38 Sioux warriors at Mankato on Dec. 26, 1862, was witnessed by 1,400 soldiers and a huge crowd of civilian onlookers. Martial law was declared in Mankato to prevent violence. The log house of Francois La Bathe, at the Lower Sioux Agency, was the rude “courtroom” where many of the Sioux trials were held. Soldiers are shown guarding Indian prisoners awaiting trial. Ill u s t r a t i o n b y 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 (continued on next page) of both the Sioux and Winnebago tribes. The legislation, which became law in early 1863, called for the tribes to be relocated on unoccupied land, beyond the limits of any state. The Sioux and Winnebago tribes were relocated in the Dakota Territory. The remaining 294 convicted prisoners were transferred by riverboat from Mankato to an army prison at Fort McClellan near Davenport, Iowa, where they were confined for three years. Forty were pardoned early and 120 died before their release dates. The 1,700 women, children and mostly old men were moved to a camp on Pike Island near Fort Snelling. Hundreds died of disease and hunger during the bitter winter. The following spring, Congress abolished its previous treaties with the Sioux and ordered the 1,600 refugees expelled from Minnesota. Photos and background material for this article came from the Minnesota Historical Society library, the Edina Historical Society archives and the following publications: The Dakota War of 1862, by Kenneth Carley; The Dakota War –– 1862- 1865, by Michael Clodfelter; History of Hennepin County, by Edward D. Neill; The Henry Hughes Story, by Henry Hughes; Richfield: Minnesota’s First Suburb, by Frederick I. Johnson; and the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. 12 • SUMMER 2009 13 • SUMMER 2009 Bradley L. Pearson, D.D.S., M.S. Board Certified Specialist in Orthondontics 7450 France Avenue SouthSuite 270 Edina, MN 55435 Phone: 952.926.2551 www.pearsonorthodontics.com Celebrating 50 years of making Edina smile!This map indicates where various splinters of the Sioux nation were settled or imprisoned following the 1862 Uprising. In addition to Minnesota, Indians were relocated in Dakota Territory, Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri. 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 14 • SUMMER 2009 15 • SUMMER 2009 By Marty Doll As you’re watching Edina’s Fourth of July fireworks, keep in mind that you’re not the first to see the annual show. That’s because Erv Haman of RES Specialty Pyrotechnics, Inc. has already seen it –– in his head. The self-proclaimed “man of 15 hats” wears one of them to choreograph Edina’s show each year, and he does it by first forming a mental vision of the finished product. “To me, fireworks are more than just entertainment –– they’re art,” says Haman. “My trademark is to make art in the sky.” Haman has been infatuated with fireworks since a very young age. As a child, he spent his summers riding calves in the local rodeo and using his prize money to buy fireworks. “The smell of fireworks smoke just gets into your blood,” he says. What started as a hobby more than 30 years ago has now turned into a full-time gig for the fireworks enthusiast. At RES, based in Belle Plaine, Minn., Haman works as the Director of Business Development –– a moniker he says is just a fancy title for “salesman.” He works directly with customers to provide indoor and outdoor pyrotechnic shows all over the world. He is also one of the lead “builders” of their fireworks shows and has built Edina’s show since RES began shooting it 15 years ago. “RES has consistently been our vendor of choice because they provide the largest number of shells, have proven their attention to safety and continually add new and unique special effects into their display,” said Edina Park & Recreation Director John Keprios, who facilitates the committee that chooses the fireworks vendor each year. “They pride themselves on having a more powerful and exciting show and finale than their competition. To some extent, there is something to be said for ‘if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.’” According to Haman, building an individual show comes down to budget and length of time. “In America, we get bored easily,” he says. “We don’t want a show to be longer than 22 to 24 minutes, but –– you can do a $15,000 show in 15 minutes or a $30,000 show in 15 minutes.” Once Haman knows the budget and time frame he is working within for a particular show, the next consideration is the size of the site. The larger the site and the farther away people can be from where the fireworks are launched –– the larger the shells he is able to use. “Edina has 560 feet between the show and the crowd, meaning we can use an 8-inch shell,” said Haman of the Rosland Park site. “Not a lot of places can go that large.” To prepare Edina’s show each year, Haman starts with the RES shell inventory. Because of his years of expertise and familiarity with Edina’s site, he knows exactly what every shell will look like in the sky. He says one of the keys to a successful show is to make sure that it is unlike any other show that has been done in the past. “We have a variety of signature pattern shells that you won’t see in any other show,” said Haman of RES’s unique double- and triple-ring patterns and fireworks specifically shaped like double palm trees, smiley faces or red falling leaves. “They really stand out. No two shows are ever the same.” Once the show is scripted and the shells are pulled, they are all numbered so they can be strategically placed on site. They are also electronically “matched” so that the computer used to fire them knows which shells to fire on certain commands. Fireworks Show Caps Off Fourth Of July With A Bang It takes nearly 14 hours to load, fire and clean up the Edina Fireworks show. Fireworks can be dangerous, even for the professionals, as can be seen by this failed firework that exploded during a previous Edina fireworks show. (continued on next page) 16 • SUMMER 2009 17 • SUMMER 2009 According to Haman, the difference between a good show and an awesome show has a lot to do with the quality of the shells and how long they last in the sky. “I compare fireworks to diamonds,” says Haman. “All diamonds sparkle, just like all fireworks do something in the sky.” Haman says that just like a diamond, a high-quality small shell will “sparkle” more than a low-quality big one. And he always saves his best for last. “People will forget to breathe during this year’s finale,” smirked Haman. After the Edina show is assembled and packed, it is passed on to Dan Rutledge to be taken to Rosland Park. “Dan the shooter,” who has helped with the Edina show for the past eight years, is responsible for logistics — the layout of the show and assembly of the guns used to fire the fireworks. For him, the Edina show has become a family affair. “My brothers, mom and dad and some cousins all help,” says Rutledge. “I bring my wife and daughter and we set up the family RV. We can turn the AC on and it gives us a little relief on the hot asphalt road.” Rutledge says it takes about 14 hours to load, fire and clean up the show, with only a short break in the evening leading up to show time. “You’ve really got to like it; it’s a tremendous amount of work,” says Rutledge, who must maneuver 7,000 to 8,000 pounds of material up to three times over the course of the day. In many shows, once the display is set, it is programmed into a computer. With only one push of what those in the business refer to as the “dead-man’s switch,” the computer starts and controls the entire program. However, in the years that Rutledge has shot the Edina show, he says he has only shot solely by computer once, as he prefers to have more manual control. “The computer can sometimes ‘step’ on a shell ahead of it,” says Rutledge. “We want people to appreciate the big ones. As a shooter, I like having some manual control over the timing. It gives me some artistic freedom.” While almost all fireworks shows are now controlled, at least in part, by computers, Edina Fire Marshal Tom Jenson says that it wasn’t too long ago that these big shows were “hand-fired.” “The professionals are all licensed and have taken countless safety courses and training,” says Jenson. “If something goes wrong, they are prepared and always have safety in the forefront.” Jenson notes that three years ago, one of the large shells failed during the Edina show and exploded in its firing tube. Because of safety mechanisms, the tube shredded instead of throwing shrapnel. No one was hurt, and the show continued as if nothing happened. “These guys put on a great show, but they know what they are doing,” says Jenson. “Fireworks are small bombs. They should always be left to the professionals.” For more information on the Edina Fourth of July festivities, visit www.CityofEdina.com, www.edinaparade.org or call the Edina Park & Recreation Department at 952-826-0367. For more information on fireworks safety, visit www.CityofEdina.com/Fire or call the Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 952-826-0378. Edina’s Fourth of July Edina’s Fourth of July fireworks display will begin around 10 p.m. on July 4, after an 8:45 p.m. concert of the First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band. Funding for the show is donated by Fairview Southdale Hospital. Before the concert and fireworks, visit the Edina Art Center, 4701 W. 64th St. The Art Center will host an open house from 6 to 10 p.m. The 13th-annual Edina Fourth of July Parade, presented by Lunds/Byerly’s, takes place earlier in the day at 10 a.m. along Eden Avenue and 50th Street, ending in downtown Edina at Halifax Avenue. Our physician partners include Minnesota Heart Clinic, Twin Cities Heart & Lung and Suburban Radiologic Consultants. Minnesota Heart Clinic cardiologists are a part of University of Minnesota Physicians. My family means everything to me. So when I experienced severe chest pain it didn’t take me long to prioritize what was important. I went to Fairview Southdale Hospital for my heart care. Thanks to their nationally-recognized heart treatment, my doctors quickly unblocked my arteries, allowing blood to flow. Their work re-opened another chapter of my life. Tomorrow I’ll have dinner with my family and read a story to my grandson Porter, all because my Fairview fixed my heart. Look for Minnesota’s #1 heart hospital at the Edina 4th of July parade and fireworks. Learn more at southdale.fairview.org Fairview Southdale Hospital #1 in Minnesota for cardiology by HealthGrades two years in a row Robb, Family man Treated for heart disease Garage Sales Garage or yard sales are a great way to clean out your house, meet your neighbors and make some extra money. If you plan to have a sale at your home this year, please be aware of the following rules. • You may conduct only one sale per year at your home, lasting no more than 72 consecutive hours. • Items offered for sale must be owned by the owner of the premises or by friends of the owner. • Items offered for sale must not have been bought for resale or received on consignment for the purpose of resale. • Signs may be erected on the premises where the sale is taking place. No off-site signs are allowed. • No signs may be posted on the road right-of-way (the City-owned property 15 feet in from residential curbs) or on telephone poles. For more information, contact Associate Planner Joyce Repya, 952-826-0462. Tall Grass and Weeds Think you don’t have enough time for yard work? You might want to reconsider. The City has standards for grass and weed management. Did you know that weeds and grasses should not be taller than eight inches? This includes boulevards, alleys, landscaped areas and developed and undeveloped land. Grass and weeds in drainage ponds, wetlands and similar waterways are exempt. For more information, contact the City’s Weed Inspector, 952-826-0353. Dumping In Parks The City of Edina has 1,532 acres of parkland, of which approximately 800 are wooded or un-mowed natural areas. Within the wooded areas are growing some of Edina’s greatest and oldest trees. Trees thrive under natural conditions greatly favoring their health and longevity. Unfortunately, some residents are wrecking those natural conditions. According to the City Code, “no person, in any park, street, sidewalk or publicly owned property shall … deposit, place or leave any paper, rubbish, waste, cans, bottles or refuse of any kind except in receptacles provided for the collection of waste.” The Code provides for the protection and preservation of these areas by making it unlawful to cut, remove or plant any material without a City permit, and unlawful to dispose of any trash –– including organic material such as leaves, grass clippings, branches and logs. Depositing such organic material within these areas, besides being unsightly, can cause ill health and even mortality to the existing trees and other vegetation. Too much of this material on the ground can smother the roots, causing oxygen deprivation which adversely affects the health of plants. Roots of all plants require It’s Not Only Neighborly … It’s The Law 18 • SUMMER 2009 soil oxygen to function properly. This soil oxygen is depleted dramatically whenever the ground becomes unnaturally overloaded. Residents must contract with a refuse hauler for the disposal of yard waste. Yard waste should be set out by the curb no more than 12 hours prior to the day of collection. Unless a statement has been issued after a significant weather event, the City will not pick up tree waste from private property. For more information, contact Park Maintenance Superintendent Vince Cockriel, 952-826-0305, or Recycling & Solid Waste Coordinator Solvei Wilmot, 952-826-0463. 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 4532 Parkside Lane could water their lawn on even-numbered dates –– July 2, 4, 6 and so on. To conserve water, watering is banned from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. If the weather becomes exceptionally dry for an extended period of time, additional water restrictions might be put into place. However, because residents have faithfully observed the odd-even sprinkling policy, the City has had very few water emergencies in the past. For more information, contact Utilities Superintendent Roger Glanzer, 952-826-0311. 19 • SUMMER 2009 20 • SUMMER 2009 Save A Door, Get A Key Box By Marty Doll It’s the middle of the night, and the Edina Fire Department receives a 9-1-1 call from an elderly resident who has fallen in his home. He can’t get up and is afraid he may have broken some bones. Although he has been able to claw and crawl along the floor to reach his phone, he is unable to struggle any further. Paramedics immediately respond to the scene and are able to see him through the front window. He is conscious and in obvious pain, but is unable to get to the door. What now? Usually, firefighter/paramedics have one of two options –– break down a door or window or wait until someone else with a key is able to get to the scene. But what if the man is having other medical problems? How long can they wait? Most often, responders will err on the side of caution, tearing down a door to reach the victim inside. The scenario above is more than hypothetical. Edina Fire Chief Marty Scheerer says that firefighter/paramedics are put into a similar situation a couple of times each year. In addition to the expense of replacing a door or window, which falls on the homeowner, the force and exertion required to break down a door can be dangerous for responders and often result in injury. According to Fire Marshal Tom Jenson, there is a better, safer way. “Our population [in Edina] is aging, and many are choosing to stay in their homes longer,” said Jenson. “One option they have available is to have a key box installed outside of their home.” For more than 30 years, Edina Fire Code has required businesses and multi-unit housing complexes to utilize a key box system. For nearly that long, the Department –– along with more than 10,000 other fire departments across the country –– has used a technology called a Knox-Box. A powder-coated, heavy steel Knox-Box is installed outside of each commercial building in the community. The secure box contains the keys that grant access to that particular building. A set of master keys, possessed only by the Fire Department, can open all Knox-Boxes in Edina, allowing emergency personnel quick access into a building in the case of an after-hours medical or fire emergency. “Edina business and apartment building owners have saved themselves a lot of headache and expense by installing a Knox-Box,” says Jenson. Recently, the key box technology has become more accessible to Edina residents. Joe Shanley of the Knox Corporation says it helps take much of the guesswork and risk of injury out of accessing a home during an emergency. “A firefighter/paramedic might be able to see the victim inside the home,” he said. “Then they have to make the decision, ‘Do I break down the door?’ The last thing a paramedic wants to do is scare an 85-year-old man or woman by breaking glass.” For under $200 –– less than half the cost of replacing a door or window –– a resident can purchase a Knox key box for his or her home. Once installed, the box should be registered with the Fire Department and added to its list of Knox-Box facilities, eliminating any need for forced entry in the event of a future emergency. “I got one for my parents [in Chicago],” says Shanley. “They have trouble walking, and if they ever need to call 9-1-1 and are unable to let the paramedics in, [the first responders] can open the box and get the key.” Jenson says that a Knox-Box is also a good idea –– and requirement –– for any home that has a fire sprinkler system because the Fire Department needs access to shut it off if no one is home. “It’s a real comfort to me,” says Karin VanDyke, an Edina resident who recently had a Knox-Box installed in her home. “If I’m out of town, I know the Fire Department can get in during an emergency without having to evaluate whether or not to break down the door. Firefighter’s lives are valuable, and this is much safer for them, too.” According to Shanley, the boxes themselves are tamper- proof –– designed for Fire Departments with security in mind. Also, a Knox-Box –– whether residential or commercial –– can only be opened by the jurisdiction it is in, meaning the Edina Fire Department, and only the Fire Department, can open a Knox-Box in Edina. “We have a strict directive when we are allowed to open it, and it can only be done in an emergency situation,” says Jenson. “We verify, track and audit all of our keys to make sure they are always where they should be.” 21 • SUMMER 2009 (continued on next page) A Knox-Box allows Edina’s firefighter/paramedics to enter a building quickly during an emergency without the need to break down a door or window. 23 • SUMMER 200922 • SUMMER 2009 “Homeowners don’t have to worry about security,” said VanDyke. While all metro-area cities require key boxes for their commercial buildings, approximately half of them use the Knox-Box. The other half use a similar key box produced by the Maple Grove, Minn.-based DAMA Co. Since the Knox-Box was the first key box of its kind, Edina’s Fire Department chose to go with them nearly 30 years ago. Today, if acquiring a key box in Edina, a Knox-Box is required per the Department’s directive. Members of the Fire Department hope that more residents will consider installing a Knox-Box, allowing them quick access to a home during an emergency without damaging doors and windows. Says Jenson, “It’s safer for everybody, all around.” For more information on obtaining a residential Knox- Box, contact the Edina Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 952-826-0378, visit www.CityofEdina.com/Fire or www.knoxbox.com. Byprovidingcustomizedinvestmentstrategies,wecanworkcloselywithinvestorstohelpthemmanagetheir wealth.OurFinancialAdvisorstakethetimetounderstandeachinvestor’sneedsandgoals,andseektodeliver solutionsthataddresstheirspecificneeds. Dependingoninvestors’needs,wecanalsoofferaccesstoglobalresources,whichincludelendingsolutions, alternativeinvestmentsandinsightfulresearch.That’swhatwemeanby“You&Us.” Formoreinformation,call:952-848-8040877-850-6022 4999FranceAvenueSouth,Suite200,Edina,MN55410 ©2008UBSFinancialServicesInc.Allrightsreserved.MemberSIPC. 7.5"x7.5”7.06_7R0722_Edina rev4 Image AboutTownMagazine kier/robin/hs quarterly suz bw 7R_Edina_13729123 You&Us Continuingourcommitment toEdinainvestors. PeterLevy BranchManager SeniorVicePresident–Investments PaulBordonaro SeniorVicePresident–Investments NickCronin SeniorVicePresident–Investments KeithFahnhorst SeniorVicePresident–Investments TiffanyFahnhorst FinancialAdvisor PeteGabler FinancialAdvisor BlaneHammer SeniorVicePresident–Investments BobHannah FinancialAdvisor JimHay FinancialAdvisor DaveHoran SeniorVicePresident–Investments RyanJohnson FinancialAdvisor MikeKoob VicePresident–Investments ScottSchachtman AssistantVicePresident–Investments West 50th & Vernon Avenue at Hwy. 100 952-920-3996 www.washburn-mcreavy.com Family Owned & Operated Since 1857 Edina ChapEl FunEral & CrEmation SErviCES 24 • SUMMER 2009 Crosstown Camera Club Is ‘Sweet Sixteen’ 25 • SUMMER 2009 By Kathleen Sovell Contributing Writer The Crosstown Camera Club will celebrate its 16th anniversary this summer with an exhibition at the Edina Art Center’s Foss Gallery. An artist’s reception will be held 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 30, during the show’s opening. The public is invited to the reception. Many of the works will be available for sale. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to meet the artists, view and talk to them about their work and ask questions about their workshops and exhibits. “If you are interested in photography and searching for a group with which to share and develop that interest, come and see this exhibit,” said Diana Hedges, Director of the Edina Art Center. “Attend the next Crosstown Camera Club meeting to see if this camera club is right for you.” The Crosstown Camera Club was established in 1993 by Art Dickey, one of the top 10 amateur photographers in the world, and Hedges. The club offers members a chance to learn new photographic techniques, socialize with other photographers, enter digital and print competitions, hear from leaders in the industry, share photographs and participate in photo shoots, among other things. The club, which started with about a dozen members, now boasts a membership of more than 40. Thanks to a grant from the Rotary Club of Edina, the Crosstown Camera Club was able to build a darkroom with four enlargers in its early years. As digital photography became more popular, the darkrooms saw a dramatic decrease in use. Recently they have experienced a renaissance. As one of only a few community facilities in the Twin Cities area that rents darkroom space, some photographers are using it to go back to the darkroom to print their images on fiber-based paper. The 16th anniversary exhibition continues at the Art Center through Aug. 22. Meetings are held in the Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina at 6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month, September through May. For more information on the club, visit www.crosstowncameraclub.com. For more information on the exhibit, call the Edina Art Center at 952-903-5780 or visit www.EdinaArtCenter.com. The Edina Art Center is located at 4701 W. 64th St., one mile west of Southdale Center on the northwest corner of Rosland Park. Mark Karney’s “Morning Runner” is one of many photos to be on display during the Crosstown Camera Club’s exhibition at the Edina Art Center. Jeff Kuchera’s “Golden Gate Bridge” will be on display during a summer exhibit at the Edina Art Center. 09-AAE-011 AbtTownAD-Summer OL 4/21/09 12:35 PM Page 1 26 • SUMMER 2009 27 • SUMMER 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 28 • SUMMER 2009 29 • SUMMER 2009 By Lauren Wiza A cello is a four-stringed instrument of the violin family, pitched lower than the viola. It’s one of just a handful of instruments said to sound most like a human voice. The instrument gives a musical and expressive voice to Edina High School student Ben Boatman, a talented cellist. “I play cello for orchestra,” said Ben. “I’ve been playing since I was 4.” Through the cello, Boatman not only develops an extra-curricular talent, but social skills. “I enjoy high school orchestra because the music is fun, and I know many people in my class,” said Ben, a witty student who relies on his humor to make new friends and entertain the girls at the high school that he thinks is so much “more fun than middle school.” Outside of school, Ben says he “texts a lot at home because that’s what teens like to do.” Of his favorite things, Ben lists being social, enjoying people, having fun, giving high fives and pounding fists. This bright, kind and talented young man does it all with a disability called Williams Syndrome. According to Ben’s father, Tim, “People with Williams Syndrome are amazing for their excellent musical skills even though they have cognitive delays.” Ben was able to tap into all that he loves at an Upstream Arts Social Skills camp last August. Upstream Arts was founded by Matt and Julie Guidry after they discovered that their non-verbal son Caleb related to Matt’s performances as an actor. The Guidrys began their non-profit organization with a mission “to enhance the lives of adults and youth with disabilities by fostering creative communication and social independence through the power of arts education.” The Upstream Arts program provides a unique and tailored learning experience to meet the needs of the specific group that they are working with, which can range from individuals with mild to severe physical and cognitive disabilities. “I’ve worked with people with disabilities for over 15 years,” said Julie Guidry, Executive Director. “It’s a passion of mine.” Guidry explained that Upstream Arts “tries to align the work that [they] do as an extension of what students are already learning in their schools.” Upstream Arts incorporates all types of art — acting, writing, dancing, painting, listening, imagining and more. Edina Adaptive Recreation Supervisor Kristin Aarsvold could not agree more with the mission and work of Upstream Arts. “Their understanding of people with disabilities is phenomenal. They take kids where they’re at. Everyone feels successful at the end,” she said. Aarsvold is excited about being able to offer events and camps in Edina for teens with disabilities through a partnership with Upstream Arts. “It’s a new area of programming that Edina Adaptive Recreation could not have without partnering with Upstream Arts,” said Aarsvold of the relationship that is in its second year. “In our world, we don’t see the different skill sets that people bring.” Ben has his own voice, and it is made louder with the art of his cello. He and others who participate in Upstream Arts programs have the world at their feet, hands, eyes, ears, mind, body and soul. With a creative way to receive direction, in their opinion, they’ve got it all. For more information on Edina Adaptive Recreation programs, call 952-826-0433 or visit www.CityofEdina.com/Parks. For more information on Upstream Arts, visit www.upstreamarts.org. Upstream Arts Provides Edina Teens With Artistic Advantage The Hottest Brand Name Sunglasses. 952-927-4090 4504 Valley View Rd. * Edina, MN 55424www.ej-sunglasses.com Ben Boatman Ph o n e b y L a u r e n W i z a 30 • SUMMER 2009 31 • SUMMER 2009 One of the City of Edina’s top awards for community service was recently presented to Jack Rice, who was instrumental in negotiating the purchase of the ConAgra property at 7450 Metro Blvd. for use as a Public Works Facility. Mayor Jim Hovland presented Rice with the Mayor’s Individual Service Commendation at Edina’s Volunteer Recognition Reception April 22 at Edinborough Park. The award is given to an individual for his or her outstanding and exceptional volunteer service to the community at large. Rice, who has been a community volunteer since the 1970s when he joined the Park Board, was of great assistance with the complicated property acquisition during unsettled times. The City closed on the property in early May. “Even though Jack would have been entitled to charge a fee for this work, he served the City once again without his personal interests in mind and has been instrumental in securing a wonderful piece of property that will serve us for many years,” said Hovland at the recognition event. “When the Council asked that he submit a bill, Jack said, ‘The City has been very good to me and my family over the years, and this is a very small way that I can return the favor.’” Rice served on the City Council from 1988 to 1994 and is a founding member of the Edina Housing Foundation. He is currently the chairman of the Edina Housing Foundation. Hovland presented five other prestigious awards at the reception. Mayor’s Service Club Commendation –– Edina Community Foundation Awarded to a club or organization that has made outstanding contributions to the community through its regular activities or through special projects. The Edina Community Foundation was created to advance the community as a premier place for living, learning, raising families and nurturing leadership through the development of a strong program of philanthropy. “Strengthening Our Community” is the Foundation’s philanthropic motto, and the focus is on collaboration and empowerment in four key areas of community life. The first area is “Beautifying Edina,” and examples are the Centennial Lakes “Pinecone” sculpture, the City Hall Art Glass and “Raven” sculpture, and evergreen planters and holiday lighting at 50th & France. The second area is “Bringing People Together,” with examples being the 4th of July Parade, Edina Dialogue, Edina Reads and the Holiday Home Tour. The third area is “Enhancing Our Safety,” and examples of Foundation beneficiaries are the Police Canine Patrol, Emergency Response Equipment and GPS Tracking Devices. The final area is “Helping Our Neighbors,” with examples being the Van Valkenburg Children’s Fund, the Edina Senior Expo and Park & Recreation Grants-In-Aid. During the 2007-2008 fiscal year, the Foundation received more than $415,000 in community support. Mayor’s Outstanding Senior Commendation –– Betty Pollitt Awarded to a senior citizen for outstanding volunteer service within the community. Betty Pollitt has been an election judge chairman for 24 years. She is known for running a tight ship and is tireless throughout all the activities surrounding the elections. Besides her work as an election judge, she has been an active member of the Edina Woman’s Club since 1973 and has served as a Minnesota State Fair judge in the Creative Arts Building for 25 years. Mayor’s Connecting With Kids Commendation –– Karen Hoops Awarded to an individual or organization making a positive impact in the lives of Edina youth. Karen Hoops currently serves as the Committee Chairwoman/Assistant Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop No. 123. From 1999 until 2006, Hoops held the following positions with Cub Scout Pack No. 123: Tiger Cub Den Leader, Cubmaster, Pack Committee Member and Webelos Den Leader. She has been in her current role for the past three years. She is also very active in her church and currently serves as a volunteer in South View Middle School’s office and Media Center. She is also a volunteer in the High School Media Center and trained as a sub for the Career Center. In the past, she has also been involved with the Highlands Connection Committee and Next Step Action Group. Mayor’s Youth Commendation –– Dolan Lee, Hailey Lee and Shara Mohtadi Awarded to a young person who has demonstrated a commitment to improving the quality of life in the community. Dolan Lee is a junior at Edina High School and member of the City’s Community Health Committee. At the University of Minnesota, Dolan regularly volunteers three hours a week at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Cancer Research Center and has participated in the Scrubs, Gloves and Microscopes Program sponsored by the Health Careers Center. Dolan considers himself a human rights activist, being involved in clubs such as End Slavery Now, Students Take Action Now Darfur (STAND), and Amnesty International. He has a deep passion for music, including piano and violin. He participates in the High School String Quintet and the Philharmonic Orchestra. (continued on next page) City Says Thank You At Annual Reception Mayor Jim Hovland, far left, presented six Mayor’s Commendations at the Volunteer Recognition Reception in April. Recipients included, from left: Dolan Lee, Aaron Kuznia, Karen Hoops, Jack Rice, Betty Pollitt, Edina Community Foundation Executive Director Dick Crockett, Hailey Lee and Shara Mohtadi. Ph o t o b y J e n n i f e r B e n n e r o t t e 32 • SUMMER 2009 33 • SUMMER 2009 Hailey Lee is a junior at Edina High School and member of the City’s Energy & Environment Commission. Outside of school, she is president of End Slavery Now, an anti-human trafficking youth group in the Twin Cities that is dedicated to spreading awareness about human trafficking. Hailey is also a member of Mu Performing Arts Theatre Company, sings in church choir and plays the piano. Hailey is active in school clubs such as Amnesty International, Project Earth, the Multicultural Program and STAND. She is on the planning committee for the Oct. 24 “Edina Day of Service” and will work to encourage all residents and businesses in the community to participate. Hailey has been instrumental in planning the schedule for volunteer musical performances at Sunrise of Edina in the Assisted Living Center. Shara Mohtadi is a junior at Edina High School and a member of the City’s Human Rights & Relations Commission. She earned a letter in school for volunteering 120 hours and truly balances her time while being enrolled in advanced placement/honor courses. Shara has played the violin since she was 3, and she has created a non-profit organization called Music and the World, which donates instruments to inner-city students. She is vice-president of Edina Youth Musicians, playing violin music for nursing homes around Edina. Shara is very active in trying to aid the refugees in the genocide in Darfur, and she helped create the student anti-genocide coalition STAND. Mayor’s Community Involvement Commendation – Engineering Technician Aaron Kuznia Awarded to a City employee for outstanding volunteer service to the community, above and beyond his or her position with the City. When Aaron Kuznia and his wife, Samantha, moved back to the Twin Cities from North Dakota, they decided to get involved with the Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure and the Susan G. Komen Kids Fun Run, which both occur on Mother’s Day weekend. Samantha’s mother and grandmother both died from breast cancer. During the Kids Fun Run, Kuznia’s task is to ensure that all the kids actually stay on the race track and not wander off. Even if it rains, this race goes on, and Kuznia faithfully shows up with his flannel, a smile and cheers for the kids. Kuznia also volunteers for Special Olympics and is a member of the Hopkins Park Board. Many service organizations also recognized their own exemplary volunteers at the reception. Awards were presented to: Jim Van Valkenburg, Edina Art Center; Eileen Bushay, Edina Chamber of Commerce; Edina High School Parent Council, Edina Chemical Health Partners; Matt Boockmeier, Edina Community Channel 16; Carol Retherford and Sarah Miller, Edina Community Foundation; Morningside Neighborhood Association’s Environmental Committee and Michelle Horan, Suzanne Kerwin and Melissa Seeley, Edina Energy & Environment Commission; Sandy Phillips and Jan Larsen, Edina Federated Women’s Club; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Ronald Peterson, Edina Football Association; Dianne Plunkett Latham, Edina Garden Council; Annette Gaughan, Edina Girl Scouts; Renae DeBates, Edina Girls Athletic Association; Ken Swanson and Jim Bentley, Edina Golden K Kiwanis Club; Jay Mogoffin and Larry “Nick” Nickander, Edina Historical Society; Ray Moonen, Edina Lions Club; Mollie Kennedy Harper, Edina Morningside Woman’s Club; Brad Benn, Edina Public Art Committee; Bill Swoap, Edina Soccer Association; Marie Langenfeld, Edina Woman’s Club; Kevin Shaw, 50th & France Business & Professional Association; Woodrow “Wooj” Byun and Mary Younggren, Rotary Club of Edina; Pat Pingatore, Southdale YMCA; and Bill Wilkening, Southdale Y’s Men’s Club. For more information on the Volunteer Recognition Reception, contact Human Services Coordinator Susan Howl, 952-826-0403. Chemistry comes down to the smallest of things. The Human Element. When you add it to hydrogen, oxygen and carbon, the whole world changes. You see new ideas and new solutions to problems facing our planet. At Dow Water & Process Solutions, we harness the power of science and technology to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. From safe drinking water to clean oceans, Dow is working with local partners to build communities that are safer, stronger and more sustainable. The Human Element. It’s what Dow is all about. To learn more about the Human Element and Dow Water & Process Solutions, visit www.dowedina.com ®™ The DOW Diamond Logo and Human Element and design are trademarks of The Dow Chemical Company © 2009 34 • SUMMER 2009 35 • SUMMER 2009 To purge rust and stagnant water from the water distribution system and identify hydrants in need of maintenance, the Utilities Division of the City of Edina’s Public Works Department will flush hydrants for two weeks in September. Random hydrants are also flushed throughout the year as weather and water demand allows. Hydrant-flushing will take place 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. In an attempt to minimize the impact on residents, hydrants will be flushed on the east side of Minnesota Highway 100 the week of Sept. 7 and on the west side of the highway the week of Sept. 14. Due to the hydrant flushing, it is inevitable that some residents will receive rust-colored water that could stain laundry, but it is safe to drink. You should check for signs of discoloration prior to washing clothes. If the water is discolored when you turn on your tap, simply run the water until it is clear. Because the water system is a “single-pressure zone,” it is possible that red water problems will occur in any area of the City while flushing is occurring. For more information regarding hydrant flushing, call the Utilities Division at 952-826-0375 or 952-826-0312. By Kaylin Martin Online media such as Twitter, YouTube and the e-mail subscription service “City Extra” are making it easier than ever to stay connected to the City of Edina. “Edina residents are among the most technologically savvy individuals in the United States and demand timely information through a variety of venues,” said City Manager Gordon Hughes. “Social media is just one more way that we can match the City’s resources with the capabilities and interests of our citizens.” “City Extra” allows residents to choose the topics of which they would like to receive free e-mail updates. Residents can sign up on the City’s homepage and manage their subscription online. In addition to “City Extra,” residents will find on the footer of every page of www.CityofEdina.com a link to “Email this page to a friend,” allowing the user to send information of interest more easily to friends and neighbors. Meetings of the Edina City Council, Park Board, Transportation Commission and Planning Commission are videotaped for playback on Edina Community Channel 16 (EDINA 16) and are available on the City’s website under the “Watch a Meeting” section. In addition to EDINA 16 and the City’s websites, “In Edina,” “Agenda: Edina“ and public service announcements are available on YouTube, where viewers are encouraged to rate and comment on videos. “There is an advantage in having the ability to get direct feedback from residents through mediums such as YouTube,” said Communications & Marketing Director Jennifer Bennerotte. “It opens a new channel of communication and lessens the information gap between residents, business people and the City.” The city is also tweeting on Twitter. Through Twitter, residents can receive updates via text message (standard text messaging rates may apply) or follow the City online at www.twitter.com/EdinaMN. It’s how University of Minnesota graduate Matt Roznowski heard about the summer Communications Internship the City offers each year. “I like to stay updated on local governments and was really excited when I heard about the internship opportunity,” said Roznowski, “Applications like Twitter and YouTube are great tools to give people access to what’s going on in the City.” For more information about how to stay informed, contact the City’s Communications & Marketing Department at 952-826-0359, or visit www.CityofEdina.com/Communications. City Of Edina To Flush Hydrants In September City Reaches Out To Residents Through Technology 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. Do You have insurance for sewer back-up s? Check your policy today! 36 • SUMMER 200937 • SUMMER 2009 Eyewear Boutique Celebrates New Flagship Opening Locally owned eyewear boutique InVision has found a new home, two doors down from its previous location in the Galleria. The larger 1,500-square- foot space is designed for the delight and comfort of the boutique’s customers. InVision has expanded the selection of its most popular optical designers and added new lines. “Our customers know that they can find handmade eyewear in a range of styles from traditional to high- fashion at InVision,” said owner Anthony Bosca. “However, with their busy schedules, customers were requesting more convenient optometry services. With our expanded store, we’re pleased to announce full-time optometry services.” Optometrists Toni Albrecht and Brad Hagemo will be on-site at the Galleria location with extended office hours. With the additional space, InVision is also able to mend and repair glasses in-house. “Now, customers can have their eyes checked and choose frames all in a single visit,” said Bosca. For more information about InVision, call 952-920-5458 or visit www.invision-optical.com. Professional Organizer Works To Clear Office Clutter Ever since she can remember, Sheila Galligan has been cleaning and organizing her coworkers’ desks. The only difference now is that she is getting paid for it. “I was the irritating coworker who was always trying to organize everyone’s mess,” said Galligan with a smile. In November of 2008, Galligan started her own consulting business, Clutter Control Minnesota. She got the idea from a woman she met at a networking event. “When I first spoke with her, I was like ‘that’s a career? Come on. People pay for that?’” recalled Galligan. “Now, I’m grateful they do!” Through her pooled experiences from working in homes, medium-sized and corporate offices, and her 15 years as a project manager with a passion for organization, she felt she was ready to start selling her service. Galligan’s mission is to reduce her clients’ daily stress and increase productivity. She works closely with professionals to create organized, efficient and easy-to- maintain environments, so they can focus on what is truly important: work efficiency. She also holds monthly “brown-bag” complimentary sessions on office organization at various locations as well as “webinars,” online organizing seminars. Even though Galligan puts in 65-hour weeks building her business, she enjoys it. “This has been my favorite and most rewarding job,” she said. “You’re improving someone’s life and there are always smiles at the end of the day.” For more information about Clutter Control Minnesota, call Galligan at 952-922-5645 or visit www.cluttercontrolmn.com New Site Leader Named For Edina Operations Tom Bass has been named site leader of Dow Chemical Company’s Edina Operations. “Edina Operations is a strong, integrated facility with an excellent safety culture and talented, committed people,” said Harry Engelhardt, Jr., predecessor to Bass. “Tom is a knowledgeable and experienced leader, and although he holds global responsibilities, he will bring years of great community experience to Edina.” Bass will bring to the position years of professional service as well. A registered professional engineer in California, he began his career at Dow as an alternating term co-op in the Michigan division in 1984. He held a variety of manufacturing roles in California and Indianapolis until 1995 when he moved to Freeport, Texas, where he served as global improvement leader and later as production leader for Polycarbonate. Following his term in Freeport, Bass become European supply chain manager for Engineering Plastics in Horgen, Switzerland, and Asia new business development director at the Hong Kong location. “I am looking forward to getting to know our community neighbors, and learning more about the role Edina Operations plays as a community partner,” said Bass. Since 1977, Edina has been home to Dow Water Solutions, the world leader in water purification, seawater desalination, contamination removal and water reuse solutions. Dow’s Edina Operations manufacturing site employs approximately 750 people. “I know that Tom is committed to continuing Dow’s strong focus on protecting the safety of our employees and our community, and partnering with our neighbors for long-term, mutual growth in our surrounding areas,” said Engelhardt, Jr. For Edina locations or more information about Dow Water, call 952-897-4363 or visit www.dow.com/minnesota Designer-Inspired Boutique Opens Store In Edina The popular women’s accessories store Fringe opened its doors in downtown Edina at 50th & France in May, bringing the residents of Edina affordable and fashionable finds. “We love the 50th & France area,” said Fringe owner Andrea Rovner. “And we’re really excited about expanding for our new clientele.” Edina’s Fringe boasts a more contemporary atmosphere than its shabby chic counterpart in downtown Hopkins. While the boutique carries trendy items from New York Business Notes InVision’s recently opened new, larger space at the Galleria. Tom Bass (continued on next page) 38 • SUMMER 200939 • SUMMER 2009 City and Los Angeles, the merchandise is priced to please customers of all ages. “I travel a lot to keep current on the trends,” said Rovner. “I can find pieces that are still stylish, but aren’t extremely expensive.” The boutique carries jewelry, scarves, belts and handbags. “Our merchandise turns over quite frequently,” said Rovner. “There is sure to be something for everyone.” Fringe is located at 3906 W. 50th St. For more information about the boutique, call 952-933-1163. Westin Edina Galleria Honored With Respected Award In March, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. named Westin Edina Galleria Starwood Franchise “New Builds and Transitions — Hotel Sales Team of the Year for 2008.” “We are extremely proud that Starwood honored us with this award,” said Westin Edina Galleria General Manager Marc Faubert. “It’s a reflection of our team’s enthusiasm, and it also shows that we have been accepted and embraced by businesses, travelers and the local community.” The award was presented at Starwood’s annual sales conference in Toronto, Canada. The award recognizes a property that achieved rigorous pre-opening sales goals and completed Starwood-mandated action items. Competition was tough as nearly 90 new hotels were built in the Starwood family in 2008. This wasn’t the first honor the Westin Edina Galleria has earned. Since opening in August 2008, the Edina hotel has surpassed 150 other Westin properties in North America and received first-place rankings in customer satisfaction four times. Westin Edina Galleria is located at 3201 Galleria. For more information about the hotel, contact 952-567-5000 or visit www.starwoodhotels.com/westin Edina High School Student Scores Perfect On ACT Silas Wallen-Friedman took the ACT in February and scored a perfect 36, making him one of two students in Minnesota and one of 46 students in the nation to achieve this top score. “We are very excited for Silas and his perfect score on the ACT,” said Edina High School Principal Bruce Locklear. “This score is indicative of Silas’ hard work and commitment to his education, which will pay off as he begins planning for the next phase of his academic career.” Silas’ ACT score qualifies him to attend the most selective colleges and universities in the nation, according to Richard Ferguson, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the ACT. For more information about the ACT, call 319-337-1000 or visit www.act.org — Compiled by Kaylin Martin Stop & smell theflowers Notthe DoggyDooDoo Let usUn-DooDooyour yardthissummer 612-374-3000 www.scoopypoo.net Enjoy a Poo-Free Summer! Weekly Service Starting At $13.25 Scoopy Poo DoggyDoo PickUp4402-1/2 France Ave • EdinaBehind the Yoga House THE International Approach To Real Estate Realtor/ Agent Immobilier Stephane Cattelin Serving The Edina French-American Community Minneapolis Lakes Office 612-924-4352 Office 612-703-8229 Mobile www.StephaneCattelin.com e-PRO, CIPS, TRC Westin Edina Galleria 40 • SUMMER 200941 • SUMMER 2009 By Kaylin Martin Players in the West Metro Senior Softball League prove age is not a factor when it comes to diving in the dirt for grounders, sliding headfirst into second or hitting home runs. “Several guys clear the 300-foot fence on a regular basis,” said Tom Pirsch, a player in the League. And their fans are there to watch every time. “It’s impressive –– they make running catches and fantastic hits,” said Betty McKenzie, a fan and Edina resident who got to know some players on the team while she was spending the winter in Arizona. The League is made up of 120 players, two of whom are women. “We take anyone who can catch and throw the ball, even if they can’t run,” said Bob Hartshorn, West Metro League President. In Senior Softball, the players are allowed to substitute runners for those who are unable to sprint around the bases. The League is then split into six teams based on age –– 50 to 75 –– and skill level. Pirsch said they try their best to keep the talent equally distributed among the teams. Club Titanium –– as some players jokingly refer to their league because of the number of players with artificial joints –– plays year round, spending the summers at Van Valkenburg Park in Edina and the winters in the dome at Academy of Holy Angels in Richfield. They play 50 weeks out of the year. “It’s great for us old guys. It keeps us active and keeps us moving,” said Hartshorn. The Edina Senior Center handles the financial and administrative tasks for the League and helps recruit new softball players as well. “We are very happy to be able to offer this program, which provides such great exercise and camaraderie to our active seniors,” said Sue Weigle, Director of the Senior Center. Senior Softball started in the 1930s when a retired stage actress from New York City moved to Florida and started work in a retirement community. In order to keep the seniors on their feet, she decided to start a softball league. Today, Senior Softball is one of the most popular organized senior sports in the country with over 1.5 million adults playing in the United States, according to Senior Softball-USA, an organization dedicated to informing and uniting Senior Softball players. Players Hit The Ground Running In Senior Softball “Senior Softball players take the sport to an even higher level; extending mutual respect and friendship across team lines,” wrote Terry Hennessy, CEO of Senior Softball-USA, in an online editorial. It’s the friendship between players on top of the amazing plays that keeps fans like McKenzie interested. “The one thing I really appreciate is the comradeship, the bonding that they do, even with other teams,” said McKenzie. “I’ve seen them put their arm around an opposing team member and heckle them. Oh, it’s cute!” To ensure all the players in the West Metro League get to know one another, the teams exchange players three times a year. Strong friendships are built as a result. “Some of the best people I have ever met in my life are out there chasing the goofy ball,” said player Gene Bartz. After every game, the teammates get together for brats, beers and chips at the field. That’s when the teams really get to know each other. “We talk about everything from politics and sports to family,” said Hartshorn. “It’s so much more than just softball –– we become brothers.” Along with the regular season games, the traveling team journeys around the country for tournaments, hitting states such as California, Nebraska, Washington, Oregon and Georgia, where they won the 60s Senior Softball National Championship in 2008. While on the road, it’s not uncommon for the players to bring along their wives. “We have met such nice people at the ball games; us gals really enjoy it,” said Arliss Bartz, Gene’s wife. One player even brought his college-aged grandson along to an out-of-state tournament, where the young man proudly proclaimed he is no longer concerned about aging: “No longer will I worry about getting old because you guys have so much fun.” “Do we ever,” replied Bartz. Van Valkenburg Park is located at 4935 Lincoln Drive. For more information about the West Metro Softball League, call Hartshorn at 612-791-3688 or visit www.seniorsoftball.com Ph o t o b y K a y l i n M a r t i n A few of the guys, and gal, from the team pose for a photo at home plate. “Showtime,” as his teammates call him for his humor and outgoing personality, hits a line drive. Ph o t o b y K a y l i n M a r t i n 42 • SUMMER 200943 • SUMMER 2009 To highlight the best of tile-making on a national level and to present a wide range of artists’ interpretations of the contemporary art form, the Edina Art Center will hold a special exhibition this summer. Tile is no longer seen as only made of clay and glaze materials. It is also a contemporary format in a wide range of media. “The Nature of Tile,” a juried call for art, runs Aug. 31 through Sept. 20. This exhibit is open to all artists working in a variety of media, including clay, glass, wood and mixed media. Artist submissions are due Aug. 1. The public is invited to attend a special “Nature of Tile” reception 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20. In addition to The Nature of Tile exhibit, the Edina Art Center is also a proud site sponsor of this year’s National Tile Conference, “Handmade & Mosaics: Past, Present and Future.” The National Tile Conference takes place at Edina Art Center Sept. 18-20, bringing together a diverse group of eight presenters and artists to discuss and learn about handmade tiles and mosaics for the 21st Century. “As the tile community becomes more of a national community, there is a need to continue to engage each other and help develop new talented artists in the field,” said Edina Art Center Pottery Studio Manager Sandra Shaughnessy. The Tile Conference will focus on the main challenges many tile artists face in developing their tile art, as well as developing new skills. During the Conference, there will be workshops at the Edina Art Center lead by nationally known tile artists Carol Rose Dean, Barbara Keith, Sheila Menzies, Carrie Anne Parks, Joe Taylor, Karin Kraemer and Louis and Allen Voigt. All presenters are leaders in their fields and will cover a wide variety of tile related topics. Of particular interest is Minnesota artist Karin Kraemer. She makes one-of-a-kind tiles for display as well as multiples for installation. Kraemer draws from the places and people around her for her imagery. “I like to capture moments and ordinary things and celebrate them on the tiles,” she said. “It’s these things that matter to each of us in our own personal lives, and mark our day’s adventures.” Menzies and Taylor co-manage the Tile Heritage Foundation in Healdsburg, Calif. The Foundation is a member-supported organization for research and preservation of ceramic surfaces established in 1987. They will give a presentation about tiles and how they are historically noted for their usefulness throughout the world. Art Center Brings National Spotlight To Art of Tile-Making And Community Also during the conference, the eighth- annual Minnesota Tile Festival will be held 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Swedish American Institute, 2900 Park Ave. S. in Minneapolis. This festival is a blend of an arts and trade show featuring guests from The Tile Heritage Foundation, the Potter’s Council and regional tile artists. The Edina Art Center will present tile and mosaic demonstrations at the festival. Brad Benn, Edina Art Center Pottery Instructor and Edina resident, will present a mosaic and tile-making activity for children and adults. Benn has taught pottery for 15 years. Semi-retired, Benn continues teaching Beg & Continuing Clay and Decorative Tile classes at the Edina Art Center. In his tile class, Benn demonstrates how to create relief, border and accent tiles. Students often come to his classes with a specific project in mind. Benn guides them through the entire process as students are able to personalize a specific area of their home, often combining commercial tiles with their own handmade creations. “I encourage students to make their own unique tiles and compliment these with commercially made ones,” Benn said. “This way, a large tile installation is achievable. My students have been very pleased with the results, often attending classes on an ongoing basis.” Visitors to Edina Art Center will find several different tile projects in and around the facility designed and installed by Benn. The main entrance has two tiled benches permanently in place. Outside the main pottery studio is a 2-by-12-foot tiled wall made by students and instructors. The lower level contains a donor tile wall that honors the history, founders, and community of Edina Art Center. For more information about tile in our community, or to request a class schedule, write to ArtCenter@ci.edina.mn.us or call 952-903-5780. To obtain a Nature of Tile application, visit www.EdinaArtCenter.com and download an application from the “Programs & Events” page. For more information about the National Tile Conference or the Minnesota Tile Festival contact Shaughnessy at sshaughnessy@ci.edina.mn.us. Sheila Menzies and Joe Taylor co-manage the Tile Heritage Foundation. They will give a presentation in September at the Edina Art Center. Minnesota artist Karin Kraemer is known for her one-of-a-kind tiles, such as this one depicting sunflowers in front of a City Hall. 44 • SUMMER 200945 • SUMMER 2009 Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People (VEAP) needs your help in giving our neighborhood children the opportunity to start the school year with the basic supplies necessary for a good education. VEAP’s Back-to-School Program provides children in need with a backpack filled with basic supplies appropriate for their grade level. In 2008, VEAP served more than 2,400 area children in need of supplies for school. Statistics from other VEAP programs indicate that number will rise again as we prepare students to return to the classroom in 2009. There is a need for backpacks and basic supplies. Financial donations to VEAP are also welcome to assist in the purchase of items needed for distribution. VEAP also seeks the following items for the provided bags of supplies: • Backpacks • Wide- and college-lined spiral notebooks • Wide- and college-lined loose-leaf paper • Colored pencils in boxes of 12 and 24 • 12-inch rulers • Full-size erasers • Metal Fiskars Scissors with sharp point • White glue • No. 2 pencils in packages of 8 to 10 • Two-pocket folders in solid colors • Glue sticks • Water-based and non-permanent markers • Highlighters • Pencil boxes or zippered pencil pouches • Blue and black ink pens All donations must be new to ensure that the student’s supplies are similar in quality. No used items will be accepted. Donations can be sent at any time to the VEAP office, 9728 Irving Avenue South, Bloomington, MN 55431. Donors should indicate that the goods are for the Back-to-School program. Collection sites will be set up in the community in late July and include Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St., and Edina Fire Station No. 1, 6250 Tracy Ave. Check the VEAP website for additional drop sites at www.veapvolunteers.org. Donated items will be distributed the last week in August. Registration for this program begins in late July and only those registered to participate will receive school supplies. To register, call the VEAP office at 952-888-9616 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. VEAP provides a range of basic services that fulfill an immediate need in people’s lives and position them for long-term success. VEAP has long recognized that there are people in Bloomington, Richfield, Edina and South Minneapolis who are low-income and in need of some help to prevent them from a financial crisis. Based on the idea of neighbors helping neighbors, VEAP provides this critical help to our neighbors in need. For more information about VEAP’s seasonal programs, contact Kristin Hill at 952-888-9616 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. VEAP Seeks Donations To Provide School Supplies For Children In Need Kathy, Silvia and Julie have 39 years of experience as caregivers, 27 of which have been spent touching the lives of residents at English Rose Suites. They are changing the landscape of memory care forever English Rose Suites isanationally regarded memory care program with homes in Edina and Wayzata. For more information call Catherine Clairmont at 612-250-4497. www.englishrosesuites.com Be Inspired. Be Unique. Be Yourself. Edina - 50th and France District Backside of 5-0 Plaza - free parking 952.920.5665 www.indulgeandbloom.com Making Lasting Impressions is What We Do! Whether you’re planning a wedding for 500, a black-tie dinner for 75 or a small engagement for six, our seasoned event team at Indulge & Bloom will take care of all the details to put your mind at ease and ensure your event is as perfect as you imagined. 47 • SUMMER 2009 By Kaylin Martin Non-professional, unlicensed contractors cost homeowners across the nation millions of dollars a year to fix what is left behind: a big mess. “We see the problem first hand: unlicensed contractors who don’t know what they are doing or leave jobs unfinished. That’s what we are trying to help homeowners avoid,” said Building Inspections Secretary Jackie Onischuk, who is working to educate residents about the importance of working with licensed contractors. Edina resident and Minnesota Vikings Linebacker, Ben Leber is fortunate to have never worked with a bad contractor, but said he has heard horror stories from others. “It’s the time that it takes that you never anticipate,” he said. It might take six months for the contractor to finish up, and then once you find out what’s wrong, it is going to take even more time to get it fixed, he explained. When looking to build a new home in December of 2007, Leber heard about the general contractor Great Neighborhood Homes. “Friends had told us that they did great work, so we toured a couple homes they built.” he said. “They did everything the right way and are good people.” President of Great Neighborhood Homes Scott Busyn said he and his team make a point to do good quality work, but also in a timely fashion. “It will save both parties money. Plus, what homeowner isn’t excited to move into their new or remodeled home?” he said. When beginning to look for a contractor, Busyn said it’s important to get multiple detailed bids. “The more detailed the bids, the easier it is to compare,” he said. “Before hiring Scott and his team, we had learned a lot about them,” said Leber. “You have to feel comfortable with who you’re going to decide on, so you can voice your opinions.” Busyn recommends inquiring about best practices such as site management during construction — which involves keeping the job site clean, having a drainage plan during and after construction and taking safety precautions. If the homeowner is interested in green building strategies, that should be looked into beforehand as well. He added that it is just as important to ask if the contractor keeps an open channel of communication with the neighbors and respects their property. “It’s as simple as common courtesy,” said Leber. “You don’t want your neighbors to be mad at you before you even move in.” Building Department Offers Tips To Help Residents Avoid Getting Nailed By Bad Contractors Edina Building Inspector Tedd Nelson examines a residential property to ensure it’s up to Code. Ph o t o b y K a y l i n M a r t i n 46 • SUMMER 2009 Get Recommendations. Your family, friends and neighbors are a great resource. Ask if they have hired a licensed contractor who did quality work and get contact information. Make Sure to Hire a Licensed Contractor. Although there are some exceptions, most residential builders, remodelers and roofers are required to have a state contractor license. To verify licensure, contact the Department of Labor & Industry at 651-284-5069. Contact the Builder Association in your Area. There are several local builder associations in Minnesota and the Builders Association of Minnesota will gladly tell you the appropriate one to contact. If the contractor you have hired is a member, the association will have more specific information. Contact the Builders Association of Minnesota at 651-646-7959. Check for Complaints. The Better Business Bureau may be able to tell you if any complaints have been filed against the contractor. Contact the Better Business Bureau at 651-699-1111. Investigate the Facts. Every contractor will have a list of references. Make a point to contact former customers and ask if they were satisfied with the contractor’s work, if they encountered any problems or would change anything. Ask to see homes the contractor has built or worked on in your price range. Make sure to contact the City’s Building Inspections Department to see if the contractor has done any work in the Community. You can reach the City’s Building Inspections Department at 952-826-0372. Getting Started … (continued on next page) 48 • SUMMER 2009 49 • SUMMER 2009 Once the hiring decision is made, a written contract between the homeowner and the contractor should include a summary of the work to be done, a description of materials or a list of standard features included and the total contract price or how the price will be calculated. Onischuk says the contractor also must provide to you, at no cost, a copy of all documents, including proposals, quotations, change orders and purchase orders when signed. She added that it’s also not a bad idea to include start and completion dates, even though justifiable delays may happen. Also, before any construction begins, the contractor –– not the homeowner –– should take out the building permit, said Onischuk. “If anything were to go wrong, the homeowner would be held liable instead of the contractor, when that shouldn’t be the case,” she explained. Busyn noted to always make sure to have every sub- contractor working on the house sign a lien waver before the project is completed. Lien wavers are a way to protect yourself from having a lien put on your property if the general contractor doesn’t pay the sub-contractors. “It’s an essential piece of the building process that many homeowners overlook,” said Busyn. After the project is completed, but before the contractor has received full payment, an approved final inspection from the City is required, said Onischuk. “This will give the homeowner a sense of security that things were done correctly,” she said. In May, Leber and his wife moved into their new home. They love the new house and neighborhood and moved in knowing everything was built to Code to protect them for years to come. When it comes down to the bottom line, Leber added, “Ask a lot of questions –– always look at protecting yourself.” For more information on how to hire a contractor, contact the City’s Building Inspections Department at 952-826-0372 or visit www.CityofEdina.com/Building. 49 • SUMMER 2009 50 • SUMMER 2009 51 • SUMMER 2009 1) The Edina Morningside Rotary Club recruited 1,056 bikers to participate in the Edina Bike Parade May 17 in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record and raise money for programs that impact youth. 2) Nearly 20 area restaurants participated in the Edina Chamber of Commerce’s Taste of Edina May 14 at Centennial Lakes Park. 3) Dozens of wines were sampled at the 2009 Taste of Edina. 4) The Edina City Council honored Michael Bossard, Bob Solheim and Police Officer Marc Limbeck with commendations for saving a man trapped inside a house fire in early April. 5) Despite the rain, more than 5,000 people signed up to participate in the Get Your Rear in Gear event at Southdale Center April 19. The 5K is a fundraiser for the Colon Cancer Coalition. There are four similar events yet this year in other parts of the country. 6) Kurt Dougherty, center, poses with his parents and wife after receiving the Edina Chamber of Commerce’s 2009 Business Person of the Year Award. 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 3Ph o t o b y B r i a n S m i t h 2Ph o t o b y B r i a n S m i t h 1Ph o t o b y K a y l i n M a r t i n 54Ph o t o b y J e n n i f e r B e n n e r o t t e 50 • SUMMER 200951 • SUMMER 2009 ABBOTT BROS.TREE CARE TREE TRIMMING &REMOVAL TREE PLANTING STUMP GRINDING BRUSH HAULING &LOT CLEARING CERTIFIED ARBORISTS INSURED -EMPLOYEE OWNED LOCAL EDINA COMPANY 612-889-8317 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 6