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Edina, MN
AboutTown Magazine
City of Edina
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.cityofedina.com
SUMMER•2003
About Town
Official Magazine of the City of Edina
Edina will be
‘Hometown USA’
Page 26
for details
***ECRWSS***
POSTAL PATRON
CAR-RT-WS
About Town
Receives State
Award
The Minnesota Association of
Government Communicators
(MAGC) recently presented
the City of Edina with awards
for its publications About
Town and AboutBusiness.
The newsletters were each
selected for an Award of Merit
in the “newsletter” category of
MAGC’s annual Northern
Lights Awards competition.
Judges made special note of
the publications’ easy-to-read
and useful content and cost-
effective use of two-color
printing.
The City has been producing
About Town since 1990 for all
residents and most
businesses. Introduced in
January 2002 as a supplement
to About Town, AboutBusiness
is a quarterly publication
produced to keep Edina
business people informed of
local government news,
activities and programs of
importance.
The City was also presented
an Award of Merit in the
Northern Lights Competition
for its City Expo 2002
marketing materials. Similar to
an “open house,” the biennial
City Expo provides children
and families the opportunity to
meet their elected officials and
learn about City departments,
services, programs and
facilities.
For more information on the
City’s publications or
communications projects,
contact Communications Director
Jennifer Wilkinson, 952-832-6063.
Table of Contents
A Word From The Mayor ......................................................5
New City Hall’s History Dates Back to 1888 ......................6
Hot Happenings In Park And Recreation ..........................13
VEAP Continues Back-to-School Program ........................14
Edina Community Foundation Appoints
New Executive Director ......................................................15
Historical Society Executive Director To Retire ..............16
Construction Begins On Indoor Play Structure ...............18
It’s Not Only Neighborly…It’s The Law! ...........................19
Noted Humanitarian Retires From
Human Relations Commission ...........................................20
Artist Overcomes Disability And Promotes
Safety To Edina Fourth Graders ........................................22
Edina Will Be ‘Hometown U.S.A.’ July 4, 2003 .................24
Historic Baird House Receives Edina’s First
Heritage Award ....................................................................26
Two City Employees Called Into Military Action ............28
Voluntary Smallpox Vaccination Program Begins ...........30
October Is Buckthorn Abatement Month In Edina .........32
Blanchard’s Love Affair Lasts More Than 30 Years ........34
Adama Sow Adds International Perspective
To Edina Art Center Faculty ...............................................36
City of Edina To Flush Hydrants
In September, October ........................................................38
City To Host Two Summer Races ......................................39
City Thanks Volunteers At 24th Annual Reception ..........40
AboutTown
Volume 15, Number 3
Summer 2003
Official Publication of the
City of Edina, Minnesota
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, Minnesota 55424
952-927-8861
Circulation 25,000
Editor:Jennifer Wilkinson
Publisher:City of Edina
About Town is produced by the City of Edina.
To advertise in About Town, contact Richard Barbeau at
Barbeau Marketing Group, 612-721-1162 or 612-965-2041.
Copyright 2003 by City of Edina, 4801 West 50th Street, Edina,
MN 55424.
About Town is published quarterly by the City of Edina. The
purpose of the magazine is to keep Edina residents informed
of news, activities and programs that are important to them.
We include articles of interest about our citizens and
community history as well.
About Town is printed on recycled paper to conform to City
conservation guidelines.
www.ci.edina.mn.us or www.cityofedina.com
Cover photo by Ted Stephenson
1•SUMMER 2003
SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY
1
Noon, Children’s
Music with Bruce
Bell, Centennial Lakes
Park.
7 p.m., Edina HRA&
City Council, Edina
City Hall.
2
By appointment,
Hearing Tests, Edina
Senior Center.
7 p.m., Zuhrah Shrine
Jolly Nobles,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
3
Noon, Hoot &Annie,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
5:30 p.m., Board of
Appeals, Edina City
Hall.
4
10 a.m., July 4 parade.
6:30-10:30 p.m., Edina
Art Center Open
House.
Independence Day.
Most City offices
closed.
5
6
2-6 p.m., Zuhrah
Shrine Antique Car
Show, Centennial
Lakes Park.
7 p.m., Shakespeare
in the Park, “Macbeth,”
Centennial Lakes
Park.
7
7 p.m., Brooklyn
Community Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
8
Noon, Ms. Catherine
&Friends, Centennial
Lakes Park.
7 p.m., Park Board,
Edina City Hall.
7 p.m., Heritage
Preservation Board,
Edina City Hall.
9
9 a.m.-5 p.m.,
Woodland Symposium,
Arneson Acres Park.
10 a.m.-7 p.m., Edina
Garden Council
Garden Tour, begins
at Arneson Acres
Park.
10
5 p.m., Exhibition
opening and reception,
Edina Art Center.
7 p.m., AlphaBits
Band, Centennial
Lakes Park.
11
By appointment
beginning at 8:30 a.m.,
Podiatrist Appointments
with fee charge, Edina
Senior Center.
12
13
6 p.m., Jim Shannon
Strolling Piano,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
7 p.m., First John
Philip Sousa
Memorial Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
14
7 p.m., Medicine Show
Band, Centennial
Lakes Park.
15
7 p.m., Edina HRA&
City Council, Edina
City Hall.
16
7 a.m., Recycling and
Solid Waste
Commission, Edina
City Hall.
7 p.m., Bloomington
Medalist Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
1819
20
7 p.m., Eden Prairie
Community Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
21
1-3:30 p.m., MASKS!
for ages 9-12, Edina
Art Center.
7 p.m., Minnesota
Mandolin Orchestra,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
22
Noon, Carol McCormick
Storyteller, Centennial
Lakes Park.
7 p.m., Human
Relations Commission,
Edina City Hall.
23
7 p.m., Scott Frasier
Guitar Duo,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
24
Noon, Wiggle, Jiggle
& Jam, Centennial
Lakes Park.
25
By appointment
beginning at 8:30 a.m.,
Podiatrist Appointments
with fee charge, Edina
Senior Center.
26
29
Noon, Bob the
Beachcomber,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
28
1-3:30 p.m.,
Storytelling Through
Paint for ages 9-12,
Edina Art Center.
7 p.m., Jazz on the
Prairie Big Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
27
7 p.m., Northern
Winds Concert Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
About Town Calendar
JULY 2003
30
7 p.m., Hopkins
Westwind Concert
Band, Centennial
Lakes Park.
7:30 p.m., Planning
Commission, Edina
City Hall.
31
Noon, Brodini
Comedy Magic Show,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
17
Noon, Mary Hall Show
for Pipsqueaks with
Pipi the Mouse,
Centennial Lakes Park.
3:30 p.m., Time
Capsule Dedication,
Edina City Hall.
5:30 p.m., Board of
Appeals, Edina City Hall.
2•SUMMER 2003
SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY
12
3
1-4 p.m., Exhibition
opening and
reception, Edina Art
Center.
7 p.m., Minneapolis,
Police Concert Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
4
7 p.m., Northstar
Barbershop Chorus,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
5
Noon, Kristi’s Kid
Songs, Centennial
Lakes Park.
7 p.m., Edina HRAand
City Council, Edina
City Hall.
6
7 p.m., Konzelmans,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
7
5:30 p.m., Board of
Appeals, Edina City
Hall.
8
9:30 a.m.-noon, Clay
Sculpture for ages 4 to
6, Edina Art Center.
9
10
7 p.m., Stan Bann Big
Band, Centennial
Lakes Park.
11
7 p.m., Zuhrah Shrine
Concert Band,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
12
1:15-3 p.m., Blood
Pressure Clinic, Edina
Senior Center.
7 p.m., Park Board,
Edina City Hall.
7 p.m., Heritage
Preservation Board,
Edina City Hall.
13
7 p.m., Zuhrah Shrine
Flames, Centennial
Lakes Park.
1516
17
Lighthouse Night
7 p.m., Jim Shannon
Strolling Piano,
Centennial Lakes Park.
8:30 p.m., First John
Philip Sousa Band,
Edinborough Park.
18
7 p.m., Swing Train
Duo, Centennial Lakes
Park.
19
Noon, Wonderful
World of Woody,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
7 p.m., Edina HRA&
City Council, Edina
City Hall.
20
7 a.m., Recycling and
Solid Waste
Commission, Edina
City Hall.
7 p.m., Just Friends
Big Band, Centennial
Lakes Park.
21
5:30 p.m., Board of
Appeals, Edina City
Hall.
22
By appointment
beginning at 8:30 a.m.,
Podiatrist Appointments
with fee charge, Edina
Senior Center.
23
26
Noon, Magic of Brian
Gilbertson, Centennial
Lakes Park.
7 p.m., Human
Relations Commission,
Edina City Hall.
25
7 p.m., Sentimental
Swing, Centennial
Lakes Park.
24
7 p.m., Moonlight
Serenaders, Centennial
Lakes Park.
8 p.m., Edina Aquatic
Center closes for the
season.
31
About Town Calendar
AUGUST 2003
27
7 p.m., Die Bavarian
Music Meisters,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
7:30 p.m., Planning
Commission, Edina
City Hall.
28
Noon, Will Hale &the
Tadpole Parade,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
8 p.m., Splash Jam,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
29
14
Noon, Kit &Kaboodle,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
30
5•SUMMER 2003
“Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just
sit there.”--Will Rogers
With motivational phrases like those in mind, the Edina City Council
recently began reviewing its long-range plan, “Edina’s Vision 20/20.”
Crafted three years ago, Edina’s Vision 20/20 is a long-term vision
for the City and a short-term strategic plan of three to five years. The
plan included nine objectives, or goals. I am pleased to report that we
have accomplished many of those goals. Among our accomplishments:
Objective No. 1:Maintain strong residential neighborhoods.
• Affordable and life-cycle housing opportunities have been
encouraged with the preservation of affordable housing units at
Oak Glen and development of Grandview Square.
• A Local Traffic Task Force was created to study ways to reduce
non-local, cut-through traffic. The task force recently completed
its study and issued a report to the City Council.
Objective No. 2:Provide a level of City services that sets Edina
apart from other communities.
• To attract and retain competent employees who are key to delivering
exceptional services, the City has enhanced employee benefits and
created internal appreciation and recognition programs.
• The City is constantly adapting its services to meet the changing
demographics of the community.
Objective No. 3:Provide capital investments that balance need
and affordability
• The Grandview Square redevelopment project was completed,
which facilitated the relocation of the Edina Community Library
and construction of Edina Senior Center.
• A new Edina City Hall and police facility is under construction.
• A five-year Capital Improvement Program has been put into place
and updated annually.
• The City received an Aaa bond rating from Moody’s Investors
Services and AAA bond rating from Standard & Poor’s – the
highest ratings possible.
Objective No. 4:Accommodate the efficient movement of people
and goods in and around Edina.
• The Edina Dial-A-Ride program was initiated.
• The City played a major role in the Dan Patch Corridor
Commuter Rail Study to ensure fair consideration of its positive
and negative effects on the community.
Objective No. 5:Take an active role in future redevelopment strategies.
• An amended Comprehensive Plan was adopted that includes a
redevelopment element.
• The City has acquired properties key to redevelopment of the
Wooddale and Valley View commercial area.
Objective No. 6:Facilitate the evolution of Southdale and
environs into a premier shopping, business and health care center.
• The City supported the expansions of Southdale Center and
Fairview Southdale Hospital.
Objective No. 7:Develop a stronger working relationship with
Edina Public Schools.
• The City is a very active participant in the school district’s youth
asset-building initiative “Connecting With Kids.”
Objective No. 8:Match the City’s technological capabilities with
the needs and desires of residents and business people.
• The City’s website, www.cityofedina.com, was redesigned and
e-commerce implemented.
• In connection with the construction of Edina City Hall, the City will
install the infrastructure needed to televise City Council and major
commission meetings.
The ninth objective was to “continually update and refine Vision
20/20.” This spring, the City Council began discussing potential
revisions. Later this year, we hope to provide residents with the
updated plan. I am confident that the updated plan will ensure
Edina continues to be “the preeminent place for living, learning,
raising families and doing business.”
Dennis F. Maetzold
Mayor
4•SUMMER 2003
OTHER DATES TO REMEMBER:
July 1 1-3:30 p.m., Print-Making for children ages 9-12,
Edina Art Center.
July 8 1:15-3 p.m., Blood Pressure Clinic, Edina Senior
Center.
July 9 7 p.m., Bloomington Medalist Band, Centennial
Lakes Park.
July 17 1-3:30 p.m., Explore Art for children ages 4-6,
Edina Art Center.
Aug. 17 Ironkids Triathlon, Edina Aquatic Center.
Sept. 12 By appointment beginning at 8:30 a.m.,
podiatrist appointments with fee charge, Edina
Senior Center.
GARDENS OF DISTINCTION
What:The Edina Garden Council will hold its biennial
Garden Tour, dubbed “Gardens of Distinction.”
The cost is $10 in advance and $12 at the door.
For advance tickets, contact any Garden Council
member. Tickets can be purchased after 9:30
a.m. the day of the tour at Arneson Acres Park.
When:10 a.m.-7 p.m. July 9
Where:The tour begins at Arneson Acres Park, 4711 W.
70th St.
Info:952-941-9589
LIGHTHOUSE NIGHT
What:Started by the Edina Model Yacht Club,
Lighthouse Night has become an annual event
at Centennial Lakes Park. More than 100 Tiki
Torches will burn behind the Centrum and
the park’s special lighting will be highlighted.
At 8 p.m., there will be open boating in the
Central Pond for model yachts. Jim Shannon
will play the “strolling piano” at 7 p.m. The
First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band will
perform in the amphitheater at 8:30 p.m. At
dusk, the boats from the Model Yacht Club
will light up the lake. Interior cockpit and
cabin lights, searchlights and floodlights will
shimmer off the water. The backdrop will be a
floating and fully operational scaled model of
a lighthouse.
When:Sunday, Aug. 17
Where:Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S.
Info:952-832-6789
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, fall and
winter entertaining and indoor décor, rustic
accessories and glittering jewelry. More than
125 talented artists from around the Midwest
will display and sell their work at the first
ever 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. 13 and 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14
Where:Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S.
Info:www.FallintotheArtsFestival.com
Summer Calendar Highlights A Word From The Mayor
3•SUMMER 2003
SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY
2
7 p.m., Edina HRA&
City Council, Edina
City Hall.
7 p.m., Jim Berner,
Edinborough Park.
3
By appointment,
Hearing Tests, Edina
Senior Center.
5-8 p.m., Fall skating
class registration,
Braemar Arena.
4
5 p.m., Exhibition
opening and reception,
Edina Art Center.
5:30 p.m., Board of
Appeals, Edina City
Hall.
561
Labor Day
observed. Most City
offices closed.
Edinborough Park
play structure opens.
7 8
Fall classes begin at
the Edina Art Center.
9
1:15-3 p.m., Blood
Pressure Clinic, Edina
Senior Center.
7 p.m., Park Board,
Edina City Hall.
7 p.m., Heritage
Preservation Board,
Edina City Hall.
101112
By appointment
beginning at 8:30 a.m.,
Podiatrist
Appointments with fee
charge, Edina Senior
Center.
13
10 a.m.-7 p.m., Fall
into the Arts Festival,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
14
10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fall
into the Arts Festival,
Centennial Lakes
Park.
15 16
7 p.m., Edina HRA&
City Council, Edina
City Hall.
7 p.m., Claire Van De
Crommert,
Edinborough Park.
17
7 a.m., Recycling and
Solid Waste
Commission, Edina
City Hall.
1920
21
7 p.m., Just Friends
Big Band,
Edinborough Park.
2223
7 p.m., Dr. Tone &the
Rhythm Thang,
Edinborough Park.
7 p.m., Human
Relations Commission,
Edina City Hall.
24
8 a.m., Senior
Advisory Council,
Edina Senior Center.
7:30 p.m., Planning
Commission, Edina
City Hall.
252627
30
7 p.m., Armenian
Dance Ensemble,
Edinborough Park.
2928
10 a.m., Great Duck
Chase, Centennial
Lakes Park.
7 p.m., First John
Philip Sousa
Memorial Band,
Edinborough Park
About Town Calendar
SEPTEMBER 2003
18
Noon, Ms. Catherine
&Friends,
Edinborough Park.
5:30 p.m., Board of
Appeals, Edina City
Hall.
By Joe Sullivan, Freelance
Writer and Edina Resident
As this edition of AboutTown
goes to press, construction of
Edina’s new, combined City Hall
and Police Department – located
next door to the existing City
Hall on the former site of the
Edina Community Library – is
rapidly moving toward
completion. After a dedication
this fall, the City’s administrative offices and the police
department will move from crowded conditions in the
current City Hall to the building. After that, the 50-year-old
existing building will be razed and the space it now
occupies will become a much needed, enlarged parking lot.
The history of Edina’s City Hall dates back to 1888, when
the community seceded from Richfield Township. Shortly
after its incorporation, the residents of the new village
voted to name it “Edina.” (According to Edina – Chapters
in the City’s History by Deborah Morse-Kahn, “Edina” was
a nickname for Edinburgh, Scotland, that appeared in a
poem by Scottish poet Robert Burns.) One of the newly
elected Village Council’s first tasks was to find a place
to meet.
Minnehaha Grange Was Edina’s First Village Hall
For $25 a year, the Village Council rented the hall of
Minnehaha Grange No. 398 for its meetings, elections and
other civic affairs. Originally on the southeast corner of
today’s West 50th Street and Wooddale Avenue, the
Grange Hall remained the headquarters of the tiny village
for the next 54 years.
Morse-Kahn described the Grange in her book, “Although
the Grange, a fraternal organization, was somewhat
mysterious to many city dwellers, it was clear that its hall was
the center of a busy social life at the nucleus of the village.”
7•SUMMER 20036•SUMMER 2003
New City Hall’s History
Dates Back To 1888
In 1935, the Grange Hall was moved to 50th and
Normandale Road to make way for construction of St.
Stephen the Martyr Episcopal Church. In 1968, the State
purchased the second Grange Hall site for a new
Minnesota Highway 100 interchange at 50th. Today, the
restored Grange Hall is located in the nearby historic park
on Eden Avenue and Highway 100.
Village Hall Proposed In 1935 Was Never Built
An article in the October 1935 issue of The Crier reported that
the Village of Edina had applied that year for financial aid from
the federal Public Works Administration to build a proposed
Village Hall and “community house.” The proposed building
was planned for the site of the so-called “yellow brick”
elementary school, erected in 1887 on the site of today’s City
Hall on land that had been deeded to Edina School District 17
by pioneer Edina farmer and businessman Andrew Craik.
The cost of razing the vacant school building and leveling
the property was estimated at $12,000, of which only about
$1,500 would have been borne by the Village. The proposed
brick and concrete building was to be 88-by-116 feet. A
Council room would have provided space for Council
meetings as well as storage of Village records, which were
being kept in the homes of Village officials. Brick, lumber
and flooring salvaged from demolition of the school were to
be used in the new, two-story building.
The building was never built. There is no record of why,
but one possibility is that the requested federal funding,
which would have represented the bulk of the project’s
financing, was not secured.
Edina Builds Partially Completed Village Hall
In 1942
Almost a year after the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor brought
the United States into World War II, Mayor Earle C. Sharpe
announced the opening of Edina’s first Village Hall and
police station. It was a capped basement erected on 50th
across from the golf course of the Thorpe Country Club,
later renamed the Edina Country Club. The land was deeded
to the Village in 1938 by School District 17 for $1,000.
(continued on next page)
The Edina Village Council met at the Minnehaha Grange
Hall from 1888 to 1942. Today, the restored Grange Hall is
next to the one-room Cahill School in the historic park at
Minnesota Highway 100 and Eden Avenue.
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Edina’s first Village Hall was built in 1942-46 on the same site
as today’s City Hall at 4801 W. 50th St. The crowded, barracks-
like Village Hall was razed in 1954 to make way for a new
Village Hall and fire station.
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drafting room, a walk-in vault and an auditorium, plus police
and fire stations.
Time For A Change? Edinans Approved A New Form
Of Government In 1954
About the time the new Village Hall was nearing
completion, a new challenge was delivered to Edina’s
voters. A survey entitled “The Citizens’ Report on
Government Revision” pointed out that Edina, then a
municipality of nearly 17,000 residents, was being governed
under a form of government most often used by
communities with as few as 100 people.
The March 11, 1954 Edina-Morningside Courier reported that
Edina’s government operated “under the ‘standard village
plan’ defined by Minnesota Statutes in 1949.” A citizens’
committee recommended that Edina move to a “Minnesota
Plan B” council-manager type of government
that would require a full-time village manager,
clerk and treasurer.
The citizens’ report concluded, “… community
understanding and backing, a cooperative
Council and a trained and experienced manager
will bring countless improvements and give
greater value to the tax dollar.”
In a Sept. 15, 1954 election, Edina voters
approved the recommendation – by a margin of
2,677 to 530 – a change to the council-manager
form of government, which is still in force.
Warren Hyde Hired As First
Full-Time Village Manager
Not long after its new
form of government was
approved, a search began for
the “experienced manager”
described in the 1954
citizens’ committee report.
The top candidate
was Warren Hyde, whose
credits included experience
as a city manager in
Janesville, Wis.; Albert Lea,
Minn.; Western Springs, Ill;
and East Cleveland, Ohio. On
May 1, 1955, Hyde assumed
the duties of Sidney Mitchell,
A November 1942 Minneapolis Tribune article described
the partially completed Village Hall, “Because of wartime
building restrictions, the new hall is only the basement of
the structure Village fathers planned. Cost of the structure
was $4,950. It provides a meeting room for the Council and
offices for Village police, engineer, recorder and assessor.”
In 1946, after the war, the above-ground portion of the
frame building, which looked like one of the three-bedroom
rambler houses being built nearby in former farm fields,
was completed.
Current City Hall Was Built In 1953
In the early 1950s, Village departments were expanding to
keep up with the former sleepy, mostly rural community’s
development into a metropolitan suburb. On July 23, 1951,
the Edina Village Council appointed a citizens’ committee,
headed by Harold C. Utley, to investigate the possibility of
constructing a larger municipal office building.
The citizens’ committee recommended that the new
building be built on the same site as the 1942 Village Hall. A
land swap was arranged with American Legion Post No. 471,
then located on Eden Avenue next to the first Village Hall.
Two small parcels of Legion Post land, needed for the new
Village Hall, were deeded to the Village. In return, the
Village deeded to the Legion a small parcel that encroached
on Village property and another 40-foot-wide strip abutting
the Legion’s property, which was to be used as a parking lot.
The citizens’ committee plan proposed that the building be
financed mainly with $135,000 of profits from the Edina
Municipal Liquor Store, then located on 50th near France
Avenue. After approving that recommendation, the Village
Council hired two local architectural firms – McEnary & Krafft
and Lang & Raugland – to design the proposed building.
A $274,000 general contract for construction of the building
was awarded to C.O. Field Co., Minneapolis. Village
officials in charge of the project were Village Manager
& Engineer Sidney R. Mitchell and his assistant
Richard E. Olson.
Construction began July 1, 1953, and was completed May 1,
1954. The building provided offices for the Village’s
departments – engineering, building inspection, plumbing
inspection, utilities and property assessment – plus a large
8•SUMMER 2003 9•SUMMER 2003
(continued on next page)
The present City Hall was completed in 1954. Note the fire station at right and its
tower for drying fire hoses.
April 28, 1954 – moving day. Village employees moved boxes
through the front entrance of the new Village Hall. Note the
original Village Hall in the background.
Warren Hyde managed Edina
as a mostly-rural village until
1977, when it was one of
America’s three or four
outstanding smaller cities.
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to the City Council its recommendations for remodeling
the current City Hall. BKV indicated that remodeling
would require several improvements to meet current
building standards. In addition, costs would be incurred
to relocate City Hall offices while renovations were
under way. They estimated the total construction cost of
renovating City Hall, not including moving expenses, at
$4.8 million.
In February of 2002, when bids for renovation of the library
exceeded the established budget by 10 percent, officials
advised the Council that remodeling City Hall was also
likely to be very costly. At that point, it became evident that
renovation costs on both projects were approaching the
cost of building a single, dual-purpose building.
In May 2002, based on the following criteria,
the City Council agreed to consider a design for a
combined City Hall and police station to be built on the
former site of the Community Library:
• Construction costs
• Added efficiency of having both City Hall and police
department functions in the same building
• More space for parking
• No need to relocate City Hall operations while current
building was being renovated
10•SUMMER 2003
the former Village manager and engineer who had resigned
three months earlier.
In 1960, Hyde, with the assistance of his wife Janet (who
was Morningside’s village clerk at the time) helped reunite
Edina and Morningside after the two communities had
existed as separate villages for 40 years after separating
in 1920.
In 1977, after more than 22 years as Edina’s manager, Hyde
retired and was succeeded by Ken Rosland. Hyde moved to
Sanibel Island, Fla., where he died in 1988, at age 75.
Former Edina Mayor Jim VanValkenburg honored him,
saying “Warren Hyde
presided over the ‘bricks and
mortar’ period of Edina’s
growth. An essentially rural
village acquired the
infrastructure of streets,
sewer and water services on
the way to becoming a
metropolitan suburb.”
Rosland retired in 1998
and Assistant City Manager
Gordon Hughes, a long-
time City employee who
began work in the early
1970s as environmental
planner, was named city
manager.
Update On Recent City
Hall Developments
The initial concept for the
new City Hall now under
construction called for
remodeling the current
building and moving the
Police Department from its
overcrowded quarters on
the lower level of the
existing building into the
1968 Edina Community
Library. (The library was
already planning to relocate
in the new multi-use
building at 5280 Grandview
Square -- a move that took
place last fall.) The cost of
remodeling the library
building for City use was estimated at $3.7 million.
In November 2001, Boarman Kroos Vogel (BKV) Group, a
Minneapolis architecture and engineering firm, presented
(continued on next page)
On hand for the Nov. 15, 2002, official groundbreaking for
Edina’s new City Hall and public safety building were City
Manager Gordon Hughes and four members of the Edina
City Council.
Ken Rosland worked for Edina
from 1957 to 1998, 21 years
of which he was the City
Manager.
The exterior of Edina’s new, dual-purpose City Hall and police
station is lannon stone with copper trim. A modernistic portico
accents the front entrance. Two stories of glass make the main
lobby fully visible from the outside.
Edina: Rural Village to Suburban City –
1955 to 2003
19552003
Residents 17,000 47,620
Employees 50-60256
Operating Budget $440,308$22.2 million
Gordon Hughes, Edina’s City
Manager since 1998, joined
the City staff in 1974 as
Environmental Planner.
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Last summer, Adolfson & Peterson, Minneapolis, was
named construction manager of the project. It was
assigned to work with BKV to develop cost estimates on
a new, dual-purpose, City Hall/police station building.
Construction cost of the 57,000-square-foot facility is
estimated at $10.4 million and the project will be paid for
with lease revenue bonds sold in December 2001.
Construction began last November. Completion of the
new City Hall and police station is scheduled for
December.
Hughes is enthusiastic about the new City Hall/police
station. “The present building is not up to today’s
standards,” he said. “Everybody at City Hall has tried
for years to work around the crowded conditions, but
the time has come to build a modern up-to-date building
that will handle the City’s needs. We hope the new City
Hall will continue to serve the community as well as the
present one has served for the last 50 years.”
Background material and photographs for this article came
from the archival collections of Edina Historical Society;
Minnesota Historical Society; Village of Edina; personal
recollections of Bill Hansen, Ken Rosland, Eric Anderson and
Gordon Hughes; and the following publications: Minnehaha
Grange #398 – 1873-1993; Edina – Chapters in the City’s
History by Deborah Morse-Kahn; The History of Edina,
Minnesota by Paul D. Hesterman; 150 Years of Edina Life,
by Deborah Morse-Kahn; Edina: A Survey, by the Edina
League of Women Voters; Minneapolis Journal; The Crier;
Minneapolis Tribune; Minneapolis Star; Edina-Morningside
Courier; Edina Sun and Edina Sun-Current.
Hot Happenings In Park
And Recreation
Summer is here and the City of Edina’s Park and
Recreation Department has planned many events and
activities for you and your children.
Playground Program
Children ages 6 to 10 are able to play and complete special
activities at many local parks through the summer Playground
Program. Check your 2003 Activities Directory or the City
website, www.cityofedina.com, for dates and locations.
Countryside Park will be the
home site for youth ages 9 to
12 years old. Older youth can
hang with their friends, play
games and participate in
special events just for them.
Staff will make up new games
and play old favorites. Arts and
crafts will also enhance the day.
Cost is $21 per participant per six-week session. Register
online or at City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St. For more
information, call 952-826-0367.
Nature Camp
Discover the wonderful world of nature in an urban setting.
A four-day camp will be held July 28-31. Children entering
kindergarten or first grade will meet from 9 a.m. to noon.
Children entering grades two through five will meet from
1 to 4 p.m. Both camps will be held at Rosland Park
(formerly Lake Cornelia Park). Campers will explore a
new theme each day, learning about wildlife that flies,
creeps, crawls and swims.
Cost is $55 per person. Register online or at Edina City Hall.
For more information, call 952-826-0367.
Healthy Hornets
Healthy Hornets is a new summer program designed for families
to explore Edina’s parks. The interactive program began in May,
but families can join in now and participate independently as their
schedules allow. After completing activities online at
www.cityofedina.com, participants receive lists of places to visit at
local parks. Participants will visit the parks and try to find 10 hidden
Healthy Hornets to win prizes and an invitation to a special event!
There is no cost to participate. For more information, visit
the City’s website or call Recreation Supervisors Donna
Tilsner, 952-832-0432, or Susie Miller, 952-826-0433.
Reserve A Park
Buildings at Todd, Cornelia School, Weber and Walnut Ridge
parks are available for rent for birthday parties, small
reunions, neighborhood meetings and other events. These
are pleasant buildings with clean restrooms and easy parking.
For more information or to rent a building, call the Park
and Recreation Department at 952-826-0367.
Braemar Ice Arena
Registration for fall skating lessons will be held Wednesday
Sept. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Arena, 7501 Ikola Way.
Classes begin in mid-September and end in late October.
For more information on skating lessons or public skating
times, visit the Arena’s website, www.braemar-arena.com, or
call 952-941-1322.
12•SUMMER 2003 13•SUMMER 2003
Most Of TheWorld’s
Great Wines Are Available In
This Region.
EDINA LIQUOR
Enjoy Our Products in Moderation.
Grandview (near Jerry’s Foods)•Southdale (next to Cub Foods)
50th & France (next to Lunds)
Playground program.
The Edina Community Foundation Board of Directors recently
hired Richard B. Crockett as Executive Director.
An Edina resident and Stanford Law School graduate, Crockett
is a member of the Gray Plant Mooty law firm in Minneapolis.
He joined the firm in 1999 after 30 years of providing a broad
range of legal services to colleges and universities, first as
in-house counsel at North Dakota State University in the 1970s
and 1980s, then with a law firm in Syracuse, N.Y.
He has participated
in many community
non-profit
organizations and
foundations in
North Dakota, New
York and Minnesota
through board
leadership positions,
as legal counsel
and as a volunteer
consultant on
organizational
development and
strategic planning
issues. Among the
foundations he
has been involved with are the Fargo Moorhead Area
Foundation, North Dakota State University Development
Foundation, Central New York Community Foundation,
SUNY ESF College Foundation and Gray Plant
Mooty Foundation.
“Dick Crockett, by education, training and experience
brings a wealth of talent and ability with which to serve the
Edina Community Foundation,” said Foundation President
James B. Hovland. “He has a keen interest in Edina, and I
know his enthusiasm, skills and leadership qualities will
help build our community foundation to the level where it
can make Edina an even better place to live, learn and raise
families for many generations to come.”
Crockett continues his position at Gray Plant Mooty while
taking on his new position at the Foundation. He succeeds
interim Executive Director Patricia A. Tucker, who will continue
to serve the Foundation as Development Officer. Tucker is past
president of the Edina Chamber of Commerce and is a current
board member of Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People.
The Foundation’s objective is to respond to emerging and
changing community needs by providing financial
assistance and support for academic programs, age-
appropriate teen activities and senior-related projects. In
addition, the Foundation fosters partnerships with
community service organizations that provide vital links
between various segments of the community.
“I’m looking forward to working with the Board and other
friends of the Foundation in identifying needs in our city
and then developing and allocating funds to meet those
needs,” said Crockett.
The Edina Community Foundation office is located at 5280
Grandview Square. For more information or to donate, call
952-833-9573.
15•SUMMER 2003
VEAP Continues Back-to-School
Program
14•SUMMER 2003
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
every child in need
with a bag of basic
school supplies, plus a
backpack or calculator
and a $15 gift certificate with which to buy socks and
underwear or another clothing item. Last year, more than
1,250 children received supplies. Based on statistics from
its other programs, VEAP officials expect a similar double-
digit percentage increase in usage this year.
VEAP distributes items valued at an average of $60 per pre-
registered child to ensure that he or she has the basic tools
necessary to start the school year off right. You can make a
real difference in a child’s education by donating some of
the items on the wish list below; donating gift certificates
from Herberger’s, Kohl’s, Marshall Field’s, TJ Maxx,
Southdale Center, Target or Wal-Mart; or by sponsoring a
child with a monetary donation.
VEAP’s Back-to-School Wish List:
Backpacks
Scientific calculators
Spiral notebooksWide- and college-ruled
Loose-leaf paperWide- and college-ruled
Rulers12-inch with metric measurements
ScissorsMetal Fiskars with sharp point
FoldersTwo-pocket, solid basic colors
MarkersWater-based and non-permanent
Pencil boxesOr zippered pencil pouches
Colored pencilsFull-size and solid colors
ErasersFull-size
No. 2 pencilsPackages of 8-10
Glue Elmer’s white
Glue sticks
Highlighters
Ink pensBlue or black ink only
VEAP, which serves the communities of Edina, Bloomington
and Richfield, cannot accept donations of used items.
Donations should be sent to the VEAP office, 9731 James Ave.
S., Bloomington, by Aug. 21. Collection sites will be set up in the
community by July 29. Volunteer opportunities begin Aug. 1.
Donated items will be distributed during the last week of August.
For more information, contact VEAP at 952-888-9616,
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Edina Community Foundation
Appoints New Executive Director
Richard B. Crockett was recently
named Executive Director of the Edina
Community Foundation.
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How did Edina get its name? Who were some of the leaders
of the community in the late 1800s? What pioneer women
made a significant impact on the community? In what sport
did Edina win its first high school championship?
Six years ago, Kay Wetherall probably wouldn’t have been
able to answer all of those questions. She readily admits that
she didn’t know much about the community’s history when
she started as executive director of the Edina Historical
Society in 1998.
After much on- and off-the-job reading and research, today
she is considered an expert on Edina’s past.
“There is a lot to learn about Edina’s history,” said
Wetherall, a native of Minneapolis. “When I first started, I
thought Edina was just another suburb. No! Edina has a
history and a deep one at that.”
The Edina Historical Society was formed in 1969 by a group
of volunteers committed to preserving the artifacts and
records of the community’s history. In 1991, the Society
opened the Edina Historical Museum at Arneson Acres
Park, 4711 W. 70th St. Marion Hanson was hired that year
as the group’s first executive director.
The Society also operates the Edina Historical Center at
Frank Tupa Park, 4918 Eden Ave. The site includes two
restored historic buildings: the one-room Cahill School built
in 1864 and the Minnehaha Grange Hall built in 1879. The
park and buildings are open by appointment and on special
occasions. In addition, the Cahill School provides a living
museum for
elementary students
who come daily
during the school
year to experience
life in a turn-of-the-
century country
school.
Since Wetherall
joined the Historical
Society six years
ago, hundreds of
photographs and
artifacts have been
accessioned,
publication of a
quarterly newsletter
began, a video has
been produced and
the Society has
become more involved in the local schools. In addition,
Wetherall’s responsibilities have included taking visitors
through the galleries, assisting researchers, mounting
exhibits, overseeing the budget and handling
correspondence for the Board of Directors.
Among Wetherall’s favorite exhibits during her tenure were
those centered on dolls, Edina’s pioneer women, 50 years of
high school athletics and the life of Dave Moore.
“It’s fun knowing so much about a community,” she said. “It
16•SUMMER 2003
Historical Society Executive Director
To Retire
17•SUMMER 2003
is a lovely thing how the community developed – it’s really a
microcosm of the whole Western movement. Edina started
as soon as [the settlers] crossed the river. It was a very
small farm community and has evolved into a very
sophisticated suburb.”
Edina Historical Society board members are very
complimentary of Wetherall’s work. “Kay brings an
enthusiasm to the Edina Historical Society and the history
of Edina,” said President Bob Kojetin. “She is really the first
person to bring the museum and the Society out into the
community. Before Kay came along, the Edina Historical
Society was really just a group of caretakers. Kay brought
our initiatives to the public and got people really excited
about Edina’s history.”
Despite her love for Edina and its rich history, Wetherall, 71,
will retire this month. “I’ve been in the workforce for 55
years,” she said. “I want to write, research and be free. I
want to go to all of [my seven granddaughters’] dances, all
of the girls’ soccer games, all of the girls’ choir concerts.
And I’ll read like a maniac.”
Members of the Edina Historical Society will miss
Wetherall’s dependability and enthusiasm for her work.
“We will miss knowing she is always there, ready to do
whatever she can to further the history of the community”
Kojetin said. “Our next executive director will have big
shoes to fill.”
The Board of Directors is seeking candidates for Wetherall’s
position who are willing to work a minimum of 10 hours per
week at the museum. Qualifications include computer skills
and some experience in business, history or museum science.
Resumes should be sent to Kojetin at the Edina Historical
Museum, 4711 W. 70th St., Edina, MN 55435.
The Edina Historical Museum is open 9 a.m. to noon
Thursdays, 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays and by appointment.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call
952-928-4577.
• Companionship
• Light Housekeeping
• Errands
• Meal Preparation
• Medication Reminders
• Shopping
• OOur CAREGiverssm provide help at home that includes:
952-929-5695
Each Home Instead Senior Care Office is independently owned and operated.
www.homeinstead.com
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Kathleen “Kay” Wetherall will retire
this month as executive director of the
Edina Historical Society.
18•SUMMER 2003
Construction Begins On Indoor
Play Structure
One of the largest indoor play structures in the state will
reach toward the lofty ceiling of Edina’s Edinborough Park.
Installation of the “contained play structure” is scheduled to
begin early this month.
Towering 34 feet above the ground, the play structure,
completely enclosed in nylon mesh netting, will incorporate
more than 40 play elements including seven slides, a trolley
glide, an air bounce, suspension bridge, cargo climbs, tube
crawls and several mazes.
Built by the International Play Company, the 40-by-40-foot
structure has a listed capacity of more than 300 children.
“We have been extremely happy to see how much play
value has been built into this structure,” said Park Manager
Tom Shirley. “For the past 15 years, park patrons have
asked for a larger play area with more amenities. Now they
will have it.”
The play structure is the first major improvement to the
innovative public park since its opening in 1987. The play
structure is being built on the site of the park’s ice skating
rink, which was decommissioned in May. Other park
amenities include a swimming pool, track and exercise area,
amphitheater, grotto and great hall. Some of the most striking
elements of the park are its 6,000 trees, plants and flowers.
“The aesthetics of the park have always been important to
us,” noted Shirley. “We felt it essential that the new
structure blend into the park environment as much as
possible and not detract from the surroundings. The
designers of the new structure did a great job in meeting
that goal.”
The new indoor play structure is scheduled to open Sept. 1.
The structure, like the ice rink that preceeded it, will be
fee-based. Although fees and charges are yet to be
approved by the Park Board and City Council, tentative
plans call for a $4 daily admission.
For more information about the park or the new play
structure, call Shirley, manager of both Edinborough and
Centennial Lakes parks, at 952-832-6788.
19•SUMMER 2003
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 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.
Information: Associate Planner Joyce Repya, 952-826-0462.
Signs
Signs can negatively impact the aesthetics in an area and, in some
cases, pose a safety hazard. As a result, most portable signs are
prohibited in the City of Edina.
Contractors are allowed to erect a portable sign no larger than six
square feet on property where work is being done. However, the
sign must be removed when work is complete. A sign may not be
posted when the contract is signed unless the work commences
immediately. A lawn care company may erect a sign in a yard
being mowed, but it must be taken down before the contractor
leaves for the day.
Real estate signs are not considered “portable” under the Edina City
Code. Those signs are addressed in another section of the Code.
Campaign signs are the only signs allowed in the public right-of-
way. The dates such signs can be put up are restricted and can be
done only with permission of the abutting property owner.
Information: Associate Planner Joyce Repya, 952-826-0462.
Dumping In Parks
Edina’s parks are among the community’s treasures.
Unfortunately, those treasures are sometimes tarnished
when people illegally dump garbage and yard waste there.
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.”
There are four licensed refuse haulers for the City, with which
residents must privately contract. They are Aspen Waste
Systems, 612-884-8000; BFI, Inc., 952-941-5174; Vierkant Disposal,
612-922-2505; and Waste Management, 952-882-2300. Garbage
containers should be set out by the house or garage by 7 a.m. on
pickup day. Containers should be visible from the street on
pickup day, but should not be placed at the curb. After collection,
containers must be stored out of view from the front street.
Residents must also 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.
Information: Park Maintenance Superintendent Vince
Cockriel, 952-826-0305, or Recycling Coordinator Solvei
Wilmot, 952-826-0463.
It’s Not Only Neighborly...
It’s The Law!
20•SUMMER 2003 21•SUMMER 2003
Noted Humanitarian Retires From
Human Relations Commission
By Jessica Shellum
Edina Resident Tom Oye was
recognized by the City and the
Immortal Chaplains Foundation
this year for his lifetime of
humanitarian service.
In honor of his military service,
Oye was awarded the 2003 Prize
for Humanity by the Immortal
Chaplains Foundation. It is an
organization that was inspired by
the deeds of four chaplains – two
protestant pastors, a Catholic
priest and a Jewish rabbi – who
died Feb. 3, 1943, aboard a U.S.
Army troopship that was
torpedoed off the coast of
Greenland. The Foundation’s
objective is to honor individuals,
both past and present, whose
lives exemplify the compassion
of the four “Immortal Chaplains”
against great adversity and
prejudice.
“I do not think I am a colorful
guy, so it is such an honor to
be recognized by the Immortal
Chaplains Foundation for
Humanity,” said Oye.
Oye began public service on Feb. 20, 1942, when he was
drafted to serve in the U.S. military. On his way to the draft
station, his father offered him a
piece of advice. “He said, ‘I want
you to always remember that as a
citizen of this country you owe
everything to preserve your status
as a citizen.”
The day before he was drafted,
U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt
issued Executive Order 9066,
which authorized the designation
of “military areas” in the United
States and allowed the forcible
removal of nearly 110,000 people of
Japanese ancestry. Oye’s parents
and other family members were
among those sent to the
internment camps.
“The country that I was fighting
for would not allow me to see my
family, but I listened to what my
father had told me and
[performed to] the best of my
ability. I was a part of the 100th
Battalion 442nd Regimental Unit,
which was an all Japanese-
American unit,” he said. “We
were honored after the war for
our record in military combat.”
After his years of active duty, Oye continued in the Army
Reserves for more than 25 years. When he retired in 1971,
Oye had received a rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
His military service is just one facet of Oye’s jewel-like life.
Oye went back to college to receive his law degree from
DePaul University, Chicago, in 1948. Then, he went to work
for General Mills as a national credit manager in Illinois. In
1966, General Mills moved him and his family from
Chicago to the Twin Cities.
Oye became involved in the Edina community by joining
the Human Relations Committee for the Edina Public
Schools more than 25 years ago. He continued to be
involved with the schools after he became a member of the
Edina Human Relations Commission by speaking about
racism at the high school.
The Human Relations Commission serves as a human
rights mediator and has worked hand-in-hand with groups
such as VEAP, Women in Transition, and Community of
Nations. In recent years, the Commission developed a bias
hate crime response plan and thoroughly studied the needs
of seniors in the community.
“Tom is a student of racism and has spent his life learning
as much as he could about it,” said current Human
Relations Commission Chairwoman Betsy Flaten. “He takes
his knowledge and teaches those that surround him.”
Oye retired from the Human Relations Commission
early this year. In April, his fellow commissioners
honored him at Edina’s Volunteer Recognition
Reception.
“I was really proud to be a part of the Human Relation
Commission,” said Oye. “One of my proudest moments
was being a part of the committee that established
FamiLink because it was a large project and we put a
lot of work into it.”
FamiLink is a help line for any kind of need. Specifically, the line
is there for people so that they do not get lost in the system.
Since moving to Edina in 1966, Oye has become involved
with many other volunteer activities, including Meals On
Wheels, Edina Resource Center and volunteering at his
church in St. Louis Park.
“I guess you could say volunteering has been my hobby,”
said Oye, with a smile.
Now retired from General Mills and the Edina Human
Relations Commission, Oye relaxes in his Edina home and
does his best to keep in touch with his children. His son
lives in Ohio and his daughter lives in Minnesota.
“Tom is a dear man, with deep convictions and a heart of
gold. He was a representative that the City was proud to
have and will be missed,” said Human Services Coordinator
Susan Heiberg.
For more information on the Human Relations Commission,
contact Heiberg, 952-826-0403.
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Tom Oye is retiring from the Human Relations
Commission after more than 25 years.
23•SUMMER 200322•SUMMER 2003
Artist Overcomes Disability
And Promotes Safety To Edina
Fourth Graders
By Jessica Shellum
By setting an example, Don Bania encourages kids at
Safety Camp to find their “safe zones.”
“I found my safe zone 30 years ago after I was in a
motorcycle accident that left me paralyzed from the neck
down,” said Bania.
The safe zone, according to Bania, is the area within the
rules that are set up by parents, teachers and other adult
role models. The rules are set up to protect children. Bania
believes when children have found the safe zone, they have
the opportunity to discover their abilities.
Bania’s motorcycle accident, just two weeks after his high
school graduation, happened during a ride that was against
his parents’ wishes. As Bania was driving, a drunk driver
pulled out in front of him. Bania was not able to stop
quickly enough to avoid the disastrous accident.
Following the accident, Bania said he could only focus on
things he could not do. After reading a book by a woman
who was also a quadriplegic, but who could draw
by holding a pen or pencil in her teeth, his interest was
sparked.
“I was interested, but I was afraid of what people would
think and did not even attempt to try it,” he said.
It was seven years after reading the book that Bania picked
up a pen and spent time every day at an easel.
“I stopped
focusing
on things
I couldn’t
do and
started
focusing
on the
things I
could do,”
said Bania.
Bania
found his
ability to
create art
by staying
within
his
personal
safe zone
and
focusing
on the
things that
he could
do. Now,
during
Safety Camp, Bania lets children come and stand
around him while he draws. Bania has been drawing for
children for several years during area communities’
Safety Camps.
“I find that Safety Camp is a great way to promote a safe
zone to children,” he said. “I hold the children’s attention
when I come into the room because I am in a wheelchair.
When I have their concentration, I am able to promote
safety within the communities where I speak.”
This year will be the sixth year Safety Camp has been held
in Edina. The event is for children entering fourth grade.
“Last year’s event was a huge success,” said Recreation
Supervisor Susie Miller. “We had such a great turnout that
we are extending the hours of the event and we are hoping
attendance this year surpasses that of last year.”
In addition to the guest speaker, children will have an
opportunity to interact with members of the Edina Police
and Fire departments, see the State Patrol helicopter, take
photos with Sparky and McGruff, and meet Meteorologist
Mike Tsolinas of Fox News 9.
“It is such a fun event because the children get to learn
about safety and hang out with police officers and fire
fighters, but they don’t know who they are until the end of
the day when the officers put on their uniforms,” said Fire
Department Secretary Ruth Schmoll.
Safety Camp will be held rain or shine Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 8
a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Edina Fire Station No. 2, 7335 York Ave.
The cost is $20 per child for the entire day and includes lunch,
snacks, goodie bag and a souvenir T-shirt. Preregistration is
required. There will be a “graduation ceremony” for participants
at 4:10 p.m., which parents are encouraged to attend.
Safety Camp is sponsored by the Park and Recreation
Department and the Edina Fire and Police departments.
To register, call the Park and Recreation Department at
952-826-0367 or visit www.cityofedina.com.
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Don Bania will be the featured speaker at this
year’s Safety Camp. Bania encourages children
to find their safe zones.
25•SUMMER 200324•SUMMER 2003
The City of Edina will celebrate its place as “Hometown
U.S.A.” during the 2003 Independence Day parade.
One of the City’s most popular events of the year, the July 4
grand spectacle attracts thousands of people along the
parade route, which begins near Edina City Hall and winds
its way to the intersection of 50th Street and Halifax Avenue
in downtown Edina.
Recognized as “Hometown Heroes,” members of the “B”ZZ
have been selected as grand marshals. The “B”ZZ is a
group of bubbly senior women whose goal is to entertain
with a variety of line dancing routines. The “B”ZZ have
been performing and teaching in the metropolitan area for
about nine years and have participated in each of Edina’s
July 4 parades. Members of the group are Yvonne Halek,
Marge Macho, Betty Neilsen, Marion Nichols, Jackie
Raasch, Marilyn Rueger and Betty Schoen.
“Since 9/11, public safety and military personnel have again
and again been recognized as heroes,” said Recreation
Supervisor Susie Miller, who serves as staff liaison to the
planning committee. “Those men and women are definitely
heroes. However, there are many more people who make a
difference in the lives of those in our community. This year,
we want to recognize all of our local heroes who contribute
to the high quality of life enjoyed by residents here.”
The generosity of local businesses has allowed the Parade
Planning Committee to expand entertainment for this year’s
event. The parade’s Gold Level Community Patrons include
Calhoun Insurance, Excel Bank, Fairview Southdale Hospital,
Grandview Tire & Auto, Key Cadillac and Oldsmobile and
North American Banking Co.
“Involvement by local businesses helps make the parade bigger
and better each year,” said Laurie Jung, chairwoman the Parade
Planning Committee. “Sponsorships allow the Committee to
bring in the type of entertainment residents and visitors have
come to expect at this parade. This year, we will have the best
entertainment ever.”
Among the featured entertainment will be Cajun Hot Soles,
First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, Heatherton Trail
Sax Quartet, Kramer’s Kracker Jacks, Minnesota Pipes and
Drums, Minnesota Wheelmen, Morris Dancers, Richfield
Edina Will Be ‘Hometown U.S.A.’
July 4,2003
High School marching band, South Central marching band
and Theater Mu.
Many costumed characters will also make appearances. The
characters will also be available before the parade for photos
with children. Madeline will be available at 50th and Wooddale
Avenue. Curious George will pose with fans at 50th and Maple
Road. Corduroy Bear will stop at 50th and Halifax Avenue to
mug for the camera.
As in past years, the Parade Planning Committee is
encouraging some friendly competition among Edina’s
residents and businesses.
Parade units will be judged before the 10 a.m. start of the
parade for their creativity and overall parade impact.
Ribbons will be given to the first-, second- and third-place
winners. The annual essay and coloring contest, “Why I
Should Be the Kid Who Starts the Parade,” will be
conducted beforehand to determine the best person to blow
the whistle at the start of the parade.
“We’ve learned a lot from the past parades. We know what
people really like and want to see,” said Jung. “The parade
won’t be too long and it won’t be too short – we’re sticking with
a manageable number of 80 units. We’re really excited to bring
in new entertainment and feature old favorites. It’s going to be
a great parade that will be remembered.”
After the parade, Independence Day celebrations will continue.
The Edina Historical Society will give tours at Grange Hall and
Old Cahill School in Tupa Park from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. The
Edina Art Center will host an open house from 6:30 to 10:30
p.m. where visitors can view the Student Art Exhibition.
Wrapping up the holiday, the First John Philip Sousa
Memorial Band will perform its traditional July 4 concert in
Rosland Park beginning at 8:45 p.m., followed by a
spectacular display of fireworks at approximately 10 p.m.
For more information, contact Miller, 952-826-0433, or visit
the parade website, www.edinaparade.org.
Ronald McDonald is one of many characters who might make
appearances during the year’s parade.
27•SUMMER 2003
balcony; attached garage; expanded kitchen area with
adjacent library and powder room; and a basement with
family/entertainment room, exercise room and bath.
Custom millwork and wood throughout the addition
complement the original millwork and decorative details of
the home. Designed and executed by a local artist, hand-
carved accents on the kitchen island and basement wet bar
were inspired by detail in the original newel post and dining
room buffet. The renovated kitchen features a painted tin
ceiling, classic drop-front apron sink and reproduction
plumbing fixtures.
The original side-entry porch had been removed from the
house several years ago. Using vintage photographs, M|A|
Peterson Designbuild was able to restore the porch to its
original form and location while providing a smooth visual
transition between the existing and new space.
“This landmark real estate is a significant piece of Edina
settlement history. It has charmed and fascinated people
throughout the metropolitan area who are fond of the
home’s style and architecture and has interested Edina
residents curious about its origins and history,” said Mark
Peterson of M|A|Peterson Designbuild.
“All homes go through changes as they age and the
lifestyle of their owners change. We’re hopeful that the
rehabilitation and changes made to the Baird home ensure
it remains a viable private residence and prominent part of
Edina’s history for the next 100 years. … Working with a
home tied so deeply to Edina’s history demanded attention
to detail, imagination and innovation in both the design and
construction phases. It is a real privilege to be part of
Edina’s rich history with our association to this home.”
For more information on the Edina Heritage Award or
activities of the Heritage Preservation Board, contact
Associate Planner Joyce Repya, 952-826-0462.
26•SUMMER 2003
The City of Edina recently presented the first Edina
Heritage Award to the owners of the historic Baird House
and the company that built an addition to the home in 2002.
The Heritage Preservation Board developed the award to
recognize outstanding contributions to the preservation,
rehabilitation, restoration and use of Edina’s heritage
resources. The Board unanimously selected the Baird
House at 4400 W. 50th St. for the 2003 award because of the
homeowners’ careful attention in building a modern
addition to the historic home.
“The Baird House addition is a shining example of how an
addition to an historic structure can seamlessly integrate
the new with the old structure, creating a harmonious and
livable home while maintaining a distinct visual separation
on the exterior,” said Board Member Ann Swenson at the
May award presentation.
Constructed in the 19th century by Edina settler George
Baird, the elegant red brick farmhouse has been home to
five families over the years. Owned today by Brad and
Arlene Forrest, the home is listed on the National Register
of Historic Places.
After the Forrests purchased the home, they made the
decision to construct an addition, respecting the history
and significance of the home while making it more livable
for their modern lifestyle. The 3,500-square-foot addition,
designed and constructed by M|A|Peterson Designbuild,
complements the original home and features a master suite
including a soaking tub, walk-in closet, laundry room and
Historic Baird House Receives
Edina’s First Heritage Award
The soda fountain from the 1960s addition to the house was
refurbished and installed in the new lower level of the home.
As a tribute to the history and legacy of the home, a new
mirror was etched to read “Baird House 1886–2002.”
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City Of Edina Remembers Bloom
Edina native and NBC News
correspondent David Bloom died in
early April from a blood clot while
reporting on the war from the Iraqi
desert.
The 39-year-old co-anchor of the
weekend “Today” show was
traveling with troops about 25 miles
south of Baghdad when he suddenly
collapsed, said Allison Gollust, a
spokeswoman for NBC News. He
was airlifted to a nearby field medical unit, where he was
pronounced dead from a pulmonary embolism. His death
was not combat related.
Bloom lived in the New York area with his wife, Melanie,
and three daughters. He had been on assignment in Iraq
for several weeks, reporting from the middle of desert
sand storms and while columns of military vehicles
rumbled toward Baghdad.
His televised debate triumph launched his career as a
reporter that began in La Crosse, Wis., and later Wichita,
Kan. He moved to Miami as an investigative journalist for
NBC in 1989. Bloom’s work took him to Chicago, Los
Angeles and Washington, where he served as White
House correspondent, and finally to New York as the co-
anchor of “Today.” Bloom was a familiar face on morning
and nightly news broadcasts, bringing live coverage from
the wars in Bosnia and Somalia, from Ground Zero in New
York, as well as Israel, Kuwait and Pakistan.
“Since David’s death, the City has received countless
e-mail messages from people in Edina and around the
country who were stunned by news of his death,” said
Mayor Dennis Maetzold. “Through the television screen,
he touched thousands of people with his boyish charm,
intelligent reporting and zest for life.” One message sent
to the City read, ‘David was undoubtedly one of the
brightest, intelligent, articulate, passionate, compassionate
and highly respected ‘reporter’s reporter’ with so much
promise … his loss is great and is greatly felt.’
“Here in Edina, people not only remember him for his
meteoric rise in journalism, but for his days in the community.
He was one of Edina’s sons. We fondly remember him as a
neighbor, friend, classmate, student and hockey player, among
other things. We smiled each time David proudly announced
on national television that he was from Edina, Minnesota. He
never forgot Edina and we will never forget him.”
Bloom is survived by wife Melanie; his three daughters,
Christine, Nicole and Ava; his parents Harold and Laura, of
Edina; and his brothers John, of Edina, and Jim, of Seattle, Wash.
Bloom’s friends have established a trust for the benefit of his
three daughters. Donations in memoriam may be sent to:
David Bloom Children’s Trust, c/o Latham & Watkins, 885
3rd Ave., Suite 1000, New York, NY 10022.
29•SUMMER 2003
Two City Employees Called Into
Military Action
28•SUMMER 2003
Two City of Edina employees have been called to active
duty in connection with Operation Enduring Freedom.
Police Officer Ken Marks was called to active duty with the
U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) on October 15, 2001. Since
then, he has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant
Colonel.
After Marks spent eight years on active duty with USMC,
including service in the Persian Gulf Conflict, the City of
Edina hired Marks as a police officer in February 1995.
Marks quickly established himself as an outstanding police
officer and a tremendous asset to the City of Edina. He put
his military training to use by volunteering to serve on the
Police Department’s Emergency Response Team. He
became a Field Training Officer, assuming the
responsibility to train new officers as they began their law
enforcement careers with the Edina Police Department. He
was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in 1998 for
his life-saving efforts on an attempted suicide call.
Marks showed his commitment to the youth of the
community by volunteering to teach Drug Abuse
Resistance Education (DARE). He demonstrated a flair
for connecting with the kids and received excellent reviews
from the students and teachers. He also presented the
Junior Police program to second graders and assisted with
the Bicycle Safety program. Marks was named the Edina
Crime Prevention Fund Police Officer of the Year in 1999 in
recognition of his dedication and outstanding work.
Property Appraiser Moreau Sankey was called into active
duty earlier this year when his Army unit was deployed.
He was hired by the City of Edina in October 1980.
Sankey specializes in appraisals of commercial, industrial,
apartment and various other residential property types.
Prior to being employed by the City of Edina, Sankey was
a licensed real estate salesperson from 1975 to 1977 with
Bermel Smaby Realty, Inc. and also worked for O.J. Janski
& Associates Appraisers from 1977 to 1980.
“The City is exceedingly proud of the sacrifice these
employees and others have made on our behalf,” said
City Manager Gordon Hughes. “We hope that all American
service men and women will be able to come home as
soon as possible.”
The City of Edina will attempt to send copies of its
newsletters, About Town and AboutBusiness, to troops. If
you would like a copy sent to a family member, friend or co-
worker who has been deployed, please contact
Communications Director Jennifer Wilkinson, 952-832-6063.
In order to mail the newsletters, the City must be given the
person’s exact military address.
David Bloom
smallpox can protect workers from getting smallpox, even if
they have been exposed to the disease. We are trying to be
strategic about who is vaccinated in these first two phases.
People who would be first-responders, care providers,
investigators or vaccinators were vaccinated in Phase I.”
According to MDH figures, as of early May, 1,475 people in
Minnesota had been vaccinated, including Bloomington
Public Health and Fairview Southdale Hospital staff
members. In addition to giving its staff the option of being
vaccinated, Fairview Southdale Hospital has designated a
response team to deal with a potential outbreak and is
providing additional training to its employees.
Nationwide, nearly 36,217 civilian people had been
vaccinated at press time. Just four other states had more
people vaccinated than Minnesota. Those states are Florida,
Ohio, Tennessee and Texas. Just 488 people volunteered
for the vaccination in Iowa, 734 in South Dakota and 749 in
Wisconsin.
Phase II of the vaccination program will include a larger
number of health care workers, public health workers, first
responders and public safety personnel, as well as
“essential” government employees. The Minnesota
Department of Health is awaiting guidance from the federal
government on when to expand the vaccination campaign
to Phases II and III.
Denise Dunn, Bloomington Public Health’s Emergency
Preparedness coordinator, said that if a case of smallpox
were reported, a “ring” vaccination would begin. First, the
people exposed to the person with the disease would be
vaccinated, then the people who had been exposed to those
people, and so on. If there were a mass outbreak,
vaccination clinics would be set up. Dunn has identified
four possible vaccination clinic sites in Edina.
“In the aftermath of the events of September and October,
2001, the U.S. government is taking precautions to be ready
to deal with a nationwide smallpox preparedness program
to protect Americans against smallpox as a biological
weapon,” Dunn said. “People should know two things: there
is a detailed nationwide smallpox preparedness program to
protect Americans against smallpox and there is enough
smallpox vaccine to vaccinate everyone who would need it
in the event of an emergency.”
For more information on the national voluntary smallpox
vaccination program, contact Dunn at Bloomington Public
Health, 952-563-4962; MDH Smallpox Vaccination Hotline,
1-800-657-3903; or Centers for Disease Control Hotline, 1-
888-246-2675.
31•SUMMER 200330•SUMMER 2003
Voluntary Smallpox Vaccination
Program Begins
To protect against a potential terrorist threat, a national
voluntary smallpox vaccination program is under way.
Smallpox is a highly contagious disease. In most cases,
smallpox is spread from one person to another by infected
saliva droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact. The
first symptoms of smallpox occur about 10 days after a
person has been exposed to the disease. The initial
symptoms include the sudden onset of high fever, fatigue,
headache and severe backache. People with smallpox will
develop a severe infectious rash, usually on the face, arms
and legs two to four days after the first symptoms appear.
The rash will last from two to four weeks. A person does
not become contagious until the rash appears. By then, an
infected person is quite ill and generally not traveling or
participating in activities.
There is no cure for smallpox. The disease kills 30
percent of people who contract it. Although most patients
with smallpox recover, those who survive may experience
long-standing health problems such as scarring and
blindness.
Routine smallpox vaccinations in the U.S. ceased in the
1970s. The last naturally occurring case of smallpox was
reported in 1977. It is feared, however, that the disease has
been weaponized by another country and could be used
against the U.S. population. According to a statement
issued last year by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC),
“The probability of an intentional release of the smallpox
virus is low, but since the consequences of an outbreak
would be great, we must be prepared.”
U.S. President George W.
Bush announced the
three-phase voluntary
vaccination program Dec.
13, 2002. At that time,
500,000 selected military
personnel were vaccinated
and Phase I began. Phase
I, administered in
Minnesota in February,
included the vaccinations
of a limited number of
health care workers, public
health workers and
selected public safety
personnel.
The vaccine against smallpox is considered very safe for
most people. However, since the vaccine contains “live”
vaccinia virus, closely related to the virus that causes
smallpox, there is a risk of complications for people with
certain physical conditions. In addition, the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention has reported that careful
monitoring of vaccinations given over recent months has
suggested that the vaccine might cause heart inflammation,
inflammation of the membrane covering the heart and/or a
combination of the two problems.
“If there is an outbreak, it will be important that some
people have already been vaccinated,” said Debra Ehret,
the Minnesota Department of Health’s (MDH) metro
public health preparedness planner. “Vaccine against
A bifurcated needle is used to
poke through the surface of the
skin during smallpox vaccination.
33•SUMMER 2003
be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Arneson Acres Terrace
Room, 4709 W. 70th St. The symposium is free and open to
the public. Topics will include: Buckthorn Biology, Ecology
& Control; Edina’s Buckthorn Abatement Program;
Cultivating Native Orchids and Other Wildflowers in Your
Woodland; Landscaping and Maintaining your Woodland
after Banishing Buckthorn; Shoreline Restoration: Stream
Banks, Ponds and Lakes; Rain Gardens to Trap Runoff and
Filter out Pollution; Landscaping with Perennials, Grasses
and Wildflowers; and Woodland Management After
Buckthorn Removal.
To assist in buckthorn identification, the LWVE and EGC
will distribute bright pink door hangers to those residents
in selected neighborhoods where buckthorn has been
identified. Some residents may have too much buckthorn to
set out in four-foot bundles for their local waste hauler.
Edina residents with large quantities of buckthorn can
participate in the October Buckthorn Abatement program
and take advantage of the special buckthorn curbside pick-
up rate of $18 per crushed cubic yard, which is offered by
Top Notch Tree Service. To schedule the buckthorn
curbside pick-up service, call the Top Notch Tree Service
at 763-253-0027 and identify yourself as a participant in the
Edina Buckthorn Abatement program.
The City of Edina will be working to remove buckthorn in
various City parks. If you would like to volunteer to assist
in this effort, contact City Forester Tom Horwath at
952-828-0308. Individuals as well as groups such as Scouts,
school and other community groups are encouraged to
volunteer. Last year, the Kelodale Garden Club (an EGC
affiliate) removed buckthorn on the Taylor Knoll at the
Edina Art Center. The Braemar Men’s Club also removed
buckthorn in Braemar Park. With more than 500 acres of
infested public woodland in Edina, many more volunteers
are needed.
For more information, contact Horwath, 952-828-0308, or
visit the League of Women Voters of Edina’s website,
www.lwvmn.org/LocalLeagues/Edina.
32•SUMMER 2003
October Is Buckthorn Abatement
Month In Edina
Because of the success of Edina’s 2002 Buckthorn Abatement
Week, the program has been expanded from the southwest
quadrant of the community to the entire city. In addition, the
City will designate the entire month of October for abatement,
not just one week.
All across the metropolitan area, cities and residents are joining
forces to rid their communities of this noxious weed, the sale of
which is now prohibited in Minnesota. What things are
negatively impacted by the presence of buckthorn?
Children – Buckthorn berries, bark and roots are toxic. The
berries cause severe cramping and diarrhea in humans. Keep
small children out of areas where buckthorn berries fall, as the
blue/black berries may be mistaken for blueberries and
accidentally eaten.
Birds – Buckthorn is a starvation food for birds. They eat
buckthorn berries only when food sources are low, especially in
late winter as they cause diarrhea and weakening. The blue
stains on houses and sidewalks are the result of droppings from
birds that ate buckthorn berries. Bird numbers decline in areas
infested by buckthorn, since food sources and nesting sites are
greatly reduced.
Wildflowers and the next generation of trees - Buckthorn
has an allelopathic chemical in its roots that suppresses the
growth of surrounding plants, much like black walnuts do.
Between this and being shaded out by buckthorn, wildflowers
are suppressed and native tree seedlings don’t grow well. When
the mature trees in a buckhorn-infested woodland reach the
end of their lifespan, there are few replacement trees. Because
buckthorn is toxic, wildlife do not eat it and disproportionately
browse the native shrubs and wildflowers, further reducing the
few native plants that remain. Eventually, all that is left is a
buckthorn monoculture.
Fall color – Staying green an average of 58 days longer than
our native species, common buckthorn provides little fall color.
Spreading from urban areas, buckthorn is replacing our urban
woodlands and their beautiful fall colors. Buckthorn seeds came
from ornamental buckthorn hedges planted before the shrubs
were banned. These hedges must now be removed. Nearly all
deciduous trees and shrubs that are still green in October and
November are buckthorn. Watch for it this fall as you drive
around the metropolitan area.
Privacy – Homeowners who maintain buckthorn thickets for
privacy should consider conifers, which offer much better
privacy, as they stay green all year.
Education is an important component of Edina’s 2003
Buckthorn Abatement program. The League of Women Voters
of Edina (LWVE) and Edina Garden Council (EGC) will
co-sponsor a July 9 symposium titled “Landscaping and
Maintaining your Natural Area.“ The free symposium will be
held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Arneson Acres Terrace Room,
4709 W. 70th St. The symposium is free and open to the public.
Topics will include: Buckthorn Biology, Ecology & Control;
Edina’s Buckthorn Abatement Program; Cultivating Native
Orchids and Other Wildflowers in Your Woodland; Landscaping
and Maintaining your Woodland after Banishing Buckthorn; co-
sponsor a July 9 symposium titled “Landscaping and
Maintaining your Natural Area.” The free symposium will
Buckthorn has been declared a noxious weed by the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources. Mayor Dennis Maetzold has
declared Oct. 5-11 as Buckthorn Abatement Week in the
community.
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35•SUMMER 2003
In 2001, Blanchard was chosen, after serving two
consecutive years as vice-chairwoman, as the United States
Golf Association (USGA) Women’s Committee chairwoman.
“This was a great honor for me because I was chosen by
my peers to represent a women’s sport that I am very
passionate about,” said Blanchard.
The Women’s Committee represents the USGA in all matters
related to women’s golf and its members are the leaders of
women’s amateur golf in the United States. The Committee
conducts the U.S. Women’s Amateur and the U.S. Women’s
Open. In addition, it conducts the Curtis Cup Match and the
Women’s World Amateur Team Championship.
In January, Blanchard ended her role as the USGA
Women’s Committee chairwoman. This year will be the
first time in 20 years that she will miss the U.S. Women’s
Open. She doesn’t want the new chairwoman to feel as
though she is breathing down her shoulder.
One of the highlights from her two years as chairwoman
was a trip that she and her husband took to Malaysia for
the USGA to the World Amateur Team Championship.
“It was amazing to see a golf course in the middle of a
jungle. There were ‘Monkey Domain’ signs posted around
the course to let you know that the monkeys might take
your valuables,” she said.
Even though the positions Blanchard has held for the
USGA are volunteer positions, she feels it was time well
spent because she was able to go to places that she may
have never been before.
This summer Blanchard looks forward to spending her time
on the golf course in her golf leagues and being at home in
Edina. She might even work to improve her handicap.
“I don’t know what it is now, but at my best I had a 15
handicap. That was a long-time ago,” she said with a smile.
For more information on Braemar Golf Course,
call 952-826-6791.
34•SUMMER 2003
Blanchard’s Love Affair Lasts More
Than 30 Years
By Jessica Shellum
Cora Jane Blanchard’s passion for golf is a love story.
Girl meets boy (who plays golf). Girl learns the sport and
impresses boy. Girl and boy fall in love.
At first sight, a young Cora Jane Smith fell in love with a
boy who worked at Dairy Queen during a hot summer
some years ago. “I had a lot of Dairy Queen that summer,”
she said.
The boy who worked at Dairy Queen was very busy, she
was told by friends, but Blanchard knew he played hockey
during the winter months and golfed during the summer
months.
“I knew I was not going to play hockey, so I decided to take
up golf,” she recalled. “Then, during my junior year at
Southwest Minneapolis High School, I joined the first-ever
women’s golf team.”
Blanchard fondly remembers her first golf tournament --
Southwest played South High at the Hiawatha Golf Course.
She scored a 108 for nine holes of golf.
Years after they met, Smith married Jim Blanchard -- the
boy that worked at Dairy Queen. He became a pilot and
spent four years in the Navy. The two continued to golf
throughout their years together and when they settled
down in Edina they became members of Braemar
Golf Course.
“It had always
been a social
outlet for me,”
said Blanchard.
In 1979,
Blanchard
was chosen
as chairwoman
of the host
committee
for the U.S.
Women’s
Amateur
Public Links
Championship
at Braemar
Golf Course.
For the first time,
Blanchard
became involved in the golfing community as an
administrator.
Braemar Golf Course Manager John Valliere said, “This
was a very big and exciting event for our golf course. It is a
national event and she had a huge responsibility. She was
chosen because of her high involvement at Braemar Golf
Course.”
In the years proceeding the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public
Links Championship, Blanchard served on its committee at a
national level. From 1991 to 1997, she served as chairwoman.
Cora Jane, General Chairwoman, is
congratulated by Mr. Frank Tatum,
President U.S.G.A., during the 1979 U.S.
Women’s Amateur Public Links
Championship.
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37•SUMMER 2003
“For example, in the mosaics class I teach, we don’t rely on
machines, so people can do this type of work at home with
hands and simple tools. The tiles are hand made from start
to finish.”
Adama is currently teaching several classes at the Edina
Art Center. He has classes scheduled throughout the
summer months for both children and adults.
“In addition to his hand-building excellence, many of our
students and instructors have been impressed by his superb
throwing skills,” said Harriet Campe, an Edina resident and
fellow Art Center faculty member. “Just look at his 25-pound
bowl and his two-foot high vase and you will be amazed, too!”
Visit the Art Center’s website, www.EdinaArtCenter.com, for
a complete listing or call 612-915-6600 for information, to
request a class schedule or register for classes. The Edina Art
Center is located on the northwest corner of Rosland Park
(formerly Lake Cornelia Park.)
36•SUMMER 2003
Adama Sow Adds International
Perspective To Edina Art Center
Faculty
By Kathleen Sovell and Diane Long
A new addition to the Edina Art Center faculty has added
an international perspective to art and activities there.
Adama Sow, a ceramist from Senegal, has worked with clay
for the past 19 years. In his country, women in the villages
often do traditional pottery within the family. “My big
brother is the one who gave me a taste for pottery. He’s
been a ceramist for 35 years,” Sow said.
Obtaining his diploma in ceramics in 1986 in Senegal, he
had his first exhibition at the historic museum of Goree in
Dakar in 1989. A year later, he offered classes to both
adults and children.
In 1995, to further his education, Sow attended the Fuh
Ceramics School in Hor Grenz Hausen in Germany.
He has exhibited his work in the International Fair in
Dakar, Senegal; the Frankfurt Fair in Germany and the
Tunipier Expo in Lyon, France.
In 2000, he traveled to the Indian Ocean island Reunion to
take part in a large exhibit where he showed his work with
Claude Berlie Caillet, a well-known French ceramist, and
Michelle Delprete, a Swiss painter.
The next year, Sow came to the United States, choosing an
artist’s cooperative in Houston, Texas, for his first stop,
where he exhibited his work and taught children. “I love
kids,” he said. “They have a lot of imagination and
originality.
They make
extraordinary
things -- always
unique works
of art
impossible to
duplicate.”
Adama visited
art centers in
the Twin Cities
area last fall
searching for a
place to create,
teach and share
knowledge with
other clay
artists. He felt
the warmth and
openness of the
Edina Art
Center and applied to teach there.
“Now, I am working at the Edina Art Center, which I
really enjoy. People are very welcoming. Artists help each
other out. I feel at home. I teach mosaic, sculpture and
pottery on the wheel. I love teaching. I try to bring
African techniques, which are different than those in the
[United States] or Europe and mix them together. It is
interesting to see what happens with this mix of
cultures,” Adama said.
Adama Sow creates large ceramic pieces at
EAC to the delight of students and faculty.
His two-foot high vase features meaningful,
hand-carved African symbols.
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Coverage for backups of sewers and basement drains is
available, but not always included in a basic homeowner’s
insurance policy.
In addition, insurance companies that do offer the
protection have varying amounts of coverage.
Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if you
have coverage for backups.
If you do not have coverage, consider adding to your
policy because in most cases the City’s insurance will
not cover your damages in the event of an incident.
For moreinformation, call Edina Public Works, 952-826-0311.
DOYOU
have insurance for
sewer back-ups?
Check your policy today!
39•SUMMER 2003
City To Host Two Summer Races
Runners will take flight this fall during Edina’s
Great Duck Chase.
Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave.
S., will host the first-ever Great Duck
Chase Sunday, Sept. 28. The event will
feature a 10 a.m. 5K run/walk and 10:45
a.m. Fun Run. Starting at the Park
Centrum, the 5K run will be held within
the confines of the park on pavement. It is
a flat two-loop run. The 1.5-mile Fun Run,
for kids and adults, is one loop of the 5K run.
“Every day, I look out of my office window and see
people walking and jogging in the park. A local race in the
park seemed like a natural fit,” said Centennial Lakes Park
Special Events Coordinator Stacy Maas. “The Great Duck
Chase will be an event for families that bolsters self-
confidence, physical fitness and positive attitudes.”
In addition to an 18-hole putting course, paddleboats,
amphitheater and trails, Centennial Lakes Park is home to
more than 200 Mallard ducks. The event name is a spoof on
the birds in the park.
All participants will receive a Great Duck Chase T-shirt. Those
competing in the 5K race will be given water at the halfway point
of the race. Food and beverages will be served after the events.
Registration forms are available online,
www.centenniallakespark.com, or at Centennial Lakes Park.
Cost is $15 for the 5K race and $5 for the Fun Run. Those
registered for the 5K race do not have to pay for
the Fun Run if they want to participate in both
events. There is an additional cost for in-
person registration the day of the event.
The Great Duck Chase will be the second
race in the community this summer. The
City of Edina in August will host the
IronKids Bread Triathlon for the third
consecutive year. Children from all over
the country ages 7 to 14 will swim, bike and
run in and around Rosland Park Sunday, Aug. 17.
Children participating in the event will be broken
into two groups: a junior division for boys and girls ages 7 to
10 and a senior division for those ages 11 to 14. Sanctioned
by USA Triathlon, the junior IronKids Bread Triathlon
includes a 100-meter swim, 3.1-mile bike ride and 0.6-mile
run. The senior competition includes a 200-meter swim, 6.2-
mile bike ride and 1.2-mile run. Children can participate as
individuals or in relays. Relay teams can be all girls, all boys
or co-ed.
All entries must be mailed with fee and proofs of purchase
to IronKids Bread Triathlon, P.O. Box 241, Sylvester, Ga.
31791-0241 before Aug. 1. Applications will be accepted
after the deadline for an additional fee. Cost for individuals
is $20 plus two proofs of purchase from IronKids Bread.
Cost for relays is $30 plus six proofs of purchase. Official
entry forms are available through the City’s Park and
Recreation Department, 4801 W. 50th St., or the Edina
Aquatic Center, 4300 W. 66th St.
38•SUMMER 2003
City Of Edina To Flush Hydrants
In September,October
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 four
weeks beginning Monday, Sept. 22. Random hydrants are
also flushed throughout the year as weather and water
demand allows.
Hydrant flushing with take place 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday
through Friday. In an attempt to minimize the impact on
residents, hydrants will be flushed as follows:
Sept. 22-26 East of Minnesota Highway 100 and
North of MN Highway 62
Sept. 29-Oct. 3 West of Minnesota Highway 100 and
North of Minnesota Highway 62
Oct. 6-10 West of Minnesota Highway 100 and
South of Minnesota Highway 62
Oct. 13-17 East of Minnesota Highway 100 and
South of Minnesota Highway 62
Due to hydrant flushing, it is inevitable that some
residents will receive rust-colored water, which can
stain laundry but is safe to drink. Residents may also
receive rust-colored water when areas adjacent to
theirs are being flushed. Residents should check that
water coming into the house is clear before doing
laundry during the flushing period.
The flushing schedule is approximate. For an
up-to-date flushing schedule, call the Public Works
Hotline at 952-826-0375. For more information,
contact Utilities Superintendent Roger Glanzer,
952-826-0311, or visit www.cityofedina.com.
You may qualify for up to $20,000 to make
repairs or necessary improvements to your
Edina home through the Hennepin County
Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program.
This program provides deferred repayment
funds on a first-come-first-served basis to
people who can show financial need. If you would like to receive information,
income guidelines, qualification summaries, interest rates, and applications,
please call Associate Planner Joyce Repya at the
Edina Planning Department, (952) 826-0462.
Dozens of Edina residents have protected the value
of their homes by using this program. If your primary
residence is located in Edina and needs repair or
structural improvements, please give Joyce a call.
Home Rehab Funds
for Qualified Edina Home Owners
CITY OF EDINA
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Edina, Minnesota 2003
41 •SUMMER 2003
Recycling and Solid Waste Commission and pointed out
his volunteer service to Edina Public Schools, St. Alban’s
Church and Edina Morningside Community Church.
“Bob Reid is an exemplary volunteer,” Maetzold said.
“His days are filled with volunteer work from dawn until
dusk and beyond. He will be sorely missed.”
Maetzold presented four other Mayor’s Commendations
during the evening Volunteer Recognition Reception, held
in Edinborough Park’s Great Hall.
Mayor’s Service Club Commendation
Awarded to a club or organization that has made
outstanding contributions to the community through its
regular activities or through special projects.
Edina Federated Women’s Club was this year’s recipient of the
2003 award. Since the club was founded in 1969, members have
always let its motto, “Founded on Friendship … Strengthened in
Service,” set the direction for activities. For 24 years, the club’s
largest philanthropic activity was Santa House, a non-commercial
holiday experience that provided children, their parents and
groups an opportunity to enjoy the traditions of the season in a
festively decorated Braemar Golf Course Clubhouse. In 2000, the
Feds began a new tradition – Feds’ Fest. The evening cabaret
includes silent and live auctions, dinner and entertainment and an
opportunity for the community to gather to show their support
for organizations benefiting from the event. Over the years, the
club has donated nearly $1 million to local organizations,
including the Edina Art Center, Edina Senior Center, N.C. Little
Memorial Hospice, Southdale YMCA and Edina Public Schools.
Mayor’s Outstanding Senior Commendation
Awarded to a senior citizen for outstanding volunteer
service within the community.
Jack Barstow was presented the 2003 award. Touching the
lives of hundreds of children, Barstow helped implement
the school district’s elementary science volunteer program
and two science kits for the Community Resource Pool. He
completes more than 10 classroom presentations each
school year and has served as a judge for some history
events in the schools. “Jack is passionate about his
volunteer work and has continued to support the
Community Resource Pool with enthusiasm,” Maetzold
said. “With the budget cuts affecting the schools, it is
important for teachers to be able to rely on qualified, eager
volunteers like Jack Barstow.”
Mayor’s Youth Commendation
Awarded to an outstanding young person who has
demonstrated a commitment to improving the quality of life
in the community.
This year’s award was given to both Paige Backenstose and
Lindsey Vance.
Paige was the first ninth-grader to letter in community
service through Edina High School, which required
completing 120 volunteer hours. She volunteered many of
her hours at Fairview Southdale Hospital where she
delivers flowers to patients, helps nurses, discharges
patients and completes paperwork. Paige’s other volunteer
activities include leading a small children’s group at her
40•SUMMER 2003
City Thanks Volunteers At 24th
Annual Reception
Instead of giving acceptance
speeches, Bob Reid encouraged the
audience at Edina’s annual Volunteer
Recognition Reception to buy used
books, visit the local museum and
recycle.
Reid, who recently moved to Wausau,
Wis., received recognition at the April
22 Volunteer Recognition Reception
from the Edina Historical Society,
Friends of the Edina Library,
Recycling and Solid Waste
Commission and Edina City Council.
For three years, Reid single-handedly
managed the Historical Society’s
unique book sale at the Edina
Historical Museum, 4711 W. 70th St.
He also conducted approximately 45
oral interviews with citizens
knowledgeable about the community’s
history. Reid also generously gave of his
time to the Friends of the Edina Library’s April and
October book sales.
Reid, a recycling zealot, retired earlier this year from
the Recycling and Solid Waste Commission after serving
as a member since 1974. He was a constant volunteer at
a recycling drop-off site in the 1970s and helped develop
a pilot program in 1986 to collect household recyclables
on a monthly basis.
For his tireless work in the community, Mayor Dennis
Maetzold presented Reid with one of the most prestigious
City awards – the Mayor’s Individual Service
Commendation, awarded to an individual for outstanding
and exceptional volunteer service to the community at
large. During the award presentation, Maetzold
commented on Reid’s extraordinary work for the Edina
Historical Society, Friends of the Edina Library and
Edina Historical Society President Bob Kojetin presents Bob Reid with a framed print of
an Edina scene during Edina’s Volunteer Recognition Reception.
(continued on next page)
43 •SUMMER 2003
“Volunteerism is very important to the City of Edina,”
Maetzold said. “Thousands of hours given by volunteers
help make our community the premier place for living,
learning, raising families and doing business.”
For more information on the All-Volunteer Awards Reception
or the mayor’s commendations, contact Human Services
Coordinator Susan Heiberg, 952-826-0403.
42•SUMMER 2003
church, delivering Thanksgiving meals to families in need,
participating in Meals on Wheels and other food-delivery
programs and Samaritan Purse. She was an active member
of the Student Leadership Council at South View Middle
School in raising money for such organizations as Baby’s
Space: A Place to Grow, Children’s Hospitals for the Teddy
Bear Challenge and People Serving People.
Lindsey, A Better Chance student from Beloit, Wis.,
recently graduated from Edina High School. While a
student, Lindsey was involved in Key Club, Multi-Cultural
Club, Target Leadership and Improv, among other things.
Lindsey served on the board of directors of Key Club, a
student-led service club sponsored by the Edina Kiwanis
Club. During her last year of high school, she served as
president of the Multi-Cultural Club, leading the group as
they presented the most successful all-school assembly to
date to celebrate diversity. In Target Leadership, Lindsey
took part in First Friends, a network of students who
connect with new students to provide them with a
comfortable transition to a new school environment. Since
her sophomore year, Lindsey was involved in Improv, a
group of students who address real teenage situations such
as alcohol and drug abuse through improvisational acting.
Mayor’s Community Involvement Commendation
Awarded to a City employee for outstanding volunteer
service to the community, above and beyond his or her
position with the City.
This year, Assistant City Manager Eric Anderson received
the award. Anderson is an active member of the Edina
Morningside Rotary Club. He received the 1999-2000
Rookie of the Year award from the club in recognition
of outstanding service. For the years 2001-2002, he was
given the club’s highest honor, Rotarian of the Year.
Earlier this year, he received the Distinguished Service
Award at the Rotary District Conference for his
leadership and excellence in fund-raising for the
local club.
Many service organizations also recognized their own
exemplary volunteers at the reception. Awards were
presented to: Amy Demarest, Edina Girls Athletic
Association; Herb Telshaw and Dick Lund, Edina Golden
K Kiwanis Club; Tom Oye, Edina Human Relations
Commission; Jack Cracraft, Edina Lions Club; Marjorie
Douville, Edina Police Department; Joyce Williams,
Edina Senior Center; Florence Norback, Edina Woman’s
Club; Maria Frank, Mary Holman, Danette Kamrath, Jim
Lincoln, Holly Schaefer, John Wagner, Muriel Wagner,
Fairview Southdale Hospital; Emily Hite, July 4 Parade
Planning Committee; Carol Frisch, League of Women
Voters of Edina; Rich Meyer and Fritz Arnason,
Southdale YMCA; Bill Sjolund, Southdale Y’s Men’s
Club; Backenstose, Lizzie Nordquist and Deadria
Harrington, South View Middle School Youth
Development/Youth Service; Gene Andersen, Edina Art
Center; Sally Lareau and Bert Ledder, Edina Chemical
Health Partners; Karen Bohn, Chuck Mooty and Clint
Schroeder, Edina Community Foundation; Maureen
Menden, Edina Family Center; Linda Wauters, Edina
Federated Women’s Club and Janet Chandler, Edina
Garden Council.
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