No preview available
 /
     
Newspaper Clipping - Newspaper Clipping Scan - Ansaris Mediteranean Grill Fire - 2/10/2011Latest fire hits restaurant in Eagan; Red Cross feeling strained By KATIE HUMPHREY and PAUL WALSH Star Tribune staff writers A wave of fires is keeping local fire- fighters busy and sapping the resources of the local American Red Cross. The latest blaze struck Ansari's Med- iterranean Grill and Lounge in Eagan about 4:45 a.m., said Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott. It occurred while the res- taurant was empty; no one was injured. The Eagan fire didn't require Red Cross assistance, but just the day before, a blaze displaced dozens of people at a Bloomington apartment building. That was just one of six fires where the agen- cy helped victims within 24 hours. The other five were house fires. Meeting the needs of everyone so far this year has taxed the relief agency's budget and prompted a call for help. "There's a need right now and we're hoping the community will step in with some extra support to fill that need," said Phil Hansen, CEO of the Twin Cit- ies Chapter of the American Red Cross. "If this pace keeps up, we're going to ex- ceed funds available to do this." Fire continues onB5 ► Lure gave the Jenna Ross • 612.673-7168 y So far — to . rnment part- rovide a pub- 2nue stream. s too early to i broader um- uld have tax- -ou1d assume existing facil- is being seen st for the Vi- rtant issue," ey, the Vi- ent for pub- dium devel- to a govern - run by the irk Authori- lted in 2006 t authorized uthority is a rd appoint- r, Hennepin .apolis. The eats on the ounty-wide les the bulk lgs stadium feated in a would have 13-member n Authori- aised taxes t authority i the sports facilities commission, which owns the Metrodome. Ted Johnson, a senior vice president with the Minneso- ta Timberwolves, said a broad- er stadium agency would ben- efit the public. "The state Leg- islature over 18 years has faced a stadium or arena issue [every year], and could face it for an- other 20 years," he said, as ex- isting stadiums need remod- eling. "I don't think that's so much [of] a leap," he said. The proposal could prove hard to resist for cash -strapped local governments. Minneapo- lis still owes $57.5 million on Target Center. Two years ago, St. Paul tried to get the state to forgive its $48 million loan on the Xcel Center but failed. David Olson, president of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, said Mondale re- cently expressed his frustra- tions with the existing situa- tion. "You got the Saints coming, you got the Timberwolves lin- ing up," Olson said. "I'm sure [Mondale's] just thinking, you know — man." Staff writer Kevin Duchschere contribut- ed to this article. Mike Kaszuba•651.222.1673 * THURSD Wave of fires overwhelms Red Cross 1 FIRE FROM BI The Red Cross provides shelter for people who have been displaced, offers med- ical and mental health care and helps people pay for food, clothing and other items they need to get back on their feet. The organization set up an emergency shelter Tuesday for the people who lost their homes in Bloomington. Since Jan. 1, the Red Cross has responded to 80 fires and helped more than 250 people in the metro area, spending about $50,000 of the agency's $70,000 budget for January and February. In all of 2010, it helped 440 people affected by disasters in the metro area. Hansen said he's not sure why the agency has responded to more fires than usual. "When you have big cold snaps like this, our tendency is to see more fires," he said. "It's just a little tougher winter. That may be a factor." More than 100 disaster reac- tion volunteers have answered calls since Jan. 1 to assist at fires across the metro area. "They've been getting up at 2 and 4 in the morning in some of the worst cold," Hansen said. "It's a pretty big commitment." Vows to rebuild The cause of the Eagan res- taurant fire hasn't been official- ly determined, but co-owner Ramsey Ansari said it appears to have been a heating unit on the roof above the bathrooms. He said the family -run res- taurant will reopen. "I'm con- fident. I've got to be. If it's not here, it will be somewhere around here." During the morning rush Photos by RICHARD SENNOTT • rsennott@startribune.com Firefighters battled a blaze at Ansari's Mediterranean Grill in Eagan. Restaurant co-owner Ramsey An - sari said the family -run restaurant will reopen. "I'm confident. I've got to be" The cause of the restaurant fire hasn't been officially determined, but Ansari said it appears to have been a heating unit on the roof. hour Wednesday, motorists on 35E could see smoke com- ing from the building. Ansari's Mediterranean Grill opened at that location, a former Bakers Square, in 2008. He said fami- ly members had done much of the interior renovation work at the restaurant themselves. "We've had a lot of sup- port through Facebook and e- mail. My phone's been ringing DONATE TO THE RED CROSS Monetary donations can be made by phone at 612-460-3700 or online at www.redcrosstc.org. The Red Cross does not collect donated food, clothes or other items. The website also in- cludes information about volunteering with the Red Cross. off the hook," Ansari said. "It's nice. I need that right now." pwalsh@startribune.com • 612-673-4482 khumphrey@startribune.com • 952-882- 9056 0, 2011 ring NOW AVAILABLE FROM YOUR MOBILE PHONE. TEXT 'OBITS' TO 79797 TO HAVE A LINK SENT TO YOUR PHONE. isen, pioneering choral director nnesota choir director who Omaha Beach on D-Day. Curtis Hansen Navy and was part of the D- Day landings at Omaha Beach in France and Oki- nawa in the Pa- cific a year later. "He was pre- paring for the in- vasion of Japan with 70 peo- ple under his command," Mu- riel said. "They were told that very few of them would sur- vive." Then the atomic bombs were dropped, bringing an end to the conflict. The Hansens settled in Brainerd for 13 years, where Curtis developed an award - winning high school choral department that performed at state and national music con- ventions. Hansen became an editor of choral music at Schmitt Music Co. in Minneapolis, and in 1977 founded Curtis Music Press, which provided new music for school and church choirs. His career involved editing, pub- lishing, composing and arrang- ing choral music, and teaching other choral music directors in clinics. He also played the clar- inet and was a great fan of jazz; he played in the Bloomington Medalist Band and several small groups. Dale Warland, music di- rector for the St. Paul Cham- ber Orchestra Chorale, said Hansen was "terribly impor- tant in choral music educa- tion, not only in Minnesota but throughout the country." His publications and leader- ship were valuable not only to musicians, said Warland, but also to untold numbers of peo- ple in audiences. "Good choral music and great singing expe- riences really change people," he said. Hansen is survived by two daughters: Mary Farrell of Vi- enna, Austria, and Jeanne Ro- sauer of Girdwood, Alaska. He also is survived by a sis- ter, Helen Fuhs of Anchorage, Alaska, and two grandsons. Farrell said her father never talked about World War II until after he attended the 45th anni- versary of D-Day in France in ALSO NOTED 1989. Hansen was soon going to high schools and speaking to civic groups so that young- er generations would not for- get about the war. Murrae Freng, a lifetime friend who was choir direc- tor in Alexandria's high school, said he considered Hansen a mentor, even though they were nearly the same age. They arranged joint concerts in Brainerd and Alexandria in the 1950s and early 1960s, he said. Freng said Hansen had a knack for challenging kids. "He was able to do things with high school choirs that many college choirs would have been envious of," he said. "He just refused to accept anything but the very best." Services have been held, and Hansen was buried at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. 1. Paul Getty III, 54, who was a grandson of the oil baron once believed to be the world's richest man and who achieved noto- riety in 1973 when he was kidnapped by Italian gangsters, died Saturday at his home near London. His son, actor Balthazar Getty, confirmed the death. A drug overdose in 1981 caused him to have a stroke that left him paralyzed, unable to speak and partly blind. Brian Jacques, 71, author of the "Redwall" series, died Saturday in Liverpool. Set in the misty English past, the children's books center on the triumph of good over evil — specifically the hard-won victories of the abbey's mice, badgers and squirrels over the rats, weasels and stoats that threaten their peaceable kingdom. The books have sold more than 20 million copies and inspired an animated PBS series. His 22nd Redwall book, "The Rogue Crew," is to be published in May. NEWS SERVICES Beck -Weidner, Chase Paul Erickson, Carl Bringgold Gallagher, Marion Helen Ianuary 30. 2011 to February 5, 2011 111111r77r MEI Potter and Leitch Hess, Sandy Katherine 7/12/55 - 2/8/11 Age 55, of Bloomington, MN, passed away on Febru- ary 8, 2011 sur- rounded by her family. Pre- ceded in death by parents, Al- fred and Alvina Blue; and many brothers and sisters. Survived by husband, Jerry; daughter, Sheena; siblings, Genevieve LaFontaine, Shirley (Tom) Dauphinais, Linda Blue, Jack (Darlene) Blue, Dennis (Mary) Blue, Marcus (Judy) Blue, Ronny Blue, Barron Blue, Marvin Blue, and Richard (Charlene) Pays; many nieces, nephews and friends. Private interment at a later date at Dawn Valley Memorial Park. Funeral service 2 PM Saturday, Feb. 12 at St. Michael's Lutheran church, 9201 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington. Visitation 1 hour prior to service at church and also 5-8 PM Friday at: Washburn-McReavy Dawn Valley Chapel 952-941-7686 9940 Bush Lake Rd., Bloomington Hoversen, Eugene R. "Gene" Age 87, of Bloomington, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning. Gene shared his love of music with those around him. His great- est joys were his cocker spaniels, with a special fondness for his pal "-^^ Charlie. Gene is preceded in death by his parents, Elsie and Herbert Hoversen, brother Bill Hoversen, and his beloved wife Ann. He is survived by his son Ray, daugh- ter-in-law Patti, brother Herbert, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral Service Friday 9:30 AM at Gill Broth- ers Funeral Chapel, 9947 Lyndale Ave. So. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Visitation Friday 1/2 hour prior to service only. In lieu of flowers, memorial preferred to the Animal Humane Society. www.GILLBROTHERS.com BLOOMINGTON 952 888 7771 Huart, Richard Butler Age 75, of West St. Paul, died February 8, 2011, at home. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Nancy (Hagstrom); daughters, Lisa Huart, Karen Walsh (Brian), and Anne Huart (Peter Vars); son, David Huart (Jennifer); grandchildren, Michael and Caitlin Dougherty, Jack Walsh, and Sophia and Ava Huart; sister, Connie Small (Harold); z1/3(i� In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Emily Seydell takes a run down one of the hills at Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill in Eagan. The hill has so far experienced fewer closures this year (compared to a typical year) due to bountiful snowfalls. (Photo by Juli Seydell Johnson • Special to the Sun Current) Snow deluge makes for good year at Trapp Farm Park tubing hill Closures for lack of snow 'not an issue this year' BY JENNIE OLSON • SUN NEWSPAPERS With the snowiest December on record in Minnesota, cities have had to stretch budgets and manpower to plow and salt the roads. But for Eagan Director of Parks and Recreation Juli Seydell Johnson, there's a silver lining to the season's extreme winter conditions. "It's been a great year at the tubing hill," Seydell Johnson said, referring to the Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill on Wilderness Run Road. "As much as the snow has been clogging up the roads and the trails, it's been a good time out there for tubing down the hill." The Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill had to close several days last week due to the extreme temperatures, but Seydell Johnson said that was the first time it had closed all winter. "Typically over the last five years we've had to be closed a number of times because of warm weather," she said. "Obviously, that has not been an issue this year." The facility, run by the city of Eagan, opens each year after 6.8 inches of snow falls. Seydell Johnson said that despite the record amount of snow fall this year, the city is actually hoping for a few more inches for the sake of the tubing hill. "We don't have snowmaking capabili- ties, so when we haven't had snow for a week, it tends to get trampled down," she said. The facility can be rented for events through the Eagan Parks and Recreation department, but only official Trapp Farm Park tubes can be used during normal business hours in the designated tubing area for the safety of guests. Although the park does not consider it trespassing for people to be on the hill during off hours, they warn that there will not be staff members or tubes avail- able during those times. Tubing costs $2.75 per person or $22.50 for a 10-visit card. Children under 42-inches are admitted free when accom- panied by a paid adult. Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill is locat- ed at 841 Wilderness Run Road in Eagan. More information is available at 651-675- 5511 or wwwcityofeagan.com. K Eagan S1M Apple Valley Rosemount URR What to do with ABLE? Fire training facility faces repair or replacement BY JEFFREY BARTHEL SUN NEWSPAPERS While it has ably served local firefighters for nearly a quarter century, one Dakota County fire training facility seems to be showing its age. Local fire departments and city officials are in the early stages of examining whether ABLE, a fire training facility used by the Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan and Lakeville fire departments, should be repaired or replaced. According to a report presented last month by Lakeville Fire Chief Mike Meyer, the cost to replace ABLE would be $1.2- $1.6 million, a total which would be divided among the four cities that use it. Current structural problems alone are in need of close to $200,000 in repairs, his report stated. The current building is located near the intersection of Cliff Road and River Ridge Boulevard, and was construct- ed in 1987. It measures 1,200 square feet, and features live burn capability in one room. ABLE: TO PAGE 14 In the Community, With the Community, CALLIN ALL TUTORS urn 0 Icy cold hampers restaurant fire fight PIONEER PRESS: JEAN PIERI A firefighter works at the scene of an early -morning fire at Ansari's Mediterranean Grill in Eagan on Wednesday. About 100 firefighters from five departments worked six hours to extinguish the blaze, which likely started in the area of a rooftop heating unit. Equipment froze, water created slippery conditions as firefighters took on Mediterranean Grill blaze in Eagan By Jessica Fleming jfleming@pioneerpress.com About two years ago, Hussein Ansari and his sons and daughter put everything they had into open- ing a restaurant in Eagan. Early Wednesday morning, it all went up in flames. Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott said his department arrived at Ansari's Mediterranean Grill about 4:45 a.m. More than six hours later, the fire was out. No one was injured, but Scott said the building is likely a total loss. "It seems like it's all lost," an exhausted Ansari said Wednesday afternoon. "It's sad because all the people that worked there, it's all the income they had." The fire, which likely started in the area of a rooftop heating unit, took five area fire departments and 100 firefighters to extinguish, Scott said. The frigid tempq, were to blame for the massive manpower required. Departments from Apple Valley, Burnsville, Bloomington, Mendota Heights and Inver Grove Heights responded. "I can't imagine a worse time to fight a fire," Scott said. "It was RESTAURANT FIRE, 5B > ANOKA COUNTY > DNA testing closer with new hire The Anoka County sheriff's office will soon be able to per- orm its own DNA testing. The department on Wednes- ay announced the hire of y Liberty, a lead DNA crim- alist who now makes it possi- e for Anoka County to han- e DNA testing in-house. Without an accredited crimi- alist on staff, the county sent vidence for DNA testing to e Minnesota Bureau of Crim- al Apprehension, which rocesses samples from cross the state, sheriff's kesman Paul Sommer said. The start of DNA testing arks the completion of the -County Regional Forensic b, which serves Sherburne d Wright counties as well as oka. The facility started 'th a drug chemistry lab and fingerprint lab in 2006. efore joining the Anoka unty lab, Liberty spent 11 ars with the BCA as a foren- scientist in the DNA lab. DNA testing is expected be operational sometime in e summer, Sommer said. — Sarah Horner West metro NNE.APOUS olice say man's eath suspicious eapolis police described e death of a man found in a inneapolis home early ednesday as "suspicious." ust before 2 a.m., police sponded to a shooting at 16 Queen Ave. N. in the illard-Hay neighborhood. medics found the man's dy in the home. initial investigation sug- sted the man may have died hcurl n na mnaian c aims insani A St. Louis Park teenager charged with killing two con- venience store clerks in Iowa plans to use the insanity defense, according to court documents filed in Kossuth County, Iowa, the Des Moines Register reported. Michael Swanson, 17, is charged as an adult with mur- der and robbery in Kossuth and Humboldt counties. He's accused of killing a clerk in Algona on Nov. 15, then driving to Humboldt and killing another clerk. Swanson's attorney, Charles Kenville, asked a Kossuth County judge to combine the murder trials, set for the sum- mer. Kenville withdrew a motion to transfer the Kossuth County case to juvenile court. A judge denied a request to transfer the case in Humboldt County to juvenile court. Kenville declined to com- ment on the filings. — Associated Press BLOOMINGTON > Detroit Lakes principal honored The principal of Rossman Elementary School in Detroit Lakes is Minnesota's National Distinguished Principal this year, and he's being honored this week by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association. The association began its annual state convention Wednesday in Bloomington. It wraps up Friday with a speech by Gov. Mark Dayton. Ross - man Principal Sanford Nelson will be honored during an awards banquet tonight. Nelson has been active in the association, including repre- senting it on the State Board of School Administrators, for the past eight years. Detroit Lakes Superintendent Doug Froke credited Nelson with leading a stairs, police say It took a crane to remove a Stillwater man's pickup truck from the stairs between Third and Fourth streets north near the Stillwater Public Library after he apparently made a wrong turn early Tuesday. David Donahue was arrested and charged with fourth - degree driving while intoxicat- ed and third-degree test refusal, according to police reports. He also was charged with giving a false name to a police officer and lacking proof of insurance. An officer who responded to a 1 a.m. call Tuesday found Donahue "stumbling south - bound on Third Street near Chestnut Street," according to police reports. City Administrator Larry Hansen said "significant" damage was done to the stair's railing. "If you look at the top of the steps, it's amazing to me that he got a full-sized pickup down there," Hansen said. "He liter- ally had to have had just an inch on each side." — Mary Divine OAKDALE > Man convicted in day care sex abuse An Oakdale man has been convicted of molesting a girl who was at a home day care run by his wife. James Edward Heimkes, 66, pleaded guilty in September to one felony count of criminal sexual conduct with a victim younger than 13. He was sen- tenced last month to 90 days in jail, to be served as either work release or community service, plus 25 years' probation. He also was ordered to register as a predatory offender, to attend a sex -offender program and to have no unsupervised contact with children, including his ternal Order of Police Lodge 1, which runs the pull -tab booth at the Moose Lodge. The police association is offering the reward. Tipsters can remain anony- mous; call Inver Grove Heights Police at 651450-2525. — Nick Ferraro At the Capitol House approves package of cuts The Minnesota House on Wednesday approved a $900 million package of spend- ing reductions, sending the bill to the Senate. The House voted 68-61 for the legislation to cut state aid for local governments, public col- leges and health and welfare programs. The proposal would also require Gov. Mark Day- ton's administration to cut $100 million in unspent state funds before July. Majority Republicans say the budget cuts would take a chunk out of a $6.2 billion deficit. They aim to send the bill to the Democratic gover- nor this week. Dayton hasn't said whether he would veto the bill but has criticized it as a piecemeal approach to the deficit. Democrats say the bill would drive up property taxes and tuition while forcing service cuts. — Associated Press Panel votes to cut committee budgets The House rules committee demonstrated Wednesday that legislators are getting serious about trimming expenses. The Rules and Legislative Administration Committee voted unanimously to slash committee budgets this ses- sion by one-third. duct voted unanimously Wednesday to dismiss the complaint. Their resolution states that the two Democrats and two Republicans on the panel believed Sen. Scott New- man of Hutchinson when he said that he didn't know about the e-mail beforehand and that it didn't reflect his office's poli- cy Several Democratic senators filed the complaint against Newman after his legislative assistant rejected a request last month that he meet with members of the Minnesota Nurses Association, which endorsed his opponent. They say he broke Senate rules and reflected poorly on the institu- tion. Newman said his assistant was new in the job and made a mistake. He apologized for the message. — Associated Press IMinnesota ROCHESTER > Boyfriend charged in infant's death A Rochester man is accused of killing a 4-month-old baby by throwing him, shaking him and placing a pillow over his face. Michael Smith, 25, told inves- tigators he returned to the mobile home he rented with the baby's mother late Sunday night to sleep. When the child, Aiden Joseph Hoyer, began crying, Smith said he threw him two to three feet into his crib, shook him from side to side and placed a pillow over his face to make him stop. Smith said he was drunk at the time. The child was unrespon- sive when officers arrived at the home. Smith is charged with sec- ond-degree unintentional mur- der. His bail is set at $750,000. — Associated Press Pawl'nty and Raehmann are this week and unavailable for from meetings with pastors in did for Republicans in Min- y-"— Zllo/c CONTINUED FROM 1B > Restaurant fire 4 below when I was driving down there. ... Firefighters have nice, warm clothes, but no matter what you're wearing in this weather, it's not enough." Scott said equipment was freezing up as fast as firefight- ers' hands. "Your hands at some point just stop functioning, even with gloves on," he said. Firefighters' air packs stopped working as condensa- tion froze, so they'd have to go get new ones before going back in to fight the fire, he said. One of Eagan's ladder trucks froze up, he said, and an Apple Valley truck refused to start and had to be towed. In addition, water poured on the fire created an "ice rink" in the parking lot. Scott said sev- eral firefighters fell. Despite the difficulties, no firefighters got frostbite or were otherwise injured while fighting the fire. Ansari was co-founder of Mediterranean Cruise Cafe, which was located in Eagan fox decades until the city acquired its building by use of eminent domain in 2008. His brother, Jamal Ansari, took over full ownership of the Mediterranean Cruise Cafe in the late 1990s. As the cafe pre- pared to relocate in Burnsville, in late 2008, Hussein Ansari and his four sons and daughter filled the city's Middle Eastern food void by opening Ansari's. "At least they are all safe," Jamal Ansari said of his broth- er's family. "What can you do? Restaurant fire Ansari's Mediterranean Grill in Eagan is likely a total loss after an early Wednesday fire. 77 32 a Cliff Rd. • A ✓ ' N PIONEER PRESS "It seems like it's all lost. It's sad because all the people that worked there, it's all the income they had." Restaurant owner Hussein Ansari They can always open another place, and hopefully, every- thing will work out well" Hussein Ansari said it was too soon to say what would happen with the building, which he does not own. He said the family was insured for the items they owned. Firefighters, however, were able to salvage rare fish out of an aquarium in the entryway. "The owners were very wor- ried about the fish, so firefight- ers hooked up a generator to the aquarium," Scott said. When a person the Ansaris hired to transport the fish arrived, firefighters scooped out the fish, including a 2-foot eel, with a net. "The owner had a lot of attachment to them, so we wanted to help try and get them out," Scott said. "Hope- fully, they survive." Jessica Fleming can be reached at 651-228-5435. ter, ing sne en, -n- and ase of es - art, M- ,16 ul. Ir's aks ed ra) 1 e- ith 55 Davis, Danny 8/2/1965-2/5/2011 Indigenous Eastsider, tall skinny red- head with a quick quip and quick Irish temper that belied his gentle spirit. Lover of music, guitars, trains, fishing, riding his bike, sex, drugs & rock n roll." A total presence on the planet. Solar powered. Now riding his Harley into the sun. May the wind be at his back. Survived by partner Teri, close friends, a few enemies anci a family in deep grief. Private internment. Edgett, David Paul U.S. Army Veteran Buckbee Mears Retiree On Feb. 6, 2011,age 69 years. Be- loved husband of Sharon, survived by son Trace Haw- thorne, grandson Mike Haw- thorne, brother Warren (Connie) and uncle Don; brother in law, James Priebe; and cousin, Barb. there are many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews also many special friends especially Dennis and Pat. Funeral from MAPLE OAKS FUNERAL HOME 2585 Stillwater Rd. between Century and McKnight, Thursday, Feb.10, 2011 at 6:30pm. Visitation the hour preceding the serv- ice. memorials preferred. Maple Oaks/ Phalen Park Funeral Home 651-738-2198 Emch, Margaret Martenson 78, of Maynard Died Sat., February 5 at Woodbury Care Center. Services Fri., Feb. 11, 2011 at 1:00 PM at Granite Falls Lutheran Church in Granite Falls, MN. Visitation Thurs. 4- 8:00 PM at Granite Falls Lutheran Church, prayer service at 7:30 PM. Survived by husband, Richard Emch; children: John (Deb) Martenson Gilman, IA, Mary Fontaine of Wood- bury, MN and Martha Martenson of Kennebunkport, ME; three grandchil- dren: Michael and Annika Fontaine and Amber Martenson. Preceded by her husband, James Martenson; granddaughter, Angel Christine Mart- enson; son-in-law, Kevin Fontaine. The Funeral Hoversen, Eugene R. "Gene" Age 87 Of Bloomington Passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning. Gene shared his love of music with those around him. His greatest joys were his cocker spaniels with a special fondness for his pal Charlie. Gene is preceded in deeath by his parents, Elsie and Herbert Hoversen; brother, Bill Hoversen and his beloved wife, Ann. He is survived by his son, Ray daughter-in-law, Patti; brother, Herbert and several nieces and neph- ews. Funeral Service Friday 9:30 AM at Gill Brothers Funeral Chapel, 9947 Lyndale Avenue South. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Visitation Friday 1/2 hou prior to service only. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Animal Humane Society. Gill ((1rothers FV',ERAL SERVICE 4 CREMATION www.GILLBROTHERS.com BLOOMINGTON 952-888-7771 Huart, Richard Butler Age 75 Of West St. Paul Died February 8, 2011, at home. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Nancy (Hagstrom); daughters, Lisa Huart, Karen Walsh (Brian), and Anne Huart (Peter Vars); son David Huart (Jennifer); grandchildren, Michael and Caitlin Dougherty, Jack Walsh, and Sophia and Ava Huart; sister, Connie Small (Harold); nephew, Steve Cutler (Arlene) and niece, Lynda Haskell. Richard was born and raised in Farmington, Maine. He excelled in athletics and academics and won a scholarship to Colby College in Waterville, Maine. Upon graduation he joined the Air Force and moved to Sherman, Texas. When he left the service he returned ear career Johnson, Mildred M. (nee LePage), age 94 Retired WI school teacher of Hudson, widow of Frederic John- son died Feb 4. Survived by children: Joe (Chris), Melanie (Frank) Yager & Valerie (John) Peterson and extended family. Memorial Svc: 1 PM Sat, Feb 12, Bethel Lutheran Church, 920 - 3rd St., Hudson. Visitations: 1 hour prior at church & Friday, 4-8:00 PM at: O'Connell Family ''a�� Funeral Homes www.pconnellfuneralhomes.com Hudson, WI 715-386-3725 Maher, Sean T. 49 of State Center, IA Was born into eternal life Sunday, February 6, 2011 at 1:30 a.m., at his residence surrounded by his loving wife and children, after a year long, courageous bottle with oral cancer and several infections. The Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 11, 2011, at the Basilica of St. John in Des Moines, IA. Visitation will be 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, February 10, 2011, at the Pursel Da- vis Funeral Home in Marshalltown, IA. Visitation will conclude with a Rosary and Vigil service to be held from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Interment will be 2:30 p.m., Friday, February 11, 2011, at Immac- ulate Conception Cemetery in Haver- hill, IA. A memorial has been estab- lished in his name and can be left of the funeral home or Funeral Mass. Sean spent the majority of his career with J.T. Ryerson & Son, a steel com- pany based in Chicago. After begin- ning with Ryerson in Minneapolis, he moved on to Boston and Philadelphia before taking the position of General manager in Marshalltown, IA in 1999. He will be terribly missed by his lovinwife of 27 years, Maria, comes out here a lot to L.A. and shops in the fashion district. New York as well." His late father, Richard Good, retired as a Hennepin County Sheriff's Depart- ment detective in 1987. He moved to Palm Springs and went to work for Frank Sinatra. "I really didn't get away with any- thing as a kid," said Good. Since Navarro has always gotten away with a lot, he does not sound like Rich- ard's kind of person. Good agreed. All e-mailers who can't see the resem- to a flumyordie.com "Bieber Fever" video co-starring Good and Ryan Harry, anoth- er "I Melt With You" co-star. They play a couple of "Thelma & Louise" -chan- neling dudes who are well beyond their teenybopper years and yet very passion- ate about the Bieber. The Grammy Grannies Turns out WCCO-TV's "Grannies" had the Grammys all figured out. The mothers of sports anchor Mark mg a morumE, L..cuLA ment was produced by Tracy Perlman and photographed by Andy Smith Will the Grannies be back for the Os- cars? "We may have to," said Mike Caputa, WCCO-TV news director. "We got a lot of response." It's very cute, but someone should tell the grannies that Frank Sinatra was some- thing of a thug, not that I'm defending any rappers. The grannies thought OF Blue STARTRIBUNE.COM/CJ: HUNGRY FOR MORE GOSSIP? HELP YOURSELF TO THE DISH ANYTIME ONLINE )are , he ntow fa `ll h® Donate Your Car to benefit the Make -A -Wish Foundation': of Minnesota • Free vehicles pick up • We accept all vehicles - running or not • We also accept Boats and RVs • Tax Deductable MAKE ESH CALL 651-645-9474 (7 days a week) www.wheelsforwishes.com THE 32nd ANNUAL MINNESOTA ), IIOME&?Feb. PATIOSHOW'7-2° C 7C'7 .homeandpatiosho .cam A Cenaiko Productions ••••"*"''-. C FAMILY RI VERGE NITRE AMPresented by M,RJ SE£URrrY�,�c. 11RJ Security's Total Connect Stay Connected... anytime, anywhere! Control your security system, keep an eye on your home, your vacation home, your family and more with Total Connect. Whether you're at home, across the street or across the country, you can control your security system with an online virtual keypad or your cell phone, to view activity in and around your home with our optional video services! This system also allows you to control lights & temperature remotely. This amazing digital communications solution uses the latest technology to give you control and information when you want it. Isn't it time you got connected? MRJ SECURITY Honeywefi Lear' more today www.mrjsecurity.com email: info@mrjsecurity.com 952-442-8434 At 85, love can be sweet, but complicated TEVLIN FROM B1 dle named Mitzy. Mitzy ruled Lakeview. "She trained her- self to be a therapy dog," said McShannoch. But the rules for pets changed, so McShannoch had to give Mitzy away. Then he was even more alone. That's about the time Mc- Shannoch made an impression on Irene Filkins, who lives in another wing on the same floor at Lakeview. He saw her in the dining room, and as he often does, offered Filkins a hug. "I feel people need hugs oc- casionally, so I reached out to Irene and the next thing I knew I was flat on my back," said Mc- Shannoch. "She swept me off my feet." A couple of days later, Filkins stopped by to make sure Mc- Shannoch survived. Filkins, 72, is a retired English and French teacher and like McShannoch, she likes a good story. So the former electrical engineer and former teacher hit it off. "She knew I would be lone- ly without my dog, so she vol- unteered to be a friend," said McShannoch. "After we start- ed visiting, I told Irene I was married. There were certain things that would not happen because I was married, and she understood." So they visited every day, talking about their lives and how they had gotten to this particular place and time. They talk about current events and their families, and every evening they have a nightcap, cause "I'm old-tastuon Blackwell to prepare to h knocked out by this gowr Wilson looks like a ; strapless gown, "The Der georgette fabric. The Mrs dle suits her to a couTure, enjoys fine clothing and, band noted to me, Jimmy C.J. is at 612.332.TIPS or cjC start a glass of Scotch. He Irene's quick mind ar pendent spirit. "She's Irish, but I'm so I can handle her," "It's just nice to have si to talk to, or not talk to. It didn't take long Shannoch to make a bol `After we'd been, I gue call it dating, for awhi] her I had a question for said. "Look, I'm 85. Ho time do I have?" "She said 'yes' b asked the question," s Shannoch. So Jim McShanno Irene Filkins are engag though they know n may never happen. "We would love to ried, but we can't," s Shannoch. "I am not break my marriage VOA "I've told Irene I do her to forget her first hi said McShannoch. "Ar not forget Dolores. ly [Irene] asked me it 911 call: `There's a deer in my closet' 4 DEER FROM B1 ing toward Slattery's bedroom window. "I could hear their screams," Tantilla said. As emergency workers gath- ered in Eagan, Tony Salzer, De- partment of Natural Resourc- es conservation officer, got the call. "The first thing I heard was `There's a deer in the closet,— Salzer said. "I said, 'Are you messing with me?" He's never gotten such a call. "And I probably never will again." Jim LaBarre, DNR assistant wildlife manager, said his de- partment does get calls about window -crashing deer once or twice a year. "It's random," he said. "They get scared or they're be- ing chased. ... They get into a spot they're not used to. They see their reflection in a win- dow and they think it's another deer or they don't see the glass at all. You can't give them too much credit. They don't have cognitive ability." Arriving at the apartment, Salzer knew there was trou- ble. "There was so much blood inside, you could smell it," he said. Moments of silence were shattered by the panicked thrashing of the deer. The key was to get the frightened animal out of the bathroom without hurting any- one or trashing any more of the apartment. Using the bed's mattress, Salzer and the other emergen- cy workers set up a barrier be- tween them and the deer while using it to guide the deer on a direct path back through the broken window. The plan worked. The frightened deer found its way into a nearby woods in the Minnesota River Valley ar- ea. On Monday, Williams and Slattery waited as a hazardous material removal crew cleaned up the bloody mess and work- ers replaced broken windows. "It looks like a murder scene," Slattery said. "We haven't been able to sleep much," she said. "We jump with every noise." Mary Lynn Smith • 612-673-4788 ...ads Productso.-.. Lcloset' .corn .ped • The 911 calls came from an Eagan apartment complex where two panicked deer crashed past frightened residents. By MARY LYNN SMITH mismith@startribune.com Colleen Slattery screamed as the deer crashed through her bed- room window, leapt over her bed and through the walk-in closet into the bathroom. "I was terrified," she said. Moments earlier, a loud bang had startled her and her boyfriend awake. Beau Williams jumped from bed think- ing a burglar was busting in. Then he saw a big yellow animal crash through the window of their Eagan apartment. "A dog?" he wondered. "Crap," he said. "It's a deer." As the wild animal turned around to escape, Williams slammed the door. Slattery frantically called 9ll. "There's a deer in my closet," she said. "What?" the dispatcher said in dis- belief. But she wasn't the only resident of the Woodridge Apartments facing a wildlife invasion Saturday morning. Eric Tantilla had called 911 seconds earlier. "I called 911 and told them, you're not going to believe this, but I just watched a deer jump out of an apart- ment window and another one is in- side an apartment," Tantilla said. "[The dispatcher] really didn't believe me." Then the trapped deer crashed through a window, bounding over a porch railing to the apartment where Slattery and Williams still slept. Tan- tilla watched as the deer shattered a window but was stopped by a sec- ond pane of glass. Then it vainly at- tacked the sliding glass door to the liv- ing room, leaving the window spat- tered and smeared with blood, before jumping back over the railing and flail - Deer continues on B2 ► ance in President Obazna's budget. Fire destroys Ansari's restaurant Early -morning blaze began near heating unit in roof by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Firefighters from five cit- ies helped battle an early - morning fire at Ansari's Mediterranean Grill and Lounge in Eagan Feb. 9, but officials say the restaurant is likely a total loss. The Eagan Fire Depart- ment responded to the blaze at about 4:45 a.m. and found heavy smoke and flames coming from the rear of the building. Due to the chal- lenges that come with fight- ing a fire in the freezing cold, crews were also called in from surrounding commu- nities such as Bloomington, Apple Valley and Inver Grove Heights. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but authori- ties believe it began near a heating unit in the roof above the kitchen. The restaurant's owners told firefighters they'd had issues with the heating unit in the past, Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott said. Firefighters struggled with extreme cold tempera- tures that caused a truck ladder to malfunction and a fire hydrant to freeze. Crews were also slipping and fall- ing frequently on the sheer ice created by water from the hoses. No serious injuries were reported. The flames were extin- guished within about two hours, but firefighters were still on scene five hours after the fire began, waiting for backup to relieve cold and Photo by I rin Johnson Crews from five surrounding communities helped Eagan firefighters battle flames and freezing temperatures at Ansari's Mediterranean Grill and Lounge on Wednesday morning. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the restaurant is likely a total loss, officials said. IN BRIEF This story was original- ly posted online Wednes- day. For more breaking news, go online at www. ThisweekLive.com. weary crews. While the damage has yet to be officially calculated, Scott said the building will likely be a total loss. When their uncle Jamal "I'm standing here in 8 /chose to move the Medi- inches of water on the floor, terranean Cruise Cafe to and most of the ceiling is down," he said from the scene. In addition to fire and water damage, much of the building was coated in ice, as was a limousine parked next to the restaurant. Opened in 2009, Ansari's is owned by five brothers and overseen by their father, Pasha Ansari, who was the cofounder of the Mediterra- nean Cruise Cafe in Eagan. Burnsville, the brothers de- cided they wanted to remain in Eagan and opened their own restaurant. The building included a 110-year-old bar that was originally in the Leamington Hotel in Minneapolis, which was once a political hot spot and included several presi- dents among its guests before being torn down in 1992. Ansari's is located at 1960 Rahn Cliff Court. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. is, check us out at 1 ward Winner on Feb. 10 for an 11-day mis- sion trip to provide eye care to residents of the village and surrounding communities. "We will be providing eye exams and glasses to hun- dreds of people who have never had eye care in their lifetime," Wellik said. "It is difficult to imagine my life without glasses. I would be unable to function in most of my daily activities. It will be quite rewarding to provide these people with their first eyeglass prescription." Wellik will be the sole op - year. Wellik's help is needed now more than ever in Gris- Gris. "I know they had destruc- tion of quite a few homes in the earthquake," he said. Wellik expects to see about 100 patients a day, and will be bringing nearly 1,500 pairs of prescription glasses along on the trip. While Wellik and his trav- el companions from Church of the Risen Savior are fund- ing the trip themselves, dona- tions of glasses and cash are being accepted. Donations ple; checks can be made out to "Risen Savior Catholic Church" with "Haitian Mis- sion" in the memo line. For more information about making a donation, contact Apple Valley Eye Care at (952) 432-0680. Updates about the group's experience in Haiti will be posted at www.applevalley- eyecare.com throughout the Feb. 10-20 trip. Andrew Miller is at andrew. miller@ecm-inc.com. Club/from 1A terim athletic director. They also will be required to join several rifle organiza- tions to qualify for local and national target shooting com- petitions. "It's a very skilled type of competition," Marshall said. Students will be ranked by their abilities with the highest rank being a sharpshooter. Members of all rankings will be able to earn a varsity letter. "It's an opportunity to rec- ognize students and hopefully i;r. E JOHN'S LDTHERAN CHURCH LCA Our New Address 20165 Heath Ave. Across from Aronson Park 952-469-4916 Celebrated in the classic, historic & liturgical format "We are here to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and to reach out in His Love to all people." Evangelical Lutheran Church in America www.sjlcl.org Worship Hours 8:30 & 10:45 am Education Hour 9:40 am Pastor Gregg Helland To Advertise Your Church Call us at 952-846-2000 Deadline is Monday at 5:OOpm for changes. get others to join," Marshall said. The club currently has one member, Nick Skrogstad, a Burnsville High School se- nior. Skrogstad, 17, has been a member of an American Le- gion target shooting team for the past four years and has earned an expert ranking. He most recently won a bronze medal in the Legion's regional junior championships. "I love the camaraderie on the team," said Skrogstad, who is team captain. "I'm very excited for the club to be a part of our extracurricular clubs." Although Skrogstad is cur- rently the only member, sev- eral students have expressed interest in the new club, Mar- shall said. This is not the first time the district has created a school club with an outside organiza- tion. Burnsville High School's figure skating club is overseen by a local organization. E-mail Jessica Harper at: jessica. harper@ecm-inc. com iiillistra URrnfm1m flaftim' New place for lost pets Now that Humane Society is closed, two other facilities will hold wandering pets, adopt out unclaimed animals by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Each year, Eagan Animal Control rounds up about 250 lost and wandering pets that don't have identification. Those pets were previously taken to the Minnesota Val- ley Humane Society in Burns- ville and held until they could be claimed or adopted. Now that the MVHS has closed, two other facilities have stepped up to house the city's wayward animals. Pilot Knob Animal Hos- pital in Eagan will be the pri- mary holding location used by Eagan Animal Control. If that facility is full, animals will be taken to American Boarding Kennel in Burns- ville. American Boarding Ken- nel will also be used by Burns- ville Animal Control. Eagan pays about $20,000 annually to house captured animals, which are held for five business days. Animals have included ev- erything from dogs and cats to ferrets, rabbits and the oc- casional bird, said Eagan An- imal Control Officer Karen Grimm. Not having identification for a pet can get costly: Own- ers who claim their pets will pay a $20 impound fee plus a S20 per -day fee. "So it will cost $40 to come and pick up a pet the same day it was brought in," she said. If the pets are not claimed, the facilities will put them up Photo by Rick Orndorf Eagan animal control officers used to bring wandering pets to the Minnesota Valley Humane Society, pictured above, which would hold them for five days and adopt them out if they went unclaimed. That facility closed in December. Now an Eagan vet clinic and a Burnsville boarding facility will take on lost pets. for adoption. Of the 250 pets collected each year, only about 98 end up being claimed, Grimm said. "We did, however, return 116 animals without ever go- ing to the pound. Those were the ones with tags on," she said. "It's important to have tags on. They get home a lot easier." Grimm encourages all dog owners to purchase tags for See Animals, 12A Mommv Me Class Visit our website or call not for registration details. Classes fill up quickly. Don't delay! Lookin to let your kids into dance? Tuesday Mornings 18 Months - 3 Years For more information and registration form www.studio4dancers.con 2010 MC judge's Choice Animals/from lA their dogs. Microchipping is also effective — and works well for cats and other pets — provided the information is accurate and up-to-date. Dog tags cost $20 and are good for two years. They can be purchased through the city or at any local vet clinic. The cost of microchips varies, Grimm said. "But they cost significant- ly less than getting your cat out after it's been impounded for a couple of days," she said. Grimm said pet owners should call both facilities if their pet is missing. The facilities will wor with rescue groups to plac unclaimed animals, and peo ple interested in adopting pet can also contact them. Pilot Knob Animal Hos pital is located at 4145 Kno Drive, off of Diffley and Pi lot Knob roads. For mo information, call (651) 45 8160. American Boarding Ke nel is located at 1102 Ea Highway 13 in Burnsville an can be reached at (952) 89 5100. Erin Johnson is at eaga thisweek@ecrn-inc.com. FREE Loaners available. See Kevin at our Collision Center 952-469-6841 11 awarded based on criteria set by the donor. Some em- phasize academic achieve- ment, while others look for involvement in the commu- nity or certain activities. Gopher Resource, which has donated to the program since its inception in 1991, awards a $2,500 scholar- ship to students pursuing a degree in science or envi- ronmental studies, Halver- son said, while Friends of 3 the Wescott Library give to 1 students pursuing either a two- or four-year degree. r Since it began 20 years s ago, the Eagan Foundation has distributed more than s $750,000 in scholarship funds to 800 Eagan stu- dents. Lisa Piskor, a 2002 grad- uate of Eagan High School, is just one of those students. Piskor said her $1,000 scholarship from the Koch and board fee for the first year of college, allowing her to work fewer hours and fo- cus on her studies. After earning her bache- lor of arts degree in French and political science, Piskor now works as a grass -roots and public affairs consul- tant for Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Eagan. "I feel fortunate to have grown up in a community that supports the education of young people and it is a privilege to now work in this community," she said. "I didn't realize how unique the Eagan Foundation was until I went to college and met other students my age from throughout the coun- try, Scholarship donors en- courage students to stay connected to their Eagan community after they grad- See Scholarship, 12A would replace the retiree, said Jeff Solomon, finance director for District 196. The rest enables the school district to save $100,000, Solomon said. Typically, teachers eli- gible for this incentive re- ceive a significantly higher salary than those subject to layoff. If even a few teachers retire earlier than nor- mal, the district could save more, Solomon said. Over 10 years the sav- ings could be $300,000 if, for example, an older teacher making $62,000 were replaced by a new teacher making $32,000. This example assumes no raises over the 10 years. Additionally, the incen- tive boosted the number of retirees in the district, said Tom Pederstuen, director. See Retirement, 11A t gsr .40 1 FioralEagan closes doors City's only independent flower shop opened 26 years ago by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan Floral owner Pat Thomas announced last week she has shuttered her business after nearly three decades. A message from Thomas on the store's answering ma- chine thanks customers for their loyalty over the past 26 years. "I regret with heavy heart that I must close my doors at this time," she said. "I will miss you, and thank you very much." Thomas did not give a rea- son for the closing and could not be reached for comment before this issue went to press. But her passion for her business, customers and em- ployees is well known. Eagan Floral was one of the first tenants of Town Centre, built in the mid-'80s In 2009 Thomas was forced to leave her original location due to the downturn in the economy. She moved her shop to a smaller space at 1340 Duckwood Drive, across from Walmart. "Rent went up, and with that, business has been down," Thomas said in an interview at the time. "I had to make a decision whether I wanted to cut my labor force or go to a smaller location and keep my employees." Thomas also saw her busi- ness take a hit eight years ago File photo Eagan Floral owner Pat Thomas last week closed the doors to her shop, which has been operating in Eagan since the mid-1980s. when an out-of-state com- pany posing as a local florist began to poach customers. The company would list itself in local phone books under the names Eagan Florist, Eagan Flowers, and Florist of Eagan, using what looked like a local number or an 800 number. Customers, thinking they were calling Eagan Floral, were actually routed to a switchboard in New Jersey staffed by telemarketers, not florists. The company would then deliver substandard flowers, causing customers to com- plain to Eagan Floral. Thomas was a driving force in the fight against such companies, and in 2010 the state passed a bill barring such deceptive practices that take customers away from lo- cal businesses. Over the past three de- cades, Thomas has built a solid reputation and a loyal customer following based on personal service and quality arrangements Some customers would stop in her shop just to visit her two resident birds, Har- old the dove and Pepe the cockatiel, and give them treats. In a 2009 interview, Thomas said that quitting the business altogether wa "unthinkable," and that sh► planned to leave the store t her sons someday. "I can't quite think of ing up the flowers, peri she said. "I've been doirr for 50-some years" Erin Johnson is at et thisweek@ecm-inc.com MIMI MI In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Emily Seydell takes a run down one of the hills at Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill in Eagan. The hill has so far experienced fewer closures this year (compared to a typical year) due to bountiful snowfalls. (Photo by Juli Seydell Johnson • Special to the Sun Current) Snow deluge makes for good year at Trapp Farm Park tubing hill Closures for lack of snow 'not an issue this year' BY JENNIE OLSON • SUN NEWSPAPERS With the snowiest December on record in Minnesota, cities have had to stretch budgets and manpower to plow and salt the roads. But for Eagan Director of Parks and Recreation Juli Seydell Johnson, there's a silver lining to the season's extreme winter conditions. "It's been a great year at the tubing hill," Seydell Johnson said, referring to the Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill on Wilderness Run Road. "As much as the snow has been clogging up the roads and the trails, it's been a good time out there for tubing down the hill." The Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill had to close several days last week due to the extreme temperatures, but Seydell Johnson said that was the first time it had closed all winter. "Typically over the last five years we've had to be closed a number of times because of warm weather," she said. "Obviously, that has not been an issue this year." The facility, run by the city of Eagan, opens each year after 6-8 inches of snow falls. Seydell Johnson said that despite the record amount of snow fall this year, the city is actually hoping for a few more inches for the sake of the tubing hill. "We don't have snowmaking capabili- ties, so when we haven't had snow for a week, it tends to get trampled down," she said. The facility can be rented for events through the Eagan Parks and Recreation department, but only official Trapp Farm Park tubes can be used during normal business hours in the designated tubing area for the safety of guests. Although the park does not consider it trespassing for people to be on the hill during off hours, they warn that there will not be staff members or tubes avail- able during those times. Tubing costs $2.75 per person or $22.50 for a 10-visit card. Children under 42-inches are admitted free when accom- panied by a paid adult. Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill is locat- ed at 841 Wilderness Run Road in Eagan. More information is available at 651-675- 5511 or www.cityofeagan.com. C;M K Cedar Avenue work will cost $6.3 million less than expected 4 CEDAR FROM Ni lion on an addition to a fleet storage building in 2010 when bids came back lower than ex- pected. On the Cedar Avenue proj- ect, it's particularly convenient since the county is still fishing for $9 million to complete the first phase of the Cedar Ave- nue bus rapid transit project by 2012. County transportation di- rector Mark Krebsbach said he will bring a plan back to the board about how the mon- ey saved on construction may be used. "Some of that will be set aside for a contingency," Krebsbach said. "Other fund- ing may be available for rein- vestment in other portions of the project." The Cedar Avenue proj- ect draws funding from more than a dozen sources, some of which specify exactly what the money can pay for, so money can only be shifted to anoth- er part of the project if it meets the same criteria. The $9 million the county is still seeking would help pay for right-of-way, buses, construc- tion of stations and mainte- nance and layover facilities. When the $118 million first phase of the project is com- plete, Cedar Avenue between Lakeville and Bloomington will be dotted with stations, some park -and -rides and oth- er features geared toward pe- destrians. The system is meant to mimic a light rail train, with buses running between sta- tions in a designated lane mul- tiple times an hour. Express buses, now used by many commuters, will contin- ue. Utility work in the corridor began in 2010. Road construc- tion will start this spring south of County Road 42 and then ex- tend north of there in 2012. The county received five bids for the Cedar Avenue work — all of them less expen- sive than the estimated proj- ect cost. Shafer Contracting, chosen by the board for the Cedar Av- enue work, recently worked on another high -profile coun- ty road construction project on County Road 42. "They got it done in very quick fashion," Krebsbach said. "We think they'll do a good job moving this project forward to meet the aggressive schedule." County Board Chairman Joe Harris said, "This is a project that we've worked on for a long time. It's going to be a joy to see it completed over the next cou- ple years." Katie Humphrey • 952-882-9056 e t • •usiness . ec e not return calls seeking com- ment on the issue. The city's goal is to build a sustainable village with senior • • . e it did not have a complete proj- ect or development lined up to break ground and make use of the land. a new city bonding bill? Look for expanded coverage of local government now in the pages of the Star Tribune. StarTribune corn were riy%lt there with you. •• .1, ^ 1 ... - year if the economy picks up enough strength. "The recession has definite- ly been our biggest problem," el • 'After nearly three years of litigation, we are confident that this ruling removes the le- gal uncertainty so that the re - all -day kindergarten? Look for expanded coverage of local schools now in the pages of the Star Tribune. StarTribune were right there with you •. .5 • •- sum •• process. The December ruling fol- lowed another ruling last sum- mer that affirmed the city's au - ready to go. Like everybody, we are products of the economy." Herbn Marquez • 952-707-9994 This week on • "PureFit & "PureRelax Memoryfoam beds by Relax The Back * 20 ear ,$arranty 13945 Aldrich Ave. 5. Burnsville, MN 952.641.6111 Cedar Grove holdouts nearing end of the line • A court decision upheld Eagan's use of eminent domain for redevelopment, but three business may not go quietly. By HERON MARQUEZ ESTRADA hme@startribune.com After years of planning and legal battles, the long-awaited Cedar Grove development in Eagan seems to be obstacle -free. A major barrier was removed late last month when the Minneso- ta Court of Appeals upheld a low- er court ruling in the city's favor in an eminent domain case brought by three businesses who did not want to be moved for the project. But that does not mean the busi- nesses are going quietly. They still have until the end of this month to decide whether to petition the state Supreme Court to review last month's ruling. Eagan continues on N3 ► A'.,..,...:..avLc1 u: we state. ly, the The hotel changed its name Butte. to the Nicollet Inn on the first ture d of the month. Krem Located at 14201 Nicollet By Av. S., the hotel was in serious get need of a facelift, said Nathan "Best Kremer, director of sales and front marketing for the Nicollet. certai "The second floor looked Prem like it was still in 1990," as ha Kremer said of the hotel, are m which is more than 25 years To old. the Blithe Hotels Group, impr: which owns and manages the ovate Nicollet Inn, is spending up- Whe wards of $3 million to upgrade hotel the site, he said. The renova- reall POLICE BLOTTER APPLE VALLEY HASTIN DEC. 27 DEC. 27 Assault. An assault was reported in the ThefL Too 15000 block of Glazier Avenue. the 3500 . DEC.28 DEC.28 Forgery. A prescription forgery was re- Property ported in the 14300 block of Garland were da Avenue. rant, 109 Theft. A theft from a vehicle was re- DEC. 31 ported in the 15700 block of Hanover Theft. So Path. dow and DEC.29 book and Theft. Shoplifting was reported in the 14th Stre: 15300 block of Cedar Avenue. DEC. 30 ROSEM Forgery. Check forgery was reported in DEC. 27 the 14900 block of Florence Trail. Theft. A Theft. Police investigated a report of ported in a vehicle theft in the 15700 block of Path. Flackwood Trail. Burglary. JAN. 1 the 3300 Theft. A theft was reported in the 7300 DEC. 29 block of W. 153rd Street. Weapons EAGAN JAN. 4 Th of firear ed felon i 147th Str Eagan E-TV wins national awards Eagan's cable station is a partnership with Thomson Reuters by Erin Johnson test Promo" video. TH[SWEEKNEWSPAPERS The historical reenact - The city of Eagan's cable ment video was also nomi- access station has garnered nated in two categories for a several accolades since its regional Emmy. debut in 2009. Eagan Television, or Last spring it was hon- E-TV, is a four -person stu- ored by the Humphrey In- dio operating out of an stitute's Public and Non- 870-square-foot space in the profit Leadership Center lower level of the Thomson for its unique public -private Reuters Eagan campus. partnership with Thomson The city is proud to have Reuters. received the awards, said Now the station has won Tom Garrison, Eagan's di - two first -place awards in rector of communications. government programming "Building on the suc- from the National Asso- cess of E-TV's award for ciation of Telecommunica- government innovation, to tions Officers and Advisors. have now received the high- NATOA serves as the na- est honors in the country tional trade association for in two categories from our community television sta- peers in community televi- tions. sion is another sign that The first award, for we're building something best promotion of a city, special in the programming was given to Eagan for its available on Eagan Televi- 150th anniversary/Found- sion," he said. er's Day historical reenact- ment video, and the other Erin Johnson is at eagan. was awarded for the city's thisweek@ecm-inc.com. "Make Me a Monster Con- Disappearing hotel Will get new sign t Pokes over noise by John Gessner THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A Burnsville hotel that has liter- ally disappeared behind a new sound wall along Interstate 35W has been granted permission to erect an extra - high, extra -large sign to reannounce its presence to motorists The City Council voted 3-2 Jan. 4 to allow a new pylon sign for the LivINN Hotel at 13080 Aldrich Ave. South, the west I-35W frontage road south of Burnsville Parkway. The new sound wall eliminates Two -hundred squ been a consistent sta community and has other freeway frontag city staff report. The deviation is ju no other Burnsville bu fered such a hardshi geed. "I was on my way to and there I saw the fen Lyke of Rixmann-B noting that the new sigl company nearly $100,( .•r t ee (SO) z_so COVERING THE SOUTHERN SUBURBS WWW.STARTRIBUNE.COM/LOCAL • SECTIO Photos byDAVID I REWSTER • dbrewster@startribune.com Sara Yaeger took a look around the Trinity Lone Oak Lutheran Church Cemetery with her 3-year-old daughter Hannah. Yaeger will be helping Trinity Lone Oak Church record its death and burial records as part of an overall project to help the Dakota County Historical Society. CHURCH LOOKS TO PRESERVE ITS PAST By HERON MARQUEZ ESTRADA hme@startribune.com n a far corner of Trinity Lone Oak Cemetery in Eagan sits a group of grave markers long obscured by vegetation, ne- glect and time. The names and dates of births and deaths are gone. But many in the congregation at Trinity Lone Oak Lutheran Church believe the seven markers belong to a group of chil- dren, all from the same family, who died during an outbreak — malaria, flu or black plague, perhaps — in the early part of last century. The confusion and mystery sur- rounding these markers comes about because the cemetery, one of the old- est in Dakota County, does not have a lot of its burial records, having lost them over the decades to fire, mis- placement or bad luck. The most re- cent map of the plots dates to 1974, Trinity Lone Oak in Eagan is embarking on a project to collect cemetery records for future use. The top of a page from a Death Register from 1898 at Trinity Lone Oak Church. The church is one of the oldest in the county, and it hopes to collect records and oral histories. church officials said. But thanks to a state grant, the church will begin next month to re- store and archive as many records and as much burial information as it can for the cemetery, and then pro- vide a copy of all the records to the Dakota County Historical Society. "We are one of the oldest [church- es] in the county," said the Rev. James Kroonblawd, Trinity Lone Oak's pas- tor. "It will be nice to map out the cemetery. There are a lot of stories behind every one of these individ- uals who are buried here. We hope to garner some of those stories with this research." Among them is the mystery of the seven grave markers, which sur- round a larger grave. This site is near a grief garden the church started to help members deal with pregnancy and infant losses. Cemetery continues on AA6 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2011 (SO) re Plaine Communi- Pool site?" is can be sent to i.belleplaine.mn.us ntion Park Board" ect line or submit- elle Plaine Govern- er. Responses are re - Jan. 31. GTON drive Saturday of America ine-based nonprofit ion will present what as "The Biggest Di- ve in America" on at the Mall of Ameri- omington. onprofit, the Diaper as started last May to ovide needy families pers. oal of Saturday's event llect 200,000 diapers aise public awareness he need. It will take om 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in t Buy rotunda. mber of activities are led, including a "Dolly Changing Contest," a Like a Baby" seminar for ents, a baby yoga class ious kids' activities. Diaper Drive accepts isposable and cloth from newborn to es. Diapers are donat- tly to emergency shel- d shelves, nursing ser- d other services aid - se in need, the organi- ays. rther information, go thediaperdrive.org. OUNT trail coming Diamond Path estrians and bicyclists in ount have something to about. Plans are under- r the construction of a ong the east side of Dia- Path from County Road onnemara Trail. Rosemount City Coun- proved a joint powers ent with Dakota Coun- authorized preparation s for the trail last week. t summer, the city re- d county funding for ction of the trail. In No- er, the county approved oject. sign and easement acqui- will begin this year. Con - ion will start in 2012. e city will take the lead project, which is expect - cost a little more than 000. The city is responsi- r 45 percent of the cost. throughout Tome ELIZABETH FLORES • eflores@startribune.com Volunteers organized diapers last summer as part of a collection ef- fort in Blaine. A Blaine -based nonprofit is organizing "The Biggest Diaper Drive in America" on Saturday at the Mall of America. SOUTHEAST METRO Blizzard can't stifle spirit of generosity The Canadian Pacific Holi- day Train was supposed to ar- rive in Cottage Grove on Dec. ll — right when 20 inches of snow was falling, forcing can- cellation of the annual fund- raising event. The weather may have been frightful, but it did not dimin- ish the spirit and generosity of Cottage Grove and nearby communities. Donations of cash, food and toiletries still poured in, ex- ceeding the $50,000 goal. The $71,987.48 raised represents a 22 percent increase over 2009, and with the support of local businesses, the cities of Cot- tage Grove, Newport, St. Paul Park and the Cottage Grove Ar- ea Chamber of Commerce, the administrative expense for the fundraising and the event was less than 1 percent. schools NEW PRAGUE Former district employee appointed to school board The New Prague school board has appointed a former district employee to its ranks. Tim Rybak joins the board this year, replacing Trista Ro- bischon, who resigned last month because she is moving out of state. The board appointed Rybak on Dec. 13 without formally blotter EAGAN JAN. 5 Theft. A caller in the 3500 block of Wood- land Trail reported the theft of mail, in- cluding an IRA account statement. Fraud. Credit card fraud was reported in the 4100 block of Pilot Knob Road. Fraud. A customer at Kwik Tip, 3145 Dodd Road, used a stolen and altered check. An employee got a description and li- cense plate number of the suspect's ve- hicle. A theft from a vehicle was report - More than 10,000 pounds of food and toiletries were col- lected. RICHFIELD Update on project to end homelessness Cathy ten Broeke, project co- ordinator for the Office to End Homelessness in Minneapo- lis and Hennepin County, will speak at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Augsburg Park Library, 7100 Nicollet Av. in Richfield. She will discuss the "Head- ing Home Hennepin Plan," de- veloped by business and civic leaders and others; its goal is to end homelessness in Minneap- olis and Hennepin County by 2016. The plan is in the fourth year of a 10-year timeline. A coffee will begin at 10 a.m. KATIE HUMPHREY, JIM ADAMS and NICOLE NORFLEET seeking or interviewing any other candidates for the po- sition. Until recently, Rybak was director of operations for the school district, said Superin- tendent Craig Menozzi. Rybak started a new job last month in the Elk River School District, Menozzi said. Robischon's term runs through 2013. Rybak will serve on the board until after the No- vember election, when voters will choose someone to serve the rest of the term. SARAH LEMAGIE a 14-year-old boy from Shakopee was ha- rassing her with text messages. Police told the boy to stop. DEC. 31 False alarm. A resident of the 4400 block of W. 137th Street reported that a belt valued at $30 was stolen from her home. She called back later and reported that she had found it. Fraud. A 44-year-old Brooklyn Park man was accused of offering a forged check at a business in the 4300 block of W. Hwy. 13. calendar HEALTH AND FITNESS DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP: 10 a.m. Tue. Free. Diamondhead Educa- tion Center, 200 W. Burnsville Pkwy., Burnsville. 952-707-4120. MUSIC 8 FOOT 4: 9 p.m. Sat. Basement Bar & Grill, 16691 Hwy. 13 5., Prior Lake. 952-226-6040. G.B. LEIGHTON: 9 p.m. Fri. Primetime Sports Bar & Grill, 14103 Irving Av. S., Burnsville. 952-435-6111. POP ROCKS: 9:30 p.m. Fri. Bogart's Place, 14917 Garrett Av., Apple Valley. 952-432-1515. RENEGADE ENSEMBLE: 7:30 p.m. Fri. Free. Inver Hills Community College, 2500 E. 80th St., Inver Grove Heights. 612-626-8742. SARAH HAWBECKER: Organ recital. 7 p.m. Tue. Boe Memorial Chapel, 1520 St. Olaf Av., Northfield. 1-507- 786-3180. STRANGE DAZE: 9 p.m. today. Primetime Sports Bar & Grill, 14103 Irving Av. S., Burnsville. 952-435- 6111. arts NORTHFIELD Odd kisses are focus of original play A collection of five origi- nal mini -plays built around the idea of strange kisses is coming to the Northfield Arts Guild this week. "Kiss Me Weirdly," by playwright Brendon Et- ter, is being presented as a fundraiser for the Arts Guild. Performances are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and Jan. 21-22. The show explores "kiss- es which generally fall out- side cultural norms," ac- cording to a news release; circumstances include "an assassination attempt, a brutally bitter box, some thoughtful therapy, a solo seat saga and a marital mag- istrate." The cast will include Etter, Adam Andreasen, Tom Ett, Hannah France, Ian Hathway, Tania Larson Legvold, Mickey Morstad, Megan Proft, Samrina Sabri and Shari Setchell. Tickets are $10 and are available at the Arts Guild's Center for the Arts at 304 S. Division St., online at northfieldartsguild.org or by phone at 507-645-8877. TOMMY REX AND CONCENTUAL: 9 p.m. Fri. Basement Bar & Grill, 16691 Hwy. 13 S., Prior Lake. 952-226-6040. THEATER CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES 2 - A SECOND HELPING!: The ladies in the basement serve up a heaping help- ing of hotdish, homilies and humor. 7:30 p.m. Thu. $34-$39. Burnsville Per- forming Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Av. S., Burnsville. 952-895-4685. ART THE ART OF SIGHT, SOUND AND HEART — VISUALIZING JAPANESE THEATER: Prints, carved masks, paintings, figurines, netsuke and other works highlight Kabuki and Noh objects and other images from the 18th through the 20th century. Ends March 9. Carleton College Art Gallery, 1 N. College St., Northfield. 1-507-646-4000. LYRICAL ARRANGEMENTS: Paintings by Richard Kochenash. Ends Feb. 2. Savage Art Studios, 4735 W. 123rd St., Savage. 952-895-0375. SHAKOPEE Photo preservation workshop planned The Scott County His- torical Society is planning a workshop on preserving old photos at 6:30-8 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Stans Museum, 234 Fuller St. S. in Shakopee. The session will help with identifying the differ- ent photographic processes used to produce old photos, from the earliest photos to the present. It also will cov- er photo handling and stor- age techniques, and how to properly preserve photos. Participants are encour- aged to bring old photos to the session. Cost of the workshop is $8, or $5 for Historical Soci- ety members. Register with Shakopee Community Edu- cation at 952-496-5029. For more information on the Historical Society, call 952-445-0378 or e-mail info @scottcountyhistoryorg. Or go to www scottcounty history.org. FROM STAFF REPORTS Send your south -metro arts and lei- sure news to dylan.belden@startrib une.com. south S T A R T R I B U N E. C O M/ L O C A L CONTACT THE STAFF Team leader • Dylan Belden 952-882-4938 dbelden@startribune.com Scott County • David Peterson 952-882-9023 dapeterson@startribune.com Dakota County • Katie Humphrey AA6 • SOUTH EXTRA • STAR TRIBUNE • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2011 (SO) CHURCH LOOKS TO PRESERVE ITS PAST CEMETERY FROM AA1 Church officials say some of the older members remember a time when epidemics swept through the community, perhaps 80 or more years ago. "We understand that there was black plague or small pox in the community and entire families lost everybody, all their children died," the pastor said. "So this one family lost all seven kids. Those kinds of stories are out there. `As we talk to our older mem- bers, they have some of these [sto- ries], but not written down. So we just have to listen." A little help The $2,125 grant — which comes from the state's Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment funding — is not much, but it will allow the church to obtain software to map the cemetery and gather person- al information on who is buried in Trinity Lone Oak, which opened perhaps in the 1870s. Sara Yaeger, a researcher, will be doing part of the work for the church. She will be getting the soft- ware needed for the records and compiling the databases for the church. The Historical Society said there about 70 to 75 cemeteries in the county, about half of them affiliat- ed with churches. The society has about 20,000 tombstone transcrip- tions in the database to which Trin- ity Lone Oak will be contributing with its project. Yaeger said there is a growing need and a demand for the data, es- pecially as more people get into do- ing genealogical research on their families. "The church has lost a lot of its records," Yaeger said, but "there is institutional memory. I just would like to get it [written] down." Yaeger and the pastor say the church gets two or three visits a week from people wanting gene- alogical information about their families. "We don't really have the old, old records," said Leonard Perron, a pa- rishioner who manages the ceme- tery. "There are spots that we don't know if anybody's buried there." Sometimes the church can help with what few records it has. But often researchers and church offi- cials must rely on older parishio- ners at Trinity. "A lot of the carvings have weath- ered away," Kroonblawd said, refer- ring to the cemetery grave mark- ers. "We want to ensure that peo- ple who are buried here are remem- bered, and this [project] is one way to do it." Heron Marquez • 952-707-9994 Photos by DAVID BREWSTER • dbrewster@startribune.com Sara Yaeger studied a tombstone at Trinity Lone Oak Lutheran Church Cemetery. "The church has lost a lot of its records," said Yaeger, a researcher. "There is institutional memory. I just would like to get it [written] down." A page in the Trinity Lone Oak Lutheran Church Death Register for the year 1900. Yaeger said there is a growing demand for the data. (� THERE ARE A LOT OF STORIES BEHIND EVERY ONE OF THESE INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE BURIED HERE. WE HOPE TO GARNER SOME OF THOSE STORIES. �) The Rev. James Kroonblawd, Trinity Lone Oak's pastor (SO) WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2011 • STAR TRIBUNE • SOUTH EXTRA • AA5 Rosemount gives residents more time to shovel sidewalks SHOVELING FROM AA1 If a property owner has been notified and snow still has not been removed, the city can remove the snow and charge the owner. Currently, the city is clearing sight lines at street intersections. Other cities' problems While Rosemount may be one of the only south -of -the -river cities making changes to its snow removal ordinance, many other cities have had problems with the unusual amount of snow early in the season. "We're still hauling," said Tom Montgomery, public works director for Hastings. Right now, the city is doing general clean- up and trying to widen the plowed areas along streets, he said. On its official website and Facebook page in December, the city asked for patience from resi- dents in allowing it to remove the snow. In Eagan, trails were only 50 percent cleared early last week, according to Tim Plath, trans- portation and operations engineer. The city is responsible for clearing all sidewalks and trails in town. "We're making progress every day, but it's just a slow go right now," he said. One of the lessons learned from the storms was that the city needs specialized equipment to be able to tackle the trails, Plath said. A lot of times plows were ineffective, he said. But buying new equipment is subject to budget constraints, he said. John Mazzitello, public works director for Mendota Heights, said last month's storms caused the city to go over budget in its snow re- moval costs. "What we had slated for snow removal, we spent a little more than we were anticipating. But we were able to cover it," he said. Nicole Norfleet • 612-673-4495 ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE Big question: Would a sports Dakota, Scott counties pick dome really pay for itself? Harris, Wolf as chairs for 2011 4 DOME FROM AA1 At this early stage, "No de- cisions have been made. Even the site isn't a foregone con- clusion," Stock said. The proposal would include a 200-by-320-foot inflatable dome with one large artificial turf field that could be divided so that several games could go on simultaneously, according to Stock. It would accommo- date soccer, lacrosse, football, softball, baseball and track. An 8,000-square-foot hard shell attached structure would house restrooms, concessions, offices, changing rooms and storage. A couple of outdoor grass playing fields are also SPORTS DOME DREAM Youth sports groups are pushing for a sports dome where soccer and other sports could be played year-round. make more sense to put it somewhere else. "I just feel it's an odd place for something that generates so much traffic," she said. Brian Flakne, a co-chair- man of the Savage Dome Task Force, responded, "The task force has listened to the community's concerns," add- ing, "We're moving forward to address them in a sensitive and intelligent fashion." The dome task force, which includes representatives from the Burnsville Athletic Club (BAC), Prior Lake Athletics for Youth (PLAY) and the Pri- or Lake Soccer Club, pitched the idea to Savage last sum- mer, citin: a high demand for 4 BOARDS FROM AA1 "The fun stuff is over and the new year is up- on us," Harris said, noting concern about fall- ing property values and state budget woes. "I might sound like doom and gloom is upon us, but to the contrary, this county board has already made some tough decision to protect future budgets." Harris replaces Com- missioner Tom Egan, who rattled off a list of 2010 Joe Harris, accomplishments — a Dakota County smooth election, planning board chair for a new county park and progress on Cedar Ave- nue bus rapid transit — before turning over the gavel. "We did all this in the shadow of loom - Tom Wolf, Scott County board chain parts of Savage and the southeastern exurbs and rural areas, has been on the county board since 2009. He replaces Commission- er Barbara Marschall as the board's leader for 20ll. Newly elected Scott County Commissioner Dave Menden, a former sheriff who ran on a pledge to cut taxes, also joined the board this month. He defeated incumbent Jerry Hennen in the November election. Menden said he's looking forward to rep- resenting the citizens and working with Scott County employees, then ended his brief re- marks. "That's all I have because I'm sure you'll hear me enough up there," Menden said with a nod toward the dais. Eagan wants to be home to major Internet, data hub by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The city of Eagan has long understood the importance of broadband infrastruc- ture in maintaining and attracting busi- nesses. Now the city is looking to become the home of a major data center, called a co - location facility, that would be shared by the state's major providers. City officials believe the region and the state are underserved by such facilities, Colocation facility would be only second of its kind in state also called carrier hotels. The only current example is located in the 511 building in downtown Minneapolis. That building acts as the hub for be- tween 40 and 50 different Internet and data providers, and questions loom about what would happen if that facility went down. "If something happened to that, we really would have a communications problem in the whole region and state of Minnesota," said City Administrator {/IY//toil Tom Hedges. That scenario could have major con- sequences for Eagan's businesses, includ- ing Thomson Reuters, a major software provider, and the Delta Airlines data center. "They just couldn't afford to have down time if something happened to the 511 building in Minneapolis," he said. A second major colocation facility would provide security and redundancy to the 511 building, adding more path- ways in and out of the Twin Cities. Members of the city's technology working group, as well as the Chamber of Commerce, have been vocal supporters of bringing a colocation facility to Eagan. According to a report released by the city's technology consultant, Design Nine, such a facility would not only provide bet- ter and more secure space for servers and data storage, but would also help drive down the cost of Internet access and oth- See Hub, I1A .s' One Hour Therapeutic Massage sidering plowing ana ice control policy changes that include a different standard for replacing mailboxes. The city now replaces any mailbox felled by a plow itself or by snow pushed by a plow. Under a change pro- posed by city staff, the city would replace only mail- boxes actually struck by a plow. That and other changes for Burnsville are recom- a scat 1V1 111a11UVA wr=� ments, said Bud Osmund- son, public works director and city engineer. "Our Public Works De- partment spends a ton of time on mailboxes, on fix- ing them," he told council members at a Jan. 11 work session. An average mailbox might cost $75 to replace, but more elaborate boxes — some surrounded by rock landscaping — can cost far "Our policies have many of the same purposes and procedures that are in the LMCIT model, but the LMCIT model also in- cludes many improvements over our policies," said a city staff report. A council vote on pro- posed changes is expected Feb. 22. John Gessner is at burnsville. thisweek@ecm-inc. com. Hub/from lA er broadband services for Eagan businesses. It would also enhance Eagan's ability to both at- tract new businesses and retain existing businesses, the report said. "The presence of these types of facilities tends to make other data centers and high-tech businesses cluster around them," said Eagan Communications Director Tom Garrison. The City Council ap- proved a resolution sup- porting such a facility Jan. 4 and directed staff to start a request for propos- als for companies interest- ed in building the facility. Several companies have already expressed inter- est in the project, Hedges said. The city owns a par- cel of land in the fiber - rich northeast area that it thinks would make a great location, and city staff is working on putting to- gether an incentive pack- age for the project, which will include up to $2 mil- lion in non -tax revenue. The city is also plan- ning to expand fiber to all its commercial and busi- THISWEEK January 14, 2011 1 I A ness areas over the next three to five years. That fiber would be city owned, but available for lease to providers. The colocation facility itself would be carrier - neutral, so any provider would be able to use it. Eagan has some sig- nificant local and regional advantages for such a fa- cility, according to De- sign Nine, with its close proximity to the Twin Cities, and its location on east -west fiber routes and much -needed fiber routes south to St. Louis, Mem- phis, and Denver. The firm also talked to data centers that said they see Eagan as an excel- lent business opportunity, with a substantial mix of large, medium, and small companies that would be potential customers. But the facility would be just as important for retaining existing busi- nesses, Hedges said. "We have a responsibil- ity to make sure that we're advocating for any and all options for the high-tech community," he said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 2A January 14, 2011 MVHCIfrom 1A the same complaint, said District 38 Sen. Ted Daley, R-Eagan. The previous Burnsville - area legislative delegation — which consisted mostly of Democrats — "absolute- ly failed" to move the needle on the issue, Council Mem- ber Dan Kealey said. "It's a makeable putt for this group" of Republicans and the new Republican majorities in both houses of Schedule/from IA THISWEEK the Legislature, Kealey said. A reform bill got no hearing last year in the House, then controlled by the DFL, said District 37A Rep. Tara Mack, R-Apple Valley. She said she promoted the measure and is happy to do it again, though she isn't sure where the new House Tax Committee chair stands on the issue. "We've been dealing with this for so long, and what I really want is to see some "But they will have more to choose from as they move toward eighth grade," he said. Sixth -graders will con- tinue to alternate each day among art, technical sci- ence and family consumer science. They will also have a fourth elective every day. Meanwhile, seventh - and eighth -graders will have to choose from among art, tech and FACS among other choices each trimes- ter. Seventh -graders will be allowed two electives per trimester, while eighth - graders will be able to se- lect three. Additiona taking it all year. During a public forum held Dec. 2 at Falcon Ridge Middle School, some par- ents expressed concerns about reducing physical education requirements — particularly in light of in- creased childhood obesity. Others voiced concerns about potentially limiting students' exposure to fine arts and foreign language. The district's magnet schools, though, would continue to have a foreign language focus. Despite some concerns, most parents supported the changes. "I think everyone agrees we're on the right path," Board Member Art Coul- Future of art park may be in question • Caponi Art Park in Eagan needs help in order to outlive its founder. By HERON MARQUEZ ESTRADA hme@startribune.com At age 89, Anthony Caponi is still passionate about and protective of the 60-acre outdoor art park he cre- ated around his home in Eagan more \ than 30 years ago. ►` But the sculptor and former ^V Macalester College professor also is (J aware that he and the nonprofit orga- nization that now runs the Caponi Art Park and Learning Center must pre- pare for the day when he is no long- er around. "It's been an ongoing issue," said Juli Seydell Johnson, a member of the Caponi Art Park board and Eagan's director of parks and recreation. "It's just a big unknown." That is why Caponi and the park's board of directors recently began talks with Dakota County about succession planning for the popu- lar attraction, which last year drew a record 15,000 people from around the state and beyond. Caponi continues on N4 ► minigiimmommionsurnie-urIon star ribune.com building a deal: to Burnsville C In Lakeville, ment has bee build a 150,000- store that will ies along with chandise. It is estimate Mart will spen in Minnesota to more stores ov five to eight ye. Wa1-Mart has stores in A Eagan, West St Inver Grove He' When the news broke earlier this month that An- sari's Mediterranean Grill and Lounge in Eagan had caught fire, numerous fans of the family -run restaurant took to its Facebook page to offer their sympathies. "My entire family has loved coming to your res- taurant. Wishing you the best of luck moving for- ward from this," one per- son wrote. "I'm going to miss go- ing here. This is the spot for the suburbanites. Can't wait until you can rebuild," said another. Ansari fans may have something to smile about. The restaurant hopes to reopen within the next two to three months, said co- owner Ramsey Ansari. After reviewing the damage from the Feb. 9 fire, the owners have con- cluded that they can stay at the restaurant's current location at 1960 Rahncliff Court, near Interstate 35E. The fire appears to have been caused by a heating unit above the bathrooms, Ansari said. The attic was the only part of the build- ing to actually burn, but there was also damage to the bathroom, bar, a few ta- bles and his office, he said. There was also water dam - to one of the televisions Senior housing coming to App Nonprofit s: ing company expanding its A living options. Ecumen ple Valley w• Tuesday. The s: ing developme 134 one- and tw apartments f. looking for in or assisted liv will also be 14 one -bedroom for those lookin ory care. Ecumen co idents will hav on -site ameniti: movie theater, dio and a salon sage therapy. The 220,000- community will in the pedestr STAR TRIBUNE FILE Sculptor and former Macalester College professor Anthony Caponi is seen with one of his creations at the Caponi Art Park and Learning Center in Eagan. He founded the park more than 30 years ago. Caponi art park looks to future 41 CAPONI FROM Ni "We do serve more than just the county," Caponi said. "I just want to reassure people that this will continue. The park will not disappear." Earlier this month, the County Board and county staff members began discussing the future of the park after receiv- ing a letter from Craig Har- ris, president of the art park's board of directors. In the letter, Harris out- lined several issues facing the arts park, the most pressing of which is a mortgage of hun- dreds of thousands of dollars due next month that the non- profit cannot afford to pay. "It [is] unlikely that the Art Park board will be able to raise funds to secure the land from private sources only," Harris said in the letter. "In light of the current situation, we are left with the only option of channeling our efforts through local government." A labor of love Caponi and his wife, Cher- yl, have been shaping and cre- ating the art park for more than 30 years, with the sculp- tor sprinkling the rolling hills with his art works. The en- deavor has grown to include an amphitheater as well as art classes on site. In 2004, the city, county and state combined to purchase 30 of the original 60 acres for about $2 million to preserve it as open land. A mortgage covering the remaining 30 acres was tak- en out by the art park's board of directors. But Harris point- ed out that the board has not made any payments since that time. That is because the mort- gage is owned by the Caponi family, which has allowed the board a great deal of financial latitude. The Caponis, for ex- ample, have already extend- ed the due date by one year and expect to extend it anoth- er year if necessary, Anthony Caponi said recently. But if the board were to de- fault, the land would revert to the Caponi family. That, Har- ris wrote, could produce ma- jor headaches and possibly lead to legal issues, especially if something were to happen to Anthony Caponi. "If the ownership of the land reverts back tot he Caponi family, it could undo all that we have accomplished over the years," Harris said. "If the land is not secured while Mr. Caponi is still alive, the park may be exposed to con- flicting claims by his heirs." That is why not only the county but also the city of Eagan and state agencies have been looking for ways to come up with the money to purchase the remaining 30 acres. "If it's complicated now, it could get more complicated," Cheryl Caponi said. Thus far, things do not look promising. The county pro- gram that works to obtain con- servation easements is almost out of money. And the art park, because of its unique nature of being privately owned, has not qualified to receive Lega- cy Amendment funds aimed at land conservation. "It's a great amenity," said Dakota County Commission- er Nancy Schouweiler, whose district covers the art park. "It's an important piece of property to continue to pro- tect." Hereon Marquez • 952-707-9994 A : 9 p.m. Sat. Basement Bar & Grill, 16691 Hwy. 13 S., Prior Lake. 952-226-6040. TRACEY BLAKE PROJECT: 9 p.m. Wed. Primetime Sports Bar & Grill, 14103 Irving Av. ease fundraiser S., Burnsville. 952-435-6111. 5. Bloomington . Old Shakopee THEATER 2. ALMOST MAINE: A mythical town's residents . Fri. Bogart's find themselves falling in and out of love in ple Valley. 952- strange ways. 7:30 p.m. Thu. -Fri.; 2 p.m. Sat. $5-$10. Normandale Community College, 9700 TRA: 8 p.m. Fri. France Av. S., Bloomington. 952-487-7462. II, 1 N. College BROADWAY 2011 "BLUE": 2 p.m. Sunday. $5- $9. Apple Valley High School, 14450 Hayes orts Bar & Grill, Road, Apple Valley. 952-431-8208. 952-435-6111. JOHN CAPONERA: 8 p.m. Wed. -Thu., next HE 40s: Songs Sun.; 8 & 10:30 p.m. Fri. -Sat. $13-$19. Rick ith Arne Fo- Bronson's House of Comedy, 8100 24th Av. S., ennifer Eckes. Bloomington. 952-858-8558. omington Cen- THE LAND OF OZ: Find out what happened af- Shakopee Rd., ter Dorothy left. 7 p.m. Thu. -Fri. $3-$5. Sim - ley High School, 2920 80th St. E., Inver Grove At the Circus," Heights. 651-306-3633. p.m. next Sun. r for the Arts, ART omington. 952- THE ART OF SIGHT, SOUND AND HEART — VI- SUALIZING JAPANESE THEATER: Prints, carved sement Bar & masks, paintings, figurines, netsuke and oth- Lake. 952-226- er works highlight Kabuki and Noh objects and other images from the 18th through the rt House, 11287 20th century. Ends March 9. Carleton College 5-7156. Art Gallery, Northfield. 1-507-646-4000. ns fall continues with a program, Pri- oritize Prosecutions in Schools, to work with police and schools in swiftly charging offenses that occur at school activities. Backstrom continues his an- ti -bullying initiative, begun in 2002, and also warns students about crimes related to tech- nology. "Making good choices about sending a text message, e-mail or other form of technology is very important for kids today," he said. Some kids who use alcohol or small amounts of marijua- na or commit low-level prop- erty crimes are referred to var- ious "accountability programs" rather than being prosecuted. Last year, 931 juvenile offend- ers were referred rather than sent to juvenile court. Dakota County also has a ju- venile drug court with "prob- lem -solving" intervention for addicted youths. In that pro- yo e Av. in Lakeville. For more infor- mation, call 952-985-4640. ROSEMOUNT Spring gardening expo March 12 Get in the mood for some gardening with the "Let's Get Growing! Spring Expo" March 12, hosted by the University of Min- nesota Extension Master Gardeners of Da- kota County at the Rosemount Communi- ty Center. The event, scheduled for 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., will feature keynote speaker Debbie Lonnee, a production coordinator at Bailey Nurseries and horticultural editor of Northern Gardener Magazine. Admission to the expo is $35 and will in- clude all classes and handouts, plus morn- ing refreshments. Space is limited and registration is required. Ca11 651-480-7700 or go to wwwletsgetgrowing.net for more infor- mation. The Rosemount Community Cen- ter is located at 13885 S. Robert Trail. STAFF REPORTS JUVENILE OFFENSES CREEP DOWNWARD Even though the population has risen slightly in the age group 10 to 17 in the past decade, juvenile crimes' charged are dropping. ALL 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 JUVENILE OFFENSES 2002:2,070 2010:1,445 '90 '92 '94 '96 '98 '00 '02 '04 '06 '08 '10 *Juvenile crimes include petty misdemeanors and all misdemeanors, gross mis- demeanors and felonies committed by those under the age of 18 in Dakota County. Source. Dakota County Attomey's Office gram at any given time last year were 12 to 15 young people whose cases involved drugs or alcohol as a major contributing factor for criminal behavior. Then there's the peer court, which began in 2000 in seven high schools. Teens serve as ju- rors to resolve juvenile offens- es in their community. Last year, Backstrom's ju- venile and protective services Star Tribune division opened 3,470 files in- volving delinquency, truancy and protective services. That's a 16 percent decline from the 4,114 files opened in 2009. The number of violent charg- es also are down by 12 percent, which Backstrom calls "a pos- itive reflection of the overall safety of our community" Joy Powell • 952-882-9017 ent of an Fagan High School senior. Staff cuts would include eliminating 26 middle school teaching positions, one part- time social work position, one school administrator posi- tion, six full-time equivalent district -level itinerant teacher positions, one full-time dis- trictwide administrator, three FTE clerical positions, four FTE paraprofessional posi- tions and four FTE positions from the facilities department. The middle school posi- tions would be cut through re- structuring made possible by the reduction in class periods, which was approved by the board in January. The district has already cut 152 jobs in the past two years as a result of limited state funding, District 196 Superin- tendent Jane Berenz said. The staff cuts for the 2011- 2012 school year could be a combination of layoffs and attrition, said Tony Taschner, communications director for District 196. A recently approved incen- tive of $15,000 each for 74 teachers retiring early could prevent some layoffs since it resulted in a higher than aver- age number of retirements, he said. All residents said they view 2A March 11, 2011 THISWEEK Cuts/from 1A the job cuts as necessary due to the district's current fund- ing shortages. Apple Valley City Council Member Clint Hooppaw said he believes potential layoffs are simply a sign of the times, noting that private businesses face the same difficult deci- sions Residents said they favor the district's proposal to re- duce transportation services, which would include increas- ing eligible service distances by one-half mile for all stu- dents This change would not affect the district's exemp- tion for students living near busy streets, such as County Road 42 and Cedar Avenue, or transportation to magnet schools, which is paid with integration funding. A few district residents were in favor of increasing eligible service distances to two miles for all students, noting that it would help students exercise more. The district has resisted this in the past due to con- cerns about young students walking that distance. Leah Goldstein Moses, a parent of two Deerwood El- ementary students, suggested that district officials should reach out to parents interested in forming volunteer crossing guard teams to help young students safely cross busy THIS SUNDAY @ CELEBRATION Kilpatrick 9:30 & 11 am • Bob is an internationally known speaker, songwriter (In My Life Lord Be Glorified), author, radio personality and communicator. celebrationchurch,net 952.898.7200 16655 Kenyon Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 roads. In addition to program, staff and transportation re- ductions, a $10 per day cut to substitute teachers' pay imple- mented this school year will remain in place next school year. Becky Haage, a substitute teacher for District 196, said she felt district officials per- ceive the pay cut as "no big deal." "That was a real slap in the face," Haage said. "High school kids make more than us who went to college for four years." Substitute teachers in Dis- trict 196 earn $100 a day. Although District 196 will likely face cuts next school year, officials will be able to avoid cutting another $5 mil- lion by using federal educa- tion jobs funding that be- came available last year. Proposed budget ad- justments for the 2011-12 school year will total $8.5 million, based on the as- sumption that state officials will cut education funding by 3.5 percent. This will be the third consecutive year the district will face budget reductions, which officials say are due to years of flat state fund- ing combined with account- ing shifts. The state has withheld $68 million in funding over the past two years, accord- ing to district officials. As a result, the district had to impose $10 million in budget adjustments for the 2008-09 school year and $15.3 million for the 2010- 11 school year. When asked if they would favor a levy refer- endum next year to avoid future budget cuts, most residents in the focus groups said they would, but added that district officials would need to rework their mes- sage. "Too many people felt it was a threat (last Novem- ber)," Hooppaw said. "We need to put a better message out there — one that looks at the positive, not the nega- tive." E-mail Jessica Harper at: jessica.harper@ecm-inc.com Heroes/from l A her scalp, fractures in her face and pelvis, and severe fractures in her right leg and ankle. She also suffered a sprained ankle, knee liga- ment tear, mild concussion, and "many, many bruises." She endured six surger- ies and, unable to walk, required 24-hour care for weeks after she was released from the hospital. As she progressed in her recovery and began to walk again, Moberg knew she wanted to show her grati- tude to those who rescued her. She wrote an impas- sioned letter to Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott request- ing a meeting with all of the first responders involved in her crash so she could thank them in person. On March 3, she got her wish. A gathering was ar- ranged at the Eagan Police Department so she could meet them face-to-face. "They're truly, in every sense of the word, my he- roes," she said. "If it weren't for them I wouldn't be here. I have an eternal gratitude to them." Moberg had met nine of the firefighters at their annu- al banquet the week before, but said she was so choked up with emotion she could barely talk. At the March 3 gathering she was able to speak one- on-one with several of her rescuers "It was absolutely won- derful to be able to meet them and hug them and thank them," she said. It was also cathartic, she said: Hearing their memo- ries of the crash helped her piece together the events of that night. Eagan firefighter David Ross said this was the first time he was able to meet someone he'd helped rescue. As one of the first fire- fighters on the scene, Ross held Moberg's head and neck throughout the res- cue to stabilize her spine, comfort her, and keep her informed on what was hap- pening as crews worked to free her from the car. "She was an extremely Photo by Erin Kelli Moberg stands with some of the 28 rescuers — police officers, firefighters and paramedics — who responded to her crash. She asked to meet them all so she could thank them in person for the work they did. brave person," he said. "She was calm through the major- ity of the extrication." Ross said he was touched that Moberg wanted to meet her rescuers. "For me it was very re- warding because it's rare to have a follow-up and find out how that person recov- ered," he said. "It felt really good to know she was well on the track to recovery." McDonald agreed that first responders typically don't hear what happens to victims after they're trans- ported from the crash scene. "In my 22 years I can think of a handful of times that people have wanted to come in and meet the of- ficer that helped them. It's rare that we get that face-to- face," he said. "I was pretty moved that she's recognizing the work of the officers." Moberg has not yet been able to return to work, but is continuing to make progress with her physical therapy. She can now use stairs on her own, take a shower, and do some minimal cooking. She Can also drive short distances, but said getting behind the wheel still brings flashbacks and bad memo- ries. "I'm just focusing on what I can do, and hopefully I'll continue to lead a very normal life," she said. The man who hit her, Victor Manuel Meda-Cam- ey, was a Guatemalan na- tional living here illegally. He is currently serving eight months in jail for criminal vehicular operation. Moberg said she is blessed to have amazing family and friends who have supported her throughout her recovery. She is also grateful for the medical care she received from Regions Hospital. And while she is forever grateful to those who helped her through her darkest hour, it is Moberg herself who is the true hero, Ross said. "It's just great to see how well she's doing. It's more of a testament to her than to us," he said. "I told her many times, `I believe you're the hero, you're the brave one.' " Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc. com. Thi www.thisweeklive.com Opinion/4A Announcements/5A MARCH 11, 2011 VOLUME 32, NO. 2 Sports/6A Classifieds/7A Art Fete at the Burnsville PAC shines the spotlight on local visual artists. See Thisweekend Page 10A. Thisweekend/1OA A NEWS OPINION SPORTS Legal Notices/12A Eagan crash victim meets 'heroes' who rescued her Eagan woman was hit by wrong -way drunken driver on Highway 13 last November by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS It was a violent crash, a head- on collision that folded the dash- board of Kelli Moberg's car "like a piece of paper" and trapped her beneath it. She saw the other car only a moment before it hit her, just in time to brace herself for impact. The driver, who was legally drunk, had been traveling the wrong way on Highway 13 in Eagan, just north of Yankee Doodle Road. It was around 1 a.m. Nov. 14, and Moberg's life was changed forever. Immediately after the impact she began assessing herself: She could wiggle her fingers and toes, so she wasn't paralyzed. Her right eye wasn't blind, just filled with blood that had trickled down from her forehead. Then she touched her head and realized that a third of her scalp had been ripped off. Her jaw was broken, her body riddled with fractures, and she was trapped in- side her car. But she was alive. Moberg, an occupational thera- pist who works with children with traumatic injuries, was able to keep calm as rescuers arrived. When the first firefighters showed up to the scene, she said she felt instantly comforted. "I was so happy to see them," the Eagan resident said. "I knew I was in the best hands possible and Photo by Erin Johnson Kelli Moberg, of Eagan, talks with Eagan firefighters Sean Solberg, left, and Chris Hall, two of the first responders who rescued her after a serious car crash last November. I would be OK." In all, 28 first responders worked on the crash — 18 firefight- ers, eight police officers, and two paramedics. By all accounts, it did not look good, Eagan Police Chief Jim Mc- Donald said. He said one of the first re- sponding police officers told him, "We were really worried about her." It took about an hour to extri- cate her from her car, he said. "They had to cut the car in half," he said. Moberg said she is eternally grateful for the tireless work of rescuers that night. "(Firefighters) flawlessly re- moved me from my mangled car in a short amount of time, which I believe is a miracle, and they talk- ed to me the entire time, which cer- tainly helped me to remain calm," she said. "The Eagan Fire Depart- ment and Police Department and Healtheast paramedic depart- ments had excellent collaboration, and each was a vital link in saving my life." Moberg, 32, was ultimately hos- pitalized for two months to repair See Heroes, 2A Photo by Jessica Harper Residents and officials from the Rosemount -Apple Valley -Eagan School District gathered at Rosemount Middle School on March 8 to discuss potential cuts to the district's budget. Focus groups implore district to cut with care Parents of students in District 196 want to see equitable reductions in athletics and activities by Jessica Harper THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS As the Rosemount -Apple Val- ley -Eagan School District faces looming budget cuts, residents say they worry about whether the dis- trict will treat extra -curricular ac- tivities equally and preserve core studies as they impose cut& Residents who met in focus groups at Rosemount Middle School on March 8 said they favor the district's proposed $3.5 mil- lion in budget cuts for next school year as long as cuts to sports and fine arts are examined equally. "We need to ensure there is more consistency in the funding to programs," said Elaine Ste- vens, a parent of a sixth -grader at Dakota Hills Middle School and a sophomore at Eagan High School. District officials are consider- ing eliminating approximately 48 full-time equivalent positions, re- moving high school figure skating and increasing fees by $10 for all high school sports and fine arts. Several residents, in- cluding Stevens, said they were concerned some activities, such as band and ice skating, would be unfairly hit harder than others. "I will not be a happy camper if no one else has to make sacrific- es," said Cheryl Anderson, a par - See Cuts, 2A viHe figure skater finishes first in France Photo by Rick Urndorf Eagan firefighter Chris Gustafson was at his day job as a personal trainer when he used his first -responder training to revive a man whose heart had stopped. Off -duty Eagan firelight brings man back to life Burnsville resident suffered heart attack at gym by Erin Johnson THIS W EEK NEWSPAPERS "I was dead," said Burns- ville resident Randy Clau- sen. "My heart stopped." It was Tuesday, Feb. 15. Clausen, 66, had just fin- ished a league tournament racquetball game at L.A. Fitness in Apple Valley and was "feeling good." But as he stepped off the court, he suddenly felt dizzy. He took a few steps before collapsing, and then everything went black. "That's all I remember until I was brought back," he said. stopped and he took hi . = �hIrtrI✓12" 3f1,1U,,, Brought back to life, that is, by the quick actions of Chris Gustafson, a volun- teer Eagan firefighter who works as a personal trainer at the gym. Gustafson happened to be near the racquetball courts when Clausen col- lapsed and was able to re- spond immediately. Gustafson said Clau- sen was initially struggling to breathe, so he opened his airway, which helped for only a moment. He then watched as Clausen's eyes rolled back, his pulse s last breath. Gustafson began per forming CPR while some one else retrieved the por table defibrillator an oxygen tank stocked — a Gustafson's suggestion — b the gym. As someone held the ox ygen mask to Clausen's face Gustafson applied the defi brillator to his chest whil an ambulance headed to th scene. "All of a sudden (Clau sen) looked at me an pushed away the oxyge mask," Gustafson said. "H See Firefighter, 11A • • ' • a society's ex- ecutive director. "Right now, it doesn't ex- ist," he said. "We're hoping that it will." The organization has taken a keener interest in Burnsville lately, in part be- cause the city's Performing Arts Center is an excellent venue for displaying history through art, artifacts and performance. A theatrical production called "Dakota County An- thology" is being planned for a spring 2012 unveiling at the arts center. Meanwhile, the histori- cal society held a meeting Feb. 23 at the center, where a handful of folks showed up to talk about recording local history. The effort is championed by Nachman and Burnsville resident Dawn Ridgway, who serve on the historical society board. "I think there are a lot rsi ,cation, ef- forts to make Burnsville a medical technology hub, preparation for redevelop- ment of the industrial Min- nesota River Quadrant, and the Great Recession. Another full history volume may not be in the works, but perhaps local historians could write some pamphlets, he said. "Or, we had the idea of just putting it on Face - book," said Nachman, who also serves on Burnsville's parks commission, the board of the city's Inter- national Festival and the Dakota County Public Arts Committee. The historical society has already used the arts center's gallery for two exhibits, the most recent being a photo show called "ARTitecture," which closed in February. Now the organization is working on "Dakota Coun- ty Anthology," a perfor- mance spotlighting Dakota ..- r s said. "The historical society is providing the content and chasing down necessary funding for this, he said. "We're going to work with a playwright to get it writ- ten." Nachman said there may be another historical society meeting this month at the arts center to gauge interest in a history project. Activities such as guest speakers and historical tours may be a start, he said. "And naturally, since Burnsville is becoming more diverse, eventually we would love for those com- munities that have grown a lot in the last few years to come forward and make sure that their history within the community is also docu- mented and shared with the larger Burnsville popula- tion," Nachman said. John Gessner is at burnsville. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Hometoiwi bmw le, MN��� DGE • KIA G AS LOW AS 1.9% APR GM CERTIFIED TRUCK D EEN COUNTRY 2OOjUBURBAN MINIMA Black 2007 TAHOE 25 SILVERADOS TO CHOOSE FROM 3,900 M 1 Police seek public's help in Thresher Fields graffiti case by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan police are asking for the public's help in iden- tifying suspects who covered a city park building with graffiti, causing extensive damage. A parks employee dis- covered the damage on the shelter pavilion at Thresher Fields Park on Feb. 7. Two sides of the building were spray painted with graffiti, which the city estimates will cost more than $3,000 to clean up. The park, located at 3200 Borchert Lane, is in a more industrial section of the city off of Yankee Doodle Road and Mike Collins Drive. It's not particularly un- usual to see graffiti or tag- ging in Eagan, said Eagan police officer Danielle An- selment. A parks employee discovered Thresher Fields Park, which area in the northeast part of "But this was such a large amount of graffiti on the building, and it's going to cost the city a significant amount to fix it," she said. Police have had no solid leads on a suspect so far, she said. The Eagan Citizens Submitted pho the damage to this building in is located in a more industrial the city. Crime Prevention Associa tion is offering a reward o up to $500 for information leading to the arrest of the individuals responsible. Anyone with informa- tion is asked to contact the Eagan Police Department at (651) 675-5700. laware on res man senator's agenda Dan Hall of Burnsville is no stranger to by John Gessner THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Dan Hall wasn't the only Minnesotan horrified by the brutal stabbing of a Roseville police dog last N ovember. But as a freshman sena- tor and member of the Sen- ate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee, Hall is in a unique position to defend police dogs everywhere. The Burnsville Republi- can is chief Senate author of a bill that makes it a the Capitol felony to cause great bodily harm to a police dog. Un- der current law, only killing a dog is a felony offense. "It really tugged at my heartstrings," Hall said of a criminal suspect's knife at- tack on Major, the Roseville dog who lost the use of his back legs. As a longtime Burnsville police and fire chaplain and former police reserve officer in Northfield, Hall knows something about public safety. Photo by John Gessner Sen. Dan Hall, R-Burnsville, spoke at a press conference unveiling "Hannah's Law," one of two bills on which the freshman senator is chief Senate author. As a former first aid in - See Hall, 11A Girl Singers director makes his N2 • DAKOTA COUNTY • STAR TRIBUNE • SUND tow THE BUSINESS BEAT Eagan Floral closes after 26 years By NICOLE NORFLEET nicole.norfleet@startribune.com After 26 years in busi- ness, local florist Patricia Thomas has closed her Eagan shop. On the Eagan Floral website, a statement in- forms customers that the difficult economic times made it too hard to keep the flower shop open: "As most of you know, we have tried everything we could do, from mov- ing into a smaller space to cut down on bills, to work- ing extra hours and cut- ting our store hours. This all did help, but with the economic times, it was not enough." Eagan Floral had been in business since 1986. The store formerly oper- ated out of the Eagan Town Centre shopping center. In 2009, it relocated to 1340 Duckwood Drive, near Hardware Hank and Snap Fitness. Eagan City Administra- tor Tom Hedges said the flower shop was known for its family oriented at- mosphere. "She's always been the traditional floral business serving the community," Hedges said. The city used Eagan Floral occasionally over the years, Hedges said. "I think we all in the community want to wish [Patricia] well and thank her for her longtime ser- vice," Hedges said. covering vine's 'The most oductive 000 acres the state' west Airlines' headquarters gone, but Minneapolis - Airport still generates jobs tomers for the south metro. N MARQUEZ ESTRADA ibune.com gh Northwest Airlines has ed, Eagan and Dakota Coun- tinue to enjoy huge financial s from their proximity and tions to Minneapolis -St. Paul ional Airport. that monetary impact, esti- the millions of dollars, is ected to grow in the coming as the airport expects to ex- bstantially by the year 2030. believe the airport is a signifi- ayer in the economic activ- the community," said Den- bst, deputy executive direc- anning and development of tropolitan Airports Commis- C). continues on N2 ► e Garage ds adult Cu,-e Eagan Apple Valley Rosemount Eagan man a Capitol mainstay Paul Battaglia has worked behind scenes for decades with state leaders BY MUNA HASSAN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Eagan resident Paul Battaglia has had a front -row seat to nearly four decades of Minnesota politics. Battaglia has been working for Session Weekly, a nonparti- san publication of Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services, since the early 1980s. While his role has changed over time, his enthusiasm for Minnesota's political history has not. Battaglia originally started with Session Weekly in 1981 as the house photographer. In this role, he contributed pictures to the publication as well as worked with desktop publishing - creating documents for large- scale publishing on a personal computer. While Battaglia was originally trained in photojour- nalism, he became interested with information technology. BATTAGLIA: TO PAGE 21 PETS stories and blogs online at WWW. unity, With the Community, For the Community to Minnesota Zoo away from agriculture these days,' freangen said. "When I was growing up Tou could always go to Grandpa an( 3randma's farm if you didn't live of me, but we don't have that anymore nany adults have never even been uj lose and personal to agriculture." Treangen has been at the Minnesot :oo Family Farm since it opened 1 'ears ago. He has been involved wit ,griculture his entire life, and is not yelping people gain an understandin f animals, agriculture and conserve ion. Special kids' activities will be avai ble Easter weekend, April 22-23, inclut rig a Peter Rabbit costume charactE raft projects and tractor rides from tl rain elevator to the farm. There is no separate fee for the fan ✓ farm. Although the Farm Babil vent will last throughout the month pril, Treangen said the farm is op( trough October and they will contim have the animals at the farm as thi row this summer. The Minnesota Zoo is located at 130" 0o Boulevard in Apple Valley. For mo iformation, call 952-431-9500 or vi: mzoo.org. 2A March 4, 2011 THISWEEK Want to counsel the City Council? Eagan seeks applicants for advisory commissions by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Advisory commissions are an important part of city government, City Adminis- trator Tom Hedges said. While they play a strictly advisory role, the City Coun- cil essentially empowers com- mission members to research issues and make recommen- dations for public policy, he said. "I think it goes without saying if the council tried to do all that by themselves, it would be very hard," he said. The city of Eagan is ac- cepting applications from citizens for 18 vacancies on its advisory commissions. The application deadline is Thursday, March 31. There are currently va- cancies on each of the city's four advisory commissions: the Advisory Planning Com- mission, the Airport Rela- tions Advisory Commission, the Advisory Parks, Recre- ation and Natural Resources Commission, and the Energy and Environment Advisory Commission. Appointments carry a two-year term. There is also a one-year alternate term available on each commission. Advisory commission posts are unpaid, volunteer positions. Being a commis- sion member requires a cer- tain time commitment, typi- cally at least one evening a month for meetings, Hedges said. Sometimes commis- sions will hold additional meetings or committee meet- ings. Applicants do not need to be experts in the areas on which the commissions fo- cus, nor do they need to have a degree. "We're looking for people that have an interest in serv- ing the community and an interest in some of the things these commissions do," Hedges said. The Planning Commis- sion, for instance, hears is- sues related to land use, de- velopment and zoning, while the Parks Commission deals with issues of existing park- land and parkland related to development. The Airport Relations Commission focuses on is- sues of airport noise and operations over Eagan, while the Energy and Environment Commission deals with sus- tainability and conservation issues that relate to residents and businesses. Applicants will be inter- viewed in April and appoint- ments will be made in late April or early May. The following commis- sions have vacancies: • Advisory Planning Com- mission: four 2-year terms; one 1-year alternate term; • Advisory Parks and Rec- reation Commission: three 2-year terms; one 1-year al- ternate term; • Airport Relations Com- mission: four 2-year terms; one 1-year alternate term. • Energy and Environ- ment Advisory Commis- sion: three 2-year terms; one 1-year alternate term. Commission descriptions and general meeting sched- ules as well as applications are available on the city's website, www.cityofeagan. com/comnussions. Applications can also be picked up at City Hall. For more information, call (651) 675-5007. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@eem-inc.com. ME 32, NO. 1 Comedian Ralphie May returns to the Burnsville PAC. *4' See Thisweekend Page 10A ►n Classifieds/7A Thisweekend/1OA A NEWS OPINION SPORTS Legal Notices 1/1- mend $3.5 million in cuts ns, eliminating high school figure skating and raising fees educing transpor- increasing eligible by one-half mile rict 196 will likely ool year, officials id cutting anoth- sing federal edu- ing that became budget adjust- 1-12 school year ion, based on the tate officials will cut education funding by 3.5 per- cent. This will be the third consecu- tive year the district will face bud- get reductions, which officials say are due to years of flat state fund- ing combined with accounting shifts. The state has withheld $68 mil- lion in funding over the past two years, according to district officials. As a result, the district had to impose $10 million in budget ad- justments for the 2008-09 school year and $15.3 million for the 2010- 11 school year. Focus meetings will be held on March 8 and 9 to allow residents and employees to discuss the cur- rent recommendations with district officials. School Board members are ex- pected to review the recommenda- tions at their March 14 meeting before they vote on it March 28. E-mail Jessica Harper at: jessica. harper@ecni-inc. com. lice dogs, `Hannah's Eagan QIP'IIJ Apple Valley Rosemount URRENT March 10, 2011 • V36.10 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Sixty-six years later, memories of war remain Eagan veteran leads Pledge of Allegiance before Senate meeting BY JOSEPH PALMERSHEIM • SUN NEWSPAPERS Dick Carroll's World War II experience has always remained close to his heart. The bullet frag- ments in his chest have moved with every heart- beat he's taken over the past 66 years. The Eagan resident recently led the Minnesota Senate in the Pledge of Allegiance Feb. 28. In doing so, he became the first local veteran to participate in a new program inviting veterans to say the pledge each Monday of the 2011 session. "I knew who he was, and when I found out we were going to start with the Pledge of Allegiance the first Monday, I thought, 'He's the guy. What a story!"' said District 38 Senator Ted Daley. Dick Carroll's story starts in 1920 on a farm in Empire Township. He graduated from Rosemount High School, and was working at a Hastings garage when he heard about the Japanese attacking Pearl Harbor Dec. 7,1941. He knew he would eventually be drafted, and decided to join the U.S. Army Air Corps. VETERAN: TO PAGE 21 Dick Carroll of Eagan led the Minnesota Senate in the Pledge of Allegiance Feb. 28. Carroll Yew B-24 bombers in Europe during World War II, and was taken prisoner after being shot down on his 15th mission. (Submitted photo) Eagles dominate rot at state. • Page 24 r 0 IXMIXM Events part of ' spring tradition BY MUNA HASSAN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Robins. Green grass. Warm days. All sure signs of spring. But in Eagan, community events are another harbinger of the season. The city is offering the Wedding Workshop and the Home and Leisure Show later this month, and will host its 12th annual Home and Leisure show March 11-13 at the Eagan Civic Arena, 3870 Pilot Knob Road. The three- day event will feature more than 80 vendors that will give atten- dees helpful hints, ideas and demonstrations dealing with home and leisure topics. According to Mark Vaughan, the Eagan Civic Center Campus Facilities Manager, this event is different from other similarly themed events not only because it is free to the public, but also because it is held across three days instead of just one. Eagan EAGAN EVENTS: TO PAGE 22 2 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, March 10, 2011 — www.minnlocal.com In the Community. With the Community, For the Community Jerry Behr • 17 years in Business • Next Day Installatioon • Realtors — Landlords Commercial Welcome! • 25 Years of Professional Installation Teffaney Behr CARPET • LAMINATE VINYL • WOOD • TILE FREE Carpet Pad Installation Estimates On All Famous DuPont SmartStrand Carpets By Mohawk Talking turkeys and tiger muskies in south metro Burnsville tracks wild turkey complaints; DNR fish stocking questioned BY JOSEPH PALMERSHEIM • SUN NEWSPAPERS Some of Elaine Erickson's neighbors have odd habits. They sleep in the trees. They don't obey property lines. They poop every- where. And they gobble. Erickson's home off Burnsville Parkway and County Road 11 abuts a wood- ed area housing a small flock of turkeys. Despite the occasional annoyance, Erickson enjoys having them around. "They're beautiful in the fall and spring," Erickson said. "They're funny. You make a sound, and they'll gobble back. They can also see you like it is no one's business." According to Darryl Jacobsen with 7 t1 J. E ippr the city of Burnsville, the city has start- ed to keep track of any complaints relat- ed to the birds. So far, he has logged two - one each year in 2009 and 2010. While the big birds might enjoy strutting their stuff around town, any actual damage they cause seems limited. "The only thing I've seen is some destruction to yards," Jacobsen said. "If there are 20 turkeys digging for worms, it can cause quite a bit of a mess. Generally, if you walk towards them, they aren't going to stick around. In Burnsville, they are not accustpmed to people." The turkeys in Burnsville can trace their roots back to 29 adult wild turkeys transported to the state from Missouri in 1971-73 as part of an effort to repopu- late the species. Since being originally released in Houston County in extreme southeast Minnesota, the state's turkey population has grown to 70,000, accord- ing to a DNR estimate. WILDLIFE: TO NEXT PAGE ites Ive. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com—Thursday, March 10, 2011—Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 21 Veteran FROM PAGE 1 "Originally, I wanted to be a cowboy," he said. "But when I saw aircraft over- head doing aerobatics, I thought it would be much more interesting. I want- ed to be a fighter pilot, of course." After applying to fly twin -engine P-38 Lightning fighters, Carroll was made a co-pilot on a four -engine B-24 Liberator bomber. Carroll and his crew flew a new B-24 over the Atlantic after being assigned to the 15th Air Force in Italy in spring 1944. When they arrived, the new plane was given to a more experienced crew. Unlike other bomber crews in Europe, who spent the majority of their time in a single aircraft, Carroll's crew flew what- ever was available. They flew 14 missions against rail- road yards, refineries and other targets. Their luck held until the 15th mission over a munitions factory near Budapest. An over -speeding propeller caused the airplane to go down on the way home. The pilot gave the other to bail out, and the crew parachuted out of the plane. One of the men, the nose gunner, has never been accounted for. After jumping out of the open bomb bay, Carroll safely landed in a farm field, and put his hands over his head after getting clear of his chute, and was shot in the chest by farmers before being saved by local authorities. "The farmers shot me," he said. "They didn't like us. The German propa- ganda told them we were Chicago gang- sters being paid $1,000 for every mission we flew. They'd probably had some rela- tives killed." Carroll was put on a cot and taken to a nearby military headquarters, and given the Last Rites of the Roman Catholic Church. The outpost had no medical supplies. The German Army had taken everything when passing through the area weeks before. "They left this doctor with the stetho- scope around his neck and an empty black bag," Carroll said. "He said, `I don't even have an aspirin tablet to give you. Everything is gone. — Carroll was eventually transported to a military hospital in Budapest before a train ride to an interrogation center in Germany, where he spent five days. "After they were done with their briefing, [the interrogators said], 'Lt. Carroll, let us bring you up to date,"' he said. "They had a three -by -five card with German written on it, and they told me my father's name, mother's name, that I was born on a farm in Rosemount. They told me the day I graduated as a pilot, the day I arrived in Italy. They said I'd be happy to know my squadron command- er had been promoted to colonel, and that a new mess hall had been built since I had been shot down. Think of all the human hours they wasted gathering that." After receiving winter gear at a tem- porary camp, Carroll and other prison- ers were put on another train, and expe- rienced the receiving end of an Allied bombing raid while traveling through Leipzig. Concussions from the blasts rocked the train car and shattered the glass windows. They arrived in Berlin Dec. 7, on the way to Luft Stalag One, a prison camp on the Baltic Coast. "When we were nearly done process- ing [at the camp], they said we could send a Christmas message to the folks back home," he said. "I thought, `Since they told me everything they knew about me, what the heck?' Would you believe that starting on Dec. 23, Dad and Mother received 31 postcards from the East Coast telling them I was alive and at the camp. They couldn't believe it. They thought I had died. Who lives with a bullet in their heart?" Carroll was one of 24 prisoners in his barrack. The population received BBC news from a radio blackmailed from the guards, and knowledge that the war was nearing its end was commonplace. The Russians overran the camp May 1, immediately putting up the hammer and sickle flag on the camp's flagpole. After negotiations between the Allies and the Soviets over how the prisoners would leave Luft Stalag One, Carroll and others were flown out from a nearby mil- itary base. By this time, Carroll weighed around 120 pounds, nearly 50 pounds less than when he arrived in Italy. They were shipped back home from France in June 1945, a month after the war ended. Carroll arrived in Rosemount several train trips later. He picked up his fiance, Martha Rosenberger, on the way to a meal at his parent's house. "Dad and Mother were quite pleased, but they never asked me what happened to me, and I never told them," he said. "They were quite old, and I didn't want to put them through the misery of what I had been through. They died without my story" Dick and Martha later married, and remained so for 65 years until her death Jan. 5. They have three children. "She married a guy with a bullet in his heart, and what is his future?" Carroll asked. "I couldn't do farming, and it took a long time for the Army to figure out what to do with me. They recommended I be retired for combat disability. At that time, bypass surgery was rather new, and the doctor claimed that 60 percent of the peo- ple who underwent to procedure died. They said the only thing to do was exercise, but not too much." He ended up working with the Veteran's Administration, and worked for several federal agencies before retiring from the U.S. Air Force in 1978. He has worked part- time since then, and also works with war widows and other veterans. Like many vets Carroll remained quiet about his war experience until the passage of time made it easier to open up. Now, Carroll shares his experience with younger generations, like a high school class he recently spoke to. He has been back to Europe several times since the war, and three of his 24 roommates from Stalag Luft One attended their last reunion. He doesn't hold any animosity towards his former enemies. "War is war," he said. "Nothing is totally good or totally bad. To survive, you have to be an optimist. You have to believe things will be better, and look ahead, and think you will live through it. When I look at the flag, I think of all the people I know who were killed, so many that died so quickly. The price we pay for war, unless you were there, can't really be understood." Carroll turns 91 this October. 22 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, March 10, 2011 —www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community COMMUNITY NOTES Eagan Foundation Tickets are on sale for the Denim & Diamonds gala, the Eagan Foundation's annual wine tasting and silent auction 6- 9 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, at the Eagan Community Center. Proceeds from the event will go to support the Eagan Foundation's community outreach including scholarship programs, com- munity initiatives and local grant mak- ing. Tickets cost $40 per person until April 5 then increase to $50 after the 5th and may be purchased at eaganfounda- tion.org; $32 of the ticket price is tax- deductible. Info: eaganfoundation.org. LEGAL NOTICES agan eve FROM PAGE 1 "We see a lot of people come on Friday, take the information they receive home and come back on Sunday to ask more questions," Vaughan said. Attendees will see a variety of ven- dors that will cover landscaping, interi- design and remodeling. Home Depot of Eagan will be joining is year's event, giving participants the pportunity to see more demonstra- ons. Seminars from the retailer are anned each day including installing c iling fans, replacing plumbing and i l terior painting. Also showcased this year is a presen- tation about the Emerald Ash Borer. The presentation will deal with issues con- cerning how to identify, prevent and treat the infestation. The Home and Leisure show is 4-8 p.m. March 11; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 12; and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 13. The city will also be hosting the 7th annual Wedding Workshop 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 20, at Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway. The work- shop allows brides and others involved in wedding planning to receive informa- tion about what is available for the big day. More than 20 vendors will attend, pro- viding guests the chance to look at all the aspects of weddings. Some vendor specialties will include flowers, enter- tainment, food, alcohol and fashion. "The workshop allows brides to talk to vendors in an intimate setting," said Melissa Wind, the Rental Coordinator at the Eagan Community Center. While in the past the event focused on educating people about what to do to plan a wedding, the workshop is now more of a wedding fair. Even so, every year a wedding planner attends the event to give brides tips on how to tackle the tasks needed for the wed- ding. According to event organizers, many vendors will be having giveaways. The city of Eagan will also have a giveaway at the event. The winner will receive $100 off a wedding reservation at the Eagan Community Center. Admission for the workshop is $2. Info: 651-675-5550. Public Notice (Official Publication) RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY OWNERSHIP RIGHTS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that I, Mr. Craig A. Miller, the Owner, claim all rights and privileges to the property owned by him since 1989 at: 14620 Garrett Ave. South, Condo. #: 205, Apple Valley. MN. 55124 in the county of Dakota. There is an on- going dispute between Mr. Miller and Garrett Square Condominium Associa- tion's Board of Directors (GSCA's BODs). Mr. Miller believes he is owed $25,200 as of October, 2010 plus expenses, etc. from the GSCA's BODs for evicting his renter without the due process of law and in violation of the GSCA's By-laws. Mr. Miller disputes any monies GSCA per- ceives Mr. Miller owes it. Mr. Miller here- by claims that the aforementioned prop- , is nn} fnr cplo Miscellaneous household and person- al goods Amount Due: $484.85 Unit number 1103 leased by Thomas Erickson Miscellaneous household and person- al goods Amount Due: $514.85 Unit number 1202 leased by Anthony Errico Miscellaneous household and person- al goods Amount Due: $1294.55 Unit number 1234 leased by Tana Erri- co Miscellaneous household and person- al goods Amount Due: $1294.55 Unit number 1310 leased by Brittany al goods Amount Due: $259.80 (Mar 3, 10, 2011) c2-A Valley Auction 3-22-11 Public Notice of Auction (Official Publication) NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given that on April 8, 2011 al 11:OOAM at Acorn Mini Stor- age, 2935 Lexington Ave. S., city of Eagan, county of Dakota, state of Min- nesota, the undersigned Acorn Mini Storage will sell at Public Sale by com- petitive bidding the personal property heretofore stored with the undersigned by: Unit # 103 Dale Odiachi tools, luggage, furniture, boxes of un- known content. Public Notice of Auction (Official Publication) NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given that on April 8, 2011 at 10:OOAM at Acorn Mini Stor- age, 5000 Babcock Trail, city of Inver Grove Heights, county of Dakota, state of Minnesota, the undersigned Acorn Mini Storage will sell at Public Sale by competitive bidding the personal prop- erty heretofore stored with the under- signed by: Unit # 701 Bryan Nelson vehcle #2442323 Unit # 2503 David Vojovich pressure washer, ladder, scaffolding, siding brake, ship vacuum, garden tractor, battery charger/starter, boxes of unkown content #2442363 sonal representative of the estate of the decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal represen- tative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed with the Court (pur- suant to Minn. Stat. 524.3-607) and the Court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power adminis- ter the Estate including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or dis- tribute real estate. Any objections to the probate of the will or appointment of the Personal Representative must be filed with this Court and will be heard by the Court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing. Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to nracpnt thin rlaimc In the nprcnnal Daniel Wold: Space 405, go cart/bike Robert Tigner: Space #214 1999 Ford Expedition VIN# 1FMPU18L8XLA15325 Jody Partyka: Space 356,1998 Chevrolet Venture VIN:1GNDX03E5WD221025 1999 Plymouth Grand Voyager VIN: 1 P4GP44GXXB550759 Jody Partyka: Space 359, 1994 Buick Regal VIN: 2G 4 W B55M0 R 1469731 1997 Chevrolet Astro VIN. 1GBEL19W3VB101138 Charles Nanle• Snare 406. RV Sprinter 4 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, March 3, 2011 — www.minnlocal.com � Abominable snow season means extra city expenses BY JEFF BARTHEL • SUN NEWSPAPERS Snow has been no stranger this winter - if anything, it has begun to become a guest who has overstayed a welcome. A heavy downpour of 17.1-inch of snow in December pestered metro area drivers and even burst a hole in the Metrodome roof. Snow continued to fall here and there, but the area experienced nothing of extreme sig- nificance - until Feb. 20-21. This second major storm dumped as much as 19 inches of snow in some parts of the Twin Cities Metro in less than two days, which set a new February single snow storm record. The accumulation easily topped the previous high of 11.2 inches in February 2004, according to the National Weather Service. The massive helpings of snow are beginning to wear on cities who are charged with clearing the white stuff away. "Having two major events in one year is very unique," said Tim Plath, Eagan's Transportation and Operations Director. This last storm, he said, elicited a "salt -in -the -wound reaction." After the second storm, the cumu- lative snow total for this winter reached 74.9 inches -- which, accord- ing to the National Weather Service, is the loth largest amount of snow in Twin Cities' winter season history. "[The snow] seems to keep conning and it's not even March vet," • remarked Chris Petree, Lakeville Director of Operation and' Maintenance. The efforts are taxing on laborers. equipment and city budgets alike. Administrators for city maintenance and public works recognize the unpredictable nature of winter precipitation and in most cases said their respective cities have back-u budgets to assist them in keeping streets as safe and clear as pos- sible. "Contingency dollars are bud- geted by the [city] council for signifi- cant emergencies SNOW SEASON: TO PAGE 21 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community BY MUNA HASSAN • SUN NEWSPAPERS A coalition of churches throughout the South Metro is hoping to bring light to the dark depths of depression. Ten churches south of the river teamed up last year to create the Depression Support Coalition. The coalition has begun a monthly speaker series address- ing various topics related to depression. This year, the organization has speakers scheduled to give presentations at the dif- ferent churches in the coalition. "Depression has always had a stig- ma," said the Rev. Duane Paetznick, a pastor at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Apple Valley. "We need to address that stigma." In the past, the coalition has had speakers come in to discuss a variety of topics from parents of teens with depres- sion to panel discussions with people sharing their own stories of depression. One presentation is going to focus on an age group not touched on before. Dr. William Orr will give a presentation March 3 on depression in the elderly. The presentation will include informa- tion about how depression in the elderly is In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com -Thursday, March 3, 2011 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 3 South Metro churches help residents battle depression Upcoming events ■ March 3 - "Differentiating Depression from Early Dementia in the Elderly" - Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, 3611 North Bernes Road, Prior Lake. • April 4 - "One Man's Journey With Depression" - Easter Lutheran Church by the Lake, 4545 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan. ■ May 5 - "Our Stories of Depression and Our Hope Today" - Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley. • June 2 - "Pathways to Resilience" - Church of St. Michael Catholic Church, 16311 Duluth Ave. SE, Prior Lake. different that depression in teens and mid- dle-aged adults, how physicians can mis- take depression for Alzheimer's and what friends, family and caregivers should know about depression in the elderly. According to Orr, depression in the elderly is much higher than the general public thinks it is. For many elderly peo- ple, being isolated in senior care centers, losing spouses and memory loss con- tribute to the number of elderly adults with depression. "All these things can create depres- sion and anxiety in this age group," Orr said, "and physicians often miss the depression diagnosis." The events are open to the public. Organizers invite individuals with depression, friends, family and others to come to each presentation. "Even though it is a coalition of churches, it is important for the public to know that everyone is welcome," said Stacy Wollmuth, parish nurse at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church. "Whether they have depression or not and whether they're part of the church or not." The coalition has speakers scheduled to present on a variety of topics through the month of June. April's presentation will be given by Mark A. Meier about his journey through depression. Paetznick said this presentation will give others a different take on depression, because he generally sees women - not men - talk about their depression publicly. In May, the coalition will welcome a number of presenters to give a panel dis- cussion about their stories of depres- sion. Then in June, Susan Bourgerie will speak about pathways to resilience. The presentation will include how to overcome depression. "The presentation will focus on how to bounce back from depression," Paetznick said. With this series of presentations in full swing, coalition organizers are already planning for the next series, which starts in August. The organizers will tailor the next series to the audi- ence's needs. Participants fill out a feed- back form with gives planners a more concrete idea of what the public wants to learn and hear about. "We try to hit topics that people are interested in and have a need for," Paetznick said. The series is still young, but it has come a long way. Paetznick estimates that between 50-125 people come to each presentation. Depression is believed to be factor in the lives of more than 23 mil- lion adults each year in the Unites States. All presentations begin at 7 p.m. Info: depressionsupportcoalit ion. org miI Coaches & Parents nnes Unite! In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com -Thursday, March 3, 2011 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 21 Snow season FROM PAGE 4 such as tornados, high winds, snow and ice control," Petree said. "[Lakeville's] snow and ice control policy sets certain expectations for our residents. It's an essential service, something our city residents rely on. In past years it's been easier, not nearly the amounts of snow we've had this year, but with Mother Nature and how she plays her cards, you just have to face it and do whatever you can to keep things as safe as possible." Expenses for snow events (occur- rences where city maintenance services such as plowing are employed) can vary depending on the amounts of snow and storm intensity. Ryan Peterson, acting Director of Public Works for Burnsville, described potential costs for snow events in his city. "The cost to remove snow from all streets and sidewalks for an event that requires all streets to be plowed is approximately $35,000. Events such as the last one [Feb. 20-21], which have 17 inches or more, can cost three times as much," Peterson said. One factor in these costs is labor. Peterson said that for events that require all streets to be plowed, the entire public works and parks depart- ments, as well as a portion of the fleet department and the street superintend- ent - 25 employees - are necessary. Most if not all workers who handle snow -clearing types of duties are full- time city employees with other daily responsibilities; but when snow falls, they are required to respond. Petree said that besides the safety of residents, it's also important he recognizes the health of his plow drivers. "We always want to make sure the roads are as safe for our patrons as pos- sible, but also account for the safety and concern with our operators and that they are well -rested," he said. "People often don't realize the amount of time [drivers] are physically in the seats when operating these vehicles." Another problem that presents itself when the snow piles up is where to put it. When snow banks alongside of city streets reach plateaus where snow can no longer safely collect, alternative sites must be used. One immediate option cities use is cul-de-sacs. Snow removal workers can plow excess snow into the middle of these circular streets, but there's a limit amount of snow these spaces hold. Each city has its own solu- tions for this. In Burnsville, Peterson said the City uses three main sites - Cliff Fen Park, Alimagnet Park and the city's Civic Center campus area. In Eagan, Plath said his employees haul excess snow to city property not used in the winter, places like parking lots and areas around facilities such as baseball dia- monds. He also said there's a large stretch of land next to the city's mainte- nance facility they use as well. Beyond the massive amounts of snow this winter (compared with other win- ters) this year's season has other unique qualities too. "I don't recall seeing this combina- tion of high amounts of snow with no meltdown," said Apple Valley Public Works Director Todd Blomstrom. "It's been unique from an equipment standpoint," Plath said. "Equipment breaks down because of the amount of work, the number of hours, frequency, thinking of the engines wearing down, metal start to break, hydraulics pop. This last big [storm], we lost one of our nine big plow trucks. Its rear axle differ- ential was broke [which] essentially ren- dered it immobile." Most officials responsible for snow removal are pleased the calendar pages have been turned to March. "It's certainly a challenging time for cities with their budgets," Blomstrom said. "I'm not going to say it hasn't been a strain on the city's budget, but we've been able to cover it." The all-time snowfall record for a Minnesota record is 98.6 inches (accord- ing to the National Weather Service), which is 23.7 more inches than this year's total as of Feb. 25. With two more months of potential snowfall remaining, there is a chance that record could be challenged. But while approaching the lofty mark would be interesting, city residents and public works official alike would probably be just fine without more snow 22 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, March 3, 2011- www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Musical FROM PAGE 1 Bakken said the experience has been an intensely emotional and powerful journey. "The one big takeaway I've had from this production is the cast overall," Bakken said. "It's an awesome cast filled with supportive, loving, encouraging, compassionate and understanding peo- ple. We all discussed this piece together as a group from the first day to help direct us in this, so it's been a really great and rewarding experience." In addition to playing his dream role, Bakken has the privilege of performing alongside his wife and high school sweetheart Maureen Sherman -Mendez, a member of the ensemble. The two have been performing togeth- LEGAL NOTICES er since attending Eastview, where they met on the set of "Bye, Bye Birdie." "She was playing Rosie, the lead female, and I was playing Randolph, the eight -year -old little boy, so that was a lit- tle weird," Bakken said. "I wouldn't ask her out until I was 16 and could drive; that's when we started dating." Since then, the pair has performed in numerous shows together, including `All Shook Up" and "Footloose" at Chanhassen Dinner Theater. Fellow Eastview High School alumnus Danny McHugh is also in "Jesus Christ Superstar," playing Simon Zealotes. "Acting was the only thing I wanted to do and the only thing I was good at," McHugh said. "Theater was a great out- let for my energy, and high school was an amazing growing time for me." McHugh has traveled the country with his talent, performing in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular at The Grande Ole Opry, the award -winning "TAP: The Show!" at Hershey Park in Pennsylvania, and as a singer on Holland America Line cruise ships. None of it would have happened had his high school teachers not invested in him and his future, he said. "I think we had a great program with really great teachers, and even now look- ing back we were very fortunate to have the program that we did in a high school setting," McHugh said. "There are some colleges who can't boast what we had for resources and teachers and just the oppor- tunity to perform. I didn't know it was unheard of until I got out and realized it." A new creation "Jesus Christ Superstar" is per- formed eight times weekly, with evening performances Tuesdays through Sundays and Wednesdays and Saturday matinees. Because of the rigorous schedule, the actors have to find ways to keep the show fresh. "When you do long runs, as I'm sure all people have at some point, there does come a point where it can become stale, but that's when you as a creative person can change it up in the slightest ways to keep it fresh for yourself," McHugh said. "The thing that's the most interesting to me about this show is that from all of the other versions I've seen, it's a com- pletely different vehicle," said Burnsville High School alumnus Ryan Readio, who plays Bartholomew. "It's always a different show every time you do it. Each individual in the cast brings their own particular view of who Jesus was and what the story of Jesus was." MUSICAL TO NEXT PAGE Public Notice Miscellaneous household and person- al goods al goods Amount Due: $259.80 generous donations. Motion carried Moved by Director Luth. seconded by Di- Public Notice of Auction unanimously (7,0). rector Schmid, to adjourn at 7:49 p m. Daniel W. Luth CI In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Biannual `Showcase Eagan' returns to town this summer Trade show promotes nonprofits, opportunities BY JENNIE OLSON • SUN NEWSPAPERS Organizations looking to participate in this year's Showcase Eagan have until April 1 to join the fun. The city of Eagan has offered city- wide events throughout its history to show community members opportuni- ties for involvement. Its latest effort is Showcase Eagan, a biannual trade show that connects citizens with local non- profits, community groups and civic organizations in Eagan. This year's showcase event will take place 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 2, at the Eagan Civic Arena. Before Showcase Eagan emerged in 2007, the city had an event called the City Services Open House during National Public Works Week, where city departments promoted their roles in the community. But after seeing some decline in attendance over the years, Eagan Community Relations Director Tom Garrison said they decided to open the event up to other local organiza- tions. "Those who feel more connected to what's going on in the city rate [quality of life] higher than those who do not," Garrison said. "This is an effort to con- nect people to all the things that there are to do and experience in Eagan." Big Brothers Big Sisters is one such organization that has participated in the trade show in the past to raise aware- ness for one-on-one mentorship pro- grams. "We have a need for kids in that area, so we're always looking to advertise our programs to the members of the com- munity just to get more people aware of what we do and that we're available in the city of Eagan," said Senior Marketing Coordinator Mike Marcotte. "We're always looking for more volun- teers and kids, so that's why we go, and it's definitely worthwhile for us." Marcotte said that participating in Showcase Eagan has helped their organ- ization overall. "We really rely on grassroots and get- ting the word out, whether its through events like this or word of mouth from our current volunteers," Marcotte said. "As a nonprofit, we really appreciate things that are low-cost or free because Eagan we're working with a limited budget. It's a great way to get to a mass amount of people at one time." Showcase Eagan typically draws 1,200-1,400 attendees and 50 organiza- tions each year. In addition to vendor booths, there are opportunities for kids to sit in a fire truck and squad car, or visit the police dog exhibition. Garrison said the city opts to host the event every other year to keep excitement fresh. "We're all different pieces of what makes a community, and that's one of the things that we're stressing," Garrison said. "One of the city council's goals is to enhance a sense of civic pride, community engagement and vol- unteerism, so [Showcase Eagan] ties very much to that goal." Cheerful Givers, a nonprofit that pro- vides toy -filled birthday gift bags for less fortunate children, has participated in the showcase every year. They look for civic, corporate, school, faith -based, and family volunteers to provide and assem- ble birthday gift bags for kids. "We decided to be a part of this because, as a nonprofit organization based in Eagan, we look for support from the local community with volun- teers and donations on an ongoing basis," said Cheerful Givers President Karen Kitchel. "The showcase is an opportunity to raise the awareness of our charity, and to thank those who con- tinue to provide support." This is the same reason that local fra- ternal organization Dakota County Elks Lodge 2832 has been in the showcase since 2007. "We're very active in veterans, com- munity affairs, and the youth, and by getting out in situations like Showcase Eagan it helps us let people know about the work we do and hopefully gain new members. We all get busy in our own lives and some of us get tunnel vision and don't know exactly what's available out there in the city of Eagan. This is a great avenue to make people aware of that." "Those who come and participate say that they're surprised we have all these local organizations and how much fun it is," Garrison said. "It's a great one -stop shop to fully appreciate all there is to get involved in with the community." Vendor applications are due April 1. For information, visit ci.eagan.mn.us. In the Community,With the Community, For the Community .tarts recycling business Approximately 40 other fifth -grade students from the Midwest will be travel- ing with Selena. They have the chance to meet with each other before they leave, learn about their destination and pre- pare for their travels. "I learned their seasons are the exact opposite from here so it will be almost winter when I go there in June," Selena said. "I am mostly excited because it is a once -in -a -lifetime opportunity since not many fifth graders get a chance to go on an educational trip like this. I'm looking forward to it a lot." "Knowing Earth Day was coming up in April, we thought that providing a recycling service would be a great way to get involved in the local community by making it easier for local residents and businesses to support her by recy- cling their laptops, cell phones and ink cartridges, which will help us raise money for her trip tuition without the need to ask them for money," Lori said. The People to People Ambassador Program is open to students, athletes, educators and professionals. The organ- ization has more than 500,000 alumni 3 family owned iasiness. omes and businesses. Andrew's perfectionist pproach to every job and the extent of his kill set have made him one of the best crafts - tan in the Twin Cities. My other two sons run the painting end of le business and are also professionally trained ,rtists. Jeremiah attended the Minneapolis 'ollege of Art and Design and later studied nder the mentorship of the nationally mowned portrait and fresco painter Mark alma. David similarly was accepted into a i11 time master apprenticeship program at the oung age of 16 at the highly respected Atelier ack Studio. They followed in the family tra- ition of mastering a professional craft and all which they have brought to our company. etween the two they offer 25 years of experi- nce painting interior and exterior homes in the letro area with our family business. A&J Painting takes great pride in our ability ► make a true and lasting impression on you. can't tell you how many letters and calls I ave received over the years from customers. ,ho just wanted to share with me what a great ►b we did. We hope to have the opportunity to o so with you as well. We are only a call or •mail away to offer you a free estimate of our rofessional services. and visits destinations on seven conti- nents. To be accepted into the program, Selena was required to pass an inter- view and submit three letters of recom- mendation. She will represent her school, community, state and country while traveling abroad. "I like being a student ambassador, because it's a tremendous learning expe- rience, and I'm already learning and doing things I wouldn't normally be doing, making me a better person and becoming more culturally aware," Selena said. "It's an opportunity that we couldn't pass up," Lori said. "It's a great educa- tional opportunity for her and it will be a trip that will set her on a path that she wouldn't normally take. As a parent, we really encouraged her to go for it, and said that if this is what she really wants to do and works hard at it, we can defi- nitely make it happen." Selena started an online blog to talk about her student ambassador experi- ences. It can be found at exploringyour- world.blogspot.com. To donate, call 952- 220-9242. COMMUNITY NOTES Wescott Friends The Friends of the Wescott Library is sponsoring two upcoming workshops in March and April about getting organ- ized and starting a new business. "Getting Organized!" meets 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, and "Are You Ready to Start a Business?" meets 7 p.m. Thursday, May 19. Each free one -hour presentation meets at the library. Call 651-450-2900 to register or for more infor- mation. No Motels, No Hype Just Honest Pricing Everyday ! COIN BUYER Pdui`Runze Since 1962 Gold &Silver Too - Old Coins, Currency, Jewelry GROVE COIN CO www.grovecoin.com MAPLE GROVE • 651-788-6532 Maple Ridge Center - 9700 63rd Ave N, Suite 9676 NW Corner 63rd & Hwy 169 Tues, Th, Sat 10-6 WOODBURY • 651-738-8352 Tamarack Village Center • 194 & Radio Drin Collectors Gallery next to Old Navy Mon -Fri 10-5 Eagan Apple Valley Rosemount cpu, minnlocal.co URRE March 31, 2011 • V36.13 In the Community, With the Community, For the Commun Lawrence Linkert, a 72-year-old resident of Eagan, has donated his time, effort and resources to maintain St. John's Cemetery for nearly 53 years. He was recently recognized during this year's State of the City address in Eagan. (Jeff Barthel • Sun Newspapers) It's quiet where he works Linkert a legend at St. John's Cemetery in Eagan BY JEFF BARTHEL SUN NEWSPAPERS He's not paid to do it and wasn't asked to do it, but Lawrence Linkert has cared for and main- tained St. John's Cemetery in Eagan for more than half a century. "Nobody else wanted to do it. It was sitting there and the grass was growing, it looked terri- ble ... and I've got rela- tives in there," said the 72-year-old Eagan resi- dent. His volunteer efforts were recently recognized during Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire's State of the City address. Every year, along with the help of family and friends, Linkert has his own time and energy caring for the near one -and -a -quarter century old cemetery. Why? "I don't know," he said, pausing for a few moments. "I was com- pelled ... I was compelled CEMETERY: TO PAGE 13 PETS stories and Wogs online at www.MinnLocal.com 'HI, SOCIETY' Jennie Olson's blog about life in the Twin Cities is at www.MinnLocal.com 2011 -www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community ents give back through SkiIIsUSA sUSA prepares students for rade, technical and skilled ations. arlos Alvarez joined the ogram last year after seeing tes return from an annual aining weekend. pictures and what they did ch fun they were having," "I went to state last year and the service project with a d a promotional bulletin en I went to nationals with or refinance tty metro area! :diva • St. Paul Wings Financial checking account and >tl/11 and are subject to change at any time. NI by NCUA. in , S FINANCIAL Cassandra, and that was just an amazing experience. It's been so much fun and I met so many people." Twenty-one registered juniors and seniors make up the Dakota Ridge SkillsUSA team. The national organiza- tion has 13,000 school chapters in 54 state and territorial associations. Students in the Dakota Ridge SkillsUSA program complete 500 hours of community service every year by visiting homeless shelters, having a Meals On Wheels route and par- ticipating in mentoring programs. "We do a lot of stuff together as a group, and we go out in the community and do things with other people," said junior Hannah Solinger-Hillenbrand. "One of SkillsUSAs themes is giving back to the community," said SkillsUSA program advisor Carrie Wilson -Smith. "It does a great deal of self-esteem build- ing and gives a sense of accomplish- ment." The students participating in SkillsUSA must complete a service proj- ect each year. For this year's project "For the Love of Reading," students collected more than 2,000 donated books, and also built bookshelves given to the Rosemount Family Resource Center Tuesday, March 22. Families can take home the books, and the SkillsUSA team will replenish the bookshelf for the whole year. "The community service team did everything," Wilson -Smith said. "They voted on it, planned it and executed it." Diamond Path School of International Studies, Rosemount High School, Valley Middle School and Shannon Park Elementary School hosted book drives to help the Dakota Ridge SkillsUSA pro- gram reach their goal of 1,000 books. In the end, 2,322 were collected. "The kids are devoted to doing this project and devoted to doing a lot of other things, and it's just great to see them involved in something that's valuable." Wilson -Smith said. "I wanted to do something nice for the families who actually really need books and bookshelves," Ersfeld said. "Last year we did a bike drive, and I cried when we gave away a bike to a little boy" As a part of the SkillsUSA program, students can compete in local, state and national competitions to demonstrate occupational and leadership skills. Approximately 2,000 high school stu- dents competed in this year's Minnesota State Skills Conference March 25-27 at the Bloomington Sheraton Hotel. The Dakota Ridge team presented their "For the Love of Reading" service project in front of a committee judging them on planning and execution. The students also competed in other leadership areas, including demonstrat- ing a career in technical skills, giving a prepared speech, presenting the out- standing chapter book, participating in the opening and closing ceremonies and presenting a promotional bulletin board demonstrating the theme of "Respecting all Perspectives." Although Dakota Ridge School is for students with emotional and behavioral disorders, students still compete against general education students in the service project competition. The team also partic- ipates in leadership training with the general education students each year. "Last year at nationals we went to Kansas City, Mo., and I met different peo- ple from all over the state," Ersfeld said. "It's exciting to see different people. My mom even said that she wishes that she would have had this in high school because she's seen it change me." Dakota Ridge students helped build bookshelves to donate to the Rosemount Family Resource Center. From left to right: Deslyn Golden, Cassandra Ersfeld, Hannah Solinger-Hillenbrand, Ariel Pierce and Peyton Melsha. (Submitted photo) 14 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, March31. 2011-www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Qa, Fine Art & Contemporary Works, Primitives, Cott alb 0 N 0 d OD N FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY llam-9pm 9am-6pm l0am-5pm AN ARTS & CRAFTS AFFAIR Hundreds of the Finest Artists & Craftspeople from Across the Country! APRIL 8, 9, 10 Canterbury Park - Shakopee, MN ( Highway 169 to County Road 83 North ) America's Finest Handcrafts ...All for Sale! Handcrafted, One -Of -A -Kind Home Decor & Gifts An Incredible Shopping Experience at a Premium Facility $30 Gift Certificates Awarded Hourly Stage Entertainment, Food, Drink and Family Fun Voted "1 Show In the Country By SUNSHINE ARTIST MAGAZINE Five Giant Areas Free Parking \�.- Fashion show benefits Kids `n Kinship Chicks For A Cause partners with local mentorship program Kinship offers that." "We weren't aware of other programs doing a fashion show as a fundraiser in Dakota County, so we thought that would be a nice, novel idea to go with," said Kids `n Kinship Executive Director Jan Belmore. "Chicks For A Cause thought it BY JENNIE OLSON • SUN NEWSPAPERS would be a good fit for the people they work with to have their products avail - Fashion Week may be wrapping up in able at a fashion show as well." New York, London, Milan and Paris, but Vendors scheduled to be at the show spring fashion activities are just getting include Lillian's of Farmington, started for Dakota County residents. Mainstream Boutique in Apple Valley, The Fashionista Favorites charity La Belle Boutique in Burnsville, fashion show will be 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Houndstooth in Savage, Funky Monkey April 14, at GrandStay's La Grand Event in Lakeville, Salon Onyx in Lakeville, Center in Apple Valley. Chicks For A Indulge Boutique in Eagan and Divine Cause, an organization working with Salon in Eagan. local businesses and vendors for month- Models for the fashion show are vol- ly charity events, is hosting the event to unteers and current mentors. Several benefit Kids `n Kinship, an organization mentors will also speak at the event matching mentors to youth in need of a about their mentoring experiences. Kids caring adult influence. `n Kinship matches children ages 5-16 in "We decided to partner with Kids `n Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Kinship because every child deserves a Farmington, Lakeville and Rosemount healthy and positive role model, and with adult volunteers who spend 1-4 that's what they help these children hours per week with the child. obtain," said Chicks For A Cause "Head Volunteers make a one-year commit - Chick" Sarah Gutierrez. "If they're in a ment to the program and serve as a pos- single family home, they need that extra itive adult role model to the protege support system, and I think Kids `n while having fun and building a rela- S .c. iali_e in " Knoek hoa n Ceiling," Textured/Flat Ceilings & Drvu all Repair. Full Service Painting Contractor. tionship. "Chicks for a Cause focuses on aware- ness and education, so they're providing a vehicle for us to get the word out to the community," Belmore said. "We have almost 70 children on a waiting list who are in need of mentors. Through this event and our mentors speaking people will become aware of the fact that we not only need funding for the program, but we also need actual volunteers to come forward and spend time with the children." A collection drop-off will be available at the event for gently used purses, hand- bags, wallets and other items to donate to Clutch for Cause, an organization working with single parents. Although the event is geared toward women, it's open to everyone and appe- tizers and a cash bar will be available. Tickets for the Fashionista Favorites charity fashion show can be purchased at chicksforacause.com. More informa- tion about Kids `n Kinship is available at kidsnkinship.org. Visit us online at www.mnSun.com for extended news and advertising A&J Painting is a family owned and operated business. A&J Painting is a family owned and operat- homes and businesses. Andrew's perfectionist ed business that was started 15 years ago with approach to every job and the extent of his my sons Andrew, Jeremiah, and David. In skill set have made him one of the best crafts- today's economic climate we have maintained man in the Twin Cities. a healthy business due to our professional My other two sons run the painting end of the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com -Thursday, March 31, 2011- Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 13 emetery OM PAGE 1 do it, and it doesn't bother me because e been blessed. So it costs me a little oney every year, it isn't that much." Linkert, who has lived in a house less an a mile south of the cemetery (at e intersection of Blackhawk and iffley Roads) since 1968 with his wife, net, said several of his family mem- rs have been buried there - including s parents and grandparents, as well as nts and uncles. "I've worked on it (since) before they ed," Linkert said. "They had plots ere already." He has been retired for 13 year now, t has been doing this long before his years working for West Publishing, a mpany based in St. Paul when Linkert gan working there, which later moved Eagan. He also worked in energy anagement where he said he did sev- al fix -up types of jobs, such as heating d air conditioning, electrical work, ow removal, hazardous waste moval and operating a forklift. "I'm a mechanical guy," Linkert said. I can see it in my head when I do stuff." He said he learned to be that way rom growing up on his grandma's farm n the Eagan area near Johnny Cake idge Road. He worked there and at his ncle's farm across the street. Linkert's andyman, fix -up nature is part of what makes him good at maintaining the cemetery, where he does a variety of tasks to make sure the cemetery is pre- sentable. "I want to make it look good for every - "Taking care of a cemetery is a lot of work. The ground is often lumpy and uneven, the gravestones do not line up well, and there are often a number of overgrown shrubs and bushes to contend with. I am thankful that we have people like Mr. Linkert." - Debbie Boe, owner and operator of Debbie's Historical and Genealogical Services body," Linkert said. "Keeping it clean and trimmed, trim the trees and bushes, raise the [head]stones when they sink down, fill in holes, stuff like that." "He does an excellent job," Janet Linkert said of her husband. "He keeps it nice and trim, and relatives help out whenever he needs it. I think it's great." "No one's quite sure who actually owns the cemetery, but Lawrence does- n't really worry about that," Maguire said during his State of the City address. "Lawrence, thank you. We're honored by you and your family's spirit and determination." The acknowledgement was a special moment for both Linkert and his family. He was accompanied to the event by his wife, and surprised with the presence of other family members, including his sister Carolyn, daughter Rebecca and grandchildren Ashley and Devin. "It was nice [they] could make it there," Janet Linkert said. "[The mayor] had a really, really nice talk about him." Linkert said he was flattered and grateful for the presentation. "I want to say a special thanks to Mayor Maguire for noticing want I've done with the cemetery," he said. Linkert had a large, engraved stone built for the cemetery in 2002, He and his cousin, Gail Dahlberg, designed the stone together. The two worked with Melgard Monuments in River Falls, Wis., to construct it. The stone facing the Blackhawk-Diffley intersection was made to replace the cemetery's old wrought iron sign that was rusted and falling apart, Lawrence said. Through the years, Linkert has spent a lot of his own money on the grave- yard, such as his purchase of a lawn tractor in 1965. He also said his efforts have been aided by the nonprofit St. John's Cemetery Association. The group, which consists of Lawrence and Janet, collects donations from people such as families who have had loved ones buried at St. John's. The two officially took charge of St. John's after Linkert said the cemetery's records were put in his car one day in 1996 while he was visiting relatives in Mora. Lawrence has taken great pride in maintaining the cemetery, but in con- sidering his age, he said he's recently been looking for someone to pass the duties on to. "In eight more years, I'll be in my 80s," he said. "I've got to get somebody who wants to take pride in it. I don't want to just give it to anybody if they're not going to have their soul and heart in it. I want to see it kept up." He and Janet said they believe to have found the heirs to these responsibilities within their own family. The two will meet these potential trustees - two of Lawrence's cousins and his daughter, Rebecca - within the next couple of weeks. Beyond the duties Lawrence con- ducts to maintain the physical condi- tion of the graveyard, he also charts out the plots for incoming bodies to be buried and assisting with funerals, where he helps people find spaces to park their cars. Professional researcher Debbie Boe said what Linkert does is laborious and admirable. "Mr. Linkert, and others like him, are unsung heroes," said Boe, owner and operator of Debbie's Historical and Genealogical Services in Chaska. "They quietly provide their services (to the rest of us), often with little or no com- pensation or thanks from anyone. Taking care of a cemetery is a lot of work. The ground is often lumpy and uneven, the gravestones do not line up well, and there are often a number of overgrown shrubs and bushes to con- tend with. I am thankful that we have people like Mr. Linkert." Not looking for money or credit, Lawrence said simply, "I want to do the best I can for the families that are buried there." EDUCATION Eagan " Cedar Grove youth home holds community open house Public can tour facility, learn of volunteer opportunities with residents at Lincoln Place in Eagan by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Lincoln Place, a first -of - its -kind housing develop- ment for young adults in transition, is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a community open house from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Thurs- day, April 7. The event is an oppor- tunity to showcase the eco- friendly, LEED-certified facility, built by the Dakota County Community Devel- opment Agency in Eagan's Cedar Grove redevelopment area. But organizers are also looking to highlight volun- teer opportunities available to the public. "We're interested in hav- ing an active, engaged role in the community," said Aman- da Flynn, program manager for The Link, a non-profit that provides supportive ser- vices and round-the-clock staffing to Lincoln P .. The 24-unit facility pro- vides independent apart- ment living with supportive services for 18- to 24-year olds who are at risk of be- coming homeless. "The people we're serving are aging out of foster care with no real direction or place to go," Flynn said. The facility, which has a waiting list, also serves resi- dents who have been living in shelters, as well as those who are at odds with fam- ily members and can't live at home anymore. About 20 percent of residents have been diagnosed with a men- tal illness, she said. Lincoln Place and The Link aim to give these young adults some structure, over- sight, and direction with the ultimate goal of self-suffi- ciency. "We want to build self- supporting services with each resident, with the goal move out and • Photo by Erin Johnson Lincoln Place, which provides secure, sober housing and supportive services for young adults transitioning from foster care or at risk of becoming homeless, will open to the public for tours and questions from 3:30 to 6 p.m. April 7. no longer need this type of housing," said Julia O'Brien, director of development and marketing for The Link. Support staff from The Link help residents with ev- erything from learning how to clean their apartments to filling out job applications, and an on -site case manager works with each resident on an individual su..ort .lan to help them succeed. But support from the community is also needed, O'Brien said. Basic needs include dona- tions of non-perishable food and household items. "When residents come to Lincoln Place, they need toi- let paper, bedding, kitchen items," she said. "Many of th-1, I .ve been homeless, so they don't have those items." There are also numer- ous volunteer opportunities available. Community mem- bers, groups or businesses can give their time to help teach residents various life skills or even hobbies. Current community vol- unteers include those help- ing residents learn to cook, knit, and budget their mon- ey. "Some of the residents haven't been taught to do basic skills that you and I probably picked up from our families," O'Brien said. Other volunteers help with cleaning, painting and other chores. Volunteers from Thomson Reuters will soon do some landscaping and planting on the prop- erty, and some local organi- zations have adopted a room in the facility and set it up with the basics before a resi- dent moves in. Residents are re uired to have 20 hours a week of productive service, which includes either schooling or work, so there are also tu- toring and job skills training opportunities. Flynn said she has gotten several calls from residents and groups over the past year asking how they can help Lincoln Place residents. "I'm really impressed with how interested commu- nity members in Eagan are with our program. We want to foster that," she said. "We encourage people to call if they have a skill or ability to contribute. We will find something for everyone who wants to help." Lincoln Place is located at the corner of Gold Trail and Cedar Grove Parkway. For more information, call Julia O'Brien at (612) 767-4479. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Photo by John Gessner Minnesota Department of Transportation crews continued on March 29 to construct a temporary dike along the northbound lanes of Interstate 35W to combat the rising waters of the Minnesota River. The dike and the closure of Black Dog Road from northbound and southbound I-35W will remain in place until the river's high water recedes. THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS State legislators are battling over whether integration funding is effective in Minnesota school districts. But all they have to do is look to the Rosemount -Apple Valley - Eagan School District for an in- dication. The state pays approximately $90 million annually to districts for transportation and programs to increase diversity and close the achievement gap. District 196's magnet schools, which are supported in part by integration funds, have contin- ued to make strides in closing the achievement gap. "Integration has been extreme- ly successful in our district," said Scott Thomas, integration and equity coordinator for District 196. Integration funding attempts to close the racial achievement gap while improving student e eing racially isolat- ed and were turned into magnet schools. Since then, both schools have made strides in boosting diversity and in meeting Adequate Yearly Progress — performance goals based on test scores, attendance and graduation rates. Cedar Park failed to meet AYP in 2007 in math among Hispanic, special education, English -Lan- guage -Learners, and free -and - reduced lunch students. Within three years, the magnet school made AYP in all these ar- eas, but lagged behind in reading scores among ELL students. Glacier Hills failed to meet AYP in 2008 in math and read- ing among black students and in reading among free -and -reduced lunch students. Within two years, all students met AYP in math, but the school failed to meet AYP among black and free -and -reduced lunch stu- dents. The district's other magnet ee-an (educed lunch and special educa- tion students. By the following year, the school made AYP except in read- ing among its Hispanic students. "It's difficult to tell whether integration funds directly has an effect," said John Linder, who analyzes scores for District 196. "But it gets students access to programs they would not have without it." Diamond Path, for instance, has a Chinese language emphasis that enables elementary students to learn the language and culture. Thomas noted that all three magnet schools have waiting lists and participation in its gifted and talented and young scholars pro- grams has grown over the years. "There is no question that our magnets are high quality schools parents want to send their kids to," he said. Despite this progress, Rep. Pat Garofalo, R-Farmington, is con- vinced that integration funding in its current form is ineffective. See District 196, 11A Adelmann's market is no more Longtime produce stand in Eagan, once the subject of property fight with MVTA, will become part of bus garage by Erin Johnson EWSPAP Nurse allegedly caused crash while on patient's drug by John Gessner THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A nurse at Fairview an who turned out to be a patient of hers. When officers contacted atient she said Baird had This spring will mark the first in nearly 50 years that Betty Adel- mann's flower and vegetable mar- ket, which she ran from her Eagan property, will not open for busi- ness. Adelmann died last year at 74, and her property has been sold to the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority, the very entity she suc- cessfully thwarted from an emi- nent domain takeover eight years ago. At the time it was something of a hollow victory for Adelmann, who watched as the MVTA built a bus garage around her market and the home where she raised her seven children. But she continued to sell fresh produce for years afterward, and hoped her children would contin- ue after her death. Adelmann's children said they would have liked to keep the mar- ket going, but knew the MVTA was looking to expand its bus ga- rage. "Basically, we were edged out of there," said son Bruce Adelmann. Officials from the MVTA said the Adelmanns were willing sell- ers. An MVTA attorney did con - Photo by Erin Johnson Betty Adelmann, who died last year, ran her flower and vegetable market from the corner of Highway 13 and Shawnee Road in Eagan for nearly 50 years. a tact the family about the property after Betty Adelmann's death, said MVTA Financial Officer Lois Spear, "and they expressed an interest in selling it." Bruce and his brother, Mike, said the market has been around as long as they've been alive, and both worked there when they were growing up. Bruce ran the stand last sum- mer after Adelmann died, and said customers were universally disappointed to hear the market was closing. "They kept saying, `Where are we going to get our corn?' " he said. Every year from April to No- vember, Betty could be found sell- ing plants, vegetables, pumpkins and gourds from her corner on Highway 13 and Shawnee Road. But her sweet corn in particu- lar had gained a loyal following See Adelmann, 11A keville • MN CHEV • DODO • Ike Belzer rolet sold. ynpala LS 0, V-6, IL POWER OPTIONS P membert re<ei,e additional S 1000 off AS LOW AS 1.9% APR GM CERTIFIED oiieioun oeater EN TRUCK COUNTRY 25 SILVERADOS TO CHOOSE FROM 2008 SUBURBAN Fully loaded $ 33,900 2007 AVALANCHE 2 It Pkg, Sharp $ 26, 800 2005 AVALANCHE 271 PKG 89,000 miles $18, 700 2007 TRAILBLAZER LS In the Community, With the Community, For the Community 31z�1ZL�, Biannual `Showcase Eagan' returns to town this summer Trade show promotes nonprofits, opportunities BY JENNIE OLSON • SUN NEWSPAPERS Organizations looking to participate in this year's Showcase Eagan have until April 1 to join the fun. The city of Eagan has offered city- wide events throughout its history to show community members opportuni- ties for involvement. Its latest effort is Showcase Eagan, a biannual trade show that connects citizens with local non- profits, community groups and civic organizations in Eagan. This year's showcase event will take place 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 2, at the Eagan Civic Arena. Before Showcase Eagan emerged in 2007, the city had an event called the City Services Open House during National Public Works Week, where city departments promoted their roles in the community. But after seeing some decline in attendance over the years, Eagan Community Relations Director Tom Garrison said they decided to open the event up to other local organiza- tions. "Those who feel more connected to what's going on in the city rate [quality of life] higher than those who do not," Garrison said. "This is an effort to con- nect people to all the things that there are to do and experience in Eagan." Big Brothers Big Sisters is one such organization that has participated in the trade show in the past to raise aware- ness for one-on-one mentorship pro- grams. "We have a need for kids in that area, so we're always looking to advertise our programs to the members of the com- munity just to get more people aware of what we do and that we're available in the city of Eagan," said Senior Marketing Coordinator Mike Marcotte. "We're always looking for more volun- teers and kids, so that's why we go, and it's definitely worthwhile for us." Marcotte said that participating in Showcase Eagan has helped their organ- ization overall. "We really rely on grassroots and get- ting the word out, whether its through events like this or word of mouth from our current volunteers," Marcotte said. "As a nonprofit, we really appreciate things that are low-cost or free because Eagan we're working with a limited budget. It's a great way to get to a mass amount of people at one time." Showcase Eagan typically draws 1,200-1,400 attendees and 50 organiza- tions each year. In addition to vendor booths, there are opportunities for kids to sit in a fire truck and squad car, or visit the police dog exhibition. Garrison said the city opts to host the event every other year to keep excitement fresh. "We're all different pieces of what makes a community, and that's one of the things that we're stressing," Garrison said. "One of the city council's goals is to enhance a sense of civic pride, community engagement and vol- unteerism, so [Showcase Eagan] ties very much to that goal." Cheerful Givers, a nonprofit that pro- vides toy -filled birthday gift bags for less fortunate children, has participated in the showcase every year. They look for civic, corporate, school, faith -based, and family volunteers to provide and assem- ble birthday gift bags for kids. "We decided to be a part of this because, as a nonprofit organization based in Eagan, we look for support from the local community with volun- teers and donations on an ongoing basis," said Cheerful Givers President Karen Kitchel. "The showcase is an opportunity to raise the awareness of our charity, and to thank those who con- tinue to provide support." This is the same reason that local fra- ternal organization Dakota County Elks Lodge 2832 has been in the showcase since 2007. "We're very active in veterans, com- munity affairs, and the youth, and by getting out in situations like Showcase Eagan it helps us let people know about the work we do and hopefully gain new members. We all get busy in our own lives and some of us get tunnel vision and don't know exactly what's available out there in the city of Eagan. This is a great avenue to make people aware of that." "Those who come and participate say that they're surprised we have all these local organizations and how much fun it is," Garrison said. "It's a great one -stop shop to fully appreciate all there is to get involved in with the community." Vendor applications are due April 1. For information, visit ci.eagan.mn.us. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community .tarts recycling business Approximately 40 other fifth -grade students from the Midwest will be travel- ing with Selena. They have the chance to meet with each other before they leave, learn about their destination and pre- pare for their travels. "I learned their seasons are the exact opposite from here so it will be almost winter when I go there in June," Selena said. "I am mostly excited because it is a once -in -a -lifetime opportunity since not many fifth graders get a chance to go on an educational trip like this. I'm looking forward to it a lot." "Knowing Earth Day was coming up in April, we thought that providing a recycling service would be a great way to get involved in the local community by making it easier for local residents and businesses to support her by recy- cling their laptops, cell phones and ink cartridges, which will help us raise money for her trip tuition without the need to ask them for money," Lori said. The People to People Ambassador Program is open to students, athletes, educators and professionals. The organ- ization has more than 500,000 alumni 3 family owned isiness. mes and businesses. Andrew's perfectionist proach to every job and the extent of his lI set have made him one of the best crafts- : n in the Twin Cities. y other two sons run the painting end of business and are also professionally trained fists. Jeremiah attended the Minneapolis liege of Art and Design and later studied er the mentorship of the nationally owned portrait and fresco painter Mark Ima. David similarly was accepted into a 1 time master apprenticeship program at the ng age of 16 at the highly respected Atelier k Studio. They followed in the family tra- on of mastering a professional craft and 11 which they have brought to our company. een the two they offer 25 years of experi- e painting interior and exterior homes in the tro area with our family business. &J Painting takes great pride in our ability ake a true and lasting impression on you. n't tell you how many letters and calls I e received over the years from customers just wanted to share with me what a great we did. We hope to have the opportunity to o with you as well. We are only a call or ail away to offer you a free estimate of our essional services. and visits destinations on seven conti- nents. To be accepted into the program, Selena was required to pass an inter- view and submit three letters of recom- mendation. She will represent her school, community, state and country while traveling abroad. "I like being a student ambassador, because it's a tremendous learning expe- rience, and I'm already learning and doing things I wouldn't normally be doing, making me a better person and becoming more culturally aware," Selena said. "It's an opportunity that we couldn't pass up," Lori said. "It's a great educa- tional opportunity for her and it will be a trip that will set her on a path that she wouldn't normally take. As a parent, we really encouraged her to go for it, and said that if this is what she really wants to do and works hard at it, we can defi- nitely make it happen." Selena started an online blog to talk about her student ambassador experi- ences. It can be found at exploringyour- world.blogspot.com. To donate, call 952- 220-9242. COMMUNITY NOTES Wescott Friends The Friends of the Wescott Library is sponsoring two upcoming workshops in March and April about getting organ- ized and starting a new business. "Getting Organized!" meets 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, and 'Are You Ready to Start a Business?" meets 7 p.m. Thursday, May 19. Each free one -hour presentation meets at the library. Ca11 651-450-2900 to register or for more infor- mation. No Motels, No Hype ust Honest Pricing Everyday ! COIN BUYER Gold &Silver Too - Old Coins, Currency, Jewelry GROVE COIN CO www.groVeCOin.com MAPLE GROVE • 651-788-6532 Maple Ridge Center - 9700 63rd Ave N, Suite 9676 NW Corner 63rd & Hwy 169 Tues, Th, Sat 10-6 WOODBURY • 651-738-8352 Tamarack Village Center • 194 & Radio Grin Collectors Gallery next to Old Navy Mon -Fri 10-5 Eagan drops from 8th to 9th largest city in state 2010 Census the ninth largest city in the American Community Sur - state. vey conducted from 2007- shows few The city's population 2009. And county officials surprises for aging - now 64,206 — had a net project Eagan's senior increase of only 649 people population will grow from community in the last 10 years., after 2,674 in 2000 to 16,732 in by Erin Johnson peaking at about 68,000 2020. THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS around 2005, said City Ad- Meanwhile, the percent - The 2010 Census results ministrator Tom Hedges. age of . households with for Eagan were not much Hedges attributes that children dropped from 42 of a surprise, city officials drop to "shrinking house- percent in 2000 to 37 per - said. holds," i.e. children grow- cent today. Unlike some Dakota ing up and leaving home. Hedges said Eagan be - County cities that showed Eagan is on the aging gan its boom years as a significant growth over the side of a city's life cycle, young city with lots of last 10 years, Eagan was al- with its population getting young families with chil- ready mostly built out be- older and fewer households dren, and he believes it will fore the last census period having children. cycle back at some point. began. The percentage of "We're hopeful that we'll While it remains the Eagan homes with at least find young families attract - most populated city in Da- one senior citizen rose from ed back to neighborhoods kota County, Eagan did 8 percent in 2000 to 12 per- and start that regeneration drop from the eighth to cent today, according to an See Eagan, 6A CHEVROLET EXCLUSIVE EXTREME DISCOUNTS & AUTO SNOW BOIJJS CASH ;:iii. o`� Nw& 001 4 1,14 a s AUTO,L CD`+ MP3,ONSTAR LEASE FROM Stia O.* ES P rnn •IITA Opinion/4A Announcements/5A Sports/6A Classifieds/7A Public Notices/10A Real Estate/10A t Citizenry grows, becomes more diverse Increased population may result in more federal funds, a redrawn 2nd Congressional District by Tad Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS If Dakota County grows at the same rate as it has the past 10 years, it might overtake Ramsey County as the second most popu- lous county in Minnesota ... in 20 years. That's a big if as it would mean Dakota County will con- tinue to add an average of 4,264 people each year as it did in the 2000s, which saw a housing boom through much of it. Over the past 10 years, Dakota County's population has grown by 11.98 percent, according to 2010 U.S. Census data released last week. The county added 42,648 residents, which was the highest growth number of any county in Minnesota, pushing its total to 398,552. Ramsey County's population slipped 0.5 percent from 2000 to 508,640 in 2010. Scott County added the second most residents in the past 10 years - 40,430 to account for by far the largest percentage gain of any of the state's counties (45 percent). What these numbers mean is largely undecided at this point in a couple of respects. Dakota County's population gain could mean that more federal funding in such areas as educa- tion, nursing homes and highways will be funneled this way, but that will depend on the structure of the formulas and how the rest of the nation grew, according to Jane Vanderpoel, from the Dakota County Office of Planning and Analysis. Population increases were 9.7 percent for the U.S. and 7.8 per- cent for Minnesota. "All things remaining the same, we might be lucky enough to have slightly more funding," Vander- poel said. See Census, 6A Thisweek's cities grow The six cities in the Thisweek Newspapers coverage area accounted for 77.60 percent of the county's population gain from 2000 to 2010. The six cities also increased the share of the county's population they contain, which grew slightly from 67.27 to 68.38 percent. City Eagan Burnsville Lakeville Apple Valley Rosemount Farmington Total Dakota County Source: U.S. Census 2010 64,206 60,306 55,954 49,084 21,874 21 086 272,510 398,552 2000 63,557 60,220 43,128 45,527 14,619 12.365 239,416 355,904 Change 649 86 12,826 3,557 7.255 8.721 33,094 42,648 % Chg. 1.02 0.1 29.73 7.8 49.62 70.52 13.82 11.98 Photos by Rick Orndorf and John Oessner Dakota County's population is becoming more diverse and older, according to U.S. Census data. Seniors, like those attending a Memorial Day ceremony in Burnsville last year (above), are projected to account for 20 percent of the county's population by 2030. Students in the Burnsville - Eagan -Savage School District at last year's Burnsville High School graduation ceremony reflect the county's increasing diverse population. Percentages in population categories change The 2010 U.S. Census shows that the six cities in Thisweek Newspapers' coverage area are increasing in diversity. The following chart shows the percentage of residents in each category and how that changed from the 2000 to 2010 census. White 1 Black or African American 1 American Indian and Alaska Native rrr Asian r r 2801 Native Pacific Islander t r Some Other Race 1 Two or More Races Hispanic Latino (of any race) 20QQ Apple Valley 83.78 91.8 5.48 1.9 0.39 0.3 5.32 3.4 0.07 0 2.0 0.9 2.96 0.9 4.94 0.9 Burnsville 77.49 87.5 10.03 4.1 0.37 0.5 5.05 4.1 0.86 0.1 3.46 1.4 3.67 1.4 7.89 1.4 Eagan 81.52 88.0 5.62 3.4 0.33 0.3 7.89 5.3 0.75 0.1 1.66 1.0 3.04 1.0 4.5 1.0 Farmington 89.8 95.6 2.14 0.7 0.53 0.3 3.55 1.5 3.33 0 1.1 0.6 2.9 0.6 3.64 0.6 Lakeville 89.31 94.3 2.51 1.3 0.37 0.4 4.55 2.0 1.49 0 1.18 0.8 2.6 0.8 3.49 0.8 Rosemount 87.35 92.8 3.05 2.0 0.39 0.3 5.57 2.1 0.9 0 1.07 0.8 2.63 0.8 3.14 0.8 Source: U.S. Census attend! y THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Burnsville City Council Member Mary Sherry lik- ened Charlie Crichton to Ann -Margret, Bono and Prince. Her late colleague on the council was so well-known, Sherry said, that only a sin- gle identifier — "Charlie" — was necessary. "There aren't a lot of people who can achieve the kind of star power where they're known by one name," said Sherry, one of the speakers at a March 18 memorial gathering for Crichton, who died on March 13 at age 83. The 18-year council vet - A fiscal hawk who voted against most of the city's annual budgets and tax in- creases during his career, Crichton was remembered in a ceremony at the Burns- ville Performing Arts Cen- ter. He famously opposed borrowing and spending $20 million to build the place, but was known to at- tend many events there, too. Crichton's opposition to the arts center and to the Heart of the City down- town redevelopment plan put him at odds with cher- ished priorities of Mayor Elizabeth Kautz, whom he failed to unseat as mayor in A�N2011 Home `FTs FREE A E .Remodeling Show their "specia re ations ip outside the "theater of poli- tics." "When our meetings were done and the vote was taken, Charlie held no grudges about the issues, and neither would I," said Kautz, who has also served for 18 years, making her and Crichton the council's longest -serving members. Crichton knew the city's zoning regulations well and insisted they be followed, even sending pictures of violations to city staffers. Kautz said. He was also an elementa- ry-school "Reading Buddy" who delighted in talking presents the Saturday, March 26th • 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Burnsville High School • 600 East Highway 13 Meet with experts on additions, driveways, finance, basements, bathrooms, doors and windows, permits, closets, cabinets, glass, flooring, heating and cooling, security, landscape, lighting, roofing, siding and MORE! Great Lakes Window & Siding/ Owens Corning Basement M�ilch f� Store R •84 Til Hosted By: Burnsville BURNSVILLE EAGAN SAVAGE ,Meen■,m:arow DISTRICT 191 City of Burnsville Photo by Rick Orn Beth Crichton Huntington shared memories of her late father, Burnsville City Council Member Charlie Crichton, during a memorial gathering March 17. about his students' progress, Kautz said. "He's a softie, isn't he? I don't think a lot of people know that," the mayor said. SMILE AWAY! Voted #1 Dentist by Tbisweek Readers ek erpth D AL YOUR CENTERPOINTE DENTISTS: Paul Krech, D.D.S.; Mike & Angie Zagorski, D.D.S.; Sara Tuchscherer, D.D.S. Complete Preventative. Cosmetic & Restorative Family Dentistry Free Wi-Fi Available www.CenterpointeDentalGroup.com 2 SOUTH METRO LOCATIONS BURNSVILLE Nicollet & Cty. 42 952-892-3808 LAKEVILLE Hwy. 50 & 185th St. 952-435-1818 Burnsville Rotary Club member Wayne Huelskoet- ter praised fellow Rotarian Crichton. "The motto of Rotary is service above self," Huels- koetter said. "Charlie lived that. Charlie was involved in everything our Rotary Club did," including the Reading Buddies program. Huelskoetter, who chaired the old Heart of the City Steering Commit- tee, said he sought to have Crichton represent the City Council on the committee "because I knew he was go- ing to be an issue." Crichton voted against the Heart of the City zon- ing ordinance he worked so hard on as a committee member, Huelskoetter said. "He said, `Well, I'm go- ing to have to enforce the damn thing,' " Huelskoetter recalled. Freshman District 40A state Rep. Pam Myhra said she met Crichton 17 years ago at her first precinct cau- cus. The Burnsville Republi- can and Crichton neighbor said he encouraged her po- litical activism and agreed to chair her campaign when she was weighing a run for office. "Charlie was a great neighbor," Myhra said. "We lived a couple blocks apart. His wisdom was so appar- ent to everybody." Crichton's daughter Beth Crichton Huntington recalled her father's corny jokes, abundant at the old family home in Arden Hills. He taught his children the importance of work- ing for change instead of just complaining, Crichton Huntington said. She recalled delivering brochures during his first campaign, for an Arden Hills City Council seat. "When he was elected, I was so proud of him," she said. "It was another great day to be Charlie Crichton's daughter." John Gessner is at burnsville. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. your outs e roM . Hometown Bealer A JEFF BELZER CHEV'DODGE• KV________ 4940e Photo by Erin Johnson Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire delivered his State of the City address March 17. Seated behind him are City Council Member Paul Bakken (left) and City Administrator Tom o ortunites, challenies New realities'presentpp Mayor's State of the City address focuses on keeping Eagan a `community of choice' in uncertain times by Erin Johnson outlined the current state of Eagan and the many chal- "We gather today in a lenges it faces, as well as op - time of great change and portunities in its future. great uncertainties," said Maguire spoke of upris- Eagan Mayor Mike Magu- ings in the Middle East and ire as he delivered his State Wisconsin, rising oil prices, of the City address to a unemployment, deficits, packed City Council Cham- earthquakes and tsunamis, bers on March 17. all of which contribute to St. Patrick's Day refer- uncertainty about the fu- ences aside, Maguire adopt- ture. ed a more restrained tone He talked about the than in previous years as he "new normal," which chal- THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS lenges such long -held be- is shrinking, it may see the liefs as housing values will elimination of federal Com- continue to rise and our munity Development Block children's generation will be Grants, and it will face in - more prosperous than ours. creasing pressure to cut "And it suggests we are staff and reduce its level of entering a new era of lim- services. ited resources, economic But Eagan is well posi- disruption, and disappear- tioned to face these changes, ing safety nets," he said. Maguire said, thanks to its Eagan's population is fiscally prudent approach. growing older, as are its The city follows several homes, roads, and other key principles: it offers a infrastructure. Its tax base See State of City, 11A WIVL 215 'U IMPAIZA u arw, AVIV 1.8L 4•CYL, ONSTAR, XA1 Auto Show kw 5500 Retention/Conquest... SI.000 On Sole From.. $ 15,499* 2.9°lo x 60 Mos ui MAU BU is AUTO, 4CYL ONSTAR Auto Show Boom Rebate $2,500 Retention Bonus_S2.500 On Sale Fran.. $16,999* *ADD'L $ 1,000 OFF FOR AARP MEMBERS! AUTO, 3.5 Y•6 tujTRAVERsE BUCKET SEATS Auto Show Bonus 5500 Rebate 53,500 Retention/Coaauest.__MAR On Sale From.. $17,999* *ADD'L $1,000 OFF FOR AARP MEMBERS! liSIAUTO, V6 8-PASS TRACTION CTRL. MSRP 529,999 Aura Show Bonus 5500 Retention Bonus 51,000 Rebate 52,000 On Sue From .... $ 24,499 =1llSILYERA6IM °mSILVERADOl15�00j `IIJSILVEBA1.91CRun AUTO, A/C,•FRONT .BENCH EXT. CAB, AUTO,, 4X4, TRAILER PKG L5, 4X4, N.D. TRAILERING 61,000 Miles 2005 SILUERADQ Reg Cab, 4x4, 68,000 Miles 2003 RAM Quad Cab, 4x4, 90,000 Miles Ext tab, 51,000 Miles 1rCAR1D CAR' 2005 NEON Siff "54,900 State of City/from 1A limited menu of services done well, never borrows for operations, pays back what it owes as soon as possible, and takes care of the equipment and infra- structure it has. "Today's users need to pay for today's problems today without kicking the problem down the road to someone else," he said. Eagan, he said, is only one of 16 cities in Minne- sota with a Triple -A credit rating from Moody's, and it has among the lowest per capita spending of Minne- sota cities with more than 50,000 residents. Every two years, Eagan's council members work to- gether to form a unified vi- sion of what will advance the city in a way that best serves its citizens, then work to solve problems and overcome obstacles in their way, he said. "We're not perfect to be sure," he said, "but those who govern elsewhere could do well to note our approach." While the challenges are many, the city's goals for the future include seeking fiscal independence from other units of government so as not to be reliant on them, Maguire said. Maintaining property and reinvesting in infra- structure will also be im- portant to keep the city looking good and maintain property values, he said. The city also plans to support an evolving "infos- tructure" to keep pace with the technology needs of residents and businesses. Attracting a regional data center would create jobs and bring other high-tech businesses to the city, he said. Eagan will maintain its commitment to energy ef- ficiency and environmen- tal sustainability, he said, continuing to implement changes that are not only good for the environment, but that also save money. For instance, using a federal stimulus grant to convert the Civic Arena to geothermal last year is now saving the city nearly $5,000 a month in natural gas costs. "When you combine that with a lowered electric bill, we've decreased total energy expenses nearly 64 percent, reduced our natu- ral gas consumption 97 percent, and conserved an estimated one million gal- lons of water a year," he said. Another goal is to main- tain a healthy demographic balance so young people continue to want to live and work here, and empty nesters choose to remain, he said. But there are limits to what government can do, he said. Civic engagement is also key to the state of the city's future, he said. "There are already Eagan citizens among us making differences big and small. We need more of them," he said. Maguire said he believes if Eagan holds true to its bedrock principles, it can serve as a model that oth- ers may learn from and even aspire to. "If (Eagan) is willing to make the tough decisions, if it is flexible enough to make the mid -course cor- rections necessary to ac- complishing a shared vision, and if we have mu- tual respect for the differ- ent ways to make Eagan the best city in America, we will be that shining ex- ample of not only the city that could, but the city that did grasp its future," he said. Maguire's full State o the City address can b= viewed on the city's websit at ww.cityofeagan.com. Erin Johnson is at eagan thisweek@ecm-inc.com. ..... TT Tflw TTTfw nM/ "I IF '1 P•11.7111,11P111,1F1PWWWWWWWWIlirliMir...."41....111.' pnotist Photo submitted Michael Colucci will deliver his Elvis -influenced brand of comedy hypnotism (dubbed "Mikenosis") at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at the Apple Valley American Legion, 14521 Granada Drive. Colucci will be joined by improv comedy duo The Stagebenders. Tickets are $20 at the door or $15 in advance by calling (952) 431-1776 or visiting www. comedyinfo.com. A video clip of Colucci performing is at http:/lmikenosis.com. b' in Lakeville Calendars can be found online at www.ThisweekLive.com M Special: Butterfly Shrimp Open Monday thru Saturday, 11aato9pm Dine-1n Carry -Out Catering "Chinese Cuisine - ffONG$ Freida L Special SHRIMP ENTREES 4321 County Road 42 Savage, MN 55378 Just two miles west of Burnsville Center I Serving Savage & Burnsville since 1996 www.dfongs.com I 952-894-0800 IAKLVIIIL AK! ARTS cEN I 1 u Savor the Flavors of a World of Music at the Lakeville Area Arts Center! 20965 Holyoke Avenue • For tickets call 952-985-4640 APRIL 3rd - 2 pm Maria Jette, Soprano Zesty Latin American Vocal Music Stephanie Arado, violin; Barbara Leibundguth, flute; David Hagedorn, percussion; nnrl Anriren Stern hnrn ,? / /_J iefing t. Paul Pioneer Press St. Paul LOCAL Friday 4-8-2011 rings Fire puts family of seven out of their home b events 75th anniversary ONLINE St. Paul Figure Skating Club: www.stpaulfsc.org nt takes place at 7 p.m. turday at the Richfield Ice ena, with general admis- n tickets costing $15. The esota Youth Symphony perform. About 2,000 peo- are expected; tickets for A woman and her five children escaped a fire at their St. Paul home late Wednesday, the St. Paul fire marshal said Thursday. The children's father, Tik Souk- chaleum, who had just come home from work, also escaped after he failed to put out the flames with a fire extinguisher. About 11 p.m., firefighters were called to 1067 Wilson Ave. in the Dayton's Bluff neighborhood, said St. Paul Fire Mar- shal Steve Zaccard. The house was engulfed in flames and was threatening St. Paul Concordia offers top spot to Ries a neighboring home. Firefighters protected the adjacent house and put out the fire in a few min- utes, Zaccard said. The fire's cause is under investigation. However, a 7-year-old girl said she was plugging in an electric heater in her bedroom when sparks set the bed afire. Paramedics treated a small burn on the girl's finger. No one else was injured. Damage to the $113,900 home is esti- mated at $100,000, with another $20,000 in damage to the contents. will be collected at City Hall and at the South St. Paul Library until Thursday. On April 15, the task force and the library will host "Reading is Out of this World," The home was not required to include an automatic fire sprinkler system, and it's not clear whether the smoke detec- tors were working, Zaccard said. The Dayton's Bluff Community Coun- cil is collecting money for the family because most of their possessions were destroyed. Contributions can be sent to the council at 798 E. Seventh St., St. Paul, MN 55106, and contributors should note that it's for the family who survived the fire. again, volunteers are needed to monitor the pumps in Afton. The pumps will be turned on at 5 p.m. today and will need to be monitored 24 hours a day until floodwaters recede. A vol- — Rhoda Fukushima Officials tested 839 south- eastern Minnesota deer that were yearlings or older. All were within a 10-mile radius of the location near Pine Island where a deer tested positive for the disease in November. Local TwinCities.com APPLE VALLEY BURNSVILLE EAGAN FARMINGTON HASTINGS INVER GROVE HEIGHTS LAKEVILLE MENDOTA HEIGHTS ROSEMOUNT SOUTH ST. PAUL WEST ST. PAUL Eagan Developer acquires Lockheed campus City to study whether site could be used for a data storage facility By Jessica Fleming jfleming@pioneerpress.com A Minneapolis developer has signed a purchase agreement for the Lockheed Martin campus in Eagan. CSM Corp. will buy the 51-acre site at the corner of Pilot Knob and Yan- kee Doodle roads for an undisclosed sum. According to the company, redevelopment possibilities include retail, office space and a data storage facility, something the city this week commissioned a feasibility study to explore. But city officials were quick to point out that the data center study has not yet begun, and it's unclear which, if any, site a private owner would choose. "If it happens to be Lockheed or another place, the consultants we hired are going to try and make determinations of what's the most viable site," city spokesman Tom Garrison said A data storage center, also known as a collocation facility, is used by telecommunications companies to store data. The kind of site Eagan is interested in attracting would be open to all carriers. The council voted Tuesday to hire consultants Five 9s Digital to study its options and help attract a busi- ness to run a facility. The city hopes the center would be an amenity to help attract and retain high-tech businesses. CSM spokesman Joel Carver said the company wanted to partner with the city to redevelop the site. Compa- ny and city officials have scheduled a meeting, he said. "It is indeed a strategic location in the city of Eagan," Carver said. 'And we know they have some great goals for this property" LOCKHEED MARTIN, 4B > CONTINUED FROM 1B > Lockheed Martin Those goals, said city administrator Tom Hedges, have historically consist- ed of research land development, for which the property is currently zoned. "We are very conscious of our zon- ing," Hedges said. "Things can change as opportunities present themselves ... but I don't want to imply in any way that that means retail and commercial would be the ant+wver for that site." Hedges said the city has a process for evaluating zoning changes, which includes public hearings and council votes. "It would be premature for me to speculate on what will happen," he said. Lockheed Martin, f which announced in November that it would close its E: th, ha tha Jessi 651 yone in Anoka, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington Counties can become a Member. my $299 LENDER Limited Time Offer www.genisyscu.org NCUA • ENISYS CREDIT UNION M em rt4 cow kit. u4uesi VVRm as n�%. Weather radios can be essential during storms by Jim McDonald I can think of many homes system that is antiquated we have come to associate EAGAN POLICE CHIEF throughout the community and clearly misunderstood. the sounding of the sirens Ever struggle with what that have suffered from wa- Let me explain. as a pending severe weather to buy the person who has ter, wind and lightning dam- Everyone is aware of the event. Upon hearing the everything? I would wager age due to severe storms. In sirens that are set off the first sirens, we should make no most people do not have my career, never has the city Wednesday of each month assumptions and immedi- at 1 p.m. They are referred ately seek a media outlet to determine the nature of the activation. Once more defi- nite information is obtained from an appropriate news source, we can make a more informed decision regard- ing our safety. It is important to note, siren noise was never de- signed to be heard while we are indoors. The outdoor warning siren system is just get reliable and up -to -the- one severely injured. what the name suggests. It minute information day or No doubt weather fore- Upon hearing the sirens, we is a system that is sounded night on disasters and sig- casting has become more were programmed to turn to alert people who are nificant weather events oc- sophisticated where me- to a news source and receive outdoors of an imminent curring in our community. teorologists can literally information on what pro- threat. Upon hearing the si- Why the push? It seems determine with pinpoint tective measures should be ren, we need to tune into a like every year our city accuracy when and where a taken. news source for direction. gets hammered with some storm will. strike. However, Because we no longer Not counting monthly form of storm damage. In what has been neglected is have the constant remind- tests, during the 2010 storm weather radios in their experienced damage from a homes and businesses, but tornado. in my estimation, these Through all the notewor- novel little contraptions are thy weather events I have just as essential as a smoke experienced as a police offi- alarm or carbon monoxide cer in this city, only one life detector. was lost. In my estimation, Yes, you too can get criti- with all the wind damage cized by that special person and flooding that occurred for gifting one of the most throughout the years, all of practical and moderately in- us are very fortunate that expensive items on the mar- we have not lost more lives, ket. For about $50 you can nor for that matter, had any - to as "outdoor warning si- rens," and were originally designed during the Cold War in the early 1950s as a way for officials to notify the populace of a pending nuclear attack. I think many of us remember participat- ing in air raid drills while we were in school along with the associated public service announcements regarding civil defense preparation. f were activated six times. It seems every storm season the police department re- ceives complaints regarding the activation of the city's siren system. Some resi- dents maintain the system is overused creating a "boy who cried wolf" association with the warning, while oth- ers wished we would have been more aggressive in ac- tivation because their home was damaged while the si- rens were sounding. Considering the idea si- rens are designed to reach people who are outdoors, what happens in the middle of the night when we are sleeping andmay not hear the activation? For this rea- son, I am suggesting the use of a weather radio. These devices can be set to func- tion like an alarm clock and can be customized to sound for any type of warn- ing issued by the National Weather Service. With Severe Weather Awareness Week wrapping up this week, I wanted to take the opportunity to pro- vide some background on the weather warning system the city relies upon along with some of its challenges. Please take the time with your family or employees to participate in drills to en- sure you are prepared for a weather emergency. No sys- tem is infallible, but having a weather radio along with proper safety measures in place is the best way to en- sure your safety. More information relat- ed to severe weather alerts is located on the police page at www.cityofeagan.com. Look for the link to "Warn- ing Sirens." Jim McDonald is the city of Eagan's chief of police. Porter - Duckworth Gary & Margaret Porter of Lakeville and Steve & Erin Duckworth of Lakeville are pleased to announce the engage- ment of their children Carly Por- ter & Zach Duckworth. Carly is a 2005 graduate of Lakeville High School and a 2009 graduate of the University of St. Thomas. She received her bachelor's degree in marketing and entrepreneurship. Carly is currently employed at the Univer- sity of St. Thomas Admissions Office and is working on her MBA. Zach is 2005 graduate of Lakeville High School and a 2009 graduate of the University of St. Thomas. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science and entrepreneurship. Upon gradua- tion, Zach commissioned as a forming in hundreds of concerts in Minnesota and throughout the world. With Anne at his side, Jerry also performed for resi- dents in local nursing homes and continued to entertain others even after Anne's death in 2008. Jerry brought music and laughter to our family gatherings and holidays, and was without ques- tion, the leader of our band. Eternally reunited with Anne in heaven, we will miss his gentle smile, his contagious laughter, and his wisdom, but his song will live in our hearts forever. Jerry is preceded in death by his wife Anne and brother Michael. He is survived by children Daniel (Liz), John (Julie), Teresa (Tom), Melinda, Mike (Marianne), Steve (Shelly), Patricia (Bob), Chris (Michelle), and sisters Mary Ellen (Phil), Isabella (Stan) and brother Frank (Bonnie). Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, April 11, at 10 AM, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 4625 W. 125th St., Sav- age. Interment St. John the Bap- tist Cemetery. Visitation was at the CHURCH Sunday from 5-8 PM, with a Rosary Service at 7:30 PM. Visitation was also on Monday from 9-10 AM. Memo- rials preferred to the Alzheimer's Association-Minnesota/North Dakota Chapter, 4550 W. 77th St., Suite 200 Minneapolis, 55435. Arrangements through McNear- ney Funeral Home, 1220 E. 3rd Ave., Shakopee, MN 55379, 952-445-2755. www.mcnearney- funeralhome.com Auxiliary in Savage. She enjoyed playing bingo, and collecting coins for her grandkids. Survivors include her 3 sons, Jim of Savage, Bill and wife Jane of Eagan, Tim and wife Katie of Burnsville; 3 grandchildren, Erin, Joe, and Jack. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer; son, John; parents; brothers, Francis and Billy. Special "Thanks" to friends, Dory. Sharon, and Marvel; and Park Nicollet Hospice. Visitation was Saturday, April 9 from 12-2 PM, followed by Funeral Services at 2 PM, all at St. James Lutheran Church, 3650 Williams Drive, Burnsville. Offi- ciating at funeral service will be Pastor William Nordmark. Interment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Funeral Arrangements through McNearney Funeral Home in Shakopee, 952-445-2755. www.mcnearney- funeralhome.com Ann Joan Peterson January 31, 1934 - April 4, 2011. Ann Joan Peterson, age 76 of Lakeville, passed away on April 4, 2011. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Patricia Quinn; parents and her sister, Carol Dyer. Ann is survived by her loving husband of 26 years, Arlyn; children, Kenneth Dedie, Debra Bittle, Lynette Fredrick- son, Larry (Dorine) Peterson, Pilot and served his country as a Naval Aviator in the U.S. Navy. Memorial Service was held on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 2:00 PM at the White Funeral Home, 14560 Pennock Avenue, Apple Valley with visitation 1 hour prior to service at the Funeral Home. White Funeral Home Apple Valley 952-432-2001 annep ews. uneral Services www.whitefuneralhomes.com will took place on Monday, (4/11), at 12 noon at Trinity Lutheran Church, 600 Walnut Street, Farmington. Visitation was 2 hrs prior to service at the church. Interment, Farmington Lutheran Cemetery White Funeral Home, Farmington 651 463 7374 BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY Dave Kingsbury Chapters 7 & 13 Bankruptcy 21 years of experience in Personal & Small Business Cases. Help with foreclosure, wage gamishment, lawsuits, past due taxes, credit cards, medical bills or other debts you Just can't pay. Call today for a FREE consultation. Fee discounts for Veterans & those on Social Security/Disability. (952) 432-4388 www.kingsbutylawoffice.com Offices located in Apple Valley & Rochester. I can bank anywhere. That's why.; +"''"- 28 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, April 21, 2011— www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Price FROM PAGE 1 Students on the 2011 Student Freedom Ride will learn about the indi- viduals who took part in the original Freedom Rides and will have the oppor- tunity to meet some of them as they make stops in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi on their way to New Orleans. "It's always exciting to hear about the iconic moments in America's past, and you always wish that you could have been a part of them and what was going on during those important moments in United States history, so the chance to experience what the 1961 Student Freedom Riders went through was very compelling to me," Price said. Price said he's hoping the journey will inspire him and his peers, saying he expects it to be more emotional than fac- tual when it comes to witnessing the courage of the 1961 Freedom Riders. "Witnessing the courage of normal American citizens to face mobs who wanted to firebomb and close them in boxes and realizing that normal American citizens can stand up to that Celebrate the 3rd Annual Women's Health will reaffirm the civic engagement that I've committed myself to," Price said. "I believe civic engagement is one of the best civil services we can all commit ourselves to. The opportunity to meet the original freedom riders themselves and learn with 39 other civically engaged youth is nothing less than the opportunity of a lifetime." Price said he is also hoping to discuss the state of youth civic engagement with the other freedom riders, adding that many of his college friends seem apa- thetic regarding political and social issues. "I think our parents' tear gas has been replaced by our brand name t- shirts and all their protests have been replaced by our comfort, and it interests me why that's happened and why we aren't more committed to causes like our parents and other generations have been," Price said. Students were selected for the 2011 Student Freedom Ride based on essays they submitted, their commitment to civic engagement, and their extracurric- ular activities. Price learned about the opportunity from Drake University Associate Professor and Director of the Program in Law, Politics and Society Renee Cramer. "I hadn't had him as a student when I *.• \LTI-L.TT„ Register now to attend the free Apple Valley Medical Center Women's Health Evening. 6:OOpm Light supper, health care displays and free screenings had the opportunity forwarded to him," Cramer said. "I got it over an email and thought of him from what I've heard from my colleagues - that he was incred- ibly dedicated to social justice, that he was very articulate and smart, and that he had already really made a name for himself on campus after only being here for a year." "Ryan is a rare student in that he's extremely talented and he has a really sharp mind, and it's rare to find a stu- dent who can combine both of those things, and on top of that Ryan is extremely thoughtful and ethical," said Drake University Rhetoric Professor Joan Faber McAlister. "He's committed to making his community and world a better place and understands that that starts with making himself a better per- son." Price is a double major in rhetoric - communication studies and broadcast news. In addition to being the president of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and vice president for programming on the uni- versity's Interfraternity Council, Price is also the founder and president of Bulldog for a Day, a service group that brings low-income high school students to campus for two days each semester to learn about post -secondary educational opportunities. "He's accomplished quite a bit for a sophomore," said Drake University Director of Media Relations and Public Relations Lisa Lacher. "The program he created to bring high school students to campus to broaden their horizons and get them to think more about college as a possibility for themselves has been very successful as well. Everything I've learned about him is completely posi- tive." for these high school students who are coming from an area where many times those opportunities don't seem possi- ble," McAlister said. "He's so brave and he's really willing to step up and point out problems that need to be addressed and take personal risks." Price credits his education in Rosemount -Apple Valley -Eagan District 196 for paving the way for this opportu- nity. He graduated from Eastview High School in 2009, where he was the vice president of the National Honor Society, a member of the debate team, a page in the Minnesota House of Representatives, and captain of the Apple Valley Police Explorers Post. "I'm very elated that I have the oppor- tunity to go on the ride," Price said. "I also believe that a lot of the education that District 196 provided me with and the environment of my family helped enable me to get on the ride .... I believe in the principal that diversity in America in all its forms is one of our greatest assets to be harnessed. I believe if we learn from the past and begin hav- ing tough conversations, we can fulfill our civic duties more passionately and more responsibly." "I think the benefit for the public of commemorating the historical moment when privileged stood up to injustice and wouldn't take watching people stuffer anymore in dignity, that's an important moment for us as a nation to remember," Cramer said. "I think for Ryan, it would be really unique to see how he brings a 2011 really nuanced and subtle postmodern view to a liberal civil rights movement." "Freedom Riders," a two-hour PBS documentary about the 1961 Student Freedom Bide will premier on PBS's In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com - Thursday, April 21, 2011- Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 27 Caponi FROM PAGE 1 "Sometimes I have trouble pointing out one person [who's inspired me] because everybody contributes," Caponi said. By "everybody," he truly means everybody. "I learn from children, I learn from drunkards, I learn from dummies. I learn from everybody," he said. "I like people that do things in depth. I like to think that an artist is influenced by everything. He assimilates it, but he responds to everything whether he wants to or not, and he owes a lot to that." "We're not born with anything. Everything that we have is borrowed. It's taken," he added. If you have a good idea, you tell me and I understand it, it's mine, too." Caponi was born in Pretare, Italy, a tiny village in the Apennine Mountains on the Adriatic Coast, where he grew up in poverty. He went to only a half day of school and filled the rest of the day with work and play. "At work, we learned practical skills, how to use tools, and how to grow food," Caponi said, as written in his recent book, "Meaning Beyond Reason." "At play we invented games and made our own toys but mostly we enjoyed the free- dom of exploring the outdoors without supervision." It was these childhood experiences that gave Caponi the imaginative impulses and creative thoughts that have led him to the many successes of his adult life. "It was in contemplating nature that I found spiritual fulfillment and the desire to explore other aspects of life," he wrote. In pursuing a career in art, Caponi said he was told there are three places in the United States in which to do so: New York, on the East Coast, San Francisco, on the West Coast, or in the Midwest in Chicago or Minnesota. The Walker Art Center, in Minneapolis, was one of the places that piqued his interest the most. "The Walker is known well in Europe," Caponi said. "It was all the rage for me to work at Walker." Caponi came to Minnesota, found a job at Walker and enrolled in college at the University of Minnesota. Caponi achieved his master's degree at the U in 1946. He then went to Macalester College, where he began mentoring stu- dents in 1949. Before long, he became chairman of the Macalester Art Department - a role he kept for the majority of his 42 years there. He retired from Macalester, and he still has relationships and influence with his former students several years later. In fact, his role as an educator transcends into his views on art. "As an educator I'm most interested in the well-being of people, not just art," he said. "We use art as a means of enriching peoples' life, not as an end itself." Most of Caponi's art is crafted out of stone. His works are creation at its most base and natural form. "I don't prepare for things, I always adlib," he said. "That's the way I am. I sculpt without any sketch; I go right into it with a chisel." Take his home, for example. Caponi has resided in his Eagan home since 1949, when he actually he actually built his house himself. Using his own arms and legs, Caponi constructed his home the same way he constructs his other creations: without a blueprint. "I build the house and my son said, `How the hell can you build that thing when you don't have a full plan?' I just keep on building and when it's finished it's finished," he said. "I'm confident that it's going to be ok. All I have to do is start." As of today, Caponi Art Park officially has a close-knit staff of four: Anthony (founder and artistic director), his wife, Cheryl (executive director), Communications Coordinator Jenna Strank, and Program and Volunteer Coordinator Molly Swailes. Other volun- teers assist with the upkeep of the park, but these four are the park's primary operators. Strank and Swailes are both 23 years old and recent college graduates. Strank graduated from St. Olaf's College in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in Biology with an emphasis in media and environmen- tal studies. Swailes graduated last year, when she earned a bachelor's degree in both art and architecture from the University of Minnesota. "Every time you speak with Anthony, you learn something new," said Strank, a native of Apple Valley who remembers visiting the park as a child. "He's man- aged to sculpt a landscape that incorpo- rates art in a way that still is natural and feels wild here in suburban Eagan. He is a wonderful teacher, willing to share his wide breadth of knowledge and respect for art to the community, and I am hon- ored to know him." "One of the most amazing things about Tony is his strong appetite for life," said Swailes. "Even at 90, he is still searching for answers, seeking new adventures, and building lasting relationships." Caponi's 90th birthday party and the park's spring open house is 1-4 p.m. Saturday, May 7. It is a free event, which includes children's art projects, a scav- enger hunt, street performers and videos about Caponi Art Park. The park's full title is Caponi Art Park and Learning Center. Swailes said there isn't a center as in an actual build- ing. Rather, the park itself is a learning venue for the programs and activities it offers. Upcoming events include: • Family Fun Tuesdays (a children's series offered June 7-Aug. 30); Summer Performance Series, a family -friendly series beginning with the Minnesota Sinfonia June 19; Poets in the Park, a teen poetry slam in May; and the park's Shakespeare Festival, June 24-25. Features of the park itself include the Theatre in the Woods (a large out- door amphitheater with an open-air stage and woodsy, up north atmosphere), Sculpture Garden (a serene scope of land, which boasts over 30 sculptures) and the Trail System (wooded trails that intertwine throughout the park's 60 acres of land). Info: caponiartpark.org, or call 651- 454-9412. First -year Envision Academy of the Arts student Emalee Bluhm, seated, performs "Holy Glory Goes win the Envision Dance Company during a "Journey in Motion" dance performance Wednesday, April 13, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center. District 191 recently announced that the performing arts magnet school would close at the end of the year. (Photo by Joseph Palmersheim • Sun Newspapers) NOW OPEN MON DAY-FRI DAY Magnet school closes due to low enrollment BY JENNIE OLSON • SUN NEWSPAPERS Eagan resident and Burnsville High School senior Patricia "PJ" Glover has been honing her dance skills since she was two years old. When she found out about Burnsville's Envision Academy of the Arts, a performing arts magnet school in District 191, she eagerly enrolled to help improve her modern dancing tech- niques. In time, Envision became more than just a school to PJ. "I fell in love with the place; it really took me by surprise," she said. `All my life I've been taught dance in a very tech- nical way and that one way's right and one way's wrong, but this is a place where I've really grown artistically and emotionally as an artist, dancer and per- former. It opened my eyes to a brand new way of looking at dance." Now, students who have had their eyes opened will have to look for new direction. After two years in existence, low enrollment is causing Envision Academy to close at the end of the cur- rent school year. "It's heartbreaking," PJ said. "It feels like they completely destroyed our home. Since it was such a small commu- nity, we became a family. Many of the students who come out of district aren't going to be coming to Burnsville any- more without Envision" The performing arts magnet school opened in September 2009 with the goal of providing high school students oppor- tunities to improve skills in dance, the- ater and music. Students enrolled in Envision Academy take their academic courses at the Burnsville High School main campus and their performing arts ENVISION: TO NEXT PAGE DO NOT LET YOUR DEBT LOAD KEEP YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT! YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO PREVENT YOUR CREDITORS HARASSING YOU AT HOME AND AT WORK! Avoid cashing in your retirement early or selling your family's assets to pay credit card bills. April 21, 2011 • V36.16 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Page 31 750 Tony Caponi is the namesake of Eagan's Caponi Art Park. His 90th birthday will be celebrated with a party May 7. (Photo by Jeff Barthel • Sun Newspapers) Nearing 90, Caponi reflects on life, park BY JEFF BARTHEL • SUN NEWSPAPERS How does a person light 90 birthday candles? Anthony Caponi, the name- sake of Eagan's Caponi Art Park, celebrates his 90th birth- day next month. A party will be held in his honor Saturday, May 7. While Caponi recognizes the achievement of 90 years of life, the Italian -born Eagan resident said he's apprehensive of any attention toward him and feels the celebration and adoration should be directed more toward his 60-acre park than himself. The park, which was created in 1987, is on Diffley Road in Eagan a few blocks east of Pilot Knob Road. "We initiated this movement [to create the park] of using open land to bring art and nature together," he said. "People think of art in a gallery or at a museum and a lot of peo- ple don't go to those places. Over here they can come the way they are. We represent all the arts. That makes us unique. We're more holistic." Although he is an artist, Caponi said he's a bit uncom- fortable with being called an "artist," or with "art" being attached to his park's name. He doesn't care for the terms in the way they are often conjoined or stigmatized with elaborate art galleries or museums. Caponi draws his inspiration from many places. He recognizes artists and said if he had to choose a favorite it would be Michelangelo. But Caponi's greatest inspiration, he said, is everyone. CAPONI: TO PAGE 27 'INION These pages are provided as a forum to debate ideas of interest and importance in our communities. Signed letters should be no longer than 250 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers and address for verification purposes. Submitted letters and columns become the property of Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and publish them in any format, including online. Eagan • Apple Valley • Rosemount Visit us online at minnlocal.com Page 6 abilities call out for a dumbfounded `Wow' ne he td 0 JOSEPH PALMERSHEIM Sun -Current Managing Editor me to the Internet, me to tweet and go on k, and now wakes up y "sleep cycle" is at its lightest. one else amazed by the t we are basically carry- 1 computers around in kets all the time? The dge (or relative igno- epending on what you of the world is at our ips thanks to a little that stopped being a telephone years ago. on BBC.com, there were 5 bil- lion cellular phones for 6.9 bil- lion people on the planet. There is also the following statement to consider: according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, it took mobile phones 14 years to reach 50 percent of U.S. households, compared with 56 years for the telephone, 20 years for the personal computer, 10 years for the Internet, nine years for radio and five years for television. Not bad for a device which even 15 years ago was consid- ered a semi -snobbish luxury worthy of jokes from Jay Leno. In the late 1960s, people were amazed at the futuristic gad- getry on "Star Trek," like the communicators which allowed Ca . tain Kirk and Spock to In forty years, our human space explorers yet to go fur- ther than the moon, but when it comes to communications, we are fast surpassing what was dismissed as improbable sci- ence fiction only a generation or two ago. Does anyone else realize just how cool that is? As for my review of Sleep Cycle, the first night was incon- clusive. My four -month -old already wakes me up many times at night regardless of the depth of my sleep cycle, and has lately taken to emitting des- perate squawks in the middle of the night that drive my limbic system into the red. This was documented in a graph of my second night's sleep with the app. It was a series of clustered and 'a::ed leaks resembling a Eagan • Apple Valley • Rosemount s URRENT In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Circulation: 952-392-6860 For business advertising: 952-392-6894 • advertise@acnpapers.com To place a classified ad: 952-392-6888 Send news items or letters to the editor 1o: Sun -Current 33 Second St. NE P.O. Box 280 Osseo, MN, 55369 Phone: 763-424-7380 Fax: 763-424-7388 jpaimersheim@acnpapers.com Joseph Palmersheim, Managing Editor jpalmersheim@acnpapers.com 763-424-7380 Jennie Olson, Community Editor jolson@acnpapers.com 763-424-7392 Mike Shaughnessy, Sports Editor mshaughnessy@acnpapers.com 763-424-7383 Jason Walker, Design Editor In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com -Thursday, April 21, 2011 - Apple Valley, Rosemor Eagan enticing businesses with potential ter BY MICHAEL RICCI • SUN NEWSPAPERS It may be a little frustrating when your Internet connection goes down, but it is another case entirely to lose mil- lions of dollars in the event of a telecom- munications stoppage. This scenario is what city of Eagan officials wish to avoid by establishing a major telecommunications hub in the city. The hub would not only provide service to the existing and potential future businesses but would also allow hi -tech business owners in the region to breathe a little easier. In its continued effort to achieve this goal, the Eagan City Council approved a feasibility study April 5 to determine the best location where a new data hub can be constructed or to find a suitable loca- tion that can be converted. The contract was awarded to Five9s Digital, a firm based in North Carolina experienced in site selection studies for these types of multi -tenant facilities. Known as a collocation facility, the hub would provide the upper Midwest region its second facility of this type. The one facility serving the region is in Minneapolis where all of the regional carriers come together. "It is what they call a single point of failure. One company could lose $1 million a minute should the building go down," said Eagan Communications Director Tom Garrison, adding most of the states have two or more colocation facilities. Garrison went on to say the current facility was never designed to handle such a large capacity If realized, the Eagan hub would go beyond its role of supporting the technological needs in the region by pro- viding the technology that the city needs to retain and attract good jobs. "We are trying to act as a catalyst or tipping point to make sure that private investment in solutions happens here in Eagan and south of the river to ensure our competitiveness," said Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire. Eagan's goals, among others, include anticipating an increased need for such a facility. Between 2000 and 2006, the Twin Cities as a whole experienced a 6 percent decrease in what is known as knowledge workers, those employed in various aspects of the technology field. Dakota County and the city of Eagan both experi- enced increases in this area. The county had an increase of about 9 percent, while Eagan experienced an increase of nearly 15 percent, Garrison said, adding that the city council feels that technology is cru- cial to the future of Eagan. The council's approval of the project followed a great deal of work by a local advisory panel, known as the Technology Working Group. It was cre- ated in 2004 to advise in ways not only to ensure but also to increase communica- tions services in the city. The group consists of top technology managers from small and large Eagan businesses, city residents, individuals from other city advisory commissions, and the city's community development and communications directors. The entire project is still in process, accord- ing to Director of Administrative Services Gene Van Overbeke, but will go back to the city's finance committee for review after an audit is completed. Following the review, the committee will go before the council for sources of one or more fu cost for the stuff "[City offic most appropr finance it," Va Approval o± stituted the fi project. The n determine m ogy that the have. } 8 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, April 14, 2011 - www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Cedar Avenue bus rapid transit project construction starts BY JEFF BARTHEL • SUN NEWSPAPERS Looking to improve its transit options, Dakota County is taking a big step forward with its Cedar Avenue Bus rapid transit project. Construction for the project began this month. "The overall project has been a long time coming," said Dakota County District 7 Commissioner Will Branning. Branning said the construction is the first time people can visibly see evi- dence of the project for themselves. According to the 2010 Cedar Avenue Transitway Implementation Plan Update Final Report, the project has been in development since the late 1990s. Construction began April 4 in Lakeville, where the outer southbound lane of Cedar was blocked off between 155th St. and Dodd Boulevard. Dakota County Construction Engineer Ross Beckwith said barriers should be up on both the northbound and southbound sides of Cedar by the end of April. From there, construction will gradually move upward into Apple Valley. The entire con- struction zone for the project will run from Dodd to 138th Street. The overall project has been a long time coming.' —Dakota County District 7 Commissioner Will Branning Beckwith said the construction plans are broken up into two sections to be fin- ished this year and next. "By November of this year, we'd like to be up just north of County Road 42." Beckwith said. "Have it all done, the roadway itself, and the sidewalks, basi- cally [we] hope to have everything done and pack up before it snows." The goal, he said, is to complete the construction for the remainder of the Cedar bus rapid transit project corridor (from 42 to 138th) in a similar timeframe next year. Beckwith and his staff started construction by putting up the barriers. As the process moves forward, Beckwith's crew will put up retaining walls. These walls are to be constructed at the edge of JJJjrr rJJ' .J J Why replace your windows when you don't need to? Homeowners...lfYour House is 8 Years Old or Older...Let Us REPLACE Your FOGGED or DAMAGED GLASS and SAYE 2/3 the COST of WINDOW REPLACEMENT! We provide complete Glass and Mirror Service (Installation We can do it for you. FOGGED? BROKEN? MOISTURE IN BETWEEN? FREE IN -HOME ESTIMATES AVAILABLE Member of BBB and Arlgi@S IiS#. 1092 1 Excelsior Blvd • Hopkins 41, 952-314-4664 OUTLET INC. www.glassandmirroroutlet.com HOURS: M-F 8am-5:30pm Sat gam-1 pm people's properties to widen the area they are working on so there is plenty of room for the corridor to be extended. Crews also look for any utilities that could be located in the area between the existing lane and the retaining wall. Branning said the bus rapid transit project project is necessary for the future of transportation in Dakota County. Bus rapid transit, he said, is similar to the light rail, only that constructing a light rail or new highway lanes across the Minnesota River is implausible. "We're not going to build any high- ways," Branning said. "With that in mind, we've had to establish a new tran- sit system to help our residents get around and get to work efficiently" Apple Valley City Manager Tom Lawell sees the benefits of the bus rapid transit project as well. "The project will provide greater transportation options for our residents as they travel the Cedar Avenue corri- dor," Lawell said. "The corridor improvements will also create opportu- nities for businesses near the tran- s'stops to benefit." With construction for the bus rapid 100 GOOD TO BE TRUEI" -New York Post EST MUSICAL.:;, v Tit JERSEY BOYS ORPHEUM THEATRE APRIL 21—MAY 8 (800) 982-2787 • HennepinTheatreTrust.org State Theatre Box Office Groups (10+): (612) 373-5665 TM=w,r JerseyBoyslnto.com.,,.:: ,..,. transit project taking place for seven or eight months both this year and next year, the opportunities this new transit system could provide will have to wait awhile. Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce President Ed Kearney believes business- es will not be affected much because of the construction. He noted that although parts of Cedar will lose one lane on each side, two-way traffic with one open lane for both northbound and southbound traffic would remain open. "We think [the construction] will be well organized," he said. Kearney said there he projects zero to 10 percent drops in business for estab- lishments along Cedar. An important part of assisting these businesses, he said, comes through advertising and sig- nage to show that businesses are open and how to get to them. Kearney said they have done surveys to measure the impact and he is very optimistic that businesses won't be affected much. "It should not affect regular cus- tomers," he said. "We hope that the pub- lic continues dining, shopping and hav- ing fun in Apple Valley during construc- tion." Get your ad in print & online at zip2save.com 4°1-0168 Clean'n'Press° -r PRICE -QUALITY -VALUE Most GARMENTS Cleaned 6 Pressed Repaid No Limit + Environment *'Sc so'e'Ptess' L Coupon expires 6/1/11 r Most SHIRTS Laundered on Hangers Repaid No Limit * Environment Ctosn'n'Pless' L Coupon expires 6/1/11 12601 Nicollet Ave. Burnsville • 952-252-6127 We accept competitors coupons (See store for details/ for location near you: www.clleannpress.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com -Thursday, April 14, 2011 - Apple Valley, Rosemount 8 Eagan Sun -Current 7 Digging for After digging seven holes in the front yard, I began praying to St. Anthony to aid my in my search for St. Joseph. I'd buried the small 1950s-era plastic statue of my namesake saint last July. The act was the last item on a long list of tasks to complete before transition- ing from our Minneapolis house, which was about to go on the market, to my mother-in-law's residence in Burnsville. With my wife pregnant and our little girl fast approaching two, we decided it would be easier to leave the house than constantly keep it show - ready and cleaned. In retrospect, this was a good decision. Now, more than nine months after burying St. Joseph, I couldn't find him. I found a real- ly impressive Junebug, but the statue is still somewhere in the front yard. Sorry about that, Joseph. Selling wasn't easy, but we both felt it was the responsible thing to do. We had done everything we'd been told we had to do to secure a comfortable, mid- dle-class existence. We'd gone to col- lege and worked hard for degrees. We both worked long hours at allegedly prestigious jobs that somehow never caught up to the rising cost of every- day living. The American Dream we bought into seemed just out of reach, as if some invisible sadist was dan- gling our baited hopes on a bamboo fishing pole purely for the delight in seeing our futile leaps and empty grabs. We did everything we were told, yet it wasn't enough. The game changed. The world changed. Now, we needed to change. Walking into the house for the first time after we'd moved out was strange. It wasn't just that we'd spent the prior weeks feverishly working to get it ready to put on the market. It wasn't that footfalls and other noises echoed strangely off the barren walls and wood floors. It was something else - a sense, perhaps, that part of me had already let this place go as a part of my 3ast, even though there was no evi- ience to suggest we'd be leaving per- manently anytime soon. It was a sense that the hard work ad paid off, a sense that good things ould happen if the prayers went to e right place and St. Joseph worked s magic. It was a feeling that the 14 Curs my father-in-law and I spent building a retaining wall were not JOSEPH PALMERSHEIM Sun -Current Managing Editor St. Joseph spent in sticky -sweated vain; that the seemingly endless hours of interior painting were not some Sisyphus -like eternal torture. (Here's a tip on paint- ing stairs: don't.) The initial excitement faded as the days on the market turned to weeks, which turned to months. Initially, I'd expected to have the house sold in a month, but this wasn't to be. It was a sort of phony optimism I maintained despite knowing its falsity, a civilian version of the wartime lie about being home in time for Christmas. The showings came and went, with buyers in a buyer's mar- ket examining a major part of our lives and finding it not up to snuff. After a while, I began to resent the calls about an upcoming showing, knowing that I would inevitably get e-mails saying how the property was "nice," but not nice enough. It was if everything was conspiring against us: the worst housing market in recent memory, the Crosstown Reconstruction project outside our front door and the jet traffic. As if to add insult to injury, the street in front of the house was torn up a week after we went on the market, and not replaced for several months. The gloom started to lift in February, when an offer was made on the house. We accepted, and thus buck- led into the rollercoaster that is the closing process. "T's" need to be crossed, "I's" need to be dotted, and God help you if you make a mistake that goes to underwriting and sends the whole train back to the station to start over again. Eventually, the paper trail led us to a desk facing the couple that bought the house. With a series of pen strokes, we were free, and they were the proud owners of the little home that we'd hated to leave. As my wife and I walked out onto the sidewalk and into the bright afternoon sunshine, I was struck by how ambivalent I felt. The closing lacked the kind of finality and closure I'd hoped it would give us. This feeling turned into a semi -accurate premonition, as both buyer and seller had to re-sign several documents the next day owing to a clerical error. Maybe owning a house is like a mod- ified version of that line from "Hotel California" by the Eagles: "You can check in anytime you like, but you can never leave." ake: Dutch Apple -Cherry -Strawberry -Rhubarb -Cherry -Blueberry 3 Flavors Puff Pastries -Apple Crisp -Peach Crisp Thaw & Serve: Pecan -Pumpkin -Banana Cream -Lemon Meringue Key Lime -Cookies 'N Cream- French Silk Turtle Cheesecake -Sampler Cheesecake All desserts stored and sold frozen for convenience of serving. Faith Covenant Church 12.21 Nicollet Ave. S., Burnsville •52.8•0. 110 Vascular Disease: Are You at Risk? Tuesday, April 26 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. Conference Room A Fairview Ridges Hospital 201 E. Nicollet Blvd. Burnsville, MN 55337 Chris Foley, M.D. Dwight Hager, M.D. Chris Roland, M.D. Are you 50 years of age or older, a smoker, and have a family history of heart and/or vascular disease, diabetes or high blood pressure? You may be at risk for peripheral artery disease (PAD), a hardening and narrowing of the arteries outside the heart and brain. Join us for this FREE event featuring Chris Roland, M.D., Dwight Hager, M.D. and Chris Foley, M.D., physicians at Minnesota Vascular Clinic at Fairview. Fight back against vascular disease by learning about risk factors. prevention and warning signs. Registration is required. Call 612-672-7272. Learn more at fairview.org/vascular cai3 FAIRVIEW RIDGES HOSPITAL 4 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, April 14, 2011 — www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Society preserving Eagan's history one story at a time BY JENNIE OLSON • SUN NEWSPAPERS Starks Saloon on Highways 149 and 55 has been around longer than almost any other business in Eagan. In 1865, Eagan resident Alexander Huard opened a dry good store and saloon as the halfway point between St. Paul and Hastings. Travelers would water their horses at this halfway house, which was also a popular spot for sol- diers stationed at Fort Snelling. Gangster John Dillinger and members of the Ma Barker gang would also reportedly stop in the saloon on trips to the Twin Cities. But the saloon is not the only place in Eagan with an interesting history, and it's the mission of the Eagan Historical Society to bring to light more of these stories to help interpret, collect, and pre- serve the history of Eagan for future generations. "It's a group that is very enjoyable to work with," said Eagan Communications Coordinator and Staff Liaison Joanna Foote. "There's a lot of energy and enthusiasm, and we're always looking for additional folks to come in and help preserve this history" Educating the public The historical society meets the first Tuesday of each month. All meetings are open to the public and are hosted 3:30-5 p.m. in the Eagan Room at City Hall. "We tell a lot of stories, but it's also a good working group," Foote said. "Often times we have people who have lived in the community for a very long time or are descendents of families that have been here that will come to a meeting or two and let us know their connection to the community. Often they'll bring genealogies and photos they've been working on and share them with our col- lection." Members of the historical society coordinate historical activities and events in the community. The group is preparing to host a booth at Showcase Eagan in June, a city event that brings together community organizations and city operations. The society will also be installing a bench at a newly created plaza next to the 1914 Town Hall this spring. The bench will be dedicated in honor of one of the historical society members who passed away this year. Another role of the historical society is assisting in the creation of displays and historical markers throughout the community, which remind and educate the public about Eagan's history. Don Chapdelaine, a third generation of his family to live near Dodd Road, tells his grandsons about his memories of the area at the dedication of the Dodd Road Historical Marker last fall. (Submitted photo) "We've been trying to do one every year, but it obviously depends on fund- ing because we are funded through the city of Eagan," Foote said. Markers are placed at Threshers Field Park, the 1914 Town Hall, the inter- section of Dodd Road and the Highline Trail, and a new one is coming to Robber's Ravine Park this spring. The marker at Threshers Field Park talks about the history of farming and the tradition of threshing, which played an important role when Eagan was a farming community, Foote said. The marker at the 1914 Town Hall describes how the building was used. The building is now the museum for the Eagan Historical Society. "We have lots of displays and arti- facts within, but we are only able to open it a couple times each year, so that mark- er helps us tell that story year-round," Foote said. The third marker, which was installed last summer, is on Dodd Road at the Highline Trail and talks about the history of the road itself and how it was built. Foote added that some of the farms and businesses along that route have been there since the 1860s. A fourth marker will be installed this spring once the ground has completely thawed. "That will be at Robbers Ravine Park, which is in south central Eagan," Foote said. "It talks about the story of Farmer [Patrick] Quigley and his encounter with what he later realized were mem- bers of the Jesse James gang on their way to rob the Northfield [National] Bank." Another historical marker in the works will be at the Lexington-Diffley Athletic field, which was owned by Louis Trapp during World War II. "[Trapp] leased some of that land so that pilots from Wold-Chamberlain Field could practice touch-and-go [landings]," Foote said. "They would do take -offs and landings, so they would touch down and take off immediately and go back up in the sky." One of the historical society mem- bers who was a farmer at the time recalled counting more than 40 planes land and take off again one afternoon. "We are always in the process of col- lecting photographs, stories, and memo- ries of Eagan from those who have lived here for many years," Foote said. Capturing recent history But history does not mean that it has to be 100 years old either. "One of our more recent realizations is that the era from 1960 to present has been less captured than some of the real- ly old Eagan history," Foote said, adding that they are now focusing on the late '50s and '60s when Eagan began to devel- op. "We have very little of those sorts of photos or recollections from people, so that's at least another focus we're work- ing on." One resident who has a first -person perspective on Eagan's history is Don Chapdelaine, who has been a resident in Eagan for 80 years, and grew up on a farm that his grandfather owned near HISTORICAL: TO NEXT PAGE In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com - Thursday, April 14, 2011 - Apple Valley. Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 3 FROM PREVIOUS PAGE "It will be a bituminous parking lot meeting our design standards for storm water retention," Pata said, adding that the lot will also have painted parking stripes. Mountain bikers who ride the miles of rolling, single -lane and wooded bike trails especially should be looking forward to the upgrades as construction will also include "an additional 1 mile of beginner mountain bike trail and a skills park." according to the Dakota County Parks website. Funding for the bike trail addi- tions came from a separate trail grant administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Construction for the upgrades is expected to begin in August, at which time the focus will be the new paved parking lot and restroom, and construction on the separate trail is expected to begin at the same time. Some volunteer work, beyond the two projects, is expected to continue beyond August and into 2012. House bill will give back variance authority Cities, counties lost most options to grant variances in 2010 court decision BY MARC INGBER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Minnesota cities and counties may soon regain the authority to grant vari- ances in the way they did for years prior to a recent Supreme Court decision. The Minnesota House approved a bill April 4 that will allow local governments greater latitude to grant zoning variances. The League of Minnesota Cities and a group of allies lobbied for the measure to address the fallout from the lawsuit. A decision handed down by the Minnesota Supreme Court in July 2010 Krummenacher v. City of Minnetonka changed the landscape for variances. In that case, the court ruled, "a munic- ipality does not have the authority to grant a variance unless the applicant can show that her property cannot be put to a reasonable use without the variance." That differed greatly from a 1989 deci- sion that stated a variance could be granted if property owners "would like to use the property in a `reasonable man- ner' that is prohibited by the ordinance." In effect, the 2010 decision made it next to impossible for cities and town- ships to grant variances, except in rare circumstances. "The Krummenacher case actually took what was in practice here for a number of years in the state of Minnesota and made it illegal," said Rep. Tim O'Driscoll, R-Sartell. He esti- mated that $45 million in construction projects in Minnesota were being held up because of the decision. The House bill is designed to clarify the current law so that cities and counties can use the standards that had been in place for decades prior to last year's decision. The bill was amended in the committee process - over the objection of the League of Minnesota Cities - to leave the lan- guage for how and when conditions may be imposed as part of a variance in differ- ent forms for counties and cities. Because of the differences, the League opposed the legislation as it appeared on the House floor. However, an agreement. SPRING CLEARANCE EVENT r , You won't believe our low prices! Art 2,5% TO 60% OFF OVERSTOCKED WITH USED PIANOS OVER 300 NEW & USED PIANOS DISCOUNTED TO THE MAX! TRADE-INS WELCOME • ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED PROFESSIONAL STUDIO PIANO UPGRADE SALE! YAMAHA, KAWAI, KNABE, SOHMER AND MANY MORE! Delivery & Financing Available! All units sold are totail ,i warranted by our c©mpany. Trusted in MN for Over 60 Years! www.pianoworld.net was reached when the bill came up for dis- cussion to resolve those differences with matching language for cities and counties. That agreement was not drafted into amendment fast enough to make it into the House bill. But legislators made it clear a compromise had been agreed to and would be included in the bill when it came back from the Senate, according to the League. The League expects that a companion bill, sponsored by Sen. Gen Olson, R- Minnetrista, will move through the Senate quickly and that Gov. Mark Dayton would sign the final bill. It had not been signed by the time this edition went to press. If approved, the new law would "finally clear statutory variance authority to cities," according to a state- ment from the League. Rep. Ryan Winkler, DFL-Golden Valley, did not vote for the House version of the bill - due to the language discrepancies between cities and counties - but is opti- mistic the Legislature will approve an adequate bill. He believes variances became an issue because the Minnesota Supreme Court in recent years has based its decisions less on intent and common sense interpretation of law. PLAY THE PIANO ON YOUR OWN PLAYER GRAND PIANO Now With Your Own iPad MASTER: TRY OUT THIS NEW TECHNOLOGY WITH YOUR PLAYER GRAND PIANO! 11 T 1 ' OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! WEEKNIGHTS UNTIL 8:00 P.M. PIAN MWORLD • MINteE$OTA'SREADOUARTERS FOR SE miner of Hwy. 55 & I-94. 1 talk. S_ a Best Westernatio GRANDS • VERTICALS • UIGITALS • KEYBOARDS • ORGANS welt Pca to a S"edt paieea y t A + w t,,' `I BBB OPINION These pages are provided as a forum to debate ideas Signed letters should be no longer than 250 words and address for verification purposes. Submitted Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and of interest and importance in our communities. . Include daytime and evening phone numbers letters and columns become the property of publish them in any format, including online. Thursday, April 14, 2011 Eagan • Apple Valley • Rosemount Visit us online at minnlocal.com Page 6 A long journey, but reporter home at last BY MICHAEL RICCI • SUN NEWSPAPERS As of Monday, April 4, I began my new position as the Dakota County staff reporter for Sun Newspapers, and I have to say I could not be happier to be in the metro area doing what I enjoy doing - reporting and writing news, along with pho- tography, proofreading, editing and a host of other duties that come with being in print media. My journey in the media field began after earning an associate's degree in broadcast- ing from the former Brown Institute (quite a number of years ago) in Minneapolis. This led to covering a wide variety of news stories at radio stations in Devils Lake, N.D., Owatonna, and Hastings. As fun and challenging as broadcast news was for me dur- ing that time, it was the process of writing I found to be much more appealing and interest- ing. This prompted me to earn a bachelor's degree in commu- nications from Metropolitan State University. After two com- munications -related intern- ships, as well as an interim managing editor position for a statewide publication, I began working as a newspaper editor in Kenyon, Minn. A great pub- lisher (and mentor) allowed me to learn a great deal more about CORRECTION Several figures in our recent story about Dakota County cen- sus data were incorrect. Apple Valley has grown by less than 4,000 since 2000, Lakeville grew by more than 12,000 since 2000, and Rosemount's population actually reached 21,874 in 2010. The Sun -Current regrets the errors. the print media business and the so-called tricks of the trade. After three -and -a -half years, and coinciding with the paper being sold, my career brought me to St. James, Minn., a larger community where I learned even more about the challenges we sometimes face in this busi- ness - in short: be accurate and do not get sued (tongue firmly in cheek). This period spanned over 10 years, so to now finally be cov- ering my hometown of Burnsville and its neighboring south -of -the -river communities of Lakeville, Eagan, Apple Valley and Rosemount is a great feeling. Since the trend in this business is to go from smaller to larger markets, I feel fortunate to be home. Covering these communi- ties, and the news that inher- ently comes with larger towns, is another great opportunity to expand upon my experience under the tutelage of my man- aging editor and grow with the company for many years to come. My transitions did not always come with ease, howev- er, as my last position (in a com- pletely unrelated field) had me working second and third shifts, as well as 12-hour shifts from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. since September. Truth be told, any job that allows one to support himself, especially in a down economy, can be called a good one. I am simply thankful to be sleeping at night and waking up with the sun, as opposed to spending the majority of my daylight hours hiding out in what felt like a cave with blan- kets over windows to block out the sun. I'm sorry, but that is just not normal - at least for this sun worshiper. Now that all is relatively normal, I look forward to not only use my knowledge and experience to continue provid- ing the necessary coverage that Sun Newspapers has been pub- lishing for years but also to embrace the future of print media and the technology that comes with it. I like to think I'm not ill equipped for these upcoming (sooner or later) these techno- logical challenges. Two years working as an audio-visual technician is experience that will pay off, this coupled with my own personal interest in computers and related technol- ogy Modern technology can be your best friend or your worst enemy at times. For example, given my past experience and what I like to think of as an aptitude for electronic technol- ogy, I still only know how to make and receive calls on my cell phone basically. I can save numbers and names, but that is about it. I need to consult my niece and nephew on such mat- ters frequently. But the greatest chal- lenges in this business aren't necessarily challenges as opposed to opportunities to learn. After all, it is a reporter's job to first learn the subject well enough to communicate it in words for the average person (includ- ing reporters mostly). This is fundamental to journalism and the one aspect that pro- vides what is probably the highest reward. In other words, what does a man who was raised in a sub- urban/metro area know about competitive horse pulling or long haul trucking? I learned much more than I ever expect- ed to about these subjects. Realizing that covering the communities I will be, I do not expect to run into those sto- ries specifically, but I do anticipate encountering many new subjects to learn and report. And as long as I can inform our readers and from time to time educate and entertain them about members of their communities who may be involved in newsworthy endeavors, that makes it all worth it and enjoyable. Share your views with our readers The Sun -Current welcomes comments from its read- ers. Letters to the editor should not exceed 250 words. Short letters are the most likely to be read. All letters to the editor must bear the author's signa- ture and complete address. Telephone numbers (home and office) where the writer can be reached during busi- ness and evening hours must be included for verification purposes. We will not publish any letter where a signature has not been verified. All submissions must be received no later than 5 p.m. Thursday for possible publication the following Thursday. The newspaper reserves the right to edit all submis- sions and to reject any letters or columns that contain libelous or offensive material. Please write to: Sun -Current, 33 Second St. N.E., Box 280, Osseo, MN 55369. You also may fax your information to us at 763-424-73885. You may e-mail us at suncur- rentsouth@ acnpapers.com. Please do not forward attach- ments with your emails. For more information, call us at 952- 829-0797. Eagan • Apple Valley • Rosemount URRENT In the Community. With the Community. For the Community Circulation: 952-392-6860 For business advertising: 952-392-6894 • advertise@acnpapers.com To place a classified ad: 952-392-6888 Send news items or letters to the editor to: Sun -Current 33 Second St. NE P.O. Box 280 Osseo, MN, 55369 Phone:763-424-7380 Fax: 763-424-7388 ipalmersheim@acnpapers.com Joseph Palmersheim, Managing Editor jpalmersheim@acnpapers.com 763-424-7380 Jennie Olson, Community Editor jolson@acnpapers.com 763-424-7392 Mike Shaughnessy, Sports Editor mshaughnessy@acnpapers.com 763-424-7383 Jason Walker, Design Editor jwalker@acnpapers.com 763-424-7386 Peggy Bakken, Executive Editor pbakken@acnpapers.com 763-424-7373 Bill Ehlert, Account Executive behlert@acnpapers.com 952-392-6852 Beau Siegel, Account Executive bsiegel@acnpape rs.co m 952-392-6840 Jeremy Bradfield, Interim Ad Director jbradfield@acnpapers.com 952-392-6894 Dennis Thomsen, National Accounts Manager dthomsen@acnpapers.com 952-392-6878 Pam Miller, Classified Manager pmiller@acnpapers.com 952-392-6862 Krista Jech, Marketing Manager kjech@acnpapers.com 952-392-6835 Sylvia Fitzsimmons, Circulation Manager sfitzs i mmons@acnpape rs.com 763-424-7370 Jeff Coolman, Group Publisher jcoolman@acnpapers.com 952-392-6807 For legal advertisements and obituaries, contact: sunlegals@acnpapers.com sunobits@acnpapers.com 952-392-6829 For weddings, engagements, anniversaries, sports team photos and births, contact: 952-392-6875 Sun Newspapers offices are open weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. © 2011, Published Weekly by SUN NEWSPAPERS 10917 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 952-829-0797 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com-Thursday, April 14, 2011 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 5 SPORTS THEAT FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Highway 149 and Highway 55. Chapdelaine's son also has five boys who are all in the area. "When I was very young we just had two paved roads: Jefferson Highway, which is now Highway 149, and Highway 13," Chapdelaine said. "Highway 55 came up into Eagan, but it stopped at Jefferson Highway." Chapdelaine added that Yankee Doodle Road was only a narrow cut in between the hills, and it was so narrow that two trucks could hardly be on there at the same time. "There was no draining or water management, so it was usually quite impassable in the spring," Chapdelaine said. "I remember us going over to my aunt's who lived on Yankee Doodle between Pilot Knob and Highway 13, and we couldn't return home on Yankee Doodle Road. and that was not uncom- mon." For Chapdelaine, growing up in Eagan 80 years ago was a simpler time. "I didn't learn to ride a bicycle until I was 13 or 14 because we just rode hors- es," he said. "We weren't going to ride a bike on a poor gravel road." When Eagan was a township in the late 1960s, the town board began plan- ning for development because they felt that Eagan was going to blossom, Chapdelaine said. The restriction came because the only ways to get to Eagan were by the Mendota Bridge or Highway 110, but once Interstate 35 and Interstate 494 were built in the 1980s, Eagan grew very rapidly. "We built here with the idea that we were probably going to move, but when that decision came when we needed more space, we just enlarged the house," Chapdelaine said. "The more we looked at it, we said, 'Why do we want to move to another community when this one is being very well managed?' I like the idea of having shopping centers and services available throughout the city rather than concentrating in a downtown area. Many people don't know it, but Eagan is larger geographically in size than St. Paul, so it's a very large community" "There are many families who have been here since the 1850s and their line- age has remained," Foote said. "Whether you're a part of one of those families or a high schooler with interest in history and learning more about the place you live, I think this is a great way to do that." For more information about the Eagan Historical Society, visit cityofea- gan.com. �.rvss xf FR'* Check out our NEW MENU featuring homemade FRESH- PIlla BAKED *PLUS get a look at our NEW REMODEL! r 1 1/2 OFF anyBURGER or PIZZA' Bring this coupon toe Senser's-Eagan and get 1/2 off any DELICIOUS BURGER or FRESH -BAKED PIZZA! ILimit one per table per visit - Not valid during Happy Hour - Dine in only - Expires 5/5/2011 L mmi sine Ems 11 3010 Eagandale Place • Eagan, MN 55121 • 651-687-9333 • www.sensers.com a The historical marker at the Eagan Historical Society's 1914 Town Hall Museum talks about the building and how it was used. (Submitted photo) ThreeRivers PARK DISTRICT Join the egg hunts, meet the bunny and friends, play games and more... ► Silverwood Park, St Anthony April 16.. 1-4 p rn. ► Kroening Interpretive Center, Minneapolis April 16, noon-3 p.m ► Eastman Nature Center, Dayton April 22. 70 a m. --2 p m. ► Lowry Nature Center, Victoria April 22-23, 70 a m -3 p.m ► Richardson Nature Center, Bloomington April 22 - 23, 9:30 a m. - 12: 30 p.m. ► The Landing, Shakopee April 23, noon-3 p.m. Reservations Required ThreeRiversParks.org • 763.559.6700 CSM to buy Lockheed site Minneapolis -based developer sees possible mixed -use project with stores, restaurants, offices, data center by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A Minneapolis -based de- veloper announced it will buy the Lockheed Martin facility in Eagan for potential use as a large-scale retail, restaurant and office development. CSM Equities LLC, an affili- ate of CSM Corporation, said the sale of the 51-acre property is ex- pected to close this summer. "We are excited about the op- portunity to acquire this facility," said Tom Palmquist, vice presi- dent of commercial development for CSM. Lockheed Martin will continue to occupy the space under a lease agreement until it officially closes in the spring of 2013. The site is at a prime loca- tion — the intersection of Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle roads — which is Eagan's busiest inter- section and also near its major existing retail centers, Town Cen- tre and Promenade. CSM said the developer envi- sioned a larger, mixed -use devel- opment on the site, nothing is set in stone at this point, said spokes- person Joel Carver. "I would say we have a num- ber of ideas, but prior to meeting with the city we can't really say what those are," he said. "We are looking to the city of Eagan as a true partner in this." The property has long been zoned for research and develop- ment, said City Administrator Tom Hedges, so any use outside of that would require the city to approve a zoning change. CSM is also considering re- taining portions of the site's 623,000 square -foot building for a potential data center. The city is currently looking to bring a large data center/coloca- tion facility to Eagan, and in fact just approved a feasibility study to determine how and where such a hub can be built. But it hasn't yet had any discussions with Wide a statement re eased by CMS about a data center, Hedges "� , GAL` t 1/j r/1. said. City officials hope to meet with CSM representatives over the next several weeks. "We're looking forward to meeting with them to see what their ideas for the area would be, and from there we can assess the impact," said Eagan's Commu- nity Development Director Jon Hohenstein. CSM said it will submit appli- cations to the city later this sum- mer once concept plans for the project are more complete. Lockheed Martin announced in November it will close its Eagan facility by 2013, result- ing in about 250 layoffs and 750 job transfers to other facilities throughout the country, includ- ing facilities in Owego, N.Y., Manassas, Va., and San Diego. The move is expected to save the company $150 million over the next 10 years. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ ecm-inc. com. w 1 4.9000 , with any other 1 s5/30/11. J El� ck-up tput and nt Inspection. , aloe 1 4-9000 , may be required 1 ires 5/30/11. J Outstanding ervice, great ces. My vehicle fixed correctly nd on time." -Robert Bingham er Grove Heights HOURS lion. The city will receive a Local Government Innova- tion Award from the Hum- phrey School's Public and Nonprofit Leadership Cen- ter (PNLC) at a ceremony April 13. Eagan originally set a goal to collect 150,000 pounds of food in 2010 to celebrate its sesquicenten- nial. When it easily reached that goal early in the year, it revised its goal to collect 300,000 pounds of food. At the end of the year, the city had collected 379,523 pounds of food for the food shelves at the Eagan Resource Center and 360 Communities. "I'm so proud that this community was able to hon- ducation plish by working together." At least 110 businesses, churches and community groups participated, and many more individuals joined in at civic events. This is the second time in as many years that the city has won a Local Govern- ment Innovation Award. Last year it was honored for its cable TV partnership with Thomson Reuters. "Eagan is pleased to re- ceive an innovation award for the second straight year," said Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire. "Even more so because this one honors the giving nature of our citi- zens and businesses." The city will be honored at an awards ceremony from 3 to 5 p.m. on April 13 at and public sector organiza- tions to work together — and with the private sector — to advance the common good and serve the public interest. This year's awards fo- cused on service redesign. Winners were selected for innovative work that inte- grated redesign strategies, such as creating greater ac- countability; using incen- tives, charges, and targeting; funding consumers; and other innovative strategies. For more informa- tion, visit: www.hhh.umn. edu/features/LGIA_Win- ner_2011_CityofEagan. html. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Longtime principal retires Karen Toomey of Westview Elementary in Apple Valley says farewell after 20 years in district by Jessica Harper THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS 1 1 Apple Valley -Eagan School District. "1. ._ 1 -. 'AL who is a retired MnDOT account- Photos by MARLIN LEVISON • mlevison@startribune LEARNING TO MAKE TOUGH DECISIONS: Jennifer Kriceri-Berger, left, and Jane Gohar used laser video guns to shoot suspects in an interac- tive video used by police as a training device. In the center is program coordinator patrol Sgt. Dan Mason. Eagan police hope citizens who take their eight -week course will better understand their high-pressure jobs. John Q. Public meets John Q. Law • Two dozen Eagan residents ages 18 to 80 are wrapping up an eight -week class where they have learned about police work during the city's annual citizens academy. By ANDREA SCHUG andrea.schug@startribune.com Jim and Carol Hansen stood before a projection screen armed with laser guns, waiting for a lifelike scenario to play out before them: Should they shoot? They had no clue what type of situation would be thrown their way. "I want you to take this as what we do on the street," Eagan police Sgt. Dan Ma- son told the couple. "I'm not telling you what's happening here. You guys gotta be in charge." They were using the Fire Arms Train- ing System (FATS) during a session of the city's citizens police academy, in which a handful of residents spend eight weeks learning about police work behind the scenes. The rest of the class watched their peers decide whether to shoot in situations with potentially dangerous suspects: Pulling Police continues on AA5 ► Police officers Tony Lejcher, bottom, and Tony Sundgaard demonstrated self-defense techniques to a group of Eagan residents who learned what it's like to be a cop. « YOU DON'T INVITE THE POLICE OVER FOR BIRTHDAY CAKE. YOU ONLY SEE US IN HIGH - EXCITEMENT SITUATIONS. » Patrol Sgt. Dan Mason ti v t4 P n tl G e event, a Av., starts at ll:30 a.m. and nsored by Dakota Coun- ellow Ribbon network. VP by Sunday at farmingtonw2c.org or 12-203-0863. N e to order your s at annual sale ;an residents have until y to reserve a tree in the annual tree sale. varieties are available ear: Prairiefire crabapple whitespire birch ($25), for oak ($25), new hori- lm ($25), sugar "Fall Fies- aple ($30), and shademas- >neylocust ($25). ees will be available at the maintenance facility, 3501 hman Point, on April 30. ees must be ordered in ad - Residents can purchase r isd194.k12.mn.us. ninations sought annual awards le Lakeville School Dis- is seeking nominations s annual Friends of Edu- n Awards. yards are given to dis- employees or community ,bers in these categories: nteer service, business ierships, distinguished ce, the arts and educa- Any staff or communi- ember can make a nomi- in. Nomination forms are able in the office of every ville public school, as well It www isd194.k12.mn.us. r're due by May 16. IT ST. PAUL-MENDOTA HTS-EAGAN Ird approves lget cuts, levy he West St. Paul -Mendota Ihts-Eagan school board ipproved plans to cover a acted deficit of $1.4 million 0ll-12. udget cuts approved last k include changes at ele- Itary and middle schools will eliminate the equiv- at City Hall, 3830 Pilot Knob Road. Paper application forms must be returned no later than 4 p.m. on Friday. Order online at www.startribune.com/a298. Payment must be made at the time of pickup — do not mail your payment. Free or- ganic mulch also will be avail- able at the pickup site. Bring your own container. ROSEMOUNT Tree City USA plans its Arbor Day observance Once again, Rosemount has been named as a Tree City USA. It is planning to celebrate Arbor Day on April 30. The Tree City award is giv- en to cities that have active programs to promote the pro- tection of natural habitats and trees. It's the 19th time that Rosemount has been honored. He said he and a consu tant for Travacomp Interna- tional will walk four sites this week. The sites are on city land by Lakeville South High School and at Casperson and East Community parks, as well as land at Kenwood Middle School owned by the school district. He said the biggest expense would be course equipment, which a local businessman has offered to donate. Volunteers would be sought to clear and help build the course, he said. "This sport is sweeping the country," Michaud said. "Maintenance is minimal. They don't cost a lot to build. It is an inexpensive, recreational, healthy sport activity." KATIE HUMPHREY, JIM ADAMS, DYLAN BELDEN and NICOLE NORFLEET Southern Dakota County • Jim Adams 952-707-9996 jadams@startribune.com South prep sports Reporter • Brian Stensaas 612-673-4127 bstensaas@startribune.com CORRECTIONS The Star Tribune is committed to correcting errors that appear in the newspaper or online. Concerns about accuracy can be directed to corrections@startribune.com. You may also call 612-673-4414, week- days between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and ask to be connected to the appropriate department. please make your submissions by e-mail to opinion@startribune. com. Our conventional mail ad- dress is Star Tribune South, 425 Portland Av., Minneapolis, MN 55488. Our fax number is 612-673- 4359. Submissions must be exclu- sive to us in Minnesota. All must in- clude the writer's name, address, occupation and telephone num- bers (work and home). Letters and guest columns become the proper- ty of the Star Tribune and may be republished in any format. Because of the volume of mail, we may not print everything we receive and we cannot return manuscripts or oth- er material. SHARE YOUR PHOTOS If your organization has a special occasion or event to share, send us a photo and write a short caption. You can e-mail photos to dylan.belden@startribune.com. If you would like to upload your photo to our website to share with other readers, go to the "Multimedia" menu on any page at www.startribune.com. Select "Your Photos" and follow the directions. police blotter alent of 14 employees. The board increased class sizes at Henry Sibley High School, cut- ting 3.5 positions, but backed away from an earlier proposal to switch the high school from a seven -period class schedule to a six -period day. The budget plans do not in- clude a controversial propos- al that would have moved stu- dents at Mendota Elementary to Friendly Hills Middle School this fall. District leaders hope to make an extra $100,000 next year from advertising. They're exploring the possibility of selling ads on school websites, as well as wrapping some lock- ers in vinyl ads, said district spokeswoman Susan Brott. The board expects revenue of about $47 million in the dis- trict's general fund next year. In addition to covering the deficit, board members set aside $500,000 in "innovation" funding for schools to roll out long-term cost-cutting ideas. They also passed a resolu- tion to hold a levy referendum this fall, though they have not yet decided whether voters should be asked to increase or merely renew local taxes for schools. SARAH LEMAGIE BELLE PLAINE APRIL 2 Theft. The theft of prescription medica- tion was reported in the 26400 block of Laredo Avenue. BURNSVILLE MARCH 23 Prostitution. A 24-year-old St. Paul wom- an, a 45-year-old Apple Valley wom- an and a 23-year-old Plymouth woman were arrested for soliciting prostitution in the 14300 block of Nicollet Court. MARCH 31 Drug activity. A 49-year-old Minneapolis man was arrested for drug possession in the 12800 block of W. Frontage Road. ELKO NEW MARKET APRIL 2 Property damage. Vandalism was report- ed in the 9300 block of Cambridge Lane. HASTINGS APRIL 6 Drug activity. A 20-year-old Apple Valley man was arrested in Hastings for selling 10 grams or more of narcotics. JORDAN MARCH 29 Burglary. A business in the 200 block of S. Broadway Street reported a burglary. The stolen property was located at sev- eral pawn shops and placed on confis- cation holds. A suspect was identified and charges are pending. PRIOR LAKE MARCH 31 Burglary. A burglary was reported in the 19600 block of Foxfield Drive. Theft. The rear windows were smashed out of two vehicles parked at the YMCA, 3575 NW. North Berens Road. Items tak- en included jackets, a video camera, a tote and school art supplies. APRIL 1 Suspicious activity. A World War II -era Army Jeep with a gun mounted on it was spotted in the 2800 block of NW. Wilds Lane. Police were unable to lo- cate the vehicle. APRIL 2 Vehicle accident A 19-year-old Norwood Young America woman was rescued af- ter suffering a seizure while driving and winding up in a pond. A passen- ger and passerby were able to get her out of the car. APRIL 4 Burglary. A drill, a phone charger, a ca- ble and personal items were report- ed stolen in the 16400 block of NW. Sage Way. APRIL 5 Drug activity. A 31-year-old Brooklyn Park man was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and on an out- standing Roseau County warrant, a 44- year-old Brooklyn Park man was ar- rested for an outstanding Washington County warrant, a 58-year-old Buffa- lo man was arrested for possession of prescription drugs, and a 41-year-old Apple Valley man was arrested for pos- session of ecstasy at Mystic Lake Casi- no, 2400 NW. Mystic Lake Blvd. SAVAGE MARCH 31 Theft. A window was broken and a lap- top computer stolen from a vehicle parked at Interiors Interface Inc., 8665 W. 125th Street. Property damage. A resident of the 5000 block of Credit River Drive report- ed damage to her basketball hoop. APRIL 2 Property damage. A fence and a mail- box were vandalized in the 4100 block of W. 131st Street. SHAKOPEE APRIL 2 Drunkenness. A 22-year-old Shakopee man was arrested for DWI and failure to yield to emergency vehicles. SOUTH ST. PAUL APRIL 1 Theft. A bicycle and GPS were stolen from a garage in the 1300 block of El- dridge Avenue. APRIL 4 Illegal dumping. A resident of the 300 block of 2nd Avenue reported that someone had been discarding personal items into his Dumpster without permission. WEST ST. PAUL APRIL 1 Animal complaint. Police chased a muskrat from the entrance of RC Dick's, 374 W. Bernard St., after receiving a re- port that the muskrat looked like it was going to enter the building. Disturbance. An argument broke out among customers at the Perkins restau- rant at 1365 S. Robert St. as they tried to decide who was paying the bill. APRIL 2 Theft An iPod was stolen from a car outside Holiday Acre Apartments, 1762 Oakdale Av. Indecent exposure. An employee at Wal- Mart, 1644 S. Robert St., reported being flashed by a customer wearing only a grey robe. APRIL 3 Robbery. A man wearing a mask report- edly attempted to rob Little Caesars Pizza, 1115 S. Robert St. Items are selected from reports made to police departments and are not in- tended to provide a comprehensive pic- ture of crime. re the power HING to save energy and money. nergy costs, Dakota Electric offers rebates on nd CFLs, and reminds us to turn off the lights and on our energy bill — and so do you. EQUIPMENT SOLUTIONS X300 Select Series'" DIODR 0110 D130 JUMP INTO DEERE SEASON THIS SPRING AND SAVE! D Series Lawn Tractors DESCRIPTION SALE PRICE MODEL DESCRIPTION SALE PRICE 19.5 Hp, Two Pedal. Hydro Drive, 42" Mower 51.699 D140 22 HP V-Twin, Two Pedal, Hydro Drive, 48" Mower $1,999 22 HP, V-Twin, Two Pedal, Hydro Drive, 42" Mower $1,899 D160 24 HP V-Twin, Two Pedal, Hydro Dive, 48" Mower $2,549 ;. John Deere quality combined with affordability gives you a great tractor value. Backed by a dealer with the experience and knowledge to match you with the right tractor and keep it running safely and reliable for years to come.; X700 Select Series'" (SO) WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13, 2011 • STAR TRIBUNE • SOUTH EXTRA • AA5 Average Joe meets John Q. Law The citizens academy attracts the old and the young. Laveme McLaughlin got a taste of police work by aiming a laser video gun at a screen in a interactive video training device. 1 POLICE FROM AA1 over an angry armed driver, walking into an office where a hostage was being held, or in- teracting with an armed stu- dent during a school shooting. "You get kind of nervous sitting here waiting for your turn," participant Robert Har- rell whispered, eyes locked on the screen. The FATS exercise was just one type of training that the class of 27 citizens academy students has undergone dur- ing the program. "It's an opportunity for res- idents to actually get into the police department and meet the people who are actually working the city," said Jill On- drey, crime prevention spe- cialist and program coordina- tor. "These [police] are normal people with normal jobs." One of the benefits of the program is for citizens to in- teract with officers in a stress - free environment. "You don't invite the police over for birthday cake," Mason joked. "You only see us in high - excitement situations." The Hansens are a case in point. "We've lived here in Eagan for 30 years now and have had no interaction with the police," Carol Hansen said. "It's been a real learning ex- perience to see how nice all of the police actually are because you normally only come in- to contact with them when something is wrong," Jim Hansen said. In this comfortable envi- ronment, the students get to see the human side of the of- ficers, which has helped them overcome negative stereotypes about police. "You can easily become so cynical of the police but in the [squad] cars they're talk- ing about their wife, their fam- ily, their kids," Harrell said. "They're normal people, too." The academy also allows the police department to get feed- back from the community on how to improve its services. Ondrey said this year's group has been particular- ly helpful because of its wide variety of ages, ranging from an 18-year-old to a woman in her 80s. "We get people from all walks of life, which is nice be- cause you get people's ideas and perspectives on how they view the world and how they view the police department," Ondrey said. "This is a good group of cit- izens who are very interested in what we're doing and aren't afraid to ask questions," officer Danielle Anselment said. The citizens academy has met every Thursday evening since the beginning of March. Each week, the academy has discussed a different topic. There was a drunken -driv- ing demonstration, a self-de- fense course and a K-9 demon- stration. The participants also have done a ride -along with an officer. On Thursday, the city's 16th class of citizens academy par- ticipants will graduate during their final session at the police department. "In the first week everyone is quiet and shy," An- selment said. 'And by the end, they're all talking more, inter- acting more and making those connections. By the end of the eight weeks, these people are police supporters." Andrea Schug is a U of M student on as- signment for the Star Tribune. Photos by MARLIN LEVISON • mlevison@startribune. Eagan patrol Sgt. Dan Mason explained the techniques of proper use of firearms. During the eight -week course, the residents learned about behind -the -scenes police work. Eric Drenckhahn, left, and Lily Hamann had the opportunity to learn how police make decisions in high-pressure and violent situations. (( THIS IS A GOOD GROUP OF CITIZENS WHO ARE VERY INTERESTED IN WHAT WE'RE DOING AND AREN'T AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS.» 'elle Anselment Eagan .olice officer AA6 • SOUTH EXTRA • STAR TRIBUNE • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13, 2011 (SO) West -metro students reach out to help Japan From first -graders to se- nior high students, west -metro schools are helping aid the re- covery in Japan after the coun- try's devastating earthquake and tsunami last month. At Glen Lake Elementary in Hopkins, students collect- ed about $1,500 in two days for the American Red Cross. The efforts were organized by first - grade classes, which are study- ing Japan for two months. Nearby Meadowbrook Ele- mentary is collecting money through Friday with the goal of raising $1,200 for the Amer- ican Red Cross. At Maple Grove High School, sophomore Juhyun Kwon started a fundraiser three weeks ago by selling T- shirts to classmates with the hopes of raising $500 for the American Red Cross. At last count, the 16-year-old had sold 150 T-shirts to students for $10; $3 goes to the Red Cross. Kwon, of Korean descent, Mu— RICHARD SENNOTT • Richard.Sennott@startribune.com Second -graders at Blake School in Hopkins are folding origami cranes, with the goal of making 1,000 cranes. said she was moved to help the Japanese people after watch- ing the devastation unfold on TV. She organized fundraising efforts on a "Help Japan" Face - book group and will continue to raise money through T-shirt sales. At Blake School in Hopkins, second -graders are crafting origami cranes with the goal Proposed gravel pit gets further review GRAVEL PIT FROM AA1 nation of the groundwater and flooding at Sand Creek, considered one of the most polluted waterways in Min- nesota. "I'm pleased that the Scott County Board has chosen to require the environmen- tal impact statement," said Jordan City Council Mem- ber Thom Boncher. "I think it's a good thing that they're willing to acknowledge that problems exist, and more in- formation is needed before taking further action." Scott County officials said this is only the third time in the past 25 years or more that the board has asked for an environmental impact study of this t s e. Lisa Kohner, the county spokeswoman, said the other occasions involved the con- struction of the Bloomington Ferry Bridge in the 1990s and a proposed amphitheater that was never built. The EIS, which could cost about $75,000, could take as long as nine months to com- plete. Once that is done, the county and the developer would negotiate over any conditions the county might attach to a permit. Steve Hentges, who is de- veloping the proposed grav- el pit, did not return a phone call seeking comment. County Commission- er Joe Wagner, whose dis- trict includes Jordan, said he thought worries about water of reaching 1,000 cranes. Ac- cording to Japanese legend, creating the 1,000 cranes al- lows a wish for good health to be granted. The private school's lower campus is also collecting money for UNICEF, which will go toward helping kids in Japan and rebuilding schools. KELLY SMITH Board's biggest concern. Wagner said the board months ago was probably leaning toward approving a permit for the gravel pit without an EIS. But the con- cerns raised about the possi- ble groundwater contamina- tion prevailed. "Air quality is one thing," Wagner said, "but water is a different thing. When you can have some [possible] groundwater contamination, you have to look at that." He said another big con- cern was the almost -annual flooding at Sand Creek and the possibility that it could seep into the mine pond and result in contamination of the area's water table. "That is one of the sad things about Sand Creek. It is a contaminated creek," said Wagner, who abstained from voting on the EIS be- cause he has property abut- ting the proposed pit. gustana Regent Choices for'Senio Keeping you active and engaged i . ate optio Assisted Lining •Adult Day Care • Care Suites Transitional Care • Memory Care Three convenient locations: mtlaitatootioalefirAwomiNffiv Apple Valley Villa g= Ytit!■ COSSMLSdrY .�,g{s�;?;iRe Ns4iiHiH3Bi£ii5t«+:R Independent Apartments Catered Living Options Adult Day Center Memory Care 952-236-2600 www.applevalleyvilla.com 14610 Garrett Ave., Apple Valley Independent Living Assisted Living Care Suites 952-898-1910 www.augustanaregent.com 14500 Regent Lane, Burnsville EMERALD CREST The Assisted Living Memory Care Specialists 952-908-2215 www.emeraldcrest.com 451 L. Travelers Trail Burnsville www.augustanacare.org 2. 4) 7. / s Work to begin on final leg of Eigans'ring road' Work on overpass connecting Duckwood and Federal drives across I-35E will start next month by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Eagan City Coun- cil awarded a construc- tion contract at its April 5 meeting for the final phase of the city's long-awaited "ring roa" project. Planned for more than 16 years, the ring road aims to ease congestion around Eagan's busiest in- tersection: Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob roads. The ring road will con- nect - -existing- streets to form a loop around the Yankee Doodle/Pilot Knob/35E intersections, providing local traffic with alternative routes. The final phase of the project will connect Duckwood Drive with Federal Drive across I- 35E. The connection will be made with a simple over- pass and will not include any additional ramps to and from I-35E. Improvements will also be made to the Pilot Knob/Duckwood Drive intersection, as well as the right turn lane on north- bound Pilot Knob at I- 35E. A walking trail will be added to both sides of Duckwood Drive. Businesses on Duckwood Drive will be accessible throughout construction, and traffic will remain open on Fed- eral Drive, said Tim Plath, Eagan transportation en- gineer. The first phase of the project, completed in 2008, extended North- wood Parkway — located next to Home Depot — across 35E to connect with Central Parkway, located next to the Community Center. The Northwood Over- pass now sees more than 5,800 vehicles each day, according to the city. As with the Northwood Overpass, the city looked to keep construction costs down on this project by moving forward during a sluggish economy and fa- vorable bidding climate. "Based on other bids we're seeing going out right now, it is a competi- tive bidding environment, and we gained by con- structing right now," Plath said. Construction is esti- mated to cost about $4.5 million. The overpass is expected to be completed by the end of November. YANKEE DOODLE\ ROAD FEDERAL DR Project Location Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. DEERWOOD KNOB ROAD DRIVE ~O a The final phase of Eagan's ring road will connect Duckwood Drive and Federal Drive with an overpass stretching across I-35E, similar to the Northwood Overpass completed in 2008. Submitted graph it Interviews Tuesday, April 19 from 10am-7pm „e•z,,.A,F small picnic shelter, rest - rooms, a drinking fountain and maintenance storage space. The current gravel park- ing lot and entrance will Blair said — is key to the suc- cess of the project. "We want to make sure we're checking in with the predominant users in the mountain biking commu- ons ruc to begin in late August. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisrveek@ecm-inc. cont south meir Bass Fis ing Seminar Glenn Walker Basks Lakeville • MN CHEV • DODGE • KIA 0% II With Bass Tournament Angler AS LOW AS 1.9% APR GM Homelowo oea er Saturday, Api1igth, 2011 8:00am to 11:00am FREE New Gifts Giveaway Discount Coupons Towards A Vehicle Purchase Fishing Lures Giveaway FREE Hot Dogs, Chips, & Pop Trniry (AIINTDY 25 SILVERADOS TO CHOOSE Ld d et e st ip n 0 of 1 al empl et wood' nd In ng tools 17 , price is ers c boxe perso Cl lengt' and mow fered and Estate/6A T com pro as p ing said al, t Hu me pro ho tin 10 san ent de Actor's path to the silver screen began on an Apple Valley stage. See Thisweekend Page lA. ail Classifieds/8A Public Notices/ 12A ws 7N ,Ts Photo by Erin Johnson an Fire Chief Mike Scott stands in the facility's training area, which allows firefighters avigate smoke -filled rooms to rescue victims and includes a stairwell that drains water ose training. For a photo slideshow, visit www.thisweeklive.com. ew Fire Safe Center is nultiuse, g taciHtv State-of-the-art building will replace two fire stations, improve response times by Erin Jobnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott said he's gotten a lot of compliments on how nice the city's new Fire Safety Center looks from the out- side. "But what really excites us is what's on the inside," he said. Also known as Fire Sta- tion No. 1 the new $8.1 million building replaces two existing fire stations and will serve a multitude of purposes for both the fire and police departments. And it's eco-friendly: The facility is the first fire station in the country to be certified by Green Globes, an internationally recog- nized certification process aimed at reducing a build- ing's overall environmental impact. "We knew we wanted to llt�l STATION ,: 0 Photo by Erin Johnson Located on the former Carriage Hills golf course at the corner of Yankee Doodle Road and Wescott Woodlands, the new Fire Safety Center is now open for business. build a very green facility," Scott said. An emphasis was put on green elements that were low la,intenance and would pay Inc, city back, such as geother-nal heating and cooling, which will pay for itself in less than seven years, he said. Other green features in- clude energy -efficient LED lighting, cement floors and walls made of recycled ash trees cut down to prevent the emerald ash borer. But perhaps most im- See Center, 11A 2A June 24, 2011 THISWEEK Shop/from 1A But Watts is also an en- trepreneur with an eye for lightly trod market niches. He's a trucker by trade, retired after 33 years in po- sitions from driver to vice president of operations. In 2004, he and his son launched Maui Shower, a Burnsville company that hauled rent -a -shower stalls on semis to events such as car races and concerts. They closed the business last year. "We're just actually very selfish guys," Sam joked. "Everything we do is some- thing we want. If I go to a NASCAR event, I want a shower." At North Country, which opened June 13, the Wattses are again betting on an idea. "We actually hired peo- ple to search the Inter and call people and out if there was anyth like this in the count Tim said. "We decided t might be a good busines North Country is spr out over 10,000 square f in a building west of Pepsi bottling plant on E Cliff Road. Members fees range from $50 for eight -hour daily fee to $2 a month for professio Shutdown/from 1 A by the shutdown, Smith to determine which servic said. among those not specifi county. "It's a moving target," he by the state are essenti It is unclear which spe- said. Those deemed nonessenti cific services will be affected County officials will need will be temporarily cut o Eagan Market Fest Wednesday, June 29th 4-8 pm Bike to the Eagan Market Fest in June and receive a FREE gift. (while supplies last) Eagan Festival Grounds. 1501 Central Parkway www.cityofeagan.com/marketfest 651-675-5500 Award -winning 17-week event featuring a farmer's market with produce, specialty foods, artists, music, kid's art tent & more! At The Eagan Market Fest This Week: Redpath 4 - 8 p.m. Local Farm Fresh Items Currently Available at Market Fest: Asparagus Lettuce Spinach Radishes Snap Peas Strawberries Onions Herbs Flowers and morel 2011 Event Partners: Eagan Parks & Recreation, City & County Credit Union. Thisweek Newspapers, Thisweek Live, Dakota County Tribune and Rasmussen College ( LA .' Center/from lA portant, the new facility will improve emergency response times in the area of Eagan that receives the most fire calls. The original Fire Station No. 2 had the poorest re- sponse times in the city, av- eraging 12 minutes per call, versus six minutes by other stations. Locating the new sta- tion in an area where more volunteer firefighters live will vastly improve response times, Scott said. "That's what really, to us, is the wow factor," he said. Also helping response times are six volunteer fire- fighters who live rent-free in a dorm area on size. They and other firefight- ers will keep skills sharp in a new training area that allows for ladder, roof and window rescues, search -and -rescue training in a smoke -filled room, and hose training in a stairwell that allows water to drain. Police can also use the facility to conduct tactical training in close quarters. "The reason it's called a fire safety center is we tried to build in as many public safety elements as possible," Scott said. "We worked closely with the Police De- partment to address their needs." Police had run out of evi- dence space at their facility, so the Fire Safety Center includes six garage bays for long-term storage of forfei- ture vehicles, an evidence room, a found -bike storage area and an office. The Emergency Opera- tions Center has also moved from the Police Department; the new building has a large meeting room/classroom and a private meeting room for city officials. The city's emergency command vehicle will be stored in one of the many large garage bays in the facility, along with Heal- thEast ambulance services. The Fire Safety Center may be brand new, but it in- cludes a lot of history. The department's first fire truck, named Jenny, has been fully restored and is displayed behind glass next to a replica of an original police squad car. The city's time capsule, to be opened in 2060, is stored in the same room. Hallways throughout the facility are lined with photos of fires battled throughout the city's history, and a wall in the lower lobby displays a photographic timeline of the department. Original uniforms are on display, along with other department memorabilia. The new building was 25 years in the making, officials said. It replaces the original Fire Station No. 2, as well as the Fire Administration Building, which housed Fire Station No. 6. The project will be paid for by the sale of the two buildings and in- ternal financing. The city already has a preliminary purchase agree- ment for Fire Station No. 2, and is currently leasing the administration building un- til a buyer is found. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Top Dog/from lA Eagan Police Department will vote for the winner. The purpose of the con- test is to help promote dog licensing. "We encourage people to license their dogs because a license helps us get their dog home 24/7," Grimm said. "If they're not licensed, they can end up at the kennel if we can't figure out who their owner is." Last year, nearly 150 dogs ended up at the kennel, while 35 were delivered home safe- ly by police because they had licenses, she said. Dogs older than six months are required to be li- censed in the city of Eagan, yet the city estimates only 25 percent of the city's dogs are licensed. "We'd like to see that in- crease," she said. "We'd like to take a lot fewer dogs to the kennel and take a lot more dogs home." Licensing saves both owners and the police de- partment money, she said. Licenses cost $20 and are good for two years, while failure to license a dog could result in a fine of $90. If a dog is taken to a ken- nel, owners must pay $40 to get their dogs out, and the city has to pay a fee to house lost dogs. "Twenty dollars is a fairly good price for a taxi ride home, compared to bail," she said. While the Top Dog win- ner will be featured on bro- chures and posters, all en- trants may be used in city publications and on its web - site. Contest entrants must be licensed. Applications for licenses are available online along with contest rules at www.cityofeagan.com. Click on the "Safety and Regula- tions" tab and choose "Ani- mals and Pets." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. and Gifted and Talented positions, that because of the skills needed for required subject matter and curricular expertise, these positions must be filled by a con- tinuing contract teacher as outlined in the Agreement. This Agreement sunsets when the 2011-13 Master Agreement is signed (Exhibit C5); A resolution to expel a student immedi- ately, through the second trimester of the 2011-12 school year, continuing through and including March 8, 2012 (Exhibit D1); An agreement with Community Involve- ment Programs to provide personal care attendant services for continuity of care between home and school from Septem- ber 6, 2011 through June 8, 2012 (Exhibit D2); Appointment of Joanne Boyd, Linda Nel- son and Chad Ryburn to serve on the Community Education Advisory Council (CEAC) from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2014 (Exhibit El); Local Collaborative Time Study (LCTS) grants totaling $103,810 with $85,810 to District 196 and $18,000 to community - based, non-profit organizations (Exhibit E2); An agreement with Southwest Area YMCA to provide summer programs from June 10 through August 18, 2011, and pay the district $41,671.19 for Summer Power at Deerwood, Highland, North - view, Pinewood, Rosemount and Wood- land elementary schools; Sports Camp at Rosemount Middle School, and Summer Uproar at Black Hawk and Falcon Ridge middle schools (Exhibit E3); and An agreement with Minnesota Valley Branch of YMCA to provide school -age care at Southview and Westview elemen- tary schools from June 10 through August 18, 2011, and pay the district $6,496.98 (Exhibit E4).. There were no Reports. Director of Finance and Operations Jeff Solomon asked the board to approve an agreement with School Space Media for increased fees. Magnuson congratulated Kelli Ellickson, Cedar Park Elementary STEM School, who was named one of the top 25 teachers in the state by Education Minnesota. Sampers noted the next two weeks will be critical at the legislature. He said the public does have influence on their legis- lators and encouraged people to call the school district for information on how pro- posed legislation would impact District 196. Berenz commented on the Strategic Planning process and said the Strategic Planning Task Force will reconvene in late July and early August to develop recom- mendations that will be presented to the School Board and incorporated into district goals for up to the next five years. She announced that more than 2,100 stu- dents are expected to participate in 10 dif- ferent June graduation ceremonies. Berenz congratulated graduates and thanked staff for their hard work. Motion by Duchscher, seconded by Al- bright and carried, with six members voting in favor, no members voting in apposition and no members abstaining, to adjourn the meeting at 8:08 p.m. INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 196 Rosemount -Apple Valley -Eagan Public Schools Minutes of May 24, 2011 Special Board Meeting Chairperson Jackie Magnuson called the special board meeting to order at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at the District Office. Present: Joel Albright; Art Coulson, clerk; Rob Duchscher, vice chairperson; Jackie Magnuson, chairperson; Kevin Sampers; Bob Schutte, treasurer; and Superintendent Jane K. Berenz. Absent: Mike Roseen. Motion by Schulte, seconded by Sam- pers and carried with four members voting in favor, no members voting in opposition and no members abstaining to approve the District 191 seeks loan as it prepares for shutdown Burnsville -Eagan -Savage is among several school districts statewide that plan to borrow while state aid is withheld by Jessica Harper makes on school districts." $8.8 million line of credit. THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS With the state shutdown looming, yet another south metro school district will look at borrowing as a safe- ty net. In a June 22 special meeting, the Burnsville -Ea- gan -Savage School Board unanimously approved a proposal to obtain $12 mil- lion in aid anticipation cer- tificates — a loan that helps school districts alleviate cash flow issues and are to be repaid using state aid. "It's unfortunate we've reached that stage in the process," Board Member Ron Hill said. "I would like to believe that they are aware of the impact this District 191 is among several Minnesota school districts that are looking at loans as a way to hold them over while state aid is fro- zen. Earlier this month, the Rosemount -Apple Valley - Eagan and Lakeville school districts took out both aid anticipation loans and lines of credit to prepare for the special session. Rosemount -Apple Valley -Eagan took out a six-month $15 million aid anticipation loan at 0.32 percent interest and a $24 million line of credit. Lakeville took out a 14-month, $9 million aid anticipation loan and an Hill said he is disap- pointed the special session will cause school districts to accrue interest. "That's much less money available to students," Hill said. How much District 191 will pay in interest will be determined after the certifi- cates are sold. Hill said he assumes the interest will be less than 1 percent based on rates ob- tained by neighboring dis- tricts. The School Board is ex- pected to approve an offer on July 21. E-mail Jessica Harper at: jessica.harper@ecm-inc.com Budget/from 1 A tenured teachers and educa- tional assistants. In addition to the layoffs, the School Board unani- mously approved drawing 2 year. Enrollment was 9,633 during the 2010-11 school year. Enrollment dropped fur- ther this school year and officials say they expect the trend to continue in 2011- districts alleviate cash flow issues and are to be repaid using state aid. The School Board was scheduled to meet June 22 to discuss whether to move forward with the proposal. St. Paul Pioneer Press Wednesday 6-29-2011 Mendota/Lilydale Sibley Highway washes out again Drainage problems plagued same part of road in 2010 By Nick Ferraro nferraro@pioneerpress.com This week's washout of Sibley Memorial Highway is deja vu for residents and business owners of Lilydale and Mendota. For the second time in just over a year, the same section of the state highway succumbed to water drainage problems. The road will be closed between Sec- ond Street and Lexington Avenue for repairs for an undetermined amount of time. The recent washout comes after a contractor performed work in the area that was meant to help prevent further failures. But sev- eral factors — most notably the high rain totals of recent weeks — caused the system to fail, said J.P. Giltach, spokesman for the Minnesota Department of Trans- portation. "It's just about impossible to plan for this moisture," he said. 'The ground is so saturated." Because it sits on a river bluff, the highway is also susceptible to poor draining soils and limestone rock, as well as groundwater movement, he said. "With all of these conditions, a SIBLEY HIGHWAY, 10B > T ell bra s 2B F twincities.com St. PaL St. Paul Roadwork to d( Drivers should expect delays toc through Thursday evening on nor bound U.S. 52 in St. Paul. The Minnesota Department of Tra portation will close the northbot, roadway between Concord Boulew and Interstate 94 from 7 p.m. toc INorth suburbs official ists ev MAPLE W 000, Recipit NORTH ST. PAUL earlier Cities share award of Mir confer( for partnership North St. Paul and Maple- NORTI wood were recently awarded Fora the League of Minnesota Cit- ies' 2011 City of Excellence chars Award for their partnership on parks and recreation pro- All cl gramming. Viking The two cities earned the assault award, which is given to cities accords performing outstanding work Esera that improves community life, defens for their joint initiative in Viking: which Maplewood provides charge recreational programming assault and staff to North St. Paul and di while programs are offered 2010 it through the North St. Paul partner Community Center. ney All The partnership began Jan. In 20( 1 to help lower costs for both lines wi cities. Maplewood anticipates gay. a net gain of more than Two $125,000 additional revenue, dismiss and North St. Paul expects to Ramsey save about $180,000, according June 21 to the award website. missed A panel of judges that Tuaolo included local government pleting Share, The, o-we - o f a/ 1411.41,C Donate Your Car to benefit the Make -A -Wish foundation' of Minnesota * Free vohkle pickup * We accept all vehides— running er not * We also accept boots and RYs * Tax Deductible MAKE- ISH. Coll 651-155-9474 (ldays a week) small congregation in the Appalachians. They were thrilled, and couldn't start fast enough. "Her husband was the kind- est, gentlest soul anyone could have known. He could never hurt anyone's feelings and was always willing to help anyone in need. "Instead of paying them a salary, the congregation had them over for meals or brought them food. "They walked over to the house of the family that was feeding them that evening. When they arrived, the lady of the house had just finished cutting the hair of her seven children. She told them dinner was ready and to come in and sit down. She then took the towel she had used on all seven kids' necks and started to wipe the plates, put food on them and pass them around. "My friend said she felt her stomach turn and looked at her husband for some kind of help. He just said a prayer and started eating. She begged off and said she had been feeling sickly all day. The woman packed up her food in a fruit jar, and sent it home with her. 4 reieas other swallow zoomed in and grabbed the feather in midair. I watched as the pair repeated this activity in the sky. "Playing with nest materials is likely a part of the pair bonding process. It was a beautiful thing to see, and it made me smile. "Later in the day, I walked under a utility wire running above a nest box favored by tree swallows. I looked up to see a swallow perched on the wire. It appeared unconcerned with my proximity. I walked to the mailbox, and on my stroll back to the house, I noticed that the swallow, still perched in the same location, became excited and vocal. I looked up to see its partner flying into the yard. It had a large, white feather in its mouth." Our theater of seasons Butterfly on My Knee: "That cottonwood fluff won't let up! What started out as an ethereal announcement of summer has turned into a pesky nuisance, as it pillows Kathleen, Kevin and Brian, and we do. But in Ireland there are names rarely heard here. Meeting my son-in-law's Irish relatives, with names like Emer, Orla and Mave for women and Finbar, Ronan and Dermot for men, all consid- ered common there, I discov- ered that in County Cork, at least, I had a lot to learn." Our living language (responsorial) Or: Our community of strangers DBHogwild of Lakeville: "While reading BB a few weeks ago, I learned some- thing that changed my life! "Anything that helps under- stand how to communicate with an adolescent son is wel- comed. Mine often uses the word `meh' in response to questions, etc. I had no idea what he meant — and it even angered me a bit, because I thought he was sassing! Now, because of BB, I know that Mr. G. was actually responding with a verbal shrug! c ci t p 0 ri CONTINUED FROM 1B > Sibley Highway more extensive washout could occur quickly," Gillach said. "That is a definite risk." The April 2010 washout reached beneath the section of pavement, causing a por- tion to collapse. The road was closed for three weeks as a MnDOT-hired contractor installed a new drainage sys- tem, stabilized the bluff and rebuilt the road and guard- rail. The latest washout is differ- ent, Gillach said. Soil washed out from behind a 200-foot- long specially -built retaining wall on the downhill side of the bluff — not beneath the pavement — so the road is not currently in danger of collaps- ing, he said. Last year's work, which cost about $80,000, is covered under a seven-year warranty the PQ ersLi 7-(r) M � state has with the contractor — Colorado -based Soil Nail Launcher Inc. There is no timetable in place for when the work will begin or be finished, Gillach said, adding a state govern- ment shutdown would halt repair. "Right now we're getting a plan in place ... and there's all kinds of things that are out of our control — the shutdown, or whatever else," he said. "It's unfortunate it came on this particular date, but it did." Mendota Mayor Brian Miel- ke called the road closure "frustrating, and a cause for concern." The two primary routes to get to the small city are Sibley Memorial Highway (Minnesota 13) from the east and Minnesota 110 from the west. "Our downtown businesses are heavily dependent on through traffic, so this makes it that much more difficult when one half of the way to get there is cut off," he said. Mielke said he planned to talk with MnDOT to get an idea of the extent of the wash- out and whether the highway could be temporarily opened during any possible govern- ment shutdown. The approximately quarter - mile detour now takes motor- ists traveling from Lilydale to Mendota onto Lexington Ave- nue to Minnesota 110 or Victo- ria Curve then back onto Sib- ley Memorial Highway. Linda Young, co-owner of Lucky's 13 Pub in Mendota, said last year's road closure had a minimal effect on her business' sales. "A quarter -mile out of your way is not a huge deal," she said. "But still, it's a situation like, 'Here we go again.' " A reconstruction of the high- way from Mendota to Inter- state 35E in Lilydale meant to address surface drainage issues is scheduled for 2012, Gillach said. "People who live in this area understand that this is a diffi- cult road to maintain and that this kind of thing happens," he said. 100 Years/from IA "I remember all the ex- citement and the sadness and all the terrible busi- ness of what went on," she said. Friends and family gath- ered Last week at Newman's assisted living home in Eagan to celebrate her re- markable life with a surprise party, for which Newman donned a tiara. "They made a lot of fuss. s► I forgot about it, and all of ja sudden they had a party," she said. A Newman is described by her caretakers as an active, humble, "wonderful" per- \• son who likes to help out AA around the house. When asked how she made it to 100 with her health intact, Newman said, "I never smoked and I never drank, I always ate good food, and I kept myself in a happy mood." Born in New Jersey in 1911, Newman headed out to California with her aunt after graduating high school and enrolled at UCLA. While attending col- lege, Newman got a job at Northrop Aircraft Incorpo- rated, which has since be- come Northrop Grumman, a global security company. "I learned everything about an aircraft from be- ginning to end," she said. "I always liked flying. My two brothers were pilots. So that's what I studied." Two years into her schooling, she saw an ad- vertisement by the U.S. Air Force that offered to pay for students to get their degrees in engineering. "So I did," she said. "I was the only woman. The rest were men, and they gave me a bad time." After college, Newman worked on pilot instrument panels for the Air Force. She then met her hus- band, a Navy man, whom she married in 1945. She said one of her fond memories during World War II was dancing with Glenn Miller on New Year's Eve in New York City. She was there visiting her future husband while he was on leave. "My husband and I were in the crowd, right by the stage where (Miller) was playing," she said. "So he looked down and asked my husband, 'Are you on leave?' And he said yes, so he brought us up there." Newman remained in California and continued working for the Air Force until the end of the war, and then moved around a lot due to her husband's job. She eventually ended up in Minnesota, where her husband was from, origi- nally settling in Barnum, a small town near Duluth. She and her husband raised two adopted chil- dren, a son and a daughter. Her husband died at age 85. Her daughter died at 49, and Newman helped raise her two children. Her son, 58, currently lives in Plym- outh. While Newman has slowed down a bit since she had her right leg amputated below the knee two years ago due to a blood clot, she still keeps her mind active. She keeps up on current events, watches the news every night, and reads two books a week. "I like books about fami- lies, how they originate and grow up," she said. "I like a book that's really good, and not like most of them are today. They use a lot of swear words, and I don't like that." She and her husband were avid golfers who would hit the links after church ev- ery Sunday, and Newman still loves to watch golf on TV "And I was always inter- ested in music," she said. "Classical." She is also passionate about painting. Her group home is dotted with exam- ples of her art, something she continues to indulge in. Newman said she is sur- prised she made it to 100, although her grandmother lived to 102. After collecting a century of wisdom, Newman offers these words of advice to a younger generation: "Keep an open mind, and share the love of people around you, and always be helpful. I think God intended us to be that way," she said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. �7 s t J Leuar jrove remain stalled due to a depressed market. A developer planning two extended -stay hotels has since moved on, as have those planning 250 apart- ment units and senior hous- ing. But the area's master de- veloper, Pratt Development, recently added Jim McCaf- frey of national commercial brokerage firm Cassidy Tur- ley to its team to market the project more aggressively. "We hope by adding a national broker it will help drum up additional inter- est and activity in the area," said Eagan Community Development Director Jon Hohenstein. The City Council re- mains committed to the principles of higher density, walkability, transportation, and mixed -use development for the area, he said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc. corn. Ca rii We are more than a thrift store. We are a ministry/foodshelf helping the community in meeting their needs. We have excellent sales every day. Our Sale Of The Day Changes - - 40% OFF one day, something new the next! An Outreach Mihist y o f Victory Fellowship 2020 E Hwy 13 • Burnsville, MN • 952-890-8222 Photo by Erin Johnson Its legal recourse over, U-Haul will now negotiate with the city over a purchase price for its property in the Cedar Grove redevelopment area. Court won't hear Eagan eminent domain case U-Haul was last remaining Cedar Grove business to fight city over taking of property by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Minnesota Supreme Court will not hear an appeal by the last remaining Cedar Grove property owner fight- ing Eagan's use of eminent do- main. U-Haul was the last busi- ness standing in a lawsuit brought by three property owners in 2007 over the taking of their land for a planned ur- ban village. The other two businesses, Larson Automotive and Com- petition Engines, reached set- tlement agreements after the state appeals court sided with the city in December. Now the city and U-Haul will go back to district court to work out the valuation of the property, according to the city. This brings to an end a See, Eminent Domain, 15A 4// • / 2. • / ,5 Ate, -- - - - . - ww- — —M— Includes a 29 point inspection. Price is valid 1 1 for most vehicles. Plus tax & shop supplies J J with up to 5-quarts of non -synthetic oil including a spin on filter. Coupons may not T-I 651-9i ARC be combined with any other coupons or J J Coupon may not be combin specials. Expires 5/30/1 1. coupons or specials. Expir r J L $1O OFF A $50 Purchase $20 OFF A $100 Purchase $30 OFF 1 1 1 r — — — — 1 1 1 1 , FR 1 1 1►ACCh 1 J J Test System 0 J J Perform Compon: J A $200 Purchase J 1 $39.99 HONEST- 1 651-994-9000 , r HONE Coupon may not be combined with anyother 707=ARE" 1 P Y r coupons or specials. Excludes tire purchases. Additional Diagnostic Testing Expires 5/30/11. J 1 at an additional charge. Ex� J L 651-9 HONEST-1 pr wa AA6 • SOUTH EXTRA • STAR TRIBUNE • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 2011 (SO) «I'M VERY, VERY PROUD OF THE STATION. IT REFLECTS OUR COMMUNITY AND OUR PRIORITIES. » Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire Photos by HERON MARQUEZ• hme@startribune.com The new $8 million safety center includes a dormitory where some firefighters live as well as an in- door training area for ladder, roof and window rescues, which these firefighters are preparing to do. Nation's first `green' fire station opens in Eagan STATION FROM AA1 BOOM!, they are in the truck right away." The safety center also will serve as a training site, with a smoke -filled room for search - and -rescue drills, a stairwell that drains so water hoses can be used inside it, and an in- door area where ladders can be used to practice roof and window rescues. The Eagan Police Depart- ment will use the facility for training and evidence storage, as well. The city's emergency operations center, which was at the police department, is now at the safety center. Mayor Mike Maguire said that almost from the start, the city wanted to build a green facility. It was able to become the first fire station certified by Green Globes, a system of rating energy uses and envi- ronmental efficiencies of new construction projects. "I'm very, very proud of the The building's bay doors are glassed to allow more natural light to come in, thus reducing lighting bills. station," Maguire said. "It re- flects our community and our priorities." Another interesting fea- ture of the facility is that the city's first fire truck, restored by volunteers, will be housed on permanent display. And there will be a replica of one of the city's original police squad cars. "The whole concept, the geothermal, the green sav- ings, just seemed to make sense," Hedges said. "We try and build for the future." Heron Marquez • 952-707-9994 The open house for the new facility included tours for residents and hands-on activities, such as al- lowing children to use the fire hose to put out an imaginary fire at a make-believe building. (SO) WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 2011 • STAR TRIBUNE • SOUTH EXTRA • AA5 EX7IRES JUNE 3a.2011 AUDIBEL People Conneeting People could benefit from county re- pair funds. Harry is Randolph's worst road, Marthaler said. "I don't like to see it like it is, but times are a little tough," he said. For now, the township temporarily will fill Harry's potholes while waiting to see if the county will help. "Gravel is an option," Marthaler said. "If we can't get anything done, we will check what it would cost to just to mill it and you can lay the as- phalt back down as a form of gravel." Jan Weir drives to work over rolling hills, through corn fields and past scattered homes along Harry's worn, pock -marked surface. She manages a live- stock business office in Simon Arena. She said Harry's pot- holes, extending across the road in some spots, are tough to avoid. How about a gravel option? She replied: "Gravel would be better than what we have now.,, Jim Adams • 952-707-9996 ow recovering comics Cathy cohol-free show. t that drunks don't heckle the Guthrie or Chanhassen eaters. "When someone gets out of d, it can be unbelievable," said. "Two -drink mini- m? There should also be a o-drink max." ria Elena Baca • 612-673-4409 RICHARD SENNOT • Richard.Sennott@startribune.com Harry Road, the main entry to Lake Byllesby Regional Park, is in bad shape, but replacing it could cost over Si million. Saints, firms raising money for veterans A VETERANS FROM AA1 Each Tuesday at Saints home games at Midway Stadi- um in St. Paul, Koski and oth- er volunteers staff a booth col- lecting donations for veterans. The booths will be available at seven of the team's 50 home games this season. "We're involved in a num- ber of military events in gener- al," said Derek Sharrer, general manager of the Saints. "We've done one-off things each year. The length of the fundraising, that's what was different about this one. We think it's incredi- bly important." Vitalis said that the group is contacted by more than 10,000 veterans each year. Research shows that on any given night, about 670 veterans are without a home in Minnesota. Many others, Vitalis said, are on the verge of homelessness or some other crisis. TDS Telecommunications, with an office in Eagan, is co- ordinating the effort, work- ing with the Saints and south - metro businesses such as the Hilton Garden Inn in Eagan. "The needs vary, but the fact remains, too many veterans are struggling," Jason Engler, mar- keting manager for TDS in Eagan, said in a news release. "More veterans are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan to face unimaginable challeng- es. These are people that pro- tected our country, fought for our country. They are heroes. Now, they need a little help to get back on their feet." Her&n Marquez • 952-707-9994 Audibel Hearing Centers PEOPLE CONNECTING PEOPLE FREE OF CHARGE! Don't miss this opportunity to receive a personal demonstration on the latest in digital hearing technology! Appointments are necessary, as we expect a strong response. On Our Most Advanced Digital Hearing Systems (Based on two instruments) AUDIBEL. EXPIRES Video Otoscope and Hearing Exam A$115 Value BATTERIES* Buy one pack, get one pack FREE! Batteries in sizes to fit ALL MAKES, ALL MODELS AUDIBEL. EXPIRES AUDIBEL. .,•,•n,,,,,a,M nupy • • IUHf 10, 2011 ,w,•t„H,y,..w, JUNE30, 411 •„a,,,,,,,�,,,y, THE WAIT I5 OVER! 100% DIGITAL THAT'S AFFORDABLE $998°ERA1D Audibel Hearing Centers is offering a 100% custom digital Instrument that automatkaity adjusts to enhance speech clarity and manages background noise for $998 peraid. EXPIRES AUDIBEL. NNE 30.2011 Audibel Hearing Center 14135 Cedar Ave. South • Apple Valley, MN 55124 (800) 861-7502 www.audibelhearingmn.com Additional locations: Shakopee • Owatonna • New Ulm Fairmont • Windom • Mankato • Faribault • St.James R.w..-.i,..=r. Tom Hammrich H.I.S. THINKING ABOUT A DSF MEMBERSHIP? No initiation feel One low price lets you enjoy full membership privileges now through Labor Day, Start your membership in July ... Nation's first `green fire station opens in Eagan • The new $ 8 million safety center includes a dorm where some firefighters will live - a move that should cut response times dramatically — and is eco-friendly. By HERON MARQUEZ ESTRADA hme@startribune.com Eagan is hot for its new safety center, which fea- tures the first green fire station in the nation. A warm glow comes over city officials when they start talking about the $8 million facility, which opened last week. The safety center has dozens of geothermal wells for heating and cooling, LED and natural lighting throughout, even recycled ash trees and recycled building materials. "It's absolutely fantastic," City Administrator Tom Hedges said at the opening attended by hun- dreds of residents on Thursday afternoon. Most importantly, the closing and relocation of two fire stations from outlying areas to near the heart of the city's industrial -commercial centers should help reduce response times for fire calls, possibly by as much as half in some cases. Hedges said that having six of the city's volun- teer firefighters live in the facility should improve response times. In a relatively new concept, the six firefighters will be provided free dorm rooms in exchange for their presence at the station. "We were fearful that our response time was getting longer," Hedges said. "We want firefight- ers in the station. Here, if there is a fire, then Station continues on AA6 ► HERON MARQUEZ • hme@startribune.com The new fire station in Eagan is certified by Green Globes, which rates projects for energy and environmental efficiency. Among the station's features is natural light from rows of windows. IU, on. . ... .. . ple Valley. 952-431-9500. EAGAN FUNFEST: Carnival, children's games and vendors. Events start at 4 p.m. Sat., noon on Sun. and Mon. Fire- works display on July 4th. Central Park Eagan, 1501 Central Pkwy., Eagan. 651- 675-5001. FREEDOM DAYS: Car show cruise, live music, kids fishing derby, carnival, pa- rade and more, through Monday. Fire- works at dusk on July 4th. Locations and times vary; see website for details. John- ny Cake Ridge Park, W. 144h St. and John- ny Cake Ridge Rd., Apple Valley. 952-953- 2300. PAN-O-PROG: Various events including a parade, battle of the bands, craft mar- ket, classic car parade and more around the city of Lakeville through July 9. Fire- works at dusk July 4th at Lakeville North High School, 19600 Ipava Av. Other events are at various locations around Lakeville. www.panoprog.org PRIOR LAKE 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS DISPLAY: 10 p.m. Mon. Lakefront Park, 5000 Kop Pkwy., Prior Lake. SUMMER FETE: Carnival, food vendors and entertainment starting at 3 p.m. Sun. Fireworks at dusk. Free. Normandale Lake Park, W. 84th St. and Normandale Lake Blvd., Bloomington. BOOKS CATHY ISLES: "Faces Who Are We" and a children's art project. Included with gen- blotter HOME AND HOBBIES KIDS IN THE GARDEN: "Worm Farm Com- posting." Ages 3 to 10, registration re- quired. All Bachman's locations except Cedar Acres. 10-11 a.m. Sat. Free. 612- 861-7600. OLD HOTEL MARKET: Old, new and oth- er treasures. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri. -Mon. Old Hotel Market, 441 Main St, Elko New Market. 952-270-6056. MUSIC DIAMOND RIO AND ROCKET CLUB: Fol- lowed by fireworks. 7:30 p.m. Mon. Free. Mystic Lake Hotel and Casino, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake. 952- 445-9000. JASON MRAZ: 8 p.m. Sun. $36.50-$46.50. Mystic Lake Hotel and Casino, 2400 Mys- tic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake. 952-445-9000. MATISYAHU AND THE NORTH MISSISSIP- P1 ALLSTARS: 7:30 p.m. Thu. $40. Minne- sota Zoo, 13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley. 952-431-9500. THE MONKEES: The 45th anniversary tour. 7:30 p.m. Fri. -Sat. $65-$77.50. Min- nesota Zoo, 13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Val- ley. 952-431-9500. OKEE DOKEE BROTHERS:4 p.m. next Wed. Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Pkwy., Eagan. 651-675-5500. REDPATH: 4 p.m. today. Eagan Commu- nity Center, 1501 Central Pkwy., Eagan. 651-675-5500. ing from the residence. Property damage. The rear window tral Park. www.rosemountsvents.com/ leprechaun.html. HASTINGS RIVERTOWN DAYS: Medallion hunt, singing competition, carnival, arts and crafts fair, sidewalk sale, tent dart4e, Lake Rebecca canoe tours, Vermillion Riv- er "duck races." July 14-17. Parade 12:30 p.m. July 17. Events at various locations, including downtown, Levee Park and Jay- cee Park. KOLACKY DAYS: Live entertainment, baking contest, classic cars and fam- ily activities. July 22-24. Montgomery Memorial Park, W. Park Lane and E. 5th St. www.montgomerymn.org/kfJay index.html. b SCOTT COUNTY FAIR: Live music and en- tertainment, carnival, food, beer garden. Supercross racing, 4-H events and con- tests. Noon-10 p.m. July 27, 10 p.m. July 28-30. Free admission; grand- stand events $5-$10; tickets needed for midway rides. Parking $10. Scott Coun- ty Fairgrounds, 7151 W. 190th St. 952-492- 2436. www.scottcountyfair.com. CHASKA RIVER CITY DAYS: Art and craft fair, senior breakfast, bake fair, live enfitr- tainment and family activities, starting -at 9 a.m. July 29, 7:30 a.m. July 30 and 7 a.m. July 31. City Square Park, 300 Chestnut St. www.chaskarivercitydays.com. Compiled by MELISSA WALKER Have a festival to add to our weekly sum mer listings? E-mail dylan.belden@star tribune.com. NI BAND: 7 p.m. Thu. Normandale Lake Park, W. 84th St. and Normandale Lake Blvd., Bloomington. 952-563-8895. THEATER JOE MATERESE: 8 p.m. today -Thu., Sun.; 8 & 10:30 p.m. Fri. -Sat. $13-$19. Rick Bron- son's House of Comedy, 8100 24th Av. 5., Bloomington. 952-858-8558. ART CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES - 100 YEARS OF CHINESE AMERICAN HISTORY IN MINNESOTA: Photographs and contem- porary art. Ends July 16. Burnsville Per- forming Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Av. S., Burnsville. 952-895-4685. HEROES AMONG US - SCOTT COUNTY WORLD WAR II VETERANS: Listen to sto- ries told by local WWII veterans, watch WWII video, and gain an understanding of the experiences these young men and women endured during a pivotal period in our country's history. Ends Aug. 31. $2- $4. Scott County Historical Society, 235 S. Fuller St., Shakopee. 952-445-0378. JURIED ART COMPETITION AND SHOW: Paintings, digital, photography, three- dimensional and more. Ends July 14. Savage Art Studios, 4735 W. 123rd St., Savage. 952-895-0375. WWW: An exhibit that explores how the Internet has changed human rela- tions and how we process time and ex- perience. Ends Aug. 6. Northfield Arts JUNE 17 DOWNTOWN FARMINGTON FARMERS MARKET: 3-6 p.m. Thu. 109 Spruce St. INVER GROVE FARMERS MARKET: 3:30- 6:30 p.m. Thu. Veteran's Memorial Com- munity Center, 8055 Barbara Av., Inver Grove Heights. 651-227-8101. LAKEVILLE FARMERS MARKET: Noon- 5 p.m. today, next Wed.; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat. Holyoke Av. and 208th St. W. 651- 227-8101. MANKATO FARMERS MARKET: 3:30-6 p.m. Thu., Tue.; 8 a.m.-noon Sat. Madison East Center, 1400 Madison Av. 1-507-420-8711. NEW PRAGUE FARMERS MARKET: 9 a.m.- noon Sat. N. 500 County Rd. 37. 952-758- 3717. PRIOR LAKE FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m.- noon Sat. Hwy. 13 and Pleasant Av. 952- 447-0263. RED WING FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat. Red Wing City Hall, 315 W. 4th St. 651-258-4233. RIVERWALK MARKET FAIR: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat. S. Water St. and W. 5th St., Northfield. 1-507-786-9700. ROSEMOUNT FARMERS MARKET: 2-6 p.m. Tue. 13885 S. Robert Trail. 651-227-8101. SAVAGE FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sun. Hwy. 13 and Princeton Av. 651-227- 8101. SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COM- MUNITY FARMERS MARKET: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thu. Mazopiya Natural Food Mar- ket, 27571 Credit Union Dr., Prior Lake. 952-496-6160. JUN APPLE VALLEY FREEDOM DAYS: Carnival, music, teen and family events, kids' fish- ing tournament and more. Many events in Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 W. 140th St. Now through Monday. Pa- rade 1 p.m. Monday from Pennock and Fireside to Apple Valley High School. Fireworks 10 p.m. July 4 at the park. www.avfreedomdays.com. JULY EAGAN FUNFEST: Carnival, children's games and vendors, starting at 4 p.m. Saturday, noon Sunday -Monday. Fire- works display at 10 p.m. Monday. Eagan Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Pkwy. www.cityofeagan.com. PAN-O-PROG: Various events including a parade, battle of the bands, craft mar- ket, classic car parade and more, from Monday -July 9. Fireworks at dusk Monday at Lakeville North High School, 19600 1pa- va Av. Various locations in Lakeville. www.panoprog.org. LAKEFRONT JAZZ AND BLUES FESTI- VAL: With the Prior Lake High School Jazz Band and Buddy Guy. 1 p.m. July 16. $5-$10; under 18 free. Prior Lake Lake- front Pavilion, 15836 Ridgemont Av. SE. www.lakefrontjazz.com. LEPRECHAUN DAYS: Bluegrass week- end, family games and contests, fire- works, parade, "mid -summer faire" and more in Rosemount. July 22-31. Most Engineering, 12467 Boone Av. S. Eagan Art Fest 2011: a regional draw for the young at art BY MATTHEW HANKEY • SUN NEWSPAPERS A summer festival south of the river is gaining regional critical acclaim year after year. This year, the 17th annual two-day Eagan Art Festival will feature 100 pro- fessional artists from all over the Midwest. The festival runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 25 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 26 at Central Park, 1501 Central Parkway. The festi- val's featured artist is Craig Richardson of Oakdale, who was selected by a jury of fellow artists. This will be his first year displaying his art at the festival, but he's been turning wood professional- ly for 20 years. Richardson's work will be featured on all of the marketing for the festival, which includes 13,000 color brochures, 10,000 postcards, an ETV ad, the festi- val's-Facebook page, the home page for the festival website and newspaper ads, said festival director Wanda Borman. Richardson wants people to under- stand that for many artists, creating art is not a side interest, but a way of life. "It's not a hobby, it's a living," Richardson said of his art, adding he hopes festival goers leave with "a gener- al appreciation for what art is and can be." Eagan artist Maureen Sorensen will be making her seventh appearance at the festival this year. Her specialties include working with stained glass, dried plant materials and other objects she finds. With those objects, she creates stars with 5 to 100 spires, kaleidoscopes, coasters and botanical silhouettes. "I enjoy the endless possibilities of creating in this medium." Sorensen said. In addition to the visual arts, festival attendees will be able to hear and view local musical acts. These musical groups will provide an array of musical stylings, including smooth vocal jazz by Paula Lammers, multi -cultural guitar music by Greg Herriges, bluegrass music with a modern twist by Galactic Cowboy Orchestra, and music by Paul Imholte - a musician adept in 12 different stringed instruments. Lammers has performed at the festival in the past, and has been asked to return because of her rapport with the crowd. "People at the festival like her because her music is so upbeat and she has good energy with the audience," said Borman. The Galactic Cowboy Orchestra is making its first appearance 2:45 p.m. on Sunday at the festival, but has per- formed in Eagan before at one of last year's Market Fests. Two girls ponder the essence of crafted artwork at the 2006 Eagan Art Festival. This year, 100 Midwest artists will be displaying their artwork at the 17th annu- al event on June 25 and 26 at Central Park. Dozens of food vendors and live musical entertainment will accentuate the two-day festival. (Sun Newspapers file photo) "We're looking forward to seeing some new faces and making some new fans as well," said Elisa Wright, the band's fiddle player. Wright is excited to perform at an event that supports artistic expression, both musical and visual. She thinks the band's unique sound she dubbed "new - grass, art -rock" will fit in well at the event. "It's fantastic, always, when people sup- port the arts," Wright said. "It's really great to put new and different forms of artistic work in front of the public." The festival is operating under the theme "Youth in Art." This will provide an opportunity for teenagers to experience exhibiting and selling their work in a festi- val setting. Ten youth artists will display their artwork in the "Youth in Art Tent." Children's entertainment is also fea- tured at the festival. The Teddy Bear Band, Radio Disney, Alex the Juggler, and Dance -Twirl Minnesota - an award - winning baton act - will provide chil- dren with oodles of fun. For those looking for a hands-on expe- rience, The Eagan Art House will pro- vide a forum to make creating art inter- active and fun, Borman said. Festival attendants will be able to create artist trading cards - miniature works of art that can be traded or collected - at the Kid's Tent or Art Experience Tents. Children and adults can participate in this activity and cards can be designed at the whim of the artist's imagination. The Art Experience Tent will feature demonstrations by Eagan Art House teaching artists including pottery, mosa- ic, painting and other activities, Borman said. There will be an eclectic mix of ven- dor food options - including gyros, cheese curds, kettle corn tacos, specialty hotdogs, hamburgers, nachos, funnel cake and fresh lemonade. The festival is a collaboration of the Eagan Art House, Eagan Community Center, Eagan Convention & Visitors Bureau, Caponi Art Park and Eagan Resource Center, as well as many volunteers. Sorensen wants people to realize that art is accessible, no matter your level of experience with creating or enjoying other's work. 'Art is approachable and it's for peo- ple of all ages," Sorensen said. "The Eagan Art Festival is time well -spent with family and friends." I OMMUNITY LINES Apple Valley Apple Valley residents Maricris Gavino, Mary Beth Schroeder, Luke Aeilts, Kelly Dean, Madison Hystad, Krista Strobel and Rachel Gulden were named to the dean's list at Creighton University. Apple Valley's Kjersten Bratvold, Katie Grundstrom, Allie Johnson, Gina Soukey, Summer Freed, Ashlynn Montgomery, Lauren Stepka and Ashley Terry recently completed their Girl Scout Gold Award project to earn the highest Girl Scout award. For their Girl Scout Gold Award project, Kjersten, Katie, and Allie created a Kids' Club at Dakota Woodlands, a local shelter that empowers homeless women to create stable futures for their families. Apple Valley residents Melanie Falk, John Friendshuh, Adam Hoffman, Jack Cable, Alexander Falk, Seo Won Lee, Riley Stone, Sam VanderAarde, Elizabeth Dubanoski, Megan Hoffman and Zhongxiu Wang earned academic honors for trimester three at the Academy of Holy Angels in Richfield, Alicia Granos, a 2002 graduate of Eastview High School, received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree June 2. She graduated with honors from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York. Sean Teagarden, a 2002 graduate of Eastview High School, received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree June 2. He graduated with honors and received the Basic Science Award for the highest preclinical GPA from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York. His parents, Nancy Teagarden and Gary Teagarden, reside in Eagan. Eagan The following Eagan residents were named to the dean's list at Creighton University: Maricris Gavino, Mary Beth Schroeder, Luke Aeilts, Kelly Dean, Madison Hystad and Krista Strobel. Dana Mueller of Eagan was one of 206 students to receive a doctor of medi- cine degree from The Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee at its 98th annual commencement exercises May 20 at The Milwaukee Theater. Eagan resident Blake Westling was named to the spring dean's list at University of Wisconsin -La Crosse. Eagan residents Victoria DePrey, Rachel Dubbink, Nicholas Hirsch, Emily Hoeppner, Meghan Mayer, John The Minnesota Room 16x12 Four Season Porch - Complete for only $26,967 • Price inclodn all required Wading permits and aumW aitH prparetion Beautiful Rooms at Affordable Prices • Room Additions, 3&4 Season Porches. Screen Porches, 2-story Additions, and Decks • Minnesota's #1 Builder of Attached and Detached Garages • Professional Roofing and Siding Replacement • Financing available up to 110% of homes value • Every project we do is custom designed._ hand-frameo craftsmanship to match your home Minnesota's most trusted builder with over 50,000 satisfied customers since 1915 • Check out www Susselbuilders com for additional information and offers CaII Today for your FREE ESTIMATE Saint Paul 651.645.0331 Minneapolis 612.379.0949 Established ill 19I5 MN Lic 1934 Visit our showroom at: SUSSEL BUILDERS 654 Transfer Rd.16B St. Paul www.SusselBuilders.com Homes • Additions • Garages • Exteriors Miotti, Emily Ness, Angela Nordstrom, Amanda Sackmaster, Rita Taylor, Olivia Vogel, Bridget Williams, Caleb Benz, Jordan Black, Liesl Bower -Jernigan, Lindsay Burns, Andrew Crossman, Marc Fink, Laura Jaede, Abigail Kneeland, Elizabeth Mattson, Margaret Mikulski, Elizabeth Miotti, Kyla Moloney, Tatjana Mortell, Jacob Orner, Robert Rukavina, Maximilian Steininger, Luke Taylor, Drew Williams, Carissa Young, Ryan Anderson, Stella Cervinski, Lauren Gazich, Ryan Gazich, Elizabeth Gruenke, Jack Hillesheim, Cullen Hurley, Madeleine Karl, Sarah Kojetin, Andrea Kvasnicka, Christine Lam, Ashley Marback-Laddusaw, Michael Mortell, Kayla Mulrooney, Thomas Patrias, Maura Rigney, Elizabeth Rosener, Parker Smith, Cassandra Titze, Kathryn Wier and Anna Zesbaugh earned academic hon- ors for trimester three at the Academy of Holy Angels in Richfield. Sean Teagarden, a 2002 graduate of Eastview High School, received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree June 2. He graduated with honors and received the Basic Science Award for the highest preclinical GPA from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York. His parents, Nancy Teagarden and Gary Teagarden, reside in Eagan. Tom Shu and Zachary Nelson of Eagan were named to the dean's list at Hamline University for the spring term of the 2010-2011 academic year. Rosemount Rosemount's Meghan Sable recently completed her Girl Scout Gold Award project to earn the highest Girl Scout award. Meghan found an alternative to pesticides to help control mosquitoes for her Girl Scout Gold Award project. She built and installed six bat houses in two Richfield parks with the goal of attract- ing bats and reducing the amount of pes- ticides the city needed to use. Rosemount residents Huan Nguyen, Zachary Strayton and Haley Weis earned academic honors for trimester three at the Academy of Holy Angels in Richfield. Dakota County The Scott Carver Dakota Community Action Programs (CAP) Agency was COMMUNITY LINES: TO NEXT PAGE LOSE IVEIGHT BUILD MUSILE FINALLY, WEIGHT LOSS MADE SIMPLE! Ground breaking research of HCG has changed the world of weight loss forever! HCG is a chemical produced by the human body that helps it use fat more efficiently. According to renowned endocrinologist, Dr. Albert T.W. Simeons, HCG effectively sends signals to the brain to release fat stores. For years, HCG was only available by injection. Now, with its new advanced liquid formula, SimplePure Nutrition has made it available in sublingual drops. Simply put the drops under your tongue and you'll start to experience rapid weight loss of up to 1-21bs per day! Hurry While it's FREE! For a limited time, makers of SimplePure HCG are giving away a free bottle just for calling their toll free hotline. Limit one per household. This offer good while supplies last. PUT MUSCLE WHERE THE FAT WAS! • Rapid weight Toss of up to 2lbs per day! • No injections or pills to take • Targets fat loss in problem areas CaII Now For Your FREE Bottle 1-888-824-0879 (4 Please consult with your physician before taking any nutritional supplements. If you are on any medications, check with your dolor regarding dosage adjustments. Individual results may vary. These statements hove not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. EaganCM_App YIe Valle--����� Rosemount minnlocal.com URRENT June 23, 2011 • V36.25 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Annual Eagan Fun Fest set for July 2-4 BY MATTHEW HANKEY SUN NEWSPAPERS The 45th annual Eagan Fourth of July celebration features sights familiar to past attendees, but look out for a giant, illuminated, spinning wheel towering over the festival grounds. The three-day Eagan Funfest meets July 2-4 at the Eagan Community Center festival grounds, 1501 Central Parkway. This year, the carnival will feature the "Giant Wheel," an 80-feet tall Ferris wheel with a com- puter -generated LED light. Also new to the celebration this year is the Health & Wellness event 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 2 and is for people of all ages. Exercise classes, health and wellness exhibitors and fun activities for kids will be featured as Participants in the 2006 Eagan Funfest parade march in line while offering a salute. This year's parade is at 10 a.m. Monday, July 4. Eaga Funfest attendants can take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel, participate in the first annual Health and Wellness event July 2 and watch th FUNFEST: TO PAGE 4 unveiling of the military statue July 3 at the Hometown Heroes Plaza. (Sun Newspapers file photo) immommiimodimmismaft.liiimusamishiAtuablaLaiinmicriandmn awe 2 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, June 23, 2011—www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Dakota County festivals Here is a rundown of some of the annual festivals happening this summer in Dakota County: • Pan-O-Prog (Lakeville): Events meet June 17 through July 10. Highlights include Cruise Night, July 4 Fireworks, medallion hunt, Miss Lakeville pageant contest, battle of the bands, family fun fair, and World War II aircraft displays. More information available at panoprog.org. • Apple Valley Freedom Days (Apple Valley): Events meet June 24 through July 4. Highlights include the Dancin' BRING IN THIS AD WITH YOUR JEWELRY AND RECEIVE A PAIR OF PASSES TO: and Cruisin' car show and dance, a car- nival, a doubles tournament, 2- and 5- mile runs, a Fourth of July parade, and a fireworks display the same day. More information available at avfreedom- days.com. • Eagan Fun Fest (Eagan): Meets July 2-4. Highlights include Texas Hold'em Tournament, music concerts, a Patriotic Day event, a dedication ceremony for Eagan Veterans Memorial, children's games, and a fireworks display. More information available at eaganfunfest.org. • Eagan Arts Festival (Eagan): Meets June 25-26. Seventeenth -annual art fair I; IVE YOU MORE to feature more than 100 artists in Central Park, Eagan. Events include food vendors, music performances, and a children's art activity. More informa- tion at Eaganartfestival.org. • Art and All that Jazz Festival (Burnsville): Meets Aug. 19-20, at Nicollet Commons Park, Burnsville. Highlights include various musical per- formances, including some for free out- side. More information available at bur nsvilleartj azz. com. • Leprechaun Days (Rosemount): Meets July 22-31. Rosemount's "Mid - Summer Faire." Highlights include a parade and the Bluegrass Americana Weekend bluegrass festival. Event closes with fireworks and a tractor pull. More information available at rosemoun- tevents.com. • Burnsville Fire Muster (Burnsville): Meets Sept. 7-11. Highlights include a fire truck parade, children's activities, fire- works, a disc golf clinic, fire demonstra- tions, a carnival, an auto extraction demonstration. More information at burnsv illefiremuster. com. Visit minnlocal.com for videos, more photos and daily news updates newspapers THINGS WE BUY: GOLD & SILVER JEWELRY GOLD WATCHES COINS INGOTS WE PAY YOU ON THE SPOT FOR YOUR OLD, UNWANTED, OR DAMAGED JEWELRY MADE OF GOLD, 4 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, June 23, 2011— www.minnlocal.com Eagan Fun Fest FROM PAGE 1 part of the event, event director and coordinator Susan Ryan said. The Red Cross will also have a blood donation station available. Participants can take classes in car- dio Hip Hop, yoga and belly dancing. Massage therapists and chiropractic exhibitors will be onsite to relax and realign people with tension and pain issues. A Kid's Zone with ongoing activi- ties will include obstacle courses, mar- tial arts, basketball, a speed and agili- ty class, a dance team performance and a rope -waving competition. Video game enthusiasts can play Wii Fit or Xbox 360 Connect. The best part, Ryan said, is the event is free and promotes healthiness on a holiday where people's eating habits often get away from them. "And what better way to kick off the weekend, than to burn off some calo- ries?" Ryan said. Event director and chair Larry Hilden said Eagan residents should attend the festival to help commemo- rate the significance of the holiday weekend. "It's a great way to come in and enjoy the patriotic holiday with the Eagan community," Hilden said. July 3 is "Patriotic Day" at the event, which caps off with the unveil- ing of a military statue in the Hometown Heroes Plaza. Military service veterans are encouraged to attend this ceremony, which include speeches from veterans Richard Carroll and Anthony Caponi. An entertainment highlight, Hilden said, will be The Dweebs July 4 performance. The Somerset, Wis.- based band is making its fourth con- secutive appearance at the festival, largely due to their audience interac- tion. The Dweebs have been known to get audience members on stage and dress as "Village People" during the YMCA. The band also coordinates a hokey pokey dance during the AC/DC song, "Whole Lotta Rosie." "They're on all -family type of entertainment," Hilden said. "They entertain the crowds and get kids up on stage." Lead guitarist Mike Blue said he is honored his band was chosen to per- form again at the festival. The Dweebs have played at numerous July 4th events, but Blue said the Eagan Funfest organizers to a great job of creating an event for all ages. "The fact that you've got some- thing for everyone: carnival, games, entertainment, fireworks, no cover charge...it's actually one of the best Fourth of July shows as far as how the event is coordinated," Blue said. Of course, no Fourth of July cele- bration would be complete without a parade. This year's annual rite begins 10 p.m. July 4 and the route is Yankee Doodle Road to Central Parkway. The Eagan Funfest is capped off by the region's largest fireworks display, which runs about 30 minutes, Hilden said. Hilden anticipates roughly 10,000 people to attend the parade and 20,000 for the fireworks show. Military veterans are encouraged to participate in the parade, said event secretary Cory Hilden. Veterans have the option to walk the mile -long route or be seated with the Eagan Funfest Ambassador Alumni on a float. Once it ends, parade ambassadors will participate in the fourth annual "Royal Brain Freeze" event. The parade royalty compete to see who can eat a bowl of ice cream the fastest, often with humorous results. Ryan said it's a must -see event. "They end up with ice cream from forehead to chin," said Ryan. "It's hilarious." Advance discounted carnival tick- ets are currently available for 50 to 80 percent savings over the on -site prices. They can be bought online at eagafunfest.org, Eagan City Hall, or at the Eagan Community Center. Event organizers are still looking for volunteers and need 150 for this year's festival. Those interested in vol- unteering can go to eaganfunfest.org to register. For special group arrange- ments, e-mail volunteer coordinator Susan Ryan at volunteer@eaganfun- fest.org. For veterans interested in partici- pating in the event or for more details, contact Cory Hilden at info@EaganFunfest.org. Visit www.minnlocaLcom for extended news and advertising www.minnlocal.com—Thursday, June 23, 2011— Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 3 eedom Days 2011 calendar of events re 24 to 12 a.m. Car cruise stration begins at 3 p.m. Ave. The car show and _o a 9 p.m. G.B. Leighton le 26 turfing Bob and the ark, Fortino Street and lune 29 t Lac Lavon Park. 15607 ring your own fishing ly /al: Meets 5-10 p.m. at ;00 140th Street West. A mited rides 6-9 p.m. nt: Meets 5-7 p.m. at the Register by calling 952- my 2 the Apple Valley High Register by calling 952- Sunday, July 3 • Cub Foods Family Fun Night: Meets at Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 140th St. W. Event includes a pet- ting zoo. pony rides, DJ, parade, Apple Valley police and fire personnel, food vendors, a hamster ball and a balloon launch. • J & K Amusements Carnival: Meets at Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 140th Street West. A $10 wristband special allows unlimited rides 6-9 p.m. Monday, July 4 • Two- and Five -Mile Fun Run: Advance registration deadline Monday, June 27. Registration starts 6:30 a.m., and race begins 8 a.m. Costs are as follows: $7 advance fee (race only); $15 advance fee (race plus a t-shirt); $14 day of event (race only); $22 Day of event (race plus a t-shirt); and Half -Pint Half Mile Race: free. Call 952-952-2300 for more information. • Parade: Runs Pennock Avenue to 145th Street to Hayes Road. • Chicken Dinner: Meets at American Legion Post 1776. Call 952-431-1776 for more information. • J & K Amusements Carnival: Meets at Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 140th Street West. A $10 wristband special allows unlimited rides 6-9 p.m. • Apple Valley Ford pre -fireworks party: Meets 5-10 p.m. at Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 140th St. W • Fireworks show: Meets 10 p.m. at Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 140th St. W. • sx :.# tar •:;� ■ • �■ :/ Psi ■■ •• ••• • .!• •:a•. •• ■ •ar• •yl<: •�.• ;�JI rip NG UNDER THE TENT $ 599 OR LESS TORS DISHWASHERS with Stainless Steel Interior gave BIG on T' will be available. Over -the -Range MICROWAVE FRIGIDAIRE BOSCH Electrolux Front Load WASHERS DRYERS Interest* Hurry In, appliances will sell out fast! . Images provided only as examples and may not represent actual product. While supplies last. Some restrictions apply. Caponi receives award Eagan resident Anthony Caponi recently received an "Eleven Who Care" Award for his service to the community. The Eleven Who Care program recognizes volunteers who have made invaluable contributions to Minnesota and its citizens. Caponi was one of the eleven honorees selected from a pool of more than one hundred nominees. Caponi is an Italian sculptor, edu- cator, poet, author, philosopher, inno- vator, and engineer who has made many contributions to Minnesota's arts community. For 60 years, Caponi has lived, worked, taught, and creat- ed his art in Minnesota. He is the founder of the Caponi Art Park and Learning Center, a non- profit organization where visual and performing arts are presented and fostered in a natural setting. He will be honored at an awards ceremony in late June, and the Eleven Who Care segment will air 10 p.m. June 22 o KARE 11 and will re -air on June and Saturday morning, June 25. Caponi has also been selected as Grand Marshal for Eagan's Fourth July parade honoring hometow heroes and will share stories from h service in World War II during t Eagan Funfest Patriotic Day events Central Park on July 3. www.ApplianceSmart.com to ONLY! 9pm pm est 2-997-6844 Stainless Stee *de REFRiGER Unit antler to image shown not xc-.,t. ana- 12-Month NO 'See sales associate for detail (SO) i COVERING THE SOUTHERN SUBURBS WWW.STARTRIBUNE.COM/LOCAL • SECTIO Demand for rentals is growing faster than the supply. JIM GEHRZ • jgehrz@startribune.com Holly Graner recently moved into a rental townhouse in Eagan. A new survey showed that it is more than twice as difficult to find available rental property in Dakota County this year as it was last year. South -metro renters find fewer vacancies By NICOLE NORFLEET nicole.noffleet@startribune.com It took only a week for Steve Raja- vuori to find renters to sign on the dotted line for his four -bedroom, two -bath house in Lakeville. Just another piece of evidence that resi- dential rentals are in high demand. New survey results show that, com- pared to 2010, it's more than twice as diffi- cult this year to fmd a rental unit in Dakota County Last year, the average vacancy rate in Dakota County was about 6.9 percent, but this year it fell to 3.4 percent, according to the Dakota County Community Develop- ment Agency's annual rental market sur- vey. In Scott County, the average vacancy rate is a little higher than 4 percent. "I think a higher rate of rr nt ,ag i c a bey, norm, and it will be that way for a while," Rajavuori said. The rental market is getting tighter, even though there are more residential units being rented. Rajavuori, in addition to renting out his own properties in Lakeville and Burnsville, also heads a property management ser- vices company that handles other peo- ple's residential rental property. He's fmd- ing that a lot of people who can't sell their homes are deciding to rent them. "Real estate is not what it used to be," he said. High quantity, high demand New 2010 Census numbers show that rentals are making up more of the housing market. In several south -of -the -river cities, rentals make up 25 percent or more of the housing stock. Even so, most of the cities surveyed in Dakota County have rental vacancy rates below 5 percent. Burnsville and Apple Val- ley have the lowest average vacancy rates: Only about 2 percent of rentals in those cit- ies are available. It's the lowest the vacancy rate has been since 2001, when it was a little more than 1 percent, said Sara Swenson, assistant di- rector of administration for the county's Community Development Agency. "It's a tighter rental market.... The de- mand is there," Swenson said. Rentals continues on AA6 ► JNE • WEDNESDAY, JULY 13, 2011 (SO) pare MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM hesota Landscape Arboretum offers summer day camps. -to-home experiences members love." IASSEN letum stays open shutdown µr favorite state park down due to the state mpasse, check out the 3ta Landscape Arbo- .1 Chanhassen instead: tate parks, the arbore- ugh a state entity oper- the University of Min- is not affected by the ltdown. dition to its ongoing , the arboretum is cur- osting "Northern Ex - the Lake Minnetonka Club's annual flower described as a celebra- ,,rrttistic and horticultur- Ience, with exhibits of rrangement, horticul- CC photography. how is open to the pub- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today .m. to 2 p.m. Thursday. ke information, go to eminnetonkagarden more on arboretum check out its website warboretum.umn.edu 52-443-1400. ILLE bets `excellent' t on finances city of Lakeville has re - an excellent financial. or 2010, but it did have two internal control issues cit- ed by its auditor. The City Council received the report last week from the MMKR public accountants firm. The report found the city complied with all state laws and regulations. "Overall, we found the city's financial re- cords to be in excellent condi- tion," the report said. The two material weak- nesses involved lack of ade- quate oversight in the payroll department and an inadver- tent error in the city Liquor Fund that an employee report- ed to the auditors. Auditor Bill Lauer told coun- cil members that about half of the 36 cities his firm audits have material weaknesses cit- ed in their reports, according to city Finance Director Den- nis Feller. No abuses or malfeasance occurred in either situation, Feller noted. FARMINGTON Scandinavian fete planned next week A Scandinavian Midsum- mer Celebration will be held Tuesday evening in Farming- ton. Scandinavian folk artist Ross Sutter will perform, fol- lowed by a traditional Scandi- navian meal. People who speak Scandinavian languages are in- vited to share a story, prayer or poem. The event will begin at 5 p.m. at Rambling River Center, g and responsible use 2ology 'e $200 prizes will be d for the best You- rideos posted by Aug. contest details, go to :artribune.com/a540. ST. PAUL-MENDOTA ;TS-EAGAN tax increase )sed for schools rs in the West St. Paul- 325 Oak St. Proceeds will bene- fit the center. Call 651-280-6970 for more information. EAGAN Cancer fundraiser starts on Friday A cancer survivor from Eagan who organizers say demonstrates the importance of self -advocacy was chosen as the official ambassador for Fri- day's Relay For Life fundraiser at Central Park. Karen Roberts, who is cel- ebrating her 10th year free of cancer, was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 40, but only after several doctor visits turned up nothing out of the ordinary. Only by insisting on further tests was Roberts diag- nosed, according to Eagan Re- lay For Life organizers. Her message: `Be your own advocate," she said. "Listen to your body, trust your gut, and demand what you deserve." The Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society's signature fundraising event, starts Friday evening and con- tinues all night into Saturday morning. Participants who have gathered sponsorships walk around a track, and can- dles dedicated to cancer vic- tims and survivors decorate the field. Eagan's event had 407 participants signed up as of last week, with more than $31,000 raised. For more informa- tion, see wwwrelayforlife.org/ eagammn or call 612-308-8801. Live/silent auction planned for July 31 Another fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, this time a live and silent auction, is set for July 31 at the Green Mill in Eagan. The auction begins at 1:30 p.m. and items include restau- rant gift certificates, golf pack- ages, tattoos, original art work, outdoor furniture, a "Wall of Wine" and "Wall of Beer," and more., The restaurant is at 1490 Rahncliff Court. KATIE HUMPHREY, JIM ADAMS and DYLAN BELDEN isting local taxes, the district would be levying $1,589 per pupil in operating funds if the tax increase is approved. Homeowners would see a tax increase of about $34 per $100,000 of home value. The school board approved a resolution to hold the refer- endum in a 6-1 vote last month, with member Pat Barnum dis- senting. A similar ballot question failed last fall, with 53 percent of voters opposed. munities. • Adam Bailey, class of 1994, a St. Paul police officer twice honored with the Medal of Valor. • John Bergman, class of 1965, who was a lieutenant gen- eral in the U.S. Marine Corps when he retired in 2009. • Tom Osiecki, a longtime hockey coach who started the Burnsville High boys' program as well as the women's pro- gram at St. Olaf College. • Amy Stromwall, a 1989 south: S T A R T R I B U N E. C O M/ L O C A L CONTACT THE STAFF Team leader • Dylan Belden 952-882-4938 dbelden@startribune.com Scott County • David Peterson 952-882-9023 dapeterson@startribune.com Dakota County • Katie Humphrey 952-882-9056 katie.humphrey@startribune.com Schools • Sarah Lemagie 952-882-9016 slemagie@startribune.com Dakota County courts • Joy Powell 952-882-9017 jpowell@startribune.com Northeastern Dakota County • Nicole Norfleet 952-707-9995 nicole.norfleet@startribune.com Northwestern Dakota County • Heron Marquez 952-707-9994; hme@startribune.com Southern Dakota County • Jim Adams 952-707-9996 jadams@startribune.com South prep sports Reporter • Brian Stensaas 612-673-4127 bstensaas@startribune.com CORRECTIONS The Star Tribune is committed to correcting errors that appear in the newspaper or online. Concerns about accuracy can be directed to corrections@startribune.com. You may also call 612-673-4414, week- days between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and ask to be connected to the appropriate department. blotter EAGAN JULY 6 Burglary. A 48-year-old Burnsville man was arrested for burglary. I4ASTINGS JULY 6 Assault. A 51-year-old Hastings man was arrested for assault with a danger- ous weapon. JORDAN JULY 6 Property damage. Some hit-and-run damage to a vehicle parked in a lot was reported in the 2000 block of Lake View Drive. Burglary. Money was reported stolen from a residence in the 21700 block of Langford Avenue. LAKEVILLE JULY 6 Pornography. A 36-year-old Lakeville man was arrested for possession and dissemination of pornography. NEW PRAGUE JUNE 30 Theft. Newspapers were reported stolen in the 25100 block of Vergus Avenue. PRIOR LAKE JUNE 30 Property damage. The driver's side window of a vehicle was spray -paint- ed by vandals while the vehicle was parked in a driveway in the 5600 NE. Birchwood Avenue. JULY 1 Theft from vehicle. The front license plate was reported stolen from a ve- hicle in the 7700 block of Prairie Grass DAKOTA HELPFUL NUMBERS Advertising • Mike Maslow 612-673-4106 mmaslow@startribune.com Star Tribune Fax • 612-677-4359 Delivery questions • 612-673-4343 WRITE TO US We welcome letters to the edi- tor and guest columns. If possible, please make your submissions by e-mail to opinion@startribune. com. Our conventional mail ad- dress is Star Tribune South, 425 Portland Av., Minneapolis, MN 55488. Our fax number is 612-673- 4359. Submissions must be exclu- sive to us in Minnesota. All must include the writer's name, ad- dress, occupation and telephone numbers (work and home). Let- ters and guest columns become the property of the Star Tribune and may be republished in any format. Because of the volume of mail, we may not print everything we receive and we cannot return manuscripts or other material. was parked at Checker Auto Parts, 3930 Egan Drive. JUNE 28 Soliciting. Several arrests were made for soliciting door-to-door without a permit: An Ohio man was arrested in the 12600 block of Joppa Avenue S., a 19-year-old Laporte, Ind., man was ar- rested in the 13300 block of Lynn Ave- nue S., a 19-year-old Waldorf, Md., man was arrested in the 4000 block of 137th Street W., and a 20-year-old man from Bettendorf, Iowa, was arrested in the 4900 block of Credit River Drive. JUNE 29 Theft. Tires and rims valued at $560 were stolen from a vehicle parked at Master Electric Co., 12467 Boone Av. Theft. A homemade trailer valued at $1,000 was stolen from Warwick Indus- trial, 8204 W. 125th St. JULY 1 Theft. A Savage resident reported the theft of items valued at $1,400 from his attached garage in the 5100 block of W. Hidden Valley Drive. Burglary. A Savage resident report- ed the theft of items valued at $20,000 from his storage locker in the 4000 block of W. Hwy. 13. SHAKOPEE JUNE 29 Trespassing. Two 21-year-old Plym- outh men were cited for trespassing at Valleyfair. JULY 4 Assault. A 29-year-old Minneapolis man was arrested for assault at Valleyfair. JULY 5 Theft. A bicycle was reported stolen in the 1100 block of Atwood Court. SPRING LAKE AA6 • SOUTH EXTRA • STAR TRIBUNE • WEDNESDAY, JULY 13, 2011 (SO) JIM GEHRZ • jgehrz@startribune.com The available vacancy rate of rental property in Dakota County was 6.9 percent in 2010, compared to 3.4 percent this year, the lowest rate since 2001. Holly Graner, above in her new rental townhouse in Eagan, said she likes renting so she doesn't "feel tied down to a specific area." South -metro renters find fewer vacancies RENTALS FROM AA1 One of the reasons for the decrease in available rentals is because some of the rent- ers who were doubling up on renting in the past few years may feel financially secure enough to be able to rent on their own, Swenson said. Another reason is that due to the still -faltering econo- my, more and more one-time homeowners are turning into renters, she said. In the annual survey, the high demand for rentals was also attributed to employment changes and homes going into foreclosure. Rents are likely to rise While rental prices have been stable, Swenson said she anticipates that prices will be- gin to rise next year. Gwen Millard, communi- ty manager for the Woods of Burnsville apartments, said that some potential renters will be surprised at how much rents already have gone up. "I think with the way the economy is right now, I do believe there is some sticker shock for renters," she said. The average rent at Mil - lard's 400-unit apartment complex has increased $150- plus in the past nine months, she said. With managers no longer having to offer incentives to draw renters, rental prices are now basically in line with how much units are actually worth, Millard said. For people like Holly Gra- ner, who moved into a rental townhouse in Eagan in mid - April after renting an apart- ment in Inver Grove Heights, renting is fast becoming a way of life. "I like renting because then I don't feel tied down to a spe- cific area for a long period of time." Nicole Norfleet • 612-673.4495 (< I THINK A HIGHER RATE OF RENTING IS A NEW NORM, AND IT WILL BE THAT WAY FOR A WHILE. Steve Rajavuori, who is renting out a house in Lakeville (SO) WEDNESDAY, JULY 13, 2011 • STAR TRIBUNE • SOUTH EXTRA • AA5 high -profile," he said. "People need some education.... They don't always understand what the concept is." He may have a tough audi- ence. Hovland questioned the presence of milkweed in the lair, garden and wondered if it was a noxious weed (milk- weed is native to Minnesota and is a primary host for mon- arch butterfly larvae). Council Member Josh ►prague called the native area ong the sidewalks "embar- assing." In an e-mail to con- tituents, Sprague said "ef- orts at austerity in this case ay have led to some very bad esthetics. ... Somewhere be- een high -maintenance sod d low -maintenance 'scrub,' ere seems to be room for ost-effective, ornamental, na- ive perennials that will better ompliment the building and e more representative of its uality." Edina has had a previous lash between sustainable lantings and community ex- ectations, and the natives ost. A roughly four -acre area ordered by walking trails in e Promenade near Centen- 'al Lakes Park was planted ith no -mow grasses a few ears ago. The city began owing the area regularly ast year after bluegrass crept to the native plantings, grew all and residents objected to e appearance. "We discovered it was bet- er just to mow it," said Park anager Tom Shirley. Lasch said if the city is pa- ient with the public works ite, it will be rewarded. "I think in a couple of years, is going to look pretty darn antastic with the rain garden," e said. 'Around the building, is going to fill in. "It's never going to look ike turf grass, it's a bit clump- er than that. But there won't e bare ground anymore." ary Jane Smetanka • 612-673-7380 Jordan crematory ordered to close 41 CREMATORY FROM AA1 "Obviously, we're extremely pleased," said Christa Olds - berg, one of the plaintiffs in the suit against the city. "It's been a very long and stressful year." The crematory has been a source of ongoing debate and controversy in the community since last summer, when it was first proposed and brought be- fore the City Council. Opponents worried about its smell, the release of what they consider dangerous heavy metals during the cremation process, and the fact that it is across the street from a day care center. They also claimed that the permit it was granted was il- legal because it constituted a new business at the site and not just an extension of the funeral home operation. What's next? The ruling by Scott County Judge Diane Hanson means the city must decide what to do next. The City Council majority that approved the crematory said they believed that it was simply an extension of the fu- neral home business, and thus should be allowed under cur- rent zoning. But the judge disagreed, rul- ing that the crematory is fun- damentally a new business and should not have been given a conditional use permit. Jordan Mayor Pete Ewals, who opposed the crematory location, said current zoning laws do not allow for a crema- tory in that downtown area. Ewals said he is not sure what the city or the funeral home will do. He said the city cannot change the zoning laws now to accommodate the cre- matory because it would be considered spot zoning, which he said is illegal. "I guess I'm not surprised" at the ruling, Ewals said. "When I looked at what we had done, I thought we blew it." A city divided The issue not only has divid- ed the town, it also has divided the City Council, and the cre- matory became a regular topic on the council agenda, even when there was nothing for- mal to discuss. The rancor only increased in the spring when the funeral home began operating the cre- matory. Opponents wrote let- ters to the editor of a local newspaper, picketed at the es- tablishment and called police to complain about the noise and the smell. Things got so heated, and so many calls were lodged against the crematory, that police took the unusual step of no longer responding to calls complain- ing about the funeral home. Instead, Police Chief Rob- ert Malz advised residents that complaints would only be tak- en in writing. Residents had the option of dropping off their complaints at the police de- partment or mailing them in. "The reports of noise, smells, sickness and picket- ers have been well document- ed," Malz said in a letter to residents. "A point has been reached where it is fruitless for the police department to con- tinue to expend resources ad- dressing repeat complaints." Her6n Marquez • 952-707-9994 World -Class Golf At A Really Affordable Price PI K D $11.99 from Aug. 14-Aug. 27 DVD 005461915 Reg.$14.99 WITIl PRE-►?ua Oil I'UI?C IIISE THOUGH nU6. IV Girl Power! Triple Feature DVD 005326200 Reg. $14.99 YOUR PURCt1ASE OF $20 OR MORE VALID AUG. 5 -13, 2011 $20 pre-tax.Valid at the Twin Cities LifeWay Christian Stores only. One coupon per customer. Coupon mustbe presented and relinquished at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other discounts, including coupons, Savings Cards, Bonus Bucks, and LifeWay Rewards. Available on in -stock items only. Cannot be applied to the following: myMedia BurnBar CDs, gift cards, church supplies and programs, NAMB, WMU, lifeWay-branded products, Living Proof Ministries, Bargain Buys, prior purchases, Willow Tree' products, LOGOs & Bi bleWorks Software, Specialty Imprints, textbooks, robes, pre -sell offers, and homeschool products. Eagan man rescued by passerby after nearly drowning in Fish Lake by Jessica Harper THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A Eagan man was saved by a few Good Samaritans and local law enforcement Sunday night, July 31, af- ter he nearly drowned in an Eagan lake. According an Eagan po- i' lice report, 37-year-old Mu- hammad Irfan Javed, who did not know how to swim, jumped into Fish Lake to save his 2-year-old son, who had fallen in. Javed's 7-year-old daugh- ter saw her father struggle in the water and ran for help while her other brother stayed on shore. The girl ran up to 49-year-old Mark Halberg screaming that someone was drowning. Halberg followed her to the fishing pier where he saw the 2-year-old struggling in the water. As he jumped in and pulled the boy out, Hal - berg felt something brush against his leg in the water. It was Javed, who was unconscious at the bottom of the lake. Police estimate he was there for about two minutes. After putting the boy on shore, Halberg, of Burns- ville, returned to the water to retrieve the father. He pulled the man to the sur- face and began treading wa- ter until two paddle boats arrived a short time later. At some point in the cha- os a call was made to Eagan police who arrived at the scene at around 8:30 p.m. The boats' occupants, Nancy Durkee and Patrick Scanlon, both of Eagan, pulled Javed inside one boat and brought him to the pier where officers were waiting. The officers revived Ja- ved, who was transported by ambulance to Regions Hospital along with his 2-year-old son. "The key to making this a successful rescue was the act of the Good Samaritan who didn't hesitate to jump in the water," said Danielle Ansel- ment, spokeswoman for the Eagan Police Department. "Due to his actions, three little children have their fa- ther today." E-mail Jessica Harper at: jessica. harper@ecm-inc. com ttp 2.0 10 19114" COUtIT 35K Miles • White 2009 OPTIMA 49K Miles • Silver 2,998 2008' • CARAV 36 800 Miles • Black n887 2007 EIVEIHUNDRED 43,170 Miles • Red A/1 ENE - 2006 20410 AVENGER R/T 34,100 Miles • Silver 6)187 2.008 ACADIA AWO • 56,200 Miles • White ti4L,WC) 20,0)7 AVAI?ANCHE 65,500 Miles • Red $26,4 95 LUCERNE 2.00 201 CAMRV 38K Miles • Silver a49 2008 EQUINOX 4WD • 58,084 Miles • Black �Z9On. 7 PILOT 38,900 Miles • Silver 2005 98 F250 Super 4X4 • 78,573 Miles 34,417 Miles • Red Y 09.(Wiri) al 9,899 MU PRICE 2011 RAM SIT MSRP $35,350 - DISCOUNT -51,031 • RELATE-55,000 • LESSEE 41,000 4X4'+ LLEEASE'FOR 0 �i94" 39Mo. D1371111 , 20 &?v cREW GB MSRP S31,785 DISCOUNT -53,618 • REBATE -53,750 • LESSEE -$1,000 BONUS (ASH -$750 WALL PROM , P0' ULAR OUIPMENT! 'unit 210 Visit us on the web at jeffbelzer,com • email us at JeffBelzer@aol.com JEFF BEILZER'S EFFI—yolJWk .'II 2500 1L13 COED $31;7,30 DOCOLN T 3b403 •RELATE-$2,500 • LESSEE -51, BONUS CASH -5750 *•m•s1t• 0137150 UC, AND TM EISNIN 12,000 MILES BAD CREDIT • NO CREDIT CAI KIA M • 2011 KIA RIO LX $15,499 Belzer Sale Price -S1,000 Mfg Rebate -'500 Active Military Rebate 13,9.99 wilt 2012 KIA Sf $22,820 Belzer Sale Price -$1,000 Mfg Rebate -'500 Loyalty or Comp. Bonus -'500 Active Military Rebate • • • oming together for National Night Out Photo by Jessica Harper Children climbed in and around a fire engine on the 4200 block of Sandstone Drive in Eagan on Aug. 2 during the city's annual National Night Out event. Members of the fire and police departments met with area block parties to teach safety and get to know ij TRH V-8, 4X4 ion WRAP IitUP E LDS arab 4069 FROM Z-01iSILVERA'DO L, II 00) TRAIIERIHG, 2011 WRAP FROM AUTO, CRUISE, 4X.2 z1Trn CRU' -E BLUETOOTH, CRUISE ./NI IT UP FROM 1171938 2011 2011 _SUBURBAK BENCH 2ND ROWS k us FROM .,.,J 51iiERADO LIT MALIBU RADIO, SPOILERR,4CYl .._.dJ FROM FROM *!AUTO, BEN( TR lAl ERIN 2011 CAMERA LI AUTO, 19' HEELS FROM 1131;9 2011 EQUINOX 2011 RAVERSE 2011 AVALANCHE 2A August 5, 2011 THISWEEK Eagan man faces felony charges for allegedly stealing from nonprofit by Jessica Harper 2009 and notified Eagan THISWEEKNEWSPAPERS police. An Eagan man faces Through their investi- felony charges for allegedly gation, officers found two stealing tens of thousands cash withdrawals — one of dollars from a Minne- exceeding $119,000 and the apolis ice skating club. otherthat couldgn$157, a000 John Paul Rodrigues, 58, c- was charged by the Dakota counted for. County Attorney's Office The majority of th on July 22 with two counts withdrawals awbraals were in Emadeagan at of felony theft. ea The criminal complaint Rodrigues' home. states the following: Forensic analysis deter Rodrigues had been em- mined that Rodrigues ha bezzling money from the transferred $57,570 directl skating club, which he had to his personal account. served as treasurer for the Rodrigues is expected t past four years. appear in court on Aug. 29 One of the club's board members discovered the E-mail Jessica Harper a missing funds in December jessica.harper@ecm-inc.con World Harvest Worship Cente n Young actors tackle a tale as old as time. See Thisweekend Page 10A An Thisweekend/1OA Public Notices/11A irview Ridges Eagan author recalls life on streets through novel by Jessica Harper would be a better avenue circumstances. THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS to distance herself from the "If life gets off track, As a teenager, Susan Niz story. they have to get back into wasn't preparing for the "It enabled me to make school and recover," she prom or college en- it authentic trance exams like others her age. Instead, the Eagan resident fo- cused on where her next meal would come from or where she would sleep at Susan Niz night. At age 16, Niz dropped one person but inspired by passion for writing. out of school and ran away several people I knew," she Niz began a degree in from her suburban home said. creative writing, but ulti- f Minne- Niz describes the main mately earned a master's in schooler. for the streets o apolis — an experience that character, Kara, as someone education. inspired her to write her re- who has good intentions Though she loves to cent novel, "Kara, Lost." but who bases her decisions write, it took years to gain The book, which is avail- on emotions — characteris- the confidence to recall her able at major book stores, tics that she, at one time in difficult ap st. s not until six years focuses on 16-year-old her life, shared. Kara, who too leaves her "I had the same mind -set ago that I was ready to tell home in the suburbs for the as Kara," she said. "I felt my story," she said. rough streets of Minneapo- what I had to do was run Upon writing the novel, lis during the early '90s. from the problem." Niz did not have an audi- Niz, 36, initially planned Niz said she struggled ence in mind, but she said to write a memoir about to find the resources she she believes the book is her personal experiences needed to stay on track aimed at adults. as a teenage runaway, but — resources other teens "The setting of Minne- ultimately decided fiction need to avoid the same apolis in the '90s, especially Uptown, will be appealing to them," she said. Writing has been Niz's since she first but still said. fiction," she said. This is exactly what Niz Though she took did herself. much creative lib- After spending several erty, Niz's personal years working one dead-end journey is still wo- job after another and strug- ven within the pag- gling to make ends meet, es. Niz earned her GED and "Any given charac- enrolled in the University ter is not based on of Minnesota to pursue her Although "Kara, Lost," is her first novel, it is not her first published work. While struggling to pub- lish the book, Niz wrote several short stories and a poem that were published in literary journals. Once establishing herself as a writer, she was able to sign on with a publisher who released the book in June. More information on Niz and her novel can be found at www.susanniz.com. E-mail Jessica Harper at.: passion ever essica.har er ecm-inc. com ctartef s'rihhlin8 as a pre- p 1111 AUGUST 5, 2011 VOLUME 32, NO. 23 www.thisweeklive.com Opinion/4A Announcements/5A toilow&-Ecti Sports/6A Classifieds/6A Having ea saves at Patients get R state-of-the-art cardiac care south of the by Stacey Ackerman SPECIAL TO THISWEEK Dakota County patients suffering from a cardiac arrest no longer have to be transported to Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina as they once did. Fairview Ridges Hos- pital in Burnsville, which opened a catheterization Crotchety old man takes center stage. See Thisweekend Page 7A Real Estate/12A Public Notices/14A Delta to vacate yet another Eagan site Atlanta -based airline plans to close its training facility on Lone Oak Point byJessica Harper THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Delta Airlines Inc. is making more cuts in Eagan, leaving the city with more real estate on the market. The Atlanta -based airline re- cently announced it will move its flight training jobs from Eagan to Atlanta, closing its fa- cility at 2600 Lone Oak Point. The company is already try- ing to unload the former North- west Airlines headquarters building in Eagan. The training facility nearby was built by Northwest Air- lines in the 1980s, and has about 279,000 square feet, accord- ing the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which currently owns the property. Although the building is technically owned by the MAC, Delta has the right to buy it back for $1 after paying off its outstanding loan to the MAC, said Patrick Hogan, spokesman for the MAC. Delta sold the building to the MAC in 1992 to secure a loan package while the industry was in a downturn. The deal includ- ed stipulations about employ- ment levels within the Twin Cit- ies. Delta representatives had not returned phone calls seek- ing comment as of press time Wednesday. The airline plans to pay off the loan and no longer be bound by the employment com- mitments for the Twin Cities area. The airline's balance is cur- rently $114.4 million and Delta must pay a 3 percent premium for paying early, Hogan said. MAC expects the loan will be paid off by early 2012, he said. Delta's net income was $593 million, which was generated by $31.8 billion in revenue, in 2010. The airline lost $10 billion in 2008 and 2009. Delta has not specified how many jobs will be transferred. See Delta, 13A 2A July 29, 2011 THISWEEK Eagan Families of autist Minnesota Autism Center to open school in Eagan by Jessica Harper THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Parents of autistic chil- dren will have one more op- tion for educating their chil- dren this fall. A new school specifically for children with autism is set to open Sept. 6 in the for- mer Tesseract school build- ing. "Our hope always is to re- turn students to mainstream schools but for some, that is not possible. This gives them another option," said Kathryn Marshall, director of the Minnesota Autism Center, a nonprofit organi- zation that will operate the school. The Minnetonka -based center has offered behav- ioral therapy services for the past 17 years to families who have children affected by Autism Spectrum Disor- der. "After a while, we saw a need to bring in the academ- ic component for school -age children," Marshall said. After offering a pilot program at its center in Woodbury, the nonprofit focused on creating a year- round school for children with autism. After searching through- out the Twin Cities for a site, officials became drawn to the former Tesseract build- ing at 3800 Tesseract Place. Exclusively for Seniors 55+ • 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments • Fitness Center • Library/Multimedia Room • Activity Program • Concierge Services • 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance Response • Indoor Heated Parking • Ida Marie Restaurant w/ Professional Private Chef • Community Room with Kitchen • Transportation "Iti shall sa thing fi Tess closed facing ruptcy. for stu throug founde ment d from a about closed. The serve st with a merses into ac Offi cided t becaus ten ha therap Call us today to sc tour. We'll include first 10 callers! 9 St. Paul Pioneer Press Thursday 6-23-2011 Eagan City to open new fire station Green Globes certification is a first in the U.S. By Jessica Fleming heleming@pioneerpress.com Eagan's new $8.1 million fire station might be attractive on the outside, but Fire Chief Mike Scott doesn't much care about that. "What we're excited about is what's on the inside," Scott said. That inside includes state - of -the art training facilities, dorm rooms for six on -site volunteer firefighters and plenty of room to store the many vehicles the department needs. Oh, and there's a fire pole. "It's amazing how much quicker it is to use a fire pole," Scott said. "Imagine a bunch of firefighters trying to hurry down the stairs." The Fire Safety Center, at Yankee Doodle Road and Wescott Woodlands, is the city's first two-story station, NEW FIRE STATION, 3B > twincities.com St. Pau St. Paul Woman cony One of five people who attacked 16-year-old autistic boy last year in Paul was convicted Wednesday of degree aggravated robbery and ki napping. The trial of Tiffany Clock, 22, Columbia Heights began Monday Ramsey County District Court. Se tencing is set for Aug. 4; state guid lines call for four years in prison. Clock was accused in a criminal co plaint of taking part while the gro followed the boy in the Sun Ray Foods store, lured him to a nearby p 1 Twin Cities named Weste Torch run marks June the bo Special ViewSc Pdation Agencies from across the has spe metro area will participate in in local, the 2011 Minnesota Law ernmen Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics on Friday. Officers in cities in Sher- burne, Ramsey, Anoka, Hen- nepin, Chisago and Washing- ton counties will pass the "Flame of Hope" torch at the end of each checkpoint. Par- ticipants in the final leg finish at the Special Olympics Min- nesota Summer Games at the Bierman Field Athletic Com- plex at the University of Min- nesota. The Summer Games are being held today through Sat- urday. The torch run raises aware- ness and funds for the Special Olympics through community participation, T-shirt sales and donations. In 2010, more than 600 Minnesota law enforcement officers through- out the state participated, helping raise more than $1.6 mullion. All are welcome to join the free event. Participants also can walk, bike or in -line skate. For information on when and w ere each lacy af�r4a «^ •�— NORT Scho budg The wood-0 has set budget next sc Schoo approve Tuesda The b about include build a nue is $112.2 year. The approve nearly includin and us' from th ance. rem • er t might need recession to get a true recovery conomy headed back into a recession? a past double -dip, the recessions of 1980 1-82, suggests we are due. That double- uggests the Federal Reserve should raise ates earlier and faster than you might 1980s experience points to some - le: We need a recession to get a e that time actually started in the then, policy makers feared infla- a recession. Scholars alleged ow to manage "creeping infla- it morphed into "galloping infla- toppable animal. economic textbook at the time, Paul Samuelson, claimed that all right as long as it stayed ent. John Kenneth Galbraith ion "a normal prospect." The at oil shocks, loose monetary deficits and labor strikes were tacles to grow past. 1970s, the inflation rate — mea- e Consumer -Price -Index value nsumers — crept above 5 per- eemed to want to stay there. serve Chairmen Arthur F. Burns Miller tightened interest rates contained less growth and more inflation than advertised. They also suspected that the Fed would always hesitate to raise rates out of fear of hurting growth. That suspicion was reinforced in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter signed the Hum- phrey -Hawkins Act, which mandated that the Federal Reserve strive for both full employ- ment and stable prices. Then in the summer of 1979, with the infla- tion rate exceeding 10 percent, Carter appoint- ed the inflation hawk Paul Volcker as Fed chairman. Whether Carter knew what he was doing is debated to this day. For weeks, Volcker worked hard to build consensus with- in the Fed for raising rates. He also summoned the Wall Street Journal's opinion edi- tors, Robert Bartley and George Melloan, to lunch in the dining room of the New York Federal Eventually, people became convinced that the U.S. was serious about inflation. eted ever higher ... It is past time for a deci- sive step to break that spiral, and Mr. Volck- er's package is the best hope we have." Volcker used his monetarist cover to tighten violently. Between summer 1979 and Decem- ber 1980, the prime rate rose to 21.5 percent from 12 percent. Why so high? To wring extra money out of the economy, certainly, but also to prove the Fed meant what it said. Volcker incurred the wrath of many. Homebuilders sent the Fed two -by- fours to symbolize the houses they were not building; car dealers sent in keys to unsold vehicles. "We were negotiating for a house when Mr. Volcker came along and knocked the struts from under us," a husband told the New York Times in 1980. In the second dip, which officially began in summer 1981 and ended late in 1982, unem- ployment rose past 10 percent. "That reces- sion resulted from the absolute necessity to kill inflation," George Mel - loan told me. The Fed didn't move the discount rate below 5 per- cent until the 1990s. Eventually, people became convinced that the U.S. was serious about inflation. And the lower interest rates that followed enabled millions of Americans to CONTINUED FROM 1B > New fire station which meant the pole was essential. The station also is more cen- trally located in its coverage area, or "beat." That means response times will be cut by as much as five minutes for some calls, putting it more in the range of the city's other stations, which average a 6-minute response. The station is the first in the United States to carry a Green Globes certification, some- thing city officials say didn't add much to the cost of the building. Environmentally friendly touches like using stained cement flooring instead of carpet or tile, both of which require toxic glue, are integral to the station. Ash trees cut down in antici- pation of the emerald ash borer's arrival in the city were recycled in the building, used 31 I, Fire Safety Center z Eagan's new $8.1 million Fire Safety Center is more centrally located and includes evidence storage for police and an emergency operations center. 4J M EAGAN 0 '4 Lone Oak Rd. ti ' 35E,` 'ax Fire Safety Center Yankee Doodle Rd. N 33 PIONEER PRESS for paneling and flooring in some areas. The station is heated and cooled with geothermal pumps. The heating, which costs more but will pay for itself in seven years, Scott said, also affords another lux- ury. Coils were laid under- ground in the truck bays, and �4 the heat from the coils will keep the pipes on the trucks from freezing. The training room walls slide around, creating differ- ent configurations for fire- fighters to practice in. Theater smoke fills the room, simulat- ing the reduced vision a fire- fighter would encounter on the job. With the lights down low, Scott said he can create "zero visibility" for trainees. There are windows out to the truck bay where firefighters can practice rescuing people with a ladder and a training staircase built with grates instead of solid material so water from a hose flows through to a drain on the bot- tom floor. Scott said he hopes to rent the training space to other departments eventually. For city history buffs, the city's first fire truck, Jenny, resides next to a replica of its first police squad car, Pete. Volunteers refurbished Jenny, purchased in 1965, down to new wooden benches for retirees to sit on during city parades. Former Fire Chief Ted Ringberg said the truck looks the best it has since the city bought it. "Retirees meet a couple times a month, and they still talk about days when they made runs on that truck," Ringberg said. "Sometimes you'd fall off, and often, you'd freeze your tush off." Jessica Fleming can be reached at 651-228-5435. IF YOU GO Fire Station 2's grand opening celebration and open house is at 5 p.m. today. Tours of the station, at 1001 Station Trail near the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Wescott Woodlands, will be conducted. Saturday, June 25 9am - 5pm Sunday, June 26 'lam - 5pm Eagan Festival Grounds 1 50 1 Central Parkway Eagan FREE ADMISSION Ftne Art • Art ArttvltieS for All Ages Entertainment • Food and Furl Ft1Si IVML VVVVW-eagar'1artfestIVal.or j Market Fest Dates and Hours: Wednesdays June 8— Sept. 28 4:00 pm —8:00 pm Closes at dusk in Sept. City of Cap Parks and Recreation Eagan's Central Park Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan www.cityofeagan.com/marketfest Come Play at Cascade Bay Waterpark Make a splash and save some cash at Cascade Bay —it's the largest outdoor municipal waterpark in the Upper Midwest. Admission starts at only $10 and is even lower for children and everyone after 4 pm! Don't forget to visit Captan's Course — our nine -hole miniature golf adventure. Cascade Bay Waterpark Roseville 651/631-2727) www.Rosevillememorialchapel.com Berglund, Earl R. Age 72, of 5t Paul On June 16, 2011 Complete notice Sunday. MUELLER-BIES 651-487-2550 Barany, Kate Professor emerita of physiology and biophysics at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Medicine, eminent scientist and beloved educa- tor, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2011 in St. Paul, MN. Kate is survived by her husband of nearly 62 yeors, Michael; her sons, George (Barbara) and Francis (Rachel), and grandchildren, Michael, Deborah, Isabelle, and Lilly. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kate 8ar6ny Ph.D. Award in Physiology and Biophysics as follows: checks for "UIF-Kate Barany Award" mailed to University of Illinois Foundation, 1305 W. Green Street, Urbana, IL 61801; to give online go to: https://www.uif. uillinois.edu/Gifts/StartGiving.aspx, s.edu/Gifts/StartGiving.aspx enter "UIF-Kate Barany Award #77122" in one of the boxes marked "other", then hit "continue" at bottom of page. 217-333-0675. htip://tinyurl.com/katebarany Bradshaw] feeanng Meantngfuf rveau That CtUbrate 1(e• www.bradshawfuneral.com 651-698-3878 running toget er again. 'e g... an. don't play by all the rules. A small memorial will be held at a later date. Roberts Family 651-464-4422 RobertsFamilyFH.com Diaz. Giuliana B. Our Sweet Angel April 4, 2011 - June 21, 2011 Survived by parents Daniel & Iselo; big brother, Danny; big sister Viviano; grandma, Delia; great -grandpa, Martin. Visitation 5-8 pm Friday, June 24, and also 1 hour prior to the Funeral Service at 11 am, Saturday June 25, both held at West Funeral Home (651-457-6200), 1051 South Robert St; WSP. Interment Resurrec- tion Cemetery. Joseph S. Klecatsky & Sons West Funeral Home www.klecatskys.com Doran, Patrick Robert Age 54 of White Bear Lake Passed Away June 18, 2011 Preceded in death by father, Robert and brother, Jim. Survived by chil- dren, Jeremy Doran of WBL Tammy (Drew) Petersen of Blaine and Jadelyn Longen of Woodbury; soul mate, Susie Matson; 5 grandchildren: Larissa, Chaise, Trinity, Ariel & Rosabella; also by mother, Marianne Doran (nee O'Hara) of WBL; siblings, Kathy Ross of Maplewood, Mike of WBL, John (LaVonne) of Oakdale, Mary Jo (John) Webber of Farming- ton and Tom (Molly) of Gem Lake; and many nieces & nephews. Visita- tion 4-8 PM Thursday, June 23rd at Mueller Lake Mortuary, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave. WBL and 1 hr prior to Mass at church. Mass of Christian Burial 11:30 AM Friday, June 24 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3878 Base ater, . er ana over o cats. Memorials preferred to Ramsey County Humane Society. MA�. HOLCOMB-HENRY BOOM-PURCELL www.hoicombhenryboom.com 651-646-2844 Groves, Helen Long-time Mankato resident. Entered her heavenly home after an extended illness on Tuesday, June 21 2011. Helen was born in Stewartville MN on March 20, 1929. She was hospi- talized at North Memorial Medical Center (Robbinsdale) at the time of her death. Prior to her illness, Helen was an active member of the Evangel- ical Covenant Church (now Crossview Covenant) in North Mankato and was employed by the Country Mercantile furniture and gift store for many years. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Raymond; parents, Frank and Martha Ernst; and sisters, Frances, Ruth, Gladys, and Ethel. She is survived by her children Lynne of Mankato, Greg (Jone) of Rochester, Torn of Mankato, and Monica of Arden Hills; grandsons, Jacob and Tyler; great-grandson, Jonathan; sister, Grace Scribner of New Harford, IA; several nieces and nephews and many friends. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, June 24 at Albin Chapel, 6855 Rowland Road, Eden Prairie. A celebration of Helen's faith and life will be held at First Covenant Church, 810 S. 7th St. Minnea••lis, MN on Saturday, June Wise Family �n Funeral & Cremation Services www.wisefamilyth.com -- (651) 437-3752 Mack Jr., Theodore Age 83 Of Forest Lake Died June 19, 2011. Pre- ceded in death by pa- rents; brothers, Frederick, William, Leo; sisters, Pearl Sunde, Marie Broska; infant child; and great granddaughter Joriann Magnuson. Survived by sons, Thomas, Steve (Kathleen); grandson Jake; sister-in-law Fran; brother-in- law Al Thron; many nieces and neph- ews; life-long friend, Myra Morello and family: her children, whom he was a father -figure to, Michel, Mike, Merrie (Tom); 6 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren. Ted was a US Air Force Veteran of the Korean Con- flict and was stationed in Japan for 18 months. Funeral Service 11:00 AM, Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive Forest Lake. Visitation 5-8 PM, Monday and one hour prior to service Tuesday at Mattson Funeral Home. Interment at Hazelwood Cemetery, Bayport, MN. MATTSON Forest Lake, Minnesota (651)464-3556 www.mattsonfuneralhome.com Eagran's Jul'4Ih Funfest to celebrate 'Hometown Heroes' New this year: Patriotic Day, wellness festival, Ferris wheel by Erin Johnson TH1SW EEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan's annual July 4th Funfest, now in its 45th year, will include old favor- ites and new features as it celebrates "Hometown He- roes." Missing this year will be the Miss Eagan ambassa- dor event, which typically kicks off the festival. The director of the program retired last year, said Cory Hilden, secretary of the Funfest Committee. "We're taking this year off and hopefully coming back in 2012 much stron- ger," she said. The event will instead begin Saturday, July 2, with a new Health and Wellness Event at the Community Center Pavilion from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Several fitness organiza- tions will be on hand to lead a marathon exercise event, with instructors and classes changing every 20 minutes for four hours. Classes will include Zumba, yoga, kick- JULY 4 SCHEDULE The following activities will be featured Monday, July 4: • Ambassador farewell reception: 8 to 9 a.m. • Parade: 10 a.m. from Yankee Doodle and Blue Cross roads to Community Center • Carnival and food vendors: Noon to midnight • Royal Brain Freeze Contest: 1 p.m. • Children's games: 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. • Texas Hold 'ern tournament: 6 to 10 p.m. • Concert with The Dweebs: 8:30 p.m. • Fireworks display: 10 p.m. All events take place at the Eagan Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Parkway, unless noted. For a complete listing of events, visit www.eaganfunfest.org. boxing, belly dancing and more. Children will get their own classes, from dancing to basketball. A variety of health and wellness exhibitors will of- fer information on topics such as nutrition and den- tal health, and participants can try the Xbox 360 with Kinect for a fun way to be active. The Red Cross Blood Mobile will also be at the event accepting donations. The Funfest Carnival See Funfest, 11A 1 v tLAI LII_JIL I VIIt.IG,�. One agent. I can help you save time & money. One agent for all your insurance needs saves time. And Allstate's multi -policy discounts are an easy way to save money. For affordable protection for your car, home, boat, motorcycle and more, call me first. Ed Scislow Jr., CPCU, CLU, ChFC (952) 894-8382 12904 Nicollet Ave. S. Burnsville edscislow@allstate.com Allstate You're in good hands. Auto Home Life Retirement Insurance and discounts subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Allstate Indemnity Company: Northbrook. Illinois ® 2010 Allstate Insurance Company. 4'e.2558468157B dill stand apart from the pack and attract more customers. "We've had a good re- sponse so far," he said. Morrison's career began 16 years ago at the Twin Cit- ies Hilton inns shortly after he graduated with a culinary degree from St. Paul Techni- cal College. As a pastry chef, he learned from a plethora of MobiI i Brand New N Gas Statior 50 OFF per gallon of gas on cash purchase r $3.00 1 For a Regular Car I I Wash with 10 gallon I of gas purchase Expires: 7-22-11 IL J 12020 county Ro, • ,11, 1-of year, and this year, with no competition from the Taste of Minnesota, it may be bigger than ever. "We're thinking we may see some influx from neigh- boring communities this year," she said. For more information, visit www eaganfunfest.org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Funfestifrom 1 A and food vendors will be open from 4 p.m. to mid- night and will feature a new LED -lighted Ferris wheel. "We're hoping it will be quite an attraction," Hilden said. The ever -popular Texas Hold'em tournament will be held from 6 to 10 p.m., and the evening will close with a concert featuring Rubber Soul from 8 p.m. to midnight. Sunday, July 3 has been designated "Patriotic Day" and will include speakers Anthony Caponi and Rich- ard Carroll, both World War II veterans and Eagan residents, as well as organi- zations that support mem- bers of the military from 1 to 5 p.m. The unveiling of the mili- tary statue, the final statue in Eagan's Tribute and Me- morial Plaza, will take place from 3 to 4 p.m. The Children's Funfest Bike Parade will begin at noon, and the carnival and food vendors will be open from noon to midnight. The Texas Hold'em tournament will be held from 6 to 10 p.m., and a concert featur- ing Joy Ride will be held from 8 p.m. to midnight. Monday, July 4 will fea- ture the annual Funfest Parade at 10 a.m., with the theme "Hometown He- roes." Eagan veterans have been invited to participate in the parade, and four of the seven grand marshals are military veterans: Tom Mullon, Will Converse, Caponi and Carroll. Other grand marshals include Battalion Chief Dave Diloia of the Eagan Fire Department, Sgt. Tom Schoenecker of the Eagan Police Department, and Rob Olson from Fox 9 News. Carnival and food ven- dors will again be open from noon to midnight, with the annual Royal Brain Freeze contest beginning at 1 p.m. and Children's Fun- fest Games from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. The Texas Hold'em tour- nament will be from 6 to 10 p.m., and a concert featur- ing The Dweebs will be held from 8:30 p.m. to midnight. The event will conclude with the fireworks display at lO p.m. Hilden said the Funfest event grows a little each $ 22,478,316 5 14,169,359 5 44,141,100 $ 102,288,139 096 Net Asaeb 165 531,519 242,052,825 407,584344 Total Liabilities and Net Assets E 185.347,462 S 262,054,861 S 447,402,323 Fib. Conduit Rung Total Total Internal Service Funds 5 3,682,513 5 11,236,259 8,318,628 - 2,180,228 243,978 50,648 5,83 38,222 - 16,967,586 43,796 2,452,900 541 328 707 33,933,975 11,615,614 19,523,858 381,571 82,731 108,554 1,638,054 316,678 421,236 30,671,764 42,701,091 5,893,025 49,365,931 47,009,351 81,539 595 STATEMENT OF NET ASSETS - PROPRIETARY FUNDS December 31, 2010 Aquatic Community Fiber Conduit Total Emma' Public Utilities Civic Arena Facility Cerra Ring Total Service Funds LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Current Liabilities Salaries and Benefits Payable 49,628 5 15,431 $ 1,120 5 25,058 $ - 5 91,237 $ - Accounts Payable 290919 36,014 4,064 25,205 - 356,202 14,192 Contracts Payable 514,049 242,110 9,800 - - 765,959 - AccruedlntereatPayable - 7,115 13,262 294,266 1,317 315,960 Due to Other Funds - 97,100 110,000 - 292,046 499,146 - Due toOther Governments 61,345 3,464 549 5,815 - 71,173 12,469 Other Liabilities -•- - - - 205,566 Bonds Payable - - 680,000 - 680,000 - Deferred Revenue 357,512 35,495 3,195 45,790 1,660 443,652 - Compensated Absences - - - - - - 1912,599 Total Covent Liabilities 1,273,453 436,729 141 990 1,076,134 295,023 3,223,329 2,144,826 Noncurrent Liabilities Customer Deposits 20,955 - - - - 20,955 - Net (PEE Payable 1,796 206 9 442 - 2,453 - Other Liabilities - - - - 14,100 Compensated Absences - - - - 1,450,233 Advances from Other Funds - 2,452,900 910,000 - - 3,362,900 - Bonds Payable, Net - - - 17,234,221 17,254,221 Total Noncurrent liabilities 22,751 2,453,106 910009 /7254,663 20,640,529 1,464,333 Total Liabilities 1,296,204 2,889,835 1,051999 18,330,797 295,023 23,863,858 3,609,159 Net Assets invested in Capital Assets, Net of Related Debt 169,770,298 5,734,346 3,870,755 3,590,012 352,588 183,317,999 Ranneted for. 10,407,172 7,636,002 6,058,313 2,723,599 2,438,461 732,619 (295,023) 9,610,617 8,006,455 57,565 222,924,782 8 006 455 352,588 $ 246,788,640 8 11,615,614 Ftbc Conduit Internal Service Rene Total Funds 5 - $ 11,668,604 8 8,012,931 4,577 75,592 - 15,436 B04.501 - 1,873,628 377,036 12,600 74,281 14906,257 8,012,931 3972,874 7,218,634 133,980 - 155,826 4972208 707,491 4,402,782 - 767 7,926 125 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, June 16, 2011— www.minnlocal.com etting fired u about new Fire Satety Center Y MATTNEW HANKEY • SUN NEWSPAPERS Eagan's new fire station will be able o respond to fire calls twice as fast as he old one, and now, city residents will e able to see the new station for them - elves. The Eagan Fire Safety Center and tation #2 will host its grand opening 5- p.m. Thursday, June 23, at the corner of Yankee Doodle and Wescott Road. The event is free to the public. Following speeches by the mayor, fire chaplain, and Fire Chief Mike Scott, groups will have the opportunity to tour the new facility. "It's a nice looking building on the outside, but really excites us is what's on the inside," Scott said. Stops on the tour will include train- ing rooms, the emergency operations center, apparatus bay, the administra- tion office and a video presentation on training areas that are difficult for large groups to tour. At the end of the tour, firefighters will conduct a training demonstration dealing with battling smoke and fire in a simulated firefight. For police and firefighter enthusi- asts, a restored fire engine, ladder truck, replica 1965 Ford station wagon police car and police hostage negotia- tor trailer will be on display. Thirty volunteer firefighters will use the new station. Six firefighters live on site as part of the stations' vol- unteer resident dorm program. In exchange for free rent, they must help maintain equipment on site and do odd jobs around the station. Nate Sjulstad of Eagan has been with the department since September 2010 and has been living on site since April. He hopes to see many residents came out to the grand opening and tour the new station. "It's a state of the art facility," Sjulstad said. "It's pretty much a muse- um." The city has downsized its number of stations from five to six with the completion of its latest station. The new station combined the old Station #2, on Lone Oak Road with the fire administration office, formerly located by city hall. The typical response time for a fire truck to reach an incident from the old Station #2 was more than 12 minutes, Scott said. The response time from In the Community, With the Community, For the Community other stations is roughly six minutes. Having a station with double the response times was unacceptable, Scott said. The station will also be the first "green globe" fire center in the coun- try, Scott said. The station will feature energy efficient appliances, recycled materials, and natural prairie land- scapes that will keep maintenance costs down at the station, Scott said. In addition, there are 64 geo-thermal wells under the parking lot, which cool and heat the facility. The new training facilities will allow for in-house training. One stair- way will serve as a built-in training fea- ture, with the ability flow water through the stairway. Additionally, smoke can be flowed in to train for bad visibility scenarios. The station was built with protruded and indented balconies, two common balconies found at Eagan residences. Firefighters will train for residential rescues from balconies on these built- in structures. The Eagan Fire Department is the second largest volunteer -staffed unit in the state behind Bloomington, Scott COMMUNITY NOTES said. Having a full-time department is always on option for the city, but it remains mostly a volunteer unit to save the city money. The city spent $8 million to build the new station, which became fully operational at the end of April. Sjulstad said Eagan residents should attend the grand opening to "see where their taxes go." "What we want to show the public is how functional the station is inside and how we can better serve them," Scott said of the new center. Across the street from the fire sta- tion is the Dakota Woodlands Homeless shelter. Theresa Henderson, education coordinator for the shelter, says she and the residents have been following the progress of the construction and plan to take a tour during the grand opening. "As soon as it opened, we knew we wanted to take a group over there," Henderson said. "We are highly antici- pating it." Conversely, Scott can't wait to show off the station to the public. "It's going to be a fun day," Scott said. "We're looking forward to it." New Yamaha Tyros 4 Workstation Keyboards • Extraordinary expressive and realistic sounds! • Powerful pro -quality accompaniments! • Professional 16-track recording studio! • USB/Computer comnatihla n the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.minnlocal.com-Thursday, June 16, 2011-Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 3 i.. Carison's Piano Worid's END CLOSEOUT SALE! •rr. Over 300 New & Used Pianos & Keyboards, Y All Discounted To The MAX! Digital Pianos We carry all the best brands Roland • Yamaha Kurzweil • More Includes piano, bench, headphones and starter pack $1 09500 Used Pianos Completely Overstocked with nice used Pianos! Dozens of models to choose from! Many Priced Below...$50000 imp Grand Pianos Huge selection of over 60 Grands in _stock to choose from! 6 Z€jed rya otee4f Baldwin • Yamaha Kawai • Young Chang Bechstein • Mason & / Hamlin & many More! :$4,99500 Used Grand Pianos Overstocked with great selection of Yamaha & Steinway Grand Pianos & Many others Console & Studio Pianos 1111 Dozens to select from. All sizes, all finishes Pzieed ate... �i $1,99595 Great Selection of Professional Studio Uprights Yamaha - Baldwin & Kawai Prices for NEW Studio Pianos 2 $7400 outh� COVERING THE SOUTHERN SUBURBS WWW.STARTRIBUNE.COM/LOCAL • SECTI 2010 CENSUS • SOUTH METRO RESULTS ELIZABETH FLORES • eflores@startribune.com Jerry and Dome Roehl recently moved into Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley, an independent and assisted living facility made up of modern rental apartments and luxury features such as a movie theater and spa. • Census figures show that rental housing as a share of the total is up in most cities south of the river. By NICOLE NORFLEET and DAVID PETERSON • Star Tribune staff writers or Marlene Dahlgren, 78, it was time to give up life in Fort Myers, Fla., give up the lovely intimacy of Twins spring training games, and return to Minnesota — "back where people are nice and non -confrontational, and the seasons change." For Floyd Skinner, 94, it was time to recognize that the era of driving won't last forever. It was time to give up the Apple Valley townhouse and start a new life within walking distance of the supermarkets and restaurants he enjoys, rather than have to start asking people for rides. The two of them and many others have re- cently begun new lives at the edge of down- town Apple Valley, in a 134-unit senior facil- ity whose ribbon -cutting took place late last week. Most seem to have travelled the arc from young -adult apartments to single-family homes to townhouses and finally into rent- ed units again. Home ownership may be the bedrock on which the suburbs were built, but that is changing as they age. In the southern suburbs, more and more residents are rent- ing instead of owning, according to 2010 Cen- sus numbers. The numbers illustrate what some city officials call an inevitable trend in the wake of housing and jobs crises and an ag- ing population growing weary of maintain- ing property. The rental rates for nearly all of the major Dakota County and Scott County cities in- creased during the last decade. In more than More census results for the south metro: AA5 a handful of cities, rentals now make up 25 percent or more of the housing market. "It certainly doesn't seem to be a Scott County thing, but something more univer- sal," said Shakopee Community Develop- ment Director Michael Leek. Shakopee saw an increase from 22 to per- cent a decade ago to 24 percent of its house- holds being rented. In several in- stances, townhouses originally in- tended to be owner occupied in- stead became rentals, which prob- ably spurred Shakopee's increase, Leek said. West St. Paul, which had the highest con- centration of rentals when the census was counted in 2000, still leads the pack with 43 percent rental, a slim percentage increase, but a trend the city is starting to be concerned about, especially as more single-family hous- es turn into rentals. Census continues on AA5 ► RENTALS West St. Paul Burnsville South St. Paul Inver Grove Heights Eagan Hastings Shakopee New Prague Jordan Belle Plaine Apple Valley Prior Lake Lakeville Savage Rosemount Farmington Mendota Hghts. Elko New Market 2010 43% 35% 31% 28% 27% 26% 24% 23% 20% 19% 19% 16% 13% 13% 13% 13% 11% 7% 2000 41% 32% 28% 23% 26% 23% 22% 24% 18% 22% 12% 13% 8% 9% 12% 13% 8% 4% MEDIAN AGE West St. Paul Inver Grove Heights Apple Valley Mendota Heights Prior Lake Hastings South St. Paul Eagan Burnsville Lakeville Rosemount Savage New Prague Belle Plaine Shakopee Jordan Farmington Elko New Market 39.7 38.4 37.9 37.8 37.8 37.5 36.9 36.8 35.9 34.8 34.7 34.6 32.7 32.5 32.2 31.8 31.6 30.4 are DAKOTA COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE to right: Captain Brad Jeska, Correctional Sergeant Deb Fyten, Inmate Outreach Coordina- Clary, Recreation Coordinator Loren Hanson, Barry Kleider, AmeriCorps Vista Worker Kelsey Counselor Hal Palmer and Correctional Lieutenant Lawrence Hart. PHOTO COURTESY OF NEUGER COMMUNICATIONS GROUP school youth from Bethel Lutheran Church's YES (Youth Energized to Serve) Team received state- ognition for their creative collection efforts. The team included, in the back row from left to athaniel Urke, Cindy Kreis (leader), Joe Kreis and Jordan Ett . In the front row are Hannah Lund - eft, and Hannah Mahr. ityofpriorlake.com. A COUNTY ehind Bars' recognition Detention Services Di - of the Dakota Coun- riff's Office has earned kudos, the statewide rant Program of the ard, for its work on the hind Bars" program. first year, the program Dakota County inmates e to acquire skills in sual art forms, includ- k on murals inside the e're very proud of this said Sheriff Dave Bel- 's not something you're find in every jail." Behind Bars effort ded by Dakota Coun- etropolitan Region- ouncil, the McKnight on and the Minnesota e. SCOTT COUNTY Nation's warriors get free admission The Scott County Histori- cal Society has become a Blue Star Museum, one of more than 1,300 across the country to offer free admission to all active -du- ty military personnel and their families this summer. The deal lasts from Memo- rial Day through Labor Day and is a partnership among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Fami- lies and the many museums. A list of the other museums can be found at www.arts.gov/ bluestarmuseums. For the Scott County facili- ty in Shakopee, the program co- incides with an exhibit called "Heroes Among Us: Veterans of World War II," which is on display through December. The historical society is lo- cated at 235 S. Fuller St. in Shakopee, and can be reached at 952-445-0378 or at info@sco ttcountyhistoryorg. For more on the museum and historical society, go to www scottcounty historyorg or t ugh Facebook search "Scott ty Historical Museum." NORTHFIELD Community beats food collection goal The Northfield community surpassed its FoodShare cam- paign goal by almost 15 percent for food and money collect- ed for the Community Action Center of Northfield. The local food shelf received $111,472 and 37,128 pounds of food. Among those involved were middle school youth at Bethel Lutheran Church, who won a state award for their cre- ative collection efforts. KATIE HUMPHREY, JIM ADAMS and DAVID PETERSON vage group will look at language K-5 programs south STARTRIBUN CONTACT THE STAFF Team leader • Dylan Belden 952-882-4938 dbelden agstartribune.com Scott County • David Peterson 952-882-9023 dapeterson@startri b u ne.com Dakota County • Katie Humphrey 952-882-9056 katie.humphrey@startribune.com Schools • Sarah Lemagie 952-882-9016 slemagie@startribune.com Dakota County courts • Joy Powell 952-882-9017 j p owel l®startri b u n e. com Northeastern Dakota County • Nicole Norfleet 952-707-9995 nicole.norfleet@startribune.com Northwestern Dakota County • Heron Marquez 952-707-9994; hme@startribune.com Southern Dakota County • Jim Adams 952-707-9996 jadams@startribune.com South prep sports Reporter • Brian Stensaas 612-673-4127 bstensaas@startribune.com CORRECTIONS The Star Tribune is committed to correcting errors that appear in the newspaper or online. Concerns about accuracy can be directed to corrections@startribune.com. You may also call 612-673-4414, week- days between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and ask to be connected to the appropriate department. E. C O M/ L O C A L Mpls. ,494. DAKOTA SCOT? CO. `I• CO tf UR RICE t:r3. . E HELPFUL NUMBERS Advertising • Mike Maslow 612-673-4106 mmaslow4startribune.com Star Tribune Fax • 612-677-4359 Delivery questions • 612-673-4343 WRITE TO US We welcome letters to the edi- tor and guest columns. If possible, please make your submissions by e-mail to opinion@startribune. com. Our conventional mail ad- dress is Star Tribune South, 425 Portland Av., Minneapolis, MN 55488. Our fax number is 612-673- 4359. Submissions must be exclu- sive to us in Minnesota. All must in- clude the writer's name, address, occupation and telephone num- bers (work and home). Letters and guest columns become the proper- ty of the Star Tribune and may be republished in any format. Because of the volume of mail, we may not print everything we receive and we cannot return manuscripts or oth- er material. police blotter l3Et I..I PLAINE MAY 16 Animal controL A cow and a calf were re- ported in the northbound lane of Johnson Memorial Hwy. and Belle Plaine Trail. ELKO NEW MARKET MAY 11 Littering. A resident of the 3000 block of Aaron Drive reported seeing some kids throwing a TV into a pond. FARIBAULT MAY 11 Fleeing police. A 28-year-old Faribault man was arrested for theft and fleeing a peace officer. LAKEVILLE MAY 10 Gas leak. A gas line was hit in the 23300 block of Ottawa Avenue. NEW PRAGUE MAY 13 Animal control. Two loose hogs were re- ported in the 25000 block of Vergus Ave- nue. PRIOR LAKE MAY 11 Drug activity. An 18-year-old Savage man was arrested for possession of hallucino- genic mushrooms after a traffic stop for a burned -out taillight near the intersec- tion of Mystic Lake Drive NW. and Wilds Parkway NW. MAY 12 Suspicious activity. People were report- ed to be removing items from a fore- closed home in the 16200 block of Creek - wood Road. MAY 13 Drug activity. A 28-year-old White Bear Lake man and a 21-year-old Virginia Beach, Va., woman were arrested for pos- session of methamphetamine at Mystic Lake Casino, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd. NW. MAY 15 Assault. A 51-year-old Prior Lake m was arrested in the 15200 block Howard Lake Road NW. for assault with dangerous weapon. MAY 16 Animal control. Loose horses were repo ed in the 3600 block of E. 220th Street. MAY 16 Suspicious activity. Two Prior Lake re' idents reported having their houses h with pink paintballs in the 5300 bloc of Carriage Hill Road NE. and the 138 block of Kensington Avenue NE. MAY 17 Fire. A fire was reported on the deck a residence in the 700 block of E. Mai Street. • SAVAGE MAY 4 Outstanding warrants. A 23-year-o St. Paul man was arrested on Eg Drive on three outstanding warrants Washington, Dakota and Ramsey cou ties after the car in which he was a pa senger was stopped for having expir license tabs. Theft. A Savage woman reported that h estranged husband took items valued about $1,700 from her home in the 146 block of Idaho Avenue S. MAY 5 DWI. A 36-year-old Rosemount wo an was arrested on W. Hwy. 13 for D speeding and having an open bottle in motor vehicle. MAY 7 Weapons violation. A man living in t 7800 block of W. 128th Street admitte shooting at geese in his yard, police sai He was advised to find another method dealing with geese. Items are selected from police repo and are not intended to provide a co prehensive picture of crime in a neig borhood or community. schools news BURNSVILLE- EAGAN-SAVAGE Student gets to throw Twins game first pitch A student with perfect at- tendance this year at Metcalf Junior High School has won the right to throw out the cer- emonial first pitch when the Minnesota Twins play the Los Angeles Angels on Friday. Eighth -grader Quinten Harpke won the honor in a drawing organized by the Min- nesota Middle School Associ- ation to reward students with good attendance, according to -Savage • principal Jim Murphy. Mu phy was also a finalist for th Jordan job, along with a thir candidate from Wisconsin. The Shakopee board vo ed to fire Murphy sever weeks after his former assi tant was charged with stealin more than $168,000 in scho funds. The board later droppe its attempt to fire the princi pal as part of a deal in whic he resigned instead. The Jordan board voted 5 0 to hire McNulty last week She has signed a two-year con tract with base pay of just ove $108,000 for the 2011-12 schoo year, according to Jordan Su • • ELIZABETH FLORES • eflores@startribune.com Dorrie Roehl, left, showed Dena Meyer some paintings that she and her husband Jerry had hung since moving into Ecumen Sea- sons, a senior facility in Apple Valley. CENSUS FROM AA1 "The bottom line is that we don't see rental proper- ties maintained as well. ... It starts to have this little bit of a ripple effect in the neigh- borhood," said Mayor John Zanmiller. West St. Paul officials are considering a policy that would limit the number of rentals per block. In Inver Grove Heights, the bump of five percentage points doesn't alarm Com- munity Development Direc- tor Tom Link. "It's not a significant in- crease," Link said. Yet the city's housing com- mittee, formed this year, may decide later to make rental regulations a priority, Link said. Inver Grove Heights doesn't have a rental regis- tration program, but it has been discussed by the city council in the past few years, Link said. Several cities already have rental registration programs, which require rental property owners to register their build- ings, as a way to keep track of rental growth. So census numbers may not come as a surprise. Still, the new information can alert cities to rental situa- tions that may fly under their radar, said Jane Vanderpoel, management analyst in Da- kota County's office of plan- ning and analysis. "What they don't want to know is that there are a bunch of single-family homes out there that are renting," Van- derpoel said. Unlike his northern coun- terparts, Mayor Todd Larson of Farmington said his city could use a few more rentals. Despite having the larg- est population surge in Da- kota County, Farmington's rental rate remained con- stant at about 13 percent in 2000 and 2010, according to census numbers. More rent- als would attract even more residents, Larson said. "There's a demand there," Larson said. "People have to go outside of the city in order to rent." Farmington numbers about 530 rental units. "If rental units are strate- gically placed within the city, it would help the retail busi- nesses also by putting bodies in those districts," he said. Apple Valley's rental rate increased the most of any city in the south metro, from 12 percent to 19 percent. "I don't see us as experi- encing a dramatic jump, and I consider 19 percent of one's housing stock being rental is actually relatively low," said Bruce Nordquist, the city's community development di- rector. "I know that condo associations often consider 20 percent of their units as rentals the maximum they al- low, so that might serve as a guide as to what's an appro- priate mix." He and other city officials were on hand Friday morning to help celebrate the opening of Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley, 15359 Founders Lane, a facility that feels like an upscale hotel and includes a creative arts studio, movie theater, guest suite and three dining options: "a casual cafe, restaurant -style dining and a private dining room." Mayor Mary Hammon -Roland said she's eaten there more than once, and "it's one of the best places in town to eat, with a wonderful chef." Betty Dunn, 89, landed there after getting ill last fall and ending up at her daugh- ter's place. She'd gone from living on acreage with her husband in Rosemount, to a townhouse, and the illness "made me realize this is the time. "The main thing I told the kids was 'location location location,— she said. "I want to be near the senior center, near the places I've always shopped, and I want to still see my friends — it comes to a point where people stop driving and unless you're close, you won't see them any more." Nicole Norfleet • 612-673-4495 David Peterson • 952-882-9023 (SO) WEDNESDAY, MAY 25, 2011 • STAR TRIBUNE • SOUTH EXTRA • AA5 Census finds difference and_similarity To set the demographics of Dakota and Scott county cities alongside one another is to see a panorama of vital signs. An inner -ring spot such as West St Paul differs little, in some key respects, from the two big central cities. Minutes away by car, meanwhile, the demographics of exurbs in the countryside resemble Faribault or Albert Lea or just about any outstate town. To track most communities over time, however, is to see a growing similarity: Older, more diverse, more likely to rent and to be living alone. The indicators published today are based on just the first two big bursts of 2010 Census data, in March and May; more fine-grained detail will be released later this year on subjects such as same -sex couples and specific ethnic backgrounds. LIVING ALONE Percentage of all households West St. Paul South St. Paul Hastings Burnsville Inver Grove Heights Eagan New Prague Apple Valley Mendota Heights Belle Plaine Prior Lake Shakopee Jordan Farmington Rosemount Savage Lakeville Elko New Market VACANT HOMES AND APARTMENTS 38% West St. Paul 30% Burnsville 28% Belle Plaine 28% South St. Paul 26% Hastings 26% New Prague 25% Mendota Heights 24% Prior Lake 22% Farmington 22% Jordan 21% Elko New Market 20% Eagan 18% Shakopee 18% Inver Grove Heights 17% Lakeville 15% Apple Valley Rosemount 9% Savage 14% MARRIED COUPLES Percentage of all households Lakeville 68% Savage Rosemount Mendota Heights Farmington Prior Lake Jordan Shakopee Belle Plaine Apple Valley New Prague Eagan Inver Grove Heights Hastings Burnsville South St. Paul West St. Paul 66% 65% 64% 63% 61% 60% 57% 57% 57% 56% 54% 51% 50% 48% 42% 39% 7% 6% 6% 6% 5% 5% 5% YOUNGEST Percentage of persons under 18 Elko New Market 38% Jordan 34% Farmington Lakeville New Prague Savage Rosemount 5% Shakopee 5% Belle Plaine 5% Prior Lake 5% Eagan 4% Apple Valley 4% Hastings 4% Inver Grove Heights 4% Burnsville 4% South St. Paul 3% Mendota Heights 3% West St. Paul MINORITIES 2010 West St. Paul 30% Burnsville 26% Shakopee 26% Eagan 21% South St. Paul 20% Savage 19% Apple Valley 19% I.G. Heights 19% Rosemount 15% Lakeville 13% Farmington 12% Jordan 11% Prior Lake 10% Elko N.M. 9% Mendota H. 8% Hastings 7% Belle Plaine 7% New Prague 5% 2000 17% 14% 10% 13% 10% 10% 9% 10% 9% 7% 6% 9% 6% 2% 5% 3% 3% 2% 1990 7% 6% 3% 7% 4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 3% 2% 2% 3% 1% 3% 2% 1% 1% 33% 32% 32% 31% 31% 30% 30% 29% 25% 25% 25% 24% 24% 24% 23% 22% HISPANICS West St. Paul South St. Paul Inver Grove Heights Burnsville Shakopee Jordan Apple Valley Eagan Farmington Lakeville Savage Rosemount Mendota Heights Hastings Belle Plaine Prior Lake New Prague Elko New Market OLDEST Percentage of persons 65 plus Mendota Heights 18% West. St. Paul 17% Hastings 14% New Prague 12% South St. Paul 12% Inver Grove Heights 12% Burnsville 12% Belle Plaine 11% Apple Valley 10% Prior Lake 9% Rosemount 8% Eagan 8% Shakopee 7% Jordan 6% Lakeville 6% Farmington 6% Savage Elko New Market 3% 5% ASIANS 19% Shakopee 12% Savage 9% Eagan 8% Rosemount 8% Apple Valley 6% Burnsville 5% Lakeville 5% Farmington 4% Inver Grove Heights 3% Prior Lake 3% Elko New Market 3% Mendota Heights 3% West St. Paul 3% Belle Plaine 2% Jordan 2% South St. Paul 2% Hastings 2% New Prague 10% 8% 8% 6% 5% 5% 4% 4% 3% 3% 3% 2% 2% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% AA6 • SOUTH EXTRA • STAR TRIBUNE • WEDNESDAY, MAY 25, 2011 (SO) Audibel Hearing Centers LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED Limited Time Only! START cic $999! Special Pricing Expires 5/31/11 i MAY IS TE BETR HEARING MONTH • 60 Day 100% Money Back Guarantee • BCBS & UCare Provider Audibel Hearing Center 14135 Cedar Ave. South • Apple Valley, MN 55124 (800) 861-7502 www.audibelhearingmn.com Additional locations: Shakopee • Owatonna • New Ulm Fairmont • Windom • Mankato • Faribault • St.James 115 AUDIBEL. People Connecting People Tom Hanunrich H.I.S. chamber of chamber of commerce Burnsvi e Withthe state's largest newsroom, we're bringing you the stories and the coverage you need to stay informed and connected, The Burnsville Chamber of Commerce has an exciting year planned! Offering programs that fit many demographics, the Chamber has something for everyone! &k,fTbLtvL /1/tt, Job cuts loom at firms with state work • As a state government shutdown deadline nears, contractors ponder immediate layoffs. By DEE DEPASS and DAVID PHELPS Star Tribune staff writers As a possible state shutdown creeps closer, hundreds of companies that re- ly on government contracts are prepar- ing pink slips, shifting workloads, delay- ing projects and rescheduling less criti- cal work. Highways, bridges and other con- struction projects are in jeopardy, as are the jobs of workers hired for them. SRF Consulting, a Plymouth highway engineering firm that has a 30-year his- tory with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, said it will furlough 120 of its 200 employees if the state govern- ment shuts down July 1 and cuts off its contracts. Gov. Mark Dayton and Republicans who control the Legislature remain locked in disagreement over how to solve the state's $5 billion budget short- fall. On Wednesday, Dayton announced a shutdown plan that would affect a wide array of government services and spend- ing. A judge will review which services should continue during a shutdown. Minnesota pays about $2.5 billion a year to contractors who design roads and bridges, keep computer systems running and supply a wide array of ser- vices from health care to tourism promo- tion. About 1,600 businesses and nearly 3,900 small and individual contractors Shutdown conti uses on A6 ► JEFF WHEELER • jeff.wheeler@startribune.com 4 shutdown of Minnesota's government would seriously affect businesses like SRF Consulting in Plymouth, which plans and oversees road construction projects. Environmental planners Cynthia Warzecha, left, and Kelcie Young were busy at their desks earlier this week. cicfl+ re--)ct'�e. Shutdown anxiety for contractors 4 SHUTDOWN Al work for the state, but their services may not make the cut as essential. Another $900 million is slat- ed this year for road projects — many now threatened by a shutdown. That worries companies like SRF, which has three- and five- year state contracts worth $ll million. SRF currently is work- ing on an interchange project at Dresbach, Minn., on Inter- state 90 along the Mississip- pi River. "MnDot usually is our big- gest client. And in this econ- omy we don't have [extra] work just sitting around," said SRF Chief Executive Randall Geerdes. "State employees are going to be in a lot of trouble but no one talks about what will happen to the private sec- tor.... I am not optimistic." A question of survival Small companies may have the toughest time if they rely heavily on government work. "Larger companies with deep enough pockets will get through this," said Mel Gray, a professor of business eco- nomics at the University of St. Thomas. "It's the small busi- nesses, minority -owned and women -owned that will be see- ing some distress. When things go sour, they can go sour big- time." Minnesota's 10-day govern- ment shutdown in 2005 was so brief that many contractors, agencies and even some state departments just kept working, in some cases getting paid ret- roactively. This time around, amid a tough economy and STATE CONTRACTS Many businesses working for the state could be af- fectedby a shutdown. • $ 2.5 billion a year for con- tracted services by 1,600 businesses and nearly 3,900 small and individual contractors. • $900 million in road and bridge construction proj- ects this year. worries that a shutdown could drag on longer, such steps car- ry greater risk. Geerdes said SRF avoided layoffs in 2005 by shifting em- ployees to other projects, "but we lost a lot of money in that 10-day span." Eagan -based Intertech Inc. is developing software to link prisoner computer records to_police squad cars, fails and courts. That contract employs 10 of Intertech's 55 workers. While none will be let go if there's a shutdown, that doesn't mean "we would just sit on our thumbs and wait for the gov- ernment," said Intertech prin- cipal Ryan McCabe. The com- pany would draw on lines of credit and focus on nongov- ernment work to "weather the storm," he said. If a shutdown were to be lengthy, he'd permanently re- assign workers to other con- tracts, leaving the state with- out a key developer. "That's a downside for the state. But at some point you have to say, 'How long are we willing to wait?' ... A four -week shutdown could cost us may- be tens of thousands of dol- star Tribune_, lays. M ybe even closer to six res," McCabe said. "That could sink a company if [the state] is their only client." Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester has a five-year, $8.2 million state contract to screen newborns for illnesses. Spokesman Karl Oestreich said he's unsure how the shutdown will affect Mayo but said that in the past the state deemed the tests essential and they nev- er stopped. Dayton has rec- ommended that such services continue. At Minneapolis advertising agency Colle+McVoy, a shut- down would halt a three-week radio campaign for Explore Minnesota, the state's tourism agency. Work on a fall tourism campaign also would stop. "They play an extremely im- portant role for state tourism," said Explore Minnesota's Joan Hummel. "If there is no budget, we will no longer be able to pay our vendors." Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie warned Thursday that a shutdown would force his office to close, and no new business entities could be created as long as the impasse lasts. Farmers need- ing crop and livestock loans would have no access to the state's central notification sys- tem, he said. A shutdown probably wouldn't cripple Minnesota's economy, but it would hit one sector — the construction in- dustry — particularly hard. Government services repre- sent less than 10 percent of the state's gross domestic product, said Toby Madden, a regional economist for the Federal Re- serve Bank of Minneapolis. "So if the shutdown is on- ly for a little while, it will not be a huge impact on the state's economy, but it is still an ad- verse impact," Madden said. "In fact, it's already had an im- pact because of the uncertain- ty and distraction." Construction firms say a shutdown would hit them at the worst time because of Min- nesota's notoriously short con- struction season. "The work of construction projects slated to be complet- ed before winter might flip into the next construction season," said Patrick Lee -O'Halloran, past president of the Minneso- ta Construction Association. Ravi Norman, CEO of Thor Construction in Columbia Heights, is worried about $7.5 million worth of light rail work slated to begin next week. Thor is installing tracks and working at intersections. It has up to 50 workers de- pending on the light rail work. If a shutdown stalls the proj- ect, there isn't another con- struction job waiting, Nor- man said. "This would impact them," he said. "There's a huge cost to this," said Dave Semerad, chief ex- ecutive of Associated Gener- al Contractors of Minneso- ta. "You have the cost of de- mobilizing a project if there is a shutdown, and you have to secure the equipment. Then there is a cost to remobilize.... It's a shame." Staff writer Marissa Evans contributed to this report. dee.depass®startribune.com • 612-673- 7725 david.phelps@starribune.com • 612- 673.7269 $un 2urren4- &A/i i Market Fest: sprouting soon in Eagan park BY MATTHEW HANKEY • SUN NEWSPAPERS If you grow it, they will come. The Eagan Market Fest started five years ago with about 15 vendors. Since then, the market has grown to allow nearly 60 vendors of wide-ranging varieties sell their prod- ucts. The annual market begins this year 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 8 and occurs each Wednesday through Sept. 28 at the Eagan Festival Grounds at Central Park, 1501 Central Parkway. Traditional farm food producers, pastry makers, iced tea and ice cream. vendors, and craft makers can be found at the mar- ket in this year. The market will also host vendors selling hand- made soaps and hand - painted garden stepping- stones. Thomas Ruhland of Eagan has been a vendor at the market since its first year in 2007. The chief strudel maker for Ruhland's Strudel Haus, he says this is one of the most unique markets of the seven he will vend this year "It's family -focused," Ruhland said. "That's what I like about this farmer's market. Eagan is our favorite." Ruhland is one of sev- eral vendors providing concessions -style snack and dinner options - a new feature at the market this year. Ruhland's Strudel Haus will be sell- ing freshly made strudel by the slice. In the heart of sum- mer, live bands of all vari- eties will perform at the Eagan Rotary Band Shell, said Kerry Phillips of the Eagan Parks and Recreation Department. Market goers can expect to hear bands playing folk, polka, blues, blue- grass, and swing music - among others - from June 15 through Aug. 31. "It's certainly more of a social event than most farmers markets," Ruhland said. One of the highlights MARKET FEST: TO PAGE 4 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Market Fest FROM PAGE 1 of previous years has been the Classic Car Show and Oldies Music Night, Phillips said. This year, Art Kistler will grace the band shell as Elvis Presley "Through the Eras" June 22. Children's activities are also included in the mix. The festival has a free Kid's Art Tent and playground for children not necessarily interested in discussing how well rhubarb is or isn't doing this spring. Another highlight of the summer is the Family Night featuring a teen battle of the bands, Phillips said. "We've had 3,000 to 3,500 people come in the past," Phillips said of the Family Night, traditionally one of the best - attended market days of the year. Last year, the average weekly atten- dance was 2,800, with a total attendance of 24,000 for the summer, said Juli Johnson, City of Eagan Director of Parks and Recreation. Produce is usually picked the day of the market, giving shoppers fresh options each week. The selection of pro- duce items will change as the summer progresses due to the seasonal nature of the foods. The market has added five weeks to its calendar this year, increasing the total number to 17. Live music ends Aug. 31, but shoppers can still buy fresh pro- duce through the end of September. In June, residents who bike to the market will receive $5 in free produce while vouchers are available. Johnson wants to see the city's resi- dents utilize all the market has to offer this summer. "Eagan's Market Fest is a fun mid- week attraction throughout the sum- mer," Johnson said. "I encourage all Eagan residents to experience the best of Eagan by stopping by the market to shop, eat, relax and meet their friends and neighbors this summer." endar 3 Fza: • June 8 lv ke ri g and Arbor Day Celebration Bag (4 p.m.), Seedlings' 0 d Book Giveaways (6:30 pzxt)x Celebration and Community (5:30-7:30 p.m.). No concert this evening to 15 - Dustin Hatzenbuhler (4-5 p.m.), C"Ebe1 and DyVersaC Variety Band (6-8 p.m.) Classic Car Show and Oldies Music' Night, Harmonic Re .) Art KiStier as Elvis "Through the Eras" (6-8 p.m.) tnership with Dakota County Library; Okee Dokee ;pf the Bands (5:30-8 p.m.) nd the Groove Merchants (5-7:30 p i 5 p.m.), Hitchville (6-8 p.m.) • July R°�° ess Night. Tim Patrick and His 3,1< Band (5:30-8 p • Aug. 3 - Trent Romens (4-5:30 pm $ +asina (6-8 p.m.) d Ice Cream(4-8 p.m.) de Swing Band (4-8 p.m.) Sing -a -long, Crazy Keys (4-8 p.mm b W urrvi)k WPJ/ll Cigarette caused Eagan apartment fire that displaced 150 residents Six units heavily damaged; one cat killed by smoke main entrance of the building and had to act quickly to pre- vent the fire from spreading to the attic, Scott said. Meanwhile, third -floor resi- dents from at least three apart - by Erin Johnson ments were stranded on their THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS balconies awaiting rescue. Fire - An Eagan apartment fire fighters used ground ladders to that displaced 150 residents get them down. overnight June 6 was caused by "It was pretty chaotic in the a cigarette, authorities said. first 15 minutes," he said. The fire began in an outdoor All other residents were ashtray — the plastic kind with evacuated safely after firefight- a long neck — that had not been ers and police officers entered emptied on a regular basis, said the building and helped con - Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott. fused residents in the hallways The ashtray was set right up find alternate exits. against the vinyl siding of the Firefighters battled the apartment's entrance, causing flames in temperatures reaching the fire to spread from the con- 98 degrees, prompting a call for tainer to the building. additional assistance from the Outdoor ashtrays can work Mendota Heights, Rosemount well, but they need to be main- and Apple Valley fire depart- tained, Scott said. ments. Two Eagan firefighters "They often don't get emp- were treated for heat exhaustion tied out and they really become on scene and are doing fine, more of a hazard than a help," Scott said. he said. No residents were injured in Firefighters responded to the fire, although a cat in one the fire at LeMay Lake Apart- unit died from smoke inhala- ments, located at 3025 Eagan- tion. The cat's owners were not dale Avenue, at 6:16 p.m. Mon- home at the time of the fire, he day night. said. Arriving crews saw visible The building's 150 residents flames on all three floors of the See Fire, 15A Submitted photo A fire at LeMay Lake Apartments, located at 3025 Eagandale Avenue, displaced all 150 residents for at least one night. Six units were heavily damaged and are uninhabitable. The fire was caused by a cigarette in an outdoor ashtray located at the entrance of the building. Fire/from 1A were displaced overnight due to high levels of cya- nide gas, which results from burning plastics, chemicals, and other materials. As of Tuesday afternoon, residents were still not al- lowed back because the building did not yet meet code due to blocked exits from the fire. Most residents were ex- pected to be able to return home as of Tuesday eve- ning, but six of the units were heavily damaged by fire and water and remain uninhabitable. Scott said he's seen more apartment fires started by cigarettes than anything else since he became chief five years ago. He strongly recommends landlords and businesses purchase outdoor ashtrays made out of non-combusti- ble materials such as metal. The metal containers are more expensive than their plastic counterparts, but they're well worth it, he said. "They're a lot less expen- sive than replacing a build- ing," he said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc. coin. jrry itl- 53v) Ljr7/' 1 Funfest adds 'Patriotic Day' Eagan's July 4th celebration puts spotlight on veterans by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Organizers of Eagan's July 4th Funfest are answer- ing a call from the commu- nity to add a more patriotic flair to the annual event. While past celebrations have featured fireworks and patriotic parade themes, some members of the pub- lic felt it wasn't enough, said Cory Hilden, secretary of Eagan's July 4th Funfest. "So we thought, let's bring a little more patrio- tism to the (event) site it- self," she said. This year, July 3 will be designated "Patriotic Day" and will put the spotlight on those who have served their country. The events will take place at the Eagan Festival Grounds at Central Park, 1501 Central Parkway. Two World War II vet- erans and Eagan residents, Richard Carroll and An- thony Caponi, will share their stories from the stage, and the military statue will be officially unveiled at the Tribute and Memorial Pla- za. File photo Eagan's annual July 4th Funfest is looking to incorporate more patriotism this year with "Patriotic Day" on July 3, and by inviting veterans to appear in the parade with the theme "Hometown Heroes." There will be music and entertainment, and several organizations that support men and women in uniform will be showcased. Veterans are also being invited to walk or ride in the Funfest parade on July 4. The theme of this year's parade is "Hometown He- roes." Interested organizations or individuals seeking de- tails should contact Cory Hilden at info@EaganFun- fest.org. A complete Funfest schedule can be found at www. eagan funfest. o rg. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Grand Opening Celebration Eagan Fire Safety Center Thursday, June 23 4410 5 to 8 p.m, 0 1 'k 1-st on Teal \voutitaticis' 5:1.5 p.m. Grand Opening Presentation Guided Station Tours...Training Demos.. Trucks & Equipment.. Public Safety Displays...Historical Exhibits... -Youth Activities_ Ask a Firefighter. Refreshments. ratulatians Eagan! We're pleased to partner in creating the nation's 1st fire facility: Bossardt Corporation Crossroads Construction Direct Digital Controls Dunham Miller Excavating RainMaker Paint Contracting, L.L.C. City of Dan SEH Submitted photo Last year's Eagan Fun Run, which had about 500 participants, has been changed to the 5K Your Way Activity Festival and will include bikers, rollerbladers and walkers, as well as health and wellness activities. Eagan fun run revamped as `SK Your Way' activity festival Now bikers, rollerbladers can join runners and walkers at family -friendly fitness event by Erin Johnson said Kerry Phillips, rec- Way Activity Festival will THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS reation supervisor for the be held from 9 a.m. to noon Last year, Eagan's 5K city of Eagan. "The 'your Saturday, May 21 at the fun run celebrated its 25th way' part of the new name Eagan Festival Grounds at anniversary. This year, the means that participants Central Park. event is getting a makeover have their choice to bike, The city wanted the to be more inclusive of oth- roller blade, run or walk the event, which drew about er activities. 5K course in a noncompeti- 500 people last year, to en - "This year we have com- tive, fun environment." courage residents of all fit- pletely revamped the event," The Eagan 5K Your See 5K, 14A General 952-894-1111 Distribution 952-846-2070 Display Advertising 952-846-2011 Classified Advertising 952-846-2000 8 34493 00023 6 lin to C1/GG." • 51 / 3f 20. S41NTirreu� FARMERS' MARKET ,,100% Locally Grown aLq_Vavka_DL5 GM CERTIFIED 1.9% APR AVAILABLE RUK )0 4x4, 47,000 miles 1009 SILVERAD015.00 L T Z 4x4, Crew Cab, 45,000 miles OUNRY 1500 200b%SILVERAD011500I 2 wd., Crew Cab, 63,000 miles 4x4, 92,000 miles 2007hTRAILBLAZER y IF* Trade,w19,000 miles 1 '100 SIL ERAD_OL500� tit 20021SUBURBAN x1L,`m"les qatiESCAPEWit. . 4x4, 91,0 ' I iles... ..: E&SY ON THE 1005 2004 2003 COBALT SILVERADO $8,900 $7,900 CZ40....... $9,600 2003 2005 Z000 SILVERADO .. RUCK -R- US ? Q00 041,d00 $17,800 $13,900 $14,900 $12,900 $14,900 $9,900 CialascoD 500 $9,900 SEL $7,900 $6,900 Become a fan of Jeff Belzer's on Facebook & Twitter to receive additional specials JeffBelzer.com 888-794-2535 ness levels to join in, she said. "There are so many petitive running event any given weekend, an wanted the focus to b all ability levels to be tive," she said. "So anyb who just wants to be ac can participate at their pace." The event will fea one 5K course and difl'e start times for each ac ity. Bikers will begin at 9 a.m., followed by rol bladers at 9:30 and runn and walkers at 9:45. The festival will also h a variety of health and w ness-related activities, su as fitness "try -it" stati with fitness instructors fr Eagan Community C ter, where participants can experience spinning bikes, bosu, stability balls and other equipment. HealthEast Eagan Clinic will provide free blood pres- sure checks and profes- sionals will be on hand to provide stretching, and the Southwest YMCA will host a family game and activi area featuring an inflatab jumper, outdoor games an more. A shorter youth das around the park paths wi take place at 11:30 a.m. wit all youth runners receiving small prize item and ribbon and a Kid's Bike Safety Ro deo will check bike safet and helmet fittings and have helmets available for sale a a discounted rate of $4. In addition, a family art area will allow participants to create a banner to carry during the event, and Kid's m 5K/from lA Dance will provide festive kid -friendly music, dancing, contests and prizes. Four hundred people com- have already pre -registered s on for the event, which is more d we than had pre -registered in e on previous years, Phillips said. ac- "We're excited that resi- ody dents are embracing the tive new format," she said. own Pre -registration closed May 9, but participants ture can still register beginning rent at 8:15 a.m. the day of the tiv- event. :15 "I hope the changes to ler- this event will make it more ers inviting to everyone who wants to get active this sum- ave mer," said Eagan Parks and ell- Recreation Director Juli ch Seydell Johnson. "The 5K ons will be low-key and welcom- omr ing to all participants. Our en- goal is to have our parks and trails filled with walk- ers, runners, and bicyclists all year long." Registration costs $15 per person or $35 per family of three or more. To down- load a flier and registration form, visit www.cityofea- gan.com/specialevents. The event will be held rain or ty shine. le The Eagan 5K Your d Way Activity Festival is the first in a series of seven run h events in the local Ground 11 Pounders Race Series, which h also includes races hosted a by Burnsville (June 11), , Farmington (June 18), Ap- - ple Valley (July 4), Lakeville y (July 9), Rosemount (July 23) and Savage (Aug.13). t For a Ground Pounders flier, visit www.cityofeagan. com/specialevents. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Child & Adult Care Apple Valley / Rosemount The Bridges Child Care Center & Preschool Estab. in 1973. Summer & Fall Programs Preschool: 34 mo-5 yrs, AM 2 days $1121mo. or 3 days $1351mo, 9:30-11:30am Childcare: Free Preschl prog incld, toddler-12 yrs; 6am-6pm, FT/PT. Certified staff. $175/wk FT; $38/day PT. Discounts for Families. Transp. to Diam Path, Park & Glacier Hills Schools. 651-423-2527 Cert. Nursing Assist. /Licensed Preschool Teacher seeking Nanny position. 19 years child care exp. 651-322-2125 LV: Lic. Daycare All Ages, Activities, Food Prog, 19 + Years Exp. 952-431-3826 LV: LL Design as Daycare Lic/Exp/Oak Hills, 2 + Curric 952-432-8885 Sue LV/AV: Lic'd Daycare 24 yrs exp. Pre sch prgm, Food prgm. 952-891-1130 Cleaning ALL HOUSECLEANING Prof., Reliable & Affordable Mary Jo 612-701-2079 Call THE CLEAN TEAM Mom/daughter team for residential - South Metro 952-431-4885 Ranger Electric One Man Shop Resid/comm'I media. Low rates, lic/ins/bond. Contrac- tors welcome. Lic CA0619C 10% off for Seniors 952-432-4073 Plumbing, Heating & AC New Remodel & Repair 952-492-2440 lic 59502PM MASTER PLUMBER 20+ years Exp. Bonded, Insured. Lic #62398-PM Mark 612-910-2453 Bonafide Electric Free ests. bonafideelectric.com lic CA06456 651-689-3115 Housecleaning Maid imple , Detail Oriented, reliable, 20+ yrs exp, ref, ree est.Jane 651-252-7224 Melissa's Housecleaning Very reliable. 10 yrs exp. Exc rates. 612-598-6950 MIKE'S PLUMBING PLUS Excellent Service at Reas. Rates 612-987-6195 Lic/Ins Lic #62481 PM •akev lle Electric Inc. Remodeling • Repairs • New Construction • !. is CA03473, Bonded, Ins. Office 952-469-5542 • CeII 612-490-7823 Rich's Window Cleaning Quality Service. Afford- able rates. 952-435-7871 WHITE GLOVE CLEAN- S/SW Metro- Priv Indiv, 15 years exp. 612-384-0248 Blacktopping & Drivew R4 Offeri manuf• Tear-o & Gutt: tion, In Over 1 FR: Rod CeII • 95- Li A Famil New, No Sup Lic. 9 Con & M • Loy c From the •Dr v: •St: & St •Acid Floor minne - 95 info, Team Electric Lic/Ins/Bond Res/Comm. All jobs, all sizes, free ests. 952-758-7585 Lic#CA06084 www.teamelectricmn.com 10% off w/this ad DAGGETT ELECTRIC • Gen. Help + Lic. Elec. • Low By -the -hour Rates 651-815-2316 Lic CA06385 Roofing & Siding NEED A ROOF? Dun -Rite Roofing & Siding Co. Locally owned and operated 952-461-5155 www.DunRiteMN.com LiC. # 20177881 Davi 8 33 yrs et Colo • Dri • Sic Foundat New Tear almos 95 C.S Se • st. Opinion/4A . MAY 13, 2011 VOLUME 32, NO. 11 Announcements/6A Public Notices/6A & 14A Sports/7A See him, feel him. Chameleon Theatre Circle presents the rock musical 'Tommy' in Burnsville. See Thisweekend Page 9A all Classifieds/10A A NEWS OPINION RTS Real Estate/14A Celebrating 90 years Photo by Erin Johnson Hundreds of well-wishers gathered at the Caponi Art Park in Eagan on May 7 to celebrate founder Anthony Caponi's 90th birthday, which coincided with the opening of the park for the 2011 season. The event included ice cream, cake, live music and a formal presentation honoring Caponi, a sculptor and former art department chair at Macalester College, who was born in Italy in 1921. Activity fees rise in District 196 by Jessica Harper THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS While families attempt to pinch pennies in this tough economy, those in the Rose- mount -Apple Valley -Ea- gan School District will be forced to pay higher activity fees next school year. The School Board unani- mously approved on May 7 raising fees by $10 for high school athletics and fine arts activities in the 2011-12 school year to help balance the budget. The measure is part of the district's $8.5 mil- lion budget adjustments approved by the board in March. Though it's a relatively small amount, the increase will result in steep fees for some popular sports. For in- stance, hockey and football fees will be raised to $185 for the 2011-12 school year. "This is not something we look at cavalierly," Board Member Art Coulson said. "We understand $10 can make a difference between a kid being able to play a sport or not play a sport." The board also approved a proposal to impose a $10 graduation fee. This will go toward the cost of running the events, said Tony Tasch- ner, communications direc- tor for District 196. Both activity and gradu- ation fees are waived for students who qualify for free -and -reduced lunches, Taschner said. Booster clubs sometimes offer scholarships as well for those who do not qualify for a waiver, he said. There are no fees for caps, gowns or diplomas. In addition to raising ac- tivity fees, the School Board approved, in a 4-2 vote, a 5-cent increase to its lunch prices to meet a mandate signed by President Obama earlier this year that re- quires school districts to charge $2.34 within the next two years. Board members Rob Duchscher and Bob Schutte voted against the proposal. "Our prices were rea- sonable. I'm appalled that the federal government can control lunch prices when it's a local issue," Duchscher said. Schutte agreed, saying that he felt the federal gov- ernment was over -reaching its authority. Board Member Mike Roseen was absent. Breakfast prices will not change. The goal of the price change is to establish equity among free -and -reduced and full -price lunches. Currently, District 196 charges $2.05 for lunches at its elementary schools and $2.20 for lunches at its sec- ondary schools. The school district re- ceives $2.72, however, in federal reimbursement for free lunches. Any excess money is stored in the district's food service fund. The district is required to use this money solely for food service and cannot use it for the general fund. E-mail Jessica Harper at: jessica.harper@ecm-inc.com 2A May 13, 2011 THISWEEK JOIN US! Burnsville ECUMEN' Seasons at Apple Valley • N Grand Opening! It' , " Ill ■ I 11 Iyn r- Ir1" Y I" I In' r, r' ' 1, LI 1 Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley cordially invites you and a guest to attend our Grand Opening event on May 21, 2011. Join us as we celebrate the opening of this award -winning community, one r living. FOOD/REFRESHMENTS; MINNESOTA ZOOMOBI E! When Saturday May 21, 2011 1:00-4:00 PM Where Seasons at Apple Valley 15359 Founders Lane Apple Valley, MN 55124 VOTED REAL ESTATE Highway 13-CR 5 interchange proiect will add traffic headaches Open houses being held for affected businesses, residents by John Gessner THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Construction of a new Highway 13-County Road 5 interchange isn't imminent, but officials and business owners are already talking about the traffic hassles that await. Dakota County, the lead agency on the $40 million project, expects to award construction bids in fall 2012. Open -house meetings for business owners and residents began in February and will continue on June 23 at Burnsville City Hall. At least one more will be held after that. "13 is about to become a brand new highway," Burns- ville City Council Member Dan Gustafson said at a May 10 council work ses- sion. The construction period will be painful, but the in- terchange will help busi- nesses in the end while also sparking redevelopment in the area known as the Min- nesota River Quadrant, Gustafson said. Still to be determined is whether one or two lanes in each direction will remain open in the construction manna Q.yrrriina sn Rnrnee ville Public Works Director Steve Albrecht. Business owners will be shown the pros and cons of each, he said. Limiting traf- fic to one lane gives more flexibility to maintain ac- cess to businesses, Albrecht said. Property acquisition to make room for the grade - separated interchange will begin late this year, Albre- cht said. Many familiar businesses will disappear. Seven par- cels need to be acquired, said project manager John Sass of the Dakota County Transportation Depart- ment. Sass said they are the Val- voline Instant Oil Change property, the Little Saigon restaurant (which the city has already purchased), the Lakota Fields LLC prop- erty occupied by Taco Bell, the Advantage Auto Glass property, the vacant Sinclair station, the Famous Dave's property and the Namakan Properties LLC retail center at 1717 W. Highway 13. Appraisals will begin in August, Sass said in an in- terview. By law, funds will be provided to relocate the businesses, he said. officials in Burnsville. Savage and Dakota and Scott counties have sought the project for years. Traf- fic exceeds capacity at the at -grade intersection, re- sulting in extended periods of heavy congestion and a higher -than -average acci- dent rate, according to Da- kota County. Meanwhile, the Minne- sota Department of Trans- portation recently freed up funds to resurface Highway 13 from Interstate 35W in Burnsville to Interstate 35E Albrecht said. That work is scheduled for 2012. The highway surface is "awful," Mayor Elizabeth Kautz said, "so this is good news." In a related matter, the city is seeking to reopen to the public the Union Pacific railroad crossing at Wash- burn Avenue. The private crossing's owner, Kraemer Mining and Materials, closed it in fall 2010 because of liability exposure. Burnsville officials say the closing hinders access to the Waste Management landfill in Burnsville and limits access to the Minne- sota River Quadrant. John Gessner is at burnsville. thisweek@ecm-inc. com. THISWEEK June 17, 2011 3A Eagan mmiiiiimmommot Eagan man charged with forcing teen girl to have sex by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS An Eagan man is n- accused of giving a v- 14-year-old girl alco- ne hol and then forcing her to have sex with its him. Alexander James Sipe, 24, has been charged with one count of third-degree crimi- nal sexual conduct. According to the crimi- nal complaint, the juvenile victim contacted police June 7 to report she had been sexually assaulted. The girl told officers that Sipe had provided her with alcoholic beverages and then forced her to have sexual inter- course with him. Sipe also forced her to perform oral sex on him, she said. The victim's mother told police she had confronted Sipe and he admitted to her he had sexual intercourse with the victim. Sipe also confessed to police, the complaint said. Sipe is currently being x- Is- he is ue ng at a ar. is - ace lo- nts of 20 r- om at: Alexander Sipe held at the Dakota County Jail on $150,000 bail. If convicted, Sipe faces up to 15 years in jail and/or a fine of $10,000 to $30,000. A pretrial hearing is scheduled June 27. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Need Insurance? Tall (062) 746 6060 160 ! Tray.l.ra Trail, iult. C, dumavllla Your Heart of the City Agency Servicing Individuals, Employers and Seniors since 1987 4A June 17, 2011 THISWEEK O.inio Thisweek Colu Spotlight shines on by Joe Nathan THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Recent Eastview High School graduate Sarah Cartwright and musicals from Eagan and Eastview high schools were strongly praised last week on the main stage of a huge downtown Minneapolis theater. This hap- pened during one of the most remarkable youth programs I've ever witnessed. More than 2,600 people jammed into the Orpheum Theater to praise and promote high school musical the- ater. It was rowdy, rousing and reassuring. Cartwright was selected as the top high school female musical performer in the state. She will receive a free trip to New York City for a national competition. The Eastview spring production of "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and the fall Eagan production of "Hairspray" both "outstanding performance" an standing overall tion" awards. Amanda Taylo chael Selchow, Pe sanda and Tim from Eastview were citec "outstanding performan were Bailey Richardson, Schugel, Evan Esslinger Wirsbinski, Anna Hutt Garrett Lukin from Eaga Including those from E and Eagan, 950 studen a typo) from 47 high around the state partii This was the sixth year 1 Hennepin Theatre Trust gathered high school mus: dents for a "Spotlight" pry The performance was si Why? It was incredibly ui often funny, hugely en ing and deeply reassuring ' 1 i 1 1 1001 Station Trail ►nkee Doodle Road h Wescott Woodlands) 5:15 p.m. )pening Presentation tion Tours...Tra i ni ng Demos... .ucks & Equipment... Displays... Historical Exhibits. Youth Activities... refighter... Refreshments... ww.cityofeagan.com south metro for over 20 years. Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation. e NAOS . J�Gau odont • w lc Specialists, P.A. EAGAN (Pilot Knob & Diffley) 001-454-6274 Dog fair will benefit Eagan resident wit canc Paws 4 Cause event will feature play, family fun, food and canine education by Erin Johnson THLSWEEK NEWSPAPERS Wagging Tails Pet Re- sort, a full -service doggy day care and boarding facility in Eagan, invites all dog owners to join in a day of fun to ben- efit a serious cause. The Paws 4 Cause Dog Fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 25. It will feature an "Ask the Dog Trainer" booth, a dog com- municator, doggy nail trims, non -toxic dog coloring, face painting for kids, music and gourmet nachos. For a $5 donation, dogs will be able to play off -leash in the 10,000-square-foot out- door play area, and owners will receive a presentation on dog park safety and etiquette and canine body language. A raffle and silent auction will feature numerous gift cards and baskets, including a dog -training package valued at $1,200 and a day care pack- age from Wagging Tails. All proceeds will benefit Candy Cole, a dog care atten- dant at Wagging Tails. Cole has been diagnosed with in- operable, stage IV colorectal cancer. She spent six weeks in the hospital and has not been able to work, said Jody Karow, one of Wagging Tail's owners. "She doesn't know how she's going to stay in her apartment at this point," she said. Cole has a heart of gold, especially when it comes to her canine charges, Karow said. "She's just an incredible woman. She is hands on with all of our customers' pup- pies," she said. "We want to do whatever we can to help See Dog Fair, 13A 7"N\ ‘) Candy Cole, a dog care attendent at Wagging Ta Pet Resort in Eagan, has been diagnosed with sta IV colorectal cancer. Wagging Tails is holding Dog Fair to help raise money for her care. 525,210 HOT! 1i8 Savings 6 2011 iEW4MALIBU LS 2011 NEW 9 u: HOT! $�1'9,4'- 6 $25,735 Savings AT�2.4 itre, PW,PLr•Cruise LE', QS SPECIAL imi N iw IYERADO 2011 NEW $'7900YMO;, 39 M0S4,2K 1-1 lease, 12,000 miles rper ye'a`r..$'1" 999 total out of Ill pocket; O.A`C. Exten Cab, 4x' LS 1 TRAVERSE LIZRO BAASSENGER 0.111. 0C1 HOT! Savings HP 900 tos `s3'1► 700 1ooegl�L�ER 10, Y7fNAl� iER 7 i TAL PEARL, 12K MI. TB SZ�8, 2010 9/0 CHALLENGER! SXT TORRED RED, 32K MILES CRYSTAL PEARL, 14K MILES BRIGHT SILVER,19,000 MIL $31,145 25,.871 435 S LVERADO Crew Cab, 4x4 O,& Avail'abl'e* 9/11 Availaa 3 1 900 Z009CHAARGGER HEMI ORANGE 1 K MILES 0 3i,90 09 0 LOW 20,800 $19 10@6'""'"" 3003 900 MUSTANG CONVER .v CONVERT. ED FINE METALLIC, 54K M►? TROPIC GREEN GO top ►ESS 7 0 13,900 06 6.0 ONLY 0 9 900 rrrrra� , i AND 0137100 MSRP $28,545 * MSRP $31,185 REL LESSEE $1,000 11,52'2 RET. LESSEE 51,000 REBATE 51,7503 REBATE $ 3,150 18 ALLY BONUS 51,000 ALLY BONUS S1,000 0137023 0137094 D137000 ox lwi1 r �ES MSRP $36,920 MSRP $46,895 DISCOUNT-54,201 11 DISCOUNT -$5,775 RET. LESSEE -$1,000 ( RET. LESSEE-51,000 REBATE $2,500 ' REBATE $3,000 ALLY BONUS 51,000 ALLY BONUS 51,000 USAA MEMBERS.SAVEAN ADDITIONAL $1000 ON AVENGER & GRAND CARAVAN )0 (Or JEFF 6ELZER'S (ID KIA MOTORS The Power to Surprise® 888-794-2535 6/17.2645.ABF <.LiNe w,TM n 10 2011 KIA FORTE LX $14,999 Belzer Sale Price -1500 Active Military Rebate $14,499 ALL RTD• #K121030 2011 KIA OPTIMA LX '20,999 Belzer Sale Price -*S00 Loyalty or Comp. Bonus -f500 Active Military Rebate ._ $'19,999 ALL RID* #K140046 2011 KIA SPORTAGE 17, 999 Belzer Sale Price 2012 KIA SORENT ✓ ✓✓ Does D Now is a great time of your vehicle. Exte $1O(»1 With Cou Schedule Your A 952-469-373 Express Li Mon-Thurs Fri 7am Sat 8a CONSrj1IIUCT Eagan rt" )4 is, LJE Jz ( /r / z011 Anthony Caponi to receive 'Eleven Who Care' award The Eagan sculptor and art park founder is recognized by longstanding KARE-11 program by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Last month, he celebrat- ed his 90th birthday. This month, Anthony Caponi is being celebrated as an outstanding member of his community. Caponi has been named one of `Eleven Who Care," an awards program that rec- ognizes 11 outstanding vol- unteers who serve the com- munity each year. Caponi is the founder and director of the Eagan Art Park and Learning Center, a free park that fea- tures a variety of his own sculptures dotted around 60 acres of nature. "I am honored by this recognition, especially be- cause it brings attention to Caponi Art Park and the community whose contin- ued support and participa- tion made this difficult and rewarding project possible," he said. Each year, hundreds of volunteers are nominated for the award, given by KARE-11. Anthony Caponi Caponi was nominated by a former program and volunteer coordinator at the park. According to KARE-11, the honorees "truly exem- plify the belief that one per- son can make a difference." Caponi, who was born in Italy, is a sculptor, educator, poet, author, philosopher and engineer who has made significant contributions to Minnesota's arts communi- ty. He has devoted himself for more than 30 years to developing the art park, a nonprofit organization that is open free to the public from May through October. "He's spent a lot of time making it a great destina- tion for families and kids," said Jenna Strank, commu- nications coordinator for the Caponi Art Park. The park includes a 20- acre sculpture garden, an outdoor amphitheater for summer performances and miles of walking paths. Caponi will be honored at an awards ceremony in late June, and the Eleven Who Care segment will air June 22 at 10 p.m. on KARE-11. Caponi, a World War II veteran, has also been se- lected as a grand marshal of Eagan's July 4th Funfest parade honoring hometown heroes. He will share stories during the Patriotic Day events at Eagan's Central Park on July 3 (see related story). Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Announcements Letters Gladys Hood Hot Sam's Antiques Gladys Hood, age 84 from Lakeville passed on December 21, 2010. Survived by sons Robert Charles "Jake" Hood (Kathleen Sakry) James Stephen "Jim" Hood (Patrica) Adopted daugh- ter Julie Clark of California. A celebration of life will be held at Hot Sam's Antiques June 26th from 2:00 - 6:00 pm. Duane & Mary Eich 50th Wedding Shutdown is not a good idea To the editor: I disagree with the pros- pect of Minnesota govern- ment being shut down. This is not a solution to the prob- lem and still leaves a confron- tation between Democrats' and Republicans' points of view on the budget deficit, taxes and government re- forms unresolved. A shutdown is not a good idea because it could cost the state of Minnesota mil- lions of dollars (most state employees would have to be paid severance — cash for unused sick leave and time off, according to union con- tracts). Where would the state find millions of dollars for that if there is already a budget deficit of $5.8 billion? What is going on right now in the Legislature re- minds me of a squabble be- tween children in elementary school: pointing fingers at each other and blaming each other. The difference is that in comparison with chil- dren's squabbles the matter at stake is much more seri- ous (more than 40,000 state employees and their families depend on the willingness of both parties to compromise and find a peaceful solution to this problem). The state of Minnesota could follow the example of the state of Washington, .,,1,;,.1, tk the changing economy an priorities for our corporat sponsors have reduced the amount of money available. While we have retained some of our sponsors, oth- ers have made a decision this year to no longer participate. Our concerted efforts to re- place these sponsors have been largely unsuccessful and we are now being forced to make a decision as to wheth- er or not we can continue. We now have a need to reach out to the community through this letter in order to save Art and All that Jazz. If you value the continu- ation of this event, and you are interested in being a cor- porate sponsor or becoming an individual contributor to keep your festival alive through these challenging times, please go to our web - site at www.burnsvilleartjazz. com and make a donation. THE 2011 ART AND ALL THAT JAZZ BOARD A 501C3 Minnesota copora- tion Morrison's departure raises question To the editor: I do not doubt that Gail Morrison accomplished much during her long ten- ure as a District 191 School Board member. Haurpvrr I was dumb- Orndorf oncert ing the n Dick otos, go Funfest adds `Patriotic Day Eagan's July 4th celebration puts spotlight on veterans by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Organizers of Eagan's July 4th Funfest are answer- ing a call from the commu= nity to add a more patriotic flair to the annual event. While past celebrations have featured fireworks and patriotic parade themes, some members of the pub- lic felt it wasn't enough, said Cory Hilden, secretary of Eagan's July 4th Funfest. "So we thought, let's bring a little more patrio- tism to the (event) site it- self," she said. This year, July 3 will be designated "Patriotic Day" and will put the spotlight on those who have served their country. The events will take place at the Eagan Festival Grounds at Central Park, 1501 Central Parkway. Two World War II vet- erans and Eagan residents, Richard Carroll and An- thony Caponi, will share their stories from the stage, and the military statue will be officially unveiled at the Tribute and Memorial Pla- za.rh �, S1/✓E�.i File photo Eagan's annual July 4th Funfest is looking to incorporate more patriotism this year with "Patriotic Day" on July 3, and by inviting veterans to appear in the parade with the theme "Hometown Heroes." There will be music and entertainment, and several organizations that support men and women in uniform will be showcased. Veterans are also being invited to walk or ride in the Funfest parade on July 4. The theme of this year's parade is "Hometown He- roes." -7 !f 7 1 t# Interested organizations or individuals seeking de- tails should contact Cory Hilden at info@EaganFun- fest.org. A complete Funfest schedule can be found at www.eaganfunfest.org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc. com. al Rugs THROUGH IT! Buying Old Life, Post, & Sports Sports Illustrated Collectibles Magazines lyb5 jpik All G.I. Ales RUES • 763-542-8282 F/ J ; WITH THE i;rTTFR RUSINESS BURFAU to people (guests or staff)," gre the zoo said in the state- 15 ment. "The large number of tran guests on site and the loca- the s tion of the animal made to- • day's decision the only one the e possible under the circum- and stances." effect Zoo visitors were di- • t rected into the nearest to de building after the male for b LINT ON CHEVY _ • I -top. 2011NEW MAL�IBULT 2011 NEW IMPALA LT *Auto Onsta r, CD4MP3 Auto, V-6, Onstar IIIllhi . JUNE 10, 2011 VOLUME 32, NO. 15 www.thisweeklive.com Opinion/4A Announcements/5A Free Friday-ni return to Av Kelley Park t See Thisi Page Purnsvit-Ea an Sports/6A Rea! Estate/8A Classifie Cigarette caused Eagan apartment fire that displaced 150 residents Six units heavily damaged; one cat killed by smoke by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS An Eagan apartment fire that displaced 150 residents overnight June 6 was caused by a cigarette, authorities said. The fire began in an outdoor ashtray — the plastic kind with a long neck — that had not been emptied on a regular basis, said Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott. The ashtray was set right up against the vinyl siding of the apartment's entrance, causing the fire to spread from the con- tainer to the building. Outdoor ashtrays can work well, but they need to be main- tained, Scott said. "They often don't get emp- tied out and they really become more of a hazard than a help," he said. Firefighters responded to the fire at LeMay Lake Apart- ments, located at 3025 Eagan - dale Avenue, at 6:16 p.m. Mon- day night. Arriving crews saw visible main entrance of the building and had to act quickly to pre- vent the fire from spreading to the attic, Scott said. Meanwhile, third -floor resi- dents from at least three apart- ments were stranded on their balconies awaiting rescue. Fire- fighters used ground ladders to get them down. "It was pretty chaotic in the first 15 minutes," he said. All other residents were evacuated safely after firefight- ers and police officers entered the building and helped con- fused residents in the hallways find alternate exits. Firefighters battled the flames in temperatures reaching 98 degrees, prompting a call for additional assistance from the Mendota Heights, Rosemount and Apple Valley fire depart- ments. Two Eagan firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion on scene and are doing fine, Scott said. No residents were injured in the fire, although a cat in one unit died from smoke inhala- tion. The cat's owners were not home at the time of the fire, he said. The building's 150 residents Submitted photo A fire at LeMay Lake Apartments, located at 3025 Eagandale Avenue, displaced all 150 residents for at least one night. Six units were heavily damaged and are uninhabitable. The fire was caused by a cigarette in an outdoor ash:ra.L, ..' ' istrict considers Cassellius tours Burnsville school d balance loard Member n, noting that yet to be ap- Legislature. rom the gener- d help prevent n budget defi- naking signifi- id Lisa Ryder, ce director. fall is primar- ily caused by declining enrollment and flat state funding, Ryder said. Student enrollment has dropped by 155 students this school year. State aid has remained flat for three years. With the Legislature moving into a special session, funding See District 191, 14A an Market Fest nesday, June 15th 4-8 pm Bike to Eagan Market :est in the month of June and earn FREE produce! For details visit www.cityofeagan.comlmarketfest igan Festival Grounds 501 Central Parkway vw.cityofeagan.com/marketfest 651-675-5500 t featuring a farmers market with sts, music, kid's art tent & more! rket Fest This Week: enbuhler Co. Polka Classic Car Show & Oldies Music Night - June 22 Register to display oP\ Photo by Jessica Harper Students at Nicollet Junior High in Burnsville met with Minnesota Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius on June 3 to share their experiences in the AVID program, which is a building -wide elective program designed to help students prepare for and succeed in college. Students gave Cassellius a tour of the school, showed her some of their latest projects and asked questions about her job. .RETRACTABLE AWNINGS Enjoy Instant Shade & Comfort All Summer and SAVE $200! Act now and get a S200 discount toward any SunSetter Retractable Lateral Arm Awning — America's #1 best-sell- ing awning. Request a FREE in -home consultation. Apple Valley Enomm Wolf shot, killed after escaping zoo exhibit Minnesota Zoo staff shot and killed a wolf Wednesday morning after it escaped its exhibit and was roaming the zoo grounds. Zoo visitors were direct- ed into the nearest building after the wolf left its enclo- sure and got out onto the Northern Trail. The 8-year-old male s c P CO O RM boys track hits its stride - Page 23 750 Market Fest: sprouting soon in Eagan park BY MATTHEW HANKEY • SUN NEWSPAPERS If you grow it, they will come. The Eagan Market Fest started five years ago with about 15 vendors. Since then, the market has grown to allow nearly 60 vendors of wide-ranging varieties sell their prod- ucts. The annual market begins this year 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 8 and occurs each Wednesday through Sept. 28 at the Eagan Festival Grounds at Central Park, 1501 Central Parkway. Traditional farm food producers, pastry makers, iced tea and ice cream. vendors, and craft makers can be found at the mar- ket in this year. The market will also host vendors selling hand- made soaps and hand - painted garden stepping- stones. Thomas Ruhland of Eagan has been a vendor at the market since its first year in 2007. The chief strudel maker for Ruhland's Strudel Haus, he says this is one of the ti most unique markets of the seven he will vend this year. "It's family -focused," Ruhland said. "That's what I like about this farmer's market. Eagan is our favorite." Ruhland is one of sev- eral vendors providing concessions -style snack and dinner options - a new feature at the market this year. Ruhland's Strudel Haus will be sell- ing freshly made strudel by the slice. In the heart of sum- mer, live bands of all vari- eties will perform at the Eagan Rotary Band Shell, said Kerry Phillips of the Eagan Parks and Recreation Department. Market goers can expect to hear bands playing folk, polka, blues, blue- grass, and swing music - among others - from June 15 through Aug. 31. "It's certainly more of a social event than most farmers markets," Ruhland said. One of the highlights MARKET FEST: TO PAGE 4 2 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, June 9, 2 COMMUNITY NEWS Eagan Historical Society Historical S open house Hall is locat Pilot Knob a The Eagan Historical Society will host Informati two spring open houses at the 1914 Town Hall. The first Open House meets 11 a.m. Library to 1 p.m. Sunday, June 12, and the second meets 4-6 p.m. Thursday, June 16. The Kids and June 16 event will also include the dedica- library this tion of a memorial park bench at 5:30 p.m. celebration honoring Virginia "Gin" Knight, longtime June 13 thr ....................... . ',red -it guaranteed Fast. Guaranteed Secure. NEW SECURE DROP C RESIDENTIALAND HOME Go to www.shreditmn.com Shred -It • 8400 89th Ave. No., Brooklyn Park. MN ' 9Li, N/Pel.et�..- In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Market Fest FROM PAGE 1 of previous years has been the Classic Car Show and Oldies Music Night, Phillips said. This year, Art Kistler will grace the band shell as Elvis Presley "Through the Eras" June 22. Children's activities are also included in the mix. The festival has a free Kid's Art Tent and playground for children not necessarily interested in discussing how well rhubarb is or isn't doing this spring. Another highlight of the summer is the Family Night featuring a teen battle of the bands, Phillips said. "We've had 3,000 to 3,500 people come in the past," Phillips said of the Family Night, traditionally one of the best - attended market days of the year. Last year, the average weekly atten- dance was 2,800, with a total attendance of 24,000 for the summer, said Juli Johnson, City of Eagan Director of Parks and Recreation. Produce is usually picked the day of the market, giving shoppers fresh options each week. The selection of pro- duce items will change as the summer progresses due to the seasonal nature of the foods. The market has added five weeks to its calendar this year, increasing the total number to 17. Live music ends Aug. 31, but shoppers can still buy fresh pro- duce through the end of September. In June, residents who bike to the market will receive $5 in free produce while vouchers are available. Johnson wants to see the city's resi- dents utilize all the market has to offer this summer. "Eagan's Market Fest is a fun mid- week attraction throughout the sum- mer," Johnson said. "I encourage all Eagan residents to experience the best of Eagan by stopping by the market to shop, eat, relax and meet their friends and neighbors this summer." In the Community, With the Community. For the Community Apple Valley resident recognized Local ATV riding trainer named top instructor BY MICHAEL RICCI • SUN NEWSPAPERS s1 W turns When riding an all -terrain vehicle, nals," "safety first" is a mantra no one knows instru better than one local Apple Valley man. rider Jay Peterson, a volunteer ATV riding think instructor for the Department of Even Natural Resources, was awarded the b ail. T 2010 DNR Safety Instructor of the Year trail. award Saturday, May 21, at the Dakota have to County Fairgrounds for his work last ¢ Situ year. Peterson and about 12 South Metro react ATV club members volunteer their time s crash to teach new riders about the keys to to Pe being a safe ATV rider, in addition to demea being knowledgeable. about 1 "He is very energetic and gets down been n and talks to them at their level instead of when encountering extremely rough ter- I did n like an authority figure," said Mark ram, wet and slippery hills and other me," Pe Rylander, a fellow volunteer instructor. potentially dangerous situatjons "It makes them more at ease, and it "Ti make ever .+►,; rt �_- to the when better JAY PETERSON . MAY 20, 2011 VOLUM Th a r www.thisweeklive.cornXi�M Opinion/4A Announcements/5A Thisweekend/7A t hn SPA Sen. Al Franken took part in a roundtable discussion May 13 at Eagan's Lewis House, a safe house for women and children, focusing on mobile devices that can track users' locations without their knowledge. Photo by Erin Johnson i A id Franken taiks tracking technology' at Eagan women's shelter Senator listened to concerns about possible threats such phone technologies can pose to domestic violence victims by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Technology that can track someone's location through a mobile device is a very help- ful tool for law enforcement, but it can be a nightmare for someone escaping an abusive relationship. Sen. Al Franken, who chairs a newly formed Sen- ate subcommittee on privacy and technology, visited Ea- gan's Lewis House on May 13 to discuss the issue with domestic violence experts and law enforcement. Franken's subcommit- tee recently held a hearing in Washington, D.C., where domestic violence experts raised concerns about track- ing technology on mobile de- vices. ' Such technology can re- veal the location of a cell phone or other mobile de- vice user without his or her knowledge or consent, Fran - ken said. "An abuser can track his wife or girlfriend using See Franken, 12A ger allegedly used customers' debit cards ssa is ith eft on ERS n Eagan ant has allegedly credit or own pur- ssa Ca - den Prai- rged with ntity theft f financial fraud, all a manager Chicken, liable .com alley ference located at 4585 Erin Lane in Eagan. According to the crimi- nal complaint, a customer reported to police she had accidentally left her debit card behind at the restau- rant June 22. She spoke with a shift manager who confirmed the card was at the restaurant and made ar- rangements to pick it up. Prior to picking up the card, the customer learned from her bank that the card had been used in multiple transactions throughout the city. A total of $638 was spent in unauthorized charges, in- cluding $100 at a salon, $85 at a coffee shop, and $190 at a retail store. After watching surveil- lance video, police identi- fied Camargo as the sus- pect. Camargo admitted using the card, police said. During the investiga- tion, police received a simi- lar report from a second victim who left her card at the restaurant June 30. By the time she picked it up, it had allegedly been used to rack up $625 in unauthor- ized charges, the complaint said. If convicted, Camargo faces up to five years in jail and a fine of $3,000 to $10,000 for each count. A manager at the res- taurant said Camargo is no longer employed there. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Woman Milled in Eagan crash Jeannette McCleery of Burnsville died at the scene by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A Burnsville woman was killed May 16 when her car failed to yield to traffic and was hit by another car at an Eagan intersection. Jeannette McCleery, 85, died at the scene. The driver of the other car sustained minor injuries. According to police, Mc- Cleery was driving on Sa- vannah Road, which has a stop sign at the Lexington Avenue intersection, around 7:50 p.m. Witnesses said McCleery was pulling out into the in- tersection when she was hit by a car traveling north- bound on Lexington. The car struck Mc- Cleery's vehicle on the driv- er's -side door. Police said they believe all individuals involved in the crash were wearing their seatbelts, and alcohol does not appear to be a fac- tor. The Minnesota State Patrol is assisting in this investigation. There are no criminal charges at this time, police said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. louses o f W�wiship' To Advertise Your Church CaII us at 952-846-2000 Deadline is Monday at 5:OOpm for changes. tE ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH LCA 20165 Heath Ave. Across from Aronson Park 952-469-4916 Celebrated in the classic, historic & liturgical format "We are here to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and to reach out in .His,Lov to.all.people." ... Evangelical Lutheran Church in America www.sjlcl.org Worship Hours 8:30 & 10:45 am Education Hour 9:40 am Pastor Gregg Helland PEACE CHURCH At Peace Church you will find a loving community and worship that will inspire your walk of faith. Sunday Worship 9:00 a.m. DayBreak 10:15 a.m. Sunday School 11:11 a.m. epic 9:00 a.m. Lao Service Friday -Celebrate R ry 6:15 p.m. BBQ 7:00 p.m. Worship 'Childcare provided during all Sunday services. Signing for the deaf and hard of hearing offered at our 9:00 am service. 2180 Glory Drive, Eagan (off Nicols between Diffley & Cliff) 651-454-4542 www.peace-eagan.org nomet L_. Dealer 1.1 The troops are readying for battle at the World War II history event this weekend in Farmington. See L Thisweekend Page 1A orts/8A Classifieds/9A w A N ,� NION -'°' PORTS Public Notices,/13A Walmart coming to North Burnsville Store will be east of I-35W on north end of town by John Gessner THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The opening of a Walmart store next fall east of Interstate 35W in north Burnsville could begin the transformation of an area known for heavy industry. The City Council unani- mously approved plans for the 155,000-square-foot store May 17. The store, to be located on the southwest corner of River Ridge Boulevard and Cliff Road, could help launch redevelopment at the city's northern entrance and begin to "radically change" the area's im- age, Council Member Dan Kealey said. "I'm thrilled that they're coming in," Kealey said. "It's a big boost to our tax base." The site is in Burnsville's north- ern "gateway" district, which in- cludes 1,700 acres west of the freeway dominated by landfill, limestone mining and other indus- trial uses. The city has taken steps to ready the area, known as the Min- nesota River Quadrant, for redevel- opment. Excited about Walmart "Everyone I've heard from is pretty excited about Walmart com- ing here," Council Member Dan Gustafson said. Mayor Elizabeth Kautz said one resident asked her whether Burns- ville could support another big -box retailer. It's up to Walmart to de- termine its market viability, Kautz said. "What we're doing here tonight is land use, and it's about property owner's rights," the mayor said. The 28.5-acre site is owned by the Luther Company and was ap- proved for a new Burnsville Volk- swagen dealership in 2000. The project never happened. Luther had bought the land from Holnam Portland Cement, which operated a concrete transfer station with large silos. The store is expected to open next September or October, City Planner Chris Slania said. It will be open 24 hours a day. Entrances will be on Cliff Road and River Ridge Boulevard. "It's easily accessible," Kautz said. The store will increase traffic sig- nificantly at the Cliff Road intersec- tions with River Ridge Boulevard and the I-35W frontage road east of the freeway, according to city staff. A condition of approval requires Walmart to pay for a traffic study within a year of the store's open- ing. If city and Dakota County engineers determine a traffic signal is needed at Cliff and River Ridge within three years of the opening, Walmart will pay the entire cost. If in that same time it's deter- mined a signal is needed at Cliff and the frontage road, Walmart will pay 25 percent of the cost, based on the amount of intersection traffic it's projected to generate. The store will be on an 18.6-acre lot. The company plans to market a second, 1.2-acre lot for a fast-food restaurant. Walmart has agreed to place a heavily wooded bluff on the prop- erty into a conservation easement to preserve the trees. That property is 8.6 acres. John Gessner is at burnsville. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 2A May 20, 2011 THISWEEK Multiple Policies. One agent. I can help you save time & money. One agent for all your insurance needs saves time. And Allstate's multi -policy discounts are an easy way to save money. For affordable protection for your car, home, boat, motorcycle and more, call me first. Ed Scislow Jr., CPCU, CLU, ChFC (952) 894-8382 12904 Nicollet Ave. S. Burnsville edscislow@allstate.com Allstate. You're in good hands. Auto Home Life Retirement Insurance and discounts subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Property and Casuatty Insurance Company and Allstate Indemnity Company: Northbrook, Illinois a 2010 Allstate Insurance Company. 41B•2558468H•B ©Find us on Facebook Register Now For et g Summer Eaga KFC ma Kenllhy Camar charged fraud, I by Erin Jo THISWEEK NE A manager a fast food rest been charged f using customer debit cards for h chases. Kenllhy Va margo, 36, of rie, has been ch two counts of id and two counts transaction card felonies. Camargo was at Kentucky Frie \ Outdoor lessons now Vi available at Cascade Everyday or once a week lessons IOW Afternoon Camps Av 952-953-7946 - WiseSwim 149th & Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Give Your Kids the Best • Experience the Di Hebuddin after fire Badly damaged by a fire from a faulty heating unit, Ansari's in Eagan is preparing to open again this summer by Erin Johnson THHSWEEK NEWSPAPERS It was a freezing cold February day when the own- ers of Ansari's Mediterra- nean Grill and Lounge in Eagan watched their dream go up in smoke. Firefighters battled ex- treme temperatures and icy conditions as they tried to put out a fire that had erupted overnight, caused by a malfunctioning rooftop HVAC unit. While the shell of the building remained intact, the fire caused major dam- age to the restaurant's rest - room area, and the dining room and bar areas were heavily damaged by smoke and water. The owners knew right away they wanted to rebuild, said Ramsey Ansari, one of five brothers who run the restaurant along with their father. "It's been a very long four months here," he said. "Ev- erybody's getting anxious to get back in there." The restaurant's loyal customer base also encour- aged them to rebuild, he said. "We got tons of customer support. They were telling me, `Don't go anywhere,' he said. Rebuilding the restaurant has given the owners an op- portunity to make some im- provements, he said. The restaurant, a former Baker's Square, opened in 2009 after a major remodel. "After we remodeled the first time, I said I never wanted to do it again," An - sari said. "And now I find myself doing it again, so I'm back to square one." The majority of the res- taurant's tables, chairs and booths needed replacing, the walls were torn down, and the bathrooms were gutted. The remodel will include larger restrooms, a raised ceiling, new walls with exten- sive wood trim, and a larger patio that will wrap around the front of the building. "It's going to look like almost a brand-new restau- rant, which is exciting," he said. Amazingly, a 110-year- old bar from the torn -down Leamington Hotel in Min- Ansari's Mediterranean Grill and Lounge in Eagan is in the process of being rebuilt after sustaining heavy damage from a fire Feb. 9. The fire marshal has determined the fire was caused by a malfunctioning HVAC unit in the roof. Photo by Rick Orndorf • neapolis once a political hot spot that included sev- eral presidents among its guests — survived the fire. Ansari said he anticipates the restaurant will be able to open its doors by the end of June or in early July. "It's been a long process, but it's getting there," he said. "I'm looking forward to feeding the community again." Ansari's is located at 1960 Rahn Cliff Court. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. AT SPECIALS 616 E O 89 O LEAS 11,000 MILES/YEAR STOCK # C11113' 6 SPEED MANUAL, 1.8 LITRE, XM, CD 4Z011)Tahoe�LS 4X4, AUTO, 5.3 V8, BLUETOOTH, =7 -• 000GE LEASE •2,000 MILES/YEAR STOCK # C104095 AUTO, 4 CYL ECOTEC, CD MP3 2010IMPALA Silver Ice 2010 HHR LT Imperial Blue 2009 SPECTRA LX Silver 2009 SILVERADO CREW 4x4, Silver Birch 20081SILVERADO1EXT 4x4, Deep Ruby 20081EOUINOX Silver Ice 2008F,000S Litit Ice Blue 000000000000000000000 0000000000000 000000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 $9,300 M ,r V j PP G leSa. 44r 11 ;'L Apple Valley vs. Lakeville North PAGE 28A Eagan hosts landlord training for supers, homeowners alike BY JEFF BARTHEL • SUN NEWSPAPERS Attention landlords, leasers or anyone else who is offering space for rent or considering doing so in the near future. The Eagan Police Department is hosting Crime Free Rental Housing Training Wednesday, May 11 at the Eagan Fire Safety Center. The training provides infor- mation and advice on safety and proper conduct with landlord -tenant relationships. "Any time someone rents out part of their home or subleases, it makes them an instant landlord. I don't know if people necessarily understand, but there are a lot of laws and regulations that go along with that." said Danielle Anselment, police and public safety officer for the Eagan Police Department. Anselment said this year's training is similar to the Crime Free Multi -Housing program, a program devel- oped by Minnesota Crime Prevention Association. The difference with this year's training is that it has expand- ed its aim beyond multiple -housing properties. "The Multi -Housing Program is designed to build relationships between the police department and multi - housing management and staff to improve the quality of life and reduce criminal activity and calls for service," Anselment said. "[This year] we've broadened out the topics so [the training] is applicable to multi -housing managers and single family managers." Anselment said many agencies host multi -housing trainings throughout the year. Eagan teams up with Burnsville, Apple Valley, Rosemount and Savage to host just one training event per year. Among the crime pre- vention initiatives at this year's training are two partic- ular types of programs: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design and Terrorism Awareness and fipple Valley is Authorized parts, repairs, lealers.com B LJIck TRAINING: TO PAGE 21 952-432-9500 GMC y PONTAC 2 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current — Thursday, May 5, 2011 -al L BY WALKER A Senior livinS L.rrnrn Assisted Living Memory Care Care Suites Respite Living 20150 Highview Avenue l Lakeville, MN 55044 www.HighviewHiih.com eA mrmh. r of th. Vc'alhc. Mahodi..t family of foal, noo-prutit ■■ MEMO OMB OMMOO ■M ME OM EOM UMW MO • M MO WOO M EMU M■ MORON NM • MM NOM ■M M MOM MO MOM ■■ @ M • MO MO MO ■M M ■MMMM ■■ MOM MU ■ ■MMMM ■■ ■ M ■ ■ M■ Ms: z 'MOMS ■■M Mks:' ■ ■ M■ ■M:rt ApplianceSmarf Factory Outlet www.ApplianceSmart.com Apple Valley • Champlin Maplewood St. Louis Park • St. Paul Rochester • Rogers Prices and availability subject to change. See store for details. In the Community,With the Community, For the Community TRAINING: FROM PAGE 1 Prevention. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design teaches property owners a disciplinary approach to deter- ring criminal behavior through environ- mental design of one's property - for example, altering landscape by cutting a pine tree or trimming shrubbery to avoid hiding places. "Ten -feet tall, overgrown shrubs and trees allow for great hiding spots for bad people," Anselment said. She said Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design has proven to be useful for many residents. However, she cautions people to heed these crime pre- vention strategies before incidents occur. "People have recommended us for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design surveys of their homes," Anselment said. "Unfortunately, it's often after a burgla- ry when someone would call us up for help on that." The Terrorism Awareness and Prevention program, which Anselment said is a new addition to this year's training, will assist citizens in under- standing and identifying terrorists or terrorist activity, and on how to properly COMMUNITY NEWS report this type of criminal activity to the police. "It gives the attendees an overview of terrorism. When people think of terror- ism they think of international terror- ism; domestic terrorism, such as the shooting of Congresswoman Giffords, happens everyday," Anselment said. "We want to train our landlords to detect characteristics of terrorists by identify- ing behaviors and that sort of thing. For example, there are hate groups that com- mit terrorism everyday." The training includes two other speakers: a housing specialist and a housing attorney. The specialist, Anselment said, is a longtime manager who has vast experience and knowledge with landlord -tenant law and issues related to it. The attorney works with HOME Line (a nonprofit statewide ten- ant advocacy organization). One person who has already regis- tered for the training program is Ramsey Boyd, a 10-year resident of Eagan who takes a great interest in his city and reducing crime in its residen- tial areas. Boyd is the maintenance man- ager at Boulder City Apartments. He also serves a volunteer position as the vice president of Eagan's crime -free multi -housing coalition. "We represent the apartments and www.minnlocal.com -Thursday, May 5, 2011- Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eaganlun-Current 21 Danielle represents the police depart- ment," Boyd said. "It's vital that we work together and we come up with new ideas to keep our apartments safe and clean." Boyd said it'S pertinent for apartment managers to work with the police, explaining that crime can be reported to one or the other, but the combination is necessary to remove troublesome ten- ants. "There is a fine line withwhere we take off and they take over and vice versa," he said. "The police department can't officially remove someone from their property. We go to court with their documentation to have them removed. Essentially, if we don't work together there's nothing that can be done." With the economic downturn, Boyd recognizes an increase in single-family homeowners who are leasing space as well. He addressed the importance for both types of landlords to be vigilant with protecting their property. "That's what they're training us [for], so that we're the eyes and ears and we have the ability to identify possible criminal activity," Boyd said. He said the training is especially valuable for potential first-time land- lords, and homeowners, in particular. He stressed the importance for them to become familiar with the rules and reg- ulations involved with'thb dynamics of the owner -tenant relationships. "[The training] is important so that they make sure they're getting the prop- er training to protect their invest- ments," Boyd said. "If you don't have the proper experience and follow the right guidelines, if they're going on their gut feeling [and] not doing background or criminal checks, then you don't know who you are renting to...It opens up them, and their neighborhood, to a high- er possibility of crime" According to the brochure for the training, other topics covered by this program include hoarding awareness and response, and handling evictions and drug situations. Some of benefits of the training list- ed in the brochure include: stable, more satisfied residents; increased demand for rental units; stronger reputation; lower maintenance and repair costs; increased property value; improved per- sonal safety and peace of mind. The registration deadline was listed as May 1. However, Anselment said late registration would be accepted through Tuesday, May 10. For further information or to register for the training, contact Anselment at 651-675-5728 or go to xr.com/oobi. 22 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, May 5, 2011 — www.minnlocal.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community ""'""`"a1""1 �TRIBUTE TION Parents... Don't miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to let your senior know how proud you are! Clio This Form Visit www.mnSun.com for breaking news Hilling, Wallace E. Hilling, Wallace E., age 87 of Apple Valley, formerly of South St. Paul, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2011. Preceded in death by his wife, Marcella. Survived by his nieces and nephews: Jane & James Newton, Sue Rendall, David Zuehl & Jackie Parkinson, Paul & Jane Zuehl, James & Kathy Zuehl, Mary Beth & Kurt Kovanen, Phillip & Tammy Zuehl, Candace Marthaler & Mike Kwiek, Wendy Marthaler: sister-in-law: Audrey Manthey: also by other loving relatives and friends. 'special thanks to the staff of Centennial House and Fairview hospice. Funeral Service, Ilam Tuesday, May 3, 2011 at White Funeral Home (14560 Pennock Ave) Apple Valley. Visitation from 10-11am prior to the service. Interment: Fort Snelling. White Funeral Home Apple Valley COMMUNITY NEWS Robert Trail programs The Dakota County Robert Trail Library, 14395 S. Robert Trail in Rosemount, will host the following upcoming programs. All programs are free of charge, but advance registra- tion is sometimes necessary. • "Beyond Computer Basics" meets 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, May 11. Must have completed Computer Basics class and be able to use the mouse. • Book Club meets Tuesday, May 31. "The Lace Reader" will be dis- cussed. • Teens may register to become a Volunteen to help with the Children's Summer Reading program. Registration starts May 1, and orienta- tion is 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 11. • Japanmania with Art Start meets 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 5. Learn about Japanese culture as you create decorative ornaments using origami folded -paper techniques. Registration required; online at the DCL website, or call 651-480-1200. • Anime-Manga meets 2:30 p.m. Thursday, May 12. Watch and review anime with other fans and discuss manga. • Teen Advisory Group, meets Thursday, May 26. Opinion/4A . MAY 6, 2011 VOL Announcements/6A Sports/7A Recession means more are aging in place, study says Aging community coupled with real estate slump means fewer housing options for young families in Eagan by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Officials have long known that Eagan, which saw most of its develop- ment in the 1980s and '90s, is an aging city. Less well known was to what degree the reces- sion has affected the city's aging population and, consequently, its housing stock. A recent study com- missioned by the city from the Urban Land Institute is helping put a finer point on the issue for city officials. The study shows that Eagan's housing turn- over rate has slowed since 2004. In fact, 70 percent of all Eagan households did not move between 2004 and 2009, the study found. Generally, that can be a good thing for a commu- nity, said Jon Hohenstein, Eagan's director of com- munity development. "One of the strengths of our community has been stability in our neighborhoods. It's a place where people like to put down roots and stay," he said. As people age, lifestyle changes often lead to dif- ferent housing needs, such as smaller spaces, one -lev- el living, and shared main- tenance. "In a normal economy, people move when it's right for them," he said. But one of the effects of the recession has been a drop in home values and equity, which can make older residents delay mov- See Aging, 15A tibaUfrom 1A The cases will be "pursued eparately in the coming months," Backstrom said. Stibal also faces six child -pornography counts stemming from material po- lice found on his computer. `What will be a separate pros- ecution, Backstrom said. Stibal, who had been free on $500,000 bail, was ordered into custody im- mediately after Tuesday's conviction by Judge Edward Lynch. The county attorney's office is seeking an upward departure from state sen- tencing guidelines. A hear- ing on the matter will be held before Lynch. Stibal has waived his right to a jury decision on the request, Backstrom said. Before his arrest on Oct. 19, 2009, Stibal routinely violated Boy Scout policy requiring that adult leaders not be alone with Scouts, Troop 650 parents have said. A former Troop 650 committee member who had a nephew in the troop told Thisweek in October 2009 that Stibal seemed to play favorites among the boys and sometimes took Scouts on trips — movies, bowling, the State Fair — outside of normal scouting functions. Boys who came for- ward to police detailed sex crimes at Stibal's cabin near Paynesville, where he was arrested, at his home at 642 Portland Mews, at Boy Scout camps in Stea- rns County and Hubbard County, at a movie theater in Eagan and at a drive-in theater in Cottage Grove. He was hired at First Student, the school bus contractor for Burnsville - Eagan -Savage School Dis- trict 191, in 2007. Stibal coordinated special -educa- tion bus routes and occa- sionally filled in as a driver, Backstrom said in October 2009. He was granted a leave shortly before his ar- rest. A member of Mary, Mother of the Church in Burnsville since childhood, Stibal was one of seven adults on two youth mission trips to Mexico in 2008 and 2009, a church official said in October 2009. Stibal is unmarried and has no children. John Gessner is at burnsville. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Reaction/from lA Jason had just arrived in Afghanistan, to drive tanks for the Army, on the very same day of bin Laden's death. "I'm curious if he knew about it. Did they tell him in-flight? On the ground?" Brevig said, adding that she wondered if this will mean more retaliation or more calm in Afghanistan. "Will it be better now or worse?" Repya said he expects the war will continue for "many more years" as the United States and its allies battle bin Laden's followers who will take up where he left off. Randy Goeke of Apple Valley said he believes bin Laden's death is an indica- tion that the United States RiLC should begin sending troops home. "I think with the infor- mation they gathered, things will move more quickly — that's exciting. We need to get them home," said Goeke, whose son, Christopher, was killed last year in combat in Afghanistan. Ali Hatoum, owner of Morning Glory's Bakery Cafe in Rosemount, said he believes the United States' best hope in winning the war is by reaching out to youths in the Middle East. Hatoum, a Muslim native e if p h e; 0 ry of nt at Aging/from 1A ing, said Cathy Bennett of the ULI. "Overall, our nation is aging, and the recession e has contributed to more baby boomers not having " options to sell their house d and move into other types of housing," she said. The recession has also stalled the building of new housing that might be at- tractive to older residents, so there are fewer places to move, Hohenstein said. Indeed, the study found the most significant drop in turnover of households was for those 55 and older liv- ing in single-family homes. "The share of young- er households in owned single-family housing has been decreasing. Most of , this decline is seen in homes built between 1980 and 1999," the study said. "Due to slow turnover and aging in place, a growing propor- tion of the homes built be- fore 1980 are in the hands of households ages 55 and older." While low turnover s can indicate residents are happy with their hous- ing choice, turnover that is too low could "reduce opportunities for younger households to locate in 'the city, or could indicate that older residents are not able to move due to underwa- ter mortgages, loss of jobs or lack of downsizing op- tions," the study said. Overall, the study found Eagan has a stable house- hold base with some diver- sity of housing options, in both owner and renter -oc- cupied housing. "I think the city has a pretty good mix," Hohen- stein said. "You want peo- ple to find opportunities to live their entire life cycle in one city. That's been our goal." But when there is too little natural turnover, neighborhoods — particu- larly single-family neigh- borhoods — can all age at the same time. "You don't get the vital- ity of families and young kids, the mix of ages that help sustain an area," he said. Households headed by people under age 35 have been moving away from higher -priced, single-family homes, as have households ages 35 to 54, the study said. Rather than young households leaving Eagan, "this pattern suggests that there are not enough new homeowners coming into the city to overcome the inertia of households aging in place," the study said. Bennett said Eagan is far from alone in facing this is- sue. "Metrowide, this is an is- sue. Eagan is not unusually different than other cities," she said. Hohenstein agreed. "There are probably a lot of cities, if not most cities, that are dealing with this," he said. "It's a chal- lenge that's shared and an opportunity for us all to re- spond." While the issue is impor- tant, it's not an imminent threat, he said: The median age of Eagan residents is still 48. Having identified the problem, the city can now better respond to it, he said. "Where we have the op- portunity, we'll attempt to encourage development that's responsive to the de- mographic trends the study identified," he said. While the city can't pro- vide housing options, it can THISWEEK May 6, 2011 15A guide the developers who do. For example, the city could emphasize including some senior alternatives as part of the housing mix in redevelopment areas, even commercial areas that may have more walkability, he said. The City Council has identified several initiatives within the study for staff to research further, including housing renovation loan programs and allowing "granny flats" or carriage houses to be added to prop- erties for more housing op- tions. Recommendations on those programs will be brought back to the council at a later date. Meanwhile, the city will continue to explore ways to stay attractive to current and future residents, Ho- henstein said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Multiple Policies. One agent. ^4 t1; \ A-Vf 1 I can help you save time & mnnev I 6A May 6, 2011 THISWEEK Burnsville Burnsville Lions host antique appraisal The Burnsville Lions Club will host the Antiques Appraisals Roadshow from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Mary, Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Road E., Library/from l A be carted into the meeting room for computer classes. A teen area has been add- ed, Wisser said. The library walls have been insulated, and sheet - rock now covers the cinder- block And the decor has been updated, with sheetrock now covering walls of dull cinder- block that gave the library an institutional feel. The color scheme includes soothing greens and blues, Wisser said. The carpeting has also been replaced. "There will be a nice as- sortment of new books," she said. "We've been purchas- ing new items that whole time that we were closed." With nearly 327,000 visi- tors in 2009, Burnhaven is the third -busiest of the nine county libraries, behind Galaxie in Apple Valley and Wescott in Eagan, Wisser Burnsville. Bring two items. Admission is $10. Eleven expert appraisers will determine values while guests have homemade des- serts, coffee and cider. Appraisers include: • Jim Marrinan (folk art, militaria, Orien- tal, glass, stamps, coins, fur- niture) • Bonnie Lindberg (fine art, paintings, prints, sculpture) • Micky Mariette from Touch of Home (general gifts and antiques) • Wally Wegleitner — American sporting collect- ibles • Marla from Shakopee Trading Post (Native Amer- ican jewelry, artifacts) • Josh Stevens from A New Day Auctions (toys) • Jay from Jay F. Jeweler (silver, gold, sterling) • Bunny from Bunny's Antiques (pre-1950s items, costume jewelry) • Derek from AntiQues Minnesota • Alex Bernstein from Willmatt Hill (icons, art THE MOST QUIET AND EFFICIENT CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONER YOU CAN BUY. Airics Heating, LLC. 16067 310th St. New Prague, MN nouveau) Appraisers will have computers. Price books will be available for review. A door prize will be pro- vided by the Burnsville Li- ons Club for a $50 restau- rant gift certificate. The Lions support local projects including eye glass- es for needy children, lo- cal food shelves, and more. Used eyeglasses will be ac- cepted at the show. For more information, visit http://lionwap.org/ eclub/sites/BURNSVILLE. Mental health calls increasing • Eagan police have seen a spike in overdoses, attempted suicides and other such calls over the past few years. By HERON MARQUEZ ESTRADA hme@startribune.com On a recent weekend in Eagan, a despondent woman tried to kill her- self by swallowing a bunch of pills. The next day, another woman was found in her car, semi-nude and semi -conscious, by police patrolling a residential neighborhood. Next to her were a suicide note and an emp- ty bottle of prescription pain med- icine. Later that same day, a man talking to his psychiatrist threatened to kill himself with a gun he had nearby. According to Eagan police, who re- sponded to all three calls, these and other mental health incidents are not only becoming more common, they are increasing at an alarming rate in Dakota County's largest city. "What got my attention is that I can't go a day without looking at a group of reports without there being something in there regarding mental health," Police Chief James McDon- ald said. "Just today we had one." That call involved a debt collec- tor who had called a 28-year-old who seemed suicidal. The collector called Eagan police. An informal review of reports and calls for service, McDonald said, found that these types of mental health calls handled by the 69 sworn officers in his department have gone up 28 percent in the past three years. Eagan continues on N2 ► RISE IN MENTAL HEALTH CALLS Police mental health -related calls in Eagan are on the rise. They include calls for suicide or attempted suicide, overdoses and welfare checks on residents. Total calls 2007 2008 2009 2010 Source: Eagan Police Department Mendota Heights approves sale of old A purchase agreement for the sale of Heights fire hall lot was approved by the week. Plans call for the lot to be used by the House to expand. The sale price is $50,000. The land still needs to be rezoned from low B-2 commercial uses. At a later time, the redevelopment of the lot will need to g ning Commission and City Council. City Council Member Ultan Duggan s with the agreement, noting that the lot ha piece of land that we've tried to sell for so City Council Member Jack Vitelli agre "The Fisherville building is kind of a h really don't see a way to build and take a site without providing parking. And the o ing to get that kind of parking is if we're lot," Vitelli said. Mayor Sandra Krebsbach, however, voi about the rezoning, saying that it wasn't ap site, which is near some homes. Junk King wanting to expand to Got junk? A new full -service junk removal franc the Twin Cities area and wants to help wit Junk King, which uses the slogan "Just panding in the Midwest and hopes to soon locations in Minnesota, one of which will "Everyone has clutter and unwanted ite the time or ability to dispose of it properly, fillan, the master franchisee responsible fo Junk King brand in Minnesota. The company provides disposal servi items, from old furniture and appliances t automotive parts, and from both homes long as the junk is not hazardous materi The California -based company claims much as 90 percent of what it has colle months. Junk King wants to open a Burnsville to a franchisee, said Liz Durkin, a junk Kin representative. It is also planning to open St.Paul and Minneapolis as well as a loca There are currently no definite plans fo Junk King will open those sites, however, chisee partners. The franchise, which was founded in 22 locations across the country. Nicole Norfleet • 612-673-4495 dakota county CONTACT THE STAFF Team leader • Dylan Belden 952-882-4938 dbelden@s Reporter • Katie Humphrey 952-882-9056 katie.humph Reporter • Sarah Lemagie 952-882-9016 slemagie@st Reporter • Joy Powell 952-882-9017 jpowell@startrib Reporter • Nicole Norfleet 952-707-9995 nicole.norfle Reporter • Heron Marquez 952-707-9994 hme@startr Reporter • Jim Adams 952-707-9996 jadams@startri HELPFUL NUMBERS Advertising • Mike Maslow 612-673-4106 mmaslow Star Tribune Fax • 612-673-4359 Delivery quests CORRECTIONS The Star Tribune is committed to correcting errors tha newspaper or online. Concerns about accuracy can be corrections@startribune.com. You may also call 612-67 Eagan police a GAN F OM N1 McDonald said his depart- ment is not alone in detecting this surge. He said he has talked to other departments and chiefs in the south metro and around the Twin Cities and they all have the same story. Officers more and more are dealing with men- tal health calls for service. The numbers don't tell the whole story, the chief said. Sui- cides, welfare calls and oth- er mental health cases are not classified as crimes among the Y ,541-4ltiil�1' e getting a rising number of mental health calls more than 50,000 calls for ser- vice that the department han- dles each year. Crimes with a mental health component, or that are caused by a mental health issue, such as a double homicide and suicide last Au- gust, are counted in the homi- cide or other criminal statistics compiled by police. The increase in mental health calls comes at a time when the city's crime rate, like that in most cities, is falling. In fact, crime in Eagan is down for the past 10 years, hitting a re- cord low in 2009. But about three years ago, McDonald said, he started no- ticing the uptick in mental health cases. Those numbers have been growing, spiking last year to more than 1,000, or an average of about three a day for the department. The number of drug over- doses in the city, for example, is up over the past four years, sur- passing 200. The number of at- tempted suicides also has risen since 200Z hitting 257 in 2010. Although Eagan and other departments do not have hard proof as to what is causing the increases, McDonald believes much of it is being driven by the difficult economy of the past three years, as well as the increasing number of veterans returning from conflicts over- seas during that time. Chaska Police Chief Scott Knight said his department of 24 officers saw an increase in the number of suicide attempts two years ago at the depths of the Great Recession. "Nothing as dramatic [as Eagan], but enough to give us pause," Knight said. Both Knight and McDonald said they have not had an offi- cer injured as a result of dealing with mentally ill people. Neither department has as yet shifted resources do deal with the uptick, either, al- though McDonald did bring in the National Guard in 2007 to talk to his officers about the stresses that returning veter- ans would be under. Also, McDonald said, he ex- pects to give his officers more education and in-service train - MORE NEWS, NOTES AND EVENTS AT WWW.STARTRIBUNE.COM/SOUTH ing to deal with mental health calls, although he hopes that the increase is a temporary trend that will flatten as the economy improves nationally. But as of now, there is noth- ing to indicate that the trend is even slowing. "There is a lot of it out there," McDonald said. "It's society -re- lated. This is bigger than us. We're just a piece in the puzzle. It's something more that we are reacting to." Heron Marquez • 952-707.9994 e checked last week in their ef- fort to cut costs on a $375,000 hock- ey training center to be built on city land next to its ice arena. is Arena. But the council voted 7-0 Monday to stick with the proposal they en- dorsed Last summer. That resolu- He expects the boosters will have to reduce the size of the 3,500 square - foot facility or raise more money. Chorney said a local contractor ENOUGH SPEED FOR EVERYONE. AND THEIR MOTHER. A busy family shouldn't have to wait on slow DSL. Switch to Charter Internet for the fastest Internet speeds' to download, upload, and stream instantly. With Charter, your entire family can let it all in, all at the same time. that paying prevailing wage rough up the boosters' budget. Hockey continues on N4 ► 1 CHARTER INTERNET' Starting at $1999 per mo for 3 mos* `as part of our 2-Year Price Guarantee 1. Charter 1-866-954-3040 chartercom Anthony Caponi in 2007 EAGAN Art park to celebrate founder's birthday Caponi Art Park at 1205 Diffley Road in Eagan will cel- ebrate the 90th birthday of its founder, Anthony Caponi, with an open house from 1-4 p.m. May 7. For more than 40 years Caponi — an Italian - born sculptor, author and art professor emeritus at Macalester College from 1942-1991— has been devel- oping the Caponi Art Park and Learning Center on 60 acres in Eagan. It opened to the public for tours in 1987, and in 1992, a non-profit corporation was formed to expand its pro- grams. Caponi has been a pioneer in the movement to pro- mote public art, community involvement in art and open - space preservation, and he continues to actively shape the direction of the art park. Visitors will be able to explore the park and enjoy an afternoon of performers, art activities and games — as well as some birthday cake. A formal presentation honoring Caponi is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more in- formation, go to wwwcaponiartpark.org/birthday. cruit Ty McDevitt had been shut down indefinitely because of an in- jury to his throwing shoulder. "We were devastated when Ty told us the news," junior pitcher Adam Moorse said. McDevitt visited Minnesota Twins physician Dan Buss and was told to stop throwing, according to head coach Tom Strey. "He's such a competitor that he would do anything to get back in there again, but I don't know how practical that is," said Strey, the 10th-year head coach. The ensuing course of action will be critical. Fortunately for Eastview, the squad has the talent, leadership and Strey's key word, "resiliency," to move on. "Just trying to survive these rough times and look for better times ahead," Strey said. Better times came sooner rath- er than later. After a pep talk, the Class 3A, loth -ranked Lightning regained its composure and pulled out a 5- 4 extra -innings victory over sixth - ranked Burnsville on Monday af- ternoon. Just what the doctor ordered. "Boy, we needed that," senior closer and Niagara University re- cruit Tom Jerle said. "We've been playing below our standards lately." While Eastview might have lost one of the state's better arms, pitch- ing still is considered one of its strengths. Moorse threw five shut- out innings against Rosemount and allowed only one unearned run against Hopkins. Senior Alec Knop Eastview junior Adam sity of Minnesota rec [WE'� THESE FOR BE Eastview baseball c Giving comfort through quiItsl Local quilting -- I group donates ■ blankets for victims to Eagan Police Department by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The littlest victims at crash or crime scenes are of- ten scared, cold, or in need of comfort, said Eagan Po- lice Chief Jim McDonald. Something as simple as a warm, soft blanket can make a big difference, he said. "Every kid likes a blan- ket to hold onto," he said. "It gives them support and comfort." With that in mind, a quilting group from River Valley Church in Apple Valley recently donated a See Quilts, 14A General 952-894-1111 Distribution 952-846-2070 Display Advertising 952-846-2011 Classified Advertising 952-846-2000 8 34493 00023 6 Photo by Enn Johnson Eagan Police Chief Jim McDonald (center) and Lt. Steve Bolluyt accept a donation of blankets from Maggie Cedarberg, left, and other members from a quilting group from River Valley Church in Apple Valley. The quilts will be kept in squad cars to be given to victims. )7.4 7-011 i 'OOP' ‘'W Pfli)01500 EXT 4x4, 47,000 miles $23,900 0 ` RAY 00 Li, 4x4, Crew Cab, 45,000 miles $27,800 to sitvcruinn 1WW 2 wd., Crew Cab, 63,000 miles $17,800 4x4, 92,000 miles $13,900 lOO7 TR0lLRL07P Fresh Trade, 79,000 miles $14,900 �, � 1"1" "0 2500 r 4x4, 100,000 miles $12,900 A002 SWUM 4x4,15,000 miles $14,900 4x4, 91,000 miles $9,900 2005 COBALT $8,900 2003 S10 EXT 4X4 $9,900 2004 SILVERADO $7,90r 2005 500 SEL $7,900 2003 BENZ C240 $9,6uu 2000 SILVERADO $6,900 Become a fan of Jeff Belzer's on Facebook & Twitter to receive additional specials JeffBelzer.com 888-794-2535 4 st of a a an en in In ns re, as "rive 4✓er c Quilts/from 1A ti Io b.. F pile of handmade quilts for Eagan officers to carry in their squad cars. The group has donated 27 quilts so far, with a goal of supplying two for each of the department's 22 squad cars. Each quilt is hand made of new material donated by church and group members, and each features an Eagan Police Department patch. "It's kind of heartwarm- ing that they're thinking of us and thinking of others in the community that could use those blankets," Mc- Donald said. The quilting group has met every week for the past four years and is one of many "life" groups within River Valley Church that focuses on different inter- ests, said member Maggie Cedarberg. "It's not just us old folks that do it, it's a mixture. We have quilters that are every decade from 20 to 70," she said. "And it's so fun for the old and young to get togeth- er. We learn from each other and share our lives." The group so far has made 120 quilts that have been given to about 17 dif- ferent organizations and in- dividuals. "It's not just making the quilts, it's helping each oth- er out," she said. "It's really good medicine for all of us." Cedarberg said members got the idea for donating the quilts to police when speak- ing with a pastor in St. Paul. The pastor said she had heard about a police officer giving a wounded victim his coat because the victim was cold. "She said that's not good, the caregiver cannot get cold because then they can't give care," she said. Inspired, Cedarberg called the Eagan Police De- partment and asked if they could use blankets. McDonald said the blan- kets are not only helpful for children, but also for vic- tims of medical emergencies and those who may be in shock. "We can leave the blan- kets at scenes when we need to," he said. Cedarberg's daughter Emily is already in talks with Shakopee police about donating quilts, she said. "I guess our deal is, (we give to) whoever needs a lift, whoever needs to feel loved and cared for. That's really our main goal, is to make people see that people care," she said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc. corn. pro- gram of District 196 is seek- ing instrument donations for students who want to play but cannot afford to rent or purchase an instru- ment. Flutes and clarinets are especially needed. Do- nations are tax deductible. Instruments can be dropped off at Oak Ridge Elementary School, 4350 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Eagan. Instruments should include donor's name, ad- dress and phone number so a receipt can be sent. Those unable to bring their donations to Oak Ridge should send an e-mail to bandforall@district 196. org to make other arrange- ments for donation. Cash donations also are accepted to repair donated instruments and to „pur- chase supplies for students who use them. Cash do- nations should be sent to Valley Middle School, c/o Cindy Hanson, 900 Garden View Drive, Apple Valley, MN 55124. Checks should be made to "District 196 Valley Middle School" with "Band For All" in the memo line. The Band For All ness, a series of four semi- IIIW 3cli71g MN, „rro-Fymg �-i_ a croual 11� center and construction of and senior center. Band For All Business start-up program seeks series set instruments Starting Your Own Busi- nars for people who are interested in starting a busi- ness of their own or are new business owners, will be of- fered from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays during May at Diamondhead Education Center, 200 W. Burnsville Parkway, Burnsville. The series includes: • May 4, How to Start Your Own Business — de- signed to determine if you are ready to begin a busi- ness. • May 11, Marketing and Advertising Your Business — will assist participants in developing an effective mar- keting and advertising plan. • May 18, Legal Aspect and Financial Management — introduces participants to various business structures and financial issues. • May 25, Developing Your Business Plan — will assist participants in creat- ing the essential start-up business "road map." Cost of each seminar is $29, or $99 for all four semi- nars. Register online at www communityed191.org. For more information, call ISD 191 (Burnsville -Eagan -Sav- age) Adult Continuing Edu- cation at (952) 707-4110. 7"111 S' w E c-: y/Zrfzotl aponi/from 1 A o be thoroughly engaged n life as an artist and is omething that should be celebrated." The Caponi Art Park opened to visitors in 1987. Caponi said he was in- spired to create the space by his childhood in Italy. "I was born in a small village where everything was open country. I was conditioned to appreciate nature," he said. There weren't many trees where he grew up, he said, so when he bought land in Eagan filled with oak and other trees, "I felt rich. I wanted to protect it." The park allowed him to marry his love of art with his love of nature, and he has spent the past 30 years developing it into a center for learning and the arts. While he's lived a full, rich life, Caponi said he doesn't feel old enough for all the fuss occurring over his 90th birthday. "I don't want to start acting like an old man," he said. "I'll keep on thinking young." For more information, visit www.caponiartpark. org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. City Briefs Local communities receive redevelopment project grant The Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA) Board of Commissioners approved $1 million in Redevelop- ment Incentive Grants on April 19. Local cities receiv- ing grants include: • Burnsville — $250,000 to assist with the relocation of tenants in the Valley Ridge Shopping Center located at the intersection of County Road 5 and Highway 13. Future plans include de - a 140-unit senior housin development. • Eagan — $175,000 t demolish three properties i the Cedar Grove core are and improvements to a pub lic parking lot that allow for cross -use parking nea two remaining businesses in the area. • Rosemount — $120,000 to demolish and remove hazardous materials fro the former St. Joseph' School to make way for th Th. APRIL 29, 2011 VOLUME 32, NO. 9 www.thisweeklive.com fkinon' Live, from Chicago, comedy comes to Burnsville on Saturday night. See Thisweekend Page 6A. n A NEWS OPINION SPORTS Announcements/5A Mother's Day/7A Classifieds/8A Sports/12A Public Notices/'14A Submitted photo Caponi Art Park founder and sculptor Anthony Caponi will celebrate his 90th birthday with a public celebration from 1 to 4 p.m. on May 7 at the park. Caponi Art Party founder celebrates 90th birthday Public open house May 7 will feature cake, music, crafts and coincide with opening of park for 2011 season by Erin Johnson The celebration coincides with go beyond his own 60-acre park. THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS the opening of the park for the For instance, while teaching at Anthony Caponi is nothing if 2011 season. Macalester, he was a driving force not a visionary. "It's extra special this year be- in creating the Janet Wallace Fine In 1949, the sculptor and Ma- cause it actually falls on his real Arts Center, and he also built the calester College professor bought birthday, and we thought it would first metal foundry in a school. more than 60 acres of land in be really fun to celebrate that," According to his biography, he Eagan and knew right away he said Molly Swailes, program and rediscovered how to cast metal us - wanted to protect it. volunteer coordinator for the ing the lost -wax process by read - "I see this as a beautiful re- Caponi Art Park. ing Benvenuto Cellini's autobi- source," he said. "I started being The event is free and will in- ography in its original medieval protective of natural environ- elude a formal presentation hon- Italian, successfully introducing ments before it was popular." oring Caponi at 1:30 p.m. the process for others to use. Today, the Caponi Art Park Caponi said that at 90, he may He has also written two books, gets about 15,000 visitors each not be as physically strong as he the most recent of which, "Mean - year who enjoy everything from used to be, but his mind remains ing Beyond Reason," was pub - the sculptures that dot the land- sharp. lished this month. scape to the summer perfor- "Maybe I got to be 90 because "Anthony Caponi is a vital mantes held at the Theater in the I never thought about being an community leader and advocate Woods. old man. I've always had youthful for the arts," said Craig Harris, Caponi himself will turn 90 ideas, I have a youthful appetite artist and chair of the Caponi years old Saturday, May 7, and to for life," he said. Art Park's board. "His long and celebrate, his namesake park will Born in Italy, Caponi has lived distinguished career as a sculp- hold a public open house from 1 in Minnesota for more than 55 tor, teacher, art administrator and to 4 p.m. complete with cake, mu- years and has made contributions writer exemplifies what it means sic, activities and games. • to the state's art community that See Caponi, 14A 2A April 29, 2011 THISWEEK Economy rough on pets in need, organization trving to help them Last Hope garage sale set, donations needed by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Farmington -based ani- mal rescue organization Last Hope has been turn- ing away as many dogs and cats as it takes in since the Minnesota Valley Humane Society closed in Burnsville Dec. 31. "We are constantly get- ting calls from people who have 11- and 12-year-old animals. There's no way we can place them... Minneso- ta Valley (Humane Society) would probably have taken them," said Last Hope Pres- ident Bev Orr. Last Hope, a 26-year-old nonprofit, relies on about 80 volunteers to provide foster care in their homes for dogs, puppies, kittens and cats until the pets are adopted; the need is great, and they are always looking for more foster homes. Since Last Hope's found- ing, it has placed 38,000 pets, but Orr said the econ- omy is making it increas- ingly difficult to place ani- mals and they are turning needy animals away because foster homes are full. "I don't know what's happening to those ani- mals," Orr said. While the need is increas- Children's Country Day School Summer on the Farm For Children ages 2-6 *Swimming *Pony Rides *Farm Animals *Gardens *And so much more! Open House ing, adoptions are slowing. Last Hope adoptions dropped from about 1,500 in 2009 to 1,375 last year. This year, it is proving most challenging to find homes for adult cats. Orr is expecting even more calls for animals in need because of Rose - mount's new budget -driven policy to stop impounding stray cats. Orr emphasized the need for people to have their pets spayed and neutered, shar- ing several sad tales of sick mom cats and kittens. "We try so hard to get people to be aware of the suffering that goes on out there," Orr said. While the organization has a few dedicated con- tributors, funds are also a struggle. To help pay for veteri- nary bills, food and sup- plies, Last Hope is holding a garage sale May 10 to May 14 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in a small retail space located next to Akin Pet Hospital, 18400 Pilot Knob Road, Farmington. Tax-deductible dona- tions of good used furni- ture, toys, dishes, appli- Photo by Laura Adelmann Last Hope volunteer Bev Pogalz holds Brody, a Chihuahua she fostsered through Last Hope. Brody was adopted during during a Saturday adoption day at the Apple Valley Petco, and she is preparing for her next canine in need, a doxie. ances and more are being every Saturday. For more accepted until May 9 and information visit, www.last- merchandise drop-offs can hope.org. be arranged by calling (651) 463-8739. Laura Adelmann is at Laura. Pet adoption days are adelmann@ecm-inc. com. Woman sues clinic over prescription by Jessica Harper THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A Rosemount woman filed suit earlier this month against Park Nicollet Clinic Burnsville Urgent Care. In the April 12 malprac- tice suit, Mary Lee Thomp- son of Rosemount alleges that in June 2007 she was over -prescribed an antihis- tamine called Hydroxyzine r. puL \ 4.O1JLl r sure. Thompson said she will seek damages if she loses her home. In court documents, Thompson admits she has had seizures in the past, but stated that she had not suf- fered from one in 30 years prior to the 2007 incident. and put it in the trash," she Park Nicollet's legal said in an interview with counsel, Victoria Wagner, documents 4A April 22, 2011 THISWEEK Burnsville Burnsville Center begins renovations Burnsville Center has be- gun preparations for a five - month, multimillion dollar floor renovation. The first half of the renovation be- gins on the upper level, with new carpet starting at Sears and continuing towards Macy's to be completed by June 2011. The second half will start in summer, with new tile on the lower level and a scheduled completion date of September 2011. Starting now through June, Burnsville Center asks that all early morning walk- ing be done on the lower level of the mall as the up- per level of the mall will be closed until 9:30 a.m. The upper level mall entrances will be closed until 9:30 a.m. but the lower level doors will open at the normal, hours of 7 a.m. Monday -Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday. All mall entrance doors and levels will be open by 9:30 a.m. Monday -Saturday. For more information, go online at BurnsvilleCenter. com. Burnsville Lions Club to host antique appraisal The Burnsville Lions Club will host the Antiques Appraisals Roadshow from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Mary, Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Road E., Burnsville. Bring two items. Admission is $10. Eleven expert appraisers will determine values while guests have homemade des- serts, coffee and cider. Appraisers include: • Jim Marrinan (folk art, militaria, Orien- tal, glass, stamps, coins, fur- niture) • Bonnie Lindberg (fine art, paintings, prints, sculpture) • Micky Mariette from Touch of Home (general gifts and antiques) • Wally Wegleitner — American sporting collect- ibles • Marla from Shakopee Trading Post (Native Amer- ican jewelry, artifacts) • Josh Stevens from A New Day Auctions (toys) • Jay from Jay F. Jeweler (silver, gold, sterling) • Bunny from Bunny's Antiques (pre-1950s items, costume jewelry) • Derek from AntiQues Minnesota • Alex Bernstein from Willmatt Hill (icons, art nouveau) Appraisers will have computers. Price books will be available for review. A door prize will be pro- vided by the Burnsville Li- ons Club for a $50 restau- rant gift certificate. The Lions support local projects including eye glass- es for needy children, lo- cal food shelves, and more. Used eyeglasses will be ac- cepted at the show. For more information, visit http://lionwap.org/ eclub/sites/BURNS V ILLE . Frontier hired to manage, market Burnsville fiber-optic network The city of Burnsville has selected Frontier Com- munications to manage and market its fiber-optic net- work. The three-year agree- ment allows Frontier Com- munications to utilize an unused portion of the city's fiber-optic network at no cost. In return, the commu- nications company will pro- vide line locate services to Burnsville and market ad- ditional unused ca a� on have a single point of con- tact with Frontier for man- agement and maintenance of the fiber network on a day-to-day basis. Operational since 2009, Burnsville's fiber network interconnects municipal utility and related gov- ernmental facilities. The network is currently used primarily for connecting and monitoring the city's well and pumping stations. Under She aareement the Prayer breakfast in Burnsville The 2011 Burnsville Com- munity Prayer Breakfast will be held at 6:45 a.m. Friday, April 29, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center in Burnsville's Heart of the City. City officials from Burns- ville and other prominent state and local political, ju- dicial, and business leaders plan to come together for this community event. This year's keynote speak- er is former pro football THISWEEK April 22, 2011 3A Eagan Eagan man charged for strangling pregnant girlfriend by Erin Johnson THISREEK NEWSPAPERS An Eagan man is being charged for allegedly stran- gling his pregnant girlfriend during an argument until she almost passed out. Calvonzo Daylon Burnett Jr., 20, was charged in Hennepin County Dis- trict Court with one count of felony domestic assault by strangulation. According to the crimi- nal complaint, Burnett and his girlfriend, who is three months pregnant, were arguing in his car while parked at her Bloomington residence. The girlfriend told police she believes he is cheating on her, so she threw a glass of water at him. Burnett allegedly grabbed her by the neck with both hands and stran- gled her until she couldn't breathe and almost passed out. He then pushed her out of his car and drove away, the complaint said. Burnett admitted to police that he and his girl- friend were arguing and that he strangled her, but that he let go when she said she couldn't breathe. If convicted, Burnett faces up to three years in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Town hall meeting set in Eagan Sen. Ted Daley (R-Ea- gan), Rep. Doug Wardlow (R-Eagan), and Rep. Diane Anderson (R-Eagan), will host a joint Senate District 38 town hall meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on April 25 at the Wescott Library. Con- stituents are invited to at- tend. The legislators will share what has been happening at the Capitol and welcome a discussion of the concerns of the conununity. The library is located at 1340 Wescott Road, Eagan. Scoops for Troops set in Eagan The fourth annual dren's Education Fund and The event will include Scoops for Troops event will the Wounded Heroes Fund live music, celebrity scoo- be held in Eagan on Sunday, Registration and check- pers, and a silent auction. May 1. in for the run/walk will be- Umbria Gourmet Pizze- The event includes a 5K gin at 10:30 a.m. A pre -run ria will also sell slices during run and 3K walk held at ceremony at noon will fea- the ice cream social and do- Lexington/Diffley Fields in ture a military color guard nate 50 percent of proceeds Eagan, followed by an ice and a short speech and in- to Tribute to the Troops.. cream social at Ring Moun- vocation by Jeff Dexter, a Last year's event raised tain Creamery. former chaplain's assistant more than $10,000, accord - The event will raise mon- in the Army, followed by the ing to organizers. ey for Tribute to the Troops, National Anthem. The cost of the 5K run is a volunteer organization The ice cream social will $20 and the 3K walk is $15. that raises funds to benefit be held from 1 to 5 p.m. at To register before the soldiers and their families. Ring Mountain Creamery, event, visit www.scoopsfor- Money raised will go to the located at 1965 Cliff Lake troops.net. group's Fallen Heroes Chil- Road in Eagan. Lakes/from 1 A mainly from lawn clippings, leaves, fertilizer and street debris in stormwater runoff from driveways and streets draining into storm sewers connected to storm ponds and lakes," he said. Too much phosphorous can lead to excessive algae and plant growth, he said. "Everybody has to do their part because of the size of these areas," he said. "It does all add up." Forum participants will also learn about and be able to provide feedback on Ea- gan's comprehensive Storm - water Pollution Prevention Program. The forum will be held at Eagan City Hall in the Eagan Room on the second floor. The program will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m., with a formal presentation on the city's stormwater program at 6:15 p.m., and a separate presentation on the lake wa- ter quality project at 7 p.m. Even residents who don't live near or use Eagan's two largest lakes can benefit from the forum, Macbeth said. "The message that we convey in this meeting will have wide -reaching value for people no matter where they live in town,. he said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. s paint, big & sm, done to approval. Lic# 20626272 Insured. 952-380-6202 HANDY MAN Skilled, Christian, Honest, Affordable. 612-590-7555 R&J Construction • Decks • Basements • Kitchen/Bath Remod • Roofing & Siding • All Types of Tile Free Quotes & Ideas CaII Ra 952-484-3337 Gu Cu do ho me Painting & De Jerry's Painting Interior Exterior & Texture 952-894-7537/612-636-9501 Wolf Painting "Where quality is not an endangered species" INTERIOR/EXTERIOR Wood Finishing All Types of Repairs 612-232-7080 PAINTING FREE ESTIMATES • INSURED Full Interior & Exterior www.ktpointing.com Art 651-452-4802 • Ben's Painting • Interior/Exterior Drywall Repair Paint/Stain/Ceilings We accept Visa/MC/Discvr 952-432-2605 Custom Window Cover- ings, Bedspreads.uphlstry Flooring.35yrs exp Lake's Interiors 952-447-4655 Jack's Twin City Painting Interior or Exterior - "We Do It All, At a Great Price!" Call 612-501-6449 or email twincitypaint@yahoo.com "G **In Low 6 Da Int/Ex 29 yrs price. BBB Sus 3 A Ex Fre( 6! W 2 (DC) /_DC StarTribune nded3` met dakota WWW.STARTRIBUNE.COM/SOUTH • SECTION N • SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2011 Earth Day events in the south metro Good news, bad news: Eagan residents like it there • More staying longer, meaning others can't move in. By HERON MARQUEZ ESTRADA hme@startribune.com The city of Eagan is facing an old problem. Literally. A new report indicates that the city's population is not only aging, but aging in place. As a result, there is a backup in available housing for younger fami- lies which, longer term, might affect school enrollments, the availability of workers for area businesses, city rev- enues and the types of amenities the city might provide to its residents. In some ways, says Mark Ulfers, executive director of the Dakota County Community Development Agency, Eagan is a victim of its own success. In the past few decades, attracted by lifestyle, employment opportuni- ties and location, families flocked to the city, turning Eagan into one of the 10 largest cities in the state. But these families found life so satisfying that they have stayed on, even after their children are grown and gone. As a result, the city's older popu- lation is "aging in place," a common trend locally and nationally, accord- ing to housing and demographic ex- perts. "People want to stay in their home," said Ulfers, who has lived in Eagan for 28 years. "A lot of folks have been sat- isfied with Eagan and stayed. But it's kind of a good news, bad news thing. They like Eagan but they are [now] over -housed." The Great Recession This situation has been exacerbat- ed by the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, which has hindered or stopped many old- er residents, empty -nesters or not, from moving into something small- er or more affordable. Even those older residents who can afford to move are finding it difficult to find senior housing in the city. The Dakota County Community Eagan continues on N4 ► N2 • DAKOTA COUNTY • STAR TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2011 (DC) town square AROUND TOWN THE BUSINESS BEAT Linder'sFlowerMarket Rosemount eyes economic plan returns to Mendota Plaza. By NICOLE NORFLEET nicole.norfleet@startribune.com Linder's Flower Market is again selling its plants in Mendota Plaza in Mendota Heights. The city council recent- ly granted the longtime Mendota Plaza a condi- tional use permit to open a temporary garden center in the parking lot. "It's great to know it's the time of year for a flow- er market," said Mendota $20, which includes ac- cess to an appetizer bar and beverages. Interest- ed participants must reg- ister by Friday at http:// southsuburbaniaap.org. The event will take place at the Old Chicago restau- rant at 14998 Glazier Av. in Apple alley. The program will begin at 6:30 p.m. Renewal by Andersen ribbon -cutting scheduled April 27 A Burnsville Rosemount residents and business owners are invited to share their ideas about eco- nomic development during a special meeting Tuesday. The city wants to discuss current and potential initia- tives to create more jobs in the community. The discussion will take place during a special meet- ing of the Rosemount Port Au- thority at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the council chambers at Rosemount City Hall, 2875 145th St. W. Members of the City Coun- • _. - .._. • • .. 1. •• • the City Council that West St. Paul needed a deer manage- ment plan at this time. "It's about what I thought we would come across," said police officer Matt Muellner, who is helping coordinate the deer research. "The land there could probably support that number of deer." SOUTH METRO Why programs for kids matter Early childhood develop- ent as a building block to a "challenges" — from the Stillwater lift bridge to the gar- bage burner in Minneapolis, and Minnesota transportation department technology in gen- eral — will be featured in the premier episode tonight of"In- spector America," a new series on the History Channel. The show, scheduled for 9 p.m., highlights roads, bridg- es, tunnels and other public in- frastructure in six metro areas around the country to find out what works and what needs fixing. It's hosted by Timo- thy Galarnyk, a longtime infra- structure dakota county CONTACT THE STAFF Team leader • Dylan Belden 952-882-4938 dbeldenstartribune.com Reporter • Katie Humphrey 952-882-9056 katie.humphrey@startribune.com Reporter • Sarah Lemagie 952-882-9016 slemagie@startribune.com Reporter • Joy Powell 952-882-9017 jpowel I@startribune.com Reporter • Nicole Norfleet vgC Contentment good, bad in Eagan 4 EAGAN FROM N1 Development Agency (CDA), which builds and provides se- nior housing complexes, said there is a 6-18 month waiting list to get into senior com- plexes, even though Eagan has the most CDA senior housing projects in the county. "We have a robust pro- gram that provides afford- able housing for seniors," said Sara Swenson, a spokeswom- an for the county CDA. "Our seniors, when they do move in, also tend to age in place in our buildings as well. Turn- over is low." One of the biggest issues facing Eagan is that its turn- over, or resale rate, of homes owned by older residents is among the lowest in the met- ro area, according to the a re- cent study by the Urban Land Institute (ULI), which is work- ing with Eagan to address the issue. Because of this housing dy- namic, coupled with the fact that the city is almost fully developed, Eagan has higher land and housing values, thus the "aging in place" phenome- non, the ULI report says. "Even though the city has a wide range of housing choic- es, homes and residents are beginning to age, which pres- ents challenges ... [for the city to remain] attractive to young families and young profession- als," the ULI study says. The ULI found that the economy's collapse in 2008 also put up a major roadblock to the resale, or turnover rate, of homes owned by older res- idents, which the study classi- fied as those age 55 or older. The study notes that the overall turnover rate for all residents from 2004-09 was 6.8 percent, but that it de- clined each year. The. turn- over rate for single-family « IT'S NO SECRET THAT OUR POPULATION IS AGING. THE THING ... IS THAT PEOPLE AGE IN PLACE INDEFINITELY, THEN NEIGHBORHOODS DON'T REGENERATE. »» John Hohenstein, Eagan community development director homes was even lower — 2.7 percent. The lower turnover rate in housing owned by older resi- dents has in turn slowed the opportunity for renters, who are generally younger, to buy homes in Eagan, according to ULI. "Retention of households — even as they age — is a benefit for the city," the study states. However, "The progression of these individuals aging in place will make it increasing- ly difficult for younger house- holds to find single-family housing in the city. The major- ity of younger households are living in rental housing, and when they choose to move, they are leaving the city" The institute notes that Ea- gan's retention rate — peo- ple who moved but stayed in Eagan — was 28 percent from 2004-09, but that was lower than the Dakota County aver- age of 36 percent. 'Aging in place is a good thing generally," said John Hohenstein, Eagan's commu- nity development director, who notes economic and so- cial benefits of a stable com- munity. But it also can have a down side. "It's no secret that our pop- ulation is aging. The thing [the institute] identified... is that if people age in place indefinite- ly, then neighborhoods don't regenerate." The ripple effects The ripple effects could be felt in years to come. The trend could result in fewer families moving into the city and lower school en- rollments. Older residents might not have the energy or income to keep up their homes, which could lead to a deterioration of the housing stock and the overall quality of life in the city. The institute, for example, notes the city already "is expe- riencing an increased number of property maintenance vio- lations." The ULI study, present- ed to the City Council last month, recommends that the city seek long-term solutions to the situation, which Mayor Mike Maguire and other city officials describe as a "circu- lation problem" in the hous- ing stock. "The problem right now [is] the aging population with a down housing market," said Maguire, who made a point of highlighting the issue recently in his state of the city address. " I don't know if it is a mat- ter of Eagan needing to get younger," the mayor said re- cently. "It is a matter of working through that circulation prob- lem. These are big -picture is- sues and they take time. Long term, this impacts the pulse of the community and the needs of the community." Among the things the City Council could consider is re- vamping its housing renova- tion loan program to make it available to more income lev- els. Also, the city could make it easier to renovate homes to add "accessory units" to exist- ing homes so friends or rela- tives could more readily live with the seniors to watch over them and also help maintain the properties. Part of a trend Eagan officials, as well as those from the Land Institute and the county, point out that Eagan is not alone in facing this aging in place situation. In fact, Census data show that Burnsville, Apple Valley, Hastings and Rosemount have a higher percentage of house- holds with at least one person 65 years old or older. "It's definitely a metro - wide problem, based on the work that we've done," said Cathy Bennett of the ULI. "A factor in that is the economy. But we are a nation that is rap- idly aging." Tom Garrison, Eagan's communications director, al- so points out that while the city will be addressing the ag- ing issue, it also will be focus- ing on how to attract, retain or increase the number of young- er residents in the communi- ty. That is in keeping with the message in the ULI study. Heron Marquez • 952.707.9994 FINANCIAL WRITE YOUR OWN WILL: Learn about estates and how to prepare a will. Reg- istration requested. 6:30 p.m. Thu. $49. Diamondhead Education Center, 200 W. Burnsville Pkwy., Burnsville. 952- 707-4110. FOOD AND WINE ARTISAN BREAD IN FIVE MINUTES A DAY: Pre -registration required. 6:30 p.m. Thu. Richfield Middle School, 7461 Oli- ver Av. S., Richfield. $36. 952-681-6132. BEGINNING CAKE DECORATING: Regis- tration required. 6 p.m. Thu. $69. Fal- con Ridge Middle School, 12900 John- ny Cake Ridge Rd., Apple Valley. 651- 423-7920. CRAVE WINE CLASS: Sommelier Tim Edmunds highlights wines from Spain. 6:30 p.m. Mon. Crave Restaurant -Shops at West End, 1603 West End Blvd., St. Louis Park. $55. 952-854-5000. GUEST CHEF WINE DINNER: A five - course spring meal prepared by a guest chef paired with select wines. Reserva- tions required. 6:30 p.m. Sat. $75. Per- ron's Sul Lago, 16154 Main Av. SE., Prior Lake. 952-440-1411. INDIAN APPETIZERS: Advance regis- tration required. 6:30 p.m. Tue. $39. Burnsville High School, 600 E. Hwy. 13, Burnsville. 952-707-4110. INDIAN COOKING COURSE: Idli, samb- har and chutneys. Advance regis- tration required. 6:30 p.m. Mon. $39. Richfield Middle School, 7461 Oliver Av. S., Richfield. 952-681-6132. SOUTHERN ITALIAN COOKING: Reser- vations required. 6 p.m. Tue. $39. Da- kota Hills Middle School, 4183 Braddock Trail, Eagan. 651-423-7920. VEGETARIAN COOKING COURSE: Ad- vance registration required. 6 p.m. Thu. $39. Burnsville High School, 600 E. Hwy. 13, Burnsville. 952-707-4110. HEALTH AND FITNESS AVOID SEEING A CHIROPRACTOR: Learn how to prevent injuries. Advance regis- tration required. 10 a.m. Sat. Chaska High School, 545 Pioneer Trail, Chaska. $15. 952- 556-6200. DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP: 10 a.m. Tue. Free. Diamondhead Education Center, 200 W. Burnsville Pkwy., Burnsville. 952- 707-4120. HISTORY AUDACITY, SKILL AND FIREPOWER: Histo- rian Stephen Osman will speak about the last battle of the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. 2 p.m. today. $2. Historic Gideon Pond House, Pond -Dakota Mission Park, 401 E. 104th St., Bloomington. 952-563-8895. HOME AND HOBBIES CONTAINER GARDEN DESIGN: Information on picking plants and where to begin. Ad- vance registration required. 7 p.m. Mon. $19. Falcon Ridge Middle School, 12900 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd., Apple Valley. 952- 707-4110. DOG TRICKS: Pre -registration required. 11 a.m. Sat. $20. Rio Gran Training Academy, 16440 Fischer Av., Hastings. 651-423-7920. GO SOLAR: Learn how to build a solar power generator. Advance registration re- quired. 6:30 p.m. Tue. $19. Jefferson High School, 4401 W. 102nd St., Bloomington. 952-681-6132. HAUPTANTIEK MARKET: Vintage, cottage wares, European finds and repurposed pieces. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. today. Haupt Anti- ek Market, 7570 W. 147th St., Apple Valley. 651-329-3871. HOW QUAINT: Antique, vintage and prim- itive home furnishings. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. to- day. How Quaint, 714 1st Av. E. (Hwy. 101), Shakopee. 952-465-3887. RAINBOW RESCUE: Noon-3 p.m. Sat. Pet Supplies Plus, 1800 W. County Rd. 42, Burnsville. 952-440-3824. RUSTY RABBITIQUES MARKET: Garden iron, antiques, vintage and holiday items and more. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. today. Rusty Rab- bitiques, 23590 Cedar Av. S., Farmington. 952-469-2754. SQUARE FOOT GARDENING: 7 p.m. Tue. $19. Falcon Ridge Middle School, 12900 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd., Apple Valley. 952- 707-4110. WINDOWS AND SIDING - A HOMEOWN- ERS GUIDE: Learn about product types, cost comparisons and proper installation. Registration requested. 6:30 p.m. Tue. $19- $29. Burnsville High School, 600 E. Hwy. 13. Burnsville. 952-707-4110. DIVERSIONS FARM BABIES: Interact with the new- est members of the zoo family. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. today -next Sun. $10-$16. Minneso- ta Zoo, 13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley. 952- 431-9500. FROM JIMMY CHOOS TO RUNNING SHOES: A seminar on orthopedic health for wom- en. Includes refreshments and fashion dis- plays. Proceeds benefit the Abbott North- western Hospital Foundation. 11:30 a.m. Thu. $25. Galleria, 3225 W. 70th St., Edina. 952-925-4321. MUSIC CHERRY GUN: 9 p.m. Wed. Primetime Sports Bar & Grill, 14103 Irving Av. S., Burnsville. 952-435-6111. CHRIS BROOKS AND THE SILVER CITY BOYS: 10 p.m. Fri. Jersey's Bar & Grill, 6449 Concord Blvd, Inver Grove Heights. 651- 455-4561. JAGERMEISTER COUNTRY TOUR: Featuring Dierks Bentley, Josh Thompson and Willie Brown. 7 p.m. Thu. $35-$45. Verizon Wire- less Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato. 507-389-3000. THE JOHNNY HOLM BAND: 9 p.m. Fri. Primetime Sports Bar & Grill, 14103 Irving Av. S., Burnsville. 952-435-6111. ty's energy footprints N reenhouse Gas Inventory is multiple ways to break down ash collected by city at he presence of the refinery, iMarco said. In other instances, tiny com- unities such as Sunfish Lake ave huge per -capita measures f greenhouse gases, but that's ecause the survey counts ve- hicles traveling on Interstate 494 through the city. "They have major roads that are heavily travelled, not nec- essarily by Sunfish Lake resi- dents," DiMarco said. All the data used for the in- augural Community Green- house Gas Inventory is from 2009. It's drawn from public sources, including Minneso- ta Department of Transporta- tion traffic studies and reports from utility companies about total usage by customers in a given city. The numbers aren't specific to different types of industry or individual utility customers. So questions - such as that raised by County Commission- er Tom Egan about why Burns- ville's commercial and indus- trial use of electricity and nat- ural gas is higher than any oth- er community's - are left un- answered. The data should tell a more iuteresting story year after year, DiMarco said, as they begin to JUNK FM: 9 p.m. Fri. Basement Bar & Grill, 16691 Hwy. 13 5., Prior Lake. 952-226-6040. LAUDIE PORTER CONCERT II: Laudie Porter Concert II. 3 p.m. today. Carleton College Concert Hall, 1 N. College St., Northfield. 1-507-646-4350. MEDALIST CONCERT BAND: A concert of literature -based selection by Aaron Copland, David Del Tredici and others. 4 p.m. today. $10-$12. Bloomington Cen- ter for the Arts, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd., Bloomington. 952-563-8575. UNCLE CHUNK: 9 p.m. Sat. Basement Bar & Grill, 16691 Hwy. 13 S., Prior Lake. 952- 226-6040. THEATER ADAM RICHMOND: 8 p.m. Wed. -Thu., next Sun.; 8 & 10:30 p.m. Fri. -Sat. $13-$19. Rick Bronson's House of Comedy, 8100 24th Av. S., Bloomington. 952-858-8558. CARLOS ALAZRAQUI: 8 p.m. today. $13- $19. Rick Bronson's House of Comedy, 8100 24th Av. S., Bloomington. 952-858-8558. CINDERELLA: 3 p.m. today. $3-$7. Simley High School, 2920 80th St. E., Inver Grove Heights. 651-306-7144. THE COMEDY OF ERRORS: 7:30 p.m. Wed. - Fri.; 2 & 7:30 p.m. Sat. $5-$10. Normandale Community College, 9700 France Av. 5., Bloomington. 952-487-7462. ART HEROES AMONG US - SCOTT COUNTY WORLD WAR II VETERANS: Listen to sto- ries by local WWII veterans, watch video and gain an understanding of what these men and women endured during a pivot- al period in our country's history. Through Aug. 31. $2-$4. Scott County Historical So- ciety, 235 S. Fuller St., Shakopee. 952-445- 0378. RICHARD GRAVES: Watercolor paintings. Through April 26. Lakeville Area Arts Cen- ter, 20965 Holyoke Av., Lakeville. 952-985- 4640. reflect policies or economic factors that could change en- ergy use. "If a city wants to imple- ment a residential energy effi- ciency program, they can look at where we started the pro- gram and where we are now," she said. "We wanted to see what the data was before we went on further." Katie Humphrey • 952-882-9056 Blackbawk, Thomas lakes topic of forum Improving water quality, stormwater pollution prevention plan will be discussed by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The city of Eagan wants to help resi- ents get informed about — and involved — the health of its lakes. The water quality of Eagan's two larg- akes, Blackhawk and Thomas, will be ussed at a public forum Wednesday, l, April 27. The city has received a grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to s dy the watersheds of both lakes and ealuate their health. Those who attend the forum will learn about the project and what they can do to help. "It's important for people to under- stand the challenge we collectively have to keep them in nice shape so people can enjoy them in the long term and into the future," said Eric Macbeth, Eagan's water resources coordinator. Phosphorous from stormwater runoff remains a top concern, he said. "High phosphorous in lakes comes See Lakes, 14A General 952-894-1111 Distribution 952-846-2070 Display Advertising 952-846-2011 Classified Advertising 952-846-2000 8 110 34493 00023 6 lfiy'� rrr Earth Day: Help clean up Eagan parks Two events planned this Saturday by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Residents can celebrate Earth Day this year by help- ing clean up Eagan's parks at either of two planned events Saturday, April 23. For the ninth year in a row, Friends of the Eagan Core Greenway will hold its Earth Day clean-up project at Pat- rick Eagan Park. "It's an opportunity to do our meaningful part for Earth Day, and it's an opportunity to meet with like-minded, caring citizens in our com- munity," said Jack Conrad of Friends of the Eagan Core Greenway. Participants can help pick up trash found along the two miles of trails within the park from 10 a.m. to noon. Ambitious participants are encouraged to bring waders to help clean up the edges of the lake, Conrad said. "All the good stuff is in the reeds down there. That's where it accumulates," he said. After the clean up, refresh- ments will be served and par- ticipants will receive vouchers from Cuqui's Cafe, located at Diffley Road and Highway 3 in Eagan. The park is located be- hind the Eagan Art House on Lexington Avenue between Diffley and Wescott roads. Participants should bring gloves and work clothes; trash bags will be provided. For more information, visit www.eagancoregreenway.org. Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan will celebrate a "healthy earth and a healthy you" with its free Earth Day event, which begins at 10 a.m. Participants can stop by the Jensen Lake, Holland Lake or Schtilze Beach trail - heads for some family -friend- ly spring cleaning. "Each family that fills up a bag of trash will receive a free coupon for a one -hour kayak or canoe rental," said Dakota County Parks Education Co- ordinator Krista Jensen. Gloves and trash bags will be provided, although gloves are one -size -fits -all and may not be suitable for small hands, she said. Participants are encour- aged to pack a healthy lunch or enjoy some light refresh- ments — pretzels, apples, gra- nola bars — at the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center beginning at noon. A free raffle will feature earth -friendly prizes such as refurbished birdhouses, gar- dening baskets and nursery gift cards. The drawing will be held at 3 p.m. From 1 to 3 p.m., visitors are invited to stay and play with hands-on kids' activities, free pre -season canoeing and kayaking, fitness walks and more. The event will culminate with Rachael Kroog and Kid Power performing around a campfire from 2 to 3 p.m. For more information, call the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center at (651) 554-6530. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 241/ 4 11 Traverse LS AUTO, 8-PASS, j� 41. M.S.R.P. FROM $24.09 EXT CAB, iO, S�X� FLEX FUEL M.S.R.P. $ 384 FROM $ 26;9199 6-SPD AUTO, 2.4 LIT ONSTAR, CD & MP3 M.S.R.P. $22,735 FROM $ 1 7,999 'HARP Members rewire "add'I $F000 off 4Eaulnlnx 1 AUTO, A LOPS, ONSTAR, 4 C J • r - M.S.R.P. S23,410 FROM $ 20,999 atzoll SiIverad. REG CAB, AUTO, A/C, CREW CAB, AUTO, 8 CYL, 4X SPLIT FRONT BENCH M.S.R.P. $21,845 FROM $15,55'55 $3 R.p5 FROM $ 26440 PRICES INCLUDE ALL REBATES TO DEALER. SILVERADO PRICING MUST FINANCE WITH ALLY. MUST BE ON G. M. MANIFEST FOR CONOUESTIRETENTION. MINIMUM 6 MOS. MEMBER REOUIREMENT FOR AARP DISCOUNT. "IF YOU DON'T CHECK PRICING AT BELZER'S, YOU'RE NOT SAVING ENOUGH" HWY. 50 AT CEDAR AVE., LAKEVILLE, MN • 888.794.2535 WWW.JEFFBELZER.COM BAD CREDIT • NO CREDIT CALL DAVE NOWACKI 952.469.6813 For Inventory and Daily Specials r /JeffBelzers Fresh Trade, 79,000 nips 4x4, 100,000 miles . 4x4, 0,000 miles . $23, $27,86% $14,5f $14,90t $12,96 15,900. 4x4, 91,000 miles _ $!O9O¼ 1,141fin 2005 COBALT )8, V+u 2001 CUBE VAN $6,9014 2004 SILVERADO $7,900 2001 CRV $7,900 2003 BENI C240 $9,602000 SILVERADO ' 6,900 Become a fan of Jeff Belzer's on Facebook & Twitter to receive additional specials JeffBelzer.com 888-794-2535 *tBEI2EM'S Swimmers cooled off this week at St. Paul's High? RICHARD SENNOTT • rsennott@startribune.com d Park Aquatic Center, which recently added a water side and new bathrooms. • Across the nation, pools are going dry from budget cuts. Minnesota is not only keeping them open, but enhancing them. By ROCHELLE OLSON raolson@startribune.com As locals deal with one of the steamiest stretches of the sum- mer, a shimmery oasis awaits in the hearts of cities: the outdoor municipal pool From Warroad to Albert Lea, Eagan and Edina, fresh -air swim- ming pools stand ready for guests in a summer of shuttered parks and gas near $4 a gallon. The prev- alence of pools bucks a national trend — the pools are not just re- maining open but many are reno- vating for a new generation. Across the country, city pools have gone dry with desiccated budgets. Philadelphia, Atlanta, Phoenix, Houston, Cincinnati and New York all have locked the gates on outdoor pools usually open in the summer months. In Minnesota, however, even managers of pools that aren't mak- ing money cite the value of their existence. A pool is "a service you offer to the community," said Jay Hutchison, Parks and Recreation director in Albert Lea. "We don't make money plowing the streets either." Though the 50-meter pool in the southern Minnesota city loses money, Hutchison said they would shorten the season before closing the pooL "We don't want to shut it down. Then, you're shutting down a $2 million facility," he said. Randy Quale, Bloomington Parks and Recreation manag- er, said the pools are most popu- lar with kids age ll through high school. "You want them out and active in a relatively safe environ- ment, and [outdoor pools] really fill that ticket," he said. Pools continues on B7 P. S 47.- 7/2,) mot; the lighter side of life," she said. "They're more into the nasty side of things, and my husband thought it wasn't [appropriate] because he's consulting in the medical business. "Brad's a little higher N 0 brow. He puts up with HOUSEWIVES my antics. I'm friendly FOR HIS WIFE with the girls on 'Real Housewives of Bever - Tina O had to ly Hills: But behind the pass on "Real scenes, it's getting real - Housewives of ly nasty and half of them Beverly Hills" by aren't even speaking to order of husband each other." Brad Hillstrom. Tina 0 said she's more friendly with Sonja Morgan of "Real House- wives of New York." "I was on 'Real Housewives of New York,' three different [recent] episodes," she said. She was even featured in a TV commercial refer- ring to the housewives as "Those bitches." Tina O's friend, Carolyn Forest, another Minnesotan who's now a blackjack dealer in Reno, alerted me to Tina O's latest TV ap- pearances: "I liked the [Real Housewives of MN] cover of Mpls.St.Paul mag. They're all so pretty. But our local Minneapolis girl is actually on a show." View Tina's and Sonja's TV burlesque routine at www.youtube.com/watch?v= RKN6nOMN3dg. Don't be confused by the caption; Tina 0 is wearing black. It hasn't all been a party for her in Lala Land, however. "I almost died four weeks ago. I had pneumonia and didn't know it," said Tina O. "And you know me, I kept right on par- tying with a 103-degree temperature. I was hospitalized at UCLA for two weeks and then at the Mayo [in Scottsdale, Ariz.] for one week. So I am happy to be speaking to you. I've been convalescing." There's no time to be in bed when per- fume with pheromones is on the drawing board at wannawearbytinao.com, where the scent is scheduled to be released in 2012. And there are facelifts to do. "I should send you a sample," she said. And I need that perfume because? "It will attract anything you want. It's better than home cooking, barbecue sauce and mini- skirts." Perfume was not the reason I had trouble contacting her Wednesday when a visit to her doctor, who is father of "Kick -Ass" star Chloe Moretz, was high on Tina O's priorities. "I just left Dr. [ McCoy] Moretz's office. They just did a test on me for a new facelift procedure. It's nonsurgical," she laughed. "Dr. Moretz is like the best plastic surgeon here." A Starkey no-vite Irreverence has its price. I have been unvited to the 20ll Starkey ga- la because of the sports reel video I did from the 2010 event. On Friday, Rosalie Hagel from the FLORIDA company handling PR for the 20ll annual MINNESOTA event, called with the good news, prompted by my not being more worshipful around the pro athletic aristocra- cy that attends. "Apparently there were previous issues. I'm not familiar with what those were," Hagel told me. "But last year there was a spe- cific incident where I understand, um, you were chasing down Magic Johnson and yell- ing some inappropriate comments to him. As a result, the foundation received some negative e-mails from people [who] saw the video. They got calls about it. So that really was the impetus." Well, somebody needs to inform Magic that he'd sound like he attended college if he stopped using the nonexistent word HIS- STARTRIBUNE.COMJCJ: WANT MORE OF THE DISH? GO ONLINE FOR ANOTHER HELPING OR TWO. SEL to t the tacu of ti expl Pete trou in a Sup tion reas T fra who rem tin's C.J. is pleas ment tude Police, fire pensions merge into statewide pl II PENSIONS FROM 131 Republican legislators had approved a budget that elim- inated local government aid to Minneapolis, St. Paul and Duluth, but DFL Gov. Mark Dayton prevailed on his in- sistence that the aid stay the same. The budget sends $64 mil- lion to Minneapolis. Rybak Mumhe . oweP of'i Milt® Donate Your Car to benefit the Make -A -Wish Foundation'''' of Minnesota • Free vehicles pick up • We accept all vehicles — running or not • We also accept Boats and RVs • Tax Deductible based his budget on receiving the $87 million called for in the state formula. Within two weeks, St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman will al- so propose adjustments to his city's budget, which was based on receiving $62 million allo- cated by the state formula, a Coleman spokesman said. The city got $50 million. For Minneapolis, the Leg- islature's approval of the pen- sion merger would end a five- year court fight over benefit levels that has cost the city and creasing strain on the city bud- get because the city has been forced to use property tax- es to make up shortfalls when the pensions' investments lose value. The deal merges the two lo- cal funds into a statewide plan for public safety employees on Dec. 30, assuming that the deal is approved by pensioners of both funds, their boards, the board of the statewide fund and the City Council. The pension merger helps the ci in two ways. First, it amount the city ha to the funds. "We think this is for residents," sa Member Elizabet the council's legisl person. But the deal ca Because the state pL er cost -of -living inc] the two local fund agreed to kick in s money to raise tho: pension payments. ' es amount to a 50 pE efit increase for 1 Pools swim against the tide and survive POOLS FROM B1 In Minnesota, the pools are hanging on at least in part be- cause residents have let leaders know they savor their time in the sun. A decade ago, the Min- neapolis Parks and Recreation Department tried to close half the city's wading pools to save money. Public outcry quickly stopped that plan. "It's a popular amenity., the people that utilize them love them," Quale said of the out- door pooL Voters in Crystal approved a $2 million bond issuance a few years ago to overhaul their pooL "Our pool is very popular, very well -liked and one of the fo- cal points of Crystal," said Gene Hackett, recreation director. The pool is no longer a 50- meter lap facility but has fea- tures popular with families and kids, including zero -depth entry, water play area, shade structures and a new filtration device. Hackett said the city extend- ed the hours this year with sav- ings that came from subbing vending machines for a conces- sions stand. The Highland Park Aquat- ic Center in St. Paul just under- went a renovation, adding a wa- ter slide and new bathrooms. The city's other facility at Como Park is closed until 2012, under- going a $9.6 million rebuilding to fix the mechanical and electrical systems and add many ameni- ties, including a zip -line across the water. Like the 50-meter pools in Edina and Richfield, St. Paul al- so offers lap swimming. Brad Meyer, St. Paul Parks and Recreation spokesman, said the outdoor pools are "an essen- tial service when it comes to quality of life." Pools are cool As the renovations and up- grades indicate, municipal pools have had to adapt because they are past their prime. In the mid- 20th century, swimming pools were the sole reprieve from the heat. Widening use of air-condi- tioning shortly thereafter pro- vided the option of hiding from the heat at home. Edina's pool stands out be- cause it is both old -school and profitable. "We've got a dinosaur," said Ed MacHolda, assistant parks and recreation director. "We've massaged the facility over the years, but I'm surprised we're as competitive as we are." Built in 1958, Edina's 50-me- ter pool has been through nu- merous upgrades that added play areas and a zero -depth en- try. "We refresh the facility ev- ery single year so it's like walk- ing into a brand new one, and it pays off," MacHolda said. De- spite keeping fees low ($50 for a resident and $60 for a non-resi- dent season pass), the pool sits on a $1.4 million surplus. "We try to be the safest fa- cility. We try to be the cleanest facility," MacHolda said, add- ing that during the heyday of its first decade 5,000 guests crowd- ed around the pooL Pool atten- dance now maxes out at about 1,500 a day, MacHolda said. For competitive and lap swim- mers, the 50-meter Olympic length is preferred for logging miles. The long pool means few- er pesky flip turns but leaves a lot of unused space to heat when it's time for recreational swimming. Like some other cities, Richfield has added to its 50-me- ter pool, according to Jim Topit- zhofer, Recreation Services di- rector. It remains booked by club swimmers. The inner -ring sub- urb also has a unique revenue source for recreation facilities: municipal liquor stores. Bloomington, with strong support from local competitive swimming clubs, kept its 50-me- ter pool and plans a $1.2 million renovation over the winter that will redo the 40-year-old lock- er rooms and replace an out-of- date slide. Apple Valley, Eagan and St. Louis Park pools went the oth- er direction with waterpark- style pools that offer a plethora of play options, but not serious lap swimming. Rochelle Olson • 651-735-9749 Twitter: @rochelleolson,„f / j I I f ���ti�w u y ou "es , e arges exceptional" drought in NOAA's history, and outrageous temperature and moisture levels. For a few hours Tuesday evening, the hottest reporting station on EARTH was Moorhead, Minn. A dew point of 8 made it feel like 134; new records for Minnesota. A warmer atmosphere can hold more water vapor, resulting in higher dew points and more fuel for severe storms and floods. Other factors may be contributing to these heat spikes, but what we're seeing is consistent with what climate scientists have been predicting for 20 years. Research in the wake of the killer heat wave that left nearly 900 dead in Chicago in 1995 determined that 80-de- gree warmth at night puts more stress on people than ex- treme daytime warmth. If you can't get any relief at night, that's when heat ailments can escalate to dangerous levels. Good news: A surge of Canadian air will drop dew point to near 60 today, half as much water in the air as Tuesday. A few thunderstorms will return by Saturday, along with low 90s and sticky humidity levels. Weekend dew points: 70s again. Ugh... Check out Paul's blog R startribune.com/pauldouglas Follow Paul at twitter.com/pdouglasweather Last Jul 23 SUN AND MOON TODAY New Jul 30 First Aug 6 Full Aug 13 Sunrise 5:46 a.m. Moonrise 11:27 p.m. Total daylight: 15 hours, 06 minutes Sunset 8:53 p.m. Moonset 12:32 p.m. YESTERDAY IN THE TWIN CITIES High Low Wednesday to 6 p.m. 96 83 Average 84 64 Record 102(1901) 51(1950) Hourly temperatures 12 a.m. 88 7 a.m. 85 2 p.m. 95 1 a.m. 87 8 a.m. 85 3 p.m. 96 2 a.m. 86 9 a.m. 87 4 p.m. 96 3 a.m. 85 10 a.m. 90 5 p.m. 95 4 a.m. 84 11 a.m. 92 6 p.m. 95 5 a.m. 83 Noon 93 7 p.m.' 91 6 a.m. 84 1 p.m. 94 8 p.m.' 88 = estimate Precipitation 24 hours to 6 p.m. yesterday 0.00" Month to yesterday 4.10" Above / below average +1.49" Year to yesterday 20.40" Above / below average +4.21" Yesterday's record 2.75" in 1987 Relative Humidity High 69% (1 a.m.) Low 45% (12 p.m.) Cooling degree days 2011 2010 Avg. 24 hrs to 6 p.m. yest. 25 11 10 Seasonal 494 475 357 TODAY'S HEALTH REPORT Air Quality Index Ultraviolet Index II EE ID fu El High ri mi use sunb protecti. r reduce ti In sun 58 moderate YESTERDAY'S ALLERGY IND High Moderate Low Absent .,z. ,% 1111 Grass Weeds pees Molds Test driv f Pf prei@ Volunteers? Anyone? Volunteer firefighters are getting harder and harder to find as time and money constraints diminish their ranks in fire departments in the Twin Cities and across the United States. PIONEER PRESS: JOHN DOMAN Volunteer Eagan firefighter Jon Kemp, 21, a three-year veteran of the department, takes a break after a training session last week at Eagan Fire Station No. 2. Volunteers reportedly make up 72 percent of the nation's firefighting forces. By Jessica Fleming > jfleming@pioneerpress.com Volunteerism might be up during a down economy, but one group that heavily relies on donated time is suffering: fire departments. Increased training requirements, more duties, squeezed family lives and less -flexible employers have all contributed to a decrease hi the number of people willing to drop everything and pick up a hose, local fire chiefs say. Recruitment is a problem for some departments, but a more common complaint is that it's hard to keep people once they've joined. "We've lost an average of nine firefighters a year for the past few years," Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott said. Other departments in the metro report similar problems. Fire chiefs say some of the losses are due to retirements, but the economy is also taking its toll. Firefighters leave because they have to work longer hours at their regular jobs as employers down - size; others have lost their jobs and are moving out of the cities where they serve. And some who find themselves unemployed are retiring from firefighting and col- lecting their firefighter pensions to survive, said Dave Ganfield, sec- retary of the Minnesota State Vol- unteer Firefighter Association. The metro area fits into a nation- al trend, said Kimberly Quiros, director of communications for the National Volunteer Fire Council. "In the past 20 years, the number of volunteer firefighters has declined around 8 percent," Quiros said. Volunteers make up 72 percent of the nation's firefighting forces, she said. VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS, 4A > ustralia, I am the CEO of media giant tion. In 1986 I ventured rican market, creating ecently I've come under came public that my ews of the World, Great -selling tabloid, had undreds of cell phones sational stories. The last week, and now is in tatters. Who am I? champion of women's rights, Ilowstone River in ? has de oil into the river. r League Baseball history, career base hits. news conference Monday g 7 eek when a jury in g her 2-year-old daughter. responsibility for, came less than a week after the assassination of Ahmed Wali Karzai, the president's half brother and one of the most powerful men in southern Afghanistan. Two men wearing suicide bomb vests and armed with guns attacked Khan's home in the western Kabul district of Karti Char, said Defense Ministry official Gen. Zahir Wardak. Khan was shot along with Ufuz- gan lawmaker Mohammed Ashim Watanwal, an Afghan police official said. Fire contained near Yad Vashem site JERUSALEM — A wildfire tore through a forest on the outskirts of Jerusalem on Sunday, moving within sever- al hundred yards of Israel's Holocaust memorial Yad Vashem and sending a huge plume of smoke billowing over parts of the holy city. Fire service spokesman Boaz Rakia said the fire was under control at nightfall. and Yad Vashem and its 45-acre campus were not in danger. He said investigators were considering the possibility of arson. Two people required medical treatment. Yad Vashem is one of Israel's national treasures, home to a museum and memorials for the victims of the Holocaust. Cain: Communities can ban mosques Republican presidential can- didate Herman Cain said Sun- day that communities have a right to ban Islamic mosques. Appearing on "Fox News Sunday," the former Godfa- ther's Pizza CEO said protests and legal challenges to a planned mosque in a Tennes- see city are an example of local residents pushing back. Cain said his view doesn't amount to religious discrimi- nation because, he says, Mus- lims are trying to inject Sha- riah into U.S. law Cain's comments were denounced as "unconstitu- tional and un-American" by a spokesman for the Washing- ton -based Council on Ameri- can -Islamic Relations. L.A. freeway opens ahead of schedule LOS ANGELES — The event that many feared would be the "Carmageddon" of epic traffic jams cruised calmly to a finish Sunday, with bridge work on the Los Angeles road- way completed nearly a full day ahead of schedule and officials reopening a 10-mile stretch of the busy freeway. Drivers honked their horns and waved from car windows as traffic started moving in all 10 lanes of Interstate 405 just after noon for the first time since being shut down at mid- night Friday. There were no major problems. Some with ties to California mocked the frenzied language surrounding the closure, espe- cially on Twitter. "How's everyone coping with this terrifying apocalyp- tic nightmare of having to ... oh my god ... stay home with your family?!!!" commentator Bill Maher wrote. Hospital denies Mubarak in coma CAIRO—The director of the hospital where former Egyp- tian President Hosni Mubarak is being treated denied earlier reports that the ousted Egyp- tian president is in a coma. The doctor said Mubarak had low blood pressure, but was stable. State television on Sunday reported the denial shortly after quoting Mubarak's law- yer as saying that the deposed leader was in a coma. Mubarak, 83, has been in the hospital in Sharm el -Sheikh. ASSOCIATED PRESS: DENIS FARRELL He had a heart attack during an interrogation in April. He faces trial, along with his two sons, on Aug. 3. Iowa congressman, family oust intruder DES MOINES, Iowa — A home invasion at Rep. Leon- ard Boswell's Iowa farm ended when his 22-year-old grand- son fetched a shotgun and aimed it at the intruder, according to the congress- man's office. No one was seri- ously injured. The incident started about 10:45 p.m. Saturday when an armed man came in through the front door, attacked Boswell's daughter and demanded money, the state- ment said. Boswell, 77, heard his daughter's screams, came to help her and attempted to disarm the intruder. As they struggled, Boswell's grandson, Mitchell Brown, got a shotgun from another room. When he pointed the shotgun at the intruder, the man fled into the fields around the house outside Lamoni. The family is shaken, but "they're dealing with it pretty well," a spokesman for the Democrat- ic congressman said. 21 dead of bootleg alcohol in Ecuador QUITO, Ecuador — Authori- ties in Ecuador have banned the sale of alcohol in a com- munity where 21 people have died after drinking bootleg liquor. Public Health Minister David Chiriboga says 103 others have been treated for intoxica- ca, is .is -ye• at an arts fair Sunday in Johannesburg. President Barack Obama, who called the South African leader "a beacon for the global community," was among world lead- ers congratulating Mandela on his 93rd birthday today. tion from adulterated alcohol in the coastal municipality of Urdaneta in Los Rios prov- ince, where eight were initial- ly reported dead. Chiriboga says police have seized 28 containers each with 55 gallons of alcohol contami- nated with methanol. Methyl alcohol is a toxic substance sometimes used to illegally produce cheap liquor. The health minister said Sunday that a law prohibiting the sale or consumption of alcohol has been in effect since Saturday in the area. —From news services PIONEER PRESS Minnesota's first newspaper CIRCULATION To start/stop, register a service complaint, billing issues, or any other Home delivery and Single Copy concern: • Call 651-717-7377 or 1-800-678-7737 • E-mail customerservice@ pioneerpress.com • Go online to twincities.com Andrew Mok, vice president, is responsible for circulation and technology. Contact him at 651-228-5149 or amok@ pioneerpress.com. ADVERTISING Classified and display: 651-222-1111 Greg Mazanec, vice president, is responsible for advertising. Contact him at 651-228-5315 or gmazanec@ pioneerpress.com. News tips: 651-228-5490 Sports: 651-228-5518 Business news: 651-228-5427 A&E and features: 651-228-5284 Reader advocate: 651-228-5446 Photo reprints: 651-222-1111 Watchdog: 651-228-5419 or watchdog@pioneerpress.com Mike Burbach, vice president CONTINUED FROM 1A > Volunteer firefighters Quiros also blamed the decrease on increased com- mute times — a firefighter has to be able to show up at a fire scene within a few min- utes — and the growing demand on people's time. More households have both parents working full-time, she notes. And what little free time parents have is spent with their children. 'IT'S A BIG ISSUE' Centennial Fire Chief Jerry Streich's department is feel- ing the squeeze. He's short 11 of the 60 firefighters he'd pre- fer to have. "I've lost close to 20 percent of my staff in the past year," Streich said. "It's a big issue. ... Though people are commit- ted to the fire department, they're more committed to their families and their jobs, and when they have to leave, they leave." Most metro "volunteer" departments are actually paid on -call. Firefighters are paid either hourly during a call response or on a per -call basis. Hourly rates are usually around $13 an hour. Per -call rates range from a few dollars to $20. "People who are in this, they don't do it for the money," Streich said. MORE DEMAND, LESS SUPPLY The need to retain volunteer firefighters isn't just an incon- venience for loyal chiefs. It PIONEER PRESS: JOHN DOMAN Live-in Eagan firefighter Lt. Bill Knoll, 47, studies for an upcoming fire exam in his dormito- ry -style room at Eagan Fire Station No. 2. can also save cities money — lots of money. Equipping and training a new recruit can cost about $7,000, said Eagan's Scott. Firefighters go through an average of about 100 hours of initial training before they can fight their first fire. Then come about another 100 hours to learn how to be first responders, deal with hazard- ous materials calls and per- form other varied duties. "There's a lot more demand on a volunteer fire depart- ment now," Scott said. "My clad was a firefighter starting in 1971, and then you were a firefighter. Now you have res- cue, hazmat, decontamina- tion, first aid — all kinds of things." After the initial training, even the most veteran fire- fighters at many stations train for two to four hours a week. "It's a huge commitment to be a paid on -call firefighter," Inver Grove Heights Fire Chief Judy Thill said. UNUSUAL MEASURES Departments are coming up with novel approaches to rounding up and retaining new recruits. A few recently have changed to a part-time model, where firefighters are paid hourly to man firehouses in shifts. Maplewood and Brooklyn Park say the switch has been a success, and other local departments might follow suit. Maplewood Fire Chief Steve Lukin said some volunteers were resistant to the idea at first, but those who stayed with the department have been happy. "They love the freedom," Lukin said. "They like the fact that they can control their hours and when they can be with their families. They don't live by the pager anymore like they used to." Lukin said too few people work odd shifts in their regu- lar jobs anymore, which was making covering daytime calls difficult. This way, fire- fighters are always at the ready for a call. Firefighters, who sign up for 36 hours a month, are paid $12 to $16 an hour, depending on their experience and position. Lukin said he can now hire from outside the city, which also helps. Eagan has six dorms that allow young recruits to live at its new fire station for free. The dorms, Scott said, assure someone is within range of the fire most of the time. Additionally, the city can recruit from other communi- ties. The program, which began in 2008 at Eagan's old Fire Sta- tion No. 6, has been a success, Scott said. "I wish I could expand it to two stations," he said. Some departments that are still paid on -call are resorting to cable television ads and Facebook pages to bring in new peruits. Others are using non -firefighting volunteers to handle less dangerous tasks in-house so firefighters can spend more time with their families. AIMING TO RETAIN Despite all the challenges, some local departments have been successful in both recruiting and retaining fire- fighters. Apple Valley Fire Chief Nealon Thompson said his department hasn't had to hire a new firefighter since Janu- ary 2009. He attributes that success to paying close atten- tion to morale and clearly lay- ing out expectations before he hires someone. Area chiefs said giving a new recruit a clear picture of the amount of time and effort required is crucial to reten- tion. Most hold informational meetings that interested resi- dents must attend before they can even apply. Lakeville's department also gets spouses involved. "Your family plays a huge role in your being part of the department," Lakeville Fire Chief Mike Meyer said. "They're the ones that let you drop everything to respond to a call." Even if it's getting harder to find committed firefighters, cities are unlikely to change their models anytime soon. The National Volunteer Fire Council estimates that volunteer firefighters save communities in the United States more than $128 billion a year. Besides, the chiefs say their volunteers love what they do. "They like helping their neighbors," Thompson said. Jessica Fleming can be reached at 651-228-5435. ows GAF Asphalt Roofing Jindows SeasonGuard Bow Windows James Hardie Siding Seamless Steel Siding Save big now on new SeasonGuard and every year hereafter on Now is the time to talk to us about replacing your windows and roof. And not just for the whopping 000 you can save right now. But hey, how about oler house every summer and a warmer house every er, starting with this one. Not to mention, a vast rovement to the look and value of your home. And onGuard windows come with a lifetime warranty. lLl, BIT JIJLY:II i TimberTech Decks SeasonGuard Bay Windows Windows and GAF Asphalt Roofing heating and cooling costs. Face it. Your old windows and roof will never be as efficient nor will they last as long as today's new ones will. Visit us at www.lindusconstruction.com or call for a free estimate: 651-925-2660 or 866-435-3952. The Lindus Construction Family ant Call. One Contractor. CK Y'OIJR OWN PRICE: SAVE UP TO $1,000 ON WINDOWS AND ASPHALT ROOFING. Listen every Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. as we offer expert advice on all your home improvement related questions. 1 July 4th FunFest begins this weekend Eagan will have by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS It's that time again — Ea- gan's annual July 4th Fun- Fest is gearing up to bring the spirit of Independence Day to residents with a multi -day celebration. The theme of this year's event is "The Best of Eagan," which, according to organiz- ers, includes the fireworks. "We're going to have the best fireworks in the state that day," said Raleigh Seelig of the July 4th FunFest Commit- tee. "Better than the Taste of Minnesota." Seelig said he is hoping this year will see the festival's best attendance yet, since July 4 is falling on a Wednesday. "I just hope people will come out and enjoy," he said. "That's what we do this for, to make people happy." `best fireworks in state,' organizers say Room of the Eagan Commu- nity Center. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children. Tuesday, July 3 will feature a carnival and food booths that open at 4 p.m. The carnival this year will be presented by Funland, which also provides the carnival for the Dakota County Fair. A Texas Hold 'ern Tournament will be held from 6 to 10 p.m., and a street dance featuring the Dweebs will be featured from 7:15 to 11 p.m. The annual FunFest pa- rade will begin at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 4. The parade will begin at Yankee Doodle and Blue Cross roads, head East on Yankee Doodle and north on Central Parkway to finish at the Eagan Commu- nity Center. The grand marshal of this See FunFest, 13A Jay 4 Schcalc /t' The following activities will be featured on Wednes- day, July 4: • Parade: l0a.m. Starts at Yankee Doodle and Blue Cross roads, heads east on Yankee Doodle, north on Central Parkway to Eagan Community Center • Carnival and Food Vendors: Noon • Bingo: Noon to 5 p.m. • Car Show: Noon to 5 p.m. horoi • Crowning of Eagan Princesses: Noon to 1 p.m. • Eagan Women of Note: 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. • Eagan Men's Choir: 2: p.m. to 2:45 p.m. • Pat Peare Dance Studio: 3 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. • Country 79: 4:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. • Texas Hold 'ern Tournament: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. • Tim Mahoney: 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. • Fireworks Display - 10 p.m. The festival kicks off on followed by the Miss Eagan Sunday, July 1 with the Miss Pageant on Monday, July 2 at Eagan Pageant preliminaries, 7:30 p.m. in the Oaks Banquet m Monday 07 Grand Caravan SXT MSRP $28, 605 Power Doors, Power Seat, Power Wind/Locks/Mirrors, Quad Seats - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Wheels, Sunscreen,AntiLock/Traction Control, Roof Rack Buy Now! taeom., EST ALL THE FEATUR Leather Seats — Heated Sea Wireless Headphones, Infini Seat, 3-Zone Temp Control Rig Now! 'FunFest/from 1 A this year's parade is Tom Hedges, who has served as Ea- gan's city administrator for 30 years. He is one of the longest - serving city administrators in the state. The carnival and food booths will open at noon on July 4, and the day's celebra- tion will also include a car show, performances by Eagan Women of Note, the Eagan men's Choir, Pat Peare Dance Studio, and Tim Mahoney. And, of course, the celebra- tion would not be complete without the "best" fireworks finale on the evening of July 4. Participants are encouraged to bring seating or a blanket for fireworks viewing. A complete schedule of events is available at www ea- ganfunfest.org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. ban wem ns ip. ommons Park in Burns- www.burnsvilleartjazz. nformation. eatre Circle presents The Tempest" in Dako- nties. Showtimes are 7 une 30 at the Lakeville er in Lakeville; and 6 ly 1 at Huber Park in information. "The Wizard of Oz," presented by Eagan High School Summer Theatre, runs July 13 through Aug. 4 at the high school. Tickets for the 18-show run go on sale June 27 and each weekday af- ter that from 1 to 4 p.m. at the EHS Ticket Office. Call (651) 683-6964 to reserve tickets. Tickets prices are $10 for adults and children over 12, $8 for seniors and children 12 and under. 2A June 30, 2007 THISWEEK Highway 149/Yankee Doodle Road intersection to close June 30 in Eagan The intersection of High- way 149 and Yankee Doodle Road will be closed beginning at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, June 30, weather permitting. A des- ignated detour route will be posted during the closure. The intersection is expected to re- open by 5 a.m. Monday, July 2. During this closure, the in- tersection will be reconstruct- ed and underground utilities will be installed. By complete- ly closing this area to traffic, the work can be completed in a much shorter amount of time. This work would take approximately four weeks to complete if the intersection were to remain partially open to traffic. For a map of the designat- ed detour route and additional information on the Highway 149 Reconstruction project, visit www.dot.state.mn.us/ metro/projects/hwy 149. The Minnesota Depart- ment of Transportation re- minds motorists to slow down in work zones and never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones. For statewide traffic, construction and travel information visit www.511mn.org or call 511 or log onto www.mndot.gov. THISWEEK June 30, 2007 I I A ops top P �/�107 Thisr� 1I yor sends strong message to the MAC New runway, which flies over Eagan's residential areas, is being used more than necessary, he says by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A rise in resident com- plaints over the increased use of the Minneapolis -St. Paul International Airport's new runway has prompted May- or Mike Maguire to send a strongly worded letter to the Metropolitan Airports Com- mission (MAC). The 17/35 runway, which opened in 2005 and flies planes predominantly over Eagan's residential areas, was used for 38 percent of all departures in May, the highest level of any single runway that month. Since March, the city con- tends, the number of flights using the 17/35 runway have increased, while flights over the Eagan/Mendota Heights Corridor, which are concen- trated over the commercial and industrial areas of North- east Eagan, have decreased. On June 20, Maguire fired off a letter to the MAC to show the city's displeasure with the increased activity from the new runway. "Looking at recent statistics in the MAC reports, it clearly shows that runway 17 is being used as the preferred runway for departures, despite the noise impact it has on thou- sands of residents," he wrote. The increased use didn't go unnoticed by Eagan residents, who lodged more complaints with the MAC than residents in any other city in the month of May. Eagan residents filed See MAC, 13A .. a �C.....,y47 Star Front Impact Crash Test Rating Stow-N-Go Seating and Storage onsumer Digest "Best Buy" Award • Best Selling Minivan of All Time siesciartiu • 25 MPG DO( extra. No security deposit required. Lease loyalty, must currently be leasing a Daimler Chrysler pradurt. 07 Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4x4 ikon Edltlon-20"' Moab & Ilms 5.7 Hemi, Auto, Air, Rr. Slider, 1 Yr. FREE Sirius Radio, CD, Power (Wind., Locks, Mirrs.) Fog Lamps, Trir. Tow Group, Overhead Trip MSRP $35,875 Rebate -$5,000 Resident Bonus -$1,000 Discount-$4,480 "- ��e .1.Lhi17 '01' + Lk ='373 down, plus 1• + Lic ='279 $25,395 '0 down, '0 firs '0 down, '0 firs f DOklowli; PLUS 07 Nitro SL SLT- '0 down, '01 ° + uc ='349 '2,000 down, plus 1 ° + Lic ='259 • and Ne fees due in advance. No security deposit required. Of changes for base term. 06 DODGE MAGNUM bar 4dr, Wagon, SXT. $ 7 925 3.5L, 6-cyl 13041 g 06 DODGE STRATUS -411ZiPM 4dr, Sedan. SXr, 2.7L $ 1 2,925 6 CY. 1305" 2. 13,d I MOO r` DJ tRr1n M A. ew..i.+• rrw wrrww...� MAC/from lA a total of 2,076 complaints, making up 34 percent of the overall complaints from that month. In comparison, Minneap- olis residents made up only 6.8 percent of total com- plaints in May, with 418. Eagan residents also led the pack in complaints filed during the months of March and April. In his letter, Maguire claims that the level at which the new runway is being used is unacceptable because capacity needs do not justify the increase. Before the runway opened, he wrote, Eagan residents were told that 17/35 was needed to add 25 percent ca- pacity at the airport. But the events of Sept. 11 and the bankruptcy of Northwest Airlines both contributed to a decrease in overall operations at the air- port, so the added capacity was not needed. "Yet runway 17/35 contin- ues to be used for the high- est percentage of departures than any of the other run- ways," he wrote. "... There is not a need for the greater runway use; rather it is a choice being made by the MAC and FAA." In his letter, Maguire implies that the MAC is in- creasing the usage of 17/35 to reduce the number of homes eligible for noise re- lief. The city is currently in a legal battle with the MAC to get noise mitigation for homes in the 60 to 64 decibel noise contour. "It would certainly appear that the MAC and FAA are making a concerted effort to place a greater noise burden over the entire Eagan com- munity through the use of 17/35 in an effort to reduce the number of homes in the [noise] contours, and con- sequently homeowners who were previously promised noise mitigation," he wrote. Pat Hogan, spokesper- son for the MAC, denies the mayor's contention. According to Hogan, the runway had previously been used less than was projected. Then in January, he said, the Noise Oversight Committee (NOC), on which Eagan sits, drafted a letter to the FAA asking that 17/35 be used in accordance with the original plan for it. The FAA com- plied, he said, and the run- way usage increased. "That's something the NOC asked the FAA to do, and they have honored that," he said. "The increase in use is part of what was agreed upon by all parties involved." That's incorrect, accord- ing to the city. "There has been a lot of misunderstanding over that letter," said Diane Miller, Eagan's alternate to the NOC. The letter sent from the NOC to the FAA last winter simply requested more infor- mation about overall runway use, she said. "It was not our intention to send a letter seeking ad- ditional flights over 17/35," she said. The NOC plans to discuss the letter at its July meeting, she said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. :s brighten Depot Way Art Park 4111. Antiques FROM PAGE 1A "The people particularly enjoy seeing everybody else's items," said Krisnik. "Some people that come and have their items appraised right away stay the whole time." Often, people in the crowd will see items assessed that are similar to items they have at home, said Lindberg. She said they don't only assess the items; they also tell the stories that come from antiques. "We give a lot of historical informa- tion, as well," she said. "You start think- ing about things and why they develop at that point in time." For example, there's a reason you don't see many pocket watches that were made before the Civil War, said Lindberg, adding that before the pres- ence of railroads, which meant train schedules, there was little reason for a person to know a specific time. There will also be refreshments pro- vided at the event, as well as the chance to see a wide variety of items, from Civil War swords to antique Bibles, said Krisnik. "We've seen some very unusual med- ical devices. We'll leave it at that," said Lindberg, as she said she's seen "every- thing from the sublime to the ridiculous" in her time doing assessment shows. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) Mortgage Building, 1895 Plaza Drive, Suite 250, Eagan. Information: 952-746-5611. Executive Connections Business Referrals, 7:30 a.m., Commons on Marice, 1380 Marice Drive, Eagan. Information: 651-248-0878. MOMS Club of Rosemount (Mothers Offering Mothers Support), Rosemount United Methodist Church, 14770 Canada Ave. W., Rosemount. Information:kym berly_nicholson®yahoo,com. Shepherd of the Valley Mom's Group, 9:30- 11:15 a.m., 12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley. Child care available. Information: 651-344-3120. Rotary -Apple Valley, breakfast and meeting, 7 a.m., Enjoy! Restaurant, 15435 Founders Lane, Apple Valley. Information: 952-432-2001. Toastmasters, Riverbluffers, 7:30 a.m., Cenex Land 0' Lakes building. Information: 651-905- 3738. ive, agan. Information: 95z-S9U-154/. Big Apple Toastmasters, 6:45 p.m., Edina Realty Building, 7668 W. 150th St., Apple Valley. Information: 651-423-7266. Valley Cadet Squadron Civil Air Patrol, 7-9 p.m., Burnsville City Hall, 100 Civic Center Parkway. Information: 952-894-7220. Government School District 191 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Senior High School Campus, Diamondhead Education Center, 200 W. Burnsville Parkway, Burnsville. Information: 952-707-2005. Miscellaneous Bingo, sponsored by Rosemount American Legion Post 65, 6:45 p.m., 14590 Burma Ave. Information: 651-423-3380. Community meal, 5:30-6 p.m., free meal for sen- iors, single families and families who need to stretch their food dollars, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 3930 Rahn Road, Eagan. Information: 651-454-2344. BA Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current — Thursday, April26, 2007— www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Internet check -cashing scam affecting residents, business GRANT BOELT ' • SUN NEW APERS If somethin: ems too good to be true, it probably is - no news there, but still worth taking to heart, according to Eagan Police detective Rich Evans. Evans is raising awareness around the area about a scam that has become more prevalent in the metro area. He said in the last three months, he has noticed that metro law enforcement departments have had to deal with a certain type of Internet scam, which uses witting or unwitting accomplices to cash fraudulent checks, on a daily basis. In Eagan, he said he sees about one or two cases per week. The scam, he said, has seemed to take on two forms. The first is scammers will send out e-mails promising the recipient the opportunity to work from home, while receiving money for almost nothing. The other targets more innocent people who are selling things on Internet auction sites. "Some people will open them think- ing it's the golden opportunity of a life- time," said Evans of e-mails that prom- ise pay in exchange for small services. The scam works like this - a person fills out a false job application after sign- ing up for the job. The scammer will then send false checks, often times gift checks which carry a lesser penalty than counterfeit cash or checks, and have the person cash them and send money back. The person cashing the check then gets to keep a percentage of the money for their work. "In a way its money laundering," said Evans, as often times the person cashing the check in this situation may have some idea that they are doing something wrong. "Hypothetically, they're being semi - victimized," he said, as often the person cashing the check is usually the one who gets picked up after it's realized that the check is counterfeit. "The check writer disappears into the wind and the check casher gets picked up by the police." Evans said the gift checks have become the weapon of choice for scam artists because of the lesser penalty and they can be cashed at gas stations as well as banks. He said local banks have put together a tally and they alone have lost $71,000 on such scams. Therefore Evans has been out in the community educating businesses in what to look for in a false check. He said a com- mon check that has been used by scammers is a $500 American Express Gift Cheque. The thing is, American Express only makes the checks with a value of $100 or less. SCAMS: TO NEXT PAGE In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com -Thursday, April 26, 2007 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 7A LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Thank you, mayors To the editor: On April 11, I presented legislation to the Senate's Committee on State and Local Government Operations and Oversight. This bill adds the mayors of Bloomington, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Mendota Heights and Richfield onto the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC). I was pleased to have had several of these mayors testify beside me at the hearing. Mayor Winstead of Bloomington, Mayor Goettel of Richfield and Mayor Hamann -Roland of Valley came to the Capitol and North/South runway 17-35, the noise issues have come to affect residents south of the river. This has had a serious impact of the quality of life on residents surrounding the airport. Currently, the MAC has 13 appointed members, as well as the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Making room for additional mayors is long overdue. I want to thank all the mayors for their support of this bill, with a special thanks to Mayors Winstead, Goettel and Hamann -Roland. Senator John Doll Burnsville District 40 Simply The Best For Less! ANY SIZE $1 8 * 1 WISreMmnm '4feer6' er le Cad for ena1s INSTALLED WHITE DOUBLE - HUNG REPLACMENT WINDOW Windows, Siding, Soffit, Fascia, Doors. Leaf Proof Gutters, Roofs Storm Damage Repair CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE (651)770-5570 Lhowroo : 2211 11th Ave E E. St. Paul 6 mo O% Financing Available License #29356847 "We are totally satisfied with our windows & siding!"- Mr & Mrs, Sonnenfeid jaciout' V zeJ s Se , ' www.189WINDOW.com Scams FROM PREVIOUS PAGE "The banks and merchants on occa- sion take the checks without realizing that American Express doesn't even make a check for $500," he said. The other scam uses the same con- cept, but with more of a facade. What typically happens, said Evans, is the innocent victim will sell an item on the Internet and the buyer will send a check for more than what the item was sold for. The buyer will then say that they made a mistake and ask the seller to cash the check and send the extra money back. For example, Evans said an Eagan woman received five counterfeit postal money orders worth $850 a piece for a couch she sold for $400. Luckily, he said she was smart enough to figure out it was a scam and reported it to police. He said peo- ple can get hit by this scam twice, as they are out the money that they sold the item for, as well as being held responsible for all the cash received from the check, unless the check writer can be tracked down. Evans' advice to the public - be suspi- cious of something that seems way too good to be true. He said people should wait and check with a knowledgeable source, or the police, if they suspect something awry. Otherwise, they'll be the ones who are on the hook for the cash. "It's kind of the general caveat - buyer beware," said Evans. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth,cnpa pers. com.) without walls Eagan church sends 250 volunteers into the community on a Sunday GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Those who showed up for regular Sunday services at Woodcrest Church April 22 likely found an empty church. Members were out doing something else. Instead of having a morning service, the Eagan church worshipped by helping vo For what it's worth Eagan event puts price on antique collectables GRANT BOELTESUN NE PAPERS Curious hthat old clock is worth? Or, how about that picture collect- ing dust in the basement that your hus- band inherited from his grandmother? A special program is being planned in Eagan for those interested in explor- ing the value of their "priceless items." Bonnie Lindberg and Jim Marrinan of Appraisal Specialists Midwest will come to the Eagan Community Center to appraise antique items, as well as tell stories related to certain items Saturday, April 28. The Antique Assessment Show, coordinated by the Eagan Seniors, is scheduled 1-3 p.m. "I think in essence it's a miniature Antique Road show. It works just like it does on televi- sion," said Yvonne Krisnik, who organized this year's event for the Eagan Seniors. "We appraise just about everything, except for jewelry and dolls," said Lindberg, as she and Marrinan travel the state doing assess- ment shows along with operating an assessment shop in St. Louis Park. "We give them a verbal opinion" on the value of items, said Lindberg. "It's not a formal appraisal - a writ- ten, researched appraisal - it's an assessment," said Krisnik. The slots to have items assessed at the event have already been filled, as there is only time to assess 100 items during the two hours. People pay $5 per item to have them assessed and are limited to three items. However, she said half the fun is getting to see what people bring and to learn about the items. WHAT'S NEXT What: Fourth Annual Antique Assessment Show When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 28 Where: Loan Oak Room, Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway Information: www.cityofeagan. com or 651-675- 5500 ANTIQUES: TO PAGE 31A LOOK INSIDE THIS SECTION FOR MONEY -SAVING INSERTS HEARTVACVI Permax® (used to treat Parkinson's disea: been voluntarily pulled from the market in the New England Journal of Medicine and heart valve disease. Another drug to valvular heart disease. Patients with not experience any symptoms, althoug heart palpitations, shortness of breath, YOU MAY BE EN CASH SET1 If you or a loved one has suffered valet ing or after using Permax® or Dostinex toll free at 1-800-619-3412 to find 11 Meshbesher L A W Y 1 1616 Park Avenue South, Mi CALL 1 -800 BEST Twin Cities Best One -Stop Now Also Offering Bamb Our Exclusive Line • Highest quality manau rattan • Choose from 800 fabrics • Different foam densities • Rush service available Nat • Ben 10 Bra • Whi • no Inte r F101 % 0 1 1 1 ANY PURCHASE • INCLUDES SALE I Cut & Save For A No purehasr necessary. I INTRODUCTORY OFFER 1 150% Off 1 1 BAMBOO CUTTING BOARD M Not Pe Come and see our large Bea HE STARTED WITH p� NOTHING..:u John Nasseff walks past Rice Park during a morning amble through St. Paul in late December. The 83-year-old multimillionaire philanthropist walks daily around downtown, where he lives, or the West Side, where he grew up as the sixth son of Lebanese immigrants. ... AND GAVE BACK ILLIONS ST. PAUL LEGACY John Nasseff Heart Center: Nasseff was the lead donor for the $25 million institute adjacent to United Hospital Nasseff Specialty Center: $26 million center finished last year Nasseff Neuroscience Center $15 million institute scheduled to be finished this year John Nasseff, born into poverty on the West Side, is repaying his gratitude to the city he loves by becoming one of St. Paul's greatest philanthropists. STORY BY ELLEN TOMSON PHOTOS BY CRAIG BORCK PIONEER.PRESS John Nasseff, St. Paul's multi- millionaire philanthropist, is obsessed with socks. For him, they have the allure of a luxury item, and they always will. Wearing hand-me-down socks, folded under his feet to cover holes, is a vivid childhood memory for the globetrotting 83- year-old. The son of illiterate Lebanese immigrants, he grew up with six siblings in a household where noth- ing was wasted. His mother care- fully ironed fabric scraps and sewed them together to peddle, clothe her own children and send to relatives even less fortunate in the old country. Nasseff's father staved off his children's hunger with peanut butter and day -old sliced bread he toasted and kept wrapped in a towel inside a big pot on the stove. Nasseff dropped out of school in ninth grade to help support his family but never forgot his parents' lessons about the value of hard work, giving to others and never wasting what you have. An efficiency expert years before anyone held such a job title, he parlayed his disdain for waste- fulness into an astounding career. He began unloading boxcars for West Publishing. He retired as vice president, board member and major stockholder of the company shortly after its sale in 1996 to Thomson Corp. for $3.4 billion. ST. PAUL SON, 8A CRAIG BORCK, PIONEER PRESS John Nasseff and his wife, Helene Houle, share breakfast at the Downtowner Woodfire Grill on St. Paul's West Seventh Street. "I never, ever thought I would be spending my life with him," she says. Until she got to know Nasseff, she found most men "uninteresting." The two have been married since 1995. St. Paul son (continued) At 72, he was suddenly wealthy beyond any dreams. Already known for his tough, flamboyant and generous nature, he began donating money to projects and causes connected to his family and its history, and to his community. He built a dental clinic in his mother's home village in Lebanon. He donated money to orphanages in Lebanon, Central America and Mexico. He sup- plied two-thirds of the money needed for a $3.5 million project to expand St. Maron's, a Min- neapolis church with predomi- nantly Lebanese -American members. He contributed money and equipment to the police and fire departments in St. Paul. And stories abound of his unexpected and anonymous donations to hardworking but impoverished individuals and families. Nasseff prefers a low profile. But his legacy to St Paul, the city he loves, has never been more apparent. After initially refusing friends' solicitations, he became the lead donor for a new $25 million heart hospital, now known as the John Nasseff Heart Center. It opened in July 2000 adjacent to United Hospi- tal. Next, he provided half the money for a nearby $10 million parking ramp and the Milton M. .Hurwitz ExerCare Fitness Cen- ter, which opened in 2002. He didn't stop there. The $26 million John Nasseff Spe- cialty Center was completed last year. A $15 million neuroscience institute is scheduled for com- pletion this year. "He just loves doing good with his resources," says Milton Hurwitz, a former United physi- cian Nasseff honored when he named the ExerCare center. "When he walks along the street and someone stops him, which they do often, and tells him how grateful they are for the care their loved one received, it's a thrill for him." Wealth didn't change him, says U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman, who worked on projects with Nasseff as mayor of St. Paul. "His generosity preceded his wealth," Coleman says. "I don't know if there is a truer son of St. Paul, a more loyal, heartfelt believer in this city." THE ROAD TO ST. PAUL A Tost of the city's inhabitants e still asleep when Nass- eff sets out for one of his daily walks around downtown St. Paul or the West Side, where he grew up. He points to remnants of his childhood — buildings, streets, an old storefront, Holy Family Church. The West Side Flats he knew is long gone, swept away by floods and demolition. Nasseff has regular stops on his daily circuits: the Down- towner Woodfire Grill on West Seventh Street; the St. Paul Hotel's lower -level cafe; his table at the St. Paul Grill with a view of Rice Park; the Concord Street firehouse; and Joseph's Grill, where he has Sunday breakfast with his older brother Art. He and his brother have out- lived their parents and all their siblings. Art keeps going with the help of more than a dozen coro- nary stents, and each brother has survived two heart surgeries. Their parents and two oldest siblings were born in Lebanon, but they are first -generation Americans, born and raised in St. Paul. Their uncle Yousseff was the first to leave behind the stone houses and shepherd's way of life on Mount Lebanon. He arrived in New York in 1906, where his name was changed to Joe. Their father, Betros, tried to follow in 1909 but was turned away at Ellis Island when health inspectors mistakenly concluded he had tra- choma, an infectious disease of the eye. He then boarded a ship he believed was bound for Cuba, hoping to go from there to Mexi- co to reach the United States. ,Instead, the ship sailed to Venezuela. It took him three years to finally reach Mexico. Nasseff's mother, Zmorrod, left Lebanon next with their two children to join her husband in Mexico. Civil war broke out and a third child was born before they saved enough money for train tickets to the Texas border. When they finally made it into the United States, armed men rushed their train and took all the men, including Betros, away. The women and children waited at the side of the track for a week. The men had been forced to lay track under threat jOHN MICHAEL NASSEFF Born: Feb. 22, 1924, in St. Paul Career: Former West Pub- lishing vice president, engi- neering and facilities; retired 1996 St. Paul philanthropy: John Nasseff Heart Center, Nasseff Specialty Center, Nasseff Neuroscience Center and the Milton M. Hurwitz ExerCare Fitness Center Honors: 2005 recipient of the Ellis island Medal of Honor sanctioned by Con- gress and awarded to out- standing American citizens in recognition of the immi- grant roots and diversity of the nation Married: Rose Hall, 1943; Helene Houle, 1995 Children: John Nasseff Jr. and Arthur Nasseff Words of wisdom from his Lebanese mother: "God knows" (the good you accomplish in life) and "Don't ever forget where you come from. Signature accessories: A beret on his head and a gold Cedar of Lebanon tlee on a gold necklace. CRAIG BORCK, PIONEER PRESS Joseph's Grill on St. Paul's West Side offers family time for John Nasseff, second from left, who visits with his older brother Art, left, and John's sons Art and John "Mickey" Nasseff. The restaurant is -owned by Nasseff's r;ephew Joseph Nass; ff and Joseph's son Michael. PHOTO COURTESY OF NASSEFF FAMILY Nasseff traveled to Lebanon in 1995 for the dedication of a dental clinic he had built in Bane, his mother's home village. He had the clinic named in her honor. of execution. Then, they were released. Nasseff's parents finally reached St. Paul in 1916 and reunited with Joe and his fami- ly. John Nasseff, their sixth son, was born eight years later. He was outgoing and seem- ingly fearless from the start. "Nothing appeared to scare him," his brother says. "He did anything he wanted to do." The boys jumped on cattle trucks at Third and Robert streets and rode them all the way to Hudson, Wis., where they would take dips in the St. Croix River. Art Nasseff never learned to swim but John swam well. Just last summer, John tried water skiing, Art says. As early as kindergarten, John Nasseff established himself as a boy who stood his ground when challenged. Bertha Apple- baum asked him to walk her boy Sidney to and from school in exchange for a bag of candy every week from the Apple- baum' grocery store. Sidney and Johnny Nasseff were born just a week apart, but Sidney was skin- ny and picked on by bullies. "He did take care of me," says Sid Applebaum, former president of Rainbow Foods, which grew out of Applebaum's grocery chain. "And I did all of his homework." At 12, Nasseff hitchhiked to Chicago and hopped freight trains headed east from there. He wanted to. see New York City. Nasseff attended Roosevelt School but dropped out of Hum- boldt High School. Applebaum, an honors student, was disap- pointed. "He just said, 'My dad's sick, my ma can't work and I gotta make some money.' And that was it," recalls Applebaum. Nasseff worked in a glove factory, delivered telegrams, pumped gas and then enlisted in the Army during World War lI. After the war, Art and anoth- er brother formed Nasseff Brothers Builders and built houses in St. Paul. John Nasseff, married by then, with a baby to support, wanted to join the busi- ness. But they turned him away. Their venture was risky, they argued. They pressed him to take a lowly but secure position at West Publishing. THE WEST STORY Nasseff started at West at age 22. He moved his family to a house his brothers built on the East Side and rode a bus to work until Art, who was still single, scraped together $45 and bought him a car. In later years, during a tough time for Art, Nasseff remembered his brother's kind- ness. He bought a new Ford Fair - lane 500 and gave it to Art. At West, Nasseff noticed ways the legal -publishing com- pany could save money in its printing operations. He pro- posed that his bosses pay him a percentage of the money he saved instead of a wage. Lee Slater, the plant manager, imple- mented many of Nassefi's ideas, and as Slater advanced in the company, Nasseff rose, too. Nassseff and his first wife, Rose Hall, have two sons, John and Arthur. They separated after the boys were grown. Nass- eff's life was work, and he rarely even allowed himself a vacation. "I was responsible for the property, and if something froze or broke down, I needed to be there," he says. The only West executive without a college or law degree, Nasseff became the company's vice president of engineering and facilities. He shrewdly invested his earnings through the years, buying land and shares in other businesses, including the St. Paul Saints hockey team. He oversaw the property purchase and con- struction of West's new head- quarters in Eagan. At West, he was part of an inner circle of executives allowed to purchase stock in the privately owned company. When West was sold, his share was about $175 million. "I just set out to work hard, provide for my family and have a good life," he says. "I feel good about what I accomplished, but I could be happy with a bed to sleep in at night. Happiness has to do with a frame of mind." A GIFT FROM THE HEART asseff's decision to finance the medical centers at Unit- ed Hospital began during a game of blackjack in Las Vegas in 1977. Milton Hurwitz, a Unit- ed physician on vacation, was playing the game when the pit boss suddenly plucked the doc- tor's cards from his hands, swept his chips into his jacket pocket and yanked him from his chair at the table. "He was pulling on me, telling me, `You gotta go, you gotta go now,' " Hurwitz says. The casino worker rushed Hurwitz to Nasseff, who had just suffered a heart attack in his hotel room. The pit boss knew Hurwitz well and Nasseff, too, and assumed that since they both lived in St. Paul, they knew each other. They did not, but were destined to become longtime, loyal friends. Hurwitz identified himself and persuaded the emergency team to increase drug dosages to relieve Nasseff's pain. Later, he met with the chief cardiolo- gist at the local hospital and asked the doctor to take care of Nasseff personally. "John was obviously in a state of great pain, as one is with an acute heart attack," Hurwitz says. "But he was han- dling it magnificently, with a great deal of presence of mind." Nasseff says his lifestyle of work, late hours and unhealthy habits set him up for a heart attack. "I had been burning the can- dle at both ends — big dinners, dessert, a cigar," says Nasseff, who is now so lean and fit he could pass for a man a decade younger. Twenty years later, United sought a lead donor for a new heart hospital. Nasseff had retired from West a year earlier and had the money to help out. Duke Adamski, president of the United Hospital Foundation, and others did their homework before setting up a lunch meet- ing to make their pitch. They had a scale model of the pro- posed building constructed. Nasseff's name was on it. They inquired at the St. Paul Grill about Nasseff's favorite meals. They pressed then -Mayor Norm Coleman to fly back from an event in Duluth the day of the meeting. The hospital's vice president for medical affairs and Nasseff's friends on the board and those otherwise linked to United were gathered, too. Hurwitz and Applebaum were among them. It was Apple- baum's job to get Nasseff to come to the meeting. "What's cooking?" Nasseff asked warily as the two headed to the lunch. Nasseff sat through the pres- entation and said, "You know, Pm not really interested," according to Adamski Coleman took anoth- er run at Nasseff, delivering an impassioned plea for support. "Look, P11 give you some- thing, but I'm not your major donor," Nasseff finally said. Driving home, Nasseff said to Applebaum: "I just want to tell you one thing. Don't ever ask me to lunch again." Applebaum replied, "If your Mom or Dad were alive and walking down •the street and saw the Nasseff name on a building, they would be so proud, their buttons would pop. ... And think about what you could do for St. Paul." When Nasseff arrived home, his wife, Helene Houle, told him he would be wrong not to back the project. She pointed out his family's long history of heart problems. "You should make the dona- tion," she said. "You should be willing to take that honor. How could you say no to the guy who saved your life?" CRAIG BORCK, PIONEER PRESS It's an early morning in late December, and John Nasseff has the streets and alleyways of downtown St. Paul to himself as he embarks upon his daily walk. St. Paul son (continued) They married in 1995, and in March 1997, Houle says he told her, "Get rid of that darn salon or I'm going traveling with someone else." On their first trip together, they stayed in Paris, traveled on the Orient Express and visited Venice, Florence and Rome. Nasseff is interested in archi- tecture and lingered in front of one beautifully detailed build- ing in particular, Houle recalls. "He said, It's a shame a per- son waits until they're in their 70s to see something like this.' Then he got a grip, though, and said, But some people will never see it at alL' " Nasseff loves to travel to learn about other cultures and was especially pleased to take his mother, who lived into her 80s, to Lebanon and Australia to visit relatives. He's taken trips to Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Dubai, Greece and, recently, India, where he noted children were honored with parades for their academic, rather than athletic, achievements. Nasseff has his priorities when it comes to financial sup- port. Colleges and universities can count on successful alumni for money, and arts organiza- tions can turn to the people who enjoy the arts, he has decided. "You can live without going to the opera, but you've got to put food on the table and have medical help when you need it," he says. His one regret in life? "I was not able to make my father's life easier," says Nass- eff. "He was born poor, and he died poor. He suffered and died when he was just 59." Nasseff attends musicals, comedies and other lightheart- ed theater shows. "I want to be entertained," he says. "I don't like anything serious." Nevertheless, he reads newg magazines for relaxation. Although he has contributed to candidates of both -major politi- cal parties in the past, he now avoids politicians and politics. "He's very disgusted with our society," Houle explains. "He says there are no true statesmen left, and politicians vote for what will get them re- elected instead of what's good for the country." Besides travel, Nasseff indulges himself with clothes and cars. His clothes are hand - tailored, usually to his specifi- cations, and he is inspired by outfits he sees in his travels, in magazines and onstage. He prefers capes to coats. He likes suit jackets with mandarin col- lars and lined in bright silk to match handkerchiefs. He has some outfits made all in one color, such as red or bright blue. As a boy, he scoured a dump for parts to collect and trade in order to build his own bicycle. Now he owns at least half a dozen cars, most of them Mer- cedes-Benz with license plates that spell out Lebanese words. When he looks out a win- dow from his 24th-floor condo- minium in downtown St. Paul, he can see his entire life spread before him, Nasseff tells visi- tors. "I can see the spot where I was born, the church where I. was baptized, the school where I went to kindergarten, the filling station I would work at in the summertime and West Publish- ing, standing in one spot in my living room," he says. "I can't explain it, but I feel good when I'm here. The West Side has a magnet in its soil for me." Ellen Tomson can be reached at etomson@pioneerpress.com or 651-228-5455. THE PERSONAL SIDE aelene Houle is a lot like her husband: independent, sharp in a practical way and hardworking. She is the daugh- ter of a Wisconsin dairy fanner, the third of seven children. She's always been great at styling hair and turned that tal- ent into a successful business. For 20 years, she owned Helen's French Flair in Highland Vil- lage, and for 14 years after that she operated a beauty salon in downtown St. Paul. Like Nasseff, she's something of a St. Paul fix- ture, and the two have known each other for years. "I never, ever thought I would be spending my life with him, though," she says. Until she got to know Nasseff, she found most guys "uninterest- ing." When he began calling her "very consistently" for dinner and other dates,_ she says she was cautious responding to him. "I've always said I never want to be with someone who doesn't want to be with me," she says. WE BUY USED GEAR ALL DAY, EVERY DAY! Check out our 2 Metro Locations: Burnsville • 14025 Grand Ave. S. (952) 435-3003 (35N & Cry 42, NE frontage road In McAndrews Center) Roseville • 1722 N. Lexington Ave. (651) 487-5600 ,Lexington & Larpenceur. NE corner in Lexington Plaza) BUY • SELL • TRADE Bring in this ad for 10% OFF Your Next Purchase. Offer expires 6, 1 07 Education Community ed director hired by John Gessner THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Burnsville -Eagan -Savage School District 191 has hired Tom Umhoefer, who started his career in the district, as its new community education di- rector. "It's good to be back," Um- hoefer told the School Board April 19. "It's been 11 years ' on the road, and I'm very ex - searches for ways to comple- ment the needs of K-12 edu- cation." In action April 19, the board: • Approved the layoffs of three clerical employees and probationary teachers whose ranks total about 50 full-time positions. The layoffs are the result of a $4 million budget cut for 2007-08 that followed voter rejection of last Novem- Climate/from lA developed this as a goal even before we had a couple of citizens ask if we would sign on to this agreement," he said. "It just made a lot of sense to sign on." Like many of his fellow citizens, Maguire said he is looking to reduce his own "carbon footprint." "I personally have a com- mitment to trying to de- crease my own contributions to global climate change," he said. Maguire is also participat- ing in a county group made up of representatives from several cities who are exam- ining what they can do and what other cities are doing to reduce energy consump- tion. The U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement fo- cuses on taking action at the local level, Maguire said, by developing plans to decrease the community's contribu- tion to greenhouse gases as much as possible. The city has already taken several measures to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. In 2005, it conducted an audit of its energy uses and ways it could be more efficient and reduce its energy consump- tion. As a result, many energy - reducing measures were im- plemented, such as installing energy -saving light fixtures and lamps in the city's newly constructed buildings, add- ing programmable thermo- stats and high -efficiency furnaces to park buildings, planting additional trees in parks, and replacing the hot water heaters in the Civic Arena with high -efficiency boilers. Cascade Bay will also un- dergo an energy audit this year to identify a plan to re- duce energy at that facility. For more information about the U.S. Mayors Cli- mate Protection Agreement, visit www.usmayors.org/cli- mateprotection. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 4A May 5, 2007 THtSWEEK uast CDI imn/St Finding new ways to put the unity in community by Mike Maguire MAYOR OF EAGAN One of the joys of being Eagan's mayor is engaging citi- zens and business owners in conversation about our future. Everyone has an idea to contribute, and I've learned there isn't just one Eagan community, but many communities of interest. When Interstate 35-E opened Eagan for rapid develop- ment in the 1980s, people still referred to us as a bedroom community or simply a suburb — not any more. Now Eagan has become the No. 1 job creator in the metro area and a leading magnet for knowledge workers. With the presence of major corporations and numerous small busi- nesses, more people now come to work in Eagan each day than leave it to commute to work. Ninety-five percent of residents rate the quality of life in Eagan as excellent or good. With the great parks, walking trails, schools and jobs here, Money magazine rates Eagan as one of the 12 most livable cities in America. While the city may be 96 percent built out, the important work of building a greater sense of community is not. That's why one of the City Council's goals these next two years is to enhance the quality of life in Eagan by facilitating commu- nity activities that promote civic engagement, volunteerism, and cultural activities. You can help. Start by attending Showcase Eagan, Thursday night, May 17 at the Eagan Civic Arena. From 5 to 7:30 p.m. you can stop by the booths of some 50 civic organizations, churches and non -profits ready and willing to involve your creative en- ergies. All the city departments will be there too to showcase services and information of interest to our citizens. Ask a question of the City Council, let the children experience po- lice and fire department demonstrations and explore some really big trucks. A second way you can help build community is by attend- ing the Wednesday night music series in Central Park called Marketfest, beginning June 20. Bring your neighbors and friends to shop the farmers market, listen to live music at the Rotary Band Shell, and relax for a little while. I don't believe that suburbs are "incubators of apathy and delirium," as the English critic Cyril Connelly once said. Eagan is a first-rate city with first-rate citizens who care about improving their community. As you build that garden retaining wall this summer, re- member that the talents and interests of our citizens are the building blocks for Eagan's future. The cement is all of us finding ways to put the unity in community. And as we set about the business of building a common vision for Eagan, talking to a new neighbor or giving your time to a civic organization jut might be the start of a great community -wide conversation. With all of us taking part, our future will be even better and brighter. Mike Maguire is the mayor of Eagan. Columns reflect the opinion of the author. TH SWEEK May 5, 2007 3A ATING .. T� v.�-.IT..- - - ��,.ditioner and furnace and you didn't call PARRIN you are paying too much 651-480-2155 cell: 612-205-0011 Credit Cards Accepted Locally Owned, insured Bonded, Experienced Kitchen Supply w �O grAT�O� S'�A GRANITE COUNTERTOPS 8 COLOR $2800 PER SQUARE FOOT INSTALLED HURRY - OFFER EXPIRES 5/31/07. High -Quality 1 Cherry & Maple Cabinets Are •_ Here! Update Your Kitchen This Summer! Box Cabinets, Maple & Cherry Small Kitchen (Ho' xlo') • $1,500 Don't Miss This Special Sale! 1 2 locations: Burnsville & Minnetonka • Please bring this coupon 1 L Coupon expires 5/31 /07 CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATES OR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Monday -Saturday 8-6; Sunday 9-5 F. 680 Travelers Trail • Burnsville, MN 55337 (Hwy. 13 & Portland Avenue) Phone: (952) 890-8899 Fax: (952) 890-9003 love at Coles! www.thisweek-online.com 11 Mayor signs climate lit"\ agreement Wb Maguire joins mayors across the U.S. who vow to take local measures against global warming by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan Mayor Mike Ma- guire recently became one of 453 mayors across the Unit- ed States to sign an agreement to fight global warming on the local lev- el. Maguire is the 19th mayor in Minnesota to sign the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agree- ment, and the third in the south metro, joining the mayors of Burnsville and Apple Valley. The agreement challenges mayors to adopt the goals of the Kyoto Protocol in their own communities through land -use policies, forest res- toration projects, and public information campaigns. It also asks them to urge state and federal lawmakers to enact legislation that would reduce greenhouse gas emis- sions that contribute to global warming. Eagan has always been committed to preserving natural resources, Maguire said, pointing out the city's efforts to preserve open spaces. See Climate, 5A Mayor Mike Maguire 62, d rown',pTiRf'pyn 'O down, plus 1" payment & tic..'299 27 MO ONLY Thank you for reading our disclaimer. 0% for 60 months Eagan mulls 5/z�'' 6, finance options for overpass GRANT BOELTER F SON NEWSPAPERS A new bridge near the existing post office headquarters would deliver traffic across Interstate 35E, but Eagan offi- cials are trying to figure out how to pay the postage. At a special meeting May 8, the Eagan City Council discussed how to approach dedicating funding for a $5 million "ring road" project along Denmark Avenue. The project would include a highway overpass and is designed to provide traffic relief on Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob roads. The project is celled for in the city's 2008-2012 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), but it is forecasted that the city will be $3.5 million short for the projects included in the plan, with the ring road project being the most expensive. The project also depends on cooperation from the U.S. Postal Service, as the new road would pass through part of its land between Denmark and Lexington avenues. City Public Works Director Tom Colbert said the city has not had to work with such a deficit before, attributing most of the problem to the amount the city had to pitch in for the recently start- ed Highway 149 improvements. The city has looked for partnership on the "ring road" project from the state and COUNCIL: TO PAGE 15A lucting a clinical research investigational device that delivery method called investigational topical ffectively reduces healing :old sores. must be 18 to 75 years of age nt cold sores in the past year. sore right now to be eligible to f up to $750 is available for In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Council FROM PAGE 1A federal governments, but has not received any promise of financial support so far, said Mayor Mike Maguire. Colbert said if the project was delayed, improvements scheduled to start in 2009 on Yankee Doodle Road will not hold up as they are designed to. While Maguire said projects aren't required to be completed in the timetable laid out by the CIP, he and other council members agreed on the impor- tance of getting the project done. "At some point in time, we have to find funding for projects that are needed," said Councilmember Peggy Carlson, as wait- ing around for other funding sources to step forward would be "passing the buck." The council will send the project to the city's finance committee to explore the option of removing the project from the roads portion of the CIP to form a fund dedicated solely to the project. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) In the Community, With the Community, For the Community EAGAN • MAY 17, 2007 al U 750 Vol. 32, No. 20 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com Wars Eagan sisters on fast track PAGE 22A More than 1,000 marijuana plants found in Eagan home GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS A May 6 raid on an Eagan home by the Dakota County Drug Task Force turned up 1,132 marijuana plants. According to the criminal complaint: Agents from the drug task force came to the door of a house for which they had a search warrant at 4906 Rusten Road at 6:49 p.m. After no one answered, the agents forced the door open and found Nils Bau Tomasso, 20, tending to marijua- na plants in the basement of the home. After searching the home, the agents found plants in both the basement and an upstairs bedroom that ranged from 4 inch- es to 4 feet tall. They also found chemicals used to grow marijuana, two 50-inch glow lights and three smaller glow lights. Other mari- juana paraphernalia was also found. Tomasso was charged with two con- trolled substance crimes and one attempted con- trolled substance crime. He could face a maximum of 25 years in jail. John Grant, head of the Dakota County Drug Task Force, said his agency had been working with law enforce- ment officials from Washington County Nils Bau Tomasso leading up to Sunday's raid. Police also raided two homes May 6 in Oakdale that were found to be growing marijuana. Grant said it is suspected the growing oper- ations in the three homes are connected. However, Grant said Tomasso, who is not the owner of the home in Eagan, might be a part of a bigger operation. "I think he was growing and maintaining it," said Grant. "I'm guessing he was not our number one target." Grant had no comment on the home's owner. While his agency would continue to investigate the case, Grant said he was glad that they were able to confiscate what he valued at $1.6 million worth of marijuana. "I think we took a good quantity of dope off the streets," he said, adding that marijuana that was found is consid- ered high quality. "It's spendy dope." Tomasso is being held in Dakota County Jail and his next court appearance is 1:30 p.m. June 4. Tomasso's case will likely be dealt with at the federal level, as with most drug cases of this magnitude, said Monica Jensen, community relations director for the district attorney's office. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth @acnpapers. com.) 2A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, May 17, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community WRITING renews Is the humidity starting to sap your creative energy? There's nothing like a writing class and a fresh pencil 10 sharpen your focus and spark imagination with a writing class from the Loft. All skill and experience levels welcome! At Wescott Library Mother Words with Kate Hopper Tuesdays, June 12 - July 24, 1:00 - 3:oopm Creating Dynamic Story People with Lori L. Lake Saturday, July 14 (workshop), 12:30 - 5:00pm Info & online registration: www.loft.org r LOFT The Loft Literary Center Questions? 612-379-8999 Three women take on adventure of a lifetime Dakota County trio plans 110-mile trek across English countryside ERICA CHRISTOFFER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Faced with her 50th birthday Feb. 21, Teena Risley wanted to do something big - really big. So she grabbed two friends and started training for the adventure of their lives. Risley of Apple Valley, Lois Rockney of Mendota Heights and Liz Matt Goodhart Construction Sidin If you've been denied a claim Call Us We Can Help! Schwarzbauer of Eagan will hike 110 miles of countryside along Cotswold's Way in England June 1-17. "It's a way to prove to myself that turn- ing 50 is not old," Risley said. "I wanted to do something extreme and really unique." Cotswold's Way is part of the United Kingdon's National Trail System. It starts in a town called Chipping Camden and ends in the ancient city of Bath. The trail winds through the English country- side, passing castles, villages and tiny hamlets, churches and historic sites. The women will stay in farmhouses and bed and breakfast inns along the route. "I asked, 'Are there buses and trains in case I get behind?" Schwarzbauer joked. "We'll have fun if nothing else." The three women met through their bowling league in Eagan. "We don't look the part; we're not ath- letes or svelte hikers," said Risley. "Just a group of middle-aged women wanting a challenge, a `something' that makes us unique and challenges ourselves." They started training for the hike during the winter by walking around the Mall of America. "We only window shopped," said Rockney. WALKERS: TO NEXT PAGE Construction begins on Highway 149 ,//z/67 Portion of highway will be closed beginning Monday Erin ohnson HISWEEK WSPAPERS A _nit' •. nt portion of Highway 149 will be closed starting Monday as work be- gins to expand the roadway and increase its safety. The project will expand the highway from two lanes to four lanes beginning at High- way 55 and ending at Rich Valley Boulevard in Inver Grove Heights. During construction, the highway will be closed to traf- fic from Yankee Doodle Road to Albano Trail, which is ex- pected to cause significant de- lays. Traffic will detour on high- ways 55 and 3 during the proj- ect, and access to businesses on Highway 149 is expected to be maintained throughout the project. Signs will be posted to direct traffic to detour routes and various businesses. Expanding the road's ca- pacity for increasing traffic is one reason for the upgrade, said Eagan City Engineer Russ Matthys. "It was really pushing the limit of a two-lane highway," he said. But, improving safety is also a major impetus of the project. "Safety's a big component of the improvements and why we received some federal mon- ey," he said. The intersection of High- way 149 and Wescott is of particular concern, he said, because it has a high rate of accidents. Residents have been lobbying for years to improve the safety of that intersection, and now a traffic light will be added. Other safety issues in- clude the number of left -turn See Highway, 11A CHARGERS 0 % PLUS $500 Equipped Not Stripped Air Dual Zone Temp Control, Middle Row Captain Chairs, Power 'MIMI>. -. (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), CD Player, Sunscreen Glass MSRP $23,415 41x2La Discount-$1,916 $??1, 27 MO Rebate -$3,000 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & lie. = 0 down, plus 1 ° payment & lie. ='299 07 Caliber Auto, Air, CD Player, Cell Phone/ MP3 Holder, Tilt & More! MSRP. $16.435 Cal 35W or scig)Mott Mon Highway 149 will be closed from Yankee Doodle Road to Albano Trail in Inver Grove Heights beginning Monday. The map above shows the detour routes around the construction project. Highway/from 1A accesses on and off of the highway, which can be dan- gerous on a two-lane road. A concrete median will be in- stalled to limit the number of possible left turns, and some dedicated left -turn lanes will be added. Although it's a state high- way, the city took the lead to expedite the project because state transportation funds are scarce. "The state wasn't really planning to do much with the roadway," Matthys said. The total cost of the proj- ect is about $13.8 million. The city will contribute about $4.6 million of that, with the rest coming from the state, fed- L. eral funds, and Inver Grove Heights. Significant construction on the project is expected to be completed by Dec. 1, although some segments of the highway could open as early as Aug. 15, Matthys said. Project and detour infor- mation are available at www. dot.state.mn.us/metro/proj- ects/hwy149. Although it is not directly on Highway 149, the YMCA located on Opperman Drive will be impacted by the proj- ect. To access the YMCA throughout construction, visi- tors can take Yankee Doodle or Wescott roads to Argenta Trail, which intersects Opper- man Drive. A link to more informa- tion on the project will also be posted on the city's Web site, www.cityofeagan.com. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. rom mstrtutiona 1 n omed. "Community -based thera- py is best," she said. "It is the pest way so far for people who re discouraged to try to make 'Wore effective lifestyles for hemselves." She said the 20 to 30 Dakota County residents that are daily picked up and brought to Ho- -izons suffer from illnesses like schizophrenia, depression, bi- polar or multiple personality new way to 'call ommon Ground Alliance hows that only 33 percent of >omeowners bother to have util- ties marked before they begin Jigging projects "With 65,000 miles of pipe- ines and other utilities under innesota soil, private home- owners' lack of caution is a huge concern in terms of potential damage," said Charles Kenow, administrator of Minnesota's Office of Pipeline Safety. He $79.95 ,ir Conditioner or Furnace CLEAN & CHECK Angell Aire 952-746-5200 Must be presented at the time of quote. of be combined with any other coupon or offers. 1 Call for details. Expires 05/31 /07 r J Up to $1,100 in 1 CASH -BACK REWARDS 1 Including Utility Rebates 1 on Select Heating & 1 Cooling Systems 1 Angell Aire 952-746-5200 1 tll Must be presented at the time of quote. 1 t be combined with any other coupon or offers. 1 Call for details. Expires 05/31/07 approved credit through 05/31 /07. more affor a e age services by working with other entities. "We really don't know where this is going to go. But we have an idea and we have passion from a fair number of groups. We're going to follow through and see where we go with it," she said. Laura Adelniann is at dceditor@frontiemet.net. before they dig' added that despite the state's ex- isting "One -Call" system, Min- nesota's second leading cause of utility damage in 2006 was fail- ure to have utility lines located before digging. Minnesotans can already ac- cess utility locator services on- line at www.gopherstateonecall. org or by calling (651) 454-0002. The 811 number, Kenow said, adds a quick and easy option. "We're hoping this new 811 number will help even more private citizens to protect them- selves and others by having utilities marked so they can dig safely," Kenow said. 4 r f Voted by TC Readers Choice Awards y '� `" ' 4 DOG DAYCARE 0,, bred 4 BOARDING FACILITY WWW.DOGDAYGETAWAY.COM 4 CAGELESS DAYCARE 4OVERNIGHT CARE BATHING 4 SPECIALTY COLLARS 4 LIVE WEBCA HA HOME LIKE EAVIROk ne rr wrTh A Ht&HER (IDIOT/ OF ra2F FOR VOA 6Esr make 952.431. WOOF D 4 There's something for sly z /67 everyone at Showcase Eagan Event will feature a variety of community groups, city services, police and fire demonstrations and more by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Are you looking to become more involved in your com- munity but not sure how to get started? Showcase Eagan, a new city event, aims to make it easier for residents to see the many oppor- tunities that the city has to offer. The event will feature more than 50 community groups and volunteer organizations, from churches and nonprofit orga- nizations to military support groups and groups that support the art& In addition, personnel from all of the city's departments will be on hand to present demon- strations and answer questions about the city's many services. Showcase Eagan will be held at the Eagan Civic Arena from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 17. "This is a new event formed out of two events we did previ' ously," said Eagan Director of Communications Tom Garri- son. "We think we've come up with a pretty valuable concept, and from the feedback we've re- ceived from the groups involved, I think people are looking for- ward to it." The event will feature many family -friendly activities and fun photo opportunities. Par- ticipants can watch police K-9 demonstrations, tour the new Emergency Command vehicle, and see the fire department put out an engine fire. Arbor Day will be celebrated with a tree planting, and children can learn how voting machines operate and how to run the city See Showcase, 5A Big Horn Edition-20" Wheels & Tires 5.7 Hemi. Auto, Air Rr. Slider,1 Yr. FREE Sinus Radio, CD, Power (Wind., Locks, Mirrs.) Fog Lamps, t �----: Trlr. Tow Group, Overhead Tnp MSRP $35,875 Discount -$4,480 27 M0sident Bonus -$1,000 ONLYI 00 ount -$936 Disc. -$931 _. ... 1:i 500 - ;;� �., ;.. '2,000 down, plus 1^ payment & lic. ='259 $ZD�J� °V n plus 1 payment & lic. ='269 �� q down, Plus 1 ^payment 8 lic. _ `315 '0 down, plus 1 • payment & lic. ='325 Magnum Engine CD Player, Air Conditioning, 40/20/40 Cloth Seat, Tilt & More! MSRP $22,125 Discount -$3,126 Resident Bonus -$1,000 Reb00 S 0% for 36 months m lieu of rebate or dealer incenfive. lease pymn . tax, 1st pymt and Irc fees due in advance. No security deposit rewired. 04 MONTE CARLO SS 2dr, Cpe. Supercharged,$4 7 a 3.8L 6Cyl. 2 DR nova Fif 06 DODGE STRATUS 07 Du SLT With 06 TOYOTA MATRIX 4dr, Wgn. XR Auto SE $ 2dr. con Showcase/from 1A for a day. "I think parents will want teens to experience the so-called `fatal vision' goggles that simu- late what it is like to try to pass a sobriety test if a driver is drunk, or to see how water testing is done," Garrison said. The Parks and Recreation Department will have a variety of games available, such as a bean bag toss, ladder golf, and free miniature golf at Captain's Course. Property owners can see an aerial view of their home during a Web demonstration, and live music will play throughout the event. "We're doing this to reinforce the great sense of community in Eagan and all there is to do and experience in our city," said City Administrator Tom Hedges. THISWEEK May 12, 2007 5A "We want to create that sense of connection." Free hotdogs, chips, popcorn and soft drinks will be available while supplies last, and the event will be held rain or shine. For more information, visit wwwcityofeagan.com or call (651) 675-5000. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 6A May 12, 2007 THISWEK TREE SERVICE • Removal • Trimming • Branch Grinding • Complete Clean-up • Landscaping Certified The Inspectors - Member MSA ISA Certified Arborist #MN-4I70A Home & Commercial - Licensed & Insured HUSTON'S JEFF AND NYLE Over 30 Years Experience 952-953-4859 FREE ESTIMATES Chapel Hill VBS Chapel Hill Church in Eagan will be holding Vacation Bible School (VBS) from 9 a.m. to noon June 25-29. This year's theme is "Game Day Central: Where Heroes Are Made!" During this week of nonstop action, children will enjoy crafts, o111)Z,c1 Power transmission project will impact Dakota County . Property owner notifications begin this month Laura lmann THISWEEK N v SPAPERS So e Dako : County land- owner • will r: • ive notification that the • . perty is inside wide corridors being considered to build a system of major electri- cal transmission lines through- out the state. "We're notifying far more people than will ultimately be affected by the lines," said Mary Sandok, media relations rep- resentative with Xcel Energy. "Once we pick the routes, they'll be far narrower than (what the map shows)." The maps are part of the $1.3 billion Capacity Expansion by 2020 (CapX 2020) plan, a major power line expansion proposal developed by 11 utilities to en- sure adequate energy availability, especially into the southeastern areas of the state. Two of three major electrical transmission lines proposed are coming into Dakota County: One is a 230-mile line project led by Great River Energy, and runs from Brookings South Dakota to southeast of the Twin Cities. Xcel Energy is leading the project portion proposing de- velopment of transmission lines from southeast of the Twin Cit- ies into Rochester and continu- ing to La Crosse, Wis. Another line would run 205 miles between Fargo, N.D., St. Cloud and Monticello, and a 70-mile transmission line is proposed between Bemidji and Grand Rapids in north central Minnesota. The corridors in Dakota County identified as potential locations are approximately 12- miles wide, but the fmal route will be 150 feet wide. Randy Fordice, communi- cations coordinator for Great River Energy, said identifying the broader corridors will allow them more flexibility to work with local landowners and gov- ernments to identify the ultimate routes. He added that property needed for transmission lines will be obtained by purchasing permanent easements, which al- lows property owners to retain ownership but reduces allowable uses. He said property owners will still be allowed to plant crops or bushes, but fences or other struc- tures will likely not be permitted to ensure utility access to the poles if needed. In addition, another 10 to 15 acres of land is needed for locat- ing a new substation, but that property will be purchased out- right, and will likely necessitate the purchase of at least 40 acres to provide buffers, Sandok said. "We prefer a large buffer around substations for several reasons, including that it allows us to minimize the amount of development near the site. If the site is agricultural, we would lease any land that's not being used for the substation to the previous landowner or other landowners," she said. An area in Hampton is pre- ferred by the utilities to locate the substation, but an alternate site is also being considered. After potentially impacted Dakota County property own- ers are sent letters regarding the C [ IpX c1I/Ii7H c' Eleven electric cooper- atives, municipalities and investor -owned utilities form the CapX alliance. They are: Dairyland Power Co- operative; Great River Energy; Midwest Mu- nicipal Transmission Group; Minnesota Power; Minnkota Power Cooper- ative; Missouri River En- ergy Services; Otter Tail Power Company; Roches- ter Public Utilities; South- ern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency; Wisconsin Public Power Incorporat- ed; and Xcel Energy. project this month, the CapX 2020 consortium will apply to the state Public Utilities Com- mission for a Certificate of Need. Numerous other state and federal permits are needed for the project, and it will take years to complete the process. Informational open houses are planned this summer and fall. By next year, a route plan will be filed with various agencies and ultimate routing decisions for the lines throughout the state will be made by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. Construction of the lines is not expected to begin until 2010-2014; negotiations with impacted property owners is anticipated to occur during the years 2009-2012. Fordice emphasized the utilities are willing to work with property owners to have as little impact on their land as possible. He said while some electri- cal transmission towers could be placed through a farm field, they will attempt to make ad- justments to ease the impact, like placing the poles along property lines. Although CapX 2020 rep- resentatives plan to work with landowners to come to mutual agreements, the consortium will have eminent domain rights as well, said Fordice, who called the process a "last resort." Transmission lines construct- ed will be above -ground, because the cost increases tenfold for putting the lines underground. he said. He emphasized that the lines are needed to handle the electri- cal needs of the growing popula- tion, estimated to increase by 1.3 million people by 2050. "It's been a little more than 25 years since a project like this has been undertaken, and we're to the point now where we need to start thinking of the next 25 years to make sure that we can continue to have the kind of re- liability record we've had in the state and region," Fordice said. For information about the project, visit www.capx2020. com or call (1-800) 473-2279. Laura Adelmann is at dceditor@frontiernet.net. Opiiii'n p'Ct$r' 7 Rochester Posusetin Co.LLC. Ed Fischer Syndicate fscher® post -bled,. corn Letters False attacks To the editor: A letter from U.S. Rep. John Kline's district director, Mike Osskopp, contains sev- eral mischaracterizations and falsehoods about Kline's re- cent town hall meeting. Here's one fact: Our group obtained permission from the school's principal to gather in the cafeteria before the town hall meeting, but Kline's staff demanded that we stay out. Because we cooperated and stood outside the school, Transit funding needed now To the editor: Recent reporting has covered transportation issues related to congestion and commute times. Transportation is about more than just bigger roads. We also need to invest in public transit to get people around. Currently, our environment is polluted and our public health is suffering be- cause we our dependent on mo- tor vehicles for our every move. Transit is healthy. It's healthy for the . lanet, healthy for our care coverage to the young is more affordable than ignoring problems until an emergency room visit is required. It is the basic role of government to take care of people in need, and it is the right thing to do. The Children's Defense Fund points to two federal programs that could help — the State Children's Health Insurance Program, and Medicaid. In addition, the Minnesota Leg- islature could expand Minne- sotaCare and eliminate the ad- ministrative barriers to access. I hope and pray that our leaders find the moral courage to take care of our children, our future. DENISE SJOBERG Eagan Goodbye and good luck, Mike Hatch To the editor: It's probably better that Mike Hatch is leaving the Attorney General's Office. I was thrilled Lori Swanson arranged to keep him on and saddened that the experiment seems to have failed. It's time for the new attorney general to stand on her own and move forward. Nevertheless, Hatch deserves better than the treatment he got over the past week. Few have done as much as him for those who can't take on the powerful by themselves. In an era in which special in- terest groups run amok on both sides of the political aisle, we should applaud Hatch's dedi- cation to regular Minnesotans whose voice would otherwise have been drowned out over the past decade. We need more peo- ple in public life who share the same unflinching commitment to those who put them in office. As Hatch leaves government, it's time to stop the obnoxious piling on and thank him for his service to us. He deserves at least that much. Good luck, sin CHRISTOPHER TRUSCOTT Eagan In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Awards FROM PAGE 1 A final approval. "As the chief of police, I really have little input in the process," said McDonald. "I would hope the officers and the public agree with me that these awards are very meaningful because they come from the people who do the work." Ten awards, including eight Certificates of Commendation, one Award of Merit and one Medal of Honor, were given at the ceremony. Lance Cpl. Daniel Olsen, Medal of Honor. Olsen, 20, was shot and killed April 2 while guarding a police station in Iraq. "Law enforcement really knows no boundaries," said McDonald before pre- senting Olsen's parents, Wayne and Gwen, and sister, Shaina, with the department's highest honor. "Just seeing the young Marines and what they do is awe inspiring. Enough can't be said about Lance Cpl. Olsen," said First Sgt. Peter Siaw, who was one of a number of Marines who attended the ceremony in honor of Olsen. Retired Officer Mike Schrader, Award of Merit. Schrader began his police career in 1988 and retired last October. He was responsible for starting the department's chaplain program. Eagan Police Detective Unit, Certificate of Commendation. The detective unit was recognized for track- ing down a suspect who stole $250,000 worth of property. Police Explorers Kevin Eldridge and Josh Grub, Certificate of Commendation. Eldridge and Grub were on park patrol when they spotted someone trying to break into a car and then tracked down the suspects in the woods near the park. Lockheed Security Officer Jordan Kirsh and Ryan McCuen and Holly Johnson, Citizen's Certificate of Commendation. With the help of McCuen and Johnson, Kirsh tracked down a driver who fled the scene of an accident, who was later charged with a DWI. Officer Lisa Francher, Certificate of Commendation. Francher worked with a female victim of domestic vio- lence to bring charges against her abus- er and get herself into a safe situation. Austin Piper, Citizen's Certificate of Commendation. Austin, 7, ran to a neighbor's house and called 911 after his great-grandmother collapsed while she was playing football with him. She made a full recovery after being brought to the hospital. Nicki Dreier, Citizen's Certificate of Commendation. Dreier spotted a 2- year-old on the steps alone in front of a house in the middle of winter. The child was brought to safety after Dreier called police. Chaitanya Anand, Citizen's Certificate of Commendation. Anand was chatting with a neighbor after returning from work when the neighbor collapsed. Anand administered CPR AWARDS: TO NEXT PAGE L_ In the Community,With the Community, For the Community EDUCATION EV dance team tryouts Auditions for the 2007-08 Eastview Lightning Dance Team are taking place now. Registration began at 3 p.m. May 21 and tryouts are 3:30-6 p.m. May 21-24. Check the website at www.district 196.org/evhs/athletics/multisea- son/danceteam/ for more information. There is no formal dance training required. Dewey scholarship In honor of Dick Dewey's retirement as principal of Eastview High School and his many years of service to students, the Eastview Community Foundation (EVCF) has created the Dewey Educator's Scholarship. This scholarship will be pre- sented to a graduating senior who plans to go into the education field. The first Dewey Educator scholarship will be awarded June 4, at the annual EVCF scholarship ceremony. The EVCF is collecting funds to create an endowment of the Dewey Educator's scholarship - a common method used to ensure a scholarship will continue to grow in value. The goal is to raise $12,500, so the EVCF can continue to award this scholarship for years to come. Contributions for this scholarship are being collected: Via the EVCF website: http://www.evcforg/Sponsors/Donations.php ere the contribution can go on a cred- EVCF at P.O. Box 240905, Apple Valley, Minnesota 55124. "Dewey Scholarship" should be indicated on the memo line. Donor names will be listed in the EVCF scholarship ceremony booklet and on the EVCF website. All donations are tax deductible. The Eastview Community Foundation (EVCF) is a local community organization that exists for the immediate and long- term support of academics, arts, and ath- letics in the Eastview community. The Foundation serves schools in the Eastview community, which include Highland, Diamond Path, Greenleaf, Thomas Lake and Oak Ridge Elementary Schools, Black Hawk, Falcon Ridge and Scott Highland Middle Schools, the School of Environmental Studies and Eastview High Schools, and Dakota Ridge. Information: www.evcf.org. Students of Distinction Several Burnsville -Savage -Eagan School District residents recently earned Student of Distinction honors in District 917. The honor is given for performance in career and technical education at Dakota County Secondary Technical Center. District 191 winners included Azeza Ally (Food Industry Careers), Amanda Jaworski (Medical Careers), Michael Herdine (Community Based Work Experience), Daniel Davis (Graphics), Randy Mickelson (Construction Trades) ra m-^• ^r McGurran (Heavy Duty In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Awards FROM PREVIOUS PAGE until an ambulance arrived and his neighbor was rescued. Officer Dan Tacko, Certificate of Commendation. Tacko was able to enter the house of a man who was threatening suicide and wielding a knife. Tacko was able to control the situ- ation until other officers were able to subdue the man with TASERs and chem- ical spray before he was brought to safe- ty (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth (a),acnpapers. com.) In the Community, With the Community, For the Community ON THE AGENDA Thursday, May 24 Clubs Speak-N-Eagan Toastmasters, 6:30 p.m., Rasmussen Business College, 3500 Federal Drive, Eagan. Information: 952-890-7547. Big Apple Toastmasters, 6:45 p.m., Edina Realty Building, 7668 W. 150th St., Apple Valley. Information: 651-423-7266. HIGHLIGHTS Thursday, May 24 BLOODMOBILE: 1-6 p.m., St. Martha & oral Church, 4180 Lexington Eagan's finest honor finest Eagan Police hand GRANT BOELTER SUN NEWSPAPERS out annu�4�wartls These awards'pr6ve the Eagan Police Department is more than just the men and women in blue. The department gave out its annual awards at a ceremony May 15 and the recipients included a soldier, a young boy, a security guard, as well as police officers. "We really rely on the good work of the public and the institutions we work with," said Police Chief James McDonald. The awards are determined after the department receives nominations from employees and the public. Then a com- mittee makes the final choices for the awards and they are sent to the chief for AWARDS: TO PAGE 16A WITH THIS COUPON GET A Small coffee & bagel with cream cheer,,,, for only PI.0 440 One coupon per person, per visit. Not valid with any other offer. Only original coupon will be accepted. Prices do not include tax. Valid at all participating locations. Expires 6-2007 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community How much money should go to parks in Eagan? New development spurs council to re-examine formula for parks dedication -fees GRANT BOELTER • ISUN MEWSPAPERS How much should new developers pay to make sure there is still room to play? That's the question that the Eagan City Council will tackle after one pro- posal at the council's May 15 meeting caused council members to raise their eyebrows at how much one developer was asked to pay in park dedication fees. Interstate Partners brought a prelim- inary subdivision request before the council for a new business park at 565 Lone Oak Road, which is near the Inver Grove Heights border. The development, which would include five one-story buildings and two five -story buildings, would be assessed $1.2 million in park dedication fees. This was the first time the council got a look at how a new for- mula established last November for assessing parks dedication fees looked when put into action, said City Administrator Tom Hedges. "I'm shocked," said Councilmember Peggy Carlson. "I'm not in favor of what I'm seeing here." "I have no bones about my desire to get park dedication fees into the city, but there's a point where I start to feel guilty about it and this might be it," said Mayor Mike Maguire. The city's Parks Commission devised a new formula for parks dedication fees last fall after the Legislature passed a law requiring cities to base their formu- las on square footage in new buildings, rather than on acreage, as the city had in the past. Commercial buildings are assessed $1,737 per 1,000 square feet under the new formula, while under the old, new developments were charged $6,080 per acre fit for construction. While not all of the 85 acres owned by Interstate Partners is fit to be built on, if they were charged for that amount under the old formula, they would have to pay $516,000. Greg Miller, speaking on behalf of Interstate Partners, said he would allow the council to approve the plan while the formula is sent back to the finance com- mittee to work on a new formula. "We do have a tenant and we do want to get our building built," said Miller, as the company is planning to,begin con- struction on one of the subdivided lots. PARKS: TO PAGE 17A In the Community, With the Community, For the Community BACK Premi Plug • Firm • P1` Your u Parks FROM PAGE 4A Parks Commission Chair Dorothy Peterson will also work with the com- mittee in coming up with the new for- mula. Hedges said the council would also have to figure out how trails that are planned for the development will fac- tor in how Interstate Partners is assessed. In lieu of paying parks ded- ication fees, developers can also donate a portion of their land for parks. "Is it an amenity to just the development or does it fit the role of public good?" is the question that the council will need to answer, said Hedges. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at suncurrentsouth@acn- papers.com.) valley Cadet Squadron Civil Air Patrol, 7-9 p.m., Burnsville City Hall, 100 Civic Center Parkway. Information: 952-894-7220. Government Burnsville -Eagan Cable Communications Commission, 7 p.m., meetings alternate between Burnsville and Eagan city halls. Information: 952- 895-4400. Miscellaneous Bingo, sponsored by Rosemount American Legion Post 65, 6:45 p.m., 14590 Burma Ave. Information: 651-423-3380. Community meal, 5:30-6 p.m., free meal for seniors, single families and families who need to stretch their food dollars, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 3930 Rahn Road, Eagan. Information: 651-454-2344. 9C Ave. S., Eagan. Information: 1-800 LIFE. Apple Valley community group, River City Mortgage Building, 1895 Plaza Drive, Suite 250, Eagan. Information: 952-746-5611. Executive Connections Business Referrals. 7:30 a.m., Commons on Marice, 1380 Marice Drive, Eagan. Information: 651-248-0878. Rotary -Apple Valley, breakfast and meeting, 7 a.m., Enjoy! Restaurant, 15435 Founders Lane, Apple Valley. Information: 952-432-2001. Shepherd of the Valley Mom's Group, 9:30- 11:15 a.m., 12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley. Information: 651-344-3120. Toastmasters, Riverbluffers, 7:30 a.m., Cenex Land 0' Lakes building. Information: 651-905- 474R In the Community,With the Community, For the Community Disaster FROM PREVIOUS PAGE event of an outbreak. Emergency Manager Ken Southorn and Police Lt. Greg Johnson also gave an overview Eagan's plans in the event of a disaster. Southorn said it is vital for businesses to identify the core services they must offer as well as cross -train employees so they can step into different positions in the event of a disaster. "We're going to be operating with a skeleton force," said Southorn. "We'll reassign [employees] as they're qualified to continue services. You've got to keep up to date who those successors are." "Our whole plan is focused on the idea that we're not getting any help," said Johnson, adding that in the event of a flu pandemic, each business and government is going to have its own problems. Erik Perry, who takes care of disaster preparedness for Lockheed -Martin, had a main piece of advice for business going through disaster plans. "Get things done that you have con- trol over and that you can take care of yourself," said Perry. While businesses as big as Lockheed - Martin might be able to dedicate one person or a team of people to planning for disasters, Batulis said NDCC will soon have available a "down and dirty template" for small businesses to use, as they already have links to other models on their website. She said many of the tips in the template for smaller busi- nesses will be gleaned from NDCC's own preparations, as they only have four employees. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com. IBUSINESS COMMUNITY NOTES In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Class o 2007 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Memorial Day events set in county Following are some of the Memorial Day events scheduled in Dakota County. Apple Valley A Memorial Day ceremony in Apple Valley will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, May 28, at Veteran's Park and at Post 1776 Apple Valley American Legion, 14521 Granada Drive, Apple Valley. In the event of rain, the ceremonies will be inside the American Legion. The event is sponsored by the American Legion Post 1776 and will include marching units from the Legion and Legion Auxiliary, Boy and Girl Scouts, Civil Air Patrol as well as music by the Scott Highland Middle School band. The public is invited to attend and encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs for the 45-minute program and ceremony. Information: 952-454-3175. Burnsville As a tribute to all servicemen and women, Sweet Sioux Garden Club and Blue Star Moms are sponsoring the fourth annual Memorial Day Event in the Bi-Centennial Garden on the corner of Nicollet and 130th Street in • ville. Lakeville A Memorial Day observance is planned at the Lakeville Veterans Memorial (Aronson Park) 1 to 1:30 p.m. Monday, May 28. A free open house at Airlake Airport's Aircraft Resource Center Ramp will be noon to 5 p.m. The Wings of the North organization is sponsoring the event along with Air - Lake Machine & Welding and the Commemorative Air Force. One purpose of this event is to raise additional funds for the Lakeville Veterans Memorial. Phase one of the Lakeville Veterans Memorial was completed last year fol- lowed by a dedication ceremony on Veterans Day. The centerpiece of the Memorial is an authentic F-86 Sabre Jet donated by Bill Studer, a Lakeville resi- dent and retired airline captain. Now, to celebrate the first Memorial Day at the site, there will be a T-6 flyover at the Memorial at approximately 1 p.m. fol- lowed by a brief program honoring the men and women from all branches of the service who have given their lives in service to this country. There will be a second flyover at the close of the pro- gram, with the T-6 planes performing the missing man formation. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community 111 Businesses get lesson in disaster survival in Eagan NDC Chamber sponsors preparedness workshop put on by city of Eagan GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Business as usual may not always be true. A number of representatives from local companies recently took the oppor- tunity to learn what they could do to survive when business isn't as usual. The Northern Dakota County Chambers of Commerce (NDCC) spon- sored a seminar in disaster prepared- ness put on by the city of Eagan May 16. The class was one of a few that the Chambers will be sponsoring through- out the northern part of the county with the help of a grant provided by Dakota County for disaster planning. "We've been providing information [on disaster preparedness] for months now, but it really ramped up when the cities got these grants," said NDCC President Ruthe Batulis. At the seminar, Debra Ehret Miller of the county's health department gave suggestions for what businesses could do to stay functional in the event of a flood, tornado, terrorist attack or a flu pandemic. "A pandemic situation is unique because of the potential significant impact," said Ehret Miller, adding that a pandemic wouldn't just affect a specific area and there would be the possibility of it coming back in waves and last for a significant amount of time. She said the World Health Organization has estimat- ed 35 percent to 40 percent of the work- force could be forced to stay home in the DISASTER: TO NEXT PAGE CiOzens, officers receive honors Eagan Police Department holds annual Commendations Ceremony ohnson In WSPAPERS of a crisis, 7- year-o1d,Ain Pieper keeps a cool head. Last November, Pieper was playing football with his 79- year-old great-grandmother when she fell in the street and injured her hip, unable to move. Pieper ran to a neighbor's house and asked them to call 911, then immediately ran back to assist his great-grand- mother. He remained com- posed throughout the incident and reassured his great-grand- mother until police arrived. Pieper was among several Eagan citizens and police of- ficers honored on May 15 during the Eagan Police De- partment's annual Commen- dations Ceremony. Held during National Po- lice Week each year, the cer- Photo In Erin Johnson Eagan Police Chief Jim McDonald gives the medal of honor to the family of Lance Cpl. Daniel Olsen, an Eagan Marine who was killed while serving in Iraq, during the department's Commenda- tions Ceremony on May 15. emony awards certificates of commendation and merit to those who have gone above and beyond in the name of public safety. 51(410i "Aside from honoring the nation's fallen law enforce- ment officers, we at the Eagan Police Department take the See Honors, 15A 4dr, Sedan, 2 LT, 3.5L V6, $ 6Cyl, 4-speed A/T 71031A 00 DODGE VIPER 2dr RT/10 Convertible 8.0L 10 Cyl, Manual, 6-speed 13121 4dr, Sedan, SXT, $� 1925 2.7L, 6- 112ee1 4dr Quad Cab,131" WB, $ 4 WO, 12994 05 DODGE RAM 1500 SLT 06 LANCER ES 2dr. touri 04 2dr 3.8L 2,21 Sed 86-8622 .DodgeofBurnsv Cities join to solve flooding Lebanon Hills 4-1 watershed issues took years to work out bydelmann EWSPAPERS Af r abo t seven years of negoti and conflict, of- ficials with Dakota County, Rosemount, Eagan and Apple Valley have devised a cost - sharing plan to solve flooding within the Lebanon Hills wa- tershed. The plan, complicated be- cause cities and the county had to determine stormwater flow and flooding responsibil- ity across boundaries, divided up responsibilities and costs to jointly resolve the flooding problems. Under the proposal, Eagan See Flooding, 8A 04 CHRYSLER SEBRIN 410,74. 2dr convertible LXi. 2 7L V6 6CyIA-speed NT 13106 $13 9 04 FORD TAURUS 3.OL, 6-cyl, 4dr, $ 92 Sedan SE 1 A �j•�� Flooding/from lA wi j'�construct storm drain- age improvements, which will implement seven of the 22 im- provement projects described in the Lebanon Hills Storm - water Management Plan. The cities and county are all contributing various amounts toward the estimated $3.6 mil- lion cost; Apple Valley and Dakota County have agreed to complete additional improve- ment projects consistent with the Lebanon Hills plan. A major part of the Eagan project allows a new trunk stormwater outlet to be built from Marsh Lake to a new outlet connected to Eagan's storm sewer system. An improved outlet would also be constructed to ease stormwater impact at Mc- Donough Lake. Dakota County and Apple Valley have agreed to allow the city's drainage into Leba- non Hills Regional Park and the county plans to contribute about $82,500 toward its por- tion of the costs. In exchange, the city is exempting the coun- ty from future charges for draining water into the city's storm sewer system. By the end of this year, channel erosion will be re- stored to Jensen Lake, and an outlet in Camp Sacajawea will be built to divert storm - water running over County Road 38. And by the end of 2008, a lift station will be constructed at Wheaton Pond. Dakota County Board members on May 15 congrat- ulated County Parks Director Steve Sullivan for his work in bringing representatives from the local governments togeth- er to brainstorm a solution. Physical Development Di- rector Greg Konat credited Sullivan's level of persever- ance and ability to work with people for making the joint powers agreement proposal possible. Joint powers agreements are expected to be signed soon, and construction is planned to begin this fall. Laura Adelmann is at dceditor@frontiernet.net. Caring, culturally curi by John Gessner THISW EEK NEWSPAPERS An influential high school Spanish teacher and a year in Venezuela cemented Tim Leh- ner's career path. Now he's the one hoping to influence a generation of young people. Lehner, a Spanish teacher in Burnsville High School's world languages department, has been named Teacher of the Year in Burnsville -Eagan - Savage School District 191. His selection by peers in the Burnsville Education Asso- ciation makes him eligible for Education Minnesota's next Teacher of the Year honor. "I was surprised," admitted Lehner, 41. "But it was a nice surprise." Lehner came to Burnsville 14 years ago. He graduated from high school in Lomira, Wis. With a global curios- ity inspired by his high school Spanish teacher, Lehner spent the next year in Venezuela as an AFS student. "I was so open to new things — new cultures and people and attitudes," he said. "It was a very rude awakening coming from a town of 1,000 people to Caracas, which has, like, 10 million. It's kind of country mouse goes to visit city mouse. I was in awe of it. I met so many wonderful people and learned so much." After earning a bachelor's degree in Spanish and interna- /ue • Honors/from lA opportunity to really look at some of the good work that our officers do; and some of the work that's done by the citizens," said Eagan Police Chief Jim McDonald. Officers themselves nomi- nate candidates for awards to recognize good work by their peers and the efforts of citizens. A police committee determines who receives the awards. "These awards are mean- ingful because they're coming from the people that are actu- ally doing the work," McDon- ald said. Citizen honorees included Nicki Dreier, who was driving on Braddock Trail in Eagan last December when she saw a 2-year-old child lying on the front steps of a residence. The temperature at the time was 19 degrees, and the child was wearing only a pair of pajamas and no socks. Dreier immediately called police and then wrapped the child in a blanket in her vehicle. The child's mother was unaware that the toddler had gone outside. Dreier received a certificate of commendation for her actions, which likely saved the child's life. Resident Chaitanya Anand received a certificate of com- mendation for performing life-saving CPR on his neigh- bor, Donald Foster. Foster was outside shoveling snow in his driveway when he col- lapsed and stopped breathing. Anand immediately began performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and chest com- pressions. By the time para- medics arrived, Foster was breathing on his own. He is now out of the hospital and doing well. Holly Johnson, Ryan Mc- Cuen, and Lockheed Martin security officer Jordan Kirch received citizen's certificates of commendation for their roles in responding to a hit- and-run incident. A crash at Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob roads left one driver injured while the other driver fled the scene before officers arrived. McCuen and Johnson witnessed the crash and followed the fleeing driver, who drove into the Lockheed Martin parking lot and got out of his car. McCuen ap- proached the driver and told him to wait while police were notified. The driver refused and ran toward a wooded area near Yankee Doodle Road. The driver's abandoned ve- hicle had a business advertise- ment on the side, so McCuen called the business to find out who the driver was. McCuen and Johnson returned to the accident scene and gave the information to police. Security officer Kirch then began searching for the driver who fled the scene. He located the suspect and contacted po- lice, who took the driver into custody and charged him with fleeing the scene of an acci- dent and driving while intoxi- cated. Eagan Police Explor- ers Kevin Eldridge and Josh Grubb were honored for help- ing capture two suspects who were breaking into cars at Schulze Lake Beach. The Explorers, who were volunteering their time to pa- trol the park, located the sus- pects running in the woods. They provided responding officers with detailed descrip- tions of both suspects, result- ing in their apprehension. Police officers who were honored on May 15 included the Eagan Police Department's detective unit for its work on a case that proved to be one of the largest stolen property cases in Dakota County. The suspect stole more than $250,000 in property and, due to the efforts of the detective unit, was ultimately sentenced to five years in prison as a ca- reer criminal. Officer Lisa Fancher was recognized for compassion and persistence in helping a victim of domestic abuse. After the victim's boyfriend was arrested for domestic as- sault, Fancher spent a great deal of time with the victim, earned her trust, and obtained vital information to prosecute the boyfriend. She also helped the woman obtain a court or- der of protection and accom- panied her t( The victi healthy situ much better. Retired Schrader rt of merit fo service with Departmen Schrader the SWAT ed other of methods o tactics, and helped pile motorcycle developed program. I his Comm. personnel of the orgE Officer a certifia tion for hi his own li safety of ( In Api first on t mestic di male insic dar Events ianas at Your Library," starts June 4 and ends lug. 10. Both readers and pre -readers up to ige 12 are invited to join. Children record the (mount of time spent reading and earn small awards. Weekly drawings and free programs vailable throughout the summer. A calendar f all Dakota County library events is now vailable for pickup at the branches. 'eritage Library The Reading Group of the Dakota Coun- ' Heritage Library will meet on Wednesday, 'ay 30, at 7 p.m. in the library meeting room discuss "Balzac and the Little Chinese aamstress' by Dai Sijie. 'escort Library Bedtime Storytime for all ages on ednesday, May 23, 7 p.m. Children may .)ar their pajamas and bring a stuffed ani- al. Get Ready for Summer Movies for all es on Friday, May 25, 10:30 a.m. r more information or to register: rnhaven Library: (952) 891-0300 rmington Library: (651) 438-0250 laxie Library: (952) 891-7045 ritage Library: (952) 891-0360 ary: (952) 461-3460 ry: (952) 447-3375 (952) 707-1770 (651) 688-1500 ville (corner of County Road 42 and County Road 5 next to Cub Foods). For more infor- mation, call (952) 440- 3824, or visit petfinder. com (enter zip code 55372). Live It History Week- ends June 2 through Aug. 26 at Historic Murphy's Landing, Shakopee. Sat- urdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, noon-5 p.m. Live the pioneer life on in the village of Eagle Creek. awn trolley rides, costumed s-era demonstrations, crafts Kids Play area. Admission: nd up; S7 ages 3-11 and se- t Kitty Fund Rummage Sale mill Animal Rescue is June 1 Feed and Pet parking lot, Market. Hours are noon to ay, June 7; 10 a.m. to 5:30 e 8; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sat- onations of clean, saleable pted at Windmill Feed in y 21 through June 6. Wind - cue is a registered, nonprofit ion. All donations are tax- ptable donations include: clothes, books, yard care wnmowers, shovels, etc.). needed to help with nrir Groups Family The Burnsville South Chapter of the MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Sup- port) will meet Thursday, May 31, at 9:45 a.m. at the Trinity Evangelical Free Church located at the corner of County Roads 5 and 46. The Moms Club is a non -denomina- tional, nonprofit support group that is open to all mothers who stay at home with their children full or part time. We provide an opportunity to share ideas and discuss con- cerns with other parents. For kids, we offer fun and educational activities along with the chance to interact with other children. Chil- dren are welcome at all meetings. For more information, call Michelle at (952) 891-1949 or visit www.geocities.com/momsclubburns- ville. The Eagan West MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support), for all Eagan moms who reside west of Pilot Knob Road, meets the third Friday of every month. In- formation/location/time: www.eaganwest- momsclub.org or (952) 953-7699. The Eagan -East MOMS Club (Moms Of- fering Moms Support) meets the last Thurs- day of each month in Eagan. All moms and their children who reside east of Pilot Knob are welcome. For more information, visit www.eaganeastmomsclub.com or call (651) 365-1183. Moms Club of Lakeville -East invites all stay-at-home moms to check out our club. Moms Club is a nonprofit national organi- zation supporting part-time and full-time stay-at-home moms. The group maintains a monthly calendar of events for moms and kids alike. If you are looking to meet new friends for both you and your children, come visit. Call Shannon at (952) 953-2985 or e- mail us at Lakevillemomseast@hotmail.com for more information. Lakeville West Chapter of MOMS Club Intl (Moms Offering Moms Support) is a non -denominational, nonprofit support group for PT and FT stay-at-home moms. We have various activities throughout the month for moms and their children. Every month there is a full calendar of events and clubs and a mom's night out to choose from. We meet the last Wednesday of the month at Trinity Evangelical Free Church in Lakeville. Contact LoAnn Zwiefel for info at (952) 758- 8093. Children are welcome at all functions. Support Groups Overeaters Anonymous meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at Saints Martha & Mary Church, 4180 Lexington Ave. S., Eagan. Overeaters Anonymous is a fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience, strength and hope, are recovering from compulsive eating. We welcome everyone who wants to stop eating compulsively. There are no dues' or fees. Contact: Shelly (952) 431-2074 or visit www.overeaters.org for information. Business Groups The Suburban Home -based Business As- sociation will meet Monday, May 21, at 6 p.m. at Perkin's Restaurant in Savage. If you (?( -007 In the Co COMMUNITY NOTES Explorers win awards The Eagan Police Explorer Post par- ticipated in the 32nd Annual Minnesota Law Enforcement Exploring Conference this spring at Breezy Point Resort. The Eagan Post won six awards, including team awards for first place in team aggregate handgun score and third place in crime prevention. Explorers who won individual awards were Kevin Eldride, fifth place in individual timed fire; Dan Crow, first place in individual rapid fire; Luke Scanlon, second place in individual total aggregate handgun score; and Amy Therkelsen, fifth place in individual total aggregate handgun score. • nmunity those arrested are between 40 and 80. Most are married, many have children. Dr. Bean Robinson, a licensed psy- chologist and licensed marriage and family therapist with the Program in Human Sexuality at the University of Minnesota Medical School, said married men who engage in anonymous, secret homosexual behavior put an enormous strain on their family life. "Even if you're careful and you don't get a disease, you're leading another life," she said. "The man who's doing it, if he really is gay and not wanting to accept that fact, yet compulsively seeking out sex this way, he has a lot of guilt about it. That probably plays itself out in the mar- riage in him being depressed and with- drawn. That's a big part of himself that he's not sharing with his partner." ',Mention this ad Events FROM PREVIOUS PAGE The Shakespeare Festival is sched- uled 6:30 p.m. June 15 and 16. "The Tempest" will be presented Friday evening and "As You Like It" will be fea- tured Saturday. Dads can celebrate Father's Day with their families with a performance by the Minnesota Sinforia 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 17. The Generation Gap jazz band will perform 7 p.m., Sunday, June 24. A $2 donation is recommended for each performance. The Art Park is on Diffley Road, between Pilot Knob Road and Lexington Avenue. Information: wwwcaponiartpark.org or 651-454-9412. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at wivw.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) support services; rns, world language Ziemke, work pro - High School: , art; Aaron Riippa, and marketing; ey, dance; Hanna lish/language arts; e, family and con- ces; Kirk Landin, 1 music; Caitlin ematics; Jacob sical education, safety education; eas, guiance; e viler, technology education; Austin Lynch, mathematics; Laura Benson, instrumental music; Robert Wormley, vocal music; Tyler Kraska, physical educa- tion and health; Matthew Amdahl, science; Elizabeth (Liz) Sparks, social studies; Marissa Peterson, work experience; Jennifer Stanull, world lan- guages, and Margaret Scipioni, special education. (You are invited to comment about this column on our web- nsun.com and/or e aug nessy, suncu rrentsouth@acn papers.com 952-392-7667 Bonnie Boberg, Managing Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-882-2461 Rachel Stone, Account Executive rstone@acnpapers.com 952-392-6852 Pam Miller, Classified Manager pmiller©acnpapers.com 952-392-6862 Dan Miller, Advertising Director dmillerCcacnpapers.com It -Thursday, June 7, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Summer activities come to life in June There's no shortage of things to do in Eagan this month GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS In June, Eagan residents will have the chance to take in every type of enter- tainment under the sun, or under the clouds if the weather doesn't cooperate. Plays, music, movies and art exhibi- tions will populate Eagan's parks in the coming weeks. The city's Flag Day cele- bration will also be back for the second year and the farmers market will have a new look and a new name. The city's annual art festival will also be back for the 13th time and the Summer Performance Series will return to the Theater in the Woods in the Caponi Art Park. Market Fest Eagan Market Fest, which begins Wednesday, June 20, is a new series that combines the city's summer concert series and farmers market into one big event each Wednesday evening through Aug. 29. "We're super excited," said Kerry Phillips, who's coordinating the event. "We have some really well-known bands playing " "They've really broadened the event and the scope of the entertainers brought in," said the eity's Communications Director Tom Garrison. Along with the farmers market, local and regional performers will provide music in the Rotary Bandshell on the community center's festival grounds. Some of the better-known performers include Dazy Head Mazy, who will help kick off the event, Tim Mahoney and Kurt Jorgenson. Market Fest will also feature an artisans market, as well as free art activities provided by the Eagan Art House. Concessions will also be pro- vided by Green Mill restaurant. There will also be family -friendly movies on the last Wednesday of each month. The event will go on each week rain or shine. The community center is at 1501 Central Parkway. For a full event schedule, visit wwwcityofeagan.com. Information: 651-675-5550. Flag Day celebration Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the Eagan Flag Day Celebration will be back again noon-3 p.m. Thursday, June 14. "It was a really well -attended event," said Joanna Foote, Eagan's communica- tions coordinator. "We heard from many of the veterans that Flag Day seems to be a forgotten holiday." This year's event will focus on the flag itself, with a patriotic-themed per- formance by the Eagan Puppet Wagon, presentations on flag etiquette, a presen- tation by Eagan Police Officer Bill White on the flags used back to the Revolutionary War and a lesson on how to properly dispose of a flag. Attendees are encouraged to bring flags that need to be disposed. The event will be on the community center grounds and will be moved inside in the event of inclement weather. Information: 651-675-5038. Eagan Art Fest The Eagan Community Center grounds will be dedicated to the arts Saturday and Sunday, June 23 and 24. Among the events will be a series of mini -workshops for all ages that will include cartooning, watercolor, clay, pas- tels, fiber, beads and sketching. There will also be a number of arts and enter- tainment performances. The Minnesota Kite Society will be there 1-4 p.m. Sunday for a children's kite building activity. There will also be more than 100 stands with items to be purchased from local vendors. Complementing the Art Fest, the Bill Evans New Orleans Jazz Event is sched- uled for Sunday, June 24. The event costs $25 and there will be snacks and bever- ages along with the music. The Art Fest will be operating 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Information: 651-296-ARTS for the Art Fest and 651-675-5500 for the Jazz Event. Theater in the Woods There will be a number of perform- ances in the outdoor stage at the Caponi Art Park throughout the summer. EVENTS: TO NEXT PAGE In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com -Thursday, June 7, 2007 - If DSL is better, then w does Qwest charge yo for not liking it? Think about it. 1. Comcast will not charge you an early termination - Qwest's DSL "Price for Life" contract means you can't change anything abo your service or cancel without paying an early termination fee (up to $200). 2. Comcast will not trap you with contracts - you're free to keep Comcast services as long as you want. 3. Comcast delivers faster speed - up to 8 Mbps if you want it. How fast would Qwest be at your home? Who k In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Eagan Police Department unveils interactive crime map GRANT BOELTEIV• SUN NEWSPAPERS Now Eagan.sidents can take a look at crime activity in their neighborhoods at the same time they are checking their e-mail. The Eagan Police Department has made a Police Incident Mapping Application (PIMA) available on the city's website, wwwcityofeagan.com. "We realize that our citizens get a lot of their information online," said Police Chief Jim McDonald. "The nice part about this is that citizens can look to see what's going on in their neighborhood." The PIMA application gives a geo- graphic view of crime incidents within the city in the past 90 days. The crimes that are mapped on the application are burglaries, robberies, arsons, thefts and vehicle thefts, or as McDonald called them, part one crimes or "things that we think could affect the neighborhood." "Burglaries and thefts are probably our biggest part one crimes," he said. McDonald said he hopes that the city's residents will make use of the applica- tion, so they know if they should look for anything going on in the neighborhood and therefore be properly prepared. The application allows residents to choose which type of crime they want to see in the map. It is also possible to zoom in on certain areas to get a more focused view of the crime. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) These pages are provided as a forum to debate ideas of interest and importance in our communities. Signed letters should be no longer than 250 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers and address for verification purposes. Submitted letters and columns become the property of Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and publish them in any format, including online. IT US ONLINE AT WWW.MNSUN.COM • © 2007 SUN NEWSPAPERS • PAGE 6A zed in District 196 , technology edu- Imsdahl, instru- ; Kale Johnson, ucation; Scott studies; Xiaoying atics; Huy Nguyen, nguage learner; , world language; hroeder, science; , family and con - Michael Ewen, technology; Jacob Garin, vocal music; Tony Xayavong, work program, and Pallavi Kalman, world language. Eagan High School: Naomi Chen, art; Brandon Quam, busi- ness education; Cornelia (Nina) Reynolds, English/language arts; Erin Sullivan, family and consumer sciences; Hannah EAGAN SUNFICURRENT In the Community; With the Community, For the Community Jeff Coolman, Group Publisher — VP jcoolman@acnpapers.com 952-392-6807 Peggy Bakken, Executive Editor suneditor@acnpapers.com 952-392-6822 Grant Boelter, Community Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-882-2463 ion to Thisweek n www.thisweek-online.com Should you spare a dime? The presence of panhandlers in Eagan leaves many wondering: Are they a reflection of homelessness in our community or are they simply preying on the kindness of others? by Erin,Jobnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS It is a sight that clearly makes many residents uncomfortable: panhandlers holding signs ask- ing for money. Panhandlers began showing up in Eagan this past winter, and the Eagan Police Depart- ment began getting phone calls from citizens around the same time. Some callers were concerned that they were standing out in the cold, but more were upset about the image the panhan- dlers created, saying they don't want "riff-raff" in Eagan, said Sgt. Linda Myhre. "The overwhelming majority of (complaints) are 'We don't Photo by Erin Johnson Panhandlers holding signs asking for money began showing up in Eagan this past winter, police said. Although homelessness is an issue in Dakota County, advocates say the panhandlers aren't necessarily representative of the problem. want them here,' " she said. "Yet people are giving money to them." The panhandlers position themselves at the top of on - ramps at busy intersections along I-35E such as Yankee Doodle and Cliff roads, holding signs indicating they are home- less and need money. Legally, they have every right to do so, Myhre said. "The Supreme Court says they have a right to be out there. It's protected speech," she said. "The only time they don't have a right to be out there is if they violate a law" Stepping into the street and impeding traffic would be con- sidered a violation, she said. But as long as they stay on the side- walk, there's little police can do. "We're going to watch and make sure they obey all the laws, and try not to contribute to the problem," she said. Officers have spoken with a number of the panhandlers, she said, and have learned that most, if not all, are coming in for the day from St. Paul. See Panhandlers, 6A 2A June 2, 2007 THISWEEK MAXIMIZE YOUR MILES 07 Caravan SXT Equipped Not Stripped Air Dual Zone Temp Control, ,. Middle Row Captain Chairs, Power (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), CD Player, Sunscreen Glass MSRP $23,415 Discount -$1,916 Rebate -$3,000 .Z Lt Bonus -$500 r2'0d down, plus us payment li1• payment 8gc. ='299 17,999 Cali For An Appointment 35W South and Cliff Road Best Value Package STOWZro , Power Doors, Rear Heat/ Air, Dual Zone Temp, CD Player, Roof Rack, Middle Row Captain Chairs, ABS Brakes, Power (Seats, Windows, Locks, Mirrors) SRP $28,155 Discount -$2,765 Rebate -$4,000 Bonus -$500 890 ''00 down, plus u1° payment & Iic c='299 �o, WITH PUR One Coupon Per I No Appointmen Lube, Oil & Filter Change INCLUDES: Engine oil replocement ur Mopar o0 filter, chassis lubrication, t Mdilioed charges for more thon 5 pork col, Diesels, St Good for Dodge, cJey 4 Jeep 8 Eagle velidrs. hos SERVICE HOURS: M/th T/Th 7am-8pm • Sa 07 Gran ABTheT Hea Con 6- Wi MS Dis Re B. Panhandlers/from IA "'they're all taking the bus out here, and/or driv- ing. There's a couple of them that have cars," she said. "A couple of them, in fact, have houses in St. Paul. When we've talked to them, they've admitted they have houses." Police showed their pic- tures to homeless advocates in St. Paul and learned that some of them are indeed homeless and live underneath a bridge in St. Paul. • Several told officers they come to Eagan because peo- ple here are more generous. Instead of the single dollar bills they get in St. Paul, pan- handlers in Eagan can often get $5 or $10 at a time. They said they can make about $25 to $50 a day. "One said he just comes out here and works until he gets a certain amount of money, and he goes back to St. Paul and buys a steak and beer and then parties it up for the night, and then comes back the next day and does it again," Myhre said. Police have conducted background checks on many of the ' panhandlers, and some have "pretty colorful pasts," she said. For instance, several have alcohol -related offenses on their record. "One is a predatory of- fender," she • said. "I think people generally think they're harmless, and we haven't had any major issues with them,. but just the quality of life things — I know that they've been urinating in the parking area (of the Eagan transit station)." One woman also told po- lice she found a male pan- handler setting up camp after hours in the ladies bathroom at the transit station. Advocates from Dakota County have approached the panhandlers in Eagan and offered them services, which the panhandlers have turned down. "We went to a meeting at the Dorothy Day Center (in St. Paul) to see what they do, and the advocates there said the same thing: They've offered them services and they've turned them down. They don't want the services, this is what they want to do," Myhre said. *A reflection of homelessness? Make no mistake, home- lessness is an issue in Dakota County, said Maribeth Lun- deen, housing and resource development manager for Dakota County Social Ser- vices. Dakota County sees about 80 to 100 new families be- come . homeless each year. Since 2000, the county has seen a 57 percent increase in poverty, and the use of food shelves increased 60 percent in that same time period. But advocates agree that the panhandlers standing on highway ramps are not nec- essarily indicative of that. Homelessness in the sub- urbs tends to be a little more hidden, Lundeen said. "We're not used to seeing it, but that doesn't mean it's not there," she said. "There are individuals and families in our county that are home- less." People in the suburbs who are homeless tend to "couch hop" from relative to relative or friend to friend, she said. But there are programs in place to,help those struggling with homelessness in Dakota County, and the county has outreach workers that can of- fer services to those people, she said. "There is a homelessness problem and there are servic- es in Dakota County to ad- dress that," she said. "People should know that services have been offered (to the panhandlers)." - The Community Action Council (CAC) also works with people who are techni- cally homeless, living with multiple families in dne house or couch hopping. "It's not necessarily living on the streets or in cars," said Chris Pommerenke, senior director of seryices for the CAC. "It's people who don't have a stable living situa- tion." To give or not to give Advocates agree that even if the panhandlers are home- less, giving them money is nothing more than a band - aid. "Any little bit they get just encourages them to come back the next day," Pomme- renke said. It would be more ben- eficial for the panhandler if people donated money to an organization that helps the homeless rather than give money to the panhandler directly, she said. The on13 thing that will really help is if they can get services, train- ing and jobs. "A dollar or a cup of cof- fee isn't going to support that person long term," she said. "Organizations like the CAC get to the real root of what . brought that person to that place. Lundeen agreed. "Rather than stopping and giving out money in those high -traffic areas, give money to charity and let the service "system and the police department deal with pan- handlers," she said. For more information on the CAC, visit www.commu- nityactioncouncil.org. Infor- mation on Dakota County Social Services can be found at www.www.co.dakota. mn.us. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc. com. Schwab/from IA has come to move on, he said. "We have a very successful, healthy educational community, and I am at a point where I want to look at taking on some new and different challenges in my life," he said. Schwab is the longest -serving principal in the school's history. He's faced many challenges, in- cluding three major remodeling projects and transitioning the school from a K-6 with 600 stu- dents to K-4 with 350 students. "And it's always a challenge to continue to emphasize the im- portance of growth and change, and looking at how we can do things differently that will help children be more successful," he said. "We should never become complacent with the achieve- ment level of our students" Schwab has also enjoyed the school's many successes. During his time as principal, Pilot Knob received a School of Excellence award from the Minnesota El- ementary School Principals As- sociation, an Educational Excel- lence Award from Sen. Mark Dayton, and Schwab himself re- ceived the Minnesota National Distinguished Principal Award in 2001. He will be missed by "many, many" people, said kindergarten teacher Ann Siegel. "He loves the kid& It's all about the kids with Byron," she said. "He is very much in tune with their emotional and educa- tional needs He didn't hesitate to give them a hug or sit down and eat lunch with them." Siegel, who has taught in the district for 32 years, has spent the past 14 working with Schwab. "I've worked for about six different principals, and he is the best that I've worked for," she said. "I think he's worked really hard to make this a welcoming community. And I don't think Pilot Knob had that reputation before he came." The first half of Schwab's career was spent teaching music at junior high and high schools, the elementary level, in how we train our children and educate them to be prepared for the next level they're going to," he said. "That's why I am where I am." He said he's proud to have been part'of a school that stu- dents still want to visit after they've left. "It always• amazes me to see the kids come back to Pilot Knob school, and how positive they are, and how enthusiastic they are to come back and visit," he said. "So you know that we've created a positive environment that's made a positive impact." One of the things that initial- ly drew Schwab to Pilot Knob was the diversity of .its families, which has made Pilot Knob a wonderful environment to work in, he said. "We have families from all over the world, of different na- tionalities and ethnic and reli- gious backgrounds," he said. "That has been one of the more rewarding experiences over the past 14 years" Schwab said that he plans to continue to work in training and instruction with the Minnesota Principals Leadership Academy, and he would like to work with teacher .training programs to help students prepare to be the best teachers they can be. He and his wife also plan to do some traveling, and there are some home improvement proj- ects that have been beckoning for about 14 years, he said. "It will be nice to not have to try to do everything I want to do at home just on the weekend," he said. "If I start a project, I want to make sure I have time to finish it, and hopefully now I'll have more time." Schwab said that one of the most important things he's learned as principal is to find the humor in situations. "It's really important to maintain a healthy sense of hu- mor, and not always take your- self or every issue so seriously that you can't bounce back and learn something positive from EAGAN E Park NEW LOCATION ''°' Eagan Eye Clinic 1/2 block southwest (next to the Drivers License Renewal Office.) Our NEW address is 3930 Cedar Grove Parkway Eagan, MN 55122 651-454-5661 www.eaganeye.com YeLiR 952-882-99 Hwy 13 & Cliff Rd • Burn (Next to Caribou Coffee) ji,' Well-behaved, leashed pet We Are e, PIMA/from 1A Only three other cities in Minnesota have PIMA Web, Rogers said: Golden Val- ley, . Minnetonka, and Maple Grove. The system isn't immediate — up to seven days can elapse between the time an incident is reported and when it shows up on the map. But it allows users to see what's going on in their neighborhood at any time of day or night. "It's basically a tool that helps the public and our de- partment at the same time," Rogers said. "It decreases the number of phone calls we get for criine reports and allows citizens 24/7 access to crime data." A brochure on how to u the tool is available at the en- trance to the Police Depart- ment. So far the department has received very positive re- sponses from residents, Rogers said. "It's all about keeping the community more informed about, what's happening," he said. "Every city I know that has this, the residents love it. It's a great tool." PIMA Web can be found at www.cityofeagan.com. Click on "Safety and Regulations," and then "Crime Report Maps" to access the tool. Email Erin Johnson at eaga thisweek@ecm-inc.com. ends time with her children, from left to right, Samantha, Bradley gton home. While waiting for a diagnosis and during her treatment h on her mind. Finding local crime on the Web New feature on police web site lets residents see what crimes happened where in Eagan by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Finding out about crime in your hometown just became a whole lot easier thanks to a new tool on the police depart- ment's Web site. The Eagan Police Depart- ment recently Launched a new Internet mapping tool called PIMA Web, or Police Incident Mapping Application, that pinpoints where in the city various crimes have occurred. The tool allows the public to access police report data on crimes such as burglaries, rob- beries, arson and thefts — in- cluding vehicle thefts that have occurred in Eagan. "Basically, it's a way of communicating better with the residents of Eagan," said John Rogers, a crime analyst with the Eagan Police Depart- ment. "The Eagan Police De- partment is kind of proactive about getting information out to the community." Using the tool, residents can obtain information as specific as the block where certain crimes have occurred in the last 90 days. Users can also type in a specific address and find out if any crimes have occurred there within the past three months. The map, which is updated every week, pinpoints loca- tions and gives a brief descrip- tion of the type of crime that occurred there, the date and time it occurred, and the case number. The tool gives users the op- tion to choose different views of the map, including street, aerial, and bird's-eye view. It also offers 2-D and 3-D view- ing options. See PIMA, 19A Submitted graphic The new crime mapping tool on the Eagan Police Department's Web site pinpoints for the public where crimes have occured in the city over the last 90 days. (e),f_A_ 4,- 9- i 04 CHRYSLER SEBRING 2dr convertible LXI, 2.7E V6, 6Cy1,4-speed A/T 13106 S14 04 FORD TAURUS 4dr, Sedan, 2 LT, 375E V6, 121� 6Cyl, 4-speed A/T 71031R 06 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER 4dr, 4WD, SLT Plus, /� 4.7L, 8-cyl, SUV 13101 5143925 -888-786-8622 L. 4dr, Wagon, SXT, $ 3.5L, 6-cyl 13041 04 DODGE INTREPID 4dr, Sedan, ES, 3.5L, $ 6-cyl 13105 06 LANCER ES 2dr. cr tourin, www.DodgeofBurnsv Expansion/from iA work related to the expansion. The county's Physical Develop- ment Department had been re- searching traffic issues and tax implications of the expansion, said Dakota County Commis- sioner Tom Egan. "We've basically been told to suspend all that," he said. According to a statement from the company, Thomson West will move ahead with the 80,000-square-foot data cen- ter in Eagan due to immediate business needs. The company said that the Eagan campus continues to be one of the most important Thomson business centers in the country, and it expects to have a sustained presence in Eagan. However, the overall cam- pus expansion will "need to be reviewed and reevaluated in the coming months," according to the statement. That sentiment was echoed in an e-mail sent to the county by Thomas Walrath, director of facilities services for Thom- son West, who stated that the company was going to "reeval- uate its options" over the next several months. "This wasn't supposed to be the way this ended," Walrath wrote. • The data center is only ex- pected to create about 10 new jobs, according to Thomson West. The bulk of the new jobs would come with the office building, which would house new technology, operations, finance and customer service positions. Eagan City Administrator Tom Hedges said the city re- mains hopeful that the com- pany will continue its plans to expand the Eagan campus. "Eagan has a great relation- ship with Thomson West and looks forward to that contin- ued relationship," he said. "We hope they will decide to expand here, whether it's a modified plan or whatever they decide." The 264-acre Eagan cam- pus, which was purchased in the 1970s, already has 1.2 million square feet of manu- facturing space, 1.2 million square feet of office space, and 200,000 square feet of data center space. It is the city's largest employ- er, with 6,800 employees, and is the headquarters of Thomson West and the Thomson North American Legal business unit. Thompson West is a giant in legal publishing and oper- ates the leading online legal research service Westlaw. It is also the largest, software devel- oper in Minnesota. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc com. Re ii n `Confronting the Controversies' study What are some of the most controversial issues of our time? What makes them difficult to talk about? Can the church help us to understand the different views people have about these controversial issues and the role faith plays in shaping our opin- ions and beliefs? These questions and more will be explored at River Hills United Methodist Church from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday eve- nings. The public is invited to join this study called "Con- fronting the Controversies: Biblical Perspectives on Tough Issues." Come to one or all ses- sions. Topics include creation- ism and evolution, euthanasia, p.m. Recipients are asked to bring their own boxes, laundry baskets or other large contain- ers for carrying the food they receive. There are no qualifications of income, church membership or city residency. The distribu- tion is for everyone who gets hungry. The program was initiated by Ruby's Pantry, a community outreach program from North Branch, and Second Harvest Heartland of Maplewood. This is the first food distribution for the South Metro Vineyard Church but it will be ongoing on a monthly basis. For more information, call (952) 892-1000. Phone registra- tion is not available. Helping military the Apostles is located at 701 E. 130th St., Burnsville, between Nicollet Avenue and County Road 11. For more informa- tion, call Robert Jeambey at (952)432-6241. Single parent forum Faith Covenant Church in Burnsville is hosting a single parent forum from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, June 13 and 27, July 11, 18, and 25. Faith's Single Parent Forum is a five -week discussion group for single parents, equipping and encouraging them in vari- ous aspects of family life. This forum is team -taught by several knowledgeable and experienced speakers. The group meets in Room 130 at Faith Covenant Church, nu- Burns- by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The 2,000 new jobs that were expected to come to Eagan as part of Thomson West's expansion could now be in jeopardy as a result of the vetoed tax bill. Gov. Tim Pawlenty, himself an Eagan resident and former City Council member, vetoed a tax bill that included tax breaks for the planned $100 million expansion of Thom- son West's Eagan campus. Is Thomson West expansion in jeopardy? Tax bill vetoed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty included tax breaks for Thomson West's $100 million expansion, which is expected to bring 2,000 jobs to Eagan building portion of the project �J from the city. Eagan was look- ing to create a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district for the expansion, which would have required approval from the Legislature. That item was pulled from the City Coun- cil's agenda last week after Thomson asked that the city "discontinue further consider- ation" of the matter. The company also asked Dakota County to stop its See Expansion, 9A The expansion, planned as 425,000 square feet of addi- tional office space and 80,000 square feet of additional data center space, was expected to bring about 2,000 new jobs to Eagan by 2012. The jobs were expected to pay an average sal- ary of $70,000. The tax bill included $9 million in sales tax exemptions on construction materials and supplies for the expansion. The tax breaks were con- troversial, but local legislators defended them as necessary to stay competitive with other states that also lobbied for the expansion. "I'm very disappointed in the governor for vetoing it," said Eagan Sen. Jim. Carlson. Now that the tax breaks have been vetoed, many are wondering whether Thomson West will look to other sites around the country for its ex- pansion. The company has pulled its application for the office /0 7 M,1:-J �rJ� Flag Day event spotlights old Glory Eagan's second annual celebration featuresflag history, etiquette, displays by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan's second annual Flag Day celebration will pay hom- age to the Stars and Stripes by focusing on the flag itself. The event will be held Thursday, June 14 from noon until 3 p.m. at the Rotary Band Shell in Eagan's Central Park and in the Lone Oak Room at the Eagan Community Cen- ter. Participants will get to watch special performances, eat ice cream, view flag dis- plays, and learn the finer points of properly handling the American flag. This is the second year Ea- gan has held the event, which is organized by the Eagan His- torical Society and Eagan Se- niors. Last year's event focused on the World War II era and was very well received, said Joanna Foote, communica- tions coordinator for the city of Eagan. "We heard especially from veterans who were glad we were bringing attention to the holiday, because a lot of peo- ple forget about it," she said. "We know for the veterans it's really important to preserve the meaning of the flag and to pass that on." The event will kick off with a patriotic performance by the Puppet Wagon at noon, fol- lowed by the Prime Time Play- ers, a group from St. Paul that will perform music and re-en- act famous radio bits from Fibber McGee and Molly and Abbott and Costello. At 1 p.m., Eagan Police Of- ficer Bill White will hold a pre- sentation on flag etiquette and the proper ways to display the flag. He will also discuss the history of the flag and display examples of the American flag through the ages, from before the revolution to the present, at 2 p.m. An ice cream social will be held at 1:30 p.m., along with book displays related to the flag and readings presented by the Wescott Library. • At 2:30 p.m., there will be a ceremony to dispose of un- serviceable flags by burning them, which is the only proper method of disposal. People are encouraged to bring their old or worn flags and partici- pate in the ceremony. Throughout the event, there will be flag -related col- oring and craft projects for children. The Blue Star Mothers of America will be on hand dur- ing the celebration, as will the Eagan American Legion Post 549, which supplies the flags for the Eagan Community Center. The event is free and de- signed for families with chil- dren of all ages, Scout troops and community organizations, veterans, and anyone interest- ed in learning more about the American flag. For more information, visit www.cityofeagan.com or call the Eagan Historical Society at (651) 675-5038. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Eminent domain topic for Eagan public hearing Talks continue as Cedar said City Administrator Tom Hedges. In other council news: "We've done very well without eminent The council removed an item to pro- Grove de lin nears domain so far and we hope that continues." pose a tax increment finance district for Hedges said eminent domain pro- a proposed Thomson West expansion, GRANT BOELTER SUN NEWSPAPERS ceedings could take up to a year from the because the state Legislature needed to public hearing process to be resolved. pass a law to allow it during the session The deadlineuse a powerful rede- For now, he said the city would continue that recently ended. Gov. Tim Pawlenty velopment tool is approaching and to pursue "good faith" purchase agree- vetoed the measure, which was included Eagan city officials are hopeful that it ments for 17 other properties in the dis- in the omnibus tax bill. "[Thomson West] passes without much fanfare. trict. Right now, the city owns more than is putting the proposed expansion and At its June 5 meeting, the Eagan City 75 percent of the properties in the dis- the proposed 2,000 jobs on hold while Council called fora July 17 public hearing trict and Cedarvale Lanes and Jensen's they go back and re-evaluate whether or to discuss the use of eminent domain for Supper Club will remain standing in the not those plans still work in the absence specific properties in the Cedar Grove area when redevelopment occurs. of that legislation," said Mayor Mike Redevelopment District. If the city plans "Who knows? Maybe we'll acquire Maguire. "We hope that they can get that to use eminent domain, it must do so by them all and it won't get to that point [of resolved and we will work with them July 2008. The deadline is five years after using eminent domain]," said Hedges. when they do. We look forward to it." the certification of the redevelopment "We've had really good success in negoti- district, as part of a change to state law ating with property owners to date. We're (You are invited to comment about this during the 2006 legislative session. going to give it every effort that we can." story on our website at www.mnsun.com "The whole purpose of the public hear- The city is also in the process of choos- and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- ing is to satisfy a statutory requirement," ing a master devQloper for the project. currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) Zc low Windows ""�., ndows Steel Siding, Soffit & Dint crjr,=, E Entry boors e,Roots bwnhomes Condos Experienced Crew Up & Magnetic Sweep ER YOUR NG COSTS. chinese empress THIS WEEHS FEATURES: Spicy Sesame Peanut Noodle With Chicken Mandarin Chopped Salad for savings. 6A, June 16, 2007 THISWEEK Lawsuit/from 1A the MAC promised to in- sulate homes in the 60 to 64 decibel range at no cost to homeowners. The cities said they sup- ported an expansion of the airport at its current location based on that commitment. The proposed settlement is based on the 2007 map of noise contours, and eligible homes must be located with- in the 60 to 64 decibel noise contour. In its settlement proposal, the MAC establishes eligi- bility using a "parcel inter- cept" method as opposed to a "block rounding" method. Block rounding would mean that if any home on a block is eligible for insulation, then all of the homes on that block would be eligible. The parcel intercept meth- od requires that a home is physically located within the contour, not just on the same block. That means that in some cases, if there are two homes right next to each oth- er, only one of them might be eligible. That method cuts the num- ber of homes in Eagan that are eligible for noise insula- tion from 492 to 261. "Realistically, you're neigh- bor's going to get it, but you're not going to get it," Thorkild- son said. "I think that's going to be a hard pill for a lot of people to swallow." Thorkildson chose to opt out of the class action law- suit. He believes the lawsuit brought by the cities has a better chance of bringing noise relief. "My personal opinion is, I think most people in Eagan will probably get very little out of this," he said. "Nobody's going to get full insulation out of this thing." Even if he had joined the lawsuit, the settlement pro- posal would have left him in- eligible for relief because Ws based on the 2007 noise con- tour map, he said. His house was included on the 2005 contour map, but it's not on the 2007 map. "The contours are shrink- ing," he said. He's hoping the cities can strike a deal that would in- clude future contours so af- fected residents aren't locked in to the current map, he said. A judge has asked the cities to come up with a settlement proposal for their lawsuit within the next five weeks. The proposed class ac- tion settlement, meanwhile, is in the court's hands await- s -4 ing approval. If it's approved, members of the class action lawsuit will have 30 to 60 days to ask questions and evaluate the terms of the settlement before deciding whether to participate or opt out. • If residents opt out, they can pursue their own claim against the MAC. A judge will have final approval of the settlement, which will be based in part on the community's reaction to it, according to resident rep- resentatives. If the community rejects the settlement, it will likely not be approved, they said. MAC Chairman Jack Lanners said he believes the settlement is a fair solution to an issue the MAC and its neighbors have long sought to solve. "The proposed agreement builds on the Metropoli- tan Airports Commission's standing as a world leader in airport noise mitigation," he said. The settlement would bring the MAC's total capital expenditures on noise mitiga- tion over the past 15 years to more than $400 million, and bring the total number of homes receiving noise mitiga- tion to more than 12,000, he said. "I know of no other air- port in the country that has provided that level of per cap- ita noise mitigation," he said. But to Thorkildson, the terms of the settlement pro- posaI are too little, too late. His house sits between the arrival paths of two runways, which means there are often times when two planes are fly- ing over his house at the same time. He said that the noise level has improved since the new runway opened because there are fewer flights going over his house. • "But you know how bad it was three years ago, and you know in your mind it can always go back to that," he said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Birthday/from 1A "I like cats a lot because I have two of them, and I've seen how helpless those cats and dogs are . there, and I thought I'd like to help them out," he said. Daniel asked for items from MVHS's wish list, which includes cat litter, cat and kitten food, dog food and treats, rawhides, and toys. His guests delivered. When he saw his friends lugging in bags of pet food to his party, Daniel said, "I thought that was pretty nice." Lynae Gieseke, executive. director of MVHS, said the shelter is always grateful for much -needed donations. "That was really sweet of Daniel," she said. "We're very appreciative, especially when children are asking for presents for the animals and not themselves." Although Daniel chose the charity, the idea to solicit donations instead of pres- collect more stuff, Thomas said she had a more impor- tant reason for suggesting the alternative gift idea. "I wanted Daniel to un- derstand the importance of thinking about those kinds of things, and recognizing that he's been very fortu- nate and should think about other people who aren't as fortunate," she said. "And animals, in this case." Admittedly, some of Daniel's friends thought he got "gypped," he said; but Thomas said others really enjoyed picking out gifts for the animals. "We got a lot of good re- sponses from the parents," Thomas said. "Everyone that came that I talked to said, 'What a great idea!' One woman told me she had just had a garage sale and got rid of so many toys that the kids never played with. And she said just the thought of hav- ing another pile of stuff like that come into the house, it would just be a relief not to ished with the pizza and cake, they could go play," Thomas said. "They didn't have to make them sit in a room while we opened 20 gifts. So I think they were jtist as happy." "We had three games of laser tag," Daniel added. And he said it felt "very good" when he and his mom dropped off the donations at MVHS. Daniel got a warm recep- tion from MVHS staff, in- cluding a gift bag, which was especially appreciated by Thomas. "They were great," she said. "I wanted it to be a grat- ifying experience that will encourage further thoughts of others." Daniel said he might do the same thing again for his next birthday, and he would definitely recommend it to of th Cats/from 1A "Thousands of cats are having litters this spring and many people are bringing these kittens to MVHS," said Executive Director Lynae Gieseke. "We also have plenty of adult cats, and we want to help all of these beautiful ani- mals find loving homes." June is National Adopt - A -Cat Month, and MVHS is offering several specials on cats. Because kittens are usu- ally easier to place in homes, the incentives focus on the shelter's adult cats. "Everybody wants kittens. Kittens practically fly out the door," Gieseke said. "Some- times adult cats and dogs lan- guish here." Throughout the month of June, MVHS is offering re- duced adoption fees on adult cats, and additional discounts THISWEEK June 16, 2007 4 AA just $1. Microchips, which typically cost about $35, are about the size of a grain of rice and are implanted just beneath the cat's skin. "If an animal is micro - chipped and gets lost, the odds that the animal will be reunited with its owner im- prove astronomically," Gie- seke said. Last year, the shelter had received 2,216 surrendered cats and 462 surrendered kit- tens. This year, Gieseke said, they have already received 100 to 150 more cats than this time last year. "We never know from day • to day what we're going to have surrendered to us," she said. "What we have avail- able for adoption sometimes changes by the hour." MVHS is located at 131 Highway 13 in Burnsville. For more information, call (952) ` - 1 1 • visit www.mvhs- ents came from his parents have tha . And that's how it �K 4(/4e/07 Settlement proposed in MAC noise lawsuit Residents brought class action lawsuit shortly after separate suit was filed by cities of Eagan, Minneapolis and Richfield by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Metropolitan Air- ports Commission (MAC) sees it as a fair solution to the airport noise issue for homeowners in Eagan, Min- neapolis, Richfield, and Bloomington. The jury is still out on what residents of those cit- ies think of a proposed set- tlement of their class action lawsuit against the MAC. The settlement, which has yet to be approved by a judge or sent to plaintiffs for their vote, would provide central air conditioning for eligible homes that don't. already have it, as well as $1,750 for additional insulation mea- sures. Homes that already have air conditioning would re- ceive $9,250 for other ap- proved insulation measures. "If you go out and buy doors and windows, they'll pay for that. But $9,000 won't get you many doors and windows," said Charles Thorkildson, chair of the Eagan Airport Relations Commission. Residents filed the lawsuit in 2005 after the MAC chose not to insulate homes ex- posed to airport noise in the 60 to 64 decibel range. The MAC automatically funds noise mitigation measures for homes exposed to noise in the 65-plus decibel range. According to the cities of Eagan, Minneapolis and Richfield, which filed their own separate lawsuit against the MAC over noise issues, See Lawsuit, 6A 7 Grand Caravan SXT Best Value Package Go , Power Doors, Rear Heat/Air, Dual Zone Temp, CD Player, iddle Row Captain Chairs, ABS Brakes. Power (Seats, Windows, Locks, Mirrors). Power Lift Gate MSRP $28,555 Discount -$2,656 Rebate -$4,000 OCO All The Toys -Leather Heated Lthr. Seats, Digital Zone Temp Con CD -Infinity, Power (Seats, Wind.. M: Di: to rs ;e. s- )f e THISWEEK June 16, 2007 15A June is Lakes Appreciation Month in Eagan The Eagan City Council de- clared June as Eagan Lakes Ap- preciation Month. The procla- mation, adopted May 15, urges residents throughout the city to do all they can to keep Eagan lakes clean. The proclamation builds upon a call by Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire in last March's State of the City address for citizens to realize the impor- tant role they can play "in be- ing stewards of this great city." make a difference. Residents The mayor urged residents to mightconsider collaborating on protect shore land landscapes getting a neighborhood canoe, and habitat, start natural rain teaching children how to fish gardens to keep sediments and and proper boating safety tech - fertilizers from getting into niques. The city can help with storm drains and lakes, and to information and expertise. consider adopting a local street The proclamation precedes to keep clear of trash. It starts by getting to know your neighbors, according to Eric Macbeth, Eagan water re- sources coordinator. By work- ing together on common goals and partnering with the city to leverage resources, residents can organize shoreline trash clean-ups, label storm drains, become volunteer lake or pond monitors, and get involved with city lake management plans to consideration by the City Coun- cil in July to adopt a new Water Quality and Wetland Manage- ment Plan, a 10-year blueprint for protection and management of Eagan's more than 350 lakes and ponds, and numerous wet- lands. "Our view is the degree of improvement in lake water qual- ity is directly related to commu- nity building and the extent of neighborhood involvement," said Macbeth. For more information on Eagan's Lakes and Wetland Program, go to www.cityofea- gan.com or contact the Eagan water resources coordinator at waterres@cityofeagan.com or (651) 675-5300. 6A June 16, 2007 THISWEEK In the Community, With the Community, For the Community COMMUNITY NOTES High School Musical A number of Eagan residents have roles in the Children's Theatre Company's production of Disney's "High School Musical," which runs June 30-July 22 on the Mainstage of Children's Theatre, 2400 Third Ave. S., Minneapolis. Katie Allen, a 2002 Eagan High School graduate will play the lead role of Gabriella Montez. Eagan residents Nick Boyd, Cory Stewert, Risa Dorken and Brandon Sommers also have roles in the play. Information: 612-874-0400 or www.childrenstheatre.org. Jump roping class Eagan Parks and Recreation is taking registrations for their summer jump roping class at the community center for youth ages 8-12. Participants will be taught the basics of iumn mining and Christmas donations Dakota Electric Association has joined with Thomson West and the Southwest YMCA Eagan to collect Christmas decorations for Hope Chest, an organization that raises money for breast cancer research. Hope Chest sells furniture, decorative accessories and women's clothing at two store locations in Wayzata and St. Paul. The Hope Chest has already raised nearly $500,000 for breast cancer causes. The organizations are seeking dona- tions of unique, mint condition Christmas decorations (lights must be new in the box). Collection boxes are at Dakota Electric (4300 220th St. W., Farmington) and at the Southwest YMCA (550 Opperman Drive, Eagan). Donations are being taken until June 30. Information: 651-463-6178. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Funfest FROM PAGE 1A "We're looking at a better and safer way to do things," said Seelig of the car- nival. There will also be a Texas Hold 'Ern Tournament at 6 p.m. Tuesday, and that will be followed by a street dance with The Dweebs as the featured performers. A parade will get things started on the Fourth at 10 a.m. There will also be Bingo and a Car Show throughout the afternoon. Live music will also begin at 1 p.m. with concerts by the Eagan Women of Note and the Eagan Men's Choir. County 79, a two-piece band from Jordan, will take the Central Park Bandshell stage at 4:45 p.m. followed by Tim Mahoney, a regular on the Twin Cities music scene, who will perform until the fireworks close the festival at 10 p.m. As the Eagan Lions Club was the sole sponsor of the festival for more than 20 years, this year's festival will be the first time it is operated as an individual non- profit organization. What hasn't changed is that the festival relies heavi- ly on the work of volunteers. "Hopefully [the public] appreciates the fact that it's all volunteers," Seelig said. He said the festival is also still look- ing for volunteers to help out - a big need is for volunteers to make sure chil- dren don't run in the way of floats when gathering candy at the parade. "It's a lot of fun to volunteer. You get to see firsthand everything that's going on" behind the scenes, said Seelig, adding that volunteers also get a free T-shirt. Those interested in volunteering or viewing a full schedule for the Funfest's activities should visit www.eaganfun- fest.org. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth a)acnpapers.com.) Fun on the Fourth of July Eagan Funfest back during week of July 4 GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Raliegh Seelig isn't afraid to set lofty expectations for what he says is a grand finale that won't disappoint. "The fireworks are going to be the biggest," said Seelig, organizer the Eagan Funfest. "We're going to have the biggest and best in Minnesota." Seelig has been involved with the Funfest for more than 20 years and he said he constantly receives the highest praise for the explosive end to the festi- val. But the festival is more than bursts of color. The events will kick of Sunday, July 1, with the preliminary rounds for the Miss Eagan Pageant. The court will then be selected the next day and one contest- ant will be crowned Miss Eagan at noon Wednesday, July 4. A two-day carnival featuring food booths and rides will kick into action 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 3. The carnival will have a familiar look this year, as organizers have decided to go with the same company that does the carnival for the Dakota County Fair. FUNFEST: TO PAGE 15A 1 rr - z q(:)17 say & - ow " nth,. Starting At$ 2899 • Custom Sizes • Energy Efficient • Installed • Oak Seat • Birch Seat • Low E Argon Not valid with other otters. SD,. • Replacement SENIOR CISCOUNTS • Say & Bow TripleTherm • Vinyl & Stee Fascia, Soffit BBB• Patio & Ent • Re-Ro • Residential Town • Professional E • Complete Clean -Up LOWER HEATING MIN D C) W WINDOWS - SIDII www.mnwindowa 1 In the Community,With the Community, For the Community Z5s'C Eagan gets positive news from financial report Report for 2006 shows city saved almost $1 million more than predicted in the budget GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS The numbers are in and they look good for the city of Eagan. The Eagan City Council received its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) June 19 and as it turned out, the city was about $900,000 above what was predicted in the 2006 budget. "The budget was executed well," said Matt Mayer of Kern DeWenter and Viere, the firm that conducted the independent audit on the city's CAFR. "You came in under budget." While the 2006 budget predicted that the city would lose about $281,000 in its fund balance, the CAFR showed that the city gained $613,000 to put Eagan's fund balance at about $10.3 million. That represents 43 percent of the city's current budget, which fits in nicely with the city's goal of keeping the fund balance at 40 to 45 percent, Mayer said. The fund balance is used to keep the city going during the first four or five months of each year, as tax revenues don't start to pour in until the summer. Mayer said the savings realized by the city was mainly due to time in which city positions - many within the police and parks department - were vacant, while the city looked to fill the positions. The city also received $400,000 from cable franchising fees that wasn't predicted in the budget. Along with the news on the budget, the city also found out that they held on to their Aa1 bond rating by Moody's, which is the second highest possible rating for cities. Mayor Mike Maguire thanked the city's Chief Financial Officer Tom Pepper and Director of Administrative Services Gene Vanoverbeke for their work on the budget and preparing the report. "It starts with transparent report- ing and accounting," Maguire said. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth @acnpapers. com.) These pages are provided as a forum to debate ideas of interest and importance in our communities. Signed letters should be no longer than 250 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers and address for verification purposes. Submitted letters and columns become the property of Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and publish them in any format, including online. US ONLINE AT WWW.MNSUN.COM • © 2007 SUN NEWSPAPERS • PAGE 6A ty, family tradition ty in neighbors' names, sharing your famous dyer. potato salad and teaching your children to ould how to look really pathetic so parade walk- - ers will throw him or her more candy. They're about community, about everyone joining together under the sun and having a good time. And really, isn't that an area in which Minnesota excels? ving Take one day this summer and attend your year, town's festival or art fair or Crazy Days. You'll Bath- enjoy a laid-back afternoon and your children ns. I will cherish the memories for a long time to Ting come. You'll not only build community, you'll build a family tradition. asn't Burnsville: International Festival, June and 30 in Nicollet Commons Park; Fire Muster, t the Aug. 7-12, mainly in Civic Center Park; Art lrt of and All That Jazz Festival, Aug. 18, Nicollet •ticu- Commons Park. was Lakeville: Pan-O-Prog, June 30-July 8, )f so downtown. t one Eagan: July 4 Funfest, Eagan Central Park. ike I Apple Valley: Freedom Days, June 22- July 4, all over town; Ring Around the Arts, rtant Sept. 15-16, Apple Valley Municipal Center. ;very Rosemount: Leprechaun Days, July 20- small 29, downtown. tan - Inver Grove Heights: Inver Grove sum- Heights Days, Sept. 6-9. food And of course, don't forget National otato Night Out, Tuesday, Aug. 7. rs in HEATHER VOORHEES Burnsville Sun -Current Community Editor EAGAN SUN MCURRENT In the Community,With the Community, For the Community Jeff Coalman, Group Publisher — VP jcoolman@acnpapers.com 952-392-6807 Peggy Bakken, Executive Editor suneditor@acnpapers.com 952-392-6822 Grant Boelter, Community Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-882-2463 Mike Shaughnessy, Sports Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-392-7667 Bonnie Boberg, Managing Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-882-2461 Rachel Stone, Account Executive rstone@acnpapers.com 952-392-6852 Pam Miller, Classified Manager pmiller@acnpapers.com 952-392-6862 Dan Miller, Advertising Director dmillerCaacnpapers.com 952-392-6894 Volunteers sought for FunFest Eagan's Fourth of July celebration continues to grow by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan's July 4th FunFest is arguably the largest event the conununity has each year, and it continues to grow. This year organizers are hoping for a significant number of volunteers to make sure the event goes off without a hitch. "It's getting bigger, and it will help if we have people working with us," said Raleigh Seelig, who serves on the Eagan Fun- Fest Committee. "The more volunteers we have, the better it will be." The event, including carnival rides, games and entertainment, will be held July 3-4 at Central Park at the Eagan Community See Volunteers, 6A 07 Gran mb. Special ting rd ALL THE FEATURES Leather Seats — Heated Seats, Wireless Headphones, Infinity S Seat, 3-Zone Temp Control, I Buy Now! $ rirg7rITIALLLI ►IIrl2, '+bSA ztune,23; 2007 THISWEEK Volunteers/from 1A Center. The parade will begin on July 4 at 10 a.m. and will travel east on Yankee Doodle Road from Blue Cross Road and north on Central Parkway to the Com- munity Center. This is the first year the Eagan FunFest Committee is seeking a significant number of volunteers, and the first year it is operating as a non-profit organization. So far the committee has signed about 10 or 12 volunteers, but it will take "as many as we can get," said Volunteer Coordi- nator Tracy Fahrenkamp. "We're looking for a lot of help with the parade, and also with keeping the traffic flowing," she said. "We've managed in the past, I just think we're trying to make it an overall great experi- ence for the community." An unlimited number of vol- unteers are needed for the pa- rade, including a parade line-up crew to line up floats and units during the pre -event set up. Parade marshals are needed along the parade route to help ensure candy is not being thrown from floats (candy must be hand- ed by individuals walking alon side of the parade) and to he keep the parade moving. Volunteers are also needed to hand out water to parade partic- ipants at the end of the parade, and to ensure traffic flow at the end of the parade is running smoothly. The committee is seeking four volunteers to provide security in the VIP area, make sure those entering have passes, and keep the general public away from the area. Volunteers are also needed for the information booth to pro- vide general information about FunFest, and traffic and parking volunteers are needed to flag cars before the parade and during the FunFest event. Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt. For more information or to volunteer, contact Tracy Fah- renkamp at (763) 742-0671 or send her an e-mail at eaganfunf estvolunteers@eaganfunfest.org. More information on Eagan's July 4th FunFest can be found at www.eaganfunfest.org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc conz THISWEEK June 23, 2007 SA LI NCOLN MERCURY yeggirii Lease 39 mos • #A382 Doi 195Lor$249Ma D$221M Message Center, 3.5LV6, Auto, Young art patrons £ SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Hannah (left) and Elizabeth Jaeb, both 10, from Eagan examine decorative wind spinners June 23 at the Eagan Art Festival. The two-day festival hosted fine art, handmade crafts, and music performances. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) rb appeal... ES0TA SIDING CO. VG — ROOFING "Time is money" doesn't necessarily cer, her mother was able to be at her ring true to Kathryn Szott, which is why side. she's working to raise money to give par- ents the gift of time. SZOTTS: TO PAGE 4A 1 4n Sa Mafircrr Gall for acalis Simply The Best For Less! ANY SIZE $189* INSTALLED WHITE DOUBLE - HUNG REPLACMENT WINDOW tif■f.�n�w Windows, Siding, Soffit, Fascia, Doors, Leaf Proof Gutters, Roofs Storm Damage Repair CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE (651)770-5570 `Show: 2211th ENo. St. Paul 6mo0°c Financing Available License #20356847 "We are totally satisfied with our windows & siding!"- Mr & Mrs. Sonnenfeld Sedbilf www.189WINDOW.com J E3BURNSVILLE Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. 952-894-0005 "Your Comfort Is Our Business" Save $150 on a new air Thi n Market fresh www.thisweek-online.co Photo by Erin Johnson Carole Rage, left, and Mary Gilbert check out the fresh produce at Schwartz Farms' tent during Eagan's first Marketfest in Central Park on Wednesday. Marketfest, which features a farmers mar- ket, artist booths, food and live music, is held each Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. through Aug. 29. L �ngtAs Paris Stays I n p,isJp,eiso,r=4 �i� • dam;ch'S �. CaII For An Appointment 786-862'2 35W South and Cliff Road 07 Grand Caravan so Power Doors, Power Seat, Power Wind/Locks/Mirrors, Quad Seats - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Wheels, Sunscreen, AntiLock/Traction Control, Roof Rack Buy Now! VAI7L399 • 5-Star Front Impact Crash Test R • Stow-N-Go Seating and Storag • Consumer Digest "Best Buy" Aw Potential Cedar Grove developers narrowed to two by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Eagan City Council has narrowed the list of po- tential developers for the Ce- dar Grove redevelopment area down to two. Four developers had sub- mitted proposals after origi- nal developer Schafer Rich- ardson dropped out of the project: Doran Development with Pratt Homes, JBL Com- panies, Sherman Associates, and TOLD Development Company. Last week, the council in- terviewed the developers and watched their presentations before choosing Doran Devel- opment with Pratt Homes and TOLD Development as the fi- nal two. JBL Companies removed itself from consideration be- fore being interviewed by the council. Proposals from both fi- nal developers contain a mix of housing, retail and office space, which supports the city's vision of returning the area to Q a vibrant, urban center. TOLD's developments in- clude the redevelopment area at Excelsior and Grand in St. Louis Park, a 16-acre mixed- Ni use project that features 644 housing units and 88,000 square feet of retail space. There are some similari- ties between the Excelsior and Grand project and the Cedar Grove redevelopment project. See Developers, 11A I! CK4I!O_U , CAYMENT '0 down, '0 first, & Iic. ='269 '0 down,'0 first, & lic. ='233 pluafirst' 08 Ave ' Nicely Equipped Auto, Air Conditioning, CD Player, Power (wind, locks, mirrors) Cruise, Titt, and More! MSRP $19,155 Discount -$860 Rebate -$500 '0 down, '0 1^ & Iic. ='297 2,000 down, plus 1' payment & Iic, ='189 'Tax, fide rxeme and DO Thank you for riming our disclaimer. O% for 60 mods or O% for 36 months in lieu of rebate or dealer incentive. Lease mots* ex, la pymt 05 CHEV EQUINOX 06 CHEVY IMPALA 4dr, Sedan, LT, 3.9L 6-cc11, 5,980 Miles 4-Speed A $1 93533A �;11:11 :i IIVI4 I l 3 i t l i• 1•/ Developers/from lA Both are mixed -use projects that include housing and re- tail, and the original develop- ers of both projects dropped out after claiming their plans were not financially feasible. Doran Companies and Pratt Homes have teamed up together on several projects, including Silver Lake Village, a mixed -use development in St. Anthony that also shares similarities with the Cedar Grove area. The Silver Lake project revitalized an area that used to be home to Apache Plaza, a shopping mall that, like Eagan's Cedarvale Mall, was build in the 1960s and had become mostly vacant. The site now features new retail and office space, rental units with senior housing and af- fordable units, and condos and townhomes. The project is also pedes- trian friendly, something the Eagan City Council has made a priority for Cedar Grove. The council was pleased by the high quality of the devel- opment teams and their con- cepts for Cedar Grove, said Director of Community De- velopment Jon Hohenstein, but felt that the Doran -Pratt and TOLD Development presentations came closest to the city's vision for the proj- ect. Both developers have been asked to respond to some ad- ditional questions about how they design and manage their developments to be both physically and functionally sustainable over time. The council also asked the developers to provide ad- ditional information about projects they have done in the past that may offer lessons or ideas for Cedar Grove. Coun- cil members and staff plan to visit some of those projects to get a first-hand look at their work, Hohenstein said. A final developer is ex- pected to be chosen for the project by July 10, with con- struction expected to begin next spring. The Cedar Grove rede- velopment area is located east of Cedar Avenue along Highway 13. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. County farmers markets offer hidden treasures Do you want to try this? A question I will never get tired of when it comes to food. And, a question that will proba- bly keep me coming back to farmers markets throughout the summer. Going to a farmers market is something I have been planning since I began buying diy own groceries. And, while it took six long years to plan that trip, I fmally did it last Wednesday. The last time I remember making the trip to such a mar- ket was one Saturday when my Grandma was babysitting me. I had to take a timeout from play- ing to go, which I don't remem- ber being too happy about. But my Grandma also is the one who fmally pushed me to adopt the weekly summer ritual. I recently ate strawberries she picked up at the Faribault Farmers Market and they were the sweetest and juiciest I had ever had. That and a few ears of corn had me salivating for more. When I arrived at the Eagan farmers market, I was disap- pointed to find no stands sell- ing either of those things, and was told I was jumping the gun on the sweet corn season, as the good local ears won't find their way to hungry mouths for a couple of weeks yet. While I didn't see the loads of fresh fruits and vegetables that I pictured, I decided to make my way past the dozen or so stands - the Eagan market is still small, as Market Fest is in its first year. Instead what I found were some original flavors and the stories behind them. Being a huge fan of all things spicy, I first made a stop at a stand that dealt only in hot sauce and the first time I heard those magic words: Do you want to try this? I sampled the spiciest vari- ety that Chris and Julie Heimerl, Eagan residents and creators of Boo! Sauce, had to offer. One taste of the unique spicy, but sweet, barbecue sauce convinced me to buy a bottle. It also felt good to sup- port a new venture, as the Market Fest is the first place where the Heimerls have sold their sauce, which they have been making for their own use for almost 20 years. I later moved on to the Ruhland's Strudel Haus stand. There I tasted something that I would have never thought could be created: a strudel filled with GRANT BOELTER Eagan Sun -Current Community Editor armers markets Apple Valley 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, through Oct. 27; City Hall parking lot, 7100 W. 147th St. Burnsville 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, through Oct 27; Diamondhead Senior Campus, 200 W. Burnsville Parkway. Noon-5 p.m. Thursdays, through Oct. 25; Mary Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Road Eagan 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays, through Aug. 29; Eagan Central Park, 1501 Central Parkway Rosemount 2-6 p.m. Tuesdays, through Sept. 18; 13885 S. Robert Trail Lakeville Noon-5 p.m. Wednesdays, through Oct. 31; intersection of 210th Street and Holyoke Road sauerkraut and bratwurst. While it seemed a strange cre- ation, it was delicious one. In talking with Tom and Kadee Ruhland, I learned they were teachers who lived in Eagan and sell strudels as a summer business venture. I also learned that they buy their apples for their strudels from the Pepin Heights Orchard, which has a stand up the hill at Market Fest. What I enjoyed most about my trip to the market was finding out the details of how the food I'm eating came to be. Somehow the stories seemed to make the food taste even better. I have to say the trip was a lot more fun than a rushed trip down the aisle of a supermarket that I've grown accustomed to. The live music and art exhibits didn't hurt the atmosphere either. While the trip to the farmers market didn't yield all the fruits and veggies that I wanted that day, it did provide me with something that I'm always looking for - something new and unique. (You are invited to comment about this column on our web - site at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) i this building are a 1 vo , said. "The building lends itself as a vir- tual standalone for the school district." Superintendent Jay Haugen said the district is excited to be able to provide its own ALC services to its students. boast "Having an alternative learning center center. is very important for schools in this ouncil state," Haugen said. it June Haugen said one requirement for an est St. ALC site is that it must be housed some - School where other than a school building. This the separation ensures that ALC students of the perform better, he said. Ave. "It's like another school," Haugen district said. "There will be a mixture of stu- ady to dents who will attend the alternative tember. learning center." • t and is Currently, the district uses the alter- d man- native education services of District 917, which has an ALC at Dakota County oved a Technical and Community College om B-3 (DCTC) in Rosemount. District 197 had discussed interest in starting its own the dis- ALC in the area in April. e ALC. Sibley High School Principal Helen r Real Fisk said having a local ALC service at the would be better for students in the dis- trict's trict. "We know that there are students possi- who would like to attend an ALC, but -trict's there isn't anything convenient for them in the district," Fisk said. esents to the ALC: TO PAGE 9A 9 ps $499 sils. :ed rns only, 14266 P Mon. & Thurs. 9 12 MONTHS Thru 14 Cycle, Super Capacity Washer NMWS336FS 6 Cycle, Electric Dryer NMER336FS Pair Price $57900 Before Exclusive Rebate with payments on se BOSCH. 4 Cycle, Stainless Steel, TALL TUB° Dishwasher SHE44CO2 More Ex 22 cu. ft., Bott Refrigerator LB 677e"H x 32'/e"W $ 9995 $699" $8 9" $ White. Black & Bisque Stainless Steel White Black Before Exd Photo contest deadline is Aug. 3 Eagan's third amateur photo contest seeks best images of city by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Budding photographers, it's time to focus your lenses on Eagan. The deadline for the city's third biannual amateur pho- to contest is Aug. 3, leaving less than a month to shoot pictures that are meant 'to highlight the desirable nature of living and working in Ea- gan. The contest was an- nounced last fall, allowing shutterbugs to take full ad- vantage of the four seasons when trying to capture defin- ing images of the city. There are three new cat- egories for the 2007 Picture Eagan photo contest. The Best Postcard View of Eagan aims to find an image that represents Eagan at its ' best and shows visitors why they should visit, or what they could do here if they did. The Best Sense of Volun- See Contest, 5A Fiat' ' czar 'to PC �n A A dr, B%. 07 Grand Cara Power Doors, Power Seat. Power Wind/Lock - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum AntiLocki Gaction Control, R MSf Reb Owl Dis '2,000 down. plus 1„ payment & lic. ='175 5 '0 down, + 1" Payment & lic. = '196 07 Ram 1500 Air Conditioning, CD Player, 40/20/40 Split Special #98118 MS Ret Contest/from lA teerism or Community Ser- vice will show individuals, organizations or groups making a difference and con- tributing to their commu- nity, whether volunteering at a school or church, coaching youth, or helping those who are less fortunate. The final category, Eagan at Play, will best portray one of the many ways to have fun in Eagan, from the city's multitude of outdoor ac- tivities and parks to festivals and events. The contest is an afford- able way for the city to get a variety of images of Eagan, said Communications Direc- tor Tom Garrison, and aspir- ing photographers of all ages are encouraged to enter. Contest entrants must ei- ther live or work in Eagan. A maximum of three pho- tos per person may be sub- mitted, and photos will be judged by a panel of inde- pendent experts. The deadline for entries is Friday, Aug. 3 at 4:30 p.m. Winners of each cat- egory will receive $50, and the prize for the best over- all photo is $100. Winning photos will also be used in city publications and on its Web site, and all submitted photos may be put on public display. For contest entry forms or more information, visit www.cityofeagan.com. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. aces 'A' honor roll dowski, Wanwei Liang, Jacquelyn Mangano, Barbara Marchevsky, Colton Marti, Alexander Ma - teen, Gina Mbachu, Samantha McNabney, Samantha Mehr, Ja- mie Melton, Semira Mohammed, Landon Moore, Anna Moorse, Patrick Moran, Matthew Mraz, Jenna Mushro, Claire Nelson, Joshua Noah, Kelsey North, Anna Olson, Adam Overvig, Ben- jamin Parranto, Alyssa Paulsen, Jacob Pavlo, Alisa Petersen, Anna Peterson, James Petran, Hannah Pirner, Alexander Pojman, Alyssa Poquette, Rachael Price, Ryan Price, Sara Race, Alicia Ranas- inghe, Taylor Rasmussen, Saman- tha Rettke, Kristen Riehle, Pat- rick Ross, Laura Ruane, Alyson DeFrance, Colin Desmond, Risa Dorken, Daniel Dorsch, Kelsey Eaton, David Eddy, Adam Ed- winson, Erik Fabry, Christine Fifield, Trevor Flaten, Me- gan Fraki, Samantha Franson, Danielle Fraser, Christine Fries, Chelsea Fuller, Alyssa Gallo- way, Zachary Gansmoe, Pamela Gherau, Kyle Gleason, Joshua Goldberger, Lindsay Green, John Greene, Michael Grinnell, Travis Gullett, Brianna Gunnerson, No- elle Habib, Heidi Hager, Allison Hall, Kayla Hall, Jenna Hanson, Craig Harnagel, Alexandra Her- man, Jacob Higgins, Julie Hill, Jessica -Hogan, Jonathan Hsiao, Ally Huang, Timothy Hufford, Casey Jacobson, Kjirsten Jacob - JULY 7, 2007 VOLUME 28, NO. 19 Because the news never stops July 4th FunFest Parade Eagan's annual July 4th FunFest Parade featured the Zurah Shrine Pipe Band, top, and Eagan firefighters, above. Right: A cub Scout from Pack 622 cools off the crowd with a water gun. For more photos, see Page 13A. www.thisweek-online.com 2A July 7, 2007 THISWEEK Mirrors, Quad Seats Wheels, Sunscreen. f Rack P $28,605 ate -$4,000 er Loyalty -$1,000 ount -$3.610 nch, Tilt, Work Group RP $22,125 ate -$6,000 count -$3.126 07 Grand Caravan Srenger Special Edition ALL THE FEATURES OF THE SXT PLUS Leather Seats - Heated Seats. Power Liftgate, C Rear Seat Video, Wireless Headphones, Infinity Speakers, Power Driver & Pass, Seat, 3-Zone Temp Control, In -Dash 6-Disc CD/DVD/MP3 MSRP $32,010 Rebate -$4,000 Owner Loyalty -$1,000 Discount-$4.011 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & lic. ='238 '0 down. + 1" Payment & lit, ='315 '' 07 Ram 2500 Quad Cab CUMMINS DIESEL - BIG HORN HO Cummins Turbo Diesel, Auto, Air, CD Player, Power (Seat, Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Trailer Tow. Aluminum Wheels, 1-Year SIRIUS, Fogs, Slider #98044 MSRP $43,035 Rebate -$3,500 Discount -$6 546 Auto, Air Conditioning, CD Player, PO ruise. lilt an '0 down, 0 1°. & IIc. ='297 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & lic. = 07 Ram 15 BIG HORN VALUE GR 5.7 Hemi with MDS/Improved Fuel, A Power (Seat, Locks, Mirrors, Windows #98128 Suhmitmd photo The Eagan Fire Department recently acquired an all terrain vehicle that will help it fight fires and conduct rescues in remote areas. Fire Department gets new `toys' New vehicles will allow firefighters to respond to a wider range of situations by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS This spring, the Eagan Fire Department got a new alumi- num boat to make water res- cues easier. Now the depart- ment has acquired two more vehicles that will allow it to more effectively conduct res- cues and fight fires in a broad range of situations. • Gopher Resources Cor- poration recently donated a $15,000 all terrain vehicle (ATV) to the department to help fight grass fires in areas that are difficult for regular vehicles to enter, such as the Minnesota River bottoms. In April, the department had to borrow similar vehicles from other departments for a grass fire near the Minnesota River that was caused by a passing train. "That really reinforced how useful they are. They were the See Vehicles, 5A '2,000 down, plus 1. payment & lic. ='169I999 '0 down, + 1' Payment & lic. ='239 , '2.000 down '0 down, Thank you for rea3ng our drsdaimer. 0% for 60 months or o% for 36 monde in neu of rebate a dealer incentive. Lease pym6 + tax, I st pymt 04 CHRYSLER SEBRING 2dr convertible LXi. 2.7L V6, 6Cy1,4-speed NT 13106 'i 3,925 04 FORD TAURUS 4dr, Sedan, LT, 3.9L 6-cyl. 5.980 Miles 4-Speed A/T 03533A 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY 03 DODGE DURANGO 4dr, 4.7L4WD, SLSUV 13101 Pus,$4 9 -888-786-8622 86-8622 Vehicles/from 1A only vehicles that could get down in that area," said Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott. The ATV can seat four fire- fighters and is equipped with a 50-gallon water tank and pump. The vehicle will also allow firefighters to rescue people in remote areas, such as the 2,000-acre Lebanon Hills Re- gional Park in southern Ea- gan. The department has had to rescue injured skiers and horseback riders from that area in the past, Scott said. "We really had no way to get them out except firefight- ers carrying them out," he said. The ATV features a mount- ed backboard to transport in- jured victims safely, he said. Gopher Resources has been very supportive of the Eagan Fire Department, Scott said. In addition to donating the ATV, the company employs two Eagan firefighters and al- lows them to leave work dur- ing the day to respond to con- firmed structure fires. "They've really been a good partner for the city, and espe- cially the fire department," he said. The department also re- cently acquired a new brush fire truck, a 2008 F450, four - door pick-up truck that can be used to tow a Hazmat decon- tamination trailer and the fire prevention safety trailer. The $50,000 truck replaces THISWEEK July 7, 2007 SA a 1985 truck that could only carry two firefighters. The new truck comes equipped with a water tank, pump and foam system and can pump water while in motion unlike regular fire trucks. "You can drive and pump at the same time which is impor- tant for grass fires," Scott said. It can also be used in situ- ations that a regular fire truck couldn't, such as a car fire in a parking ramp, he said. "We really want to use these as multi -purpose vehicles as much as possible," he said. "We're already finding a lot more uses for them than we ex- pected." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 6A July 7, 2007 THISWEEK Educatii'ii Eastview The following students were named to the Eastview High School "A" honor roll for the fourth quarter of the 2006- 2007 school year. The honor roll does not include students who attend SES. Students en- rolled in the Post Secondary Options Program more than half time are also not includ- ed. Grade 9: Olufunmilola Adams, Bailey Anderson, Laura Apple- ton, Laura Bachmeier, Brett Be- attie, Jayashree Bierbaum, Joshua hm. Julie High School annotu Kelly Kayser, Paige Kelly, Josiah Kennealy, Allen Keomongkoth, Lauren Kim, Madelyn Klein, Madeline Kofoed, Jordan Kuhn, Bryan Larson, Courtney Law- rence, Mackenzie Lecy, Nicole Leners, Colleen Lesch, Shirley Liao, Matthew Lilledahl, Adam Lindstrom, Bradley Losee, Mark Lupo, Samantha Mahoney, Nich- olas Mako, Sarah Malaske, Kevin Mar, Sean Marben, Molly Max - son, Elizabeth May, Michelle Mc- Guire, Jordan McKeen, Allison Merkley, Jonathan Miles, Bridget Moran, Alexandra Mullenberg, Jesse Myers, Michael Myslinski, Tiffany Norton, ren, Grade 10: Diana Ahnemann, Lauren Albers, Joshua Alland, Elise Allen, Kirsten Anderson, Anna Appelquist, Taylor Augus- tin, Emma Austin, Alex Bakken, Lindsay Becker, Allison Benner, Hayley Benner, Kaye Lani Berg, Grigoriy Berman, Carly Booth, Benjamin Brumm, Blake Brunn, Peter Bryan, Emily Bryant, Ryan Budin, Binh Bui, Colin Burke, Stacia Burtis, Kalie Caetano, Paige Campbell, Lauren Carlson, John Cayton, Vincent Cheng; Andrew Christensen, Andrea Chvatal, Sarah Covington, Ty- ler Cozort, Abigail Crane, Sean Crawford, Tyler Cropsey, Thom- as Curry, Michael Danley, Jake ond, Bry- Thanks to Mayor Maguire To the editor: I would like to express my appreciation and support for Mayor Mike Maguire for sending a letter to the Metro- politan Airports Commission (MAC) complaining about the unnecessary increase in flights taking off from the 17/35 runway. The MAC has demonstrat- ed again a complete disregard for the citizens of Eagan. Air- port noise is pollution, and the MAC has been unneces- sarily "dumping" excessive pollution into Eagan with- out consequence or concern. Whether the reason for this is economic convenience at the expense of Eagan fami- lies or a form of retaliation for Eagan's lawsuit aimed to hold the MAC to its commit- ments, it's clearly unethical behavior. In a further preposter- ous insult to our collective intelligence, the MAC has suggested that the city actu- ally requested more air traffic from 17/35. This is the same type of behavior we have seen from the big corporate pol- luters of the past, which is to attempt to blame the victims of the pollution and avoid taking any reasonable, low- cost measures to protect the environment. I applaud the mayor for his initiative, but I fear that it will likely be ignored by the MAC along with any common-sense restrictions proposed to limit noise pollution that might cause any inconvenience for the airport operations. JOSEPH McMAHON Eagan 9,,,, -7. 0'7 Cedar Grove landowners r'°\J waiting for better offers Eagan City Council will decide July 17 whether to use eminent domain GRANT ROELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Jerry Larson once was forced to move his business, and he doesn't want to do it again. Larson owns Larson Auto Repair at 3955 Cedarview Drive, which lies in an area the city of Eagan has targeted for redevelopment. Larson had to move his shop from Mendota Heights over a decade ago when the owner of the building sold it to a developer, but now that he owns his building he said he's not moving - at least not under the terms the city has proposed. The city wants to own all the proper- ty in the Cedar Grove Redevelopment Area, and the City Council will decide July 17 whether to authorize eminent domain as a tool to acquire the remain- ing 20 percent of the property. S J s) C)...1-'1)444A. CEDAR GROVE: TO PAGE 17A Burnsville audience June 30 at the International Festival of nt celebrated cultures from around the world with more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at Cedar Grove FROM PAGE 1 A The city already owns the rest, including the Cedarvale Mall. The meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. at Eagan City Hall, 3830 Pilot Knob Road. If the use of eminent domain is approved at the meeting, the City Council will still need to decide on a case -by -case basis which properties will be identified for its use. While the city has been working on the redevelopment project in the area east of Highway 77 and south of Highway 13 for years, the deadline to use eminent domain as a redevelopment tool is approaching. The state legislature limit- ed the use of eminent domain for eco- nomic redevelopment as of July 2008. Eagan Community Development Director Jon Hohenstein said the city has relied on area landowners to initiate the sale process. He said the city has mainly done this through a newsletter sent to area property owners. "The process we've used is to ask them to have an appraisal submitted to us," said Hohenstein. The city attorney and an appraiser then will work on the negotiations for the city, he said. Larson, the auto shop owner, said he's unwilling to hire an appraiser until he knows he'll get a fair price from the city. He said he's made an offer to the city to sell it his business for $800,000, which the city rejected. "I feel that all of us have tried to be reasonable in working with the city" Larson said. Jamal Al Ansari, who along with Larson has retained the services of real estate attorney Gary Fuchs, said he hasn't received a palatable offer from the city for his restaurant, Mediterranean Cruise Cafe, at 3945 Sibley Memorial Highway. He said the comparable lots he's found in the area SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Jerry Larson, owner of Larson Auto Service in Eagan, looks under the hood of a vehicle while working in his shop July 6. The city is considering the use of eminent domain to acquire the land in the Cedar Grove Redevelopment Area where Larson and other businesses are located. Without fair compensation for his business, Larson said he will have to close his shop. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) as prospective new locations have cost more than what he's been offered by the city for his lot and building. "Jamal did [get his own appraisal], and all [the city] did was criticize it," Fuchs said. "The problem is fair com- pensation." Al Ansari also said it was unfair he was forced to leave while Jensen's Supper Club and Cedarvale Lanes have been protected as part of the new devel- opment. "I'm a unique business. We have things that nobody has," Al Ansari said. Hohenstein said the businesses which will remain were identified by a task force of business owners that mainly considered their location, as the east end will likely be where the food, retail and entertainment district will be located. "It doesn't mean that any of the busi- nesses are any more or less valuable," said Hohenstein. "The quandary that these guys are in is, they're facing the loss of property they own and loss of the business rota- tion that they have, and they don't know when they're going to lose it and they don't know how much money they're going to get for it," Fuchs said. "They're between a rock and a hard place." Hohenstein said while eminent domain proceedings go on, settlements could be reached between the city and landowners at any time. The city has yet to use eminent domain to acquire land for economic redevelopment when the landowners don't want to use the process, and the City Council has said they wish to keep it that way. "They haven't actually used eminent domain down here, but they've used the fear of it," said Randy Quam, the owner of Competition Engines at 3925 Cedarview Drive. Quam has also yet to reach an agreement with the city. "The businesses that are left are the ones that really don't want to move," he said. "They really don't have any place to go. They're the ones that are left to try and negotiate." Larson said if he doesn't get a fair price, he plans to challenge whether the city has the right to use eminent domain in this circumstance. He and Fuchs questioned whether the city should still be grandfathered into the old rules, even though it has changed developers for the project. "We feel we should be treated under the new eminent -domain law We're going to fight it in court to the bitter end," Larson said. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) 30 Super Late Model feature. He's the latest of the Murgic racing family from Rosemount to have success at Elko. Four generations of Murgics have raced at the speedway. Steve Murgic, Nick's father, contin- ues to race at Elko and throughout the Upper Midwest. Nick Murgic stayed near the lead the entire June 30 race, taking the lead with 13 laps remaining. It's not his first victory behind the wheel. In 2005, he had a feature victory at Raceway Park in Shakopee, where he also was Rookie of the Year in the Short Tracker division. Last year at Elko, he was Rookie of the Year and Most Improved Driver in the Sportsmen class and also won the division's sportsmanship award. This year, he is llth in the Super Late Model points stand- ings at Elko and fifth in the Late Model standings at Raceway Park. Marks wins again Former University of Minnesota and Apple Valley High School track and field standout Shani Marks won her second consecutive national outdoor title in the women's triple jump last month in Indianapolis. The victory qualifies her for the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) world championships Aug. 25-Sept. 2 in Osaka, Japan. She placed seventh in the triple jump at the 2006 world champi- onships. SHAUGHNESSY: TO NEXT PAGE season ended, I could tell they were disap- pointed," said Cobras coach Greg Nesbitt. "They expected to go to the state tourna- ment. And they fully expect to go back to the state Legion tournament." In 2006, the Cobras made their first appearance in the state Legion tournament in more than 20 years and finished third. e sai s certainly would- n't take too many teams over this one." Stitz was batting above .500 through the first 17 games, and Dubanoski and Sackett were above .450. The Cobras expected Threlkeld to be their No. 1 starting pitcher, but rotator cuff problems are likely to keep him off the mound (he will still play first base and pos- opens Friday, July 12, ., n 48 teams playing at eight sites. Burnsville opens pool play against Edina at 9:30 a.m. at Braemar Park in Edina. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at suncur- rentsouth@acnpapers.com.) Fire Cup action Alex Opel-Schmit (right) of the Burnsville Fire controls the ball during a Under- 12 boys game against Cottage Grove on Friday during the Fire Cup soccer tour- nament. Cottage Grove won 2-0. More than 200 boys and girls teams competed in the 29th annual Fire Cup tournament last weekend. At left, Logan Reimer (right) of the Burnsville Fire kicks the ball away from a Cottage Grove defender. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnsun.com) PHOTOS BY SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS 750 Vol. 32, No. 28 EAGAN * JULY 12, 2007 CURRENT In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com A marching tribute SPORTS Youth soccer squads in action PAGE 18A SUBMITTED PHOTO Students from the Pat Peare School of Dance performed a tribute to the armed forces as they marched July 4 in the Eagan Fun Fest Parade. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) 2A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current — Thursday, July 12, 2007 — www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Communi WINDOWS — SIDING — ROOFING Minimum 3 or more windows 1 • Tilt -in Cleaning • Insulated Glass t I • Maintenance Free • Lifetime Warranty t Not valid with other offers. I • Lifetime Warranty I • 1 layer tear off S� • lyvek Housewrap • Dumpster based on 1,000 sq. ft Not valid with other offers. r 'Y Bay & Bow Windows rt Starting AtT 2899 • Custom Sizes • Oak Seat • Energy Efficient • Birch Seat • Installed • Low E Argon i 1 1 Not valid with other otters. Easy to maintain... A wise investment... Curb appeal... SD.. • Replacement Windows SENIOR r,Yai, F .,.� DISCOUNTS • Bay & Bow Windows TripleTherm • Vinyl & Steel Siding, Fascia, Soffit & International flavor i Czech and Polish dancers perform for the Burnsville at Nicollet Commons Park. The ev food, music, dance and entertainment. (Fo www.mnSun.com.) A Flat Screen Monil 6A -June 30, 2007 THISWEEK agan rt estival Visit. Art Fe :. weekend t e an i Eagan bray paintings, pusic. and even kite de `, strations. Photos by Erin Johnsou A young festival visitor takes this bucket's advice and tries out some bubbles. Top: Glass balls on display at Felicity Arts' booth. Above: Rachel Metz of Eagan gets a dragonfly painted in henna on her leg from Leanne French -Amara, also of Eagan. -i THISWEEK June 30, 2007' I SA State schools will see tuition increase Increase of 4 percent approved for 2007-08 by T.W. Budig ECM CAPITOL REPORTER The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) Board of Trustees Wednesday, June 20 approved a 4 percent tuition increase for the 2007-08 academic year. But it held out hope stu- dents could see smaller tuition increases in 2009. The board approved an amendment offered by Trustee Dan McElroy of Burnsville that will have staff reporting back in January on the fiscal impact of limiting tuition in- creases to two percent or less for MnSCU colleges students and three' percent or less for MnSCU university students in 2009. The odds were "pretty good," McElroy opined, the S9 million needed to make the cuts could be found within the $1.3 billion MnSCU budget. Lawmakers would view the tuition cuts as "good news," McElroy, a former lawmaker, said. Prior to the start of the leg- islative session last January, the MnSCU board indicated that it would hold tuition increases to four percent a year over the two-year budget cycle. But recent public hearings — the strong student concerns expressed over tuition increas- es — encouraged the board to reexamine tuition issues, ex- MnSCU Chancellor said Scott Formo, Minnesota State College Student Associa- tion president, after the board meeting. Formo explained there was nothing binding in the amend- ment — the board may make good the tuition cuts, but it might not, he explained. Formo, testifying before the board, argued in favor of a proposal that would have tapped into MnSCU technol- ogy funding to pay for a sec- ond -year tuition buy -down. But Trustee James Van Houten argued it was "a little troubling" that students would look to technology funding for tuition revenue without know- ing exactly the impact. Under McElroy's amend- ment all MnSCU funding av- enues are open as a possible source for the $9 million. Tuition increase percent- ages are averages — some col- leges and one university will see less than a four percent increase in 2007-08 academic year. Tuition increases for local MnSCU colleges are projected at: • Anoka -Ramsey Commu- nity College, 4 percent increase or $136. • Anoka Technical College, 3 percent increase or $122. • Dakota County Techni- cal College, 4 percent or $163. • Inver Hills Community College, 3.9 percent or $153. Carpet Cleaning Powered by Oxygen! "The most effective way to keep your carpets clean and looking their best!" • Deeper cleaning than steam or them cleaning • Fast drying (about one hour) Oxymagic's Natures Way® • No Toxic Chemicals Call Today • Child & Pet Safe Pet Stain & Spec alistsal 651-457-5570 Oxymagic Minnesota 11.4 6R.636947R•123 Carpet Cleaning Powered by Oxygen www.oxymagiconline.com 'H�PPY� �HARRII:S FURNITURE 000 purchase APPY RRY' Whole House se charge for doors or bathrooms. $179 Snal<waia"4 With coupon only Nat bid Wa y other oNu Exp. 7i 31r07. a..a25%Ofi 3 Rooms & Hall $89 Save 520.00 ifo charge for closets or bathrooms. Stairs extra With ampm cd,f. Na,* wary dher offer Exp 7/31/01. Upholstery Cleaning 8 R 5-AR F R Son> od $74.99 14.99 r45.00 With coupon only. Not valid w/any other offer. Exp.131/01. $2000 AP AR Coupon Expires July 4th Coupon Expires July -ith Coupon Ex Not valid with any other offers Not valid with any other offers Not valid with Photo by Erin Johnson A member of the Minnesota Kite Society, dressed in his Sunday best, flies a kite high over the Eagan Art Festival at Central Park. For more photos, see Page 16A. '0 down, '0 first, & lic. ='269 '0 down '0 first, & Iic. ='233 Nicely EquIME Auto, Air Conditioning, CD Player, Power (wind, locks, mirrors) Cruise, Tilt, and More! g7pnww,=e{p MSRP $19,155 :lYai1J Discount -$860 Rebate -$500 '0 dorm, '01.8 lit. = 2eb 97 T 1 7, 795 ,'2,000 down, plus 1" payment 8 lic. ='189 Thank you for rearing our dadome.. 0% for 60 months or 0% for 36 months in 04 CHRYSLER SEBRING 2dr convertible LXi, 2.7L V6, 6Cy1,4-speed Arr 13106 �13,925��i •5 1 .( 'Tax, Pith iame and '0 2,000 06 CHEVY IMPALA 4dr. Sedan, LT. 3.9L 6-cyl, 5,980 Miles 4-Speed A/T 93533A 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY .m.srr•a ,, 3.3L V6, 23940$ 4 � 23940 Mi, NT 13127 04 FORD TAURUS 03 DODGE DURANGO Artist Claudia M. Faith of Bearly Artworks works on an oil painting of sheep while displaying her completed canvases. itimk hurt illlu,, .. ti atnl. wry } Below: A member of the Minnesota Kite Society demonstrates one of his unusual kites. Left: Shoppers check out the rings at John the Ringman's booth. Far left: Children's book author and il- lustrator Gary Harbo's booth featured some of his creations. James McCormick. McCormick views the College, 4 percent or $156. board revisiting the issue as • North Hennepin Com- evidence of student power. munity College, 4 percent or MnSCU college tuitions $157. rank among the highest in the • Pine Technical College, nation. 3.7 percent or $135. Student leaders appearing before the board Wednesday T.W. Budig is at tim. were lukewarm to the McEl- budig@ecm-inc.com. roy amendment. "I'm a little disappointed," Search for Mrs. Dakota County announced Applications are being ac- to represent Minnesota at cepted for the title of Mrs. Da- the 2008 Mrs. International kota County 2008. Pageant. Mrs. Dakota County will Married women living in represent her county at the Mrs. Dakota County interested in Minnesota pageant, which will applying should .write for a be held at Ritsche Auditorium bio-form at: Mrs. Minnesota March 8-9, 2008, in St. Cloud. International Pageant, P.O. The woman chosen as Mrs. Box 240537, Apple Valley, MN Dakota County will become a 55124-0537 or call for informa- Dakota County ambassador tion: (952) 432-6758; e-mail: and receive a prize package pagunitd@frontiernet.net. worth $7,000 and the chance Energy/from 1A through training. The program was devel- oped by Hallberg Engineer- ing, Inc. of White Bear Lake in response to school districts' needs for a flexible, self -imple- mented plan to save energy and develop a long-term cul- ture of energy efficiency. If approved by District 196 board members at their next meeting, the district would be obligated to track energy use and costs using software, which would have a total pro- gram cost of $149,130 for two years. The goals of the program are to reduce energy use by 10 percent, achieve national rec- ognition from the U.S. Envi- ronmental Protection Agency and ENERGY STAR for building and district wide im- provements, and engage staff and students in saving energy. If a 10 percent energy use re- duction is achieved, $297,543 are projected to be saved in year one and $317,753 are projected to be saved in year two. After the initial two-year contract, one-year extensions are available for program years three through five. Costs in those years would be less than in the initial two years because much of the staff would al- ready be trained. Jeff Achen can be reached at ay.thisweek@ecm-inc.com. M-F 9-9 • Sat. 9-5 • Sun. 12-5 651-463-7482 • Hwy. 3 - Just South of Farmington www.HappyHarrysFurniture.com 6/30.690)32R•0. Vee,rotaaceee Special Section Published: Saturday, August 4 Deadline: Friday, July 20 Reach Over 88,000 Homes South of the River! Apple Valley • Burnsville Credit River • Eagan • Elko Farmington • Hampton Lakeville • New Market Prior Lake • Rosemount Savage • Webster IperS 12190 Co. Rd. 11 • Burnsville • 952-846-2011 • Fax: 952-846-2021 mto C1�-, g, zoo7 Cedar Grove gets master developer City chooses Doran Pratt to bring urban village concept to life by Erin Johnson TH[SWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Cedar Grove redevel- opment area has a new mas- ter developer to bring to life the city's longtime vision of a vibrant urban village. The Eagan City Council on Tuesday unanimously named the team of Doran Develop- ment and Pratt Homes as master developers for the 70- acre Cedar Grove area. Original developer Schafer Richardson dropped out of the project in December, say- ing its plan for the area was no longer viable due to the flat condominium market. The field of new candi- dates was narrowed to two — Doran Pratt and TOLD De- velopment — and the council agonized over the decision between the well -qualified firms. Mayor Mike Maguire com- pared it to choosing between "two equally equipped luxury vehicles." Both have extensive experi- ence and have worked on well - know redevelopment projects around the metro. TOLD's experience in- cludes the redevelopment area at Excelsior and Grand in St. Louis Park, and Doran Pratt developed Silver Lake Village, a mixed -use devel- opment in St. Anthony that shares many similarities with the Cedar Grove area. The Silver Lake project revitalized an area around a 1960s shopping mall that had become mostly vacant, similar to Eagan's Cedarvale Mall. The site now features new retail and office space, rental units with senior hous- ing and affordable units, and condos and townhomes. The area is also pedestrian friendly, something the Eagan City Council has made a pri- ority for Cedar Grove. "Both developers under- stand that a complex rede- velopment project like this is both a science and an art," said Council Member Paul Bakken. "The difference is that TOLD seemed to be ap- proaching it more as a science than an art." Doran Pratt seemed to fa- vor a more organic approach to the project, Bakken said, which he found appealing. Maguire said it was ex- tremely difficult to choose between two excellent firms, but believes Doran Pratt will be a first-rate development partner "who understands the community's goals and aspirations for this important area." Doran Development has also worked on Woodbury Commons and Tamarack Vil- lage in Woodbury, and Pratt Homes developed the High Point and Watersford Villas at Dancing Waters in Wood- bury. "Obviously we're hon- ored," said Kelly Doran of Doran Development. "We're hopeful that we can accom- plish something that not only will we be proud to own, but the city will be proud to have in the community." Although the master plan has yet to be refined, the team's concept for Ce- dar Grove includes housing, shopping, entertainment, open space for community gatherings and a local "Main Street" theme with a strong emphasis on walkability. The developers said they don't envision big -box retail stores on the site because they would use up too much valu- able space. "This is a neighborhood commercial site," Doran said. "We want to create something unique enough to draw folks from other parts of Eagan to this site." The housing will include senior and affordable hous- ing, which will be seamlessly integrated through architec- ture, said Len Pratt of Pratt Homes. The developers said they are not concerned that the current soft housing market will negatively impact the de- velopment. "The development busi- ness is not about today or tomorrow, it's about a year or two or three years from now," Doran said. "We're hopeful, and we believe, that the mar- ket will get better. And we believe there will be a mar- ketplace for the type of hous- ing that we're going to deliver here." Pratt said he's been through 35 years of housing cycles, and this is just another cycle to get through. "It's a great city to live in, and that's the basis of what our confidence is in housing demand as it returns," he said. "This is a place where people want to live — close by, con- venient to all the services and transportation — and that eventually is going to rank right up there when this hous- ing market does return. And it will." The city will now work with the developers to lay out a schedule for the project, refine the master plan, and define the first phase of the redevelopment area, which is located east of Cedar Avenue along Highway 13. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Op�iii'n Letters An interesting story To the editor: I'd like to extend a special thank you to two Eagan city employees who went above and beyond to help -me. A week or so ago, as I was leaving Wal-Mart in Town Cen- tre in the rain with my 2-year-old grandson, he grabbed my car keys and set off the car alarm. In the struggle to get the keys away from him and shut off the alarm, the keys dropped to the ground and went straight down one of the holes in the sewer cover. Fortunately, I always car- ry a spare car key in my purse, so was able to get into my car and get the alarm turned off On my way home, I called the Eagan Police Department who transferred me to the Ea- gan Maintenance Department. I spoke with Linda in that de- partment who was immensely helpful. She asked the location of the sewer cover and told me I should just go on home and she'd handle it. She called me back once to verify the location of the sewer and said someone would call me if they were able to get my keys. Less than an hour later, I got a phone call from a gentleman (sadly, I don't remember his name) who said he had retrieved the keys for me and would drop them off at my house. About 5 minutes later, he pulled up with my keys, tested them to be sure they worked and was off to an- other call. I was so impressed with these two employees and thank them both for their politeness, under- going the ex - to fail. We get this money back in spades — 80 cents from the federal government for every 20 cents we put in and it makes our economy stronger when people work on the roads and when people get to work on time. We invited our state repre- sentative, Lynn Wardlow, into our business to see the machines and equipment and showed him that we need people to get there without wasting time on crummy roads as well as getting skilled people from our univer- sities and trade schools. By sup- porting the governor, Wardlow shows that could care less about the businesses such as construc- tion, ours in manufacturing, or trucking as well as care less about the people who have to cross the river to go to work. Ms. Kreitz needs to get a job where she has to get through the traffic jams and find skilled people to work with so she stops celebrating a partisan victory of bad roads and lower skill work force. MIKE FEDDE Eagan Yeah, governor, thanks a lot To the editor: Alice Kreitz dutifully spewed the GOP/Conservative talking points in her lionizing "Thank You Governor Pawlenty" letter, using that time -worn descrip- tion "liberals and their wild tax -and -spend agenda." She praised "vetoes of wasteful and unnecessary appropriation bills, transportation and bond - in$ bills." Please, take me to the land of Oz. cent of taxpayers, which would have leveled an unequal tax burden borne mostly by a strug- gling middle class; • vetoing the bonding bill delayed dozens of desperately needed construction projects. For all this we thank the governor, and thank him for forgetting his humble middle class upbringing as he caters to society's elite, because if not for help from him, where could they turn? Or perhaps remembering his two plurality victories, he should have focused on the State House instead of the White House. ALAN MILLER Eagan No vote wasn't in Eagan's best interests To the editor: "Vote no, Wardlow." This is the command given by House Minority Leader Marty Seif- ert to Eagan's state Rep. Lynn Wardlow on the last night of the 2007 legislative session, di- recting Wardlow to vote against a bill to provide health care to 30,000 Minnesota children. And like the loyal follower he is, that is exactly what Wardlow did. While "vote no, Wardlow" was caught on tape just this one time, it obviously was a com- mand that Seifert issued to our state representative on many oc- casions during the 2007 session. Wardlow, who told Thisweek Eagan last October that "full eligibility for MinnesotaCare should be maintained," voted to expand MinnesotaCare (y ZO0`1 U )ec-)2_ Long-time headaches cured at Dakota County meeting Years of disagreements culminated in contracts by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Commissioners Mike Turn- er and Nancy Schouweiler each had wishes come true at the Dakota County Board meeting of July 10. Agreements were reached in issues that have long plagued each commissioner's district, ' representing the Burnsville and Eagan areas, respectively. For Turner, the solution to balancing traffic headaches and business interests will result in Dakota County embarking upon the biggest construction project in its history. County Project 42-91, as it's officially titled, will expand a portion of County Road 42 (from County Road 5 to Joppa Avenue in Scott County) from four to six lanes. Details are described in a 700-page construction plan that is so large it is the first to be recorded on a CD instead of paper copies. The project is the result of increasing traffic along County Road 42, and the need for more lanes. However, property owners were concerned about many is- sues, including right of way im- pacts, and for businesses, traffic diversions cutting into sales. "We started this project af- ter we'd done a study, and vir- tually nobody was in favor of it," Turner said. The county got cities and others impacted by the prob- lems involved in the issue, meeting together, presenting findings, alternatives and pos- sibilities. Resolving issues has taken many meetings and years of discussions. The consensus process was completed just 45 minutes be- fore the board's meeting, when the state told county officials they had been granted final project approval. "The work to get us to this point really has been a part- nership effort," said County Transportation Director Mark Krebsbach. Project funding involves Burns- ville, both counties, Savage, the state and federal government. Construction is slated to be- gin later this month, and will take two years to complete. Traffic will be diverted at vari- ous times. The county will maintain communication with property and business owners via e-mail and newsletters. Flood of relief Schouweiler's smile was the result of the complicated and contentious issue of storm wa- ter, which started in the "super storm" of 2000, when many Eagan homes were flooded. Stormwater flows crossed political boundaries, involv- ing the county's Lebanon Hills Park, several watershed dis- tricts, and areas of Apple Val- ley, Rosemount and Eagan. Dakota County Parks Di- rector Steve Sullivan worked with officials from the cities to determine flows and overcome differences to create a plan that divides fiscal responsibility proportionate to the level of runoff entering the system. Through a joint powers agreement among Eagan, Rosemount, Dakota County and Apple Valley, the city of Eagan will construct a sewer improvement project, while the county and cities perform im- provement projects that divert and reduce flows to Eagan's sewer system. Details of the requirements, projects and responsibilities are laid out in a storm water plan, which all entities have agreed to. "Residents don't thoroughly understand the undertaking that has led to this agreement that's before us today, but I do think they will understand when they see the work that is done this fall," said Schouwei- ler. She complimented Sullivan and all officials involved for having done "a yeoman's job of making sure this came to fruition. I, for one, thoroughly appreciate it." Laura Adelmann is at dceditor@ fron tiernet. ne t. Senii'rs Eagan activities The Eagan Parks and Recreation Department sup- ports the following regular senior activities. Unless oth- erwise noted, all activities are held in the Lone Oak Room of the Eagan Community Center, located at 1501 Cen- tral Parkway. For directions, questions or more informa- tion, call (651) 675-5500. The following activities are scheduled: • • Monday, July 16: Pops Orchestra trip, 9 a.m.; Court Whist, 1 p.m.; Enhance Fit- ness classes start at 2:30 p.m. • Tuesday, July 17: Quilt- ing, 9:30 a.m.; Euchre and 500, 1 p.m. • Wednesday, July 18: Lone Oak Rockers, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Birthday celebration, 10 a.m.; Volunteer Room host meeting, 11:15 a.m. • Thursday, July 19: 55 Alive, 9 a.m.; News and Views, 10 a.m.; Bridge, 1 p.m.; Book Club #5, 7 p.m. • Friday, July 20: Bingo, 1 p.m. Travel opportunities Take an adventure this year with Eagan Parks and Recreation and Sunshine Travel. Trip opportunities include a four -day Heart of America trip in Kansas City in September, a ten-day Sep- tember Amtrak/motorcoach Parks and Recreation wants to hear from you! Please call us at 651-675-5500 and share your ideas and thoughts. Party-n-Potluck on the Patio Sunshine, food, games and entertainment are in abun- dance on Wednesday, July 25 at the Eagan Community Center. Seniors are asked to bring a dish to share and are rewarded with games, prizes and entertainment between 10:00 am and noon on the patio of the Lone Oak. No pre -registration necessary. Additional details are avail- able by contacting Eagan Parks and Recreation at 651- 675-5500. 5 5Alive Eagan Parks & Recre- ation is offering four hour refresher courses for 55 Alive on Thursday, July 19 or September 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Lone Oak Room of the Eagan Com- munity Center. An eight - hour course for first time participants is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, July 30 and 31. Successful partic- ipation will allow people to receive a discount on Min- nesota insurance rates. For more information, please visit www.cityofeagan.com or contact Eagan Parks and Recreation at 651-675-5500. Members' Ice Cream Social Are you an Annual Sus- taining member of the Ea- gan Seniors? If so, the Eagan Senior Program Advisory Board would like to reward you on Wednesday, August 22 in the Lone Oak Room with an ice cream social. En- joy ice cream, scooped up by the Board, starting at 3:30 pm. After everyone is full, the group will wander to the band shell for the Eagan MarketFest, with a farmer and artisan market, and en- tertainment by Kurt Jorgen- son. Not a member? Sign up today! Membership forms are located in the Lone Oak Room of the Eagan Com- munity Center. No pre -reg- istration is necessary. Ad- ditional details are available by contacting Eagan Parks and Recreation at 651-675- 5500. News and Views Share and hear the latest news and views in the Lone Carriage Hills case goes back to district court State Supreme Court leaves it up to lower court to decide whether housing should be allowed on Eagan golf course by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Minnesota Supreme Court has now weighed in on the issue, but the question of whether housing can be built on Carriage Hills golf course remains. The court issued its opin- ion on the battle over the 120- acre golf course on Thursday, essentially sending it back to the district court to come up with a ruling. The Supreme Court agreed that the city of Eagan had .1 rational basis for refusing to amend its comprehensive guide plan to allow housing on Carriage Hills. But it was not able to de- termine whether that denial constitutes a regulatory tak- ing of Carriage Hills owner Ray Rhan's property. "Specifically, there is a dispute as to whether contin- ued use di the property as a golf course is reasonable, and whether holding or selling the property for investment purposes is a reasonable use," the court wrote. See Carriage Hills, 9A ided-,_ 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY 4dr, LWB, Touring, 3.8L,$ J 6p9� 6-cyl, 35,286 mi. 13160 7 04 FORD TAURUS 4dr, Sedan, LS, 3.5L $11 6-cyl, 35,826 mi 13128 05 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA 4dr, Manual, 2.5L 5- $1 �+'9 cyl, 13,940 mi. 9eroga g 1-888-786-8622 Carriage Hills/from lA Rahn and housing de- veloper Wensmann Homes sued Eagan in 2004 for de- nying a land use change to allow 480 units of housing on the property. The property is currently guided for parks, open space and recreation. Rahn has maintained that he has lost hundreds of thousands of dollars because a golf course is no longer viable on that prop- erty. Critics, including local protest group the Carriage Hills Coalition, disagreed, and the city fought the de- velopment to protect the in- tegrity of its comprehensive guide plan. A district court ruling in 2005 ordered the city to allow housing on the golf course or buy the prop- erty through eminent do- main, but an appeals court reversed that decision last year. The case is now being sent back to the district court that ruled in favor of Rahn and Wensmann in a summary judgement. Christopher Penwell, at- torney for Rahn and Wens- mann, said his clients are very pleased that the case will be going back to dis- trict court. They think the Supreme Court's ruling con- tains language that supports their case, he said. "We believe that we'll be able to show the compre- hensive guide plan is not a viable use and that under the current guide plan, there is no other use that can be made of the property, at least nothing that has eco- nomic viability," he said. Penwell said that this case should send a notice to cities that the cost of pre- serving open space can't be bourne by property owners "without any benefit to that property owner." Eagan Mayor Mike Ma- guire said the city is pleased that the court "strongly" affirmed that cities have a right to plan their own com- munities, and also that the court found that Eagan had good reasons for making the decisions it did. "We understand that for neighbors and residents the legal roller coaster goes on as this case returns to the district court," he said. Maguire said he wants to assure residents that the city's 2008 Comprehensive Guide planning will contin- ue, and that the city will vig- orously defend its position. "We are confident, based on the facts of this case, that Eagan made solid and defensible decisions," he said. "Citizens need to ex- pect there will be further twists and turns as this case continues, however, and we ask all concerned to be pa- tient." The mayor's full state- ment, along with a copy of the Supreme Court's decision, can be found on the city's Web site at www. cityofeagan.com. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. /y zoo7 church at (952) 432-7197 or visit www.mvflc.org. Minnesota Valley Church is located at 16075 Hawthorn Path in Lakeville. Bloodmobile at Mary, Mother Mary, Mother of the Church will hold its annual blood drive from 1 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 17. Walk-ins are accepted, but only if there is an available ap- pointment time open. To sched- ule an appointment, call (952) 890-0045, ext. 236. The church is located at 3333 Cliff Road in Burnsville. Bassoon recital, silent auction St. James Lutheran Church, 3650 Williams Drive, Burns- ville, will host a 7 p.m. Wednes- day, July 18, bassoon quartet and silent auction to benefit Lutheran Volunteer Corps. The Midway Bassoon Quar- tet, consisting of four St. Olaf alumni, will perform a recital beginning at 7:30 p.m. and will be joined by guest _ bassoonist Norbert Nielubowski of the Minnesota Orchestra. The intermission will allow time to bid on auction items such as a round of golf, hand- made pottery and jewelry and homemade baked goods. All proceeds benefit the Lu- theran Volunteer Corps, which places full-time volunteers in social service agencies across 10 U.S. cities (including Minne- apolis and St. Paul) for a year of full-time service. 2007 • Fireworks d More! isty Love rmer members of Wonderland Aug 11 • 7-11 pm r Park, Burnsville ter Buttons in Advance! $5 at the gate ville Cub Foods, rnsville PDQ, Visitors Bureau 7/14.711727R.A Cascade Bay pools don't use suction, city says Eagan's water park features different filtration technology than pool where Edina girl was injured by drain by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Visitors to Eagan's Cascade Bay can rest assured that they are safe from accidents related to strong suction from pool drains like the recent one in- volving a 6-year-old Edina girl. On June 29, Abigail Taylor was in the kiddie pool at the Minneapolis Golf Club in St. Louis Park when she sat on the pool's drain and the suction from the circulation pump pulled out part of her lower intestine. She remains in serious condition at Children's Hospital in Minneapolis. Reports state that the pool's drain cover may have been missing. The pools at Cascade Bay do not use high-pressure suc- tion drains in their filtration system, said Cherryl Mesko, superintendent of operations for the Eagan Parks and Rec- reation Department. Instead, water is pumped into the pool and, as it rises, it simply spills over the edge of the pool into overflow grates. See Pools, 9A off, /Y ZOO? 5dr, Sedan LT, 3.51.6cyL,S 13 925 18,443 mi. 9e166A1 05 FORD MUSTANG 2dr, Deluxe, 4.0L 6cyl,$ 4 12,274 mi.96025A 02 MAZDA MPV ES 4dr. 3.01, 6-cyl, 5-Spd. WT. $11 925 42.033 mI. 94334A 9 4dr, Sedan. SXT, 2.7L $1 2 925 6 Cd. Hose y7fw7 2dr, CI 4WD, wwwnr.DodgeofBurnsvil Pools/from lA "That's part of how we keep the water clean," she said. "Impurities in the water come to the surface, and this just skims it off the top." The pool at the Minne- apolis Golf Club was likely older, she said, and the tech- nology had changed by the time Cascade Bay was built in 1999. "They have improved things drastically over the years," she said. W'aylor is not the only child to have been injured by the suction from pool drains in recent history. According to a 2005 report released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, at least two other children were dis- emboweled after sitting on pool drains between 1990 and 2004. Thirteen people died in similar accidents during that same period. Their deaths were the result of drowning after their bodies or limbs were held against the drain by the strong suction of the circulation pump. Mesko encourages con- cerned parents to talk to Cascade Bay staff about the technology used in its pools. "It's always good to ask the question because you can never be too safe," she said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Re/fqbn United Methodist Church, 14770 Canada Ave. W. Cost is $65 per child and includes choice of one activity (basketball, soccer, dance or art), several zany sideshows, bi- ble stories, videos, T-shirt, and snacks. For registration info, contact Karen Klekner at k klekner@rosemountumc.org or (651) 423-2475. Military Family Support Group Mary, Mother of the Elizabeth Inrig, former Na- tional Women's Ministries di- rector for the Evangelical Free Church of America, will help attendees understand the won- derful and unique ways God has equipped us for service. The conference includes general sessions with Inrig, large group praise and worship times and an array of relevant workshops. There will be an abundance of fellowship and a time to share some delicious meals together. For more information and to register visit www.ssefc.org. FJLce CJap/L �4 Zp7 Woodland Eleme taryo School is vandalized Fifty windows were smashed around the school early Wednesday by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Vandals struck Woodland Elementary School in Eagan early Wednesday morning, smashing 44 double -pane windows and six glass doors, causing thousands of dollars in damage. Police are seeking any in- formation on who may have caused the damage, which extended around the entire perimeter of the school build- ing. "It looks like they used rocks from around the land- scaping" to smash the win- dows, said Deputy Chief Jeff Johnson of the Eagan Police Department. It doesn't appear that any- ne entered the building, po- ce said. There was no damage to the inside of the school and nothing seems to have been taken. "From our perspective, the good news is there wasn't fur - Photos hr Erin Johnson Crews picked up glass and boarded up windows on Wednesday afternoon after vandals broke windows around the perimeter of the school. ther damage," said Tony Tas- chner, communication special- ist for School District 196. The vandals could have got- ten inside the school and dam- aged expensive equipment and technology, he said, butthe damage seems to be contained to the exterior windows. The damage was discovered See Vandals, 8A '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & tic. = '175 '0 down, + 1' Payment & tic. ='196 Auto, V6, Air Conditioning. CO Player. Bucket Seats. Power Seat, Rear Seat 0% Q.97,000 AVAILVIBLE MSRP $22,0 i LIAA! Rebate-$4,00000 Di scount..............$Z I iz000 down, plus t^payment &aa.=219 $•1 MI999 '0 down, plus 1" payment & lic. ='279 Air Conditioning with Chill Zone Storage, Auto. CD Player. Tilt 60/40 Split Rear Seat MSRP $16,585 Rebate -S500 Discount -$790 '2.000 down, Plue 1^ Payment & Ilc. ='tee $„ 1Js 295 40 dawn, plus 1' payment & tic. ='245 —�� 'tease payments plus toe, Ik, 1 P payment dor. lee. No Security Deposit required. 05 CHEV EQUINOX MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,000 Discount-$3,610 07 Ram 1500 Quill Ea M MORN MILNE GROUP -Zie 5.7 Hemi with MDSAmproved Fuel, Auto, Air, CD Player, Fogs, Slider, Power (Seat, Locks, Mirrors, Windows), Trailer Tow Grow 1-Year SIRIUS #98128 '0 down, + 1" Payment & tic. ='337 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & tic.. '259 Power Sunroof & Boston Acoustic Sound, NC. Auto, DOHC-24 Valve. Power (Windows, Locks, Minors), CD Player. Power Seat. A tilock-ESP LEASE FOR '2,000 down, plus 1„ payment & tic. = '238 '0 down, + 1" Payment & tic. ='315 Power Sunroof -Awesome Carl, Air, Autu ;tick, CD Player. Alum. Wheels. Power (wxtdows, Locks, Seat Mirrors), Antilodk ESP. Fog Lamps, AJI Speed Traction MSRP $28,805 Discount -$1,500 Rebate -$3.306 All Conditioning, CD P 2,000 dorm, plus 1' p '0 down, plus 1' pay Auto, Air Conditioni 2,000 M.%Pio on owns loyalty must own or be leasing a Chrysler, Jeep, or Dodge. Minivan Sole price for resident of Minnesota and select roumies of Wisconsin, low., N.D., and S.D. on (ongwst lease must currently be leasing a salirll et eew MSRP S25,920 Rebate-$2,000 Discount -$2.000 2n plus 1. payment & =' $41,1j,92O 04 CHEVY MALIBU 06 CHEVY MALIBU MAXX 06 DODGE STRATUS •s Vandals/from 1 A by a school staff member around 6:30 a.m. July 11 when he arrived to open the build- ing. "It's just kind of a very childish thing to do," Johnson said. "They don't realize who's going to pay for the damage to this school. It's going to be the community members of the city and the school district." Taschner said this level of damage is unusual for schools in the district. "I don't think there has been anything as significant as this in my memory, and I've been with the district for 10 years," he said. "I know we deal with graffiti, for example, but nothing to the extent of breaking windows and this kind of damage." The school does have two surveillance cameras, includ- ing one that's pointed directly at the entrance of the school, but "neither one of them picked anything up," Taschner said. Taschner said it will cost between $15,000 and $20,000 to fix the windows. The district will have to pay up to $10,000, and insurance should pay for the rest, he said. "Obviously this kind of hurts the feelings of the folks who call this school home — the students and the parents and the staff," he said. "I think that's probably the biggest damage that was done here." Summer classes were still held on Wednesday morn- ing and will continue as usual throughout the week, he said. Jacob Zuzek, who will be a second -grader at Woodland Elementary this fall, came to play on school , grounds on Wednesday afternoon when he saw the damage. "I don't feel very good about it," he said. Zuzek was with a group of boys on their bikes, all of whom were surveying the scene as crews cleaned up bro- ken glass and boarded up the broken windows. "I went here for six years. I think it's very sad that some- one would do that," said for- mer Woodland student Bran- don Vuong, 13. Bobby Rukavina, 12, lives across the street from the school. "We just came here to play and we saw all the windows broken," he said. "It's really kind of sad. Who would really do something like that?" Police said they don't have any leads at this point and are not sure if they will recover any fingerprints. Some neighbors said they heard what could have been glass shattering, but they didn't realize what it was at the time and didn't call police, Johnson said. At 8 p.m. on Wednesday, the Eagan Police Department sent an automated phone call to the surrounding neighbor- hood using the city's emer- gency telephone notification system. Police are asking if anyone in the area heard or saw anything suspicious between 2 and 5 a.m. on Wednesday. "If anybody in the neigh- borhood or in the commu- nity hears anything they think might help us, give us a call," Johnson said. The Eagan Citizens Crime Prevention Association is of- fering up to a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects responsible for the vandalism. In the meantime, police will be stepping up patrols around all of Eagan schools over the next few nights, Johnson said. The Eagan Police Depart- ment can be reached at (651) 675-5700. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. i and semester of the 2OO607 school year have been an- nounced by Principal Kay Joyce. Grade 10 Sadiq Ahmed, Scott Ajax, Laurel Al- lison, Nicholas Amell, Arielle Anderson, Wes Anderson, Margaret Ault, Corey Babcock, Ashley Bane, Emilie Benick, Erika Bocklund, Kelsey Bocklund, Laura Bogenschutz, Travis Bridenstine, Re- bekah Brown, Linda Bui, Lauren Butler, Johnny Campos, Megan Caspers, Miguel Charwood, Alexandria Cloutier, Alexan- der Cole, Joseph Connelly, Alyssa Craig, Jacob Dahl, Vida Dam, Sarah Daniels, Christopher Depauw, Peter Dipo-Ajayi, Lauren Ehlers, Kate Evenson, Lara Far- hat, Allison Flickinger, Cheryl Fuller, Samantha Griffiths, Rebekah Gudim, Christian Haas, Joshua Haider, Tyler Hanson, Kelsey Harris, Karlyn Harrod, Allison Heck, Christina Heinzen, Jamie Henderson, Erica Hett, Gretchen Huh- nerkoch, Jennifer Huus, Jennifer Jackson, Melynda Jensen, Cassie Johnson, Hannah Johnson, Lucas Johnson, Madison John- son, Daniel Kambeitz, Alexander Kern, Andrew Kessler, Anna Kim, Elizabeth Klebenow, Ashley Kolstad, Leah Kolstad, Sarah Korthauer, Anna Koski, Brendan Kurvers, Rachel Lacount, Joseph Lane, Kara Laudon, Meng Lean, Marissa Lee, Jacob Lehnen, Lesley Locken, Larissa Luhring, Tyler Magee, Emma Martin, Ra- chel Matychuk, Patrick McCann, Aish- warya Menon, Lauren Miller, Melissa Mogan, Anna Nadon, Andrew Narvesen, Lisa Newberger, Kunthea Ngov, Kunthy Ngov, Alison Oatley, Zachary O'Connor, Harrison Okan, Andrea Okonek, Linsey Peterson, Natalie Peterson, Jessica Pivec, Molly Prairie, Brian Pricco, Nima Rafiei, Ana Ramos, MelodyRezaie, Jared Rich- ards, Halley Robb, Michael Rugnetta, Blake Rypkema, Brian Sabalaskey, Nata- lie Samb, Andrew Sampson, Linzey Sar- real, Aaron Seering, Derek Siegel, Bradley Simon, Sarah Smith, Beatrice Soderholm, Nan Soun, Jamie Stockwell, Philip Stubbs, Alyxandra Teske, Katie Thell, Renee Ther- rien, Ann Thomford, Kristi Thompson, Maria Tinebra, Anh Tran, Kevin Um, Thomas Vandenboom, Matthew Walker, Alexander Wheeler, Jessica Wilson, Yosef Zenebe. Grade 11 Elizabeth Abraha, Sameena Ahmed, Dalton Anderson, David Bain, Mitchell Beers -Sierra, Craig Belisle, Allison Ber- quist, Morgan Bestenlehner, Toni Birr, Kaela Blenkush, Nyles Breecher, Jenni- fer Bruce, Jayme Busch, Lauren Buxton, Erin Claire, John Clifford, Brandi Coulter, Trac Dang, Michael Deaven, Lisa Denni, Megan Duehn, Nathaniel Durand, Ja- cob Eide, Nathaniel Eisenbeis, Grace Fechner, Kelly Fowler, Amber Gainor, Ahmed Gobana, Sean Grand, William Gubash, Michael Gulden, Kristin Hall, Zachary Harazin, Jonathan Hardegger, Ronya Hassan, Danielle Helgeson, Jeremy Helle, Ryan Hepp, Troy Hollister, Jabari Holloway, Megan Holm, Justin Howard, Kaylin Hreha, Brady Huemann, Jessica Hulke, Andrew Jackson, Brian Jahnke, Reid Jessen, Rachel Johnson, Sarah John- son, Kayla Kipp, Jesse Klein, Kristian Knutson, Jessica Kowalsky, Ryan Krebs, Brian Laqua, Melanie Laursen, Meagan Laxen, Tien Le, Megan Letich, Andrew Lewis, Amy Lindblad, Thor Lyng, Amy Maas, Daniel Malinin, Kelsey Marcks, tthews, Jacob Maxon, Allison oss, Michelle Salmo, Alecia Sames, Matthew Scheele, Ashley Scheer, Nicho- las Schraer, Rebecca Sebesta, Adrienne Sherman, Lindsay Smith, Kelly Solinger, Jacqueline Sorensen, Kayla Stevens, Ni- cole Stolhanske, Rachel Thompson, Alli Treimer, Emily Trenholm, Kellee Truong, Robb Tushie-Lessard, Christopher Unger, Max Vanordstrand, Claire Weiss, Andrea Wheeler, Sara Wheeler, Dana Wible, Yaq- ian Zhang. Grade 12 Rachel Algren, Annica Alwine, Holly Anderson, Jessica Annoni, Michele At- kins, Kimberly Ayres, Mark Bader, Ingrid Bakke, Amanda Becker, Derek Bliss, Ja- cob Burns, Krista Burns, Erica Carlson, Alexandra Chandler, Alexandre Chris- tensen, Katie Cummings, Jennifer Dean, Lee Desmarasi, Danielle Dove, Patrick Duffy, Samantha Ebertowski, Jill Eide, Bryce Ellesfon, Ashley Erickson, Kirstyn Fesenmaier, Rachel Foss, James Fredrick- son, Andrea Gadde, Lucas Gage, Zainab Gamadid, Ashlee Green, Kelsey Gries, Derek Grygiel, Maximiliano Guerrero, Krystal Halford, Rachel Hansen, Alex- ander Hanson, Luke Hellquist, Danielle Herdegen, James Holler, Bryan Huberty, Daniel Iacono, Andrea Jensen, Jenna Johnson, Jennifer Johnson, Jessica John- son, Ashton Joseph, Meghan Juntunen, Vanessa Kemp, Jennifer Kieffaber, Kath- erine Killam, Victoria Kononov, Kerry Kraemer, David Kukacka, Caitlin Lacha- pelle-Gustafson, Melissa Larson, Nicho- las Laursen, Shayla Lomenda, Michael Lough, Kelly Maas, Samantha Madsen, Lori Marko, Jeffrey Marquardt, Steven Marquardt, Erin McGinnis, Carly Mc- Guire, Mari Mills, Kate Monson, Lindsey Mortinson, Amy Nelsen, Brian Nelson, Brandon Newberger, Jordan Nguyen, Kelly Nguyen, Tien Nguyen, Benjamin Oatley, Mikki O'Leary, Brittanie Peter- son, Timothy Pfaff, Larry Phanthavong, Scott Photijak, Michelle Piekarski, Jiethyl Piersak, Matthew Pivec, Daniel Plant- enberg, Brice Pollock, Briana Rausch, Candice Reddy, Anne Rice, Abby Rit- tenhouse, Benjamin Ronnei, Benjamin Rosenstein, Jacquelyn Ryberg, Tara Ry- der, Carter Sackett, Anna Sahli, Gaura Saini, Rose Sauve, Michelle Sawyer, Heidi Schmidt, Joseph Sherin, Leslie Sink, Phil- ip Solyntjes, Catherine Stalock, Kristen Sticha, Mark Stockhowe, Gretchen Stroh, Melanie Teachout, Michelle Teigland, Elise Todora, Anja Trachsel, Brittany Tre- nary, Maria Vejdani, Alicia Vitali, Kath- ryn Vossen, Jessica Wagner, Nicole Wahl, Amanda Walker, Andrew Walker, Holly Weberg, Sarah Wenner, Jennifer Wilkes, Mark Wisted, Jordan Wong. e ll vi ed la fi K e la la G di m K O L S JULY 14, 2007 VOLUME 28, NO. 20 www.thisweek-online.com Woman charged in prostitution ring Eagan woman allegedly recruited local minors by John Gessner THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A 19-year-old Eagan woman allegedly recruit- ed area high school girls to work as prostitutes at a rented Burnsville town - home and at the Burnsville hotel where she worked. Justine Alex Reisdorf was charged in U.S. District Court last month with sex trafficking of a minor. According to the criminal complaint, Eagan police be- gan investigating Reisdorf in December 2006 after getting a tip that she was running a prostitution ring employ- ing female students in local schools. She advertised the services on the Craigslist Web site. In February, Eagan police officer Kurt Bratulich inter- viewed a District 196 student who said Reisdorf had oper- ated a house of prostitution in November and Decem- ber at a townhouse on the 2100 block of 117th Street in Burnsville. The student said Reisdorf advertised both adult and juvenile prostitu- tion services on Craigslist. In March, another minor girl was interviewed and ad- mitted to being employed as a prostitute by Reisdorf. The girl said a Craigslist adver- tisement displayed photos of her body. In June, another girl told Bratulich that Reisdorf re- cruited minors as prostitutes. The girl was "known to as- sociate with Reisdorf as well as other juvenile prostitutes" who worked for her. Eagan police executed a search warrant on the town- house in December. Reisdorf was in the process of moving out, but "items indicative of prostitution were seized," in- cluding condoms and papers with names and phone' num- bers. A Craigslist advertisement See Prostitution, 8A 2A July 14, 2007 THISWEEK Power Doors, Power Seat, Power Wind/Locks/Mirrors, Quad Seats - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Wheels, Sunscreen, AntiLock/Traction Control, Roof Rack 07 Grand Caravan Sir Special Edition ALL THE FEATURES OF THE SXT PLUS Leather Seats - Heated Seats, Power Littgate. Rear Seat Video, Wireless Headphones, Infinity Speakers. Power Driver & Pass. Seat, 3-Zone Temp Control, In -Dash 6-Disc CD/DVD/MP3 Prostitution/from 1 A isted by Reisdorf included a phone number that was sub- scribed to "Deja A. McDone" — Reisdorf's alias — at the Burnsville townhome. That number was linked to a "con- tact" phone number in Ea- gan belonging to Reisdorf's mother. Police learned in June that Reisdorf worked at the Hampton Inn, 14400 Nicollet Court, Burnsville. Bratulich said she used her job to "ob- tain hotel rooms for purposes of prostitution." To avoid police detection, she no longer exclusively ad- vertised on Craigslist. She used a telephone chat line called Live Links to bring prostitution customers to the hotel. John Gessner is at burnsville. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Burnsville High School announces 'A' honor roll Burnsville High School students named to the "A" honor roll during the sec- Phandanouvong, Melissa Pierce, Jennifer Priebe, Sona Psarska, Taylor Reff, Shan- non Reger, Geena Richard, Michelle Riveros, Cassandra Roberts, Jac uelg ine L Eagan named 'Fit City' Governor recognizes city for maintaining, supporting active living by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS With its miles of walk- ing and biking trails, parks, fields, and countless rec- reational opportunities, it seems only natural that Ea- gan would be a Fit City. But it has now been offi- cially recognized as such by Gov. Tim Pawlenty. The state's Fit City des- ignation honors cities that create and maintain environ- ments supportive of active living. Glenn Wilson from the Department of Commerce, who is also on the Gover- nor's Health Care Cabinet, presented a Fit City plaque to the city council on Tues- day. Eagan is one of nine Min- nesota cities to receive the Fit City designation this year. Cities must meet certain criteria to get the designa- tion, such as maintaining and developing recreation ar- eas, parks, and playgrounds; maintaining at least one in- door facility available for cold -season activity; and building community aware- ness about locations and ser- vices dedicated to fitness and physical activity. The Governor's Health Care Cabinet started the pro- gram a few years ago to en- courage people to get fit and reduce health care costs, Wil- Photo be Erin Johnson From left: Eagan Communicy Center Fitness Coordinator Marshall Grange, Mayor Mike Maguire, and Parks and Recreation Director Julie Seydell Johnson accept a plaque designating Eagan as a Fit City from Glenn Wilson of the Department of Commerce at Tuesday's City Council meeting. Joining the Fit City pro- gram makes a community "healthier, happier, and as a former developer, I also know that it adds value to the community overall," he said. Wilson praised the coun- cil for providing leadership to the community in commit- ting itself to the development of resources necessary to be- come a Fit City. The council adopted a res- olution in February affirm- ing activity friendly commit- ments. Mayor Mike Maguire said the award is a great credit to Julie Seydell Johnson, who has been Eagan's Parks and Recreation Director for the past two years. "It isn't all about Parks and Rec," Johnson said, "it has to do with our overall trail systems, the opportuni- ties we have both inside and outside for fitness activities, the number of programs, just the general support for well- ness in our community." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. tication 1 announces 'A' honor roll Megan Elsenheimer, Alicia Everson, Jeffrey Finnegan, Benjamin Finstad, Kelly Fischer, Jeffrey FitzPatrick, Cody Foster, Meredyth Fredericksen, Madeline Garner, Danielle Gartner, Taylor Gerr, Anthony Giancana, Shayna Gilbert, Allison Gleason, Jes- sica Gokhberg, Emily Goshey, Kaitlin Graff, Michael Greenberg, Abigail Guetzlaff, Mitchell Higgins, Rob- ert Homan, Kevin Horton, Rachael Hunter, Benita Jin, Amanda John- son, Claire Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Christopher Jungmann, Sarah Junod, Christopher Jurek, Joshua Justin, An- drew Kasper, Christopher Kauffeld, Melinda Kawalek, Lynzee Keiner, Kelsey Kennedy, Joshua Kim, Kris- tin Kluegel, Britta Krueger, Brittany Kruse, Kathleen LaMotte, Michelle Lange, Maria Lasusa, Sarah Lep- ley, Ji (Joanna) Liu, Hanna Lynch, Valerie Marchenko, Janet Marx, Su- zanna Massaro, Sameep Mehrotra, Jordyn Michaud, Sarthak Mishra, John Moller, Abby Montgomery, Cynthia Moss, Megan Mott, Scott Mustonen, Abby Nelson, Alexandra Newhall, Amanda Nichols, Claire Olson, Stephanie Orfei, Kjellrun Owens, Joshua Papacek, Anne Pat- terson, Ashley Peltier, Jacob Peters, Tara Peterson, Maliah Petty, Trinda Phelon, Amanda Pierson, Mara Plif- ka, Ryan Potocnik, Andrea Punch, Landon Ramsey, Lucas Rasmussen, Samuel Reimann, Megan Reinec- cius, Bailey Ringold, Jennifer Sablak, Nicholas Sachs, Stephanie Same, Erik Schaumann, Annie Schmidt, Samuel Schraber, Anastasia Schriber, Nicho- las Schuetz, Andrew Scipioni, Stephen Seaberg, Hannah Seehafer, Taylor Seline, Kaila Severson, Jessica Shor, Karen Sjoberg, Laura Stevens, Luke Thaldorf, Joseph Thomas, Amanda Tutora, Adam Twedt, Omar Usmani, Michelle Vacinek, Christopher Van- dergriff, Larissa Veres, Marjorie Volk, Zachary VonEschen, Alexandria Anderson, Richard Anfinsen, Ryan Baumgartner, Leah Beekman, Nathan Berkopec, Ruth Bisek, Madeline Blas- berg, Nancy Blum, Emily Bodeker, Alexandra Bohlig, Carly Boos, Chelsy Braun, Aaron Bray, Lynn Cady, Mat- thew Carchedi, Erick Carlson, Aman- da Chapman, Claire Chappuis, Isaac Coleman, Laura Collar, Morgan Col- lins, Hannah Comer, Kelsey Conlan, Deidre Conocchioli, Jamie Cork, Lau- ra Dauchy, Samantha Dolan, Taylor Drenttel, Courtney Duchene, Hannah Dunn, Amanda Eisen, David Engler, Ellen Evrard, Bethany Foster, Aaron Freedman, Marisa Gage, Meghan Galloway, Madelyn Gardner, Rich- ard Gauthier, Mollie Gebhart, Sarah Gliva, Elizabeth Glomski, Zi Gong, Lisa Gorman, Allison Gothmann, Jill Guenther, Erin Guggenberger, Ellie Hackenmiller, Kathryn Haglind, Amy Harren, Jenna Hofflander, Katelyn Hofstad, Adrea Holler, Jake Housley, Hillary Jameson, Connor Jendro, Jef- frey Johnsen, Alicia Johnson, Lauren Johnson, Kathryn Joyce, Leah Junker, Michael Jurgens, Bonnie Kemp, Brian Kennedy, Christina King, Nicho- las Kolhoff, Jacob Kyro, Lukas Lee, Tyler Lindwall, Samantha Linnell, Carissa Loehr, Siri Lokensgard, An- dres Lopez-Pineda, Evan Lowder, Nicole Lunde, Teija Madhusoodan- an, Kelly Magnus, Ross Marostica, Chelsey Martin, Matthew Mason, Meghan Mccann, Kelly Mcdermott, Joseph Mcgrail, Mark Mckeag, Alli- son Mickelson, Mikayla Miller, Sean Miller, Erin Miska, Jennifer Miu, Paul Moench, Courtney Morse, Erik Mosvick, Brent Myren, Michael Ney, Justine Noyes, Caitlin Ogawa, Megan Ohly, Alexander Olsen, Sara Palluck, Travis Panneck, Sara Permann, An- drea Petersen, Phillip Peterson, Kris- tina Pivec, Catherine Rawlins, Audrey Rehwaldt, Meredith Reinhardt, Lau- ren Renneke, Harry (Mike) Reynolds, J ff v maefer, Jenna Scha• kai_i. Joseph Whitson, Andrea Willems, Lauren Williams, Allyson Winter, Paul Witt, Kyle Zibrowski. Grade 12: Rachel Aburime, Ashley Amdahl, Matthew Amdahl, Jennifer Anderson, John Anderson, Nathaniel Anderson, Tait Anderson, Jonathan Backman, Bridget Baron, Michelle Bartholet, Kaitlin Bauer, Laura Ben- son, Karl Berger, Sarah Blair, Kari Bloomquist, Jordan Bonstrom, Sarah Bougie, Jacqueline Braemer, Sadie Buecksler, Samantha Burdick, Jacob Burns, Michael Busch, Johnathan Cady, Allyson Carlson, Rebecca Carl- son, Jaimie Carpenter, Michael Cas- sidy, Arielle Clarin, Carter Cusack, Soraya Dangor, Bao Dao, Ashley Da- vis, Ashley Depover, Hannah Dreas, Lauren Dubbels, Laura Duholm, Vic- toria Dutcher, Andrea Everling, Kyle Finke, Anna Finley, Alex Finnegan, Andrew Fitzpatrick, Allyson Gage, Alexander Griffin, Arthur Gryczman, Jakob Guanzon, Anne Gullickson, Matthew Hanson, Jennifer Hedeman, Charles Hersman, Laura Hoeft, Ryan Horton, Bailey Huebner, Elizabeth Humbert, Elise Jaeger, Sarah Katz, Ross Kees, Kristen Kiemele, Nina Kirchstein, Megan Kogut, Martha Krall, Tyler Kraska, Kaylee Krypel, Jacqueline Lage, Ariel Lamb, Ari- ella Lebowitz, Kimberly Lee, Nicole Lenway, Megan Lineer, Kathryn Link, Samuel Lokensgard, Kate- lyn Lutovsky, Austin Lynch, Laura Maki, Anne Marascuilo, Alexander Marchenko, Rebecca Mazanec, Kris- tin Merchant, Lucy Mereness, Chris- topher Midtling, Lindsey Mittendorf, Kirsteti Moller, Amanda .Murr, Jes- sica Nelson, Gregory Nygren, Alison Ohlund, Abigail 011werther, Angela Olson, Timothy Olson, Brianna Os- born, Erin Oxborough, Holly Pe- terson, Laura Peterson, Tabitha Pe- terson, Brian Phelps, Lindsay Pruis, Meggan Ranheim, Emil Rein. APPLE VALLEY BURNSVILLE EAGAN FA MINNEAPOLIS TERRORISM EAGAN City asked to save cafe slated for buyout Eminent domain authorized if deals fail with final holdouts in Cedarvale redevelopment BY FREDERICK MELO Pioneer Press Dozens of residents crammed the aisles and overflow hearing rooms of Eagan City Hall on Tuesday night to voice concern about a redevelopment project slated for the Cedar - vale neighborhood. The city is still negotiating buyouts and relocation fees with the owners of about 20 commercial properties surround- ing the Cedarvale Mall, but it authorized the use of eminent domain to acquire holdouts. A long line of business owners and home- owners repeated a theme throughout the hearing: Removing the 28-year-old Mediter- ranean Cruise Cafe would be a loss to the community and the family that runs it. "To take this away from us is taking every- thing away from us," said 21-year-old Rana Ansari, daughter of cafe owner Jamal Ansari, to applause. "This is what started our life in America." Jamal Ansari said the city has offered him $480,000 to $525,000 for his acre; his appraiser valued the land, equipment and 3,000 square feet of restaurant, which seats more than 100 customers, at more than $1 million. "If I had to re-create what I had now, in another part of Eagan, it would cost me a min- imum of $1.5 million," Jamal Ansari said in a phone interview. Jon Hohenstein, community -development director, acknowledged the gap between appraisal estimates and said the city would work with the restaurant in an attempt to keep it in Eagan. "I think there's a general perception ... that the city purposely asked its appraiser to low - ball and come in with low estimates," Hohen- stein said. "And that's clearly not the case. We EAGAN DEVELOPMENT, 2B IONEER PRESS WWW.TWINCITIES.COM chool audit ing the spon- y must post a e restraining out. the Dakota resided over y, wrote that appropriate the Depart - suffer lit- g the short g can be y 26 hearing emy, Cross- partment of Education. Faith Crump, the school's for- mer executive director and cur- rent business manager, and her husband, Harry Crump, a Hen- nepin County district judge, founded the sixth-to-l2th-grade school of about 100 students. "It's our position that we ter- minated the sponsorship," said Scott Hoss, an attorney repre- senting Crossroads College. "We wish them the best going forward." Bao Ong can be reached at bong@pioneerpress.com or 651.228-5435. d cost $40M Roads 169 rij enic overlook k-in campsites uth Camp oup camping atercraft camping Most -visited state parks 2006 Tettegouche Lake Vermilion Itasca Gooseberry Falls MINNESOTA Fort Snelling 0 Interstate PIONEER PRESS ing for about $2,000 per front foot. ilion, the demand is that high." unty assessor decade. Pawlenty e park pro - would set land for a en he made neither the to officials potential ting ongo- the gover- nor did acknowledge that the proposal, which needs legisla- tive approval, could cost tens of millions of dollars. State Sen. Tom Bakk, DFL- Cook, who represents the area and supports the proposal, was a bit more specific. "Upward of $50 million to buy the land and for develop- ment costs," he predicted. Eagan development (continued from Page IB) don't give directions of any kind." Council members also raised the possibility of talking with the developer on behalf of busi- nesses that add diversity to the area, perhaps saving them from having to move. Through negotiations, the CONTINUED city has acquired the mall and three -fourths of the land it requires for the Cedar Grove project, which promises a mix of retail, offices and housing for various income levels. On Tues- day, the City Council approved the latest acquisition — a Chi- nese restaurant, the House of Wing, at 4030 Cedarvale Drive. But with the owners of Lar- son Auto Repair, Colonial Car Wash and the cafe among the fmal holdouts, the council voted unanimously to authorize going to court for eminent domain FROM PAGE 1B proceedings if discussions don't progress. The court filings would take place by the fall. The Cedarvale Shopping Center has been in decline since the early 1980s, following the relocation of Minnesota 13 and Cedar Avenue. In the early 1990s, business owners approached the city about study- ing ways to revitalize the area. A task force later envisioned a major redevelopment, which has moved forward in stops and starts for years. Doran Development and Pratt Homes was chosen last week as the new master devel- oper, although specific plans have not been finalized for the long -delayed "gateway corri- dor." A development agreement with Schafer Richardson for a $250 million project crumbled last year amid the company's concerns about the condomini- um market. Frederick Melo can be reached at fmelo@pioneerpress.com or 651-228-2172. w at she can to cooperate," Strub he said. "She has absolutely no prior arrest; she's a single parent, doesn't have a lot of money, and she's very concerned about the well-being of her children." According to the criminal complaint, the shaking occurred April 25, when Strub called 911 to help her 6-month-old nephew, whom she'd been baby-sitting. Paramedics found the boy lying on a blanket on a kitchen table, semiconscious, the complaint stated. His right arm was shaking, and his left eye was tilting to one side. INFANT HURT, 8B lanes of Interstate 35E, just south of the I-35 split, late Wednesday morn- ing. The man, 72, was in critical con- dition Wednesday evening. A crash Tuesday disrupted traffic in the same area of I-35. Meanwhile late Wednes- day morning, a semitrailer that rolled over on westbound Interstate 694, near I-35E, closed the freeway for more than two hours. NIL JOINS • SUN NEWSPAPERS Cool, clean fun -1Ate 16.1 Area youth beat the heat July 20 at the Cascade Water Park in Eagan. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) !nen docked m Port Louis, Imall island off the coast of 'hen it was off to Asia, visit- nam, China and Japan. ited villages, handicapped rphanages. lg with the local people r the best experience," she 13 uyco's favorite stop, even id some of the other stu- lo Fares Lake Street/Midtown Light Rail Station �O t aii three fairs each stop. said. "I spoke to a lot of the locals and I felt like I really got to experience the culture." In India, Buyco visited Mumbai, New Delhi and Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. In India, Buyco said she noticed the disparity between the wealthy and the poor. Something particularly touching was when she passed out toothbrushes to children in India. Visits to Kobe, Japan, and Honolulu rounded out the voyage. ed in studying abroad to look into Semester at Sea. "For sure do it," she said. "Literally going around the world on a cruise ship may actually seem bizarre when you think about it, but it's amazing." (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- c u rren tso uth@acnpapers.com.) Rock Chip ? A aiision or Apple Valley Fbra, Apple Ford Shakopee & Apple Ford Lakevi 'Jeafer`shxp q aty service with a 12k/12mo. warranty. OEM.giass avallabte. e accept all insurande rates. CRACKED WINDSH ple Glass Any Make Mode( Any Gras We offer directinsurance billing, 3 locations and FREE mobile servi Eagan City Council authorizes use of eminent domain Customers show up to support businesses in Cedar Grove district GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS A crowd of Eagan residents let a couple of business owners know how much they appreciate their work July 17 at the Eagan City Council meeting. The council listened to residents for over two hours before approving the use of eminent domain in the Cedar Grove redevelopment district. Many spoke in support of Mediterranean Cruise Cafe and Larson's Auto Repair. "I have nothing to do with these businesses, except that I utilize them," said Mike Gabriel, who lives near the area slotted for redevelopment. "These people here stand behind their work, and I think they're concerned about people in the neighborhood." The city has acquired about 80 percent of property in the 70-acre district near the intersection of Highways 13 and 77 and has stated a desire to negotiate agreements with the remaining property owners with- out having to go through eminent domain proceedings. However, the city's deadline to use eminent domain to acquire the properties is July 22, 2008. "Tonight, we've heard there's a lot of support for existing businesses in Cedar Grove," Councilmember Meg Tilley said before voting on the issue. "We still can negotiate and continue to talk during this process." Tilley said she did not oppose working with the Doran -Pratt redevelopment team — which recently was COUNCIL: TO PAGE 20A o , 21111u, Dllc Dale. 'Lc waD 1111e a 1..C1C1.)L 1- ty on the ship, everyone would want to meet with him and eat lunch with him." Buyco remembers how, one day, she was quickly grabbing dinner and Tutu asked to join her. "He was just so amazing to talk to," she said. "It was definitely unexpected." The students docked during Brazil's Carnivale celebration, which included a parade and costume wearers. 111r J111p Mauritius, a Madagascar. ing India, Vie Buyco vis schools and "Just bei was probabl said. India was though she s Target Art Hop O Uptown Art Fair Three Fairs, I� Loring Park Art Festival Y Kar OWn fair Powderhorn Art Fair See them all on the Target Art Hop Ride in air-conditioned comfort on the Target Art Hop! Vis without traffic or parking hassles. Hosts will greet riders at Buses leave about every 20 minutes. Saturday, Aug. 4 10 a.m_ — 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 5 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. 1A42i In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Council FROM PAGE 1A chosen by the council to lead the redevelopment project — to see if existing businesses could be included in the project. As of now, the only businesses included in the redevelopment are Jensen's Supper Club and Cedarvale Lanes. "Eagan wants to be very spe- cial and nice," resident Linda Fosberg said in support of the cafe. "Well, part of that is hav- ing unique businesses." Resident Sam Hanna said he found another family at the cafe when he first came to America and didn't have many friends. "Twenty-eight years ago, when I was a student at the 'U,' a friend of mine pointed me toward the Mediterranean Cruise Cafe," said Hanna. "Twenty-eight years later, I live in Eagan, and my kids call [owner Jamal Al Ansari] 'uncle."' The cafe has been in busi- ness for 28 years. Margaret Schreiner, who chaired the task force that helped plan the development, said she hopes the city makes the necessary effort to relocate businesses within the city. "I don't think any of us anticipated that any of the businesses would be relocating to other communities," she said. Council members said they sympathized with business owners who are unwilling to move, but that it was necessary to go forward with the authori- zation of using eminent domain to continue with the project, which has been in the works since the early '90s. "I'm sensitive that redevel- opment of this nature can take a peoples' opportunities," Councilmember Paul Bakken said. "But it can also add new opportunities." "I think it's a credit to both businessmen that they have such a loyal customer base," Mayor Mike Maguire said of Cruise Cafe's Al Ansari and Jerry Larson, owner of Larson Auto Repair. Maguire said the support would follow the owners even if they move. "Your businesses are not your building," said Maguire, adding he was hopeful both could be worked into the plans or stay in business in Eagan. "I want to suggest that the opportunity is here to work with the city, as we always have," he said. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- cu rren tso u th @a cnpapers. cd51 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community COMMUNITY NOTES Nominate your garden Eagan and Burnsville residents interested in having their gardens included in the local Hidden Gardens tour, planned for July 2008, are invited to contact tour organizers. The tour is a fundraiser organized by Friends of Jim Carlson (DFL-38A), who represents parts of Burnsville and Eagan in the Minnesota Senate. The 2008 event will be the second local Hidden Gardens Tour; the first was in 2006. Interested parties are asked to e-mail hiddengardenstour@comcast.net, including their name, address, phone number, e-mail address and garden pho- tos if available. They will then be con- tacted by a member of the planning committee. Individuals are invited to join the vol- unteer planning committee as well. Volunteers will help select gardens; cre- ate flyers and promotional materials; assist the day of the tour and more. If interested, e-mail hiddengardens- tour@comcast.net. Tadpole Parade Will Hale and the Tadpole Parade will perform at the free Civic Center Concerts -Wednesday in the Park series 7 p.m. Aug. 1 at Burnsville's Civic Center Park. People bringing canned or nonperish- able food items to the concert will receive a free can of Pepsi or Mountain Dew rmmnlimantsnf the Pepsi Rottlinu and match them with y term mentoring relation Kids `n Kinship is mentoring program in for children ages 5-16 in tive role model. The prog ing list of 87 children wh ly mentor. An upcoming interested volunteers Thursday, Aug. 16 at Bur in Burnsville. Call 952-8' attendance, or go to ship.org for more inform Environmental The Flint Hill• Supplemental Environ Committee is seeking pr ronmental projects that environment in Dakota of $255,000 will be availa selected by a 12-member The Rosemount -base agreed in 1999 to fun e beneficial projects as p. ment between the co Minnesota Pollution C (MPCA). The committ: Flint Hills employees, M' ty and city officials and Interested parties sho per -proposal application, obtained by calling Sco MPCA at 651-296-7636 or at scott.parr@pc Applications must be s p.m. July 31. 14— G7—Z1-07 Fabulous fireworks `Twilight's Last Gleaming," an exhibit of fireworks pPhsubmitte hotooto photography rom Eagan and neighboring communities by photographer Mitch oehl, is on display through Aug. 13 at Dunn Bros Coffee, 15265 alaxie Ave., Suite 600, Apple Valley. 71.E„�+ ra��� the last 50 years In New Ynr Slip-slidin' away Photo by Rick Orndo,' Maggie Gelke, 9, of Eagan takes a ride in the slide at Cascade Bay on Thursday morning. Rebate -$4,000 7,000 down, plus 1" payment & Pc. = 719 '0 down, plus 1" payment & tic. = '279 Au Conditioning with Chill Zone Storage, Auto. CD Player. Tiff. 60/40 Split Rear Seat MSRP $16,585 Rebate -$500 Discount -$790 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment &tic.=ne $.4 �295 �'0 down, plus 1' payment & tic. = '245 ��77 <�V lease pcymenh plus isc, lip, 1st payment. doe fee. No Security Deposit requned. Minivan onme Rebate Discount '0 down, • 1 Payment & lic. = '337 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & tic. = '259 07 Charger' swami TO7 uouird NC, Auto. DOHC-24 Valve, Power wmoows tens Mnurse,CDPlayer Power Seat, Antilock-ESP MSRP $25,920 Rebate -$2,000 Discount-$2,000 '2,000 down, plus 1" pap, nt & Pc. = 779 $� '0 down, plus 1" payment & Ile. ='339 `+„11 loyo must own or be leasing o Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge. At/Own Sak prise for residents of Minnesoto and selen coon 04 CHEVY MALIBU cSeda8, 6S. 6-y$.111 6-c . 35.826 mi.. 12120 of V7sromin to 06 CHEVY MALIBU MAXX 05 FORD MUSTANG S8 • SOUTH • STAR TRIBUNE • WEDNESDAY, JULY 25, 2007 business development Eagan might seize land from 15 property owners Faced with a deadline to force the sale of land for economic development, the city will ,__ onsider using eminent domain against property owners near the Cedarvale Mall. By SARAH LEMAGIE ;+:« Slemagic@startribune.com .• amal Ansari opened the Med- iterranean Cruise Cafe in 1979, three years after he and his .^" brothers emigrated from Jerusalem. Twenty-eight years later, the :::: Eagan restaurant has a host of loyal :* customers who keep coming back - .404, �'� not only for the tabouli and hummus, ** but also because they know they'll o� > be welcomed by Ansari or someone ;4«% in his family. Three of his children :mow. work there part time, his wife helps • ;; *'; with the books and his 5-year-old son, *:' Ameer, pitches in with greeting. *4.4 "I taught that family how to wel- :*s° come people and how to make them feel at home," said Ansari, who start- * ;� ed the cafe when he was 20. The restaurant still sits at its orig- final location, near the old Cedarvale Mall — for now. *®;; With a deadline looming to use eminent domain before new state rules kick in, limiting the ability of government to seize private land for public benefit, the Eagan City Coun- cil is forging ahead with redevel- opment plans that may include the forced sale of property from up to 15 owners, including Ansari. In a unanimous vote last Tuesday after a 2 1/2-hour public hearing, the council decided to start the eminent domain process to seize the remain- der of property it needs to build a 70-acre, pedestrian -friendly mix of homes, offices and stores in the Ce- dar Grove area around the mall — if it can't reach voluntary agreements with the property owners. The decision angered Ansari and an audience of more than 100, nearly 50 of whom testified in support of his cafe and other businesses in the area south of Hwy. 13 near Cedar Avenue. The move comes this summer be- cause of a 2006 state law that restricts government from taking private land to transfer it to new private owners, and makes it easier for landowners to get more compensation for their property. The law grandfathered in Eagan's Cedar Grove project and others al- ready underway, including plans in Rosemount, where the city is consid- ering the seizure of property owned by a local veterinarian. Eagan has a July 2008 deadline by which to act under the old rules, said city staff. Abattle ahead Some owners, including Ansa- ri and auto repair shop owner Jerry Larson, have pledged a battle. "We've instructed our attorney to fight the eminent domain process all the way to the end," said Larson, who said he's girding himself to close his « WE'VE INSTRUCTED OUR ATTORNEY TO FIGHT THE EMINENT DOMAIN PROCESS ALL THE WAY TO THE END. Jerry Larson, owner of auto repair shop who says he might have to close business if the city forces Larson Au- to Repair to leave. "Based on what we will be paying in legal fees ... we will not be able to reopen." City officials say they still hope to negotiate sales with all owners. "The goal is to reach a fair deal for both the seller and the buyer," said Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire. "We've worked hard to negotiate in good faith, and have been success- ful with a lot of the property own- ers," said Jon Hohenstein, Eagan's community development director. The city has acquired three -fourths of the property in the area, and about 30 businesses have left in the past five years, including most tenants of Ce- darvale Mall. Cedar Grove redevelopment project site 13 N 2 miles Yankee Doodle Road Eagan Diffley Road 77. Cliff Road Source: City of Eagan, ESRI, TeleAtlas Some business owners expressed satisfaction with the outcome of ne- gotiations with the city. "It was the right price for me," said Joe Milbauer, who sold Valley Bike and Ski's Eagan location in 2002. Milbauer said he wanted to close the store, which still has a branch in Apple Valley, because "it was a poor retail location." But some unwilling sellers argued that, for the prices the city has of- fered, they would be hard-pressed to find new locations. Ansari, for one, said the city offered him half of what an appraisal indicated his property was worth. City staff said Eagan's offers are determined by a state -mandated ap- praisal process — and by the fact that the property is paid for with taxpay- er dollars. To residents arguing that the city should reach into its pockets to be more generous with landown- ers, Maguire replied, "Those pock- ets are not Mayor Maguire's pock- ets. They are not (City Administra- tor) Tom Hedges' pockets. They are a little bit of the pockets of every one of the 25,000 households that pay prop- erty taxes in this city" A long process Plans for redeveloping the Cedar - vale Mall area have been in the works for years. The area fell on hard times after road work on Hwy. 13 and Ce- dar Avenue removed two direct ac- cess points in the early 1980s. By the early '90s, local businesses were ask- ing the city for help, said Eagan staff. In 1999, a task force of business own- ers, residents and city advisory com- mittee members came up with a revi- talization plan that the city has been trying to implement ever since. To date, Eagan has spent about $25 million on road improvements and other costs associated with the Cedar Grove project, including more than $18 million for land. The city also agreed to provide as much as $14.2 million in public assistance to project developer Schafer Richardson before the company backed out last winter, citing a slow housing market. The city chose Doran Develop- ment and Pratt Homes to head a new development team this month, but hasn't yet reached a specific agree- ment with them. Council members defended their decision to consider eminent do- main. Council Member Paul Bakken said the city has invested too much in the area to risk losing the increased property tax revenue anticipated from redevelopment. "As public officials, we've got a limited number of tools in our tool- box," he said. "With complex proj- ects like this, we sometimes are put in a position where we feel like we are being asked to carve a statue, but the only tools we have are a hammer and a spatula." Sarah Lemagie • 612-673-7557 WEDNESDAY, JULY 25, 2007 • STAR TRIBUNE • SOUTH • S7 arts+leisure WHAT TO DO THIS WEEKEND startribune.com/entertainment R Photographs by JEFFREY THOMPSON • jthompson@startribune.com Bonnie Stevenson and Bill Wend, portraying Polly and Peter Butler, rehearsed a scene from "Marriage is Murder" at the Lakeville Area Arts Center. The play is the first being performed by the newly formed Expressions Lakeville Community Theater. The theater already has a full year of shows lined up. ew t qeate gilts stage NEW PRAGUE "High School Musical" gets another venue Generations Theatre of New Prague will be one of the first community theaters in the area to produce "High School Musical." It got the rights to the script shortly after the Children's Theatre Corn- pany of Minneapolis staged the hit Disney musical to sellout au- diences earlier this year and went on to produce a rare remount. The show features a younger cast than usual for Generations,. with about 80 actors, including many teenagers from New Prague, Belle Plaine and Savage high schools, according to board men- ber and choreographer Christine Plambeck. "We have a great talent pool of kids that we wanted to take ad- vanfage of," she said. "We know how big ("High School Musical"( was and the kids really loved it, so we're really excited to put this on." Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 3, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4, and 2 p.m. Aug. 5. All performances are the New Prague High School Auditorium, 221 NE 12th St., New Prague. Tickets are $12 adults, $9 for students and se- niors. Call 952-758-7GTC for tick- ets and information. • EAGAN High -flying stunts for "The Wizard of Oz" Eagan Summer Communi- ty Theater has recruited an army of munchkins and hired a Las Ve- gas flying company to put actors in the air for "The Wizard of Oz." south -metro hi h school Because the news never stops as www. thisweek-online.com City could use eminent domain Despite protests by some businesses and residents, council votes to keep eminent domain as an option if negotiations fail to secure remaining Cedar Grove properties by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Although loyal customers showed up in full force to pro- test the move, the Eagan City Council on Tuesday voted to keep eminent domain as an option should negotiations to acquire remaining businesses in the Cedar Grove redevelop- ment area fail. The city held a public hear- ing on the issue because, with about 14 properties left to be acquired, the clock is ticking on its ability to use eminent domain to secure them. Minnesota last year amend- ed its eminent domain law, re- stricting its use and making it more difficult for cities to acquire private property for redevelopment projects. But cities that had rede- velopment projects underway when the law changed are al- lowed to follow the old rules for five years after the redevel- opment district was created. uCity Acquired Properly To Be Acquired o Eagan Redevelopment ■ District The clock is ticking on the city's ability to use eminent domain on properties in the Cedar Grove redevelopment area that have not yet been acquired. The deadline to use the process is July 22, 2008. For Eagan, the five-year deadline expires next July. So far, the city has not had to use eminent domain in the area. It has already acquired about 15 properties through negotiations, but talks with some of the remaining prop- erty owners have stalled. Director of Community Development Jon Hohenstein said the city invited businesses to conduct their own apprais- als of their properties, which are then reviewed by the city's appraiser. According to the city, some property owners have not yet provided appraisals of the val- ue of their property, while oth- ers have submitted appraisals that differ substantially from the city's appraisals. "We've had some situations where the seller's appraisal and the city's appraisal are very different, so far different that it would be difficult to close the gap through negotiations," Hohenstein said. The city said it will continue to try to negotiate with the re- maining property owners and will use eminent domain only See Eminent Domain, 10A 2A my 2l 00 tki5'WEEK Power Doors, Power Seat, Power Wind/Locks/Mirrors, Quad Seats - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Wheels, Sunscreen, AntiLock/Traction Control, Roof Rack '2.000 down, plus 1. payment & lic. = '175 '0 down, + 1a Payment & lic. = '196 MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,000 Discount 43.610 420;444 Owner Loyally-$1,� = $19, (Inc 35W South Special Edition ALL THE FEATURES OF THE SXT PLUS Leather Seats — Heated Seats, Power Li tgate. Rear Seat Video, Wireless Headphones, Infinity Speakers, Power Driver & Pass. Seat, 3-Zone Temp Control, In -Dash 6-Disc CD/DVD/MP3 LEASE FOR CJ/, : lrh '2.000 down, plus 1-^ payment & lic. ='229 '0 down, + 1 Payment & lic. ='299 07Oa 07 Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4x4 Auto, ,rD Elseal ING HORN VALUE -SII* S 8 _ 5.7 Herni with MDS/Improved Fuel. Auto. Air, CD Player, Fogs, Slider, Power (Seat, Locks, Mirrors, Windows), Trailer Tow Grou. lirrl lK ;i J G l" 1-Year SIRIUS #98128 O% .SI,000 FOR AVAI MSRP Rebate Discount...., Owner I T07 Ra Eminent Domain/from l A as a last resort. "It remains our goal to reach 100 percent of acquisi- tions through negotiations," said Mayor Mike Maguire. "We do not take the discus- sion of eminent domain light- ly. But some business owners said they don't think the city has been fair in its negotia- tions. "I suggest that the walk the city has been walking doesn't jibe with the talk it's been talking," said attorney Gary Fuchs, who represents some property owners in the area. Dedicated customers of some of the remaining busi- nesses — residents and non- residents alike — packed the council chambers to speak out against the use of emi- nent domain. "It saddens me to think that the government of Ea- gan would bring itself down to the level to even use the words `eminent domain' for some companies that have been with the city as long as they have," said resident John Willenburg. The majority of speakers were there to support two Ce- dar Grove businesses in par- ticular that have yet to reach a deal with the city — the Med- iterranean Cruise Cafe and Larson Automotive Services. Owners of both businesses said they don't want to leave the Cedar Grove area, where they have acquired a substan- tial customer base. "We've been in the area almost 28 years. That's a lot of time. That's a lot of mem- ories," said Mediterranean Cruise Cafe owner Jamal An - sari. "We are here because we love what we do and we ca- ter to the community. We do something unique that no one else does. ... We want to be treated fairly." Jerry Larson of Larson Au- tomotive said that he's spent "major" money on recent im- provements to his building. "We don't want to sell our property, but basically you're coming to take our proper- ties," he said. Several people who at- tended the meeting ques- tioned why the two businesses couldn't be included in the redevelopment plans. "You are doing a great thing, trying to make (Cedar Grove) the gateway to Ea- gan," Ansari said. "Why can't we be there?" Hohenstein said the coun- cil has directed staff to work with the area's new master de- veloper to see if there are any options to keep more of the existing businesses in Cedar Grove. Council members said they are open to the possibility of some existing businesses be- ing included in the redevel- opment plans. Maguire even admitted that hummus and tabbouleh from the Medi- terranean Cruise Cafe have become staples at his annual fantasy football draft. But the businesses are more than just the buildings, he said. "They are you," he said. "I hope on hope that we can find a way to work with your busi- nesses, as well as all the oth- ers, to maintain your place in this community as true as- sets." Some business owners ac- tooek t-brl cused the city of making low - ball offers on their property. Phil Fahey, who owns Ameri- can Accounts and Advisors, said he knows the city has deep pockets and suggested it pay property owners "maybe double what the appraiser comes back with." "Share some of that wealth with the current property owners," he said. "Why not pay us enough so we can stay viable?" The city denied making lowball offers and said that it has to protect the integrity of its dollars for the entire com- munity. "Those deep pockets ... are a little bit of the pockets of every one of the 25,000 households that pays proper- ty taxes in this city," Maguire said. "And we have to balance the interests of all of them as well." The council heard more than two hours of testimony from 48 people, all of whom opposed the use of eminent domain, before unanimously voting to retain it as an op- tion. Council Member Paul Bak- ken called eminent domain a necessary tool in the toolbox of public officials. "If the city is not able to facilitate a development in that area that works, then the whole thing collapses and the city and the taxpayers are left holding the bag," he said. Plans to revitalize Cedar Grove have been in the works for about eight years. Once the "downtown" of Eagan and home to the first mall south of the river, the area began to decline in the 1980s when direct access to Cedar - vale Mali was eliminated and Highway 13 was realigned. The area is now primed to become an urban vil- lage with shops, restaurants, transit stations, housing and public spaces, with develop- ers Doran Development and Pratt Homes at the helm. City Attorney Mike Dougherty said that even if the city initiates eminent do- main, it can continue nego- tiations with property owners throughout the process. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 1 A.1112M E ILIUM IIr ram TM cal that provides a political commentary on the times, she surprises her best friend (Amanda Bynes), the hosts (James Marsden mad Queen Latifah), the dancers (Zac Efron, Brittany Snow, Elijah Kelley, et al.) and the snob- bish station manager (Mi- chelle Pfeiffer) with her well - rehearsed dancing talent and her willingness to confront prejudices and stereotypes. "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry" (PG-13) (2.5) [Crude sexual content throughout, nudity, lan- guage, and drug references.] T When a widowed Brook- lyn firefighter (Kevin James) marries his best friend and womanizing partner (Adam Sandler) in order to circum- vent an unfair law regarding changing pension beneficia- ries in this silly, fun -filled comedy, their gay ruse must fool a preying state inspec- tor (Steve Buscemi), their firehouse captain (Dan Aykroyd) and crew (Ving Rhames, Nicholas Turturro, et al.), and their sexy lawyer (Jessica Biel). "Joshua" (R) (2) [Lan- guage and some disturbing behavior by a child.] Jeal- ousy runs rampant in this slow -moving, slow -building, predictable psychological w WWI, ignores his beautiful, found at www.shortredhea lonely, and sexually repressed reelreviews. com. Jumpin' Beans.. u`e relit fun!! 1/2 Day Moon -Walk Rental kLit $99.00 mention this ad and receive $10.00 off on a full day rental. 651-592-2312 Lakeville Tie Lt i�t,Hl.tt gotf ctNb 8tb in the Nation 1" in Minnesota Ranked by Golf Digest January 2003 "BEST NEW AFFORDABLE" Golf course •Seniors 18-holes w/cart M-F $27.50 • • 2 Players 18-holes w/cart Wednesdays $70.00 • Short drive from the south metro More Golf Value for Your Dollar Bentgrass Fairways, Tees and Greens Ranked 20th for value under $50.00 by Golf Magazine 2004 Summitgolfclub.com 2 Miles West of Cannon Falls on Hw} 19 -Just 25 minutes from 494 & Hwy. 52 507-263-4648 or In -State 1-877-582-4653 7r21•724851R•DE Offer not valid with other promotions. Monday -Friday •$32.00 Sat. & Sun. after 2:00 pm -$32.00 TWILIGHT After 3:30 Monday -Friday $33.50 Sat. & Sun $37.00 18 holes with cart wr any o ero--rs. xpr EARLY BIRD SPECIAL Mon -Fri before 9am $35 18 holes with cart 9-HOLE SPECIALS After 6:00 pm $22.00 With Cart • $15.00 Walking www.boulderpointegolf.com 952-461 -4900 9575 Glenborough Drive, Elko, MN 55020 Air L► V t/ 1 I L.'IV d 1 G 1-1 T C L U B In the Apple Place Bowl Texas Hold'em Tourney Every Tues. at 8 p.m. f Saturday, July 21 HAIRBALL • $7 cover at 7 p.m. Music at 9:30 p.m. Monday, July 23 11 KRIS VOX from KV3 w vy Back Alley Tavern 9-11 p.m. Happy Hour Until 11 p.m. � := t_ Wednesday, July 25 SHELBY'S VOYAGE $3 cover at 7 p.m. Music at 9:30 p.m. ONE FREE DRINK with Paid Cover, WOMEN FREE DRINKS 9-11 p.m. 2FOR 1 S FOR EVERYONE Al L NIGHT I ONG PRIZES NIGHTLY! SUN EAGAN AUGUST 9, 2007 CURRENT In the Community, With the Community, For the Community SPORTS 76ers, Cobras advance to state PAGE 22A Dakota County responds to I-35W bridge collapse SCOTT TNEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Emergency vehicles line the 10th Avenue bridge above the collapsed Interstate 35W bridge over the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis as rescuers search for victims Aug. 1. Law enforcement officers perform variety of tasks Members of a specially trained Dakota County law enforcement team were among the hundreds of rescuers who responded when the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis col- lapsed Wednesday, Aug. 1. The Dakota County Special Operations Team (DCSOT) responded to the scene of the col- lapse shortly after 7 p.m. The DCSOT is made up of law enforcement officers from around Dakota County. When the call for help came, 25 of 36 team members responded. Half were deployed to the bridge, and half remained behind in case the first team needed to be rotated out. "From the staging area, [the first team] got deployed to the bridges," said Dave Gisch, an emergency preparedness coordinator with the Dakota County Sheriff's Office. "They did a recovery operation from one of the vehicles on the deck of the bridge. The per- son [in the vehicle] was deceased." The first group of 13 DCSOT members cleared the scene at 1 a.m. Thursday. It was composed of fire department personnel from Eagan, Hastings, Inver Grove Heights, Rosemount, South St. Paul and West St. Paul. Police departments from Hastings, Inver Grove Heights and Mendota Heights also had members on the first team. The second team of 12 DCSOT members was sent home around 11 p.m. Wednesday. They were told to rest and be ready for any necessary re -deployment. For now, it looks like the DCSOT team won't be back. "There may be a need for additional resources — but that team in particular won't be needed," Gisch said. The collapse of the bridge changed the nature of the emergency response. Gisch said that a structure collapse requires special training and equipment to properly respond. The DCSOT is part of Task Force One, a response team made up of five agencies: the Minneapolis Fire Department, the St. Paul Fire Department, the Edina Fire Department, the Rochester Fire Department and the DCSOT. BRIDGE: TO PAGE 16A 2A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current - Thursday, Aug. 9, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Courage Center Your trusted community rehabilitation resource State-of-the-art occupational, physical and speech therapy programs for infants, children and adolescents with physical disabilities, developmental delays, autism and speech and language impairments. • Sensory therapies with new sensory -motor gym • Specialized speech and feeding programs • Award -winning, warm water aquatic center and accessible wellness and fitness center • Assistive technology • Camping —residential, family and day camp options We partner with health care systems throughout Minnesota and Western Wisconsin Courage Center 4 convenient locations Burnsville 952.898.5700 Forest Lake 651.464.5235 Golden Valley 763.588.0811 Stillwater 651.439.8283 7 am - 7 pm Monday - Friday Saturday appointments available WHERE ABILITIES AND DISABILITIES BECOME POSSIBILITIES courage courage.org Coinage history was made when... The U.S. Mint released NEW 2007 Presidential Dollars! Dave and Sherry Ringberg own and operate Ring Mountain Creamery Cafe in Eagan with the help of their children, Tom and Margaret. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) SCOTT THEISEN SUN NEWSPAPERS Family brings original flavors GRANT BOELTER • 'UN NEWSPAPERS It's not just a mom-and-pop ice cream store. In fact, it's more of a family under- taking. While Dave and Sherry Ringberg put forth the capital for the newly opened Ring Mountain Creamery Cafe in Eagan, they didn't leave their children out of the decision -making process lead- ing up to its opening - or let them off the hook when they were looking for employees. "We've been a part of a couple deal -mak- ings or decisions," said Tom Ringberg, who along with his twin sister Margaret helped in the design process for the cafe, among other things. The two seniors to be, Tom at Eagan High School and Margaret at the School of Environmental Studies in Apple Valley, also work behind the counter and are the first to be railed in if another employee can't make it. But being a part of the family business also means tagging along with mom and dad on a gelato tour of Italy before the shop opened. Dave and Sherry also traveled to North Carolina for a class on gelato making and attended an eight -day course at Penn State University - the same class that ice cream moguls Ben and Jerry took before they started their business - prior to open- ing their shop that specialises in gelato and premium ice cream at 1965 Cliff Lake Road, Eagan. "We've taken the last two or three years to educate ourselves about the ice cream industry" said Sherry, as the shop will fea- ture 2A flavors of both gelato and premium ice cream that's made right in the store. CREAMERY: TO PAGE 3A In the Community, With the Community, For the Comm, Bridge FROM PAGE 16A "We've always thought about airplanes going down and having to assist with that" because of the community's proximity to the airport, he said. The Lakeville Police Department will send three officers to the scene to help keep the perimeter secure. Lakeville Police Capt. Kevin Manias said each of the officers would work an eight -hour shift. Another officer will "pull mul- tiple shifts" while working with the DCSOT. "We'll wait and see what they need," Manias said. "The initial request for help was for the next three days." The South Metro Fire Department (the newly combined departments of West St. Paul and South St. Paul) provided mutual aid. Chief John Ehret said three firefighters and a boat were sent to assist with rescue efforts. The fire- fighters received the call at 6:15 p.m., and main- ly provided coverage for the St. Paul Fire Department The department also remained on call from the South Metro station house. Ehret said the firefighters returned around 1:30 a.m. "It's a very tragic event that impacted not only the Minneapolis Fire Department, but the entire Twin Cities area," Ehret said. "We're happy to see how local agencies pulled together in a pre -planned format." The Apple Valley Police and Rosemount Police departments are both supplying per- sonnel for perimeter security. Four Apple Valley officers and two Rosemount officers were sent to the scene Thursday, Aug. 2. Besides having two members on the DCSOT, the Burnsville Police Department has scheduled 18 police officers to help at the scene through Saturday, two at a time in eight -hour shifts. One officer will help secure the perimeter of the accident, and the other will be closer to the scene. Six Burnsville police chaplains were also put on standby Wednesday night; they were not needed immediately, but were called to the scene Thursday morning to help com- fort victims' families. Burnsville Police Sgt. Dan Carlson, Burnsville's emergency management coordi- nator, said his department is willing to assist in whatever capacity is needed. "There's always the initial impulse to go down and help, but we've learned you don't go down until you're asked, so that's how we hari- dle the situation," he said. Community editors Megan Anderson, Grant Boelter, Heather Voorhees and Joseph Palmersheim contributed to this article. Sun Newspapers intern Kassie Petermann also contributed. Community, With the Community, For the Community a em got th- ss, she it. lf.,, w a ga- in a ota rig- ays t it ant - After participating in a beginning level baton twirling community educa- tion/park and recreation class, the girls joined the Minnesota Magic Team. All students, both competing and non -competing twirlers, perform at the Mall of America, parades, and two recitals each year. This July, the seven Minnesota Magic twirlers attended the 27th National Collegiate Championships in South Bend, Ind., at Notre Dame University. This was their second year competing at nationals. The teams placed in the top 20 in their events at the competition. In addition to team awards, Haley placed second in world open two - baton and sixth in world open solo, Amy is the national champion in world open flag twirling and placed sixth in world open two -baton, Nicole placed ninth in world open x-strut, and Erin placed fifth in world open x- strut and sixth in world open hoop baton twirling. ng the Light ...' AY WORSHIP & 10:30 am 210th St. West Lakeville f Lakeville So. HS) 52-435-5548 w.trinityefc.net irit of Joy tiara Church ER SCHEDULE Worship 10:30 am urch of Open Minds nd Open Hearts .spiritofjoymacom at 7570 210th Street W. BATON: TO PAGE 20A Immanuel City of Refuge Church Nondenominational would like to invite you to our worship urviee. We are having church the way tt was meant to be! Order of Service Friday 7:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am Pastor Hence L. Block and First Lady Ethel Block Meeting at Burnsville YMCA 13850 Portland Ave. S. Room B Burnsville, MN 55337 952-808-0395 Family of Chri� 1 Lutheran Church ELCA SUMMER Sunday Worship 8:30 & 10:00 am Nursery Provided 16A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current, -Thursday, Aug. 9, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Bridge FROM PAGE 1A "Being that it's a loose organization, they attempt to train together as much as possible," Gisch said. "This is one of the first large structural collapses that the team has responded to." West St. Paul Fire Department Capt. Mike Pott led the team of DCSOT members who worked on the bridge. Pott was off duty when the bridge collapsed. When the first team departed for the scene, they took structural collapse equipment and rescue equipment, as well as a rescue trailer. "We were deployed to the north end of the bridge, and we were just given an operation to do," Pott said. "We were one small team in and among the hundreds of people who were there." The DCSOT team has trained togeth- er for the last four years. The goal of training for an emergency event is so that the skills learned in practice can be applied to the real thing. "Hopefully, when the time comes, there's not a huge difference," Pott said. "Of course, the magnitude of this one sur- passes any training that you could do." "The team did a good job - and when I say that, I mean the entire team, which includes the 12 people who were staged," Gisch said. "It's a phenomenal group of personnel." The Dakota County Sheriff's Office Dive Team was also called in to help with search and recovery efforts. Chief Deputy Sheriff Dave Bellows said two boats with full crews aided in searching the water after the bridge col- lapsed. The county also used its side scan sonar to locate cars underwater. Bellows said teams would also likely be assisting with recovery efforts throughout the weekend as teams from all over the metro will be rotating in and out as part of a consistent effort. "The sad part is once they start mov- ing things" more casualties may be dis- covered, said Bellows. South metro pitches in Various law enforcement agencies from towns south of the river answered the call for help by sending personnel to assist with various tasks. In addition to having individuals serving on the DCSOT, the Eagan Fire Department had a crew of five fire- fighters standing by at the scene with the department's hard -sided rescue boat. Fire Chief Mike Scott said the department might be called for use of the boat in the coming days, as it may present an advantage over inflatable recovery watercrafts. The department also had its mobile command center on standby. While his department is trained to prepare for worst -case scenarios, Scott said he could have never imagined an event like this. "I've never thought about a bridge collapse," he said. BRIDGE: TO PAGE 17A In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Let us bring QUALITY and COMFORT to you Call now to schedule your indoor or outdoor projects • Lower Level Finish • Porches & Becks • Garages • Siding & Windows • Roofing • Major Remodels • Kitchen & Bath • Additions & Second Stones 612-750-6654 QUALITY PLUS CONSTRUCTION Bonded • Insured Lic #20451411 www.QualityPlusConstruction.com www.mnSun.com —Thursday, Aug. 9, 2007 — Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 15A fAINSIE 61 and.4644 1 E1 US FL OOR YOU! S itCarpet - Vinyl - V.C.T. - Wood laminates - Rubber Flooring MASTER FLOORS MOBILE SHOWROOM FOR AFFORDABLE IN HOME SHOPPING FLOOR YOU" FREE ESTIMATES Contact Troy "The Flooring Guy" C 612.221.4646 Troymasterfloors@earthlink.net MINIM We Do it Better... And We Do It On Time! I WE FINISII BASEMENTS,' BUILD HOMES, ADDITIONS & PORCHES I Quality work at a Reasonable price Free Consultation, Estimate & Friendly Advice 952-443-3430 651-235-8972 (8am-7pm) www.OnTimeContractors.com Fully Insured References available with quote BC Lic# 20466034 ♦ Fix It + Replace It + Seal It + Tweak It NoV4 (952) 652-2012 + Townhome Specialist ♦ No Job Too Small ♦ Competitive Rates We Do It Now! We Do It Right! visa Lic# 20627728 1-877.3246737 1.877-ECHORES www.handemannow.com Locally Owned & Operated Fully Insured & Bonded rOn Time Contractors, Inc.' e Apple Valley Thanks Kathleen To the editor: I very much enjoyed the story about Kathleen Gilbertson, animal -control expert for Eagan. She obviously 144) towiL has talent and experience work- ing with a variety of animals and she might want to put those gifts to use by volunteering for the Minnesota Valley Humane Society. They are always look- ing for good people with her love of animals. Please check them out at www.mvhspets.org. Thank you very much, Kathleen, for 28 years of great service. Kate Fitzgerald MVHS volunteer Eagan Power of community To the editor: Articles about National Night Out (Sun -Current, Aug. 2) illus- trate the value of a community's stand that crime won't pay with- in its boundaries. And they point to the question of who really does set policy for our streets, our properties, our schools, and our communities. It starts with us - in our neighborhoods, in our daily interactions with our 6Y-67- 67 neighbors. Without a stand against crime, there may be lit- tle sense of our own power to shape our neighborhood in ways we see best. And the issue goes beyond the limits of our municipalities to our county, even to the repre- sentation we elect to our state Legislature and our federal Congress. What clout can you and I exercise in protecting and developing our families, our jobs and businesses, and the places we live? Life in our com- munities is often determined by elected officials, whether or not we agree with them. But we do have power. We can talk and vote, we can write and complain. We can discuss what works best. Letters to edi- tors are powerful tools. Backyard gossip can be a tool. Committed action with neigh- bors is very powerful. Neighborhood Night Out may be only a first step. Constance Peterson Eagan with Itasca Park y $899 pp/dbl" URS vailable!"-Call for details! r/October — CaII for details! $429 pp/dbl $1,299 pp/dbl $1,195 pp/dbl $1,299 pp/dbl "Only $899 pp/dbl" $449 pp/dbl Hawaii Cruise -Aboard the NCL Pride of AL ...$2,495 pp/dbl February 13-23, 2008 Dakota Gold $4 September 23-27, 2007 Chicago Weekend Escape $42 September 28-30, 2007 Nashville & The Smoky Mountains $99 October 1-8, 2007 Beautiful Door County $57 October 2-5, 2007 Norse Hostfest-Minot ND $58 October 11-14, 2007 Fall Branson Music Special $57 October 16-20, 2007 Celebration Belle $469 October 17-19, 2007 Deluxe Chicago Amtrak $769 October 30 — November 2, 2007 New York -New York Fly $1,589 November 12-15, 2007 -A-Way! Call for details tails HWEST $3,995 pp/dbl Florida Extended $3,149 (2-bedroom) January 24-March 3, 2008 Arizona Escape $1,599 pp/dbl February 18 — March 2, 2008 Texas Fiesta $1,199 pp/dbl March 5 — March 14, 2008 Meskwaki September 27-28; Octobe ONE -DAY TOURS Only in Lanesboro Duluth/Train Cranberry Festival Farewell to Fantasy Zepli Second farmers market comes to Eagan Grand Oak Farmers Market will feature local produce, music by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan residents will now have two farmers markets to choose from this summer with the opening of the Grand Oak Farmers Market on Aug. 16. Grand Oak Farmers Mar- ket will be open from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 25 at the Grand Oak Business Park, located at highways 55 and 149 in Ea- gan. The market will focus on See Market, 15A 04) '2•e00 down. plus 1 ° payment & Iic. = '217 • MSRP Rebate Discount 07 Caliber it Conditioning with Chill Zone Storage, Aut 60/40 Split Rear Seat 'A} MSRP Rebate . Discount '2,000 down. plu+— I- payment 61ic.='19 $.1 Lease pryllwAs pYrs lm. k IA pYmamda. la. No Saurq• DepsN1 05 CHEVY MALI 01 National Night Out is Aug. 7 by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS When Eagan began cele- brating National Night Out in 1998, only 20 neighborhoods participated. This year, 149 neighborhoods have planned cookouts, potlucks, games and block parties to celebrate the occasion. The purpose of Nation- al Night Out is to heighten crime- and drug -prevention awareness, generate support for anti -crime efforts, and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police -community partnerships. Residents are encouraged to get outside and mingle with See NNO, 14A 4dr, Sedan, LS 3.5L $1 O 6 Cyl., A/T iios4A 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUN 4dr. LWB, Touring, 3.8L.$ J 6 6-cyl, 35.286 mi. 13160 Fire Department Ice Cream Social is Aug. 9 The Eagan Fire Depart- The event will feature fire ment will have its annual Ice trucks, a jumper slide, food, Cream Social from 6 to 9 p.m. beverages and more. For more Thursday, Aug. 9, at Eagan nformation, call (612) 209- Station #4, located at 4200 5725. �_ U 7Dodd Road. ne Can t, Z v s1rUpin agIcc [0 UU the same to mine? It's time to put his money where his forked - tongue is. ALAN MILLER Eagan arsmisses anyone who holds opposing views, especially ones based on facts and data. No, these are not just "whining lefties" complain- ing about these very serious problems. Most Americans are concerned. We need to discuss these critical issues seriously i y-e34-/-c)7 Photo by Rick Orndorf Shoppers peruse the bounty of fresh produce and flowers for sale at Eagan Market Fest, held each Wednesday at Central Park. Eagan Market Fest features fresh produce, live music, art The Eagan Market Fest runs every Wednesday through Aug. 29 at Eagan's Central Park, located at 1501 Central Parkway behind the Eagan Community Center. Local farmers feature fresh produce, including sweet corn, tomatoes, beans and a full line of fresh -picked produce. Additional local food products are featured, includ- ing honey products, apple products, fresh cut flowers, strudel, organic frozen meats and more. Artisans feature hand- crafted products, and all booths are open from 3 to 7 p.m. Live music and performers are featured each week from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. for all ages to enjoy. Families with children may enjoy the playground and free children's art activities with a different project each week. Also, a free outdoor movie will be shown Aug. 29 ("Chit- ty Chitty Bang Bang") at the Eagan Rotary Band Shell starting at 9 p.m. To get a schedule of Mar- ket Fest events, visit the Ea- gan Community Center or visit the Events Calendar at www.cityofeagan.com. For more information on attending the event or being a vendor, call (651) 675-5550. Dakota County program tracks babies' development by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Local officials are not cer- tain how to react to news that a program targeting "at risk" infants is growing. Dakota County Commis- sioner Paul Krause said while it's good to take care of chil- dren, he was concerned that participation in the county's Follow Along Program has grown by 17 percent in one year. Krause wondered if more kids are at risk for develop- mental issues or if the pro- gram is just becoming more popular. The answer, said Carol Messler, family health super- visor with the Dakota County Public Health Department, lies in the county's outreach and marketing efforts. For example, she said the county targets families with premature babies and low-in- come families for voluntary inclusion into the program, which tracks babies' develop- mental progress until age 4. Those enrolled in the coun- ty's family home -visiting pro- gram are also offered the op- tion to be involved in Follow Along, as are mothers with limited education or families with children who have dis- abilities. Once in the program, every four to six months, caregivers complete an "Ages & Stages" child's age, whether the child eats with a fork and if the child has had any recent medical problems.. If there are problems flagged, county staff helps families find help or offers services ranging from home visits to parenting tips over the phone. In 2006, there were 1,156 children enrolled in Follow Along, and of those, 2.4 per- cent qualified for early child- hood special education. In 2005, 1.8 percent of children in the program qualified for the service. Families enrolled in the program come from through- out the county, but in 2006, the majority were from the Apple Valley/Rosemount/Ea- gan school district, with 378 children served. In the Burnsville/Savage school district, 241 families were in the program last year; Farmington schools had 116 participants, and in Lakeville there were 114 families in- volved. One of last year's cases in- volved twin boys born at 34 weeks gestation. The mother, 35, enrolled the children when they were 19 months old, and she was concerned about their com- munication levels. By the time the twins were 2 years old, the mother listed numerous behavior issues, communication concerns speech and language services. Other programs that Fol- low Along participants were referred to include food stamps, Head Start, private physical, occupational and speech therapy and parent support services. According to parent sur- veys, the program has helped many families with their chil- dren's developmental skills, and 92 percent of the families that responded would recom- mend the Follow Along pro- gram to others. One parent said the services have been very helpful, and another said they were referred to their school district, which may have been delayed without this service. County Community Ser- vices Director David Rooney has stressed the importance of early intervention as a way to save public dollars in the long run by dealing with problems before they become issues re- quiring intensive • therapies, programs or even involvement in the legal system. Messler said the county has established a Web site for the program, where participants may be able to complete as- sessments online. She said, in this way, the program may be able to fur- ther expand in the future and may offer ECFE classes in one or two area school districts. For more information All systems (near) go for Dakota County 800 MHz Nov. 19 is "go live" date by Laura Adelmann THISW EEK NEWSPAPERS Dakota County's 800 mega- hertz (MHz) system will "go live" Nov. 19. The multi -governmen- tal agency project to provide a countywide cutting -edge emergency communications network is moving forward on time, within budget and as planned. County Operations Man- agement Director Taud Hoop- ingerner updated county com- missioners on the system's progress last week, noting the joint dispatch center will soon be operating, as well. He said a final inspection and certificate of occupancy for the building was expected last week, and a skeleton crew will soon be moving into of- fices. And, by Oct. 30, the full 911 operations workforce will be occupying the building. The 800 MHz system allows emergency personnel, law en- forcement, fire and ambulance workers access to a cross -juris- dictional communications net- work and was funded, in part, by federal Homeland Security grants. Hoopingerner said 1,668 portable emergency radios must be reconfigured for po- lice, fire, emergency medical services and public works of- ficials to use the system. Training for using the ra- dios will begin in September, and "Can you hear me now?" testing will be completed in November, allowing about two weeks before the "go live" target deadline. Some of the equipment, however, is already operation- al, and preliminary systems testing in more difficult areas appears to indicate the signal transmissions will provide good coverage. "We had reception in the basement of the county jail..." Hoopingerner said. "Things are going well." Laura Adelmann is at dceditor@frontiernet. net. Letters Democrat Party letter -writing format." Even the characteriza- tion of the "Democratic" Party is one utilized by detractors in an attempt to be derogatory. Not one word of substance or philosophy in his letter — nothing more than personal at- tacks. While I am not a "card-car- rying" member of any party, I have never voted for only mem- bers of one party, most trou- bling to me was the character- ization that I "endorse(s) the wacky, $20-billion-per-year De- partment of Peace proposed by the equally wacky Dennis Ku- cinich ..." Complete falsehood. I think the Kucinich proposal is an unnecessary addition to a bursting federal bureaucracy, nor have I supported Kucinich or any other candidate of any party in next year's election. If Erickson can document his statements, I will donate $100 to his favorite charity. If implemented war also cost us half a trillion dollars so far. Not only are Iraqi children dying because of the disaster we have created, but Kline and the administration have failed our veterans, causing them to endure horrible conditions at Walter Reed and other veter- ans hospitals, literally forcing them to sue their government for adequate health care. Shouldn't citizens expose the fact that our deficit has climbed $3 trillion under this adminis- tration, increasing our federal budget interest payments by $150 billion? Expose that our citizens in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, more than two years after Katrina, are getting sick in FEMA trailers and be- ing denied services because our government hides health information? As Paul O'Neill, a Republican, points out in the book "The Price of Loyalty," this administration loathes and Because the news never stops 1 ` itiONNA 2_4)0 g- www.thisweek-online.co m County assists in bridge disaster recovery Eagan firefighters, rescue boat also respond to scene by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Dakota County rescuers were uniquely positioned to assist emergency responders in Wednesday's I-35W/Uni- versity Avenue bridge -collapse disaster. Chief Deputy Dave Bel- lows said the county's water patrol and special operations team responded to the disaster site immediately upon hearing of the rush-hour collapse. The Special Operations Team is made up of firefight- ers, EMS, police officers and sheriff's deputies and are cer- tified in structural collapse. Team members recovered a body in a car on the bridge platform, according to Dako- ta County Sheriff Don Gud- mundson. He said the team returned at 1 a.m. Photo submitted by T rn Webster Rescue workers survey the area where the Interstate 35W bridge over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis collapsed stranding cars in the wreckage and tossing others into the river. The Dakota County Special Operations Team was called to the site to aid with rescue and recovery efforts. County responders came tions center that lit late -night equipped with . two water -pa- search efforts, and side -scan trol boats, a large communica- sonar detectors, used to iden- tify objects underwater. Bellows said the sonar hangs off the side of a search boat and shoots out a signal into the water, which shows up on a screen showing objects under the water. Hennepin and Dakota counties are the only local emergency responders with such devices, which are cru- cially important in rescue ef- forts. Dakota County Sheriff's Deputy Mike Fendrick, who is assigned to Parks, Lakes and Trails, went in with Henne- pin County Water Patrol last night, because he is an expert in reading side scanner sonar, according to Gudmundson. He said the team mapped and used its Global Position- ing System to locate four cars and had expected to take them out of the water on Thursday. A recent purchase, the so- nar was also used successfully in the grim search for the sec - See Bridge, 9A 2A August 4, 2007 THISWEEK 07 Grand Caravan SXT Power Doors, Power Seat, Power Wind/Locks/Mirrors, Quad Seats - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Wheels, Sunscreen, AntiLock/Traction Control, Roof Rack '2,000 down, plus 1 ^ payment & Ilc. ='196 07 Dakota Club Cab Auto V6 A,, P,av eucFei i a i'^wer Cat Rear Sea' ar<arr_A s-g 74' i ObbL-.r&EwAaM MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,000 Discount -$3,610 $.-20;99j- j Owner Loyalty -$1,000 = 4019,995 Appointment 07 Grand Caravan SXT Special Edition ALL THE FEATURES OF THE SXT PLUS Leather Seats — Heated Seats, Power Liftgate, Rear Seat Video, Wireless Headphones, Infinity Speakers, Power Driver & Pass. Seat 3-Zone Temp Control. In -Dash 6-Disc CD/DVD/MP3 2,000 down, plus 1• payment & Ifc. = 435 07 Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4x4 BIG HORN VALUE GROUP — 20" WHEELS - w!th MDS/Improved Fuel. Auto, Air, CD Player. Fogs. r Seat, Locks, Mirrors, Windows), Trailer Tow Grou MSRP Rebate Discount Owner L 07 Dod Bridge/from lA and worker who died in the St. Paul sewer -system acci- dent two weeks ago. Wednesday night, Bellows estimated there were about eight rescuers from the coun- ty on the Minneapolis scene. "We started mobilizing right away," Bellows said. "Minneapolis (responders) are in charge of the opera- tion; we're an asset and re- source to providing assis- tance." Although the situation was "fluid," Bellows said he expects Dakota County workers will be at the site several days if not weeks. "We've offered our ser- vices. The two big things now are trying to identify those vehicles under the water so they can be checked by div- ers," Bellows said. A crew of five Eagan fire- fighters and Eagan's rescue boat were also briefly dis- patched to assist in the I-35W bridge emergency response Wednesday night. "We're certainly shocked by the tragedy in Minneapo- lis," said Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims,. their families and the emer- gency personnel who contin- ue to respond." The mayor pledged that as operations shift to recovery over the long haul, the city of Eagan will make available whatever logistical support is needed. Gudmundson expects that Dakota County's dive team will be used on Saturday or Sunday. Dive Team Commander Det. Steve Forrey said the current is very tricky there normally but even more so because of debris in the wa- ter. Gudmundson said the dam has been modified and the water level was taken down, which will help in re- covery. At about 10:20 p.m., Hennepin County officials announced in a press confer- ence that the operation had moved from rescue to recov- ery mode. Bellows said the county will do whatever it can to as- THISWEEK August 4, 2007 9A sist in the disaster efforts. "When you're in a situ- ation like this, it's going to take a great deal of resourc- es. This is larger than Minne- apolis or Hennepin County," he said. Dakota County deputies and local police officers will likely help secure the perim- eter in the coming days, ac- cording to Gudmundson. Laura Adelmann is at dceditor@frontiernet. net.p OA August 4, 2007 THISWEEK 4rts South of the river gets a taste of by Brooke M. Walsh TIIISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Show tunes, spoken word, North Dakotaisms, modern and Chinese dance are a few of the offerings south of the river natives will present at the 2007 Photo by Erin Johnson Hannah and Zack Husted ride their bikes in the Wescott Square neighborhood, which is transition- ing from an area associated with crime to a family -friendly community. A neighborhood renaissance The Wescott Square neighborhood uses National Night Out to celebrate its newfound sense of community by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Two years ago, Melis- sa Husted said she didn't feel comfortable letting her children play outside their Wescott Square home. Today, they're riding their bikes on the nearby basket- ball court as their neighbors shoot hoops. "When I first moved out here, you kind of stuck to yourself," she said. "I'm just a lot more comfortable let- ting my kids outside now. The neighbors are a lot more the kind of people that I would want around my kids." A neighborhood once as- sociated with crime problems, Wescott Square will celebrate National Night Out this year with a newfound sense of The neighborhood's basketball children. community. The neighborhood, which used to have its own police substation due to the num- Photo by Erin Johnson court has become a magnet for ber of service calls it gener- ated, has been going through a transition over the past few See Wescott, 9A S22,140 -S4,000 -S2 141 IU t ear '2.000 dawn. plus 1" payment & tic. = '285 07 Charger moral 07 Ram 11111 Power Sunroof & Boston kouoyc sound, WC Auto. DOHC-24 Valve. Power SLT P$Ckage - Windows, Locks, Minors), CD Player, Power Seat, Antibde-ESP 80 Horn Package Auto, Air, Power (winds, lacks. mirrors). Tow Pkg. Rear Slider & more! s, DF,dgE MimmOn Sole prKE for -aiden6 d Ifrmais ivYd cosier dlfgeei, lose, R.D. and SD_ mFp! (erpuesi km into ravenllp le Yeq Halide el my him fa liOden tit 0%addible G of Per 04 CHEVY MALIBU 4dr, Sedan, LS, $1 1,925 6-cyl, 35,826 mi.. 131ta 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY 4dr, U(. 3.31. V6, $ 23,940 MI,A/T 13127 5,925 05 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA 4dr. Manual. 2.5L 5- $4 C 925 cyl, 13,940 mi. 900338 , 06 CHRYSLER PACIFICA 4dr, Wagon Touring, $ FWD, 3.5L 6cy1, 4dr.1a1esi 71925 05 DODGE DAKOTA 4dr, Quad Cab. SLT, $1 7 925 4.7L, 8cyl, AR 13094 03 DODGE CARAVAN 4.e 4 4dr. 3.8L. 6-cyl. Grand EX, $9,925 A/T 94161A Vi1V 06 DODGE STRATUS 41h, Sedan. SXT, 2.7L $ i 2,925 6 Cy1.13356 06 HYUNDAI SONATA GLS 4dr. 3.3L V-6, AutLJ"i 4,925 25,773 mi. 13150 03 DODGE RAM 1500 3.7L V6, 79,055 $7925 Mi., 5-spd. e62JBB • 2dr, C 4WD, Wescott/from 1A years. The area used to consist of 30 mostly rental proper- ties that had many different owners but no cohesive set of rules. Over the past two years, several of the build- ings ended up in foreclo- sure. "Bad financial decisions by management translates into a bad environment," said Tim Figge, who pur- chased two buildings in the neighborhood last year. When new owners like Figge came on the scene, many of the buildings were renovated and updated, and some of the rental units were' converted to condos, with more condo conver- sions planned in the future. Figge said one of the first things he did when he bought his buildings was to paint over the gang graffiti scrawled across the exterior. "It was the kind of stuff that ... it just had an uncom- fortable feeling," he said. In addition to cosmetic improvements, all of the buildings now operate under an association with more stringent rules, such as man- datory screening of tenants. "We have new owners with new energy and ideas, and it's looking pretty prom- ising," said Jenni Wood, who owns one of the newly -re- modeled buildings and man- ages the owner's association for what is now called Eagan Hills Condominiums. Even with major improve- ments, the units remain af- fordable, with three -bed- room condos available from about $140,000 to $160,000. "The improvements the association has made there are improving the quality of life," said Eagan Police Officer Danielle Ansel- ment. "They're doing such "We're an example of how a community really can make a difference." — Tim Figge BUILDING OWNER V-v1• d7 a good job over there. Calls for service are significantly down from four or five years ago." These days, Figge said, police "don't have a whole lot to do here anymore. Just in the last year we've seen a tremendous transition." National Night Out is a good way for neighbors to get out and get to know each other, he said. "We have such a good in- ternational flavor here," he said. Plans for the evening in- clude a cookout, a tea party for moms and daughters featuring different varieties of Indian tea, face painting, Scrabble, and basketball. The neighborhood chil- dren are particularly excited about the event, he said. "The kids are bugging me every day. They think ev- ery day is Aug. 7," he said. "There's a huge amount of interest from the 6- to 16- year-old camp." A chess tournament was added to the menu at the suggestion of one resident fifth -grader. "We're an example of how a community really can make a difference," he said. "It's one thing to stop the bleeding, it's another thing to renew health." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. forward to viewing, see today's Dining & Entertainment pages. To view pictures of south of the river performers, visit www.thisweek-online.com/arts.html. nicate to people," she said. She also said Fringe provided their group with a largely non - Chinese audience, whereas the audience for most their shows was often comprised of Chinese family members and friends. "The cool thing about the Fringe Festival is that it gives small groups an opportunity to share their art," she said. In addition to "Goddess of the East," the group's perfor- mance features traditional folk dances, as well as dances por- traying legends, such as "Fare- well My Concubine," staring Grace Chang, 17, of Savage. "It's a nice way to share Chi- nese culture because it's more fun to watch a performance than to read about it in a book or something," Chang said. Chang also plays one of the goddesses in "Goddess of the East," but said that her role in "Farewell My Concubine" was a little more difficult. "There's more acting instead of smiling and being pretty," she said. Chang's 15-year-old sister, Jessica, also dances in "God- dess of the East." Kathy Bakke, who spent many years teaching piano in Eagan, combines her love for the instrument with a knack for story telling creating, "The Funny Side — Muddles Make Memories." One minute the Richfield resident will reminisce about her misadventures loving horses and the next the "William Tell Overture" will pour from her piano — residing in people's minds as the all -too -familiar "Lone Ranger" theme. "Every story will hold inter - Legends est and some of them are touch- ing and some of them are quite funny," she said. Preparing for her first Fringe Festival, she said, was more work than she expected. "It's a very consuming proj- ect between the PR and the preparation, and you want it to be a really top-notch perfor- mance," she said. "But it's been a very wonderful experience." Bakke set aside the entire month of July for Fringe prepa- ration. The Fringe "The awesome thing, too, about being in the Fringe is being able to go and see other shows," said Bidgood. "Last year (Lund) saw something like 30 shows and I saw 16 or 20 shows." "I've just seen some really wonderful stuff," said Galvin. The 2007 Minnesota Fringe Festival features 162 shows in 22 venues around Minneapolis. This is the annual festival's 14th year offering "fringe" perform- ers an opportunity to display their art to a wide audience — which totaled 44,692 people in 2006. For artists to be considered for the Fringe they submit an application, which is drawn from a lottery. Artists who win the drawing and elect to be in- volved then pay a fee that cov- ers venue space, as well as a tech crew, box office attendants, a spot in the Fringe Festival program and on their Web site, plus 65 percent of their box of- fice profits. The Fringe does promote the overall festival, buteach show is responsible for promoting its own works. Check Please 1munit; With the Community, For the Commun akota Count process for the county's 2020 comp] hensive plan, which must be complet in 2008. While the program technically wra up in October, the county will keep t web page running for people to tra progress and the website also offers list suggested places for indoor walkii during winter. Information about wint activities, such as snowshoeing ar cross-country skiing will also be se. out to participants. Even though grant money for the pr gram is scheduled to dry up after th year, county officials said they wou. look to keep the program going in sorr form. "We're hoping to get more people 1 participate and keep it going down t1 road," said Ambroz. Community Health Coordinatc Howard Epstein said keeping the prc gram going in some capacity would be priority. "It's really exceeded my expect tions," he said. "We're going to keep th thing going in one way or anothe whether our grant funding continues o not, because there are so many peopl interested." For information on the program or t sign up, residents can visit wwwdakota countyus and search "Simple Steps." (You are invited to comment about thi story on our website at www.mnsun.con and/or write a letter to the editor at sun currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) SUN 750 Vol. 32, No. 31 In the Co County fair is seeking diverse crowd GRANT IOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS The biggest community celebration in the county is back and this time organizers are working to ensure it reaches out to the entire community. Among new activities at the Dakota County Fair, which runs Aug. 6-12 at the fairgrounds in Farmington, are one night featuring Latino music and Mexican food and another featuring entertainment based in the Hmong cul- ture. "We've had a constant influx of new cultures into the county," said the fair's General Manager Bill Minnehan, going back to the 1800s when large German and Norwegian populations came to the area. "We want [more cultures] to start coming and start exhibiting." FAIR: TO PAGE 12A Eagan's night with the town 150 block parties planned for National Night Out GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS It's a night to party, and it's police - approved. Eagan will join the country in cele- brating the 24th Annual National Night Out 5:30-9:30 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 7. The Eagan Police Department is expecting 150 block parties, where neighbors can kick back and get to know each other. For the police department, it's also a night where officers can talk to the pub- lic in a non -threatening way. "The neighborhoods are able to meet the people that typically work in their neighborhood," said Officer Jill Ondrey, who is organizing this year's event for the department. NIGHT OUT: TO PAGE 13A 2007 summer sale SAVE UP TO S100 ON •;i,;iL"• Heating & Cooling Systems WRATE ER IT TAKES" IIP Al IAIIf' flirt'. Bow & RADIANT Comfort" Installation :hanicalinc.com North Metro 763-434-7747 South Metro 651-452-2025 To School Sale! South * Burnsville * MN * 55337 * 952-882-8300 ve * Minnetonka * MN * 55305 * 952-591-1040 VW.STEPNSTRETCH.COM * * * * t9TH - AUGUST 11TH $20.00 Split -Sole Tie Jazz Leo 7038 Reg. Price $28.50 $25.00 BLE. Slip-on Jazz Bloch S0495 Reg. Price $36.00 ST 12TH - AUGUST 25TH apply to group 0* special orders. Safe on In -stock Items on/y. 8 Saturday 10 to 6 Sunday 12 to 5 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com —Thursday, Aug. 2, 2007 — Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 13A Night Out FROM PAGE 1A "It's very laid-back. People can talk to the officers about whatever." The department, which will have about 35 officers taking part in the festivities, gave out 100 packs of four Minnesota Twins tickets for this year's event, and winners will be drawn at those parties. Ondrey said the police would also be giv- ing out goodies such as pens, water bottles and emergency preparedness kits. As the department was only able to accommodate 130 parties last year, there will be a few new neighborhood gatherings this year. Resident Julie Jensen decided to host her neighborhood's party this year at Northview Park. "We've lived in our neighborhood for eight or nine years, and every year I think of doing something with the kids," said Jensen. After getting an early start on prepar- ing for the party, Jensen was able to secure party materials from eight or nine local businesses for the Lexington Square party, which includes about 300 houses. "It was very easy to get people to step up and help," said Jensen, as through her work she was able to get subs from Jimmy John's and bottled water from Byerly's grocery store. Her neighbor- hood will also have a canned food drive at the party for the local food shelf. Tim Figge, who owns a rental property in Wescott Square, is organizing this year's party for the townhome develop- ment east of the Carriage Hills Golf Course, which will include face painting, a tea party for mothers and girls and a punt, pass and kick competition. There will also be a barbeque for all ages. "It's 100 percent more than what we did last year," said Figge, who said more peo- ple moving into the area in the past year has led to a greater sense of community. A big part of National Night Out is community building, which can lead to crime prevention. "People just don't know who their neigh- bors are, and often that's half the battle," Ondrey said, adding that once people know their neighbors, it's easier to recognize sus- picious activity in the neighborhood. Figge said parents in the neighborhood should make an effort to make themselves known to youth. "We never worried about the cops when we were doing stupid things as kids," he said. "It was the other guys' moms." Jensen said neighbors could use the event to create a phone lists to distribute throughout the neighborhood, so they could call for even something as simple as letting the neighbor know that their garage door was open at night. "At least you can get in touch with them then if something would happen," she said. For more information on National Night Out activities, visit wwwcityofea- gan.com and click on the link to the police department's page or call 651-675-5700. (Comment about this story at www.mnsun.com and/or writea letter to the editor at suncurrentsouth(aacnpapets.com.) 14A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current - Thursday, Aug. 2, 2007 — www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community BULLETIN B OARD 952-392-6888 BULLETIN BOARD is an advertising section of Sun Newspapers. Readers are encouraged to be aware that some advertisers may require an additional fee. Sun Newspapers has not investigated and accepts no responsibility for the truth, statements or products offered by these advertisers. DECK CLEANING & STAINING Professional, Prompt, Guaranteed Results 763-559-1832 North 952-352-9986 West 651-699-3504 South rooftodeck.com 10°/ off with mention of this ad. 4 Hall FROM PAGE 9A when she was featured on the back of a Wheaties box. During her tenure at BHS, she also competed in track and partici- pated in cheerleading. After graduating in 1975, Burak went on to the University of Minnesota, where she competed on the gymnastics team for three years. She was involved in Campus Crusade for Christ, lead Bible studies groups and joined Athletes in Action, a Christian sports ministry. Burak earned a degree in physical education and coaching and continues her involvement with Athletes in Action. Bob Lattery Bob and his wife, Audrey, live in Burnsville and have three sons and seven grandchildren. Will Williams One of Will Williams' favorite high school memories was meeting his wife, Janet (Bohn). They were two of 14 mem- bers of the Class of 1958; she asked him to the school's first Sadie Hawkins Dance. He also remembers scoring the only touchdown during one year's homecom- ing game against Waconia. "In fact, Bob Lattery threw me the pass," he said. "We didn't score many touchdowns in the first couple of years." A member of the foot- ball, basketball and base- ball teams in 1956 ♦.. 17 .,, 1 CA ea, 1nC0 1XT; 11• AGAN * AUGUST 2, 2007 CURRENT munity, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com SPORTS Special report on golf, part two PAGE 22A SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Kathleen Gilbertson, Eagan's animal -control expert, is retiring after over 28 years with the city. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) Doing it for the love of animals Eagan animal -control expert retires after 28 years with the city GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS She was ready to quit after the second day. But 28 years later, on her last day of work, Kathleen Gilbertson couldn't help but feel a little sad. As Gilbertson was cleaning out her office and writing farewell e-mails to coworkers, she recalled what she said was her toughest day as the city of Eagan's animal control expert. On her second day of work, Gilbertson was called to a farm — when she started Eagan still had a good num- ber of rural properties. What she saw next couldn't compare to any expecta- tions she had for the job. Upon entering a barn, Gilbertson found a boa constrictor, a goat, a kitten and — to her horror — a dead Doberman pinscher. Her job was to get all of them out and bring them to safety, and she didn't have any help. "A few officers walked in with me, looked at the situation and walked right out," said Gilbertson. She had first inquired about being a dispatcher but then was asked about being a dogcatcher, which she thought would be fun. Before she got the job, Gilbertson had plenty of experience with dogs as a trainer and an obedience teacher, but she hadn't had much experience with more exotic animals. "I knew nothing about farm animals and wildlife," she said. But Gilbertson knew she had a job HmedboasHOME VALU® CONSUMER REBATES • PLUS FREE UPGRADES to do. She found a gunnysack to hold the snake, then tied a rope to the goat and the dead dog and led them out of the barn while the kitten held onto her shoulder. She then took the ani- mals to a lab at the University of Minnesota to be held before the owner showed up. It was found that the dog had died of malnutrition, and its owner was to be charged with animal cruelty. "He was really creepy," Gilbertson said. The experience led Gilbertson to wonder what she had gotten herself into. "I had to write my first citation," she said. "I didn't know how to write a tick- et. It just blindsided me. I thought I was not the right person for the job. I went home and cried." GILBERTSON: TO PAGE 10A LOOK INSIDE THIS SECTION FOR MONEY -SAVING INSERTS 2A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, Aug. 2, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Co GREAT HAIR flOOS OF AIIPJCA disco bat). ThE PRitmtLTImL GREAT WINES OF AMERICP L i V lN9STONCe 1LAR s.COM Taking it to the sidewalks in Program aims at getting residents on consistent walking schedule GRANT BRELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS More than 1,000 residents have found the equivalent of a good walking stick in a new Dakota County program. The county's Simple Steps program, which is in its first run this summer with the help of a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield, is aimed at giving residents tools and incentives for getting out to the county's trails and sidewalks for reg- ular exercise. Interested residents receive a trail guide and can log their walking history on the county's website to be eligible for prizes, which include water bottles and pedometers. County officials say the program has become quite popular, as money from a livable communities grant from Blue Cross made its start possible. More than 1,000 participants have already signed up and new members can sign up until Aug. 15. The county is hoping to get more participants before it closes. "The whole program is designed around having people make behavior changes," said Teresa Ambroz, a com- munity health specialist with the coun- ty that is coordinating the program. "We don't want it to be competitive." Ambroz said the program is aimed at Woolley"c ( ST. PAYL FEATURING NEW MENU Purchase one entree at regular price and receive the 2nd entree FREE of equal or lesser value Not valid on appetizers. salad bar or desserts. Not valid with any other offers. Expires August 18^, 2007. Must present this coupon. Not valid holidays. Good Mon -Fri lunch and Sun-Thurs dinner. IN Happy Hour M-F Lunch • Sat & Sun Dinner 4-7 pm 8PQ of Well Drinks & Wine Mia Dorr . 7-10 pm SingerNocalist 'ues & Wed Validated Parking 651-224-5111 e M B A 8 s Y S U I T E S 175 E. 10th Street HOTEL• St. Paul, MN55101 women ages 25 to 54 who are not usually active. Participants can receive prizes for walking once a week and are encour- aged to walk in groups. However, people of all ages and walks of life are invited to participate. "It's helped me to continue with a walking program," said Kathie Hanson, a planning and personnel secretary with the city of Rosemount. "Walking is easi- er to stick with than any [fitness] pro- gram and it's free." Hanson walks with one of her cowork- ers daily during her lunch hour and they both participate in the program. "You're not on your own," she said, as she has also found the trail guide and a newsletter sent out to participants helpful. Apple Valley resident Laura Brandel has participated in the Breast Cancer 3- Day Walk for the last three years and has found the program to be a great way to keep her training on track. While both Brandel and Hanson agree on the physical benefits of regular walking, they said there are also other bonuses. "It's a great stress reliever," said Brandel. "It gives you time to talk." "It's a good break from work," said Hanson. "It's therapeutic in that way." The county has also benefited from the program, as 50 of the program's par- ticipants have submitted suggestions on how the county and its cities could do to make things easier on walkers. Part of the aim of the program was to gather information to use in the planning co GAMW Save Up to ' 1680 With discounts, rebates and tax credits Available on immediate installation only. Utility rebates vary by city. • _AID MCA'`b1 A A Tit 1 IWtt.VI tA1 HEATING, COOLING Pnlosibleallen "Creating Custom Since 1985 nareapTeetainse Getlecallue w UTE 24-Hour Service, Sal Order filters at www 13903 Aldrich Avenue 12957 Ridgedale Dri * * * * w SHOE SALE JULY $15.00 Bi0(H Full Sole Ballet $15.00 B10(0 Patent Leather Tap Bloch S0350 Reg price $23 00 CLOTHING SALE AUGU Body Wrappers, Capezio, and Motionwear Brand Clothi Frequent Buyer Cards are e., eue b .sa/e abes not Store Hours: Monday - Friday 10 t. In the Community,With the Community, For the Community Gilbertson FROM PAGE 1A It was then Gilbertson learned she would be more than just a dogcatcher. However, she said the toughest part of the job is what she will miss the most. "I'll probably miss the most what I hated most," she said. "That was help- ing abused animals." As a child growing up in south Minneapolis, Gilbertson took care of a multitude of animals, from snapping turtles to parakeets. These days, she and her husband own three Chihuahuas. While one might imagine a self - described dogcatcher as the enemy of stray dogs, a big part of Gilbertson's job was being an animal advocate. She remembered one time in Apple Valley when a woman thanked her for inter- vening when she and her husband were reported for neglecting their dog. "That was really something. It was almost monumental," she said. "If it's not horrific neglect, education will work. You have to have somebody that's driven to change." While Gilbertson has her share of sad stories, she also has had plenty of feel -good stories, not to mention the bizarre tales. She plans to someday record all of them in a book — like the time she got a call from a concerned mom who said her son had a candy bar stolen from a crow that said, "I like candy" "She told me she thought she was going crazy," said Gilbertson. It turned out that a neighbor was the owner of a bird she called Edgar Allen Crow, who she had taught to tell her son, "I like Andy" As she leaves her post, Gilbertson said could not stress enough the impor- tance of taking pet ownership seriously. "The most important message I want to give people is when you get an animal, you should love it until death," she said. "It's up to a 15-year commitment, or longer." There will be an open house for Gilbertson 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3, at Eagan City Hall, 3830 Pilot Knob Road. It is open to the public. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) In the Community, With the Community, For the Community A group of great grads: BHS t HEATHER VOORHEES • SUN NEWSPAPERS For many, high school is the best time of their lives. For the six new inductees to Burnsville High School's Hall of Fame, high school success was only a prelude to lives full of volunteerism, dedication and excellence. Six new members will be inducted during a ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, at International Chef's Culinary Center in the Heart of the City. They will join last year's 20 inductees. The Hall of Fame began last year, in conjunction with the high school's 50th anniversary. Members' photos and biographical information hang in the main hallway of the school. Thomas B. Mraz Mraz, who taught language arts and cting classes at the high school from 1961 to 1991, is still known as the face of BHS theatre. _ g� "This morning, I got an e-mail from a friend in San Diego who has Burnsville roots," said Mraz's son, Mike. "He said, `I ran into the fact our director of the BHS theatre program and producer of SHOWTIME, a high school touring theatre program started in 1963 that performed at state and federal penal institutions around the Midwest. He also served as the voice of the Burnsville Braves and started the BHS Scholarship Program, raising more than $10,000 annu- ally from community donors. "I think he had a real faith in the process of education and he understood how important his position was in the nurturing of young people," Mike said. "His passion was to provide them with experiences that would assist them in development, but also give them what he would call a chain link fence of memo- ries they could draw from as they made decisions in adult life." In 1991, the school's arts center was renamed the Thomas B. Mraz Center for Performing Arts. Mraz and his wife, Ann, had three sons, all of whom graduated from BHS: Mike in 1974, Mark in 1978 and Monty in 1980. Thomas and Ann currently live in Harmony, Minn., her hometown. 1: e U I• B, at a to t D Because the n Use is up, but water levels OK As drought affects cities throughout the state, Eagan's water levels are within 'the comfort zone' by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Despite the drought, Ea- gan's water levels are within the comfort zone, albeit the upper limits of the comfort zone, according to the city. While some cities have been struggling with their water supply during this unusually dry summer, Eagan has not had to enact stricter water- ing bans, Director of Public Works Tom Colbert said. Even though there is no of- ficial water shortage, Colbert cautions that Eagan is still feeling the pinch. See Water, 9A d Caravan SXT THE SXT PLUS Leather Seats — Heated Seats, Video, Wireless Headphones, Infinity Speakers. Seat, 3-Zone Temp Control, In -Dash 6-Disc 1 CDIDVDIMP3 /Z'lYr'✓'r Js t" payment & tic. ='235 t^ payment & Iiic�= $3O9 ! MSRP Rebate Discount laaj, Owner Loy Bucket Seats, Power Seat, Rear Seat $22,140 08 Aven Nicely Equlpfx 111111 lot EAGAN Postal facility remains on track City still planning for shift of operation from St. Paul BY FREDERICK MELO Pioneer Press Still smarting from failed attempts to get state tax breaks for a stymied expansion at Thomson West, Eagan officials hope the U.S. Postal Service will pick up some of the slack. The Postal Service, which employs 500 workers at a bulk - mail facility on Lexington Avenue South, has prepared drawings for a 600,000-square- foot addition. With construction likely to cost more than $200 million, the project would replace distribution operations at the Depression -era post office building on downtown St. Paul's riverfront Kellogg Boulevard. Eagan officials reviewed early design plans for the Lex- ington Avenue project July 18, and an environmental assess- ment and traffic analysis is expected on the 92-acre site in the fall. POSTAL FACILITY, 4B ier the person responsible for the off hit and run. — Andy Rathbun IN BUSINESS NEW VENTURES Heartland Credit Union opened a new headquarters building July 30 at 5500 Robert Trail 5., Inver Grove Heights. Membership is available to businesses or individuals who nt live, work, worship, volunteer or attend school in Dakota lty County. he Home Federal Savings Bank opened a business banking office at 2805 Dodd Road, Eagan. Janet Alland was t named senior vice president and Scott Swenson was named ld market president and senior vice president. Rochester -based Home Federal Savings Bank is at a subsidiary of HMN Financial Inc. ?ff Compiled by Kathy Henderson, khenderson@pioneerpress.com, 651-228-5436. Send your business happenings to Kathy by e-mail or to 345 Cedar St., St. Paul, MN 55101. TACT US COUNTY TEAM pioneerpress.com Andy Rathbun, news assistant, 651-228-2121, e-mail: arathbun@ pioneerpress.com Advertising: Jody Hencier, 651-228-5342; Gary Schultz, 651-228- 5359 Water/from 1 A This summer, daily water use by residents has been almost equal to the water use during the peak day last summer. In 2006, the maximum water usage in one day was 25.3 mil- lion gallons. This summer, the daily use has been between 23 million and 26 million gallons. "What's a little unique about this summer is it's been continu- ous," he said. Colbert credits two things with Eagan's ability to avoid further water bans: the city's investment in its infrastructure to make sure the water supply, production, and storage needs of the community are met, and the high level of compliance among residents with the city's permanent watering restric- tions. Helping meet the demand are the recently expanded North Water Treatment Facil- ity and two new wells the city implemented two years ago. The expansion of the North Water plant increased its treat- ment capacity from 14 million gallons of water per day to 26 million gallons per day, and the South Water plant is able to process an additional 12 million gallons per day. The limitations during a dry summer, however, include the ability to pull water from the aquifer to meet the communi- ty's needs. That's where Eagan's water towers come in. The res- ervoirs help supplement the wa- ter supply during times of heavy use. The city also has two reserve wells at the ready just in case. The permanent watering re- strictions that the city has had in effect since 1991 have made a big difference, Colbert said. The odd/even restrictions are based on house addresses. If your address ends in an odd number, you can water your lawn on odd days of the month. If it ends in an even number, you can water on even days of the month. Of course, those restrictions wouldn't be effective if residents didn't comply with them. But Eagan has a high level of com- pliance among residents, Col- bert said. "We've had 16 years of build- ing a culture in our community that so many people understand it and comply with it," he said. "We're so pleased with the level of compliance that we have." Colbert recently drove around the city on a hot Friday night to check out compliance for himself. "I had a hard time finding violations," he said. Violations typically come WE BUY USED GEAR ALL DAY, EVERY DAY! Check out our 2 Metro Locations: Burnsville • 14025 Grand Ave. S. (952) 435-3003 (35W & Cry 42. NE frontage road In McAndrews Center) Roseville • 1722 N. Lexington Ave. (651) 487-5600 (Lexington & Larpenteur. NE corner in Lexington Plata) BUY • SELL • TRADE Bring in this ad for 10% OFF Your Next Purchase. Offer expires 1130'07 from new residents who aren't aware of the restrictions. First- time violators are given infor- mation about the odd/even restrictions, and a second vio- lation brings a warning. Third violations can bring a fine of up to $700. "I don't think we've ever had to give a third notice," he said. The permanent restrictions are in effect throughout the entire outdoor watering sea- son. They apply to all property within the city, and the only ex- ceptions are for new sod, seed or landscaping for the first three weeks of planting. For more in- formation, call (651) 675-5300. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inw com. 2oo7 ALL -NEW SILVERADO 25ooHD 43E4 StO #71309 Grossman's Best Price from $23,995 30 TO CHOOSE FROM!! MEM USED VEHICLES Rates As Low As 5 YEAR/ioo,000 MILE WARRANTY 'f200'7 STS SUNROOF ANTI -LOCK BRAKES, AWD- NAVIGATION, ISB PACKAGE Grossman's One Best Pri 45,375 MSRP $53,420 2007 STS SUNROOF AWD, ANTI -LOCK BRAKES AND MUCH MORE Grossman's One Best Price s 4389898 MSyQ$46,740 Y. LIBERTY. AN R?e ion d n ill in of v- all 21 n- ity or es- m. st ne wo for all 32- ted ast ple r. in Lakeville will hold its annual youth rummage sale Aug. 10- 11. The sale will benefit youth f programs and mission trips, such as the recent trip to the g Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky. More than 300 9 families are contributing. Sale hours will be 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11; $5 bag sale and large items half price from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday; and a free-will of- fering from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. CrossRoads Church is lo- d cated at 17671 Glacier Way, Lakeville, behind Cub Foods at Dodd and Cedar. For more information, contact the church office at (952) 469- 7729. New lead pastor at Valley Christian Church Following a two-year search, Valley Christian Church in Lakeville has named Dave Burkum as its new lead pastor beginning Aug. 12. Burkum comes to the con- gregation following 15 years as campus minister with Chris- tian Student Fellowship on the campus of the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. In addition to preaching, he is also an accomplished mu- sician, with several albums to his credit as singer/song- writer/guitarist. He has even conducted the orchestra for the annually televised Dove Awards. Valley Christian Church is located just north of the inter- section of Cedar Avenue and Dodd Road, 17297 Glacier Way. Sunday morning services are at 9 and 10:30 a.m. For more information, visit Tradition Excitement SMSC Tribal r t ti1�73�1 ail4PjaM&�'43 . Cl ., $3-.111-3 qkja Dance (Contests OOver,$130 000 in prizes R www.valleycc.org or www. burkum.com. St. Mathias Fun Fest is Aug. 26 St. Mathias Parish of Hampton will hold its annual Fun Fest on Sunday, Aug. 26. Activities will include a polka Mass at 10 a.m. with music by the Melody Makers. The polka band will also sup- ply music for the afternoon festivities. Food will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the country store will be open for visitors. The Fun Fest will feature games for all ages, and a put- ting contest will be held on the newly paved parking lot with a chance to win $5,000. There will be a silent auc- tion and entertainment throughout the day. A live auction will begin at approxi- mately 3 p.m. Women's conference South Suburban Evangeli- cal Free Church of Apple Val- ley will host a women's confer- ence titled "Equipped for the King," Friday and Saturday. Sept. 28-29. Elizabeth Inrig, former National Women's Ministries director for the Evangelical Free Church of America, will talk about the ways God has equipped people for service. The conference includes general sessions with Inrig, large group praise and wor- ship times and an array of workshops. There will be an time for fellowship and share some meals together. For more information and to register visit www ssefc. org. St s 10 -a!f,t ,,3 3 �,il L�l}T 1t i' 71�13aram 2321z3•fl�l t1T-um4Mai3.i n, "7Ttifl Trrinirn I3 010 urp - = f es AKAN al renter unday, 0a; m. -- Giveaways ?F'itiay Noon to.6 00 p m 'Saturoay :8'Sunaay,after 9 00 a.m 'Flag Raising hicW//'/e7 Eagan Police Department urges back -to -school bus safety The Eagan Police Depart- ment is urging families to have discussions with their children about school -bus safety and to remind motorists to pay atten- tion to the bus safety laws. Children who know where they can wait and how to walk around the bus significantly re- duce the risk of being involved in an accident. Motorists who are more aware also help with school -bus safety. As part of back -to -school homework, the Eagan Police Department, along with the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association, encourages resi- dents to know their bus safe- ty laws and what to tell their children to do to be safe -to - school. In addition, motorists who fail to stop for a school bus with red lights flashing and the stop arm extended may be charged with a gross mis- demeanor punishable by a $3,000 fine and/or one year in jail. Anyone seeking more in- formation about school safety is encouraged to contact the Police Department at (651) 675-5700 and ask for the crime prevention office. That levy won't kick in until the 2009-10 school year, and it will be added to prop- erty taxes beginning in 2009. If the second levy is ap- proved, it would cost the owner of a home valued at $250,000 an additional $68 per year in property taxes. Both levies would increase with the rate of inflation. Beyond 2010, the district's funding will depend on the Legislature and enrollment numbers, Haugen said. But if the two levies are approved, the district's future looks good, he said. "We're confident this will make us stable for the fore- seeable future," he said. The district plans to put all of the information about the levies on its Web site and will also mail the informa- tion to residents. Brochures will also be available, and Haugen will speak to community groups interested in learning more. A public meeting on the issue is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 22 at Garlough El- ementary School. Updated information on the meeting will be available on the dis- trict's Web site, www.isd197. org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 4A October 20, 2007 THISWEEK Opinion Guest Editotial imminwr Worthy schools, vital needs, reasonable requests by Jay Haugen SCHOOL DISTRICT 197 SUPERINTENDENT "How can anyone not support this?" I hear that question many times at every presentation I give about our district's levy referendum on Nov. 6. The need is that clear. The cost is that reasonable. And the stakes are that high. Excellence worth preserving With 4,500 students, District 197 is a small, innovative district with stable enrollment. Recent honors include a Federal Blue Ribbon School, and just last week the College Board recognized Henry Sibley for student success in Advanced Placement math, science and technology. Some of our high school students pass so many AP courses they enter college as sophomores! Innovative programs funded largely by grants include a new K- 4 magnet school in partnership with Dodge Nature Center and a wonderful high school program called ALMAS, which has helped lower the Latino drop -out rate to less than 10 percent compared to 39 percent in Minnesota and 50 percent in the nation. Why replacing the expiring levy is critical No matter how innovative we are, though, there is simply no way to fund excellence unless voters replace our expiring levy. Without a replacement levy, our district's deficit will be $3.8 mil- lion next year — roughly 9 percent of the budget. The following year's deficit would be $5.1 million — the equivalent of eliminating all 70 elementary teachers in the district: Our existing levy is going away, but we are not alone in need- ing help: 99 Minnesota school districts are currently asking voters for local support because levies are one way our Legislature has chosen to fund education. The funding problem is further com- pounded by government mandates. For example, our district has a $4 million gap between what we receive for special education services and what we are required to spend. Increasing costs also take their toll. If we were a city or county, we would simply increase our levy to meet rising costs. In Min- nesota, however, schools must ask voters to help them meet basic needs. Since schools are the only opportunity voters have to say no, this is never an easy process. Two ballot questions to fund the basics Our School Board understands this and so, after the defeat of last year's referendum, is requesting the minimum amount needed to maintain excellence. There are no new initiatives, no promised class -size reductions. The first question simply replaces the expiring levy with the amount needed to maintain current class sizes and programs next • ul • ak - ffect in 2008. The second question asks voters Letters Vote for Ewald in District 196 To the editor: As a District 196 parent who cares greatly about the quality of education, I am pleased to support the candidacy of Sha- lom Ewald for School Board. Shalom is a high-energy professional who is committed to maintaining the high stan- dards of educational excellence for which District 196 has be- come known. As the involved parent of five boys from ages 3 to 12, Shalom has firsthand knowledge of what goes on in our school buildings on a daily basis. She brings creative ideas and a fresh perspective to the important job of educating students and providing a posi- tive, rewarding work environ- ment for teachers and other staff members. Shalom is the only challeng- er vying for one of the seats now held by four incumbents. The four incumbents have of- fered four, eight, 15 and 18 years of service to the School Board and are to be thanked for their many contributions to District 196. Considering that the three board members not up for re-election have served 13, 14 and 18 years, I have con- cluded that this election offers an exciting chance to bring some new representation onto the board. I like the idea of having the perspective of an active parent volunteer repre- sented on our School Board, as only one of the seven cur- rent members still has children enrolled in District 196. With a minimum of three incumbents returning to join three long -serving members on the board, I feel the time is ri admit that the present city ad- ministrator already operates more like a manager. What they don't tell you is that if the City Council wants to formally change to a city manager, it can be done without the need for a charter. Second, they claim we need a charter to implement poli- cies which better support open space. Eagan already pos- sesses approximately 69 acres of parkland and open space per thousand people, which is more than twice the national average. Most concepts proposed by the Charter Commission are merely watered-down, plagia- rized versions of concepts the City Council has already been considering. The argument for a charter is a ruse, a Trojan Horse. It is a way to get in the door many things which this same group proposed three years ago, when the charter was defeated by 80 percent of voters. Any charter supporter who claims other- wise is not being candid. To schedule an election to amend a charter once it is passed only requires a petition of voters "equal in number to 5 percent of the total votes cast at the last previous state gen- eral election in the city" (Minn. Stat. Section 410.12). Imagine as few as 5 percent of voters telling us what we have to vote for, perhaps in fu- . ture special elections. Eagan does not need this kind of major overhaul. If you have any doubts about the pro- posed Charter, vote no. The worst that could hap- pen is continued governance by one of the best managed cities in the state. vote if the city would want to sell any current park or open space they own or control. An open space preservation fund would be established with a transfer of $25,000 from the general fund. Note — The charter would not impact taxes. The City Council makes the decisions that impact taxes. For more detailed informa- tion, please visit www.charter- foreagan.com and www.char- tercommission.com. Vote YES on Nov. 6, 2007. BETTY FEDDE Charter Commission member Eagan Reject the charter again To the editor: In 2004, more than 80 per- cent of Eagan voters rejected changing our very successful form of government to a less efficient charter government. What made sense then still makes sense today. Eagan is a near -perfect ex- ample of a fiscally responsible city. Eagan spends less per capita than most cities of our size, but still provides excellent city services. In contrast, the tax rate in most cities under a charter form of government reflects higher taxes. Why sup- port an unnecessary, unelected additional layer of govern- ment? Eagan residents rejected this idea once and should do it again. And yet, if you can believe it, charter supporters actually claim that forcing this election on short notice is somehow sav- ing the taxpayers money. This ntl false claim is extreme- Coun Opera house event set for Oct. 27 by Laura Adelmann I HISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A significant change is soon to take place in Dakota County, and its success will be measured by how seamlessly it occurs. On Dec. 10, 911 calls in the county will be handled by op- erators at the Dakota Com- munications Center in Eureka Township. The securely designed, bun- ker -like block building holds 140 emergency operator sta- tions. It also includes offices, a large computer and storage room, a kitchen break room featuring three refrigerators — one for each shift — and a quiet room for emergency operators to find a moment of relaxation and quiet. Because of its secure nature, the building is not readily acces- sible to visitors, but the public may attend an open house from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Oct. 27. The event will follow a building dedication set for 10 a.m. Emergency calls will be taken in a large centralized room that receives daylight from near - rooftop level windows. Security concerns don't allow windows at eye level where operators are working. The building also has a lock- er room and a workout room, thus far equipped with a couple of used treadmills. More equipment is expected soon, DCC Executive Director Kent Therkelsen said. The amenities are to help al- leviate stress in what can be a high-pressure job, and to pro- vide additional comforts if, dur- ing an emergency situation, op- erators must remain on the job for extended periods of time. "Our plan is that if we have a pandemic or something where we have to isolate this building or the staff, we want that abil- TF4$SWEEK Ocioben 20 2007 3A1r ide 911 center opening in December ity," Therkelsen said. Each 911 operator station is equipped with cutting -edge computerized telephones, and push-button adjustable desks that quietly adjust to accom- modate any standing or sitting position. Through the center, a joint powers agreement between all local governments in the coun- ty, six independent emergency call centers will consolidate into one. The change, Therkelsen said, will help to coordinate emer- gency response across jurisdic- tional boundaries. He added it will save tax- payer money through greater efficiency. Dakota County estimates show operational costs are ex- pected to save taxpayers $2.4 million during the center's first three years, but Therkelsen said the public shouldn't notice a change in service. "It's still going to be the same responders ... if you're in Eagan, you're still going to get an Eagan Police officer ... The real impact of this is more heavily on the responders than the public," Therkelsen said. "I think we're going to be pleased with how it works." Preparations have been un- der way since 2005, when all local city councils and Dakota County officials entered into a joint powers agreement to cre- ate the DCC. Collaboration has defined the consolidation, with an at- tempt to allow equal say in gov- ernance issues and fee amounts set to reflect the amount of calls an area typically receives. Dakota County isn't the first government to establish a joint dispatch center, but it is lead-. ing the way on the method by which it has done so. "I think the model is going to draw some attention, doing it as a group rather than a single - agency approach." Therkelsen Budget Insulation Inc. Photo by Laura Adelman Dakota County Communications Center Executive Director Kent Therkelsen stands in the room where all 911 calls will be taken beginning Dec. 10. said. The DCC 2008 total budget is $7.817 million, with Eagan providing 18 percent of the funding ($941,364), Burnsville paying 17 percent ($893,773), and Apple Valley contributing 12.6 percent ($658,955) of the operating funds. In 2008, Farmington will contribute $320,403; Lake- ville $761,537 and Rosemount $325,946. The DCC budget also in- cludes a seven-year bond debt of about $1 million. This year, Dakota County is contributing $1.75 million toward start-up costs and will pay 6.97 percent of the bill ($364,5174) in 2008. The coun- ty will also contribute an addi- tional $1.4 million to the proj- ect next year. County contributions will decline and end. In 2009, the county will fund the DCC with $250,000 and $163.000 in 2010. Therkelsen said the center will pay for itself in efficiencies and he is looking forward to getting the dispatch center op- erating. He said it has been challeng- ing to coordinate the facility's opening, which has included training, executing agreements, determining governance and meeting construction deadlines. "It's been extremely intense, but in a good way," Therkelsen said, adding, "It's really excit- ing. This is such a big piece of our response infrastructure in Dakota County. This is really going to change how we do a lot of our business." Laura Adelmann is at dcedi tor@fron tiernet. net. Reclaim your life! We can help. www. watereedgechc. com THISWEEK October 20; 2o0i 5 Letters bankrupt 191. Tax dollars are funding field trips to Valleyfair, malls and movies for students in English as a second language. The state funds five years of ESL; the rest is on the school district. If we eliminated ESL, as other large states have, we would save millions. Minnesota education is not underfunded. Out of every dollar in taxes, 42 cents goes to E-12 education. Education Minnesota (the teachers union) commands a budget of more than $22 million a year and has 58 registered, paid lobbyists at the state Capitol to influence information about the levy, resi- dents can also visit the district Web site www.isd197.org. SUE MORTENSEN Mendota Heights Defeat charter, then Charter Commission To the editor: The behavior of the group forcing this special election has a lot to do with why I don't feel this pro -charter group is truly seeking to improve anything in our city. up the laws and include a way to stop this charter group from be- ing able to force costly elections on us any time they feel like it. That's right, as citizens, we do not have the right to vote on whether we want this charter question to end once and for all. Scary to think, we don't have the right to vote to end this non- sense. That doesn't sound like any type of improved form of government to me. Join me and vote no charter on Nov. 6. ROBERTA RYAN Eagan 6A October 20, 2007 THISWEEK I.awsuit/from 1 A MAC automatically miti- gates homes in the 65-plus noise -level contour. In 2004, the MAC cut funds for its noise abatement program and said it would offer only air conditioning to homes in the 60-64 noise -lev- el contour, and homeowners must pay half the cost. That decision impacted about 500 Eagan homes in the 60-64 contour that were expecting more comprehen- sive noise mitigation. If the settlement is ap- proved, those homes will get the option of two packages. One offers central air and $4,000 toward other noise insulation measures, and the other offers $14,000 — not including central air — to- ward noise insulation mea- sures. Most eligible homes are located in northeast Eagan and receive noise from the parallel runways that fly over the Eagan/Mendota Heights corridor. Only a few homes near Cedar Avenue and Highway 13 will see relief, according to the city. Homes affected by noise from the new north/south runway are not within the MAC's 60-64 noise contour. The MAC is expected to submit a map to the city this week that will make clear exactly which blocks are eli- gible for relief. The city will post the map on its Web site at www.cityofeagan.com Nearly 40 multifamily homes in Eagan are also ex- pected to be eligible for up to $1,500 in air-conditioning improvements. In addition, up to 177 Eagan homes that were in- cluded on MAC's 2005 noise contour map but not on its 2007 version may be eligible for $2,500 in relief options. The MAC's settlement of- fer for all three cities totals $127 million. If the settlement is ap- proved, relief measures for homeowners in Eagan will begin in December 2008 and be completed by December 2012. For more information on the settlement, contact the MAC at (612) 726-8100 or Dianne Miller at the City of Eagan at (651) 675-5014. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Because the news never stops E r 7 e1 2,7ar _ 7 City agrees to airpor noise settlement MAC will spend $7.4 million to mitigate noise for affected Eagan homes by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Hundreds of Eagan resi- dents who were promised insu- lation from airport noise could finally see relief after the city reached a settlement with the Metropolitan Airports Com- mission. The Eagan City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to approve a settlement of- fered by the MAC that would provide $7.4 million in noise insulation improvements for more than 500 Eagan homes. The homes are located in the 60-64 noise -level contours on the MAC's noise map. The settlement still has to be approved by the FAA, which has to make a decision by Nov. 30. This settlement should bring some well -deserved and long-awaited relief to affected •r Mike Mau- Eagan residents who ha been waiting a long time," said. "Homeowners closest t the airport's parallel runwa have had to live with una ceptable noise levels for mo than a decade." Eagan, along with Mi neapolis and Richfield, file a lawsuit against the MAC i 2005 over what it called br ken promises to homeowne impacted by airport noise. The cities claim that in 199 the MAC promised to insulat homes severely impacted b airport noise at no cost to ho meowners. The cities said they su ported an expansion of th airport at its current locatio based on the MAC's commit ment that homes in the 60- noise-level contour would re ceive mitigation. Mitigation generally in- cludes insulation, new doors, Appointment RK ON YOUR CAR BEFORE Wil D � c•• O 10/2?/0? IFFront wiper blades any coolant service this ad during write-up. )dge L YEAR END CE P❑\`. ERrRA City seeks TIF extension for Cedar Grove by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The city of Eagan will ask state lawmakers to pass special legislation that will extend by five years the term of the Ce- dar Grove redevelopment area as a TIF district. TIF, or tax increment fi- nancing, districts are created to help cities revitalize falter- ing areas. The TIF designation allows cities to help foster de- velopment and reinvestment in those areas, and developers are able to build on the expec- tation of future returns when the area's property values in- crease. TIF districts have five years to use TIF-generated revenues to pay for expenditures. Be- cause Cedar Grove was certi- fied as a TIF district by the county in 2003, its deadline would be next July. The area just got a new developer, however, and con- struction is expected to begin at the same time the TIF dead- line is reached, so there is still the potential that more spend- ing will be necessary, Director of Community Development Jon Hohenstein said. "Because we're working with a new developer on a new plan, we don't know yet if there's more spending to occur, but it's likely that there See TIF, 8A V9 In,1 .►jN aas Hard to Find! • 3.8.Aum • Rear PirMeati • it • Sasaeen • CO Player • Power wmd4 • Saw-n-Go Seall;Aiirras • Quad Seats 07 Grp ALL THE TOYS! Rear MD Entertainment • Power SeatsWn System LocksMirrors Leather Heated Seats • Power Lift -Gate a • Auto Temp Cont Sliding Doors ,r/at p 07 CHRYSLER SEBR 4tr, 2.41. 4-Cyl. FWO, � Stone Wile. Auto. ■—' 14,729 Mi 13200 07 DODGE CALIB 4drHOSr, 2.14- $1 W. FWD, Black, Aut. 3f 20,615 MI 901214 County, Eagan agree: no Denmark, no approval County, Postal Service agree to no signal at Gemini Road — for now by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Dakota County is set to join Eagan in refusing to sup- port a business expansion without the inclusion of a long -planned road project. The county board on Oct. 16 unanimously recommend- ed to refuse support of the U.S. Postal Service bulk mail expansion unless right of way for and construction of the Denmark Avenue connection is included. Eagan officials made a similar resolution Oct. 1, requiring USPS to connect fe114Z4: Denmark, a project estimated to cost $1.2 million to $1.4 million, according to county transportation director Mark Krebsbach. Expanding on previous re- ports to the board, Krebsbach said negotiations with USPS See Post Office, 8A 4dr Sedan 3 SL. V6. $M' RWO. Steel Blue Metallic. LV Auto, 11,088 Mi ince 4dr SXT, 3 5L. V6, Sliver $ 18,925 Steel Metallic, Auto, 19,407 Mi 13185 4dr Sedan, 3 5L. V6, RWD, s Bright Silver Metallic. Auto, 19,925 16,807 Mi 13232 THISWEEK October 20, 2007 1 3A Deerwood Elementary holds open house to celebrate 20 years In celebration of 20 years The event is open to past of excellence in educating and current students, parents students, Deerwood Elemen- and staff. Videos and pictures tary School will have an open will be shared along with cake house from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, and punch. Oct. 26, in the Deerwood El- For more information, call ementary gymnasium. the office at (651) 683-6801. 4A October 20, 2007 THISWEEK LEASI! InM)AAQ1 n Y PAUL WEST ST. PAUL EAVE DRUG PANEL, 6B EAGAN Seeking a faster link to the Web Eagan leads state in quest for high-speed Internet access BY FREDERICK MELO Pioneer Press As Minnesota cities go, Eagan is pretty high-tech, offer- ing widespread cable and DSL access to the Internet. That's not nearly enough. Not when a video from YouTube.com can bog down even a high-speed connection with millions of bits of information. Cities like Eagan readily admit their counterparts in places like South Korea and northern Europe aren't just sur- passing them, they're lapping them in terms of the amount of data their telecommunications infrastructures can transfer per second. "Right now, we're (at) megabits. And they're gigabits," said Drew Gorton, founder of Gorton Studios, an Eagan -based Web site development company. Eagan — already considered one of the state's standard-bear- ers for Internet connectivity — hopes to someday offer busi- nesses and residents world - class Internet access and trans- fer speeds. In February, the City Council passed a resolution making that an official priority. FASTER LINK, 12B COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 2B D THURSDAY, OCTOBER EVENTS IN HASTIN Review city's park pl Hastings will host an info residents may review the ne Plan from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wed Hall, 101 Fourth St., in the C second floor. A consultant will questions and comments abou and natural open spaces in H Bernstein at 651-480-6176 for m DAKOTA COUNTY will wo College finance workshop: tio District 191 Community Educa- fro tion is offering "How to Get incl into College and Pay for It by without Going Broke," a one- illu session class for parents of col- po. lege-bound students, from 7 to be 9 p.m. Wednesday at Burnsville Call High School, 600 E. Minnesota inf. 13, Burnsville. The class costs Da $19 or $29 per pair. Students nes are welcome to attend free ce with parents. To register 2 p online, go to communi- at t tyed191.org. For more infor- Exc mation, call 952-707-4110. bra 20t NORTH SUBURBS fre "BI Pumpkin giveaway: River- Pi= town Community Partnership to will be giving away pumpkins m from 9 a.m. until they're gone m: Saturday in front of the new na Gould's Jewelry store at Sev- wi enth Avenue and Main Street 2 in Anoka. About 500 pumpkins n will be given away. Call 763- Id 427-1460 for information. S• St RAMSEY COUNTY di ti Exhibit opening: An exhibit St of children's book art, "Picture F. This: The Art of Children's Ca Books," will open today at tio Metropolitan State University, Ha Third Floor Gallery, 645 E. Sev- co enth St., St. Paul. A reception ON RECORD SELE SOUTH ST. PAUL ho to Drug possession: Police were pu flagged down by two men Oct. pa ne mcinnati," Bruce South. Faster link (continued from Page 1B) Exactly how the city will go about its goal is still being mapped out, but state officials have taken notice and are encouraging other Minnesota cities to follow Eagan's lead. On Thursday, the House Telecommunications Regula- tion and Infrastructure Division held its weekly meeting at Eagan's City Hall. Dozens attended, including representa- tives of Thomson West, Frontier Communications, Northwest Airlines, Monticello, the Red Wing Port Authority, Dakota County and St. Paul. They encouraged the state to set clear broadband goals. Under a bill circling the Leg- islature, high-speed Internet would be available statewide by the year 2015 at one gigabit per second. That's fast enough to download a full-length movie in less than eight seconds. "Here in Eagan, we've identi- fied an issue for our business community and our citizens that resonates throughout the state," Eagan Mayor Michael Maguire said in an interview. "The goal here in Eagan is really to under- stand high-speed and broadband as the next big utility." Maguire said he has heard from small-business owners in his city who have been quoted costs of $3,000 by local telecom companies to complete a mile of underground Internet cable to their location. In 2005, however, the city con- vinced Quest to extend its DSL, or digital subscriber lines. That expanded optional high-speed DONATE YOUR VEHICLE MN Vietnam Veterans Charity Proceeds to benefit veterans of all military conflicts "Never again will one group of veterans abandon another." 116 Maximize your deduction! Any condition! Disabled, Parts, +-► or Saleable. Free Towing 651-646-1054 oR 612-366-581 1 www.veteranscardonations.com GLOSSARY OF TERMS Broadband: short for broad bandwidth; generally refers to two types of high-speed Inter- net service: cable and DSL. DSL: acronym for digital sub- scriber line; high-speed access to the Internet over the tele- phone network. Fiber-optic cable: a cable that uses lasers to transfer data fast. Gigabit: a measurement of data transfer equaling about 1 billion bits (or units of infor- mation). It is equal to 1,024 megabits of data storage. Megabit: about 1 million bits. Source: Netlingo.com Internet coverage from 45 per- cent of the city to 90 percent. But with Internet applica- tions like high -definition televi- sion and video-conferencing on the horizon, it still might not be enough to meet future needs. "Minnesota's median upload speed is seven times slower than Japan ... and a little slower than the U.S. in general," said Rick King, chief operating offi- cer of the legal software pub- lishing giant Thomson West, which is based in Eagan. Tamara Rath, an infrastruc- ture director with Northwest Airlines, said a better network would allow employees to down- load manuals and other large files at home, saving mailing costs. Even call center employ- ees could work from home. The savings in building costs might be an incentive for companies not to move operations abroad. Around the country, major telecom providers have winced as cities have proposed ways to boost Internet access and trans- fer speeds. Officials said many telecoms operate virtual monopolies and fear competi- tion, or feel shortchanged after investing millions in the infra- structure themselves. Jeff O'Neill, city administra- tor in Monticello, said the major telecoms in his city were resist- ant to offering high-speed con- nections to anything but new development. So Monticello is proceeding without them. On Sept. 18, 74 percent of vot- ers approved a ballot question allowing the city to own and operate its own telephone exchange, the first step toward establishing a citywide fiber- optic network serving every home and business. The first few homes and businesses could be connected by summer 2009. Frederick Melo can be reached at finelo@pioneerpress.com or 651-228-2172. PHOTOS.COM ental, economic and geopo- TIM GERLACH Eagan president of clean fuel and es at the American Lung Upper Midwest. them to know that we are very proud of their efforts and can say, "Well done!" DAVID GUST Troy, Wis. Another case for Boxmeyer Thank you for Don Boxmeyer's beautifully written med- itation o ate the impo an ensuring that health care is available to children. That is why I have been a supporter of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) since I was first elected to Congress in 2002. KLI However, I am not sup- porting the proposed expansion of SCRIP, because it fails to put poor kids first and relies on reckless funding schemes. This bill the president vetoed is a huge expansion of a govern- ment program extending cover- age to illegal immigrants and those already insured. SCHIP was created 10 years ago by a Republican Congress and signed into law by Presi- dent Bill Clinton to provide health care benefits for low- income children not covered by Medicaid. Ensuring that all chil- dren have access to the care they need remains a priority for me, which is why I co -sponsored NE pu Democrats in Wash- ington understand the value of SCHIP. Unfortunately, some of my colleagues in Congress are using uninsured children as a political bargaining chip. We must end this dangerous game of politics and come together in a bipartisan manner to expand the program with solid funding to ensure the children of the working poor do not fall through the cracks. Instead, we have an SCRIP bill that is fatally flawed by funding schemes and budget gimmicks that should trouble anyone. The bill relies on a budgetary gimmick that drops SCRIP funding by nearly 80 per- cent in its sixth year — resulting in a "funding cliff" that will ulti- mately force a choice between increasing taxes dramatically or stripping health insurance from millions of children. Because it depends on a huge cigarette tax cans to start smoking a pac per day. While no one would like to see kids smoking, the fact remains that the funding mech- anism for this SCHIP proposal is reliant on a dramatic increase in the smoking population. Today or Friday, the House of Representatives will vote to override or sustain the veto. I will vote to sustain the veto, so we can then move forward with bipartisan legislation that meets our kids' health needs and stops using them as political chess pieces. That is a high -stakes health care game that I refuse to play. John Kline, of Lakeville, repre- sents Minnesota's 2nd Congres- sional District. In his third term in Congress, he is a member of the Education and Labor Com- mittee, the Armed Services Com- mittee and the Ethics Committee. 'SCHIP' Expansion would mean better access for more kids BY MIATTA TURAY and MARK MISHEK oda ican kids gain access to health care. Almost the entire Minnesota This isn't a question of partisan politics, this is EAGAN • OCTOBER 18, 2007 SUN In the Community, With the Community, For the Community County moving to dispatch conversion Dakota County Communications Center set to open GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Next year, more than 200,000 emergency calls in Dakota County will all go to the same place. While the change is a big one for the county, Dakota Communications Center (DCC) Director Kent Therkelson is con- fident that residents will barely notice it, if they notice at all. The DCC will become opera- tional Dec. 1. The center will han- dle all emergency calls in the county, to allow for more efficien- cy and ease of communication for law enforcement officials. Individual police departments will still handle non -emergency calls, but the five dispatch centers at departments currently throughout the county will be put to other uses. A board of direc- tors oversees the communica- tions center, with representatives from each city and the county. DCC: TO PAGE 23A SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Independent Emergency Services technicians Dave Klobe (left) and Matt Cron set up emergency call answering stations Oct. 11 in the Dakota Communications Center. Each desk has six computer screens: one for the phone system, one for the radio system and four in a center cluster for the computer -aided dispatch system. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) Current -Thursday, Oct. 18, 2007 - www.mnSun.com RADIO STATION! --I NEIL MIAMON® {- CARLY SIMON HERMITS HERMITS STEN NOW! AST METRO. 1 05.7 IN THE WEST •105.3 IN THE FAR NORTH In the Community, With the Community, For the Community SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Burnsville senior John Elsagher hands out T-shirts to seniors Jessica Hulke, Erin Claire and Kelsey Marcks Oct. 11 at BHS. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) BHS students urge yes vote on school levy referendum HEATHER VOORHEES • SUN NEWSPAPERS Most of them won't be around next year and some aren't old enough to vote, but a group of students at Burnsville High School is trying to drum up sup- port for the upcoming levy referendum. Senior John Elsagher and juniors Emma Martin and Ingrid Jacobs are spearheading a student Vote Yes cam- paign under the direction of the adult group of the same name. They say they are tired of their school having to fir good teachers and increase class sizes. At a recent student meeting afte school, John, Emma and Ingrid led a dis cussion about levy details and passe out bright yellow T-shirts proclaimin; "Vote Yes November 6" to more than 21 students. Emma said homeowners' prop erty taxes would be raised by "one o two Starbucks drinks a week." oducing a frequent flyer program that does the unthinkable...lt rewards. LEVY: TO PAGE 7 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community DCC FROM PAGE 1A "It's been a fast-moving project," said Therkelson. "In this operation, we've got all 11 cities and a county working together to get this done. That's some- thing we kind of take for granted in Dakota County" Where traditional law enforcement radio systems have a certain capacity, the new 800 megahertz system that comes along with the new com- munications center will allow for unlimited access and better collaboration between agen- cies, which Therkelson said is key during emergencies. "It gives us a much, much larger footprint outside the county," said Therkelson. When dispatchers occupy the center in December, they will be abandoning space in five dispatch centers throughout the county. The new facility can accom- modate 23 dispatchers and has 138 computer screens. More than 6 miles of cable are What's next What: Dakota Communications Center open house When: 10:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 Where: 2860 160th St. W., Rosemount (Empire Township, comer of County Road 46 -160th Street and Highway 3) Information: 651- 322-1900 beneath the center's fire sup- pressant floor. Each dispatching station has individually controlled vents and desks that can be raised and lowered automatically. "Are there events out there that will fill all 23 of these stations? Absolutely," said Therkelson. When he was the police chief in Eagan during the floods of 2000, Therkelson said the city's dispatch stations were filled and people were still calling in and receiving busy signals. The new dispatch center will allow dispatchers to switch over to calla coming from another area during a large event without having to get out of their chairs. While they will all be work- ing in the same room, dispatchers will still be assigned to certain areas of the county when the call load is nor- mal. "Tonight, there's no way to share that load," he said. "The whole point of this is a better, more centralized control point." Having one facility will allow for 24-7 supervision, as supervisors at each facility now work a normal work week and come back having to deal with issues that occurred over the weekend. Six supervisors at the new facility will be on a rotating schedule. Dispatchers will also have more amenities available to them at the new facility. In most of the current facilities, dispatchers take their breaks at their desks. An onsite lunch- room is available at the new facility, as dispatchers need only to stay on site during breaks in the case of emergency. The center will also have cots and a full kitchen in the event that a prolonged emergency requires it to be fully staffed for an extended period of time. The facili- ty also includes a workout room and show- ers for staff to use before or after work. www.mnSun.com -Thursday, Oct. 18, 2007 -Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Su Another feature of the new facility is a quiet room, where dispatchers can go after dealing with a high-pressure call. "Just the idea of them getting away from those phones and radios is going to be a huge opportunity that they don't have today," said Therkelson. The county's law enforcement agen- cies should also see an eventual savings from the consolidated facility, said Therkelson. The county paid $7.8 million for the construction of the building, which is being paid off in a 15-year lease by the DCC. There were also $6.6 million in operational start up costs that are being paid off by the members of the DCC with public safety revenue bonds. The county is reducing its total dis- patching staff by five dispatchers through attrition, which will be a long- term savings. The county's financial department predicts that the participat- The Com Cente all em for Da when th become tional in (For mor visit our o Photo Gall www.mnS SCOTT THEI SUN h:,,,k ,4<°A ing agencies will see a combined $ million in savings during the first thr years of operation due to efficienci and staff reduction. Each of the participating member pays a share according to the number o calls received each year. For example, Eagan will pay about 17 percent of the total cost this year, where Mendota Heights will pay slightly more than 1 percent. The formula is adjusted each year. Board members also hold a voting influence equal to the amount they put in. Therkelson said wl_'de there have been numerous well -debated topics at board meetings, decisions have been made with relative consensus. "We have not had to use the calcula- tor yet," he said. There will be public open house 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, at the DCC, 2860 160th St. W., Rosemount. alley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, Oct. 18, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community. For the Community loween, h - r est even APPLE VALLEY pkin painting/carving is for 6-12 year olds Friday, Oct. 19. ration required. Sessions are 9-10 r painting; 10:15 to 11:15 for carv- ost is $6.50 per person per session. s for a mess. Apple Valley munity Center, 14603 Hayes Road. rmation: 952-953-2300. oliday parties for tots, ages 2 to 6. A aunted Halloween" Party is Friday, t. 26. Session 1 is 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.; ssion 2 is 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Cost is .50 per session, at the Apple Valley ommunity Center. Register one week advance. Parents do not stay for this class, which features games, crafts, sto- ries, songs and treats. Younger siblings will not be admitted to the party. Information: 952-953-2300. Ghost stories by the fire, for fami- lies of all ages, 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1 30, at Valleywood Golf Course. Fee is $2. Registration deadline is Oct. 25. S'mores will be made. Dress for the weather and bring a flashlight if scared of the dark. Stories will be age appropriate for ages 5 to 9. Information: 952-953-2300. The Great Pumpkin Party, sponsored by McDonald's of Apple Valley, for ages 3- 10 and their parents. The date is Saturday, Oct. 20, with session 1 at 9 a.m., session 2 at 10:15 a.m. Sessions last for one hour. Cost is $8.50 per child per session, parents are free. Apple Valley Community Center. Register by Oct. 12. A brunch will be pro- vided along with games, crafts, prizes, Halloween activities, and a picture with the Great Pumpkin. Dress in costume. Information: 952-953-2300. EAGAN A costume crawl is scheduled 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, at Lebanon Hills Visitor Center in Eagan, 860 Cliff Road. Simply The Best For Less! ANI IZE 89* INSTALLED WHITE DOUBLE - HUNG REPLACMENT Windows, Siding, Soffit, Fascia, Doors, Leaf Proof Gutters, Roofs Storm Damage Repair -We are totally satisfied with All ages are welcome to this free event. Wear a costume for the parade and party. No registration is required. A Halloween Hodgepodge event is planned 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 28, at the Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway. Trick or treating, bingo, games, scavenger hunt, food, dancing and crafts. Admission is $3 per person and a food shelf item for Dakota Woodlands. Come in costume. Costume parade is at 4:45 p.m. The Monster Mash is 5:30 to 8 p.m. Information: 651-675-5500. Peace Church, 2180 Glory Drive in Eagan, welcomes families to a Harvest Festival Oct. 31. The evening begins at 6:30 in the sanctuary with Christian illu- sionist, Jerry Hagaman. The evening continues in the gym with carnival games, candy and more. This is an event for families with children aged through fifth grade. Children must bring a parent or adult chaperone to join in the fun and are welcome to wear their "family friend- ly" costume. No devil, witch, ghost, or frightening costumes. There is no cost to attend. Information: 651-454-4542. ROSEMOUNT The 25th Annual Halloween Haunted Woods Trail, sponsored by the Rosemount Halloween Committee and the Rosemount Parks and Recreation Department, is 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27. For preschool through middle school youths, the trail begins at the Park & Ride parking lot on Highway 3 (South Robert Trail) and winds its way through Central Park and exits onto 145th Street West. Information or to volunteer: Mike Bouchard at 651-423-4603, or Lacelle at the Rosemount Parks and Recreation Department, 651-322-6011. The website is www.hauntedwoodstrail.dskz.com. r WHY GREAT , Where Quality Meets Value GARAGE DOOR? -.`�", i • quality in a Variety of / ALLL / Price Ranges I/ SRAM ' •Large Selection -= ::fit l ' 4' EVENTS: TO NEXT PAGE Litt-maktgil PREMIUM DELUXE 1/2 HP OPENER $G 7 OITSTAL LED e a help for aging brains? by haven't consumers jectors? ing SOURCE day • MINNEAPOLIS • ST. PAUL - 50q MSP noise deal helps many more • Mayor Rybak hailed MAC's proposed settlement, double what it had offered to homeowners pursuing a class-action suit. By STEVE BRANDT • sbrandt@startribune.com Thousands of additional homeowners would get up to $130 million in work to muffle airplane noise under a proposed legal settlement approved unanimously Monday by the Metropolitan Air- ports Commission. The settlement would end a lawsuit brought by Minneapolis, Richfield and Eagan against the MAc and also could ARE YOU end a class-action law- INCLUDED? suit filed on behalf A household's benefit of 8,100 homeown- would depend on esti- ers in the same area. It mated airplane noise could mean as much as at the address under $45,000 apiece in noise- the noise map gov- abatement work for a eming the settlement. few hundred homes. Check your address at But most would be el- www.startribune igible for far less work. .com/a3517. Turn to The amount doubles A6 for more details. the roughly $65 million MAC offered to settle the class-action noise lawsuit earlier this year. Airline lease fees and air- port concession income would finance the work, MAC spokesman Patrick Hogan said. Noise continues: City councils will now vote on the proposed settlement. A6 ► A2 • STAR TRIBUNE • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1 INDEX Advice E Obituaries B Bridge E On the Air C Comics E Scoreboard C Crosswords E Sudoku E Editorial A Television E Movies E Weather B SCROLL THROUGH OUR LATEST BLOG ENTRIES StarTribune 0 com KA-BLOG! Green is definitely this year's 'in' color startribune.com/kablog YESTERDAY'S NEWS Inside the standoff at Wounded Knee,1973 startribune.com/yesterday WEDNESDAY IN H+G /' Ry Qt4. Retro furniture and accessories for your home WEDNESDAY IN SOURCE Custody fights: Who decides whether children are safe? CORRECTION A story on Page B9 Saturday mis- spelled the name of state Sen. Terri Bonoff, a DFL candidate for the Third Congressional District seat. CLARIFICATION f BIRTH DEAD) PEPPE T Pai O.I. Simpson c Cas SOME R Visitors in New Yoi OFF THE A story on Page D5 Monday about the new Fox Business Network Silen neglected to mention where it can be viewed in the Twin Cities area. LONDON It is available on DirecTV and is ex- m pected to be available on Comcast ers to A tY se Household's benefit to hinge on map of noise projection • Sound -muffling improvements might include central air, insulation, and door and window replacement or repair. By STEVE BRANDT sbrandt@startribune.com The proposed legal settle- ment on airport noise up for approval this week provides varying levels of noise -damp- ening assistance. A household's benefit will depend on estimated airplane noise at the address under the 2007 map of noise projections. The map that will govern the settlement, and address- es may be checked online at: www.startribune.com/a3517. • An estimated 432 sin- gle-family homes in 63- and 64-decibel areas would get as much relief as more than 7,800 homes in 65-plus decibel areas were given in a program that ended in 2005. The improvements to those homes might include central air conditioning, door and window replacement or re- pair, wall and attic insulation, and additional sound -muffling work. This work is to be done by the end of 2009. • About 5,344 homes in the 60- to 62-decibel area would get one of two options by the end of 2012. About 3,421 homes with- out air conditioning as of Sept. 1 would get that, plus up to $4,000 in noise -dampening modifications. That compares with air-conditioning plus $1,750 in the proposed settle- ment of the class-action law - NOISE FOOTPRINT AROUND THE AIRPORT Minneapolis St.Paul Richfield Adm.. 35W Bloomington Map shows estimated 2007 average noise levels, in decibels, based on a complicated formula. Source:MetropolitanAirportsCommission suit filed separately on behalf of 8,100 homeowners. Owners of the other homes in that noise area who already have air conditioning or who don't want it could get up to $14,000 in noise -dampening modifications. That compares with $9,250 in the proposed class-action settlement. Unlike under the class-ac- tion settlement proposal, at- torney fees would not be de- ducted from those amounts, MAC spokesman Patrick Hogan said. • About 1,931 apartment and condo units in buildings of four or more units would get per- manent air conditioners with noise -dampening covers. This is slated to happen by the end of 2010. • Another $7 million would West St.Paul Lilydale 'Mendota Mendota sun - Heights :fish ,,.,, Lake ,494 Eagan 1mile StarTribune be set aside for two groups of homeowners. First claim on the money would go to properties where previous owners had elect- ed not to participate, though their properties qualified for full noise abatement based on older noise maps. About 200 new owners of those properties could opt in but would only get the noise - dampening level they're enti- tled to based on the 2007 map. If that doesn't use up the en- tire $7 million, the remaining money would be split among 1,835 single-family homes that were in the 60- to 64-decibel group under a 2005 noise map. but that might not be in that noise area on the 2007 map. Steve Brandt • 612-673-4438 washington `Fiscal showdown' brewing: • With the deficit way down, critical elections around the corner and warnings that he might veto, President Bush pushes back on Democratic spending bills. By PETER BAKER Washington Post ROGERS, ARK — The White House and Congress are head- ing for what President Bush predicts will be a "fiscal show- down" at a time when the na- tion's financial health has im- proved for the moment. After years of record -high deficits, both parties are now projecting that the budget can be balanced by 2012. But as each side seeks to outmaneu- ver the other politically head- ing into next year's critical elections, the rhetorical battle between Bush and lawmakers has never been more heated. Bush used an appearance in Rogers on Monday to chastise Democratic leaders for failing to send him one of the 12 an - CAMPAIGN 2008 ROUNDUP nual spending bills more than two weeks into the new fiscal year, and he eagerly vowed to veto what he deems excessive spending. Democrats fired back by highlighting the one veto he has issued, which re- jected the dramatic expansion of a popular children's health insurance program. The backdrop for this con- frontation belies its intensity. Last week, the Office of Man- agement and Budget reported that the deficit in the 2007 fiscal year that ended Sept. 30 fell to $163 billion, barely half of what it was two years ago and the lowest in five years. While still a hefty chunk of money, the deficit now represents just 1.2 percent of the overall economy, lower than the average rate over the last four decades. Yet Bush has gotten no credit for that with the public, prompting the White House to look for opportunities to fight Congress over spending and reinforce his credentials with a disaffected Republican base. The latest Washington Post - ABC News poll found that on- ly 27 percent of Americans ap- prove of Bush's handling of the deficit, matching his all- time low on the issue, com- pared with 64 percent who disapprove. More than half of Americans, 52 percent, trust Democrats more to tackle the deficit compared with 29 per- cent who trust Bush more. Little wonder then that the wi White House staff made sure we to hang two giant banners that said "Fiscal Responsibility" be- cit,' hind the president for his talk wh Romney walks fine line in fostering a kinship He has invoked the Rev. Rick Warren, a popular evangelical author and megachurch pastor. He has quoted Scripture and alluded to the Gideon Bible as favorite late -night reading. And he has cited his belief in Jesus Christ as his "personal savior." As Mitt Romney has had to grapple with suspicions about his Mormon faith during his presidential run, he has tried in various ways to signal his kinship with evangelical Chris- tians, who represent a crucial constituency of the Republican base but consider his religious beliefs to be heretical. He faces a delicate task in t to stake between Mormonism and con- ventional Protestantism. "He has to be very cautious," said Oran Smith, president of the Palmetto Family Council, a conservative Christian group in South Carolina "When he actually says things that make Mormonism sound like ortho- dox Christianity, I think that's where he runs into alot of trouble." Romney faces one of his most important tests Friday, when he addresses a gather - in of co Romney his 20-minute address and, if so, how much to dwell on it rela- tive to other social issues. His advisers believe there is now an opening for him among members of this pivotal constit- uency in the Republican base. Fred Thompson, the former Ten- nessee senator for whom many conservative Christians had held out hope, has faltered in the roll- out of his campaign. Former Gov. Mike Huckabee of Arkansas, another potential evangelical standard-bearer, is struggling to raise money. And prominent conservative Christian leaders are becoming increasingly res- FU C mo $3 P lio re C re b re an Noise deal would help more homes 1 NOISE FROM Al MAC chair Jack Lanners called the settlement with the cities "a reasonable, fmancial- ly responsible plan." City at- torneys estimated the deal will cost MAC $127 million, while MAC estimated as much as $130 million. Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak hailed it as an "incred- ible agreement." The Minneapolis City Council is to meet at 12:30 p.m. today to consider the set- tlement. Richfield's council will consider it at a 5:30 p.m. meeting, while Eagan's coun- cil meets at 6:30 p.m. Hogan said the proposal would al- so help some homeowners in Bloomington and possibly Mendota Heights. The settlement provides aid for at least Z900 households, and possibly as many as about 9,700. They're mostly house- holds that didn't qualify for the first round of MAC's insula- tion program in areas most se- verely affected by noise. That ended in 2005 with $246 mil- lion spent. For a majority of house- holds, the settlement would likel mean ditioning or money for other noise -reducing projects if they already have air conditioning. Still, the deal will cost MAC more money and affect more homeowners than the settle- ment proposed in the class-ac- tion suit. Only 4,400 of those homeowners would have got- ten noise help, and the money per household was less. FAA must approve Monday's settlement ap- proval is contingent on ap- proval by the Federal Aviation Administration and by those homeowners who brought the class-action suit. The home- owners' attorney, Carolyn An- derson, said: "I'm anticipating they'll be very supportive." She said that the settlement the cit- ies obtained built on the work in the proposed settlement in her case. She said MAC wasn't willing to put all its money on the table in the class-action set- tlement proposal, knowing the cities' case was pending. "Finally, justice is being served for people who deserve protection for the largest in- vestment they'll make — their home," Rybak said in a state- ment. "We finally have vindi- ing all along: that the MAC has a duty to protect people from airport noise pollution." The cities filed their law- suit alleging MAC had bro- ken a commitment to insu- late homes in the 60- to 64- decibel range when it expand- ed the current airport rather than build a more remote new site. Hennepin County District Judge Stephen Aldrich, who handled both lawsuits, found in one procedural ruling that MAC committed to spend up to $150 million on lowering noise by five decibels in those homes. But it later adopted a $48 million program, prompt- ing the cities' lawsuit. Rather than issue his expect- ed ruling on Aug. 24 on the cit- ies' lawsuit, Aldrich prodded the cities, MAC and intervenor Northwest Airlines to settle. A new feature of the settle- ment is that owners of single- family homes who sell within two years of getting noise help may have to repay 25 percent of the cost, up to $3,500. Hogan said that if any home on a block qualifies for work, all homes on the block would be eligible for some work. guage to meteorology. U economist W.. Chari recalled that when they first met, Hurwicz of- fered insights into the origins of words and dialects of Tamil, a language spo- such as "mechanism design" and "in- centive compatibility," the great in- sight of Hurwicz's theories was read- ily understandable — markets work most efficiently when the incentives tem," Chari sa The lesson so led to the luters to buy right to emit s ERIC RISBERG • Associated Press obe at his home in Oakland, Calif. It wasn't displayed uld ask. He said, "Hardly anyone knew I had it." end of World War II, a U.S. soldier entering Adolf Hit- tronghold found that Allied bombing had left the "Ea - ruins. Hitler was dead, and other soldiers had already rivate residence in the Bavarian Alps town of Berchtes- everything of value was gone — except for the Fuhrer's lace is all bombed out and here this globe is sitting there said John Barsamian, 91, who is selling the artifact, along theory, that people with higher educa- tion, more challenging occupations and enriched social lives build more cognitive reserve than couch potatoes. It's never too late to start building up that reserve, said Columbia University neuroscientist Yaakov Stern. But "the question is how. What is the recipe?" BENEFITS OF GARLIC Garlic, the pungent bulb used for centuries in cooking and healing, may help protect against heart disease by relaxing arteries and increasing blood flow, scientists said Monday. Red blood cells make components of garlic into hydrogen sulfide, a biological messenger that stimulates vessels to open, according to a labora- tory study that will be published this week in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Research published earlier this year showed that eating garlic daily didn't lower harmful cholesterol in people with moderately high levels of the fatty blood protein. By boosting hy- drogen sulfide levels, garlic may promote heart health in other ways, said David Kraus, a University of Alabama at Birming- ham biologist who led the blood -vessel study. "Hydrogen sulfide opens blood ves- sels and is an antioxidant, which reduces damage to cells "Kraus said in a 1 nhone out common ground with con- servative Christians, while not nrnning afoul of deeply rooted evangelical sensitivities about any blurring of distinctions at the Values Voter Summit in Washington. His advisers are still undecided about whether Romney will directly address concerns about his religion in 11 ldl Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of New $9 York, a supporter of abortion rights, winning the Republican nomination. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Dakota County gives approval to Diffley Marketplace traffic plan Agreement ends lawsuit settlement with city GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS After 21/2 years at a standstill, a traf- fic plan agreement has been reached for a development in Eagan. The Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved a traffic plan Oct. 9 for the Diffley Marketplace devel- opment near the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Daniel Drive on a 5-2 vote. The plan will allow for an enter -only access to the development from Daniel Drive, a condition that had previously not been granted by the county, result- ing in a stalemate between the county and the city of Eagan's desires. After the project was stalled, the developers, Diffley Ventures, sued the city, alleging it had not acted in time in making its decision to deny the development. The city and the developers then reached a settlement as the case was in the appeals process. The agreement hinged on the county's approval of the enter -only access. Commissioner Michael Turner said he didn't get a clear picture of truck access to the development on the west side near Lexington Avenue when the county first examined the issue and voted to allow full access on Daniel Drive. The developers are targeting a grocery story as an anchor for the site. "I was not aware that there was a clear delineation on the road back to Patrick Road [a dead end road with access to Lexington Avenue]," said Turner. "I'll take the brunt of that." Commissioner Kathleen Gaylord said she was aware of the entire plan the first time before she cast a dissenting vote along with Commissioner Joseph Harris. When the board first voted on the traffic plan last year, the vote was 6- 1 in favor of full access off Daniel Drive, which the city of Eagan opposed. A number of residents near the devel- opment showed up to speak against the traffic proposal. Janet Westenberg, who lives on Daniel Drive, said even with the enter - only access, traffic would increase on her residential street. "It does not minimize the concern of parents for their children," she said. Commissioner Tom Egan, who repre- sents Eagan, said he voted against the development the first time because full access would have increased traffic on Daniel Drive. He said he saw the partial access as a reasonable compromise. "I was holding out for the Daniel Drive people," he said of his lone dis- senting vote. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Levy FROM PAGE 2A The student Vote Yes group, an inde- pendent club not sanctioned -by District 191, is asking interested stu- dents to wear the T-shirts all on the same day, as well as help pass out absentee ballots at parent -teachers' conferences and contact BHS alumni in the district to encourage them to vote yes. They have also passed out informational fliers before and after school. Senior Jessica Spevack of Eagan attended the meeting because she's upset several of her favorite teachers were fired last year due to budget cuts. "There comes a Also time when you have to say, 'this needs to Read the Sun- be done,— she said, Current's opinion noting there are 40 on the students' students in two of efforts to pro- her upper -level class - mote the levy es this semester. referendum. Nov 6, the referen- Page 6A dum will ask for $630 per pupil unit annu- ally for 10 years. On a home valued at $250,000, the levy would mean a property tax increase of about $279 per year. Last year, Burnsville -Eagan -Savage dis- trict cut $4 million from its operating budg- et, citing inadequate funding from the state and a failed levy referendum attempt. John said even though he won't be 3#3 "cam$ Apple Valley Villa YOUR COMMUNITY Your friends are right here Affiliate of Augustana Care Corporation 14610 GARRETT AVENUE, APPLE VALLEY nrn nnr+ nnnn EAGAN, RICHFIELD, MINNEAPOLIS $130M offered in airport noise case Commission would pay to soundproof homes, apartments BY MARICELLA MIRANDA Pioneer Press The Metropolitan Airports Commission could spend an esti- mated $130 million to settle an airport -noise lawsuit filed by three cities and a housing agency. The proposed settlement, which the MAC approved Mon- day, will be reviewed today for approval by the cities of Eagan, Minneapolis and Richfield. "Right now, we're hopeful that all the parties will agree and that we will have a settle- ment agreement sometime (today)," Eagan City Adminis- trator Tom Hedges said. The lawsuit, filed by the cities and the Minneapolis Pub- lic Housing Authority two years ago, alleges the MAC scaled AIRPORT NOISE, 6B Valley Elementary School, adv 13875 Glendale Road in Savage. ext Students and adults have made about 450 ceramic bowls, which will be given to attendees. A supper of soup and bread also will be served. There is a suggested $10 tax-deductible donation for the event, which aims to increase awareness of hunger. • Tr Rid Eag pro fam fro cur St. i inf • For the 18th straight year, the or Burnsville -Eagan -Savage has par received an award for financial REUNI ST. PAUL Harding High School: The class of 1967 will meet for their 40th reunion Oct. 19 at Holiday Inn East, 2201 Burns Ave., St. Paul. For more information call Denny Waczak at 651-771-2333 or by e-mail at dswaczak@aol.com. Johnson High School: The class of 1938 will hold its 70th reunion o from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 20 at 3 the school, 1349 Arcade St., St. Paul. The event includes a silent auction. For more information, call Dorothy Lynch at 651-747-8483. Washington High School: The classes of 1971, 1972 and 1973 will meet for a combined reunion Oct. 20 at Day's Inn, 1780 E. County Road D, Maplewood. Hospitality will be at 5 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. and dancing at 8 p.m. For more information, call Jeff Boldt at 651-484-3813 or 6B F TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2007 ST. PAUL PIONEER PR + Airport noise (continued from Page 1B) back a 1996 noise -insulation plan to soundproof thousands of homes in those cities as part of expanding the Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport. The federal government requires the MAC, owner and operator of the airport, to fully soundproof homes where noise levels reach 65 decibels or high- er, said MAC spokesman Patrick Hogan. "We're going well beyond the federal standard," Hogan said. The proposal includes four noise -mitigation programs. It would give soundproofing improvements to about 432 sin- gle-family homes where noise levels reach 63 to 64 decibels. Those would generally include installing central air condition- ing, repairing or replacing doors, insulating walls and attics and muffling roof vents and chimney treatments. The goal would be to reduce noise levels for those homes by an average of five decibels. The proposal would also offer one of two packages to res- idents of 5,344 single-family homes where the noise levels reach 60 to 62 decibels. The first would give central air condition- ing to an estimated 3,421 homes CONTINUED FROM THE LOCAL COVER without it. Those residents also could get up to $4,000 to buy and install other noise -mitigation products and services provided by the MAC. The second would provide up to $14,000 in soundproofing for homes in the 60- to 62-decibel range that already have central air conditioning or choose not to install it. For an estimated 1,931 multi- family units where the noise levels reach 60 to 64 decibels, the proposal would provide wall -mounted air conditioners for those without air condition- ing. The air conditioners would also come with an acoustical cover. The proposal also would offer new owners of single-fami- ly homes soundproofing if the homes' previous owners had chosen not to accept those improvements from the MAC. If the total costs of sound- proofing those homes were less than $7 million, the funds left over would be used to reimburse about 1,835 single- family homeowners who had noise -mitigation products installed by the MAC, accord- ing to a 2005 report regarding homes with 60- to 65-decibel noise levels. The rest would be divided among that group of homes. The cities also would receive Airport noise The federal government requires full noise mitigation for homes in areas where the noise level average is 65 decibels or greater. A lawsuit settlement proposed Monday by the Metropolitan Airports Commission could provide $130 million worth of noise mitigation for homes within the 60 to 64 decibel range. 1621 RICHFIEL 81.0OMINGTON • 0." N Minnesota Source: Metropolitan Airports Commission Minneapo St. Paul International irpo ST. PAUL fsssipPi Rivet'' EP DOTA FNtOTA HEIGHTS i \ � v 31 $2.5 million in attorney's fees in the settlement. Those who sell their single- family houses within two years of getting the noise mitigation could be required to reimburse the MAC for 25 percent of the costs — till to $3,500 per home. "We want to discourage profi- teering by individuals who might otherwise purchase PIONEER PRESS homes in the area simply to receive the MAC improve- ments," commission Chairman Jack Lamers said in a state- ment released Monday. The MAC plans to pay the $130 million using airline fees for repairs and maintenance, airport revenue from parking and concessions and other user fees. In June, the MAC offered to settle a class-action suit by homeowners for an estimated $65 million for central air condi- tioning and other soundproof- ing improvements for 4,413 homes in Minneapolis, Richfield and Eagan where the noise lev- els reach 60 to 64 decibels. Most of those homes are in Min- neapolis. The MAC is including those homes in its latest settlement offer. Carolyn Anderson, a lawyer for the homeowners, said she supports the new set- tlement. Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak also backed the proposal. The Federal Aviation Admin- istration . and the Hennepin County District Court must also approve the settlement. "There are still a number of steps that need to happen before this becomes a reality, but today was certainly an important step toward getting the issue settled," Hogan said. Maricella Miranda can be reached at mmiranda@pioneer press.com or 651-228-5421. Online: See the Metropolitan Airports Commission Web site at macnoise.com/maps to see whether a proposed $130 mil- lion airport noise lawsuit settle- ment could affect your home. BULLETIN BOARD VWW.TWINCITIES.COM COME AGAIN? so the doctor's not in iu wanna make a scene?' tive hearing, reported by Ms. K.: "My husband went to t the other day. The doctor's nurse came out to tell him t. and if he wanted to make a scene. arly' •angely, and my Stood you. What "She said: 'Do you want a magazine?' "I guess I'm not the only one who mumbles when I talk." lead in some children's toys — but now we need to be wary of lead in lipstick? Looks like, instead of sheep late tonight, I'll recall with mounting horror how many times I've reapplied my lipstick today!" The simple pleasures (responsorial) Grandma Enid of St . Paul: "I was smiling over reading Fri- day's Bulletin Board — about the lady who met two 4-month- olds named Ruby and Pearl. What a coincidence! Those were the names that my grand- mother gave to her two little jewels, in 1890 and 1895. . "Pearl, by the way, was my TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2007 F 5B GEE, OUR OLD LA SALLE RAN GREAT (RESPONSORIAL) Writes ANTIQUER of St Paul: "My dad saw the image you ran in the 10/4/07 Bulletin Board — of the business card for William Walker, 'Shoe Dresser to Ladies and Gen- tlemen' — and he realized he'd heard of the Minnesota Shoe Repair Company before. "He's an antique collector and dealer. He did research last winter on this old handmade wooden fishing lure. It was made by Ole Christianson at the Minnesota Shoe Company at 322 Robert Street in St. Paul between 193? and 194?. Apparently they made two types of fishing lures and did it as a sideline in the back room when the shoe business was slow. These lures are quite valuable to collectors. "Also as a side note, I noticed on William Walker's business card that he spelled 'EF-ISH-ENT' using 'fish' — probably no coincidence there!" For H t A PIONEER WILLtAM, F (BILL) WALKER $ O 1.. R<p4 A? .Lm.N £ISf�I.}!^. WITH THE MINNESOTA $HQE REPAIR CO. 22 8ERT‘e, ETW B22 P0 IN 3.n Aufl; ...'_ INT'At.ev�ix� "Ei'-ISH EM" rrr. NoS- N£aai_, GVo.grv. Ponii..N 4-' !. YpU+� PAI'NONA:. S.1cYTRFNrnctauu.v Sci_«�*en NI an o<eo!orou ar VIKING BAIT & NOVELTY CO. 322 Robe, t St. SAINT PAUL, MINN. probably guessed by now what happened. The newcomer, upon returning, immediately ran out on the dock, which slowly col- lapsed into the water. The water was only a bit over his knees, but it was cold. "I don't think that I have ever seen a more startled or angry 1.1111111111=1.11111111111111111.1..,,Ia inint¢ an Our times (responsorial) In reply to reports of Hal- loween unhappiness, here's Grammy Jeanne of Spooner, uncle. Ruby was my mother. thinking time than doing time.) "I have never had a very fancy dock; it was always something I built myself out of whatever was available ... or at least cheap. I do have three 10-foot sections of wooden dock supported by three pipe frame horses, which are bolted to the sections at the d end. No in easy to expression. Not a good way to access to calculators, no doubt." Oopp's! Dorothy of Connecticut ("for- merly of Fridley"): "A sign dis- played at a local Massachusetts greenhouse: 'Mum's for sale.' "Well, whaddaya know! Some people really WOULD sell • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2007 • STAR TRIBUNE • METRO • B13 CARLOS GON7AI FZ • cgonzalez@startnbune.com Andy and Katie Larson think they will get assistance to soundproof their home in south Minneapo- lis. They have new windows and hope to qualify for air conditioning from the settlement. Settlement will quiet things down NOISE FROM BI City leaders also said hold- ing out for a judicial ruling and appeals would have posed a longer delay and more risks. Website swamped Homeowners overwhelmed the Airports Commission's website Tuesday trying to find out if their property qualifies for the noise -proofing aid. The commission said late Tuesday at the site isn't as specific as ater mapping it plans. Only an estimated 432 omes will get the full noise ackage out of an estimat- d 9,561 covered by the settle- ent. Full -package homes get easures designed to reduce door noise from planes by ore than half. More than half of qualify- g homes would get either entral air conditioning and ,000 worth of added work, r $14,000 in work if they al- ady have central air. Ironically, Rybak won't qual- for noise insulation because lives about five blocks too west. Benson's home was ulated in an earlier phase. lvin Roy said her house alifies for the smallest cate- ry of work under the deal. Where a house falls in terms noise -dampening help will pend on a computer mod - that projected in 2002 how ch noise a house might be sed to in 200Z The model rages flights, types of planes flight patterns expected for ven area in 24 hours, count - night flights heavier than operations. e commission's website (www macnoise.com/maps) roughly maps a home's weight- ed decibel average when a par- ticular address is plugged in. Homes must be on blocks touching the 60 to 64-decibel average to get insulation. A separate city website (www.startribune.com/a3523) shows which Minneapolis homes meet the minimum standard for settlement aid of 60-decibel average expo- sure. The city and the Airports Commission plan to meet this week to fine-tune the eligibil- ity map. Settlement is 'awesome' Still, one homeowner who was able to determine Tuesday that his home qualifies for air conditioning said of the news: "It's awesome." Andy Larson said he moved into his home in the Diamond Lake neighborhood three years ago and installed new win- dows. The settlement will give him central air. "It's just a question of wheth- er we'll live in the house long enough to benefit from it," said Larson, who is newly married. The noise deal includes a clause that allows the Airports Commission to recapture up to $3,500 in noise spending if a house is sold less than two years after the work. Howev- er, that anti -profiteering clause has large exemptions for peo- ple who owned a house by Sept. 1, or live in it, or take a loss on the resale, or experi- ence a change in family status or job relocation. Julie Schlekau, who lives a few blocks from Larson, is waiting to hear if her house qualifies. Her family bought the house nine years ago, knowing it was scheduled then for noise - dampening work, but has de- ferred improvements until an answer is defmite. For example, she wants a new furnace but wants to coor- dinate that with a cooling sys- tem she hopes the settlement will provide. The house could also use new windows but she doesn't want to buy them if they're going to be provided. "It is very frustrating," she said. Wait has been long enough "Our residents have waited long enough for some signifi- cant relief from airport noise," said Richfield Mayor Debbie GoetteL In Richfield, about 105 homes will receive the full re- duction package, valued at roughly $45,000 per home, of- ficials said. About 740 homes will be el- igible to choose from the op- tions of air conditioning and $4,000 worth of additional mit- igation measures, or $14,000 in mitigation measures. In addition, another 400 homes will be eligible to re- ceive up to $2,500 to cover costs of noise mitigation work, Richfield officials said Tuesday night. The settlement must still be approved by the Federal Aviation Administration and Hennepin County District Court. Steve Brandt • 612-673-4438 Staff Writer Joy Powell contributed to this report. B14 METRO • STAR TRIBUNE • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2007 * TODAY'S HIGH: 63 • FEELS LIKE: 63 TONIGHT'S LOW: 52 weather 7 A.M. .& 49 ° Damp start, drier roads NOON 60° Some sun, still dry. SE 12 5 P.M. 00 63 ° Rain arrives, damp football games PAUL DOUGLAS Soggy footballs tonight Welcome to Seattle — with lakes. Our dire lack of sunlight has gone from a minor annoyance to pri- mal -scream -time. I'm convinced that most Minne- sotans dread the lack of sunshine more than the lack of degrees during the winter months. We are enter- ing the gray season, where blue sky will be the ex- ception, not the rule. That's why I may try to talk the National Weather Service into tooting the sirens if the sun does make a cameo appearance today. There is a slight risk of spying the sun today; if skies do brighten, even for a few wondrous hours, temperatures should surge into the low 60s. Pack something wa- terproof for high school football games this evening. The next storm will spin up a swirl of rain, and 1 to 1.5 inches of water may soak lawns and trees from tonight into Thursday. Showers wind down Friday, and Saturday still appears to be the sunnier, nicer day to quietly push colorful leaves into your neighbor's yard. PAUL'S Q&A Amber Blanchard, Forest Lake: Since we've had a cloudy run late- ly, what is the record for the most days without seeing the sun? Paul says: According to Pete Boulay at the Minnesota State Clima- tology Office, the modern-day record for consecutive days with zero sunshine is 15 days, from Oct. 30 to Nov. 13,1972. Paul Douglas is senior meteorologist at WCCO. YESTERDAY IN THE TODAY'S HEALTH REPORT TWIN CITIES High Low Tuesday 56 51 Average 59 39 Record 86 (1938) 23 (1952) Hourly temperatures 12 a.m. 51 8 a.m. 52 4 p.m. 56 1 a.m. 51 9 a.m. 53 5 p.m. 55 2 a.m. 51 10 a.m. 53 6 p.m. 55 3 a.m. 51 11 a.m. 53 7 p.m. 55 4 a.m. 51 Noon 55 8 p.m. 55 5 a.m. 52 1 p.m. 55 9 p.m. 55 6 a.m. 52 2 p.m. 55 10 p.m. 55 7 a.m. 52 3 p.m. 55 11 p.m. — Precipitation 24 hours to 4 p.m. yesterday 0.65" Month to yesterday 2.69" Above / below average +1.58" Year to yesterday 31.81" Above / below average +6.34" Yesterday's record 2.10" in 1984 Relative Humidity High 100% (7 p.m.) Low 86% (4 p.m.) Heating degree days 2007 2006 Avg. 24 hrs to 4 p.m. vest. 11 13 17 Seasonal 259 1051 409 Air Quality Index Ultraviolet Index 1,1 YESTERDAY'S ALLERGY INDEX High Moderate Low Absent Grass Weeds Trees Molds F: Show off Today's sunris THURSDAY 60° 00 50° Over 1" rain 6 41 d U.S. TUE TODAY TH Albuquerque 70/41/pc 66/42/pc 69 Anchorage 39/33/pc 42/32/pc 4 Atlanta 77/63/pc 78/66/pc 80 Austin 71/66/pc 89/67/pc 88 Baltimore 75/48/pe 80/57/pe 78 Billings 58/34/pc 55/39/c 56 Birmingham 82/68/pc 80/70/t 86 Bismark 70/46/pc 72/50/pc 70 Boise 61/49/pc 57/41/pc 58 Boston 63/47/s 65/55/pc Brownsville 93/72/pc 95/78/pc 9 Buffalo 65/48/pc 68/56/pc 7 Cedar Rapids 56/51/c 70/56/pc 6 Charleston, 5C 85/62/pc 87/69/pc 8 Charlotte 79/53/c 82/64/pc 7 Cheyenne 65/32/pc 60/35/c 5 Chicago 69/60/c 74/61/pc 7 Cincinnati 71/59/c 78/62/pc 7 Cleveland 70/56/5h 74/58/pc 7 Dallas 72/58/pc 84/67/t 8 Denver 71/35/pc 64/34/pc 5 Des Moines 55/50/c 68/54/pc Detroit 67/60/r 72/59/pc 7 Eau Claire 60/51/r 67/52/pc Fairbanks 24/22/pc 30/16/sf Flagstaff 58/29/sh 58/29/pc Fort Myers 90/73/t 89/76/t Galveston 84/71/t 86/78/t Green Bay 64/54/r 68/53/c Honolulu 84/74/pc 86/74/pc Houston 83/65/t 88/75/t Indianapolis 73/61/c 76/62/pc Jacksonville 85/67/pc 84/72/t Kansas City 68/49/pc 70/56/t Las Cruces 81/46/s 79/51/5 Las Vegas 74/63/5 78/54/pc Little Rock 72/54/pc 79/69/t Los Angeles 69/58/5 69/58/pc Louisville 76/63/t 78/64/t Madison 66/57/c 70/57/pc Field work: A boon for politics all or blight on island? Giulia • TURF FROM Bi can't wait to get out there." • The two candida L Crime is down in Eagan this year Police chief points to emphasis on Geo Policing, communication with public by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan has always been a pretty safe place to live, Police Chief Jim McDonald said, with good schools, recreation programs, churches and a high level of community involve- ment all contributing to low crime rates. While violent crimes are rare, Eagan definitely has its share of property crimes, from vandalism to burglary. "One of the biggest crimes in Eagan historically, year in and year out, is theft," Mc- Donald said. Last year saw the city's crime rates at their highest in four years. There were 181 re- ported burglaries, 431 reports of vandalism and 21 reports of robbery in the city of Ea- gan at this time last year. "In 2006 I think we experi- enced a little spike," McDon- ald said. This year, however, statis- tics show crime in most ma- erh" „psi ta.7 jor areas, including property crimes, has decreased. Burglary, for instance, is down bya nearly 21 percent from this time last year. Rob- bery is down 76 percent, and vandalism is down 24 percent. McDonald believes that some of the credit is due to the See Crime, 8A 07 DODGE CALIBER TvLL$ $13925 00,615 M (un. iA 07 DODGE CHARGER Sedan, 3.5L RW $2O,925' RWO, Steel BMetallic. Metallic. Auto, 11,088 Mi inee 1-888-786-8622 07 DODGE MAGNUM 4dr SXT 3 5L, V6, Save, $ Steel Metallic, Auto, 19,407 Mi tales 07 DODGE CHARGER www.DodgeofBurnsvi OCTOBER 13, 2007 VOLUME 28, NO. 33 www.thisweek-online.com Standoff ends peacefully Man violated restraining order, holed up in wife's home for seven hours by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS An Eagan man who alleged- ly left two psychiatric facilities in less than 24 hours engaged in a standoff with police Oct. 4 after he violated a re- straining or- der and broke into his wife's home. At least 50 officers, in- cluding two SWAT teams, were called to the home on Cliff View Drive in Eagan, where See Standoff, 8A Joseph Porter 2A October 13, 2007 THISWEEK 0 5- MONDAY-FRIDAY 7AM- SATURDAY 8AM-4P t Check-u • Engine Oil • Coolant • Brakes • Power Steering • Transmission • Wiper Washer • Belts • Hoses • Air Filter • Cooling Syste • Windshield Wiper • Lamps Quiet down! Airport noise settlement will do just that NOISE FOOTPRINT AROUND THE AIRPORT Map shows estimated 2007 average noise levels, in decibels, based on a complicated formula. Source:MetropolitanAirports Commission West �,.� St.Paul Lilydale Mendota Sun - Heights fish ... Lake ,494 60dB StarTnbune • An estimated $127 million to help insulate homes in south Minneapolis is a special victory for Mayor R.T. Rybak, who fought for the issue from the start. By STEVE BRANDT • sbrandt@startribune.com RT. Rybak recalled the day back in 1992 when his wife, Megan O'Hara, got angry over airport noise and urged him to get involved. Rybak became a leading noise activist, and the issue helped deliver him to the may- or's office in Minneapolis. This week, Rybak helped deliver to his noise constituency. The City Council voted 12-0 Tuesday to adopt an airport noise settlement that city lawyers estimate will provide $127.6 mil- lion in noise -muffling work for residents of Minneapolis and nearby suburbs. Early Tuesday evening, the Richfield City Council voted unanimously to accept the offer. The Eagan City Council also vot- ed unanimously later Tuesday evening to accept the offer. For updates on the Eagan vote, see StarTribune.com. Rybak and several council members — most notably Scott Benson and Sandra Colvin Roy — got the city to sue the Metro- politan Airports Commission (MAC) after it cut back on noise insulation promises. "I got into this issue because I thought it was wrong, and there were promises made that were not kept," a jubilant Rybak said af- ter signing the council action. City leaders acknowledged the settlement doesn't get the full sound insulation package that already has been installed in the homes exposed to the most serious airport noise. But they said the payout is more than quadruple the $28 million the Airports Commission was willing to pay in 2004 when it throttled back its insulating plans. Noise continues: Noise -dampening packag- es will differ depending on location. B13 ► SOUND OFF: How do you feel about the settlement? Go to www startribune.com/local R Increased benefits and reduced rates are coming in 2008.* UCare for Seniors helps you get more from your Medicare plan. And, in 2008, our reduced rates and gap coverage for generic prescriptions mean there's never been a better time to enroll. From your prescription drugs to eyewear to dental, UCare is health care that starts with you! 1-877-523-1518 (toll free) I TY: I-800-688-2534 (toll free) wwwucare.org UCare Minnesota is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. 02007 UCare. H2459 100407_1 (100907) F Photo is of actual UCare for Seniors members. Health care that starts with y Increased benefits/reduced rates in 2008 compared with 2007 benefits/rates in Minnesota. Crime/from 1A department's recent focus on Geo Policing, which uses data analysis to detect crime trends and put resources where need- ed. Each month, the depart- ment's supervisors meet and analyze the previous month's crime data, looking for trends and hot spots and collectively coming up with strategies to deal with them. "We use the data to focus our resources where it's needed based on what the data is telling us," McDonald said. For instance, a rash of garage thefts in Eagan neighborhoods last year led to the creation of Footprint Cards, sticky notes used by officers to alert individ- ual neighborhoods or residents to crimes, patterns or trends in their area. The cards not only made res- idents aware of the thefts, they were used to advise residents who left their garage doors open to close them to avoid becom- ing victims. Police could also include descriptions of suspects and vehicles that were seen in the neighborhood so residents could keep an eye out. The department began fo- cusing on Geo Policing shortly before former Chief Kent Therkelsen left last year, Mc- Donald said. One of the few increases this year was seen in total calls for service, which were about 9 per- cent higher than last year. McDonald sees that as a good thing. The department has been trying to get the mes- sage out to the public to call if they see anything unusual, he said. The increase in calls could be a sign that people are getting the message. "People sometimes don't call because they say they don't want to bother the police," he said. "We're in the 'get bothered' business. We're telling people to call if they see anything suspi- cious, and I really think that's having an impact." Beginning this month, the department will post local crime statistics on the city's Web site in a more user-friendly for- mat, with information updated monthly. The reports can be found at wwwcityofeagan.com. Click on "City Departments," then "Po- lice," then Crime Analysis" and "Police Activity Report." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inn com. ley Koaci is tocatect near the cen- ter of the retail development. Commissioner Kathleen Gaylord, who with Commis- sioner Joe Harris voted against the resolution, disagreed with Egan and said she was fully in- formed on the issue. "We do know what we're do- ing," Gaylord said. "We do have the information and did have the information in front of us." Egan then apologized to fel- low board members and said that, during the previous vote, "the emphasis was clearly not to the other a '.• ints ... that's o unne conerciai tramc onto a residential street is un- precedented in Eagan, and cited concerns the intersection could expand in the future. But Eagan Public Works Director Tom Colbert said re- strictions in the development agreement won't allow that to happen. "I believe that's an unsub- stantiated fear," he said. With the last hurdle crossed, Stradtman said some grading work may be started this year, but construction won't begin until the spring. (the hearing) and let lawmakers know what they want," Garrison said. The hearing is open to the public. Residents who want to speak can call Committee Ad- ministrator Elizabeth Emerson at (651) 296-7175 or Masin at (651) 296-3533. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. "I'm extremely honest," she said. But she emphasized that this issue will drive her decisions at the ballot box. "I always vote. Believe me, I'm going to express my disap- pointment with my vote," she said. Laura Adelmann Ls at dceditor@frontiernet.net. be studying it," she said. "The bottom line is to make Minne- sota as competitive as possible." The bill was held over in committee but will be intro- duced again in the next session, possibly reflecting information gathered at hearings like the one in Eagan. The city of Eagan conducted its own technology survey in 2006 in which 24 percent of the APPLE FORD MERCURY OF -‘4Th NEWS ThISW* OPINION SPORTS Because the news never stopsL8 t This«-ecke,,�� Art and wine Two artists exhibiting at the eighth annual Canvas and Vines event to be held Oct. 18 in Burnsville share what inspires them. See Story, 3B County approves Diffle Marketplace access Entrance -only access on Daniel Drive gets green light by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS More than two years of controversy ended at a Dakota County Board meeting Oct. 9, when commissioners approved an entrance -only access point on a residential street to a proposed retail development in Eagan. Diffley Marketplace, an 11- acre development proposed on Diffley Road and Lexington Av- enue, is set to include a 43,000- square-foot Rademacher's gro- cery store and two multitenant retail buildings. The 5-2 Diffley Marketplace decision frustrated several Dan- iel Drive residents, who, with toddlers in tow, cited safety con- cerns. Daniel Drive parent Janet Westenberg said many families with small children live off the road, but there are no sidewalks, crosswalks or stop signs. Commissioner Tom Egan said safety concerns are the rea- son the county board is recon- sidering its April resolution at all. That resolution approved full access off Daniel Drive to the development, but conflicted with the city of Eagan's ap- proved final plat that provided no connection to Daniel Drive. The city offered a compri- mise of one-way access on Dan- iel Drive, but the county rejected it at the time, saying full access was needed to relieve traffic on Diffley, a county road. In May 2006, developer Dif- fley Ventures LLC sued the city, seeking approval of the original version of its plan, which in- cludes access to residential street Daniel Drive. The lawsuit was dismissed. yet an appeal was in process, said David Stradtman, director of development with Reliance Development, the managing partner of project developer Diffley Ventures, LLC. A closed -door settlement be- tween the developer and the city resulted in the one-way Daniel Drive entrance, but it again re- quired county approval for the project to go forward. See Diffley Marketplace, 7A LET US WORK ON YOUR CAR BEFORE WINTER DOES FREE road hazard coverage FREE lifetime rotation. lades (Call for an appt. to minimize your wait.) • Oil Changes • Belts • Coolant Service • Tires • Brakes • Batteries & Eagles damper homecoming Kennedy spoils homecom- ing football game by handing Eagan 41-7 loss at Wildcat stadium. See Story, 12A Listening, healing, caring Reynolds Rehab Physical Therapy clinic in Eagan uses a unique, hands-on approach and emphasizes personal attention. See Story, 10A Index Opinion 4A Religion 6A Education 9A Fire drill Photo by Rick Or,,dorf Eagan firefighter Lisa Karel shows students at Red Pine Elemen- tary School the inner workings of a fire truck Tuesday morning after students completed a drill for Fire Prevention Week. Got broadband? House committee will hear testimony in Eagan from residents, businesses about high-speed needs by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Are you happy with your Internet speed? Do you think the state should play a role in bringing faster technology to residents? Those issues and more will be addressed when members of a House telecommunications committee hear testimony from residents and businesses at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, at Eagan City Hall. The House Telecommuni- cations Regulation and Infra- structure Committee hearing will cover a broad range of issues, from existing levels of service and customer choice to provider competition. The purpose of the hearing is to gather information about technology needs and hear opinions on whether the state should be involved in meeting those needs, Eagan Rep. San- dra Masin said. Masin, who is vice chair of the committee, said members would like to hear directly from businesses and individuals about their specific technology needs and access, particularly broadband. "The bottom line is to make Minnesota as competitive as possible." — Rep. Sandra Masin EAGAN "We'd also like their insight into what the state's role might be to assist them in this area and what that assistance might look like," she said. "The question we're asking is: 'What part does government play in this?"' Minnesota's ability to com- pete in the global marketplace will depend on having an effec- tive, affordable and accessible technology infrastructure, she said. "This, to me, is a major tech- nology advancement that we need to be addressing as a state and a country," Masin said. "Other countries are already using it and we're way behind." That was also the finding of the Eagan Technology Working Group, formed in 2004 to study See Broadband, 7A i „ 07 CHRYSLER SEBRING ALL THE TOYS! Rear DVD Entertainment • Power Seats/End/ System Loci&Mirrors Leather Heated Seats • Power lilt -Gate and Auto Temp Cont Sliding Doors • banery • Tires 2007 MODEL YEAR END CLEARANCE You Choose+ 0 van sir Hard to Find! We have Them! • 3.8,Auto • Rear/rMeeirg MSRP $28,605 • It • Sunscreen Discount -$7.306 • CDbM�Phayer • PowerV rsr „a --�.. • Sn-Go Seals�hMrtors dS • QudSeals 07 Grand Caravan SXTr ,dal MSRP $32,010 Discount -$8.011 4dr. 2.4L. 4-Cyl. FWD, $ i 4,925 Stone White, Auto, • NE • A} • 6-Disc IND. MP3Part • Power Wlnctlocksi SeatsMirrors • SPeaker0Kwade 0 • isJurninum Meet 07 CHRYSLER SEBRING MSRP $26,105 Rebate -$1,000 CFC Bonus -$500 Discount -$3 710 • Auto • A r • In Dash CD/MP3 Player • PowerVAnNLodcsr Mirrors • Tilt • Case • 60/40 Rear Seat LIFETIME MSRP $19,295 Rebate -$500 Discount -$1,900 'uwprr•0,•d.kh'PP.1kh',itmaih'0Rsw•lrerlooses lrh'irl•40.1lRush'lswi•sM.PmbhilwM•ais00.trws0dllh'ir.fio.t9ir iwira Wm* esWins Grlil 07 CHRYSLER PACIFICA Red 2 4L. 4-Cyl, Interior 4dr Wagon Tounng. 4.0L Red, Auto,13,519 Mi $14,925 V6.. FWD, Silver Metallic, s 19,925 07 CHRYSLER PACIFICA 07 DODGE CALIBER 6r FWD Monne Blu4dr Wagon Touring, 4e0L $ F ND, S Or 1 $ 14,925 Auto .12.506 Mi 13207 Pharr by Erin Johnson Local dignitaries, including (from left) Sen. Jim Carlson, Mayor Mike Maguire and Dakota County Commissioner Nancy Schou- weiler join CDA Commissioner Barbara Blumer and Eagan's Di- rector of Community Development Jon Hohenstein at the ground- breaking of Oakwoods East, an affordable senior housing project in Eagan. New senior housing breaks ground in Eagan Oakwoods East, part of a county housing program, is set to open in Eagan next year as demand for senior housing grows by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Officials broke ground Wednesday on a new afford- able senior housing develop- ment, set to open in Eagan next fall. Oakwoods East, located on Park Center Drive, is part of the Dakota County Commu- nity Development Agency's Senior Housing Program, which provides affordable housing for people age 55 and older, "It's a locally subsidized program, so the rents are af- fordable," CDA Director of Property Management Kurt Keena said. "Rents are set according to income. There's a minimum rent and a maxi- mum rent." Oakwoods East is the fourth independent -living se- nior housing complex built by the CDA in Eagan and the 21st of its kind in the county. The building will have 55 units, including a one -bed- room handicapped -accessible unit, 28 one -bedroom units, and 26 two -bedroom units. It will also have a community room with a kitchen, heated underground parking and laundry facilities. Oakwoods East will be the first CDA senior housing com- plex to be smoke free. The minimum rent for a one -bedroom unit at Oak - woods East will be $340, with a maximum rent of $625. For a two -bedroom unit, the mini- mum rent will be $500 with a $790 maximum. There is a definite need for such housing in the area, Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire said. "A lot of us hear about the graying of America,: he said. "Eagan is not any different than the rest of the country." Maguire said that, in 2020, Minnesota is projected to have more residents older than 65 than residents in elementa- ry school, middle school and high school combined. "As demographics and the age curve are going up, we need good housing options for seniors," he said. Each of the CDA's 21 senior housing properties currently has a waiting list, Keena said. "In total, on all those lists is well over 1,000 people," he said. "So there's a demand, and we anticipate that con- tinuing out into the future." This building marks the third phase of the CDA's proj- ect, which includes construct- ing 10 more senior buildings in the county over the next 10 years. "We hope in about a de- cade's time to have about 30 of these buildings interspersed throughout the county," Kee- na said. For more information on the CDA's Senior Housing Program, visit www.dakotac- da.org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. r s r wanting our own document that is specific to the city of Eagan? Currently Tom Hedg- es job title is city administra- tor, but he actually carries the responsibilities and role of a city manager, as described in the proposed Eagan Charter. So why not change this? There seems to be a lot of support for Mr. Hedges' cur- rent level of responsibility. Several years ago the Eagan Charter Commission met with Mr. Hedges and also met with members of the City Council to discuss the differences be- tween these two titles. Some of the council members did seem open to exploring this change, so why hasn't this change been done? Vote YES to the Eagan Charter to get some things done and to protect what should stay the same. For more information go to www.chartercommission.com. PATTI HURD Eagan Editor's note: The author is a current member of the Eagan Charter Commission. MAC meeting helps build relationship To the editor: I would like to express my appreciation to everyone who participated in the Joint Com- mittee Hearing on Metro- politan Airports Commission Governance and the impact of the airport on surrounding neighborhoods at the Eagan Community Center. I'd espe- cially like to thank Chair Deb- ra Hilstrom of the Local Gov- ernment and Metropolitan Affairs Committee and Chair Frank Hornstein of the Trans- portation Working Group for bringing their committees di- rectly to our communities to give citizens better access to state government, as well as the other legislators, MAC commissioners and staff who attended. Holding an on -site hearing is more convenient and provides citizens better access to state government. While the communities that border airports receive signifi- cant benefits, they also face significant challenges. The consensus of testimony at the meeting raised of number of concerns and challenges, in- cluding: • Extreme noise pollution from the new runway • The lack of reliability of MAC statements • Concern about activity at reliever airports • The lack of accessibility to MAC commissioners The meeting provided in- sights into changes that need to be made to improve ac- cess and accountability where the commissioners are is concerned. This access is ex- tremely important because the commissioners are the deci- sion -making body. The gover- nor appoints a member to rep- resent each district, but there is a definite question or concern as to whom the commission is accountable. The testimony presented made it clear that the MAC commissioners have little interaction with the citi- zens or elected officials within their district. The difficulty of attending MAC Board meet- ings held at the MSP Airport also seems to be a major prob- lem with security measures at the airport. Changes in the various processes can resolve some of these issues. If the legislature continues working on some of the other concerns, I am hope- ful those can be addressed as well. The noise issue involves other agencies and dealing with those issues will be more difficult. We take great pride in the Minneapolis -St. Paul Airport, and our communities benefit by forming strong relation- ships with it and the MAC. Open communication to re- solve differences should con- tinue to make those relation- ships even better. SANDRA MASIN State representative, District 38A Eagan Charter gives power to the people To the editor: The letters opposing the proposed Eagan charter have a number of factual errors that need to be corrected. The Charter Commission is a group of Eagan residents who volunteer their time just like the citizens who volunteer on the city commissions. And just like the citizens on the city commissions our goal is to im- prove how our city operates. The Charter Commission cannot change the charter that passes. In a charter city the Charter Commission, Eagan residents, and the City Coun- cil can propose changes to the charter that must be passed by a majority vote of Eagan resi- dents. The Charter Commission does not dictate city policy any more than the Parks, Plan- ning, Airport Relations or the Telecommunications commis- sions do. Just like those com- missions, the Charter Com- mission is advisory. In order to save taxpayer money, the Charter Commis- sion submitted the proposed charter to the city so the vote could be held at the same time as the school board elections. According to the League of Minnesota Cities, there is no evidence that a charter form of government is more expen- sive. Passing the charter will not require a major staff reorgani- zation. In fact a charter would See Letters, 17A In the Community, With the Community, For the Community New truck The city of Eagan recently received a new ladder truck, adding a second aerial device to the city's fleet. The truck has a 75-foot ladder and will be housed at Fire Station Two on Lone Oak Circle. SUBMITTED PHOTO Fire FROM PAGE 7A Start by making sure that smoke alarms are installed inside each bed- room and outside each sleeping area on every level of the home. Maintain smoke alarms and test them once a month. Create a home fire escape plan that identifies two ways out of each room and a family meeting place outside. Make sure the plan allows for specific needs in the household. Some studies have shown that some children and some adults may not awaken to the sound of a smoke alarm and may need help waking up. Learn about the needs of household members before there is an emergency. Practice the plan at least twice a year. Be prepared to act: If the smoke alarm sounds, go to the closest exit. If there is smoke on the way out, turn and use the second way out. If exiting through smoke, get low under the smoke on the way to the exit. Move quickly, but stay calm. The next time a fire is in the news let it serve as a personal reminder that many times fires are preventable and being pre- pared to escape from one can mean the dif- ference between life and death. Fire - it is personal. To learn more about fire pre- vention and safety, visit wwwfirepre- ventionweek.org. Judy Comoletti is assistant vice-presi- dent of public education for the National Fire Protection Association. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community None harmed in Eagan standoff A standoff in Eagan that lasted much of the day Oct. 4 ended peacefully as the suspect surrendered to police without incident. Joseph Michael Porter, 44, was charged in Dakota County Court with one count of burglary and another of criminal damage to property, both felonies, when he sur- rendered to police after refusing for seven hours to leave his wife's home on the 2100 block of Cliff View Drive. According to the criminal complaint: An Eagan police officer was asked to check on the residence at 8:48 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, after Porter notified his wife he had left the Regions Hospital Psychiatric Ward, where he had been placed by the St. Paul Police Department. COMMUNITY NOTES Porter's wife had obtained an order of protection excluding him from the residence, and police discovered he was inside the residence. After negoti- ations with Porter continued for seven hours, police convinced him to leave the house, and no one was harmed. When police entered the home, they found damage to most of the rooms. A large screen television was smashed, closet doors were ripped off, and a full- length mirror was destroyed. The laun- dry room tub also was overflowing. Police also found a number of notes from Porter. The suspect is currently being held in Dakota County Jail on $90,000 bail. -Compiled by Grant Boelter Immunizations Dakota County Public Health pro- vides reduced fee immunizations through the Minnesota Vaccines for Children (MnVFC) Program. Those per- sons who are fully insured for the cost of immunizations should receive them from their medical provider. There is a $14 administration fee per immuniza- tion. No one who qualifies for the MnVFC Program will be refused serv- ice for inability to pay the administra- tion fee. Clinics: Tuesday, Oct. 16, walk-in 4 - 6:30 p.m. Dakota County Western Service Center 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley Thursday, Oct. 18, walk-in 4 - 5:45 p.m. Dakota County Northern Service Center 1 Mendota Road W., Suite 410, West St. Paul. In addition to these clinics,,.immu- nizations are available by appocent. Call 952-891-7528 to schedule an appoint- ment. 4A October 13, 2007 THISWEEK Guest Columnist On Diffley Marketplace and balancing competing interests by Mike Maguire MAYOR OF EAGAN A British prime minster once said, "The art of leadership i saying no, not yes." He should have added to that the challeng of balancing competing interests, because sometimes it take political courage to say yes when some citizens only want you t say no. A few citizens have taken issue with the Eagan City Council' decision to take the lead in initiating what I believe to be a wi win -win compromise in settling a lawsuit. It ended a protracte community dispute regarding the area surrounding Lexingto and Diffley Roads and the proposed Diffley Marketplace. Unt Tuesday's Dakota County board action, we've been unable t fully answer citizen questions because the matter was still u der litigation. With the board's vote supporting the solution, t case is officially settled. Our job is to balance the needs and concerns of immedia neighbors to the development with those of the whole co munity. The landowner also has a right to reasonable use of i property, which has been zoned for commercial development f. more than 25 years. No single party's interests trump another' We must try to serve all sides. Over the past two years, the Council listened to and heard t traffic and safety concerns of immediate neighbors. But we al heard from many residents who want a grocery store to serve t area, and heard from a landowner who has listened to neighb concerns and wants to move forward responsively. In the southeast portion of our city, many residents mu travel between 3 and 4 miles to reach the nearest grocery stor Residents notice the empty storefront(s) at the shopping cent: nearby. The presence of a grocery store can act as an anchor f. both existing and future retail businesses in the area. For safety -concerned neighbors along Daniel Drive, the settl ment prevents development traffic from being dumped out int the neighborhood. It is an entrance -only access to the marke place development. Additionally, it secures a new $20,000 fun from the developer to address any traffic and safety concern While the developers gave up some aspects of their ideal tra fic plan, the settlement gave them a plan they can live with a move forward. For the community at large, a solution mea important new grocery and retail services will be available in t under -served area. Is it a perfect solution? Realistically, no compromise ever It's been said that if you insist on all or nothing, you will get o of them. But in compromises, everyone's concerns are heard a everyone gets at least some of what they asked for. The City Council has been sensitive to neighbor's safety co cerns, the property owner's desires and the needs of the larg community. In taking the lead on an effective solution, we' risen above the easy impulse to keep saying no. Instead, we sa yes, arriving at a fair compromise that balances everyone's co cerns while benefiting the whole city. Mike Maguire is mayor of Eagan. Columns reflect the opinion the author. THISWEEK October 13.2007 3A Cole's SALON Customer Appreciation Stock -up Sale! For the entire month of OCTOBER, when you PURCHASE any hair, nail, cosmetic, or skin care product, you receive a second identical product for HALF PRICE! com * excludes equipment *returns must be made within 90 days ley Centre 12 Eagan , Eagan Cedar Cliff Eagan Station 651 454 / 1390 651 456 / 9454 Savage Marketplace at 42 952 226 / 5310 . Bumble and bumble. TRUE 9i ... EMINENCE ORGAMC Skl\ t' lkt' EVE IN BANKING THAT'S FOR BUSINESS I I NUMBER OF SERVICES TO MEET SPECIFIC NEEDS 3USINESS CHECKING I lower transaction volumes. and no minimum balance .00 checks per month ($.35 per check after 200) when you deposit 150 or less items per month edit Card (with one purchase per year...credit partment for additional details. In Ir(`r` , A /I. •r-•-• Council FROM PAGE 1A However, the county has told them that the increased traffic would not reach the point that warranted a signal, said Public Works Director Tom Colbert. "They have continuously put that as a condition or as a bargaining chip to get a traffic signal at their north entrance point," he said, as the Postal Service has been hesitant to include the Denmark Avenue extension without the installa- tion of the signal. "We're trying to decouple Denmark from the Lexington signalization con - of the Lexington Avenue conversation, Denmark has to get done from local city perspective." The council said they would support whatever the county recommended for Lexington Avenue because it is a county road. In an interview Oct. 5, Mike Matusek, who's working on the reloca- tion as a consultant, said: "Our posi- tion is that the Postal Service should not have to pay for the completion of Denmark Avenue." Matusek said its current building is still fit for operation and that the Postal Service is relocating as a favor to St. Paul and Ramsey County, as its current headquarters are targeted for station, which would serve the proposed Central Corridor light rail line. "Those who benefit should pay," he said. He also said the Postal Service believes the current access point at the Eagan location is sufficient and it does- n't need the construction of Denmark Avenue. Matusek estimated the cost of constructing the new road at $1 million to $2 million. Maguire said the city would expect any private business to meet the same conditions, as the Postal Service is a public non-profit entity. "This does present the classic host city problem," said Community Development Director Jon Hohenstein. "We're ever hopeful to get some type of solution," said Colbert. projects at 1 p.m. on the secona fourth Tuesdays of each month, qu it- rarKWuy rtu ulleLl1u11 , qucouviao, v, further details, call 6F -675-5500. EDUCATION Parenting conference Attend School District 196's Parent Education Conference, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 27, at Eastview High School, 6200 140th St. W., Apple Valley, and learn new parenting tips. William Doherty will discuss key ways to raise children wisely in a "too much of everything world." Participants will be able to choose two of more than 20 breakout sessions on top- ics of interest. And, representatives from area organizations, offering a vari- ety of parenting resources, will be on hand. Reservations are required for the free workshop, sponsored by District 196 Community Education and Family Services Collaborative. Childcare for children ages 2 and up is available for $10 per child or $20 per family. Information/registration: 952-431-8780 or parenteducation@districtl Friday Oct, Saturday Oct 5:00..'. AFTER DA k S1L95 plus tax wristba Valid MALL 0 Postal Service plan doesn't meet expectations Eagan Council continues to ask for connection on Denmark Avenue GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS A message sent by the Eagan City Council has yet to be well received by the United States Postal Service. The Postal Service, which plans to move its downtown St. Paul headquar- ters to its bulk mail facility in Eagan as part of a large expansion, did not include the connection of Denmark Avenue as part of a recent study. The city has asked the Postal Service to include the connection of the road to accommo- date the increased truck traffic and traf- fic from 1,000 more employees coming to the facility at 3165 Lexington Ave. "The city is not in opposition to the facility" if the traffic standards are met, said Mayor Mike Maguire. "We must have that traffic consisten- JA. .,. (1 CA z Kc � /:,/ 7 Where the community looks for work! Sun Newspapers • www.mnSun.con 952-392-6888 cy and their coming can't do damage to our transportation system," he said. The City Council voted unanimously at its Oct. 2 meeting to oppose the proj- ect until the plan includes the connec- tion of the road, which would pass through the Postal Service property. Right now the facility has one access point off Lexington Avenue, where it has asked the county to place a traffic signal when the expansion is completed. COUNCIL: TO PAGE 16A GET NOTICED ONLINE AND IN TRAFFIC Link your Vehicle For Sale to your Online Ad with a Bumper Sticker for FREEQumpe�pd.c0m Visit BumperAd.com V 1� __..• (Magnets Also Available) Limited Time Offer a L t p n at al's Sleep Center. affects your disposition, your ability to and can severely impact your long-term health. xperience a sleep disorder at some time in ep apnea, restless leg syndrome, insomnia, disorders can all be treated at Abbott ter. ms while you sleep. Board -certified sleep ltation, treatment options and follow-up care. als who suffer from sleep apnea, you could d Mina HOME can provide everything you you leave the next morning. )r, check www.abbottnorthwestem.com • Accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine Is MPC Surplus Store Remarketed Merchandise at unbeatable prices • Computers • Monitors • TVs • Computer Racks • Electronics • Computer Parts Mention this ad for 10% OFF any purchase of '40 or more. 651-681-7366 2805 West Service Rd. Eagan, MN 55121 Hours: Th-Fri llam - 5 pm store@mpc-e.com 111,4T{8,42S PROtif14N4 tall/ORATION [-Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007- www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Tesseract FROM PAGE 1A "It's student centered," said McGill of the school's philosophy, as students are encouraged to dictate where classroom discussions go and to set improvement goals that are evaluated throughout the year. The philosophy, called construc- tivism, works on connecting learning experiences and developing the whole child, he said. Children also have physical educa- tion and music or art class everyday, which leads to the development of the "whole child," said McGill. There is also a focus on community as the whole school meets in the morn- ing to share accomplishments. "What's kept me around, is the stu- dents that are most excited about learn- ing," said Admissions Director Barb Elliott, who came to the school as a health professional when it opened. "Kids are happy learning here." She said she has also gotten to the point where former students are sending their children to the school, which makes her real- ize how long she's been there. Her grand- daughter is also attending the school now. "The other kids say, How come you're not our grandma?" she said. Tory Bunce of Inver Grove Heights currently has three children enrolled at the school. "We were looking for a school that educated not just intellect, but also the social and emotional side," she said. She said her family was also drawn to the school by the extra attention paid to language and physical education, which they weren't able to find elsewhere. "Physical activity should be part of your everyday existence," she said. Bunce said the decision to pay for three children to attend school wasn't one to take lightly, but it had to be made. "It's a sacrifice. But it's one that we rec- ognize is necessary to allow our kids to develop to their full potential," she said. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com-Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007 SENIOR CALENDAR Thursday, Oct. 11 - 55 Alive, 9 a.m.; Coffee Time News & Views, 10 a.m.; Bridge, 1 p.m.; Bridge 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12 -Bingo, 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15 - Bridge Lesson, 10 a.m.; Court Whist, 1 p.m.; 55 Alive, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16 - Quilting, 9:30 a.m.; Euchre and 500, 1 p.m.; 55 Alive, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17 - Lone Oak Rockers, 9 a.m.; Hand & Foot, 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18 -Bridge, 1 p.m.; Book Club #5, 7 p.m. Regular activities include craft ing at 9:30 a.m. the first and third Tuesdays of each month, euchre and 500 at 1 p.m. every Tuesday, bridge at 1 p.m. every Thursday and bingo at 1 p.m. every Friday. A Court Whist group meets at 1 p.m. the third Monday of each month. No experience necessary. There are also four book clubs that are always interested in new attendees. The Eagan Parks and Recreation Department supports senior activities. Unless otherwise noted, aid activities are in the Lone Oak Room of the Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central 14 • ral THE PARK AT MO Trick or. Treating Live Entertainmei (41676 SUN EAGAN Ilk OCTOBER 11, 2007 CURRENT 750 Vol. 32, No. 41 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com Tesseract marks 20th anniversary Eagan private elementary school rolls out lengthened school days GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS The Tesseract School in Eagan turned 20 this year, and it's celebrating the increased time being given to students each day. Already, the K-5 private elementary school offered seven -hour school days, but this year's students are staying an extra 15 minutes. "We just felt that we could get ahead of the trend a little bit," said Director Chuck McGill, as the state Legislature has considered lengthening the school year or school days for students. Most of the state's elementary schools have school days that last a little more than six hours. "By adding minutes to a day, I think you guarantee more instructional time," said McGill, as opposed to adding days, where you have to account for the begin- ning and ends of days, where the big concern is get- ting students into and out of the classroom. The school, which was started as a for -profit ven- ture and then evolved into a non-profit in 2001 by par- ents when the parent company went bankrupt, has a history of implementing progressive education ideas. "They started schools that really hinged on small classes and progressive teaching methods," said McGill of Educational Alternatives, the company that started the school. He said that practice continues today, as class sizes never reach more than 16. Small class sizes and daily Spanish and technology lessons also come at a price, as the annual tuition is $12,600. TESSERACT: TO PAGE 16A SUN NEWSPAPERS PHOTO Katie Awada, 10, left, decorates the hair of Hannah Schroeder, 8, right, during the Tesseract School's Fall Festival Oct. 4 in Eagan. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) ent -Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Communi n & Banquet Facility The "TWILIGHT" Rate beginning Friday, Aug. 31 for the rest of the season Unlimited Golf Golf w/Cart `33 (includes tax) Golf w/o Cart '23 (includes tax) 7 days a week Monday -Sunday after 2 p.m. Join us for refreshments in the Snack Bar i566 x2 PROSHOP �v. crystallakegolfcourse.com is League ' Couples Golf Outing -Once a month Wedding & Meeting Services g problem United Church of Christ in MH marks 50 years MEGAN ANDERSON • While many seasons have come and gone, Mendota Heights United Church of Christ has weathered changes for 50 years. Mendota Heights United Church of Christ, 680 Highway 110, was established in 1957, a year after Mendota Heights became a city, and continued to experi- ence growth. The charter ceremony Jan. 3, 1957, officially recognized the church, but it wasn't until 1958 that the Rev. Paul Dahlstrom was called to be the congre- gation's minister. Before a sanctuary was built in 1961, the church met in members' homes and Mendota School. "We are the oldest church in Mendota Heights," said Nancy Menning of Eagan, who has been a member of the church for 44 years. "At one time we have had up to four generations of a family attending the church." Often called Mendota Heights Church the church is still going strong with about 100 members, drawing people from Oakdale, throughout northern Dakota County and as far south as Apple Valley. The church hosts blood drives, mobile meals and participates in Neighbors Inc. It also offers a space where members of Hope Korean Presbyterian Church are able to worship. SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPER The Rev. Connie McCallister (from left) and mem bers Murray and Jeanne Lufkin of Mendot Heights and Nancy Menning of Eagan recent) celebrated the Mendota Heights United Church o Christ 50th anniversary. (For more photos, vlsi our Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) "We've always been known for havin a great choir and serving great food,' Menning said. The Rev. Connie McCallister bega working as the church's pastor July 23 bringing with her 23 years of pastor experience. CHURCH: TO NEXT PAGE Your Back To School Headquarters FLAT SCREEN MONITORS STARTING AT $40 NEW HOURS WEDNESDAy 4pm_ 7PM www.mnSun.com-Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 7A ll a y y n d e 1 s Fire prevention JUDY COMOLETTI • GUEST COLUMNIST It is practically impossible to read the newspaper or watch the local television news without learn- ing about a fire that has destroyed a property, maimed someone or even claimed a life. But, for many, some- thing like a fire is simply not per- sonal until it hits close to home, which is exactly what happened to the people living in the nearly 400,000 homes across the country that reported fires in 2006. Fire is personal and everyone must realize that they have a per - make it personal sonal responsibility to not only prevent fires, but also to be pre- pared to escape if one should occur. Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 7-13) is the perfect time to take a few moments to review fire prevention and safety guidelines. For more than 80 years this awareness cam- paign has been reminding the pub- lic that in many cases personal actions can directly influence fire prevention and safety. This year's theme focuses on home fire escape planning and urges everyone to practice your escape plan. In 2006, 80 percent of the people who died in fires in the United States were lost because of home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). A poll conducted for the National Fire Protection Association showed that only 23 percent of households have devel- oped and practiced a home fire escape plan. Although many households reported having a plan, the majority had not practiced it. FIRE: TO PAGE 11A SA Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007 - www.mnSun.com `FLYING HOME' Dakota Woodlands prepares for encore of successful fundraising event GRANT ROSTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS For the second year, Dakota Woodlands has handed out bird- houses and hoped for something big and symbolic in return. WHAT'S NEXT What: Dakota Woodlands Flying Home fundraiser When: 7-10:30 p.m. Oct. 13 Where: Ecolab's Schuman Center, 655 Lone Oak Drive, Eagan Tickets: $50, at the door or www.dakotawoodlands.org Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. The artist chose to go for simplicity by decorating Wal-Mart suit Employees statewide, inch AV woman, claim Wal-Mar for missed breaks, off-the- KATIE MINTZ • SUN NEWSPAPERS ing to r seem to For one woman, the After start of a wage -law trial ny, she s against Wal-Mart in mercial Dakota County District employe Court Sept. 25 gave a sense hers, an. of relief she wasn 16A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Curren Transportation FROM PAGE 1A "Dakota County does not have a proj- ect on MnDOT's table until 2030, and that is ridiculous," Krause said. Donahoe said reprioritization of the state's budget with a focus on transporta- tion isn't enough to catch up. Even recent legislative proposals, such as H.F. 946, which would have increased the gas tax 7.5 cents by 2011 and removed the cap on license tab fees had Gov. Tim Pawlenty not vetoed it, would only have brought in $692 million in new revenue a year - meet- ing less than half of the unfunded need. Lawmakers attending, including Rep. Shelley Madore, DFL-37A representing Apple Valley and Burnsville, said they would keep pushing for an increase. "I am asking the citizens of Minnesota to pay $1.58 more on a 15-gallon fill up to provide them with safety, to provide them with a way to move around the state of Minnesota, to alleviate the tax payers in this county of the burden of their proper- ty tax increases, to help bring businesses to Dakota County" said Madore. Others, however, said they did not want to see a dramatic spike in taxes. "We can't do everything for everybody all of the time. So, we have to then set some priorities. We have to decide what we can do and what is reasonable," said Sen. Chris Gerlach, R-37 representing Apple Valley, Rosemount and Burnsville. "Why are we not satisfied with trying to move the ball down the field to get to the goal?" he asked. "Let's just try to get those incremental pieces." Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 15A Costume contests nt Halloween Decor :K DISCOUNT id good on selected rides. 'ter 5:00vn: k AMER 1CA ,. , visa theparkatmoa.com 61,17 CONTINUED FROM THE LOCAL COVER Nighttime takeoffs (continued from Page 1B) a MAC commissioner, said last week at a committee meeting. "It seems like the city is right." Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire asked the MAC's Noise Over- sight Committee, which repre- sents the airport and its neigh- boring cities, to redirect more departures on two other pre- ferred runways. The committee Last month asked the FAA to redirect the flights. MAC commissioners on Oct. 4 also gave support to the change. "I'm pleased the MAC is rec- ommending returning to the plan that was agreed upon before the north -south runway," Maguire said. "It appears ... the FAA and the airports are work- ing together to direct night traf- fic over areas that are not resi- dential." Eagan residents began com- plaining in June about night- time flights above their homes, said Dianne Miller, staff liaison to the Eagan Airport Relations Commission. On average this year, the city received 10 com- plaints a week about operations on the north -south runway, which opened in 2005. Most were about nighttime traffic. "That's what's most bother- some to people," Miller said. Before the new runway opened, airport officials agreed to use two existing runways, including 12R, whenever possi- ble for nighttime southeast departures, which would direct Planes over Eagan Some airplanes are unnecessarily flying over homes in Eagan during the night, the Metropolitan Airports Commission reported. Residents in the city want more planes to use a different runway — now being repaired — when it opens later this month. 1621 cr; A es Min'l MINNEAPOLIS Runway under repair BLOOMINGTON ±771, Source: Metropolitan Airports Commission planes over industrial business- es in Eagan and Mendota Heights. But a MAC report in July verified that too many planes were unnecessarily using the north -south runway and flying over Eagan neighborhoods. One-third, or 134 of 400 total departures, used the north - south runway that month. Nine- teen percent departed from run- way 12R and flew over the industrial area. The rest of the flights — 48 percent — departed on the second preferred runway. "This is making sure we were compliant with something agreed upon years ago before the runway opened up," said Chad Legve, manager of avia- ST. PAUL Rivet /ssissipP EAGAN TA 149 oj 35E MENDOTA HEIGHTS One-third of nighttime departures — 134 of 400 — used the north - south runway over homes in July. PIONEER PRESS tion noise and satellite pro- grams. "There's a good case being made that some accom- modation can be made." Runway 12R is under repair now and closed to planes, but updates should be complete later this month, MAC spokesman Patrick Hogan said. The city of Burnsville also complained last year of planes on the north -south runway using a different flight path than airport officials originally promised. The airport this year redirected more of those flights over the Minnesota River. Maricella Miranda can be reached at mmiranda@pioneer press.com or 651-228-5421. ST. PAUL tt o- rs 60 n n to if st to e e e e lth help According to a Department of Defense Task Force on Men- tal Health report this summer, "38 percent of soldiers and 31 percent of Marines report psy- chological symptoms. Among members of the National Guard, the figure rises to 49 percent." The report found that the military falls significantly short of providing the help soldiers need to deal with those prob- lems for a variety of reasons. "There's no harm, no foul in seeking help. Raise your hand." Chaplain John Morris of the Minnesota Army National Guard Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D- Minn., also has worked to make sure soldiers get the care — including the mental health care — they need. On Tuesday, she held a veterans summit at the state Capitol. At the summit, Klobuchar said she would introduce legis- lation to "ensure that National Guard and Reserve family members have ready access to affordable mental heath servic- es. This will include requiring the TRICARE (military health insurance) system to reim- burse family members for counseling and treatment at state -accredited mental health facilities, rather than only those currently accredited by TRICARE." Rnehvl F, Stassen-Berger can be Key staffers named for GOP convention BY JASON HOPPIN Pioneer Press The 2008 Republican National Convention announced the hiring of more key staffers Wednesday as it ramps up its operation in anticipation of next year's event, which runs Sept. 1-4 at the Xcel Energy Center. Signing up for his loth con- vention, Mike Miller has been named director of operations and will oversee coordination of the event itself, including the 15,000 media members expected to descend on St. Paul. In addition, St. Paul native Frank Spicka, a 24-year veteran of the U.S. Secret Ser- vice, has been named director of security. The move brings to, about 20 the number of convention staffers working in downtown St. Paul. Eventually, the con- vention wants to hire about 140 people to help plan for an event expected to bring 45,000 people and international atten- tion to the Twin Cities. Spicka, who has experience planning and supervising large-scale events, will coordi- nate with local, state and fed- eral law enforcement authori- ties to make sure the convention goes off without incident. The Secret Service has primary responsibility for event security. Miller, who covered his first two conventions as a journal- ing and production of events inside the Xcel Energy Center. Miller will be joined by Joby Boland, who will serve as deputy director of operations and logistics, and Gordon Pen- noyer, who will be deputy director of media operations and have direct responsibility for coordinating the crush of media. From 2000 to 2006, Boland worked for former House Speaker Dennis Hastert, including in 2004 when Hastert was named chairman of the Republican National Conven- tion. Pennoyer also worked for the 2004 convention, as well as the 2004 Bush -Cheney cam- paign. In addition, Anthony Foti, a senior policy analyst at a Washington law firm, was named director of external affairs in charge of outreach to government officials, the busi- ness community, the public and interest groups. During the 2004 election, Foti oversaw a team of 1,000 volunteer Republican lawyers that moni- tored election results in key battleground states. "The hires that we announced today will be instrumental ... in terms of what occurs inside the Xcel Energy Center," said Matt Burns, a spokesman for the 2008 Republican National Con- vention. Jason Hoppin can be reached at �° )6/ 7 • Open House/from 1A exit a home during a fire," Lt. Lee Sonderup said. "We want to help with all of that." The theme of this year's Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 7-13, is "Practice Your Escape Plan." According to a National Fire Protection Association poll, the majority of Americans have a fire escape plan, but most haven't practiced it. The Eagan Fire Department will have checklists and ques- tionnaires on hand so families can plan their own evacuation plans in case of a fire. But when it comes to escape plans, prac- tice is key, the department said, and it encourages families to practice their own plans. "I can tell you our volunteer firefighters are really looking forward to this event because we're able to get one-on-one with the people we serve before a fire starts, so every member of a household knows what to do to prevent them," Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott said. Saturday's event will include demonstrations of a car extrica- tion using the jaws of life, put- ting out a car fire, and putting out a fire originating from com- THISWEEK October 6, 2007 9A bustible materials. Participants will also learn how to properly use fire extin- guishers. The department's specialty vehicles will be on display, such as its new water rescue boat and its new ATV, which helps fight grass fires in areas that are diffi- cult for regular vehicles to enter, like the Minnesota River bot- toms. The department will also display its recently purchased ladder truck that will help aid in rescues from multistory build- ings. The truck, which has a 75- foot ladder, is ideal for resi- dential fire rescues because it's smaller and more maneuverable than the department's other lad- der truck, which has a 100-foot ladder with a basket at the top, Scott said. The department will also be recruiting new firefighters at the event. "We really need daytime responders from all five sta- tions," Scott said. The Eagan Civic Arena is lo- cated at 3870 Pilot Knob Road. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecrn-inc.com. OA October 6, 2007 THISWEEK Mask -making class at Eagan Art House The Eagan Art House will and all supplies are included. offer a mask -making class Children younger than 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, must be registered with an Oct. 6. adult. Adults may register up Participants will create to three children. their own masks using pa- To register, go to www/ pers, beads, ribbons and exotic cityofeagan.com and click on feathers and go home with a e-connect. piece of artwork to decorate The Eagan Art House is lo- their homes or give as a gift. cated at 3981 Lexington Ave. This class is for the whole For more information, call family. Cost is $19 per person (651) 686-9134. NDC Chamber of Commerce Charitable Foundation hosts Hope For Tomorrow The Northern Dakota County Chamber of Com- merce Charitable Foundation has initiated a mentorship program called Hope For To- morrow at John Metcalf Ju- nior High School, Eagan. The program, developed 10 years ago in Bloomington by two professional women, connects young women in junior high or middle school with profes- sional business women and community leaders. The program is designed to help young women recognize their potential, develop con- fidence and explore opportu- nities for successful futures. In addition, the program will help to develop future leaders. utives and community leaders will partner at Metcalf Junior High School with 13 ninth - graders. Hope For Tomorrow has a curriculum that covers a variety of topics, including at- titude, choices and peer pres- sure, health: mind and body, dreams and goals, first im- pressions. The program meets monthly at the host school for the school year and also in- cludes a corporate visit as well as a college tour. For information on Hope For Tomorrow, the NDC Chamber Charitable Foun- dation or the NDC chamber, visit www.ndchchambers.com or call Ruthe Batulis, NDC Chamber president. at (6511q ek y c 1 t t OCTOBER 6, 2007 VOLUME 28, NO. 32 www.thisweek-online.com Submitted photo The Eagan Fire Department's new ladder truck will be on hand at an open house at the Civic Arena on Oct. 13. Fire Department holds open house by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Eagan Fire Department will host an open house during Fire Prevention Week on Satur- day, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Eagan Civic Arena. The event will help those attending learn about fire prevention and allow them to get up close and personal with fire trucks and firefighting equipment. "We know people have ques- tions this time of year about whether it's safe to fry a turkey, or children who have done a fire drill at school but have no idea about the safest ways to See Open House, 9A 2A October 6', 2007 THISWEEK `WEEK`S, dam"oris 0 CnO o pppGE BVRN941 t.1s Fo Setow MONDAY-FRIDAY 7AM-6PM, SATURDAY 8AM-4PM • Engine Oil • Coolant • Brakes • Power Steering • Transmission • Wiper Washer • Belts • Hoses it • Air Filter • Cooling System • Windshield Wiper Blades • Lamps • Battery • Tires offers good this wee LET US W GET READY FOR WINTER 41119 FREE road hazard k coverage FREE lifetime rotation. t• ert2007 MO LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Residents want answers To the editor: I am writing in response to the Aug. 21 Eagan City Council decision to settle the lawsuit with Diffley Ventures over the Diffley Marketplace development. This was decided in a closed -door meeting. Myself and many residents of the t Daniel Drive area want to know why the z city of Eagan settled out of court, a law- ; suit it had previously won. The settlement will now allow access from Daniel Drive, which is a residential street that has no stop signs or sidewalks. ,Nowhere else in 1, the city of Eagan will you find a similar situation in which such a large develop- ment (42,000 sq. ft. grocery store, bank, 0 drive through coffee shop and fast food restaurant placed on 10 acres of land and =� adjacent to an elementary school) with tremendous traffic pull, has an access 3 point on a residential street lined with single-family homes. Why did the city decide not to stand firm? Kate Boyle 1/2 off installation on a new ireplace or insert* and energy are ga'. i'- ...k. ihimnpy. THISWEEK Oetbber b,, 2007 3A Kline honors Eagan youth Tuberculosis cases on rise in Dakota County County spending about $300,000 to manage, treat disease by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The number of tuberculosis cases treated in Dakota County has increased from seven in 2000 to 39 currently. Without proper treatment, tuberculosis can be fatal, and was once the leading cause of death in the United States. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control states that tuberculo- sis bacteria usually attack the lungs, but can also attack the kidney, spine and brain. Tuberculosis is spread after a person with an active case coughs or sneezes and someone nearby breathes in the bacteria. People can carry a latent form of the disease, however, and have no symptoms Al- though they cannot then spread TB, they can later become sick with the disease. Of the 217 active cases re- ported in Minnesota last year, 13 of them were diagnosed in Dakota County. On average, treating and test- ing just one person requires 83 visits and 123 hours of county health department time. Public Health supervisor Kathy Wick said because TB is typically imported from other countries, the county does not catch all individuals with the disease, because the department is not notified of all the immigrants who are here. "Each case requires inves- tigation," Wick told Dakota County commissioners at a Community Services Commit- tee meeting last month. She said while 85 percent of Dakota County's TB cases are from patients born outside the United States, legal citizenship is not taken into consideration when providing treatment and services. Dakota County must ensure that all are cared for, regardless of citizenship, ethnicity, socio- economic status or ability to pay. In relation to those 39 cases this year, Public Health nurses or paraprofessionals have con- ducted 1,526 visits, investigated cases and provided medical ser- vices for tuberculosis at a cost of $322,000. Next year, Wick said the county expects to treat 40 cases. According to doctorswith- outbordersorg, TB cases are increasing worldwide, especially in countries like Africa with high HIV prevalence. Local Public Health officials are responsible for identifying, testing and treating individu- als with TB, and Wick said of those testing positive, about half are uninsured. The state has contributed about $33,000 in grant funding, and $31,500 more in state grants are available to help cover the costs. Commissioners were con- cerned about the costs, however, because the county is respon- sible ' for investigating "every disease that comes to our door- step," Wick said. Commissioner Will Bran- ning said the problem is state- wide, and questioned why the state isn't providing more of the necessary funding. Wick said the state recently paid a $44,000 medical bill for TB and will soon have another hospital bill of $30,000. Wick said much of the coun- ty's expenses related to tubercu- losis is for medications, and the department would like to see more regular and consistent al- locations from the state. TB patients have to take dai- ly take medicine for six to eight months. In Dakota County, Public Health nurses or paraprofes- sionals are employed to super- vise each patient's daily treat- ments to ensure the treatment is not interrupted. County Public Health learns about tuberculosis cases from the medical community, and nurses conduct testing of those people who have come into regular contact with an infected person. When asked how contagious tuberculosis is, Wick said, "You won't get it by passing someone in ... a mall." She said it more typically is spread at work, where people are in close proximity for longer periods of time. Commissioner Mike Turner said TB puts the pubic at risk, and immigration laws should be enforced or changed so the problem is caught before people enter the country. Wick said initial identifica- tion is a goal but is unrealistic because the typical chest X- ray does not always reveal any problems. County Administrator Brandt Richardson said the problem is bigger than the county's ability to address it. Noting that there are some national policy issues that should be addressed regarding tuberculosis, he said, "but our job here and now is to protect our community." Public Health Director Pat Adams said the county could work with some of the county associations to consider lobby- ing for change. Laura Adelmann is at dceditor@frontiernet.net. Photo submitted U.S. Rep. John Kline honored 11-year-old Daniel Commins of Eagan with a Congressional Certificate of Special Recognition at the Star of the North ceremony at the Lakeville Area Arts Center. Commins requested that his birthday party serve as a charity event to benefit the Minnesota Valley Humane Society. Rather than bring him gifts, Commins' guests brought dog food, treats and chew toys for the animals at the Humane Society. Kline plans to host future Star of the North ceremonies. Anyone knowing of a deserving volunteer should contact him at his dis- trict office at (952) 808-1213. 4A October 6, 2007 THISWEEK 0pfrnin Thisweek Columnist Parents can be charged criminally for hosting parties by Don Heinzman THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Under -age drinking at house parties is a growing concern in the nation and now in Minnesota. The city of Chaska is the first to approve an ordinance that makes it illegal for the host knowingly to allow drinking of al- coholic beverages on their premises. Across the country, at least 32 states have social host liability laws in place. Where states haven't passed such laws, cities and communities are passing them, just like Chaska. Chaska's City Council acted after the Carver County Board of Commissioners kept stalling on a decision. Mnrricnn (minty urhary the r>ia.r Aro, Letters Opponents have a short memory To the editor: The Eagan Charter opposi- tion has a short memory, only wants to paint a rosy picture and hide from the reality of change. Hundreds of Eagan resi- dents have found that the so- called success is a mess. Re- member the late 1990s storm floods? Remember when the council tried to sell Patrick Eagan Park? Or when they allowed multi -family housing in Caponi Art Park? How about ignoring the neiQhhnrc of WPctnn u;llc, erns. Our message to Dakota County businesses: We can't wait to get out and dine! RAJ MUKHERJEE Eagan Voting 'No Charter' again To the editor: In 2004 I voted "No Char- ter" along with the over- whelming majority of Eagan's citizenry who believed that the charter form of govern- ment was not in our best in- terest. Now, just three years later, I am being asked by the t lobbies on behalf of children, with particular emphasis on the needs of middle income families and children with dis- abilities — gave Wardlow a dismal 17 percent rating. The Children's Defense Fund rat- ings are based on votes legis- lators took on issues ranging from child care to education funding to health services. In 2005, Wardlow voted to slash funding to Minne- sotaCare, which would have thrown 8,000 parents off this program for working fami- lies (H.F. 1422, the Omnibus Health & Human Services Bill). Sadly, this echoes his recent vote in the 2007 legis- lative session against expand- ing MinnesotaCare coverage to more children. In 2005 Wardlow also vot- ed for H.F. 1976, the Omnibus Jobs Bill, which slashed child care assistance by $70 million. Coupled with his support that year for the concealed hand- gun law and his opposition to raising the minimum wage, it paints a disturbing pattern of Wardlow ignoring the needs of probably the most impor- tant 33 percent of Eagan's population — children. What is going on here? I hope Wardlow will listen to this constituent when I say, "vote yes, Wardlow, vote yes fldren!" CORY WAGNER Eagan Focus on the future To the editor: A recent letter spoke about "dysfunction" in our state, as evidenced by the collapsed bridge, crowded schools, and longer -lasting commutes. The function of attending to and even preventing emer- gencies and near -emergencies in Minnesota requires atten- tion and investment for the. future. The benefits of this focus on the future include a healthier economy, reduced crime, and a good reputation among the states. The goals of investing in our future are beyond the immediate benefits of trag- edies averted, success at- tained, and a state formerly renowned for the "good life."' A young person from a low- income home who has had access to health .care, pre- school education, and ad- equate attention in school, can make a better argument than anyone for the critical investments which contrib- ute to the. "good life." Those happy families who have healthy, productive kids and parents, whose towns are thriving and prosper- ous, whose future is bright, are products of investment, both private and public. We ought not neglect one for the other. CONSTANCE PETERSON Eagan Man sentence in high-speed chase death by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A man who led police on a deadly high-speed chase that began in Eagan last February has been sentenced to 24 years in prison. Harvey Mann Henry, 43, of St. Paul pleaded guilty to flee- ing a police officer in a motor vehicle, resulting in the death of his back-seat passenger, James Blakkestad, 55, of Richfield. See Sentenced, 11A tj Sentenced/from lA Henry, who was fleeing Ea- gan officers after a traffic stop, traveled the wrong way on High- way 55 at up to 85 miles per hour when he lost control and landed in a ditch near Highway 52, kill- ing Blakkestad. Blood tests showed Henry had cocaine and marijuana in his system at the time of the crash. He was sentenced to the maximum penalty due to his ex- tensive criminal history, which includes nine prior felony con- victions, five of which involved illegal drugs. According to the criminal complaint, an Eagan police of- ficer pulled Henry's vehicle over on 35E near I-494 on the morn- ing of Feb. 2 after observing it reach speeds of 80 miles per hour in a 55 mile -per -hour zone. Henry had two passengers in his car, a female in the front seat and Blakkestad in the back seat. Henry allegedly gave the of- ficer a false name and told him he did not have a driver's license. All of the occupants told the of- ficer they did not know whom the vehicle belonged to. When the officer wasn't able to locate any information on him, Henry admitted he lied and gave the officer another false name. A second officer arrived on scene and asked Henry to step out of the vehicle. Henry re- fused, put the car in gear and sped away. The officers pursued the vehi- THISWEEK October 6, 2007 I 1 A cle as it went through a red light onto eastbound Highway 110, turned south onto Delaware, went through a stop sign on Lone Oak Road and proceeded toward Highway 55. The vehicle then went through a red light and headed east in the westbound lanes of Highway 55, traveling at speeds of 80 to 85 miles per hour. As the vehicle approached the intersection at Highway 52, it spun out of control and land- ed in a ditch. Blakkestad was ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. Henry and the female passenger were taken to the hospital with minor injuries Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-ine com. 1 2A October 6, 2007 THISWEEK Sports Scoreboard Football Eden Prairie L. North Eastview L. South Bl. Kennedy Rosemount Chaska BI. Jefferson Apple Valley Eagan Burnsville Conference Overall W LW L 5 0 5 0 4 1 4 1 4 1 4 I 3 1 3 2 3 1 4 1 2 2 3 2 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 Friday, Oct 12 • Apple Valley at Rosemount, 7 p.m. • Ea an at Consistency lead Wildcats show up-and-coming Burnsville who rules the court in the Lake Conference thanks to smart play and big effort by Jason Olson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Two of the top volleyball teams in the area met Tuesday night in Burnsville. Eagan traveled down High- way 13 for its Lake Confer- ence matchup and returned reach its goals and the steady play of the upperclassmen. "Clearly this was the best game we've played this sea- son," said Dehlen who last coached in the Lake Confer- ence nine seasons ago. "The °i4/a7 City opposes post offic move without road Eagan wants a federal committment that Denmark extenstion will be part of possible St. Paul facility relocation by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Eagan City Council on Tuesday took a hard-line position on the potential relocation of the St. Paul post office to Eagan: It actively op- poses the move unless the Unit- ed States Postal Service com- mits to connecting Denmark Avenue. The council sent that message in response to the environmental assessment on the project it received from the Postal Service. The response was expected to be forwarded to Postal Service officials by the ct. 5 deadline. The Postal Service owns 5 acres of land in Eagan, ff Lone Oak Road and Lex- ington Avenue, that current] house a bulk mail facility. There is a gap in Denmar Avenue where it meets Post; Service property, which th city said was always meant t be connected. According to the city, th Postal Service is essentially us ing Denmark Avenue as a ba gaining chip to secure a traffi light at the facility's entranc on Lexington, a county road. County guidelines d not allow for a light at th location. "(The county) will no and cannot accommodate th Postal Service's request for signal when it's not justified, Public Works director To Colbert said. See Post Office, 9A .."- Post Office/from lA The Postal Service has been looking at moving its St. Paul sorting facility, as well as a sorting facility and a hub fa- cility in Minneapolis, to its Ea- gan facility since 2005. The move is expected to bring about 3,000 jobs to Ea- gan. The federal facility would be tax exempt, so it would not contribute to the city's prop- erty taxes, but it would have an impact on local traffic and infrastructure. The city has maintained that the only way it would be willing to host the facility is if the Postal Service mitigated those impacts, and at the bare minimum made the Denmark Avenue connection. Without that connection, all traffic to and from the facil- ity — from cars to 18-wheelers — would be forced onto Lex- ington Avenue, causing traffic issues and straining that road unnecessarily. The extra traffic would also accelerate the degradation of the Lexington/Lone Oak in- tersection, Colbert said. But the Postal Service's response to the city's needs "has not been as great as we would like," Community De- velopment director Jon Ho- henstein said. The city wants nothing less than a written commitment from the Postal Service, which so far has been unwilling to give one without the county's approval of a traffic light on Lexington. "At the end of the day, the biggest expectation that we have is that the Postal Service will work with us," Mayor Mike Maguire said. "But their coming (to Eagan) cannot do damage to our transportation system." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Sex offender evaluations costs increasing county ty Changes to state policy increase number of cases reviewed by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS In 2006, Dakota County citizens paid $899,444 to house and evaluate 16 sex offenders for civil commitment, an expense that is supposed to be split with the state. County officials claim the state has essentially shifted the cost to counties by not provid- ing funding. "It comes down as a huge unfunded mandate," Commis- 15 12 Dakota County Sex Offender Commitment Case Results: 2003 - June, 2007 SUN EAG 750 Vol. 32, No. 40 In the Comm, County's bars adjusting for smoking ban Businesses building outdoor spaces to accommodate smokers GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Since Oct. 1, regulars at the Apple Valley Legion Bar have probably noticed something different when walking inside. That's the day when the Freedom to Breathe Act went into effect and smok- ing was banned from bars and restau- rants throughout Minnesota. While some Dakota County bar own- ers have been concerned about the pos- sible effect on business, many of them have also made alterations to their buildings to prevent the loss of cus- tomers - the most obvious of which is creating outdoor patios where smoking is allowed. "I had to have it," said Apple Valley Legion General Manager John Wortman of the new patio that was finished in July outside the Legion's bar. BAN: TO PAGE 21A S\d." aµ CA' I. 4QJ41/J 7 e Community, With the Community, For the Community County board to discuss fate of Diffley Marketplace The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will decide the fate of an Eagan grocery store development at its next meeting. The board will discuss Oct. 9 whether to allow entrance -only access on Daniel Drive for the Diffley Marketplace devel- opment that will house a whole foods grocery store and two other commercial buildings. The site of the development is at the intersection of Diffley Road and Daniel Drive. The issue goes back to the county after the city of Eagan settled a lawsuit with the project's developer, Diffley Ventures, which partially stemmed from the county and the city not being able to agree on access points for the project. The issue was slated to be discussed at a physical development meeting Sept. 18, but county officials decided it would be more beneficial to discuss it at a reg- ular board meeting, as that's where the final decision will be made, said Commissioner Tom Egan, who repre- sents most of Eagan. "Procedurally there just isn't any perfect way to handle this," said Egan, because of the rarity of such an issue coming back to the county board. "I thought it would be more appropri- ate, because we will be making the ulti- mate decision," he said of the decision to forego the physical development com- mittee hearing. Egan said neighbors of the develop- ment have been notified of the meeting, as some have voiced opposition to the project because they believe it will increase traffic on the residential streets in the neighborhood. The meeting will begin 9 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, at the County Administration Center, 1590 Highway 55, Hastings. - Compiled by Grant Boelter AN Ilk OCTOBER 4, 2007 CURRENT unity, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com Back to the Middle Ages SPORTS Eastview frustrates Lakeville South PAGE 26A SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Kevin Myers (left) of St. Paul teaches Ed Carroll of St. Paul and his daughter, Alexandra, about the craft of comb making from animal antlers dur- ing the Medieval Fair Sept. 29 at Caponi Art Park in Eagan. The Society for Creative Anachronism brought visitors back to the Middle Ages through combat demonstrations, music, period pavilions and more. (For more photos, visit lour Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) 2A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, Oct. 4, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In th GREAT BM IITENSILS MED MILTED RUBBER SPATULA SCRAPER/bRUSh SAUCE bRUsh TheRMOMETE PAW bRUSh Li9HTeR) C FOR SAUCE) STiC1< Tongs TO tl9 / S PATULa COMbo Wry 1 1141VCV rRtTTVI e4. - J l"11 u7 1 rrC LVLNL l.V V CR Post office road (continued from Page 1B) Postal Service officials have shown little enthusiasm for the idea. A recent environmental assessment of the site was largely silent on Denmark Avenue, Maguire said. Michael Matuzek, a Postal Service consultant based in Denver, said he saw no reason why the Postal Service would pay $1 million to $2 million for a Denmark Avenue connection when it has no plans to use it. The site's primary entrance is on Lexington Avenue. He said the only reason the Postal Service is moving is to be "a good neighbor" to Ramsey County. "The Postal Service does not operationally need to vacate its current facility in St. Paul," Matuzek said. "St. Paul and Ramsey County obviously need us to vacate that facility so they can complete their intermodal transit system." Colbert called those issues a smokescreen for a side dispute with Dakota County. The Postal Service has pushed for a traffic signal at its truck entrance at Gemini Road and Lexington Avenue, but Dakota County has resisted it, Eagan puts snag in post office relocation from St. Paul The city of Eagan wants at least $1 million to complete a break in Denmark Avenue before the new USPS center is built there. USPS isn't interested. • Lone Oak Rd. Clubview Dr. Bulk mail center -- Denmark Ave.— eotthwood,o,� G 4.y. EAGAN DAKOTA 1 COUNTY NYankee Doodle Rd. PIONEER PRESS arguing that traffic there doesn't warrant one. "They're holding the Den- mark Avenue completion hostage to their demand for a signal installation," Colbert said. Ramsey County Commis- sioner Rafael Ortega down- played the impasse, noting negotiations about the reloca- tion have gone "up and down" with many groups for years. He empathized with Eagan's traffic concerns but said the transit hub would help offset road con - "They're holding the Denmark Avenue completion hostage to their demand for a signal installation." Tom Colbert, Eagan Public Works director gestion for the entire region. "We understand. They're making a statement. This is not earth -shattering to me," Ortega said. "I think there's a lot of con- gressional support for the move to Eagan." Ramsey County has been promised $50 million in federal transit funds for the bus -and - rail center at Union Depot, but Ortega said that money is meant to purchase the St. Paul location and construct a hub. Federal regulations require local matching dollars and impose plenty of red tape on how that money is spent. This isn't the first time that the Postal Service relocation plans have been hung up on traffic. In 2003, Arden Hills fought off plans to locate the new dis- tribution center in a former Army ammunition plant there. ma Seyf, 9, as her friend Mona Abdi, 9, tries on a winter coat Wednesday at Lyndale El there got new coats from the Keeping Kids Warm program, run by retail chain Charn itly used coats from two long -running Coats for Kids programs. For information abo rs.com or thesalarmy.com, or call 651-746-3412 or 763-425-7524, ext. 226. BURY ding up der Joe's 7 gourmet food chain ry's retail reputation Trader Joe's opens at Woodbury Lakes The east metro's first Trader Joe's will open Friday. 5 T. St. Thomas won't let Archbishop's comments about Israel raise c BY PAUL TOSTO St. Thomas leaders el Pioneer Press bring Tutu to campus of concerns about "hurtful" Nobel Peace Prize winner he's made about Israel Desmond Tutu will speak on a St. offend local Jews, a unive: Paul campus next spring about peace confirmed Wednesday. and peacemaking — but it won't be at The youth group that v the University of St. Thomas. at St. Thomas moved its MINN Don't worry about that EAGAN City tells LISPS to complete road Council opposes relocation without Denmark Ave. work BY FREDERICK MELO Pioneer Press Eagan has a message for the U.S. Postal Service: Finish this road. Or else. Citing concerns about truck traffic, the City Council voted Monday to oppose long -running plans for a major addition to the Postal Service's bulk -mail facility off Lexington Avenue South. The 92-acre site sits on a break in Denmark Avenue, and the city is demanding that USPS fill in the break, at a cost of $1.2 million. "To date, they've refused to commit to it," said Tom Colbert, the city's director of Public Works. If the addition doesn't move forward, more than mail deliv- ery might suffer. The resolution could have a domino effect, jeopardizing or delaying Ramsey County's plans for the Union Depot tran- sit hub in downtown St. Paul. The $200 million Postal Ser- vice project would replace the towering post office and mail dis- tribution center on St. Paul's Kel- logg Boulevard, making room for the adjoining bus -and -rail proj- ect, with potential track connec- tions from Hastings to Chicago. "I don't anticipate this will hold up the project at all, but that's up to the USPS," Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire said. Eagan has sought a federal promise that the USPS will com plete Denmark Avenue, which runs parallel to Interstate 35E. Officials fear that without that road in place, distribution trucks will overwhelm the sur- rounding area, including Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle roads, which is among the busiest interchanges in the county. POST OFFICE ROAD, 2B Furniture drive Students from St. Thom vent of the Visitation Sc 'Bridging Inc. to collect :families in transition. Don ered from 2:30 to 7 p.m. Fri day; or 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sun my, 949 Mendota Heights For a list of needed items, tions are tax-deductible t tact St. Thomas Academ DeWitt at 651-683-1530 for DAKOTA COUNTY Garden club meeting: The Rainbow Garden Club will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Amazing Grace Lutheran Church, 7160 S. Robert Trail, Inver Grove Heights. Margaret Lucht will give a presentation on beekeeping. The meeting is open to all interested adults. Call Barb at 651-451- 7672 for information. Fall orchard tour: Dodge Nature Center will host a hike through its apple C) orchard at 10 a.m. Sat- urday. After the tour, participants will press apples into juice in an apple press. Cost is $7, $15 for fami- lies. Dodge Nature Center is at 365 W. Marie Ave., West St. Paul. Call 651-455-4531 for information. NORTH SUBURBS Rice Creek Trail Corridor D cleanup: The public is invited to join the Arden Hills -Shore- 9 view Rotary Club for trash B pickup and a treasure hunt at p 10 a.m. Saturday at the Rice C Creek Trail Corridor in the a northwest corner of Shore- C view near the Mounds View- ti Circle Pines borders. Meet at t the ball fields on County Road s J (85th Avenue Northeast) and e Prairie Ridge Drive, east of a Interstate 35W. Beverage and snacks will be provided after the cleanup. N Chamber orchestra concert: The St. Paul Chamber Orches- tra will present a free concert at 8 p.m. Oct. 20 at Benson Great Hall at Bethel University in Arden Hills. The con- cert is a preview of a four -con- cert series the orchestra will present at Benson Great Hall W N M St h al bl he ce Su tr. LIr 0- IC 9/ Feeling the heat Photo by Rick Orndoll Eagan firefighter Tim Bush, left, learns how to extinguish a natural gas fire from instructor Steve Odegard during a training exercise with Minnesota Energy Resources and Northern Natural Gas in Farmington on Sept. 26. • Windshield Wiper Blades • Lamps • Battery • Tires sys em service. Engine air filter replacement. 2007 MODEL YEAR END CLEARANCE • Power Doors • MtiLock/Traction • Power Seat Control • Power Wind/Locks/ • Roof Rack Mirrors • Quad Seats - Stow-n- Go • Rear Air/Heating • Aluminum Wheels ~�V • Sunscreen MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,500 Discount -$3 106 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & lic. = 239 SO down, plus I' payment & lic. = $319 • Auto • V6 • Ar Conditioning • Power (wind locks) • Aluminum Wheels • Tilt • Cruise •97025 LIFETIME MSRP $23 Rebate -$ Discoun -,2 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & lic SO down, plus 1 payment & lic. Debate/from 1A 0 -I„ wLelL 9/2./O* with a presentation by Scott County Administrator David Unmacht about different types of local government. According to Unmacht, the Statutory Plan A form of gov- ernment — which Eagan cur- rently has — is the most popular form of government in Min- nesota. Of the state's 853 cities, more than 600 are Statutory Plan A, while 107 are charter cities. While they must adhere to state law, charter cities can adopt unique features that statutory cities cannot, such as splitting a city into wards. Eagan voters overwhelm- ingly defeated a proposed charter in 2004 that included a provision for wards, which was dropped from the current pro- posed charter. Charter cities can also deter- mine the authority of appointed and elected officials. The proposed Eagan charter would replace the position of city administrator with a city manager position that would have more authority to make decisions without the need for council approval. The proposed Eagan charter would also establish an open - space fund and prevent the sale of any park land without voter approval, and it would require the city to establish a five-year capital improvement plan. Hedtke acknowledged that the city is currently crafting its own open -space fund, and it already follows a five-year capital improvement plan. But a charter would change those things from policy to local law, he said. "The actions a council takes this year, in five years a different council can change," he said. "In the charter, the only way it gets changed is by the voters." Egan contends that the charter's open -space fund is a watered-down version of the plan the city is considering, and charters can always be amended to include "any objectionable element that was voted down three years ago," he said. The Charter Commission claims it's promoting better democracy, Egan said, yet it scheduled a special election in an off year with historically low voter turnout. "This is an unelected body. You're not increasing democra- cy by placing a court -appointed body between constituents and their elected city council," he said. Both Egan and Hedtke agreed that current City Admin- istrator Tom Hedges has been a big part of the city's success. But, Hedtke asked, what happens when Hedges retires? "Is the future council going to give as much deference to the person who takes that job, who hasn't been in the community for 30 years?" A city manager would man- age the day-to-day operations of the city, but the City Council would still set policy decisions and budgets, he said. Hedtke likened Eagan to a corporation with a $45 million budget. "In my view, a city manager is the CEO, the City Council is the board of directors, and the citizens are the shareholders," he said. A charter would ensure the things that make Eagan success- ful now would continue, putting the city on stronger footing to move into the future, he said. But ultimately it's up to the voters to decide whether there will be a charter and what amendments to that charter would take place. "The voters should decide for themselves," he said. "I trust the voters of the city." Egan said the city can change to a city manager form of gov- ernment at any time without be- coming a charter city. The Charter Commission is only pushing for the charter now, he said, because it knows the Legislature will consider a bill in the next session that would force charter commis- sions to disband if they fail to pass a charter. Eagan is an extraordinarily well -run city and doesn't need this change, he said. "Unless you have studied the charter carefully and are fully aware of all its implications, including the appointment of a charter commission as a 'com- mission of the city independent of the city council,' don't vote for it," he said. Copies of the charter are available on the city of Eagan's Web site. The Charter Commission has also set up a Web site with information at www.charter- commission.org. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Rick Monte grouped a series of Etch -A Sketches for one of his framed works. scapes while sketching his neighbor's home in the Ari- zona desert. "I realized I could do more detailed work — that if I put more time into it, I could make a really neat picture," he said. Eventually, he began to save and preserve his sketches. In 1994, Monte was asked to display his work at a jazz club for his first public exhibition. Monte illuminated one series of sketches with neon lights so they could be seen better in the dim club. Hours before the series was to be displayed at the jazz club, Monte cracked a sketch of a balcony scene while he was attempting to preserve the image. He quickly drew a new sketch of a realistic looking stairway to replace it. In addition to the illuminat- ed series, the jazz club bought a series Monte sketched of jazz musicians who perform in the club. In 1998, Monte's sketch of a 1998 Super Hawk motor- cycle was published in Cycle World Magazine. The Etch A Sketch head - Photo by Jessica Harper quarters in New York City displays Monte's design of a cabin perched on stilts in the mountains in Colorado. In 2005, he earned a ribbon of excellence at the Burnsville Art Fete in his category for a series that included a light- house, a motorcycle, a cabin and a nature scene. He earned the people's choice award for a series that included images of a still life of tools neatly piled together, his son's baby shoes, and forks entwined together. The following year, Monte received best -in -show at the Art Fete for a series called "Tale of the Fin," which fea- tures four sketches depicting the history of the automobile tail fin. The first sketch in the se- ries depicts tails of airplanes. The second and third sketch depicts 1950s car tail fins, and the fourth sketch depicts a man playing an electric guitar with a fin that resembles the tail fin of a 1950s car. He also earned the people's Tn� wL� � 4;z���� Charter debate draws small crowd Both sid es make their case at forum on proposed change to Eagan's fthe aof government Ea- gan should change its form of government and adopt a home -rule charter, which is es- sentially a city constitution. A proposed charter was submitted to the city last month by the Eagan Charter Commission, a judge -appoint- ed group of 10 citizens that "Unless you have studied the charter carefully foes ed turnin ing o explore gan from thea don't vote for it." istatutory city into a charter — Former mayor and council member OPPOSES CHARTER Tan city. Voters will get the chance to decide on Nov. 6 during a special election that coincides Both men appeared at City Dakota County Chambers of with School Board elections in Eagan's three school districts. Hall on Monday night to make Commerce. Mondays debate began their cases at a public forum About 30 residents braved sponsored by the Northern the stormy weather to attend See Debate,13A by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A city charter is a form of direct democracy, Eagan Charter Commission Chair Eric Hedtke said. "The power is put directly in the hands of the people," he said. But Tom Egan, former Eagan mayor and council member and current Dakota County commissioner, said approval of a charter will open a "Pandora's Box." "If you believe what Eagan really needs is a major over- haul, then vote for the charter, because a major overhaul is exactly what you will get," he "The actions the council takes this year, in five years a different council can change." — Eagan Charter Commissions hPORTS CHARTER • OF BuFINsvIL►-E 5- MONDAY..FRJDAY 7AM-6PM, SATURDAY 8AM-4PM • Engine Oil • Coolant • Brakes • Power Steering • Transmission • Wiper Washer • Belts • Hoses • Air Filter • Confirm Cvcto.,, For An Appointment 11 South and _8.8. 0 Road 86 LET US WORK ON YOUR CAR BEFORE WIN ecr a anItrpilfframn FALL MAINTENANCE SPECIAL 9" - Gas vehicles only. de thi 16 point maintenance good s week.°Son' Oil & filter change. Coolin SENIORS DAY VAN any oil & filter change 1!. 866-3 0-5499 QUICK LUBE SPECIAL CO MOW Oil Change 95► IC • Oi • B St. Paul online (continued from Page 1A) Ind Chicago have stalled after inning into technical and inancial challenges. Meanwhile, smaller cities ranging from Burlington, Vt., to a group of cities in Utah outside of Salt Lake City are shifting their focus to building broad- band networks using fiber-optic technology. Until recently, fiber-optic net- works had been used primarily for the industrial -strength job of carrying the nation's Internet traffic cross country. It was rarely brought into the living room. But within Minnesota, Ea an a group of Iron Range ci ies and some of the northern Ramsey County suburbs are studying whether fiber optic is a better option than a city Wi-Fi system. How fast is fiber-optic broad- band? St. Paul envisions data would travel at 100 megabits per second, or about 66 times faster than a business T-1 line from the phone company or a 1.5 megabit -per -second home DSL line, and 16 times faster than cable service. The fiber-optic system, which carries data on pulses of light, would be about 100 times faster than the Minneapolis' Wi-Fi sys- tem of about 1 megabit per sec- ond. Wi-Fi, though slow, has its advantages. It offers mobility because it can be accessed any- where the system's radio signals reach. It also was cheap for Min- neapolis, because the city con- tracted with a Minnetonka - based Internet service provider, U.S. Internet, to build the sys- tem. Minneapolis will be the wireless network's anchor ten- ant for mobile city services, and U.S. Internet will sell wireless access to residents for about $20 a month. St. Paul's broadband system would be fixed in place, but the 20-member advisory committee said the city could add a Wi-Fi service later though a private provider. That would let the wireless system piggyback on the fiber-optic network, which it would need anyway to connect back to the Internet. St. Paul's decision to pursue a fiber-optic network puts it on a collision course with the Twin Cities' two dominant providers of broadband services: phone company Qwest Communica- tions International and cable provider Comcast, which both oppose the idea. "In general, we don't think it is appropriate for the govern- ment to use taxpayer dollars to offer or subsidize a service in competition with private -sector alternatives, and high-speed Early estimates of the cost of a St. Paul system ran as high as $300 million, but now range from $150 million to $200 million. There will be no price tag until a more detailed engineering study is done. Internet service is a particularly competitive and robust market in most areas," Comcast spokes- woman Mary Beth Schubert said. "Government -run broadband networks are risky ventures that often rely on overly opti- mistic subscriber and revenue projections. When the networks fail to meet financial goals, the taxpayers get stuck with the bill," said Andrew Schriner, Qwest's director of public policy. Early estimates of the cost of a St. Paul system ran as high as $300 million, but now range from $150 million to $200 million. There will be no price tag until a more detailed engineering study is done, Casselton said. Casselton also argues that a publicly owned fiber-optic net- work would be open to all serv- ice providers, much like a public road is open to all delivery serv- ices, stimulating more competi- tion among providers, which in theory would result in better service and lower prices. "It's not really about speed," she said. "It's about choice." It's also about St. Paul con- trolling its destiny, she added. The city has a franchise agreement with Comcast to use its "I -Net" system for free in exchange for access to St. Paul's residents. That franchise agreement comes up for renewal in 2013, but cable companies have been lobbying to be released from local regulations, and that means the city could end up paying for its future Internet access. Leslie Brooks Suzukamocan be reached at 01-228-5475 or lsuzukamo@piOneerpress.com. St. Paul wants its Net built for speed City Council opts for plan to build fiber-optic network over citywide Wi-Fi BY LESLIE BROOKS SUZUKAMO Pioneer Press Minneapolis can keep its Wi-Fi network. St. Paul says Wi-Fi is too slow, and it wants something faster. Much, much, much faster. On Wednesday, the City Council unani- mously approved an advisory committee's proposal to seek partners for a publicly owned fiber-optic cable network for high-speed Internet access that could carry everything WHY NOT WI-FI? St. Paul quickly rejected the idea of Wi-Fi, City Council Member Lee Helgen says. Some reasons: Too slow. Typical Wi-Fi speeds are 1-3 megabits per second, but research indicates average users may need speeds of up to 25 megabits per second by 2012. It's flaky. Wi-Fi doesn't penetrate far into buildings; leaves, rain or snow can interfere with its signal. financed. But the proposed Community Fiber Network could be expanded to run fiber-optic cable into every home and business. from e-mail to video to phone calls. The network would serve govern- ment offices first and possibly add homes and busi- nesses later. The council's approval does not guarantee such a network will be built — the city wants the St. Paul Public Schools, Ramsey County and state government to join in before it goes forward. The cost could be substantial — esti- mates run as much as $200 million, depending on the size of the network. And it's not clear how it would be Proponents say it would offer the speed and connectivity that would give the city a advantage in the global competition for business development and turn St. Paul into America's most connected city. The city's approach would be incremental, said Andrea Casselton, St. Paul's director of technology and communications. "We don't have to bite off everything at once," she said. "We could start off with a very sensible plan and add on to it as it makes sense." St. Paul's move comes amid changing attitudes about municipal broadband net- works. Though Minneapolis' network, which is still being installed, appears to be working well, Wi-Fi proposals in major cities such as San Francisco, Milwaukee con hYf pie, 'Rcneer-Ree: /z710-7 qy z z_ / a ] --0,1 (,vr-Alc. Letters City shouldn't have settled To the editor: I am writing in response to the Aug. 21 Eagan City Coun- cil decision to settle the lawsuit with Diffley Ventures over the Diffley Marketplace develop- ment. This was decided in a closed -door meeting. Myself and many residents of the Daniel Drive area want to know why the city of Eagan settled out of court, a lawsuit it had previously won. The settlement will now allow ac- cess from Daniel Drive, which is a residential street that has no stop signs or sidewalks. Nowhere else in the city of Eagan will you find a similar situation in which such a large development (42,000-square- foot grocery store, bank, drive through coffee shop and fast food restaurant placed on 10 acres of land and adjacent to an elementary school) with tremendous traffic pull, has an access point on a residential street lined with single-family homes. Previous to the lawsuit the developer had approval to build this development. Why did the city decide not to stand firm on its original decision of no access and compromise our safety? KATE BOYLE Eagan that by following an undemo- cratic course they might have a chance. They hope that with a smaller number of people voting, it might pass. We have to prove them wrong. Go to the polls and vote no Nov. 6. Those arguing for a char- ter say they have dropped the most objectionable pieces, such as setting up wards. But if the commission comes into being, they can go right back to their original plan. Eagan can't take that chance.. Vote, and vote no on the charter. Maintain city's efficient government To the editor: Eagan is again at a cross- roads, stay true to the reliable course of efficient and respon- sive local government or opt for a risky charter plan that threatens to undo years of progress. Charter backers, a slim por- tion of the population judging by the last 80 to 20 percent defeat of the charter, hopes SHERIE WALLACE Eagan Charter should be defeated again To the editor: Thisweek Eagan's Sept. 8 is- sue discusses the proposal for a City Charter for Eagan. It has been demanded by the Char- ter Commission's 10 members. Since this same group had its proposal defeated in Novem- ber 2004 by a resounding 80 percent it should have served notice that we had no use for it. In the Sept. 14 issue charter member Eric Ve- vea shared his side of the "Home Rule" Charter while Mike Fedde — also a charter member — in the letters col- umn blames most :everything in need of repair in our state on "conservative politicians," including the murder of Dru Sjodin and the 35W bridge collapse. It does not require clairvoyance to see who, and what sentiments are behind the "Home Rule" charter. It is evident that these people have political aspirations not consistent with 80 per- cent of Eagan's population. They continue to push for changes because "they want to sustain themselves in the future." Another view accurately points out that "a small group of people dictating govern- ment policy to the majority should make us all very an- gry.„ This Charter Commission's ultimate goal is to control us for their personal or political gain. They don't care about us since this special election will cost us an additional $40,000 that had not been planned for. The taxpayers are forced to cough up this additional bur- den. Perhaps Charter mem- bers are counting on the well known fact that voter turnout for a special election is typi- cally 7 to 21 percent versus general elections between 60 to 80 percent. We do not need nor want the development of special in- terest groups that will cater to . certain groups by buying their votes. As a longtime resident I can confirm that the existing local government has done a good job. City Administrator Tom Hedges has unwavering integ- rity in his job. Entities such as the Charter Commission should by law be disbanded when overwhelming evidence shows that there is no indica- tion the citizenry has any de- sire for their plans. A second suggestion would require that any subsequent cost would be funded by the entity requesting the special election. HENRY B. JANDEWERTH Eagan Preserve Eagan's unique environment To the editor: The ECM Editorial on con- serving water is an important reminder. We all have a re- sponsibility to conserve water and preserve Eagan's unique environment. See Letters, 6A A call was made to the woman's daughter, who is an employee of the TCF Bank. The daughter was instructed to take a sum of money and leave the bank," Bellows said. The daughter was told to take the money to a location near . the Schmitz -Maki Ice Arena in Farmington and leave it behind the ice rink, Bellows said. Dakota Woodlands helps the homeless 'fly home Dakota Woodlands will host its second annual "Fly- ing Home" fundraising event from 7 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at Ecolab's Schuman Center in Eagan. .Dakota Woodlands is the only short-term housing facil- ity for homeless women and children in Dakota County. "We help women to do more than find housing," said Reyne Branchaud-Linsk, Da- kota Woodlands executive di- rector. "We help them to `fly.' We help them to fly to better housing, better education, bet- ter jobs and better futures for their families." Falcons, hawks and eagles from the Raptor Center will be on display at the event. There will be live music and appetiz- ers, as well as both live and si- lent auctions. To represent the "Flying Home" theme of the event, the auctions will feature more than 80 birdhouses hand -painted by local celebrities, artists and businesses, with attached gift packages. Birdhouses by local author Lorna Landvik, Lake Wobegon's Garrison Keillor and Kare 11 TV's Sven. Sund- gaard and many others will be up for auction. For more information about Dakota Woodlands or the "Flying Home" spe- cial event, contact Lane at (651) 456-9110, e-mail resource@dakotawoodlands. org. Tickets are also available at www.dakotawoodlands.org. from the bank. Response Following the district's emer- a voicemail from administrative staff at the lockdown build- ings. "Some students were aware pure-forman il different Discover- the differenc Leda Mel it. Burnsville Cobblestone Court 952 435 /8585 Apple Valley Southport Centre 952 891 / 4112 Eagan Cedar 651 454 , Editorial/from 4A ment budgets for years. That contributes to Eagan being among Minnesota's most fis- cally responsible cities, with bond ratings that put Eagan in the top 6 percent of cit- ies nationally. It appears the commission members are totally unaware of the bud- geting process and the city's long term studies. This past weekend, as I sat with my wife, Sue, thorough- ly enjoying the Greenway Music Festival at the Caponi Art Park, it occurred to me that it was Mr. Caponi's vi- sion, along with public and private financing, that made this city park possible. This and the city's extensive park system came about without the assistance of a charter commission. Then there is the city manager vs. city administra- tor issue. I have known and worked with the current city administrator for more than 30 years and he has shared with me repeatedly that as a "manager" he would not do anything different in manag- ing the city. While commis- sion members may think city manager positions are more desirable than city adminis- trator posts, it has been my experience during the past 35 years in city government that our form of government does not influence the num- ber of candidates that apply for such a post. Eagan is a gem for either a manager or administrator, and desirable because of its city council, advisory commissions, com- munity relationships and politics, not the form of gov- ernment. Commission member Eric Vevea wrote in This - week Eagan that the League of Minnesota Cities favors the "Home Rule" form of government that the charter group is advocating. This is not true. I spoke to League of Minnesota Cities Executive Director James Miller and he said "they do not advo- cate one form over another, they explain how the two are different." He said he spoke to his staff about how such a misstatement could have happened and he said "no one had any idea." This fab- rication is one of the prob- lems with the commission. Members prefer to not give the whole story. They also don't mention that while the unpopular ward system and other radical changes were dropped from the proposed charter, a charter commis- sion would be able to change that later, and there is little indication that their atti- tudes have changed on that topic. The charter commission makes the argument that Ea- gan is one of the few cities of its size without a charter. Maybe operating as a statu- tory city has helped make Eagan successful. Indeed, many may want to copy us. Why do we have to be like other cities? Why mess with success? Pat Geagan is a past mayor of the city of Eagan. Col- umns reflect the opinion of the author. the crowded classrooms, teachers being cut, programs eliminated. Give the students a chance to vote and you may be surprised that the levy would pass by a high major- ity. Stop blaming. Stop point- ing fingers. My goodness, adults whine more than kids do these days, and nothing gets done. Let's get it done. I vote for the future. DEBORAH MENKE Burnsville Thanks to 191 for hosting camp To the editor: I'm writing this letter to thank Eagle Ridge Junior High School and School District 191 for hosting the Camp Invention program this summer. There has been much dis- cussion recently regarding the need to better educate the next generation of pro- fessionals to fill a void in the fields of math and science. The Camp Invention pro- gram aims to help meet that challenge by inspiring cre- ativity and a passion for sci- ence in elementary students. I especially want to ap- plaud the outstanding work of camp director Joan Wright, her talented local teaching staff, and the cre- ative students in Burnsville - Eagan -Savage. SUSAN Z. CLARKE Regional Coordinator for Camp Invention Kitchen Supply, Inc. TALL SALE GRANITE COUNTERTOPS 8 COLOR $2800 PER SQUARE FOOT INSTALLED 2 CENTIMETERS & 3 CENTIMETERS AVAILABLE HURRY - OFFER DTIRES 9/30/07. nfr High -Quality Cherry & Maple Cabinets Are Here! Update Your Kitchen This Summer! Box Cabinets, Maple & Cherry Small Kitchen Flo' xlo,) • $1,500 Don't Miss This Special Sale! 2 locations: Burnsville & Minnetonka • Please bring this coupon I Coupon expires 9/30/07 ► 4A- September 22, 2007 THISWEEK- Chest Columnist Why mess with the city of Eagan's success? by Pat Geagan SPECIAL TO THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The backers of a charter for Eagan are at it again, and the apparent strategy is to make a few changes in the discredited plan to make it more appealing while still pursuing their basic goals. Making changes in a proposed charter that was over- whelmingly rejected by the people is certainly understand- able, but Eagan residents should not be misled. The threat of a charter is real, and it is fast approaching. The Eagan Charter Commission is an unelected panel, ap- pointed by a district court judge, following a dubious petition campaign. It is not accountable to the people, it apparently meets in private and its members are little known. One com- mission member, in introducing himself in these pages, said he "hates politics" and is not "beholden to any special inter- est group." That may explain part of the difference. As mayor I always felt beholden to the citizens of Eagan, having been elected to serve them, and I know that our current mayor and all of our council members feel the same. The judge involved in establishing the commission in 2004 apparently didn't have a similar view of democracy or accountability, since he over- ruled the city's objections to signers of the petition who were not registered voters. That can hardly be described as repre- sentative government. By all measures, the people of Eagan have been pleased with the city's form of government. Never during my tenure as chief of police or as your mayor did a resident express frustration to me about Eagan's form of government. It is only these few charter commission members with an axe to grind with the city who are responsible for dividing the city. It seems to me that they conveniently forget that they should represent the entire Eagan community. We can call the char- ter commission many things, but answerable to the people of Eagan is not one of them. They answer to no one. Your elected officials are very much aware that the voters put them in office and can replace them at any time'. Here is the threat: after losing by a 4 to 1 ratio three years ago, the group is focusing on a smaller segment of voters, choosing 'to go on the ballot in an off-year election. The charter group tactic is to end run the Eagan voters, hoping to avoid the high turnout of a general election and avoid an- other crushing defeat. If the charter prevails, it would open a Pandora's box, and replace a form of government that is democratic, working, responsive and representative with one that imposes a panel of unelected commissioners to monitor and direct activities. In a thinly veiled attempt to garner the support of the Ea- gan Core Greenway, the commission is suggesting that a char- ter commission has special powers that allow for special "new options and sources of revenue." The charter commission is not tuned into the real world. They're trying to build an is- sue by presenting half-truths, such as suggesting they would bring five-year capital improvement budgets. Rubbish! The City of Eagan has-been doing five-year capital improvement See Editorial, 5A Editor's note: Last weeks issue featured a pro -charter, guest edi- torial from a member of the charter commission. Letters to the editor policy Thisweek Newspapers welcomes letters tote editor. Submitted letters must be no more than 350 words. All letters must have the author's phone number and address for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. Letters reflect the opinion of the author only. Thisweek Newspapers reserves the right to edit all letters. Submission of a letter does not guarantee publication. THSWEEK September 22, 2007 3A e Township home vidergarten Center that police were there in the building," Meeks said. An announcement was made over the loud speaker about the modified lockdown situation. Release sent home Parents were notified of the lockdown through a release that was sent home with students. A few parents emailed the school district to ask why they did not share more details about the robbery and hostage situation in the short release, district communications spe- cialist Aaron Tinklenberg said. There are two reasons the school district will not share more information or details about an incident, Tinklenberg said. The first is because it is best if there is only one reliable and accurate source of information, Tinklenberg said. The second is to protect the integrity of the investigation. Law enforcement officials can- not always share details be- cause of the evolving nature of the investigation. "We let the police do their jobs," Tinklenberg said. "We heard comments from law enforcement that the staff did a nice job of getting the building secured," Meeks said. Investigation The Dakota County Sher- riff's Department and the Min- neapolis Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigations• will continue the investigation. Law enforcement officials are still working up a sketch of the suspect, Bellows said. Paul McCabe, special agent with the FBI Minneapolis of- fice, said the investigations are reviewing the possibility that a previous unsuccessful bank robbery attempt on Aug. 30 at the same TCF Bank Apple Val- ley branch may be connected to this bank robbery. "We're trying to determine if there is a link with the pre- vious bank robbery attempt," McCabe said. "We want to maintain the integrity of the investigation," Bellows said. "The bottom line is that nobody was injured and we want to get the guy." Kara Hildreth is at farmington, thisweek@ecm-inc. com. Thi Because the news never stops . f tan 1e www.thisweek-online.com County frustrated with USPS plan dealings Egan's trip to Washington, D.C., yields potential solution by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Dakota County com- missioners, frustrated with "gamesmanship" regarding the St. Paul bulk mail center relocation proposal, are ready to walk away from the whole deal. "They're just playing games, and I think you've got to call their bluff," Board Chair Mike Turner said after listening to Commissioner Tom Egan detail frustrations in negotiations involving Ea- gan, Ramsey County and fed- eral post office officials. At the County Physical De- velopment Committee meet- ing Sept. 18, Egan told fel- low board members that U.S. Postal Service representatives have withheld information, refused to incorporate the city of Eagan's long -planned road improvements into its devel- opment design, and have de- manded a signalized intersec- tion where county engineers have determined it is not need- ed. A primary concern for Dakota County and the city "We have heard rumors that there are stipulations that they will not use that money for any infrastruc- ture or improvemenets in Eagan or Dakota County." — Tom Egan DAKOTA COUNTY COMMISSIONFR of Eagan involves extending Denmark Avenue. The road has long been planned to be completed from Yankee Doo- dle Road to Lone Oak Road through what is now the west- ern portion of the USPS site. See USPS, 11A Septerfiber 22, 2007 THISWEEK iWEEK"S. MONDAY-FRIDAY 7AM-6PM, SATURDAY SAM-4PM • Engine Oil • Coolant • Brakes • Power Steering • Transmission • • Appointment LET US WORK ON YOUR CAR BEFORE WIN �l a �a %r; ^, C • • -350- _ L.99 c.? FALL SENIORS DAY MAINTENANCE SPECIAL MEI Gas vehicles only. fano any oil & anis is SatCadet*/ NO SCHOOL TODAY /zL USPS/from 1A Egan noted that any other developer would have to allow for the road's construction, but USPS has not committed to do- ing so. In addition, Egan was upset that Ramsey County officials have not shared details of the financial agreement with USPS, which could dictate whether there is any money available for the Denmark project. "Ramsey County refuses to disclose any of the details con- cerning what is actually in the purchase agreement between the post office and Ramsey County," Egan said. He added that there is pro- posed to be between $42 and $50 million exchanging hands, but the county has not been privy to where the money is go- ing. "We have heard rumors that there are stipulations that they will not use that money for any infrastructure improvements in Eagan or Dakota County," Egan said. During an Aug. 20 "Post Office Partnership" meeting, Egan said USPS representatives indicated Denmark would be extended and Dakota County's other concerns would be ad- dressed; however, after the meeting, they returned to their original positions and refused to follow through with what had been discussed, according to Egan. He added that the post office officials want to have all traffic routed to Gemini Road, and are demanding the intersection be signalized. In a letter to USPS project manager Lawrence Duss, Eagan and Dakota County engineers stated signals at Gemini Road are not necessary and said the issue "is not one that can be negotiated as part of an overall package of considerations." In light of the problems, commissioners evaluated the real benefit Dakota County would gain from consolidating and relocating the Minneapolis and St. Paul post offices into Eagan. Turner questioned whether there would be any new jobs cre- ated by the change. "To me, Thompson West is a better project. If it can't work out and they continue to spin wheels, just say, `Hey, fmd some- place else," Turner said. With those words echoed from board members, Egan left the meeting for a previously planned trip to Washington, D.C., to meet wjth the area's congressional delegation. He was part of a coalition that in- cluded local mayors, various government staff members and six of the seven Ramsey County Board members. During each meeting with the representatives and their staffs, Egan made a point to dis- cuss the USPS issue. Late Wednesday night, Egan reported the meetings went "ex- ceedingly well" and was confi- dent a compromise would be reached. The compromise is that Da- kota County allow the signal at Gemini, and USPS will allow Denmark to be extended across its property, with some kind of shared funding agreement. With involvement from the offices of Sen. Norm Coleman, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. John Kline and others, Egan was confident the situation can be resolved. Ramsey County commis- sioners also said money would be available from the $52 million in federal funding earmarked for the relocation project that could be used for Denmark Avenue. The Union Depot is planned to become a multimodal transit hub as part of the riverfront de- velopment. "I feel very good about it all. I came out feeling very victori- ous, like we were listened to, and that we can get issues resolved," said Egan. Laura Adelmann is at dcedi tor@ fron tiernet. net. I dining tykentertainment guide Musical trip takes viewers `Across the Universe' by Wendy Scbadewald THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS "Across the Universe" (PG- 13) (3) [Some drug content, nudity, sexuality, violence, and language.] — Memorable Bea- tle songs create the story -line for this unusual, highly imagi- native, visually stunning, psy- chedelic musical set against the political strife of the Vietnam era about a British ship welder (Jim Sturgess) from Liverpool who searches for his estranged dad (Robert Clohessy) in r 8 ree re to Rating system: 4=Don't miss, 3=Good, 2=Worth a look, 1=Forget it www.shortredheadreelreviews.com America in the 1960s and is befriended by an eventually drafted Ivy League dropout (Joe Anderson), his anti -war protesting sister (Evan Rachel Wood), and various Bohemi- IMMO i Hungry For Fresh Apples? Come & Have Some Fun! � • Pick your own & pre -picked apples 1 • Wagon rides on weekends • Farm animals for the kids 1 I •7 acre Corn Maze • Take & Bake Apple Pies ' Bring this ad for SOC off price of hand -dipped • rnrnn+ai nnnla with eeunnn_ Ern. 9/30/07 1 ans (Bono, Dana Fuchs, Mar- tin Luther, T.V. Carpio, et al.) in New York City. "The Bothersome Man" (NR) (3) [Subtitled.] [Plays Sept. 21-27 at Oak St. Cin- ema; for show times, call (612) 331-7563 or log on to www. mnfilmarts.org.] — An eerie and captivating Norwegian film about a suicidal man (Trond Fausa Aurvaag) with no memory, who finds he does not fit in with the other happy, robotic inhabitants (Johannes Joner) of a strange city when he is given a mundane job and a wife (Petronella Barker), has an affair with a beautiful blond (Birgitte Larsen), and then looks for an escape route in the apartment of a patron (Per Schaaning) he met in a bar. "The Brave One" (R) (2) rc+,-....... .,,,,l...,.e 1.n111.,1,11)P Because the news never stops %9 www.thisweek-online.com Eagan woman killed in crash Alyssa Boehme, 18, was Eagan High School graduate by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Alyssa Jo Danielle Boehme, 18, had a big heart, her family said. A 2007 graduate of Eagan High School, Boehme was involved in youth groups and enjoyed working with special education students. She also loved singing and was study- ing to be a nurse practitioner at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. "She was a wonderful per- son. Very caring," Boehme's mother Darcy said. "She was very outgoing and loved to help people. She was a lead- er." Boehme was driving home for the weekend on Sept. 7 when her 1992 Cutlass Ciera was struck by a 2002 BMW SUV at an intersection in Hampton Township. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities believe Boehme may have run a stop sign at the intersection. The driver that struck her vehicle did not have a stop sign. "She was a very careful driver. She would criticize me when I didn't turn my blinker on soon enough," Darcy said. "I was extremely, shocked to hear she missed a stop sign." Boehme was a cautious driver who always wore her seatbelt and kept two first - aid kits in her car because she liked to be prepared, Darcy said. Darcy believes that Boehme Alyssa Boehme had gotten lost and missed her turn because she had never taken that way home before. "She was coming home for the weekend. She wanted to get some photos and things to personalize her dorm, and she wanted to see her family and friends. She missed her fam- ily," she said. "And she wanted me to do some of her laun- dry." According to the Dako- ta County Sheriff's Office, Boehme was driving west- bound on County Road 80 around 7:30 p.m. when she was struck broadside by an SUV that was travelling north- bound on County Road 47. The driver of the SUV, Rutvij Siddarth Munshi, 34, of Faribault was taken by am- bulance to Regina Hospital in Hastings with minor injuries. See Boehme, 7A 2A September 15, 2007 THISWEEK Auto, Air, CD Player. Power (windows. Locks. Mirrors). Fog lamps, Rear Slider ^vinnead Console. Sinus Radio #98218 -IT DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER! ON EVERY '07 GRAND CARAVAN, DAKOTA & Appointment ALL THE TOYS! • Power Driver & Pass. • Leather Seats Seat • Heated Seats • 3-Zone Temp Control • Power Liftgate • In -Dash 6-Disc • Rear Seat Video CD/DVD/MP3 • Wireless Headphones • Infinity Speakers South Boehme/from IA Both drivers were the lone oc- cupants in their vehicles and both were wearing their seat - belts, Chief Deputy Sheriff Dave Bellows said. While blood tests are stan- dard procedure after a fatal accident, "we had no reason to believe that alcohol was a factor," Bellows said. The investigation into the accident is ongoing, he said. Darcy said that Boehme will be remembered as some- one who loved people and was close to her family, which included several siblings, half siblings, awl step siblings. "But she counted them all as brothers and sisters," she said. "And she was a god- mother. She doted on her god- son." Funeral services were held for Boehme on Thursday, Sept. 13 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Eagan. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. iy Not see rt re built in your home to s your money. With our low nts and fast decisions, why gs you can do. Give us a ) or a click at usbank.com. ik. one Knows someone w�io a experienced it," she said. Black Diamond Liquors is located at 525 Diffley Road, Eagan, on the corner of Diffley and Highway 3. For more information, contact Black Diamond Li- quors at (651) 294-0990. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. OIL, LUTE & FILTER le :e Domestic dispute leads to standoff with police Suspect was armed inside his Eagan home by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The SWAT team was called in, and crisis negotiators were just about to make contact when, after an hour-long standoff that began with an alleged domestic assault, an armed suspect surrendered himself to police outside his Eagan home. Eagan police had respond- ed to the home on the 3200 block of Valley Ridge Drive at 11:23 p.m. on Tuesday after receiving a report of a domes- tic dispute between a man and his girlfriend. According to police, the call came from the mother of the female victim, who told officers her daughter's boy- friend, Ray Shantell Walker, was assaulting her daughter. When officers arrived, the 1-1,4 1-'Li°74 Vo^% A Ray Walker side the house. The victim showed signs of injuries on her face. Officers learned that there were also three young children in the home. Officers called in the SWAT team and crisis negotiators to deal with the situation. Just as negotiators were about to make contact with Walker by phone at about 12:30 a.m., he came out of the house and surrendered him - See Standoff, 7A female vic- tim met them outside and told them Walker had a gun and had threatened to shoot police officers if they went in - 'EXIT! L J • •11 1 r• 8 IIc. = 299 Mc. = $359 plus 1st payment S lk. s S259 us 1st payment S k. c S335 MSRP $24,420 Rebate-$2,000 Discount -52.525 MSRP Rebate Discount MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4.500 Discount -$2 2,000 down, plus 1" payment& Ii0 = '179 .0 down, plus 1^ payment B I& = "235 $32.010 -$4,500 -$3,111 2,000 down, plus I' payme '0 down, plus 1' payment Air. Auto. CD Player. Power (Windows. Locks. Mirrors) Anti -Lock Brakes. Trailer Tow #99019 S2A00 dorm, plus 1at payment 8 00. = 5299 Se dews. dos 110 payment & Ile. s S379 •g reMeday End Moues la'&&mow ob 0°:adJMv6w d Pekoe Psalms 9a:m,. 06 CHRYSLER PACIFICA 06 CHRYSLER 300 CAA AAt Standoff/from 1A self to police without inci- dent. Police believe that Walker was talking on the phone with someone who encouraged him to surrender to police. The three children were un- harmed. Walker, 30, has been charged with domestic assault, a misdemeanor. Police said they had not been called to that address in the past, but Walker has a his- tory of convictions in Minne- sota. In 1995 he was convicted of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and unlawful posses- sion of a weapon, and in 2003 he was convicted on felony —�- p l d Lc Lam` t drug charges. In 2007 Cv=ill convicted for failing to register as a predatory offender. Police are still investigating whether Walker was living at the home with the three chil- dren. If so, he could face ad- ditional charges. This was an unusual situ- ation for a domestic dispute, Eagan Police Officer Danielle Anselment said. "The majority we respond to are verbal domestics," she said. "Once someone threat- ens to harm or shoot a police officer or someone else, that takes it to a whole new level." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. *A a ur bank have? bank. Five Star Service Guaranteed *f� ced Rate Option (FRO) within a U.S. Bank Equlline Home Equity . The APR on the variable portion of the Equiline will vary with ter than 25% APR or lower than 4.99% APR. A $10,000 initial subject to normal credit approval. Rates are subject to change. dy of interest. Some restrictions may apply. Home Equity Loans 9/15.781372a.A i INCLUDES FREE MAINTENANCE INSPECTION! Includes up to 5 quarts premium brand oil and new oil filter, free chassis lube; check all fluid levels. Most cars and light trucks. Environmental fee extra. Diesels extra. Synthetic al extra. Expires 10/31/07. With coupon Not valid with other offers. i COMPLETE CAR CARE AAA Auto I Service A Burnsville Goodyear 952-882-0455 1 12000 Co. Rd 11 at Hwy.13 .1,13 (4! • a GOODTVEAR r J-LLr t� ti ter lb3/07 Council sets date for charter referendum Residents to decide on charter the same day as school board elections GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Voters in Eagan will head to the booth only once this fall. The Eagan City Council voted unani- mously Sept. 4 to put a question about the establishment of a city charter to voters Nov 6 in hopes of maximizing voter turnout. School board elections are also scheduled for that day. While Mayor Mike Maguire and council members Paul Bakken and Peggy Carlson spoke out against the timing of the special election called for by the Eagan Charter Commission, in the end, they were required by law to set a date for it this fall. "I am deeply concerned about the timing of this election," said Maguire. "There are not a lot of good options. There are some slightly less bad options." Maguire said he wasn't in favor of asking voters about changing the struc- ture of the city government in an odd - year election where voter turnout is tra- ditionally lower than in even -year elec- tions. The Charter Commission submit- ted a request for a referendum to the city clerk Aug. 21 and under law, the city had 90 days to set a date for the election. Carlson said members of the Charter Commission should have given more public notice of their intent to have an election this fall. "I feel like we've been stealth bombed here," she said. While council members were critical of the way the issue was handled, they reiterated that the city or the council did not have and, by law, could not take an official stance on the issue. Maguire said council members do have the right to voice their opinions as private resi- dents, however. Copies of the charter will be avail- able at City Hall and can be obtained at no cost by residents. COUNCIL: TO PAGE 26A w o was rave mg wi • fierce. Police estimate the items that were stolen from cars and garages were worth more than $1,000. Two laptop computers, a 42-inch televi- sion, an iPod and a high -definition DVD player were among the items. According to the police, the vehi- cle the suspects were driving was stolen in West St. Paul. Pierce faces up to 20 years in jail and a $35,000 fine for each burglary count. He faces up to three years and a $5,000 fine for fleeing a police officer. His bail is set at $20,000 and his next court appearance is Oct. 1 in Hastings. - Compiled by Grant Boelter (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a let- ter to the editor at suncur- rentsouth@acnpapers.com.) • co-) Council w'►•'—✓ elNS 07 In the Community, With the Community, For the Community FROM PAGE 1 A It will also be posted on the city's website. The city will also send a bulk mailing to all residents informing them of the election. In other council news: • The council approved its prelimi- nary 2008 budget and property tax levy. As a result, the total levy cannot exceed $24,659,512, which means the levy will not result in more than a 5 percent total increase from 2007. The preliminary levy remained the same as discussed at an August meeting, with a $40,000 increase for election -relat- ed costs that weren't originally con- tained in the budget. The city will use contingency funds to cover the November elections, which will be reim- bursed after the taxes for 2008 are received. • The council amended its formula for parks dedication fees charged to s- cussed at a May meeting, where the council discovered that a formula developed last November to comply with a new state law almost doubled what new developments would have paid under the old formula. The former state law required cities to charge builders per acreage on the lot, where the new formula relates to the square footage of the building. The council voted to change the for- mula so that new commercial develop- ments will pay $869 per 1,000 square feet, as opposed to $1,717. Industrial develop- ments will pay $236 per 1,000 square feet, instead of $483. I think adjusting this formula is the right thing to do," said Maguire. • The council also approved a rezon- ing measure that will allow for the con- struction of a 55-unit addition to the Dakota County Community Development Agency's Oakwoods senior housing facility. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) In the Community, With the Community, For the Community EDUCATION District 196 honored For the fifth consecutive year, School District 196 received the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Association of School Business Officials International. This year's award recognizes excellence in the preparation and issuance of the dis- trict's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for fiscal year 2006. Approximately 400 school districts ationally apply for the award each year 'eased on the minimum criteria. Fewer han 5 percent of Minnesota school dis- ricts received the award this year. ew associate principal Kim Skelton was recently named ssociate Principal at Heritage Middle chool. Skelton replaces Joni Hagebock ho became principal of Friendly Hills iddle School Aug. 16. Skelton comes to eritage Middle School from Roseville Area • staff development certificate from the University of Minnesota. Teacher receives grant Henry Sibley French teacher Jason Laux was selected from a national appli- cant pool to attend one of the 21 summer study opportunities supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities. Laux was one of 29 French teachers from throughout the United States who studied in Lyon, France. The endowment is a fed- eral agency that each summer supports seminars and institutes at colleges and universities in the United States and abroad so that teachers can study with experts in humanities disciplines. Students featured Marching band students from Henry Sibley High School were featured in the fall edition of Disney OnStage Magazine as part of a late June trip to the Maeir �^711 P IvL�IC, 4141 Zip) Rules of the school Photo by Ric andi Hansen, food service associate at Northview Ele chool, goes over rules of the lunchroom for kindergart atie Stromswold's class on their first day of school. nt 8 lic. =1299 .JclWtyl'� 8 lic. = $359 Owner Loyalty-S1,000 .11 Caravan Power Seat, Power Wnd/LocksoMinors. Oua1 N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Yyneels. motion Control. Roof Rack .-J lu1{La plus 1 sl payment 811t. i789 1st payment & tic. _ $335 Owner Loyalty -$1,000 = MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,500 Discount-$.$.606 �� $21,499 120499 -,,--r— `—r-r7 MSRP $24.420 Rebate -$2,000 Discount -$2 525 os '2,000 down, plus 1' '0 dam, plus 1''p 1ila *No 4x Air, Auto, CO Player, Power (Windows, Lodes M' Ann -Lock Brakes, Trailer Tow 89901 2.11.44 i $2.000 down, plus 1st payment a tic. _ $289 $0 down, plus 1s1 payment & tic. = 3379 Auto, Air, Side Curtain Airbags Power (Windows, I riles. Minas). AM/FM CD MP3 Radio. Keyless, Secu Ai. 1t1 1.7 `2.000 dorm, plus 1" payment & he. ='179 'Dawn, plus 1" payment 8, tic. ='235 a ire• LJEPA 30 H Charter/from 1A council's time and our citizens' time once again over an issue many of us thought the voters had overwhelmingly decided two years ago, when 80 per- cent of our community voted against this ill-advised plan," he said. "I find it absolutely absurd that we would even go down this path." The Eagan Charter Com- mission, a judge -appointed group of citizens that formed in 2001 to explore the idea of turning Eagan from a statuto- ry city into a charter city, sub- mitted the proposed charter to the city on Aug. 21. Approval of the charter would change Eagan's form of government. Changes would include a city manager posi- well-A< 9/gje., daily decisions than the cur- rent city administrator posi- tion, the creation of an open space preservation fund, and required planning for future needs during budgeting. The city would also be prohibited from selling park land without voter approval. The Charter Commission has acknowledged that the city is already doing most of those things, but has said that the charter would ensure it continues to. Voters defeated a proposed charter in 2004 that would have divided the city into four wards and added two council members and included a pro- vision that would allow five citizens to challenge council action by petitioning for a referendum. law requires that the city put the charter question on the ballot within 90 days of its receipt. Because there was no city election scheduled this year, the city will have to hold a spe- cial election. Council members ulti- mately agreed the best chance of maximizing voter turnout would be to hold it on same day as school district elections. City Administrator Tom Hedges said that voter turnout in Eagan during general elec- tions in even years is between 60 and 80 percent, while turn- out during odd -year school district elections is between 7 and 21 percent. The special election will cost the city $30,000, in ad- dition to $10,000 for a mail- ing that will be sent to resi- dents telling them where to vote. School district election precincts differ from city pre- cincts, and council members said they were concerned that voters would be confused about where to go. While the city and the City Council as a body are prohib- ited from taking an official position on the charter, coun- cil members as individuals are entitled to express their own opinions, Mayor Mike Magu- ire said. Council members made it very clear that they wanted to put as much distance as pos- sible between the city and the charter, and they requested that a disclaimer be attached to copies of the charter given to residents. "It is not the city of Eagan or this City Council that has suggested or asked for this spe- THISWEEK September 8, 2007 SA cial election, nor has the city of Eagan or this City Council developed the proposed char- ter that will be on the ballot," Maguire said. "I wish that as a council we didn't have to take a vote to put it on the ballot. We have no choice." A public forum on the charter is scheduled at Eagan City Hall at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24. It will also be televised on Burnsville/Eagan Community Television. Copies of the proposed charter are available at City Hall, and will be available at the city's Web site, www.cityofea- gan.com, after Sept. 12. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 6A September 8, 2007 THISWEEK Educatiirn Integration plan progressing with new magnet schools District 196's new magnet schools open their doors Sept. 4 by JefAchen THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS When the doors opened at three Rosemount -Apple Val- ley -Eagan elementary schools this week, their students were entering new territory. Cedar Park, Diamond Path and Glacier Hills elementary schools officially opened as magnet schools this year as part of the district's integra- tion plan. The approximate counts of new students at Glacier Hills, Costs State integration funding covers most of the cost of the new magnet school program. "The cost of starting up the three magnet schools for the 2006-07 school year was about $350,000," deKam Palmieri said. "That amount included professional devel- opment for magnet school staff, printing and marketing, and magnet instructional sup- plies." The district opted to convert three elementary schools into magnet schools as a way to of- fer students more educational opportunities as well as open- ing racially identifiable schools to an influx of students from across the school district. In 2006, a measure of Dis- trict 196 schools showed that only one elementary school was racially isolated, Cedar Park. Scott Thomas, integration and equity coordinator for Dis- Balance District officials are con- fident that creating magnet schools for integration purposes will be successful, deKam Palm- ieri said, however it doesn't hap- pen overnight. "It takes a certain number of years," she said. "The numbers aren't in yet." By Oct. 1 of this year, the district will have some prelimi- nary indication. That's when www.thisweek-online.com roposed charter will be on Nov. 6 ballots Council expresses frustration over special election, questions Charter Commission's timing by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Eagan City Council on uesday voted to put the ques- ion of a proposed charter on he Nov. 6 ballots to coincide ith local school district elec- ions. • But council members ex- ressed frustration at having o hold a special election at 11, and questioned the Char- er Commission's timing in submitting the charter now. "1 find it troubling that this was submitted with the short- est possible amount of notice, not only to this council, but to the voting public," Council Member Paul Bakken said. "It has really reduced the time down to a minimum in which people can educate themselves on this issue and make an in- formed decision at the polls." hhiBrief Approval of the proposed charter by voters during the Nov. 6 election would change Eagan's form of government. Instead of deriving its power from state statutes as it cur- rently does, the city would derive its power from a home - rule charter, which is essentially a city constitution. The charter was not developed by the city, but by a judge - appointed group of 10 (formerly 13) citizens called the Ea- gan Charter Commission, which formed in 2001 to explore the idea of turning Eagan from a statutory city into a char- ter city. The Charter Commission also proposed a charter that was defeated by voters in 2004. By state law, the city must put the charter question on the ballot within 90 days of its receipt of the charter. A public forum on the proposed charter is scheduled at Eagan City Hall at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24. It will also be tele- vised on Burnsville/Eagan Community Television. Mayor Mike Maguire sug- gested there must be some rea- son for the Charter Commis- sion to choose a time in which there would be less voter turn- out. It has been reported, he said, that the commission is feeling pressured by legislation pending at the Capitol that could force charter commis- sions to disband if their pro- posed charters are defeated. "Instead of reaffirming the value of citizen participation in a decision like this, they are working against it," he said. "And why? Because they want to sustain themselves into the future." Phone calls to the Char- ter Commission were not re- turned. Some citizens, including former Mayor Pat Geagan, spoke out against the pro- posed charter at the meeting. Geagan said that a small group of people dictating gov- ernment policy to the majority "should make us all very an- gry:, "I'm sorry to take up the See Charter, 5A 2A September 8, 2007 THISWEEK 07 Ram 1500 M SPEC BIG HORN VALUE Auto. Al, CO Player, Power OMndows, Locks, Mirrors). Fog lamps, Rear Slider Overhead Console. Sirius Radio k982 8 ALL THE TOYS! • Power Dnver & Pass • Leather Seats Seat • Heated Seats • 3-Zone Temp Control • Power Liftgate • In -Dash 6-Disc • Rear Seat Video CD/DVDAv1P3 • Wireless Headphones • Infinity Speakers 35W South and Cliff Road MSRP $32,010 Rebate -$4,500 Discount -$3111 Lone Oak Days celebration is at Holz Farm Sept. 29-30 Friends of the Farm and 1` Eagan Parks and Recreation 1 will sponsor Holz Farm Lone • Oak Days from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, and Sunday, Sept. 30 at Holz Farm, • 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan. Activities will include • 1940s-era Ford tractor vir- tual drive, barnyard animals, rope making, butter churn- -, ing, field plowing and discing, - corn grinding, vintage equip- ment display, bread baking, egg picking/chicken display, animal education, pedal trac- t tors, potato digging (Saturday W only), Jenny (Eagan's first fire truck) and blacksmith demon- strations. A Raptor Center presenta- tion will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday. Admittance into the event is free, as are many of the events. Some activities and all food items will be available for purchase. For more information, call Eagan Parks and Recreation at (651) 675-5500 or visit www. cityofeagan.com. City Council chooses development over safety more live on surrounding side streets. There are no sidewalks or stop signs. I ask this for my entire community to ponder: who will be responsible when my or my neighbor's child gets on their own street? Don't buy into the market- ing hype that you need to live in a 5,000-square-foot house or need a hot tub. A simpler, less extravagant lifestyle frees you from the expense and maintenance headaches of liv- ing large. Consider the impact of every purchase you make on the future of your children and grandchildren. SUSAN GUNDERSEN Eagan Don't confuse arts center, school taxes To the editor: John ..r-eenr- Council approves 1 r p Qi/E/} preliminary budget, levy Three percent property -tax hike anticipated by Erin Johnson The council also approved THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS a preliminary general fund The City Council at its budget of $26.6 million, which Sept. 4 meeting approved Ea- is an increase of 4.9 percent gan's preliminary 2008 budget over last year's budget. and property tax levy. The bulk of the general While thefinal budget and fund budget is allocated to - levy won't be adopted until ward public safety, with the Dec. 18, the council approved Police and Fire departments a preliminary levy increase of getting $11.9 million. General about $1.1 million over last government makes up $6.2 year for a total levy of $24.6 million of the general , fund million. See Budget, 5A MSRP S34,405 Rebate •$6,000 Discount /�/-$4.406 '2.000 down. plus 1. payment 8 Gc a 779 S ; ro down. plus P paymentla - ��- V /�/ 07 Dodge Nitro so' Auto. Air, CD Player/MP3, Power Iwind, ocks,mimrsl, Overhead Console & morel a wore '2,000 down. plus I.' payment & li '0 down, plus 1' payment & tic. mu= Jr 12,000 down, plus 1" payme SO down, plus 1" payment MSRP $26.230 111111.1111. Rebate-51,000 CFC Bonus Discount-$500 Discount -$1731 c. _'159 339 07 Cisoilpir Equillitidm 3 5L Highou put, Auto, Air, All Speed Trac Cor�- wmd, locks), CD Player & More OMB darn. Budgetlfrom 1A budget, parks and recreation make up $4.3 million, and public works makes up $3.4 million. The budget increase is due to several factors, including wage and benefit increases for existing city employees, infla- tionary increases, and costs to .r; r wg g /♦Jr7 hold the 2008 general election, Director of Administrative Services Gene VanOverbeke said. The city anticipates a prop- erty -tax increase of 3 percent on the average -market -value home in Eagan, which in 2008 will be $281,208. In 2007, the owner of a $278,920 home, which was the average in Eagan, paid about $709 for the city portion of property taxes. In 2008, the owner of a $281,208 home will likely pay about $730, VanOverbeke said. While it's a small increase, it is more than the average Ea- gan homeowner has seen in the past couple of years, dur- ing which property taxes have mostly remained flat or even decreased slightly. The property -tax increase includes more money for ma- jor road and infrastructure projects, VanOverbeke said. "It allocates additional tax money for some transporta- tion needs in the community," he said. The council set the truth - in -taxation hearing date for Monday, Dec. 3, with a con- tinuation date, if necessary, of Monday, Dec. 10. The final budget and tax levy are expected to be adopt- ed at the Dec. 18 City Council meeting. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Cedar Park and Diamond Path were 85, 80 and 48, re- spectively. District 196 Magnet School Coordinator Michelle deKam Palmieri said a majority of those students were already at- tending other district schools last year. The district received over 300 applications by the begin- ning of February 2007 and 'JURA, L11L. u1JL116:L 1LdU 1UIUs remaining from a 2004 fa- cilities bond, it decided to construct a 4,050-square- foot, $1.69 million Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) addition on Cedar Park Elementary. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year, according to deKam Palmieri. In addition to the annual Photo h,• Jeff Achen Cedar Park Elementary teachers Cathy Kinden and Ken Nygren are helping students learn to graphically represent scientific data using a large lever and weight system. 1 7U, Jam mat was prunarny due to shifts in available hous- ing for low income families. The core curriculum remains the same at each of the magnet schools, however, each now has a new focus on a specific theme. Cedar Park has become a STEM magnet where technol- ogy is a strong tool to help stu- dents learn. In addition to the core cur- riculum, students will work on .....l.. fk..a ..11..... and official enrollment is re- ported. Officials will be able to see the racial breakdown and determine if any changes are needed. "We didn't use race on our application, nor did we use it in our lottery," deKam Palmieri said. That, and the fact that 96 percent of families already at- tending the three schools opted to stay put, means the chanee Chase/from 1A wttsk 9/t/o7 The suspect began losing con- trol of his vehicle just north of Yankee Doodle Road, swerv- ing into a ditch and hitting a pole. When he drove back onto the road, the suspect side- swiped an Eagan squad car, causing significant damage. He also drove directly toward another squad car, forcing the officer to back it into a guard rail to avoid being hit. The suspect then drove into a heavily wooded area off Highway 13 and abandoned his vehicle. He was located in the woods with the help of the South St. Paul Police K-9 unit and the State Patrol and was arrested. Several valuable items were located inside the suspect's truck, including a 42-inch plas- ma TV, laptops, power tools, a credit card, an HD DVD player, money, a camera and a radar -detection unit. The truck was also determined to have been stolen out of West St. Paul. Damage to the squad car that was sideswiped is estimat- ed at $3,500. The squad car that backed into the guard rail received only minor damage to the bumper that totals less than $1,000, police said. Pierce is currently being held at the Dakota County jail. If convicted he faces up to 20 years and/or a fine of up to $35,000 for each count of first -degree burglary and up to three years and/or a fine of up to $5,000 for fleeing a police officer. Eagan police said they are still attempting to identify the second suspect through investigations. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. until Dec. 31, 2007, although vacancies are few The district's wait list will no longer be in effect after Dec. 31, deKam Palmieri said. A new lottery will begin for new student enrollment next year. cost of teacher training, ma- terials and curriculum, there will be a $450,000 transpor- tation cost. The district's integration plan counts on transportation funding to bus students from across the dis- trict to the magnet schools. This too will come out of in - END tegration funding. Background In 2004, Cedar Park and Gla- cier Hills were labeled "racially identifiable" by the Minnesota Department of Education, hav- ing a significantly higher num- ber of students of color. SUMMER MriNywi„ ~'"r"`'� ..LInrH ..ruIn prvlceta mat attaw them to design and build, put- ting into practice their math, science, reading, and communi- cation skills. The school will partner with the Science Museum of Min- nesota, the University of Min- nesota, the Dakota County En- vironmental Department, and other agencies on a variety of educational projects. in racial balance may be very small. It may be a number of years before the district witness- es a true shift. The real change is expected as new students come into the school and current stu- dents move on. The state will continue to measure enrollment by race an- nually, but Thomas said they're not holding to any strict or spe- cific benchmarks. Diamond Path has become Diffley Marketplace/from 1A "I feel very betrayed. We've fought this for over two years," resident Kathy Schoeberl said. "We trusted the council to make good, safe decisions for our neighborhood, and I re- ally feel like you failed us." Since the project was pro- posed in 2005, residents of Daniel Drive have been op- posed to an access point on their street, fearing an increase in traffic would make their street less safe for, neighbor- hood children. "I think you owe it to my two girls to explain why you needed to compromise when it comes to their safety," resident Janet Westenberg said. Diffley Marketplace, an 11- acre development proposed on • Diffley Road and Lexington \ Avenue, is planned to include cb a 43,000-square-foot Radem- • acher's grocery store and two tr" multitenant retail buildings. The council sided with • residents when it initially ap- proved the project without ac- cess to Daniel Drive. When the county refused to give the development full ac- cess on Diffley Road without access on Daniel, the city tried to compromise by allowing an entrance -only access on Dan- iel Drive and three-quarters access on Diffley. The county rejected that plan, as well. The stalemate between the city and county halted the de- velopment, and Diffley Ven- tures LLC sued the city last year to get its original plan approved with full access on Daniel Drive. A district court judge threw out the lawsuit last November, and the developer appealed. Some residents said they felt betrayedand blind -sided by the city's settlement with the developer, which was reached in a closed -door ses- sion during the City Council's Aug. 21 meeting. Several said they read about the settlement in the paper. "No one came to the meet- ing because we were told we wouldn't be able to comment," Westenberg said. "We had no idea there would be action taken that night." Resident Kate Boyle said the whole thing left a sour taste in her mouth. "I felt like it's been a slap in the face," she said. "I'm ques- tioning why you settled this issue when the lawsuit has no grounds." The council acknowledged that notification could have been handled better, but coun- cil members were advised by the city attorney to remain tight-lipped because the settle- ment has not yet officially oc- curred. "Clearly there are some who disagree with the decision to settle. I understand and ap- preciate that," Maguire said. "The city is limited in what it can and can't say. It's not ad- visable from the city attorney's perspective for us to comment on that thought process be- cause it is still a matter in liti- gation." Maguire pointed out that the settlement is essentially the same as the vote the coun- cil took two years ago when it approved the project with one- way access on Daniel Drive. But residents continue to fear that approval of an en- trance -only access point is a slippery slope to eventual two-way access, Westenberg said. "If this compromise goes through, we know that this will not be the end of this. This developer will soon be back at it to convince the city to give him a two-way (access)," she said. Daniel Drive resident Leo Rickertsen echoed that senti- ment. "Today's one-way is tomor- row's two-way, and I believe if we don't do something, it will be a two-way," he said. The city's settlement is now dependent upon the county approving the development with the one-way access on. Daniel Drive. If the county denies the project, the lawsuit will continue through the ap- peals proceks. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. ffi- thing suspicious and the call- r. er has not been identified. as Police say this incident is a similar to other bomb threats as- to banks across the nation. LZ.Lmcris like this in the Twin Cities area. Jeff Achen can be reached at ay.thisweek@ecm-inc.com. ate, pt- les nto nd re- un er es, us to en r- ects are working alongside county staff building a "back yard" in the county's fair building. "Everything this year is go- ing to be very activity based," County Public Information Director Gail Plewacki said. "We're going to have dragon- fly dress -up, wacky bug exami- nations, how to make nontox- ic household cleaners for the home and so on," Plewacki said. Still another initiative in the county involves numerous local governments. Commissioner Nancy Schouweiler said the High ,case ELEVISION Performance Partnership Pro- gram, which integrates govern- ment projects at various levels, is proposing a new project: Green Living. Proposed by Konat, Schou- weiler, Lakeville Mayor Holly Dahl and Rosemount City Administrator Jamie Verbrug- ge, the initiative incorporates sustainability principles. A subcommittee will be formed to review how govern- ments can "green" their build- ings, create "green infrastruc- ture" and implement a process to "green" planned develop- ments in cities. Through the collaboration, a residential initiative will also be undertaken that will focus on things such as tree planting and increased recycling. "We're planning on having this be a very broad and thor- ough program that we're going to implement," Schouweiler said. Laura Adelmann is at dceditor@frontiernet.net. i i OIL, LUBE� & FILTER $ 1495 INCLUDES FREE MAINTENANCE ' INSPECTION! ' Includes up to 5 quarts premium brand oil and new oil filter, free chassis tube; check all fluid levels. Most cars and light trucks. Environmental fee extra. Diesels extra. Synthetic oi', itrnt Expires 10/31/07. With coupon Not valid with other offers. COMPLETE CAR CARE I AAA Auto I Service Burnsville Goodyear 952-882-0455 1 12000 Co. Rd 11 at Hwy.13 r it, ill (1; 6DODATAR Neighbors upset over Diffley p l rJ.:7 Marketplace settlement City's compromise includes one-way access to retail development from residential street by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Neighbors of a proposed grocery store development in Eagan, who for two years have protested the use of their street as an access point, said they are angry over the city's recent settlement agreement with the developer. The City Council on Aug. 21 agreed to settle a lawsuit brought by Diffley Ventures LLC by allowing one-way access to the proposed Diff- ley Marketplace from Daniel Drive, a residential street. Several residents of Dan- iel Drive expressed their dis- appointment at the council's Sept. 4 meeting. See Diffley Marketplace, 21A •own. p us payment .5 lic. s '279 '0 down, plus 1. payment & Im '335 ::CL,N77.74 `4/tri . S/l10.3 Storm/from 1 A Inver Grove Heights and Eden Prairie did not. After Tuesday's storm, the city of Burnsville authorized a special allocation of $250,000 to pick up debris on private property because of the extent of the damage — including 75 streets blocked by debris — but that's not the norm. Eagan's long-standing poli- cy has been to pick up storm debris that has fallen on city property, roads, and city rights of way, but homeowners have the responsibility of cleaning up their own property. An ex- ception was made during the July 2000 "superstorm" for which the city received federal aid. Ganapathy's tree was re- moved by the city because it had fallen in the street and was blocking traffic, causing a public safety hazard. "Half of it was on the road so people couldn't move through it, so the city came and removed it," she said. Maguire said he sympathiz- es with people who have lost trees, and the city does, too. "We understand losing trees is a stressful thing, whether on your lot or in a city park," he said. But he deTends the city's policy of not paying to main- tain the private property of its citizens. Eagan is a low -tax city with high -quality services that re- lies on a partnership with its residents to remain that way, he said. Limiting services by the local government allows Eagan to keep taxes lower than in cities like St. Paul and Bloomington. "We understand the frus- tration of homeowners that the city won't come by and pick up private debris, but we hope they understand why," he said. "The community recov- ers from these kinds of storms much more quickly if the city can focus on its responsibility and homeowners can focus on theirs." Property owners have 30 days to remove tree limbs or other storm debris from their property. Residents who need assis- tance paying for debris remov- al can call the United Way by dialing 211, or (651) 291-0211 from cell phones. The Com- munity Action Council may be able to offer assistance and can be reached at (952) 985-5300, and the Dakota County CDA may have home improvement loan programs available and can be contacted at (651) 675- 4400. The city also encourages residents to partner with their neighbors to bring in one con- tractor at a potentially lower rate. For more information, visit www.cityofeagan.com. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. WE BUY USED GEAR ALL DAY, EVERY DAY! Check out our 2 Metro Locations: Burnsville • 14025 Grand Ave. S. (952) 435-3003 (35W & Cty. 42, NE frontage road in McAndrews Center) Roseville • 1722 N. Lexington Ave. (651)487-5600 (Lexington & Larpenreur. NE corner in Lexington Plaza) BUY • SELL • TRADE Bring in this ad for 10% OFF Your Next Purchase. Offer expires 9)30107 (VIM LESSONS! VOTED #1 SWIM SCHOOL • 90-92° Water Education Classic rock band Kansas to headline Septemberfest Music Festival Classic rock band Kansas will headline Faithful Shep- herd Catholic School's fourth annual Septemberfest, a two - night music festival in Eagan, on Saturday, Sept. 22. Known for classic rock hits such as "Carry On, Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind," Kansas is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its classic al- bum "Point of Know Return," which reached No. 4 on the Billboard album chart. Septemberfest's Friday, Sept. 21, headline act is local favorite blues/rock/funk/soul band Root City, joined by the band's former lead guitarist and vocalist, Alex Rossi. Opening for Kansas on Sept. 22 are Heartbreaker, which has worked with many national acts such as Lover - in bringing Davy Jones to the 2005 event. "We're building our reputation as a fun, high -qual- ity, south -of -the -river music festival featuring great national acts and regional favorites in an intimate venue. September- fest is becoming a `can't miss' event on the third weekend of September that draws a loyal base of area music fans." Septemberfest takes place on the grounds of Faithful Shepherd Catholic School, located in Eagan at 3355 Co- lumbia Drive (just east of the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Lexington Avenue). Event hours are 6 p.m. to mid- night both nights. The ticket , gate opens at 5:30 p.m. each night. The event goes on, rain or shine, under a 128 000-s• uar Hole in one? ' ' s r11.1r it .. • . 1* 4:11, .4' .6.. arIF; Ilk!" . 61 -• - . "tg. 4r.. - - 111PI" l'.— 7, milik " ''' ' A * e • ; ' +I ,. , 4. 'i . ' 4.. *. -..3 , • 'PP . , lir1ji -; .. , Ik 4 s•P,„,,, .0. 7; - -.1 t...-----..,.- ,..v •., ..,,.,•... • gel ...-1.- ..i.,... ,It ....11r...-.... Phe,ro by Rick Ormiorf High School student Clay Smith emjoys the return of the sun as he attempts the first "hole" during a game of disc golf at Northview Park in Eagan. jc c ?/ MSRP $26,105 Rebate-$1.000 piscount -$2.106 '2,000 down, plus 1 ° payment 8110. = 749 0 down, plus 1 payment 8lic. Power Sunroof & Boston Acoustic Sound, A/C Auto, DORC-24 Vale, Power (Vrrlows, Loder, Mirrors), CO Player, Parer Seat, A1N ock-ESP '2.000 down, plus 1' payment 81ic. = 778 C down, plus 1" payment & tic. = '335 1srr.edem,R mp6.ee.k.4 rosww liparegiret 16•1• •0 •Mevonre 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY titu 6dr. L1, , Touring, 318L,$ 41 6.925 6-cyl, 35,286 mi. f3160 Q y 06 DODGE RAM1500 4 4JL, 8Cab, 4dr, 3� Quad Cab, AIT 13135 ,925 Sunscreen / $2,em ww 80 8111.8.111 e oo1R &weti go 6 mine d limes* ml 04 CHEVY MALIBU Sedan, LS, $1 1 6-cyl, 35.826 mi.. 921 13128 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNT 4dr, LX, 3.3L V6, i� 23,940 Mi, NT 13127 15. • 92 05 VOLKSWAGEN JETTt 4dr„ Manual. 2.5L 5- cy 13,940 mi. e60a38 $� 6ra 1-888-786-8622 Because the news never stops www.thisweek-online.com • Another storm, more damage Winds of up to 70 miles per hour downed trees, power lines by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Just as many residents were clearing out the last of the fall- en trees and branches from the Aug. 11 storm, another pow- erful storm moved through the city early Tuesday morn- ing and caused more damage. Sudha Ganapathy, who lives on Safari Pass in southwestern Eagan, woke up to find an ash tree, which stood at more than 40 feet, uprooted in her front yard. "We were really surprised. When I went to get the pa- per this morning, I saw it was down," she said. "I didn't hear the tree fall." Although it didn't cause as much damage as the Aug. 11 storm, Tuesday's storm brought heavy rain and winds up to 70 miles per hour that tore through the city begin- ning around 2:30 a.m. The Eagan Police Depart- ment had to call in extra dis- patchers to handle the large volume of calls from residents, Photo by Esin Johnson Tuesday's storm, which included winds of up to 70 miles per hour, uprooted this large tree on Nicols Road. who reported everything from trees in the road to power out- ages at multiple intersections. Security alarms at several businesses were triggered by the strong winds, and firefight- ers had to extinguish a small fire that began when a tree fell on a power line. Like Ganapathy, Mayor Mike Maguire was one of many residents who lost trees in the storm. A 30-foot pine tree fell in his yard, blocking his driveway. "I'm sure there are people who lost trees in the Aug. 11 storm who would be pleased to see a tree down at the may- or's house," he said. "One of my neighbors thought it was pretty funny that I couldn't get out of my garage." The timing wasn't great — Maguire and his wife were set to close on the sale of their house two days after the storm. "We were in the middle of packing," he said. The house they are moving into also lost a tree during the storm, he said. Maguire said his first in- stinct when his tree fell was not to call the city but to go about getting the tree removed himself. Some residents were up- set after the Aug. 11 storm that the city wouldn't remove downed trees and debris on private property. Cities such as St. Paul and Bloomington removed storm debris from private property after the Aug. 11 storm, while cities such as Minneapolis, See Storm, 5A 2A September 1, 2007 THISWEEK 44120130G6 i BVaNSVILLE oF r- 07 RIR eraiik4 BIG HORN VALUE IEELS Auto, Air, CD Player. Power (Windows. Locks. Mirrors), Fog Lamps. Rear Slider wprhead Console. Sinus Radio 098218 MSRP $34,405 Rebate -$6,000 Discount /-$5 110 '2.000 down. plus 1. payment &lie. = 239 $23a � hh.'0 clown. plus r payment &lic.=.3/9 _ OPEN LABOR DAY ummer Gh's CLEARANCE EXTENDED THRU TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH! Hurry— the deals won't last fore but the WARRAN 9-5 o' FOR 6 Grand Durang RID For Appointment South .,:COE Road SPECIAL OF THE MONTH 07 Grand Carte SXT special Eels. ALL THE TOYS! •Leather Seats 'Heated Seats 'Power Liftgate •Rear Seat Video ' Wireless Headphones ' Infinity Speakers 'Power Driver & Pass. Seat •3-Zone Temp Control •In -Dash 6-Disc CD/DVD/MP3 '2,000 down, plus 1" payment & tic.='235 SO down, plus 1' payment & lic. = $309 Piesinwo MINIS "L1 F,E jaIME MSRP $32,010 Rebate -$4,000 Discount-$4.111 $23,899 224 Owner Loyalty-$1,000 �'899 07 Da '2.000 down. plus I.' pa ro down. plus 1' pa 07 Dodge Nitro SLT imparagont 07 Grandame= 07 Durango 04 n S v✓ c (`- 1$ I A growing number of south -metro cities are webcasting meetings • Residents with Internet access can watch city council and other public meetings from home or away at any time. By SARAH LEMAGIE slemagie@startribune.com If you live in Shakopee or — for that matter — pretty much any of the larger south -metro cities, your local council meetings are now go- ing global. As recently as two years ago, Bloomington and Minneapolis were among a very small handful of Min- nesota cities to webcast city council and other public meetings. Now the practice has caught fire. Shakopee, which began stream- ing videos of council meetings on its website last month, is only the latest in a string of communities to add the feature since Burnsville and Eagan led the south -of -the -river we- bcasting charge in January 2006. Most cities have broadcast public meetings on cable for years, but web - casting gives cities one more way to reach a growing population of citi- zens with high-speed Internet con- nections and little time to spare. Webcasts continues: Spread of fast net access has fueled trend. S17 P. proposals tor tlie AAA land this summer. The council picked Anderson over two others, including a group that envisioned a 150-room hotel and a Burnsville compa- ny that proposed an office complex. "It's been 10 years going down this road, and it's been a difficult road," said Mayor Elizabeth Kautz. Anderson aims to have a purchase agreement for the land by mid -Novem- ber, with shovels in the ground by next May or June, said company president Greg Anderson. Dakota County Technical College could be one tenant of the office com- plex, he said. Sarah Lemagie • 612-673-7557 • •H •.. • . 11 e eastern Minnesota. Despite mg con• io LETTERS Why did Eagan settle a suit it won and endanger us? I am writing in response to the Aug 21 Eagan City Coun- cil decision to settle the law- suit with Diffley Ventures over the Diffley Marketplace devel- HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? We welcome letters to the editor and guest columns. If possible, please send e-mail to stsletters@ startribune.com. Our conven- tional mail address is Star Tribune South, 425 Portland Av., Minneapolis, MN 55488. Our fax number is 612-673-7295.We ask that letters and columns be submitted exclusively to the de the writer's AP cuts show district's priorities After reading the Lakeville high school principals' dark forecast for the coming year I was disappointed that they did not have any positive things to say to the returning stu- dents (www.startribune.com/ a3244). It is clear that their pri- mary concern is raising more money for the district. How- ever, I think the political tac- that summer came to a crash- ing halt when the Minnesota State Fair closed its gates and over 4,000 Minnesota schools opened their doors. It could be a sweltering 90 degrees with a suffocating 75 degree dew point every day from now until Sept. 23, and you still won't be able to con- vince anyone within earshot that summer is still with us. Kids, especially, are unim- pressed by the whole days -are - still -longer -than -nights thing. To them the three-month fur- lough is over, and it's back to the daily grind. ting antsy about Aug. 1, and by the time Labor Day rolls around my wife is more ea- ger to get me out of the house and back to school than she is our kids. So now I get to enjoy the fair in ways I never dreamed possible as a kid. I'm excited about getting back to teach- ing, I'm excited that my own kids are going back to school, because we were well beyond the "I'm bored" stage of sum- mer, and I'm excited that I no longer care what I look like as I wander from food booth to food booth at the fair, stuff- ila:� wt_r:`a'. Late -night runway use brings more noise concerns Increased use of new runway at night prompts mayor to request a change by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS For the second time this summer, increased use of the Minneapolis -St. Paul Interna- tional Airport's new runway — and residents complaints that have resulted — have prompted Mayor Mike Magu- ire to send a letter questioning the runway's use. This time, the letter focuses on an increase in nighttime flights over residential areas of Eagan. Maguire sent a letter to the airport's Noise Oversight Committee asking it to exam- ine the feasibility of shifting more nighttime traffic from the new runway, called Run- way 17/35, to other runways when demand allows. Records show that in July, Runway 17/35, which opened in 2005 and flies planes pre- dominantly over Eagan's resi- dential areas, was used for 20.2 percent of nighttime de- partures. In July 2006, the runway was used for only 2.5 percent of nighttime departures. "A change from 2.5 percent to 20 percent is significant in See Noise, 5A IntiLock/Traction Control, Roof Rack MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,000 DEount -$3.610 Anti -Lock Brakes, Trailer Tow 499019 Locks. Minors Plus ts1 wvmem a ec. = f198 $20,995 uslst9srmentar =5272 SLOW down. plus tapay/nerd alie. =1 Owner Loyalty 519;995 so down, pustmpaynemaae.. a359 nY-$1,000 = MSRP $25,920 Rebate -$2,000 Dis cunt -$2.521 Auto.Air. Side Curtain Airbags. Power (Windows, Locks. Mirrors). AM/FM CO MP3 Radio. Keyless, Security Alarm 611067 '4000 down, On 1^ payment & lic. = '199 b down, pea 1^ payment & & . = '259 4dr, Wagon Touring. $ 7 925 FWD. 3.5L 6cyl, 4 dr.1a16s I 6 Cyl. Touring, $2O 92.5 3.5L 6 Cyl.lalls f. 17LtJ 4dr SLT, Noise/from 1A residential areas in Eagan," said Diane Miller, Eagan's al- ternate to the NOC. According to the runway use system at the airport, the parallel runways that fly over the Eagan/Mendota Heights corridor are supposed to be the preferred runways for nighttime flights. Those run- ways are concentrated over the commercial and industrial areas of northeast Eagan. "The city is asking the (Metropolitan Airports Com- mission) and the FAA to re- spect that runway -use system and send flights over the Ea- gan/Mendota Heights Corri- dor," Miller said. Eagan residents, as well as MAC staff, have noticed an increasing number of early - morning flights departing from the new runway head- ing eastbound, which places -rk, wcr". Ski/0 7 planes over central Eagan. The letter was prompted by a significant increase in com- plaints from residents about the noise, especially between 5 and 6 a.m. "Statistically, that's when people are most bothered by airport noise," Miller said. Eagan residents accounted for 41 percent of all airport noise complaints made to the MAC for July, with 2,425 complaints lodged. In the letter, Maguire ac- knowledged that residents who live near the Eagan/Mendota Heights corridor likely won't be pleased with the addition of more nighttime noise. He wrote, however, "It is a sound public policy decision to concentrate noise in the more compatible commercial and industrial area of the city as opposed to sending planes over densely populated resi- dential areas." In June, Maguire sent a let- ter to the MAC when overall flights using the new runway increased significantly. Runway 17/35 was used for 38 percent of all departures in May, the highest level of any single runway that month. Since March, the city con- tends, the number of flights using the 17/35 runway have increased, while flights over the Eagan/Mendota Heights corridor decreased. The Noise Oversight Com- mittee is expected to discuss the mayor's request to change nighttime runway use at its Sept. 19 meeting. "We're hoping they will certainly be willing to review it and forward the recommen- dation on to the MAC and the FAA," Miller said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 6 months - Adult • 4:1 Class Size • Skilled Instructors 5wim.com d, Apple Valley ce the Difference od NewsTh pee • wagon, die Money, Night Ranger, and Molly Hatchet. Root City's opening acts are pop/rock trio Catchpenny, a band that has earned glow- ing reviews for its latest re- lease "From Where You Are"; and Uncle Chunk, a popular regional band and mainstay of the Twin Cities' live music scene. "We are thrilled to bring Kansas to the Septemberfest and continue our tradition of attracting nationally recog- nized bands to the `biggest lit- tle block party in the 'burbs,"' said the Rev. Charlie Lachow- itzer, Faithful Shepherd board chair and St. John Neumann pastor who was instrumental oot concert pavilion that com- bines the benefits of an open- air music festival with shelter from cool fall weather and rain. Ticket prices are $15 for each night, $25 for both nights. Parking is free. Attendees younger than 21 must be ac- companied by a parent or guardian. Refreshments will be offered, including beer, soda and water, as well as food ca- tered by Jake's restaurant. To purchase Septemberfest tickets online or for more event infor- mation, visit www.september- fest.info or call (651) 389-4242. Tickets also will be sold at the event gate. Event proceeds ben- efit Faithful Shepherd. Honors/Awards/Scholarships Dawn Franklin -Erickson, of Eagan, has been named a University of Wisconsin -Eau Claire Diversity Scholar for son Berve, Daniel Cregan, Matthew Luker. University of Wisconsin - River Falls. dean's list, from Lake cleanup nets 440 pounds of garbage Volunteers helped remove debris from Thomas Lake last week by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A cleanup of Thomas Lake in Eagan last Saturday resulted in the removal of 440 pounds of garbage from the lake bot- tom and shoreline. In addition to the bevy of beverage containers, items re- moved from the lake included an orange toboggan, a "thin ice" sign and a hockey stick. Two bottles with written messages were also pulled from the lake. One, a plastic water bottle, contained the ✓✓-6R- •� y{�r message, "If you read this, I am in trouble. Please help me. Somebody is kidnapping me. Call the police." The other was a wine bot- tle, recorked, with a message that read, "Help! I'm a mes- sage stuck in a bottle. Free me! You have unlimited potential. Be great today ... Amen." The message was dated Nov. 20, 2006. Nearly 60 volunteers joined in the cleanup effort spear- headed by the Dakota County See Cleanup, 9A Y 06 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER 03 DODGE CARAVAN 06 HYUNDAI SONATA GLS 2dr 3.8 .D_odgeofBurnsv In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Tourism FROM PREVIOUS PAGE printer and a web designer, but to have one bring both together for us is excit- ing," she said. "Now, it will flow. It's exciting to use someone local. Three of our communities are linked to their chambers of commerce, and using chamber members is very important to all of us." One of the more important aspects of the rebranding effort is that the end result will give the VMS a clearer identity. "Before, people didn't know what [our organization] was," Britton said. "Now, people know we're talking tourism." Britton said that several other communities not currently involved in the co-op have expressed an interest in becom- ing involved. Cooperation between cities or CVBs isn't entirely uncommon, but one thing that set the VMS apart from a typical joint -operation is that the VMS is concrete - it doesn't go for a certain length of time and then end. The regional approach that the group is taking makes sense, Britton said. "No visitor knows the city lines here - they are looking for hotels and ameni- ties that are close to whatever it is they came for," she said. "They are looking for other things to do." The VMS produces one guide to be used in all six communities, and it is paid for through advertising. With no money coining out of the VMS budget to pay for the publication, the co-op is left with the ability to try marketing tactics that haven't been attempted before. In contrast to the past, much of the today's marketing involves the computer. "It used to be that [people] would see our ad and call," Britton said. "Now, no one calls anymore. It's all Internet - and your tracking gets confusing. You know how many hits are on the site, but you don't know if that person is coming to visit, or just looking." To counter that, the new web - site seeks to put more tracking mechanisms in place. Britton said that tracking the website would give the co-op a better pic- ture of who was looking for what. The new site should be running by the end of the year, and the interactive features should be active not long after that. There are also ambitious plans for the future. "At some point in time, [you might book] your reservation right off the website," Britton said. "Now, we have links to do so, which is a step in the right direction. We want to keep them spend- ing their money on our side of town. We're where all the fun stuff is." To request a copy of the Vacation Minneapolis South guide, go to www.minneapolissouth.com. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) SEVERSON, SHELDON, DOUGHERTY SL MOLENDA, P.A Congratulations to our 2007 Super Lawyers Pictured above: Our 2007 Super Lawyers Back row: Michael G. Dougherty (land use/zoning law), Larry S. Severson (corporate/business law), Robert B. Bauer (real estate law/litigation) and Loren M. Solfest (business law/rea/estate law) Front Row: Michael E. Molenda (family law), and Sharon K. Hills (family law) A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION ATTORNEYS AT LAW SUITE 600 7300 WEST 147TH STREET APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA 55124 (952) 432-3136 FAX (952) 432-3780 W W W.SEVERSONSHELUON.COM In the Community, With the Community, For the Community SCOTT THEISEN • SUN .WSPAPERS Dr. Julia Tomlinson (left) and veterinary assistant Jenny Newgard use an exercise ball to stretch out Miller's hip muscles. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) "Animals aren't people, but we owe it to them not to use them," she said. "If you sprained your ankle, took one aspirin a day and were expected to go for a walk every day of your life, that would- n't be comfortable. Anything we can do to minimize their pain is a good idea." Besides, she said pet rehab therapy may save money in the long run. "Why pay $300 a month on pain meds when you could spend money for a. short amount of time and not have to rely on pharmaceuticals? Why spend $600 on sur- gery, leave [your dog] in a crate for six weeks then wonder why he can't go for a long walk every Sunday like he used to?" Though the University of Minnesota has a similar facility, Tomlinson said her clinic is the only one of its type in the south metro area. Pet therapy centers are com- mon on the East and West coasts, but just recently began popping up in between. "Pet therapy really took off in the past six or seven years," she said. "We realized we were doing surgery on these animals, sending them home and essen- tially closing the door on them." Tomlinson, a board -certified veteri- nary surgeon with a doctorate in physi- ology and a master's degree in science, worked as an equine surgeon for the past decade before recently switching gears. Even though her clinic has been open less than a month, she said she made the right decision. "It's a lot of fun," she said, glancing at Miller lying calmly at her feet. "I'm having the time of my life." HOPKINS FARMERS' MAIKET ner Saturdays through October 26`h 7:30 to Noon s� 41 Producer Vendor Market - Savor the hometown Enjoy Special Grilled Meats, Onions & Peppers with Chef "John"! TO Ydll vor Come experience the savory aroma of these delectable treats along with other fresh MN produce, fresh fruits and vegetables, county fresh meats, and fresh flow- ers, along with a variety of homemade goods including sweet bakery items, pickles, eggs, herbs, soaps, salsas, kettle corn, raw honey, and unique hive products. On 9'h Ave. in DT Hopkins (1/2 block south of Mainstreet Clock Tower) • 651-442-4570 www.mfma.org FREE Parking 1►h:•; tt • • M K 16A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current - Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Vacation Minneapolis South marketing area to visitors Co-op seeks to bring business south of river JOSEPH PALMERSHEIM • SUN NEWSPAPERS Vacation Minneapolis South (VMS), a co-op made up of six communities south of the river, recently went through a branding process to more effectively market the area to potential visitors. Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) from Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Lakeville and Shakopee have been working togeth- er for the past six years to combine the resources of all six of the CVBs involved. Now, a new website design and guide publication will attempt to create a clearer picture of what options are available for someone who visits any of the cities. "We're pooling our resources togeth- er, so our advertising dollars go six times as far," said Vacation co-chair Jeanne Marie Britton. "Now, each com- munity pays into the co-op on an annual basis, and we put together a budget and a marketing plan. We know up front what our advertising plan is for the year. Before, it was pick and choose for what would come up." Britton co-chairs the co-op with Brent Cory, who works with the Eagan Chamber and Visitors Bureau. The co- op has its roots in the spirit of previous limited cooperation between some of the cities. Before the co-op, communities would come together and jointly adver- tise in certain publications. Britton described these interactions as "basic decisions, one at a time, to pull together for an ad." Now, in addition to pulling together to produce a VMS visitor's guide, the co- op is working on developing an interac- tive website. Both the publication and website are being developed by Ensemble Creative and Marketing, a Lakeville Chamber of Commerce member company based in Lakeville. Britton said that it is the first time that the two products have been designed by the same organization. "It's easy to get a bid from both a TOURISM: TO NEXT PAGE In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com—Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007 — Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 15A Generations FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Thad and Jennifer Hellman, of Prior Lake, said the Ebenezer child-care pro- gram has taught their son, Trey, 4, that being different is no big deal. "We'll be out in public and see some- one in a wheelchair or something differ- ent than you might see on a daily basis, and he doesn't react to that," Thad said. "He just doesn't think much of it - that's a part of life. That diversity is a good thing." The Hellmans' younger son, Lewis, 1, also attends Ebenezer child care. Thad said he chose the program because of its extra perks, such as sign - ALL BIG TEN. ALL THE TIME. 14/L. a♦ 4.w..i.. lw AL.1,lis TrA/ I+AA4/» 11terra V `k." EA 41 utor 750 Vol. 32, No. 36 In the Co County plans expansion of Eagan senior housing site Planning Commission recommends addition at Oakwoods of Eagan GRANT BOELTER • `>UN NEWSPAPERS For 581 seniors, a new addition to an Eagan housing complex still won't answer their plea. But, it will help. The Eagan Planning Commission unanimously approved a plan for a 55- unit addition to the Oakwoods of Eagan senior housing complex at 2065 Park Center Drive. The plan would allow for the con- struction of another building similar to the 65-unit complex that already exists on the site. "We have a very strong demand at this location," said Kari Gill, who is overseeing the project for the Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA). The building has a waiting list of 354 people who would like to live there. Eagan's two other CDA-run complexes - O'Leary Manor and Lakeside Court - also have a total of 227 names on their waiting lists, which means more than half of the 1,147 names throughout the county on senior housing waiting lists are listed for the Eagan sites. Eagan currently has 190 units of CDA senior housing between the three com- plexes. Dakota County has 20 buildings with a total of 1,135 units. The expansion at Oakwoods is the first in a phase of 10 senior housing projects scheduled over the next 12 years. "One of the reasons for looking at doing our first building in Eagan is the very long waiting list we have here," said Gill. Mi The addition at Oakwood would be a in three-story complex with 30 two -bed- he room units and 25 one -bedroom units. w HOUSING: TO PAGE 10A ends oad nd Fling Festival stage arnival Wine & Romance aissance mmunity, With the Community, For the Community' Mortenson Construction is construc- tion manager on the "Russia's Grizzly Coast" exhibit, which will include griz- zly bears, sea otters, wild boar and Amur leopards. The $23.6 million proj- ect, planned near the central plaza, is the zoo's largest since the opening of Discovery Bay in 1997, according to the zoo's Web site. It is scheduled to open in June 2008. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) New for 2007? World Amateur Highland Heavy Games Minnesota Wine Weekend Chocolate Festival National Homebrew Competition Flower Festival Fiesta Renaissance Weekend 2007 Minnesota issance rIva! August 18 - September 30 Weekends & Labor Doty Fcativo! F'rk1ay, September 28 (800)966-8215 www. ren also n ce rest. corn tival Band errals is WS "Taste in Anion Food ood of Heaven 2007" En Free nment ite�►>ays�t Friday, Sept. 7th 5-7:30p.m. Chicken Dinner Prices are: Adults: SS Children Age 5-9:1/2 price 4 & Under. Free Take Out Service Saturday-, Sept. 8th 9:30 a.m. Parade Registration- School Entrance 10:00 a.m. Parade 10:30 a.m. Parade Awards 11:00 a.m. Magic Show 200 p.m. Chapperrals Band 6:30 p.m. Raffle Drawing 7 1r+ n m Macs in Chnrrh In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com-Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007-Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 9A Eagan sends request to MAC to reroute evening flights City requests diversion of flights from center of Eagan to MH border GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS The night hours have not been as peaceful as in the past for residents in the central part of Eagan, leading the city to send a request to the Metropolitan Airports Commission for some peace and quiet. The city has asked the MAC's Noise Oversight Committee to divert flights between 10:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. to runways other than the north -south Runway 17, which routes planes over the central part of the city. Instead, the city has asked MAC to consider routing more planes over the Eagan/Mendota Heights corridor, which uses Runway 12. "There will be residents impacted in the [Eagan/Mendota Heights] corri- dor," said City Administrator Tom Hedges. "However, the majority of that land is much more compatible than the residential areas in central Eagan." "When we talk about a corridor being more compatible, it's because there is much more commercial and industrial development in that corridor," said Mayor Mike Maguire. "It's not to sug- gest that airport noise in [homes along the corridor] is insignificant." In July 2006, Runway 17 was used for 2.5 percent of nighttime departures and 0.1 percent of nighttime arrivals. This July, the runway was used for 20.2 per- cent of departures and 4.6 percent of arrivals. "It's been a real dramatic increase in terms of nighttime departures and that's a concern," said Hedges. In July, MAC received 2,425 com- plaints from 166 Eagan residents, which represented 41 percent of all noise com- plaints. MAC Noise Manager Chad Leqve said night traffic really started to increase on Runway 17, which is less than two years old, during the first quarter of 2007. The city's request will come before MAC's Noise Oversight Committee Sept. 19. Leqve said Eagan's request would fit in with the airport's Runway Use System during the nighttime hours and there was a good possibility that the committee would vote to enter into discussions with the Federal Aviation Administration about making the change. "Ultimately the decision is made by the FAA," said Leqve. "That would be what I think the next step in the process would be, beginning those discussions." MPC SURPLUS STORE 'f - 494 Your Back To School Headquarters Is MPC Surplus Store Remarketed Merchandise at unbeatable prices • Computers • Monitors • TVs • Computer Racks • Electronics • Computer Parts 651-681-7366 Mention this ad for 10% OFF any purchase of '40 or more. 2805 West Service Rd. Eagan, MN 55121 Hours: Th-Fri llam - 5 pm store@mpc-e.com 10A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Housing FROM PAGE 1A To be eligible for the CDAs senior housing pro- gram, residents must be 55 or older and have an annual income of no more than $41,700 for a one -person household and no more than $47,700 for a two -person household. Rents are based on 30 percent of a house - hold's annual income for a one -bedroom unit and 32 percent of annual income for a two -bedroom unit. The Oakwoods proposed development was on the agenda for the Eagan City Council meeting Sept. 4, which was after this issue of the Sun -Current went to press. For more information on the CDA's senior housing program, visit www.dakotac- da.org or call 651-675-4440. (You are invited to com- ment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at suncur- rentsouth@acnpapers.com.) Eagan settles lawsuit with Diffley developer Dakota County will take another look at Diffley Marketplace traffic plan GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Eagan has settled the lawsuit, but the Diffley Marketplace development will hinge on the county's approval of a traffic plan for the site. The City Council voted Aug. 21 to settle an almost two -year -old lawsuit with Diffley Ventures regarding traffic access points for a development near the -inter- section of Diffley Road and Lexington Avenue. The council voted to settle the lawsuit, filed by the developer, with the condition that the traffic guidelines would follow a plan previously proposed by the city, which was rejected by the county, causing the original dispute. The county originally stated the project could not go forward without full access off Daniel Drive, which the city said was unacceptable because of the increased traffic it would cause. The city wanted a partial access for Daniel Drive. Diffley Ventures also had agreed to the partial access proposal. The developer sued the city based on a timing issue for deciding on the proposal. The county had the final say on the issue, because Diffley Road, which inter- sects with Daniel, is a county road. The county will take another look at the issue with the first hearing likely coming at a Committee of the Whole meeting Sept. 18, said County Commissioner Tom Egan, who represents the area in question. Egan was the only commissioner to vote to allow an entrance -only access from Daniel Drive, a residential street. "We got so focused on Daniel Drive that we lost sight of the rest of the plan," said Egan, adding that he has talked with several other commissioners who might be willing to reconsider the issue. "I think everyone wants to move this along as expeditiously as possible." "It's gone on far too long," said Mayor Mike Maguire of the lawsuit. "This settle- ment was an opportu- nity to take another shot" at county approval of the project. "I think that they are encouraged and hopeful that it can be approved [by the county]," said Gary Van Cleve, attorney for Diffley Ventures, speaking about his clients. "I am very happy that it looks like this thing is going to go forward." The lawsuit cost the city $5,000, as much of the legal costs, which amounted to about $51,000, were covered by an insur- ance policy, said Finance Director Gene VanOverbeke. Mike Maguire Maguire also pointed to a $20,000 public safety grant that will come from the devel- oper as part of the settlement, as another reason the city settled. He said that grant could be put toward making Daniel Drive safer for children and pedestrians once the development, which will include a Rademacher's whole foods grocery store, is built. The project is also planned to include a bank and another stand-alone structure. The city has received calls from resi- dents, some in support and some against the city's decision to settle, said City Administrator Tom Hedges. Hedges said the city e-mailed 55 people, who had previously commented on the issue, about the upcoming Aug. 21 meet- ing. But the message may have been vague because the city relied on its attorneys to draft the notice to ensure that no informa- tion that the city could not legally release was included in the notice. "I think our normal public notifica- tions might be a little more sensitive" to the public's understanding, said Hedges. "We normally try to err way over on the side of notification. "I think some people made the conclu- sion that it was all going to be done in closed session and there was no need to go to the meeting." (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) Letter was innaccurate To the editor: In his Aug. 22 letter to the editor, Frank Plesha describes upcoming actions of the District 197 board of education as "intend- ing to spend more for extra -curricular pro- grams." To ensure that community mem- bers are correctly informed, I want to set the record straight. As a result of the need to reduce spending by $1.6 million this year, the board made several painful decisions last spring, including many cuts to our co - curricular activities. We also instituted higher fees for par- ticipation. Other cost -saving measures included the elimination of 17 teachers, elimination of additional support staff, and fewer music opportunities. For the first time, we found it necessary to impose a transportation fee for high school stu- dents living within two miles of school. No program has gone unscathed. 1VIr Plesha is correct in stating that the District 197 board of education has placed two operating levy referenda on the ballot in November. Neither is for new initia- tives. It's important to note that District 197 currently has the lowest school taxes of all suburban districts in our area. Even if both questions are approved, our dis- trict will remain near the bottom. To reduce the impact, the board has opted to make the first question payable in 2008 and delay the onset of payments for the second question until 2009 - when the funds will be more critical. I encourage you to attend town hall meetings when scheduled and/or log into the district website at www.isd197.org for swers to your questions. Lani Bennett District 197 School Board chair VIit S/I/a7 t, a p ti b t w u li s h s r d s a n li d t] i] fi 0 n T tl p J S h t1 h ti c Jensen's Supper 11 years of great Establishing a good work environment has led to running a top -of -the -line restaurant for Jensen's Supper Club. "You look for the people who want to be in this business," said owner Doron Jensen. "That translates into taking care of the guests." Angel Sanchez, Jeremy Lucente, Paul Richards, Mark Moorhouse, Linda Towle, Jill Winberg and Joan Kreitlow have all been with Jensen's for almost as long as the 11 years the supper club has been entertaining people in the Eagan area. Some 45 people are employed at Jensen's, working together every night to create a special dining experience. Jensen's employees are considered to be part of the family. A Jensen's employee takes ownership of every situation, and does everything they can to accommodate a guest's request. All employees share the philosophy that by going above and beyond expectations, every guest will have a memorable experience. Jensen's offers an expansive wine list with more than 120 bottles. And its not just quantity that Jensen's offers as the supper club has received awards of excellence from Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator and Sante magazines for its wine selection. Martini lovers will find an extensive list of famous specialty recipes. Jensen's promises guests more than just a meal. "You're not coming here to satisfy only tion showing a majority of our neighbor- hood did not want this access. We con- ducted a pedestrian survey showing scores of children and adults using the street for recreation. We showed that no other city in the county flowed retail traf- fic onto a neighborhood street. Even when this developer sued the city to get his way, we won. The developer, unwilling to revise his proposal and come up with a safe alternative, appealed. For some reason, in a closed -door session, the city decided to cut a deal. Apparently securing tax revenue is of greater impor- tance than representing concerned resi- dents. We have been told that part of the settlement involves $20,000 in a traffic safety fund. So this council is aware that traffic problems will exist. I ask this for my entire community to ponder. Who will be responsible when my or my neighbor's child gets run over on their own street? This pittance of a traffic fund will not be enough to cover the loss. My approval rating of how my City Council is representing its citizenship and keeping neighborhood safety and quality of life a priority has taken a nosedive. "�•r 9//i� Janet Westenberg Ewan 1 F. t 1 a a Eagan, MN 55122 Owned And Operated By NRT Incorporated. DERRICK STRANDER REALTOR' 651-683-8330 Direct 651-452-5930 Business 651-452-5481 Fax do strander @cbburnet.com r BEAUTIFUL 18 HOLE GOLF COURSE just 30 minutes from Apple Valley on Hwy 52 Great New Clubhouse built in '06 Tuesday Golf Special! 18 holes with Cart - Only $35.00 (Seniors $26.50) Not valid with other offers. Please present this coupon. 507-263-3126 for tee times or membership info. Check out our website tor coupons. We accept the PGA card, Cancer Card, and Golf Minnesota Coupons! Check out our great website at www.cannongoliclub.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Charter FROM PAGE 1A The issue may sound familiar to Eagan residents, as they were asked the same question during elections in 2004. The measure was soundly defeat- ed, as 80 percent of Eagan residents voted to keep the city government as it is. The language in the charter proposal has changed this time around, as past provisions that would have added two more City Council seats and divide the city into wards have been removed from this year's proposal. Hedtke said by tak- ing out those provisions, he believes this version better reflects what residents want. Hedtke said the motivation for going for the referendum was not sparked by the lack of leadership from the city now or in the past, but that his group wants to ensure the city's future. "The way the city is run, it's run very well," said Hedkte. "There's nothing that says that's the way it has to be or that's the way it's going to be. The time to fix the roof is when the sun is shin- ing." He said the charter would set guide- lines for the City Council on issues such as preserving open space and planning for capital projects. The city has done a good job of preserving open space and budgeting, but once new land to development becomes scarce, the council might face a tougher budg- et picture, he said. This, might cause council members his personal opinion not that of the city or the City Council, said he saw no need for the city to switch its form of govern- ment. "1 don't see the need for this specific charter and I fail to see the benefit," he said. Maguire said the city has already developed a plan for preserving open space and the plan spelled out in the charter would be "a step backward." The charter would prohibit the city's selling of parkland or open space without a voter referendum. The city is currently looking toward preparing a community survey to gage public support of preserving current open space or the city acquiring more open space. He said the council's goal is the same as that spelled out in the char- ter — coming up with a plan to preserve open space. "There's no necessity for the charter to bring that change about," said Maguire, adding that the city already has a five-year capital improvement plan as would be required by the charter. Councilmember Paul Bakken said a city that does not plan five years ahead for capital improvements faces the risk of ruining its bond rating. "Any public servant with two brain cells to rub together is going to do that. You have to," he said. "To be honest, the only change is switching to a city manager form of gov- Mike Maguire E s t s h t e C t] t] e it tY e_ D p rE tl p b n cc p� st st b< cl do h� la d� w sa bt si In the Community, With the Community, For the Community 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, at Diamondhead Education Center in Burnsville. Volunteers are needed in Savage and Burnsville to work with adults in English as a Second Language, read, writing and math, as well as help with clerical support and other services. Daytime and evening hours are avail- able. No experience is necessary. Information: 952-707-4127. Pancake breakfast The Eastview High School Competition Cheerleaders will host a Pancake Breakfast 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at Applebee's in Apple Valley, 14678 Cedar Ave. Tickets are $5 for a breakfast of pancakes, eggs, sausage, juice and coffee. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance by sending an e- mail to evhscheerbooster(dhotmail.com. PP-teete EMMANUEL t LUTHERAN CHUI:(I t t HOLY LUl Last IU4lh Street (between Portland & Nicollet in Bloomington Sunday Worship Traditional 8:00am Contemporary 10:30am (nursery available) Education Hour 9:15am 952.888.2345 Inquire about our Christian Day Care & Preschool: 952.888.5116 "Shining the Light ..." SUNDAY WORSHIP 9:00 & 10:30 am 10658 210th St. West Lakeville (w. of Lakeville So. HS) 952-435-5548 www.trinityefc.net Family of Chri r \ Lutheran `J Church ELCA SUMMER Sunday Worship 8:30 & 10:00 am Nursery Provided East of 1-35 on 185th St., Lakeville Pastor Lon Larson 952-435-5757 www.familyofchrist.com 9 Immanuel City of Refuge Church EiCATHOLIC COMMUNITY OF Voterss;/ 20 to decide again on charter Format of Eagan city government to be determined GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS What form of city govern- ment do the residents of Eagan want? That question will be asked of voters this fall. The Eagan Charter Commission submitted a request to the city Aug. 21 that a special election be called to ask voters whether they prefer Eagan to remain a statutory city or become a charter city. Under state law, the city has 90 days to set a date for the elec- tion, which the Charter Commission asked to coincide with the Nov 6 general elec- tion where many school board candidates will be on the bal- lot. Eagan is now a statutory city, which uses guidelines set by the state. A charter city fol- low the rules laid out in a city charter, or a local constitution, said Eagan Charter Commission Chair Eric Hedtke. The charter proposal would provide a city manager rather than a city administrator, which the city has now. A city manager, while still serving at the discretion of the City Council, can make slightly more decisions than a city administrator without needing approval from the council. The charter is written by commission members appointed by a district judge and then must be approved by the state. 1L CHARTER: TO PAGE 17A GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS A toll lane may be in the picti Interstate 35W from Burnsvi Minneapolis. So, are more bu Cedar and park and ride sit Eagan and Lakeville. The Twin Cities was re awarded a $133.3 million gran the federal government to in transit and reduce gridlock on area roads. Transit on I-351, Highway 77 (Cedar Avenue) will main beneficiaries of the gr Dakota County. The carpool lane that exists St Interstate 494 to Burnsville v converted to a high -occupant (HOT) lane, as currently exists Minneapolis on Highway 394. and carpooling vehicles would 1 to use the lanes at no charge, other vehicles would pay a toll based on the volume of t Vehicles using the lane have a t is recognized by sensors and account is charged when they v into the HOT lane. The lane would continue in form all the way to Minneapoli St. Boni FaUF4 Friday, Sept. 7 Saturday, Sept. 1 SPONSORED BY: ST. BONAVENTURE CHI 90thSt. & 10'h Ave., Bloomingt( 952-854-4733 • r In the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com-Thursday, Aug. 30, 2007 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 5A Ruling delayed in cities vs. airport commission lawsuit Noise mitigation decision could come this week STEVEN PEASE • SUN NEWSPAPERS A ruling was delayed last week regarding a lawsuit brought by three cities seeking mitigation for homeown- ers living near Minneapolis -St. Paul International Airport. However, Hennepin County District Judge Stephen Aldrich could issue his decision as early as this week regarding the suit brought by the cities of Richfield, Minneapolis and Eagan against the Metropolitan Airports Commission and Northwest Airlines. "Stay tuned and they'll let us know when [the ruling] comes out," said Pam Dmytrenko, Richfield's assistant to the city manager. The cities filed the suit in March 2005 seeking noise insulation for houses with- in the 60 to 64 DNL surrounding the air- port. The DNL, or day -night level, refers to the average decibel level of jet noise. Under federal law, MAC already pro- vides free noise insulation, air-condi- tioning, windows and doors for houses in the noisier 65 DNL. In July, Aldrich asked the cities and MAC to submit "reasonable settlement terms." However, a mediation process Aug. 2 did not yield a settlement between the two parties, Dmytrenko said. 'The deal breaker has been on what is the appropriate amount of insulation. It's not the same for a home four miles from the airport as one right at the end of the runway.' — MAC Public Affairs Director Patrick Hogan Through mediation, a separate, class action lawsuit on behalf of more than 4,300 homeowners who live in Minneapolis, Richfield and Eagan reached a tentative settlement May 31 with the MAC. Under that settlement, owners of houses built before Oct. 1, 1998, would receive air conditioning, money for insulation and partial reimbursement for attorneys' fees. The details of that settlement are still being worked out, Dmytrenko said. Eagan, Minneapolis and Richfield offi- cials opted against joining the class action settlement. In the cities' case, Aldrich will decide whether roughly 1,000 Richfield single- family homes, and at least 5,000 others will receive noise insulation and other mitigation. MAC Public Affairs Director Patrick Hogan said that previous efforts to come to a settlement with the cities haven't panned out for one reason. "The deal breaker has been on what is the appropriate amount of insula- tion," Hogan said. "It's not the same for a home four miles from the airport as one right at the end of the runway" The cities argue that the MAC prom- ised full noise mitigation - including insulation, new windows and doors - as part of the 1996 decision to expand the airport at its current site. Under the fed- eral Part 150 program, such noise miti- gation is provided free of charge to houses in the noisier 65 and greater DNL area. The MAC opted instead to ,offer par- tial funding for central air-conditioning to residents without it in the 60-64 DNL. The air-conditioning, the MAC said, would allow residents to keep their win- dows closed on warm summer days, thus helping keep some airplane noise out. The upcoming decision will be the judge's final decision on all of the counts the cities brought against the MAC, Dmytrenko said. "We feel very optimistic," Dmytrenko said. "We have every reason to believe that an order will be in our favor." Dmytrenko said that Aldrich's ruling in February that there was enough evi- dence to warrant a trial "bodes well for other aspects of the lawsuit." Aldrich will rule on whether the MAC, by failing to implement a reason- able sound insulation program in the 60- 64 DNL, has destroyed the "quietude" which would otherwise exist in the affected neighborhoods. A ruling was expected Aug. 24, but a clerk for Aldrich said that will be delayed because of circumstances "beyond his control," Dmytrenko said. A ruling could come as early as this week. Aldrich's decision could set a prece- dent for future cases, Dmytrenko said. "We're breaking new ground here," she said. "This is all new policy" Dmytrenko said that the MAC has "said all along that they will appeal" the judge's decision if he rules in favor of the cities. However, Hogan said Aug. 23 that air- port officials "will await the judge's decision before we decide what our next step will be." The next step would be taking the case to the Court of Appeals. For more information, visit www.cityofrichfield.org or www.mac- noise.com. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentso uth (2,)acnpapers. com.) OPIlOTION These pages are provided as a forum to debate ideas of interest and importance in our communities. Signed letters should be no longer than 250 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers and address for verification purposes. Submitted letters and columns become the property of Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and publish them in any format, including online. THURSDAY, AUG. 30, 2007 • APPLE VALLEY, ROSEMOUNT & EAGAN • VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.MNSUN.COM • © 2007 SUN NEWSPAPERS • PAGE 6A GUEST COLUMNIST DANIELLE ANSELMENT Eagan Police Department public information officer Time to talk about school bus safety High on the checklist of back -to -school preparation is a list of bus safety reminders for parents, children and motorists. Every Minnesota .-ocnnnsible for OUR VIEWPOINT School bus safety a two-way street By and large, the big yellow bus is still a safe way to travel. In 2006, there were nearly 200 accidents involving school buses and other vehicles. In all of those accidents, two fatalities were reported, and both were passengers in the other vehicles, not the bus. The number of school bus crashes has been going down, according to statistics from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety. There were 961 crash- es in 1997, compared to 625 crashes in 2006. However, to keep both students and drivers safe, some rules must be obeyed. Students of all ages are required to participate in bus evacuation drills, and Minnesota law requires that school bus safety education be taught during the first three weeks of school. The law also suggests that kindergartners receive school bus safety training before they come to school the first day. Students are responsible for their actions in and around the bus, and motorists, too, must be aware of the proper course of action when a school bus is in the area. State statistics indi- ar;=rnr inattention and failure to yield 38 •erc- • is to warn other drivers that the school bus is preparing to load or unload students. A school bus driver is required (with some exceptions) to activate the amber flashing lights at least 100 feet before stopping in a speed zone of 35 mph or less, and at least 300 feet before stop- ping in a speed zone of more than 35 mph. It is a gross misdemeanor to pass or attempt to pass on the right side of a school bus display- ing the amber flashing warning lights. Upon observing a school bus displaying flashing amber lights, be alert for children in the area and be prepared to stop. 2) When the school bus is stopped with its flashing red lights activated and its stop arm extended, traffic from both directions must stop at least 20 feet away from the school bus. Motorists must remain stopped until the stop arm is retracted and the red lights are no longer flashing. The only time motorists are not required to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing is when the bus is on a sep- arate road. A separate road means a road that is separated from a parallel road by a safety aisle or safety zone. These rules should be kept in mind during EAGAN SUNCURRENT In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Jeff Coolman, Group Publisher -VP jcoolman@acnpapers.com 952-392-6807 Peggy Bakken, Executive Editor suneditor@acnpapers.com 952-392-6822 Grant Boelter, Community Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-882-2463 Mike Shaughnessy, Sports Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-392-7667 Bonnie Boberg, Managing Editor suncurrentsouth@acnpapers.com 952-882-2461 Rachel Stone, Account Executive rstone@acnpapers.com 952-392-6852 Pam Miller. Classified Manager pmiller@acnpapers.com 952-392-6862 Dan Miller, Advertising Director dmiller@acnpa .ers.com j-v-21cs rl�q/05 Should Eagan become a charter? 4 CHARTER FROM Sl In 2004, 80 percent of about 31,000 Eagan voters cast ballots against a charter that would have created wards in the city, added two seats to the five - member City Council and giv- en residents more power to call elections on city issues. "We took the election results as a rejection of not necessari- ly a charter overall, but of what was presented," Hedtke said. Extra costs for election To be enacted, the charter needs a "yes" vote from a majority ofvot- ers who cast ballots in the election. The city wasn't scheduled to run a general election this fall, though at least two local school boards have elections scheduled on Nov 6. It's hard to guess what voter turnout might be for this elec- tion, said City Administrator Tom Hedges, but the last time the city held a special election, in June 2000, voter turnout was 16 percent. In the 2006 gener- al election, 65 percent of Eagan voters cast ballots. And in the 2004 presidential election — when Eagan last considered a charter — 81 percent of voters showed up. The charter submitted last week came as a surprise to Hedges and other city staff. Last time around, the com- mission submitted a charter on June 25 and it appeared on the Nov 2 ballot, giving voters more than four months to con- sider the issue. Running a special election costs the city about $30,000, said city spokesman Tom Gar- rison. Voting on the charter and school issues on the same day will save some money, but it would have been cheap- er to decide the charter ques- tion in a general election year, he said. The City Council will set the date of the election, but if it picks Nov 6, the city will have to supervise school elec- tions. Among other things, that means changing voting pre- cinct locations on short notice. The city may have to spend an extra $10,000 on a mailing to tell residents where to vote, Garrison said. The commission submit- ted a charter this fall partly be- cause it worried it might not have another chance, Hedtke said. State legislation intro- duced last session would have set guidelines for disband- ing a charter commission if a community votes to reject a charter, though the measure wouldn't have immediately applied to the Eagan Charter Commission. State law lays out the pro- cess for forming a charter commission but leaves it up to the commission to dissolve it- self. The Eagan Charter Com- mission was formed in 2001 by a district court judge who received a petition signed by more than 800 Eagan voters. But after voters nixed the commission's first charter in 2004, the group kept working — a decision that didn't sit well with everyone. One former commission member filed suit to force the group to disband, but a judge ruled in 2005 that it could stick around. Even if the current char- ter fails to pass, the commis- sion won't disband, said Betty Fedde, one of three original members still serving on the commission. `Hellbent' on charter? The changes proposed now are aimed not so much at fixing current problems as prevent- ing future city crises, Hedtke said. For example, hiring a city manager, he said, would help successors of the current city administrator maintain the au- thority now afforded Hedg- es, who has held the position for 30 years. And requiring five-year capital improvement plans would reduce the temp- tation for future city councils to make irresponsible fiscal decisions. "It's easy to do the budget- ing when there's money com- ing in from all this new de- velopment," Hedtke said. But council members are politi- cians, he added, and "it's easy to make a decision not to raise tax rates." City Council Member Paul Bak- ken takes a less charitable view of the charter commission's motives. 'After the drubbing the charter folks took last time, they've kind of gotten into a position where they're hellbent on forcing Eagan into a charter form of govern- ment, no matter the consequenc- es," he said. Though Hedtke and other charter proponents described the open space preservation fund as the most important part of the charter, some city officials pointed out that the City Council is already moving ahead with a very similar pro- posal. Including it in the char- ter, Bakken argued, is a way of "pandering to an issue that they know is popular in Eagan." The city wouldn't need to enact a charter to hire a city manager, according to the League of Minnesota Cities. And Eagan already works from long-term capital improve- ment plans, Bakken said. "The fact that they're por- traying this as a brand-new thing and a step forward for the city is kind of puzzling to PROS AND CONS OF GOING CHARTER Of the 854 cities in Min- nesota, 107 run on home - rule charters, including Minneapolis and St. Paul as well as, in the south metro, Northfield and New Prague. Eagan voters will consider some of these points before deciding whether to enact a charter: PROS • Residents have more control over local govern- ment. • If state law is silent on a topic, a charter com- munity can enact rules addressing the issue. It can also pass more stringent laws than those set by the state. • Though Eagan's char- ter doesn't include these measures, charters can provide for initiative and referendum and election of council members by ward. CONS • Because charters vary so much, charter cities generally can't rely on the experience of other charter cities as much as statutory cities can. • Poorly drafted char- ters can be a burden or a liability. • Amending a charter can be cumbersome and time-consuming. In some cases, residents for or against a controversial change take it to the Legis- lature, defeating the pur- pose of a charter. Source: League of Minnesota Cities me." Sarah Lemagie • 612-673-7557 Regardless of charter, `conservative greens' have plans for open land Key among the mea- sures proposed by the char- ter Eagan voters will con- sider this fall is the creation of an open space preserva- tion fund that would help set aside more park land in the city. The charter would also prohibit the city from selling park land without voter ap- proval and calls for maintain- ing the city's existing ratio of about 70 acres of open space per 1,000 residents. However, the Eagan City Council has already em- barked on the process of cre- ating a similar open space preservation fund. This month, the council gave the stamp of approval to earmark $60,000,from the city's com- munity investment fund to go toward acquisition of park land. The amount is "a drop in the bucket" of what the city would need to acquire land of any size, said Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire. But the step is part of a larger discussion that could lead to more fund- ing, possibly through a pub- lic vote similar to the $20 mil- lion bond referendum for ac- quisition of open space that was passed by Dakota Coun- ty residents in 2002. But that's an approach city officials won't try until they take a much closer look at the idea, said council mem- ber Paul Bakken. "We want to be really cautious and make sure that that's even some- thing the community would want to consider before we even go down that path." The push for more park land reflects what some ex- perts characterize as a dis- tinctive commitment to land preservation in Eagan. The city is an epicenter of "con- servative greens," said Bill Morris, president of Deci- sion Resources, which con- ducts community surveys for dozens of Twin Cities suburbs. Of the south -met- ro cities he's worked with, Eagan is both the greenest and the most fiscally conser- vative, with residents saying they'll open what are other- wise pretty tight fists to pay for open space. As Maguire put it, "There is no doubt that people in this city have a very, very high regard for the preservation of land. It doesn't mean we open up the bank and spend like drunken sailors in order to pursue it." Residents may feel an ur- gent need to save land be- cause the city is close to be- ing built -out, Morris said. "Eagan has been a growing city, and as a result, the field, perhaps, that had stood across the neighborhood for many, many years has now disap- peared into a subdivision." Sarah Lemagie • 612-673-7557 DRX9000C W.w iii pinediwcenteccom loos Gn Hrvtd I loos On Heard nine & Disc Center David Dirks Chiropractie Physician 52-236-0930 Trail, Suite 100 • Lakeville. MN 55044 t 5 SIM `i E.YOU AUTOMATICALLY GET EXTRA DISCOUNTS 4N EVERYTHING IN THE FLEXSTEEL SIGNATURE GALLERY, INCLUDING CUSTOM ORDERS. lifFlexsteel OIGNATUREr ALLERY. 'Excluding Wrangler Home Collections and 1117 Dylan Croup. Prior sales excluded. Offer valid through September 2S, 2m7. Ysft store for details. Cannot be combined With other offers. CONY Irlv/E#ilr, EASY METRO LOCATIONS. COON RAPIDS - 216.3 Coon Rapids Blvd. ELK RIVER - Hwy. 10 & Jarvis ^tnrg„ts,.)r,•r: rr: 763-755-4149 763-441-7011 Easy To sNnp OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! MON.-FRI. 9 AM-9 PM; SAT. 9 AM-6 PM: SUN. 10 AM-6 PM We Never Close... w+vww_furnitzsreand'things.cem FINANCING AVAILABLE • GIFT CARDS FALL 12 Acres of Outdoor Treasures 10 Os On tvtd 1000s Of items Are On Display! Arbors • Picnic Tabus • Swingy `� Patio Furniture Sets • Planters Lighthouses • Wishng Wells Windmills • Pottery Statue • Chimineas Light Posts • Bridges 1 Birdbaths & Feeders Uow 40 Sets J35% Off Stock WOs Of jherei 7r Maiittenarne-3,ee Wood Plants and Things USA 763-427-4103 Hwy. 10 at Sunfish Lake Blvd., Anoka • Open 7 Days A Week • 9 a.m.-9 p.m. www.plantsandthingsusa.com LAKEVILLE Walking in Lakeville North students' shoes Lakeville North High School, 19600 Ipava Av., is having an open house on Sept. 17 where parents can walk through their children's schedules. Parents should arrive between 6 and 6: 20 p.m. Those who have print- ed out their student's sched- ule can go directly to the first - hour class. Students' names will be on a window in the commons, along with first -hour teachers' names. Parents whodon't have copies of the schedule can get one from the first -hour teach- er. Parents will have 10 minutes in each class to meet the teach- er and learn about the class. There is a five-minute passing time between classes, and ear- ly -bird classes will meet at the end of the evening. ROSEMOUNT-APPLE VALLEY-EAGAN Eastview community all -school fun ride School -age children and their families who live in the Eastview area are welcome to participate in the first East - view Community Foundation All -School Fun Ride on Sept. 29. The bike ride costs $20 for students, $25 for adults and a maximum of $75 for a family. Participants can chose wheth- er to ride a two-mile, five -mile or 11.5-mile route. And those riders who raise a minimum amount will be eligible for prize drawings, which include three bicycles. Registration is from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at Eastview High School, 6200 140th St. W., Apple Val- ley. The first bike ride starts at 10 am. All money raised will go back to the schools repre- sented. For registration forms and more information, go to www.evcf.org. EMILY JOHNS Cleanup will benefit Thomas Lake Divers, volunteers will help remove trash by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS On Saturday, Aug. 25, Thomas Lake in Eagan will be swarming with divers seeking treasure. Well, more like trash. The Dakota County Sher- iff's Office Underwater Recov- ery Unit is sponsoring a clean- up effort at the lake along with volunteers from Boy Scout Troop 23, the Thomas Lake Coalition, Scuba Daddy's Dive Shop and students from the School of Environmental Studies. Eagan residents are also welcome to join the cleanup, which begins at 9 a.m. and will likely end around 2 p.m. "Thomas Lake has a lot of public property around it, with a church and a park right there, and we find there's more likely to be litter on public property than if the lake wer surrounded by private prop erty," said Det. Coreen Kul vich of the Dakota Count Sheriff's Office Underwate Recovery Unit. Divers and volunteers will help remove trash from the wa- ter and shoreline, everything from cans to candy wrappers — whatever isn't native to the, lake bottom, she said. See Cleanup, 19A 44r, Manual, 2.5L 5- $d 6,925 cyl, 13,940 M1.960336 86 03 DODGE CARAVAN 25,773 mi. 13150 03 DODGE RAM 1500 2dr, 4WD www-DodgeofBurnsin Cleanup/from 1 A 4 a/� This is the seventh .year the Underwater Recovery Unit has participated in cleanup efforts on local lakes. The event is part of the larger International Cleanup Day, coordinated by Profes- sional Association of Diving Instructors, during which more than 300,000 volun- teers participate in removing trash from water and shore- lines in more than 100 coun- tries. Previous cleanups in area lakes have yielded a wide range of trash, from dis- carded bicycles and tires to water heaters and car seats, Kulvich said. One year volunteers re- moved 850 pounds of trash from a single lake, she said. "We're looking for volun- teers from the community to come out and help," she said. "If they're scuba cer- tified, they can dive in and help in the lake." Thomas Lake is in Thom- as Lake Park, 4425 Pilot Knob Road, on the west side of the road between Cliff and Diflley roads. Erin Johnson 'is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 'sun m- )ry of Ap- charge of the reigns assistant n that will op-10 and e title. :y starters at setter," will help i-fitrt,V re"- 9(— I07 Lawsuit/from 1A• proved the same proposal in 2005 with one exception: There could be no access on Daniel Drive. Area residents had pro- tested the access point on Daniel Drive, fearing an in- crease in traffic would make their street less safe. The county, however, re- quired that the project have full access on Daniel Drive in order to. get full access on Diffley, a county road and the main access point of the development. The council attempted in 2006 to compromise by approving a version of the proposal that included one- way access on Daniel Drive and three-quarters access on Diffley Road, the same pro- posal agreed to in Tuesday's settlement. The county originally de- nied that version of the pro- posal, as well, insisting on full access on Daniel Drive. The stalemate between the city and county essentially brought the development to a standstill, and last June, Diffley Ventures sued the city to get its original plan approved, which included access to Daniel Drive. The developer claimed that the city missed a statu- tory deadline to approve or deny the developer's origi- nal proposal and the plan should, therefore, be auto- matically approved. A district court judge threw out the case last No- vember, and the developer appealed. Now that a settlement has been reached, the question remains whether the county will approve the same plan it denied last year. County Commissioner Thomas Egan, the only member who voted in favor of the original proposal, said he thinks there is hope that the plan will now be ap- proved. Further discussions be- tween the developer and the county have brought clarifi- cation to the access issue, he said, including two existing access points to the develop- ment that some of the com- missioners had not previ- ously been aware of. The additional access points, on Patrick Road and on Lexington, have "mini- mized the safety issues the board was concerned about," he said. Although he can't predict how his fellow commission- ers will vote on the issue, Egan said several have re- viewed the plan and con- cluded they were mistaken about the access issue. "I feel confident that this will be resolved," he said. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Sports should be strong yet again v Rogers s built a )rogram at !rent as the of the top irters from ,urth in the lville and 'ks, Laurel ind Malia im will be fferent at- )onents on ne strong Diffley Marketplace lawsuit is settled Proposed grocery store development could have second chance after city/ county stalemate over access issues by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A proposed grocery store and retail development in Ea- gan may have a second chance to go forward after a dispute between the city and the coun- ty stalled the project and re- sulted in a lawsuit against the city. The Eagan City Council on Tuesday approved a settle- ment agreement with Diffley Ventures LLC, which sued the city last June to get its pro- posed development, Diffley Marketplace, approved with- out conditions. Diffley Marketplace is planned as an 11-acre devel- opment on Diffley Road and Lexington Avenue, next to 'the existing Walgreens. It is set to include a 43,000-square-foot Rademacher's grocery store and two multi -tenant retail buildings. The approved settlement allows a three-quarters access to the development from Diff- ley Road and an entrance -only access on nearby residential street Daniel Drive. The council originally ap- See Lawsuit, 19A `j l Id c 1- — - Auto, or CO Player/MP3. Power Iwmo,ocks,mirrorsl, Overhead Console & morel a 90048 ure_r1. EVITIo01161 '2,000 down. plus I payment & lie, a 249 '0 down, plus I payment & Iic. ='329 07 larpr San & Power Sunroof & Boston Acoustic Sound. A.. ,;,.;, Windows, Locks, Mirrors), CO Player, Power Seat. Mulock- '2,000 down. plus 1- payment & lic. _ `279 '0 down. plus 1' payment & lic. ='335 ene ce ment pa Iu,1e IN PaymW. da<he. Na Sent n,md,d. Minvon 05 CHEVY MALIBU 111211= 4dr, Sedan, LS 3.5L $a� O 6 Cyl., A/T nowt 06 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUN 4dr, LWB, Touring, 3.8L.$ 4 6,9 6-cyl, 35,286 mi. 331eo 06 DODGE RAM1500 -1 #1` 4.7L, 8-cyl, 4dr, $�� Quad Cab, A/T 131 5 fl • 888- 7 Charter/from lA Fund. "It's giving power to the res- idents to decide what they want to do," he said. The new revised version of the charter essentially locks in the things that the city is already doing right, Hedtke said. "The system has been work- ing. Let's hold (the city) to that when decisions aren't as easy to make, and ensure the things that are going right will con- tinue to go right," he said. Nonsense, City Council Member Paul Bakken said. Not only is the city already doing most of the things the new charter provides for, he said, but charters can't lock anything in. "Once you've got a charter, you can start amending it like crazy," he said. As the "gatekeeper" of the charter, the Charter Commis- sion itself can propose amend- ments at any time that must be put to an election, he said. "I suspect it would be a short time before we would see an amendment to institute wards and an expanded coun- cil size," he said. Bakken has been an outspo- ken critic of the charter since it was first proposed in 2004. He ontends that the charter itself is getting in the way of the city's Open Space Preservation Fund progress — the city will have to put its work on hold pending results of the election. In addition, he said, the charter's version of the fund allocates $25,000 in start-up money, while the city's version currently allocates an initial $60,000. "By voting for the charter, people would essentially water down the city's open -space ef- fort," he said. "It's (the Char- ter Commission's) attempt at pandering to the open -space crowd." The only thing the charter really changes is the role of the city administrator, but even that can be changed without overhauling the city's form of government, he said. "Once again, it's a charter for the sake of having a char- ter," Bakken said. The 13-member Charter Commission, formed in 2001, has seen its share of controver- sy. In addition to vocal opposi- tion from such heavyweights as Gov. Tim Pawlenty, an Eagan resident, the commission was sued by one of its former mem- bers in 2005. Tom King, with Bakken as his attorney, claimed the com- mission violated its own bylaws by not disbanding after a char- ter was defeated by voters. A judge later ruled that the com- mission could stay intact. The city of Eagan and the Charter Commission have fre- quently been at odds over fi- nancing and whether or not the commission is considered part of the city. The commission be- lieves it is under the city's um- brella, while the city claims it is an independent agent, answer- able to the courts. Regardless, the city is legally required to reimburse the com- mission up to $1,500 each year for charter -related expenses, which it has been doing for the last six years. Charter cities in the metro area include Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Richfield, St. Louis Park, Brooklyn Park, Plymouth, Anoka, Blaine, Hopkins and Minnetonka, among others. Eagan is the only city among the 10 largest in Minnesota that is not a charter city, the Eagan Charter Commission said. The Eagan Charter Com- mission is currently working on creating a Web site that will have more information on the proposed charter for residents. Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc. corn. ReI1jbn through k medical crisis Two and one-half hours later, the surgeon walked out to where family and friends were gathered in prayer and Bible study. Upon seeing him so quick- ly, the group let out a gasp in unison. To their relief, he informed them the surgery was a suc- cess, and if all went well, she could be home by Wednesday night. "I was home Tuesday morning, 21 hours after I went into the hospital," Sally said. The next letter Sally sent out joyfully informed all who had prayed that their prayers were answered in the way they desired. While God answered Sal- ly's prayers as everyone had hoped, he doesn't always do so in every situation, said Rev. Don Reigstad, senior pastor of Trinity Evangelical Free Church, Lakeville. "It's one of the most Photo by Laura Ade!mann Sally Kettle reads the Scripture passage from Isaiah 41:10, which she requested friends to pray for her as she faced high -risk surgery. young son Danny, yet saw swered because of a lack of other children with diseases faith, or because they don't I Judge's ruling puts brakes on Dakota Academy's bid to resume classes y Should -s ItVzr'il°7 Eagan become a charter? • Eagan voters will consider a home -rule charter this fall, for the second time in three years. By SARAH LEMAGIE slemagie@startribune.com Three years after Eagan voters overwhelmingly defeated a proposal to change their form of local govern- ment, they will once again consider a home -rule charter. On Aug. 21, the Eagan Charter Commission submitted a proposal to the city to abandon Eagan's cur- rent form of statutory government in favor of a charter. The city must hold a special election on the ques- tion within 90 days — a requirement that has city staff scrambling to re- serve polling locations and recruit election judges. Unlike statutory cities, which rely on state law for their power, charter cities draw up what is basically a lo- cal constitution. The proposed charter calls for a government that looks a lot like what's currently in place, with a few key changes, said commission chair- man Eric Hedtke. The charter would replace the city administrator with a city manager, a position with more power to execute day-to-day city business without City Council approval. It would also re- quire the city to come up with a five- year capital improvement plan each year. And it would prohibit the city from selling park land without voter approval and would create an open space preservation fund to help set aside more park land in Eagan. Charter continues: Some pros and cons of going charter. S5 ► other pedestrian to be struck by a car while crossing Nicollet, whether it's to get to the Dou- comin ble Dip or anyplace else, high- er there' lights a traffic issue that has across th Burnsville officials worried. it. Motori As more events are sched- trians' uled in the Heart of the City, to cross the Performing Arts Center And gets built, and more people the MnD live, work or patronize restau- to leave For the habitu MY VIEW CURTIS F. SAUNDERS ironic se mother. to eve I hate being late. cause sh And knowing a pace t this, God, with his sluggish ironic sense of hu- bute this t mor, led me to fall in her 83- in love with some- gargantu one with absolutely no time no, this is sensibilities whatsoever. This long as I' means that I have not been on "I'll time to a family gathering or a and read dinner with friends, or anything I've 1 else involving my lovely spouse, have a d since 1983. And even more iniq- get to, I t uitous is that not only is she un- fore it's a aware of this trait, but she denies way we we're ever late to anything. on time, "Honey, we'd better get go- I hav ing. We don't want to be late to there's o the Loose's like last time." feel guil "Late? We weren't late. In doctor's fact, we were early, as I recall." ing to th "Honey, we showed up and Health St they were already serving des- wait to se sert." 46.5 minut "Oh, Sweetie," she says, pat- you can e ting my cheek as though 1 were it's the doc a poor, confused child, "It was Wrong, a dessert party. We were early, ered. don't you remember?" About I have never, and will never, Mom to win this argument. in St. Paul On the flip side of God's raised LETTERS Trou Let new bridge be whe its own memorial structed convem Rather than trying to de- easy wa cide what kind of memori- downto al can be built near the new lis. This bridge, the bridge itself should I sat ar be the monument. We do not utes w need just a roadway on stilts. the He We need a beautiful memorial sat ther bridge, not only to honor those a doze who died, but as a promise to watche all of us to do better. the stat C'NRAD RnvK'a nm Thisweek Because the news never stops `?/Z r/L,-. an www.thisweek-online.com Charter will again appear on ballots New version of proposed city charter includes changes inspired by residents; opponents say changing Eagan's form of government is still unnecessary by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Despite a resounding de- feat by voters in 2004, the Ea- gan Charter Commission this November will again try its luck at the polls with a new proposed city charter. Because there are no city elections scheduled, the char- ter will require a special elec- tion, which will cost about $30,000, according to the city. Eighty percent of Eagan voters struck down the last proposed charter, which would have changed the city's form of government. Instead of deriv- ing its power from state stat- ues, Eagan would essentially be ruled by a city constitution, called a charter. The new proposed charter includes some major changes, inspired by resident input, that the Charter Commission hopes will help it pass. A provision to divide Ea - What is a charter? The Eagan Charter Commission began in 2001 when a group of Eagan residents collected 767 signatures to peti- tion the court for approval to form a charter commission. The purpose of the 13-member commission was to explore the idea of turning Eagan from a statutory city into a char- ter city. A statutory city derives its power from Minnesota stat- utes; whereas, a charter city obtains its power from a home - rule charter, which is essentially a city constitution. Charter cities can exercise any powers in their adopted charters, provided they do not conflict with state laws. Charters can also restrict the powers of a city and allow voters more control over the city's powers. The charter must be approved by voters through a public election. Proponents say charters allow more local control for resi- dents, while opponents say Eagan already has an excellent system of government and there is no need to change it. gan into four wards, each with its own council member in addition to a mayor and two at -large council members, has been removed from the new version, as has the provision that would allow five citizens to challenge council action by petitioning for a referendum. Those provisions were not popular with residents, Eagan Charter Commission Chair Eric Hedtke said. "Those were the two that seemed to be the most contro- versial," he said. The new charter would still give more authority to a city manager to handle daily deci- sions, allowing the council to focus on bigger policy issues. The city manager position would replace the position of city administrator, currently held by Tom Hedges. New provisions in the pro- posed charter include a city fund to preserve parks and open space, and the require- ment of voter approval be- fore the city can sell any park land. Hedtke said the open -space fund is modeled after the city's own draft of such a fund that is currently in the works, called the Open Space Preservation See Charter, 11A 2A August 25, 2007 THISWEEK simmer CLEARANCE L IV F. t I"'F_ MSRP $34,405 Rebate-$6,000 Discount .... -$5.110 '2.000 down, plus l^ payment & $. 1 '0 down, plus 1" payment 9 00 ='319 fir' Ends August 31 st Appointment CO% FOR 6 Grand C Durango s, SPECIAL OF THE MONTH 07 Grand Caravan SO ALL THE TOYS! •Leather Seats *Heated Seats •Power Liftgate •Rear Seat Video •Wireless Headphones *Infinity Speakers •Power Driver & Pass. Seat •3-Zone Temp Control •In -Dash 6-Disc CD'DVDMIP3 .2,000 down. plus 1" payment & tic. = '235 $0 down, plus 1" payment & tic. = $309 MSRP $32,010 Rebate -$4,000 Discount-$4,111 $23,899 Owner Loyalty -$1,000'24J 'SHOD ••M•,pal. Keep Eagan's city parks clean To the editor: I am one of many dog own- ers, joggers, walkers and oth- ers- who appreciate the beauty of our Eagan parks. I happen to visit Rahn Athletic Field daily to exercise my dog. I'm there early in the morn- ing; bag in hand, ready to pick up after my dog so as to leave the park in the same condi- tion I'd like to find it in my- self. The problem here is that I, along with numerous others I'm sure, find and pick up the garbage, fast food bags, empty cans, clothing and many other disgusting items left behind by the thoughtless, mindless, careless and rude citizens that abuse this, and I'm certain many other parks in our city. The city of Eagan does a fantastic job of caring for and beautifying these parks. There are garbage cans by every ball field and in many other loca- tions, yet some people don't have the common sense, de- cency and maturity to put their trash in them. I find piles of trash within 3 feet of a garbage can. Countless cups, food containers and piles of cigarettes butts dropped out of car doors. I've even found mattresses and furniture left in the park. If you read this and are responsible for these things, you are disgusting. And to everyone that does go out of their way to pick up after yourselves and these slobs, thank you. I and many others appreciate your sense of decency. KEVIN McDOUGALL Eagan /alley Eagan Eagan DO Centre Cedar Cliff Eagan 4112 651 454 / 1390 651 456 www.colessalon.com Eagan Parks and Recreation will sponsor Holz Farm Lone Oak Days from 11 a.m. to 4� p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, and Sunday, Sept. 30, at Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Drive, Fagan Thu Because the news never stops n Digging out Eagan cleans up after weekend storms `l 1s v°-7 www.thisweek-online.com by Tad Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A thunderstorm that raced through Dakota County on Monday, Aug. 13, dumping more rain on the area didn't help as Eagan residents con- tinue to dig out from a storm in the early morning hours of Saturday, Aug. 11. With "wind gusts estimated from 70.to 80 mph and about f .5 inches of rain in a little over an hour, Saturday's storm re- sulted in many trees uprooted or large branches broken and scattered in roads and lawns. There were some power outages and a gas line leak on Hanover Court in the eastern part of the city. Crews worked into the day on Saturday to stop the gas leak. Beginning after the storm hit 'at approximately 3:31 a.m. Saturday morning, police, public works or firefighters responded to more than 160 See Storms, 3A Photo by Rick Orndor/ A tree had snapped off its trunk on Denmark Court West after an early Saturday morning wind and rain storm raced through Eagan. 2A August 18, 2007 THISWEEK 2007 MODE Power Doors, Power Seat, Power Wind/Locks/Mirrors, Quad Seats - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Wheels, Sunscreen, AntiLock/Traction Control, Root Rack '2,000 down, plus 1 ° payment & Ilc. = '196 SO down. ptus 1" payment & lic. = $272 MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,000 Discount -$3,610 $20,995 Owner Loyalty 41,000 ,10199 07 Dako , Club Cab Auto, V6. Air Conditioning, CD Player, Becket . Seats, Power Seat, Rear Seat South Special Edition ALL THE FEATURES OF THE SXT PLUS ;,r e es5 — Heated Seats, Power Littgate. Rear Seat Video, Wireless Headphones, Infinity Speakers, Power Driver 8 Pass. Seat 3-Zone Temp Control, In -Dash 6-Disc CD/DVD/MP3 2,000 down, plus 1" payment & lic. ='235 SO down, plus 1" payment & lic. _ $309 Owner Loyalty-51.000 = FOR 7(2(MOS ON 107 CABANA Air, Auto, CD Player, Power (Windows, Locks, Minors) Anti -Lock Brakes, Trailer Tow #99019 k: s 0161 1' ilJ?l2cc 7_ Ph, i, 6r Rick Orndorf A road sign was twisted near the intersection of Elrene and Ridge roads in Eagan after Saturday's storm that had wind gusts up to 80 mph, according to the city. Storms/from lA calls regarding downed wires, downed trees in roadways, or fires resulting from still active power lines. The city of Eagan's Cen- tral Maintenance Department took calls Saturday regarding trees and debris obstructing streets and worked more than 20 hours Saturday and Sunday clearing debris from roadways and rights of way that posed safety concerns in some 200 or more locations citywide. City public works employ- ees canvassed the entire city to identify debris posing a hazard or obstructing traffic. They later made a second sweep to remove secondary debris in public areas. As of noon Monday, Xcel Energy reported that all service had been restored in Eagan. According to published re- ports, more than 250,000 metro area Xcel customers were with- out power due to Saturday's storm. By late Monday, 5,000 customers were without power. Because of the power outag- es, one-third of Eagan's water wells were affected by isolated power outages. Residents were urged to use water sparingly on Saturday. Among the work that took more time to address, crews fixed two power poles that were downed along Letendre Street. One was not affecting service, the other was causing some outages in the area. As the cleanup continues, the city of Eagan reminded res- idents that it is city policy that it is the homeowner's or property owner's responsibility to re- move and dispose of trees that fall on their own property, and debris should not be placed in roadways or near fire hydrants. "We understand that there is debris piling up out there," said Eagan City Administrator Tom Hedges. "What may not be understood, is that private tree contractors or homeowners are responsible for. removing the debris within the next 30 days." Residents were asked to take debris to the Gerten's compost site at 805 Yankee Doodle Road near Elrene Road from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday -Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. City officials reported that an e-mail sent by one resident to neighbors incorrectly stated the city would p y for some tree removal from a catastrophe fund. There is no such catastro- phe fund, according to the city. Residents may ask their insur- ance company to determine if homeowner's coverage covers some of these costs. Property owners also are responsible for restoring dam- aged power line connecting points to a home or businesses by hiring a private electrician. There were no deaths or re- ported injuries from the storm, but one Eagan firefighter was treated and released for head injuries sustained when a ceil- ing collapsed at a fire, possibly started by a downed power line. The state fire marshal is investi- gating. For more information about power concerns, call Xcel En- ergy at 1-800-895-4999 or Da- kota Electric at (651) 463-6201. The city of Eagan's Central Maintenance Department is. taking calls at (651) 675-5300 regarding trees or debris that are obstructing streets or public rights of way. Aar go'nq badly- )ngre5<> fa l f5 to rarp the 0010 fu ale e�C Dloci rr�irq a 9 I a �r�6� ® 2007 Rochester Post -Bulletin Co.LLC. Ed Fischer Syndicate fischerO post-twte5n. com Letters structed on how to vote as far back as 2003? Did his party leaders tell him then to "vote no on education, Wardlow"? Or did Wardlow decide on his own to slash the District 196 budget? It is a question worth posing to Wardlow as he con- tinues to represent a commu- nity filled with families and school age children. MIKE SUPINA Eagan Facts should be a priority To the editor: In response to last week's letter, to blame the sport stadi- ums for the I-35W bridge col- lapse is both in bad taste and factually wrong. The stadiums were debated for 10-plus years, and during that time no tax dollars were diverted from highway proj- ects for any stadiums. Where did all the tax mon- ey go that should've been used to improve the highways dur- ing that time? The money to build the Twins Stadium is coming from a small sales tax from items bought in Hennepin County, the very place that will benefit most from the tourism gener- ated. No tax money from the general or highway fund is going to be used, so how does building the stadium take away from roads? In fact, stadium was built in Minne- apolis. TIM LaPOSA Farmington Why should the U.S. appease its enemies? To the editor: Do Paul Hoffinger, Alan Miller and Greg Skog, letter writers of the Aug. 4 Thisweek Opinion page, have no shame? Collectively they seemingly deny the near unanimous votes of the U.S. Senate when it ap- proved the war against Al Qa- eda. Of course denying that Al Qaeda has been at war with the U.S. for afew decades would then seem like a reasonable out for those who now have no stomach for it. Surely Democrats who pro- pose a "Department of Peace" are willing to carefully articu- late how this department would appease our enemies who have declared their willingness to eliminate all "infidels." I can agree with Mr. Skog that the government needs to get out of the business of pro- viding homes for those who are able to work, but won't. As far as Chuck Erickson, the one whose name was sul- lied without justification, those whose shameless attacks are so void of the truth; owe him an apology. Eagan man sentenced in parakeet's death Bird was decapitated during an argument by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS An Eagan man who tore the head off his girlfriend's parakeet during an argument last year has been sentenced to 30 days in jail. Nathan David Andersen, 25, also received two years of probation and was ordered to undergo chemical dependency evaluation and treatment. In addition, he will be evalu- ated for domestic violence is- sues and required to attend a program if necessary, Da- kota County Attorney James Backstrom said. "This was a domestic -vio- lence related dispute that re- sulted in violence against an innocent pet," he said. According to police, Andersen was at his Eagan home with his friend and his live-in girlfriend on Nov. 26, 2006. All three had been drinking. When Andersen's girlfriend went to bed, the friend told Andersen he and the girlfriend had been having a sexual relationship. Andersen then woke up his girlfriend and the two began arguing. During the argument, Andersen allegedly kicked over the birdcage, grabbed the parakeet and tore off -its head, killing the bird, the criminal See Sentenced, 14A 07 Ram 11111«.r NB viuminer- 5 7 Herni wflh MDSAmproved Fuel, Auto, Air, CD Pia (Seat, Locks, Mirrors, Windows), Trader Tow a1 1 :171L�v.:0.4 MSRP Rebate.... Discs�n '2,000 down, - i^ payment & a $ t. �'2� V down, ptus 1^ payment & tk. c ,359 4dr. LWB, Touring, 3.8L,$16, 6-cyl, 35,286 mi. 13160 s n volunteers: kidsnkinship.org. Sentenced/from 1A Eagan police were called to the scene for a domestic dis- pute at 3:34 a.m. The girlfriend told police that she hadn't per- sonally felt threatened by An- dersen but that she was upset about what happened to her bird. Andersen was arrested and charged with animal cruelty, , • nesota in 2001. Backstrom said he is pleased with Andersen's sentence. "It warranted strong sanc- tions, and I believe he received them," he said. "This was a vi- olent act. It's hard to imagine anybody lashing out with such anger at a defenseless bird in a cage." Erin Johnson is at eagan. an. it grade parent meeting, 5 p.m. Sept. 11: fourth, fifth and sixth - grade parent meeting, 6 p.m. Harriet Bishop Elementary School Aug. 30: Meet your teacher open house K-6, 4-5 p.m. Sept. 13: Back to school night for parents in Linden, Maple and Norway Pine, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sept. 13: Back to school night for parents in Red Oak, River Birch and Willow, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Hidden Valley Elementary School Aug. 29: first -grade open house, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 30: Meet your teacher open house, p.m. • William Byrne Elementary School Sept. 6: sixth -grade parent infor- mation night, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 11: fourth -grade parent in- formation night, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 11: fifth -grade parent in- formation night, 7:15 p.m. Sept. 13: Kindergarten parent information night, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17: second -grade parent in- formation night, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17: third -grade parent in- formation night, 7:15 p.m. Sept. 19: first -grade parent infor- mation night, 6:30 p.m. Early Childhood Special Education Sept. 6: Open house, 5-7 p.m. 5yyz 3/0? Council takes look at initial budget GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Eagan residents can expect to see a moderate property tax increase in 2008. The Eagan City Council took its first official look at the overall 2008 budget pic- ture at its Aug. 14 meeting in preparation for setting the preliminary tax levy for the coming year at its Sept. 4 meeting. Once the preliminary tax levy is set, it cannot be raised, but can be lowered before the final budget is approved in December. The report adopted by the City Council at the meeting calls for a 4.9 percent property tax increase, which would add about $1.1 million to the city's budget of $26 million that is affected by the levy. COUNCIL: TO PAGE 18A FALL SPORTS PREVIEW IN THIS WEEK'S ISSUE SD. • Heplaceme SENIOR DISCOUNTS • Bay & Bo TripleTherm • Vinyl & St Fascia, So a • Patio & E BBB • Re-R • Residential Tow • Professional Ex • Complete Clean -Up LOWER 1 -zzfiEATING 1 www.mnwindowa FREE ESTI Licensed • Bonded • Insured • 952-888- EAGAN Divisive development likely to get go-ahead Neighbors feared traffic inci ease from Rademacher's at Diffley Marketplace BY MEGGEN LINDSAY Pioneer Press An Eagan grocery store pro- ject that incited a protracted debate among neighbors, elect- ed officials and developers for almost two years is about to become a done deal. With little discussion, the City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to settle a lawsuit brought by the developers of the proposed Rademacher's Fresh Market store and other retail buildings at the Diffley Market- place complex. The project's controversy centers on access to the planned retail development, with neighbors opposed to the use of Daniel Drive, a city street. Incensed about a potential increase in retail traffic on side streets where children live, residents crowded meetings at City Hall, signed petitions and posted lawn signs last year. But under the proposed set- tlement, Daniel Drive will become a one-way entrance to the site, with no exiting traffic. In addition, Diffley Road will have a three-quarter access to the development, with no left turns going out. The settlement is contingent DIVISIVE DEVELOPMENT, 3B tainer in the credit union's lobby. A surveillance tape showed a juvenile boy taking apart the container and putting items in his pockets. Au frc lef Th ba CONTACT US: DAKO Meggen Lindsay covers Eagan and Apple Valley, 651-228-5260, mlindsay@ pioneerpress.com Frederick Melo covers county govern- ment, safety, Hastings and Farmington, 651-228-2172, fmelo@pioneerpress.com Maricella Miranda covers Burnsville, JUST BE YOU CAN' DOESN'T M EAh HAVE GOO RARE & E DIAMONDS 9955 LYNDALE AN, (952)881-8862 • wn HouRs: MoN-THUR ONE LOCATIC 22A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 - www.mnSun.com In the Community, With the Community, For the Communi Storm FROM PAGE 1 A Elvendahl lives on the 1800 block of Cinnabar Court in the Cedar Grove neighborhood, which was one of the hardest hit areas. He said to remove the amount of debris left in his yard by downed trees would cost around $5,000. Mayor Mike Maguire sympathized with Elvendahl and other residents but stood by the council's decision to leave cleanup of private property to homeowners. "Here in Eagan, we have a long tradi- tion of being a low -tax city because we have a focused menu of services and we do them very well," said Maguire. "You do that understanding that you could provide more services, but you rely on citizens or the private sector" to do them more efficiently. While residents pointed out that cities such as St. Paul and Bloomington were disposing of debris from private property, Maguire said cities such as Minneapolis and Inver Grove Heights were not. "Their City Council made a different decision and a different judgment call," said Maguire of Bloomington's decision, as Councilmember Paul Bakken also pointed out that city property taxes when comparing similar -valued homes were about 24 percent higher in Bloomington. Bloomington expects to spend up to $500,000 for debris removal. Maguire also said because some homeowners had already begun to clean up their yards, the council didn't feel it was fair to them to change policy in the middle of the cleanup process. "There are people who reached into their pocket, reached into their gas tanks and reached into their family schedules," said Maguire, adding that if the council changed policy there would likely be just rj SCOTT THEISEN • SUN NEWSPAPERS Chris Elvendahl (left) and Rob Hermann pack pieces of fallen trees into a roll -off container in front of Larry Elvendahl's home on the 1800 block of Cinnabar Court Aug. 16 in Eagan. (For more photos, visit our online Photo Gallery at www.mnSun.com.) as many if not more people outraged by the decision. He also said he wasn't sure the city had the staff and the equipment necessary to complete the clean up. "City resources right now are as stretched as I believe they can get," said Maguire. Resident Margo Danner encouraged the council to help residents and consid- er creating a fund to address such events in the future. "Why is there no disaster fund in Eagan?" Danner asked. "This is not the first storm that hit Eagan like this and it won't be the last." Other help Because the public damage caused by this storm is likely to fall well below the federal mandated minimum of $6 mil- lion for it to be declared a disaster, resi- dents probably won't get any help for cleanup from the federal or state gov- ernment, as was the case during storms and floods in 1998 and 2000. Other than neighbors helping neigh- bors - which by all accounts has been hap- pening throughout the city in the wake of the storm - there are also a few other places those affected by the storm can turn. Seniors, shut-ins or the economically disadvantaged may wish to use the United Way's 2-1-1 system, which can be accessed by dialing those three numbers, to see if there is any assistance available to them. Locally, the Community Action Council is also lending what it can assist with cleanup and can be reach at 952-985-985-5300. The Dakota County Communi Development Agency may also ha some home improvement loan pr grams that could be useful and can b contacted at 651-675-4400. The city of Eagan has also poste other cleanup information and a list frequently asked questions on its we site at wwwcityofeagan.com. Late calls While another thunderstorm lat Monday night may have caused Eaga residents to awake from their slumbers late phone calls from the city als caused a disturbance. The city used its emergency phon message system to reach resident with information in the aftermath o the storm. The messages were sup- posed to reach residents between 8:30 and 9 p.m., but a glitch in the system caused some residents to get calls as late as 11 p.m. "It was a glitch that we hadn't consid- ered based on our past experiences with the system," said Police Chief Jim McDonald, as he and council members apologized for the error. City officials also said they would be looking into the problem to determine whether the system will be able to be used to communicate with residents should a more time -sensitive emergency message be needed. "The late calls were very annoying, but I hate to think what would have hap- pened if there was a lost child or some- thing like that," said Bakken. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth @acnpapers.com.) the Community, With the Community, For the Community www.mnSun.com -Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 21A _et us bring QUALITY and COMFORT to you • lower level Finish • Porches 8 Decks • Garages • Siding 8 Windows • Roofing • Major Remodels ('all now to schedule • Kitchen & Bath your indoor or • Additions 8 Second outdoor projects Stories 612-750-6654 QUALITY PLUS . CONSTRUCTION Bowled • Insured lit 120451411 www.OualityPlusConstructior .com A & J Painting Res. Int. Painting Specialists Wall covering removal/drywall *Ceiling Specialists* i Jim 612-338-1981 651-290-0637 GLOBE COMPANIES 6t2-12t4646 Lpr US FLOOR YOU: MASTER FLOORS MOBILE SHOWROOM FOR AFFORDABLE IN HOME SHOPPING S FLOOR YOU" ��� V Carpet - Vinyl - V.C.T. - Wood laminates - Rubber Flooring FREE ESTIMATES vier Contact Troy "The Flooring Guy" oars ,,,, 612.221.4646 Troymasterfloors@earthlink.net rOn Time Contractors, Inc l We Do it Better... And We Do It On Time! 1 1 WE FINISH BASEMENTS,' BUILD HOMES, ADDITIONS & PORCHES 1 Quality work at a Reasonable price Free Consultation, Estimate & Friendly Advice 952-443-3430 651-235-8972 (8am-7pm) www.OnTimeContractors.com Fully Insured References available with quote BC Lic# 20466034 Precision Air LLC offers newest technology in indoor air quality Precision Air LLC provides complete heating, ventilation and air conditioning products to the southern Twin Cities metro area. Under the leadership of owner Corey Sutton, Precision Air also offers duct cleaning, indoor air quality services, retrofit zoning and in -floor heating. Precision Air has been in business since 2004. The company prides itself on providing quality products and service for a reasonable price, with a business ethic that consumers deserve. level of efficiency. The 95% modulating furnace gas valve and blower motor not only will save you money in gas, but also in electricity. As a special promotion for its customers, Precision Air provides a free Honeywell Vision Pro Touch screen programmable thermostat with every purchase and installation of a York modulating furnace. Precision Air recently added Rotobrush duct cleaning to its list of services. Other products eat •um•s, two -stage air 4 Fix It + Replace It + Seal It + Tweak It No71 (952) 652-2012 ♦ Townhome Specialist ♦ No Job Too Small + Competitive Rates We Do It Now! We Do It Right! Lic# 20627728 1-877-3246737 I.877-ECHORES www.handemannnw.cnm Locally owned & operated Fully insured & Bonded Nomedront Cabinetrt9 I � Tttrvr,%vlg f-touses %vtto H-owt.es! • High Quality Construction & Design • Various Custom Faceframe & Frameless • Budget -Friendly Semi -Custom Options "We are in your neighborhood today! Call us to add our Quality to your home." www. homefrontcabinetry.com 952.736.3765 BBB T SPORTS Eagan boys to rely on defense PAGE 2 Eagan stands by cleanup policy Residents must deal with debris that fell on their own property GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS A powerful Aug. 11 storm that left thousands without power has also left some Eagan residents looking for a way to get rid of the debris it left behind. A number of residents showed up to a special City Council meeting Aug. 14 to ask the city for help. The answer they received is the city will help clear debris public rights of way, but residents have responsibility for their own private property. The council's answer, which followed policy already in place that was reaf- firmed by the council at an emergency meeting Monday, Aug. 13, didn't sit weir with some residents who showed up at City Hall the following day. "I'm so disappointed that Eagan isn't going to bat for the community," said Larry Elvendahl. STORM: TO PAGE 22A 2A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current - Thu WINDOWS - SIDIffi "Highest Quality Prod Now save $75 per window Minimum 3 or more windows • Tilt -in Cleaning • Insulated Glass • Maintenance Free • Lifetime Warranty Not valid with other otters. Premium Vinyl Siding ONLY $3999 complete 1 • Lifetime Warranty SALE I • 1 layer tear off • Tyvek Housewrap • Dumpster "based on 1.000 sq. ft. Not valid with other offers. r Bay & Bow Windows Starting At$ 2899 1 • Custom Sizes • Energy Efficient • Installed • Oak Seat • Birch Seat • Low E Argon 1 1 Not valid with other otters. `t) b7 Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 3A Eagan man sentenced for beheading bird An Eagan man who pleaded guilty to beheading his girlfriend's parakeet will spend 30 days in jail. Nathan David Anderson, 25, was sentenced Wednesday, Aug. 8, in Dakota County Court to 30 days in jail and two years probation after pleading guilty to animal cruelty in May. The charges stemmed from a November 2006 incident in which police were called after a dispute between Anderson and his girl- friend during which Anderson knocked over the cage and ripped the head off her parakeet. "It was shocking to see this level of violence against a defenseless pet," said County Attorney James Backstrom. "That constitutes felony animal cruelty under the law today." As part of the sentencing, Anderson will also be forced to undergo chemical dependency eval- uation, as he also had a prior alco- hol -related conviction and was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, Backstrom said. — Compiled by Grant Boelter Aa tnsru3-nub netsi d tnuomszoR ,11SIIsV slggA 4A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current County yout Youth, mentors serve community through RAIR program KASSIE PETERMANN • SUN NEWSPAPERS A celebration of community involve- ment is planned by a RAIR group of adults and youth in Apple Valley Aug. 17. No, this is not a rare group. These vol- unteers are members of RAIR, a men- toring program for adults and youth, ages 10-15, who work together on com- munity service projects. "The point of RAIR is to help chil dren recognize their true value in th world," said Executive Director Mary J DeLise of Apple Valley, who founded th program in December 2005. "I truly believe that if kids see tha about themselves, they will make bette life choices." RAIR is an acronym for Respect fo all people, Accountability for one's actions, Integrity in all acts, Responsibility for oneself and to others, which DeLise said are the core values of the group. Visit us online a for extended ne 12A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current -Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007 - www.mnSun.com Woodlands FROM PAGE 1 A They will have the chance to exhibit their work at a showing 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23, at the Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. "It's very personalized," said Chabera of her work, which is influ- enced by the women in her life and by the WHAT'S NEXT scenery of her former place of What: Celebrate residence in Dakota Woodlands Corpus Christi, Artists reception Texas. One of her When: 6:30-8 p.m. paintings is Thursday, Aug. 23 focused on moth- Where: Eagan Art ers, with portraits House, 3981 of the Virgin Lexington Ave. Mary and her Information: 651- daughter, who is 686-9134 going to have a baby, as well as imagery of Mother Earth. "My art's kind of interesting because you can look at it all kinds of different ways and see something different," she said, as she provided the art on the flyer to promote the event. "We decided to do this to kind of give an ego boost to our people," said Carmen Seaberg, the education coordi- nator at Dakota Woodlands. "Hopefully it will open the eyes of the public to Dakota Woodlands and our women and show how talented they are." As the Art House has been conduct- ing classes at the shelter for the past few years, women and children who have since moved on have also been invited to participate. The classes are paid for in part by grants from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council and the McKnight Foundation. "They're excited about coming back and seeing their art in the show as well," said Seaberg. Janet Bignell said the art classes have helped bring her 7-year-old son Joey out of his shell and they are both excited about the artists' reception. "He was my shadow for six years, so this was kind of a transition," she said. "He does express himself through his art. It really expresses his happiness, his sadness and his fear." "We just really wanted to offer an opportunity for these artists to show off a little bit," said Julie Anderson, direc- tor of the Eagan Art House. "They also have a phenomenal instructor," she said of Mel Benkert, who teaches '-he weekly classes at Dakota Woodlands. If people are interested in buying the work at the art show, the artists may choose to sell them and then donate the profits to Dakota Woodlands. Residents of the shelter will also bake cookies and other snacks for the reception. Anderson said the Art House's rela- tionship with Dakota Woodlands has been mutually beneficial. "It's been a really good partnership and we hope to continue it." (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth@acnpapers.com.) www.mnSun.com -Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 11A 1 1 i (651)770-5570 Simply The Best For Less! ANY SIZE 189. INSTALLED WHITE DOUBLE - HUNG REPLACMENT WINDOW Windows, Siding, Soffit, Fascia, Doors, Leaf Proof Gutters, Roofs Storm Damage Repair CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 1 Showroom: 2211 11thAve E.. No. St. Paul 6 mo 0% Financing Available License #20356841 "We are totally satisfied with our windows & siding!". Mr & Mrs, Sonnenfeld az€dc ,S' www.189WINDOW.com IISS OUR HUGE R ILOWOUT" R AUGUST 81ST 7AM - 7PM Time right to shine for Women of Woodlands Eagan Art House will play host to show featuring art work from Dakota Woodlands residents GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS The women and children of Dakota Woodlands have been expressing their artistic selves for years, but now it's time to show the public. "I can't wait," said Laura Chabera, a resident of Dakota Woodlands, which is a short-term shelter for women in Eagan. Chabera and two of her sons have been staying at Dakota Woodlands since she returned home earlier this year after leg surgery to find that the house she had been renting had been foreclosed upon. During that time, Chabera who went to the University of Minnesota to study art and her sons Austin, 12, and Josh, 10, have taken advantage of classes offered by the Eagan Art House at the shelter. WOODLANDS: TO PAGE 12A LOOK INSIDE THIS SECTION FOR MONEY -SAVING INSERTS selective - r� If your spouse won't listen t about their hearing loss... pl bring them to me! THIS IS PERSONAL INVITATION for you to receive a no obligati consultation A& HEARING SERVICES - We promi experien professio educatio Callal near yo Burnsville Inver Grove Heights Plymouth Shoreview K 14A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current —Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007 — www.mnSun.com PUBLIC SAFETY Eagan firefighter injured The Eagan Fire Department battled a house fire Aug. 11 that led to a trip to the hospital for one firefighter. Firefighters responded to a call to a home on 1783 Turquoise Trail at 2:08 p.m. Upon arrival, crews found the fire had started in an attached garage and spread to the home, Fire Chief Mike Scott said. While battling the fire, the ceiling partially collapsed on one firefighter, who was brought to Regions Hospital, treated and released, Scott said. The home is considered a total loss, and the state fire marshal is investigat- ing the cause. About 50 firefighters responded, as firefighters from Mendota Heights and Apple Valley also helped. Eagan Police report These are some of the selected calls from the Eagan police log for Aug. 2-8: Burglary: A laptop computer, Bluetooth headset and $1,200 were stolen Aug. 4 from an apartment on the 3400 block of Golfview Drive. Golf clubs were stolen Aug. 7 from a business on the 1300 block of Cliff Road. Theft: A pipe -threader valued at $4,200 was reported stolen Aug. 2 from a construction site on the 600 block of River Ridge Parkway. A representative of a business on the 2000 block of Cliff Lake road reported Aug. 8 that an employee stole $1,200 from the business. www.mnSun.com - Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007 - Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current 13A BULLETIN rl BOARD 952-392-6888 ICE DAMS? WE STEAMmtt REASONABLE RATES, INSURED rooftodeck.com 952-352-9986 THE JOY OF LEARNING Pre-K Early Reading Skills Peaceful Heights Montessori School Call 651-451-1498 DECK CLEANING & STAINING Professional, Prompt, Guaranteed Results 763-559-1832 North 952-352-9986 West 651-699-3504 South rooftodeck.com 10% off with mention of this ad. Want A Free New Outfit? SPORTS Millers fall, but qualify for state PAGE 22A Youth housing site identified in Eagan City, county targeting Cedar Grove redevelopment district site GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS A facility for homeless youth may now have a place to call home in Eagan. The Eagan City Council reviewed a preliminary con- cept plan at its Aug. 9 meeting for a youth supportive housing complex that would be run by the Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA). The CDA and the city have identified a site in the Cedar Grove Redevelopment District at the intersection of Cedar Grove Parkway and Gold Trail. The area the CDA is targeting for the development contains a duplex already owned and operated by the CDA and an adjacent parcel of land owned by the city of Eagan. After the presentation, the council voted to have staff work on a letter of intent to sell the prop- erty to the CDA, which would be contingent on the COUNCIL: TO PAGE 14A 2A Apple Valley, Rosemount & Eagan Sun -Current - Thursday, Aug. I6, 2( 1 f/ In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Eagan adds a farmers market Grand Oak Farmers Market to be open Thursdays through fall GRANT BRELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Those in the Eagan area looking to buy locally grown produce and flowers have another place to turn. The Grand Oak Farmers Market will oen n WHAT'S NEXT Thursday, Aug. 16, at the intersection of highways 149 and 55. The market is being sponsored by the Grand Oak Business Park and the park's owners, Interstate Partners. The market will feature 10 ven- dors who offer dif- ferent products, from flowers to apples to sweet corn, and will be open until Oct. 25. It is the second farmers market new to the city this summer, as the city of Eagan also opened Market Fest this sum- mer at the city's central park, which fea- tures live music and an art display by the Eagan Art House. Market Fest runs 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 29. What: Grand Oak Farmers Market When: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Aug. 16-Oct. 25 Where: Grand Oak Business Park at the intersection of highways 55 and 149 in Eagan Information: 651- 406-8050 Karen Ryan, the property manager at Grand Oak, said Interstate Partners came up with the idea for the new market as a way of reaching out to the community, as well as a way to serve its tenants and their employees. The Grand Oak market will also feature live music by local band Dixie Cups and the Li'l Darlin's. "We're trying to figure out ways to get people there," said Ryan, who has been busy distributing flyers for the market around town. "We think that the vendors will speak for themselves once we get people out there." As more farmers markets have begun to pop around the metro area, Interstate Partners enticed farmers to participate in their market by giving them free space with a refundable deposit to ensure that they show up each week and $20 gas cards for each trip they make. They are also offering employees at the business park $3 vouchers for the first week. "Local is starting to be popular with a lot of folks," said Charlie Johnson, one of the market's vendors. Johnson runs an apple orchard near Hastings and was called upon to gather vendors for the market. Fresh meats, cheese, flowers, raspberries, jams, sweet corn, pastries, fresh vegetables, vinegar, spices and baked goods will be among the items sold at the market, as Johnson said he searched for a diverse crowd of vendors, including local Hmong growers. "It's all going to be fresh," he said. "Much of it will be picked that morning. Hopefully people will come out and sup- port it." In the Community, With the Community. For the Community Council FROM PAGE 1A development application for the proj- ect. The facility would serve county youth, ages 18 to 24 who have aged out of foster care or have another circum- stance that might put them at risk for being homeless. "I think this is awesome," said Councilmember Cyndee Fields. "I think we have a huge gap with kids leaving foster care and not having a place to go." CDA Executive Director Mark Ulfers said the site is attractive because it is close to major lines of transit and offers a number of employment opportunities for residents that are within walking distance. "It would be near a lot of amenities that projects like this need to thrive," he said. The county would be required to pay the city an annual fee for using the land that would not be as much as property taxes that a private landowner would pay, but the project fits with the city's plans for the Cedar Grove district, said Community Development Director Jon Hohenstein. "Within the criteria and the plans for the district, the council did lay out the criteria of affordability," he said. Mayor Mike Maguire said residents of the city and the county might actual- ly realize a savings with the project, as the aim is to give residents the tools to succeed in finding jobs and eventually permanent homes so they don't need assistance from the county in the future. "We pay more in a number of ways for not doing these types of things," said Maguire. Mike Wold, chair of the Metropolitan Interfaith Coalition for Affordable Housing's south metro chapter, spoke in favor of the development at the meeting. "It's kind of tough when you don't have an address to get hired, even if it's at McDonald's," he said. (You are invited to comment about this story on our website at www.mnsun.com and/or write a letter to the editor at sun- currentsouth (aacnpapers. com.) ews never stops isweek taqan www.thisweek-online.com Meeting the neighbors Photo In /.rm .1 lot= Eagan City Council Member Meg Tilley meets her new neighbors in the Steeplechase neighborhood, where she recently purchased a home, as they celebrated National Night Out on Tuesday night. Nearly 150 Eagan neighborhoods celebrated National Night Out this year. 2A August 11, 2007 THISWEEK 2A°4(7 MODEL POWERTRAI N �mceum 1-SSS-7IS-I EgUl 07 Grand Caravan SXT Power Doors, Power Seat, Power Wind/Locks/Mirrors, Quad Seats - Stow-N-Go, Rear Air/Heating, Aluminum Wheels, Sunscreen, AntiLock/Traction Control, Roof Rack '2,000 down, plus 1' payment & lie, =496 SO down, plus 1 ° payment & lic. _ $272 07 Charger sinatitil Power Sunroof & Boston Acoustic Sound, A/C, Auto, DOHC-24 Valve, Powe (Windows, Locks, Minors). CD Player Power Seat. Antilock-ESP South and MSRP $28,605 Rebate -$4,000 Discount-$3,610 Owne• rLoyally -$1,00000 $19,995 Appointment Road 07 Gran ALL THE FEATURES OF Power lrftgate. Rear Sea Power Driver & Pass. 2,000 down, ph SO down, plus T 07 Dakota Club Cab Auto, V6 Au Conditioning. CD Player AVAA Golf fundraiser will benefit crime prevention group`" The Eagan Citizen's Crime Prevention Association offers funds, support for police programs by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Eagan Citizen's Crime Prevention Association has actively supported the Eagan Police Department for the past 25 years, whether providing funding for the department's Harley Davidson motorcycles or offering rewards for crime information. The ECCPA is hoping to bring more visibility to its cause with its annual golf tournament fundraiser, sched- uled Sept. 7 at Valleywood Golf Course in Apple Valley. The shotgun start will be at 1 p.m., and there will be food, games and prizes for partici- pants. The mission of the ECCPA is to assist the Ea- gan Police Department in its efforts to prevent, solve and reduce crime in Eagan. It also strives to provide assistance to victims and families. The annual golf tourna- ment is the only source of funding for the nonprofit group, which is hoping to have a record turnout this year. "We're really trying to gen- erate a renewed interest in this tournament," ECCPA Presi- dent Faye Wallsten said. "This is it. This is the only fund rais- ing we do." See Golf, 5A 06 DODGE RAM1500 1 %ask 05 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA 4dr, Manual, 2.5L 5- $4 s 925 cyl, 13,940 mi. ssosae 03 DODGE CARAVAN 03 DODGE RAM 1500 OE Golf/fropt44r '✓�z" iv Wallsten hopes offering gr silent auction items and gi at certain holes will ent people to participate. In a dition, some holes will h edible treats and others w have contests for prizes. Silent auction items i elude gift certificates for ar and business hotel stays, a custom -ma golf club, St. Paul Saints tick- ets, gas and grocery coupons and wine baskets. A valuable prize will also be offered for a hole -in -one contest. Money raised at the tour- nament will help the EC - CPA support various police programs, such as Eagan's motorcycle unit, for which it provided the start-up money in 2003. In addition, ECCPA uses funds to offer rewards for information that helps solve crimes, such as the $1,000 re- ward it's currently offering for information on the Woodland Elementary School vandalism that occurred last month. Eagan Police Chief Jim McDonald remembers a case in the early 90s where a man was hit by a car on Dodd Road and the driver fled the scene. The ECCPA offered a $5,000 reward for informa- tion, which generated a tip that led to the arrest and con- viction of the driver. "That's likely a case that would have gone unsolved if we hadn't offered a reward," he said. "(The ECCPA) is re- ally committed to help mak- ing Eagan safe." The group also provided funding to start the police chaplain program and the eat department's honor guard, fts and it purchased a vintage ice car — a copy of the city's first d- squad car, — that appears in Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. Principal/from lA and the seasons after living two blocks from the beach in California." Benson has also been the principal at two metro -area schools: Oak Grove Elemen- tary in Bloomington and Lincoln Center Elementary in South St. Paul. In addi- tion, he worked at the Min- nesota Department of Edu- cation for a few years in the mid-'90s. After 14 years of work- ing in Minnesota, he went back to California in 2006 to become principal of So- lana Highlands Elementary School before applying for the Pilot Knob position. He said he knew of Pilot Knob's solid reputation and is looking forward to being part of its success. "In education circles, Pi- lot Knob is very well respect- ed," he said. "It's a school of high expectations, excellent staff and quality students. To be able to help continue that tradition is really excit- in Benson is someone who embraces new challenges, as evidenced by his hobbies of surfing, sailing, hiking and running. He has competed in five Ironman triathlons, and he and some friends recently climbed Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contigu- ous United States. Being physically active helps him perform better at work, he said. "It's pretty hard to keep up with kindergarten stu- dents, so you need all the energy you can get," he said, laughing. Benson describes himself as a positive, upbeat person who is passionate about chil- dren and education. He said he is looking forward to the first day of school and meeting his new students and their parents, and he intends to make him- self very visible in the com- munity. "We're a community school, and we want the community to always feel welcome to come and take part in any programs and activities we have here," he said. "If anybody would like to visit, we have open doors and open arms." Benson acknowledges that he has big shoes to fill, tak- ing over for Byron Schwab. "His leadership and help from the teachers have really made it a respected school community," he said. "It's going to be a great place to work and learn." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek c@ecm-inc. com. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community OUR VIEWPOINT Eagan charter not needed right now Looking toward the future and preparing for foreseeable challenges is smart. The proposed Eagan Charter contains such foresight. However, the city of Eagan and its elected officials are making similar preparations, which is one reason why the Sun - Current cannot endorse this version of the charter. First off, it needs to be noted that this charter is a different proposal than what came before voters in 2004 and was defeated by a 4-to-1 margin. It should also be noted that only two of the original Charter Commission members remain from that time. The original commission and proposal came about through petitioners who were angry with what was going on with their city government and felt a Charter Commission would give a voice to the public. Today's version of the Charter Commission, while still wanting to give more power to dissat- isfied members of the public, will tell you that they have no problem with the current City Council or the way the city is run. They will tell you that the charter is a protection from possible future abuses of power by the city government. It is also pertinent to note that this charter does not have the same content, as there is no ward system established as in the last one. Therefore, voters need again to re-examine the content of the charter. Voting no simply because it was defeat- ed last time around is not reasonable. The 2007 version of the charter still falls short of being the answer for the city of Eagan. This charter offers three suggestions: changing the city administrator's position to city manager, the mandatory establishment of an open space preservation fund with a pro- vision that the city cannot sell parkland unless approved by voters in a referendum, and the establishment of a five-year capital improvement plan. Eagan City Administrator Tom Hedges has been with the city since the early 1970s and from accounts of those on both sides of this issue, he has done a tremendous job. Both sides have also said the City Council, over the years, has given Hedges the power to operate more like a city manager than an administrator. He will retire one day. The next person may not work as well in the role and a city as large as Eagan might be better off to change the position to city manager. Most larger cities operate with a city manager that has more freedom from the City Council to make decisions. But the City Council has the power to make this change without a charter being established. We would like to think that the city's elected officials will have the wisdom to make such a decision if it makes the most sense for the city or if that's clearly what the public wants. The city seems to be func- tioning fine under its current model. On the issue of open space, the city is in the middle of establishing an open space preservation fund. We believe the establishment of this fund is going far enough to meet future concerns. From the feeling we get from the residents of Eagan, they also won't be electing anyone who won't look out for open space, which will ensure that this plan progresses. As for the capital improvement plan, it's something that the city already does, and quite frankly, any city would be crazy not to plan that far ahead. The city would also likely face a penalty against its bond rating if it didn't. It doesn't seem like a realistic concern that the city would go down a dif- ferent path in the future. We are also concerned with the lack of communication the Charter Commission had with the public before delivering the charter. While the state sets the timelines after the charter is delivered, it would have been beneficial for the public to have more time to digest the issue. The Charter Commission should have made an effort to make its intentions clear to voters much earlier, which we believed would have also helped their cause. Asking people to vote for change doesn't come easy. The day may come when it's time for Eagan to adopt a charter, as most larger cities have. However, Nov 6, 2007, is not that day. What's your opinion? We'd like to know. Please write to: Sun - Current South, 10917 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344. You may also e-mail us at suncurrentsouth@acnpa- pers.com or fax 952-392-6868. In the Community, With the Community, For the Community TO THE EDITOR AGE not ever charter for Eagan was an Rotary this week. I question: "If the charter ted this November, how you continue to bring it e voters?" Eric Hedtke, Charter Commission t Minneapolis voted 22 coming a charter city. city of Eagan $40,000 to cial election ballot and nd time we've considered o spend $880,000 to get the We have better ways to dollars to benefit Eagan. mmission is out of touch nts of Eagan and we can- . Please join me in reject- ed charter for Eagan this to no charter. Mark Bonstrom Eagan rter or of the group forcing ction has a lot to do with 1 this pro -charter group is to improve anything in ity has been noted as the to live in this country. do anything to jeopardize ning governing process? , let's stay involved and ur state legislators clean nd include a way to stop roup from being able to ctions on us anytime they at's right, as citizens, we e right to vote on whether charter question to end ll. Scary to think, we don't t to vote to end this non- esn't sound like any type rm of government to me. rter Nov 6. Roberta Ryan Eagan harter again ore than 80 percent of ejected changing our very m of government to a less MORE LETTERS: TO PAGE 14A efficient charter government. What made sense then still makes sense today. Eagan is a near perfect example of a fiscally responsible city. Eagan spends less per capita than most cities of our size, but still provides excellent city services. In contrast, the tax rate in most cities under a charter form of government reflect higher taxes. Why support an unnecessary, unelected, additional layer of govern- ment? Eagan residents rejected this idea once, and should do it again. And yet, if you can believe it, charter supporters actually claim that forcing this election on short notice is somehow saving the taxpayers money. This bla- tantly false claim is extremely frustrat- ing. This election will cost the taxpayers $40,000 in unanticipated expenses. This unplanned, rushed election proves just how reckless and expensive a charter form of government can be. There is no benefit to adding this unelected layer of government to our city. Their latest crusade has already cost the taxpayers of Eagan greatly - $40,000 in direct costs, plus the time our city staff has been forced to spend on this rushed election. It is important that everyone gets out and votes. Cyndee Fields Eagan City Council member Legislators responsible To the editor: I am amazed that we have not heard more from local DFLers about the school levy referendums for districts 191 and 197. In recent years, every time the schools held a referendum they blamed our local Republican legislators. This past year the DFL, including Rep. Sandy Masin and Sen. Jim Carlson, controlled both the House and the Senate. While they criticized their pred- ecessors for not funding education enough, leading to levies and property tax increases, they seem to take no responsibility themselves when the levies continue. Maybe it is because the education bills they passed favored Minneapolis and not the suburbs. When you vote Nov 6, remember Masin and Carlson are responsible for any resulting tax increase. Terry Yacono Eagan schlitzgusto.coin In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Semi trailer explosion injures one GRANT BOELTER • SUN NEWSPAPERS Fire inspectors are trying to figure out what caused a truckload of metal can lids to explode the morning of Thursday, Oct. 18, at an Eagan trucking company. Eagan firefighters were called to Dart Transit at 10:18 a.m. to put out a fire that started when a semi -trailer sud- denly exploded and injured a man doing electrical work on the trailer at the busi- ness on 850 Lone Oak Road. The worker was treated at a local clin- ic over concern about materials getting in his eyes, but was released later that day, said Fire Sgt. Pat Diloia. "We did a pretty fast knock down," said Diloia, as Eagan firefighters along with a few from Mendota Heights were able to control the fire in about 15 min- utes. The trailer was totaled from the explosion, but there was very little dam- age to the building, he said. Inver Grove Heights firefighters stood by at the Eagan stations during the incident. DiIoia said investigators, which include a state fire marshal and staff from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, have yet to determine why the trailer exploded, as chemicals were not involved. He said they are look- ing at the possibility that the way the can lids were stacked played a role in the blast, adding that Dart Transit has been helpful and cooperative in the investiga- tion. These pages are provided as a forum to debate ideas of interest and importance in our communities. Signed letters should be no longer than 250 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers and address for verification purposes. Submitted letters and columns become the property of Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and publish them in any format, including online. IT US ONLINE AT WWW.MNSUN.COM • © 2007 SUN NEWSPAPERS • PAGE 6A EWPOINT ford, Gillette top ear's candidates hool District 197 EAGAN SUN CURRENT In the Community, With the Community, For the Community Jeff Coolman, Group Publisher — VP jcoolman@acnpapers.com 952-392-6807 Peggy Bakken, Executive Editor suneditor@acnpapers.com 952-392-6822 750 Vol. 32, No. 43 In the Community, With the Com Cities vs. MAC lawsuit settled Agreement could million settlement with Metropolitan Airports mean relief for Commission. The settlement could formally end a 10-year-fight more than 600 over airport noise if approved by the Federal Aviation Association. Eagan homes "We've been involved in this lawsuit for two years. The resi- dents of northeast Eagan have STEVEN PEASE AND GRANT BOELTER been dealing with airport noise SUN NEWSPAPERS for decades," said Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire. "I'm confident More than 600 Eagan home- and hopeful that the long -await - owners may see some relief ed, anticipated and well - from airport noise under a set- deserved relief from airport tlement approved by the three noise in that part of the city is cities that brought a lawsuit coming to fruition." against the Metropolitan The settlement Airports Commission. The Eagan City Council fol- Under the proposed settle - lowed the lead of the Richfield ment, homeowners who live and Minneapolis city councils Oct. 16 and joined a nearly $130 NOISE: TO PAGE 22A ELECTION 2007 Voters Guide The Sun Newspapers Voters Guide is featured in this week's edition. The guide includes candidate profiles for city and school board races and information about school levy referendums PAGES 6A-19A 1314 HOUSE'S:. • Hassle Free • Any Condition • Cash Terms • Quick Closing In the Community,With the Community, For the Communi nsville singer donates voice to flood victims iser scheduled in St. Paul • EES • SUN NEWSPAPERS rnsville resident Pamela ke to see her hometown on news one morning last erged in floodwaters, she ted to help. So, next month, oing the most helpful thing of: singing about it. d 19, as much as 17 inches oured down upon the itoka-New Hartford area in hours, spilling rivers over and causing mass devasta- mpt to help those affected, innesota City native, will inings - A Benefit Concert t Minnesota" 4 to 10 p.m. 4, at O'Gara's, 164 Snelling . For a cover charge/dona- r/songwriter will perform, ends, the Minneapolis band n, Nathan Anderson and r Angry Men. any big plans but I said to only do what I can within aid McNeill, who has lived with her husband, Dugan, ars. "I hope to be pleasant - I'd love to raise $20,000 - n or not, I don't know. I hat to expect because I've is before." Linings fundraiser will a silent auction. McNeill tions have been very gen- ating items, such as: two tly-unreleased Cities 97 , a wildly popular annual Pamela McNeill album produced by a local radio station; a $600 park bench from Landscape Brands of Winona; a specially -auto- graphed photograph of new age musi- cian Yanni; and a night's stay at The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast in Winona, among others. All proceeds will go directly to the Red Cross of Greater Winona. Beth Moe, executive director of the organization, said any help is much appreciated by those who lost everything in the flood. "Some communities had water in the basement, some had sewage in the base- ment and houses have been, in fact, washed away," she said. "It runs the entire gamut. People were being rescued by boats from their rooftop." Amy Jo Marks was one Minnesota City residents who was rescued by boat. She woke up in the middle of the night Aug. 18 to 4 feet of water in her back- yard. SINGER: TO PAGE 24A by replace your sashes when you don't need to? • THERMOPANES wners...IfYour House is 8 Years Old or Older...Let Us REPLACE Your FOGGED or DAMAGED THERMOPANES at 113 the COST of WINDOW REPLACEMENT! \_k tion for you. We provide complete Glass and Mirror Service FOGGED? BROKEN? MOISTURE IN BETWEEN? FREE IN -HOME ESTIMATES AVAILABLE ►SS & MIRROR OUTLET 0921 Excelsior Blvd • Hopkins 952-933-3223 www.glassandmirroroutlet.com )URS: M-F 8am-S:30pm Sat 9am-1 pm Cm K Halloween comes alive at Community Center Annual Halloween Hodgepodge is Sunday, Oct. 28 by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The Eagan Community Center will be filled with treats, sweets, games and goblins from 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 28, during the city's an- nual Halloween Hodgepodge event. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes for the event, which will feature games, crafts, dancing, a scavenger hunt and trick -or -treating. Halloween Hodgepodge has some new additions this year, including a costume pa- rade at 5 p.m. in the gym that will put all of the evening's creative characters on display. A scavenger hunt called the Forbidden Forest Wizard Challenge will lead partici- pants through the woods out- side of the Community Center. Twelve stations will require hunters to say or do something to receive a gem, and once all gems have been collected, the hunter will receive a prize. Ghostly Game stations will be set up featuring 12 to 15 different carnival games for prizes, as well as face painting, Creepy Crafts and Boo Bingo. The Monster Mash, a dance featuring a D.J., will be held in the Oasis, and Scary Sensa- tions will allow participants to touch and identify various ghoulish items. See Halloween, 7A /2 7/ 07 DODGE CHARGER ideSiver3etalsic. Rauto. $19 2 607 Mi 13232 urvey/from lA Most businesses said they had been at their current site for eight years, with 12 percent say- ing they were new and 12 per- cent saying they had been here for more than 20 years. "That's a very stable dynam- ic," Morris said. Nearly half said they chose to locate in Eagan because of the customer base here. "In general, it's the kind of residents in the community or nearby the community that ends to bring those businesses to the city," he said. The businesses surveyed showed a very high rate of sta- bility, with 80 percent indicating they will be here for at least the next 10 years. Ninety percent rated the business climate in Eagan as excellent or good, a "stunning" result, Morris said. "That's among the highest in the metro area," he said. By a two -to -one margin, businesses indicated that their number of employees in the past two years had increased rather than decreased, and 80 percent said the labor pool available in F.aaa THISWEEK October 27, 2007 7A Most said they are pleased with the value and quality of city services they receive for the taxes they pay, with 65 percent answering positively and only 16 percent answering negative- ly. That puts Eagan among the top 10 percent of communities in the metro area. "Businesses, which tend to be a very, very rough group when it comes to taxes ... and tend to be very conservative with their evaluations, are highly pleased with what they're getting from the city for the taxes they're pay- ing," Morris said. Ninety-two percent of busi- nesses surveyed said they believe the city is moving in the right di- rection, which Morris said is the highest percentage seen among metro area suburbs. "In general, this is a strong report in terms of where the business community is current- ly," he said. "It likes what the city is doing; it feels like it's be- ing well -served by the city, and it's very confident about the (city's) future direction." Erin Johnson is at eagan. thisweek@ecm-inc.com. 8A October 27, 2007 THISWEEK DANIEL BRENGMAN, DDS, PA Cosmetic and Family Dentistry Preventive Care Tooth Colored Fillings Crowns Bridges Veneers Teeth Whitening Nitrous Oxide Evening Hours Digital X-Rays Up to 90% Less Radiation Preferred Provider For Most Plans 2121 Cliff Drive, Suite 100 651-905-9090 posine paws Professional annual photos with your pets 3 Big Weekends Saturday, Sunday Nov. 3-4*, 10-11, 17-18 9a.m. to+p.m. $49.99 Early Bird Special, Nov. 3-4 $5off first weekend Professional Plaza 1501 Hwy 13 E, Burnsville (building to the east of MVHS) No Reservations needed! eh 5I* Le ic/ a / 24, , 7 Business survey reflects well on city tY Survey of 300 businesses shows satisfaction with location, labor pool by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS A survey of 300 randomly selected businesses in Eagan shows that most are happy they set up shop here. "We're gratified that the results from Eagan business owners confirm what we've seen happening on the ground, that Eagan is a great place to grow a business," Eagan City Administrator Tom Hedges said. Preliminary results of the survey, conducted by Deci- sion Resources, were recently presented to the City Council. Full results and analysis will be available sometime next month. According to the survey, the most prevalent type of business in Eagan is retail, which describes about one in four businesses in the city. Consumer services, such as accountants and lawyers, make up about 16 percent of the city's businesses, followed by business services and man- ufacturers, which each make up about 9 percent. Distribu- tors and restaurants round out the list with 8 percent each. The large amount of re- tail businesses in Eagan — 23 percent sets it . apart from other communities in Dakota County, Bill Morris of Deci- sion Resources said. See Survey, 7A 07 DODGE CALIBER FAA limes Auto `O.615 M 41 21A 07 DODGE CHARGER -888-786-8622 adr Wags, Taring, 4.0L. S 19,925 �. Meg , Auto,16,513 Mi 13233 07 DODGE MAGNUM StSXT ;dA Silve{ e�lMAuto$1 Q'925 19,407 MI 13185 by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Don't be alarmed by the smoke and sirens emanating from the Cedarvale Mall on Saturday morning. Eagan's not under attack; it's just pretending it is. Several agencies will con- duct a simulation exercise Oct. 27 to prepare to handle a large-scale disaster should it occur in Eagan. Local public safety agencies such as Eagan Police and Fire and Dakota County Emergen- cy Preparedness will join the FBI, Homeland Security and the National Guard in the ex- ercise, which will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at noon. During the simulation, the agencies will be responding to a plane crash, a National What if a plane crashed in Eagan. City, county and National Guard will hold simulation exercise in Cedar Grove to prepare for large-scale disaster and see what works and what needs to improve." The National Guard ini- tiated the exercise and was looking to partner with a city close to its base at the Minne- apolis -St. Paul International Airport. Eagan agreed to host it, Scott said, because it's good training and a good test of the city's response capabilities. While the exercise has been planned since early this year, well before the bridge col- lapsed, that incident shows how important this type of multiagency coordinating is, he said. "It doesn't matter what the scenario is," Scott said. "What we're really testing is how ev- erybody responds together, communicates together, and See Drill, 7A /it Brie f What: Disaster simulation exercise Why: To test emergency response in the event of a large-scale disaster When: From 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 27 Where: Cedarvale Mall area in Eagan Who: Eagan Police and Fire departments; Dakota Coun- ty Emergency Preparedness; FBI; Homeland Security; National Guard Guard C-130 loaded with fuel and five crew members that mysteriously goes down near Highway 13 and Silver Bell Road. According to the scenario, the crash occurs just after the FAA and Transportation Se- curity Administration tighten security around all interna- tional airports. The drill is intended to test emergency response time, training and decision -making of the agencies involved. "As we saw with the I-35W bridge collapse, quick and co- ordinated response in times of major disasters is essential," Eagan Fire Chief Mike Scott said. "We aim to test those capabilities in the extreme 0 4:12D•oF ` BuRNSvu-LE Setace MONDAY-FRIDAY 7AM-6PM, SATURDAY 8AM-4PM • • • • • • • • • • • • t Check-up MAID Engine Oil Coolant Brakes Power Steering Transmission Wiper Washe Belts Hoses Air Filter Cooling System Windshield Wiper Blades Lamps Battery Otters good this week. For Appointment 0 35W South and Cliff Road LET US WORK ON YOUR CAR BEFORE MP C TI lacci a CtiTto •;_?% CO 866-350-54.99 CLi a` "fa* PURCHA Offer good thru November 3 Mention this ad during write-up. • •I , Photo by Laura Adelmamt Dakota County Commissioners Paul Krause (left) and Joe Harris listened as the countywide 800 megahertz emergency communications system was tested. New emergency radio system commissioned by Laura Adelmann THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Dakota County's 800 mega- hertz emergency responder system on Oct. 23 passed its biggest "Can you hear me now?" test yet. For months, the multiagency emergency communications system testing has been con- ducted throughout the county, with emphasis placed on areas where transmission was ex- pected to be more challeng- ing. Testing has proven the sys- tem strong, and all responders speaking through the portable radios came through loud and Risk and Homeland Secu- A public open house event rity manager B.J. Battig char- is set for Saturday, Oct. 27 acterized the recognition "a from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. significant milestone" and de- at the Dakota Communica- scribed the system as utilizing tions Center, 2860 160th Street the most advanced communi- West, Empire Township. cations available. Visitors will get to tour the Responders contacted dur- building and learn more about ing the meeting were located the work of the area's emer- throughout the county, in- gency responders. cluding the Dakota Commu- Acting Dakota County nications Center in Empire Board Chair Joe Harris con - Township, Lone Oak Road gratulated Battig and recog- and Pilot Knob in Eagan, and nized the intergovernmental County Road 47 and Highway efforts that have gone into 50 in Hampton. making the system possible. Battig said the system test- "I feel this will benefit our ing has proven strong signals citizens for many many years from Lakeville to Forest Lake into the future," he said. THISW E=K QGtober 27, 2007 3A. Wardlow will hold town hall meeting State Rep. Lynn Wardlow, R-Eagan, will hold a town hall meeting for Eagan residents at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 30, in the City Council Chambers at the Eagan Municipal Center. "The meeting will give you an opportunity to provide in- put for the upcoming legisla- tive agenda on health care, education, transportation and taxes," Wardlow said. "We're going to have a local meeting to discuss these issues and any other concerns that you would like us to consider." The meeting will feature short presentations on each topic, to be followed by discus- sions of citizens' thoughts and ideas in each area. Attendees will have access to information sheets on each topic, and there will also be sign -in sheets for people who want follow-up re- ports on any topic, and forms to request information on any subject. "Legislative leaders and other representatives are being lined up to talk with us," Ward - low said, "so your thoughts will be presented to the folks who are drafting bills and casting votes next spring," New women's cancer survivor group is seeking members A new cancer survivors group, "Pay it Forward," has been formed to help women who have questions on their journey of battling their can- cer disease. There is no fee to be part of the group, which deals with such questions as: How do I tell my children and family? Which books are good for ed- ucating me, humoring me and soothing me? How do I feel after surgery? What can I do to overcome the chemo side effects? What can I eat during chemo to help rid the side ef- fects? When do I lose my hair? Where do I get wigs, scarves, hats and not spend a lot of money? When do I lose my eyebrows and eyelashes, and then what? Get recovery tips to lose the "cancer" weight and get back in healthy shape, and learn what to eat for recovery, build- ing cells and getting back one- self. Call Pam Pemberton at (612) 386-8571 for more infor- mation. Tired of sending money up the chimney? 4A October 27, 2007 THISWEEK Opiibn Guest Editorials Vote Yes for charter, for direct democracy by Sandra Masin STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DFL-EAGAN As a state representative and former Eagan City Council member, I recognize that good government depends on citizen involvement. The direct democracy of a city charter is the epitome of citizen involvement. City charters give citizens a direct say in their government because all charter provisions are subject to votes of the people. The power is in the voters, not a Charter Commission. Equally important to a democracy is openness in government. The charter enhances the openness of Eagan government by increasing the ability of Eagan residents to address their elected officials. It requires that public comment at City Council meetings be at the beginning of the meetings, as opposed to forc- ing citizens to wait until the end of the meetings, as is current council policy. The charter also furthers openness in government by having campaign finance disclosure requirements that go above and beyond state law. Having been a resident of Eagan since 1976, I recognize that the city is at a turning point. Eagan is on the cusp of two major events. One is that Eagan is nearly fully developed. That means the rapid increase in property values that accompanies development is over. Increases in city spending will no longer be offset by that increase in property values. Decisions preserving the low tax rate that we all enjoy will be more difficult. The charter requires that capital planning continue to be incorporated into yearly budgeting. This removes the temptation to defer budgeting for capital needs in order to keep current tax rates low, and it continues what has been suc- cessful for the city. The other major event is a change in city leadership. Eagan has had great stability in staffing and that may be changing in the near future. Eagan's city See Masin, 13A Vote No Charter to keep Eagan moving forward by Pat Geagan FORMER EAGAN MAYOR The good people of Eagan are being called on once again to judge whether the city should adopt a charter or to continue under the system that has worked extremely well for the residents and businesses of the city. Given Eagan's record of success, it is questionable why a vote is even necessary; however, the unelected Charter Commission, a group appointed by a district court judge, is seeking this radical reworking of our government. While claiming to seek a greater voice for the people in government, the com- mission is pursuing a disingenuous strategy of forcing the vote when the fewest number of people are likely to participate. After failing to impose a charter three years ago, when some 80 percent of voters said "no," the commission now is hoping that a low Election Day turnout would help them succeed. It's important that residents take the time to vote on this issue, and to vote no. Those pushing this ill-conceived charter scheme now acknowledge that Eagan has been successful and claim passage of the charter would mean little change. This is hard to square with their zealous efforts. Change is very much on their agenda. The apparent strategy was to make a few changes in the earlier discredited plan to make it more appealing, while still pursuing their basic goals. Eagan residents should not be misled. The threat of a charter is real, and it is fast ap- proaching. A truly frightening prospect is the commission's plan for a mandated ratio of parkland to population. With projected population growth, this would require the addition of some 300-plus acres of land with a conservative acquisition cost of $90,000 per acre. That adds up to a $30 million pledge to be financed by the See Geagan, 13A • u sur s u aagjdairj /Tip .InoX Lanuo3 jau 7auaarluoaf@aol tpaap I sr uuv wjapj vinn7 'Of 'aac «anll 02„ of 1S •sSauolssiLIILuo0 sI_ uialsXs A(aua3auta O4J IClunoJ nloxtc aiopaq uoil •llnegt r4 o1 limos pun-nJlsuoulap aAI1 t? Bu1Jnp map