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Newspaper Clipping - Newspaper Clipping Scan - Planning for the new Eagan Community Center. 72 pages total. - 1/1/2000Gmircl-Pe%ii)tir 1Vet, Tie con, Q&A ON TIff NEWS Has a recent news story made you wonder about a relat- ed fact or Issue? Call 612'-6734080 or e-mail us at page2aestarilr$une.com, Give your name and phone number. Well answer some questions every day except Sunday. Sorry, no individual replies. QA 150-year-old oak tree was transplanted in Eagan. How did they.lift it? Jeff Borchardt, Minnetonka ATransplanting the tree was a complicated process. It involved hiring National Shade, a tree -moving company based in Houston, about $50,000 in private funds and at least 10 days, said Paul Olson, Eagan park superintendent. Workers first dug up the ground with a hydraulic back - hoe and by hand. Next, they secured the root ball with bur- lap and wire. They then drove metal pipes horizontally be- neath the ball, followed by four metal I -beams beneath the • pipes. The contraption with the 40-foot-tall oak on top served as a stable platform with which to move the tree. Workers then placed four hoists into the four corners of the hole and at- tached cables from the hoists to the 1-beams. Then they lifted the tree and platform. Once aloft, workers bolted tracks, similar to bulldozer or tank tracks, to the bottom of the platform. And finally a bulldoz- er and backhoe pulled it 400 yards to its new home on the west end of Eagan's Central Park. The tree was moved to make way for a new road. Q What does PNC stand for In Pittsburgh's new ballpark? New York Times and Cox News Service APNC Park is named after Pittsburgh -based PNC Fi- nancial Services Group, formed in the 1980s by the merger of Provident National Corp. in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh National Corp. mill an , th . June June June Ma MayM MaY RO 8 > Jar s For,- • in;; a series of books for fa - hers to give to their chil- i:••:•u, stepchildren and ;uidchildren. INSIDE ON PAGE 8A Metro nurses seek new contract Metropolitan area nurses will decide May 17 whether to sign new employment contracts or authorize a strike when their contract expires May 31. Members of the Minneso- ta Nursing Association MINA) have been negotiat- ing ;for months on issues icuch as adequate staffing. levels, compensation and ,ension and health-care benefits. INSIDE ON PAGE 9A Eagan golfers are shooting low The Eagan High School boys golf team has been fir- ing some low numbrs this spring, but the Wildcats un- derstand that their scores won't carry over to the big meets. With the Lake Confer- ence and Section IAA tour- naments looming, Eagan coach Brian Johnson said his team is not satisfied with its play right now. INSIDE IN SPORTS ginning," John said. "I was able to get the basics down quickly and it was something that I really enjoyed doing." John's latest title came at the U.S. Chess Federation's in the K-9 open division. He tied with three other players in the division and won tiebreakers over those op- ponents based on the ratings of players he faced in the tour - four -year all -tuition -paid scholarship to the University of Texas -Dallas. All this despite the fact John won't begin attending high school until the fall. John ence," Bartholomew said about John's most recent championship. "It was just one of those perfect weekends CHESS: To Page 10A • Project rooted in Eagan's Lone Oak history Eagan Foundation seeking $55,000 to move tree on central park site 6y Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers Echoes of Eagan's Lone Oak Tree reverberate in an effort to save a 40-foot tall bur oak standing in the way of a new road leading to the city's future community center. The Eagan Foundation is seeking donations for the "Grandfather Tree" project. The root of the Foundation's plans is. to move the tree about 450 yards from the path of the new road leading in from Yankee Doodle Road to a spot across the Lock- heed Martin parking lot closer to the community center. "The spot it will be moved to near the community center is what the design has designated as focal point for the city of Eagan and the community cen- Ensrcw'�+�. Cv�w.+ 6AS-Pcw 6 - C te44 ter as visitors approach the building," said Kay Brown - Gustafson, an Eagan'Founda- tion member. "What could be a better focal point for the city than an oak tree." The tree would be the oldest and largest tree to ever be moved in the state, Brown - Gustafson said: Moving the tree to save it is especially important because of the tree's historical value since it was originally on the Wachter farmstead, one of the first settlements in what be- �b,2oo1 \V,2oo 1 came Eagan. However, before breaking the ground around the tree the Foundation is seeking to raise the $55,000 cost for moving the tree. The Foundation has so far raised $20,000 of the $35,0000 they seek from private sources. They hope to raise another $20,000 from the city's tree mit- igation fund. The tree mitigation fund comes from fees developers pay OAK: To Page 19A Eagan park goes to the dogs, other pets May 19 Woofer and Hoofer Walk- A-Thon seeks to meet $40,000 fundraising goal By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers When most people think about walking their pet, they are most likely thinking about a dog. However, people walking around Eagan's Blackhawk Park May 19 will likely see more than just dogs. The Minnesota Valley Hu- mane Society's (MVHS) 18th annual Woofer and Hoofer Pet Festival and Walk-A-Thon is set for the park that day. "Anybody can walk in the event, with or without a pet," MVHS Executive Director Lynae Gieseke said. "Itdoesn't have to just be a dog either. We've usually have people walk- ing cats and last year we had people actually walking guinea pigs and hamsters and other pets." Whether participants walk their cats and dogs or carry their smaller pets around the mile -long trail circling Black - hawk Lake, they, will help the MVHS raise money to continue to support its programs. Like other walk-a-thons, walkers in the Woofer and Hoofer get friends and relatives to sponsor them for walking in the event. But the day's activi- ties won't be limited to only the walk, Gieseke said. "We'll have pet photography for those people who want pro- fessional pictures taken of their pets," she said. "We are also planning games for the kids and will be selling food. There will also be a silent auction, vendor booths and other fun contests." ;: :Those contests include such things as owner/pet look -a -like, "most interesting pet," and largest and smallest pet con- tests. The day will kick off with reg- istration a 9 a.m. with the walk beginning at 10:30 a.m. Black - hawk Park is on Murphy Park- way, east of Blackhawk Road and north of Deerwood Drive. Last year with cold weather hampering turnout for the event, the MVHS raised $30,000 from the walk. That cold snap led to the decision to move the event from when it WOOFER: To Page 10A 0111 1 I1,' 1" Icl, ;Ilt: he bi- tin ;to tot so- at - try ati to • 10 1;t1. he ho :ve ,re ie. rr• ,11 le, •v 11 www.mnSun.com Oak From Page 1A when they remove trees from a site and is earmarked for replacing trees in the community to make up for those trees re- moved during the development. The first step in seeking that contri- bution from the city came May 14 when Brown -Gustafson went before the Parks Advisory Committee to seek its recommendation on the plan. The com- mittee's recommendation will then be passed onto the City Council for a final decision. Included in the donations already re- ceived for the project is a $1,000 donation from 2001 graduating class of Eagan High School as part of their senior -gift, according to Eagan High School Assis- tant Principal Polly Reikowski. The grad- uating class also donated money to plant a tree on the Eagan High School campus. In addition to moving the tree, the total cost will cover the cost of a Grand- father Tree Society bench bearing the names of those people or groups who have donated $5,000 to the effort. Plans also call for a bronze plaque designed to resemble an open book with the names of all donors that will be placed next to the tree. "We wanted to do something special in the community of Eagan," Brown - Gustafson said. "Our basic purpose is bringing people together in the commu- nity and this tree represents the history of 1 he city and is a symbol of lhc co1mm11- n11y.' City filrealcr (:re.P'g Ilovc first noticed Lhe 1 roe's predicament when reviewing the ;trading plans for the central hark site. While the road leading into the site had been shifted in such a way to avoid eliminating many trees, the big bur oak was right in the way of the road. Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current/Wednesday, May 16, 2001 19A "The road alignment was changed and that preserved more trees, but it became clear there was still one particular tree that was still too close to the road," Hove said. Original plans for the road would have taken out a couple dozen trees, but the new alignment for the road will take out only four to six trees, Hove said. "This is obviously a big improvement," Hove said. "It wouldn't have been able to happen without the cooperation of many people." The other trees that will eventually be removed to make way for the road are not candidates for relocation, Hove said. For a tree to be moved the conditions have to be just right, he said. "The other trees are more woods trees, not standing alone like the one that will be moved," Hove said. "We wouldn't move any other ones because you need to have a unique situation, which this tree has, in order to move a tree." Before deciding to move ahead with the project, the Eagan Foundation "did every bit of research" on moving the tree, Brown -Gustafson said. What Founda- tion members discovered was .that de- spite a tree of this size never having been moved in Minnesota, in other parts of the country moving similar trees is not rare. The Foundation contacted National Shade Tree Inc., a Texas firm that spe- cializes in moving large trees, to deter- mine how best to move the tree. The com- pany is one of only two companies in the country that moves "super trees" — more than 24 inches in diameter, Hove said. National Shade Tree will spend about two weeks in Eagan, starting May 29, to move the tree. "It really, is a small tree for them," Brown -Gustafson said. "They are used to moving huge trees." Still the process to move the tree is a complex one. The tree, which is 27 inches in diameter, will involve digging a hole about 30 feet in diameter that goes down an average of 4 feet, Hove said. The tree's roots and the soil surrounding them will then be wrapped with burlap and wire and a platform formed from steel pipes will be used to lift the tree by hydraulic jacks onto a trailer. The whole package, which will weigh more than 240 tons in- cluding the tree, soil and the pipes, will move at a walking speed to its new loca- tion. Hove and Brown -Gustafson said the project is a perfect way to remember the Lone Oak Tree, which has become a sym- bol of the community since it was cut down in 1984 after state officials de- clared the dying tree a hazard to mo-. torists on nearby Highway 55. The tree, which was estimated to be more than 200 years old, is now the city's official logo. "Rarely do we get an opportunity in any community to get this kind of pro- ject together," Brown -Gustafson said. "It's an opportunity to retain part of the city's heritage, provide a symbol of the city for generations to come and build a sense of community through a shared spot." Donations for the Grandfather Tree Project can also be mailed to Grandfather Tree Project, in care of the Eagan Foun- dation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road, Suite 112, Eagan, MN 55122. Put someone who inspires you in the spotlight of • Legal Notices Auhl{r Ni+11ra {iye/ It c YOu part is'easy. Nominate your Ageless Hero Nominate your,Ageiess Hero"" todd ay by taking a few minuteg to fill out the form ploN Ems- 'PILESS S THURSDAY, MAY 17, 2001 LOCAL ,NtWS SM Eagan offers small amount to help move tree AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER he Eagan City Council will support an oak tree being relocated in Central Park, but not to the financial extent that organizers wanted. That means the Eagan Foundation needs to raise more money from other sources. The community nonprofit has raised about $20,000 toward its goal of $55,000 to transplant an oak tree from one part of Central Park to another. If the 40-foot-tall tree isn't moved, it will be cut down to make way for a new road. The foundation had hoped to get $20,000 from the city's tree mitigation fund, but many council members felt that was going a little too far out on a limb. There is about $118,000 in the fund, which is money from developers that can only be used for tree projects. Instead, on Tuesday, the council agreed to pay for a bench at the site of the relocated tree and pitch in with some landscaping and site work. The city's contributions will equal about $7,000 including labor. Peggy Carlson, who said the tree could be a focal point for Central Park, was the only council member to support giving more money. Other council members said they liked the pro- s The council also suggest- ed the possibility of lending the Foundation money, but didn't vote on the idea because Kay Brown - Gustafson, chair of the Grandfather Tree Project, said the Foundation would have to discuss that. Brown -Gustafson said that this .effort isn't just about saving a tree, but recreating a com- munity symbol. A plaque will tell the story of the Lone Oak Tree — a community landmark ject, but did not believe the city should spend $20,000 — particularly, since the request was short notice and didn't leave much time for public input. 'This is a worthy project," said Mayor Pat Awada, who offered to help with fund raising. "I will probably support it personally but there are a lot of people out there who think this is nuts." The city could plant thou- sands of trees for that amount of money, Awada aid. DETAILS To make a tax- deductible donation to the Grandfather Tree Project, send a check to the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road Suite 112 No. 215, Eagan, MN 55122. For more Information, call Kay Brown - Gustafson at (651) 454- 6755. which was torn down in 1984. Longtime resi- dents are nostalgic for the tree, where resi- dents posted official notices and farmers stored their milk to be picked up by a hauler. If the Eagan Foundation can raise the money, National Shade out of Houston, Texas will come to Eagan to move the tree starting at the end of May, The job will take about two weeks and includes digging up a substantial root ball and slowly transporting the tree about 450 yards to its new home. The tree is located near Pilot Knob and Yan- kee Doodle roads on the edge of the Lockheed Martin parking lot near the site of the future community center. The bur oak is estimated to be between 140 and 160 years old — middle- aged for this type of tree — and has a 27-inch diameter. The tree must be moved now because work on the road is scheduled to begin soon. The city planned the road project in a way to minimize tree loss but couldn't design a route that would save all trees. About five trees will be removed. Amy Sherman, who covers Eagan, Inver Grove Heights and Rosemount, can be reached at asherman@ pioneerpress.eom or (651) 228-2174. Fading supplies imperil metro area road projects DOUG PETERS STAFF WRITER With metro -area supplies of gravel, sand and limestone dwindling and being covered over by development, the Twin Cities could face tough choices about future road projects, a Metropoli- tan Council researcher told a council work group Wednesday. Twenty years from now, trans- port costs to bring in aggregates from outside the metro area could add hundreds of millions of dollars the seven -county region, said Gene Knaff, research economist for the Met Council. Under Knaff's projections, the annual cost of aggregate, which makes up about 25 percent of road projects' price tags, could jump by as much as $360 million because of the cost of importing the material from outside the region. Unless budgets for such projects were increased accordingly (taking money away from other areas), could force governments to cut, back on the number of projects undertaken each year, Knaff said. Knaff's report came as part of 'a Met Council Rural Issues Work Group meeting on the status of months of discussions on the region's sand, gravel and lime- stone supply and what the council should do to safeguard metro -area reserves. The work group began examining the region's aggregate supply last. year, after a legislative task force nesota Geological Survey showed that the metro area's aggregate supply was running out fast. According to the geological sur- vey, the region was on pace to run out of aggregates by 2028. But the Met Council's Marcel Jouseau said rapid 'development and thousands of acres of agricultural preserve land further limits the supply. Jouseau has said that, unless something is done to protect aggregate deposits, the Twin Cities' supply could run out as DAKOTA COUNTY ( SOUTH ST. PAUL Dinner benefit for wildlife set: Minnesota Wildlife haven, a non- profit group that works to return injured and orphaned animals to the wild, will hold a benefit dinner from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at home Cooking Cafe Too, two miles south of Interstate 494 on Concord Boulevard in South St. Paul. Tick- ets for the buffet dinner, which will include entertainment, are $25 in advance or $30 at the door and EAGAN are tax-deductible. Dinner reservations are required and times will be assigned. Call (952) 997-6430. must be a valid 11 er's lice: bid numl Mercht electron accessor paid for auction sal+•. i u (65 Humane The large southern —TIM CAREY. STAFF WRITER Valley annual V, DAKOTA COUNTY tival and i egistrati Dakota City opening: A 1900-era Blackhar baseball game will be the highlight event's to of Dakota City's opening event, way east. Pancakes and a Whole Lot More, norilt of 1 on Sunday at the Dakota City IIer- 5rhedi itage Village on the Dakota County. silent at Fairgrounds in Farmington. a u i n a Is Breakfast will be served from 8 12-mile a.m. to 1 p.m. in the museum; path beg with two baseball games featuring istration the Quick Steps from St. Paul and the socic the St. Croix of Stillwater, sched-' Burnsvil uled to start at 10 a.m. and noon stores an on the field south of the museum. the area. Free horse-drawn trolley rides, led able on by a narrator, will also be avail- (www.m, able during the day. Food tickets All eontri are $5 for adults and $3 for chil-, the (lay c dren, with proceeds benefiting the for prize village. Call (651) 460-8050. -- TIM CAREY, STAFF WI1I1LI1 EAGAN Un.e. airrr• Surplus, unclaimed property up Plr.r-,1c 1, for auction: Eagan's annual city lir .;,,fete• auction of surplus and unclaimed property will begin with bidding S:iic, at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Eagan Maintenance Facility, 3501 Coach- (:no 1I: man 'toad. Preview of auction BaIi,;. , .ecii:,bvAk. t , corn Q&A ON INE NEWS Has a recent news story made you wonder about a relat- ed fact or issue? Call 6i2-673-9080 or e-mail us at Page2ailistartribune,com. Give your name and phone number. Well answer some questions every day except Sunday. Sorry, no individual replies. QA 150-year-old oak tree was transplanted in Eagan. How did they_lift it? Jeff Borchardt, Minnetonka ATransplanting the tree was a complicated process. It involved hiring National Shade, a tree -moving company based in Houston, about $50,000 in private funds and at least 10 days, said Paul Olson, Eagan park superintendent. Workers first dug up the ground with a hydraulic back - hoe and by hand. Next, they secured the root ball with bur- lap and wire. They then drove metal pipes horizontally be- neath the ball, followed by four metal I -beams beneath the • pipes. The contraption with the 40-foot-tall oak on top served as a stable platform with which to move the tree. Workers then placed four hoists into the four corners of the hole and at- tached cables from the hoists to the I -beams. Then they lifted the tree and platform. Once aloft, workers bolted tracks, similar to bulldozer or tank tracks, to the bottom of the platform. And finally a bulldoz- er and backhoe pulled it 400 yards to its new home on the west end of Eagan's Central Park. The tree was moved to make way for a new road. QWhat does PNC stand for In Pittsburgh's new ballpark? New York Times and Cox News Service APNC Park is named after Pittsburgh -based PNC Fi- nancial Services Group, formed in the 1980s by the merger of Provident National Corp. in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh National Corp. > Po mill an th . June June June Mai May May May RO 361 ►te v. s Tool ost million PESS al for a new a high school 7oters this fall, asks residents $58.5 million es 9-12. school board it to put the a Nov. 6 spe- vote followed nd study in the district, which 1,800-student t capacity. ;t way to give options," said board member. ?.sidents resisted ;h schools, sur- ttle support for one large high )ilment of 3,000 will be moved Na�, Fundraisers still seeking $12,000 AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER When Kay Brown -Gustafson heard that the city forester had bumped his noggin on a tree branch while mowing, she jokingly wondered whether it was a bad omen in their pursuit of getting a large oak tree moved in Central Park. After all, it bumpy road for Brown - Gustafson and other members of the Eagan Foundation who were trying to raise $55,000 in a matter of not broken," oily Dahl said 7e truly do need new high school ?.tter experience id. Listrict has ele- iat cover grades for 7-9 and one [f voters approve )ol, it's expected of 2004. The ele- ould shift to K-5, would be grades schools would be reconfiguration p some space in :hools and make .en a possibility, om, the district's dent. the fast-growing is on the rise, ojections showing of ninth- through .^crease by about and the fall of rendum question million, which high school, a .on to Oak Hills ':ion in technolo- and $5 million : ed maintenance had been a bit of a The public can fol- low the project by dropping In at the observation area near the tree or on the city's web site — www.cityofea- gan.com — which will be regularly updated about the tree's progress. 23 tee inparJi ZO6N about $22,000. That means about $12,000 is still needed. A group of local women, calling themselves `Ladies who do Lunch" will bring a picnic basket meal to the workers daily to help lower the costs. The city will pay for the plaque and a bench, in addition to helping with site work. The plaque by the relocated Grandfather Tree will tell the story of the Lone Oak Tree — a longtime landmark that old- timers affectionately remember because the community used to post notices there and farmers stored their milk at the tree. The dying tree was torn down by the state in 1984, but remains the com- munity's symbol. National Shade will dig out a 30- foot root ball underneath this oak tree and slowly transport it 450 yards to a new spot in Central Park. The public can follow the project by dropping in at the obser- vation area near the tree or on the cit ofea- weeks. Some residents saw the proposal as a nutty waste of money, in particu- lar because many trees in Eagan have already been lost to develop- ment. But enough folks liked it that organizers were able to secure money for a down payment to sign on the dotted line with the tree movers. National Shade, a Houston company that specializes in moving large trees, will start the two -week project May 31. The Grandfather Tree, as organ- izers have named it, is 40 feet tall and 27 inches in diameter. The middle-aged bur oak is estimated to be between 140 and 160 years old, according to city forester Gregg Hove, who first thought of moving the tree. A new road would have taken out the tree — and will still take out a handful of trees — but Hove figured this one could be saved. The tree is located along the edge of the Lockheed Martin city s web site www y gan.com — which will be regularly updated with the tree's progress. The project will be most interest- ing to spectators starting around June 6. Opt trim starts Individuals and businesses from Eagan and other cities have donated money. "The people who have been call- ing me all have their special rea- sons for giving to the tree project," Brown -Gustafson said. "One said she didn't ever know the suburbs have soul. One is giving to honor their grandfather. Another person called from St. Paul and said it's the neatest thing he'd seen a com- munity do in a long time." To make a tax-deductible dona- tion to the Grandfather Tree Pro- ject, send a check to the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road Suite 112 No. 215, Eagan, Minn., 55122. Organizers have formed The Century Club, and hope to raise parking lot near the intersection of $100 from 100 people. Century Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle Club members will get to put their roads, close to where the city plans handprint in a concrete walkway to build a community center. near the tree, while some larger Organizers have about $21,000, donors will have their names on a and commitments for other funds bench. For more information call and donations including lodging Kay Brown -Gustafson at (651) 454- and food for the workers total 6755. SOUTH ST. PAUL ,Jiks.s stop si gii Ott Infamous peregrine falcon mother Mae, who host of Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, aE could be banded and so blood sample could t port look on as Fowler holds one of four baby Students are Ryan Connors, left, Heather Kar Bands file i • • opposition GARY DAWSON STAFF •vk;= -_R acc pro Ihree northern Wisconsin the we bands have filed notice of the their intent to sue St. Crc'.. to E alleging the county ccn- to tractual agreement no'. t:, „-. oe a and prpcsed c _. lur _rug2'_En_r hound Rac r aIC/tJ riAmourrit FOODS We're Chaeging Our Name GROCERY cmeirt IET 3115 E aBlh Street MPrs„ sari 56406 Plc (612) 729-7281 Faso (612) 729-2166 3111 Emerson Ave_ hapis, MN 55411 Ph: (612) 302-8e56 Fax: (612) 302-6937 1666 Whits Bear Average St Peel MN 55169 Mc (661) 776-2902 HOW TO REACH THE SOUTH SUBURBAN TEAM • Kevin Maier, suburban team leader, (651) 228-5421 ✓ Judy Anginteanu, covering West St. Paul, South St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights, (651)228-5509 • Tammy Oseid, covering Apple Valley, Burnsville, Rosemount and Lakeville. (651) 228-2171, • John Welbes, covering Dakota County educa- tion, (651) 228-2175 tAt1 A P1 Transplanted tree survives first year Residents celebrate successful move BY MARA H. GOTI'FRIKD Pioneer Press Soon after Ted Wachter's quadruple bypass surgery in May, he made a phone call to check on a tree. After all, Wachter's heart was on the mend and so was the tree's_ The Granrdfather Tree in Eagan remanded Wachter of new life and the future. Wachter visited the 40-foot f- k'K ff st 1_, � � • +"� fax / "A CIIRIRATION • OF DIVIRUTY" Saturday, June 1.5.10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Taste of Sibley Plaza promises to have a little / something for everyone. ( Stop in and taste a variety of foods such as Ethiopian, Russian, kj Eastern European and km Aso vi -xnl AB .mi40s Alga Taste of Sibley Plaza Schedule fATYRDAI/..fYNi W. Entertainment I ) Sibley Plaza Sidewalk Sale Saturday & Sunday tall hur oak, which is about 150 years old, on Thursday — one year after it was uprooted and moved about 450 yards to save it from a new road that would have wiped it out As icing as it's growing, it's a sign of hope," said Wachter; who was an Eagan City Council member for 27 years. "It's a symbol of strength, beauty and longevity." In a Thursday birthday cele- bration of sorts for the tree, Waditer cut the yellow ribbon that encircled its trunk Gregg How, Eagan s forestry supervisor. noticed the tree was in danger in its old home when he saw maps of the new road through the city's Central Park, which is under construction. Kay Brown Gustafson led the Eagan Foundation effort because she thought saving the tree would he a chance to recreate a comimmity symbol - the Lone Oak `Mee, a com- munity landinar k that was torn down in 1984. It cost about $50,0001, raised by the Fagan Foundation, to save the Grandfather Tree. The tree took about a week and a half to trove, in the fashion of a house being transported on a trailer. It's near Lockheed Mar- tin and will be a focal point in Central Park Oaks are "pretty finicky," Hove said, and some were wor- ried about whether the tree would survive. And though it doesn't have many leaves yet, Have said he expects the tree to make it - So on Thursday, the group toasted the tree: -lb life," they declared Wachter and the others gazed up at the leaves begin- ning to blossom on the gnarled branches as Brown Gustafson read a poem by e.e. cumrnings and took the poetic license to add the word 'may" "I, who may have died, am alive again today, she read Mara IL Gottfried can be reached at mgottfFied@ pioneermress.com ar (651) 228-5262. • L N r AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER New road threatens 150-year-old oak ASS ,�, s,20co IA between 140 and 160 years old, which is con- sideredk. tree grows in Eagan, with a yellow ribbon Mo Moving lanl e oakaethat measuresfor a bur 27 inches in L freshly tied to its thick trunk. The bright diameter with a crown of 45 feet is a "tree - how is a sign that this big old tree is going mendous" undertaking. A company from Hous- places. In fact, it's going about 450 yards. ton, Texas, called National Shade, which spe- If the community can raise enough money, cializes in moving large trees, will spend about the 40-foot tall bur oak will be raised from two weeks here starting the last week of May. one corner of Central Park and put down roots The Eagan Foundation is soliciting donations in another spot in the park. The tree must get to foot the $55,000 bill and` has about $13,000 a move on to make way for a new road. City forester Gregg Hove estimates that the tree is TREE CONTINUED ON 7A ► Tree ♦ CONTINUED FROM 1 A so far. The nonprofit will soon ask the City Council to contribute about $20,000 from developers' fees that are earmarked for tree projects. Some council members expressed mixed views on whether '.it's worth it to spend that much on ,'a lone tree, although they said they need more information. If the project comes together, "here's how the tree will be moved: `',the crew will dig a hole 30 feet in ;diameter and about 5 to 8 feet deep and wrap the tree's ball of soil with burlap and wire. Steel `pipes will then be placed under- •'neath the chunk to create a lifting platform. Using hydraulic jacks and steel beams, the tree will be .Sifted onto a trailer and stood up- -right. The tree, soil and pipes com- ,'bined will weigh about 250 tons, or =about the same as 34 empty school buses. Traveling at about walking "Speed, the trailer will amble across the adjacent Lockheed Martin parking lot to the tree's -new home. David Cox, general manager at National Shade, has been moving trees of this size and larger since 1994. Cox has moved about 100 giant trees, and reports that he :has yet to lose one. The process allows the roots to regenerate, which is why the trees survive, he .said. Large trees have been moved 'for many years in other parts of the country but it's a unique pro - To help A tax-deductible donation to the Grandfather Tree Pro- ject can be made by send- ing a check to the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road Suite 112 No. 215, Eagan, MN 55122. Seven people or organizations that give $5,000 or more will have their names on a com- memorative bench. For more information, call Kay Brown -Gustafson at (651) 454-6755. ject for Minnesota, said Gary Johnson, an urban forestry profes- sor at the University of Minnesota. Eagan's city forester started to think about the tree's precarious future last fall when he noticed that maps showing the develop- ment of a new road would take out some trees. A path was chosen that would take out the least amount of trees — about five — but Hove wondered if one that stood alone could be rescued. Hove talked to tree experts and did some tests to determine the condition of the tree, which is in good health. The Eagan Founda- tion became involved because it wanted to plant a tree in the park. Last year, Eagan bought the land for a park and plans to build a community center along with oth- er amenities on the site. Kay Brown -Gustafson, a founda- tion member, sees this project as a way to honor the history of the Lone Oak Tree, an Eagan land- mark that was perhaps 200 years old when it was cut down in 1984. For many years the tree was used as a spot to post official town notices; farmers used to store cans of milk in a tub under the tree so a hauler could pick them up and deliver them to a creamery. The Minnesota Transportation Department considered the tree, which was dying from years of road salt, a hazard to motorists. The city told the state it was bark- ing up the wrong tree, but eventu- ally the relic had to go. The Lone Oak tree is now the city's official logo and a slice of the tree is on display at City Hall. A bronze plaque tr ble an open story placed by this tree a tion and tell the sto: 0ak Tree in additior. names of the donors also be put near ti the names of big do Like all suburbs, ' many. trees to de Hove sees this as a r ty to save a tree. ". destruction nowada see some preservati Amy Sherman, who cov Grove Heights and Ros( reached at asherman @ploneerpr 228-2174, JUNE 9, 2001 EAGAN http:www.thisweek-online,.com VOLUME 23, NO. 15 Pulling up roots Eagan's new Lone Oak Twee is on the move by Erin Johnson Staff Writer A massive effort was under- taken last week as Eagan's new Lone Oak Tree was moved, intact, 450 feet to its home in front of the future Community Center. During the final phase of the Eagan Foundation's "Grandfather Tree. Project," the 150-year-old oak was lifted, roots and all, and transported across the Lockheed Martin parking lot to its new location. The National Shade Tree Company, a tree -moving com- pany based in Texas, handled the move. The oak is the largest tree ever to be relocated in Minnesota. Kay Gustafson, a member- of the Eagan Foundation, said that when she contacted National Shade, which has moved trees as large as sequoias, she was concerned they wouldn't be able to move the tree. "But when they looked at it they said, `That's a little tree!' " she said, laughing. Little, maybe, but a major undertaking nonetheless. In May, crews began cutting a 30- foot circumference around the tree and dug an eight -foot deep hole with shovels to avoid dam- aging the roots. On Wednesday, June 6, the tree and the 30 feet of ground covering its roots were lifted onto a platform and, over the course of more than two hours, moved only a fraction of the dis- tance. Crews began working again early Thursday morning to move the tree the rest of the way, and Thursday afternoon was spent placing the tree in its new hole. The entire process started See Tree, 9A Workers pull the old oak from its original home as it begins the 450-yard trek to its new location. Photo by Erin Johnson 3.9' r. for 60 available 2001 ST' `1` E - 4 DR "ALI. \1.;W DLSJG"J Atr CD pl ,or. pt w.1 (.seat, wrnA� lockNi. keyless. trip computer Lease Specials are best at Dodge of Burnsville $239 lS50 ash/Tradc Disc. & Rebate 19,255 -1956 * Plus 1st payment lie. fee & doc payment + tax. tax on cash, 3.9% APR in lieu of rebate. '2000 REBATE or 3.9 % 60 mo. er $2,95 mo. 48 T Cash/Trade $27 299 ' * Plus 1st p'mL lie lec & doe. tau -payment & cash don n L9`r, I,,w 11'R Tiilieu of rebate. @pq Pd]a 21 4x4 Favorite of 1.9Q�o Moms & Dads /o everywhere! APR 60 mos. DURANGO's��.; FREE 3RD ROW SEAT WITH REAR AIR SLT value package, 4.7 eng., auto, power (seat, windows, locks), CD player, Infinity speakers, 16" cast wheels & wheel flares. #1 VOLUME LEASE DEALER LIMITED TIME M.S.R.P. Cash/Trade Free seat o.x Package Disc. Disc. & Rebate PRICE $33,140 -550 -315 -4976 '2000 REBATE Air, 16" cast wheel, a spin. fog tamps, tilt, c rear slider, CD player SPECIAL LEASE RATE 3v1.S.R.P S17.605 e, Disc, & Rebate -3606 15,000 MILES PER YEAR '2000 REBATE or 3,9% 60 mo. $2000 REBATE Tree/Continued months ago, when Kay Gustafson and the Eagan Foundation decided it would be nice to have an oak tree as the focal point of the new Community Center. She contact- ed Gregg Hove, Eagan's supervi- sor of forestry, who said to her, "I have just the tree." The chosen oak stood directly in the path of construction for the new road to the Community Center and would have to be cut down. Gustafson immediately took to the tree, amazed at its resemblance to the original Lone Oak Tree that was cut down in 1984 to make way for a highway. After contacting National Shade, the Eagan Foundation set about raising $55,000 to cover the cost of the move, and also to pay for a bench to be placed by the tree that will honor contribu- tors. The back of the bench will consist of seven branches with the name of each contributor inscribed on the branches. Gustafson said that the foun- dation is still $6,000 short of its goal but is hoping to raise the rest by next week. Groups that have already contributed to the project include Lockheed Martin, Northwest Airlines, Unysis and the 2001 senior class of Eagan High School. Representatives from these groups were on hand at the end of May for a ceremonial "first , dig" at the site, and each was given a copy of the book "The Lone Oak Years," which chroni- cles the history of Eagan. "The generations of your families will know that you had a part in preserving something so special to the community," Gustafson said to the group. Last Wednesday, the first day of the move, brought out many spectators, including City Administrator Tom Hedges and City Council Member Paul Bakken. Also in attendance was one of Eagan's first council members, Ted Wachter, whose cousin Norman used to own the land upon which the tree stood. "This is a worthwhile com- munity effort," Wachter said. "And it will be a real focal point for the Community Center."" Wachter, a lifetime resident of Eagan, still remembers when the original Lone Oak was cut down. This, he said, is a much happier experience. "This is far more gratifying," he said. "It's something that will never be forgotten by the people that have seen it." Above, workers manually shovel an 8-ft. hole around the tree. Right and below, the tree and its roots are lifted from the ground and propped up on a platform before the move. Photos by Erin Johnson Natural/Continued If the plan is implemented, property owners who agree to allow easements could expect the public to use the land for recreational activities and an annual inspection by the coun- ty to ensure the property is being used in accordance to the contract. The purpose of the program is to conserve land under smart growth principles as promoted by the Metropolitan Council. Kurt • Chatfield with the Dakota County Office of Planning emphasized that if such a program were put into place, it would be completely optional. "We're not talking about a large governmental land grab." he said. Landowners who want to participate, if the programs are implemented, would be in a competitive, point -generating process to determine the best land for preservation. Among the criteria could be proximity to natural resources and threat of development. Chatfield said the purpose of the plan is to manage pro- jected growth in a consistent manner. "We're not talking about breaking down development, we're talking about balancing development," Chatfield said. THE THREE BIGGEST KILLERS IN AMERICA TODAY ARE CANCER HEART DISEASE ANI APATHY. lb Every year, thousands of lives are saved because of the American Cancer Society and the American,Heart Association. 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NE MPLS, EAGAN, BURNSVILLE, EDEN PRAIRIE and the AIRPORT (Across from The Mall of America) IH ups 6/9.7572.12 Equal Opportunity Employer Come work with UPS! • Call our Job Hotline at (651) 681-2800 or visit our website www.upsjobs.com 2A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current/Wednesday, May 30, 2001 www.mnSun.com Grandfather Tree project branches out to other communities Process to move tree on Eagan central park site will begin May 31, last two weeks By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers With an effort planted in Eagan but with roots extending across the Twin Cities, the Eagan Foundation has suc- cessfully raised enough to uproot and move the "Grandfather Tree" on the cen- tral park site. "This is just a real gift to the city to have this lone oak tree there next to the community center," said Kay Brown - Gustafson, an. Eagan Foundation mem- ber. "It really turned out to be a great community project and the tree will be a local point for generations to come in ul." '1'hc root of the Foundation's plans is to move the tree, which has been dubbed "The GrandfatherTree," about 450 yards from the path of the new road leading in from Yankee Doodle Road to a spot across the Lockheed Martin parking lot closer to the future community center. ; National Shade 'free Inc., a Texas company that specializes in moving large trees, will come to Eagan Thursday, May 31., to begin the two -week project. The tree, which is 27 inches in diame- ter, will involve digging a hole about 30 feet in diameter that goes down an aver- age of 4 feet. The tree's roots and the soil surround- ing them will then be wrapped with hurlap'and wire and a platform formed from steel pipes will be used to lift the tree by hydraulic jacks onto a trailer. The Whole package, which will weigh more than 240 tons including the tree, soil and the pipes, will move at a walking speed to its new location. Brown -Gustafson said the actual mov- ing of the tree will begin around June 6 and last about a full day. The public will be able to follow the project from an observation area near the tree or by logging on to the city's Web site at www.cityofeagan.com for updates on the project. The observation area will also include a kiosk with brochures on the project and daily updates will be post- ed near the observation area every after- noon during the move, Brown -Gustafson said. The Foundation has raised close to $21,000 and has commitments for other funds and donations including apart- ments and food for the workers that total about the same amount. A local group called "Ladies Who Do Lunch" will provide a daily picnic lunch to workers moving the tree to help lower the costs of the project, Brown -Gustafson said. That leaves the $13,000 to be raised by the Foundation, but gave organizers enough to sign a contract with National Shade to move the tree. Part of the dona- tions includes the city's commitment to pay for a plaque and a bench next to the tree's new location as well as assisting with site preparation. The Grandfather Tree Society bench will bear the names of those people or groups who have donated $5,000 to the effort. The bronze plaque will be designed to resemble an open book explaining the history of the Lone Oak Tree, Eagan's of- ficial symbol. Brown -Gustafson said she has been amazed at not only how the community has taken to the project, but by the num- ber of people outside Eagan who have contributed. "The general thought is that you get lost in the suburbs and there can'treally be a community feeling in the suburbs," she said. "This shows that Eagan is a real com- munity and has always been a communi- ty. This lets people know a suburb canbe a home and a community, as well." The tree will be the oldest and largest tree to ever be moved in the state, Brown - Gustafson said. The tree, -estimated between 140 and 160 years old, came to city forester Gregg Hove's attention while.he was reviewing grading plans for the central park site. While the road leading into the site had been shifted in such a way to avoid elim- inating many trees, the big bur oak was right in the way of the road. Original plans for the road would have taken out a couple dozen trees, but the new alignment for the road will take out only four to six trees, Hove said. Brown said the project is a perfect way to remember the Lone Oak Tree, which has become a symbol of the community since it was cut down in 1984 after state officials declared the dying tree a hazard to motorists. The tree, which was esti- mated to be more than 200 years old, is now the city's official logo. For more information on the Grandfa- ther Tree Project, contact Brown - Gustafson at 651-454-6755. Donations for the effort can also be mailed to Grand- father Tree Project, in care of the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road, Suite 112, Eagan, MN 55122. IA% SAINT PAUL PI(1v!AT PRESS NOVEMBER 1996 TUESDAY SECTION 6 PAGES Family effort spares old oak • Action to save tree also keeps street, Great Oak Trail, true to its name DON AHERN STAFF WRITER Here's to the oak, the brave old oak, Who stands in his pride alone; And still flourish he, a hale green tree, When a hundred years are gone! — H.F. Chorley, "The Brave Old Oak" The mighty white oak that spreads its leafy umbrella 50 feet across the new house at 837 Great Oak Trail in Eagan was a key feature that attracted a fam- ily of transplanted New Englanders to DAWN VILLELLA/PIONEER PRESS Lee and Denise Bennett of Eagan have legalized their attachment to this 125-year-old oak tree. buy the place last year. Like the city of Eagan's lone oak logo, the tree stands tall and proud, a link to the city's forest past and a sym- bol of strength and permanence in a rapidly growing and changing neighbor- hood of upscale homes. But the symbol seemed threatened by that very growth. The tree that was so much a part of the new home of Lee and Denise Ben- nett and their daughter, Kate, wasn't on their property. The boundary of the odd - shaped lot cut across their front yard, about two feet inside of the tree's four - foot diameter trunk. And about the time they were moving from Connecticut to TREE ♦ CONTINUED FROM IB their new home, builders were preparing to move earth and cut trees for the house that would be built next door — on their tree's lot. "This tree seemed to be so much a part of the aesthetic quality of this house, especially knowing how old it was," said Denise Bennett. Eagan officials had estimated that the tree may have been an acorn as long ago as the Civil War. "We didn't think anything would happen to it (because it was to the rear of next door development) but we wanted peace of mind," she said. So, Denise, a part-time dance instructor, and Lee, a vice presi- dent at The St. Paul Companies, launched a campaign to save the tree by annexing it to their prop- erty. In the meantime, Kate, 9, and her friends, busied themselves making signs in their efforts to save other trees in the neighbor- hood. One of Kate's favorite places for reverie is in the second story hall window at squirrel -eye level to the oak's great canopy. Fortunately, the owner of the oak was Bob Engstrom, developer of the Great Oaks subdivision and an avid friend of trees. He had already convinced Eagan to bend its rules to allow a smaller cul-de- sac serving several houses in that area in order to save that tree. And the city has a policy urging developers to save as many trees as possible. The Bennett's had little trouble adding the sliver of land next door that contained the precious old oak to their property. With the approval of the devel- oper and builder, it was easy con- vincing the city to approve a "waiver of subdivision," although about 10 hours of Denise's time was spent at city hall and circulat- ing the necessary notifications to neighbors. Despite the free land, ensuring the safety of the tree still cost the Bennetts about $1,200. The proper- ty line had to be resurveyed. A title search was required and own- ers of all properties within 350 feet had to be notified. That cost does not include the truck loads of boulders the Bennett's had hauled in to border and accent their tree — now a beloved family member. "The City of Eagan was wonder- , ful to work with," Denise said. "They walked us through the whole procedure. And they were very happy at the lengths we were willing to go to save the tree." at the intersection of Highway IJ and Yankee Doodle Road. INSIDE ON PAGE SA Area grads throw their caps in air Graduation time came to high schools south of the river in recent weeks. The classes of 2001 completed high school and are prepar- ing to move on to the next phase in their lives. Eagan, Burnsville and Eastview high schools all had cere- monies June 8. The School of Environmental Studies had its ceremony June 6. Photos of various ceremonies are featured inside. INSIDE ON PAGE 17A Bohlig sails past state golf field With a Tiger Woods -like lead, Brian Bohlig made sure he didn't have Jean VanDeVelde-type collaspe at the Class AA state golf tournament last week. The Cretin-Derham IIall senior remembered VanDe- Velde's stunning collaspe at the 1999 British Open where the frenchman blew a three -shot lead on the final hole and then lost the title in a playoff. INSIDE IN SPORTS 121aars. Realtor bought house slated to become group home By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers Trenton Trail residents who reached into their own pockets to prevent a group home Survey aims to keep firms in Eagan Results shape strategy By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers Eagan business and commu- nity representatives hope to strengthen the city's attraction for its existing businesses by building a three -pronged strate- gy on the back of the newly re- leased results of a business sur- vey. "Our goal was to find what things businesses like about Eagan and what things they found not favorable about the community," said Julie Stack - house, the chair of the Eagan Economic Development Com- mission. SURVEY: To Page 15A-.. • tinges m group • of •, .r from opening in their;neighborhood hope to continue working for changes op that other• neighborhoods won't find themselves in the same situation. • "I feel a lot better," said Oreatha Howard, who operates a day care out of her home, which is right next to house that was to be- come the group home. "I feel that it's a vic- tory but there is still so much work to be ome aws done to get the law overturned. We fought and won the battle, but now it's being pushed in somebody's else's backyard: Mike Murphy, a Realtor who lives iii.the Eagan neighborhood, stepped forward last month to buy the home with the help of his neighbors. HOME: To Page 22A Andy BlenkuiWSun Newspapers There it goes A crowd of residents and medla'gethered June 7 to watch 249 tons of tree, roots and dirt move a .:quarter of a mile to be near the future site of the community center In Eagan. The tree stands 40 :foot and Is 150 yaws old. ElkytA. S„►f - C.��+, e�.fi li.vmk. IS, 2001 rntsuwy tncWI:VI w scheduled to be exe- cuted on Monday. vnaw.Vuaa \.uy uW11ULLlb, rvUuaU aua. .0 ula�...0 . ....� .. a... While U.S. District Judge the 10th U.S. Circuit vCourt of Richard Matsch said "it was Appeals. Jouna no racial Ltas to federal death penalty cases. A25 St Mt lit n&U E 7, Zoo 1 A -1 Trunk packed, tree makes its move Star Tribune photo by Kyndell Harkness As a 150-year-old bur oak Inched along in Eagan on Wednesday, 3-year-old Peter Celatka looked on with part of his family tree: his dad, Peter, of Minneapolis, and his grandmother Carolyn Thurston, of Eagan. The 40-foot-tall oak was In the way of a new road, so $50,000 In private money was raised to cart It a quarter -mile to a spot near a planned community center. If all goes well, the tree could last another 150 years, said Gregg Hove, Eagan supervisor of forestry: "It's Just going through Its midlife crisis." Jackie Schwietz will step down This is the last year of Dayton's Daisy Sale, which will be renamed after the Marshall Field's name change. -�� • 7 7 T 7 '7 now wi Senate The first mid - session transfer of power was a congenial one. By Rob Hotakainen and Kevin Diaz Star Tribune Washington Bureau CorrespotuleiNs WASHINGI'ON, D.C. Democrats assumed control of - the U.S. Senate on Wednesday, but the historic transfer of power wasn't ex- actly what. Minnesota's Mark Dayton had in mind: II Icft him with no conunittee as- signments. "Ilere 1 am, in the major- ity and conuniUccics,' Dayton, joking over "tit sur•tiity Of the :oranges But until Republicans Democrats agree U, :I rc nization plan, cl,nunittl signmcnts revert to year's Congress, Ic:Ivil Senate freshmen 1.Itt cold. "ll's obviously temporary, but v...'. .r. long temporal y ! 1011 said. Despite tllc t oilit 1)cmocrals were • r.n bunch as they Iul.f. . in the Senate's fir,, oil. slut change of conon:ul SENATE contimree on A: -- Democrats plrtli;rrl 1,I tisanship and r, new i 7 St. 'x LW Ieve proba They posted higher test scores. Four other schools remain on the list. By Lucy Y. Her and Duchesne Paul Drew Star Tribune Staff Writers Seven of the 11 SI. I'aul public schools placed on probation in 1999 got off the superintendent's hit list Wednesday when district of- ri Off probation: > American Indian • > Bruce Verify Element; I; > Como Park Elementary NorthEnd'Bemenlary > ParkwayElbmentary > Riverview Elementary > Humboldt Junior High Still on probation: > Dayton's Bluff Element; Maxfield Elementary Arlington High School • I lumbol.It HIi;I .`:r ±; iol cawrii PaiLiC P 1,0 rticivv 15s - o 01 MOVING DAY RICHARD MARSHALL/PIONEER PRESS "It's sad, seeing it moved. I just think it ought to stay put," said Drew Engen, 10, of Eagan, who with his mom, Bonny, watched the Grandfather Tree being moved Wednesday from Central Park in Eagan, adjacent to Pilot Knob Road, where it has grown for 150 years. After Bonny explained to Drew that the tree is being moved to save it, Drew decided that the move is a good idea after all. The city of Eagan acquired acreage to develop Central Park and a new community center, and the oak tree would have to be moved to make way for an access road. A nonprofit organization called "The Grandfather Tree Project" raised $50,000 to pay for the move. The 249-ton tree and roots were moved about 450 feet to their future site near the new Eagan Community Center using hydraulic jacks, steel beams and a trailer and will be replanted in an 8-foot hole, 30 feet in diameter. www.mnSun. 18A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan SurrCurrentlWednesday, Dec. 26, 2001 Eagan From Page 1A A charter would lay down the rules of government and serve as a city constitu- tion. The charter also could allow for a larger council, place limits on the coun- cil's ability to spend taxpayer dollars, and set up a process to allow for the recall of council members, or go in any other di- rection the commission sees fit. If the commission decides to seek charter status, it presents the charter draft to the public for a vote. The city could become a charter city only if a ma- jority of voters approve the draft. In Min- nesota, 12 percent of cities have charters. The members of the commission spent most of the year gathering information on how a charter works and deciding how to tackle its job. Commission Chair Betty Fedde said the commission has been "progressing, but slowly" in its work since it was formed. The commission has established two separate work plans that will be melded into one to guide its work. Those work plans include time frames to com- plete tasks and setting up workshops with the city to learn more about how the city functions. "We have to have that contact to figure • out how the city is put together right now before we 'can decide what changes we want to suggest," Fedde" said. . If the `,commission members decide. during their meetings that a charter is not necessary or desirable for Eagan, the commission may be discharged by a vote of three -fourths of its members. After that, another commission cannot be formed for at least another year. Central Park Workon the 60-acre plot that will move even further toward becoming Eagan's long awaited Central Park con- tinued throughout 2001. Most of the work involved'slight improvements to the land to prepare it for its future use, but one change to the land to the northwest of Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodleroads was watched closely by not only Eagan, but surrounding communities as well. •Starting out with a plan that began formingat the end of April, the Eagan Foundation, a non-profit community or- ganization, raised funds to move a 140- year-old bur oak more than the length of four football fields across the park land. '-Named 'the '"Grandfather Tree" by the Egan Foundation, the tree was original- ly in the path of what will eventually be an access road for the community center and would have had to be destroyed. Instead, with the hhlp of Eagan .city" forester Gregg Hove, the Eagan Founda tion began plans to move the tree. Na- tional Shade Tree Inc.,,a Texas company that specializes in movi g large trees, came to Eagan on the last day of May to begin what eventually became a two - week moving effort. Moving the tree, which is 27 inches in, diameter, involved digging a hole about 30 feet in diameter that went down an av- erage of 4 feet. The tree's roots and the soil surrounding them were then wrapped with burlap and wire and a plat- form formed from steel pipes was used to lift the tree by hydraulic jacks onto a trailer. The whole package, weighing more than 240 tons including the tree, soil and the pipes, moved at walking speed to its new location close to the site of the com- munity center. Kay Brown -Gustafson, a member of the Eagan Foundation who led the effort, said the tree is doing well and is a sym- bol of what a community can do when it comes together for a cause. "The general thought is that you get lost in the suburbs and there can't really be a community feeling in the suburbs," she said. "This showed that Eagan is a real community and has always been a community. This let people know a sub- urb can be a home and a community, as well." Plans are currently underway tt velop other areas of Central Park as The city recently awarded bids for r of the community center construe and the Eagan Foundation is again v. ing on another project for .the site would providefor a memorial gay dedicated to firefighters, police and tary veterans from Eagan. Some par Central Park are slated to op. ) in summer of 2002 with the in in i I;v ter scheduled for a late 2003 ot:, nine Golf course Long a goal for the City Council. city began looking more closely at possibility of building a champion golf course in Eagan. The effort begs mid -July as the city began taking on the idea and took off with the foi tion of the Eagan Golf Course Expioi ry Committee in August. Since then the committee h;is 1 working on studying the feasibilit building the course in the heart of F.: located on or around Patrick liagnu 1 The City Council recently hired Iwo f to perform a schematic layout atilt tential course and do a financial fea: ity study on the course.' From previous page EAGAN: To next p OtS For rates .a.ndFinformation, call" 952-392-6875 (n GOOD( PPM'(pnq 'PEACE .jq 6pirit of Joy Church :Tree CONTINUED FROM IA so far. The nonprofit will soon ask the City Council to contribute about $20,000 from developers' fees that are earmarked for tree projects. Some council members expressed mixed views on whether 'it's worth it to spend that much on ,'a lone tree, although they said they need more information. If the project comes together, =' here's how the tree will be moved: `',the crew will dig a hole 30 feet in "-diameter and about 5 to 8 feet deep and wrap the tree's ball of soil with burlap and wire. Steel 'pipes will then be placed under- "neath the chunk to create a lifting -platform. Using hydraulic jacks and steel beams, the tree will be .lifted onto a trailer and stood up- -right. The tree, soil and pipes com- -bined will weigh about 250 tons, or .about the same as 34 empty school 'buses. Traveling at about walking "Speed, the trailer will amble across the adjacent Lockheed Martin parking lot to the tree's -new home. David Cox, general manager at National Shade, has been moving trees of this size and larger since 1994. Cox has moved about 100 giant trees, and reports that he :has yet to lose one. The process allows the roots to regenerate, which is why the trees survive, he .said. ;- Large trees have been moved 'for many years in other parts of the country but it's a unique pro - To help A tax-deductible donation to the Grandfather Tree Pro- ject can be made by send- ing a check to the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road Suite 112 No. 215, Eagan, MN 55122. Seven people or organizations that give $5,000 or more will have their names on a com- memorative bench. For more information, call Kay Brown -Gustafson at (651) 454-6755. ject for Minnesota, said Gary Johnson, an urban forestry profes- sor at the University of Minnesota. Eagan's city forester started to think about the tree's precarious future last fall when he noticed that maps showing the develop- ment of a new road would take out some trees. A path was chosen that would take out the least amount of trees — about five — but Hove wondered if one that stood alone could be rescued. Hove talked to tree experts and did some tests to determine the condition of the tree, which is in good health. The Eagan Founda- tion became involved beeause it wanted to plant a tree in the park. Last year, Eagan bought the land for a park and plans to build a community center along with oth- er amenities on the site. Kay Brown -Gustafson, a founda- tion member, sees this project as a way to honor the history of the Lone Oak Tree, an Eagan land- mark that was perhaps 200 years old when it was cut down in 1984. For many years the tree was used as a spot to post official town notices; farmers used to store cans of milk in a tub under the tree so a hauler could pick them up and deliver them to a creamery. The Minnesota Transportation Department considered the tree, which was dying from years of road salt, a hazard to motorists. The city told the state it was bark- ing up the wrong tree, but eventu- ally the relic had to go. The Lone Oak tree is now the city's official logo and a slice of the tree is on display at City Hall. A bronze plaque rr ble an open story placed by this tree a tion and tell the stoi Oak Tree in additior. names of the donors also be put near ti the names of big do Like all suburbs, many . trees to de Hove sees this as a 1 ty to save a tree. ". destruction nowada see some preservati Amy Sherman, who cov Grove Heights and Ros( reached at asherman @pioneerpr 228-2174. SUNDAY, APRIL 28.2002 METRO/STATE VG- IS3 * STAR TRIBUNE• Eagan's transplanted oak inspires b Kay Gustafson has made a point recently of driving daily past Eagan's "Grandfather Tree," a 150- year-old oak that was trans- planted nearly a year ago to be- come a centerpiece of Eagan's new community center. "1 just want to make sure the leaves show up," she said. It will be a few weeks before the tree reveals how it weath- ered the winter. But Gustafson, a board member of the Eagan Foundation, which raised $50,000 to move the tree, hasn't waited for inspiration. She has written a children's book about a woman who is told in a dream "�f•. that it is her g duty to protect a certain tree. The book will be illustrated by Minnesota artist Tom Maakestad, who paints landscapes of rural areas on the brink of de- velopment. Proceeds will sup- port the foundation and an environmental iiholarship. Osseo: (Countering Krispy Kreme Wednesday was Day Two of the Krispy Kreme Era in Maple Grove, and at 10 a.m. cars were still lined up for several hun- dred yards for doughnuts. But a mere 2 miles to the east, there also was a steady run of customers at the Osseo Bakery, a main -street anchor for 70 years. Debbie Youngbauer, who Kay Gustafson Metscape Bill McAulj,Q'e A compendium of news, people and events from around the metro area other in a long line of chal- lenges, including supermarket and convenience -store com- petition and the rerouting of I Iwy. 169 from downtown (though Central Avenue still carries 17,000 cars a day past the bakery). She is confident the shop will remain strong. For one thing, she said, she also has a broad clientele; she has sent her julekage — Scandinavian Christmas bread — to a cus- tomer in Texas and her pack- aged pancake mix to Ely, and she daily serves commuters from all over the metro area. For another, she said (her disdain mounting), you won't find things like breads, buns, eclairs, turnovers, quick breads, cakes and pies, bagels and bagel chips, purple -iced dinosaur cookies called "Ar- nies," Russian and Cuban tea Richard Sennott/Star Tribune Debbie and Ron Youngbauer, who own the Osseo Bakery, laughed with a customer during a morning lull. "People are saying, 9 can come here, get what I want, it tastes good, and I don't have to waft in line,' " Debbie said. Her customers seem to agree. Linda Gaffney of Maple Grove said she'll visit Krispy Kreme once the crowds die down. But she had come to the Osseo Bakery for date bars. "I will say the glazed raised here are pretty good," she added. Roseville: Conference of young mayors - Defenders of the open - meeting law might cheer Rose- ville's recent notice that a quo- nim of its City rnnncil may he Bjorn Skogquist, the 23-year- old mayor who has become pals with Roseville's 30-year- old mayor, John Kysylyczyn. Kysylyczyn is expected to bring fellow Council Members Tom Kough and Greg Schroe- der to the event. But official business is unlikely. Plymouth: Revising Paul Bunyan While some in Eagan are celebrating trees in develop- ment. Steve Gardner of Plvm- sion showing nothing but trees being cut down, snapped off, uprooted, carried off and oth- erwise removed to make room for development in Plymouth. The video is accompanied by poignant orchestral music, creating an effect that, frankly, might merit a TV-14 rating. "It goes on for an hour, but people only watch it for two minutes, if that," Gardner ac- knowledges. Plymouth City Manager Dwipht Johnson save he hasn't 19and 20intbe northwest sub- rubs. But he said that Plym- outh has strong regulations for tree prescrva- tion and re- placement. Steyr Beech tly, Gardner taped a clearing operation in 1 and he hopes to break cable -access market. (To sec a video idyl, trap://www.starn it •o /metro) Lakeville: Jusr say Rooming Lakeville I proved a moratoriurn residential devclopote commercial developm the busy intersection o 50 and Interstate I Iwy. even on gravel mining. But the city isn't slat the door on growth.'I'li outs," as CityAdntinist Robert Erickson calls II toriums (there have be crs), will allow officials new projects in line wit term plans, and let t het up with existing apt rlit Lakeville has 42,000 dents, with plans for 70 2020. Voters last week a to build a second high for $59.9 million. But in cent survey, when give) choices about what the least about living in Ial 32 percent of responds. chose growth and crow — Tell us about the issues owl events to et)! :i a 6 at, the intersection of Highway 1 i and Yankee Doodle Road. INSIDE ON PAGE SA Jr.1S..Y Area grads throw their caps in air Graduation time came to high schools south of the river in recent weeks. The classes of 2001 completed high school and are prepar- ing to move on to the next phase in their lives. Eagan, Burnsville and Eastview high schools all had cere- monies June 8. The School of Environmental Studies had its ceremony June 6. Photos of various ceremonies are ligatured inside. INSIDE ON PAGE 17A Bohlig sails past state golf field With a Tiger Woods -like lead, Brian Boltlig made sure he didn't have Jean VanDeVelde-type collaspe at the Class AA state golf tournament last week. The Cretin-Derham Hall senior remembered VanDe- Velde's stunning collaspe at the 1999 British Open where the frenchman blew a three -shot lead on the final hole and then lost the title in a playoff. INSIDE IN SPORTS mourns Realtor bought house slated to become group home By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers Trenton Trail residents who reached into their own pockets to prevent a group home Survey aims to keep firms in Eagan Results shape strategy By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers Eagan business and commu- nity representatives hope to strengthen the city's attraction for its existing businesses by building a three -pronged strate- gy on the back of the newly re- leased results of a business sur- vey. "Our goal was to find what things businesses like about Eagan and what things they found not favorable about the community," said Julie Stack - house, the chair of the Eagan Economic Development Com- mission. SURVEY: To Page 15A or c anges m group ome aws from opening in their. neighborhood hope to continue working for changes so that other. neighborhoods won't find themselves in the same situation. "I feel a lot better,' said Oreatha Howard, who operates a day care out of her home, which is right next to house that was to be- come the group home. "I feel that it's a vic- tory but there is still so much work to be done to get the law overturned. We fought and won the battle, but now it's being pushed in somebody's else's backyard." Mike Murphy, a Realtor who lives iti-the Eagan neighborhood, stepped forward last month to buy the home with the help of his neighbors. HOME: To Page 22A There it goes A crowd of residents and media gathered .hate 7 to watch 249 tons of tree, roots and dirt move a quarter of a mile to be near the future site of the community center In Eagan. The tree stands 40 ,flat and Is 150 pans old. E A" SN — Gout+► crkt 'k>ru. 1S, ZOO 2A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current/Wednesday, May 30, 2001 www.mnSun.com Grandfather Tree project branches out to other communities Process to move tree on Eagan central park site will begin May 31, last two weeks By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers With an effort planted in Eagan but with roots extending across the Twin Cities, the Eagan Foundation has suc- cessfully raised enough to uproot and move the "Grandfather Tree" on the cen- tral park site. "This is just a real gift to the city to have this lone oak tree there next to the community center," said Kay Brown - Gustafson, an. Eagan Foundation mem- ber. "It really turned out to be a great community project and the tree will be a local point for generations to come in Eagan." The root atilt, foundation's plans is to move the tree, which has been dubbed "The Grandiidler '1'ree," about 450 yards from the path of the new road leading in from Yankee Doodle Road to a spot across the Lockheed Martin parking lot closer to the future community center. National Shade Tree Inc., a Texas company that specializes in moving large trees, will come to Eagan Thursday, May 31, to begin the two -week project. The tree, which is 27 inches in diame- ter, will involve digging a hole about 30 feet in diameter that goes down an aver- age of 4 feet. The tree's roots and the soil surround- ing them will then be wrapped with burlap and wire and a platform formed From steel pipes will be used to lift the t roe by hydraulic jacks onto a trailer. The whole package, which will weigh more than 240 tons including the tree, soil and the pipes, will move at a walking speed to its new location. Brown -Gustafson said the actual mov- ing of the tree will begin around June 6 and last about a full day. The public will be able to follow the project from an observation area near the tree or by logging on to the city's Web site at www.cityofeagan.com for updates on the project. The observation area will also include a kiosk with brochures on the project and daily updates will be post- ed near the observation area every after- noon during the move, Brown -Gustafson said. The Foundation has raised close to $21,000 and has commitments for other funds and donations including apart- ments and food for the workers that total about the same amount. A local group called "Ladies Who Do Lunch" will provide a daily picnic lunch to workers moving the tree to help lower the costs of the project, Brown -Gustafson said. That leaves the $13,000 to be raised by the Foundation, but gave organizers enough to sign a contract with National Shade to move the tree. Part of the dona- tions includes the city's commitment to pay for a plaque and a bench next to the tree's new location as well as assisting with site preparation. The Grandfather Tree Society bench will bear the names of those people or groups who have donated $5,000 to the effort. The bronze plaque will be designed to resemble an open book explaining the history of the Lone Oak Tree, Eagan's of ficial symbol. Brown -Gustafson said she has been amazed at not only how the community has taken to the project, but by the num- ber of people outside Eagan who have contributed. "The general thought is that you get lost in the suburbs and there can'treally be a community feeling in the suburbs," she said. "This shows that Eagan is a real com- munity and has always been a communi- ty. This lets people know a suburb can be a home and a community, as well." The tree will be the oldest and largest tree to ever be moved in the state, Brown - Gustafson said. The tree, estimated between 140 and 160 years old, came to city forester Gregg Hove's attention while he was reviewing grading plans for the central park site. While the road leading into the site had been shifted in such a way to avoid elim- inating many trees, the big bur oak was right in the way of the road. C01.00 eror VALID tmll,wr 0083 0080 S100 OFF DEL. 8 INSTL. V.111 Ni w Pis, Sy, ms PurCIL,.r V.1, !Nu June Jrn.: ✓J I FREE Telescope V,,m ra w riJr S,lrm, FREE Steering Wheel .,, Original plans for the road would have taken out a couple dozen trees, but the new alignment for the road will take out only four to six trees, Hove said. Brown said the project is a perfect way to remember the Lone Oak Tree, which has become a symbol of the community since it was cut down in 1984 after state officials declared the dying tree a hazard to motorists. The tree, which was esti- mated to be more than 200 years old, is now the city's official logo. For more information on the Grandfa- ther Tree Project, contact Brown - Gustafson at 651-454-6755. Donations for the effort can also be mailed to Grand- father Tree Project, in care of the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road, Suite 112, Eagan, MN 55122. 20 models from $1,000 - 2.000 26 models from $3,000 - 6,000 SAVE up to S500 SAVE up to S 1,300 20 models from $2,000 - 3,000 10 models from $6,000 and up SAVE u - to S700 SAVES SAVE SAVEI NEW EXPANDED WEEKEND HOURS! FRIDAY: 9-9 • SATURDAY: 9.6 • SUNDAY: 10.6 SPRING SALE!!! Over 100Oplions & ►7 PLAY SYSTEMS "The Swingset Store"'" 1-800-RAINBOW 982-884-4040 w:'l ::"`" zi fit`. 952.884.4040 HOURS: Monday thru Thursday: 9.9 • Friday: 9.9 • Saturday: 9.6 • Sunday: 10.6 ilii6 hool cost 5 million PRESS ,sal for a new ea high school voters this fall, t asks residents $58.5 million des 9-12. school board ;ht to put the n a Nov. 6 spe- vote followed and study in the district, which e 1,800-student at capacity. st way to give options," said board member. esidents resisted .gh schools, sur- ittle support for one large high ollment of 3,000 Oak ee in par will be moved y a3. Zoo` 28 Fundraisers still seeking $12,000 AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER When Kay Brown -Gustafson heard that the city forester had bumped his noggin on a tree branch while mowing, she jokingly wondered whether it was a bad omen in their pursuit of getting a large oak tree moved in Central Park. After all, it bumpy road for Brown - Gustafson and other members of the Eagan Foundation who were trying to raise $55,000 in a matter of s not broken," folly Dahl said Ve truly do need new high school .itter experience lid. iistrict has ele- -tat cover grades for 7-9 and one if voters approve ao1, it's expected of 2004. The ele- ould shift to K-5, would be grades Schools would be reconfiguration p some space in ,hoofs and make :en a possibility, om, the district's dent. the fast-growing is on the rise, o;ections showing of ninth- through -crease by about and the fall of rendum question million, which -.d high school, a on to Oak Hills ...ion in technolo- and S5 million led maintenance had been a bit of a The public can fol- low the project by dropping In at the observation area near the tree or on the city's web site — www.cityofea- gan.com — which will be regularly updated about the tree's progress. about $22,000. That means about $12,000 is still needed. A group of local women, calling themselves "Ladies who do Lunch" will bring a picnic basket meal to the workers daily to help lower the costs. The city will pay for the plaque and a bench, in addition to helping with site work. The plaque by the relocated Grandfather Tree will tell the story of the Lone Oak Tree — a longtime landmark that old- timers affectionately remember because the community used to post notices there and farmers stored their milk at the tree. The dying tree was torn down by the state in 1984, but remains the com- munity's symbol. National Shade will dig out a 30- foot root ball underneath this oak tree and slowly transport it 450 yards to a new spot in Central Park. The public can follow the project by dropping in at the obser- vation area near the tree or on the • w.cit of ea weeks. Some residents saw the proposal as a nutty waste of money, in particu- lar because many trees in Eagan have already been lost to develop- ment. But enough folks liked it that organizers were able to secure money for a down payment to sign on the dotted line with the tree movers. National Shade, a Houston company that specializes in moving large trees, will start the two -week project May 31. The Grandfather Tree, as organ- izers have named it, is 40 feet tall and 27 inches in diameter. The middle-aged bur oak is estimated to be between 140 and 160 years old, according to city forester Gregg Hove, who first thought of moving the tree. A new road would have taken out the tree — and will still take out a handful of trees — but Hove figured this one could be saved. The tree is located along the edge of the Lockheed Martin parking lot near the intersection of Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle roads close to where the city plans city s web site ww y - gan.com — which will be regularly updated with the tree's progress. The project will be most interest- ing to spectators starting around June 6. Opt trim starts Individuals and businesses from Eagan and other cities have donated money. "The people who have been call- ing me all have their special rea- sons for giving to the tree project," Brown -Gustafson said. "One said she didn't ever know the suburbs have soul. One is giving to honor their grandfather. Another person called from St. Paul and said it's the neatest thing he'd seen a com- munity do in a long time." To make a tax-deductible dona- tion to the Grandfather Tree Pro- ject, send a check to the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road Suite 112 No. 215, Eagan, Minn., 55122. Organizers have formed The Century Club, and hope to raise $100 from 100 people. Century Club members will get to put their handprint in a concrete walkway to build a community center. near the tree, while some larger Organizers have about $21,000, donors will have their names on a and commitments for other funds bench. For more information call and donations including lodging Kay Brown -Gustafson at (651) 454- and food for the workers total 6755. SOUTH ST. PAUL OKKS stop sign at Infamous peregrine falcon mother Mae, who host of Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, a' could be banded and so blood sample could t port look on as Fowler holds one of four baby Students are Ryan Connors, left, Heather Kar Bands file i • • opposition GARY DAWSON s .A. = acct .IS. pro• Ihree northern Wisconsin Ojib- the we bands have filed notice of the their intent to sue St. Crc'.: C ^.'.y to c alleging the cotir_t: ccr- to tractual agreement rot t onpoo_.e a and propcs_d cr_ lurr strug iInr c r`:.• 1 hound Rai:.= wa. pIoN Ems-- WeSs S THURSDAY, MAY 17, 2001 LOCAL NEWS Eagan offers small amount to help move tree AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER The Eagan City Council will support an oak tree being relocated in Central Park, but not to the financial extent that organizers wanted. That means the Eagan Foundation needs to raise more money from other sources. The community nonprofit has raised about $20,000 toward its goal of $55,000 to transplant an oak tree from one part of Central Park to another. If the 40-foot-tall tree isn't moved, it will be cut down to make way for a new road. The foundation had hoped to get $20,000 from the city's tree mitigation fund, but many council members felt that was going a little too far out on a limb. There is about $118,000 in the fund, which is money from developers that can only be used for tree projects. Instead, on Tuesday, the council agreed to pay for a bench at the site of the relocated tree and pitch in with some landscaping and site work. The city's contributions will equal about $7,000 including labor. Peggy Carlson, who said the tree could be a focal point for Central Park, was the only council member to support giving more money. Other council members said they liked the pro- ject, but did not believe the $20,000 — particularly. since short notice and didn't leave much time for public input. 'This is a worthy project," said Mayor Pat Awada, who offered to help with fund raising. "I will probably support it personally but there are a lot of people out there who think this is nuts." The city could plant thou- sands of trees for that amount of money, Awada said. The council also suggest- ed the possibility of lending the Foundation money, but didn't vote on the idea because Kay Brown - Gustafson, chair of the Grandfather Tree Project, said the Foundation would have to discuss that. Brown -Gustafson said that this effort isn't city should spend the request was DETAILS To make a tax- deductible donation to the Grandfather Tree ProJeCt, send a check to the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road Suite 112 No. 215, Eagan, MN 55122. For more information, call Kay Brown - Gustafson at (651) 454- 6755. which was torn down in 1984. Longtime resi- dents are nostalgic for the tree, where resi- dents posted official notices and farmers stored their milk to be picked up by a hauler. If the Eagan Foundation can raise the money, National Shade out of Houston, Texas will come to Eagan to move the tree starting at the end of May. The job will take about two weeks and includes digging up a substantial root ball and slowly transporting the tree about 450 yards to its new home. The tree is located near Pilot Knob and Yan- kee Doodle roads on the edge of the Lockheed Martin parking lot near the site of the future community center. The bur oak is estimated to be between 140 and 160 years old — middle- aged for this type of tree — and has a 27-inch diameter. The tree must be moved now because work on the road is scheduled to begin soon. The city planned the road project in a way to minimize tree loss but couldn't design a route that would save all trees. About five trees will be removed. just about saving a tree, but recreating a com- Amy Sherman, who covers Eagan, Inver Grove Heights munity symbol. A plaque will tell the story of s and Rosemount, can be reached at asherman@ the Lone Oak Tree — a community landmark ploneerpress.com or (651) 228-2174. Fading supplies imperil metro area road projects DOUG PETERS STAFF WRITER ith metro -area supplies of gravel, sand and limestone dwindling and being covered over by development, the Twin Cities could face tough choices about future road projects, a Metropoli- tan Council researcher told a council work group Wednesday. Twenty years from now, trans- port costs to bring in aggregates from outside the metro area could add hundreds of millions of dollars Fn thn rust of road nroiectc across the seven -county region, said Gene Knaff, research economist for the Met Council. Under Knaff's projections, the annual cost of aggregate, which makes up about 25 percent of road projects' price tags, could jump by as much as $360 million because of the cost of importing the material from outside the region. Unless budgets for such projects were increased accordingly (taking money away from other areas), the cost of importing aggregates could force governments to cut back on the number of projects undertaken each year, Knaff said. Knaff's report came as part of a Met Council Rural Issues Work Group meeting on the status of months of discussions on the region's sand, gravel and lime- stone supply and what the council should do to safeguard metro -area reserves. The work group began examining the region's aggregate supply last year, after a legislative task force report and a report by the Min- nesota Geological Survey showed that the metro area's aggregate supply was running out fast. According to the geological sur- vey, the region was on pace to run out of aggregates by 2028. But the Met Council's Marcel Jouseau said rapid development and thousands of acres of agricultural preserve land further limits the supply. Jouseau has said that, unless something is done to protect aggregate deposits, the Twin Cities' supply could run out as early as 2016. SAMN DAKOTA COUNTY ( SOUTH ST. PAUL must be ; a valid N Dinner benefit for wildlife set: cr's Beer Minnesota Wildlife Haven, a non- bid numb profit group that works to return Mercha injured and orphaned animals to electron the wild, will hold a benefit dinner accessor from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at home paid for Cooking Cafe Too, two miles south auc; ion s of Interstate 494 on Concord sail... Fur Boulevard in South St. Paul. Tick- I35 i I GI:1 ets for the buffet dinner, which will include entertainment, are $25 in advance or $30 at the door and FAA are tax-deductible. Dinner reservations are required Mullane and times will be assigned. CaII The large (952) 997-6430. southern t -- TIM CARCY, STAFF WRITER Va l iey 1 annual Wt DAKOTA COUNTY tival and regisl.ratic Dakota City opening: A 1900-era I11ar.kharr baseball game will be the highlight event's lot of Dakota City's opening event, way east. Pancakes and a Whole Lot More, north of 1 on Sunday at the Dakota City Iler- Schedul itage Village on the Dakota County silent. aol Fairgrounds in Farmington. animals Breakfast will be served from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the museum, path begii with two baseball games featuring istration the Quick Steps from St. Paul and the societ the St. Croix of Stillwater, sched- Burnsvili uled to start at 10 a.m. and noon stores and on the field south of the museum. the area. Free horse-drawn trolley rides, led ahlc on • by a narrator, will also be avail- (www.mv able during the day. Food tickets All contra are $5 for adults and $3 for chil- the day of dren, with proceeds benefiting the for prizes. village. Call (651) 460-8050. -- UM CAREY, STAFF WRIII It INVER_Gf EAGAN Unct-umN Surplus, unclaimed property up tu•r-,1: i r for auction: Eagan's annual city lir . alcf auction of surplus and unclaimed property will begin with bidding Sal: • at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Eagan la;:h.•:. Maintenance Facility, 3501 Coach- I:rn, man Road. Preview of auction Ifarb, , c items will begin at 9 a.m. lfidders MAY 12, 2001 EAGAN http:www.thisweek•online.com VOLUME 23, NO.11 Storm system improvements could begin this summer by Erin Johnson • Staff Writer Many Eagan residents anx- iously awaiting improvements to floral water drainage systems in the wake of last year's flood could see their hopes realized as early as this summer. During three days of neigh- borhood meetings, the City Council voted on proposals for improvements to storm mitiga- tion systems throughout the city. A preliminary design report was presented to the City Council and residents that identified that have been reviewed until feasibility reports could to cost about $8 million, which areasis less than the for improvements because they identify possible alternatives. of about $10 million, according do not meet city standards. According to Mayor Pat Awada, The council reviewed the the majority of proposed totdMayor that aPaPat Awada. rm'llion Awada in proposed improvements for p each neighborhood, which included increasing the size of pipes and expanding pond areas as well as maintenance improvements to the infrastruc- ture to make the current systems more efficient. The council voted to either approve or deny the proposed improvements, and in a few cases voted to continue discus- sions for certain neighborhoods improvements were approved. Tom Colbert, director of Public Works for the city of Eagan, said the cost of the improvements was calculated using a cost -benefit ratio. "The cost of the improve- ments divided by number of homes that benefttted resulted in anywhere from $2,000 to $60,000 per home." Colbert said. The entire project is expected awaiting the governor's signa- ori final estimate true. If that funding becomes a reality, "The city will have to come up with the balance of the money," Awada said. improvements were approved The city's portion of the by the council, and about $2 funds could possibly come from million worth of improvements selling land in north Eagan that were given a continuance and was earmarked to become a will be brought before the coun- park but resides in an industrial cil again this summer. area. Budget cuts or additional Funding for the project will storm -water utility fees are come from two sources, Awada other options, Awada said. but said. A flood -relief bill to pro- how ever the city chooses to vide Eagan with $5 million has fund the improvements, every passed in both the House and effort will be made to keep tax - the Senate and is currently See Storm, 6A Grandfather Tree project attempts to move old oak to new Community Center by Erin Johnson Stuff Writer The Lone Oak Tree has long been the defining symbol of the city of Eagan. Now the city has the chance to bring a real, live lone oak tree to the new Community Center through the Eagan Foundation's Grandfather Tree project. The tree in question current- ly stands directly in the path of the future road to the Community Center, next to the Lockheed Martin property. Because of the road's design, the oak tree would have to he cut down to stake way for con- struction. Kay Gustaf>ou, project chair and Eagan Foundation hoard member, said the goal of the project is to move the tree to the entrance of the Community Center to act as a focal point for the new building. See Tree, 7A Cascade Bay gets ready for busy summer season with some new features by Erin Johnson tion would actually become. Staff Writer In its first two years of oper- ation, Cascade Bay exceeded 'Doe/Continued a beautiful specirnen of a = .bur oak tree. It's in excellent con- djliao," she said. "1t sits out all alone, so it is a lone oak tree." Gustafson said the city has been hacking a living symbol to mirror the one that is featured on signs throughout the city. "The original Lone Oak 'free was cut down a number years ago, and I think a lot of people felt badly because it was cut down," she said. "We've been missing a big, old, lone oak tare for a num- ber of years. We have nothing that sy1nholites the city in that man- lier." (ivaatson said that the tree sits on a historic piece of property that used to be the Rahn family t:unr'Ihe tree is estimated to b I -III to 160 years old. and is esliected to live to he about 31X) sears old. "It's an old ore by our stan- dards. tau a young, middle-aged nor by lire standards:' she said. Whru (;ustafson beau.' that the tree woad.' be cut down, she asked if there was any way to relocate it without damaging it. She said That Gregg !love, Eagtnl's supervisor of forestry, researched whether the tree could he proved successfully. Ile even- tually directed her to the National Shade Tree Company in Texas, the only company they knew of that could move that type of tree. Representatives of the company came to look at the tree and derided that they could move it without causing any harts. According to Gustafson, this will be the oldest and largest tree ever relocated in Minnesota. 'Me prowess of moving the tree 450 yards is a major one. Huge equipment will be used to move the tree in the same manner a house is moved. 'Hie roots of bur oak trees spread wide instead of deep, so workers will cut a 30-foot circum- ference around the tree and dig a hole about right feet deep. The entire tree will then he lifted out The Pagan Foundation hopes to move this old oak tree to the new Community Center by June. I'/nor, by Erin Johnson of the ground and placed on a flatbed truck, which will transport it to its new home. The tree will be placed on the upper level of the Conmtunity Center grounds so that it's the first thing visitors see when they arrive. "As people drive into the Community Center, there's the symbol of the city," Gustafson said. "It's a real symbol of com- munity." The chances of the tree surviv- ing are very good, she said, and the tree company assured that her incredible care will be used to move the tree. The new site will even be prepared with the same conditions the tree is living in now, including soil, drainage and orientation to the sun. There is a certain urgency to this project, as road construction is set to begin mid -summer. 'The prune time to move the tree is when the leaves harden out, and before the root system grows," she said. "lire last week in May and the first week in June is prime tree -moving time, so we have between now and the 28th of May to get enough money, and hopefully the city's support, to move this tree." The Eagan Foundation, a non- profit organization dedicated to meeting the needs of the commu- nity, decided to take on the proj- ect, which Gustafson called not a together a book that tells the story grassroots effort, but rather a of the Lone Oak Tree. "tree -roots effort." The foundation's goal is to They named it the Grandfather raise $35,000 from private contri- Tree project after Gustafson butions, and they will ask the City remarked that the tree looked like Council to contribute $20,000. something her grandfather would Gustafson made it clear that this have planted in his front yard. project will in no way cost tax - "You honor your relatives, and payers. The stoney they are we need to honor something this requesting would come from the old and this beautiful." she said. city's tree mitigation fund, which Spearheaded by Gustafson, the is contributed to by developers foundation has embarked on a and contractors when they must fund-raising campaign to raise the cut down trees during construc- $55,000 needed to move and tion. replant the tree. Money raised will So far, the foundation has also be used to construct a bench raised $20,(XX), including a recognizing donors, and to put Sao Tree, eA SAYE041) on WBU Seed Tubes Finch Feeders and other selected feeders! clad (Duds clAkimitecr Co. Rd. 42 & Co. Rd. 5/Burrrsvile/(952) 435.0491 f, PAID ADVERTISEMENT Bank Repossessed Cars to be Sold Directly to the Public Burnsville Dealership Disposing of 101 Bank Repos and Other Used Vehicles for Only $59 Then Start Making Payments* RIIRNSVILLE, MN - Rank Repossessed cars and trucks are among the most hunted -for bargains in the automotive industry. Unfortunately for the general public, they're also the hardest to cone hy. der•• quality service and the Ira Nuance Every bank repossessed and other terms possible. Ma. hoick said. pre -owned vehicle will be available "We'll have over $4 million w for just a $59 possession fee* then financing available Ibr this ...wilt, so start making payments. "It's that chances are we can arrange fmanc simple," said Mr. Lorick. 'To make ing for just about anyone who is Ranks often unload repos- 1 employed, regardless lit past adnrinn� .1 L iO + L,ut..n„ down. it was one of about 70 cars lining Concord Street on St. Paul's vvu •� " Ifs not easy getting ready for Dalai Lama From planning security to providing tea for his hotel room, nearly 300 volunteers have worked tirelessly to make his visit go smoothly. HANNAH ALLAM STAFF WRITER From triple -checking security measures to preparing a special soup, Twin Cities volun- teers have sweated over the details of the Dalai Lama's visit for two years. When His Holiness arrives in Minnesota next week, organizers hope the behind -the -scenes work of nearly 300 volunteers culminates in a seam- less, seemingly effortless event. The visit is expectedto draw more than 20,000 meaning traffic, parking, crowd control secu- rity could all get complicated. "I think everybody involved in the planning process has woken up in the middle offot he the gniht " said Nicolle Nelson, spokeswoman t. "We've got to tie down all those little details." INSIDE Schedule and ticket Information. Page 10A-11A A primer on the history and beliefs of Tibetan Buddhism. Faith, Page 10E The Dalai Lama, whose The Dalai Lama, whose schedule is already booked until 2004, took notice of the Twin Cities largely because of former St. Paul resident Marilyn Mason, who served as chairwoman of the Tibetan -American Foundation of Minnesota. The foundation is co -hosting the event with the Tibetan Association of Minnesota. Mason took a scrapbook filled with photos of the vibrant local Tibetan community to the Dalai Lama's office in India. Day after day, she VISIT CONTINUED ON 10A 150-vear01d oak New road threatens� '�1ONt we SS c between 140 and 160 years old, which is con- sidered middle age for a bur oak. tree grows in Eagan, with a yellow ribbon Moving an oak that measures 27 inches in A company from "true- frsshly nd to its thicktrunk. old tree go nl g me dous" undertaking.crown of 45 mpfe y is a ous- ton, Texas, called National Shade, which spe- bowpla S. a sign that this big spend about plaf t. In fact, it's going about yards. cializes in moving large trees, will spe If the community can raise enough money, d put down roots The Eagan Foundation is`soliciting donations the 40-foot tall bur oak will an be raised from two weeks here starting the last week ofaY• one corner of Central Park in another spot in the park. The tree must get to foot the $55,000 bill and has about $13,000 a move on to make way for a new road. City TREE CONTINUED ON 7A forester Gregg Hove estimates that the tree is AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER 1998, undocumented immigrants have nail a hard time getting driver's licensees Min- nesota. But advocates are hoping persuade theyy would make roaease those ds safer for very- they say one. with police Two organizations are working chiefs in St. Paul and Mthatapoliswoulda allow ilot project for later this yearapply f some immigrants in both cities to ap: oi licenses and follow their progress. Advocates will present details of the "I Streets proposal Sunday at Our Lao o Guadalupe Church on St. Paul's West;' i The sponsors are Jewish Community and Isaiah, an organization made p0 Pot'Twin Cities and St. Cloud congregations. groups have been active in immigrant issues. The idea of easing the way driver's socumenl cease ed immigrants to apply forver may seem a contradiction — obtaining a legs LICENSES CONTINUED ON 12A CRAIQ OORCK/ PIONEER PRESS The nonprofit Eagan Foundatiol hopes to ra150 money to move this 140- to .60 year -old Working o,r project are : •:rr left, Greg; ;c ve Chelsea Luse, It Brown -Gustafson and Barbara Luc • SAINT PAUL PIONEER PRESS FROM PAGE lA _•O rchestra programs often have .1' 9,7 an overriding theme, or at least an organizing principle. This "weekend's St. Paul Chamber 0r- '-1chestra concerts are, by contrast, !-tea real potpourri. The results are by and large :...,,,delightful, even if things don't al- „ t. ways fit together. A composition - by Peter Schickele and a perfor- •..•mance by Jean -Yves Thibaudet are the highlights. tai^r S the crew: . . s.enter- - .tnas and char - Tree ♦ CONTINUED FROM 1A - so far. The nonprofit will soon ask the City Council to contribute ;,,about $20,000 from developers' fees that are earmarked for tree projects. Some council members = expressed mixed views on whether •' ".it's worth it to spend that much on • 'a lone tree, although they said they need more information. • If the project comes together, • "' here's how the tree will be moved: i'l`',the crew will dig a hole 30 feet in '---diameter and about 5 to 8 feet "l deep and wrap the tree's ball of with burlap and wire. Steel 4' 'pipes will then be placed under- -•'""neath the chunk to create a lifting • «platform. Using hydraulic jacks �,�-• and steel beams, the tree will be .lifted onto a trailer and stood up- ' right. The tree, soil and pipes com- l.) , bined will weigh about 250 tons, or : :about the same as 34 empty school v- 11" buses. Traveling at about walking "Speed, the trailer will amble • across the adjacent Lockheed Martin parking lot to the tree's • -new home. David Cox, general manager at National Shade, has been moving trees of this size and larger since ,,..1994. Cox has moved about 100 giant trees, and reports that he :has yet to lose one. The process !,-allows the roots to regenerate, t --which is why the trees survive, he Large trees have been moved • z^'for many years in other parts of 1•� the country but it's a unique pro - To help A tax-deductible donation to the Grandfather Tree Pro- ject can be made by send- ing a check to the Eagan Foundation, 1960 Cliff Lake Road Suite 112 No. 215, Eagan, MN 55122. Seven people or organizations that give $5,000 or more will have their names on a com- memorative bench. For more information, call Kay Brown -Gustafson at (651) 454-6755. a way to honor the history of the Lone Oak Tree, an Eagan land- mark that was perhaps 200 years old when it was cut down in 1984. For many years the tree was used as a spot to post official town notices; farmers used to store cans of milk in a tub under the tree so a hauler could pick them up and deliver them to a creamery. The Minnesota Transportation Department considered the tree, which was dying from years of road salt, a hazard to motorists. The city told the state it was bark- ing up the wrong tree, but eventu- ally the relic had to go. The Lone Oak tree is now the city's official logo and a slice of the tree is on display at City Hall. ject for Minnesota, said Gary Johnson, an urban forestry profes- sor at the University of Minnesota. Eagan's city forester started to think about the tree's precarious future last fall when he noticed that maps showing the develop- ment of a new road would take out some trees. A path was chosen that would take out the least amount of trees — about five — but Hove wondered if one that stood alone could be rescued. Hove talked to tree experts and did some tests to determine the condition of the tree, which is in good health. The Eagan Founda- tion became involved because it wanted to plant a tree in the park. Last year, Eagan bought the land for a park and plans to build a community center along with oth- er amenities on the site. Kay Brown -Gustafson, a founda- tion member, sees this project as A bronze plaque rr ble an open story placed by this tree a tion and tell the sto: Oak Tree in additior names of the donors also be put near ti the names of big do Like all suburbs, ' many trees to de Hove sees this as a i ty to save a tree. ". destruction nowada see some preservati Amy Sherman, who co' Grove Heights and Rost reached at asherman Ldpioneerpr 228-2174. ISPCO mixes sublime and silly sometimes both at same time WILLIAM RANDALL BEARD SPECIAL WHAT: St. Paul Chamber 10 THE PIONEER PRESS Orchestra WHEN: Friday night CAPSULE: Peter Schickele's 'Thurber's Dogs' stole this rather eclectic show. REPEAT PERFORMANCE: 8 p.m. today at Ordway Center, 345 Washington St., St. Paul TICKETS: $55-$15 CALL: 651-291-1144 5590 222nd St. E. Hampton, MN 55031 • 651-438-3886 Business office • 651-437-8887 sales office THE LARGEST DISPLAY IN MINN BACKYARD BUILDING SYSTEMS, INC 1141) AMERICANA May S FHB ICiC Dealer Locations Nearest YOU: Ken's True value The Tree House Wacouta Motors River Falls, WI Hastings, MN Red Wing, MN 715-425-1775 651-437-7625 651.368.8138 HOURS: M-F 9-5/SAT. 10-4 MN L This is a dark, brooding work; even the scherzo 7.:.. maniacal qua''-±y play with area_: -..:..._.::, and - r1 Nokia 5190 Retail Price Instant Savings Frla Cost __.-.-r Case E a r 2A May 24, 2003 THISWEEK EG When needs are great, retreat to the loving care o ce j- omes uite. The finest in residential Hospice Care Respite Care Long-term Care 27890 Natchez Ave. Elko, MN 55020 952.652.9120 651-686-6225 (Eagan) 952-435-1898 (Lakeville) "A Proven Learn To Swim System Since 1990" www.familyswim.com • E-mail info: FSS@means•net $50 OFF BODY LABOR Any b0Y Labor Repairs Over $!SO Seniors Meet and greet Photo h: Rrck Orndorf Eagan seniors got acquainted with the new senior center in the Lone Oak Room at the Community Center May 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors were able to see the new facility and learn about new opportunities. Dining &- Entertainment Review/from previous erotic if not prurient. Just at the peak of their passion, she looks over at a huge apartment build- ing: "All of those windows .:. all those people peering out from behind the blinds, the curtains, the shutters. My grandmother ... is in there somewhere." Grandmother, dead these many years. Perfect. Juska is very good at sex, at literature, but the very best at living life and commenting on it. When I first picked up the book I was frankly interested in her sex life having known her (not in the Biblical sense) all those years ago. But what most interested me about this fascinating book was Juska's take on life in general, this book being a serious mem- oir about her entire life and what made her what she is and not just a romp through a variety of bedrooms and back porches of museums. I loved reading about her parents, about her son Andy who had some teen -sue ',mt.- BUFFET'657 ALL YOU CAN EAT 11 am - 8 pm Daily includes beverage under 12 $369 KFC LAKEVILLE 952-892-1114 Hours: Dining Room 11 am - 9 pm; Drive Thru 11:00 am - 9:30 pm IOGART S In the Apple Place Bowl PLACE Saturday, May 24 THE DWEEBS Special Guest: Maximum Security $7 Cover at 6 p.m. The Dweebs at 9:30 p.m. q Wednesday, May 28 \`,z men M:Taps _.. "`16 s io am- Discounted Appetizers 7-9 p.m.>--r 9110 p,"'" -7-1 LOVE TRAIN � $3 Cover at 7 p.m. Music at 9 p.m. HAPPYHOm PRICES ALL DAY, ALL NIGHT, PRIZES NIGHTLY! Friday, May30 y� c THISWEEK May 24, 2003 1 IA Fit Blockbuster Video, 2075 Cliff Rd., Eagan, MN ALL RENTED MOVIES & GAM E O O• OFF MARKED PRICE See Store for Retails! Thousands of Movies, Vi o Games & TOYS! Friday to Monday (May 23rd to 26th) (651) 452-8534 5 2M355/2UE 11117to, (4_ JN gan edition CURRENT Andy BlenkushlSun Newspapers A grand opening march Hundreds of residents turned out Sept. 27 for the grand opening of Eagan's new community center. For more from the event, which feat- ued a grand march of community organizations, see Page 15A. Learning about terrorism Large-scale exercise brings Dakota County public safety agencies together to test reaction to bioterrorism Last-minute gift sla to protect land fore Patrick McCarthy donates conservation easement to 34 acres, owned by late brother BY JOSHUA NICHOLS Sun Newspapers Dakota County has been work- ing for years on a program to pro- tect open space and farmland in the county, but one of the biggest advances in that area was the re- sult of a last minute offer from an Eagan farmer. Patrick McCarthy recently gave to the county a conservation easement to a 34-acre parcel of farmland previously owned by his late brother, James. The ease- ment on the land, which is valued at $3.4 million, means the land cannot be developed and must re- main in a natural state. The donation developed at the last minute for Dakota County. McCarthy sought to donate the easement on the land, located northwest of the intersection of Wescott Road and Lexington Av- enue, to offset estate taxes he owes to the IRS after the death of his brother. To meet an IRS and tax credit deadline, McCarthy had to make the donation by the end of the day Sept. 22, but since the county learned of the potential only the week before, th Board had to meet in an emergency meeting to the donation. The land includes a s oak woods and old far Along with James Mc parcel of land, McCart about an additional 100 land to both the east and t of his late brother's prope land was passed down to Carthys by their great-g ther, who bought the la Henry Sibley, who went o come Minnesota's first go Although the county r control over the land, the ship and tax liability for t remains McCarthy's respo ty, said Rollie Crawfor Carthy's attorney. The easement would be nent and if the land wer sold, the easement would t to the new owner. Crawford said the exa benefit McCarthy will r from the donation has n been determined. "He's been working to s land preserved," Crawford "It's what he wants and happy to get this done." LAND: To Pag ple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current/Thursday, Oct. 2, 2003 he group that sings together, stays tog Women of Note has been g around community for more than three years BY JOSHUA NICHOLS Sun Newspapers hen Eagan resident Thera Burtt attended the first meet- ing of the Eagan Women of e choir group had no accompa- rector, piano or place to meet. le did I know I would soon be fill - of those openings," Burtt said laugh. Burtt agreed to become di - of the fledgling group that day late and still is in that position today. group has seen its numbers grow hat first meeting. About 18 women d up for that first meeting and the now numbers around 40 members. women in the group have grown ver the years and have forged re- ships that will last forever, Eagan nt Tracy Gardiner said. e all love music and we are all n," Gardiner said. "That's two very common bonds. It makes it a very roup to be with." ere has been some coming and over the 3 1/2 years since the n Women of Note's first perfor- :e in March 2000. Inver Grove Its resident Linda Green, who is lent of the group, said that about of those original 18 are still with •oup. e group sings everything from tra- ial choir music and gospel songs to tongs from musicals and contempo- songs. Except for the summer ths, it meets every Monday at Peace rmed Church, 2180 Glory Drive, z. Submitted photo Members of the Eagan Women of Note gather after a performance earlier this year. The group has been singing at events throughout the Twin Cities for more than three years. The group plays to various audiences around Eagan and the Twin Cities, in- cluding nursing homes, community events and grand openings. For Eagan resident Becky Sowada the chance to join the group was an opportu- nity to connect with something she missed from her past. "I really missed singing with a group," Sowada said. "I hadn't had that opportunity since college." It had been even longer since Eagan resident Janel Lavansky had sung. "I hadn't sung since high school," La- vansky said. "I had always liked to sing though and I liked the fact that this was uaranteed Best Value in Hearing Aid Care ,rklWide 'earing d value in Hearing Aid Technology e specialize" in �1 e virtually invisible BBB mpletely-in-canal aids! —T— insurance Provider UCARE, MA, etc. FREE HEARING EVALUATIONS • Prices starting at $250 • In -home service available. Interest -free financing. • 45 day, 100% money back trial 2 metro locations: Little Canada • Lakeville 952-469-8555 UNSOLD ORDERS School Model SEWING MACHINES a new group. I felt like my lack of expe- rience wouldn't matter and that we'd all be starting out on the same foot." A music major in college, Gardiner hadn't sung in about six years when she joined the group. For a trained singer like herself, joining a group featuring mostly novice singers was a lesson in pa- tience, she said. "I found my love for music is stronger then my need for perfection," Gardiner said. "We learned to listen to one anoth- er. Singing in a group isn't about indi- vidual voices, but about blending voices together as a group. "It takes time to learn how to do that and you have to get to know the voice next to you." Joining a choir group where some members have much more singing expe- rience than others can be tough, Lavan- sky said. "I was a little intimidated at first," La- vansky said. "At that first meeting when they handed out the music, I thought to myself, `I don't know if I'll come back next week. — But But the accepting and supporting na- ture of the other members of the group • kept bringing h back every week. Green, who al rience singing, group with otli singers is good e "It's good trai learn an awful 1 people who have The group al: nist, Kellie LeCk has made over th "I'm not sure are right now v said. "She is a just has an incre The group ad bers as part of September and members in Jam ning a fundraisi and is also work fundraiser. While the nam Eagan Women of have to live in Ea Inver Grove Hei€ tures members f mount, South St. ter. "We joke that where Eagan is it," Green said "Or have hear a Rosemount re communication Ruf said tha memories of h: don't include si "A lot of th from the times ward," Ruf sai get to know the would get to kn not know Beck out together w: better." For Sowada gives her more perience. "It's very th hard to sing an time. When I le ving home wit face." For more i Women of N syruf@yahoo.c er so sa e xp ni of h. 0 e 1 d d n WITH SEW and SERGE STITCHES NEW IN FACTORY SEALED CARTONS Egan undation Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun*Currentahursday, Oct. 2 Photos by Andy Blenkush/Sun NE A grand grand opening Hundreds of people turned out to celebrate the grand opening of Eagan's new community on a chilly Saturday afternoon Sept. 27. Above, those turning out listen to local dignitaries. Jordan Drenttel, dressed for the cool temperatures, participated in the grand march of comn organizations. ee 20% on all Solimar products and services! , _ - i/allev/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current(Thursday. Oct. 2, 2003 wanted to preserve instead of see devel- oped. The land is also part of the "Eagan core greenway" the city is working with the Friends of Patrick Eagan Park to de- velop. The greenway is a stretch of open space running from the McCarthY prop- erty north of Patrick Eagan Park down through the city to Lebanon Hills Re- gional Park at the Eagan/Apple Valley border. The greenway consists of both publicly owned and privately held land. "I think this solution ends up to be a win -win for both Mr. McCarthY and the county," said Commissioner Nancy Schouweiler just before the commission- ers voted unanimously to accept the easement donation. The property is the subject of a law- suit involving an alleged purchase agree- ment with Tollefson Development Co., said Mike Ring, assistant Dakota County attorney. The Minnesota Court of Ap- mcern commissioners had Jn the donation following a sentation at the Dakota nmunity Development in office was public access c likely won't notice any le McCarthY is allowed to on the preserved land, they accessible to the public un- iy works out an agreement said Kurt Chatfield, the or planner. said the land has been part y's farmland inventory and ece of open space that both and the city of Eagan have Businessmen range lives. th loved ones! $50 K ++ income ;werto.com/tIc2 )0/Week Without Recruiting be willing to commit $200 one time - to $800/month - guaranteed? 'state, Inc. >interstate.com • 612-242-2142 (lize in the development and hosting of isiness applications. Competitive rates all our services, hosting reseller program web site developers. mlan e igageNetwo ing.com Network Inc. • 952-345-2730 al mortgages from the comfort of home. it loan application and get a response in Dan officer will personally handle yourfiles npany you to closing. All credit types and ints welcome. Create Your Career! PT/FT View & join over the internet! NationWideCoveraae net CaII 952-200-0482 ACCOUNTING; -41 www.uniqueremodel.com Full service remodeler specializing iin Whole house remodels, Additions, Upper ts, Porches/Decks, Kitchens, Baths. Free estimates 763-533-1375 Lic. 20071644 Business Compunion the Small Business & Self -Employed with bookkeeping needs for over 20 years. a, Dependable! www.SmBsComp.us i-3869 tka Accounting Services >le Accounting for the Small Business www.mtka-acctg.com 1-8233 ..'!nc.7m 612-866-2583 i.., crnaII Rusiness, peals has Tollefson's claims on the land although the lawsuit is subject to addi- tional appeals, Ring said. "There is the possibility that an ap- peal could go against the landowner, but there would be no financ1al riskrt to said. county were that to happen," "The only risk would be losing the ease- ment. The county would not have to ap- pear in court and would have no legal fees because the land would continue to be owned by Mr. McCarthy." Commissioner Patrice Bataglia, whose district the property is within, said she was concerned that since the proposed donation came forward so quickly, that the public hadn't had the chance to give feedback on the issue. However, both Chatfield and Assistant Eagan Administrator Dianne Lord said that when issues concerning the land have come up in the past, no one has op- posed preserving the land. "This land is well known in the city of Eagan as perhaps the city's last farm," Chatfield said. "No issues have ever been raised against this." Although the Eagan City Council did not have a chance to weigh in on the issue, Lord said that in a way the city had supported preserving the land because it voted at its Sept. 16 meeting to support McCarthy's application to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' Lakewinds Natural Foods and Home www.Iakewinds.com • 952-473-0292 Lakewinds is a member -owned co-op, and is open to the public. Our site contains information on food safety, recipes, and products. Shop on-line for healthy home products. Search for classes on natural foods cooking, gardening and health and wellness. Herbalife Independent Distributor Contact Al Hawkins For Products or Business Opportunity Call (763) 546-8085 Or Visit: www.Herbal-Nutriti0n.net/AI Hawkins Distinctive Lodges www.distinctivelodges.com 218-388-2296 Great places to stay in Northern Minnestota C • MPUTER CONSULTING PCResults Network and PC solutions for your home and business 763-458-1907; PCResults @ attbi.com MERCHANDISE EJ's Sunglasses Citizenship Metro Greenways Progw preserve the land. Schouweiler referer of Patrick Eagan Park vation groups that havE preserve McCarthy's l� ural spaces in Eagan. "I know a number ( within the Eagan area ive of Mr. McCarthy protect his property," "They've been workir on his behalf." Jack Conrad, co-( committee for Friends Park, attended the me( ed after the board vot( Carthy has often talk( see the land preserves "This is a great stet said. "We're obvious this has happened." Although the land by James McCarthy acres, including a slit Wescott Road near C tary School, not all ject to the easement. The 34 acres cov( includes only land Road and also exclu( on the northwest poi where the city is set water ponds. From Page 3A Omer -Ali said the most challenging part of studying is understanding the difference between the different branch- es of the government. The students also work on dictation, where they practice writing a sentence that is dictated to them in English. When they take their citizenship exam, they have to prove that they are proficient in reading, writing and speak- ing English, Ray said. Finally, the class reviews questions on their personal information. The applica- tion form to petition for naturalization is called the N-400 and the students will be questioned extensively on their applica- tion during the em Each exam is do interview fashion immigration office. Ray said that in 400 form the INS ( the applicant's p( moral character United States. The students ar( six and 15 of the tions at random ar percent correct to Finally, the int( tion to the appli( lish. The entire te: utes. Koering said the citizenship ch ground in civics ( ther an ABE or Er guage licensure 1 ULLETIN Bc 952-392-688 1, NO. NNE cat tennis oiling Wildcat tennis team c matches in a row ow start to their season. 28A art students has han enough rea- the same class 'ear after year. by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS The city of Eagan has spent the last several years trying to provide a welcoming place for seniors to meet, and now with the opening of the new Community Center, seniors finally have a room of their own. The new senior center will be based in the Lone Oak Room of the Community Center and Thisweek www.thisweek Cornniunity Center offers Eag seniors a room of their own The Lone Oak Room will be a hub of activities geared toward ser, will act as a homebase for sen- best, with no central meeting addition, the city offer ior gatherings. place. Programs at Oak Woods trips and planned acti "The Lone Oak Room is part of Eagan, O'Leary Manor and seniors. of the Community Center, just the McDonald's of Eagan Club But it has been an i as seniors are part of the com- have been around for several goal for the city to hav munity," said Cathy Bolduc, years, but did not offer pro- specifically for senioj program and events supervisor grams on a weekly basis. cially with the steady for the Parks and Recreation In 2001, the city designated in Eagan's senior pc Department. "By no means do Wednesday mornings as a time Bolduc said. we want to be isolated in that for seniors to gather in the "Eagan is aware that space. They're an important Community Room at City Hall. ior -population is gro part of the community." Participants would get together general, not only 1 In past years, activities for for card games, crafts and cof- nationwide. We have seniors have been sporadic at fee from 9 a.m. to noon. In See Seniors, 5A Embracing open space Friends of Patrick Eagan Park and members of the Sierra Club's North Star Chapter celle- Photo by Rick Ormioll brated Earth Day with a public outreach event April 26. Volunteers knocked on doors and delivered over 500 yard signs proclaiming "We can do better: We Can Embrace Open Space" in reference to efforts to create the Eagan Core Greenway. Photo by 1 Meghan Glass stands map marking the collet have shown an interest ing her attend their prof Eagan studeri seeks funds t attend uniqut school progr EHS student will tt college -level course, Yale that focus on politics by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Not many teens would great lengths to attend sui school. But Meghan Glass, Eagan_ is not vn„r 3, 2003 THISWEEK c 1,003 NEON SXT � ►'1. hz D PLAYER, PWR. (WIND., LOCKS, MIRRORS), EYLESS, CAST WHEELS, REAR SPOILER 894& MO $199 ISH/1ST & LIC ONLY S0 CASH/FEES INCLUDED 5i1 I.. Discount late Count ss/CDL - 300$1 1 599 $15,950 - $1,115 - $2,500 - $736 103 DURANGO 4X4 SXT AUTO, AIR, CD PLAYER, PWR. (WIND., LOCKS, MIRRORS), FENDER FLARES, CAST WHEELS ASB SPECIAL 115 48 MO CASH/IST & LIC ONLY $335 $0 CASH/FEES INCLUDED etail $31,155 kg. Disc - $295 ebate - $4,500 liscount $2.861 ewA A A John AdalitiCte D0Q6/ di3 BURNSVILI Our Best Incentive Program Eve 0% for 60 mo. Lease Loyalty up to $4500 70/70 Dodge. 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Discount - $1,730 Rebate - $2,500 Discount - $1.861 Business/CDL - 300 1 9,499 2003 DURANGO 4X4 SLT V8, AUTO, REAR HEAT & AIR, 7 PASSENGER, CD PLAYER, PWR (WIND., LOCKS, MIRRORS, SEAT) FENDER FLARES, CAST WHEELS ESQ $JND $ 59 4& MO $379 SO CASH/1ST & LIC ONLY $0 CASH/FEES INCLUDED Retail $33,670 Pkg. Disc - $520 Rebate - $4,500 Discount - $3.051 R„clnass%CDL - 300 25,599 $ PWR. DOOR/LIFTGATE, 3.8 V6,AUTO, AIR, CC SEAT, CAST WHEELS, KEYLESS, PWR. (WIND.,1O REAR HEAT & AIR, QUAD SEATS,SUNSCREE ositurfricasviIBT a $369 . $31 SO CASH/1ST & LIC ONLY $0 CASH/F Retail Pkg.. Discount Rebate Discount Business/COL - 2'2_8 2003 DOD SPRINTE COMMERCIAL OR PASSENOI 3 WHEEL BASES, 2 ROOF UNMATCHED INTERIOR VOLUII POWER TRAIN, 22 N "MINNESOTA'S EXCLUSI' -s/from 1A the last few years," she They've been wanting a regular place to meet before the referendum Community Center]." ;o Danner, an Eagan t who has been actively 3 with senior issues, m they were planning mmunity Center, the said, `Now's the she said. "We should - re to be going to e and Burnsville." the opening of the tk Room, seniors will regular meeting place ivities geared specifi- vard them. senior center will city to expand and its offerings to sen- t Jeff Asfahl, superin- of the Parks and )n Department. opportunities avail - seniors have been g over the last few now with the avail- ' this, things are real - to flourish," he said. .!dnesday morning )w they'll be called Oak Rockers, will but several new •e also forming. ;tivities will now be such as cards and -afts, history and 'ng and quilting. A n and sympathy send out cards for are celebrating a )r have suffered a rganizers are look - some exercise pro- Subnutted photo Rental Coordinator Melissa Wind, left, Building Maintenance Engineer Mike Sipper, middle, and Community Center Manager Sandy Breuer take stock of the new Lone Oak Room. grams. Bolduc said that seniors are sometimes hard to plan for because they cover a wide range of ages. "When you talk about sen- iors, you're basically talking about three generations of people," she said. "So trying to program for all of them is a challenge, but a very fun chal- lenge." That's why input from sen- iors in the community is so important, she said. "I rely very heavily on feedback from seniors when programming," she said. "There's no way for me to say, `Here's what you want to do.' I need to hear from them, and I think that's key." Bolduc has also been get - ALL CREDIT .. MISTAMPRq iNctCAW, kiFirsp ting help from the Senior Program Development Team, a team of eight seniors who have been working to prepare and schedule for the Lone Oak Room. "They've been involved in deciding things from fabrics for the furnishings to when the card group will meet. They've been really putting a lot of work into the development of the program for the Lone Oak Room," Bolduc said. The Lone Oak Room is located on the first floor of the Community Center and has a kitchenette, bathroom and fireplace. "It has a phenomenal view," Bolduc said. "It over- looks the patio, and beyond that is the pond. It's got a the Apple Auto Group V6, AT, AC, PW, PL, NV, CC #35926A nay aID E �y cozy, homey feeling." Initially, the room will only be open when activities are planned, but eventually it might be open on a daily basis for seniors to just come and hang out, Bolduc said. Danner said after two years of waiting for the Community Center to be built, it's exciting that seniors finally have a common meeting place. "When you retire, you aren't at work where you talk to other people every day. It can get kind of lonely if you don't get out and mingle with other people," she said. "That's what the senior center is all about — being able to talk to people your own age who are going through the same things." 4 'Annual Percentage Rate hhhlthhhhhhhitill EG THISWEEK A "Get Acqt will be held for Lone Oak Ro Community Cen from 11 a.m. to 4 will be able to facility and lean opportunities. A will be filled w supply ideas for such as craft sup books, and cards, Oak Room Show( at 9:30 a.m. For more infon. the senior center oi grams, call the 1 and Recreation D( (651) 675-5500. Erin Johnson eagan.thiswee inc. com. . / • Home Equity Line of Credit as low a 4 . APR Ca11 651-686-0100 to apply or apply on-line at www.mnc . Membership is Open to the Public! 1110 OVER P.RE.p 0� WINEDICARSIKATRUCKSIT®ICN . * SE WOM1 V6, AT, AC, PW, PL, TW, CC #36313A tD TAURUS GL $2,595 '95 INTREPID ✓6, AT, AC. .,3 W cc $2.995 '97INTRFPID V6, AT, AC, PW,PL,1W,CC #6487ZB $4.995 inn WNW u9 AT, AC, RWD, 4-DOOR #6537XA $6.9 AT. AC. V6. AT Ar )03 THISWEEK EG Zrom 1A ises awaited the destination, howev- we were going to but those particular bad weather. It was had these winds, day it was colder in Minnesota," he ;y arrived in Panuco, i found themselves e of an unexpected ebration. the Carnival at a dif- than in New Orleans, Trouble getting to the ;aid. "And we could Ake at 5 a.m. the next 1 headed to the river. tcked a tent and dried se they didn't make )ne day, he said. "There are no rapids. it's just a flat river, so it was very hard," he said. "We were going to stop in one place to camp, and later on we learned that that place had alligators. Alligators don't usual- ly live in the river, but in lakes and lagoons. But sometimes they come into the river." They ended up completing the trip in 10 hours, he said, which probably was much longer than it took his ancestors. "The last three hours we had very strong winds and waves of about 2 feet," he said. "The waves were coming into the kayak. It was very scary." Even though he's an avid kayaker, the 10-hour trip was still a challenge. "We were really tired, and not only because it was 10 hours, but because of the strong winds," he said. "But the people were so nice. Everybody tried to help and be friendly." ace and Air Conditioner COMBO SALE A 95% Efficient Amana Furnace and a SEER Air Conditioner and Get a $400 Rebate PLUS $100 Minnegasco and $200 Electric Rebate For a Total Rebate of $700! v vvurat71-0 6950 W. 146th St., #106 is Built Better Than it Has To Be iy Etienne is no stranger to adventure. He was born and raised in Tampico, Mexico, but has also lived in France, Germany and several states in America. He has completed many kayaking trips, and in 1988 he helped rescue baby green turtles after an oil spill in Mexico. "The crude oil was coming to the shores, so the little turtles had absolutely no chance of sur- viving," he said. "We took all the little turtles and put them back in the sea so they would survive. I was so pleased to hear when I went back this time that they had 1,800 turtles, up from about 300" Etienne eventually settled in Minnesota because of his wife, whom he met while on a camp- ing trip in Mexico. "My wife is from Fargo, and her family moved to Minneapolis, so that is why we Heating c el. c'ondittoni� gg "FREE" ESTIMATES APPLE APPLE VALLEY HEATING & MR CONDITIONING OF APPLE VALLEY INC. 952-431 -709 9 IenrntivP f nnerPtp I .sn(1cr� '" FIT wik Kerb is a unique method of installing continuous will install corative )ncrete landscape edging at economical costs. a -estigious alternative to conventional plastic edging, timbers or icks for your projects. Wh ou should consider Kwik Kerb decided to come here," he said. The couple moved to Eagan in 1990. "I love Minnesota. We don't think we'll ever move," he said. And he swears he doesn't miss the warm, tropical weather of Mexico. "We have the four seasons here," he said. "I really think that if Vivaldi were alive, he would come here to live in Minnesota. The landscape in Tampico is beautiful. It's tropical. But it never changes." After completing the trip, Etienne said he feels more of a connection to his ancestors. "I have a little more respect for early settlers," he said. "Every time you hear about your ancestor's doing something you think, 'That wasn't really hard.' But we realized it was very, very hard." Etienne said the trip made him realize how, 200 years ago, 4 y ,r Spring Celebrai Open Hou May 5th - 9th titjj!gu people had to do a lc physical exercise. "I would recommend everybody," he said. should do at least once life do something tl ancestors did, somethiT cal" His brother, howevf share his enthusiasm foi eling trip. "He told me I was die, because of the v the alligators," he said told him, I want to something fun. I don't die at a hospital, I want a lake by a park, do thing fun." But he did survive said, and is now busy book and planning adventure. • Erin Johnson eagan. thisweek@ ecm- • 1 r , • • Thank you to involved & in -kind contributors: Tribute Committee Co -Chairs Tom Mullon and Margo Danner Eagan American Legion Eagan Lioness Governor Tim Pawlenty State Senator Jim Carlson State Representatives Sandy Masin & Mike Obermueller Eagan City Council, Parks Commission & City Staff Eagan Foundation Eagan Convention & Visitors Bureau Concept Design by Landscaper John Hulburt Bronze Statues by Brodin Studios of Litchfield, MN Printing by Lyn Mar of Eagan, MN This project was funded in part through a $100,000 grant from the State of Minnesota General Obligation Bond Proceeds. Full list of donors on website at www.eaganlionessmn.lionwap.org City of Earl TRIBUTE & MEMORIAL DEDICATION To honor, recognize and thank our hometown heroes Armed Forces, Law Enforcement & Volunteer Fire Department October 14, 2010 4:30 pm Tribute & Memorial Dedication Thursday, October 14, 2010 Central Park, Eagan, MN Program Welcome: Tom Mullon, Eagan American Legion Presentation of Colors: Fire & Police Color Guard Pledge of Allegiance: Richard Carroll Invocation: Police Chaplain Deborah Brown Mayor Mike Maguire Tribute Progress: Tom Mullon Recognitions: Margo Danner Flag Raising: Mike Wold, Bud Johnson, Wayne Olsen "To the Colors" & "Taps": Bugler Joe Collova Unveiling of Statues: Chief McDonald & Chief Scott Closing: Retrieve Colors Thank you for being part of this special ceremony. Immediately following this event there will be the 150th Taste of Eagan event in the Eagan Community Center. List of Chiefs POLICE Martin DesLauiers 1965-1983 Jay Berthe 1983-1989 Patrick Geagan 1989-1999 Kent Therkelsen 1999-2006 James McDonald 2006-present FIRE Don Van Engen 1963-1967 Ted Ringberg 1967-1967 Bill Schultz 1967-1977 Bob Childers 1977-1986 Dick Schindeldecker 1986-1986 Ken Southorn 1986-1992 Dale Nelson 1992-1995 Craig Jensen 1995-2003 Bob Kriha 2003-2006 Mike Scott 2006-present FEB. 19, 2000 VOLUME 21, NO. 52 Council approves $7.5 million for central park by Dan Gearinu Staff Writer The city of Eagan will pur- chase 60 acres of land for the creation of a central park. The land, located near Quarry Park, will cost $7.5 million. The Eagan City Council voted unanimously Feb. 15 to purchase the land. Prior to the vote, City Manager Tom Hedges made a presentation in which he sum- marized the need for a central park and the process which led to the selection of the site. Hedges said that a central park would increase Eagan resi- dents' feeling of community and would allow a central place for community festivals. The cen- tral location of the land, near the main streets of Yankee Doodle Road and Pilot Knob Road, adds to the feeling of communi- ty, Hedges said. The property is being sold by Duke Weeks Realty. The $7.5 million price was the result of months of negotiations between Duke Weeks and city staff. The funds for the purchase will be obtained from various city funds, bonding and $1 mil- lion will come from a special fund set up to pay for park land acquisition. The Community Investment Fund, a fund which is intended to be used on pro- jects which benefit the entire city, will provide $1.5 million and $3 million will coine from the city's general fund balance, essentially the budget surplus which has accumulated over the past five years. The remaining $2 million will coine from bonding. The See Park, 1OA Park/Continued taxpayers of Eagan will pay $228.000 toward the bonds each year -for 20 years. A $100,000 home will pay $4 in new taxes as a results of the bonds. The bonds may be .repaid sooner, though. Hedges said that the city is purchasing more land than it may end up needing, meaning that the extra land could be sold to defray the cost of the bonds. The extra land was purchased to give park planners more options for developing the area. The council all seemed enthusiastic about the land acquisition. Council Member Peggy Carlson- said, "This is the best place for a central park." Carlson said she believes the place is ideal because. of its location near Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob as well as its proximity to the borders of school districts- 191, 196 and 197. - About the perceived high 'price, Carlson said, "We say it's a high price, I think it's the going rate. - Council Member Bea -Blomquist said that she support- ed the park despite its high cost because of the community's need for a central gathering place. Blomquist emphasized a point that Hedges had made in his presentation, that there are very few undeveloped spaces in Eagan that would be suitable for a park, meaning that the oppor- tunity to purchase such land in such a desirable area may never come again. Council Member Masin was concerned about cost, but felt that the need for the park space outweighed the monetary .set- back. "This is a large purchase, but it's also an imporlan t purchase," she said. "At this poriat we are left with few options" On Thursday, in her State ,,f the City address, Mayor Pat Awada spoke of the need for the park and her plans for the park. "Eagan needs the space to hold a fireworks display worthy of our citizenry," she said. "Now we can do better and we will. Beginning with the summer of 2001, we plan to move the fes- tivities to this site. We will cre- ate a central gathering place that can serve a range of needs and all citizens — the young, teenagers, working adults and senior citizens" A task force is currently working on ideas for the space. Among the ideas are a band - shell, a gymnasium and other activity areas. From Farming to Industry to Eagan's New Central Park an Community Center Coming out party for the_ Eagan Community Center Stopping for a second from gazing up at the stars, I looked over and admired the moon to my right, looking bigger than ever before and seemingly beg- ging me to touch it. So I did. I walked over the spongy sur- face under my feet, past the large plastic rocket with a stair- way inside and ran my hand over the cold brick wall while children, including my own two daughters, ran around the room laughing. This clearly was not your av- erage visit to the playground. This was the new indoor play- ground with a space theme, known as The Blast, inside the newly opened Eagan Communi- ty Center. Eagan residents and every- body else will have a great op- portunity to get a look , at The Blast and everything else the center has to offer during tours of the center during the Fourth of July Funfest this week. Although some parts of the center, including the play- ground and the Lone Oak Room Senior Center, have been open since May, the Funfest will real- ly be the center's coming out ceremony. And a wonderful facility it is. It may have been a bit hot when I took my children to the play- ground, but parents will be es- pecially grateful for the play- ground when most other slides and monkey bars are covered with snow or pelted by rain. JOSHUA NICHOLS It's fun for all ages. I know this for a fact be- cause as my youngest daugh- ter, who turns 3 before the end of the summer, got herself stuck at the top of the two-story struc- ture with her new friend and I had to come to her rescue. So as I climbed up the alter- nating steps through the netting and around the rocket booster steps (I somehow managed to avoid the urge to go down one of the playground's three slides), I couldn't help but have fun. Eagan community editor It's also fun just watching children when they first see The Blast. Their eyes open wide and their faces light up as they run eagerly across the room and then pause as they try to figure out which part they want to play on first. I wouldn't be surprised if many Eagan residents and visi- tors have the same reaction as they walk into the Community Center for the first time. You walk in the upper level overlooking the gyms on one side and The Blast on the other and straight ahead is a gorgeous view out the back glass wall of the center. Things are picking up be- yond that glass wall, too. Most of the landscape work is finished and the Eagan Lioness' en- graved paver brick walkway was installed last week. Families will soon be enjoy- ing performances at the Eagan Rotary Band Shell or walking around the pond during the summer. They will skate on that same pond come winter. The Fourth of July Funfest offers a great opportunity for people of all ages to get ac- quainted with the Community Center if they haven't already done so. It certainly offers some- thing of interest for everybody from the kindergarteners run- ning through The Blast to the se- nior citizens kicking up their heels during a dance in the ban- quet center. If you go, just be prepared to maybe find yourself climbing through a playground designed for much smaller people and also be prepared to have some fun. www.thisweek-online.con. Eagan Community Center grand opening is scheduled Sept. 27 Residents played a key role in finished product by Erin Johnson THISM. FI k \I \\'SI'APERS Eagan residents will finally get to see the Community Center they helped create when it officially opens its doors Saturday. Sept. 27. More than 40 community organizations, from schools and churches to businesses and civic groups, have regis- tered to he a part of the grand opening celebration. "We have all kinds of groups coming, from Garden Club members to scouts and square dancers, not to mention athletic associations and Chamber of Commerce mem- bers," said Eagan City Photo In Rick Orndor/ The Eagan Community Center is ready for visitors. Administrator Tom Hedges. Residents have played a vital role in the realization of the Community Center. Three years ago, Eagan residents voted to approve a $15 million tax levy to fund the Community Center and Central Park. And as the proj- ect moved forward, city plan- ners looked to residents for input. "Our whole community effort aimed to seek citizen's input and feedback." said Ken Vraa, director of Parks and Recreation. "We wanted to understand what they were sensing from other community members and to give them information they could pass See Community, 9A of-z-. Community/from lA on to other residents, as well" The city formed a commu- nity task force with volunteers representing the interests of several different groups. For instance, seniors had direct input on what they wanted for the Lone Oak Room, and teens had a say in what they wanted for the teen center. The Community Center was designed to have some- thing for everyone, including a children's indoor play area called The Blast; a fitness center; a gymnasium with three high school regulation basketball courts; a senior center; a teen center; meeting and banquet rooms; and a two-mile walking trail and bandshell in Central Park. Clyde Thurston, a longtime Eagan resident who led the Community Center task force, said the new building will be a hub for the community. "Eagan doesn't have a downtown. We're not an old city," he said. "This will be our community's center, the gathering place for all ages, from preschoolers to teens to seniors. It's something that our community will value for years and years to come." At 70,000 square feet, the Community Center building is the size of about 35 average houses, and the 60-acre Central Park could fit 45 reg- ulation football fields. The building itself cost about $11.5 million. The remainder of the $15 million levy was used for road con- struction, park design, plant materials, the bandshell and the pavilion. Central Park was land- scaped with 326 trees, 2,600 shrubs and 2,800 ornamental grasses and flowers. The star of Central Park, however, remains the Grandfather Tree, a 140-year- old bur oak tree that stood directly in the path of con- struction and was going to be cut down. Due to the efforts of the Eagan Foundation, the tree was moved 450 feet, at a cost of about $50,000, and now stands at the entryway of the Community Center. The city estimates that the tree dates back to 1863, the same year that Henry Ford, William Randolph Hearst and Booker T. Washington were born. "To move this tree, we had to consider its health, history and whether it was structural- ly in good condition," said Greg Hove, Eagan's Forestry Division supervisor. "If one of those things hadn't been right, we couldn't have done it. This Grandfather Tree was meant to be." The Community Center's grand opening event will begin at noon, rain or shine, and feature free food for the first 2,500 people. Main dedication cere- monies will begin at 1 p.m. and include a grand proces- sion of groups and individuals through Central Park to the community Center. At 2 p.m., up to 2,000 Eagan residents will gather in the parking lot for a historical aerial photograph as they form the letter "E." The all -Eagan sing will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. with church and school choirs and any members of the public who wish to participate. Programs, activities and tours inside the Community Center are scheduled from 3 to 4 p.m., with games, compe- titions and prizes in the three gyms. Tom Garrison, Eagan's director of communications, said there will also be some surprises in store. "I think people will be glad they came," he said. "This event will warm their hearts and remind them why we all live in Eagan" The Eagan Community Center is located at 1501 Central Parkway, approxi- mately 1/2 mile north of Yankee Doodle on Pilot Knob Road. Parking for the event will be available at the Community Center, Argosy University and Lockheed Martin. A shuttle bus will also run every ten minutes from the Eagan Transit Station at the corner of Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle roads. For more information on the grand opening event, call (651) 675-5500 or visit www.cityofeagan.com. Erin Johnson is at eagan.thisweek@ecm- inc.com. EG THISWEEK September 6, 2003 3A Eagan seeks community groups for grand opening event The grand opening for the new Eagan Community Center and Central Park has been set for Saturday, Sept. 27 from noon until 4 p.m. As part of the celebration for the new 60-acre park and 70,000 square foot Community Center. the city is inviting all community groups to partici- pate in the festivities. "We want you,". said Eagan City Administrator Tom Hedges. "Whether you are a member of the Girl Scouts or the gardening club, the athletic association or your local church or school, we want every organ- ization to come out for the grand opening and demonstrate the many parts that make up this great community." There will be a grand pro- cession to dramatically and visually demonstrate the four corners of Eagan corning together. For every organization that commits to coming with at least ten people, they will be given a sign and a specific role to play in the procession, which kicks -off the ribbon cutting cer- emonies. Members of groups are encouraged to wear apparel of their specific organization. "It might he Cub Scout uni- forms or EAA or EVAA jerseys or the local running club's t- shirts. Whatever it is, the City Council has said they want this to be a community -wide cele- bration, so we want every local organization to come out for this event and show their col- ors," said Eagan's Communications Director Tom Garrison. Specific times for all the events have yet to be released, but the celebration includes a giant "Human E" aerial photo- graph for historical purposes, an All -Eagan Sing, tours, gym competitions and food. Groups interested in partici- pating in the Grand Procession can call (651) 675-5500 to reg- ister and to send one representa- tive to an organizational meet- ing on Monday, Sept.8 at 7 p.m. at the Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway. Central Parkway is approxi- mately one block north of Yankee Doodle on Pilot Knob Road. The final deadline for registering is Sept.16. Community Center offers Eagan seniors a room of their own The Lone Oak Room will be a hub of activities geared toward seniors by Erin Johnson Trulswu K NtVVS'\iTkti The city of Eagan has spent the last several years trying to provide a welcoming place for seniors to meet, and now with the opening of the new Community Center, seniors finally have a room of their own. The new senior center will he based in the Lone Oak Room of the Community Center and will act as a homebase for sen- ior gatherings. "The Lone Oak Room is part of the Community Center, just as seniors are part of the com- munity," said Cathy Bolduc, program and events supervisor for the Parks and Recreation Department. "By no means do we want to be isolated in that space. They're an important part of the community." In past years, activities for seniors have been sporadic at best, with no central meeting place. Programs at Oak Woods of Eagan, O'Leary Manor and the McDonald's of Eagan Club have been around for several years, but did not offer pro- grams on a weekly basis. In 2001, the city designated Wednesday mornings as a time for seniors to gather in the Community Room at City Hall. Participants would get together for card games, crafts and cof- fee from 9 a.m. to noon. In addition, the city offered some trips and planned activities for seniors. But it has been an important goal for the city to have a place specifically for seniors. espe- cially with the steady increase in Eagan's senior population. Bolduc said. "Eagan is aware that the sen- ior -population is growing in general. not only here but nationwide. We have seen a See Seniors, 5A Tir,tsWilt- ORIN,/3,2.o0� Seniors/from 1A rise in the last few years," she said. "They've been wanting to have a regular place to meet since before the referendum [for the Community Center]." Margo Danner, an Eagan resident who has been actively involved with senior issues, agreed. "When they were planning the Community Center, the seniors said, `Now's the time,— she said. "We should- n't have to be going to Lakeville and Burnsville." With the opening of the Lone Oak Room, seniors will have a regular meeting place with activities geared specifi- cally toward them. The senior center will allow the city to expand and increase its offerings to sen- iors, said Jeff Asfahl, superin- tendent of the Parks and Recreation Department. "The opportunities avail- able for seniors have been increasing over the last few years, but now with the avail- ability of this, things are real- ly going to flourish," he said. The Wednesday morning group, now they'll be called the Lone Oak Rockers, will continue, but several new clubs are also forming. Regular activities will now be offered, such as cards and games, crafts, history and scrapbooking and quilting. A celebration and sympathy group will send out cards for people who are celebrating a birthday or have suffered a loss, and organizers are look- ing to add some exercise pro - Submitted phmo Rental Coordinator Melissa Wind, left, Building Maintenance Engineer Mike Sipper, middle, and Community Center Manager Sandy Breuer take stock of the new Lone Oak Room. grams. Bolduc said that seniors are sometimes hard to plan for because they cover a wide range of ages. "When you talk about sen- iors, you're basically talking about three generations of people," she said. "So trying to program for all of them is a challenge, but a very fun chal- lenge." That's why input from sen- iors in the community is so important, she said. "I rely very heavily on feedback from seniors when programming," she said. "There's no way for me to say, `Here's what you want to do.' I need to hear from them, and I think that's key." Bolduc has also been get- ting help from the Senior Program Development Team, a team of eight seniors who have been working to prepare and schedule for the Lone Oak Room. "They've been involved in deciding things from fabrics for the furnishings to when the card group will meet. They've been really putting a lot of work into the development of the program for the Lone Oak Room," Bolduc said. The Lone Oak Room is located on the first floor of the Community Center and has a kitchenette, bathroom and fireplace. "It has a phenomenal view," Bolduc said. "It over- looks the patio, and beyond that is the pond. It's got a cozy, homey feeling." Initially, the room will only be open when activities are planned, but eventually it might be open on a daily basis for seniors to just come and hang out, Bolduc said. Danner said after two years of waiting for the Community Center to be built, it's exciting that seniors finally have a common meeting place. "When you retire, you aren't at work where you talk to other people every day. It can get kind of lonely if you don't get out and mingle with other people," she said. "That's what the senior center is all about — being able to talk to people your own age who are going through the same things." EG THISWEEK May 3, 2003 5A A "Get Acquainted Day" will be held for seniors in the Lone Oak Room at the Community Center May 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will be able to see the new facility and learn about new opportunities. A giving tree will be filled with gift and supply ideas for the room, such as craft supplies, games, books, and cards, for the Lone Oak Room Shower on May 28 at 9:30 a.m. For more information about the senior center or senior pro- grams, call the Eagan Parks and Recreation Department at (651) 675-5500. Erin Johnson is at eagan.thisweek@ecm- inc.com. www.mnSun.com Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•CurrentiThursday, Oct. 2, 2003 15A Photos by Andy Blenkush/Sun Newspapers A grand grand opening Hundreds of people turned out to celebrate the grand opening of Eagan's new community center on a chilly Saturday afternoon Sept. 27. Above, those turning out listen to local dignitaries. At left, Jordan Drenttel. dressed for the cool temperatures, participated in the grand march of community organizations. Andy Blenkush/Sun Newspapers A grand opening march Hundreds of residents turned out Sept. 27 for the grand opening of Eagan's new community center. For more from the event, which feat- ued a grand march of community organizations, see Page 15A. SA-141Aiktufleryliims -seph7131-zoo3 A letter of appreciation Right: Heather Beeler, left, and friend, Kyrsten Quinnell, both 10, hold Heather's dog, A.J., while standing to help form a human "E" Saturday in the parking lot of the new Eagan Community Center. PHOTOS BY JIM GEHRZ, PIONEER PRESS Hundreds of people joined in to create the outline -style "E" as a part of grand opening festivities at the center. Story, Page 3C of 2. Center's start makes mark Community groups celebrate opening of a new meeting place. BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED Pioneer Press It took nearly 30 minutes of following blue chalk marks in a parking lot and cajoling on a bullhorn to assemble the crowd Saturday, but they made it — a giant "E" in Eagan. The human letter -building was part of a celebration of the official opening of the $23.5 mil- lion Eagan Community Center and 60-acre Central Park. It was an old-fashioned commu- nity get-together, reminiscent of mom's apple pie and the days of "Leave It to Beaver," complete with an Uncle Sam knockoff, an "All -Eagan sing" and free hot dogs and pop. "There's a small-town feel," said city administrator Tom Hedges, despite the fact that Eagan is Minnesota's eighth - largest city. About 1,500 people came to the gala on the windy, chilly day. City Council Member Peggy Carlson grew up in Eagan, but she said community events like the one held on Saturday weren't commonplace even decades ago. "There weren't many peo- ple out here or community meeting places," she said. "We're off to a great start here, but we need patience and vol- unteerism to keep the commu- nity center going." Getting the giant "E" prop- erly set up was like trying to take a family photo, on a huge scale. "Do you think it's going to be cool to be part of history?" Doreen Gloede, of Eagan, asked her daughter as they waited for the "E" to be assem- bled. "Yeah," said fifth -grader Meghan. Aerial photographs of the human letter were taken to preserve what the city called an historic event. About 50 community groups participated in the opening of the band shell, pavilion, gazebo and the city's "Grandfather Tree," which is 140 to 160 years old and was in danger of being cut down to make way for a new road before it was moved to its current spot. Fireworks accompanied each opening. The project, which included funding from a 2000 referen- dum, came after years of talk in Eagan about building a com- munity center. The center includes a kid's play area, sen- ior and teen centers, gyms, a fitness center and banquet rooms. "It's great. I didn't realize until I came here what they built — how impressive it is," said Maynard Ohm, who lived in Eagan for 42 years before recently moving to Rosemount. "Uncle" Tom Egan, a former Eagan mayor and current Metropolitan Council member, played Uncle E, complete with green and tan striped pants and a top hat adorned with the letter "E." "I've been around the block here in Eagan for so long, and we've attempted to create a sense of community, but this is the defining moment of bring- ing the city together," Egan said. Mara H. Gottfried can be reached at mgottfried@pioneer press.com or 651-228-5262. 414845tZ A gazebo on the shore of the man-made pond in Eagan's new Central Park frames the Eagan Community Center. The 60-acre park in- cludes a band shell, picnic area, gardens and walking paths. Metro cities put community front and center Eagan joins a growing list of suburbs building new gathering places. Photographs by Darlene Prois/Star Tribune Sandy Brownlee walks from her Eagan home to the city's new community center for workouts. She says her favorite spot is on the stationary cycle, where she can see the wetlands and wooded hills. "This is for future generations," she said of the center. Even with tight budgets, Eagan and other cities value a place where residents can feel a sense of belonging. By Darlene Prois Star Tribune Staff Writer Even though she's lived in Eagan for 27 years, Sandy Brownlee needed directions to find her city's new community center. It was worth the trou- ble. "This is fabulous," Brownlee said one recent morning. For the past few months, she has walked from her home to the renter fnr wnrknnte in the. rar_ get," said Brownlee, who used to belong to a private health club. "I like that you're putting money back into the commu- nity, too." Community is important to Brownlee. At 58, she already enjoys the fitness center. She looks forward to joining the senior center in a few years. And she loves having a place to watch July 4th fireworks with her children and grandchil- dran From Lakeville to Andover, Woodbury to Plymouth, com- munities are endorsing the concept of a central gathering places. How they create that place and what they're willing to pay for the amenity can be as individual as the community itself. It's demographics more than wealth that affects the de- cision. I °fit Eagan Community Center and Central Park More than 30 community organ- izations will take part in grand opening ceremonies. What: Dedication and free food for the first 2,500 guests. When: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, rain or shine, with dedication at 1 p.m. Where: In the city's new Central Park, on Central Parkway near the intersection of Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob Rds. More info: Call 651-675-5500 or visit the city's Web site, http://www.cityofeagan.com. Eagan resi- dents Chuck Fisher, 74, and Charleen Louis, 75, en- joyed a game of cards in the center's Lone Oak senior room. It in- cludes a fire- place, kitch- en, book- shelves and table group- ings. Darlene Prois- /Star Tribune EAGAN $15.3 million, 70,000-square-foot facility. )- Indoor track, performance studio, weightlifting room, indoor play facility, gyms, teen and senior centers, meet- ing rooms, banquet center. Y $7.8 million, 60-acre park includes band shell, walking paths, picnic areas, gazebo, gardens, pond and fountain. Eagan Community Center grand opening set for Sept. 27 In what is being billed as "the biggest event of the fall" in Eagan, city officials have released the schedule for the Sept. 27 grand opening for the new Eagan Community Center and Central Park. The event is from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and includes several unique events: • The grand procession • A "Human E" aerial pho- tograph • The All -Eagan Sing • Tours of the fitness, teen, and senior centers, free play in "The Blast" children's play area, and competitions for prizes in the gyms. "The goal of the dedication ceremonies is to dramatically and visually demonstrate the many aspects, the groups and organizations that make up this great community," said City Administrator Tom Hedges. That's why last week the city began encouraging as many civic groups, businesses, churches and schools to partici- pate. Groups of 10 or more that Event SCIiedNle 12 noon-1 p.m. Explore Central Park and enjoy free food for first 2,500 people 1-2 p.m. Dedication ceremonies and grand procession 2 p.m. "Human E" photograph 2:30 p.m. All -Eagan Sing 3 p.m. Programs, activities, tours and competitions for prizes inside Community Center agree to participate no later than Sept. 16 will be equipped with a sign and a specific venue within the 60 acre Central Park to meet. The schedule begins at noon with tours of the Community Center and free food and bever- ages for the first 2,500 people, donated by Classic Catering, Coca-Cola and other vendors. At 1 p.m., the dedication See Center, 8A Center/from IA ceremonies and grand proces- sion begin. Following brief ribbon cut- ting ceremonies at the Pavilion, the Grandfather Tree, the Gazebo, and the Eagan Rotary Band Shell, participants — dressed in their organization's apparel and walking behind signs with their group names — will join the grand procession of organizations in a walk to the Community Center amid day- time fireworks and pageantry. The procession is meant to symbolize the four corners of Eagan coming together. At 2 p.m., up to 2,000 Eagan residents will be assembled for the "Human E" historical aerial photograph commemorating the occasion. People will be grouped to spell out a giant "E" in front of the community cen- ter for a photograph to be taken from the fire department ladder truck. Reprints may be sold. At 2:30 p.m., the All -Eagan Sing begins, involving the Eagan men's and women's cho- ruses. Church choirs, school choirs of all ages, and members of the public -who just like to sing are invited to participate. They will lead citizens in an inspirational community sing - along of common pieces of music, followed by one number that is the musical gift of this mass choir to the community. Beginning at 3 p.m., the event concludes the final hour with competitions for prizes in the three regulation -size gyms, tours of the facility, bingo in the Lone Oak Senior Room and other activities. "The whole afternoon is meant to be a fun and family - friendly event for people of all ages," said event organizer Tom Garrison. Groups wishing to partici- pate should call the Eagan Parks & Recreation at (651) 675-5500. In addition to the activities listed here, Garrison said to "look for a few surpris- es. People will be glad they came and participated in this once -in -a -lifetime event." The celebration for the new 60-acre and 70,000 square foot Community Center will be held at 1501 Central Parkway, approximately 1/2 mile north of Yankee Doodle on Pilot Knob Road. Meet and greet I'pnm b. Rai Orndnr( Eagan seniors got acquainted with the new senior center in the Lone Oak Room at the Community Center May 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors were able to see the new facility and learn about new opportunities. 11116)wt t'ket.i 7�ct• 'BER 20, 2003 24, NO. 29 All Home Tement Section d in this issue. r honored cal painter Rollie s chosen for the DNR handbook. 'A it Thiswepla www.thiswc E anCommunity Center gr Opefling is SChtt1de Sept. 2 Residents played a key role in finished product by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan residents will finally get to see the Community Center they helped create when it officially opens its doors Saturday, Sept. 27. More than 40 community organizations, from schools and churches to businesses and civic groups, have regis- tered to be a part of the grand opening celebration. "We have all kinds of groups coming, from Garden Club members to scouts and square dancers, not to mention athletic associations and Chamber of Commerce mem- bers," said Eagan City The Eagan Community Center is ready for visitors. Phoro by Rick o>ndo f Administrator Tom Hedges. Residents have played a Painted ladies Two Painted Lady butterflies enu» the hl.,.» Pynrn by RIr4 n.»a„r vital role in the rer the Community Ce years ago, Eagan voted to approve a 3 tax levy to Community Cen Central Park. And ect moved forward, ners looked to res input. "Our whole c( effort aimed to seek input and feedback," Vraa, director of F Recreation. "We understand what tl sensing from other cc members and to g_ information they cc See Community, 9 Eagan pli contes winners announc by Erin Johnsc THISWEEK NEWSPAPER Four residents ha' their photos chosen to rc Eagan through the Eagan" contest, the cit' amateur photo contest. The purpose of the was to increase the num? variety of city photos for the Web site and city p tions as well as other a the community, said City Administrator Hedges. Categories for the included the best historic the best scenic view ar Der 20, 2003 THISWEEK c 40, I rr J LAST CHANCE MN= LIDUT3 CLEARANCE EVENT 2©20W2 40=011 LAHIR4t ©HOZ' DUROHa V3-10t 2W1H42 s EP-TI Q Q 017tan",.„ kaaft, ur ngo au ga er ac age. arc use ny • • urango ecei Unique Tailgating Canopy dP Coleman Road Trip Sport Grill 40 Special Official Size DodgQ Branded football )03 CARAVAN RANDSPORT /6, AUTO, REAR HEAT & AIR, QUAD SEATS, QUAD SEATS, CAST WHEELS, CD PLAYER, PWR. LIFTGATE, POWER DOOR, CAST WHEELS, (WINDOWS, LOCKS, MIRRORS), SUNSCREEN, TILT, CD PLAYER & CASS., POWER DRIVER'S SEAT. CRUISE keggrr,77)§--otatilstla $3791s0 Cash ist. Lic. Only 48 mo. available 60 mos. 0 ill $31,730 Discount • $1,200 ite - $4,000 :ount - $2,231 1.1-1L1301ilu 1 000 23,299 )wner - $300 t003 DURANGO SLT* PLUS 4%4 041WiU,Ssg PKG./HEATED SEATS, V8, AUTO, AIR, POWER SEATS, CD POWER (WINDOWS, LOCKS, MIRRORS), FLARE WHEELS 29 CASH ONLY Plus 1st* Vt. -is& its* qi 00/0 available 60 mos. Retail $36,825 Pkg. Disc - $210 Rebate - $4,500 Discount 2003 CARAVAN SXT 2003 RAM QUAD 4x4 5.7 HEMI - SLT (1 $295 /so CASH ist+ Lic. Only 48 mo. $6,811 available 60 mos. Retail $25,510 Pkg. 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Retail 16,035 -$1115 • $3,000 • 921 sin aCIC) Pkg Discount Rebate i 3601) Rebate WOW! -• SAVE 6,216 Retail Pkg. Disc Rebate Discount 791$29 Pluslst • tic 48 rno ANL CASH ONLY 0 0/0 available 60 mos. $29,215 - $450 - $3,000 2 766 200a /)ODI SPRINTE1 COMMERCIAL I OR PAS SENGE 3 WHEEL BASES, 2 ROOF 1 UNMATCHED INTERIOR VOLUh POWER TRAIN, 22 lv At. 1)*.s1VAt unity/from 1A ther residents, as well." city formed a commu- ;k force with volunteers nting the interests of different groups. For e, seniors had direct n what they wanted for one Oak Room, and ad a say in what they for the teen center. Community Center signed to have some - Dr everyone, including ren's indoor play area The Blast; a fitness a gymnasium with igh school regulation )all courts; a senior a teen center; meeting nquet rooms; and a le walking trail and ll in Central Park. Thurston, a longtime resident who led the nity Center task force, new building will be a the community. an doesn't have a vn. We're not an old said. "This will be nmunity's center, the ig place for all ages, eschoolers to teens to It's something that imunity will value for id years to come." 0,000 square feet, the nity Center building is of about 35 average and the 60-acre Park could fit 45 reg- football fields. building itself cost $11.5 million. The er of the $15 million levy was used for road con- struction, park design, plant materials, the bandshell and the pavilion. Central Park was land- scaped with 326 trees, 2,600 shrubs and 2,800 ornamental grasses and flowers. The star of Central Park, however, remains the Grandfather Tree, a 140-year- old bur oak tree that stood directly in the path of con- struction and was going to be cut down. Due to the efforts of the Eagan Foundation, the tree was moved 450 feet, at a cost of about $50,000, and now stands at the entryway of the Community Center. The city estimates that the tree dates back to 1863, the same year that Henry Ford, William Randolph Hearst and Booker T. Washington were born. "To move this tree, we had to consider its health, history and whether it was structural- ly in good condition," said Greg Hove, Eagan's Forestry Division supervisor. "If one of those things hadn't been right, we couldn't have done it. This Grandfather Tree was meant to be." The Community Center's grand opening event will begin at noon, rain or shine, and feature free food for the first 2,500 people. Main dedication cere- monies will begin at 1 p.m. and include a grand proces- sion of groups and individuals through Central Park to the community Center. At 2 p.m., up to 2,000 Eagan ALL CREDIT GI ISM/VIERS WFI.. t ItA,PoSe i RA fps of the Apple Auto Group SATURN LS2 V6, AUTO, AM -FM, CD SUNROOF #70402 $7,495 LOADED, LEATHER HAS5ti residents will gather in the parking lot for a historical aerial photograph as they form the letter "E." The all -Eagan sing will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. with church and school choirs and any members of the public who wish to participate. Programs, activities and tours inside the Community Center are scheduled from 3 to 4 p.m., with games, compe- titions and prizes in the three gyms. Tom Garrison, Eagan's director of communications, said there will also be some surprises in store. "I think people will be glad they came," he said. "This event will warm their hearts and remind them why we all live in Eagan." The Eagan Community Center is located at 1501 Central Parkway, approxi- mately 1/2 mile north of Yankee Doodle on Pilot Knob Road. Parking for the event will be available at the Community Center, Argosy University and Lockheed Martin. A shuttle bus will also run every ten minutes from the Eagan Transit Station at the corner of Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle roads. For more information on the grand opening event, call (651) 675-5500 or visit www.cityofeagan.com. Erin Johnson is at eagan.thisweek@ecm- inc.com. y if 1 '98 NISSAN SENTRA ► 41 lb 4-DOOR, AUTOMATIC, AC, VERY CLEAN #37613A $5,995 EG SHJGWEEK ;September YEAR END SA MOD: 6.5HP, ' .„, PERSON $359.00 TORO. Count on it. www.toro.com r I SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS L Good through Sept. 30, 2003 $10.00 OFF 651-454-7258 1320 Duckwood Dr.. Et in Across from Mee Z • AM -FM, WOOD GRAIN DASH, PW, PL, AC #7067ZA '94 NISSAN ALTIMA GXE $2,695 AM -FM, AC, 5-SI #3614 '94 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE GS $3 na7nom AM -FM, AC, ALLOY WHEELS #7117Z AM -FM, AC, AUTO, ABS it7non7 AM -FM, AC, SUNR tar a0. 9003 THISWEEK EG Senh'rs fall at the Eastman ;r in the northwest y, September 30. will leave for the r at 12:10 p.m. for a ving the fall foliage, crushing apples for oject. The cost is $9 and includes trans- ' all admission fees. Drmation or to regis- ,agan Parks and (651) 675-5500. volunteer unities sville-Eagan-Savage School District will celebrate Minnesota's Intergenerational Activities Week Sept. 29 to Oct. 3 by inviting local senior citizens to tour -schools and explore volun- teer opportunities. Seniors can learn about the Reading Buddies and Bucket Brigade programs (for volunteers in the elementary -level class- room) or learn how to be a study partner for a secondary -level stu- dent. Interested seniors should con- tact District 191 Volunteer Coordinator Margo Swanson at margos_volunteers @ twinciti- zen.net, or call her at (612) 308- 9038, to schedule their tour. Intergenerational Activities Week 'ontiac Bonneville SE Sedan . • 30W VS • Lt Bronze Mist • 45/55 custom cloth • spoiler • Alum. wheels • 'Car of the Year' Sale Price An $20,99 levy Monte Carlo SS earner buckets • pea amen sear Victory arr. moon roof • OnSter Red :D'Case. • 3800 V-6 Sale Pri 17,710 HD 3/4 Ext. Cab HO Auto • Locdn9 Dlfl. HD ;tiering • r sea+ Sale Price 835,021 $ 6.0v-e MSRP Trail Blazers LS&Ext. BLUE $24,999* BLACK $24,799* HWTER $24,799* svvrER $27,299* ,• Silverado Z-71 yellow, $4000 in extras - t $25,999 Silverado 2-71 aauty, glass tonneau cover, dual at, tan lthr. buckets$24,999 Reg. Cab 4x2 , NC, 4.3 V-6, local 1-owner, fact. raphite cloth $14,999 Silverado LS Roe! Awesome! 2003 Suburbans LOADED! LT, Leather • lift gate • trailer pkg. • indigo blue or Lt. pewter $35,999 00 Dodge Dakota Sport club cab, only 33,XXX mi., 4.7 V-8, loaded, 1-owner, really sharp $16,979 00 Ford F-150 Ext. Cab 4x4 5.4 V-8, off road pkg., electronic 4x4, tow pkg., nerf bars, blue $16,989 00 Chevy Silverado 4x4 pewter, auto trac, 5.3 V-8, CD, chrome rail covers, rockers & wheel opening mldg $17,999 99 Chevy Silverado LT 4x4 is sponsored by Volunteers of America and the Minnesota Association for Volunteer Directors. Dining monthly club cards Dining monthly club cards are for sale at the Lakeville Senior Center. The DMC sets consist of 222 restaurant cards (this is 66 more cards than in past years). These cards can be used monthly for discounts when dining out in a variety of restaurants south of the river. The sets retail for $23, but will be sold at the Lakeville Senior Center for $17. For more Dodge Closeout! Dodge Closeout! Dodge Closeout! Durango Sport Brand New 2003 MSRP $31,050 • Dk Garnet Red Pearl • Trailer Tow w/all rebates $23,999* Brand New 2003 LOADED • MSRP $34,880 • Bright White Clear Coat • 3rdSea •4.7V8 • Trailer Tow • Anti -lock • Overhead Conversion w/all rebates $26,999* '03 HEMI's l & 3/4 In Stock TTTT information, call (952) 985-4622. Chair massages A licensed, therapeutic chair massage therapist will be at the Lakeville Senior Center Wednesday, Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to noon. She will give 15- minute massages while partici- pants are seated and fully clothed. The sessions focus on the upper body: head, neck, shoulders, back and arms. The cost is $13 for members and $15 for nonmem- bers. Appointments are required. Call Rosemary at (952) 985-4621 by Sept. 22. Appointments must be canceled 24 hours prior or there will be a charge. "Mom and Dad need to find a senior facility, but I'm not sure how much care they need or what type of place will fit their lifestyle." Fireside Christmas Enjoy another CI Show at the Fireside Theater in Fort Atkins( Nov. 20-21. Lunch will 1 at the Old Country Tomah and the group overnight at the Baymor Janesville. The group 1 visit the Chocolate Mus Spinning Top in Burling This trip will include fot The cost is $229 with deposit due by Sept. 30. information, call the 1 Senior Center at (952) S DARTS I► 651-455-156( www.dartsl.org Serving Seniors, Families, Community www.caregiverMN FRS AT APPLE VALLEY Exclusively for Independent Seniors SUM O- ©Z-2O©a millioncommunitycenter in hands of voters City Council referendum for ;pecial election Nichols residents will their say on a pro - million community, mn a referendum comes before them June 6. "I think it's time to get it out there and have the public decide if theywant this before we go any further," said Councilmem- ber Peggy Carlson at the City Council's April 4 meeting. "I wonder if we haven't reached an end spot where all we are doing is spinning our wheels? It's time to ask the people if they want this or if we should move on to other projects." The City Council approved setting a special election for the referendum on a 3-2 vote. If vot- ers approve the referendum, it would allow the city to spend up to $15.35 million for the project. The referendum question does ley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current/Wednesday, April 12, 2000 not list specific components for the community center and sur- rounding park. Councilmembers Sandra Masin and Bea Blomquist cast the opposing votes, saying that although they support an even- tual referendum vote on the pro- ject the June 6 vote did not give the council enough time to edu- cate the public on the project and sort through its alterna- tives. "I think there's a chance to investigate some more possibil- ities, but if we set such a short time window, we are not giving ourselves enough time to take full advantage of that opportu- nity," Blomquist said. The council accepted a report from the task force that has been studying the central park and community center project for the past seven months. Masin, objected to the council setting the referendum before it had time to review the task force's report and discuss it with task force members. "We're talking about a $15 million project and I'm con- cerned we are .not getting a chance to sit down with the task force making the proposal and ask its members questions," Masin said. CENTER: To Page 14A C ty center would be built id at the northwest cor- )b and Yankee Doodle Northwest Airlines, cheed Martin buildings. ;n the $7.5 million sale of March 30. >'s recommendation calls care -foot community cen- - i center, senior center, kitchen, indoor play area, four gyms, and space for ;rical Society, the Eagan ;ion and the Eagan Con- s Bureau. also calls for improve - itself, with four picnic shell, playground equip- leyball courts and bike Is included in the layout. )lan, the entire project 1 million, with $11.07 to the community center rest going toward infra - development, park im- i contingency funds. The mount also includes id issuance fees. ; would pay an additional of their home's market :ars, if the referendum ier of a home with a mar- ),000, for example, would il $36 each year for the . er of a $200,000 home C IorthweS1 Airlines received 776 responses from the roughly 22,500 surveys it sent out, with all but 15 of those being positive responses, Thurston said. "I was hard pressed to find even 15 re- sponses that were even remotely nega- tive in regards to the project," Thurston said. "With so many different needs and opinions in the community, -I was sur- prised to see such a lopsided response." In coming to a list of items the task force deemed desirable for the communi- ty center, task force members went through each proposal one by one, giving For the most part, the residents who filed to the podium to address the council were in favor of the community center, but many of them said the taskforce's plan needed some tweaking. One example was a trio of Eagan teens who called for more space within the cen- ter to be addressed to a teen center and that more be done immediately to pro- vide Eagan teens with a place to go. School for Environmental Studies se- nior Brandon Nguyen, Eastview High School senior Karen Luchka, and Eagan High School senior Katie Tilley told the riPna• loprnt School Principal Torr council that the opinii niors sometimes aren't munity. "It really comes c issue," Wilson said. ' willing to speak out c nior citizens are willir too." Susan Widmar ar both members of Eal zation for. Process En the council to task for a lack of open comn public in the process of force and reviewing pc the community center. Dean said he and h informal door-to-door borhood and of 40 to talked to, only three sr project, with two of misinformed. However, task fo; council members sa steps to public involvement •nnnar frnm anir 4 MNSUN - News Page 1 of 3 uewspapers Select a Town: Select a Town 1 GO Local News Local News Community Education Calendar Opinion Public Safety Seniors Obituaries Legals Local Sports Sports News Sports Briefs Events/Scores Business News Business News Entertainment Horoscope Classifieds Classifieds Weather Weather Past News News Archive Contact Info. Contact Us How to Advertise Jobs At Sun Front Page Home Page Spin To Win! WNW *OW Sun Slots Special Sections NET DIRECTory Who's Who Fire Muster Fall Motoring Local News Local Forecast Click Here EAGAN Eagan hires architect as center design process moves ahead By Joshua Nichols Sun Newspapers (Created 9/6/00 10:02:09 AM) Nearly a year after a community center and central park began to be discussed, the design effort has kicked into high gear. The Eagan City Council emerged from meetings that kicked off Aug. 22 with a consensus on hiring TKDA and Moody/Nolan as the architects for the $15 million community center. That week the council also interviewed applicants for construction manager for the center and planners for the central park that surrounds the building. Rather than wait until its Sept. 5 meeting, when the council was scheduled to make a decision on the park planner, the council hired TKDA and Moody/Nolan Aug. 24 so representatives from the firms could sit in on the construction manager interviews. "It was a real good process and we had lots of real good prospects," said City Administrator Tom Hedges. "Coming out of the interviews we had some tough choices to make, but it all went really well." TKDA is a St. Paul architectural and engineering firm. The company's full name is Toltz-King-Duvall-Anderson & Associates Inc. Moody/Nolan is a Coiumbus, Ohio -based architectural firm that will partner up with TKDA in the design process. "They are working with TKDA because they have done quite a few community centers and they have that experience behind Monday, Sep. 11, 2000 http://mnsun.com/story.asp?city=Eagan&story=48995 9/ 11 /00 MNSUN - News Page 2 of 3 Search The Web Powered by: loaloot Search I them," Hedges said. "This way we get that resource and we also get the resources of the local firm as well." Originally 13 architectural firms showed interest in the project, Hedges said. That group was narrowed down to the five finalists who made presentations at the Aug. 22 meeting. "After the meeting the council really had two favorites," Hedges said. "So we did some additional review and checks and then after the park planner interviews Aug. 24, they officially chose TKDA and Moody/Nolan." Architects were evaluated on a number of criteria, including strength of their team, experience, how their presentation reflected Eagan's vision, their general design philosophy and how their approach would work with the focus groups that will help design the center. While the park planner was to be named during the council's Sept. 5 meeting, some additional review of construction manager prospects has been delayed. The city will likely decide on a construction manager at its Sept. 19 meeting, Hedges said. The city is hiring a construction manager rather than a general contractor because it is more cost efficient, Hedges said. The city also used a construction manager for the Civic Arena and Cascade Bay projects. "A construction manager will decide for instance whether steel is needed and then will go out and get the bids," Hedges said. "They work as an agent and organize the entire construction process for us. It generally saves money that way and that is why we went in this direction." The group of task forces that will be working with the park planner, architect and construction manager has also begun to take shape. Applications for the task forces were due last week and Beth Wielde, Parks and Recreation administration specialist, said the overall response was good. "We've had a lot of responses from citizens who want to take part in the process," Wielde said. "Right now we are working on setting up those task forces based on the responses we received." About 10 focus groups will be formed to meet and discuss design aspects of the center and the park. The make-up of those groups was tentatively scheduled to be approved by the City Council at its Sept. 5 meeting. http://mnsun.com/story.asp?city=Eagan&story=48995 9/ 11 /00 Community Center has new director, should open in spring by Erin Johnson Staff Writer Construction of the Eagan Community Center is for the most part right on schedule, said Sandy Breuer, who was recently appointed director of the new building. "You cannot predict the weather. In October we had cold sooner than we expected and it was rainy, so it put us a little behind in the construction of some outdoor amenities," she said. "But the building con- struction is pretty much on schedule." Breuer was hired for the position of director two months ago and was the first staff mem- ber hired for the new building. She was formerly the assis- tant Parks and Recreation direc- tor for the city of Shoreview, where she managed the commu- nity center as well as Tropics indoor water park, the inside version of Cascade Bay. She currently lives in Apple Valley, where she worked as a recre- ation superintendent, managing the community center and recreation division before being hired by Shoreview. "I'm closer to home now; I don't have the long commute," she said. Breuer said she is very impressed with what she's seen so far of Eagan's Community Center. "This community center is See Center, 6A The main entrance of the Community Center is made of glass and stone. Photo by Rick Orndorf Center/From 1 A exciting and elegant," she said. "The spaces that are fun and fitness related are very color- ful and exciting areas to be in. On the flip side, the banquet rooms will be very elegant." In fact, she said, the city is already taking reservations for the banquet rooms for dates after May 10. Some couples have already booked their wedding receptions for this summer, she said. "Some of these brides and grooms are very brave," she said, laughing. "They have not actually seen the physical space yet. They've seen ren- derings, but not the actual space" The building is tentatively scheduled to open spring of building construction is mostly on schedule at this point, some of the outdoor features, such as the bandshell, the gazebo and a pond outside of the ban- quet room, are running behind due to weather issues. But Breuer said that in a project of this magnitude, the unexpected is expected. "What's most exciting is we can plan and plan and plan and think we have all of our bases covered, yet we know we're not going to," she said. The two-story structure is designed to have an open feel, incorporating glass to provide ample views of surrounding Central Park from every angle. The main entrance of the two -level building is accessi- ble from an upper -level park- ing lot. which will hold 262 fountain. The two-story main entrance area will be con- structed of glass. The upper level will house a playspace for smaller children, and the Chamber of Commerce and the Conventions and Visitors Bureau will be leasing space on that level as well. Breuer said the children's play area, which features soft, indoor playground equipment, will be a great alternative for gatherings of kids ages 2 to 8 years old. "We're really excited about our indoor playground. Parents looking for something new and different for birthday parties should really take a look at it," she said. "There are also meet- ing rooms directly attached, so you can hold parties right The lower level will feature a fireplace and sitting area, with the banquet room on one side and the Lone Oak Room, which will serve as a home base for senior activities, on the other. The building will offer three gymnasiums, a workout room, a running track and an aerobics/performance room. The lower level entrance will lead outside to a terrace overlooking the park, and an additional parking lot will be constructed on the lower level next to the building. Breuer said the city will be hiring part-time staff people for the new building, with positions posted on the city's Web site probably after Jan. 1. She suggests those interested in working for the Community city's Web site. Membership fees and other costs have yet to go before the City Council for final approval, so those also will be posted at a later date, she said. And when the construction trucks have gone home and the Community Center is complet- ed, Breuer said she believes it will be a real asset to the city. "We're really excited to have it in this community and I think the residents will really see a great product as the end result," she said. To make reservations for the Community Center ban- quet room, call Cherryl Mesko at the Eagan Parks and Recreation Department at (651) 681-4660. Erin Johnson is at Center/From 2A "Some of these brides and grooms are very brave," she said, laughing. "They have not actually seen the physical space yet. They've seen render- ings, but not the actual space." The building is tentatively scheduled to open spring of 2003, she said. While the build- ing construction is mostly on schedule at this point, some of the outdoor features, such as the bandshell, the gazebo and a pond outside of the banquet room, are running behind due to weather issues. But Breuer said that in a project of this magnitude, the unexpected is expected. "What's most exciting is we can plan and plan and plan and think we have all of our bases covered, yet we know we're not going to," she said. The two-story structure is designed to have an open feel, incorporating glass to provide ample views of surrounding Central Park from every angle. The main entrance of the two -level building is accessible from an • upper -level parking lot, which will hold 262 cars and feature a decorative foun- tain. The two-story main entrance area will be construct- ed of glass. The upper level will house a playspace for smaller children, and the Chamber of Commerce and the Conventions and Visitors Bureau will be leasing space on that level as well. Breuer said the children's play area, which features soft, indoor playground equipment, will be a great alternative for gatherings of kids ages 2 to 8 years old. "We're really excited about our indoor playground. Parents looking for something new and different for birthday parties should really take a look at it," she said. "There are also meet- ing rooms directly attached, so you can hold parties right there." The lower level will feature a fireplace and sitting area, with the banquet room on one side and the Lone Oak Room, which will serve as a home base for senior activities, on the other. The building will offer three gymnasiums, a workout room, a running track and an aero- bics/performance room. The lower level entran will lead outside to a teak?' overlooking the park, and an 1 additional parking lot will be constructed on the lower leVe1 next to the building. Breuer said the city will be hiring part-time staff people for the new building, with posi- tions posted on the city's Web, site probably after Jan. 1: She suggests those interested in working for the Community Center keep their eye on the city's Web site. Membership fees and other costs have yet to go before the City Council for final approval, so those also will be posted at a later date, she said. And when the construction trucks have gone home and the Community Center is complet- ed, Breuer said she believes it Will be a real asset to the city. "We're really excited to have it in this community and I think the residents will really see a great product as the end result," she said. 3.3 0 03 0 E Erin Johnson is at The main entrance to Eagan's new Community Center is made of glass and stone.Photo by Rick Orndorf I _ # MIN+ ifx Community. Center has . new director shou ld open in spring by Erin Johnson Staff Writer Construction of the Eagan Community Center is for the most part right on schedule, said Sandy Breuer, who was recently appointed director of the new building. "You cannot predict the weather. In October we had cold sooner than we expected and it was rainy, so it put us a little behind in the construction of some outdoor amenities," she said. "But the building construc- tion is pretty much on schedule." Breuer was hired for the posi- tion of director two months ago and was the first staff member hired for the new building. She was formerly the assistant Parks and Recreation director for the city of Shoreview, where she managed the community center as well as Tropics indoor water park, the inside ' version of Cascade Bay. She currently lives in Apple Valley, where she worked as a recreation superin- tendent, managing the communi- ty center and recreation division before being hired by Shoreview. "I'm closer to home now; I don't have • the long commute," she said. Breuer said she is very impressed with what she's seen so far of Eagan's Community Center. "This community center is exciting and elegant," she said. "The spaces that are fun and fit- ness related are very colorful and • exciting areas to be in. On the flip side, the banquet rooms will be very elegant." In fact, she said, the city is already taking reservations for the banquet rooms for dates after May 10. Some couples have already booked their wedding receptions for this summer, she said. See Center, 7A Community Center will open in stages Areas of the new building will open as they're ready, city says by Erin Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS Eagan's new community center will debut with a series of "soft" openings as opposed to a one-time opening when the building is completed, the City Council decided. A grand opening for the entire facility is still planned, but in the meantime each area of the new building will open as it is staffed and ready. The grand opening celebration is planned Sept. 27. A community open house j will also be held July 4 so the i public can inspect the new , building, with staff on hand to explain different aspects of the building. "It's a chance for people to come in and explore," said Director of Communications i Tom Garrison. i The decision to have a series of soft openings was r one of timing and cost, said City Administrator Tom Hedges. "As we looked at when the Community Center would be completed, we wanted to do some soft openings before we put the whole facility into operation," he said. -"From a cost standpoint, it's much more cost-effective as we pre- pare staffing and operations." Soft openings also allow for a dry run of the facility before it's fully operational, and can show how things like traffic flow are working and if anything additional is needed that wasn't previously antici- pated. "When you bring in new people, by staging it and hav- ing soft openings, you're get- ting the kinks out and making See Community, 6A TTi wC9.-L 03 0 z-V°3 6A March 1, 2003 THISWEEK EG Community/from 1A center and gymnasium until the end of summer, Hedges sure it's operating well• We said. "If you look at the calendar want to be operations," in all the year and what is mostcost- The first opens he be effective in terms of a openinga The amConvengtion fitness center, opening th Eagan Convention and Hess center in May is not the fit- Visitorse VB new People are accot the cBureaus (ECVB) best time. at - office April 14, followed by ed to more outdoor activities,' meeting rooms and the Blast, he said. opening of space-themed children's play postponing the op areaocwithotwo 25 ao2t tall 20-foot the fitness center untilchance to rocket towers and will give the city he said. twisting slide, on May 2• build up membership, said. Sept. Thb firse wedding reception will be held in the banquet Fitness classes will begin May 10, and the senior S. will open The gymnasium am - room center will open May 11.and is scheduled for progr The city decided to hold of the fitness on the opening ming Aug. 11, and the teen center will open Sept. 5. On -site construction ct onGarrwi the ad before uApril, said, so the public will not b walking into a constructio zone when they visit the faci ity. "They can't be under co struction in any area that fol are allowed to be in," he sail Information on Community Center is cite s. on the city Webwww.cityofeagan tom. Erin Johnson is at ' eagan.thisweek@ecm- inc.com. vu,s\,um:K 04- 0I -0X00 Task force to present findings about potential Eagan community center The Community Facilities to fund a facility of this nature; Task Force, a group of nearly 40 and, finally, the timing of a bond individuals representing com- referendum if recommended. munity organizations and resi- Following the task force rec- dents at large, have been work- ommendation, anyone wishing ing for several months to deter- to comment about the recom- mine whether a community mendation or about issues relat- activity center should be recom- ed to a community center, the mended for construction on development of the property, or property the city has recently issues related to a bond referen-. purchased in central Eagan. dum to fund property or com- The task force has now com- munity activity center develop- pleted its recommendation and ment is encouraged to speak. will present it to the City Following the public com- Council Tuesday, April 4, at the ment period, the City Council is regular City Council meeting likely to discuss and take action beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the task force recommenda- Following its recommendation, tion and discuss the possibility public comment will be taken And timing of a bond referen- regarding the recommendation dum. and on the issues related to a Regular City Council meet -- community activity center. ings are generally held at 6:30 The task force was directed p.m. on the first and third by the City Council to deter- Tuesday of each month in the mine whether the Eagan com- City Council chambers at the munity needs and would support Municipal Center, 3830 Pilot a community activity center; Knob Road. All meetings are what features, activities and open to the public and the pub - amenities and programs a com- lic is encouraged to participate. munity center should include if Meetings are also televised live recommended; how much a on cable channel 16. community activity center of the If you would like to make. recommended type would likely comments about this issue and cost; whether public/private are unable to take part in the partnerships should be explored April 4 City Council meeting, within the construction and/or send comments Etig n 1xty' operation of a community activ- Council ; Ea g °lihunicipal ity center and whether a bond Cegte` 030- Pitet Knob Road,. referendum should be called for Eagan, 55122