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2019-Spring Heights HighlightsPictured above: ALMAS members with Director Mr. Hanson and ALMAS students testifying. SPRING 2019 MSP Airport Listening Session 3 Service Award Nominations 3 Parks Celebration 3 Severe Weather Awareness Week 3 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update 4 Community Safety 5 Annual Tree Sale 6 Shred Event 6 Surface Water Clean-up 7 Garden Design Workshop 7 Parks and Recreation 8 Mendota Heights Par 3 back cover MENDOTA HEIGHTSHEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS a small town feel in an urban setting CALENDAR Park & Rec Registration Opens 3/4 Garden Maintenance Workshop 3/6 Shred Event 4/20 Shoe and Clothing Recycling 4/20 - 28 Airport Listening Session 4/24 Spring Clean-Up Day 5/4 Scott Patrick Memorial 5k 6/1 A Movement for Youth – by Youth At a City Council meeting in March of 2018, students from Henry Sib- ley High School’s ALMAS group presented information on the dangers and effects tobacco products, especially flavored and menthol tobacco products, are having on youth. They communicated the impor- tance of tobacco prevention and advocated for flavored tobacco restrictions, limiting the sale of such products to tobacco-only shops, and raising the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to 21. The AL- MAS group stands for Anglos Latinos Mo- tivados a Superarse (Anglos Latinos Moti- vated to Succeed) – and succeed they did. The ALMAS group has been working to- wards a tobacco-free future since 2005. Azucena Esparza, president of ALMAS indicates, “My motivation to get involved started when I realized that nicotine ad- diction was more than just a joke. I used to think that it was just a funny thing that my peers would mess around with, but then I learned of the effects and started getting worried for them.” Witnessing an increase in peers using elec- tronic cigarettes, also known as vaping, the group presented to council how tobacco products, especially flavored varieties, are creating lifetime tobacco users. They re- ferred to a 2017 Minnesota Youth Tobacco Survey conducted by the Minnesota De- partment of Health indicating a 50% rise in e-cigarette use in the three years prior. It was also clear to the group that youth were being targeted by the tobacco industry with sleek advertising campaigns, strategic in- store product placement, colorful candy- style packaging, and candy, fruit, and mint- flavor profiles that engage attention – and adoption – at an early age. The group’s concern over their peers, and the future of all youth, spurred them to ac- tion and civic participation. Ms. Esparza states, “We have testified, sat in hearings and worked together on testifying. It is a long process but so worth it when we get to hear the ordinance officially gets passed.” Henry Sibley High School teacher and AL- MAS Director Robert Hanson states, “What I love about this group is that they don't rest on their laurels. They see kids every day vaping at school. They want to do some- thing about it. Keeping tobacco delivering devices out of the hands of children is the main focus of this work because it is affect- ing their community. They know that they have been specifically targeted by ‘Big To- bacco’ and aren't happy about it.” On May 15, 2018, the Mendota Heights City Council unanimously approved an ordinance amendment banning the sale of many flavored tobacco products at all- licensed vendors in the city, effective Sep- tember 1, 2018. On November 20, 2018, the City Council unanimously voted to raise the age of tobacco sales from 18 to 21, and added menthol, mint and wintergreen to the list of flavored tobacco restrictions. This ordinance amendment is effective March 1, 2019. According to Elyse Less, executive director of the Tobacco-Free Alliance MN, Mendota Heights is the first city outside of the state of California to pass a full ban on the sale of all flavored tobacco products. Spring Clean-Up Day Reserve Saturday, May 4 for Spring Clean-Up Day! This popular event allows residents to drop off unwanted items at Mendakota Park, such as outdated/broken electron- ics, mattresses, appliances, tires, bicycles, and more – to be environmentally disposed of. Pricing informa- tion and drop off hours will be announced soon. 2 : CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTSCITY HALLNEIL’S News I am pleased to be representing the City of Mendota Heights as your re-elected mayor. The swearing-in cer- emony on January 2 was an honor and a privilege, and I look forward to another two years of positive improve- ments for our city. We live in a great city with informed residents who really care about our future. First, I would like to congratulate re-elected Councilors Ultan Duggan and Liz Petschel, who were sworn in on January 2. Their dedication and commitment of service to the community will con- tinue over the next four years, and it has been a pleasure serving with these talented and experienced professionals to date. Additionally, I would like to recognize the work of exiting Parks and Recreation Commissioners Stephanie Levine and Nissa Tupper, whose countless hours contributed to improved parks and recreational program management. Commissioner Levine has served the maximum nine-year term limit for this position, and Commissioner Tupper one year of service, and I appreciate their enthusiasm and contributions. Retiring as Planning Commissioner is Litton Field, Jr., who has served for eleven years. He served many of these years as Chair of the Commission, and he was also the Commission’s representative on the City’s Traffic Safety Committee. His knowledge and experi- ence will be greatly missed. Appointed to the open positions, I welcome Parks and Recreation Commissioners Stephanie Meyer and Dan Sherer, and Planning Commissioner Andrew Katz; all began three-year terms in Febru- ary. We are fortunate to have their experience and insights, and I look forward to collaborating with them. More exciting news to share is that we remain on track for the fire station expansion/improvement project. The City Council has ap- proved final plans and directed city staff to seek bids for the esti- mated $7 million project, which will be funded by the sale of capi- tal improvement bonds. Bids were opened on February 21, with an anticipated award of contracts to be considered at the March 5 City Council meeting. Ground breaking is preliminarily set for April 9, weather permitting. We are also wrapping-up the 2040 Comprehensive Plan; the final draft will be finalized soon for distribution to the adjacent com- munities and outside agencies for review. The review period can take up to six months to complete, and upon review completion, the plan is sent back to the City for any changes and later adoption by the City Council. The final adoption is likely to take place in mid to late 2019. And mark your calendars for the fourteenth annual Officer Scott Patrick Memorial 5K Walk/Run benefiting Minnesota Special Olympics the morning of June 1 at The Village of Mendota Heights. All proceeds from the 5K go directly to Special Olympics of Min- nesota. Watch for 5K registration to open March 4 on the city web- site. In conjunction with the 5K is the annual Parks Celebration, a free community event, featuring a kickoff movie in the park the evening of May 31 and family-fun entertainment at Mendakota Park on June 1. In closing, thank you again for the opportunity to serve this vibrant community. I am honored to be your mayor! Neil Garlock, Mayor Elected Officials Take Office Re-elected Mayor Neil Garlock and re-elected City Council Mem- bers Ultan Duggan and Liz Petschel were sworn in at the January 2 City Council Meeting by City Administrator Mark McNeill. The mayor is elected to a two-year term, and the council members to a four-year term. Contact information for elected officials can be found on the city website: mendota-heights.com/mayorcouncil. Photos: Mayor Garlock, Councilor Petschel, Councilor Duggan Welcome New Commissioners The City Council has appointed Stephanie Meyer and Dan Sherer to serve as Parks and Recreation Commissioners, fill- ing two vacancies on the commission. Their terms began in February and will run for three years. The City Council has appointed Andrew Katz to serve as a Planning Commissioner, filling one vacancy on the commis- sion. Commissioner Katz's term began in February and will run for three years. Advisory commission contact information can be found on the city website: mendota-heights.com/advisorycommissions. HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 3CITY NEWSMSP Airport Quarterly Listening Session Residents are invited to attend a quarterly Listening Session sponsored by the MAC Noise Program Office on Wednesday, April 24, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, in the City Hall Council Chambers. Attendees will receive an update on MSP Noise Over- sight Committee (NOC) activities, will be briefed on MSP operational levels and procedures, and will have an opportunity to provide comments and voice concerns on aircraft noise issues. Residents plan- ning to attend are encouraged to sub- mit comments/questions in advance of the meeting through a Listening Session Comment Form at www.macnoise.com/ our-neighbors/public-input-meeting-form. Community Service Award Nominations Due March 15 Do you know an individual who exem- plifies outstanding volunteer service to the local community? Nominations are being accepted through March 15 for the third annual Garold “Jerry” Murphy Community Service Award. This award is presented in April to an individual who demonstrates enthusiasm, compassion, and leadership in their volunteer service to the cities of Mendota Heights, Mendota or Lilydale. Eligibility information and nomination forms are available on the city’s website or may be picked up at City Hall during business hours. Severe Weather Awareness Week April 8-12 According to the National Weather Service, Minnesota experiences an average of 40 tornadoes per year. Prepare for severe weather by practicing for it at home and work. There will be two statewide tornado drills on Thursday, April 11 at 1:45 p.m and 6:45 pm. Outdoor warning sirens and NOAA Weather Radios will sound in a simulated tornado warning. To prepare your family the Minnesota Department of Public Safety suggests: ƒCreating/updating an emergency plan, and practice it with your entire family ƒMake sure everyone has up-to-date contact information ƒBuild a family emergency kit together ƒCheck with places your family spends time at, such as church, school, sports facilities, to learn what their emergency plans are ƒTalk about what you will do if your family was not together during a disaster Learn more: dps.mn.gov, search “Severe Weather” Subscribe to Friday News/Just the Facts Stay connected with weekly city news delivered directly to your email inbox. Subscribe online at mendota-heights.com/publications. Parks Celebration Save the Date The City of Mendota Heights Parks Celebration is Saturday, June 1, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at Mendakota Park. This free event brings the com- munity together to reconnect with neighbors and celebrates the beauty of our city. A movie night will occur the evening of Friday, May 31. Parks Celebration Sponsorship Open Calling all businesses and organizations! The City is seeking sponsors for the Parks Celebra- tion event; sponsorships are a wonderful way to connect with the local community. Sponsors have the opportunity to host movie night, host a booth activity, or simply make a donation to support this family-fun event. Donations cov- er event expenses such as bounce houses, face painting, a petting zoo and a dunk tank. Please visit the city’s website for a sponsorship packet. The deadline for sponsorship is May 1. Scott Patrick Memorial 5K Walk/Run It is not too early to begin registering for the 14th Annual Scott Patrick Memorial 5K Walk/Run to benefit Special Olympics. The event will be held Saturday, June 1 at The Village at Mendota Heights. Registration is $25 before 6pm on May 31, or $30 on the day of the event. Registration opens March 4 online at www.mendota-heights.com or at City Hall. Stay tuned for details! Awards will be given for the first three male and female winners in age categories 19 and under, 20-49 (Open Division), and 50 and over (Master Division). Awards ceremony and prize drawing will take place upon the conclusion of the race near the finish line. 4 : CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS4 : CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTSNEW DEVELOPMENTS2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE The 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update for the community is wrapping-up, and soon the city will be finalizing the final draft document for distribution to the adjacent communities and outside agencies for review. This review period can take up to six months to complete. Once this review period has completed, the city will then forward the plan on to the Metropolitan Council for official review, whereupon completion of their review, the plan is sent back to the city for any changes and later adoption by the City Council. This final acceptance and action will likely take place in mid to late 2019. More information and related scheduled meetings will be made available on the City’s web- site, social media and other public postings and announcements. If you have any questions on the proposed comprehensive plan update or these future meet- ings, please call Community Development Director Tim Benetti at 651.255.1142 or email timb@mendota-heights.com. Friendly Hills Middle School Independent School District No. 197 is seeking approvals to construct a new 7,700 sq. ft. multi-purpose building addition to the existing Friendly Hills Middle School facility. The new addition will be placed near the back northwest corner of the school. Plans also include restructuring the main parking lot into a staff/visitor parking; a family vehicle drop-off lane; and a new entrance and driveway from Huber Drive to the east. The district plans to further modify the current bus drop-off and service/delivery areas to the south, with the closing of the existing bus lane entrance off Mendota Heights Road, and creating a new (wider) singular entrance off Mendota Heights Road, which will be lined up better with Lockwood Drive to the south. WoodSpring Suites Hotel The new Woodspring Suites Hotel at 1380 Northland Drive is putting on the finishing touches and interior improvements, and is scheduled for opening in April 2019. The new hotel will offer 122 rooms with over 48,000 sq. ft. of space. Mendota Apartments Construction on the first phase of a new 70-unit, market-rate apartment building on the former Mendota Mo- tel site, located at 2180 Highway 13, is well underway, with the second phase, consisting of 64-68 units of market- rate senior (aged 55+) housing, is set to begin later this spring. Both apartment buildings are scheduled for opening and leasing in mid to late 2019 or early 2020. Summit Companies Summit Fire Protection Services Com- panies of St. Paul, recently purchased the former Laser Technologies office building located at 2500 Lexington Av- enue, and have begun remodeling the building to accommodate the reloca- tion of their business headquarters to Mendota Heights. Summit plans to occupy the building later this year. HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 5COMMUNITY SAFETYFire Station Expansion/Improvements Update On January 15, the City Council adopted a resolution approving plans and speci- fications, and authorized advertising for bids for the addition to, and remodeling of, the Mendota Heights Fire Station. The city has opted to use a Construction Management (CM) option for the construction of this project. As a result, there will be multiple bids on twenty-one different components (i.e.; excavation/grading; framing; HVAC; finishing; etc.) of the project, rather than a single composite price which can be immediately compared to others. The CM project typically results in greater efficiencies and workmanship. Bids were opened on February 21; pending analysis and favorable review by the Architect and Construction Manager, an award of contracts may be considered at the March 5 City Council Meeting. Groundbreaking is anticipated when weather permits in the spring, with a preliminary target of April 9. Distracted Driving Distracted driving has quickly become an epi- demic on our roads, constantly putting lives in danger. The Minnesota State Patrol says one in four crashes and one in five traffic fatalities are caused by distracted drivers. The laws on distracted driving are going to change. There is a Hands-Free Device Bill making its way through Minnesota Legisla- ture now that would ban the use of hand-held cellphones while driving but may allow hands-free devices, such as voice-activated phones or one-touch ca- pability. This alone has the potential to cut distracted driving deaths by as much as 20 percent. Below is an overview of the current laws regarding the use of cellphones while operating a vehicle. Texting and Web Access ƒIt is illegal for drivers of all ages to compose, read, or send electronic messages or access the Internet on a wireless device when the vehicle is in motion or part of traffic. This includes being stopped in traffic or at a light. The law does not apply to devices that are permanently affixed to the vehicle or global position- ing or navigation systems. MSS 169.475 Cell Phone Use ƒIt is illegal for drivers under age 18 to use a cell phone, whether hand-held or hands-free — except to call 911 in an emergency. MSS 171.05 MSS 171.055.2(a) ƒCell phone use is totally banned for school bus drivers. MSS 169.443.9(b) Reckless or Careless Driving ƒDistracted drivers can be ticketed for reckless or careless driving when their actions demonstrate a disregard for the safety or rights of others. MSS 169.13 It’s the Speed Limit – Not the Speed Suggestion! OBEY THE SIGN OR PAY THE FINE There are many myths about speeding, created to help us feel better about the choices we make behind the wheel, but the bottom line is speeding is speeding. Let’s take a look at a few of the more pop- ular excuses heard. I’m following the flow of traffic. As soon as you are over the speed limit or under the legal minimum, you are liable, even if you are passing someone. You’re just trying to fill your quota. There is NO quota, it is against the law. Law en- forcement often have special traffic enforcement details or protocols to specifically watch for viola- tions including speed, seatbelts, license/registra- tion or distracted driving. What’s the big deal – I’m not hurting anyone! In 2017, nationwide there were 34,247 fatal mo- tor vehicle crashes and 37,133 fatalities, of which 9,717 were attributed solely to speed.* Speed pre- vention efforts contribute to safer roadways and communities. During speed-related stops, offi- cers often encounter and apprehend individuals who perpetrated a crime, are driving without a license or insurance, or have arrest warrants. You won’t be stopped if you drive just a little above the speed limit. There is no “buffer zone” for speed. If you are OK with speeding, then you need to be OK with receiving your citation for speeding. Remember, your life is not the only one at stake when you get behind the wheel. Reckless actions can and do have a serious impact on the lives and well-being of others. Take care and slow down! *Source: The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety 6 : CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS6 : CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTSGREEN COMMUNITIESDecluttering Solutions for an Organized Home Have you been inspired to purge your stuff by watching shows like Tidying Up with Marie Kondo? Instead of throwing away all the books and clothes that don’t spark joy, get rid of them in a way that is good for the environment. Donate. ƒDrop-off unwanted clothes, jewelry and furniture to a second- hand store or have items picked up at your home. Check out the Reuse in Dakota County Guide at www.dakotacounty.us, search donate. ƒDonate unneeded sheets, blankets and towels to Bridging Inc. in Bloomington or bring them to the Animal Humane Society to be used for pet bedding, grooming or cleaning up. Sell. Use Craigslist, NextDoor or Facebook Marketplace to sell excess goods. You can use the Mendota Heights Police Station as a meeting spot for added safety. Prevent and borrow. The next time you desire a new kitchen gad- get, book, or tool, see if you can buy it used or borrow it. Use an app like NextDoor or Peerby to borrow from neighbors for free. Repair. Get broken items fixed so they will be useful again. Attend a Fix-It Clinic to get free repair help or bring them to one of the many local repair businesses. Dispose. If you aren’t sure where to take cleaning products, furni- ture or confidential documents, ask the Green Guide at co.dakota. mn.us/Environment/RecyclingDisposalGuide. Get control of your life and read all the decluttering tips on RethinkRecycling.com. Partially funded by Dakota County and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Annual Spring Sale –Trees, Shrubs & More Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County is offering a selection of trees, shrubs, vines, and roses for your yard or balcony. Included in the sale are the usual favorites, as well as blueberries, plum, maple, elm, blue spruce, lilac, hydrangea, clematis, and many other varieties. With a focus on pollinator- friendly plants, new this year is the perennial native liatris (commonly known as blazing star) – a favorite of monarch butterflies and other pollinators. Purchase for yourself, or donate a Tribute Tree as a gift or memorial which is then planted in a Mendota Heights Park (or other park of your choosing). Order online through April 19 at shop.friendsoftheparks.org/ annual-tree-sale. Orders must be picked up on May 4, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, in Maplewood. Tribute Trees are available to purchase year-round and are selected, placed, and planted by park staff in the spring following the purchase. Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that has been promoting and protecting parks, trails, and open space for 34 years. Donations to the parks are tax-deductible. For more information visit www.friendsoftheparks.org. How to Report Mailbox Damage from Snowplows The City will repair or replace any properly installed mailboxes, hit by city plow, up to a $75 value for the post and $75 for the mail- box itself. If you experience damage, an online “Report a Mailbox” form is available to submit at mendota-heights.com/How Do I/Online Forms/Report a Mailbox, or call City Hall at 651.452.1850. Repairs will be completed as quickly as possible. If the post has been bro- ken and the ground is frozen, city crews will do a temporary repair and install a new post when the ground is thawed. The city is not obligated to repair or replace mailboxes which are damaged by the weight of the snow, or damage resulting from improperly installed mailboxes. Search Mailbox Installation Guide on the website for de- tails on properly installed mailboxes. HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 7 Free Clean Water Garden Design Workshops Enhance your home’s landscaping this year with the addition of a na- tive garden, raingarden, or shoreline stabilization planting. The Dakota County Soil and Water Conserva- tion District is offering FREE intro- ductory workshops on creating beautiful gardens to keep our waters clean. Work- shop registration is requested, with various dates and locations to select from. Work- shops begin at 6 pm and last for one hour. Workshop attendees will be introduced to dozens of beautiful and affordable garden designs, the benefits they provide, and will learn how they can get started on a project of their own. After attending, participants will become eligible to attend a Design Course and apply for a grant of $250 and on-site assistance. Already have a raingarden, native pollina- tor garden, or shoreline planting? Attend a FREE maintenance workshop March 6, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, at City Hall. Information, workshop dates/locations, and registration details can be found at Da- kotaSWCD.org/CleanWater_Form.html, call 651.480.7777, or email swcd@co.dakota. mn.us.NATURAL ResourcesPut on your Boots and Prune Now Late winter is the ideal time to prune most trees and shrubs. With the plants, insects and diseases in dormancy it is a safe time to trim your leafy landscape. Plants will be moving into the growing season when the pruning cuts can heal rather than dry out. Begin by sterilizing your pruning equipment with a 10% bleach solu- tion both before and after pruning to prevent accidental transfer of disease. Sharp tools work best for clean cuts with minimal damage to plant tissue. Most deciduous trees and shrubs are candidates for winter pruning. Excep- tions are maples because of sap flow beginning and shrubs with spring flowers, such as lilacs and azaleas. Prune those right AFTER they bloom. Pruning allows for shape improve- ment, overlapping branch elimination, opening up the tree to more sunlight in the center and removal of broken, damaged or diseased material. Mark- ing areas needing removal in the fall is helpful to identify problem areas which aren’t obvious in the spring. Oak trees must be pruned before April to prevent the spread of oak wilt. Plants with fireblight damage, cankers, black knot or galls benefit from prun- ing while the damage is visible but not active. Cut well below the damage to guarantee complete removal of dis- eased tissue. Important: to reduce re-infection and spread of disease, bag refuse for green material pick-up by your garbage hauler. Larger wood should be LO- CALLY burned or composted. It is il- legal to move all hardwood firewood out of EAB quarantine areas; Mendota Heights is within this area. Visit mda. state.mn.us/eab or the U of M exten- sion yard and garden site at extension. umn.edu/yard-and-garden for more. Spring Cleaning for our Surface Waters When the snow and ice melts, and warm weather returns, we often turn to Spring Cleaning – our home, vehicles, yards, etc. This spring, turn your spring cleaning into things you can do to protect and clean up our surface waters! ƒWhen raking up leaves, branches, and debris from your yard, dispose of them properly. Compost yard waste in your backyard, or bring it to a compost site, recycling site, or other acceptable disposal site. Avoid raking leaves and yard debris into the street. This adds additional nutrients and pollutants to our lakes, rivers, and surface waters! ƒSweep up extra salt on your driveway or sidewalk for re-use next year. ƒBring your car to a car wash. Most car washes are required to treat their waste water. When you wash your car in your driveway, the wastewater flows into storm drains and into our surface waters, carrying pollutants with it. ƒClean up after your pets. E-coli from pet waste left in your yard, or in public areas, runs off the ground during rain events and ends up in our streams, riv- ers, lakes and wetlands. For more ways to protect our surface wa- ters: freshwater.org/2009/09/25/10-ways-to- keep-lakes-clean-2. Shoe & Clothing Recycling Event: April 20-28 An outdoor metal drop-box will be available at City Hall to collect items, in any condition, for recycling. Items in good condition are reused, and items in poor condition are repurposed. 8 : CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Spring/Summer Registration Opens March 4 at 8:00am! Register online at www.mendota-heights.com or in person at City Hall. New Recreation Registration Software Parks and Recreation will be introducing CivicRec, a new registration software for spring/summer program registration. Upon system changeover, all users will need to create a new account. CivicRec will feature easier use, and capabilities for community feedback, facility rentals, sports league management, and enhanced data analysis to assist with program evalu- ation and improvements. Watch for more on this exciting development in the near future! FIELD TRIPS June 13: MN Zoo We will spend the day adventuring at the MN Zoo. Please bring a bag lunch and beverage. Concessions will be available at the zoo. Ages: 6 – 13 $25 per child Leave: 9:30 am Return: 4:00 pm June 20: Conquer Ninja Warrior Gym & Madison’s Place Playground & Splash Pad In the morning we will train and compete like ninjas and in the afternoon we will spend outside at the playground and splash pad. Please bring a bag lunch and beverage. Ages: 6-13 $25 per child Leave: 9:30 am Return: 4:15 pm June 27: MN Twins Game Come cheer on the MN Twins as they battle against the Tampa Bay Rays at Target Field. We will return roughly 30 minutes after the game finishes. Please bring a bag lunch and money for concessions if you want snacks. Ages: 8-13 $25 per child Leave: 10:00 am Return: 4:00 pm July 11: Stages Theater & AirMaxx In the morning we will see the play Willy Wonka and spend the rest of the day at Air- Maxx on the trampolines, playing laser tag and mini-golf. Ages: 6-13 $30 per child Leave: 9:00 am Return: 3:30 pm July 17: Rockin’ Jump & Saints Game Spend the morning jumping on trampolines and in the afternoon cheer on the Saint Paul Saints versus the Kansas City T- Bones. Ages: 9-14 $30 per child Leave: 9:30 am Return: 4:30 pm July 18: Cascade Bay We will spend the day under the sun at Cas- cade Bay, with 7 waterslides, a lazy river and play mini-golf. A pizza lunch is provided. Please bring swimsuit, towel and sunscreen. Concessions are available for snacks. Ages: 8-13 $25 per child Leave: 10:30 am Return: 4:00 pm July 25: Valley Fair Spend the day with us on the Powertower, Steel Venom and the North Star. We will also have access to Soak City waterpark. Please bring money to purchase lunch/snacks. Kids must be 48 inches to go on the rides. Ages: 9-14 $35 per child Leave: 9:15am Return: 4:00 pm Field Trip pick up and drop off location: City Hall 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights Abrakadoodle Art Camps Little Doodlers: 2 – 5 year olds July 8 -11 9:00 – 9:50am Harmon Park Neighborhood Center $50 per child/adult pair This four day class meets from 9:00-9:50 am Mon - Thurs and is for 2-5 yr olds and a grownup. We will try our hand at painting, sculpting, collaging and more. We’ll make lots of fun and colorful creations. LOL Characters and Pets Camp: 5 – 11 year olds July 8 – 9 10:00 – 12:30pm Harmon Park Neighborhood Center $65 per child Learn how to draw your favorite LOL char- acters and pets and sculpt your favorite LOL pet in this fun two-day camp. Bring a bever- age & nut-free snack. Art Blast Camp: 5 – 11 years olds July 10 – 11 10:00 – 12:30pm Harmon Park Neighborhood Center $65 per child For kids that just want to have a blast mak- ing super cool creations! Make a seahorse medallion out of clay, sculpt lizards, paint on canvas, learn to draw cartoon characters & even weave a pencil holder out of a plas- tic cup. Everything will be colorful. Bring a beverage and a nut-free snack.PARKS & RECREATION Skateboard Camp Staff from 3rd Lair has been teaching the Twin Cities how to skateboard since 1997, and now it’s your turn to learn from the best. Whether it’s your first day on board, or you’re an experienced rider looking to take it to the next level, we have you covered. Highly trained instructors teach proven techniques in a fun and sup- portive setting. Equipment provided or you may bring your own! Rogers Lake Skate Park $100 per camp June 17-19 July 15-17 August 5-7 10am-Noon 10am-Noon 10am-Noon HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 9 Sports Unlimited Camps Basketball Camp Learn the rules of bas- ketball while working on team play and sportsman- ship through skill develop- ment and small group games. The following individual skills will be taught: shooting, passing, dribbling, offense and defense. June 17 – June 20 Ages: 6 – 12 9:00am – 12:00pm St. Thomas Academy Gym $75 per child Register by: June 9 Ninja Warrior Camp Participants will have fun testing their skills and abil- ities while going through various obstacles: tunnel crawl, cone weave, noodles crawl, mat rolls, parachute run, fitness ladders, hula hoop jumps and hurdles. A different course is set up each day. June 24 – June 27 Ages: 4 – 8 9:00am – 11:00am Harmon Park – West St. Paul $65 per child Register by: June 16 Kickball / Dodgeball Camp Have fun while playing the classic game of kickball and different variations of dodgeball including: Trench Ball, Dodge Football, Ga-Ga Ball and much more. July 15 – July 18 Ages: 6 - 12 9:00am – 12:00pm Harmon Park – West St. Paul $75 per child Register by: July 7 Flag Football Camp Learn the rules of flag football while working on team play and sportsman- ship through skill develop- ment and games. The following skills will be taught: passing, catching, kicking and strate- gies of offense and defense. Kensington South Park Ages: 6 – 12 9:00am – 12:00pm $75 per child Session 1: July 22 – July 25 Register by: July 14 Session 2: August 5 – August 8 Register by: July 28 Cheer – Dance – Tumbling Camp Learn the motion/jump technique, sideline and performance cheers and dance routines. The final day participants will perform a cheerleading program for family and friends. July 22 – July 25 Ages: 5 – 10 9:00am – 12:00pm Kensington South Park $80 per child Register by: July 14 Disc Golf Camp Learn the rules of disc golf while working on team play and sportsmanship through skill development and games. The following skills will be taught: types of discs, shots, grips, and strategies of disc golf. Discs provided during camp. July 29 – August 1 Ages: 8 – 14 9:00am – 12:00pm Garlough Park – West St. Paul $75 per child Register by: July 21 PARKS & RECREATIONSafety Camp This experience will last a lifetime. Camp leaders include volunteers from local police and fire departments. Safety camp participants will learn about stranger safety, first-aid, how to react to fires, and much more! July 9 and 10 Youth entering grades 3 & 4 in the fall 8:00am-3:30pm Kaposia Park, South Saint Paul $28 includes: Lunch and snacks Recreation Fee Assistance Program A Recreation Fee Assistance Program is available to eligible Mendota Heights residents for participation in recreation programs. Qualification details, eligible program information, and an application can be found at www.mendota-heights.com For more information contact Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence: meredithl@mendota-heights.com or 651.255.1354 10 : CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTSPARKS & RECREATIONWeek 1: June 10-14 Scavenger Hunt/Detective Week Are you able to crack the Mendota Heights case? Join us for a week full of fun scavenger hunts, footprint detective practice, maneuvering a detective maze, and fingerprinting. Campers will solve a mystery case in groups, while also making their own spy decoder, body silhouette, and fingerprint identification card. Week 2: June 17-21 Ninja Warrior Week Is your child interested in learning skills to become the next Ninja War- rior? Join us for a daily obstacle course, caution-tape maze, minute-to-win- it games and twister challenges. Children will design their own bandana, sweatband, and make their very own nunchucks and ninjas. Week 3: June 24-28 Water Week On a hot summer day, there is nothing more fun than playing with water. Join us for slip and slides, water balloon fights, water obstacle courses and water limbo! Campers will make their own sponge balls and drip, drop, dunk machine. Come stay cool this summer and join us for some water fun! Week 4: July 8-12 Challenge/Olympics Week Do you have dreams of becoming an Olympian? Join us for the Mendota Heights Olympic games this summer including an opening ceremony and closing ceremo- ny. Children will compete in different activities and Olympic games throughout the week. Campers will leave with handmade Olympic game bracelets, Olympic medals, Olympic rings, and torches. Week 5: July 15-19 Artistic Creations/Empowerment Week Dive into the world of art by trying new crafts, and by making games for the group to play. Children will make their own personal logos and construct their own superhero and story. Don’t miss this creative week of arts, crafts, and fun. Week 6: July 22-26 Game Show Mania Has your child ever wanted to be a contestant on a TV game show? This will be their opportunity to live in the limelight. Children will compete in many different local game shows and in class-wide board game tournaments. In will be an intense week of fun, friend- ship and competition. Week 7: July 29-August 2 Nature Unleashed Learning to respect and love nature is important for upcoming youth. Join us for chalk twister, nature javelin competitions, tug-o-war, potato sack races, balloon tosses, 3-legged races, nature crafts and nature cooking projects. Our nature walks will be one to remember! We will have professionals in the naturalist world come to present activities and engage youth in nature. Family Kickball Tournament TriDistrict Com- munity Education – Family Programming is teaming up with the city of Mendota Heights to throw a Community Kickball Tournament. We invite community mem- bers to create teams of 8-15 people for a day of fun, food and friendship. Each team must have at least 4 children on their ros- ter. Each registered participant will also re- ceive a meal on the day of the tournament. Teams need one person to register on the TriDistrict Community Education website or can register by phone at 651.403.8313. Registration opens March 11. June 9 $45 per team Summer Playground Program Join us at Mendakota Park (rainy days at Mendota Heights City Hall) for some summer fun! Please bring sunscreen, bug spray, water bottle, a snack, hat, change of clothes and a towel each day. Sign up for all weeks or just certain weeks. 8:15-10:15am 4-6 year olds Cost: $50 per child per week 10:30am-12:30pm 7-9 year olds Cost: $50 per child per week Cliff Timm Memorial Fishing Derby Bring your fishing pole and come on down to Roger’s Lake fishing pier to catch “the big one!” Prizes will be provided for all par- ticipants. Parents and grandparents are welcome to watch. We will be providing hotdogs and beverages. One lucky boy or girl will win a Min- nesota Life- time Fishing License. Thursday, August 1 Ages: 14 and under $10 5pm-7pm Adult Softball League Get your friends and family together for summer softball in Mendota Heights. The season will start the week of April 22 and run for ten weeks, with the week of July 4 off. This is a D-level league. Leagues are sanctioned by the MSF/NSF. Men’s: Tuesdays/Thursdays Women’s: Tuesdays Price: $700 To register contact Meredith Lawrence, 651.255.1354. Adults (USTA) Lessons Have fun, stay in shape and make new friends while playing the lifetime sport of tennis! ƒBeginner - For those who have little or no tennis experience. Learn the basic strokes and begin to rally. All participants will be given a new HEAD tennis racquet. ƒAdvanced Beginner - For those who know the basic strokes and are work- ing further on ball tracking, movement and consistency. Players are ready for introductory social match play. Session 1: Thursdays, June 6-July 18 No tennis the week of July 4 Session 2: Thursdays, July 25-August 29 Beginners: 6:00-7:00pm Advanced Beginners: 7:00-8:00pm Location: Marie Park Tour de Rec Programs Join us this summer for our traveling programs bringing recreation to neighborhood parks. Staff will set up activities and equipment for youth to enjoy for free. There will be games, sports, arts, crafts and more! Drop in, no registration required. Ages: 6-13 June 13: Wentworth Park (MH) 5:00-6:30 Thursday June 24: Garlough Park (WSP) 1:30-3:00 Monday July 16: Harmon Park (WSP) 11:30-1:00 Tuesday July 24 : Southview Park (WSP) 1:00-3:00 Wednesday *with WSP PD* July 30: Wentworth Park (MH)2:00-3:30 Tuesday August 12: Harmon Park (WSP) 3:30-5:00 Monday Join us to learn the game and have fun improving your skills while doing drills and playing matches! Programs run from June 10- July 25. No tennis the week of July 4. F R E E F R E E HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 11PARKS & RECREATIONLittles Tennis: Ages 4-7 Fee: $45 (6 sessions / 1 time a week) This is an introduction to tennis using mini nets and junior tennis balls. Parents/chaperones are en- couraged to stay. Littles Time Day Location 1 8:00-8:45am Thurs Visitation 2 8:50-9:35am Thurs Visitation 3 9:40-10:25am Thurs Visitation 4 10:30-11:15am Thurs Visitation 5 11:20am-12:15pm Thur Visitation 6 5:30-6:15pm Mon Marie Park 7 6:30-7:15pm Mon Marie Park 8 5:30-6:15pm Wed Marie Park 9 6:30-7:15pm Wed Marie Park 10 8:30-9:15am Sat Marie Park 11 9:20-10:05am Sat Marie Park Tennis Lessons: Ages 7-12 $90 (18 sessions / 3 times a week) Beginner, intermediate, and advanced play. Sign up all of your children for one session and we will di- vide children by age and ability. Youth Time Day Location 1 8:00-8:55am M/Tu/W Visitation 2 9:00-9:55am M/Tu/W Visitation 3 10:00-10:55am M/Tu/W Visitation 4 11:00-11:55am M/Tu/W Visitation Tennis Lessons: Ages 7-12 $45 (1 time a week) Youth Time Day Location 5 10:15-11:15am Sat Marie Park 6 11:30-12:20pm Sat Marie Park In-House Tennis League Ages 10+ (3 times a week) Fee: $100 Instructors will divide partici- pants into singles and doubles play each day and will be on hand to keep the matches moving. In- structors will provide coaching on serving, strokes, footwork, and scoring. 12:00-12:55pm M/Tu/W Visitation USTA Team Tennis Ages: 12-18 Fee: $150 This program is for youth looking to play at the high- est level. Players should be on Varsity or JV at their school or intend to be on their school’s team. There will be a 14 and under team and an 18 and under team. Matches will begin in June with the 14U team playing on Tuesdays and the 18U team playing on Thursdays. There will be 2-3 home matches and 2-3 away matches. Instructors will provide coaching and supervision for matches. Players must get their own rides to matches. 1:00-2:30pm Visitation for practices Players must have or purchase a USTA membership to compete. To learn more please contact Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator 651.255.1354.      City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 www.mendota-heights.com HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS SPRING 2019 ISSUE: 115 City Directory Council Members: Neil Garlock, Mayor 651.775.3850 Ultan Duggan 651.452.5179 Joel Paper 612.237.1133 Liz Petschel 651.454.3256 Jay Miller 651.994.0482 Staff Members: City Hall 651.452.1850 Mark McNeill, City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson, Asst. City Administrator Mike Andrejka, Building Official Tim Benetti, Community Development Dir. Dave Dreelan, Fire Chief Ryan Ruzek, Public Works Director Kristen Schabacker, Finance Director Lorri Smith, City Clerk Police Department Emergency 911 Police Administration 651.452.1366 Kelly McCarthy, Chief of Police Public Works Facility 651.454.4059 Terry Blum, Public Works Superintendent © Copyright 2019 City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Hours: Mon. - Fri., 8:00 am – 4:30 pm www.mendota-heights.com Follow Us Learn more about the City of Mendota Heights and keep updated with happenings by following the city online. Facebook.com/MendotaHeightsMN Twitter.com/@mendota_heights Facebook.com/MendotaHeightsPD Facebook.com/MHParksandRec Twitter.com/@MHeightsPD Adult Golf Leagues Sign up on your own or with a four- some for League Play. All levels of ex- perience are welcome! You will have a standing tee time for the summer. Available times can be seen on our website. No leagues the week of July 4. Monday Night Co-Ed Tee times from 5:00-6:45pm May 27-August 12 $130 per player Tuesday Morning Senior Co-Ed Tee times from 8:00-10:00am May 28-August 13 $100 per player Wednesday Afternoon/Evening Women’s Tee times from 3:00-6:45pm May 29-August 14 $130 per player Tiger Tots Golf This program features the basics of golf and golf etiquette, while focusing on loving the game of golf. Ages: 4-6 $25 Mondays: 9:00-9:45am and 10:00-10:45am Session #1: June 10, 17, 24 Session #2: July 8, 15, 22 Session #3: July 29, August 5, 12 Maximum 10 participants in each class Junior Golf League Grow your game and play in a league this sum- mer. Must know the game of golf and be able to play unsupervised. Children will play in groups of 4 children. No programming the week of July 4 Ages: 6-15 $115 Wednesdays & Fridays 9:30am-11:30am tee times June 10 - August 12 Junior Golf Program Learn techniques and strategies from golf coach- es, while gaining experience on the course. Ages: 6-11 $80 Monday-Thursday 12pm-2pm Sessions available: Week 1: June 10-13 Week 5: July 15-18 Week 2: June 17-20 Week 6: July 22-25 Week 3: June 24-27 Week 7: July 29-Aug 1 Week 4: July 8-11 Week 8: August 5-8 Par 3 Coupon $3.00 off one round of golf: Use this coupon for $3 off your next round of golf at the Mendota Heights Par 3. Valid Through May 15, 2019. Coupon can only be used once. Registration Opens March 4 at 8:00am