Issue 83 - Heights Highlights Fall 2009PAGE 1 OCTOBER 2009 ISSUE 83
Mayor's Message
Earlier this year it was with regret we
accepted the notice from Jim Kilburg
that he will be retiring from the Fire
Department at the end of this year. On
September 1st, Firefighter Tom Shields
retired from the Fire Department.
Together these two have contributed
nearly 50 years of service in protecting
the residents and businesses of
Mendota Heights. Jim and Tom repre-
sent the best of the many fine men and
women who take it upon themselves to become highly trained
firefighters, giving up their time with families and friends to pro-
tect our lives and property.
I have had the great pleasure of knowing Jim since grade
school. He has brought a level of passion and commitment to
the department that has almost no equal. He has been
Assistant Chief for the past 13 years and has taken on more
than his share of projects to better the department. Although the
energy he brings to his position continues to exceed all reason-
able expectations, it no longer met the high expectations he
sets for himself. I have known Tom for nearly all of his 20 years
with the department I am extremely grateful for his excellent
service to the community. Both of these men will be deeply
missed.
Earlier this summer the City Council appointed Dave Dreelan
to be the new Assistant Chief beginning January 1, 2010. 1 am
confident Dave will do an outstanding job, just as I am sure oth-
ers in the community will continue to step up to replace Tom
and other firefighters as they retire. As you see the firefighters
out in the community, take a moment to be thankful for all they
give to Mendota Heights.
Fire Prevention
Open House
Saturday October 10, 2009
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Mendota Heights Fire Station
2121 Dodd Road
*Visit with our
Firefighters; •'�
*Fire Truck Rides �.
*See Pluggie the Fire
Hydrant
*Free Hot Dogs
*Car Fire Demonstration
*Much More
SSINAW'In
Mass Telephone Notification System
Comes to Mendota Heights
Imagine that a rail car carrying toxic chemicals has derailed in a
residential area; a child has wandered away from her day care
and is missing; or perhaps an armed suspect is hiding from police.
How do police and fire agencies warn citizens about safety threats
near their homes or enlist their help?
Thanks to a new system in Dakota County, residents and busi-
nesses can receive timely, targeted information to help them stay
safe. The Dakota Communications Center (DCC), which provides
9-1-1 answering and public safety dispatch county -wide has part-
nered with the Mendota Heights Police and Fire departments to
provide the CodeRed emergency communication system, which
delivers emergency messages to residents. The system combines
computerized mapping software with a high speed telephone sys-
tem to rapidly deliver targeted messages to areas as small as a
city block or as large as an entire county.
While the system contains a large database of residential and
business telephone numbers, residents and businesses are
encouraged to self -register their mobile phones, text devices and
email addresses.
"Emergency notification systems are only as good as the tele-
phone database supporting them," said Mike Aschenbrener,
Mendota Heights Police Chief, and John Maczko, Mendota
Heights Fire Chief. "If your phone number is not in the database,
you will not be called." Because the system is programmed to call
phones based on the address provided for each number, residents
need to provide their address when they register.
Both Chief Aschenbrener and Chief Maczko encourage people
who rely on mobile phones, have recently moved, have changed
phone numbers, or wish to receive notification by text or email to
self -register. Residents can choose more than one way to be noti-
fied. Information collected will be used for emergency notification
purposes only.
Your land line telephone 911 information will be used automati-
cally. You must register all additional ways you would like to be
notified! Registration takes approximately 60 seconds to enter
your preferred choice of notification.
To register or learn more, people should visit the DCC website at
www.mn-dcc.org and click on the "CodeRed" link. Those without
internet service may contact the Dakota Communications Center
at 651.322.8660, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through
Friday.
Visit our website at
www.mendota-heights.com
.............................................................
PAGE 2 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES OCTOBER 2009
The 411 on 911
911—it's not just for emergencies anymore
If someone calls a police station in one of Dakota County's cities for an emergency, they are often asked to hang up and dial 911 or
the call is transferred. Why? The Dakota Communications Center's 911 dispatchers are responsive. They use state-of-the-art equip-
ment to automate data entry, and track the response to the emergency.
"If you need someone to respond—law enforcement, fire or medical—emergency
or otherwise, it's OK to call 911," emphasized Kent Therkelsen, the executive
director for the Dakota Communications Center, an emergency 911 joint dispatch
center serving Dakota County. Please call 911 for any situation that requires a
police officer at the scene: traffic accidents, burglaries, property damage, parking =if X j
complaints or ordinance violations. Calling 911 is also the right thing to do to
request an ambulance, receive medical assistance, report a fire, or signs of a fire I
such as smoke or fire alarms. Also use 911 to report suspicious or criminal activi-
ty such as shouts for help, breaking glass or suspicious vehicles or people.
Contact your local police department or sheriff's administrative phone line for information about city ordinances, the status of reports
or investigations, contacting a specific officer or employee, about a person under arrest, or about impounded vehicles or animals.
"Dispatchers skillfully evaluate each call ensuring that we handle emergencies before lower priority calls," Therkelsen said. So if you
need someone to respond, call 911. However, for those who just can't break with old habits, or those calling the Dakota
Communications Center from outside the County, you can call 322-2323, which will work in both 651 and 952 area codes.
After operating for 14 months and receiving nearly 200,000 emergency calls, dispatchers at the Dakota Communications Center con-
tinue to remind the public that they should call 911 not just for emergencies, but anytime they need law enforcement, fire, or medical
personnel to respond. Calling 911 when you need someone to respond helps dispatchers to be more efficient. When residents call
911 from a conventional telephone line, the dispatcher receives information from an automated system that helps them respond quick-
ly.
The efficient dispatching of law enforcement, fire and medical personnel is demonstrated by shorter response times.
In addition to the improved response time, the DCC will also save money. It's estimated that the regionalization of Dakota County's
five prior dispatch centers will save millions of tax dollars in operating costs over the first several years and another $3.8 million in
avoided capital costs. A new 800 MHz radio system has also enhanced communications, especially with other jurisdictions or outside
agencies.
river bluffs village
a partnership of community residents and DARTS
River Bluffs Village (RBV) coordinates household
resources and social activities that allow Village members
to live a healthy, meaningful life in their existing homes and
neighborhoods, maintaining their ties to the community they
live in.
RBV is open to adults 55 and older in Lilydale, Mendota,
Mendota Heights, Sunfish Lake, and West St. Paul.
Members have peace of mind knowing they may call RBV
for referrals for services ranging from computer assistance
to homemaking to nursing care.
Members may also participate in the variety of social
opportunities offered such as: a creative writing class, a
pilates class, lunch opportunities, and speaker events. An
office/gathering space for use by RBV members is coming
soon.
If you are interested in receiving information about RBV
membership, please contact Jessica Hagemann, Director of
River Bluffs Village, at 651-234-2241 or
RBVinfo@darts1.org
River Bluffs Village...
Your life ... Your home...
Your member community
The Recycling Zone
The Recycling Zone is a drop-off facility, for Dakota County residents,
and accepts household hazardous waste, recyclables and electronics. It
is located at 3365 South Highway 149 in Eagan. In 2008, over 3 million
pounds of household hazardous waste was collected at the Recycling
Zone.
It is very important that household hazardous waste items be disposed
of properly, and not be placed in a landfill. The Recycling Zone can
properly dispose of automotive fluids and batteries, lawn and garden fer-
tilizers and chemicals, household items (including paints, fluorescent
bulbs, sharps), scrap metal, electronic waste (fee applies), and recycla-
ble — including cash redemption for aluminum cans.
Please do your part to keep our landfills clean from household haz-
ardous wastes!
The hours for the Recycling Zone are:
Household Hazardous Waste
Wednesday - 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday - Noon - 5:00 p.m.
Friday - Closed
Saturday - 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Recycling
Wednesday - 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m
Thursday - Noon - 8:00 p.m.
Friday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday - 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
The
Re cling
Ye4, n e
C ac: mms w t res
!A,.
1cr�lzu gs�nma�srs
Residents can find out more by calling the Recycling Zone at 651-905-
4520 or visiting www.dakotacounty.us and searching "Recycling Zone."
PAGE 3 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES OCTOBER 2009
A Fond Farewell
Mendota Heights City Administrator Jim Danielson plans to
fficially retire this fall, after 30 years of service with the City
of Mendota Heights. Jim began his
career in Mendota Heights as the
city's first Public Works Director and _
engineer in 1979. In 2003, Jim was
promoted to the position of City
Administrator. The city projects Jim
is most proud of during his tenure as
City Administrator include the acqui-
sitions of historic Pilot Knob hill and
the Mendota Heights Par 3 golf
course, as well as the development
of the Village at Mendota Heights complex. Jim plans to
spend his retirement with family, golfing and at his cabin in
northern Minnesota. Although he will be greatly missed, we
wish Jim a happy, healthy & fun -filled retirement!
Engineering Staff Changes
The Engineering staff has been going through a tremen-
dous amount of change over the past few months. Tom
Knuth, the long-time Senior Engineering Technician for the
City, decided to retire on July 31 St. Tom had served the City
for over 40 years as a consultant and as an employee com-
bined. Tom's knowledge and dedication to the City will be
greatly missed. Happy Retirement, Tom!
Civil Engineer I Sam Kuchinka resigned from City employ-
ment also effective July 31 st to pursue an opportunity in a
different career field. Sam has started attending medical
,hoot at the University of
Minnesota. Sam is incredi-
bly intelligent, and will make
a great physician someday.
We wish him all the best in
his new career.
The Engineering a
Department hired a new N
Senior Engineering
Technician, Mr. Bobby Crane. Mike Albers &Bobby Crane
Bobby comes to the City from the private sector where he
worked as a design and construction technician. The City
brought Bobby on board in the summer Intern position for
several months and Tom Knuth immediately took him under
his wing. Bobby transitioned into the Technician position
upon Tom's retirement. At the same time, the City hired
Michael Albers into the Civil Engineer I position. Mike has
both private and public sector experience and has already
begun to fit in with City staff. Please take a moment the next
time you are at City Hall to welcome both Bobby and Mike to
Mendota Heights!
Adopt -A -Hydrant Program
Several years ago, the Mendota Heights Volunteer Fire
Department began the "Adopt -a -Hydrant Program" in which
residents volunteer to clear snow away from hydrants to keep
access to the hydrants clear. The program was initiated out
of concern that hydrants might be buried under a blanket of
;now and have restricted access in time of need.
The inability of firefighters to find a hydrant could seriously
-ipact their ability to fight a fire in your neighborhood. Will
�A please help the Fire Department and do your part to
:e your neighborhood safer? Sign up to "Adopt -a -
rant" by calling City Hall at 452-1850.
Roundabout To Be Constructed at
Visitation Drive and Mendota Heights Rd.
The City of Mendota Heights is working with the staffs at Visitation
School and Saint Thomas Academy to increase safety and improve
traffic flow at the intersection of Visitation Drive and Mendota Heights
Road. The City is proposing construction of a single -lane roundabout
at the intersection to calm traffic, and reduce the number and severity
of accidents at the intersection. The construction project will require a
temporary access point to be provided for Visitation School from their
north parking lot onto Lake Drive. This access point will only be oper-
ating for 2-3 weeks during the construction times when Visitation Drive
must be blocked off to
build the roundabout.
The access is tempo-
rary and will be
removed when con-
struction of the round-
about is complete.
Additionally, traffic may
be detoured around
the intersection during
construction. Signs
directing people along
the detour route will be
in place prior to construction beginning.
If there are any questions regarding the project, please call the
Engineering Department at 651-452-1850.
Sanitary Sewer Rates
The City of Mendota Heights operates and maintains the sanitary
sewer system throughout the City. All the waste conveyed by the sani-
tary sewer system is eventually routed to a wastewater treatment facili-
ty operated by the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services
Division (MCES). MCES, in turn, charges the City a fee based on the
amount of flow we contribute to the treatment facilities. Because of
these charges, and due to the City's ongoing maintenance of the utili-
ty, the City of Mendota Heights charges a fee (based on usage) to res-
idents and businesses that are utilizing the utility from their respective
properties. The rate the City charges for sanitary sewer usage has not
changed since 1994, and expenses have far exceeded revenues for
the past several years. Since 2002, the rate MCES charges the City
for use of their treatment facilities has gone up 69.5 %. As a result,
the City of Mendota Heights must increase the revenue generated
from the utility beginning with the January 2010 billing cycle.
The City is proposing a $15.00 quarterly increase to the base resi-
dential sanitary sewer rate. The commercial rates are proposed to
increase by an equal percentage to that of the residential rate. These
rate increases will stop the trend of the utility operating in deficit, and
will help the City continue its maintenance programs to ensure a viable
utility for the future. Even with the proposed rate increase, Mendota
Heights would retain the lowest sanitary sewer billing rates in northern
Dakota County.
At the October 6th City Council meeting, to be held at 7:00pm at City
Hall, the Council will be discussing the sanitary sewer rate increase.
The public is welcome to attend the meeting and offer their opinions to
the Council. Financial data regarding past performance of the utility
and the need for the increase will be discussed in greater detail at the
meeting. If you cannot attend the October 6th meeting, you can watch
the meeting live on local cable TV or live/on-demand through the City's
web page.
Any questions about the proposed rate increase can be made to the
Public Works Department at 651-452-1850.
PAGE 4 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES OCTOBER 2009
Change Your Clock —
Change Your Batteries 0,11
Mendota Heights Firefighters encour-
age everyone to participate in the l
annual "Change Your Clock -Change
Your Battery" campaign on Sunday, 1
November 1, 2009. When you change
your clock one hour back to standard
time, take a few minutes to replace the
batteries in your smoke alarm. If your detectors are dirty, vacuum
them out. It also a good idea to test your detectors once a month
and replace your detectors every ten years. Why is this so impor-
tant? Because smoke detectors save lives. The most commonly
cited cause of non -working smoke alarms is due to discharged or
missing batteries. If you have any questions, call 651-452-1850.
61st Annual Firefighter's Dance
The Mendota Heights Volunteer Fire Department will be having
their annual Firefighter's Dance on Saturday, November 21, 2009
Once again, this event will be held at Royal Cliff in Eagan. The
doors will open at 8:00 p.m. The band for the dance is The
Rockin' Hollywoods. The Rockin' Hollywoods present "Solid Gold
Rock & Roll" from the 1950's thru the 1980's with an energy and
excitement that captivates audiences of all ages. Last year's
event was very successful and a great time was had by all. As
there is no guaranteed seating, it is advised that you arrive early.
This is the Mendota Heights Fire Department fund-raiser. The
funds that are raised through ticket sales and donations support
fire prevention activities, uniforms,
and other department needs that
are not part of the city budget.'
ow
The Mendota Heights Fire
Department provides fire protec-
tion to Mendota Heights,
Mendota, Lilydale and Sunfish �.
Lake. There are organizations —'
that solicit funds by telephone,
but these groups do not assist,
nor are they associated with, the Mendota Heights Volunteer Fire
Department. Mendota Heights Firefighters will be going door-to-
door selling dance tickets throughout Mendota Heights. The fire-
fighters visit every residence and if the resident is not at home,
they leave the Fire Department Annual Report. Tickets are on
sale now or may be purchased at the door. If you have questions,
need tickets or would like to make a donation to the Mendota
Heights Fire Department, please call City Hall at (651) 452-1850
and ask for Nancy.
"No Parking" Ordinance & Snow
2009 Fire Prevention Week
This year's fire prevention theme for fire prevention week
(October 4-10, 2009) is "Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned."
This year's campaign focuses on ways to keep homes fire safe
and prevent painful burns. The statistics are staggering. Each
year roughly 3,000 people die as a result of home fires and
burns, and more than 200,000 individuals are seen in the nation's
emergency rooms for burn injures.
The most common types of burn injuries result from fire or flame
burns, scalds and contact burns. Burns are painful and can
result in serious scarring and even death; such injuries are entire-
ly preventable. There are extra precautions that we can take in
our homes such as ensuring that the curling iron is out of chil-
dren's reach or pot handles are turned away from the edge of the
stove. Keeping homes safe from fire and preventing devastating
burn injuries is a healthy change that we can make happen.
Following these simple safety rules, you can "Stay Fire Smart!
Don't Get Burned."
• Keep hot foods and liquids away from table and counter edges
so they cannot be pulled or knocked over.
• Have a 3 -foot "Kid -free" zone around the stove.
• Never hold a child in your arms while preparing hot food or
drinking a hot beverage.
• Be careful when using things that get hot such as curling irons,
ovens, irons, lamps and heaters.
• Install tamper-resistant receptacles to prevent a child from
sticking an object in the outlet.
• Never leave a child alone in a room with a lit candle, portable
heater, lit fireplace or stove, or where a hot appliance might be
in use.
• Set your hot water temperature no higher than 120 degrees.
• Install anti -scald valves on shower heads and faucets.
For 85 years, fire departments have observed Fire Prevention
Week, making it the longest running public health and safety
observance on record.
al Reminders
With winter approaching, please remember the following regarding snow removal and resident responsibilities:
* Residents cannot park their vehicles on a city street when snow accumulation reaches 2 inches or more until all streets are plowed.
* Night Time Parking Prohibited - November 1st - March 31st • No vehicles shall be parked on any
public street between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. from November 1st to March 31st.
" Residents are responsible for clearing their own driveways, and around mailboxes, newspaper tubes
and fire hydrants adjacent to their property.
* Areas for trash cans should be established at least 8 feet from the curb line.
State law advises that pushing/blowing snow from driveways and sidewalks onto public roads
may be punishable as a misdemeanor.
* Mailboxes should be secure enough to withstand the snow coming off of the plow and wing.
For more information, please visit the City website at www.mendota-heights.com or contact Public Works at 651-454-4059.
PAGE 5 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES OCTOBER 2009
YVII wMer Actispities L-3
Join us on fun, well chaperoned school's out youth trips during Fall and Winter Breaks. Bring your
friends, siblings & classmates. Bus departs/returns at Mendota Heights City Hall.
Pre -register at City Hall at 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, MN 55118 - (651) 452-1850
or online at www.mendota-heights.com/community events
Space is limited and trips fill quickly, so register early.
Fall Field Trips
L------------------------
Thursday, October 15th
Horseback Riding & Hayride
Join us at beautiful Bunker Hills Regional Park
as we ride through guided trails on your very
own horse. Following horseback riding, partic-
ipants will ride with their group on a hay ride.
After lunch (participants need to bring bag
lunch & beverage) the chaperones will assist
in roasting marshmallows by the campfire.
3unker Hills Stables requires a parent or guardian sign a
waiver for each participant. To download a copy of the waiv-
er, please go to www.mendota-heights.com/Community
Events/Parks & Recreation Programs/Fall and Winter Youth
Trips. Click on blue waiver link. Waiver must be mailed,
dropped off or faxed (651-452-8940) to Mendota Heights City
Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, MN 55118 on or before Monday, Oct.
12th. Riders will wear riding helmets which are included or you
may bring your own.
Cost: $35.00
Bus Depart/Return: MH City Hall - 9:45 a.m./3:20 p.m.
Ages: 8 yrs. old or older & 52 in. tall to ride.
Friday, October 16th
Grand Slam USA, Lunch & Rollerskating
We will start the fun at the brand new Grand Slam USA in
Burnsville. With your package you will receive ^\
3 hours of unlimited mini -golf, batting cages,
Krazy Kars, and your choice of unlimited Lazer
Tag or Play Zone. Along with this each partici-
pant will also receive 4 arcade tokens, and a
hot dog and pop. The group will then head to
Skateville for an afternoon of skating fun.
Rental is included with registration or partici-
pants may bring their own rollerblades. ($3.00
for rental of rollerblades). Bring extra money
`or concessions/arcade.
Cost: $21.00
Bus Depart/Return: MH City Hall - 9:10 a.m./3:15 p.m.
Ages: 6 years of age and older
.----------------------
Monday,
Winter. Break Field Trips . J
Monday, December 28th
Bowling, Lunch & Movie
First we start the day with two games of bowling (includes
shoes and bumper lanes if need-
ed) at Drkula's located in Inver
Grove Heights with a pizza/pop
lunch included. Next we are off to
Showplace 16 IGH for a G or PG
rated movie. Participants will
have 2-3 movies to choose from.
Bring extra money for snacks if rid
you would like.
Cost: $26.00
Bus Departs/Returns: MH City Hall - 9:00 a.m./3:40 p.m.
(approx. with movie end time, exact return time will be given
when you drop off your child on the day of the trip.)
Ages: 6 years of age and older
Tuesday, December 29th
Mall of America - Nickelodean Universe
We are off for a fun filled day at the new Nickelodean
Universe Amusement Park at the Mall of America. We will
have 5 hours of unlimited rides and your choice of a hamburg-
er, hot dog or chicken strip
lunch with french fries and drink
included. Bring extra money fori f,
snacks and game tokens if you
would like. 1
Cost: $30.00 (includes lunch)
Bus Depart/Return: MH City
Hall 8:50 a.m./3:20 p.m.
Ages: 8 years of age and older.
Register early this trip fills up i{ 01)
quickly!
1 * Register online at 1
1 www.mendota-heights.com 1
PAGE 6 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES OCTOBER 2009
Learn To Skate - Friendly Hills Park
Outdoor Ice Skating Lessons
This is a great opportunity to improve
your skating skills. Lessons are taught
by Rebecca, who is beginning her 10th c
season of professional instruction with
the City of Mendota Heights. Classes
are limited to 5 -7 participants, so regis-
ter early as classes fill quickly. If your
class is full, please call City Hall at 651-
452-1850 to be added to a waiting list as
we will add more classes if needed.
Please indicate the level and class
name, if using our registration form. You
may also register online at www.mendo-
ta-heights.com. Lessons are held at Friendly Hills Rink (2360
Pueblo Lane)
FEE: $34.00 for 5 weeks - Saturdays Jan. 2nd - 30th
Non -School District Students: $39.00
Please note: *Feb. 6 will be used for make -ups due to weather
cancellations. The instructor will set times for make-up classes.
Please call the skating lesson hotline before each lesson at
651-255-1173 for rink conditions/weather cancellations &
make up times.
Smalls and Tails - Ages 3-5 years old
Parents participate with 1 st time skater.
Learn tips to teach your child to skate.
Time: 9:30 a.m. — 10:00 a.m.
Beginners - Ages 6 and older
For skaters with no previous experience. Learn basic skills.
Time: 10:05 a.m. to 10:35 a.m.
Advanced Beginners - Ages 6 and older
Skaters who can skate forward or who have
completed the Beginners class.
Time: 10:40 a.m. — 11:10 a.m.
Intermediate and Funstyle-Freestyle - Ages 6 and older
For skaters who have completed Advanced Beginners Class.
Time: 11:15 a.m. — 11:45 a.m.
Cliff Timm Memorial
Fishing Derby Winners
Another successful fishing derby was held on Wednesday, July
8th at Rogers Lake Park. Sixty youth participated and 397 fish
were caught and released! Event sponsors included IGH Ace
Hardware, Gander Mountain, The Cliff Timm Trust, and MH resi-
dent Ira Kipp. Past Park & Recreation
Commissioners, Dick Spicer and
Larry Craighead tackled the job of •J
weighing all 397 fish. A special
thanks goes out to all sponsors and
event volunteers. 1
2009 Fishing Derby Winners:
Largest Fish:
August Anderson - 2 1/2 lbs.,
large mouth bass
Smallest Fish:
Ryan Creamer - 3/8 oz.
Most Fish Caught:
Anna Elliott - 69 fish
Help
Warming House/Rink Attendants. These part-time, paid seasonal
positions are ideal for students, adults or seniors. Must be 16 yrs.
of age or older. Must be responsible & reliable. Stop by City Hall
for an application.
All applications must be submitted by October 14th.
Warming House/Rink Hours
The City of Mendota Heights has 3 outdoor hockey and pleasure
rinks that will be open
(weather permitting) from
Mid -December through
early March. A rink atten-
dant will be on duty during
the regular warming house
hours listed below. The
outdoor rinks and warming
houses will be CLOSED
and outdoor programs will �
be canceled when the air
temperature is below zero.
Please keep children home on these days. For information con-
cerning ice rinks call the ice rink/warming house hotline at 651-
255-1174, for the skating lesson hotline call 255-1173.
Rink Locations:
* Friendly Hills Park — 2360 Pueblo Lane —
East of Pueblo Lane & South of Decorah Lane.
* Marie Park — 1780 Lilac Lane —
North side of Marie Ave. '/4 mile west of Victoria.
* Wentworth Park — 739 Wentworth Avenue —
North side of Wentworth &'/z Mile West of Dodd Road.
Warming House Hours:
Weekdays 4:00 p.m — 8:30 p.m.
Saturdays 9:00 a.m.— 8:30 p.m.
Sundays Noon — 6:00 p.m.
School Vacation Days Noon — 8:30 p.m.
Christmas/New Year's Eve Noon — 4:00 p.m.
Christmas Closed
New Years Day Noon — 8:30 p.m.
Youth Gymnastics Saturday Mornings
Saturdays: Nov. 7th — Dec. 12th (6 weeks)
Classes include: Balance Beam, Uneven Bars, Floor Exercise,
Tumbling & more. All classes held at Sibley High School
Gymnastics Gym (use Delaware Entrance) Girls must wear leo-
tards; boys may wear shorts & t -shirts. For boys & girls ages 3 &
older. Please indicate session number when registering.
Session I:
Tumbling Tykes, Ages 3 & 4 - 8:30 a.m. — 9:00 a.m.
Tumbling Tots, Ages 4 & 5 - 9:05 a.m. -9:35 a.m.
Kinder Tumbling, Ages 5 & 6 - 9:40 a.m. -10:20 a.m.
Beginner, Ages 6 & up - 10:25 a.m. - 11:25 a.m.
Cost per child:
Tumbling: Resident $50.00 Non -Resident $55.00
Beginner: Resident $75.00 Non -Resident $80.00
* Register online at I
www.mendota-heights.com
PAGE 7 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES OCTOBER 2009
�mportant Phone Numbers &
I
Recreation Information I
You may register for programs or
Itake out park permits at the recep-
Itionist desk in City Hall during normal i
(business hours (Monday through f
(Friday from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.).
(Park & Recreation Programmer, Teresa /
IGangelhoff, 651-452-1850.
I* MH Adult Softball League
I Teresa @ 651-452-1850
F Skating Lesson Hot Line: 651-255-1173
* Ice Rink Hotline: 651-255-1174
I* Sibley Sting Youth Soccer: www.Stingsoccer.org
I* Thompson Park Activity Center: 651-403-8300
I* DARTS: 651-455-1560
I* Fort Snelling State Park - 612-725-2389
I* Special Olympics: 651-452-1850
I* DNR information Center: 651-296-6157
I* Mendota Heights Garden Club: 651-454-3337
I* Dakota County Parks: 651-438-4671
I* St. Thomas Ice Arena: 651-209-6020
I* Mendota Heights Mom's Club:
www,mendotaheightsmomsclub.me
I* Mendota Heights Athletic Association (MHAA) - All
youth sports (excluding tennis & golf): Please call MHAA
@ 651-263-3760 or sign up on line at:
www.mendotaheightsathietics.com
L---------------------
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�outh Region Stars
The Area 12 Special Olympics "STARS" are "in training"
and participating in a wide variety of sports and activities
which include: soccer, floor hockey, swimming and basket-
ball. New athletes can be registered at any time during
the year. Call Teresa at 651-452-1850 for more informa-
tion or go to the South Region Star website at:
www.southregionstars.com
City of Mendota Heights
Parks & Recreation
Program Registration Options
1. Register online at:
http://www.mendota-heights.com
Visa and MasterCard accepted.
2. Mail in or drop off registration forms at City Hall,
(forms available at City Hall or
http://www.mendota-heights.com)
Mail or drop off completed forms
along with payment to the
City of Mendota Heights Parks & Recreation,
1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, MN 55118.
City Hall Hours of Operation:
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday — Friday
Please call MH City Hall at 651-452-1850
if you have any questions.
Thompson Park Activity Center (TPAC)
for 55 + Adults
If you are looking for activities and fun, check out THOMPSON
PARK ACTIVITY CENTER located at 1200 Stassen Lane (off
Butler and Highway 52) in WSP. This is our area (Northern
Dakota County TriDistrict Community Education) 55+ center.
Mendota Heights residents are welcome to join classes or take
part in any of the activities.
If you would like to get on the TPAC mailing list for the
"Thompson Times" which lists all upcoming activities and classes,
or need more information on what is offered, please call the
Thompson Park Activity Center at 651-403-8300 or stop in for a
visit.
Northern Dakota County
TriDistrict Community Education
Our school district offers
enrichment classes for all
ages. For program informa-
tion please call 651-403-8313
or visit the District 197
Community Education website
to view the most current
Community Education cata-
logue and class offerings at:
http://www.celearn4ever.org
Simple Steps in Dakota County!
The Fall 2009 Simple Steps program began September 1.
Registrations for the Fall Simple Steps program will be accepted
anytime before November 15th. Join your friends, family, and
co-workers in taking steps to discover more energy, reduce stress,
and enhance your health! Walking is a great way to spend time
with your friends!
What is Simple Steps?�IMI�I�
Simple Steps is a walking
program for those who live
work in Dakota County
(and those who walk with off 1 jIY V
-'
them). The goal of the pro- V
II
gram is to increase the n Da KOta C ou ntt
number of people who walk
regularly. The program is
free and is easy to partici-
pate in - all you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and at least
one friend to support you. Simple Steps participants can win
some great prizes by walking regularly with their group. Everyone
earns a reward by simply logging minutes walked for the first six
weeks after registering (while supplies last).
Sign up for Simple Steps and get a free Simple Steps T-
shirt!! Go to: www.dakotacounty.us (search for Simple Steps)
after you register just stop in at MH City Hall and pick up
your free t -shirt while supplies/sizes last!
PAGE 8 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES OCTOBER 2009
Fourth Annual 5K - A Success
The City of Mendota Heights held its fourth annual 5K run/walk
on Saturday, June 6th. A total of 260 runners and walkers partici-
pated in this year's event.
Dominick Rosario, age 19, had the fastest male race time at
16:18 and Molly Noel, age 19, had the fastest women's time at
21:23.
The City of Mendota Heights would like to thank everyone who
participated in the race and all of the sponsors that made the
2009 5K race possible: Mendakota Country Club, Holiday -
Lilydale, Axel's, Moose Country, BP - Lilydale, Lucky 13,
Courtyard by Marriott, Super America - North & South in Mendota
Heights, Gallagher's, DeGidio's, Cherokee Sirloin Room, Romero
Auto, MH Par 3, Shamrock's, Tom Reid's, Bob Brackey, Sage
Market, Caribou Coffee, Eagle Street Grille, Bennett's, Vesco
Vino, Downtowner, O'Gara's, Teresa's Mexican Restaurant,
Rainbow Foods - WSP, La Cucaracha, US Bank, Joe Senser's, I
Nonni, Valley Lounge, Casa Vieja, Mancini's, R.C. Dick's Foods,
Lilydale Barber's, Lilydale Pool & Yacht Club, Snap Fitness,
Bogey's, La Fonda, Snyder's - MH.
All race proceeds were donated to the Minnesota Special
Olympics. Next year's 5K event will be held on
Saturday, June 5th.
' Drop Box Reminder
There are 2 drop boxes outside of City Hall for your
' convenience. One is for utility bills and the other is
for US Mail. Just drive up and drop it off!
J
City Directory
Council Members:
John Huber, Mayor 450-0729
Ultan Duggan 452-5179
Sandra Krebsbach 454-5696
Mary Jeanne Schneeman 457-4337
Jack Vitelli 455-5625
Staff Members:
Jim Danielson, City Administrator
452-1850
Kathleen Swanson, City Clerk
452-1850
Mike Aschenbrener, Police Chief
452-1366
John Maczko, Fire Chief
255-1371
John Mazzitello, Public Work Dir.
452-1850
Jake Sedlacek, Asst. to Admin.
452-1850
Tom Olund, Public Works Supvr.
454-4059
Kristen Schabacker, Finance Dir.
452-1850
Teresa Gangelhoff, Rec. Prgmr,
452-1850
Paul Berg & Dick Gill,
Code Enforcement Officers
452-1850
From:
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
arks Celebration Thank You
The Mendota Heights City Council and Parks and Recreation
taff would like to express their deepest gratitude to all sponsor
nd volunteers of the Mendota Heights Parks Celebration:
Platinum Event Sponsors ($1,000.00 or more): Gateway
Bank, Mendakota Animal Hospital, Mendakota Country Club,
Boltz's Taekwando.
Gold Event Sponsors ($500.00 up to $999.00): City & County
Credit Union, Patterson Companies
Silver Event Sponsors ($250.00 up to $499.00): Affordable
Travel Vacations, American Bank, Beverly Cory with Edward
Jones, Gabriel Financial Group, Lexington Heights Apartments,
Mendakota Pediatrics, Saint Paul's United Methodist Church,
Valmont/Applied Coating, Allegra Print & Imaging, Anytime
Fitness, Courtyard by Marriott, Hoffman Homes, Inc., Liberty
Mutual, Mendota Heights McDonald's, TAJ Technologies, Allied
Chiropractic, Boehm's Cycle, Funtastic Party, Lapp, Libra Law
Firm, Paster Enterprises, United Properties LLC, Schaeffer
Financial
Bronze Sponsor & Prize Donations ($100.00 up to $249.00):
Alltech Engineering Corp., Howry Residential Services, Inc.,
Mendota Heights Par 3, Paul Portz, Betty Schuster, Visitation
Monastery, Children's Country Day, Hudson Co., Inc., Moose
Country, R.J. Ryan Construction, Teresa's Mexican Restaurant,
Winthrop & Weinstine, P.A., Ehlers & Associates, LCS Company,
Pam's Artistic Hair Design, Saint Thomas Academy, Viking
Plastic Packaging
Friends of the Parks Sponsors & Prize Donations ($99.00
and under): Annex Cleaners, Chipolte, Great Clips IMAX
Theatre - MN Zoo, Church of Saint Peter, 3rd Lair, Gerten's,
Richard Spicer (past park & rec. commissioner), Bernard Friel
Photography, GP Companies, Inc.,
Subway of Mendota Heights.
Special thanks to the following
businesses, community groups, -
MH City Staff and all of our vol-
unteers who gave their time and
talents to the celebration: MH
Athletic Association, MH Mom's
Club, USTA Northern Section,
Sound & Fury Men's Soccer Team,
Larry Craighead (past park & rec. commissioner), Council
Member - Ultan Duggan, MH Fire Dept., Boehm's Bike Shop,
MH Police Dept, Park & Recreation Commissioners: Mike Toth,
Paul Portz & Maureen Brackey and the Brackey Family.