CityConnect - November/December 2023 by City of Blaine

BlaineMN.gov

CityConnect November/December 2023

What’s Inside

Department Spotlight: Public Works Streets Division............................3

CM Leslie Larson, Stacy Morse (Rep. Emmer’s Office), CM Lori Saroya, Com. Julie Braastad, CM Jess Robertson, Com. Matt Look, Rep. Frank Hornstein, CM Terra Fleming, Rep. Nolan West, Sen. Michael Kreun, Mayor Tim Sanders, Com. Julie Jeppson, Governor Tim Walz, CM Tom Newland, Rep. Matt Norris, Rep. Erin Koegel, Sen. Scott Dibble, CM Chris Massoglia

Polar Plunge Comes to Blaine.......................................................5

Highway 65 Funding Celebration Governor Walz Visits Blaine to Kickoff Project

Thousands Enjoy Blaine Fall Community Events.........................................8

The Highway 65 reconstruction project is fully funded. Before construction begins the project team joined with elected officials from all levels of government to celebrate the funding milestone. Mayor Tim Sanders and the entire Blaine City Council were on hand to welcome Governor Tim Walz to Blaine. Members of the Minnesota Legislature and the Anoka County Board of Commissioners also joined the celebration. The State of Minnesota is providing $146.5 million for the project and the federal government is providing the remaining $49 million. The reconstruction project will create overpasses that will carry Highway 65 over the local cross street at 99th, 105th, 109th, and 117th Avenues. The project will eliminate stoplights and the dangerous crossings. With safety and quality of life improvements at the center of the project, this will deliver the infrastructure improvements that Blaine residents deserve. Follow the project at BlaineMN.gov/ThriveOn65.

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID ADVANCED MAIL

City Prepares 2024 Annual Budget

City of Blaine 10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine MN 55449

POSTMASTER: TIME SENSITIVE MAIL

DATED MATERIAL PREPARED BY THE COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION

ECRWSS

POSTAL CUSTOMER

Learn More About the General Fund Budget and the Truth in Taxation Meeting The City has been working on the 2024 budget for the last several months. The budget process begins early in the year when the City Council identifies priorities and provides general guidance to city staff. City departments then spend time each spring reviewing the current budget and making modifications and requests for the next calendar year. All the requests and modifications are reviewed by the Finance Department and ultimately by the city manager. The city manager is responsible for presenting a draft budget to the City Council. The draft budget is presented in the summer and then the Council is able to dig in to start working through the budget. By law the Council must set a preliminary tax levy by the end of September. After the preliminary tax levy is set, it can not be raised it can only be lowered before final adoption in December. Residents can participate in the budget process through public meetings, questions to staff, and by contacting their Councilmembers.

Truth In Taxation Public Meeting Monday, December 18, 7PM

Mayor and Council Contact Information BlaineMN.gov/CityCouncil Staff Contact Information BlaineMN.gov/Directory

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BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Upcoming Meetings

Recycling Calendar November s

City Council*

December s

Blaine City Hall 10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449 763-784-6700 Communications@BlaineMN.gov

January s

Holiday

City Council MAYOR Tim Sanders 763-203-3286 TSanders@BlaineMN.gov

WARD 1 Tom Newland 612-961-1811 TNewland@BlaineMN.gov Lori Saroya 612-516-1073 LSaroya@BlaineMN.gov

WARD 2 Leslie Larson 612-489-9651 LeslieLarson@BlaineMN.gov Jess Robertson 763-607-2233 JRobertson@BlaineMN.gov

WARD 3 Terra Fleming 612-513-5231 TFleming@BlaineMN.gov Chris Massoglia 612-524-9447 CMassoglia@BlaineMN.gov

CITY MANAGER Michelle Wolfe 763-785-6120 MWolfe@BlaineMN.gov

Zone A

Zone B

For more information, visit WaltersRecycling.com or call 763-780-8464.

City Directory Police & Fire...............................................911

November 6 | November 20 December 4 | December 18 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Natural Resources Conservation Board* November 21 | December 19 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Park Board* November 28 | December 26 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Planning Commission* November 14 | December 12 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Traffic Commission* December 5 | March 5 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers *Meetings can be seen live on cable channel 16 and 799. A livestream of meetings is available at BlaineMN.gov/Video.

Stay Connected

CIVICREADY

Police (non-emergency) ....... 763-785-6168 Fire (non-emergency)............ 763-786-4436 Public Works After Hours...... 763-427-1212

Receive Emergency Communications BlaineMN.gov/CivicReady

City Hall................................... 763-784-6700 Mary Ann Young Center........ 763-786-9375 Public Works........................... 763-785-6165

NotifyMe®

Building Inspections.............. 763-785-6170 City Cable Channel 16 .......... 763-785-6181 City Clerk ................................ 763-785-6122 City Manager.......................... 763-785-6120 Communications.................... 763-785-6181 Community Standards.......... 763-785-6146 Community Outreach............ 763-717-2692 Economic Development........ 763-785-6180 Engineering............................. 763-785-6172 Finance.................................... 763-717-2677 Fire Inspections ..................... 763-785-6187 Forestry .................................. 763-717-2716 Housing Services ................... 763-785-6146 Human Resources ................. 763-785-6109 Newsletter.............................. 763-785-6181 North Metro TV...................... 763-780-8241 Parks & Recreation ............... 763-785-6164 Planning & Zoning ................. 763-785-6180 Recycling & Solid Waste ....... 763-785-6141 Sewer Backup......................... 763-785-6165 Streets .................................... 763-785-6165 Stormwater............................. 763-785-6172 Utility Billing ........................... 763-785-6141 Water & Sewer System ......... 763-785-6165 Web.......................................... 763-717-2638

Connect with your community and sign up for topics that interest you BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe

CommunityConnect A Crime Prevention Partnership BlaineMN.gov/ CommunityConnect

CityConnect is published bimonthly by the City of Blaine and distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the city newsletter are available at BlaineMN.gov/Newsletter

November/December 2023

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Introducing the Best of Blaine Blaine Police Department’s Community Spotlight Program Do you know someone in our community who goes above and beyond to make Blaine a better place? We believe it is time to celebrate these unsung heroes and give them the recognition they deserve. The Blaine Police Department’s Community Spotlight Program, Best of Blaine, is designed to acknowledge and highlight the exceptional efforts of individuals who contribute to creating safer, more resilient neighborhoods. It serves as a platform to recognize their outstanding contributions, share their stories, and inspire others to get involved in the community. Each month, the Blaine Police Department will feature an outstanding individual that lives or works in Blaine on our social media pages. Individuals can be ambassadors of public safety by actively participating in their communities and promoting a culture of safety and preparedness. This includes leading neighborhood groups, emergency response training, community clean up initiatives, traffic safety campaigns, disaster preparedness, child safety initiatives, community education, supporting vulnerable populations, community engagement, and many other ways in which people make our Blaine community safer and more secure.

SBM Santa Parade Tour Monday, December 4 West Blaine

Officer Nick Traffie with Night to Unite Party Organizer

How Can You Get Involved?

1. Nominate a Hero: Know someone who deserves recognition for their contributions to public safety? Nominate them for the Best of Blaine.

2. Spread the Word: Tell others about the program on social media, community bulletin boards, and in your social networks to inspire others to nominate heroes they may know.

3. Be a Hero: Get involved in your community and be an ambassador for public safety. Maybe you will be nominated one day!

To learn more about the program or nominate someone, visit BlaineMN.gov/CommunitySpotlight. Contact CommunityOutreach@BlaineMN.gov with questions.

Tuesday, December 5 Southeast Blaine Wednesday, December 6 Club West, TPC, The Lakes Thursday, December 7 East Blaine Ho-Ho-Ho! He’s making a list and checking it twice. He’s gonna find out who’s naughty or nice. The Spring Lake Park-Blaine-Mounds View (SBM) firefighters have reached out to the North Pole and can confirm that Santa is planning on making a special appearance again this year for the annual SBM Santa Parade food drive! Parades will be on December 4, 5, 6, 7 and travel through all three cities. Please watch SBM’s website and social media pages for updated information on parade routes and start times as we get closer to Santa’s arrival. Viewing locations, route changes, and other announcements will be available on SBM Fire social media pages and the website at SBMFire.org.

City of Blaine Public Works Streets Division

Department Spotlight Public Works Streets Division Blaine Public Works is organized into several divisions. The Streets Division is a team of 11 professionals, including a foreperson and two sign shop workers. They bring over 150 years of combined experience to the challenges they face. Snow plowing and pothole patching are perhaps the most recognized services led by this team. When the team is called out to plow city streets after a snowstorm, they are joined by staff from all Blaine Public Works divisions to complete that important job. The team’s work extends to ensuring the integrity of our roads by patching open holes and creating smooth driving surfaces. They are also responsible for tree trimming and removal, particularly hazardous trees near roadways, and addressing high-priority concerns such as Emerald Ash Borer infestations. Streets also handles many issues reported by Blaine residents. Removing debris and garbage dumped in city streets, fixing sidewalk problems, and downed signs. The sign shop is often upgrading existing signs and crafting new ones for various city departments. Their role extends to setting up warning signs and barriers as needed, contributing to the safety and organization of the city streets. Experience, combined with important equipment, allows the Streets Division to tackle any challenge that comes their way with confidence. Keeping Blaine safe, well-maintained, and responsive to the evolving needs of all Blaine’s residents and visitors. Learn more about Blaine Public Works at BlaineMN.gov/PublicWorks.

Christmas Tree Collection Walters Recycling and Refuse will be collecting Christmas trees the first two weeks of the year from January 2-6 (delayed one day due to the New Year’s Day holiday) and January 8-12. Trees will be collected the day after your regular garbage collection day. The garbage truck driver makes a list of all the trees that are out and on the next day Walters will collect the trees that have been set out. Just set the trees out on your regular service day, and it will be collected the next day.

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BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Blaine Police Department Debuts New Outreach Trailer In mid-September, the Blaine Police Department trailer received a makeover with a unique wrap design that blends Blaine PD’s patrol graphics with images of what makes Blaine special. It’s not just a trailer; it’s a rolling piece of our community’s spirit!

Board and Commission Openings Applications Accepted through December 31 The Blaine City Council is seeking applicants for several advisory boards and commissions, including the Charter Commission, Natural Resources Conservation Board, Park Advisory Board, and Traffic Commission. Board and commission members provide input and guidance on the many different matters a city like Blaine faces. Requirements to serve include being a resident of Blaine, attending monthly meetings, and having a community interest. Residents who are interested in applying are encouraged to learn more about what each board and commission does by watching meetings and reviewing agendas at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas. Read descriptions of each board or commission and apply today at BlaineMN.gov/ BoardsandCommissions.

Keep an eye out for the Community Outreach trailer at various events and outreach initiatives throughout the City. It is a symbol of Blaine PD’s commitment to fostering strong community bonds and ensuring the safety and well-being of all our residents. This fall the Community Outreach trailer has been out to several events. If you see the trailer be sure to stop by to check out the fun and connect with our outreach team.

Community Outreach Staff Emily Douglas and Officer Brian Wiens

Winter Reminders and Tips Helpful Reminders from Public Works • Fall street sweeping crews are out now. Please keep cars and any obstacles out of the road as much as possible to allow crews to do their job. • Boulevard tree trimming is completed in the winter months as time allows. • After a snowfall do not plow, blow, or shovel snow onto or across into any public street. This is against Minnesota state law. • After a snowstorm the city roadways are the first priority. Sidewalks and park trails will be cleared after the roadways. • Any sod damage caused by city plows will be repaired with new dirt and grass seed in the spring. • Blaine Public Works is responsible for plowing only city streets. MnDOT and Anoka County also have plow crews assigned to their roads in Blaine as well as private contractors on private neighborhood streets. • The City of Blaine routinely posts plow updates on social media before, during, and after a snowstorm. • Help plow crews locate the curb by marking the edge with a wood stake. Free wood stakes are available at the public works building.

Questions? Call 763-784-6700.

School Board Election Information

Pre-snowfall Mailbox Inspection - Now is a great time to check your mailbox post condition. Can it handle the weight of a snow drift? The City does not assume liability for mailboxes damaged during normal plowing operations, unless it is determined that the damaged mailbox met the installation recommendations. See who is responsible for plowing your road at BlaineMN.gov/SnowPlow. For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/PublicWorks.

Tuesday, November 7 Note Polling Locations Both the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the Spring Lake Park School District will be holding school board elections this fall. Voting locations for school board elections are different than your regular polling place. In-person absentee voting is also only available at the Anoka County Elections Office at the Anoka County Government Center in Anoka. To find your school board voting location, visit MNVotes.org or contact your school district office.

Winter Parking Reminder Regulations in Effect from November 1 thru April 1, 2-7am •

No parking on any street from 2AM until 7AM. A permit for overnight parking may be obtained from the Blaine Police Department in emergency situations.

•

No street parking after a snowfall of two inches or more until the street is fully plowed.

November/December 2023

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Blaine Recycling Saturdays 8am — noon 3rd Saturday of Each Month

Polar Plunge Comes to Blaine Saturday, February 24, Lakeside Commons Park The Polar Plunge is an annual event that raises money for Special Olympics Minnesota. The event is held during the winter, when thousands of participants across the state jump into icy cold waters despite the cold temperatures. The Anoka County Polar Plunge has been hosted by the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office for the past 11 years, but in 2024 the City of Blaine will be hosting this great event for the first time. Statewide there are 20 plunge events and we are working to make the Blaine event the best. The Blaine Police Department and city staff have a long history of participating in the Polar Plunge and now that it is taking place in our own backyard, it is time for the Blaine community to take the plunge. Now is the time to start forming your team and join in the fun. We have a goal of raising $155,000 to support Special Olympics MN through the Anoka County Polar Plunge. You can join a team, start your own team, sign up to volunteer, donate to a plunger, or just show up to support those jumping in the icy waters at Lakeside Commons Park. The event will be at Lakeside Commons Park on February 24, 2024. Sign up, make a donation, register to volunteer and more at BlaineMN.gov/PolarPlunge.

Drop-Off Location Recycle Technologies Enter at 1525 - 99th Lane NE The City of Blaine sponsors a recycling drop-off day the third Saturday of each month. Participants do not need to be a Blaine resident to bring items to the drop-off day. Please note, no garbage will be accepted. Follow the signs for the entrance and staff directions through the drop-off process. The recycling drop-off day is funded by Anoka County and Minnesota SCORE funds (Select Committee on Recycling and the Environment).

Recycle Technologies 763-559-5130 RecycleTechnologies.com Cash or Check Only Mattresses, box springs, carpet, appliances, fluorescent lamps, electronics, rechargeable batteries, and tires are some of the items collected. Free items include scrap metal and vehicle batteries. See a complete list of fees at BlaineMN.gov/ RecyclingSaturdays

Randy’s Environmental Services 763-972-3335 RandysEnvironmental Services.com

Help Bring Businesses to Blaine City Continues to Market to New Businesses The City of Blaine is an attractive market for businesses and developers. Over the last several years the City has connected with dozens of business owners that are considering Blaine for a new location or a new start up business. Right now the City is focused on a few different industries. The City is always looking to connect with new restaurant groups, both sit down and fast casual. Just this year we have seen several new food options open in Blaine with more on the way. The City continues to look into bringing in a new grocery option to the community. The City is glad to have solid relationships with our existing grocers but there is room for additional competition and grocery styles.

How Can Residents Help? Many retail and service type businesses have a way for individuals to request a new location for their community. For example, Trader Joe’s has a form on their corporate website to request a store in your community. The City has met with Trader Joe’s and having the community fill out the form does help in those conversations. You can find the Trader Joe’s request form at BlaineMN.gov/ComeToBlaine.

Randy’s offers free paper shredding. Please note, there may be long wait times for shredding. Four box or bag limit for paper shredding.

Walters Recycling & Refuse 763-780-8464 WaltersRecycling.com/Blaine Contact Walters to report missed garbage, recycling, or yard waste pickup.

City Recycling Information 763-785-6141 BlaineMN.gov/Recycle

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BlaineParks.com or BlaineEvents.com - Recreation Connection

RecConnect Fall 2023

Fall program registration is now open. Check out all the great program offerings at BlaineParks.com/Register. Sign up for the RecConnect online at BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe, choose News: BlaineParks. Winter/Spring program registration begins Monday, December 11 at 8AM.

Babysitting Ages 11 and up

Learn to be responsible babysitters by examining safety guidelines, child development, finding jobs, rates, and first aid. Hands-on experience with diapers and bottle feeding included. Bring a doll, lunch, and beverage. Held at Blaine City Hall in the Cloverleaf A Room. Wednesday, December 27, 9am-3pm $80 res; $88 nr For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Tech Academy Grades 1-7

All classes are virtual and need the following requirements:

. .. .. . Cookie Decorating All Ages You and your child will have a great time decorating cookies for the holidays. The City will supply one dozen cookies and all of the toppings. Bring a container to take your cookies home. Dress for the mess! Held at Blaine City Hall. Thursday, December 14 Session 1 (ages 10 & under): 5-5:45pm Session 2 (ages 10 & under): 6-6:45pm Session 2 (any age): 7-7:45pm $15 res; $16 nr

Computer: PC (Windows XP or later) or Mac (OSX) With at least a 2GHz processor and 4GB of RAM Broadband internet Webcam Microphone and speakers Zoom installed

New! Dungeons & Dragons: One Shot Campaign – grades 1-5 Grades 1 to 5 Saturday, November 18, 9AM - NOON $45 RES; $55 NR 3D Printing: Pokemon Grades 3 to 6 Saturdays, December 2 & 9, 8-10AM $75 RES; $85 NR

3D Printing: Jewelry Design & Fabrication Grades 2 to 6 Saturday, December 16, 9AM – NOON $60 RES; $70 NR

Video Production: YouTube Shorts & Instagram Reels Grades 2 to 6 Saturdays, December 2 & 9, 10:30AM – NOON $60 RES; $70 NR

Multiplayer Minecraft: Master Builders Grades 1 to 5 Saturday, December 23, 9AM – NOON $45 RES; $55 NR

For complete class descriptions and to register, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Skyhawk Sports Camps Ages 2 to 10

Stay Connected BlaineParks.com More information about Parks and Recreation is available at 763-785-6164 or in the current Recreation Connection online.

BlaineEvents.com

The progression of camps and programs, led by expert staff, are geared toward youth looking for a sport introduction or those who want to refine and master their sport specific skills. Basketball Blue Heron Elementary, $85 Saturdays, November 11 - December 9 Ages 6 to 7: 10:20-11:20am Ages 8 to 10: 11:30am-12:30pm SuperTots Basketball Blue Heron Elementary, $69 Saturdays, November 11 - December 9 Ages 2 to 3: 9-9:30am Ages 3 to 5: 9:40-10:10am

Volleyball Blue Heron Elementary, $85 Saturdays, November 11 - December 9 Ages 7 to 9: 1:50-2:50pm Mini Spikers Volleyball Blue Heron Elementary, $85 Saturdays, November 11 - December 9 Ages 4 to 6: 12:40-1:40pm

For complete details including descriptions, fees, dates, times, and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

November/December 2023

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RecConnect Skating Rink Hours and Locations

Fall 2023

Warming Houses Tentatively Scheduled to Open Friday, December 22 Outdoor Lighted Rinks with Staffed Warming Houses Aurelia Park............................................................... Hockey/General Rink.................... 91st Avenue at Jefferson Street Happy Acres Park................................................... 3 Hockey/General Rink ...................... 119th Avenue and 7th Street Lexington Athletic Complex.............................. Hockey Rink.................................................................. 4286 121st Avenue Ostmans Park........................................................... Hockey/General Rink........... 130th Avenue and Buchanan Street Quail Creek Park (Unsupervised).................... General Rink................................................. 2206 Quail Creek Parkway

Warming House Hours Aurelia, Ostmans, Happy Acres, and Lexington Athletic Complex Monday - Friday..............................................................................................................................................................................4-9pm Saturday..........................................................................................................................................................................................12-9pm Sunday..............................................................................................................................................................................................12-7pm School Vacation Days................................................................................................................................................................12-9pm Christmas Eve (Closed Christmas Day).............................................................................................................................12-5pm New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.......................................................................................................................................... 12-8pm

Outdoor Lighted Rink without Warming Houses or Staff Quincy Park............................................................... Small Hockey/General Rink..................................10601 Quincy Blvd Thursday and Friday.....................................................................................................................................................................4-9pm Saturday and Sunday................................................................................................................................................................12-7pm

Outdoor Unlighted Rinks without Warming Houses or Staff Austin Park.................................................................................................................................................................... 4041 85th Lane Carrara East Park.........................................................................................................................................13129 Eldorado Street Deacon’s Park.......................................................................................................................................11200 Arnold Palmer Drive Ivy Hills Park....................................................................................................................................................... 12197 Fergus Street Xylite Park................................................................................................................................................................ 9033 Xylite Street Tentative opening of the skating rinks is Friday, December 22. For up to date information about skating rinks, visit BlaineParks.com/SkatingRinks.

Breakfast with Santa Ages 10 & under w/parent/adult Spend a morning with your family at the North Pole. Don’t miss out on this memorable event. Fee includes a continental breakfast for one child and one adult, crafts for one child, and a visit with Santa. Registration required. Held at Blaine City Hall. Session 1 (ages 10 & under): Saturday, December 9, 9am, 10am, 11am Session 2 (ages 10 & under): Saturday, December 16, 9am, 10am 11am $20 res; $21 nr

Zumba at QC Dance This specialty course is designed for those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle or the older active adult. Zumba fitness is for everyone. The fun comes first, and the physical benefits follow! Session 2: Wednesdays, November 15 - December 13 8-8:45pm $40 res, $45 nr For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Adult Co-Rec Volleyball League Games Held at Roosevel Middle School Non-officiated co-rec volleyball league. There will be one scheduled practice and eight games plus single elimination playoffs. Players must be at least 18 years old. Game times vary in the evening. Wednesdays, January 10 - Late March 6:30-9:30pm $250/team For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Sensitive Santa A sensory friendly opportunity for an important, valued, and unique family experience. Enjoy the holiday in a quiet and welcoming environment free of triggers such as lighting, sounds, and uncomfortable social interactions. The noon time slots are exclusively for a sensory friendly environment. Session 3 (sensitive Santa up to age 16): Saturdays, December 9 or 16, noon $20 res; $21 nr

Stay Connected BlaineParks.com More information about Parks and Recreation is available at 763-785-6164 or in the current Recreation Connection online.

BlaineEvents.com

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BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect NG DAY

Rick Fanning Practice Facility

THANKSGIVI

A Tribute to Dedication and Passion for Baseball in Blaine

HARVEST

HUSTLE

On September 14, the Rick Fanning Practice Facility was dedicated at Jim Peterson Park. The new name is a testament to the dedication and passion of Rick Fanning, a former board member and president of the Blaine Area Traveling Baseball Association. During Rick’s time on the board, he worked tirelessly to make Blaine’s fields and complexes better. Rick was always in contact with Blaine’s Parks and Recreation department about how both groups could work together to improve the fields and amenities at the parks. Between the City and the baseball organizations, projects were completed by pooling their resources together. There was significant volunteer time donated by the Blaine Area Traveling Baseball Association and Rick was the leader of the group. Rick would spend nights and weekends at the parks improving fields, building batting cages, re-building mounds, organizing sheds, and going through baseball equipment. He was a huge contributor to the BATBA tournaments and practically lived at the fields for tournament weekends along with his children.

IES | BLAINE,

TPC TWIN CIT

Join Us for a 5K Walk/Run Around TPC Twin Cities Golf Course

Thursday, November 23 To register, scan the QR code or visit BlaineMN.gov/ Register.

Some of Rick’s work can be seen at Cloverleaf Park, Lexington Athletic Complex, Blaine Baseball Complex, and Jim Peterson Park. Rick helped construct the new batting cages, hitting stations, and multiple pitching mounds at Jim Peterson Park. It is a state-of-the-art training facility for baseball players and coaches. In unveiling the Rick Fanning Practice Facility, the City of Blaine honors not only a dedicated baseball enthusiast but also the power of community collaboration and the lasting impact it can have on the lives of residents. As baseball numbers continue to rise in Blaine, it is clear that Rick Fanning’s legacy will continue to inspire and enrich the lives of future generations of baseball players and fans.

Winter Celebration Tom Ryan Park

Thousands Enjoy Blaine Fall Community Events In September people from Blaine and all over the metro area come together to celebrate Blaine WorldFest. This event is designed to highlight and embrace Blaine’s growing diversity through dance performances, vendor booths, and educational stations. On a chilly October day the community came out for the second annual Blaine Oktoberfest. With live music all day people were dancing in the streets and having a great time. Food trucks, a petting zoo, and a huge craft fair rounded out the event. We hope that you join us for both of these events next fall. View more pictures at BlaineMN.gov/Flickr.

Sunday, November 26 4-6:30pm Enjoy live holiday music, bonfires with s’mores, live reindeer, a tree lighting ceremony, and a winter wonderland walk. Santa and his reindeer will be at the event, but Santa will not be available for individual visits or photographs.

Live Music with Crooner Christmas 4-6pm Sign up for the kids shopping event! Personal shoppers will help your child pick out the perfect gift. Gifts range from $1-$15. Gift wrapping is included. Registration required for a 15 minute kids shopping time slot starting at 4pm until 6pm. No shopping walk-ins accepted. For more information, visit

BlaineMN.gov/ WinterCelebration