Blaine CityConnect - January/February 2024

BlaineMN.gov

CityConnect January/February 2024

What’s Inside

Department Spotlight: Finance Department..............................................3

2024 Budget and Levy Approval............................................................4

Local Heroes Make Kids Smile 14th Annual Heroes and Helpers Event Serves Local Families The winter holiday season is not always filled with joy and happiness for everyone. Each December the Blaine Police Department partners with local schools to take children who could use a little extra cheer on a holiday shopping spree at Target. The kids come with a list and are able to buy presents for their entire family. Many kids also come with lists of household necessities, those are taken care of as well thanks to the generous event sponsors.

Blaine Community Gardens Now Taking Plot Reservations...........................8

This year 60 children were selected to participate. The heroes pick up the kids from school, shop with them at Target, wrap the presents together, and then bring the kids home. This great community outreach event puts a smile on the faces of everyone involved.

View nearly 225 photos from the event at BlaineMN.gov/HHPhotos2023.

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID ADVANCED MAIL

2024 Election Calendar Presidential Primary Election in March

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

There will be three election days in 2024 and each election will also include in person absentee balloting starting 46 days before the election.

March 5 - Presidential Nomination Primary Major political parties will participate in a nominating primary for the presidential election. Early voting will open on January 19.

May/June - Filing for Office Candidate filing for Blaine elections will be open from May 21 - June 4. In Blaine there will be one City Council seat up for election in each Council ward. The Mayor seat will also be up for election in 2024.

August 13 - Primary Election The primary election is used to narrow the list of candidates to the top two candidates in non-partisan races and the top candidate for each party in partisan elections. Early voting for the primary election will open on June 28. All Blaine polling places will be open for voting on Election Day. November 5 - General Election The general election will determine the winner in each race. Early voting for the general election will open on September 20. All Blaine polling places will be open for voting on Election Day. Learn more about elections in Blaine at, BlaineMN.gov/Elections. If you have questions please email Elections@BlaineMN.gov or call 763-717-2737.

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BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Upcoming Meetings

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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

January 3 | January 8 | January 17 February 5 | February 12 | February 21 5:30pm | Cloverleaf Farms Room

Natural Resources Conservation Board* January 16 | February 20 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Park Board*

Planning Commission* January 9 | February 13 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Traffic Commission* March 5 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

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Tree Collection

City Council

City Council Workshops

January 23 | February 27 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

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January 3 | January 17 February 5 | February 21 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

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

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

*Meetings can be seen on cable channel 16 and 799. Meeting agendas and live and on demand videos are available at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas.

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

January/February 2024

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Keep Your Ride Safe Tips to Prevent Warm-Up Vehicle Thefts As temperatures drop and winter is in full swing, many of us rely on warming up our vehicles before hitting the road. However, this convenience comes with a risk. Warm-up vehicle thefts are on the rise, with opportunistic thieves targeting unattended, running cars left in driveways or parking lots.

Last winter (November 1, 2022 – April 30, 2023) the Blaine Police Department received reports of 30 vehicles stolen and of those, 13 of them were left running and/or unlocked with the keys inside. Warm-up thefts made up 43 percent of all vehicle thefts.

Here are some tips to help you keep your ride safe this winter: •

Never leave your vehicle unattended while it’s running. Even if you’re just stepping inside for a moment, a running car is an open invitation for thieves. Even if you take your key fob with you, if the vehicle is left running, someone can hop in and drive it away. Invest in a remote starter to warm up your car without leaving the keys in the ignition.

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Consider installing a steering wheel lock or a kill switch to add an extra layer of security. These simple devices can deter thieves and make it much more difficult for them to drive away with your vehicle.

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Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Thieves often look for easy targets, so if you see any suspicious activity, report it immediately. Additionally, park in well-lit areas and use your garage, if possible, to further reduce the risk of theft.

By taking these preventive measures, you can enjoy the warmth of your vehicle without worrying about it becoming a target for thieves. Stay safe and keep your winter drives worry free.

Contact CommunityOutreach@BlaineMN.gov or 763-717-2692 with questions.

Please Keep Fire Hydrants Clear Residents and business owners are asked to please remember to shovel out around fire hydrants after each snowfall. It is very important to keep hydrants clear of snow and visible from the street.

If the fire department has to spend time trying to find and dig out a fire hydrant under the snow, they lose precious time needed to fight fires.

A fire can double in size every 30 seconds. If it takes firefighters even two extra minutes to locate and dig out a hydrant, the damage to a home could be massive. Please talk with your neighbors to determine who will keep the hydrant clear. Remember, the house you help save may be your own.

City of Blaine Finance Department

Department Spotlight Finance Department The City of Blaine’s Finance Department is not exactly the most well known department in town, but their work is critical to keeping Blaine running smoothly and efficiently. These financial professionals behind the scenes handle everything from budgeting to accounting to payroll to utility billing to investments and more. All while ensuring that tax dollars are used wisely and effectively.

The Finance Department directs the City’s financial affairs following accepted accounting rules. This department manages money-related tasks like making financial plans, ensuring internal controls, protecting assets, and handling financial transactions. Blaine is one of only a handful of cities to receive a AAA credit rating. This is the highest rating given to government agencies and shows that independent evaluators have determined the City of Blaine to have a strong and stable financial outlook.

The Finance Department also leads the annual budgeting process with the City Council and city manager.

You can learn more about the recently approved 2024 budget on page four.

If you want to learn more, you can check out the Finance Department website at BlaineMN.gov/Finance.

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

Summer Jobs Ages 16 and up If you are looking for a seasonal, part time job this summer, we have opportunities for you. The City of Blaine is looking for enthusiastic, energetic candidates to work in our Parks and Recreation and Public Works Departments. Blaine seasonal employees: • • • • •

Learn lifelong skills Make new friends Work outdoors Earn competitive wages Get excellent hands-on training

The application deadline for park and recreation positions is March 30; interviews will take place in April.

Job postings will be available in early 2024 at BlaineMN.gov/Jobs.

Summer Job Fair Visit the 2024 City of Blaine Summer Job Fair. Potential applicants may apply or obtain more information about the City’s great seasonal employment opportunities. These inperson events will take place in the Blaine City Hall atrium.

Tuesday, March 5, 4-6:30PM Saturday, March 9, 11AM-2PM

Parks and Recreations Jobs must be 16 years and older •

Work with kids

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Opportunities include the Playnet Program, Youth Sport Coaches, and Park Attendants

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No weekends

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Approximately June 1 - August 15 (depending on position) For more information and to apply, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineMN.gov/Jobs.

Public Works Jobs must be 17 years and older

2024 City Budget and Levy Approved Tax Rate is Second Lowest in Last Decade On Monday, December 18, the Blaine City Council unanimously adopted the 2024 budget and tax levy. The development of the city budget is a year round process. It starts with an evaluation of the current budget and the strategic priorities of the City. The City Council provides staff direction early in the year to guide the budget development process. A preliminary levy and budget are adopted in September. At that point the levy can not be raised it can only be lowered. This year the tax levy was lowered 3.54 percent from the preliminary levy. The City budget funds all the core services residents and business owners expect. This includes police, fire, public works, parks and trails, economic development, recreation events and programs, and more. The median valued home in Blaine is $327,400. The owner of that home will see a tax increase of about $7 per month for the city portion of their tax bill. Blaine receives no local government aid, local option sales tax revenue, or utility or liquor franchise fees that other cities use to offset the property tax levy. This small property tax increase will allow the City to continue to provide all the core services residents expect while adding two additional police officers and investing in community wide infrastructure improvements.

With this tax levy in place, Blaine continues to be one of the lowest taxed cities of its size in Minnesota.

Take the Polar Plunge in Blaine Support Special Olympics MN The Anoka County Polar Plunge is coming to Blaine for the first time ever in 2024.

Jump into the icy cold waters at Lakeside Commons Park on Saturday, February 24.

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 join in the fun.

We have a goal of raising $155,000 to support Special Olympics Minnesota. You can join a team, start your own team, sign up to volunteer, donate to a plunger, or just show up to support those taking the plunge.

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.

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Consistent hours, Monday - Friday, 7AM-3PM

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Opportunities in Parks, Streets, Water, Sewer/Storm, and Mechanics Divisions

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Must have a valid/clear driver’s license

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No evenings, weekends, or holidays

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Three approximate start options: • mid-April (retirees) • mid-May (college students) • mid-June (high school students)

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For more information and to apply, call 763-717-2664 or visit BlaineMN.gov/Jobs.

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.

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

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

January/February 2024

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Water Service Line Inventory Survey Blaine is taking action to keep our community safe by working to reduce lead exposure in the water system.

The US Environmental Protection Agency requires municipalities to conduct an inventory of residential water service lines with the goal of reducing lead in the water system.

What is a service line?

The service line connects the watermain to the property. The property owner owns the part of the pipe that connects the home to the water shut-off valve, also known as a curb stop.

Why is lead a problem?

Lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to lead. A dose of lead that would have little effect on an adult can have a significant effect on a child.

How does lead get into drinking water?

Lead can enter drinking water when pipes and plumbing fixtures that contain lead corrode, especially where the water has high acidity or low mineral contact.

Complete the Water Service Line Inventory Survey Blaine residents are asked to complete the water service line survey by visiting BlaineMN.gov/ WaterServiceLineSurvey or by scanning the QR Code.

The survey will ask for contact information, pipe information, and a photo of the service line where it meets the water meter. The meter is usually found in the basement utility room, crawl space, or near an exterior tap. Please complete the survey as soon as possible.

For more information or questions, please contact the Public Works Department at 763-785-6165 or visit BlaineMN.gov/WaterServiceLineInventory.

Stormwater Pond Winter Safety Not Safe for Recreation Almost all the bodies of water in Blaine are stormwater ponds. These ponds are constructed and designed to treat stormwater runoff and provide flood storage. The City of Blaine has over 700 stormwater ponds and infiltration basins that have been designed to remove pollutants from runoff. These ponds are not designed for recreation. There is a constant flow of water in and out of the stormwater ponds, even in the winter. This flow of water makes them unsafe for winter recreation such as ice skating. For your safety and the integrity of the stormwater pond system, the City strongly encourages you not to use stormwater ponds for recreation this winter. The City has several outdoor ice rinks for recreation. See page eight for more information about ice rinks.

For more information about stormwater ponds within the City of Blaine, visit the stormwater information portal at BlaineMN.gov/StormwaterPonds.

Smart Salting, Cleaner Water

Blaine Recycling Saturdays 8am — noon 3rd Saturday of Each Month (No Event in January) 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 Randy’s offers free paper shredding. Please note, there may be long wait times for shredding. Four box or bag limit for paper shredding.

Protect Local Bodies of Water by Using Less Salt Most salt products are not the best way to deal with icy areas around your home. Salt can corrode your vehicle, cause concrete damage, and run off into lakes, ponds, and creeks.

Here are ways for you to have safe walking areas while reducing salt/chloride pollution.

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Remove snow during a snowstorm instead of waiting until the end

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Think anti-icing. The goal is to break the bond between ice and pavement just where you need it so it can be shoveled or plowed, as opposed to melting everything.

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Treat before a storm to help prevent ice buildup so less ice melting product is needed.

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Use sand for traction. Sand is the safest for pets and children. The pet-safe products usually have urea in them which adds nutrient pollution and can cause spring algae blooms.

Information provided by the Coon Creek Watershed District.

Learn more at, CoonCreekWD.org or 763-755-0975.

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

Ice Fishing 101

Ages 5 & up (participants between ages 5 and 9 need a parent/guardian present) Two new ice fishing class options are available this winter. Through hands-on teaching, you will learn to use an ice auger, an ice fishing rod and reel, and other ice fishing equipment. This class will walk you through drilling your own hole to fish, the basics of ice fishing, and how to use live and artificial baits. The class will also teach you about staying safe on the ice while ice fishing and talk about conservation. The participation fee includes a new rod and reel to use in the class, which you will keep and take home. Participants will also be provided with artificial and live bait.

RecConnect

Option 1 Saturday, January 20 Lakeside Commons Park Boathouse noon-5pm, $169

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Winter/Spring 2024 Winter/Spring 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.

Option 2 Thursday, January 25 Blaine City Hall 5-7:30pm

For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Thursday, February 1 Lakeside Commons Park Boathouse 5-7:30pm, $162

Tech Academy All Classes are Virtual

Home Technical Requirements for All Classes

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Computer: PC (Windows 7 or later) or Mac (OSX) with at least a 2GHz processor and 4GB of RAM Chromebooks, tablets, and phones typically do not work.

Internet: Broadband internet Webcam Microphone and speakers Zoom installed on computers

Classes include Multiplayer Minecraft: World Builder; 3D Printing: Harry Potter; Minecraft Mod Dev: Portals; Video Production: Special Effects; Intro to Video Game Design with Nintendo Characters; Dungeons & Dragons 101: with Character Creation; Intro to 3D Printing, and more.

For dates, times, fees, other details, and to register, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Curling Opportunities Youth Curling, ages 8 and 18

Cookie Decorating all ages You and your child will have a great time decorating cookies for the spring season. The City will supply one dozen cookies and all the toppings. Bring a container to take your cookies home. Dress for the mess. Max. 20 per session. Held at Blaine City Hall Atrium.

Thursday, March 21 Session 1: 5-5:45pm Session 2: 6-6:45pm Session 3: 7-7:45pm (any age) $15 res; $16 nr

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

This program is a great opportunity for youth to learn the sport of curling. During the seven sessions, youth will learn how to slide, throw the stone, sweep the stone, and the rules of the game. Beginner and intermediate instruction is provided, so this program is a great place to try curling for the first time. Curling equipment is provided, but please wear comfortable clothes and socks that are warm enough for 45-degree air temp, consider thin gloves, and bring a clean pair of athletic shoes, not worn from the parking lot into the building. Program held at Four Seasons Curling Club at Fogerty Arena. Please use the Curling Club entrance on the south side of the building. Register by January 7. Max 10.

Sundays, January 14, 21, 28; February 11, 18; March 3, 17 1-3pm, $84 child

Learn to Curl, ages 12 and up (participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by parent or guardian) A Learn to Curl clinic is a great way for anyone, age 12 to adult, to get their first exposure to the sport. Each lesson is a two hour introduction and instructional session that teaches the basics of curling. Participants learn physical play, rules, and strategy. We strive for a low instructor-to-student ratio with an emphasis on active participation. You finish off the session by playing a mini-game. Learn To Curl sessions are also a great way for small groups to enjoy a new activity at a great price, and guests can all curl together as a group. Please have clean athletic shoes with rubber soles not worn from the parking lot into the building and warm clothing. Max. 24 per session. Program held at Four Seasons Curling Club at Fogerty Arena. Please use the Curling Club entrance on the south side of the building.

Session 1: Sunday, January 7, 10am-noon Session 2: Friday, February 9, 6:30-8:30pm Session 3: Saturday, March 30, 10am-noon $40/person/session For complete details including descriptions, ages, fees, dates, times, and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Skyhawk Sports Camps Ages 2 to 10 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. Skyhawks Sports has proven to be the leader in youth sports since 1979. Skyhawks goes the extra mile to focus on safety and has a long standing proven safety track record.

These sports will be offered this winter/spring Basketball; Hoopster Tots; Volleyball; and VolleyKats.

BlaineEvents.com

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

Winter/Spring 2024

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QC Dance Classes Offered for Ages 0 to 11 QC Dance strives to provide quality dance instruction and a variety of fun opportunities to learn and demonstrate dance skills while building self-esteem. Mommy and Me; Kidlets: Intro to Dance; Kidance: Intro to Dance; Dancing Kids; Dancing Tweens; Ninja Acro Camp; Frozen Friends Adventure, and much more.

For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Snowshoeing Ages 6 and up Winter is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy nature’s wonders. Snowshoes are a great, low impact, way to get off trail and explore. After just a few minutes of instruction, participants will be led out onto the snow pack and learn how easy and fun snowshoeing is. This program is well suited for families. This class will be instructed by Anoka County and held at Lochness Park. Max 15.

Thursdays, January 18, 6-8pm or Sunday, February 18, 1-3pm $10/person/class

RecConnect

Winter/Spring 2024

For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Cross Country Skiing Ages 10 and up Cross-country skiing is great exercise and a fun way to get outdoors in the winter. What better place to learn than at the beautiful Bunker Hills Regional Park. This introductory class is appropriate for people of all abilities. The activity fee includes ski/boot/pole rental, instruction, and ski pass fees for Anoka County. No experience necessary. Class instructed by Anoka County and held at Bunker Hills Regional Park Campground Visitor Center. Max 10.

Wednesday, January 31, 6-8pm or Saturday, February 24, 1-3pm $15/person/class For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Bunny Opportunities in Blaine Families with children ages 10 & under

Zumba at QC Dance

Meet the Bunny

Love to dance? Join the party! 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, all shapes and sizes and just about any age. This class allows you to have fun while safely losing pounds and inches. With Zumba, the fun comes first, and the physical benefits follow. The class will be a fat burning, body shaping, fun workout.

Class held at QC Dance Studio. Max 14.

Session 1: Wednesdays, February 7-28 Session 2: Wednesdays, March 20 - April 10 8-8:45pm $40 res, $45 nr

Enjoy roasting a peep over a bonfire, craft time, an egg hunt, and pictures with the bunny. Do not miss this memorable event. Fee includes two crafts, a peep s’more, five eggs from the hunt, and time with the bunny.

Held at Tom Ryan Park. Max 60.

Saturday, March 16, noon $20 res; $21 nr

For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Tai Chi at Sunnyside Park Building Are you new to fitness or are you looking for a low-impact form of exercise? Then Tai Chi may be a good fit for you. Tai Chi, often known as meditation in motion, was originally developed for self-defense but has since evolved into a rhythmic form of exercise. Relieving stress, improving cognition, flexibility, and balance, and improving strength are just a few of the benefits you can gain from Tai Chi. This program will emphasize the health benefits and mindfulness aspects of Tai Chi. No prior experience is necessary. You will enjoy a moving meditation in the form of a series of gentle exercises that create harmony between the mind and body. Max 10.

Breakfast with the Bunny Enjoy a continental breakfast, craft time, and pictures with the bunny.

Do not miss out on this memorable event. The fee includes a continental breakfast for one child and one adult, two crafts for one child, and pictures with the bunny. Registration is required and limited to 25 children per time slot. Event held in the Blaine City Hall Atrium.

Saturday, March 23, 9am, 10am, 11am Sensitive Bunny Only, noon $20 res; $21 nr

Tuesdays & Thursdays, February 6-28, 6-7pm, $80 res, $90 nr For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Adult Softball Leagues League Play Begins the Week of April 22

Stay Connected BlaineParks.com

The City of Blaine offers softball leagues for men’s, women’s, and co-rec teams. Games played at Aquatore Park. Fee includes softballs and tax. Registration materials are available after January 1 and registration begins February 5.

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

Men’s Monday D DH - $975/team Men’s Wednesday D DH - $975/team Co-Rec – Tuesday, DH - $925/team Women’s – Thursday D, DH - $975/team Women’s – Thursday D - $650/team

BlaineEvents.com

For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

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BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Snow Day Saturday, January 27, 1-4PM, FREE All Ages Welcome Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main Street, Lino Lakes

Blaine Community Gardens Now Taking Applications for 2024 Plots The Blaine Community Garden is located adjacent to Blaine City Hall’s south parking lot and consists of 59 plots. Plots are approximately 15 x 20 feet for a full plot; 15 x 10 feet for a half plot; and raised beds are 4 x 8 feet. In 2024 new ADA accessible raised beds will be available. Registrations for a plot is on a priority basis: December 5 – February 10 2023 returning gardeners requesting the same plot.

February 13-17 2023 returning gardeners requesting a different plot.

February 20 until full New non-resident gardeners.

The Anoka County Parks, in collaboration with the Blaine Parks and Recreation Department, is thrilled to be offering the annual Snow Day at Wargo Nature Center.

Participants of all ages will have a chance to enjoy a variety of winter activities including snowshoeing, ice fishing, kick-sledding, fat tire biking, winter crafts, temporary tattoos, and a live animal presentation.

Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, call Wargo Nature Center at 651-429-8007.

For more information or to reserve a garden plot, please call 763-785-6164.

Skating Rink Hours and Locations Warming Houses and Rinks Open Weather Permitting 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 Ice rinks will be open as weather conditions allow.

For up to date information about skating rinks, visit BlaineParks.com/SkatingRinks.

Craft Fair Saturday, March 9 10am-4pm Blaine City Hall For more information or to sign up to be a vendor, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineMN.gov/CraftFair.