Blaine CityConnect - March/April 2024 by City of Blaine

BlaineMN.gov

CityConnect March/April 2024

What’s Inside

Department Spotlight: Communications Department...........................3

Blaine City Council Awards Grants to Non-Profits.............................................5

We Need You! Election Judges Needed Did you know that it takes nearly 300 election judges to run an election in Blaine? Election judges operate Blaine’s 26 polling places and also help administer early voting at Blaine City Hall. Serving as an election judge is an excellent way to get involved in the community and election judges are essential to our democracy. As an election judge, you will learn election protocols and help ensure that all election procedures are followed. Election judges are paid, and all training is provided. Learn more and apply to be an election judge at BlaineMN.gov/ElectionJudge.

Annual Arbor Day Tree Sale Opens Monday, April 1, 9AM...............................8

Presidential Primary Election - March 5 All Blaine polling places will be open from 7AM-8PM on Tuesday, March 5 for the presidential primary election. In person absentee voting is available at Blaine City Hall prior to the election. Find your polling place at BlaineMN.gov/Elections or MNVotes.org.

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID ADVANCED MAIL

Water Service Line Inventory Survey

City of Blaine 10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine MN 55449

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. POSTMASTER: TIME SENSITIVE MAIL

DATED MATERIAL PREPARED BY THE COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION

ECRWSS

POSTAL CUSTOMER

Complete the Online Survey

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.

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BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Upcoming Meetings

Recycling Calendar March s

City Council* t

31 31 s

April t

Planning Commission*

March 12 | April 9 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Holiday

Communications@BlaineMN.gov

WARD 1 Tom Newland 651-271-3341 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 651-271-1153 CMassoglia@BlaineMN.gov

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

March 19 | April 16 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Park Board* March 26 | April 23 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

May

Tim Sanders 763-203-3286 TSanders@BlaineMN.gov

Natural Resources Conservation Board*

10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449

MAYOR

Blaine City Hall

City Council

City Council Workshops

31 s

763-784-6700

March 4 | March 18 April 1 | April 15 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Zone A

Zone B

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

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

Traffic Commission* June 4 | September 3 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers *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 ..................... 763-785-6146 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.......................................... 763-270-3001

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

March/April 2024

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Blaine Police Community Alliance A New Department Initiative to Enhance Community Relations Blaine Police Chief, Brian Podany, has implemented a new department initiative for enhancing community relations with the establishment of the Blaine Police Community Alliance. The Blaine Police Community Alliance is a collaborative group made up of leaders from our diverse community and police personnel. This partnership is characterized by open dialogue and communication, where members are encouraged to voice their concerns, ideas, and feedback. It is built on the principles of community partnership and inclusivity and was created to enhance public safety and foster mutual trust. Alliance members will collectively work to develop and implement programs and initiatives that address the root causes of crime and social issues. By working together, the Alliance not only enhances public safety but also promotes understanding, trust, and a shared vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and just community.

Summer Jobs Ages 16 and up

The Blaine Police Community Alliance will meet monthly on the second Tuesday of each month from 7:30 to 8:30AM at Blaine City Hall, to: • • • •

Discuss topics of interest Listen to and learn from each other and experts Address community concerns Provide feedback and ideas

• •

Build partnerships Act as a liaison to the community to build and maintain lasting relationships and networks

The Blaine Police Department is currently seeking alliance members. Ideal candidates reside or work in the City of Blaine, are accepting of people from different backgrounds and faith perspectives, and are comfortable providing input focused on positive community relations. To find out more or to complete an application online, visit BlaineMN.gov/BPCA or contact CommunityOutreach@BlaineMN.gov or 763-717-2692 with questions.

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 are available online 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

City of Blaine Communications Department Tom Clements, Heidi Andrea, and Ben Hayle

Department Spotlight Communications Department The City of Blaine communications team brings over 37 years of local government experience to the Blaine community. This team is responsible for helping residents, businesses, and visitors engage with the City. The Blaine communications team works hard to build and maintain trust between the community and city government. By communicating with residents in a variety of ways the communications team works to engage with all community members. This is the team that is behind all the Blaine social media channels across six different social media platforms. This team manages the City website which receives over five million page hits per year. The communications team also produces all the print publications for the City including the CityConnect newsletter, RecConnect parks and recreation program guide, and many more. The communications team handles all media relations for the City and works to have Blaine shine in the local, regional, and national media. Members of the communications team are also trained in crisis communications and work alongside the emergency management team to respond to any emergency situations in the City. The communications team in Blaine is always working to enhance and improve the way that the City communicates with the community. Be sure to connect with the City on Facebook, Instagram, X, Nextdoor, LinkedIn, and YouTube and sign up to receive information on specific topics at BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe. If you want to learn more, you can check out the Communications Department website at BlaineMN.gov/Communications.

•

Hourly pay $15/hour

•

Work with kids

•

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

•

No weekends

•

Approximately June 1 - August 15 (depending on position)

Public Works Jobs must be 17 years and older •

Hourly pay $16-$19/hour

•

No evenings, weekends, or holidays

•

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

•

Must have a valid/clear driver’s license

•

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

•

Three approximate start options: • mid-April (retirees) • mid-May (college students) • mid-June (high school students) For more information and to apply, visit BlaineMN.gov/Jobs.

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BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Improve Your Home With Help from the City of Blaine The City of Blaine offers a variety of home improvement programs including grants and low interest loans to help you make your dream home a reality.

Make Curb Appeal Improvements with the Front Door Grant

Fire Extinguisher Training Have you ever used a fire extinguisher? You have likely seen information on how to use them and what to do in the event of a fire, but maybe you’ve never had the chance to pull the pin and spray the extinguisher. With SBM’s new state of the art fire extinguisher prop, now is your chance to learn how they work and get hands-on experience! This is a fun, free class held monthly at 7PM. The next class will be held on March 20 at SBM Station 2. Class sizes are limited, call Chief Lundquist today at 763-767-4012 to reserve your spot.

Have a Backflow Device? Get it Tested. If you have a lawn irrigation system or boiler heat system, it is likely that you have a backflow prevention device to prevent any backflow contamination from entering the City water system. The State of Minnesota requires these devices to be test annually by a certified professional. The City of Blaine tracks testing of devices installed in commercial buildings and the testing of devices in new homes when initially installed. Residential property owners with these devices are responsible for the annual testing. If you have questions, please contact the Building Inspections Department at 763-785-6177.

The City of Blaine is offering grants of up to $5,000 to help you make beautification improvements to your home. The program covers up to 25 percent of project cost on items like new front doors, permanent landscaping, adding brick or stone to the front of your home, and more! Maintenance type projects, like new windows, siding, driveways, and gutters can also be a part of an eligible project. Eligible projects must include at least $1,000 in beautification elements and have a total project cost of $4,000. Questions? Contact Elizabeth Showalter at 763-717-2751 or EShowalter@BlaineMN.gov. Learn more and apply today at BlaineMN.gov/FrontDoor. Work completed prior to signing a grant agreement with the City is not eligible. Homes must be at least 30 years old, have an assessed value of $400,000 or less, and homes must be owner occupied. Full program terms available at the website above. Applications reviewed on the first of each month February-October.

Need Help Planning Your Project? Receive expert advice, free of charge, for any project - from a simple renovation to a dream remodel, remodeling advisor visits from the Center for Energy and Environment can help sort out the possibilities when it comes to your next project. Services include: • • • • • •

Help to identify home improvements and repairs Information on construction, building codes, and permits Site visits to help prioritize home improvements A written scope of work for contractors to bid from Assistance reviewing contractor bids, proposals, and estimates Assistance during the construction process Call 612-244-2470 for more information.

Lending Options Are you ready to tackle a home improvement project? From replacing windows or siding to a kitchen remodel, Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) and the City of Blaine are here to help. Blaine’s partnership with CEE means you can access financing options designed specifically for Blaine residents. When you take out a loan with CEE, you are getting: • • •

Low monthly payments Flexible terms Support from our team of loan officers CEE and the City of Blaine want to help make your home improvement dreams come true. Check out what financing options are available to you at MNCEE.org/blaine and view state-wide loans available to all Minnesotans at MNCEE.org/loans. You can reach out to CEE’s lending team with any questions at 612-335-5884.

March/April 2024

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Senior Safety and Wellness Fair Thursday, May 2, 8:30am-3pm, SBM Fire Station #3, $12 Many dynamic speakers will present on a variety of topics that address safety and wellness. The day starts with a vendor fair that will give participants the opportunity to talk to and collect information from a variety of local vendors who serve the 55+ population. Get your blood pressure taken, get other health and safety screenings, and enjoy an update on the City from city officials. Refreshments will be served throughout the day along with a delicious luncheon. This is a packed full day of information, resources, and fun! Register online at, SBMFire.org or in person at the Mary Ann Young Center. Registration is limited so sign-up early!

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

Blaine City Council Awards Grants to Non-Profits Next time you purchase pull tabs at a Blaine restaurant you are not only supporting the organization selling the pull tabs but a dozen other organizations serving the Blaine community. In Minnesota, state law requires 10 percent of the net proceeds from pull tab sales must be paid to the local City where the pull tabs are sold. Each year, the Blaine City Council uses that revenue to award donations to several Blaine area non-profit organizations. This year, the Blaine City Council was proud to be able to award $212,500 in grants to several different community organizations.

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

Friendly Pet Reminders Please Clean Up After Your Pets Dog owners must carry a plastic bag or some other means of picking up after their dog whenever they are off their own property. Please be a courteous pet owner and clean up after your pet.

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.

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

Dogs Must be Leashed When Out for a Walk Dogs in the City of Blaine must be on a leash and under control while off the owner’s property. If you are looking for an off-leash area, please visit Swanson Dog Park. Learn more at BlaineMN.gov/ SwansonDogPark.

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

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BlaineParks.com or BlaineEvents.com - Recreation Connection

Kids Create Studio Showers Bring Flowers ages 18 months to 6 years April showers may or may not bring May flowers, but this art class will for sure! We will create a spring masterpiece complete with a garden full of flowers and a 3D butterfly. Come and create right along with your child. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Held at Blaine City Hall Atrium.

RecConnect Summer 2024

Summer program registration opens Monday, March 4 at 8AM. Check out all the great program offerings at BlaineParks.com/Register. Sign up for the RecConnect online at BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe, choose News: BlaineParks.

Tuesday, April 16 5:30-6:30pm $23 res; $27 nr

Fairy Garden ages 4 to 9 years I do believe in fairies, I do! We’ll use clay, paint, glitter, and more as we sculpt our very own enchanted fairy gardens. These adorable little fairy retreats will have sparkling streams, colorful flowers, a fairy swing, and more. You don’t want to miss this magical class. Please pack a nut free snack and drink for your child. Held at Blaine City Hall Atrium. Wednesday, April 17 5:30-8:30pm $43 res; $47 nr

Garden Gnome ages 5 to 12 years They’re taking over your gardens, and they couldn’t be cuter! Come explore the art of contour-line drawing while creating an adorable gnome on canvas. Best of all, these cute little guys will be drawn and painted on a real canvas board. Please pack a nut free snack and drink for your child. Held at Blaine City Hall Atrium. Saturday, April 20 10am-noon $30 res; $34 nr For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Tech Academy Virtual and In Person Options

Home Technical Requirements for All Classes

• 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

3D Printing: Jewelry Design & Fabrication grades 3 to 8

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.

Bring your creations to life in this 3D printing class. The ancient craft of jewelry making is brought to the modern world using TinkerCad and 3D printers. Students will learn to build 2D and 3D models on the computer using CAD software. They will design and print a pair of earrings, a ring, or a pendant in this class. Additionally, they will get to bring home two of their 3D creations. Printing and material fees are included. Please bring a drink and snack daily. Max 18. Class held at Blaine City Hall Community Room. Saturdays, March 9 & 16, 9-11am $75 res; $89 nr

Multiplayer Minecraft: City Builder grades 1 to 5 Collaborate with fellow students to construct a city! Students will take home their completed world files at the end of class. Beginners and experienced Minecrafters alike will love this action-packed camp! Saturdays, April 6 & 13, 9-11am $60 res; $72 nr

Virtual Reality Coding grades 3 to 7 Design, develop, and create 3D virtual reality environments and characters to make your own 3D games and other virtual reality for kids projects on the new Metaverse platform, Hatch. Hatch is an incredibly fun and stimulating way to learn STEM. Parents will be send details on how to register for a Hatch VR account. VR programs can be viewed on most mobile phones, and VR systems like Oculus or Google Cardboard. You only need a laptop/ computer to get started. Saturdays, April 5 & 13, 10:30am-12:30pm $60 res; $72 nr

Hacking Java Games grades 4 to 8 Hack into the code of classic games. Students will learn Java coding skills while modifying games. Coding beginners and more experienced students will love this class. This fun class is our staff and students’ favorite coding class. We will be editing text files. No experience is necessary, but familiarity with common tasks using a computer operating system (text-editing and understanding directory structures) and good keyboarding skills are required. Saturday, April 20, 9am-noon $45 res; $50 nr For dates, times, fees, other details, and to register, 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. Sports offered this spring include: VolleyKats, Volleyball, Soccer, Soccer Tots, Baseball, T-Ball, Baseball Tots, Pickleball, Football, and Flag Football Tots.

BlaineEvents.com

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

Summer 2024

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Learn to Curl Ages 12 and up 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 2-hour introduction and instructional session that teaches people the basics of curling. Participants learn physical play, rules, and strategy. We strive for a low instructorto-student ratio with an emphasis on active participation. Within minutes, you are throwing rocks and sweeping. 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. We offer instructional leagues as a follow-up for those that would love to continue to curl! Please have clean shoes to wear on the ice (athletic shoes with rubber soles) and warm clothing (45 degrees at ice level). Held at Four Seasons Curling Club. Max 24. Saturday, March 30 10am-noon $40

RecConnect Summer 2024

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

Tenicity Tennis Tenicity’s Tennis Program is led by former Wimbledon player and United States Tennis Association Award winning coach, Harsh Mankad. The program’s coaches are trained by Harsh to develop strong fundamental tennis skills and to positively develop youth via sports. Check out Tenicity.com to learn more about the program. Please contact Harsh at harsh@tenicity.com with questions.

Match Play Program

Bunny Opportunities in Blaine

This program creates a team setting with onsite coaching and structured feedback to guide each player’s development. Players will gain experience in different match play formats including developing their strokes and strategies in a supportive and encouraging group setting. Held at Centennial Middle School.

Families with children ages 10 & under

Saturdays, April 20 - May 18, 11am-1pm Ages 12 & under (min 8, max 12) Ages 16 & under (min 8, max 12) $208 (all 5 match plays)

Meet the Bunny

Youth Beginner and Intermediate Group Tennis Lessons Each lesson will have a plan and progressively build the fundamental athletic skills, stroke play technique, and understanding of the game’s structure. The program’s development path will guide the group’s training and the coaching methods will strive to positively develop youth via sports. We invite you to visit the our website to learn about our unique player development program an the benefits that participants will gain from our coaching. Held at Jim Peterson Athletic Complex. Mondays & Wednesdays, April 22 - May 22 Ages 5 to 7, 5-6pm (min 6, max 12) Ages 8 to 10, 5-6pm (min 6, max 12) Ages 8 to 10, 6-7pm (min 6, max 12) Ages 11 to 17, 6-7pm (min 6, max 12) $158 (10 lessons)

Junior Tennis Training Camps The training camps will provide players with an immersive training experience to develop their game. Players will make new friends and be part of a positive group training environment. Players are requested to bring a snack. These training camps are suitable for players at all skill levels. Players will be assessed and placed within a group at their age range and skill level. Held at Centennial High School. Sundays, April 21 - May 19, 2- 6:30pm Ages 5 to 10 (min 8, max 12) Ages 11 to 17 (min 8, max 12) $389 (all 5 training camps)

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

Adult Softball Leagues League Play Begins the Week of April 22 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 is now open.. 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 For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

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-2pm $20 res; $21 nr

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

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

Spring Fling Craft Fair March 9 10am-4pm Blaine City Hall Come ready to shop for gifts or for some new home decor. Local craft vendors will fill Blaine City Hall with a great selection of quality items. For more information or to become a vendor, visit BlaineMN.gov/ CraftFair or contact Joy Handt at 763-717-2724 or email JHandt@BlaineMN.gov.

Annual Arbor Day Tree Sale Purchase Trees Online Beginning Monday, April 1, 9am

The City of Blaine needs your help to find caring homes for these vegetative vagabonds. Plant carefully, water occasionally, and groom (trim) once in a while and you will get a great addition to your home. Benefits of Adding a New Tree • • • • •

Produces about 260 pounds of oxygen each year. Cleans 360 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere per year. Provides food and habitat for wildlife. Increases the value of your property. Provides you with cool shade and fresh air.

How to Order a Tree • Order online at BlaineMN.gov/ArborDayTreeSale or scan the QR Code. • For quicker access on sale day, establish a CivicRec account at BlaineMN.gov/Register. Pickup Information Trees can be picked up at Blaine Public Works, 1801 101st Avenue NE. Choose your pick up time from the following options: Friday, May 3 8-9AM 9-10AM

10-11AM 11AM-NOON

Saturday, May 4 NOON-1PM 1-2PM

9AM-1PM

Types of Trees • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

River Birch...........................................................................................................................................................$43 Paper Birch.........................................................................................................................................................$43 Japanese Tree Lilac............................................................................................................................................$44 Haralson Apple...................................................................................................................................................$32 Honeycrisp Apple...............................................................................................................................................$26 Zestar!® Apple...................................................................................................................................................$33 Sugar Maple........................................................................................................................................................$61 Autumn Blaze® Maple......................................................................................................................................$56 Sienna Glen® Maple..........................................................................................................................................$62 Blue Beech..........................................................................................................................................................$59 Hackberry...........................................................................................................................................................$42 MN Strain Redbud.............................................................................................................................................$54 Shademaster® Honeylocust............................................................................................................................$56 First Editions® Gladiator™ Crab......................................................................................................................$40

Alice in Wonderland Families with Children Ages 10 and under

Don’t be late for a very important date! Attend Alice in Wonderland’s tea party. The party will consist of finger sized refreshments, crafts, bingo, and a lot of fun. Fee includes one adult per registered child. Limit 30 children per session. Event held at the Blaine City Hall Atrium. Saturday, May 11, 10am or noon $20 res; $21 nr

Sale Restrictions • You must be a Blaine resident. • Residents may purchase up to two trees per Blaine address. Order early, trees sell out quickly. To order, visit BlaineMN.gov/ArborDayTreeSale. For questions, call Public Works at 763-785-6165 or email Trees@BlaineMN.gov.

Earth Day Park Clean Up Event

Celebrate Earth Day by gathering with neighbors and cleaning up the neighborhood park. The Parks and Recreation Department is looking for residents to organize an Earth Day clean-up event at any of Blaine’s 66 parks. Select the date, time, and park. Supplies are provided. Select a date anytime between April 17 and May 15. Sign up online at BlaineMN. gov/2023EarthDaySignup or contact Joy Handt at 763-717-2724 or jhandt@blainemn.gov to get started.

Super Hero Party

Families with Children Ages 10 and under Children can dress up like their favorite super hero and fly around and try activities which include carnival games, crafts, tattoos, balloon artist, and more. Everything is in the super hero theme. There will also be a few super heroes walking around for pictures. Do not forget a camera. Refreshments provided. Max 100. Event held at Tom Ryan Park. Friday, May 18 6:30-8pm $20 res; $21 nr