FN_August_2015AUGUST 2015
No. 195
6431 University Avenue NE
Fridley, MN 55432
phone: 763-571-3450
www.FridleyMN.gov
e-mail: info@FridleyMN.gov
P R E S O R T E D S T D
U .S . P o s t a g e
P A I D
T w i n C i t i e s , M N
P e r m i t N O . 9 2 8 8 6
Summer Traditions Bring Community Together
George. We welcomed 132 kids this year. Despite the
threat of impending weather conditions, the first day
was picture perfect, and a little rain the second day
was welcomed by all the campers.
Thank you to the generous businesses and
organizations that donated to 2015 Safety Camp
including Allina Health/Unity Hospital, Fridley
Lions, Arctic Glacier Ice, Fridley VFW Ladies
Auxiliary, Bob’s Produce, Kiwanis, Dunn Bros Coffee,
McDonald’s, Fridley Flames, Perkins, Friendly
Chevrolet, Frito Lay, Safe Kids Anoka County,
Schmit Towing and Voigt’s Bus Company.
Without your support, Safety Camp would not be a
success!
What’s Inside
New Program for
Business Owners ..................2
Be Water-Wise ........................2
Celebrate History ....................2
Start Saving Money ................3
Sewer Improvements ................3
Fridley CEO Honored ..............4
Door to Door Sales ..................4
Warm Hearts of Fridley Flames .5
Goodbye Kona .......................6
Welcome Jax ..........................6
Citizen Academy ....................6
9-1-1 ....................................6
Water Rescue .........................7
Firefighter Kim Herrmann .........7
Add Your Name
to Springbrook ....................8
Mayor – Scott J. Lund
Councilmember-at-Large – Robert L. Barnette
Councilmember 1st Ward – James T. Saefke
Councilmember 2nd Ward – Dolores M. Varichak
Councilmember 3rd Ward – Ann R. Bolkcom
City Manager – Wally Wysopal
City of
We believe in a Fridley that is a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
Fridley
C O M M U N I T Y C O N N E C T I O N
National Trails Day
A small, but dedicated group turned out to celebrate
National Trails Day and our annual Fridley bike/hike
event. Families enjoyed river-inspired art at the
Banfill-Locke Center for the Arts and lively music at
Islands of Peace Park before hiking down to the river’s
edge or riding along the trails. Look for an even bigger
and better event next spring!
Summer Camps
Nature Camps, ROCKS, the Playground Program
and Wednesday Field Trips kept kids busy all summer!
From fun in the sun to creative art, there was never a
dull moment. Fridley Recreation offers a great option
for kids in grades K-7, perfect for working parents or
to simply preempt the words “I’m bored.” The season
wraps up this month, but we invite you to join us
again next year! Sign up begins in April.
Stay Connected!
Like Us on Facebook:
search City of Fridley
Follow Us on Twitter:
@CityofFridley
“Friendly Fridley” is often referenced for our small-
town feel within a big city, and summer is the perfect
time to celebrate our town’s traditions.
Fridley ‘49er Days
A Thursday night parade helped jump-start the 41st
year of ‘49er Days weekend of fun. Captain Bob
Rewitzer led the parade fun, taking over the driver’s
seat traditionally held by Fridley’s Director of Public
Safety. Director Abbott stepped aside this year to
honor Captain Rewitzer’s 26 years serving the Fridley
Police Department.
Grand Marshal Karla Blomberg waved proudly from
the familiar cherry red 1970 Chevrolet Caprice
during the 85+ unit parade which included 4
marching bands and a number of royalty floats. Karla
is the volunteer president and one of the founders of
Wishes & More, a charity organization that grants
wishes to children fighting a terminal or life-
threatening condition. She was nominated and
selected by the Fridley Lions.
Fridley fun continued at Commons Park with
jumping, dancing, eating, singing and more! The new
venue was a terrific success. Gorgeous weather,
fabulous turnout, 5 live bands, animal friends and
BINGO – now that’s a party! Fridley High School
alumni gathered Saturday night at the all-school
reunion, and the Chris Brooks Band closed it all
down with street dancing until dark.
Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate
‘49er Days, and especially, to all the vendors and
organizers who made the weekend a success.
Safety Camp
For 21 years, Police, Fire, Recreation and Allina
Medical have come together to teach children
invaluable life skills. One of the new topics this year
was Internet Safety presented by the BCA – Internet
Crimes Against Children. From how to escape a home
fire, to basic first aid, to the importance of bicycle
helmets, this 2-day event is always a hit. Who had
more fun, kids or counselors? That may be a debatable
question, but one thing is for certain – everyone was
well fed!
A special thank you to our awesome volunteers:
Margaret Tschaekofske, Dean Olson, Ann Bangen,
Beth Fjerstad, Kathy Messer and Jessica Strange
New Program to Help
Fridley Business Owners
Looking for a trusted
advisor for your business?
Maybe you have wanted
to secure financing to start
or expand your business?
If so, a new program offered by the City of Fridley
may be just what you are looking for.
Thanks to a partnership between Anoka County
and the Metropolitan Consortium of Community
Developers (MCCD), business owners or those
looking to start a new business can access a new
program called “Open to Business.”
Free Technical Assistance
Open to Business will provide prospective and
existing entrepreneurs with free one-on-one
counseling with a business advisor. The program
provides assistance in the following areas:
•financial management
•loan packaging
•business plan assistance
•real estate analysis
•marketing assistance
•strategic planning
•business regulations
•professional referrals
Small Business Loan Program
Open to Business advisors can also help
entrepreneurs identify borrowing needs and access
financing options. Advisors work with clients to
help them find the financing that best meets their
own unique needs. MCCD also provides direct
financing and loans in partnership with banks and
nonprofit lenders. Funds can be used for inventory,
working capital, asset and equipment purchases,
real estate acquisition, and start-up costs.
How it Works
Business Advisor Kathleen DuChene holds office
hours on the second Tuesday of every month from
10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Fridley City Hall,
6431 University Avenue NE.
For more information on the services offered
or to schedule an appointment, contac t
Kathleen DuChene at 763-438-7315 or email
info@opentobusinessmn.org.
For general information, visit the Open to Business
website: www.opentobusinessmn.org.
Most of Fridley is located in the Anoka Sand Plain,
so residents are growing lawn, trees, shrubs and
flowers in fast-draining soils which dry out in mid-
summer. While this is a good thing for helping to
re-charge groundwater, maintaining traditional
lawns and landscaping here drinks up a LOT of
water. It might be time to evaluate our outdoor
water use and landscape styles.
Re-thinking Lawn in Shade Helps Trees
Stop the endless quest to keep grass alive under tree
canopies. Grass does not like shade and studies have
shown that tree roots are reduced by lawn
competition, creating big problems for trees in
summer drought. The University of MN suggests
replacing turf around trees with a wide circle of
organic mulch and using native shade-tolerant
plants to eliminate these shady problems.
Do You Need that Much Lawn
in the Front Yard?
Lawn is water-hungry and chemical intensive, and
needs mowing. In locations where we do not walk
or play, why not trim out a nice chunk of lawn and
give birds, pollinators and Monarch butterflies a
hand? Plant native and non-invasive flowers and
shrubs suited to our Mississippi River community.
Add More Mulch, Repeat
Hardwood shredded bark mulch around trees,
flowers and in shrub beds keeps soil temperatures
lower—reducing the need for frequent watering. It
also reduces evaporation after a rain or when you do
water. A bonus—organic mulches break down to
improve soil structure—a triple win. But make
those tree bark rings a LOT bigger. Think 8 feet,
not 8 inches. It reduces lawn mower and string
trimmer damage to tree trunks, too.
Dig in with Compost
Organic matter like peat moss and composted
manure improves the water-holding capacity of
sandy soils and balances the composition between
air and minerals in soils. Work it into flower and
shrub beds each year, because it decomposes
gradually.
Soak Deeply to Water Wisely
Sandy soils, higher temperatures, winds, drought
conditions, and new plantings require increased
watering, so let’s maximize water use:
•Water early in the morning when evaporation
rates are low.
•Deep soak—a slow trickle that saturates tree,
shrubs, and flower beds is better than frequent,
shallow watering because it results in better-
rooted, more drought-resistant plants.
•Avoid water running down the driveway and
into the storm drain by adjusting irrigation
heads, also don’t leave sprinklers unattended.
•Irrigation system at home or work? Make sure
there is a functioning water sensor. We all see
irrigation heads spraying walks, the street or
running while it rains, wasting precious water.
Save Rain Water with
Rain barrels and Cisterns
Every big box store outdoor sales yard has rain
barrels now and they are surprisingly effective if you
put 100 of them in a neighborhood, so grab a few.
And, Grandpa’s cistern from the farm is making a
comeback for urban use.
Find out More
Visit us online at FridleyMN.gov/WaterWise for
more water-saving resources.
page 2 F r i d l e y C o m m u n i t y C o n n e c t i o n
Be Water-Wise!
Fall is NOT the best time to fertilize. It is actually right now!
Early August through early September
is the time to seed grass and repair those lawns.
Headed to the Lake?
Catch a great deal at Fridley Liquor and
stock up on all your favorites.
And to “reel you in” save up to 50% with our monthly
email specials. Sign up online at www.FridleyLiquor.com
to get in on these exclusive deals!
Celebrate History
Join the Fridley History Center on
Wednesday, August 12, starting at
6:00 p.m., as we celebrate all the
organizations and businesses in Fridley
that support us and so many others.
Enjoy music by the Fridley City Band
and ice cream! Visit our website for
details at www.fridleyhistory.org.
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Don’t Wait Until Winter to
Start Saving Money and Energy
Over 150 Fridley households are enjoying increased
comfort and energy savings in their homes thanks
to Home Energy Squad Enhanced. Even though
winter seems far off, now is a great time to join
them and get the benefit from energy efficiency
year-round. The City of Fridley HRA is offering a
50% discount on these visits. Home Energy Squad
Enhanced visits are available to you for only $50.
During the two-hour visit, a team of trusted energy
consultants will assess your home’s energy efficiency.
This will include a blower door test to measure your
home for air leaks, an insulation inspection, a safety
check of your heating system and water heater, and
the installation of energy saving materials. The
installed materials are included in the cost of the
visit and may include door weather stripping,
compact florescent light bulbs, high efficiency
showerheads, faucet aerators, a programmable
thermostat and more! At the end of the visit you will
receive a customized Energy Fitness Plan with a
prioritized list of energy improvements.
Here is what a few Fridley residents have to say
about the visit:
“It’s great to have this program here in Fridley. It
helps people understand how they’re using energy
in their homes, and the installation of all of those
energy saving products really helps reduce utility
costs.”
“I was extremely pleased with the two
representatives of CEE that came for my home
energy visit. They were pleasant, friendly, and
explained things very well. This is such a great
program.”
If you would like to save energy like your neighbors,
call Beth at 612-335-5874 to schedule your visit
today. For more information, go online to
mncee.org/hes-fridley.
Home Energy Squad Enhanced is provided
by CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy and
delivered by the nonprofit Center for Energy and
Environment (CEE).
Sewer Improvements
in Fridley
When and Where?
Metropolitan Council Environmental Services
(MCES) will begin work this month on aging and
deteriorating sanitary sewer facilities in Fridley. Work
will take place parallel the railroad tracks that are west
of University Avenue, from 73rd Avenue NE on the
north end, to Mississippi Street on the south end of
the project, and also west of the tracks at Hickory
Circle. Construction areas will pass through the
western edges of Fridley Community Park and Plaza
Park. The work will be done in several stages and
continue through September 2016.
Why?
The majority of the concrete sewer is
approximately 50 years old and is showing signs of
corrosion and cracking inside the pipe. Repairs will
extend the life of the sewer for several decades, as
well as prevent groundwater and stormwater from
leaking into the sewer.
How will Property Owners
be Affected?
The most noticeable impact will be detouring Rice
Creek West Trail from the entrance to Community
Park off of University Avenue and over to
Mississippi Street NE. There also will be periodic
restriction of traffic on 69th Avenue NE. Other
impacts may include contractor equipment
parking; extended work hours, including 24-hour
operations during portions of the project; and
lights, dust and some noise from pumps, generators
and other construction equipment. There also may
be a resin smell from the curing of the new sewer,
and the potential for sewer odor related to the
repair work. MCES (Metropolitan Council
Environmental Services) and its contractor will
work to minimize these odors.
Who Pays for the Work?
The cost of this project is not assessed to adjacent
property owners. It is spread out among all MCES
sewer customers in the metro area and built into
your utility bill.
Use Caution and Stay Safe
Temporary wastewater pipes are pressurized sewers.
If you notice any vandalism to these pipes or
construction equipment, please call 9-1-1.
To ensure your safety, we ask that you, your
children and pets stay away from all sewer repair
areas and equipment.
More Information
Additional information about these improvements
will be posted and updated on the MCES website:
www.metrocouncil.org/sewerconstructionupdates.
Or contact MCES staff directly:
•Steve Vogl, construction contract manager,
651-602-8916 or steve.vogl@metc.state.mn.us
•Tim O’Donnell, project citizens liaison, at 651-
602-1269 or tim.odonnell@metc.state.mn.us
•Jeff Schwarz, project manager, 651-602-8921
or jeffrey.schwarz@metc.state.mn.us
Green Book Fair
September 17, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Fridley Community Center –
Open to All Ages
FREE
Come share your love of reading!
Bring in a book! Pick up a book!
Come check us out! Our Senior Program offers a wide
range of activities for adults age 55+ including theater
trips, card clubs, leagues, support groups, movies, and
more. We have something for everyone!
Join us for our annual Fall Kick-Off
and Pie Social. We will be show -
casing the Senior Program, high -
lighting the program sponsors with
a Resource Fair, and eating some
yummy pie! Be the first to register
for our fun fall events including the
Dinner Theater, Veterans Day and
the 40th Annual Holiday Dinner.
fridley senior center events
Fall Kick-Off and Pie Social
September 24, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Including Flu Shots from 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Registration Required! Call (763) 502-5150.
Space is limited.
page 4 F r i d l e y C o m m u n i t y C o n n e c t i o n
Ding-Dong!
Door-to-Door Sales in Fridley
Storms seem to have a habit of leaving a mark in
Fridley. Whenever one rolls through, it is quickly
followed by solicitors — phone calls, door-to-door
visitors, flyers, etc.
It would be virtually impossible for us to regulate
phone solicitation calls. Be smart. Do your
homework. If an offer sounds too good to be true,
be cautious. If you are uncomfortable with the
tone, feel pressured or unsafe, hang up.
What is a solicitor?
The City of Fridley does what we can to regulate
door-to-door sales. A solicitor is defined as an
individual who comes up to your door, knocks and
offers you a service or product. These types of sales
people are required to be licensed through the City.
Delivering flyers is not considered door-to-door
solicitation unless that person stops to talk to the
homeowner about their product.
Why require a license?
Your safety is our top priority. One of the key
elements of obtaining a City license is the police
background check. We check character, reputation
and criminal activity, and if the background
investigation comes up with red flags, we will not
issue the license.
What should you do?
Anytime you are approached at your door or in
your yard by a salesperson, you should ask to
see their City of Fridley Solicitor’s License. You
can also verify licensed solicitors online at
FridleyMN.gov/791. If they don’t have one or you
doubt their credentials, contact Fridley Police by
calling 9-1-1. In Anoka County, 9-1-1 is used for
both emergency and non-emergency reporting.
Businesses providing tree trimming or tree services,
and waste haulers, also require licensing through
the City of Fridley, whether or not they solicit to
your door.
The best way to protect yourself from any possible
scam is to do your homework. Use referrals from
others; check references; confirm state license status
for any residential contractor; look up history and
reputation through the Better Business Bureau. Do
not feel pressured and do not hand over payment
without researching any unfamiliar company.
Helpful Resources:
MN Dept of Labor & Industry:
www.doli.state.mn.us
Look up construction license and read tips on
hiring a contractor.
City of Fridley: www.FridleyMN.gov
Apply for a Solicitor’s License or look up city-
licensed businesses
Better Business Bureau: www.bbb.org/Minnesota
Check on a company’s history, complaints and
reputation.
Anoka County Honors Fridley CEO
Laure nt De conin ck, CEO of Mac h ining
Technology in Fridley, recently received an award
for outstanding participation in the Anoka County
Economic Gardening class of 2015. He was cited
for “consistently providing insight and leadership”
in monthly CEO roundtable discussions, a key
element to the success of the Economic Gardening
Program.
Deconinck purchased Machining Technology two
years ago. As CEO, he expanded operations,
invested in new equipment, and improved
efficiency. The company recently added a second
shift to meet customer demand and improve lead-
time.
Anoka County’s Economic Gardening Program, an
offshoot of the National Center for Economic
Gardening, supports entrepreneurs by connecting
them to resources and offering them up to 50 hours
of research — the type often only available to
Fortune 500 companies. CEOs also participate in
monthly roundtable forums to share ideas and
discuss common challenges. There is no cost to
individual businesses. Fees are covered by the
Anoka County Housing and Redevelopment
Authority.
A new Anoka County Economic Gardening group
begins in September. Eligible businesses must:
•Have 10-99 full-time employees;
•Generate annual revenue between $1 million
and $50 million;
•Be profitable at least two of the last five years;
•Have a motivated CEO who is committed to
joining roundtable discussions for nine
months.
For more information, contact Karen Skepper at
763-323-5709 or Karen.Skepper@co.anoka.mn.us.
What’s New at Banfill-
Locke Center for the Arts?
Pets on View (through August 22)
Featuring artwork from 8 artists of various
mediums and subjects
Join us on August 8 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. for
our outdoor Pet Expo!
Pet merchandise, pet art making, a pet photo
booth and more! FREE and family-friendly,
including family pets.
17th Annual Art at Rice Creek Festival
Sunday, September 13
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
20 artist vendors: jewelry, handmade
jewelry, pottery and woodworking items
All-day entertainment including the Fridley
City Band, Lady J and Her Root Doctors, and
more!
Create art, explore with our Scavenger Hunt,
try your luck in the raffle, and enjoy a yummy
snack.
Saturday, October 3
9 am – 1 pm
Fridley Public Works
400-71st Ave NE, Fridley
(behind former Columbia Area)
Bring in your old electronics,
appliances, cardboard, scrap metal,
bicycles, mattresses and more!
Most items accepted for FREE;
others for a small charge.
Watch for postcards coming soon!
Check the City website for details,
www.FridleyMN.gov, or give us
a call at 763-572-3594.
Recycling
Fall
Residential
Recycling
Anoka County Commissioner Julie Braastad presents
Laurent Deconinck with Outstanding Participation Award
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Loving a firefighter can be tough. No one
understands this better than Kathy Messer,
president of the Fridley Flames.
“The members of the Fire Department have their
comradery, their ‘brotherhood’, while the fire
families are at home with all of the anxiety and
worry, especially the newer families,” says Messer,
who is married to Lieutenant Todd Messer of the
Fridley Fire Department. They have been married
for almost 18 of the 20 years that he has served with
the department.
That worry and anxiety is a common thread for fire
families, and a few years ago became the foundation
for a new organization called the Fridley Flames.
This auxiliary group provides a helpful and
supportive environment for the families of
firefighters. It also helps families be more
comfortable and familiar at station events.
“We really want to alleviate stress and anxiety by
bringing families closer together. To build bonds
and trust in each other, as well as with the Fire
Department and the officers who are in command
of fire incidents and accidents that our loved ones
are responding to,” explains Messer.
They do not stop there. Fridley Flames is more than
a support group, more than a club with a common
interest. They are active in fundraising and charity
events, committed to giving back to the
community that supports the firefighters they love.
They donate money to Safety Camp, a program
committed to teaching school-age children valuable
safety skills in a fun and encouraging environment.
They make blankets and donate money to SACA.
They help Fridley schools with money for supplies
and other necessities. In the spring and fall, they
donate time: raking and yard cleanup with Chores
and More, highway cleanup along University
Avenue, volunteering at Springbrook Nature
Center, serving meals at Family Table for Fridley
United Methodist Church, donating neck wraps to
Virginia Piper Breast Center, and providing meals
to each other when families are struck with
hardships, illness or the joy of a new baby.
A little closer to their hearts, the Fridley Flames also
purchases additional emergency equipment that
isn’t in the budget for the Fire Department. In the
past, they purchased and donated 3 RIT (rapid
intervention team) bags in case a firefighter gets
trapped in a situation. Right now, they are
purchasing new hoods for each firefighter in the
department. Currently, firefighters only have one
hood per person. By getting more, they can wash
their dirty hoods more often and get rid of
“who-knows-what” trapped inside them. The
Fridley Flames are also purchasing a step that
attaches from the fire truck ladder onto the rooftop,
making it easier and more stable for firefighters to
cross between the two.
Being a fire wife for 18 years, Kathy Messer
understands the dangers. “It is so easy to get
dehydrated in a very short amount of time.”
Because of this, Fridley Flames also provide food,
water, Gatorade and anything else firefighters need
while responding to a fire or incident.
Come support the Fridley Fire Department and the
community this September as the Fridley Flames
host their annual Waffle Breakfast! Yum!
The Warm Hearts of the Fridley Flames
Annual Fridley Flames
Breakfast
Saturday, September 19
8:00 a.m. – Noon
$7/person, Kids 5 and under free!
Fridley Fire Station 1: 6431 University Ave NE
Opens on September 8!
First week is FREE!
Beginning Sept. 14, daily admis -
sion is only $1, or buy a 25-day
pass for $20. Open after school from
3:15 – 6:00 pm for grades 5-8, and
Friday nights from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.
for grades 7-9. Music, video games,
pool tables, snacks and more! Come
see why The Zone is THE place to be!
Key Dates:
October 2: Homecoming After Party
7th-9th from 8:00 – 10:30 p.m. $5
October 9: Grandslam Field Trip
5th-8th from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. $20
October 30: Halloween Party!
5th-6th from 3:15 – 5:30 p.m.
7th-9th from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Save the date for our most popular
event. Buy your ticket now and save:
$7/person at event or $6/person in
advance. (Kids 2 and under are free.)
Carve Pumpkins with Us!
We welcome groups, organizations,
families and all the volunteers we can
get! Pumpkin carving times available
October 11-15. Reserve your spot
today by calling 763-572-3588.
Springbrook Nature Center
100 85th Ave, Fridley • 763.572.3588
The
page 6 F r i d l e y C o m m u n i t y C o n n e c t i o n
Fridley Community Calendar
August
3 Parks & Recreation Commission
4 Night to Unite
5 Nickel Jamboree, Commons Park
5 Appeals Commission
6 HRA Meeting
10 City Council Meeting
11 Environmental Quality & Energy Commission
19 Planning Commission
24 City Council Meeting
September
1 Charter Commission
2 Appeals Commission
3 HRA Meeting
7 City Offices Closed in Observance
of Labor Day
8 Environment Quality & Energy Commission
14 City Council Meeting
14 Parks & Recreation Commission
16 Planning Commission
28 City Council Meeting
NOTE: City Council and Commission meetings start at
7:00 p.m. Meetings are held at the Municipal Center, 6431
University Avenue NE. The public is welcome.
Hearing impaired persons who need an interpreter or other
persons with disabilities who require auxiliary aids and
would like to attend a meeting, should contact Roberta
Collins at 763-572-3500 at least one week in advance.
Goodbye Kona
After 5 years of faithful service, Fridley K-9 Kona
retired in late May. Kona was one of the first two
police dogs to join the Fridley Police Department
in 2009.
Mayor Scott Lund declared May 26, 2015, K-9
Kona Day in recognition of Kona’s years of
dedication to the community. His work for the
City has been nothing short of exceptional. During
his time on the force, Kona was deployed 435
times. This includes 71 trackings, 38
apprehensions, 57 area searches, and 111 alerts
during 172 narcotic sniffs!
A typical police K-9 will serve an average of 8 years.
Kona was forced into early retirement after being
diagnosed with Lumbosacral Stenosis, a condition
causing spinal pain and slower movement.
Kona’s handler, Officer Matt Noren, also resigned
from Fridley Police and will be equally missed.
Officer Noren will be joining the Woodbury Police
Department to work with his wife. K-9 Kona will
remain with the Noren family, and will now adapt
to a life of love and fetch.
Welcome Jax!
A warm welcome to the newest member of the
Fridley Police Department: K-9 Jax and his handler
Officer Tom Roddy!
We will catch up with them this fall after they
complete training. Look for Jax’s public debut soon
– possibly as early as the Fire Open House on
October 3!
Fridley citizens are encouraged to dial 9-1-1 whenever
police, medical or fire personnel are needed. This includes
incidents like excessive barking dogs, traffic situations,
suspicious circumstances, loud parties, injuries or thefts.
Dial 9-1-1 from anywhere inside Anoka County any time you need to
speak with a police officer or make a police report. Please Note: If you
are calling from outside Anoka County to report an incident or concern
within the county, call (763) 427-1212 for Anoka County Dispatch.
Fridley
Police present…
Citizen’s Academy!
This fall Fridley Police will open their doors to
civilians with the 2015 Citizen’s Academy!
“It’s going to give you a hands-on, real in-depth
opportunity to see the inner workings of the
Police Department,” explains Fridley Officer Jim
Mork. “This is your police department. You
should know what we’re doing.”
We are lucky to have a tradition of partnership
between our community members and the
officers that serve our city, and we want to build
on that relationship. The Citizen’s Academy is
one way we can do that.
The academy dives right into the nitty-gritty.
It covers hot topics in the news; the use of
force; K-9 and narcotics investigation; patrol
procedures; criminal investigations and more.
Graduates will have the inside scoop on what’s
happening with Fridley Police, and are
encouraged to share that knowledge with
others. The more they understand about the
Police Department, the stronger our partnership
will be.
The Citizen’s Academy runs September 2
through October 21 on Wednesday nights from
6 - 9 p.m. Classes are held in the lower level of
Fridley City Hall. It is open to anyone, 18 years
or older with no felony convictions, who resides
or works in Fridley. All applicants are subject to
a criminal background check. The academy is
free, but space is limited. Please visit our
website FridleyMN.gov/Police to download an
application, or call 763-572-3629.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Bring the whole family to this fun-for-all-
ages event! Meet firefighters, climb
into a truck, try on gear, learn about
fire prevention and so much more!
Look for details coming soon online at
www.FridleyMN.gov.
Fire Prevention Week is October 4-10:
Hear the BEEP where you SLEEP. Every
bedroom needs a working smoke alarm.
Save the Date!
In Anoka County, 9-1-1 is used for
both emergencies and non-emergencies.
Annual
Fridley
Fire
Open
House
w w w . F r i d l e y M N . g o v page 7
Fridley firefighters are technician-level trained for
ice and surface water rescue. It used to be that most
in-water emergency calls concerned incidences at
Moore Lake and similar smaller types of water
bodies. That is no longer the case. Recently, most
in-water calls have been on the river—stranded
boats, boats out of gas or stuck on rocks, and victim
rescue. Many of these types of assistance require
towing—a capability that Fridley Fire did not have,
until now.
Firefighters are currently being trained on the
operation, approach and recovery for their new
RescueONE ®boat purchased this spring. This boat
will fulfill 3 basic needs for river rescue:
1. Towing containment boom
2. Towing boats and personal watercraft
3. Ability to quickly and safely perform
victim rescue
Unlike the Zodiac boat previously used for in-water
rescue, RescueONE ®is rigid. The flat bottom is
designed for the shallow river, and the 40-
horsepower engine allows for towing/pulling. This
boat can even pull a containment boom, a large
piece of vinyl used for collection in the unfortunate
event of a river spill. The larger horsepower also
helps handle the river’s fast-moving current.
Approach and recovery of an in-water victim can be
tricky in the river current. For that reason,
firefighters train first with barrels to get a feel for
weight and maneuvering. The front ladder/
platform lowers into the water, allowing rescuers a
stable way to get closer to the victim as they are
lifted onto the boat.
Fridley’s automatic response agreement with
neighboring cities (including Brooklyn Park,
Columbia Heights and St. Anthony) means that
additional help is always available. We can provide
better service by implementing similar procedures
and equipment. Fridley now has the same boat as
Brooklyn Park. In terms of the river, boundaries are
not important. We have better access from the
south; they have better access from the north; and
it is always preferable to have two boats deployed
in any water emergency. By having the same
equipment, we are able to work together more
efficiently and even connect the boats together for a
bigger platform, if ever required.
We look forward to providing the best response and
service possible to our entire community.
Water Rescue Makes a Splash
Firefighter
Kim Herrmann
Kim Herrmann is a familiar face around the City of
Fridley. He started with Public Works over 30 years
ago, was hired as a Fridley firefighter in 1988, and
this spring he quietly retired. Despite his low-key
exit, we cannot pass on the opportunity to thank
Firefighter Herrmann for his decades of public
service.
No doubt Kim will still be called upon for advice,
especially for picture help, as his photography skills
were popular in the department. He served with the
department full-time for over 20 years and as Fire
Captain since January 2009.
Kim kicked off his retirement with a ride around the
Great Lakes with the International Association of
Fire Fighters – Motorcycle Group. Not a bad start.
He is no stranger to road trips, having joined the
IAFF-MG on memorial rides over a number of
years. His love of wheels aided him well throughout
his career, as he assisted in planning for the purchase
of many department vehicles, including the newest,
Engine 3, dedicated into service about a year ago.
Kim also took responsibility for the maintenance of
vehicles, including scheduling pump and ladder
testing.
Kim’s talents did not stop there. He also created
many of the features in the web-based scheduling
system currently used by the department for
firefighters to bid and schedule shifts. Kim
religiously monitored the shift schedule and made
sure all areas were covered. As if those contributions
were not enough, Kim was actively involved in the
original design and ongoing maintenance for the
regional fire training facility located in Fridley, and
he was the last original Fridley member of the MN
North Metro Chemical Assessment Team. He served
as a Hazardous Material Technician and Specialist in
several disciplines from its start in 1994.
When asking his fellow firefighters about Kim
Herrmann, the word “kindness” was used without
hesitation. Outside department activity, Kim was
best known for his “random acts of kindness.” Small
moments like plowing out driveways for fellow
firefighters, organizing a smoke detector giveaway,
and even serving hot dogs at Sam’s Club, stand out
in his Fridley legacy.
Back-to-School
Special
Sign up for one class
and get the second class
at HALF price!
Programs at Hayes and Stevenson Elementary
Recreation activities to do when the school day ends. 3:45 - 5:15 p.m.
Fridley’s Recreation After-School Program
offers something for everyone! Check out our
website for more information and class offerings.
www.FridleyMN.gov • 763-572-3570
Kids love Soccer League!
Mummy’s love the Halloween Party!
This spring marked the official kickoff to the
Community Campaign of the SPRING Project,
and now you can be a part of the Springbrook
future.
Background
Over a decade ago, the SPRING (Sanctuary
Protection and Renewal Into the Next Generation)
project was launched, a vision to revitalize the
Springbrook Nature Center. Last year, the vision
was given new life by being awarded a five million
dollar grant from the State of Minnesota.
Fundraising
The Springbrook Nature Center Foundation, a
non-profit organization led by volunteers
committed to the preservation of SNC, has led the
fundraising efforts. These amazing efforts and the
contributions from businesses and individuals
throughout the community along with the state
grant, bring Springbrook up to 86% of their
fundraising objective. Now the goal is to raise
$200,000 through the Community Campaign, a
donor-recognition program.
Vision
Imagine walking up to Springbrook through a
dramatic entrance filled with large sculptures to
create the park’s wetlands with huge cattails, frogs,
ducks and turtles. Experience new interactive
exhibits. Host a wedding or special event in the
expanded hall. Take a pause in the landscaped
memorial plaza. Listen to entertainment or simply
the sounds of nature in the amphitheater. Enjoy an
afternoon with family in the new picnic pavilion
and nature-based play area.
You Can Be Part of Springbrook
The Springbrook Nature Center Foundation has
launched an exciting new Community Campaign
that allows you to be part of the SNC vision. The
new donor recognition program allows you to give
tribute to a loved one, celebrate a special person or
event, or recognize your business. Through this
special program, donors will have the opportunity
to add their name to the project by purchasing a
paver, tree, bench or other select items that will
become a permanent part of the new center.
Trees: Recognition will be added to a centrally
located, shared marker that will be installed
outdoors in a prominent location near the entrance.
City of Fridley staff will select specific tree varieties
appropriate for our climate and will plant them in
the spring or fall.
Benches: A park bench is a wonderful way to honor
a special someone or event! These 6-foot benches
will include a recognition marker with up to 3 lines
of personalization.
Pavers: Help pave the way to our new center by
donating a recognition paver. Offered in 4 different
sizes, each one allows you to leave a lasting
impression on Springbrook with 4-6 lines of text
(depending on paver size).
For more information on how you can donate to
the SPRING project with the purchase of a tree,
bench or paver, visit the Springbrook Foundation
website at www.springbrookfoundation.org or call
Malcolm Mitchell, Chair of the Foundation, at
763-350-1132 or malcolmmitchell@comcast.net.
Next Steps
The City will request bids in late summer to
begin the construction phase of the SPRING
project. Upon favorable acceptance of bids, an
official groundbreaking event may be scheduled
as early as this fall. For updates on the SPRING
project, visit the Springbrook Nature Center
website at www.springbrooknaturecenter.org.
Add Your Name to Springbrook
The 11th Annual Walk for Hope is an opportunity for Alexandra House supporters to come
together to raise money and raise awareness around domestic and sexual violence. Speakers,
music, health screenings, community partners, kids’ activities, and a beautiful course through
Bunker Hills Regional Park make this an event to remember.
Sign up today to ensure you are a part of this moving and
energizing event. Visit alexandrahouse.org.
Race Information
Date: Saturday, September 26
Time: Registration opens at 8:00 a.m. Race starts at 9:30 a.m.
Where: Bunker Hills Park, Pavilion #3
What: 5K Run / 2K Walk, Community Resource Fair, Kids’ Activities
Alexandra House’s mission is to empower victims of domestic and sexual violence, and
to inspire social change through education, support and advocacy.
Walk For Hope Sports & Fitness
Sign Up Now!
4-Person Passing
Football
Begins September 6
$80 for 7 weeks
Fall Softball Leagues
Begins late August
$385 Men’s League
$400 Co-Ed League
Zumba
Mondays or Thursdays
$36 for 6 weeks
Kettlebell
$15 Intro Session
$28 for 4 classes, $39 for 6
classes or $60 for 10 classes
Couple Cardio
Coming this fall! Check our
website for details.
page 8 F r i d l e y C o m m u n i t y C o n n e c t i o n