Issuu

CityConnect BlaineMN.gov

January/February 2026

2026 • Project goes out for bid

What’s Inside

• Bid process completed, contractor selected • Construction begins on west side frontage road and other side street improvements

2027/2028 • Highway 65 bridge construction at 99th, 105th, 109th, and 117th Avenues

2029 • Completion of local road connections underneath new Highway 65 bridges

Clearing the Way - How Blaine’s Plow Crews Keep the City Moving...................3

Highway 65 Construction Begins in 2026 Project to Last Four Years

Summer Jobs.............................................................5

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), in partnership with Anoka County and the City of Blaine, continues to move forward with plans to reconstruct Highway 65 between 97th Avenue and 125th Avenue. Recently two public open houses were held to share project details, and another business focused meeting was held for area business owners. Highway 65 is Blaine’s busiest corridor, carrying thousands of vehicles each day. The planned improvements will address longstanding safety and congestion issues by converting key intersections into safer, gradeseparated interchanges. The project also includes new frontage and backage roads, upgraded pedestrian connections, and improved drainage.

Community Gardens..............................................8

Current plans call for two lanes in each direction to remain open on Highway 65 throughout most of the construction. Once completed, the project will provide smoother travel, fewer delays, and better access to neighborhoods and businesses along the corridor. These improvements aim to reduce crashes, improve mobility, and support Blaine’s continued growth.

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

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID ADVANCED MAIL

Residents are encouraged to stay informed throughout the process. MnDOT’s Highway 65 project page includes design layouts, timelines, and opportunities to sign up for project updates. Visit BlaineMN.gov/ThriveOn65 for links to MnDOT resources and a project overview.

Reminder: New Garbage and Recycling Routes Starting January 5, 2026

Updated garbage and recycling collection routes launch on January 5. This is the first major update since 2012. The changes were developed through a collaboration between city staff and Walters to create more balanced and efficient service routes. The route changes will impact about 30 percent of all households in the City. If your pickup day changed, you should have received a mailed notice. You can also check your schedule at BlaineMN.gov/GarbageAndRecycling or in the Walters app. Even if your day didn’t change, pickup times may vary, so set carts out by 6AM to avoid missed service. Questions? City of Blaine: BlaineMN.gov/GarbageAndRecycling or 763-785-6141 Walters Recycling & Refuse: WaltersRecycling.com or 763-780-8464

Page 2

BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Upcoming Meetings

Recycling Calendar January s

763-784-6700

Communications@BlaineMN.gov

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

WARD 1 Chris Ford 612-494-8275 CFord@BlaineMN.gov Tom Newland 651-271-3341 TNewland@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 Erik Thorvig 763-785-6120 EThorvig@BlaineMN.gov

February

Zone A

City Council* January 5 | January 21 February 2 | February 18 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

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

Park Board* January 27 | February 24 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

March

Holiday

City Council

10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449

Blaine City Hall

Planning Commission* January 13 | February 10 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

As meeting frequency may change depending on the need, please check the City’s website for the most current information. Zone B

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 ..................... 763-785-6146 Forestry .................................. 763-785-6165 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.......................................... 763-398-5488

Connect with your community and sign up for topics that interest you BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe @BlaineMN, @BlaineBizMN, @BlaineParksMN, @BlainePoliceMN

@CityofBlaine @BlaineMinnesota, @BlaineBizMN, @BlaineParksMN, @BlainePoliceMN

City of Blaine, Minnesota City of City ofBlaine, Blaine, Blaine Police Blaine PoliceDepartment Department @BlaineMN, @BlaineBizMN, @BlaineParksMN, @BlainePoliceMN YouTube.com/CityofBlaine

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 2026

Page 3

Freezin’ for a Reason The Polar Plunge for Special Olympics

The Polar Plunge for Special Olympics is one of Minnesota’s most exciting and meaningful winter traditions. Each year, participants from across the community including families, businesses, civic groups, first responders, and public officials take a bold leap into icy waters to support athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event is not just about the thrill of the plunge; it’s about raising funds, awareness, and celebrating inclusion. Law enforcement plays an especially important role in the Polar Plunge. Their participation helps raise critical support for year-round training and competition opportunities for Special Olympics athletes. The involvement of police officers and first responders also sends a powerful message of unity, acceptance, and community partnership. Their willingness to take the plunge demonstrates their commitment to creating inclusive, supportive spaces for everyone. The Anoka County Polar Plunge returns to Blaine for the third year on Saturday, February 28 at Lakeside Commons Park. Whether you want to plunge, form a team, volunteer, donate, or simply cheer on the participants, there are many ways to get involved. Every contribution, big or small, helps change lives. Excitement is also building as Minnesota prepares to host the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, June 20 to 26. Events will take place at the University of Minnesota and right here in Blaine at the National Sports Center. Nearly 4,000 athletes, 1,500 coaches, 10,000 volunteers, and 75,000 fans from across the country will celebrate athleticism, determination, and inclusion across 19 sports. We invite you to be part of the movement - celebrating the abilities of all, supporting Special Olympics athletes, and fostering a legacy of inclusion in Blaine and beyond. Sign-up to plunge, donate, volunteer, and learn more at BlaineMN.gov/PolarPlunge.

Give Your Space Heater Some Space Winter Fire Safety Tip

During Minnesota’s long winter stretch, space heaters are a common way to warm up chilly rooms, but they are also one of the leading causes of home heating fires. A simple habit can make a big difference: keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from your space heater. That includes blankets, furniture, clothing, and décor. Always turn the heater off when you leave the room or head to bed and plug it directly into a wall outlet (never a power strip). This small precaution is one of the most effective ways to prevent winter heating fires and keep your home safe all season long. If you have questions about home fire safety, the Spring Lake ParkBlaine-Mounds View (SBM) Fire Department is here to help! Give us a call today at 763-767-4003.

Clearing the Way

How Blaine’s Plow Crews Keep the City Moving When a snowstorm hits, the City of Blaine Public Works crews are ready to hit the road. During a storm, efforts are focused on keeping major roads clear so traffic can keep moving safely and emergency vehicles can get through. Once the storm concludes, crews move on to neighborhood collector streets, local residential streets, and 316 cul-de-sacs. With 280.1 miles of city streets (576.8 lane miles), 109 miles of sidewalks, and 66 miles of trails, it can take several hours to clear every road, path, and walkway efficiently. It’s important to note that not all roads in Blaine are plowed by the City. Some roads are maintained by Anoka County or the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and those agencies follow their own plowing routes and timelines. This can mean a nearby road is cleared sooner or later depending on who is responsible for that roadway. Residents can help reduce the time it takes to plow city streets by making sure no cars are parked on the street and garbage cans and other items are also kept out of the roadway. Public Works crews work long shifts and follow carefully planned routes that maximize efficiency to help the City get back to moving as soon as possible. Learn more at BlaineMN.gov/SnowPlow.

Christmas Tree Collection Walters Recycling and Refuse will be collecting Christmas trees the first two weeks of the year from: Monday, January 5 thru Friday, January 16 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 they will be collected the next day.

Page 4

BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

2026 Budget and Tax Levy Approved On December 15, the City Council approved the 2026 city budget and tax levy. The tax levy is 9.9 percent higher than in 2025, a reduction from the 15 percent increase approved the previous year.

Need help with energy bills? Average benefits are $550, with a maximum of $1,400.

For the median-valued home in Blaine, the 2026 levy will result in a property tax increase of just under $10 per month. Individual property tax bills may vary based on changes in property value, which are determined by Anoka County, not the City of Blaine. This budget reflects the City Council’s ongoing direction to reduce levy increases in future years. To limit additional levy growth, the 2026 general fund budget includes no new staff positions. The budget maintains current service levels residents expect while also reducing the City’s reliance on long-term debt. The City will continue to prioritize public safety, which has contributed to a steady decline in the most serious types of crime in recent years. Investments in fire services have also improved response times. Public safety, public works, and recreation account for just over 71 percent of the total tax levy. The budget and levy were developed over the course of the year, with information presented and discussed at 13 public meetings between February and December. For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/Budget.

What is it? Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program helps renters and homeowners keep homes heated, lights on, and more.

Who is it for? People who rent or own their home and struggle with their energy bills can qualify.

How much can I receive? • Average benefit is $550, with a maximum of $1,400, depending on household income and fuel costs. • Free repair or replacement of homeowner’s broken furnace. • Free energy efficiency home upgrades that can permanently lower your bills.

Improve Your Curb Appeal with the Front Door Grant Key Requirements • The City has two rounds of applications, submit by March 15 for the spring application deadline or by May 1 for the summer application deadline. • Applications are open for owner occupied homes built in 1996 or earlier with assessed values at or below $450,000. • No income limits. • 2025 Front Door Grant recipients are not eligible. • Full program terms available at BlaineMN.gov/FrontDoor.

Eligible Improvements Required Projects

Optional Project

Must include at least one item from this list with a minimum cost of $1,000

Can be added to your project if you also include a required project. Completing a project from this list only does not qualify.

• • • •

Am I eligible? Household Size

Annual Income Limit

$35,799

$46,814

$57,829

$68,845

$79,860

$90,875

Call 1-800-657-3710 Visit Online For more information, visit MN.gov/Home

Apply for Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program

• • • •

• •

Garage door Front door Full view storm door Accents • Decorative lighting • Shutters • Window boxes • Address numbers Permanent landscaping Brick, stone, shake, or other contrasting siding texture Premium siding, such as Hardie, LP, or EDCO Adding or expanding front porch or stoop (finished size of 60 square feet or more required) Adding or enhancing front door/porch columns Maintenance free decorative fence

• • • • • • • •

Roof Siding Windows Gutters, trim, soffit, fascia Brick repointing Stucco redashing Driveway/sidewalk Retaining wall repair/replacement

Application Steps • • • • • • • •

Identify what projects you want to complete Apply online at BlaineMN.gov/FrontDoor by the application deadline Application deadlines: March 15 or May 1 Obtain bids for your project within 10 weeks of application approval Sign grant agreement with the city Complete your project within six months of application approval Submit receipts/paid invoices and completion paperwork Receive a check If you have any questions, contact Elizabeth at 763-717-2751 or EShowalter@BlaineMN.gov.

Planning Your Project The Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) offers home improvement loans in partnership with the City of Blaine and the State of Minnesota. Visit MNCEE.org/Blaine or call 612-335-5884 to learn more.

Lending Options 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 If you have any questions, call 612-244-2470.

January/February 2026

Page 5

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

must be 16 years and older

Public Works Jobs

must be 17 years and older

•

Work with kids

•

Opportunities include the Playnet program, youth sport coaches, and park attendants

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

•

Approximately June 1 - August 15 (depending on position)

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

•

Must have a valid/clear driver’s license

•

No evenings, weekends, or holidays

•

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

•

For more information and to apply, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineMN.gov/Jobs.

For more information and to apply, call 763-785-6165 or visit BlaineMN.gov/Jobs.

Get Gritty and Reduce Salt Use When water pollution gets tough, the tough Get Gritty. Give grit a try and pick up a free bag at the Frattallone’s Hardware and Garden Center in Blaine, while supplies last. More locations are listed at getgrittymn.org. Road salt is a permanent pollutant that damages the health of our local lakes, creeks, rivers, and wetlands. Salt also rusts cars, damages soil, and kills plants. It takes only one teaspoon of salt to permanently pollute five gallons of fresh water. Once salt is in a water body, there is no practical way to remove it. Thankfully, salt is not our only option for winter ice safety. Chicken grit, or grit, is a chloride-free, non-chemical alternative to salt that can provide traction on roads, sidewalks, and driveways during the winter. Unlike salt, grit is reusable, works in all temperatures, and will not damage pavement. Apply grit like how you would apply salt. Sweep up excess grit and spread it around in high traffic areas like sidewalks and driveways. Grit doesn’t disappear, so it can be reused and moved as needed. Simply sweep up the grit and put it into a container for future use. Be part of the solution. Pick up a free bag of grit and learn how to use it. Every teaspoon of salt kept out of our water makes a long-term impact. The Get Gritty campaign is a partnership between Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District, Coon Creek Watershed District, Rice Creek Watershed District, and Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization.

Recycling Saturdays 8am — noon

Job postings will be available in early 2026 at BlaineMN.gov/Jobs. Applications will be due in March, with interviews taking place this spring.

Parks and Recreation Jobs

Blaine

GRIT getgrittymn.org

User Guide

• STEP Step11 Shovel shoveloften. often. Shovelearly, early, shovel This slippery Thiseliminates eliminates slippery surfaces theycan can surfaces before before they form form.

• STEP Step22 Sprinkle liberallyonto onto Sprinkle grit grit liberally a surface. We a slippery slipperyoutdoor outdoor surface. do do notnot recommend applying We recommend to marble. applying to marble.

• STEP Step33 Gritisisreusable! reusable! After snow Grit After snow andice ice melts, melts, simply and simplysweep sweep upthe the grit grit and into a a up andput putit it into container for container forfuture futureuse. use.

• STEP Step44 Marvel yournew newgritty gritty Marvel at at your lifestyle. locallake lake lifestyle. Your Your local thanks thanks you! you!

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, 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. Bike Collection for Bikes4KidsMN.org Drop off any size bicycle. Bikes will be refurbished or have their parts used in refurbishing other bikes. Bikes are then donated to people in need. There is no charge to drop off a bike. Bikes for Kids is part of the Robert & Wilma Burbach Bike Foundation. Bike collection will resume in April. 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

Page 6

BlaineParks.com or BlaineEvents.com - Recreation Connection

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 Jim Peterson Athletic Complex....................... Hockey/General Rink...............................................12302 Cloud Drive Lexington Athletic Complex.............................. Hockey/General Rink..............................................4286 121st Avenue Ostmans Park........................................................... Hockey/General Rink...........130th Avenue and Buchanan Street

Warming House Hours

RecConnect

Winter/Spring 2026 Winter/Spring 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, and choose News: BlaineParks.

Aurelia, Ostmans, Happy Acres, Lexington and Jim Peterson Athletic Complex Monday - Friday............................................................................................................................................................................. 4-9pm Saturday.................................................................................................................................................................................. noon-9pm Sunday...................................................................................................................................................................................... noon-7pm School Vacation Days (Happy Acres and Lexington Athletic Complex Only).......................................... noon-9pm School Vacation Days (All Other Locations)..................................................................................................................... 4-9pm Christmas Eve and Christmas Day......................................................................................................................................closed New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day............................................................................................................................ noon-5pm

Outdoor Lighted Rink without Warming Houses or Staff Quincy Park............................................................... Small Hockey/General Rink.....................10601 Quincy Boulevard

Outdoor Unlighted Rinks without Warming Houses or Staff Carrara East Park........................................................................................................................................ 13129 Eldorado Street Xylite Park................................................................................................................................................................9033 Xylite Street Rinks and warming houses are open, weather permitting. For up to date information about skating rinks, visit BlaineParks.com/SkatingRinks.

QC Dance

All Classes Held at QC Dance QC Dance strives to provide quality dance instruction and a variety of fun opportunities to learn and demonstrate dance skills while building self-esteem. Dance classes offered range from age 0-11. Mommy and Me; Kidlets: Intro to Dance; Kidance: Intro to Dance; Hippity Hop; Hip Hop; Ninja Acro Camp. For complete details on each of these classes, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Puzzlepalooza ages 12 and up Puzzlers, get your team together and come to the Blaine City Hall Puzzlepalooza jigsaw puzzle challenge. Teams of up to four people will compete to finish a 1000-piece puzzle in the shortest amount of time. Puzzles and tables are provided. Rings for first, second, and third place. Maximum of 16 teams of 4 per team. Held at Blaine City Hall Atrium . Thursday, January 29 6-8:30pm $50 res team; $55 nr team For information, visit BlaineMN.gov/Register.

Tech Academy All Classes are Virtual

Multiplayer Minecraft: City Builder ages 6 to 12 Saturday, January 17, 9am-noon $55

Intro to 3D Printing ages 7 to 11 Saturdays, January 24 & 31, 9am-noon $85

Video Game Design ages 9 to 14 Saturday, February 7, 9am-noon $55

Mod Development: Minecraft Portals & Biomes ages 8 to 13 Saturdays, February 15 & 21, 9am-noon $100

Intro to AI Coding ages 8 to 12 Saturday, February 28, 9-11am $40 For complete virtual class descriptions, visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

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

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 camps are offered for ages 2 to 10. There is something for everyone! Super Tots Sampler; Mini-Hawks Sampler; Skyhawks Sampler; Mini-Hawks Volleyball; Skyhawks Beginning Volleyball; Super Tots Hoopster Tots; Mini Hawks Basketball; Skyhawks Basketball.

BlaineEvents.com

For complete descriptions, fees, dates, and locations, visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Winter/Spring 2026

Page 7

QC Zumba

Class is Held at QC Dance Studio 9967 Ulysses Street NE 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. With Zumba, the fun comes first, and the physical benefits follow. The class will be a fat burning, body shaping, fun workout. Session 1: Wednesdays, January 7-28 Session 2: Wednesdays, February 4-25 8-8:45pm $40/session/res; $45/session nr

RecConnect

Winter/Spring 2026

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

Adult Softball Play Begins the Week of April 27

Men’s, women’s, and co-rec leagues will be offered for the summer 2026 season. Registration materials will be available after January 1, and registration officially opens February 2. League play is set to begin the week of April 27, giving teams plenty of time to prepare for the season. For information, visit BlaineMN.gov/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. Max 15. Saturday, February 21, 1-3pm $30/person For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Learn to Curl ages 12 and up Each lesson is a two-hour introduction and instructional session that teaches the basics of curling. Participants learn physical play, rules, and strategy. Please have clean shoes (athletic shoes with rubber soles not worn from the parking lot into the building) and warm clothing (45 degrees at ice level). Held at Four Seasons Curling Club. Friday, January 30, 630-8:30pm $45/person For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

Tae Kwon Do ages 5 and up Classes offered for ages 5 to 7 with parent/adult, ages 8 to 12, and ages 13 to adult. These are great classes to develop discipline, strength, stamina, and flexibility. Please wear comfortable clothing. Testing and uniforms are available for an extra fee through the instructor. Held at the Sunnyside Park building with instructor Mr. Bill Frauly, 3rd DAN black belt. For fees and dates, 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 snowpack and learn how easy and fun snowshoeing is. This program is well suited for families. Class will be instructed by Anoka County and held at Lochness Park. Max 15. Saturday, February 7, 1-3pm $30/person For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.

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

Page 8

BlaineMN.gov - CityConnect

Heroes and Helpers Making a Large Impact on Area Children

The Blaine Police Department recently held its annual Heroes and Helpers event, bringing holiday cheer to 70 students, the most ever in the program’s history. Organized with help from the Anoka-Hennepin, Spring Lake Park, and Centennial School Districts, the program pairs students who could use a little extra support with a “Hero,” which could be a police officer, firefighter, or paramedic. Heroes pick up their assigned student from school and take them to Target, where they help shop for their family using donated gift cards. This year through generous donations each student could spend $250 on presents for their family. After the student’s wish list is complete, the Hero assists with wrapping the presents and then brings the student home. The program provides a fun and meaningful experience for both the students and the Heroes, creating lasting memories and strengthening community connections. This year’s record-breaking event brought joy to students who might otherwise have had a less cheerful holiday season. The Blaine Police Department thanks all Heroes and school staff involved for making the event possible and looks forward to continuing this tradition in the years ahead. To see a full photo gallery of the event, visit BlaineMN.gov/Flickr.

Snow Day Saturday, January 31, 1-4PM, Free - All Ages Welcome Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main Street, Lino Lakes 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.

10am-4pm

Community Gardens Now Taking Applications for 2026 Plot The Blaine Community Garden is located adjacent to Blaine City Hall’s south parking lot. Plots are approximately 15 x 20 feet for a full plot; 15 x 10 feet for a half plot; raised beds are 4 x 8 feet; 3 ADA beds are 34 inches high and 44 square feet. Registrations for a plot are on a priority basis: December 8 – February 6: 2025 returning gardeners requesting the same plot. February 9-17: 2025 returning gardeners requesting a different plot. February 18-full: New gardeners. Application forms are available at Blaine City Hall. For more information email LRynders@BlaineMN.gov or call 763-785-6163.

Craft Fair Saturday, March 14 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.