Here in Big Lake we are in real danger of losing our small town charm with the recent dramatic increase in population. In 2006 the population was 9,174. If we keep growing like this, pretty soon we will have a traffic problem just like North Minneapolis. So, in order to prevent this terrible tragedy from ruining our idyllic lifestyle, I am opening this thread for proposed measures to “Keep Big Lake Minnesota Small”. Please post your suggestions below.

Just a quick reminder to everyone about that evil pest we all fear so much, the Emerald Ash Borer. There was a load of firewood recently at Menard’s that was infested and anyone who purchased that wood should bring it back.

So far Minnesota has been spared the wrath of this horrible plague, but the little bugger  has killed millions of ash trees in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Ontario, and Canada.

You know the Apple Valley Municipal Center, right there on 147th street, yeah that one. Well the other day there were three kids sitting there on their bikes and I saw one of them eating an ice cream cone.  But, I digress, the important thing to remember is that May is Bike Safety Month. So the  Apple Valley Police want to make sure that kids are riding safely this summer. They are hosting a Bike Safety Rodeo. The Bike Safety Rodeo will be on May 19th and includes a skills course, bike equipment check, bike safety quiz and prizes.

 The rodeo is co-sponsored by Mcdonalds, which, I ate a lot when I was a kid and I still love. It will be held at the Apple Valley Community Center( 14603 Hayes Road on Sat. May 19th from 9:00AM-11:00AM. See you there

Andover real estate has been in the news lately because people who know are flocking to this quiet, residential oasis. And now, there are new funds available to help homebuyers come and buy a home in Andover, Anoka County MN.

Take a tour through Albertville, MN and check out the new and old homes available to tour. At this time of year many people list their homes on the market and after a spring cleaning, all the homes look their best.

 Over the weekend, I went for a walk in downtown Albertville and as I was crusing down Main Avenue past City Hall, I was struck by the calm, quiet beauty of this growing residential haven for people fleeing the crowded conditions of communities caught within the 494 ring of the Twin Cities.

Enjoy a show on the big screen in the amphitheater at Central Park. Adults must accompany the children; no dropping off children. $2 per person for the unlimited popcorn and beverage. This event is sponsored by Woodbury Parks and Recreation and the Southeast Area YMCA. Enter the doors on the west side of the facility. Doors open at 6 p.m.The Swiss Family Robinson
Date: Friday, March 16
Time: 6:30 p.m.

VOTE, TUESDAY, MARCH 13th.
TOWN BOARD ELECTION AND

Saturday & Sunday, May 19 & 20, 2007

Lake Street, Wayzata

The 4th annual Wayzata Art Experience, presented by the Greater Wayzata Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Lake Street between Broadway and Walker Avenue, featuring the finest in regional talent, food and live music. The event will showcase an assortment of visual, culinary and performing arts.  The Chamber of Commerce looks forward to kicking off the outdoor art festival season.  Open to art lovers of all ages.

The City is accepting applications for paid, on-call firefighters from interested men and women who live within 8 minutes of either of the two fire stations, which are located at 3595 Arcade Street (South Fire Station) and 665 East County Road F (North Fire Station).

Additional information may be obtained by calling 651.204.6030.

By the end of 2008 the City of