Shakopee

Council will switch to more informal routine

The City Council in Shakopee is giving itself more time to think and less to act.

Starting Feb. 4, it will cut down from two "business meetings" per month to one — meaning sessions when it takes action on things.

The first meeting of the month, on the first Tuesday, will become an informal workshop, though it will still be televised to allow easy public access, unlike some cities.

The second one, on the third Tuesday, will be the regular business meeting.

The city wanted to allow more time for "in-depth policy discussions and meetings with other governmental bodies," a city announcement said.

Scott County

Chinese New Year for kids in Shakopee

There's a Chinese New Year event for kids at the Scott County Historical Society this month.

There will be storytelling and crafts to take home on Jan. 25 from 1 to 1:45 p.m. — a time change from normal Kids Kraft.

It's free, but registration is required: Call 952-445-0378 or e-mail info@scottcountyhistory.org. It's aimed at kids from 4 to 8.

The society is at 235 Fuller St. S., Shakopee.

Libraries to host classes on social media

Scott County libraries will be the site this winter of classes teaching you tricks of social media. The Twin Cities Media Alliance is presenting the free classes.

Among the upcoming classes:

• "Social Media Speed Dating," March 18 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Savage Library, 13090 Alabama Av. S. Introduction to Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, MySpace, Google+, DeviantArt, LiveJournal, Tagged and Orkut. Bring your smartphone, tablet or laptop if you have one.

• "Become a LinkedIn Power User," March 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Jordan Library, 275 Creek Lane S. How to set up an accurate profile, discover new contacts and participate in groups. Bring your own device.

• "There's an App for That," April 1 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Prior Lake Library, 16210 Eagle Creek Av. SE. Which apps should be loaded on your smartphone or ­tablet to improve productivity. How to use and organize them.

• "Twitter 101," April 8 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Shakopee Library, 235 Lewis St. S. How to use tweets to connect with friends, colleagues and potential customers.

Prior Lake

Valentine's Day fun coming up at City Hall

A "Tot & Me" activity will mark Valentine's Day in Prior Lake. Cookie decorating, cardmaking and a photo with your valentine are among the offerings.

The event is actually Thursday, Feb. 13, from 10 to 11 a.m. at City Hall.

Any child is welcome with an adult aged 18 or over. The cost is $7, or $12 for nonresidents, for one child and one adult.

Staff reports