Editorial: 'U' wisely reaches out to stadium neighbors

Last update: June 29, 2008 - 11:16 AM

Plunk a big, new traffic-producing anything into an established neighborhood, and local resentment and resistance are almost sure to ensue. That is, unless the wise example of the University of Minnesota is followed.

Financing for the new TCF Bank Stadium includes a $1.5 millon endowment called the Good Neighbor Fund.

It has begun making grants to neighborhood businesses and organizations "to protect and enhance the beauty, serenity and security of the neighborhoods and business districts" near the rapidly rising new football behemoth. Seven grants totaling $69,000 were announced this week. The largest -- $30,000 -- went to the Southeast Como Improvement Association for research on how communities near large university campuses stay livable.

Adult supervision key

With summer weather finally arriving in Minnesota, it's tempting to pick up one of those sturdy new inflatable pools widely available at big discount stores. They're relatively inexpensive and keep kids entertained for hours.

But a new report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission should give pause to pool-owning parents. The number of children younger than 5 who die in pools and spas is rising. Safety experts believe that's linked to the growing use of backyard inflatable pools. One reason: They're often unfenced. Extra care and heightened supervision are in order, especially when little ones are around.

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