North town briefs

Minnesota photographer and author Doug Ohman will show pictures of historic Minnesota sites and buildings in a presentation called "Vanishing Landmarks" at the Rum River Library on Feb. 22.

The free event, beginning at 2 p.m., is sponsored by Friends of the Anoka County Library. Ohman will share stories and historical tidbits about some of Minnesota's most treasured buildings. He is a self-taught photographer whose books include "Schoolhouses of Minnesota" and "Cabins of Minnesota."

For more information, check the library's website at www.anoka.lib.mn.us.

Order bare-root trees from city program for May delivery Preorders are open for the city's ninth annual Bare Root Tree Sale. Blaine residents can order trees, to be delivered May 9 to the Blaine Public Works facility, by contacting city forester Marc Shippee at 763-785-6178 or at mshippee@ci.blaine.mn.us. Available trees include Autumn Blaze maple, Northfire maple, Niobe Weeping Willow, Hydrangea PeeGee tree or Redmond Linden. Prices range from $16.75 to $44.95. For more information and photos of the available trees, click on the Arbor Day graphic on the city website, www.ci.blaine.mn.us.

Neighborhood meetings begin The city has embarked on the 2009 series of neighborhood meetings. Residents are invited to a discussion about community issues, including the proposed Cook Arena/community center, the city's 50th anniversary celebration, and budget and safety issues. All meetings are 6:30-8:30 p.m., in the City Council chambers, 11155 Robinson Dr. NW. Meetings are scheduled for Feb. 18 and 23 and March 9, 16 and 18. Call 763-767-6493 with questions.

Unity Hospital forum explores genes, cancer Learn about genetics and cancer at an upcoming Unity Hospital forum: "Hereditary Cancer: Are You at Risk?"

The free forum will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Feb. 19, in the Unity Hospital Auditorium, 550 Osborne Road NE., Fridley.

Unity Cancer Center genetic counselor Denise Marty will speak on hereditary risks for a variety of cancers. Participants will be able to explore their personal predisposition to cancer. The forum will conclude with a question-and-answer session. To register, call the Unity Hospital Cancer Resource Center at 763-236-4040.

Today is deadline for joining commission The deadline is 4:30 p.m. today if you're interested in applying to serve on the city's Planning Commission.

The commission reviews, holds hearings and makes recommendations to the City Council on growth and development issues in the city. The commission meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month in City Hall. Letters of interest must be received at City Hall, 15544 Central Av. NE., Ham Lake.

Honor a Valentine with a tree purchase Tree lovers can purchase a tree that will be planted in a park in Ramsey or Dakota Counties, or the cities of Apple Valley, Arden Hills, Blaine, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Cottage Grove, Eagan, Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Little Canada, Maplewood, Mendota Heights, North St. Paul, Roseville, St. Paul, St. Louis Park, Shoreview, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Township or Woodbury. As part of your $75 purchase in the Valentine's Day Memorial/Tribute Trees program, administered by Friends of the Parks and Trails, park staff will plant the tree in the participating park of your choice; a Valentine will be sent to the honoree. For more information, and an online order form, go to www.friendsofthe parks.org, or call 651-698-4543.

Nominate an outstanding citizen The city is accepting nominations for the 2008 Citizenship Award to recognize Mounds View residents, business or land owners, elected officials, city employees or contractors who have made significant contributions toward improving the community. The deadline for nominations is 4:30 p.m., March 20. For more information, or to print out a nomination form, go to the city website, www.ci.mounds-view.mn.us or call Desaree Crane, at 763-717-4016.

City commissions with open seats this year include the Economic Development Authority, Environmental Policy Board, Park and Recreation Commission, Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment and the Public Safety Committee.

Advisory commissions make specific recommendations to the City Council on current issues facing the city.

New members will begin serving in early 2009 and terms usually last four years. Meetings are generally held once per month at the Ramsey Municipal Center. Most advisory commission members are paid a stipend of $25 per meeting.

The first review of applications is scheduled for Feb. 20. To be considered, submit an application by that date to Human Resources at the Ramsey Municipal Center, 7550 Sunwood Drive NW., 55303.

Visit the city's website at www.ci.ramsey.mn.us and click on "Advisory Commissions" to view information on the vacancies or to print or complete an application online. You may also call Human Resources at 763-576-4301 for more information or to receive an application.