The Burnsville Police Department will have extra squad cars patrolling the streets Thursday to raise awareness and educate drivers about the dangers of distracted driving. Most people think of texting and driving when they think about distracted driving, but it actually includes any activity — eating, playing with the radio, applying makeup — that takes a driver's attention off the road.
Minnesota law says no driver can use a wireless device to write, read or send a message while driving or while stopped at a stop sign or stop light.
Nominations sought for lighting contest
Burnsville residents have until Friday to nominate single-family homes, neighborhoods and apartment, condo or townhouse complexes in the city's fourth annual winter lighting contest.
The nominations will be reviewed by the Burnsville Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the top three entries in each category will receive prizes.
To qualify, nominees must be within the Burnsville city limits and be visible from the street. A nominee can win first prize for only three consecutive years. To make nominations, you must be 21 or older, complete a nomination form and include a photo.
Winners will be announced at the Dec. 22 City Council meeting. For more information, call 952-895-4690.
NORTHFIELD
Remembrance tree honors loved ones
The tree in the courtyard of Northfield Hospital has been dubbed the "Tree of Remembrance," and the public can sponsor a single light for $10 or a string of lights for $100 to remember a loved one who has died.
All the money raised goes to the Northfield Hospice.
A lighting ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the hospital at 2000 North Av. Refreshments will be served. Music will be provided by the Northfield Youth Choir. RSVPs are encouraged; call 1-507-646-1457.
