Saturday, December 31, 2011

Spend New Years Watching The... Carp Drop?



Yes, you could spend new years celebrating the way millions do, by watching the Times Square ball drop, or you celebrate by watching a fish drop! You read that right! One of our staffers found this humorous compendium of odd traditions that communities throughout the country use to ring in the new year! Check it out here!

While you chuckle over these traditions, know that the staff at Salem Green Apartments wishes you a Happy New Year and that 2012 will be a great year for you!

Friday, December 30, 2011

New Years Events Plus Resolutions From The Staff

New Years Eve is tomorrow and we have a lot to share with you today! First, there are some events coming up for you to celebrate the new year. Plus we'll share with you some resolutions of our staff members at Salem Green Apartments. 

Family New Year's Eve Party
Celebrate the end of 2011 and the start of 2012 with your family at Veterans Memorial Community Center! Swim in our water park to the tunes of a DJ, ice skate, play bingo and make some cool crafts! Do an early countdown in to the new year!
Saturday, December 31
Noon-3:30 p.m. VMCC
Cost: $20 per family (up to 4 people) $8 per additional person or for individuals.

Minnesota Children’s Museum
Minnesota Children's Museum is holding a New Year's Sparkle-rama from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, December 31. 10 W. 7th St, St. Paul 55102. 651-225-6000.

Mall of America
The Mall of America, is hosting a “Rock the Universe” party from 6 p.m. to midnight at Nickelodeon Universe.

There will be festivities in several parks:
  • Rice Park in St. Paul (11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday) Corner of West 5th and Market St., St. Paul.
  • Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan (5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday) 860 Cliff Rd., Eagan 55123.
  • Fort Snelling State Park (3 to 9 p.m. on Saturday). 101 Snelling Lake Rd., St. Paul 55111.
Salem Green Staff New Year's Resolutions:
This year we took a survey of our staff to hear about their New Years Resolutions.
Tim: Quit smoking and come into the office with a smile every day, whine & complain less.
Tom: Lose weight, smile more.
Eric: To be more humble.
Janelle: To avoid eating all the goodies we get in the office!
Mindy: To make sure all of my projects are done on time.
Christine: Take more things into my own hands.
Jamie: Learn to love on-call!!!
Daniel: To teach the office ladies how to speak Spanish.
Myrna: Keep the building in top shape and hopefully move up in company!
Huettl: To make my building more beautiful.
Tate: To be more energized and eat healthier!

Let us know what your New Years Resolution is! Stop in the office and let us know and we'll take your picture and put you on the blog!

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Happy Holidays From The Salem Staff!

Holiday Cheer! We had a few of our staff members and residents pose in our cute little reindeer headband and Santa hat. Happy Holidays from all the staff at Salem Green Apartments!
Sara & Riana
Daniel
Chilli 
               

Vanessa
Janelle & Adrianna
Eric

Friday, December 23, 2011

Holiday Shopping At Local Shops

Are you doing some last minute shopping and looking for some unique, close-by novelty shops? Support your local community and shop at The Village at Mendota Heights off Dodd Road and Hwy 110. Check out the unique shops for your seasonal shopping for that hard-to-shop-for person!

At The Wine Market you will enjoy the experience of wine & spirits shopping in a whole new way. You will enjoy no cluttered aisles, no blinding lights, and no wine snobs. Take your time and shop for your wine and spirits just the way it should be, relaxed and unhurried.

Right next door to The Wine Market is Perfect Polished Nails. Stop in for a gift certificate of a manicure or pedicure, and then treat yourself to one too! They also offer nail extensions, nail repair and much more.

Around the corner is Mainstream Boutique. This Boutique is a perfect place to find that out-of-the-ordinary gift, but at affordable prices. Mainstream Boutique is an exciting retail and fashion franchise concept that sells some of the fashion world's most unique clothing and accessories. You can shop for gifts for everyone of all ages and all sizes.

Next on your list for that hard to shop relative is The Olive Grove. The Olive Grove carries the freshest and finest 100% extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar and specialty oils from award-winning producers around the world. At The Olive Grove, you taste before you buy. Watch as your selection is bottled and sealed fresh on the spot, ensuring you leave with a product that won’t disappoint.

Roe Wolfe is a new boutique that opened recently. Roe Wolfe is a perfect place to find great gifts for your friend who likes the boho and vintage style clothing. They have clothing, hosiery, heels, boots and accessories. While you are there you can get a makeover with their Becca cosmetic line, and test out their two fragrance lines!

After you are done with your shopping take time to rest your feet at Tommy Chicago’s. Enjoy their signature pizzas or delicious calzones. Tommy Chicago’s is open Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

And finally, stop by Eyes of Mendota to say 'hi' to Gina while you pick out your new pair of eye or sunglasses. Eyes of Mendota is located at 740 Main Street. Mention you saw Gina on our blog and receive 10% off your next purchase of eye or sunglasses!

Mention this blog post to Gina and receive a 10% discount at Eyes of Mendota!

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Tis The Season For Package Deliveries!

Christmas is almost here and lots of deliveries are stacking up in our package closet. Wonder who's making all these deliveries? Well, it's not Santa! Some of them are delivered by Tim our UPS guy! Tim has been with UPS for more than 15 years and delivering to us for the same!

Tim delivers UPS packages to Salem Green Apartments.

Don’t worry if you’re not home, he’ll deliver your packages safely to the office for you to pick up or the office staff will be happy to deliver it to your apartment!

Ice, ice, maybe?

Have you been enjoying the unseasonable warm weather this season? The DNR wants to make sure you are safe this winter season with these great tips when you’re on the ice! 

  • Many ice drownings involve children. When your child is near the ice, you should be near your child. Our apartment homes are near water, please talk with your children about the dangers of thin ice and advise then that the safest practice is to simply stay off the ice.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages when you’re on the ice. They can make you feel colder and slow down your reaction time in case of an ice emergency.
  • Carry two large nails to use as ice picks to pull yourself out if you fall through thin ice.
  • Never drive on the ice at night.
  • Avoid pressure ridges, and areas with current if you do choose to drive on the ice.
  • Drive with your windows down and doors partially open to avoid becoming trapped if your car breaks through.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Hooray! The days are getting longer - Winter Solstice is tonight!

Put on your sunglasses! Tonight is the Winter Solstice and that means the days will start getting longer. More sunlight in the day is certain to make spirits bright!

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Today begins the first of many religious and cultural festivals during December.

December is a month packed with holidays for many religious and cultural traditions. To remind us of some of these traditional celebrations one of our staffers, Kambra, has put together this wonderful summary of some of the larger celebrations that begin in December.

History of Hanukkah: Sundown Dec. 20th - Dec. 28th



The events that inspired the Hanukkah holiday took place during a particularly turbulent period of Jewish history. Ancient sources recount that Antiochus IV, the Seleucid king of Syria, outlawed the Jewish religion and ordered the Jews to worship Greek gods. In 168 B.C., his soldiers descended upon Jerusalem, massacring thousands of people and desecrating the city’s holy Second Temple by erecting an altar to Zeus and sacrificing pigs within its sacred walls.

A large-scale rebellion broke out against Antiochus and the Seleucid monarchy. Eventually the Jews successfully drove the Syrians out of Jerusalem. The Jews then set out to cleanse the Second Temple, rebuild its altar and light its menorah—the gold candelabrum whose seven branches represented knowledge and creation and were meant to be kept burning every night.

The Hanukkah "Miracle"
According to the Talmud, one of Judaism’s central texts, Judah Maccabee and the other Jews who took part in the re-dedication of the Second Temple witnessed what they believed to be a miracle. Even though there was only enough untainted olive oil to keep the menorah’s candles burning for a single day, the flames continued flickering for eight nights, leaving them time to find a fresh supply. This wondrous event inspired the Jewish leaders to proclaim a yearly eight-day festival.

Interesting Facts about Hanukkah
  • Traditional Hanukkah food is cooked during the festival with oil as the key ingredient. Jelly donuts, fried potatoes, pancakes and deep fried puffs are the most common foods served during the festival.
  • Gift giving is another popular Hanukkah tradition. The Jewish children receive small gifts from their elder family members on Hanukkah.

History of Christmas: December 25


Christmas is an annual holiday celebrated on December 25th by billions of people around the world. It is a Christian feast that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Christians believe that an angel appeared before a virgin (Mary) and foretold her conceiving a son, not from her fiance’ Joseph, but conceived of the Holy Spirit (God). The angel told her she was to name the boy Jesus. Jesus would come to be called the son of God. Jesus’ story is detailed in the Bible recounting many miracles he preformed from healing people with diseases, feeding 5,000 people with only 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread and even raising the dead.

One cannot talk about the history of Christmas without mentioning Santa Claus. Bishop Nicholas of Smyrna, who lived in the 4th century A.D. in what is known today as Turkey, was a very wealthy and generous man, who especially loved children. He was known to throw gifts into the houses of poor children in order to brighten their spirits. He was later titled Saint Nicholas, and became the patron saint of children and seafarers. From his story evolved into the legend of Santa Claus – the jolly man who brings gifts to children all over the world on Christmas Eve.


Fun Facts about Christmas:
  • Most of Santa’s reindeer have male-sounding names, such as Blitzer, Comet, and Cupid. However, male reindeer shed their antlers around Christmas, so the reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh are likely not male, but female.
  • Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850, the trees are usually grown for about 15 years before they are sold.
  • Mistletoe (Viscum album) is from the Anglo-Saxon word misteltan, which means “little dung twig” because the plant spreads though bird droppings.

History of Kwanzaa: December 26- January 1


Kwanzaa is a fairly new holiday that was first celebrated in December 1966 in the midst of the Black Freedom Movement and thus reflects its concern for cultural preservation. Kwanzaa was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor of Africana Studies at California State University, Long Beach until 2002. He is an author and scholar-activist who stresses the indispensable need to preserve, continually revitalize and promote African American culture.

The name for Kwanzaa comes from a Swahili phrase meaning first fruits. The first-fruits celebrations are recorded in African history as far back as ancient Egypt and Nubia. Kwanzaa builds on the five fundamental activities of Continental African "first fruit" celebrations: in gathering; reverence; commemoration; re-commitment; and celebration.

There are seven values that are emphasized during Kwanzaa, they are: Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith. Kwanzaa culminates in a big feast on the last evening of the holiday, on December 31 called Karamu; it is celebrated with festive songs, dance, toasts, prayers, and a feast of foods.

Interesting facts about Kwanzaa
  • The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green as noted above and can be utilized in decorations for Kwanzaa. Also decorations should include traditional African items, i.e., African baskets, cloth patterns, art objects, harvest symbols, etc.
  • Kwanzaa can be celebrated by anyone. Kwanzaa is the holiday to remember African-American cultures.
  • Gifts are given mainly to children, but must always include a book and a heritage symbol.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Spotlight on a Salem Resident: Katrina!

For this month's spotlight on a resident, we'd like to introduce you to one of our residents, Katrina.
Katrina has lived at Salem Green since 2006. She has participated in the Special Olympics for several years and enjoys participating in the sports of hockey, track and softball. Her passion is helping people and Katrina has volunteered at a hospital, her church, and the American Cancer Society. She enjoys being in the right place at the right time, helping out where ever she is needed! Her favorite thing about living at Salem Green is meeting other residents and swinging at the playground.

Thanks for sharing your smiles with everyone at Salem Green, Katrina!

Katrina has lived at Salem Green Apartments since 2006.
 

Friday, December 16, 2011

Where does the time go!? Spotlight on Janelle, our longest serving employee!

Every so often we like to give mention to the people who help make this apartment community great. Today we want to put the spotlight on Janelle, who has the distinction of being our current longest serving employee at Salem Green Apartments! Janelle has been with us since 1998 and has been making residents feel welcome in their home at Salem Green the whole time.

Before she came to Salem Green Apartments Janelle was a nanny in various parts of the country, as well as a leasing agent at other properties. Janelle began with our community as a Leasing Consultant and is now our Assistant Manager. One of her favorite things (which is probably what makes her so darn good at her job!) is meeting new people. From residents to co-workers, Janelle is always making people feel welcome, and she enjoys all the fun events we have for our residents.

Janelle loves meeting new people!

Next time you stop in the office say hello to Janelle and thank her for her many years of service!

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Tis the season for giving. Foodshelves can use your generosity.

Giving to the Second Harvest Heartland is a powerful way make a difference in the lives of working families, children and seniors in our community who are at risk of missing a meal today. Located at in St. Paul at 1140 Gervais Avenue, you can make a gift of any single food item or give a gift basket. Whichever you choose, your gift will truly make this holiday season brighter for those in need. You can stop by Second Harvest Heartland to make your donation between the hours of 7:30 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. 

It's giving like this that makes the holidays bright! 


Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Oh sNOw! The Snow is coming!

We have been lucky lately with the light amount of snow that we have received, but unfortunately it will not last.  Here's some pictures from previous seasons to remind us of the aftermath of snow in the parking lot! 
Auto or Snow-mobile?

Definitely need a shovel for these.

The windows are a bit more than frosted over!

Now that we recall the hazard of snow and have seen some funny pictures that we can be thankful are not we're not in, a reminder is in order before we get another major snow storm!

Salem Green Apartments would like to remind you that we do not allow non-motorized, non-moving, non-operable or unlicensed vehicles to be parked in the lots.  All vehicles must be moved on a regular basis to allow for necessary snow removal. 
Vehicles that are in violation of this Community Policy are subject to be towed at the vehicle owner’s expense.

When the way is clear for a nicely plowed parking lot, we'll all have no trouble merrily saying "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!"

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Dessert Night 2011 a Sweet Success

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate Dessert Night last week. It was great to see so many of our wonderful residents!

So many scrumptious desserts!

JR is excited to eat this huge cupcake

Larry and Marlene enjoying themselves at Dessert Night

The party room looks so festive and beautiful this time of year

Our community manager Mindy and Jaxon at Dessert Night
 Thanks again to everyone for making Dessert Night a "sweet success!" We look forward to seeing you there again next year!

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

A Season for Sharing in Fire Safety

 A Season for Sharing in Fire Safety

Each year fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of over 400 people, injure 1,650 more, and cause over $990 million in damage. According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA), there are simple life-saving steps you can take to ensure a safe and happy holiday. By following some of the outlined precautionary tips, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty.

Holiday Lights

  • Maintain Your Holiday Lights
    Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory.
  • Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets
    Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch.
  • Do Not Leave Holiday Lights on Unattended

Holiday Decorations

  • Use Only Nonflammable Decorations
    All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents.
  • Never Put Wrapping Paper in a Fireplace
    It can result in a very large fire, throwing off dangerous sparks and embers, and may result in a chimney fire.
  • Artificial Christmas Trees
    If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant.

Candle Care

  • Avoid Using Lit Candles
    If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning.
  • Never Put Lit Candles on a Tree
    Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame - candles, lighters or matches.
Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed throughout your home, test them monthly, and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.
Kitchen
During the holidays much time is spent cooking, so it’s critical to take precautions in the kitchen. Be sure to keep pot handles and electrical appliance cords out of the reach of children. Put a lid on a pot or pan to extinguish a food or grease fire - never use water, and in the event of an oven fire, turn off the heat and close the oven door. Avoid wearing loose or baggy clothing, and always use potholders while working in the kitchen.
Information provided by www.usfa.fema.gov


Friday, December 2, 2011

Remember to RSVP for Dessert Night

Last Day to RSVP for Dessert Night!

This is the perfect time of year to express how grateful we are that you choose to make Salem Green your home. To show you our appreciation, we’d love for you to join us for a night of delicious desserts and great conversation with your neighbors.

Dessert Night
Monday, December 5
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Party Room

Please call or email the Rental Office to RSVP by the end of the day today. We look forward to seeing you there!