Go Play! There Are Some Great Parks Near Salem Green!

This Labor Day weekend looks like it's going to have some really great weather. Have you made any plans to get outdoors? Here's a list of some great parks that are close to Salem Green Apartments. Get out and explore and have a great time. Take advantage of Salem Green's great location and access to so many wonderful outdoor spaces.

Lion’s Parks
2423 65th St. E, Inver Grove Heights, MN
This park is one of the top fishing areas in Inver Grove Heights. Relax on the fishing pier or play on the playground. You can also get your friends together at the picnic shelter for some food and a game of horseshoes.

Arbor Pointe Park
8545 Cahill Avenue, Inver Grove Heights, MN
This is a great 4 acre park with a playground and over 1800 feet of paved trails for walking, biking or running. Trail Map: http://www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us/DocumentCenter/Home/View/82

Broadmoor Park
11306 Stratford Lane, Inver Grove Heights, MN
Amenities include both paved and non-paved trails as well as a playground.

Ernster Park
7750 Dickman Trail, Inver Grove Heights, MN
Ernster Park has something everyone will enjoy. This 5 acre park has everything you need for a day of outdoor fun. This park includes a playground, picnic tables, baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, sand volleyball court and horseshoe pit.

Groveland Park

Groveland Park
1990 46th St., Inver Grove Heights, MN
Groveland Park is a fun neighborhood park that has a variation of sports fields. There is also a picnic shelter that holds up to 20 people and can be reserved in four hour time blocks. The shelter would be great for an outdoor birthday party or a family reunion.

Groveland Park also has a playground, baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a hockey rink.

Salem Hills Park & Harmon Park Reserve

Harmon Park Reserve/Salem Hills Park
1642 Upper 55th Street East, Inver Grove Heights, MN
This beautiful 43 acre park is filled with 1,812 feet of natural trails. The reserve also has 22,294 feet of mountain biking trails.

Salem Hills Park is a neighborhood park near Salem Hills elementary school. The park has 41 acres of land, including a tree nursery. There is also a playground, baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts.

Marianna Ranch
9125 Alvarez Avenue, Inver Grove Heights, MN
This beautiful area includes 64 acres of conserved land and 9,681 feet of paved trails.

McGroarty Park
County Road 18 and Blaine Avenue, Inver Grove Heights, MN
This is a beautiful open park with access for fishing.

North Valley Park

North Valley Park
2800 70th St. East, Inver Grove Heights, MN
North Valley Park is a gorgeous 58 acres of wooded area in the heart of Inver Grove Heights. This park also includes a disc golf course, baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, picnic tables, a grill and trails.

Oakwood Park
3534 78th St. East, Inver Grove Heights, MN
This park has something for everyone. This park has a picnic shelter with indoor restrooms and a grill that can be rented. There are also a playground, three baseball and softball fields, lighted tennis courts, and a skating rink.

Seidl’s Lake
2655 47th St. East, Inver Grove Heights, MN
Seidl’s Lake Park has 26 acres of land with fishing and playing! This park also includes paved trails, fishing and a playground.

Oakwood Park

Skyview Park
6765 Dawn Avenue (69th and Dawn Avenue) Inver Grove Heights, MN
Skyview Park has all of the facilities you need! This eight acres park has a playground, baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, lighted tennis courts, a lighted skating rink and more.

Sleepy Hollow Park
3645 84th St. East, Inver Grove Heights, MN
This park is full of fun activities. Sleepy Hollow Park has a playground, basketball court, horseshoe pit and a sand volleyball court.

South Valley Park
2810 70th Street (70th Street and Cahill), Inver Grove Heights, MN
South Valley Park has a large hill to sled down in the snowy winter months or you can enjoy a picnic in the warmer sunny months. This park also has a playground and multiple ball fields.

Southern Lakes Park
10810 Alison Way, Inver Grove Heights, MN
Southern Lakes Parks is a great neighborhood park that has a playground and baseball fields.

Stay Cool In The Pool!

Due to the very warm weather we've been experiencing, we have decided to keep the pool open one more week, until Monday, September 9th. Typically our pool season ends right after Labor Day. Enjoy the extra time to play in the pool!

With temperatures being as hot as they are, jumping in the pool one last time might just be the best way to cool down.

Stay cool and have fun. Hope to see you there!

Look Who’s Going to the State Fair…

Congratulations to Bethany, who won our drawing for two Minnesota State Fair tickets, a bargain book and $20 spending money. Bethany said she can’t wait to have a pronto pup, one of her favorite fair foods!

Have fun at the “Great Minnesota Get Together”! Thank you to everyone who shared what they liked most about the Minnesota State Fair. Make sure you continue to check the Salem Green Facebook page and blog for more fun events and contests.

Congrats Bethany! Enjoy your trip to the Fair!

Are You Ready For The First Day of School?

The last minutes of summer are ticking away and it’s already that time of year - the countdown has begun to head back to school. The first day of school day for Inver Grove Heights public schools is Tuesday, September 3rd.

As the new school year approaches we know that with it comes every possible reaction for kids and parents: excitement, nervousness, annoyance and complete and utter dismay that summer has come to an end. So the staff here at Salem Green want to try and make it something to look forward to rather than something to dread. 

As the school bus arrives to Salem Green to drop the children off at the end of day for the first day of school we will be waiting at the bus stop with juice boxes and treats!

We also want to give you some tips for the first day back to school to help prepare for the big day:

• Remember, the bus stop is by the Recreation Center. This is where the children will be picked up and dropped off.

• Get Ready: Don’t underestimate the fun and importance of new stuff for the big day. Here is a link of all of the school supply lists for the Inver Grove Heights ISD #199 community schools: http://www.invergrove.k12.mn.us/supplylists.html

• Remember Routines: Before school starts, focus on sleep schedules, exercise, healthy foods and quality time together. This will make the transition for crazy summer schedules back to school schedules, much easier. 

• Show Them the Way: If this is your child’s first day at a new school, show your child their new classroom, what entrance and exit to use and where everything is located at throughout the school. If they are taking the bus, explain how to get on and off the bus safely.

• Talk, Talk, Talk: Try to think of all the positive things and talk about them as much as possible. This will get them excited for all the great experience that are about to come.

• Be Organized: A good way to ease back-to-school anxiety by being prepared. Help your child lay out their first day school outfit and pack their backpack the night before. Be sure to include a healthy lunch and a snack.

From all of us here at Salem Green, we wish you good luck on the first day of school and hope it's a good day!

Welcome Your New Neighbors To Salem Green!

Recently we had two different move-ins. Please join us in welcoming Ana and JC to our community here at Salem Green! We're excited to have them around.

JC actually comes to us through a referral. He was told about Salem Green by another happy resident and decided to rent an apartment here. The referring resident is going to get a $500.00 rent credit for one month just for telling JC how great it is to live at Salem Green!

Remember, you can earn a referral bonus too, by referring your co-workers, friends, family, or anyone you know to Salem Green. If they end up renting at Salem Green you'll receive $500.00 off one month's rent!

Welcome to Salem Green, Ana!

Val handing JC the keys to his new home at Salem Green.

What A Weekend - Plenty Of Fun Things To Do Around Here!

We have quite a weekend ahead of us. It looks like it's going to be beautiful weather and there are plenty of great events happening locally and in the region where you could go find some fun! Below you'll find our list of ideas for this weekend.

Painting Class with Promising Palette
Saturday, August 24, 2013 @ 1:30pm
At Fresh Grounds Coffee Shop, 1362 7th St. W., St. Paul, MN 55102
Phone: (651) 224-2348
Visit website to sign up for the class: www.promisingpalette.com
Cost: $35/seat

Block Party
Saturday, August 24, 2013 @12pm
Salem United Methodist Church
5590 Babcock Trail; Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
(651) 451-0639
Cost: FREE

Vali-Hi Drive In Theater
Three movies for the price of one!
Box Office Opens: Friday – Saturday 7pm;  Sunday 7:30pm
11260 Hudson Blvd. N., Lake Elmo, MN 55042
Phone: (651) 436-07464
Cost: $8.50 per person; Children 6 – 12 only $1; Kids 5 and under are FREE

Listen to Live Music at Jersey’s Bar & Grill
Artist: Westside Band
Saturday, August 24, 2013; Doors open at 7:30pm music starts at 9:45pm
6449 Concord Blvd E., Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
(651) 455-4561
Cost: Cover at the door is $8

Minnesota Renaissance Festival
12364 Chestnut Blvd., Shakopee, MN 55379
(952) 445-7361
Cost: General Admission (Adult) $18.95; General Admission (Child ages 5-12) $10.50

Minnesota State Fair
Check out our MN State Fair Guide blog post!

Freedom Jazz Festival
MLK Park, 4055 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55409
Phone: (612) 354-6529
Cost: FREE

And The Winner Of The Luau Gift Basket Is...

We have a winner! Congratulations to Tom, Shannon, Dawsin, and Chase who won the drawing for the Luau basket. We hope you enjoy all your goodies. Their entry was randomly selected from all those who attended our recent Luau and entered their apartment number into the contest. Thank you again to everyone who came to the Luau. We had a great time and we hope everyone enjoyed themselves.

Introducing Your New Neighbors Amy And Amber

Please join us in giving two of your newest neighbors a warm welcome to Salem Green - Amy and Amber recently moved to our apartment community.

We asked Amy and Amber why they decided to call Salem Green Apartments their new home and this is what they had to say:

"We chose Salem Green because it was affordable for our needs. Compared to other apartments we visited, Salem Green was the cleanest and has very friendly staff that was able to answer our many of questions."

Thanks for choosing, Salem Green, and welcome home Amy and Amber!

Here Comes The Heat - Time To Hit The Water Parks!

97 degrees next Wednesday? Time for some water park fun.

It seems like everyone is in agreement that this summer has been a bit cooler than normal, but next week we have a shot at some truly warm weather. We've put together a list of some great water parks where you can go splash and have fun. Of course, we always have our fantastic outdoor pool for you to enjoy as well!

The Grove Aquatic and Fitness Center
8055 Barbara Ave, Inver Grove Heights, MN
Phone: 651.450.2480
Hours: Daily 1:00 pm-7:30 pm

Cascade Bay
1360 Civic Center Drive, Eagan, MN
Visit website for hours and fees: http://www.cityofeagan.com/index.php/cascade-bay/hours-fees
Phone: 651.675.5577

Bloomington Family Aquatic Center
301 E. 90th St., Bloomington, MN
Monday - Friday: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday, holidays: 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

http://ci.bloomington.mn.us//main_top/2_facilities/rec_facility/bfac/bfac_facility.htm

Phone: 952.563.4634

Water Works
2401 Upper Afton Rd., Maplewood, MN 55109
Phone: 651.748.2500
Hours: Daily 11:00 am-8:00 pm

Como Regional Park Pool
1151 Como Ave., St. Paul, MN 55103
Phone: 651.489.0378
Hours: Saturday & Sunday 11:00 am-7:00 pm

Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12:00 pm-8:00 pm

Tuesday & Thursday 12:00 pm-8:00 pm

Highland Park Aquatic Center
1840 Edgecumbe Rd., St. Paul, MN
Phone: 651.695-3773
Hours:  Saturday & Sunday 11:00 am-7:00 pm
Monday – Friday 12:00 pm-8:00 pm

Follow these tips for a fun-filled day at the water park!

• If you want to avoid crowds, arrive early or a couple hours before the water park closes for the day. Also, weekends tend to be more crowded than weekdays, so try to plan a visit during the week.
• Check whether picnic areas are available outside the park. Many parks allow you to exit and re-enter if you want to enjoy a picnic. This is a great way to save a few bucks. 
• If your group splits up, be sure to have a set meeting place and time. 

What to bring: 

• Swimsuit
• Beach towel
• Sunscreen
• Swim shoes
• Plastic swim diapers for your little ones

Going To The Fair? Here's The Salem Green Guide To The Minnesota State Fair

The Minnesota State Fair is just nine days away and we're all getting excited about making our annual pilgrimage to the fairgrounds for some great food and entertainment. The festivities begin August 22 and run through September 2; read on for tips on free events at the Minnesota State Fair and how to purchase tickets and get there.

Minnesota State Fair Tickets Drawing

Now you have a chance to make your Minnesota State Fair experience a little cheaper - we are holding a name-drawing contest for two tickets to the Minnesota State Fair, plus a coupon Bargain Book for the fair, and $20.00 spending money to help you buy some yummy fair food! All you have to do to get your name into the drawing is leave a comment on this blog post or on our Facebook page about what you are looking forward to most about the Minnesota State Fair.

Free Activities

• Lumberjack Show at the North Woods Lumberjack Arena: Daily at 11 am, 1:30 pm, 5 pm and 7 pm
• 2 pm: Daily Parade
• Kemps Little Farm Hands Exhibit- kids can ride tractors, plant crops and milk cows
• “Flippenout” a high-energy trampoline/acrobatic show performing four times daily at the X-Zone
• Laser Light Show Nightly at 9:15 pm

Horse Shows at the Lee and Rose Warner Coliseum:

• English Horse Show: August 22-27
• Western Horse Show: August 30- September 2
• High School Rodeo: August 28-September 2

Leinie Lodge Bandshell Tonight Concerts at 8:30 pm:

• August 24 & 25: Blue Oyster Cult-known for their songs “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”, “Godzilla” and “Burnin’ for You”.
• August 26 & 27: Hanson-known for their song “MMMBop”

Buying Tickets And Getting There

Purchase tickets at Cub Foods

2001 South Robert Street
West St. Paul, MN 55118
(651) 451-2877

Make sure to check out Cub Foods or the State Fair website to get your tickets ahead of time at a discounted price. If you buy your tickets in advance they are $9 (reg. $12) and you can get the bargain book for $4 (reg. $5).

Metro Transit Shuttle Locations 
www.metrotransit.org/StateFair

Don’t feel like driving to the State Fair? Take the bus! For $5 you can park and ride Express Buses to the State Fair: buses run daily during the fair, from 8:00 am  to Midnight.

Here's the top 2 closest State Fair Park and Ride locations:

1. Signal Hills Shopping Center - Service every 30 minutes South Robert St. & Butler Ave. (near Kmart)

2. Eagan Transit Station - Every 30 minutes on weekends and Labor Day Yankee Doodle & Pilot Knob Rd at I-35E

Mahalo! Thanks For Coming To The Luau!

Our staff at Salem Green would like to say 'Mahalo' for coming and celebrating with us at the Luau! We had a great time visiting with all of you at our annual Resident Appreciation Pool Party this past Tuesday. We enjoyed seeing the community all together for this event and we hope you enjoyed the food and had a good time. The catered pig roast from 'Divine Swine' was heavenly!

Check out some photos from the event below, and visit our Facebook album for even more photos. While you there be sure to like our Facebook page, and if you have any photos from the luau, please share them with the rest of us! https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.671940692835235.1073741825.107033055992671&type=1

Infuse Your Summertime Sipping With Freshness

Last week the Salem Green staff delivered a gift of an infusion water tumbler to each apartment as a part of our Resident Appreciation events. We also included some recipe ideas for how to use the tumbler and give your summertime water sipping some extra freshness! Have you had a chance to try out your tumbler yet? If so, let us know what recipe you like best.

The tumbler is a great way to bring something to drink to the pool - after all it's made of plastic, which is allowed in the pool area, and not glass, which is not allowed. Try out a few recipes, or make up your own, and then share it with us on Facebook or in the comments section below!

Infusion Recipes

Step 1: Fill your infusion tumbler about 2/3 full with water, tea, juice, or carbonated water.

Step 2: Prepare your infusion ingredients and fill them into the slotted cup insert.

Step 3: Swirl and enjoy!

Here's some suggested infusion combinations:

Raspberry Lime Infusion

-8 to 10 raspberries

-1/2 of a lime

Cucumber Citrus Infusion

-1 lemon wedge

-1 lime wedge

-4 cucumber slices

Strawberry Basil Infusion

-3 to 4 strawberries, halved

-fresh basil leaves

Orange Pineapple Infusion

-4 to 5 pineapple chunks

-1 to 2 orange wedges

Summer Detox Infusion

-1 lemon wedge

-4 to 5 cucumber slices

-fresh mint leaves

Blackberry Lime Orange Infusion

-5 blackberries

-1 to 2 lime wedges

-1 orange wedge

August Should Make Your Mouth Water

August is a month for fun, really! August is National Family Fun Month. So, what are you going to do this month for fun? Here you can find some other fun holidays in August and we’ll share some suggestions for family fun this month.

August 3^rd – Watermelon Day

Watermelon Lime Frosty (or Margarita) -- makes 2
3 cups watermelon, cubed and frozen
1 ripe banana, peeled and frozen
2 tablespoons agave nectar or maple syrup
Zest from 2 limes
Juice from 2 limes (about 4 tablespoons)
1/2 cup waterBlend all ingredients until smooth, adding more water as needed to keep the mixture moving. For margaritas: add 3-4 shots of silver tequila. You may want to add more watermelon than called for to thicken this up, or to make the drink appear more pink.

August 10^th – S’mores Day

Did you know you can make S’mores in the oven?  Just take a baking sheet, line with foil, assemble s’mores without the top graham cracker and bake until marshmallows are soft and chocolate starts to melt (you have to watch these closely it doesn't take long at all) then just take out of the oven, top with the other graham cracker and enjoy!

August 31^st – Trail Mix Day

Plan a little fun activity with the kids or even a small family get-together and have a trail mix bar.  Everyone brings their own container to take home and they can create their own trail mix wither they want to indulge in the sweets or get a nice variety of healthy nuts and seeds to start their diet off right.

Minnesota State Fair- August 22-September 2

Prices: Adults (13-64): $12, Seniors (65 & over): $10, Kids (5-12): $10, Children (Under 5): Free!

It’s almost a requirement to be a good “Minnesotan” to attend the State Fair every year and don’t we love it!  Get ready for lots of fun, good entertainment and the food; oh the food, there’s nothing like it.

For more information visit: www.mnstatefair.org