Macaroni Kid
Coon Rapids - Blaine - Andover
Macaroni Kid  
National > Coon Rapids - Blaine - Andover Home
Subscribe to newsletter
Published on
May 17, 2012
Macaroni Deals
Macaroni Kid
National
Connect
Michelle's Blog
Local

In This Edition

What you will find in today's Macaroni Kid

Proudly serving the communities of Coon Rapids, Blaine, Andover, Mounds View, Fridley, Spring Lake Park, New Brighton, Circle Pines, Lino Lakes, Lexington and Centerville. 

**Click here to view our complete newsletter!!**

Are you following us on facebook?  Latest updates, contest reminders and facebook only contests are posted on our facebook site, so make sure to "like" us today! We are currently giving away advanced screening tickets for The Three Stooges on facebook right now while supplies last!  Like us here!

Remember to visit national.macaronikid.com and choose the drop down list to see which other MN communities have a Mac Kid for you.  There are many Macaroni Kid communities across the metro!   And across the Nation!  Don't forget to tell your family and friends about Macaroni Kid, we count on our loyal subscribers to help us spread the Macaroni Love!  If you're going on a vacation, check out a Mac Kid in that area to find great things to do with the kids while there!

Also don't forget to check the calendar tab at the top of our page for a monthly view of all events and activities.   Also, make sure to use that "My Macaroni" feature to print a great list of just the events that you will be attending for the week!  Makes a great list to print out and put on the fridge.

Do you know of an upcoming event that you'd like us to add?  Submit an event HERE!    

  • Piccadilly Circus is in Town
  • 2012 Healthy Living Race - Early Bird Discount!
  • Summer Reading
  • Family Getaway Guide - Plan the Perfect Family Getaway
  • YMCA Twin Cities Camps
  • Garage Sale Listings
  • Macaroni Kid Featured Summer Camps
  • This Week's Picks
  • This week's Calendar
  • Teen Scene
  • Plan Ahead
  • Summer is Right Around the Corner - Is Your Yard Ready?
  • Timeless Family Classics on DVD
  • Wildlife Weekend
  • It's Bug Season!
  • Contact Me
  • Sponsors

Piccadilly Circus is in Town!

May 18th - 20th at the Aldrich Arena in Maplewood

The Piccadilly Circus is coming to Maplewood this weekend! From May 18th - 20th Aldrich Arena will be full of  families gearing up to see whats in store! 


The Piccadilly Circus has been entertaining familes for 25 years now so they know exactly what the crowd wants! They're ready to make your jaw drop and heart beat with excitement as you watch the variety throughout the show! Clowns, White Tiger Spectacular, Contortionists, and of course no circus would be complete without the ever so popular Elephant Extravaganza! Meet Katunga, the ...

2012 Healthy Living Race

Pre-Register by May 20th for a Discount!

Get the family out for a day of charity and family fun!  The Healthy Living Race is much more than a race.  In fact, you don't even have to run.  It is a 5K Walk/Run or 1-mile Family Dash so you can choose to do whichever works best for your skill level.  Mostly just have fun!  There will also be an Inflatable Jump Castle, Face Painting, Andover Fire Department, Sponsor Booths and much more.  

The Healthy Living Race is a fundraising event produced by Essentials of Life Chiropractic ...

Summer Reading

Keep Your Child's Literacy Skills Sharp

Summertime is a great opportunity for adults to inspire children to read.  Reading and having books read to them can ignite a child’s intellectual curiosity.  Kids develop valuable language skills, learn how to tell stories, and gain knowledge about the world through reading.  Children are becoming transliterate; capable of reading, writing, and interacting with media across a range of platforms.  The most effective base to successfully building these skills is still the old chestnut, reading books.

Reading during the summer months is a great way to keep your child ...

Family Getaway Guide

Plan the Perfect Family Getaway with these Macaroni Kid Approved Places

Now's the time to plan the Perfect Family Getaway and Macaroni Kid can Help! 

We've put together a Family Getaway Guide with Macaroni Kid Approved Vacation Places! You don't need to go far to find a place to relax, play and have some fun with the family! Whether your looking for fishing, hiking, biking, or even a waterpark - we have the perfect places for you! 

Go ahead, you deserve it! Dedicate a weekend or even a full week to spending some family time away from home! And ...

YMCA Twin Cities

Day Camps, Overnight Camps & Teen Wilderness Camps

THE Y CAMP EXPERIENCE

At the Y, we believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Y camps share one thing: DISCOVERY. Campers have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course, camp is fun too!

Our commitment to nurturing the potential of children and teens, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility come alive at YMCA camps. For over 125 years, our camps ...


Garage Sale Listings

Advertise Your Sale Here to Thousands of Local Parents!

Are you planning a garage sale that will include kids' items (clothes, toys, games, books, anything to do with kids)? Then list your garage sale in  Macaroni Kid - Coon Rapids/Blaine/Andover, a publication that reaches more than 2,000 local parents each week!

Every week, I'll have an article that features area garage sales with the date, time, location, and general items that you'll be selling. If you're interested or have questions, email me at michellee@macaronikid.com with the subject "Garage Sale Listing"

It's ...


The Avengers Reviews

KIDS FIRST! Coming Attractions

Superheroes Rate Super Well as KIDS FIRST! Youth Film Critics Review 'The Avengers'

"Bam!" "Ka-Pow!" "Bonk!" – as they say in comic books. While that's not really what the superheroes of The Avengers have to say (they are much more articulate), their actions are fairly true to their comic book roots. KIDS FIRST! youth film critics Julianna Noone (age 12) and Talia Rashba (age 11) each give the film a full 5 out of 5 stars, and are quite articulate themselves on their reasons for the top rating.

"This action-packed ...


Macaroni Kid Featured Summer Camps

Macaroni Kid Approved Camps for Kids of All Ages

If you’re like me, you are looking forward to Summer! Especially with this wonderful weather we've been having lately! Bring on the green grass and the Summer Activities! Time to start planning ahead and figuring out what your kids are going to be doing this summer!

Summer Camp season is right around the corner and Now is the time to get them registered! Camp can provide an experience to your kids that they couldn't get at home or school. It can be an amazing opportunity for them ...


This Week's Picks:

Friday, May 18 through Sunday, May 20 - Piccadilly Circus

You’ll see the ‘Elephant Extravaganza’, an elephant stands on one foot; ‘Motorcycle Madness’ has motorcycle daredevils somersaulting and spinning in a big Globe of Doom; my little pony on parade; the fabulous ‘Mongolian Angels’ outstanding contortionists; the ‘White Tiger Spectacular’, crazy comedy with circus clowns, even a 1923 Model T with a mind of its own; daring aerialists; cirque artists and much much more! Its 1½ hours of excitement and fun at PICCADILLY CIRCUS.
Where: Aldrich Arena 1850 White Bear Ave. N. Maplewood
When: Friday 4:30, 7:30 Saturday 1:30, 4:30, 7:30, Sunday 1:00, 3:30, 6:00
Who: Families
How: Purchase tickets online or at the door
Cost: see www.thefuncircus.com for ticketing and discounts
Add to My Macaroni

This Week's Calendar:

May 19th through May 26th

Saturday, May 19 - Family Flick

Chicken Run **Sensory-friendly starts Sept. 24th - sensory-friendly films offer families struggling with autism an opportunity to enjoy a family outing in a safe and accepting environment. Simple adjustments like turning the sound down, leaving the lights up and offering additional staff within the theater to help with concessions, make a film screening sensory-friendly, and welcoming to families who struggle with autism. Audience members are welcome to dance, sing, and walk around without judgment or scrutiny.  
Where: Mall of America Theater
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Families
How: Show up early!  First come, first serve!
Cost: FREE
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, May 19 - Animal Feeding

All exhibit animals are fed live prey weekly. Naturalist will be on hand to answer questions about the predator-prey relationships and the feeding process. 
Where: Springbrook Nature Center - 100 85th Ave, Fridley
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Families
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: Springbrook Nature Center
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, May 19 - Coon Rapids Princess Party

Calling all Princesses! Princes are welcome too! Come dressed as your favorite princess (or prince) and enjoy fun crafts, activities and spending time with Miss Coon Rapids 2012 Samantha Phillippi & the 2012 Coon Rapids Junior Royalty! This is a free community event with any donations being given to the Children's Miracle Network (Gillette Children's Hospital)
Where: Epiphany Church meeting room - Coon Rapids
When: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Families
How: Just show up
Cost: This is a free community event with any donations being given to the Children's Miracle Network (Gillette Children's Hospital)
Add to My Macaroni

Sunday, May 20 - Target Free Sunday at The Minnesota Children's Museum

Thanks to the generosity of Target Corporation, visitors can roam the Museum free of charge, every third Sunday of each month, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Due to the number of visitors on Target Free 3rd Sundays, we suggest leaving strollers at home or in the car. Thank you.
Where: Children's Museum, 10 West Seventh Street, St. Paul
When: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: Families
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: http://www.mcm.org
Add to My Macaroni

Monday, May 21 through Tuesday, May 22 - Tot Time Open Gym

Both parents and kids  will meet new friends and get to socialize and play in a non-structured, super-fun environment.
Where: Andover YMCA Community Center Field House (Gymnasium)
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Infant - Kindergarten
How: Enter using the West entrance to the YMCA and check in at the information desk.  No pre-registration required
Cost: Children $2 - Adults FREE Save by purcashing a punch card - 16 admissions for $25! **Children YMCA members FREE
For more info: Tot Time Open Gym
Add to My Macaroni

Monday, May 21 - Get Crafty!

Join us Monday evenings for a fun filled night full of crafts! We'll learn about nature while making nature crafts such as leaf rainbows, flower books, collages and more! Call the nature center for program themes.
Where: Springbrook Nature Center - 100 85th Ave NW, Fridley
When: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Who: Families
How: Just show up
Cost: $5/person
Add to My Macaroni

Tuesday, May 22 - Toddler Tuesdays: Treasure Beyond Measure Pirate Show

When the greedy Capt’n Curley inherits his father’s pirate ship, he seeks to locate the world’s greatest treasure! Join this silly pirate as he recruits rookie pirates and embarks on an adventure filled with jokes, laughs and treasures! Shows at 10 and 11 a.m.
Where: Mall of America - Rotunda
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Families with toddlers
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
Add to My Macaroni

Tuesday, May 22 - Playful Poliwogs

It's time to come out and explore what fun nature has in store.  This program is a hands-on, fast paced, creative weekly class.  This week's Topic:  Nature Play
Where: Springbrook Nature Center - 100 85th Ave NW, Fridley
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Program is designed for children 2-5 years and their adult companions
How: Just show up
Cost: $3.00 per child, 2 & older
For more info: CLICK HERE
Add to My Macaroni

Tuesday, May 22 - Nature IQ

Tuesday nights don't have to be boring! Come join us as we take a closer look at the nature around Springbrook. We will go on hikes, play games, or participate in scavenger hunts along with other hands on activities to learn about nature. Call the nature center for program themes.
Where: Springbrook Nature Center - 100 85th Ave NW, Fridley
When: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Who: Families
How: Just show up
Cost: $3/person
Add to My Macaroni

Wednesday, May 23 through Thursday, May 24 - Tot Time Group Fitness

Tot Time Group Fitness will introduce the importance of exercise to young children.  This fitness class will be taught by a certified YMCA instructor and will include 30 minutes of exercise and movement through music with the remaining time being used playing an organized sport or game.
Where: Andover YMCA Community Center Field House (Gymnasium)
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Ages 6 & under
How: Parents must be present and participate in all activities with their children.  No pre-registration required.
Cost:   Children $2 - Adults FREE Save by purcashing a punch card - 16 admissions for $25! **Children YMCA members FREE  
For more info: Tot Time Group Fitness
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, May 26 - Animal Feeding

All exhibit animals are fed live prey weekly. Naturalist will be on hand to answer questions about the predator-prey relationships and the feeding process.
Where: Springbrook Nature Center - 100 85th Ave, Fridley
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Families
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: Springbrook Nature Center
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, May 26 - Family Flick

The Wizard of Oz **Sensory-friendly films offer families struggling with autism an opportunity to enjoy a family outing in a safe and accepting environment. Simple adjustments like turning the sound down, leaving the lights up and offering additional staff within the theater to help with concessions, make a film screening sensory-friendly, and welcoming to families who struggle with autism. Audience members are welcome to dance, sing, and walk around without judgment or scrutiny.
Where: Mall of America Theater
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Families
How: Just show up - first come, first serve!
Cost: FREE
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, May 26 - Lowe's Build and Grow Clinic

Nothing says “summer” like ice cream! Your child will love building this Ice Cream Truck complete with stickers and paperboard cutouts!

Where: All Lowe's Locations
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Children
How: Register online HERE!
Cost: FREE
For more info:
Add to My Macaroni

Teen Scene:

Monday, May 21 through Friday, May 25 - Teen After School

Weekdays - teens can shoot hoops, work on skill development and, if room available, ½ court games acceptable. 
Where: Andover Community Center
When: 2:50 PM - 4:50 PM
Who: local High School Students 2:50 – 3:50 pm and local Middle School Students 3:50 – 4:50 pm
How: Please bring school I.D.  Not available days district #11 students not in session.
Cost: FREE
Add to My Macaroni

Plan Ahead:

June 1st through June 10th

Friday, June 1 - Coon Rapids Mother/Daughter Book Club

Our group will allow mothers and daughter to grow closer together by reading. It also helps both mother and daughter connect socially. The benefits of a club like this will be: Enhancing your daughter’s reading skills, Staying connected with your daughter as she grows, Nurturing your daughter’s self-confidence, Helping your daughter learn life skills, Spending social time with other moms/girls, Building a community of caring friends 
Where: Burger King - 13005 Riverdale Drive,  Coon Rapids
When: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Any Mother/Daughter group girls age 9 to 12 
How: Just show up - meets first Friday of every month
Cost: FREE
For more info: Learders are: Eleanor Thomas and Daughter Cassie 763-443-0958 Co-Leaders are Staci Martin and Daughter Carli 763-269-9436
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, June 2 - Home Depot Kids Workshops

Kids can build an organizer to store hair bands, race cars… or make a great gift for DAD!
Where: All Home Depot Stores
When: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Children ages 5-12
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: All kids get to keep their craft and receive a FREE Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement.
Add to My Macaroni

Tuesday, June 5 - Anoka County Historical Society

Exhibits will be available to view free of charge the first Tuesday of each month
Where: The Anoka County Historical Society and History Center, 2135 Third Ave. N., Anoka
When: n/a
Who: Families
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call 763-421-0600
Add to My Macaroni

Saturday, June 9 - Lowe's Build and Grow Clinic

DreamWorks is flying into Lowe’s this Summer! Your child will love building this Monkey Powered Plane straight from the Madagascar movies!
Where: All Lowe's Locations
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Children
How: Register online at  http://lowesbuildandgrow.com
Cost: FREE
For more info: http://lowesbuildandgrow.com/
Add to My Macaroni

Sunday, June 10 - Lowe's Build and Grow Clinic

DreamWorks is flying into Lowe’s this Summer! Your child will love building this Monkey Powered Plane straight from the Madagascar movies! Saturday clinics begin at 10:00 A.M. Sunday clinics begin at 2:00 P.M.

Where: All Lowe's Locations
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Children
How: Register online HERE
Cost: FREE
For more info: http://lowesbuildandgrow.com/
Add to My Macaroni

Summer is Right Around the Corner

Is Your Yard Ready?

The hot summer months are a stressful time for your lawn, especially if your lawn is just beginning to grow from seed.  The following five tips can help your lawn adjust and thrive in the summer heat. 

Tip One:  Keep your lawn a little taller than usual.  The taller your lawn is allowed to grow, the better your lawn can keep the little water that it has available.  A slightly longer lawn will allow a little more shading of the soil, which allows a little more water to remain in ...


Timeless Family Classics on DVD

Save 25%!

Visit this page and use discount code 50PACK25 to save an additional 25% off our incredibly affordable DVD prices!

TIMELESS FAMILY CLASSICS: More than 62 hours of smiles, songs and superb family entertainment. A galaxy of stars to dazzle your world including Ginger Rogers, Shirley Temple, Jack Benny, Kirk Douglas, Bob Hope, Danny Kaye, James Cagney and many more.

NIFTY FIFTIES: It was the era of drive-in movies and cultural changes. Stars like Sidney Poitier, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Charlton Heston, Eva Gardner, Kim Novack, Marilyn Monroe and Gregory Peck ...

Wildlife Weekend

Macaroni Cares

Join the movement! Macaroni Kid is helping Dawn educate more than 2 million kids this spring about the issues affecting wildlife, from oil spills to backyard ecosystems. Check out the FREE, downloadable lesson plans and experiments for teachers and parents. The fun doesn't end in the classroom – you'll also find FREE "Wildlife Weekend" family activities that you can do in your own backyard.

To continue Dawn's 30+ year commitment to preserving wildlife, Dawn worked with their partners at The Marine Mammal Center and International Bird Rescue to ...

It's Bug Season!

Macaroni Cares

According to the National Pest Management Association, an unseasonably warm winter is expected to bring bugs and pests out of hibernation early this year, meaning we’re in store for prolonged mosquito season. Rather than turning to toxic bug sprays to fight against mosquito-borne viruses like West Nile and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), Mom’s everywhere can count on PIC® to help protect their families from dangerous mosquito bites with two unique products that provide maximum protection with all-natural ingredients that don’t need to be applied to skin.
TWIST-IT ...

Contact me!

Suggestions, Feedback, Submit Events, etc.

I am working hard to make sure that I keep up to date on the latest events in our community.  Please contact me if I've missed something important or if you know of an event that you'd like to see published in the newsletter.  

Also, please contact me with any thoughts or comments about my newsletter.  I would really love any feedback that you have!!  Business owners are free to contact me about advertising also.  

Do you know of an upcoming event that you'd like us to ...


Our Wonderful Sponsors

Please visit our sponsors and thank them for being a part of Mac Kid


 


 


Subscribe to newsletter

© 2012 Macaroni Kid, LLC