Downtown St. Paul Sample St. Paul Page 6
Volume 29 | Number 11
Your Community News & Information Source
November 2023
Creators Space to close November 1
The M reopens with new exhibit
Tim Spitzack Editor
Jake Spitzack Staff Writer
T
A
fter more than three years of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic and major remodeling, the Minnesota Museum of American Art is once again ready to welcome visitors. It reopens November 4 with a new exhibit, “Hazel Belvo: For Love,” and visitors can get a sneak peek at construction underway that will triple the museum’s exhibition space by early next summer. Belvo, an American painter, educator and women’s art advocate, will attend the opening and her son Briand will perform on jazz guitar. Guided tours and food will be available. “The exhibit brings together some of her [Belvo’s] early abstractions made while living in New York in the ’60s, some sketches of her son Briand, and a body of work called the Love Drawings which were made while her son Joe struggled through a tragic illness when he was younger,” said M executive director Kate Beane. “Some people know Hazel as the wife of George Morrison, whose work we have a large collection of, but she is an amazing artist in her own right. Her body of work is inspired by her feminist worldviews, her children and her life as an educator.” Belvo was a teacher and chair of fine arts at St. Paul Academy and Summit School for 17 years, and professor and chair of fine arts for 34 years at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, where she is now professor emerita. The exhibit will The M / Page 2
VOTER’S GUIDE L
ines of people will soon stream to polling booths to exercise their right to vote. The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 7, and voters in the St. Paul Voice distribution area will cast ballots for candidates running for city council and school board seats. St. Paul voters will also see a question on their ballot to raise sales tax in the city by 1% to generate about $1 billion for parks and roads over the next 20 years. Election / Page 8
he downtown art community suffered another blow with the announcement of the closing of Creators Space, which for the past five years has been a refuge of creativity, learning and socialization. It hosted its last event during the Fall Art Crawl and is holding classes through the end of October. After that, the space will go dark. The coffeehouse closed following the Crawl. Creators Space was the dream of Melissa Dessart, who one day in December 2016 was pondering heavy issues weighing on her mind: her husband’s brush with death, the realities of motherhood, the impact of working 19 years for a large corporation, violence, and the growing divide of our country. “I just need to create space in my head to think,” she said to herself, and with that her dream was born. Now that dream is taking a different turn. In late September, she issued the following statement: “Our efforts with the city and the philanthropy community to seek investment into our community space and our nonprofit organization have not provided the support needed to keep Creators Space open. We appreciate all your help and support over the last few weeks, but unfortunately it is now time to put our efforts towards the closing…. Needless to say, we’re all deeply saddened by this loss, but the spirit of the vision will live on Creator’s Space / Page 3
Downtown vet center may be headed for the suburbs Jake Spitzack Staff Writer
T
he U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) experiment with having a center for veterans in downtown St. Paul may be coming to an end as it considers relocating to a nearby suburb. In 2021, the VA moved its New Brighton center to the US Bank building to better serve the high number of veterans and active
military members living in the city. Outreach program specialist Paul Peterson said it’s unusual for a vet center to operate in the heart of a downtown and in the same building as other businesses. “Normally we’re close to an urban area but in a standalone setup with a little bit more ease of access,” he said. “The parking and street construction makes it just a little more work to come here… We’ll be here at least another
two years, though, and a lot can happen in that time.” The center has five fulltime licensed counselors who provide one-on-one and group counseling services for veterans and active military members who are experiencing trauma from their service. Commonly addressed are post-traumatic stress disorder, military sexual trauma, addiction, general anxiety and depression. The downtown center is not a
medical facility. Those needing medical care are referred to the Veteran’s Medical Center in Minneapolis or other specialized care providers. The VA is also now serving downtown St. Paul with a mobile clinic staffed by a nurse or nurse practitioner and clinical social worker. They operate from a specially equipped van parked 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Tuesday by the Catholic Charities’ St. Paul Opportunity Center
near Seventh Street. Those using the counseling services at the downtown center attend 5-10 sessions on average, but there’s no limit to how long they can receive counseling. It’s always free for eligible vets, regardless of how they were discharged. Each visit is about an hour long and new visitors generally have their first session within two or three weeks of making an appointment. They can work
with a variety of counselors, each of whom specializes in areas such as combat trauma or family counseling. Most people who have been deployed to war or called to action to respond to an event such as a natural disaster or riot are eligible. “We’ll get a lot of currently serving members in the guard or reserve, or veterans who have been out for a little Vet center / Page 4
A rts & Culture
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The M from page 1
be in the Nancy and John Lindahl Gallery, formerly known as the East Gallery, and will feature more than 60 paintings and drawings from Belvo’s 70-year career as an artist. Admission to the museum, as always, is free. Born in Ohio, Belvo received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Minnesota and was a fellow at the Bunting Institute at Harvard University for two years. She has works in many private, public and museum collections, including the Steinway Collection in New York, the Bezalel Museum in Israel, the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis, and the M. In 1976, she was a founding member of the Women’s Art Registry of Minnesota, a feminist art collective. Belvo still resides in Minnesota and spends part of the year teaching at the Grand Marais Art Colony. She is known for her 50-year exploration of Manidoo-gi-
izhikens – a 400-year-old cedar known as the Spirit Tree – which stands on the Grand Portage Ojibwe Reservation on the shore of Lake Superior. Her most recent body of work is Spirit Tree: Honey Locust, a series of 18 large-scale paintings that pay tribute to a honey locust tree that stood behind the Metropolitan Museum in New York City. The tree was cut down when the museum embarked on an extension
project. A selection of those paintings is included in “Hazel Belvo: For Love.” While the museum has been dark in recent years, it has not been dormant. Much activity has been taking place behind the scenes on its expansion project. “We closed our capital campaign earlier in the year and started construction this spring, so we’ve been busy focusing on the expanded gallery space,” said Beane.
The Downtown St. Paul Voice is published monthly and delivered to every apartment, condominium and skyway drop in St. Paul’s historic urban village, as well as other locations throughout downtown St. Paul. Publisher & Editor: Tim Spitzack Copy Editor: Leslie Martin Staff Writers: Jake Spitzack John E. Ahlstrom
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“For us it was really important to make sure we had adequate space for our permanent collection and to really make a home for ourselves.” The M has operated at more than a dozen sites since it was founded in 1894 as the St. Paul School of Fine Arts. In 1927, it was formally incorporated and began collecting art for instructional purposes. In the 1940s, it expanded its collecting focus beyond instructional works and in the ’50s changed its name to the St. Paul Art Center and
began a robust program of exhibitions. By 1969 it was nationally regarded for its exhibitions and educational programs and was renamed the Minnesota Museum of Art. In 1992, the museum added “American” to its name to reflect its focus on national and regional art. The M has at times lived in Jemne Building, Landmark Center and the former West Publishing building on Kellogg Boulevard, which was demolished in 2015-16. It moved to the Pioneer Endicott Building, 350 Robert St. N., in 2013 after four years without a permanent home. While excitement surrounds the new exhibit and expanded building space, M staff haven’t forgotten the positive feedback they’ve received from the window and skyway exhibits they began installing shortly after the M closed its doors in spring 2020. They will continue installing window exhibits for passersby to enjoy, and new skyway exhibits as well. The most recent window exhibit explored the historical and contemporary state of sleeping and being in bed and featured everything from a reconstructed bedroom to
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a hanging installation made with second-hand pajamas. The M’s $14 million construction project includes renovating and restoring 17,300 square-feet of the Pioneer Endicott building which was built in 1871 and is a registered historic site. The museum will have 36,000 square feet of space when it’s complete, including 6,000 square-feet of gallery space. The project also includes refurbishing all of the Cass Gilbert stainedglass tiles in the ceiling. The project is partly funded by $10 million in bonding from the State of Minnesota last spring. Once complete, the M will reveal pieces from its 5,000-piece permanent collection, which includes new art as well as some that has been lying in wait since the gallery closed. The M also recently received a $400,000 direct appropriation from the State to cover operating costs and hire a Native American fellow. The museum is seeking volunteers to greet visitors into the gallery and will soon hire an officer manager. During the renovation, the museum is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Thurs.Sun. For more information, visit mmaa.org.
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Creators Space from page 1
through all those who have participated in creating the magic of Creators Space. We plan to keep our community connected as we plan for the next phase of our mission to inspire the creative spirit that lives in all of us. More info to come as to how to stay connected to our future efforts. You will hear from us again soon!” Dessart, husband Kevin Dessart and countless others have poured blood, sweat and tears into the space since its opening in April 2018. The Dessarts also invested a sizeable sum to transform a former indoor parking facility into a 34,000-squarefoot center that housed a coffeeshop and several spaces to create, display and sell art, and attend classes in pottery, painting, photography, writing, yoga and more. They tried building their business using a membership model, which started at $106 a month and eventually grew to 160 members. At the end, they served more than 150
artists and over 30 healing arts entrepreneurs, at-risk youth organizations, and local nonprofits. On any given week, they’d host more than 50 classes and 20 meetings. Last year, when it became apparent that the membership model wasn’t sustainable, Dessart decided to create a nonprofit and began trying to drum up financial support from the City of St. Paul and various philanthropic groups to keep Creators Space open. When those efforts proved unsuccessful, she knew it was time to close the doors for good at 218 7th St. E. However, the nonprofit remains. “Over the last nine months we’ve been transitioning to a nonprofit,” she said in a recent interview. “We worked with a consultant to build a solid foundation, a solid board and a 5-year strategic plan.” The nonprofit, Creators Movement, was officially formed in January and is operated by Dessart and
Dessart with her father Johnny Michael Loy. three board members: Adel El Huni, founder and Chief Enabling Officer at Katalyze and head of strategic partnerships and alliances at INclusion ACTION; Christopher Gunlock, operations manager of Creators Space and founder of Open Mind Integration; and Steve Heckler, founder of the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. The board will take a few months to regroup and at the start of the year begin its journey of refining its charter, and vision and mission statements. Its work will likely revolve around providing arts programming that businesses
and organizations can use to spark creativity and promote healing and a sense of community. “The model we created [for Creators Space], I don’t regret it,” said Dessart. “It’s what we needed to get started. We evolved into a hub for community, where people found healing and support and inspiration in their lives.” You can track their progress and sign up for their newsletter at creatorsspace. com. The fate of the building is yet unknown. In 2019, the Dessarts sold it to an investor
who supported the mission of Creators Space. Dessart and her family are going through another difficult time as well. Her father, Johnny Michael Loy, 78, is critically ill. He was instrumental in helping them renovate the building and over the years became a fixture at Creators Space. “My dad is an amazing oil painter,” she said, tearing up at the thought of losing him and Creators Space at the same time. “People would call him ‘Old Master’ because he painted realism, telling stories with light. He was the adopted father of many of the members.” As Dessart faces the challenges ahead, she will lean on the community she found at Creators Space and continue following her dream, wherever that may lead her. “This is my calling and my life’s work – to explore the power of creativity and healing,” she said. “I feel so blessed to have had that time [with Creators Space]. We found a way to build community. I want to continue to provide pathways.”
Downtown St. Paul Voice - November 2023 - Page 3
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Vet center from page 1
while and they’ll come in and say, ‘things are fine, I’m back in school or at a job and my family seems to be okay, but I just have some issues I need to talk about, or there are still some things I think about that I need to get past.’ It’s typically folks who aren’t a threat to themselves or others but just need some tools in their toolbox to thrive and keep going,” said Peterson, who served in the Air Force for 33 years. Peterson said they have seen a spike in recent years with the lessening of stigma surrounding mental health counseling among the younger generation and because commanders of local Army National Guard and Army Reserve units have been helping increase the awareness of their services.
Overall, the St. Paul center serves 100-150 people annually. Other major centers in Minnesota are located in Anoka and Duluth. Counselors also provide weekly care at county buildings in St. Cloud, Rochester, Mankato and other cities. The downtown center offers counseling groups found at all vet centers – Vietnam veterans, women veterans, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and more – but it also has had specialty groups such as gardening and guitar. Notably, since relocating, the center offers equine therapy where people can work alongside a licensed social worker to care for a horse in Lakeville and eventually learn to ride it. “It [vet centers] started out heavily focused on the
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Vietnam vets and has now moved into the next era with the longest war in our country’s history, which is Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom,” said Peterson. “Over time, the vet centers moved from just a place to hang out and be with other vets to a place that really focuses on clinical counseling.” Veteran centers were officially adopted as a funded form of outreach under the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in 1979. Today, more than 300 centers are located across the country. Last year nearly 287,000 veterans, service members and their families received counseling. “From a personal standpoint it’s really pretty amazing [seeing the members healing process],” said Peterson. “There’s a handful of individuals that are here all the way back from the
Vietnam era and they’re very candid. I’ve heard them say the vet center saved their lives. That can sound pretty melodramatic, but their spouse will be shaking their head yes right beside them. Clearly it meets a need, and sometimes enough of a need where people can find their balance again and keep going.” The center is located in suite #101 in the US Bank Building, 374 N. Minnesota St. To get validated parking from the center, enter the US Bank ramp from Minnesota Street and park on levels 3-6. The center is open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri., and has a 24/7 call center that can be reached at 877927-8387. A Veteran’s crisis line can be reached by calling 988 and pressing 1. For more information on the St. Paul Vet Center, call 651644-4022 or visit va.gov/ st-paul-vet-center.
Outreach Program Specialist Paul Peterson and St. Paul Vet Center Director Judith Huerta
{ OPINION }
Misplaced priorities: the decaying city By Anthony T. Eaton Downtown resident
T
he city of St. Paul is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and diverse community. However, beneath the surface lies a growing concern among its residents – the neglect of critical infrastructure like sidewalks and streets while allocating substantial resources to projects like underutilized bike paths and bus-only lanes. In a city facing escalating social problems such as homelessness, drug abuse and crime, it’s time to question whether the city’s priorities are in the right place.
Neglected infrastructure One of the most noticeable issues in St. Paul is the deteriorating state of its infrastructure. Sidewalks with gaping cracks, pothole-riddled streets and aging bridges are common. Pedestrians and motorists alike face safety hazards daily, with accidents and injuries occurring as a result. Residents have repeatedly voiced their concerns about these issues, yet they seem to fall on deaf ears at City Hall.
Neglected streets St. Paul’s streets, once lauded for their quality, are now in a state of disrepair. Potholes are a constant menace, causing damage to vehicles and posing risks to drivers and cyclists. Patchup jobs provide temporary relief, but the underlying issues persist, and the cost of maintenance keeps rising. Neglected streets can also have a negative impact on property values and overall quality of life for residents. Neglected sidewalks Sidewalks in many neighborhoods are not faring any better, especially downtown. Cracked and uneven sidewalks pose a significant risk, especially to the elderly and disabled. For those who rely on walking as their primary mode of transportation, the lack of safe and accessible sidewalks is a daily struggle. Neglected sidewalks also deter potential economic development, as business owners and residents prefer areas with well-maintained infrastructure. Misplaced priorities While the city’s existing infrastructure crumbles, it is puzzling to observe the allocation of millions of
dollars toward projects like underutilized bike paths and bus-only lanes. These projects, while well-intentioned, raise questions about their effectiveness and the allocation of resources.
Underutilized bike paths St. Paul has invested heavily in expanding its bike path network, yet these paths often remain underutilized. While promoting ecofriendly transportation is essential, the city must strike a balance between encouraging cycling and addressing the pressing issues with existing infrastructure. Many of these bike paths also seem disconnected from practical transportation routes, making them less accessible for everyday commuters. Bus-only lanes to nowhere Similarly, bus-only lanes have been implemented in various parts of the city. However, their effectiveness is questionable, given the limited reach of St. Paul’s public transportation system. These lanes may benefit some routes, but their construction should be scrutinized against the backdrop of more pressing needs, such
as repairing roads and sidewalks.
Social challenges and neglected priorities In addition to its crumbling infrastructure, St. Paul is grappling with serious social challenges. Homelessness, drug abuse and crime are on the rise, demanding immediate attention and resources. Neglecting these problems while pouring funds into less critical initiatives sends the wrong message to residents who expect their city government to prioritize their safety and well-being. The city of St. Paul stands at a crossroads. It can choose to address its neglected infrastructure and prioritize the safety and well-being of its residents, or it can continue to invest in underutilized projects while turning a blind eye to pressing social issues. As a community, it is crucial to hold local officials accountable and demand that they reallocate resources to tackle the urgent problems facing the city. Only then can St. Paul truly thrive as a vibrant, inclusive and safe community for all of its residents.
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Momento restaurant, 360 St. Peter St., will reopen as a Mediterranean-style restaurant. It opened last year featuring American-style fare in part of the space formerly occupied by Pazzaluna restaurant but closed for a short period of time. The new format will offer items such as fava bean dip, mixed seafood, cioppino strip steak and wood-fired porchetta. Joseph’s Coat, 1107 W. 7th St., has named Rebecca Bedner as its new executive director. The store provides free goods and services to people in need. Bedner was previously development director at Roseville Lutheran Church. She succeeds Cheryle Stern. The Capitol Area Architectural Planning Board
has named Erik Cedarleaf Dahl as its new executive director. He succeeds Merritt Clapp-Smith. Cedarleaf Dahl served with the Environmental Quality Board for nine years. CAAPB has oversight responsibilities over the State Capitol area. Liliana Letran-Garcia is the new CEO of Interfaith Action, St. Paul, a nonprofit that helps people achieve economic stability and mobility. She formerly served as vice president of programs for Communidades Latinas Unidas en Servicio. Service St. Paul has been created by business and labor leaders to oppose rent control. It plans to raise $300,000 to support candidates for the city council, and have focus group surveys
and polling. Service St. Paul states that the rent control issue passed by voters in 2021 has had a negative impact on housing construction in the city. St. Paul has extended its garbage collection contract for 18 months, through April 2025. The original contract was created five years ago between the city and five haulers. About 65,000 oneto four-unit residential units are served. Zeitgeist, 275 E. 4th St., will hold a Sounding Ground Showcase, 7 p.m., Nov. 2-3. New works by Jay Afrisando, A.J. IsaacsonZvidzwa and Shruthi Rajasekar will be performed. Subtext Books, 6 W. 5th St., will present Stacey
Easton, author of “Why Tammy Wynette Matters,” at 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 2; Susan Thurston, author of “Sister of Grendel” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 14; and poet John Halter at 3 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 19. Penumbra Theatre, 270 Kent St., will present its annual holiday play “Black Nativity” Nov. 30-Dec. 24. “Re-Memori,” a one woman show by Nambi Kelley on the struggles of ancestors, continues through Nov. 5. A public workshop, “Cultivating Authentic Belonging,” will be held Nov. 10. Camp Bar and Cabaret, 490 N. Robert St., will present the following entertainers: Andy Hendrickson, Nov. 3-4; Dwayne Perkins,
Union Depot
Thursday, Nov. 16.
p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 1. Kids are invited to wear their coziest PJs and bring a stuffed animal or comfy blanket. Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m. each Thursday. Includes stories, songs and toys for ages three and younger. Learn 3D Printing, 2-3 p.m. each Friday. Learn the basics of operating the Library’s Ultimaker S3 and Lulzbot Mini 3D printers. Registration required. Call 651-266-7000. Saturday Vibe: America’s Fun Science, 11 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Nov. 4. Features visual science and STEM demonstrations geared toward ages 3 ½-5. Learn Laser Engraving with Dennis, 2-4 p.m. each Saturday. Learn the basics of operating the library’s
Universal VLS 3.50 laser engraver/cutter. Registration required. Call 651-2667000. Library After Dark: Game Night, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 8. Play board and card games. All ages welcome. Saturday Vibe: Family Storytime, 11 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Nov. 18. Includes stories read aloud, puppets, songs, rhymes and activities. Craft Circle, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 22. Bring your projects and work on them with other crafters. Saturday Vibe: MiniMaker, Saturday, Nov. 25, 11 a.m.-noon. Hands-on STEAM program for families with young children. All supplies provided.
The following events are held at Union Depot, 214 4th St. E. For more information, visit uniondepot.org/ event-calendar. Free yoga classes are offered 5:30-6:30 p.m. each Monday and Wednesday, and 9-10 a.m., Saturday. Union Depot public tour, noon-1 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 7 and 21. Games galore, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. each Monday. Giantsize games are available or bring your own. Free. All ages. Trivia Night at Station 81, 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 8 and 22. Free. Riffs, Rails and Cocktails, 5-7:30 p.m., Nov. 2. Live music and restaurant specials at Station 81. American Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.,
Central Library The following events are held at the George Latimer Central Library, 90 W. 4th St. The library will be closed November 10, 11 and 23. Level Up at the Library, 3-5 p.m., each Wednesday. Features video games, arts and crafts, and tech. Lightbox Photography, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 1. Learn techniques to sell or showcase your items online. Registration required. Call 651-266-7000. Drawing & Coloring Circle, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 1. Prompts and materials provided, including coloring pages and a variety of drawing tools. PJ Storytime, 6-7:30
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22, for customers to pick up orders and purchase food for Thanksgiving. The winter market begins Saturday, Dec. 2 with overhead heating and bonfires for roasting sausages. Friedli Gallery, 943 7th St. W., is hosting an opening reception for its new exhibit, “We Are Still Here” Indigenous Arts Showcase, 6-8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 3. This is the fourth year the exhibit will be featured at the gallery and this year it includes works from 19 artists native to Turtle Island, Minn. The skyway walking group meets at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays at US Bank, 101 5th St. E. The group travels a mile and a half through the skyways at a casual pace. During good weather, the group often walks outside.
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Nov. 10-11; Cipha Sounds, Nov. 17-18; and Jeff Campbell, Nov. 24-25. Minnesota Sinfonia will present a holiday concert at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 17, at First Covenant Church, 1280 Arcade St. The orchestra will perform carols and holiday favorites. Ramsey County Historical Society will present Julie Ayer, author of “Defying the Silence” at 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 30, via Zoom. The book covers the 2012 Minnesota Orchestra strike. AZ Gallery, 308 Prince St., will present a Tiny Art Expo and Makers Market, Nov. 25-Dec. 31. St. Paul Farmers Market at 5th and Wall will hold the last weekend of the regular market Nov. 18-19. The market will be open 9 a.m2 p.m., Wednesday, Nov.
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Downtown St. Paul Voice - November 2023 - Page 5
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Patti LuPone will perform at 7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 19, at the Ordway Center.
Landmark Center 75 5th St. W. St. Paul 651-292-3225 landmarkcenter.org
Consortium Carissimi Concert: Madrigals of Northern Italy, 3 p.m., October 28-29. This classical music concert will feature a selection of madrigals, a form of secular vocal music composition that originated in Italy during the 14th and 16th centuries. Tickets start at $10. Great Pumpkin Halloween Festival, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 29. Festivities include a kids’ DJ, magician, face painting, costume parade, treats and crafts, including the chance to decorate your own trick-ortreating bag. Once Upon a Time gala, 5:30-9:30 p.m., Nov. 3. This annual fundraiser for
the Landmark Center will feature a reception, dinner and programming about the city of Paris. $150. Landmark Literati “Grace & Grit: The History of Ballet in Minnesota,” noon-1 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 8. Local author Georgia Finnegan, founder of Saint Paul City Ballet, shares her book on the history of ballet in Minnesota. Free. Courtroom concerts, held noon-1 p.m. on Thursdays, includes Irina and Julia Elkina (piano duo), Nov. 9; and Clea Galhano (recorder) and Jacques Ogg (harpsichord), Nov. 16. Free. KidsJam: Speaking in Tongues, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Nov. 16-17. Three musicians from different cultures will teach about the people, cultures and musical traditions from their homeland. Musicians are Sowah
Mensah from Ghana, Marc Anderson from Minnesota and Gao Hong from China. Free, but registration is required. Geared toward ages 5-12. Landmark Live concert featuring Phillip-Michael Scales, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 17. Tickets are $20 online or $25 at the door. A cocktail hour with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar begins at 6:45 p.m. Ballet Tuesday, noon1 p.m., Nov. 21. Ballet Co.Laboratory performs excerpts from its upcoming season. Free. 45th Annual Old-Fashioned Holiday Bazaar, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 30. The event features gift items handcrafted by area artists, including jewelry, woodwork, paintings, décor, woven and wearable art, handmade lotions, soaps
Photo by Rahav
and more, festive music and treats. $5.
MN Children’s Museum 10 7th St. W. St. Paul 651-225-6000 mcm.org
“Ball-o-rama” through Jan. 21, 2024. Experiment with velocity, gravity and acceleration through 10 interactive stations. Other exhibits and activities include “The Scramble,”
“The Studio,” “Creativity Jam,” “Sprouts,” “Our World,” “Forces at Play,” “Shipwreck Adventures” and “Imaginopolis.” The museum is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturdays, and 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sundays. Tickets are $14.95. Admission is free the first Sunday of each month; reservations are required and tickets are limited. The next free date is October 1.
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Page 6 - Downtown St. Paul Voice - November 2023
MN History Center
345 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-259-3000 mnhs.org
“The Life & Art of Charles M. Schulz” is featured through June 9, 2024. Explore Schulz’s roots in Minnesota and his role as the creator of the “Peanuts” comic strip and its beloved cast of characters. “Reframing our Stories,” is a new addition to the “Our
S ample St. Paul Home: Native America” exhibit. It’s on display through October 2025 and features dozens of recently discovered historic photos of Minnesota’s Native communities and stories about them as told by Native people. “Our Home: Native Minnesota” features historic and contemporary photographs, maps and artifacts. Learn how Minnesota’s native communities have retained cultural practices, teachings and values. Other exhibits include “Minnesota’s Greatest Generation,” “Then Now Wow,” “Grainland” and “Weather Permitting.” The center is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Thurs.Sun. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students, and $8 for children ages five to 17.
History Theatre 30 E. 10th St. St. Paul 651-292-4323 Historytheatre.com
“The Boy Wonder” is presented on select dates through October 29. This musical explores the work and life of Harold Stassen, a progressive leader elected as the youngest governor of Minnesota in 1938, as well as the birth of the United
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Nations. Tickets start at $30, with discounts for students. “I Am Betty” is presented on select dates Nov. 25-Dec. 23. Discover the story of Betty Crocker, a fictional character who has been admired and scorned for a century as people grapple with questions regarding women’s role in American society. Tickets start at $30, with discounts for students.
MN Museum of American Art 350 Robert St. N. St. Paul 651-797-2571 mmaa.org
“Hazel Belvo: For Love,” is a new exhibit opening Nov. 4, in the Nancy and John Lindahl Gallery. It features more than 60 pieces of artwork from Hazel Belvo’s 70-year career as an artist. It is on display 10 a.m.4 p.m.,Thursday-Sunday. through May 24, 2024. “Colonial Traumas,” is an installation in Skyway 28 over Wabasha Street at 4th Street in downtown St. Paul. Created by Luis Fitch, the mural features colorful, vinyl cut-out skulls that represent the complexity of identity, place and belonging for people of mixed-race descent.
“It’s Okay to Laugh” is an installation in the skyway windows above Robert Street. Created by Jose Dominguez, it features colorful vinyl creatures that play hide and seek with passersby. “Off the Deep End,” a digital mural printed on vinyl, is on display in the Jackson Street skyway bridge between 4th and 5th Streets through Mar. 15, 2024. The artwork was created by 19 students from the St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists and explores the theme of metaphorical rising sea level.
Ordway Center 345 Washington St. St. Paul 651-224-4222 ordway.org
St. Paul Chamber Orchestra presents Express Concert: Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., Nov. 3, and 7 p.m., Nov. 4. Tickets start at $12. Minnesota Opera presents Cuzar La Cara De La Luna, 7:30 p.m., Nov. 4, 9 and 11 , and 2 p.m., Nov. 12. Tickets start at $34. Schubert Club presents Milos (guitar), 7:30 p.m., Nov. 18, and 3 p.m., Nov. 19. Tickets start at $36.
Patti LuPone concert, 7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 19. Tickets start at $68. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra presents Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue with Gabriel and Jeffrey Kahane, 7 p.m., Nov. 24-25, and 2 p.m., Nov. 26. Tickets start at $12. Leo Kottke performs guitar, 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 28. Tickets start at $57.99.
Palace Theatre 17 7th Place W. St. Paul 612-338-8388 first-avenue.com
LP performs 8 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 1. Tickets start at $35.
RiverCentre
175 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651- 265-4800 rivercentre.org
Minnesota Roller Derby, 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 11. Tickets start at $16.
in Tongues, 10 and 11:15 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 18, at Schubert Club Music Museum. The event features a 25-30 minute concert from three musicians from different cultures, as well as instrument demos and other hands-on experiences with
the musicians. Musicians are Sowah Mensah from Ghana, Marc Anderson from Minnesota and Gao Hong from China. Free, but registration is required. Sample / Page 9
Harvest Bounty Downtown St. Paul Saturdays 7 am-1 pm Sundays 8 am-1 pm 290 5th St. E.
Thanksgiving Market Wed., Nov. 22 | 9 am-2 pm Fresh turkeys, pies & more Still accepting orders
Fall is in the air and harvest time bounty is at the market. Visit your neighborhood market for locally grown apples, pumpkins, meats, cheeses, flowers and great deals on the freshest food in town.
Event calendar at: stpaulfarmersmarket.com
Schubert Club
302 Landmark Center 75 W. 5th St. St. Paul 651-292-3268 schubert.org
FamilyJam: Speaking
19th Anniversary Sale Friday, Nov. 10, 4-7 p.m.
Live music, tastings of beer, wine and THC/CBD infused seltzers, swag giveaways
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INTRODUCING
P I C K U P AT Y O U R L O C A L G R O C E R Y S T O R E . AT PA R T I C I PAT I N G L O C AT I O N S . Downtown St. Paul Voice - November 2023 - Page 7
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E lection 2023 Election from page 1
To vote in Minnesota, residents must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old on election day, and a resident of Minnesota for 20 days. Register to vote in advance to save time at your polling location. To register online, visit mnvotes.sos. state.mn.us. To find your polling location, visit poll finder.sos.state.mn.us. For more information on elections and voter registration, call the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office at 651-2151440 or visit www.sos.state. mn.us/elections-voting. Candidates without information were given multiple opportunities to respond.
Sales tax increase A 2019 report from St. Paul Public Works found the city’s approximately 200 miles of arterial and collector streets to be in fair-topoor condition, and a 2022 study indicated they will be considered very poor within the next 20 years. Revenue from the sales tax increase would provide $738 million for road improvement
Your community news and information source and reconstruction projects throughout the city, including 24 arterial and collector roads and some bridges. This work would bring the road network’s Pavement Condition Index to an average level. Park and recreation facilities in the city are 40 years old on average and there is a backlog of more than $100 million in deferred maintenance projects, all of which will be considered critical or urgent within the next five years. Revenue from the sales tax increase would provide $246 million for improvements to aging parks infrastructure including community centers, trails and athletic facilities. Funds would also be used to build a multipurpose community center on the East Side, an athletic complex at an undetermined location, a river-focused environmental learning space and National Park Service headquarters at Crosby Farm Regional Park, and the River Balcony, a 1.5 mile promenade along the downtown bluff. The tax increase would not be applied to purchases of food, clothing or other essential items.
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St. Paul City Council Ward 2 Peter Butler Occupation: Process and procedure writer. Formerly an in-house management consultant and budget analyst in state and local government for 30 years. Political experience: None Top priorities: Repeal the Summit Avenue Regional Trail Plan, substantially reduce the cost of residential trash collection, and promote greater citizen and business input into decisions affecting them directly and citywide. Candidate statement: “I will be ‘At your service and on your side.’ A city council member is elected to represent their constituents, ascertain the majority’s will, and ensure that city services are efficiently and effectively delivered to exceed residents’ and businesses’ expectations. St. Paul can only be successful when residents and businesses are engaged in problem solving and planning for the future. City government is responsible for direct services to the public. I will focus on the
City’s core responsibilities to citizens, businesses and visitors. I don’t have a personal agenda other than representing the interests of Ward 2 and ensuring that the City spends its tax dollars wisely.” Contact: odd2evenstp@ gmail.com, 651-395-7565 Bill Hosko Occupation: Self-employed freelance architectural artist for 34 years and owner of Hosko Gallery and frame shop for 30 years. Political experience: 100% non-partisan and independent. Elected to three district council boards. Top priorities: Upholding laws that protect the rights of all citizens to be safe and ending the normalization of crime; cleaning up neglected city and public properties within six months and maintaining them; putting tax funds toward road and infrastructure repair and basic city services instead of political pet projects; and holding weekly livestreamed conferences where everything is in the open for discussion, including getting our exploding city budget and subsequent endless tax increases under control.
Candidate statement: “Vote NO on the 1% sales tax referendum. Existing taxes should pay for road repairs and basic city services. Too many people are being harmed by ever higher taxes and crime rates (under-reporting of crime has become common). Together, residents of Ward 2, we will correct many of our problems while simultaneously greatly improving your quality of life here.” Contact: 651-222-4767, billhosko.org, bill@billhosko.com Rebecca Noecker Occupation: City councilmember Political experience: Two terms representing Ward 2 as a city councilmember Top priorities: Make it easier for working families to live in St. Paul by expanding access to quality childcare, affordable housing and jobs. Invest in our infrastructure, especially where deferred maintenance has taken a toll – roads, bridges, bike lanes and city buildings and parks. Expand our tax base and find reliable new revenue models to stabilize our city budget so we can preserve our
high-quality city services and add new programs without unsustainable tax increases year-over-year. Candidate statement: “I am a proud resident of St. Paul’s West Side, a community builder, a relentless optimist, a wife and mother. I am committed to working hard, to seeing all sides of a problem, to listening and to getting things done. I ran for office to make St. Paul the best city in the world to work, to learn, to have fun and to raise a family. During my first two terms, I have been a leader on the Council on public safety, economic development, education and government accountability. We’ve got a lot more to do. I’m excited to keep working with you to make our city a place where all children get off to a great start, housing and jobs are abundant, and families feel safe in neighborhoods they love. I hope to earn your support.” Contact: 651-314-9311, rebeccaforsaintpaul@gmail. com, rebeccanoecker.com Noval Noir Occupation: Artist and arts educator for more than 15 years
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E lection 2023 Political experience: None Top priorities: Education reform and working with all stakeholders to ensure that every child receives a quality education and the resources they need to succeed; fostering collaboration between law enforcement, community leaders, and residents to increase public safety and address crime and safety concerns more effectively; and implementing programs that provide education and resources to prevent addiction and support those on the path to recovery. Candidate statement: “I’m proud to be a grassroots candidate, driven by the voices of our community. I see myself as a bridge builder, aiming to bring diverse perspectives together to find common ground and enact positive change. Our youth are the future, and I am a staunch advocate for their voices and concerns. Together, we can create opportunities and a safe, nurturing environment for our young people to thrive.” Contact: 651-360-3888, novalnoirforward2@gmail. com, novalnoirforward2. com
St. Paul School Board Zuki Ellis Background: Two terms on the school board including time as chair; Minnesota School Board Association district director for Area 8; on the Legislative Executive Board for the Association of Metropolitan School Districts and served as ex-officio member of the St. Paul Teacher Retirement Fund Board Association. Future budget needs: “It’s critical to surround our students with social-emotional learning, mental health sup-
Sample from page 7
Science Museum of Minnesota 120 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-221-9444 smm.org
Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed is a featured exhibit returning to the Science Museum for the first time since its debut in 2013. It’s on display through Sept. 4, 2024. Presented in English and Spanish, it features more than 200 authentic artifacts, hands-on activities, lifelike
Your community news and information source port and elective opportunities to explore and engage in their learning for the possibilities of their future. I have and will continue to advocate for the state fully funding schools. We have American Rescue Plan federal dollars. It has created possibilities for staffing, growth and innovation. That money has a sunset, and difficult decisions will need to be made and that work is underway. I will also continue to support the investment of upkeep and improvements of our buildings for future learning.” Funding extracurricular programs: “Programs that provide our students access and opportunities to experiences and connections within schools and in partnership with our community are extremely important…. and help build relationships and create more opportunities for learning and fun. It gives families safe and affordable before and after school learning experiences for their kids.” LGBTQ+ policies: “Discrimination against our LGBTQ+ community is on the rise and is intolerable. We need to fight against these hateful messages. I am proud that St. Paul Public Schools (SPPS) was the first to create the Gender Inclusion Policy. I fully support it and will continue to dialogue with our students and staff to increase trans and non-binary inclusive sex-ed, consent ed and comprehensive sex education.” Security in the schools: “We all want to know our children are and will be safe in their schools. This is a complex topic that has to be approached in a wholistic way – there is not one answer or one simple solution. I do not believe, nor does research prove, that
armed police in our schools make them safer. We have increased our School Support Liaisons across SPPS and they have been doing great work in our schools. Security and emergency management is continuous work, and while we do not have police in our schools, we do still partner with law enforcement when needed.” Contact: neighborsfor zuki@gmail.com, or zuki ellis.com.
simulations and more. Green Card STEM Voices is a temporary exhibit on display in the Community Gallery through the end of the year. Learn about the life journeys of 30 Afghan youth. Entomology Pinning Workshop, 5:45 p.m., Oct. 27, and 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Oct. 28. Learn about the scientific study of insects, the entomology collection at the Museum and the basics of how to prepare your own specimens for display. Classes are one hour long and participants will bring home a Death’s-head Hawkmoth that they pin.
$140. Museum admission included. Omnitheater films: “Jane Goodall: Reasons for Hope,” through Feb. 29, 2024. Follow the world’s most famous living ethologist as she inspires people to make a difference in the world around them. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992), 7 p.m., Oct. 27. Alien (1979), 7 p.m., Oct. 28. “Recombination,” 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday nights. The film features the work of fractal artist Julius Horsthuis and seven of his favorite musicians. Stellar Tours Live Digi-
Carlo Franco Background: Humboldt High School graduate; bachelor’s degree in child psychology; youth engagement and training manager for the City of St. Paul; president of the West Side Boosters and a member of the board of directors for Neighborhood House. Future budget needs: “One of the biggest threats to our district is that families are leaving, often seeking private and charter schools, or even schools in the suburbs that can provide more accessible support services. To keep families here, we must invest to restore our public schools as competitive, critical community infrastructure. This will require reducing administrative overhead, which is bloated compared to our district’s total budget.” Funding extracurricular programs: “To prepare students for meaningful careers, we must restore investments in arts and athletics, invest in experiential learning and out-of-classroom learning opportunities, and increase partnerships between district schools and communitybased organizations.” LGBTQ+ policies: “I am endorsed by Stonewall DFL and OutFront MN for championing LGBTQ+ friendly policies in my plat
form and through my experience in organizing and advocacy. We must ensure our curriculum and wraparound services are representative of all students to improve the health and education of the community as a whole.” Security in the schools: “We must invest in additional counselors, social workers, restorative justice coordinators and community intervention workers. I led student success, intervention and positive school climate initiatives at Humboldt High School from 2017-2021 and would like to see the successes of that program replicated districtwide.” Contact: www.carlo franco.org Abdi Omer Background: Public works employee for 23 years Future budget needs: “I stand for what is good for students and the community. Budget is important and I will work hard to see that it’s used to produce desired outcomes for the school and community. I will make decisions to adjust the future budget based on the past.” Funding extracurricular programs: “I know as a parent how my children benefited from extracurricular programs. We know it enriches our children.” LGBTQ+ policies: “LGBTQ+ policies are new to me, and I am learning. I believe it is long overdue to take steps for our communities to recognize the needs of the LGBTQ+ and other minorities’ rights.” Security in the schools: “Security is a hot issue nowadays. School safety is important, and we all have a different opinion. Talking to community members, I found police in schools do not make safe schools due to
tal Telescope Show, Wed.Sun. at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Choose your own space adventure and experience the Omnitheater’s Digistar 7 projection system. Omnitheater tickets are $9.95. Free for children ages 3 and under. Sensory Friendly Sunday is the first Sunday of the month. Visitors can experience a lights-up, sounddown Omnitheater show at 10 a.m. The program was created in consultation with the Autism Society of Minnesota. Admission is free for personal care attendants when visiting with a client. Museum tickets are
their practices and I believe them. I think we can find an alternative.” Contact: jkujoog55@ gmail.com Erica Valliant Background: Equity director at People Serving People; financial services and insurance; community engagement and systems change work; and telecommunications. Future budget needs: “Fully funding restorative justice programming, build financial literacy skills into curriculum, invest in early learning, adequate staff-tostudent ratio in classrooms, teacher retention and invest in increasing number of teachers of color.” Funding extracurricular programs: “Students need and should have access to extracurricular programs.” LGBTQ+ policies: “My goal is to do what’s in the best interest of all students.” Security in the schools: “Security in schools is very important to the safety and well-being of our teachers, students and staff. Restorative justice programming and being intentional about fostering a culture of school pride, respect, and belonging with staff, students and families goes a long way toward building a sense of accountability and ownership as we all have a role in keeping our schools safe.” Contact: 651-788-3320, contact@valliantforschool board.com, www.valliant forschoolboard.com Gita Rijal Zeitler Background: Graduate of University of MinnesotaTwin Cities; health care provider and school volunteer. Future budget needs: “Better education and school environment for all children to get world class education.
$29.95 for ages 18+ and $19.95 for ages 4-17.
Xcel Center
199 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-726-8240 xcelenergycenter.com
Make public school attractive to all families by offering catch-up and advanced classes. If the trend keeps going down, our public schools will keep closing, which will be devastating for low-income and middleclass families. Have a tutoring center in all public high schools so students who are struggling in math, reading, writing and science can get help and graduate with basic life skills of reading, writing and math. School management must work on using untapped resources like parents, nonprofits and business organizations. This is a tough time for families, so schools need to be smart about how they spend their resources. Must find alternative funding sources rather than increasing property tax – St. Paul will be an unaffordable place to live for middle-class people if we keep increasing property tax.” Funding extracurricular programs: “Yes but find funding from other sources rather than property tax.” LGBTQ+ policies: “People must be allowed to live the life they want to, and they must feel safe, welcomed and treated equally. Same time, personal choices and views must not impose their own views or life choices on others.” Security in the schools: “I think children can learn only when they feel safe and secure. We need to have security in school and maybe have a long-term plan of other ways we can keep school safe.” Contact: gita4school board.com Chauntyll Allen and Yusef Carillo did not respond.
Volunteer In Your Community
Lutheran Social Service of MN is seeking volunteers age 55+ in your area to provide companionship to older adults or mentor school-age children. Volunteers commit to regular weekly hours for a tax-free stipend and mileage reimbursement. Please contact Brinn Krabbenhoft at 651.310.9455, or Brinn.Krabbenhoft@ lssmn.org for more information and to make an impact in your community.
Queen + Adam Lambert, 8 p.m., Oct. 27-28. Tickets from $238.84. Tool, 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 31. Tickets from $79. Eagles, 6:30 p.m., Nov. 17-18. Tickets from $249. Jonas Brothers, 7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 19. Tickets from $44.95. Pentatonix, 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 25. Tickets from $79. Downtown St. Paul Voice - November 2023 - Page 9
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Postscript
Talking to Strangers
I got anxious again today. I think I’m getting better at leaving anxiety behind, and then anxiety says, “Not so fast! We have more work to do.” Usually, this has to do with my writing: “Is it good enough? Does she hate it?” But not always. Sometimes I’ll post something on Facebook and someone will take offense. Since I make an ef-
Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com
fort to never post anything controversial or unkind, this
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always shocks me and makes me wonder if I have any idea how I sound when I write. Since writing is pretty much all I do, this concern starts to bang around in my brain like a kitten knocking things off the shelf. “What was I thinking?” I wonder. But I don’t actually remember thinking anything at all. I’ll make comments I imagine are helpful or clarifying and end up offending someone and wondering why I didn’t just remain silent. The best thing to do at this point is to take a walk. On my walk, I usually encounter a few homeless people. The Catholic Church nearby feeds them and provides other services, so there are usually a handful of folks – who have some kind of problem that I have never
had to deal with – waiting in the summer heat or the winter cold for the doors to open so they can get the help they need. I talk to these folks as I walk by. Some of them ignore me. Most of them smile and return the greeting. But occasionally I meet someone who just stares at me, like, “What is her story?” And the funny thing is that they assume I have one. “It’s going to be cooler tomorrow!” I announced yesterday to a gentleman sitting on the steps. Only as I got closer did I notice he had his head under his T-shirt. He pulled it out when he heard me. “It’s going to be really cool,” I repeated to the confused-looking fellow. “Much cooler than normal!” He stared at me as if I was
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teachers, before/after-school child care OR supervise groupsin of a classroom Paraprofessional - Work with students students. Full and Part-time positions available. Starting base wage assisting before/after-school child care OR $19.63 perteachers, hour (DOQ). supervise groups of students. Full-time or part-time. BUS DRIVERS - Safely transport students to and from school. Starting base base wage up to $22.90 per hour (DOQ). Paid training and Starting wage $19.63/hr. (DOQ). CDL certification. Bus Drivers - Safely transport students to and from NUTRITION SERVICES - Prepare serve breakfast and lunch Starting for school. Paid training &and CDL certification. base students. Starting base wage $16.50 per hour. wage $22.90/hr. (DOQ). CUSTODIAN - Perform cleaning, event setup and clean up, and Nutrition Services and serve breakfast and ensure safety of buildings. FullPrepare and part-time positions available. Full-time base wage $21.76 per hour. Part-time/seasonal lunch for starting students. Starting base wage $16.50/hr. base wage starting at $16.80 per hour (DOQ). Custodian - Perform cleaning, event set-up/cleanKIDS CLUB SUPERVISOR - Lead our Kids Club Program (school-age up, and ensure safety of buildings. Full-time starting child care) in one of our elementary buildings. Supervise paraprofessional staff. Full-time, 12-month position. Starting base base wage $21.76/hr. Part-time and seasonal starting wage is $21.50 per hour (DOQ). base wage $16.80/hr. (DOQ). For more information and to Kids Club Supervisor - Lead aapply: school-age child care sowashco.org/careers program in one of our EOE elementary buildings and supervise paraprofessional staff. Full-time, 12-month. Starting base wage $21.50/hr. (DOQ). For more information and to apply: sowashco.org/careers
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The story I make up for myself when I’m anxious is that I’m failing – somehow, somewhere – and no one has told me how or why. But I have no idea why that man was hiding under his T-shirt, and I’m betting his reasons were a lot better than mine. By now I know that my anxiety is a mood, that it will pass. As uncomfortable and demanding as it is in the moment, it’s almost impossible to remember after the fact. Walking helps. And talking to people, even folks who seem a little confused, helps as well. It is cooler today – just as I promised the fellow on the steps it would be. I’m going to put on my shoes right now and talk to some strangers. Till next time.
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speaking in code. I could tell that – whatever he thought of me – he assumed I knew what I was talking about. He thought I had it together. He had no way of knowing how many days I wondered if hiding under my own Tshirt might not be the best strategy. I realized by then that he had some cognitive problem but felt I needed to wrap up the conversation anyway, just for the sake of politeness. “So, you take care, OK?” I waved and headed off, realizing I had just embarrassed myself in front of a man who was hiding under his own T-shirt. We’re all making up stories for one another without knowing what the real story is.
Holy Family Maronite Church 1960 Lexington Ave. S., Mendota Heights 651-291-1116 | www.HolyFamilyEvents.org
DOWNTOWN Church of St. Louis, King of France 506 Cedar St. 651-224-3379 stlouiskingoffrance.org • Church of the Assumption 51 W. Seventh St. 651-224-7536 assumptionsp.org • Central Presbyterian 500 Cedar St. 651-224-4728 centralforgood.org • First Baptist 499 Wacouta St. 651-222-0718 firstbaptiststpaul.org • Church of St. Mary 267 8th St. E., #100 651-222-2619 stmarystpaul.org
WEST SIDE Cherokee Park United 371 Baker St. W. 651-227-4275 cherokeeparkunited.org • La Puerta Abierta UMC 690 Livingston Ave. 651-558-1896 • Our Lady of Guadalupe 401 Concord St. 651-228-0506 www.olgcatholic.org
St. Elizabeth Orthodox 125 Congress St. E. 651-424-0814 seocc.org • St. Matthew Catholic 490 Hall Avenue 651-224-9793 st-matts.org • St. Paul Mennonite Fellowship 371 Baker St. W 651-291-0647 saintpaulmennonite.org
WEST ST. PAUL Augustana Lutheran 1400 Robert St. S. 651-457-3373 augustana.com • Community Christ the Redeemer 110 Crusader Ave. W. 651-451-6123 ccredeemer.org • Crown of Life Lutheran Church & School 115 Crusader Ave. W. 651-451-3832 colwsp.org • Faith United Methodist 1530 Oakdale Ave. 651-457-5686 faithumcmn.com • Mizpah River Ministries 1530 Oakdale Ave. 651-399-5783 • Riverview Baptist 14 Moreland Ave. E. 651-457-3831 riverviewbaptist.net
Salem Lutheran 11 Bernard St. 651-457-6661 salemluth.org • St. George Antiochian Orthodox 1250 Oakdale Ave. 651-457-0854 saintgeorge-church.org • St. James Lutheran 460 Annapolis St. W. 651-457-9232 saintjameslutheran.com • St. Joseph’s Catholic 1154 Seminole Ave. 651-457-2781 churchofstjoseph.org • St. Stephen’s Lutheran 1575 Charlton St. 651-457-6541 ststephenswsp.org
SOUTH ST. PAUL Luther Memorial Church 315 15th Ave. N. 651-451-2400 luther-memorial.com • St. Augustine’s Catholic Church 408 3rd St. N. 651-455-1302 holytrinitysspmn.org • First Presbyterian 535 20th Ave. N. 651-451-6223 fpcssp.org • Woodbury Lutheran Wakota Ridge Campus 255 W. Douglas St. 651-739-5144 woodburylutheran.org
South St. Paul Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist 140 6th Ave. N. 651-455-0777 • Grace Lutheran Church 149 8th Ave. S. 651-451-1035 grace-ssp.org • Holy Trinity Catholic Church Catholic church 749 6th Ave. S. 651-455-1302 holytrinitysspmn.org • Clark Memorial United Church 779 15th Ave. N. 651-451-7278 clarkgraceucc.org • St. Sava Serbian Orthodox church 357 2nd Ave. S. 651-451-0775 stsavamn.org • Saint John Vianney Catholic Church 789 17th Ave. N. 651-451-1863 info@sjvssp.org • Sf. Stefan Romanian Orthodox Church 350 5th Ave. N. 651-451-3462 sfantulstefan.org • St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church 501 6th Ave. S. 651-455-8947 stmarymn.org
Downtown St. Paul Voice - November 2023 - Page 11
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An ode to Mickey’s Diner Tim Spitzack Editor
T
he corner of West Seventh and St. Peter streets just hasn’t been the same since 2020, when COVID-19 took down one of St. Paul’s most iconic institutions: Mickey’s Diner. No longer do we see the warm glow of its interior lights illuminating the sidewalk, or people huddled inside waiting to be served “America’s Favorite All-Day Meal,” which included two eggs, meat, thick-shred hash browns and toast, all for under ten bucks. You could get that meal and many others any time of the day, every day of the year. The dining car is more than 80 years old and has had its share of issues to meet 21st century comfort and compliance but it had chugged on for decades by dishing out decent food at a fair price. Many have been patiently awaiting its reopening but now wonder
if it will ever come. It was scheduled to reopen in the spring of 2022 following a GoFundMe drive that raised more than $73,000 to help the owners renovate and replace the HVAC system. That came amidst supply chain issues and rising interest rates, which complicated matters even further. Since then, Mickey’s website and Facebook page have teased at its reopening, but no updates have been given in quite some time. Its website now reads: “We have made the difficult decision to again suspend service. It pains us we won’t be here for our loyal customers, downtown neighbors and regulars. We have enjoyed greeting familiar faces and meeting all the new ones. We wholeheartedly thank you for your support! We look forward to seeing you and serving you again soon! Please follow us on Facebook for updates. Be well.... until we meet again.” Its Facebook page is no longer active and calls re-
garding its status were not returned. If Mickey’s fails to reopen, St. Paul will be the poorer for it. The famous eatery served everyone from everyday St. Paulites to A-list Hollywood actors and over the years earned numerous accolades. It has been named one of America’s Top Ten diners, been on the Food Network and other national food shows, and appeared in publications far and wide, from National Geographic to Esquire. The diner has also been featured in some Hollywood blockbusters, including “The Mighty Ducks” and “Jingle All The Way,” which features a classic scene when Howard Langston and Myron Larabee, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad, respectively, are engaged in a tussle inside the diner that ends with Larabee in a chokehold screaming “911” into a payphone receiver that, incidentally, had been ripped from the phone during the scuffle.
The diner dates to 1937, when Mickey Crimmons and Bert Mattson commissioned a New Jersey firm to prefabricate a restaurant in the form of a passenger-train dining car – so, no, Mickey’s is not an actual railroad dining car. The only time it was on the rails was when it was shipped to St. Paul. The owners had it placed at 36 West Seventh St. and opened it in 1939. It has been a family-owned business ever since, always under ownership by a member of the Mattson family. The diner’s eclectic motif and architectural style landed it on the National
Register of Historic Places in 1983. Its exterior has yellow and red porcelain steel panels, plate glass windows divided by fluted chrome strips, Art Deco lettering, and a roof topped with a neon sign and a ribbon of light bulb edging. Its glass vestibule was not part of the original prefabricated design. The interior has stainless steel grills and fixtures, booths and stools to accommodate 36 customers, and walls sheathed in mahogany paneling and smoked glass mirrors. The National Register nomination form says Mickey’s is the only known dining car of its type to sur-
vive in Minnesota and notes its “exceptional cultural, architectural and historical importance as a beloved, longstanding and unique social institution.” Downtown’s recovery from the pandemic has been painfully slow, mainly because so many people are working from home. City leaders, boosters and downtown residents alike are hoping more and more workers return in the coming year to breathe life into the quiet buildings, skyways and streets. Hopefully that happens soon, and that Mickey’s returns along with them.
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