Downtown St. Paul Voice Jan. 2024 by St. Paul Publishing Co.

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Volume 30 | Number 1

City makes progress with skyway safety Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

irty and unsafe portions of the skyway system will now be cleaned up by the City but the cost of the work will fall on the building owner who failed to meet skyway standards. This change in city code, approved Dec. 13, is just one of the steps the city is taking to revive the elevated thoroughfares, which have been battling issues related to homelessness since many downtown workers began working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, building owners are expected to keep their part of the skyway clean and temperature-controlled, provide security through a live video camera or security personnel, and unlock their skyway doors at 6 a.m. and lock them at midnight. “We’re [also] putting some dollars towards physical improvements related to crime prevention through environmental design,” said Angie Weise, director of the St. Paul Department of Safety and Inspections, at the city council meeting. “Folks who traverse the skyway, myself included, should see those taking place over the next couple months, which will be really fantastic to see. I think it’ll be very apparent because they’re in high traffic areas.” A few of the improvements include additional video cameras and intercoms and signage stating that video cameras are in use. The recently approved city code amendment also puts a deadline on when building Skyway ordinance / Page 3

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January 2024

Winter Carnival events ramp up with the new year

Fusion Bites opening soon at former Black Dog Cafe Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Photo by St. Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation

The popular ice carving competition returns to Rice Park. Carnival held Jan. 25-Feb. 3 Tim Spitzack Editor

ith the turn of the calendar, hearty St. Paulites will turn their attention to the city’s most popular celebration, the St. Paul Winter Carnival. The frosty fun begins January 1 with an ice fishing contest and continues through February 4, although the official dates of the carnival are Jan. 25Feb. 3. Events are held at various venues

including Landmark Center, Rice Park and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Most events are free, but some have fees. Purchase a 2024 Winter Carnival button for discounts. The Winter Carnival is presented by the St. Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation and is said to be the oldest winter festival in the nation. In a typical year it attracts an estimated 250,000 visitors who shell out a combined $2-$3 million. Here’s a guide to the events. The information was accurate as of press time but is subject to change. For Winter Carnival / Page 6

restaurant featuring traditional American food and Indian cuisine is slated to open on New Year’s Eve in the space of the former Lowertown landmark Black Dog Café. Located on the street level of the Northern Warehouse building at 308 Prince St. E., Fusion Bites will offer a vast menu including sliders, chicken wings, cheesesteaks, seafood, pasta, burritos as well as curry, kabobs and biryani, a rice-based dish with meat and spices. “Food is my passion,” said owner Ather Jameel, who noted they will also offer vegan and vegetarian dishes and rotate some menu items seasonally. “We’re bringing a fusion of multicultural cuisine so everyone can enjoy, and our party hall will be open for anyone to reserve.” The 6,000-square-foot space can seat 150, and features an indoor stage, patio, 20-person private dining room, and artwork from artists living in the building. The main hall can be divided into two spaces, which makes it flexible for a variety of events. The restaurant recently hosted three wedding events prior to opening. In addition to renting the space for parties, Jameel plans to organize special events like Jamaican nights, Mexican nights and Indian nights, and have live music on weekends to help attract people visiting the Fusion Bites / Page 3

New kicksled business opens in time for winter fun Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

ooking for a new way to enjoy the quiet beauty of winter and get some needed exercise at the same time? Try kicksledding, an early-19th century activity that’s seeing resurgence as a recreational sport. Its rise in popularity prompted Melisa Christensen to open a new business that provides

everything one needs to experience the sport. Brave the Snow opened in midNovember at 30 E. 7th St., in downtown St. Paul across from the Minnesota Children’s Museum. A kicksled resembles a chair on skis, called runners, with a handlebar on the chair back. The sled is propelled by the driver standing on one of the skis and kicking backwards on

the ground with the other foot. They were introduced in northern Sweden around 1870 and within 20 years were being used for racing. In Canada, sleds were modified to be pulled by dogs. Frozen lakes and multi-use trails are most suitable for the activity, especially when the snow is packed down. Brave the Snow offers three types of kicksleds imported from Finland, each

with five size options. The most popular is made of sustainably finished birch wood and has a small seat. The lightest one is made of aluminum, and the most expensive is steel with suspension and other features designed for better gliding. All models fold down for easy transport. Kicksleds run from $300-$400 and are designed to last for many years. Christensen also sells acces-

sories including running lines (for use with dogs), brakes, crampons, apparel and more. Christensen’s first foray into the activity was three years ago at a Dodge Nature Center Winter Expedition event, where she loaded her two kids onto a kicksled seat and glided for miles around the small frozen pond and on trails throughout the property.

“I thought it was so fun, and couldn’t believe I hadn’t seen it before,” said Christensen. “I did a little research online and there was no place locally to get one.” She found a company in Canada and purchased a kicksled, “but the shipping was really expensive,” she said, “and I had never had something that big delivered internationally so I was kind Kicksled / Page 2

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Kicksled from page 1

of nervous.” While enjoying her new sled, she was often stopped by others interested in what she was doing. That prompted her to create Brave the Snow as an online business, which she operated for two years before landing the brick-and-mortar space downtown. “I got into it kind of thinking everybody would

be like me and want one to get exercise by pushing their kids, but that’s really not the majority of people who are buying,” said Christensen, a former St. Paul Public Schools art teacher. “It’s more people who have aged out of skiing but really like winter, so they want something more stable. There are also people who want a winter goal with their dog, and

some families like me.” Christensen shares the shop with Alexandra Johnson, who operates Jack and the Pack, a dog sporting equipment and supply store that opened in June. The two met by happenstance through social media in early 2023. After a few meetings, they decided to open a storefront together and began looking for space. Jack and the Pack opened with the help of Grow Downtown, a St. Paul Downtown Alliance program that pro-

Winter Expedition Saturday, Jan. 27 | 1:00-3:00 p.m.

vides free 6-month leases in formerly vacant properties. Christensen waited to open until the late fall because her product is seasonal. Sharing a space is a natural fit for the stores, she said. “About a third of my customers are using their kicksleds for dog sports and those customers need to have a perfectly fitting harness for their dog so it’s safe for the dog. You really have to go into a store to try it on and AJ [Johnson] provides those and has that expertise. In that sense, it’s a really good one-stop shop for people who are looking for that.” Johnson also offers classes for those who want to kicksled with dogs. Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul is holding its Winter Expedition event 1-3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 24, and

$10. Preregistration required.

Fun for the entire family!

Load up the kicksleds with supplies and head down the trail for an outdoor adventure! Look and listen for wildlife as you start a fire to stay warm and cook toasty treats. Winter can be cold, but there’s still plenty to enjoy in the outdoors.

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Christensen demonstrates her kicksled. Her new business provides everything one needs to experience the sport. kicksleds will be available to try for $10. To return the favor for exposing her to the sport, Christensen has donated kicksleds for the event for the past two years, and they’re raffled off to lucky winners each year. Christensen has let people

try her kicksleds at events such as the Kites on Ice Festival in Buffalo, Minn., and the Art Shanty Projects on Lake Harriet in Minneapolis. For more information, call 612-405-3097 or visit bravethesnow.com.

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Skyway ordinance from page 1

owners must provide the City with their annual safety plan for their segment of the skyway. Previously, they could do so at any time of the year but now they must submit their plan by March 31. These improvements are being made possible through partnerships between the City and its police department, the St. Paul Downtown Alliance, Metropolitan Council, Metro Transit and building owners that are part of the skyway system. The City is also working with Ramsey County Workforce to employ people receiving services at Listening House, a daytime homeless shelter, to pick up litter throughout downtown, including in the skyway system. The Downtown Alliance employs street ambassadors through its St. Paul Downtown Improvement District to do this work but city staff believe that the more people there are in the skyways the safer they will be. Additionally, more St. Paul Police patrol the skyways in the wintertime.

Building owners who are complying with skyway standards “have frankly been sick and tired of keeping up their end of the bargain when connecting skyway systems are not kept up to the proper standards,” said Tina Gassman, president of the Building Owners and Management Association, at the council meeting. “Their frustrations have really come to a boiling point and they’re looking for any feasible solutions to help bring up the general standard and safety of the skyway.” Gassman’s group represents about 300 business owners in St. Paul, including 20 who are property owners along the skyway system. The CapitolRiver Council’s Skyway Governance Advisory Committee recommended approval of the amendment prior to it going before the city council. The committee meets the fourth Friday of each month to discuss way to improve the skyway system. To report a problem or concern with a skyway, call 651-266-8989.

Fusion Bites from page 1 neighboring Farmers Market and CHS Field. Jameel grew up in India and learned about the food service industry through catering large events. He became a restauranteur after moving to the United States more than 20 years ago. He formerly owned three Indian restaurants in the metro area but closed them in 2011 to return to India to help his mother who was experiencing health problems. He moved back to Minnesota in 2016 and operated I-Grill in downtown Minneapolis until 2021. For the past two years he returned to his catering roots but has been planning a comeback, and the pieces are finally falling into place. He’s opening three other restaurants around the same time as Fusion Bites. All will be named Spice Shack and serve Indian and Pakistani food. Locations include downtown Minneapolis, Fridley and Bloomington. Fusion Bites will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For more information, call 612404-7841 or visit fusionbitesmn.com.

The newly remodeled 6,000-square-foot space features artwork from artists living in the building.

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N ews Briefs

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{ THE FULLER FILES }

by Roger Fuller

Little Brazil Market and Café has opened at 230 Spring St., near Upper Landing Park. It’s located in the former Caribou Coffee space. The menu includes Brazilian-inspired sandwiches, savory treats and coffee. The restaurant seats 22 and has a 24-seat patio. The market features a wide range of Brazilian products and foods. The St. Paul City Council’s first meeting of the new year marks an historic moment: all members of the new council are women and six are people of color, making it the most racially diverse council in city history.

Newly elected Anika Bowie (Ward 1), Saura Jost (Ward 3), Hwa Jeong Kim (Ward 5) and Cheniqua Johnson (Ward 7) will join Rebecca Noecker (Ward 2), Mitra Jalali (Ward 4) and Nelsie Yang (Ward 6). In the recent election, voters also approved a 1% increase in the city’s sales tax by a 60-40 margin. The State Emblems Redesign Commission has suggested a new seal for the state of Minnesota that features several iconic state images: a loon (the state bird), waves in the water, wild rice and pine trees. The commission received more than

2,600 entries and reduced the number to five before making a final selection. The design will be sent to the Legislature for approval. The Minnesota Wild are considering making upgrades to the Xcel Energy Center, the 18,000-seat arena that serves as its home ice. Completed in 2000 at a cost of $170 million, the center hosts about 150 events a year, including sporting events, concerts and high school state tournaments. The St. Paul City Council approved agreements between MUSC Holdings and Snelling Midway Redevelopment for privately owned

and maintained parkland next to Allianz Field soccer stadium. The project includes a 1-acre sculpture garden near Snelling and University avenues and a .35-acre playground with 25 structures on Simpson Street, between Central and Shields avenues. A plaque recognizing the number of people who died as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic has been installed in the Great Hall at the Ramsey County Courthouse. The St. Paul Farmers Market will host a chilicooking event 9 a.m.-

Library events

Game night, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 10. Board and card games for all ages. Mini-Maker, 11 a.m.noon, Saturday, Jan. 13. Hands-on STEAM program for families with young children. Historic Building Tour, 4-5 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 13. Craft Circle, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 24. Work on your project with other crafters. Saturday Vibe: Winter Carnival Weekend, 11 a.m.noon, Saturday, Jan. 27. Winter crafts in the STEM Play & Learn area. Level Up at the Library, 3-5 p.m. each Wednesday. Enjoy video games, arts and crafts, or tech. Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m., each Thursday. Ages 3 and under. 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. 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 651-266-7000.

TPAC events

The following events are held at the George Latimer Central Library, 90 W. 4th St. The library will be closed January 1 and 15. Theatrical Props and Crafts workshop for ages 13-18, 3-5 p.m., Jan. 3-5. Help create props that will be used in the upcoming theater production of “Alice in Wonderland.” PJ Storytime, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 3, in the children’s area. Wear your coziest PJs and bring your stuffed animal or comfy blanket. Sewing with Susan, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Jan. 6 and 20. Learn to sew. Sewing machines and some fabric and other notions will be available. Family Storytime, 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 6 and 20. Includes stories, puppets, songs, rhymes and activities.

Union Depot 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. Mondays and 9-10 a.m., Saturdays. 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., Wednesday, Jan. 10 and 23. Free.

Unless noted, all activities take place at Thompson Park Activity Center, 1200 Stassen Lane, West St. Paul. Events are for ages 55 and older. To register, call 651403-8300. Gary LaRue: Rat Pack Favorites, 1 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 24. LaRue will perform the classics of the Rat Pack legends. Dessert included. Register by Jan. 17. $8. Conversational Spanish for Absolute Beginners, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Wednesdays, Jan. 3-Feb. 14. $40 for seven sessions. Paint Like the Masters, 1-3 p.m., Mondays, Jan. 8-Feb. 26. $99 for six sessions. No class January 15 and February 19. Discussion with Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Peterson, 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9. Peterson will share insights on protecting

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1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 30 at the downtown market at 5th and Wall streets. Chili fests will continue each Saturday. Camp bar and cabaret, 490 N. Robert St., will present comedians Ellie Hino January 5-6 and Joe Hill January 26-27. AZ Gallery, 308 Prince St., will host its Tiny Art Expo through mid-January. All items are $100 or less. Minnesota Sinfonia will host a concert at 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 12 at Metropolitan State University. The program includes Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 1 (“The Classical”) and Schumann’s cello concerto with soloist Amit Peled. Zeitgeist and No-Exit of

Cleveland will perform music with surrealism at 7:30 p.m., January 12 and 13 at Studio Z, 275 E. Fourth St., Suite 200. Books and Bars will discuss “Who is Maud Dixon” by Alexandria Andrews at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 23 at Urban Growler, 2325 Endicott St. Ramsey County Historical Society will present Stefan Aune, author of “Indian Wars Everywhere,” by zoom at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 18. To participate, visit rchs.org. 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.

our food supply, preserving natural resources and nurturing our agricultural economy. Free. Trivia Wednesdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Jan. 10, 17, 31. $6 for three sessions. The Supreme Court: Past, Present and Future, 10 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 11. $5. Fighting Food Insecurity in Dakota County: The Open Door Food Pantry, 2 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 11. Free. Prohibition: An Epic Misstep in American History, 11 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 16. $9. Nature Sense: Embrace the Cold, 1:30-2:45 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 16. Includes a hike and hot chocolate. Register at least one week in advance. $10. British History: Viking Britian, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9. Register at least five days in advance.

Wish Of A Lifetime – Be the catalyst for dreams, 10 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 23. Free. Antisemitism – Unearth the deep-seated roots of antisemitism, 10 a.m., Jan. 2931. $12 for three sessions. CPR for Bystanders, 1-2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 30. Learn hands-only CPR compressions with practical tips and adaptations. $5. Great Decisions group, 1-3 p.m., Monday, Jan. 8. Engage in thought-provoking conversations and unravel the intricacies of U.S. foreign policy and the ever-evolving global landscape. $10 annually. Men’s Topics & Toast, 9 a.m., Monday, Jan. 29. Buttered toast and toppings provided. $10 annually. Driver safety courses, noon-4 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 4, 18 and Feb. 1. Register at 888-234-1294 or driverdiscountprogram.com. $24 for a 4-hour course.

S ample St. Paul

Landmark Center 75 5th St. W. St. Paul 651-292-3225 landmarkcenter.org

Minnesota Boy Choir concert, 1 and 3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 7. The choir will present two performances of its winter concert. Free. St. Paul Civic Symphony concert, 2 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 28. The symphony will perform “Hot & Cool Classics” celebrating the St. Paul Winter Carnival. Free.

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.” 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 Jan. 7.

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. 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 Home: Native America” exhibit. It’s on display through October 2025 and features dozens of recently discovered historic photos of Native Americans 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,

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teachings and values. Other exhibits include “Minnesota’s Greatest Generation,” “Then Now Wow,” “Grainland” and “Weather Permitting.” 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

“Handprints,” January 27-February 18. A powerful and vibrant autobiographical story written and performed by one of the Twin Cities’ most renowned theater artists, Greta Oglesby. It is based on her book, “Mama ’n ’Nem, Handprints on My Life.” Tickets start at $25, 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 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.

Ordway Center 345 Washington St. St. Paul 651-224-4222 ordway.org

St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concerts: Assad, Janáček and Smetana, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 12 and 7 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 13; Cassie Pilgrim plays Strauss’ Oboe Concerto, 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 26-Jan. 27, and 7 p.m. and 2 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 28. Tickets start at $12 for all concerts. The Minnesota Opera presents Donizetti’s “The Elixir of Love,” January 27-February 4. When young villager Nemorino’s dream of winning the beautiful Adina’s heart is on the rocks, he turns to a traveling purveyor of patent medicines and California citrus in search of a love potion. After drinking every last drop of an unusu-

ally zesty “elixir,” Nemorino feels his luck might just turn around. From $25.

RiverCentre

175 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651- 265-4800 rivercentre.org

Land O’Lakes Kennel Club Dog Show, January 4-7. $13 adult; discounts for seniors and children. Minnesota Roller Derby, 7 p.m., Saturday, January 13. From $12.50. St. Paul RV Supershow, January 18-21. Free.

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. Presented in English and Spanish, it features more than 200 authentic artifacts, hands-on activities, lifelike simulations and more. Virtual Reality Transporter, through December 2026. Use the VRT to hurtle through the cosmos at fantastic speeds, scuba dive into prehistoric seas, or join the astronauts of Apollo 11 as they moonwalk for the first time. $9.95. “Asteroid Hunters,” through April 7. Meet the engineers and scientists fighting to protect Earth from this cosmic danger. Stellar Tours Live Digital Telescope Show, Wed.Sun. at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Choose your own space adventure and experience the Omnitheater’s new Digistar 7 projection system. Omnitheater films. Tickets are $9.95. Free for children ages 3 and under. “Jane Goodall: Reasons for Hope,” through Feb. 29. Follow the world’s most famous living ethologist as she inspires people to make a difference in the world around them. “Recombination,” 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday nights. The film features the work of fractal artist Julius Horsthuis and seven of his

“Recombination” is presented Friday and Saturday nights at the Ominitheatre. The film features the work of fractal artist Julius Horsthuis and seven of his favorite musicians. favorite musicians. 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

$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

Travis Scott will perform at 8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20. Supporting act is Teezo Touchdown. From $56.50.

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A rts & Culture

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Winter Carnival from page 1

more information, visit wintercarnival.com. Ice Fishing Tournament, January 1-February 4. Bait a hook and drop the line for the chance to win prizes in 10 categories. Past Princess Soiree, 6-10 p.m., Friday, Jan. 5 at Mermaid Entertainment and Event Center, 2200 Mounds View Blvd., Mounds View. Honor the outgoing Wind princesses and support the Past Princess Association. $55. Register online at pastprincess.com. Junior Coronation, 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 6 at the Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center, 11411 Masonic Home Dr., Bloomington. See the crowning of the 2024 Junior Royalty Court. $10 with a button, $15 without. Crowns and Gowns Fashion Show, noon-3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 7 at the DoubleTree Hotel, 411 Minnesota St. Tickets from $45. Hosted by the Ambassadors of the St. Paul Winter Carnival. Order tickets at www.ambassadorsspwc.com.

Candidate Gala, 6-10 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 16 at the DoubleTree Hotel, 411 Minnesota St. Meet the candidates for the Queen of Snows in this formal program that includes dinner. Tickets are $65. Klondike Kate Contest, 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 10 at Inwood Oaks Event Center, 484 Inwood Ave. N., Oakdale. Each year up to 10 flamboyant females stretch their vocal cords and performance skills in their quest to be named Klondike Kate. Tickets are $25 through January 9; $30 at the door, or $25 with a Winter Carnival button. The Klondike Kate Cabaret is held at 7 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 27, and the Klondike Kate Artic Sizzle, 11 a.m.4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 2. Both events are at KJs Hideaway, 408 St. Peter St. Tickets at klondikekates.org. Fire and Ice Dinner, 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 19 at the Pool and Yacht Club, 1600 Lilydale Rd., Lilydale. Join the Royal Family, Vulcans, Klondike Kate and the Royal

Guard for an evening of food and fun. Reservations required. Call 651-455-3900. Cost is $35. Vulcan Snow Park Snow Stomp, Jan. 20-21 at the Fairgrounds. Volunteers are needed to stomp snow into large blocks to be used for the snow carving contest. Join the fun in this Winter Carnival workout. To volunteer or for more information, visit mnsnowpark. com/snow-stomp. Annual Queen’s Tea, 11 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 21, at Royal Golf Club, 11455 20th St. N., Lake Elmo. Join former queens in honoring the 2023 Queen of Snows, Jocelyn O’Neill. A social hour with cash bar begins at 11 a.m. and other events begin at noon. $45. Tickets are available online at formerqueens.com/tea. Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tours, Jan. 25Feb. 4. Gangsterland Skyway Tour is a 90-minute tour that explores crime and corruption from St. Paul’s past. Starts at Infor Commons, 380 St. Peter St. $25. Secrets of Union Depot Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at Union Depot and unexplained events that have hap-

The buttons for this year’s carnival were designed by Kao Lee Thao. The cost is $5 for one and $19 for the collector’s 4-pack. A limited edition 4-pack with a commemorative glittery snowflake pin is also available for $20. Buttons may be purchased at Cub Foods and other local retailers, or online at wintercarnival.com. Each button card features a schedule of events and a new Winter Carnival Fun Pass that offers discounts at local businesses and the chance to win prizes, including a night stay at Great Wolf Lodge and a $300 dining credit and cabana (valued at $1,600), and two tickets to the Tim McGraw Concert at Xcel Energy Center on April 20.

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A rts & Culture pened there. $20. For tickets, visit cyncitytours.com. Light the Park and Laser Show, 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 25 at Rice Park. The lighting of Rice Park officially kicks off the carnival. The first 200 to arrive receive a glow wand. The evening includes the ice carving contest, music, food and beverages. Vulcan Reveal, 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 27 at Landmark Center. Multi-block Ice Carving Competition, Jan. 25-27 at Rice Park. Teams work feverishly over 48 hours to create their masterpieces. Judging follows at 7 p.m. on Saturday. Snow Sculpture Competition, Jan. 26-28. Watch 3-person teams of snow sculptors transform large blocks of snow into whimsical creations. The winners are announced at 2 p.m. on Sunday. The sculptures will be on display through Feb. 4.

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Winter Carnival Memorabilia Display at the Landmark Center. See Winter Carnival memorabilia from ages past and learn stories from knowledgeable volunteers. The exhibit opens 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday, Jan. 26 and will be on display Jan. 26-28 and Feb. 1-3. Hours vary. Royal Coronation, 8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 26 at St. Paul RiverCentre. Witness the crowning of the 2024 Royal Family and rub elbows with King Boreas, Aurora Queen of Snows and the four Wind princes and princesses. Tickets are $30 and must be purchased in advance. Rondo Night, 5-9:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 1 at Landmark Center. The event features music and art from BIPOC artists, food and drawings for prizes. St. Paul Scavenger Hunts. The North Wind Hunt has 30 clues that take you to 30 places in St. Paul. The West

Wind Hunt at Phalen Park is designed for families. The South Wind Hunt features 30 clues that can be solved from the comfort of your home. The East Wind Hunt is the most challenging and includes a collection of puzzles to solve from various St. Paul locations. Kids’ & Family Day, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3 at Landmark Center. Kids will be able to play, watch performances, participate in art and craft activities, and more. Vendors will also be on site. Free. The jigsaw puzzle contest is at a new location this year. It takes place 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 27 at Union Depot. Come watch

teams of puzzle enthusiasts race to complete 500-piece puzzles in two hours, and 1,000-piece puzzles in three hours. There are pairs and family contests as well. Bring a gently used puzzle to swap or purchase a new one at the event. Concessions available. Vulcan Snow Park at the Fairgrounds. Visitors will find a snow maze, snow mountain playing area and the artistic creations of master snow carvers participating in the Minnesota State Snow Sculpting competition. The large, frosty sculptures are always stunning to see and make a great photo backdrop. Vulcan Fun Day is Sunday, Jan. 28. Admission and parking are free.

Fire & Ice Run/Walk 8-11 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 28. Adults may enter the 5K, 10K, 15K or 20K and youth (typically ages 4-10) may enter the kids run. Also available: a NoK (pay not to run). Cost to register is $40 through January 23; $45 after. $20 for the kids run. All participants receive a Winter Carnival hat, button and coupon book. The King Boreas Grande Day Parade begins at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 27. The route goes from West 7th at Smith Avenue, to 5th Street, to Washington, to 4th Street at Rice Park. Dozens of bands, floats and, of course, the newly crowned King Boreas and his Royal

Family will be there. Free cocoa at the Castle for Kids at Landmark Center after the parade. The Rock the Palace Dance Party begins at 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 27 at 317 on Rice Park, 317 Washington St. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at royalguards.org. Winter Carnival Cat Show, January 27-28, at the Roy Wilkins Exhibition Hall, 175 W. Kellogg Blvd. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, and 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday. Cost is $10 for adults and $7 for children. For more information, visit saintlycitycatclub.org. Winter Carnival / Page 8

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A rts & Culture

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Winter Carnival from page 7

The Orchid Society of Minnesota’s “Winter Carnival Orchid Show” is held Jan. 27-28 at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr. Judging is at 7 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 27. Vulcan vs. The Royal Guard Hockey Classic starts at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 28, at Doug Woog Arena in South St. Paul. Cash donations are suggested; non-expired food items will also be accepted. Hot & Cool Classics Concert, 2 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 28 at Landmark Cen-

ter. The St. Paul Civic Symphony will present a free concert featuring song and dance music by Ruth Gipps, Rachmaninoff and Duke Ellington. Frozen Family Fun Night, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 30 at Landmark Center. The event features a meet-and-greet with Ana, Elsa and Kristoff from 6-7 p.m., story time and Frozen singalong, snow activities with junior royalty and more. Free. Winter Carnival’s Day of Good is Friday, Feb. 2. The day will have many opportu-

nities to donate food, blankets or blood, and spread cheer into the community. The St. Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation has partnered with the Winter Carnival ambassadors and their Cold Hands, Warm Hearts drive. The Northwind Titan Trooper will be parked at the Landmark Center to collect the donations for the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center. Bring non-perishable food items and new or gently used mittens and hats. St. Paul Bouncing Team tryouts, 6-9 p.m., Friday, Feb. 2 at Landmark Center. Free. The St. Paul Bouncing team is a nonprofit organization that performs aerial

acrobatics at public and private social events throughout the year. This activity is inspired by an Inuit hunting tradition and is among the oldest performances in the Winter Carnival’s history. For more information, visit stpaulbouncingteam.org. The Vulcan Victory Torchlight Parade will weave its way through the city beginning at 5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3. The route is the same as the King Boreas Grande Day Parade, starting at West 7th at Smith Avenue and ending at Rice Park. After the parade, follow Vulcanus Rex and his Krewe to the steps of the Central Library for the ever-dramatic overthrow of Boreas. Stick

around afterward for fireworks and music. The Vulcan Victory Dance is 7:30-11:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3 at InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront, 11 E. Kellogg Blvd. The band High and Mighty will perform beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. Doggie Depot, 10 a.m.3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3 at Union Depot. Stop by for the crowning of the Canine King & Queen, giveaways, interviews with pet experts and more. Free. Friday Night Party Zone, 4-10 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3 at Rice Park. Join PJ the DJ for a dance party in the huge warming tent. Kids and Family Day, 11

a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3 at Landmark Center. PickA-Prize Bingo is 1-3 p.m. BEAR’ly Open Golf on Ice, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3 on White Bear Lake. Play a round on a course on the frozen lake. Proceeds benefit the White Bear Lake Food Shelf. Register at www.bearlyopen.org. Berners in the Park, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3 at Rice Park. Friendly dogs of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of the Greater Twin Cities will join the fun for Kids’ and Family Day. Visitors may pet and play with them. Free.

St. Paul public school district launches new literacy initiative eginning this year, St. Paul Public Schools (SPPS) is launching a new initiative – SPPS Reads – designed to help students who are struggling with reading. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, only a third of students in the district are proficient readers, and that number is down slightly from 2019. Like other districts across the state and nation, learning was negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to

school closures and distance learning. To help students get back on track and improve proficiency in the long run, the district is implementing a new scientifically based reading curriculum for grades K-2 that emphasizes phonetic comprehension. It’s also providing more resources for parents to help their children practice reading at home, and hosting community events to raise awareness on the importance of literacy. According to the National Research Council and the National Early Literacy Panel, shared

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telling them stories about people important to them, exploring the SPPS virtual library to find books that interest them, and asking them open-ended questions about what they’re reading. It also provides links to free read-aloud videos, apps for literacy and learning, and more. “It’s an everybody-issue and we’re coming at it with everybody, all to support kids in their ability to read in the information age,” said Craig Anderson, executive director of SPPS Office of Teaching and Learning. This initiative follows new legislation that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed into

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law in May 2023 that requires teachers to complete training in evidence-based reading instruction practices over the next two years. About $70 million in state funding will be distributed across the districts to make this possible. SPPS is already ahead of the curve, as it has trained more than 100 teachers in those practices since 2021. Trained teachers have been providing daily small group reading lessons to students in grades K-3, and as a result the number of students in those grades meeting grade level standards has jumped from 45-58%. “If you’re still learning how to read words at fourth grade it slows you down and that makes it harder to comprehend what you’re reading [in

all subjects],” said Anderson. “I taught sixth grade for 10 years and when kids couldn’t read, they would try to hide by faking it or looking at the pics or coming up with other ways to get attention. It really holds them back if they don’t have strong reading skills by the start of fourth grade.” Progress is measured by a statewide annual test for students in grades 3 through 8, and 10. SPPS has also had an internal screening program since 2017 that evaluates students’ skill levels in a variety of subjects three times a year. If a student isn’t meeting grade level standards, parents are contacted twice a year to help determine ways to intervene. For more information, visit spps.org/reads.

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Christmas remembrances I tend to be a Christmas maximalist. At least that’s what my husband Peter would say. Peter would dispense with the tree, the presents and most of the outings. He’d hang a few ornaments on a houseplant, have a nice meal and go to bed early. But Peter cares for me a lot and he knows how much I love Christmas. I want a live tree. If I can’t chop it down myself, I’ll haul it home from the hardware store. I want lights on the balcony and a little present for everyone. I want fancy new wrapping paper and pretty, old ornaments and a holiday setting on the table. I want to light too many candles, bake too many cookies and end up with a floor covered with ribbon and powdered sugar at the end of the night. Peter is very patient. And I want to get dressed up.

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Some of my best memories of Christmas involve my Auntie Jo. She and her family would drive up north to my grandparents on Christmas Eve with a car packed with presents and cousins and a mischievous dog. Thinking back on it now, I’m sure it was stressful for my Auntie Jo. But my memory is of the car pulling in, and Auntie Jo hugging everyone, her arms full of bags of unwrapped gifts and luggage. This was, for me, the official start of Christmas. Auntie Jo would head downstairs to wrap presents

and, at some point, the dog, Twinkie, would make a mad dash out the door. We’d all scour the neighborhood until we found Twinkie. Then Auntie Jo would go to change her clothes and emerge more resplendent than the Christmas tree. It was always a treat to see what my Auntie Jo would wear at Christmas. I knew there would be glitter or sequins, and probably both. It would be the sort of outfit a person would wear only for a very special day, and seeing Auntie Jo dressed up made it a special day for me. I understand that getting dressed up is not for everyone, and decorating a tree is a lot of work. Holiday preparations shouldn’t be a burden, something on

the must-do list when there are more important things to do. But every year, I think back on my Auntie Jo, who had such a long drive and so much to do (and such a naughty dog!), and how she would step into the living room, her splendorous get-up reflecting the Christmas lights. I received a lot of nice presents and we had wonderful meals but seeing her dressed in her Christmas finery was always a highlight for me. I am still lucky enough to see my Auntie Jo at Christmas. Although I will never wear sequins as well as she did, I do my best because dressing up is part of how I participate in Christmas. It helps

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to make this time of year memorable. When I light the candles on my mantle and string lights outside, it’s a recognition that the darkness of winter will pass. Like my aunt, I want to mark this

passage of time. I want to make this day different from other days. Dressing up for Christmas reminds me that we need some extra sparkle in this darkest time of year. Till next time.

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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 - January 2024 - Page 11

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Open enrollment Minnesota has open enrollment, which means families may choose a school that is not within their resident district. State applications are used for open enrollment, and nonresident districts must receive applications by January 15 for the following fall, with some exceptions. Families that apply to a school not assigned to them are responsible for their own transportation.

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Public schools Public schools are funded through taxes and operated by local school districts and a board of education. Each student is guaranteed enrollment and is assigned a school near where they live. Busing is free for those outside of walking distance. When selecting a public school, families may want to consider class sizes, studentteacher ratios, academic progress and extra-curricular activities. Magnet schools A magnet school is part of the public school system but has a curriculum focus that is used in all classes, such as environmental or STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Families should ask about

the school’s focus, transportation options and if there are additional fees for field trips or supplies.

Charter schools Private groups can get a charter to operate a school that uses alternative teaching methods and innovative curriculum. These schools typically have a smaller student population and a lower student-teacher ratio. Charter schools do not charge admission, nor do they have admission requirements to enroll students. They employ licensed teachers and offer services to special needs students. Charter school students are required to take state and national assessments. If the school does not meet academic performance requirements, the charter is

revoked and the school is closed. Parents should inquire about the teaching methodology used, how academic progress is measured, if there are any special enrollment requirements or fees, and if the site is the school’s permanent location.

Parochial schools Parochial schools are operated by a church or religious organization and have a curriculum that includes religious instruction. Class sizes and student-teacher ratio are usually small but tuition can be high. Parents should ask about tuition, scholarships, transportation, religious requirements or expectations, and if there are any additional expenses for uniforms or supplies.

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Page 12 - Downtown St. Paul Voice - January 2024

Online learning While online learning became standard during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, it is not a new model. Prior to the pandemic, some schools offered a full online program. Today, some school districts have added an online option as well. Colleges The nonprofit College Board offers the following to consider when choosing a college. Two-year or four-year school - At a two-year college, students can earn an associate degree. At a four-year college, students can earn a bachelor’s degree. Many students begin at a two-year college then transfer to a four-year college. Public or private: Many students exclude private colleges because they think they’re too expensive. However, financial aid can sometimes make private colleges as affordable as public colleges. Location: the distance to home should be considered. Does your student want to be close enough for meals and laundry, and to visit on weekends, or will they only come home on school breaks? Campus setting: Many students say that campus size and feel was a big part of their college choice. Visiting a college and talking to students is a great way to get to know a campus. Do most students stay on campus or do they commute to school? Does the campus exude school spirit? Cost: For many families, cost is a big concern. To offset the price of college, students should apply for financial aid and scholarships. Most students get some financial help from the government or the college itself. Majors: Students often think they must choose their major before they start college. This isn’t true. In fact, many students change their major more than once. However, for the undecided, the school should have several majors of interest to the student.