South St. Paul Packer hockey preview Page 4 Volume 18 | Number 12
High schoolers assist with national marketing campaign Jake Spitzack Staff Writer
A
group of students from South St. Paul Secondary, Two Rivers High School, and Simley High School are gaining real-world experience by assisting with a national marketing campaign for Dick’s Sporting Goods. The opportunity was made possible by a partnership between the TriDistrict Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) and Haworth Media and Marketing. The 13 students began the project in September and are expected to complete it by the end of January 2022. They’ve been observing the work of Haworth media professionals and will provide their own recommendations for Dick’s Sporting Goods’ 2022 Back to School campaign. Students began by visiting the Haworth office in downtown Minneapolis, and have met Haworth staff at the Evolve Workplace in West St. Paul every week since. They are learning about day-to-day work in the media industry, how to strategically use different types of media, and how to make presentations to clients. “I am so thankful to our partners at Haworth that have made this possible,” said Ben Kusch, program coordinator for TriDistrict CAPS. “Our students benefit from this experience by gaining authentic business skills that they will be able to take into their work in the future, including their internships in the spring semester.” CAPS / Page 2
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December 2021
Holiday Happenings The holiday season in South St. Paul officially begins Sunday, Nov. 28 with the annnual Light Up the Square community tree lighting celebration at Central Square Community Center, 100 7th Ave. N. The event features cocoa, caroling, visits from Santa, Mrs. Claus and Frosty, and holiday treats. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. The tree lighting is at 6 p.m. The annual Holiday Skate at Doug Woog Arena will take place 2-3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 19. This free event includes cookies by Mrs. Claus and a special performance by Blades N Motion Skating School. Skate rental is free with a non-perishable food donation for Neighbors, Inc. Holiday Events / Page 6
Your guide to holiday concerts, plays and festive events.
SSP City Council to adopt budget on Dec. 6 Jake Spitzack Staff Writer
T
he South St. Paul City Council will adopt its 2022 budget at its Dec. 6 meeting. The preliminary budget is $22.5 million, about $990,000 more than 2021, a 4.6% increase. However, the council is still trying to trim the budget and it may change by the meeting date. The largest bump is in the general fund, which finances the core functions of the city. The fund will increase by $958,000 to approximately $18 million. If approved as-is, the owner of a median valued home of $231,100 will pay $1,394 in city taxes, $129 more than 2021. The budget includes a 3.8% increase for public safety and a 4.7% increase for public works. It also includes a nearly 25% decrease in the Parks and Recreation department. “We’re proposing to eliminate a park supervisor position and one administrative position,” said South St. Paul Finance Director Clara Hilger. “The [Parks and Recreation] department came back to City Hall so managing the activities at Central Square is no longer their responsibility.” The parks department relocated from Central Square in July. The December 6 meeting will take place at 7 p.m. at City Hall. Information packets will be available by Dec. 3 at www.southstpaul.org.
City loosens development regulations, creates new mixed-use district Jake Spitzack Staff Writer
B
usinesses in the North Concord Street district are now freed from the shackles of confusing variances and lengthy approval processes thanks to a recent update of city zoning requirements. On Nov. 1, the South St. Paul City Council voted 7-0 to create the Mixed Markets and Makers (MMM) district, which
runs along Concord Street North between Wentworth Avenue and the city’s northern border with St. Paul. The looser regulations make it easier for business owners to invest in their properties and freshen up the area. The updates address construction, parking and signage. The MMM district is divided into four subdistricts, each with slightly varied regulations. The MMM-1 area is next to St. Paul and
is for lower-density buildings, such as single-family homes, small commercial buildings and apartment buildings. The MMM-2 area is around the former Cenex office building and has the most potential for redevelopment of larger commercial properties. MMM-3 is a small zone near the entrance to Kaposia Landing Park at the intersection of Concord Street and Bryant Avenue. This intersection was once
a streetcar stop and will be redeveloped to enhance the area around the entrance to the park. MMM-4 is the southern part of the district, ending at Wentworth Avenue. It has many shallow lots that are challenging to redevelop and currently houses a wide array of businesses. The city is allowing greater zoning flexibility to encourage creative development opportunities. According to a recent zon-
ing study of the district, the City discovered that some of its regulations were hampering redevelopment efforts. City staff found that it was difficult for business owners to invest in their buildings without petitioning for variances. The new MMM district is designed to support pedestrian-friendly development and has looser parking requirements that are more consistent with other major cities across the U.S. Essen-
tially, commercial buildings are no longer required to have the same number of parking spaces as before. This applies to apartment complexes as well. For example, one-bedroom and studio apartments now require one parking stall instead of two. “We’re allowing the private sector to take the lead when it comes to sizing parking lots for commercial Zoning changes / Page 2
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CAPS from page 1
The TriDistrict CAPS program is in its fourth year and offers work experience programs to high school juniors and seniors in South
Submitted photo
Haworth marketing staff have been teaching the CAPS students how to integrate different types of media into a marketing plan.
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St. Paul, West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, Inver Grove Heights and Eagan. Courses are offered in business and entrepreneurship, health care and transportation. The Business and Entrepreneurship course is in its third year. TriDistrict CAPS also
matches interns with local businesses at no cost. Internships can be paid or unpaid. For more information on the CAPS program, contact Kusch at 612-267-2760, bkusch@tridistrictce.org.
Zoning changes from page 1
businesses,” said South St. Paul City Planner Michael Healy. “Whether a set number of parking spaces is required by the city code or not, most businesses will try to provide as many parking spaces as their site can reasonably accommodate in order to meet their customers’ anticipated needs. The private sector has access to much more up-todate information about consumer parking demand and needs.” He added that the City Council must still approve final parking plans for larger uses and instances that require a conditional use permit. The study also revealed four outdated signage regulations, prompting the City Council to remove them from the code. The regulations dated to 2003 and required signs to be 10-15 feet off the ground and a maximum of 3 feet wide. They also addressed signs made of individual letters, as opposed to all lettering being on one panel. Now, signs can be shorter/smaller, and businesses may add a logo without receiving a conditional use permit. The zoning study was completed in May, in partnership with Michael Lamb Consulting, LLC. The project was funded by a $30,000 Statewide Health Improvement Partnership grant from Dakota County.
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Fare for All Fare for All, a community program that offers affordable groceries, is offering holiday packs 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 21 at Central Square Community Center, 100 7th Ave. N., South St. Paul. Food packs are $30 and include a 6-7-pound bone-in ham, 2.5-pound boneless rotisserie chicken, a 1.5-pound Hormel pork tenderloin and more. No registration required. For more information, visit www.fareforall.org.
Free recycling resources Dakota County residents living in multifamily properties are eligible to receive free recycling bins, labels, tote bags, educational materials and more. The Dakota County Multifamily Recycling Program is open to those living in apartments, condominiums, townhomes
and independent senior living residences. For more information, contact Cassandra Johnson at 651-552-4118 or cjohnson@wspmn.gov.
Library events Cookbook Club, 7-8 p.m., Monday, Dec. 6. South St. Paul foodies are invited to join this event via Zoom to bake from the cookbook “Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day” and share their thoughts with the group. Recipes can be found at https://artisanbreadinfive. com. Book Club, 7-8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 9, on Zoom. The title is “The Sense of an Ending” by Julian Barnes. For more details, visit www. ssplibrary.org.
Meeting dates The South St. Paul City Council meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Monday of each month in the council
chambers at City Hall, 125 3rd Ave. N. For agendas and city council member contact information, visit www. southstpaul.org or call 651554-3284. The Special School District 6 School Board meets at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of each month. For agendas and school board member contact information, visit www. sspps.org or call 651-4579400. The South St. Paul-Inver Grove Heights Rotary Club meets at 12:15 p.m. each Wednesday. For more information, visit https:// rotary5960.org/clubInfo/ south-st-paul-inver-groveheights. The South St. Paul Lions Club meets at 7:15 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month (September May). For more information, visit https://ssplions.org.
Photo by Billie Ashton
Tournament co-directors Patrick Kelly and Blake Iverson
Kaposia Pro Shop Raises $8K for charity Kaposia Park Disc Golf Course Pro Shop in South St. Paul hosted the Mcbeth Mulligan Madness tournament on October 9 to raise funds for the Paul McBeth Foundation, which introduces disc golf to areas of the world where there is little or no access to the sport. The event attracted more than 60 players and raised more than $8,600 for the foundation. This was the Pro Shop’s first organized fundraiser. It will become an annual event.
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South St. Paul Voice - December 2021 - Page 3
S ports Lace ’em up! It’s our annual girls Packer hockey preview
Your community news and information source
John E. Ahlstrom Staff Writer
R
ight on schedule, Old Man Winter is on the prowl. Temperatures are dipping, snow flurries are cause for concern, daily activities at Doug Woog Arena are brisk, and with 571 victories – the most in the history of prep girls hockey in Minnesota – Dave Palmquist is revved up and ready to go. Add it all up and it’s time for our annual South St. Paul High School girls hockey team preview. Before we turn our attention to this year’s squad, it is appropriate to reflect briefly on the 2020-21 season. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the season did not start until January 15 and all teams were limited to 18 games in the regular season rather than the normal 25. The Packers were 8-2 and finished second in the Metro East Conference and finished the regular season with an 11-6-1 record. Senior defenseman Makenna Deering led the team in scoring with 14 goals
and 12 assists and is now playing Division I hockey at Bemidji State University. Her senior teammate Justice Rambaum added five goals and 12 assists for the Packers. Senior Ella Reynolds who led the team in scoring in the 2019-20 season, suffered a torn ACL during the soccer season and did not return to action until the sectional playoffs. South St. Paul earned a first round bye and defeated Mahtomedi 4-0 in the section semifinals. That set up a barnburner with Gentry Academy in the Class 4A section title game that was played in front of a full house at Woog Arena. Reynolds was back in the lineup and scored South St. Paul’s first goal and assisted on the goal that tied the game 4-4 after two periods. But there was instant heartbreak when Gentry scored the winner at 12:52 of the third period. Deering, Rambaum and Reynolds were lost to graduation, but losing great players and leaders is an annual ritual for a program that seeks excellence. The Packers
scored 61 goals in the 2021 season, and 38 of those goals were scored by underclassmen who are now looking forward to carving out a legacy of their own. The presumption by most hockey pundits, including Coach Palmquist, is that the most important position on the ice is the goaltender. Junior Delaney Norman is the latest in a long line of quality net minders. Now in her fourth season as the starting goaltender, she is likely to break nearly all of the goaltender records, which thankfully are carefully preserved in the South St. Paul High School archives. These are Norman’s numbers entering the 2021-22 season with the current record in parenthesis: games played: 70 (103); wins: 45 (65); shutouts: 19 (22); save percentage: 91.9 (92.6); and minutes played: 3613 (5267). “You run out of superlatives when talking about Delaney,” said Palmquist, who considers her a Division I prospect. “Her daily work ethic and preparation are
This year’s captains are (left to right) Sarah Wincentsen, Ashley Jerikovsky, Lilie Ramirez and Kayla Matuzak. elite and it’s comforting to know that we have a chance to win with her in goal. She makes two or three phenomenal saves per game and that often proves to be the difference between winning and losing.” Sophomore Molly Jeffrey returns as the #2 goaltender. She recorded one shutout
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tallied seven goals and seven assists. Pachl scored five goals and added four assists as an eighth grader. “Ramirez has signed on to play Division I hockey at Minnesota-Mankato next year,” said Palmquist. “Both ‘Lilies’ pace themselves very well and we might get 40 minutes a game from each of
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last season and Palmquist is comfortable with her between the pipes. The #1 defensive pairing for the Packers includes senior co-captain Lilie Ramirez and ninth grader Lily Pachl. Both are equally effective on both ends of the ice sheet as evidenced by their numbers from last season. Ramirez
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South St. Paul opened the season with a 2-2 tie against Eastview, a team that was ranked #9 in the Class 2A preseason poll. The Packers got goals from Jerikovski and Danielson, and Norman recorded 43 saves. “We were very pleased with that outcome,” said Palmquist. “Our season expectations are always high. Our goal as a team is to do the work to get better, play every game to the last whistle and peak as we enter the post-season.” In essence, Palmquist’s goals mirror those of his four captains. That is not surprising. It’s a 28-year formula that is responsible for
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establishing one of the finest prep hockey programs in the State of Minnesota. Team assessment: The Packers have a fine blend of seasoned veterans and youth. The team captains will provide positive leadership and set the tone. Although still in junior high school, Pachl, Vesper and Johnson appear ready to contribute and make their presence known as well. And they will have Delaney Norman in goal. The Packers were ranked #4 in the Class 1A preseason poll and, barring injuries, they will make their 16th appearance in the state tournament, adding another year to a state record they already hold.
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got some valuable playing time last season. She loves hockey and is mature beyond her years. We think Paige has a brilliant future and she has earned her spot on the second line.” When the four captains – Ramirez, Matuzak, Jerikovski and Wincentsen – were asked to reveal their top career highlight, each cited the 2019 sectional championship victory over St. Paul United. Why? Because it resulted in a trip to the state tournament! The four were also unanimous when asked what their primary goal is entering the 2021 season: earning another trip to the state tournament.
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shy away from sacrificing her body to block shots,” said Palmquist. “Over the past two seasons, Sarah has improved dramatically and she will also see action on the power play and the penalty kill. Alyiah is a bit of late comer, but we really like her speed and quickness and the energy she brings.” Senior co-captain Ashley Jerikovsky, who scored nine goals last season, is in her fourth season on the varsity and will center the second line. Her linemates include ninth grader Bailey Vesper and seventh grader Paige Johnson. “Ashley is a very strong skater and she is a sniper who likes to mix it up around the net,” said Palmquist. “Bailey
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them. In our opener against Eastview, Ramirez was on the ice for the final 13 minutes of the game.” Junior Kylie Evazich and sophomore Eva Beck will serve as the #2 defensive pairing. According to Palmquist, Evazich and Beck are strong, physical players and, like the #1 pairing, both shoot the puck with authority. Junior defenseman Inga Oelerking will also get considerable playing time. The first line will be centered by senior co-captain Kayla Matuzak, with junior co-captain Sarah Wincentsen and junior Alyiah Danielson on the wings. “Kayla is a great leader and the ultimate team player. She plays physical and does not
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South St. Paul Voice - December 2021 - Page 5
H oliday Event Guide
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Holiday Flower Show The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory’s annual Holiday Flower Show is presented Dec. 4-Jan. 9 at the Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul. Novelty poinsettias will fill the Sunken Garden. Several new varieties include Orange Glow, the first truly orange poinsettia, and Christmas Mouse, a red poinsettia with rounded bracts that resemble the shape of mouse ears. Admission is free, although reservations are requested. For more information, call 651-4878201 or visit www.comozooconservatory.org.
Union Depot - Hub for the Holidays Union Depot, 214 4th St. E., St. Paul, will light its Christmas tree at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 4, followed by a fireworks display outside and a screening of the movie “Elf ” inside. Festivities began at 4:30 p.m. Free. The 8th annual European Christmas Market is held on the East Plaza Nov. 26-Dec. 19. Guests may shop at more than 40
vendor kiosks and purchase European-inspired food and delicacies. Entertainment includes live music, dancers, Storytimes with Santa and a visit from Krampus. Hours are 4-9 p.m., Fridays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturdays, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sundays. For more information, call 651-202-2700 or visit www. stpaulchristmasmarket.org.
The annual Holiday Bake Sale is held 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 11, featuring cookies, candy and other items from more than 30 local bakeries and food vendors, and live entertainment. The first 300 receive a free gift bag. “North Pole Express” returns Dec. 3-5 and 9-12. Attendees will be able to see
special workshops, Santa’s house and elves preparing toys for the big day. Ticket schedules and costs are available at www.261.com. Frozen movie night is Saturday, Dec. 18. Activities start at 3 p.m., followed by a showing of Disney’s “Frozen II” at 5 p.m. Free. For more information, visit www.uniondepot.org.
‘Blizzard’ at Circus Juventas Circus Juventas, 1270 Montreal Ave., St. Paul, will present “Blizzard,” Dec. 10-19. Shows are at 7 p.m., Fridays, 1 and 7 p.m., Saturdays, and 1 p.m., Sundays. When a trio of careless elves, The Big Book of Holiday Stories and a blizzard meet up, winter chaos is set loose on the North Pole. This performance will take a trip through some of the most beloved holiday stories. Tickets are $40 for adults, $30 for children and seniors. For more information, call 651-6998229 or visit www.circusjuventas.org.
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H oliday Event Guide Festival of Lights “The Beginning” is a free 12-minute light show that uses the Cathedral’s 150-foot-tall eastern façade as the backdrop to tell the Christmas story. View from Cathedral Hill Park or on the Cathedral’s Facebook livestream. The show continuously loops from 6-10 p.m., Dec. 15-17, and 7-10 p.m., Dec. 18-19. “Starry Night” is an immersive, indoor presentation that will surround guests in dynamic images accompanied by a musical score. Hours are 6-10 p.m., Dec. 15-17, and 7-10 p.m., Dec. 18-19. Tickets are $15 per person or $40 for groups of up to five people, and can be purchased at eventbrite. com or the website below. The Cathedral will host a holiday market Dec. 1618. For more information, call 612-414-9661 or visit www.cathedralheritagefoundation.org.
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house, and many other attractions are featured at the GLOW Holiday Festival. This great Minnesota holiday get-together is being held now through Jan. 2 at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Participants walk through the fairgrounds to view the bright and festive seasonal displays. GLOW features a 3-story ice palace, sELFie Plaza for taking pictures, bike-powered tree, live music by local church choirs, sky glider rides and much more. GLOW will host several “partner” nights, and $1 from each ticket will benefit a local charity. Hours are 5-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Entry times are reserved every hour. Participants can enter at any time within the hour for which their ticket was purchased
and stay as long as they like. Those who miss their window will be free to enter at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.75 for adults, $12.75 for children ages 5-12, and must be purchased in advance at www.glowholiday.com. A food court is also offered. For more information, call 612-930-3665 or visit www. glowholiday.com.
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In-person shopping returns to the Landmark Center, 75 W. Fifth St., St. Paul, when it hosts its 43rd annual old-fashioned holiday bazaar Dec. 2-4. Customers will find homemade products from local artisans including jewelry, decor, woven and wearable art, children’s toys and clothes, handmade
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In addition to shopping, guests can enter to win prizes donated by the vendors, and enjoy festive music. Hungry shoppers can also purchase treats from vendors. The bazaar is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday,
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lotions, soaps, food items and more. Continuing this year is “twilight shopping” from 4-7 p.m., Thursday and Friday. Shoppers will receive a complimentary refreshment to enjoy while they browse.
Cardboard boxes — flatten Gift boxes Cards & envelopes Catalogs & magazines Paper cartons Bottles Metal cans
Enroll at saintpaul.edu Check out our upcoming Information Sessions in December by visiting saintpaul.edu/infosession.
Document available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by contacting 651.350.3008 or AccessResources@saintpaul.edu. Saint Paul College is an Equal Opportunity employer
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Stringed lights Garland & tinsel Plastic bags & utensils Batteries Bubble wrap & plastic air pillows Electronics Artificial trees Wrapping paper Ribbons & bows Tissue paper Know where it goes at www.dakotacounty.us, search Recycling Guide. South St. Paul Voice - December 2021 - Page 7
S ample St. Paul
Fitzgerald Theatre
10 E. Exchange St. St. Paul 612-338-8388 www.first-avenue.com
City and Colour with Lucie Silvas will perform at 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 1. Tickets start at $37.
History Center 345 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-259-3000 www.mnhs.org
“Sinclair Lewis: 100 Years of Main Street” - Discover the legacy of Sinclair Lewis, the Nobel Prize-winning Minnesota author whose literary works and social critiques of American life ring true today.
“Extraordinary Women” - Discover several extraordinary Minnesotan women who changed their communities. “Our Home: Native Minnesota” - Learn how Minnesota’s Native communities have retained cultural practices, teachings and values, and an essential connection to home. Other exhibits include “Minnesota’s Greatest Generation,” “Then Now Wow” and “Weather Permitting.” The Center is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., ThursdaySunday. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students and $8 for children ages five to 17.
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History Theatre
30 10th St. E. St. Paul 651-292-4323 www.historytheatre.com
“Christmas of Swing” is presented through Dec. 19. In this reimagining of the History Theatre’s holiday classic, the Andrews Sisters read letters from men and women serving overseas during World War II. Tickets start at $45. The performance will also be streamed Dec. 6-19. Streaming tickets are $25 for individuals and $40 for a household.
Landmark Center
75 5th St. W. St. Paul 651-292-3225 www.landmarkcenter.org
The Landmark Center will host its 43rd annual
Photo of The Andrews Sisters, courtesy of History Theatre
“Christmas of Swing” is presented through Dec. 19 at the History Theatre. The Andrews Sisters read letters from men and women serving overseas during World War II. Old-fashioned Holiday Bazaar 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Dec. 2-3, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Dec. 4. The event features 75 booths of handcrafted items, including jewelry, paintings, soaps and more, and fes-
tive music. Food will also be available. Tickets are $5. “Twilight shopping” is 4-7 p.m. both days. During this time attendees receive a free refreshment (wine, hot cider, etc.) with admission.
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Storyteller J.B. Eckert will stream a reading of an original Christmas story on Dec. 2 and 19. Free. “Santa’s Workshop” is held 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 12. Have your picture taken with Santa,
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S ample St. Paul play games, make gifts and enjoy readings of classic children’s Christmas stories. Free. Star of the North will perform its holiday concert at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 15. Free. Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus will perform its “There Will Be Light” concert at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 16-17. Tickets start at $50. Dan Newton and Friends will perform at 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 17, at the F. K. Weyerhaeuser Auditorium. Tickets start at $20.
MN Children’s Museum 10 7th St. W. St. Paul 651-225-6000 www.mcm.org
The featured exhibit is “Storyland,” with play space designs based on children’s literary classics. Other exhibits and activities include The Scramble, The Studio, Creativity Jam, Sprouts, Backyard, Our World, Forces at Play,
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Super Awesome Adventures, Imaginopolis and the Tip Top Terrace. “Reducing Inequality Through the Power of Play” is a free virtual event held noon-1 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 30. In this panel discussion, three child development experts will address the play gap that many children of color experience and discuss ways to overcome it. Registration required. The museum is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Wed.-Sun. Tickets are $14.95.
MN Museum of American Art 350 Robert St. N. St. Paul 651-797-2571 www.mmaa.org
The following exhibitions are only on view from outside the Pioneer Endicott building, installed in the windows on Robert and 4th streets, and in the Ecolab entrance in the skyway. “Sutures” is on display until Jan. 29, 2022. The exhibit displays work from artists creating
photo- and film-based art that expands upon still and moving images. “Transformation: Art from the Inside” will also be on display until Jan. 29. The exhibit features artwork by incarcerated people that reflects their personal transformations and restorations.
Ordway Center 345 Washington St. St. Paul www.ordway.org 651-224-4222
“Say It! Sing It! Play It! In Cherokee” is a 45-minute video show and sing-along aimed to help reclaim the Cherokee language. It can be streamed through Nov. 30 from the Ordway’s website. $10. “Fiddler on the Roof ” will be presented at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 30-Dec. 5 and Dec. 7-12, and 2 p.m., Dec. 4-5 and 11-12. Tickets start at $48. Jim Brickman will perform “The Gift of Christmas” at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 3. Tickets start at $33.
“Lightwire Theater’s A Very Electric Christmas” will be presented at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 15. Tickets start at $23.
View dinosaurs and fossils from around the world in exhibits, movies and the recently expanded Dinosaurs & Fossils gallery.
Cantus presents “Christmas with Cantus: Three Tales of Christmas” at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 17. Tickets start at $12.
“Ultimate Dinosaurs” is on display until April 10, 2022. Learn about dinosaur discoveries and scientific research that shows how continental drift altered the landscape of the ancient world.
“Summer: The Donna Summer Musical” will be presented at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 28-31, and 2 p.m., Dec. 30.
Park Square Theatre 20 W. 7th Pl. St. Paul
www.parksquaretheatre.org
Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society will perform at 7:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 29. A livestream is also available.
Science Museum of Minnesota 120 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-221-9444 www.smm.org
“Days of the Dinosaurs” is now on display.
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Current Omnitheater films are “Dinosaurs of Antarctica” and “Oceans: Our Blue Planet.” Theater tickets are $9.95, with discounts for children and seniors. Museum tickets are $19.95, with discounts for children and seniors.
Xcel Center
199 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-726-8240 www.xcelenergycenter.com
James Taylor and his All-Star Band will perform at 7:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 29. Tickets start at $59.50. Radio Station 101.3 KDWB is holding its annual Jingle Ball concert at
7:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 6. Tickets start at $28. Disney On Ice presents “Let’s Celebrate” at 7 p.m., Dec. 9; 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 10; 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 11; and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., Dec. 12. Tickets start at $20. WWE Monday Night RAW will take place at 6:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 13. Tickets start at $25. Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., Monday, Dec. 27. Tickets start at $36.50. Thomas Rhett will perform at 8:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 31. Tickets start at $55.
Roy Wilkins Auditorium
175 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-265-4800 www.rivercentre.org
“St. Paul Ice Fishing and Winter Sports Show” is held 1-8 p.m., Dec. 3; 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Dec. 4, and 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Dec. 5. Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for ages 6-12.
Please call individual site for specific building information Professionally managed by Trellis Management Co. Waiting List
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Waiting lists change and may be open. Please call the property to inquire. Albright Townhomes Minneapolis Chancellor Manor Burnsville Cornerstone Creek Apartments Golden Valley For developmentally disabled individuals. Dale Street Place St. Paul Diamond Hill Townhomes Minneapolis Elliot Park Apartments Minneapolis Franklin Lane Apartments Anoka Hamline St. Paul Hanover Townhomes St. Paul Haralson Apple Valley Hopkins Village Apartments Hopkins Lincoln Place Apartments Mahtomedi Oakland Square Minneapolis Olson Townhomes Minneapolis Park Plaza Apartments Minneapolis Prairie Meadows Eden Prairie Ramsey Hill St. Paul Raspberry Ridge Apartments Hopkins Slater Square Apartments Minneapolis Spirit on Lake Minneapolis Talmage Green Minneapolis Trinity Apartments Minneapolis Trinity on Lake Minneapolis Unity Place Brooklyn Center Vadnais Highland Townhomes Vadnais Heights Veterans and Community Minneapolis Housing - Sober Housing Brustad Place, aka Veterans East Minneapolis Visitation Place St Paul
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South St. Paul Voice - December 2021 - Page 9
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Neighbors, Inc. Charlie Thompson President & CEO
On January 13, 1972, the first meeting of the Association for Personal Help (which had no official name) convened in South St. Paul. It included 18 representatives from Clark Memorial, First Presbyterian, First United Methodist, Holy
Trinity, Luther Memorial and St. John Vianney. On February 10, 1972, the group met again and discussed potential names for the organization. The name “Neighbors” was the unanimous choice. Next year, Neighbors will
celebrate 50 years of providing opportunities for our neighbors to thrive by connecting volunteers to people in need. We continue to be an association for personal help and have evolved to meet the changing needs of our community during each of the past 50 years. Many of our current services began during our formative years. Our first food shelf was at St. John Vianney. Our Clothes Closet Thrift Store evolved from a thrift store operated by the Presbyterian Women’s Clothing Store. A “telephone committee” that answered calls from those in need used 455-5000, the same number
Postscript
Old Friends
I spent yesterday with old friends. It used to be that I would follow the use of “old friends” with the disclaimer that they were not really old. This no longer feels neces-
sary. If they are old friends of mine, I now have to say, objectively, they are pretty old. The occasion, if you want to call it that, was driving my oldest friend, Andrew, to his colonoscopy, which certainly sounds like an old
Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com
Happy Holidays... Together we can build a stronger community.
Proudly representing residents in West St. Paul, South St. Paul, Mendota, Mendota Heights and Lilydale.
Rick Hansen State Representative • District 52A
Your opinion matters!
Contact me at 651.451.1189 or rick@votehansen.com, or follow me on Twitter: @reprickhansen Prepared and paid for by People for Hansen, 1007 15th Avenue N., South St. Paul MN 55075
we use today. In the years that followed, the organization continued to grow. Programs and services came and went. Staff and board members served and moved on. Neighbors occupied several different locations around South St. Paul before settling in its permanent location in 2012. What has stayed the same over the years is the support of our community in the form of volunteering time and donating food, money and other material goods — neighbors serving neighbors. That continues to be the legacy of Neighbors, Inc. During our golden anniversary year, we will contin-
Feliz Navidad...
Rick Hansen
Support Your Community Newspaper! A tribe is defined as a group of people having a common character or interest. In today’s day and age it has also come to mean supporters and we invite you to be one of ours. Since 1966, we’ve proudly and effectively covered the issues most important to our community. We ask our loyal readers to consider donating a small amount to help us continue publishing community news that informs, entertains and inspires. Could you send $10 a year...or more? Every dollar helps. To contribute, mail your check to St. Paul Publishing Co., 1643 S. Robert St., Suite 60B, West St. Paul, MNSt. 55118, or call us at 651-457-1177 with|your credit card number. Mailed subscriptions Paul Publishing Company www.stpaulpublishing.com | 651-457-1177 are available for $21.50 per year. Thanks for your support!
Page 10 - South St. Paul Voice - December 2021
donors. If you have memories or photos to share, we invite you to send them to us at info@neighborsmn. org. Our celebration will culminate with a 2-day community-wide celebration, September 16-17, 2022. All are welcome to attend. We hope you can make it. As we prepare for our milestone anniversary, join me in reflecting on the past five decades of service to the community. As we do so, let us also look forward to a day when we have transformed our community, all are nourished and we have accomplished what our founders set out to do so many years ago.
person’s activity. I had been Clay told me about his faMy memory is nowhere badgering him for months. ther, who is not doing well, near as good as Clay’s, probAfter he finally capitulated, and I told him about my ably because I don’t spend a it took him months to get an parents, who are. It seemed lot of time reminiscing. But appointment. Then he asked surprisingly effortless, talk- visiting with Clay was a good if I would drive him, and I ing to this person whom I reminder of how quickly the could hardly say no after all really have not been in touch years are swallowed up, how of that. Of course, I wouldn’t with for more than half my much time has passed. New have said no under any cir- life. The years between our friends only know the person cumstances. He is my oldest adolescence and yesterday I am today. Old friends know friend, after all. afternoon seemed to melt all the previous versions of I was going to have to wait away, leaving me with this me, and sometimes that is a for Andrew so I contacted curious feeling of stepping comfort. Other times it’s a Clay — another old friend back in time. little scary. Sometimes I like whom I hadn’t seen in ages Clay is in touch with peo- to think that I have always — for pizza and a chat. Clay ple I haven’t seen since high been exactly as I am, right is funny and came up with school, and it was fun to hear down to my hair color. a number of catchy names about them. He’s always had Andrew’s colonoscopy for a get-together organized a good memory and a sharp turned out well, although around Andrew’s colonos- eye for detail. Some of our he has to go back in three copy, none of which would mutual friends, he said, years. I know he’ll forget, be polite to repeat inTogether a family we seemed exactly the same and it will be my responsibilcan build a stronger community. newspaper, so I will let you — only their hair color apity to both remind him and Proudly representing residents in West St. Paul, South St. Paul, Mendota, Mendota Heights and Lilydale. imagine. We met at a pizza peared to have significantly get him there again. place at a time when no one changed — while others had “We’ll have to get togethelse was remotely interested aged more noticeably. Clay er again soon,” I told Clay. in eating, farState too late for described seeing 52A someone “Even before Andrew’s next Representative • District lunch and much too early he’d not seen in years. colonoscopy!” Your opinion matters! for dinner. I discovered that “It was like I could see the Clay agreed, and I know 651.451.1189 or the time it takes Contact to have me a atperson I knew, looking out we will. It’s nice to think rick@votehansen.com, colonoscopy and recover from this or oldfollow person’s face,” we’ll have that to look forme on Twitter: @reprickhansen from it is just about ideal for he told me. I knew what ward to. Prepared and paid for by People for Hansen, two old friends to 1007 reconnect heSouth meant, I wondered Till next time. 15th Avenue N., St. Paul and MN 55075 and share a pizza. I highly where I fell on the spectrum. recommend it. (I didn’t ask.)
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ue to serve our community through our programs and services, but we will also take time to celebrate our milestones, our history and the people who have helped make Neighbors what it is today. We will celebrate our community by visiting our partners, including churches, city leaders, businesses and other entities that have supported us these past 50 years. We will unveil a mural commemorating a half century of memories, leaving room for many more memories that will be made in the years to come. We will hear from past leaders of the organization and capture the memories of volunteers and
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Happy Holidays Happy Holidays from the South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force. December is an especially fun month with its holiday sights, smells and traditions. We all have holiday memories and traditions, regardless of what holiday we are celebrating, but this is one of our favorites. The community of South St. Paul has a variety of holiday traditions. While some have come and gone, many remain strong. Who is not excited to see the snowflakes and snowflake banners go up on Southview Boulevard, or to pick out the perfect tree at the South St. Paul Lions Club tree lot? While not all holiday events are back this year, we’re launching a new tradition this year. Here are
some ways the community can celebrate together this holiday season. Announcing: Jingle Grams! They’re part of the CommUNITY Grams program that offered Grams for Valentine’s Day, Kaposia Days and Halloween. Grams spread positive messages throughout the community and can be sent to family, friends and others in South St. Paul. The message can be up to 100 words of encouragement, good news or wishes for a good day or happy holiday. Forms are available at www.southstpaul.org (on the event calendar), at South St. Paul City Hall, 125 3rd Ave. N., or by contacting Deb Griffith at 651-554-3230 or Deb. griffith@southstpaul.org.
Once the form is completed, return it to City Hall, along with the donation to the task force. On Saturday, Dec. 18, task force elves will deliver the Jingle Grams in a festive holiday bag that includes fun and tasty treats. All proceeds will benefit the activities that the South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force hosts throughout the year. Join Mayor Jimmy Francis and the City of South St. Paul at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 28 at Central Square Community Center as we kick off the holiday season with the Light Up the Square annual community tree lighting celebration. This event features cocoa, caroling and the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Santa, Mrs. Claus and Frosty will be there to
help task force members hand out treats for the little ones. The Annual Holiday Skate at Doug Woog Arena will take place 2-3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 19. Join the task force and friends for some skating and fun. This free event includes cookies by Mrs. Claus and a special performance by Blades N Motion Skating School. If you need skates, rental is free with a nonperishable food donation for Neighbors, Inc. Come early, as there are limited number of pairs available. Happy Holidays from the City of South St. Paul and the South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force. We hope you make many wonderful memories this holiday season while staying safe.
Memories of Christmas Magic Lois Glewwe Contributor
H
olidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas evoke warm and wonderful memories of days long ago and call to mind the magic of winters past. For people like me who grew up in South St. Paul, memories may include the moonlit silence of being the last one to take a final twirl around an outdoor ice rink after a late-night skate under the stars. For others it could be the bright winter sun, and cold, snowy thrill of a slippery sled ride down the Jefferson hill. Some will recall a frozen-toed hike home from Wakota Arena after South St. Paul won the most important game of the season, and others the joy of snuggling up next to the fireplace at the South St. Paul Library on the day they unveiled the Christmas collection of children’s books with stories from around the world. For this writer, the season brings to life a magical Christmas visit that happened on 15th Avenue South many years ago. Christmas for me when I was a child was a wonderful time that I anticipated with joy. Learning my lines for the Christmas program at church, decorating the tree, looking through the Montgomery Ward Christmas catalogue for toys and helping Mom bake cookies were my daily chores. I remember one special Christmas, however, when there was only one gift that I really wanted, even though I knew it was something I could never have. It was the
most beautiful Tiny Tears doll ever and it belonged to my cousin, Lynda Patet, who was older than I and quite grown up. Sometimes Lynda would let me hold the precious doll when I was at her house, but never for very long, and she always made sure that Tiny Tears was put safely back in a secure place after my brief time with her. I don’t know why that particular doll captured my attention so, but I can still remember the intense longing I had to have it for my own. Christmas Eve that year arrived just as a soft, beautiful snow began to fall. Mom bundled me in my winter coat, even though my parents and I only had to walk across 15th Avenue to get to my grandparents’ little house. The family crowded into the tiny living room to open presents and eat Grandma’s dark, molassessweet fruitcake filled with raisins and currants. I had so many gifts to open that I couldn’t count them all. As the only child around — none of my troublesome nieces and nephew had been born yet — I was in my glory. But when the night came to an end, I still had an aching desire for Lynda’s Tiny Tears doll. It wasn’t long before I grew sleepy. Daddy picked me up, pushed me into my coat and lifted me up to carry me home to bed. As we headed across the street to our house, he suddenly stopped and became quiet. He looked up into the snowy starlit sky and said, “Shh, wasn’t that the bells of Santa’s sleigh I just heard?”
I perked up my sleepy head and stared into the darkness. “I think he just flew over our house,” he added. “Be still and listen.” Sure enough, in my sleepy head, the sound of sleigh bells rang from far away and I could imagine that I saw the hooves of the reindeer as they rounded the skyline. I had forgotten all about Santa in the excitement of opening presents and now all I could do was stare up at the snowy sky in wonder. Daddy looked down and smiled and we continued our walk across the snow-filled street. As we approached the steps to our front porch, he stopped and gasped. He pointed down to the steps. “Look! Lois, I was right. These must be Santa’s footsteps.” Right there on the snowcovered steps to our little front porch were big deep footprints left from what must surely have been Santa’s big boots. They led to the side of the porch, where I could see a gray and blue doll buggy with a bright red bow tied on the handle. Daddy put me down and told me to see if Santa had left something for me. I approached the buggy carefully, almost afraid of this evidence of a visit from a sky-flying Santa. Daddy kept encouraging me though. As I peered into the buggy, I could see that there was something tucked deep beneath the covers. Daddy told me to see what it was, so I carefully drew back the baby blanket and was absolutely and totally stunned to find Lynda’s Tiny Tears doll. She was dressed in a blue velvet
The author with her 1952 Christmas gift. coat and bonnet, with her silk pink dress underneath and her wonderful little pink shoes tucked inside blue velvet boots. It was the very doll I’d longed for, and I will never forget the awesome sense of joy and wonder that flooded through me. How had Santa known? How had he convinced Lynda to give her up? Who had made her the beautiful blue coat? I turned to Daddy with a look of total and complete happiness. He quickly hugged me and turned to bring both me and the beautiful buggy into the front door, where I could unbundle the doll and play with her beneath our brightly lit Christmas tree until falling asleep and being carried off to bed. Even today, so many years later, I still recall how happy I was at receiving an unexplainable gift, delivered to me by a father whose footprints bore a remarkable
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similarity to the trail of prints left by the never seen Santa Claus. As families a gather for and gift boutique friendly flower Vintage South St. Paul celebrations Records, this bountiful season, may Turntables each one capture the magic, & Stereo relive the memories, and Equipment come together to give a child an unexplainable gift that will never be forgotten. Call 651-248-7274 a friendly flower and gift boutique
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cut flowers, plants, gifts & more 141 4th St. East, Suite LL1 Basement level Historic Pioneer Endicott Building 651.272.9632 • apfposies@gmail.com www.apfposies.com South St. Paul Voice - December 2021 - Page 11
Make Your Season Bright!
Page 12 - South St. Paul Voice - December 2021