South St. Paul Voice February 2023

South St. Paul

Job fair comes to Secondary School

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Looking for job? You may find the perfect one at the job fair held 3-7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 15, at South St. Paul Secondary, 700 2nd St. N. It’s open to anyone age 16 and older, and applications and interviews can be completed while there. Some people may even receive a job offer that day. The event is hosted by the City of South St. Paul and South St. Paul Public Schools.

The city has a slew of seasonal and variable hour openings in its Public Works and Parks and Recreation departments. Public Works is seeking maintenance worker aides to assist with street repairs, community event setup, ballfield maintenance, mowing of city land and more. Some positions require applicants to be age 18 or older and have a valid driver’s license. The Parks and Rec department is seeking lifeguards, managers and concession workers for its outdoor pools, as well as arena attendants, concession workers and Zamboni drivers at Doug Woog Arena.The department is also recruiting Summer Day Camp staff, Traveling Theater Playhouse staff, specialty summer camps staff, youth football referees and summer interns. Applicants must be at least age 16. If hired for a seasonal position, employees are generally allowed to return the next year without re-applying. The city offers competitive pay and benefits for full-time and part-time positions. To find open job positions with the City

Job Fair / Page 3

School district responds to marked increase in students seeking counseling

SSP taps experienced city engineer

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Taking up the mantle in the city of South St. Paul’s engineering department is Nicholas Guilliams, who starts his role as city engineer on February 6. Guilliams, who has more than two decades of engineering experience for municipalities, is expected to bring stability to a department that has seen much turnover in the past year.

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic and the social isolation that accompanied it took its toll on students both academically and emotionally. At the start of this school year, the South St. Paul School District sent out a survey to middle school students and learned that 1 in 4 were interested in attending group counseling. In a recent interview, several school counselors said they have seen a

notable increase in the number of students showing signs of anxiety and other mental health concerns. In response, the district’s seven school counselors have been working to develop a more structured curriculum to help students in grades 6-12 build their social, emotional and academic skills as they advance through the secondary school.

“Social-emotional learning isn’t an add-on like it was back in the day,” said

Both the engineering and public works departments have been in flux for the past seven months. Last June, longtime public works director Pat Dunn retired and City Engineer Sue Polka picked up his duties. In August, the two departments merged to cut down on administrative costs and increase efficiency, and Howie Steenberg was named public works superintendent, a newly created position. That arrangement was short-lived. Polka retired in early November and the departments were separated once again. At that time, Steenberg was named interim public works director and Lee Elfering was hired as interim city engineer. However, the dust has not yet settled. The city is currently searching for a director for public works. Once that person is hired, Steenberg will return to his position as superintendent. The city also plans to hire an assistant city engineer this year to assist Guilliams.

As city engineer, Guilliams oversees all engineering projects and manages the department’s two

Engineer / Page 4

Time for frosty fun: Flannel Fest returns Feb. 5-11

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

It’s time to break out your favorite flannel shirt and celebrate the mid-point of winter by participating in some frosty fun with your family, friends and neighbors. South St. Paul’s second annual Flannel Fest takes place February 5-11. Hosted by the City of South St. Paul Parks and

Recreation department, the fest has some of the same events as last year as well as two new activities. This year, those who circle the six Flannel Fest pictures found in the City’s Flannel Fest newsletter and return it to City Hall (125 3rd Ave. N.) have a chance to win a prize. Prizes are limited and will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis. Newsletters are available at

City Hall.

Flapjacks ’n’ Flannels is the inaugural event. Visit Croatian Hall, 445 2nd Ave. S., 9 a.m.-noon, Sunday, Feb. 5, for a breakfast of pancakes, eggs and sausage. $10 for adults and $5 for children. Proceeds will support Parks and Recreation youth programs.

Lumberjack Lanes will take over Jefferson Park, 125 21st Ave. N., noon-2

p.m., Monday, Feb. 6. Visitors can try their hand at ice bowling or enjoy the nearby sledding hill and ice rink. The South St. Paul Police Department will provide hot cocoa.

Flannel Fest Forager is new this year. This medallion hunt runs the entirety of Flannel Fest. The first clue will be released on the City’s Facebook page at noon, Monday, Feb.

6. Subsequent clues will be posted at noon each day through February 11, or until the medallion is found. For more information, visit facebook.com/ sspminnesota.

Starlight Sledding is held 5-7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 10, at Jefferson Park. Zip down the popular sledding hill or skate on the nearby ice rink, and don’t forget to stop by the police tent for

hot chocolate and cookies. Hotdish Showdown is another new event this year. It takes place noon-2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 11, at Lorraine Park, 756 3rd Ave. S. Judging will be done by everyone present through a secret ballot. Winners will be announced at 2 p.m. Anybody entering the contest must use a 6-quart

Counseling / Page 3

Sample St. Paul

School counselors Brooke Wood (grades 6-7), James Bierma (grades 7-8), Jelena Maric (grades 9-10) and Jenna Kvalheim (grades 11-12).

Flannel Fest

from page 1

crockpot, bring their own extension cord, and have a label on their dish that includes their name and the address at which the hotdish was prepared. Dakota County requires that all hotdishes that aren’t made in a commercial kitchen must be labeled as such: “This product is homemade and not subject to

state inspection.”

Babe’s Boot Hockey Tournament begins at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 11, at Lorraine Park. Games will be officiated. The format is double elimination. For more information, visit facebook.com/sspminnesota. To register, email Mercedes at mmiklya@ sspmn.org. Registration is

$100. The event is free for spectators.

St. Paul Winter Carnival

The St. Paul Winter Carnival is in full swing. Get out and enjoy these events. For more information, visit www.wintercarnival.com.

Minnesota State Fairgrounds - Vulcan Snow Park, through February 5. Visitors will find a snow maze, snow mountain playing area and the artistic cre-

SOUTH ST. PAUL PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ations of master snow carvers participating in the Minnesota State Snow Sculpting competition. Admission and parking are free.

Landmark CenterToasty fun can be found inside the Landmark Center, 75 W. Fifth St. The Winter Carnival’s Day of Good is Friday, Feb. 3. The day will have many opportunities 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.

Kids’ & Family Day is 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 4. Kids will be able to exercise, watch performances, participate in art and craft activities, and more. Vendors will also be on site. Free.

Rice Park - The warming house is open 4-10 p.m. through February 4 on Market Street, featuring music by local musicians and DJs, trivia, bingo and other

games, and beverages for sale. Free, with a suggested donation of a non-perishable food item for the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center.

The Vulcan Victory Torchlight Parade will weave its way through the city beginning at 5 p.m., February 4. It starts at West 7th at Smith Avenue and ends at Rice Park. After the parade, follow Vulcanus Rex and his Krewe to the steps of the George Latimer Central Library for the ever-dramatic overthrow of Boreas. Stick around afterward for fireworks and live music.

The Vulcan Victory Dance is 7:30-11:30 p.m., February 4, at InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront, 11 E. Kellogg Blvd. The R Factor will perform beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25.

Berners in the Park, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., February 4. Meet, pet and play with friendly dogs of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of the Greater Twin Cities. Free.

Three scavenger hunts are available through the Goosechase app through 5 p.m., February 4. All team members who finish a scavenger hunt will receive a small prize. Teams can regis-

ter for multiple hunts. There is a $500 prize for the winner of each of the four hunts.

A digital ice fishing tournament runs through February 5. To participate, download the FishDonkey mobile app and join the Winter Carnival group. Prizes will be awarded to the winning angler in 10 different categories. Cost is $20.

Warm up at the Central Library, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m., February 4. Enjoy a historical Winter Carnival slide show produced by St. Paul Public Library. Hot cocoa served while supplies last. The Roe Family Singers will perform 11:30 a.m.-noon. Children’s face painting is offered 10-11 a.m. and noon-1 p.m.

Three St. Paul walking tours are offered in February: Gangsterland (through Feb. 5), Secrets of Union Depot (Feb. 2-3) and Haunted Rice Park (Feb. 4-5). Each is $20. For tickets, visit cyncitytours.com.

Doggie Depot returns to Union Depot, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., February 4. Stop by for the crowning of the Canine King & Queen, giveaways, interviews with pet experts and more. Free.

SOUTH ST. PAUL JOB FAIR!

South St. Paul Public Schools and the City of South St. Paul are hosting a job fair to connect you with current job openings in our city. Apply, interview, and potentially receive an offer that day!

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023

3:00 - 7:00 pm

South St. Paul Secondary- 700 2nd Ave N, SSP

SOUTH ST PAUL PUBLIC

Lunchroom Supervisors

Custodians

Classroom Assistants

Substitutes (teachers, nurses, classroom assistants)

Seasonal, part-time, and full-time positions

Work while your students are in school

Competitive pay

Excellent full-time benefits (for work 30+ hours/week)

PLACE WHERE

All students have a voice and are valued for who they are Physical, social, and emotional wellbeing are keys to success Learning environments are welcoming, safe, and inclusive

www.sspps.org/enroll

651-457-9474

Seasonal Public Works and Airport Positions

Seasonal Parks & Recreation

Seasonal Doug Woog Ice Arena

Competitive pay

Part-time positions

Flexible Scheduling

Counseling

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South St. Paul Secondary Assistant Principal Angie Ryter. “Learning about yourself and learning academic, planning and goal-setting skills are really integral parts of being a successful human being, so we build them right into the classroom.”

The district is taking advantage of Xello, an online program that offers lessons tailored to each grade. Middle school students will have lessons on topics such as bullying prevention and stress management, and high school students will have lessons primarily related to college and career

Job Fair

from page 1

of South St. Paul, visit governmentjobs.com/careers/ sspmn.

South St. Paul Public Schools also has a variety of positions available. The dis-

readiness. Students will also use Xello to take assessments to determine their interests, strengths and career options, and to access tools to prepare for the ACT and SAT tests, track college applications and more. Previously, the district used a similar program called Pathful Explore but it switched to Xello because it has more resources for career exploration.

The new curriculum isn’t the only way the district has supported students in recent years. In 2017, it was the first district in the nation to adopt the BARR (Building Assets, Reducing Risks)

trict is seeking lunchroom supervisors, part-time building cleaners, custodians, maintenance workers, classroom assistants and clerical support workers, substitute teachers and nurses. Employees who work 30 or more hours a week are eligible

program, which focuses on building relationships with students to help better understand where they need support to succeed. It was initially implemented for first-year high school students, then expanded to all grades in the secondary school in 2020. It was added to the elementary schools last fall.

School teachers give BARR lessons on social and emotional topics and also meet weekly to identify students who are struggling with their grades, attendance, or are experiencing a change in behavior. When needed, they refer students to a counselor who will intervene and meet with the student one-on-one. The

for benefits. Work hours are typically during school hours. Open positions and applications can be found at sspps.org/departments/ hr. For more information, call the department at 651457-9409 or email human. resources@sspps.org.

schools’ BARR coordinator may also complete a risk review in cases where a student may be at risk of harming themselves or another person. In those cases, they may connect with families and reach out to social services agencies. Since its implementation, the graduation rate at the secondary school has increased 6.4%, and last year the percentage of ninth graders who failed one or more classes decreased 22.5%.

Currently, the district’s small but dedicated team of counselors have a lot on their plate. There is one full time counselor at each elementary school and one part time counselor who splits her time at each, and

two full time counselors at both the middle and high school. The American Association for Counselors recommends one counselor per 250 students. In South St. Paul, most counselors assist around 400.

The role of school counselors has changed significantly in the past decade in South St. Paul and nationwide. When the parents of today’s students were in school, counselors were referred to as guidance counselors and primarily responded to student issues as they arose. Today, school counselors must hold a masters degree and they play a much more active role in supporting the social, emotional and academic needs of students.

At the elementary schools in the district, counselors aim to enter classrooms weekly to help students learn ways to deal with conflict resolution, identifying emotions and more.

“We have a slogan, ‘better together,’ and I think that’s been really important to us,” said South St. Paul Middle School Counselor James Bierma. “We’re all working together to better serve them [students]… We counselors call it the four-legged chair. It’s how the student, family members, teachers and counselor all work together to make sure the student is having a positive school experience. I think that’s gone really well here.”

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Please join us for prayer and reflection on this most sacred weekend.

Contributors: Lois Glewwe Roger Fuller

Copy Editor: Leslie Martin

Staff Writers: Jake Spitzack John E. Ahlstrom

Delivery: Independent Delivery Service

or visit www.stpaulcityschool.org St. Paul City School 215 University Ave. W., St. Paul

Cross,

p.m., followed by Celebration of the Lord's Passion

Holy Saturday - April 8 Easter Vigil, 8:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday - April 9 Mass at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

from page 1

employees. He has already met with Elfering to learn about the city’s current projects, including the Concord Street reconstruction project and installation of a new watermain crossing under I-494. The city has several other projects in the pipeline as well and Guilliams will work to secure funding for them.

“Short term, my goal is to work hard to get up to speed

with projects currently going on and make sure those get completed, and developing relationships with staff that work under me, and also other department heads, the city administrator, and the city council,” said Guilliams. “Long term, my goal is to implement the council’s goals and the CIP (Capital Improvement Plan), and make sure we’re providing excellent customer service to the community.”

Before joining the city, Guilliams worked as senior project manager for WSB

& Associates for eight years. In that position, he was city engineer for the city of Afton for three years, assistant city engineer for Mahtomedi for

five years and city engineer for Lonsdale for 18 months. He is a California native and received a bachelor’s in civil engineering from California

Student Notes

The State University of New York at Potsdam president’s list: Alexis Ritter

The College of St. Scholastica Duluth dean’s list: Amber Feig and April Terlinde

Library events

Winter Reads, through February 28. Read books of your choice then write a brief review to be used as an entry in a weekly prize drawing.

Book Club , 7-8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 9. The title is “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/SSPbookclub.

Book Bingo, 7-8 p.m., Monday, Feb. 6. This event offers the chance to win free books and DVDs. Snacks provided.

Colorful Pet Portraits, 6:30-8 p.m., Monday, Feb. 27. Create a portrait of your pet using colored pencils and chalk pastel. Bring a photo of your pet. Registration required. Geared toward

State University-Fullerton. He and his wife, a Minnesota native, relocated to Minnesota in 2015 to start their family. Guilliams’ first job in Minnesota was with the City of South St. Paul, where he worked in the engineering department for seven months. From there, he went to the Met Council, and then to WSB. In total, he has about 21 years of experience in engineering.

“It’s a good opportunity for me to get back into the public sector where I’ve spent a large portion of my

adults. To register, visit www. southstpaul.org/library or call 651-554-3243

Neighbors, Inc. seeks director

After nearly six years on the job, Charlie Thompson has resigned as president and CEO of Neighbors, Inc., the South St. Paul-based nonprofit that recently wrapped up a year-long celebration of its 50th anniversary. He accepted a position as executive director with the nonprofit Fishline in Pouls-

career,” said Guilliams. “I enjoyed the public sector and, frankly, being able to make more of a difference as a city engineer as opposed to as a consultant. South St. Paul checked a lot of boxes I was looking for. The city has exciting projects on the horizon. It’s an older community with some older infrastructure and plenty of opportunities to improve city infrastructure, and I will have the chance to really make a positive difference in the community.”

bo, Wash. Prior to joining Neighbors in April 2017, Thompson was executive director of St. Vincent de Paul in Tacoma, Wash. The Neighbors board of directors will begin the search for his successor in the coming months.

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 Lions Club meets at 7:15 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month (SeptemberMay). For more information, visit https://ssplions.org.

‘The city has exciting projects on the horizon,’ he said. ‘It’s an older community with some older infrastructure and plenty of opportunities to improve city infrastructure, and I will have the chance to really make a positive difference in the community.’

Recalling the angst of early Valentine days

Lois Glewwe Contributer

Oneof the most exciting times in grade school in the 1950s and ’60s was the celebration of Valentine’s Day. It caused great anticipation as kids wondered if their favorite “crush” would give them a card with a personal message written on it. Before the holiday, each student brought an empty shoebox to school and decorated it for the valentines they would receive. The teacher provided red construction paper and perhaps some paper doilies or cutout hearts. I don’t recall stickers being a thing then but students had some freedom to decorate the boxes as they wished. It was, of course, important to cut a slot in the cover of the shoe box and make sure your name was printed on the box.

I assume each student was sent home with a letter asking parents to provide X-

number of valentines – one for every student in the class – and to bring treats to share. I remember my mom buying a pack of paper valentines expressing a range of emotions from “Be my valentine” to “I’m falling for you,” with appropriate accompanying artwork. She would lay out the cards and envelopes and supervise me while I scrawled each student’s name on one of the envelopes and then signed the valentine. I’d seal the envelopes and take the whole stack to school on the important day. We’d start getting sugared up right after lunch from all the treats the moms had provided. I was so proud of my mother’s cookies. They were beautiful heart-shaped sugar cookies with white frosting and one little red-hot candy in the center.

At some point in the afternoon, we’d deliver our valentines to our classmates. It must have been a bit chaotic as two dozen or so students tried to get the right card

When the author was in elementary school, students decorated shoeboxes to collect valentine cards from their classmates, and many hoped to get a note from one special student. Today, the focus has shifted from romance to being kind to everyone.

into the right box at each student’s desk. I recall that in second grade I had written a special note on Eddie’s valentine. He was the cutest boy in the class, and I really hoped he’d written a note to me as well. I don’t think we opened the cards in class. I remember taking the box home and opening each valentine there. The suspense was agonizing.

As I piled up the valentines I’d received, I found one that I thought to be from Eddie. I opened it carefully, afraid that it might not contain the message I’d hoped it would. And it didn’t. It was a plain valentine like all the others. Eddie had printed his name but no special words, even though it did ask, “Be my valentine,” as did most of the cards.

As I reflected on my first Valentine’s Day disappointment, I wondered what teachers do today. I learned that instead of placing emphasis on finding one

special valentine, students are encouraged to express good things about each student in their class. I’m sure many teachers spend their own money to buy valentine cards for children whose parents can’t afford the extra expense, and that no teacher today would allow students to feast on sugar for an hour or more.

The focus on sharing valentines in school has shifted from romance to friendship, respect and sharing with everyone. While I certainly agree the intention is good, I do think kids miss out on the excitement, romance and adventure of picking one special classmate to be your valentine.

I don’t think I ever told Eddie about my crush on him in second grade. Our 55th high school class reunion is coming up this year. Maybe I’ll have to finally let him in on the secret. Happy Valentine’s Day to all!

If a large family celebration is on your calendar this year, give us a call. The Croatian Hall is the perfect place to host your gathering. We have wonderful amenities — inside and out — to make your event special. Call today to arrange a tour and inquire about availability.

H istory Center

3 45 W. Kellogg Blvd. S t. Paul

6 51-259-3000

m nhs.org

Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition is featured through April 2. Visitors can learn about areas of forensic science and engage in interactive crime-solving exercises. Original manuscripts, period artifacts, and investigative tools influenced and used by Sherlock Holmes are on view.

Our Home: Native Minnesota includes historic and contemporary photographs, maps and artifacts. Visitors learn how Minnesota’s native communities have retained cultural practices, teachings and values.

Other exhibits include Minnesota’s Greatest Generation, Then Now Wow, Grainland and Weather Permitting. The Center is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Thurs.-Sun. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students, and $8 for children ages five to 17.

H istory Theatre

3 0 E. 10th St.

S t. Paul

6 51-292-4323

H istorytheatre.com

“The Root Beer Lady” is presented through Feb. 19. Set in 1986, the story reflects on the life of Dorothy Molter, the last legal nonindigenous resident of the Boundary Waters, who is famous for giving root beer to canoeists. The play pushes back against the premise that her time in the North Woods made her the “loneliest woman in America,” as the Saturday Evening Post claimed in 1952. Tickets start at $43, with discounts for seniors, adults under age 30 and students.

L andmark Center

7 5 5th St. W.

S t. Paul

6 51-292-3225

l andmarkcenter.org

Urban Expedition events are held 1-3 p.m. They feature crafts, dance, music, exhibits and food. Upcoming events include Philippines,

February 12, and Norway, February 26. Free.

Ballet Tuesday, noon-1 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 14. Dancers from Ballet Co.Laboratory perform excerpts from the company repertoire.

Sunday at Landmark: Black Sea Odyssey , 1-3 p.m., Feb. 19. Experience the music, dance, foods, costumes, and arts and craft traditions of several countries from the Black Sea region of Eastern Europe. $4-6.

M N Children’s Museum

1 0 7th St. W. S t. Paul 6 51-225-6000 m cm.org

Framed: Step into Art is featured through May 7. Step into the 3D world of four well-known paintings, view famous prints and parodies of the Mona Lisa, and replace Mona Lisa’s face with your own.

Other exhibits and activities include The Scramble, The Studio, Creativity Jam, Sprouts, Our World, Forces at Play, Sprouts, Shipwreck Adventures and Imaginopolis.

The museum is open 9

a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturdays, and 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sundays. Tickets are $14.95.

M N Museum of American Art

3 50 Robert St. N. S t. Paul 6 51-797-2571 m maa.org

Colonial Traumas, is an installation in Skyway 28 over Wabasha Street at 4th Street in downtown St. Paul. Created by Luis Fitch, the mural features colorful, vinyl cut-out skulls that represent the complexity of identity, place and belonging for people of mixed-race descent.

Off the Deep End, a digital mural printed on vinyl, is on display in the Jackson

Street skyway bridge between 4th and 5th Streets through March 15. The artwork was created by 19 students from the St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists and explores the theme of metaphorical rising sea level.

Im/perfect Slumbers is on display February 11-August 20, in the M’s window galleries and skyway entrance. This multidisciplinary series of art installations captures the historical and contemporary state of sleeping and being in bed.

O rdway Center

3 45 Washington St. S t. Paul 6 51-224-4222 o rdway.org

“A Soldier’s Play,” February 8-12. In 1944, two shots ring out on a Louisiana Army base. A Black sergeant

is murdered and a series of interrogations triggers a gripping barrage of questions about sacrifice, service and identity in America. Tickets start at $43.

Minnesota Opera presents “The Daughter of the Regiment,” 7:30 p.m., February 4, 9 and 11, and 2 p.m., February 12. Tickets start at $20 for youth and $38 for adults.

St. Paul Chamber Orchestra performances: Jonathan Biss plays Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto, 8 p.m., February 1011. Northside Celebration 2023, 2 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 19. Tickets for each event start at $12.

Classic Albums Live perform Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 25. Tickets start at $33. Cantus presents “I Hear

“A Soldier’s Play” is presented February 8-12 at the Ordway.

S ample St. Paul

America Singing,” 3 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 26. Tickets start at $25.

P alace Theatre

1 7 7th Place W. S t. Paul 6 12-338-8388 f irst-avenue.com

Gregory Alan Isakov performs at 7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 3. Tickets start at $35.

R iverCentre

1 75 W. Kellogg Blvd. S t. Paul 6 51- 265-4800 r ivercentre.org

Twin Cities Bridal Show, noon-4 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 26. $15 for general admission, or $20 for general admission and fashion show.

S chubert Club

3 02 Landmark Center

7 5 W. 5th St. S t. Paul 6 51-292-3268 s chubert.org

International Artist Series presents Bach Collegium Japan: Masaaki Suzuki (harpsichord) and Roderick Williams (baritone), 7:30 p.m., February 7, and 2:30 p.m., February 8, at the Ordway Concert Hall. Tickets

start at $36. Courtroom Concerts are held on Thursdays at noon, at the Landmark Center. Free. Upcoming concerts include vocalist Bob Peskin and pianists Barbara Brooks and Orion Kim, February 9; Chione Quintet and cellist Kirsten Whitson, February 16; and vocalists Clara Osowski and Steve Staruch, February 23.

Accordo with Silent Film, 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 14, at the Ordway Concert Hall. Tickets start at $31.

“Spotlight On: J.D. Steele” is a concert that will be uploaded to the Schubert Club website at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 23. Tickets are $10.

Harpist Bridget Kibbey and the Calidore String Quartet perform at 4 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 26, at St. Anthony Park United Church of Christ. Tickets start at $23.

KidsJam: New Sounds for an Ancient Instrument - The Harp, 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the Landmark Center. Harpist Bridget Kibbey teaches about the harp. Kids get the

chance to create their own stringed instrument. $5.

S cience Museum of Minnesota

1 20 W. Kellogg Blvd.

S t. Paul

6 51-221-9444

s mm.org

Latinx Americans in STEM , 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 11. Learn about the careers and scientific contributions of Latinx American STEM professionals.

Asian Americans in STEM is presented 11 a.m.4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 25.

The Bias Inside Us exhibit is on display through February 26. This traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution invites visitors to recognize and reckon with their own biases.

New Science is a temporary exhibit on display through March 25. Designed by the California Academy of Sciences, this exhibit highlights LGBTQ+ workers in the STEMM (science, technology, engineering, math and medicine) industry.

Omnitheater films - “Sea Lions: Life by a Whisker,”

through April 9. Connect with some of nature’s most unusual, curious and playful animals in this epic quest to save one of the world’s endangered species.

Stellar Tours Live Digital Telescope Show, 2 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays. Choose your own space adventure and experience the Omnitheater’s new Digistar 7 projection system. Omnitheater tickets are $9.95. Free for children age 3 and under.

Sensory Friendly Sunday is hosted 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 range from $9.95-$34.90, with discounts available for those with limited incomes.

Xcel Center

199 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul

651-726-8240

xcelenergycenter.com

Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo, 7:30 p.m., February

3-4. Tickets start at $16. Blake Shelton, 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18. Tickets start at $45.

The Urban Explorer

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

After jamming a few quarters into the parking pay station, my wife and I leaned into the frigid winter wind and made our way through the corridor of tall, downtown St. Paul buildings. A few minutes later we reached the St. Paul Farmers Market and my

breathing steadied almost at once. The pleasing aroma of warm drinks and kettle corn wafted from a row of vendors’ tents at the far end of the market and jolly music filled the air. It made me smile, something I could now do since feeling had returned to my frozen cheeks.

Seniors

South St. Paul HRA

Strolling along with curious eyes, we joined a flock of people moseying past several tables filled with packaged meats of all types, cuts and sizes. I gently knocked on a few steaks and pork roasts and found them to be hard as a rock. Yes, they were frozen, but I learned that they were cut fresh just days earlier. Continuing past a small cloud of steam rising from a coffee shack, we rounded a bend and found a surprisingly large crowd shuffling along amidst the colorful stands. For a moment I was transported back to the leisurely days of summertime. Here we found meats,

fruits and vegetables, coffee, breads, honey and more, along with vendors issuing friendly greetings. The welcoming smells and sight of the fresh products lured us in. After two laps around the market, we made our decision on what to buy. Before pulling the trigger though, we spent some time at the cozy fireplace on the side of the market near CHS Field. Here, free brats were given to anyone who cared to roast one over the fire. The sizzle and smell of the brats, coupled with the laughter and chatter of those around us, warmed me even further and confused my senses. Was it summer? Winter? At that point it didn’t matter. I was having a good time.

After making our purchases, we walked back along the cobbled path we had strolled in on, feeling happy and content. Aside from experiencing something new, we were invigorated by the sense of community we found at the market and were pleased to have supported a few local farmers dedicated to providing fresh, nutritious food. As we crossed the street and headed back to our car, the air didn’t feel quite as cold as before and we found ourselves planning our

next trip back to the market and the discussing the stands we wanted to support. We, like many others, were now year-round customers.

The St. Paul Farmers Market was named the second best Farmers Market in the nation last year by a USA Today Top 10 reader poll. In the summer it features vast assortments of food and other products. (A summer

market is also held in South St. Paul each Wednesday, May through October.)

The winter market also has a wide variety, but about a quarter of the vendors. It is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, December through April, and has infrared heaters. For more information, visit stpaulfarmersmarket. com.

The World is a Great Big Place

A group gathers around the fire to enjoy its warmth and cook free hot dogs.

P ostscript

Dogs in Winter

“Aren’t you the cutest dog?” I asked the chubby brindle pit bull mix walking down the sidewalk.

Objectively, she was not the cutest dog, I suppose. But there is no such thing as an ugly dog, as we all know. She was wearing a brand-new jacket with colorful pockets and a hood and, to top it off, matching booties. She looked a little self-conscious – as we all are when we get dressed up for the first time in a while –and I thought she could use a little reassurance.

“I wasn’t sure she would

very cold day. But this barrel-shaped pup was dancing on the cold pavement, happy to meet me, booties all but forgotten.

“She loves meeting new people,” her owner explained, unnecessarily.

I love seeing dogs in the winter.

Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com

wear the booties,” her owner confessed.

The dog looked at me seriously, as if she understood. The booties might be a bridge too far even on a

Of course, this is the time of year that longhaired dogs finally get comfortable. They stroll at a leisurely pace. They roll in the snow. They walk with their noses under the snow, sniffing the mysterious world beneath the surface. They scoop up big mouthfuls of snow as they go, cruising along with their tongues firmly inside their mouths for the first time in months. They are utterly at home in the snow, as if the warm

months of the past were an aberration and we are now back to normal.

But the short-haired dogs suffer. They shiver and hop from one foot to the other and look as if the whole notion of taking a walk in these temperatures was neither their idea nor something they approved of. Their owners decide that what they need is a jacket and, usually, the jacket is a mixed success. The little dogs still seem cold even in their jackets. I saw a greyhound with a jacket over a sweater. He didn’t look cold, rather, deeply embarrassed. I’ve seen dogs in Santa costumes and fancy hand-knitted Guatemalan sweaters and expensive gear that looked like it was designed for trekking up

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Waiting lists change and may be open. Please call the property to inquire.

Mount Everest. None of the jackets look as if they fit very well. They’re all held on with straps and clips and usually are drifting to one side or the other, or threatening to come off entirely. The booties almost never stay on long.

Just down the block, I met a short-haired terrier walking with a man I chat with regularly. The terrier was not in a jacket and, when he saw me coming, I could see the pleading in his eyes. “Please do not make my owner stop and talk!” I tried not to talk too long as the terrier hopped from one cold paw to the other and shivered disapprovingly.

“He needs a jacket!” I said to the terrier’s owner, but I

could tell neither owner nor terrier was crazy about the idea.

Which is why the brindle pit bull’s ensemble was so impressive.

She looked as if she planned to model it in a dog catalog. Her slightly pudgy frame filled out the jacket and kept it in place. Her little booties kept her off the cold snow, sharp sand and biting salt. She was perfectly decked out and, I suspect, had an idea of exactly how adorable she was.

“You are the cutest dog in town!” I announced. The stubby dog was pleased. Her owner was proud. And – at that moment – I think it might almost have been true. Till next time.

The second most-asked question I get

Joe Atkins Dakota County Commissioner for District 2

Inlast month’s column

I answered the No. 1 question I hear as a Dakota County commissioner: “What does Dakota County do?” Since county government is occasionally referred to as the invisible layer of government, it surprises people to learn of Dakota County’s extensive impact on our everyday lives.

For example, Dakota County maintains 81 bridges and 440 miles of county roads, like Thompson, Delaware, Oakdale, Southview and Concord. We handle felony prosecutions for all cities and towns in the county, run the county jail, and collaborate with local cities on Dakota911, making our 9-1-1 emergency response far faster and more efficient. We

pair up social workers with West St. Paul and South St. Paul police to help respond to calls involving mental health. We address more than 50,000 intake and crisis calls a year, while also creating places like Aspen House in Mendota Heights, which provide a safe place for teens in crisis. We partner with the state to protect our drinking water and prevent its exportation elsewhere. We oversee a 5,000-acre park system, including Thompson County Park in West St. Paul and our River to River Greenway connecting South St. Paul, West St. Paul and Mendota Heights, welcoming over a

Jesus, the Lamb of God

million visitors annually to our parks and trails. Even more popular are our nine county libraries, including Wentworth Library in West St. Paul, where 2 million visitors checked out 4 million materials in 2022 alone. Next year, a 10th library, currently under construction in South St. Paul, will join our Dakota County library system. All of these examples prompt the second most frequent question I hear as a Dakota County commissioner, which is, “How does all this get paid for?”

2023 county budget

After six months of work that started in June 2022, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners adopted our 2023 county budget in December. The $438 million budget was a slight increase over 2022, prioritizing services like public safety, mental health support, transportation, and preservation/ restoration of natural areas. Since many county services are mandated by the state

Volunteer In Your Community

and federal government, a portion of these services is paid for through state and federal grants. The rest of the cost for these required programs falls upon county property taxpayers. These unreimbursed expenses, together with increased cost for things like utilities and insurance, resulted in a countywide property tax levy of $147 million, an increase of 1.9% over 2022.

Countywide, the 1.9% increase in the county tax levy means the average property taxpayer is paying $22.99 more for county taxes in 2023. Because market values of homes in West St. Paul and South St. Paul increased less than elsewhere in Dakota County, the property tax impact is lower here, averaging $17.82 per year for homes in South St. Paul and a mere $1.26 per year for homes in West St. Paul. Keep in mind that cities and school districts make up the rest of each property owner’s tax bill, and some cities

in Dakota County passed property tax increases of up to 12%. Voters also narrowly approved a 2-question school referendum in South St. Paul, resulting in an increase in school property taxes for 2023.

Debt-free in ‘23

In spite of inflation and unreimbursed costs in 2023, I am pleased to report that Dakota County will remain debt-free in 2023. For a sixth straight year, we are one of the only counties in the nation with zero debt. The average debt load among metro counties is over $200 million. By not having to pay interest on debt each year, Dakota County is able to hold down property taxes while still investing in services like public safety, transportation, libraries and parks. Recently compiled data from the Association of Minnesota Counties shows that Dakota County is home to the lowest county property taxes per person in

Jesus, the Lamb of God

Grace Lutheran Church • WELS

149 8th Ave. S., South St. Paul 651-451-1035

Pastor Thomas Hartwig

Sunday Worship 9:00 a.m.

Wednesday Lenten Service 4:30 p.m.

Beginning Ash Wed., Feb. 22

Lutheran Social Service of MN is seeking volunteers age 55+ in your area to provide companionship to older adults or mentor school-age children. Volunteers commit to regular weekly hours for a tax-free stipend and mileage reimbursement. Please contact Brinn Krabbenhoft at 651.310.9455, or Brinn.Krabbenhoft@ lssmn.org for more information and to make an impact in your community.

Grace Lutheran Church • WELS

149 8th Ave. S., South St. Paul 651-451-1035

Pastor Thomas Hartwig

Sunday Worship 9:00 a.m.

HOLY

WEEK

Join our Tribe...

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 o f 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, MN 55118, or call us at 651-457-1177 with your credit card number. Mailed subscriptions are available for $21.50 per year. Thanks for your support!

Minnesota, out of 87 counties statewide. County property taxes are 55% lower in Dakota County than in neighboring Ramsey County.

Volunteers make a difference

In 2022, more than 2,300 volunteers contributed over 23,500 hours in 177 opportunities, helping Dakota County provide quality services and activities for residents, at a value of $672,545 in services completed. Thank you to all of our volunteers!

Next month I will explain the status of county projects in northern Dakota County, like the mental health crisis facility proposed to go in next to the Northern Service Center in West St. Paul, as well as the newest county library under construction in South St. Paul. I welcome feedback. To share comments, concerns and questions, contact me at Joe. Atkins@co.dakota.mn.us or 651-438-4430.

Neighbors,

Charlie Thompson President & CEO

Inc.

Editor’s note: Executive director Charlie Thompson has resigned from Neighbors, Inc. to lead a nonprofit in the state of Washington. He has been executive director since 2017. This is his farewell column.

This past Christmas, my family did something we had

never done before. We took a vacation to Florida and visited theme parks and beaches. It was an amazing experience. I cannot remember the last time the four of us spent so much time together. The weather was cold by Florida’s standards. It wasn’t until our last day that the

temperatures climbed into the seventies. It made it difficult to leave but we knew we had to get back to life in Minnesota.

Six years ago, I did something I had never done before. I accepted a job in Minnesota. Not just any job. The job I took on was one that afforded me experiences like no other. My time at Neighbors has allowed me the opportunity to meet incredible people and be part of an organization that is well respected and supported by its community.

One of my earliest memories is celebrating Virginia

Milbert’s 100th birthday. As a part of that celebration, the Rotary Club honored her with an award. The highlight was listening to Virginia tell stories of her time at Neighbors. I have been blessed to have heard many more of her stories during the past six years.

Ducks are another aspect of Neighbors that will be hard to forget. Delbert and the Duck Races are as unique as it gets when you think of nonprofits. Our mascot and fundraiser offer a fun way to show support to our neighbors in need.

I have never seen a com-

munity come together the way we do in March during Minnesota Food Share. The outpouring of support is incredible. Creative contests to raise pounds of food and funds abound. From churches to businesses, Food Share exemplifies the support we have in the community.

Finally, our volunteers, donors and employees are THE BEST. I have met so many great people. I will cherish the relationships I have formed during my six years here. I want to give special recognition to the Neighbors’ staff. You show

up every day and connect our volunteers with our neighbors in need. You manage the programs and services. You bring joy to people’s lives. I will miss you all very much.

Much like my recent trip to Florida, it is hard to leave when so many positive changes are taking hold. I am incredibly humbled by the talent and dedication our community has to offer. As I depart to move back to Washington and lead a new organization, my hope is that I have been able to help provide opportunities to thrive.

Valagrams are back

The South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force is delivering CommUNITY Grams for Valentine’s Day again this year. Valagrams are an opportunity to share positive messages, greetings and well-wishes with family members or friends living in South St. Paul.

To participate, download a Valagram form at www.southstpaul.org (on the event’s calendar page) or pick up a form at South St. Paul City Hall, 125 3rd Ave. N. Complete the form and return it and the fee to City Hall by Thursday, Feb. 8. Grams cost $6, or two for $10. Task force members will create the Valagram, place it in a Valentine’s bag with some tasty treats, and deliver it to the recipient’s door on Saturday, Feb. 11. The recipient must live in South St. Paul. The message can be up to 100 words.

Valagrams have been the most popular CommUNITY Gram. The task force also delivers Boo Grams for Halloween and Jingle Grams at Christmas. CommUNITY Grams can also be sent throughout the year for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and other reasons. Proceeds fund community activities hosted by the task force, such as the Kaposia Days children’s parade, Disco Bingo, Fill the Backpack campaign, the Great Halloween Get Together and the South St. Paul Annual Food Drive for Neighbors, Inc. For more information, contact Deb Griffith at 651-554-3230 or deb.griffith@southstpaul.org.