St. Paul Voice July 2023

The St. Paul

Summer music, movies, festivals

Page 6

Neighbors, Inc. names new CEO

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Nowcaptaining the cadre of staff and volunteers at Neighbors, Inc., is Dawn Wambeke, who has 23 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and was recently named the nonprofit’s new executive director.

“I am truly inspired by the tremendous, long-standing community support that Neighbors has from their volunteers and supporters,” said Wambeke. “For 51 years, with the unwavering support of their community, Neighbors has been able to provide highly dignified person-centered basic needs services including food and clothing, and today they have expanded their scope with the launch of financial empowerment services. I am thrilled to join their incredible work, and I look forward to getting connected within the community.”

Wambeke has a bachelor’s in psychology from Southwest State University and a mini master of business association for nonprofit organizations program from the University of St. Thomas. Previously, she served as executive director of Advance Opportunities, a Marshall, Minn.-based nonprofit that provides employment and training for adults with developmental disabilities. She has also directed and managed economic empowerment programs for Twin Cities-based organizations including CAPI USA, Pillsbury United Communities and Emerge.

Wambeke will oversee 16 staff and

Neighbors, Inc. / Page 3

Meet Treehouse Mary

An 0ctogenarian who lives among the birds and the squirrels

Tim Spitzack Editor

Mary Nelson was 75 years old the day she abruptly decided that the towering 60-foot-tall oak tree in her backyard needed a treehouse. The tree, she estimated, had been there long before her home was built in 1930. One day she shared her idea with a friend who happened to have carpentry skills. He told her it was a bad idea at her age. Undeterred, she kept needling him until he agreed to build it. When it was nearly finished, Mary decided the treehouse needed a second level. Her friend took a deep breath and kept building but was soon pulled away by family commitments. Two summers later a neighbor agreed to finish the job.

Fast forward a decade. What does a soonto-be 85-year-old do with a double decker treehouse? Well, she relaxes in it, of course.

I’m not sure I would have believed it if I hadn’t seen it for myself. After learning about the treehouse, I drove by to take a look. It was quite the impressive structure so I parked my car and rang her bell. To my surprise, the door opened and a friendly woman with kind eyes appeared, not looking the least bit suspicious as to why a stranger was on her doorstep on a sunny summer afternoon. She wore jean shorts and a denim blouse, with a visor covering her long gray hair pulled back in a ponytail. She was advanced in years, thin and spry.

I introduced myself and my intention – to write an article about her treehouse – then asked her name.

“Mary Nelson,” she said. “But I often go by

Nelson on the second level of her treehouse, 25 feet above ground.

Mary Ruth Nelson because I have such a common name.” Then she smiled. “My neighbors call me Treehouse Mary.”

As we continued talking, I quickly discovered that she herself is far from common.

“Do you want to go up?” she asked.

How could I say no.

Mary told me where to find the homemade ladder made of 2x4 lumber and I leaned it against the tree and started climbing. My first thoughts were, is this safe? I was soon at the first level, about 15 feet above the ground. I

Treehouse Mary / Page 2

An up-close look at our national mammal

Page 8

Crasqui brings Venezuelan fare to the West Side

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

South American food will be represented among the many Mexican restaurants on St. Paul’s West Side when Crasqui Venezuelan restaurant opens July 25 at 84 Wabasha St. S., just across the Wabasha Street bridge from downtown in the space formerly home to Catrina’s Cerveza & Mexican Grill. Owner Soleil Ramirez grew up in Caracas, Venezuela, and is using her 15 years of experience in fine dining to offer an elegant experience that transports guests to her homeland.

“Crasqui is an island in the Caribbean Ocean, so the theme of all the décor and inspiration is based on that, but forget about tiki bars, it’s not a tiki bar,” said Ramirez. “All the recipes and dishes at Crasqui are based on my ideas, memories and experiences. I have a dessert called My Dad’s Favorite that represents my memories with my dad. I have another dish for my grandma that represents who she was in the kitchen.”

The majority of the menu items include fresh seafood and vegetables, and dishes will rotate seasonally. Guests can try a 6-course menu tasting and al a carte items will also be available. The menu will be in Spanish, so don’t be afraid to ask your server for help if you need it.

“I had the great opportunity when I was little to travel all over, so I really know the food of my country,”

Crasqui / Page 4

Prospective homebuyers see signs of hope as market levels out

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

30% decline in home sales across the Twin Cities and a leveling of listing prices suggest good news for those looking to purchase their first home, and folks seeking larger homes.

Anear

The median sales price of $367,000 in April was down 0.7% from a year ago – the first such decline, however

slight, since 2012. The average time on the market increased by nearly two-thirds, to 45 days, and inventory levels shrank 4.5%, to 6,155 units. The Twin Cities market currently has about 1.5 months’ supply whereas a balanced market has four to six months.

Here’s how the market changed in the St. Paul Voice distribution area over the past year. Data is through April 2023.

• Median sales price on the West Side decreased by 11.2%, from $255,000 to $226,500. Time on the market more than doubled, from 20 to 44 days.

• Median sales price in downtown decreased 13.8%, from $174,000-$150,000. Time on the market increased 10.2%, from 147 to 162 days.

• Median sales price in West St. Paul decreased 9.8%, from $305,000 to

$275,000. Homes sat on the market slightly longer, increasing from 27 to 29 days.

• Median sales price in Mendota Heights decreased by 5.4%, from $420,000 to $397,450. Days on the market jumped from 17 to 97 days.

Market trends in the Twin Cities Sales in St. Paul decreased 28.6% while sales in Minneapolis fell 36.4%. Sales

of single-family homes fell 31.5%, condos declined 36.1%, and townhomes dropped 14.4%. New construction home sales rose 20% while existing home sales were down 32.9%. The decrease in overall sales in the Twin Cities can, in part, be attributed to significantly fewer listings compared to last year, a decrease of about 28%. Rising interest rates have impacted affordability but those, too, are leveling

out. According to Freddie Mac, the average 30-year fixed rate mortgage in 2022 jumped from 3.22% in January to 7.08% in October. Today, rates are hovering around 6.8%.

Rental properties

Rent for apartments in St. Paul has stayed relatively consistent since April last year. According to a recent

Treehouse Mary

from page 1

noticed that this level, like the one above it, was constructed like a deck on a house, although each was wedged within and bolted to the girthy branches of the expansive oak. As I climbed another ladder stairway to the second level I felt as if

I were entering a mystical land in an enchanted forest, where I would find a sage who would impart upon me special wisdom. Temps were in the mid-80s, a light breeze rustled the leaves and dappled sunlight shone all around.

Once on the upper deck I could see far into what is called the 40 acres neighborhood of West St. Paul, north of Annapolis Street. Suddenly, Mary appeared beside me. She had scampered up the ladder as quickly as a squirrel shimmies up a tree. We sat on plastic lawn chairs she had hauled up there herself. Next to me was a table and umbrella that she also hefted up on her own. She proudly said most of her treehouse furnishings were given to her free or were purchased cheaply at garage sales: the chairs and table, the rug, a newly acquired end table, the Christmas lights strung along the railing powered by a heavy-duty extension cord tacked to the tree. “I love going to garage sales,” she said.

The top deck, roughly 10 feet by 12 feet, is some 25-feet above ground. Mary spends time up there daily in the summer.

“Sometimes I’ll be up and down four times a day,” she said. “It’s just wonderful. On a hot day, I’ll run a fan, although the squirrels chewed through the cord once.” The rodents are her nemesis, also chewing at the railing, car-

What Matters Most?

peting and whatever else they feel like sinking their teeth into. “I live with them but sometimes I want to kill them,” she said plainly. Mary usually watches TV on the first level. She reserves the second level for reading and visiting with company.

Mary grew up on a farm in Zearing, Iowa, and moved to Minnesota with her family in 1948 at age 10, after her father sold their farm. Married twice, she worked a variety of jobs during her lifetime, including organist for 30 years at Riverview Baptist in West St. Paul, a position she held until the pandemic hit.

When asked if her children – two sons and a daughter – worry about her climbing, she said, “No, they’re wonderful people, but they leave me alone.” Each lives in the Twin Cities and checks in on her often but they’ve learned not to question her independence. This spring, they convinced her to tour a senior living apartment complex but she said it wasn’t for her. She enjoys being in her home, tending her plants and walking or biking around

Nelson ascends and descends with ease.

P eople

neighborhood. She turns 85 in August and has lived in her home since 1977.

As I watched her climb down the ladder after our interview, I marveled at the strength in her tiny arms and

the deftness of her climbing ability. It’s remarkable that she’s able to spend time in her treetop sanctuary given her age and recent health issues. She has had surgery for skin cancer three times

Neighbors, Inc.

from page 1

dozens of volunteers across the four programs that the nonprofit operates. The organization’s oldest programs are the Clothes Closet thrift store and the food shelf. Located on the upper floor of the Neighbors building at 222 Grand Ave. W., the Clothes Closet provides clothing and essential home items for lowto no-cost, based on need. The food shelf, located on the lower level, offers in-person shopping, curbside pick-up, delivery and distribution events. In the past year, it has seen about 2,000 visits per month, a significant increase compared to the 500 it saw during busy months prepandemic. The nonprofit’s newest program is its Financial Empowerment Center, which offers free services to

help improve financial wellbeing and security. Additionally, the organization operates a holiday gift assistance program during the wintertime holiday season.

Wambeke is the nonprofit’s sixth executive director. She succeeds Charlie Thompson, who held the position for six years and resigned in January to lead a nonprofit in the state of Washington. The first executive director was Bob Adams, who served from 1975-1995. The organization was founded in 1972 by six local churches with the goal of helping people who needed food and clothing. Today it serves communities in northern Dakota County.

“Dawn’s experience in

in the last three years, been on medication for stomach issues, received a new heart valve in April 2022, and has had 25 injections to ease the pain in her knees. Up in the treehouse, she

revealed her secret to living a full and active life. It revolves around exercise, a good diet and positive thinking.

“You need strength and balance and confidence,” she said. “If you lose your confidence you’re done.” She also hinted at her faith and said each of us should “leave a little sparkle wherever you

go.” It turns out I found the sage advice I was unknowingly seeking that day.

As I was saying goodbye, Mary wanted to show me a swing she hangs from her treehouse tree, and we stepped inside her garage to see it. I barely noticed the swing because there in the garage, parked

behind her Schwinn bicycle, was a 1969 Mercury Marquis convertible. Its body had been restored but the ragtop is in rough shape, so it stays down, she told me.

“Do you still take it out?” I asked.

“No, not much anymore” she said. “It’s too hot and attracts too much attention.”

nonprofit fundraising and as an executive director made her an excellent choice for the position,” said Neighbors, Inc., board chair Beth Baumann. “The search committee was also impressed by her enthusiasm for our organization and the community we serve.”

For more information about services provided by Neighbors, Inc., call 651455-5000 or visit neighborsmn.org.

Publisher & Editor: Tim Spitzack

Copy Editor: Leslie Martin

Staff Writers: Jake Spitzack

John E. Ahlstrom

Marketing Manger: Jake Spitzack

Contributor: Roger Fuller

Delivery: Independent Delivery Service

651-457-1177

Dawn Wambeke

Crasqui

said Ramirez, who moved to the U. S. as a political refugee in 2016. “I always wanted to come back to my roots. Since I moved out of Venezuela, a part of me has always missed it…. I left my country because I didn’t have another option and that creates a hole in your soul. It [Crasqui] was an idea for me to bring that piece of home here.”

The restaurant seats 60 and has a 14-seat bar and

100-seat patio. The plan is to bring in an assortment of entertainers throughout the year to perform either on the patio or inside. Initially, the restaurant will be open 4-9 p.m., Tues.-Fri., and 4-10 p.m., Sat.-Sun. It will likely open for brunch on the weekends in the near future.

to open the restaurant of her dreams – one with an open layout, a bar that invites good conversation, and an assortment of amenities including a patio.

Vintage Records, Turntables & Stereo Equipment

Ramirez has a bachelor’s in business administration and a culinary degree from the Central University of Venezuela. Her first experience in the kitchen was helping her mom and grandma cook for their 20-plus-member family each day. After graduation, she worked at several fine dining restaurants, then co-owned a restaurant and later co-owned a catering business. After relocating to St. Paul, she landed a job in the kitchen at The Lexington, under nationally renowned chef Jack Riebel. Within about three years, she worked her way up to executive sous chef. In early 2020 she resigned with plans

Now Accepting Applications

ApplicationsAccepting

Paraprofessional - Work with students in a classroom assisting teachers, before/after-school child care OR supervise groups of students. Full-time or part-time.

Starting base wage $19.63/hr. (DOQ).

Bus Drivers - Safely transport students to and from school. Paid training & CDL certification. Starting base wage $22.90/hr. (DOQ).

Nutrition Services - Prepare and serve breakfast and lunch for students. Starting base wage $16.50/hr.

Custodian - Perform cleaning, event set-up/clean-up, and ensure safety of buildings. Full-time starting base wage $21.76/hr. Part-time and seasonal starting base wage $16.80/hr. (DOQ).

Kids Club Supervisor - Lead a school-age child care program in one of our elementary buildings and supervise paraprofessional staff. Full-time, 12-month. Starting base wage $21.50/hr. (DOQ).

For more information and to apply: sowashco.org/careers

The timing was less than opportune; the pandemic was announced three days later. Struggling to find a space to meet her needs, she settled on a different concept and opened Arepa Bar at Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis in fall 2020.

Arepa Bar serves staple meals of Venezuela such as arepas and empanadas, a contrast to Crasqui that will use traditional ingredients but offer dishes crafted personally by Ramirez. Arepa is now fully operational with its own manager, and Ramirez will spend the next few months putting her full energy into Crasqui. Several of the people she supervised at The Lexington have joined her at Crasqui, including her sous chef.

Volunteer In Your Community

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

“I want to teach people about Venezuelan food,” said Ramirez. “This menu and even the names of the

drinks, that’s home for me. All of it represents my memories and what I really miss about my country….

I’m taking the responsibility to educate people and bring them something they probably don’t know a lot about.”

Safe Summer Nights

ers, beverages and outdoor activities 5-7 p.m., Thursday, July 20 at El Rio Vista Recreation Center, 179 E. Robie St. For more information, visit www.stpaul.gov or call 651-266-5485.

In-home Foot Care

Do you have difficulty caring for your feet and toenails? Our foot care certified RNs can help you in the comfort of your home. Our goal is to enhance your mobility.

• Foot assessments

• Trim or thin overgrown toenails

• File corns/calluses

• Foot massage Schedule your appointment today!

651-726-4134

FootCare@TheFootNurse.Net TheFootNurse.Net

Submitted photo

Owner Soleil Ramirez is putting the finishing touches on her new restaurant that is scheduled to open July 25 at 84 Wabasha St. S.

WANTED

Housing

from page 1 report by HousingLink, median rent for 1-bedroom units increased only 1%, to $1,007; 2-bedroom units increased 3%, to $1,340; and 3-bedroom units increased 2%, to $1,698. Construction of affordable housing continues in the metro and surrounding areas. Affordable housing in St. Paul is identified as costing 60% of the area median income (AMI) and “deeply affordable” housing as 30% of the AMI. Currently, 83% of vacant properties are affordable, 56% are available for 50% AMI and none are deeply affordable. There are 4.2% fewer rental properties available compared to last year but 1,479 multifamily units have been permitted for new construction, a 79% increase from last year.

New developments

Work is underway on Soul Apartments, scheduled to open in spring 2024 at the former Red Cross building site at Robert Street and Plato Boulevard on the West

Side. The 5-story building will have 178 units ranging from 1- to 4-bedroom units, 143 of which will be affordable and 35 deeply affordable. The building will also have nearly 9,250 square feet of commercial space, surface and underground parking, a community room and fitness room, kid rooms, outdoor playground area and bike

storage. The developer is Minneapolis-based Schafer Richardson.

Farwell Yards, a 5-story market-rate apartment building under construction at 150 Water St., is expected to open in June 2024, offering 221 units ranging from 1-bedroom to 2-bedroom with a den. It will also have a fitness center, wi-fi lounge, plaza

and nearly 2,600 square-feet of commercial space on the first floor. The developer, Edina-based Buhl Investors, is creating another apartment complex nearby at 115 Plato Boulevard. The Harbourline Apartments will feature 5670 units, six of which will be affordable. It is slated to open around the same time as Farwell Yards. Amenities

include garden plots, surface parking, a computer center, event room, clubhouse and outdoor dog run.

The 16-story tower at 386 Wabasha St., formerly known as the Ecolab University office tower, will reopen in mid-2024 as The Kaeding apartment complex.

Indiana-based Inland Real Estate Acquisitions, LLC

purchased the property and Kaeding Development Group, LLC is the developer. The building will have 178 units, ranging from studios to 3-bedroom units. Amenities include a rooftop sky deck, access to a parking garage and several skyway connections.

Florida-based Affordable Housing Preservation Corporation (AHCP) is in the process of purchasing and renovating the 122-unit Sibley Court apartment building at 484 Temperance St. and the 114-unit Sibley Park apartment building at 211 E. Seventh St. In mid-May, the City of St. Paul gave preliminary approval of multifamily housing revenue bonds to support the project. Currently, 149 of 236 units are deemed affordable. When AHCP takes over, all units will eventually be reserved for households with incomes at or below 75% AMI, with 20% reserved for 50% AMI.

The second phase of The Reserve at Mendota Village, 720 S. Plaza Way in Mendota Heights, opens July 1. The building has 58 market-rate 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom and

Construction is underway on two neighboring developments on the West Side: Farwell Yards at 150 Water St. and Harbourline Apartments at 115 Plato Blvd.

History Theatre

30 E. 10th St. St. Paul 651-292-4323

Historytheatre.com

“Glensheen” is presented July 8-23. Set in 1977, this dark musical unravels the mystery of an heiress and her night nurse who are found dead in the Glensheen mansion in Duluth. Tickets start at $30.

Landmark Center

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

Music on the Cortile events are offered each Wednesday, noon-1 p.m., on Musser Cortile. This month’s lineup features Lazerblade, June 28; Jaspar Lepak, July 12; and Jeff Ray, July 26.

The Landmark Center offers 60-minute guided walking tours Wednesdays at 10 a.m. The following tours are free, but reservations are required: “Rice Park,” June 28 and July 26; “St. Paul’s Origins,” July 12; and “The Great River,” July 19. For more information, visit www.landmarkcenter. org or call 651-292-3276.

Ordway Center

345 Washington St. St. Paul 651-224-4222

ordway.org

“ Ordway Inside Out: Finding Her Beat ,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 15, at Rice Park. This event includes a live Taiko drumming performance followed by a screening of the locally based documentary “Finding Her Beat.” The film tells the story of women making their way in the world of Taiko drumming, which had been off-limits to women for thousands of years. Directed

Come see our remodeled store

197 Cesar Chavez St. St. Paul, MN 55107 11 am-9 pm daily www.lefresuchii.com

by Minnesotans Dawn Mikkelson (multi-Emmy Award winner) and Keri Pickett, award-winning filmmaker, photographer, author and artist. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Free.

Palace Theatre

17 7th Place W. St. Paul 612-338-8388 first-avenue.com

Trevor Hall and The Great In-Between , 6:45 p.m., Wednesday, June 28. Tickets start at $39.50.

RiverCentre

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

Twin Cities Tattoo Festival, noon-10 p.m., July 14; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., July 15; and noon-7 p.m., July 16. More than 200 tattoo artists from around the world will offer tattoos and participate in contests. Weekend passes are $65 and one-day tickets are $30. Tickets are cashonly and only available at the door.

Xcel Center

199 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-726-8240

xcelenergycenter.com

Ice Cream Popsicles Shakes Shaved Ice Snacks

Erykah Badu, 7:30 p.m., Friday, June 30. Tickets start at $80.85.

Dude Perfect, 6 p.m., Sunday, July 2. Tickets start at $29.75.

Bryan Adams, 7:30 p.m., Monday, July 3. Tickets start at $26.

Cirque Du Soleil, 7:30 p.m., July 13-14, 3:30 and

7:30 p.m., July 15, and 1 p.m., July 16. Tickets start at $54.

Thomas Rhett, 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 27. Tickets start at $60.

Madonna , 8:30 p.m., Sunday, July 30. Tickets start at $70.

Outdoor events

Music in the Parks, Mears Lunchtime Series - Free concerts are held noon-1 p.m. at Mears Park every Tuesday and Wednesday through Aug. 16. No shows are held

July 3-4. The lineup: Barlow with Bionik & Eric Mayson, July 11; My Cousin Dallas, July 12; Cassandra Cole, July 18; Rosie Rossi, July 19; St. Suburbia, July 25; Qlivia, July 26; Mellifera, Aug. 1; Joan of Profile, Aug. 2; Capital City Wind Ensemble, Aug. 8; Dale & Kathleen, Aug. 9; TBD, Aug. 15; and The Fairlanes, Aug. 16. Lowertown Sounds is a free concert series presented on Thursday nights in Mears Park, 221 5th St. E. Concerts run 6-9:30 p.m., and guests

Walter Trout will perform July 22 at the Midtown Blues & Funk Fest.

S ample St. Paul

are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the show. The lineup: The New Standards, July 13; Craig Clark Band, July 20; Molly Maher & Her Disbelievers, July 27; Jaedyn James, Aug. 3; Salsa del Soul, Aug. 10; Run Westy Run, Aug. 17; and Flamin’ Oh’s, Aug. 24. Food trucks will be onsite at each performance. For more information, visit www.lowertownsounds.com.

Bands on the Boulevard is a free, outdoor concert series featuring Minnesota musicians at the Minnesota History Center, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd. Concerts are held 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and arrive early for pre-show dancing, activities and food from various food trucks. Activities and crafts will begin at 6:30 p.m. The lineup: NUNNABOVE, July 11; Barbaro, July 18; The Northerly Gales, July 25; Ecuador Manta, August 1. For more information, visit www. mnhs.org or call 651-2593000.

Summer Nights in Rice are free concerts held 5-7 p.m. on select Thursdays in Rice Park, 109 W. 4th St.

The lineup: International Reggae All-Stars, July 13; Moonlight Serenaders, July 27; Pete Whitman Quartet, Aug. 10; Natania & Ticket to Brasil, Aug. 24; and Jimmy “Primetime” Smith Blues Band, Sept. 7.

Groovin’ in the Garden free concerts are held 6-8 p.m. every Wednesday at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook

Dr. The lineup: Flowtus, July 5; Mubbla Buggs, July 12; Eleganza, July 19; and Flamin’ Oh’s, July 26. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

The City of Mendota Heights presents free concerts at 6 p.m. at Market Square Park, 720 Main St. The lineup: Cole Allen and Sena Erhardt, July 12; The M & M Show, July 26; Helium for Liftoff trio, Aug. 9; Matt Graunke and the Crow River Rebellion, Aug. 23; and Skippin’ Stones, Sept.

6. Revved UP performs 6:30 p.m., Aug. 11, at Mendakota Park, 2111 Dodd Rd.

The City of West St. Paul will show “DC League of Superpets,” 9 p.m., July 14, at Harmon Park, 230 Bernard St. W. For more information, call 651-552-4100.

God bless America!

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.“

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28

SPECIAL EVENTS

Free outdoor movie in the parking lot

Friday, July 21 at 8 p.m.

Join us for an evening of uplifting, family-friendly entertainment. The fun starts at 8 p.m. with music followed by the magical movie Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Free refreshments.

Night to Unite

Tuesday, August 1, 6-8 p.m.

Saint James Parking Lot

This event features live music, a Bouncy House, games for all, free entertainment, refreshments and the chance to meet your neighbors

Sunday worship at 9 a.m. (in person and livestream)

Monday contemporary worship at 6:30 p.m.

No Monday worship July 3 or September 4

Saint James Lutheran Church

460 Annapolis Street West, West St. Paul 651.457-9232 | www.saintjameslutheran.com

Midtown Blues & Funk Fest, formerly the Lowertown Blues & Funk Fest, will be held noon-10 p.m., Saturday, July 22 at Dual Citizen Brewing, 725 Raymond Ave. Concerts are free and the lineup features Walter Trout, Corey Stevens, Mick Sterling and the Stud Brothers, The Jellybean Johnson Experience, Kendra Glenn and Lisa Wenger. For more information, visit www.lowertownbluesfestival.com.

Mendota Days is held July 7-8. It will feature live music on Friday, including Elvis music from 1-4 p.m. A parade kicks off at noon on Saturday, starting at St. Peter’s Church on Highway 13 and ending just after the VFW. A car show will be

held 1-4 p.m. The event will also feature a beanbag tournament, bouncy house, arts and crafts, food trucks and more. For more information, visit cityofmendota.org.

See our New Collection of Diamonds and Colored Gem Stones

Visit us for repairs and appraisals!

Summer Concerts at the Village! Dining | Retail | Health | Services www.inspirelifechirocenter.com/ soul-filled-saturday | 750 Main St. #108, Mendota Heights | 651-756-1218

651-905-1168 www.embellirgems.com

Depot 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday, July 22. Located in parking lot C, 390 E. Kellogg Blvd., the event features 60 food trucks, live music, beer/ seltzers and nonalcoholic beverages, games for all ages, $5 off purchase of $35 or more Exp. 7/31/23 Authentic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Traditional Aged Balsamic Vinegar, Gourmet Food, Gift Baskets & more 651-686-4710 www.theolivegroveoliveoil.com Free hearing test New technology, old fashion service 651-240-8139 https://americasbesthearing.com Call 651.450.7273 750 Main St. Ste 217, Mendota Heights

June 28 Tiger Ries July 12 Cole Allen and Sena Erhardt July 26 ........ The M & M Show Aug. 9 Helium for Liftoff trio Aug. 23 Matt Graunke & the Crow River Rebellion Sept. 6 ........ Skippin’ Stones Prepare your eyes for all the summertime adventures ahead! SCHEDULE YOUR EYE EXAM TODAY! 740 Main St., Mendota Heights, MN 55118 (651) 686-9393 EyesOfMendota.com

a doggie station and more. The music lineup is Whiskey Stone, 11a.m.-2 p.m.; Skitzo Phonic, 2:30-5:30 p.m; and Tyte Phitt, 6-9 p.m. For more information visit www. mnfoodtruckfestival.com. $500 Off Full Treatment www.minnesotaorthodontics.com

Mendota Heights Highway 62 & Dodd Road Mendota Heights

An up-close look at our national mammal: the American bison

Tim Spitzack Editor

For the first time in nearly 150 years, American bison are once again roaming the prairie along the Mississippi River. Our nation’s national mammal was reintroduced to Spring Lake Park Reserve in northern Dakota County last fall and the 8-head herd has already expanded by 50% – four calves were born this spring. Today, the herd allows us to get a glimpse of what the natural prairie looked like in ages past and to observe first-hand how bison benefit the landscape.

Over the past decade, Dakota County has been working to restore about 150 acres of the reserve to its native habitat by removing invasive species and doing controlled burns to promote the growth of wildflowers and other plants. Today, the bison are lending a hand –or a hoof, as it were. They boost the ecosystem by grazing on grasses, thus giving wildflowers the chance to flourish. Their hooves embed wildflower seeds into the soil, helping promote plant growth. As wildflowers increase, they attract more pollinators, which in turn help

create a healthy habitat that supports other insects and animals.

Dakota County worked with the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd Partnership to bring the bison to Spring Lake Park Reserve last October. The partnership, which includes the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Zoo and the Zollman Zoo, seeks to establish a herd of 500 bison around the state that have no cattle genes. The Spring Lake Park project was made possible

by a $560,000 Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund grant and about $851,000 in state bonding.

As Dakota County developed its reintroduction project, it received support from the Tribal Historical Preservation Office of the Upper Sioux Community. Bison were instrumental in the lives of Indigenous communities, who used them for food, clothing, fuel, tools and shelter. They also hold spiritual significance for Indigenous people. Millions of

bison once roamed North America but were decimated by Westward Expansion. As European settlers pushed west, the bison population lost grazing ground and was hunted nearly to extinction. By the late 1880s, only a few hundred remained in the U.S.

The bison at Spring Lake Park Reserve roam free within three large fenced-in paddocks, and are periodically moved between the paddocks. The public may view the bison by hiking or biking along the Mississippi River

Greenway trail through the lower park reserve at the western side of the park. Parking is available at the Fahey Trailhead at 13690 Pine Bend Trail, Rosemount.

Facts about the American bison

Information from the U.S. Department of the Interior

• The American bison was named the national mammal on May 9, 2016.

• Bison are the largest mammal in North America. Male bison (bulls) weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand 6 feet tall, while females (cows) weigh up to 1,000 pounds and reach a height of 4-5 feet.

• Cows begin breeding at the age of two and have just one calf at a time. For males, the prime breeding age is six to 10 years. Bison calves weigh 30-70 pounds at birth. Most are born from late March through May and are orange-red in color, earning them the nickname “red dogs.” After a few months, their hair starts to change to dark brown and their characteristic shoulder hump and horns begin to grow.

• Bison can live up to 20 years. The average lifespan is 10-20 years.

• You can judge a bison’s mood by its tail. When it hangs down and switches naturally, the bison is calm. If the tail is standing straight up, watch out, it may be ready to charge. No matter what a bison’s tail is doing, remember that they are unpredictable and can charge at any moment.

• Bison are fast. They can run up to 35 miles per hour and are extremely agile and can spin around quickly. They can jump high fences and are strong swimmers.

• Bison wallow in the dirt to deter biting flies and help shed fur. Male bison also wallow during mating season to leave behind their scent and display their strength.

• Bison have poor eyesight but excellent senses of smell and hearing.

• Cows and calves communicate using pig-like grunts. During mating season, bulls can be heard bellowing across long distances.

• Yellowstone National Park is the only place in the U.S. where bison have lived continuously since prehistoric times.  In 2021, Yellowstone’s bison population was estimated at 5,450, making it the largest bison population on public lands.

The Eddies unite with Songs of Hope for annual concert

Tom Surprenant Contributor

It was on a warm night in July 2003 when a crosscultural tradition took root on the shores of the Mississippi River. It began when a company of young singers from eight countries climbed aboard a school bus for a trip to Harriet Island to see the world-famous river and hear traditional river songs performed by The Eddies on the River, a local singing group.

The organizers of the event were two old friends, Phil Platt, an original member of The Eddies, and Jeanne Junge, co-founder and artistic director of Songs of Hope, a St. Paul-based nonprofit that offers performing arts camps and performances.

Since 1991, Songs of Hope has held camps each summer for kids ages 10 and older from countries around the world. The kids spend their first three weeks in rehearsals. Then, over 18 days, they perform up to 25 times throughout the Twin Cities

and beyond. For many, it’s their first time in the United States.

The Eddies started out as a book club organized by a group of male friends who got together to drink beer and discuss books. They quickly discovered they also enjoyed singing together. After a few sessions, the members decided the singing was more fun than the book discussions. It was then they transformed themselves into The Eddies on the River.

In 2002, Songs of Hope participants attended a local concert by The Eddies. It was there that Junge told Platt how excited the kids were to see the Mississippi River. It immediately occurred to them that it would be a great experience for the kids to listen to traditional songs while sitting along the river. The two friends left with a promise to schedule a singing event for the following summer – a promise they kept and have honored to this day.

The event grew into something more than a simple

concert when Platt suggested that The Eddies and the Songs of Hope company take turns singing for each other. The Eddies would sing a song then the Songs of Hope company returned the favor with a selection from their concert program. Near the end of that magical night in 2003, The Eddies finished by singing, “What do you do (with a drunken sailor),” with the kids joining the choruses. Even today, Junge is a little embarrassed to admit how many 12-year-olds from around the world have gone home from St. Paul knowing words to the slightly scandalous sea shanty.

In 2020 and 2021, the pandemic halted performances of both The Eddies and the Songs of Hope company, but last year the tradition at Harriet Island resumed. This year, the groups decided to expand and will host a joint concert with shared singing and audience participation. Songs of Hope received a grant from St. Paul’s Cultural

STAR program to support the concert, held at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, July 15, on Wacouta Commons Park at 465 Wacouta St., St. Paul. In case of rain, it will be held inside the nearby First Baptist Church of St. Paul. The event is free.

Songs of Hope will also host its 30th anniversary

party in July. The event will feature the premiere of a new documentary on the nonprofit followed by a full concert of Songs of Hope featuring 50 performers from Vietnam, Turkey, Israel, Finland, Italy, Jamaica, Guatemala, Mexico and the United States. The event will take place at 7:30 p.m.,

Saturday, July 29 at the Celtic Junction Art Center, 836 Prior Ave., St. Paul. For more information, visit www.soundsofhope.org

Tom Surprenant is program director for Songs of Hope. He lives aboard a houseboat at Harriet Island. Chuck Lentz of the Eddies also lives on the West Side.

Dakota County photo

Submitted photo

Songs of Hope members on a sightseeing trip to the Mississippi River.

C ommunity

While opinions differ about the state legislature’s signature accomplishments this session, there is no disputing that the past five months at the State Capitol marked the most impactful legislative session in decades. This proved true in a profound way for counties, too. Below are a few key state legislative changes that will significantly affect county services and costs for residents of northern Dakota County.

$5 million for public safety - One-time state funding of $5 million to Dakota County will be used for purchase and replacement of safety equipment and for work on the county jail. Local cities are receiving public safety funding as well. The State also approved a larger reimbursement to counties, including Dakota, that handle probation services. This will ease the burden on local property taxes.

Property taxes - Six million dollars a year in ad -

TPAC events

Unless noted, all activities take place at Thompson Park Activity Center, 1200 Stassen Lane, West St. Paul. Events are for ages 55 and older. To register, call 651403-8300.

Nice Cars & Ice Cream, 1-2 p.m., Wednesday, July 26. Classic cars and new electric cars will be on display throughout Thompson County Park. The event includes ice cream sundaes and music. Free.

Neighborhood Garden Tour, 9:30-11:45 p.m. Carpool will meet at the TPAC office at 9:15 a.m. Space is limited to 12 people. Cost is $12.

Conversational Spanish for Beginners, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Wednesdays, July 12-Aug. 23. Registration required. $40 for seven sessions.

Looney Tunes, 11 a.m.noon, Monday, July 24. Traveling naturalist Melonie Shipman will share an uncommon presentation on the common loon. Registration required. Cost is $8.

Neighbors, Inc. volunteer opportunities, 10-11 a.m., Tuesday, July 25. Registration required. Cost is $3 plus a food shelf donation or $8 without.

Mystery Book Club , 10:30 a.m.-noon, second Tuesday of the month. $10 annually.

Computer help, 9 a.m.noon each Monday. TPAC

Joe Atkins Dakota County Commissioner

ditional County Program

Aid from the State to Dakota County will help hold down county property taxes for 2024. Dakota County currently is home to Minnesota’s lowest county property taxes, per capita, out of the state’s 87 counties, and additional state aid will help allow this to continue. The homestead exemption and other tax credits were also tweaked to help hold down property taxes for homeowners.

$6 million grant for

volunteer mentors assist with questions regarding handheld devices and home-based technology. Free.

Duluth Vista Fleet Cruise, Wednesday, Aug. 9. Must register by July 7. Enjoy a one-hour harbor cruise to experience the wonders of Lake Superior. Cost is $99; includes lunch and transportation.

Bikes for kindergartners

Garlough Environmental Magnet School in West St. Paul is seeking nearly $13,000 in donations to purchase 50 bikes to be used in kindergarten PE class. The school is working with the nonprofit All Kids Bike, which offers an 8-week Learn-to-Ride curriculum, Strider bikes, pedal conversion kits, helmets, a teacher instruction bike and teacher training. At Garlough, the program would annually teach approximately 75 kindergarten students how to ride a bike. The equipment is expected to last 7-10 years.

All Kids Bike is a program of the Strider Education Foundation. It was launched in 2018 and is now in more than 900 schools in all 50 states. The goal is to get kids more physically active and reduce child obesity. According to the foundation, children spend an average of seven hours a day on a screen.

For more information or to make a donation,

mental health crisis center

- The State awarded Dakota County a $6 million grant to help construct a crisis and recovery center in West St. Paul. The project will help people get mental health care locally, offering a welcoming place for mental health assessment, support and shortterm residential treatment. Thank you to local legislators for their work on this project, which will be located next to the Dakota County Service Center on Mendota Road.

$2 million for Thompson County Park - Dakota County also received a state grant to continue improvements at Thompson County Park near Butler and Highway 52, with a focus on accessibility and natural resource protection.

Transportation and housing - Over $20 million annually will flow directly into Dakota County for additional investments in roads, bridges, transit and af-

fordable housing. Local cities will receive additional funding for these purposes as well. To pay for this increase in funding to local governments, the legislature approved a one percent increase in the sales tax metrowide as well as new retail delivery fee.

Cannabis - Legalization of marijuana for adult use will impact local governments in ways we are still researching. For good or ill, the new law places limits on local control of where and how marijuana can be grown, distributed and sold.

In other, non-legislative news…

Public safety town meeting - South Metro Fire Chief Mark Juelfs and South St. Paul Police Chief Brian Wicke joined me for a public safety-focused town meeting recently. Thank you to Chiefs Juelfs and Wicke as well as everyone who participated in a lively discussion focused on activity

in South St. Paul and West St. Paul. This was my third town meeting in the last two months and the feedback from more than 130 attendees guides my work as county commissioner. For anyone unable to join me at a town meeting, I can always be reached at 651-438-4430 or Joe.Atkins@co.dakota.

mn.us.

Road repair vote - In June, the Dakota County Board voted to award more than $10 million in road repair work across Dakota County. The bids received were very competitive and came in $1.2 million under preliminary estimates. The largest of 19 different projects starts in South St. Paul and extends south into Inver Grove Heights, but there are also projects in West St. Paul, Mendota Heights and elsewhere across the county. Local cities are also starting up significant road preservation and repair projects.

Garlough mural project

and bison earn national awards - Dakota County projects are receiving prestigious national awards on July 23, including the Garlough Tunnel mural created by elementary school students in West St. Paul and our new bison herd at Spring Lake Park Reserve in Rosemount. The National Association of Counties selected the nation’s top projects, out of over 3,000 counties nationwide.

Baby boom - Dakota County’s bison herd grew from eight to 12 over the past two months, with the birth of four calves. Our grant-funded American bison project is part of the Minnesota Conservation Herd, which aims to restore the nation’s official mammal to 500 animals here in Minnesota.

Next month we will look at more local projects and services, as well as a few amazing individual achievements.

visit allkidsbike.org/give.

Volunteers needed

DARTS seeks volunteers to mow lawns for area seniors. The nonprofit encourages groups of friends, families and coworkers to adopt a yard for the summer to help a senior remain independent for as long as possible. To sign up or to learn more, contact DARTS at volunteer@darts1.org or call 651-455-1560.

Host families needed

ASSE International Student Exchange is seeking families to host high school exchange students studying at local high schools this coming school year. Families may select boys or girls ages 15-18 from all over the world. The students have received a scholarship to cover their expenses. For more information or to apply, call Tammy at 715-497-6696 or visit www.host.asse.com.

Tour de Rec

The City of West St. Paul will have free games, activities and arts and crafts for youth ages 6-12 at parks this summer. No registration required. Hours are 1:30-2:30 p.m. The traveling program will be at Harmon Park July 18, Mendakota Park July 25 and Garlough Elementary Aug. 1.

Members of Humboldt High School class of 1946 recently celebrated their 77th reunion at Joseph’s Restaurant on the West Side. Attending were (back row) Joe Zaine, Betty Manteufel Root, Delores Reimer Trombley; (front) Gerry Miller, Willa Mae Busse Munch, Betty Lou Lindgren Rosas and Phyllis Kress Brown. Not shown are Bob Backlund and Mary Claire Maher.

Submitted photo

P ostscript

Footprints

“They put in a new sidewalk,” my neighbor said, “and the first thing that happened was a cat walked across the cement and left little footprints.”

My neighbor was amused. “I hope they leave them. They’re so cute!”

I thought those prints would probably survive. No one was going to take the trouble to cover up a few cat prints on the sidewalk.

A few years back, they started putting poetry on sidewalks, laid right into the cement. I stop and read the poetry on my walk. I’ll

Neighbors, Inc.

By Heidi Satre Director of community engagement

Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com

ponder for a moment or two, then move on. I’m not great with poetry. It fills me with questions that have no answers.

I want to ask the poet,

Get to know Neighbors

It’s Christmas in July at Neighbors! July is typically the month we begin planning for the upcoming holiday season, including our annual Holiday Gift Program. It was one of the first programs Neighbors offered and has been a tradition since the first distribution event in 1974, when clothing, gifts and food were handed out at the Armory in West St. Paul.

Session recap

As we enjoy the festivals, music and outdoor activities that make Minnesota summers so wonderful, the transformative 2023 legislative session has given us many more reasons to celebrate this year. This was a historic session that delivered on the DFL’s promises to build an economy that works for all Minnesotans; protect rights, expand freedoms and defend democracy; lower the costs of health care and childcare; and ensure safe communities, strong schools and a healthy climate for all.

I’ve spent several decades at the Capitol as a legislator, and this has been the best session of my entire career. We passed laws that will create more affordable housing and establish paid family and medical leave for all Minnesota workers. We made sure no student goes hungry in school and boosted teacher recruitment programs. We delivered $3 billion in tax cuts – the largest package in state history – which will help seniors, renters, homeowners and working families. And

“Can you tell me the rest of the story?” But there is no more. I’m sure the poet would be disappointed in me but I like reading the poetry anyway.

Some pavement was replaced recently, and a leaf landed on it. There remains a perfect leaf print, and I took a picture of it. If I see the cat prints, I’ll take a picture of them, too. I’m proud of that cat, leaving its mark.

Several years ago, I was camping in the northeast corner of New Mexico. I took a guided hike that showed prehistoric tracks. The tracks were made by dinosaurs when that piece of land, now desert, had been right at the edge of an ancient sea that stretched

all the way to Canada. The land by the shore of this sea was jungle. The interpretive signs said there were a lot of animal tracks right there because it was easier to walk on the beach than through the dense jungle. Just like today, creatures liked walking along the beach. The sand was dense, with a lot of clay in it, and many of those prints were filled in and eventually turned to solid rock. The tracks on display in this park were estimated to be 200 million years old. I tried to imagine leaving footprints that lasted 200 million years. I failed. But the most interesting part to me was one particular dinosaur track where the paleontologists said the

dinosaur had slipped. They knew this because dinosaurs held their tails aloft and only touched them to the ground when they needed extra stability – if they were going to fall. And that’s what happened. A dinosaur was walking along this beach –I’m going to imagine it was a nice sunny day – the sand (with all that clay in it) was slippery and…whoops!

She slipped and caught herself in the nick of time with her tail. Then she kept walking. We don’t know what happened after that one moment in time – that moment that happened 200 million years ago. Just like the poems in the sidewalk, there is no more. But today we can still see her tracks.

I love that.

The cat prints and the poetry and the leaf print in the cement will not last 200 million years. I’ve no idea if the planet will be here that long. But they will last longer than the poet who wrote the words or the cat who left the prints or the tree that dropped the leaf. And I think that is, somehow, wonderful.

I’d like to leave a small print somewhere. Nothing big. Nothing ostentatious. Maybe just a book that is in print for a few years before it disappears. That would be nice. Maybe just a record of a time when I slipped and –at the last moment – caught myself. Till next time.

The program has taken many different shapes and adapted throughout the years to best serve our neighbors in need.

Today, our Holiday Gift Program continues to serve people in need during the holiday season with toys and gifts for children and gifts for seniors age 65 and older. Here is an overview of how the program connects generous community sponsors with families experiencing need.

In early October, families

Minnesota worker can easily save for their future and ensures financial stability in their later years. I first introduced these bills as part of the Women’s Economic Security Act of 2014, and I’m proud to have seen them cross the finish line.

and seniors experiencing a financial need complete an online application to receive gifts. Each applicant completes a wish list of 4-5 items, giving suggestions of what types of gifts they would enjoy. (Think of a letter to Santa.) At the same time, individuals and groups sign up online to sponsor a family. Neighbors anonymously matches families with sponsors and shares the families’ wish lists with them. We try to match all

• $2.2 million to remodel Neighborhood House at the Wellstone Center

of the families and seniors requesting assistance and, thanks to the generosity of our community, we have successfully been able to do that so far.

We notify sponsors of their matches around midNovember. After receiving their family’s wish lists, sponsors shop for gifts then deliver them to Neighbors within three weeks. Once we receive the gifts, we notify the families to pick them up. Neighbors delivers gifts

to families who lack transportation.

The entire program is wrapped up before Christmas so families can enjoy the holiday together. One of our grateful gift recipients had this to say: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have made my family’s Christmas so very special. It was a rough year for me, and knowing my kids will get the Christmas they deserve brings tears to my eyes.”

great strides this year after six years of gridlock, and I look forward to continuing this new era of listening and legislating in 2024.

we protected and expanded the fundamental rights of Minnesotans, including guaranteeing the right to reproductive health care.

I’m particularly happy to celebrate some new laws that I’ve spent years working on at the Capitol. One is the Earned Sick and Safe Time Act, which will allow all Minnesota workers to take time to care for a sick child, heal from an illness or recover from sexual assault, without fear of losing vital income. Another is the Secure Choice Retirement Program Act, which creates a statewide retirement savings program so that every

I made our community a top priority as I led the charge to pass a $2.6 billion infrastructure and jobs bill. I secured funding for important and exciting projects in St. Paul and West St. Paul, including:

• $28.5 million to complete the rebuild of the 3rd Street and Kellogg Bridge

• $8 million for the Mississippi River Learning Center in Crosby Farm Regional Park

• $6.2 million to design RiversEdge Park in downtown St. Paul, a terraced park from the bluff to the riverbank

• $2.5 million to build an inclusive and accessible playground for all children, including those with intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities, in the West 7th Neighborhood

• $2 million to design improvements to Thompson County Park in West St. Paul, which may include a pollinator promenade, creek restorations, Dakota Lodge renovations, a greenway rest area with picnic shelter and a sledding hill.

The laws we passed this session are popular and proven policies, and they’ll improve Minnesotans’ lives in the short and long term. As states across the country cut funding for lifesaving programs and deny their residents’ fundamental rights, Minnesota has become a beacon of people-focused policy and will be a magnet for people to move here because their rights are protected, and they have access to workerfriendly programs like paid family and medical leave.

From the North End to downtown, from the West Side to West St. Paul, we’re in this together to make life better for our neighbors, our families and all of Minnesota. We have made

Mission accomplished

Last year Lani Thompson Schrandt, youth director at Mendota Heights Methodist Church, and her students set an ambitious goal for their group: they vowed to serve 100,000 meals to people in need within one year’s time. The group of 18 youth, ages 11 to 17, worked diligently to accomplish their mission and have since tallied 101,023 meals. They assembled meal packets at Feed My Starving Children, served meals at Union Gospel Mission, hosted food drives, served at a local Loaves and Fishes dinner program and made sandwiches for the homeless. The group and some of its helpers are shown here at Feed My Starving Children.

Sen. Sandra Pappas District 65

2-bedroom plus den units. Features include indoor pickleball courts, coffee and wine bars, an outdoor pool, rooftop patio, community room, lounge with a multisport simulator, fitness center and climate-controlled garage.

The Vaquero, a 5-story 170-unit apartment building, is expected to break ground this summer or fall at the corner of Concord Exchange and Grand Avenue in South St. Paul. Developer DRS Investment VIII, LLC, in partnership with Master Properties, will bring plans

to the the City Council for approval by late September.

The building will have 34 affordable units available at 50% AMI, heated underground parking, a swimming pool, rooftop patio, community rooms and exercise facilities.

The Backyards apartment

building is expected to open this November at 205 Concord Exchange N., South St. Paul, next to the newly constructed Yards apartments. It will feature 111 marketrate units, including 1- and 2-bedroom apartments, a rooftop deck, underground parking, fitness center and

business center. The exterior will have artwork depicting historic landmarks of South St. Paul and the Mississippi River. The developer is The Beard Group of Hopkins, which also created the Yards. Thompson Square, 1513 Timberwood Lane in West St. Paul, features newly con-

structed 3-story townhomes, each with 3-bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a two-car garage. Twelve are currently under contract and eight others are ready for move-in. Another 37 will be built in the next year or two. The developer is Ohio-based M/I Homes.

Minnesota Housing, the state’s housing finance agency, offers several loan programs to help Minnesotans achieve their dream of homeownership. It has programs for first-time and repeat homebuyers.

The Start Up program is for first-time homebuyers. If you’ve never owned a home or it’s been more than three years since you’ve been a homeowner, you may be considered a firsttime homebuyer. If you’re not a first-time homebuyer but want to refinance your home, the Step Up program might be the right option. The agency also offers downpayment and closing cost loan options. Start Up and Step Up program first-mortgage loans can be combined with Minnesota Housing

downpayment and closing cost loans of up to $18,000. Program income limits are now up to $142,800 statewide.

Homeownership education classes may be required for some homebuyers using Minnesota Housing’s mortgage loan programs, and is usually available at little or no cost to the homebuyer. The Minnesota Homeownership Center can connect you with a homeownership advisor who will guide you through the homebuying process, provide tips to improve your credit score and

more. To find a homeownership advisor, visit www. hocmn.org/find-an-advisor.

The Homeownership Capacity Program offers financial coaching to help you plan for homeownership. This program can help you understand your credit, create a budget, reduce debt and create a savings plan. For personalized financial coaching, visit the Homeownership Capacity Program provider list at www. mnhousing.gov by searching “Homeownership Education.”

Minnesota Housing works

with local lenders who can answer questions about program eligibility and help you understand the features of the various programs. Contact a participating Minnesota Housing lender at www. mnhousing.gov and search

“Find a Lender.” Be sure to let the lender know that you are interested in a Minnesota Housing loan.

To learn more about Minnesota Housing’s loan programs, visit www.mnhousing.gov.

AARP applauds Senator Sandy Pappas and all the Minnesota state lawmakers who helped pass Secure Choice, which will give more than 750,000 hard-working Minnesotans an easy way to save for retirement automatically from their paychecks.

AARP Minnesota fought for Secure Choice to ensure that all workers have a chance to save for their future and retire with dignity, at no cost to employers.

Thank you to the thousands of AARP members across the state for their advocacy and to our legislators for ensuring that all workers have a chance to put aside the money they need to take control of their future. It’s good for our workers, good for our small businesses, and good for our state.