St. Paul Voice March 2024

Teen from Two Rivers named to West St. Paul City Council

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

If you’ve watched or attended a West St. Paul City Council meeting recently you’ve likely noticed the council has a new member that is noticeably younger than the rest. McKinley Cherrier, a junior at Two Rivers High School, has become the first-ever junior councilmember of the West St. Paul City Council. In this newly created role, he attends the bimonthly city council meetings throughout the year and votes on all council matters, although his votes hold no legal weight. The Council’s goal of bringing him on board is to help ensure that all voices in the community are being heard, including those of youth.

As of press time, Cherrier had four meetings under his belt and said the experience has been positive overall and a great learning opportunity.

“The fundamental thing is, I can help represent a bunch of different people from the school and even just people in the community more

The St. Paul

Spring Home Improvement

New apartment complex offers affordable option for seniors

One of Karen Reid’s first tasks when she became executive director of the Neighborhood Development Alliance (NeDA) 26 years ago was to work with the City of St. Paul to figure out what to do with the half-acre property at 617 Stryker Ave., home to a vacant gas station. Nothing materialized at that time, but after several failed proposals from other developers in the following decades NeDA came back around and got the go ahead in 2021 to build an apartment complex for low-

income seniors on the site. The Stryker Apartments were unveiled in mid-November, offering 57 units for seniors ages 55 and older, two community rooms, patio and picnic space, raised garden beds, elevators, 19 off-street parking spaces and more.

“I just really can’t believe it,” said Reid with a laugh. “I started here when we were first looking at the site. I’m going to be retiring this spring when this site is completed [final documents and leasing], so my work here is done.”

Three-fourths of the units are reserved for seniors making less than 30% of the

TriDistrict Community Education fosters a tight-knit community

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Suzanne Ross learned the art of knitting at age nine from her mother and rediscovered her passion for it when her own children were in sports. It proved to be a great way to keep her restless hands busy while sitting in bleachers for hours on end. After honing her skills for about six years, she decided to share them with others. Today she is an instructor with TriDistrict Community Education, a partnership of ISD 197, ISD 199 and South St. Paul Public Schools.

“Knitting is one of my big passions,” said Ross, who has been teaching for 12 years. “I just love the creativity of it. It fills me with joy, and I wanted to share that with other people.”

Community Ed offers dozens of low-cost adult enrichment classes ranging from cooking to exercise to creative arts. Classes are hosted in each community – West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, Eagan, South St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights – and new ones are regularly added.

Ross offers a 4-week learn-to-knit course each fall, as well as various project classes throughout the year, including a hat knitting class each January that focuses on a different knitting technique. She also designs and publishes patterns for purchase and enters her afghans in state fairs, a few of which have earned her blue ribbons. Over the years, she and

Record-high demand continues at local food shelves

Minnesota FoodShare campaign is underway

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Neighborhood House and Neighbors, Inc. are among the approximately 300 food shelves across the state participating in the 43rd annual Minnesota FoodShare cam-

paign, an initiative of the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches. It challenges food shelves to see which one can raise the most food and money, and the Council of Churches donates a proportionate amount of funds to each based on how much they raise. While these organizations rely on donations throughout the year, the boost is especially needed this time of year

as they restock after the holidays and prepare for the busy summer months ahead. The campaign runs through April 6 and, like last year, the need for contributions is at an all-time high.

According to Hunger Solutions, a statewide antihunger organization, last year food shelves in Minnesota saw a staggering 7.55 million visits, shattering the

record of 5.75 million visits set the year before.

Neighborhood House, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul, operates the Wellstone Center Food Market, which serves residents of Ramsey County. Last fiscal year, the market distributed approximately 665,320 pounds of food to 10,777 individuals and 4,688 families. Its goal for the campaign is to raise 325,000 dollars/pounds of

food. Donations may be dropped off at the center at any time. According to Neighborhood House, $15 allows it to purchase groceries for an emergency to-go bag, $60 covers food costs for a family of four, $80 covers the cost of 30 dozen eggs, and $225 is enough to purchase enough protein for 25 families of four. People seeking to receive food must make an appointment before

visiting the market. To make an appointment, call 651789-3630 between 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on weekdays. For more information, visit neighborhoodhousemn.org.

“There are numerous factors that undoubtedly contribute to the rise in food shelf visits in Minnesota,” said Cassie Kienbaum, Neighborhood House

Junior councilperson / Page 3

Community Ed / Page 5

Stryker Apartments / Page 3

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Stryker Apartments at 617 S. Stryker Ave., St. Paul, features onebedroom and efficiency units for seniors ages 55 and older.

Cherrier takes oath

Sample St. Paul Page 6

director of Food Support Programs. “The sun-setting of emergency COVID-19 benefits such as e-SNAP, which ended in February 2023, hit our families hard. The effects of inflation – high-cost food, rent and gas prices – can still be felt. And when people have to choose between budgeting for housing, transportation,

utilities, medical bills, and food, we know that food is often where they sacrifice.” She expects this trend to continue.

Neighbors, Inc., 222 Grand Ave., South St. Paul, serves residents in northern Dakota County. Last fiscal year, the nonprofit distributed more than 901,000 pounds of food to 24,870

families – a significant leap from the year prior when it distributed 774,000 pounds of food to 17,600 families. The organization’s goal for this campaign is to raise 350,000 dollars/pounds of food. Donations may be dropped off at the lower level of Neighbors Inc., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and financial donations can be mailed to Neighbors, Inc. or made online at neighborsmn.org. Those seeking to visit the food market must make an appointment at neighborsmn.org or by calling 651-455-5000.

from page 1 Let the Back in Balance team help get you back on track to better health. We use the most advanced techniques to diagnose and treat a wide variety of injuries and ailments. Your health and safety are our biggest concern. We've taken every precaution to make our clinic safe against COVID-19.

FoodShare Back Pain | Neck Pain | Headaches Shoulder Pain | Tennis Elbow Shin Splints | Sciatica | Plantar Fasciitis Knee Problems | Much More

Summer and School-year Positions Available

NowApplicationsAccepting School-year Positions Available 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 wage $25.00/hr. (DOQ).

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

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

Now Accepting Applications PARAPROFESSIONAL - Work with students assisting classroom teachers, before/after-school child care OR supervise groups of students. Full and Part-time positions available. Starting base wage $19.63 per hour (DOQ). BUS DRIVERS - Safely transport students to and from school. Starting base wage up to $22.90 per hour (DOQ). Paid training and CDL certification. NUTRITION SERVICES - Prepare and serve breakfast and lunch for students. Starting base wage $16.50 per hour. CUSTODIAN - Perform cleaning, event setup and clean up and ensure safety of buildings. Full and part-time positions available. Full-time starting base wage $21.76 per hour. Part-time/seasonal base wage starting at $16.80 per hour (DOQ). KIDS CLUB SUPERVISOR - Lead our Kids Club Program (school-age child care) in one of our elementary buildings. Supervise paraprofessional staff. Full-time, 12-month position. Starting base wage is $21.50 per hour (DOQ). For more information and to apply: sowashco.org/careers EOE

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 EOE

Last year’s FoodShare campaign raised $11.2 million and 6.23 million pounds of food, up from $9.81 and 5.44 million pounds in 2022.

The Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches was founded in 1905 with the mission to unite people of faith and serve people in need. In addition to hunger relief services, it offers programs and services in youth development, senior support and more.

“We all know that it can be hard to ask for help [especially the first time],” said

LENTEN AND EASTER WORSHIP SCHEDULE

Church of Saint Matthew • 510 Hall Avenue, St. Paul www.st-matts.org • (651) 224-9793

Here the love of Christ shall end divisions. All are welcome.

Weekend Mass Times

Saturdays – 4:15 pm

Sundays – 10:15 am

Stations of the Cross

Mondays during Lent – 7:00 pm

Tuesdays during Lent – 12:30 pm

Saint Matthew’s Fabulous Fish Fry

campaign Dr. Scott A. Mooring Owner & Clinic Director Dr. Debby Jerikovsky Call today to schedule a FREE CONSULTATION Best Chiropractors Award 2014-2019

ALL Fridays during Lent 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Communal Reconciliation Service

Sunday, March 17 – 2:00 pm

Palm Sunday

Saturday, March 23 – 4:15 pm

Sunday, March 24 – 10:15 am

Holy Thursday, March 28

Celebration of the Supper of the Lord – 7:00 pm

Good Friday, March 29

Stations of the Cross – Noon

Good Friday Service – 3:00 pm

Easter Vigil, Saturday, March 30 7:00 pm

Easter Sunday, March 31 10:15 am

The Church of St. Matthew is a Catholic community that is a visible expression of God’s love.

Volunteers help stock the Wellstone Center Food Market at Neighborhood House, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul, which serves residents of Ramsey County. Last fiscal year, the market distributed approximately 665,320 pounds of food to 10,777 individuals and 4,688 families.

Kienbaum. “That is why the food support staff at Neighborhood House works hard to create a welcoming and judgement-free space for all. I am proud of how our staff greets, listens and seeks to support shoppers visiting our cost-free food markets. When an individual meets with one of our food support intake workers at Neighborhood House, the care in the

room is palpable. This isn’t just a job for them.”

Second Harvest Heartland, the nation’s thirdlargest food bank and one of the biggest nonprofit organizations in the state, recently announced a new “moonshot” initiative designed to cut hunger in half for all Minnesotans by 2030. Dubbed Make Hunger History, it consists of preventing

Our team is on YOUR team!

conomic Development

Stryker Apartments

from page 1

area median income (AMI) and 14 are for those with incomes below 50% AMI – max monthly income for each is $2,175 and $3,542, respectively. Utilities are included, so tenants only need to cover extra bills such as phone, cable and internet.

Fifteen of the one-bedroom units accept Section 8 vouchers, which means that those residents only pay a third of their income for rent and St. Paul Public Housing will make up the difference.

Five Veteran Assistance Supportive Housing vouchers

are also available and provide full or partial rent assistance for qualifying veterans.

NeDA worked with an Xcel Energy program to ensure the building is energy efficient. It’s heavily insulated and built with fibercement material, and solar panels may be installed on the roof if another grant can be secured in the future. Soil remediation occurred due to leaking underground tanks from the gas station that was demolished in the late 1980s.

A community garden op-

Junior councilperson

from page 1

broadly,” said Cherrier, who was encouraged by his speech and debate coach to apply for the position. “It’s nice to have the ability to advocate for people whose voices often don’t reach city government or aren’t engaged with it.”

Cherrier has been on the speech and debate teams for three years and said he may pursue a political science degree after high school. His city council term will end after the final meeting of the year. Criteria to be a junior councilmember include being a resident of West St. Paul and at least 16 years old. Applicants were asked to submit two letters of recommendation and complete an interview with the school principal.

Cherrier hasn’t delved into specific projects quite yet but

expects councilmembers to seek his opinion on youth events as summer programming ramps up. He may also attend city events alongside other council members in the coming months.

“Everyone [on the council] is super interested and wants me to speak as much as possible…to provide a new perspective,” said Cherrier. “It’s a bit of a new thing to get used to but there have been more and more opportunities for me to say things and bring stuff up, so it’s been good.”

Many city council meetings last three hours and cover a variety of topics, some of which can impact the lives of everyone in the community. There can be several presentations from various city departments at each meeting depending on

erated on the lot for about 10 years using raised beds and fresh compost for plantings.

In 2022, the city demolished West Side Groceries, commonly known by its former name, the Stryker Market. This allowed the apartment complex to be built on the entire .75-acre site and increase the number of units from 40 to 57. The convenience store, which occupied half of the lot, was shut down in 2014 following the owner’s arrest for assault with a machete and multiple license violations. Flannery Construction completed the $12 million build. Total project cost was about $14

what’s on the agenda. Cherrier said the pressure at meetings can be intense, despite what it looks like from the outside, and that it’s not like anything he’s engaged with before.

“I think I can do a lot of good while I’m here,” he said. “I know I should try my best to do good for my community, and this is an opportunity that’s completely unique in letting me do that. This is super important because even if I don’t necessarily want to be an elected official, it’s still really important to have an impact on

million and was funded by city, state and county grants, as well as federal American Rescue Plan Act funding awarded during the pandemic.

“This project was built to provide housing for very low-income seniors 55 and above that are primarily living on Social Security,” said Reid. “Just to have the option for seniors that couldn’t even afford one bedroom to be able to get a quality efficiency apartment in a nice building is great.”

In mid-February, West Side-based artist Craig David was hired to create a sculpture at the northeastern quadrant of the site. His

your local city government.” Councilmember Wendy Berry said that student interest in the junior council member position indicates that young people are realizing they can foster change in their own communities.

“As we’ve seen more dis-

final design, dubbed Floş Antiquis, calls for one large sculpture or three smaller ones representing prairie flowers and the human form. Materials include repurposed granite and stainless steel flowers. The project is funded by $25,000 grant from the Hugh J. Andersen Foundation and $10,000 from NeDA and will be installed in June.

NeDA was founded in 1989 and became a licensed general contractor in the early 2000s. All its development and redevelopment projects create affordable housing on the West Side. Previous projects include the Bluff Park

course at a national level, it can sometimes feel like there’s nothing you can do to make a difference,” she said. “In local government, you can guide decisions that can directly impact the lives around you, and that’s an

Apartments, Villa de la Sol community center and 11 townhomes known as the Wabasha Street Terraces. At the end of January, it also completed construction of an affordable single-family home near the intersection of Robert Street South and Belvidere Street East. The bulk of the nonprofit’s work consists of providing metro-wide homeownership and financial counseling in English and Spanish. For more information, visit nedahome.org. For leasing information at the Stryker Apartments, call Perennial Management at 612-4773355.

exciting thing. When we’re able to instill that in people at a young age, it will hopefully encourage them to want to join other committees or commissions or even run for city council when they’re older.”

WSP student cast in ‘Alice in Wonderland’

Nicola Wahl of West St. Paul is in the student ensemble of “Alice in Wonderland,” showing through March 31 at The Children’s Theatre in Minneapolis. Wahl, a sophomore at St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists, previously appeared at Children’s Theatre Company in “Roald Dahl’s Matilda: The Musical” and “Annie.” She has also performed in productions at the History Theatre and Youth Performance Company. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased at childrenstheatre.org/alice or by calling 612-874-0400.

Student notes

University of Minnesota

Duluth dean’s list:  Bridget

Kelly, Max Murphy, Adeline Bennett, Miles Drugge, Joseph Elskamp, Elizabeth Zellmer, Justin Ciletti, Camilla Millett, Serena Nelson

University of WisconsinRiver Falls dean’s list: Carlie Davies, Timothy Furlong, Emma Klinger, Nora Schletty, Lily Sullivan, Madeline Ticiu

Southwest Minnesota State University dean’s list: Indie Finlo, Stephanie Schierholz

St. Olaf College dean’s list: Sebastian Eisenhuth, Bella Marek, Oslo Martin Risch

University of Iowa dean’s list: Autumn Archambeau, Shannon Murphy, Justin Wheeler

University of Dallas dean’s list: Elinor True

Iowa State University dean’s list: Kally Dreelan, Dain Dolan, Benjamin Koeckeritz, Luke Mayer

Eastern Connecticut State University dean’s list: Natasha Frisch

Gustavus Adolphus dean’s list: Thomas McDermott, Frances Monroe

University of Tampa: Emma Jaeschke earned a bachelor of science in forensic science

The University of University of Wisconsin-La Crosse dean’s list: Lindsay Overell, Olivia Tomassetti

Simpson College dean’s list: Ari Ziegler

University of WisconsinStout graduates: Jessica Dewald, bachelor of science in special education; Laura Mak, bachelor of science in computer and electrical engineering

Bemidji State University dean’s list: Liam Joyce, Zoe Lennon

Purchase College dean’s list: AnAva Dubeaux

Minnesota State University, Mankato dean’s list: Gere Hansen, Lainey Pick, Tyneisha Stowers, Margaret Allie, Sofia Braun, Kyle Conney, Margaret Schmid, Sophia Schmid, Maddie Sura

St. Cloud State University graduates: Karl Gausman, bachelor of arts, economics; Kfukfu Nsangong, doctor of education, educa-

tional administration and leadership

Drake University dean’s list: Will Kloos

Missouri State University graduate: Courtney Wilson, master of business administration

Northern Michigan University dean’s list: Ava Turino

Hamline University dean’s list: Anja Otten, Ari Newfield, Edward Cina, Frankie Witham, Leah McAlees-Callanan

Emotions

Anonymous

Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step program for emotional wellness and learning to live with unresolved problems, meets at 7 p.m. each Friday at the Twin Cities Friends Meetinghouse, 1725 Grand Ave., St. Paul. For more details call Paul at 651-402-6774 or visit www. emotionsanonymous.org.

Books and Bars

Books and Bars will host a discussion of “Olga Dies Dreaming” by Xochitl Gonzalez at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Mar. 19 at the Urban Growler, 2325 Endicott St.

ISD 197 Spelling

Bee champions

The top spellers from five elementary schools and two middle schools competed in the ISD 197 Spelling Bee in mid-January at Two Rivers High School. The winners and their winning words were Chase Peterson, Garlough Elementary, Brooklyn; Elsa Holt, Mendota Elementary, disclaimer; Willow Koerner, Moreland Elementary, invisible; Royce Malapit, Pilot Knob Elementary, propitious; Aria Moran, Somerset Elementary, appreciation; Milo Scharfenberg, Friendly Hills Middle School, ficus; Natalia Carlson, Heritage

Middle School, legato. The Elementary Grand Champion was Chase Peterson and the Middle School Grand Champion was Natalia Carlson. The contest was hosted by the Optimist Club of West St. Paul. All finalists received a medallion, and the winners received a trophy and T-shirt.

‘Puss in Boots’ ballet for kids

Ballet Co.Laboratory is presenting “Puss in Boots” March 2-3 and March 9-10 at its Studio Theatre, 276 E. Lafayette Frontage Rd., St. Paul. This 45-minute ballet is specially curated for toddlers and preschoolers. Before the performance, people are invited to create a cat-themed craft and learn how to read a show program to find clues about the story they will see enacted through dance. Tickets begin at $25 and are available at balletcolaboratory.org/season or by calling the box office at 651-313-5967.

Minnesota Inclusion Initiative

The Minnesota Inclusion Initiative is offering grants for projects that serve people with disabilities, including affordable housing, voting rights and employment. The projects must be created by and with disabled people. Applications will be accepted from self-advocacy groups, disability advocacy organizations and nonprofits that promote social justice. For more information, contact Marais Wakem at maraiswakem@arcminnesota. org. The program is funded by The Minnesota Department of Human Services.

RCHS program

The Ramsey County Historical Society will present a

program on the Dakota language at 7 p.m., Thursday, Mar. 21 on Zoom. For more details, visit rchs.com.

Leather Works moves to West Side

Leather Works Minnesota, a team of crafters that hand-makes a wide variety of wallets, billfolds, belts and travel accessories, has relocated from the Northern Warehouse in Lowertown to the long-closed Joseph’s Mexican Lebanese Market, located on the West Side at 736 Oakdale Ave.

Xcel renovation

The City of St. Paul plans to seek $2 million in state funding to create a renovation plan for the Xcel Center, built in 2000. The project is expected to cost around $300 million.

The Xcel Center is one of two venues in the Twin Cities to host the IIHF 2025 World Junior Hockey Championship, held December 26, 2025-Jan. 5, 2026. The 10-day tournament will feature 29 games at the X and Mariucci Arena at the University of Minnesota. Approximately 400 players between the ages of 17 and 19 will compete in front of about 200,000 fans during the tournament. Many players from this event in the past have gone on to the NHL. This is the 50th anniversary of the event.

Comedians perform in St. Paul Camp Bar and Cabaret, 496 N. Robert St., will present the following comedians: Josh Gondelman, March 1-2; Andrew Rivers, March 8-9; Luke Pauling, March 15-16; Alonzo Bodden, March 22-23 and Larry Reeb, March 29-30.

Community Ed

from page 1

her students have created hats, socks, dog sweaters and many other crafts, but perhaps most importantly they’ve woven a tight-knit social circle.

“We do social get-togethers through the summer where we knit in the park on a beautiful evening,” said Ross. “Sometimes we’ll meet at a coffee shop and just hang out and knit and talk. You can knit and talk and have a good time, where some hobbies and crafts you can’t necessarily do that... For me it’s really relaxing. I love working with the colors and textures and I think knitting is a great hobby because there’s so much variety to it.”

Among the classes she teaches, her favorite is called “Studio.”

“It’s an open forum where all skill levels can attend and bring whatever project they’re working on, are stuck with, or would like to start,” she said. “It’s really great because every person there is doing something different, and we all share and talk.” Studio classes are typically held Tuesday evenings for five consecutive weeks and the total cost is $35. The next session begins March 12. Registration is open but is limited to 14.

Most of her students are older although some have been in their late 20s or early 30s, with some mother-daughter and sister duos. Her classes are typically held at Two Rivers High School but are occasionally hosted elsewhere.

Each TriDistrict city has its own coordinator, and they collaborate to offer popular classes in each city at different times throughout the year.

‘We do social get-togethers through the summer where we knit in the park on a beautiful evening,’ said Ross. ‘Sometimes we’ll meet at a coffee shop and just hang out and knit and talk. You can knit and talk and have a good time, where some hobbies and crafts you can’t necessarily do that.’

“We regularly receive inquiries from new instructors throughout the year but we encourage more to come forward,” said ISD 197 Tridistrict coordinator Lisa Grathen. “The essential qualification we value most is an eagerness to teach and share your passions with our community. You do not need a degree or certification, just a genuine desire to spread your interests and knowledge.”

Over the past two years, about 550 people have participated annually in TriDistrict adult enrichment classes in West St. Paul, Mendota Heights and Eagan, and Grathen expects about the same this year. She said the most popular classes are knitting, adult lap swim and water aerobics, estate planning, pickleball and dance classes for couples. She also noted that the Makers Market Craft Show held at Two Rivers High School in the fall has become increasingly popular and supports Tridistrict’s family programs throughout the year.

“We are excited to offer a couple of new courses [this year],” said Grathen. “Intro to the Power of Story: Norse and Celtic Storytelling Series is an online course that spans three sessions, inviting par-

ticipants to explore ancient tales to connect with their

self-narrative and foster intentionality. Another new course we are offering is linocut printing, on Thursday, March 21, a simple yet artistic method for creating prints that can be reproduced on various surfaces such as wood, paper, and fabric.” The Power of Story course is tentatively scheduled for March 7.

TriDistrict Community Education also offers youth

enrichment programs in each community. Classes are offered in sports and recreation, health and safety, study skills and more. Additionally, Community Ed also offers before- and afterschool care programming at elementary schools, and early childhood family education for families with preK children. For more information, call 651-403-8313 or visit tridistrictce.org.

Holy Week

Palm Sunday Worship

March 24, 9:00 am

Maundy Thursday Worship with Holy Communion

March 28, 11:00 am and 6:30 pm

Good Friday Tenebrae Worship

March 29, 11:00 am and 6:30 pm

Easter Sunday Worship with Holy Communion

March 31, 8:00 am and 10:30 am

Sunday Worship 9:00

Saint James Lutheran Church

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

Photo: Metro Creative Graphics

Fitzgerald Theatre

10 Exchange St. E. St. Paul 612-338-8388

first-avenue.com

Cat Power performs a song-for-song recreation of Bob Dylan’s 1966 Royal Albert Hall concert, 8 p.m., Friday, Mar. 1. From $59.50.

MN Children’s Museum

10 7th St. W. St. Paul 651-225-6000 mcm.org

Wild Kratts: Creature Power is the featured exhibit through May 12. Explore the secret lives of animals in habitats around the planet and go on a mission to foil a villain’s nefarious plans.

Other exhibits and activities include “The Scram-

ble,” “The Studio,” “Creativity Jam,” “Sprouts,” “Our World,” “Forces at Play,” “Shipwreck Adventures” and “Imaginopolis.”

Tickets are $14.95. Admission is free the first Sunday of each month; reservations are required and tickets are limited. The next free date is March 3.

MN History Center

345 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-259-3000 mnhs.org

“Black Citizenship in the Age of Jim Crow” is a new exhibit featured through June 9. It follows Black advancement from the end of the Civil War through World War I and features art, artifacts and photographs high-

lighting Black resilience and resistance in that time.

“The Life & Art of Charles M. Schulz” is featured through June 9. Explore Schulz’s roots in Minnesota and his role as the creator of the “Peanuts” comic strip and its beloved cast of characters.

“Our Home: Native Minnesota” features historic and contemporary photographs, maps and artifacts that show 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.” Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students, and $8 for children ages five to 17.

History Theatre

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

Historytheatre.com

“A Unique Assignment,” March 16-April 7. Following the Ole Miss Riot of 1962, a young second lieutenant in the Army is tasked with protecting the University of Mississippi’s first African American student. A relationship is forged as they

navigate the political and social segregation of the Civil Rights movement. Tickets start at $25, with discounts for students.

Landmark Center

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

landmarkcenter.org

Third Coast Percussion performs a courtroom concert, noon-1 p.m., Thursday,

Feb. 29.

KidsJam: Third Coast Percussion , 10:30 a.m., Feb. 29 and March 1. Learn about other cultures through music, dance and interactive activities. Geared toward ages 5-12. Free, but registration is required.

Urban Expedition: Brazil, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Mar. 10. Enjoy authentic music, food, dance and crafts. Free. Ballet Tuesday, noon-1

“Hairspray” is showing March 12-16 at the Ordway Center.

p.m., Thursday, Mar. 12. Ballet Co.Laboratory performs excerpts from their repertoire. Free.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration , 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Mar. 16. Held in partnership with Irish Arts Minnesota, this event features regional and local Irish musicians and dancers, Celtic vendors, Irish cuisine, and children’s crafts and entertainment. $7-9.

An Irish Day of Dance, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, Mar. 17. View a handful of Irish and Celtic performances. Produced by the Irish Music and Dance Association.

MN Museum of American Art

350 Robert St. N. St. Paul 651-797-2571 mmaa.org

“Together,” is a new exhibit on view March 28-Oct. 13. It consists of mixed media artwork created by 10 Minnesota artists with the help of their children.

“Hazel Belvo: For Love,” an exhibit in the Nancy and John Lindahl Gallery, features more than 60 pieces from Hazel Belvo’s 70-year

career as an artist. It is on display 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Thursday-Sunday, through May 24.

Ordway Center

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

St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concerts: Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, 7 p.m., March 8-9, and 2 p.m., March 10; Bach’s Double Violin Concerto, 11 a.m., March 15, and 7 p.m., March 16. From $12.

“Hairspray,” 7:30 p.m., March 12-13 and 15; and 2 and 7:30 p.m., March 14 and 16. From $44.

Malevo, 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Mar. 21. From $39. Classic Albums Live performs Fleetwood Mac: Rumours, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Mar. 23. From $39.

The Twin Cities Iranian Culture Collective presents “Voices Unveiled,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Mar. 30. From $32.

Palace Theatre

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

Greensky Bluegrass, 7:30 p.m., Friday, Mar. 1. From $30.

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, 8 p.m., Saturday, Mar. 2. From $69.50.

RiverCentre

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

rivercentre.org

Let’s Play Hockey Expo, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., March 8, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., March 9. $5 for adults; free for youth 18 and under.

35th Annual Dennis Kirk Donnie Smith Bike Show & Swap Meet, 9 a.m.7 p.m., March 23, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., March 24. $20 for adults; free for kids 12 and under.

Science Museum of Minnesota

120 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul

651-221-9444 smm.org

“Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed” is on display through Sept. 4. Presented in English and Spanish, it features more than 200 authentic artifacts, hands-on activities, lifelike simulations and more.

Omnitheater films. Tickets are $9.95. Free for children ages 3 and under. “Asteroid Hunters,” through April 7. Meet the engineers and scientists fighting to protect Earth from this cosmic danger.

“Pandas,” through April 7. Follow a young giant panda as she takes the first steps outside of her protected habitat and discovers her true animal nature.

“Back from the Brink,” through April 7. Learn how California’s Channel Island fox, China’s golden monkey and Christmas Island’s migrating crabs are being rescued from the brink of extinction.

“Deep Sky,” through June 30. Embark on a journey to the beginning of time and space and view images captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope.

“Stellar Tours: A Star is Born,” 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., Wed.-Fri., and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Sat.-Sun. Follow the life cycle of a star using the Omnitheater’s new Digistar 7 projection system.

“Recombination,” 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays. The film features the work of fractal artist Julius Horsthuis and seven of his favorite musicians.

Sensory Friendly Sunday is the first Sunday of the month. Visitors can ex-

perience a lights-up, sounddown Omnitheater show at 10 a.m. The program was created in consultation with the Autism Society of Minnesota. Admission is free for personal care attendants when visiting with a client.  Museum tickets are $29.95 for ages 18+ and $19.95 for ages 4-17.

Xcel Center

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

xcelenergycenter.com

Olivia Rodrigo , 7:30 p.m., Friday, Mar. 15. Ticket prices were not available as of presstime.

ews Briefs

TPAC

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.

Ragamala: Indian Dance, 1-2 p.m., Wednesday, Mar. 6. Explore technique, evolution and modern interpretations of this South Indian dance. $10, includes dessert. Register by March 6.

Paint Like the Masters, 1-3 p.m., March 4, 11 and 18. Paint your personal rendition of a landscape, still

life, floral or portrait.  $50 for three sessions plus a supply fee of $30.

Your Vote Counts: League of Women Voters St. Paul, 10-11 a.m., Thursday, Mar. 7. Explore a brief history of the League, how to become civically engaged, key voting deadlines, how ranked-choice voting works and more.

Maple Tree Celebration, 1:30-2:45 p.m., Tuesday, Mar. 12. Discover the magic of maple trees and their sweet treasure in early spring. $10.

Spring Cleaning and Simplifying , 10:30-11:30

a.m., Wednesday, Mar. 13.

Zestful Designs will offer tips on decluttering, downsizing and recycling or repurposing items you no longer need.  $5.

Gender & Sexuality 101, 1-2 p.m., Thursday, Mar. 14. This course covers the basics of gender identity, pronoun use, gender expression and sexual orientation. Free.

Breaking the Political Divide , 10-11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Mar. 19. Braver Angels, a nonpartisan nonprofit, will show a video and lead interactive activities that can be used to unite friends, family and neighbors. $3.

Library

The following events are held at the George Latimer Central Library, 90 W. 4th St. When registration is required, call 651-266-7000.

Baby & Toddler Storytime , Thursdays, 10:3011:30 a.m.

Learn 3D Printing, Fridays, 2-3 p.m. Learn the basics of operating the Library’s Ultimaker S3 and Lulzbot Mini 3D printers. Registration required.

Learn to Sew with Susan, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., March 2 and 16; Learn to Sew with Ella, 2-4 p.m., March 9 and 23. Bring your own sewing

machine or use one of the library’s. Some fabric and notions provided. Registration required.

Yoga and Scarves for Young Children, 11 a.m.noon, Saturday, Mar. 2.

Learn Laser Engraving with Dennis, Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. Learn the basics of operating the library’s Universal VLS 3.50 laser engraver/ cutter. Registration required.

Level Up at the Library, Wednesdays, 3-5 p.m. Enjoy video games, arts and crafts, or tech.

Drawing and Coloring Circle , 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Mar. 6. Materials provided.

PJ Storytime , 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Mar. 6. Kids are invited to wear PJs and bring a stuffed animal.

Noodleplay , 11 a.m.noon, Saturday, Mar. 9. Use all your senses to learn about bugs.

Historical Building Tour of the library, 4-5 p.m., Saturday, Mar. 9.

Library After Dark: Game Night, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Mar. 13. Board and card games for all ages.

Clean Energy Incentives for Renters and Homeowners, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Saturday, Mar. 16. Learn about clean energy incentives, find out what you’re qualified for, and what works for your home.

Mini-Maker , 11 a.m.noon, Saturday, Mar. 16. Hands-on STEM and arts program for families with young children. Materials provided.

Community Volunteer Event , 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Saturday, Mar. 23.

Read Brave Family Storytime, 11 a.m.-noon, Sat-

urday, Mar. 23. Ages 6 and under.

Craft Circle, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Mar. 27. Bring a project to work on or start a new one with supplies provided.

Home-Buying Class, 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Mar. 30. Learn about buying a home for the first time.

Family Storytime , 11 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Mar. 30. Storytelling along with puppets, songs, rhymes and activities.

The following events are held at the Riverview Library, 1 E. George St. West Side Writers , Wednesdays, 2-3 p.m. Participants bring in pieces of written work, offer each other feedback, and discuss the craft of writing.

Teen Wednesdays , Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Games, snacks, art and more for ages 12-18.

Chess Club, Thursdays, 6-7 p.m. Open to chess players ages 8-18 of all skill levels.

Riverview Book Club , 6-7 p.m., Monday, Mar. 11. The title is “Man O’ War” by Cory McCarthy.

Union Depot

The following events are held at Union Depot, 214 4th St. E. For more information, visit uniondepot.org/ event-calendar.

Minnesota Wedding & Quinceañera Expo, noon5 p.m., Sunday, Mar. 10. Free. The event also includes a fashion show. Cost is $10. Riffs, Rails and Cocktails, 5-7:30 p.m., Thursday, Mar. 7.

Free yoga classes are offered 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, and 9-10 a.m., Saturdays. Games galore, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. each Wednesday. Giant-size games are available or bring your own. Free. All ages.

Public tours of Union Depot , 11 a.m.-noon, March 12 and 26, and noon1 p.m., Mar. 21.

Neighbors, Inc.

Dawn Wambeke President & CEO

One of the original Neighbors, Inc. services, the Clothing Closet Thrift Store (222 Grand Ave. W., South St. Paul), has been a wonderful community resource for decades and benefits the community in many ways. Families in need receive high-quality, gently used clothing and household items free or at greatly reduced prices, and all community members can enjoy the boutique “thrifting” ex-

perience. Last year, we kept 62,4770 items out of the landfills. Most importantly, when you shop at Neighbors’ store, you are helping fund other high-impact Neighbors services.

Last year, Neighbors provided vouchers for free clothing and household items to 509 families, providing more than $23,000 in merchandise. Over the year, we sold more than $100,000 of clothing and household

P ostscript

Still Singing

My dad turned 90 recently, and we were all set to drive up north to celebrate his birthday.

He’s a hard one to buy a present for. My dad does not need more things. He likes using the things he has until they are completely worn out. He already has a line of slippers on his top shelf, queued up for when the pair he’s wearing is threadbare. He wore his last pair of hiking boots until his socks showed through. Besides, he said “No presents!”

So, my sister and I decided to give him music. Barber-

Carrie Classon

CarrieClasson.com

shop music was her idea. My sister and I went over to my parents’ next-door neighbors to talk to Rod about barbershop quartets. “You won’t find any,” Rod

items. We are so grateful for the widespread community support that makes this possible. Clothing donors, store volunteers, and shoppers are all essential to the thrift store’s success.

I want to stress that all community members are encouraged to come and shop. You will find vintage thrift clothing and designer brands for women, men and children. We also have a beautiful assortment of dishes, glassware, bedding and more. Items are clean and in good condition. As with all of Neighbors’ services, the Clothing Closet Thrift Store is fueled by the time and energy of many generous volunteers. Our volunteers process donations, run the cash register, ensure that clothes are clean, and even polish shoes, sew on buttons and repair ripped seams.

Here is what one of our

told us. “Barbershop is dead.”

Rod would know. He’s been involved in community groups of all kinds and keeps track of these things. We were trying to come up with some other kind of music when our party plans hit another snag because of another event happening right around Dad’s special day.

My brother-in-law, Pepe, recently received a call to work as a pastor. Pepe entered the seminary at 60 years old, deciding that, no matter how late it might be, this was the thing he was meant to do. The ordination was a celebration of his new life, and no one wanted to miss it. But it fell on the morning after my dad’s birthday. Since both were

Clothing Closet Thrift Store volunteers had to say. She herself had “swallowed her pride” some time ago to use Neighbor’s food shelf and receive clothing vouchers.

“Now that I get to volunteer in the Clothes Closet, I see how happy other people are to score amazing low-price deals. I see the smiles on the faces of the generous donors. This is really what the world needs more of. I feel like Neighbors is one big family of staff, volunteers and the community.”

When you shop with us, your purchases help fund our high dignity basic needs and empowerment services. As revenues at the Clothes Closet Thrift Store grow, we will be able to expand our Hunger Relief programming, build social capital and stability by connecting individuals to community resources, support more

once-in-a-lifetime events, we had to move the birthday party to my condo in the city so everyone could make it to the ordination the next morning.

“Maybe barbershop is not quite as dead in the city,” I suggested to my sister, and I checked online to see.

The first group I called would have loved to sing, but their bass was in for a cardiac procedure and wasn’t supposed to exert himself for 24 hours. “It’s nothing serious,” said the tenor who took my call. (But you’d expect a tenor to say that.)

The second group answered my call in Florida, where two of the members were, while the remaining members were in the Midwest. “Too bad,” the leader

families at holiday time, and serve more people in need of financial empowerment services (jobs, training, budgeting, credit building/ repair and home ownership services).

I’m excited to share that over the next year, we will be evaluating the feasibility of expanding the Clothing Closet Thrift Store and its impact. Potential goals include a larger retail location, easy drive-up for donations, and expanded evening and weekend hours. Our hope is to begin accepting larger quantities of clothing as well as more varied household items and furniture. Increased revenues will enhance Neighbors’ mission by allowing us to expand services and deepen our impact for those we are honored to serve. In addition, revenues will allow Neighbors to increase the amount

said, “but I’ve got another name for you.”

The third group said they would love to come and sing. And I was over the moon.

When they arrived, I understood why barbershop music was on the decline. One member was four years older than my dad. But they drove through a snowstorm to make it to the party and, when they came in, my dad was very surprised.

They sang for about half an hour and, at the end, they invited my dad to come up and sing bass in “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.” And he did. I watched my dad singing and was so happy we were able to do this – to celebrate with our dad on the day of his birthday, and hear barbershop music while

of free clothing and household items we provide for the community.

I am extremely grateful for the community’s long-standing support of our Clothing Closet Thrift Store. Please know that your generous support of Neighbors mission – from donations of clothing/household items to shopping, food donations and gifts of money to sharing your time and talents – brings hope to individuals in our community in countless ways every day. I hope to see many first-time shoppers here soon. Follow the Clothes Closet Thrift Store on Facebook or Instagram to learn about our promotions and sales.

I would love to connect with anyone wanting to learn more about Neighbors. Contact me at dawn@neighborsmn.org, 651-272-1135, or just stop by.

there were folks still singing it.

I escorted the quartet down to the elevator afterward and thanked them again for coming out on such a snowy night.

“I think we should do one more,” the bass suggested.

And, right outside the elevator doors, they began singing the 1932 show tune “Don’t Blame Me.” The setting might not have been the most romantic, but the acoustics were perfect. Those barbershop singers brought tears to my eyes.

I thought of how wonderful it was to spend this time with people we care about and to remember how fortunate we all are, at least for this day, to still be singing.

Till next time.

ommunity

March roars in like a lion in Dakota County

Weather folklore from the Farmers’ Almanac says that if the start of March is eventful (roaring in like a lion), then the weather at the end of the month should be quiet (exiting gently, like a lamb).

With the start of this month being so eventful for Dakota County – as set out below – I am curious if we

Joe Atkins

Dakota County Commissioner

Every

Serving Time:

can expect a quiet calm for the balance of March. We’ll soon see. I will let you know in my April column.

Biggest crime bust in state history - Federal agents confirm that law enforcement in Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties made the biggest fentanyl pill bust in state history when they broke up a trafficking operation that used the mail to send toy animals stuffed with the drug to Minnesota from Arizona. Local investigators in Dakota County learned of the trafficking last fall. They launched the joint effort that led to seizure of six packages containing 280,000 pills. Weighing more than 66 pounds, the haul had a street value of roughly $2.2 million. Six defendants arrested in the case will appear at a joint court hearing on March 7. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and was involved in 92 percent of all opioidinvolved deaths and nearly two-thirds of all overdose deaths statewide. As little as two milligrams of fentanyl

is a potentially lethal dose. This local record-setting bust most certainly saved lives.

New county library now open - The grand opening of our new county library in South St. Paul took place February 20. Located at 7th and Marie, the Kaposia Library is largely grantfunded and dramatically more accessible than the former municipal library. The City of South St. Paul operated its own municipal library for a century, starting in late 1922. While the new county library will bring improvements, like the aforementioned increase in accessibility, the city library that closed in December will always hold a special place for many, including me. Hats off to the city, the library staff and the volunteers who so passionately served the community for the last century.

The Wentworth Library is next - Planning and design for needed long-term updates will soon be underway for Dakota County’s Wentworth Library in West St. Paul. Design and con-

Maundy Thursday, March 28 11:00 am

Good Friday, March 29

10 am Family Worship

8:00 pm Tenebrae Service of Darkness

This service uses the Seven Last Words of Christ from the cross, followed by congregational hymns, Senior Choir anthems and instrumental music. This service is marked by a progressive dimming of lights and extinguishing of candles.

Easter Vigil, March 30 at 7:00 pm

This multisensory service is welcoming to all ages!

gather around fire, word, water, bread, and wine, proclaiming through story and song that ours is a God who continuously brings life out of death.

Easter

8:30,

1400

struction are expected to occur over the next two years.

Fines are now fictionDakota County libraries are now fine-free for all. We found fines to be ineffective. The return rate of library books and materials is the same with or without them, and the modest revenue they generate is outweighed by the time it takes library staff to compile and try to collect them. Those failing to return materials are still held responsible, with items overdue by 42 days or more being considered lost and the replacement cost of the item billed to the account.

Radon warning - Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that comes from the soil. It can accumulate in the air we breathe in our homes and decay into fine particles that damage the lungs. With 40% of Minnesota homes now registering high levels, radon has emerged as the leading cause of lung cancer for people that never smoked. For this reason, Dakota County makes no-cost radon test kits available to residents. To find out more, visit co.dakota.mn.us/ and search for “radon.”

167 years ago this month - Hinging on the location of a marriage of two people here in Dakota County, the most consequential U.S. Supreme Court decision in history was issued on March

6, 1857. The site of the marriage of Dred Scott and Harriet Robinson in 1837 in Mendota emerged as a crucial factor in the couple’s famous anti-slavery argument to the U.S. Supreme Court two decades later. The Scotts claimed they should be declared free because they were married in a free territory. They won their case for freedom in state court, but the U.S. Supreme Court overruled the state court decision. Historians point to the fierce, overwhelming public reaction to the decision as being key to Abraham’s Lincoln’s election in 1860, the Civil War from 1861-1865, and passage of the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. To this day, the struggle for freedom by Harriett and Dred Scott stands as a defining moment in the history of the Civil Rights Movement. It was a struggle they waged together, starting when the two joined hands and said “I do” here in Dakota County. Joe Atkins is chair of the Dakota County Board. He represents District 2, which is comprised of South St. Paul, West St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights. Commissioner Atkins welcomes input, comments and questions. He can be reached at 651-438-4430 or Joe.Atkins@co.dakota.mn.us.

Your

Financing help for home improvements

By Kirsten Partenheimer and Shannon Gerving of Minnesota Housing

If you’re a homeowner, you likely have a list of home improvements. Some are needed repairs, like replacing an aging roof or furnace, while others are passion projects, such as updating a kitchen or refinishing a basement. Making a list is easy but figuring out how to pay for improvements may not be. That’s where Minnesota Housing’s Fix Up Loan Program could help.

The Fix Up Loan Program is available statewide. Homeowners may apply for a secured loan up to $75,000 or an unsecured loan up to $30,000. Secured loans are backed by collateral or assets (like a house) while an unsecured loan is not. The loan can be used for a wide range of projects, including refinishing hardwood floors, installing new windows and siding, removing trees, adding a garage, making accessibility or energy-efficiency

improvements, and more. Fix Up stands out among home improvement financing options due to its fixed interest rates, longer repayment terms and affordable monthly payments. One feature is that homeowners with little to no equity – such as someone who recently bought a house – may potentially qualify.

For one St. Paul lender, a Fix Up loan helped her clients make needed improvements to their recently purchased home. It was not their dream home, but it was close. It was in their price range, and the inspector said it had “good bones.”

The homeowners hired an electrician but did the rest of the work themselves. They ripped up the carpet and refinished the hardwood floors, painted and made updates to the kitchen and bathroom. They used the Fix Up loan to pay the electrician, rent tools and purchase materials. The Fix Up program also allows homeowners to pay for work already in progress or recently completed. This was wel-

come news for a homeowner visiting our booth at the Energy Design Conference & Expo community event in Duluth. Two months earlier his furnace stopped working. He paid to fix it with a highinterest credit card. However, he was happy to learn that the repair could qualify for a Fix Up loan. Since his furnace was replaced within the time allowed, he could use the funds to pay off the furnace on his credit card.

Our Fix Up Loan Program has helped thousands of Minnesotans. To learn if the program can work for you, or to find a Fix Up participating lender, visit mnhousing.gov and search “Directory.”

In connection with Single Family Division loan programs, Minnesota Housing does not make or arrange loans. It is neither an originator nor creditor and is not affiliated with any lender. The terms of any mortgage finance transactions conducted in connection with these programs, including important information such as loan fees, the annual percentage rate (APR), repayment conditions, disclosures, and any other materials which are required to be provided to the consumer are the responsibility of the lender.

Renovations from page 12

want to request a visit to an active client’s jobsite and talk to the homeowner.

Review contracts word by word - A remodeling contract protects you and your remodeler. Homeowners should review contracts carefully and ask questions about terms or items they don’t understand. Pay attention to details about change orders, payment, additional

fees,

Keep design in mindYour design guides the entire project. Think about what you dislike about your current space and the intended use of the new space. Use websites such as Pinterest. com and Houzz.com to gather design ideas.

ome Improvement

Design trends for 2024

Looking to make a change to your home or yard in 2024? Here are the latest design trends, according to Houzz, a remodeling website.

Interior colors - Warm neutrals are in, like beiges, creamy off-whites and rich browns. Deep tones such as burgundy, mustard and browns are also popular. Blue appears to be the accent color for 2024.

Woven textures - Furniture with accents in cane, rattan, grasscloth and other woven materials.

Kitchens - Incorporate ‘old’ elements such as brick, clay tiles, rustic wood and arches. Natural and stained wood cabinetry is in, par-

ticularly walnut, quartersawn oak and rift-sawn oak. Backsplashes made with tile, and a slab of stone or quartz behind the range.

Bathrooms - Vanities with stained wood rather than painted white. Showers with bold tile walls, multiple shower heads, steam options, low-curb and curbless entry for greater accessibility and heated benches.

Outdoor spaces - Small screened-in porches, backyard patios and front porches for intimate gatherings. Add a fireplace or fire pit, bar or outdoor TV.

Natural gardens - Meadow-like gardens feature native plantings that attract wildlife and pollinators,

add visual appeal and don’t require high maintenance. Garden paths and patios made with pavers spaced apart to allow grass to grow between them.

Energy efficiency - Upgrades in insulation, solar, battery backups, car-charging equipment, heat pumps, natural ventilation and air filtering.

Top tips to prepare for a renovation

Whether you are planning to add a fence or deck to your backyard or an extensive remodel to your home, this guide will help save you time, money and headaches on your project. The tips are provided by the Minnesota Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Research - Taking time to research projects on the

internet and nari.org will provide a good sense of what is involved regarding cost, scope of work, return on investment and material options. You should also research property values in your neighborhood to make

sure your project is in line with other homes in the area.

Long-term plan – To ensure your project is worth the investment, consider how long you will stay in your home and how your neighborhood and family structure might change over time.

Set your budget - Deciding on a realistic budget and arranging finances to support your project are essential. Share your budget with your remodeler.

Finding professionals

- Ask friends, family and neighbors for referrals and spend time researching the recommended individuals or companies online. Pro-

fessional remodelers take their reputation seriously and hold credentials beyond licensing, such as certifications, memberships in trade associations and additional training. Check online reviews and social media to see how they interacted with past clients and peers.

Ask the right questions

- Ask your professional remodeler about their educational background, training, experience, specialties or past issues with clients, and how the remodeling process will work.

Verify your remodelerCheck the information you receive, including references, license numbers, insurance information and certifications by calling providers to verify. If you are undertaking a large project, you might

Photo: Metro Creative Graphics Renovations /