St. Paul Voice April 2024

Two Rivers boys volleyball names co-head coaches

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Men’s volleyball has been a mainstay at colleges and even the Olympics for decades but for whatever reason the sport hasn’t graced high school gyms until recent years. At Two Rivers High School boys volleyball is catching on and is now beginning its second season as a club sport. While still in its infancy, next year it will be sanctioned under the Minnesota High School Athletic Association (MNSHL).

When this year’s eager lineup of high schoolers learned their former coach wouldn’t be able to return this season, they called upon Jake Stamman, a senior on last year’s team, to take up the mantle. The recent alumnus will be co-head coach alongside his father Terry, as was requested by the school. Terry, a former school board member of eight years, has been an avid volleyball player since the ’70s and next year will seek the head coaching position.

The St. Paul

“I’m currently taking the required training to be a MNSHL qualified coach,” he said. “If all goes well, I will apply to be the varsity coach next year…. I’m excited to work with students again, especially on an athletic level. I’ll be helping kids to learn how to play a game I love.” Terry coached youth sports when his kids were growing up and has also been a volunteer tutor in ISD 197. Discovering

A two-wheeled odyssey

Spring Art Crawl returns in April

4 L ocal blogger is pedal ing every block of every street in St. Paul

Traversing

St. Paul’s popular places, hidden gems and everything in between is Steven “Wolfie” Browender, a retired video production worker with a curious eye and self-imposed goal to bike every block of every street of the capital city’s nearly 900-mile street system. He estimates he’s covered about 60% in the last 13 years and believes he’ll be able to complete his mission in the next decade. However, there’s no rush because he says it’s all about the journey not the destination.

He began the venture in 2011 to satiate his curiosity about unique things he spotted around town, such as a lawn on West Seventh covered in white stone or a van on the East Side painted as the Mystery Machine from Scooby-Doo. He also wanted to highlight the little treasures woven into the fabric of the city so other residents can enjoy them too. All along the way he’s posted monthly on his “St. Paul By Bike” blog about the unique people he meets, interesting things he learns and quirky places he discovers.

“I’ve got a proclivity to notice things

The St. Paul Spring Art Crawl will be in full bloom over three weekends – April 12-14, 19-21 and 26-28. You’ll find the works of more than 350 artists at 40 participating sites across 11 districts, and a handful of venues will feature food, music and other attractions. The Crawl always provides a stellar opportunity to explore the city and support the many brave artists exposing their creations to the world. Look for an empty space on your wall and get ready hit the streets with a few bucks in your pocket. Hours at all sites are 6-10 p.m., Fridays; noon-8 p.m., Saturdays; and noon-5 p.m., Sundays, unless otherwise noted. Details were accurate as of press time. For more information, visit stpaulart collective.org.

West Side, April 12-14

F-O-K Studios, floors 3-5 of Warehouse 2 at 106 W. Water St., will be open 5-9 p.m., April 12, noon-8 p.m., April 13, and noon-5 p.m., April 14. Visitors can explore studios and gallery spaces featuring artwork from 30 resident artists and 20 guest artists. Mediums include painting, mixed media, fiber art, sculptures, wood and photography. Complimentary beverages will be served in the lounge and some artists may have food available in their studio. Music performances slated for the weekend

Art Crawl / Page 5

Community center survey results now under review

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

The West St. Paul City Council is now reviewing the results of a recent public survey regarding the possible joint construction of a community center for the cities of West St. Paul and Mendota Heights. Nearly 900 responded to the survey and the top things people called for were a fitness

room, walking track, multipurpose gym, indoor lap pool and play pool, community meeting space and indoor playground. Other amenities mentioned were a snack bar or café, outdoor play pool, pickleball area, and an arts and crafts studio.

About half the respondents said they would pay a membership fee to use the center and about 25% were

unsure. The remainder said they would not pay a membership fee, or they would only pay if the center were located in their city. About 17% said they would support a tax increase of any amount to help fund the project and 27% would support a tax increase of up to $200 annually. Nearly a third of respondents opposed a tax increase of any amount.

Information from citymanaged fitness centers in Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mounds View, Chaska and Shakopee shed light on several challenges the project could face if approved. Such fitness centers often lack sufficient revenue and rely on subsidies to cover expenses. Additionally, membership levels at community fitness centers still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic numbers

and staffing shortages continue to be an issue.

The city hired LOCi Consulting to complete a market analysis on the project and to adminster the survey in each city last November and December. Its findings show that a community center for West St. Paul and Mendota Heights without a pool would have 2,5003,500 members within five years, whereas one with a

pool could have up to 4,000. If a center is deemed feasible, there’s still significant work to be done – including finding a suitable location –and it could be several years before anything is built.

The consulting firm is expected to present detailed financial estimates this spring and the West St. Paul City Council plans to seek more community feedback in the spring as well.

Sample St. Paul Page 6

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Bike odyssey

from page 1

that other people might miss,” said Browender. “As I biked around, I would just notice things like an interesting garden or unique decorations on a house…. The people I’ve met are so interesting. I love hearing what people’s stories are. It’s cliché to say everybody has a story but if you can coax it out, everybody does.”

To get the scoop behind things that catch his eye, he regularly knocks on the doors of homes and businesses.

Last summer, he visited the dome house at 89 Morton St. W. on the West Side and learned about its history, as well as that of the Forty Acre notch, a nearby geographical quirk in the northern border of West St. Paul. He also met with a woman who paints and hangs dozens of colorful metal artworks on her fence at 173 W. Robie St., also on the West Side. People often share amusing or moving personal stories that shed light on what he’s inquiring about, and he said he’s constantly humbled by their positivity and willingness to talk.

“I’m indebted and I’ve

learned so much,” said Browender. “In a [politically divided] time, it’s really cool to find that so many people are nice…. It just makes me smile that people aren’t afraid to be individual and do something that’s a little different and fun.” He has a backlog of interviews and expects to post his story about the West Side artist and her increasingly colorful fence this spring. The post about the dome house is already online.

Browender departs on rides from his home in Highland Park and commonly cruises for 20 or 30 miles. He’ll go somewhere specific if he has an interview scheduled, otherwise he lets the wind and his intuition guide him. He said he planned to go to the East Side twice last summer but never made it because he kept getting sidetracked in the North End on his way over. Luckily, his GPS automatically maps his rides so he can easily mark off places he’s been on the massive map he keeps at home.

Highland Park is the only neighborhood of 17 in the

‘When you hear people say something about a bad neighborhood, maybe they had a bad experience there,’ said Browender. ‘I wouldn’t consider there are any bad neighborhoods in St. Paul.’

city that he considers completely biked, but Macalester-Groveland is nearly finished, too. Coming in third is the West Side, which he figures is about 70% complete, and he hopes to get close to polishing it off this summer.

“I love the West Side, it’s so cool and it’s really hilly,” said Browender. “Between the physical barriers like the bluff and Highway 52, there’s little pieces of property tucked away that have really interesting home designs.”

He primarily sticks to streets but will hop on a trail if the street is too dangerous or he needs a shortcut to another neighborhood. His favorite trail is the Robert Piram Regional Trail on the West Side, which connects Harriet Island, the St. Paul airport and South St. Paul.

His blog focuses on a variety of subjects and features photos he takes himself. While he expects that most folks read his posts for plea-

sure, he works hard to ensure accuracy by speaking directly with sources, digging for information from credible research organizations such as the Minnesota Historical Society, and having his wife, Sue, proofread each post.

One of his furthest rides was to the Highwood neighborhood, which has no paved roads and is partially located east of Highway 61. Another leg-burner was his trip past Gerdau Steel, a factory on Red Rock Road, which is located on a peninsula that can only be reached by traveling south on 61 through Newport and then back west into what is, technically, St. Paul.

Browender has seen firsthand how the city has grown over the years. Significant changes like the demolition of the Ford plant in Highland Park and the creation of multifamily developments are apparent, but some changes have been more slow and subtle.

“When you hear people say something about a ‘bad

neighborhood,’ maybe they had a bad experience there,” he said. “I wouldn’t consider there are any bad neighborhoods in St. Paul. There might be a spot or two that’s a little bit rougher at times, but the term ‘bad neighborhood’ should be purged from our vernacular because to paint a whole neighborhood based on two blocks isn’t right….

“In the Midway area,” he continued, “there’s a district where murals are painted every year. The buildings are nice canvases for brightening up a more industrial area. Parts of the East Side have a negative reputation, and there are pockets where you can tell the houses and businesses might be a little tired but I think things have improved drastically from 2008 when there were a lot more vacant homes boarded up with ‘no trespassing’ signs. I see very few of those now.”

Browender said he’s never felt unsafe while biking or speaking with someone for

a blog post. He may get an electric bike someday but for now will continue pedaling and tuning up the hybrid bike he’s had since beginning the blog.

The Wisconsin native moved to Minnesota after college – where he got his nickname “Wolfie” from his friends because he looked like Wolfman Jack, a popular DJ in the ’70s – and has lived here ever since. While his lofty goal is still far from complete, he’s just as happy working on it as when he first started, and he’s thankful for those who help him travel down the city’s endless rabbit holes.

“It’s humbling to think that people will give up their free time to talk to me….

To the people that read my blog, I want to sincerely say, thank you very much. It’s very nice to know that my weird hobby is something that people find interesting.”

To view his blog, visit stpaulbybike.com.

Steven Browender

Volleyball

from page 1

Last year’s roster had nearly 30 participants with all grades represented. Although the team notched just one win, the players gained valuable experience.

“In the beginning, the boys didn’t know what they were doing, but I saw this progression throughout the season,” said Terry, who watched and cheered from the bleachers. “Beginning with game four they started having really competitive games against good teams, and they had some close games.”

All boys at the high school are encouraged to give volleyball a try during open gym times held the last week of March. Tryouts for the club team will be April 1-3. Twelve players will make varsity and the rest will play junior varsity.

This season, the team will play 15 games and try to qualify for the State tournament in June. Jake and Terry will be at each game, although Jake will be traveling from the University of Minnesota Carlson School

of Business, so he’ll need to meet the bus at away games rather than ride with the team.

“I’m technically the official head coach, but I want Jake to be the game head coach because the players asked him to do it,” said Terry. “I’ll certainly offer my input and advice, but Jake is going to make the decisions at games…. Most away games [last year] had a lot of fans on our side of the court, and at home we had a ton, so it was really exciting.”

The club program was spearheaded by Jake and his friends Miles Dunn and Kahlil Liden. Each participated in a school volleyball tournament their junior year and enjoyed it so much that they immediately started talking about creating the boys team. Jake was quick to credit Miles and Kahlil for approaching the girls volleyball coach at Two Rivers to learn how to make it happen. All that was left after that was to garner student interest and do some fundraising. In addition to

‘I’m technically

the official head coach,

but I want

Jake to be the game head coach because the players asked him to do it,’ said Terry. ‘I’ll certainly offer my input and advice, but Jake is going to make the decisions at games.’

private donations, the club received a $5,000 grant from a Rochester area foundation to get off the ground.

“I enjoyed the volleyball season a lot more than any of my [12] soccer seasons,” said Jake, who was a varsity soccer player. “We didn’t really have high expectations coming into the [volleyball] season, so we knew we were just playing for fun, and I just generally think it’s a more fun sport…. One of the things I’m most excited about this year is honestly just hanging out with this year’s seniors. I didn’t talk to them as much last year, but now I text and talk with them consistently, so I’m excited to coach them and maybe play with them at some open gyms.”

Despite his father’s love for the sport, Jake didn’t get into volleyball until the sum-

“I’m sorry, I must have misplaced your paperwork.”

“Your credit report isn’t back.”

“Your income hasn’t been verified yet.”

Don’t be fooled by excuses. What appears to be a delay could be discrimination.

According to the federal Fair Housing Act, it’s illegal to consider race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability or family status in rental, sales, lending or homeowner’s insurance decisions. Under the Minnesota Human Rights Law, it’s also illegal to discriminate based on one’s

mer going into his senior year of high school.

“If it had been available in ninth grade I definitely would have tried out,” he said. “I think the reason I didn’t start playing until really late is because I just didn’t have any opportunity…. There were some open gyms my sophomore year but there wasn’t a team that year and there weren’t that many guys at the open gyms because I think a lot of them thought volleyball was for girls.” He noted that the stigma has quickly faded based on conversations he has these days.

Terry played about a year of collegiate basketball at North Central Bible College in the ’80s and recalled his teammates ribbing him for playing volleyball recreationally. His response was

simple: give it a try, it’s a wonderful sport.

“If you’re a good jumper, volleyball is a perfect for you,” he said. “So many sports like soccer require speed to be good whereas volleyball you don’t need to be fast you just need to be quick-reacting and agile. And once you learn how to play you can play into your 50s for sure. I still play with

the kids, and I can still hold my own.”

The father-son duo are now busy recruiting players.

“Even if you don’t have experience, you can come play because it’s super fun,” said Jake. “It’s going to be hard at first but if you practice a lot you’ll learn.”

For more information, visit trwarriors.com/ boysvolleyball.

Jake and Terry Stamman

Crumbling city streets, and aging recreation centers and parks will get muchneeded attention thanks to $45.1 million in funding approved by the St. Paul City Council on February 28. The money comes from the new 1% sales tax that was approved by voters last fall, which will be collected beginning April 1. The tax is expected to generate nearly

$1 billion over 20 years. Nearly three-fourths of the revenue must be used for street repair and about a quarter for park improvements.  Streets that will see attention include Jackson, Dale, Earl and Burns streets, and Grand, Minnehaha, Marshall and Front avenues. Park improvements include replacing artificial turf at

Oxford Community Center, renovating Toni Stone Stadium at Dunning Park and playing fields at Highwood Hills, the first phase of converting the heating system at Como Zoo & Conservatory from steam boilers to geothermal, renovation of the HVAC system at Dayton’s Bluff Recreation Center, parking lot repair at Battle Creek Recreation Center,

and splash pad upgrades and basketball court renovations at Conway Recreation Center. Some funds will also go toward design work on the new East Side Community Center, the River Learning Center at Crosby Farm Regional Park, the River Balcony along the Kellogg Boulevard, and for revitalizing downtown parks.

Student notes

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire graduates:  Ben Kirkwood, bachelor of science, arts and sciences; Luca Ciletti, bachelor of arts, education and human sciences

St. Mary’s University: Isabella Griffin and Cecilia Flores were named to the dean’s list. Amanda Tuvey earned a bachelor of arts in computer science and was named to the dean’s list.

Montana State University graduates: Aidan Donohue, bachelor of science, business; Laura Beniek, bachelor of science, biological science; Rebecca Pyles, bachelor of science, environmental science

St. Cloud Technical & Community College president’s list: Charles Navin

Normandale Community College dean’s list: Sarah Lichter, Jacob Zeis, Amanda Nelson

University of Minnesota dean’s list: Claire Allen, Kennedy Cardwell, Caroline Casserly, Isabella Costello, Cal Johns, Mary Khalil, Adrianna Leon, Kevin Murphy, Ashley Olson, Lillian Schifsky, William Stewart, Aida Broshar, Andrea Carter, Elizabeth Castillo-Flores, Chase Elliott, Adam Gardner, Jens Henrickson, Angel Hernandez Lopez, Nicholas Kettler, Michael Landsman, Cyrus Martin Risch, Holly Mingo, Enock Moindi, Selena Moreno, Michaela Schaffer, Rachel Sechter, Russell Shaver, Brenna Templin, Sophia Watts, Tucker Weldon, Molly Altier, Emily Bowers, Adler Dickie, Baird Doud, Miles Dunn, Timothy Frazier, Mayeli Hernandez Chavez, Rachel Maslow, Annabella Meyer, Natalie Meyers, Alyssa Newfield, Anja Nilles, Anthony Rocke, Jacob Stamman, Jonathan Stamman, Sarah Wege

South Dakota State University graduate: Abigail Mae D’Zurilla, bachelor of science in pharmacy and allied health professions

Thanks

Library book sale donations

Friends of Wentworth Library is accepting donations for its Spring Book Sale April 28-May 2. Books, DVDs, and CDs may dropped off in the large meeting room at Wentworth Library, 199 Wentworth Ave. E., West St. Paul. The sale will be held May 4-8. You’ll find hardcover books for $1, paperbacks and DVDs for 50 cents and CDs for 25 cents. A bag sale is held on Wednesday. Cost is $5/bag 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and $2/ bag 2-4:30 p.m. A preview sale is held 2-5 p.m., Friday, May 3 for Friends members. Nonmembers may join at the door for $10.

Non-fiction book group

Wentworth Library, 199 Wentworth Ave. E., West St. Paul, is hosting a new nonfiction book group, beginning in April. The group will meet monthly and is open to the public. The first meeting is 1-2 p.m., Thursday, April 4. The title is “Minnesota 1918: When Flu, Fire, and War Savaged the State,” by Curt Brown. For more information, contact wentworth libraryfriends@gmail.com or 651-554-6800.

A rts & Entertainment

Art Crawl

from page 1

include David Harland, 5-6:30 p.m., April 12; Leslie Vincent, 7:30-9 p.m., April 12; Ken Takta Ensemble, 2:30-4 p.m., April 13; Todd Harper and The Eugleena Trio, 6-7:30 p.m., April 13; The Electric Honeycomb, 2-3 p.m., April 14; and Laura Sonte-Jeraj, 2:30-4 p.m., April 14. The building is ADA accessible and has free parking.

Neomuralismos de México will host family-friendly activities noon-sunset, April 13-14, at Harriet Island Regional Park.

Summit-Grand

April 12-14

Schromen Law , 319 Ramsey St., will be open 6-8 p.m., April 12, and noon-7 p.m., April 13. Longtime illustrator Thora Reynolds will be selling postcards and stickers that visually represent the foundations of American Democracy. Anthony Eaton will have two displays featuring stained glass, pottery, folded books, writing and photography.

Little Mekong Cultural District

April 12-14

XIA Gallery & Café, 422 University Ave. W., will be open 9 a.m.-3 p.m., April 13-14. Jamie Kalakaru-Mava will showcase her digital art and newly published children’s book, “Half a World Away” April 13. Ronnie Spann will host a jewelry and metal sculpting workshop April 14.

Merriam Park

April 12-14

Spatial Effects Gallery, 1759 Selby Ave., will be

open 6-8 p.m., April 12; noon-6 p.m., April 13; and 1-6 p.m., April 14. It will feature 28 artists selling furniture, paintings, drawings, photography, stone and metal sculptures, ceramics and glass objects, mixed media art and even some carved gourds. Art will be in the two indoor gallery spaces, and guitarist Joel Shapira will perform 1-3 p.m., April 13. Refreshments will be available.

Cathedral Hill

April 19-21

House of heART 2, 763 Holly Ave., will feature 28 artists selling paintings, photography, ceramics and mixed media. This is a short-term rental home and artwork will be displayed in each room. Art will also be on the porch if weather permits. Light refreshments and wine will be available.

The Milligan Studio , 459 Selby Ave., will feature bronze sculptures by Alan Milligan and glassworks, garden art, and prints and photos by Nicole Mary Milligan. Light appetizers will be available Friday night and French croissants on Saturday morning. The site will feature live music.

Virginia Street Church, 170 Virginia St., will showcase the work of 16 artists. Mediums include paintings, prints, pottery, glassware, jewelry, quilted items, photography and more. The site will feature live music and hors d’oevres.

West Seventh April 19-21

Schmidt Artists Lofts , 900 W. 7th St., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 19, noon-7

p.m., April 20, and noon-5 p.m., April 21. Eighty artists will showcase their work from the main floor and lower level of the Schmidt Brewhouse, and in a handful of other galleries and rooms. Artwork includes painting, pottery and sculpture, illustration, fiber art, jewelry, photography, glass art, Lino cut and block printing, artisan brooms and brushes, woodworks and sand sculptures. Open Palette painting and art demonstrations will take place on the 7th floor in the Rooftop Room. Red Rocket Pizza, Eggroll Queen, and KP Concessions Mini Donut food trucks will be on site in the courtyard all weekend and Buna Mobile Coffee Bar will be inside the Brewhouse Saturday and Sunday. The work of high school artists in the 43rd Annual Congressional Art Competition will be displayed in the Atrium throughout the weekend. The building is ADA accessible and free parking is available on nearby streets.

Friedli Gallery, 973 W. 7th St., will be open noon7 p.m., April 20, and noon-5 p.m., April 21. Five artists will display paintings, etchings, ceramics, prints, Native American art, food art, jewelry and more. All art will be in the gallery space, and light appetizers and beverages will be available. The gallery has on-street parking.

Raymond Station April 26-28

Dow Art Gallery & Framing, 2242 University Ave. W., will be open 5-9 p.m., April 26, and noon-8 p.m., April 27. Forty artists will be selling their photography, sculptures, metalwork, drawings, paintings and more in the gallery on the first floor. Light refreshments will be available and

free parking is available in the Wright Building lot directly across University Avenue.

Open Art Space, 2147 University Ave. W., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 26, and noon-8 p.m., April 27. Four artists will sell their paintings, greeting cards and mixed media artwork from their studios and in hallway displays. Light refreshments will be available. Parking is in the rear of the building at the intersection of Vandallia and Charles. The Jag Gallery and Paul Gaston’s Pottery Studio in the building will also be open the same hours.

The Bindery Building , 708 Vandalia St., will be open 6-10 p.m., April 26, and noon-8 p.m., April 27. E & L Bindery will feature paintings by three artists, and Lost and Bound Books will feature 5-10 artists. Snacks and beverages will be available.

Downtown

April 26-28

George Latimer Central Library, 90 W. 4th St., will be open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., April 27, and 1-5 p.m., April

28. It will feature seven artists showcasing a variety of media including painting, sculpture, photography and ceramics. The art will be in the Bremer Room on the first floor of the building, and refreshments will be available both days.

Lowertown

April 26-28

Lowertown Lofts Artist Cooperative, on the top three floors of the building at 255 Kellogg Blvd. E., will feature more than 30 artists selling their paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, woven arts, collages and more. Most art will be in hallways and gallery spaces on each floor. Enter in the back of the building in a well-marked alley entrance. Union Depot, 214 4th St. E., will host artists 5-9 p.m., April 26; 10 a.m.-7 p.m., April 27; and noon-6 p.m., April 28. You’ll find 30 artists selling paintings, photography, jewelry, mixed media art and apothecary creations from booths in the Head House. Visitors will have the chance to win prizes, and specials and hap-

py hour will be available at Union Depot’s Station 81 restaurant.

Calendula Gallery, 275 E. 4th St., Suite #130 in the Northwestern building, will be open 5-9 p.m., April 26, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., April 27, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., April 28. Twenty gallery artists and 10 pop-up artists will showcase paintings and drawings, prints and stickers, ceramics and sculptures, and more. Art will be in the gallery and the adjacent Dance Hall, and the building will also have up to 18 open artists’ studios. An artist reception dubbed “Hotdish, a Celebration of Art, Food and Friendship” will take place 5-8 p.m., April 27, in the Poppy room. It will feature an artistic cookbook created by 30 local artists.

Mary’s Pence, 275 4th St. E., Suite #642 in the Northwestern building, will be open noon-8 p.m., April 27 and noon-5 p.m., April 28. You’ll find sterling silver jewelry and artisan items created by women’s organizations in Central America.

Small yard design and installation Borders Perennial flower gardens Vegetable & fruit gardens

Small yard design and installation • Shrub removal/replacement • Borders Perennial flower gardens • Pollinator gardens • Vegetable & fruit gardens

Contact us to give your yard a fresh look.

prettyyardstpaul@gmail.com

prettyyardstpaul@gmail.com

Jim and Kate: 651-329-0457

Jim and Kate: 651-329-0457

www.prettyyard.biz

Art Crawl / Page 8

Photo: DJ Corey

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

Tickets are $14.95. Admission is free the first Sunday of each month; reservations are required and tickets are limited. The next free date is April 7.

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 highlighting 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 photo -

graphs, 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” is showing through 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 stu-

“On Your Feet: The story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan” is coming to the Ordway Center for Performing Arts April 5-7.

dent. 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

Rod Kelly Hines and

Celeste Marie Johnson will perform a courtroom concert, noon-1 p.m., Thursday, April 4. Free.

Urban Expedition: Ivory Coast, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, April 7. Enjoy music, food, dance and crafts. Free.

Skylark Opera Theatre will perform songs from their repertoire, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, April 14. Free.

Ballet Tuesday, noon-1

p.m., Thursday, April 16. Ballet Co.Laboratory performs excerpts from their repertoire. Free. Light in the Well, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, April 21. This event features music, stories of people with disabilities and an art gallery. Free, but reservations are required. BandWidth Community Band Festival, noon-6 p.m., Sunday, April 28. Volunteer-

S ample St. Paul

based ensembles in Minnesota will perform marches, concert band classics, pop, Broadway and jazz music. Free.

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-October 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 26.

“El Vaiven,” is a skyway installation in windows above Robert Street in downtown St. Paul. Created by Zamara Cuyún, it’s a dreamscape based on a real Mayan landscape in Guatemala and features a series of characters including Gucumatz the feathered serpent and Ixchel the moon goddess.

Ordway Center

345 Washington St. St. Paul

651-224-4222

ordway.org

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

From $32.

St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concerts: AnneMarie McDermott plays Chausson, Poulenc and Rogerson, 11 a.m., April 5, 7 p.m., April 6, and 2 p.m., April 7. Haydn’s Surprise Symphony, 11 a.m., April 12, and 7 p.m., April 13. Schubert’s Fifth Symphony, 7 p.m., April 26-27. $12$55 for all concerts.

“On Your Feet: The story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan,” 7:30 p.m., April 5; 2 and 7:30 p.m., April 6; and 1:30 and 7 p.m., April 7. From $44.

Schubert Club concerts: Golda Schultz, soprano, and Jonathan Ware, piano, 7:30 p.m., April 10; Daniel Hope, violin, and Simon CrawfordPhillips, piano, 7:30 p.m., April 25, and 10:30 a.m., April 26. $36-75.

Musicians on the Rise: Schubert Club Scholarship Competition Winners Recital, 1 p.m., Saturday, April 13. Free.

Mandy Patinkin , 7:30 p.m., April 19, and 2 p.m., April 21. From $68.

RiverCentre

175 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul

651- 265-4800

rivercentre.org

Fraser Festival, 10 a.m.2 p.m., Saturday, April 6. This sensory-friendly event features music, food, games and activities exploring the body’s eight senses.

Frozen Fest , 1-6 p.m., Thursday, April 11, and 1-4:30 p.m., Saturday, April 13. Check out interactive games and activities, and shop NCAA Men’s Frozen Four merchandise. The event features music, food and giveaways. Free.

Minnesota Card Show, 3-9 p.m., April 18; 11 a.m.7 p.m., April 19; 10 a.m.-8 p.m., April 20; and 9 a.m.-3 p.m., April 21. Shop more than 475 dealer tables of sports and trading cards and other collectibles. More than 40 autograph signers will be present over the four days. Ticket prices were not available as of press time.

Minnesota Roller Derby, 6 p.m. Saturday, April 27. From $12.50.

Science Museum of Minnesota 120 W. Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul 651-221-9444 smm.org

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

Virtual Reality Transporter - Use the VRT to hurtle through the cosmos at fantastic speeds, scuba dive into prehistoric seas, and join the astronauts of Apollo 11 as they moonwalk for the first time. $9.95.

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., Wednesday-Friday, and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., SaturdaySunday. 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 experience a lights-up, sound-

down 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 adults and $19.95 for ages 4-17.

Xcel Center

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

Dan + Shay, 7 p.m., Friday, April 5. From $15.50. AJR, 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 17. From $50.50.

Tim McGraw , 7 p.m., Saturday, April 20. From $139.

Union Depot

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

Riffs, Rails and Cocktails, 5-7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 4.

Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Thursday, April 18.

Games galore, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. each Wednesday. Giantsize games are available or bring your own. Free. All ages.

We reach the market you need to reach.

Our newspaper group reaches over 37,500 homes and businesses in the St. Paul area, as well as the Hispanic market of the Twin Cities. To advertise, call 651-457-1177.

Expanded Coverage www.stpaulpublishing.com Follow us!

Ticket Giveaways

Event Reminders

A rts & Entertainment

Art Crawl

from page 5

Lowertown Underground Artists, 308 Prince St. in the lower level of Northern Warehouse building, will be open during gallery hours.

Master Framers, 262 4th St. E., will be open 5-9 p.m., April 26; 10 a.m.-8 p.m., April 27; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., April 28. Ten artists will display paintings, screen and block prints, etchings, photography, paper and clay sculptures, pottery and ceramics, needle and textile art, and jewelry. Art will be in the gallery showroom and booths in the front shop. Light refreshments will be available.

Tilsner Artist Lofts, 300 Broadway St. N., will feature approximately 20 artists selling paintings, photography, ceramics, woodworks, mixed media artwork and more. Art will be in artists’ studios, hallway spaces and open galleries.

Northern Light Art Studio, 218 7th St. E., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 26; noon-8 p.m., April 27; and noon-5 p.m., April 28. It will feature a gallery exhibition and works from 20 artists. Mediums include paintings, prints, ceramics, textiles, glassworks and mixed media art. The site will also host an on-site scavenger hunt with

chances to win small prizes, and two art workshops will take place over the weekend. Pottery 201, a 6-week wheelthrowing course, is held 11 a.m.- 1 p.m., April 27, and a Finger Drawing Workshop is held 3-5 p.m., April 28.

Como

April 26-28

Pascal St. N., will host “Art on the Porch” noon-6 p.m., April 27-28. Cynthia Berg will showcase Scandinavian mixed media collages featuring abstracts and botanical themes. All art will be in the enclosed front porch of the building.

Holy Week and Easter at Saint James Honest Repentance

Holy Week

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

WEEKLY WORSHIP SCHEDULE

Sunday Worship 9:00 am

Sunday School (Pre-K-5th grade), 10:15 am

Youth Bible Study (grades 6-12), 10:15 am

Adult Bible Class, 10:15 am

Worship with Contemporary Music

Mondays, 6:30 pm

Saint James Lutheran Church

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

Front Avenue Pottery , 895 Front Ave., is celebrating its 10th season of the Crawl. It will be open 5-10 p.m., April 26; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., April 27; and 11 a.m.4 p.m., April 28. It is hosting its annual “Firing It Up In South Como!” event. Nine local artists will sell their pottery, sculptures, decorations and jewelry inside the studio, workshop space and potter’s wheel area. There are several free community clay workshops throughout the weekend. “Potter’s Wheel” is held 6-9 p.m., Friday; noon5 p.m., Saturday; and noon3 p.m., Sunday. “Hand Building Kitchen Microgreens Planter” and “Kid’s Hands-on Activity: Clay Fish Dish” is held noon-5 p.m., Saturday, and noon-3 p.m., Sunday. Food and refreshments will be available. Mark Granlund Studio, 1022 Burgess St., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 26; noon-8 p.m., April 27; and noon-6 p.m., April 28. Granlund will be selling his oil paintings from his studio.

Of Ink + Insight, 1410

Como Streetcar Station, 1224 Lexington Pkwy. S., is a new site this year. It will be open noon-6 p.m., April 27. Eight artists will showcase a variety of artworks.

Payne-Phalen April 26-28

ArT @ 967, 967 Payne Ave., will feature five resident artists showcasing their work from studios and approximately 14 guest artists in the gallery. Mediums include watercolor, acrylic and oil paintings, photography, ceramics and mixed media. Sue Sepulveda will host a soft pastel demonstration at 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

Dance classes and performances

Kalpulli Huitzillin de MN will present a free dance performance 1:15-2:15 p.m., April 28, at Rice Park.

Kala Vandanam Bharatanatyam Dance School will host a youth Bharatanatyam dance class 1:15-2:15 p.m., April 27, at the school, 2327 Wycliff St., Suite #214. The event will

also feature a short performance.

Noelle Awadallah from Body Watani will lead a community dance class 4-5 p.m., April 27, at Como Streetcar Station.

Mariusz Kujawski will host a Cha-Cha class 1-3 p.m., April 20, at the Schmidt Artist Lofts.

Nautilus Music-Theatre, Suite 190 in the Northern

Warehouse building, 308 E. Prince St., will present performances from new operas and contemporary musicals 7-10 p.m., April 26. Judit Neilsdottir will host evening dance performances April 26-27 outside her loft at Lowertown Loft Artist Cooperative, 255 E. Kellogg Blvd.

ews Briefs

CALENDAR OF EVENTS }

St. Paul Libraries

The following events are held at the George Latimer Central Library, 90 W. 4th St. When registration is required, call 651-266-7000. Visit sppl.org/events for more information. All library locations will be closed April 18 for staff training.

Intro to Adobe Premiere, 3-4 p.m., Tuesday, April 2. Learn the basic of professional video editing. Registration required.

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

Drawing and Coloring Circle , 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 3. All materials provided.

PJ Storytime , 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 3. Children are invited to wear pajamas and bring a stuffed animal or blanket.

Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m. each Thursday. Features stories, songs and age-appropriate toys.

Learn 3D Printing, 2-3 p.m. each Friday. Learn

the basics of operating the Library’s Ultimaker S3 and Lulzbot Mini 3D printers. Registration required.

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

Clash of the Controllers:

Teen gaming tournament, 3-5 p.m., Wednesday, April 10. Show off your gaming prowess for the chance to win prizes and bragging rights. Ages 12-18.

Library After Dark:

Game Night, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 10. Board and card games for all ages.

Bean Art, 11 a.m.-noon, Saturday, April 13. Make a masterpiece out of dried beans. All materials provided.

Learn to Sew, 2-4 p.m., Saturday, April 13, and 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, April 20. Bring your own sewing machine or use one of the library’s. Some fabric and notions are available for you to use. Registration required.

Historical Building

Tour, 4-5 p.m., Saturday, April 13. Enjoy a guided tour of George Latimer Central Library, designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style and completed in 1917.

Family Storytime , 11 a.m.-noon, Saturday, April 20. Storytelling, puppets, songs and other activities.

Craft Circle, 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 24. Bring a project to work on, or start a new one with materials at the library.

The following events are held at the Riverview Library, 1 E. George St.

Musical concert for all ages, 1-3 p.m., Saturday, April 6. Son de Cuerdas performs music from North and South America. A meal will follow. Free.

West Side Writers, 2-3 p.m. each Wednesday. Participants of all skill levels bring in pieces of written work, offer each other feedback, and discuss the craft of writing.

Teen Wednesdays, 3:305:30 p.m. each Wednesday. Games, snacks, art and more for ages 12-18.

Thompson Park Activity Center

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 651-403-8300.

Russell Schmidt: A Musical Journey Through the Decades!, 1-2 p.m., Wednesday, April 17. $10. Dessert is included. Register by April 10.

Watercolor Painting Introduction , 1-3 p.m. each Monday in April. $85. Supplies may be purchased from the instructor at class for $40. Register by Mar. 28.

British History, 1:303:30 p.m., Tuesday, April

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

Family Storytime, 10:3011:30 a.m. each Friday. Songs, stories, fingerplays, puppets and more.

Riverview Book Club , 6-7 p.m., Monday, April 8. The title is “The Quarry

9.  Register by April 4. $8.

Caregiver Support Group , 2-3:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 10.

Rev Up for EVs Class, 9:30-11 a.m., Thursday, April 11. Learn all about electric vehicles. $5.

Spring Showers Spring Hike ,1:30-2:45 p.m., Tuesday, April 16. Look for the first sights of spring. $10.

How to Save Money and Still Get Good Care, 10 a.m.-noon, Tuesday, April 23. Gain insights on navigating long-term care challenges, protecting assets, and ensuring quality care while following simple Medicaid rules. $5.

Storyteller workshop, 10:30 a.m.-noon, April 24-25. A two-day work-

Girls” by Jess Lourey.

Pokémon Party , 3-5 p.m., Tuesday, April 9. Create your own Poke Ball, design original cards and buttons and more. Ages 7-11.

Free legal clinic

shop designed to help you refine your storytelling skills. $10.

Men’s Topics & Toast, 9-10 a.m., Monday, April 29. Discuss topics pertinent to men ages 55 and older and enjoy buttered toast and toppings. $10 annually.

It’s Fun to Volunteer in Dakota County, 1011 a.m., Tuesday, April 30. Discover the many opportunities available in Dakota County.

Four Hour Driver Safety Course , noon4 p.m., April 4, 18 and May 2. Pre-registration is required. Call 888234-1294 or visit www. driverdiscountprogram. com. $24.

Beautiful Laundrette, 625 Stryker Ave., St. Paul, hosts a free legal clinic every month in partnership with Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services and Mitchell-Hamline Law School. Upcoming dates are 1-4 p.m., Friday, March 29 and April 26.

Augustana Lutheran

1400 Robert St. S. West St. Paul 651-457-3373

augustana.com

B eth Jacob Congregation

1 179 Victoria C u rve

M endota Heights 651-452-2226 beth-jacob.org

Cherokee Park United

3 71 Baker St W., St. Paul 651-227-4275

c herokeepark u nited.org

Community Christ

1 10 Crusader Ave W West St . Paul 651-451-6123 c credeemer.org

Crown of Life Lutheran 115 Crusader Avenue W. West St. Paul 651-451-3832 colwsp.org

Faith United Methodist 1530 Oakdale Ave. West St. Paul 651-457-5686 faithumcmn.com

Holy Family Maronite 1960 Lexington Ave. S. Mendota Heights 651-291-1116

HolyFamilyEvents.org

La Puerta Abierta UMC 690 Livingston Ave. St. Paul 651-558-1896

M izpah River Ministries 1 530 Oakdale Ave. West St. Paul 6 51 - 399-5783

O ur Lady of Guadalupe 4 01 Concord St ., St. Paul 6 51 - 228-0506

w ww.olg catholic.org

Restoration Hope Church 121 Butler Ave. W. (Heritage Middle School) West St. Paul, 612-254-480 restorationhopechurch.com

Riverview Baptist

14 Moreland Ave. E. West St. Paul 651-457-3831 riverviewbaptist.net

Salem Lutheran

1 1 Bernard St ., West St Paul

6 51 - 457-6661

w ww.salemluth.org

S pirit of Hope Catholic 2 035

6 51-760-8353

w ww.spiritofhopemn.org

S

Episcopal

6 51 - 455-9449

St. Elizabeth Orthodox 125 Congress St E St. Paul 651 - 424-0814 seocc.org

St. George Antiochian Orthodox 1250 Oakdale Ave. West St. Paul 651-457-0854

www.saintgeorgechurch.org

S t. Matthew Catholic

4 90 Hall Avenue St. Paul 6 51 - 224-9793

w ww.st-matts.org

St. James Lutheran 460 Annapolis St. W. West St. Paul 651-457-9232

www.saintjameslutheran.com

St. Joseph’s Catholic 1 154 Seminole Ave West St Paul 6 51-457-2781

w ww.churchofstjoseph.org

S t. Paul’s United M ethodist

700 Wesley Lane Mendota Heights 651-452-5683

stpaulsmn. org

S t. Paul Mennonite F ellowship

3 71 Baker St. W S t. Paul 6 51-291-0647

w ww.saintpaul

m ennonite.org

St. Stephen’s Lutheran

1575 Charlton St. West St. Paul 651-457-6541

w ww.ststephenswsp.org

Neighbors, Inc.

Dawn Wambeke President & CEO

I am happy to have this monthly opportunity to write to you from Neighbors, Inc. This month I am using the space to share three important and timely updates: our new strategic plan, a key new staff person, and new funding to fuel our growth this year. I know that many of you are Neighbors’ shoppers, volunteers, and/ or donors, so I’m excited to share our good news.

First of all, we entered the year under the guidance of a new three-year strategic plan. Created at the end of 2023 with the help of many stakeholders, I consider this

“everyone’s plan.” It represents our collective hopes and dreams. Key strategic initiatives include expanding and integrating programming, growing and diversifying resources for current and future programs, increasing participation and investment through greater community awareness, and fostering a collaborative, supportive and mission-driven culture.

I’m delighted to announce that in the last few weeks we have hired Jesse Osvold as director of programs. Jesse comes to us with significant experience in higher education and workforce develop-

P ostscript

Rod Stewart hair

“I like your hair!” a woman at the party said.

This is always nice to hear. My hair is my least endearing feature, primarily because there is not much of it.

But since my husband, Peter, started cutting it, I worry a lot less.

“How does my hair look?”

I ask as I head out the door. Peter always pretends to take this question very seriously. (He should, as my hairdresser.) He scrutinizes the top of my head for a long moment, asks me to turn all

Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com

the way around then reaches over and tousles something on the top.

“Perfect!” he says, and I choose to believe him.

ment. He is a nearly lifelong resident of Dakota County and is passionate about leading this initiative to benefit his own community. Regarding our programrelated strategic plan initiatives, we are excited to share that we are exploring the opportunity to greatly grow our Clothing Closet Thrift Store. Over the next year or so, we will be considering the opportunity of moving the Thrift Store to a second larger location, while continuing to offer a free smaller clothing closet on site at our current Grand Avenue location. This will allow us to begin offering furniture and expand our household items and clothing. In addition, we aim to greatly improve the ease of making donations such as a drive-up/drop off option. Increased revenue will allow us to offer even more free clothing/furniture for those in need and will fuel other Neighbors programs.

Our Hunger Relief pro-

“My husband cuts it,” I told the woman at the party. “He cuts his own hair, too!”

“Ooh! Isn’t that hard?”

“He’s been doing it since he was 17, when the local barber wouldn’t give him the haircut he wanted.”

This is true. Peter started cutting his hair when the barber threatened to give him a buzz cut – because that was the only kind of haircut he gave. Peter got up from the barber chair, walked out and cut it himself. I like that story. Peter has always known what he wants and has always figured he could learn new things.

“Don’t tell people I cut my own hair,” Peter told me on the walk home.

“Why not?”

gramming has experienced an unprecedented nearly 400% increase in service since 2019. Our plans include expanding our onsite food shelf services, broadening our culturally specific foods and expanding community delivery. Neighbors is committed to partnering with Second Harvest Heartland to support their goal to cut hunger in half by 2030. As part of our efforts, Neighbors will focus on strong integration with our Hunger Relief programming and our Financial Empowerment Center to help lift community members out of poverty.

Neighbors’ Financial Empowerment Center is expanding and growing. Helping to make this possible is a new Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development grant, which will support these growth initiatives. For the first time, we’ll provide career coaching along with our financial services, as the

“They’ll think I’m strange.”

“You’re married to me! I think they may have already formed an opinion.”

Peter granted this was true. As it happens, I was feeling particularly pleased with my hair that evening because Peter had given me a haircut just that morning. Usually, my haircuts are his idea.

“Your hair could use a trim,” he’ll announce in a way that makes it clear I am looking pretty scruffy. So I put on a raincoat and raise my office chair as high as it will go, and he gets out his sharp scissors that make a satisfying “Snick! Snick! Snick!” noise. In less than five minutes he’s finished. He doesn’t have much to work with, after all.

two areas are closely connected. According to Jesse, “Financial education doesn’t end with getting a job, credit scores or home buying. Finances affect your whole life. I’m excited to see Neighbors take this on, and I’m excited to be part of it. Finances are a never completely understood system, but an ongoing, necessary, and complex conversation.”

This grant couldn’t have come at a better time. Multiple community partners came alongside us during the planning process, and I appreciate them all. Goals include further developing partnerships with businesses, educational institutions and the public sector. Neighbors is committed to continuing to build our relationships and partnerships in the community to ensure we provide the most comprehensive services possible for the communities we are honored to serve.

We are more committed

But this time, getting a haircut was my idea. I’d just watched an interview with Rod Stewart, the iconic rock star. He is 79 years old and has just released a jazz album. He’s also a keen builder of model trains. But I was more interested in his hair than the jazz or the trains. His hair looked great. I wondered how a man approaching 80 managed to have such ineffable style, and I decided it was, in large part, because he wasn’t too worried about being tidy. Rod Stewart has the untidiest hair you’re likely to find on an octogenarian (outside a long-term senior care facility), and I decided he was my new role model. His music is good but his hair is terrific.

than ever to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging and justice efforts. Neighbors will be forming a task force to help move this critical work forward. Initial steps include hiring more bilingual staff and increasing our culturally relevant food and programming.

I’ll close by sharing our new mission statement, “Neighbors helping neighbors build stability to increase opportunity and wellbeing.” This emphasizes the exceptional volunteer base and strong community network that has embraced the agency for the past 51 years.

I thank all of you who are stepping into 2024 alongside us. Thanks for joining us in our vision “to be a trusted, valued neighbor in advancing the well-being of our community.” For more information, visit www.neighborsmn.org or contact me, Dawn Wambeke, at dawn@ neighborsmn.org or 651272-1135.

“I want hair like Rod Stewart!” I announced, after watching the interview, and Peter got out his noisy little scissors and set to work.

I’m not saying I look like Rod Stewart. I don’t. He has a lot more hair and a lot more experience looking unkempt. But I woke up this morning and looked at myself in the mirror. I left the comb on the shelf and ran my fingers through my hair and made it stand a little more on end than usual.

“How do you like your haircut?” my hairstylist asked.

“I love it,” I told him. “I look just like Rod Stewart!”

“You do,” he said.

And I chose to believe him. Till next time.

Community

Do we really need county libraries anymore?

Dakota County recently completed construction in South St. Paul of our newest county library. As the most accessible, inclusive and energy-efficient library in the county’s 175-year history, Kaposia Library opened at 7th and Marie to considerable interest and acclaim, attracting a record-setting number of attendees for its grand opening in February.

Amid all this fanfare, however, some question whether libraries are a relic of days gone by. In a world saturated with information and technology, with virtually limitless data retrieval at one’s fingertips, are public libraries really relevant and necessary anymore?

Based on library utilization trends here, the answer to this question is a resounding yes.

Usage at Dakota County libraries is off the charts, with the highest per capita usage of any metro county. In fact, more than 4,080,000 materials were checked out by 1,340,000 users last year alone. Events attracted an additional 58,371 attend-

ees. Another 14,121 people reserved study and conference rooms. And Dakota County libraries provided $1,880,000 in value to local small businesses through training, research tools, technology and meeting spaces, according to an independent business group.

This growing demand likely explains why feedback on Dakota County’s most recent resident survey shows that libraries top the list of valued county services, with a vast majority of respondents rating several services provided at the library as “essential.”

New library is designed for the present and the future - Our county libraries have evolved with the times.

Dakota County’s new Kaposia Library provides onsite services that go beyond traditional offerings, with several additional practical services that focus on community needs.

On top of traditional books, magazines and other materials, offerings at the Kaposia Library include, employment resources with information about jobs, skills, literacy and careers; access to computers and the internet; small business/ economic development resources and services; classes, events and meeting spaces; and Fix-It clinics where skilled volunteers assist residents in repairing household items.

This is all in addition to our talented and experienced county library staff, who curate collections, offer expert guidance in navigating the vast sea of information and foster critical thinking and information literacy – a skill set crucial in today’s datadriven society.

We must also remember that the physical presence of libraries embodies accessibility and inclusivity, accommodating those of all abilities and those unable

to afford personal devices or internet subscriptions. The location of the Kaposia Library, in particular, which is mere steps away from South St. Paul’s Middle School, South St. Paul High School and Central Square Community Center, makes it uniquely accessible and available to serve residents of all ages.

The next chapter: Wentworth Library in West St. Paul - Looking ahead, the next in line for a refresh in our Dakota County library system is the Wentworth Library in West St. Paul. In addition to addressing aging infrastructure, like fixing old pipes where leaks are progressing beyond basic repairs, considerable public feedback will be sought in 2024 to ensure that the updated Wentworth Library addresses community needs when it is remodeled in 2025. I will share in this column upcoming opportunities for input.

Looking Back: 90 years ago this month

On April 23, 1934, notorious gangster John Dillinger and two accomplices

used the Rock Island Swing Bridge in Inver Grove to escape police during a highspeed chase that started in Hastings. By one newspaper account, Dillinger was so far ahead of his pursuers that he actually stopped to pay the bridge’s 10-cent toll. Dillinger was atop the FBI’s Most Wanted list at the time and was recognized by the toll-taker.

Soon after eluding police, the gangsters carjacked a larger, speedier 1934 Ford V8 Deluxe from Roy and Sybil Francis of South St. Paul, who were out for a drive with their infant son, Robert. By all accounts, the kidnapped Francis family (relatives of current South St. Paul Mayor Jimmy Francis) was treated well by the gangsters as they traveled through West St. Paul and Mendota Heights. When little Robert Francis worried his mother by tugging at Dillinger’s gun, the gangster tried to ease Sybil’s fears, saying, “Don’t worry lady, we like kids.” The outlaws then bought the family a soda pop when they stopped for gas, before dropping Roy, Sybil and Robert off unharmed in Mendota.

Joe Atkins represents District 2 on the Dakota County Board, which includes South St. Paul, West St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights. Elected Chair of the Board in 2024, he welcomes feedback. To share comments, concerns or questions, email him at Joe. Atkins@co.dakota.mn.us or call 651-438-4430.

Our Lady of Peace offers Home Health Care & Hospice services that provide comprehensive support to your loved ones. We are here to walk alongside you and your family on this journey and offer physical,

Joe Atkins Dakota County Commissioner

Discovering St. Paul’s very own slot canyon

Tim Spitzack Editor

Whenresidents rattle off the geographical amenities of Minnesota, you’ll hear them mention our 10,000 lakes, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Lake Superior and the Mississippi River. You might even hear some talk about caves, but rarely, if ever, will anyone say canyons. That’s because we don’t have them, at least that’s what I thought until I read about a slot canyon in Crosby Farm Regional Park in St. Paul. Intrigued, I had to see it for myself.

A slot canyon is a long, narrow channel or drainageway with sheer rock walls

made of sandstone or other sedimentary rock. They’re common in Utah, Arizona and other areas of the Southwest that get little rainfall. I’ve hiked through some in that region, and they are stunning to see. Their depthto-width ratios range from 10:1 to nearly 100:1, and some can measure less than 3 feet across at the top and drop more than 100 feet to the canyon floor.

It turns out we have other canyons, too, including the mile-long Kadunce Canyon on the North Shore, north of Grand Marais. Perhaps I’ve been living under a rock.

The bluffs in St. Paul are well known for their many caves, but not canyons. Nonetheless, if you’re will-

ing to walk about one mile from the west entrance parking lot at Crosby Farm, near the marina, you can witness St. Paul’s very own slot canyon for yourself.

The park surrounds two lakes – Crosby Lake and Upper Lake – and has nearly 7 miles of trails that weave through the heavily wooded flood plain of the Mississippi. You can find the canyon by following the trail along the bluff on the north side of the lakes. It’s paved until just past where the two lakes meet, then it becomes a narrow dirt path that is prone to flooding in the springtime. Here, you’ll find a wonderful slice of wilderness. Looking to the south, all that is visible are the shimmering lakes

and tangled forestland. Were it not for the din of traffic zooming along Shepard Road on top of the bluff, it would be easy to get lost in a daydream of experiencing the land before a sprawling city grew around it.

I hiked to the canyon in late February, so it was simple to spot. It may not be as easy to find when the trees are thick with foliage. From the trail you can see the narrow opening of the canyon and one must hike over a slight incline paved with slippery stones to reach it. At its narrowest point, the canyon is just three feet wide and over 30 feet high. Along the walls are initials inscribed by young lovers and others wanting to mark their

At its narrowest point, St. Paul’s slot canyon

place in time. Erosion will eventually erase their marks, leaving a clean slate for the next generation. The canyon widens to a large bowl some 20 feet wide and at least twice as high. A trickle of water runs off the bluff and sparkles against the north canyon wall as it makes its way below. All around one can see the colorful strata of

the limestone and the many curves and crevices carved out by the passage of time. Is the canyon as impressive as those in the southwest. No, not by a long shot, but it’s still interesting to see and is worth the short hike. Plus, it gives us one more boast of the many wonderful geographical amenities we have in our state.