St. Paul Voice Dec 2019 by St. Paul Publishing Co.

The St. Paul

STA seeks state title Page 4

Page 10

Volume 53 | Number 12

Southview Animal Hospital relocates to West St. Paul Amy Johnson Staff Writer

Urban Explorer

Your Community News & Information Source

HOLIDAY EVENT GUIDE

Celebrations of the Season

December 2019

Estrada named West Sider of the Year Amy Johnson Staff Writer

r. Mike and Sherry Foster, owners of the Southview Animal Hospital, recently made the short move from their cramped quarters at 32 W. Mendota Rd. in Inver Grove Heights to their new, more spacious clinic at 2000 Robert St. in West St. Paul. The fully renovated 13,500 square-foot space, which formerly housed the Old Country Buffet, features 13 exam rooms and more parking than the old location. Its “fear-free” design aims to reduce animal anxiety by having separate reception areas, exam rooms and kennel areas for canines and felines. There is also a fenced-in outdoor walking area that can be used to calm anxieties and get some fresh air while waiting for an appointment or test results. While the hospital’s services will stay the same, it will now be able to accommodate a higher volume of patients. The hospital provides a host of services, some of which include exotic pet medicine and surgery, nutritional counseling, dental cleaning and extraction, ultrasound services and more. The full list of services can be found at www.southviewanimalhospital.com. Established in 1971 by Dr. Milton Bauer, the hospital was purchased by the Fosters in 2001 from Dr. John and Esther Newman. Since then, Southview Animal / Page 3

Enrique Estrada

The European Christmas Market takes place Dec. 6-22 at Union Depot.

ooking for something to do over the holiday season? Look no further. Our annual holiday event guide offers a wide variety of festive activities just minutes from your home.

Hub for the Holidays, Dec. 6-22 Union Depot in Lowertown, 214 4th St. E., kicks off the festivities with its annual holiday tree lighting and movie night at 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6. Guests will enjoy a live music performance in the Waiting Room inside Union Depot. The tree lighting begins at 6:30 p.m. on the North Plaza with fireworks, and the movie “Elf ” will show

at 7 p.m., followed by “The Polar Express.” This year’s tree is provided by the Matykiewicz family, longtime Hub for the Holidays attendees. Nancy Matykiewicz offered her family’s 45-foot-tall Colorado blue spruce, which had grown too big to maintain, for the occasion. This was her family’s holiday tree for nearly 30 years. Nancy’s son, Ray, gave his mom the evergreen tree in 1990 when it was only two feet tall. When Ray later served in Iraq, the family decorated the tree with yellow ribbon and lights until he returned home safely. Holiday Event Guide / Page 8

Enrique Estrada / Page 3

‘Classic Nutcracker’ returns to St. Paul A behind-the-scenes look at the iconic production Amy Johnson Staff Writer

hile Clara is the true star of Ballet Minnesota’s annual “Classic Nutcracker,” it’s the mice— played by dancers age four to six who scurry onstage for all of 40 seconds—who steal the show. “Every single year the au-

dience erupts with applause for them because they’re just so adorable,” said Andrew Rist, who with his wife Cheryl, owns the company, Ballet Minnesota, and school, the Classical Ballet Academy, each based in St. Paul. The couple supplies dancers for the production—the company’s most well-attended—and features them in main roles. In addition, each of their 170 students

are given a part as well. Rist loves seeing his students in new roles and helping them strengthen their skills. It helps keep the show fresh year after year. “That’s where the excitement comes in,” said Rist. Students range from age four to 18 and start training for the “Nutcracker” in September. The rehearsals are long and comprehensive, and the school’s production space is filled to the brim

he West Side Community Organization (WSCO) has named Enrique “Cha-Cho” Estrada as the 2019 West Sider of the Year. The annual award, given since the 1970s, recognizes an individual who contributes to the community and upholds West Side values, said Monica Bravo, WSCO’s executive director. For the past two-and-a-half years, Estrada, a community engagement specialist for the St. Paul Police Department, has worked hard to forge trusting relationships between the Latino community and police department. “Some immigrants are nervous about contacting the police so I am their go-to person,” said the West Side native. Estrada is best known for his role as a leader for youth in at-risk situations. He previously helped underprivileged youth through his “Out of Corrections” program. As a national trainer in violence and gang

with props. “It’s a mammoth undertaking,” said Rist. For those new to the story, Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet is set on a fantastical Christmas Eve night. The adventure begins with a young girl, Clara, and her mischievous brother, Fritz. Together they host a Christmas party with their family, to which Clara’s godfather, Drosselmeyer, arrives ‘Classic Nutcracker’ / Page 7

B usiness

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Saint Paul Almanac founder is passing the torch Tara Guy Contributor

n our detached electronic age, when many relationships spark, live then die on cold little glass screens, Kimberly Nightingale has warmed the hearts of many around St. Paul’s “literary campfire,” the Saint Paul Almanac. First lit in 2005 and joyously tended to by her devoted community collaborators ever since, the Almanac’s fire glows with Nightingale’s vibrant vision of intimate human connectivity and her recognition of our common need for it. As its founder and longtime executive director, Nightingale’s deep affection for humanity, her passion to honor diverse views and voices, and her yearning to build community has profoundly shaped the production and content of the Almanac. Now she is stepping aside. Her leadership will conclude at the end of the year when Nightingale passes the torch to her successor, Pamela Fletcher Bush, a longtime colleague at the

Almanac. In the final Almanac of her tenure (Volume 12, “Resistance and Resilience,” released this past September) Nightingale wrote, “Two years ago I knew the Almanac was ready to thrive without me. It had reached adulthood.” On the selection of Fletcher Bush, Nightingale said, “It is a real honor to have Pamela Fletcher Bush succeed me. I have witnessed time and time again how she embraces our organizational culture of inclusion and democracy. I cannot imagine a better leader to carry forward the momentum blossoming within our community.” Fletcher Bush, a professor of English and director of the writing program at the University of St. Catherine, was selected after an intensive, two-year search to identify Nightingale’s successor. During her 20-year career at St. Catherine’s (while also holding positions at Carleton College, Hamline University, and the University of Minnesota) Fletcher Bush worked closely with the Saint Paul Almanac in

many capacities, including teaching, writing, editing and serving as a Board member. Over the past two years, Almanac leadership hosted multiple listening sessions with dozens of artists, stakeholders and other constituents to affirm a common vision for the Almanac’s future and identify qualities they would seek in a new director. Once the finalists were named, the same community members were invited back to offer input on the candidates. “This thoughtful and vigorous process led to an intentional and effective interview process that required the candidate to both understand SPA and to exhibit their capacity to lead such a complex organization,” said Fletcher Bush. Following her appointment in September, she said, “I’m ecstatic that Saint Paul Almanac has chosen me to be its next executive director. I joke with Kimberly that while she has small feet and I have large feet, she’s leaving me with giant shoes to fill.” Asked to comment on

Pamela Fletcher Bush with founder Kimberly Nightingale. their similarities and differences, Fletcher Bush said, “She’s a dreamer who not only has the great capacity for imagining but she also can bring her many dreams

to fruition. Just as she does, I get things done by collaborating, cooperating and creating opportunities to help the community flourish. We’re both hopeful and

tenacious. Yet I’m less effusive, more reserved, so I’ll have to allow myself to dream more.” Indeed, the two seem to be kindred spirits, with a

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B usiness love of diverse communities, collaboration and passion for social justice. During a recent visit with both, Nightingale explained her personal philosophy, which helped shape the creation of the Saint Paul Almanac. Quite simply, she seeks to create a world where people of all walks love and embrace their community and are beloved of the community in return. “We have to believe in, trust and love each other,” she said. “We can’t do that unless we know each other.” Nodding in agreement, Fletcher Bush added, “We should really be looking at our cities to ask how much we care and love our own people who live here. If you’re not taking care of your own community, or if you’re not feeling beloved, then there can be all kinds of consequences. When you’re

Your community news and information source disconnected from your neighbor, ‘othering’ happens.” Othering—viewing a group of people as intrinsically different from and alien to oneself—is antithetical to both women. They agree that the solution to such a complex matter is quite simple: storytelling. “That’s how we build the tissue around our bones and muscles, the ligaments that hold us together,” said Nightingale. “We share our stories.” The Saint Paul Almanac is a charming, multiplepersonality hybrid of a publication that has carved out its own unique space in an otherwise profit-driven publishing world. For its devoted audience, the annually produced book has many practical uses: a one-year calendar, a diary for journaling, a personal datebook, a literary jour-

‘If I found myself exiled to that mythical island where I was allowed only one book, I would take this copy of the Saint Paul Almanac – first for its beauteous and colorful design, second for its wondrous works made of words, and third for the community that created, chose, and found ways to carry this wonder to you, dear reader. The Saint Paul Almanac is beautiful and true; reading it makes me less lonely in the world, gives me hope, and soothes my jangled nerves.’ Minnesota Poet Laureate Joyce Sutphen nal, a photo album, a local art, culture and attractions promoter, and a reminder of important historical St. Paul events. But the book transcends those prosaic benefits. The essence of the Saint Paul Almanac has always been the spiritual, emotional and human component embodied in every story selected for inclusion; the lived experi-

ences of St. Paul’s vastly disparate denizens. This unique element is evident not only in the diverse content, but also in the actual production process, which involves 20 or more area residents that act as a panel of “community editors.” Hailing from all walks of life, ages, ethnicities, faith traditions and orientations, the panel shifts in member-

Enrique Estrada in coffee and ice cream, but also serves Mexican and American food. Owner Pompeyo Sanchez showcases live folk music Tuesday nights, hosts the West Side Farmers’ Market in his parking lot and stays connected with his neighbors. A native of Mexico, he owns a coffee farm there. Sanchez chose to open Icy Cup on the West Side because of the area’s ethnic diversity. The shop is open seasonally from April 1 to Oct. 31. “This is the first year we’ve nominated a West Side business,” said Bravo. Icy Cup was nominated through the board, but they plan to bring this award to a public vote in the future.

wheels producing videos and podcasts from all around the city, they rely heavily on grants, endowments and individual contributions. This obstacle has also proved true for other communities that have tried to emulate St. Paul’s template in their own cities, including Albuquerque, New Mexico, and King County, near Seattle, Wash. Without consistent funding, the publications lose momentum and eventually fail. When asked to reflect upon the success of the Saint Paul Almanac, Nightingale modestly attributes it to the people of St. Paul who readily embraced her vision of a community rooted in love and care of the neighbor. “From the start, the people of St. Paul recognized somewhere deep in their hearts and souls that we’re all in this together…and that’s what we’re all about.”

Southview Animal from page 1

from page 1

prevention, he has received three national awards from the Boys and Girls Club of America. With a background in criminal justice and community crime prevention, he has presented on gangs, community policing, community mobilization and the Latino culture at local colleges and around the state. He is also the founder of the annual “Cops Take a Kid Fishing Day.” Estrada currently serves on the St. Paul Police Chief ’s Community Advisory Committee. He and his wife, Michelle, live on the West Side. Icy Cup, 63 George St. W., was named the 2019 West Side Business of the Year. The shop specializes

ship and makeup from year to year. Community editors review 300 to 400 literary pieces, as well as visual art, such as paintings, sketches, cartoons and photography. Each editorial panel includes 7 or 8 youth members, as part of the Almanac’s commitment to educate and excite students on civic and community involvement. The Almanac staff trains the amateur editors on the business of writing, copyediting and publishing, and the editors work with the submitting writers to improve their pieces, hoping to introduce fresh voices into the literary world. As with any non-profit, funding is an eternal challenge. Though the business does well from its annual book sales and production services provided by its unique “Storymobile,” a solar-powered studio-on-

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Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m., and urgent care, 8 p.m.-midnight; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and urgent care, 5 p.m.-midnight. The hospital will host a grand opening celebration for clients and community members 3-7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14.

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The St. Paul Voice is published monthly and delivered to 16,500 homes and businesses in St. Paul’s West Side, West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, Lilydale & Sunfish Lake.

School Choice Directory Academia Cesar Chavez 1801 Lacrosse Ave., St. Paul 651-778-2940 www.cesarchavezschool.com

Saint Agnes School 530 Lafond Ave., St. Paul 651-925-8803 www.saintagnesschool.org Athletics Calendar: http://trimetro. org/public/genie/5/school/2/

St. Croix Lutheran Academy 1200 Oakdale Ave., West St. Paul 651-455-1521 www.stcroixlutheran.org St. Paul City School PreK-8 260 Edmund Ave., St. Paul 651-225-9177 www.stpaulcityschool.org

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1643 So. Robert St., West St. Paul, MN 55118 651-457-1177 | info@stpaulpublishing.com | www.stpaulpublishing.com The St. Paul Voice assumes no responsibility for the opinions expressed by contributors and for the validity of claims or items reported. Copyright St. Paul Voice 2019. All rights reserved in compliance of Federal Copyright Act of 1978.

St. Paul Voice - December 2019 - Page 3

Str

S ports Cadets on the precipice of a state football championship

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s we go to press, Head Coach Dan O’Brien and the St. Thomas Academy (STA) football team are preparing to play Chaska in the Class 5A championship game at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 30. It is the culmination of a remarkable and serendipitous autumn for O’Brien, his team and his family. When O’Brien was offered the head coaching job in the spring of 2018, the Cadets were coming off a 6-5 season that had ended with a 42-7 loss to Apple Valley in the sectional championship game. Although he approached his first season with some trepidation, it didn’t take long for O’Brien and his squad to achieve the sort of success expected of the STA football program. His 2018 team sailed through the regular season compiling an 8-0 record and outscoring their opponents 326-39. In the post-season,

STA defeated Apple Valley, Hastings, Tartan and Bemidji to advance to the Prep Bowl to take on Owatonna in the Class 5A championship game. The dream ended there as the Huskies defended their 2017 state title by defeating the Cadets 14-3. “We had 38 seniors on that squad and it was their dedication and leadership that made the season so special,” said O’Brien. “It was disappointing that we couldn’t send them off with a win.” STA opened the 2019 campaign with seven victories that extended the school’s regular season winning streak to 15. They traveled to Chaska to play their final regular season tilt, ran into a buzz saw and were defeated by the Hawks, 20-0. “Chaska is a very good team, but we didn’t play very well and I’ll take the blame for that,” said O’Brien. “The loss did present an opportunity for both our kids and the coaching staff to step back, rethink some things

and refocus.” The rejuvenated Cadets opened the postseason with a 49-0 shutout over Park and a 28-7 romp over Apple Valley in the Section 3AAAAA title game. Their unjust reward for advancing to the state tournament was to face #1 Owatonna—riding a 29game winning streak—in the quarterfinals at Woodbury High School on November 9. The Cadets exacted some revenge for the 14-3 loss in the 2018 Prep Bowl with a convincing 21-0 victory. “Our defense, especially our interior linemen, played their best game of the season,” said O’Brien. “And our special teams came up with a big play that got us going.” With the game scoreless late in the second quarter, that big special teams play came in the form of a blocked punt that came to rest on the Husky sevenyard line. Danny McFadden’s three-yard scamper enabled the Cadets to go to the locker room with a 7-0 lead at halftime.

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Junior running back Danny McFadden has rushed for 1,471 yards and 23 touchdowns for the Cadets. The Cadets received the second half kickoff and, with the ball on their own 20yard line, it was the offense’s turn to make a contribution. The Cadets embarked

on an 80-yard touchdown drive that ate up over nine minutes of the third quarter and increased the STA lead to 14-0. “There is nothing more

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S ports Twice in the fourth quarter the Cadets stuffed the Huskies short of the line of gain on fourth down. STA running back Love Adebayo sealed the deal with his second touchdown to make the final score 21-0. Next up for the Cadets was a Class 5A semi-final game with Elk River on November 16. The Elks had defeated Moorhead in a wild quarter-final matchup 58-55 to earn a trip to U.S. Bank Stadium to face the Cadets. “Elk River featured a very sophisticated running attack that generated 360 yards and 44 points per game during the regular season,” said O’Brien the day before the game. “They led the state in the number of rushing attempts of 30 yards or more and their passing game was virtually non-existent.” St. Thomas’ offense is also predicated to a large extent on its running game. Based on those facts, the head coach suggested that the game would likely be determined by two criteria: the team who wins the “battle upfront” and the team who wins the “turnover ratio.” The Cadets scored the only touchdown of the first quarter on a 32-yard burst from Danny McFadden. Elk River answered with a touchdown early in the second quarter to tie the game 8-8, but touchdowns by McFadden and Adebajo gave the Cadets a 24-8 halftime lead. The Cadets put on a run-

Your community news and information source ning game clinic in the second half. McFadden’s third touchdown covered 48 yards. Joe Deyak scored on a 67-yard romp as well as a 39-yard pass from quarterback Baker Redding. Caleb Zweifel completed the scoring with an 85-yard run to pay dirt. The final score was 53-16. In this game, it was the Cadets who rushed for 360 yards while limiting the Elks to just 192. As he has done all season, McFadden, a junior, led the Cadet attack, with 130 yards. For the season, he has rushed for 1,471 yards on 201 carries and scored 23 touchdowns. He also set a school record with a 95-yard touchdown run earlier in the season. Led by defensive linemen Garrison Solliday and Oscar Berg, linebackers Ben Reppenhagen and Jamie Smith and safety Steve Betts, the Cadets won the battle in the trenches by a large margin. And the lone turnover was a fumble by the Elks which the Cadets turned into six points. “I don’t think the final score was indicative of the strength of the two teams,” said O’Brien. “I’ve been in games when things start going the wrong way and it gets out of hand. We were the benefactors of that tonight.” It is rather ironic that the Cadets were given an opportunity to gain some revenge against Owatonna in the state quarterfinals and now the team that stands between

them and their first state championship since 1975 is Chaska, who dealt the Cadets their only loss of the season. Both teams carry an 11-1 record into the championship game. Chaska, which eliminated Coon Rapids in the semi-finals by a score of 34-14, has a balanced attack and will present a stiff challenge. In a close game, the Hawks’ place kicker, Nic Snuggerud, could prove to be the difference. He connected on two field goals against Coon Rapids, including a 52-yarder. “Obviously we respect

Chaska. They are a very good, well-coached team,” said O’Brien. “But we are excited and energized about getting another shot at them.” Another positive occurrence for sports fans in our distribution area this fall has been the emergence of the Minnesota Golden Gopher football team as a legitimate contender in the Big Ten Conference. A moving and courageous byproduct of the Gopher mania that has touched the entire country is the story of Casey O’Brien. O’Brien, the son of STA

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the Week. On October 26, he made his home debut against Maryland and held on three more point-after attempts. At 2:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30, the Gophers host Wisconsin in a game that will likely determine the Big Ten Western Division champion. At 4 p.m., a few miles down the road at U.S. Bank Stadium, the Cadets will face Chaska in the Prep Bowl’s 5A championship game. Our best wishes to Casey and the Gophers - and to Dan and the Cadets.

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Coach Dan O’Brien, is the young man who is a walk-on placeholder for the Gophers. Casey was initially diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (a rare form of bone cancer) at age 13 and has beaten the disease four times. He delivered the keynote speech on behalf of Big Ten players at the Big Ten Kickoff Luncheon on July 19, 2019 in Chicago. On October 19, he made his collegiate debut for the Gophers at Rutgers. He held three times on pointafter attempts and, for his efforts, was named the Big Ten Special Teams Player of

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St. Paul Voice - December 2019 - Page 5

N ews Briefs Student notes University of Kansas graduate: Kaitlyn Krueger, bachelor of science in journalism in strategic communication. University of WisconsinMadison dean’s list: Max Buell, Rachel Farber, Max Lerman, William Maher, Eve Meltzer, Juliet Dupont, Maxwell Gantman, Nicholas Goblisch, Josie Hall, Emmett Sexton, Lillian Smith, Ryan Tracy, Julia Wang, Jake Wendt.

Tacos and Tunes Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 401 Concord St., St. Paul, is offering tacos and music in its social hall noon-7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30. Tacos are $3 each or $7 for two tacos, rice and beans. Soda, beer and margaritas will also be available for sale. For more information, call 651-2280506.

Art show Visit the Realife Co-op at 170 E. Emerson Ave., West St. Paul, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7. to view the work of local artists in various mediums. Featured artists are James Harvieux, wood, Erick Wiger, threedimension media, Robert Qualls, jewelry, and Jeanne Wiger, watercolors and prints. Each will be present and have artwork for sale.

Faith UMC Faith United Methodist Church, 1530 Oakdale Ave., West St. Paul, is hosting Breakfast with Santa, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 14. The event includes

Your community news and information source a full breakfast and photos with Santa. Cost is a cash donation or donation of nonperishable food items for the Neighbors, Inc. food shelf. The congregation will also host a blood drive 1-7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 4. The Christmas Eve worship service will be held at 4 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 24. For more information, call 651-457-5686 or visit www. faithumcmn.com.

resources provided at Neighbors Express daily. Neighbors Express is located on the lower level of the Neighbors building at 222 Grand Ave. W., South St. Paul. In the first two weeks of operation, Neighbors Express helped feed more than 1,300 families in northern Dakota County. If you or someone you know is experiencing hunger and would like more information about the food distribution programs at Neighbors, call 651-455-5000.

Wentworth Library The following events are held at Wentworth Library, 199 Wentworth Ave. E., West St. Paul. Legends and Folklore of Winter, 6-7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3. Hear about the darker side of winter with bizarre tales and stories of cannibalistic spirits, Krampus the anti-Santa Claus, werewolves, witches, people being buried alive and other not-so-cheery holiday traditions. Digitize It! 3D Scanning Workshop for Teens, 2-4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14. Explore techniques for scanning 3D objects into software that can be used for 3D printing or other digital uses. See how to use the Xbox 360 Kinect, a digital single-lens reflex camera or cellphone to capture the images. Registration required. Ages 13-18. Blackout Poetry, 5:307:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 18. Write your own poetry by knowing what words to black out and what words to leave on a page from a book. Registration required. Ages 11-17. Sensory-Friendly Saturdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m.,

Mary Kracht of West St. Paul earned second place and a $500 prize at the inaugural Speaking Proudly oratory contest. The event for high school girls was sponsored by Metro Republican Women and held Oct. 26 at the State Capitol. Kracht, a senior at Chesterton Academy of the Twin Cities in Hopkins, addressed the issue of abortion in her speech entitled “The Homicide That’s Killing Our Nation.” Kracht has studied speech and debate for four years and enjoys mock trials and debating legal issues. She received the award from State Senator Karin Housley (District 39, Republican). Saturday, Dec. 21. Explore books, music and play in a setting that welcomes children who have difficulty in large groups, are on the autism spectrum or are sensitive to sensory overload. One registration required per family; an adult must accompany each registered child. Siblings welcome. Ages three to eight. All Dakota County Library locations will be closed Dec. 6, 24 and 25. Libraries will close at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 31.

HHW collection Ramsey County’s household hazardous waste collection site at 5 Empire Dr., St. Paul, is open year-

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Page 6 - St. Paul Voice - December 2019

round. Drop-off is free for residents of Ramsey and Dakota counties with a photo I.D. For hours of operation and more information, call 651-633-3279 or visit www. co.ramsey.mn.us/ph.

English classes South Suburban Adult Basic Education offers free classes at West Heights Area Learning Center, 150 Marie Ave. E., West St. Paul, to help people age 17 and older learn English and improve literacy skills. To register or receive more information, call 651- 306-3632.

Free symphony concert at St. Matthew’s

Saint Paul Civic Symphony is presenting its “The Past as Present” concert at 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 8 at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 510 Hall Ave., St. Paul. Admission is free. For more information, visit www. spcsmusic.org.

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Neighbors Inc. is now offering Neighbors Express, de sinceridad” 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 Desde 1927 p.m., Monday through Peterson Friday.Ken It’s B. a new food disOwner-Director tribution program designed toJohnson-Peterson fill the gap for families experiencing insecuCasa Funeria food y Cremación rity. In 612 addition to monthly So. Smith Ave. food shelf visits, individuals 651-222-3220 and families may access the www.johnsonpeterson.com

WSCO Scorecard hearing The St. Paul Planning Commission currently has a 30-day comment period and hearing scheduled concerning the adoption of the Equitable Development Scorecard as an amendment to the West Side Community Plan, as offered by the West Side Community Organization (WSCO). This scorecard has been crafted over the last two years to evaluate development proposals in District 3. The scorecard is a tool for WSCO members to assess how well a project fulfills the policies and principles of the WSCO Community Plan, an adopted addendum to the City’s 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The resulting “score” can then be used by WSCO in its recommendation to the City when it reviews zoning applications for development proposals in District 3. The St. Paul Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the adoption of the scorecard to the District Council West Side Community 10 Year Plan. The hearing will be held at 8:30 a.m., Friday, Dec. 6 in Room 40 of City Hall, 15 W. Kellogg Blvd. All comments concerning the amendment will be heard at the hearing, and this will be the end of the 30-day comment period. Comments submitted in writing should be addressed to Michael Wade at michael. wade@ci.stpaul.mn.us or fax to 651-266-6549. Call Michael at 651-266-6619 with any questions. To view or print the WSCO scorecard, visit https://www.wsco.org/ equitable_development_ scorecard.

Essay contest for students The Optimist Club of West. St. Paul is kicking off its tenth annual 2019-2020 Optimist Essay Contest. All local students are encour-

aged to consider the question: “Is optimism the key to achieving the dreams you iMagine?” Students must be under the age of 19 as of Oct. 1, 2019 and not be enrolled as a degree-seeking student of a post-secondary institution. The submission date is Jan. 13, 2020. The top three winners will receive medallions and cash prizes. Depending on the number of entries, the Optimist Club may award additional prizes. For the last two years, the club has presented the authors of the top six essays with cash prizes or gift cards. The club’s highestscoring essay will be sent to the Dakotas–Manitoba– Minnesota Optimist district level where the winner will receive a $2,500 scholarship. For more information, contact Cheryl Bergstrom at ckbergstrom@hotmail.com.

Puppet show St. Paul Public Library’s Youth Services is hosting a cookie-themed puppet show at George Latimer Central Library, 90 W. 4th St. Public performances of “The Gingerbread Man, A.K.A. Super-Cookie!” follow the story of a gingerbread man who refuses to be eaten. Performances are held 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 7; 10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 12; 6:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 16; 10 a.m., Friday, Dec. 27. For more information, call 651-266-7034 or visit www.sppl.org.

WordWright honors Four students representing St. Croix Lutheran Academy in West St. Paul recently won honors in this year’s WordWright Challenge, a competition for American high school students requiring close reading and analysis of various kinds of prose and poetry. In the first meet, held in October, eighth grader SeEun Sohn competed as a ninth grader and placed among the 58 highest-scoring ninth-graders in America. Freshman Nora Birkholz, sophomore Ryan Burkart and senior Jordan Selchow all achieved outstanding results as well. More than 70,000 high school students from 48 states entered the meet. The students will participate in three more meets in the coming months, and medals and certificates will be awarded in June to those who achieved the most, and who improved the most, in the course of the year.

A rts & Culture

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‘Classic Nutcraker’ from page 1 late. He presents her with a mysterious gift: a nutcracker doll. When Clara falls asleep that night, the audience is transported into her dream of the Rat King fighting the Nutcracker and his army of toy soldiers. The Nutcracker Prince escorts Clara through an enchanted snow-covered forest and on to his Kingdom of the Sweets, where Clara accepts the throne from the Sugar Plum Fairy. “People enjoy the production,” said Rist. He said they see new attendees every year as well as devotees who have seen it for 15 years. At 68, Rist has enjoyed a long career in ballet. He began dancing at age 18, very late according to ballet’s standards. He earned a degree in chemical engineering and although he liked the science, he was always interested in movement and felt a pull toward ballet. After meeting his wife in Seattle, they moved around to several dance companies before finally deciding to establish their own ballet studio and company. “We were dancing with the Minnesota Dance Theatre,” said Rist. “They went through a transition, so we opened our own studio in St. Paul in Lowertown.” They ran the Classical Ballet Academy for two years, then opened the professional company, Ballet Minnesota. Today, they produce not only the classics, but also

contemporary and other forms of dance. While they train mostly in classical ballet, Rist believes the strong foundation that ballet presents makes someone better in other forms, like jazz. “You have more control of your body,” he said. The couple also showcases the Minnesota Dance Festival each spring, where they bring in companies from around the Twin Cities to perform with them. Rist said it’s a fun atmosphere, and several different dance styles are represented. Many students at the Classical Ballet Academy find success after graduation, either getting scholarships to highend programs at universities or finding roles in dance companies, and Rist delights in watching them continue their dancing careers. Now, with rehearsals for “Nutcracker” in full swing, the school and academy are focused on delivering the audience another showstopper. While their full productions of “Swan Lake” and “Giselle” are bigger, more people attend the Christmas classic. “You walk into the room with all these dancers at all these levels, and their dreams, and their energy— and it just goes right back into you, and you’re ready to go again,” said Rist. Performances are Dec. 13-15 at the O’Shaugnessy auditorium at St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave. Tickets are $18-$46.

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UNION DEPOT

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Enjoy indulgent holiday foods, samples, live music, raffle prizes, and more msmarket.coop

For complete details visit uniondepot.org/holiday St. Paul Voice - December 2019 - Page 7

mississippimarket-20191113-StPaulVoice-3.375x5.indd 1

11/13/19 6:09 PM

H oliday Event Guide

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Continued from page 1

The European Christmas Market will take place Dec. 6-22 on the East Plaza and provide an Old World European ambiance. Based on the open-air markets of Germany, Austria and other countries, the market will feature handmade gifts, such as ornaments, nutcrackers, toys, woolen accessories, jewelry and more, from more than 40 vendors. European-inspired food and drink will include spiced mulled wine. There will be live music, dancers, an appearance from Santa and his reindeer, a visit from Krampus, and free goat and dogsled rides. Hours are 4-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. The North Pole Express will chug into town on Friday, Dec. 6, offering families the opportunity to ride the train with Santa, see his village, watch his elves work and return to Union Depot for refreshments. Rides will take place Dec. 6-8 and 1215. To order tickets, visit https://261.com/npe/. The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will arrive at 6:45 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 10. After a welcome by

Union Depot’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony begins at 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6. Ramsey County Commissioner Rafael Ortega, there will be a free concert from 7-7:30 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring a monetary or heart-healthy food donation for the local food shelf, Merrick Community Services. VIP tickets are $10 and provide access to a preferred viewing area nearest the stage. To purchase tickets, visit www.cptrain2019.

eventbrite.com/. Holiday Bake Sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14. A wide array of the Twin Cities’ top bakeries and confection makers will gather for the 7th Annual Holiday Bake Sale in the Waiting Room. There will be live cooking and baking demonstrations, and guests can choose baked goods, confections and gifts from

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more than 30 vendors. The event is free, but guests are encouraged to bring a monetary or heart-healthy food donation for the local food shelf. The Northstar Holiday Train will roll in Saturday, Dec. 21. Guests will have the chance to take a free roundtrip train ride, starting at the Big Lake station and riding to Union Depot where they

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can visit the European Market from 4-6 p.m. For more information, visit www. metrotransit.org/northstarholiday-train.

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and the City of St. Paul. Activities include the Wells Fargo WinterSkate rink, Securian Financial’s SuperSlide and the Greatest Day Parade honoring the 40th anniversary of the U.S. Men’s Olympic Ice Hockey Team. Concessions will be open for all events. The Wells Fargo WinterSkate is free and open daily, with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s. Hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayThursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. On Christmas Eve the rink will be open 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and on New Year’s Eve from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. On Presidents’ Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day the rink will be open from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Skate rentals are $5. Free skating lessons are offered by professional skating instructors from noon-1 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 14; Jan. 11, 18 and 25; and Feb 1. Broomball is also available. The Securian Financial SuperSlide is a snow slide that begins at the second story patio of the Securian Financial Club. Riders will plunge 40 feet in an innertube, and glide 130 feet on

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H oliday Event Guide

the snow. Days and times vary. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for children 12 and under. Children are offered unlimited rides for the one-hour slot purchased. To purchase tickets, visit www. saintsbaseball.com, or call 651-644-6659. The Greatest Day event will take place Saturday, Feb. 22. It will feature a hockey exhibition tournament comprised of 12 youth teams, each representing a country that took part in the 1980 Men’s Olympic Ice Hockey competition. The parade will begin at 2 p.m. near the Herb Brooks Statue in Rice Park, travel through Downtown and finish at CHS Field. It will showcase members of the 1980 team, Minnesota Olympians, including the 2018 U.S. Women’s Ice Hockey Gold Medal Team, former Minnesota North Stars and other NHL players, Fighting Saints, Golden Gophers, and youth teams from across the state. Once inside the ballpark, an Olympic-style

ceremony will take place. Afterwards, the 1980 team and the former Olympians will sign autographs inside the Securian Financial Club. The event is free and open to the public.

Historic Holidays A Victorian Christmas, Nov. 29, 30, Dec.1, 5, 6. Take a guided tour through the Alexander Ramsey House, 265 Exchange St. S., St. Paul, for an 1875 Victorian Christmas. Discover how the Ramsey family and their friends, neighbors and servants prepared for and celebrated the season. Times vary. $12 for adults. $10 for college students, seniors and veterans and active military. $8 for aged five to 17. Free for ages four and under. Order tickets at www.mnhs.org. Christmas Traditions, 1-3:30 p.m., Dec. 1; 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Dec. 4-6. Take a guided tour through the James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul, and learn about the Hill family’s Christmas traditions includ-

ing Mrs. Hill’s seven-course meal. $8-$12. Order tickets at www.mnhs.org. Christmas Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Nov. 30Dec. 28. Take a self-guided tour of the James J. Hill House. Program includes hands-on activity for children. $6-$10. “Sherlock Holmes & the Case of the Christmas Carol,” 7:30-9:45 p.m., Dec. 6-7, 14-15, 20-21, at the James J. Hill House. A thought-provoking twist on Charles Dickens’ classic story. Recommended for ages 10 and up. $28-36. Order tickets at www.mnhs.org. Don Irwin Holiday Concert, 7-9 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 12 and Friday, Dec. 13. Visit the James J. Hill House to enjoy pianist Don Irwin as he plays classic holiday tunes and special requests. $28.50. To order tickets, call Marian at 651-489-5771.

Concerts and special events Katie McMahon’s Celtic Christmas, 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6. St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave., will host the original voice of Riverdance, Katie McMahon, in the O’Shaughnessy Auditorium. The family-friendly performance will include traditional Christmas carols, stories and Irish dance. McMahon will be joined

onstage by her band and the Corda Mor Irish Dancers. $28. To order tickets, visit www.theoshaughnessy.com or call 651-690-6700. The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory annual Holiday Flower Show is presented Dec. 7-Jan. 12 at the Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul. For more information, call 651487-8201 or visit www.comozooconservatory.org. The River Heights Chorale will present its winter concert 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7 at Salem Lutheran Church, 11 W. Bernard St., West St. Paul. For more information, visit www.riverheightschorale.org. The “Classic Nutcracker,” Dec. 11-15 at O’Shaughnessy Auditorium at St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave. Ballet Minnesota will present its 32nd annual performance of the holiday classic. $21-$46. “A Nutcracker Story,” 1 and 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 21 at the O’Shaughnessy Auditorium at St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave., St. Paul. St. Paul Ballet will present a fantastical adventure to the magical land of dancing snow, colorful characters and swirling flowers. $37. To order tickets, call 651-690-6700 or visit www.theoshaughnessy.com. Lowertown SantaCon, 7 p.m. until bar close, Satur-

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a giant gift basket full of gift cards. The breakfast will be held at the Dakota Lodge, 1200 Stassen Ln., West St. Paul. There will also be a bake sale. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for ages four to 12 and free for ages three and under. SPV-MammaDec2019V-Eng.qxp_Layou

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day, Dec. 14. Participants of the 12th annual pub crawl will have a jolly time imbibing holiday spirits at various Lowertown bars. Dress as your favorite holiday character and join the fun. For the complete schedule, visit http:// lowertownsantacon.info. It’s A Wonderful Life - A Live Radio Play, Dec. 5-24 at the Saint Paul Hotel, 350 Market St., St. Paul. Enjoy a 3-course meal and live performance of playwright Joe Landry’s acclaimed take on the classic 1946 Frank Capra film, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” $79-$89. For more information, call 651-228-3860 or visit www.saintpaulhotel.com. Winter Lights Tours, 7-9 p.m., Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, 14, 21. Ride in a deluxe motorcoach for a two-hour guided tour of the biggest and brightest displays of holiday cheer. Tour sells out fast. To order tickets, call Down in History Tours at 651-292-1220 or visit www. wabashastreetcaves.com. Breakfast with Santa, 9 a.m.-noon, Sunday, Dec. 1. The West St. Paul Kiwanis Club is offering a full breakfast, free photo with Santa, pay-to-play games, free crafts and the opportunity to win

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A rts & Culture

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The Urban Explorer Exploring our regional amenities Ginny Contreras Sawyer Contributor

St. Paul Brewing

efore moving back to my home state of Minnesota in the summer of 2014, I lived in Prague, Czech Republic for seven years. Besides the usual worries of relocating to a new place— like finding housing, a job, and new friends—there was another concern on my mind: where was I ever going to find beer as tasty as what the Czechs brewed up? Little did I know that in my absence, a craft beer scene had taken hold in the Twin Cities and was slowly leaving a trail of breweries and taprooms across the state. Now a resident of St. Paul for almost four years, I’ve never had to stray far from home for a good ale. From Black Stack to Bad Weather to Bang, I’ve tallied at least 16 active breweries in my hoppy explorations, yet

one, quite literally, stands head and shoulders above all the rest: St. Paul Brewing. St. Paul Brewing, 688 Minnehaha Ave., E., St. Paul, opened in 2007 under the name Saint Paul’s Flat Earth at a location south of Highland Park. In 2010, owner John Warner set his sights on the historic Hamm’s Brewing complex perched high above the deep, wooded ravine of Swede Hollow. After completing massive renovations, the company finally made the move to the East Side in 2014, and just this past year rebranded as Saint Paul Brewing. “Come for the history— stay for the beer” is one of the brewery’s slogans, and I couldn’t agree more. Swede Hollow itself is one of the oldest settlements in the city, and add to that a brew-

ery that dates to 1865, and you’ve got a lot of history on your hands. The taproom is in the heart of the complex, located in a courtyard. As I approached the entrance, surrounded by colossal relics of fading brick on three sides, the sights and sounds of the city faded away; only a ceiling of late afternoon sky peeked through. It felt as if the buildings swallowed me whole and transported me to 1850s St. Paul. And then there’s the beer. On my visit they had all their flagship beers on tap—Railroad Island APA, Hidden Passage IPA, Golden Horse Blonde Ale, and Crooks’ Haven Rye Porter—as well as quite a few seasonal offerings. A cheerful, long-bearded bartender served me up a porter, and we made small talk. “Everyone’s always talking about Surly, but this place is great,” I said. He laughed. “Whenever my friends want me to meet them at Surly, I just don’t go.” Of course, there is a lot to thank Surly for. In 2011, with his vision of creating a “destination brewery,” owner

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Lowertown Indoor/Outdoor Market Saturdays, 9 am-1pm 290 5th St. E., St. Paul

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A rts & Culture Omar Ansari got the Surly Bill passed in the Minnesota Legislature, which paved the way for other breweries to expand and sell pints onsite. Without them, the Saint Paul Brewing taproom wouldn’t exist. And Surly is a wonderful place, too— the large bonfire that greets you upon arrival, the lovely landscaped beer garden and enticing hipster merch for sale in the gift store—but it’s a little too manicured

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for my taste. And much too crowded. If any place deserves the label of destination brewery, it’s St. Paul Brewing. From interior to exterior, you can tell that Warner paid careful attention to maintaining the historic character during renovations. He somehow managed to modernize yet pay homage to St. Paul’s industrial past. The only comparison I can think to draw is to the artistic grungy feel

of Eastside Berlin. (In this comparison, Surly would be the more Disney-esque restored Dresden.) As usual, Minneapolis gets all the hype, but St. Paul is where it’s really at. Of the many seating choices, one unique area is the outdoor beer garden. Crumbling stone walls enclose a long rectangular area with picnic benches, round tables, and log stumps surrounding various fire pits.

Vines and the tips of saplings poke through barred windows making it feel like an ancient archeological ruin reclaimed from the encroaching jungle. The walls possess some basic tag graffiti (probably left by delinquent teens during the complex’s abandoned years), which further enhances the authentic charm of the space. There are also some colorful artistic creations, and one wall even has a complete mural of a

moose head and big, black cursive lettering spelling out Swede Hollow. As I sat and took a sip of my porter, I savored the smoky sweet taste that slowly took over my taste buds. It reminded me of the first beer I ever loved—a dark, Czech lager called Kozel Černý. Afternoon faded into evening. The fires were lit, and the glow of the zig zag of strings of outdoor lights mingled with the rising

smoke. The patio began to fill with groups of friends, families and dogs to form a lively, impromptu community, and I couldn’t have been happier. There are certain places in the world where history pulsates, where, for a moment, past and present seem to converge. This is one of those places. Oh, and did I mention the beer?

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Christmas Eve Masses Tuesday, Dec. 24 Vigil Mass, 5:30 p.m.

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JANUARY 13 Get more for your tuition dollar! Not only will a Saint Paul College education cost you less, but it will also give you more. Tuition is affordable – even compared with other local community and technical colleges.

Grace Lutheran Church

149 8th Ave. S., South St. Paul 651-451-1035 Advent Wednesdays Dec. 4, 11, 18 - 7:00 p.m. Children’s Service Sunday, Dec. 22 9:00 a.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 10:00 p.m. Christmas Day Celebration 10:00 a.m. New Year’s Eve 6:00 p.m.

With over 100 degree, diploma, and certificate programs, Saint Paul College offers a path to achieving your career goals. Sign up for your campus tour today!

saintpaul.edu/StartHere Saint Paul College named one of America’s Top 150 community colleges by the Aspen Institute!

Saint Paul College, A member of Minnesota State

Document available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by contacting 651.846.1547 or AccessResources@saintpaul.edu. Saint Paul College is an Equal Opportunity employer and educator.

St. Paul Voice - December 2019 - Page 11

S ample St. Paul

Fitzgerald Theater

10 E. Exchange St. St. Paul 651-290-1200 https://thefitzgerald theater.com

Lorie Line Christmas concert, 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6. $55-$60. Mason Jennings will perform at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7. $30-$40. The band Low will present Low’s Christmas at 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13. $35. Hot Tuna acoustic 50 th anniversary concert, 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14. $39.50-$59.50. A Christmas Celebration with The Steeles, 7 p.m., Friday Dec. 20 and Saturday, Dec. 21. $30.50-$40.50.

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

“First Avenue Stories of Minnesota’s Mainroom,” through May 3, 2020. Since 1970, First Avenue & 7th St. Entry have been at the heart of the Minnesota music scene. This exhibit celebrates the musicians, employees and regulars who have called First Avenue their rock ‘n’ roll home. Museum tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students, and $6 for children ages five to 17. Free on Tuesdays, 3-8 p.m.

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Thanksgiving Break: Brickmania First Ave., noon-4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 1. View a scale model of First Avenue built entirely from Legos, and help build Lego portraits of legendary First Avenue performers. $6-$12.

Landmark Center Old Fashioned Holiday Bazaar. $5.

VJ Night, 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3. A VJ night with Jake Rudh of Transmission Music.

Santa’s Workshop, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15. Take a free photo with Santa, enjoy games, dress up as an elf and make a gift for a loved one.

Our Home: Native Minnesota, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7. A new permanent exhibit showcasing Native American stories—and the continuity of cultural practices, teachings, values and political agency. Music, art and games will be offered. Relief in the Bulge, 7-9 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 10. Dr. Greg Fontenot, author of “Loss and Redemption at St. Vith,” will discuss the defense and disputed aspects of intelligence and final victory.

History Theatre

10 E. Tenth St., St. Paul 651-292-4323 www.historytheatre.com

“Beyond the Rainbow,” through Dec. 22. This musical explores the life, music and movies of Grand Rapids, Minn. native Judy Garland. $30$65.

Landmark Center

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

Holiday Bazaar, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Dec. 5-7. Explore the 41 st Annual

Ballet, noon-1 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 10. Enjoy demonstrations and excerpts from the Ballet Co. Laboratory’s company repertoire.

Courtroom Concerts, noon-1 p.m. Delphia Cello Quartet will perform Thursday, Dec. 12, and “Songs of the Season: Carols by Minnesota Composers” is presented Thursday, Dec. 19. Landmark LIVE, 7-10 p.m., Friday, Dec. 20. Carrie Elkin will perform with guest John Hermanson of Storyhill. $20-$25.

Ordway Center 345 Washington St. St. Paul 651-224-4222 www.ordway.org

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society

This photo of Ojibwe women at Leech Lake, circa 1906, is part of the “Our Home: Native Minnesota” exhibit at the Minnesota History Center. 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 21 and 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 22. $5-$50. Christmas with Cantus, 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 20. The vocal ensemble Cantus will re-imagine three stories of the season: “The Little Matchstick Girl,” “The Nutcracker” and “Christmas or the Good Fairy.” $23-$43.

Palace Theatre

“Six the Musical,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 29, and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30. $40.50$81.50. Join Rita Moreno for a night of songs and stories at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3. $48-$161. Julie Albers will play Haydn’s “First Cello Concerto” at 8 p.m., Dec. 6-7. $12-$50. Enjoy Bach’s “Brandenburg Concertos” at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14 and Handel’s “Messiah” at

17 W. 7th Place, St. Paul 612-338-8388 www.palacestpaul.com

Kim Petras, 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30. $33.50. The Jayhawks, 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 21. $33$60.

Park Square Theatre

20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul 651-291-7005

www.parksquaretheatre.org

“Pride and Prejudice,” through Dec. 22. Enjoy Kate Hamill’s adaptation of the Jane Austen classic. $16-$37.

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

“Body Worlds RX,” through Jan. 5, 2020. Explore the human body exhibition that has attracted 47 million people around the world. Illumination, 5-10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 29-Dec. 28. Experience the museum as it is transformed by colored lights and largescale interactive art installations.

RiverCentre

175 West Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul 651-265-4800 www.rivercentre.org

Minnesota Hmong New Year, 8 a.m., Nov. 30-Dec. 1. Celebrate the 41 st Annual Hmong New Year with Hmong arts, food and culture.

Ice Fishing and Winter Sports Show, Dec. 6-8. Explore more than 190 exhibits with products and services for the fishing and winter sports enthusiast. $5-$20. Kids five and under free.

Xcel Center

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

Disney on Ice will present “Worlds of Enchantment” Dec. 5-8. Jingle Ball, 7:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 9. 101.3 KDWB will present its annual holiday concert, featuring a star-studded lineup with artists like Katy Perry, 5 Seconds of Summer and more. $36$301. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 28. $36.50$76.50.

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{ VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES } Neighborhood House in St. Paul is looking for volunteers to assist in the food shelf, with tutoring, youth services and other areas. For more information, contact Vanessa Edwards at 651-789-2524 or vedwards@neighb.org. Neighbors, Inc., a social service agency serving northern Dakota County, has a number of volunteer opportunities to assist local residents, including work with the food shelf and thrift store. For more information, contact Jenny at 651-2721133 or volunteer@neighborsmn.org. DARTS, a nonprofit organization serving seniors in Dakota County, offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for all ages. To volunteer, contact Angela Liedke at 651-234-2254, angela.liedke@darts1. org or visit www.darts1.org/volunteer. Dakota County offers volunteer positions in community corrections, environmental resources, the Historical Society, library, parks, public health, the sheriff’s office and social services. For more information, call 651-438-4435 or visit www. co.dakota.mn.us/Government/Jobs/Volunteering/Pages/default.aspx Dodge Nature Center, a nonprofit environmental education center in West St. Paul, is seeking volunteers age 16 and over to assist with community events, land management and environmental education. For more information, call 651-455-4531 or visit www.dodgenaturecenter.org.

Augustana Lutheran 1400 Robert St. S. West St. Paul 651-457-3373 www.augustana.com Beth Jacob Congregation 1179 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights 651-452-2226 www.beth-jacob.org Cherokee Park United 371 Baker St. W. St. Paul 651-227-4275 www.cherokeepark united.org Community Christ the Redeemer 110 Crusader Ave. W. West St. Paul 651-451-6123 www.ccredeemer.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for men, especially Latinos, to mentor boys ages 7-12 in St. Paul. Volunteers are asked to commit just a few hours a month. To volunteer, call 651-789-2400 or visit www. bigstwincities.org. CommonBond Communities seeks volunteers to assist children and teens with their academic skills, homework and discovering post-secondary school and career opportunities. For more information, visit commonbond.org/volunteer or contact volunteerservices@commonbond.org or 651-290-6226. Cerenity Senior Care-Humboldt is seeking volunteers to transport residents to activities. It also needs Spanish-speaking volunteers to assist with one-onone visits. Volunteers may work weekly, monthly or at a special event. Located on the West Side, the Cerenity Residence at 514 Humboldt provides assisted living, memory care and transitional care, and the Cerenity Care Center at 512 Humboldt provides nursing care. To volunteer, contact 651-220-1789, HumboldtVolunteer@bhshealth.org, or visit www. cerenityseniorcare.org/volunteer. St. Paul Public Schools is seeking volunteer tutors to assist students one-on-one or in small groups. Flexible day, evening or weekend hours. To volunteer, contact Jyni Koschak at 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@ voamn.org.

Crown of Life Lutheran Church & School 115 Crusader Avenue W. West St. Paul 651-451-3832 www.colwsp.org Faith United Methodist 1530 Oakdale Ave. West St. Paul 651-457-5686 www.faithumcmn.com Holy Family Maronite 1960 Lexington Ave. S. Mendota Heights 651-291-1116 www.HolyFamily Events.org La Puerta Abierta UMC 690 Livingston Ave. St. Paul 651-558-1896

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon needs volunteers to assist the families of deployed military members with household chores, grocery shopping, transportation to medical appointments, etc. To volunteer or for more details, contact yellowribbon@wspmn.gov or call Jan at 651-457-3541. Volunteers of America is looking for volunteers age 55 and over to assist children who are struggling with homework and reading. Time commitment ranges from three to 12 hours a week. To volunteer or receive more information, contact Jyni Koschak at 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@voamn. org. Minnesota Reading, Minnesota Math Corps is seeking full- and part-time tutors to serve in St. Paul public schools during the school year. Volunteers earn a biweekly living allowance of $526 (full-time) and an education award of up to $4,200 to help pay for education. Full-time tutors may also receive health insurance. For more information or to apply, visit visit www.MinnesotaReadingCorps.org, www. MinnesotaMathCorps.org, or contact 866859-2825. Rebuilding Together Twin Cities is looking for Safe at Home volunteers to provide home safety and accessibility modifications for low-income older adult or disabled homeowners in St. Paul and

Dakota County. For more information, call 651-776-4273, email volunteerservices@rebuildingtogether-twincities.org. or visit http://rebuildingtogether-twincities.org. St. Joseph Hospital in St. Paul is looking for volunteers to escort patients as they discharge from the hospital. Flexible shifts, free parking and meal vouchers offered. Contact Michele Sahar at 651-232-3756 or MLSahar@healtheast.org. Ramsey County Community Human Services has volunteer opportunities for people age 16 and older. For more information, contact 651-266-4090 or humanservicesvolunteer@co.ramsey.mn.us. Science Museum of Minnesota is seeking volunteers to assist with visitor services and exhibits. Apply at smm.org/volunteer or call 651-221-9453. YMCA in West St. Paul - The YMCA offers several volunteer opportunities, including youth sports coaches, member services and Kids Stuff staff. For more information, call 651-457-0048 or visit www.ymcamn.org/weststpaul.

Our Lady of Guadalupe 401 Concord St. St. Paul 651-228-0506 www.olgcatholic.org

St. Anne’s Episcopal 2035 Charlton Rd. Sunfish Lake 651-455-9449 www.saintannesmn.org

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

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

Salem Lutheran 11 Bernard St. West St. Paul 651-457-6661 www.salemluth.org

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

St. Joseph’s Catholic 1154 Seminole Ave. West St. Paul 651-457-2781 www.churchofstjoseph.org

St. Matthew Catholic 490 Hall Avenue St. Paul 651-224-9793 www.st-matts.org

St. Stephen’s Lutheran 1575 Charlton St. West St. Paul 651-457-6541 www.ststephenswsp.org

Spirit of Hope Catholic Community 2035 Charlton Road Sunfish Lake 651-760-8353 www.spiritofhopemn.org

St. Paul’s United Methodist 700 Wesley Lane Mendota Heights 651-452-5683 stpaulsmn.org St. James Lutheran 460 Annapolis St. W. West St. Paul 651-457-9232 www.saintjameslutheran. com

St. Paul Voice - December 2019 - Page 13

C ommunity

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Postscript

Forever Home

“The septic guy can’t find the cover. Call him,” was the message. I’ve been getting a lot of messages like this since I decided to put my 100-plus-year-old farmhouse up for sale. I haven’t lived in the farmhouse for years now—not since I moved out to go to graduate school and become a writer, met Peter, married Peter, and moved on with my life. The farmhouse was where I lived for many years with my first husband, and then, for a while, after our divorce. The farmhouse is where I thought I’d grow old. I planted a lot of trees,

Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com

had a garden and painted every wall, inside and out. I thought there was a strong likelihood I’d die in that house. Now I’ve put it up for sale.

The house has been rented for the last few years. I’ve been getting a reasonable rent for it but being a longdistance landlord is not easy. “Why are they parking their cars on the lawn?” I wonder when I visit. “What’s that stuff piled in the woods?” Gradually the property starts to look less and less well-cared for. It was time. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. I remember Joel, the contractor who did most of the improvements to the house. Joel was a perfectionist and a terrible estimator of his time, so the work ended up being far more beautiful and far more expensive than anyone anticipated. But I can’t say I did much to discourage him.

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ADVENT & CHRISTMAS

And, despite a bad end, the marriage that occurred in that house was not without happiness. Most of my married life was lived in that house. There was a lot of optimism, then a lot of worry, and eventual despair but there were happy moments when I felt secure as if I had found my home forever. Joel asked me one day, “How long do you plan to live in this house?” “Well, my grandmother lived to be 100. Does that help?” “Okay then,” Joel replied. Joel put in the solid wood shelves that used to be filled with my books and treasures from travel. He put in a fireplace with tile running around it. He patched the upstairs floor where a wall was removed with wood he took from the closet, so it was impossible to tell it had been repaired, then found nearly-matching wood to repair the back of the closet— just in case anyone should look, just because that’s how Joel was.

Nothing in the sale price of the house will reflect the bookshelves or the perfectly matched wood. Nothing will reflect the weeks upon weeks I came home from work, changed clothes, and worked until late while listening to the radio as I varnished, so the woodwork would yellow gently with time and match the original wood. So, no, it’s not easy. And, despite a bad end, the marriage that occurred in that house was not without happiness. Most of my married life was lived in that house. There was a lot of optimism, then a lot of worry, and eventual despair but there were happy moments when I felt secure as if I had

program does not have the glitz and glamor of a BranADVENT & CHRISTMAS son music show, and it does not have tourists streaming from across the country to wait in line to see light displays. No, our “show” is much more modest. It con510 Hall Avenue, St. Paul Neighbors, Inc. sists of a warehouse convertADVENT MASS SCHEDULE: DECEMBER 1-24 ed into a winter wonderland, Saturdays at 4:15 p.m. and Sundays at 10:15 a.m. Charlie Thompson complete with some garland, DECEMBER 8 President & CEO a few decorations, a play area Saint Paul Civic Symphony Free Concert, 3 p.m. for the kids and computers DECEMBER 9 for the parents to provide Observance of the Thanksgiving Feast of the never their children’s wish lists. I attended college near season. Immaculate 8 a.m. Branson, Missouri. For Conception, had a chance. As farMass as Bran- The music played is not live. DECEMBER 14 those of you unfamiliar with son was concerned, Christ- Our “stars” are the volunMatthew & Boutique Branson, it is St. located in theRosary/CCW mas was Tea to be celebrated teers who gladly assist. 1 to 4 p.m. southern part of the state daily from November 1 to During the run of our and is known for its countryDECEMBER December15 31. By the time program, we will assist more St. Matthew’s Breakfast with Santa music shows, theme parks December 25 arrived, the than 700 families. We rely and Rosary/CCW Bake Sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m and buffets. The entertain-DECEMBER joy was gone and the sound on the generosity of com15 ment season is divided into of Andy Williams Advent Penance Service, 3 p.m. singing munity members, church two parts. Regular showsDECEMBER filled your24 dreams (or per- partners and businesses who kick off around Easter andMasshaps nightmares). support families in need dur- 4:15 p.m. run through October. Then, 25 During those years DECEMBER - CHRISTMAS DAYand ing the holiday season. And, quite literally overnight, the thea.m. Christmas season perhaps most importantly, Masssince, - 10:15 entire region is For transformed has continued to expand, we will provide children an more information, call 651-227-9793 into a winter wonderland only in Branson or visit usnot at st-matts.org or but ev- opportunity to experience complete with allwww.facebook.com/churchofstmatthew the music, erywhere. There was a time the joy of the season by relights and shopping you can when I would do anything ceiving hope in the form of imagine. Usually there is no to shorten the season so it a toy. snow. It is, after all, southern would last only between Our “Holiday ExtravaMissouri. Thanksgiving and Christ- ganza” is not like what you As a student, I worked mas Day. will find in Branson. But it on “the strip” where most Not anymore. is exactly what the season is of the shows are performed. At Neighbors, the Christ- meant to be about: neighWith each passing year, the mas season formally began bors caring for neighbors. Christmas season seemed to on Oct. 28 with the kickoff From all of us at Neighstart earlier, last longer and of our Holiday Gift Program bors, we wish you a very grow bigger. For nearly two but preparations have been Merry Christmas and a full months, we were inun- going on behind the scenes blessed New Year! dated with the Christmas for many months prior. Our

Church of St. Matthew

Church of St. Matthew 510 Hall Avenue, St. Paul

The Church of Saint Matthew invites you to share in this very holy season and offers the following services and events. We welcome visitors. Your presence and your prayer enrich our community. If you desire information about us, please call the church office at 651-227-9793 or visit us at st-matts.org or www.facebook.com/churchofstmatthew.

ADVENT MASS SCHEDULE: DECEMBER 1-24 Saturdays at 4:15 p.m. and Sundays at 10:15 a.m. DECEMBER 8 Saint Paul Civic Symphony Free Concert 3 p.m. DECEMBER 9 Observance of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception 8 a.m. Mass DECEMBER 14 St. Matthew Rosary/CCW Tea & Boutique 1 to 4 p.m. DECEMBER 15 St. Matthew’s Breakfast with Santa and Rosary/CCW Bake Sale 9 a.m. to 1 p.m DECEMBER 15 Advent Penance Service 3 p.m. DECEMBER 24 Mass - 4:15 p.m. DECEMBER 25 - CHRISTMAS DAY Mass - 10:15 a.m. Page 14 - St. Paul Voice - December 2019

found my home forever. I called the septic guy and told him where to find the cover. I am sure there will be more calls but right now I’m just hoping the house will sell to someone who loves it. I’m hoping one day they’ll notice the handiwork on the bookshelves. Maybe they’ll like the woodwork. Maybe they’ll admire the tiles around the fireplace on a cold winter night. I want someone to fill the old house with books and treasures and happiness and feel as if it is a home they could live in for a very long time—maybe forever—or however long forever lasts. Till next time.

C ommunity

Your community news and information source Nancy Brady President

Food shelves are based on different models. The standardized model uses a box or bag filled with the same items. The client choice model allows an individual to choose their food, like in a grocery store. The newest model, SuperShelf, takes the client choice model to the next level—and Neighborhood House is getting certified to offer it. The SuperShelf model puts the participant’s health and well-being at the forefront. The environment is client-centered and respects individual choice while increasing access to a variety of healthy, culturally appropriate foods. Food categories and displays emphasize fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and cooking ingredients, making the healthiest choice the easiest choice.

An organization can become SuperShelf certified once it has met rigorous criteria addressing these areas. In 2017, we started to model our food markets after the Valley Outreach food shelf in Stillwater. Through a partnership with Lakeview Health Partners called Better Shelf for Better Health, Valley Outreach food shelf underwent a transformation

HANDYMAN

to become the SuperShelf model of today. We found that reorganizing our food categories gives participants more choice in picking items they like and will use. For example, in traditional categories a participant can pick one oil, one taco spice, one jelly, one ketchup and one mustard. If someone has no use for mustard, they get four items instead of five. By combining these items into one category and allowing participants to pick any five of their choosing, their options increase and they can come away with more food. When we decided to become SuperShelf certified this year we were more than halfway there, thanks to our 2017 remodel. The last

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piece of the puzzle was the physical transformation and logistics. We purchased new bins, baskets, signs, banners, and posters—all designed to make shopping quicker, easier and more enjoyable. We renamed and reorganized food categories based on behavioral principles to encourage healthier choices and discourage feelings of food scarcity. By putting sweets at the end of the

shopping line, a shopper arrives with a full cart and is less likely to choose these unhealthy options. By keeping shelves fully stocked and re designing categories to allow more options, shoppers feel a lessened sense of anxiety that food is scarce. Becoming SuperShelf certified is all about restoring dignity to families experiencing food insecurity.

Shopping will feel similar to a grocery store, allowing shoppers to choose foods based on personal preference. Most importantly, shoppers will be able to get more food than before. We hope that families will worry less about food running out, that they’ll increase their intake of healthy foods, and their health and well-being will flourish.

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Thank you, Saint Paul City Council!

Help yourself, Help your friends, Help your neighbors. “Typical household grant averaged $400 last year!”

Nearly all Minnesota households spend a large share of their income on energy cost. For households with limited income, this can be especially stressful. Community Action’s Energy Assistance Program helps thousands of families in Ramsey and Washington counties pay energy bills and improve the efficiency of their homes. Apply Now! Contact us for more info.

• Call (651) 645-6470. • Visit our website at www.caprw.org • Email us at EAP@caprw.org 450 Syndicate St. N, Suite 122, St. Paul, MN 55104 Office Hours: Monday - Friday / 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Your vote to raise the tobacco sales age to 21 will save lives! Nearly all adult smokers started before age 21. If youth don’t start by then, they likely never will. Thank you for your leadership in creating a healthy community.

www.ansrmn.org St. Paul Voice - December 2019 - Page 15

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