St. Paul Voice Mar. 2021 by St. Paul Publishing Co.

The St. Paul Page 12

Volume 55 | Number 3

Your Community News & Information Source

March 2021

Help stock the shelves Minnesota FoodShare drive begins Mar. 1

John O. Anfinson

Thomas Gillespie

The river flows through him

New leadership at Living Well

Anfinson enters his next stage of Mississippi River advocacy

Tim Spitzack Editor

O. Anfinson, who retired John on Jan. 3 as superintendent of

the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA), may be passing the torch of management but his commitment to river advocacy is not drifting away. He is now concentrating on issues near and dear to his heart and looks forward to being unencumbered by the bureaucratic red tape he faced at MNRRA, a unit of the National Park Service that encompasses a 72mile corridor along the Mississippi in the Twin Cities. “Now I’m able to focus on things I’m most passionate about and dive deep into those things,” he said. He will apply his 40-plus years of experience to several boards and commissions, including Friends Anfinson / Page 3

Stock image: Metro Creative Graphics

Tim Spitzack Editor

or the past four decades, the Minnesota FoodShare campaign has helped bring in tons of products to food shelves across the state, including those in our community. As the pandemic lingers on and continues to negatively impact livelihoods, the need for donations is as strong as ever. The Wellstone Center Food Market, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul, served 16,150 individuals last year, a 24% increase over

the previous year. Neighbors, Inc., which runs the food shelf at 222 Grand Ave., South St. Paul, for residents in Northern Dakota County, served more than 6,500 households and distributed nearly 900,000 lbs. of food. While these organizations rely on donations throughout the year, now is when they count the most, as they restock after the holidays and prepare for the busy summer months ahead. The Minnesota FoodShare March campaign, held Mar. 1-April 11, is the FoodShare / Page 2

iving Well Disability Services, a Mendota Heights-based nonprofit that provides services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has a new leader. In mid-February, Thomas Gillespie began duties as president and CEO. He succeeds Rod Carlson, who served as interim president and CEO for the past two years. Gillespie has more than 15 years of management experience in the industry, including executive leadership, operations and group home management. Most recently he was executive director at Duluth Regional Care Center in Duluth, Minn. Prior to that he was chief program officer of Hammer Residences in Wayzata, which serves more than 1,900 people with disabilities. Gillespie became familiar with Living Well through his involvement in Gillespie / Page 5

West Side Boosters celebrate 50th anniversary John E. Ahlstrom Staff Writer

s early as the 1940s, the Neighborhood House—then located on the West Side Flats where Plato Boulevard now roams—sponsored youth athletics. When construction began in 1969 on a new Neighborhood House up the hill on Robie Street, the United Way, then its primary fundraising source,

insisted that another entity take on the responsibility of sponsoring youth athletics. It did not take long for the West Side Boosters to come to the rescue. Today, they are in the midst of celebrating their 50th anniversary. Tony Ruiz, a 1968 graduate of Humboldt High School, was just 20 years old when the Boosters were incorporated in 1970. “Phil Rivitsky, an employee of Neighborhood House

who had been involved in youth athletics, helped organize a meeting to discuss the issue at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church,” Ruiz recalled. “There were about thirty of us at that meeting and before we left we elected officers.” The Boosters elected Jo Jo Ruiz (Tony’s uncle) as their first president. Bob Alizondo was elected vice-president and Ben Quintero (“the most honest man in the room,” said Ruiz with a chuckle) the

secretary-treasurer. Other key personnel who attended that meeting and have made lifetime contributions to the organization included Gilbert de la O, Larry Lucio and Don Luna. “When we played games down on the Flats against teams like Highland and Battle Creek they would show up in fancy uniforms and half of our team would be wearing jeans and tennis shoes,” said de la O. “Coach

Mauer (at Humboldt) always told us that if we dressed like an athlete and looked like an athlete, there’s a good chance we would play like an athlete.” From Day One, the Boosters were determined to purchase safe and quality equipment and provide uniforms that young athletes would be proud to wear when representing their home turf. Of course, none of that is possible without generating revenue.

“We have always been blessed with parents and siblings and friends who were willing to offer their time and their talents,” said de la O. “Concession stands, meat raffles, casino nights, pull tab sites, you name it, we’ve tried it.” The only other form of revenue over the years has been the modest registration fees derived from the young athletes themselves. Boosters / Page 11

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FoodShare from page 1

largest food and fund drive in the state. It brings together community organizations, businesses and faith communities to collect items and money to help stock nearly 300 food shelves statewide. Last year it resulted in more than $21.5 million and 7.4 million pounds of food shelf items. The Wellstone Center Food Market, like most food shelves, accepts more than just food. According to spokesperson Sarah Lennander, their biggest need now is for household items, personal hygiene products, baby diapers (size 5 and 6) and baby wipes. “Although we are grateful for both monetary and food item donations, monetary donations can further your impact,” she said. “With our food sourcing resources and bulk purchasing power, we

are able to purchase more food for less money, so your donation goes further in our hands than at the grocery store.” The pandemic has affected the way people can use a food shelf and make donations. As a safety measure, the Wellstone Center Food Market is closed for in-person shopping. Instead, food and other items are packaged and available for curbside pick-up and delivery. Packages include produce, dairy, deli items, a variety of grains, canned produce, cooking items, prepared meals, snacks, beverages and sweets. Those needing food may visit the center between 10 a.m.-noon or 2-4 p.m., Monday-Friday, then call 651-789-2534. Someone will bring the package outside and place it at the curb. Those needing delivery, or

St. Matthew’s 32nd Annual

DRIVE UP TO GO

who wish to make a donation of food items, should call the same number. Donations can be dropped off curbside at the Wellstone Center Food Market. Call when you arrive, and staff will come unload your car. Monetary donations can be made at www.neighb.org. For more information, call Tanika Fears at 651-7892513. At Neighbors, Inc., inperson shopping has also been suspended during the pandemic. Instead, prepackaged items are available for pick-up and delivery. The packages include boxed and canned food, frozen meat, fresh produce, milk and hygiene products. Participants must place orders in advance then call 651-455-5000 to schedule a time to pick up their food or have it delivered. Deliveries are usually made the day after the order is placed. The packages are placed curbside, with no interaction with the driver. Neighbors Inc., which serves people living in South St. Paul, West St. Paul, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota, Mendota Heights, Lilydale

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St. Matthew’s Social Hall, 510 Hall Ave., St. Paul

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. Publisher & Editor: Tim Spitzack Copy Editor: Leslie Martin Staff Writer: John E. Ahlstrom

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Page 2 - St. Paul Voice - March 2021

Megan DuPont lends a hand at the Neighbors, Inc. food self. and Sunfish Lake, hopes to raise a combined total of 400,000 pounds of food and dollars during this year’s FoodShare campaign. “Minnesota FoodShare is our largest food and fund drive of the year,” said Charlie Thompson, president of Neighbors, Inc. “During the pandemic we have adapted

our food support programs to meet emerging needs. In addition to our food shelf, we have added a food delivery service and a satellite food shelf location. In order to continue these innovative services, we need the support of our community now more than ever.” Monetary donations can

be made online at www. neighborsmn.org/donate. Nonperishable food donations can be placed in the yellow bin outside of the food shelf door at Neighbors (lower level) between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. To find out which items are most needed, call 651-455-5000.

LENTEN WORSHIP SCHEDULE Church of St. Matthew, 510 Hall Ave., St. Paul

The Church of Saint Matthew invites you to join us in this season of Lent and the joyous season of Easter. We welcome you to come celebrate with us the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. If you desire information about us, please visit www.st-matt.org or call 651.224.9793. LENT Weekend Masses are celebrated on Saturdays at 4:15 p.m. Sunday Masses streamed online at 10:15 a.m. on Facebook and YouTube www.facebook.com/churchofstmatthew or youtube.com/stmattswestside Stations of the Cross View anytime on Facebook or YouTube Fridays, February 19-April 2 St. Matthew’s Fabulous Fish Fry Take out only 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Reconciliation Saturday, February 27 - March 6, 13, 20 & 27 After 4:15 p.m. Masses Tuesday, March 30 at 7:00 p.m. & Wednesday, March 31 at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, February 27 First Reconciliation - 10:00 a.m. Chapel Sunday, February 28 & March 28 Communal Penance Service - 2:00 p.m. HOLY WEEK Palm Sunday Services Saturday, March 28, 4:15 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 10:15 a.m. Streamed online Drive-by Palm pick up at 11:30 a.m. Easter Triduum Celebration Holy Thursday, April 1 Mass, 7:00 p.m. In person and streamed online Good Friday, April 2 Stations of the Cross, 12:00 p.m. In person Good Friday Liturgy, 3:00 p.m. In person and streamed online Holy Saturday, April 3 Easter Vigil, 7:00 p.m. In person only Easter Sunday, April 4 Mass of the Resurrection. 10:15 a.m. In person and streamed online

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Anfinson from page 1

of the Mississippi River, Minnesota and National Mississippi River Parkway Commissions, the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center Citizen Advisory Board and the National Parks Conservation Association. Anfinson, who has bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in history from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, began his career in 1980 as historian and cultural resources specialist for the St. Paul District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 2000, he accepted a similar role with MNRRA, based in downtown St. Paul. In 2010, he became chief of resource management, and in 2014 was named park superintendent. During the past four decades, he has seen many changes throughout the corridor. “There has been a real transformation of the river, from being highly industrial,” he said. “From Dayton to Hastings, these cities have turned back to the river in real and physical ways. There are now 90 parks on the river.” That’s a stark contrast to the 1970s when the riverfront was largely dominated

by industry, resulting in an unsightly and polluted landscape in the heart of the Twin Cities. Yet the National Park Service recognized the historic and cultural importance of the corridor and in 1988 enacted legislation to create a unit of the park service to help enhance and protect the river. Since then, water quality has improved, and cities have reclaimed the riverfront for parks, recreation and housing developments. The return of bald eagles to the area is proof that the river is much healthier today. “There are now over 50 nests in the corridor,” said Anfinson. “What an environmental success story.” Much of what MNRAA staff do is provide education. This includes programs such as Big River Journey for the younger generation. “MNRRA is the #2 youth education program in the Midwest region, with 26,000 youth on the river,” said Anfinson. “We’ve just started to tap the recognition as a premier urban national park.” Achieving that recognition has been one of his greatest frustrations. “Our biggest challenge is getting people to know we

exist, and why that matters,” he said. “The vast majority of people don’t know we even exist…. We have to grow into the idea that we are a national park.” One of the most notable achievements during his tenure was the creation of the MNRRA visitor center, located in the lobby of the Science Museum of Minnesota. It opened in 2003 and attracted about 62,000 people the first year—a far cry from the 650,000 who visited the museum. “Forty percent didn’t know we were there,” lamented Anfinson. “They thought we were a guard station.” To improve its image, the visitor center was fully renovated in 2016 and reopened on Aug. 25, the 100th anniversary of the Park Service. “We had 194,000 visitors the first year, and that has settled into an average of 160,000 (annually),” he said. Other projects that have increased the park’s visibility include the renovation of Coldwater Spring nature sanctuary near Minnehaha Falls, and the creation of a visitor center in the building of the former Upper St. Anthony Lock and Dam in Minneapolis. The Army Corps of Engineers closed the lock in 2015 and the Park Service turned its building into a visitor center

{ MEETING DATES } St. Paul City Council meetings are held at 3:30 p.m. each Wednesday (except the fifth Wednesday of the month). For agendas and contact information for city council members, call 651-266-8560 or visit www.stpaul.gov. West St. Paul City Council meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of the month. For agendas and contact information for city council members, call 651-552-4102 or visit www.wspmn.gov. Mendota Heights City Council meetings are generally held at 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month. Some meetings may change to accommodate religious holidays and other events. For agendas, and city council member contact information, call 651-452-1850 or visit www.mendotaheightsmn.gov. ISD 197 School Board meetings are held at 6 p.m. the first and third Monday of the month. For agendas, and contact information for board members, call 651403-7000 or www.isd197.org. St. Paul School Board meetings are held at 6:05 p.m. Dates vary. For agendas, and contact information for board members, call 651-767-8149 or www. spps.org/boe. The West Side Community Organization’s board of directors meets at

6:30 p.m., the fourth Monday of each month. For more information, visit www.wsco.org or call 651-293-1708. The Optimist Club of West St. Paul meets 5-6 p.m., the first and third Wednesday of each month (no meetings in July) at Dunham’s, 173 Lothenbach Ave., West St. Paul. Visitors are welcome. For more information, contact Cheryl Bergstrom at ckbergstrom@hotmail.com or 651-450-7391. The Rotary Club of West St. Paul/ Mendota Heights hosts a weekly meeting at 7:30 a.m. each Wednesday. For more information, visit https://portal. clubrunner.ca/8700. The Kiwanis Club of West St. Paul hosts a weekly meeting at noon the first and third Tuesday at Stremski Insurance Agency, 1560 Livingston Ave., West St. Paul. For more information, visit www. wspkiwanis.org. The Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce, which serves the cities of Eagan, Farmington, Lilydale, Mendota Heights, Mendota, Rosemount, Sunfish Lake and West St. Paul, hosts several meetings for the business community. For more information, visit www.dcrchamber.com or call 651-4529872.

shortly thereafter. In 2019, it attracted 25,000 people, according to Anfinson. The park’s overall visitation increased nearly fourfold from 2015-18, from 112,000 to over 430,000. Craig Hansen, superintendent of Grand Portage National Monument in northern Minnesota, was named acting superintendent of MNRAA and will serve in that role until the Park Service fills the position this spring. Anfinson said the new superintendent’s biggest challenge— and opportunity—will be the creation of the proposed River Learning Center near the Watergate Marina in Crosby Farm Regional Park. The project is a partnership with the City of St. Paul,

Mississippi Park Connection (a nonprofit that raises funds for MNRRA), Great River Passage Conservancy and others. He said they are halfway to raising the $600,000 needed for schematic design and expects to reach the fundraising goal this spring and have the design by the end of the year. If all the pieces fall into place, it could open in 2024 or 2025, he said. The Park Service would relocate its office there from downtown St. Paul, and rangers would lead environmental and educational programs from the center, including boat trips on the river and bike outings on the nearby regional trail. “The River Learning Center at Watergate Marina will become the destination to vis-

it this park,” said Anfinson. The other challenge his successor will face is carrying out one of the Park Service’s main goals for MNRRA: to guide development along the river. This is a large task for a park that relies heavily on public-private partnerships. Anfinson said many cities along the corridor recognize the importance of protecting the river but that others still need more education regarding the long-term value of doing so. Private developers are another story. He said the majority have yet to see the benefit, which inspires him to roll up his sleeves and work harder on spreading the message and providing research that supports the park, the river and the people who enjoy it.

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New Red Cross blood donation center opening soon Tim Spitzack Editor

f you are among the thousands who donate blood at the American Red Cross donation center on Robert Street you’ll need to visit a new location this spring. The Red Cross is moving its donation center from 176 S. Robert St. to its nearby building at 100 S. Robert St., near E. Fillmore. That building is in the final stages of a $2 million renovation to accommodate the donation center, upgrade other uses and consolidate office space. It is expected to open by May 1. The building that formerly housed the donation center will be sold. The renovation includes a new 8,000-square-foot blood donation center with 12 beds for whole blood donations, 15 for platelet and plasma donations, two for

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white blood cell donations, and 10 rooms for health history examinations. The room where platelets are collected will have the most apheresis machines of any Red Cross donation center in the nation. The Red Cross estimates that every two seconds someone in the United States needs to receive blood, and thanks to donations, they get what they need. The nonprofit provides about 40% of the country’s blood supply. The St. Paul donation center annually collects approximately 18,700 platelet and 7,400 whole blood units. The newly renovated building is also home to the third largest Red Cross manufacturing and distribution center in the country. It annually processes more than 686,000 units of blood products, which are shipped MERRIAM PARK

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to more than 100 hospitals in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin, and to about 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country. The facility has more than 300 employees, now with newly renovated workspaces. The Red Cross is conducting a naming rights donation campaign and will recognize donors by naming various rooms of the building in their honor, or on a donor wall, depending upon the level of support. One anonymous person—a cancer patient who received blood products to successfully battle the disease—has already donated $750,000. Ecolab Foundation has also made a significant contribution. All donations will be used by Red Cross Blood Services to fund COVID-19 antibody testing, collection of convalescent plasma, blood test-

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Blood donations will take place at 100 S. Robert St. in St. Paul. ing and research, and other initiatives. Spokesperson Sue Thesenga said donations have remained strong throughout the pandemic, particularly since the Red Cross instituted new safety measures. Donors must now make an appointment and have their temperature checked upon entering the building. Face masks are required for all staff and donors, and beds

and equipment are disinfected before each donation. The biggest need is for convalescent plasma, which is used to help hospital patients, including those with COVID-19. People who themselves have recovered from COVID-19 are encouraged to donate because they may have antibodies in their plasma that could help another patient beat

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Gillespie from page 1

the industry’s trade organization, he said in a recent interview. “They (Living Well) have a strong reputation for being able to say ‘yes’ to services when other providers can’t,” said Gillespie Living Well serves a high percentage of individuals with intensive medical needs and does not turn anyone away due to their condition. Gillespie’s desire to serve people with disabilities was sparked by his mother, who was a special education paraprofessional. Witnessing her compassion influenced him to pursue a career in the field. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of MinnesotaDuluth, and an MBA from Concordia University-St. Paul. He currently serves on

the board of directors for the Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota. Gillespie said he is excited to join an organization that “serves and employs such great people,” and he looks forward to tackling the challenges that lie ahead. “Our biggest challenge is finding staff and people who are geared toward serving others,” he said. Securing the resources to pay them is another concern. “As a nonprofit, we rely on Medicare, Medicaid and other resources that are in strong competition.” Living Well has its origins in West St. Paul. In 1972, a group of parents of children with disabilities banded together to provide services for others facing similar challenges. They named the

fledgling organization Dakota’s Children and opened a residential facility on Marie Avenue to serve children with developmental disabilities. It was one of the first community-based group homes in Minnesota. In 1997, the nonprofit changed its name to Dakota Communities. It became Living Well in 2013 to better reflect its mission and purpose. “We have a very strong culture of wellness,” said spokesperson Laurie Eggers. “Our mission is providing exceptional services that transform the lives of people impacted by disabilities. We started as Dakota’s Children in 1972 and served 48 children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a large group home near Henry Sibley High School. In the ’80s that was sold, and everyone moved into residential homes throughout the Twin Cities metro area.”

Today, the organization provides residential and customized services to all ages, either in their own home or in one of 35 group homes across the metro area. They help people with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, multiple sclerosis, autism, brain injury and other conditions live as independently as possible. Living Well employs more than 500, including full- and part-time direct care providers, occupational therapists, and medical and support staff. Services include nursing, nutritional assessment and meal planning, occupational therapy assessments, massage therapy, therapeutic and recreational programs and more. “The group homes are located in residential areas and average six residents per home,” said Eggers. “Each home has around the clock staff care with a program manager, direct support

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professionals and nursing/ therapy.” Living Well also has approximately 500 volunteers who help enhance the lives of the people they serve by playing music or games with the residents, creating care packages, organizing social events, grocery shopping and assisting with household duties. Judy Grudem knows firsthand how much these services mean to families. Her son Jeff has been receiving care since 1982. He has cerebral palsy and is developmentally delayed. Now 47, he functions at a 2- to 3-year-old level. He was just 8 when he became a resident at the Marie Avenue home and could not speak or walk. Staff helped him overcome both challenges by teaching him

sign language and providing physical therapy to improve his mobility. Today, Jeff lives in a group home in Mendota Heights. “He just loves it there,” said Judy. “He’s a happy guy and loves the people there. Most of the staff have been there a long time and know him well. I can’t say enough good things about them. It’s a very warm, loving atmosphere. It’s like an extension of our family.” For volunteer opportunities at Living Well, contact Kathy at Kathy.Anderson@ livingwell.org or 612-8058648. For more information about the organization, visit www.livingwell.org.

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Humboldt High School Senior Brian Williams Jr. reached 1,000 career points with this free throw on Feb. 9 against Highland Park. The Hawks won the game 87-86 when Williams drained two free throws with 1.6 seconds left in the game. With 1,007 points, he is now the leading scorer in the history of Humboldt boys basketball.

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S ample St. Paul

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Courtroom concert series The Schubert Club will present its popular Courtroom Concert series online in 2021 featuring a mix of full video concerts of new programs as well as archival audio recordings of past concerts held in the historic Landmark Center’s Courtroom 317. The following performances are free and may be viewed at schubert. org: Gao Hong, pipa, and Issam Rafea, oud, Mar. 11; Jeffrey Van’s “A Ring of Birds” April 1; PaviElle French April 8; Artaria String Quartet May 6.

Urban Expedition Landmark Center is hosting two virtual travel experiences in March. The free

Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society events will introduce viewers to the culture and traditions of the people of the featured country. Both will be available for 30 days at www.landmarkcenter.org/ urban-expedition/. Urban Expedition: Spain begins at 1 p.m., Sunday, Mar. 7. Urban Expedition: Iran begins at 1 p.m., Sunday, Mar. 21.

Meet the artists The Ordway Center’s Meet the Artists series continues through March. It offers free livestreamed conversations with the performers, directors, designers and artists who create shows for “Broadway at the Ordway” performances. Reservations are required. Visit www. ordway.org to make a reservation or for more information. The following hourlong conversations will be

followed by a 20-minute audience Q&A session. Brittney Mack, 6 p.m., Tuesday, Mar. 9. Mack plays Anna of Cleves, one of the lucky queens in the Broadway production of “SIX: The Musical.” She will share the importance of faith in her career, how she makes a role her own, why she knows much about being one of six, and how she summons the insatiable exuberance needed to sing “I’m the queen of the castle, get down you dirty rascal.” Tamara Tunie, 6 p.m., Tuesday, Mar. 23. Tunie was in the 2019 production of “42nd Street.” She will share stories of her work as a philanthropist and activist, her Broadway shows with Lena Horne and Denzel Washington, her film work (including

Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society will present a radio show via Zoom at 7:30 p.m., Monday, Mar. 15, April 19 and May 24. The March show features two classic radio thrillers that explore the blurry line between dreams and reality. “The Dream” spins a strange yarn about a man driven mad by dark visions. “I Saw Myself Running” is about a young woman plagued by recurring nightmares, in which she sees herself tormented by an unknown adversary. The April performance features two ghost stories inspired by the works of Montague Rhodes James. “He Who Follows Me” is a chilling tale of an innocent couple tormented by a relentless ghost. “Runestones are a Girl’s Best Friend” tells

Photo by Joe Weismann

Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society will present a radio show via Zoom on Monday, Mar. 15. The cast includes Joshua English Scrimshaw, Tim Uren, Eric Webster. of a gorgeous alchemist who puts a spell on Jimmy…or is it a curse? The May show has two tales of crime and punishment. “A Shroud for Sarah” is about an unlikely criminal mastermind who plays friend and foe in an ambitious game of murder and political intrigue. “A Guy Like Me” is of man hoping to abandon his life of crime.

Each evening includes live trivia-worthy introductions by the company and two pre-recorded half-hour radio dramas, followed by a live chat Q & A with the cast. Tickets are $18 per household. A 3-show package is $36. To order, visit www. parksquaretheatre.org or email tickets@parksquaretheatre.org.

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Page 6 - St. Paul Voice - March 2021

N ews Briefs

Your community news and information source

Read Brave hosts ‘Owning our Stories’ series Read Brave, a program of the St. Paul Public Library that uses the power of stories to build a safer, healthier community, is hosting virtual programs in March and April. Through the reading and evaluation of pre-selected books, the program seeks to build awareness and empathy on the theme “Owning Our Stories: Rising Together for a Better St. Paul.” Programs will be hosted by a variety of organizations and consist of discussions, programs and activities. Conversations will be centered on self-worth, racial healing, reconciliation, liberation and accountability as they relate to book characters and BIPOC authors. Some authors will be available for questions and discussion. Books can be checked out from St. Paul public libraries. Below is a list of the titles and descriptions provided by the library. For more information, call 651-266-7000 or visit www.readbrave.org.

“The Stars and the Blackness Between Them” by Junauda Petrus. This book is told from the perspective of two 16-year-old girls who fall in love when they are reunited after many years apart. Mabel and Audre work to develop their budding relationship despite different backgrounds and the ordinary troubles of being women of color, but their love is put to the test when one of them learns she faces a fatal illness. This story combines elements of fantasy, bittersweet realism and spirituality to tell the coming-of-age story of these two complex, young Black women and show that love can either break or grow stronger when facing life’s struggles. “Children of the Land: A Memoir” by Marcelo Hernandez Castillo. Shedding light on the lives of undocumented immigrants and their lives after their families are split up, this

memoir jumps through different parts of Castillo’s life, where both physical and social boundaries keep his happiness at bay. Providing detailed history on immigration statuses, as well as the thought processes of immigrants, this book allows readers to examine the journey of split families and how individuals learn to cope with these boundaries. “Front Desk” by Kelly Yang; a children’s book selection. Mia Tang is a 10-yearold Chinese American immigrant whose family is being financially cheated by the motel owner they work for. She takes it upon herself to make a difference in her family’s situation as well as help others in the community. Her story is one of indefatigable hope and of triumph over injustice, and her voice is genuine and inspiring. Ages 8-12. “Astrid and Apollo and the Starry Campout” by V. T. Bidania; a children’s book

{ THE FULLER FILES } Patrick McGovern’s pub on West Seventh Street near the Xcel Center had its liquor license suspended for 24 days and was issued a $10,000 fine for violating Gov. Tim Walz’s executive orders regarding indoor dining during the COVID-19 pandemic. During an inspection, Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) staff found that customers were being served in a patio area that has retractable walls and a ceiling that opens to the outdoors but both were closed at the time of the visit. The original penalty was a 60-day suspension beginning Jan. 5. MDH has since waived the additional time and will forgive the fine, unless McGovern’s violates the order again. The St. Paul City Council has established the St. Paul Recovery Act Community Reparations Commission to promote racial healing and consider reparations for descendants of enslaved persons living in St. Paul. The vacant Sears building near the State Capitol is now being used as a training center for police, fire and emergency responders, and will serve as a center to coordinate response efforts during protests and mass demonstrations in the city. The St. Paul City Council has placed a limit on the amount that delivery services can charge to restaurants,

and mandated that customers receive an itemized statement identifying each charge. St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter will seek a second 4-year term in the November election. Previously he served as a city council member for Ward 1, and a cabinet member during former Gov. Mark Dayton’s administration. He is the first African American mayor of the city

selection. Astrid is anxious about her family’s camping trip because she is afraid of the dark (and bears) but her twin, Apollo, is looking forward to the experience. When they go, Astrid keeps herself together until she hears the scratching outside the family’s tent. Even though fear floods over her, she is determined not to let her father face the possible threat alone. “We are Water Protectors” by Carole Lindstrom, illustrated by Michaela Goade; a children’s book selection. A child learns from her grandmother that water is the first medicine, and that oil pipelines (“the black snake”) threaten to wreck everything they touch. The girl, Anishinaabe, takes action to battle a pipeline and help save the environment. An author’s note traces the story’s genesis to the 2016 Standing Rock protests in the Dakotas.

The downtown beat by Roger Fuller

and a fourth-generation St. Paul resident. The Glow drive-through holiday festival at the State Fairgrounds attracted approximately 180,000 people. A total of 47,000 vehicles, with an average of four people each, cruised through the lighted displays between Nov. 19 and Jan. 3. The organizer donated $94,000 to local charities.

Live coverage of youth hockey Fans of youth hockey now have access to live sporting events taking place at the West St. Paul Ice Arena. The West St. Paul City Council has approved a 6-year contract with LiveBarn to broadcast from the arena. LiveBarn is a national company that provides live and ondemand streaming of youth and amateur sporting events. Subscribers pay a monthly fee to watch unlimited video. The Sibley Area Youth Hockey Association requested that LiveBarn be allowed to have a facility at the arena and the council unanimously approved it at its Jan. 11 meeting. The City has no financial obligation and, in fact, may actually make money on the service. LiveBarn, which has facilities in other local arenas, including South St. Paul and several in St. Paul, installs its own equipment and pays for its own internet access. In addition, it will pay the City a 30% revenue share for any subscriber who signs up using a code unique to the West St. Paul arena and maintains a paid membership. The subscriber gets a 10% discount on the membership. The agreement includes a clause that excludes other automated broadcast systems from operating at the arena. This does not affect recording or broadcasting by individuals or NDC4 cable TV.

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N ews Briefs

UGM names CEO Pamela Stegora Axberg has been named CEO of Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities. She succeeds Dr. Charles Morgan, who resigned last June after serving nearly six years in that role. Axberg was named interim CEO in July 2020. Prior to that, she was a senior vice president at UnitedHealthcare. “These are pivotal times for cities around the country, including the Twin Cities, as we struggle to serve those

Your community news and information source experiencing homelessness, poverty, mental health issues and addiction,” said Kathryn Stark, board chair at the Mission. “The pandemic’s impact has increased the number of people in need. There is much to do. Pam, with her extensive healthcare expertise in medical and behavioral operations coupled with her lifelong commitment to nonprofit organizations, is ideally suited to help us address growing needs in our Minneapolis and St. Paul communities.”

ISD 197 Spelling Bee champions The Optimist Club of West St. Paul announces the winners of this year’s Independent School District 197 Spelling Bees. Students from five elementary and

Postscript

Stretch pants lifestyle

I don’t remember exactly when I took to living in stretch pants full time. The process was gradual, I’m sure of that. I started out wearing a pair of bellbottom stretch pants while writing. I didn’t actually live in them; they were part of my writing costume and they were comfy. But as the pandemic wore on, I noticed the legs of my stretch pants getting longer and longer until, one day, I noticed they were covering my feet, and it was not a re-

Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com

spectable look. “I need to upgrade my stretch pants,” I decided. So I bought stretch pants

two middle schools participated. Winners are: Natalia Carlson, Garlough Environmental Magnet; Caroline Forgit, Mendota Elementary; Maverick Yang, Moreland Arts & Health Sciences Magnet; Srinika Srikakulam, Pilot Knob STEM Magnet; and Audrey Stukenberg, Somerset Elementary. Audrey, a fourth grader, was also named the Elementary School Spelling Bee Grand Champion. Juni Gessner won the contest at Heritage, and Brianna Anaya Ledesma, a sixth-grade student at Friendly Hills Middle School, won her school’s contest and was also named the Middle Schools Grand Champion. The club provided medallions for all the contestants and mailed gift cards to the winners. The club, which

has sponsored events in the community since 1971, also hosts the Optimist Essay Contest, West St. Paul Sings, and Santa Phone Line. For more information, contact Cheryl Bergstrom at ckbergstrom@hotmail.com or 651450-7391.

with pockets. Pockets in stretch pants are completely useless because you can’t put anything in them without it looking as if you have a growth on your leg. A credit card makes a bump. A key looks like the beginnings of a tumor. And yet the pockets signaled that these stretch pants were almost like regular pants. They just stretched. They were certainly less disreputable-looking than the ones that covered my feet. I started wearing them most of the day. In late afternoon I go for a hike, and that’s when I put on my second pair of stretch pants: my hiking stretch pants. “There’s nothing wrong with hiking in stretch pants,”

I remind myself. “These are athletic stretch pants!” My hiking stretch pants look nothing at all like the stretch pants I just took off because they don’t have pockets. I wear them exclusively on my hike, and they are a little worn out because dogs jump up on them and bushes snag them. You would certainly never mistake them for my regular stretch pants, the ones I wear the rest of the day. One day I got home from my hike, took a hot bath and thought, “Wouldn’t it be nice to just slip into something comfy like ... maybe stretch pants?” That’s when I brought out my old stretch pants—the disreputable ones that cover my feet—and put them on.

“I can look a little disreputable in the evening,” I figured. These aren’t as tight as the stretch pants with pockets, and are a bit heavier, which is nice on a cool night. I think of them as my “casual stretch pants” and wear them while making dinner and lounging about in the evening. One night while getting ready for bed, I put on my nightgown and had an epiphany. “What I need is nighttime stretch pants!” Not the stretch pants with pockets, of course. That would be ridiculous. And not the ones that dogs jump all over on my hike. Nor would I need anything as substantial as my casual evening stretch pants. I found a pair that were

loose and made of a lighter fabric and, I am here to tell you, paired with a nightgown, they are the perfect pajamas. So now I move through my day from one pair of stretch pants to the next, marking the movement of the sun across the sky like a sundial by changing into a different pair—stretch pants that might appear, to the untrained eye, as strikingly similar in appearance. There’s talk that we all may be able to get out and about more in the near future. Of course I’m delighted. But it does seem a bit of a shame, having finally perfected my stretch pants lifestyle. Till next time.

Student notes

Morse, Charles Rutman, Joseph Schwirtz, Karissa Tschida, Julia Wang, Rachel Ziskin, Brendan McFadden, Emma Boehm, Josephine Hall and Jake Wendt Graduates: Eve Meltzer, bachelor of science in geological engineering, Reed Doud, bachelor of science in mechanical engineering College of Charleston president’s list: Anne Underwood University of Wisconsin-Stout dean’s list: Eric Burrell, Seon Dittman, Seringa McHugh, Jacob Redding and Lydia Wagner Normandale Community College dean’s list: Patrick Okonek University of MinnesotaDuluth dean’s list: Carter Henry and Riley Altier

Northwest Technical College dean’s list: James Sechter Wheaton College dean’s list: Joseph Gross University of Iowa: Alexandra Halsall earned a bachelor of arts in communication studies. Justin Wheeler and Matthew Richards were named to the dean’s list St. Cloud State University dean’s list: Lisa Moua College of the Holy Cross dean’s list: Aidan McSweeney University of WisconsinLa Crosse dean’s list: Ruby Filhart and Ellie Quehl Bethel University dean’s list: Annie Gydesen, Natalie St. John and Katie Hawkins Miami University dean’s list: Emily Schlinger

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Home Stretch Workshop Neighborhood Development Alliance is hosting a virtual first-time homebuyer course on Friday, Mar. 12, 5:30-8:30 p.m., and Saturday, Mar. 13, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The workshop includes information on down payment and closing costs assistance programs and allows participants to speak with lenders, real estate agents, home inspectors and other industry professionals. Cost

St. Mary’s University dean’s list: Justine Cobbett and Amanda Tuvey Gonzaga University president’s list: Grace Redpath and Margaret Conners Gustavus Adolphus dean’s list: Abigail Ludwig, Madeline McDermott, Thomas McDermott, Sophia Redding, Elizabeth Whitcomb and Amanda Hoffman Iowa State University dean’s list: Allison Amelse, Kally Dreelan, Michael Lavigne, Brayden Roe, Grace Bryant, Anna Erickson and Abigail Jo Libbesmeier University of WisconsinMadison. Dean’s list: Rachel Farber, Max Lerman, Max Gantman, Dennis Kelly, Robin Moody, Veronica

Cintrón named community development officer at Old National Bank Joannette Cintrón has been named the new community development officer for Old National Bank’s Minnesota market. In her

new role, she will lead efforts in community outreach and financial education, particularly in underserved communities. She previously served as a community development mortgage loan originator for the bank for the past three years. Cintrón is fluent in English and Spanish and teaches homeownership classes in both languages. She has a bachelor of arts in organizational management and leadership from Concordia University and a mini masters in project management from the University of St. Thomas. She is also a member of the Homeownership Opportunity Alliance, and a board member for Neighborhood Development Alliance.

N ews Briefs

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Ballet Co. Laboratory to host festival featuring BIPOC choreographers

t the beginning of 2020, West Sidebased Ballet Co. Laboratory (BCL) was gearing up for the highly anticipated world premiere of a new rock ballet based on the life of Freddie Mercury, their school enrollment was growing rapidly, and the organization was developing strategic plans to move their art form forward. Like most of the nation, that all came to a grinding halt on Mar. 13, as the company dancers and staff of Ballet Co.Laboratory clustered around a small laptop to watch the governor announce the first statewide stay-at-home order in response to COVID-19. “As we temporarily closed our doors that day, it felt like the darkest moment in our organization’s history, there was just so much unknown,” said Managing Director Rachel Koep, “but little did we know, it was actually the start of a new digital era for

T A X H E L P

our organization.” Within a week, the faculty and staff had created a full roster of online programming, which to date has offered more than 418 Zoom dance classes. So far this season, the organization has offered five virtual outreach events, performed outdoors in partnership with Tiny Balcony Concerts, hosted a drive-in style fundraising performance, created a new full-length holiday ballet for film, and has kept 32 professional artists employed during a global pandemic. “I am so grateful to Ballet Co. Laboratory for placing their focus on artists throughout this pandemic,” said company dancer Rosa Prigan. “It would have been easy to just close the doors and wait it out. But that would have left us [the professional artists of Ballet Co. Laboratory] without a paycheck and no performance opportunities to share with our community.”

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So far this season, the organization has held five virtual outreach events, performed outdoors, created a new full-length holiday ballet for film, and has kept 32 professional artists employed during a global pandemic. Thanks to a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, BCL is currently working to financially and artistically support four local, emerging BIPOC choreographers as they create new works of classical and contemporary ballet for the company dancers and stu-

dents of BCL. These new works will be featured in a two-day virtual festival titled “Laboratory II,” which will air March 20-21on any streaming device. Tickets are $30-45 per household; purchase at balletcolaboratory.org/season or 651-3133967.

Soon, you’ll be able to wash your car—and your pet—at one location in West St. Paul. Linn Investments Properties, LLC, has purchased the former Perkins Restaurant building at 1365 Robert St. and will demolish it in April to make way for Tumble Fresh Coin Laundry and Pet Fresh Dog Wash. The 4,800-square-foot laundromat will have multi-load machines that handle bulky items, a seating area, TVs, free Wi-Fi and vending machines. The new building will have a separate entrance for the Pet Fresh Dog Wash, a self-service operation. Tumble Fresh has nine locations in the metro area, and three more in development.

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C ommunity

Your community news and information source Nancy Brady President

Each March, Neighborhood House raises money for our food markets. Donations are traditionally low this time of year and our March Food Drive helps us stock our shelves to ensure that families get the food they need all year long. Your support will directly help people like Jerry who have been affected by COVID-19. Jerry was laid off in March 2020, and today it is difficult for him to make ends meet. After paying his rent, he has only $100 left from his monthly Social Security benefit. The food market at Neighborhood House, along with government food benefits, are critical in supplementing his income. But Jerry isn’t just worried about himself. He’s worried about others too. He was a generous person before the pandemic and is still trying his best to share what he can with others who are hurting. “It breaks my heart…to see people struggling every day just with basic needs, to feed themselves, to feed their children,” he said.

Neighbors, Inc. Charlie Thompson President & CEO

Throughout the nearly 50-year history of Neighbors, we have relied on the generous support of our community. The gifting of time, talent and treasure has allowed us to help our neighbors thrive by offering food, clothing, transportation and other services to people in need. For much of our

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Jerry knows what it’s like to go through a difficult time. When he was younger, he became involved with drugs, and his life spiraled downward. He tried to improve himself but couldn’t seem to get the help he needed. “Everywhere I went everybody told me ‘no’,” he said. Feeling like he hit rock bottom, Jerry tried to take his life, more than once. “That’s when I realized that God wants me alive for a reason,” he said. “So now I try to help other people. I give bus fare. If they need food, if they need a shower, or to crash for a few days, I let them do that—without questioning what brought them there. I give people what I got. I don’t turn nobody away.” Using his food benefits and the food market at Neighborhood House, Jerry helps ensure that his neighbors have the food they need by placing a box of food outside his apartment. He’s been doing this since the start of the pandemic. While the past several months haven’t been easy for Jerry, he’s determined to remain positive. “This pandemic will not break me down to the point where I treat people different,” he said. “If each person would go out every day and do or say something nice to a person, do you know the difference that would make?” Jerry hopes to go back to work as a cook but those jobs are hard to come by now. Until then, Neighborhood House’s food markets will be there for him, just like he’s there for his neighbors. To learn how you can help, visit www.neighb.org/marchfood-drive.

history, March has been a time when we focus on raising awareness around hunger in our community and what it takes to feed our neighbors. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign. Neighbors has participated in the program since 1983, as noted in our board minutes from March of that year: “The Metro Foodshare Drive was a success. As a result, a fourth food shelf was opened at St. Augustine’s, enabling staff to conveniently handle some of the emergency food needs.” Neighbors has participated in every March campaign since that time. Over the years, it has resulted in millions of pounds food and dollars donated to help support the food shelf and our neighbors in need in Northern Dakota County. It was during Minnesota FoodShare month one year ago when our operations were forever changed. During the onset of the pandemic our community stepped up to support Neighbors in historic fashion by contributing a record number of donations. As a result of the generosity and needs of our community, Neighbors has been able to once again expand its hunger relief program.

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What at first seemed like an unfortunate situation quickly turned into an opportunity for us to share our resources with residents of local housing complexes who struggle with low income and transportation barriers. We first partnered with an apartment complex in West St. Paul, and because of the dedication of the apartment staff, Neighbors staff and support from volunteer drivers, were able to make it an official Neighbors Express satellite food shelf location within a few short months. Currently, we transport food to this location three times a week. In December, it had more than 300 visits for food assistance. We are excited to be expanding Neighbors Express in the near future to two more sites at housing communities in South St. Paul and are grateful for the opportunity to meet the changing needs of our community by providing food support in different ways. Looking back on 40 years of history with Minnesota FoodShare, the one constant has been the generosity of our community. You continue to support Neighbors, and Neighbors continues to support people in need. Thank you for giving so generously. For more information on how to participate in Minnesota FoodShare’s March campaign, visit www.neighborsmn.org.

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“This pandemic will not break me down to the point where I treat people different,” said Jerry. “If each person would go out every day and do or say something nice to a person, do you know the difference that would make?”

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C ommunity Boosters from page 1 For some, however, there is no fee at all. A longstanding policy of the organization is that no child is turned away because he or she cannot afford the registration fee.

Coaching legends The Boosters have always emphasized quality coaching. The list of the great ones goes all the way back to the Flats. Legendary names from that era include Harry Gaston, “Beat Al” Monita, Pete Luna and Chato Reyes. But it doesn’t stop there. Others that must be included—and my apologies if I leave someone out— are de la O and his two sons Roman and Diego, Robert Alizondo, Tony Ruiz, Jesse “Shadey” Vasquez, Don Luna, Rick Hernandez, Sr., Arnulfo Florez, Sr., Arnulfo Florez, Jr., Santino Franco, Bob Cruz, Jo Jo Verdeja, Dino Alsides, and Catalina Adamez Smith whose marvelous coaching career stretches over three decades. I don’t belong in that company, but I coached a few years around the turn of the century. Both of my kids— one of each gender—and my

Your community news and information source wife and I benefited mightily because of our affiliation with the West Side Boosters. Like most Booster coaches, I can proudly brag that we won a lot more than we lost, and we compiled oceans of good vibes along the way. My son Luke, now 26, still stands in awe of his favorite coach, Roman de la O, who coached his football team named the Aztecs. To this day, in the late fall when it starts snowing and the winds start howling, Luke inevitably mimes his coach: “This is Aztec weather!”

Gender equity For the first half of its existence, the Boosters was virtually an all-male organization. There were no women members, no women on the board of directors, no women coaches. But there were hundreds of women who made valuable contributions. A constant throughout the years has been the goodwill of a large majority of the parents whose kids wear the uniforms and, more importantly, their willingness to help out. While it was the moms who were often the most involved in fundraising activities and organizing and running concessions stands,

they were not part of the decision-making process. “In hindsight it was pretty pathetic. I guess it was a sign of the times, before the women’s movement started to gain traction,” said de la O. “Now women, as they should be, are an integral part of the Boosters. They serve on the Board, they coach, and they continue to show off their organizational skills with our fundraising activities. They truly are the glue that has kept the Boosters intact.” In 2010, when the organization was in the midst of a fundraising crisis, Mary Hane became the club treasurer. She was one of the pioneers who broke through the glass ceiling that had prevented women from inclusion in the club. “I never thought of it as a campaign to include women,” recalled Hane. “My two sons participated in Booster activities for a dozen years and I was always involved. When I was invited to become the club treasurer, I accepted because I knew it would be an opportunity to help out in a very significant way.”

Finding success Bob Cruz has been a part of the West Side Booster

culture for three decades. His first exposure came as a second grader in 1990. He played three years on the Under 14 football team coached by Larry Lucio and, in 1996, played against Joe Mauer in the City title game at Municipal Stadium. Cruz has had three stints as a Booster coach. In 2013, he became coach of the Under 14 football team and has led them to seven consecutive City championships. He also serves on the Board as vice president and coordinates the traveling basketball program. Over the past five years, he has taken eighth grade flag football teams to Florida, and traveling basketball teams to Kansas City, Chicago and Las Vegas. “I do it because I find it stimulating and rewarding and I want to give something back,” said Cruz. “I work hard to provide a healthy and constructive culture for these kids. It’s about history, pride, discipline, respect and the love of the game.” It was in 2014 that the organization got a true shot in the arm with the construction of the “Twins All-Star Park at Gilbert de la O Fields.” It was a half-million dollar project

paid in full by the Minnesota Twins and Major League Baseball. Two years later, a state-of-the-art artificial turf field, financed in large part by the City of St. Paul and located adjacent to the baseball fields, was dedicated. Suddenly, the West Side Booster athletic venues were the equal of any youth athletic association in St. Paul. Carlo Franco, 26, is the Club’s current president, a position his father, Santino, held a decade ago. Because of the pandemic, almost all 2020 activities were cancelled, including the 50th anniversary celebration. Testament to the health of the organization, Franco created a document entitled “2019 West Side Boosters by the Numbers.” Registration numbers: tackle football (235), flag football (20), in-house basketball (101), traveling basketball (50), volleyball (55), T-ball (45), traveling baseball (20), softball (12), cheerleaders (35). Total participants served in 2019: 573. Volunteer hours accumulated by the board of directors, season coordinators, coaches and fundraisers totaled 9,091 hours. Those are robust numbers and a

positive sign for the Boosters as they embark on their sixth decade as a youth athletic organization.

‘Who are we?’ There is a team ritual that has become a signature part of the Club’s culture. After every practice and before and after every game, coaches and team members gather in a team huddle with hands held high. When the coach asks, “Who are we?” the kids respond in unison, “West Side!” Again, “Who are we?” “West Side!” And, finally, reaching a crescendo, “Who are we?” “West Side Boosters!” It’s a battle cry that has been heard on athletic fields all over the state and beyond. While I was coaching it was not unusual for someone unfamiliar with the location of the team to approach and ask with a quizzical look on his face, “What is the West Side?” “Well, it’s a community on the south side of the Mississippi River in St. Paul,” I would reply. And, generally, that would confuse them even more. So then I would say, “The West Side is the best side!” Case closed.

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St. Paul Voice - March 2021 - Page 11

H ome Improvement

Your community news and information source

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lanning a project this spring or summer? This primer will help you get the job done right. Research - Taking time to research projects on the internet and NARI.org will provide a good sense of what is involved regarding cost, scope of work, return on investment and material options. You should also research property values in your neighborhood to make sure your project is in line with other homes in the area. Long-term plan - To ensure your project will fit your lifestyle, consider how long you plan to stay in your home and how your family structure might change over time. Set your budget - Deciding on a realistic budget and arranging finances to support your project are essential. Share your budget with your remodeler. Finding professionals - Ask friends, family and neighbors for referrals and spend time researching the

recommended individuals or companies online. Professional remodelers take their reputation seriously and hold credentials beyond licensing, such as certifications, memberships in trade associations and additional training. Check online reviews and social media to see how they interacted with past clients and peers. Ask the right questions - Ask your professional remodeler about their educational background, training, specialties or past issues with clients, and how the remodeling process will work. Verify your remodeler Check the information you receive, including references, license numbers, insurance information and certifications by calling providers to verify. If you are undertaking a large project, you might want to request a visit to an active client’s jobsite and talk to the homeowner. Review contracts word by word - A remodeling contract protects you and your remodeler. Homeowners should review contracts carefully and ask questions

about terms or items they don’t understand. Pay attention to details about change orders, payment, additional fees, timeline and responsibilities. If it’s not in the contract, it doesn’t exist. Keep design in mind Your design guides the entire project. Think about what you dislike about your current space and the intended use of the new space. Use websites such as Pinterest. com and Houzz.com to gather design ideas. Make your selections Deciding on products and materials is a larger process than most imagine. With so many options to choose from, product selections are one of the primary reasons that project timelines get extended. Base decisions on quality, function, price, style and availability. Include selections in the contract to lock down pricing and keep your budget intact. Create a communication plan - A common downfall in remodeling is lack of communication between homeowners and remodelers. Your remodeler should lay out a

communication plan at the beginning of the project. If not, ask them to do so. This plan should clarify roles of everyone involved, communication methods, availability and frequency of communication that is expected.

Tips on hiring a remodeler Start by searching the National Association of the Remodeling Industry at nari. org. You can search by zip code and by specialty. You can also research names and background of qualified remodelers that may have been supplied by neighbors and friends to verify licensing and certifications. Here are the most common types of

contractors: Design-Build - A design-build firm offers quality design and construction services within the same general company. Because a design-build contractor understands job costs as well as design concepts, the entire process is engineered to fit your budget and vision right from the beginning. Remodeling - Many home improvements do not require professional design services. Projects like porch construction, roofing, siding and window replacement can be handled successfully by experienced professional contractors with an intimate knowledge of materials and methods.

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Page 12 - St. Paul Voice - March 2021