South St. Paul Voice December 2023 by St. Paul Publishing Co.

South St. Paul ‘I am Betty’ comes to History Theatre Page 8 Volume 20 | Number 12

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December 2023

City council developments

SSP Choralettes host their final season

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

fter 57 years of spreading cheer in the community through lively vocal performances, the South St. Paul Choralettes have made the hard decision to disband at the end of the year. The nonprofit women’s singing ensemble typically performed eight times in the fall and six times in the spring, and occasionally presented a formal spring concert. In recent years, however, circumstances have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, increased expenses and the group’s safety concerns regarding COVID and winter travel. Members range in age from 45 to 87 and the longest standing member, Naomi Dorau, has been with the Choralettes for 53 years. In December, the group will perform five times at assisted living facilities and once at the Town Square Television studio. The latter will be their final performance. It will be recorded and aired on channel 14 the entire month of December. Founded in 1966 by nine women, the group was originally funded by the City of South St. Paul as singing ambassadors and performed at major city events such as Kaposia Days, veterans’ Memorial Day services, and Christmas in South St. Paul, last held in 2010. The city stopped funding the Choralettes about 20 years ago, forcing the group to fundraise through bake sales, a bingo event during KaChoralettes / Page 2

Photo by Sarah Dope

The GLOW festival, held through Dec. 31, features more than a million lights, a 60-foot-tall tree, Charity Flame and more. Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

eartwarming and cheer-inducing events abound this month, unleashing the magic of the holiday season and uniting neighbors across the city. Our annual Holiday Event Guide helps you discover the perfect events to sprinkle into your schedule and make the most of the holiday season. The celebration begins here.

Skate with Santa - The annual Skate with Santa is held 1-2:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 3 at Doug Woog Arena, 141 6th St. S. Skate rental is free with a nonperishable donation for Neighbors Inc. Hot chocolate will be provided. Blades in Motion will present its Holiday Skate Show 12:30-1 p.m. Figure skaters will showcase their talent in a mesmerizing display of spins, jumps Holiday events / Page 5

he South St. Paul City Council will adopt its 2024 budget at its December 4 meeting. The preliminary budget is $25 million, a 7.51% increase from last year. The increase is attributed to the hiring of two new police officers, a support position that will assist with engineering and development services, and the rising costs of supplies, although revenue sources other than the levy are covering those increases. Therefore, if approved as-is, the owner of an average priced home should see little to no increase in their City property taxes for 2024. Library closure - The South St. Paul library will be closed starting December 2 as materials are transferred to the new Kaposia Library, set to open in early 2024 at Seventh and Marie. During the transition, customers can pick up holds and return items at Central Square Community Center, 100 7th Ave. N. A shelf in the lobby will have items on hold and a large bin outside will be for returns. Central Square’s lobby is open 5 a.m.-8 p.m., weekdays, and 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays. The new county-owned Kaposia Library will feature a large community meeting room, several conference rooms equipped with audio-visual technology, study rooms, a reading garden and more. Construction will be complete by the end of the year. To learn more, visit dakotacounty.us/library City council / Page 3

Longtime local retailer retires, business will close Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

or more than 50 years, people have visited the green-bannered building at 601 Marie Ave. to peruse the racks of fashionable threads or get a special outfit tailored just right, but that will soon come to an end. B & G Crossing owner Dave Gerkovich, 71, recently announced that he

will close the business in early January and sell the building. Everything is on sale until he locks the door for the final time. “It’ll be sad to see it close, but I’ve been thinking about it for quite a while,” said Gerkovich. “I want to spend more time with my wife and traveling…. I’ve been getting a lot of cards and flowers, and people stopping by to congratulate me on my re-

tirement.” Gerkovich isn’t selling the store because he wants a clean break when he walks away, and several people have already inquired about purchasing the building. The building itself has always been in his family. His father’s uncle, Kiki Gerkovich, built it 90 years ago and operated Marie Avenue Grocery there until handing it down to Gerkovich’s father,

who changed the name to Marie Avenue Dry Goods and began selling fabric, patterns and clothing. During World War II and at the height of the Stockyards era, many workers and their families shopped at the store for uniforms and other supplies. Dave started working at the store at age 12, cleaning and stocking shelves. The name was changed to B & G Crossing when his

brother-in-law John Blaisdell joined the business. In 1976 Dave bought him out and assumed full ownership. Gerkovich has since refined the focus to men’s and women’s clothing, and tailoring outfits for weddings, proms and other events. He’s always had around a half-dozen employees, some of whom are also seasoned sewers, and they’ve worked hard to help everyone look

their best, he said. Dave and wife Kasey were both born and raised in South St. Paul, and they have one daughter. Kasey spent her career with the state legislature until retiring a few years ago but has always lent a hand at the shop when needed. They fostered their deep relationship with the community by participating in the

B & G / Page 3

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Choralettes from page 1

posia Days, working concessions at the Xcel Energy Center, and other sources. A grant from the State of Minnesota kept them humming along for several years and when those funds ran out they kept going thanks to donations from the South St. Paul Lion’s Club. Mary George, the group’s second longest member at 44 years, has many fond memories of the group, which had 25 members at its height and now has 13. She recounted one year when she asked the director to join her on a trip to Iowa and sing at her mother’s nursing home

on Mother’s Day. Apparently the other Choralettes overheard, and before she knew it nine members were eagerly piling into a 15-passenger van to make the trip with her. “It still touches my heart,” she said. “That’s the type of caring ladies that are part of this group, and it’s a shining example of the lifelong friendships that we’ve created.” The group is well versed in many genres of music including Christmas, classical, show tunes, patriotic, religious and folk. People in nursing homes particularly adore oldies from the 1940s

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like “Sentimental Journey” and “String of Pearls,” and George said the Choralettes have been happy to bring the music to them rather than simply hold concerts like many other choral groups in the state. A recent letter from George and another group member, Stephanie Stockton, thanked the organizations, people and places that helped keep the group active all these years, including Luther Memorial Church in South St. Paul, where the group rehearses, and Bethesda Lutheran Church in Inver Grove Heights, their original rehearsal space. The letter read, in part: “A special thank you to the very talented directors and accompanists that Southview Shopping Center 12th Ave. and Southview Blvd., SSP

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Page 2 - South St. Paul Voice - December 2023

Photo by Dan Edgerton

The Choralettes are well versed in many genres of music including Christmas, classical, show tunes, patriotic, religious and folk. we have had the honor of working with throughout the years and all of the amazing women who have volunteered their time and talents to make the South St. Paul Choralettes a very spe-

cial group of singers. A huge thank you to all the people that we have shared our joy of singing with throughout the Twin Cities metro area and beyond. You’ve motivated us with your laughter, smiles,

tears and applause and we are so very grateful for each and every one of you. We will truly miss all of you. Remember to always keep music in your life, for it will set your spirit free.”

Parks and Rec field trips

continents. Register for each trip by December 20 by contacting Parks and Rec at 651-366-6200 or the department’s page at southstpaul. org.

fourth Monday of each month. For agendas and school board member contact information, visit sspps. org or call 651-457-9400. The South St. Paul Lions Club meets at 7:15 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month (September - May). For more information, visit ssplions.org. South St. Paul Southwest Lioness-Lions Club meets the second Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at Angelo’s Italian Restaurant, 1203 Southview Blvd., South St. Paul. This group of women serves the community through fundraising and volunteering.

South St. Paul Parks and Rec is hosting two field trips in late December. The Fun Lab Field Trip is 8:30 a.m.4 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 27. It includes laser tag, bumper cars and mini bowling at Fun Lab, and swimming and gym play at the Veterans Memorial Community Center aquatic center in Inver Grove Heights. The SeaQuest trip is 8:30 a.m.4 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 28. It begins with games and crafts at Veteran’s Memorial Community Center, then a trip to Seaquest to see exhibits featuring animals from five

Meeting dates The South St. Paul City Council meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Monday of each month in the council chambers at City Hall, 125 3rd Ave. N. For agendas and city council member contact information, visit southstpaul.org or call 651554-3284. The Special School District 6 School Board meets at 6 p.m. the second and

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South St. Paul HRA B & G Crossing owner Dave Gerkovich, 71, started working at the store at age 12, cleaning and stocking shelves.

B&G from page 1

Kaposia Days parade and other community events, as well as promotions within the business community. For example, in the late 1980s, Gerkovich and fellow retailer Jerry Shultz – former owner of Schultz’s Shoes located down the block from B & G – began holding sidewalk sales outside their storefronts one weekend each summer.

The sales caught on with other nearby businesses and the trend continued for about 20 years. It’s no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on independent businesses that were forced to close while corporate stores such as Target and Walmart stayed open. Gerkovich said the store lost a whole season of sales and that buying patterns haven’t been the same since. The main reason he’s kept the store open in recent years is because he

City council from page 1

and search “Kaposia.” Redevelopment - Bremer Bank recently moved into its new building at 633 Concord St. S. and demolished its old one on the same lot at the end of October. Now it is selling a portion of that lot to a trucking company. Property owner Kriss Novak recently signed a purchase agreement with Pride Group Enterprises, which aims to build a 16,000-square-foot facility that will sell, lease and repair electric trucks. Pride plans to submit a development application to the city council this month requesting permission to operate the business from a temporary sales trailer while developing the permanent facility. They would open the trailer as soon as January and expect to have the permanent building completed by summer 2025. Bridgepoint - Binder, a longtime heating and air conditioning company based in South St. Paul, recently signed a $155,000 purchase agreement for the 1.75-acre city-owned property at 110 Bridgepoint Court. Binder

has outgrown the building it constructed in the late 1980s at 222 Hardman Ave. N. and plans to build a new 20,000-square-foot office warehouse at the new site – about half of which would be leased to other small businesses. Several surveys, inspections, and government approvals must still be completed, but if there are no snags the deal will close on May 6, 2024. Construction would begin by August 31 and be completed by the end of 2025. Binder’s old property may be sold back to the city’s Economic Development Authority. Wakota Trailhead improvements - Last April, the city council awarded a $1.58 million construction project to Ebert Construction for work at Wakota Scenic Trailhead, located at the south end of Verderosa Avenue, just under the I-494 Wakota Bridge and next to the DNR boat launch and the South St. Paul community gardens. The project includes construction of a multi-use trail connection, a trailhead facility with rest-

enjoys connecting with all the people that come through the doors. He said he’s always tried to go the extra mile to take care of his customers and fill a need, and that he’ll miss seeing them. The next few weeks will be busy as he sells off his inventory and says goodbye to his many loyal customers. Come January, he will set his sights on retirement, a wellearned achievement for one of the city’s longest-standing retailers.

rooms and a picnic shelter, and adding wayfinding, a bicycle fix-it station and landscaping. Since then, several change orders have been processed. One was funded entirely by Dakota County and called for the addition of conduit from the building to the parking lot to be used for a future electric vehicle charging station. In November, three more were approved by the South St. Paul City Council. One was for the removal and disposal of unforeseen debris, such as abandoned pipes and concrete ducts, and another was to use flexible high-density polyethylene piping rather than copper piping for water services because of unforeseen underground obstacles. The other was to remove the originally proposed rain garden from the plan and modify the building’s ventilation pipes, both due to feedback from the State’s plumbing review. Altogether, the project cost has increased $34,074. Funding sources include DNR Local Trail Grant funds, National Park Service Grant funds, Federal Land Access Program, Capital Program Funds and Dakota County Matching Funds.

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Advent and Christmas Schedule

Church of Saint Matthew • 510 Hall Avenue, St. Paul www.st-matts.org • (651) 224-9793 Here the love of Christ shall end divisions. All are welcome.

Saint Paul Civic Symphony Concert Sunday, December 3 – 3:00 pm Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Vigil, Thursday, December 7 – 6:00 pm Christmas Bake & Craft Sale and Boutique Saturday, December 9 – 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm Sunday, December 10 – 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Breakfast with Santa Sunday, December 10 – 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Communal Reconciliation Service Sunday, December 17 – 2:00 pm 4th Sunday of Advent Saturday, December 23 – 4:15 pm Sunday, December 24 – 10:15 am Christmas Eve Vigil, Sunday, December 24 – 4:15 pm Christmas Day Monday, December 25 – 10:15 am The Feast of the Holy Family Saturday, December 30 – 4:15 pm Sunday, December 31 – 10:15 am Solemnity of Mary, The Holy Mother of God Monday, January 1, 2024 – 10:15 am The Church of St. Matthew is a Catholic community that is a visible expression of God’s love.

South St. Paul Voice - December 2023 - Page 3

S ports Lace ‘em up – it’s our annual Packer girls hockey preview

Your community news and information source

John E. Ahlstrom Staff Writer

t’s late November and Mother Nature has not yet given in to Old Man Winter. Bright sunshine and fall temperatures hang on perilously, but that does not conceal the fact that daily activities at Doug Woog Arena are ramping up. With 609 victories – the most in the history of prep girls hockey in Minnesota – head coach Dave Palmquist, his staff and team have begun their quest for a State title. Before we turn our attention to the 2023-24 season, it is appropriate to reflect briefly on last season. After the Packers earned a berth in the 2022 state tournament for a record 16th time, the 2023 team responded with a scintillating 23-6-1 regular season record. They didn’t stop there. With senior Delaney Norman in net, the Packers shutout Chisago Lakes 5-0 in the section 4A semi-finals. With a dominant 4-1 win over Simley in the section finals, the Packers stretched their record number of visits to the state tour-

nament to 17. They opened play with a 1-0 overtime victory over Fergus Falls. Next up was #1 seed Warroad. Coach Palmquist utilized his #1 defensive pairing to the fullest. Sophomore Lily Pachl and junior Annie Felton seldom came off the ice. The Packers were down just 2-1 in the third period before losing 4-1. “I was extremely proud of the manner in which we approached that game,” said Palmquist. “We quickly put it behind us and played a terrific game against #2 Proctor-Hermantown in the third-place game, and our 3-2 overtime victory avenged a 6-3 loss to them earlier in the season. It was a great win for our nine seniors.” The loss of those nine seniors to graduation certainly left a hole in the roster, but Palmquist does not dwell on that. He and his staff – Josh Palmquist, Mike Moline and Jamie Shepherd – are excited to interact with and coachup a group of players who come to practice every day eager to improve their skills. Junior captain Bailey Vesper – in her fifth season on

the varsity team and a veteran of three trips to the state tournament – will key the Packers’ first line as the left wing. Sophomore Addi Barone will play right wing, and sophomore Sidney Thompson center. “Bailey is a terrific player and leader and a key player on our power play,” said Palmquist. “Addi is one of our fastest players, and Sidney shares her enthusiasm and grit every time she steps on the ice.” Seventh grader Kira Erb is the left wing on the second line, senior captain Annie

Felton is the right wing and senior Eva Beck is the center. “Kira plays well beyond her years and her love of the game is evident,” said Palmquist. “Annie is an unselfish and polished leader and is a ‘put me wherever you need me’ player. Eva is a quiet leader who can really shoot the puck.” Junior All-State defenseman Lily Pachl and ninth grader Liberty Felton anchor the first defensive pairing. Ninth grader Julia Burgos Frias and 8th grader Keira Furman are set as the second pairing.

“Lily is a fabulous player and a team player and has already accepted a scholarship to play hockey at Harvard in 2025. She and Liberty are a natural pairing,” said Palmquist. “Julia and Keira are young, but both of them are tough, good skaters and have a great future.” Of course, the biggest hole to fill for the Packers in 2023 is the goaltender. Delaney Norman owns most of the Packer goaltender records and is now exhibiting her skills at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, Minn. Senior captain Molly Jeffrey opened the season as the starter in net and validated her skills with a 4-0 shutout in Game 2 at Delano. According to Palmquist, two eighth graders – Reagan Tracy and Amelia Frederick – are polishing their craft daily and have bright futures ahead of them. A quintet of forwards who are likely to make contributions along the way include sophomores Kieran Jeffrey and Jordyn Dybsetter, 9th graders Haley Rohrer and Kalia Buckmaster, and 8th grader Elizabeth Bremer.

Luther Memorial Church

Clark Memorial United Church

408 3rd St. N. 651-455-1302 holytrinitysspmn.org •

779 15th Ave. N. 651-451-7278 clarkgraceucc.org •

First Presbyterian 535 20th Ave. N. 651-451-6223 fpcssp.org •

St. Sava Serbian Orthodox church 357 2nd Ave. S. 651-451-0775 www.stsavamn.org •

Woodbury Lutheran Wakota Ridge Campus

140 6th Ave. N. 651-455-0777 •

Grace Lutheran Church 149 8th Ave. S. 651-451-1035 grace-ssp.org

Page 4 - South St. Paul Voice - December 2023

Dec. 12 - Visitation Dec. 16 - Proctor/Hermantown (1 p.m.) Dec. 19 - St. Paul/Two Rivers Dec. 28, 29, 30 - Kaposia Classic Jan. 2 - Simley Jan. 6 - Cloquet/Esko/ Carlton (1 p.m.) Jan. 9 - North/Tartan Jan. 16 - Chisago Lakes Jan. 19 - Hastings

Catholic church 749 6th Ave. S. 651-455-1302 holytrinitysspmn.org •

St. Augustine’s Catholic Church

South St. Paul Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist

Home schedule

Games are at 7 p.m. at Doug Woog Arena, unless noted

Holy Trinity Catholic Church

315 15th Ave. N. 651-451-2400 luther-memorial.com •

255 W. Douglas St. 651-739-5144 woodburylutheran.org •

Team assessment: The nine seniors who were on the roster in 2022-23 were the most in Coach Palmquist’s 30 years at the helm. There are only four seniors on the 2023-24 team but all are leaders who will make their presence known. This season there are nine junior high kids on the varsity roster, which bodes well for the future. What we know for sure is that come late January, the Packers will be firmly in the hunt for their 18th trip to the State tournament in February.

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789 17th Ave. N. 651-451-1863 info@sjvssp.org •

Sf. Stefan Romanian Orthodox Church 350 5th Ave. N. 651-451-3462 sfantulstefan.org •

St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church 501 6th Ave. S. 651-455-8947 stmarymn.org

H oliday Event Guide Holiday events from page 1 and artistic choreography. Breakfast with Santa The South St Paul Lion’s Club is hosting Breakfast with Santa 9- 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 9 at Lincoln Center Elementary, 357 9th Ave. N. Cost is $6 for adults and $4 for students. Ages six and under are free. The Southwest Lioness Club will also host a holiday craft station during the event. GLOW Holiday Festival - CHS Field is transformed into a winter wonderland through December 31. The GLOW festival features more than a million lights, a 60-foot-tall tree, Charity Flame, and much more. Visitors can hang out at sElfie Plaza, meet Santa, enjoy a 150-foot tube slide and 300-foot zipline, play on the Penguin Playground, navigate the Reindeer Run maze, roast up a tasty treat at Smores Stations and more. Tickets are $20.75 for adults, $12.75 for children ages 3-12, and must be purchased in advance at glowholiday. com. Some activities have an additional cost. Entry times are reserved every hour starting at 5 p.m. each night. Ticket holders can enter at any time within the allotted hour and stay as long as they like. The last reserved entry time is 8 p.m. and GLOW closes at 9 p.m.

Union Depot Hub for the Holiday events at the Union Depot, 214 4th St. E., St. Paul: European Christmas Market, weekends though December 17, on the East Plaza. Visitors can shop for handmade crafts from more than 70 local vendors, drink Glühwein (spiced mulled wine), taste European inspired delicacies, enjoy live entertainment and participate in family-friendly activities. New this year is Santa’s Village, which features vendors, craft stations, a holiday ride and Santa’s Post Office. Commemorative mugs, including a special 10th Anniversary edition and one designed exclusively for children, will be available. Admission is free. The event is based on the festive open-air Christkindl Markets that spring up in Germany, Austria and other European countries during the Advent season. Hours are 4-9 p.m., Fridays; 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturdays; and 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sundays. It will be open until 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10. Tree Lighting and Movie Night, 5-9 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2. Free. Attendees should gather in the waiting room at 5 p.m. for free cider, craft stations, light-up wand giveaways for kids, the St. Paul Winter Carnival 2023 button reveal and more. The

Your community news and information source Mistletones will present a holiday concert at 5:30 p.m. Tree lighting is at 7 p.m. in the North Plaza, followed by fireworks and a holiday sing-along. The movie “Elf ” is presented at 7:30 p.m., in the waiting room. Some chairs are available but visitors are encouraged to bring blankets for seating. Holiday Bake Sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, in the waiting room. Free. Shop from more than 30 local bakery and food vendors and enjoy musical performances. Free gift bags are given to the first 200 people to arrive. The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train, 5-8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 10. The train shows up at 7 p.m. and features a 45-minute concert. Arrive early for holiday shopping and to view model trains. Visitors will have a chance to receive giveaways. Free.

James J. Hill House Holidays on the Hill Tours are held December 1-31 at the James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul. Check out both floors of the 1910 Gilded Age mansion of railroad titan James J. Hill. Admission includes self-guided access

The European Christmas Market is held weekends though December 17 on the East Plaza at Union Depot. Shop more than 70 vendors. to holiday-themed exhibits and a 60-minute guided tour highlighting holiday stories and memories from the Hill family and their staff. Tours start every half-hour. The last one begins at 3:30 p.m. $20; free for ages 4 and under.

Cathedral Christmas market and concert The Cathedral of St. Paul will host a Christmas market 5-9:30 p.m., December 7-9. Marketplace tents will ring the perimeter of

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the Cathedral’s festively decorated courtyard at 239 Selby Ave. The Cathedral Gift Shop tent will sell “Cathedral Fox” gift items, plus a limited number of prints

of the famous photo taken by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore. Holiday events / Page 6

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St. John Vianney Church would like to wish you a most blessed and peaceful Christmas. Please join us in celebrating this holy season. MASS SCHEDULE:

Advent Day of Mercy

December 20, 8:00 am-6:30 pm

Christmas Eve Mass December 24 at 4 pm

Christmas Day Mass

December 25 at 8:30 am & 10:30 am

St. John Vianney Church

840 19th Ave. N, South Saint Paul 651-451-1863 | www.sjvssp.org

149 8th Ave. S., South St. Paul 651-451-1035 Advent Celebration Wednesday, December 13 - 4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Morning Worship 9:00 a.m. Candlelight Service 10:00 p.m. Christmas Day Celebration 10:00 a.m. New Year’s Eve Morning Worship 9:00 a.m. “To you is born a Savior, Christ the Lord!” South St. Paul Voice - December 2023 - Page 5

H oliday Event Guide

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Holiday events from page 5 The prints will include a message and signature from both Sartore and Fr. John L. Ubel, rector of the Cathedral of St. Paul who discovered the abandoned fox kit outside the Cathedral in 2021 and instigated rescue efforts. Other vendors will sell locally made gift items, food and drinks, including beer and hot mulled wine known as Glüwein. A variety of food trucks will be parked along Dayton Avenue. A warming tent with acoustic entertainment will offer a comfortable place to enjoy concessions, bid on silent auction items, or enter a raffle to win gift certificates from local merchants. Renowned pianist Steven C. will perform an hour of Christmas music inside the Cathedral 7-8:30 p.m., December 7 and 8. Concert admission is $10. For more details, visit cathedralheritagefoundation. org or call 651-300-6584.

Keg & Case Holiday Weekend Markets Schmidt Artists Lofts Holiday Market will not be held this year but Keg & Case Market, 928 W. Seventh St., St. Paul, is holding Holiday Weekend Markets noon-8 p.m., through December 25. Additionally, the Happy Land Tree Lot is open daily. Art House North Sara Groves Christmas Show, 7:30 p.m., December 15-16, at Art House North, 793 Armstrong Ave. W. Cookies from Brake Bread and coffee from Wildflyer will be available. Tickets start at $45. VIP tickets include priority seating, and admittance to an opening reception starting at 6 p.m. featuring acoustic music, pie and cider, a gift from Art House and a meet-and-greet with Groves. For details, visit arthousenorth.com/events. Wishing you and your family a happy holiday season. Thanks for supporting us and other local businesses!

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“A Hygge Holiday” is presented December 8-17 at the Big Top, located at 1270 Montreal Ave. A group of young people travel deep into the woods where they encounter mischievous mice, contorting cardinals, and tumbling lumberjacks, and ultimately discover that a comfy cabin and close friends are all that’s needed to kindle the spirit and warm the heart. Shows start at 7 p.m., Fridays, 1 and 5 p.m., Saturdays, and 1 p.m., Sundays. December 17 has an additional show at 5 p.m. Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for children 12 and younger and seniors 65 and up.

Open Window Theatre “Nicholas,” is presented Dec. 1-30 at Open Window Theatre, 5300 S. Robert Tr., Inver Grove Heights. This play dives into the inspiring story of the real-life Father Christmas, St. Nicholas of Myra, who lived during the 4th century. His adventurous life of faith, combined with his heroic generosity and humble service of the less fortunate, would eventually become the basis for our modern-day Santa Claus. This year, the play has a new scene and additional songs. Tickets start at $28, with discounts for students and seniors. For details, visit openwindowtheatre.org. Germanic American Institute

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The Holiday Flower Show is presented December 2-January 7, 2024 in the Sunken Garden at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul. This year’s show will feature red Ferrara and yellow Golden Glo poinsettias accented with yellow flowering kalanchoe and hand-selected tropical foliage. “Christmas in Germany” is held 11 a.m.-4 p.m., December 2-3, at the Germanic American Institute, 301 Summit Ave. This free, annual open haus gives visitors the chance to experience some of the traditions of German Christmas. Taste Lebkuchen cookies baked by the GAI Damenklub, drink Haus brewed Glühwein (mulled wine), listen to German carols sung by the Minnesänger Chorus and more. Seasonal goods will be sold in a heated tent by various vendors, Weihnachtsmarkt style. This year also features German model trains, crafts for children and an Alpaca petting zoo. St. Nikolaus will make an appearance noon-2 p.m. each day. For more information, visit gaimn.org and search “Christmas.” Stammtisch Christmas Lunch is held Tuesday, Dec. 12, at the GAI, and features beef Rouladen with mashed potatoes, red cabbage and a festive Jägertorte (cranberry

hazelnut torte). Guests can receive the meal via curbside pick-up between 11:30 a.m.noon, or dine at the Haus and enjoy a short holiday program beginning at 12:15 p.m. Tickets are $20 for curbside pickup and $25 for in-person. In-person tickets include one beer, wine or soft drink. Registration is required by Dec. 6.

O’Shaughnessy Auditorium The auditorium is located at St. Catherine University, 204 Randolph Ave., St. Paul. St. Paul Ballet presents “The Nutcracker Reimagined,” 7 p.m., December 1, and 2 and 7 p.m., December 2. Pay what you can; suggested adult donation of $35. “Katie McMahon’s Celtic Christmas 2023,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 8. Enjoy traditional Christmas carols, stories and lively Irish dance. McMahon will be joined on stage by her band, singers and the Rince na Chroí Irish Dancers. $5-$29.

“Kevin Kling and Friends: Tales from the Charred Underbelly of the Yule Log,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9. $5-33. Ballet Minnesota presents “The Classic Nutcracker,” 7 p.m., December 15; and 2 p.m., December 16-17. $5-45.

Ballet Co.Laboratory West Side-based Ballet Co.Laboratory presents “Nutcracker in Wonderland,” Dec. 8-10 at The Cowles Center for Dance & the Performing Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. This performance weaves together E.T.A. Hoffman’s “The Nutcracker” and Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland.” Clara and Alice begin to fall in love as they join forces on a journey of selfdiscovery and meet characters such as the Rat Queen, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts. Tickets start at $30. A virtual performance will also be offered. For tickets for the virtual

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Page 6 - South St. Paul Voice - December 2023

• Learn about the origins and traditions associated with holiday cookies and the plants that become the various spices and extracts used to flavor these seasonal favorites. • Sample various cookies, including America’s first Christmas cookie • Decorate your own cookies to take home.

H oliday Event Guide performance, call the Ballet Co.Laboratory Box Office at 651-313-5967.

City of St. Paul Holiday events take place on select dates at rec centers across St. Paul December 7-21. Most events are free, but registration is required. For more information, visit stpaul.gov and search “winter events.” Holiday Party, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 7, at Palace Community Center, 781 Palace Ave. The event features food, music, games and more. Dinner with Santa, 5:307 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, at Duluth and Case Recreation Center, 1020 Duluth St. Families can enjoy food, crafts and a visit from Santa. Community Holiday Dinner, 6-7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 12, at Hazel Park Recreation Center, 645 Hazel St. N. Families can enjoy a light dinner (while food supplies last) and holiday activities. Dayton’s Bluff Holiday Event, 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 13. This free family event features food, face painting, arts and crafts, games, music and more.

Once Upon a Holiday Movie Night, 6:30-8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 14, at Phalen Recreation Center, 1000 Wheelock Parkway E. Visitors can wear their pajamas and bring their blankets. Hot chocolate and snacks will be provided. Winter Wonderland, 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 14, at North Dale Recreation Center, 1414 St. Albans St. N. Visitors can take part in activities and enjoy a visit from Santa. Geared for youth age 12 and under. Parent Night Out, 6-9 p.m., Friday, Dec. 15, at El Rio Vista Recreation Center, 179 Robie St. E. Parents can drop off their kids and do some last-minute shopping. Kids will be entertained with gym time, games, snacks and a movie. $9. Santa’s Workshop, 5:307:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 19, at Battle Creek Recreation Center, 75 Winthrop St. S. Kids ages 6-17 will be able to purchase and wrap gifts for their parents, siblings or friends. All gifts will be under $1. Limit of $10 per child. Parents must stay in a waiting area while their child is in the workshop.

Your community news and information source Holiday Express, 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 21, at Phalen Recreation Center, 1000 Wheelock Parkway E. Take a picture with Santa, enjoy a cookie and some cocoa, ice skate, and take home a craft.

Holiday parade Santa’s Holiday Hero Express Parade, 5:30-7:50 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 7. Santa and his helpers visit the streets of West St. Paul with an escort by West St. Paul Police, South Metro Fire and other public safety vehicles. If your home is not on the route, head over to the Harmon Park parking lot (the stalls along Bernard Street have the best view) to see and wave to Santa. To find the parade route, visit wspmn.gov and search “Santa’s holiday hero express parade.” Lowertown Santacon Lowertown Santacon pub crawl returns Saturday, Dec. 16. Stops include: Union Depot East Plaza, 240 East Kellogg Blvd., 7-8 p.m.; Big River Pizza, 280 5th St E., 8-10 p.m.; and MetroNOME, 385 Broadway St., 10 p.m.-close.

“It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” is presented December 8-23 at the St. Paul Hotel. The classic 1946 Frank Capra film “It’s a Wonderful Life” has been adapted into a radio drama for the stage. The performances feature actors and sound effects to help guide audience imagination. Tickets start at $105 and include a 3-course meal. Performances are at 1 and 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, and 1 and 6 p.m., Sundays. To reserve tickets, call 651-228-3860 or visit www.saintpaulhotel.com. Visitation School ’Vis the Season is held 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2, at Visitation School, 2455 Visitation Dr., Mendota

Heights. Shop for holiday gifts from local vendors at the marketplace, meet Santa and join his story time, and enjoy complimentary face painting and a holiday-

themed cakewalk. The event features food trucks and beverages, and an “Elfie” booth for photos.

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S ample St. Paul

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

45th Annual Old-Fashioned Holiday Bazaar, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., November 30; 10 a.m.-7 p.m., December 1; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., December 2. The event features gift items handcrafted by area artists, including jewelry, woodwork, paintings, décor, woven and wearable art, handmade lotions, soaps and more. Includes festive music and treats. $5. Santa’s Workshop, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 10. Take a photo with Santa, play games and make gifts, and enjoy readings of classic children’s Christmas stories. Free. Star of the North Con-

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cert Band, 7:30-9 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 13. Free. Landmark Live featuring The OK Factor, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 15. Tickets are $20 online and $25 at the door. A cocktail hour with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar begins at 6:45 p.m. Minnesota Mandolin Orchestra, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 17. Music will include pop, classical and more. Free. Schubert Club’s Museum Mini, 10:30 a.m., Monday, Dec. 4. Bridget Kibbey will teach about the harp in this 15-minute interactive session available at schubert. org. Free. Songs of the Season, noon and 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 14. This free concert by the Schubert Club features carols by Minnesotan composers.

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acceleration through 10 interactive stations. Other exhibits and activities include “The Scramble,” “The Studio,” “Creativity Jam,” “Sprouts,” “Our World,” “Forces at Play,” “Shipwreck Adventures” and “Imaginopolis.” Tickets are $14.95. Admission is free the first Sunday of each month; reservations are required and tickets are limited. The next free date is Dec. 3.

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

“The Life & Art of Charles M. Schulz” is featured through June 9, 2024. Explore Schulz’s roots in Minnesota and his role as the creator of the “Peanuts” comic strip and its beloved cast of characters. “Reframing our Stories,” is a new addition to the “Our Home: Native America” exhibit. It’s on display through October 2025 and features dozens of recently discovered historic photos of Native Americans and stories about them as told by Native people. MERRIAM PARK

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“I Am Betty” is presented at the History Theatre.

“Our Home: Native Minnesota” features historic and contemporary photographs, maps and artifacts. Learn how Minnesota’s native communities have retained cultural practices, teachings and values. Other exhibits include “Minnesota’s Greatest Generation,” “Then Now Wow,” “Grainland” and “Weather Permitting.” Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students, and $8 for children ages five to 17.

History Theatre 30 E. 10th St. St. Paul 651-292-4323 Historytheatre.com

“I Am Betty” is presented on select dates November 25-December 23. Discover the story of Betty Crocker, a fictional character that has been admired and scorned for a century as people grapple with questions regarding women’s role in American society. Tickets start at $30, with discounts for students.

MN Museum of American Art 350 Robert St. N. St. Paul 651-797-2571 mmaa.org

“Hazel Belvo: For Love,” is a new exhibit in the Nancy and John Lindahl Gallery. It features more than 60 pieces of artwork from Hazel Belvo’s 70-year career as an artist. It is on display 10 a.m.STATE FARM 4 p.m., Thursday-Sunday, Stremski through MayAgency 24, 2024. Livingston “El1560 Vaiven,” is Ave. a new Suite 101, West Paul installation in theSt. skyway windows above Robert Street Hogar and in Skyway 28 over WaAutomóvil bashaSeguro Street at de 4th Vida Street in downtown St. Paul. Created by651-457-6348 Zamara Cuyún, it’s a dreamscape based on a real Mayan landscape in Guatemala. It features a series of characters including Gucumatz, the feathered serpent, and Ixchel, the moon goddess.

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chestra concerts: Corelli’s Christmas Concerto, 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2; Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos, 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9; Handel’s Messiah, 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16, and 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 17. Tickets start at $12 for all concerts. Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs, 1:30 and 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 3. Free. “Peter Pan,” Dec. 6-31. A new take on the high-flying Broadway musical. Tickets start at $46. Sons of Serendip, 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 14. Tickets start at $28. “Pagnia in Love: Live in Concert,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 15. Tickets start at $96.01. Christmas with Cantus: Three Tales of Christmas, 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 22. Tickets start at $25.

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Palace Theatre Holiday Market, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., December 9, and 11 a.m.-4 p.m., December 10. Take to the theater’s stage to shop for handcrafted gifts and goods from more than 50 local vendors. Free.

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30th St. Paul Ice Fishing & Winter Sports Show, 1-8 p.m., December 1; 10 a.m.7 p.m., December 2; and 9 a.m.-4 p.m., December 3. Shop for ice fishing equipment and other products from more than 180 vendors. Single day tickets are $15 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-12. Minnesota Roller Derby, 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16. General admission tickets are $16 in advance or $18 on game day. Free for children age 9 and under with an adult.

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

Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed is returning to the Science Museum for the first time since its debut in 2013. It’s on display through September 4, 2024. Presented in English and Spanish, it features more than 200 authentic artifacts, hands-on activities, lifelike simulations and more. Green Card STEM Voices is a temporary exhibit on display in the Community Gallery through the end of the year. Learn about the life journeys of 30 Afghan youth. Stellar Tours Live Digital Telescope Show, Wed.Sun. at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Choose your own space adventure and experience the Omnitheater’s new Digistar 7 projection system. Omnitheater tickets are $9.95. Free for children ages 3 and under. Omnitheater films: “Jane Goodall: Reasons for Hope,” through February 29, 2024. Follow the world’s most famous living ethologist as she inspires people to make a difference in the world around them. “Recombination,” 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays. The film features the work of fractal artist Julius Horsthuis and seven of his favorite musicians. Museum tickets are $29.95 for ages 18+ and $19.95 for ages 4-17.

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Disney on Ice presents Find Your Hero, 7 p.m., December 7; 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., December 8; 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., December 9, and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., December 10. Tickets start at $20. Trans-Siberian Orchestra, 3 and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 30. Tickets start at $49.75.

B ack in Time

Your community news and information source

The nation’s first cheerleader had SSP roots Tim Spitzack Editor

ttend most any sporting event – from junior high on up to the pros – and you’ll find a cadre of enthusiastic people on the sidelines rousing fans to cheers, chants and spirited dance moves and acrobatic throws. Interestingly, the first cheerleader in the United States was a man who would become one of South St. Paul’s most prominent citizens. Johnny Campbell is hailed by many as the nation’s first cheerleader. It all began in 1898 when he was a medical student at the University of Minnesota. The football team was struggling that year and the campus news-

paper chided the school’s fans for not knowing how to support their team. As a result, a public meeting was held to discuss the issue. At the meeting, Campbell suggested that the team needed someone to lead “yells and songs” to ignite the crowd and pump up the team. Everyone agreed and pointed to him as the man to take on the task. Campbell accepted and made his debut at the Nov. 2, 1898, game against Northwestern. It was there that Campbell first stood before the crowd and chanted “Rah, Rah, Rah! Sku-u-mar, Hoo-Rah! Hoo-Rah! Varsity! Varsity! Varsity, Minn-e-SoTah!” Apparently, his efforts proved to be just what the team needed. The Gophers won the game 17-6, and the

Postscript

A Thanksgiving Prayer I have always liked Thanksgiving. I know its origins are dubious. I cringe a little when I think about the construction paper American Indian costumes and the happy story I learned as a child about that first Thanksgiving. I cringe a little more when I read about people missing their holiday meal so they can work at retail jobs where customers trample one another at the store’s entrance to get in and buy things. I don’t understand this, I must confess. I have never been in such a hurry to buy anything

Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com

in my life. But even if the mythology of Thanksgiving is a little suspect and the current traditions can be a little crass, I like Thanksgiving because I cannot dislike a day dedicated to feeling thankful.

cheerleading movement was born. Cheerleading has come a long way since then. In the early days, cheers were led predominantly by males, many of whom were former players. This continued until the early 1940s, when throngs of young men were drafted into the Armed Forces during World War II. It was then that women took over the role, and within 20 years females would come to dominate cheerleading. Ironically, South St. Paul Public Schools does not have a cheerleading program today. According to Kris Nihart with the Activities office, the program disbanded in 2001 due to declining interest. The high school does have a school song, though.

It’s called the Packer Fight Song and it goes like this: Stand up and cheer Stand up and cheer for our Kaposia Pledge your loyalty; For it’s our high school name so dear Our team are fighting; And we will help to see them through We’ve got the team rah rah; We’ve got the steam rah rah So our Kaposia here’s to you! K-A-P-O-S-I-A Fight, Kaposia Fight!

My first Thanksgivings were spent at the farmhouse where my mother grew up. If I had to put my finger on the moment that made it Thanksgiving, I would say it happened in the stillness – after all the food had been piled onto the big dining room table, and grandma (for just a moment) had her apron off, and the cousins (for just a moment) had been herded together into some sort of group, and everyone (for the one and only time all day) had fallen more or less quiet. Then we would sing the blessing. My mother’s family had a lot of good singers in it, sisters who played the piano and sang harmony in church. And so someone, an aunt I am sure, would begin: “Be present at our table,

Lord.” We didn’t ask for help, or intercession or forgiveness. We just asked the God we believed in to be there with us. “Be here and everywhere adored.” And not just with us. We asked for God’s presence to be everywhere it was welcomed. “These mercies bless and grant that we...” We asked for all this abundance to be blessed – everything on our table and in our hearts, and everyone standing there beside us, singing in the farmhouse. Then, in my family, we concluded: “May strengthened for Thy service be.” I have since learned there are several ways to finish this prayer. The more common ending is: “May live in fellowship with Thee.” Some families

Perhaps it’s time to hold a public meeting to discuss the need to bring back a group of students to lead this song and other cheers at future Packer games. I think Campbell would agree.

Whatever happened to Campbell? After graduating with his medical degree, he opened his practice in South St. Paul by 1902 and later served as the city’s health officer for many years. His practice was located at 203 N. Concord St. and he and his family

lived in a large house at 152 Third Ave. S. He continued to be an ardent Gopher fan and could be seen at games – cowbell in hand – for nearly 40 years. Sadly, Campbell was killed in an auto accident on Nov. 23, 1936, while driving in a blizzard to visit a patient.

sing, “May feast in Paradise with Thee.” But my mother’s family was a Swedish farming family, and we asked for strength to keep on working. Feasting in Paradise might have been fine for some, but that was a little more than any of us could imagine. Asking for strength so we could keep on doing what we had been doing seemed like a pretty safe bet and, perhaps, not too much to ask. Then we sang “Amen,” and we ate. There were many more people than chairs, so the cousins sat on the stairway, and the aunts squeezed side by side on the couch, and some uncles ate standing up – despite my grandmother’s repeated warnings that this would lead to fat feet. And the table would

be filled with enough pies to nearly cover its surface, served with whipped cream and weak coffee. And a cold wind would rattle the last stubborn leaves hanging on the trees, reminding us that colder days were ahead. And so, even though I am many miles away from my family and years away from that farmhouse, I am going to sing today. “Be present at our table, Lord, Be here and everywhere adored. These mercies bless and grant that we May strengthened for Thy service be.” Because it’s a simple request, and a good one. Till next time.

3 easy ways to support your community newspaper St. Paul Voice • Downtown St. Paul Voice • South St. Paul Voice • La Voz Latina

Our publishing company exists to foster a sense of community through informative news articles, interesting and inspiring feature articles, and valuable advertising. We ask for your support in helping us achieve our mission. Here are three ways you can support your family-owned community newspaper. 1. Subscribe to our FREE e-editions for expanded coverage. When you request our FREE e-editions, you will receive one email a month with a link to our four different publications. We won’t contact you more than that, and your information will not be sold or shared with third parties. Request our e-editions at info@stpaulpublishing.com. This is an easy, no-cost way to show you care about community journalism. 2. Subscribe to our printed editions. Get every issue mailed to your home or business for just $25/year per publication. To subscribe, mail your check to St. Paul Publishing Co., 1643 S. Robert St., Suite 60B, West St. Paul, MN 55118, or call 651-457-1177 with your credit card number. Please be sure to include the full name and mailing address for delivery, as well as your phone number. 3. Make a voluntary contribution. Join the many loyal readers who have made a voluntary contribution of $10 to $100 or more to help us achieve our purpose. Thank you for your support!

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South St. Paul Voice - December 2023 - Page 9

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season. Holiday Gift Program: Neighbors’ annual Holiday Gift Program is in full swing. This program makes wishes come true for more than 750 children and seniors in our community. Each year, generous donors and dedicated staff and volunteers come

together to make the season brighter for our neighbors that need it most. Donors are anonymously matched with a family/senior in need to purchase gift items and are given individualized “wish lists” with gift suggestions from recipients. Donors return their gifts to Neighbors, where the recipients can pick them up prior to the gift-giving season. Thank you to all of our donors and volunteers for making this program possible. It’s A Wonderful Life benefit performance: Kickoff your holiday season with a special performance of a classic tale set at the beautiful St. Paul Hotel. The cast will transport you back in time as you watch the story

as if it were a radio broadcast from the 1940s. Bring your friends and family for this memorable night. All proceeds from this event benefit Neighbors. For more information, visit: neighborsmn. org/event/its-a-wonderfullife. Clothes Closet/Thrift Store: Before Thanksgiving arrives, our volunteers are busy filling our store with beautiful holiday clothing and decorations that have been collected throughout the year. You will find something special for everyone, from festive dresses, Christmas pajamas, and unique and special merchandise perfect for the season. We even have your “ugly sweater”

needs covered. This, together with holiday music, sparkling lights, and sweets and cookies (made by our amazing volunteers) sets up the festive spirit. Please stop by soon to celebrate with us and find those unique gifts for your friends and family, and something special for you too. Also, don’t miss out on finding great deals during our holiday sales. Hunger Relief Programming: We look forward to decorating our food shelf in festive ways to brighten the shopping experience. Traditional holiday foods are often available and truly help our community enjoy the holiday season with their loved ones.

Again, we wish to thank our incredible community for your support of Neighbors’ mission. If you are looking for other ways to provide support this holiday season, here are a few suggestions to consider: organize a holiday food drive, take part in a “Mission Booster” group volunteer activity or consider a financial donation to support Neighbors’ work. We wish you and your family an incredible holiday season! As always, I’d love to connect. You may reach me at dawn@neighborsmn.org, 651-272-1135 or just by stopping in. Stay connected with Neighbors’ latest updates at neighborsmn.org.

Happy Holidays! It’s the season for holiday memories, sights, smells and traditions. Holiday cookies, treasured ornaments, special gatherings, and holiday light-viewing trips are just a few traditions celebrated by many. We all have special holiday memories and traditions, regardless of the holiday we are celebrating.

Traditions, new or old, have a strong place in our hearts. They become an essential part of how we celebrate. We hold on to holiday traditions because they add meaning to our celebrations and help us connect with our families and our community. The community of South St. Paul has a variety of holiday traditions. Who is not

excited to see the snowflakes and the snowflake banners go up on Southview Boulevard and the holiday lights strung up around town, or to learn of the holiday celebrations in the community? How many have bundled up and visited the South St. Paul Lions Club Tree lot and picked the perfect Christmas tree to decorate,

or attended the Lions Club Breakfast with Santa, having delicious pancakes and sitting on Santa’s lap telling him what they want for Christmas? And how many have strapped on skates at the Annual Holiday Skate or outdoor rinks, or sledded down Jefferson Hill? A South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force tradition

continues this year with sending Jingle Grams, positive messages that can be sent to anyone in the community that offer a message of encouragement, happy news, or simply to wish someone a good day or a Happy Holiday. The messages will be placed in festive holiday bags along with some fun and tasty holiday treats. Jingle Grams forms are available at www.southstpaul.org (on the event’s calendar), at South St. Paul City Hall, 125 3rd Ave. N., or by contacting Deb Griffith at deb.griffith@southstpaul. org or 651-554-3230. Return your completed form to City Hall, along with a donation to the Mayor’s Youth Task Force, and task force elves will deliver it on Saturday, Dec. 18. Each gram is $6, or two for $10. All proceeds benefit the activities hosted by the South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force throughout the year. Happy Holidays from the South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force. We hope you make wonderful memories and enjoy your special traditions this holiday season.

Neighbors, Inc. Dawn Wambeke President & CEO

Neighbors is excited to be entering the holiday season. We are grateful to the community for your incredible support in bringing this beautiful season to life for those we are honored to serve. Please find the many ways we are looking forward to celebrating this amazing

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C ommunity

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Not so merry? Help is available.

The holiday season spurs stress for some. The sparkly lights, shopping mall sprints, and singers insisting it is the most wonderful time of the year can actually make it the most difficult time of year for many people. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), 60 percent of Americans feel their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays and 64 percent of people with mental illness say the holidays make their conditions worse.

Joe Atkins

Dakota County Commissioner

For Dakota County, this means an increase in mental health calls and crises. Regardless of the time of year, resources are available

to assist individuals and families before a situation becomes a mental health and/or public safety crisis. Call 211. If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health issues or other health concerns, such as lack of housing or substance use problems, call 211. Calls are confidential, answered any time of the day or night, and language interpreters are available. You are not alone in making that call. Dakota County residents made more than 7,500 calls to the 211 helpline last year. Regardless of who you contact, it’s important to know that reach-

ing out to others for help is okay. Crisis Response Unit. The county’s Crisis Response Unit (952-891-7171) can also provide help to individuals and families in need. Trained staff connect people to emergency therapy, care providers and other assistance that someone might need during a difficult time in their life. Veterans and military personnel. It is common for veterans to turn to counties with their mental health or substance use concerns. Fortunately, there are many resources specifically for veter-

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ans, and our team can guide them to the help they need. Veterans can connect with a Veterans Service Officer by calling 651-554-5601. Coordinating with first responders. First responders often are called to assist people in crisis. While first responders receive training to handle mental health-related incidents, social workers often have more specific training and connections to resources. To provide the most effective public service to those who experience a crisis, Dakota County mental health professionals pair with law enforcement in South St. Paul, West St. Paul and eight other cities across the county. This coordinated response with local police makes responding to mental health calls more effective and safer for all involved. Partnering with schools and parents. The Dakota County Collaborative is a children’s mental health and family services partnership that establishes a system of care for children. Partners include parents, community agencies, schools and county staff. In schools in South St. Paul, West St. Paul and Mendota Heights, this includes the 360 Communities organization that works with school staff to identify and assist struggling students, enhance attendance, and increase graduation rates. Places to help. In northern Dakota County, we created Aspen House in Mendota Heights, which provides a safe place for kids in crisis to stay and get help. Under construction in West St. Paul is our Crisis and Recovery Center, a 16-bed facility for adults. In Inver Grove Heights, Dakota County’s grant-funded Safety and Mental Health Alternative Response and

Training (SMART) Center teaches first responders the most effective techniques in crisis intervention and deescalation. This enhances the safety of everyone involved in high-stress situations that often involve mental health issues. Constructed in 2021, the SMART Center has emerged as a preeminent training facility, not just for our local first responders but for those across Minnesota and the Midwest. Libraries. Dakota County Library offers mental health information. We offer a “Good Books for Tough Topics” collection in each library’s teen area that features fiction and nonfiction books dealing with mental health, anxiety, depression and other related topics. This is a way to help young people learn about age-appropriate resources without having to ask questions directly to an adult. Parks and trails. Scores of studies show that time spent outdoors and exercising are good for physical health as well as mental health. Dakota County Parks offer programs that can help users reconnect with nature. Other resources. There are many resources for people who want to learn about mental health. The county website provides information on resources for youth, adults, veterans and the elderly. You can access those by visiting www.dakotacounty.us and searching mental health. Joe Atkins represents District 2 on the Dakota County Board, which includes South St. Paul, West St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights. He welcomes feedback. To share comments, concerns or questions, email him at Joe.Atkins@ co.dakota.mn.us or call 651438-4430.

Now Accepting Now Accepting Applications Applications

Summer and School-year Positions School-year Positions Available Available

PARAPROFESSIONAL - Work with students assisting classroom

Annual Percentage Yields (APYs) are effective as of 11/01/2023 and subject to change without notice. Rates may change after the account is opened. Your actual APY may vary based on your actual account balance and activity during your statement cycle. 2Advertised introductory interest rates and APYs are fixed for 12 months after the account is opened. After introductory period, the rate may change. Limit one promotional account per customer. Minimum balance to obtain the APY is $25,000.00. Requires new money not already on deposit with MidWestOne Bank. Matured MidWestOne Certificates of Deposit can be deposited into this account and will qualify as new money. The bank reserves the right to deny deposit accounts over $5,000,000.00. See a Personal Banker for current rates and account terms. Minimum balance to avoid $10.00 service fee is $25,000.00. Fees could reduce earnings. 3National average APY is 0.42% and represents the average of the $2,500.00 product tier as of June 20, 2023, as calculated by the FDIC. Certain exclusions apply.

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teachers, before/after-school child care OR supervise groupsin of a classroom Paraprofessional - Work with students students. Full and Part-time positions available. Starting base wage assisting before/after-school child care OR $19.63 perteachers, hour (DOQ). supervise groups of students. Full-time or part-time. BUS DRIVERS - Safely transport students to and from school. Starting wage $19.63/hr. (DOQ). Starting base base wage up to $22.90 per hour (DOQ). Paid training and certification. BusCDL Drivers - Safely transport students to and from NUTRITION SERVICES - Prepare serve breakfast and lunch Starting for school. Paid training &and CDL certification. wage students. Starting base wage $16.50 per hour. $25.00/hr. (DOQ). CUSTODIAN - Perform cleaning, event setup and clean up, and Nutrition Services - Prepare and serve breakfast and ensure safety of buildings. Full and part-time positions available. Full-time base wage $21.76 per hour. Part-time/seasonal lunch for starting students. Starting base wage $16.50/hr. base wage starting at $16.80 per hour (DOQ). Custodian - Perform cleaning, event set-up/cleanKIDS CLUB SUPERVISOR - Lead our Club Program Full-time (school-age starting up, and ensure safety ofKids buildings. child care) in one of our elementary buildings. Supervise base wage $21.76/hr. Part-time and seasonal starting paraprofessional staff. Full-time, 12-month position. Starting base wage is $21.50 per hour (DOQ). base wage $16.80/hr. (DOQ). For more information and to Kids Club Supervisor - Lead aapply: school-age child care sowashco.org/careers program in one of our EOE elementary buildings and supervise paraprofessional staff. Full-time, 12-month. Starting base wage $21.50/hr. (DOQ). For more information and to apply: sowashco.org/careers

EOE