South St. Paul Voice April 2024

Black Sheep to reopen under new ownership

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting down Southview Boulevard isn’t part of your imagination. No, it’s coming from Black Sheep Coffee, which closed last May but is slated to reopen in April under new ownership. In recent weeks the owner and manager have been entrenched in the kitchen, testing new equipment and preparing the space to welcome people back.

The new owner is Jason Frankot, who has operated his All State Insurance agency across the street from Black Sheep for five years. For 10 years before that, his agency was located in Cottage Grove, and even then he made a lunch trip daily to the cafe.

“I stopped at Black Sheep every day twice a day for the last 14 or 15 years,” said Frankot, who was born and raised in South St. Paul and still lives here with his wife Alissa, also a South St. Paul native. “It wasn’t just a store or café [for me]. There were a lot of community discussions there and it was a place people could go to do homework or just unwind and relax for a little bit…. We’re trying to bring all that back but have it be quicker [service] and updated.”

Black Sheep Coffee was founded 15 years ago by Kathy Middlecamp and had been largely managed by her son Peter, who is staying on in that

South St. Paul

Color Run comes to SSP

Budding flowers won’t be the only splashes of color ushering in spring this year. Vibrant clouds of colorful chalk will fill the air and cover the faces and bodies of runners and walkers in the South St. Paul Color Run 3K/5K, held Saturday, April 27 at Kaposia Landing.

The Color Run is all about fun. The event has been held across the world since 2012 and was originally inspired by the Hindu festival of Holi. This is the first time one has been held in South St. Paul. It is being organized by South St. Paul Parks and Recreation and the cost to participate is $10 for

individuals or $25 for families of six or less. Proceeds will support the city’s youth sports programming. All participants will receive a white “South St. Paul Color Run” t-shirt to wear during the race, which kicks off at 9 a.m. Both the 3K and 5K routes are a loop.

Here’s how it works. Volunteers and chosen spectators are equipped with bottles of chalk that they liberally spray at the runners and walkers so by the end of the run everybody is coated in a rainbow of colors.

“We’re going to spray color at the beginning and end [of the route],” said South St. Paul recreation specialist Heather Flock, who noted that safety glasses will be

EVENTS

Synchronized skating showdown comes to Doug Woog Arena

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

More than 300 competitors will take to the ice at Doug Woog Arena for the National Synchronized Skating Championships, held 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Saturday, April 6. Teams are coming from Texas, Missouri, Wisconsin and across Minnesota to compete and South St. Paul-based ice-skating school Blades N Motion has 20 skaters representing Doug Woog Arena. The day will also feature the second-ever MinneShowdown, offering teams additional opportunities to show their flair on the ice. Admission is free.

The National Synchronized Skating Championships – Synchro Champs for short – is one of five national events held by the Ice Sports Industry. It’s a recreational competition so placing well doesn’t qualify teams for any further opportunities, but is a nice feather in their cap. Some skaters who participated in Ice Sports Industry events in their youth have gone on to join the United States Figure Skating competitive program.

“They’re going to have some of the Showdown in the morning, the synchronized events in midafternoon, and then finish up with the rest of the Showdown,” said Blades N Motion founder and coach Barb Yackel. “People are going to see great skating anytime they’re able to come.”

Synchro Champs will see nine

City offers glimpse into projects happening in 2024

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

An ambitious mixed-use development in the Hardman Triangle area, the establishment of a new housing reinvestment fund and upgrades at Fleming Field were among the topics addressed during the annual state of the city address, held in early March.

The South St. Paul City Council used the meeting

to reflect on accomplishments of 2023 and offer a sneak peek at what’s in store for this year. The theme was “Do more in 2024.” Here are the highlights.

In 2023, the Economic Development Authority (EDA) chalked up another $23.5 million in new construction in the city, which is a top five record in the past 15 years. Among the developments were the construction of the Backyards

apartment complex and the Dakota County-owned Kaposia Library. The city also filled all tenant spaces at the Bridgepoint Business Park, and Luther Auto purchased the former manufacturing building at 490 Villaume Ave. and invested $4 million to make it an auto reconditioning center.

Looking ahead, Asian Mart, a multitenant specialty retail market, will break ground in April or

May at 464 South Concord Exchange and be complete this fall. The owner utilized the city’s low interest business development loan program – which is available to all existing and aspiring South St. Paul businesses – to complete necessary soil correction work. Black Sheep Coffee, now under new ownership, also utilized the program to renovate its building and upgrade its kitchen equipment.

Binder Heating and Air Conditioning will break ground this summer on a new facility at 110 Bridgepoint. It will be twice the size of its current building and include spaces for other businesses. It’s expected to be complete in summer 2025.

The Wakota Crossing redevelopment project near Verderosa Avenue South will begin this year and continue through 2025. With nearly $3 million in grant funding,

a 185,000 square-foot light industrial space south of I-494 will see significant soil correction so that it’s ready for future development. As a result, the community garden and compost site will be moved elsewhere.

The city is set to demolish the former Twin City Pallet Factory building at 139 Grand Ave. – located in the

Black Sheep / Page 2

Ice skating / Page 3

Color run / Page 2

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of The Color Run

Black Sheep

from page 1

role. Frankot knew Kathy was looking to retire, and when he saw a “For Sale” sign in the window, he immediately called and said he’d buy not only the building but the entire business. It took about seven months to close on the deal, but he finally got the keys at the end of November. Since then, he’s been diligently working to restore the building.

“At first we’ll probably be open Friday through Sunday to work out the kinks and then we’ll ramp up from there,” said Frankot.

Most of the major projects involved plumbing, electrical and drywall installation,

but the entire 45-seat public area has been refreshed as well. Improvements included restoring the original walnut floors, adding new lighting, decor and a fresh coat of paint, and mounting electronic menus that show what’s in stock. The entire water filtration system was also replaced.

Frankot also upgraded the kitchen with new equipment from Germany. Now, they can grind beans in four seconds where it used to take 27, and the upgraded machines better brings out each coffee beans’ unique flavor profile, he said. Peter Middlecamp remains the

Color run

from page 1

coffee connoisseur.

“We’ll have all the drinks and baked goods and everything we’ve had in the past,” said Frankot. “It will be a few weeks until we offer food but it will probably come in a big way. We definitely want to expand and have more things than were here prior.” New sandwiches, salads and soups may be in the pipeline and Frankot said he’ll apply for a license to sell beer and wine. The shop will also have its coffee beans for sale, and people will be able to order directly through their website. Frankot is also thinking about occasionally bringing in sous chefs from other restaurants to cook for specialty dinner events, like a French cuisine or steakhouse night,

and he wants to be part of the Kaposia Days and On the Road Again celebrations.

“Not just by being open but by shutting the parking lot down and having a band or doing an outdoor wine or coffee tasting,” he said. The bluegrass band that formerly performed in the parking lot every Saturday in the summer is expected to return in some capacity, and acoustic musicians may also occasionally perform inside.

Frankot said he never drank coffee until his first child was born and that he only had to try Black Sheep once before becoming a regular. The drink that kept him hooked for 15 years is the caramel latte. For more information, visit blacksheepcoffee.com.

encouraged but people can sign up onsite from 7:308:30 a.m. A Nautical Bowls food truck and an ice cream truck will be present during the event.

Online registration is

available. “We’re also going to spray color throughout it if I can get groups of volunteers to stand at different corners of the route…. Most of the color will wash out of your shirt so we’re going to be offering a little station where you can spray your shirt down with a special formula so it will stay.” Participants may want to bring a towel to dust off with after the event because there will be no stations to rinse off.

One of the programs that will benefit from the proceeds is the South St. Paul Speedsters in Training, a 4-week program that trains youth ages 8-13 through games and team activities to complete a 5K. The Color

Run is, in fact, the grand finale to this year’s program. The event was spearheaded by Flock, who was hired last September. She has a bachelor’s in exercise and sports science and a master’s in sports administration from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and brings a wealth of experience as a former director of athletics, activities and fitness. Previously, she was campus recreation

director at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, and before that spent about 20 years as the aquatic director at the Red Wing YMCA. An avid runner, she said she’d like to hold a 3K/5K of some sort each year, likely in the spring.

“I’m a huge runner and I absolutely love doing this stuff,” she said. “I used to direct races in Red Wing, and I noticed they didn’t have one

[here in South St. Paul] and I thought this is perfect timing because we have a little break between Flannel Fest and our summer kick-off…. Students that don’t normally like to run will get out and run and be active just ’cause it’s such a fun day.”

To register or for more information, visit webtrac. southstpaul.org and search “color run.”

Ice skating

from page 1

teams of 8-32 skaters of any ages face off in two categories: short compulsory and long program. In short compulsory, each team must execute a variety of precise synchronized maneuvers including the circle, spoke, block, intersection and wheel. Each performance is typically 2-3 minutes long. The long program is a free skate with no required maneuvers; performances are usually around 4 minutes. Both categories allow teams to choose their own music and outfits. South St. Paul’s team consists of a group of adults who skated together as kids and decided to register for fun. They hadn’t had a practice as of press time, so be prepared to cheer extra loud if they win the event. Judging is done by a panel of 3-5 judges who give scores based on unison, technical difficulty, choreography, pattern and musicality. The top three teams will receive trophies and medals.

The MinneShowdown will see about 40 teams face off in ensemble and production

events as well as another team compulsory event. Production and ensemble events don’t have required maneuvers and are scored based on performance value. Skaters of all ages can compete in each, but ensemble can only have seven or fewer skaters.

Similar to Synchro Champs, teams can choose their own outfits and music, and performances are 2-4 minutes.

South St. Paul’s ensemble team is robot-themed, and the production team is money-themed. The winning teams will receive trophies and medals.

South St. Paul didn’t have any skaters at Synchro Champs or the MinneShowdown when they were hosted at Doug Woog Arena back in 2019 so this will be a good chance to show off their hard work to the community.

Dubbed “Team Woog,” the production and ensemble teams practice year-round and have skaters who participate in both events. The teams have some first-place finishes at local recreational events, including one in

Blaine in February and one in New Ulm in November.

Other Minnesota teams at the event will be from White

Bear Lake, Woodbury, Hastings and Blaine. For more information, visit skateisi.org.

Team Woog’s “Money” production team won first place at an ISI event in Blaine in February.

ity Government

State of the City

from page 1

Hardman Triangle – and use a predevelopment grant from the Met Council to create a refined site plan for an ambitious mixed use development featuring housing, restaurants and entertainment destinations.

The city is finalizing its comprehensive assessment of city owned buildings, many of which have significant is-

sues related to their age.

A request for proposal was recently issued for the former American Legion Library and city staff hope to explore options for the site this summer.

The city’s public works facility is over 50 years old and is more than 50% undersized so the city has requested funds from a state bonding bill to help replace it. They expect to hear by the end of the year if they get the funds. One building that has already been addressed was South Metro Fire Station #2, which had its roof fixed and saw interior upgrades in 2023.

Housing Reinvestment Fund

Last year the EDA established a Housing Reinvestment Fund to provide low interest loans to residents for a wide variety of home improvement projects such as additions, HVAC re -

placement, new windows and roofing. Those aged 55 or older may be eligible for loan deferral, meaning payment isn’t due and the loan doesn’t collect interest until the property is sold or is not used as the owner’s principal residence.

Road work

The multi-year Concord Street project was completed in 2023, and 7th Avenue and 2nd Street were reconstructed along with utility, pedestrian and parking improvements.

Concord Exchange will be reconstructed this summer from Grand Avenue to 6th Street East, and improvements will be done to utilities in the area, including the sewer and watermain which date to 1978. Sidewalk reconstruction will also take place from 6th Street East all the way to the northern connection of Concord Street North near the U.S. Post Office building. That entire corridor will see streetscape improvements, including concrete boule-

vards, decorative lighting, trees, planters, benches and trash receptacles.

Seventh Avenue South will be reconstructed between the I-494 service road and South St. W. Work includes new curb and gutters, sidewalk replacement, streetscape improvements and watermain replacement. Watermain improvements will also take place near and across I-494.

First responders

South Metro Fire and South St. Paul Police department each received a therapy K9 this year to help officers and those receiving services. The pups, Hal and Riley, are golden retrievers from the same litter. Dakota County’s crisis response worker in the police department continues to join officers on emergency calls related to mental health issues.

Parks and Rec

The damaged overlook at Grandview Park was removed and the walking trail there was repaired.

Invasive species at Seidls Lake will be removed this summer and replaced with native vegetation. It’s the final phase of the project which began in 2021.

Wakota Trailhead, located under the I-494 Wakota Bridge, is slated to be complete this May, featuring new restrooms, picnic spaces and more.

Public Works will remodel the kitchen at Kaposia Pavilion.

Last year, the city worked to replace more than 800 trees on city owned properties that were removed due to Emerald Ash Borer. The city partnered with Tree Trust to host two community tree planting events last year and will do the same this year.

Wiggle Fest, Splish Splash Bash, Flannel Fest and other beloved annual events had great turnouts last year and will return this year. New this year is a color run that takes place in April, a youth running program and a crosscountry skiing program.

Doug Woog Arena had

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

its roof replaced due to hail damage and will soon unveil a new exercise and recovery room.

The city’s parks master plan is being updated this year and a community engagement event will be held 9-10 a.m., Saturday, Mar. 30, at Kaposia Park. It precedes the city’s Giant Egg Hunt.

Public works

Fleming Field will get a new fence, and taxiway A will be realigned and reconstructed.

The city recently broke ground on a new water treatment facility at well #3.

The John Carroll Plumbing Project is underway and is expected to be complete in spring 2025. It consists of replacing the building’s entire plumbing system and upgrading kitchen and bathroom amenities in every unit. Tenants are being relocated in phases and each is expected to be out of their apartment for four to eight weeks.

“Your credit report isn’t back.” “Your income hasn’t been verified yet.” Don’t be fooled by excuses. What appears to be a delay could be discrimination.

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

If you suspect unfair housing practices, visit www.hud.gov/fairhousing or call the HUD Hotline 1-800-669-9777, 1-800-927-9275 (TTY), or MN Dept. of Human Rights at 651-296-5663.

Sponsored by the Dakota County CDA and the US Dept of HUD

ews Briefs

Student notes

University of Alaska Fairbanks dean’s list: Emilie Entrikin

‘In God’s Hands’

“In God’s Hands,” a traveling art exhibition, is now on display 10 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays through April 1 at First Presbyterian Church, 535 20th Ave. N., South St Paul. It was created by the Great Commission Artists, a non-denominational, multigenerational network of artists based in the Twin Cities that includes professional artists and students from four different high schools. The mixed media exhibition includes 30 pieces of art and six standing banners that reflect the meaning of

being in God’s hands. To view the exhibit outside of normal hours, call 651-4516223. Larger groups should call 952-239-3884.

Speedsters in training

South St. Paul Parks and Recreation is offering a new training program for youth ages 8-13 who want to complete a 5K run. The 4-week program includes running workouts and general fitness exercises for improving overall health and wellbeing. The workouts consist of games, stretching techniques and strength-building exercises that help improve technique, speed and endurance. The classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays, April 1-24.

Cost is $10. For more information, call 651-366-6206 or visit southstpaul.org.

Library events

The following events are held at Kaposia Library, 115 7th Ave. N., South St Paul. For more information, visit www.co.dakota.mn.us/ libraries or call 651-4800900.

Kaposia Book Club will meet at 7 p.m., Monday, April 8 to discuss “This Tender Land” by William Kent Krueger.

Quilt show at Lawshe Museum

Dakota County Star Quilters are hosting their 29th annual quilt show, “Quilt Art for the Love of It,”

March 27-April 19 at Lawshe Museum, 130 3rd Ave., N., South St. Paul. This year’s exhibition will feature more than 100 quilts, and visitors can vote for their favorites throughout the duration of the show. The lecture “Growing a Voice in Quilting” by Carol Hancuh will take place Tuesday, April 9, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Cost to view the show is $5. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Thursday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday. For more information, visit dcsq.org or dakotahistory. org or call 651.552.7548.

Rummage sale

Luther Memorial Church, 315 15th Ave.  N., South St.

Paul, is having its annual rummage sale April 18-20. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday; and 9 a.m.-noon., Saturday. For more information, call 651-451-2400.

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

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.

City mourns the loss of its longest living resident

Tim Spitzack Editor

When Virginia Milbert was born on June 26, 1917, in Maple Plain, Minn, (nee Virginia June Beer) the United States was embroiled in World War I, the Model T was the hottest automobile on the road and electricity was just then slowly making its way into homes across the country. She came of age during the Great Depression, got married and had her first child during World War II, and moved to South St. Paul with her family just after the war. In the decades that followed she witnessed events her parents never dreamed of – men walking on the moon, civil rights advancements, computers and the internet – and carved out her place in the city she would call home for the rest of her days. Milbert passed away on March 11 at

age 106. She is remembered for her dedication to her family, church and Neighbors Inc., an organization she helped create more than 50 years ago.

As a youth, Milbert enjoyed exploring her creative side. In high school, she participated in choir, drama club, worked on the school newspaper, served on the student council and was a

member of the National Honor Society. After graduating from Wayzata High School in 1935 she enrolled in the Minnesota School of Business. Following graduation, she joined the Minnetonka Herald in Wayzata as a typist and proofreader.

In 1940, Virginia married Howard Milbert, and the couple had their first daughter, Terry Ann, in 1941. Like many young families in those days, World War II forced them apart. Howard enlisted in the Navy in 1943, and while he was away Virginia supported the war effort by working at a plant that soldered airplane parts. She and Terry lived with Howard’s parents at the time. After the war, Virginia and Howard settled in South St. Paul and soon after had two more daughters. Marcia was born in 1946, and Melane in 1949. Howard, who passed away in 2003, owned a Culligan Water dealership.

Virginia was a devoted mother and wife. She was a Girl Scout troop leader, sewed dresses and dance costumes for her daughters, and tiny dresses for their dolls. In her later years, she made beautiful quilts for her children and baby quilts for her grandchildren. She was also committed to helping others. She did this through serving at bake sales, festivals and funeral luncheons at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, where she was a member for 77 years, and through Neighbors, Inc. Virginia was one of six people of the South St. Paul faith community who helped form the nonprofit. They gathered in 1971 to discuss ways to help the growing number of people who were unemployed due to the closure of the Swift & Company packing plant in 1969, and in January 1972 officially founded the organization. She was 54 at the

time and her children were out of the home so she and Howard had some extra time on their hands. According to her obituary, it was Howard who convinced her to volunteer for one year with that fledgling organization. He was involved as well and served on its board and as treasurer for several years during the organization’s first 20 years.

“For me, volunteering at Neighbors has kept me young, has kept me in the flow of life, and has shown me I am never too old to learn new things,” she said in a June 2021 interview with the South St. Paul Voice. At that time, she still worked two 4-hour shifts in the Clothes Closet Thrift Store each week and was noted for always greeting customers with a kind word, a funny joke, a silly song or words of wisdom.

Virginia received numerous awards and recognition

for her community service including a Legacy Volunteer and Longest Serving Volunteer award from Neighbors, Inc., and the Service to Others Humanitarian Recognition award from the Rotary Club of South St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights, an award that honors people who have a long history of serving others. She was also a Super Senior for the Kaposia Days celebration parade.

Virginia Milbert

A rts & Entertainment

MN Children’s Museum

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

mcm.org

Wild Kratts: Creature Power is the featured exhibit through May 12. Explore the secret lives of animals in habitats around the planet and go on a mission to foil a villain’s nefarious plans. Other exhibits and activities include “The Scramble,” “The Studio,” “Creativity Jam,” “Sprouts,” “Our World,” “Forces at Play,”

“Shipwreck Adventures” and “Imaginopolis.”

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

Your community news and information source

MN History Center

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

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

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

“Our Home: Native Minnesota” features historic and contemporary photographs, maps, and artifacts that show how Minnesota’s native communities have retained cultural practices, teachings and values.

Other exhibits include “Minnesota’s Greatest Generation,” “Then Now Wow,” “Grainland” and “Weather Permitting.” Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students, and $8 for children ages five to 17.

History Theatre

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

Historytheatre.com

“A Unique Assignment” is showing through April 7. Following the Ole Miss Riot of 1962, a young second lieutenant in the Army is tasked with protecting the University of Mississippi’s first African American student. A relationship is forged as they navigate the political and social segregation of the Civil Rights movement.

Tickets start at $25, with discounts for students.

Landmark Center

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

landmarkcenter.org

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

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

Skylark Opera Theatre will perform songs from their repertoire, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, April 14. Free. Ballet Tuesday, noon-1 p.m., Thursday, April 16. Ballet Co.Laboratory performs excerpts from their repertoire. Free.

Light in the Well, 1-3 p.m., Sunday, April 21. This event features music, stories of people with disabilities and an art gallery. Free, but reservations are required.

BandWidth Community Band Festival, noon-6 p.m., Sunday, April 28. Volunteerbased ensembles in Minnesota will perform marches, concert band classics, pop, Broadway and jazz music. Free.

Ordway Center

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

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

St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concerts: AnneMarie McDermott plays Chausson, Poulenc and Rogerson, 11 a.m., April 5, 7 p.m., April 6, and 2 p.m., April 7. Haydn’s Surprise

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

Spring Art Crawl returns

Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

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

West Side

April 12-14

F-O-K Studios, floors 3-5 of Warehouse 2 at 106 W. Water St., will be open 5-9 p.m., April 12, noon-8 p.m., April 13, and noon-5 p.m., April 14. Visitors can explore studios and gallery spaces featuring artwork from 30 resident artists and 20 guest artists. Mediums include painting, mixed media, fiber art, sculptures, wood and photography. Complimentary beverages will be served in the lounge and some artists may have food available in their studio. Music performances slated for the weekend include David Harland, 5-6:30 p.m., April 12; Leslie Vincent, 7:30-9 p.m., April 12; Ken Takta Ensemble, 2:30-4 p.m., April 13; Todd Harper and The Eugleena

Trio, 6-7:30 p.m., April 13; The Electric Honeycomb, 2-3 p.m., April 14; and Laura Sonte-Jeraj, 2:30-4 p.m., April 14. The building is ADA accessible and has free parking.

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

Summit-Grand

April 12-14

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

Little Mekong Cultural District

April 12-14

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

Merriam Park

April 12-14

Spatial Effects Gallery, 1759 Selby Ave., will be open 6-8 p.m., April 12; noon-6 p.m., April 13; and 1-6 p.m., April 14. It will feature 28 artists selling furniture, paintings, drawings, photography, stone and metal sculptures, ceramics and

glass objects, mixed media art and even some carved gourds. Art will be in the two indoor gallery spaces, and guitarist Joel Shapira will perform 1-3 p.m., April 13. Refreshments will be available.

Cathedral Hill April 19-21

House of heART 2, 763

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

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

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

West Seventh

April 19-21

Schmidt Artists Lofts , 900 W. 7th St., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 19, noon-7 p.m., April 20, and noon-5 p.m., April 21. Eighty artists will showcase their work from the main floor and lower level of the Schmidt Brewhouse, and in a handful of other galleries and rooms. Artwork includes painting, pottery and sculpture, illustration, fiber art, jewelry,

photography, glass art, Lino cut and block printing, artisan brooms and brushes, woodworks and sand sculptures. Open Palette painting and art demonstrations will take place on the 7th floor in the Rooftop Room. Red Rocket Pizza, Eggroll Queen, and KP Concessions Mini Donut food trucks will be on site in the courtyard all weekend and Buna Mobile Coffee Bar will be inside the Brewhouse Saturday and Sunday. The work of high school artists in the 43rd Annual Congressional Art Competition will be displayed in the Atrium throughout the weekend. The building is ADA accessible and free parking is available on nearby streets.

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

Raymond Station

April 26-28

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

Open Art Space, 2147 University Ave. W., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 26, and noon-8 p.m., April 27. Four artists will sell their paintings, greeting cards and

mixed media artwork from their studios and in hallway displays. Light refreshments will be available. Parking is in the rear of the building at the intersection of Vandallia and Charles. The Jag Gallery and Paul Gaston’s Pottery Studio in the building will also be open the same hours.

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

Downtown April 26-28

George Latimer Central Library, 90 W. 4th St., will be open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., April 27, and 1-5 p.m., April 28. It will feature seven artists showcasing a variety of media including painting, sculpture, photography and ceramics. The art will be in the Bremer Room on the first floor of the building, and refreshments will be available both days.

Lowertown April 26-28

Lowertown Lofts Artist Cooperative, on the top three floors of the building at 255 Kellogg Blvd. E., will feature more than 30 artists selling their paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, woven arts, collages and more. Most art will be in hallways and gallery spaces on each floor. Enter in the back of the building in a well-marked alley entrance.

Union Depot, 214 4th St. E., will host artists 5-9 p.m., April 26; 10 a.m.-7 p.m., April 27; and noon-6 p.m., April 28. You’ll find 30 artists selling paintings, photography, jewelry, mixed

media art and apothecary creations from booths in the Head House. Visitors will have the chance to win prizes, and specials and happy hour will be available at Union Depot’s Station 81 restaurant.

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

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

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

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

The G.M. Good Ferry: a low-cost alternative for river crossings

Tim Spitzack Editor

Anyone who must cross the Wakota Bridge at rush hour knows they need to build in some extra time for the journey. Despite its 10 lanes, traffic can back up for miles, particularly for those traveling eastbound on a Friday afternoon.

Crossing the Mississippi has always been a challenge.

In the late 1880s and early 1890s travelers in South St. Paul were forced to use a ferry, which was slow and cost money, or travel to downtown St. Paul and cross there.

The first bridge to span the river in the area opened on April 9, 1895. Commonly known as the Rock Island Swing Bridge, the project was financed by the cities of South St. Paul, Newport and Cottage Grove and lo-

Light refreshments will be available.

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

Northern Light Art Studio, 218 7th St. E., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 26; noon-8 p.m., April 27; and noon-5 p.m., April 28. It will feature a gallery exhibition and works from 20 artists.

Mediums include paintings, prints, ceramics, textiles, glassworks and mixed media art. The site will also host an on-site scavenger hunt with chances to win small prizes, and two art workshops will take place over the weekend.

Pottery 201, a 6-week wheelthrowing course, is held 11 a.m.- 1 p.m., April 27, and a Finger Drawing Workshop is held 3-5 p.m., April 28.

Como

April 26-28

Front Avenue Pottery , 895 Front Ave., is celebrating its 10th season of the Crawl. It will be open 5-10 p.m., April 26; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., April 27; and 11 a.m.4 p.m., April 28. It is hosting its annual “Firing It Up In South Como!” event. Nine local artists will sell their pottery, sculptures, decorations and jewelry inside the

cated in what is now Inver Grove Heights. The glitter of the new bridge was quickly tarnished, however, when the public learned it required a toll, which apparently hadn’t been publicized during construction. It was 20 cents for one vehicle with up to two passengers (additional passengers were 3 cents each), 10 cents for motorcycles, and 3 cents for pedestrians. Twenty cents in 1895 is about $7 in today’s money. As you can imagine, the toll caused quite a public outrage, and up until the late 1930s some chose to use a ferry rather than pay the bridge toll.

The G.M. Good Ferry provided a low-cost alternative. It was owned by George M. Good, who lived in a houseboat on the river in South St. Paul and wintered at a marina in St. Paul. The ferry was rather crude: 10-feet wide

studio, workshop space and potter’s wheel area. There are several free community clay workshops throughout the weekend. “Potter’s Wheel” is held 6-9 p.m., Friday; noon5 p.m., Saturday; and noon3 p.m., Sunday. “Hand Building Kitchen Microgreens Planter” and “Kid’s Hands-on Activity: Clay Fish Dish” is held noon-5 p.m., Saturday, and noon-3 p.m., Sunday. Food and refreshments will be available.

Mark Granlund Studio, 1022 Burgess St., will be open 6-9 p.m., April 26; noon-8 p.m., April 27; and noon-6 p.m., April 28. Granlund will be selling his oil paintings from his studio. Of Ink + Insight, 1410 Pascal St. N., will host “Art on the Porch” noon-6 p.m., April 27-28. Cynthia Berg will showcase Scandinavian mixed media collages featuring abstracts and botanical themes. All art will be in the enclosed front porch of the building.

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

Payne-Phalen April 26-28

ArT @ 967, 967 Payne Ave., will feature five resident artists showcasing their work from studios and approximately 14 guest artists

by 20-feet long, with a tentlike canvas enclosure and long wooden benches inside and out. It was powered by two Model-T Ford engines, and was the cheapest way to cross the river. The fare was 10 cents per ride, or 12 rides for $1. According to a written account of one passenger, riders received a piece of cardboard with Good’s boat’s name on it as their ticket, and Good himself operated the ferry and punched tickets for each ride.

“To reach the river and ride across on the boat meant a walk along the Sixth Street sewer line, which started near the old St. Paul Tannery on Concord, or you could drive and park near the railroad tracks,” recalled Ray Madland in the history book created for South St. Paul’s Centennial celebration in 1987. “When you arrived at the dock and George hap-

in the gallery. Mediums include watercolor, acrylic and oil paintings, photography, ceramics and mixed media. Sue Sepulveda will host a soft pastel demonstration at 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

Dance classes and performances

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

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

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

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

Nautilus Music-Theatre, Suite 190 in the Northern Warehouse building, 308 E. Prince St., will present performances from new operas and contemporary musicals 7-10 p.m., April 26.

Judit Neilsdottir will host evening dance performances April 26-27 outside her loft at Lowertown Loft Artist Cooperative, 255 E. Kellogg Blvd.

pened to be on the other side of the river, you could only hope that he would see you in time so you wouldn’t be late for work. When someone worked late and wanted to cross the river, George would leave a rowboat at the dock and the fellow could row himself across for 10 cents.” Madland worked for Cudahy Packing Company

in Newport and said workers there earned 30-40 cents an hour in the late 1930s.

The bridge closed in 1999 after it was found to be unsafe and was later partially demolished. The toll at the end was 75 cents. Today, a portion of the bridge has been transformed into the Rock Island Swing Bridge

Recreational Pier, suitable for fishing and walks with scenic views of the river. The land around it is now a park. The City of Inver Grove Heights received state funding last year to add lighting to the structure or make other improvements to the pier and the surrounding trailhead area.

The G.M. Good Ferry, powered by two Model-T Ford engines, was the cheapest way to cross the river. The fare was 10 cents per ride.

Neighbors, Inc.

Dawn Wambeke President & CEO

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

First of all, we entered the year under the guidance of a new three-year strategic plan. Created at the end of 2023 with the help of many stakeholders, I consider this “everyone’s plan.” It represents our collective hopes and dreams. Key strategic initiatives include expanding

and integrating programming, growing and diversifying resources for current and future programs, increasing participation and investment through greater community awareness, and fostering a collaborative, supportive and mission-driven culture.

I’m delighted to announce that in the last few weeks we have hired Jesse Osvold as director of programs. Jesse comes to us with significant experience in higher education and workforce development. He is a nearly lifelong resident of Dakota County and is passionate about leading this initiative to benefit his own community.

Regarding our programrelated strategic plan initiatives, we are excited to

share that we are exploring the opportunity to greatly grow our Clothing Closet Thrift Store. Over the next year or so, we will be considering the opportunity of moving the Thrift Store to a second larger location, while continuing to offer a free smaller clothing closet on site at our current Grand Avenue location. This will allow us to begin offering furniture and expand our household items and clothing. In addition, we aim to greatly improve the ease of making donations such as a drive-up/drop off option. Increased revenue will allow us to offer even more free clothing/furniture for those in need and will fuel other Neighbors programs.

Our Hunger Relief programming has experienced an unprecedented nearly 400% increase in service since 2019. Our plans include expanding our onsite food shelf services, broadening our culturally specific foods and expanding community delivery. Neighbors is committed to partnering with Second Harvest Heartland to support their goal to cut hunger in half by 2030.

As part of our efforts, Neighbors will focus on strong integration with our Hunger Relief programming and our Financial Empowerment Center to help lift community members out of poverty.

Neighbors’ Financial Empowerment Center is expanding and growing. Helping to make this possible is a new Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development grant, which will support these growth initiatives. For the first time, we’ll provide career coaching along with our financial services, as the two areas are closely connected. According to Jesse, “Financial education doesn’t end with getting a job, credit scores or home buying. Finances affect your whole life.

I’m excited to see Neighbors take this on, and I’m excited to be part of it. Finances are

a never completely understood system, but an ongoing, necessary, and complex conversation.”

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

We are more committed than ever to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging and justice efforts. Neighbors will be forming a task force to help move this critical work

P ostscript

forward. Initial steps include hiring more bilingual staff and increasing our culturally relevant food and programming.

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

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

Rod Stewart hair

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

This is always nice to hear. My hair is my least endearing feature, primarily because there is not much of it. But since my husband, Peter, started cutting it, I worry a lot less.

“How does my hair look?”

I ask as I head out the door. Peter always pretends to take this question very seriously. (He should, as my hairdresser.) He scrutinizes the top of my head for a long moment, asks me to turn all the way around then reaches over and tousles something on the top.

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

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

“Ooh! Isn’t that hard?”

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

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

Carrie Classon CarrieClasson.com

he could learn new things.

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

“Why not?”

“They’ll think I’m strange.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I love it,” I told him. “I look just like Rod Stewart!” “You do,” he said. And I chose to believe him. Till next time.

Community

Do we really need county libraries anymore?

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

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

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

Usage at Dakota County libraries is off the charts, with the highest per capita usage of any metro county. In fact, more than 4,080,000 materials were checked out by 1,340,000 users last year alone. Events attracted an additional 58,371 attendees. Another 14,121 people reserved study and confer-

Luther Memorial Church

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

• St . Augustine ’s Catholic Church

408 3rd St N 651 - 45 5 - 1302 holytrinitysspmn.org

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

• Woodbury Lutheran Wakota Ridge Campus 255 W. Douglas St. 651-739-5144 woodburylutheran.org

• South St. Paul Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist 140 6th Ave N 651 - 455-0777

• Grace Lutheran Church 1 49 8th Ave S 651 - 451-1035 grace-ssp.org

ence rooms. And Dakota County libraries provided $1,880,000 in value to local small businesses through training, research tools, technology and meeting spaces, according to an independent business group.

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

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

Dakota County’s new Kaposia Library provides onsite services that go beyond traditional offerings, with

several additional practical services that focus on community needs.

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

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

We must also remember that the physical presence of libraries embodies accessibility and inclusivity, accommodating those of all abilities and those unable to afford personal devices or internet subscriptions. The location of the Kaposia Library, in particular, which is mere steps away from South St. Paul’s Middle School,

South St. Paul High School and Central Square Community Center, makes it uniquely accessible and available to serve residents of all ages.

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

Looking Back: 90 years ago this month

On April 23, 1934, notorious gangster John Dillinger and two accomplices used the Rock Island Swing Bridge in Inver Grove to escape police during a highspeed chase that started in Hastings. By one newspaper account, Dillinger was so far ahead of his pursuers that he actually stopped to

pay the bridge’s 10-cent toll. Dillinger was atop the FBI’s Most Wanted list at the time and was recognized by the toll-taker.

Soon after eluding police, the gangsters carjacked a larger, speedier 1934 Ford V8 Deluxe from Roy and Sybil Francis of South St. Paul, who were out for a drive with their infant son, Robert. By all accounts, the kidnapped Francis family (relatives of current South St. Paul Mayor Jimmy Francis) was treated well by the gangsters as they traveled through West St. Paul and Mendota Heights. When little Robert Francis wor -

ried his mother by tugging at Dillinger’s gun, the gangster tried to ease Sybil’s fears, saying, “Don’t worry lady, we like kids.” The outlaws then bought the family a soda pop when they stopped for gas, before dropping Roy, Sybil and Robert off unharmed in Mendota.

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

Worship Guide

Holy Trinity Catholic Church Catholic church

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

• Clark Memorial United Church

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

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

• Saint John Vianney Catholic Church 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

Joe Atkins Dakota County Commissioner

rban Explorer

Discovering St. Paul’s very own slot canyon

Tim Spitzack Editor

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

A slot canyon is a long, narrow channel or drainageway with sheer rock walls made of sandstone or other sedimentary rock. They’re common in Utah, Arizona and other areas of the Southwest that get little rainfall. I’ve hiked through some in that region, and they are stunning to see. Their depthto-width ratios range from 10:1 to nearly 100:1, and

some can measure less than 3 feet across at the top and drop more than 100 feet to the canyon floor. It turns out we have other canyons, too, including the mile-long Kadunce Canyon on the North Shore, north of Grand Marais. Perhaps I’ve been living under a rock.

The bluffs in St. Paul are well known for their many caves, but not canyons. Nonetheless, if you’re willing to walk about one mile from the west entrance parking lot at Crosby Farm, near the marina, you can witness St. Paul’s very own slot canyon for yourself.

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

Here, you’ll find a wonderful slice of wilderness. Looking to the south, all that is visible are the shimmering lakes

and tangled forestland. Were it not for the din of traffic zooming along Shepard Road on top of the bluff, it

At its narrowest point, St. Paul’s slot canyon is just three feet wide and over 30 feet high. The canyon widens to a large bowl some 20 feet wide and at least twice as high.

would be easy to get lost in a daydream of experiencing the land before a sprawling city grew around it. I hiked to the canyon in late February, so it was simple to spot. It may not be as easy to find when the trees are thick with foliage. From the trail you can see the narrow opening of the canyon and one must hike over a slight incline paved with slippery stones to reach it. At its narrowest point, the canyon is just three feet wide and over 30 feet high. Along the walls are initials inscribed by young lovers and others wanting to mark their place in time. Erosion will eventually erase their marks,

leaving a clean slate for the next generation. The canyon widens to a large bowl some 20 feet wide and at least twice as high. A trickle of water runs off the bluff and sparkles against the north canyon wall as it makes its way below. All around one can see the colorful strata of the limestone and the many curves and crevices carved out by the passage of time. Is the canyon as impressive as those in the southwest. No, not by a long shot, but it’s still interesting to see and is worth the short hike. Plus, it gives us one more boast of the many wonderful geographical amenities we have in our state.