South St. Paul
Facing a deadly pandemic in 1918
Feedback needed on land use plan
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Volume 17 | Number 5
Farmers’ market receives new 5-year lease Amy Johnson Staff Writer
T
he South St. Paul City Council has given its stamp of approval to the city’s popular farmers’ market by extending its lease another five years. At its Mar. 16 meeting, the Council voted unanimously to renew its lease with the St. Paul Farmers’ Market to continue operating a satellite location in South St. Paul. Beginning June 19, the market will be open 2-6 p.m. Wednesdays in the Wakota Federal Credit Union parking lot at 12th Avenue and Southview Boulevard. Farmers’ markets are considered essential businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The main market in downtown St. Paul at 290 5th St. E. opened Mar. 21 with measures to increase patrons’ safety, including handwashing stations and sterile protective gloves provided upon request. It also banned food sampling and vendors offering food for onsite consumption. The South St. Paul location may see these changes as well. For updates, visit www.stpaulfarmersmarket.com. The downtown market currently has 25-30 vendors, offering meat, cheese, vegetables, baked goods and more. It is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays. The St. Paul Growers’ Association governs the market and operates about 20 locations across the city. Market manager Dave Kotsonas said only locally grown food is sold at the markets.
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COVID-19 crisis spurs acts of compassion I n the interest of public health, we’ve all been called upon to make sacrifices in recent weeks, and more will be asked of us in the weeks and months to come. It’s a challenging time for all and undoubtedly some are more severely affected than others through illness or loss of livelihood. Yet through it all there are rays of hope, and none shine brighter than the many ways people have
put their personal needs aside to attend to the well-being of others. In times of crisis, community is more important than ever—and those in our readership area have responded valiantly. Here’s a sampling of how some have risen to the challenge, as well as words of encouragement from community leaders on how we can emerge stronger and more united. Coverage begins on page 4
‘We’re all in this together’
Next Steps
How will we respond in the weeks and months ahead? Tim Spitzack Editor
A
s winter slowly melted into spring, the fuzzy picture of a novel virus that originated on the other side of the world suddenly came into crystal-clear focus in Minnesota. Mar. 12, 2020, will forever be remembered as the day the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically affected lives in our state. On that day, Gov. Tim Walz issued Emergency Executive Order 20-01 declaring a peacetime emergency in the battle against the coronavirus. In ensuing days, other executive orders fell like dominos and touched our lives deeper still. On Mar. 16, bars, restaurants and other public establishments were closed for 10 days, and the next day schools were shut down for a similar timeframe. By that time, all 50 states had confirmed cases. On Mar. 19, the first Minnesotan died as a result of the virus, a Ramsey County resident in their 80s. On Mar. 25, we were asked to abide by Emergency Executive Order 20-20 and stay at home and limit movement within the community from Mar. 27 to April 10. All restrictions were later extended to May 4 to “flatten the curve,” or spread out the number of those infected over a longer period as to not overwhelm the health care system. Every day brought reports of new cases, new deaths. Unemployment spiked. Suddenly, we found ourselves under a dark cloud of Next steps / Page 3
Bentson named humanitarian of the year Amy Johnson Staff Writer
S
olveig Bentson has a servant’s heart. For more than 30 years, she’s lent her time and energy to the Neighbors, Inc. Clothes Closet thrift store, receiving and sorting through donations that are in turn sold at low prices to those in need. Neighbors has long appreciated her assistance, and
this year nominated her for the 2020 Service to Others Humanitarian Recognition Award, given by the South St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights Rotary Club. Bentson was introduced to Neighbors by her mother-in-law, who worked at the store. A volunteer had just quit and someone new was needed to fill a shift. It didn’t take long for Bentson to become part of the team. She
recalls becoming “hooked” immediately and knew she would be volunteering there for a long time. Bentson volunteers three to four days a week, and for the past year and a half has gradually taken on more responsibilities. Primarily, she sorts through the donations, tags them, then finds their proper place in the store. Items that are out of season are packed away until need-
ed. Other duties include training new volunteers and giving input on how to improve the store’s layout and services. She also fills in as store manager when needed. The store sells a wide variety of household items, clothes and accessories at low prices. For instance, Clothes Closet has clearance-rack sales offering five items for $1, T-shirts for 50 cents, and a Spin the Wheel Sale
that offers additional discounts. The store is open to the public, and the proceeds help support the nonprofit’s other programs. Benton typically works afternoons and evening shifts. When there is a lull, she keeps busy by cleaning and organizing, and assisting other volunteers. In her three decades of service, she has logged approximately 12,000 hours at the store.
This longstanding commitment has sparked deep friendships with other volunteers, and she finds joy in spending time with her covolunteers and hearing their personal stories. “I’ve seen relationships grow,” she said. Bentson worked for 32 years as a data analyst for the Minnesota Department Humanitarian award / Page 2
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of Human Services before retiring in 2006. She originally began working at the thrift store one day a month and slowly added more shifts over time. Bentson has a history of volunteerism. She is also active with Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Inver Grove Heights, where she has served as president of the
church council call committee, as a worship leader and as a member of the church’s social ministry team organizing international programs such as Samaritan boxes for Operation Christmas Child and care kits for the Huruma Centre in Tanzania. When discovering that Neighbor’s president and CEO Charlie Thomp-
son nominated her for the award—and that she won— Bentson was speechless. “You could’ve blown me over with a feather,” she said. In his nomination statement, Thompson said that Solveig is “a walking example of what it means to be compassionate, generous and show goodwill toward others.”
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Visit www.stpaulpublishing.com/schoolchoice to explore these schools and for tips on how to choose a school that best fits your student's and family's needs.
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Academia Cesar Chavez 1801 Lacrosse Ave., St. Paul 651-778-2940 www.cesarchavezschool.com Achieve Language Academy 2169 Stillwater Ave. E. St. Paul 651-738-4875 www.achievemn.org St. Paul City School PreK-12 260 Edmund Ave., St. Paul 651-225-9177 www.stpaulcityschool.org
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COLLEGES / UNIVERSITIES St. Paul College 235 Marshall Ave., St. Paul 651-846-1600 https://saintpaul.edu
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St. Croix Lutheran Academy 1200 Oakdale Ave., West St. Paul 651-455-1521 www.stcroixlutheran.org
The South St. Paul Voice is published monthly and distributed to 8,500 homes and high traffic businesses in South St. Paul. Publisher & Editor: Tim Spitzack Copy Editor: Leslie Martin Staff Writers: John E. Ahlstrom, John Molene, Amy Johnson
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uncertainty. The first shock wave pushed many into survival mode, and people flocked to stores to purchase groceries and other supplies, including massive quantities of toilet paper, hand sanitizer and protective masks. Then others began to look for ways to help, oftentimes in simple yet effective ways. They sewed protective masks to donate to medical professionals and others. They shopped for and attended to the needs of an elderly family member or friend. They volunteered to feed the hungry or homeless. They bought gift cards to help beleaguered restaurateurs struggling to survive weeks of closure. They washed their hands a million times and stayed six feet away from others—the new social distance norm.
A New Era Today, we are in uncharted territory but can glean wisdom from echoes of the past. One need only look to the WWII era to be inspired by how a collective effort of solidarity can strengthen a nation. When Pres. Franklin Roosevelt gave his fireside chat on April 28, 1942, he addressed a nation at war. We face a different kind of war, yet similarities remain. In his speech, he called on all Americans to do their part for the common good. Consider these excerpts from that speech: “But there is one front and one battle where everyone in the United States—every man, woman, and child—is in action, and will be privileged to remain in action throughout this war. That
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front is right here at home, in our daily lives, and in our daily tasks. Here at home everyone will have the privilege of making whatever self-denial is necessary…. This will require, of course, the abandonment not only of luxuries but of many other creature comforts…. All of us are used to spending money for things that we want, things, however, which are not absolutely essential. We will all have to forego that kind of spending…. As I told the Congress yesterday, ‘sacrifice’ is not exactly the proper word with which to describe this program of self-denial…. I know the American farmer, the American workman, and the American businessman. I know that they will gladly embrace this economy and equality of sacrifice—satisfied that it is necessary for the most vital and compelling motive in all their lives— winning through to victory.”
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His words ring true today and offer inspiration for what lies ahead. Many are without a job now or have had their hours cut, and some small business owners are wondering how their operations will survive. While economic challenges pale in comparison to those who have lost a loved one to the coronavirus, they are very real struggles all the same. This crisis has particularly affected small businesses and their employees. According to a report by JP Morgan Chase and Co., over 99 percent of America’s 28.7 million firms are small businesses (500 employees or less). The vast majority (88 percent) have fewer than 20 employees, and nearly 40 percent of all enterprises have less than $100,000 in revenue. These are the businesses we see on Main Street, businesses that provide jobs and services that support our communities. They are our favorite restaurant, our
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Stride for Packer Pride The annual Stride for Packer Pride is hosting its event on Saturday, May 16 but things will be handled differently this year due to social-distancing requirements. Participants will complete the run or walk individually. The annual 5K run/walk helps raise funds for parents who struggle to pay activity fees for their children’s athletic and extracurricular activities. Annually, nearly $10,000 is given to families needing assistance. To register or make a donation, visit www.strideforpackerpride. com. Those who register will receive a T-shirt.
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MidWestOne Bank 930 Southview Blvd. 451-2133 • State Farm Christopher Kisch 625 Southview Blvd. 455-9700 • Metzen Realty and Associates Co. 412 Southview Blvd. 455-2214 • Central Square Community Fitness Center “Where South St. Paul comes together” 100 - 7th Ave. N. 306-3690
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RESPONDING TO COVID-19
‘We’re all in this together’
NONPROFITS
Neighbors, Inc. has been on both the giving and receiving end of generosity. The organization continues operating its food shelf by offering pre-packed items, and volunteers provide transportation services to essential appointments. In a show of support, local busi-
nesses and individuals have provided numerous lunches to the staff, and one area college student, who asked to remain anonymous, donated hard-earned money from her restaurant job. She initially used the funds to purchase a plane ticket to travel to Las Vegas and California over spring break. Once she
received her refund from the airline, she donated the money to Neighbors, Inc., saying, “There were so many posts (on Facebook) about needing food, and I was like, no person should need food. If I can help, then I’m going to.” Deb Griffith, community affairs liaison for the City of
South St. Paul, has helped connect many people to service opportunities. She is also known for rolling up her sleeves and lending a hand as well. When Neighbors asked her for help in reaching seniors during the state’s stayat-home order, she provided resources and even delivered food herself.
Photos courtesy of Neighbors, Inc.
Despite suffering through weeks of closure, many restaurants donated food to feed the hungry and brighten the day of others. The COOP restaurant donated meals to the staff at Neighbors, Inc. Here Neighbors staff members Jenny Sanford and Peter Olson show their appreciation. Neighbors relies on a dedicated group of volunteers to run its programs. Michelle Davis is one who continued to pick up food once a week from a local grocery store to keep the food shelves stocked.
Here to help At times like these, we remind ourselves that we are friends, families, and businesses. We are hopes, dreams, and community. We are One. Now, more than ever, please support community small businesses, retailers, and restaurants. Buy locally, order online locally, take-out locally. We are simply better banking, and we’re here to help.
Kelli Backstrom 1st VP, Regional Retail Manager 651.256.7218 MidWestOne.bank | Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender Page 4 - South St. Paul Voice - May 2020
Sue Skinner DARTS has a long history of helping senior citizens, and its staff have continued to do just that. Sue Skinner, a resident service coordinator, keeps in touch with her clients by phone to offer a listening ear and make sure their needs are being met. This might mean helping them place a food take-out order or contacting their pharmacy. After speaking with a woman who was quarantined for several
weeks without much entertainment, Skinner sent her a crossword book to help ease the boredom. Social workers Vicki Patterson and Sandy Ostby have continued to hold their caregiver support groups over the telephone. For their first meeting, they discussed everything from keeping loved ones entertained while staying inside to the effects of social distancing on loved ones with dementia.
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BUSINESSES Julianne Oster, owner of Julianne’s Dance studio (on the right), donated the elastic from unused costumes and dance shoes to staff at St. John Vianney for homemade protective masks. She worked with Lori Lencowski, organist at St. John Vianney, to sew more than 100 masks. Tom Lencows-
Photo courtesy of Jill M. Vujovich-Laabs
ki, Lori’s husband, pitched in to cut material, and Jill Vjuovich-Laabs, director of religious education at the church, also helped sew and assemble. Sportsman’s Guide, one of South St. Paul’s largest employers, donated 40,000 N95 masks to the Minnesota Nurses Association, which distributed them statewide
to healthcare workers. Jeff MacDonald and Natalka Kramarczuk, owners of Ashes Fire Truck Rental, took to the streets to help kids celebrate their birthday. They brought their vintage fire truck to their homes, with lights flashing and siren screaming, to deliver birthday wishes.
‘I’m so proud to see many businesses coming together and sharing their talents and resources, maybe even in new ways than they have ever done before, to keep our economy running and lifting the spirits of others. We at the River Heights Chamber are working hard to make sure our business community stays strong and healthy during this difficult time and we want you to know we are with you. Now is not the time to shy away. Tell us what you need or what you’re doing, and we’ll help you spread the great word.’ Adam Bengtson 2020 Chairman, River Heights Chamber of Commerce
“I am pleased to lead a community where our Special School District #6 can mobilize its team and provide over 1,500 emergency meals a day for our students at home. These teachers and staff are more committed to our children and their wellbeing now more than ever. “Our community has typically been rule-followers in the past and today is no different. We adapt, we adjust, we listen, and we distance ourselves to protect our family and community. “Our city staff and first responders are doing everything they can do to ensure our workforce is healthy to continue to provide essential city services. They are kind and caring in the face of danger and that puts citizens and the public at ease knowing when they need them, they will be there to help. “Our community rallies around our business community, taking extra measures to buy gift cards and shop local to ensure these businesses will come back once the pandemic passes.” Mayor Jimmy Francis
Photo courtesy of Deb Griffith
Terri the T-Rex roamed throughout the city to bring greetings of joy, while practicing social distancing. “It has been so rewarding to see smiles and waves from the residents,” said the city’s mascot. “My goal is to walk every street in South St. Paul.
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YOUTH Deb Griffith, who works with the Mayor’s Youth Task Force, shared these stories of youth making a difference. Owen Schmidt, 10, overcame his boredom during the stay-at-home period by exercising his creative talents. He created chalk drawings and posted them on social media. “Because of everything that is going on I thought we should write
inspirational messages,” he said. “Mom gave me a bunch of white chalk and came out with me and we wrote: Don’t Worry, Be Happy!” He created many others. “I plan to keep on writing and drawing until I can’t anymore.” Ellie Hundley, a firstgrade student in South St. Paul, used her love of books to brighten the days of others. She hosted her own story-
time on Facebook. “I like the books that I read and wanted to share them with all my friends and other kids who like books, too,” she said. “I wanted kids to feel safe and not lonely.” Area youth offered cheer and goodwill to senior citizens at the John Carroll and Nan McKay buildings, some of whom have struggled with feelings of isolation.
St. Paul City School District
Thanks to our students, their parents and our staff for working together during this challenging time to promote learning. Call 651-225-9177 or visit www.stpaulcityschool.org to learn more and schedule a tour
St. Paul City Primary School 260 Edmund Ave., St. Paul St. Paul City Middle School 643 Virginia St., St. Paul River's Edge Academy High School 188 West Plato Blvd., St. Paul
• Free public charter school • Small class sizes (25 or fewer) • Full day pres-school and kindergarten • Emphasis on community • Environmental Ed / Experiential Learning programs • Free school busing in St. Paul for Pre-K-8th grade / Free Metro Transit passes for 9th-12th grade • Free breakfast & lunch available • Special education services • English language learning services • School culture that emphasizes relationships, community building, leadership and character growth.
South St. Paul Voice - May 2020 - Page 5
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Neighbors, Inc. Charlie Thompson President & CEO
The COVID-19 pandemic has touched every aspect of our lives. In my household, both my wife and I work in what are considered essential jobs. This means we continue sending our daughter to childcare and our 10-year-old son to Kids Care at his school. When my wife dropped off our son one day, he asked about our safety. He worried that if mom and dad get sick that he would be left alone to take
Jennifer L. Gale president
Working together to keep the economy moving forward By Jennifer Gale, River Heights Chamber of Commerce, and Doug Loon, Minnesota Chamber
Every employer and employee is feeling the unprecedented impact of COVID-19. We thank employers and employees throughout Minnesota for navigating this crisis to mitigate health impacts and keep our state moving forward. If your business is currently struggling or you are confused about the resources available to you, we can help. Contact us or visit our business resources page at http://www.riverheights. com/covid19/.
Innovating and leveraging resources Minnesota is blessed with innovative companies and skilled workers. Employers and employees are continuing to find ways to work safely, keep essential operations open, meet customer demands and protect critical supply chains.
care of his sister. Wow, that got our attention. She explained to him that we are taking precautions and that if we did get sick, we would likely recover from the virus. Thankfully, he understood and feels better about our situation. At Neighbors, the pandemic has caused us to do what would have been unthinkable just a few weeks ago: operate without volunteers. Think of it. An organization unable to welcome the very people that our mission says we are connecting to so our neighbors can thrive. It is startling and all too real. Yet the generosity of our community is evident every day, and food support continues during the pandemic. Our supporters continue to give generously. Projects that can be performed at home are happening on a regular basis. Drivers are still bringing us fresh produce and bakery products from grocer partners. Individuals, corporations, churches and foundations are providing financial support so we can continue operations. The communities that we serve—and call home—continue to support us.
I want to thank another dedicated group of supporters: Neighbors’ employees. Normally this team of 15 spend their days supporting the more than 1,200 volunteers that give their time to Neighbors. Now, in addition to their regular tasks, they are performing the work of the volunteers. You can find them bagging groceries, sorting food, packing produce bags and so much more. They are here every day helping make certain our neighbors do not go hungry. While many people are rightly staying home, the Neighbors team is coming to work and filling an essential role. Like all of you, we at Neighbors look forward to the end of the pandemic and social distancing, and a return to a new normal. We look forward to helping customers in our Clothes Closet, clients shopping with volunteers in our food shelf, and the buzz that fills our building when all our friends and neighbors are here connecting with each other and providing opportunities to thrive. For the most up to date information about Neighbors and COVID-19, visit www.neighborsmn.org.
Most impressive, companies are showing their ingenuity to transform operations almost overnight to supply products and services critical to bringing this pandemic under control. Chambers share the goal of ensuring a healthy business community and economy. The stakes are higher today and our efforts are escalated as we fight this pandemic. We are working tirelessly for our members by listening to their needs and responding in their best interests.
Assistance to keep communities thriving Every company is impacted by the state and federal directives related to COVID-19. Those deemed essential are doing what they can to keep shelves stocked and meet customer demands. Many of those required to close their physical doors are operating remotely or have pivoted their operations. They are reviewing every funding option available to continue to make payroll and act in good faith on behalf of their employees to keep their businesses open while mitigating health impacts. The twists and turns of the pandemic are changing daily. Your chambers of commerce provide timely and trusted information to navigate this crisis. We know businesses are looking for funding and resources. Your state and local chambers can help you navigate your options and maximize the benefit for your business and employees. While our offices are closed during the stay-at-home order, we are only a phone call or email away. Businesses contribute to our shared quality of life in Minnesota. Generational-owned family companies and new entrepreneurial start-ups are equally important parts of our story. The remarkable response of employers and employees everywhere is evidence that Minnesotans are well-prepared to weather this pandemic storm. Working together, we will position Minnesota to return to full productivity and full employment as soon as possible. For more information, visit www.riverheights.com, or contact us at 651-451-2266 or info@riverheights.com.
Bringing businesses together Your local and state chambers work with businesses of every type, size and industry, and in every corner of the state. By listening to the needs of our members, we can make connections between challenges and solutions—during this crisis and long afterward. The River Heights Chamber has been sharing critical information to keep the business community abreast of the latest resources and programs available to them, has created webinars and virtual events, and is sharing the accomplishments and needs of its business members within the community. Advocating for employers and employees Health and safety are paramount concerns for all of us. We share the goal of our elected officials to reduce the spread of the virus and simultaneously protect the long-term strength of the private-sector economy. It’s a delicate balance and we have worked with legislators and Governor Walz and his administration to make decisions with this balance in mind.
City names winner of Community Spotlight Award In March, Delores Felsheim, 89, was selected to receive the city’s inaugural Community Spotlight award, which recognizes a
resident, business or organization that bring happiness, joy, assistance or comfort to the community. This longtime South St. Paulite has
given the gift of music to many residents, young and old alike. It is estimated she has taught piano to 400 to 500 students, teaching up to
45 lessons each week. Due to health complications, Felsheim had to sell her home, at which point she donated one of her pianos to
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Black Sheep Coffee Café in South St. Paul, a place where she formerly had breakfast almost daily. She continues to share her love of music and now teaches students at St. Therese of New Hope. The City was set to present Felsheim with her award at a city council meeting in March, but those plans were interrupted due to the COVID-19 stay-at-home order. The City plans to give the award quarterly. Mayor Jimmy Francis will present it at the mid-month council meeting in June, September, December and March.
This year the City is bringing back the “Your Property Looks Great” program to recognize homeowners and business owners who have significantly improved the appearance of their home, business or landscaping. The city will deliver a door hanger to nominees to acknowledge that their improvement looks great. To submit a property for recognition or nominate someone for the Community Spotlight award, visit www.southstpaul.org or contact Deb at deb.griffith@southstpaul.org or 651-554-3230.
N ews Briefs
F Your community news and source Q NOinformation T C C A A O T ON U ESTI NTACT NO C VICE! S MAT R Eorder E A S S! Park services limited during stay-at-home T LParks and trails in South nity Center is closed but fit- 9. Applications for commuF St.I Paul are open but have ness instructors are offering nity garden plots and sumstuck R T limited services, and opera- free online classes via Zoom.Don't merget Park andwith Recaprograms Why Great $1200 service call! I at Y may tions changeDoor? until the Participants must register are also accepted online Garage SAVE ON SERVICE E stay-at-home order is lifted. online to receive the access www.southstpaul.org. Service 2 Springs $ N is # these When amenities, code. Doug 219 Woog Arena Quality S using Replaced Value social users practice Playgrounds, volleyball 2 Cables closed, $ and all events Dhave I must • FREE phone L 159or cancelled. distancing and all that goes courts and city ballfields Replaced been postponed estimates N Y • FREE on-site with are closed, as are the public The arena is currently underC it. door quotes 16'restrooms, x 7’ Raisedso Panel • A+ rated BBB The off-leash dog park at keeporthat in going a deep-cleaningSand E • Award winning Carriage, Installed Pricing!! Kaposia Landing is open but mind before heading out minor repair work. BradE Paservice Non-Insulated • Quality in aarange 2 Weekride. users must have pass, avail- $780 for a walk, jog or bike tet was recently hired toRhelp of prices Insulated with SALE! 1 • Most doors installed able at www.southstpaul.org. Portable toilets may be avail- Premium maintain the arena andVwill Vinyl Backer $890 one week 9 city’sinarchery $ Deluxe 1/228 hp hours Full 2" Thick Insulated The range, disc able at some sites. work a week once • Huge selection I Chain Drive $995 Steel Front and Steel Back 8 • Residential and courts Door removal/recycle WI-FI compatible. Lifetime motor golf course, tennis Picnicking is currently operations return to normal. and windows extra. C Commercial warranty. Installed! Exp. 5/15/20. 5 basketball courts also suspended. and The rental season For more information, E remain open. for park shelters begins May visit www.southstpaul.org. West St. Paul (651) 454-4522 www.GreatGarageDoor.com ST. PAUL (651) 486-0000 Central Square Commu-
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County seeks feedback on land conservation plan Dakota County is seeking public comment on its draft Land Conservation Plan, which identifies and prioritizes lands for voluntary protection and enhanced natural resource management, improves coordination for land protection and long-term natural resource management and evaluates ways to increase voluntary protection and stewardship of private lands. The public review and comment period is open through May 25. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, no face-to-face meetings are planned but written comments are welcome. To review the plan,
visit www.co.dakota.mn.us, search land conservation plan. Email comments to planning@co.dakota.mn.us or mail comments to Dakota County Land Conservation Manager, 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley, MN 55124. Dakota County is also seeking volunteers eager to pull on a pair of waders and jump into monitoring the health of community wetlands. Volunteers typically commit 10-20 hours, which includes training, field work and lab analysis. Training and equipment are provided. Register by May 15 at www.dakotacounty.
us, search WHEP. For more information, visit www.mnwhep.org.
Plant sale cancelled
The 29th Annual South St. Paul Garden Club Plant Sale, originally scheduled for May 15-16, has been canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak. The club is considering a perennial plant sale in the fall.
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Replaced 2 Cables Replaced
16' x 7’ Raised Panel or Carriage, Installed Pricing!!
$780 2 Week Insulated with SALE! $890 Vinyl Backer Full 2" Thick Insulated $995 Steel Front and Steel Back Non-Insulated
Door removal/recycle and windows extra. Exp. 5/15/20.
South St. Paul (651) 454-4522 www.GreatGarageDoor.com
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F A S T F R I E N D L Y
S E R Premium V Deluxe 1/2 hp $ I Chain Drive WI-FI compatible. Lifetime motor C warranty. Installed! E ST. PAUL (651) 486-0000
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B ack in Time
Your community news and information source
Facing a deadly pandemic one century ago Lois Glewwe Contributor
today’s South St. JustPaulasresidents have ex-
perienced stay-at-home requirements and a ban on public gatherings, city residents in 1918 did the same. The first incidence of the so-called Spanish Flu or Spanish Influenza in the U.S. was diagnosed in Kansas in the spring of 1918. As far as researchers can tell, the first case in Minnesota was discovered on Sept. 25 in Wells, a little town between Mankato and Albert Lea. The virus was traced to soldiers and other military personnel, and it was only a matter of weeks before it spread rapidly across the country. One of the major challenges the entire country faced is that thousands of doctors and nurses were at that time in Europe, supporting the troops during World War I. Local hospitals weren’t prepared to handle
the influx of patients seeking medical attention as they developed symptoms. Minneapolis closed public schools in October and St. Paul followed on Nov. 6. The closing order affected schools, theaters, houses of worship and dance halls. People were advised to cover sneezes and coughs with a handkerchief and to get plenty of fresh air. Then as now, police broke up large gatherings, including a football game played in defiance one November afternoon in Minneapolis. Mail carriers were recruited to deliver educational materials on their routes, while Boy Scouts distributed posters to stores, offices and factories. Laid-off teachers were asked to volunteer for an educational campaign to get rid of shared drinking cups, as well as cloth roller towels, which were used to dry hands after washing. St. Paul set up a public kitchen, a children’s home, and an emergency hospital for children who were orphaned or
alone, and for adults unable to care for themselves. It’s unclear whether South St. Paul schools closed but people began to die here in October. At least three city residents died from the flu on Oct. 11, and four more had succumbed by Oct. 21. Twenty-five deaths occurred in the city during November, and at least three more in December. Victims ranged from infancy to old age. Some obituaries indicated they died of pneumonia, but pneumonia was often brought on by exposure to the virus. Many families lost more than one member to the deadly epidemic. Louis Ballance and his 15-monthold son both died on Nov. 22. Filip Cioban lost his wife and child on Nov. 5, and he died two days later. The flu was not declared gone from Minnesota until 1920. To get a small sense of the impact that the deaths of so many local residents had on the community,
today’s residents can simply walk through Oak Hill Cemetery and see the number of tombstones and grave markers of individuals who died in 1918 and 1919. One such stone commemorates Carl and Lizzie Maurer. They emigrated to Minnesota from Hungary in 1907, and although they lived on Thomas Street in St. Paul, they are buried in Oak Hill. Both died on Jan. 12, 1919, leaving behind their two children, Paul, 7, and Anna, 5. It’s likely that the family had relatives in South St. Paul, which would explain why they were buried at Oak Hill. Gradually the flu virus passed, leaving in its path more than 75,000 Minnesotans who had been sickened and nearly 12,000 who had died over the course of 18 months. Over 50 million people died from the flu around the world, with approximately 675,000 deaths in the United States.
Carl and Lizzie Maurer emigrated to the United States from Hungary in 1907. The couple’s 2-year-old son Mathias died in 1910. Carl and Lizzie both died of the flu on Jan. 12, 1919, leaving behind children Paul and Anna.
Community We’re open Matters Now more than ever, it's important for us to rally together and support each other. These are challenging times, but we can get through them if we work together. I'm working with our state legislators on programs to help residents and small businesses. I invite you to do the same. Look for ways to support your family, friends and neighbors — especially the unemployed and underemployed — and remember to shop locally. Our small businesses desperately need your support. Please feel free to contact me anytime: 651-296-6828 rep.rick.hansen@house.mn twitter @reprickhansen Rick Hansen represents the cities of West St. Paul, South St. Paul, Mendota, Mendota Heights and Lilydale. DFL, Labor & Business endorsed.
Rick Hansen State Representative • District 52A PAID ADVERTISEMENT Prepared and paid for by People for Hansen, 1007 15th Avenue N., South St. Paul MN 55075
Page 8 - South St. Paul Voice - May 2020
Relax and stay healthy by spending time in nature. Dakota County parks and trails are open to the public. Please practice social distancing while enjoying the parks. For details, visit www.dakotacounty.us/parks search covid-19.