South St. Paul Voice May 2022 by St. Paul Publishing Co.

South St. Paul Anniversaries Abound

Arts & Entertainment

Page 12

Page 6

Volume 19 | Number 5

Your Community News & Information Source

May 2022

A changing of the guard

City says farewell to long-time city clerk Tim Spitzack Editor

City administrator retiring; search underway to find successor

T Thomas Becknell

SSP author dives deep into the Mississippi River Tim Spitzack Editor

ike many others, Thomas Becknell struggled in 2020, a turbulent year rife with political unrest, social injustice and a global pandemic. To make sense of the madness, he turned to two old friends: books and the Mississippi River. “Both have been my refuge from – and engagement with – the world,” he writes in his new book, “Enchantments of the Mississippi: A Contemplative Journey of Time and Place.” While the book explores the significance of various aspects of the river (bridges, confluences, bends, bluffs and field), it stems from the personal heartache and challenges that the author experienced in recent years: divorce, the loss of a home, fading friendships and his aging body. Within its pages, Becknell explores both physical and emotional landscapes and even wades into deep waters to address the sacredness some people

Thomas Becknell / Page 2

City Administrator Joel Hanson Tim Spitzack Editor

fter four years at the helm, City Administrator Joel Hanson is stepping down. He will retire on June 24, capping a 42-year career in public administration. While his time with the city was short, he is credited with helping shepherd the city through several major redevelopment efforts and the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key projects during his tenure included the Concord Street Improvement Project, planning for a

new library building at 7th and Marie and the pending turnover of the city’s library to the Dakota County library system, Phase 2 construction at Kaposia Landing Park, and several new housing developments. South St. Paul Mayor Jimmy Francis credits Hanson for his solid leadership and said the city was fortunate to find someone of his caliber and experience to succeed Steven King, Hanson’s predecessor who had been administrator for 15 years. “I think Joel’s biggest accomplishment Joel Hanson / Page 2

he City of South St. Paul has a tough job ahead: to fill the shoes of City Clerk and Licensing/ Code Enforcement Manager Christy Wilcox, who is retiring on April 27 after 38 years of service. South St. Paul Mayor Jimmy Francis said Wilcox has been a tireless worker who wore many hats, including elections, code enforcement, recycling and management of the city’s compost site. “You can’t replace someone like her,” said Francis. “People like her don’t exist anymore, who knows the things she knows and does the things she can do.” With that in mind, the City has restructured the position to encompass records management, licensing and elections. Code enforcement and recycling are now managed by the Community Development department, and Public Works manages the compost site. No hiring timeline was available as of press time. In her retirement letter, Wilcox wrote, “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work in the city I live [in] and have truly enjoyed the opportunities that have been provided to me. I am appreciative of the people I have met while working here and the lifelong friendships I have made. It has been my pleasure to serve the citizens of South St. Paul but [I] look forward to retirement and spending more time with my family.”

SSP Educational Foundation names new executive director Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

early 70 applications flooded in last December when the South St. Paul Educational Foundation announced it was seeking a new executive director. It took about a month to sift through the candidates, and now after final interviews the foundation board has found its next leader. On July 1, Beth

Beth Skwira Skwira will take the wheel. She succeeds Cari Vujovich, who held the position for

17 years. Skwira has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and communication from Concordia College in Moorhead and has worked in nonprofits for more than 30 years. She has been director of mission advancement with Neighbors, Inc. since 2016. “It’s a dream job for me and something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Skwira of her new position. “The foundation is a pillar of this

community’s public schools, and one of the things I really wanted to do sometime in my career was to be able to not just raise money but give it away. It’s a privilege to do the work to raise the money but it’s really amazing and a gift to be able to give it away.” Founded in 1984, the foundation helps provide area students with scholarships and learning opportunities, and also helps provide

schools with funding for curriculum enrichment and staff training. The duties of executive director include fundraising, management, administrative work and more. To ease with the transition, Skwira will shadow Vujovich for about two weeks before taking over. She said her short-term goals are finding more ways to attract younger donors and growing the foundation’s online

presence. Being a mother of three, she knows that everyone has a phone in their hand these days but not everyone has a checkbook. Thus, she and her staff will explore ways to make online giving more convenient. “The volume and value of the scholarships are a unique and amazing thing that sets us apart. But the other piece of the foundation that isn’t Beth Skwira / Page 3

P eople Joel Hanson from page 1

was that he was able to do a reset on staff and culture and allow people to do the things they do,” said Francis. “That was a big deal.” He also credited him for his work on the $32 million Concord Street project. “He was a great champion to get that project to the finish line,” he added. The city will look for his successor from within its

ranks and has already interviewed Economic and Community Development Director Ryan Garcia and City Engineer Sue Polka. A decision is expected in early May. The city administrator serves as the chief budget officer and chief purchasing officer, provides direction and oversight to all department directors, and makes

Your community news and information source recommendations to the city council. Before coming to South St. Paul, Hanson was a longtime administrator for the City of Little Canada, and also was administrator for the City of Rush City and Rush City Hospital. In his letter of retirement, Hanson wrote, “It is with mixed emotion that I am providing my notice of retirement effective on the close of business June 24, 2022. South St. Paul is an amazing com-

City names new parks director Jake Spitzack Staff Writer

ajor changes are in store for the South St. Paul parks system, but residents can rest assured that a veteran employee is managing the details. The South St. Paul City Council recently named Shannon Young director of Parks and Recreation. Young, who has worked in the department for 23 years, began in administration and from

Q U A L I T Y

there became a recreational programmer. For the past 18 years she has been the recreational supervisor. The city has been without a director since fall 2020, when the position was eliminated due to a shortfall in the city’s budget. “I just love being in parks and recreation, and being in this position will let me continue to move the department forward,” said Young, a native of South St. Paul. “I’m excited about the op-

portunity they gave me and excited to see what we can get accomplished.” Last June, the City Council unanimously voted to end its joint agreement with the school district, placing sole management of Central Square Community Center on Special District 6. As a result, parks and rec relocated to City Hall, where it has additional administrative support. “It’s funny, I started out as an administration worker

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munity with unparalleled community pride. It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve as South St. Paul’s city administrator these past four years and I have truly enjoyed working with an excellent group of elected officials and staff. From a personal standpoint, I wish I could back up the clock about 10 years because there are a lot of exciting things to work on in the community. Given that is not possible, I believe now is the best time

to retire to enable me to accomplish some personal goals. I also believe it is the right time for the City due to the transitions occurring within South St. Paul’s staff. A new person at the helm should be involved during this time of transition to ensure the team is arranged in a manner that makes sense to that person versus what I might do. You can count on me to cooperate in whatever way is needed to ensure

a smooth transition in the city administrator position. Again, thank you for providing me the opportunity to be part of the team in South St. Paul.” What are Hanson’s plans once he gives up the grind? “Nothing too specific,” he said. “Generally, to be more involved with my two grandsons, golf, fish, spend more time at our cabin north of Duluth, and hang out with my other retired friends.”

in the Parks and Recreation department in the lower level of City Hall,” said Young. “I was there for six months then the department moved to Wakota Arena (now Woog Arena). From there we moved to Central Square and developed the community center. Lo and behold, I’m back here at City Hall and now overseeing the arena.” Parks and Rec is operating differently now that it’s no longer managing programs at Central Square. In the past, the department focused

heavily on indoor programming for the fitness center, and aquatic and gymnastic programs. Today, the department is more focused on athletics, day camps and youth and family events. The department is updating its master plan that was adopted in 2005. It will address the recently purchased Jefferson school site, and upgrades to playgrounds, outdoor rinks, pools and Woog Arena, which is getting a new radiant heat system in Rink 1 and a new software system. The City also recently hired

an arena manager and an arena maintenance worker. The department manages 15 parks. Young said the summer activities brochure is complete and that the department is looking to develop new programs in the future. “I just love being able to work with the community and offer programs,” she said. “I like being able to work with other departments and I love all our staff around here. You couldn’t ask for a better job, in my opinion.”

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P eople Thomas Becknell

Your community news and information source

from page 1

find along the river. When Becknell shared his feelings of desolation with a friend one day, the man suggested he turn to the river. The notion frightened him because rivers had been a source of “holy terror” for him, a result of emotional scars formed during his childhood, when his maternal grandmother flung herself from a bridge into the Ohio River to escape her depression. Sadness runs deep in his family. His mother also lost her battle with despair years later. Despite his fears, Becknell took his friend’s advice

and embarked on a journey that would make him intimate with the river and its people, past and present, and provide fodder for his own literary contribution to the world. Born in Ohio and raised on the plains of Eastern Wyoming and Nebraska, Becknell developed a love of literature early on. He moved to the Twin Cities after receiving his Ph.D. in American literature from the University of Iowa. Now retired, he spent his career teaching literature and writing to college students in St. Paul. Given his professional

Beth Skwira from page 1

talked about a whole lot is the program funding it provides,” said Skwira. “People can donate to specific programs they’re interested in, and teachers can apply for those funds for their classroom or their school. That program piece is really exciting to me.” The foundation has several programs in place. In 2014, it began working with the South St. Paul Garden Club to fund an annual field trip for kindergarteners at Kaposia and Lincoln Center to visit the farm at the Dodge

Nature Center in West St. Paul. Most recently, it established “Mr. Otto’s Way,” a program that provides winter clothing for elementary students in need, and it also provided funding for South St. Paul Secondary’s theater department. During Vujovich’s tenure, the foundation awarded nearly $7 million to more than 3,500 students. Much of the foundation’s funding comes from two annual events: a gala in the summer and a walk-a-thon in the fall. It also receives donations from organiza-

background, it was only natural that he enlisted his favorite authors and poets to help him tell the overarching story of the river. In one section, he takes an imaginative stroll with Henry David

Thoreau, Herman Melville and Samuel Clemens, referencing their thoughts through quotes and excerpts of their work. However, it is clear from Becknell’s writing that his own words have power, too. He is a lover of language, and he wields it well. He illuminates the “enchanting” landscapes found in the river valley with phrases that evoke emotion and conjure up vivid images. His inquisitiveness is contagious, and much can be learned from his searching, historical research and willingness

to ask deep questions. Becknell began writing the book in 2017 in his apartment in the Pioneer Building in Lowertown and finished it at his new home in South St. Paul, where he moved in 2019 with his new bride, Pamela. During the writing process, he explored significant river sites locally and many others downstream in Illinois and Missouri. Anyone who loves the river will know the places he visited, but his personal observations present the locales in a new light and make one want to

hop on the Great River Road to experience them anew. Becknell returned from his travels with a suitcase full of research and individual experiences, but it was at Kaposia Landing on the bank of the river in South St. Paul where he eventually discovered what he had been searching for. The book was published by Beaver’s Pond Press in St. Paul. To read an except, visit www.thomasbecknell. com. Red Wing native Kari Vick provided illustrations.

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tions such as the South St. Paul Lion’s Club and the Abner Rude American Legion Post #481, as well as individual contributors, including alumni who include the foundation in their will. “When you can see that someone’s needs are met because of your generosity, it’s really powerful,” said Skwira. “I think part of working at the foundation is telling the story of how the gifts that people give have a positive impact on the lives of students in our schools.” Skwira has lived in South St. Paul since 1996. She and husband Pete have three daughters.

Correction notice: In the April issue, it was reported that the South St. Paul Library is now part of the Dakota County Library system. While the County Board has approved the design of a new County library in South St. Paul, the South St. Paul Public Library is not slated to become part of the Dakota County Library system until January 1, 2024.

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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: Jake Spitzack John E. Ahlstrom

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The South St. Paul Voice assumes no responsibility for the opinions expressed by contributors and for the validity of claims or items reported. Copyright South St. Paul Voice 2022. All rights reserved in compliance of Federal Copyright Act of 1978.

South St. Paul Voice - May 2022 - Page 3

S ports

Your community news and information source

Baseball and softball teams in slugfest with Mother Nature John E. Ahlstrom Staff Writer

he COVID-19 pandemic wiped out the entire 2020 spring sports season. That was a significant blow, especially for the senior athletes who wanted nothing more than to represent their school one last time before graduation. In 2021, some normalcy returned for student athletes. But now, in 2022, due to the brutal antics of Mother Nature, outdoor activities have once again come to a virtual standstill. It might be overstating it some, but it is likely that on April 25, when you pick up your May issue of the South St. Paul Voice, 70% of the games scheduled for the South St. Paul High School (SSPHS) baseball and softball teams will have been canceled. The original 24-game schedule for the baseball season spanned from April 5 to May 24. That is nearly one game every other day. The

23-game schedule for softball stretched from April 5 to May 29, again nearly one game every other day. Are you ready for doubleheaders? Both teams have practiced in the gym since Mar. 14. As of April 18, neither team had yet practiced outdoors more than twice. But all hope is not lost. Despite their eagerness to get after it on the diamond, the players have exhibited diligence and patience while honing their skills in the gym, according to both head coaches. With that we pause to present our spring preview for each team. Dylan Olson is in his second season as the head coach of the baseball team, and his eighth year as a member of the SSPHS coaching staff. After a 2021 season that was marred by COVID-16 disruption and the loss of 12 seniors on the roster, the Packers are entering the 2022 season with numerous positions up for grabs. Two returning lettermen, senior Michael Damm and sopho-

Home games All at McGuire Field April 25 – Simley, 4:30 p.m. April 27 – Mahtomedi, 4:30 p.m. May 5 – Fridley, 4:30 p.m. May 6 – Hastings, 7 p.m. May 9 – Tartan, 7 p.m. May 13 – STA, 7 p.m. May 20 – North, 7 p.m.

Softball

Senior Rylee Casalenda is the #1 pitcher and also a threat at the plate. more Andrew Ritter, will lead the pitching corps. “We will rely heavily on Michael’s savvy and experience,” said Olson. “Andrew made several starts last season

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and has a positive upside. We also have some young arms that show some promise and they will get tested as we piece this together.” Ninth grader Landon Jasper will be the starting catcher. According to Olson, he is poised and gritty beyond his years. Senior Jason Hedberg will serve as his backup. Senior Alex Tittrington will be the starter at third base and sophomore Brody Shepard will return as the starting shortstop.

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“Alex is versatile and has played at first base and also caught some,” said Olson. “We are expecting a lot out of Shepard in the field, in the dugout and in the batter’s box. He hit over .300 as a freshman.” Junior Braden McLaughlin will patrol centerfield and senior Lane Engel will be one of the corner outfielders. Olson indicated that the starters at first base, second base and the third outfielder are up for grabs. “Despite our situation in terms of youth and lack of depth, I feel that our program is in a really good place,” said Olson. “I’ve never been with a group of kids who love the game of baseball more than this one. As hard as they work, I know we will be a better team in May.”

Paul Moen, now 79 years young, was part of the softball coaching staff for 34 years, the last 16 as head coach. “Moensie,” who retired at the end of last season, is a beloved athletic figure and his devotion to SSPHS athletics will resonate for years to come. Moen’s lead assistant for the past three years, Allison Binder, was elevated to the head coaching job. A Wisconsin native, Binder is in her fourth year as an eighth grade language and literature teacher. “I was very lucky to coach with Paul Moen for three seasons,” she said. “He taught me a lot about softball and South St. Paul in general. I’m pleased that I’m still able to see him from time to time in our building.” Although the 2022 squad is young at numerous positions, that dilemma will likely bode well for the Packers down the road. That said, senior pitcher Rylee Casalenda and senior catcher Emma Barker are the team captains and provide a great deal of

S ports leadership and stability. “I’ve watched Rylee develop since she was in ninth grade and she has definitely become the mainstay of our pitching staff,” said Binder. “Emma dares anyone to outwork her and is a great role model on and off the field.” Sophomore pitcher Mallory Brandecker is now a full-time member of the varsity and will see action on the mound and elsewhere. Eighth Grader Sofia Bebeau will back up Barker behind the plate. The infield will likely feature junior Olivia Bonk at first base, sophomore Anna Pederson at second, eighth grader Chloe O’Neill at third and junior Delaney Norman at shortstop. “Olivia is strong defensively and a prototype cleanup hitter and Anna is a slap hitter with speed and is a great baserunner,” said

Binder. “Chloe does well in the field and at the plate and Delaney is a pure athlete with a gifted head for the game.” The outfield from left to right includes eighth grader Emma Mauer (no relation to Joe) and seniors Cate Dwelle and Alex Glass. Ninth grader Camille Jacobs will also see action. “Emma and Camille are definitely up-and-comers,” said Binder. “Cate covers a lot of ground in center and has mastered the layout dive to make a catch and Alex is a steady Eddie in right.” Others who will get playing time are ninth grader Lily Pachl and senior Tatyanna Hesser. Tyne Grefe is in her first season as Binder’s lead assistant. The Packers are fielding a young team, but the head coach cannot conceal her enthusiasm for the season ahead.

“I’m super excited and feel I’m ready for this opportunity,” she said. “I have a wonderful group of kids who love the game and play it the right way.”

Home games All at 4:15 p.m. at Harmon Field May 2 – Hastings May 3 – Simley May 13 – Tartan May 16 – Hill-Murray May 19 - Irondale

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A rts & Culture

Fitzgerald Theatre

10 E. Exchange St. St. Paul 651-370-2953 www.first-avenue.com

“Dog Man: The Musical” will be presented at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 30. Tickets start at $29.50.

History Theatre

30 10th St. E. St. Paul 651-292-4323 www.historytheatre.com

“Runestone! A Rock Musical” is presented at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays, May 7-29. Swedish immigrant Olaf Ohlman digs up a rock in 1898 that has “a story on carved runes,” which tells that the Vikings were the first Europeans to set foot in Minnesota. He is praised for his discovery

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but controversy soon erupts and his life is turned upside down. Step back in time with this whimsical rock ’n’ roll musical. Tickets start at $45, with discounts for seniors, those under 30, and students. An online streaming option will be available May 23-29. Streaming tickets are $25 for an individual and $40 for a household.

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

“Righting a Wrong: Japanese Americans and World War II” is a new exhibit on display through July 3. It looks at immigration, prejudice, civil rights, heroism, and what it means to be an American. “Art Speaks” is on display through July. It presents

more than 160 paintings, sculptures and photos collected over the past 15 years and invites Minnesotans to explore the intersection of art and the history of the state. “Our Home: Native Minnesota” shows how Minnesota’s native communities have retained cultural practices, teachings and values. “Votes for Women” is an online resource available on the History Center website. Learn about extraordinary women, the ratification of the 19th Amendment and more. “Black History, Black Voices” is an online resource available on the History Center website. Learn about Black history and the contributions Black Americans have made to Minnesota. Other exhibits include

Neal Skoy, Julia Valen and Michael Terrell Brown are ready to rock out in “Airness,” presented May 13-June 5 at Park Square Theatre. “Minnesota’s Greatest Generation,” “Then Now Wow” and “Weather Permitting.” The Center is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., ThursdaySunday. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and college students and $8 for children ages five to 17.

Landmark Center

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

Georgia Jacobson, mezzo-soprano with the Lyric Opera, and actor/vocalist Bradley Greenwald will perform in concert noon-1

p.m., Wednesday, April 27. Free. May Day Tea Party is held 1-4 p.m., Sunday, May 1. Kids and parents can enjoy tea or juice and snacks. Limited seats are available. To reserve a seat, call 651292-3063. Star of the North Con-

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Page 6 - South St. Paul Voice - May 2022

Saint Paul College, A member of Minnesota State

A rts & Culture cert Band will perform 7:30-9:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 4. Free. Violinist Francesca Anderegg and pianist Matthew McCright will perform in concert noon-1 p.m., Thursday, May 5. Free. “CARE: Reimagining Justice” is held 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m., Saturday, May 7. Visitors can share a story about an injustice they’ve experienced in their life and what justice looked like to them in that situation. The stories will be shared (with consent) in the Landmark Center. Choice Cinema Series: “In the Footsteps of Gordon Parks – Half Past Autumn” is presented 1-3 p.m., Saturday, May 7. Learn about the life and career of Gordon Parks, who was a photographer, novelist, journalist, poet, musician and filmmaker. $5. Classica Chamber Players (formerly Hill House Chamber Players) perform in concert noon-1 p.m., Wednesday, May 11. Free. Choice Cinema Series: “In the Footsteps of Gordon Parks – The Learning Tree” is presented 3-5 p.m., Sunday, May 8. Newt Winger, an African-American teen in small-town Kansas in the 1920s, largely shrugs off the racial prejudice of his time and place. His calm and selfcontrolled perspective is in direct opposition to that of his quick-tempered friend, and when he witnesses a murder he realizes that reporting it to the police could jeopardize both his friendship and his life. $5. Choice Cinema Series: “In the Footsteps of Gordon Parks – Leadbelly” is presented 7-9 p.m., Friday, May 13. This biography of Huddie Ledbetter follows the trouble-prone AfricanAmerican blues singer and

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guitarist, better known as “Leadbelly,” as he deals with racism in his era and finds peace in his music. $5. “CARE: Exquisite Crankies” is held 1-3 p.m., Sunday, May 22. Visitors learn about crankies, a form of puppetry used to tell stories. This event explores the sense of imagination.

MN Children’s Museum 10 7th St. W. St. Paul 651-225-6000 www.mcm.org

“Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails” is on display through May 8. Travel to the Island of Sodor with Thomas and his friends to solve a variety of challenges, climb into Thomas’ cab, load freight into train cars and fix Percy’s wobbly wheel. “Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep: Shear Genius” is on display May 28 through this fall. Visitors can use iconic inventions at Wallace & Gromit’s home, blast off in Wallace’s bright orange rocket, tend sheep at Shaun’s farm and create their own stop-motion animation. “Shipwreck Adventures” is a new permanent exhibit. It includes a sunken pilot house and 20-foot-long decaying ship hull based on a real sunken ship, a diver training area and an interpretation of the natural landscape of Lake Superior’s north shore. Other exhibits and activities include The Scramble, The Studio, Creativity Jam, Sprouts, Backyard, Our World, Forces at Play, Super Awesome Adventures, Imaginopolis and the Tip Top Terrace. The museum is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Wed.-Sun. Tickets are $14.95.

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

“Mestizaje: Intermix-Remix” is on display through June 12. It is only on view from outside the Pioneer Endicott building, installed in the windows on Robert and 4th streets, and in the Ecolab entrance in the skyway. Determining one’s identity has been a constant and evolving concern for immigrants and descendants of Latin American countries living in the United States. Seven Latinx artists seek to engage people and community in conversation about the complexity of defining mixed identities through newly created artworks. “Mestizaje: Past, Present, Future” is held on Zoom, 6-7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 12. Join artists and scholars for an in-depth conversation about the evolving meaning of mestizaje (mixed race). The link to join can be found at www.mmaa.org.

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

“Legends and Lies” is presented 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 29. Cantus and the Bach Society of Minnesota use music to tell the story of the mischievous Till Eulenspiegel as he crossed a battle-weary Europe during the Thirty Years’ War. Tickets start at $12. “Accordo with Silent Film” is presented 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 10. Tickets start at $28. “At the Summit: B Minor Mass,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 14. The Bach Society of Minnesota, celebrating

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its 90th season, presents Bach’s transcendent setting of the traditional mass, his crowning achievement in a lifetime of sacred composition. Tickets are $35 with discounts for students and children under 12.

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Minnesota Roller Derby is held 7 p.m., April 30 and May 28. Tickets start at $12.

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“Atacama” is presented 7:30 p.m., April 28-30, and 2 p.m., May 1. Set in the landscape of Chile’s Atacama desert, this play takes the audience on a metaphoric quest beginning with two strangers searching for the remains of children killed by the Pinochet regime. Tickets start at $16. “Airness” is presented May 13-June 5. Five oddball rock fanatics travel to dingy

bars and cramped stages across the nation vying for a place at the National Air Guitar Championship. Tickets start at $16.

Schubert Club 75 W. 5th St. St. Paul 651-292-3268 www.schubert.org

A digital concert series is underway through June. Each concert is available for replay for one week. Imani Winds will have its presentation uploaded at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 28. Tickets are $10.

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

“Real STEM Stories” is a temporary exhibit in-person and online. Learn about professionals working in the STEM field. “Action for Earth” is held through May. It features exhibits associated with climate change. Omnitheater films are “Dinosaurs of Antarctica,” and “Under the Sea.” The-

ater tickets are $9.95, with discounts for children and seniors. Museum tickets are $19.95, with discounts for children and seniors.

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“Stars on Ice” is presented 4 p.m., Sunday, May 15. The event will feature many of the U.S. figure skaters competing for medals at the Winter Games in China. Tickets start at $30.

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C ommunity

Through the years, the City of South St. Paul has had the privilege of working with many South St. Paul youth who have given back to the community through the South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force, Read Across South St. Paul, student council and ambassadors, church youth groups and Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, just to name

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a few. While the coronavirus made it more difficult for these groups to meet and continue their work, many have thought outside the box to make things happen. Now that groups are meeting again the enthusiasm and excitement is back. Here is a sampling of how youth have stepped up for the community of South St. Paul over

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the past few months. Lincoln Center Ambassadors (4th and 5th grade students at Lincoln Center) brightened the day of seniors at the John Carroll and Nan McKay buildings by making special deliveries for Valentines Day and Easter. Wakota Ridge Campus youth groups created Valentine cards for senior citizens to let the seniors know they are not forgotten. Members of Boy Scout Troop 9095 completed three Eagle Scout projects. Tanner created four Veterans Memorial Flag boxes for families to display the American flag. These boxes were given to the Gallagher Hansen VFW Post 295 for distribution. Zane created four flag disposal boxes to place around the community. They are located at Central Square Community Center, Southern Funeral Home, Knowlan’s Fresh Foods and Ace Hardware in Inver Grove Heights. Members of the VFW will pick up the flags and properly dispose of them. Evan organized the 2022 South St. Paul

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South St. Paul Parks and Recreation has partnered with the cities of Mendota Heights and West St. Paul to organize a community bike ride, entitled Folks on Spokes. Details on this casual ride will be available in early May. Register at City Hall, 125 3rd Ave. N., South St. Paul, or online at southstpaul.org. Parks and Recreation is offering a wide variety of youth opportunities this summer, including field trips and several camps (sports, fitness, theater, preschool, etc.). For more information, visit www.southstpaul.org or call 651-366-6200. Mark your calendar for Wigglefest & MN Boxer Rescue’s (MNBR) Sweet 16th Birthday celebration, held 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, June 11 at the dog park at Kaposia Landing, 800 Bryant Ave. The event features MNBR merchandise, vendor booths, raffles, a silent auction, and food trucks. For more information, contact Tara at 763-647-3037 or visit mnboxerrescue. rescuegroups.org. Pool passes are now on sale at City Hall, 125 3rd Ave. N., Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Season passes are $40. Punch Cards are $45 (transferable).

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River Clean-up. More than 70 volunteers helped remove hundreds of plastic bottles and hundreds of pounds of trash along the banks of the Mississippi river. Read Across South St. Paul program volunteers have been reading to area students every Friday via Facebook. Students from Lincoln Center and Kaposia Education Center were the readers in February and March. The South St. Paul Mayor’s Youth Task Force helped with CommUNITY grams, the All Around 55075 Food Drive and Holiday Skates. We are so lucky and appreciative to have our youth stepping up and giving back to the community. On behalf of the City of South St. Paul, we extend a big thank you to everyone who volunteers their time. We will have many volunteer opportunities over the next few months, and we hope you’ll join us. For more information, contact Deb Griffith, community affairs, at 651554-3230 or Deb.griffith@ southstpaul.org.

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C ommunity

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Neighbors, Inc. Charlie Thompson President & CEO

Recently, I had the opportunity to spend time with some friends from college. The four of us had not been together in about 25 years. We shared about our families and jobs and spent time touring the college campus

where we met, trading stories from that time together. It didn’t take long before we were making new memories, and it was as if we had never gone our separate ways. Even though so much has changed

Postscript

My Grouchy Friends

I have a weakness for grouchy people. I have a couple of friends I would describe as perpetually grouchy and, I’m not quite sure why, but I think they’re good for me. To clarify, I’m not fond of being around people who are in the habit of deliberately messing up their lives. I think everyone has known at least one person like this, and it’s hard to watch. I see the train coming down the tracks. I hope my friend will alter course. I try not to be too bossy as I suggest it might be a good idea to get off the tracks. I nervously watch the train barreling straight for them. “Um, don’t you think it might be a good idea to, maybe, do something a little different? Because a train will come down these tracks sooner or later, and when it

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does…” My ideas are always rebuffed: There is no time. There is no energy. There is no need. Then I have to watch the crash, extend my sympathies, and listen to long explanations about how none of this was preventable and how life is terribly unfair. That is no fun. But being grouchy is different. My grouchy friends tell me that I am crazy for always

in each of our lives, the bond we formed so many years ago continued to strengthen during our time together. When I reflect on the history of Neighbors, it is not unlike the bond I share with my college friends, only with Neighbors it is a bond with the community. During the past 50 years, Neighbors has adapted to the needs of the community we serve. We have moved our operations on several occasions and made changes to our programs and services. Our volunteers and staff have changed, as have the people we serve. One of the constants has been the bond

of our organization with the community we serve and our neighbors in need. Through the years, in crisis and celebration, Neighbors has provided opportunities to thrive. Service to our community is at the foundation of what we do each day. That dedication to community service is what drives Beth Skwira, Neighbors’ director of mission advancement, to show up to work every day. It is also driving her to take on a new role as the next executive director of the South St. Paul Educational Foundation. Beth will be missed at Neighbors. However, the

community will continue to benefit as she assists with investing in the education of future generations of students. As for Neighbors, we will continue to evolve and support our neighbors in need. We will do so in part by promoting current team members and hiring new ones. Heidi Satre, who has been with us for more than seven years and oversees our events, marketing and communications, is our new community engagement director. She will manage a team that focuses on our external relationships, volunteers, donors and community

partners. Susan Schroeder has been promoted to associate director and manages our programs and services, advocacy efforts, and supports the day-to-day operations and strategy of Neighbors. Together, we will continue to work toward a day when all are nourished. While returning from my visit with my college friends, I reflected on our time together. Yes, we are older and grayer; but we are still pillars of support for each other. The same is true of Neighbors. At 50 years and going strong, we are a pillar of support for the communities we serve.

believing things will work out. Grouchy people assure me that there is something within them – their DNA, their upbringing, their carefully cultivated beliefs about how the world works – that justifies their pessimism. For some reason, this is like catnip to me. I’ve been trying to understand why. My husband, Peter, tells me I should steer clear of people who are not positive. Peter would like me to be around people who, if they are not quite as upbeat as I am, at least have a sunny view of the world. But I keep looking at folks who are surrounded by storm clouds and wanting to keep them company. Maybe I am some sort of competitive optimist, trying to conquer the most challenging pessimist to earn another notch in my optimist’s belt. Maybe it gets tiresome always hearing from people who believe as I do: that we are generally as happy as we make up our minds to be. Maybe I like hearing the op-

posing view to assure myself that, yes, I really do believe this stuff. Or maybe (and I worry this might be the case) optimism is like one of those religions where, in order to believe, you have to convince others to give it a try. I think it might be a little of all of the above. It might also be that I am genuinely curious. What would happen if I expected the worst? Would anything change? Because being optimistic invites injury. Plans fail.

People disappoint. Not everything works out as I hope. To be optimistic is to be vulnerable. And I don’t actually think I started out as an optimistic person. I just allowed myself to be hopeful and discovered that things worked out, even when – especially when – it didn’t look as if they would. And so I kept on hoping. Becoming optimistic was like building

disappointment. I try to explain that pessimism is an indiscriminate herbicide – it kills both the crops and the weeds. But, so far, my attempts to convert my grouchy friends to optimism have failed. It doesn’t matter. I know I’m right. I couldn’t be an optimist and think otherwise. Till next time.

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a muscle. Hope resulted in more things to be hopeful about. My grouchy friends guard against injury by keeping their hopes low. Their pessimism protects them from

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South St. Paul Voice - May 2022 - Page 9

N ews Briefs Student notes

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Rummage sale

Milwaukee School of Luther Memorial Church, Engineering honors list: 315 15th Ave. N., South St. Connor Sadowski Paul, is hosting a rummage Minnesota Connections sale April 28-30. Hours are Academy: Gabriella Laroche 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, was recently named student 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and ofSPV-FLMar2022V-Eng.qxp_Layout the month 9 a.m.-noon Saturday. For 1 more information, call Shirley at 651-455-5820 or the church at 651-451-2400.

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Neighbors, Inc. awarded Neighbors, Inc. has garnered yet another accolade for its service to people in South St. Paul and northern Dakota County. The South St. Paul-based nonprofit, which provides food, clothing, emergency assistance grants and more to those in need, recently received the South St. Paul/Inver Grove Heights Rotary Club’s 2022

Service to Others Humanitarian Recognition. Neighbors will receive the award at the club’s annual banquet and fundraiser on Thursday, May 5 at Southview Country Club in West St. Paul. To register or for more information, contact Jon Girard at 612-247-7859. “For the past five decades, Neighbors has supported our neighbors during some of the most challenging points in their lives,” said Beth Skwira, Neighbors’ director of mission advancement. “We could not have done it without the generosity of our community. It has been a privilege to serve others together.” The South St. Paul/Inver Grove Heights Rotary Club is part of Rotary International, a global network of clubs that provide service to

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others, promotes integrity, and advances goodwill and peace through the fellowship of business and community leaders. The club meets Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. at Stockyards Tavern and Chophouse in South St. Paul.

Garden club plant sale The South St. Paul Garden Club will present its 32nd annual plant sale May 20-21 in the gardens of Van and Linda Nelson, 1900 Burma Ln., South St. Paul. Hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m.-noon on Saturday. All plants are locally grown by area gardeners. You’ll find perennials, hostas, hybrid lilies, specialty shrubs, herbs, annuals, vegetables and more. Gardeners will be on site to offer information on specific plants and garden design. Social distancing is encouraged. Masks are optional. Proceeds will benefit the South St. Paul Educational Foundation. To date, the club has donated more than $25,000 to the foundation to pay for transportation costs for

South St. Paul kindergartners visiting Dodge Nature Center. The club also sponsors an annual scholarship to a South St. Paul High School graduate pursuing a degree in horticulture or landscape architecture. For directions to the sale or for more information, contact Carol at 651-261-4466 or CarolMladek@gmail.com.

Library events Spring Book Sale, May 2-6. The sale features children’s and adult materials available for purchase. A $1 bag sale will take place throughout the sale. Book Club, 7-8 p.m., Thursday, May 12 at the library. “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett is the title discussed. For more details, visit tinyurl.com/SSPbookclub. Tech Tutoring - Librarians can assist patrons with downloading an eBook, an introduction to Microsoft Word, setting up a Facebook page, saving files to a flash drive and other basic technology issues. To schedule a 30-minute appointment, contact Honora at 651-554-

3243 or hrodriguez@sspmn. org.

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 www. 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 www. sspps.org or call 651-4579400. The South St. Paul-Inver Grove Heights Rotary Club meets at 12:15 p.m. each Wednesday. For more information, visit https:// rotary5960.org/clubInfo/ south-st-paul-inver-groveheights. 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 https://ssplions.org.

The World is a Great Big Place We proudly cover just a tiny portion of it. Community news specifically for community-minded people in... • Downtown St. Paul • The West Side • West St. Paul • South St. Paul • Sunfish Lake • Lilydale • Mendota Heights

To submit news or advertising to reach 37,500 homes in the greater St. Paul area and the Latino market of the Twin Cities, call 651-457-1177. Check us out at www.stpaulpublishing.com. Page 10 - South St. Paul Voice - May 2022

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

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

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

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

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South St. Paul Voice - May 2022 - Page 11

B ack in Time

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Anniversaries Abound istory is often remembered because significant anniversaries are celebrated. In 2022, South St. Paul is commemorating several significant dates that reflect the ever changing and diverse developments in the community. The South St. Paul Library is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year with a series of special events and opportunities. I recently presented a history of the library, which can be viewed by visiting the South St. Paul Public Library Facebook page. The difficult days of its early years, the

infamous book thief of the 1990s, and plans for a new library at Seventh and Marie are included in the program. The creation of the library represented a desire on the part of many to bring cultural and educational opportunities to the rapidly growing city before World War I. Neighbors, Inc., is commemorating the 50th year of its founding in South St. Paul in 1972. The story of Neighbors is the story of the creation of the new way of addressing poverty and family needs that was sweeping across the country. Swift and Co. had closed and many people were out of work for the first time. Local pastors

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and their congregations realized there was no agency in South St. Paul to help families who were struggling. Through this awareness, a group of 16 men and women from four South St. Paul churches met at Luther Memorial Church on December 9, 1971. On January 13, 1972, the group met again, this time with 18 representatives from six local churches. Churches who sent leaders to the meeting included First Presbyterian Church of South St. Paul, Luther Memorial, St. John Vianney, Clark Memorial, Holy Trinity and First United Methodist. They created a new organization, with no name at the time, whose purpose was, “Providing neighborly assistance in an organized fashion, primarily through the use of volSTATEThey FARM unteers.” named the Stremski Agency Inc. new group Neighbors, at their next meeting on Feb1560 Livingston Ave. ruary 10,101, 1972. Suite West St. Paul The South St. Paul Garden Hogar Club is celebrating its 30th Automóvil anniversary. They weren’t Seguro Vida the first gardende club in the city – other groups had come 651-457-6348

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The South St. Paul Library is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The South St. Paul Garden Club turns 30, and Neighbors, Inc. commemorates its 50th year.

and gone over the years – but this one was focused on introducing the joys of gardening to a whole new generation, as well as helping experienced gardeners develop new skills. Fifteen people are listed as charter members and the name of the organization was Community Gardeners of South St. Paul. Among the charter members are Becky Finkle and Carolyn Stombaugh, who are still members today, and Lois Swanson, who recently retired from the club. Many of the other original members have passed away or moved to other commu-

nities. On February 11, 2002, the club officially voted to change the name to South St. Paul Garden Club. The club is known for its an annual plant sale, which features locally grown perennials donated by club members. In 2002, the club presented its first Community Garden Tour, featuring local gardens open to the public. The tour allows participants to view gardens chosen for their design, creativity and overall excellence, and to meet the gardeners. The club now has 41 members. It has been as

high as 70 in recent years. For the last several years, the club has donated $2,500 annually to the South St. Paul Educational Foundation to provide funds for South St. Paul kindergarten classes to visit Dodge Nature Center. The club is preparing for this year’s plant sale, held May 20-21 at 1900 Burma Lane. Meetings are held at the South St. Paul High School on the last Monday of each month, and usually feature a guest speaker. Membership dues are $15 a year, an amount that hasn’t changed for more than 20 years. Visitors are welcome to attend.

Acacia Park Cemetery Established in 1925, the 75-acre park offers a pristine beauty and strategic location that was recognized by our state’s earliest settlers. Pilot Knob, the plateau on which Acacia Park is situated, was an early 19th Century viewing point for such frontiersmen as Zebulon Pike and Josiah Snelling.

A Day of Remembrance Memorial Day is May 30

Please join us at 10 a.m. for a Memorial Day Celebration at Acacia Park

Our beautiful cemetery is conveniently situated on the Pilot Knob plateau above the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers in Mendota Heights. We are proud of our majestic scenery and natural environment that is uninhibited by upright monuments, which creates a stunning park-like setting. We have provided quality, personal service to families since 1925. We offer the following options to our families:

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Sections specifically designed for casket or cremation burial Convenient no-interest pre-payment plans for three years No-obligation information and tour of the cemetery grounds Markers, vaults, vases and urns for purchase Newly developed cremation gardens Serving all faiths

2151 Pilot Knob Road, Mendota Heights | 651-452-1555 | www.acaciaparkcemetery.org Page 12 - South St. Paul Voice - May 2022