In This Issue Federation Update • P2 West End Healthline • P3 Small Business • P5 Theatre Review • P6 Journeys School • P7 Returning to Faith • P8 55+ Calendar • P9 THE LAB Bulletin Board • P10 MARCH 2012 Vol. 42 No. 3 Circulation 13,000 Page 7

NEIGHBORS SPEAK OUT Let’sLet’s GetGet Is there a Pattern Here? itit RightRight A Letter from The Friends of Lilydale Park by grit youngquist & jon kerr

We have tried to represent our 13 years of interactions with literally thousands W of Lilydale Park users, during which three main priorities have consistently been identified: 1. Protect and interpret the unique natural and historical elements and character of NEIGHBORS the park; 2. Appropriately (in keeping with #1) improve trail and water access SPEAK OUT opportunities; and 3. Add limited public amenities that have a small eco-footprint and impact on the park experience, Share Your Ideas for a Great Community Park: As the GRP and Victoria Park planning processes continue, Community Reporter will dedicate this space therefore: small scale, well-designed and to sharing your ideas. West End resident Lori Harris says: “Victoria Park is a part of the West End. The West End is sorely in need of true green space. The citizens of the West End have a vision of the park as a place rich with a connection to the river. Let us hope that our voices will be heard and that the democratic process environmentally sensitive: restrooms, can still be found in the West End and in our city.” Credit: St. Paul Parks & Recreation. small gathering areas for environmental education/interpretation (that include by kent petterson rushing toward approval. soccer in the GRP plan, but added “the fire circles), and a dog park. It received mixed reaction, my My piece was offered as opinion; I did sketch on page 128 shows light standards on Sadly, we have to report seeing contribution to the Great River strive for accuracy of fact. I wish I had a flat expanse of green, (and) we believe that very little of those public interests Passage (GRP) proposal debate that impression of striving for accuracy in this is a true depiction of the various ideas represented in a Lilydale plan “final” in last month’s Community the consultant work in the GRP proposal that have been discussed.” design presented by staff and consultants to us for the first time February 6. Reporter. Neighbors offered officially offered to the City on January 11. On January 28 the Community Reporter Instead, we see a project driven by staff support and congratulations We have come to learn from St. Paul Parks was out on the street and on February 2 insistence on a major road redesign and and one cited an “even-handed” and Recreation (Parks) that as far back as Parks finally gave up on the last vestige parking lots they maintain are necessary approach. From the City, one August 15, 2011, Parks had resolved to of soccer in the GRP, the lighted field remove any reference to the soccer complex illustration on P.128. It took from August first steps — with all other Lilydale official labeled my piece as “a Regional Park Master Plan elements wealth of inaccurate information.” I had in the GRP proposal. Yet the plan was 15 to February 2 for Parks to resolve a published on December 15 and posted on second time not to prejudge the Victoria put off into the undefined future. Parks offered criticism of the GRP proposal for staff plan to begin construction on their its inclusion of a soccer complex at Victoria the GRP website with those pesky soccer Park advisory process that is just beginning. fields still mentioned and shown numerous If you wish to comment on the future of priorities by early summer. Park and for the implementation structure This comes even as Parks staff finally in Chapter 7 of a new River Division with times. It wasn’t until mid January at the Victoria Park, please contact the Fort Road urging of Fort Road Federation President Federation: fortroadfed@fortroadfederation. confirmed our long-suspected fears of unnamed nonprofit and action committee an approximately $700,000 budget gap Tonya Nicholie-Johnson that Parks asked her org or 651-298-5599. partners. One thing my opinion piece did that should seemingly force even more was to undermine the assertion that this for a list of the mistaken soccer references, About my Neighbor Speaks Out piece, a focus on public priorities. Yet, staff proposal had gained consensus, which I had indicating they still wanted to remove the city official commented “I always thought reaction has been to put off funding heard at a recent meeting. I am not the only soccer complex. you were one of the most informed, items such as restrooms, small scale one who would be offended to be included On or about January 19, Parks indicated most involved and most supportive of the public shelters, many trail and water as agreeing with this current proposal they would be removing the references to Passage, pg 2 access improvements and other elements of the Master Plan, which the public had welcomed. In addition, the Feb. 6 final plan drawings allowed no vehicular access to Pickerel Lake, thus eliminating Smarter Travel Around St. Paul or greatly diminishing, current patterns by sharon mccord of use enjoyed by many people with non- motorized boats — including easy access Thanks to funding by the City of St. for ice fishing. Paul and St. Paul Smart Trips, modish bi- Over the past several years we have cycle parking racks that look like artwork tried in multiple ways to raise all these grace the front of a dozen West Seventh concerns with Saint Paul Parks & businesses. Promotion of bicycling as an Recreation staff, leadership and their alternative to driving is part of Smart consultants. Especially given the new Trips’ vision. budget shortfall, we have asked if it St. Paul Smart Trips, a nonprofit wouldn’t be prudent to implement the organization, strives to improve access road redesign in stages. We specifically and mobility for those traveling in and suggested a way initial road work could around St. Paul. Through collaboration be done to address most needed road with individuals, organizations and gov- improvements (east entrance into signed to reduce traffic congestion and economical ways to reduce automobile ernment, Smart Trips promotes sustain- the park up to the narrow railroad improve air quality. travel. able transportation such as improved underpass), while allowing funding for Smart Trips offers many programs According to Jessica Treat, Executive transit services, new and safer bicycle at least some of the other desired park and services in sustainable transporta- Director of St. Paul Smart Trips, “We and pedestrian pathways, and less use of improvements. Staff and consultants tion including their signature program, need to create better options to car trav- single occupant vehicles. seemed reluctant to even consider such the Neighborhoods program which has el, make people aware of those options, St. Paul Smart Trips, created in 2008 options, though they admitted these reached three St. Paul neighborhoods so and get people to overcome barriers and from the merger of two transportation ideas would not be impossible. far — Summit-University, Union Park try something new.” management organizations, is funded We continue to believe that there and Highland Park. The Neighborhoods To promote the Neighborhoods pro- by Bike Walk Twin Cities and a federal must be better options that fit with both program helps St. Paul residents explore gram, Smart Trips sponsors workshops, program, Congestion Mitigation and Air the new budget situation and the long- options like walking, biking and tran- bike rides and neighborhood walks. In Quality Improvement, which is de- term Lilydale Regional Park Master Plan sit and learn about healthy, green, and »SMART TRIPS, pg 3 goals. We would be happy to talk with or provide information: lilydalepark@ oldmanriver.com or 651-227-2264. visit our website: www.communityreporter.org »lilydale, pg 2 2 COMMUNITY REPORTER MARCH 2012 The Fort Road Federation board meeting was FEDERATIONUPDATE held on February 13 at 974 West Seventh. by Erik Hare Next meeting: March 12. Info: 651-298-5599 editorial page or fortroadfederation.org. The letters, opinions, and editorials expressed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the Board of Directors of this newspaper or any of our advertisers or sponsors. Great River Passage Kent Petterson, who has been the Federation’s main A packed house greeted a presentation by Don Ganje, representative on the committee that drafted the plan, Bring on the Heat project manager for the Great River Passage Master Plan, had many comments to help guide the audience towards which dominated the Federation meeting. This plan is an understanding of the process. The area around Victoria Raffle Supports Meals on Wheels expected to govern the next two generations of city efforts Park was highlighted in his remarks. “We have great over- In Ramsey County there are nine Meals program and have along the entire 26 miles of Mississippi shoreline and look at Otto which is now slated for development, but not on Wheels programs serving hot daily a chance at some 3,500 acres of parks through St. Paul. The audience lis- shown as such in the maps — why can’t the City retain tened intently through the formal part of the presentation, at least an easement at the bluff?” Don Ganje agreed home-delivered meals to seniors and per- great prizes — which included a video depicting what the Mississippi completely, saying, “We are trying to preserve this overlook sons with disabilities in the community. more than $7,000 could look like when the plan is fully implemented. with an easement right now with Planning and Economic The West Seventh Community Center is worth. These The website greatriverpassage.org contains much more Development (PED).” There was much more discussion of one of them, with a care of volunteers who include massages, information, including the entire Master Plan for everyone possible uses of this area and the potential soccer fields, do more than deliver the meals—they of- golf packages, gift certificates, a laptop to read. Reactions are being collected by the Federation which continued after the plan presentation. ten provide that touch of personal contact computer, overnight packages and more. for inclusion in this public comment period, and should be In general, the audience was attentive and curious, and concern that can make a huge differ- Tickets are $10 each and can be pur- directed to [email protected]. more interested in learning about the city’s effort and ence to someone who is mostly at home. chased at the West Seventh Community The theme for this plan is “More Natural, More Urban, generally supportive. Meals on Wheels of Ramsey County is Center until March 19. The drawing will and More Connected.” Main goals include restoring a tax-exempt nonprofit corporation that be on March 26, but you do not have to be natural habitat wherever possible. Daylighting of buried Soccer Fields at Victoria Park streams is also important, especially Hidden Falls Creek. Potential soccer fields at Victoria Park have been an depends partly on fund raising to sustain present to win. Call the Center for further “More Urban” means more social gathering places along issue for three years, and have had strong opposition in its program. This year’s Bring on the information: 651-298-5493. the Mississippi — namely as an environmental learning the neighborhood. The City wants to restart a new process Heat Raffle is a way to both support the center in the Watergate Marina area, and the river opened through the Parks Commission in the form of a carefully up to fishing and small boats. River Balconies at bluff crafted task force. Negotiations with Parks as to how it level are planned from the Science Museum to Union will be structured have produced some changes: a fifth Depot, connecting from there to Trout Brook trail. slot for resident representation, four to five meetings in “More Connected” refers to neighborhood connec- total, selection through an application process with the West 7th tions, including a number of trails and bridges. This also Fort Road Federation and Parks, and slots for various includes downgrading of Shepard Road to a four lane self-identified people and many of the other immediate Winter Coat parkway-like road, narrowed and more heavily planted to interests right around it such as Nova Classical Academy, bring down speeds, with new signage and interpretation Sholom, Mississippi Market and the like. Dave Bredemus, Drive all along the corridor. who along with Tonya Nicholie-Johnson has headed up the The neighbors gathered had many questions and Federation’s effort, was not sure if there was any alterna- immediate reactions to the detailed proposals. John Yust tive to participating, but remained hopeful. “If people are had particular concerns for the connection at and along committed and the bodies show up we will make it work,” Randolph Avenue. “Lack of a strong visualization leaves he said. this plan lacking and harder to implement,” he stated. The group will make a design level master plan for Don Ganje responded by suggesting that this should be the park, totally separate from the Great River Passage fleshed out with a more focused group to provide the timeline. The Federation’s role is to co-chair the Task Force details necessary. “I would encourage you to put these and relay information and support from the community ideas down and give input to this process.” as needed. The process was approved through a motion Concern was also raised about the lack of interest in by the board on the condition that it is designed to seek Fountain Cave, original home of Pierre “Pig’s Eye” Parrant consensus, not force items through on a majority vote. and the founding of the city. Don Ganje was sympathetic, Those interested in participating in the Task Force saying, “The only study we have on this says that opening should contact the Federation at 651-298-5599 or e-mail up Fountain Cave is impractical, but perhaps we should to [email protected]. Participation should look more closely at that.” No plan of action was endorsed. be considered a major commitment, and those who

Becoming a Community of Reporters We encourage readers to become more involved on the creative side of things. Discuss the possibilities at [email protected], or leave a message at 651-665-0068. I’ll respond quickly.

West 7th Business Association To learn about the West 7th Business Association, email info@ west7thbusinessassociation, or visit west7thbusinessassociation.com. The W7BA Enhancement Coalition meets the first Thursday of the month, 11 a.m., at various locations. Call 651-665-0068 for details. Any resident, proprietor or stakeholder is welcome to attend.

The West 7th community has once again shown their giving spirit through this year’s Winter Coat Drive for »passage, pg 1 and ideas included. We have a change of Joseph’s Coat. Donation sites were hosted by five character for Shepard Road, which I had West 7th businesses and approximately 420 items of GRP process. What happened??” Well, I said at the first meeting needed to be safer winter wear were gathered. Shown here with Bank was, I am and what happened? I read the for crossing of pedestrians and bikers or the Cherokee’s bounty of 246 items are Bankers Mary document when it came out on December proposal would have “come up short.” There Kamarainen (l) and Alicia Cramer. Donation sites were also is much to like. also sponsored by American Bank, Fresh Grounds 15. I was shocked at how much of the final GRP document had not been discussed in We have heard from the City and agree Coffee, Shamrock’s and Cooper’s Foods. Joseph’s Coat that this is the people’s plan for its vision 265 Oneida St. St Paul, MN 55102 has been serving our neediest neighbors in St. Paul the Advisory Committee process. Soccer and the surrounding Twin Cities communities since was there, but now it is removed; the of the river, and I would like to get it WEBSITE: communityreporter.org 1989. This free store provides clothing, household references to river and community parks right. As those who have examined the items, personal hygiene products, and children’s items. were sloppy consultant work; from where proposal carefully are finding, the proposal BOARD OF DIRECTORS Approximately 950 individuals are served each week was the money for a budget of $9 million has enough that is problematical in small through the dedicated efforts of volunteers. Donations dollars for the river division coming? The and big ways that indicate the need for Roger Belfay Board Chair may be dropped off on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 improvement, correction and revision. All Maxine McCormick Vice Chair a.m. until 2 p.m., or by appointment. implementation language in chapter 7 was not fully descriptive and troubling especially citizens, district councils and responding Julie Borgerding Secretary bodies should take a long hard look at the Jill Seeba Treasurer for the Action Committee. Why were the SITES sustainability benchmarks discussed details and take as much time as necessary Corky Newton, Kathy Clark, to make sure we have a plan that lives up to Jerry Rothstein, Mary Esch Members Volunteers Needed for without mentioning or reconciling to the fact that most of the 3500 acres is in the what we all expect for the city. I continue to EDITORIAL Annual Citywide Cleanup flood plain? Where was an overlay map believe this adoption process is scheduled to go too fast to achieve the document that the Jerry Rothstein Editor 651-665-0068 in the proposal showing the 100-year The City of St. Paul Parks and Recreation city deserves. What exactly is the rush? This [email protected] Department is recruiting volunteers for the flood plain? Why is a $7.5 million dollar Environmental Learning Center proposed is a plan for the next 50 years and we should Maxine McCormick Contributing Editor annual Citywide Cleanup event on April take time to get it right. [email protected] 14. Groups or individuals can sign-up at for Watergate in the flood plain? Why stpaul.gov/parks/environment. Each spring, was a clear overlay map and discussion of Lou “The Photo Guy” Michaels Staff Photographer approximately 1,000 community volunteers the Critical Area of the National Park not Contact information: ADVERTISING unite to remove tons of trash from St. Paul’s included? The current site for the Patrick’s Fort Road Federation: 651-298-5599 or Corky Newton, Ad Manager, 612-220-2978 parks, natural areas, recreation centers, and Mound memorial at Victoria Park is terrible; [email protected]. [email protected] neighborhoods. This important event helps Why was the grade-separated crossing at Mayor Chris Coleman: 651-266-8510 ensure the beauty, safety and environmental Walnut now out of the plan on one map or https://www.stpaul.gov/forms. Jean-Marie Sohlden, 651-278-7837 and still shown on a second map when it [email protected] health of the city. Volunteers pick up their aspx?FID=69. supplies at one of four Kickoff Celebrations was favored by neighborhood committee Council Member Dave Thune: 651-266- across the city, and then go to the park, members and clearly in the GRP plan back 8621 or [email protected]. LAYOUT/GRAPHIC DESIGN in June? This grade separation was the last In-Fin Tuan Graphic Designer natural area, or neighborhood of their choice Mike Hahm, Director, Parks & Rec: to pick up trash. major piece to complete the only bike path 651-266-6409 0r [email protected]. going north in that area. BOOKKEEPING: Steven Shimer, 651-224-4034 Kickoff Celebrations begin at 8:30 a.m., mn.us. with cleanups from 9 to 11 a.m. In the We do have lovely pictures, aspirations AD DEADLINE & MEETING West Seventh area, Fresh Grounds has Copy Deadline/Meeting: March 19 offered to be the Kickoff location — 1362 »LILYDALE, pg 1 funds paid for by all surrounding cities West Seventh. Volunteers in other areas and citizens. Please ask staff and elected Ad Deadline: March 23 pick up supplies and enjoy complimentary We urge anyone concerned to contact officials to look seriously at alternatives Third Monday of each month. Articles should be refreshments at one the following Kickoff Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Director, before locking into an approach that typed, double spaced. The editor reserves the Celebrations between 8:30 and 9 a.m.: Mike Hahm: 651-266-6400 or michael. changes the park without clearly addressing right to edit submitted copy. We can design your • Como Lakeside Pavilion (1360 N. Lex- [email protected]; Saint Paul Mayor top public priorities. ads, camera ready, tiff or jpeg files on disk. ington Pkwy.) Chris Coleman: 651-266-8510 or chris. Everyone wants to have a process and [email protected]; and for Saint ultimately a Lilydale Park we can be DISTRIBUTION: Independent Delivery Service • Harriet Island Pavilion (200 Dr. Justus Ohage Blvd.) Paulites, your City Council member: 651- proud of. We believe democracy and good PRINTING: Cannon Valley Printing • Highland Pavilion (1200 Montreal Ave.) 266-8560. planning is not always something that • Phalen Pavilion (1600 Phalen Dr.). If you don’t live in Saint Paul but love can be rushed and certainly not decided Online registration is available at stpaul. Lilydale Park, your voice is important. without full public input. We urge all While this is a City of Saint Paul plan gov/parks/environment. For more informa- parties to reconsider and look closely at all visit our website (Saint Paul Parks & Recreation manages the options before jumping into a decision that tion e-mail [email protected] park), Lilydale is a regional park and the communityreporter.org or call 651-632-2411. could set the tone for how we all ultimately plan in question will utilize Met Council view and experience Lilydale Park. FUN, FUNKY & MARCH 2012 COMMUNITY REPORTER 3 Immanuel Baptist community well-being FABULOUS! Church We welcome you to Worship with us on: Gabriela Sweet: Artist and Neighbor Sunday by STINA JACOX 10am Bible Study On a blustery Sunday in 10:45am Worship 750 Watson Ave. January, the sounds of 453 West Seventh Wednesday St. Paul, MN Rhizosphere emanate from St. Paul 7pm Bible Study/Prayer 651-227-5075 the tropical garden at the Como Park Conservatory. 651-224-1357 Immanuel Baptist is an independent church The group, featured as STORE HOURS: part of the Music Under Mon-Wed/Fri 10am-5pm Thu 10am-8pm Glass series, ignores the Sat 10am-4pm Sun 12-4pm occasional drip of condens- Serving St. Paul AUTHENTIC tion and mesmerizes their audience with the lush sounds of Native Chinese Food for Generations! American and Chinese flutes, clarinet, gui- tar, accordion, and steel guitar. The latter GOLDEN two instruments are the specialty of Ga- briela Sweet, a 13 year resident of Watson CHOW MEIN Street in the West Seventh neighborhood. Eat-in or Take-out Although her day job is as a coordinator RANDOLPH AVENUEMon-Sat 11-8 at the Liberal Arts Language Center at the Closed Sundays University of Minnesota, Gabriela is firmly rooted in the world of music; in particular Zydeco and indigenous music. A founding

ARMSTRONG BAY STREET member of the bands ZoloGo and Bayou K risten H aler WEST SEVENTH STREET Hazard, she has played bottleneck slide Gabriela Sweet 1105 W. 7TH ST guitar and accordion all over the region. In bor, and thoughtful observer is evident in 2005, Gabriela appeared with Mila Vocal her love of Crosby Farm Regional Park. 651-228-1276 Ensemble on A Prairie Home Companion. “Crosby is a big deal for me. The river is Currently she plays accordion with Z Pup- a constant, and it is constantly changing, pets Rosenschnoz (zpuppets.org/home), a which means that all the land around it Minneapolis based puppetry company “on constantly changes too. Sometimes we a mission to delight children and adults can’t get onto many of the trails at Crosby with feats of imagination.” because it’s flooded, or maybe we try it Gabriela attributes her passion and apti- anyway, and get ‘brownie feet’ (where your tude for music to her parents. “Music was shoes get so covered with mud that you can always present in my house, growing up. hardly walk). At the end of summer we go My mother was an amazing vocalist, classi- out on the Magnolia riverboat with Jazz 88’s cally trained. She also played the piano and evening cruise, enjoying great live music and organ, and directed choirs. My dad also the beautiful summer night. People go and had a wonderful voice.” hang out on the little dock and enjoy the One of the factors that led her, and part- last bits of warmth.” ner, Mike, to buy on Watson, was Mahler If you would like to meet Gabriela, she Music Center at 907 Randolph, just three will be appearing with Z Puppets in March. blocks away. “I go there pretty often; The performance dates are March 12th at they do great work on my accordions, and Highland Park Library (10:30 to 11:15 a.m.) maybe someday I’ll actually buy a new one and March 16th at Rondo Library (11 a.m. from them!” She notes that on a recent to noon). She will play accordion for their work day she was waiting for the bus and production: “In a Fool’s Kitchen: A Classic saw Ken from Mahler’s. “He stopped to Battle between Chef and Lobster.” Review- chat and asked ‘How’s that accordion doing ers rave, “Z Puppets Rosenschnoz is Muppet- for you? Holding up okay?’ Where else but class” and “Bursts at the seams with wild in West Seventh, eh??” energy, creative genius and sheer fun!” Affairs of the stomach also influenced Although Gabriela is not currently their choice of property! Hot City sand- scheduled to play any gigs in the West wiches have been on the menu for Mike End, her fans would like it if she would. • since the 1980s. Gabriela notes they still If you want to hear some Zydeco to • go there for food at least once a week. warm up a chilly spring night, email The fusion of Gabriela as artist, neigh- [email protected]. Minnesota Website on Health Reform The Minnesota Health Care Reform tools for Minnesota to cover the unin- West End Healthline Task Force has created a new website sured, build the health care workforce, that will serve as a clearinghouse for prevent illness and contain health care information on Minnesota’s health costs. Throughout the website, the term A Medical Student’s Perspective reform efforts. The website provides in- “health reform” includes both state and by Kathleen mahan is strictly a professional one, then why is formation on how health reform affects federal laws and policies. she greeting us at the door with such ease? individuals, families, and businesses. It The website is at: healthreform. It was my first home visit. The concept She welcomes us inside from the cold. Dr. also contains basic facts about health mn.gov. Governor Dayton issued an was new to me because I thought home R. and I step across the open threshold. reform in Minnesota, and opportunities executive order last October establish- visits were things of the past. I was still The apartment is small, L-shaped, to connect to activities in the state. ing a Vision for Health Care Reform in sorting out my feelings about this. How with only one additional door leading to The website uses the term “health Minnesota. The order charges the Min- personal. How strange. How outdated this the bathroom. The wall paint is peeling. reform” in a way that encompasses poli- nesota Health Care Reform Task Force, seemed. Instead of remaining in the com- Personal effects are minimal, with no cies and partnerships to improve health along with members of the governor’s forting confines of the clinic with similarly pictures of family members, friends, or and lower health care costs. Minnesota cabinet, to develop an action plan for dressed staff — whom I had grown to loved ones. Did this lack of intimacy make has a long history of reform and, most reforming how we deliver and pay for know, glistening examination rooms, and it easier to invite us inside? Her friendli- recently in 2008, passed a state health health care in the state. The task force abounding medical supplies — we would ness has never been scarce. Dr. R. answers reform law that improves community includes leaders from business, labor, be entering a patient’s apartment. A place a phone call so I am able to take my time. health, patient experience and afford- foundations, the public sector and that, likely, lacked the seeming sterility of Besides, he has done a ton of home visits. ability of health care. In 2010, federal Minnesota’s health care organizations. the clinic, with little medical assistance I take the details in and converse with health reform (the Affordable Care For more information, contact Jeremy nearby if needed. With unfamiliar faces in her. She seems a little nervous. When Act) became law, providing additional Drucker, Minnesota Department of the halls who would be dressed with the the medical concerns are discussed she apparel of the city. A place which keeps relaxes. A little. She tells me she does not my patient. A place where she spends like to leave her home for fear of being »SMART TRIPS, pg 1 walking. Treat said the Neighborhoods most of her time. Those four walls and harassed and bullied in the streets. Her addition, a direct mailing to each house- program is currently being tweaked, with roof surround her day and night. Shel- tiny home is situated in the heart of the hold offers motivational materials they the hope of bringing the program to every tering her from the outside, and within city, and there are always people milling can order such as pedometers, reflective St. Paul neighborhood. which are her worries, her burdens, her around. This is why she has missed several leg bands, tote bags, and Metro passes. Additional Smart Trips outreach efforts joys, and her dreams. appointments at the clinic. She did not Residents are encouraged to set goals for include free services to employers that help The walls I will be seeing are the walls relate this over the phone when I asked. increased use of noncar travel, record their develop and support employee transporta- which provide protection, comfort, maybe The sounds of the city are easy to come trips, then mail in the completed trip log to tion options. “The goal,” said Treat, “is for anguish, frustration. How trusting she by here. To some they motivate, promis- receive prizes like Metro Go-to cards. the employer to offer bus passes, bicycle must be to invite us into her home! What ing adventure, action, and mystery. To Treat said the term “active transportation” parking or HourCar service instead of sub- qualifications give us this privilege? Is it the owner of this small apartment in the best describes one of the Neighborhoods sidized car parking.” Treat said that Smart the white jackets we wear, or the knowl- heart of the city, these sounds bind her program goals. For example, bicycling Trips, located in downtown St. Paul, offers edge we have garnered through the years inside her home. As we leave, she remains to work is “active transportation” that its employees HourCar service for short and have shared with her, which allow behind. Inside her home with the peeling accomplishes several things at once — it trips while at work. HourCar is a St. Paul her to open her door to essentially two paint. saves money, helps the environment, and service with car rental membership plans as strangers? Perhaps we are not strang- an alternative to car ownership. Kathy Mahan is a third-year medical provides exercise so that a trip to the gym ers, and if not, what words describe this student rotating at United Family Medicine. isn’t necessary. The Ride Match program helps com- relationship? Most doctors do not visit muters find someone who lives and works This reflection is used with the patient’s In the 2010 Highland Park Neighbor- their patients’ homes. If the relationship permission. hoods program, which cost $134,000 near them to share rides. Also, Smart Trips according to the published report, more hosts commuter fairs, conducts surveys than 1,000 residents were engaged; 83% of employees’ commuter preferences and of survey respondents reported taking educates employers about federal and state communityreporter.org new biking, walking or transit trips; 3% tax savings available to them for adopting of respondents reported increased biking, better commuter options. CHECK OUT OUR REDESIGNED SITE! while 5% of respondents reported increased »SMART TRIPS, pg 8 4 COMMUNITY REPORTER MARCH 2012 Whole Wide World @ West 7th Public Library Lisa Hage, West Seventh Librarian community news & events 2012 Sustainable St. Paul Awards Mayor Chris Coleman is encouraging Composting and Recycling, Environ- individuals, businesses and organiza- mental Education and Awareness, Green tions to submit applications for the 2012 Products and Practices, Youth Leader- Sustainable St. Paul Awards, which ship (18 years and under), Sustainable march is green at west 7th West 7th Library Hours honor the work being done to protect City Staff Awards andExceptional Think green this month at the W7th Library. Mon 12:30-8pm. Tue 11:30am-5:30pm. and restore the environment in St. Paul. Environmental Steward. Save your green by checking out instead of buying Wed 10am-5:30pm. Thu 12:30-8pm. Nominations are due on March 23. Nomination forms are available at books, DVDs and CDs. Why pay for magazines Fri 10am-5:30pm. Closed weekends, holidays. “Over the past several years, we have www.stpaul.gov. Click on Sustainable that you could check out at your library? Think Info: 651-298-5516 taken deliberate steps to improve build- St. Paul listed under City Projects. Judg- green and consult the Consumer Reports before you make those big purchases, like cars and ing efficiency, energy production, and ing will be conducted by members of computer skills, job search assistance and help our environment, making St. Paul a Sustainable St. Paul Working Group and refrigerators. Use one of our Power Check Meters to monitor the energy use of your appliances and with brushing up your résumé. national leader in environmental sustain- others in the environmental community. Green up your self, with exercise DVDs and ability. I am proud that St. Paul hosts E-mail completed nomination forms electronics — very efficient, very green! This is the month of greening up outside, too. brisk walks through your neighborhood. When these awards, recognizing inventive com- and supporting materials to Kris Hage- you walk, you can pick up and toss trash with a munity leaders and organizations who man ([email protected]) Plan your future garden, but don’t forget that recycled plastic bag. Walk to the store and take are working to better our environment no later than Friday, March 23, or mail flowers are as important as veggies — food for your cotton canvas bags to carry your groceries for decades to come, inspiring others to supporting materials to: 2010 Sustain- the soul and food for the stomach. Find garden- home. Use our creative cookbooks to make tasty follow their example.” able Saint Paul Awards, Environmental ing books at the library, landscaping and patio economical meals. Sustainable St. Paul award categories Coordinator, 1000 City Hall Annex, 25 ideas, good trees to plant and trees to avoid. Oh, don’t forget the reason for all this green- include: Energy Efficiency or Conserva- West Fourth St., St. Paul, MN 55102. (Trashy! Tons of pollen!). Make a rain garden, dig ing! This is St. Patrick’s month, with parades tion, Water Quality or Conservation, Regular mail should be postmarked by a flagstone path, build a simple play area for the and green beer and silly T-shirts — but mostly, Transportation Options, Clean-up and March 23, 2012. kids — the library is full of good, green ideas. not a snake in sight. Beautification, Residential/Commercial For full details on the 2012 Sustain- Bring in more green for your paycheck. The St. The Volunteers of W7th and Sara and Lisa Green Building Design, Natural Re- able Saint Paul Awards, visit stpaul.gov/ Paul libraries have free classes to improve your sources Restoration, Waste Reduction, DocumentView.aspx?DID=19847.

Home Repair and Improvement Funds More information is available at com- E-Democracy Launches Inclusive Commu- Available munitynhs.org. nity Engagement Online Project Community Neighborhood Hous- E-Democracy has received a $625,000 ing Services (NHS), a St. Paul-based Sholom Offers Courses: Tools for grant from the John S. and James L. NeighborWorks Home Ownership Caregivers of Loved Ones with Memory Loss Knight Foundation to actualize three Center, has been awarded funds to A four-part course for caregivers is being themes: (1) St. Paul Neighbors’ Forums provide low-cost home improvement offered at no charge by Sholom East. More — Inclusion, expansion, and engage- loans to homeowners living in Ramsey than ever, families face the practical and ment; (2) Lesson Sharing — Convening, County. emotional challenges of caring for aging research, and promoting online engage- A variety of programs is available, parents. Whether sudden or gradual, ment; and (3) Innovation and Technol- meeting the needs of households with assuming these roles and responsibilities ogy — Next generation experiments. incomes up to 120% of area median can be unfamiliar and often overwhelm- For full details and to get involved see: income as determined by HUD, cur- ing, particularly for working adults. Is e-democracy.org/inclusion. rently $100,800 for a family of four. your family ready to handle your parents’ Goals for the first theme area, Neigh- Interest rates are currently below 2%. needs? Come to this presentation to learn bors’ Forums, include reaching 10,000 [Editor’s note: Residents in the Little about resources, strategies, and insights participants across E-Democracy’s Bohemia neighborhood may qualify to maintain everyone’s dignity and con- Neighbors Forums network of 15+ on- for even lower rates — below 1.5%.] nectedness. line forums in St. Paul; engaging diverse The loan program is unique in that The course takes place on four Tues- communities with special efforts focused For theme area three, Innovation and it includes construction management days, February 28 to March 20. The on lower income areas, communities of Technology: fostering “next generation” services, including assisting with iden- sessions are free and also provide a light color, and St. Paul’s many immigrant com- technology experiments in collaboration tifying and selecting contractors for dinner. Sessions begin at 5 p.m. in the munities; developing sponsorship and oth- with technology-oriented civic initiatives the work, assistance in the construc- Nosh Nook of the Shaller Family Sholom er revenue-generating experiments across to promote people-centric technology tion management process, and verifi- East Campus. 740 Kay Avenue, St. Paul. our full network; launching a “campaign” and new models for inclusive community cation that the work is done correctly RSVP to Kari Kearns at 651-328-2023 or to promote online neighbor connecting via engagement online; enhancing the open before any of the bills are paid. [email protected]. beneighbors.org. source GroupServer.org online commu- The financing can be used for proj- Topics include: Family caregiving For theme area two, Lesson Sharing and nities tool; exploring “electronic block ects such as furnace repair or replace- strategies. Enhancing communication Convening: providing enhanced train- clubs” pilots along Central Corridor in St. ment, plumbing upgrades or repairs, with your loved ones with memory loss. ing to for volunteers, outreach team, and Paul combining open source technology roofing, storm windows, insulation, “Real–life strategies for dementia caregiv- others; sharing special “inclusion” lessons with intensive outreach and hybrid face- structural repairs, and additional bed- ing while caring for yourself.” Interacting for wide-spread adaptation by the online to-face/online models. rooms. Grants may also be available with our loved ones with memory loss. engagement field and building in continu- for emergency repairs. ous use of metrics and research. Request Breaking News: Community NHS Energy Smart Homes Loan Program more information at e-democracy.org/ has just announced additional $5,000 Act quickly to take advantage of an inclusionform. fully forgivable, no-payment loans to excellent program. It’s not too late to get a accompany their regular home im- 0% interest-deferred loan to replace your lOcally OWnEd & OpEratEd provement loans just described. They furnace or boiler and/or add insulation to must be taken together (that is, they your home through the St. Paul Energy are essentially a bonus grant on top Smart Homes loan program. Although the of a normal loan). These are targeted program is coming to a close, funds are toward families at or below 80% of still available. best pawn NOW OFFERING area median income. Some are re- Here are the details: Loans up to $6,500 MOnEy tO lOan WE Buy/WE SEll for St. Paul homeowners. Available for in- DISC REPAIR served for extremely low incomes. The CDs, DVDs, atvS, Motorcycles, Jewelry, coins, Electronics, specifics of each loan package depend sulation and furnace/boiler replacement. on the circumstances of the individual No monthly payments and no interest Games! collectibles, nearly anything of value borrower; NHS has some ability to Loan is due in 30 years or upon sale of viSit Our tWO lOcatiOnS! combine the $5,000 loan with another property. No income limits, but income loan that would be deferred until the affects terms and loan availability is first- 651-228-1847 651-209-0398 sale of the property. come, first-served. 525 East 7th St. Homeowners interested in learning Energy Smart Homes is made possible 966 West 7th St. two Blocks East of red Savoy’s more about the programs available by the City of St. Paul with a grant from One Block West of the Brewery should contact Community NHS at the U.S. Department of Energy through 651-292-8710. Income, equity, and the American Reinvestment and Recovery nOW OpEn until 8pM (M-F) 6pM (Sat) credit restrictions may apply. Funds Act of 2009 (ARRA). More information is are available on a first come, first available at TheNEC.org/financing or by served basis, and a waiting list is not calling the NEC at 651-221-4462, ext. 132. maintained. COUPON

Bring in this coupon & get special low prices on: CORBETT CANYON GUINNESS 2 GINGERS BOX WINE DRAUGHT IRISH WHISKEY 3L 8 PACK CANS 1L $688 $988 $1888 Coupon must be presented to get this discount. Expires 3/31/12. MARCH 2012 COMMUNITY REPORTER 5 community small business

Greg Mach and Michael Pech Master Plan Drafting and Design by jerry rothstein ered Chief Architect 3D Home Design Greg Mach started working for his father, software and jumped into what turned out a general contractor, when he was twelve. to be an advanced level course. Fife’s His father worked building homes in West Remodeling still makes up a fair portion St. Paul and Fairmont MN. He learned of his work in Master Plan Drafting and carpentry skills from his grandfather and Design, along with additions, larger projects Custom PC Provides father growing up, and added to his skills by like adding an entire basement or second learning the saw mill trade at a school near story, and on occasion designing a whole Electronic Expertise his home town. He attended Southwest house. Chief Architect allows the designer Technical Institute and studied architectural to render each idea in full three-dimensional drafting and construction. With these varied graphics. The amount of detail that is pos- experiences, he knew a lot about lumber — sible is impressive. Picture rail, wainscot- how to make it from raw logs and how to ing, different flooring materials, furniture put it together into solid structures. ideas — the program’s menus offer countless Jaime Fife in the heart of a computer Coming back to Minnesota in 1980 he choices that can be switched in and out in Jessica and Jamie Fife are partners in July began their full spectrum of ser- worked contracting, remodeling and finish moments. Even the lighting can be adjusted Fife’s Custom PC, a company that offers vices, which include repairing monitors, carpentry. Greg reviewed his hands-on work, to show how a design looks at different expert repair and services of computers, cell-phone water damage, hardware and saying: “In 1983, I started Architectural times of day. The program has perhaps game consoles, cell phones and other disk drive repairs and solving overheating Display where I created architects models 80,000 to 100,000 users worldwide, and electronics, as well as buying, selling and problems. They have contracted with com- and displays, and continued working part- the company supports user groups, educa- trading these items. Jamie also custom- panies to provide on-site services, as well time until 1998. Between 1986 and 1998 I tion forums and other learning resources. builds computers to meet the customer’s as doing shop work. Every computer they worked for Sholom Home East and two years Greg is now working with Michael Pach, specifications and needs. sell — custom-built, refurbished or new — with Richfield Health Center. We had our an advanced Chief Architect user mentoring Jamie (who is the son of Tease Salon’s includes a software bundle of Office Suite, own in-house remodeling and design crew. It Greg to reach higher levels of proficiency. One Carol Jasin profiled in this issue) is the antivirus and tune-up utilities. involved both design and construction.” to two thousand hours of study and practice expert in electronics. After ten years in the Jessica and Jamie report that business has By the time he felt ready to leave heavy may be needed to truly master this program. U.S. Navy, he was forced to take early re- been steady with some ups and downs and physical work behind, he was fully ready Michael has won a CODIE Award for tirement due to a back injury. As an aircraft recently an overall upward trend. They to explore the more abstract design side of excellence in software design from the Soft- mechanic, he was also able to begin study- have two kids — a daughter eight and a son building with the practical perspective he ware and Information Industry Association. ing computer network engineering and six. The family loves outdoor activities — gained through all his building work. It was He also uses Artlantis Studio, a high-end began planning to start a computer busi- camping, boating and the like. They invite at this time he started learning something rendering software. As a perfectionist, he is ness. Jessica is the business and financial you to drop in and meet them, and see about design software, while picking up a demanding teacher, but both he and Greg manager and is “behind the scenes most of what they can do to improve your com- valuable experience working as a remodel- seem to be enjoying the process immensely. the time,” but she can also do repair work puter and electronic equipment. ing consultant for three “design/build” Greg can be reached at 651-442-9000 or when things get really busy. Fife’s Custom PC, 963 West Seventh, companies in the Twin Cities. He discov- [email protected]. Fife’s opened on West Seventh early #203, 612-321-6667—fifescustompc.com. in 2010 with just computers — then in Best time to drop in, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Jandrich’s Floral Heads for Fifty with New Owner by jerry rothstein After more than 47 years in the business, Larry and Lorraine Jandrich were ready to pass their business on to a new owner. Serendipity: Ashley Nichols was intro- duced to them and a conversation began about their plans and hers. In fact, she had decided that she wanted to be in the floral business, after getting some early experi- Ashley Nichols among her plants and flowers. ence in a job with a flower wholesaler. flowers in classes, competitions and shows. They worked together for several months, The quality of plants and flowers is clearly and in August 2010 Ashley bought the a key issue for a flower shop. Ashley gener- business. ally picks out her own stock at the whole- Ashley grew up “in the Army,” so lived salers and does not buy the discounted in many places and attended many school stock. She has learned which suppliers are in the U.S. and also Germany. She started local, preferring to buy from them, and college studying photography in Spokane which have the best of a given type. For and it was there that she worked with flow- example, she has found local suppliers for ers at a wholesaler, making bouquets. She lilies and alstroemeria who are excellent. did photography for a while, but the idea of The flower business is steady — and then committing to the flower business grew. comes Valentine’s Day or Easter, Memo- As she became familiar with Jandrich’s rial Day, Mother’s Day and Thanksgiving Floral, Ashley could see what an opportu- — where flowers and centerpieces are part nity had come her way. This was a well- of many family traditions. Then demand established business — a “solid” business, is high and work multiplies. Sometimes with an excellent customer base including Ashley calls in some extra help — a retiree corporate accounts. She continues to learn named Larry Jandrich. “on the job” the many wrinkles of small- Jandrich Floral, 976 West 7th, 651-292-8833. business ownership, and continues learning

St. Paul Heritage Preservation Awards The Heritage Preservation Commission rather than for a bricks-and-mortar proj- of the City of St. Paul and the St. Paul ect); (3) Individuals (for an individual, Chapter of the American Institute of professional or volunteer, who has made Architects are co-sponsoring the twenty- an excellent contribution to heritage second annual awards to recognize proj- preservation in St. Paul); (4) Cultural ects, individuals and organizations that heritage (project, organization, or indi- enhance and celebrate St. Paul’s cultural vidual making a significant contribution resources. to the recognition of the city’s cultural Award categories include (1) Restora- heritage); (5) Vote of Confidence Award tion/rehabilitation/adaptive reuse of an (Given to a quality preservation-related historic building; new addition to an project having difficulty); (6) Historic historic building; new construction in an landscapes: (including cultural land- historic area or district; (2) Organiza- scapes, comprised of plantings and the tions and community education projects (for overall contributions to preservation, »awardS, pg 11 6 COMMUNITY REPORTER MARCH 2012 community arts & culture

Joseph Cleg and Sara Diedrich at the studio. JERRY ROTHSTEIN JERRY Carol Jasin with her apprentices: Cosette France, Molly Bodensteiner and Shauna Erickson.

West End Artist Profile: Carol Jasin master stylists, two advanced stylists, three junior stylists (apprenticeship grads) Artist, Stylist, Teacher and Businesswoman and seven independent stylists on the team. by JERRY ROTHSTEIN creating volume and releasing the curl. As a haircutter, Carol works to make Carol Jasin sewed doll clothes as a child Carol points out, “A good haircutter is each client’s experience unique and — the first sign of her creativity. At 25, at like an artist — it’s like the old story of how personal. This idea also resonates with her loose ends, she looked around for a direc- a great sculptor’s work takes away all the creative work as a jewelry artist, which she tion — beauty school caught her eye and nonessentials from a block of marble, leav- began a few years after she started doing she was able to get a grant to help pay for ing the form within revealed. Haircutters hair. Her technique often involves a com- her education. She soon realized that she also cut away the excess to reveal the right bination of deconstruction and creation had found the right direction. results.” [Editor’s note: Of course, if things go — she takes things apart (often old or Four years ago, after more than two south, the marble does not grow back.] antique) and uses the components to make decades in the business, she created Tease, Molly is one of Carol’s first three new jewelry that is complex and symbolic, a multifaceted salon where you can find apprentices. She studied at Aveda. As a with each piece unique. On display at all the usual hair, nail and esthetic services teacher, Carol is very interactive. Molly Tease, with new work arriving regularly. and then some. Tease itself has an attrac- will shadow her and observe; Carol will Tease has recently become a Bumble tive style and flair, Jasin says, “We are not talk through he way she works. Then & Bumble salon — a mark of accomplish- pretentious. Our salon is a comfortable Carol observes Molly working and shares ment in the business. The designation can’t and uplifting place to be. what she sees. Molly and the other ap- be bought; you must be chosen. With it Carol began offering an apprenticeship prentices — Shauna and Colette — are comes a lot of support for the business, program last year. It is an after-license edu- also learning a lot about the business side, including participation in Bumble & Bum- cation “like grad school,” partly to assure products, promotions and the community ble’s training center for both the business herself that her staff meets her own high services to which Tease is committed. “It and the education side. Staff development standards, as all apprentices become Tease is a challenging process,” Molly points out. resources fit well with Carol’s determi- employees. The program lasts six months “It is helping me to build on what I already nation to “grow my staff with loyalty to in which students master the five basic know, and to advance my talents.” Tease.” hair styles—long layer, bob, graduated bob, The Tease team includes Carol, owner Tease Salon, 961 West Seventh, 651- pixie and men’s styles—in addition to a and creative director; her husband John 292-0029; teasesalonmn.com. great deal of advanced learning in tech- Figge, operations manager; and Joshua nique, texturizing “from within,” shaping, Richard, salon manager. There are two

by TAMAR NEUMANN Jackson has money and Don doesn’t. There Review: This Buzzer Isn’t Broken Pillsbury House Theatre’s production are other essential plotlines that move the of Buzzer, by Tracey Scott Wilson, aims story along but each point only serves as to have a discussion about race in what a way to unmask the lies we tell ourselves the playwright calls a “post racial world.” about race and class. Unlike Rebecca Gilman’s Spinning into As the play unfolds, each story delves Butter, Wilson’s play seems to tackle this deeper into the racial issues that we think problem less from the idea of race and more we have already conquered. If you want from the idea of class that springs from to see how much the issues of race have race. In a world where we have elected a and have not changed in this country, just black president can we safely say we are re-read Raisin in the Sun. Buzzer seems color blind? Or have we just allowed color to be the twenty-first century’s response to draw a different set of lines? to Lorraine Hansberry. We’re not dealing Wilson’s play begins with an interracial with black people moving to white couple, Jackson (played with dexterity suburbs we’re dealing with white people by Namir Smallwood) and Suzy (played moving back into black neighborhoods with aplomb by Sara A. Richardson), and gentrifying them. Even though the who invite their friend Don (played with play fails to wrap up some fairly significant lackadaisical charm by Hugh Kennedy) story lines, it doesn’t really matter because to live with them. Don is a recovering the only thing you will be thinking about addict who is not only white, but also when you leave the theatre is the last extremely wealthy. They have moved into scene. If you attend this show for no other a house that was just renovated in the reason than to see the last five minutes neighborhood where Jackson grew up. you will have made a wise decision. Those Jackson is excited to be back, but Suzy is five minutes will make you question not sure the neighborhood is quite as safe exactly where you fit in this “post racial” as it could be. As the play develops, the world. And isn’t that what great theatre is underlying currents of race and class start supposed to do? to bubble to the top. Wilson has managed Pillsbury House Theatre, 612-825-0459. to take the conventional stereotypes and flip them by making Jackson, the black Tamar Neumann is a professor of English man, the successful lawyer, while Don is a by day and a theater lover by night. junkie. But the problems between Jackson She is involved with the vibrant theater and Don don’t develop just because Don is community in the Twin Cities, and an

travis anderson travis white; they come about because Don came active member of the Playwrights’ Center. from money and Jackson didn’t, and now “Buzzer” actors Namir Smallwood, Hugh Kennedy and Sara Richardson. MARCH 2012 COMMUNITY REPORTER 7 changing the world

Clockwise: Life by Vershone, Silhouette by Pedro. I have a Dream collaboration. The LAB staff preparing for a group. (right) Mirror Mosaic by Krystal. Journeys Secondary School and The LAB by jerry rothstein of the factors behind his remark. Bell im- In the few minutes we had left, Ham- With half the school year already past, I mediately engaged Student in the kind of ilton explained to me that kids can earn visited Journeys Secondary School to meet conversation we all hope for — respectful, their way out of Journeys and back into the with Principal Hamilton Bell and to talk curious and, despite the circumstances, mainstream system. For some, it is like a with staff members of The LAB, who had nonjudgmental. He noticed a small cut on transitional care unit in the health system been gathering student art work and writ- the boy’s hand and got him a bandage and — the expectation is that you will be able ing for this feature. an extra. He wanted to know what had to return “home” after some special atten- Bell’s office is clearly the school’s nerve happened and learned that the boy had a tion to get you over a hard patch. Many center. With phones ringing, walkie-talkies reason for his behavior — he did not want times, Bell believes, it is poor choices and static and barely coherent messages, staff to be in school. Perhaps he hoped to be their consequences that most need to be members coming and going, we were sent home. More questions revealed some worked with. is The LAB’s Creative Arts Specialist. clearly not going to have a quiet chat. But deeper thoughts. The boy wanted to learn As Hamilton Bell walked me down the He explained that the “old” LAB (at this dynamic and dedicated educator man- at home, and “Being good won’t get me hall to The LAB I asked him whether he Homecroft) made good connections and aged to convey many of his core messages, what I want.” felt that Journeys is meeting or exceeding built relationships with students who even as he dealt with a student arriving in As the conversation continued it was the hopes he stated at the start of the year. were brought to the program for an hour person after some behavior that was too clear that Student was comfortable in ex- His response: “Way ahead. We are the a week (or with some, once a month) much for the classroom environment. pressing his wants, just as Bell was comfort- home of future leaders.” and then returned to their schools. This At first I thought it was odd that Bell’s able in telling Student the kinds of things Those leaders are bound to be inspired was disjointed, and lacked continuity for initial remark to me was, “Kids are forced that would have to happen to make home by their work in The LAB. Since relocat- students and staff alike. to grow up too early.” But when Student schooling a real option. While not liking it, ing to Journeys last summer, important Now every student at Journeys is arrived — a 13 year old boy in seventh I sensed that the information had reached changes have improved the program and » JOURNEY, pg 11 grade — I had a practical example of some the boy. its value to students. Shay “Glo” Martin Krystal Krystal Andy In my hood it’s kinda crazy JaJuan Life long lessons Life is a Lesson The state lets guys in who Struggles and regrets Live Laugh Love Life is a Lesson wanna molest babies Some bad happened around here tonight. Drugs and sex Live Laugh Love Life is a Lesson Police and coroners and firefighters in sight. Money and gangs Loose dogs with rabies Blood everywhere. Mothers falling to they Life’s ain’t never tha same I have had my fill Then the White folks move in knees, begging “God please” in the cold Guns and knives So now I am spitting at will calling the police every chance world where nobody sleeps. In a deep intense Killing people’s wives Switch into overkill they get war police at the door looking for the person Dis ain’t a game Open mindedness and the power of string will Old Black men begging for cents who shot the kid to the floor. Suffering pain; I told my homie I’d take Times is hard, but still I’m keepin’ it real for their rent no weight to gain. The blame ridin for mine Sometimes I feel Bottle of gin Throwing up flesh. Looking at death. Life I stayed the same cuz Like my problems are getting too hard to deal with So I reach to the Lord so he can behind bars while I’m reaching to the stars. I’ll neva change right now. forgive me for my sins Big fancy houses, jewelry, and cars. Dreams No more times for da Can’t leave the house without is like making a living. It’s a hint I keep looking Nonsense games This how I will lay it out. a gun for a turn, but it won’t flip. Life ain’t about a Future’s bright Don’t give in to the doubt gun or a clip. Cuz I can’t even trust my friends Forget da past I tried to speak, now I shout about Sometimes the hood can be Manipulating. Anticipating. Waiting on a Ima make it last The problems they deal, I aced it. dangerous court date 25 to life can’t see your kids or Keep my eyes Switch it, time for U to face it now wife tonite no lite living for the day in each On the prize It’s you I’m testing No fair, but in the end, every- way. I’m confident. Well intelligence that Look deep inside Life is a lesson body is in desperate need for gun play is irrelevant. Don’t tell me about Do you see da fatherless child that walked 3 million miles money selling it. How you gone tell me I can’t win? Just to see him smile Live Laugh Love Life is a Lesson It’s like sunflowers without the Especially when I write poetry out of the little People say what don’t kill you makes you stringer Live Laugh Love Life is a Lesson seed boxes it is so often hidden in. I WIN AGAIN! That’s why I take a little longer Bees without the honey 8 COMMUNITY REPORTER MARCH 2012 pure white. Fledglings are grey puffs with a white face and are covered in dark bars in community nourishment their first years. They are the official bird of Quebec, summering 60 degrees north latitude, in the Arctic Tundra. They are the Living, Loving & laughing most recognizable, with yellow eyes and a black bill. Although they are one of the (dear deb) in the west end Night lights and bird largest and heaviest owls in North America, flights, the Upper Mis- they are the most agile. by Deborah Padgett intention of kindness and generosity. I’m asking myself now how I would want a sissippi Flyway is very important. It is a Snowy owls like to perch in open areas, gift I’ve given from my good intentions to freeway, with stars as mile markers, and the sitting and waiting for their meals. As do Dear Deb, be received. Having received the occa- moon as a guide. So I firmly believe. all owls, they eat their prey whole: bones, I try to be an upbeat and positive person sional gift I don’t know what to do with Because birds of prey fly during the day, teeth, fur, scales and all. Their stomach and, for the most part, my spirits are high and certainly having given gifts I’ve later most birds that fly overnight are migratory juices digest the flesh, and the rest is and I love my life. Right now though, with learned were not particularly welcome I songbirds. They begin their flights just after compacted into oval pellets that the owl Valentine’s Day rapidly approaching, I’m think I have to stick with the old adage, the sun goes down and fly until early morn- regurgitates a day later. finding it hard to entertain a loving spirit. “It’s the thought that counts.” A kind and ing. These birds rely on the stars as their Owl pellets are really cool to find in the Why is that? Is it that winter never quite grateful response to the gift giver is always mile makers. Night city lights appear to be woods. If you do, please be respectful, and came and still seems unending? Is it the in order. It is often possible to offer the stars and confuse the songbirds. So, they not hang around long, because that is most emergence of a worse-than-ever political gift to someone with suitable tastes on end up flying into the light and crashing likely where the owl lives. They get nervous season that has nothing to do with peace another occasion. I think a kind “How into buildings. They react like moths. They around people and may abandon their nest, and love but rather has everything to do kind of you to bring me a gift,” is the only are not likely to fly back into the darkness. or you may disturb their owlets. But if you with denigration and division? I hardly response necessary. Gift giving among Many that are stunned cannot get their find any owl pellets you can dissect, some- had ten seconds to rejoice that we would family members, lovers and/or best friends bearings to get up and fly out of the city, so times there may be bones of a prior meal. no longer be at war in Iraq before existing is a different issue entirely. In these cases get scooped up in the trash. If you add in When my son Myles was in fifth grade, one powers started talking a “take no prison- it’s appropriate to establish expectations, fog or rain with low cloud cover, the birds science project required them to dissect owl ers” approach to Iran. Right now it seems understanding and boundaries to be sure will fly at lower altitudes with more confu- pellets. He found three femurs. there is very little sense to be made of we don’t run roughshod over our loved sion, and more deaths. There are millions of The reason we have snowy owls down anything. It’s only at times I am resting one’s feelings. birds that die in this way every year across here on 44.95 degrees north latitude is with fellows of like mind that I can relax, And this on gift-giving in general…. the U.S. because of the fluctuations of food sources. take deep breaths and momentarily feel Fatal Light Awareness Program, FLAP is Snowy owls prefer lemmings, which are all is right with my world. I feel a need to Dear Deb, an organization that has volunteers whose small rodents that do not hibernate. Their hide myself away. Any advice for me from People seem to get in a bunch over gifts. mission is to work to safeguard migratory populations fluctuate every seven years or you and/or your readers would be helpful. What to give? How to accept what you birds in the urban environment through so. And then the warmer weather is also a Someone’s not so happy Valentine don’t like? “It’s the thought that counts.” education, research, rescue and rehabilita- factor. So they must fly south for food. Yes — but I want the chance to have tion. Their vision is to create a 24-hour Migration begins soon in Minnesota. I Dear Someone’s, something tangible to accept or reject. collision-free urban environment for migra- have heard many birds are back already, but I’m imagining there are many people You can’t fob me off with “I’m thinking of tory birds. See lap.org. Toronto is in a legal I wonder if some just never left. The robin feeling the same doldrums and loss of you so fondly and that’s my gift to you.” battle just about this very thing. is my favorite. high spirit you describe. Perhaps Valen- NOT! So I get the thing and it doesn’t Our governor, Mark Dayton, signed a bill What are your favorite spring arrivals? tine’s Day was put dead center in deep meet my skyscraper standards — what in 2011, authored by State Senator Sandy No bird grows faster in North America winter to give us an opportunity to take a do I do? I re-gift. Instead of keeping the Rummel that requires structures owned than the bald eagle. Go down to see them loved-one in our arms and close the door damn thing in my front closet so I can or leased by the state to turn out the lights starting at Red Wing, MN, Colville Park, or on the world for that very reason. Some- bring it out any time the giver is expected, after midnight during spring and autumn all the way to Wabasha to the Eagle Center. times (even without a loved one to hold) I simply pass it on. Now please note that migrations. There are energy savings and Plus, there have been flocks of coots hang- we have to love ourselves enough to sim- I pass it on with DEEP THOUGHTS for the fact that we as urbanites can see more ing around longer — eagles’ favorite food. ply close the door on the intruding and the person who will now receive it, not stars. It’s healthy. So, adding soccer lights in E-mail me if you would like to go out uncaring world and seek a stillness and just automatically. And if the giver comes Victoria Park is not a good idea. birding during migration: halleofalvey@ solitude that comforts. Though it’s cer- by and is obviously looking around to see Have there been any sightings of snowy gmail.com. tainly important to keep an awareness of where I put her offering, I tell her that I owls yet in the hood? They are virtually the larger world and our part in it, there loved it so much I couldn’t resist making a comes a time for renewal and refresh- gift of it — just as she had done. (Right?) ment that requires attention to keeping Not a hoarder. ourselves whole and happy. My advice is Dear Not a hoarder, Returning to Faith to sequester yourself, alone or with others It sounds as if you might be saying by Pastor tim johnson the hotel was on the way to the hospital, you dearly love and with whom you feel “Lighten up about the gift thing, already. Cherokee Park United Church the passengers were dropped off, leaving reciprocity and safety. Listen, love, laugh. If one receives a gift one does not want, more room and privacy for the family, and A Maya Child The world outside can wait. And when give it to someone who does want it!” our guide who went with them. It was a tough way to be- you re-enter, your calm and refreshment That sounds like one solution to me. We never learned what became of the little gin a trip. We had just arrived at the hotel in will make the world a better place. Hopefully anyone who gives you a gift girl and her family. Three days later mem- San Cristobal, Chiapas, one of the southern will do it in the spirit of “hope you like bers of the group were still processing what states of Mexico. We stood at the entrance Dear Readers, it but, if not, I won’t like you any less if they had witnessed and experienced. To- waiting to welcome our fellow travelers who Received a couple of questions this you return it or give it to someone else.” gether, they were frequently in our prayers. followed in the second van. We expected to month about gifts of art. One reader Seems to me that is the safest spirit in We had come to San Cristobal as part of see smiling faces eager to disembark after asked the proper response to gifts of art which to give a gift. a Global Justice Study trip sponsored by a long journey. Instead we were greeted by that simply do not fit your taste or your Sincerely, Deb United Theological Seminary. The hope earnest expressions of concern. décor. These gifts can be as simple as tea P.S. Now I know what happened to that was to learn more about the challenges Crowded into the van with our companions towels or as extravagant as a carefully ren- set of quilted coasters I gave you! facing the Indigenous Maya, who like the was a family of Maya Indians. The father had dered landscape painting. Another reader, Indigenous people in our country and a couple sacks of beans by his feet, appar- an artist himself, said he seldom responds Write me about this or other topics. We around the world, are the canaries in the ently headed for the market. The mother was well to a gift of art because his tastes are can all help each other become our best mine when it comes to the exploitation of holding a little girl, who was crying. A couple very specific. He has taken great pains to selves. If you want to be acknowledged global capitalism and environmental degra- more adults and young children, also Maya, build his art collection and can’t figure for your letters, let me know. Otherwise dation. They suffer first and hardest. sat close by on the floor. how to incorporate pieces that aren’t all will remain anonymous. Send your re- What we discovered before our first My first assumption was that for some quite suitable. sponses and your new questions for Deb, evening meal is the deep linkage in our reason the driver of the van had decided to to [email protected] or by humanity that is all too easily lost or Dear Gift Recipients, give this family a ride, but the emotional mail to Ask Deb, c/o Community Report- ignored. A young Maya child could be my Receiving gifts we can’t really use or tone in the van suggested otherwise. We er, 265 Oneida St., St. Paul 55102. child, my granddaughter, my little sister. simply don’t like much is a tough one. soon learned that as they were nearing the Each of us had points of entry into worry, Almost always gifts are given with the hotel they had approached a corner with this fear, suffering with those we love. We had Maya family waiting to cross. San Cristobal come to learn about how we are connected considered in the plan. Treat said a section is an old Spanish colonial city with narrow to the Maya, the ways in which our lives »SMART TRIPS, pg 3 of Snelling Avenue is slated to be repaved stone-paved roads, narrow sidewalks about have an impact on theirs and what it is we within two years and using the “complete six to eight inches up and buildings that Each year Smart Trips partners with still share in common. A little Maya child streets” policy should result in improved square off right at the corner. One has to Metro Transit in Commuter Challenge. A quickly reminded us how basic that con- intersection design. walk and drive carefully. pledge to trade out one drive-alone trip for nection can be. one by foot, bike, bus or train was signed The Smart Trips website offers links to When our second van arrived, part of the by 15,000 commuters April through June, Metro Transit, biking and walking maps family had already crossed the street. The 2011. Pledge participants were entered and information about car pooling. The mother, father and little girl were wait- into a draw for prizes such as an iPad or monthly newsletter provides a calendar of ing until the traffic cleared before joining Amazon Kindle. local events, information about organiza- them. Some of the members in the van GRAPHiC DESIGN Another annual event that Smart Trips tions and resources involved with transpor- saw what was about to unfold, but could sponsors along with other regional part- tation in the Twin Cities, as well as links to only watch helplessly, yelling out stop, as BROCHURE ANNUAL REPORT sustainable transportation news. the little girl darted into the street to join ners is the Commuter Choice Awards FLYER that recognize organizations, employers, Additional information about St. Paul her brothers. The van driver did what he NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING and individuals for creative solutions to Smart Trips is available at smart-trips.org. could, but there was no escaping the sound promoting alternatives to driving alone. At Additional information about HourCar of the little girl’s head hitting the bumper. a November 2011 luncheon, seven Twin service is available at hourcar.org. The little girl was quickly pulled out call 651-602-9711 [email protected] Cities’ organizations and four individuals from under the van. She was bleeding were honored for their achievements in the from the nose and ears, but crying and quick turnaround • reasonable rates METRO TRANSIT’S ADOPT-A-BUS- alert, both very encouraging signs. Since past year. SHELTER PROGRAM Being a leader on a whole array of trans- Would you or a group of neighbors or an portation topics is another goal of Smart organization like to take an active part in en- Trips. For example, Treat educates the hancing your community by adopting a Metro public and public officials on how a bump- Transit shelter, helping to keep it accessible in out at an intersection helps a pedestrian by winter and clean all year? Contact Metro Tran- shortening the crossing distance, or how a sit at 612-349-7678 and provide the location crossing signal should be timed to allow the of the shelter. They will send you an agreement slowest pedestrian to cross the street safely. and answer any questions you may have. Treat explained the “complete streets” Once a representative from your organization policy that the city of St. Paul has adopted signs the agreement, Metro Transit provides and that Smart Trips helps promote. When you with trash bags and safety training infor- a street is being redesigned or repaved, all mation so you can begin to clean and make the users of that street — bikers, pedes- improvements to the shelter immediately. trians, bus riders and motorists — are MARCH 2012 COMMUNITY REPORTER 9 church bulletin Call 651-665-0068 or e-mail [email protected]. community nourishment Divine Design: Bible Study St. Peter’s Crafters meet monthly to work for Spiritual Makeover. first on their favorite craft projects. There is lots of Shoddy Knock-Offs Infiltrate the Internet Saturday of every month, table space available. For information regarding Better Business Bureau However, the BBB is reminding people that continuing on March 3: 8:30am meeting dates and times contact St. Peter’s at The market for counterfeit luxury items RALs are not an actual refund from the Fellowship; 9-10am Bible Study. one- 651-228-1482 or [email protected] is wide and deep, covering everything from IRS, but rather a short-term loan from the time requested donation of $7. St. W 7th United Women’s Prayer: jewelry and perfume to handbags and tax preparing company. According to the Peter’s Lutheran Church, 530 Victoria Interdenominational, Scripture-based prayer sunglasses. Bargain-hunters should check Consumer Federation of America, the in- St. S. 651-228-1482. (Moms in Touch model) for children and schools. out the Better Business Bureau of Minne- terest rate and administration fees on RALs Humble Walk Lutheran Church: Worship Weekly Tuesdays 6:15-7:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s sota and North Dakota’s (BBB) advice on can translate to an annual percentage rate of on Sundays at 4:30 p.m. at Acme Academy Lutheran Church, Fireside Room, 530 Victoria St avoiding web-based rip-off schemes before 149 percent for a 10-day term. of Arts, 941 West Seventh. Information at S. For information call Kim at 763-670-9886 or looking online for name-brand items at “Refund Anticipation Loans may do more humblewalkchurch.org. e-mail [email protected]. discount prices. harm than good and in most cases aren’t Online classified sites like craigslist or worth the instant access they provide,” said eBay are hot spots for counterfeit luxury Dana Badgerow, President and CEO of item fraud, and both offer “buyer beware” the BBB. “That’s a tremendous amount of Recollections of Life in the West End warnings. But vendors are now setting up money to spend to borrow your own money their own websites to fool frugal shop- for two weeks.” Community Reporter invites West Enders to write down some of their neighborhood pers. The BBB suggest that you always deal Low-income taxpayers have a number of memories in earlier years. Please send your contributions to Editor, Community Reporter, with reputable businesses. When in doubt, options for free tax preparation, including 265 Oneida, 55102 or [email protected]. Call Jerry to discuss: 651-587-8859. shoppers can contact the manufacturer and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) verify which vendors are authorized sell- (1-800-906-9887 or irs.gov) and AARP ers. Consumers should also check out the Tax-Aide sites https://locator.aarp.org/ business with BBB at bbb.org/search before vmis/sites/tax_aide_locator.jsp). Many making a purchasing decision. VITA sites also offer services to help open a adult 55+ activities/programs Consumers who have purchased counter- bank account or get a low-cost prepaid card, feit luxury goods should contact the BBB which enables taxpayers to get fast refunds Call 298-5493 for West 7th Community Center services & and can easily file complaints online at bbb. without paying a fee. programs. 265 Oneida. Register and pay 1 week in advance. west7th.org. org/complain. Consumers can also contact Other options available to consumers are the Consumer Product Safety Commission Free File, which offers free tax preparation at cpsc.gov and file a complaint online. for people whose income is $57,000 or less, and E-file, both of which allow individuals wellness programs BBB Advice on Refund Anticipation Loans to file their taxes electronically and have Some tax preparers offer Refund An- their refunds direct deposited. Visit irs.gov/ Arthritis Exercise Program: Mon, Wed, Fri 9:30-10:15am. ticipation Loans (RALs) to allow people efile for more information. Block Nurse: 65+ in-home nursing & health aide, Medicare certified. to receive their tax refunds immediately. Blood Pressure Clinic: 4th Monday of the month, 12:15-1pm. Foot Care Clinic: 3rd Thursday, 9:30am-1:30pm. Massage Therapy: 3rd Tuesday, 1-3pm. Therapeutic Pool — 2nd Tuesdays, Feb 28-April 19. $42. Wellness Fridays: Feb 24, “Brain Games: Improve Brain Health.” Wulff - Godbout adult 55+ programs Ask the Lawyer: 2nd Thursday, 3-4pm. Funeral Home Golden Tones Big Band Dance: Wed 1-3pm.  Chore Program/Homemaking Services available. Cremation Services Advance Planning Lunch Bunch: 2nd Thursday,11:30am.  Lunch N Bingo: 3rd Thursday, 11:30am. Medicare Counseling: 2nd Thursday, March 8, 10am-12noon. 651-224-4868 Veterans Benefits Counseling: 4th Wednesday, 10-11am. March 28 560 West 7th Street • St. Paul Cribbage/Bridge/65 — Mondays and Fridays 12:30 to 3 p.m. Meaningful appropriate affordable nutrition programs Fare for All Discount Groceries: March 2, 10am-12noon. Health Education topics. Meals On Wheels: organic, dietary choices. Volunteer Opportunities Driver needed 1x/wk: 1) senior appts, 2) take senior to St. Francis Church 10am, 3) deliver Meals on Wheels 11am-12pm. Special MARCH EVENTS 3/19: Your Retirement Income: Optimize it. Protect it. Enjoy it. 3/20 and 4/17: Pension Rights Counseling. 3/29: Reclaiming the JOY in Living: 10-11:30 a.m.

It’s the

impression we »GARDEN, pg 2 leave behind that matters most. When the Individual is special, the funeral should be too. Kessler & MaguIre Funeral and Cremation services 651-224-2341 email: [email protected] 640 West 7th St. • St. Paul, MN 55102 Family Owned Since 1916 10 COMMUNITY REPORTER MARCH 2012

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tax help at the west 7th Library bulletin board Through April 11. Mon. & Wed. 9am-noon social events & programs Sample Night Live: Mar. 7, 7pm. History by appointment only. Call 651-298-5493. Theatre, 30 10th St. Free with library card. Preview Actor’s Theatre of Minnesota: Flanagan’s 12 performing arts events, including theater, dance, Mni Sota: Reflections of Time and Wake: March 2–24. A hilarious, interactive Irish music, puppetry, improv and poetry slammers. Place: Through Mar. 17. This is the wake in which the villagers of Graplin, County Sligo, 5Th Annual Cathedral Community & largest curatorial exhibit of contemporary Ireland, welcome their Irish-American cousins Native American fine artists in Minnesota. (the audience) to mourn the passing of their dear Family Day: Mar. 4, 1:30-4:30pm. Open house celebrating art, history & music. 239 Selby Ave. For the first time, 70 extraordinary works friend, Flanagan. Camp Bar, 490 N Robert, St. Paul. by 19 Native American artists from the BrownPaperTickets.com or call 800-838-3006. Dinner/Mystery Theatre: Mar. 11, 2pm. Mni Sota (Minnesota) region are on view Info: actorsmn.org/Wake, 651-290-2290. The Historic Mounds Theatre, 1029 Hudson Rd., together at the Katherine E. Nash Gallery, Claddagh Book Discussion: March 15, St. Paul (651-772-2253). “The Caribbean Cruise Regis Center for Art, on the West Bank Conspiracy” requires you to help solve the crime. 6:30pm.Deborah Padgett discusses novels, campus of the University of Minnesota: Dinner/show $30. moundstheatre.org. “Solving Lonely” and “The Sea in Winter.” Books 405 21st Ave. S., Mpls. 612-624-6518. available for purchase. 459 W. 7th or The Mad Women’s Drop-in Drum Circle: Mar. 13, 6pm. Hatter, 943 W. 7th. Percussion, rhythm and freedom of expression Women for Sobriety: Meets Mondays 10am, explored. All levels welcomed and encouraged. programs/events: dodgenaturecenter.org or call Pilgrim Lutheran Church library, 1935 St. Clair Ave. 2242 University Ave. W., St. Paul. $12/door. Drums 651-455-4531. youth activities Info: Jill, 651-235-1935. provided. womensdrumcenter.org. Minnesota Orchestra 2011-2012 season: Community Kids After School Program: M-F, International Institute of Minnesota Minnesota Book Artist Award: Through minnesotaorchestra.org; box office 612-371-5656. 2:15-6pm. For students grades K-8. Homework Programs: Citizenship classes; communication Mar. 25. Minnesota Center for Book Arts, 1011 help, reading and math instruction, enrichment Washington Ave. S., Mpls. Info: mnbookawards@ St. Paul Chamber Orchestra 2011-2012 & computer English for work; Spanish language; Season: thespco.org or 651-291-1144 for details. activities, field trips, healthy snacks and lots more. English language. 651-647-0191 or iimn.org. thefriends.org or Ann, 651-366-6497. Low fees — sliding fee scale. Transportation Sundays at Landmark: Mar. 4 & 11: 1pm. Walker Performing Arts Season: walkerart. available within West 7th neighborhood. Glockenspiel Meat Raffles Benefit Scottish org or 612-375-7600. Community: First & third Saturday, 1-5pm. St. Urban Expedition travels the world. Mar. Registration: Aaron 651-298-5493, ext. 211, or Glockenspiel, 605 West 7th. 17 (10am-5pm) Irish Music & Dance Assn. St. Support Group Info: Myasthenia Gravis (MG): e-mail [email protected]. Patrick’s Day celebration. Mar. 18 (11am-5pm): 800-514-5454. Emotions Anonymous: 651-492- West Seventh Girl Scout Cadets: March Depression and Bipolar Support Group: Irish Day of Dance. Feature regional & local Irish 7100. Overeaters Anonymous: 651-408-5681. 5, 6:30-8pm. Sixth and seventh grade girls Mar. 7 & 21, 7-8:30pm, St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul entertainers, vendors and cooks and have a small participate in leadership, teamwork, cultural Ave. Free. 651-698-0767. fee. Ballet Tuesday Mar. 13, 12 noon. St. Paul west 7th community center activities, crafts and community service. Call Open Mike at Claddagh: Wednesdays, 6:30- City Ballet performs. Free. The Rose Ensemble: 265 Oneida, 298-5493. M-F, 8:30am-5pm. Laura Carlson, 651-330-0386 to register. Slavic Wonders — Feasts & Saints in Early Russia, 8pm. Highlight your musical, comedy, poetry or Oneida Scholarship Applications still open: other talent at Claddagh Coffee, 459 West 7th. Poland & Bohemia. Free, open to public. Landmark west 7th family center Center, 75 5th St. Free parking at Macy’s ramp. West 7th residents age 18+ may qualify for Steppingstone Theatre for Youth one of the scholarship grants for educational A program of the West Seventh Community Center Development 2011-2012: steppinstonetheatre. Theater at The Ordway: Mar. 13-25, advancement. Applications available at the West at the Linwood-Monroe School, 810 Palace Ave. org or 651-225-9265 for details. Spring classes “Memphis,” Tony Award-winning musical. Through 7th Community Center. Deadline: March 29. See west7th.org or call 651-298-5493. all levels begin March 4. Surreal Spring Break, Apr. 1, “Blind Date,” Rebecca Northan. 345 Support, Referral and Care Management: free Drop-In Playroom and Playground: Mon Mar. 12-16. “Puppets and Picasso” course, tuition Washington St., ordway.org or 651-224-4222. An ongoing service to help individuals and families through Fri, 9am-noon year round. Enjoy an indoor $375, ages 6-12. Larry Yazzie and the Native Pride Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company: For access community resources. Call Sarah Granger playroom and outdoor playground for children Dancers: Mar. 2-11. 2012 programs see mnjewishtheatre.org or phone for appointment: 651-298-5493, ext. 215. infant to 5-year-olds and their caregivers. 651-647-4315. Through Mar. 11: “My Mother’s Bridge to Benefits: An ongoing service to Parent-Child Yoga: Mar. 3, 10, 17 & 24, 10- Coco’s Diary World Premiere: Mar. 3-25, determine eligibility for public programs. Call History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St. 651-292-4323 Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding.” 11am at West Seventh Family Center, Linwood- Sarah for appt: 651-298-5493, ext. 215. Monroe School, 810 Palace. or historytheatre.com. Coco is the daughter of a Park Square Theatre: “The Diary of Fare for All Discounted Grocery Distribution: lumber baron living on Summit Ave. in 1927. Parent-Child Music: Mar. 6, 13, 20 & 27, 9:45- Ann Frank”: Mar. 1, 3 & 31 only. “American Mar. 2, 10am-noon. Affordable groceries $10-30. 10:30am. West 7th Family Center. St. Paul Central Library Saturday Live! Family” opens Mar. 16. 651-291-7005 or Info: Cathalina Young: 651-298-5493, ext. 218. Programs start 11:15am. 90 W4th. sppl.org. Mar. parksquaretheatre.org. 20 W. 7th in Hamm Bldg. Circle of Parents: March 7, 14, 21 & 28, 5:30- palace rec youth activites 3: The Puppet Tellers present “A Night on Bear Lizzie Bright and the Buchminster 7pm. Parent Support Group meets at West 7th 781 Palace, 651-298-5677, stpaul.gov/parks. Island.” Mar. 10: Northern Gael — musicians Boy: Mar. 13-Apr. 8. Children’s Theatre Community Center. Participation free with free Ross Sutter and Laura MacKenzie, along with Company presents a story of true friendship. child care and light dinner provided for $3/family. Rec Check Free After School Program: Daily Irish dancer Danielle Enblom, for a program of childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400. 2400 Third Register: Sarah, 651-298-5493, ext. 215. 3-6pm. Arts & crafts, homework help, reading; Irish and Scottish songs, tunes and dances. Mar. Ave. S., Minneapolis. Family Lawyer: March 14, 8:30-10:30am. gym games, outdoor play and fitness fun. Snack 17: Minnesota History Center presents Dakota David Burns Law office, LLC, offers free one-time provided. Registration required — call the Center. Children. Mar. 24: Storyteller Tracy Chipman. Mar. Professional Networking Meeting: March legal advice regarding family law. Must call 651- Register for Winter & Spring Activities: To 31: Musician Laura Doherty. 27, 11:30am, Jewish Family Services, 1633 W7th. 298-5493 to schedule appointment. view citywide activities brochure visit stpaul.gov/ Info: 651-690-8910. West 7th Cinema: “The Lion King” March 16, parks and click “Register for Programs.” Also Tuesday Salons at Mad Hatter’s: 943 Mad Hatter Acoustic Jam: Thursdays, 6:30- 6-8:15pm. Free movie and low-cost concessions accepted in person at recreation centers during W. Seventh, 6:30-8:30pm, free. Donations (hot dogs, popcorn and pizza). Children must be normal facility hours. 651-266-6400. appreciated. Call for information 651-227-3228. 8pm. Live music and games. Free. 943 W7th. with someone age 13+. Get Fit with St. Paul Parks & Rec in 2012! If Science Museum of Minnesota Senior Bach Society of Minnesota 2011-2012 Free Immigration Law Consultations: March you live/work in St. Paul, get $30 annual membership Tuesdays: Mar. 6 & 20, $28 senior (age 60 plus) Season: See bachsocietymn.org for details. 21, 3-5pm. Free service by Leslie Guyton of Guyton (indoor walking tracks and fitness rooms. Sign-up ticket includes 11am Omnitheater showing, gallery Cowles Center for Dance and the Law Firm. Must preregister: 651-298-5493. at Battle Creek, Conway, Dayton’s Bluff, Edgcumbe, admission, free coffee and bakery item at Java Performing Arts: 528 Hennepin, Mpls. 612- Family Book Fair: March 22, 4-6pm. Bring Hillcrest, Oxford, Jimmy Lee, Linwood, Martin Luther Lab, and 10% Explore Store discount. 120 W. 206-3600 or thecowlescenter.org. whole family — each child from toddler to teen King, North Dale and Wellstone/El Rio Vista]. Info: Kellogg. 651-221-9444 or smm.org. can select three free books, plus crafts, snacks, [email protected]. Thomas Irvine Dodge Nature Center March games and prizes.

email calendar items to: [email protected] service directory classifieds

Graphic design. Flyers, newsletter, postcards mailers, ads. quick turnaround. 602-9711 or [email protected]. Nilles THINK TWICE. A TOUCH Yes, We’re buying! Antiques, OLDER Furniture Toys Builders, St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores sell OF ANDREA Glasswares Rugs Lamps Pictures. Wescott’s Station, only quality second-hand clothing, 651-227-2469 (anytime). Top Cash Paid! iNc. #4690 furniture and housewares. Hair Cuts • Manicures • Pedicures GESTALT WORK - AN EXISTENTIAL PRACTICE. Visit www. Perm/Color • Full Service Nails Additions • Roofing • Remodeling gestaltwork.org NEW LOCATION concRete • gARAges • siding St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores 1081 W 7th • St. Paul Hours: 461 W. 7th St • St. Paul I WANT TO BE YOUR LAWYER! 651-222-8701 9:30-5 M-F 651-665-0716 525 Ohio Street St. Paul 55107 9:30-3 SAT 651-227-1332 Call for Appointment www.nilleSbuilderS.cOm BASIC WILL $100 NEW CLIENTS ONLY FORT ROAD ANIMAL CLINIC WILLS TRUSTS • GUARDIANSHIP • CRIMINAL Melanie Liska ELDER LAW • FAMILY • IMMIGRATION LEITNER’S ATTORNEY AT LAW I can help with your important legal needs. garden center guarding the health of your pets since 1984 • Wills • Trusts • Probate fresh flowers DR. MARK L. GOODELL RICHARD DINER ATTORNEY • Guardianship • Real Estate 651-224-4037 1211 Seventh St W, St Paul & • [email protected] 1284 Fort Road St. Paul Naturally beautiful flowers & plants OFFice HOuRS: M-F 8AM-6PM • SAT 9AM-12PM 651-647-5750 Great Prices Local Delivery 1539 Grand Ave. 945 Randolph Ave • St. Paul, MN 55102 St. Paul, MN 55105 St. Paul Automotive 651-291-2655 651-699-5472 Committed to Excellence Approved “Top Shop” Foreign • Domestic MICHAEL C. BLACK ATTORNEY AT LAW 651-222-2587 265 W. 7th St .• St. Paul, MN 55102 651-298-0956 (2 blocks west of the Xcel Energy Center) HOURS: MON-FRI 7AM-5PM 910 Randolph Ave • St. Paul MARCH 2012 COMMUNITY REPORTER 11 neighborhood wanderings such as “Park’s Success with Seeds” to fill in all the details. I’ve also been thinking about rabbits lately. Last year was a tough year with me losing most of the battles. This year I am thinking a big stout fence. But it will have to be a creative approach, because I seem VIEWS to be outnumbered and they seem to be FROM THE GARDEN able so far to go over, through and under By Kent Petterson any barrier known to man. I’ve tried exclusion netting — they eat it. I’ve tried short barrier fencing — they jump it. I’ve tried smelly sprays and that Back in September I suggested that we only seems to work for me. I’ve tried should be watering our plants going into pellet shot and I’m not a very good aim. winter. Unfortunately, the same advice In past years I had always taken the continues to be good for the spring that “live and let live, it’s best to share” view. is now approaching. Who knows, we may I’m feeling like the scales have tipped and be in shirtsleeves on March 1. now the rabbits are unwilling to share. I I’ve been starting plants in the really shouldn’t have to buy more land so basement. It is that season. Most, there is enough to “share.” including lettuce, cole crops and peppers The battle will continue this year. I should be started indoors about March1, haven’t given up and I have ideas. Perhaps followed by tomatoes, marigolds, you have had successes you would like sunflowers, and fast growing squash and to share. Please let me know at terrace@ JERRY ROTHSTEIN JERRY cucumbers about April 15. Check out winternet.com Construction began in earnest at the Project for Pride in Living’s new housing development at West seed starting on the Internet or get a book Good gardening to you, Kent Petterson. Seventh and Springfield. PPL is building a 44-unit apartment building for family and workforce rental housing. Ten units will become home for formerly homeless families. Grants for Rain Barrel Workshops in CRWD The Capital Region Water- projects must include an edu- shed District offers grants cational component informing of $40 per participant up to citizens about how rain barrels $2,000 for rain barrel work- help prevent water pollution. shops hosted by community Rain barrels are one tool for organizations — planning preventing water pollution. councils, faith communities, When it rains, runoff from roofs, food cooperatives or non- streets and parking lots pollutes profit groups who distribute our lakes and rivers. Rain barrels rain barrels to citizens. Or- collect rain before it becomes ganizations may use funds to runoff so you can put it to good host a rain barrel construc- use on lawns and gardens. tion workshop in collabora- Visit capitolregionwd.org to tion with a local vendor or to subsidize learn more, or contact Elizabeth Beck- the cost of readymade rain barrels to sell man at 651-644-8888. or distribute to citizens. All rain barrel

»awardS, pg 5 ware, 651-266-6615 — christine.boul- [email protected] or Hilary Holmes, built environment, and designed land- 651-266-6643 — hilary.holmes@ scapes such as cemeteries and parks); (7) ci.stpaul.mn.us. Stewardship: (recognizes outstanding ef- Nominations are due at the St. Paul forts toward the long term maintenance Department of Planning and Economic and preservation of a historic property Development, 25 Fourth St. W., Suite or site). 1400, St. Paul 55102, by 4:30 p.m. on For criteria and nomination materials April 2, 2012. and questions contact Christine Boul-

»JOURNEYS, pg 7 performing arts, group work, biking and bike repair, and gardening. involved in The LAB, and staff members This year, 25 volunteers have each have the opportunity to support them provided one-on-one mentorships for not only when they are meeting their students, as well as tutoring support for mentors or taking part in learning groups, students in classrooms. but throughout the school day, in the Tess Pease and Mary Tinucci are both halls and lunchroom and other class- social workers at The LAB, driving the rooms. Glo says, “The LAB is a relation- direct student services, program coordina- ship vehicle using the arts to connect tion, supervision and training aspects for with the most basic of human compo- the team. nents — creativity.” It is no longer an Kyle explained that each art group isolated “good thing” but rather is integral begins with students working alone and to each student’s experience at Journeys. evolves into collective work. The “I have a The relationship with a LAB staff mem- dream” mural began with six seventh grade ber is determined by learning about each students making stream of consciousness student’s talents and interests, so that the drawings accompanied by songs from the mentor is a good resource for the student’s Civil Rights Movement and speeches of development. That basic relationship helps the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The cultivate self-awareness and confidence. drawings were projected onto one canvas The LAB also places students in a variety and painted. Inspiration for the mural came of learning groups; for example, perfor- from Tim Rollins and the Kids of Survival mance arts, cooking, wellness, poetry, (see fryemuseum.org/exhibition/3315). dance, music or visual arts. Kyle went on, “Creativity is a tool, a way Glo concludes, “The mentor and student of thinking — a way of problem-solving relationship is built using the artistic and changing our realities.” For Journey’s Skylark Dry Cleaning is open for business, while construction moves apace at the Urgent Care method as a tool — the process of writing students, who have experienced many life Animal Clinic next door. a poem or painting a picture can help the challenges, it seems that this tool must be student generalize and learn about life, among the most important. A new mural behavior and their sense of self.” was started on Rev. King’s birthday using A large painting caught my eye and I the Journey’s maxim — “Home of future spoke with Kyle Johanson, an Americorps West Seventh Pharmacy leaders” — as a guide. 1106 West Seventh Street PH: 651•228•1493 Vista staff person who lobbied, with his Glo, Kyle and Jason agreed that The St Paul, MN 55102 colleague Jason Rodney, to be able to stay LAB has found its footing and learned to with The LAB for a second year. Kyle meet Journey’s particular criteria. They facilitates arts programming and Jason have a much stronger relationship with March’s does a lot of work with composers of students and a greater chance to advocate save up to poetry, whose work is included here. Other for them throughout the day. They are best members of the team are Erin Weber, an especially happy with the energy and Americorps Promise Fellow, focusing on flexibility in the school, and with the 50% the behavioral and academic achievement School District’s active encouragement Values of 8th graders, and bringing service learn- and support. Health Mart on these ing opportunities to the student body. Ear- Store Brands [Editor’s Note: Within hours of complet- national brand lier in the year, she organized a successful ing the interview with Hamilton Bell, we & field trip for students to participate in Feed learned that he had been appointed as the look for products My Starving Children. She is currently Sunmark equivalent products with these logo’s new principal of Farnsworth Aerospace Store Brands every day organizing the development of a commu- PreK-8 Magnet School, beginning immedi- nity garden for Journeys Secondary School. ately. Theresa Neal was named principal at The LAB is also host to four graduate Journeys, and will also continue to serve as social work students this year. They bring principal of the River East Day Treatment Fax: 651•228•1968 Hrs: M-F 9A-8P • Sat 9A-5P www.westseventhpharmacy.com a variety of strengths and interests to the Program and Boys Totem Town.] students, including experiential wellness, 12 COMMUNITY REPORTER MARCH 2012 DRINK! MUSIC! FOOD! MARCH ENTERTAINMENT MIDAS TOUCH March 1-3 SWANEE BEACH March 7-8 RICH AND THE RESISTORS March 9-10 ST. PATRICK’S TENT CELEBRATION! WORLD’S WORST IRISH BIGGEST TENOR CONTEST March 14 ST PAT’S STEVE MILLAR March 15-17 ILL HEADQUARTERS! R March 21-24 & 28-31 THE PLAYERS G DRINK & MUSIC 531 West 7th 651-224-7345 SHENANIGANS mancinis.com Proudly Serving St. Paul & Surrounding Communities for 62 Years! THU MARCH 16 & REAL IRISH B SOUVENIR KISS ME P U SHIRTS WAKE* I’m Irish $20 3-6pm FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS! 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