December 2015 January 2016 Daytonsbluffdistrictforum.Org

Volume 28, No. 11 D December 2015 January 2016 daytonsbluffdistrictforum.org

“The Voice of the Community”

local food will be served. votesinfo.sos.state.mn.us/voters/voter-registra- Dayton's Bluff Community We encourage all residents to become leaders tion/eligibility-instructions/. Council to hold Annual in their community. Sitting on the Dayton’s Bluff Community members must meet at least one of the Community Council (DBCC) Board of Directors voter identification requirements to prove residency in Meeting and Board Elections is an opportunity to represent the interests of your Dayton’s Bluff in order to receive a ballot. The one exception to the state of Minnesota voter Dayton's Bluff Community Council Staff community and to guide the Council and the Day- ton's Bluff neighborhood to a bright and prosper- eligibility is age. Per the DBCC by-laws, membership shall be granted to anyone 16 years of age or older ous future. Please join us on Monday, December 21, for who resides, owns property, or owns or operates a the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council Annual To ensure that all have an opportunity to cast business within the boundaries. Each member is eligi- Meeting and Board Elections. We want to thank their vote in this election, we have created the fol- ble to cast one vote in organization elections. the Board, staff, and the community for making lowing 2015 absentee/early voting schedule: A locked/sealed ballot box will be available at this an amazing year. All are invited to attend and December 14-17, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., ESEC on the dates and times outlined above. Bal- December 18, from 8:00 lots will be color coded by sub-district and con- a.m. to 5:00 p.m., tain the names of all candidates in that sub- Dayton’s Bluff NONPROFIT ORG. December 21, from 8:00 district that filed by the December 1, 5:00 p.m. Community Council U.S. POSTAGE a.m. to noon, and 6:30 CST deadline. All at-large candidates that filed by 804 Margaret Street PAID p.m. to 7:30 p.m. the December 1, 5:00 p.m. CST deadline will be All voting will take TWIN CITIES MN included on all ballots. St. Paul, MN 55106 place at the East Side En- PERMIT NO. 3996 Community members will be required to show terprise Center (ESEC) proof of residency, per Minnesota voter identifi- located at: 804 Margaret cation requirements. Once residency has been ECRWSS Street, Saint Paul, 55106. validated, all voters will sign in via a sign-in Call 651-772-2075 for sheet. Voters will be provided with the appropri- Postal Customer more information. ate sub-district ballot. The DBCC will follow Copies of all board candidate applications will the Minnesota voter iden- be available for voter review at ESEC. tification requirements. These requirements can See “Elections,” be viewed at http://mn- continued on page 3. Page 2 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum December 2015 Community Calendar Thursday, December 17 Thursday, January 14th CALLING ALL: singers, Time: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Time: Noon to 2:00 p.m. musicians, comedians, spoken Saturday, January 2 word performers and dancers Time: 10:30 a.m. Grand opening of the new Elder Cafe Dayton’s Bluff Teen Space The Historic Mounds Theatre will be Calling all Dayton's Bluff Seniors: Meet hosting the fourth annual “CABARET!” Dayton’s Bluff Take A Hike Friday, February 19. To sign up to Teens (ages 12 to 18) are encouraged new friends and old! First Lutheran perform or buy tickets, please contact to stop by for fun activities like mak- Church and Dayton's Bluff Seniors Pro- Learn a little history of the East Side gram will host an event with artist and Karin DuPaul at 651-776-0550 or email while hiking through Dayton's Bluff. ing LED greeting cards and Shrinky [email protected]. Dinks, video gaming, and more. author Lucy Rose Fischer who will talk about the power of creativity in later The hike starts at Indian Mounds Park at life. “CABARET!” tickets are $25 in Earl Street and Mounds Boulevard and For more information about the event, advance and $30 at the door. visit sppl.org or call 651-793-1699. is about one and a half to two hours Fischer will share her own experience of long. Hikers will have their choice of The Dayton's Bluff library shares it's launching her art career around age 60 Dayton's Bluff Library Update ending in Swede Hollow Park or at East home with Metropolitan State univer- when she asked herself: “How old do I th Extended hours and services Side Heritage Park. sity at 645 E 7 Street. have to be to follow my dream?” She will include an illustrated reading of For more information, email Kar- “I’m Young at Being Old” along with While the George Latimer Central Li- [email protected] or call 651-776- open discussion. Copies will be avail- brary is closed for remodeling through 0550. December and January able for purchase. the end of the year, the Dayton’s Bluff at the Mounds Theatre Library will be adding some additional Make your reservations at 651-237- hours and services! These include extended hours for the Job Search/Com- Wednesday, January 13 December 18-20 & 26-27: A Klingon 7633. Dayton's Bluff Seniors is located at 463 Maria Avenue, St. Paul. puter Skills/Open Lab Monday & Time: 6:30 p.m. Christmas Carol, live on stage at the Wednesday from noon to 3:30 p.m. Historic Mounds Theatre. This is the and Tuesday & Thursday from 10:00 New Friends of Swede Hollow classic tale of SQuja' learning the true a.m. to 3:30 p.m., as well as the meaning of courage and honor on the C.R.O.P. (Community Resource Out- eve of the Long Night. Presented in the reach Project) Wednesday from 2:30 Watch over, restore, and celebrate the original Klingon with English subtitles. Neighborhood p.m. to 4:00 p.m. C.R.O.P. will have history of Swede Hollow Park. Come All shows start at 7:30 p.m. December experts on hand to provide information join the Swede Hollow community at 20 and 27 are matinees only, starting at and answer questions about services their monthly meeting. Announcements 4:30 p.m. such as:

Email [email protected] or call January 8-10: Bulldog Community Business classes  Housing resources 651-776-0550 for more information and Theater presents Agatha Christie's The Spring 2016  Mental health case management the meeting’s location. Mousetrap.  Chemical dependency resources The next Dayton’s Bluff Neighborhood  Health care January 16: The Mounds Theater Microentrepreneur Class is starting in the  Employment info Saturday, December 13 - presents IWI Wrestling. Doors open at spring of 2016. This program helps startup  Youth resources Sunday, January 3 6:45 p.m. with bell time at 7:30 p.m. and young businesses on the East Side.  Veteran's benefits This is a family-friendly pro wrestling All East Side entrepreneurs are welcome.  MNsure event. Don't miss out on the fun! Class training lasts eight weeks and in- “We are Hmong Minnesota”at General Admission tickets are available cludes topics such as operations manage- Call 651-793-1616 for information. the Minnesota History Center at the door. VIP seating at tables on ment, marketing, financial management, stage above the ring are available in ad- one-on-one assistance with creating a suc- The Library will also offer Snack in the vance online. cessful business, and preparing a business Zone, Monday-Thursday from 4:00 November 2015 marked the 40th an- plan, plus eight hours of one-on-one time p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Homework Help with the instructor. niversary of the Hmong migration to January 23: The St. Paul Conservatory in the Zone, Sunday, from 1:00 p.m. to Minnesota following the war in South- puts on a Vaudeville show. 4:00 p.m. and Monday-Wednesday Those who successfully complete the east Asia. Today, the Twin Cities metro course and locate their businesses in target from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. area is home to 66,000 Hmong, the For tickets and more information visit moundstheatre.org, call 651-772-2253, neighborhoods are eligible for ongoing largest urban Hmong population in the business support services. Some examples United States. or [email protected]. The Historic Mounds Theatre is located of businesses started by people who have Suburban Square Women, previously taken this course include at 1029 Hudson Road. Developed in partnership with the graphics, landscaping, photography, food Infants & Children (WIC) Hmong community, the Minnesota His- service, restoration of wood furniture, art, location now open torical Society's exhibit commemorates custom floral design, and exterior and in- the anniversary and celebrates the sig- terior painting. nificant political, social and economic WIC provides nutrition counseling, contributions the Hmong have made to The course is sponsored by the Dayton’s breastfeeding support, nutritious foods, Minnesota and the nation. Bluff Community Council and the and referrals to community programs. Neighborhood Development Center. For more information, hours, and ad- There is a small registration fee based The new location is near the intersection mission visit mnhs.org. on a sliding scale. The next session will of Interstate 94 and White Bear Avenue. be starting in the spring and class size is Income guidelines are: a household in- Monday, December 28 - limited, so sign up now. Please call Emma Spillman at 651-379-8432 for an come below 185 percent of the federal Wednesday, December 16 Wednesday, December 30 application. poverty level, or qualification for Medi- & Wednesday, January 20 Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. & cal Assistance or MN Care. 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Time: 9:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. More information about Ramsey County WIC is available at 651-266-300 or on- Vacay Movie, Craft, and Game day Homes needed for the Police Community Meetings 2016 Home Tour line at www.co.ramsey.mn.us/ph/wic. The Eastern District Police will host Dayton's Bluff Library is ready to en- their monthly meetings for community tertain the kids while they're out of Would you like to have your home on Free food for Families needing members held at the Eastern District school. Monday, December 28, they next year's home tour? Do you have a help this holiday season police office at 722 Payne on the corner are playing the popular family movie suggestion of a home that would be of Payne and Minnehaha Avenues. The Shaun the Sheep from 3:00 p.m. to great on the tour? Contact karindu- next meetings are at 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 29, [email protected], 651-776-0550. The Dayton’s Bluff Recreation Center p.m. The meetings are intended as a from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. They are has started a new program for residents time to learn, listen to and address having a difficult time. They will be featuring electricity experiments with The tour will take place on Saturday, people’s concerns about crime and other handing out “Family Food Boxes” every the Bakken Museum for craft day, and April 30, and Sunday, May 1, 2016. The issues on the East Side. Saint Paul tour features occupied homes to show third Thursday of the month at 800 Police Eastern District is committed to Wednesday, December 30, they will Conway Street. be hosting game day from 3:00 p.m. visitors our wonderful Dayton’s Bluff maintaining and growing the quality of people, homes, and community. life for all our residents. Bring your to 5:00 p.m. with Minecraft, Monop- The next distribution date will be De- oly and more. neighbors it is a great way to talk about Visitors from all over the metro come cember 17, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 all neighborhood related issues. each year to see homes in Dayton’s p.m. If you would like to receive a Fam- Bluff. Some even end up moving here. ily Food Box, call 651-793-3885. December 2015 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum Page 3

and was awarded the Highest African Sub-district A: Rob Sebo Lubke cle to make that happen. I also want to Elections: American Achievement Award. bring a strong voice to the Community After high school, I went directly to Council that advocates for living-wage Meet the Candidates college at the University of Minnesota jobs for the residents of Dayton’s Bluff. Morris, on a full-ride scholarship. I was a recipient of the Page, Temoli, and At large: Laura Kidd KOPP scholarships, and was a part of Sub-district B: Chris Lollie the Multicultural Excellence Program. At Morris, I became the President of Independence Residence Hall, Presi- dent of the Management and Econom- ics Club, and President of the Black Student Union. Since graduating from college in 2012, I’ve worked in management. Now that I have the knowledge, time, and leadership skills, I am committed to helping my community. I want to see a stronger Dayton’s Bluff that is more civically engaged, fo- cused on employment issues, and advocates for youth in Saint Paul Public 2016 will be my fourth year as an East Schools. I want to work with the com- Sider. I moved to Dayton's Bluff not be- munity to build ties that will allow us cause I knew anything about the place, Originally from Chicago, Illinois, I to move forward on these goals. but because my husband came with a moved the East Side at an early age. I neighborhood. All I can say is, "Day- attended Johnson High School and grad- ton's Bluff I'm glad we met." uated from the High School of Record- Sub-district A: Jeanelle Foster I spent most of my life in my home- ing Arts. There, I learned vital technical town downriver. Born and raised in and communication skills that have Winona I have a feel for how streets fol- been key to my community building low the river and the bluffs, not a grid. I work with youth. I work at American like Saint Paul a lot. I love Dayton's Freight as a salesperson; however, I am Bluff. We have a beautiful funky home currently in the process of creating a non- My name is Laura Kidd (family name that is getting better every day. profit to expand my youth work, which White Eagle). I have lived in Saint Paul I'm a communications professional...a focuses on engagement and intervention for over 40 years and moved to the East former journalist who now works for the through music production. It is this Side in 2002. I am a homeowner, moth- Lutheran (ELCA) church. I'm also a knowledge and skill base that I wish to er of two daughters, and I have four bring to the Community Council. preservationist...I want to protect the What I love about Dayton’s Bluff is the grandchildren. I attend Metropolitan special parts of the bluff we love while mix of cultures and histories. The demo- State University. Upon completion of promoting jobs and development, in- my Bachelor’s degree, I plan to enroll graphics of this neighborhood have cluding better transit. I want clean, safe, changed and with it the needs and inter- in a Technical Communications Mas- well-lit streets. I want opportunities for ter’s program. ests of the community. Diversity is noth- kids and to capitalize on our diversity. I ing without authentic engagement and I have a wealth of work experience want us to build the home we want. representation in systems and institution in health care and community out- I am an average person and your I'm honored to be Vice-President of that affect these communities. People of reach. While working at the tribal neighbor. I have raised two children the Dayton's Bluff Community Council color have been woefully absent from branch office of my Ho-Chunk Na- on the East Side over the past thirteen and I'd appreciate your vote for another these institutions. I am excited to be a part tion, Health Partners St. Paul Clinic, years. I work with children/families term as one of your Sub-District A rep- of changing that. American Indian Family Center, Na- and occupation. I facilitate parent edu- resentatives. I will work to create enjoyable and tive American Community Clinic, and cation and diversity groups. I enjoy meaningful volunteer opportunities and currently at the Minnesota Organiza- cooking, learning to bike, and spend- programs that will build this council to tion on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (MO- ing time with my granddaughter. I Sub-district B: Shannon Prescott be an organization that represents and FAS), I gained a wealth of knowledge care about my family and community advocate for all in our community. about how disparities within different and believe in the good of others. I systems impact the health of residents. bring a new face, perspective, insight, I would bring many local and regional and point of view. I bring a commit- connections to the Board. ment to being a part of continuing to Sub-district B: Kristin Madore I enjoy the medical field, reading, build a flourishing East Side. I have children/youth, gardening, culture, art, loved seeing the revitalization of the computers, and writing. My focus is to neighborhood over the years, and the bring a greater sense of community, diversity in families and family struc- safety, positivity, and to stand united. I tures. love the diversity of Dayton’s Bluff and We are an eclectic community and I I believe this is what makes Saint Paul a love seeing how we come together great city. I have East Side Pride and I through our differences. I want to con- want to share it! tinue to impact the change in perception that the East Side is not safe. We are a vibrant, thriving community! Sub-district A: Todd Gramenz

Sub-district A: David Gray I am a five-year resident of Sub-district A. I am Co-owner of the East Side Open Market and owner of two I am a Saint Paul native and moved to small businesses, Just Jelly and Jam as the East Side over a year ago. I have a well as Cabin Attitude, which are both passion for music. As a vocal performer, located in Sub-district A. I want to I am connected to the local music artist give back to my community. I want to community and have performed original be a part of the solution for change in- music in many venues across the state stead of remaining part of the silenced of Minnesota. As an artist and a mother, A lifelong resident of St. Paul, I live, minority. I am passionate about all people having work, and parent three daughters on the I see many challenges in the Dayton's the ability to live productive lives, re- East Side. I live here because I love the Bluff community. For example, I see the gardless of age or race. diversity of East Side people, the history alienation between the community and I am concerned about recent violence of East Side architecture, and the hills, I was born and raised on the East leadership. I see the struggle for small in the community. Our kids deserve to bluffs, and hollows of East Side land. Side of St. Paul. I graduated from businesses to be prosperous in Dayton's grow up in a community that is safe As a teacher at Community of Peace Harding Senior High School, and was Bluff and I want to be part of the solu- from gun violence. I will work to make Academy, I am aware of how children and tion and re-vitalization of my communi- very involved in my school and com- sure youth voices are heard and their families are affected by the safety and ty and neighborhood. munity. I played football, ran track, concerns addressed. I believe the new health of our neighborhood. radio station will serve as a unique vehi- See “Candidates,” continued on page 4. Page 4 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum December 2015

I am concerned that crime and substan- I am a lifelong resident of St. Paul Sub-district C: Gibson Stanton Sub-district D: Pa Chua Vang dard housing prevent people from thriv- who moved to the East Side as a child ing. in 2000. In 2012 I graduated from I believe the best way to build communi- Johnson High School and in 2015 I ty is to know your neighbors. As a repre- was proud to become a homeowner on sentative of my sub-district, I will work to bring neighbors together. I will help the East Side. Currently, I am in the build a network of dialogue between second year of a four year Heat and neighbors and police, landlords, city offi- Frost Insulator Apprenticeship pro- cials, and each other. I want Dayton’s gram with Local #34 in St. Paul. Bluff to be a neighborhood where all resi- I enjoy wildlife, birds, sports, bas- dents feel safe on the streets and in their ketball, and fishing. What I like best homes, where people know their neigh- about living on the East Side is the op- bors, and feel proud of where they live. portunity to do those things, the con- venience of transportation and services, a healthy small business com- My name is Gibson and I am a fellow Sub-district B: Rainbow Espinosa munity, and clean living environment. Dayton’s Bluff neighbor. I grew up near I am a Hmong American woman who I have lived in Dayton's Bluff with my I'm interested in participating in Beaver Lake and later Oakdale. Follow- has lived on the East Side of Saint Paul husband and our kids for about 12 years. neighborhood discussions that affect ing my time at Minnesota State Univer- for the last 20 years. I am a LPN who We want the youth in our neighborhood me and my property. I want to pro- sity-Moorhead, I moved back to Saint works for a home care agency; I serve on to have opportunities for structured and mote and encourage homeownership Paul where I have been rooted ever the Board of the Dayton’s Bluff Seniors unstructured positive interactions. on the East Side; especially with since. Living at Home Block Nurse Program and The community is changing a lot and young people. My husband, CJ, and I chose to live in St. Paul STRONG, a community-led orga- many people live here because they can There are many great things about Dayton’s Bluff the summer of 2012 and nization committed to pushing for open afford it. Some people want the neigh- have steadily made our 1909 house a and representative government. I also vol- our Dayton’s Bluff community, but I unteer with East Side Neighborhood De- borhood to gentrify to the point where home by filling it with friends, foster know more can be done. We need to velopment Corporation because I believe many people might feel pushed out. dogs, and family. find solutions to make our neighbor- that in order for the East Side to thrive, we I am a creative, strategic, and passion- hood safe for both people and proper- need our community to be informed about ty. ate person. Currently, I serve as the Di- development in the neighborhood. Sub-district B: Sage Holben rector of Children, Youth, Family Min- What I like best about living here are the istry and Communications, work which communities. I walk down East 7th, After 53 moves in my life, I came to continually gives me hope in our future. Sub-district C: Osman Egal around Indian Mounds Park, on Payne, Minnesota for my job at Metropolitan I will give my time and strengths of Arcade, and White Bear Avenues, and I State University Library and have rented adaptability, ideation, positivity, and see many family owned establishments, on Fourth Street for 15 of these 17 years. strategic thinking to support the DBCC homes, and schools so diverse and full of My life has been rich with opportunities to staff, neighbors, and mission. I will pro- colorful life and history. draw from my work experiences in do- vide a constructive space for criticism I would like engagement with the com- mestic violence and crisis intervention as through listening, discussion, and claim- munity to be more transparent. With trust well as from my life experiences, starting ing action. and knowledge, I believe we can come to- from the outskirts of Chicago. My favorite thing about living in Day- gether to make our community stronger. I From planting Little Free Libraries to ton's Bluff is the rooted tradition of be- would like to empower the community to sponsoring youth drumming workshops, ing a historic, transitional, and diverse hold us accountable for making their voic- art projects, and youth trips to New York es heard. City; from lending my voice to someone community. Not to mention the amazing fighting for his rights in the criminal jus- restaurants which curate some of the best meals! tice or health system, to serving as Day- Sub-district D: Quintin Kroger Kidd ton’s Bluff Community Council Board Most importantly, I want to take President and Board Director; from con- time to listen and learn where our fronting drug dealers who stop in my weaknesses are. Personally, I would neighborhood, to offering ‘Movies on the like to discuss our overall connected- Porch,’ to writing for the Dayton’s Bluff ness. If someone is not seeking neigh- District Forum about life in our communi- borhood information, who is giving it ty. This is the core of Dayton’s Bluff to to them? Connecting neighbors to me and is why I want to continue serving I am a graduate of South Seattle each other is critical to the quality of sub-district B. Community College with an Asso- life in Dayton's Bluff. When I meet with a group of neighbors ciate’s Degree in Arts and Science, about the use of Sacred Heart Convent, or Highline Community College with an with the community and Metro State on Associate’s Degree in Business, and a Sub-district C: Tabitha Benci DeRango the new parking ramp, and bring owners Bachelor's Degree in Social Science. of problem properties, tenants, and neigh- My degrees are based in education bors together to problem-solve: this is For 12 years I have provided leadership as a community leader and cul- and community organization and de- what Dayton’s Bluff is to me. It’s listen- velopment. I am proud to call "the ing, respecting, and working on solutions. tural advisor working to build better Bluff" my home. Most recently, my No one can do it alone, and real leadership networks and opportunities for service focus has been on creating valued en- On Memorial Day of 2011, Robyn and I has to come from the community, from providers to connect to my communi- moved to Dayton’s Bluff. We chose to live people who LIVE in Dayton’s Bluff; NOT ty. gagement practices throughout the Twin Cities region. With my involve- in Dayton’s Bluff because of its diversity from the Executive Director who lives in I have strong bilingual communica- and neighborhood character. Being able to ment in the Community Engagement Woodbury. The Dayton's Bluff Communi- tion skills in English and Somali lan- rehab and preserve our 100+ year-old ty Council Board answers to the popula- guages and the ability to translate and Steering Committee, I co-authored the home was a bonus. tion of Dayton’s Bluff, and the Executive interpret, advocate effectively, articu- new Public Engagement Plan with the I love the sense of pride East Siders Director needs to start taking direction MET Council. I have skills in commu- have in our community regardless of from the Board, not dictating to the Board. late ideas clearly, write concisely, and make compelling and informative oral nity organizing, event planning, cre- whether they’ve lived here their entire I ask for your vote so I can help change ative education, and place making. I lives or just a few years. Walk or drive the board dynamics. presentations. I have served as a strong community have an arts based predilection. around the neighborhood and you’ll get a small taste of the diversity of Dayton’s liaison with extensive experience in I would like to be part of a board that has strong governance and distinct di- Bluff; from pizza, to coffee, to a burrito, community development and cross- to barbeque, to pho. Step into a neighbor- Sub-district C: Rasheed Wade cultural civic engagement. As the cur- rection. A board that is observant to community needs and that helps to hood bar and listen to someone talk about rent Director of the new Darul-Uloom strengthen the connections in communi- what they love, or don’t love, about the Islamic Center, I have experience run- ty. A board that practices fiscal trans- East Side over a cold one. People in our community are concerned ning a non-profit and engaging a parency and budgets in a way that holds about safety. We need to effectively ad- growing Somali community in Day- accountability to its greater community. ton’s Bluff. I believe the East Side’s dress these concerns. We need to continue I feel that the board needs to create our economic development, business de- richness is demonstrated in the diver- healthy, active committees that em- sity of its residents, the variety of its velopment, and job training efforts. We power community members to be cre- need to identify and leverage the re- businesses, and the shared commit- ative in solutions to the issues in their sources available within our community. ment to building a strong vibrant com- neighborhoods. I think there needs to As a former elected official and commu- munity. I hope to strengthen those ties be awareness and responsiveness to nity volunteer, I have experience address- by championing work that will ensure the issues surrounding the vast ing the broad range of issues Dayton’s equitable participation and benefit amounts of transformation in our com- Bluff faces. In my current job, I work with from economic revitalization happen- munity in regard to economic devel- people around the globe representing a ing on the East Side. opment, rising housing costs, trans- broad range of cultures. portation, and diversity values. See “Candidates,”continued on page 5. December 2015 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum Page 5

Sub-district D: Lisa Lemke Street and expanding to radial streets. Improvements to commercial properties need to continue so businesses can open and thrive in our commercial district. Let’s show off the dynamic energy in our district by offering vibrant community events. Creating a safe environment in which we can work, live, and play is an ongoing challenge. Bringing our community together with mutual respect for each other, and better working and living conditions will move us closer to an alive and vibrant community. Addition- ally, improvements in transportation and building development are greatly needed; we need to ensure they are in line with the needs of a forward thinking community and historic character of the East Side.

Sub-district D: Barry White

I am an early childhood special education teacher for Minneapolis Public Schools. Years ago, when I rode with a group of children on the special education bus through Dayton's Bluff, I knew one day I wanted to live here. I have resided in the Indian Mounds Park neighborhood for six years, becoming a homeowner a year and a half ago. I love the community and caring neighbors I’ve come to know in Dayton’s Bluff, as I walk along our streets and greet neighbors, getting to know them and their canine family members! I enjoy our beautiful park and overlooks, and the small- I’ve lived in the Mounds Park neigh- town feel we have in our beloved St. Paul. borhood of Dayton’s Bluff for 17 years. I would like to encourage the Dayton’s I am a Video Maker, working in video Bluff neighborhood to continue to work production by writing, shooting, and toward making our streets safer and our editing video for small businesses and bluff beautiful. nonprofits. I am a good listener and I am patient. My skills as a visual com- municator may be of use to the organi- tem into one that is healthier and more and producers. AMS grant funding Sub-district D: Holly Windingstad zation. equitable,” says Sides. supports a variety of programs, in- I like the momentum we have gained Urban Oasis will focus on expand- cluding organic certification cost- lately -- with new restaurants, grocery ing sales of its craft condiments be- share programs, the Specialty Crop stores, and breweries, etc. I’d like to yond CHS Field where seasonal Block Grant Program, the Farmers change greater St Paul’s perception that ketchup, honey mustard, and a 100- Market and Local Food Promotion the East Side “sucks.” year-old recipe for sweet pepper relish Program, and the Federal-State Mar- wowed St. Paul Saints’ fans this past keting Improvement Program. This season. funding is one of the ways that USDA Urban Oasis Awarded This competitive grant will also invests in the future of rural America USDA Local Food Promotion help support a line of Urban Oasis and the nation's agricultural sector. soups and an expanded catering ser- USDA's Food and Nutrition Service Program Grant vice. Equipment purchases will not administers 15 nutrition assistance only benefit the food businesses of programs. In addition to the Supple- Urban Oasis receives funding for mental Nutrition As- its innovative approach to creating a sistance Program, more equitable local food system. these programs include Special Supple- Urban Oasis is the recipient of a mental Nutrition Local Food Promotion Program grant Program for Women, from the United States Department of Infants and Children, Agriculture (USDA). The grant will the National School support the work Urban Oasis is doing Lunch Program, and to build new local food markets the Summer Food through expanding its catering and Service Program I moved to Dayton’s Bluff in 2006 and value-added food products line. which together com- immediately felt at home in the commu- “We prioritize purchasing ingredi- prise America's nutri- nity. My kids and I started attending sto- ents at a fair price from local, under- tion safety net. For ry time at the library, toddler playtime at served farmers, who use sustainable more information, Dayton’s Bluff Recreation Center, and growing methods,” says Tracy Sides, visit www.fns.usda.- ECFE classes. I am a member of First founder and executive director of Ur- Steve Trimble gov. Lutheran Church. I served on the Indian ban Oasis. “We believe in building Mounds Playground Advisory Commit- economic opportunities for neighbors Participants of the "Hmong Food Traditions" luncheon held at Urban Oasis on August 15, 2015. tee and Dayton’s Bluff ECFE Advisory as well as farmers who live, grow, or Urban Oasis is a Committee. Seven years ago, I devel- sell produce in Saint Paul. The more Urban Oasis, but also other food busi- sustainable food center in Saint Paul oped Messy Fingers and Toes art class our food businesses succeed, the more nesses in the shared commercial that strives to create a healthy, re- for toddlers, because the Recreation purchases we can make from farmers, kitchen operated in partnership with Center was not offering much-needed silient, and prosperous community by the more jobs we will need to hire, Latino Economic Development Cen- strengthening the local food system programming. and the greater availability of deli- ter. I would like to see our neighborhood and increasing access and enjoyment cious, healthy food in our community. USDA's Agricultural Marketing become a destination spot for special of sustainably-grown, affordable, We’re grateful for the support from Service (AMS) works to improve businesses and events. We can do this whole food. Learn more at UrbanOa- global opportunities for U.S. growers by continuing the beautification of 7th USDA to help transform our food sys- sisMN.org. Page 6 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum December 2015

Jacqueline LaSan — Always school account. I took it out and went to Walmart, “Those are the basics that you need to get from Target, and some thrift stores to buy a printer and a day to day,” she says. “So if you’re looking for a job Trying to Make a Difference desk. I put them in my basement and turned the or looking for an apartment, at least you are able to Mark Gallagher, Associate Editor basement into an office — then just got started.” maintain your hygiene because once a person is LaSan went through The Nonprofit Council on homeless, maintaining his or her hygiene becomes a A lot of us don’t have much of an idea what peo- University Avenue to get her foundation started. hard thing to do. ple need when they lack a place to live. Jacqueline “They guide you through all the steps it takes to start “If I were to get an office, I would like to start off LaSan is trying to send a little love to the peo- on the East Side and hope to expand to oth- ple who find themselves in that situation. er nearby areas where I can help,” LaSan One day, about a year ago, the Spirit just hit says. “I’m new at this and I’m learning as I me,” LaSan says. “And He says to me, ‘Get go. I just want to take my time and learn ev- started. You have to start somewhere,’ and that’s erything I need to learn. when I decided to name it The Carol and Kahlin “I have children. I have a family, and I Foundation.” have a house that needs to be taken care of Carol and Kahlin are names that are dear to and maintained,” she says humbly. “But I LaSan. Her mother’s name was Carol and also want to teach my children, so one day I Kahlin was her daughter’s uncle. Both passed can give the business to them, and help away within 25 days of each other near the end them understand to always help people — of 2013. because you never know when you might “I think it was one of the saddest years of my need help. life,” she quietly says. “It was the holidays. I “This is an exciting time for me,” LaSan had already told my mom that she was going to says. “I look forward to helping out the help me build a shelter — because once I gradu- community. I want to help out if I can be- ate, I’m getting a shelter. So we were talking cause I was once in need of help. My mom about it all the time — that was my goal.” was scared to leave us kids alone. Jacqueline LaSan attends Century College in Mark Gallagher “To my knowledge, I don’t think there is White Bear Lake and will graduate in May a safe haven on the East Side; there’s a Jacqueline LaSan, founder of The Carol and Kahlin Foundation. 2016 with a degree in Human Services. “I have community center and it does a good job of been there since 2012,” she says. “But I took a a nonprofit,” she says. “You pay a $150.00 fee and helping people out — but I think the East Side could semester or two off when my mom and broth- they tell you what you need and what licenses you use a little more.“ er-in-law passed. I pushed my way through the end need to apply for. Then you tell the Nonprofit Coun- Jacqueline LaSan can be reached by phone: 651- of the semester. I just pushed myself because I just cil what your foundation is about, what your plans 399-1013. A Web site has been developed for the wasn’t emotionally and mentally there.” are, and then you have to abide by those plans.” foundation, and can accept donations. caroland- Her dream is to own and run a shelter, and she is LaSan and her family assemble hygiene kits to kahlinfoundation.org taking positive steps to realize that dream. When donate to women’s shelters that may need them. The asked what inspired her to put the idea of a shelter in hygiene kits contain very basic but essential items: Mark Gallagher is a professional writer and editor. her head, LaSan proudly says, “One morning the toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, washcloth, hand sani- He can be reached at [email protected]. Spirit touched me, and I had a few dollars in my tizer, and deodorant.

Dayton’s Bluff Seniors Golden commented that “we are Project Recovery Old St. Paul Group discusses ready and eager to serve the seniors history of Dayton's Bluff now serving seniors in in Payne-Phalen with our full range now accepting Payne-Phalen District of programs and resources. It’s a clothing donations Greg Cosimini great opportunity to reach seniors Forum Staff where they live.” People Incorporated's Project The Living at Home Network an- DBS services include rides to doc- Recovery, at 317 York Avenue, Dayton's Bluff resident and local nounces the expansion of Dayton’s tor appointments, the grocery store, is now accepting clothing dona- historian, Steve Trimble, presented a Bluff Seniors Living at Home Network post office, the beauty salon, and oth- tions. Cleaning out your closet talk about the history of Dayton's service area to now include seniors in er destinations. The Elder Café held this winter? Any clothing dona- Bluff at the Old St. Paul Facebook the Payne-Phalen community. every month offers entertainment and tions of lightly worn items are group event on November 21, at the welcome in the homeless ser- Dayton’s Bluff Seniors has been a nutritious lunch to guests, and our Historic Mounds Theatre. Over 70 vices division. They will go to operating in the east side neighbor- Wellness Clinics at two senior resi- people attended his talk to learn hood since 2008 and offers a wide patrons of the drop-in center and about one of the oldest neighbor- dences round out our offerings. Most the Housing First program, variety of services for seniors who services are provided at low cost or hoods in St. Paul. wish to remain independent and in which serves the underprivi- Pictured below, Steve (right) gets based on a sliding scale. leged homeless community in their homes. Diane Raff, Executive Senior residents who were previ- an assist from Karin DuPaul who Director of the Living at Home Net- the East Metro, and also pro- briefly spoke about the Hamm Brew- ously served by Payne-Phalen Elders vides outreach in Hennepin and work said “Dayton’s Bluff Seniors are encouraged to contact Dayton’s ery, Hamm family, and the many provides an important link to services Ramsey Counties. Call 651-225- Bluff Seniors at (651) 237-7633 or 8963 for more information. mansions they built in the Dayton's and resources for seniors in the com- (651) 400-1650 should they wish to Bluff neighborhood. munity, and we are pleased they are enroll in our programs. More infor- ready to share these with their Payne- mation on Dayton’s Bluff Seniors can Phalen neighbors.” be found online at www.daytons- DBS Executive Director, Janet bluffseniors.org.

Dayton’s Bluff District Forum 804 Margaret Street, St. Paul, MN 55106 Phone: 651-776-0550 E-mail: [email protected] Monthly circulation: 7,000; also available online at daytonsbluffdistrictforum.org. This publi- cation of Hopewell Communications, Inc. is intended to provide a forum for the ideas and opinions of its readers and to be an instrument for developing community awareness and pride. No material contained in this paper may be reprinted without consent of the editor. Ar- ticles and letters to the editor are welcome and may be emailed to [email protected]. The Dayton's Bluff District Forum is delivered to every home and business in the Dayton's Bluff neighborhood. Outside this area, subscriptions cost $15 per year and may be arranged by calling 651-776-0550. Board of Directors: Greg Cosimini, Karin DuPaul, Jennifer Herman, Sage Holben, Carla Riehle, Steve Trimble

Editor/Layout: Jennifer Gascoigne Associate Editor: Mark Gallagher Assistant Editor: Apryl Cave Greg Cosimini Next issue: February 2016. Deadline for material: January 10, 2016. Karin DuPaul and Steve Trimble spoke about the history of Dayton's Bluff to a crowd gathered at the Mounds Theatre on November 21. December 2015 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum Page 7 December 2015 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum Page 8

Take your right to vote! the end of 2015. Both the Council staff and communi- Tabitha Benci DeRango ty members have been hard at work & Jennifer Herman door knocking, emailing, phoning, and using social media to recruit candi- Special to the Forum dates. Their efforts have paid off in a strong slate of candidates in each of the In October, the Dayton’s Bluff Com- four sub districts within Dayton’s Bluff. munity Council invited residents to It is essential that everyone in Day- their annual dinner which usually in- ton’s Bluff exercise their right to vote. cludes elections for half of the seats on We need to elect a board made up of the board of directors. But this year residents who are strongly connected to they surprised residents by also an- their neighbors so that the community nouncing that elections had been post- can truly be engaged in the governance poned until February 2016, a violation process in our neighborhood and in of the Council’s by-laws and of Minne- Saint Paul. sota state statutes. Residents fought for this opportunity Residents attended the October to vote. So step up, do your part, and Council meeting and raised very seri- vote during the week of December 14- ous concerns about losing their right to 18, or at the annual meeting on Decem- Greg Cosimini vote this year. The board responded by ber 21. You can make a difference just Two grumpy pumpkins did not appreciate the sudden switch to winter that occurred in voting to reschedule the annual meeting by marking a ballot! so that elections could take place before Dayton's Bluff on November 26, Thanksgiving Day.

Minnesota Public Safety Minnesota’s Public Safety Commis- Mounds Park United Methodist Church Commissioner Mona Dohman sioner. “Mona Dohman exemplifies so 1049 Euclid Street (corner of Earl and Euclid); 651-774-8736 named Metropolitan State Mounds Park United Methodist on Facebook many of the traits that are characteris- Alum of the Year tic of Metropolitan State students, and Mounds Park United Methodist Church is a community based, multi- Metropolitan State University is her career of public service is an out- cultural congregation located at 1049 Euclid Street at the corner of Earl and honored to recognize Minnesota Pub- standing example. For these and Euclid. We strive to build on the positive assets of Dayton’s Buff; working lic Safety Commissioner Mona many other reasons, I am proud to in- together as neighbors while improving our community. Dohman as the 2015 Alumna of the troduce Commissioner Mona Everyone is invited to the following community events: Year. Dohman was recognized at the Dohman as Metropolitan State Uni- Metropolitan State University Foun- versity’s Alumna of the Year,” Interim Wednesday, December 16, starting at Noon – Community Friendship dation Scholarship Celebration President Devinder Malhotra said at Gathering with hot lunch. We begin with a hot lunch of Stuffed Pork Chops, the award ceremony. mashed potatoes and gravy, pear salad, rolls, and dessert, followed by music awards ceremony on Thursday, No- vember 5, at the Saint Paul Campus. Dohman was appointed commission- from the Mounds Park UMC Women’s Chorus. All are welcome; the focus of er of the Minnesota Department of Pub- this event is on persons age 55 and over. A donation of $8.00 is suggested. Dohman graduated from Metropoli- tan State in 1998 with an individualized lic Safety by Gov. Mark Dayton in The Children’s Christmas Pageant entitled “O Jesse Tree, O Jesse Tree; a bachelor’s degree focusing in criminal January 2011. She oversees a $600 mil- Living Advent Calendar” will be presented on Sunday, December 20, at 10:30 justice administration. She later re- lion budget, 2,100 employees and 14 a.m. Afterward, everyone is invited to celebrate Christ’s birthday in the ceived a master’s degree in educational divisions, including Driver and Vehicle Fellowship Hall with special treats for the kids. administration with a focus in police Services, Minnesota State Patrol, Bu- leadership from the University of St. reau of Criminal Apprehension, Home- Community Christmas Eve Candle Light Services at 4:00 p.m. and 11:00 land Security, and Emergency p.m. The church will be festively decorated for the season, special Christmas Thomas, and is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Management. Prior to her appoint- music will be offered, candlelight and carols, and a meditation entitled: ment, Dohman served 10 years as “Rejoice: God Comes To Us!” All are invited! VA. She has committed her career to chief of the Maple Grove Police De- earning the public’s trust, which she partment. She joined the department views as a “gift.” Dohman has merit- in 1984 and served as an investigator, ed the public trust during 33 years in patrol officer, sergeant and captain public safety – 10 years as Maple before her promotion to chief in 2001. Grove’s police chief. For the past Dohman’s nearly 33 years of law en- four-plus years, she has claimed one forcement experience also includes of the state’s top public-trust posts— serving as a patrol officer in Glencoe and Marshall.

Metropolitan State uated cum laude, and an MBA from the University of Minnesota Carlson names new trustee to School of Management. Foundation Board “I’ve always been interested in education, especially helping non-tradi- tional learners get in to and graduate Metropolitan State University has from college,” Lais says. “I’ve always named a new member to the Metro- considered Metropolitan State Univer- politan State Foundation Board of sity to be a leader in this regard, and I Trustees. hope to help build it so more people Greg Lais, founder and executive can get access to quality education.” director of Wilderness Inquiry, will Metropolitan State University, a serve a three-year appointment. member of the Minnesota State Col- Lais founded Wilderness Inquiry in leges and Universities system, is Karin DuPaul 1978. Wilderness Inquiry is a non- America’s premier university for life- Newly elected Ward 7 City Council member Jane Prince, Sue Thune, retiring Ward 2 City profit outdoor recreation and educa- long learning, providing unsurpassed, Council member Dave Thune, and Jane's husband – former Dayton's Bluff Community tion organization that annually serves competitive academic and profession- Council President Dave Murphy, at the celebration of Jane's election win on November 3. more than 25,000 people of all ages, al degree programs at the bachelor’s, backgrounds, and abilities. Prior to master’s and doctoral levels while founding Wilderness Inquiry, Lais maintaining affordability. served as administrator at Camp New The mission of the Metropolitan Hope for Developmentally Disabled State University Foundation is to gen- Citizens. Since 1993, he has also erate maximum public awareness, as served as an adjunct faculty in the well as governmental and private sup- Recreation, Park and Leisure Studies port, for Metropolitan State Universi- program, School of Kinesiology at the ty, and to assist the university in its University of Minnesota. development as a comprehensive, ur- Lais holds a bachelor’s degree in ban university in the Twin Cities met- Psychology from St. John’s University ropolitan area for changing and in Collegeville, Minn. where he grad- diverse student needs. December 2015 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum Page 9

Are you interested in fostering or every six weeks since February). I am amazed to see The true reward for me is seeing the transformation how fast they are adopted once they get their freedom from sad faces and crowded kennel pictures from adopting a rescue dog? ride to Minnesota. The average I've had a foster dog at down south, turned into big smiles as dogs go home Kari Soeffker my home is 10-14 days before they go home to their with their new forever families. The satisfaction I get forever family. There are many "foster failures" hap- far outweighs my attachment to them. Special to the Forum If you have any interest in applying to be a foster or learning about the rescues and seeing the available Are you interested in fostering or adopting a rescue dogs, here are some non-profit rescues I've worked dog? I live in Dayton's Bluff and as a dog lover my- with: Secondhand Hounds in Eden Prairie. Many dogs self, I was curious about what fostering entailed for a in Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee spend months in long time. Many questions came to mind; what if the a shelter just to "run out of time" simply due to lack of dog I chose to foster didn't get adopted right away and space. I'd have him for months and months? What if I devel- Rescues work with "Mobile Mutts" and other indi- oped an emotional attachment to the dog and had to vidual volunteers to drive several different legs of endure the agony of giving her up? I thought about the their journey to Minnesota. Midwest Animal Rescue supplies that I didn't have – the food, treats, leashes, (MARS) in Brooklyn Park provides a free question collars, kennels, toys, bowls, and everything else and answer fostering class every Saturday from 10:00 needed. Would I have to purchase all of this myself? a.m. to 12:00 p.m. I decided to start my research by looking up differ- At Coco's Heart in Hudson, Wisconsin, you can see ent foster and rescue organizations and reading any- the dogs that are in need of fosters listed on thing I could to educate myself on what I was in for. their facebook page. They host a new foster orienta- I learned that in the Twin Cities, and Minnesota in tion on the second Friday of every month from 6:00 general, we are blessed with many great rescues. We p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at their office. During the orienta- have a strong network of dedicated people helping this tion, you will learn more about their mission and the cause and we have a good record of spaying and neu- important roll you play as a foster family. tering our dogs. Unfortunately, this isn't the case in Once in the care of the rescues, the dogs are vacci- many southern states and they are overwhelmed with Kari Soeffker nated, microchipped, and spayed or neutered. The res- an abundance of stray dogs. cues provide everything you need to foster free of Fox 9 News has a great video you can watch called Chanelle, a recently adopted five month old Golden charge including food, treats, collars, leashes, and ken- "Puppy Pipeline" which aired this summer and Retriever/Collie mix from Kentuky, rescued by nels/crates. explains how and why all these dogs are coming to the Secondhand Hounds. Good luck on your fostering/rescuing journey and Twin Cities to get adopted. With my research complete pening every week, meaning that a foster decides to feel free to call the rescues listed, other rescues in the and my questions answered, I decided I was going to the adopt the dog they are fostering themselves as they metro area, or myself if you have any questions. Kari be a part of this. find the dog to be such a perfect fit for their family. Soeffker can be reached at 651-774-3005. I have now fostered 10 dogs (an average of one dog Fortunately, I haven't fallen into this category...yet!

patios, balconies, and walk-in closets. What is it? Shared amenities available at The Cam- Karin DuPaul bric include community and fitness Forum Staff rooms, on-site salon, outdoor patio and plaza, common area fire places, and un- I was recently asked “what is that derground parking. The Cambric is owned and operated new building being built on East 7th by Dominium. Founded in 1972, Do- internship had been a game-changer Street?” The new apartment building Metropolitan State minium is a Minneapolis-based owner, for them, altering their career trajecto- named “The Cambric” at 720 East 7th University Awarded ry and opening a new set of opportu- developer, and manager of apartment Street will open during the summer of communities nationwide. With more $444,429 Career Ready nities which simply would not have 2016. The Cambric is a senior (55+) af- been possible without the funding than 21,000 owned and/or managed Internship Grant from fordable living building. It will have units at 180-plus sites across the coun- made available through this award,” 113 units of senior rental housing and it try, Dominium is known for creative so- Great Lakes says Greg Mellas, director of the In- is right next door to the new Mississippi lutions to unique and challenging stitute for Community Engagement Market. development projects, and management Metropolitan State University has and Scholarship. The Cambric will offer open floor expertise. For more information visit been awarded a three-year, $444,429 Metropolitan State will collaborate plans, nine-foot ceilings, washer/dryer, www.dominiumapartments.com. Career Ready Internship Grant from with businesses and nonprofit organi- Great Lakes Higher Education Guar- zations to provide the greatest number anty Corporation. An anticipated 335 of current and future students with an new paid internships will be created educational opportunity they might during the 2015-2018 academic years. not otherwise have. Internships will Metropolitan State University is be targeted to undergraduate students one of 33 colleges and universities in studying to enter the science, technol- Minnesota, Iowa, Ohio, and Wiscon- ogy, math, chemistry fields, the Col- sin that received a combined $12 mil- lege of Management, and in areas of lion in Great Lakes grants to make social entrepreneurship. internships more equitable for their Strong preference for the grant is students with financial need. This is given to institutions that are most the second time Metropolitan State proactive in coordinating with the has received a grant from Great Lakes business and nonprofit community to for developing paid internships for its create new paid internships. students. Last year, 117 paid intern- Following three months of adminis- ships were created with the grant. trative planning, employer outreach “It is difficult to overstate just how and student recruitment, Metropolitan important The Great Lakes Career State will place eligible juniors and Ready award is to the university and seniors in paid internships beginning Karin DuPaul Metro State students. During our ini- in January 2016. The Great Lakes tial 2014-2015 award period, many grant period continues through May “The Cambric,” located at 720 East 7th Street, will be Dayton's Bluff's newest 55+ students reported that a paid academic 2018. senior living option. Page 10 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum December 2015

come as you are and play - and have fun! Saint Paul East Side On August 17, 2015, we had a formal dedication ceremony on field #5, with an Optimist Club's first year unveiling of the signage by Councilman Ann Polachek Dan Bostrom and Program Director Kong President Chang, that reads: "Optimist Field Home of Sandlot Baseball - Tues and Wed 5:30- The Saint Paul East Side Optimist Club is celebrat- 7:00." This was followed by a sandlot base- ing its first year anniversary following our charter with ball game with 40 girls and boys taking their the Optimist International on November 13, 2014. turn at bat and in the field. A professional The Optimists International is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit umpire volunteered his time. Baseball food Organization that is 96 years old and whose mission is was served following the game.The event “Bringing Out the Best in Kids." was co-sponsored by the Parks and Recre- Each club is autonomous, with its members serving ation Department and the Duluth-Case the youth in their community in any way they see fit – Anita Johnson Booster Club we see the need and react to it. Our first season of sandlot baseball end- Before the club was formed, member Dave Ander- The Saint Paul East Side Optimist Club at the dedication of Optimist ed at the Wilder Playground as part of the son (who has written three books on baseball) and I, Field on August 15. Payne Avenue Harvest Festival. brought wiffle ball to the Saint Paul Police Depart- We will continue with sandlot baseball as ment's 2014 "Safe Summer Nights" at the city’s vari- we plan a new program that is part of the ous parks and playgrounds. We made two observations. Minnesota Twins RBI League, RBI meaning First, that most boys and girls didn't know how to Reviving Baseball In the Inner Cities. The swing a bat or use a glove. Secondly, that they really program would consist of two teams of both enjoyed playing ball and did not want to quit when the boys and girls. One team is for kids 12 and event ended. With these observations and the fact that under and the other for 10 and under. there is a national decline in baseball in the inner cities, Next, we will be working with high it became the impetus to form the club and promote school students to compete in the Optimists' sandlot baseball. Essay Contest. Subsequently, on May 2, in partnership with the Ar- Also, along the way we donated a portable lington Hills Community Center we held a "kick off" electric sewing machine to the Arlington Hills program featuring a baseball clinic held by Mr. Steve Community Center for the sewing classes in Winfield of the legendary baseball family. This event their teen center and recently concluded a 5- included the serving of baseball food that brought fam- weekend cribbage course as well. Fred Kaphingst ilies together, a mini parade, a concert by the 200+ So, that is a recap of our first year that Farnsworth School Band, and concluded with a show- A sandlot baseball game was played by 40 girls and boys in honor of we all are proud of. We now look forward ing of the movie Sandlot. the dedication of Optimist Field. to the coming year. Following this, we were invited to the Duluth-Case The program offers an opportunity for those not fa- If anyone is interested in joining our Playground with its many ball fields, to start the pro- club, please contact me at: Polly's Coffee Cove, gram which was held twice-a-week. Many of the youth miliar with baseball, or due to circumstances are un- Attn: Ann Polachek, 1382 Payne Ave., St. Paul MN participating were of the Karen ethnic group. able to participate in organized baseball, to simply 55130; 651-771-5531. December 2015 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum Page 11

The Story of Maria Bates Dayton cluding Charles St. Clair, a clerk from England, Hannah house in Elk River on the east side of the river opposite and Betsy Johnston, listed as Swedish servants, Balt Ke- Dayton, Minnesota. With her 35 year old husband ton and Patrick McMahon, Irish laborers. Michael, who is listed as a farmer, they shared a struc- Steve Trimble Maria was a very strong Baptist and it is said that she ture with five others – probably employees – whose ages Forum Historian was responsible for having had lumber brought up from ranged from 17 to 24. Michael died a year later on Au- the St. Croix River to build the first church for her con- gust 20, 1881. Readers may know that Maria Street and Bates Street gregation in downtown St. Paul. When completed, it was In the 1880s, the Pioneer Press reported that Maria were so named in 1854 in honor of the wife of Lyman carpeted; she placed a Bible on the altar and deeded it had died. They later received a letter from her saying Dayton. We have written about Lyman several times and over to the church. they were in error. Finally, on December 27, 1896, the there is little need to tell his story again. That’s why this St. Paul Globe ended the speculation with the headline history article will tell some of the story of Maria Bates “Death of Mrs. Nell. Lyman Dayton’s wife, the pioneer Dayton. resident, dies poor.” She was found in her home near Maria was born in 1811 in Rhode Island and raised in present-day Elk River. “Mrs. Dayton, while once very Providence by her aunt and uncle from the age of six wealthy, died in straitened circumstances,” the writer when her mother died. Hers was a comfortable early life said, “a large part of her fortune having been taken by in a home with servants. It is not currently known how the depreciation in real estate values…coupled with a she met her husband-to-be, but is on record that the eigh- great deal of expensive litigation with her son.” teen year old married Lyman Dayton on January 2, 1831. The son, Lyman C. Dayton, had died a year earlier. Their only child, known as Lyman C., was born around “For many years he was at litigation continuously with 1834. his mother over the property left by the father and hus- Lyman Sr. was a financially successful merchant who band.” Much of the trouble was linked to the second “in consequence of ill-health, he retired from active la- marriage of Maria, “which created considerable excite- bor” and headed for Minnesota in 1849. The Dayton ment at the time.” One source suggested he was their family arrived at St. Paul on the steamboat Dr. Franklin, gardener, but the Globe said that Nell was “was formerly along with William LeDuc. They both took up lodging at the family coachman,” who left St. Paul for the Civil the Central House, the principal hotel in town. LeDuc War and married the widow several years after his re- later wrote “the next day while walking in front of the turn. They moved to a farm across the river from Day- hotel, Mrs. Dayton called from an open window excited- ton, Minnesota. The newspaper ended with the following ly to me, ‘Come and help me quick. Mr. Baker has the Dayton's Bluff District Forum Archives observation: “Mrs. Nell was a peculiar woman who cholera!’ Mrs. Dayton was frightened and said she had seemed to have the faculty for getting into unfortunate given him all the brandy she had and he must have some Maria Bates Dayton. quarrels with people. She lost most of her property more. I got more brandy and she insisted on his taking it, Lyman died in 1865 and Maria had him buried on through litigation, and was a constant figure in the altho' he was then drunk. He recovered next day.” their property and probably remained there for a time. courts. She lived to a ripe old age, being in the neighbor- While in Minnesota, their first appearance in the cen- Then, in what may have been a surprising move, Maria hood of ninety.” sus was in 1850. The three were living in the downtown married again on March 21, 1873. While remarriage was An old history book’s comments after the death of area, as was almost everyone. They had no live-in ser- fairly common at the time, she became the bride of Maria might serve as her epitaph: “Her barque,” (which vants. Lyman was forty, Maria a year younger and son Michael Nell who had been a family employee. Then is a sailing vessel) “lighted by the love and charity she Lyman C. was nineteen. By 1854 they built a very large there is the fact that he was 33 years younger than her. has given others here on earth, will guide her safely to frame house in today’s Dayton’s Bluff. According to the The 1880 census finds 68 year old Maria B. Nell in a the dim unknown.” 1860 census, six others – most likely employees – in- Page 12 Dayton’s Bluff District Forum December 2015

Have Forum, will travel

Several readers sent us pictures of themselves reading our newspaper on their travels. If you'd like to do the same, please email photos to [email protected]. Rich DuPaul reading the Dayton's Bluff District Forum at Wall Drug on his way back from the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. After all that reading in the sun, we hope he drank lots of the “free iced water” the roadside signs promise.

At left: Tom Beer took his copy of the Forum all the way to Sumvitg, Switzerland. That's really Sumvitg! Grant Offermann just couldn't tear himself away from the local news. Not even a visit to the OK Corral Famous Gunfight Site while on vacation in Tombstone, Arizona, could distract this devoted reader.

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