A thing of beauty is Summer camp options St. Paul Ballet is a joy forever. Even a abound for kids in breaking down barriers 76-year old canoe. the metro so that all can dance PAGE 7 PAGE 8 PAGE 15

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March 2018 Vol. 43 No. 8 www.MonitorSaintPaul.com 21,000 Circulation • Spring Café awarded five-year contract to operate at Como Pavilion By JANE MCCLURE terers provided food service at weekdays during peak season Visitors to Como Park the pavilion. and no weekday hours during and its economic pavilion New operator Matty the winter. Saturday and Sun- will enjoy a new dining op- O’Reilly is not only a veteran day hours during peak season tion. And everyone is hoping restaurateur, he already works are 9am-9pm, and 9am-3pm that with the new operator, the with the Department of Parks during the off-season. The op- third time is the charm. and Recreation to operate Red erator and city will work to- On Feb. 14, the St. Paul River Kitchen at the City House gether to see if there can be City Council approved a 23- at Upper Landing. That facili- promenade access during the page contract with O’Reilly ty is in what used to be a head peak season, before opening Custom 3 LLC to operate the house and sack house for a the restaurant. pavilion, 1360 Lexington Pkwy. larger grain elevator complex. Peak season is considered N., on a recommendation from Area residents may also Mothers’ Day to Labor Day. the Parks and Recreation Com- know O’Reilly as owner-opera- The hours are a major mission. The name announced The Pavilion at Como Park, the future home of Spring Cafe. tor of Delicata Pizza & Gelato, change from the Como Dock- is Spring Café. 1341 Pascal St., in the Como side operation, which shut A request for proposals was neighborhood. its doors in November 2017. posted in December 2017, and Spring Café will be the judgment against the city after The agreement takes effect Those operators dealt with very the restaurant operator was third restaurant operator at the it was ousted in 2014. That Apr. 1 and continues through slow weekday hours during the chosen from who applied be- pavilion in recent years. Como restaurant had operated for 13 2023, with an option for an fall and winter months. Como fore a January deadline. Dockside closed last fall. In years, and on Como Ave. be- additional five-year renewal. Dockside had to open at 7am The City Council approved 2015 Como Dockside had re- fore that. It also has a clause allowing under its city contract. the contract without discussion placed Black Bear Crossings, Before Black Bear a combi- termination. It calls for opera- The new operator will also as part of its consent agenda. which won an $800,000 legal nation of city workers and ca- tions between 11am and 9pm Continued on page 4 Program helps those with sensory processing needs enjoy zoo more Como works with Autism Society on handouts and maps to help families prepare before they get into zoo

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN offer when it comes to sights, sensory experiences.” “When we go to events like one-time thing. For those with sensory is- sounds, smells, and tempera- The goal of this new pro- these, we find that knowing the Upcoming dates include sues, it can be hard to visit the tures, that it can sometimes gram is to provide families re- staff and other visitors under- Sundays, Mar. 11, Apr. 8, May zoo, but Como is launching a be overwhelming,” remarked sources and tools to support stand unique struggles can be 13, June 10, July 8, July 22, new program to change that. Noah Petermeier of Como Zoo them and make their time at helpful,” said Autism Society of Aug. 5, and Aug. 19; and Visitors who have family and Conservatory. “We are so Como more accessible. Minnesota Education Specialist Wednesdays, June 13, July 11, members on the autism spec- lucky to have such a dynamic “We can’t take away some Lucas Scott, who added that it July 25, Aug. 8 and Aug. 22. trum or those with sensory pro- facility that allows visitors to of these sensory experiences eases any embarrassment that Families can arrive be- cessing needs will now be able have unique learning experi- like the smells and sounds, but might develop. tween 9-10am on the select- to enter Como Zoo one hour ences. Keeping that in mind, it what we can do is provide fam- Scott is excited about the ed dates. They should enter before doors open to the gen- is important for us at Como to ilies with resources to help pre- zoo’s commitment to hold through the visitor center main eral public on selected Sundays acknowledge what we can do pare them for their experience these Autism Sensory Friendly entrance. The early entry days and Wednesdays. to assist those who might have and set them up for success,” Mornings monthly and make it “Como has so much to challenges processing these stated Petermeier. a regular offering rather than a Continued on page 4

“Como has so much to offer when it comes to sights, sounds, smells, and temperatures, that it can sometimes be overwhelming,” remarked Noah Petermeier of Como. “We can’t take away some of these sensory experiences like the smells and sounds, but what we can do is provide families with resources to help prepare them for their experience and set them up for success.” (Photos submitted) Everyone loves to ‘mix it up’ in the Creative Enterprise Zone Article and photos ment, commercial leasing, and by MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN new development projects. She The Creative Enterprise Zone is also a licensed commercial (CEZ) is a well-established hub real estate agent. “I get to go to of industry and creativity, radi- my job every day and work on ating out in all directions from re-connecting neighborhoods. the intersection of Raymond and What could be better!” she said. University avenues. Reid Day concluded, “The Home to many creative Mixer Series has been great be- businesses and nonprofit cause we’re able to invite all groups, the CEZ itself became kinds of people into creative a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organiza- spaces in the CEZ for conver- tion in the fall of 2017, making sation.” it possible to receive funding In addition to many cre- from a broader range of foun- atives and makers living and dations. working in the CEZ, staff of Originally formed in 2009 the Department of Planning as a task force of the St. An- and Economic Development thony Park Community Coun- showed up in full force for this cil, the CEZ now has its own mixer. And why shouldn’t City twelve-member working board. Hall be interested in what’s As part of an ongoing se- CEZ board chair Catherine Reid Day welcomed 100+ attendees to the mixer happening in the CEZ? Accord- ries, they hosted a mixer on held at the Naughty Greek Restaurant on Feb. 26th. The topic of discussion ing to Reid Day, “this district Feb. 26 at The Naughty Greek was Innovative Development for a Creative Economy. provides more tax revenue to Restaurant (2400 University the state than any other.” Ave. W.). The Naughty Greek panel discussion. Seward Redesign in Minne- The next mixer will be held is a fairly new addition to the Clapp explained, “Can Can apolis, is a resident of Ham- in early April, time and place restaurant scene that serves up Wonderland (755 Prior Ave. line-Midway, and a new CEZ still TBD. Check the website at authentic Athenian street food N.) is proud to be the first arts- board member. Her work is www.creativeenterprisezoneorg at their two St. Paul locations. based public benefit corpora- focused on business develop- for updates. The mixer addressed ques- tion in Minnesota (called a B tions unique to the CEZ about Corp). That means that we can live/work spaces, the growing place value both on being an trend of maker spaces, the fu- economic engine for the arts ture of space development for and on being a profitable com- creative entrepreneurs, and the pany. The American Can Fac- opportunities and challenges tory was the perfect place to associated with transit-oriented create Can Can Wonderland be- development. cause it had the space we need- The event was funded by ed at a price point we could af- the Knight Foundation. Jai Win- ford.” ston, St. Paul Program Direc- “The positive energy of the tor for the Knight Foundation, Dr. Bruce Corrie, newly appointed CEZ,” Peter Remes said, “was added closing remarks. Director of Planning and Economic a big part of what drew me to According to board chair development for the City of St. Paul want to develop Vandalia Tower Catherine Reid Day, “At the said, “We have every intention of at 550 Vandalia St. The 220,000 heart of everything we do for becoming the best city in the country square foot building was in ter- the CEZ is the belief that cre- for the creative economy.” rible shape, but so many other ativity and economic devel- things about the decision felt opment go hand in hand. We right. Ultimately, it was because very much want to preserve the of Summit Group/KW Com- of the neighborhood that we lively mix of people and enter- mercial; First and First CEO decided to put our stake in the prises that make up our zone. Peter Remes, a company that ground.” In the usual scheme of gentri- transforms derelict urban ware- Renee Spillum works as fication, this presents real chal- houses into creative, inspir- a senior project manager for lenges.” ing, worker spaces; and Renee The main mixer event was Spillum, Senior Project Man- a panel discussion about these ager with the community de- challenges. Panelists were Can velopment corporation Seward Can Wonderland’s Rob Clapp, Redesign. CEZ board member owner and real estate broker Lucas Koska moderated the

Page 2 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com By JANE MCCLURE Monitor In A Minute Update given on survey work or local, could also be decided. Scott Banas, Laura LaC- would continue. But that kind Swanson said projects that oc- Follow city work on the roix-Dalluhn, Jon Oppen- Neighbors interested in a pro- of process would slow down cupy vacant storefronts would survey at https://www.stpaul. heimer and John Van Hecke posed historic survey of the studies for neighborhoods that get favorable consideration gov/departments/planning-eco- had also interviewed for the in- neighborhood around Hamline want the option of accessory during the project review pro- nomic-development/planning/ terim post. University got an update Feb. dwelling units. cess. current-activities. 19, along with an overview of “There are pockets of in- Small businesses will be able Approval sought for terest throughout the city,” to seek grant-only assistance. area history. Interim council member named Despite a snowstorm, there ‘accessory dwellings’ said former Ward Four Council Grants will have to be matched was a good turnout for the Ham- Samantha Henningson is the The topic of accessory dwelling Member Russ Stark. He heard on a dollar for dollar basis. line-Midway Reconnaissance interim St. Paul City Council units, such as an apartment in from constituents who live just Swanson said larger busi- Survey. It is a historic survey of Ward Four member. She was a home or housing above a ga- outline of the Green Line area nesses will still have to seek properties and identification of appointed Feb. 14 to replace rage, will be studied by the St. where the dwelling units are loans or a grant-loan combina- historic contexts, development Russ Stark, who has joined Paul Planning Commission. allowed. Those constituents tion. The city will also ease the patterns, and historic resources Mayor Melvin Carter III’s ad- On Feb. 7 the City Coun- question why they cannot add match requirements for small in the Hamline Midway neigh- ministration. cil approved a study that in- the units to their properties. businesses, with no match at borhood. Henningson has worked as cludes the West 7th, West Side, all for loans of up to $50,000. Those present learned Stark’s legislative aide for all Frogtown, District One and Changes meant to help Technical changes are also about the project and how of his 10 years in office. She Mounds Park neighborhoods. small businesses being made to streamline the they can help provide informa- previously worked for Hamline In late February Union Park Changes to the Neighborhood reimbursement process. tion. The meeting was part of University and is a founder of District Council sought to have Sales Tax Revitalization (STAR) An informational work- the regular Hamline University Women on Bikes. Henningson its neighborhoods added to guidelines, meant to help shop about the Neighborhood Neighborhood Advisory Com- the study. and her family live in Ham- small businesses, won approv- STAR Program and application mittee meeting. An update was Older neighborhoods with line-Midway neighborhood. al Feb. 7 from the St. Paul City process was held Feb 14. Ap- to be provided in January but larger homes, including Ram- She was chosen from a Council. plications are being accepted was postponed that month due field of six candidates who in- sey Hill and Summit Hill, have The council, Neighbor- through Wed., Mar. 21, at 4pm. to a storm. terviewed for the interim post. carriage house apartments or hood STAR Board, and Depart- More than $2.8 million The project is being fol- Those who interviewed agreed other forms of accessory dwell- ment of Planning and Econom- will be available in loans and lowed closely by the St. Paul that if they were chosen they ings that predate the zoning ic Development staff have dis- grants for capital (bricks and Heritage Preservation Commis- would not seek election to the code. Neighborhoods one-half cussed the changes for a couple mortar) improvement projects sion, which received an update seat in August. mile north and south of Green of years. Michelle Swanson, in neighborhoods that further Feb. 22. The survey is being A new council member will Line light rail, except for Frog- the city staff for the program, economic, commercial or res- funded through a mix of feder- be chosen during the statewide town, have newer zoning regu- said the intent is to get more idential development. After a al, state, and city funds. primary election. That person lations that allow the units to for-profit small businesses in- complete review, funding de- Those present got an up- will serve through 2019 (the be added in a home or above volved. A second goal is to fill cisions will be announced in date on neighborhood history remaining year-plus of Stark’s a garage. vacant commercial storefronts. July 2018. (including industrial history), term). 2019 is when all seven Ward Seven Council Mem- and talked about upcoming council seats are on the ballot. ber Jane Prince sought the meetings that will be part of City Council members in study at the behest of Mounds the project. St. Paul are part-time and are Park residents. But other There will also be addi- paid $63,000 year. council members said there is tional community outreach. Ward Four includes all of growing interest in studying Letters to the Editor What could ultimately re- Merriam Park, Hamline-Mid- the dwelling units. The coun- sult hinges on study findings, way, and St. Anthony Park cil discussed whether there Hello from new Ward 4 Council rep but the neighborhood could neighborhoods, and parts of should be a citywide study, or have a district or individual Como, and Macalester-Grove- if the study should only cover Hello, Ward 4 residents, busi- Other staffing changes are sites designated. The type of land. areas where there is interest. nesses, employees, and partners, afoot in my office. Kelly Bauer, designation, such as national Autumn Amadou-Blegen, Some neighborhoods, includ- I am pleased to share that I who served for nearly five years ing Summit Hill and High- have been officially sworn in as as our wonderful Executive As- sistant fielding your inquiries land, have fought the idea. The the Ward 4 interim Councilmem- ber, and will be serving through and tracking down answers, has Green Line accessory dwellings August 2018 when the special moved on to another position proposal drew a mixed reac- election results are certified. I with the City. Her replacement is tion in St. Anthony Park. have big shoes to fill (literally) in flux, so please be patient while “From a staff perspective, but know that I can rely on the we’re in transition. we need to see if there is com- ten years I’ve spent as the Ward On Feb. 26, Libby Kantner munity support” before doing 4 Legislative Aide. The relation- joined the Ward 4 office as Legis- a study citywide, said City ships and expertise I’ve devel- lative Aide. Libby has most recent- Planner Jamie Radel. She sug- oped will allow me to serve you ly been serving the City as the Co- gested a series of open hous- effectively, as well as continue ordinator for the Police Civilian es and events to explain what much of the work Russ and I did Internal Affairs Review Commis- an accessory dwelling unit is. together. sion (PCIARC) and before that, Community reaction could A little about me: I’m a was the Ward 3 Legislative Aide. I determine where the studies proud Hamline Midway resident am so excited to have Libby’s ex- and have been since 2004 (aside pertise and energy in my office, from a brief, ill-advised stint and grateful to have her aboard! living in south Minneapolis). I More to come, but I wanted live on Lafond Ave. with my hus- to keep you apprised of changes Monitor band, two kids, and two cats, in the Ward 4 office. I am excit- where we enjoy growing vegeta- ed to continue this work. Please 125 First Ave. NW, PO Box 168 • Minneapolis MN 55369 bles in our front yard during the don’t hesitate to reach out if you 651-645-7045 half of the year we don’t live on have questions or concerns. I the Minnesota tundra. I have a look forward to representing you. Publishers: releases for publication can be sent via e-mail at bachelor’s degree in English and The best way to contact me is to Calvin deRuyter, Tim Nelson [email protected]. Be sure to send a master’s degree in Education, use the [email protected] copy in the body of the e-mail, and please mark Managing Editor: whether the copy is a letter, a news release for with a specific focus on policy. address or call 651-266-8640. Please be patient with us as we Calvin deRuyter, [email protected] publication, or perhaps just your thoughts on the last issue. Don’t forget to write! transition to full staffing. 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Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer www.MonitorSaintPaul.com • Monitor • March 2018 Page 3 A longtime industrial site near three rapid bus lines eyed for Prior Ave. and Pierce Butler Rte. design and engineering stud- has reached a milestone in clean- ies. The goal would be to offer up work. The federal Environ- Development Roundup service in 2020. Other transit mental Protection Agency (EPA) projects in the region would announced in February that the By JANE MCCLURE also be a focus. former Plating Inc. plant site has The A line has stops just been cleaned up. Area residents south of Marshall, at Day- now wonder if redevelopment is ton and Selby avenues. If the ahead. Pollution cleanup done at Plating Inc. site B Line is developed, it would The EPA, state, county and provide intersecting bus rapid city officials jumped into action away more than a year ago. property goes through the prop- many local and regional proj- transit at the first location in last summer to clean and secure In an announcement, EPA erty tax foreclosure process. City ects, one inclusion being St. Paul. the property at 888 Prior Ave. N. officials said they have removed and county officials have heard watched closely would connect Marshall Ave. is currently The abandoned chemicals, many the immediate health threat. But from developers interested in the with the area’s popular A Line the focus of a zoning study to in vats and leaking containers, now the federal agency must take site, but no developer names or bus. determine where changes could generated a fog-like haze inside Action to recover its costs. The future uses have been announced. Dayton included three be made. There is also a zoning the building. EPA is deciding if it can find a re- Although the property has had in- Metropolitan Council initia- moratorium on six blocks of The announcement ends sponsible party to cover the costs, dustrial uses for decades, it is just tives in his $1.5 billion bond- that street, which is part of a months of work at the property. the total of which hasn’t been an- west of a small residential neigh- ing proposal, including $50 study to determine where, and Crews removed more than 15,000 nounced. borhood. million for regional bus rapid if, historic properties should be gallons of hazardous acids, 14 One possibility to help recov- transit projects. saved—and if there is a need tons of acid sludge, and more er costs is when and if the prop- More transit is The area bus line eyed for historic district protection than 67 tons of caustic liquids erty is sold and redeveloped. One a development impetus would be the B Line on Mar- for parts of the neighborhood. and solids. The previous owners possibility discussed at a com- shall Ave. in St. Paul and Lake Those studies are to be com- of the property shut the metal While Gov. Mark Dayton’s munity meeting in 2017 is if the St. in Minneapolis. It is one of pleted by this fall. plating plant down and walked 2018 bonding bill left out

brought quiet rooms to events currently partners with the Como Zoo/Autism “The hope is that families like Pride to create a little sen- “I generally think the Autism Society of Minneso- Society collaboration will be able to better sory-friendly bubble in an oth- easiest way to understand ta (AuSM) to host year-round erwise not sensory-friendly en- camps for elementary and high Continued from page 1 prepare for their visit vironment,” stated Scott. anyone is to recognize a school-aged students. by reading through the person for who they are “We wanted to continue will include early access to zoo Plan the visit our outreach to these families exhibits and zoo grounds, a social narrative. They and not only by a disability and other families for a free, sensory story time, and a quiet Prior to starting this new senso- can look at the photos, ry-friendly program, Como met label.” early access experience,” re- room where families can go to marked Petermeier. take a break if needed. Other with representatives from AuSM read the text, understand to create a sensory map, social He added, “Our partner- partnering organizations will – Lucas Scott, Autism ship with AuSM has been such also have resources available expectations, and ease narrative, and visual schedule. They can be found at www.co- Society of Minnesota a successful and celebrated for families. some uncertainties that program here at Como. I am According to Scott, there mozooconservatory.org under the “Plan your visit” tab. so excited to offer this new are many misconceptions out their family might have schedule. These items help attendees program to a larger audience there regarding those with au- “The hope is that fami- before coming to visit the prepare and plan before com- and provide this space and tism and sensory processing lies will be able to better pre- ing. The sensory map highlights time for families. I am looking disorders. exhibits and zoo grounds.” pare for their visit by reading strong smells and quiet spac- forward to learning from our “I generally think the easi- through the social narrative,” es. A 20-page social narrative visitors and using their sug- est way to understand anyone is observed Petermeier. “They can – Noah Petermeier, lists which types of animals live gestions to make the program to recognize a person for who look at the photos, read the in each building or area in the more successful.” they are and not only by a dis- Como Zoo & Conservatory text, understand expectations, zoo, expectations, and rules to So far, the program is ability label,” he pointed out. and ease some uncertainties follow in each area, and sen- doing what organizers set out The Autism Society of that their family might have be- Schubert Club. sory information that might be to accomplish. As one visitor Minnesota (AuSM) has also fore coming to visit the exhibits “We’ve worked with Shore- important before entering. commented, “We have hesi- worked with other organiza- view Library and many Dakota and zoo grounds.” tions to provide sensory-friend- Families can print out and tated to come to Como in county libraries recently to cre- modify a visual schedule re- the past. We are so excited ly events, including Stages ate more sensory-friendly pro- Excited about the new program Theater in Hopkins and the source for those who appreci- that you are offering this pro- grams and options. We’ve even ate having a pre-planned visual Como’s education department gram.”

others said walking in and see- The contract also calls percentage of winter brunch toward additional capital im- Spring Café ing a full bar didn’t provide a for the new operator make revenues are to be dedicated provements. Continued from page 1 family-friendly atmosphere. $20,000 in improvements. The full bar is expected to go That compares to $294,000 provide recreational equipment away, with wine, beer, and a put in by Como Dockside, rental, room rental and com- few selected premade cocktails largely on the interior of the munity access to rooms, and offered. pavilion, which needed a new catering service with facilities The new restaurant isn’t kitchen. It also included a new rental. Services such as equip- expected to have table service. dock. ment rental could be contracted A menu of burgers, salads and The new contract calls for to a third party. rice bowls has been suggested, the city to get a guarantee of The contract gives the new under the guidance of chef J.D. 10 percent of gross revenues operator exclusive rights to Fratzke. during the peak season. Como outdoor vending and calls for Another change is that Dockside’s contract called for operations of the concessions the city can potentially take nine percent. window. Window hours can- a larger cut of revenue during The contract also has not be used as a substitute for the summer. The contract does thresholds for additional interior hours of operation. maintain the $100,000 min- shared revenue if the restau- The operators can sell souve- imum annual payback to the rant receipts top $1.5 million nirs, with the approval of such city. and $1.75 million per year. A items. O’Reilly will also take over the theater and music book- ings, which traditionally are more than 100 per year. The contract also allows for the sale of alcoholic bev- erages including wine, beer, and liquor. Those must be consumed within the pavilion and promenade and can only be sold when the full kitchen is in operation. Liquor could be sold at ticketed or private events. One point of debate at last year’s community meeting is that while some neighbor- hood residents enjoyed being able to have liquor or cocktails,

Page 4 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com Allianz Field granted major noise and signage variances No limitation on noise during games; a 1872% variance on temporary signage, and 179% variance on permanent signage

By JANE MCCLURE sidered on a case-by-case basis. variance for permanent signage. Allianz Field, the soccer sta- Thao also said the exemp- The zoning code sets the amount dium under construction near tion is what is in place at other of permanent signage by street Snelling and St. Anthony av- stadiums in the area. He also frontage and property size. The enues, has won a blanket noise pledged to continue working code allows 1,776.5 square feet exemption from city noise lim- with neighbors and UPDC on of signage; the request is for its for soccer games. The St. Paul noise issues. 3,187 square feet of signage, for City Council approved the mea- Environmental impact stud- a variance of 1,410.5 square feet. sure Feb. 14. Minnesota United ies of the stadium indicate that the This signage is on the stadium FC is expected to start playing at blanket exemption is a better strat- lower levels as well as on pylons the field in 2019. egy for handling noise, said Thao. and in the plaza planned at Snel- The noise exemption—or Outgoing Ward Four Coun- ling and St. Anthony avenues. sound variance—is one of two cil Member Russ Stark, who lives One concern the board had measures approved in February north of the stadium, said the about so much permanent sig- for the stadium. The St. Paul city is limited by a development nage is whether it would affect Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) agreement previously adopted the longer-term development of Feb. 26 approved variances for on the stadium. “To say you can the site. While there are parking permanent and temporary sig- hold soccer games but you have lots shown west of the stadium, to quiet the fans down somehow plans call for those sites to be de- nage at the stadium site. The BZA Major sign variances are now approved for Allianz Field. (Photo by James doesn’t make a lot of sense.” veloped in the future. BXA mem- laid over a request in January to Burger) separate permanent and tempo- As for the signs, the BZA bers and city staff had questioned rary signage, and to have ques- approved two of the most sig- whether the stadium would lose tions answered. lieves it is a reasonable limitation Mangan and Jeff Schaller heck- nificant variances seen recently signage or if yet more variances The noise exemption has to impose after 10pm as well, led the council before the layover at City Hall. Zoning regulations would be sought in the future. been debated for several weeks instead of the current ordinance vote. After the meeting, Schaller allow for 250 feet of temporary But it sounds like at least one in neighborhoods around the limitation of 55 decibels after said that if the soccer team fails, signage. Team contractors led more variance is on the way. Bill stadium and at City Hall. A pub- 10pm. UPDC also recommend- he foresees neighbors getting by Mortenson Construction in- McGuire, the lead team owner, lic hearing was held in January. ed that the ordinance exemption blasted with loud rock concerts. stalled 4,167 square feet of sig- has been discussing the possibility Ward One Council Member Dai or variance be put in effect on a “The city has totally ignored nage without the needed sign of dynamic signage at the proper- Thao laid the matter over Feb. 7, conditional or trial basis, for the our neighborhood,” he said. permits. They also want to install ty. Dynamic signage is lit, chang- so he could review a recommen- first five home games of the 2019 “We are literally in the shad- and additional 763 square feet of ing signage. An example is on Xcel dation from Union Park District season. After an opportunity for ow of the stadium, and we deserve signage, for a variance of 4,680 Energy Center in downtown St. Council (UPDC). review of the noise level gener- consideration,” said Mangan. square feet. Paul. Smaller examples are at Hol- The district council asked ated, it could be granted for the Snelling Park is the neighborhood Most of the temporary signs iday Station stores. that the exemption be rejected remainder of that season. south of Concordia Ave., between promote the Minnesota United The city has regulations on and that the city council set a Neighbors south of the sta- Snelling Ave. and Pascal St. FC and the contractors. Some that type of signage, so it’s like- maximum noise level of 65 deci- dium, in the Snelling-Hamline But Thao, who represents signage promotes the businesses ly that before any dynamic sig- bels allowed during the playing neighborhood, attended the Feb. part of the affected area, said the remaining at Midway Center. The nage is added at Allianz Field, a and exhibition of any game or 7 meeting to voice concerns. exemption is a better way to reg- temporary signs will come down zoning code text amendment is league event at the stadium. That They said they hadn’t gotten no- ulate noise. He said it doesn’t in- once the stadium and permanent needed. Those go through the is consistent with the allowable tice of the January public hear- clude concerts and fireworks, and signs are completed. Planning Commission and then daytime noise level. UPDC be- ing. Snelling Park residents Tim that such events would be con- The BZA also approved a to City Hall. Factory building on Wabash Ave. to be converted to apartments By JANE MCCLURE said Rich Wessling, project archi- Both business groups note Preserve industrial land or let tect from UrbanWorks Architecture. that the property has been un- a mostly underutilized building sit But he and Blaiser said it makes derused for many years and that vacant? Those were the choices for more sense to gut and rehabilitate other developers have considered the St. Paul Planning Commission. the building, than to tear it down ideas without bringing anything After much debate in February, the and build new on the site. They see to fruition. John Young, a Mid- commission agreed Feb. 23 to a the building as being affordable for way Chamber Board Member plan to convert a century-old West young families and workers who and industrial real estate broker, Midway meat packing plant into want easy access to light rail, bus said the site has been looked at a 64-unit apartment complex. The service, and area amenities. and rejected by many would-be commission approved a condition- The building is in very poor industrial developers. “It was al use permit for Superior LLC’s condition, said Blaiser. But it ap- awful years ago,” he said, noting project at 2103 Wabash Ave. That peals to the developers because of that the property has gone un- decision is final barring an appeal its location in West Midway, where sold during several successful real to the St. Paul City Council. several other old industrial and estate cycles. “I’m usually the one who says, You can see from this satellite image the complexity of the building by all the warehouse properties have been re- The Chamber doesn’t take the preserve industrial land,” said Dan- site line changes in the roof. The oldest part of the structure dates from 1886. purposed for residential, commer- notion of losing industrial land iel Edgerton, chair of the Planning It was added onto in 1911, 1928 and 1947, so it has different floor levels and cial and institutional uses. lightly, Young said. But a residen- Commission Zoning Committee. roof heights. Sections range from one to three stories in height. (Web image) The property is in an area that tial redevelopment there may be But he was struck by the Port and has had different types of industrial the best fit for the property. “We Midway Chamber support of the state and federal historic tax credits June, before changes are made to zoning over the years. Property to want places where our employees residential reuse. to help pay for redevelopment. federal historic tax credits needed the north was rezoned for industri- can live.” “This is really a challenging Almost two hours of debate at for the project. al-transitional use in 2011 as part of The developers took the un- site,” Edgerton said. “It’s been un- the Planning Commission and its The conditional permit ap- Central Corridor (now Green Line) usual step of filing three applica- derutilized for about 40 years. It Zoning Committee Feb. 15 revealed proved Feb. 23 is to allow residen- land use and zoning studies. tions, with the idea of getting at seems like a choice of repurposing the complexity of redeveloping the tial use in an industrial area. It al- Beyond the zoning issues are least one approved. The one ap- the property for housing or letting property. It is a 1.6-acre industrially lows more than six dwelling units practical considerations for residen- proved leaves the industrial zon- it sit vacant.” zoned property that is one block on an industrially zoned proper- tial reuse. One is that the building ing in place, but grants conditions The old Superior Meat Packing south of Green Line light rail and ty. Plans call for 39 dwelling units occupies its block. It is in an area for largely residential reuse. The Company building has been most- one block west of Cleveland Ave. on the first floor. Typically, when with no sidewalks. Streets carry commission laid over a request to ly vacant since 1979. Its first floor in The building fills its block, which is residential uses are allowed in an large amounts of truck traffic. Those rezone the suite to industrial tran- recent years has housed uses includ- bounded by Wabash, Montgomery industrial area, those are on upper were seen by city staff and some sitional and rejected a variable re- ing pet boarding, guitar repair and Ave., Myrtle St. and a parking lot floors. commissioners as impediments to quest that tied first-floor industrial industrial tire sales and service. The used by Rihm Kenworth. The permit also allows 90 per- residential reuse. One idea suggest- use to rezoning to industrial transi- oldest part of the structure dates The parking lot was recently cent of the first floor to have resi- ed is to vacate the adjacent portion tional use. from 1886. It was added onto in purchased by American Engineer- dential use. Typically, 80 percent of of Montgomery and create more of City staff had recommend- 1911, 1928 and 1947, so it has dif- ing Testing, which plans a five-story the first floor would be for non-res- a walking, biking and parking area. ed against all three applications ferent floor levels and roof heights. building there. Rihm Kenworth is idential uses. Another point of debate is for a variety of reasons, including Sections range from one to three in the process of relocating out of Blaiser said different ideas were a city and St. Paul Port Authority inconsistency with the compre- stories in height. the Midway after being there nearly considered for the property, includ- policy to preserve existing industri- hensive plan and impacts on area Many more steps must be 70 years. ing industrial or commercial reuse. al property, as outlined in the West development. Much of the Zon- taken between now and June, when “Our goal is to save and reuse But the building’s configuration Midway Industrial Area Plan. But ing Committee debate Feb. 15 work is to start at the site. The devel- a historic structure,” said develop- makes 100 percent residential use the St. Paul Port Authority and Mid- was technical and procedural, as opers need to seek historic designa- er Clint Blaiser, who represented most feasible. “It has about 30 roofs way Chamber of Commerce sup- all eight Planning Commission tion for the property, and a possi- HGB and PAK Properties before the and about as many elevations in- port the Superior LLC project, as members present want to see the ble spot on the National Register of Zoning Committee. The developers side,” Blaiser said. does the St. Anthony Park Commu- building repurposed. Sorting that Historic Places. That would provide are trying to get work underway by “It’s basically a historic shell,” nity Council. out took time. www.MonitorSaintPaul.com • Monitor • March 2018 Page 5 • Global Minnesota, with support ing Minneapolis South, the cham- from the World Affairs Council pion of the Minneapolis City Con- and the Foreign Policy Association, ference, 80-74 in a thrilling come- sponsored the annual Academ- back victory at Como on Feb. 24. ic WorldQuest competition at the The annual Twin Cities Cham- University of Minnesota on Feb. 7. pionship Game is always an intense Two Como teams of four students game with city pride on the line. each participated. For the second The Cougars have won all four of consecutive year, both Como teams Academic WorldQuest, NAAPID, History Day and Cougars to State! their Twin Cities games to keep placed in the top 10 out of 40 bragging rights in St. Paul. The Cou- teams from across the state. gars were practicing for the Section The team of seniors with 4AAA Play-Offs in early March as Dominic Wolters, Jackson Kerr, Ga- the Monitor went to press. briel Reynolds and Stephen Boler finished in 4th place. The team of • For the second consecutive sea- juniors with Celia Olson, Nora El- son, the Como Boys Swimming lingsen, Isaac Harker and Henry team will send a relay team to the Hansen finished 8th. State Meet. Seniors Cole Napierala, The quiz bowl format featured Jared Czech and Noah Frese, with questions from eleven global af- junior Josef Miller, placed third in fairs and foreign policy topics in- 400 Freestyle Relay at the Section cluding Cybersecurity, India’s Bid 4A Meet on Feb. 23 to claim the for Global Leadership, Association final state qualifying position. Ear- of Southeast Asian Nations, NAFTA lier in the evening, the same swim- and Combatting Climate Change. mers finished fourth in the 200 The event was emceed by KARE 11 Medley Relay, narrowly missing veteran news reporter Karla Hult. state, but setting a school record of 1:46 in the process. • National African American Par- Josef Miller placed second in ent Involvement Day (NAAPID) the section for the 100 Freestyle as was celebrated at Como on Feb. well, so he will swim in that event 12, highlighted by a program for at state along with the relay. State students, parents, and communi- was scheduled at the U of M Aquat- ty members in the auditorium led ic Center Mar. 1-3, after the Monitor by Como’s Pan-African Student deadline. Union. Spoken word performances, poetry readings, music from the or- • Como senior Drew Barnard chestra and choir, along with guest qualified for the State Wrestling speakers and recognition of parents Meet by placing second in the in attendance made for an impact- Section 4AA Meet in the 145- Dominic Wolters, Jackson Kerr, Gabriel Reynolds and Stephen Boler (from L to R) placed 4th out of 40 teams in ful event. pound division. Trailing late in the state at the Global Minnesota Academic WorldQuest event at the U of M. (Photo courtesy of Global Minnesota) Student performers included the match that would decide who Yasin Abdullahi, Robert Adams, qualified for state and who would Malique Mccoy, Madyson Sklar, have their season ended, Barnard Najma Ali, Hawi Ali, Farhiya Mo- harsh, cold conditions and came • History Day at Como featured the Thor for the Kent State Massacre. scored a takedown in the final sec- hamed, Sucdi Jama, Bernadette back to Como with great stories of research and final products of 11th William Farley, Kao Nou Lee and onds to win the match. A joyous Kargbo, Asha Hassan and Lumin adventure. grade U.S. History students. Stu- Lee Thao for the Secret War in Laos. celebration followed as a dream Johnson. dents advancing to St. Paul region- Individual Website—Maria was realized after years of hard • The Como Culinary Club was al competition on Mar. 17 include Chiaramonti for computer scientist work and commitment. Barnard • 47 cadets from the Marine JROTC cooking with top chefs in the “Taste the following students from their Alan Turing. was excited to represent Como on program at Como continued a tra- of the NFL” event at the St. Paul Riv- respective categories: Research Paper—Cadence Par- the big stage at the Xcel Energy dition of outdoor winter training erCentre during Super Bowl week- Group Exhibit—Asia Faulk, amore for the Treaty of Mendota, Center on Mar. 1. activities over two days in early end. Each Como student was paired DaVonna Jones and Isabelle Hoppe Hundaol Deressa for the Battle of February at Camp Shamineau in with an executive chef from one of for the Bombings of Hiroshima Adwa, and Jenny Vue for The Secret • The Como Park Booster Club’ Motley, Minnesota. The Winter the NFL cities, helping prepare and and Nagasaki. Naw Sei, Roa Lay War in Laos. annual fundraiser at the Urban Cadet Leadership Camp included serve the specialty foods represen- and Ray Boe for the Chinese Exclu- Growler will take place on Sun., evaluations in the standards of ice tative from the respective teams’ re- sion Act. Caitlin Jones and Nyah • For the fourth consecutive sea- Mar. 11 from 4-8pm. The annual, wall climbing, rock wall climbing, gion. Courtney Gbolo, who teaches Davis for the Integration of College son, the Como Girls Basketball festive get-together helps support hiking, horseback riding, and even Family and Consumer Science and Basketball. Aye Win and Eh Soh for team won the St. Paul City Confer- extra-curricular academic, athlet- broomball. Cadets meeting or ex- leads the culinary club, said compli- the Emancipation Proclamation. ence Championship. The Cougars ic, and club activities for Como ceeding standards in those or any ments about Como students were Individual Exhibit—Kayla Sel- conference record during the last students. For those interested in of the other five activities earned abundant. Chefs and event orga- bitschka for Hela Cells, and Emma four years now stands at 47-1, with tickets, more information, or vol- a Distinguished Military Training nizers were impressed by the skill, Mueller for The Lavender Scare. a 40-game winning streak. Como unteering, contact Ann Commers Award (DMT). All cadets performed strong work ethic and cooperative Group Website—David capped off its regular season with of the Como Park Booster Club exceptionally well despite the attitude of Como’s club members. Amobi, Trinh Nguyen and Pany another Twin Cities Title by defeat- at [email protected].

The Como Gymnasium was the site of the girls’ basketball Twin Cities Title Game on Saturday, Feb. 24. The Cougars defeated Minneapolis South to win their fourth consecutive Twin Cities Championship. (Photo by Eric Erickson)

Page 6 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com A thing of beauty is a joy forever. Even a 76-year old canoe. By STEPHANIE FOX Marc Hosmer, Urban Boatbuilder’s For Kevin Buzicky, getting Executive Director shows off the res- his old canoe restored to its pre- toration of Kevin Buzicky’s restored vious glory was homage to his 1935 Thompson-Hiawatha canoe. dad, Ed Buzicky who died, at age (Photo by Stephanie Fox) 99, in 2016. “Dad instilled a love of the water and the outdoors in me from a young age,” he said. “I River. For some of the kids, it have fond memories of my dad will be their first real trip outside and my brother and I going to our of the cities. Most of them can’t lake cabin at Brigg’s Lake, near swim, but before they take to the St. Cloud. We’d catch a bunch water, they’ll get some basic in- of crappies and put them in the struction on swimming and, of freezer, and the next weekend, course, will wear life jackets. The we’d smoke them.” kid builds boats, and then they The canoe, a 1935 Thomp- get to put it on the water, learning son-Hiawatha canoe, almost to launch and paddle them. didn’t stay in the family, Buzicky “The Boundary Waters is like said. “Dad was going to sell it to an out-of-body experience for a neighbor for $200, and I asked some,” said Bob Anderson, an- him, why not sell it to me. It was other Urban Boatbuilder’s volun- usable but was aqua blue, and he teer. “The program broadens their had painted the outside so many perspective. You see the transfor- times that the canvas ended up mation, and it’s not just the kids having to be removed and re- who are affected. At graduation, placed.” He considered taking the canoe. I visited their workshop the parents will tell us how much boat to a commercial, profession- with my stepmother a couple their kids have changed.” al boat builder, who quoted him of times as they restored wood, Buzicky’s red canoe is not $3,500 for the job. But, Buzicky removed the old canvas and the only old canoe that the vol- had a better idea. stretched a new canvas over the unteers have restored. “Many of Ed Buzicky was a young man, boat.” the boats we get are pre-1950s,” only 19-years old, when bought “It took another year for said Homser. “One came from the canoe, hoping to connect to them to finish it, but they put the the early 1900s. But what’s the Minnesota tradition of fish- last coat of red paint on this Jan- unique about this boat is the ing and boating. It cost $64 when uary, a week before the opening family history. It’s nice to be able he purchased it in 1936, about of the Minneapolis Boat Show, to make an emotional connec- $1,120 in today’s money and his where it was on display.” tion and have memories come son ended up spending about Buzicky said he’d been fol- back to life.” that much to have it restored. But, lowing and donating to the orga- “My dad courted my mother that money also went to a good nization for a number of years. “I in the canoe around Lake Pha- cause. It was part of the tribute. am extremely thankful to the staff len, Buzicky said. “He painted Buzicky called Urban Boat- for doing such a great job on the the outside many times until the builders, 2288 University Ave. W., Hiawatha Canoe to honor my fa- paint was cracked from age. He an organization that helps trou- ther,” he said. The canoe, circa 1941, on top of Ed Buzicky’s car. (Photo submitted) varnished the inside and always bled kids in St. Paul. “At Urban Boatbuilders, proj- kept it indoors or covered.” Volunteers, working a ects engage youth through hands- “My dad’s canoe is heavier few hours a week, restored the on experiences. It empowers them 16 through 19, can apply for an they’ll need for jobs, including the than modern canoes,” he con- canoe, the money going to help to be successful in school, work apprentice program where they soft skills like how to show up on tinued. “The 1935 model is 17 fund courses that include an af- and life,” said Marc Hosmer, the learn boat building and in doing time and how to interact at work,” ft. long and weighs 75 lbs. These ter-school work experience pro- executive director of the program. so, learn to use math, engineer- Hosmer said. day they have lightweight 25 lbs. gram and an apprentice program. The schools select the younger ing, and technical skills. “When some of these (School canoes, but they aren’t as beau- “It was a year before they kids for the School Partnership “They also learn social and Partnership) kids come into the tiful.” agreed to do it,” he said. “In Jan- Program, he said, finding kids for emotional skills like communi- program,” said volunteer Al Ray- Buzicky’s canoe remains at uary of 2017, the volunteers came whom traditional classrooms are cation, collaboration, and prob- mond, “they couldn’t look you Urban Boatbuilders for now, but to my garage and picked up the not a good fit. Older kids, aged lem-solving. They learn skills in the eye. At the end, six months he has plans for it. Eventually, it later, they’re giving speeches, will grace his place in Bayfield, talking about college, or starting Wisconsin, where he spends their own business.” weekends. But, before it gets Apprentices often come into displayed in that home’s cathe- the program facing barriers to em- dral ceiling, it will be part of a ployment, said Hosmer. Boat Festival at the end of May at Apprentices often come into Lake Phalen, where newly grad- the program, facing barriers to uated apprentices will launch it. employment, said Hosmer. Some He hopes, he said, to be one of have been involved with the jus- those paddling the canoe across tice system. “We look for youth the water. who are interested in hands-on Buzicky starts to choke up at skills. What they learn can trans- the memories brought back by late into jobs in other fields, tech- new newly restored canoe and nical jobs, and jobs in the trades.” thought of his dad courting his Apprentices also get a chance mother at Phalen. “The canoe to try out the boats they build will be there, back to where my on field trips to places like the dad enjoyed it. It will be a great Boundary Waters or the St. Croix tribute.”

One of the after-school groups learning life skills and boat building with adult instructor Christopher Dunham. (Top l to r) Chua Vang, Eleanor O’Doubhlain, Cesar Gomez, Roger Xiong. (Bottom l to r) Thao Vang, Maya Rivera. (Photo by Stephanie Fox) www.MonitorSaintPaul.com • Monitor • March 2018 Page 7 Make their summer unforgettable with camp experiences Check out Free Forest School, Blackhawks of St. Paul, Camp Como, Autism Society of Minnesota, Friends School and more By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN SPIRIT TAE KWON DO Give your kids childhood Fun, exciting camps that com- experiences they’ll never forget. bine physical fitness and edu- This summer, take part in a free cation are offered throughout Forest School—unplug, step back the summer for school-age and let their imaginations take kids. Register early for dis- the lead. Participate in an out- counts. door adventure camp and spark a 651-428-6172 love for biking, climbing, and ca- www.istkd.com noeing that will give them skills to battle stress as they age. Let ST. PAUL ACADEMY them soar through the air while learning circus arts, or focus on Make your own games and de- their artistic side. Give them card- sign circuits. Paint with pizzazz. board to build with, balls to kick Search out connections between around, and Legos to construct visual art and creative writing, robots. Let them pretend to live and explore the life of a story in 100 years ago. Go for the gold in journalism. Debate, play chess, Animal Olympics at the zoo. learn about mathematical mod- That’s just the start of the eling and forecasting, make mov- youth camp options available ies or delve into creative science in the Twin Cities area. Browse options. Options at SPA cover a below for more information on wide range of academic, arts, and some of the camps offered lo- enrichment activities for grades cally. 2-12. Cost: $195-$385 651-698-2451 IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD www.spa.edu AUTISM SOCIETY OF MINNESOTA A variety of athletic, academic and enrichment programs are offered at Minnehaha Academy. (Photo provided) ST. PAUL BALLET Experience outdoor activities in- Summer is a great time to try cluding swimming in an outdoor Cost: $135-$155 forest-school-twin- inal member of Riverdance. dance. Programs include work- pool, horseback riding, use of a 651-487-8272 cities-minnesota 612-722-7000 shops and camps for ages 3 ropes course and climbing tower, www.tinyurl.com/p3u4lqv www.osheairishdance.com and up, weekly drop-in class- group games, hiking, sensory GIBBS MUSEUM OF PIONEER es for teens and adults, and a crafts, and gross motor activities FRIENDS SCHOOL AND DAKOTA LIFE CAMPS MINNESOTA WALDORF SCHOOL new “mommy and me” baby class. led by a registered occupational OF MINNESOTA Travel back in time and learn Join the Minnesota Waldorf Cost: $8.50-$20 therapist, music groups led by a Biking camps, film school, LEGO about life in the 1800s. Explore School for good, old-fashioned 651-690-1588 board-certified music therapist, engineering, Harry Potter, the- seasonal Dakota activities includ- summer fun June 12 to Aug. 18. www.spballet.org boating, and sports during a Wa- atre and much more offered at ing the maple sugar camp, wild Outdoor games, natural crafts, hode Day Camp in Eagan where the Friends School for ages 4-14. rice village, life in the tipi, hunt- water play, gardening, fairy camp, campers arrive each morning Weekdays, half- and full-day with ing games, methods of travel, and much more, all on their ST. PAUL URBAN TENNIS and leave each afternoon. Two extended day options available. language, and song. Or enroll in beautiful 8-acre campus. 70 East Located at 30+ sites, with sev- residential camps where campers Cost: $130 to $350 Gibbs Girl or Digging history ses- County Road B, St. Paul. For eral locations in the Mid- stay several days and nights are 651-621-8941 sions. Three-day, half-day camps. children ages 3.5 to (rising) 6th way-Como neighborhoods, also offered in northern Minne- www.fsmn.org One-day Pioneer PeeWees camps grade. St. Paul Urban Tennis offers sota at several locations. AuSM offered for ages 4-5. Cost: $150-$275 a summer program for all age camps are tailored for youth and FOREST SCHOOL Cost: $19-$99 651-487-6700 x202 groups and skill levels. Tennis adults with autism. AuSM camps mnwaldorf.org/summercamp lessons combine high-qual- Free Forest School of the Twin 651-646-8629 are available for individuals ages ity instruction with life skills Cities is a free group, open to www.rchs.com 6 and up who are AuSM mem- RAPTOR CENTER learning. Sampler Camps offer young children and their parents bers. a condensed, 4-day version of or caregivers. This is a welcom- HAMLINE YOUNG WRITERS Summer sessions for ages 6-15 Cost: $725-$1,870 the lesson program. Scholar- ing and non-judgmental group High school students ages 15-18 are run by the University of Min- ausm.org/camp/ausm-summer- ships are available. where parents and caregiv- can explore the craft, prepare for nesota’s Rec & Wellness Camps, camps.html 612-222-2879 ers can practice giving children college, and connect with other from June 11 to Aug. 10. 651-647-1083 stpaulurbantennis.org/2011- space and autonomy to explore young writers in the Twin Cities Cost: $299 www.raptor.umn.edu summer-program.php BLACKHAWKS OF ST. PAUL and create in nature. Free Forest while working closely with Ham- School meets every day of the line Creative Writing faculty and Blackhawks offer several exciting week throughout the year at wil- published authors. half- and full-day soccer camps derness areas around the metro. Cost: $400 for players ages 5-18 that encom- Share a snack, take a hike, play in 651-523-2476 pass a wide variety of activities the woods, and have circle time. www.hamline.edu/gls/youngwrit- and skills. Specialty camps focus Parents get a chance to unplug ers on specific skills such as ball con- and step back… Kids and their trol, shooting, and goalkeeping. imaginations take the lead. IRISH DANCE Cost: $85-$195 Cost: Free Professional Irish Dance training 651-894-3527 www.freeforestschool.org/free- by director Cormac O’Se, an orig- blackhawksoccer.org/ CAMP COMO Spend some time “Monkeying SAINT PAUL URBAN TENNIS Around” with your primate pals, go for the gold in “Animal Olym- Tennis Lessons and pics,” take an “African Adven- ture” without leaving Como, or Sampler Camps try on the hat of a zookeeper or gardener in “Behind-the-Scenes!”. for Kids and Teens, Como’s camps focus on devel- USTA Jr. Team Tennis, oping children’s appreciation for the natural world through play Adult Programs and exploration, behind-the- scenes experiences, interactions June 18 - August 3 • 26 St. Paul sites with zookeepers and gardeners, and up-close encounters with Life skills built into tennis lessons plant and animal ambassadors 2 days/week and 4 days/week options Five-day, half-day or full-day sessions for preschool to grade www.urbantennis.org / 651-222-2879 eight. Extended care is available. Affordable: Scholarships Available

Page 8 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com Make their summer unforgettable with camp experiences Check out Free Forest School, Blackhawks of St. Paul, Camp Como, Autism Society of Minnesota, Friends School and more YMCA offered in partnership with local community education programs. Explore the variety of Y Summer Sessions, length, and price, are Programs at over 60 metro-area varied per location and type of locations. Programs include flexi- camp for ages 4-14. ble three-, four-, and five-day op- engineeringforkids.com tions. There’s something fun for everyone from preschool through grade nine. FARM TO TABLE Cost: $80-$350 Make butter, ice cream, and www.ymcatwincities.org/child_ bread while learning about sci- care__preschool/summer_pro- ence, agriculture and history at grams the Bruentrup Heritage Farm in Maplewood. Students play old- time games like townball and do arts and crafts. Three four-day IN THE TWIN CITIES sessions offered in July and Aug. Cost: $150 ADVENTURES IN CARDBOARD 651-748-8645 www.maplewoodhistoricalso- Be initiated into an ancient and ciety.org/pdfs/2017-Summer- esteemed House of The Realm, Camp.pdf jump into live-action adventure gaming, build your own arms and armor, and more during FIDDLE PAL CAMP these five-day, full-day sessions Fiddle Pal Camp Minnesota is for ages 6-17. Buses available four days to discover, learn and from Powderhorn Park and some play for children, adults, and camps held at Minnehaha Park. families at three locations. Cost: $369 Cost: $395-$495 julianmcfaul.com There are numerous computer and technology summer classes available at Minnehaha Academy. (Photo provided) americanfiddlemethod.com/fid- 612-532-6764 dle-pal-camps/minnesota week immersed in animal learn- Cost: $155-$285 CONCORDIA ALEXANDER RAMSEY HOUSE FOCCI MN CENTER FOR GLASS ing and fun. NEW this year: 612-729-5151 LANGUAGE VILLAGES Solve mysteries of the past in Campers will spend their time www.articulture.org From fusing to casting to glass this three-day History Detec- exclusively in the shelters. Experience cultural and language blowing, ages 9-18 are intro- tive Camp for ages 10-13. Or, Cost: $120-$300 CAMP SUNRISE immersion; 15 languages to duced to the mesmerizing medi- choose from. Resident camp for young ladies ages 9-12 can step 763-489-2220 Camp and canoe while learning um of glass through immersive ages 6-18 and family camps. back in time to a unique Finish- www.animalhumanesociety.org/ leadership and teamwork skills half-day, five-day experiences. Cost: $960-$4,510 ing School for Young Ladies day camps in a seven-day resident camp for Cost: $325-$425 800-222-4750 camp. youths age 13-18 who live with- 612-623-3624 www.concordialanguagevillages. Cost: $220 ARTICULTURE in the city limits of Minneapolis tinyurl.com/foci2016 org 612-341-7555 A variety of art disciplines and or St. Paul. Held on the St. Croix FORT SNELLING www.mnhs.org/summercamps mediums with themes like mir- River in Rush City and organized DODGE NATURE CENTER ror images, urban forest, theater, by YouthCARE. Experience the life of Laura In- ANIMAL HUMANE SOCIETY art car, or paper and book arts of- Cost: free Explore prairies, wetlands and galls Wilder or the engineers and Unleashed summer campers en- fered for ages 4-18. Five-day, half- 612-338-1233 woodland trails during full- and grenadiers who called Fort Snel- tering grades 3-10 spend a full and full-day sessions available. www.youthcaremn.org half-day, four-day camps offered ling home. Experience outdoor for students entering 1-8 grades. skills and life in the early 1800s. CIRCUS JUVENTAS Shorter sessions available for Camps range from one to four ages 3-6. Explore international circus arts days. Cost: $55-$325 at Circus Juventas. Five-day, full- $75-$275 651-455-4531 day sessions offered for ages 612-341-7555 www.dodgenaturecenter.org 6-15. Or make your own camp www.mnhs.org/summercamps with Circus Sampler Days. ENGINEERING FOR KIDS Cost: $85-$405 GERMAN LANGUAGE 651-699-8229 Day camps exploring science, AND CULTURE CAMPS technology and engineering are www.circusjuventas.org Speak, hear, sing, and create in German while exploring subjects ranging from history and art to science and music during five- day, half-, full- and extended-day sessions for grades K-3 at the Germanic American Institute. Cost: $130-$150 651-222-2979 gai-mn.org HEARTFELT Summer camps allow time for more in-depth projects, such as Wild & Wooly, Fairies, Gnomes, Knights, Critters, and Classic Crafts, for kindergarten and up. Cost: $120-$165 heartfeltonline.com/sum- mer-camps JUGHEADS JUGGLING CAMP Half-day, five-day sessions and single day sessions for begin- ners through experts ages 8-18 enhance hand-eye coordination, boost concentration and build self-confidence. Cost: $30-$110 612-229-3348 jugheads.com Continued on page 10

www.MonitorSaintPaul.com • Monitor • March 2018 Page 9 Summer Camp experiences Continued from page 9 KID YOGA Yoga infused throughout the day via story, dance and games for campers age 5-12. Located on the Midtown Greenway = daily field adventures. Cost: $75-$355 612-202-5164 kidyogamn.com

LEONARDO’S BASEMENT Create something great at Friends School. (Photo provided) Girls and boys ages 6 to 17 can design and build their creative AuSM camps are tailored for youth & adults with autism. (Photo provided) ideas, mixing art, science, and WHITE BEAR EDITOR’S NOTE: This is not a technology during partial-day, full-day, five-day sessions. happening at the new Discov- CENTER FOR THE ARTS comprehensive list of every camp weekday camps. There are more in the Twin Cities. If you would than 120 classes available over Cost: $200 ery Center in Uptown every Painting, drawing, clay, theatre, 612-604-5330 week of the summer, as well like to considered for inclusion ten weeks. writing, glass and much more for in next year’s guide, please send Cost: $185-$370, scholarships loppet.org as at various schools and ed- ages 6-14. ucational partners around the us detailed information on the available Cost: $23-$97 camp. 612-824-4394 MINNEHAHA ACADEMY Twin Cities, Snapology has 651-407-0597 www.leonardosbasement.org A variety of athletic, academic got you covered for kiddos as www.WhiteBearArts.org and enrichment programs are young as 3 and as old as 14. LITTLE FOLK SUMMER CAMP offered, including woodcarv- Choose Robotics, Coding, Sci- ence, Technology, Drones, Pre- Ages 4-8 can participate in a ing, viola and cello, combat ro- K, Engineering, Architecture nourishing, creative and relaxing bots, puddlestompers, fencing, and more. “backyard” summer experience. movie making, sewing, paint- Cost: $150 The morning starts with free ing, rocket science, drumming, www.snapology.com/locations/ play/maker time with loose parts, and more. Half- and full-day, minneapolis a mud and wood chip kitchen, one- to three-week weekday sessions. Camp Minnehaha, supervised use of basic tools, STEPPING STONE THEATER costumes and art projects. Take a full day camp for pre-k to picnic lunches to nearby Brack- grade 8, includes daily devo- Learn about devised theater, et Park or trails along the Missis- tions, games, indoor and out- music, and other performance sippi, where there is after-lunch door activities, daily swimming art forms during these one- to reading time on blankets and in lessons and a weekly off-cam- two-week, half- and full-day hammocks. Afternoons are spent pus activity. sessions for those preK to grade at Brackett Park, playing ball, Cost: $40-$500 12. Two theater classes offered climbing trees, or playing at the 612-728-7745, ext. 1 in collaboration with the Sci- playground or wading pool. Four www.minnehahaacademy.net ence Museum and Minnesota weekly sessions offered. Zoo. Cost: $180/week MILL CITY MUSEUM Cost: $75-$425 spark.adobe.com/page/ffMuf- Play music, get creative, bake steppingstonetheatre.org 5AOypFq3 bread and construct books while exploring the rich culture along TEXTILE CENTER CAMPS LOFT LITERARY CENTER the Minneapolis riverfront dis- Sew, knit, felt, dye and more. There’s something for everyone— trict. Campers aged 9-11 will ex- Take home completed fiber items from the youngster just learning plore a new experience each day from three- and five-day, half-, to put pen to paper to the sea- at four arts centers. full- and extended-day sessions soned high school senior with Cost: $225-$250 for ages 6-16. a novel already under her belt. 612-341-7555 Cost: $87-$370 Sessions run in week-long blocks www.mnhs.org/summercamps 612-436-0464 July and August, full and half-day textilecentermn.org options available for ages 6-17. NORTHERN CLAY CENTER Cost: $262-$525 Work with sculpture, tiles, or TRAPEZE CENTER CIRCUS CAMP 612-215-2575 wheel-thrown pottery in half or Students ages 8-17 enrolled in www.loft.org/classes/about_ full-day sessions for ages 6 and up. the weeklong, half-day camps youth_classes_6-17 Cost: $165-$315 will experience a variety of circus Ages 4-8 can participate in a nourishing, creative and relaxing “backyard” 612-339-8007 disciplines (including Trampo- summer experience with Little Folk Summer Camp. (Photo provided) LOPPET ADVENTURE CAMPS www.northernclaycenter.org line, Static Trapeze, Acrobatics, Roller ski, mountain bike, canoe Circus Bike, and of course Flying and more during adventure SNAPOLOGY Trapeze). camps for ages 9-13 at Theo- Snapology camps provide Cost: $275 dore Wirth Park in Minneapolis. a perfect mixture of STEAM 651-262-9477 Equipment provided during the learning and fun. With camps twincitiestrapeze.com

Page 10 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com In Our Community

Send us your news! When you submit your press release it will be considered for the next print edition of the Monitor. Monitor You can also go to our website, MonitorSaintPaul.com and enter your information in the online Event Calendar. Central Lutheran native and original Riverdancer the McNally Smith Series will Amy Ireland announces Council candidacy Cormac O’Sé. Kickin’ It Irish is display performances by former a modern fusion of show-style students and alumni on Can Can plans Gala Mar. 24 Amy Ireland, 44, has an- Irish dance and live Irish music. Wonderland’s Wee stage. Central Lutheran School’s annual nounced her candidacy to re- The lineup consists of 22 world- The Series will present three CLS Gala fundraiser will be held place former City Council class dancers, and a driving different shows: 4:30-7pm on Sat., Mar. 24 at the President Russ Stark in a spe- dance band. — Singer Songwriters will per- school, 775 Lexington Pkwy. N. cial election this fall. A resident There are also performances form Thur., Mar. 8, 9-11pm. Tick- The event includes food, enter- of the ward for nearly twenty at 7:30-9:30, Sat. and Sun., Mar. ets available at www.facebook. tainment and silent and live auc- years, Ireland has served on nu- 10-11. This family-friendly live com/events/2055811711370389. tions. Attendees offer donations merous city and neighborhood Irish music and dance spectac- — Hip Hop and RNB will take as they see fit. The school asks for committees and is currently on ular features O’Sé. These perfro- the stage on Thur., Mar. 15, RSVPs by Mar. 12 with your name the board of the Hamline-Mid- mances are a modern fusion of 9-11pm. Tickets available at and the number of guests. E-mail way Coalition. show-style Irish dance and live www.facebook/com/event/1478- RSVPs to [email protected] or call “When the city threatened Irish music. The lineup consists 31146025447. 651-645-8649. to close our library, I helped of 20 world-class dancers, includ- — Band Night is scheduled for organize neighbors to keep ing regional and national cham- Thur., Mar. 22, 9-11pm. Tick- it open,” Ireland said. After pions, and an international six- ets can be purchased from Como Men’s Golf that, a group of neighborhood piece band. In addition to O’Sé https://www.facebook.com/ moms formed the Hamline Amy Ireland. (Photo provided) on accordion, the driving dance events/388051918289424. Club invites you Midway Library Association. band includes Aidín Ní Shé, Mid- $5 tickets (must be 21+) will Ireland was there from the be- west Fleadh champion in English be sold on Ticketfly and at the The Como Men’s Golf Club in- ginning and started raising money to improve the library and en- vites all golfers of any ability and Irish song; Todd Menton, door on the day of the show. All hance programming. “The experience showed me that people can multi-instrumentalist and lead proceeds go directly to the per- level to consider joining one of make a difference, and as a city council member I want to empow- the most active clubs in the Twin singer of band Boiled in Lead; formers. er others to do the same,” she said. Brian Miller of acclaimed band Cities. “I want a city that works for everyone, proactively making sure The Club’s Spring Mixer is Bua; Randy Gosa of The Lost that the system is transparent and fairly represents all of us. The Forty; David Ochs on fiddle; and Fit and Strong class set for Fri., Apr. 13, 7pm, at the best solutions come from the bottom-up, not the top-down.” Como Golf Course Clubhouse Seán O’Brien, former Riverdancer Ireland is married with three children and lives in the Ham- and Riverdance musical director. set at Lyngblomsten (1431 Lexington Pkwy.). line-Midway neighborhood. She graduated from Macalester Col- Member dues are $100, and Tickets for all performances Older Adults who would like to lege, and also graduated with honors from the University of Min- are $18 for adults in advance, there is an optional season-long nesota School of Law. Professionally, she worked on civil rights improve their fitness, strength, hole-in-one contest for $5. $22 at the door; seniors $11 at the and mobility are invited to par- issues at the MN Dept. of Human Rights and then as an immigra- door; youth 18 and under free. Membership includes access tion attorney for over a decade. After serving as the Chapter Pres- ticipate in Fit and Strong, an to preferred weekend tee times ident of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, Young evidence-based exercise pro- and registration in the USGA Lawyers Division, she began serving children and families in her Citywide tree sale gram held at 2nd Half with handicap system, allowing golf- faith community and continues to focus on social justice issues. Lyngblomsten (1415 Almond ers to play in Club events as well now underway Ave.) twice a week now through as events sponsored by the USGA June 13. Sessions are held on and MGA. For more information contact ence projects. Make an important The annual tree sale is underway Mondays and Wednesdays, The Club sponsors events [email protected]. contribution science—the data at Friends of the Parks and Trails 10-11:30am, and will include every weekend morning from you submit via these apps will of St. Paul and Ramsey County. strength training, low impact mid-April to October. Members be used by scientists around the The sale offers 15 locally aerobics, flexibility, balance exer- play in events as their time per- Concerts continue world to learn more about the grown, hardy selections of trees, cises, and health education. To mits. An application form and living things around you. shrubs, roses, and vines. Prices register, call 651-632-5330 or additional information are avail- at Hamline Methodist Please dress to be outdoors range from $30-$75; all proceeds email 2ndHalf@lyngblomsten. able at the Club’s website (www. The Hamline Church United and bring a smartphone, tablet, benefit parks and trails in the city org. The fee is $15 for the 14-week mensclubcomo.org), and in Methodist Music Series continues or laptop computer. This work- and county. Go online at shop. class. the Clubhouse once the course this month with two special per- shop is suitable for adults to friendsoftheparks.org/annu- opens. formances. youngsters (children ages 10+ al-tree-sale to place your order. Please contact Bob Schmall “Speaking Like Light” is are welcome with an adult). If you want to truly eat local- Two local groups win at 651-646-0852 if you have fur- planned for Thur., Mar. 8, at Note that there is limited park- ly, the selection includes options ther questions. 7pm. This will be a night of spir- ing in front of the Streetcar Sta- such as two blueberries, a thorn- Watershed awards itual poetry from around the tion. Contact Britt Forsberg, less blackberry, a cherry tree, and The Capital Region Watershed world. This event is not ticketed, [email protected] or 612-626- a grapevine. New this year is co- District, 1410 Energy Park Dr., Six-artist art sale and a free-will offering will be 2690 with any questions. lumnar serviceberry, selected to hosted its annual Recognition collected at the door. Online registration can be fit smaller urban yards. and Awards Ceremony in Janu- scheduled Mar. 24 On Sat., Mar. 24, 7pm, the done at http://bit.ly/2DD8PZ6. You can order for yourself, as ary. Two local organizations re-

Six local artists are hosting a one- Minnesota Boychoir presents a gift, or as a donation to a park. ceived awards during the event. day pop-up sale at the historic “Walk Together Children.” This That final option is especially Central High School received Charles Thompson Memorial is a part art of the Minnesota Easter Egg hunt important when public land is a Watershed Project Award for Hall, 1824 Marshall Ave. on Mar. Boychoir concert series. This planned Mar. 31 losing so many trees—ash and their leadership and dedication 24, 1-8pm. event is also not ticketed, and a otherwise. They’re taking orders to student engagement for a There will be a wide variety free-will offering will be collected There will be a free Easter Egg now through Apr. 20. Pick-up is cleaner Mississippi River. “Cen- of different artworks from ceram- at the door. Hunt and Festival, open to all, on May 5 at the county fairgrounds tral High School’s campus was ics to paintings, prints, collages, Sat., Mar. 31, at 10am, at Trinity in Maplewood. transformed into a beautiful and jewelry, clerical stoles, and em- City Church, 1849 Marshall Ave. inviting environment that cap- broidery. Citizen Science apps The egg hunt will occur indoors tures and cleans 1.4 million gal- Organized by six local art- at 10am, followed by live music, Emerging artists to lons of runoff each year before ists—Liz Carlson, Alex Chinn, workshop set Apr. 14 games, activities, and light perform at Can Can it reaches the Mississippi River.” Paul Damon, Chillon Leach, You too can become a citizen sci- refreshments. The project was born of a part- Dorothy Osterman and Justin entist just by using the phone in Can Can Wonderland, 755 Prior nership between the school, Terlecki—the sale will present se- your pocket. In a free two-hour, Ave. N., will host the McNally Transforming Central Commit- lected works at prices that reflect hands-on workshop, we will dig Celebrate St. Paddy’s Smith Emerging Artist (MSEA) tee, Saint Paul Public Schools, their belief that art should be into what it means to be a citizen Series in March. and CRWD. The project includes both accessible and affordable. scientist. The workshop will be at Celtic Junction MSEA Series is a 3-day music tree trenches, permeable pave- All the artists will be there to held on Sat., Apr. 14 (National Celebrate Saint Paddy’s Day in event showcasing the talent from ment, two rain gardens, a native meet and answer any questions Citizen Science Day) from 2-4pm true Irish style with Kickin’ It the recently closed McNally planting, an underground rock their work may provoke. at the Historic Como Streetcar Irish on Mar. 10-11 at Celtic Junc- Smith College of Music. In De- trench system, and monitoring The historic Charles Thomp­ Station, 1224 Lexington Pkwy. tion Arts Center, 836 Prior Ave. cember of 2017 the school closed wells to connect student learning son Memorial Hall is one of the Several free apps will be ex- N. down due to financial difficulty, to the campus improvements. nation’s social clubs for the deaf. plored, such as “iNaturalist” Performances are planned leaving students uncertain as to The Youth of Urban Boat­ Tours of the building will be and “eBird,” which you can use on Sat., Mar. 10, 3-5pm and Sun., what lies ahead on their musi- builders received the Young available. A portion of all sales to contribute data to citizen sci- Mar. 11, 3-5pm featuring Dublin cal journey. In recognition of all will be dedicated to the building. their dedication and hard work, Continued on page 12 www.MonitorSaintPaul.com • Monitor • March 2018 Page 11 In Our Community to come. and strength; improves balance; Cliff Eberhardt in concert Mar. 10 and reduces the pain and stiff- Continued from page 11 ness of arthritis. Family Concert Exercise Classes—Tuesdays and Thursdays starting Mar. 13 Watershed­ Steward Award for planned Mar. 16 from 1:30-2:30pm at Hamline their dedication to protect and The Schubert Club will present Church United Methodist. Joni improve the Mississippi River. a Family Concert Minnesota O’Connell utilizes her unique The youth of Urban Boatbuilders Percussion Trio at St. Matthew’s Irish sense of humor to create helped maintain and revitalize Episcopal Church, 2136 Carter a welcoming and motivating rain gardens along the Green Line Ave., on Fri., Mar. 16. There will atmosphere to lead another in 2017. They also tested water be a performance at 6pm and 8-week gentle exercise series. quality at Lake McCarrons and again at 7:15pm. Jody’s Documentary Film learned about the effects of runoff Travel on a whirlwind tour Series—Wed., Mar. 28, 1pm at and ways they can help keep our of the musical traditions found Hamline Midway Library, 1558 lakes and rivers clean. around the world. Polka on the Minnehaha Ave. W. This POV marimba of Guatemala, sounds film, titled “Swim Team,” fol- from Brazil, Spanish Flamenco, lows three diverse teen swim- Sholom property a Middle Eastern dance rhythms, mers, all on the autism spec- Ghana’s gourd shekere, and Aus- trum. No one, but no one, is ‘no go’ once again going to tell them what they tralia’s own lagerphone. Return Singer-songwriter Cliff Eberhardt performs a solo concert in the inti- According to Dist. 10, owners of can’t do. No registration is nec- to the US for Jazz and Early Rock mate listening room setting at Ginkgo coffeehouse on Sat., Mar. 10 at the former Sholom Home prop- essary for this last Wednesday and Roll on the drum set. 7:30pm. Tickets are $20 plus tax and are available online at brownpa- erty on Midway Parkway say they of the month film series. So just This concert by the Schubert pertickets.com (with fees) or in person at GINKGO coffeehouse (with- are out of money and uncertain enjoy the documentary, some Club is a general admission event. out fees), 721 N Snelling Ave. about the site’s future. “We’re snacks, and a lively discussion His releases include a variety of styles and span the years 1995- kind of in a free fall right now,” led by Jody Huber after the film. 2012. Ranging from folk/singer-songwriter to jazz, and original music David Grzan told District 10. Let’s Cook and Eat Driver program for an award-winning production of “Taming of the Shrew,” his record- “It’s a bad situation that’s getting Healthy — Wed., Apr. 11, 11am- ings speak to his wide range of talents and broad appeal. worse, and we’re trying to catch offered Mar. 20-21 1pm at Hamline Church United Seattle Post Intelligencer said that Eberhardt was “one of the most our breath.” Methodist. Yeng Moua, Health The 55+ Driver Improvement talented musicians on the solo acoustic circuit... full of well-crafted For more than two years, Gr- and Nutrition Educator at the Program is offering the 8-hr. First songs and rich, emotional vocals.” University of Minnesota, re- zan’s ownership group has been Time Course Wed.-Thur., Mar. trying to assemble financing to turns to lead another one-time 20-21, noon-4pm at the Rondo ious, lonely, or fearful? Do you cooking/nutrition class. Space convert the abandoned nursing Community Outreach Library, Neighbor Day home into a 168-unit assisted liv- suffer from mood swings? Are is limited to 12 participants, 461 N. Dale St. you suffering from depression, and advance registration is re- ing facility. But the latest efforts The Driver Improvement planned for Mar. 23 at financing fell through, he said, panic attacks or crying spells? quired for this free class. At- course is open to the public; You can find help in a 12-Step The 4th annual Neighbor Day tendees will help prepare and and “there are a lot of people pre-registration is required. A chasing us for money.” Group called Emotions Anony- event at Rondo Education Center enjoy a healthy meal. Call Tom MN Highway Safety & Research mous (EA). (560 Concordia Ave.) is planned Fitzpatrick at Hamline Midway At the beginning of February, Center certified instructor teaches the previous construction partner At EA meetings, they read for Fri., Mar. 23, 4-7pm. Cele- Elders at 651-209-6542 or email this class. By utilizing the most EA literature and share how brate the legacy of Fred Rogers by [email protected]. removed security fencing from the up-to-date research in the field, site’s perimeter. Grzan said owners they are coping with emotional joining your city-wide neighbors Knitting Group—Mondays, participants will be provided the problems and how applying the for an evening of fun. There will 1-3pm at Hamline Church Unit- cannot afford another fence or latest information in regards to other security. Selling the property 12 Steps of EA helps them find be hands-on activities, youth per- ed Methodist. Hamline Midway driver safety, new laws, and ve- mental health. formances, a community meal, Elders provides the yarn and is a possibility but “isn’t optimal,” hicle technology. This class has because owners are not likely to The meetings are open to the Metro State Dome (an in- needles along with some light something for everyone! The fee anyone who is seeking to achieve flatable planetarium), a bouncy snacks. The participants work on recover their investment, he said. for the eight-hour course is $26. “We haven’t thrown in the towel, and maintain emotional bal- house, inflatable obstacle course projects, such as making shawls For more information or to reg- ance. EA is not a religious group, and more! to be donated to a local hospice but our back is against the wall.” ister, visit their website at www. and they welcome people of any This free event is hosted by or blankets for a child care cen- mnsafetycenter.org or call toll- religious affiliation or no reli- the St. Paul Public Schools’ Com- ter. But it has also become a nice No dog park planned free 888-234-1294. gious affiliation. There is no cost munity Education department. social gathering for a group of Persons age 55 and older who to attend meetings. Only first Their daily programs include Adult 8-10 elders and new participants for Newell Park complete the course qualify for a names are used, and everything Basic Education, Adult Enrich- are welcome. We are also seek- 10% discount on their auto insur- said at a meeting is confidential. ment, Discovery Club, Early Child ing donations of yarn. Hamline Midway Coalition has ance premiums for three years, EA meets each Wednesday, 7pm, and Family Education, Flipside Reading Buddy—1st and been informed that the City of according to Minnesota law. First- at the Hamline United Methodist After School, Youth Enrichment, 3rd Wednesdays from 10:45- Saint Paul is not planning to cre- time participants must complete Church, 1514 Englewood Ave. and the Como Planetarium. 11:30am at Hancock/Hamline ate a dog park in Newell at this the initial eight hours of training Use the rear entrance and ring Neighbor Day is open to the Magnet Elementary School, time. Comments or questions and a four-hour refresher class the bell to gain admittance. The public, and all are welcome. 1599 Englewood Ave. Our part- should be directed to the Ward every three years to maintain the meeting is upstairs in Room 7. Please RSVP at https://neigh- nership with the school and the 4 City Council office at Ward4@ 10% discount. borday2018.eventbrite.com, so Reading Buddy Program contin- ci.stpaul.mn.us. they know how many to expect. ues twice a month during the There is an effort underway Wednesday soup Walk-ins will also be welcome. school year. The third-grade stu- to create an off-leash facility for NAMI holds partner dents enjoy reading to neigh- small dogs on a small parcel of suppers continue borhood elders, and the older land in Union Park. You can support group adults love the interaction with Jehovah Lutheran Church re- News from Hamline learn more about that proposal the children. No experience is NAMI Minnesota (National Alli­ sumes its Wednesday night online at unionparkdc.org/sites/ needed, we’re just looking for ance on Mental Illness) sponsors soup suppers from 5:30-6:30pm Midway Elders default/files/Community Dog older adults with a desire to in- a support group specifically for through Mar. 21. Suppers are free Field Proposal.pdf (note there are Tai Chi Classes—Mondays, teract with third-grade students. partners or spouses of someone and open to all. A free-will offer- actual spaces between words in 11:30-12:30pm at Hamline New participants are wel- who lives with a mental illness. ing is welcome. this email address). Church United Methodist, 1514 come for all the above activities. The Partners and Spouses Support Information is available by call- Englewood Ave. Kathy Carlson For more information, please Group meets on the 2nd and 4th ing the church at 651-644-1421. The leads a new 8-week series this contact Tom Fitzpatrick at Ham- Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm, church entry, which is handicapped Susan Sochacki spring. Tai Chi is a gentle ex- line Midway Elders at 651-209- at Falcon Heights United Church accessible, is at 1566 Thomas Ave. ercise that increases flexibility of Christ, 1795 Holton St. (Holton 6542 or [email protected]. named to Honor Roll and Garden). For more informa- Susan Sochacki was Hamline tion, call Melissa at 651-354-0825 Midway Coalition’s Honor Roll or Sara at 763-350-6502. SD company wins contract for LED video displays at stadium awardee for 2018. Neighborhood Honor Roll is given to outstand- Daktronics (NASDAQ-DAKT) of contrast to fans in every seat. It the stadium architecture. Another ing volunteers and neighbors La Leche League Brookings, South Dakota, has will feature variable content zon- ribbon display will be installed on across St. Paul for their outstand- partnered with Minnesota United ing allowing it to show one large the opposite seating fascia. ing work. meets Mar. 13 FC to deliver new LED displays image or to be divided into mul- Each of these ribbon displays According to the Coalition, The next meeting of the La Leche for Allianz Field, the team’s new, tiple windows to show any com- will measure 2.5 feet high by 380 Sochacki is a true catalyst for League of St. Paul Como-Midway soccer-specific stadium in the bination of live video, instant feet wide. change in Hamline Midway. will be held on Tues., Mar. 13, Midway. This summer, one main replay, match statistics, graphics Additionally, eight ribbon Sochacki worked tirelessly to from 7-8:45pm. The discussion display and ten ribbon displays and animations, and sponsorship displays will be installed through- make the pedestrian crossing at will focus on breastfeeding-relat- will be installed at the new stadi- messages. out the stadium: two along the Pierce Butler Rte. and Hamline ed issues. Please contact Heidi at um to elevate the overall experi- Along the seating fascia, Dak­ Supporters Section fascia, two at Ave. safer for all, especially the 651-659-9527 for more details. ence at soccer matches and other tronics will install a ribbon dis- the South Gate and four at the students that cross there daily. special events. play featuring a 15HD pixel layout North Gate. These displays will Through her perseverance, a At one end of the stadium, a using patented ProRail technology. feature 16-millimeter line spacing Rectangular Flashing Beacon Emotions Anonymous main LED video display featuring This technology allows for better and allow for additional statistics, (RFB) was installed at the cross- a 15HD pixel layout will measure sightlines as the mounting of the animations and sponsorship mes- ing. Sochacki plans to monitor meets Wednesdays 23 feet high by 115 feet wide to LED product is connected closer to sages to be highlighted through- the impact of the RFB for years Do you often feel nervous, anx- bring excellent image clarity and the seating fascia coordinated with out events.

Page 12 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com Register at your local Recreation Center Como Community Council Corner North Dale Recreation Center: www.stpaul.gov/northdaleRec or call 651-558-2329 • Tumbling, ages 3-5; Thur., Apr. 12- By MICHAEL KUCHTA, Executive Director May 17; 5-5:45pm; $40 • Veggie Basics Gardening for Adults; Sat, Mar. 17; 9am-3pm; free Pedestrian safety: what’s the next step? • Zumba for Adults; 9:30-10:30am on Wed., Apr. 11–June 6; $60 How to make our streets safer for tunity for new activists to seek an Station. Join LSS Financial Coun- • Awesome Drawing, ages 6-12; 7-8pm pedestrians is the topic of District open seat. To find out more, see seling and TopLine Federal Credit on Wed., Apr. 11-May 16; $60 10’s next Sunday Series presen- the article on District 10’s web- Union for a workshop to learn: • Awesome Preschool Drawing, ages tation on Mar. 18. Fay Simer, St. site: www.district10comopark. • How to get and read your credit 3-5; 6-6:45pm on Wed., Apr. 11-May Paul’s new pedestrian safety ad- org. The positions on this April’s report 16; $60 vocate, and Sgt. Jeremy Ellison, ballot: • How your credit score is calcu- • Music Together, ages 1mo-6; 6:15- who leads enforcement in the • Vice-Chair lated and ways to increase your 7pm, Mon., Apr. 9-June 18; $177 citywide Stop for Me campaign, • Treasurer score • POWA Hip Hop, ages 16+; 9:30- share their ideas and invite yours. • One representative from each • Ways to improve negative credit 10:30am, Sat, Apr. 7-May 26; $60 Their presentation, ”The of four geographic sub-districts and build good credit • Digital Dating Violence, ages 16- Next Step: Pedestrian Safety in • Two at-large representatives • Your FCRA rights and how to Adult; 10-11am on Sat, Mar. 31; free Saint Paul,” is Sun., Mar. 18 in Any resident of District 10 correct errors • Men’s Soccer; 9:30am-12:30pm on the upstairs auditorium at the who is age 18 or older is eligi- To register for the workshop Sat, through Apr. 7; $3/weekly • Parent/Child Tot Time; Mon./Wed./Thur. at 9am Como Zoo and Conservatory’s ble to run. So are authorized rep- call 763-391-9494. • Elmo’s World Art, ages 3-5; 9:30-10:30am on Sat, Apr. 21; $15 Visitors Center, 1225 Estabrook resentatives from a business or **Lunch With The Bunny on Sat, Mar. 24, 11am-1pm; all ages; $2/per- Dr. All Sunday Series events are nonprofit organization located in Get your junk pile son or $5/family free; they run from 1-2:30pm. District 10. together earlier this year **No School Days Spring Break, ages 6-12; 8:30am-5pm, Apr. 2-6; $25 Future presentations in 2018: Candidates interested in Heads up, procrastinators! The • Crime Prevention through a board position must submit Northwest Como Recreation Center: www.stpaul.gov/northwest- Landscape Design, Sun., Apr. their name and a brief biography yearly Citywide Drop-Off at the State Fairgrounds will be earli- comoRec or call 651-298-5813 15, Como Park Streetcar Station, by Tues., Apr. 10. Nominations • Babysitting Training, ages 11-17; on Thur., Apr. 5, 9am-3:30pm; $60 1224 Lexington Pkwy. N.—Patty submitted after that date will be er this year. Usually, the event— where you get rid of stuff you • Geography Explorer, ages 7-12; on Wed., Apr. 11-May 2, 3:15- Lammers, crime prevention co- treated as write-in candidacies. 4:15pm; $30 ordinator for the St. Paul Police, Board members elected this can’t throw in the trash—is in the fall. But in 2018, Drop-Off Day • Get Connected, ages 5-12; on Mon., Apr. 16, 3:15-4:15pm; $20 advises where to plant, where not year will serve from Apr. 24, • Plumbing Repairs for Adults on Wed., Apr. 25, 6-7pm; free to plant, and what to plant to 2018, until Apr. 28, 2020. is June 9. We’ll fill you in on de- tails as we get closer, but this is • Family Open Gym; Sun. through Mar. 25, 3-5pm; free make yourself, your family, and • Parents Night Out, ages 4-12; Sat, Apr. 28, 6-9pm; $7/child your home safer. What do you think definitely the year to take spring cleaning seriously. • Artist Workshop Winter, ages 8-17; 3:15-5:15pm on Tue., Apr. 10- • Como Park Tree Trek, Sun., about the crosswalk idea? May 15; $60 June 3 (meet outside the Como • Young Men’s 5 on 5 Basketball, ages 15-20; 8-9pm on Wed., Apr. Lakeside Pavilion, 1360 Lexing- St. Paul Parks and Recreation Upcoming District 10 meetings plans to build a new pedestri- 4-May 30; free ton Pkwy. N.)—Certified arborist • Como Community Council • Art/Wine/Pizza for Adults; Mon., Apr. 16, 7-9pm; $50 and former Tree Advisory Panel an crosswalk across Lexington Monthly Meeting: Tues., Mar. 20 member Tim Morgan leads a Pkwy., near the parking lots for • Environment Committee: the Golf Course and Lakeside Langford Recreation Center: www.stpaul.gov/LangfordRec or call walk to help you better identify Wed., Mar. 28 651-298-5765 and understand local tree species, Pavilion. District 10 is exploring • Neighborhood Relations and residents’ priorities about the • Tumbling, ages 3-5; on Wed., Apr. 11-May 16; $40 their health, and the diseases and Safety Committee: Tues., Apr. 3 • Minecraft EDU, ages 6-10; Fri. Mar. 30, 1-4pm; $40 pests that affect them. proposed crosswalk and some of • Land Use Committee: Wed., the potential options. Take our • Vegie Basics Gardening for Adults; Tue., Apr. 11-24, 6:30-8pm; free Apr. 4 • Pilates Intermediate Level for adults; on Thur., Mar. 15-May 17, You, too, can join survey at www.surveymonkey. All meetings begin at 7pm at com/r/D10LexCrossing. 11am-Noon; $73 the District 10 Board the Como Park Streetcar Station, • STEM Club, ages 7-11; 6-7:30pm on Mon., Apr. 16-30; $75 at the northeast corner of Lex- • Zumba for Adults; 7:45-8:45pm on Mon., Apr. 9-June 4; $60 Eight positions on the Como Improve your credit score ington and Horton. Community • Bowling, ages 50+; 9-11am on Fri. (ongoing); free Community Council Board are Learn how to understand and members are always welcome to • Walking, ages 18+; 2-3pm on Fri. through Mar. 30; free up for election at District 10’s an- improve your credit and credit attend and participate. Whenever • Tot Time; Thursday mornings; 9-10:30am nual meeting on Tues., Apr. 17. score at a free Financial Litera- possible, agendas are posted in • Soo Bahk Do, ages 6-Adult; on Thur. (ongoing); $45/month In at least six of the positions, the cy Workshop on Wed., Mar. 21, advance in the “Board News” sec- **Spring Break Blast, ages 6-12; 1-4pm, Apr. 2-6; free incumbent is not seeking re-elec- 6pm, at the Como Park Streetcar tion of District 10’s website. tion. So this year is a great oppor-

On Jan. 20, three Hamline Ele- nior Lego League team (2nd and mentary/Jie Ming teams compet- 3rd graders) participated in an ed in the St. Paul Lego Robotics exhibition during the State Tour- Regional Tournament, facing off Hamline Elementary School nament, showing off their emerg- against dozens of other schools. ing skills by developing a poster, All three teams received awards building a model, and presenting By JESSICA KOPP (Robot Performance, Robot De- their work. sign, two in Core Values) for Thanks to Hamline Elemen- their work. Lego robotics reveal greatness in the Midway tary and Jie Ming science teach- Two teams qualified for er Dr. Bonnie Laabs and several the MN First Lego League State This year’s theme was Hydro improve the way people find, use, ganizations as they developed, other dedicated volunteers who Championship (grades 4-8), held Dynamics, and each team com- transport, or dispose of water.” built, and refined their project. gave the teams the tools and en- on Feb. 24, where they joined pleted a project that, according to The teams conducted research, The Hydro Dragons created couragement they needed to suc- around 60 other Lego Robotics the First Lego League guidelines, talked to experts, and presented an electrical rain garden to pro- ceed. Congratulations to all on a teams from around Minnesota in “developed a creative solution to to various individuals and or- duce clean, renewable energy. great year of awesome engineer- a lively and friendly competition. The Hydro Huskies created the ing and teamwork—and buckle compost tea booster to create up, because next year the project natural, nutrient-rich rainwater and mission will take the teams for use in personal and commu- into space! nity gardens. The teams also built small robots, using Lego Mind- storms kits, that were then pro- grammed to complete various “missions” related to hydrody- namics on a small course. At the State Tournament, the Hydro Dragons took home the Inspiration Award for, “demon- strating extraordinary enthusi- asm, support, and encourage- ment of fellow teams.” This is re- lated to First Lego League’s Core Values which include shared learning, sportsmanship, and having fun. If the current state of Lego Robotics is strong at 1599 Engle- The Hydro Huskies huddle at the wood Ave., the future is bright, MN First Lego League State Cham- The Junior Lego League team, The Water Mixing Dragons, took home the Inspiration Award at the MN First Lego too. The Water Mixing Dragons, a pionship held Feb. 24. (Photo sub- League State Championship. (Photo submitted) Hamline Elementary/Jie Ming Ju- mitted) www.MonitorSaintPaul.com • Monitor • March 2018 Page 13 The Hamline Midway Library, of the award-winning POV docu- 1558 W. Minnehaha Ave., is your mentary series and the Hamline neighborhood spot to connect Midway Elders Association. with your community, enjoy News from Hamline Midway Library Also on Wed., Mar. 28, great programs, access the Inter- 6:30pm, the library presents net, and stock up on books, CDs, Poetry in the Neighborhood, a and DVDs, all free with your li- By CARRIE POMEROY poetry workshop with poet and brary card. teaching artist Rodrigo San- Local mosaic Artist Lori chez-Chavarria. Participants can Greene will be designing a com- Help construct the Hamline Midway Library mosaic! play with different poetic forms munity mosaic for the Hamline and generate ideas about the Midway Library. Community Hamline-Midway community members are invited to partici- while creating a neighborhood pate in the construction of the poem. This event is a presen- mosaic on the following dates: tation of the Friends of the St. Mar. 22, 3-7pm, Mar. 23, 1-4pm, Paul Public Library. and Mar. 24, 12-3pm. Come On Fri., Mar. 30, 2pm, enjoy make a lasting impact on our li- a family-friendly silent com- brary with art that patrons will edy matinee featuring Harold enjoy for years! Lloyd’s breathtaking 1923 dare- Preschool Storytimes in devil comedy “Safety Last!” You English happen Fridays, 10:30- may have seen the movie’s fa- 11am, with upcoming events on mous image of a bespectacled Mar. 9 and 30 and Apr. 6, 13, man hanging from a clock face and 20. Storytimes feature sto- high above a city street—now ries, songs, puppets, and more. you can see the legendary come- They’re a great way for caregivers dy behind the image. This event to bond with children and build features free hot popcorn and social skills, listening compre- cider. hension, and letter and number On Sat., Apr. 7, 1-2pm, the recognition while creating a solid Saints and Sinners Book Club foundation for lifelong learning. meets to discuss good myster- Children of all activity levels are ies. Contact volunteer G. Balter welcome! for book lists and more informa- Starting on Apr. 3, the li- The library will feature Harold Lloyd’s breathtaking 1923 daredevil silent film comedy “Safety Last!” on Mar. 30, tion at [email protected] brary is also offering Evening 2pm. (Web image) or 651-224-5570. Storytimes on Tuesdays from You can get a head start on 6-6:30pm, with additional story- and video, and experiment with “Lumberjanes, Volume 1: Beware your gardening plans on Tues., times on Apr. 10, 17, and 24. making your own creations on the Kitten Holy” will be the focus of Apr. 10, 6:30pm, with Native On Sat., Mar. 10, 1:30-3pm, iPads and other tech, to be pro- March’s Start a Series Book Club on Plants for the Garden. the library presents the popu- vided. Participants can also bring Mar. 19. (Web image) Mark your calendar for lar Science Saturdays program, their own phone, laptop, tablet, Math and Science Day at the Li- where school-aged participants or notebook. This activity, pro- brary on Sat., Apr. 14, 11:30am- and their families can enjoy fun, vided by a grant from the State aimed at adult fiction enthusiasts 5pm, when the focus will be fun hands-on science and art activ- Arts Board, is free and does not will discuss “And the Mountains math and science activities for ities. No pre-registration neces- require advance registration— Echoed” by Khaled Hosseini. school-aged children and their sary—just come by when you just show up! On Wed., Mar. 28, 1-3pm, families. can. The theme will be Wind and The Start a Series Book Club Jody’s Documentary Film Se- On Thur., Apr. 19, 6:30- Air Experiments. On Sat., Apr. 14, will meet on Mon., Mar. 19, ries will feature “Swim Team,” 7:45pm, Metropolitan State Uni- 1:30-3pm, the Science Saturdays 4-5pm, to discuss “Lumberjanes, directed by Lara Stolen. Meet versity professor Matt Filner and theme will be Optical Illusions. Volume 1: Beware the Kitten Mikey, Robert, and Kelvin, three Gil Gustafson of the non-parti- Word and Sound Lab con- Holy” by Noelle Stevenson. This exceptional swimmers on the san group Clean Elections Min- tinues at the library on Tuesday book club is recommended for same competitive team who are nesota will present Elections afternoons from 4:30-6pm, with grades 5 and up, and each month all on the autism spectrum— and the State of our Democracy, upcoming sessions on Mar. 13, the group will focus on discuss- and no one, but no one, is going a look at how gerrymandering, 20, and 27. Poet Becca Barniskis ing the first book in a series. to tell them what they can and dark money, and the erosion of and musician Nick Jaffe are of- The Show and Tell Book can’t do. Enjoy the free film and voting rights for some citizens is fering this open studio workshop Club for grades 1-3 meets on snacks and stay for the post-film impacting our country. discussion facilitated by Jody. for youth grades 5-8. Explore the Sat., Mar. 24, from 1:30-2:15pm. Club meets on Thur., Mar. 29, All libraries will be closed This program is a collaboration intersection of poetry, sound, The Novels at Night Book 6:30-7:30pm. This book club on Sun., Apr. 1 for Easter. Classifieds Want ads must be received by the Monitor by April 2 for the April 12 issue. Call 651 645 7045 for more information. - - Monitor Your classified ad will also be automatically placed on the Monitor's website at www.MonitorSaintPaul.com Monitor Want Ads are $1 per word and Trusts, Probate, Real Estate, with a $10 minimum. Send your and Family. Kirsten Libby, 855 OFFICE SPACE CLASSIFIED ADS ARE remittance along with your ad to Rice Street, Suite 100, St. Paul, Quiet, professional office space NEXT DEADLINE: Monitor Classifieds, 125 1st Ave. MN, 651-487-1208 www.libby- with free, attached parking. Single ONLY $1/WORD WITH A NW, PO Box 168, Minneapolis, lawoffice.com. B-18 offices up to 10,000 sf. Building April 2 MN 55369. Want ads must be information available at ham- 10-WORD MINIMUM. mailed to the Monitor by Apr. 2 AUTO STORAGE linepp.com . Contact Eric with for the Apr. 12 issue. Ad copy can Secured auto and boat storage Colliers at 952-837-3087. 3-18 (includes online ad) be e-mailed to denis@deruyter- near Snelling and University. nelson.com. Call 651-645-7045 Short term or long term. Heated PAINTING for more information. Your classi- and unheated available. 570 Interior Exterior Painting / Repair. fied ad will also be automatically Asbury Street. 651-641-0166. Wallpaper Removal, etc. Gutter placed on the Monitor’s website at hamlineparkstorage.com. 3-18 Cleaning. Insured. 651-699- www.MonitorSaintPaul.com 2832. B-18 LAWN CARE Painter Jim. 35 years experience. APARTMENT WANTED Lawn/Snow Service, Yard/Gutter Wallpaper removal. Small paint- Quiet working woman seeking Cleaning. Roof Snow/Ice. 651- ing jobs wanted. 612-202-5514. one-bedroom apartment. I prefer 688-9977. B-18 3-18 duplex or similar small building. Flexible moving date. Lynn 651- 489-9053 [email protected] ATTORNEY Creative Solutions With a Personal Touch. Legal Services in the areas of: Small Business, Wills

Page 14 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com St. Paul Ballet is breaking down barriers so all can dance By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN In only five years’ time, St. Paul Ballet (SPB) has es- tablished itself as a thriving non-profit dance school and company in the Midway neigh- borhood. Their mission is to re- joice in the beauty and imme- diacy of dance with the widest possible audience, to lift the human spirit through the art of ballet, to provide outstanding dance education, and to per- form a vibrant repertory with excellence. To accomplish all of this, they’re breaking down bar- riers to participation in ballet— one after another. Executive Director Lori Gleason, said, “At first glance, the things that seem to get in the way for people are transpor- tation and cost. Our studios are conveniently located just three blocks north of the Greenline LRT station at 655 Fairview Ave. We also have ample off-street parking. The first class here is al- Children in the Parent and Me class on Saturday mornings enjoy movement ways free for new students, and to music, along with songs and games. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) we offer many affordable drop- in classes.” “Our philosophy at SPB local Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs in flexibility, and strength, as well is to address each dancer as a the summer, offering classes and as technique.” A dress code of whole person,” Gleason con- watching for students ages 7-14 black ballet slippers, shorts, and tinued. “Traditionally, bal- from communities of color who a white t-shirt is required. let dancers have had a certain might have a natural ability for Lastly, SPB and their neigh- look. Members of SPB’s com- ballet. The goal of Project Plie bor/landlord have created a pany created something a few is to diversify the field of ballet partnership that is busting The Parent and Me class welcomes Spanish speaking families, with the help years ago called ‘Take Back the and keep it culturally relevant through barriers. Next door to of pre-professional student Emilia Garrido, who is a native Spanish speaker. Tutu’—which sets the tone for for years to come. SPB, Element Gym is owned (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) inclusiveness at the school, Another perceived barrier and operated by Dalton Out- and shows that all body types to participation in ballet can be law—a boxer who trains com- are welcomed and celebrated. age. SPB offers an intermedi- petitive fighters and leads fit- ‘Take Back the Tutu’ empowers ate level class from 10-11:30am ness classes. SPB and Element dancers to claim ownership of on Mondays and Wednesdays Gym teamed up for a series of their bodies, and to throw out called Life Long Ballet. Taught performances last year called the idea that every dancer has to by Anna Goodrich, the class is a “The Art of Boxing – the Sport look the same.” magnet for people who want to of Ballet.” The performance will In the past, SPB has part- keep dancing all through their be repeated this year at 6pm on nered with the Melrose Institute lives. The oldest students are in Apr. 15 at the Ordway Concert and the Emily Program to pro- their 80’s, with an average age of Hall. Gleason said, “One of the vide information and guidance 60. The class is followed by an many wonderful things that about nutrition and eating dis- optional 30 minutes of strength have come out of our partner- orders. They also sponsor an an- conditioning. ship with Dalton and his ath- nual health fair in the fall that is “Dance is for people of all letes is that more women and open to the public and provides ages, as long as it’s enjoyable,” girls are taking boxing classes, a wealth of health and wellness Gleason said. and more men and boys are tak- information. ‘Boys Club’ is a new class ing ballet. We learned that our The recreational program at happening on Saturdays from two organizations have a lot of SPB serves about 300 students 1-2pm. This introduction to bal- shared values around training through music and movement let, for boys ages 7-12, is offered and community building.” classes, beginning with a class free of charge. Gleason said, “In To learn more about the called ‘Parent and Me” for danc- keeping with our philosophy of work of SPB, call 651-690-1588 ‘Take Back the Tutu’ empowers dancers to claim ownership of their bod- ers ages 2.5-4 and their parents. treating dancers as athletes, this or visit their website at www.sp- ies, and to throw out the idea that every dancer has to look the same.” This class (offered on Saturday class emphasizes conditioning, ballet.org. mornings 8:45-9:30) welcomes Spanish and English speaking families. “Not speaking English shouldn’t be a barrier to par- ticipation,” Gleason explained. “This is the fourth session that we’ve offered this class; it was the idea of Mary Coats, Direc- tor of our Young Children’s Program. One of our pre-profes- sional students is the teaching assistant. She’s a native Spanish speaker who greets families at the door and translates as much of the class as is needed into Spanish. We feel this broadens the experience for everyone.” Laura Greenwell is SPB’s School Director and an instruc- tor in the pre-professional pro- gram. She is also the only ballet teacher in the state of Minne- sota certified by the American Ballet Theatre at the highest level of their National Teacher Training Curriculum. Because of this, she is eligible to bring American Ballet Theatre’s Proj- ect Plié out into the commu- nity. Greenwell partners with Children in the Parent and Me class on Saturday mornings enjoy movement to music, along with songs and games.(Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) www.MonitorSaintPaul.com • Monitor • March 2018 Page 15 Jewish Community Action launches new justice initiative By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN Campaign, contact community Since 1995, Jewish Com- organizer Rachel English at ra- munity Action (JCA), 2375 Uni- chel@jewishcommunityaction. versity Ave. W., Suite #150. has org. worked to organize Jewish Min- Visible in the community in nesotans to act together for so- another way, JCA will be host- cial change. ing their annual Freedom Seder With a unique model that on Sun., Mar. 11 from 2-5pm at combines traditional congre- Mount Zion Synagogue (1300 gational-based community or- Summit Ave.). Friends, partners, ganizing with issue-based cam- allies, and community members paign work, they partner with are invited to observe Passover local coalitions, interfaith ini- together, and to share a meal. tiatives, neighborhood groups, The cost is $18; reservations are people of color, and immigrant strongly recommended, though groups. They believe in work- walk-ins won’t be turned away. ing collectively to directly ad- What is a Freedom Seder? dress the causes of poverty, During the 1960’s, rabbis and racism, and injustice. Tho ac- activists across the country complish this they train teams were inspired by the American of volunteer leaders who take Civil Rights Movement. They this work inward to their con- Participants in the soft launch of the Decriminalizing Communities Campaign had opportunities to discuss their wanted to incorporate what gregations, as well as outward own experiences (direct and indirect) with the criminal justice system, and their hopes for a better future. was happening in present time to their broader communities. into the telling of the Pass- JCA’s campaigns are driven by over story, which recounts how Jewish values, but people from we continue to incarcerate more countable while upholding their pleted their sentences and are the Israelites were freed from all backgrounds are welcome people for longer periods of human rights. We envision a once again living and working slavery in Egypt. For more in- to join in their work for social time. Evidence shows that our community-centered justice sys- in their communities. formation about the Freedom change. prison system is both profit-mo- tem that uses comprehensive For more information on Seder, contact: Lauren Musco- On Feb. 15, JCA staff mem- tivated and powered by the ra- approaches to public safety. We how to get involved in the De- plat at lauren@jewishcommu- ber Rachel English and intern cial oppression that underlies envision a justice system that ac- criminalizing Communities nityaction.org. Anam Hasan led a soft launch many of the systems that remain knowledges the suffering caused of a campaign called De-crimi- fundamental to our society. We by institutional oppression, and nalizing Communities. believe in the need for a justice works to eliminate the injustices The event started with de- system that is truly fair.” that trap many people in cycles fining some of the organiza- English continued, “Our vi- of hopelessness and despair.” tion’s core values. English ex- sion is of a justice system that Embedded in the Decrim- plained, “We believe that all treats incarceration as a last re- inalizing Communities Cam- people are equal. We believe sort. We envision one that em- paign are two other initiatives. that all people deserve to live phasizes rehabilitation, drug The first addresses the for-profit in safe communities and safe treatment, mental health care private prison system: it seeks homes. Despite its name, we and community-based ser- to push back on the creation of do not believe that our crimi- vices to prevent incarceration, private prisons and ICE deten- nal justice system is just. In the and supports people upon tion centers in Minnesota. The past 20 years, all forms of crime their release. We envision one second seeks to restore voting have declined in our state, yet that holds violent offenders ac- rights to felons who have com-

Page 16 March 2018 • Monitor • www.MonitorSaintPaul.com