Dayton's Bluff District Forum
March 2007
Volume 20, No. 1
Dayton’s Bluff Adds Three to Neighborhood Honor Roll
Sharon McCrea, Dave Murphy and Marge Smith  were added to the Saint Paul Neighborhood Honor Roll this year.  Nominations are now being accepted for next year’s Honor Roll.  Back row(l to r): Kathy Lantry, Dave Murphy, Jacob Dorer, Ed Lambert, Ellen Biales and John Smith.  Middle row: Jean Comstock, Angela DuPaul and Marge Smith.  Front row: Sharon McCrea and Karin DuPaul.

   Hundreds of people attended the Celebrate Saint Paul’s District Council reception held at St. Thomas College in January. The yearly celebration started in the 1980s as did the Saint Paul Neighborhood Honor Roll, a list of Saint Paul citizens who have done outstanding service in their neighborhoods over a long period of time.
   Each year all 17 District Councils can add three names to the honor roll. Past honor roll inductees volunteered for years at a church or a school, served on the community board, led projects like Buckthorn removal or spearheaded ongoing community events.
   This year Dayton’s Bluff added Sharon McCrea, Dave Murphy, and Margie Smith for their years of service in the Dayton’s Bluff neighborhood.  The Saint Paul Neighborhood Honor Roll is located in the hallway on the third floor of the Saint Paul City Hall and Court House. The quality and amount of volunteer time that make our communities better is amazing in Saint Paul.
   The Dayton’s Bluff District 4 Community Council is looking for three people to add to the honor roll next year. If you know of someone who has done an outstanding job of volunteer work in Dayton’s Bluff, email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org or call Karin at 772-2075.

April Showers Bring New District Plan

By Ed Lambert, Executive Director, Dayton’s Bluff Community Council
   The purpose of a district plan is to describe the community’s vision of its future development and to help guide city staff and residents in working toward that vision.  The plan outlines a community’s history and charts its major development experiences and planned future direction.  In short, it spells out what we have been as a community and where we want to go.
   Dayton’s Bluff first assembled a district plan in 1978; and updated it in 1986. It has been our adopted plan for the last 20 years.  In St. Paul, community plans should be updated or redone every ten years.  Ours has five key areas:

* Commercial and Economic Development
*  Community Life, Public Spaces, and Recreation
* Housing and Residential Life
* Neighborhood Safety and Liv-ability
* Transportation, Traffic, and Parking. 

   The Dayton’s Bluff Community Council has been guiding the development of our new plan through surveys, public meetings, research, and  committee work since 2004 when it was decided to create a new plan.
   Watch this space for announcements of the final public meetings to present the new plan to the community, and send it to the city to be incorporated into St. Paul’s overall city plan.  The Council intends for this document to inform the community of the vision and goals which were expressed by the community itself.  Given continued community involvement, it will guide the growth and development of the Bluff.
   Keep these two dates open so you can be part of finalizing the plan:  an evening meeting on April 17, and a Saturday meeting on April 21.  Details will be in the April District Forum and on www.daytonsbluff.org early in April.   Call 651-772-2075 for more information.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church Receives Grant

   Bethlehem Lutheran Church at 655 Forest St. recently received a $50,000 grant designed to generate thousands more in financial gifts to the church. The grant, “Sharing the Blessing in the Center City” will provide biblically sound stewardship principles for Bethlehem’s culturally diverse members to enable them to effectively reach out to the surrounding inner city area. The grant is one of 75 awarded by the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation as part of its $4.8 million Charitable Gifting Initiative program. 
   “This grant will help Bethlehem remain on the east side of St. Paul and continue it’s ministry in our community for many years to come,”  said Barbara Fallert, a Bethlehem member. “It is our hope that this grant will strengthen Bethlehem’s ability to inform potential donors of various options available to them to financially support Bethlehem’s work,” said Brad Hewitt, president of the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation. “As people come alongside Bethlehem with charitable gifts, Bethlehem will become increasingly effective in carrying out its ministry and mission.”
   The 2006 Charitable Gifting Initiative grants ranged from $5,000 to $100,000. The 75 grants are expected to generate a total of more than $160 million in immediate or deferred monetary gifts to Lutheran institutions. 
   The Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation is a private foundations funded by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. As a 501(c)(3) organization with its own board of trustees, the foundation is organized and operated exclusively for charitable, religious, scientific, literary and educational purposes and makes grants and gifts to 501(c)(3) exempt organizations.  The foundation does not provide grants to individuals.  To learn more about the foundation and its programs, visit: www.thrivent.com/foundations.

Friends of Swede Hollow Looking for New Members

  Friends of Swede Hollow (FOSH) is a nonprofit organization formed in 1994 when a number of interested neighbors from both sides of Swede Hollow came together to discuss our common goals, deep affection for, and commitment to the park, as well as our dreams, ideas, concerns, and the history of Swede Hollow. Other dedicated Swede Hollow supporters have joined the group since then. Many of the members have been involved in Swede Hollow since the early 1970s when Swede Hollow Park was in the early stages of development.
   FOSH has been meeting on the last Wednesday of each month, working on Swede Hollow issues, planning and orchestrating a number of clean ups and work days and projects in the park, as well as oral history sessions, history tours, and events that promote Swede Hollow Park.
   FOSH initiated the Lower Phalen Creek Project, a project to extend the Bruce Vento Trail and make the area from Swede Hollow to the  Mississippi River a beautiful nature area like Swede Hollow, which is now the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary. FOSH started a project in 1998 to save the Hamm Brewery buildings. The brewery is just north of Swede Hollow and the brewery is a beautiful back drop to Swede Hollow as well as an important Saint Paul landmark.
   FOSH welcomes new members. If you are interested in learning more about it or have any questions email KarinDuPaul@comcast.net or call 651-776-0550.

Be Your Own Boss
Graduates of a recent Dayton’s Bluff Neighborhood Entrepreneur Training and Support Program with their family and friends at the class graduation at First Lutheran Church. Registration is now being taken for the April 2007 class. Call Karin at 772-2075

   The next Dayton’s Bluff Neighborhood Microentrepreneur Class is starting  April 4, 2007.  This program helps start-up and young businesses on the East Side.  All East Side entrepreneurs are welcome.
   Class training lasts 8 weeks and includes topics such as operations management, marketing, financial management, one to one assistance with creating a successful business, and preparing a business plan, plus 8 hours of one on one time with the instructor.  Those who successfully complete the course and locate their businesses in target neighborhoods are eligible for ongoing business support services.
   Some examples of businesses started by people who have previously taken this course include graphics, photography, food service, restoration of wood furniture and works of art, custom floral design for weddings and events, and exterior and interior painting.  The course is sponsored by the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council and the Neighborhood Development Center.  There is a small registration fee based on a sliding fee scale.  The next session will start in April 2007 and class size is limited. 
   Please email or call Karin at   Karin@Daytonsbluff.org  or 772-2075 for an application.

Dayton's Bluff Community Meeting

   The next Community Meeting is Thursday, March 1, 2007 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the meeting room at the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council, 798 East 7th Street at the corner of 7th and Margaret.
   The Dayton’s Bluff Community Council holds its Community Meeting on the 1st Thursday of each month.  The purpose is to work with block clubs and neighborhood residents on problem properties, criminal and nuisance behavior, code enforcement issues and any other neighborhood issues, concerns, or new ideas for improvement in Dayton’s Bluff.
   Remember, it’s always on the 1st Thursday of the month. All Dayton’s Bluff residents are welcome to attend. If you need more information email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org or call Karin at 651-772-2075.

Dayton's Bluff Neighborhood Home Tour

    The 2007 Dayton’s Bluff Neighborhood Home Tour will be held on Saturday, April 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 29th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  It is part of the Minneapolis – St. Paul Home Tour sponsored by the Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. The Home Tour is free of charge and open to the public.
   The Dayton’s Bluff Neighborhood Home Tour features beautiful homes, and buildings being redeveloped into condominiums including 770 East 6th Street, 895 Mound Street, 658-666 East 4th Street, 771 East Minnehaha, and 1158 East 5th Street.
   We can always use volunteers to help with the Home Tour.  Volunteering consists of greeting people at the door to give out brochures and information about Dayton’s Bluff, and helping the homeowners for a few hours either day.  If you’re interested, please email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org or call Karin at 651-772-2075.

Parks and Rec Center Clean Up on April 14

  Residents of St. Paul are encouraged to help clean up their favorite park or recreation center on April 14, 2007 starting at 9:00 a.m. Each year tons of trash is removed from Saint Paul parks and recreation centers. The parks and recreation centers in Dayton’s Bluff include the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary, Mounds Park, Swede Hollow Park, Hamm Park, Dayton’s Bluff Recreation Center, and Margaret Recreation Center. The Clean Up is sponsored by Saint Paul Parks and Recreation. Email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org or call Karin at 651-772-2075 if you can help or for more information.

Junk Car in the Way? Get Rid of it Free

  Budget Towing of Minnesota, Minnesota’s largest towing company, was located in Dayton’s Bluff until just two years ago.  They moved to another part of St. Paul in order to make room for the Phalen Corridor and are now located off W. 7th St. near the Pearson Candy Company.
   Owner Roy Carlson still has a home in Dayton’s Bluff and is active with the District Council.  His firm will remove any junk car or truck, located anywhere in St. Paul, and dispose of it at no charge to the vehicle owner, or the property owner where it is located.  He will also make a small donation to the Council for each car he tows away.
   Just call Karin at 651-772-2075 to find out how you can get a junk car out of the way to help brighten up St. Paul and Dayton’s Bluff.  For those vehicles with no real value, and you “Gotta Get It Outta Here” call Karin. 

Greening Dayton's Bluff in 2007

   Plans for 2007 are well under way. We had two meetings to talk about planning for 2007.  One in November with people involved in our Gardening Grant program and the other in January for everyone with ideas. We will continue some of the favorites such as the plant swap, garden tours, boulevard planting, 7th Street plantings and workshops. We will be adding flowering pots in the business area at Hudson Road and Earl Street.
   On Tuesday, March 13th we are having a workshop, “Going Wild, Natural Planting”, about the ease and limited care that native planting require in gardens. The Workshop will be held in the meeting room of the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council, 798 East 7th Street starting at 6:30 p.m.
   We are in the process of scheduling workshops: Asian Gardening in Minnesota, Mexican Gardening in Minnesota, and Backyard Gardening for Birds. Our Rain Garden Workshop will be scheduled in May and participants are asked to bring photos, drawings, and/or plans for the site of their rain garden.
   The Annual Plant Sale and Swap will be held on Saturday, May 19th.  Watch for more information in the next issue of the Forum.
   Greening Dayton’s Bluff is funded by the Saint Paul Garden Club and the McKnight Foundation. For more information or to register, email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org  or call Karin at 651-772-2075.

Garden Artisans Needed

   The Greening Dayton’s Bluff committee is looking for crafters and artists to display their wares at the Annual Plant Sale and Swap on Saturday, May 19th. Space will be available to vendors of decorative and functional garden accessories such as birdfeeders, planters, trellises, birdhouses, or outdoor furniture. To reserve space email Karin at Karin@DaytonsBluff.org  or call Karin at 651-772-2075.

Recycle milk cartons and juice boxes!

  Eureka Recycling will now collect your milk cartons and juice boxes with bottles and cans. Recyclers should remove any caps or straws from the containers, then rinse and flatten them. Plastic pour spouts do not need to be removed. The most common types of this packaging are milk cartons, juice boxes, soup and broth cartons, and cartons for soy and rice beverages..
   This packaging is made of 70-85% high-grade paper. To be recycled, Eureka Recycling can only collect them with bottles and cans because it allows them to easily separate them out at their facility. It is then sold to companies where the paper is separated from the plastic coatings and metal linings in a pulping process and made into new paper products. For more information, call Eureka Recycling staffed recycling hotline at (651) 222-SORT (7678).

Get Connected, Get Involved, Improve Dayton's Bluff

By Ed Lambert, Executive Director, Dayton’s Bluff Community Council
   The Dayton’s Bluff District 4 Community Council Board elections take place each year during the month of October, and new members take their seats in November.  The Board has 18 members each elected to two-year terms.  Half are up for election each year as terms are staggered to ensure continuity.  All residents or property owners over 18 are qualified voters.
   Two at-large members represent the whole district, 4 members each from each of our 4 sub-districts represent their districts and the community.  There is one vacancy now (sub district A).  The Council strongly encourages interested residents (including renters), as well as property and business owners, from that sub district to contact the office if they are interested in filling that position.  The Board can fill vacancies at any board meeting; the new member takes their seat at the following meeting.  Board candidates are asked to fill out a brief information form 30 days before the next board meeting, so as to inform members a candidate for election will be on the next agenda.
   After new members are seated each Fall, the board elects its 4 officers for one year terms.  2007 Officers are: President Wally Waranka (at Large), VP John Barbie (Sub Dist D), Secretary Jean Comstock (Sub Dist B), and Treasurer Stephanie Harr (Sub Dist D).
   9 seats are up for election/re-election next Fall: 1 at-large seat, and 2 seats in each sub-district.  The Council strongly encourages all interested persons to contact Karin or Ed at the office, or any board member, to get information and/or express their interest in being on the Board.  You can have someone nominate you, or simply nominate yourself.
   We seek people with a strong interest in, and commitment to, Dayton’s Bluff to serve on the Board.  Recent immigrants, as well as long time residents are needed; as well as business owners who do not reside here, but own a business here.  Persons with strong ties to the Hmong and Hispanic communities, as well as the African-American and Native American communities, are strongly encouraged to join the Board and help strengthen efforts to improve our community.  
   Get connected, get involved; it’s how we make progress in Dayton’s Bluff and improve our community for everyone.  Your energy, ideas, and concerns are needed by all of us.
   For more information call Ed or Karin at 651-772-2075.

Need Recycling Bins?

 You can pick up recycling bins at 798 East 7th Street at the corner of 7th and Margaret. Call 651-772-2075 to be sure someone is in the office. 
   Curbside recycling pick up is every Tuesday.  Have your recycling on the curb by 7:00 a.m.

Join New Walk the Bluff Program

By Garry Fay, Coordinator, Walk the Bluff Program
   The “Walk the Bluff” program hopes to help you, your family and friends to walk Dayton’s Bluff regularly.  Walk the Bluff is working to make your walks more frequent, enjoyable, and safe by helping you find walking partner(s) as well as good places or trails in Dayton’s Bluff in which to walk regularly.  Our goal is to get hundreds more people out walking often – four times per week for 30 minutes.  You and your group chose when and where to walk.  The Walk the Bluff program has suggestions on where and with whom you can walk.  We hope to make your walks more frequent, joyful and safe.
   Walking is healthy fun, convenient exercise as well as a simple and efficient way to get places including school, work and shopping.  One can walk off pounds and stress.  When walking one can discuss issues of the day, spy the glories of nature in action or enjoy quiet time together with family or friends. 
   Walk the Bluff can help you find a walking partner or group.  Of course, you can talk with possible partners about walking together anywhere whether it be at home, in your neighborhood, at church, at work – and lots of employers want you to walk, some even have health club medical benefits.  Try asking people that you want to see healthy, that you care about.  Ask them to walk with you.  Let others know that you (want to) walk and want them to join you. 
   If you already have a walking group or partner please share what you consider to be the best times and places on the Bluff to walk.  Your story might inspire others to walk!  Let me know about your walks and group. Please call Garry at 651-772-2075 or write Garry@DaytonsBluff.org.
   By walking our neighborhoods your eyes and ears on the street help create a safer community for all.  Prevention of undesirable activities often happens just because someone is there.  Both the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council and Blue Cross Blue Shield are funding the Walk the Bluff program to make our neighborhoods a better place to live, work and raise a family.
   We have maps and lists of walking places both indoors and out in our parks as well as some interesting tours in our neighborhood.  Where can you walk?  Who can walk?  How can you find a walking partner or group?  If you have questions we can help.  Do you want to talk to someone about where to walk?    If you have questions call Garry at 651-772-2075 or  email Garry@DaytonsBluff.org.

Church Directory

Amazing Grace Assembly of God
1237 Earl St.
651-778-1768    
Sun 9:30 am - Sunday school all ages
Sun 10:30 am - morning Worship
Sun 6:00 pm - evening Worship

Hmong Asbury United Methodist  
815 Frank St.  
651-771-0077

Bethlehem Lutheran Church  
655 Forest St.  
651-776-4737
Sun 9:00 am - Morning Service
Sun 10:15-11:15 am - Sunday School & Bible Hour
Sun 11:15 - Hmong Service

Faith Temple - Templo De Fe
1510 Payne Ave
651-778-0096
Sun 10:30 am - Spanish Bilingual Service
Sun 6:00 pm – Spanish Bilingual Service
Wednesday family night

First Lutheran Church ELCA
463 Maria 
St. Paul, MN 55106
651-776-7210
1 block North of Metropolitan State University
Sun 8:00 am – Free Community Breakfast
9:30 am, - Worship service
Sun 10:45 am - Education for all ages
Handicapped accessible
ALL ARE WELCOME!

Mounds Park United Methodist 
1049 Euclid St. 
651-774-8736
9:15 am -  Sunday School, 4-year-old through Adult
10:30 am - Worship

Our Savior’s Lutheran  ‘LCMS’
674 Johnson Pkwy 
651-774-2396
Sun only - 8am Worship, 9:20 education hour
Sun 10:45am - Worship

Sacred Heart Catholic Church  
840 E. 6th St.  
651-776-2741
Sat 4:00 pm – Mass
Sun 9:00 am – Mass
Mon, Wed, Fri 8:00 am – Weekday Service

St. John’s Catholic Church
977 E. 5th St.  
651-771-3690  
Mon-Sat. 8:00 am – Mass
Sat 4:15 pm - Mass
Sun 9:00 am, 11:00 am - Mass

St. John’s Church of God in Christ  
1154 E. 7th St.  
651-771-7639
Sun 9:30 am - Sunday School
Sun 11:00 am - Worship
Wed 7:00 pm - Bible Study

St. John Ev. Lutheran  
765 Margaret St.
651-771-6406
Sun 9:30 am - Worship
Thurs 6:30 pm - Worship

Worship times are subject to change.  Please call ahead to confirm.

Greetings from the Community Council
Water Waranka

By Walter Waranka, President, Dayton’s Bluff Community Council
   I just wanted to drop a quick note to say hello and briefly introduce myself to you.  I have recently been given the privilege to serve as the President of the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council for the next year.
   I have been a resident of Saint Paul since moving here eleven years ago from Wisconsin.  I have really enjoyed it all.  During this time I have been working as an employment consultant and have volunteered with many groups and organizations.  I have had many opportunities to serve these groups and organizations.  I have been a member, a board member and served as an officer and enjoyed it very much.
   I have been a resident of Dayton’s Bluff for four years and enjoy the neighborhood very much.  Two years ago I was elected to the Community Council and now am beginning my third year as your newly elected President.  I will do the best to keep Dayton’s Bluff moving in the right direction and I am always open to listening to any of your concerns or issues.  I want to encourage all of you to attend a meeting (or more), so you can get a first-hand idea what your Community Council does.
   The Community Council is comprised of many individuals who all believe in the neighborhood and want to do their best to serve.  But we do need and welcome your input.  I look forward to the coming year and I will do my best to represent Dayton’s Bluff.

New Winter Carnival West Wind Princess from Dayton's Bluff

By Steve Trimble
   Marie Scheffer, the 1886 Queen of St. Paul’s first Winter Carnival, was a resident of Dayton’s Bluff. And recently another young women, who has lived her whole life with her mother and brother on Mounds Boulevard, also became a member of the Winter Carnival royal family.

Princess of the West Wind Ellen Edwards
and her grandfather Red Roberts

   Ellen Edwards was crowned Princess of the West Wind at the frigid  2007 coronation on Harriet Island. She was recently kind enough to spend some time out from her work in the pharmacy at the East Side Target store on Suburban Avenue to talk about her background and her experiences as part of one of St. Paul’s oldest celebrations.
    “I’ve lived in Mounds Park on St. Paul’s East Side my entire life,” Ellen said.  “As kids we used to walk up the hill to the tennis courts, ride our bikes to Dayton’s Bluff Recreation Center for softball, and we would sit on the park bench across the street from our house to look at the view—it’s the most beautiful view in all of St. Paul.”
     Our perky Princess went to St. Paul’s Adams Spanish Immersion Magnet school and was a member of the 2001 high school graduating class at Cretin-Derham Hall. After earning a degree from Bemidji State University, she said “I decided to get involved and to re-connect with the area I grew up in after I had been away to college.”
    The buoyant Bluffer was encouraged to get involved in the Winter Carnival by her grandmother. There was a family connection. Her grandfather Red Roberts was part of the King Boreas court many years ago. Each candidate is sponsored by a different business or organization. Once again there was a family connection as her sponsor was Windy Hill Auto Parts in New London, owned by her uncle.
    The dozen or so candidates had to study up on the history of the Winter Carnival and its traditions. They attended many events throughout the Twin Cities even before the coronation. There were judges at events that observed how they handled themselves and represented the Winter Carnival; however,  their identity was kept hidden for a while.
    Then a little before the Carnival opened, there were a series of interviews with the hopeful candidates. The judges asked each one standard questions meant to find out why each young woman wanted to be involved and what they felt they could contribute.
   There were also “fish bowl” questions that were drawn out randomly for individuals. They were often a little off-the-wall and designed to see how a person handled themselves in a quick response manner. “If you were on Americans Idol, what song would you pick to sing?” for instance.
   As part of the 2007 Royal Family they went to schools and nursing homes to visit with the children and residents. While there, Ellen explained, they would  “knight” people into the “Realm of Boreas”  At every school, she related, “Our 2007 King Boreas always tells the kids ‘working hard in your life will make you happy and successful.’”
   Throughout the coming year, Ellen and the other members of the Winter Carnival royal family will go to various local events and take trips to various festivals outside the state. In fact, when last seen, Ellen was getting ready to go to an event in Winnipeg, a Canadian city that, unfortunately, is usually ten to fifteen degrees colder than the Twin Cities.
   Ellen Edwards is glad she decided to take her grandmother’s advice and carry on a family tradition. She was hoping it would be fun but, as she said, “It’s been a blast!” It was a learning opportunity and a chance to serve the community. “It exceeded all of my expectations,” she stated. As the new Princess of the West Winds remarked, “Doing this makes me happy and makes me feel successful, so I know that this is what I am supposed to be doing.”

ECFE Children Play Post Office

   Good programs for very young children always provide many opportunities for them to grow socially and emotionally, to practice using their large and small muscles, and to work on the thinking skills they will need for school success.  During the month of February, the Dayton’s Bluff Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) Program used a focus on the U. S. Postal Service to help children develop skills in all of these areas through play.

   Parts of both children’s room were dedicated to “mail” themes.  In addition to the usual materials, the infant toddler room had postcards to examine, bags to carry letters to the mailbox, whole table tops covered in paper so kids could make their scribble marks, the earliest form of writing. 
   A large area in the preschool room became the “Post Office.”  There were stamps to buy, envelopes, stationery, pens, pencils, a big red and blue collection mail box “on the corner” and mail boxes at several “homes” where mail could be delivered.  Children could wear postal uniforms and hats and use mailbags to carry the mail. 
   Manipulative materials in the room included puzzles around the post office theme.  The small block area was enhanced with post office vehicles and small postal worker dolls.  There were many books about mail – both nonfiction descriptions of the ways letters are processed through the mail and imaginative stories about letters being sent and received. One they recommend is “Never Mail an Elephant”.
   Because children’s developing reading, writing, and math skills are most solidly learned in a context which gives them meaning, we took advantage of the Valentine’s Day holiday to help children understand that writing turns spoken language into words on paper and tells other people who cannot hear our voices what we want to say to them
   Every preschooler who was in school the week before Valentine’s Day choose a classmate to send a Valentine post card to.  They decorated the card as they wished and, with the help of a parent, addressed it to their friend.  They then bought a real US Postal Service stamp in our “post office” and mailed it in the collection box.  Teachers made sure every child in the preschool class received a postcard at their home from a friend at school.  This built children’s understanding of the process of sending and receiving mail, while strengthening their social connections with each other. Some children also “mailed” letters to their parents by slipping them under the parent room door and were thrilled to have their parents slip return mail back to them.
   Part of the post office curriculum included discussions with parents about the stages children go through as they go from scribbling and making letter-like marks to picture writing to pretend writing to beginning use of letters to communicate meaning.  They also noticed developmental differences in children’s ability to recognize and name letters of the alphabet.  They helped their kids count stickers to decorate postcards and reinforced the idea of using money to buy a stamp in the post office.

Report Graffiti, Stop Graffiti

   There has been an increase of graffiti in many parts of Dayton’s Bluff in recent weeks. Community members need to help stop graffiti. The way to help stop it is to report it when you see it.
   If the graffiti is on your property call the police at 651-291-1111 and ask that a report be written.
   Also report graffiti that you see on other people’s property and public property. Call 651-266-8989 or email citizen.service@ci.stpaul.mn.us   Remember graffiti is a crime.  The police department takes this crime very seriously and is very aggressive in identifying and arresting graffiti vandals for their crimes. Often young people are the perpetrators.
   Many parents have no idea that their children are involved in these crimes nor are they aware of the indicators of graffiti vandal activity.
   Parents should:
· Check children’s backpacks for markers and/or spray paint, as well as sketch books, pieces of paper with graffiti “tags” on them aerosol can caps and/or nozzles, white shoe polish and photographs of graffiti pieces/murals.
· Check school papers for graffiti “tags” and/or sketches of murals.
· Know who your children are hanging out with and make sure they are home at curfew time. Curfew times are: 10 pm for ages 15 or younger; midnight for ages 16-17.
   Graffiti is not an art; it’s a crime. Neighborhood residents get very upset about seeing graffiti in the neighborhood. For more information email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org  or call Karin at 651-772-2075.

Volunteer Editor Needed!

   A volunteer editor is needed for the print edition of this paper.  Pagemaker experience is a plus.  Call Karin at 651-772-2075.

Dayton's Bluff Rec Center March and April Activities

Dayton’s Bluff Community Recreation Center
800 Conway St.     651.793-3885
Director: Jody Griffin
jody.griffin@ci.stpaul.n.us

Winter Program (Jan.- March 2007 Events & Activities)  Stop by the center to pick up your copy or visit us on line at www.ci.stpaul.gov/depts/parks 
Spring / Summer Program (April-August) will be out in the middle of March. 

SUMMER SPORTS REGISTRATION  Mickey Mouse T-Ball, T-Ball, Nearball, Baseball, Softball; April 2-13; Ages 3-18; Registration forms available April 2.
PARENT TOT PLAY TIME - Mon., Wed., Fri.’s; 10 am-12 pm; Free; Ages 0-5
SENIOR CARDS – 500 Friday’s; 12:30-4 pm; Fee: $2 weekly fee for the kitty.
ADULT LUNCH TIME VOLLEYBALL & BASKETBALL Thursday’s    11 am-1 pm; $1 / week; On-going.  No children allowed.
SPRING BREAK KIDS DANCE  Thurs., Apr. 5; 5:30-8:30 pm    Gr. 5-8; $3
CRIBBAGE  Looking to start a new group.  Call if interested.  Adult/Seniors; Tuesday’s; 12-3 pm; .50 per week; 10 wks
TEENS CLUB - The group meets on Tuesday & Thursday’s from 5-7 pm.; Free; New members wanted.
ADULT CO-ED VOLLEYBALL  Friday’s; 6-8:45 pm; $1 / week
INFANT / CHILD CPR COURSE  Wed., Mar. 7/14; 5:30-9 pm; $45; 2 ses.
SAFE ON MY OWN CLASS  Mon., Mar. 12; 5:30-7:30 pm; Ages 8-11; $17
SPRING PARTY  Thurs., Mar. 29; 5:30-6:30 pm; Ages 12 & under; Free
JUDO FOR TOTS  Sat., Mar. 3; 10:30-12 pm; Ages 4-6 pm; $20; 4 ses.; Sat.,  Apr. 7; 10:30-12 pm; Ages 4-6 pm; $20; 4 ses.
JUDO  Sat., Mar. 3; 12-2 pm; Ages 7-12; $20; Sat., Apr. 7; 12-2 pm; Ages 7-12 pm; $20; 4 ses.
1st AID & ADULT CPR  Tues., April 17/24; 5:30-8:30 pm; $?; 2 ses.
FAMILY SELF DEFENSE CLASS  Wed., April 18; 6-7:30 pm; Families; $60/family; 8 ses.
GONE FISHING  Thurs., April 26; 2:30-4:30 pm; Ages 6-13; Free
KICKBOXING  Tues., May 1; 6:30-7:30 pm; $45; 6 ses.

FIELD TRIPS
Parent Permission slips are required.  Must register prior to trip.  Youth under the age listed are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
SWIM, GYM & A MOVIE  Ages 8 & up; Fri., Mar. 9; 9 am-3:30 pm; $7
ROLLERSKATING AT WOODDALE  Ages 9 & up; Wed., Apr. 4; 12:30-3:30 pm; $9                                           

Young Artists Initiative to Premiere Disney's Mulan Live

By Nathaniel Churchill
   Students from Saint Paul’s East Side are busy rehearsing their big premiere!  The East Side’s own Young Artists Initiative (YAI) was proud to be chosen as the first theater company to present a full-scale stage production of Disney’s Mulan. 
    The show was originally work-shopped at the North Shore Music Theater in Beverly, Massachusetts, and YAI is thrilled to be the first company to be granted the opportunity to offer audiences a fully realized stage production. Disney’s Mulan is part of Music Theater International’s “Junior” series, which adapts hit musicals and arranges the music to make it more accessible for young performers. 
   The story takes audience members back in time to ancient China were the Huns have invaded and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick dragon, Mushu, to save the Emperor.  It is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and fighting spirit.  For those who are fans of the original film, the stage adaptation features all their favorites like “Reflection,” “Honor to Us All” and “I’ll Make a Man Out of You.” 
   Benjamin Lacina, a former Saint Paul Public Schools music specialist, is the director of the production and a big fan of the original film. He was particularly drawn to this show because of the positive role model that Mulan can be to young girls. Lacina added, “We hope that this show will empower young girls on Saint Paul’s East Side and help them see that they can make a difference.”
   YAI believes that the arts should be accessible to all young people regardless of their race, beliefs or economic status.  Young Artists Initiative offices and classrooms are located within First Lutheran Church.
   Performances are March 16th through March 25th and are taking place at the beautiful Neighborhood House Theater located within the Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center, 179 Robie Street East, Saint. Paul, MN 55107-2360.  Ticket prices are family friendly at only $8 for adults and $4 for students/seniors.  If you would like specific show times, to order tickets or to learn more call the YAI Information Line at 651-222-KIDS or explore their website at www.youngartistsmn.org.

At the Mounds Theatre

Myth of Xee

  CHAT (Center for Hmong Arts and Talent) and the Portage for Youth have worked collaboratively with a group of Hmong youth to produce the MYTH OF XEE to be staged live at the Mounds Theatre on March 2-4.  It is directed by A. Yang and Katie Vang.  The public is invited to this live stage production.
   MYTH OF XEE is a fictional portrayal of the first Hmong female guerilla solder.  The play raises questions about stories that might have been overlooked or never told.
   “I think there were woman soldiers because of the stories that my mom told me. It seems like the women had to fight and run from the war too, but they just weren’t called soldiers,” explained one of the students, Lee Vang, 14, when asked if he believed there were really female Hmong soldiers.
   CHAT’s Art Saves Us program is an after school arts program for youth to be introduced and engaged in different art forms. The Creative Drama class began in October 2006 and has met three times every week to work on character development, props, set, sound and costume design for the staging of MYTH OF XEE.   
   With an all Hmong youth cast, MYTH OF XEE was written by the Live to Inspire team made possible by CHAT’S Art Save us Program and the Portage for Youth.
Where:
   MOUNDS THEATRE
   1029 Hudson Road
   Saint Paul, MN  55106
When:
   March 2nd and 3rd at 8 p.m.
   March 4th at 2 p.m.
Tickets:
   $5.00 General Admission
   For ticket info  contact Kathy at 651-603-6971 or kathy@aboutchat.org.

Portage for Youth Summer Camps

EXPLORE – LEARN - CREATE

   The Portage for Youth will launch a new summer camp program this year featuring classes in drama, dance, music, mosaic art, photography and video.  Seven week-long sessions will begin June 18th and run through August 17th.  Morning, afternoon and full day options are available.  The program is open to girls and boys, ages 8 to 13 or 13 to 18 years old. 
   Activities will take place at the Mounds Theatre building located at 1029 Hudson Road in Saint Paul.  Application deadline is May 1st or until all sessions are filled.

SUMMER CAMP FEES
$110 – per week/per child – 1/2 days (morning OR afternoon)
$200 – Per week/per child-full days (morning AND afternoon). 
Morning classes are from 9am to noon and afternoon classes are from 1 to 4pm.  Some scholarships are available.
   You may register online at www.theportage.org, or you may call and get an information packet and registration form sent to your home. For registration packets and/or more information, please call 651-772-8674 or 651-772-2253.

The following Summer Camp sessions are available:

SESSION 1: June 18-22
Theatre 9am-noon; Dance (ages 8-12) 1-4pm or Mosaic Art 1-4pm   
SESSION 2: June 25-29
Theatre 9am-noon; Dance (ages 13-18) 1-4pm or Video Production (ages 9-15) 1-4pm or Mosaic Art 1-4pm
SESSION 3: July 9-13
Theatre 9am-noon; Dance (ages 8-12) 1-4pm or Photography (ages 9-15) 1-4pm or Mosaic Art 1-4pm
SESSION 4: July 16-20
Theatre 9am-noon; Dance (ages 13-18) 1-4pm or Photography (ages 9-15) 1-4pm or Mosaic Art 1-4pm
SESSION 5: July 23-27
Theatre 9am-noon; Dance (ages 8-12) 1-4pm or Video Production (ages 9-15) 1-4pm or Mosaic Art 1-4pm
SESSION 6: Aug 6-10
Theatre 9am-noon; Dance (ages 13-18) 1-4pm or Mosaic Art 1-4pm
SESSION 7: Aug 13-17
Theatre 9am-noon; Dance (ages 8-12) 1-4pm or Mosaic Art 1-4pm

True West

  Coming off their highly successful run of Amadeus, Starting Gate Productions’ next play at the Mounds Theatre will be True West. 
   A showdown between brothers for dominance and understanding injects this brutal comedy with the tension of a gunfight. True West was written by Sam Shepard and is being directed by Bryan Bevell
Where:
   Mounds Theatre
   1029 Hudson Road
   St. Paul, MN 55106
When:
   March 23 - April 15, 2007
   Friday & Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.
   and Sundays at 2:00 p.m.
Tickets:
  All tickets are $18; $16 for seniors and students. Call 651-645-3503 or  go to www.startinggate.org.

Whose Hands Keep the Village?

By Ed Lambert
   February is Black History month in the United States.  The shortest, coldest, month of the year in Minnesota brings many occasions in the Twin Cities to learn about Black History; and to celebrate it as well.  The annual Soul Food Dinner at Metropolitan State University (MSU) is one of the most interesting and joyful such occasions.  This year’s took place in the Great Hall of MSU where some 200 people were served catfish, fried turkey, and other delicious items on Friday, the ninth of February.

George Rice III and Darcell Hill at Metropolitan State’s
annual Soul Food Dinner

   The diners were also treated to a number of entertaining and powerful performances, including an “a cappella” rendition of the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”  After dinner, most adjourned to the Founder’s Hall for more performances, and to view a remarkable photo and text display of Black History in the United States.  I was struck by the richness of the display, and the realization that there is a lot to Black History that many of us do not know.
   The Keynote Address, “Black History: Learning it, Living it, Loving it,” was presented by George Rice III.  He is a sought-after speaker and educator who, as a Curator of Energy, believes that education is not about training people to answer questions a certain way, but rather empowering people to ask questions that most dare not ask.  He was very effective, innovative, and compelling, even from the very beginning as he approached the podium. 
   After he was introduced, we heard a voice singing but could not tell from where.  It was Rice, who slowly approached the podium while strolling through the crowd and singing about joy, acceptance, and coming forward to live your life for something greater than yourself.  I have heard many speakers, but have never seen this innovative entrance before.  He then launched into a powerful and inspiring talk that reached us all with its clarity and insight. 
   He reminded us that we are all “Keepers of the Village,” and must ask ourselves “in whose hands, if not ours, is the keeping in?”  How are you ‘gonna use YOUR hands?  He left us all concerned about what we are NOT doing to help Keep Our Village.  I’ll be there next year to get a fresh dose of inspiration, and insight, about all of Us… as a People…don’t miss it!   Some ten groups worked on this event led by the African American Student Association, among others at Metropolitan State University.

Dayton's Bluff Preservation Evening

 We need your help with this event. We are asking residents to bring their stories, pictures, picture boards, scrap books, etc. on big and little home repair projects to share. Last year residents brought photos, picture boards, and stories about kitchen, bathroom, porch, and whole house projects. Email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org or call Karin at 651-772-2075 if you can help or for more information.
   Do you want to learn more about repairing and preserving your home? Curious about your house’s history? We are planning our third annual Dayton’s Bluff Preservation Evening on April 26th. from 6:30 to 8p.m. The event will take place in the Ecolab Community Room, third floor of Metropolitan State University/Dayton’s Bluff Library, just west of the intersection of Seventh and Maria
   Come and hear about historically sympathetic home preservation and repair.
   Dayton’s Bluff has a historic district, and many beautiful homes are in all parts of Dayton’s Bluff. Neighbors have had extensive experience preserving and repairing their homes. Some of these neighbors will be on hand to speak about their homes and show before and after images.
   If you have a historic home you want to preserve and research and don’t know where to start, you can learn about researching your home and its previous owners. Hear from experts in the field, who offer technical advice, assessment, and hard-to-find classes such as historic masonry.
   Metropolitan State’s Center for Community-Based Learning, Dayton’s Bluff District 4 Community Council, and the Dayton’s Bluff Branch of the St. Paul Public Library are co-sponsoring the event. For more information, call Rebecca Ryan at 651-793-1296.

Touring Dayton's Bluff by Foot and Car

  A surprising number of people informally visit Dayton’s Bluff each year to tour the neighborhood, drive by the historic homes, and visit the parks.  Last November we had two folks show up at the District Council office from Bloomington who intended to do just that.  Cathy Berg and her mother Katie Rouse had learned about Dayton’s Bluff by viewing a TPT “Hands on History” show featuring Dayton’s Bluff, along with two other communities.
   Cathy had never heard of Dayton’s Bluff and was intrigued enough to visit our web site www.daytonsbluff.org to learn more.  As it turned out, the site was down at the time but she did get contact information for the District Council Office.  On November 5th she and Katie visited the office to get some maps and historic site information for their tour.  That day they spent three hours here, had lunch at the Swede Hollow Café (they said it was excellent), and drove by about 20 sites.  They stopped at each to read the material we gave them about it, and then moved on to the next.
   Next month we are expecting a tour group from Eau Claire, Wisconsin to bring a busload of folks to tour the district and have lunch here.  They might even tour some homes whose owners are available on the Saturday they arrive.  Like Cathy, they saw something in the newspaper or on TV that got them to look closer.  Looking closer lead to making a visit, and then to coming back.  Cathy, her mom, and several friends will also be back to finish their tour in April or May.
   Our web site has a load of information about the community, its history, and the Historic District; as well as maps and photos of several walking and driving tours one can take.  You can also find info, maps, and photos about the parks, business districts, and plans for the future here.  You may have heard about Carver’s Cave, but what do you know about Montana Bill’s Cave? 
   Touring Dayton’s Bluff is as easy as opening your Internet browser, or getting in your car with maps and photographs that you can print off www.daytonsbluff.org.  Go to the Culture and History link on the home page and take a tour yourself.  Encourage your friends to do the same.  It can bring people here who learn about our community and want to come back.  A lot more than St. Paul is looking up to (checking into?) Dayton’s Bluff.

Magnet School Playground in the Making

   The American Indian Magnet and World Cultures Magnet are working together to improve their school playground. Both schools are in the old Harding High building on 3rd and Earl. The playground that is there now was installed in 1993 and is too small.  It needs to be upgraded and expanded. Both schools have 330 students making a total of 660 in the building. Both are Magnet schools that have students who attend from all cultures and live everywhere in the St. Paul school district. They have been in the building since 1990.
   Our school has a long history on the East Side. It was built in 1934 and first used as Harding High School.  After the new Harding was built our school became Mounds Park Jr. High.  This was in 1965. The building was closed and used for storage until it was renovated in 1990 and our schools began in 1991.
   The cost of a new playground is an estimated $120,000. No school funds can be used for the playground.  All funds must be raised by grants, donation and fund raising. The schools are asking all businesses in the Dayton’s Bluff area to contribute.
   Our schools will be having a Silent Auction on April 26 and would like business and private donations. This is a great way to promote your business and also a great way to find a deal at the same time. The Silent Auction is open to the community. It will be an evening of fun. A Foods of All Nations buffet will be served for $3.00 a person. There will be entertainment in the gym and over 150 items to bid on. The items include a Vikings football, art prints, jewelry, and also many family fun coupons as well as lots of other surprises. We look forward to a great night of fun.
   There will be no childcare or children’s activities available. Please call us at the school for more information, 651-778-3100 and ask for Donna.

Report Recycling Theft

   The Dayton’s Bluff Community Council has received a number of calls from neighbors reporting that people are stealing aluminum cans from recycling bins. It is against the law to steal cans from recycling bins. If you see someone stealing call the Police 291-1111 let them know where it is happening and give a description of the people taking the cans. Also email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org or call Karin at 651-772-2075 and let us know where the theft is happening.

 Copper Pipe Theft is a Growing Crime

   All over the city there has been a rash of break-ins into vacant homes and buildings and even occupied apartment buildings where the copper piping including gas lines is stolen.
    In several cases the gas was on which resulted in serious gas leaks. These gas leaks could easily be ignited into a explosion that could destroy the entire building. The price of copper is up, which makes stealing and selling it appealing to thieves.
   If you see unusual activity around homes or buildings or smell gas call 911.
   All vacant homes and buildings should be secure without any open or broken doors or windows and the snow and ice should be removed from sidewalks. If there are problems call 651-266-8989 or email citizen.service@ci.stpaul.mn.us.

Neighbors Succeed in Closing Unwanted Corner Store

By Martin Russo
   Clerk:  “What can I get for you?”
   Customer:  “Let’s see.  I need milk, eggs, and bread.  Oh yeah, and throw in a crack pipe, some papers, and a bong.”
   Thankfully, this is one conversation that will not happen again in our neighborhood grocery store.
   Thanks to the grass-roots efforts of several folks in the Mounds Park neighborhood, Adam’s Market, located at the corner of Burns Avenue and Earl street, has closed.  And anyone interested in selling drug paraphernalia will not be able to operate at that spot again. 
   A group of neighbors, upset with the latest incarnation of what was once a nice, little neighborhood grocery store, met a few times about the problem, and documented their concerns.  It became clear that no one (at least those neighbors attending the meetings) felt comfortable with the kind of store Adams Market had become
   Thanks to a violation of the existing non-conforming use permit (interestingly not even related to the drug paraphernalia issue) the neighborhood group, along with city code inspectors, asked the planning commission to have a public hearing about Adam’s Market.  That meeting took place in city hall on January 4, 2007.  Before the hearing, the neighborhood group met again and clearly defined what restrictions they thought should be placed on the current (and any future) commercial tenants of the building
   At the hearing, the business owner and the neighbors were able to express their opinions about the issue, and the planning commission ultimately approved new non-conforming use permit restrictions (see below). 
   Just another example of the power of like-minded neighbors!

The New Code:

   NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Saint Paul Planning Commission, under the authority of the City’s Legislative Code, that the Re-establishment of Nonconforming Use Permit approved in Zoning File # 99-178351 for a grocery and carry-out restaurant at 241 Earl St is hereby re-approved for a grocery only (carry-out restaurant deleted) and modified with the following conditions:
   1. The sale of tobacco products at this store shall comply with Chapter 324 of the legislative code and shall be limited to packaged cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and lighters.  No other tobacco accessories shall be sold at this store. 
   2. None of the following items shall be sold at the store:  Diluents and adulterants; separation gins and sifters; hypodermic syringes or needles; metal, wooden, acrylic, glass, stone, plastic or ceramic pipes; permanent screens, hashish heads or punctured metal bowls; water pipes; carburetion tubes and devices; smoking and carburetion masks; roach clips; miniature cocaine spoons, and cocaine vials; chamber pipes; carburetor pipes; electric pipes; air-driven pipes; chillums; bongs; and ice pipes or chillers. 
   3. No drug paraphernalia shall be sold.
   4. No individual razor blades or portions of opened packages of razor blades shall be sold.
   5. The sale of blunts and single cigarettes is prohibited at this store, and tobacco products must be sold in the original packaging, as per §324.07 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code.
   6. The store hours shall be no earlier than 8 a.m. and no later than 9 p.m.
   7. There shall be no permanent or affixed temporary exterior signs that advertise products.  All other signage shall comply with provisions of §64.640, Dayton’s Bluff special district sign plan.
   8. There shall be no flashing lights or signs in store windows.
   9. No pay telephone shall be installed on the exterior of the store.
   10. The rear portion of the lot shall be paved to provide off-street parking.  The lot shall be paved in accordance with a site plan approved by city staff no later than June 4, 2007. At site plan review, site plan review staff must ensure that the site plan adequately addresses issues related to rubbish and other waste disposal for the tenants of the building.
   11. Indoor and outdoor trash receptacles shall be located near the main entrance of the store and shall be regularly emptied. 
   12. This nonconforming use permit shall be reviewed by the zoning administrator for compliance at one (1) year from the date of the approval of this modified permit.

Students' Artwork Chosen for Exhibit

   Two students from Dayton’s Bluff Achievement Plus Elementary School had their artwork exhibited at the Ordway Theater in downtown St. Paul. 
   The display was part of the welcoming reception for Superintendent Dr. Carstarphen, sponsored by Saint Paul Public Schools’ Arts for All organization.
   The two students were Naly from Ms. Melas’ fourth grade class and Rafael, a sixth grader in Mr. Stanek’s class.

Rafael’s portrait (above) is marker on paper.  The portrait was done in Art Class.  Another student was the model.
Naly’s still life  (below) was created with pencil, and colored pencils on paper.  It is her shoe.  She says the colorful background makes the shoe stand out.


Community Council Update on Recent Real Estate Activity

936 East 6th St.
   The building at 936 East 6th Street was sold to Alex Haug, owner of Twin Cities Tee’s, a company that will be using the building for production of silk-screened and embroidered tee shirts. Back in November before purchasing the building Alex met with the local block club and talked with the neighbors about his plans for the building. The neighbors were supportive and Alex moved forward with his plans.
   Alex has been working with the East 7th Street/Dayton’s Bluff Façade Improvement Program making necessary repairs and upgrades to the building.   Alex is an alumni of the Microentrepreneur Training and Support Program and was voted an Entrepreneur of the Year of the program in 2005. Dayton’s Bluff offers this class to any East Side businessperson or resident in the spring and fall of each year.

869 East 5th St.
   Victory Through Faith, Inc. who has the Micah Halfway house in Minneapolis wanted to open another halfway house at 869 East 5th Street, the former convent at Sacred Heart Church. They have been running the Minneapolis program for the last 2 ½ years and from all reports they run an excellent program in Minneapolis.  They planned to start with 26 clients and go up to 40 in the future.
   The local block club, many neighborhood residents, Sacred Heart Church, and Trinity Elementary School were less than supportive about the halfway house moving into the old convent building. Some of the concerns included: the school/community tot lot is located next door; the effect the halfway house would have on the elementary school because many parents said they will take their children out of the school if the halfway house went in; there is already a high concentration of recovery facilities in the area; the lack of parking in the area; and its effect on property values.
   The Zoning Committee of the Planning Commission passed a resolution to deny the Conductional Use Permit 7 – 0.  The full Planning Commission unanimously denied the Conductional Use Permit.

Hamm’s Brewery
   The Asian Pacific Cultural Center has received tentative developer status from the city to re-use a portion of the southern buildings at Hamm’s Brewery. They received $400,000 from the state to work on the planning process and raise funds to redevelop the buildings. They plan to put in a theatre, banquet area, library, gift shop, classrooms and offices. They will be doing design work and raising funds for the construction over the next year.

378 Maria Ave.
378 Maria Café at 6th and Maria (formerly POP’s Café) is under new management. It’s new phone number is 651-776-7000.

Arts and Culture Committee Events

   The Arts and Culture Committee of the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council has scheduled a number of events over the months to come.
*Thursday, March 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the 378 Maria Café, corner of 6th and Maria. Author/Reporter  Don Boxmeyer.  In 2003 Don wrote A Knack for Knowing Things Stories from St. Paul Neighborhoods and he has written years of articles about St. Paul in the Pioneer Press.
* Thursday, April 26 at 6:30 pm is the   Dayton’s Bluff Preservation Evening.
* Thursday, May 24: Dayton’s Bluff Library 125th Anniversary. Author/Historian Larry Millet will be on hand and walk with Historian Steve Trimble and neighbors on a short walking tour of  the Lower Bluff.  
* Thursday, June 28: Historian Steve Trimble will talk on Dayton’s Bluff History
   If you are interested in joining the Arts and Culture Committee or need more information email Karin@DaytonsBluff.org or call Karin at 651-772-2075.

The Prosperity's Campaign's Multi-Cultural Resource Fair

   The East Side Neighborhood Development Company (ESNDC) announces a new three-year initiative called the “Prosperity Campaign” with funding from the Otto Bremer Foundation.  A grand opening multicultural celebration will take place on Saturday, March 24, 2007 from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Hmong American Partnership Building at 1075 Arcade Street in St. Paul.  All are invited to this community resource fair featuring food, entertainment and networking opportunities.  Metropolitan State University President William Bradshaw will offer remarks about our community vision.
    The Prosperity Campaign will use community organizing, networking and marketing strategies to connect East Side residents and business in creating and sustaining community and personal wealth.  These opportunities will develop awareness about community challenges—safety, poverty, isolation; connect people to programs; and inspire residents to take action and achieve their wealth creation goals.  The campaign is designed to equip residents with the skills needed to earn living wage jobs, escape poverty and elevate their overall standard of living.  The major components of the Prosperity Campaign are to create a “pipe-line” of existing and new opportunities and services to the East Side.
    This Campaign is necessary because 19% of all residents and 27% of our children are living at-or-below the poverty level.  78% qualify for free or reduced-price school lunch (compared to the St. Paul average of 65%).  The Payne/Phalen Lake community has more participants in the Minnesota Family Investment Plan (MFIP) and more families in federally subsidized Section 8 housing than any other neighborhood in Ramsey County.
   To combat our community challenges, join East Side residents, businesses, clergy members, schools and non-profits at the March 24th Multi-Cultural Resource Fair and discover the many trainings and products that are coming to the East Side.  Enroll in homeownership classes, debt counseling services, small business classes, youth programs, and leadership development courses on-the-spot or just get information for your future.
   Mari Bongiovanni, new executive director of ESNDC, is excited about the Prosperity Campaign’s broader perspective of community development. According to Bongiovanni, “Wealth can be evidenced by something as simple as the number of relationships formed in our own neighborhood by those who have been isolated by fear, or by more traditional measures of home ownership, education, jobs, entrepreneurship, leadership and youth development and financial literacy.”  These measures are a perfect fit with ESNDC’s mission: To create wealth and well-being in a multicultural neighborhood.
   For more information, contact: Mari Bongiovanni, ESNDC’s Executive Director, mbongiovanni@esndc.org,  Phone: 651-771-1152, x106