District 1 Community Council Blog

I-35E Improvements - Meetings

2012-01-26T12:04:00.000-08:00

Next month there will be some public meetings to present information on the improvement projects planned for I-35E between Pennsylvania Avenue and Little Canada Road. One project will reconstruct the interstate from University Avenue to Maryland with a new interchange at Cayuga. Another will construct a new bridge at Maryland Avenue. The third is a MnPASS project to provide an additional lane from Pennsylvania to Little Canada Road. The meetings will cover the construction details and schedules.

The first meeting is Feb. 9 from 4-7p at Vadnais Hts. City Hall (800 E. County Road E) - the presentation will be at 6p.

The second meeting is Feb. 16 from 4-7p at Headwaters Service Center, 19955 Forest Road N. in Forest Lake with the presentation at 6p.

The third meeting will be Feb. 16 from 11a - 1p at Securian, 401 N. Robert St. in St. Paul with the presentation at noon - (not sure why Saint Paul gets such a short window in the middle of the day for its meeting, since such a large portion of the work is taking place in St. Paul... [editorial comment])

For more information visit http://www.dot.state.mn.us/cayugamnpass/index.html or contact Kent Barnard at 651.234.7504 or kent.barnard@state.mn.us. To request interpretive services call 651.366.4720.

Submitted by MnDOT (with editorial comments from D1)

Tax Prep Help at Conway and SunRay Library

2012-01-25T15:37:00.000-08:00

Once again this year, you can receive free help with filing your taxes at Conway Rec Center and the Sun Ray Library. This event is sponsored by the AARP with volunteer tax preparers.

At Conway, the help starts Wednesday, February 8 and runs every Wednesday through April 11 from 4 to 8p. For these sessions, there are no set appointments - it is first come, first served.

At Sun Ray Library, the help is by appointment only (call 651.501.6300) and starts Monday, February 6 and runs every Monday and Friday until April 13. On Mondays the appointments are between 10a and 1:30p. On Fridays, they are from 10a to 3p.

Here is what you need to bring with you...

A valid state-issued picture ID or a passport
Social security card for self and all dependents
Date of birth for self and all dependents
All government assistance info - social security, unemployment, SSDI and SSI payments
W2 form
Last year's return, if you have it

If you are claiming the Minnesota Renters Rebate you must also have a certificate of rent paid.

If you are itemizing taxes you need to bring the following:

1099-D dividend statement
1099 INT interest income statement
1098 mortgage interest statement
all info on home improvement loans
all info on student loans
receipts for medical costs, school costs and supplies, and charity donations

Non-English speakers must bring their own interpreters. These services will only do 1 year of returns per visit. And all taxes are filed electronically.

Emerald Ash Borer Meeting

2012-01-23T10:52:00.000-08:00

On Monday, February 6 from 6-8p at the Conway Rec Center, there will be a community meeting about the removal of more ash trees from our area and around the eastside during the next year.

Here is a map to show where they will be removing trees this year.

Remember that after the trees are removed, they will be replaced by alternative species and homeowners will be instructed how to care for them. Since it has been so dry, keeping the trees well watered will be especially important this year - not just for these new ones but for the ones planted last year, too.

Home Ownership Classes to Prepare for those Responsibilities

2012-01-18T12:54:00.000-08:00

The Community Neighborhood Housing Services of Saint Paul is offering a series of classes in both English and Hmong about how to prepare for home ownership. These are homebuyer education classes that include how to prepare financially, how credit affects becoming a homeowner, understanding mortgage programs, shopping for a home, home inspections, the closing process, home maintenance, and understanding predatory lending practices. There is also discussion of how to avoid foreclosure.

These classes cost $35 but scholarships are available. To register call 651.292.8710 or go to www.communitynhs.org. There are scholarships available. Classes are available starting in January and going into June. Dates are listed on the D1 web calendar

Message from State Representative Sheldon Johnson

2012-01-17T11:23:00.000-08:00

With the 2012 legislative session set to start on January 24th, I'd like to provide you with a preview of topics expected to come up this year.

Jobs and the economy: While there are signs that Minnesota is slowly pulling out of the recession there are still 175,000 Minnesotans out of work and middle class families are struggling to make ends meet. This is why job growth is my top priority for the 2012 legislative session.

The budget: The December 1st budget forecast showed an unexpected $876 million surplus. It is unclear if the surplus will still exist when the forecast is updated in February. If we have surplus, state law directs that it be used to replenish the state's budget reserve and its cash flow account.

Bonding for public works: A primary focus of each even-year legislative sessions is to pass a bonding for construction projects, such as repairs and improvements to roads and bridges, wastewater systems, flood mitigation, and fixing buildings on college campuses. I am advocating for a much-needed Science building at Metro State University.

Property tax relief/reform: Soaring local property taxes have placed property taxes high on the agenda. Homeowners are reeling from property tax increases that resulted from the elimination of the Market Value Homestead Credit (I strongly opposed getting rid of the Homestead Credit.)

Constitutional amendments: A constitutional amendment to prohibit same sex marriage has already been put on the ballot for November 2012. This issue may come up again in the 2012 session. A proposal to require a photo ID to vote will also likely be proposed as a constitutional amendment this session.

Vikings stadium: Based on the amount of media coverage this issue receives, I believe a stadium debate will take up some of the 2012 legislature's time but I am unsure if it will be resolved.

Health insurance marketplace: There is a proposal to set up an exchange where small businesses and individuals can shop for health insurance.

K-12 school payment shift: Undoing an unpopular accounting shift that was used to address a portion of the state budget deficit last year could be attempted.

Redistricting: Following each census, legislative districts are redrawn. The new district maps being formed by a judicial panel are to be made public in late February.

As I prepare for the upcoming session, I welcome your input on these or any other legislative issues. Feel free to email me at rep.sheldon.johnson@house.mn, call me at (651) 296-4201.

January is Radon Awareness Month

2012-01-17T11:21:00.000-08:00

Do you know that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S.? Ramsey County lies in a region of the country considered to be a “hot” area for radon. This naturally occurring gas enters through the bottom level of homes and other buildings and has the ability to permeate the entire structure.

Ramsey County actively promotes radon awareness through print materials, a website, and a telephone information line (651.266.1133). The County urges all residents to test the radon level in their homes and businesses. You can buy a kit though Ramsey County ($9 and $13) or at a local home improvement store. Call 651.266.1199 to order a radon test kit and 651.266.1127 to speak to Lisa Marshall, the radon program coordinator.

Submitted by Ramsey County Environmental Health

Ramsey County Looking for Election Judges

2012-01-16T12:15:00.000-08:00

The county runs our elections. They are always looking for qualified, enthusiastic people to serve as election judges. The 2012 election will have a large voter turnout, and the county will need a lot of election judges to help make it a great year. If you have friends and neighbors who would also like to serve their community, please have them contact the county at the address below.

Training in person or online is available and REQUIRED!! A small stipend is paid for those people who serve as judges.

Contact Ramsey County Elections
90 W. Plato Blvd.
P.O. Box 64098
St. Paul, MN 55164-0098
651.266.2171
elections@co.ramsey.mn.us

Interesting news from St. Paul Smart-Trips

2012-01-11T12:57:00.000-08:00

Check out this link for a story about someone adopting a bus shelter to assure that everyone has access to transit during (normal) Minnesota winters....

St. Paul Smart Trips

Submitted by St. Paul Smart Trips...

Creating Business Plans - Library Workshop; Library News

2012-01-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

The Saint Paul Public Library is holding a series of workshops for people interested in starting their own business. They are doing this in partnership with WomenVenture - a nonprofit dedicated to helping women achieve economic success and prosperity.

The first workshop will be January 31 at the Sun Ray Library at 10:30a and will cover how to write a positive, succinct and distinctive business plan. For more information on this workshop and the others in the series, call 651.501.6300 or visit www.sppl.org.

In other library news - Did you know that Sun Ray Library will close starting at 8p soon? This is a part of the budget cutting plan that keeps libraries across the city open by having more limited hours for all the libraries.

Also, the city has been awarded a grant to bring a solar charging station to Sun Ray Library to power any electric cars out there. This grant is independent of the regular budget and is from a pool of money designated for energy reduction measures across the country. The charging station should be up and running by May of 2012.

Submitted by SPPL and the Department of Planning and Economic Development.

Suburban Car Lot Development

2012-01-04T13:38:00.000-08:00

So... the development on Suburban Avenue has morphed from what we discussed last year -- but not in any substantial way.

MaXit Pawn is no longer in the mix. The property is owned by Peter Remes, a developer who has been doing several projects in Minneapolis. There will be some tenants who were in the original proposal - Dairy Queen, for instance, but MaXit Pawn is replaced by Pawn America at a slightly smaller footprint than what was originally proposed.

They are also looking at a mix of larger and smaller tenants including a pet food store, hair salon, resale outlet, auto supply/repair place, dry cleaners and so on. Some of the buildings are fully leased, other buildings still have the leases under negotiation.

They expect to start renovations of the existing building as soon as the site plans can get through the city process, and construction of the other buildings should begin in the spring.

The new developer is abiding by all the conditions placed on the site during our earlier community process, but the completed site plan still needs city approval. This will give us one more chance for input.

The developer's representatives will be meeting with our Land Use Committee on Tuesday, January 10 at 5:30p at Conway Rec Center to present the modified overall plan.

Fitness Club at Local Parks and Rec Locations

2012-01-04T13:16:00.000-08:00

If you live or work in Saint Paul, you can get a fitness membership for $30 for the YEAR! That's less than $3/month and it gets you access to indoor fitness rooms at either Conway Rec Center or Battle Creek Rec. A series of free fitness room Open Houses will be hosted throughout January.

These open houses are for adults and teens ages 16 years and up. Activities include:

demonstration of available fitness equipment
healthy snacks
demonstration of a fitness class in session.

For the public to participate in the activities, they must bring tennis shoes (no street shoes allowed in fitness rooms or gymnasiums.

The Battle Creek Open House is Saturday January 7 from 9a - noon.

The Conway Open House is Wednesday January 27 from 6 - 8p.

Both of these locations have fitness rooms and showers available. You can sign up in person at either center. Non-city resident fitness package is $60/year...

For answers to your questions, contact ParksCustomerService@ci.stpaul.mn.us

D1 residents with Septic Systems Beware...

2011-12-28T11:37:00.000-08:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like potential problems for rural septic systems this holiday season.

“It may not be such a happy new year for some households if we don’t get snow cover before temperatures really start to drop,” Dan Olson, public information officer with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), said. “Snow helps to insulate septic systems and keep them from freezing. Fortunately, temperatures across the state have remained relatively mild so far, but that could change any time.”

The University of Minnesota Onsite Sewage Treatment Program provides tips for homeowners on how to prevent septic system freeze-ups and how to deal with them should they occur: • Place a layer of mulch eight to 12 inches thick over the pipes, tank and soil treatment system to provide extra insulation. This can be straw, leaves, hay or other loose material that will stay in place and not become compacted. This is particularly important for new systems that were installed so late in the year that vegetative cover could not be established. However, if the system is currently frozen, don’t add mulch now; it will delay thawing in the spring. • Let the grass or native vegetation growing over the tank and soil treatment area get a little taller in the late summer and fall to provide insulation and help hold snow. • Use water ― the warmer the better ― if you’re worried that your system is starting to freeze. Spread out your laundry schedule so you run one warm/hot load a day. Use the dishwasher and take hot baths. However, DO NOT leave water running all the time, as this will hydraulically overload the septic system. • Going away for an extended period? Plan accordingly. Have someone use warm water in your home regularly while you are gone or have your septic tank pumped out before you leave. If a shallow tank is left full for several winter months, the sewage will become very cold and can freeze. • Fix any leaky plumbing fixtures or appliances in your home. This will help prevent freezing problems and help your system perform better all year long. • If you have appliances that generate very low flows, such as high-efficiency furnaces, you can put heat tape in the pipe, and have someone come by and run warm water for a while you are on vacation. Alternatively, install a small condensate pump that holds and discharges two gallons per cycle. • Keep all vehicle, animal and human traffic off the system. This is a good rule to follow all year long as compacted snow and soils cause frost to go down deeper and faster. Pay special attention to the area between the house and the septic tank. • Make sure all risers; inspection pipes and manholes have covers. Sealing them and adding insulation is a good idea. Insulation may be added during construction particularly if the top of the septic tank is within two feet of the surface. • Keep an eye on your system. If any seeping or ponding occurs, contact a septic systems professional to help determine the cause and remedy. • Add more insulation to your system. This could include replacing pipe with insulated pipe, installing expanded foam panels over the septic tank, or adding more soil cover.

A common cause of freeze-ups are pipes that are not installed with the proper slant or that have settled, resulting in dips in the line. Where a dip or flat spot occurs, sewage can collect and freeze. Pump lines can develop a dip right next to or above the septic tank as a result of soil backfilled during tank installation settling.

If your septic system freezes, call a septic system professional. The MPCA website includes a search tool for finding certified professionals in your area. Search the Internet for "MPCA SSTS licensed business search." The pros have steamers and high-pressure jetters for thawing pipes.

Other methods used to fix a freezing problem include adding heat tape and tank heaters. Cameras can be sent down pipes to determine where freezing is occurring. If the soil treatment system is full of ice, or there is evidence of leaking, skip trying to thaw the lines leading to the treatment area as it cannot accept liquid until the area thaws in spring.

If it’s not feasible to correct a problem, the only option is using the septic tank as a holding tank until the system thaws naturally. Have a pumper empty the tank when it starts to fill up. In this situation, reduce water use by limiting the number of toilet flushes, taking short showers, and using the dishwasher at full capacity.

There are some things you should NEVER do to try to fix a frozen system: •DO NOT introduce antifreeze, salt or a septic system additive into the system. •DO NOT pump sewage onto the ground surface. •DO NOT start a fire over the system to attempt to thaw it out. •DO NOT run water continually to try to thaw the system. This can overload the system.

For information on keeping your system healthy all year, visit the University of Minnesota Onsite Sewage Treatment Program website.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

2011-12-22T13:10:00.000-08:00

The police cannot function effectively without the assistance of responsible citizens. We need your help in reporting suspicious activity. Some people fail to call because they are not aware of what is considered suspicious. Others notice suspicious activity and assume someone else will call. Still, others fail to call because they feel it may not be important enough or they are bothering the police.

We encourage everyone to call police IMMEDIATELY if they feel a situation or a circumstance is suspicious. DO NOT think you are bothering the police; this is why we are here! DO NOT be embarrassed if your suspicions prove unfounded. If police question someone who has legitimate reason to be where they are, they and the neighbors will be thankful that you are watching out for them and their property – “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”.

IF IN DOUBT, CALL! It is better to err on the side of safety rather than regret having not called after an incident occurs.

The following is an example of incidents that should be reported to the police by dialing 911. This list is not intended to be complete. Use your judgment when calling the police. Remember, if it seems suspicious, you should call.

ü Person loitering in your neighborhood that you don’t recognize

ü Persons loitering around cars, peering into them, or checking doors

ü Alarms sounding or glass being broken

ü Apparent “business transactions/drug deals” being conducted between people

ü Someone going into a neighbor’s yard, looking into windows, checking doors of the house or garage

ü Abandoned vehicle parked in your neighborhood

ü Someone seen with a weapon

While some, if not all, of the above situations could have innocent explanations, the police would rather check beforehand on suspicious activity than be called to investigate a crime after it is committed.

Please remember, timely reporting is important. Dial 911 as soon as you witness suspicious activity! Do not yell at or chase the suspect away. Call 911, and give suspect and vehicle description to help the police respond appropriately or even catch a suspect.

Submitted by the St. Paul Police Crime Prevention unit.

December Health Tips from Anytime Fitness

2011-12-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

Question: My 6-year old son wants to eat hot lunch every day because his friends do, but I know I could make him some healthier options here at home. Any advice?

Answer: This is probably an issue that a lot of parents deal with. Sadly, the nutritional guidelines for public schools are terrible, which gives them a license to serve cheap, processed food. That being said, some schools make more of an effort in the area of nutrition than others. Therefore, it really depends on what your son has available to him at his school. Some schools actually offer salad bars and fresh fruit as staples, which is a good thing, but many don’t even go this far. My recommendation would be to pack him a cold lunch as the standard, but then look at the school lunch menu with him and pick out a few days that both of you approve of. This gives him a little control over his own food choices, but also lets you lay the ground rules for lunchtime eating. Ideally, the focus should be on healthful food options, and with careful planning, I think this can be accomplished with a combination of both cold and hot lunches.

Question: Is it wise to include supersets in my workouts and, if so, what are the advantages?

Answer: Supersets involve performing two exercises back to back with little or no rest in between. And if you’re looking to change up your workouts a bit, they’re definitely worth a try. There are numerous superset variations, but the most common types would be same muscle supersetting or antagonistic supersetting. As the name implies, same muscle supersetting incorporates two different exercises for the same muscle group. For example, one set of dumbbell chest presses could be followed by barbell incline press. Antagonistic supersetting involves opposing muscle groups, so you might combine biceps curls with triceps extensions, again with no rest in between sets. No matter what type of supersetting you engage in, there are three obvious advantages to utilizing this method of training. First of all, doing supersets saves time, which is clearly advantageous when people want to get in and get out. It also allows an individual to train at a higher intensity, which can produce better results in the long run. And lastly, because supersetting allows for increased workout intensity without using very heavy weights, the likelihood of injury decreases significantly. Give ‘em a try and see what you think!

Question: A couple of my friends have recently started juicing. What are your thoughts?

Answer: Juicers are quite popular these days, but here’s my take on the whole juicing phenomenon. Occasionally, I’ll meet people that just hate fruit and vegetables. They pretty much avoid them altogether. But interestingly, a few of these individuals have said that juicing seems to work for them. They don’t seem to have a problem drinking their fruits and veggies. If this is the case for you or someone you know, I say “go for it.” However, we need to remember that most juicers remove virtually all of the fiber as the fruits and vegetables are processed. If you add in the research that shows that fiber may provide much of the health benefits attributed to fruits and vegetables, we have a problem here. I would argue it’s much better to eat fruits and vegetables intact—the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Plus, most folks consume far too little fiber anyway, so juicing is just going to exacerbate this problem. Bottom line—save your money and stick with whole fruits and vegetables whenever possible.

Submitted by David Tenner, the District 1 Anytime Fitness

Scam targeting elders...

2011-12-21T13:29:00.000-08:00

We've had reports from local residents that an old scam is still in play. This phone scam targets elders, so if you or someone you know gets such a call, beware. Spread the word on this...

A caller responds to a "Hello" with "Hi Grandpa/Grandma, it's me." Without identifying themselves, they then try to figure out who they can impersonate and then launch into a story that they are stuck somewhere out of the city with friends and have been in an accident. They are trying to get people to wire them money to either "get back home" or "pay for doctor's bills" or something else.

Needless to say, you should just hang up. Do not ask, "Is this ____ (insert the name of a grandkid)?" If you don't recognize the voice, just hang up. If you or someone you know has had an experience with this, let us know. If you have caller id, check to see if a number comes up and report that to the police.

This is a similar scam to one in which folks may approach you in parking lots and say that their car has broken down on the freeway and need money for repairs, or they have just been robbed and need to get home or whatever. If you are approached in this way at a parking lot around here, walk away and report it to the store. Such solicitation is usually against the law.

Don't become a victim.

Shoveling and Accessibility

2011-12-21T10:51:00.000-08:00

Keeping Sidewalks clear is always a concern, but here is a message from the City's Human Rights Department that we should all keep in mind...

With temperatures dropping and the snow starting to fall, the Mayor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities would like to remind Saint Paul residents and businesses to keep sidewalks clear. Un-shoveled or poorly shoveled sidewalks and curb ramps make it dangerous and next to impossible for people with mobility and/or vision impairments to get around.

Please make sure to fully shovel your sidewalk and curb ramps. There are resources available for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with shoveling. For assistance, seniors can call, 1-800-333-2433 (M-F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), and people with disabilities are directed to call, 1-866-333-2466 (M-F 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.). Some resources may come with a cost associated. Additional helpful information on snow emergencies and plowing at the Department of Public Works.

St. Paul Parks Lottery begins Jan 3

2011-12-20T09:44:00.001-08:00

City of Saint Paul residents and businesses can apply for park picnic permits beginning Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012. The Parks Permit Office will open at 6 a.m. with lottery numbers issued from 6 to 6:30 a.m. (Numbers cannot be transferred to other customers) and permits beginning to be issued at 6:31 a.m. Customers arriving after 6:30 a.m. will be issued permits on a first-come, first-served basis and will be issued permits after all the lottery customers have been served. Only one reservation may be made per day by an individual, group, or organization, and no phone reservations will be accepted until January 4.

Verification of a Saint Paul address will be required to obtain a lottery ticket and to make a reservation. Customers applying for a private event will be required to show a valid driver's license for proof of Saint Paul residency. For business reservations, documentation such as letterhead, stationery or business card must be provided prior to a lottery ticket being issued.

To be eligible for the permit lottery on Jan. 3, residents or businesses must arrive in person at the Park Permit Office, 1100 North Hamline Ave. On Jan. 4, permit applications will be accepted from residents and businesses of Saint Paul over the telephone, 651-632-5111 (TTY: 651-266-6378) with credit card payment only (American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa). Park Permit Office hours are 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Non-residents may apply for permits beginning Feb. 1, 2012.

For additional information visit www.stpaul.gov/parks

St. Paul Red and Blue Cares

2011-11-29T14:27:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, November 19, there was a grand gathering at our local Target. The attendees were local families, firefighters, police officers, and volunteers. The occasion? A chance for local children to buy Thanksgiving dinner makings for their families in need. They were assisted by the firefighters and police officers in this first-of-its-kind event. Twenty local families were helped through generous donations by the Target Foundation and our local Target store.

The kids were also treated to lunch courtesy of Los Ocampo, Ho Ho Gourmet, Culvers, Little Oven, Dominos and KFC. Our local Target supplied drinks and the lovely cake. There were visits with mascots, mounted patrol, special police vehicles and at the local firestation.

Many thanks to the efforts of the planning committee, Saint Paul Police and Fire, Saint Paul Public Schools, the local restaurants, the volunteers and to Target. (Photos courtesy of Senior Commander Joe Neuberger of the Eastern District SPPD!!)

Holiday Safety Tips

2011-11-28T12:55:00.000-08:00

If you shop with credit cards, remember to only carry those cards you will be using. Report any missing cards right away (credit card companies don't hold you responsible for charges once you report the card stolen...), check your credit card statements for accuracy and keep a separate record of your cards and the numbers to call when they are lost or stolen.

If you carry cash to shop, only carry what you need, keep it in a safe place, and don't flash it around.

Store your gifts in the trunk before you leave the place you bought them. Don't get to your next location and then put things in the trunk. Use the store/mall lockers to store things if you don't carry them between shops at a single location. Immediately remove packages from your trunk when you return home - and don't store gifts in the garage (the garage lock is usually your weakest...).

Schedule deliveries when you will be home or have them delivered to a trusted, stay-at-home neighbor. If you live in a multi-unit building, bring deliveries for your neighbors into a secured area.

Keep your home lighted and don't leave gifts in plain sight.

Then, there have been an increase in thefts of electronic devices such as I-phones and Droids. When you are out in public, keep alert to your surroundings, don't be focused on these devices. Usually they are stolen in a "grab and run" type of action - so staying aware of your surroundings reduces your chances of being targeted. In the cities, these items have been stolen by single individuals who were hanging around in groups usually in the evening or at night, often near shopping areas or bus stops. Report these thefts immediately.

Most thefts are crimes of opportunity - don't give someone the opportunity to do you wrong...

Home Energy Improvement Loans Available

2011-11-21T10:13:00.000-08:00

The City still has funds available to make energy efficient improvements to homes in our neighborhood. The Saint Paul Energy Smart Homes program provides no-interest, deferred loans of up to $6,500 to Saint Paul homeowners to install insulation and/or a new furnace or boiler. This limited-time offer is available on a first-come, first-served basis to homeowners of all incomes.

Homeowners across the city have already taken advantage of this program and we want more people in our neighborhood to benefit as well.

Questions can be directed to Kurt Schultz, 651.266.6590 or kurt.schultz@ci.stpaul.mn.us or the City's partner, LeAnne at Neighborhood Energy Connection - 651.221.4462 ext 132.

Thanksgiving Meals at Fare for All

2011-11-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

Many Twin Cities families will be faced with high food prices this holiday season. Instead of having to scale back on their Thanksgiving meal, anyone is welcome to purchase a $30 holiday pack through Fare For All Express. Much like a traveling grocery store, Fare For All Express is a program that sells fresh produce and frozen meat for up to 40 percent less than grocery store prices.  

Throughout the month of November, $30 holiday packs will be available for sale at all Fare For All Express locations. The package will contain a 10-12 pound turkey, pie, frozen vegetables, cranberries, bread, and other items to complete a holiday meal. At almost half of a typical grocery store price, it is the perfect way to get a great Thanksgiving dinner for less. There is no need to pre-order the package.

In our area, the Fare for All Express site is at Hazel Park Church 1831 East Minnehaha Avenue, St Paul, MN-55119 Call 651.735.2555 for more info.

Burns Park Playground

2011-11-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

After a recent inspection of the Burns Park Play Area, our Parks Operations staff have expressed concerns about the safety of the aging play equipment. Therefore, we will begin removing the playground components starting the week of 11/21.

We are currently working with the community in designing a new play area for Burns Park, with the construction planned for spring of 2012.

If you are interested in helping with planning the new playground, please contact the District 1 office at district1council@aol.com or Dave with the city Parks Planning Department at David.Ronzani@ci.stpaul.mn.us.

Submitted by Saint Paul Parks.

Wed. Nov 9 1p Test

2011-11-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

National Test of the Emergency Alert System

On Wednesday, November 9, at approximately 1 PM, FEMA, in coordination with the FCC, will conduct the country's first nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) Test. The test will last approximately 3 minutes across the country. The purpose of the test is to assess the reliabiity and effectiveness of the system in alerting the public. The national-level EAS is a public alert, warning system that enables the President to address the public during extreme emergencies. During the test, all EAS participants, including broadcast radio and TV, cable and satellite TV, will participate in the transmission of a live audio message indicating this is a test.

According to Comcast, "in some rare cases to fully restore programming, customers may need to power down the convertor to restore programming. If the test lasts for more than five minutes, then customers should unplug the convertor box, wait thirty seconds and plug back in."

Submitted by the City of St. Paul

Leave your Leaves with Ramsey County

2011-11-07T11:14:00.000-08:00

The Ramsey County Yard Waste sites are burgeoning with activity this time of year as residents drop-off leaves they’ve diligently raked from yards. Each year approximately 400,000 residents visit one of the County’s seven yard waste sites to drop off yard waste, or to pick up wood mulch, compost, or black dirt – all free of charge! About one third of those 400,000 visits occur in October and November during the peak of the “leaf season.” When residents manage their yard waste at a Ramsey County site or in a backyard compost bin, they save thousands of yards of landfill space and recycle valuable nutrients back into the soil by making compost. Furthermore, residents who visit the yard waste sites in the spring can pick up free compost (as available) which closes the recycling loop and provides their gardens and lawns with a valuable soil amendment.

Remember, it is ILLEGAL to rake your leaves into the street in St. Paul - doing so adds tons of phosphorus pollution to the river AND it costs taxpayers for increase costs of street sweeping... Our yard waste site is off Londin Lane near Highwood Hills Elementary School. There is a second yard waste site that accepts woody waste at Frank and Sims (off Earl Street just north of Phalen Blvd).

Submitted by Ramsey County

Solar Electric Vehicle Charging Station to Come to SunRay Library?

2011-11-03T11:03:00.000-07:00

The City of Saint Paul is in the midst of a project to install public, electric vehicle charging stations around the city using Federal grant money. More information about this work is available at www.stpaul.gov/evchargingstations.

A couple of the stations will be solar powered. Below is an image of the array planned for installation in the Como Pavilion parking lot to power two electric vehicle charging stations (they are visible as two posts under the array, but look like the second attached photo). This is being funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

The State of Minnesota has a small amount of renewable energy fund money that it is looking to use to assist Mpls and St. Paul in doing a couple of more solar charging stations. If funded, we'd like to do an installation at Sun Ray library. The design of the solar array and stations would be similar to the Como installation, although there could be some design modifications to the cross bar, which in the Como case was designed to match detailing on the Como Pavilion.

Based on solar access at the Sun Ray site and the availability of utility service, an array would be best installed next to the SW corner of the upper parking lot at Sun Ray, near the sidewalk that runs between the two parts of the parking lot. The array would be tied into the charging stations and the utility grid, thereby providing solar energy to the grid when the stations are not in use, and providing grid power to the stations when the sun is not shining. The two charging station parking spaces could be designated as "EV Only" parking, or as first-come-first serve for any car, unless reserved. (The charging stations can be reserved on-line ahead of visits, so that only the person with the reservation can access the plug during that time.)

We'd like to proceed with this grant opportunity as quickly as possible, and if funded, would welcome input from District 1 on design and use. Please let me know if you have any questions or thoughts on this. You can contact Merritt.Clapp-Smith@ci.stpaul.mn.us

Submitted by St. Paul Department of Planning and Economic Development

Aerial Photo Flights

2011-11-03T10:54:00.000-07:00

The MAC was just informed today that the MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) would conducting repetitive nighttime aircraft overflights beginning tonight and continuing for the next three weeks. See email below.

The map project area includes all of Saint Paul. The aircraft will departing and landing out of the Holman Field Airport. There will be just one plane conducting the study each night.

The project must be conducted during low-air traffic demand periods, which is why it is necessary to operate during the nighttime hours (11 p.m. - 5 a.m.).

The pilot have been instructed to follow the agreed upon "Pilot Information & Noise Abatement Procedures". See the attached brochure. The plane will be using slow flight and low power settings to minimize the noise. However, it is my understanding that there is no flexibility in the altitude.

If you get complaints about the noise, please call the MAC's hotline - 612.726.9411 or www.macnoise.com/complaint.

If you have specific questions about the project, please contact Tim Loesch, DNR GIS Supervisor, at 651.259.5475.

Submitted by the Mayor's Office

More Clean Up Info

2011-11-01T13:02:00.000-07:00

Attendance at our clean up increased by 25% over last year and by 60% over two years ago. Total tonnage collected increased by 10%, but there was an increase in what went to the landfill and a decrease by 1% of what was diverted to reuse and recycling outlets. So the upshot is that only 48% of what was brought in was prevented from being trashed.

The mattresses and carpeting that were recycled this year amounted to 3% of the total collected.

We had an increase in the amount of lawnmowers and small motors that were recycled. And we also had a large number of fluorescent bulbs that got recycled.

As I mentioned before, we met our maximum of 40 seniors who were served by our pick up crew, and, unfortunately, had to turn away others who would have like to participate.

Thanks to everyone who volunteered, brought things in, and supports us with this important D1 event!

November Fitness Tips

2011-11-01T10:13:00.001-07:00

Question: I’m not a particularly great cook, and I seem to eat a lot of boxed foods. Is this a problem if health is one of my primary goals?

Answer: It really depends on the specific foods you’re eating, but it’s definitely advantageous to eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables and all-natural whole grains as possible, not to mention fresh meats and seafood. That said, convenience, price, and several other factors most likely play into your food choices as well, so choosing the best foods 100% of the time may not be all that practical. My advice to you would be to move in the direction of fresh foods as much as you can, given your particular lifestyle. And remember, you don’t have to be a great cook to reap the health benefits of nutrient-dense foods. They may taste better if you know how to properly prepare them, but it’s pretty easy to throw together some chicken or fish with a cooked whole grain and some veggies for a quick and easy (and healthy) dinner. I would also recommend taking a basic cooking class so you can learn a new skill—one that will continue to pay health dividends moving forward.

Question: I hate getting sick. Can you provide some tips and hints to keep me healthy throughout the winter months?

Answer: I’m with you—being sick sucks! Luckily, there are a couple tried and true habits that will help you avoid the latest bug. First of all, wash your hands frequently, and by all means, avoid touching your face (especially your eyes, nose, and mouth). Drink plenty of fluids, get plenty of sleep (people forget how important this is to a healthy immune system), and get a flu shot as well. It goes without saying that a healthful diet is ideal, but I would also recommend a good quality multivitamin/ mineral supplement too, since most people struggle to eat a balanced and varied diet on a daily basis. But to me, the most effective way to avoid illness is to stay away from people that are already sick. This can certainly be a challenge, especially if you have kids, but do your best. Put these tips to good use, and you should be able to skirt through the winter with nothing more than the occasional head cold, if that!

Question: I’m big into weightlifting, but I’m not a huge fan of cardio. Is there a way for me to enhance heart health without hopping on one of the traditional pieces of cardio equipment for 45 minutes at the gym?

Answer: Yes—absolutely! Cardio doesn’t necessarily mean you have to get on the bike, treadmill, or elliptical. You simply need to get your heart rate up and that can be accomplished during your weight training sessions. Doing compound sets or supersets, or intense circuits with very little rest, will definitely get your heart rate kicking, and these provide the fitness and health benefits you’re looking for. You can get active in plenty of other ways too, without feeling like a hamster on a wheel. Try playing one of your favorite sports or go hiking in a nearby park. Even tubing or sledding in the wintertime can provide a good cardiovascular workout. Just think outside the box a little and keep the focus on fun!

Submitted by David Tenner, club manager at Anytime Fitness

Free Eastside Thanksgiving Meal

2011-11-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

You are invited to join your fellow East Siders for the fifth annual, free, East Side Thanksgiving Day Meal on Thursday, November 24. The meal is hosted by Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, located at 674 Johnson Parkway. The meal begins at noon and will be served until 1:15pm. Reserve your place at the table by calling the church office at 774-2396.

Submitted by Pastor Brian Scoles

Rail Noise and Senator Franken

2011-10-27T13:17:00.000-07:00

District 1 staff and residents met with Senator Al Franken's staff this week to discuss the on-going problem neighbors have with CPRail noise - in particular, the squealing of the braking system that is used as railcars are shifted from one engine to another.

For several years we have been trying to work with the railroad to address this very particular problem - one that they were willing to help with in the 1990s, but which has returned with a vengeance. Despite the railroad's promise that they would arrange a site visit so that a few of us could view operations and try to figure out what has changed in the past 4-5 years, nothing has been happening and the noise is still there.

Franken's staff has committed to researching the regulations that govern the noise levels at the railroad. We feel that they are outdated and cannot address the kind of high-pitched, intermittent, short duration bursts of sound. And the staff will look into this...

We will keep you updated as we hear what the Senator's staff finds out...

Build Community and Get Ready for WINTER!

2011-10-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

I know for some it is hard to think that soon there will be snow falling but here’s an idea to help make worthwhile use of the winter months!

Are you a resident who would like to help form a community group to volunteer to shovel sidewalks at vacant homes in your neighborhood? Not only would this help to build a strong neighborhood by getting to know your neighbors, it would also help to prevent potential crimes in the neighborhood by making it appear as if the vacant properties are not sitting empty waiting to be vandalized. Also, a well kept property may just attract new neighbors to fill those vacant properties. Remember, being a good neighbor helps everyone and promotes, GOOD NEIGHBORS!

This is just a picture to remind you of what is coming...

Submitted by Pam McCreary, Crime Prevention Organizer

Building Good Neighborhoods

2011-10-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

As we are heading into the holiday seasons I would like to suggest a possible neighborhood project. This is not just for the blocks who have organized block clubs but for everyone!

Just as the blog entry submitted by Store to Door would help home bound people; I would like to see neighbors also start on their own block or area. Do you know of someone who could use a little help? Maybe they are having a hard time making ends meet financially, recovering from an illness, or not able to leave their home for other reasons. Consider joining together to help these neighbors out. It could be by providing a bag of groceries or holiday meal, helping to rake and collect leaves before the snow falls, or offering to keep their sidewalks free of snow and ice.

Being a good neighbor helps everyone and promotes, GOOD NEIGHBORHOODS!

Submitted by Pam McCreary, D1 Crime Prevention Organizer

Citizen Police Academy

2011-10-24T14:03:00.000-07:00

The Saint Paul Police Department is working to demystify the intense work that goes into successful investigations and solving crimes by throwing open its doors to the 2011 winter class of the department's Citizen Police Academy.

Seats are still open for this behind-the-scenes peek into the world of law enforcement. Beginning Dec. 28, 2011, up to 25 community members will gain first-hand experience on topics that include:

Police use of defensive tactics and firearm issues.

Patrol procedures.

Work with the department's canine unit and mounted patrol.

Forensic investigating.

Information about the evolution and history of the Saint Paul Police Department.

The Citizen Police Academy gives residents and community members a better understanding of the array of situations in which officers can find themselves on any given day. Participants must commit one night each week for 11 weeks, from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Participants will also have opportunities to discuss issues important to our community with SPPD representatives.

There is no cost to participants. The expectation is that they will take what they learn and help other community members understand the work of SPPD officers. Upon completion of the academy, participants are also eligible to serve on the Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission. To be considered for the academy, applicants must meet the following requirements or be designated by SPPD Chief Tom Smith:

Must be a resident of Saint Paul or be a business or property owner within the city limits.

Must be 21 year of age or older.

Must not have a criminal history.

For more information about the Citizens Academy or to apply, please contact CPA Coordinator Don Luna at 651-266-5583.

Submitted by St. Paul Police

Safety Advisory: Theft of Jewelry from Children

2011-10-20T11:28:00.000-07:00

Saint Paul Police are investigating several theft reports where a woman took gold necklaces from children after the woman appeared to have befriended them and their parents. The incidents occurred at two area markets: Hmong Village, 1001 Johnson Parkway, and Hmong Market, 217 Como Avenue.

In several incidents the woman approached families with children and began a friendly conversation before offering to introduce the children to her own. Parents believed this offer to be true and allowed their children to walk away with the woman. She used that opportunity to take the children’s gold necklaces, and then left the area. There have been no reports that any children have been harmed.

Witnesses described the suspect as an Asian woman in her twenties who appears to be pregnant. She was seen driving a Toyota minivan with Wisconsin license plates. Anyone who has information about this case or similar incidents is asked to call 651-291-1111.

Submitted by SPPD

Store-to-Door Volunteer Opportunities

2011-10-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

Store-to-Door is a nonprofit organization that provides grocery and prescription delivery services to the Twin Cities Metro area. Winter is their busiest season, increasing their client base by over 200 last year. They serve on average 1,300 clients per year, with their average client being a female aged 84 years.

Do you enjoy shopping? Walk with purpose, gain friends and help people stay independent. Please consider grocery shopping for the homebound elderly for 2-4 hours twice per month or on a weekly basis. Volunteer Shoppers work in partnership with five metro area Cub Food Stores to shop for clients' orders and prepare them for delivery. Store-to-Door paid staff deliver groceries directly to clients' homes. Volunteer Shoppers are needed at the St. Paul Midway Cub (T, W, Th, F), the Maplewood Cub Store (Th, F) and the Bloomington Cub Store (T, Th), with a minimum 3 month commitment.

Enjoy the telephone? Are you comfortable with computer on-line work? Please consider being a Volunteer Order Taker. Volunteers call two clients each week entering their order online into the S-t-D order database. Please consider this a one year commitment. This commitment helps you to know the client's grocery interests and provides stability. Each volunteer helps S-t_D serve an additional 4 clients (2 every other week). Online training module is available.

For more info contact Kristen Hoplin at 651.642.1892 or visit their website at www.storetodoor.org.

Submitted by Store to Door

Reporting Suspicious Activity

2011-10-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

IF IN DOUBT, CALL! It is better to err on the side of safety rather than regret having not called after an incident occurs.

ü Person loitering in your neighborhood that you don’t recognize

ü Persons loitering around cars, peering into them, or checking doors

ü Alarms sounding or glass being broken

ü Apparent “business transactions/drug deals” being conducted between people

ü Someone going into a neighbor’s yard, looking into windows, checking doors of the house or garage

ü Abandoned vehicle parked in your neighborhood

ü Someone seen with a weapon

Submitted by the St. Paul Police

Preliminary Results of our Clean Up

2011-10-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

cars lined up to unload

Maybe it was the lowered cost for dropping off electronics, or maybe it was a collective need to unload our lives, but our attendance this year at the Community Clean Up was significantly higher than in years past. We maintained our maximum of 40 seniors who we were able to assist in getting their stuff to the Slumberland parking lot - and we are sorry that we had to turn away some seniors requesting help - but the other people coming into the site totaled 230, almost 100 more than our historical average, and about 50 more than last year.

We had a very large crew of volunteers this year - 5 crews helping seniors, and 14 youth from Boys Totem Town, in addition to about 25-30 other volunteers. This number of helpers, and a redesigned layout at the site, seemed to have things running much more smoothly than in the past. And it also helps having volunteers return year after year who know the routine.

our reuse section with free stuff

We had less in the reuse area this year, but we are still waiting for final weights on the total amount reused, recycled and sent to the dump.

Many thanks to Slumberland, Brueggers, Little Oven, Boys Totem Town, and all the D1 volunteers for their help making this another successful event.

Metro Transit Open House at Metro State 10/11

2011-10-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

Metro Transit will be having several open houses next week to gather public input on a study they are conducting to improve transit service on some of the most heavily used bus routes. They are studying eleven corridors in the Twin Cities and surrounding suburbs that combined carry about half of the local daily bus ridership. The focus of this study is on improving existing bus routes, not planned or under construction Light Rail lines. These open houses will be informal and participants are welcome to come and go as they please. There will be three meetings; two in Minneapolis and one in St. Paul. Meeting times, locations and directions are listed below. If you would like more information and a map of corridors in this study please visit: http://metrotransit.org/arterial-study.aspx

- Tuesday, Oct. 11 - 6 to 8 p.m., Metro State University, Founders Hall, 700 E. 7th St., St. Paul

Nearby bus routes: 61, 63 and 74, Parking ($2.50) is available on Maria St. between E. 6th and 7th streets, across from Founders Hall.

Submitted my Metro Transit

October is Crime Prevention Month!

2011-10-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

What you can do to help protect yourself and your property;

- Keep your doors to your home and garage locked at all times

- Get to know your neighbors – organize a Neighborhood Crime Watch / Block Club by contacting Pam at the District 1 Community Council 651-578-7400

- Don’t let people you don’t know into your home such as solicitors or repair people unless you initiated the visit

- Never leave windows open when you are not at home or overnight unless you have them secured to only open 6” or less

- Do not leave valuables near an open window – criminals have been known to cut a screen, reach in, and take what is within reach!

- Do not leave valuables in your vehicle at any time. Always take them into your home and if you must leave them in the vehicle, put them in the trunk before you reach your destination

- Always call police at 911 or the non-emergency number 651-291-1111 if you see suspicious or unusual behavior. No call is too insignificant to call police!

It is always a good time to practice safety and crime prevention techniques.

Always be ready to be safe!

“TO DO" List: During your fall frenzy to complete projects around the house during this week's warm weather, add security to the top of the list!

Think of all your outside entry doors, including the garage and service

doors, as a 'system' and make sure deadbolts are installed, glass is

reinforced, framing is strong and solid, use high security strike plates

with three inch screws and adequate depth for the deadbolt throw to

reach inside the framework. Then - LOCK IT!

Submitted by Pam McCreary, Crime Prevention organizer, D1

Local Schools Restore Lakeshore

2011-09-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

The Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District has been working with local schools to restore the shoreline at Keller Lake. Here are photos of the students from L'Etoile du Nord French Immersion School and Farnsworth Aerospace PreK-8 Magnet - Upper Campus (5-8) on September 22 and 23 working with the Watershed District on this project.

Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District works with many community partners on the project, including Ramsey County Corrections, Ramsey County Master Gardeners, and MN Conservation Corps in addition to local schools.

Submitted by the Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District

Emerald Ash Borer Contractors...

2011-09-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

Due to the recent finding of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) the City has received notice that an influx of vendors/contractors have begun going door to door again contacting residents claiming to have "correct or more accurate" information on the effects of the EAB infestation on Saint Paul's ash trees. These vendors/contractors are not authorized by the City of Saint Paul, or the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Residents may be contacted or visited by these companies (that have an opportunity for financial gain), and those companies are acting on their own accord and have not been contracted by the City to go door to door. If contacted by one of these companies, residents can request identification, and if the company claims to work for the City of Saint Paul or identifies themselves as a contractor of the City of Saint Paul, please take their name and business they represent, and report them to City Forestry at 651-632-5129. All City Forestry staff carry identification, or can be confirmed by contacting the City Forestry office.

If the vendor does not identify themselves as working for the City, residents can certainly make their own decision on the products they may be selling for private use. Residents who wish to educate themselves on the alternatives for their private ash trees can visit www.stpaul.gov/eab for more information, and if residents wish to learn more about insecticide options visit the USDA's website: www.emeraldashborer.info

To help ensure residents are choosing the best option for them, all work done on a homeowners property should be done by a certified arborist. Any questions or concerns can be directed to the City's Forestry hotline at: 651-632-5129 or email: forestry@ci.stpaul.mn.us

Submitted by the City Forestry department (Parks and Recreation)

Nominate a Neighborhood Hero!

2011-09-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

Is there someone you know in our area who is doing good things to create a great neighborhood? We honor up to three residents (or businesses) each year for the Neighborhood Honor Roll. But we don't know everything that is happening and who is responsible.

So if you know a neighbor who shovels the walks of seniors every winter, or who volunteers at the library or a school, or who works with scout troops, or welcomes new neighbors whenever they move in... whatever!... contact us and nominate that person for the Honor Roll.

We hold a January celebration of all honorees city-wide, the honoree receives a certificate of appreciation and their name inscribed on a plaque outside city council chambers.

Let us know who makes our area a special place!

Reminder from Police

2011-09-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

SPPD wants to remind you school is back in session - this means school buses and children will be on the road! Please remember to follow the laws: stop at school patrol stop walks, follow school speed zones, and always stop when approaching a school bus with their lights on.

Parents it is also a good idea to go over safety tips with your child including keeping hands and heads in the bus, following the bus driver instructions, standing back on the sidewalk while waiting, and watching for the bus driver to give permission before crossing the street.

Submitted by SPPD

Park and Ride Update

2011-09-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, September 21, local residents met with Metro Transit officials and with members of the Bdote Reconciliation Consortium to talk about the analysis of alternatives MTC did for expansion possibilities at the Lower Afton Park and Ride. Also present were City officials and State Representative Sheldon Johnson.

We looked at 5 different options and Metro Transit said that only three were viable for them in terms of impacts and cost - maintain the status quo, the original expansion plan (which would remove screening trees and come too close to the mounds), or a modification of the current situation (which would involve restriping and designating parking spaces along the street).

There was a good deal of discussion about the other two options - a new surface lot north of Lower Afton, or parking at the current Lower Battle Creek lot in the park. Metro Transit eliminated these possibilities because of cost (the first) and safety concerns (the second).

Another alternative was suggested by the group - using the money that had been earmarked for the expansion on removing the current lot and restoring the greenspace, and then studying an alternative location for the lot further south along Point Douglas Rd.

Metro Transit assured the group that they were not pushing any alternative and that they were now concerned that any expansion at the site would only exacerbate the problems that neighbors are currently having - congestion at the Point Douglas/Lower Afton intersection and parking that narrows the road.

So where do we stand now??

The District Council is looking at the broader issues that this planning and the station area planning for the Red Rock Corridor have raised. We will be investigating potential collaborations that can develop and propose a short and medium term solution to all the community issues here, that will move us toward the long-term vision that has developed AND that will respect the natural and spiritual features of this area.

We will keep people up to date here and via email, so if you want email updates, contact us at our email address.

High Speed Rail Funding in Minnesota

2011-09-12T13:29:00.000-07:00

Despite legislative attempts to eliminate all funding for passenger rail projects, the Minnesota High-Speed Rail Commission and high-speed rail champions successfully fought to keep funding and make Minnesota a leader in the development of a national high-speed rail network.

Earlier this spring, the legislature proposed eliminating funding for the Passenger Rail office in the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and reallocating $26 million in bonding money for intercity passenger rail. Fortunately passenger rail funding was preserved during the July special session, sending a message to the federal government that Minnesota remains serious about developing a sustainable transportation plan for the future.

In the near term, MnDOT continues to press forward with its study to determine the best route connecting the Twin Cities to Milwaukee. An environmental impact study is currently underway, followed by preliminary engineering to be completed by 2013. Final design, engineering, and construction will follow, taking approximately two years to complete.

The route for high speed rail would come through District 1 along the Canadian Pacific and BNSF lines along the river. This potential increase in future traffic has to be considered, along with potential Red Rock Corridor traffic and any commercial rail increases, with design of the lines. Ramsey County has undertaken an East Metro Rail Study to look at these issues.

Submitted by Tunheim Associates on behalf of Regional Rail Authority

Volunteer at the Rec Centers

2011-09-06T14:14:00.000-07:00

Recreation Center Volunteer Opportunities.

There are many volunteer opportunities within City youth sports programs. The Parks and Rec Department is always in search of youth coaches and referees for the many sports that we offer. To fill out a volunteer interest form, click here.

Submitted by Parks and Rec Volunteer Coordinator

Online Bike Routing Tool

2011-09-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

Cyclopath and Cycloplan: collaborative bicycle planning and routing

Provided by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

Loren Terveen, associate professor of computer science and engineering,
and James Andrew of the Metropolitan Council discussed how an online
routing tool for bicyclists has been enhanced for transportation planners and engineers.

Cyclopath, a geowiki developed by a team of University of Minnesota researchers,
is an open content routing and social media tool for bicyclists. Users can search
for bicycle routes, share notes about roads and trails, enter tags about special
locations, and edit route maps by filling in missing or unofficial trails.

For more information

Construction on I-94 to Begin

2011-09-06T09:51:00.000-07:00

Additional lane planned for eastbound I-94 east of downtown St. Paul

ROSEVILLE, Minn. – Construction of an auxiliary lane on eastbound Interstate 94 between Highway 61 and White Bear Avenue in St. Paul is scheduled to begin early Saturday,
September 10.

As work begins, the ramp from northbound Highway 61 to eastbound I-94 and the ramp from eastbound I-94 to White Bear Avenue will close. Motorists should follow the signed detours or use alternate routes to avoid congestion and possible delays. There will also be occasional lane closures on the interstate throughout the construction.

The project also includes construction of a new wall along the south side of eastbound I-94 to provide a visual barrier for the adjacent neighborhood.

When completed in mid-October, the new lane will help ease congestion by providing a separate lane for motorists traveling eastbound between Highway 61 and White Bear Avenue or who want to exit on White Bear Avenue from the eastbound interstate.

For travel information anywhere in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or dial 511.

Submitted by MnDOT

Health Tips for the Neighborhood

2011-08-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

Question: I usually skip breakfast, but I keep reading how good it is for me. What are the best options for breakfast foods?

Answer: Eating breakfast in the morning is a great way to jumpstart your day. It helps boost your metabolism and keeps you focused longer at work. Some say eating something is always better than nothing, and while this is generally true, there are some foods that are much more beneficial to include in the day’s first meal. Eggs are always a great way to get protein and healthy fats into your system, and also keep you feeling full longer. Whole grains are another crucial component to remember for your breakfast. Whole wheat toast with a sugar-free fruit spread is healthy option that contains anti-oxidants and fiber. Fruits and vegetables should be incorporated when possible—they supply nutritious carbohydrates that keep the body energized and feeling awake. I’m assuming everyone is waiting for their beloved cup of coffee to make this list. Well, fear not, coffee is also a low-calorie option, assuming you’re not ordering a large caramel swirl sugar-filled latte. Adding some fat-free skim milk to black coffee is an excellent way to get your daily calcium requirements and it also contains numerous vitamins and minerals. Whether you eat your breakfast on-the-go, or make time for a formal sit-down meal, be sure include healthy options, while still keeping your breakfast convenient to you.

Question: I work inside all day and don’t see much sun. Should I be supplementing with vitamin D?

Answer: It depends. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is absorbed in conjunction with calcium, promoting healthy bone growth. Vitamin D can be ingested through food or supplement, but it can also be produced by the body when in direct sunlight. The daily recommended amount of vitamin D is 10 μg. This is including any vitamin D absorbed from UV rays. Fortunately, that only requires a short amount of sunlight (about 15 minutes) to get the daily recommendation, depending on where you live and how intense the sun rays are. During the colder months, vitamin D can be ingested from foods such as: fish, milk, mushrooms, and fortified cereals. If all of those approaches don’t seem to work, supplementing vitamin D is a feasible option that should be discussed with your doctor in advance.

Question: All of my runs tend to be on flat ground. What are the benefits of running hills?

Answer: Hill running is one of the best workouts to consider when training for races. It helps build muscle, improve speed, and can take your endurance to a whole new level. Picking the right hill to run can sometimes be a chore—it’s important to find one that isn’t too steep or too flat. You should find a hill that is about a quarter mile long and steep enough to provide a challenge, but flat enough that you aren’t putting too much strain on your ankles and shins, causing injury. Always begin a hill workout with a short 5-10 minute warm up. Loosen the muscles so that they are primed for a strenuous run. On your first hill workout, aim for 4 repetitions—run up the hill, jog down, repeat. Gradually increase repetitions when you begin to feel stronger and ready. The results of hill running are both physiologically and biomechanically rewarding. An avid hill runner will likely have an increased oxygen capacity, stronger and more defined leg muscles, and improved stride length and frequency (increased length from running uphill, increased frequency from running downhill). Another benefit from frequent hill running is the ability to “relax” when running, keeping the upper body from tensing up. Running hills for every workout is not recommended and can enhance injury risk, but adding a hill workout every 7-10 days is a sure way to reach noticeable and satisfying results.

About the author: David Tenner is the club manager at Anytime Fitness in St.Paul on Suburban Ave. To submit a question for future articles, please contact the author at david@anytimestpaul.com

Garden of Feed'em in the News

2011-08-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

Check out this link (Feed'em) for an article about our very own Garden of Feed'em at Conway Rec Center!

This garden, in its second year, is benefiting from a nice rainy summer and a lot of neighborhood energy.

Support the Eastside Riverfront Park

2011-08-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

I encourage you to contact the City Council in support of the Eastside Riverfront Park. The Eastside is a third of the City. We have some wonderful parks but we have no park where we can access the riverfront. Much of the City benefits from extensive access to the riverfront. The City Council is currently working to see if the Eastside Riverfront Park can be included in a package of parkland dedication. Kathy Lantry (651.266.8670 or kathy.lantry@ci.stpaul.mn.us) and Dave Thune (651.266.8620 or dave.thune@ci.stpaul.mn.us) are providing real leadership on this issue.

City policy calls for moving Warner Road/Shepard Road back from the river and creating park along the river's edge. In 2009, planning for a Warner Road bridge instigated riverfront park planning efforts. County Commissioner Jim McDonough, Public Works Department, Parks Department, City Council President Lantry, then-State Senator Mee Moua, and State Representative Sheldon Johnson had a number of working sessions to come up with the plan. St. Paul Parks and Public Works proposed an alternative design that would lower cost and provide more usable riverfront park land. The plan was vetted by the Dayton's Bluff District 4 Community Council and the District 1 Community Council. There was consensus that this was an important location for riverfront access on the eastside. The park design details will be worked out with the district councils when the site is acquired.

the potential location of Eastside Riverfront Park, off Warner Rd

There is an opportunity right now to acquire this parcel. The 5 acre site was owned by the City of St. Paul but was transferred to the Port Authority for $1. For many years Harvest States granin elevator #2 stood on this site. Harvest States grain elevator #1 was removed to create parks and housing at Upper Landing. Elevator #2 was removed and is used to store dumpsters and broken equipment on our riverfront. A cyclone fence prevents public access to the river. This is certainly not the highest and best use of our eastside riverfront.

We have an opportunity to have this property transferred back to the City because the Port Authority is not in compliance with a 2008 parkland dedication agreement. The City Council required the Port dedicate 3 parcels of parkland. In 3 years, the Port has not transferred any property. There are also compliance issues regarding wetlands and trails.

The Port Authority wants to retain a three acre parcel with a 1/4 mile of riverfront. The Port suggested a number of small stray undevelopable parcels as their dedication. These parcels should be transferred to the City because they are of no value to the Port and have some value for parks. The opportunity to create a 3 acre park with 1/4 mile of riverfront in the downtown section of the river will be lost when the Port retains that parcel. None of the other parcels offer an opportunity to create a comparable riverfront park. The 5 acre parcel on the eastside offers an excellent opportunity to provide riverfront access for a community that currently has no access at all.

Peggy Lynch, of the Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County, and I have been meeting with City Council members to encourage them to return this land to the City as park land. We have found the Council to be very supportive. They agreed to lay over this issue until next Wednesday so Kathy Lantry can negotiate better terms. Your encouragement and support to Kathy and to Dave Thune would be helpful.

Submitted by Tom Dimond, resident and park advocate

Sign Variance Request for Scenic Hills

2011-08-16T07:34:00.000-07:00

The owners of Scenic Hills Shopping Center are requesting a variance for the amount of signage allowed on their building. The allowable amount is about 500 sq. ft. and they are asking for about 1500 sq. ft.

The public hearing will be held on September 7 at 3p at City Hall (third floor Council Chambers). You can show up to voice your opinion, or contact yaya.diatta@ci.stpaul.mn.us with written comments. Also feel free to contact us with your opinions (district1council@aol.com).

National Night Out at Faith Alliance

2011-08-03T12:28:00.000-07:00

There were about 150 people who attended Tuesday's National Night Out community-wide event at Faith Alliance Church (520 N. Howard). We were treated to a cookout by the congregation and to bagels from Brueggers and frozen custard from Culvers. There was a bounce-castle, a food and school supply drive, and a drawing, as well as good conversation and lots of information from District 1 and from Honoring Women Worldwide, an organization that seeks mentors for kids at Battle Creek Middle School.

We were visited by the Police and Fire Departments, including an ambulance, and by Keith Hardy of the St. Paul School Board and Ellen Biales from Kathy Lantry's City Council office. A good time was had by all!

Check out these photos...

National Night Out at Afton View 7/29

2011-08-02T14:16:00.000-07:00

Because Ramadan started at the beginning of August, the residents at Afton View and Shamrock Court celebrated National Night Out on Friday, July 29. District 1 Community Council was lucky enough to be invited and we were joined by farmer, Susane Moua, Minnesota Project staffer, Theresa Heiland, and Minnesota Extension staffers, Ross Stafford and Joyce McGee-Brown.

Ross demonstrated how to make use of Susane's fresh produce with a cooking demonstration, and Joyce provided attendees with nutritional advice and information.

In addition, residents were visited by the Police and Fire Department, entertained by a local magician, and fed in community style by staffers at the apartments.

As you can see from this photo, we were there with info on recycling, and giving away apartment-style recycling containers - washable bags with compartments for paper and glass/cans. If you live in an apartment that recycles, contact us for a recycling bag like this!!

A good time was had by all!! Thanks for the invite, Afton View/Shamrock Court, and thanks to our partners, Susane, Theresa, Ross and Joyce!!

Airport Advisory Council

2011-08-01T11:01:00.000-07:00

The District 1 Community Council has been asked to submit a name for membership on the St. Paul Downtown Airport Advisory Council. This council serves as an advisory group to the Metropolitan Airports Commission on future airport use and development, looking at studies and evaluating complaints and problems; and sends out info to affected neighborhoods and so on.

We had a representative on the Council 2 years ago, but haven't had one since then. The term is a two year term and runs September 2, 2011 through September 1, 2013. We are looking for a representative and an alternate to serve on the neighborhood's behalf.

If you are interested in serving, please contact our office. -- 651.578.7400 or district1council@aol.com

Update on CP Rail Noise

2011-07-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

On July 12, Ellen Biales, of City Council Member Kathy Lantry's office, met with CP Rail officials to discuss the results of their months-long investigation of our neighborhood's noise complaints. Here is Ellen's summary of that meeting:

Herb Jones (CP Rail official) indicated that he has conducted a thorough investigation of operations at the CP Rail Hump yard. Many of the items that they investigated were based on suggestions made by neighbors who were interviewed as a part of the investigation. Here is brief list of some of the items they reviewed:

Hump elevation: The hump elevation has not changed since 1954 when the hump was installed. According to CP, the hump has remained the same with the same profile since that time. It has been suggested that the slope of the hump had somehow been changed when CP did some construction work in the hump yard a few years ago. The work that took place in the yard was the re-building of a pedestrian bridge. This work took place approximately 7 years ago. There was no construction on the hump at that time.

Break Shoes: according to their operations manager, they have been using the same manufacturer for their break shoes since the 1990’s. There has been no change in where the break shoes have been manufactured or the standards that the break shoes operate under. Their operations people have not found any discernable difference in the way the break shoes have operated over time. Mr. Jones indicated that CP is spending approximately $400,000 a year more than they would typically spend on shoes at this location to provide a higher quality break shoe.

Increased Activity: It has been proposed that perhaps there has been more activity coming through the yard and therefore more noise associated with it. Reviewing the traffic volumes from 2008 – 2010, CP has actually had reduced traffic coming through the hump yard. There was a reduction of 12-15% over the two year period. Mr. Jones did indicate that traffic volume is not the same at all times and there may be periods where the volume is higher than at others. This could lead to the perception of more noise. However, their overall volume is down.

Operator Differences: It had been suggested that different operators may have an effect on the way cars are released as they go down the hump. According to Mr. Jones, all of these functions are mechanized and essentially, all an operator would do is push a button to release the cars. There are no other manual operations that would account for a difference in noise levels.

Mr. Jones did indicate that they had interviewed employees of the hump yard for possible differences. The employees have not noticed a discernable difference in noise. There have also been no complaints from employees regarding excessive noise or changes in conditions at the hump yard. Mr. Jones indicated that the union and employees are typically vocal in reporting any conditions that they find unusual or concerning. Mr. Jones did indicate that ear protection is required for all employees.

Based on their review, CP can find nothing in their operations that would seem to account for an increase in noise over the past several years. They do believe that there could be other changes in the area and/or environmental conditions that could lead to a difference in the noise perception. One possibility they suggested was changes related to HWY 61 re-construction—although the reconstruction was not in the immediate area.

One neighbor had indicated that noise over the July 4^th weekend was worse than it has been in a while. When CP reviewed what had occurred that weekend, they discovered that the volume of traffic was down about 25% from the previous weekend. They are taking a look at what the weather conditions, wind direction and humidity were for that weekend—how that might have an effect.

Mr. Jones indicated that CP Rail is within the noise parameters established by the Federal Railroad Administration and their priority for noise mitigation efforts are going to be in locations where they are not in compliance. He indicated that CP Rail is already spending additional money at this location for noise reduction (such as the higher quality break shoes).

They are willing to continue working with the neighborhood to determine why the perception of the noise has changed, but they can not find any part of their current operation that would seem to indicate an increase or change in the noise that they are emitting. Again, they believe that the perception of the noise may be conditional (i.e. weather conditions) or related to some change in the surrounding environment. They are willing to entertain suggestions about other things to examine and they are willing to continue to review data at times when neighbors are perceiving the noise to be worse.

----

In addition, CP Rail officials met with some of the immediate neighbors and we are working on how we can observe the operations to understand better how things work. We want to be clear that there is not a change in the perception of noise, but there is an actual noise problem. Environmental conditions can affect generating the noise just as easily as (or moreso) changing the perception of noise.

As we move along in this process, we will keep you informed...

Gateway Corridor Update

2011-06-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

As of June 29, the Gateway Corridor Commission is only considering two options for the alignment of the line (whether light rail or bus rapid transit) through the eastside of St. Paul. Those two alignments are along 7th Street or along I-94. The earlier option of 3rd Street is now officially off the table - no longer under consideration.

Depending on HOW they do the total alignment, these could have profound effect on District 1... From what we have been hearing so far from residents, they prefer an alignment along I-94 all the way to about the 3rd Street bridge/Kellogg Bridge over the freeway. But here are the potential effects on us...

If the alignment is along 7th Street all through the eastside, the line will bypass our business district and, some feel, will spell the end for Sun Ray Shopping Center;
If the alignment is along I-94 to White Bear and then "jogs up" to 7th Street, it means the removal of homes along White Bear, and a busy transit way through residential areas.

Again, the blog post yesterday noted the upcoming open house where the options will be presented -- July 28 at Metro State Library, 5-7p -- this will be the time to weigh in on the potential alignments. If you don't speak up, everything will be decided for you!!

County Committees Need Volunteers

2011-06-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

Ramsey County is looking for residents to serve on a variety of committees:

Capital Improvement Program Citizens Advisory Committee - this group helps set priorities for capital expenditures in the County
Community Health Services Advisory Committee - this group advises the County Board and St. Paul City Council on health-related issues. They are looking for people who work in the health field.
County/City Homeless Advisory Board - this group advises the County Board and St. Paul City Council on issues related to homelessness, recommending policy changes to reduce homelessness.

Applications and more info is available by calling 651.266.8001 or at this website. All applications are due by July 22.

Gateway Corridor Open House

2011-06-29T08:56:00.000-07:00

There will be an Open House hosted by the Gateway Corridor Commission on July 28 from 5 - 7p at Metropolitan State University's Library. The meeting will be in the EcoLab room on the third floor of the library, which is at 645 East 7th St. (This is between Mounds Boulevard and Maria on Seventh Street...).

This open house will be an opportunity for the community to weigh in on the planning that has already been done to determine the location of the route and the mode of transportation (light rail, commuter rail, or bus rapid transit).

transit is an important feature of D1 life...

In addition to these open houses sponsored by the Gateway Corridor Commission (GCC), the District Council is also working to get neighbors informed about the project, the process, and how they can have an impact on what happens. So contact us! We are working to visit D1 apartment complexes to discuss the project, have a transportation task force that is tracking the work of the GCC, and have held meetings with a variety of neighbors about this.

We will also be working with Dayton's Bluff Community Council and other eastside organizations to apply for a grant for community outreach around this topic. If you are a member of an eastside organization and would like to be a partner in this effort, please contact our office.

Great River Park Additions - D1

2011-06-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here is an excerpt from an article by Bob Spaulding of Friends of the Mississippi River about the Great River Park planning that has just been completed...

Access to Pig's Eye Regional Park will at long last be made real, with a new connection extending from Warner Road near Childs Road, and continuing south to the north end of Pig's Eye Lake. A new parking area, small boat launch, trails and wildlife viewing areas will finally open up this key park space to the public. Connections may eventually be made from the park toward the east, and over or under US Highway 61.

The Highwood Bluffs will for the first time see an existing off-road trail woven along the bluffside, connecting areas laterally along the river corridor. In the far southeast corner of the city, a renewed Fish Creek park will complement intensive efforts in Maplewood to develop a greenway along Fish Creek.

(full article can be found at the link above...)

Last Call for Newspaper Submissions

2011-06-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

The District 1 News will be coming out in mid July. If you have articles, letters to the editor or advertisements, get them to district1council@aol.com by 4p June 22.

Our distribution has gone up to over 12,000 households in east St. Paul and a little into southern Maplewood...

Crime Prevention Tip

2011-06-20T11:25:00.000-07:00

When calling for police, fire, or ambulance assistance, an essential part of getting help quickly is for them to be able to find your address. This is very difficult if you do not have house and garage numbers on your property, or if they are spelled out rather than numbers. The address numbers don't need to be fancy or expensive. A District 1 business, True Value on Pederson Street (near Culvers) carries a variety of styles and would be happy to help you get the numbers you need.

Don't wait until an emergency happens to put those numbers in a clear, visible location so help can find where you are.

And remember to contact Pam for help forming a neighborhood watch group, or a block club - 651.578.7400 or district1cpc@aol.com

Submitted by Pam McCreary, Crime Prevention organizer

Making the Roads Safe for Everyone...

2011-06-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

The roads belong to everyone who travels along them, regardless of how that traveling takes place. But some of those travelers are more vulnerable. The car is more vulnerable than the truck. The motorcycle more vulnerable than the bicycle, and the pedestrian most vulnerable of all. But we have seen an increased number of bike/car accidents, in part because there are more bikes on the road.

The law is clear - bicyclists and motorists share responsibility for keeping everyone safe on our roads. There are eight "rules of the road" to improve bicycle safety:

kids learning bike safety in District 1

Bicyclists may ride on all Minnesota roads, except where restricted - such as interstates.
Bicyclists should ride on the road and must ride in the same direction as traffic.
Motorists must maintain a three-foot clearance at all times when passing a bicyclist.
Bicyclists must obey all traffic control signs and signals, just as motorists do.
Motorists and bicyclists must yield the right of way to each other.
Bicyclists must signal their turns and should ride in a predictable manner.
Bicyclists must use a headlight and rear reflectors when it's dark.
Bicyclists should always wear helmets and bright reflective gear.

For information about the "Share the Road" bicycle safety education program, bicycle crash statistics and resource materials, visit the ShareTheRoad website. Safety videos for adults and kids are available at the MNDOT website.

Submitted by MnDOT

PS We still have reflective vests for kids and a few bike helmets left (3 kids L). If you have a young person in need of this safety gear - contact our office (651.578.7600 or district1council@aol.com).

Commissioner McDonough Becomes SPYS Board Chair

2011-06-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

Our County Commissioner, Jim McDonough, is the new chair of the St. Paul Youth Services (SPYS) Board of Directors. Jim's father died when he was 13 and he says he benefited from the adults from among his extended family and friends who provided guidance as he continued to adulthood. When he was 25, he became a volunteer youth worker at Phalen Recreation Center, holding kids accountable for their behavior. Kids might not show how much they benefit from the positive influences of such caring adults, but they will benefit, just as he did, he said.

Commissioner McDonough joined the SPYS board in 2003 to provide him with a new setting for making positive differences in the lives of young people who need caring adults in their lives. The mission of the SPYS is to redirect youth who are starting to get in trouble with family, school or the law.

SPYS finds its home in our district and has programs that train adults who encounter youth with challenging behaviors and other programs that intervene with youth in middle schools to improve their classroom behavior, attendance and grades. SPYS is dedicated to improving the lives of young people. You can find SPYS on Wilson Avenue, just across the street from the SunRay Library.

Thanks to Jim for his service as SPYS Board Chair. We have a tradition of our local leaders serving on the SPYS board. Council President Kathy Lantry also serves on the board, as does our Saint Paul Public School liaison, Keith Hardy.

Submitted by SPYS

Henry Park in the early Summer

2011-06-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Resident Tom Dimond sent us these photos of Henry Park, Saint Paul's newest park, and a D1 treasure.

Thanks for the photos, Tom!

Mobile Farmers Market in D1??

2011-06-07T10:38:00.000-07:00

Our staff has been discussing the potential for having a small mobile farmers market come to the district once a week later this summer... we are discussing potential locations, days and times. This would be a single farmer with produce in a truck, located somewhere for a few hours a week.

What do you think? Would you use it? When would be a good time and where would be a good location?

And what about a potential CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) drop off site? If you could pay a farmer once a year (invest in her farm...) and then receive regular box of fresh, seasonal produce throughout the harvest season, would you join??

Let us know what you think... call Betsy at 651.578.7600 or email at district1council@aol.com

Burglary Prevention Meeting

2011-06-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

There were about 35 people who showed up to hear from our Crime Prevention organizer, Pam McCreary, and members of the Police Force on how to prevent home burglaries. Eastern District police Sergeant Paul Ford and 3 officers from the FORCE Unit were speakers at this event. (FORCE stands for "Focusing our Resources on Community Empowerment").

The meeting ended with information to those attending that there will be another meeting this summer to talk about proactive projects to keep people involved and to build community within our neighborhoods. This meeting will involve a showing of the TPT documentaries about the eastside, followed by discussion and brainstorming of what we can all do to take positive action in our area. Keep posted here and on our community calendar for date and time of this event!!

Call Pam McCreary for help with forming block clubs in your area - 651.578.7400 or district1cpc@aol.com.

Flint Hills Children's Festival

2011-06-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

The Flint Hills Children Festival and Family Weekend runs June 4 and 5 in the parks around the Ordway Center downtown St. Paul. This year features Project Bandaloop - performers suspended on the outside of the Lawson Building and visible from all the parks. Their performances will by June 1 & 2 at Noon, Friday the third at 11:45 and 12:45, Saturday noon and 1:45, and Sunday, June 5 at 11 and 1.

There will be free arts activities, art exhibitions, and these performances and others. The Ordway will have two stages and it is all FREE!! The Festival runs from 10a to 5p.

Check it out!

Submitted by the St. Paul Parks Department

Kick-off Picnic for National Night Out Planning

2011-06-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

On June 8 at Phalen Park Picnic Pavilion, the City of Saint Paul is holding an event to get you thinking about National Night Out. NNO is August 2 this year, so you need to start planning now if you want to block off your street and really host a wing-ding!

The picnic will be from 6 - 7:30p (rain or shine) and will include visits by Police Chief Tom Smith, the canine unit and mounted patrol, and the Fire Department. There will be FREE hotdogs, chips, cookies and beverages (while supplies last!) or you can bring your own dinner.

It is a chance to receive info on NNO, get your permits to close streets, and how to request a visit form the police or fire department to your event. You can also register for door prizes and receive free balloons and face paintings.

For more info, contact Pam McCreary at 651.266.5455 or at our office, 651.578.7400.

Let's see how many block parties and community events we can have this year!!

Battle Creek Gets a Makeover

2011-06-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

The Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District has been working on the bed of Battle Creek. The ravine was being cleaned and the flow of the stream improved.

If you noticed that the water was not flowing too well, it was because some of the rock meant to stabilize the banks was clogging the culvert. The long-term plan has been to restore the flow of the creek so that not so much of it is flowing underground.

The Watershed district expects the Creek level to increase this year.

Children's Art Gallery at Sun Ray Library

2011-06-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

Sun Ray Library will host an opening reception at 7p on Monday, June 13 to celebrate artwork created by students of Nokomis Montessori. Students in four classes studied books and illustrations by Eric Carle and Lois Ehlert. The first and second graders then created collages inspired by these well-known authors. Thirty five pieces of artwork and accordion books created by students will be on display through August 12. The evening of the opening will include refreshments and storytelling. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, contact the Library at 651.501.6300. The Library is located at 2105 Wilson Ave.

Submitted by the Sun Ray Library.

New methods to control Emerald Ash Borer

2011-05-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested in what the city is doing about the invasion of the emerald ash borer, they are holding an open house at the South Saint Anthony Recreation Center on June 6 from 6-7:30p. They are going to talk about their plans to release three species of non-stinging wasps that eat the larvae of the borer.

They are starting this release program at the location where the borer was first discovered in the city, but will be assessing where else they will release the wasps.

The South Saint Anthony Rec Center is located at 890 Cromwell, just north of University Avenue near Hiway 280.

Those unable to attend the open house can find additional materials on the use of the wasps (called biocontrol) at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's website. The City also has a website to explain their plans to remove trees and otherwise control this pest.

Submitted by the Saint Paul Forestry staff and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture

Point Douglas Road Closure 5/31-6/2

2011-05-26T12:07:00.000-07:00

Point Douglas Road will be closed from Lower Afton to Springside starting on May 31. The city is closing the street in order to replace a culvert at Elmwood.

They hope to have the excavation done on the 31st and the road restored on the 1st. The extra day is factored in just in case it rains.

In the evening, the road will be open for local traffic only.

Great Offer for Homeowners!

2011-05-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

Do you own a home in Saint Paul or know someone who does? Through the Sustainable Saint Paul initiative, the City of St. Paul is focused on finding creative ways for residents to conserve energy and save money. Our latest effort is the Energy Smart Homes program which provides no-interest loans to Saint Paul homeowners to replace old furnaces or boilers and install insulation.

Energy Smart Homes Program includes

no-interest loans up to $6500
available to homeowners of all incomes
no monthly payments - loans must be repaid in 30 years or when the home is sold
may require homeowners to pay for half of the cost of improvements out of pocket, depending on income
available on a first-come, first-served basis until the funds are expended.

Insulation will keep your house cooler in the summer as well as warmer in the winter. Plus some insulation contractors are less busy this time of year, so it is easier to schedule. All Saint Paul residents - including city employees - are welcome to apply.

Check out this website for program description and application.

Submitted by the City of Saint Paul

May 24 Safety Meeting!

2011-05-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

Come join your neighbors for supper and a discussion about how to prevent burglaries and deal with problem properties. There will be officers from the FORCE unit to talk about narcotics issues as well as the burglary prevention tips.

Pizzas donated by Papa John's, The Little Oven, Dominos, and Davanni's.

This event will be held at Progressive Baptist Church, 1505 Burns Ave. beginning at 6p with dinner.

Please join us!

City Council Redistricting Plan

2011-05-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

So this is the proposal for redistricting the City Council wards that the Charter Commission will forward to the full Commission next Monday. There will be a public hearing at that meeting beginning at 4:30p in room 220 of City Hall (15 W. Kellogg Blvd.). This is on Monday May 23. It is a plan that won't affect Ward 7, the ward we are in, but has impact on Wards 1 and 5, and Wards 3 and 2 a little bit.

The changes are needed as a result of loss of population in Ward 1 (the Frogtown area), which seems largely a result of the huge impact of foreclosures on that part of the city.

If you want to comment on the plan, next Monday is your last chance. State redistricting comes later...

Garden of Feed'em Community Garden

2011-05-16T13:09:00.000-07:00

This community garden, at the start of its second year, is taking on new members who want personal garden plots. Last year the focus was on communal plots whose produce went to the area food shelves. This year the garden is reaching its stride, continuing with an emphasis on sharing with others, but adding plots for individuals and families. The garden also is partnering with the Conway Rec Center, whose Kids' Rec Check program will have its own plot - a teaching and learning environment for area kids.

Members of the garden are expected to help out with the communal areas, and a small fee is expected from gardeners.

The district council helps out with some things for the garden, but this is a neighbor-run organization with a neighborhood focus. If you want to help out, you can contact the district council and we will put you in touch with Mary or Barb, the garden organizers.

Board Meeting Next Week - May 23

2011-05-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

So not only will we have a presentation by MnDOT about the Hiway 61 overlook at Burns and Upper Afton Rd., but we will also have staff from the Gateway Corridor Commission coming to tell us what the commission has in mind for our neighborhood as they plan a new transit corridor (without community input!).

Has the Metropolitan Council and its affiliate municipalities learned ANYTHING from the Central Corridor process?? Who gets to decide what is best for a neighborhood? The residents who live there or another county's planners??

I mean, we are just asking...

Come hear what the staffers have to say, and tell them what you think. Show up and speak out...

Monday, May 23, 6:30p at Battle Creek Rec Center, 75 S. Winthrop St.

CIB Projects - Public Hearing

2011-05-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

We submitted several projects for Capital Improvement Budget funds from the city - redoing Battle Creek Road through the park to Lower Afton, improved lighting on North Park, and improvement of the Ruth Street bridge over I-94.

The City submitted proposals for repaving all of Battle Creek Road, Ruth Street south of Burns, and improvements to Sun Ray Library. The North East Neighborhoods Corporation submitted proposals that would have provided funding for home and business improvements in the Eastview neighborhood and along White Bear Avenue.

If you are interested in speaking for or against these proposals, there will be a public hearing on June 6 at 6p in room 40, Lower Level of City Hall, 15 W. Kellogg.

After this hearing the City's CIB Committee will make its final recommendations about which projects to support. These will go to the Mayor for final approval later this year, with funding next year and in 2013.

So here's your chance to influence what money gets invested in our area by the City.

Transcendental Meditation Open House

2011-05-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

You have a chance to visit and tour the Transcendental Meditation Center at 399 Ruth Street on May 14 from 1 - 4p. They will be holding short seminars on the TM program for a variety of conditions, including PTSD and ADHD. There will be tours of the building at 1, 2 and 3p.

There is no cost and everyone is welcome. If you have been curious, this is your chance to satisfy your curiosity.

Submitted by B.J. Billman, director of Transcendental Meditation Center

And Another Clean Up Effort April 30!!

2011-05-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

bus stop after clean up

bus stop before clean up

Thanks to Highwood residents, the Wulterkens, and to the Daytons Bluff 1 by Youth community action program, we had 3 groups of about 30 people cleaning up Lower Afton Road between McKnight and Point Douglas Road last weekend. These hearty and dedicated souls braved the pouring rain to pick up litter and dumped garbage along the roadside and up the hillsides.

crews heading to work

dedicated efforts to clean it all!

There were groups of young people from all over the Metro area and from church groups working together with Ramsey County folks to undo what our carelessness did over the winter. As one of the organizers reports, by far the greatest amount of debris was concentrated near the bus stops along Lower Afton. We are trying to find businesses, apartment complexes, scout troops, groups of neighbors in these areas to adopt the bus stops for regular pick up.

Why are people dumping here?

bags of trash waiting for pick up

If you are interested in this community project, contact our office (651.578.7600) or go to the city's website to be connected to the Come Clean! program in our area.

Thanks to the Wulterkens for these great photos!!

Battle Creek Clean Up was on April 16

2011-05-02T11:36:00.000-07:00

In spite of having snow on the ground the day of the Battle Creek Regional Park Earth Day Clean Up, the 189 volunteers that braved the weather were able to collect close to 2 TONS of trash plus two yards of recycling from park land.

At the conclusion of the day, Sue Moyer, the event manager, announced that after eight years of coordinating the event, she has decided to step down. A replacement has not yet been identified. If you are interested in this volunteer position, please contact Angela Mens-Eastman with Ramsey County Parks and Recreation at 651.748.2500.

This is an important event for our area. Battle Creek Park is how most people in the rest of the City and County know us. Keeping it clean reflects well on us all. Please help keep this event going strong, following in Sue's footsteps. The whole district sends its thanks Sue's way for her dedication to this project over the last eight years.

Board Meets for Annual Retreat/Orientation

2011-04-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

The District 1 Board of Directors, with its two new directors, met at Culvers Restaurant on April 25 to discuss their roles and talk about their visions of our neighborhoods. This meeting is an opportunity to clarify responsibilities, learn about the structure and processes of the organization, and to have time to get to know fellow board members a bit better.

This year, we also had a presentation from a group of UMN Humphrey Institute students who have been researching the impact of immigrant populations on the neighborhood. With all the vacancies within our business district, we are interested to understand better how we can attract small business owners who may also be members of our immigrant communities. One thing we recognize, and that we have heard repeatedly from residents is that our business district lacks all kinds of diversity - too many fast food restaurants (or restaurants generally), and not enough retail or destination businesses. We have a very ethnically diverse neighborhood, but we lack a similar diversity in our businesses.

But how do we attract such business diversity when we are a neighborhood organization rather than a business association? Laura, Liz and Darrinn are developing some recommendations for us. And we need to look at the new census data to see if we can discern trends in our population - understanding these can help us do our job better.

When the final report is finished, we will post it on our website.

Next month, it is back to business and a regular community-oriented board meeting. We will be hearing from representatives of the Gateway Corridor and listening to YOU. Mark your calendars now - May 23 at 6:30p (location TBD shortly...).

Thanks to Doug and the crew at Culvers for their hospitality this month!

District 1 Residents Win Sustainability Awards

2011-04-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

On April 20, the City of Saint Paul held its Sustainability Awards for 2011. The Mayor and City Council sponsor and recognize residents and organizations that are doing work that helps our city become "greener" and operate in a more sustainable way. Our corner of the city was well-represented at the ceremony.

Pete Emeott, who died last month after a long battle with cancer, was posthumously awarded the Exceptional Environmental Steward Award. His family - wife, Judy; sons Brian and Joe and their families - accepted in Pete's honor. Pete organized the "Senior Pick Up" at District 1's annual Community Clean Up for 25 years. In the past couple of years he doubled the number of seniors we were able to help out in hauling their materials to the collection site. We serve more seniors in this program than any other district council. Also, as Pete knew his illness was terminal, he made sure that the next generation of volunteers were prepared to take his place. In addition to this work, Pete had been a driver for seniors through the Red Cross (while they still did this!) and he was also deeply involved in the Minnesota Street Rod Association. If it had to do with cars, driving, and helping people out - Pete was there.

In addition to Pete's award, the District 1 Come Clean Initiative won a beautification award. Resident Sue Moyer, also known for her work with the Battle Creek Park Clean Up, helped organize the Come Clean group, which includes Byerly's, Sonic and Taco Bell (Border Foods), Creek Point Apartments, and Boys Totem Town, as well as District 1. This initiative was done in cooperation with St. Paul Public Works and Kathy Lantry's office and has expanded city-wide. Our group picks up litter on the I-94 overpasses at White Bear and Ruth Street, and along Suburban Avenue. We are always looking for more partners!!

It is nice to see the city recognizing the hard work that residents and businesses on this far eastside of St. Paul are doing!!

Congratulations everyone! Now... what is the next thing we need to do??

Eastside Facility to be Converted

2011-04-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

Another eastside community asset for District 1 is being removed - Merrick Community Center at the Eastside Community Center, attached to Harding High School, will leave as a result of the trade of the Center from the City to the School System.

Check out this article at the Pioneer Press about it.

What social service agencies are going to be located in District 1 when Merrick leaves? We'll have the St. Paul Youth Services and the Conway-Battle Creek Living-at-Home/Block Nurse Program, and that's it...

Native Plant Expo and Market

2011-04-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 4 from 9a to 3p there will be a chance to learn more about how native plants can benefit your property. And there will be a chance to buy native plants from a variety of local growers. This will take place at the Community Pavilion at Rainbow Foods, 1201 Larpenteur Avenue West in Roseville.

Everyone is welcome to this free event, so bring your friends and neighbors to a celebration and sale of plants that are native to our area. The only charge will be for the plants you purchase.

(Editor's note: and maybe this will help the sediment problem in the Mississippi River, too!!)

Submitted by the St. Paul Audubon Society

Mississippi River Clean Up Plan Open House

2011-04-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

The National Park Service and Friends of the Mississippi River are co-hosting an open house to give members of the public a chance to learn about a clean up plan to decrease the sediment load, and to provide comments on the plan.

The open house will be held Wednesday, May 4 from 3:30-7:30p at the Merriam Park Library in Saint Paul (1831 Marshall Ave. at Fairview).

Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend, and pre-registration is not required.

There will be educational displays with agency staff on-hand throughout the event to answer questions and explain the project in detail.

Light refreshments will be available.


The clean-up plan should be released any day now, and will be posted with other project

background info at http://goo.gl/KEYxn. Also see the Friends of the Mississippi River's

website for additional information:

http://www.fmr.org/participate/events/clean_up_open_house-2011-05-04.

Submitted by the National Park Service

Planning Commission approves the Suburban lot Site Plan/CUPs

2011-04-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

This morning (4/15/11), the St. Paul Planning Commission approved the 4 conditional use permits (CUPs) that derived from the site plan for the 1891 Suburban Avenue car lot. The 3 CUPs for the auto specialty store and two drive-through fast food restaurants were approved unanimously on voice votes. The pawn shop CUP was more contentious.

At the core of the discussion was a brand new ordinance restricting the clustering of businesses that have the reputation/image of preying on the poor as they conduct banking-like transactions. This new ordinance is intended to keep payday (and other) check-cashing businesses, pawn shops and other institutions that have high transaction fees from coming to neighborhoods and locating within 1/4 mile of each other. The fear or experience is that a clustering of these types of enterprises lower property values and discourage other businesses from locating in the same area. The problem has been that neighborhoods with a large number of people living in poverty, who may not have banking accounts, have a concentration of businesses that charge high interest rates on loans, or large fees to cash checks.

In this case, the proposed pawn shop would be located less than 1/4 mile from The Piggy Bank - a money transfer/check cashing enterprise in Scenic Hills Center. The distance between them would be about 250 feet less than the required 1/4 mile. It is legal to MODIFY the distance requirement if certain circumstances warrant it. However, in this case, the proposal was coming just after the new ordinance took effect and several commissioners feared that approval of this CUP was setting a dangerous precedent.

District 1 had argued that the criteria allowing a modification were met, and that the proposal, with its $15 million in private investment, estimated 200 new jobs, and enhancements of the overall site plan - including a plan to deal with stormwater, was needed to help revitalize our business area. We had worked with the developer to outline restrictions that we felt would protect the neighborhood from some of the negative effects of the proposed development. The Zoning Committee, however, had recommended denial of the CUP, saying, essentially, that there was no testimony to say why the pawn shop couldn't be moved to the other side of the development, thus not needing the modification.

When the discussion of the motion to deny the CUP for the pawn shop began, one of the Commissioners, Bob Spaulding, offered an alternative to the restrictions that had been negotiated (it included all previous conditions, but added some more). Commissioners Spaulding, Oliver and Fernandez led the effort to produce the alternative and to urge its adoption. It was this alternative that was finally approved on a 12-4 vote with one abstention.

What is included in these conditions on the pawn shop? They can't buy, sell or deal in firearms at the location, the hours of operation are restricted, there is a restriction on the size the pawn shop can reach, there will be no outdoor sales, the presented site plan is what will be constructed, they will participate in a city-wide litter collection program (Come Clean!), the signage has to strictly comply with restrictions in our small area plan and in city code, and the CUP sunsets if the site is not developed in the manner presented within two years of the pawn shop starting operation.

The District 1 Community Council recognizes that not everyone in our neighborhoods is happy that this development will happen. We promise to be vigilant about the conditions imposed on the pawn shop. But we also feel that this is a major investment that will help us bring our Small Area Plan vision to fruition. The developer has listened to neighborhood concerns and has modified his plans repeatedly to deal with those concerns. We are hopeful that he will continue to be a good community member, and a good example to our other businesses. We are also hopeful that this influx of new jobs will help local residents find and maintain economic stability.

League of Women Voters holds District Council Presentation

2011-04-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, April 13, at 6-7:30p, the League of Women Voters will be holding a forum on St. Paul's District Councils. The gathering will be at 320 Griggs, the Edgecombe Recreation Center and is open to the public.

Several of the prominent LWV leadership team were involved in the development of the district council system back in the 1970s, and the League has expressed concern about the system in recent years.

At this gathering, Tait Danielson-Castillo, executive director of the Frogtown District Council, and Diane Wanner, the City's District Council Coordinator, will be presenting their perspectives on how the councils work.

Should be an interesting discussion...

Fitness Question and Answers

2011-04-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

Question: Is it beneficial to get my body fat percentage checked and, if so, what method provides the best result?

Answer: Whether or not you get your body fat checked depends on how meticulous you are when it comes to your own health and wellness. Some people are perfectly content to just workout and watch what happens. Others want to track and analyze everything and, as a result, like to have a starting point for body fat, amongst other things. If you’re in this latter group, then go ahead and get a test done. There are numerous ways to analyze your body fat percentage, from the very expensive to the ridiculously inexpensive, and the very accurate to the incredibly inaccurate. Some of the best methods include getting a DEXA scan, a Bod Pod measurement, or getting underwater weighed. However, these are the more expensive options, and require sophisticated equipment and skilled technicians. You could also try stepping on a Tanita scale, which uses something called bioelectrical impedance to determine your body fat percentage. Unfortunately, the accuracy is somewhat questionable with this method. When it comes to cost, accuracy, and practicality, you really can’t go wrong with a skinfold caliper test. It takes about 5 minutes, it might cost you $10-$50 (depending on whether a consult is included or not), and it’s reasonably accurate. Our personal trainers have done hundreds or even thousands of tests. And remember, the initial number isn’t necessarily all that important anyway. You just need a starting point—then, as long as that number trends down over time, that’s all that really matters, right?

Question: I’m a recreational basketball player and someone recently recommended plyometrics to me to enhance my performance on the court. Good idea?

Answer: Plyometrics involves training the neuromuscular system in order to enhance your ability to perform explosive movements. In other words, plyometric exercises are used to increase the speed and force of muscular contractions, so if you’re serious about improving all facets of your game, they would be a nice addition to your current training regimen. You just need to make sure you’re in good enough shape first. A good, solid fitness base is required, meaning you should be relatively strong, flexible, coordinated, and agile. The exercises tend to generate large forces thanks to the intense, repetitive movements, so the risk of injury can be high. It’s best to do plyometrics on a soft surface, and with supervision, since proper technique is of prime importance. You also want to be careful about what exercises you select if you’re over 250 pounds. Lastly, it’s ideal if you’re well-rested and injury-free before engaging in these types of workouts. Try to find a qualified trainer that can help you incorporate plyometrics into your training and, as always, make sure they have experience in this particular area.

Question: Being of college age, I’m curious about the latest guidelines when it comes to alcohol intake. Can you help me out with benefits (if there are some) and risks?

Answer: Absolutely! If you decide to consume alcohol (and I assume you have since you’re asking the question), the current recommendations would be no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. This is defined as “moderate consumption,” though this certainly isn’t the norm for college-aged folks. As you’re probably aware, excessive alcohol intake can lead to a whole heap of problems including alcoholism, high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides (blood fats), obesity, stroke, heart failure, and even some cancers. But here’s the good news. Moderate alcohol consumption does have its health benefits as well, though this list isn’t nearly as long. The potential benefits include a slight increase in HDL (good cholesterol) and some anti-clotting properties as well, which may have an effect on heart attack and stroke risk. In fact, several studies have linked alcohol to reduced mortality from heart disease, though we can’t be sure that other lifestyle factors weren’t the primary cause. Bottom line—only you can decide how much of a role alcohol plays in your life. Just be responsible, drink moderately (if at all), and don’t drink and drive!

Submitted by David Tenner the club manager at Anytime Fitness in St.Paul on Suburban Ave.

The Suburban Carlot Development

2011-04-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

You may have been reading in various media that the proposal to develop the Suburban Avenue carlot was turned down at last week's City Zoning Committee meeting.

the parking lot site of proposed development

Let's get the facts straight... there were 4 conditional use permits (CUP) requested as a part of the site plan for the development - 2 for fast-food restaurants with drive-thrus, 1 for an auto specialty store, and 1 for the pawn shop. The Zoning Committee voted unanimously to approve the first three of these permits, but voted 3-2 against the pawn shop CUP.

This is a recommendation that the Zoning Committee sends to the full Planning Commission, and the 4 permits will be voted on this Friday morning by the Commission. They may or may not abide by the Zoning Committee's recommendation. The Planning Commission meeting is NOT a public hearing, so, although people can go listen to the proceedings, they cannot speak at the meeting. Sometimes the developer is asked some questions.

Here is why the Zoning Committee voted against the pawn shop -- the City just recently passed a new ordinance that governs how close pawn shops can be to "alternative financial institutions" - such as payday check-cashing places. That distance is 1/4 mile. The proposed pawn shop is within that 1/4 mile distance by some 250 feet. The City put this ordinance in place to prevent a clustering of alternative financial institutions in particular neighborhoods - such organizations may charge exorbitant fees to cash checks, for example.

Because this proposal is coming so soon after the passage of this new ordinance, the Zoning Committee did not want to undo what had just been accomplished.

But every ordinance such as this allows for exceptions.

We will see if the whole Planning Commission thinks the way the 3 Zoning Committee members did. Even if they do, the developer could appeal the decision to the City Council.

New Video on Community Clean Ups...

2011-04-06T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to a city-produced video that explains what community clean ups are and why we do them. It also clearly explains the benefit to participants.

Enjoy!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0e1ohuKF9JM&hd=1

Submitted by the City of Saint Paul's "Come Clean" program (a program that was piloted in District 1 at the urging of community member Sue Moyer!!)

Great Park and Ride Meeting!

2011-04-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

Last night (4/5/11) we had a great meeting to talk about the Lower Afton Park and Ride. Metro Transit folks were there to explain their reasoning for proposing an expansion of the existing lot. D1 board members, Allen Lovejoy from the City of St. Paul, and Kathy Lantry's aide, Ellen Biales were also there to hear the community reaction.

The community reaction was unified in its objection to the proposal, stating very clearly why the proposal is a bad idea, and offering alternatives. In addition, members of the local Dakota community came to educate us all on the meaning of this area to their culture, and the impact the proposal would have on them.

The City has extended the 60-day period for reaching a decision on this proposal, with an expected hearing before the Planning Commission in May. All community members are invited to attend that hearing and speak their minds. The District Council will formalize its recommendation between now and the hearing, based on community input and our reading of the City Code.

We are hopeful that we can convince Metro Transit that their proposal is a bad idea AND against regulations. We are also hopeful that a true community process can make these types of decisions transparent, honest, and meeting the needs of everyone.

Look for more news here as we continue through the process. Thanks to everyone who participated - community members AND officials.

News from the Watershed District

2011-04-04T13:14:00.000-07:00

The Best Management Practices Cost Share Program has changed in your favor! Landowners, businesses, schools and government projects that work for cleaner water now only need to cover 25% of the total cost (up to our cap) and the District will cover the remaining 75%. Contact Julie at 651.792.7959 or at julie.vigness@rwmwd.org.

Also ATTENTION RAMSEY COUNTY RESIDENTS!! Abandoned (unused) Well Sealing Cost Share Program - unused wells could potentially allow water just below the ground to contaminate the deeper aquifers used for drinking water, thus threatening health, safety, and the environment. Sealing is done by a MN licensed contractor who will clear an unused well of debris and fill it with grout. For more info on getting your unused well sealed, for questions on eligibility or the cost share, contact Michael Goodnature at 651.266.7274 or go to www.co.ramsey.mn.us/cd/cost_share_funding.htm.

Finally, WaterFest needs YOU on May 21 between 10a-2p to help with various tasks. Volunteers get a free t-shirt and $5 coupon for the catered food at the event. Sign up to volunteer at www.rwmwd.org. Click on WaterFest then on the volunteer sign-up.

Submitted by the Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District

New Board Members Elected for 2011-2013!

2011-03-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

At last night's Annual Meeting, the attendees voted in a slate of candidates that included incumbents Phil Fuehrer, Stacey Van Patten, Sandy Rosbacka, Collins Dibaki, and Pastor Andy Berreth. In addition, newcomers Pauline Nixon and Gordon Westerberg became our newest board members. Both Pauline and Gordon live in the senior high-rise on Ruth and will add the perspective of those living in some of our large-scale rental communities. Welcome to them both, and we are happy to have all these board members serving the neighborhoods.

But we still have one vacant position on the board, so if you or someone you know is interested in serving until the next election, we can appoint to fill a vacancy.

Also last night, we heard the exciting work that our library, rec centers, faith communities and St. Paul Youth Services are doing for young people in our area. We have information from these folks in our office.

Finally, staff members from the Gateway Corridor Commission attended and talked to neighbors about the planning process for this transit corridor that will be coming in the next 10 years.

We had plenty of time for folks to talk with each other and with all these great organizations, to socialize and to celebrate.

We will be back to our regular community meetings in May (our board orientation is in late April...).

Thanks to everyone who worked on the event, who attended and presented, and who stood up to help guide our work!! And thanks to Conway Rec Center for hosting!

MnDOT wants Input on 50year plan

2011-03-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

"Minnesotans will help determine the state's transportation system vision for the next 50 years" (let's remind Metro Transit/Met Council of this on April 5 for our discussion of the Lower Afton Park and Ride!!). They are rolling out the Minnesota Go project from now through August 2011 to get residents' input on roads, bridges and trails, on airports, public transit and ports, and on how to finance local roads.

Submit your comments at www.minnesotago.org and visit the website to be updated on the process. There will be public workshops in May of this year as well.

Submitted by MnDOT (with comments by D1 staff...)

Transportation Alert!

2011-03-17T14:11:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota House will be holding public hearings to discuss a proposal to cut transportation funding in the state. This will affect the number and frequency of bus routes as well as fares.

If you are concerned about these issues, the hearings will be at 12:30p and 6;30p on Monday, March 21 in room 5 of the State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd, St. Paul.

Lower Afton Park and Ride

2011-03-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

There are plans afoot to expand the park and ride lot at Lower Afton and Hiway 61 by 70 spaces. We would like to get neighbors together with Metro Transit to talk about this. Give us a call (651.578.7600) if you are interested and tell us about your evening availability around the first two weeks of April.

Here's why this is significant...

The plans would eliminate all the trees between the current lot and the lift station. This will essentially denude the area of everything but brush.
Although there is a definite problem with lack of parking spaces for the number of commuters, we have been discussing moving the lot north of Lower Afton as a part of the Red Rock Corridor planning.
This is in the river corridor, is right in front of people's houses, and the area has just finished being torn up for construction of the new lift station (which resulted in the removal of a number of trees).

Finally, the city has apologized for not notifying us earlier, but we are trying to negotiate a delay in city consideration of Metro Transit's request -- we have a limited amount of time to inform people and get their responses.

The state, the county and the Met Council are having a hard time understanding how community processes are supposed to work. This is our neighborhood and we need to have an opportunity to give input on what happens here...

Call us...

Conway Totlot Planning

2011-03-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

The new planning for the totlot at Conway Park is underway. Residents and officials from Parks have started thinking about where, what and how improvements will go into the space between the rec center and the library.

For updates, check out this link.

Thinking College Early Fair

2011-03-09T11:49:00.000-08:00

Saturday March 12 from 9a to 12:30p there will be a Fair at Harding High School to encourage young people to think about college and how to get there. Admissions, scholarships and financial aid, representatives from state, community and private colleges, including historically black colleges and universities - it's all there!

There will be free lunch, door prizes, and child care available.

This is a collaboration between Saint Paul Public Schools and our very own Progressive Baptist Church. There is a strong connection here between District 1 and this event, too, because our board member, JoAnn Clark is the driving force behind this event.

Here is a link to a story about JoAnn and Progressive Baptist's efforts to get kids to think about college.