Cancelling the State Fair has at least one benefit: It gives Saint Paul a chance to maximize this summer and rebuild all of Como Ave. between Hamline Ave. and the Raymond/Cleveland intersection now. Originally, work was going to be split between 2020 and 2021. Now, construction is scheduled to begin in July and finish by the end of October, says project manager Don Pflaum. Trees will be planted and other landscaping finished in spring 2021.

The reconstruction includes building the Como Avenue Trail along the entire 2.5-mile stretch on the north side of Como. That off-street trail for bicycles and pedestrians is part of the Saint Paul Grand Round. Reconstruction also includes sewer work and reconfiguring much of the road itself.

More than a decade ago, District 10's Environment Committee, under the leadership of Chet Mirocha, created a "tree trek" in Como Park. The intent was to give visitors an appreciation of the variety of tree species planted in the park. Eighteen trees were identified with plaques. Most of the trees and markers remain.

Chet Mirocha died in 2019, but his daughter Stephanie -- herself a master naturalist -- is reviving his legacy. She will lead a tree trek next Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m.-noon. Gather on the west side of Lexington, near the stone footbridge that is near the labyrinth and pedestrian bridge.

Participation is free, but you must register. In accordance with pandemic guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health, this event will be limited to 20 people. Thought the event is outdoors, social distancing and masks will be required (masks will be available for those who do not have them). Dress for walking and the weather. (The rain date is July 11, 10 a.m.-noon; if Department of Health guidance become more restrictive, the event will be cancelled.)

We can't get together as a group, but that doesn't mean we can't create a cleaner Como Lake on our own. The Como Community Council is creating DIY kits so your household (or those in your quarantine bubble) can pull trash from the water and shoreline on your own schedule this week.  There's even a little something extra for you when you finish.

 

For the season's first  do-it-yourself version of our Como Lake Clean-Up, we've  got two options lined up. Either way, sign up here:

Staying "safe" during the pandemic no longer means we have to stay home all the time. To help get rid of the cobwebs, the Como Community Council has created a Como Scavenger Hunt. This family friendly activity helps you discover your neighborhood, past and present; get some fresh air; and exercise your body and mind along the way.

There are two hunts: one east of Lexington, one west of Lexington. Do them at your own pace until July 31. We'll enter all completed lists into a drawing for gift cards to District 10 restaurants. Download the lists

Get real: For those of us who don't experience racism and unequal treatment every day, the Saint Paul Public Library is assembling a collection of books, audio books, and long and short videos to help us get a better understanding of the day-to-day truths many of our neighbors face.

Saint Paul Parks and Recreation has opened all playgrounds, outdoor sports courts, and skate parks. Fitness in the Parks is back with a limited schedule through Aug. 31. Northwest Como Recreation Center is running free virtual dance classes for youth and teens Mondays-Thursdays beginning this Monday, June 22. And North Dale and 14 other recreation centers begin Summer Space outdoor programming this Monday as well, for youth entering grades 1-6. 

Northwest Como's "drop in" dance classes include musical theater choreography, creative movement, jazz/lyrical/ballet, and hip-hop; registration is required. 

 

Summer Space's free programs vary by location. They will be two-week blocks of structured activities that allow participants to connect with their peers while keeping their "space."  North Dale's activities run Mondays-Thursdays, 9 a.m.-noon, from June 22-July 2, July 6-16, July 20-30, and Aug. 3-13. Registration is required: You must contact the recreation center directly weekdays from noon-3 p.m.; call North Dale at 651-558-2329.

Don't get too excited, though: Park users are reminded that playground structures, picnic tables, park benches, and other equipment are not sanitized. Recreation centers and other buildings remain closed; that includes restrooms. Permits for picnics and other private events are cancelled at least through July 6. Como Park Pool, splash pads, and other aquatic facilities are closed. Drinking fountains and ornamental fountains are shut off; that includes the Hamm Waterfall and Schiffman Fountain in Como Regional Park. The details