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Como Lakeside Pavilion Visioning Presentation | |
At this week's D10 Como Community Meeting we welcomed Tyler McKean, Parks and Recreation Program Supervisor, and Ward 5 City Council President Amy Brendmoen to share some conversation sparking renderings of potential changes to the Como Lakeside Pavilion.
The Pioneer Press and Star Tribune are reporting the story, but you can watch the meeting recording and access the presentation slides, including more renderings and detailed conceptual floor layouts, on the D10 Website!
Note that this is intended to kick-off a discussion about the space, not to be confused with approved plans moving through final processes.
Still pretty exciting though.
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What's Happening at the Fairgrounds? | |
Como Community Outside the Gates | |
The Fair Neighbors Safety Initiative has been preparing for the 2023 fair. All are welcome at their upcoming meetings:
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August 23, 6:30pm, State Fair Eve - Gathering at the garden at Midway and Arona
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August 24, 9:00am- 1st of daily 9am State Fair morning meetings, garden at Midway and Arona
You can sign up here for their newsletter, including daily fair-time updates. They also have a WhatsApp group for emergency messaging during the fair, you can get connected by attending a meeting or responding to a newsletter.
They're looking for more volunteers! Help with trash pickup, serve as a communication connector for your block, or just be available to be a visible and helpful presence in the neighborhood. Sign up to volunteer here.
Thanks so much to Kate, Jennifer, and Cindy, the volunteer neighbors who lead the Neighbor's Safety Initiative who put so much time and effort into helping to smooth the myriad rough edges that come with living next to the fair!
State Fair Overlay District?
D10 Como Community Council has a “Neighbor’s Guide” to the special rules and regulations of the State Fair Overlay District in effect during the fair, including detailed maps, links to specific ordinance texts related to Parking (Yard, Street, and Alley), Vending & Peddling, Golf Carts, and who to call to report violations.
Bike to the Fair? Note that the South Bicycle Parking lot has moved to the Loop Gate (near the Miracle of Birth building), they say it's larger than the old location to so it's okay to tell your friends.
Also: The Milk Run 5K, traditionally held during the first Sunday of the fair, was moved to the Kickoff to Summer event over Memorial Day Weekend, so it won’t take place during the fair.
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Como Community INSIDE the Gates
This year we're also featuring Como community members who are showcased AT the Fair. We're hoping to hear from some more Como Fair artisans, bakers, and growers in the coming week, but here's a list of Como Community to add to your Fair dance card:
Como Competitors
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Early Weinert (3rd Grade) - K-12 Diorama Contest in the Education Building
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Amy Marshall - Quilt on a Stick (boy sleeping with his cow in morning light) in the Creative Activites Building
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Bridget Mans - Crop Art (picture of a bird) in the Agriculture and Horticulture Building
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Aaron Barnes & Morgan Weinert - Peppers (Group 4, which are put out Sept. 2) in the Agriculture and Horticulture Building
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Bonus: Sheila Mullen (D10 Staff's Mom) - Choc. Chip Cookies & Apple Bread in Creative Activities Building (She moved to Woodbury for some reason, don't hold that against her)
Como Exhibitors
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Jennifer Victor Larsen - Donate Good Stuff (Where to donate (almost) anything and make 10x the impact of recycling) - Eco Experience Sustainability Stage - Aug. 29 @ 10am & Sept 4 at 4pm
Como Vendors
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Stephanie Mirocha (Como Tree Trek Guide!) - Otter Creations (paintings and jewelry) Center Aisle of Merchandise Mart
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Shevek McKee (D10 Staff) - Kiwanis Malt Shop* just north of 4H building. (*A handful of shifts, come let Kiwanis know you missed them at the Ice Cream Social this year!)
Do you vie for a coveted blue ribbon with your peppers, baked goods, crop art, or other artisan activities?! Do you have a stall where you sell your art or other creations?
We'd still love to hear from you and share your efforts with the community. It's always fun to have a specific muffin or collection to look for! You can send your name, Fair entry, and where it can be found (at least the building) to district10@district10comopark.org.
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State Fair Grandstand & Fireworks Schedule
Below is a schedule of estimated times for the nightly fireworks display during the 12 days of the State Fair.
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Thurs. Aug. 24 - The Black Keys w/ The Velveteers @ 7pm - Fireworks: 9:30pm
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Fri. Aug. 25 - THE CHICKS w/ Wild Rivers @ 7pm - Fireworks: 10:15pm
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Sat. Aug. 26 - Keith Urban w/ Lindsay Ell @ 7pm - Fireworks: 9:45pm
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Sun. Aug. 27 - Boyz II Men & Chaka Khan w/ NUNNABOVE @ 7pm - Fireworks: 10:20pm
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Mon. Aug. 28 - Happy Together Tour 2023 @ 7pm - Fireworks: 9pm
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Tues. Aug. 29 - Brandi Carlile w/ Wynonna Judd @ 7pm - Fireworks: 10:30pm
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Wed. Aug. 30 - Yung Gravy w/ bbno$ @ 7pm - Fireworks: TBD
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Thurs. Aug. 31 - DURAN DURAN w/ Bastille, Nile Rodgers & CHIC @ 7pm - Fireworks: 10:55pm
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Fri. Sept. 1 - Jonas Brothers w/ Lawrence @ 7pm - Fireworks: 9:45pm
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Sat. Sept. 2 - The Hold Steady w/ Bob Mould Band & Dillinger Four @ 7pm - Fireworks: 10:55pm
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Sun. Sept. 3 - MSF Amateur Talent Contest Finals @ 7:30pm - Fireworks: 10:30pm-ish
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Mon. Sept. 4 - Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour @ 3pm - Fireworks: 9pm
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D10's Know Your Como Featured in the Midway Monitor
In case you missed it on your doorstep this month, the Neighborhood History Project's work relating to racial covenants had a front page write up in the Midway Monitor.
You can read the digital version of the story here on their website.
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Get Involved: Volunteer at the Citywide Drop-off Event Sept. 16 @ Fairgrounds
St. Paul Public Works Department partners with district councils to organize annual citywide drop-off events for residents to properly dispose of large refuse items and recyclable materials not collected via the residential recycling program. District 10 helps coordinate the event held annually at the State Fairgrounds.
Volunteers get a voucher for a free drop-off and there will be food provided. Sign up for a shift on our Volunteer Registration Form!
Senior Pick-Up
As part of our coordination, we facilitate at-home pick-ups for qualifying items for community seniors. *If you are a senior in the Como area and would like your items picked up from your home, email district10@district10comopark.org no later than Monday, Sept. 11, 2023. Everything must be outside in front of your house by 8am Saturday, Sept 16, 2022. Rates apply.
Rosh Hashanah
It has come to our attention that this event is scheduled on Rosh Hashanah. We understand this makes it very difficult for those who celebrate to participate. If you are unable to participate because of Rosh Hashanah celebrations and have items you would have liked to drop off, please reach out to district10@district10comopark.org by Monday, Sept. 11. There are alternatives for a handful of the items accepted at the event we can direct you to, and other requests will be considered for addition to our Senior Pick-Up. As with Senior Pick-Up requests, each will need to be individually considered against the logistical capacities of our volunteer team and fees would apply per the pricing list linked below.
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D10 On-Demand
Through the miracle of modern technology, most of our Como community meeting presentation recordings are available to view on our website. You don't even have to program your VCR!
Property Related Variances – 8/15/2023
This past week at our Land Use committee meeting we welcomed David Eide, Zoning Inspector from St. Paul Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI) who shared about the processes people can expect when needing approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals on things like home additions, signs, and parking. View the recording here on our website.
You might not be on the edge of your seat with this one, but you'll be well prepared if your dream garage/patio/business signage needs a variance!
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Get Involved: Help Lyngblomsten Residents Enjoy the State Fair!
Lyngblomsten Care Center residents are excited to make their yearly trip to the State Fair! They are in need of volunteers to help push residents to and around the fair on Thursday, August 24. They plan to leave the care center around 9:30am and will return by 1pm. Volunteers will receive free admission to the fair, as well as a hand stamp that allows for re-entry that day. Please consider helping us treat our residents to this fun event, and spread the word to your friends and neighbors!
Please contact Jen: jemerson@lyngblomsten.org or 651-632-5406
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MN SEED Project has grown this season like all seeded adventures!
At the end of July the MN SEED Project launched a new website where you can find the latest events and registration, news, and more going forward. The MN SEED project community also has a new email (mnseedproject@gmail.com), Facebook page and Instagram account. We hope you’ll like, follow and give a shoutout about our growth across social media!
This Saturday you’ll find the MN SEED Project at the Frogtown Green Climate
Carnival where you can explore seeds and choose a pollinator tattoo to rep your native garden and climate forward actions.
And when you’re at the Minnesota State Fair on Sunday 8/27 9-11am, stop by the UFGA common table to check out the MN SEED Project with a focus on the backbone of the prairie, native grasses!
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Last Chance: Under The Lex
5-6pm Wednesday, Aug. 23 under the Lexington Pkwy bridge (near the Streetcar Station, 1224 Lexington) Free
St. Paul resident Youa Vang came across the path that goes under Lexington Parkway a few years ago, was inspired to use the space as a stripped down music venue, applied for funding and is now coordinating small Under The Lex concerts 5-6pm Wednesday afternoons through August 23.
The Remaining Lineup:
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Get Involved: Midway Parkway Gardens
All are Welcome!
Please join us this summer for planting, weeding and community building.
Location: Hamline and Midway Parkway
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Get Involved With Churchill Gardens! All Are Welcome!
Please join the Churchill Gardens garden stewards to keep Churchill Gardens beautiful! We will have monthly group weed events now through October. Come when you can! There’s no commitment necessary to stay the full session or to come each time. We’d love to see you there!
When and Where
- Every 2nd Monday of the month from 5pm-7pm at Churchill Gardens
- At the intersection of Van Slyke Ave and Churchill St, south of Como Lake
- Mark your calendars for September 11 | October 9
The Fine Print
Please come ready to bend, stoop and walk on sometimes uneven terrain. Trowels and some gloves will be available for people to use. You’re welcome to bring your own. Attendees will need to sign a consent and liability waiver when they arrive, and wear a hi-vis vest if available. People under the age of 18 need to be with an adult. Please bring your own water.
Questions?
Contact Alison Goetzman at alison.goetzman@gmail.com
Follow Churchill Gardens on Facebook
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2023 CRWD Lake Como Walking Tours
September 12 (Tuesday) & 18 (Monday), 5:30-7pm starting at Como Lakeside Pavilion
Experts Britta Belden and Bob Fossum from Capitol Region Watershed District (CRWD) will lead two educational tours along Como Lake’s walking path that highlights the lake’s history, its dynamic urban ecosystem, and the water quality issues facing it. They will also provide an in-depth overview of projects aimed at improving Como Lake (both past and future) including shoreline restoration efforts, aquatic plant control, fishery management, and major in-lake and watershed phosphorus reduction projects.
Come with your questions and enjoy a fall evening at Como Lake!
Please register in the links below or by calling CRWD at (651) 644-8888. There is a limit of 30 people per tour. Sign-up will be open until capacity is reached.
The tour will be weather dependent. An event cancellation will be sent out via email the day of the tour if storms are expected.
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Como Parks & Rec Programming
Rec Center Fall programming registration is now open. View the programming guide here.
Japanese Obon Festival Aug. 20 @ Como Conservatory - $3-$5 Advanced Admission Ticket Required
Parks and Rec Athletics registrations have been doing well, which is further increasing the need for referees.
Learn more and apply here (ages 16+).
North Dale Rec Center (1414 N. St. Albans)
Ongoing Drop-In Programming
Northwest Como Rec Center (1550 N. Hamline)
*Registration Required
St. Paul Parks & Rec Fee Assistance Program
The City of Saint Paul operates a special program that helps families pay for Parks & Recreation youth classes and activities. Fee Assistance can be requested by families who meet program requirements when registering for youth activities. To be eligible for the program, youth must live in Saint Paul, be 18 years old or younger, and qualify for free and reduced lunches.
Fee Assistance can be used toward most recreational sports or activities offered by Saint Paul Parks and Recreation. To view the online catalog of all available activities offered, click here.
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Neighborhood Notes
Upcoming License Renewals*
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Duke's Car And Towing (977 Front Ave): Auto Repair Garage License is up for renewal Oct. 18. Anyone with input should email the Como Community Council or contact the office of Ward 5 Council Member Amy Brendmoen: ward5@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
*While license renewal dates serve as community reminders, feedback on a business license can be submitted at any time.
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MnDOT hosting public meetings to get feedback on Rethinking I-94
WHAT: MnDOT to host a series of virtual and in-person public meetings to promote, answer frequently asked community member questions, and solicit corridor resident and regional stakeholder feedback relating to the Rethinking I-94 alternatives released last month.
WHO: Rethinking I-94 project leaders and technical experts will host a series of meetings for interested members of the public.
WHEN: A series of eight public meetings will be hosted both virtually and in-person in late August and mid-September.
Wednesday, Aug. 23 – Virtual meetings
Register on the Rethinking I-94 project webpage.
Noon-1pm & 6-7pm
Thursday, Aug. 24 – Minneapolis, In-person
Elliot Park Recreation Center, 1000 E 14th St, Minneapolis
7:30-9:30am, 11am-2:30pm, 6-7:30pm
Thursday, Sept. 14 – St. Paul, In-person
Rondo Community Library, 461 Dale St. N, St. Paul
7:30-9:30am, 11am-2:30pm, 6-7:30pm
Note: Interpreters will be present at all meetings. The virtual presentation portion will be made available on the Rethinking I-94 project website after the event. There will be a children’s activity area at both in-person events. More information can be found on the Rethinking I-94 project webpage.
CONTEXT: In July MnDOT released the initial set of alternatives to the public, inviting community members to share their thoughts and insights via a survey. The initial set of alternatives are high-level, meaning that more details will be developed as feedback and additional information is received. This series of public meetings is part of ongoing efforts to engage the people that live, work, and play along the corridor between Minneapolis and St. Paul as MnDOT gathers their insights to determine the direction of Rethinking I-94.
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'Make & Take' Rain Barrel Workshops - $45
Friends of the Mississippi is offering two rain barrel workshops in St. Paul, Sundays, Sept. 17 & Oct. 8, 1-3pm at the Wellstone Center at Neighborhood House
Installing a rain barrel is a simple, high-impact way to save water and help protect the Mississippi River and its watershed.
Registration is $45 and covers the barrel, kit and class. Both classes are identical, pick the date that works for you.
Heads up: These workshops often sell out, so early registration is highly encouraged.
If you have difficulty with the registration, or have any questions, email volunteer@fmr.org.
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Love a Como Business? 2023 Saint Paul Business Award Nominations Deadline Extended
Community members, residents, employees, and business-owners are invited to visit stpaul.gov/bizawards to nominate, apply, explore past winners, and gain insight into the categories and criteria for submitting nominations or applications for the award.
The 2023 Business Awards nomination period has been extended through September 15 at Noon. Applications and nominations are open to all type of businesses. A Selection Committee made up of past award recipients will decide on the winners.
Award Categories:
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Alice O'Brien Award - Honoring a woman-owned business that is committed to equity and empowerment
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Good Neighbor Award - Honoring a business that shows a dedication to improving the community.
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Traditions Award - Honoring a business that has been active in Saint Paul for at least 20 years.
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People’s Choice Award - Honoring a business that is recognized for its excellence by Saint Paul residents.
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New Kid on the Block Award - Honoring a business that has opened in Saint Paul within the last five years.
Nominations must be submitted no later than September 15, 2023, by Noon. Find more information and nominate a business at stpaul.gov/bizawards.
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Public Health Presents Series: Food Security Needs
Ramsey County invites community members to Public Health Presents on Wednesday, August 23, Noon-1:30pm at the Rondo Library (461 Dale).
Learn how Ramsey County facilitated a Food Security Needs Assessment using qualitative and quantitative data to address their role in supporting greater food security. The assessment was rooted in community engagement and included broad stakeholder input from partners across the food system.
The presentation will share the process and the findings of the assessment and discuss next steps for a county to combat food insecurity. The results are being used to build a more resilient food system for all residents, especially those who are most vulnerable to food insecurity, such as our racially and ethnically diverse communities.
Presenters:
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Carissa Dillon, MPH, RD, Ramsey County Planning Manager
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Sarah Auten, MA, Ramsey County Planning and Evaluation Analyst
What you will learn:
- The assessment process of qualitative and quantitative data collection, with a particular focus on community engagement and how to utilize county-specific primary data for strategic planning.
- How to apply findings to address food insecurity incorporating a race and health equity lens.
- A general understanding of the general status of food insecurity on Ramsey County community members.
The presentation will include questions and discussion.
Registration is required: ramseycounty.us/PHpresents
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Ramsey County Environmental Resources
New yard waste site policy: Dumping trailers
Starting Sept. 1, 2023, mechanical or hydraulic dumping trailers and dump trucks will not be allowed at Ramsey County yard waste sites - this includes both residential and commercial equipment. Dumping trailers and dump trucks pose safety and contamination concerns and are primarily used by commercial services, which are not permitted at our yard waste sites. If you have a dumping trailer or dump truck, you should use a commercial yard waste site.
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Become a Recycling Ambassador
Registration for the fall Recycling Ambassador Program training is now open. Recycling Ambassadors undergo a six-week training to learn more about environmental health. Using knowledge gained, Recycling Ambassadors volunteer 20 hours or more annually to encourage others to reduce, reuse and recycle. Topics covered in the training include:
- Waste systems in Ramsey County.
- Composting.
- Climate change.
- Environmental justice.
- Household hazardous waste.
- General recycling.
The trainings will take place virtually using Zoom from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. every Wednesday from Sept. 20 -- Oct. 25.
Volunteer activities include tabling at community events, participating in neighborhood clean-ups, assisting at monthly Fix-It Clinics and more!
Learn more and sign up.
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Have something you'd like us to consider sharing in our newsletter? Email us at district10@district10comopark.org | |  |
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Support Community Engagement
Do you appreciate the work D10 Como Park does in the community? Consider supporting D10's work by making a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!
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