February 16, 2024 | Friday | | |
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Saint Paul Plowing & Salting Residential Streets
City did not declare a Snow Emergency
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Saint Paul did not declare a Snow Emergency this week. When it began snowing on Wednesday, Public Works crews began plowing and salting the drive lanes on arterial and collector streets throughout the city.
Starting at 10:30am Thursday, crews began doing “center cuts” and salting residential streets where needed.
Center cuts are a snow plowing technique in which crews only plow in the center drive lanes between parked cars. This allows people to drive more easily on residential streets to access the main arterial streets. Residents can expect snow and minor windrows in and along the parking lanes of residential streets.
“Last winter we heard from residents they would like us plowing residential streets sooner so they can get more easily in and out of their neighborhoods,” said Sean Kershaw, Director of Saint Paul Public Works. “By not declaring a Snow Emergency, we are plowing residential streets a day earlier and are able to leverage the warmer pavement conditions, sun, and warmer temperatures forecast for later this week to address snow compaction in the drive lanes.”
The City of Saint Paul does not typically salt residential streets; however, Public Works will use a minimal amount of salt products to help melt and address ice and snow compaction in the drive lanes on residential streets.
Crews will continue to plow center cuts and salt residential streets through Friday. Because this is not a Snow Emergency residents will not be ticketed and towed. If people are able to move vehicles off streets, it is appreciated by the plow drivers, and they will attempt to clear snow to the curb where possible.
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WINTER REMINDERS
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Shovel your sidewalk. Saint Paul City Ordinance requires snow and ice to be removed from sidewalks within 24 hours. Corner property owners should shovel curbs, walkways and crosswalks to the street.
- Do not push snow out into the streets.
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Do not place recycling and garbage carts in the street. Carts should be kept in the boulevard or at the end of the driveway. (This is true even when there isn't a snow emergency)
- If you are able, please shovel hydrants out and clear snow and ice off storm drains to prevent street flooding.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Join Us Next Week
D10 Community Meeting- 3rd Tuesdays - Feb. 20, 7pm
Hybrid on Zoom and @ Como Streetcar Station (1224 Lexington Pkwy)
The third Tuesday of every month hosts our Land Use and Board/Organizational topics for discussion and planning, as well as guest presentations related to those issues. Occasionally time-sensitive Environment and Neighborhood Relations committee items are included on the agenda as well.
Next week we will host Ross Currier, Economic Development Principal Project Manager
St. Paul Planning and Economic Development Department (PED), to hear about the upcoming 2024 Neighborhood STAR Grant. We will also consider support of a Joint Transportation committee letter Re: Snelling Ave, the 2024 Regional Parks Cleanup hosting, as well as some other organizational action items.
If you're interested in serving on the D10 Board, a great first step is to come join us at our meetings, open to everyone! You can also view an overview of responsibilities and find a board member application here.
Thanks to everyone who came out to our D10 Social at Half-Time Rec this week! Keep an eye on this space in the newsletter for details about the next social!
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Como Neighborhood History Project Presents: Unveiling the Untold: Meet St. Paul's Black Rosies, WWII Heroes Who Made Munitions and History
Sat, Feb. 24, 10am-Noon @ Como Streetcar Station (1224 Lexington Pkwy)
Go beyond the headlines and learn about unsung heroes of World War II: Saint Paul’s Black Rosies. Como neighbor Jeremiah Ellis takes you inside the Twin Cities Ordnance Plant, where African American women made bullets fly and shattered racial barriers. Their courage offers powerful lessons for our time. Discover their inspiring narratives, accentuated by pictures from their lives. Don't miss this chance to honor their legacies and learn from their resilience.
You can read more about Mr. Ellis’ work in this Star Tribune article from last year.
Questions: info@district10comopark.org
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Give Blood in Como
Wednesday, March 6, 9am-3pm @ Como Zoo
D10 Como Park partners with the American Red Cross and the Como Zoo & Conservatory to host community blood drives at the Zoo. Appointments are now available for our next event: Wednesday, March 6, 9am-3pm. Space is limited, reservations required.
Please consider giving blood, with so many still working from home, workplace blood drives have all but vanished, these community drives make a huge impact!
DONOR PROMOTION: Give 3/1 to 3/24 for $10 e-gift card for pet supplies and chance at $3K gift card!
If you’re interested in volunteering at the check-in table, you can sign-up for an opening on our volunteer schedule or email district10@district10comopark.org. The drives are split into two shifts of two volunteers each, 9am to Noon and Noon to 3pm. It’s light work and a great way to connect with another neighbor.
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Join the D10 Como Community Council Board in 2024
Here’s your chance to tackle that new year's resolution to get more involved: Several seats are up for election in April to the District 10 Como Community Council board.
It is highly recommended that you join us at some monthly meetings, which are always open to all community members, before making the decision to commit to a board position.
These positions serve two-year terms, through April 2025. To get on the ballot, fill out an application at District10ComoPark.org/Elections. That’s where you can also learn more about the roles and opportunities of board members. The filing deadline is Sunday April 1. The election ends April 15. If you have any questions or would like to know more about being a board member you can reach out to district10@district10comopark.org.
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Not Too Late: Plastic-Free Challenge
The Plastic-Free Challenge is a month-long effort thru February 29 to reduce plastic consumption, especially single-use plastics, in ways that fit best in your lifestyle and have the most impact on reducing your footprint.
Join the D10 Como Community Council team!!!
Or start your own team.
The challenge runs during the month of February 2024. Sign up now! You might learn something!
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Como Park High School Paint-a-Mural Fundraiser
Tue & Thur, Feb. 20 & 22, 3:15-7:15pm @ Como High School
Would you like to become part of Como Park's History and help paint a wall mural reflecting Como students and community? Sign up for a half hour slot or more on dates provided. It is $5 per person for a half hour or pay what you can to help raise funds for their annual Family Fun Night in May.
Above is a picture of what you'd be painting on a wall approximately 8ft by 27ft. Photo includes the faces of Como as well as community attractions like Como Lake, Conny's Creamy Cone, Como Conservatory, and things like the new MN State flag and "Community" translated in languages represented by our students. Drawing created by Como High's very own art teacher, Ms. Veszi. Just bring yourself! Paints and supplies are provided.
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Outdoor adventures with your child @ Como Streetcar Station
Third Wednesdays – Feb. 21 & Mar. 20 | 10-11:30am | Como Streetcar Station (1224 Lexington Pkwy) | Preregistration required FREE
ExploraTots is a naure-based PreK program from St. Paul Parks & Rec designed for children ages 3-5 and their families. They begin with choice time activity stations on a theme, read a story together, venture out on a hike, then return for wrap-up. Together you and your child will connect to nature, explore and make observations with your senses, meet new friends, and to practice skills that can improve school-readiness.
This program starts inside, but will be outside for extended periods. Please dress for the weather!
Children must be supervised by an accompanying adult. Siblings are welcome. All children and adults attending the program must be registered.
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Snow Growing Winter Sowing Workshop
Sunday, March 3, 1-2:30pm @ Como Streetcar Station (1224 Lexington Pkwy) Free, Registration Required
This free opportunity open to all ages is a collaboration of D10 Como Community Council, The MN SEED Project, and Lawns to Legumes.
It’s time to get your hands in the soil and propagate some prairie plant joy for your pollinator gardens with this oh so easy method called winter sowing!
We”ll have seeds , soil, supplies, and a limited supply of containers. To make sure there’s enough for everyone, please bring any clean translucent plastic containers like:
- Quart size take-out containers
- Milk jugs
- Liter or larger water or beverage containers
- Greens containers
Limited to 30 attendees. Registration Required: https://forms.gle/xXtrDAmbwLiHfNKY9
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Como Parks & Rec Programming
Parks is now seeking 2024 Music in the Parks performers applications are now open for summer 2024 Music in the Parks performers at Mears Park and Como Lakeside Pavilion. Visit the Music in the Parks webpage for more information and to apply.
Camp Como is back: 2024 camp offerings are now listed on their website. Scholarships are available. Registration will open February 20, 9am.
Find the latest on the Rec Center Ice Rinks (They're likely closed for the season)
Como Park Ski Center is CLOSED for the Season
North Dale Rec Center (9am-9pm Mon-Thu, 9am-6pm Fri)
Ongoing Drop-In Programming
Northwest Como Rec Center (2-9pm Mon-Thu, 2-6pm Fri)
*Registration Required
D10 finds this info here in the Parks and Rec registration system, you can often find events further in advance than we have room here in the newsletter for!
Now seeking a concession vendor for Saint Paul aquatics facilities
Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is seeking proposals from vendors to manage concession operations at four aquatics facilities: Como Regional Park Pool, Highland Park Aquatic Center, and Phalen Beach. Proposals for will be accepted through February 9, 2024 at 3pm.
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
New License Applications:
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Al's Garage LLC (997 Front Ave. - Former Duke's Location): A new Class N license application for Auto Repair has been shared with D10. Anyone with input can email the Como Community Council or contact the Department of Safety & Inspections (DSI) at 651-266-8989, or email DSI-Licensing@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
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El Aguila (1552 Como Ave.) A new Class N license application for Liquor License - On Sale/Sunday Liquor Sales has been shared with D10. Anyone with input can email the Como Community Council or contact the Department of Safety & Inspections (DSI) at 651-266-8989, or email DSI-Licensing@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
Business License Renewals*:
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Como Golf Course & Clubhouse (1431 Lexington): Liquor and Entertainment licenses are up for renewal on April 18. Anyone with input should contact the Ward 5 City Council office: ward5@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
*While license notifications serve as community reminders, feedback on a business license can be submitted at any time.
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Why Are The Street Lights Out or Dark? Wire Theft
We've all experienced how dark things have been lately, especially now that night comes so early.
St. Paul Public Works has a Street Lighting webpage on the issue, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions that have been on many of our minds as we think up our own solutions to the issue.
We need the support of residents and businesses to stop street light wire theft!
Wire theft is not random, but often organized and coordinated with people even wearing vests and putting out cones. If you see anyone “working” on street lights during any time of the day or night and there is a not a City of Saint Paul vehicle near the site, please report the location and activity to the Saint Paul Police Department at 651-291-1111. Do not approach the “workers.”
To report any street lights that are out or damaged, please report the location through the online form.
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MICAH St. Paul Virtual Policy Breakfast February 23 2024
Metropolitan Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing (MICAH) is hosting a virtual policy breakfast:
We are living in momentous times. Housing is changing, politics are changing, and MICAH’s policy breakfast theme is Realizing the Right to Housing in 2024
Our virtual breakfast begins at 8 AM and will feature a panel of city, state, and local officials talking about that theme, a chance for other leaders attending to speak, and a presentation of the newly finalized Homes for All legislative agenda.
Commissioner Mai Chong Xiong, State Representative Esther Agbaje, and St. Paul City Council President Mitra Jalali have confirmed their panel attendance.
Zoom only. Register Here: http://tinyurl.com/StPaulBreakfast24
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Workshops hosted by the St. Paul Police Department
Wednesday, February 28 at 6 p.m.: Burglary Prevention
Learn about lighting, landscaping, window protection, security systems, windows and more to protect your home
Wednesday, March 27 at 6p.m.: Personal Safety
Learn about situational awareness at home, in the car, at work and in the community.
Register here for these virtual classes.
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SPPL's Read Brave 2024
Saint Paul Public Library has shared the book selection and theme for Read Brave 2024, Saint Paul's annual citywide book club. Read Brave taps into the power of books to bring residents together to read and talk bravely across generations about an issue critical to Saint Paul and its future.
Read Brave 2024’s theme is Celebrating Identities. This year’s Read Brave will focus on one young adult book title, Man o’ War by Cory McCarthy. Like themes in the book, they invite residents to dig into complexities of who we are, how we relate each other, and what it means to create a city where all identities belong. Read Brave programming will take place March 18–24, 2024.
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Monday, March 11: Mayor Carter to Deliver 2024 State of Our City Address
On Monday, March 11, Mayor Carter will deliver the 2024 State of Our City address at the Xcel Energy Center. The 2024 State of Our City address is free and open to the public.
WHAT: Mayor Carter’s 2024 State of Our City address
WHEN: Monday, March 11, 2024 at Noon.
WHERE:
Xcel Energy Center, Gate 1 Entrance
199 W Kellogg Blvd
St Paul, MN 55102
The event will be held just beyond the Gate 1 entrance. Free parking will be provided from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Saint Paul RiverCentre Parking Ramp.
The address will also be live streamed online on the City of Saint Paul Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/cityofsaintpaul.
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Application for Summer 2024 youth internships is Now Open
Applications accepted through February 29, 2024.
The City's Right Track program offers internship opportunities for St. Paul youth ages 14-21 who live in a cost-burdened household or have a barrier to employment. In the summer of 2022, Right Track provided over 704 young people from Saint Paul with a summer internship or online professional development opportunity. Right Track has two primary summer employment programs, YJ1 and YJ2.
LINK TO YOUTH APPLICATION: City of Saint Paul - RightTrack
A couple of eligibility reminders:
- Youth in Saint Paul 14-21 (must be 14 by June 1, 2024, and not older than 21 by August 16, 2024)
- NEW for 2024: Limited spaces available for youth who live in Suburban Ramsey County (outside of Saint Paul).
- Youth should be able to work individually and as part of a team.
- Additional Eligibility Requirements can be found here Program Eligibility Requirements
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2024 STAR grant applications open Friday, April 5
Save the date! The 2024 grant applications for the City of Saint Paul’s Neighborhood STAR and Cultural STAR programs will open on Friday, April 5.
Neighborhood STAR grants fund capital projects in Saint Paul neighborhoods and Cultural STAR grants support arts and cultural organizations and events in Saint Paul.
Online applications for both programs will be due Wednesday, May 15 at 4 p.m.
Visit the program websites for more information on this year’s STAR programs. The 2024 guidelines and information on application workshops will be available in March.
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Ramsey County Environmental Resources
Free electronics recycling for Ramsey County residents
Ramsey County residents looking to get rid of computers, televisions, cell phones and other electronics now have a free and easy way to recycle them. Ramsey County has partnered with Repowered to refurbish or recycle unwanted electronics, keeping toxic metals like lead, mercury and cadmium out of the environment.
The electronics collection site is located at:
Repowered
860 Vandalia Street
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Mon-Fri: 8:30am-4:30pm
Second and fourth Saturday: 9am-1pm
Items accepted
All data from electronics is destroyed physically or electronically wiped by Repowered.
- Cameras, camcorders and accessories, including chargers and memory cards.
- Cell phones and accessories, including chargers, adapters and headphones.
- Computers and accessories, including monitors, laptops, tablets, keyboards, mice, speakers, printers and scanners.
- Televisions and accessories, including VCRs, DVRs, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles and cable boxes.
See items not accepted for disposal options for other electronic items.
Learn more about Ramsey County’s electronics recycling program and check which items are accepted at ramseycounty.us/Electronics or call 651-633-EASY (3279), answered 24/7.
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Recycling is no fairytale in the Twin Cities
Do you wonder what really happens to recyclables when they leave your home? The metro counties are teaming up to assure you that recycling is no myth. It’s real and it works here.
Minnesota is home to many recycling facilities that collect, sort, process and manufacture items made from the bottles, boxes and other containers you put in your recycling cart every day. When you put the right items in your recycling cart, they become new products, locally and regionally.
Glass bottles and jars are sorted by color in Saint Paul. Clear glass is sent to Shakopee to make bottles for drinks, pickles, salad dressing and more.
Plastic milk and laundry detergent jugs are made into durable decking, fencing and landscaping products in Paynesville, and plastic drink bottles and produce containers are made into new plastic bottles in Wisconsin and Ohio.
Recycled paper and cardboard are made into cereal and cracker boxes in Saint Paul.
Recycled food cans are made into new products like wire, and parts for cars and appliances in the Midwest.
Local efforts to recycle and reduce waste save energy, protect resources and support about 78,000 jobs in the state. Annually, the Twin Cities metro area recycles an average of 900,000 tons of paper and cardboard, metal, glass and plastic – that’s the weight of about four large cruise ships!
You can be proud that recycling works in Minnesota.
Learn more at RecyclingExists.com.
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Recycle Smart: Keep random metal items out of your recycling cart.
Hangers, pots, pans, pipes, and auto parts do not belong in your residential recycling cart. Metal items like these can damage the equipment at recycling facilities. Metal items are recyclable anywhere scrap metal is accepted. To find metal recyclers near you, visit www.RamseyRecycles.com/AtoZ.
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Warming Space Locations and Hours
Ramsey County has opened winter warming spaces in Saint Paul for residents who are experiencing homelessness. Through the end of March 2024, the following locations will be open every night from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. On Jan. 1, the Saint Paul Opportunity Center warming space closed for the season.
Central Baptist Church
420 N. Roy St.
For families and youth ages 14-24
Saint Paul-Reformation Lutheran
100 N Oxford St.
For women only
Phalen Activity Center
1530 Phalen Drive
For men only
Union Gospel Mission
435 University Ave. E.
For adult men only
The free shuttle service will run from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. each day. Ramsey County housing services and support staff will also be answering calls and emails from 9 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. to help refer people to available warming spaces or extra shelter beds. You can also find extreme cold and winter weather safety information here.
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What's Happening At The Fairgrounds? | |
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The Minnesota State Fair employs nearly 80 year-round full-time staff members and approximately 150 seasonal and 1,750 fair-time staff members. Working at the Minnesota State Fair is an opportunity to be part of welcoming guests to celebrate the best Minnesota has to offer in our state’s most storied end-of-summer tradition. Benefits include free fair admission, valuable work experience, making great friends and so much more. Learn more about the opportunities.
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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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