Saint Paul, MN (October 6, 2009) – As summer turn to autumn, so does the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory when it opens the annual Fall Flower Show Saturday, October 10th. From October 10th to November 1st the show will feature hundreds of chrysanthemums with colors of yellow, lavender, purple and pink highlighted with Purple Flash and Black Pearl ornamental peppers. After a quick show change November 2nd thru November 6th, the Sunken Garden reopens to a chrysanthemum floral display of maroon, gold and orange with Masquerade and Sangria ornamental peppers. The tradition of the annual Fall Flower Show began in 1915 when the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory first opened. Today, the Conservatory hosts five season annual flower shows. The chrysanthemum flower has been known since before 5000 BC in a small yellow form. Ancient China and Japan both have tales explaining how the chrysanthemum originated. The Chinese who considered them the highest of flowers, named their royal throne after the flower. Chrysanthemum flowers have traditionally been boiled in China to make "chrysanthemum tea," used in folk medicine for influenza patients. In landscaping, chrysanthemums are valued for the fact that they bloom in fall. Chrysanthemum flowers are also a favorite of florists for arrangements, due to the longevity of their blooms.
The Fall Flower Show at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is open October 10-November 29 from 10:00am-4:00pm. There will be a show change November 2 - 6 in which the Sunken Garden will be closed, but all other rooms of the Conservatory will remain open to the public. [Watch an exclusive behind-the-scenes video...]

The suspense is over! Como Zoo has been proudly been revealed as the winner of the Nickelodeon Parent’s Pick Awards ‘Best Tourist Spot’ in Minneapolis/St.Paul. After being nominated in early June alongside other popular Twin Cities destinations, it has been determined through online voting that Como Zoo is indeed the ‘Best Tourist Spot’ in the cities. Users of Nickelodeon’s online ParentConnect site were invited to vote daily during the race, and ultimately determined who would receive the awards. Como Park also gained its own praise in the Nickelodeon race – the destination was voted ‘Best Playground or Park’ in Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Como Zoo, a family-friendly destination located in Saint Paul, MN, is open everyday of the year and features exciting and interactive exhibits that appeal to children and adults alike. Unique events and educational classes as well as daily favorites around the zoo such as the ‘Sparky the Sea Lion’ Show have thrilled guests for decades. Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s manager, expressed her thoughts on receiving the award. “Como Zoo is extremely proud to accept the Nickelodeon Parent’s Pick ‘Best Tourist Spot’ award. Here at Como we strive to make the Park, the Zoo & the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory a place where people can truly get closer to experience the animals and our beautiful plants and flowers. I think this award represents the quality of our exhibits, and the dedication Como has to making each guest’s visit a memorable one.”

Nickelodeon’s Parent’s Pick Awards identified winners for 30 categories in 52 major U.S. Cities. Categories included: best museum for families, best toy store, best place for pizza; and more. Users on Nickelodeon’s Parent Connect site were invited to vote daily for their favorites, and the winners were announced August 15th. The 2009 award winners will be featured on ParentsConnect throughout the upcoming year.

Como Park Zoo and Conservatory Background: For over 100 years, Marjorie McNeely Conservatory and Como Zoo in Saint Paul, Minnesota has charmed, educated and entertained millions of children and adults while fostering an appreciation of the natural world, helping to make Saint Paul the Most Livable City in America. The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is open 365 days; 10am-6pm from April 1-October 1 and 10am-4pm from October 2-March 31. The free Como Shuttle operates weekends 9:30am-6:30pm Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission to both the Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is always free and a voluntary donation is appreciated. For more information, visit www.comozooconservatory.org

ParentsConnect Background: Featuring the tagline "We're not perfect, we're parents," Nickelodeon's ParentsConnect is the online resource providing parenting advice and community, celebrating the reality of parenthood and making parents' lives easier. Geared towards parents with kids of all ages, from babies to teens, the site offers unique features like personalized profiles that help parents connect with each other; advice from top-tier parenting experts; a digital multi-media scrapbook; seasonal crafts, recipes and activities; a weekly meal-planner; a weekly newsletter focusing on the behavior and development of your child; and guest celebrity editorials. Each age-related section on the site provides users with daily content to help them through both large and small parenting challenges.

Como Zoo’s oldest sea lion, and the second oldest sea lion in North America, passed away on Monday at the age of 31. The average life expectancy of a sea lion is 15-25 years. Millions of people, young and old, have been entertained by this California sea lion as he stared in the “Sparky Show” from 1981 up until his retirement in 2001. In 2001 both he and his trainer, Norm Byng decided 20 years in show business was enough and passed the beach ball on to the current, and sixth sea lion to take on the coveted Sparky role, Sealia (CC) The Sea Lion. While CC has assumed the stage name Sparky, the 20 year veteran performer was actually named Sparky V.

Even though Sparky V retired in 2001, he was still trained daily. Senior Zookeeper Allison Jungheim said “he was eager to please and incredibly patient which allowed us many opportunities we would not have had with a typical male sea lion. He would allow zookeepers to brush his teeth, put eye drops in his eyes, collect blood samples, perform physical therapy for his aging joints, x-rays, and even pull a loose tooth.” In the 1990’s, a difficult and dangerous surgical procedure was performed which would normally require putting the animal under using anesthesia. Zookeepers trained Sparky V to expose his belly, thus allowing injections of a local anesthetic and veterinarians performed the surgery at Como Zoo all while he was awake, thus minimizing the health risk. “It was an incredible accomplishment that illustrates the purpose in training these animals” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory Manager.

“Como Zoo is proud of the great work we do with our animals, and this animal's long life is a result of the amazing care by zoo keepers and veterinary staff, as well as the Zoo industry embracing and learning more about geriatric animals in captivity” said Furrer. “Great medical care, carefully formulated diets, and comfortable housing for all Como’s animals contribute to the excellent health and lifespan of our animals.”

While many associate the “Sparky Show” with a seal, it has actually been a sea lion that has been the star of the educational performance and attraction at Como Zoo since 1956 when Archie Brand brought his traveling sea lion show permanently to Como Zoo. Sea lions, such as Sparky V and CC have external ear flaps, are able to rotate their hind flippers beneath them to walk on all four flippers, and use their front flippers to propel themselves through the water. By comparison, seals have no external ear flap, move on land much like an inchworm, and use their back flippers to swim.

As a performer, Sparky V wore many hats; among them he played a lifeguard, a trumpet player, a baseball player, and a lounge singer. Sparky V passed away peacefully on Monday, August 3, 2009, and will be deeply missed by all who knew and cared for him, including his fin footed friends Mystic, Max, CC, Chino & Ginger.

St. Paul Fire Department received a grant of $16,240 from Allianz Life Insurance Company. The grant will pay for federally-mandated high visibility jackets for each of their 137 paramedics. [Watch the video...]

Office of the Fire Chief
Timothy M. Butler
100 East Eleventh Street Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101

October 20, 2009

Saint Paul Fire Department Offers Halloween Safety Tips

Contact: Fire Marshal Steve Zaccard For Immediate Release
651-315-5689

Planning ahead can help make this Halloween a safe one. Taking simple safety precautions, like making sure fabrics for costumes and decorative materials are flame-resistant, can prevent fires.

During the four-year period of 2002 – 2005, the National Fire Protection Association estimates that decorations were the first item to be ignited in an estimated 1,150 home fires per year. These fires caused an estimated average of three deaths, 56 injuries, and $24.8 million in property damage per year.

Here are some easy-to-follow safety tips that can help you and your family have a safe and Happy Halloween:

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

• Purchase only costumes, wigs and props labeled flame-resistant or flame-retardant. When creating a costume, choose material that won't easily ignite if it comes in contact with heat or flame. Avoid billowing or long trailing features.
• Provide children with lightweight flashlights to carry for lighting or as part of their costume.
• Dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations well away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs, heaters, etc.
• Use the proper grade of fuel for your liquid-fueled space heater, and never use gasoline in any heater not approved for gasoline use. Refuel only in a well-ventilated area and when the equipment is cool.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated candles when illuminating Jack-O-Lanterns. Use extreme caution when decorating with candle lit Jack-O-Lanterns, and supervise children at all times when candles are lit. When lighting candles inside Jack-O-Lanterns, use long, fireplace-style matches and be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn including doorsteps, walkways and yards.
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, ensuring nothing blocks escape routes.
• Instruct children to stay away from open flames or other heat sources. Be sure children know how to stop, drop and roll in the event their clothing catches fire. (Stop immediately, drop to the ground, covering your face with your hands, and roll over and over to extinguish flames.) Cool the burn.
• Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torch lights when decorating walkways and yards. They are much safer for trick-or-treaters, whose costumes may brush against the lighting.
• Make sure fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside, that the venting is kept clear and unobstructed, and that the exit point is properly sealed around the vent, all of which is to make sure deadly carbon monoxide does not build up in the home.
• Instruct children who are attending parties at others' homes to locate the exits and plan how they would get out in an emergency.

Some people might be enjoying one of this year’s haunted houses in the metro area. Fire safety concerns are often unique at haunted houses and other spooky venues typically visited during this time of year.
“It is important to know how to get out of a room or a building in case of an emergency no matter where you are,” says Saint Paul Fire Marshal Steve Zaccard. “A haunted house is a strange place to be, and with other things competing for your attention, it may take a little extra effort to identify exits and plan your escape if there’s a fire.” [Additional info...]

Did you know that you can go to any Saint Paul Fire Station to get your blood pressure taken? Stop by between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Let's keep Saint Paul residents healthy!

beginning Wednesday, November 4th, along the Lafayette Bridge corridor between Fillmore Avenue and Kellogg Boulevard. The testing is being done in preparation for work to replace the Lafayette Bridge and will run until Tuesday, December 14th. Construction of the new bridge is scheduled to begin in January of 2011.

City officials remind interested parties that this project falls under the control of MnDOT, and that if questions arise, or if you have any questions or concerns please contact James Gillach, Public Affairs Coordinator, at (651)-234-7503, or visit the MnDOT project webpage at www.dot.state.mn.us/metro/projects/hwy52-stpaul.

The first phase of testing will take place north of the Mississippi River between Warner Road and the parking lot north of Kellogg Boulevard on Monday, November 16th. A staging area has opened south of the river near Alabama Street and Highway 52, and will be used during the testing period for storing equipment and materials.

XXX

Downtown Saint Paul will become a demonstration for how diversified energy sources can power large-scale buildings, complexes and district systems, thanks to money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

District Energy St. Paul will install solar thermal or hybrid solar thermal/photovoltaic systems using the $1 million grant administered through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its own matching funds. Together with the two cities through the Minneapolis Saint Paul Solar America Cities partnership, District Energy will study both how solar energy can be integrated into existing district energy systems and the value such diversified energy generation brings as a business model and as a stand-alone solar district system. With their sights set on the rooftop of the Saint Paul RiverCentre and an estimated project price tag of over $2 million, this DOE selection was integral to project success.

“These Recovery Act awards will enable Solar America Cities to tackle emerging challenges involving solar energy use in urban environments. The solutions that emerge will accelerate solar energy adoption across the nation,” said JoAnn Milliken, Solar Program Manager, U.S. Department of Energy.

“In recent years, mayors and cities have taken the lead to improve our environment and find innovative solutions to our energy challenges. Now with a partner in the White House who understands the significant role cities play in our nation’s economy, we can move forward with projects that create jobs and solutions to our energy needs,” Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman said.
The project with District Energy is one of 40 projects that were selected nationwide to help speed adoption of solar energy while supporting development of a skilled workforce and continuing to pursue new scientific breakthroughs to increase the efficiency and lower the cost of solar technologies. U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the grant in early October as part of $87 million awarded to universities, electric power utilities, the DOE’s national laboratories, and local governments to support use of solar technologies in U.S. cities. This project was selected to receive $1 million of the $10 million in grants dedicated to Solar America Cities’ Special Projects.

“Finding solutions to our energy needs will lead to job growth and lift our economy. Innovation has driven our state and national economy in the past, and the challenges of today demand we reignite that innovative spirit,” Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak said.

“Meeting the energy needs of our cities requires the integration of multiple, sustainable energy sources, and solar will play a key role,” said District Energy CEO Anders Rydaker. “District Energy is committed to integrating solar into our energy generation portfolio and demonstrating how solar can be used to transform the future of cities throughout the United States.”

In addition to the $1million grant, the Department of Energy also awarded an additional $30,000 to NRG Thermal to conduct a feasibility study on integrating solar into their Minneapolis system.

District Energy St. Paul, a 501(c)(3) non-profit utility, heats and cools more than 80 percent of the buildings in downtown Saint Paul as well as 300 single-family homes. Already, District Energy has made substantial investments in “green” energy, utilizing a combined heat and power (CHP) plant primarily powered by local wood residues. The utility also installed six solar panels near its downtown plant in 2008 for testing. Since its creation in 1979, District Energy has become a model in North America demonstrating the viability of a district heating and cooling system in a major urban setting.

NRG Thermal LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of NRG Energy Inc. which has a global portfolio of projects including wind and solar generation and which provides district and cooling services to over 100 buildings in downtown Minneapolis.

In 2008, Saint Paul and Minneapolis were named Solar America Cities by the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a strategic plan to make solar energy more accessible for homes and businesses by the year 2015. The two cities are partnering with local organizations and businesses including District Energy, NRG Thermal LLC, Xcel Energy, Center for Energy and Environment, freEner-g, Fresh Energy, Green Institute, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Minnesota Department of Commerce, Minnesota Renewable Energy Society and Neighborhood Energy Connection to develop mainstream solar in the coming decade and implement dozens of projects during the next two years.
[Watch the announcement]
[Learn more about Solar in the Cities ...]

Saint Paul residents in Saint Anthony Park, Thomas-Dale and Summit-University neighborhoods are eligible for up to $400 worth of home energy saving goods and services through a funding provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, with additional funds from the Saint Anthony Park Community Foundation.

The Neighborhood Energy Service brings together neighborhood organizations to offer residents an energy efficiency program that includes a free workshop on saving energy and money, provides home visit with a Home Energy Squad that will install the energy-saving materials for a $30 co-pay, and provide a one-year of personalized home energy reporting. Neighborhood Energy Service coincides with the launch of the Energy Innovation Corridor, a first-of-its-kind clean energy and transportation model extending from downtown Saint Paul to Target Field in downtown Minneapolis.

To qualify for the Neighborhood Energy Service, homeowners need to attend one of three free workshops where residents will receive a starter kit and information on current home energy use and steps improving energy efficiency. The workshops are:
• 7:15-8:45 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19, at St. Anthony Park Library, 2245 Como Ave.
• 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5., Rondo Community Outreach Library, 461 Dale Street North
• 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at St. Anthony Park Library, 2245 Como Ave.

To register for the workshops, contact the Saint Anthony Park Community Council at green@sapcc.org or 651.649.5992; Thomas-Dale Planning Council at tait@d7mix.org or 651.789.7480; or the Summit-University Planning Council at Irna@Summit-U.com or 651.228.1855. To complete the registration for the Neighborhood Energy Service, homeowners will need to return a completed utility data release form signed by the account holder to a council office before the workshop.

The Neighborhood Energy Connection (NEC) and the Metro Clean Energy Resource Team (CERT) are teaming up with other non-profits, businesses and government to pro¬vide this program in Saint Paul. Partners include The Center for Energy and Environ¬ment, Xcel Energy and the Saint Anthony Park Community Council.

All arterials and residential streets will be swept.

City officials anticipate that the work will be completed by November 18th, with no sweeping to take place on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3rd, and Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11th.

City residents are advised to take notice of temporary parking restrictions on their streets as the sweeping progresses. Residential streets will be posted with the parking restrictions 24 hours in advance of their being swept.

For questions regarding either the sweeping schedule or the parking restrictions, residents can contact Public Works at (651)-292-6600.

Residents who have questions about what to do with their leaves and other yard waste may take it to any one of several Ramsey County compost sites. For more information about hours and locations of these sites, residents may call (651)-266-1155, or visit the County’s website at www.co.ramsey.mn.us.

Community input sought on proposed changes to Off-street Parking Requirements

Simpler and more reasonable requirements to balance the need for parking with efficient land use, better lot design and support for walking, biking and transit.

SAINT PAUL - Saint Paul, like many cities across the United States, is revising its off-street parking requirements to support and create vibrant mixed use communities of residents and businesses that look great, are livable, and respect the environment.

In May 2009, the Saint Paul Planning Commission initiated a zoning study to consider amendments to Saint Paul’s off-street parking requirements and parking lot design standards. The City’s zoning code regulates the number of off-street parking spaces that must be provided when establishing or expanding land uses.

The City of Saint Paul’s last significant update to its off-street parking regulations was in 1992. Since that time our City has changed. The current off-street parking requirements do not match the changing urban form of Saint Paul, account for alternative transportation modes, or facilitate fluid transitions on our commercial corridors. The recently adopted Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan provides direction to amend aspects of the city’s off-street parking policies to reflect new priorities for land use, transportation, housing and environmental quality.

After extensive review and discussion, City staff have prepared a set of draft revisions to the City’s off-street parking requirements and related code. The draft revisions are being released for public comment and feedback, which will assist staff in making final revisions to the proposed changes in preparation for Planning Commission review and formal public hearing in early 2010.

Study Goals and Objectives
Better align parking requirements with demand to reduce oversupply and undersupply of parking
Balance the interests of residents, businesses, institutions, government, and customers
Encourage development / redevelopment / reuse
Simplify the City’s off-street parking code for ease of interpretation and implementation
Encourage efficient land use and reduce blight
Support multi-modal transportation options
Increase environmental stewardship

The proposed revisions to off-street parking requirements do not address:
Parking deficiencies for existing businesses or properties
Downtown parking
Central Corridor Parking Management (separate study)
Parking demand management tools, e.g., permit areas, meters, enforcement
Public Meetings and Schedule
Three public meetings are scheduled to provide information on the proposed off-street parking code revisions and seek feedback to assist in further revisions. Scheduled meeting dates are as follows:

·Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at West 7th Community Center, 265 Oneida St.

·Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at Como Park Pavilion, 1360 N Lexington Pkwy.

·Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Dayton’s Bluff Recreation Center, 800 Conway St.

A few additional meetings are being held with interested stakeholder groups, on request.

Or you may contact:

Merritt Clapp-Smith
Saint Paul Planning and Economic Development
651-266-6547
merritt.clapp-smith@ci.stpaul.mn.us

or

Tia Anderson
Saint Paul Planning and Economic Development
651-266-6562
tia.anderson@ci.stpaul.mn.us

[Additional info...]

Saint Paul will honor its first graduates of the new Emergency Medical Services Academy at a 5:00 p.m. ceremony Thursday at Dayton’s Bluff Recreation Center, 800 Conway St.

“Saint Paul has a world-class fire department, and through this pilot we are opening doors to a professional career for young adults who reflect our diverse community, whether they work in our department, local hospitals or health clinics. I congratulate the students who worked hard and graduated,” Mayor Chris Coleman said.

Recommended as a Best Practice by the U.S. Conference of Mayors and recognized by the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the pilot program launched this summer to bring young adults from low-income households to careers in EMS and firefighting while helping Saint Paul close the achievement gap for students of color and women.

“The EMS Academy opened the door to many opportunities that I did not know were possible. It was definitely a rigorous class and it made me a better person by bringing out the best in me. Most importantly, the Academy helped me choose a career that allows me to help people every day,” said student Alexavier Collado.

The first-in-the-state academy – an extension of Mayor Chris Coleman’s Ready for School, Ready for Life education initiative – pays participants up to 25 hours a week while they go through a 10-week emergency medical technician certification program. The academy provides opportunities for young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 to learn job skills and qualify them to take the firefighter test in Saint Paul, broadening the pool of applicants for the fire department.

“This is a unique program – paying young adults from our neighborhoods to learn a life-saving skill, earn professional certification, and overcome a significant financial hurdle into the workforce,” Fire Chief Tim Butler said. “These students are now prepared to compete for high paying jobs in health care, education, and the fire department.”

A collaboration among the City of Saint Paul, Ramsey County, and Inver Hills community college, the pilot academy held classes three days a week. Students were paid $7.50 an hour, based on attendance and participation, up to 25 hours each week. Through successful completion of the training, participants will receive a certificate in Emergency Medical Services and qualify to take the EMT certification exam.

According to the state Department of Employment and Economic Development’s 2006 projections, the need for EMTs and paramedics was expected to grow nearly 18 percent in the next decade. A 2008 Longitudinal Emergency Medical Technician Attributes & Demographics Study found that only 28 percent of EMTs and paramedics are women and less than 25 percent are people of color nationwide.

“The academy is the start of a new beginning that will have a generational impact for many Saint Paul families,” said Luz María Frías, Director of Saint Paul’s Department of Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity (HREEO). “Many partners made this happen, and through their support, young adults in Saint Paul have access to a new career and our community's economic capacity is strengthened.”

Financial support for this initiative was secured from The Saint Paul Foundation, F.R. Bigelow Foundation, Greater Twin Cites United Way, and The Otto Bremer Foundation as well as Allina Medical Transport, Fire Fighters United of Saint Paul, the Fire Supervisors Association and the Saint Paul NAACP. In addition, Saint Paul City Councilmembers Melvin Carter, Kathy Lantry, Russ Stark and Pat Harris each designated a portion of their COPP funds to make the academy possible.

As part of Mayor Coleman’s education initiative, the Emergency Medical Services Academy extends to older students and young adults workforce development and job skills training opportunities outside of the traditional classroom. With the health care sector representing one of the largest employment growth areas in the city, the academy is opening doors to living wage jobs for young adults growing up and living in Saint Paul.

Participants for the fall Academy have been selected and will begin classes September 16th.

For more information on the EMS Academy, visit: http://www.ehs.net/emsacademy.

The City of Saint Paul, Department of Parks and Recreation – in an effort to more effectively manage the deer population in the Highland Park area, by request of the Highland District Council, is partnering with the Metro Bowhunters Resource Base (MBRB) to reduce the deer population in Saint Paul’s Crosby Farm Regional Park. On October 19 - 21 and November 9 - 11, there will be a special permit archery hunt in the park. During these days Crosby Farm Regional Park will be closed to the public.

To establish the hunt, Saint Paul sought the assistance of Ramsey County Parks and Recreation who has worked cooperatively with MBRB since 2000 conducting special permit archery hunts to control deer populations in select Ramsey County parks. Ten different parks and open spaces have been used for the special permit hunts which have eliminated more than 650 deer. This will be the second year a hunt has been held in Crosby Farm Regional Park. For more information and statistics about the deer management program visit Ramsey County Parks and Recreation.

Archers have already been selected for this year's hunt. For information on how to apply for next year, visit MBRB

For specific questions regarding the Crosby Farm Regional Park special permit hunt, contact Adam Robbins at environment@ci.stpaul.mn.us or (651) 632-2457.

For questions regarding the Highland area deer management plan, please contact Kathy Carruth at hdc@visi.com or (651) 695-4005.

Happy Halloween friends,

This week offers another great range of cool stuff to do to supplement your trick-or-treating fun. Of course it’s also important, for obvious reasons, to remind everybody to go vote on Tuesday. With World Music and Dance at the Ordway, the Concerts at the O’Shaughnessy, live music and silent films at the Fitz, kid friendly play at Steppingstone, G&S review at Landmark, and the Boo’s Crawl in Lowertown, there is, once again, something for everyone.

Go Vote on Tuesday

They say all politics are local, but somehow turnout for local elections never rivals that of even-year elections. After you get out and cast your vote, call your friends, e-mail your contacts, facebook your … “friends,” tweet your twitterers, and chat with your neighbors to ensure the health of our democracy.

http://www.co.ramsey.mn.us/elections/index.htm

Bad Boys of Dance (Friday) and Yasmin Levy (Sunday) at the Ordway this weekend

Come on… it seems everybody is watching dance on TV, get out and see this stuff live – it is so much better in person. If you can get over the dumb name these guys came up with, you’ll find that this show features some really terrific talent. There aren’t that many times when a dance concert features only men, and there is a unique and exciting movement quality to a company like this. This company redefines classical ballet by fusing classic strength and form with hip hop, jazz, rock music.

Yasmin is not only that gorgeous face you noticed in the Ordway’s season brochure. She’s of a new generation of musicians who are preserving and re-defining the most beautiful songs from Ladino/Judeo-Spanish heritage, and mixing it with Andalucian Flamenco. Hers is a deep, spiritual and moving style of singing and we are proud to open her U.S. tour next season.

http://ordway.org/

Bruce Honsby (w/ Messersmith Opening), Sunday; and Tragically Hip, Tuesday at O’Shaughnessy

By any standard, Bruce Hornsby has built one of the most diverse and adventurous careers in contemporary music. Drawing from the well of American musical traditions, songwriter has created a wonderful songbook. His latest album, Levitate, is the first Hornsby release co-credited to his longstanding touring band the Noisemakers – perhaps a credit long overdue. With local favorite Jeremy Messersmith slotted as opener, the night promises quality top to bottom.

Then on Tuesday, the Toronto-based group made a name for themselves during the mid-80s and has released thirteen studio albums since then. As famous Canucks, they’ve a number of Juno Awards in their trophy case and in 2005 they were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

http://oshaughnessy.stkate.edu/allevents.html

Gilbert and Sullivan A La Carte at Landmark Center – Sunday afternoon

A delightful, fascinating and touching musical revue of the careers of the masters of Victorian Operetta. Meet Gilbert, the curmudgeonly wit, Sullivan, the gifted bon vivant, and D'Oyly Carte, the brilliant impresario who brought this theatrical "odd couple" together in clever collaborations. A fun tribute filled with favorite melodies and hilarious lyrics from Pinafore, Penzance, Mikado, Gondoliers, Patience, and The Yeomen of the Guard! Local talent,
Gary Briggle, Vicki Fingalson and Jeffrey Madison will perform.

http://www.northstaropera.org/

Hanuman & The Girl Prince at Steppingstone – through 11/8

Have you ever gone to the video store and checked out a handful of those Bollywood movies? If you have, then this next show at SteppingStone may peak your interest. A zany Bollywood-style comedy of mistaken identities, intrigue, and great heroism! An Indian princess-disguised as a prince-finds love at last with the help of Hanuman, the mischievous Monkey King in this fantastical new musical play in verse. I’m most excited to see the big full-cast musical numbers.

http://www.steppingstonetheatre.org/

Boo’s Crawl in Lowertown – Saturday

All of the new bars/nightclubs in Lowertown formed the Lowertown Entertainment District, and they’re working together to host the 2nd Annual Boo’s Crawl (get it… boo’s craw?). Here is the deal, $10 “passport” at Senor Wong, Rumours, Innuendo, Bulldog, Barrio, Station 4, Tratori, Black Dog, etc. and you get a free drink at each place. You can save all that money for tips and cab fare for the evening.

http://lowertowned.com/

Tortured Cinema: The Great Works of Lon Chaney @ the Fitz - Friday

The Fitz will feature excerpts of the silent films The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Phantom of the Opera, accompanied by Michael Grandchamp on the Fitzgerald Theater’s Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ. This event is the first public performance featuring the Indie Artist Residency Program: Reimagining the Theater Organ. The program brings two established artists— deVon Gray and Alicia Wiley—into a mentoring program under the tutelage of organ master Mike Grandchamp. Between the films, Wiley and Gray will present new compositions and arrangements they have created specifically for the Theater Organ. Actor Peter Moore will be on hand to do some storytelling w/ free popcorn.

http://fitzgeraldtheater.publicradio.org/events/#movie

"The Grand National," at the Dayton’s Bluff Eagles Club

Check out the wonderful article about this new play at the Saint Paul Eagles Club. After a bunch of local musicians “discovered” this treasure, Steve McClellan and DEMO started booking music in there, and now, a wonderful new play is showing at this historic theater-turned-Eagles club. Check out the Claude Peck’s glowing piece.

http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/onstage/67241247.html?elr=KArksD:aDyaEP:kD:aUg:oaEQDUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr

Thanks for taking the time to read… This should be enough material to keep you busy for the weekend. Be safe, have fun, and remember to vote on Tuesday.

Boo!

Joe

Hello friends,

A perfect compliment of opportunities this weekend.

Theater: The Full Monty plays on; Buddy Holly Musical is extended;Radio Golf and Little House will close this weekend, and Othello as well as Moonlight and Magnolias will open.

Music: Crossing Guards finally gets their CD out with a party at the Turf; something at Big V's; The Eddies are holding down the Hat Trick Lounge; The Bad Plus provide a really interesting reason to go to the Ballet;

Family fun-times: Boo Bash on Grand; Great Pumpkin Festival at Landmark; Boo Zoo at Como; Dia de los Muertos; and the Whiskey Fest (oh wait... maybe I should put that in a different category).

Crossing Guards CD Release at the Turf - Friday (10/22)

You may not know it, but Saint Paul has an official unofficial Mayor in the local music community, he goes by Martin Devaney (He and the actual Mayor have become pals during their first terms). One of Martin's bands, Crossing Guards has had an album in the works for a while now, and the moment of truth has finally come. Expect this record to rawk a little more than you're accustomed to hearing from the band under his own name. This evening looks to be a really fun show.

http://www.myspace.com/crossingguards

Saint Paul Scotch and Whiskey Fest at the Happy Gnome - Saturday

One of Saint Paul's great beer bars is organizing the second annual Saint Paul Scotch and Whiskey Fest. Hosting a tasting event has become second nature for our friends at the Gnome and when the weather turns cold, what be better than tasting brown spirits?

http://www.stpaulscotchandwhiskeyfest.com/ [ http://www.stpaulscotchandwhiskeyfest.com ]

Construction Observation deck at Senor Wong

If you've been downtown lately, you'll know that construction recently got underway for the much-anticipated Central Corridor Light Rail Line. The first step is to relocate some of the utilities, and that has torn up the front and sides of my favorite lowertown bar. They've responded with some great specials and promotions for those who want to watch the mighty machines tear up the street. Sundays feature no corkage fees, Mondays you can get a three course dinner for 2 for just $30 bucks. Watch
their website for info on a Halloween party and Boo's Cruise (get it?). These guys have a great happy hour menu, terrific lunch options, and is just an all-around great hangout.

http://www.senorwong.com

Boo Bash on Grand Avenue - Sunday

Grand Avenue is throwing the bash of the season this Sunday! Celebrate all that fall has to offer with an afternoon full of trick-or-treating, seasonal food tastings, exotic petting zoos, costume contests and more.

http://www.grandave.com/eventDetails.php?eventID=19

Hey Friends, Following up on last week's visual art extravaganza, this week has a lot to offer for music lovers. Running the gamut from Musical Theater, Metal, Rockabilly, Folk, Jazz, Indie Rock, and everything in between, there is a ton to see this week.

on with it...

Theater Latte Da's The Full Monty at the Ordway - through November 8
Peter Rothstein's Theater Latte Da has established itself as a producer of dependably fantastic musical theater work. I can't imagine a better company to tackle this show. "Based on the hit film, The Full Monty is the hilarious musical about a group of unemployed steelworkers who take drastic measures to earn some extra cash. United through unemployment and desperation, this unlikely gaggle finds renewed self-esteem and strength through honest friendship." http://latteda.org/

Metalocopolypse at the Roy - Friday
I have to admit that there was a part of me that celebrated when I heard that the Myth closed - I guess for two reasons. First, it always struck me as unnatural to drive out to a strip mall at the far reaches of the freeway ring to see rock concerts; and second, I knew that all those shows would have to be re-booked into urban venues. Roy Wilkins has certainly benefited from the added business, and this weekend will continue that. Look for metal heads to infiltrate the Rice Park entertainment district, joining musical theater audiences on their way to see Little House and Monty. At the very least, this show will lead to wonderful people-watching in Rice Park. http://www.theroy.org/

Amy Millan at the Turf - Saturday
This Canadian indie-rocker is best known for her work in the psuedo-super-group Broken Social Scene if not Stars. This evocative voice seems to capture a sweet melancholy better than anybody. About her new solo album she wrote, "All the touring with my various bands was coming to a stop, and I had to find a bed. An old friend gave me her Montreal room where I could smoke too much and burn her copper pots. The rest of the songs took shape from the quiet back porch of that temporary refuge." The songs all seem to have a quiet back porch feel to them. http://www.myspace.com/amymillan

Lights Out Dancing at Station 4 - Friday
I hate it when I feel like I've missed something that the rest of the world seems to have known about for quite a while. I wandered over to Lights Out Dancing's myspace page when I saw they have a CD Release party at Station 4, and was shocked to see that they have a super-slick page, hundreds of thousands of song plays, and they are a local band. They describe their sound as power-pop, and I'd give it a heavy emphasis on the POP. Created in May of 2007, Lights Out Dancing is a Powerpop/Pop rock group out of the suburbs of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Lights Out Dancing formed when the four ex-members of a local touring band teamed up with vocalist Danny Luebke. “He just fits right in” says guitarist Scott Baker, “both his musical talent and his personality were exactly what we were looking for.” With the arrival of Luebke, the newly-formed band knew they were ready to make their music their life. http://www.myspace.com/lightsoutdancing

Mose Alison at the AQ - Friday through Sunday
Jazz/Blues legend Mose Alison will treat Saint Paul audiences to his annual residency at the Artist Quarter. Mose Alison will pack in two shows each night Friday, Saturday and Sunday, giving you ample opportunity to see him in the intimate AQ. Alison recently teamed up with Joe Henry to record his most recent album, which is due out in the near future. Its a real testiment to Kenny Horste and the AQ that an act as accomplished as Mose Alison, who plays Festivals all over the world to huge crowds (including, by the way, our own Jazz Festival), that he still takes the time every year to play dates at our beloved club. http://www.artistsquarter.com/

VibroChamps CD Release at O'Gara's - Saturday
There was a time when I went to see the Vibro Champs play every week. Well, it turns out I'm not 22 any more, and in the interim, Dave Wolf moved to Austin. That makes their new CD release concert this weekend all the more exciting. They some how bridged the divide to put out this newest record, Mr. International, on Eclectone Records (my favorite label). The reunion/CD Release party is at O'Gara's this Saturday. http://www.vibrochamps.com/

Lindsay Mac at Ginkgo Coffee House - Thursday
Ginkgo Coffee house has a wonderful, if sporadic, folk music series, and next Thursday will be a highlight on their calendar. My charming neighborhood coffee shop is hosting the dynamic folk-on-cello talent, Lindsay Mac. This indie folkster from Boston has a powerful voice, fantastic song-writing, and a unique magic that comes from her turning the Cello into a folk instrument. Her sound draws an inevitable comparison to Ani Difranco. Visit her website to sample her recordings and I'm sure you will be as excited as I am about this show. http://www.myspace.com/lindsaymacmusic

In addition to all of these, Fan Fiction is at the Turf on Sunday night, Prairie Home Companion at the Fitz, Roller Girls at the Roy on Saturday, Ruthie Foster at O'Shaughnessy tonight, SPCO at the Saint Paul UCC, Little Man at the Turf tonight, and more and more and more and more.

Thanks for taking the time to read my message. Please share with your family, friends and neighbors as you see fit. Rock,

Joe

10/2 Wilco, Buddy Holly, Radio Golf and Juliette w/out the Licks Hello friends, The weather might not feel as pleasant as it did last week, but look at opportunities on your calendar this week and it will more than make up for it. The final play in August Wilson's cycle opens this weekend, a unique collaboration between our local rock college and the History Theatre will open a musical about Buddy Holly with the Crickets on hand to celebrate, Jeff Tweedy brings his brilliant Wilco to town, local heroes, Tapes n Tapes are playing a rare show at the Turf Club, and we're not finished yet. You might not make it to everything, but make a point of seeing something - the art opportunities are too good to sit at home.

Radio Golf at Penumbra Theatre - through 10/25
Of course you know that Penumbra is the national gold standard for August Wilson plays. Last night they hosted a celebration to show off their new remodeling, which in today's economy is a huge accomplishment. They're in the midst of a multi-year effort to produce the entire cycle of plays (again), and this weekend they open Radio Golf. It's 1997 and Harmond Wilks wants to become Pittsburgh's first black mayor. His ticket to win the election rides on redeveloping the "Hill District," the neighborhood he grew up in. But when the past begins to catch up with him, secrets get revealed that could be his undoing. Harmond discovers that victory will come with a price. Join us for this timely look at race and American politics. http://www.penumbratheatre.org/

Buddy premiers at the History Theatre - Opens Saturday
My old pals at the History Theater are really excited about this next show coming up on their stage. The production is the fruit of a cool partnership with their landlords, the McNally Smith School of Music. The show runs through November 1, but they are pulling out all the stops for opening night with a huge party including the Crickets, a phone-in appearance from Peggy Sue. This will be a special opportunity to hang out with legends of American culture. Buddy Holly (a.k.a. Charles Hardin Holley) was not only extremely talented, but relentless in his pursuit of his music. In a time when rock 'n’ roll was demonized by many, including his own family, Buddy stood his ground and hung on to his principles. In doing so, he rose to the top of the charts! Tap your toes along with this musical retelling of the life and times of Buddy Holly, from his meteoric rise to stardom to the unforgettable Clear Lake, Iowa concert. Musical hits include "Peggy Sue," "Chantilly Lace," "La Bamba," "That’ll Be the Day," and more. http://historytheatre.com/

Wilco at Roy Wilkins - Friday (10/2)
This is the most exciting show to come through Roy Wilkins (Rollergirls are in their own category) for the last several years. The Tweedy genius should fill up this old-school auditorium with music heads and hipsters. For those who caught the Son Vold on Sunday, this is a chance to complete the Uncle Tupelo legacy in one short week. With the recent release of their seventh studio album, "Wilco (The Album)," the band not only experienced the most successful sales week in their 15-year history, but they also continued to explore new ground sonically and artistically. Critical response for the new record has been as strong as ever, including a four-star review in Rolling Stone Magazine. Spin Magazine calls the album "fantastic" and according to the L.A. Weekly, the record includes "some of the best songs of his [Jeff Tweedy's] career." http://www.theroy.org/

Juliet Lewis at Station 4 - Saturday (10/3)
Closed circuit to my buddy and neighbor Vic, Juliet Lewis is going to be hanging out in Lowertown this weekend! This actor has been trying to fulfill her rockstar dreams for a few years now; she's back in town, and she seems to have ditched the "licks." Interestingly, in her "day job" as an A-list hollywood star, her new film, Whip It is a Roller Derby film and is out this weekend. It seems simply poetic that she is going to be rocking the official Roller Girls clubhouse. http://www.myspace.com/juliettelewis

Tapes n Tapes get intimate at the Turf - Saturday
All the cool kids seem to be taking on these intimate local club gigs as a way to reward their dedicated fans and remember their roots. Tapes n Tapes will have the Turf bulging at the seams on Saturday. Our local heroes have been lauded nationally and played on some of the biggest festival stages in the world, and yet we still get to see them in our beloved local rock clubs. Pretty cool. http://www.myspace.com/tapesntapes

2009 Fall College Art Tour - Saturday The curators and gallery directors from Augsburg College, Bethel University, the College of Visual Arts, Concordia University, Macalester College, Northwestern College, St. Catherine University, University of Minnesota and the University of St. Thomas invite you annually to a free “neighborhood” gallery crawl including exhibition receptions, refreshments, music and free shuttle buses. http://www.stkate.edu/fallarttour/

That's it for now, but start planning for next week's Art Crawl. With Lowertown's status as the new black, I've got big expectations for the 2009 Fall Art Crawl. Also up next week is a wonderful show at the Grand Hand Gallery w/ Warren and Nancy MacKenzie as well as Kinji Akagawa and Nancy Giple. That's all for this week, but remember that I always appreciate it when you forward this on to your friends and kin. If you want to sign up to recieve this missive on a weekly basis, you can dial up http://stpaul.gov/index.aspx?NID=58 and punch the button of me w/ an orange slice in my mouth.

Rock,

Joe

Saint Paul residents in Saint Anthony Park, Thomas-Dale and Summit-University neighborhoods are eligible for up to $400 worth of home energy saving goods and services through a funding provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, with additional funds from the Saint Anthony Park Community Foundation.

The Neighborhood Energy Service brings together neighborhood organizations to offer residents an energy efficiency program that includes a free workshop on saving energy and money, provides home visit with a Home Energy Squad that will install the energy-saving materials for a $30 co-pay, and provide a one-year of personalized home energy reporting. Neighborhood Energy Service coincides with the launch of the Energy Innovation Corridor, a first-of-its-kind clean energy and transportation model extending from downtown Saint Paul to Target Field in downtown Minneapolis.

To qualify for the Neighborhood Energy Service, homeowners need to attend one of three free workshops where residents will receive a starter kit and information on current home energy use and steps improving energy efficiency. The workshops are:
• 7:15-8:45 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19, at St. Anthony Park Library, 2245 Como Ave.
• 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5., Rondo Community Outreach Library, 461 Dale Street North
• 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at St. Anthony Park Library, 2245 Como Ave.

To register for the workshops, contact the Saint Anthony Park Community Council at green@sapcc.org or 651.649.5992; Thomas-Dale Planning Council at tait@d7mix.org or 651.789.7480; or the Summit-University Planning Council at Irna@Summit-U.com or 651.228.1855. To complete the registration for the Neighborhood Energy Service, homeowners will need to return a completed utility data release form signed by the account holder to a council office before the workshop.

The Neighborhood Energy Connection (NEC) and the Metro Clean Energy Resource Team (CERT) are teaming up with other non-profits, businesses and government to pro¬vide this program in Saint Paul. Partners include The Center for Energy and Environ¬ment, Xcel Energy and the Saint Anthony Park Community Council.

Downtown Saint Paul will become a demonstration for how diversified energy sources can power large-scale buildings, complexes and district systems, thanks to money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

District Energy St. Paul will install solar thermal or hybrid solar thermal/photovoltaic systems using the $1 million grant administered through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its own matching funds. Together with the two cities through the Minneapolis Saint Paul Solar America Cities partnership, District Energy will study both how solar energy can be integrated into existing district energy systems and the value such diversified energy generation brings as a business model and as a stand-alone solar district system. With their sights set on the rooftop of the Saint Paul RiverCentre and an estimated project price tag of over $2 million, this DOE selection was integral to project success.

“These Recovery Act awards will enable Solar America Cities to tackle emerging challenges involving solar energy use in urban environments. The solutions that emerge will accelerate solar energy adoption across the nation,” said JoAnn Milliken, Solar Program Manager, U.S. Department of Energy.

“In recent years, mayors and cities have taken the lead to improve our environment and find innovative solutions to our energy challenges. Now with a partner in the White House who understands the significant role cities play in our nation’s economy, we can move forward with projects that create jobs and solutions to our energy needs,” Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman said.
The project with District Energy is one of 40 projects that were selected nationwide to help speed adoption of solar energy while supporting development of a skilled workforce and continuing to pursue new scientific breakthroughs to increase the efficiency and lower the cost of solar technologies. U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the grant in early October as part of $87 million awarded to universities, electric power utilities, the DOE’s national laboratories, and local governments to support use of solar technologies in U.S. cities. This project was selected to receive $1 million of the $10 million in grants dedicated to Solar America Cities’ Special Projects.

“Finding solutions to our energy needs will lead to job growth and lift our economy. Innovation has driven our state and national economy in the past, and the challenges of today demand we reignite that innovative spirit,” Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak said.

“Meeting the energy needs of our cities requires the integration of multiple, sustainable energy sources, and solar will play a key role,” said District Energy CEO Anders Rydaker. “District Energy is committed to integrating solar into our energy generation portfolio and demonstrating how solar can be used to transform the future of cities throughout the United States.”

In addition to the $1million grant, the Department of Energy also awarded an additional $30,000 to NRG Thermal to conduct a feasibility study on integrating solar into their Minneapolis system.

District Energy St. Paul, a 501(c)(3) non-profit utility, heats and cools more than 80 percent of the buildings in downtown Saint Paul as well as 300 single-family homes. Already, District Energy has made substantial investments in “green” energy, utilizing a combined heat and power (CHP) plant primarily powered by local wood residues. The utility also installed six solar panels near its downtown plant in 2008 for testing. Since its creation in 1979, District Energy has become a model in North America demonstrating the viability of a district heating and cooling system in a major urban setting.

NRG Thermal LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of NRG Energy Inc. which has a global portfolio of projects including wind and solar generation and which provides district and cooling services to over 100 buildings in downtown Minneapolis.

In 2008, Saint Paul and Minneapolis were named Solar America Cities by the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a strategic plan to make solar energy more accessible for homes and businesses by the year 2015. The two cities are partnering with local organizations and businesses including District Energy, NRG Thermal LLC, Xcel Energy, Center for Energy and Environment, freEner-g, Fresh Energy, Green Institute, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Minnesota Department of Commerce, Minnesota Renewable Energy Society and Neighborhood Energy Connection to develop mainstream solar in the coming decade and implement dozens of projects during the next two years.
[Watch the announcement] [Learn more about Solar in the Cities ...]

The City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department is now accepting registrations for Snowboard, Cross Country and Downhill Ski Lessons at the Como Park Ski Center.

The Como Park Ski Center, 1431 North Lexington Parkway, opens on Saturday, December 26 – weather permitting. The Como Park Ski Center is a convenient in-town ski area featuring 1.7 K of lighted cross country ski trails for beginner-level skiing and 5K of intermediate/advanced level groomed classic and skate style cross country trails. Fresh powder is almost always in the forecast thanks to the ski center’s snow machines, and four lighted tow ropes keep twilight winter activities safe. The Como Ski Center chalet offers food service, downhill and cross country ski/snowboard rentals and affordable lessons taught by professional instructors. In addition to Como Park, cross country ski trails are groomed at the Highland 9 and Phalen Golf Courses (cross country skiing is not allowed on the Highland National Golf Course).

Regular Como Park Ski Chalet Hours are: Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sundays, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., and Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 3 - 9 p.m. The Chalet is closed Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays. Extended holiday hours will be offered December 26, 2009 through January 3, 2010 and will be posted as they are announced.

For information about snowboard, cross country and downhill ski lessons, equipment rental, trail conditions, group rates and chalet rentals click here. Or contact Eric Thompson at (651) 266-6143.

Beginning December 26, the Como Park Ski Center Chalet can be reached at (651) 488-9673.

An innovative partnership with the Center for Democracy and Citizenship brings quality youth programming - part of Mayor Coleman’s Second Shift initiative – to Baker Recreation Center. [Watch the video to find out more...]

The City of Saint Paul, Department of Parks and Recreation – in an effort to more effectively manage the deer population in the Highland Park area, by request of the Highland District Council, is partnering with the Metro Bowhunters Resource Base (MBRB) to reduce the deer population in Saint Paul’s Crosby Farm Regional Park. On October 19 - 21 and November 9 - 11, there will be a special permit archery hunt in the park. During these days Crosby Farm Regional Park will be closed to the public.

To establish the hunt, Saint Paul sought the assistance of Ramsey County Parks and Recreation who has worked cooperatively with MBRB since 2000 conducting special permit archery hunts to control deer populations in select Ramsey County parks. Ten different parks and open spaces have been used for the special permit hunts which have eliminated more than 650 deer. This will be the second year a hunt has been held in Crosby Farm Regional Park. For more information and statistics about the deer management program visit Ramsey County Parks and Recreation.

Archers have already been selected for this year's hunt. For information on how to apply for next year, visit MBRB

For specific questions regarding the Crosby Farm Regional Park special permit hunt, contact Adam Robbins at environment@ci.stpaul.mn.us or (651) 632-2457.

For questions regarding the Highland area deer management plan, please contact Kathy Carruth at hdc@visi.com or (651) 695-4005.

Como Campus Manager Michelle Furrer takes you on a brief tour and gives an update of the new Polar Bear Odyssey opening in the spring of 2010. [Watch the Video]

The Saint Paul Planning Commission will appoint a task force to direct the work of crafting a plan for the Smith Avenue Transit Corridor. City staff are seeking recommendations and nominations for task force members. The task force will begin meeting in December and will represent a commitment of between two and 10 hours per month for at least six months. The task force will be chaired by Saint Paul Planning Commissioner Kristina Smitten and West Saint Paul Councilmember Darlene Lewis. The task force will be balanced between West Saint Paul and Saint Paul as well as between residents, property owners, and business owners.
[Additional info...]

FREE Workshop for Struggling Homeowners

Ask questions get free advice - confidentially - from mortgage lending and non-profit mortgage support advisors. Attend an open-house event to learn about what happens during foreclosure and what help and assistance may be available. Counselor & translators will be available in Hmong, Vietnamese, Lao, Chinese, Korean, Cambodian and other Asian Languages. [Additional info...]

The Recovery Act called for a new temporary program - America's Recovery Capital (ARC). ARC loans are designed to provide some temporary relief for viable small businesses with immediate financial hardship. SBA will not be ready to accept loan packages from lenders until June 15.

[Additional info...]

Call today for FREE counseling to learn about the steps necessary to keep your home. [Additional info...]

The video, titled "Fowl" Water and Rubber Ducky Man, is a light hearted demonstration showing how anything that enters the city's storm sewer system will eventually end up in the Mississippi River. [Additional info...]

All arterials and residential streets will be swept.

City officials anticipate that the work will be completed by November 18th, with no sweeping to take place on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3rd, and Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11th.

City residents are advised to take notice of temporary parking restrictions on their streets as the sweeping progresses. Residential streets will be posted with the parking restrictions 24 hours in advance of their being swept.

For questions regarding either the sweeping schedule or the parking restrictions, residents can contact Public Works at (651)-292-6600.

Residents who have questions about what to do with their leaves and other yard waste may take it to any one of several Ramsey County compost sites. For more information about hours and locations of these sites, residents may call (651)-266-1155, or visit the County’s website at www.co.ramsey.mn.us.