On May 5th the Saint Paul Heritage Preservation Commission gave awards to three Dayton’s Bluff landmarks and the people who have saved them from extinction.

The Stutzman Building (above) at 725-733 E. 7th St. was one of three Dayton’s Bluff buildings that recently received Heritage Preservation Awards.   Photo by Karin DuPaul.

Some of the people responsible for the Mounds Theatre renovation are pictured  here at the awards ceremony (l to r): Fred Kaphingst, Amber Ruth, contractor Bob Raddatz, Joyce Waldon, Steve Ruth and Portage for Youth Executive Director Raeann Ruth.  Photo by Karin DuPaul

The Victorian styled Schoch Building at 374 Maria (corner of Maria and Sixth) has seen  many changes since it was built in 1885. Now it has won an award for being “brought back” by its current owner.  Photo by Karin DuPaul

   The Mounds Theatre at 1029 Hudson Road received an award from the Heritage Preservation Commission in recognition of the vision and the volunteer effort undertaken in the renovation project.  Raeann Ruth, Executive Director of the Portage for Youth, is the driving force behind this project. 
   The Schoch Building at 374 Maria won for successful efforts to “bring back” the building. Lou Sudheimer is the owner/developer of this project. 
   The Stutzman Building at 725-733 East 7th was awarded for perseverance, sensitive design, skill, and energy in this restoration. Carol Carey, Gerry Flannery, Gene Piccolo, and the Upper Swede Hollow Neighborhoods Association are the neighborhood people behind this project.
   Awards also went to such projects as the Cathedral of Saint Paul restoration, the Saint Paul Central Library renovation, the RiverCentre Connection and the Drake Marble Building re-use project. 
   The awards were presented by the Saint Paul Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) and the Saint Paul Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).  The awards committee was composed of members of the HPC and  AIA. 
   The Preservation Awards recognize projects, individuals and organizations that enhance and celebrate Saint Paul’s history and promote preservation values and compatible design for a more livable city.
   This was the 13th year that awards were given out.  This year’s ceremony took place on May 5th at the Clarence W. Wigington Pavilion on Harriet Island. 
   The awards presentation was preceded by a short talk by Architect Dale Mulfinger who discussed the work of twentieth century Minnesota architect Edwin Lundie.

Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary Cleanup 

   The Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary, the East Side's newest park, is a beautiful 27-acre area just below Dayton's Bluff on the Mississippi River floodplain. A former rail yard that has been used for years as an illegal dumping ground, this land needs your help! 
   You can volunteer to pick up trash there -- and be a part of the Mississippi River Relief - Big River Cleanup, which is involving thousands of volunteers in cleaning up 400 miles of the Mississippi River from the Twin Cities to the Quad Cities. Locally the cleanup is being held on Saturday June 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. 
   To register, call 651 739-1127 or online at www.rivercleanup.org and mention that you want to be part of the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary cleanup. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes or boots. Trash bags, gloves and refreshments will be provided. 
   Volunteers will receive a commemorative cleanup t-shirt, a coupon for a free river cruise from the Padelford Packet Boat Co. and a discount to the Science Museum of Minnesota. 
   For more information, contact Paul Nordell of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Adopt-A-River program: 651 297-5476, paul.nordell@dnr.state.mn.us.

Greenspace Summit Held at Metro State

Participants at the recent Greenspace Summit included (l to r):  Chris Nelson, Eunice Golden, Kris Butler-Karlson, and Charlie Golden-Black.  Photo by Karin DuPaul

   The Dayton’s Bluff Greenspace Summit was held on May 10, 2003 at Metropolitan State University. Attendees got to learn about some of the gardening and Greenspace projects in Dayton’s Bluff as well as other areas. 
   Free plants courtesy of the Gardenhouse on Maryland were given to attendees. Garden trellises and gardening tools were some of the door prizes awarded. Sponsors for the Greenspace Summit included Metropolitan State University, Payne Avenue Do It Best Hardware, Finest Wood Trellises, Eastside Landscape Supply & Masonry, Carbone’s Pizza, Leo’s Chow Mien, and the Dayton’s Bluff District 4 Community Council. Thank you to all who helped make this event a success.

Dayton’s Bluff Garden Tours

   Greening Dayton’s Bluff would like to help coordinate three Neighborhood Garden Tours this summer. Last year we had one on the Lower Bluff/Swede Hollow area and one for National Night Out in the Mounds Park Neighborhood. Call Karin at 651-772-2075 if you have a garden that you would like on the tour or if you would like a garden tour in your neighborhood.

Grocery Give-Away

   A Grocery Give-Away will take place on Saturday, June 21 from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Mounds Park United Methodist Church, Euclid and Earl.  Free produce, dry goods and bread items will be given to anyone who can use them.  No registration or sign-up is necessary.  Sponsored by United Methodist churches on St. Paul's east side.

Dayton's Bluff Take a Hike 

   Dayton's Bluff Take a Hike meets on the first Saturday of every month at 10:30 a.m. in Indian Mounds Park at Earl Street and Mounds Blvd. The next Hike is Saturday June 7.
   We will hike from Mounds Park through Swede Hollow Park and then walk the length of the Bruce Vento Recreational Trail (formerly the Phalen Creek Recreational Trail) to its end, near Phalen Park. Along the way we will share stories and learn some local history of the area. 
   The hike is about 6 miles with some moderately rough terrain. Near Johnson Parkway and Maryland, transportation will be available to return to Mounds Park or you may hike back if you wish. 
   Join recreational trail supporters and explore this recreational trail. The paved trail runs from East 7th Street and Payne Avenue through Swede Hollow to Phalen Park. Dayton's Bluff Take a Hike started in December of 1990 and over the years hundreds of people have attended these events.
   For more info, call 776-0550. 

Come to the Carnival

   Dayton’s Bluff Achievement Plus Elementary School at 262 Bates will hold its annual Spring Carnival on Friday June 6 from 4 to 6 p.m.  Join the fun which will include a Dunk Tank, Moon Walk, hot dogs, pizza, cotton candy, balloons, face painting, tattoos and much more. 
   All children must be accompanied by an adult.
   For more information call 651-293-8915.

National Night Out

   National Night Out is on Tuesday, August 5 this year. Neighborhood groups and block clubs planning to celebrate National Night Out and wanting to have the event in the street should start the permit process early. Permit applications need to be in 60 days prior to the event, which in this case is June 5th.
   To make the process easier for community people, the Saint Paul Police Department has made it possible for all 19 Community Councils in Saint Paul to have a notary in the Community Council’s offices. Dayton’s Bluff Community Council has a Notary Public on staff to help make the Street Use Petition process easier
   The Police Department is also asking that neighborhood groups and block clubs get their requests for police to attend National Night Out events in to their Community Council early this year. Please call Karin at 651-772-2075 for more information.

Moundstock 2003 Saturday June 28

   The Portage for Youth invites you to a FREE outdoor concert. This is the third year of a signature community event for Saint Paul's East Side with live music, art and craft vendors, entertainment for the whole family, food and much more.
   The two featured musical acts are Iffy and Mason Jennings.  Other acts include Moses Oakland, Deb Brown and several bands to be announced later.
   The event will be held in beautiful Indian Mounds Park, which is easily accessible via I-94. 
   There is ample street parking in and around the park, so mark your calendars for Saturday, June 28th, 2003 from 11:00 am to 10:30 pm. 
   For more information, visit www.theportage.org.

Vacation Bible School

   Hola!  Come on over to Rancho Roundup this summer at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, on the corner of Forest and Margaret streets.  This five-session Vacation Bible School program meets every day from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on June 16-20. Kids will learn how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, brings kids baa-ck home! Activities include Bible Stories, drama, music, games, crafts, lunch, and more.  Register by calling Bethlehem Lutheran Church at 776-4737.  Hope to see ewe (you) there! 

Calling All Artists

   The Dayton’s Bluff Community Council is putting together an Arts and Culture Directory for the Dayton’s Bluff neighborhood. It will include names and contact information for artists living or working in or near Dayton’s Bluff.  The finished directory will be available in both printed and online versions. A preliminary version will appear on the Dayton’s Bluff website in the near future. 
   “Artist” is being defined here in the broadest sense of the word.  We are being very liberal about the arts. Both amateurs and professionals will be listed.
   If you think that you, your organization or facility should be included in the Dayton’s Bluff Arts and Culture Directory, please call Karin DuPaul at 651-772-2075 or email her at Karin@DaytonsBluff.org. 

Dayton’s Bluff Early Childhood Education Takes a Field Trip to Orchestra Hall

By Patrice Waters 
   Dayton’s Bluff E.C.F.E. (Early Childhood Family Education) recently hopped on a bus for an outing across the river. The Minnesota Orchestra hosted their annual Kinder Konzert at Orchestra Hall. A group of 48 kids, parents, and teachers enjoyed their production of The Tin Forest.  The storybook was written by Helen Ward and Wayne Anderson. The musical version was composed by Steve Heitzeg and narrated by Joanna Cortright. 

A girl with Dayton’s Bluff E.C.F.E gets to fiddle with a violin after attending a Kinder Konzert at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis.

   The children were seated onstage with the musicians. Ms. Cortright did a marvelous job of teaching the children about the acoustics of the hall and proper etiquette while attending a performance. The children had several opportunities to shout "bravo" and to practice making forest noises on cue. Before the musical story began Ms. Cortright introduced the members of the orchestra and their instruments, including: flute, bassoon, contrabassoon, French horn, trombone, violin, bass, percussion, and harp. Each musician explained and demonstrated his or her instrument. 
   During the performance Ms. Cortright read the story and the instruments played the story. The children did a wonderful job of watching for their cues as well. Following the performance the children attended the Sound Factory. A snare drum, xylophone, violin, finger cymbals, and a rainstick were available for the children to play. 
   E.C.F.E. is a great program for children ages birth through 5 years old and their parents. Classes are held at Dayton’s Bluff Elementary School during the day or in the evening. Each class begins with Circle Time, where parents and children are together. Then the parents gather for discussions on topics of interest and help to them, and the children have play and learning time. 
   The staff at Dayton’s Bluff is seasoned, knowledgeable, warm and kind. It's a great place to get together. E.C.F.E. strengthens our community by strengthening our families. E.C.F.E. is busy building a better world! Watch your mail this summer for the E.C.F.E. catalog of classes. Inside will be registration information. Come and join all the fun and learning! 

Dayton's Bluff History Club Seeks Members 

By Steve Trimble
   A small gathering of neighborhood residents met last month to revive the Dayton's Bluff History Club, which had lay dormant since the 1920s. There was no formal program, but they discussed some possible projects for the future and how to include more people. 
   Potential projects ranged from things as simple as researching the history of local churches and giving informal presentations about local history to grandiose projects such as establishing a Dayton’s Bluff history museum.
   People who want to join do not have to be involved in the history of Dayton's Bluff - although several of the members are. For instance, one person had been researching the story of strip and shopping malls in Minnesota. Another was interested in a specific part of the neighborhood's heritage - her own home. While another is studying the history of the Mounds Theatre.
   The Dayton's Bluff History Club invites anyone with an interest in history -- whether you want to research it or just hear what others are doing -- to show up at the next meeting. No major decisions on future directions have been made, so bring your own interests and ideas. 
   If you want to join, please call the Community Council office at 772-2075 and ask for Karin DuPaul. She can tell you when and where the group is getting together and, incidentally, tell you anything you want know about the Hamms Brewery. 

Pop and Beer Boxes No Longer Recyclable

   Starting in June, most pop and beer boxes will no longer be accepted in Saint Paul’s recycling program because of a coating that is added to the packaging. The coating, called “wet-strength,” helps boxboard containers stand up in damp conditions but causes problems when they are recycled.  The companies that use our paper will no longer accept boxboard with a wet-strength coating.
   Pop and beer boxes were accepted for many years because paper producers were able to tolerate a small amount of wet-strength. But more beverages packaged in wet-strength boxes are being sold, while at the same time beverage packagers are adding more wet-strength to boxes in response to concerns that they break down too easily during transport. 
   Saint Paul recyclers already know that boxes from their refrigerator or freezer, which contain the same wet-strength coating, are not accepted. Pop and beer boxes belong to this same group of nonrecyclable containers.
   Common containers that are no longer accepted include 6-pack glass bottle carriers, 12-pack containers of cans and the new “fridge pack” pop containers. These boxes now have to be thrown away. However, pop and beer boxes that are made of corrugated cardboard can still be recycled. Residents with questions can call the Eureka Recycling Hotline at (651) 222-SORT (7678) to talk to a recycling information specialist.

2003 Home Tour  Successful

   Hundreds of people visited Dayton’s Bluff during the Minneapolis/Saint Paul Home Tour held the first weekend in May. People from all over the Metro area, and even a few people from out of state, marveled at the beautiful homes and great people in Dayton’s Bluff.

Home Tour visitors to 661 E. 5th Street  were treated to free barbecued hamburgers.  Photo by Karin DuPaul

Portrait artist Joanne Anderson (right) and a happy customer were part of the Mounds Theatre Arts Show held in conjunction with the Home Tour.  Photo by Fred Kaphingst

   Several houses had nearly 700 visitors during the two days of the tour. 
   Homeowners mentioned that they were very happy about meeting neighbors who they did not know before the Home Tour. 
   Home Tour highlights included the Arts and Crafts show at the Mounds Theatre and the barbecued hamburgers served to visitors at a home on 5th Street. 
   Thank you to everyone who helped with this year’s Home Tour. We are already looking for homes to be on the tour next year. If you have any ideas call Karin at 651-772-2075.

Across My Desk

By Karin DuPaul
   This spring has been busy in Dayton’s Bluff. The work on the Metropolitan State University/Saint Paul Public library is in full swing. Opening is planned in the fall of 2004. Construction of new senior housing on the Johnson Brothers site (Hudson Road and Johnson parkway) should be starting soon.
   This month we learned that a crematorium is planned for the building at 320 Spruce Street in the Lafayette Park neighborhood at the far western end of Dayton’s Bluff. John Huot, one of the partners, stated that they have been planning this project for about 10 years. The facility will only work with funeral homes. John stated that in the years to come 50% of Americans will chose cremation.
   Early in May it was learned that the Saint Paul Planning and Economic Development Department entered into an option to purchase agreement with Howard Gelb for the 8 acres south of Minnehaha of the old Hamm’s/Stroh’s Brewery. This includes the oldest and most historic buildings on the site. Three acres of this property had been leased by the city for use as the northern part of Swede Hollow Park. Somehow the city let the lease lapse some years ago. The city plans for the property are to deed the three acres of Swede Hollow Park to the Parks Dept.. The plan for the other 5 acres is unclear at this point. It is odd that our City Councilmember Kathy Lantry did not know about this until I called her and asked about it. Generally councilmembers are informed about things that pertain to their wards.
   Many people would like to see the old Hamm Brewery buildings saved and reused, as has been done with similar buildings all over the world. Friends of Swede Hollow is one group that has been working on saving the brewery since Stroh closed it in 1997.
   For more information about the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council call 651-772-2075.

Elvira Barnes - A Real Life Survivor

By J. Wittenberg 
   Elvira Barnes is a survivor. 
   And when you read her memoir, called 'Dancing on Black Ice,' you'll no doubt agree with my declaration. 
   Elvira grew up in North Minneapolis, where her parents settled after leaving the Cotton Belt after World War II. This is a story of a girl who overcame teen pregnancies, domestic abuse, and discrimination. Set in the early 50s to the late 60s, this memoir recounts Elvira's struggles, and indelible life experiences, which shaped the woman she is today. 
   From her book, I recall some poignant lines: "I was seen and not heard, filled up and emptied, just a mindless mass of flesh with eyes that are never seen, ears that cannot hear, and words that die in the wind." 
   As a teen mother, Elvira remembered, "I was incarcerated and defenseless in prison where the crime was Motherhood." 
   "This didn't start out as a book at all. It began as a journal," Elvira says, which commenced during her time working at a bank, over her lunch hours. And thus, with daily persevering steps, and 20 years total in the making, this memoir is in print. 
   Elvira has some trepidation in writing this unflinching recollection of her past, but ultimately, she had the courage to present it to the world; irrespective of what those who are described in the book, might think. Amongst the often painful scenes, there is that which holds humor, and vivid descriptions, which illustrate how a community changes historically, and the resulting effects upon its residents. 
   Her memoir shares the topics of body image, religion, family abuse and dynamics. After reading her words, I wonder how often she returns to these memories, how vivid those scenes remain, and how far away they feel. I recall the portion describing her 6th birthday spent in downtown Minneapolis, with the long walk to the Foshay tower, and to the movie house afterwards, to see the 'Creature from the Black Lagoon.' 
   Besides doing a fair sum of promotion for her book, Ms. Barnes is tutoring at Metropolitan State, and will be doing a reading there soon. She is a board member of DAP, the Domestic Abuse Project, and besides being an author, is an activist for women, a graduate of the University of Minnesota, and has worked for more that a decade as a liaison to the governor's office. 
   Ms. Barnes has been, and is available as a speaker on domestic violence, teen parenting, and chemical health issues. Certainly, she does her part to make the community a much better place. 
   I highly recommend 'Dancing on Black Ice,' which can be found at the Metropolitan State library, and is available at the Amazon bookstore in Minneapolis.  Truly, Ms. Barnes' book is proof of what a strong spirited woman can achieve.

“Josh and Sandi” to Premiere at the Mounds Theatre

   The premiere of “Josh and Sandi”, a six-part half-hour comedy for television, is at the Mounds Theatre at 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 14th. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission price is $5. The first three episodes will be screened. 
   After many years of being influenced by television, Josh Margolis and Sandi Le Strange finally have their own cable access television show.  At the heart of the show is the friendship between Josh and Sandi.  They are the singing group, LeStrange!  Sandi is the one who has all the musical talent, but that doesn’t stop Josh from trying.
   In the pilot episode, Josh and Sandi must come up with the rent money after Josh has spent it on an expensive gift for himself.  The two best friends decide to hold an on air telethon to raise their rent money before their slimy landlord, Mr. Ropier, evicts them. 
  Each episode revolves around the adventures of Josh and Sandi and their friends. As the show progresses things begin to unravel. 
   “Josh and Sandi” will air across the country on cable access stations with the option to distribute the show to the video markets and other cable channels. 
   Visit the “Josh and Sandi” website at www.JoshandSandi.com for more details. Reservations can be emailed to info@joshandsandi.com or made by phone at 612-823-0577.

Local Company is Ranked

   On April 4th the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal published its Top 25 Lists.  Custom Office Products, Inc. was ranked 16th for Office Supply Companies headquartered in the nine county metro area.  Custom Office Products is located at 814 E 7th St.

Trinity Catholic School Celebrates Annual Gala

By Sister Virginia Bieren
   On Friday, May 9, Trinity Catholic School Alumni celebrated a Gala Event at the Prom Center in Oakdale. The event theme was "Thanks for the Memories". It was a time to thank teachers of today and yesteryear and supporters of the former schools on the East Side of St. Casimir, St. Patrick, St. John and Sacred Heart Catholic Schools which now comprise Trinity Catholic School. 

Maria O'Keefe (left), first grade teacher at Trinity Catholic School and Sandra Krekeler, principal, celebrate the Teacher of the Year Award from Wal-Mart in Eagan. Maria received a plaque, a Wal-Mart vest with 2003 Teacher of the Year emblazoned on the back and $1,000 for a program of her choice within the school.	Cliff Brunzell, director of The Golden Strings, pleased the guests at Trinity Catholic School Gala Event.

   Cindy Montpetit Schweiger, St. John's '66, was chair of the event. A silent auction was a new feature at this the second annual Gala. Rev. John Malone, pastor of Assumption Church and Alumnus of St. John's was a guest speaker. In addition, Sandra Krekeler, principal of Trinity, presented her dream for the future of Trinity. The dinner and post dinner entertainment featured The Golden Strings directed by Cliff Brunzell. The Golden Strings are a group founded in 1963 that played for 19 years in the Flame Room of the former Radisson Hotel Downtown Minneapolis.
   The Alumni of the former schools sponsor the Gala as the major fundraiser for the year for Trinity. The funds are used for operation of the school and tuition assistance for students attending Trinity. 

Metro State Appoints Provost and VP for Academic Affairs

   President Wilson G. Bradshaw has appointed Dr. William J. Lowe, Albany, N.Y., as Metropolitan State University’s first provost and vice president for academic affairs.  The appointment is effective July 14.
   In addition to being the university’s chief academic officer and deputy chief executive, Dr. Lowe will serve as acting president in President Bradshaw’s absence.  Working with administrators, faculty, staff and students, he will provide academic leadership in setting and meeting the institution’s goals and priorities. 
   Dr. Lowe comes to Metropolitan State from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, N.Y., where he served as vice president for academic affairs and professor of history since July 1997.  Prior to that, he was dean of the College of Liberal Arts and professor of history at the University of Detroit Mercy (1991–1997) and dean of graduate studies and professor of history at Chicago State University (1984 –1991). 
   Dr. Lowe earned a B.A. in history from Michigan State University and a Ph.D. from University of Dublin, Trinity College.  In 1990 he was named a Fulbright Scholar at Trinity College in the Modern History Department. 
   “I look forward to welcoming Dr. William Lowe and his wife Pamela to the university community,” said President Bradshaw.  “During the search process, Bill emerged from a strong pool of candidates, and he made a very positive impression during his campus visit. 
   “Dr. Lowe brings with him distinguished academic credentials and extensive administrative experience.  I was pleased, but not surprised, when the Department of History and Religious and Women’s Studies recommended to me that he be given faculty status as a full professor.”

Dayton’s Bluff Elementary A+ Students Present at National Conference

   On Thursday, April 24, a collaborative team from Dayton’s Bluff Achievement Plus Elementary, Metropolitan State University and the Community Design Center presented at the National Service-Learning Conference.  Members of this team were Ramon and Javonte, students at Dayton’s Bluff, Virginia Kressin, third grade teacher, Evelyn Rolloff, Sarah Roberts and Brian Nerney from Metropolitan State University, Ruth Murphy and Patsy Noble from the Community Design Center.
   Our group presented information, part of it in the form of a skit written by Dayton’s Bluff students, about the rain gardens planted at Dayton’s Bluff Achievement Plus Elementary and in the Dayton’s Bluff area.  They also demonstrated cooking butterfly food and showed how butterfly food attracts butterflies to the rain garden.
   Both boys wrote that they were glad to have the chance to attend the conference: Javonte wrote, “…the best part was when Ramon and I presented our play, even though I was nervous.  I had a good time presenting, learning, and having fun.”
   Ramon wrote, “We showed the group that if you put butterfly food in a rain garden it will attract butterflies.  I am glad I had a chance to tell people about rain gardens.”

Dayton’s Bluff Students Attend Twins Baseball Game

   Twenty-one students from Dayton’s Bluff Elementary, who had been Student-of-the-Month this school year, had the opportunity to attend the Twins’ game against the New York Yankees.  As they were leaving the Metrodome, Twins great Tony Olivia was kind enough to take a picture with the students from Dayton’s Bluff Achievement Plus Elementary School.  The tickets were donated by the Twins.

Reading Tutoring Offered

   The East Side Learning Center provides one-on-one tutoring in reading for students who live or attend school on the East Side.  Summer tutoring sessions will be Monday through Thursday, June 23 to July 24.  Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  For more information or to register call 651-793-7331.

Dayton's Bluff Memories and Musings 

By Steve Trimble
   Politics! I'm guessing that you will be reading this during a legislative Special Session. In the midst of a massive budget deficit, and with major philosophical differences over the role of government, it was more difficult than usual to come to a timely agreement. Plus, at least one of the parties thinks that public opinion will swing their way if the session drags out into June. 
   Of course, I could be wrong. Anyway, this seems to be a good time to look at how local politics seemed to work a century ago. Maybe there are some clues on how to improve today's process. Perhaps not, but either way it makes for an interesting story. 
   While there had been settlement in the Dayton's Bluff area for decades, the 1880s marked a real take-off point. Streetcars were catalysts for the building of large numbers of houses as part of a citywide real estate boom. New churches, schools and businesses were being constructed. 
   As neighborhoods were built up beyond downtown, residents began demanding better city services - Dayton's Bluff was no exception. They had to fight for things that we take for granted today, or at least we did before the latest cutbacks. But unlike today, large numbers of people were willing to get involved. 
   The Dayton's Bluff Citizen's Union was formed in 1884 around a safety issue. They explained that it was set up on a ward basis, "similar to what the Chamber of Commerce is to St. Paul. The people of this union meet every week or two and talk over matters pertaining to the interest of the ward..." 
   Fire protection was their initial concern. A fire had destroyed Schornstein's two story saloon and grocery a year earlier. Several smaller buildings, including a house, a carriage house, a harness shop and a frame feed store were also destroyed. Those trying to save the structures were hindered by the fact that the closest water cistern was at Fifth and Maria, around half a mile away.

The “new” Schornstein's Hall, built in the 1880s, as it looks today.

   The September 1885 meeting of the Dayton's Bluff Union was at the new Schornstein's Hall--you can still see it at the northwest corner of Bates and Wilson. About a hundred people were in attendance. Leaders explained that the Dayton's Bluff area was cut off from the rest of the city in terms of fire protection, with the exception of one chemical wagon. The committee on fire departments was instructed to visit with the chief and see if a horse cart and hook and ladder engine could be stationed in the community. 
   The following week committee members reported meeting with the chief and board of fire commissioners and had forcefully requested that an engine be stationed in Dayton's Bluff. By November 1885 the effort had succeeded. The fire department had been in the area installing fire alarm boxes and in a week the community would have a hose cart. 
   Soon the Bluff up to Maple was protected. The new water system could throw a stream of water 150 to 160 feet and could go 75 feet into the air. There were twenty-seven hydrants already. "The applications for service connections from the Bluff are coming in more rapidly than expected," the newspaper stated, "and if the demand keeps up the force engaged in putting them in will have to be doubled." 
   Encouraged by success, the Dayton's Bluff Union decided to start having semi-monthly meetings. Maybe they had success because lots of people got involved. By the way, when is the last time you went to a neighborhood meeting? Last time I looked, there were still issues to be discussed and things that need to get done. 
   But back in 1885 another safety issue centered on street safety. Third Street was "positively dangerous," one person said, because of the "railway tracks that cross the lower portion of it in such numbers as to render it positively dangerous to life and limb."  Several residents had been injured or killed in the last few years as they traversed the multiple tracks. 
   According to another speaker, "People should be afforded the right to go home to their families at night... without being compelled to run the gauntlet of train cars that come and go, backwards and forwards so frequently over Third Street that it's hardly an even chance that a man can get through without being run over and crushed to death.”
   What they wanted now was a bridge but the railroads were joining together to stop it. "The Union has talked over this matter quite vigorously... and will not rest till some such relief is furnished." Eventually the city agreed and planned to construct a bridge that would connect on the east at Hoffman (Mounds Blvd) rather than staying below the bluff. 
   However, as is the case today, some folks had different opinions on the project. The railroads, as you might suspect, wanted the city to pay for everything. Mr. Middleton was aggressive in his opposition to the bridge going over the Commercial Street area, because it would destroy property values on the land below Hoffman. 
   According to the paper, the discussion then "became very heated, and for about five minutes no one save Mr. Kelly" - no relation to the current Mayor - "could be heard."  It was finally decided that the committee on streets would hold a conference with Mr. Hill of the Manitoba, the city engineer and city officials. They also decided to contact the ward alderman, the equivalent of today's city council member. 
   "Why ain't the Alderman requested to meet with us?" inquired Mr. Kelly.  "All of the aldermen have been elected honorary members and have been invited to come to the meetings a number of times, but they have never responded,” said the chair. “Well, I'll appoint myself a committee of one to notify the alderman, and if he don't show up at the next meeting, I'll ask for his resignation. I don't fool much with these aldermen,” said Mr. Kelly. 
   The bridge was finally built, although I don't know if it was because the committee was successful in their dealing with J. J. Hill or as a result of Mr. Kelly getting tough with the alderman. But there were soon other neighborhood problems that needed to be discussed. 
   Another meeting featured health issues. The citizen's group insisted that the "attention of the health officer should be called to the disease-breeding swamps on the Bluff."  There were also concerns about the possible impurity of the water for Van Buren School.  The neighborhood association responded by passing a resolution directing the city to fill in the pond at Fremont and Mendota. 
   Just think, today people pay top buck to have houses built around bodies of water and the state spends lots of money to restore wetlands. 
   The Pioneer Press summarized one meeting with a variety of small issues: Deifield's permit for an icehouse on his lot could not be rescinded. An addition to the firehouse was being made for the new hose cart. There was a request for a sewer on Cherry. A group petitioned for the removal of an embankment on Third Street between Bates and Maple. Mr. Wagener requested a permit for frame houses on the Seventh street fill, but it was voted down. 
   In late November, the Dayton's Bluff Union decided to move the future location of one of the electric streetlights on Seventh Street from Hope to Eichenwaid. After all, they had raised money to put them in. That night they collected the remainder of the five hundred dollars that was needed for the poles and wire. After that the city paid for the cost of the lighting. With today's new city "fees" for plowing and alleged tree trimming, it looks like we may be heading back to the future. 
   I'll close with a couple of my favorites. In October 1885 residents at a meeting voted to ask the city council to extend the "cow limits" six blocks further out on the Bluff. They apparently didn't think it was proper to keep livestock behind homes. Chickens were still all right.  In December 1885, the Dayton's Bluff Union passed a resolution asking for better streetcar facilities for the area, “especially on opera nights." Somehow I don't think better transportation to the St. Paul Opera is high on the current Community Council's agenda. Of course, I could be wrong. 

Cooking in the Bluff

By Shiela Johnstone

Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

Ingredients: 
6 potatoes, sliced into 1/4 inch slices 
1 onion, sliced into rings 
Salt and pepper to taste 
3 tablespoons butter 
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 
1/2 teaspoon salt 
2 cups milk 
1-1/2 cups shredded Cheddar
cheese 

Directions:
1) Preheat oven to 400°F. Butter a 1-quart casserole dish. 
2) Layer 1/2 of the potatoes into bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Top with the onion slices, and add the remaining potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
3) In a medium-size saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Mix in the flour and salt, and stir constantly with a whisk for one minute. Stir in milk. Cook until mixture has thickened. Stir in cheese all at once, and continue stirring until melted, about 30 to 60 seconds. Pour cheese over the potatoes, and cover the dish with aluminum foil. 
4) Bake 45 to 60 minutes in the preheated oven. 

Nutrition at a glance: 
  Calories 436 
  Protein 18.1g 
  Total Fat 25.1g 
  Sodium 712mg 
  Cholesterol 78mg 
  Carbohydrates 35.2g 

Apple Salad 
(submitted by Kelley H.)

Ingredients:
5 Granny Smith apples - cored and chopped 
5 Red Delicious apples - cored and chopped 
2 (8 ounce) cans pineapple chunks, drained 
2 cups raisins 
1 cup chopped pecans 
1 (16 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed 

Directions: 
In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the apples, drained pineapple, raisins, pecans and whipped topping. Mix wells and serve chilled. 

Hint: 
I like to add ½ cup Marshmallow Cream

If you have comments, suggestions, a special recipe that you would like to share, or you are looking for a special recipe, feel free to contact me through the Dayton's Bluff District Forum.

Write to:
Shiela Johnstone
Dayton's Bluff District Forum
P.O. Box 600511
St. Paul, MN 55106
Email:  shiela2@qwest.net 

East Side Restaurant Review

Yarusso Brothers 
Italian Restaurant
635 Payne Avenue
651 776-4848 

By Barry White
   Yarusso Brothers is a small, family owned Italian place, the kind of place I always keep in mind as a reliable favorite. This yearYarusso Brothers is celebrating it’s 70th year of existence, and they certainly have reason to celebrate. 
   Perched on the western edge of Swede Hollow, the restaurant was founded by Francesco Yarusso, an Italian immigrant from an area just south of Rome. Yarusso Brothers was opened as The Square Deal Café in 1932, and changed its name to Yarusso Brothers in 1947 when Francesco retired. Today, brothers David, Fred and Michael Yarusso keep the family tradition alive, making Italian food the same way their father did, still using the same red sauce recipe created by Francesco Yarusso so long ago.
   Yarusso Brothers is clean and well appointed, and feels the way you would expect a small family run place with a 70 year history to feel. Its walls are decorated with pictures from Italian-American and historic Saint Paul life. There is a beautiful mural on the wall showing what Swede Hollow used to look like, and information on the way life was like there. Just outside the restaurant, Yarusso Brothers features Bocce ball courts and outdoor dining tables, perfect for a casual summer evening. The courts are new and can be lots of fun with a group of friends.
   Yarusso Brothers offers a variety of lunch specials. They have nine different options, all priced at six dollars. These specials involve different combinations of their reliable favorites, such as hot dago sandwiches, Italian meatballs, salads and garlic cheese toast. I chose the # 5, which has a large plate of spaghetti, a small salad and bread. Immediately my waitress returned with four slices of white bread, and two margarine packets. The bread at Yarusso Brothers is not their strong point. It was a bit dry and lacked character. I like a crusty bread with a soft center, and real butter, or maybe some olive oil for dipping, but this is clearly not the oil-dipping kind of place. My salad arrived quickly, and the chopped iceberg lettuce was fresh. The salad also had grated mozzarella cheese, and shredded red cabbage. I had mine with thousand island dressing, and overall the salad was good. 
   The spaghetti at Yarusso’s is really good. The sauce is a sweet, mild red sauce that I have only encountered at other small, family-run Italian restaurants. It was a good size plate, and I had a little room left over so I asked the waitress if they had gelato. You know gelato, the creamy Italian ice cream that’s a bit like frozen yogurt, right? Well, my waitress did not know what it was but she went to ask someone. When she came back and said  “No” I ordered the spumoni ice cream. It was delicious, with rich vanilla and cherry flavors and plenty of pistachios. On other occasions when I have ordered dessert, I’ve had their homemade tiramisu, which is absolutely delicious. 
   Some of the other items that I have enjoyed at Yarusso Brothers over the years are the hot dago sandwich, the mostaccioli, and the pizza. They have all been good, and I plan on trying some of the other entrees like the lasagna, Italian style ribs, and the baked Italian catfish, which are among the nightly specials.
   Yarusso Brothers features a full bar, which incidentally is always playing the entire Godfather series on the TV mounted above the bar. The bar has a good selection of wine and beer, and is really a nice place to sit and take in the atmosphere. Yarusso Brothers also has a catering service, and a take-out menu. Yarusso Brothers doesn’t accept credit cards, and is open everyday.
   In a new monthly column, Mounds Park resident Barry White will describe his experiences at area restaurants. You may contact him at barrytoddwhite@hotmail.com with comments or suggestions for future reviews.

Archbishop Flynn Attends Dedication at Marian Center

By Jeffrey Thorne
Administrator, HealthEast Residence – Marian of Saint Paul
   On Saturday May 17th the community came together to celebrate the Grand Opening of HealthEast Residence – Marian of Saint Paul and the Chapel of St. Mary at Marian Center.  The new residence includes 71 independent living and 56 assisted living units for seniors.  The beautiful campus includes a library with a fireplace, a fitness room, gardening room, a pub and a stunning courtyard with a putting green, which will be completed later this summer.
   The celebration began with Archbishop Harry Flynn blessing and dedicating the Chapel of St. Mary at Marian Center.  The Chapel was built through a gift from Catholic Services for the Elderly, the founders of Marian Center.  Archbishop Flynn then celebrated an outdoor mass for over 500 people under a large tent.

Archbishop Harry Flynn blessed and dedicated the Chapel of St. Mary at Marian Center.    Photo by Robert Johnstone

   The day of celebration included a program emceed by the former President of Catholic Services for the Elderly, Richard Clements.  The speakers included Jeffrey Thorne, Administrator of the Marian of Saint Paul campus, Tom Doran, Asset Manager for Governmental and Educational Assistance Corporation, the financial partner for the Residence, Vicki Tobroxen, Director of Senior Housing Development for HealthEast and Roger Foussard, Chairperson of the Board of Directors for HealthEast.  Ellie Donovan, one of the primary founders of Marian Center also spoke passionately about the realization of a dream for Catholic Services for the Elderly.
   A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to officially open the new Residence immediately after the presentations.

Cutting the ribbon to open the new Residence are (left to right): Roger Foussard (Chairperson of the Board of Directors for HealthEast), Ellie Donovan (a primary founder of Marian Center), and Tom Doran (Asset Manager for Governmental and Educational Assistance Corporation).   Photo by Robert Johnstone

   Entertainment for the celebration included the Calhoun Isles Community Band and the Minnesota Scottish Celtic Dance Association.  The dancers were accompanied by Mike McCoy on the bagpipes and Steve Sutherland on the drums.  Tours of the new senior housing and chapel were also provided to the community.
   Thank you to our caring and generous community of donors.  It is through your generosity that the Chapel of St. Mary at Marian Center, its furnishings, and Gateway to the Care Center were made possible. Also thanks to everyone who planned, organized, and worked this event.
   For more information about St. Paul’s newest senior housing, please call (651) 771-2914.