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As we step into 2026, we’re filled with gratitude for our community and energized by what’s ahead. The new year is already bringing meaningful momentum. On January 19th, Congressional appropriators announced $30 million for the Reconnecting Communities Program—a national investment shaped by the advocacy, shared narrative, and priorities elevated through ReConnect Rondo's annual Reconnecting Communities Summit.
This progress reflects what’s possible when community voices lead. By convening partners, advocates, and leaders, the Summit helped create the conditions for real systems change—demonstrating the power of strategic convening, relationship-building, and collective action.
As we move forward, we’re excited to deepen connection, uplift community voices, and continue building momentum toward a more just and connected future for Rondo. We’re grateful to keep showing up alongside you—through advocacy, storytelling, and collective action—as we work toward building a bridge to better.
Thank you for being part of this movement. Here’s to a powerful year ahead.
| | | | Rondo Night at the Saint Paul Winter Carnival | | January 29th, 2026 | Landmark Center | 5:30-8:30 PM | | | |
Rondo Night is back at the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, and you’re invited! Join us for this free, family-friendly indoor celebration featuring a special performance by Thomasina Petrus and Dan Chouinard, alongside local Rondo artists and businesses. Enjoy flavorful bites while honoring the history, culture, and future of the Rondo community.
Public safety remains a top priority. Winter Carnival leadership is working closely with the City of Saint Paul and community partners, with additional security and on-site support in place to help ensure a safe, welcoming experience for all attendees.
For the latest updates or any changes to planned events, please visit wintercarnival.com and follow the Saint Paul Winter Carnival on social media. We look forward to seeing you and sharing in the fun, family spirit that makes the Winter Carnival so special. | | | | | |
Honoring Legacy, Shaping Rondo’s Future | |
The Rondo Roundtable is a collective of long-standing and emerging Rondo organizations, businesses, and community leaders working together to steward Rondo’s legacy and guide its future.
Rooted in shared values and lived experience, the Roundtable advances Rondo-centered development and cultural restoration, ensuring community voices remain at the center of how Rondo grows and thrives.
Members include Aurora St. Anthony Neighborhood Development Corporation, Walker West Music Academy, ReConnect Rondo, Model Cities, Inc., Rondo Community Coalition, Central Village Association, Rondo Center for Diverse Expression, NAACP St. Paul Roy Wilkins Memorial Branch #4052, SoulTouch Productions, New Life Possibilities, LLC, along with dedicated community leaders including Mychael Wright, Sherrie Pugh, Marvin Anderson, and Reverend Carl Walker.
As the host of Rondo Night at the Winter Carnival, the Rondo Roundtable brings this work into the community, offering attendees a chance to connect and hear what’s ahead. | | | | | |
MnDot Public Comment Period | Now - March 9 | | | |
MnDOT’s public comment period for the Rethinking I-94 project is still open, and there are multiple ways for community members to share their input. Your voice matters in shaping the future of the I-94 corridor and its impact on connection and equity in Rondo. Comments can be submitted by email or letter, or shared at an upcoming public meeting.
In-Person Public Meeting 📅 January 29 | ⏰ 5:30–8:30 p.m. 📍 Wilder Foundation, 451 Lexington Pkwy N., St. Paul, MN 55104
Virtual Public Meeting 📅 Wednesday, February 4 | ⏰ 12:00–1:30 p.m.
📍Zoom Meeting
We encourage community members to participate and make their perspectives heard—every comment helps inform what comes next. | | | | | |
Say Hello to ReConnect Rondo Now! | |
Big news, Rondo family. Our newsletter has a fresh new name, and it came straight from you.
''ReConnect Rondo Now" was chosen by community vote, and it reflects exactly what this space is meant to be: timely updates, real stories, and a clear window into what’s happening right now and what’s coming next. This isn’t just a name change—it’s a signal. A pulse check. A place to stay connected to the work, the people, and the momentum shaping Rondo’s future. | | | | | | | | | | | | | |