Originally published in the Park Bugle, February 2026.
On Saturday, January 10, neighbors gathered at Seal Hi-Rise for an afternoon that felt quietly special. Outside, winter held its grip on St. Anthony Park. Inside, the community room filled with conversation, music, and the steady rhythm of people coming and going for another helping of food.
Hosted by the St. Anthony Park Community Council Equity Committee, the annual community meal has become a simple but meaningful tradition – a chance to check in with one another during the long stretch of winter and share space without an agenda.
“There’s something grounding about sitting down together in January,” said Melissa Pappas, Equity Committee co-chair. “This isn’t about programming or presentations. It’s about creating a place where neighbors can relax, talk, and feel connected to the people around them.”
Residents of Seal Hi-Rise were joined by neighbors from across the community, with conversations flowing easily between tables. Live music from Rob Stokes and friends added warmth to the room, providing a familiar soundtrack as people lingered longer than planned.
The meal itself was made possible through generous support from local businesses, including Herbst Eatery and Farm Stand, Lanna Thai, Colossal Cafe, Hampden Park Co-Op, and Tim and Tom’s Speedy Market. Volunteers helped serve and keep things moving, but the afternoon never felt rushed.
John Maurer, SAPCC Treasurer and Equity Committee member, reflected on the scene as neighbors chatted well past lunch. “You can feel when something is working,” he said. “People aren’t checking the time. They’re talking, laughing, and settling in. That’s when you know a space feels welcoming.”
As the afternoon wound down, the room slowly emptied – coats zipped, leftovers packed, conversations promising to continue another day. SAPCC extends its thanks to the Seal Hi-Rise residents for once again opening their community space and helping make the gathering feel at home.
In a season that can feel long and quiet, the Seal Hi-Rise community meal offered a reminder that connection doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a shared table, familiar music, and time to simply be neighbors together.