We’re saying hello to some of our neighbors during our member drive, meeting folks who support West St. Paul Reader. Today we’re meeting Matthew Schempp, a teacher at an online school who has lived in West St. Paul since 2006. He’s one of the original supporters who backed the Kickstarter project that launched West St. Paul Reader and has been a member since January 2020.
West St. Paul Love
What do you love about West St. Paul?
We’re a small town nestled between two large cities and the suburban metro. I can walk to the grocery store, to the library, to a brewery, or to the bluffs of the Mississippi River, all in the same day.
Where is your favorite place in West St. Paul?
Thompson Lake and park right now are just stunning. That was a wonderful redesign.
What’s your go-to West St. Paul eatery?
FoodSmith. It’s just great to have a just-this-side of upscale bar and restaurant nearby. It also is a block from my house!
What is West St. Paul’s best kept secret?
We very quietly have some of the best ethnic eateries in the cities, both casual and fine dining. Beirut, Mela Thai, Thai Pepper, Taco Libre, El Cubano, the list goes on.
What do you wish people knew about West St. Paul?
We’re actually a very walkable and bikeable community, when you get off (or under!) Robert Street.
Why did you move to West St. Paul?
I grew up in Mendota Heights, and we were looking for a place to buy our first home. We love the area, the parks and schools are wonderful, Dodge Nature Center is a treasure. It’s been great.
Being a West St. Paul Reader Member
How did you hear about West St. Paul Reader?
Kevin and I were friends before. I’ve been a supporter since the site started. My wife, Stephanie, guest authors often!
Why did you decide to become a member and support West St. Paul Reader?
Local journalism is so important; we can’t afford to live without it. Papers like the Star Tribune or Pioneer Press don’t have the ability to cover municipal politics or the stories of every town they cover. Having a local source for news, from the mundane to the fantastic, is such a vital part of a community.
What do you like most about being a member and supporting West St. Paul Reader?
I like that my monthly donation allows writers to explore topics driven by interest and community welfare, rather than “clicks” or “impressions.”
What’s your favorite West St. Paul Reader story?
“Is West St. Paul getting a Kohl’s?”
Be a Member
You can join Matthew and support West St. Paul Reader. Membership starts at just $3 per month.
Thanks to Matthew for supporting our work and sharing his story.
West St. Paul Reader 