Dakota County moonshots and milestones

By Joe Atkins | Dakota County Commissioner | June 2025

The six-hour flight was fraught with danger: a life-threatening cabin pressure issue arose, oxygen levels depleted rapidly, and radio failure forced Kittinger to rely solely on Morse code to communicate with ground control. These vital Manhigh missions tested early versions of space capsules, pressure suits, telemetry and communication systems. Most importantly, they tested the ability of humans to function in the harsh environment of near-space. Capt. Kittinger passed the test with flying colors. He was reportedly so disappointed when ordered to descend that his defiant Morse code response became legendary: “Come up and get me.”

A veteran’s epic run for remembrance – Fast forward a few decades. June 2000 saw another remarkable feat of endurance with local roots. South St. Paul resident Tom Schepers, a decorated Vietnam War veteran awarded both the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, embarked on an epic 3,300-mile run from Camp Pendleton, Calif., to Washington, D.C. He ran to raise awareness and support for the National World War II Memorial. Throughout his journey, Tom carried the American and POW/MIA flags on a 10-foot pole – a familiar sight for many who saw him training around town or running in Twin Cities marathons. Tom began his run on June 6, 2000, the anniversary of D-Day, and completed his grueling five-month trek on November 11, 2000 – Veterans Day. In honor of Tom’s incredible determination and the memory of all who served, especially as we mark the anniversary of D-Day this month, we say thank you to our veterans.

Notorious gangsters in West St. Paul – History isn’t always heroic. Sometimes it’s hidden in unexpected places. Ninety-two years ago this June, an unassuming, still-standing house at 1031 Robert St. in West St. Paul served as a hideout for some of America’s most notorious kidnappers and bank robbers: the Barker-Karpis Gang. Ma Barker and her associates laid low at the home in 1933, between infamous crimes. They had already kidnapped Hamm’s Brewing heir William Hamm, Jr., on June 15, 1933, releasing him five days later for a $100,000 ransom. While plotting their next moves – the kidnapping of St. Paul banker Edward G. Bremer, Jr., and a payroll robbery in South St. Paul – they kept busy robbing banks.

The Bremer kidnapping occurred in January 1934, netting the gang a $200,000 ransom (nearly $4.6 million in today’s value). These high-profile kidnappings garnered national attention, partly due to the Lindbergh baby kidnapping in the same era and President Franklin D. Roosevelt mentioning them in a fireside chat. This publicity proved crucial when a vigilant neighbor recognized Ma Barker’s picture in a detective magazine and alerted the police. Tipped off, the gang fled just before law enforcement arrived. Bernice Hannegraf, who lived next door as a 10-year-old in 1933, later recalled Ma Barker as a friendly, short, stout woman whose sons constantly carried violin cases. “We thought they played in orchestras,” she remembered.

Dakota County government: behind the headlines, building the future – While headlines often focus on daring feats or dangerous criminals, the essential work that keeps our community strong and moving forward happens steadily, often without fanfare. Capt. Kittinger’s record-breaking flight wasn’t just a moment of daring, it was built on years of meticulous preparation and innovation, much like the essential services Dakota County provides today. From maintaining safe roads (infrastructure) to protecting our natural resources, our work requires steady investment and teamwork.
Tom Schepers’ inspiring cross-country run exemplifies the grit, heart and perseverance needed to achieve difficult goals. This spirit drives our work in Dakota County as we tackle complex challenges like enhancing mental health support and serving our veterans and families.

And while the Barker Gang’s West St. Paul hideout is a stark reminder that crime can touch any community, it also underscores the importance of vigilance, community partnerships and effective law enforcement – all priorities for Dakota County.

This commitment to excellence isn’t just an aspiration, it’s delivering results that have earned national recognition. In fact, Dakota County recently made history of its own, becoming the only county in the country to receive the nation’s top service awards in three separate, critical areas – public safety, public health, and infrastructure – all within the last seven years. These honors from respected bodies like the National Association of Counties and the National Association of Cities and Counties Health Organization affirm that our collaborative approach is building a stronger, healthier, and safer future right here.

These stories from our past – of ambition, dedication and even notoriety – remind us that history is made here every day. Whether reaching for new heights, showing profound resilience, or working together to keep our neighborhoods safe, the common thread is collaboration toward a shared purpose. That’s the work we focus on every day in Dakota County – partnering with our residents to build a strong, safe and vibrant future for South St. Paul, West St. Paul, and all our Dakota County communities.

Joe Atkins represents District 2 on the Dakota County Board, which includes South St. Paul, West St. Paul and Inver Grove Heights. He welcomes feedback. To share comments, concerns or questions, contact him at Joe.Atkins@co.dakota.mn.us or 651-438-4430.

Dakota County: Looking Back, Looking Ahead (May 2025)
Dakota County libraries named best in Minnesota (April 2025)
Dakota County challenges and opportunities in 2025 (March 2025)
10 lessons from a year using AI in Dakota County (February 2025)

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