Category Archives: Meeting Highlights

November 16, 2022 eNews

Give Today to Support the ANA!

We hope you’ll join us in supporting the Armatage Neighborhood Association with a Give to the Max Day donation this year. Give to the Max Day is tomorrow (Nov 17), but you can give early today. With your help, the ANA works to make Armatage a place where all are welcome, empowered, and connected through community-building events, environmental work, safety initiatives, advocacy and communications that keep you informed and engaged.

Big or small, EVERY donation matters! Give today at givemn.org/organization/Armatage-Neighborhood-Association As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, every donation to the ANA is tax-deductible and eligible for an employer match.

2022 Year in Review

Here’s what your neighborhood association did to build community, bring neighbors together, educate and advocate in 2022:

Fire & Ice Skating Party with Armatage Park (Jan)
Green Team Monthly Reading Circle (Feb-Sep)
Green Team Regenerative Agriculture series (Mar)
Earth Day Neighborhood Clean-up (Apr)
Tech Help for Seniors drop-in event (Apr)
First-ever Armatage Pet Fest (May)
Garden Tool Swap with City of Mpls (May)
Annual Meeting & Board Election (May)
Movie in the Park with Armatage Park (Jun)
Garden Evolution Workshop (Jun)
Armatage Summer Jam (Aug)
Rain & Pollinator Garden Program (Aug)
Fall Fun at the Washburn Tot Lot (Sep)
Electronics Recycling Event (Sep)
Fall Neighhborhood Clean-up (Oct)
Halloween Decoration Tour (Oct)
Holiday Light Tour (Dec)
New Washburn Tot Lot pollinator garden coming in 2023!

Sign up for the Holiday Light Tour

Enjoy the colorful city streets and light displays of the Armatage AND Kenny neighborhoods this holiday season! The tour is self-guided and open to all! This year’s tour map will be available on Dec 8 at armatage.org/2022holidaylights/ Please be respectful of neighbors on your adventure. If you drive, please turn off your vehicle when you arrive at each stop.

Sign up for the Tour by Dec 6

If you live in Armatage or Kenny and love to decorate for the holidays, sign up to be a part of the Holiday Light Tour! The deadline to register is Tuesday, December 6 at 11:59pm. Learn more and sign up here!

Nov 15, 2022 Meeting Recap

Thanks to everyone who joined last night’s neighborhood meeting to meet our new Hennepin County Commissioner, Debbie Goettel! Unfortunately the MPS School Board meeting was rescheduled for last night so we’ll work to get Rep. Ira Jourdain at a future meeting. The ANA Board approved its 2023 budget and 2023 staffing contracts for Coordinator, Lauren Anderson, and Accountant, Rachel Ireland-Henry (welcome back, Rachel!).

Neighborhood Road Closures

There will be several street closures this month due to CenterPoint Energy’s ongoing Upton Ave S Pipeline Replacement Project.

50th St at Upton Ave S: closed 11/8 and reopening on 11/15.
54th St at Logan Ave S: closed 11/15 and reopening on 11/23.
54th St Eastbound between Penn and Oliver Aves S: closed on 11/15 and reopening on 11/2; one lane of Westbound traffic will be maintained.

Please note that W 50th and W 54th Streets will NOT be closed at the same time.

Public Forums on Police Oversight Changes

Join a City of Minneapolis public forum to hear about the proposed Community Commission on Police Oversight, which would serve as a single community-driven group responsible for the civilian roles in reviewing misconduct investigations and providing oversight for transparent discussions on policing practices, presentations from City officials or staff, and community input. The goal is to increase transparency and to effectively monitor and identify policing patterns, trends, and outcomes for discussion at the commission’s public meetings.

Public forum dates:

Mon, Nov 21 from 6-7:30 pm at Powderhorn Rec Center (3400 15th Ave S)
Mon, Nov 28 from 6-7:30 pm on Microsoft Teams

Southwest High School Open House

Southwest High School is hosting a Prospective Student Open House on Tuesday, November 29 at 6:30 p.m. If you have an incoming high schooler for the 2023-2024 school year, come check out the event and learn about all the fabulous offerings at our community high school. For more info, visit southwest.mpls.k12.mn.us

Give Feedback on the Mayor’s Proposed City Budget

Give feedback on Mayor Jacob Frey’s recommended 2023-2024 City budget through a public hearing or online comment. The proposed 2023 budget is $1.66 billion and the 2024 budget is $1.71 billion. The proposed tax levy increase for 2023 is 6.5% and is expected to be 6.2% in 2024. Visit the City’s website to learn more about the mayor’s recommended budget, key dates in the approval process, FAQs and more.

Online comments (click here to submit) will be entered into the public record and shared with the mayor and council members.

There is one final public hearing at 6:05pm on Tuesday, Dec 6 at Room 317, City Hall, 350 S Fifth St. Learn more about participating here. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget after the hearing on Tuesday, Dec 6.

Are You Signed up for Snow Emergency Alerts?

Snow season is here so now is a great time to make sure you’re signed up to receive snow emergency alerts. You can sign up for text, email and phone alerts and download the Minneapolis Snow Emergency app at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/snow/snow-emergencies/snow-updates/

When a snow emergency is declared, parking rules take effect so plows can clear the streets. Plowing the streets completely requires vehicles parked on streets to move. We all have to work together to do our part and follow the parking rules so plows can do the best job possible and we can avoid a ticket and tow.

Minneapolis Launches New Animal Foster Program

Can you help animals in need? Minneapolis Animal Care & Control has launched its new animal foster program and you can volunteer to temporarily provide animals extra care, attention and homes.

MACC provides all supplies and medical care. Fosters provide animals with care, play, exercise and socialization. Animals that are placed with volunteers in the foster program may include those who are recovering from surgery or illness, need temporary housing due to an emergency or domestic violence, are too young to be adopted, or need a break from the shelter environment. Learn more and apply here.

Field + Festival Holiday Market at Wagners

Field + Festival’s popular holiday markets at Wagner’s Garden Center are BACK! Check out the food and maker market series every Saturday and Sunday from 10am–2pm this holiday season. The fun happens inside the Wagners greenhouses, a warm escape perfect for holiday shopping!

Check out each week’s participating vendors and learn more at https://www.fieldandfestival.com/events

November is National Native American Heritage Month

What started at the turn of the century as an effort to gain a day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the U.S., has resulted in a whole month being designated for that purpose.

If you’d like to learn more, or want to celebrate the month with your family, the Meet Minneapolis has an excellent website that shares events, local restaurants, and retailers that honor our Indigenous people’s heritage. Celebrating Native American Heritage Month in Minneapolis | Meet Minneapolis | Meet Minneapolis

One of the very first proponents of an American Indian Day was Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Indian, who was the director of the Museum of Arts and Science in Rochester, N.Y. He persuaded the Boy Scouts of America to set aside a day for the “First Americans” and for three years they adopted such a day. Rev. Sherman Coolidge, an Arapahoe, called upon the country to observe such a day. Coolidge issued a proclamation on Sept. 28, 1915, which declared the second Saturday of each May as an American Indian Day and contained the first formal appeal for recognition of Indians as citizens.

The year before this proclamation was issued, Red Fox James, a Blackfoot Indian, rode horseback from state to state seeking approval for a day to honor Indians. On December 14, 1915, he presented the endorsements of 24 state governments at the White House. There is no record, however, of such a national day being proclaimed. Sadly, it took until 1990 for President George H. W. Bush to approve a joint resolution designating November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.”

Native Americans have been living in America for a very long time. They are not a single nation but include a variety of cultures, nations, and languages. Some people believe that they have been living on the sub-continent for over 30,000 years. The 10 largest Native American tribes are Navajo, Cherokee, Sioux, Chippewa, Choctaw, Apache, Pueblo, Iroquois, Creek, and Blackfeet, according to census data from 2010. The government of Native Americans serves as the model of federated representative democracy. The government system of the U.S. is based on the system in which the power is distributed amongst the central authority and smaller political units.

Thank you to Armatage neighbor, Sheila Dingels, for this write-up!

October 25, 2022 eNews

The Halloween Tour is Here!

Enjoy the sights and frights around Armatage AND Kenny for this year’s Halloween Tour, which runs each night from 6–8pm through October 31! The tour is self-guided and great for all ages with 23 fabulous displays. Please be respectful and minimize idling if you drive.

Find the tour map and a PDF to print with all the tour stops at armatage.org/2022halloweentour/ Once you’ve visited every address on the tour, head back here to vote for your favorites in the following categories: Best Use of Pumpkins, Spookiest, Armatage Neighborhood Fave and Kenny Neighborhood Fave. The display with the most votes in each category will get a $50 gift card generously donated by Book Club at 54th & Penn!

Oct 18, 2022 Meeting Recap

The ANA had a great October meeting with Park Commissioner Cathy Abene and Aryca Myers from the City’s Neighborhood & Community Relations Department. Commissioner Abene walked the ANA through the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board’s proposed budget and answered questions on low-cost youth programming and repairs for the Lake Harriet Bandshell. The ANA Board also went through its 2023-2024 city funding applications, outlined and edited engagement plans, and approved the final draft. The meeting wrapped up with a quick refresher board training.

Thinking of Adding Rooftop Solar?

If you’re thinking about going solar, it’s easier now with the Solar United Neighbors Twin Cities Area Solar Co-op. Solar United Neighbors is a nonprofit that has done more than 350 solar co-ops around the country helping over 7,400 people go solar. Solar co-ops are neighbors joining together to get the best price and service from a solar installer, tap into the expertise at Solar United Neighbors, and support each other through the process and Members will access incentives including Minneapolis Green Cost Share funds.

Co-ops are free to join and there’s no obligation/ Learn more, including how to join, at www.solarunitedneighbors.org/twincities and attend an upcoming webinar:

6:30pm Tues, Oct 25 Register.
6:30pm Tues, Dec 6 Register.
6:30pm Tues, Jan 24, 2023 Register.

Public Hearing for MPD Chief Nominee Tomorrow

The City Council’s Public Health and Safety Committee will hold a public hearing tomorrow (Wed Oct 26) at 1:30pm at City Hall on Mayor Jacob Frey’s nomination of Brian O’Hara to serve as police chief. See below for meeting information and learn more about participating in a public hearing including how to stream it here.

Public hearing on nomination of Brian O’Hara for police chief
1:30 pm on Wednesday, Oct. 26
City Council’s Public Health & Safety Committee, City Hall, 350 S Fifth St, Room 317

Room 317 will be open 30 minutes prior to the meeting and you are welcome to register to speak.

Get Ready to Vote in the 2022 Election

The November 8 election is almost here! Make sure you’re ready to cast your ballot. We’ve included lots of helpful links below but if you’ve got more questions, https://vote.minneapolismn.gov is sure to have the answer!

Vote Early: any Minneapolis resident can vote early at the Early Vote Center at 980 East Hennepin Ave, which is open 7 days a week. Learn more at https://vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/vote-early-in-person/
Vote on Election Day: double check your polling place at https://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/ Polls are open from 7am–8pm. While you’re there, be sure to thank your precinct’s poll workers!
Check Voter Registration: check if you’re registered to vote at https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx You can also register to vote at your precinct on Election Day.
See a Sample Ballot: find out what’s on the ballot at vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/ballot
Vote by Mail: TODAY is the last day to request a mail-in ballot. Visit http://vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/vote-by-mail to apply.

21-Day Equity Challenge

In 2021, the United Way of Olmstead County challenged Minnesotans with a powerful opportunity for learning, action, and growth. The concept was simple – spend 10-15 minutes a day learning about equity and justice issues. Although you cannot sign up to receive daily emails any longer, all 21 days of activities can still be accessed on their website. Activities include watching short videos, reading articles, and listening to music; all things you can do from the comfort of your home. More than 1500 Minnesotans participated in October of 2021; will you challenge yourself to participate now? Access the activities here: 21-Day Equity Challenge | United Way of Olmsted County (uwolmsted.org)

“We must see who benefits from their race, who is disproportionately impacted by negative stereotypes about their race, and to who power and privilege is bestowed upon – earned or not – because of their race, their class, and their gender. Seeing race is essential to changing the system.” – Reni Eddo-Lodge

Thank you to Armatage neighbor, Sheila Dingels!

Keep Leaves Out of the Street

Please do your part to protect our local waterways and keep your leaves out of streets and storm drains. Collect leaves and other yard waste and place them next to your regular recycling and garbage containers for city crews to haul. You can also use leaves as mulch in your garden, mow them into your lawn, or add them to your backyard compost. In Minneapolis, it is illegal to rake leaves from your yard into the street (Title 17, § 427.270 of the Minneapolis Code).

Decomposing leaves wash into storm drains and eventually end up in Minneapolis’ lakes, streams, and the Mississippi River where they over-fertilize the water and help harmful aquatic plants and algae thrive. The result is murky water that isn’t good for swimming or fishing and harms wildlife. Thanks for doing your part this fall! Visit minneapolismn.gov/ solid-waste/yardwaste/ for more information or call 612-673-2917.

Street Sweeping Has Begun

Watch the progress, look up your sweeping date, and get all your street sweeping questions answered at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street–sweep/

Crews will post temporary “No Parking” signs at least 24 hours in advance so streets will be clear of cars when they’re swept. Anyone who parks on the street will need to follow posted parking rules or their cars may be ticketed and towed.

Neighborhood Funding Changes for 2023

The Southwest Connector released released a story on the reduced funding for many neighborhoods including Armatage starting this January. In previous years, Armatage received around $31,000/year in funding and as of January 1 that number will drop to just over $14,000/year, which is a big change. Please check it out and learn more here.

Pumpkins Can Go in Organics Recycling

When you’re done with your carved pumpkins and other gourds, you can put them in your green organics recycling cart. They don’t need to be bagged but do remember to remove any candles or lights first.

If you haven’t signed up for organics recycling yet, you can also put them with your other yard waste. Added synthetic materials such as paint, permanent markers, glitter or jewels make that part of the pumpkins non-compostable, and then they have to go in the black garbage cart.

Remember: Wrappers from Halloween candy go in the garbage. They are not recyclable or compostable. Find more information on organics recycling on the Solid Waste & Recycling webpages.

Runway 17/35 has Reopened

Runway 17/35 at the Minneapolis-St.Paul International Airport (MSP) reopened last week after being closed since September 6 for safety area restoration work adjacent to the runway. Aircraft operating at MSP had been directed to use Runways 12L/30R and 12R/30L while Runway 17/35 was closed. This caused an increase to air traffic over southwest Minneapolis. More information about the project is available here.

Now that Runway 17/35 is open we can expect a return of typical aircraft activity. Anyone with questions regarding airfield or aircraft noise and/or runway closures may call the Community Relations Office at 612-726-9411.

Apply for Neighborhood Traffic Calming by Nov 1

Each year the City of Minneapolis receives 2,500+ requests for traffic calming measures – far more requests than resources. In an effort to better serve residents, the City just launched a new Traffic Calming Request Process! Visit https://bit.ly/mplstrafficcalming to learn more and apply for traffic calming at an intersection or on a street around Armatage or anywhere in Minneapolis now through November 1!

The ANA submitted comments on this process this past winter and are glad to see the application launch. Please go check it out!

Weekly Yard Waste Collection is Back!

Weekly yard waste pickup is back and the yard waste collection season has been extended through the end of November going forward to catch all those late-to-fall leaves! The week of Nov 28 will be the final week for collection of leaves, brush and other yard trimmings.

Set out property prepared yard waste at your alley or curb next to your carts by 6am on garbage/recycling day. You can use a reusable container, compostable bags (kraft paper bags or BPI-certified compostable bags – look for the BPI logo) or bundled branches string or twine (no wire or tape). Learn more about yard waste collection requirements here.

Help Needed: Racial Housing Covenant Interviews

Do you live in a home that had a racial housing covenant? Daniel Rosenblum, a visiting PhD researcher working with the Mapping Prejudice Project, is looking for residents from Armatage who would be open to participating in interviews. This would be a great opportunity to share your perspective on your home, neighborhood, racial covenant histories, and recent events in Minneapolis in relation to covenant data compiled by the Mapping Prejudice Project.

To sign up, contact Daniel Rosenblum at rosen918@umn.edu or 267-337-0670.

Enjoy the eNews? Support Our Work

The Armatage Neighborhood Association works to make Armatage a place where all are welcome, empowered, and connected through safety initiatives, community-building events, environmental work, advocacy and communications that keep you informed and engaged.

Big or small, EVERY donation matters! Give today at www.givemn.org/organization/Armatage-Neighborhood-Association As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, every donation to the ANA is tax-deductible and eligible for an employer match.

September 22, 2022 eNews

Electronics Recycling & Paper Shredding Event This Saturday!

Armatage is co-sponsoring an e-waste and paper shredding recycling event this Saturday (Sept 24) from 9am–12pm! Bring documents, tablets, computers, phones, peripherals (cords, computer parts, keyboards, etc.) and small appliances for safe recycling AND data destruction. The suggested donation is $5 (or $5 + $5 to sponsor a neighbor), but no one will be turned away. Cash and cards will be accepted on-site.

**Friendly reminder that Mpls Solid Waste & Recycling customers can also set out two electronics items every week and recycle paper in their blue cart for no extra fee!** Learn more at armatage.org/ewaste.

Sept 20, 2022 Meeting Recap

Thanks to Council Vice President Linea Palmisano for joining this week’s ANA Monthly Meeting. The ANA Board discussed the new city traffic calming process (see below for more info) and were joined by neighbor Lara Bergman who represented a group of neighbors that are planning to apply for traffic calming measures at 57th & Penn. PhD candidate Daniel Rosenblum gave an overview on his project to interview residents of homes that had racial housing covenants (more info below). The ANA Board also discussed its 2023-2024 city funding applications. Funding for the ANA is set to drop to $14,131 per year on January 1, 2023.

Fall Neighborhood Clean-up

Join the Armatage Green Team for our annual fall clean-up of our neighborhood streets, sidewalks, and parks on Sat, Oct 1 from 9–11am! No need to register – just show up! Every single person who volunteers makes a huge impact and this is a great, meaningful opportunity for kids, teens and adults to show our neighborhood pride and keep trash and recycling from polluting our waterways. Learn more at armatage.org/events/clean-ups/

Register for the Kenny & Armatage Halloween Tour

Registration is open for this year’s Halloween Tour! We’re excited to partner with our neighbors in Kenny on this year’s tour. Learn more and sign up at armatage.org/2022halloweentour/ through Oct 19. By signing up, you agree to have your decorations up each night of the tour AND to have the your address published on our map.

Visitors will be able to vote for their favorite displays in each category: Best Use of Pumpkins, Spookiest, Armatage Neighborhood Fave and Kenny Neighborhood Fave. HUGE thanks to Book Club at 54th & Penn for generously donating gift cards for this year’s prizes!

New Neighborhood Traffic Calming Request Process

The ANA submitted comments on this process this past winter and are glad to see the application launch. Please go check it out!

Fall Fun Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Fall Fun at the Washburn Tot Lot on Saturday! It was such a blast to see so many of you! Special thanks to our renters who stopped by and everyone who gave input on the new community pollinator garden! Stay tuned for more information on the garden.

Thanks also to our event partners: Move Minnesota, Metro Blooms, League of Women Voters, and Minnehaha Creek Watershed District.

Help Needed: Racial Housing Covenant Interviews

To sign up, contact Daniel Rosenblum at rosen918@umn.edu or 267-337-0670. Daniel swung by this week’s ANA Monthly Meeting and will give a longer talk about this project at our December 20 meeting.

Register for Fall Park Programs

Fall is here and it’s a perfect time to register new programs at your local Minneapolis parks! There are some especially great programs for toddlers, preschoolers and older adults – check them out here!

Find and register for all activities and programs at https://apm.activecommunities.com/minneapolisparks/Activity_Search

Free Meals and Snacks for Youth 18 and Under

Whether it’s after school, on school-release days, or during summer, kids 18 and under can visit participating community sites for no-cost healthy meals and snacks from Minneapolis Public Schools. Children do not need to attend Minneapolis Public Schools to participate! Find the full list of participating community sites at https://nutritionservices.mpls.k12.mn.us/community_park_menus

Hearing Increased Airplane Traffic? Here’s Why!

Runway 17/35 at MSP Airport is closed for a runway restoration project, likely through mid-October. Flights that would normally use this runway are currenly directed to the other runways, which bumps up the airplane traffic (and likely noise) that we experience in Southwest Minneapolis.

Runway use and flight activity information are available on the MAC’s FlightTracker. Anyone with questions about runway closures may call the Metropolitan Airports Commission’s community relations office at 612-726-9411.

National Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15th-October 15th is National Hispanic Heritage Month. September 15th was chosen as the commemoration date because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Hispanic countries. It is the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores, which marked the start of the Mexican War of Independence and thus resulted (in 1821) in independence for the New Spain Colony, which is now Mexico and the Central American nations of Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the history, culture, and achievements for the United States. It is also a time for the U.S. Military to honor both fallen and active-duty Hispanic Americans who served in the armed forces. Sixty-one people of Hispanic heritage have been awarded the Medal of Honor.

This year’s theme is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. The theme is to encourage all voices to be represented and welcomed to help build stronger communities and a stronger nation. Did you know that Latinos are the largest ethnic minority (57.5 million) in the U.S. and that 40 million U.S. residents aged 5 and older speak Spanish at home?

Meet Minneapolis has compiled a list of art studios, markets, restaurants and special events where you can support local businesses or celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

Upcoming events include:

Mercado Latino Pop-Up shop from Sept. 19-30
Taco Tour on Lake Street on Sept. 24
Cine Latino, the upper Midwest’s largest showcase of the best new films from U.S. LatinX, Latin American, and Iberian cinema, from Oct. 13-20

Thanks to Armatage neighbor, Sheila Dingels, for this fabulous write-up!

New Washburn Tot Lot Pollinator Garden

ICYMI, the ANA is excited to announce that we received grant funding from the State of Minnesota’s Lawns to Legumes Neighborhood Demonstration Program and the Minneapolis People for Parks Fund to create a pollinator garden at the Washburn Tot Lot! The new garden will be installed along the alley to provide a safe, beautiful barrier that will benefit our community and local pollinators.

Thanks to all who gave feedback on the garden at Fall Fun at the Washburn Tot Lot. We anticipate the new garden will be completed in May 2023 with our partner, Metro Blooms.

August 2, 2022 eNews

Armatage Summer Jam This Saturday!

Don’t miss the best neighborhood event of the summer this Sat, Aug 6 from 4–6pm! Bring your appetite, friends and family, and a picnic blanket or lawn chair and come to Armatage Park for a great night of community including:

Live music from local band, Loved by Millions! Huge thanks to The Dental Specialists Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry for sponsoring!
Magic by Bruce, who is back and with balloons and a show around 5:00pm! Sponsored by Sandy Cleland of RE/MAX Results!
Free face painting sponsored by Kim Herring of Edina Realty!
Five delicious food trucks:

In case of heavy rain or storms, food trucks will be outside and music and activities will move inside the community center!

Happy National Night Out

The ANA wishes an awesome National Night Out to every block hosting a party tonight! We hope you have a fabulous evening of building stronger ties with neighbors, good food, and celebrating this neighborhood and all the wonderful people in it.

Not sure what National Night Out is? Here’s a bit more from the City’s website.

July 19, 2022 Meeting Recap

Sorry for the very late recap this month! The ANA was excited to have both Council Vice President Palmisano and new Armatage Park Director Dillon Clements at its July meeting. Outgoing Park Director, Jordan Nelson, is now serving as the SW Area Supervisor. The ANA Board approved $100 for refreshments at the Fall Fun at the Washburn Tot Lot event and elected Kim Herring to the Board. Congratulations to Kim! If interested in joining the board, please email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org.

New Washburn Tot Lot Pollinator Garden

The ANA is so excited to announce that we have received grant funding from the State of Minnesota’s Lawns to Legumes Neighborhood Demonstration Program and the Minneapolis People for Parks Fund to create a pollinator garden at the Washburn Tot Lot! The new garden will be installed along the alley to provide a safe, beautiful barrier that will benefit our community and local pollinators.

Community engagement will begin this fall with a Fall Fun event at the Washburn Tot Lot on Saturday, September 17 from 10–11:30am so save the date! We anticipate the new garden will be completed in May 2023 with our partner, Metro Blooms.

Police Contract Listening Sessions

Join a community listening session to give input on the new three-year contract with the Police Federation of Minneapolis. The City staff will explain the negotiation process and hold work groups where people can collaborate on ideas related to the contract. This process will help inform the City in its negotiations with the Police Federation. Members of the public are welcome to attend the upcoming community listening sessions:

6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3. Whittier Park Recreation Center, 425 W. 26th St. See the Facebook event.
6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 15. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park Recreation Center, 4055 Nicollet Ave. S. See the Facebook event.
6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 22. Folwell Recreation Center, 1615 Dowling Ave. N. See the Facebook event.

Donation Drive to Benefit Unhoused Neighbors

Members of SWAE (Southwest Alliance for Equity) are organizing a donation drive on Sat, Aug 6 from 3–5pm near the west parking lot at Bde Maka Ska (look for the volleyball courts).

Recently a large encampment was removed recently in South Minneapolis and unfortunately people were not allowed to take any of their belongings with them. Items needed include tents, yoga or sleeping mats, air mattresses, blankets, coolers, batteries, baby wipes, underwear and socks in all sizes.

Aug 13 Fix-it Clinic at Mount Olivet

Get free help with your broken stuff and learn valuable repair skills at the Aug 13 Fix-It Clinic from 12–4pm at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church (5025 Knox Ave S). Get free, guided assistance from volunteers with repair skills to disassemble, troubleshoot and (hopefully) fix small household appliances, clothing, electronics, mobile devices and more and keep them out of the waste stream.

Clinics are held monthly and no pre-registration is required. Items must be carry-in-sized. Bring any parts and supplies that might be helpful. The events are family friendly. Learn more and see the full schedule of 2022 Fix-It Clinics at hennepin.us/fixitclinic.

E-Waste Recycling & Paper Shredding Event

Save the date for a fall e-waste and paper shredding recycling event on Sat, Sept 17 from 9am–12pm! Bring documents, TVs, computers, phones, peripherals (cords, computer parts, keyboards, etc.) and small appliances for safe recycling AND data destruction. Thanks to Mayflower Church for hosting the event.

The suggested donation is $5 (or $5 + $5 to sponsor a neighbor), but no one will be turned away. Cash and cards will be accepted on-site. We’re offering a pick-up service for seniors and residents with disabilities (items must be outside). Call us at 612-466-0296 to sign up. Learn more at armatage.org/ewaste

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign to support your neighborhood organization and proudly spread the message that ALL are welcome in Armatage!

Signs + stakes are $20 each and your tax-deductible donation goes to supporting the ANA’s work in the community. Order online here or grab a sign at Armatage Summer Jam!

Water Boulevard Trees

Water is especially important for trees under five years old, including newly planted trees on city boulevards (that is, the land between the sidewalk and the street). Water in the evening to minimize evaporation, track your tree watering by doing it on weekly solid waste collection day. Watering one tree weekly costs only about $3 for 23 weeks – the entire summer-fall season.

How to help: Watch this video or check out the three options below:

Option 1: Fill a tree watering bag. If you live near a newly planted tree supplied with a green tree watering bag, fill the bag once a week. When it’s one-quarter full, pull up on the bag handles to straighten it. Bags hold 20 gallons of water and take about five minutes to fill.
Option 2: Use a five-gallon bucket to slowly pour water around the base of a tree. Do this four times for 20 gallons once a week.
Option 3: Run a garden hose on a slow trickle, placed at least six inches from the tree trunk. Let it run for an hour each week.

Field + Festival Summer Market

Looking for something fun to do? Wagners Garden Center and Mpls Craft Market’s popular winter markets are now Field + Festival! Find them outside at Wagner’s each Tuesday this summer from 4-7pm and indoors this fall. More vendors will be added throughout the season! Learn more at www.mplscraftmarket.com

Fulton Farmers Market

The Fulton Farmers Market takes place weekly on Saturdays from 8:30 am to 1 pm in the Lake Harriet United Methodist Church parking lot! Stop by for breakfast, activities for kids, and live music starting at 10 am. You’ll find a huge variety of fresh and local fruit and veg, as well as meat, eggs, mushrooms, baked goods, preserves, crafts, and more!

Take the Minneapolis Climate Action and Equity Plan Survey

Minneapolis is working to reduce the impact of climate change. With a 10-year update to the 2013 Climate Action Plan, the City needs your help to meet its ambitious goals: eliminating carbon emissions and improving the daily lives of residents, particularly those most impacted by changes in our climate.

Fill out the Climate Action Plan survey here or contact sustainability@minneapolismn.gov.

Join the August Stop Food Waste Challenge

We love food, which leaves us wondering: why do we let so much of it go to waste? About 40% of food is wasted somewhere along the supply chain, and you may be surprised to learn that much of that food waste happens at home. Here in Hennepin County, we throw away enough edible food each year to fill Target Field 1.5 times!

Join Hennepin County’s online Stop Food Waste Challenge to learn easy, practical skills that will help you stop wasting food, put more money in your pocket, and create a healthier environment. Even better, taking steps to reduce food waste is one of the most important actions we can take to address climate change.

The challenge runs through August 31. Join now at hennepinfoodwaste.ecochallenge.org.

Home Help MN – Apply by August 17

If you’ve fallen behind on your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, association fees or lot rent because of COVID, you can now to apply for the State’s Home Help MN program. Visit https://homehelpmn.org to learn more and get your application started.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing

Vaccines: find vaccines for kids ages 6 months and up and boosters at mn.gov/vaccine (click on the Vaccine Locator Map). Learn more about boosters here.

Free Rapid Tests: order free rapid tests at https://www.covid.gov/tests or at https://mn.gov/covid19/ Ordering takes just a couple minutes.

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June 23, 2022 eNews

June 21 Meeting Recap

The ANA met outdoors at Armatage Park this week to re-elect Vice President Sharla McIntosh-Ziegler, Treasurer Judy Vecere, and Secretary Nikki Lindberg and approve a new meeting code of conduct. The Board planned its summer newsletter, discussed recruiting more neighbors to join the board (there are a few open seats!), debriefed on spring and early summer events and programs, and approved funds for upcoming events including a replacement pop-up tent.

We have a few open neighborhood board seats so if you’re interested in learning more or are a “do-er” and want to dive right in, please email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

Sponsor Armatage Summer Jam

Showcase your company’s name to thousands of neighbors and community members at Armatage Summer Jam! The event will include six food trucks, a live band and other family friendly activities and games. To make this event a success, we are looking for local businesses to sponsor and are offering a wide range of options to support at various investment levels.

By sponsoring the event, you’ll have the opportunity to reach the Armatage Community through event advertising including our local newsletter (reaches nearly 5,000 residents), website and social media. Additionally, there will be acknowledgement of sponsors at the event on August 6. To learn more about the sponsorship opportunities available, please click here.

Apply for Pollinator or Rain Garden

We are now accepting applications for this year’s Pollinator & Rain Garden Program, which has received funding from the State of Minnesota’s Lawns to Legumes Neighborhood Demonstration Program!

All are welcome to apply. Slots are competitive and the subsidy and support will vary. Most participants can expect to pay $300 – $400 for their garden (about a $2000 value!). This year we are also able to offer several scholarship gardens; qualifying residents will pay a $50 consultation fee with NO other costs. Learn more and apply at armatage.org/programs/rain-gardens/

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign to support your neighborhood organization and proudly spread the message that ALL are welcome in Armatage!

Signs + stakes are $20 each and your tax-deductible donation goes to supporting the ANA’s work in the community. Order online here.

Yard Waste Collection Moving to Every Other Week

As of this week, yard waste pickup will change from weekly to every other week for Armatage to adjust for a Solid Waste & Recycling staff shortage. Going forward, please plan to….

Leave properly prepared yard waste at their curb or alley line until it’s collected if they can.
Call the Solid Waste & Recycling office at 612-673-2917 if their yard waste has not been picked up for more than two weeks.

For more details and a map of the changes, visit www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/yard-waste/yard-waste-collection-map/

Happy Pride Month!

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month—a time to recognize and celebrate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer + communities, honor the history of Pride, and commit to working together to ensure continued progress.

The origins of Pride Month are deeply rooted in community and political activism. The historic Stonewall uprising that took place the morning of June 28, 1969 served as a galvanizing event. The Stonewall Uprising was a series of clashes between police and LGBTQ+ protesters that stretched over six days. It was not the first time police raided a gay bar, and it was not the first time LGBTQ+ people fought back, but the events that would unfold over the next six days would fundamentally change the nature of LGBTQ+ activism in the United States.

One year later, to commemorate the riots, thousands of marchers took to the New York City streets in the nation’s first gay pride march. In 1978, what is perhaps the most recognized symbol of Gay Pride, the rainbow flag, made its debut at the San Francisco event. Thanks to decades of tireless advocacy, LGBTQ+ people now hold visible leadership roles in local, state, and federal government; can openly serve in the U.S. Military; and legally marry in all 50 states. This includes our current Minneapolis City Council President, Andrea Jenkins.

Celebrate Pride Month in Minneapolis with several events include Family Fun Day, the annual Pride Celebration & Parade and more listed at https://tcpride.org/events/category/tcpride-2022-events/ Huge thanks to Sheila Dingels for this article!

Check Lake Water Quality

We’re sharing this handy website to check our Minneapolis lake water quality. With the recent blue green algal blooms that are toxic to people and pets in Lake Harriet and Lake Hiawatha, keep this site bookmarked and check for water advisories before heading to the lake: MPRB Lake Water Quality Map.

Free Puppet Show This Sunday

We’re sharing this fun puppet show co-hosted by local business Kid A at Lake Monster Brewing this Sunday, June 26 from 12:00–2:00pm. Admission is free. Tables are first come first serve, so feel free to bring a blanket and/or chairs to watch the show.

The story – Tucker is a young boy who needs to go back in time to face a group of neighborhood bullies. How do you go back in time? With a time-traveling robot, of course! Together, Tucker and his robot discover the importance of friendship and the courage to face bullies. Full of surprises, a little danger and some really funny characters. Contains puppetry, live music, and fun for families and children of all ages. Learn more here.

Tangletown 4th of July

Our friends in the Tangletown Neighborhood are hosting their annual 4th of July event and you’re invite! Join in the free fun with a short kids parade, live music from Roe Family Singers, food trucks, kids’ activities, and a free festival at Fuller Park on July 4th.

Event Webpage: https://tangletown.org/4th/

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/442516103961631

Minneapolis Music & Movies in the Park

Enjoy free movies, music, performances, art and games outdoors this summer with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, Hennepin County, and the Peavey Plaza Performing Arts Series.

Minneapolis Parks: find the map and calendar for Minneapolis Music and Movies on the Park Board website. There will be a movie or concert happening somewhere in the Minneapolis park system every single day through Labor Day.
Downtown: Enjoy yard games, art, and special activities at Hennepin County Government Center South Plaza or join in trivia nights and outdoor movie nights at Target Field. Learn more at mplsdowntown.com/gooutside.
Peavey Plaza: Green Minneapolis is hosting a series of free music, dance and theater performances at performing arts presentations at Peavey Plaza every week from June thru September. Find the calendar of events on the Green Minneapolis website.

Home Help MN

If you’ve fallen behind on your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, association fees or lot rent because of COVID, you can now apply for the State’s Home Help MN program. Visit https://homehelpmn.org to learn more and tap the “Apply Now” button.

July 1 Minimum Wage Increase

On July 1, 2022, the minimum wage in Minneapolis is going up to $13.50 at small businesses (100 or fewer employees) and $15 at large businesses (more than 100 employees). Increases in Minneapolis’ minimum wage directly benefit tens of thousands of families and the economy. For more information about the ordinance, visit the City’s website.

The City’s Department of Civil Rights oversees enforcement of the municipal minimum wage and wage theft prevention ordinances, and workers are encouraged to report violations online. Tips and gratuities do not count toward payment of a minimum wage.

Hennepin County Deconstruction Grants Available

Hennepin County is offering deconstruction grants again this year AND they’ve expanded the program. Learn more and apply at https://www.hennepin.us/building-reuse for one of the following:

Residential Grants: funding up to $5,000 per project for residential properties built prior to 1970 to deconstruct building materials for reuse.
Commercial Grants: funding up to $10,000 per project for commercial properties, including multi-family apartment buildings over 4 units, to deconstruct building materials for reuse.
Structural Move Grants: funding up to $15,000 to physically relocate a building to another location, avoiding demolition waste and preserving the cultural and historical integrity of the building
Used Building Materials Grants: a new grant to “close the loop” by funding remodel, renovation, and new construction projects up to $5,000 per project that incorporate used building materials into project designs.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing

Vaccines: if you haven’t been vaccinated or gotten a booster yet, get a free vaccine as soon as you can. Visit mn.gov/vaccine to use the Vaccine Locator Map (more options listed below). Learn more about boosters here.

Free Rapid Tests: you can now order a 3rd round of free tests at https://www.covid.gov/tests And free rapid tests are also available at https://mn.gov/covid19/ Ordering takes just a couple minutes.

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May 19, 2022 eNews

Voting is Open for the Armatage Board Election

Online voting is open now through Wednesday, May 25 at 9:00pm! Learn about the fabulous candidates running and cast your vote at https://armatage.org/2022boardelection/. Even in an uncontested election, it’s important to weigh in so THANK YOU for voting!

If you need assistance with voting or don’t have computer access at home, please call us at 612-466-0296 – we’re happy to help. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated business and institutional representatives are eligible to vote in the election.

Garden Evolution Workshop

Sat, June 11 | 10:00–11:30am
Armatage Community Center

Don’t miss this fantastic free gardening workshop taught by Hennepin County Master Gardener Theresa Rooney! Theresa will cover how to adapt your garden as you experience changes in your time, resources, physical abilities or priorities and help you see what options are possible as your garden life changes.

For all levels and free and open to the public. All attendees will be entered to win a native garden kit! Learn more at https://armatage.org/garden-evolution/

Movie in the Park: Back to the Future

Join the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board and the Armatage Neighborhood Association for Back to the Future at Armatage Park on Friday, June 3, 2022!

Movies start at dusk (~9:30pm) so aim to be at the park early to grab a good seat and stop by the ANA table to say hi! Don’t forget your chair or blanket and bug spray. See the full list of Minneapolis Music & Movies at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/music__movies/

Community Connections Conference Saturday

Register now for an exciting day of learning, connecting and community conversation. The City’s free Community Connections Conference happens this Saturday, May 21 from 9:00am – 3:00pm and connects residents of Minneapolis, community groups, neighborhoods and local government. This year’s conference theme is “forward together,” welcoming all communities to reconnect with the City and get involved in moving Minneapolis forward. There’s still time to register on the City website.

Ride the bus or METRO light rail free to the Community Connections Conference May 21 courtesy of Metro Transit. Download your pass from Metro Transit.

Home Help MN

Pet Fest Thanks!

HUGE thanks to everyone who attended our first-ever Pet Fest! Thank to our participating vendors: Andre’s Custom Apparel, People and Pets Together food shelf, Pet-Taxicab, Chiropractor Dr. Andrea Spearl, No Dog Left Behind rescue, Jacob Tapia Photography, Twin Cities Caricatures, True Loyalty dog training. We’re also thrilled to announce that both adoptable dogs with No Dog Left Behind have pending adoption applications!

Thanks also to our wonderful volunteer team! We are also grateful to the following businesses for their generous prize donations: Zeroish , Sparrow Cafe , Woof Central. Photo credit to Armatage neighbor, Jacob Tapia.

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI Heritage Month) is an annual celebration in May that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of those of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. As of 2019, there were about 22.9 million people of Asian or Pacific Islander descent in the United States.

The effort to officially recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander contributions began in the late 1970s, and took over 10 years to make it a permanent month-long celebration. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed significantly to many facets of American culture and society, including science and medicine, literature and art, sports and recreation, government and politics, and activism and law.

If you’d like to explore more about AAPI Heritage Month:

Visit Minneapolis Institute of Arts for several exhibitions on the creative cultural contributions made by Asian American and Pacific Islander artists.
PBS has a rich collection of documentaries and programs you can view.
If you’ve got kids, here are some fun and easy crafts to do together: 5 Easy Crafts to Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month
Enjoy a meal out at one of Minneapolis’ great Thai, Filipino, Cambodian or other Asian restaurants. A simple google search will pull up dozens of options!

New Electric Carshare Program

The City of Minneapolis, City of Saint Paul, Xcel Energy and HOURCAR just launched Evie Carshare, the first 100% renewably powered municipally owned carshare in the country to provide residents with cleaner and more affordable transportation options.

Evie Carshare will have over 150 all-electric vehicles for one-way trips by the minute, hour, or day around Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Sharing the same system with HOURCAR, members will have access to both one-way Evie Carshare and hub-based HOURCAR services. Learn more about the EV Spot Network here.

Rain Garden Program Info Coming Soon

The Green Team is happy to announce that this year’s Rain Garden Program received additional funding via the State of Minnesota’s competitive Lawns to Legumes Neighborhood Demonstration grant program! This matching grant allows us to help pollinators throughout our neighborhood while sharpening our focus on accessibility and equity with priority given to seniors, renters, and low-income neighbors.

All are welcome to apply and the subsidy and support level will vary. More information will be shared here and at armatage.org later this month (apologies for the delay, neighbors!). You can also email us at a nacoordinator@armatage.org to be added to our email notification list. Meanwhile, get inspired and check out our mini gallery of established Armatage rain gardens like this one on Logan Ave at https://armatage.org/programs/rain-gardens/

Fulton & Kingfield Farmers Markets Open This Weekend

May in Minnesota means that farmers’ market season has finally arrived! Fulton Farmers Market launches for the season on Saturday, May 21 and Kingfield Farmers Market on Sunday, May 22. Swing by to see many of your favorite vendors and meet some amazing new vendors!

City Recommends Wearing Masks Indoors

We’re unfortunately experiencing another uptick in COVID spread and hospitalizations and the Minneapolis Health Department strongly recommends everyone – vaccinated or not – wear masks in indoor public settings like stores, restaurants, theaters, family entertainment centers, schools, meetings, and local government offices serving the public.

Since mid-March, the seven-day new case rate in Minneapolis has increased by 340% from 51 COVID infections per 100,000 people to 227 per 100,000. That puts us in the high community transmission category. We’ve also seen a more than two-fold increase in our seven-day hospitalization rate since mid-March from 1.9 hospitalizations per 100,000 people to 4.8 hospitalizations, which is above the caution threshold. Learn more about the city’s COVID-19 response at www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/coronavirus

COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing

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April 22, 2022 eNews

Graphic with yellow background, torn white paper that says "Cyber Seniors & Armtage Neighborhood Association Tech Help for Seniors on Sat, April 23 from 1-3pm at the Armatage Community Center"

Tomorrow: Tech Help for Seniors

Sat, April 23 | 1:00 – 3:00pm
Armatage Community Center

Come to the Armatage Community Center for free tech help tomorrow (Saturday, April 23) from 1:00-3:00pm! We’re partnering with Cyber Seniors, a nonprofit that provides free tech help, youth training, and connects generations!

Bring your phone, tablet, computer, or other device AND your questions on troubleshooting issues, apps, content, and more to get help from friendly, trained Minneapolis teens who will walk you through step by step. Please wear a mask to keep the event safe for all. There is no need to register – just stop by! Learn more at armatage.org/techhelp/

Spring Earth Day Clean-up: TOMORROW

Sat, April 23 | 9:30am – 12:00pm
Armatage Park

Join the Armatage Green Team and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board for the annual Earth Day Clean-up at Armatage Park tomorrow (Saturday, April 23) from 9:30am – 12:00pm! This is a great, meaningful opportunity for kids, teens and adults to show our neighborhood pride and clean up neighborhood streets, sidewalks, and parks to keep trash and recycling from polluting our waterways. Every single person who volunteers makes a huge impact! Learn more at armatage.org/events/clean-ups

April 19, 2022 Meeting Recap

Council Vice President Linea Palmisano joined this week’s Monthly Meeting and shared a recap of the Ward 13 Public Safety Forum in March, answered questions about Open Streets events, and discussed the redevelopment project at 50th & Beard. The ANA Board voted to add a “Community from the Community” item to the beginning of monthly meetings where community members can share concerns or ideas for 2-3 minutes each.

The ANA Board also discussed next month’s Annual Meeting & Board Election (see below for more info!), chose a date for a fall renter-focused event at the Washburn Tot Lot, and approved up to $250 in funds to co-sponsor a fall Tech Dump event with other south and southwest neighborhoods.

Support the 2022 Armatage Art Show

On May 19, 2022, the Armatage Elementary School art teacher and parent volunteers will be holding their first Art Show “Gallery A” since 2019! This beloved community event features artwork from kindergartners through 5th graders on display, a community art project, a scavenger hunt, refreshments and more to support the Armatage Elementary School’s Art Program.

Along with the amazing art display, there is also a silent auction to exhibit donated art and crafts made by parents and community members as well as items donated by local businesses. Proceeds will fund art supplies for next school year as well as cover the costs of the event.

Please consider supporting your local public school by making a donation to the 2022 silent auction. Your donation will be recognized onsite the night of the event. To donate, please complete the donation form here, which also includes options for submitting your donation. Thank you for supporting our hard-working neighborhood elementary students and the arts at your local public school!

Image shows a Minneapolis street sweeping truck on a city street.

Spring Street Sweeping

It doesn’t quite feel like spring, but street sweeping is here! This spring, the City of Minneapolis will sweep more than 1,000 miles of streets. Check when your block is scheduled for street sweeping and look out for no parking signs to avoid a ticket or tow!

Learn more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

Save the Date: Armatage Pet Fest

Sat, May 14 | 2:00 – 4:00pm
Armatage Park

Bring your furry, feathered or scaled friends to Armatage Park for our first-ever Pet Fest on Saturday, May 14 from 2:00-4:00pm! Promenade in the pet parade. Enter the pet contest to win fabulous prizes donated by Zeroish, Woof Central and more! Visit a pet chiropractor, get a caricature of you and your pet, grab human treats from Sparrow Cafe, meet adorable rescue puppies, see an obedience demo, connect with other Armatage animal lovers and more!

All are welcome, whether you have a pet to bring or not. Hosted by the Armatage Community Engagement Committee. Learn more and register for the contest or parade at armatage.org/petfest

Save the Date: Garden Tool Swap

Sat, May 14 | 9:00am – 12:00pm
Armatage Park

The ANA Green Team is excited to host one of the citywide Garden Tool Swap sites this year at Armatage Park! With the weather warming (thinking positive here), many of us are turning towards our homes and our green spaces. When cleaning out your storage, hang on to unused yard tools, planting equipment and gardening items and bring them to the citywide Garden Tool Swap. From first time gardeners to those with green thumbs, all are welcome at this free event.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 14, 2022 9:00am – 12:00pm and bring your unused items to Armatage Park. You do not need to bring items to the event to take items home with you. Learn more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/garden-tool-swap

Annual Meeting & Board Election

Annual Meeting: Growing Together: Connect with your elected representatives and grow individually and as a community with relaxation and stress management techniques from Julie Gramentz, owner of Unwind Within on 54th Street. Hear what your neighborhood is up to and how you can get involved. The fun happens outdoors at Armatage Park on Tues, May 17 at 6:30pm.

Board Election: Step up as a leader in your community and run for the ANA Board! Meetings are held the third Tues of each month and the time commitment is 5-6 hours/month. Members of under-represented communities are especially encouraged to run, including renters, people with disabilities, and residents who identify as LGBTQ or BIPOC. Important Dates:

Register to run by Tues, May 17 at 9:00pm at https://armatage.org/2022boardelection/
Online voting will be open from Wed, May 18 at 9:00am through Wed, May 25 at 9:00pm.

Image shows a bee on a native plant with black-eyed susan in the background

Protect Pollinators & Wait to Rake

Bees often nest in broken stems of plants, and butterflies overwinter in leaf piles. Please wait to cut back perennials, rake leaves, and clean up yard waste in your yard until daytime temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees (late April or early May) to protect pollinators.

Share Your Ideas for a Zero Waste Future

Participate in developing the Hennepin County Zero Waste Plan by telling the county about your experiences in recycling, composting and ideas to reduce waste on the new engagement site. Residents who register on the website can engage with other community members, post ideas, and stay informed as the plan progresses.

Hennepin County’s zero-waste vision is a system where all materials are designed to become resources for others to use. Our definition of zero waste is preventing 90% or more of all discarded materials from being landfilled or incinerated. Click here to weigh in.

TRUST, Inc. is Hiring

Local non-profit TRUST, Inc. offers home and chore services to people 55+ and those with disabilities in Minneapolis and the south metro area. TRUST is currently hiring workers to help with yard/garden, housekeeping, repair work, spring cleaning and organizing. This is a great option for teens 16+, college age youth looking for summer work, and adults looking for PT options working with area seniors. Call 612-827-6159 to learn more and apply.

Work with Minneapolis Parks

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board is hiring for a wide range of summer jobs! Whether you want to gain experience at your first job, or grow your skill set for a future career, there are a lot of great positions open.

Information and applications are online at www.minneapolisparks.org/jobs

Image of several intricate Ramadan lanterns lit and glowing in the dark.

Learn About and Celebrate Ramadan

Ramadan Mubarak to all our neighbors who are celebrating this month. As one of the most important months in the Muslim calendar, Ramadan is a sacred month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. It is a time when followers of Islam celebrate the “Night of Power” when Muhammad received the initial revelations of the Quran, the sacred book of Islam. This year Ramadan is celebrated from April 2 until May 1. During Ramadan, Muslims fast every day from dusk to dawn. The fast is supposed to cleanse the soul and make the believers empathize with those in the world who are hungry and less fortunate.

Amidst the time of Ramadan, most Muslims go to the Masjid (Mosque) and spend several hours praying and studying the Quran. Every day they recite a special prayer called the Taraweeh Prayer (Night Prayer), which is usually twice or three times as long as the daily prayers. Minneapolis City Council Member Jamal Osman announced this week that mosques will be allowed to play the adhan, or call to prayer several times between the hours of 7:00am and 10:00pm daily and all year round. The City Council unanimously supported the broadcasts and the recognition of Ramadan. Thanks to Safety, Equity & Outreach Member, Sheila Dingels, for this write-up!

Here are some ways to celebrate Ramadan in Minneapolis:

Try a halal meal from Hamdi Restaurant in the Phillips neighborhood.
Make these fun paper lanterns. How to make paper lanterns Ramadan Decoration, Ramadan Decoration Idea/s 2019, Ramadan Decoration DIY – Bing video It is believed this tradition was started in Egypt more than a thousand years ago when lanterns were used by people to light their homes and the streets at night. One evening in 969 AD, on the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan, the Caliph Al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah came to Egypt. The military commander commanded the people of Egypt to light the Caliph’s path with lanterns so he could see where he was going as he walked through the streets.
Listen to the podcast Tell Them, I Am. While not about Ramadan specifically, but over the course of the series, host and producer Misha Euceph interviewed 22 people, all Muslims, about the defining moments of their lives. Megaphone: A Modern Podcasting Platform

COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing

Free Rapid Tests: you can now order four totally free COVID-19 rapid tests per residential household at https://mn.gov/covid19/ Ordering takes just a couple minutes.

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March 17, 2022 eNews

March 15, 2022 Meeting Recap

At this week’s Armatage Monthly Meeting, the ANA heard an update on Mpls Park & Rec hours during the strike (youth can drop in and run off energy weekdays from 3:00-9:00pm) and discussed a return to in person meetings in May including how to share meeting materials so community members can join discussions. Board members approved the Green Team’s People for Parks grant application to fund a pollinator garden at the Washburn Tot Lot and approved funds for snacks for the youth helping out at the Tech Help for Seniors event on April 23.

The ANA also edited and approved the Annual Report to the City of Minneapolis for FY2020 and 2021, planned the speaker line-up for the Annual Meeting in May (which will feature elected representatives and Julie Gramentz, owner of Unwind Within), and discussed plans to shift Safety, Equity & Outreach’s meetings to feature more relevant speakers and conversation and share resources.

Soil Health & Regenerative Agriculture Series

Join Armatage Neighborhood’s Green Team in a series on soil health and how we all can have an impact by working with, rather than against, nature to help fight climate change! The series includes a free virtual screening of Kiss the Ground and a Regenerative Agriculture Panel on March 24 at 7:00pm on Zoom. Learn more and register at https://armatage.org/soilhealth/

Kiss the Ground Community Screening (now through March 24) unveils a game-changer to our climate crisis: the Earth’s own soil. The solution is called “Regenerative Agriculture,” which can revive farmer prosperity, reduce flooding & drought, replenish fresh water sources, reduce fire hazards, reverse global warming, recreate regional access to nutrient-dense food, reduce toxic pesticides & fertilizers, reduce dead zones & water pollution, reverse extinction, and reconnect humanity & nature. Kiss the Ground presents the research, practice, and hope we need to move forward. Together.
Image shows an collage of two farmers (one man and one woman), a Homegrown Minneapolis logo, and another farmer in front of his tractor.

Regenerative Agriculture Panel (March 24 at 7:00pm) will feature experts including farmers and Homegrown Minneapolis staff to share what’s happening right here in Minnesota around regenerative agriculture and local food systems. Panelists will share how they’re protecting soil health, answer our questions, and help us understand what we can do locally or with our own yards. This event is free and open to all. Register to attend at https://armatage.org/soilhealth/

Graphic with blue background and white text that reads "Palmisano Presents: A Conversation on Public Safety. Monday, March 21 6:30-8:00pm, in person at Mt. Olivet or livestream"

Ward 13 Public Safety Conversation

Join Council Vice President Linea Palmisano for a conversation about public safety in the City of Minneapolis on Monday, March 21 at 6:30pm. This hybrid event will be held at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church (5025 Knox Ave S) or can be watched via livestream. Regardless of how you plan to attend, please register at https://bit.ly/3ClSJlP

Speakers include MPD 5th Precinct Inspector Katie Blackwell, Hennepin County Director of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation Catherine Johnson, and hopefully Canopy Roots and the Behavioral Crisis Response Team.

MPS Strike Resources

As the MPS strike continues, we’re sharing this strike fund created for Armatage Elementary staff, specifically educational support professionals who keep our school running! Resources for families include the following:

Pick up a free breakfast and lunch between 9:00am and 1:00pm at their student’s school. Learn more at https://cws.mpls.k12.mn.us/mealbags
Access other food shelves through the City’s interactive map at www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/homegrown-minneapolis/food-shelves/
Looking for child care resources? Check out the district’s list at https://bit.ly/3q2I0I4

Low Cost Tree Sales are HERE!

Minneapolis property owners are able to order 5- to 8-foot trees in 30 varieties (including shade, fruit and flowering trees!) for $30 each to plant on their private property. Rental property owners and property owners who haven’t participated in the City Trees program can order a tree now. All other Minneapolis property owners can order two trees per address starting at 8:00am Wednesday, March 23.

New this year: two trees can be ordered per property! Tree are available first-come, first-served, and the sale closes on April 15 or when the trees run out, whichever is first. Tree pick-up will be May 21, 22 or 23 (subject to change). Volunteers onsite will help load each new tree and a complimentary bag of mulch into vehicles on request.

Image shows three young girls in traditional dress dancing at a previous International Festival

Celebrate Cultures of Minneapolis at the International Festival

The Minneapolis International Festival happens on Saturday, March 26 from 1:00-5:00pm at the Central Gym (3400 Fourth Ave S). Celebrate the different cultures in the City of Minneapolis and surrounding communities with music, dance, art, cultural learning booths, exhibits, demonstrations, food and more. Some of the groups featured that day include: Nyttu Chongo, Kuyayki Peru, Chinese Heritage Foundation, Oromo Cultural Institute of MN, Spirit Boy Singers, food, art, jewelry and clothing from all over the globe.

The Minneapolis International Festival is FREE and open to the public. To learn more visit www.minneapolisparks.org and click on activities and events or by calling 612-230-6400. You can also find the event on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mplsinternationalfestival.

Image shows an illustration of women of all ages and racial identities standing together looking forward with the words "Women's History Month" above

Celebrate Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month is a dedicated month to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of women to United States history. The actual celebration of Women’s History Month grew out of a weeklong celebration of women’s contributions to culture, history and society organized by the school district of Sonoma, CA in 1978. A few years later, the idea had caught on within communities, school districts and organizations across the country.

In 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. The U.S. Congress followed suit the next year, passing a resolution establishing a national celebration. Six years later, the National Women’s History Project successfully petitioned Congress to expand the event to the entire month of March. Thanks to our SEO Committee Member, Sheila Dingels, for this write-up and the following resources!

Here are some ways to celebrate Women’s History Month:

Listen to 89.3 The Current for a different featured female artist each day.
Learn about the women behind several of our neighboring schools, including Sister Kenny, Maude Armatage, and Susan B. Anthony.
Donate to a non-profit organization that supports women and girls like Girls Who Code or the Malala Fund.
Read one of innumerable books that celebrate women in history such as She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton.

Get Involved with an Armatage Neighborhood Committee

Hi Neighbors! Did you know that Armatage has three committees that plan fun and educational events to bring the neighborhood together? Last year these committees worked as teams to host free workshops, film screenings, neighborhood clean-ups, organized food truck nights and more.

We would love for you to join us on the Safety, Equity & Outreach, Green Team, and Community Engagement Committees. Check out the Get Involved page on the Armatage neighborhood website and then choose to volunteer for a single event or join a Committee e-list to help plan new events throughout the year. Come meet new friends and neighbors while making Armatage an even better place to live!

Learn more, register for a meeting or volunteer at armatage.org/get-involved/:

The Green Team meets TONIGHT (Thursday, March 10) at 7:00pm on Zoom
Safety, Equity & Outreach meets next on Tuesday, April 5 at 6:00pm on Zoom
Community Engagement meets next on Thursday, April 7 at 6:00pm on Zoom

Share E Line Bus Rapid Transit Feedback

Metro Transit’s new E Line Bus Rapid Transit will provide faster, more reliable transit in the Route 6 corridor from University Avenue/4th Street, Hennepin Avenue, and France Avenue from the University of Minnesota to Southdale.

The public comment period for the Recommended Corridor Plan is open now through April 8. Please explore the plan and provide comments on future E Line station locations at metrotransit.org/e-line-corridor-plan

New Minneapolis Warrant and Entry Policy

Mayor Jacob Frey has announced new proposed standards for the Minneapolis Police Department’s (MPD) warrant and entry policy. Read more about the proposed warrant and entry policy on the City website. The new proposed policy:

Prohibits the Minneapolis Police Department from applying for and using all no-knock search warrants.
Requires that officers continuously knock and announce their presence and purpose before entering with at least a 20 second wait time for any warrant and 30 seconds for warrants carried out during nighttime hours (8:00pm-7:00am as defined by state statute).
Creates a new risk classification and evaluation system for knock-and-announce search warrants.
Introduces new, safer tactics when police enter a home.
Enacts a more robust and thorough internal review and accountability process.

Save the Date: Tech Help for Seniors

Sat, April 23 | 1:00-3:00pm
Armatage Community Center

Come to the Armatage Community Center for free tech help on Sat, April 23 from 1:00-3:00pm!
We’re partnering with Cyber Seniors, a nonprofit that provides free tech help, youth training, and connects generations!

Bring your phone, tablet, computer, or other device AND your questions on troubleshooting issues, apps, content, and more to get help from friendly, trained Minneapolis teens who will walk you through step by step. Masks are required at all times per the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board policy. Learn more at armatage.org/techhelp/

Graphic shows keys for car and a house separate with the text "Safety Tip: Keep car and house keys separate."

Personal Safety & Carjacking Prevention Tips

Our Safety Equity & Outreach Committee put together these helpful safety tips and graphics with a few simple actions you can take to stay mindful AND safe, especially as the weather warms and we are out and about more often. See the full list at armatage.org/safety-tips/ Follow the ANA on Facebook or Instagram for posts to share with family, friends and neighbors.

After Action Review from Civil Unrest Released

Hillard Heintze, a security risk management firm, presented key findings and recommendations of an after action review (AAR) of the City’s response to civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd to the City Council’s Committee of the Whole on March 8. Learn more about the after action review and read the full analysis here.

The analysis focuses on the City’s actions immediately following Floyd’s murder from May 25, 2020 to June 3, 2020 and recommendations to rebuild trust in the community. Watch the March 8 Committee of the Whole presentation here (start around minute 21).

Screenshot of map showing properties in the Kenny Neighborhood that had racial housing covenants in the Armatage, Kenny and Windom neighborhoods..

Remove Racial Covenants Through the Just Deeds Project

Applications are open for the Minneapolis Just Deeds Project, which provides property owners with the opportunity to discharge racial covenants recorded against their properties and reclaim their homes as equitable spaces. Racial covenants were legal documents recorded against a property’s title that prohibited all future owners of the property from selling it, renting it or allowing it to be used by people of certain races or ethnicities. Thanks to the work of Mapping Prejudice, we know that more than 8,000 properties in Minneapolis contain racial covenants including many here in Armatage (see above).

The City’s Just Deeds Project and Hennepin County will help homeowners record a discharge form against their property title, free of charge. Participation is first come, first served and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more, check whether your home has a racial covenant, and apply for the project on the city’s website here. If you have questions, contact JustDeedsProject@minneapolismn.gov.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing

Testing: you can now order four totally free COVID-19 rapid tests per residential household through https://www.covidtests.gov/ Ordering takes just a couple minutes. For more local testing options including home saliva PCR tests, visit https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/testsites/index.html

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January 20, 2022 eNews

January 18, 2022 Meeting Recap

Thanks for a great first meeting of 2022! Council Vice President Linea Palmisano shared updates on plowing, COVID-19 restrictions, and plans for an upcoming forum on public safety. Armatage Park director Jordan Nelson gave an update on activity enrollment, the Fire & Ice skating party next Friday, and summer movies. The ANA Board also elected Sharla McIntosh-Ziegler as Vice President (congrats, Sharla!!!!!), discussed armatage.org website layout changes, started planning this year’s Annual Meeting, and gave the green light (pun intended) to the Armatage Green Team to apply for a Lawns to Legumes grant.

Open Board Seat: the ANA continues to have an open seat on the Board of Directors. If you are interested in joining or learning more about the time commitment and duties of neighborhood board members, please email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

Image of Armatage Park at night with lights on and snow on the ground. White text over the image says "Armatage Fire & Ice, Friday January 28th from 6:00-7:30pm. Skating, cocoa and popcorn. Hosted by Armatage Park and the Armatage Neighborhood Association"

Armatage Fire & Ice is BACK!

Friday, January 28
6:00-7:30pm

Join Armatage Park’s annual Fire & Ice Family Skating party on Friday, January 28 from 6:00-7:30pm! Bundle up and enjoy a night with your family and friends skating or keep warm with hot cocoa by the bonfires. COVID-19 safety: as much of the event as possible will be held outdoors. Bring a mask if you need to step into the warming room. Learn more at https://armatage.org/2022-fire-ice-skating-party/

Winter gear donations needed: the ANA would like to gather donations that will help keep our residents, guests and unsheltered neighbors warm. Please bring any new or gently used items to donate and/or feel free to take what you need. We are looking to collect items such as wool socks, hats, mittens, winter jackets, boots and long underwear.

Lake Harriet Kite Festival

The Kite Festival returns to frozen Lake Harriet this Saturday, January 22, 12:00-4:00 pm! Check out this beautiful event that fills the sky with colorful kites and offers winter activities for all including kite flying (BYO or or enjoy the kites from Minnesota Kite Society), dog sledding, ice fishing, delicious local food trucks and free s’mores by the fire. This year, there will be no heated tents and Art Shanty Projects will be offering an exterior-only experience. All event attendees are encouraged to wear masks.

There will be no parking in the Lake Harriet Parking lot and on either side of Linden Hills Boulevard from W 43rd Street to W 40th Street on event day. A shuttle from the Calhoun Executive Center (3033 Excelsior Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55416) will run continuously from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm. Masks will be required for all shuttle passengers.

Image shows a proposed Minneapolis ward map

Participate in the Redistricting Process

After every census, Minneapolis updates the boundaries of its 13 wards and six park districts to reflect new population counts. The Redistricting Group, made up of 24 Minneapolis volunteers, builds the new maps with input from their communities. The Redistricting Group needs your help with the redistricting project to make sure all voices are heard. See below for the remaining redistricting process meetings, which you can watch on the City’s website, the City’s YouTube channel, or on Comcast channels 14 or 799.

Redistricting Group mapping meeting: Wednesday, Jan 26 at 4:00pm

Public hearings on proposed maps (register online here to speak): Wednesday, Feb 9 at 7:00pm and Thursday, Feb 24 at 4:00pm

Next steps: the Minneapolis Charter Commission is expected to approve proposed ward and park district maps at 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 2. The City Council will vote on proposed voting precincts and polling places based on the new maps at its regular meeting at 9:30am on Thursday, Mar 10.

Armatage Elementary Enrollment & Open House

School enrollment season is here! Anyone who lives in the neighborhood who has a child in grades K-5 during the 2022-2023 school year who is not already enrolled at Armatage Elementary can request Armatage as their first choice on the online school choice form at https://enrollnow.exploremps.org/onlinerequest This includes all incoming kindergartners.

Open House on Tuesday, January 25 from 5:00-6:00pm: learn about Armatage Elementary at the Open House. This is a great opportunity for prospective families to tour the building, meet Principal Steve Searl and some of the teaching staff, and hear all about the school! Per MPS policy, please wear a mask.

Kanga News: Sign up for Armatage Elementary’s e-news, Kanga News! Current families and community members are welcome to sign up for Kanga News at https://armatage.mpls.k12.mn.us/Communications

Take the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Survey by Jan 31

Minneapolis Public Works wants your input on a proposed process to address traffic safety concerns and traffic calming requests on neighborhood streets. The process provides a way for community members to request traffic calming and for Public Works to review those requests fairly, transparently and equitably. We know traffic calming has been a priority for neighbors for a long time and we hope you’ll weigh in!

Find more information about the proposed traffic calming process and share your feedback by Jan 31 here. After reviewing feedback, Public Works will finalize the process this year and share details in the spring about how to request traffic calming measures.

Graphic with a blue background that says "#maskupmpls at all indoor public spaces" and lists daycare, gas station, government building, grocery store, office building and library.

Mask & Restaurant Testing/Vaccination Requirements

Starting yesterday, everyone age 5 and older entering an establishment that serves food or drink in Minneapolis must show proof of either being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or having a negative PCR or antigen test taken within three days. There are a few exceptions including K-12 and early childcare settings. Get all your questions answered at https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/coronavirus/businesses-employees/testing-vaccine-policy/

Mask Mandate: Because of the surging, highly contagious omicron variant, all patrons, employees and visitors over the age of 2 must wear a mask in Minneapolis businesses and areas of public accommodation. This includes restaurants, bars, libraries, retail stores, schools, recreation centers, rental establishments, theaters and more. Learn more at https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/coronavirus/masking-guidance/

Up Your Mask Game

Along with getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing a high filtration, well-fitting mask over your mouth and nose in indoor public settings or crowds (whether indoors or outside) is crucial to preventing the spread of COVID-19. With the rapid spread of the omicron variant, now is a great time to upgrade your masks to a high filtration mask that provides the most protection. Here’s a few more tips:

Your mask should fit over your nose and mouth and snug against your face with no gaps.
If you’re using a cloth mask, wear one with multiple layers or wear a cloth mask over a surgical mask. Be sure your mask fits properly; nose wires improve fit.
Surgical masks provide protection against large droplets.
Check lists of trusted manufacturers from the CDC and Project N95 to avoid counterfeit masks.

Screenshot taken from the website to order free at-home COVID-19 tests through the federal government.

COVID-19 Testing Options

You can now order four totally free COVID-19 rapid tests per residential household through https://www.covidtests.gov/ Ordering takes just a couple minutes.

For more local testing options including home saliva PCR tests, visit https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/testsites/index.html

Using Less Sidewalk Salt Protects Water & Saves Money

Winter road and sidewalk de-icing salt is a major – and permanent – polluter of local freshwater lakes and streams. Seventy-eight percent of salt applied in the metro area ends up in groundwater or local lakes and rivers. If de-icer is needed, people should use as little as possible. It’s easy to use too much, but more salt does not mean more melting. Removing snow and ice early and often is the best approach. Shoveling instead of using chemicals will protect our waters.

Pledge to salt wisely
Any residents and businesses can take a pledge on the City of Minneapolis website to salt wisely. A 30-minute course with self-guided readings and videos will teach anyone about the consequences of using too much salt and about how to protect beloved Minnesota waters from this permanent pollution.

Socially Distanced Sledding at Armatage Park

Saturdays through February 12
10:00am – 12:00pm

Come hit the slopes! As you probably know, Armatage Park has one of *the best* sledding hills in Southwest along Penn Ave. Limited sleds are available at the recreation center, so bring one if you can and plan to distance. You can drop by any time for socially distanced sledding! Learn more here.

Recreation Center & Warming Room Hours Scaled Back

Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases and staffing shortages, drop-in hours at recreation centers are discontinued and buildings are open only for pre-registered and ActivePass programs now until February 14. Existing recreation center room rentals will be honored, but no new rentals will be accepted through February 14.

Warming room hours are also reduced through the end of the skating season. New hours are Monday-Friday, 4:00-7:00pm and Saturday-Sunday, 1:00-5:00pm. Lights will continue to remain on until 9:00pm and outdoor rink-side benches and picnic tables will be added. A friendly reminder: masks are required for all park building visitors, including staff, instructors and sport spectators.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Boosters

With the omicron variant now dominant in Minnesota, getting a COVID-19 booster AND getting children ages 5 and up vaccinated is more important than ever. Visit mn.gov/vaccine to use the Vaccine Locator Map (more options listed below). Learn more about who’s eligible for a booster here.

Find a Vaccine:

Vaccines work. If you haven’t been vaccinated or gotten a booster yet, get a free vaccine as soon as you can.

To find the site closest to you, text your ZIP code to 438829 (GETVAX); or call 1-800-232-0233.
Find COVID-19 vaccine appointments at the CDC’s VaccineFinder. You can filter by location.
Find vaccine locations and providers near you using the State’s interactive map.
Sign up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong to get contacted about vaccine in your area.
Contact Hennepin County at 612-348-8900. Help is available in English, Spanish, Somali, and Hmong. Or, visit hennepin.us/vaccineregistration

December 23, 2021 eNews

Graphic with a green background and a pine bough that says "Happy Holidays. The ANA is closed Dec 24-31. See you in 2022!"

December 21, 2021 Meeting Recap

Thanks to everyone who joined us for the last ANA Meeting of 2021! Members of the Green Team, Community Engagement Committee, and Safety, Equity & Outreach Committee presented their 2022 work plans and all the great programs and events planned for next year. The Board approved its 2022 budget and made edits to the Safety Rebate Program. With decreasing funding, the program will now have a $200 lifetime cap for residents and the business program, which hasn’t had an application in years, will be discontinued.

Last, the ANA thanked outgoing President Joel Federer for his service over the past 3.5 years and elected new President Kevin Ross, who has been serving as the current Vice President! The ANA will hold a Special Election to fill the open board seat and elect a new Vice President in January.

Collage of three images of holiday light tour stops - the upper left shows a white house with lights in front, the upper right shows a whole block holiday light installation and the bottom shows a house with white, red, and blue lights.

Holiday Light Tour Voting Results

THANK YOU to everyone who participated, particularly each of the 14 homes on the tour who put together beautiful displays and welcomed visitors from all over MN! While the voting has wrapped up, the amazing displays are there for you to enjoy and visit again this season. Find this year’s map and driving directions at https://armatage.org/holidaylights/ The three favorite displays from this year’s tour are listed below:

5500 Block of Washburn Ave S (top right)
5812 Washburn Ave S (top left)
5908 Morgan Ave S (bottom)

Rec Centers Open Over Winter Break

Youth are welcome at Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board recreation centers over Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) Winter Break (Dec. 20-31). As of Dec 20, weekday hours have expanded to 12:00-7:00pm at all MPRB recreation centers.

Drop in for unstructured play or head to minneapolisparks.org/register to search hundreds of activities offered over the next two weeks. Many recreation centers are open outside of public hours for even more activities, classes and sports. (Note: all recreation centers will be closed and programming cancelled Dec 24-25 and Dec 31-Jan 1 in observance of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.) Masks are required for all recreation center visitors, including instructors and sport spectators.

Graphic with a black background and gold glittery decorations. Text says "Armatage Neighborhood Association Special Election January 18, 2022 at 6:30pm on Zoom. Learn more and register to run at armatage.org"

January Special Election

The ANA will hold a Special Election for one open board seat on January 18, 2022! All residents (aged 18 and over) and designated neighborhood business or institution representatives are eligible to vote. Learn more about the time commitment and duties and register to run at https://armatage.org/january-2022-special-election/

Image shows two men in the grass at Armatage Park at dusk. One has a stack of green frisbees and the other has a clipboard with an Armatage eNews sign-up.

Thank You, Joel!

We want to extend a huge THANK YOU to outgoing Armatage Neighborhood Association President, Joel Federer (pictured above at right)! We are so grateful to Joel for his years of leadership helping the ANA weather staffing transitions, years of COVID, and getting ready for our big city funding program with a steady hand, good humor, and a wealth of expertise.

You’ve likely seen Joel at neighborhood events as he is usually the first to volunteer (even for the the not so fun projects like rewriting bylaws). We are glad he’ll stay involved with the Safety, Equity & Outreach Committee and wish him the best as he heads to a continuing education program this January!

Safety Rebate Program Changes

With decreasing city funding, the ANA is making a few changes to the popular Safety Rebate program. As of January 1, 2022, the program will have a $200 lifetime cap per address for residents (both renters and homeowners) and the business program, which hasn’t had an application in years, will be discontinued. The ANA will still issue rebates for eligible home safety updates for up to $100 per address per calendar year until you reach the $200 lifetime cap.

Our goal with these changes is to help as many neighbors make home safety updates as possible while keeping the program operating. Learn more at https://armatage.org/security-rebate-program-for-residents/

Take the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Survey by Dec 31

Find more information about the proposed traffic calming process and share your feedback by Dec 31 here. After reviewing feedback, Public Works will finalize the process early in 2022 and share details in the spring about how to request traffic calming measures.

Socially Distanced Sledding at Armatage Park

Tues, Dec 28
1:00-3:00pm

Come hit the slopes! As you probably know, Armatage Park has one of *the best* sledding hills in Southwest along Penn Ave. Limited sleds are available at the recreation center, so bring one if you can and plan to distance. Please register in advance just so staff know how many to expect.

(Can’t make it this week? You can drop by any time! Kids will also have more chances for socially distanced sledding parties each Saturday January 8 – February 12 from 10:00am-12:00pm at Armatage Park. Learn more here.)

Armatage Elementary Enrollment & Open House

School enrollment season is here! Anyone who lives in the neighborhood who has a child in grades K-5 during the 2022-2023 who are not already enrolled at Armatage Elementary can request Armatage as their first choice on the online school choice form at https://enrollnow.exploremps.org/onlinerequest This includes all incoming kindergartners.

Open House: learn about Armatage Elementary at the Open House on Tuesday, January 25 from 5:00-6:00pm for any prospective families who would like to tour the building, meet Principal Steve Searl and some of the teaching staff, and hear all about the school! Per MPS policy, please wear a mask.

Kanga News: Sign up for Armatage Elementary’s e-news, Kanga News! Current families and community members are welcome to sign up for Kanga News at https://armatage.mpls.k12.mn.us/Communications

Make This Holiday Season Low Waste

Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling has a TON of helpful resources to help you celebrate low waste holidays, find answers to your “where does this go?” recycling questions, and more!

Get answers to all your recycling questions by…
- Checking out the searchable Minneapolis Disposal Guide.
- Joining the Minneapolis Recycling Facebook group.
- Contacting Solid Waste & Recycling at 612-673-2917 or SWRcustomer@minneapolismn.gov
Prevent food waste by…
- Using the free Guest-imator tool to calculate how much food you actually need: https://savethefood.com/guestimator
- Find tips and tricks on how to store food to maximize its shelf life at https://savethefood.com/storage
Compost your peelings, pits, bones and more through the free Organics Recycling Program (renters in large buildings can use free organics drop-offs!).
- Learn more on what’s accepted and how to participate here.
Avoid glittery or foil wrapping paper that can’t be recycled. Find creative ways to wrap at https://www.hennepin.us/choose-to-reuse/tips/creative-gift-wrap
Keep broken light strings and cords out of your blue recycling cart. Bring them to a Hennepin County drop-off facility or other holiday light recycling location for recycling instead.
Sign up for recycling reminder emails by finding your collection day here and clicking “sign up for recycling reminders”

Sign up for the Next Armatage Reading Circle

Hello neighbors! Interested in joining a book club? Have past book clubs overwhelmed you with the pace of reading and content overload? Well, then consider joining our slothful book club. Each month, we will read a small chunk of a book and then get together to discuss questions focused solely on that chunk. That way, the pace is more manageable and the questions feel more relevant.

Last year, we read All We Can Save: Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis and are currently looking for a new title for next year! The goal would be to start in Jan/Feb 2022 and it would last anywhere from 6 to 9 months based on the book we choose. If you’re interested in joining and/or have titles that might be worth sharing with your neighbors, please sign up at https://bit.ly/2022readingcircle

Free Dog & Cat Adoptions

Minneapolis Animal Care & Control currently has NO adoption fee for cats and dogs over six months old! Are you ready to adopt a new furry family member just in time for the new year?

See cats ready for adoption or browse dogs ready for adoption.
Call 311 or 612-673-6222 to request an adoption appointment. Appointments are available Monday through Friday.
Adopters must meet and spend time with the animal they want to adopt before completing adoption paperwork.
Minneapolis residents must purchase a City pet license.

Visit the City website for more information

Sign up for Southwest Voices

We’re happy to announce that the Armatage Neighborhood Association will be partnering with Southwest Voices, a local news and information service covering SW Minneapolis. Southwest Voices has a free daily newsletter with information on how to get involved with the city, fun local events, restaurant openings and closings, live reports from School Board, Park Board, and City Council meetings, and information about community happenings. Sign-up at SouthwestVoices.news.

The ANA will receive a portion of each membership fee from people that sign up from our neighborhood, so if you sign up to support Southwest Voices, you’re also supporting the ANA. As a civic news organization that believes that good local journalism starts with listening, Southwest Voices wants to hear from you! Shoot them a note at info@southwestvoices.news or a text message at 612-204-2887 to share what you’d like to see covered and follow them on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

New Minneapolis Crisis Response Teams

The City of Minneapolis launched a behavioral crisis response teams pilot project. Canopy Roots will provide crisis intervention, counseling, and connection to support services as an alternative to police responders. Two mobile units will operate throughout Minneapolis 7:30 am to midnight, Monday through Friday, and eventually ramp up to service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Each vehicle will have a team of two behavioral health responders and outreach supplies, such as water, socks, snacks and toiletries.

People should continue to call 911 for help with behavioral crises. 911 dispatchers will gather information and determine if the incident is eligible for a mobile behavioral health team response. The teams will not respond to incidents involving firearms or violent behavior. The Minneapolis Police Department will only be on scene if dispatch determines the need to clear the scene first or the response teams request assistance to complete their work. Learn more about the behavioral crisis response teams here.

Minneapolis Ice Rink Updates

Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board staff are hard at work preparing the ice for this year’s skating, hockey and broomball season! None of the rinks or warming houses are open yet, but you can watch the progress using this interactive rink map.

Do you have old or outgrown skates that are still in great condition? Parks (including Armatage Park) would love to adopt them! You can do the park staff a big favor by making sure they’re in ready-to-go condition and freshly sharpened for new skaters.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Boosters

With the omicron variant now dominant in Minnesota, getting a COVID-19 booster for anyone 16 and up who is at least 6 months past their second dose AND getting children ages 5 and up vaccinated is more important than ever. Visit mn.gov/vaccine to use the Vaccine Locator Map (more options listed below).

Find a Vaccine:

Vaccines work. If you haven’t been vaccinated or gotten a booster yet, get a free vaccine as soon as you can.

To find the site closest to you, text your ZIP code to 438829 (GETVAX); or call 1-800-232-0233.
Find COVID-19 vaccine appointments at the CDC’s VaccineFinder. You can filter by location.
Find vaccine locations and providers near you using the State’s interactive map.
Sign up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong to get contacted about vaccine in your area.
Contact Hennepin County at 612-348-8900. Help is available in English, Spanish, Somali, and Hmong. Or, visit hennepin.us/vaccineregistration

	April 2024
Sun	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat
	1	2	3	4	5	6
7	8	9	10	11 Green Team Meeting [TITLE] [TIME] [LOCATION] See more details •	12	13
14	15	16 Armatage Monthly Meeting [TITLE] [TIME] [LOCATION] Join the Armatage Neighborhood Association Board for its Monthly Neighborhood Meeting! All meetings are open to community members so please come check it out! The Board currently meets at the Armatage Rec Center in person. Meeting agendas are posted at armatage.org a few days beforehand and there is time for comments from community members at the beginning of each meeting so please bring your ideas, questions and concerns! See more details •	17	18	19	20 Earth Day Clean-up [TITLE] [TIME] [LOCATION] Meet us at the park on Saturday and help clean up the neighborhood! See more details •
21	22	23	24 Happy Hour [TITLE] [TIME] [LOCATION] head over to Red Wagon Pizza and get to know some of your neighbors! See more details •	25	26	27
28	29	30