Category Archives: About Town

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/

Drawing that shows a group of four children cleaning up trash and recycling at a park with a city skyline in the background

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!

Image shows a collage of cats, dogs, chickens, and even a beared dragon and a hamster and has a blue circle that says "Armatage Pet Fest"

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:

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.

Image shows Minneapolis park staff setting up at an outdoor movie with fall trees in the background.

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

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 four totally free COVID-19 rapid tests per residential household at https://mn.gov/covid19/  Ordering takes just a couple minutes.

Graphic with a blue background and coral flowers that says "Donate Today. The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit."

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.

April 15, 2022 eNews

April 19, 2022 Agenda

Come one, come all to the Armatage Monthly Meeting next Tuesday, April 19 from 6:30-8:30pm on Zoom! You’re encouraged to attend and bring your questions, ideas, and concerns. Register to attend at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Update from Council Member Palmisano
  • Comments from Community
  • Approval of March Minutes & Financials
  • Renter Engagement Fall Event
    • Date & Location
    • Organizational Partners
  • Annual Meeting & Board Election Final Details
    • Speaker & Agenda Update
    • Set-up, Take Down & Tabling Volunteers
    • Election Team
  • Transition to In-person Meetings Update
    • AV Equipment Needed
    • Committee Plans
  • Coordinator Report
  • ANA Committee Updates
  • New Business

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"

Tech Help for Seniors

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

Come to the Armatage Community Center for free tech help next 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. Learn more at armatage.org/techhelp/

Drawing that shows a group of four children cleaning up trash and recycling at a park with a city skyline in the background

Spring Earth Day Clean-up

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

Join the Armatage Green Team and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (MPRB) for the annual Earth Day Clean-up at Armatage Park next 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

Image shows a blue recycling cart, black trash cart, green organics cart, yard waste bin, compostable yard waste bag and a paper yard waste bag at an alley ready for collection

Yard Waste Collection is Here!

It snuck up on us this year, but yard waste collection is BACK!

Bag or use a reusable container for your leaves, brush and other yard trimmings at your alley or curb next to your solid waste carts on collection day. Learn more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/…/garbage…/yard-waste/

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

Spring Street Sweeping Starts April 19

It doesn’t feel like spring but street sweeping is coming soon! The City of Minneapolis will start sweeping more than 1,000 miles of streets on April 19. Look for no parking signs to avoid a ticket or tow!

Image shows a collage of cats, dogs, chickens, and even a beared dragon and a hamster and has a blue circle that says "Armatage Pet Fest"

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 and more! Visit a pet chiropractor, get nail clips, grab human treats from Sparrow Cafe, meet other Armatage animal lovers and more! All are welcome, whether you have a pet to bring or not. Hosted by the 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

Screenshot of Armatage Neighborhood Association Youtube channel that shows thumbnails for soil health and plastic workshops

Stream Armatage Neighborhood Workshops

Missed the Soil Health Panel? Want to get some practical solutions to use less plastic? Curious about solar options? The Armatage Neighborhood Association’s virtual workshops are now available to stream on our Youtube channel! Check them out and subscribe here. 

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.

The graphic shows a shaded backyard patio with chairs and a bench surrounded by trees. The text through the picture reads "Resilient yards. Much Cooler."

Blue Thumb Workshops: Resilient Yards & Pollinator Lawns

Register for Blue Thumb’s low cost virtual workshops this spring!  Workshops teach earth-friendly actions that mitigate the impacts of heat waves, flooding rains, and habitat loss through rain gardens, native planting, and other do-it-yourself tactics. Resilient Yards will cover resilience, site assessment, rain gardens, native planting, designing with trees and shrubs, turf alternatives, and other information for an eco-friendly yard. Pollinator Lawns/Turf Alternatives will focus on options to traditional turf lawns including flowering lawns that support pollinators and that require less watering and mowing.

Workshops cost $15 and will be offered throughout the spring. Full scholarships are available. Learn more and see a schedule of workshops by visiting https://bluethumb.org/events/ or calling 651-699-2426.

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.

Image shows Minneapolis park staff setting up at an outdoor movie with fall trees in the background.

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

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 four totally free COVID-19 rapid tests per residential household at https://mn.gov/covid19/  Ordering takes just a couple minutes.

Graphic with a blue background and coral flowers that says "Donate Today. The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit."

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.

April 8, 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"

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 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. Learn more at armatage.org/techhelp/

Drawing that shows a group of four children cleaning up trash and recycling at a park with a city skyline in the background

Spring Earth Day Clean-up

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

Join the Armatage Green Team and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (MPRB) for the annual Earth Day Clean-up at Armatage Park on 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

Image shows a collage of cats, dogs, chickens, and even a beared dragon and a hamster and has a blue circle that says "Armatage Pet Fest"

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 and more! Visit a pet chiropractor, get nail clips, grab human treats from Sparrow Cafe, meet other Armatage animal lovers and more! All are welcome, whether you have a pet to bring or not. Hosted by the 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

Screenshot of Armatage Neighborhood Association Youtube channel that shows thumbnails for soil health and plastic workshops

Stream Armatage Neighborhood Workshops 

Missed the Soil Health Panel? Want to get some practical solutions to use less plastic? Curious about solar options? The Armatage Neighborhood Association’s virtual workshops are now available to stream on our Youtube channel! Check them out and subscribe here. 

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 (mid-April or early May) to protect pollinators.

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

Spring Street Sweeping Starts April 19

It doesn’t feel like spring but street sweeping is coming soon! The City of Minneapolis will start sweeping more than 1,000 miles of streets on April 19. Look for no parking signs to avoid a ticket or tow!

The graphic shows a shaded backyard patio with chairs and a bench surrounded by trees. The text through the picture reads "Resilient yards. Much Cooler."

Blue Thumb Workshops: Resilient Yards & Pollinator Lawns

Register for Blue Thumb’s low cost virtual workshops this spring!  Workshops teach earth-friendly actions that mitigate the impacts of heat waves, flooding rains, and habitat loss through rain gardens, native planting, and other do-it-yourself tactics. Resilient Yards will cover resilience, site assessment, rain gardens, native planting, designing with trees and shrubs, turf alternatives, and other information for an eco-friendly yard. Pollinator Lawns/Turf Alternatives will focus on options to traditional turf lawns including flowering lawns that support pollinators and that require less watering and mowing.

Workshops cost $15 and will be offered throughout the spring. Full scholarships are available. Learn more and see a schedule of workshops by visiting https://bluethumb.org/events/ or calling 651-699-2426.

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.

Image shows Minneapolis park staff setting up at an outdoor movie with fall trees in the background.

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

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 four totally free COVID-19 rapid tests per residential household at https://mn.gov/covid19/  Ordering takes just a couple minutes.

Graphic with a blue background and coral flowers that says "Donate Today. The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit."

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.

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/

Image shows a barren farm field and a thriving green field side by side with the words "New Breakthrough: A Cure for Climate Change" in white text in front of the images.

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:

Image shows the Mpls skyline in the background on a sunny spring day with a parking lot and LOTS of low cost trees potted and ready for pick-up by city residents.

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: 

Image shows a collage of four images from a summer food truck night. In the top left, two men are masked and behind a table with a hydrodipping art station. In the upper right hand, many neighbors are waiting in line for food trucks. In the lower left hand, two tables are set up under tents with the Armatage logo and lots of volunteers talking to neighbors. In the bottom right, two women are monitoring organics and recycling.

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

Image shows a Metro Transit city bus for Route 6E to Southdale on Upton Ave in Linden Hills. Snow is melting on the streets and riders are waiting to get on the bus.

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

Image shows the Minneapolis skyline and stone arch bridge at dusk.

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.

Graphic with yellow, organge, green and cream that says "Tech Help for Seniors Sat, April 23 1-3pm. Please wear a mask. armatage.org/techhelp"

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.

Image is a screenshot of the cover of the After Action Review Report

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.

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

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.

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

Graphic with a blue background and coral flowers that says "Donate Today. The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit."
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.

February 24, 2022 eNews

Upcoming 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 virtual community screening of Kiss the Ground in March and a panel on regenerative agriculture on March 24 at 7:00pm on Zoom. Learn more and register at https://armatage.org/soilhealth/

Soil might be the last thing on your mind right now. But in a moment when the future of our planet and humankind is at stake, nothing may be more important than regenerating the ground beneath us. We’re in need of a kind of hope we’ve never felt before. All are welcome to attend whether you live in Armatage or not.

Image shows a collage of four images from a summer food truck night. In the top left, two men are masked and behind a table with a hydrodipping art station. In the upper right hand, many neighbors are waiting in line for food trucks. In the lower left hand, two tables are set up under tents with the Armatage logo and lots of volunteers talking to neighbors. In the bottom right, two women are monitoring organics and recycling.

Get Involved with the Community Engagement Committee

Hi Neighbors! Did you know that Armatage has a Community Engagement Committee that plans fun events to bring the neighborhood together? Last year we worked as a team to create Spring Tea & Blooms and the Summer Food Truck Night along with the Halloween Decoration and Holiday Light Tours.

We would love for you to join us. Check out the Armatage calendar on the website and then choose to volunteer for a single event. Or you can join the Committee to help plan new events throughout the year. Come meet new friends and neighbors while making Armatage an even better place to live!

To register to volunteer or to join the Community Engagement Committee, visit https://armatage.org/get-involved/

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 has pulled together tips from a wide range of sources from cities across the country, local media, law enforcement, and our own committee members. We hope they help you to stay aware and stay safe.

See the full list at https://armatage.org/safety-tips/  Follow the ANA on Facebook or Instagram for posts to share with family, friends and neighbors.

Image shows a person holding a KN95 mask in their hands

Minneapolis Lifts Mask Mandate

The City of Minneapolis has lifted its mask mandate, which had been in place since January 5. Rates in Minneapolis have been dropping rapidly and steadily, with a 7-day new case rate of 135 per 100,000 individuals and positivity rates below the high-risk threshold based on the latest reported data.

Individual organizations may still institute individual mask mandates. The City of Minneapolis will continue to uphold mask mandates for City employees and City-managed buildings. Visitors and employees in City-managed buildings will still be required to wear a mask. Consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), masks will continue to be strongly recommended in public indoor settings.

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.

There is one more public hearing TODAY (Thursday, Feb 24) at 4:00pm (register online here to speak).

Going forward: the Minneapolis Charter Commission is expected to approve proposed ward and park district maps at 4:00pm on Wednesday, Mar 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.

Image shows a group of seven Armatage Neighborhood Association board, staff and volunteers standing under a tent at an outdoor summer event. Everyone is wearing navy shirts that say "Armatage".

Join the ANA Board

The Armatage Neighborhood Association (ANA) has one additional open seat on the Board of Directors! We welcome any Armatage resident that is interested in making an impact, wanting to connect with neighbors and can provide a unique perspective! This is an opportunity open to renters and homeowners alike!

The time commitment and duties are posted at https://armatage.org/open-board-seats/ If you are interested in learning more, please email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and plan to attend the March 15 Monthly Meeting at 6:30pm on Zoom. Photo credit: Jacob Tapia.

Image shows the Minenapolis skyline at dusk with street lights illuminated from the river.

Office of Police Conduct Review to Review No-Knock Warrant Policy

In the wake of the Feb. 2 fatal police shooting of Amir Locke, the Office of Police Conduct Review (OPCR), a division of the City’s Civil Rights Department, will conduct a special review of Minneapolis Police Department’s no-knock warrant policy. The review will focus on identifying and recommending specific changes and improvements to department policy and procedures. Read more here.

Click here to watch the Feb 7 Policy & Government Oversight Committee’s discussion on no-knock warrants.

Canopy logo with sea glass background and two hands (one with tan skin and the with brown skin) holding a growing plant and reaching toward the word "canopy" above.

Minneapolis Behavioral Crisis Response Teams Expand Hours

The City’s Behavioral Crisis Response teams are now operating 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday. The teams are part of a pilot project led by the City’s Office of Performance and Innovation with Canopy Roots. Two mobile units operate throughout Minneapolis. Each has a team of two behavioral health responders and outreach supplies, such as water, socks, snacks and toiletries.

People having a behavioral crisis, or reporting one, should continue to call 911 for help. 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 MPD will only be on the 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 pilot project here.

Armatage Park is Hiring!

Armatage Park is hiring! Positions available range from childcare staff to programmers, customer service and building supervisors! The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board offers flexible scheduling with hours ranging from afternoon-evening, weekdays and weekends available.

This is a great opportunity for teens, young adults, retired neighbors and anyone looking for flexible, fun work. Reach out to our Park Director Jordan at Armatage@mineapolisparks.org for more information or to apply.

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

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.

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

Mask Mandate: all patrons, employees and visitors over the age of 2 must wear a mask in Minneapolis businesses and areas of public accommodation. Learn more at https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/coronavirus/masking-guidance/

Graphic with a blue background and coral flowers that says "Donate Today. The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit."

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.

February 3, 2022 eNews

Image shows a group of seven Armatage Neighborhood Association board, staff and volunteers standing under a tent at an outdoor summer event. Everyone is wearing navy shirts that say "Armatage".

Join the Board

The Armatage Neighborhood Association (ANA) has two open seats on the Board of Directors! We welcome any Armatage resident that is interested in making an impact, wanting to connect with neighbors and can provide a unique perspective! This is an opportunity open to renters and homeowners alike!

The time commitment and duties are posted at https://armatage.org/open-board-seats/ If you are interested in learning more, please email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org. Photo credit: Jacob Tapia.

Celebrate Black History Month

The first Black History Month was organized in February 1926 by Carter G. Woodson to encourage “people of all ethnic and social backgrounds [to] discuss the black experience” (ASALH). Congress passed “National Black History Month” into law in 1986, proclaiming that “the foremost purpose of Black History Month is to make all Americans aware of this struggle for freedom and equal opportunity” (Library of Congress).

Here are just a few small ways to learn more:

  • Sign up for free, once-a-day emails from Anti-Racism Daily’s 28 Days of Black History at https://www.28daysofblackhistory.com/
  • The Capri Theater is showing “How It Feels To Be Free,” tonight (February 3) at 7:00pm. The film centers the story of six iconic Black female performers challenging racism in the entertainment industry. Post-screening community discussion to follow. Tickets are available here.
  • Midtown Global Market hosts a celebration this Saturday, Feb 5 from 12:00-3:00pm showcasing the Black community. Check out new pop-up vendors, musicians, food and kids crafts. Learn more here.
  • The Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery’s latest exhibit shares the stories of early Black settlers in Southeast Minnesota. Now open with free admission and parking. Learn more here.
  • Read a book with your child:

Thanks to Safety, Equity & Outreach Member Sheila Dingels for pulling these and the following Lunar New Year resources together!

Image shows a cluster of illuminated red lanterns with gold twinkle lights in the background at night.

Happy Lunar New Year

February 1 st is the beginning of the Lunar New Year in Asian culture, and 2022 is the Year of the Tiger. On the stroke of midnight on the first day of the New Year, every door and window in the house is opened to allow the old year to go out. The color red holds a significant place in New Year celebrations. Specifically, people wear red clothes, they decorate poems on red paper, and they give children “lucky” money in red envelopes. For the Chinese, red symbolizes fire, which traditionally was believed to prevent bad luck.

Here are some ways to celebrate or learn more:

  • Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Minnesota Orchestra. This special event on Saturday, February 5 at 8:00pm will draw upon cultural traditions past and present. Learn more here.
  • Watch this YouTube video on how to make Chinese lanterns.
  • Celebrate the Year of the Tiger, one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, with the Met Museum’s exhibition items online.
  • Enjoy this book with your child: Lunar New Year (Celebrate the World) by Hannah Eliot and Alina Chau.
  • Find interactive videos on New Year and the traditional art of paper cutting through Hennepin County Library (paper cutting kits available at certain library locations).

Graphic has a blue/purple background and shows an outline of a person surrounded by headphones, phones and other devices. The graphic reads "Safety Tip: Be aware of your surroundings" with the Armatage logo.

Personal Safety & Carjacking Prevention Tips

Our Safety Equity & Outreach Committee pulled together tips from a wide range of sources from MPD, local media, cities across the country and our own committee members. We hope they help you to stay aware and stay safe.

See the full list at https://armatage.org/safety-tips/  Follow the ANA on Facebook or Instagram for posts to share with family, friends and neighbors.

Image shows a collage of four nighttime photos - one with two women behind a mutual aid table full of donations, another with neighbors and volunteers at event tables with lots of people in the background, the third shows a group of bundled up folks around a fire pit, and the last shows a group of people watching people skate on an ice rink.

Armatage Fire & Ice Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who came out to Armatage Park’s Fire & Ice event last Friday! Thanks to your generous donations, six large bags of winter weather gear was given to the People’s Closet in George Floyd Square! They were very happy to get the donations as their supplies were starting to dwindle down.

Special thanks to Armatage park staff for hosting! Extra kudos goes to our outstanding volunteers – Kevin, Sharla, Ethan, Torrie, Joyce, Sheila and Paul! So grateful to each of you!

Join Hennepin County’s Plastic-Free Challenge

Our actions help create a plastic-free world!

Join the 814 participants (and counting!) in reducing your plastic consumption, especially single-use plastics, in ways that fit best in your lifestyle and are most impactful to reducing your footprint. The challenge, which runs February 1 through 28, will help you increase your understanding of plastics and plastic waste, uncover opportunities to cut back on the amount of plastic you bring into your home, and provide support and motivation to make lasting change at home and in your community.  Learn more and sign up at https://hennepinplasticfree.ecochallenge.org/

(The ANA hosted a GREAT workshop on the problem with plastic and practical solutions one year ago with informative speakers from the City, Tare Market, and Eureka Recycling – check it out here!)

Armatage Welcome Bags

Have you or any neighbors on your block recently moved to Armatage? If so, we want to bring an Armatage Welcome Bag! The groovy, reusable tote bag’s contents include useful information on the ANA, elected representatives, governmental services, local businesses, and a couple of fun items to welcome you.

  • Homeowners: be on the lookout for friendly ANA volunteers Ethan (pictured), Eli or Kevin with a Welcome Bag with your name on it! They’ll swing by to do a distanced drop-off.
  • Renters: if you are a renter who moved in during the past year or if you own a rental property in the neighborhood and have newish tenants, please reach out to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and let us know where we can drop off a Welcome Bag!

Graphic of an envelope with a note that says "Calling All Block Leaders! We're gathering contact info for every block leader in Armatage. Send your name, email address, phone, and the block(s) you represent to anacoordinator@armatage.org"

Block Leader Contact Info Needed

The ANA is gathering block leader contact information for every block in Armatage and we need your help! If you help organize any events on your block (like block parties, book clubs, etc.), you’re a block leader and we’d love to connect with you!

Currently, city requirements mean that block leader information cannot be shared or accessed by neighborhoods. Thanks to everyone who has already reached out – we’ve got contact information for about 1/3 of all blocks in Armatage and hope to keep adding to this list!

  • If you are a block leader and we don’t have your contact info yet, please send your name, address, email address, phone, and the block(s) that you represent to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org
  • If you’re interested in learning more about block and apartment clubs and how they work, visit http://bit.ly/blockclubs to learn more!

Upcoming 58th St/Sunrise Dr/60th St Meeting

Minneapolis Public Works will hold a virtual meeting on the 60th St/Sunrise Dr/58th St repaving project and related assessment on Wednesday, February 23rd, at 6:30pm.  To access the virtual meeting, please visit https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/58th-st-w/  A link to the Microsoft Teams meeting will be posted on the resurfacing project page the day of the meeting.

If you have any questions about assessments for this project, please email the Special Assessment Office at pwspecialassessments@minneapolismn.gov or call 612-673-2401. If you have any questions about construction, please email: Hazel.Wolf@minneapolismn.gov or call 612-772-2524.

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.

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 4:00pm on Wednesday, Mar 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.

Image shows a basket of vegetables including beets, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and parsnips and a sprig of mint sitting on a wood bench in front of a bamboo fence.

Free Vegetable Growing Basics Classes

Join the Hennepin County Master Gardeners for a 4-week series on Vegetable Growing Basics. Take a deeper dive to learn what you can spend your time planning, selecting and doing while waiting for the outdoor season to begin again. This series of classes provides a post-beginner view of how to plan and get ready for your herb and vegetable garden. Classes take place on Saturdays at 10am or Tuesdays at 7pm starting February 5. Registration is free – sign up here.

Image shows a graphic of a kangaroo holding a book and says "Armatage Elementary School"

Armatage Elementary Enrollment Deadline is February 7

School enrollment season is coming to a close! 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 (scroll down to the 2022-2023 enrollment) by this Monday, February 7!  This includes all incoming kindergartners.

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

Image shows children walking up a sledding hill with sleds in hand.

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 a great sledding hill and winter is the perfect time to burn off some energy sledding with friends and neighbors.

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.

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 last week, 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. Now is a great time to upgrade your masks to a high filtration mask that provides the most protection. Here are 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

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Boosters

Visit mn.gov/vaccine to use the Vaccine Locator Map (more options listed below). Learn more about  boosters 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.

January 27, 2022 eNews

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 – Tomorrow!

Friday, January 28 
6:00-7:30pm

Join Armatage Park’s annual Fire & Ice Family Skating party tomorrow, 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 (we’ll have multiples going!). 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.

If you or someone you know is in need of winter gear, please stop by the winter gear table and take whatever you need to stay warm!

Image shows a group of seven Armatage Neighborhood Association board, staff and volunteers standing under a tent at an outdoor summer event. Everyone is wearing navy shirts that say "Armatage".

Join the Board

The Armatage Neighborhood Association (ANA) has two open seats on the Board of Directors! We welcome any Armatage resident that is interested in making an impact, wanting to connect with neighbors and can provide a unique perspective! This is an opportunity open to renters and homeowners alike!

The time commitment and duties are posted at https://armatage.org/open-board-seats/ If you are interested in learning more, please email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org. Photo credit: Jacob Tapia.

Armatage Welcome Bags

Have you or any neighbors on your block recently moved to Armatage? If so, we want to bring an Armatage Welcome Bag! The groovy, reusable tote bag’s contents include useful information on the ANA, elected representatives, governmental services, local businesses, and a couple of fun items to welcome you.

  • Homeowners: be on the lookout for friendly ANA volunteers Ethan (pictured), Eli or Kevin with a Welcome Bag with your name on it! They’ll swing by to do a masked, distanced drop-off.
  • Renters: if you are a renter who moved in during the past year or if you own a rental property in the neighborhood and have newish tenants, please reach out to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and let us know where we can drop off a Welcome Bag!

Graphic of an envelope with a note that says "Calling All Block Leaders! We're gathering contact info for every block leader in Armatage. Send your name, email address, phone, and the block(s) you represent to anacoordinator@armatage.org"

Block Leader Contact Info Needed

The ANA is gathering block leader contact information for every block in Armatage and we need your help! Currently, city requirements mean that block leader information cannot be shared or accessed by neighborhoods. Thanks to everyone who has already reached out – we’ve got contact information for about 1/3 of all blocks in the neighborhood and hope to keep adding to this list!

  • If you are a block leader and we don’t have your contact info yet, please send your name, address, email address, phone, and the block(s) that you represent to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org
  • If you’re interested in learning more about block and apartment clubs and how they work, visit http://bit.ly/blockclubs to learn more!

Upcoming 58th St/Sunrise Dr/60th St Meeting

Minneapolis Public Works will hold a virtual meeting on the 60th St/Sunrise Dr/58th St repaving project and related assessment on Wednesday, February 23rd, at 6:30pm.  To access the virtual meeting, please visit https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/58th-st-w/  A link to the Microsoft Teams meeting will be posted on the resurfacing project page the day of the meeting.

If you have any questions about assessments for this project, please email the Special Assessment Office at pwspecialassessments@minneapolismn.gov or call 612-673-2401. If you have any questions about construction, please email: Hazel.Wolf@minneapolismn.gov or call 612-772-2524.

Image shows a basket of vegetables including beets, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and parsnips and a sprig of mint sitting on a wood bench in front of a bamboo fence.

Free Vegetable Growing Basics Classes

Join the Hennepin County Master Gardeners for a 4-week series on Vegetable Growing Basics. Take a deeper dive to learn what you can spend your time planning, selecting and doing while waiting for the outdoor season to begin again. This series of classes provides a post-beginner view of how to plan and get ready for your herb and vegetable garden. Classes take place on Saturdays at 10am or Tuesdays at 7pm starting February 5. Registration is free – sign up here.

Image shows children walking up a sledding hill with sleds in hand.

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 a great sledding hill and winter is the perfect time to burn off some energy sledding with friends and neighbors.

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.

Image shows a graphic of a kangaroo holding a book and says "Armatage Elementary School"

Armatage Elementary Enrollment

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 (scroll down to the 2022-2023 enrollment) by February 7!  This includes all incoming kindergartners.

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

Image shows a gloved hand sprinkling blue salt crystals from a small cup onto a shoveled sidewalk. The salt distribution shown is sparse according to safe salting practices.

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 and with the extra cold temps we’ve been having, most de-icers don’t work below 15 degrees anyway.

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.

Image of a traffic circle at a Minneapolis snowy neighborhood intersection.

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.

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.

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.

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 last week, 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

Image of the Armatage Community Center at dusk. The sky is inky, snow is on the ground and the building glows in the fading light.

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.

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

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.

January 13, 2022 eNews

January 18, 2022 Agenda

Please join the first Armatage Monthly Meeting of the year next Tuesday, January 18 from 6:30-8:30pm on Zoom. Neighbors are encouraged to attend. Register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Ward 13 Update – Council Vice President Linea Palmisano (6:35pm)
  • Park Update – Jordan Nelson, Armatage Park Director (6:55pm)
  • Special Election for Open Board Seat (7:00pm)
  • Vice President Midterm Election (7:05pm)
  • Lawns to Legumes Grant Opportunity (7:10pm)
  • Armatage.org Updates (7:25pm)
  • Coordinator Report (7:45pm)
  • ANA Committee Updates (8:00pm)
  • New Business (8:15pm)

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!  The deadline to register to run is this Sunday, January 16!  All residents (aged 18 and over) and designated neighborhood business or institution representatives are eligible to vote through an online form on Tuesday, January 18 from 9:00am-7:00pm.

Learn more about the time commitment and duties and register to run at armatage.org/january-2022-special-election/

Image shows a speaker at a podium from a previous Rev. Dr. MLK Day Celebration. There are several people also on the stage.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration

Monday, January 17
6:30-8:00pm

Annual tributes to Dr. King’s life and legacy take place at several Minneapolis park locations throughout the day, including an evening celebration at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center with speakers, live entertainment and the presentation of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s Living the Dream award.

The celebration will be emceed by Chad Jackson, Senior Manager, Brand Partnerships, with the Minnesota Twins. Adair Mosley, President and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities, will be the keynote speaker. Musical performances that evening will come from “VocalEssence Singers Of This Age”.  Click here to learn more.

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/

Lake Harriet Kite Festival

The Kite Festival returns to frozen Lake Harriet on 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 graphic of a kangaroo holding a book and says "Armatage Elementary School"

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: 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

Graphic that lists a Saturday, Jan 15, 2022 service opportunity to pack kits for neighbors in need hosted by trust.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

Saturday, January 15
10:00am-12:00pm
Richfield Lutheran Church (8 W 60th St)

Looking for a meaningful service opportunity to honor Dr. King’s life and legacy?  Join TRUST Inc. for a free “Day of Service” Event packing cold weather kits for neighbors in need. The Keynote Speaker for this event is City Council President Andrea Jenkins. This is a great service opportunity for all ages. All attendees must wear a mask and plan to distance indoors while packing kits. Please give a TRUST a heads up that you can make it by calling 612.827.6159.

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 January 19, everyone over the age of two 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/

Graphic with a white background that shows the outline of a test tube and says "Stay Safe MN COVID-19 Testing"

COVID-19 Testing Options

Did you know that the MDH provides FREE COVID-19 saliva PCR testing from home via rapid delivery (often courier)? All you need is an internet connection to order your test AND to schedule a zoom observation of you taking the saliva test. Drop off the completed test sample at a UPS/USPS/Fedex drop-off site. Here’s a link to order your test: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/testsites/athome.html The Vault saliva PCR tests have been running out so be sure to check back if the order forms asks for payment as more free tests will be available soon.

Need a rapid or can’t wait? Find community testing site options at https://mn.gov/covid19/get-tested/testing-locations/community-testing.jsp

Image shows a gloved hand sprinkling blue salt crystals from a small cup onto a shoveled sidewalk. The salt distribution shown is sparse according to safe salting practices.

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.

Image of a traffic circle at a Minneapolis snowy neighborhood intersection.

Deadline Extended for Neighborhood Traffic Calming Survey

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.

Image of the Armatage Community Center at dusk. The sky is inky, snow is on the ground and the building glows in the fading light.

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.

Image shows children walking up a sledding hill with sleds in hand.

Socially Distanced Sledding at Armatage Park

Saturday, January 8 – 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.

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

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.

January 6, 2022 eNews

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 armatage.org/january-2022-special-election/

Image shows a graphic of a kangaroo holding a book and says "Armatage Elementary School"

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: 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

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.

Minneapolis Mask Mandate Starts Today

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 effective today (Thursday, January 6) at 5:00pm. This includes restaurants, bars, libraries, retail stores, schools, recreation centers, rental establishments, theaters and more.

Read the full text of Mayor Jacob Frey’s emergency regulation No. 2022-1 here, which reinstates the citywide mask policy.  Get all your questions answered at https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/coronavirus/common-questions/ and click on “Guidelines around wearing masks.”

Graphic with a white background that shows the outline of a test tube and says "Stay Safe MN COVID-19 Testing"

Free PCR Tests Delivered to Your Door

Did you know that the MDH provides FREE COVID-19 saliva PCR testing from home via rapid delivery (often courier)? All you need is an internet connection to order your test AND to schedule a zoom observation of you taking the saliva test. Drop off the completed test sample at a UPS/USPS/Fedex drop-off site and you’ll get results back usually within 48 hours. Here’s a link to order your test: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/testsites/athome.html

With the Omicron variant surging in Minnesota, it’s extra critical to test often. The Vault saliva PCR tests have been running out so be sure to check back if the order forms asks for payment as more free tests will be available soon.

Image shows two people with a waterfall in the background

Thank You, Joel!

We want to extend a huge THANK YOU to outgoing Armatage Neighborhood Association President, Joel Federer (pictured above at right with his wife Carrie)! 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! 

Image shows a home with lights on at night and a garage with a security camera

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, the program has a $200 lifetime cap per address for residents (both renters and homeowners) and the business program, which hasn’t had an application in years, is 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/

Graphic with an image of full bookshelves in the background and a dark pink circle over that that says "Join the 2022 Armatage Reading Circle. Sign up at bit.ly/2022readingcircle " and a small image of the cover of "The Overstory" book

Sign up for the Next Armatage Reading Circle

Have past book clubs overwhelmed you with the pace of reading and content overload? Well, then consider joining our neighborhood slothful book club! Each month, we will read a small chunk of The Overstory by Richard Powers and then get together to discuss questions focused solely on that portion.

The first meeting will be Wednesday, February 16 at 7:00pm on Zoom. If you’re interested in joining, please learn more and sign up at https://bit.ly/2022readingcircle

Image shows a speaker at a podium from a previous Rev. Dr. MLK Day Celebration. There are several people also on the stage.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration

Monday, January 17
6:30-8:00pm

Annual tributes to Dr. King’s life and legacy take place at several Minneapolis park locations throughout the day, including an evening celebration at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center with speakers, live entertainment and the presentation of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s Living the Dream award.

The celebration will be emceed by Chad Jackson, Senior Manager, Brand Partnerships, with the Minnesota Twins. Adair Mosley, President and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities, will be the keynote speaker. Musical performances that evening will come from “VocalEssence Singers Of This Age”.  Click here to learn more.

Graphic that shows a small white van with "Kid A" on the side, images of used kids gear (stroller, bike, boxes, high chair) that says "Kid Clutter Pickup Drive"

Kid Clutter Pickup Drive

The Kid Clutter Pickup Drive returns to Armatage on Monday January 10th! Schedule one convenient pickup of all your outgrown toys & kid gear, and start the year decluttered. Leave it all on your front step and local organization Kid A will pay you for the items that they resell and donate the rest to local non-profit organizations.

Image shows children walking up a sledding hill with sleds in hand.

Socially Distanced Sledding at Armatage Park

Saturday, January 8 – 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.

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?

Visit the City website for more information

The image shows a group of recreational skaters of all ages and abilities wearing masks and skating outdoors on a rink on a lake.

Minneapolis Ice Rinks are Open

Skating rinks and warming houses are open across the City! Check the status of each rink 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.

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

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.

Redistricting Process

Participate in the Minneapolis 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, January 26 at 4:00pm

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

Next steps: the Minneapolis Charter Commission is expected to approve proposed ward and park district maps at 4:00pm on 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, March 10.

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