Category Archives: Annual Meeting

2023 Board Election

Board Election Results

Thanks to everyone who voted in the 2023 Armatage Board Election and congratulations to our seven newly-elected board members:

  • Eli Johnson (continuing)
  • Ethan Komoroski (continuing)
  • Holly Stallons (new)
  • Laura Studer (new)
  • Ryan Tvenge (new)
  • Judy Vecere (continuing)
  • Charlie Wolfe (continuing)

We’re so grateful to have Eli, Ethan, Judy and Charlie continue their fantastic contributions on the ANA Board and to welcome Holly, Laura and Ryan as new board members!


Vote in the Board Election: May 13–16

  • Vote in person: voting kicks off in-person on Sat, May 13 from 9am–12pm at Springtime in Armatage! You’ll also be able to vote at the beginning of the Annual Meeting on May 16.
  • Vote online:  voting runs online from Sat, May 13 at 9am through Tue, May 16 at 7:30pm. Look for the voting link on this page and at armatage.org.

If you need assistance voting, please call us at 612-466-0296 – we’re happy to help. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated business and institutional representatives are eligible to vote in the election and help select the next ANA Board.


Annual Meeting: Tues, May 16 • 6:30pm

Join your neighbors for free pizza, a great talk from the folks at House Novel (if Zillow and ancestry.com had a baby, it would be housenovel.com) and Q & A with Council Vice President Palmisano!

Vote in the Board Election, hear what your neighborhood has been up to, and share a free meal with neighbors at the Armatage Community Center. Email anacoordinator@armatage.org with dietary restrictions.


Join the ANA Board

One of the best ways to support our small but mighty neighborhood organization is to serve on the ANA Board!  Please consider joining this fabulous group of volunteers who live all over Armatage and get together on the third Tuesday of the month to advocate on behalf of the neighborhood, meet with city and other government officials, and guide ANA programs and events.

Click below to sign up by Sat, May 13 at 12pm or find us at the Springtime in Armatage event on May 13 to sign up in person. Members of underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to join.

May 17, 2022 Minutes

ANA Meeting Minutes: 2022 Annual Meeting

5/17/22 / 6:30 PM / Armatage Park

BOARD ATTENDEES

Eli Johnson, Ethan Komoroski, Sharla McIntosh-Ziegler, Kevin Ross, Charlie Wolfe

NOT IN ATTENDANCE: Samantha Bild, Vikisha Goberdhan, Janhel Leandre, Judy Vecere, Nikki Lindberg

OTHER ATTENDEES

Lauren Anderson (Coordinator), Jordan Nelson (Armatage Park Director), Dennis Houle (neighbor), Julie Gramentz (Unwind Within and neighbor), Marion Greene (Hennepin County Commissioner D3), Cathy Abene (Parks Commissioner D6), Kevin Brown (neighbor), Tara Brown (Green Team member, neighbor), Linea Palmisano (W13 council member, council VP)

THE MEETING

This is our 2022 Annual Meeting. Updated financials were sent via email.

6:30    Welcome and Introductions (Kevin Ross)

6:35    Updates from Elected Representatives

  • State Representative Jamie Long
    • Had to testify at the legislature, could not attend
  • Parks Commissioner Cathy Abene
    • Natural resource-forward agenda
    • Youth-focused funds from the last board are under lock and key, developing plans for deploying those investments and other 4 year outlooks now.
    • Chris DesRoches, MPRB, is managing the trails and sport courts from a “surface treatment” perspective.
  • County Commissioner Marion Greene
    • Bread and butter work is human services, roads and bridges, transportation, library,
    • Housing: affordability crisis is happening. During early stages of the pandemic, Hennepin County purchased a number of hotels to house folks. Now converting them to Single Room Occupancy. There’s a social worker on staff and other support services on site.
    • Economic Development: supporting small businesses, creating networking opportunities for folks in their job training program (Pathway program links them directly to county jobs)
    • Climate: final version of Hennepin County Climate Action Plan voted on in about the last year. Writing up a Zero Waste Plan for the county
    • Redistricting: Armatage will no longer be in Commissioner Greene’s district. We’re getting absorbed by Debbie Goetell’s district. Now 4 commissioners have Minneapolis in their district, which she views as a sweet opportunity.
  • City Council Vice President Linea Palmisano
    • Future of public safety, future police chief public hearings recently.
    • Gov’t restructuring committee: legislative and executive.
    • BIHZ Committee confirmed Community Planning and Economic Development director Andrea Brennan and Regulatory Services director Saray Garnett-Hochuli
    • Tree planting initiative. 200k trees for $1 million. Carbon credit offset program is starting with this effort, not much detail but sounds neat.

7:05    Growing Together: Stress Management & Relaxation Techniques with Julie Gramentz, Unwind Within

  • Julie walked us through some movements that we should use once per hour during our day to keep us from stiffening into hunched over sculptures. This included neck mobility, posture practice, back stretches, and breathing exercises.
  • She gave us a “sniffer”: a saturated wick of her proprietary (you’ll have to ask her) Breathe essential oil mix. It truly was refreshing.

7:35    Neighborhood Updates & Board Election Information

  • Green Team
    • Continued/Ongoing efforts: Spring and Fall neighborhood cleanups, Zero Waste stewards at events, raingarden program
    • Regenerative farming, soil health education series in March
    • Applied for and received $30k in grants to increase the scope of the raingarden program to include more equity. Also can set $10k of that money towards a natural vegetation barrier/pollinator garden at the Tot Lot.
  • Community Engagement
    • Past year
      • Spring Tea and Blooms
      • Summer Food Truck Night
      • Halloween and Holiday Light Tours
    • Upcoming
      • Summer Food Truck Festival
      • Home Maintenance Fair
  • Safety, Equity, and Outreach
    • Past year
      • Meet Your Community Helpers Event
      • Jim Crown of the North screening
      • Safety Campaign
      • Tech Help for Seniors
    • Upcoming
      • Movie in the Park
      • Renter pop up event
  • Board Election
    • New candidates close at 9PM on 5/17. Voting thru 5/24
    • 3 candidates running for the 5 open seats
      • Nikki Lindberg
      • Sharla McIntosh Ziegler
      • Kevin Ross

7:45    New Business/Closing

Meeting adjourned at 7:46

UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS

  • Jun 2 – Community Engagement Committee (6:00-7:00pm, Outdoors at Armatage Park)
  • Jun 7 – Safety, Equity & Outreach Committee (6:00-7:00pm, Outdoors at Armatage Park)
  • Jun 9 – Green Team Meeting (7:00-8:30pm, GT Member Backyard TBD)
  • Jun 10 – Summer Movie in the Park: Back to the Future (8:50pm, Armatage Park)
  • Jun 11 – Garden Evolution FREE Workshop (10:00-11:30am, Armatage Community Center)
  • Jun 21 – Monthly Meeting (6:30-8:30pm, Outdoors at Armatage Park)

May 19, 2022 eNews

Voting is Open for the Armatage Board Election

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

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


Garden Evolution Workshop

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

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

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


Movie in the Park: Back to the Future

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

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


Community Connections Conference Saturday

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

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


Home Help MN

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


Pet Fest Thanks!

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

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


Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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

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

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


New Electric Carshare Program

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

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


Image shows a rain garden in a residential front yard with dappled sunshine coming through the trees and the light brick and tan siding of the home's exterior visible in the background.

Rain Garden Program Info Coming Soon

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

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


Fulton & Kingfield Farmers Markets Open This Weekend

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


City Recommends Wearing Masks Indoors

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

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


COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing

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

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


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.

May 13, 2022 eNews

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"

Armatage Pet Fest Tomorrow!

Bring your furry, feathered or scaled friends to Armatage Park for our first-ever Pet Fest TOMORROW (Saturday, May 14) from 2:00-4:00pm! All are welcome, whether you have a pet to bring or not.

  • Meet adorable rescue puppies!
  • Promenade in the parade (line-up at 2:15pm)
  • Enter to win Best Dressed, Looks Most Like Owner or Goofiest Look for fabulous prizes donated by Zeroish, Woof Central and Sparrow Cafe (contest at 3:00pm!
  • Visit a pet chiropractor, get a caricature, get nail clips, see an obedience demo with True Loyalty, grab human treats from Sparrow Cafe and more!
  • Bring food, cat litter and gently used supplies to the event for People & Pets Together. Prescription food and open bags are accepted – see the full list here.

Learn more and preregister for the contest or parade at armatage.org/petfest Hosted by the Armatage Community Engagement Committee.


Saturday Morning Garden Tool Swap

The citywide Garden Tool Swap happens tomorrow (Saturday, May 14) from 9:00am – 12:00pm at Armatage Park!  Bring unused yard tools, planting equipment and gardening items or pick up new supplies. You do not need to bring items to the event in order to take items home with you. Learn more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/garden-tool-swap


Armatage Annual Meeting: Growing Together

The Armatage Annual Meeting is this Tuesday at 6:30pm and we hope you’ll attend! Find us next to the playground so kids can play while parents attend. In case of rain, we’ll meet indoors & masked at the Armatage Community Center.

Annual Meeting Agenda

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Updates from Elected Representatives (6:35pm)
    • State Representative Jamie Long
    • County Commissioner Marion Greene
    • Council Vice President Linea Palmisano
  • Growing Together: Stress Management & Relaxation Techniques with Julie Gramentz, Unwind Within (7:05pm)
  • Neighborhood Updates & Board Election Information (7:35pm)
  • Green Team
  • Community Engagement
  • Safety, Equity & Outreach
  • Board Election
  • Closing (7:55pm)

Get Ready for the Armatage Board Election!

Run for Board: step up as a leader in your community and run for the ANA Board! Meetings are held the third Tuesday 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. Register to run by Tuesday, May 17 at 9:00pm at https://armatage.org/2022boardelection/

Vote

Online voting will be open from Wednesday, May 18 at 9:00am through Wednesday, May 25 at 9:00pm at armatage.org. We’ll publish a candidate guide when voting opens so you can learn about the folks running for the Board and vote online. Even in an uncontested election, it’s still important to weigh in. Thanks in advance for making your voice heard!


Home Help MN

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


Neighborhood Block Party

Calling all neighbors – there’s yet another fun activity happening on May 14! Logan Ave resident and local realtor, Christo Lane, is hosting a neighborhood-wide block party on the 5700 block of Logan Ave this Saturday, May 14 from 12:00–4:00pm! This event is open to all neighbors. Learn more at www.facebook.com/events/1579863332384634

(Have a free neighborhood opportunity you’d like us to share? Send us an email at anacoordinator@armatage.org)


Community Connections Conference: Forward Together

Register now for an exciting day of learning, connecting and community conversation. The City’s free Community Connections Conference on May 21 from 9:00am – 3:00pm connects residents of Minneapolis, community groups, neighborhoods and local government. This year’s conference theme is “forward together,” welcoming all communities to reconnect with the City and get involved in moving Minneapolis forward. Register on the City website.The City is seeking volunteers for the conference. You can help welcome guests, guide people to community conversation sessions or keep lunch services running smoothly. Bilingual volunteers are especially helpful. Sign up to volunteer.Ride the bus or METRO light rail free to the Community Connections Conference May 21 courtesy of Metro Transit. Download your pass from Metro Transit.


Image shows a rain garden in a residential front yard with dappled sunshine coming through the trees and the light brick and tan siding of the home's exterior visible in the background.

Rain Garden Program Info Coming Soon!

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

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


Support the 2022 Armatage Art Show

Please consider supporting Armatage Elementary School by making a donation to the Art Show’s silent auction on May 19. Your donation will be recognized onsite the night of the event. To donate, please print and 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!


Fulton & Kingfield Farmers Markets Open Soon

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


City Recommends Wearing Masks Indoors

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

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


COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing

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: 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.

2022 Annual Meeting & Board Election

Board Election Results

Thank you to everyone who voted in this year’s Armatage Online Board Election! The results are in and congratulations to our newly-elected 2022-2024 Armatage Board Members:

  • Nikki Lindberg
  • Sharla McIntosh-Ziegler
  • Kevin Ross

We do still have a couple open seats so email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org if you’re interested in learning more.


Vote in the Online Board Election

Online voting runs from Wed, May 18 through Wed, May 25 at 9:00pm. Election results will be announced here and on social media on Thurs, May 26.

There are three (3) candidates running for five (5) open seats on ANA Board of Directors this year. Even in an uncontested election, it’s important to weigh in so THANK YOU for voting!  You’ll also have the chance to nominate write-in candidates.

Voter Guide: learn more about the candidates here. 

Click here to vote in the Board Election.

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


Annual Meeting: Grow Together

Tues, May 17 | 6:30pm
Armatage Park

Join your neighbors for this year’s Annual Meeting outside the front door of the Armatage Community Center! 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 West 54th Street!

We’ll be set up next to the playground so adults can attend while kids play. In case of rain, updated meeting information will be shared here and on social media the day of the event.

May 17, 2022 Agenda – Annual Meeting

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Updates from Elected Representatives (6:35pm)
    • State Representative Jamie Long
    • County Commissioner Marion Greene
    • Council Vice President Linea Palmisano
  • Growing Together: Stress Management & Relaxation Techniques with Julie Gramentz, Unwind Within (7:05pm)
  • Neighborhood Updates & Board Election Information (7:35pm)
    • Green Team
    • Community Engagement
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Board Election
  • Closing (7:55pm)

May 18, 2021 Minutes

ANA Meeting Minutes

Annual Meeting 5/19/21 / 6:30 PM / ZOOM 

BOARD ATTENDEES

Samantha Bild, Adriana Dobrzycka, Joel Federer, Vikisha Goberdhan, Ethan Komoroski, Nikki Lindberg, Sharla McIntosh-Ziegler, Donté Mearon, Kevin Ross, Judy Vecere
NOT IN ATTENDANCE: Janhel Leandre

OTHER ATTENDEES

Lauren Anderson (Coordinator), Rachel Ireland-Henry (Accountant), Jordan Nelson (Armatage/Kenny Park Director), Linea Palmisano (City Council Member), Marion Greene (Hennepin County Commissioner), Jaime Long (District 61B State Representative), Kevin Brown, Tara Brown, Tara Carson, Charlotte Crabtree, Colleen H., Anne Hacker, Jennifer, Eli Johnson, Eric Magnuson (AREA), Mike, Veronica Soria Miller (AREA), Aryca Myers (NCR Neighborhood Specialist), Kristi Palmsten, Linda Ridlehuber, Jay Schiltz, Stephanie Vigen

AGENDA

April meeting minutes approved via email. Updated financials were sent via email.

6:30    Welcome and Introductions

6:40    Connect with Elected Representatives

  • Council Member Linea Palmisano (Linea.Palmisano@minneapolismn.gov)
    • As part of the Vision Zero initiative, the city reduced speed limits on most street throughout the City. “20 is Plenty” signs are available near the City Works facility at 60th and Harriet or on Linea’s back deck (email her).
    • A tree levy is set to expire at the end of the year. This levy helped fund a full-time arbor crew to help rebuild the city’s tree canopy destroyed by Emerald Ash Borer. However, there are still many areas that are in need of trees, especially the areas of north Minneapolis hit by the tornado in 2011. The city is looking at ways to continue to address this need including through a carbon credit program (Star Tribune article). She hopes a future program can expand beyond boulevards and park lands, and be able to help with issues related to environmental justice, heat islands, etc. [Comment made about a pilot program in the city of Edina that was successful on this topic. Someone also mentioned carbon offset programs in Dakota County and St. Paul as potential resources.]
    • Linea strongly condemned the recent incidents of hate speech in Armatage. She has spoken with the resident, and they filed a police report, and the incidents are under investigation. It is Linea’s hope that we can use any learnings to better inform city conversations around hate speech (reporting and response).
    • $271 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) will be allocated to Minneapolis. The city plans to quickly distribute $40-50 million to existing programs. Public input will be involved in the allocation of the remaining funds. Ideas/suggestions can be sent to Linea’s office (email above).
    • Concern raised regarding the degrading asphalt around some of the USI ground vaults, in particular one at 54th and Penn, and its impact on accessibility and pedestrian safety. Report specific incidents to her office or via 311.
  • County Commissioner Marion Greene (marion.greene@hennepin.us, 612-348-7883. District Aide Laura Hoffman, laura.hoffman@hennepin.us, 612-348-0963)
    • The county is engaged on several fronts to address issues around homelessness. Street Voices of Change and Align Minneapolis are a couple of the local organizations they partner with in addressing this issue. In the past year, funding for such programs has increased to support increased staff, 24-hour shelter operation, increased outreach, more robust case management, additional meal support, culturally specific shelters, etc. More than 2,100 people have left shelters in the past 12 months for homes, and more than 120 of those people were considered chronically homeless. They currently have 140 fewer children in shelters this year. All signs that 2021 should continue to see improvements over the devastating impacts of Covid-19 and homelessness in 2020. The county recently purchased the Metro Inn (56th & Lyndale) to be used as a shelter, and the program has been going very well.
    • She stressed that if you are facing housing instability, mental health concerns, etc. it is easier to help people at the beginning of challenges, so please do not hesitate to reach out to her office for support.
    • Hennepin County Climate Action Plan: 1) driven by priority of reducing disparities and addressing environmental justice; 2) updated goals to reach net-zero emissions by 2050; 3) as a densely populated county, we have an added responsibility to address these issues in support of state-wide goals and reduce by 20% vehicle miles traveled; and  4) prioritize transit, pedestrian and bicycle routes, many that use county streets. They are in the process of hiring a new director for this department. After that time, she hopes to have better answers to questions raised regarding the county initiatives around expanding solar and wind and how, as a neighborhood, we can best engage around and support these efforts. She also envisions a webpage where metrics and updates will be posted to help people track action and ensure accountability to the climate action plan.
  • State Representative Jamie Long
    • The legislature is still in budget negotiations (originally scheduled to be completed yesterday). The hard deadline is the end of June, but hope to reach agreements yet this week.
    • Currently, the proposed budget includes lots of funding for education and student support (targeted toward losses due to Covid-19); healthcare; and expanding broadband access. Minneapolis is expected to receive funding to promote investment in areas damaged during the unrest in 2020. Funding for police accountability at the state level is also included in the current proposal.
    • Jamie, a member of the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Finance and Policy Committee, sponsored a bill to establish “sign and release warrants” prompted by the deadly traffic stop of Daunte Wright.
    • Jamie, Chair of the Climate and Energy Finance and Policy Committee, passed the cost-effective energy improvements bill that increases goals and expands programs, including support for low-income residents, further solar installations at schools, solar rewards programs, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, rebate program, etc.
    • Governor Walz extended the peacetime emergency to continue supporting statewide testing programs as well as efficient and equitable distribution of vaccines. The governor also ended the statewide mask requirement, as per new CDC guidance.

7:15    AREA (Armatage Reparations & Equity Action) – Eric Magnuson and Veronica Soria Miller 

  • Mapping Prejudice (www.mappingprejudice.umn.edu) project reveals homes with racial covenants. Made unenforceable in 1961, these covenants have stayed on people’s homes and were largely forgotten. More than 8,000 homes were mapped in Hennepin County, and work has begun in Ramsey County.
  • Armatage and Kenny neighborhoods
  • Our heavily segregated city is a direct result of these covenants. Our city has a 60% white population, while covenant neighborhoods are typically 80-90% white. By pushing BIPOC families into redlined neighborhoods, they were systematically denied the ability to build equity through homeownership. Segregated cities also create other problems, including increased police violence towards BIPOC communities (BU study), health disparities, education gaps, etc.
  • While we didn’t ask for these covenants to be on our homes, simply by living here, we have inherited and received benefits from their existence. The AREA group sees the renunciation of these covenants as the first step of reparations for systemic racism through acknowledgment. (Strib article about AREA)
  • In 2019 State Rep. Jim Davnie helped pass a bill to make it easier to remove these covenants, and more cities and states across the nation are picking up this cause as a part of broader discussions and actions around reparations.
  • The language of these covenants will always remain in the historical record, as well as the date the language is removed. It is your personal decision to request its removal, and the project, Just Deeds (www.justdeeds.org) makes it easy to do just that. Their volunteers will help you, and they currently have over 1,000 applicants (so you may need to be patient). If you are in the Pennhurst development, AREA has the information to make it even easier. Veronica is willing to help, too, if you have questions (vsoria@gmail.com).
  • If you renounce, you can request a yard sign (send requests to kscottelden@gmail.com) to help increase awareness. Plus, please share on social media. AREA has distributed flyers to homes in the Pennhurst area and has considered doing more flyering. A comment was made to mail postcards to specific addresses to raise awareness.
  • In support of the second step in reparations, redress, AREA is supporting a national bill, H.R.40 – Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act. Tina Smith has signed on as a co-sponsor along with 185 members of the House. AREA is currently working to get Angie Craig to also co-sponsor, and are asking for support through her constituents.
  • AREA is also looking at ways to support reparations through giving opportunities, fundraisers, supporting black-owned businesses, partnering with the City of Lakes Land Trust, etc.
  • The impact of these covenants was highlighted through the story of a family from 1982 who moved to Armatage and found the language, although unenforceable, personally hurtful as a Jewish family. They attempted then to remove the language but were faced with bureaucracy and prohibitive costs. After 58 years since being made unenforceable, and the new homeowners had the language removed. The family from 1982 had always carried the hurt of that language with them and were thrilled to know that it has finally happened. It is more than a symbolic gesture to remove these covenants, but a true community action towards righting wrongs, and showing that Armatage is a community for all today and always.

7:35    Neighborhood Update

  • ANA Highlights from the past year
    • Halloween and holiday tours — self-guided; open to all; online voting, with prizes to top 3 vote-getters
    • Welcome Bags relaunched — Kevin and Ethan have been delivering these to new homeowners and renters. With many people working from home it has been fun connecting with our new neighbors. Expect with the hot housing market, we will need more volunteers to help deliver bags. Also looking for more info or swag from local businesses to include. Eli volunteered to help.
  • Neighborhood Funding Update
    • Received an increase to $25,000 for 2021 (over 160 Armatage residents responded, and helped us get this additional funding)
    • 2022 and beyond funding is uncertain, but the ANA will keep residents notified
  • Committees — are open to all and encourage involvement at any level
    • NEW Community Engagement Committee (meets first Thursday of the month at 5:30pm via Zoom) / Chair, Sharla
      • Its mission is to create meaningful opportunities for our community through events, activities, and programs
      • Events from the past year: Sweet Treats in the Park (Aug 2020), Fall Food Truck Night (Oct 2020), Spring Tea & Blooms (May 2021)
      • Upcoming events: Summer Food Truck Night (Aug 2021)
    • Green Team (meets second Thursday of the month  at 7pm via Zoom or outside location TBD) Co-Chair, Ethan
      • Its mission is to nurture a just, climate-resilient future for the Armatage community through accessible action, education, and advocacy opportunities
      • Events from the past year: Neighborhood Clean-ups (Oct 2020, April 2021), Rain & Native Garden Program, Incentive Programs (Native Plant Rebates, Adopt-a-Drain), Zero-waste Monitoring at Events, Education (Organics workshops, Let’s Talk about Plastics series, Solar workshop)
      • Advocacy/Awareness events: Reading circle, All We Can Save has helped activate us to think about how we can act as a community ie) opposition to Hiawatha Expansion Project
      • Member of Minneapolis Citywide Green Teams (great for ideas and networking)
    • NEW Safety Equity and Outreach (meets first Saturday of the month at 10am zoom or near kiddie pool at the park) Co-chairs, Sam & Nikki
      • Formed to address gaps in our community work and includes public safety, mental health, community relationships (police and others), and how we can support our community members who need it most
      • Recent projects: Social media best practices campaign; Safety and trial info hub; Incentive program (Safety Rebates)
      • Upcoming events: Community walk (June 19, 2021), Meet Your Community Helpers (Sept 2021), Community Anti-racism Discussion (Fall 2021)
        • Will have All Are Welcome Here signs available for purchase at the June event (and while supplies last)
    • Mini-Grants Committee (paused) Co-chairs, Adriana & Stephanie
      • Covid made it hard to implement this programming, and they want to re-imagine the program come Fall 2021. Watch for info in our communications
      • Originally designed to support projects that directly benefit the neighborhood
  • The ANA’s future funding is declining, and we are unsure of how long we can sustain operation without the city support. Currently, we operate at about $30k/year, and the city cuts will drop to $15k. We are a 501(c)3 and rely on donations, city funding, volunteers, and one part-time paid staff.
  • As Covid restrictions ease, we will look at options for returning to in-person meetings, perhaps outside this summer at the park. The ANA meetings are always open to all and are held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 6:30pm.

7:55    Election Results

  • Re-elected
    • Joel H. Federer
    • Vikisha Goberdhan
    • Ethan Komoroski
    • Janhel Leandre
    • Judy Vecere
  • Newly elected
    • Eli Johnson

8:00    Door Prize Drawing

  • 6 attendees names were drawn and awarded a $25 gift card from an Armatage business

Meeting adjourned at 8:12

UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS

  • Jun 3 – Community Engagement Committee (5:30-6:30pm, Zoom)
  • Jun 3 – Reading Circle Meeting #5 (7:00-8:30pm, Zoom)
  • Jun 5 – Safety, Equity & Outreach Meeting (10:00-11:00am, Armatage Park Play Area with masks on) Jun 10 – Green Team Meeting (7:00-8:15pm, Outdoors – email anacoordinator@armatage.org for address) Jun 15 – Monthly Meeting & Safety Update (6:30-8:30pm, Zoom)

May 28, 2021 eNews

Get Your All Are Welcome Here Lawn Sign

The ANA is organizing an All Are Welcome Here lawn sign campaign!  Get your lawn sign and proudly display it in your yard!  This is a way to show up and support our BIPOC neighbors after racist messages appeared in the neighborhood earlier this spring. Our goal is to create a sea of signs throughout the neighborhood to show that All Are Welcome in Armatage.

Signs are $20 each and by ordering through the ANA, you’ll also help us continue serving our community. Order your sign at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ or find us at an upcoming in-person sale date – see the full list here.  Huge thanks to All Are Welcome Here for helping us organize this campaign!  To learn more, visit armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/


Ferris Bueller’s Day Off at Armatage Park

Saturday, June 12 | dusk

Join the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board and the Armatage Neighborhood Association for Ferris Bueller’s Day Off at Armatage Park on Saturday, June 12! The sun sets at 9:00pm and the movie will start at dusk. Bring your blanket, bug spray and plan to distance to keep yourself and neighbors safe. See the full list of Minneapolis Music & Movies at www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/music__movies/


Armatage Playground Construction Starts June 2

The Armatage Park Play Area construction is scheduled to start next Wednesday, June 2. Crews will begin by fencing off the play area and removing existing play equipment. The new play area should be completed and ready for use around July 12-16. While the playground is under construction, we encourage neighbors to enjoy the Washburn Tot Lot playground at 5825 Washburn Ave S or, outside of school hours, to use the Armatage school playground. Sign up for project updates at bit.ly/armatagepark

Save the date for the Armatage Monthly Meeting on June 15 from 6:30-8:30pm, outdoors at Armatage Park, when Project Designer Francisca Pass will be sharing a construction update and the ANA will discuss contributing neighborhood funds to the project.


Get Involved on a Neighborhood Committee

There are lots of ways to get involved in the neighborhood and with weather warming up, now is a perfect time to join an Armatage Committee! Neighbors are encouraged to check out a meeting or sign up for a committee’s e-list. Register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs and here’s what each group is working on:

  • Community Engagement meets on Thursday, June 3 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom to get ready for the Summer Movie in the Park and plan our next Food Truck Night in August.
  • Safety, Equity & Outreach meets on Saturday, June 5 from 10:00-11:00am outside at Armatage Park to discuss our neighborhood’s relationship with MPD, the All Are Welcome Here lawn sign campaign, and plan a Meet Your Community Helpers event for the fall.
  • The Green Team meets on Thursday, June 10 from 7:00-8:30pm outside in one of our members’ backyards to plan a great summer of environmental advocacy and programs. Register to attend and get our meeting address.

Armatage Safety Rebates

Did you know that the ANA offers $100 per household per calendar year to each Armatage household (both renters and homeowners) for security enhancements including items such as doorbell camera systems?

Learn more and apply for a rebate at armatage.org/security-rebate-program-for-residents/


Annual Meeting & Board Election Thank You!

Huge thanks to everyone who voted in the Board Election or attended the Annual Meeting last week!

Congratulations to our newly elected board member Eli Johnson and to re-elected board members Joel Federer, Vikisha Goberdhan, Ethan Komoroski, Janhel Leandre and Judy Vecere!


Free Business Advertising in Armatage Welcome Bags

Are you a neighborhood business that would like to advertise for FREE? Consider providing content for our Welcome Bags that are delivered to all new neighbors in Armatage! The reusable bags contain useful information on our neighborhood, community involvement, area businesses and local government. Your contribution can include menus, brochures on your business, gift cards, coupons, branded trinkets, or even just business cards!

Businesses in and around the Armatage neighborhood are welcome to donate and excluding the cost of producing your item, it’s free to contribute. You can also consider a tax deductible cash contribution to our non-profit organization to help support the cost of producing the bags. Learn more about the Welcome Bag program at armatage.org/programs/welcome-bags/


Minneapolis Mask Requirement is Still in Place

Mayor Jacob Frey has kept Minneapolis’ mask requirement in place pending review of public health data and local vaccination rates. Private businesses, public transportation and other settings also have face covering requirements including Minnesota’s Safe Learning Plan, which stays in effect requiring masks in schools through the end of the school year.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced May 13 that people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can start doing many things they had stopped doing because of the pandemic. Gov. Walz has lifted Minnesota’s mask requirement while still strongly recommending Minnesotans who are not fully vaccinated wear face coverings indoors. These are still subject to local restrictions. Learn more here.


Minnesota Rent Help

RentHelpMN was created to help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on their rent or utility bills or fear that could happen. If you find yourself in this position, RentHelpMN is here to help. Eligible renters can receive assistance with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance.

Find out if you qualify and apply at renthelpmn.org or by calling 211, which has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions from 8:00am until 8:00pm, Monday through Saturday.


Minnesota Vaccine Connector

With COVID-19 vaccines now approved for young people 12 to 15 years old, sign up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector and get updates on vaccine opportunities in our area in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong. Getting vaccinated helps all of us get back to what we’ve missed sooner and safely.

Do your part now by continuing to help slow the spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask, wash your hands often, stay 6 feet away from anyone you don’t live with, and stay home if you are sick. Doing all of these things will help keep people healthy until all Minnesotans have the opportunity to get vaccinated.

May 18, 2021 eNews

Armatage Annual Meeting Tonight!

Tuesday, May 18
6:30-8:00pm | Zoom

Join your neighbors TONIGHT for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting! There’s still time to register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

Why Attend the Annual Meeting?

Great question!  By attending on Zoom, you’ll be able to…

  • Hear how the leaders of Armatage Reparations & Equity Action (pictured above) are helping more neighbors renounce racial housing covenants on their homes.
  • Connect with State Representative Jamie Long, City Council Member Linea Palmisano and County Commissioner Marion Greene.
  • Enter to win one of six $25 gift cards to Armatage businesses including Cafe Ceres, Red Wagon, and more (must be present to win).
  • Vote in the Board Election and hear results,
  • Learn what your neighborhood has been doing for the community and what we’ve got planned for the rest of the year!

Register to attend at bit.ly/ANAmtgs and see the agenda at https://armatage.org/2021boardelection/


Voting Open for the Board Election

Today is your last chance to help select the next Armatage Neighborhood Association Board! Learn about the candidates running and vote online at armatage.org/2021boardelection/

Voting runs through tonight (May 18) at 7:00pm. Election results will be announced live at the Armatage Annual Meeting tonight (see above to sign up!). All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated representatives of a neighborhood business/institution are eligible to vote. Click here to learn about the candidates and cast your vote!


Support Your Neighborhood

The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and engaging our community. Donations drive our work. Support the neighborhood through GiveMN here.

With funding from the City of Minneapolis to drop significantly next year, even a $5 donation makes a difference! Thank you for your support.


Minnesota Rent Help

RentHelpMN was created to help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on their rent or utility bills or fear that could happen. If you find yourself in this position, RentHelpMN is here to help. Eligible renters can receive assistance with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance.

Find out if you qualify and apply at renthelpmn.org or by calling 211, which has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions from 8:00am until 8:00pm, Monday through Saturday.


Minnesota Vaccine Connector

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is now approved for young people 12 to 15 years old!  Getting vaccinated helps all of us get back to what we’ve missed sooner and safely.  Signing up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector lets you get updates on vaccine opportunities in our area in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong.

Do your part now by continuing to help slow the spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask, wash your hands often, stay 6 feet away from anyone you don’t live with, and stay home if you are sick. Doing all of these things will help keep people healthy until all Minnesotans have the opportunity to get vaccinated.

May 13, 2021 eNews

Armatage Annual Meeting

Tuesday, May 18
6:30-8:00pm | Zoom

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting! Register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs to attend.

Why attend the Annual Meeting? GREAT question! You will be able to hear from the leaders of Armatage Reparations & Equity Action, connect with State Representative Jamie Long, City Council Member Linea Palmisano and County Commissioner Marion Greene, enter to win one of six $25 gift cards to Armatage businesses (must be present to win), hear Board Election results, and learn what the ANA is doing for our community.

See below on how to vote in the Board Election through May 18!


Voting Open for the Board Election

Help elect the next Armatage Neighborhood Association Board by voting at armatage.org/2021boardelection/We have six fantastic candidates running this month.

Voting opened May 11 and runs through May 18 at 7:00pm. Election results will be announced at the Armatage Annual Meeting on May 18 (see above to sign up!). All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated representatives of a neighborhood business/institution are eligible to vote. Click here to learn about the candidates and cast your vote!


Spring Tea & Blooms Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who attended our Spring Tea & Blooms event this past weekend!  We had a blast handing out take-home planting kits, giving away cookies donated by Café Cerés and free books from Jump! at 54th & Penn, and seeing neighbors after a long winter. Thanks to Jinx Tea and Sparrow Café for being part of the event and an especially huge thank you to our Community Engagement volunteer team!


Support Your Neighborhood

The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and engaging our community. Donations drive our work. Support the neighborhood through GiveMN here.

With funding from the City of Minneapolis to drop significantly next year, even a $5 donation makes a difference! Thank you for your support.


Minnesota Rent Help

RentHelpMN was created to help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on their rent or utility bills or fear that could happen. If you find yourself in this position, RentHelpMN is here to help. Eligible renters can receive assistance with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance.

Find out if you qualify and apply at renthelpmn.org or by calling 211, which has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions from 8:00am until 8:00pm, Monday through Saturday.


Minnesota Vaccine Connector

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is now approved for young people 12 to 15 years old!  Getting vaccinated helps all of us get back to what we’ve missed sooner and safely.  Signing up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector lets you get updates on vaccine opportunities in our area in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong.

Do your part now by continuing to help slow the spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask, wash your hands often, stay 6 feet away from anyone you don’t live with, and stay home if you are sick. Doing all of these things will help keep people healthy until all Minnesotans have the opportunity to get vaccinated.


Armatage Welcome Bags

Have you or neighbors on your block recently moved to Armatage? If so, we want to bring you 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) 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 new tenants, please reach out to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and let us know where we can drop off a Welcome Bag!

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

Neighbors are encouraged to join an Armatage Committee and get involved. Currently, meetings are held on Zoom or outdoors and distanced. Click on each group’s link below to learn more. Register to attend a meeting at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • The Green Team meets tonight (Thursday, May 13) from 7:00-8:15pm on Zoom.
  • Community Engagement next meets Thursday, June 3 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom.
  • Safety, Equity & Outreach next meets Saturday, June 5 from 10:00-11:00am at Armatage Park (see more above). Kids welcome and plan to wear a mask.

Changes to COVID-19 Restrictions

Read about the state’s changing COVID-19 restrictions at https://mn.gov/covid19/stay-safe/overview/index.jsp

May 6, 2021 eNews

Spring Tea & Blooms this Saturday!

Saturday, May 8
2:00-4:00pm | Armatage Park

Grab your mask and join us for Spring Tea & Blooms at Armatage Park this Saturday from 2:00-4:00pm! Jinx Tea and Sparrow Café will take orders outside, new neighborhood business Café Cerés will share samples, and the ANA will give away take-home kids’ planting kits (supplies are limited). Pick up a free book donated by Jump! at 54th & Penn and complete a scavenger hunt and enter to win a gift card to a neighborhood business!

Thank you for following our safety guidelines by wearing a mask during the event, keeping 6 feet of distance from everyone outside of your household, and bringing your treats home or into the park to enjoy. The weather looks great but in case of severe weather, cancellations will be posted on Facebook, Nextdoor, and Twitter.


Register to Run for the ANA Board by this Sunday

Please consider running for the Armatage Neighborhood Association’s Board of Directors through our annual Board Election this May. Board members have a critical role in shaping our neighborhood nonprofit for years to come and it’s a great way to get involved and give back.

Members of underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to run for the board, including renters, seniors, residents with disabilities, and residents who identify as LGBTQ or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color).

Learn more about what’s involved, the time commitment, and register to run by Sunday, May 9 at 11:59pm at https://armatage.org/2021boardelection/


Support the Armatage Neighborhood Association

The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and engaging our community. Donations drive our work. Support the neighborhood through GiveMN here.

HUGE thanks to GiveMN for hosting Spring Forward MN this May so we can give generously to help nonprofits and schools across Minnesota spring forward into what comes next for them—whether that’s continuing to help our neighbors through this crisis or working to reopen their doors. There are so many organizations to support – visit www.givemn.org to learn more.


Register for the Armatage Annual Meeting

Tuesday, May 18
6:30-8:00pm | Zoom

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting! Register at https://bit.ly/ANAmtgs to attend.

At the Annual Meeting, you will hear from the leaders of Armatage Reparations & Equity Action, connect with State Representative Jamie Long, City Council Member Linea Palmisano and County Commissioner Marion Greene, enter to win one of six $25 gift cards to a local business (must be present to win), hear board election results, and learn what the ANA is doing for our community.

Online Board Election: May 11-18

Make your voice heard and vote in the Online Board Election from May 11 through May 18 at 7:30pm. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated business/institutional representatives are able to vote in the election through an online form that will be posted at armatage.org on May 11. Please see above for more details on running for election!


Garden Tool Swap: May 8

Saturday, May 8
11:00am-1:00pm | Various Locations

Spring is officially here! To celebrate many of us are turning towards our home and our green spaces. When cleaning out your storage, hang on to unused yard tools, gardening items, and plant-related equipment and bring them to the first ever city-wide Garden Tool Swap!  Our closest location is at Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park (4055 Nicollet Ave S). See items to bring, other swap locations and more details here.

The swap is hosted by Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling and community partners. ALL are welcome at the free event, whether you’re a first-time gardener or have a green thumb.

  • All items are intended to be given and taken freely. Garden tools and equipment are not for sale at this event.
  • Please be respectful of your neighbors. Take only what you need so everyone can participate.
  • Wear face coverings and maintain at least 6 feet distance from others.

Social Media – Pause Before You Post

Social media can be a great way to stay informed, but it’s important to consider whether the information you’re reading is from a trusted source and to pause before posting or sharing. Last Friday, a crime was reported as occurring in Armatage on a local Facebook group and on Nextdoor. When we followed up with the Minneapolis Police Department to learn more, we learned that the original incident hadn’t actually occurred in Armatage at all but was misreported and then shared widely.

You can do your part by seeking trusted sources for news and taking a moment to pause before sharing information on social media. Does your post or the post you’re sharing:

  1. Focus on behavior and how/why you think it is suspicious (which might change depending on the time of day)
  1. Provide a full description of the person/s involved, including clothing, as well as details about the location, vehicle, etc. to avoid over-generalizations

To help us all be both good neighbors and sharers of good information, the ANA will continue to compile safety resources through the August trials at https://armatage.org/trial/


Minnesota Rent Help

RentHelpMN was created to help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on their rent or utility bills or fear that could happen. If you find yourself in this position, RentHelpMN is here to help. Eligible renters can receive help with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance.

Find out if you qualify and apply at http://renthelpmn.org or by calling 211, which has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions from 8:00am until 8:00pm, Monday through Saturday.


Armatage Welcome Bags

Have you or someone on your block recently moved to Armatage? If so, we want to bring you 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) 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 new tenants, please reach out to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and let us know where we can drop off a Welcome Bag!

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

Neighbors are encouraged to join an Armatage Committee and get involved. Currently, most meetings are held on Zoom. Click on each group’s link below to learn more. Register to attend a meeting at https://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Community Engagement next meets tonight, Thursday, May 6, from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom.
  • The Green Team will next meet on Thursday, May 13 from 7:00-8:15pm on Zoom.
  • Safety, Equity & Outreach next meets Saturday, June 5 from 10:00-11:00am at Armatage Park (see more above). Kids welcome and plan to wear a mask.

Community Safety Workshops

Nonviolent Peaceforce is holding Community Safety Training Workshops on May 8 and May 22 from Saturday from 11:00am-5:00pm (optional breakfast will be provided for participants at 10:00am) located outdoors in the Little Earth Neighborhood (meet at Cedar Ave S & 24th St E, Minneapolis, MN 55404). All are welcome to register at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CommunitySafetyWorkshop Wear a mask and plan to distance. Seating and lunch provided.

The Community Safety Training Workshops focus on preparing individuals and communities for handling community safety concerns and situations. The learning objectives are rooted in Unarmed Civilian Protection (UCP) and aim to supply participants with skills for approaching safety concerns and providing a safe space for the community. Learn more at https://www.nonviolentpeaceforce.org/articles/940-cst