Category Archives: Board recruitment

April 29, 2021 eNews

April 26 Meeting Recap

The ANA held its rescheduled monthly meeting on April 26. Armatage Park Director Jordan Nelson shared updates on programming at the park and the Armatage Park Play Area reconstruction, which is scheduled to begin in early June and take 4-6 weeks. James Riley, a volunteer with Communities Against Police Brutality, shared information on a proposed change to state statue that if passed would modify response to mental health emergency calls statewide.

The board also finalized the agenda for the upcoming Armatage Annual Meeting on May 18, voted to send digital materials to the Hennepin County Library Archives, and approved a letter drafted by the Green Team in support of the proposed East Phillips Urban Farm. All are welcome to join an upcoming neighborhood meeting. Learn more and register to attend at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

Register to Run for the ANA Board by May 9

Please consider running for the Armatage Neighborhood Association’s Board of Directors this May! Board members have a critical role in shaping our neighborhood nonprofit for years to come. This year in particular has shown how critical strong, local communities are.

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/

Spring Tea & Blooms

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

Grab your mask and join us for Spring Tea & Blooms at Armatage Park! Jinx Tea and Sparrow Café will take orders outside, soon-to-open neighborhood spot 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. In case of severe weather, cancellations will be posted on Facebook, Nextdoor, and Twitter.

Safety, Equity & Outreach Meeting this Saturday

Saturday, May 1
10:00-11:00am | Armatage Park (outdoors, wear a mask)

Join the new Safety, Equity & Outreach Committee‘s outdoor meeting this Saturday, May 1 from 10:00-11:00am to discuss a wide range of topics including equity, public safety, our neighborhood’s relationship with police, and how the ANA can better reach out to community members who need it most.

Please meet near the pool at Armatage Park, wear a mask, and plan to distance. Kids welcome to join and play. In case of rain, we’ll meet on Zoom. Register at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

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 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, win a gift card to a local business, 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!

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.

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 – Think Before You Post

Social media can be a great way to stay informed, but we all know, especially in stressful times, messages can take a turn.

  • How would you feel if someone directed your statement at your child/parent/significant other/etc.?
  • Would you share this point-of-view at work/church/public meeting?
  • Would you say this comment in-person to the individual or group of people you are referring to?

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/

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!

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

911, 311 & New Minneapolis Tip Line

If you need assistance, there are a few different avenues to get help:

  • Call 911 for emergencies where someone’s safety is at risk that requires an immediate response from police, firefighters, or medics.
  • Call 612-673-5335 or text 847411 to report suspicious activity directly to MPD that doesn’t require an emergency response (example: reporting a fast-moving car without license plates or spotting something odd in an alley)
  • Call Minneapolis 311 at 311 or 612-673-3000 or email Minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov for non-emergency concerns.

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

  • Safety, Equity & Outreach will next meet this Saturday, May 1 from 10:00-11:00am at Armatage Park (see more above). Kids welcome and plan to wear a mask.
  • Community Engagement next meets 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.

Street Sweeping is Underway

See the schedule and get ready to avoid a ticket and tow at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

April 22, 2021 eNews

April 26 Meeting Agenda

The ANA postponed its April 20 meeting to better support our community, especially our BIPOC neighbors, after the verdict.  All are welcome to join next week’s rescheduled meeting. Register to attend at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Update from Armatage Park Director Jordan Nelson
  • Open Discussion on the Trial & Community Safety
  • 2021 Annual Meeting & Board Election
  • Leadership Roles & Transition Planning
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Armatage Play Area Update
    • Hennepin County Archives
    • City Funding Update
    • Mail
  • Committees – 3 Minute Updates:
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Community Engagement
    • Green Team

Register to Run for the ANA Board by May 9

Please consider running for the Armatage Neighborhood Association’s Board of Directors. Board members have a critical role in shaping our neighborhood nonprofit for years to come. These past weeks and months have reinforced how critical strong, local communities are.

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 and register to run by May 9 at https://armatage.org/2021boardelection/

Spring Tea & Blooms

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

Grab your mask and join us for afternoon tea at Armatage Park! Jinx Tea and Sparrow Café will take orders outside, soon-to-open neighborhood spot Café Cerés will share samples, and the ANA will give away take-home kids’ planting kits (supplies are limited). Pick up a free book from Jump! 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. In case of severe weather, cancellations will be posted on Facebook, Nextdoor, and Twitter.

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 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 who will each provide updates with time for questions, win a gift card to a local business, 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!

Reflect Before You Post

With emotions running high, it is important to take a moment to reflect on our words and how they may affect your neighbors. Before hitting “post” consider:

  • How would you feel if someone directed your statement at your child/parent/significant other/etc.?
  • Would you share this point-of-view at work/church/public meeting?
  • Would you say this comment in-person to the individual or group of people you are referring to?

The ANA will continue to compile safety resources through the August trials at https://armatage.org/trial/

Community Safety Workshops

Nonviolent Peaceforce is holding Community Safety Training Workshops on April 24th, May 8th, and May 22nd 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

911, 311 & New Minneapolis Tip Line

If you need assistance, there are a few different avenues to get help:

  • Call 911 for emergencies where someone’s safety is at risk that requires an immediate response from police, firefighters, or medics.
  • Call 612-673-5335 or text 847411 to report suspicious activity directly to MPD that doesn’t require an emergency response (example: reporting a fast-moving car without license plates or spotting something odd in an alley)
  • Call Minneapolis 311 at 311 or 612-673-3000 or email Minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov for non-emergency concerns.

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


Street Sweeping is Here

Street sweeping began this week. See the schedule and get ready to avoid a ticket and tow at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

Online Annual Meeting & Board Election

Board Election Results

Congratulations to new board member Eli Johnson and returning board members Joel Federer, Vicky Goberdhan, Ethan Komoroski, Janhel Leandre, and Judy Vecere on their election! Thank you to everyone who voted in the Board Election!

Vote in the Board Election

There are six (6) candidates running for the ANA Board of Directors this year. If elected, each candidate’s term will run from May 2021 – May 2023.  Learn more about the candidates through the ANA Voter Guide and submit your vote online.

Online voting is open from May 11 through May 18 at 7:00pm. Voting closes during the Armatage Annual Meeting. Election results will be announced at the Annual Meeting on May 18 and online the following day.

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.

Voter Guide: learn more about the candidates here. 

Click here to vote in the Board Election.

Armatage Annual Meetingarmatage map

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

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting & Board Election on Zoom!  Register to attend at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

Why attend the Annual Meeting?  GREAT question!  You’ll be able to…

  • Connect with State Rep (and Armatage resident!) Jamie Long, County Commissioner Marion Greene, and Council Member Linea Palmisano,
  • Hear how the leaders of Armatage Reparations & Equity Action (AREA) are helping neighbors renounce racial housing covenants on their Armatage homes,
  • Learn what the neighborhood is up to and all the great things planned for this year,
  • Enter to win a $25 gift card to an Armatage business (must be present to win).

Annual Meeting Agenda

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Connect with Elected Representatives (6:40pm)
    • Council Member Linea Palmisano
    • County Commissioner Marion Greene
    • State Representative Jamie Long
  • AREA (Armatage Reparations & Equity Action) (7:15pm)
  • Neighborhood Update (7:35pm)
  • Election Results (7:55pm)
  • Door Prize Drawing (8:00pm)

March 11, 2021 eNews


March 16, 2021 Agenda

It’s a busy one this month! All are welcome to join next week’s meeting. Register to attend at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Special Election for Open Board Seat (6:35pm)
  • Update from Council Member Linea Palmisano (6:40pm)
  • Armatage Reparations & Equity Action (AREA) – Eric Magnuson & Veronica Soria Miller (7:10pm)
  • 2021 Annual Meeting & Board Election Planning (7:30pm)
  • Spring Newsletter (7:50pm)
  • ANA Website Hosting & Domain Renewal (8:05pm)
  • Committees – 3 Minute Updates (8:10pm)
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Community Engagement
    • Green Team
    • Mini Grant

March Special Election

We’re holding a special election for one open board seat this Tuesday, March 16!  Learn more about the duties and register to run by tomorrow (March 12) at https://armatage.org/march-2021-special-election/

Election and voting info for Armatage residents (18 years and up) and designated neighborhood business/institutional representatives will be live at https://armatage.org from 9:00am-6:40pm on Tuesday, March 16. Please vote!  🙂

City Safety & Trial Info

The City of Minneapolis launched a new webpage to keep our community safe and informed during the trial of former officer Derek Chauvin. Find updates on current street closures, sign up for trial updates, report suspicious activity, and find mental health resources for support during this traumatic time at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/trial-support-safety/

If you need assistance:

  • Call 911 for emergencies where someone’s safety is at risk that requires an immediate response from police, firefighters, or medics.
  • Call 612-692-TIPS (8477) or text 847411 to report suspicious activity directly to MPD that doesn’t require an emergency response (example: reporting a fast-moving car without license plates or spotting something odd in an alley)
  • Call Minneapolis 311 at 311 or 612-673-3000 or email Minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov for non-emergency concerns.

Our colleagues at the Minneapolis Downtown Council put together a helpful guide with  dates, links, and FAQs on the upcoming trial. Check it out at https://www.mplsdowntown.com/trial/


Armatage Reparations & Equity Action (AREA)

Not long ago, racial covenants barred anyone who wasn’t white from owning hundreds of Armatage homes. Armatage Reparations & Equity Action (AREA) is a new group of local neighbors raising awareness of the covenants and their legacy. Although unenforceable today, the covenants still shape Southwest Minneapolis in 2021.

AREA publicly launched in January and has inspired at least 17 Armatage households to renounce their covenants. They invite you to join them. In the weeks and months ahead, they will launch a variety of initiatives intended to counter the covenants’ long-term effects. Learn more at AREA1946.com or at the March 16 ANA Meeting (sign up above).

The City of Minneapolis also recently launched the Just Deeds program to help all Minneapolis residents denounce racial housing covenants on their homes. Learn more and apply at https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/government/departments/attorney/just-deeds/

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

The ANA just launched two NEW Armatage Committees! Neighbors are encouraged to join and get involved. Currently, all 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


The Green Team meets TONIGHT, Thursday, March 11, from 7:00-8:15pm.

 

 

 

 

 

Community Engagement next meets Thursday, April 1 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom to plan a distanced community event in May. Stay tuned!


Safety, Equity & Outreach will next meet on Saturday, April 10 from 10:00-11:00am at Armatage Park. Kids welcome and plan to wear a mask. Please note the date change due to Spring Break, Passover and Easter.

Hennepin County Emergency Rent Assistance: Apply through March 19

Hennepin County is offering emergency rent assistance. Households with unpaid rent and low incomes may qualify. The deadline to apply is noon Friday, March 19. Click here to apply now.

While you can’t be evicted for not paying rent during Governor Walz’s executive order, rent is still due. When the order is lifted, people owing unpaid rent could be at risk for eviction. This is an initial short-term program for urgent needs. More help will be offered through a statewide COVID-19 Emergency Rent Assistance program opening later this month.


Hennepin County Food Waste Survey

We love food, which is why most of us hate seeing it go to waste. By taking steps to reducing food waste, you can ensure that the money you spend on your food and the energy, land and water it takes to grow it and get it to you doesn’t go to waste. Reducing food waste is also one of the most important actions we can take to address climate change.

Help Hennepin County understand more about food waste so we can work together to reduce it! Take the 5 minute survey to provide insights into how you interact with food – from shopping, storage, cooking, and finally disposal – and how the county can support you in preventing food waste: https://hennepinco.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9NXd82xg4vSun8p

Discount Compost Bin & Rain Barrel Sale

Get a jump-start on gardening by ordering a discount compost bin ($66) or rain barrel ($79) through the City of Minneapolis and the Recycling Association of Minnesota this spring. You can pick up your order on May 15 from 9:00am-12:00pm at the Minneapolis Recycling Operations Facility, 2710 Pacific Street, Minneapolis, MN. Learn more at https://recycleminnesota.org/work/compost-bins-rain-barrels/


Low Cost Blue Thumb Spring Workshops

Blue Thumb is offering low cost DIY workshops again this spring. Topics include Bee Lawns, Resilient Yards and Planting for Pollinators. Attendees can get practical ideas for strengthening their yard while protecting the environment.

Staff from Metro Blooms, Blue Thumb’s parent organization, lead the workshops, which start in March. Each workshop costs $15 unless otherwise noted. Scholarships are available on request. More information and registration details can be found at https://bluethumb.org/events/ or by leaving a message at 651-699-2426. Presentations will be recorded for registrants who are not able to attend.

March 4, 2021 eNews


Armatage Reparations & Equity Action (AREA)

Not long ago, racial covenants barred anyone who wasn’t white from owning hundreds of Armatage homes. Armatage Reparations & Equity Action (AREA) is a new group of local neighbors raising awareness of the covenants and their legacy. Although unenforceable today, the covenants still shape Southwest Minneapolis in 2021.

AREA publicly launched in January and has inspired at least 17 Armatage households to renounce their covenants. They invite you to join them. In the weeks and months ahead, they will launch a variety of initiatives intended to counter the covenants’ long-term effects. Learn more at AREA1946.com.

Thanks to AREA for this article and photo! Learn more about their work at the link above or the March 16 ANA Meeting.

March Special Election

We’re holding a special election for one open board seat on March 16!  Learn more about the duties and register to run by March 12 at https://armatage.org/march-2021-special-election/

Election and voting info for neighbors will be live at https://armatage.org from 9:00am-6:40pm on Tuesday, March 16.

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

The ANA is launching two NEW Armatage Committees this week! Neighbors are encouraged to join and get involved. Currently, all 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 meets TONIGHT, Thursday, March 4 from 5:30-6:30pm.


Safety, Equity & Outreach will meet on Saturday, March 6 from 10:00-11:00am.


The Green Team will meet on Thursday, March 11 from 7:00-8:15pm.

Hennepin County Food Waste Survey

We love food, which is why most of us hate seeing it go to waste. By taking steps to reducing food waste, you can ensure that the money you spend on your food and the energy, land and water it takes to grow it and get it to you doesn’t go to waste. Reducing food waste is also one of the most important actions we can take to address climate change.

Help Hennepin County understand more about food waste so we can work together to reduce it! Take the 5 minute survey to provide insights into how you interact with food – from shopping, storage, cooking, and finally disposal – and how the county can support you in preventing food waste: https://hennepinco.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9NXd82xg4vSun8p

Second Reading Circle

Join the Armatage Green Team for a monthly reading circle on All We Can Save – Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis. The next circle is TONIGHT (Thursday, March 4) at 7:00pm on Zoom to discuss Chapter 2: Advocate. Register at armatage.org/reading-circle/  

If buying a book is a financial hardship, we can help: email anacoordinator@armatage.org for a copy.

Upcoming Trial Information

Our colleagues at the Minneapolis Downtown Council put together a helpful guide with  dates, links, and FAQs on the upcoming trial. Check it out at https://www.mplsdowntown.com/trial/


Accessory Dwelling Unit Survey

Researchers in Iowa State University’s Community and Regional Planning program are conducting a study on Accessory Dwelling Units and would like to hear from you! Accessory Dwelling Units (sometimes just referred to as ADUs or “granny cottages”) are smaller dwelling units located on the same lot with single family homes and can come in a few different forms, such as a converted garage, a detached unit in the backyard, or even a converted basement space.

Click the link to take the survey: https://tinyurl.com/adusurvey Both renters and homeowners are welcome to take the survey, and survey responses are anonymous. The survey includes an option to be entered into a drawing to win a $100 VISA gift card. Contact information for the drawing will be separated from the rest of your responses. Questions? Please contact Andrea Wagner (aewagner@iastate.edu) or Dr. Kathryn Terzano (kterzano@iastate.edu).

March 2021 Special Election

Election Results

Congratulations to newly-elected board member, Janhel Leandre!

Election Process

The ANA will hold a special election for one open board seat on Tuesday, March 16. All residents (aged 18 and over) and designated neighborhood business or institution representatives are eligible to vote.

The voting form will be open on Tuesday, March 16 from 9:00am until 6:40pm (just after the ANA Monthly Meeting begins).

Learn about the candidate running for election at ANA Candidate Guide March 2021 Special Election.

Click here to vote in the Special Election. 

Results

Election results will be announced live on Zoom during the March 16 meeting and on the website the following day.

All are welcome to attend Monthly Meetings! Register to attend at https://bit.ly/ANAmtgs.  See this month’s agenda at https://armatage.org/march-16-2021-agenda/

If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our Coordinator, Lauren, at anacoordinator@armatage.org.

January 18, 2021 eNews

Celebrate Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Today!

State of MN Virtual Celebration Premieres at 10:30 am

Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan will host the 35th Annual State of Minnesota Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration!

Come together to honor Dr. King’s vision of a Beloved Community. Discuss how Dr. King fought for justice and love, worked to end racism and poverty, and what this means today.


Keynote

We’re excited Matthew A. Cherry is the keynote! He’s an award-winning director, writer, and producer. His animated short film and book, Hair Love, follows the relationship between Zuri, her natural hair, and her father. It’s a powerful story about family, love, and loving ourselves. Check out Hair Love before or after the celebration!

This virtual event is not to be missed and is geared towards students and youth. Learn more and access activity and discussion guides here.


Minneapolis Parks Annual Celebration

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is taking their annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration virtual! Broadcast of the  Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration will be today, January 18 from 6:30-7:30 pm.

Information and links as to how to view the event are available at www.minneapolisparks.org/MLK .

The celebration will be emceed by Chad Jackson, Manager, Corporate Partner Sales, with the Minnesota Twins. Devean George, Former NBA Player and Founder and Executive Director of Building Blocks Non-Profit, will be the keynote speaker.  Mary Merrill, MPRB Superintendent Emeritus and MLK Legacy Council member, will be a guest speaker. Performances that evening will feature local singer/songwriter/producer Lawrence Miles and local teacher, writer and award-winning spoken word and hip-hop artist, Desdamona.

Vote in the Special Election

We’re putting in one last plug for the Armatage Special Election for one open board seat. All residents (aged 18 and over) and designated neighborhood business or institution representatives are eligible to vote.

January 15, 2021 eNews

January 19, 2021 Meeting Agenda

All are welcome. Register to attend this month’s meeting at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Special Election for Open Seat (see below for more info)
  • New Business
  • Reimagining Mini Grants
  • Committee Updates: Green Team
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Holiday Light Tour Final Numbers
    • Armatage Play Area Public Hearing
    • NCR Survey on Neighborhood Election Day
    • Block Leader Outreach
  • ANA Visioning and Board/Committee Expectations Part 3

Armatage Special Election

The ANA is holding a special election for an open board seat. To learn more about the duties, time commitment and to register to run by Sunday, January 17 at 11:59pm, visit https://armatage.org/january-2021-special-election/

All residents (aged 18 and over) and designated neighborhood business or institution representatives are eligible to vote. We encourage you to register to attend the January 19 meeting to cast your vote live if possible. Register to attend at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

Online voting will also be open on Tuesday 1/19 from 9:00am-6:30pm through a link posted at armatage.org. Voting will close just after the meeting starts and election results will be announced live on Zoom and the following day on our website.

Free Events to Learn More AND Limit Your Use of Plastic

The Armatage Green Team is hosting a series of great events to help you learn about the problems with plastic, why recycling alone isn’t the answer, and practical strategies to rethink your purchasing and drastically limit your use of plastic. Open to all even if you don’t live in Armatage. Register at https://armatage.org/plastics/:

  • Through Jan 31: Get a link to screen the groundbreaking film, The Story of Plastic, and learn the real truth behind the global plastic pollution crisis from the comfort of your home.
  • Jan 21 at 8pm: Join the community conversation on The Story of Plastic on Zoom. We’ll talk through the film and with discussion questions on where we go next.
  • Jan 28 at 7:30pm: Attend our free virtual workshop on The Problem with Plastic & Practical Alternatives with the City of Minneapolis, Eureka Recycling & Tare Market!

Winter Reading Circle

We’re excited for our first-ever Reading Circle, hosted by the Armatage Green Team! This will be a slothful book club: each month, neighbors will read one section of All We Can Save – Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis and come together as a group to discuss. Sign up for the first meeting on Monday 2/1 at 7:00pm on Zoom at armatage.org/reading-circle/

Need a book? Times are tight and we can help: email anacoordinator@armatage.org and we will bring you a copy.

Armatage Play Area Public Hearing

Submit your comments for the public hearing on the plans for a new playground at Armatage Park. The hearing will take place on Wednesday, January 20 at 6:30pm at the MPRB Board of Commissioners meeting.

If you’d like to comment, please do so by registering to call in to the meeting or by emailing jringold@minneapolisparks.org before 12:00pm on January 20.  The hearing follows eight months of planning and a comment period on the concept plan; construction is planned for this year. Learn more and sign up for updates at https://bit.ly/armatagepark.

Armatage Business Directory

Do you work for a neighborhood business?  Or do you live in Armatage and have your own small business? We’d like to help promote you!

The Armatage Neighborhood Association (ANA) is updating our website’s Business Directory this winter. If you’d like to be included or update your listing, please send information about your business and your website to our Coordinator, Lauren, at anacoordinator@armatage.org.

Learning Options for Grades Pre-K-5

Beginning next month, Pre-K through 5th-grade students in Minneapolis Public Schools can learn in-person or through distance learning. Let MPS know which option is best for your family by completing this registration form by next Friday, January 22: bit.ly/MPSLearningForm

Trying to decide between in-person learning and distance learning? 

New Stay Safe MN Guidelines

Changes to the Stay Safe MN order start today! Visit https://mn.gov/covid19/stay-safe/overview/ to learn more about how Governor Tim Walz is adjusting the dial.

Please Clear Your Sidewalks

Sidewalks are a critical part of our transportation system that help people of all ages and abilities safely walk or roll to where they need to go. Here’s a refresher on the City’s rules: Minneapolis ordinance requires property owners of houses and duplexes to clear sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall and all other property owners must clear their sidewalks within four daytime hours.

City inspectors are out actively looking for sidewalks that aren’t cleared in addition to responding to complaints reported through 311. Failure to maintain your sidewalk could result in a warning letter and, if left uncleared, a bill from the City (average: $239). Call 311 to learn more about resources available to people who may need help clearing their sidewalks. Find more information about snow clearing on the City’s website.

Public Hearing Notice

The City Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, January 25, 2021 at 4:30 p.m. to Amend Title 20 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances related to Chapter 537 on Accessory Uses and Structures. The purpose of the amendment is to eliminate the owner-occupancy requirement for certain accessory dwelling units.  View the public hearing on Comcast Channel 14 or 799 or live on www.minneapolismn.gov/tv/citycounciltv. Submit comments or participate by phone in the meeting by using the following website: www.minneapolismn.gov/meetings/index.htm.

If you have questions about the project, please contact Andrew Frenz, Senior City Planner, 612-673-3790, andrew.frenz@minneapolismn.gov

January 7, 2021 eNews

Join the Armatage Neighborhood Association Board

Love our neighborhood and want to get more involved? The ANA is holding one more special election for an open board seat at the January 19 meeting at 6:30pm on Zoom. To learn more about the duties, time commitment and to register to run in the Special Election by Sunday, January 17 at 11:59pm, visit https://armatage.org/january-2021-special-election/

Look for a candidate guide at armatage.org on January 18. The vote will be conducted live at the Tuesday, January 19 meeting on Zoom at 6:30pm. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated representatives of a neighborhood business or institution are eligible to vote. Register here for this month’s meeting link.

Free Events to Learn More AND Limit Your Use of Plastic

The Armatage Green Team is hosting a series of great events to help you learn about the problems with plastic, why recycling alone isn’t the answer, and practical strategies to rethink your purchasing and drastically limit your use of plastic. Register at https://armatage.org/plastics/ for any or all of the series, which is open to all even if you don’t live in Armatage:

  • Jan 17-21: Register to screen The Story of Plastic whenever works for you!
  • Jan 21 at 8pm: Join the Armatage conversation on The Story of Plastic on Zoom.
  • Jan 28 at 7:30pm: Attend our free virtual workshop on The Problem with Plastic & Practical Alternatives with the City of Minneapolis & Tare Market!

Armatage Business Directory

Do you work for a neighborhood business?  Or do you live in Armatage and have your own small business? We’d like to help promote you!

The Armatage Neighborhood Association (ANA) is updating our website’s Business Directory this winter. If you’d like to be included or update your listing, please send information about your business and your website to our Coordinator, Lauren, at anacoordinator@armatage.org.

Share Your Thoughts on the Parks For All Plan

There are less than two weeks left to give feedback on a draft of Parks for All, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) 2021 Comprehensive Plan!  Parks for All will set MPRB priorities and policy direction for the next decade. Visit minneapolisparks.org/parksforalldraft to check out the draft plan and share your thoughts.

There are also two virtual Community Open Houses where you can discuss any aspect of the plan with MPRB staff. Use the links below to participate:

Please Shovel Your Sidewalks

Sidewalks are a critical part of our transportation system and clearing snow and ice helps people of all ages and abilities safely walk or roll to where they need to go. Here’s a refresher on the City’s rules: Minneapolis ordinance requires property owners of houses and duplexes to clear sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall and all other property owners must clear their sidewalks within four daytime hours.

City inspectors are out actively looking for sidewalks that aren’t shoveled in addition to responding to complaints reported through 311. Failure to shovel and maintain your sidewalk could result in a warning letter and, if left uncleared, a bill from the City to remove snow from your sidewalk. An average bill is approximately $239. Call 311 to learn more about resources available to people who may need help clearing their sidewalks. Find more information about snow clearing on the City’s website.

Minneapolis Ice Skating Rinks

The MPRB is continuing to open ice skating rinks around the city.  Please follow COVID-19 guidelines to keep at least 6 feet between yourself and other skaters and wear a face mask or face covering. Unfortunately the parks are not able to lend out skates this year.

Public Hearing Notice

The City Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, January 25, 2021 at 4:30 p.m. to Amend Title 20 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances related to Chapter 537 on Accessory Uses and Structures. The purpose of the amendment is to eliminate the owner-occupancy requirement for certain accessory dwelling units.  View the public hearing on Comcast Channel 14 or 799 or live on www.minneapolismn.gov/tv/citycounciltv. Submit comments or participate by phone in the meeting by using the following website: www.minneapolismn.gov/meetings/index.htm.

If you have questions about the project, please contact Andrew Frenz, Senior City Planner, 612-673-3790, andrew.frenz@minneapolismn.gov

Pedestrian Safety Survey

University of Minnesota researchers are seeking volunteers to participate in a short survey about pedestrian safety in Minneapolis and Saint Paul.  This survey is expected to take approximately 5 minutes to complete.  This is a voluntary study and there is no payment available for participation.  This research is being conducted by Dr. Nichole Morris from the HumanFIRST Laboratory at the University of Minnesota.  If you have any questions or concerns about this survey, email Nichole Morris at nlmorris@umn.edu.  Follow this link to the Survey: https://umn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eVzUc3nOTvvEJvL

January 19, 2021 Agenda

There will be a Special Election for one open board seat this month. Visit https://armatage.org/january-2021-special-election/ for more information on the election.

A candidate guide and voting form will be shared at https://armatage.org in advance of the meeting on Tuesday, January 19 at 6:30pm with election results shared live. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated representatives of a neighborhood business or institution are eligible to vote. Register here for this month’s meeting link.

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Special Election for Open Seat
  • New Business
  • Reimagining Mini Grants
  • Committee Updates: Green Team
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Holiday Light Tour Final Numbers
    • Armatage Play Area Public Hearing
    • NCR Survey on Neighborhood Election Day
    • Block Leader Outreach
  • ANA Visioning and Board/Committee Expectations Part 3